Braves

By rian

June 23, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

this is not good.

By jason

June 23, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

Well maybe if Chipper didn’t get hurt every other week and string everybody along about when he’s coming back instead of going on the DL and getting healthy, he wouldn’t get called out.

By ElbravoX-- EbX

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

We had a good run. 820 posts. We had a good run, 16 years of not pointing fingers. It’s gonna be an ugly divorce. I gotta run…

By jame

June 23, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Smoltz was right to call out Chipper, though it probably would have been better if Smoltz did it privately. Smoltz knows how important Chipper is to the lineup and it sounds like his comments were made out of pure frustration.

Hey Dave, I’ve noticed your a fan of Johnny Cash. Check out Ramblin Jack Elliott, specifically “South Coast”. Great record.

Oh, and any word on Lerew’s status?

By Braves Fan

June 23, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Its time for Chipper Jones & his buddy in centerfield to hit the road ! By hitting his solo homerun in today’s games proves that John Smoltz is correct !

If Chipper wants to ride the pine ship his butt to the American League where he can DH. If he refuses a trade, bench him the rest of the year.

This season is quickly falling apart. Lets start on 2008. Play Salty on first, Escobar on third, bench or trade Andruw & promote Brandon Jones.

As for the pitching staff, its needs an overhaul. Before Hudson starts making big bucks next season, start taking offers on him - NOW !

By Noba

June 23, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

This kind of thing should not be going on in Bobby Cox’s clubhouse, especially between two veterans.

By Beau Vighn

June 23, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

Chipper should keep his mouth shut and just play. Obviously Smoltz was right because the guy hit a HR today so he must not be too hurt. Suck it up Larry Wayne or come do my job 5 days a week and I will go play a kids game for however many millions.

By Brian

June 23, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

Smackdown!

By RichmondBrave

June 23, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

This all sucks. The Braves are totally falling on their faces, and my 2 favorite players are feuding. The year is lost. We will be lucky to finish third unless we make some big changes. AJ needs to be benched. We need to make a trade for a top line started and the guys we have need to start playing like they want to win. McCann and Francour are not pulling their share this year. I still have hope, but it is fading fast.

By tyyosh

June 23, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

You guys are egging it on a bit, too. Everyone on the team is very frustrated right now, and these guys are high intensity competitors. I suspect this will get patched up fairly quickly. These guys want to win way too badly to let it destroy the team.

By Whitney

June 23, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

Well this is an ugly day. It’s bad enough we’re losing at the park now we’ve got two supposed leaders of the team sniping at each other in the media. DOB, did anyone else on the team react to Smoltz’s comments? Just curious on which side players might be landing.

By jth

June 23, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

This team had better stick together and start doing every little thing to win games & I mean everything (bunting a man over, going opposite field, diving for ground balls, etc.) or this is going to be a long year. This team has not gelled yet & with Chipper & Smoltzie fussing, this team had better look itself in the mirror tonight and get this straightend out!

By matt

June 23, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this

It is about time somebody stepped up and told Chipper that baseball players have to play when feeling less than 100%. Look at Smoltz, everybody knows he is not right, but went out there against the most potent lineup in baseball and gave them 6 strong before falling apart. Smoltz is a warrior and Chipper is mentally weak when it comes to fighting off pain. Smoltz was the only one in the locker with enough seniority and power, to make his point. I don’t care if they are not buddies, maybe Chipper will try to not let his team down now. Look—it worked today. Frindship and being nice in the locker room is very much overated. The ace and the third baseman don’t need to drink beer together after the game!!

By Jon

June 23, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this

well well well… a little emotion from the boys from the south????? This can go one of two ways…either we catch fire and take off….or we start losing in the whole season goes to hell! Either way, at least its worth tuning in now!

By Alex

June 23, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this

The situation is that the Braves are a sinking ship at the moment. They look defeated from the start of every game, and if the starting pitcher gives up a couple of runs, the life is sucked out of them.

The negativity among the team is at an all time high.

Andruw Jones must sit! Play Diaz and Harris every day. Play Yunel at 3B and Salty at 1B, let the kids learn how to play in the majors, that is the future.

Chipper Jones is the past, who cares what he thinks. I’d rather have Yunel at third base anyday of the week. Let Chipper take his overpaid backside somewhere in the AL where he can DH.

Lost in the shuffle today, Kyle Davis pitched a decent game. That was at least one encouraging sign.

This team needs a trade, needs something drastic to change it up a bit. If they are unwilling to trade some of the young talent, then bring up more youth and go with that the rest of the season. Let them all get experience and retool for next year.

This year the Braves as it is right now, have no shot at the playoffs, so why not?

One more thing…Chipper Jones, just shut up and play! I suppose you want a medal for playing with a groin strain or whatever the hell it is. It’s your job. I’m sure many of the blogger work when they aren’t at 100% at their job, and your job is to play 3B for the Braves, wheather you are at 100% or not, just do your best and quit acting like you are a hero for playing with injuries! Guess what, there are plenty of major leaguers who do that every game, and I don’t see them going to the newspaper to settle internal clubhouse matters.

The Braves are done for the year! Mark my words. Now let the kids play and sit Chipper and Andruw on the bench where they belong.

By Old School

June 23, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

Situation? Two future HOFers who’ve won 14 flags together, who are led by the best mgr in history. And who are frustrated by team’s current struggles. They’ll be fine.

By brewdawg

June 23, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

This is not without precedence. After Chipper didn’t talk to the media following a postseason exit a couple of years back, Smoltz called him out on it. They eventually worked it out, and they will again. I think this is a case of two guys with a tremendous amount of respect for eachother as ballplayers… and that’s probably where it ends. Smoltz is very competitive, and probably was speaking in the heat of the moment, and probably wishes he’d chosen his words a bit more wisely. Either way, I bet you they reconcile this issue very shortly. BC won’t allow it to linger.

By Sugar Bear Blanks

June 23, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

With the Braves playing & getting beat up by good American League teams, it exposes how weak the National League is, and how far the Braves have to go before reaching the level they once had, and lost in recent years.

I don’t want to hear how they are just a few games behind the pitiful Mets. I look for the Phillies to be ahead of us soon, and watch out for the Marlins. The Braves have problems beating the pathetic Nationals.

I’m terrified Schuerholz will get desparate and trade off Escobar & Salty for some washed-up pitchers, in order to get back into the post-season and get our asses kicked again.

Unload Chipper & Andruw and use that money to retool the pitching staff.

By Elizabeth

June 23, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

Let’s just stop with the blame game, because it is pointless and that is not what the Braves are about.

The whole team is playing horribly right now, and to have our two leaders on the team act like 10 year olds is not helping.

If they want someone to be mad at, be mad at themselves or maybe actually get mad at the other team and try to win a freakin game!

But if this is what it takes to fire up the team and get them to start winning again then so be it.

By Matt

June 23, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

This is the entire team’s fault. If the Braves were winning and actually scoring runs, nothing would need to be said. Its understandable that everyone on the team is probably ticked off and even classy sportsmen like Smoltz can say controversial things.
Andruw is a wreck right now and as is a liability in my opinion. You can see the frustration in Francoeur, McCann, and even Edgar as well.

By NASCARfan

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

SMOLTZ IS RIGHT!!!

And you know why Chipper is acting like such a wussy with a p about it? Because Larry knows Smotlz is right.

I am sick and tired of this team. I am sick and tired of the clueless manager.

JOHN SMOLTZ IS THE ONLY MAN ON THIS TEAM WITH ANY HEART

YOU COULD LEARN SOMETHING ABOUT HEART, LARRY IF YOU LISTENED TO SMOLTZ!!!

By John

June 23, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

These 2 are good players but BIG babies; both way overpaid!!! Chipper does not have enough sense to get out of Hooters much less the rain, but man, can he get on the DL. Smoltz is a has been. It is over for both of them. Let’s move on.

By Homeboy Upstairs' Boss

June 23, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

Bound to happen at some point…

Fans are sick of this s* and now its spilled over into the locker room. But instead of getting in the faces of their underachieving (and in some cases, overpaid) teammates, theyre attacking each other. Ridiculous.

And so it begins….

By Allen

June 23, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

Chipper hasn’t been worth his pay for a long time. He has never brought the energy and enthusiasm he should provide as a team leader. His body is worn out. He can’t stay off the disabled list any more. Potential on the pines doesn’t help us. Ole!

By gdg73

June 23, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

It’s about time somebody called Mr. Untouchable out. The Braves will pay him more than $90 million over the life of his contract and he will see every penny of it. But for so long, he has gotten a free pass. He could do no wrong for so long. Thanks Smoltz for being a “true leader”.

By chipdip

June 23, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

This will be good for the team….someone needs to light a fire under their a—ses!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Chris

June 23, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

You have to give Chipper the benefit of the doubt. In the past he has always played through pain because he loves being out there. Did we forget the time when he twisted his ankle at third base that looked on camera as if he had broken it? He was back on the field after 3 days. Smolts is just upsed the got ROCKED!!!!!!!

By A-ville Ranger

June 23, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

Chipper Jones…In the words of Groucho Marks—I resemble those remarks.

By shawn

June 23, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

Stop whining Chipper and grow up. The difference between Smoltz making the hall of fame and you not making it comes down to John lays it out there everyday. I watched him throw sidearm then learn a knuckleball because his elbow was about to fall off. He didn’t worry about tomorrow but gave it all for his team because he was determined to win what ever it took. The day Chipper became “the leader” of this team was also the begining of first round exits. Heart, guts is what John is all about. So Chipper shut up and learn something from him.

By The Brooklyn Brawler

June 23, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

I’m a fan of Andruw just like everyone else but I am re-signed to the fact that he needs a change of scenery. Playng in the ATL your whole career could give you a false since of comfort. Any other player not named Langerhans or Jones going through a streak like this would be cut ala Craig Wilson.

Chipper is a bit of a drama queen and probably feels that he sosen’t get the respect he deserves. As injury prone as he seems to be, Bobby has to look at a position change or league change for Chipper. He’s blocking Younel at second and Andrus in the minors @ Mississppi.

Smoltzie is a leader, a bit of a loud mouth, but a leader nonetheless. He has take accountability. JS has to make a move for pitching and a consistent run producer even if you have to trade Andruw and move Willie to CF or, trade Thorman, Brandon Jones, or Lillibridge

By Amos Young

June 23, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

Well I don’t know who the hell Smoltz is calling anyone out. Every time I turn around he is missing a start for some fictious reason. I think mit’s old age.

By trisha

June 23, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

JOHN, YOU SAY SMOLTZ IS A HAS BEEN. ARE YOU KIDDING ME! HE IS OUR ONLY STARTER WHO CAN USSUALLY BE A STOPPER AND WIN A GAME FOR US. HAVE YOU LOOKED AT HIS RECORD COMPARED TO THE REST OF THE STARTERS. JOHN SMOLTZ IS EVERYTHING THAT IS GOOD ABOUT BASEBALL. A WARRIOR—LOYAL TO A 1 TEAM—-A LEADER—HIGHLY MOTIVATED—-COMPETIVE—AND HALL OF FAMER AS A BRAVE!!!

By Don!

June 23, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

I think this is the last we’ll hear of it. Both of those guys are better men and players than those exchanges showed.

They are the leaders of this team, and they know it. We have the talent in place to win this division, but right now we’re scuffing. They’re both frustrated and it showed.

However, I honestly think this was a one-time event — and they will handle the fallout themselves. As to this “lighting a fire” under the Braves’ tails — if we needed a squabble like this to do it, then we’re not as good a team as any of us might have thought.

Later,

Don!

By True Braves Fan

June 23, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

Last year, Smoltz accused JS of not doing his job, now Chipper. Who’s next on Smoltzie’s hit list…Bobby Cox. I am still a Smoltz fan, but the whole team is frustrated by the lack of production. That was a stupid thing McCann did getting thrown out of the game. Salty had already pinch hit. Who was going to catch if we happened have 4 conseclutive batters walked in the 9th and we tied the game…Pete Orr????? (And look around, Smoltz…IT AIN’T CHIPPER THAT IS NOT HITTING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

By jch

June 23, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

Kudos to Smoltz!

HE is the senior leader on this team. His comments provoked Chipper enough to get him in the line-up today and we see what happened.

Chipper should chalk this up to a lesson learned on how to be a clubhouse leader. Unfortunately, no one else was paying attention…

Smoltzie, here’s a list of guys who need the same treatment

A. Jones J. Franceour B. McCann T. Hudson

Those not mentioned are performing about as expected considering their age/experience.

It’s about time we gave the following guys a break

Thorman Davies James

These guys are YOUNG and still learning this level. Give ‘em time, from the flashes we’ve seen, they’ll be the framework of this team in the future.

By BosnianBaller

June 23, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

Fox sports says that braves are front runners for Mark Buehrle but a trade involing MB wont happen til early July by then we’ll be 10 games back.

Mccan reminds me of Jonny Estrada one good season and he’s done.

This is at best a minor league team.

Change the slogan from welcome to the bigs to welcome to the minors

By dadgum

June 23, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

It’s been a long time since I have blogged….love ya mean it….but what in the name of Henry Aaron is going on here. Gotta believe the Braves are in free fall mode. Not overstating the obvious. I trust. Anyway the Braves have just set a franchise record for futility. Ouch.

OK I stated the obvious…now the solution. Andruw is flat CHOKING!!!!!!!!!!! Blame Boras but give Andruw is due here too. Andruw simply can’t handle the free agent year pressure. He had his chance to settle this back prior to the December meetings but NOOOOOOOO….Scott BorASS had to tell Andruw to play the pat hand. It wasn’t all Boras’ fault…Andruw didn’t have to listen. How does that projected 18 mil look right now? NOT TOO GOOD!!!

WOW… I will go so far as to say there has never been a free agent free fall as rapid as Andruw. Frankly it is embarassing. In fact I am not so sure I want Andruw back as a bRave. Forget his defense…it doesn’t make up for the offensive futility. Not that he has ever been an offensive machine batting average wise anyway. He is a cocky sort that won’t listen to a lot of past wisdom which makes him look really stupid about now. Anyway we got him for a few more months them if he won’t accept a discounted contract we can let him go. Don’t we all as Braves Fans feel better that he is tanking given he could have signed an extension last fall. The more Andruw tanks the better I feel and he can take his super agent with him. Makes me so damn mad.

Oh and Chipper…gotta laugh at that dude. Busting on Smoltz. God bless America. How many times has DOB said not to count on Chipper for more than 125 ganes. I agreed wholehartedly. Reminds me of teh Zep label SWAN SONG. Chipper just doesn’t know he is in it. The dude is simply not to be counted on going forward to a great degree. Give him his due he has had a great career but he is done as to being a main cog in the Braves future. Exit the old dudes and bring in the new over the next two years and let’s hope the Braves can blend the changes to minimize the damage.

The only silver lining in all this is teh Mets suck just as bad. Right now we should just let teh Red Sox and Tigers play it out in an all American league World Series. They are simply the best two teams in baseball. Gotta love the Yanks spend so much to lose so many.

Rock on…..remembering Harry Chapin.

By SlimG

June 23, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

Poor John. Wife leaves him(we can only imagine why) and now he’s trying to p** larry off. What a dumbass!

By JDG123

June 23, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Bravo Smoltz! You said what I have been feeling for the last 2 years. Chipper Jones has been doging it, taking every chance he can to miss a game. Is it any wonder the Braves have only won one World Championship during his years with the team? He is sullen, selfish, and does not care a lick. I would not mind seeing the Braves release Larry Wayne and pay him whatever we owe. At least he will no longer be a cancer on this club.

By TheBurg

June 23, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

SMOLTZ IS RIGHT !

When has Chipper ever played hurt ?

He’s a prima donna. Send him to the AL, so he can DH. That’s the ONLY way he’ll ever play every day.

The difference is Smoltz and Chipper is that Smoltz is a competitor. If Chipper’s shoulder was hurting like Smoltz’s is, he’d be through for the year.

By Nolan Richardson

June 23, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is burning down the house on the way out the door just like I did!!!!

BEWARE GRUMPY OLD DISILLUSIONED GRAMPAS!!

Chris Carter did the same with the Vikings too, didn’t he?

By Dan in NC

June 23, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this

I know in the past that any squabbles among the team were handled and settled quickly but I get a distinct feeling this is going to get a little worse before it gets better. I know ESPN has to be happy there’s a little tension going into tomorrow night’s game.

Best thing this club needs to do is to have a players-only meeting and let everybody vent a little bit and then everybody rally back together to get back on track.

By Jt

June 23, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this

I say it may end up being a good situation. Let em discuss it. A little controversy may be just what this team needs. Nothing else has worked. I don’t think Chipper dogs it at all. I think he is just injury prone in his “old age”. I tell you this- Chipper means to this offense what Smoltz means to the pitching staff. He is MONEY when he is healthy.

By jch

June 23, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this

Amos Young

You must not turn around much…

If you’ll recall, Smoltz’s last start he altered his delivery so he could go. Most other pitchers, or third basemen I know, would have been just as happy sitting it out until they felt just right… sure doesn’t sound like a guy trying to dodge a start to me.

You lead by example and Smoltz is doing a hell of a job doing it. Speaking only for myself, I’m convinced if Smoltz says he can’t go than he really can’t go.

I can’t say that for some of the other Brave’s team leaders

By Larry

June 23, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this

Nice time for an AJC reader’s poll - Chipper vs. Smoltz - my guess 85% pro Smoltz, 15% Chipper.

By AROD

June 23, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this

Hit him Smoltzie!

By jamesbn

June 23, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

Thank you, Smoltzie, for saying what the rest of us have been thinking. There’s an American League team that will give us half their farm system for Larry…wouldn’t it be poetic justice for Larry to have to play in NY for the Yankees? Trade Andruw or send him to Richmond…but for God’s sake…get him out of the heart of the order.

By braves #1 fan

June 23, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

I love Smoltz, but he is way out of line. Chipper has been my favorite player for years. Nothing frustrates me more then to see him not play. But without Chipper the Braves are lost. The lineup is bad, but without Chipper it is the worst. Cut him some slack. Chipper is still great. Both are HOF’ers. But Smoltz is wrong, and should try saying it to his face. LIKE A MAN! Not to the media. He is becoming Curt Schilling with his mouth.

By Jeter

June 23, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this

Hit him Chipper!

By Jim

June 23, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this

I realize the 15 minute stretching routine that the Braves fitness coach puts the team thru before each spring-training workout is probably more symbolic than anything else. But every time Chipper gets “hurt” I always remember he and his “clique” always standing in a group to the side, laughing and joking, while the rest of the team participates.

It’s simply sends the wrong signal and makes you wonder how dedicated Chipper is to staying healthy.

Plus with all these injuries and the way they take forever to heal, you have to start suspecting maybe some steriod use has gone on in the past?

By Peace up...

June 23, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

I know there are alot of imports from other cities in Atlanta, but this is not Boston, New York, Chicago…etc. I am amazed at how many people are trashing the Braves because of this, especially Chipper. IMHO, Smoltz was wrong for saying this BS. Before Chip hit his homerun today, he was clearly in pain from the previous swing. Smoltz, normally one of the game’s most respected persons, let an idiotic statement slip during an interview, and he owes Chip a sincere apology. Besides, the offense is still one of the best in the NL and the back end of the rotation is the one that needs work. In this case back end means 2-5. Hudson is not a very good pitcher. Smoltz and … and pray for …

By WWF

June 23, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

Now being featured in a tag team match in Wrestlemania in a steel cage match, Smoltz & AROD versus Jeter & Chipper.

By Peace up...

June 23, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

I know there are alot of imports from other cities in Atlanta, but this is not Boston, New York, Chicago…etc. I am amazed at how many people are trashing the Braves because of this, especially Chipper. IMHO, Smoltz was wrong for saying this BS. Before Chip hit his homerun today, he was clearly in pain from the previous swing. Smoltz, normally one of the game’s most respected persons, let an idiotic statement slip during an interview, and he owes Chip a sincere apology. Besides, the offense is still one of the best in the NL and the back end of the rotation is the one that needs work. In this case back end means 2-5. Hudson is not a very good pitcher. Smoltz and … and pray for …

By Kenneth

June 23, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

Atlanta Braves 15 year run - Great Atlanta Falcons 1998 Season - Great Atlanta Hawks - Never mind Atlanta Thrashers - Never mind Chipper vs Smoltz - Priceless Braves World Champs - NEVER MIND All good things come to an end. Thanks for the memories!!! Go HAWKS

By Double Deuce

June 23, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

After all this time waiting for someone to stand up and hold people accountable, Smoltz bags on Chipper in the press. Don’t care who’s side you’re on here, this is the wrong way to handle this and the last thing you need in that clubhouse. Call the guy on the phone, go over to his house, talk in the outfield before the game, just do it somewhere other than in the public eye. Now you will end up with a divided clubhouse, guys not sure which side of the fence to get on. This is a bad deal here folks. If Bobby didn’t pull these guys in his office before they left the park he’s leaving the door open for a real mess. In fact, he should have done it before the game today just to clear the air. This is what happens when a team, a business, a family is without a leader who steps up before it comes to this. Let’s hope the bloggers above are right and this blows over. This is the last thing we need right now.

By tyyosh

June 23, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

There is this story on the Braves site that has lots of quotes and updated info.

By Dan

June 23, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

Boy, Andrew (aka, Mr .198) must be loving this…

By Chop Chop

June 23, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

SportsCenter is quite adept at screwing up a story. They mentioned some of what Smoltz said last night and what Chipper said before the game today. However, they completely whiffed on Chipper’s postgame comments today. How can you tease the viewing audience with the sniping before today’s game and not give Chipper’s quotes after the game, which were much more spicy and interesting?

Geez, don’t these guys understand what sells?

By jch

June 23, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

braves #1 fan

YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY CORRECT about Chipper’s importance to the Brave’s.

Which is EXACTLY why what Smoltz did and said was needed.

If Smoltz hadn’t said anything do you think Chipper would’ve played tonight?? I don’t.

Chipper is one of the best we’ll ever see - a certain and deserved HOF’er.

But, he has spent an aweful lot of time on the bench or DL for odd reasons - e.g. bruised thumbs…etc.

At some point, the great ones have to learn to lead. Hopefully he’ll learn from another great one and certain HOF’er, Smoltz, how to lead be a clubhouse leader.

Chipper is only 35 but has been in the league a lot longer than most his age and the past couple of years he’s started to show it. No harm there; we have Escobar on the bench to back him up and take over when Chipper’s done.

But, as his on field presence diminishes, Chipper needs to understand he can still have be a positive force for the team by being a clubhouse leader.

Smoltz is simply passing the torch…

Hopefully Chipper will pick it up.

By Robyn

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

Changing the subject. We are from Augusta and have tickets for Sundays game our tickets have 1:05 and ESPN is saying 8:00, does anyone have an idea. Thanks

By Dumbasdirt

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

Remember when Chipper cheated on his wife with the hooters trash? He then had the nerve to say Rocker should keep his mouth shut! I guess it’s ok to cheat on your wife, but you’re not allowed to have thoughts? Chipper needs to vanish into the sunset. Never liked the prick.

By Biff Pocoroba

June 23, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

The 25 million that is going to the Jones Boyz could go a long way to make this team better. Put both of the Areses on the road and get some young players that will play with a strained gonad.

By Yars

June 23, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

I am disappointed in those of you who are already calling it a season. This isn’t 2006. The Mets are not going to run away with the NL East. We are only 3.5 games back. Man, it could be a whole lot worse. Maybe things will get back to normal Monday when we play NL teams again. I don’t like saying this, but Andruw is an embarrassment. Hitting .198 is pathetic. He really needs to sit for a few games. Once his average hits .188, then what? I think it would be funny if KJ finished with more HR’s this season than Andruw. Francoeur’s average is sinking fast too. I can’t help but wonder if Schuerholz is going to address any of the problems on this team. Buehrle is way over-rated, but we really do need a quality pitcher behind Smoltz & Hudson. Are there any other decent starting pitchers that will be trade bait soon? I would hate to lose Salty, Yunel, and whoever else for some overhyped pitcher who won’t even be on our team in ‘08.

By Terance

June 23, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this

Someone should be calling Chipper out. I can’t believe how he has milked the wrists thing and then the groin thing on Friday. Chipper must be a cream puff if he can’t suck it up and play with a little discomfort.

The feud between Carlos Zambrano and Barrett seemed to spark some winning for the Cubbies. Perhaps a little rift between Smoltz and Chipper would do the same for the Braves. Hopefully neither will get traded though. They are still vital pieces to this team.

By brent a.

June 23, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

I find this all very ironic …

By Coach ( EVERYBODY TO THE LIFEBOATS)

June 23, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

I’m not taking sides other than to say these two veterans should work this out behind closed doors and not air their dirty laundry in public. they both owe the fans and their teammates an apology.

By Larry P

June 23, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this

PUNCH HIS LIGHTS OUT, CHIPPER!!!

By Chop Chop

June 23, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this

And tyyosh, it’s nice to see Mark Bowman taking Smoltz at his word regarding his comments from Friday night. If Smoltz wasn’t referring to Chipper and his inability/reluctance/whatever (eye of the beholder/blogger, I suppose) to play with nagging injuries when he made this comment (“I’m on the mound busting it just as hard as I can. We all could wish we were feeling better. But that’s just the way it is.”), I don’t know who the hell else he was talking about. I’m sure Chipper and Smoltz will talk about it and it will just be water under the bridge.

Well, unless the struggles continue.

By DirtyDawg

June 23, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

Robyn…they announced that ESPN had picked up the game and, of course, it’ll be at 8 PM…at least it’s not a school night. Work? That’s another problem.

Hey Bobby. Better get your boys in your office and knock some heads together. If you don’t get them straightened out now, you lost this team and this season…and John and Chipper - shut the ‘ef’ up!

By Zep

June 23, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

Mark Buehrele? Another Tim Hudson ! Just say no !

Take offers on Tim Hudson - NOW ! The Yanks, Bosox, Rangers & Angels will line up with offers.

Chipper & Andruw: Take offers on these overpaid 10 & 5 primadonnas. If they refuse trades, bench them for remainder of season, Then we’ll see what they’ll be worth next season. Use the money currently wasted on Hudson & the Jones’ boys to rebuild our pitching staff.

Leave Escobar on third, Salty on first, put Willie in center, promote Brandon Jones to play left. Lets get a headstart on 2008 !

By jch

June 23, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

Dumbasdirt

You do realize you’re suggesting the guy who single-handedly provided the only run the Braves have scored in 4 games should “…vanish into the sunset.”

The Braves need Chipper. When he’s in there there’s none better - he proves that time and again. He just needs to grow up and accept the role he needs to play now - part-time player (playing when he can) and clubhouse leader.

By brent a.

June 23, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

for those who think the season is over (You are wrong)

let’s look at it this way …

last year, we sucked in June, and fell double-digits out

This year, we have sucked in June, but not as badly as last year, and the competition has as well

Our bats have every chance to heat up, and our 8th and 9th inning situation is much better than it was this time last year

We suck. But, it is a long season, and we are still in a very close race

By Paul Hamilton

June 23, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this

I must be the only one that missed the intended poke at Chipper. I read JSmoltz quote and I don’t understand what the problem is? I think Chipper needs to get a grip, I mean he has been on the DL the last 4 years straight for extended periods.

Oh and for all the people on here that think the season is over and we should start looking to 2008, why don’t you stop wasting blog space and come back next year! Please. I get tired of hearing the same dribble from a bunch of tired old wind bags.

By Bob

June 23, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this

Hey, Dumbasdirt,

If you call what Rocker was saying “thoughts” then your name is truly representative.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 23, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this

Team meetings and sparring matches don’t always help.

This team has way to much talent to score 1 run in 36 innings!

By Ticked Fan

June 23, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

The Braves are in a Meltdown. It is time for the Jones boys to look for greener pastures if they exist for whiffle ball players. Chipper is past his prime and Andrew has so much money it doesn’t matter to him. Andrew swings his bat like a blind aged lady. Hey guys, Delta is Ready When You Are.

By beki

June 23, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this

The ninth inning was heavenly for a moment: McCann got mad at a low,inside pitch and Cox rants —-for the first time in a long time;and, there I was,getting hot and bothered in a cool bedroom with the two of them. Smoltzie’s remarks may have been aimed at Chipper but AJ is the one who should receive them. He needs to be seated, again, or batting eighth. It’s past time for a team meeting and stop acting like this is a ” nine to five ” job.

By Cornholio

June 23, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this

This not a good Braves team, certainly not post-season potential.

Short on starting pitching. The hitting is weak & inconsistent. Bobby Cox s/b fired for hitting Andruw Jones in cleanup, and squandering all those runners this season.

Andruw Jones is hitting .221 since July 1, 2006. That is nearly ONE YEAR ! His eyes or his urine needs to be checked. LET HIM GO !

By heywatzup

June 23, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

Times can be stressfull, especially if you are in the “professionaly spotlight” of the media. Smoltz and Chipper are not different than anyone else, unfortunatley their “tiff” is highlighted. We still love the braves no matter what… and they just need to express what they fill, move one, and play better games as a team! go Braves!

By Christian

June 23, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

Pshh, I’d say we had a problem when all of a sudden the braves organization became based on free swinging hacks at the plate. Pendelton may have been a great player but he’s an awful batting coach, and even if that may not be, his players certainly reflect poorly on him.

By jch

June 23, 2007 11:36 PM | Link to this

Yars

You started off strong but the rest of your post just re-enforces those of the “this season is over” crowd - myself included.

Even if the Braves are handed the East title - which is the only way they will win it, and I’m not ruling it out - then what? They’ll get shellacked in the penant.

And if the do happen to be the team that “on any given day can beat any other team” and make it to the World Series they’d be a total embarrassment.

Can you imagine a Braves vs. Red Sox/Yankees/Indians/Tigers series???

UGLY

By kevin

June 23, 2007 11:36 PM | Link to this

I’m sure the dolts at ESPN are making a big deal about this and taking this story to new lows.

Braves fans: support the team, not the individual(s) and blow this situation out of proportion…it’s bad but let’s not make it worse.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 23, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

Face it… this is not ‘91 or ‘95. Those guys played up to their standard. Too many holes to fill for this to be a contender. Maybe by ‘09 or ‘10, we’ll be back in championship form

By Leroy Rogers

June 23, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

When one’s time is not more important than watching Braves baseball, they have struck out in my book!

Oh, how I love the Yankees! They can’t win but don’t give up. If you have missed seeing the House that Ruth built, plan to visit there before the end of next year when she will implode!

Baseball is no longer the game Old Diz Dean et al played as just a game.

If there is any truth to the talk re: the pitcher and injury prone Jones, where is the great Bobby Cox? And what an example for young little league players…tieing a sic record for ejections! Yuk…bring on golf, even without Tiger!

By NASCARfan

June 23, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

Y’all have to remember, Chipper Jones is a dumb redneck from Florida.

He was drafted out of high school, and who wants to bet he probably doesn’t have but a 9th grade level education because he played sports and never really had to be serious about school because he was a jock. Has anyone heard him speak? He’s about as unintelligent sounding as anyone I’ve ever heard. Yeah, he can hit a baseball and he has lots of money, so good for him. But that’s one dumb SOB.

If he and Smoltz get into a war of words, that unintelligent jack@$$ is going to get his clocked cleaned.

By jch

June 23, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

brent a.

…so you’re suggesting we hope everyone else sucks worse than us???

Now there’s a penant I’d be proud to hang!!

By Vonshawn

June 23, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this

It’s about time!!

By Fastfoodfreak

June 23, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

I hate to say it, but I’d agree with ticked fan. I like Chipper, and he’s done a lot for the team this year when others have failed… WHEN HE’S IN THE LINEUP!! Whether you have a player who makes every game hitting .199, or someone who is there only half the time but hits really well, they’re just as reliable. Build for the future.

By rotomeister

June 23, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

Exactly what was Chipper’s role in the pounding Smoltz took Friday night? Smoltz should stick to an analysis of his own injuries before he starts pointing fingers. Didn’t he just miss a start because his shoulder was sore? Or was it? Let’s recall our last playoff appearance. His shoulder was so sore he wasn’t going to be able to mound if it went to another game. I think he’s a great pitcher but he shouldn’t be complaining about other players missing games or starts due to injury when he has a similar history himself. There’s just no point to getting one’s frustration out in that manner.

By jch

June 23, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

Zep

Amen brother! - on the 2008 comment.

This year is over, let’s take advantage of the opportunity to build for the next several years instead of sinking all our eggs into someone to get us to the playoffs - only to lose in the first round.

By mike

June 23, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

One of these guys has earned his way into the Hall of Fame. One of these guys has always been a step away from greatness……..and Hooters.

By Johnny Rocker

June 23, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

Has anyone ever noticed how hot Katy Temple is?

By vwburt

June 23, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

escobar is the best looking rookie i have seen come to atlanta. he sits on the bench. our two left fielders, both hitting over 375. one has to sit while our centerfielder after today game is hitting about 190. 6 for his last 65.the braves needs a good housecleaning starting with john s. he has traded the braves out of business. i remember when the braves had a hard time drawing 12,000 to fifteen thousand a game. with this team we are heading back there.

By steve

June 23, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this

if anyone didn’t think this team’s season was over… they better believe it now. The top two players feuding in the media! If it was behind closed doors that is fine… but in the media. Unless there are some serious trades in the next few weeks that bring a quality starter and a big bat to this team… its over.

By Robyn

June 23, 2007 11:46 PM | Link to this

Thanks Dirty Dawg for responding…

We had not heard, but unfortunately we have to work. It will be much cooler.

Robyn

By Neutral Observer

June 23, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

I am a neutral observer and I refuse to picks sides in this matter but … . .

Never impressed with Smoltz. Loudmouthed John Wayne wannabe. Same winning percentage as Michael Vick. Smoltz was at best a glorified #3 starter. Cut bait. Good riddance. Great closer. Never a legitimate #1 starter. Never. Very deceiving great postseason.

By Chris

June 23, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

This is freaking sad. These guys don’t know how to handle losing. You would think they would have learned last year.

If the braves don’t get their junk together then we as fans need to stop paying for this circus. The Cubs will always suck because their fans are ok with it. They keep paying money and more money to see the same crap. We are heading down that same road. This team is stuck thinking it’s 1997. That was a decade ago. Let’s stop supporting this bogus Lou Pinella style crap.

And finally, Bobby needs to get this crap with Smoltz and Chipper under control. That or get rid of both of them and get some players that are living in the game of 2007. If this were any other players they would be gone tomorrow. It’s time to stop treating people differently because of their name. And I still say it’s better to pay Andruw 13 million NOT to play.

By Braves pike

June 23, 2007 11:48 PM | Link to this

Larry aka Chipper needs to go — Might be time for learn the phrase - “want to supersize those fries” - How many years has he been playing and he gets hurt sliding? Give us a break. One of the big problems is the amount of money he and others make playing this game. And of course it is guaranteed so why should they really care. Time for John S. to stop the bleeding, get rid of the dead wood on the team and build mfor the future. You can’t win with guys who have no-trade contracts and are not producing. Maybe they should be paid annually and their raises are based on their performance. Why that is what happens to us in the working world - we aren’t even gauaranteed that we get a raise

By Fastfoodfreak

June 23, 2007 11:49 PM | Link to this

If Andruw isn’t responding to TP, I’m not so sure Smoltz calling him out would do any better.

By kevin

June 23, 2007 11:49 PM | Link to this

All comments about Jonesy and Smoltzy aside…

WHY AREN’T THERE ANY MORE GAMES ON TBS!?!?!?! WHY DO WE HAVE TO DEAL WITH IDIOT ANNOUNCERS ON FOX AND ESPN???

I’d rather have someone shove sandpaper into my ear than to listen to Joe Morgan stutter his way through a game!

By Nichole

June 23, 2007 11:50 PM | Link to this

I think that Both Chipper and John need to keep this out of the media. It looks bad for team members to be fighting like this! However if they want to get on anyone they should be riding Andruws butt about hitting!!!! He sucks right now and he was one of my Favs! And he has a poor attitude about it.

By Neutral Observer

June 23, 2007 11:50 PM | Link to this

Game 7 of the 1991 World Series, Braves lose 1-0. Old Man Morris famously goes ten to seal the deal. Youngster Smoltz can only go seven or so, thus leaving the fate of the Braves in the hands of the immortal Alejandro Pena.

By brent a.

June 23, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

jch,

I said nothing of the sort

the point I made was that last season, we were out of it by June.

This year, we are clearly not out of it (3 1/2 back), and have still played terribly.

Sorry that you can’t see such simple things.

By Neutral Observer

June 23, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

Game 2 of 1992 Series, Smoltz has a 4-2 lead heading into the eighth. He wilts and leaves the fate of the Braves in the hands of Jeff Reardon and, well, y’all know the rest of that story. Smoltz again comes up short by not sealing the deal.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 23, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this

No one can accuse the fans of not showing up. Friday’s crowd was over 40K, and from what I understand, just about all Braves fans (don’t get TSouth or FSsouth where I live)

By Neutral Observer

June 23, 2007 11:54 PM | Link to this

In Game 4 of the 1993 NLCS, Smoltz is bested by the immortal Danny Jackson. The Braves lose 2-1. The Braves had a 2-1 series lead at that point. Coming up short by Smoltz allows the Phillies to even the Series. By failing to seal the deal against the Phils, Smoltz breathes new life into the Phils chances. After beating Smoltz, the Phillies never lose another game in the 1993 NLCS.

By Objective Lou

June 23, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

Old School, They have won ONE!!!!!!! World Series in 14 years which is ONE!!!!Less Than Hapless Florida Marlins. Take those silly Eastern Division BANNERS—Yes, Banners—and make a tourniquet for next Jones’ injury.

Those banners mean as much as the Buffalo Bills four Super Bowl Appearances.

By Tomahawkin' Again

June 23, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this

I was in New Symrna Beach the last 2 days, didn’t watch a single pitch of the Braves’ games and I return to see that all hell has broken loose. Put me down in the Smoltz is right column, whether he directed it @ Chipper or if it was just a veiled reference. Hopefully this media created “feud” will take the spotlight off the Andruw, McCann, Jeff F, et al struggles this past month and allow them to get back to the good baseball we saw the 1st 6 weeks of the season. Even with all this crap, we’re only 3.5 gms out of 1st. God, I HATE interleague play!!

By Neutral Observer

June 23, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

Game 3 of the 1995 Series, Smoltz is smacked all around the yard, getting himself chased in the third inning. The Braves go on to win the World Series despite Smoltz.

SMOLTZ HAS NEVER WON A WORLD SERIES FOR THE BRAVES. SMOLTZ WAS USELESS IN THE 1995 WORLD SERIES

ENOUGH WITH THE FALSE BRAVADO FROM THE PSEUDO JOHN WAYNE

By nolesfaninbamacountry

June 23, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

Leave it to Smoltz to say what needed to be said….I remember when JD Drew was here & Chipper called him out on the carpet about playing hurt……

By Jay

June 23, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

I laugh when I see someone named “NASCARfan” calling someone else dumb. The irony is overwhelming. And then they say “clocked cleaned”.

Whats a clocked, and how can someone get it cleaned?

By John

June 24, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this

With Chipper all that comes to mind is BOB HORNER JR!!!!!!!!!! nuff said!

By Neutral Observer

June 24, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this

Game 5 of the 1996 Series, Pettite, like Jack Morris five years earlier, betters Smoltz 1-0 to help the Yankees take a 3-2 lead in the Series. Again, Smoltz comes up short in a big spot and the Braves suffer because of it. Everyone blames everything on Neagle and Wohlers but the series was merely tied at that point. Smoltz just came up short as usual in that pivotal Game 5 swing game. Smoltz blames Game 4 and Leyritz. A true fan blames his failure to be as good as Pettite in Game 5.

By chuck

June 24, 2007 12:02 AM | Link to this

Anybody that thinks that Chipper doesn’t want to play is just plain wrong. He is a goal oriented player who wants to put up numbers to have a HOF career. He knows that to do so he has to play 150 or so games a year. He has been snakebitten with some very strange injuries the past several years. It’s pretty hard to swing effectively when you injure both thumbs the way he did in that fall against the Pirates. It’s also hard to run the bases or field your position AT THE STANDARDS that are required in the Major Leagues when you have a groin pull. These are two very proud athletes who are sick of loosing like they are. Personally, I did not take John’s comments as a shot at Chipper. As for idiots who say things like they should come work their FIVE day a week job and I’ll play a kids game for millions, I have this to say to you. You say those things out of jealousy and envy. You are not in that position because you didn’t have the talent and are probably an underachiever in your own career. Puts in 40hrs, ( which will never put you in a high economic bracket) and then goes home and pops a beer and complains about ballplayers.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 12:02 AM | Link to this

Still plan to watch Sunday night…

Paul H.

What would you do to ensure we made the playoffs this year, without sacrificing the future? Also, even if we make the playoffs, what guarantee would we have of even sniffing the NLCS? Building for the future is not quitting. Ever hear the term “live to fight another day?”

Sincerely,

worn out old windbag.

By Neutral Observer

June 24, 2007 12:03 AM | Link to this

In Game 3 of the 1997 NLCS, with the series tied 1-1, Smoltz gets smacked around, giving the Marlins a 2-1 series advantage.

By NASCARfan

June 24, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

Neutral Observer, you’re an idiot.

You forgot to mention that John Smoltz is the WINNINGEST PITCHER IN THE POSTSEASON…

AS IN MOST WINS!!! Yes, I know Andy Pettit has a better winning percentage.

You’re an idiot. I bet you’re a Hooter waitress that used to give Larry the special treatment.

The guy is a dumb hick. He’s whined for years about his “sacrifices,” when the man doesn’t know the definition of the word (one, because he’s too dumb, two, because the rich kid hasn’t had to sacrifice anything in his life).

I’d love nothing more than to see him agree to a trade to the Yankees.

Larry Jones HAS NO HEART. He’s the Tin Man.

Which is good, because Bobby Cox is the Scarecrow… HE HAS NO BRAIN!!!

By stopcomplaining

June 24, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

Let’s think about this rationally: Aren’t there other players besides Chipper who has been hurt and on the DL?

So why are the comments supposedly directed at Chipper and Chipper alone?

Bottom Line: Chipper needs to stop being so sensitive and the media needs to stop focusing on this matter as if it’s completely directed at Chipper.

By Bob

June 24, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this

Neutral Observer,

I believed you are a neutered observer. A 2-1 loss and you blame the pitcher. Get a life dude and find someone else to pick on. Anyone can pick John’s couple of losses and point them out. Pretty easy to do when there have been so few. Sheeeesh

By Neutral Observer

June 24, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this

In Game 1 of the 1998 NLCS, Smoltz comes up small, leaving the game trailing 2-1. He is saved from a loss by the overrated Trevor Hoffman (who Smoltz is 10 times better than as a closer) blowing the save. The game however was tied going into the eighth. Smoltz has to give up a run of course giving the Pods a late lead before Hoffman blows it. If Smoltz was able to close the deal, the Braves never would have had the fate of the team in the hands of the immortal Lightenberg in a big spot.

By jch

June 24, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this

brent a.

The following is pretty simple to me

“We suck. But, it is a long season, and we are still in a very close race”

a direct quote from you’re earlier post - copied and pasted.

If “we suck” and you still think we can win, than how else can we do so unless everone else sucks worse???

By Shaun

June 24, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

Neutral Observer,

Are you aware that 1 run is not a lot? How can you blame Smoltz for that loss? One run is not going to win all that many games, even post-season games in 1993.

By NASCARfan

June 24, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

I love idiots who assume NASCAR fans are dumb.

They couldn’t possibly be college graduates.

No, Jay, only guys like Larry Jones can get away with striking it rich with a 9th grade education.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

Jay,

hilarious 1159!!

Neutral Observor,

can you honestly argue that if it hadn’t bee for Smoltz, those postseason opportunities might not have ever come up?

By Neutral Observer

June 24, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

In Game 5 of the 1998 NLCS, Smoltz is smacked around. He leaves the game in the seventh with the Braves trailing 4-2. The Braves have to rally in the game to win despite Smoltz coming up short again. Maddux has to come in and save Smoltz and the team from Lightenberg (which Smoltz failed to do just like he failed in Game 1) in the ninth to preserve the victory.

By Ripper

June 24, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

I think we need to just stop showing up to at the games and maybe then they will get the hint ,and put a better team on the field .

By Neutral Observer

June 24, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

Game 4 of the 1999 Series, entrusted with the responsibility of preventing a sweep by the Yankees, Smoltz again comes up short to a true ace like Roger Clemens. As a result, the dynasty that never was is swept by the dynasty that has always been.

By nolesfaninbamacountry

June 24, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

Leave it to Smoltzie to publicly say what needs to be said. I remember 3 years ago when JD Drew was here & Chipper publicly called JD out about him playing hurt…..Since then Chipper’s been on the DL 8 times…..As far as Andrew goes, let’s try to trade him to the White Sox for Burhle….both are free agents to be. I’d take my chances with Buerhle right now instead on Andrew. We could then put Diaz in left,Willie in center. That would definately leave a power void (not that it’s happening now anyway).

By brent a.

June 24, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

I think it’s comical that the Braves get one little tete-a-tete, and more folks pile on the “blow up the team” bandwagon.

Smoltz is a grumpy old man who wants to win another ring before he dies, so for 2 straight years he’s made public comments critical of key people in the organization.

This junk gets reported in New York and Chicago all the time. In Atlanta, it’s groundbreaking news.

By Steve from OH

June 24, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

Losing a game 2-1 isn’t exactly choking, Neutral Observer…

By Matt the Brave

June 24, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

Is this crotchety old baseball player week or what?! I’m just hoping that Chipper doesn’t try to be the ‘bigger man’ and tear the hell out of his groin muscle. If he tears a muscle or a ligament, you might as well kiss our chances goodbye for this year (if you haven’t happened already). It’s not in the nature of the Braves to go screaming to the media about other players, so I’m hoping that this is a one-time thing. Yeah, egos got bruised and there might be a little back-biting later this season, but let’s hope that neither one lets this fester. The last thing that we need is our pitching leader to be fighting with the leader of our offense (since Andruw’s under the Mendoza line and never has been very vocal in the dugout).

DOB, what I really want to know is what pitching prospects do we have either for next year or the year after. Also, what is the possibility now that Davies has a very bad losing record that the Braves might ship him out, or are they hoping that he’s one year away from a break-out year? One last one if you can…how is Mike Gonzalez’s surgery/recovery coming?

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 12:14 AM | Link to this

Neutral Observor,

Most of your accounts of Smoltz’s postseason performances have him losing games 2-1, 1-0, etc. So, my question is, is Smoltz not allowed run support in the postseason? Or does he have to pitch shutout ball every postseason game?

By NASCARfan

June 24, 2007 12:14 AM | Link to this

Hey y’all, I just checked:

Neutral Observer is a name registered to someone named Larry Wayne Jones, Sr. I don’t know if that means anything, but there you go.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 12:18 AM | Link to this

Ripper,

Didn’t work from ‘84-‘90.

Sorry, Neutral, my 1208 should have said “been” instead of “bee”

By Neutral Observer

June 24, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

Are you aware that 1 run is not a lot? How can you blame Smoltz for that loss? One run is not going to win all that many games, even post-season games in 1993.

Shaun, he lost two 1-0 games. He just was not good enough. If there was ever a symbol of the Braves being so close but yet so far, it is Smoltz. Good, not great. Great, but not the greatest. Never as good as the best of the best. When evenly matched, they came up small. None more so than Smoltz.

Smoltz wants to fling it around, well then, I am going to fling it around back at him.

By JDG123

June 24, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

No way Chipper Jones is a HOF player right now. If Dale Murphy can’t make it, no way the sour puss Chipper deserves it. Do any of you all remember Chipper talking about how exciting it would have been if Sammy Sosa hit a game winning HR against us and Smoltz in the playoffs. Smoltz got on him for that. Chipper is a spoiled brat who sits and shows no emotion when others do well. I want him gone yesterday.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

NASCAR,

LMAO!!!

Normally, I’d suggest aluminum bats, but that still leaves the problem of making contact unresolved.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 12:25 AM | Link to this

Noles fan…

the ChiSox have enough problems scoring runs… why would they want Druw?

By Neutral Observer

June 24, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

He’s the Mike Vick of baseball - talented but ultimately a 58% winning percentage.

We can win zero World Series with him, we can win zero World Series without him.

Smoltz does not take the award for the most statistically deceptive and fraudalent big game pitcher. That award goes to Mariano Rivera. Rivera gave up the Alomar home run in 1997, blew Game 7 of the 2001 World Series, and blew the 2004 ALCS against the Red Sox. You can’t be much more of a big game choker than that. You should completely ignore that deceptive postseason ERA of 0.80 in 113 postseason innings.

Rivera is a choker just like Smoltz.

By Double Deuce

June 24, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this

Who gives a sh%^% what happened in freakin’ 1993. What does that have to do with anything happening today? Man, what happened to this blog today?

By FRUSTRATED BRAVES FAN

June 24, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

HEY DOB WE ALL KNOW ANDREW IS A 10/5 MAN. IS THERE ANY TEAM(S) THAT ANDREW WOULD APPROVE A TRADE TO. IT’S PAINFULLY OBVIOUS THAT THE TIME HAS COME FOR ANDREW AND THE BRAVES TO PART WAYS. HE’S KILLING US WITH THE BAT, & BY TRADING NOW, AT LEAST WE COULD GET SOMETHING IN RETURN….

By Neutral Observer

June 24, 2007 12:33 AM | Link to this

I am a neutral observer, not a rational observer. Please, understand the distinction.

I might change my name to the Hypocritical Observer. But I checked and Smoltz has already assumed that moniker for himself.

By Jonny

June 24, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

Both these guys are winners and they are a bit over a year into losing. I can see how Chipper could take the comments badly and I can see how Smoltz didn’t mean them badly. Afterall, the lineup is missing Chipper big time and Andruw is certainly not picking up any slack. This is a simple case of a couple winners being frustrated. It’s part of the game and knowing Cox, this will be resolved well and soon. It might fire up some of the others to boot.

By David O'Brien

June 24, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

Smoltz called me about 10 minutes after I walked in my door, at 10:30 tonight. i added some comments from him to the story, a new version of which should be getting posted at any moment.

He’s adament and insists he didn’t aim his comments at Chipper Friday. (I’m just telling you what the man told me). He says this is a controversy now only because of what Chipper said today, not what John said Friday.

Here’s hoping they act like the veterans they are and talk this out tomorrow. They’re been friends too long, and way too important to the team, to let something this stupid cause a huge rift.

Come out tomorrow, the two of them together, and say “Hey, there’s a lot of frustration from losing and injuries, and we both said some things we regret or that were misintepreted, but we’re moving forward for the good of the team.”

Is that too hard? Does the Man in Black blog need to mediate this thing? Wow, what a mess. Makes me feel mature, by comparison.

By Chop Chop

June 24, 2007 12:36 AM | Link to this

Neutral Observer, if Smoltz weren’t the best starter the Braves have had in each of the last three years, maybe you could make some sort of case about the closing. Unfortunately for you, he has been the #1 starter for this team during that whole time. He went from being a very good starter who happened to be great in the postseason…to being a great closer…to being a very good starter.

Regarding postseason play, Smoltz is only 2-2 in World Series play. God, that kills him. His 2.47 ERA in World Series play is atrocious. Pettitte’s record in World Series play? 3-4 with a 3.82 ERA. Smoltz’s career postseason ERA? 2.65. Pettitte is at 4.08. 15-4 career mark for Smoltz in the postseason. 14-9 career mark for Pettitte.

You make valid points.

(Italics denote sarcasm.)

By mr baseball

June 24, 2007 12:36 AM | Link to this

Neutral Observor:

John Smoltz’s career post-season record is 15-4. I’m guessing your baseball IQ is lower than 15.4.

By Headline

June 24, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this

Can we just get rid of the two of them for a used jock strap and a training bra. Cox can use the training bra for his man boobs and Cox can just put the jock strap over his is head in disgrace. This team has never been very good and this year is much of the same. The fans that keep supporting this swill are just brain-dead drones ….. Good Luck, Losers.

By nolesfaninbamacountry

June 24, 2007 12:39 AM | Link to this

Hey fast food…GOOD POINT…I was just thinking of a way to get Buerhle

By Eric C.

June 24, 2007 12:40 AM | Link to this

I love watching Chipper play…but it is his own guilty conscious for taking those comments so hard…the guy has been constantly on the DL the past few years.

Otherwise…I couldn’t care less about the bickering…the offense is as bad as it has ever been…focus on turning it around and quit bi+ching.

By gotigers72

June 24, 2007 12:42 AM | Link to this

I sided with Chipper at first, but if Smoltz says his comments weren’t directed at Chipper or any other individual, then I believe him. He never has been a liar. I have never known any player in any sport that hates losing more than Smoltz. Last year really bothered him, and now this June Swoon is getting to him. He seems frustrated and maybe should have made his comments clearer, but I take him at his word if he said the comments were not directed toward anyone in particular. Smoltz does seem grouchier this year. I guess the combination of aging, shoulder problems and losing has made him a “Grumpy Old Man”.

I expect Bobby to take some steps to straighten out the situation between the teams’ icons. And I also expect Smoltz to tell Chipper face to face that his comments weren’t directed toward him. Chipper will believe him, and the problem will be solved. Losing and not scoring runs in the process has everybody acting like Grumpy Old Men.

By Marc

June 24, 2007 12:42 AM | Link to this

You people are crazy, lol. Stop being such drama queens though.

By Neutral Observer

June 24, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

That 15-4, 2.65 ERA postseason record is incredible and incredibly deceiving at the same time. The Braves should have kept true winners like Maddux and Glavine and told Smoltz to be on his merry way. The last man standing does not mean he should be here over the two true aces of that era. He was the ATM bank other teams cash in on in big spots in the World Series and the NLCS when he is a starter. SHUT YOUR MOUTH SMOLTZ!

Last I checked, Smoltz also sits four out of every five games.

By doc

June 24, 2007 12:44 AM | Link to this

well if john schuerholtz can get over it i would think chipper could. do you think the fact chipper makes more money than smoltz gets some cause here for the smack down?

in the past a player that spoke out would be gone from the clubhouse in a second, no criticism how small was torlerated. seems there is a dilemna and maybe someone is going to have to kiss and make up, maybe they are behind closed doors now.

By GermanBravesFan

June 24, 2007 12:50 AM | Link to this

DOB - I agree: they are two adults and I think they’ll sit down and talk. Hopefully, they’ll also talk about how to get the team fired up!!!

By GermanBravesFan

June 24, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this

Neutral Observer: you cannot be serious about Smoltz….

By Mike

June 24, 2007 12:55 AM | Link to this

Great… now I wonder how long the DL stay is for hurt feelings?

Chipper is falling apart, and at this point in his career, it’s time to start looking for a permanent replacement. He’s been an amazing player when he’s on the field, but those days are few and far between.

I’m all for loyalty, but I think it’s time to think about moving him to a position that doesn’t require him to hit, field, or run. Maybe the TBS broadcast booth, where he’ll be seen about as often as he is now.

By Marc

June 24, 2007 12:55 AM | Link to this

Neutral Observer, what’s your obsession with Smoltz about? He’s the only constistant pitcher we have right now, lay off man, jesus.

You guys focus too much on stats, trade possibilites, and the past. Focus on getting drunk and channeling your chi energy to motivate the Braves to win, preferably by making Andruw’s bat hit the target more often. Or he could just stop swinging at change-ups 3 feet off the plate.

Everyone’s b*** about salaries, Chipper and Smoltz have both taken less money to stay with the Braves, and a significant amount. Don’t hate the player, hate the rules yo.

Saw Fantastic 4 pt 2 tonight, let down for sure.

When I see the Braves play next month, I’m bringing a sign that says “Frenchy, hit it to me or I’ll break your kneecaps!”

By Chop Chop

June 24, 2007 1:00 AM | Link to this

Eric C., I think you hit the nail on the head. Chipper’s feeling guilty about being hurt and he’s taking what Smoltz said to be piling on. Smoltz’s comments certainly seemed to be leaning toward trying to nudge Chipper to get back in the lineup, but Chipper’s reaction leads me to believe that he’s just feeling the pressure of all the times he hasn’t been out there to help the team. He takes that stuff hard because he’s not a malingerer. I don’t believe Chipper lies to DOB when he exhibits his frustration about the injuries he’s suffered. He really is getting hurt. It’s just a question of how much pain he can tolerate. Even if he’s limping around the bases, he’s extremely valuable to this team. The longer he’s able to gut it out, the more inspiration he might be able to give to a young, slumping team. That’s true leadership (he showed it today and deserves a lot of credit for that, no matter what the circumstances were) and I think he’s fully capable of providing that.

By matt from c-town

June 24, 2007 1:01 AM | Link to this

i think i have to agree with neutral observer. id take maddux and glavine over smoltz right now. they were light years better than him. 1996 cy young you say? he should have won more than just one being matched up against other team’s 3 and 4 starters. i’ll take chipper’s side on this one. having personal and semi-personal accounts with them both, i’ll take chipper.

By matt from c-town

June 24, 2007 1:02 AM | Link to this

i think i have to agree with neutral observer. id take maddux and glavine over smoltz right now. they were light years better than him. 1996 cy young you say? he should have won more than just one being matched up against other team’s 3 and 4 starters. i’ll take chipper’s side on this one. having personal and semi-personal accounts with them both, i’ll take chipper.

By buck Strickland

June 24, 2007 1:02 AM | Link to this

Has anyone else noticed the rise in white trash during the bosox/tiger series? Can’t even take my 6 year old to the game without having to tell the lady fans from detroit to quit cursing like sailors. I like smoltzie but he talks too much (ever hear him on 790?) and Chipper is a neck but damn good ballplayer when he wants to be. I know at least one 6 year old that hopes they iron it out and start winning some games. Go Braves. Go Dawgs!

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 1:03 AM | Link to this

Natural O’

As I recall, Glavine isn’t exactly having a banner year… not too sure about MadDog.

By GermanBravesFan

June 24, 2007 1:04 AM | Link to this

Well said, Marc!!

By Najeh Davenpoop

June 24, 2007 1:05 AM | Link to this

I’m inclined to support Smoltz in this situation, because he has shown he can bounce back from injuries and play hurt much better than Chipper and at an older age. Really though, both of these guys need to shut up. It’s not like this is Jeff Francoeur or Yunel Escobar talking — these guys are veterans who should know by now to keep these things in house and not whine to the media. Just play the damn game and hopefully score more than one run tomorrow. What a great time the Braves chose to be playing five nationally televised games in eight days.

By parks

June 24, 2007 1:05 AM | Link to this

The idiots have come out in full force on the blog tonight!

By JDG123

June 24, 2007 1:07 AM | Link to this

Neutral Observer say: Last I checked, Smoltz also sits four out of every five games.

That is correct. John Smoltz is out there pretty much every time he is scheduled to play. Chipper Jones is the new version of no-show Jones. He is never there when scheduled.

By Wayne in Utah

June 24, 2007 1:07 AM | Link to this

Neutral Observer I think I hear your mama calling for you to go to bed now. So, turn off your computer, and quit saying stupid things about John Smoltz. John Smoltz has probably been one of the 5 best pitchers all-time in playoff history.

Every time you type something, you will confirm what many already are concluding on the blog. You are not too smart. So give it a rest, and salvage your reputation.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 1:07 AM | Link to this

Mike,

you forgot to mention one thing… only about .5% of the Braves games are even ON TBS… never mind, now I see your point.

By buck Strickland

June 24, 2007 1:08 AM | Link to this

One more thing… Sat in left field today, Shef looked like he used to when he played for San Diego. Must be south beach diet I guess… Hit one off the wall, probably would’ve been out before the diet. Hank will always be the king baby.

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 1:10 AM | Link to this

I’ve been just a postin’ and a postin’ for several hours I guess … and now I see where everybody’s gone … good stuff it was too!

Forget family politics for a moment and watch a truly remarkable story about a woman up Wayne’s way …a Utah artist whose heart is better than her work … and that’s pretty doggoned good from what I can tell!

A special meaning for those who serve/served or have friends or loved ones now so doing.

http://mfile.akamai.com/21772/wmv/gannett.download.akamai.com/21772/streaming/wmv/hancockportraits.asx

By Richard

June 24, 2007 1:13 AM | Link to this

* Chipper is NOT a clubhouse leader.* He is a whining, two bit prima donna HICK who finds his way to the DL for every potential hang nail. Get rid of both the Jones boys.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 1:14 AM | Link to this

Buck.

I don’t think it matters much where yo u go anymore… people just talk that way because they think it’s part of the English language, though it is very shameful (I’m a father of 3 myself). Anyway, I’m halfway with you… Go Braves and Go Vols!

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 1:17 AM | Link to this

Just allow telephone poles to be used as baseball bats… then Andruw will snap out of it!!

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 1:21 AM | Link to this

Richard,

I find it hard to believe that Chipper would rather be on the DL… he swung at a pitch, hurt himself, and knocked the next pitch out of the park… unless he belongs in Hollywood, I don’t think he was faking his injury.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 1:24 AM | Link to this

Neutral Observor,

Is that a question from personal experience? Just curious

By Mike

June 24, 2007 1:24 AM | Link to this

Still think the Betemit deal was a STUPID deal…

By Anti-Homer

June 24, 2007 1:24 AM | Link to this

Hank was using roids before they were fashionable. What a trend setter ….. You have gone from a has-been to a never was and you will be erased from the record books very soon. Enjoy it while you can, loser.

By Hunk Erdown

June 24, 2007 1:29 AM | Link to this

No matter how you feel about Chipper, like him or not, this was a chickensh*t way for it to be handled by Smoltz. I love Smoltz, but to say he wasn’t directing the comments towards Chipper is BullHockey. A leader like Smoltz should have gone to the man and had a sit down with him, even if (wink, wink) it wasn’t Chipper he was talking about he had to know that Chipper was going to take it like he was. If he wasn’t talking about Chipper he would have made that Damn clear to Chipper on Saturday instead of giving him the silent treatment. People are frustrated, thats understandable, but you don’t air dirty laundry in fromt of the press. Smoltz needs to admit the frustration, apologize to the whole team, and bury this crap now.

If its time for Chipper to move to a new position like 1st base, or whatever the solution is for the non ending string of injuries, then fine, lets work on it, but to make veiled accusations about the man’s heart and character is just wrong. Again, even if by some weird chance Smoltz wasn’t really talking about Chipper, its still wrong. You just don’t pull that crap on a team mate.

By Wayne in Utah

June 24, 2007 1:31 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist That was a great story. I have saved it to show to my family tomorrow!

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 1:34 AM | Link to this

Don’t worry… tomorrow all will be well…

Chipper: don’t go breakin’ my heart

Smoltz: I couldn’t if I tried …

By The Truth Hurts

June 24, 2007 1:34 AM | Link to this

Is it a full moon? So much nonsense tonight. Where are all the regular bloggers, anyway? Who gave them permission to leave? I never thought I’d say this: I miss them.

Bob, Journalist…regale me with your prose. Savannah Guy, recap all the nonsense. B9 or N8, complain. Alot. Robert, Cox got ejected. It’s an easy night for you. I mean, really, what does a guy have to do around here to get a little apocalyptic sentiment?

I drank much wine tonight.

Understatement of the year warning…Braves stink right now. Yet, still not out of it. Yet.

Boston and Detroit are the two best teams in the world right now. How nice it must be to be a Tiger fan: they actually have a surplus of starting pitching. Yikes.

At least we’re not the White Sox. Or the $200 million Yankees.

Some emotion would be a nice thing to see every once in a while from this team. In a twisted way, it’s actually kind of nice to see these guys frustrated. They should be. They stink .

By MidTnBravesFan

June 24, 2007 1:34 AM | Link to this

I never thought I’d be saying this, but let’s trade Chipper and get some young pitching prospects or something. Back in 2004 the Boston Red Sox traded away their most popular and most injured player and things worked out pretty swell for them. I do not think Chipper Jones will ever play a full healthy season again unless he is a DH in the American League. Part of me would hate to see him go but in the long run it could be a very smart and valuable move for this franchise.

By Alex

June 24, 2007 1:35 AM | Link to this

Trade Chipper Jones to an AL team, like the Texas Rangers for some prospects! Cut some dead weight off the payroll.

Ask Andruw to accept a deal to the Yankees or Angels, and deal him for as much as you can get. Or better yet, sign and “trade” with those teams, so you get more in return.

That is the way to improve for the future, time to part ways with the past!

Start fresh, with Yunel, Rent, Kelly and Salty on the infield, play Diaz, Willie and Frenchy in the outfield. Call up some of the kids like Brandon Jones as well. Play for the next 2-3 years, not this year. This year is over.

Even if by some wild a** scenario, they win the NL east, they aren’t even going to win their first round series, so why mortage the future for some used up Mark Burhlie?

Oh, and LARRY..SHUT UP and PLAY

By MidTnBravesFan

June 24, 2007 1:35 AM | Link to this

I never thought I’d be saying this, but let’s trade Chipper and get some young pitching prospects or something. Back in 2004 the Boston Red Sox traded away their most popular and most injured player and things worked out pretty swell for them. I do not think Chipper Jones will ever play a full healthy season again unless he is a DH in the American League. Part of me would hate to see him go but in the long run it could be a very smart and valuable move for this franchise.

By Wayne in Utah

June 24, 2007 1:37 AM | Link to this

This he said, she said stuff, is boring as can be. They can either kiss and make up, or not. Personally, I don’t know that I care.

It probably shouldn’t have been said the way it was originally, and it probably shouldn’t have been responded to the way it was.

You are both professionals. Keep it to yourselves, BOTH of you.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 1:39 AM | Link to this

Bring on Sam Perlozzo

By Wayne in Utah

June 24, 2007 1:41 AM | Link to this

Neutral Dude

Yes, we do both have something in common. I also thought Bugs Bunny was cute when he dressed up like a girl!

Now, I wasn’t kidding. I do think that is your mama calling you. Now run on off to bed. Do you have your cute Barney pj’s on with the footies tonight?? I thought so…..

By Hunk Erdown

June 24, 2007 1:42 AM | Link to this

Bob—

What a neat story! Thanks for the link bro, it made my day.

By matt from c-town

June 24, 2007 1:42 AM | Link to this

trade chipper and you trade away the majority of your fan base. i was heart broken when justice was traded. they got me again with klesko, then glavine walked, and then maddux as well. then they got me with laroche and andruw is next. but i got over all of that. but if we were to trade chipper, i wouldnt be a braves fan anymore.

By Wayne in Utah

June 24, 2007 1:46 AM | Link to this

Truth I think many of the regulars are either out on the town, or in another article/blog. Bob, J has checked in, but not too many other regulars.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 1:46 AM | Link to this

Just joking…

I do think that Smoltz/Chipper will rise above this and move on… seems more has been made that what is actually there.

By NASCARfan

June 24, 2007 1:47 AM | Link to this

What I love is Neutral Observer saying we could have kept “real” winners like Glavine and Maddux.

In all of those postseason losses (4) that he listed for Smoltz, I guess “Neatral” Observer forgot that Maddux and Glavine are SUB .500 POSTSEASON PITCHERS!!!

I guess “Neutral” Observer (Larry Wayne Jones, Sr.) forgot that Maddux and Glavine are very much a apart of the reason why the Braves only have one World Series win. I guess that moron forgot that Maddux and Glavine are the Bobby Cox of pitchers: they can get it done in the regular season, but boy did they SUCK in the postseason!

“Neutral” Observer (Chipper’s Dad), you’re as dumb a hick as Chipper (Your Son) is. You obviously don’t have a damn clue what you’re talking about.

Dummy.

By Wayne in Utah

June 24, 2007 1:48 AM | Link to this

Fastfoodfreak

Hey man, go get us come chili cheeseburgers!

:-)

By Wayne in Utah

June 24, 2007 1:50 AM | Link to this

Fastfoodfreak

Is Sam Perlozzo a new style of pizza?

By Thrillhouse44

June 24, 2007 1:59 AM | Link to this

Man, is this an effect of all of the losing? Are these dudes just frustrated that they haven’t been playing good ball? I hope these guys look at the bigger picture and don’t let one argument cause a huge rift amongst the teams. This makes me sick…that or it’s the 2 cheeseburgers, many Thriller Lites, and few Cuervo shots I’ve had.

Remember when Ron Gant kicked Doug Drabek?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

June 24, 2007 1:59 AM | Link to this

Man, what a great Busch race tonight. I am a big Denny Hamlin fan. Oh and baseball… not so good. Bad vibes from a frustrated bunch. Good effort by Davies today but too much Verlander, another local (Richmond) boy.

This team is snakebite right now but to be honest, about where they deserve to be. Starting pitching is suspect and absolutely not getting any help from the offense. Time for a team meeting to get this crap behind them.

Meeting some new players might do it best. Just as long as we don’t have a Barrett vs Zambrano moment in the dugout we should get past this.

I guess we have all been spoiled by so many winning seasons, we have forgotten what it is like to have a losing team.

By William

June 24, 2007 2:02 AM | Link to this

Right on John Smoltz! It’s about time somebody called it out on Larry Wayne, even if you did so by accident. He’s already missed about 20 games with booboos on his thumbs or palms or whatever from a simple fall. I saw that game against Pittsburgh and Chipper went on the disabled list for that? And now, a groin strain and until today he was set to go BACK on the disabled list? Plus, he jacks one to the opposite field today and he’s too hurt to play? For $12.3 million a year, he needs to have his butt on the field - for professionals there’s a big difference between being hurt and being injured. Unless you want people to remember you as “a great ballplayer but what a p@#$y”, get a hormone shot and shut up about it. You make J.D. Drew look like a tough guy. People rag at Andruw ad nauseum for being stubborn and giving a clinic on offensive futility, but the man comes to play EVERY day with bad shoulders, knees, back and still dives for line drives and crashes into walls. McCann hasn’t done anything but ground out to second base this month, but he’s out there EVERY day catching on a bad ankle that would have Chipper in a wheelchair.

The true objection of Smoltz’s comments notwithstanding, maybe a little dust-up in the clubhouse will wake this team up. Some fire and emotion would do a world of good for this team. The season isn’t over by a long shot, there’s still 87 games to play and in this mediocre division, a lot can still happen. Like most other Braves fans, I live and die with the team every day during baseball season and still have faith that this team has the talent to take the division. Chipper, stop crying, get some treatment for your newest “ouchie”, check your ego at the door and start acting like a team leader again.

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 2:17 AM | Link to this

It was no joke … for those who may be so interested … just say “here” when your name is called. For all you would be trouble makers, “present” will not be accepted”, unless it’s nicely wrapped or there’s money inside.

At 10:07, I wrote a novelette called “Alright boys and girls, it’s time to choose up sides!” … I chose John.

At 11:00, talked some trash with Paladin, and TommyB, with a short love note to JoeBrave offering to send his Mama some free soap.

At, 11:50 I responded to Markdawg, revealing my expectations for the team … which, haven’t been realized, or so me thinks; and

Last but not least, a 12:48 howdy to the other Bob and a response to Robert regarding the Family Feud … ‘tweren’t nothing real bad said since I agreed with him and told him so; closing with “You write good Kid!” … well, methinks he’s currently doing that!

If you’ve been just scrolling past Robert’s posts, you might reverse directions and take a peek … he’s worth a read, even if you disagree.

Now, if I could only get Andruw to listen … anybody got a 4x6?

My turn to read the latest on Family Feud!

By The Grinch

June 24, 2007 2:20 AM | Link to this

  It's time for a steel cage match...nothing else will do.  :-)

By TC

June 24, 2007 2:24 AM | Link to this

Where is Michael Barrett when we need him?

By Matt

June 24, 2007 2:32 AM | Link to this

IS IT ME or is everybody just sick and tired of all these pathetic semi pro sports teams we have in Atlanta. The Falcons what a Bunch of Losers can’t have two back to back winning seasons Plus they have the Thug Micheal Vick as a quarterback what a great leader. The Hawks a Bad class A high school basketball team could beat these losers. They are the joke of the NBA The Thrashers play good in the regular season but like every other sports team in ATLANTA they choked and could not win a single playoff game again abunch of losers. FINALLY THE BIGGEST LOSERS THE BRAVES THE TEAM EVERYONE LOVES AS BAD AS THEY CHOKE EVERY YEAR. ITS PRETTY PATHETIC THAT OUR TWO OLDEST PLAYERS ON THE TEAM ARE ACTING LIKE BABIES TOWARD ONE ANOTHER GROW UP SOMETIMES I WONDER IF THEY ARE THE ONES RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS MESS BRING BACK THE GOOD TEAM WE HAD ATLANTA THE ATLANTA BEAT THE WOMANS SOCCER TEAM WE ONCE HAD. I SAY WE ATLANTA FANS PROTEST THESE FOUR EMBARRASMENTS WE HAVE REPRESENTING OUR STATE AND OUR GREAT CITY. TO EITHER START WINNING OR GO AND BE ANOTHER CITIES LOSERS

By brewdawg

June 24, 2007 2:38 AM | Link to this

DOB, You mentioned that Chip and Smoltz had “been friends for too long”, and you would know better than me of course, but ever since that post-post-season tiff they had a couple of years back, I’ve just always figured they didn’t really like each other much off the field. I really don’t see how if they’ve been friends for so long that they wouldn’t have handled it themselves. I still think this thing is getting overblown though. I’m interested to see what happens tomorrow night on ESPN, that’s for sure.

By Robert

June 24, 2007 2:44 AM | Link to this

DOB - How about posting a poll where we simply vote John or Chipper?

Now what I have been pondering is how to explain that Smoltz’s move actually does call out - Bobby Cox

To understand this, you have to first realize how solidly Smoltz has always been behind Cox. That means that Smoltz knows the Cox code, and knows that he stepped outside of it by saying what he did in the way and in the forum in which he did so

Cox is the man in charge, and his rule (written or unwritten) about keeping team business inside clubhouse walls has got to be common knowledge to every member (past or present) of the Braves

And yet Smoltzie felt it warranted that he violate those rules, and to break the chain of command in doing so

Now the last guy who did let the fire in his belly spur him to anything resembling a similar outburst was John Rocker.

The Braves were correct in divesting themselves of John Rocker.

But John Rocker’s idiocy gave them an excuse (which they were quick to use) to rid themselves of him without addressing any of the underlying organizational issues that combined with Rocker’s own personal issues to lead to his outbursts.

What happens here amongst the players is improtant, for this group and this season. How the organization orchestrates what has happened and must now happen is important to not only this season, but to the future of the organization.

They can let Smoltzie go, or try to simply cover the mess and move on - either tactic will expose them as nothing more than the IBM of the sports world, where image is everything, and secondary to perormance.

Is image everything, or is it more important to just do it.

I vote the latter.

I am NOT campaigning for us to see public fisticuffs or bickering of any sort.

What I am saying is that the emotion displayed regarding this matter by all the parties currently involved needs to be extended to the whole organization, down to the core, and needs to then be channeled to constructive end.

Once the master strategy is analyzed, debated, appropriately tweaked, and implemented, it will be time for every Brave to just do it.

NO excuses.

By Mike

June 24, 2007 2:59 AM | Link to this

I honestly love both of those guys and this entire team. I hope that things can start to turn around quickly. Everyone has gotten cold at the same time so maybe everyone can get hot at the same time

By The Grinch

June 24, 2007 2:59 AM | Link to this

Well, my post was about three paragraphs, and it’s a damn shame it didn’t get posted. I don’t have the energy to re-post at this point; got to snooze. Behave, y’all. Robert, I see where you’re going…hmmm. We shall see.

By David O'Brien

June 24, 2007 3:14 AM | Link to this

Just came down to my basement office to shut off the laptop and lights, etc, and saw this post from MATT:

“IS IT ME or is everybody just sick and tired of all these pathetic semi pro sports teams we have in Atlanta…. SOMETIMES I WONDER IF THEY ARE THE ONES RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS MESS BRING BACK THE GOOD TEAM WE HAD ATLANTA THE ATLANTA BEAT THE WOMANS SOCCER TEAM WE ONCE HAD….”

Uh, Matt, I can answer your question: It’s you. Without a doubt.

By Double Deuce

June 24, 2007 3:27 AM | Link to this

Chop Chop Your 1:00 am post was right on the money. I doubt that Chipper likes sitting on the bench or being on the DL. By his own admission(and from others around him)he doesn’t work out at all, and I think its catching up to him and its a hard realization to know you can’t do the things you used to do easily before. I don’t for one minute believe he fakes any injuries. He is either a great actor, or a great hitter because he flinched on the swing before he hit the homerun today.

My take is that he knows he’s past his prime, that he’s going to miss games, so he’s trying to keep himself as healthy as he can to be able to contribute all year. As bad as this last stretch has been, we are still only 2 1/2 games out of first and if we are going to have a chance at this, we need him in September. If missing games in June allows him to be available in September, then so be it. I don’t think it’s a stretch to say that when he is in the lineup he is the most important member of the team. This team doesn’t have a chance if Chipper and Smoltz don’t reconcile their differences, and I can’t imagine that Bobby Cox won’t patch this up.

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 3:28 AM | Link to this

Hunk, Glad I could so provide … a very special lady! Did you cry?

Truth, most are probably now in bed like we should be … but several rather good posts on the previous Blog ‘cause some folks didn’t get the message that this one was up.

My basic feelings are expressed in greater detail on the previous Blog but methinks those who attack or defend either player may be totally missing the point … it don’t make a tinker’s damn whose fault it is, or whether it’s neither or both … something’s been festering and it ain’t on Gunsmoke!

This is a good opportunity, not only to clear the air and get things resolved … but to allow this to take the focus of these kids away from their current performance failures and confidence issues … allowing the blame, if you will, to be placed on something other than themselves … something to which hopefully they can point and say … that’s behind us!

It’s important that they seize this opportunity and the resolution is real rather than manufactured or imagined … for those who question how such things could happen or continue without being properly identified, the kids have no plane of reference and the principals have but a very limited one obtained over a span of consecutive winning seasons … the notion that such things just happen is a non-response response that needs to be changed, if it exists.

If the process does not result in the emergence of new and effective leadership and direction at all levels, then the journey won’t have been worth the price of the trip … though it may be a bit more pleasant in the clubhouse, at least for a while.

As always, the why is more important than the what, or so methinks!

By Braves Fan 79

June 24, 2007 3:38 AM | Link to this

Smoltz was right in what he said. It seems like chippers lost his passion to win. Anyone who talks crap about smoltz is a idiot. He goes out and shuts down the best of teams while hurt and having to pitch sidearmed. Go Braves!
last nights game gave me hope because if Davies can get on a roll we can really improve here sooner than later. KJ not getting that bunt down really hurt us. I dunno why bobby didnt just let him hit and get a RBI. Are the Braves really that slow that noone but Harris can score from 2nd anymore??

By chil61

June 24, 2007 3:50 AM | Link to this

I think Smoltz knows exactly what he is doing in this situation. He pushed Chippers button. CJ says he will be in the lineup the rest of the yr so we’ll see if it works.

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 4:04 AM | Link to this

David O’B, you’re truly a man of breeding and letters … you certainly know how to set the stage … the right man at the right place at the right time … I was just readying myself to respond to Matt’s cry for help … same answer, a hour late and a dime short.

Good Night Miss Allen!

By Berigan

June 24, 2007 4:38 AM | Link to this

You know, I can be a bit slow at times…no, really! It just hit me, if Chipper hadn’t played Saturday, we most likely would have been shut out 4 straight games!!!

By Wayne

June 24, 2007 5:13 AM | Link to this

I’m loving this a lot, not because I’m a braves fan(I’m not, 4th place at best this year), but because it shows what an overpaid mental midget who sits out games with things like, oh, a sore toe is really like. Both jones should be given the heave-ho.

By Paul In Richmond

June 24, 2007 5:33 AM | Link to this

The Braves have a leadership problema and thank Goodness for Smoltz. You can’t be led by a grinning cleanup hitter with a 199 average and you cannot be led by a part time player who is running out of things to injure.

The team needs a leader and I am praying that the McCann ejection and the Smoltz comments are signs that there are a couple leaders ready to take over.

By David

June 24, 2007 5:36 AM | Link to this

Smotlz would play with a broken arm if they let him. Chipper is a child. Trade Chipper

By serbok

June 24, 2007 5:40 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist Thank you Soooo much for the 1:10 A.m> link!! Literally brought tears to my eyes!!! I forwarded it to all in my address book, I have never ever done that b4! Never had a reason to! until now~ Brought tears to my eyes~ Thanx man:o)

By serbok

June 24, 2007 6:09 AM | Link to this

*By Robert

June 24, 2007 2:44 AM | Link to this

DOB - How about posting a poll where we simply vote John or Chipper?

Now what I have been pondering is how to explain that Smoltz’s move actually does call out - Bobby Cox*

Touche’!

By serbok

June 24, 2007 6:23 AM | Link to this

Neutral Observor- comes off as someone whom is a regular blogger, maybe I’m wrong? Which would surely be the first time? lol

I have Never understood why ppl change there identities on this or any other blog? I have said some crazy things~ AS I’m sure YOU all are aware of? Must be some sorta insecurity or something? I just dont get it~ I do have a tendency to drink a few buddy weiesers and then wake up and think? What the hell did I post at 6:20 A.M in the morning. But hell, will never Hide behind another “screen name” for lack of a better term for screen name? blogger name? handle? Identity?

By Berigan

June 24, 2007 6:42 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist…like Serbok, I to thank you for the 1:10 AM clip, that is one amazing, selfless woman!!!!

By tbo

June 24, 2007 6:58 AM | Link to this

I’m with Matt. This is losersville! Dump Bobby Cox.

By cursive

June 24, 2007 7:22 AM | Link to this

Maybe this Smoltzie - Chipper feud will light a fire under the Braves’ arses… They need something! They have been playing the most lackluster baseball that I can remember seeing in this city since… Well, since last June. We need a complete and total facelift as a team; hopefully we will clean house before the end of the season, hang on to our young talent, cut the dead weight and re-establish the greatest franchise in MLB. Screw you Yankess and BoSox!

By Rob

June 24, 2007 7:25 AM | Link to this

Smoltz and Chipper know what they are doing, this is all put together for the media, so the younger players on the team, SEE this and think, WOW, veterns are calling each other out, it could be me next, so i better bust my butt. I bet they are sitting back in the clubhouse or on Smotlz’s back deck drinking a beer, plotting where to go next with this!…WWE, thats all this is!….

By JasonInMaine

June 24, 2007 7:34 AM | Link to this

This is as concerning as the team’s play…this just doesn’t happen in a Braves’ clubhouse. The team is falling apart. They are further out in the wildcard than the division. We are an awful fundamental team. McCann is a shell of what he was last year. Andruw is…well we all know how he is doing…we can’t hit and for the most part we can’t pitch. When we do one we don’t do the other. We are finding ways to lose instead of winning. THIS TEAM IS DONE! But, it has the foundation to compete next year. Their trades should be made with that in mind.

By Dawgvet

June 24, 2007 7:36 AM | Link to this

Chipper’s longetivity has decreased in the past years. In 2005 he played in 67% of the games. In ‘06 he played in 67% of the games, and so far this year he has improved to 68% of the games. I see a pattern here. Maybe he should only get paid 67% of his salary. What Smoltz did was make a long needed (years) wake up call to the entire team.

By Josh C

June 24, 2007 7:36 AM | Link to this

As all the young bucks stood around and watched, the old cowboy and the ancient sheriff exchanged stares. Seems the cowboy took exception to the sheriff calling him soft, and he aimed for revenge. The sheriff, fearless as always having tamed more than a few hotheads over his years, just stood there patiently waiting, his right hand on his gun. Somehow you just knew that nothing, not the scar down his elbow, old age, or wild horses would keep that old man from winning the draw. So there the cowboy stood, pondering. Would he trade his life for revenge? The young bucks stood there trembling, knowing their town was changed forever… just wondering how…

By Parkwooddawg

June 24, 2007 7:39 AM | Link to this

I’m getting a little tired of Smoltzie using the media to complain about things. He should learn how to be a man and confront those with whom he has a issue.

As for Chip, I believe he has proven over time that he is a team player. Things like deferring money so the team could sign talent.

By CM

June 24, 2007 7:42 AM | Link to this

I just hope the two of them work it out, OUTSIDE THE FLIPPIN’ MEDIA and that the entire team can muster enough gumption to right the ship. They look pathetic lately and there’s no denying that. I love Smoltz and I love Chipper and neither are single handidly responsible for the teams results this season, obviously.

Now, can any of you pitch, b/c we have a few gigantic holes to fill.

Oh, I forgot to mention, dump Druw. I think he has a no-trade clause, though.

Go Braves! I was at the game you won vs Boston (you know, the one where you took apart Curt SChilling) and I’d be much obliged if the same could be true for today.

By TheCutMan

June 24, 2007 7:42 AM | Link to this

It had to happen. If not now, certainly it would have sometime soon.

Teams can catch fire, go into games expecting to win and the players feed off the synergy of the rising tide of victories. Winning becomes a habit.

The opposite is also true, when losing becomes comfortable until someone steps up and says “ENOUGH!”. Bravo to Smoltzie for being that guy.

By CM

June 24, 2007 7:47 AM | Link to this

JasonInMain - I have to agree about Mac, although he has been playing hurt (who doesn’t to a degree, though?), but has anyone noticed how much weight Mac’s put on since last season? Seems he could be a little too comfortable, I don’t know.

By George

June 24, 2007 7:48 AM | Link to this

Keep talking about this and Vick. And before you know it….The Buc’s will kick you in the teeth AGAIN!

By ncscoots

June 24, 2007 7:50 AM | Link to this

Once again, Smoltz’s monumental ego and big mouth override his brain (although I give him points for giving it some new spin after realizing what he had done). Someone might want to mention to him that the best day to talk left-handed trash about a teammate is not the one in which you just gave up a nickel and got rocked.

nathan said this earlier: Not ANY DIFFERENCE in what Smoltz is saying (tongue in cheek) about Chipper, than when Chipper called out JD Drew early in the only season he wore a Braves unform.

Wrong. No pitcher, and I mean NO pitcher, has the cred to call out an everyday player, tongue-in-cheek, barely-concealed, or any other fashion. Just as no position player could reasonably call out a pitcher.

Some of you folks love Smoltz, and that’s fine. I admire him immensely between the lines myself. But he depleted his respect account with me last year, and this little hoorah makes him overdrawn. Some of you may call his remarks “leadership”…it ain’t. It’s big-mouth bovine excrement from someone who knows better. Not that he cares about my opinion. Or, obviously, anyone else’s.

Chipper shouldn’t have responded in the media (he should have just gotten in the sucker’s grill in the clubhouse), but I can’t fault him for it. Let’s hope they get over it.

By charles corley

June 24, 2007 7:50 AM | Link to this

Smoltzzzzie, Chipper and Bobby. Smoltzzzzie is a front row Baptist who junked his family, Chipper is a Hooter’s w******* who junked his family and Cox is still going to wife beating classes. These are 3 wonderful examples of family values for your children grow up with. A hypocrite, an adulterer and a filthy mouth. What happened to Bob Reid and the Crackers.

By bobo

June 24, 2007 7:59 AM | Link to this

i think what everybody is missing here is, we don’t know how badly chipper is hurt. if the docs are saying it will be painful to play but probably won’t get worse, he ought to be in there, but if the strained muscle is subject to tear requiring surgery he shouldn’t be. i’m guessing smoltz doesn’t have that inside info, but maybe i’m wrong. i can’t recall anyone doubting chipper’s many injuries before and calling him a malingerer, but now it seems like everyone kind of thought it but just kept it to themselves. i think chipper should make the call as to whether he should play and i think he’s acting like a 5 year old trying to teach his dad a lesson.

By bobo

June 24, 2007 8:04 AM | Link to this

well said ncscoots.

By ssiscribe

June 24, 2007 8:08 AM | Link to this

Chipper and Smoltz firing barbs through the media. Nice.

The entire thing is on the verge of imploding. The last thing I think anybody wants to see is the two veterans taking shots at each other through the press.

It’s frustration, plain and simple. Both guys are hurt. Both guys need to be healthy for the Braves to snap out of this. It’s late June, the team is in third place and 3.5 games out, and underachieveing like nobody’s business. The back end of the rotation sucks (although Davies did pitch well today), the offense has went missing, the cleanup hitter is hitting below .200 and the American League just made us look like an overmatched high school team.

With all of that said, hopefully this will be the jolt that gets the Braves back into gear. After today, it’s home with the Nats, then the roadie out West. Gotta hold on tight and start scoring some runs, or else the gap between the Braves and first place is going to grow.

Sigh. Don’t think any of us signed up for this. The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Bob

June 24, 2007 8:09 AM | Link to this

I think Neutral Observer is pulling our chain. I mean, first Smoltz and then Rivera? If he is not, then he wins the prize as biggest dummy on the blog.

By bobby cox

June 24, 2007 8:09 AM | Link to this

I probably should have said something a long time ago, but hell, I’m just good ol’ Bobby.

By a monti

June 24, 2007 8:19 AM | Link to this

Where was Smoltz 5 years ago which is when Larry should have been traded away while the Braves could still get something for him.

Chipper is a fraud. He is the most injured baseball player in the history of the world. He also extends the groin type injuries worse than Mike Vick if that can even be said here.

Trade Chipper and the Other A Jones now. Get them out of Atlanta and go with the young guys.

C Jones is a joke and has been for so many years here its not funny.

By Daybed Wagmoe

June 24, 2007 8:21 AM | Link to this

the last time i remember any sort of clubhouse squabble like this with guys taking potshots at each other was last year when mike remlinger threw a ball out of chipper’s reach and allowed the winning run to score. after the game, when asked if it was a catchable ball, remlinger said, “i don’t know, why don’t you go ask chipper?” about a week later remlinger was dropped from the team (not for this comment, because he sucked; but i wonder if the comment encouraged braves execs to drop him).

hopefully this situation where end up better than that one did.

By MEB

June 24, 2007 8:31 AM | Link to this

ncscoots…you sir have hit the nail square on the head. Baseball does indeed have some traditional lines of communication and Smoltz appears to have stepped plainly outside of them. I know in his late night phone call he says his comments were not directed at Chipper but how else could they be interpreted. It will be interesting to see how these two great players smooth this one over but what I want to see is some victories on the field.

A nice showing by Davies yesterday is being overshadowed by this mess. He showed some real nasty major league stuff and he really appears to have some tremendous potential.

GO BRAVES!!!

By Tampabrave

June 24, 2007 8:33 AM | Link to this

For all of you that say sit AJ and CJ, and play Salty and Escobar instead, I say pull your head out of your a*. Despite thier woes, they are our best chance. They are battle tested and have proven they can perform. If we listened to you morons, we’d be chasing the Nats instead of the Mets because thats what teams with potentially good players do; they show potential. A team that has potential is usually not winning. Get a hold of yourselves.

By Bob

June 24, 2007 8:37 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I have read what John said to you and then I read again what he was “quoted” as saying Friday night.

Smoltz allegedly said ” I certainly appreciate the effort of the guys who were on the field busting it. We all wish we were feeling better, but that’s the way it goes”. He added, “We can’t worry about who’s in the lineup and who isn’t. You can’t worry about that stuff anymore…. The guys who are in there are busting their butts, thats all I know”.

Then last night John tells you he was referring to himself when a reporter asked how he was feeling.

I love Smoltzie and he has the biggest heart on this team, but ain’t no way on the planet any rational person can think that those remarks were intended for himself and not Chipper. John would have been better off not calling you if that is his response. These two need to get this resolved man to man.

Unless he is deserving of an Oscar, Chipper is clearly hurt. The pain on that missed swing was all too damn real. Sure, he hit a home run and ended our infamous scoring drought, but could he have even gotten to 1st base on a hit to right field? Everyone has their own idea of why he is getting more injured these days than he used to. Fine, whatever, but he is definitely hurtin pretty bad.

Now we have a hard headed knucklehead 3d baseman who is going to prove he is a man by going out daily and a hard headed knucklehead pitcher who decided to take out his understandable frustration to the press. If they resolve this, they and the team will be better off having gone through this turmoil.

This team still has a chance. Davies pitched well yesterday and our bullpen continues to sparkle. We are fortunate because we play in the lesser league and as DOB has said many times, ALL the teams in NL have significant issues.

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 8:39 AM | Link to this

I share the feeling and strongly agree that airing one’s linen in public is poor form and poor judgment.

However this is a team … twenty five on the roster plus a coaching staff and manager. Suggesting that pitchers and position players hold different status with different privileges may sound good but such class distinction just somehow doesn’t quite seem consistent with team.

I’ve posted a novelette expressing my opines on the situation that is as poorly written as it is long. Indeed it may have been rejected because of its length.

I wanted to say it all once and get it said … no posits … just my opines. No agenda, it may seem to be slanted against Chipper since it’s primarily some of my thoughts regarding what I believe is his inability to handle some of the burdens associated with the leadership role expected of him and how he has been impacted. It is not my intent that it be so considered.

I just hope that it might give some pause, regardless of whether they agree, to be a little more understanding of all the parties involved.

As an aside, I voted that they’ll talk it through and get a spark from it … not the majority opinion.

I’ll repost and if necessary, break it into chapters.

For those who enjoyed the link earlier provided, that’s what it’s all about! She’s not a bad artist either!

By Devoe

June 24, 2007 8:43 AM | Link to this

BOB HORNER where are you? Oh, you are still here.

By Devoe

June 24, 2007 8:47 AM | Link to this

With a little sense, Chipper could have owned this town like no other Brave ever has.

By Bob

June 24, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist,

Good mornin to you. As usual, you have eloquently provide some dignity to what otherwise has been a beer (bier) hall brawl.

By Bravefanwinorloose

June 24, 2007 8:54 AM | Link to this

John Smoltz is the Heart and Soul of the Braves, if John in fact called you out Chipper, you needed it!!!! Play Ball Damn IT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Spinelli

June 24, 2007 8:55 AM | Link to this

Everyone on this blog know Chipper isn’t going anywhere. He would never approve any trade and besides who would trade for him when he is hurt so much. The two most tradeable players on the roster are Hudson and Renteria, and unfortunately it may be time to start listening to offers. When AJ sees these things happening he should walk into JS office and tell him that he would accept a trade enabling the team which made him a millionaire to get back on their feet. AJ has to know he is never coming back. If he accepts a trade and gets into the post-season he may be able to make back all the money he has lost over the beginnig of the season.

By 59bulldawg

June 24, 2007 8:59 AM | Link to this

I can’t determine if Smoltz called Chipper out or not. Smoltz’s explanation seems plausible … but what do you think DOB? All I know is that ever since Chipper’s Hooter’s escapades he’s been a jackass … a talented and too often injured jackass but a jackass nonetheless. So in my view even if Smoltz did call him out, is it such a bad thing? Everybody loves the appearance of team unity but if Chipper’s teammates have lost faith in him then there’s already a problem no matter how united the facade. I say get the punk to agree to a trade and then trade his a* for some pitching. No matter how talented the player, if he can’t play because he’s hurt all the time, he can’t help the team. It’s time for Chipper to go elswhere.

By ncscoots

June 24, 2007 9:04 AM | Link to this

I doubt there are two people on this blog with more mutual respect for each other than Bob and I. And we have disagreed on any number of questions, sometimes forcefully, with no diminution of that respect. Is it so hard to believe that two outstanding players with a much longer relationship in a much more stressful environment should be able to do the same?

Bob, I’m afraid that the player for whom the concept of “team” is blurred, is Smoltz. Why is it when Carlos Zambrano shows up a teammate, it’s bush, but when Smoltz does it, it’s “leadership”? Does not compute, my friend. Not to me.

By stynes

June 24, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this

Today’s t-shirt slogan inspired me…

I hear the Smoltz a comin’ He’s rollin’ ‘round the bend, And he ain’t been on the DL, Since, I don’t know when, Chipper’s in the lineup, And the team’s still down, But Smoltz keeps a-rollin’, One day to Cooperstown.

More to come… or anyone else want to help with verse 2?

By nolesfaninbamacountry

June 24, 2007 9:08 AM | Link to this

I say we just let Chipper & Smoltzie fight it out in the locker room….. But we need to be prepared for chipper to go on the DL when it’s over…………

By Daxxed

June 24, 2007 9:13 AM | Link to this

OK lets give Chipper some credit. I have had the same knee surgery he has had. And mine was 10 years after his so I know that if he is playing with just this type of pain everday then my hat is off to him. The surgery corrects the problem but it does not remove the pain. Next has anyone here ever had a bone bruise. It does not heal over night. Ever step on a rock and for months after ever step you take you feel it. Imagine the same on your hand and then trying to hit a 90 mph fastball with that type of pain in your palms. Now for the squabble between the Generals, maybe it is what President Sherhotlz needs to make the change. AJ (maybe a change of scenery is what he needs, ST, MP to Texas for Ron Mahay a decent lefty on the mound, Mark Teixeira (although he is up for free agency this year also it gives us power at first as well as defense and Slammen Sammy Sosa which would give us pop off the bench as well as a decent outfielder. Slide WH or JF to CF for AJ and play MD in right or LF and let JS learn to play the outfield also. Yhat way he will be a very valuable utility man in the future. He can play C, FB, and OF.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 9:13 AM | Link to this

I have lost some respect for Smoltz. I believed he was a standup guy. This has been the depths of cowardice by Smoltz.

First, he clearly takes a shot at Chipper on Friday night. He does not do it like a man and say it to Chipper’s face. He says it to the media. He also does not go and directly call out Chipper. He uses some passive aggressive attack that sets up a plausible deniability defense later on should things go awry.

If Chipper never responds and plays well, Smoltz would have wanted to be the motivational champion for making those remarks. But Chipper called him out, so now Smoltz can pretend he did not mean it about Chipper.

Very wimpy by Smoltz to say that I did not say that about Chipper. That would be like Smoltz saying that the Homeboy Upstairs comment was not about Teflon John. Smoltz needs to man up and fess up to what he said and the meaning behind it. A man does not act the way he is acting right now.

Has anyone else stopped to think that maybe Chipper and many of his teammates find Smoltz and his mouth to be tiresome? That this issue might be alot deeper than just these comments alone. It could also be that Smoltz and many of his teammates have grown very tiresome of Chipper’s injuries and perceived lack of desire.

I don’t think everything has been so rosy between all of these Braves greats for all these years despite what we have been told. Go listen to the MIke and the Mad Dog interview on WFAN earlier this week. Glavine basically called out Smoltz for showing more focus in the postseason than he did in the regular season in that interview.

When asked why Smoltz was so great in the postseason, Glavine dismissed it as Smoltz being a power pitcher with “electric stuff”, there are “some guys that thrive on that (big moment) more than others”, “there are guys for whatever reason when they get in those (big) games, their adrenaline is there, their focus is there, they go out there and pitch the kind of games they are capable of pitching.” “i’ve seen guys that are big game pitchers who have tough times in other parts of the season.”

Maybe Smoltz needs to look in the mirror before he starts talking too boldly about how focused and ready to play he is. Clearly, Glavine seems to think Smoltz should have been a whole lot better than he was during the regular season.

HOW COME SMOLTZ DOES NOT CRY LIKE THIS WHEN CHIPPER IS NOT IN THE LINEUP FOR KYLE DAVIES? Smoltz only seems to cry like this when Smoltz himself is the pitcher without Chipper in the lineup, huh?

By Seeyouonthebench

June 24, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this

So you’re a Pull hitter Andruw, don’t see it workin for you. Get your head out of your $ss and start doing what TP has asked you to do. Time down in AAA, learning how to hit might be the best thing for you. Bobby Cox, Willie Harris should be your starting CF’R the rest of the season,this Kid can play!!!

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this

I’d take a dogfighter as a teammate any day over a teammate who publicly stabs another teammate in the back and then denies that he did it.

By 59bulldawg

June 24, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this

Stynes,

Here’s your second verse …

When I was just a baby my mama told me. Son, always be a Smoltz fan, don´t ever trust a third base man. But I pulled for that punk Chipper and watch the Braves just die now every time I think of that pennant I hang my head and cry

Who wants to do verse 3?

By Bubba3baseballhead

June 24, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

Just dar88%$m!!! Andrew has a trade stipulation agreement in his contract, he has to approve any trade and he already said he will play with the Braves this year. Chipper is prone to injuries now like Griffy Jr.

This team is rebuilding and we probably will not see this young team mature for another year. Chipper does has to decide if he wants to be a leader, since its hard for a pitcher to be a team leader. Smoltz should have made his comments private but things like this happens during a season so lets ge over it and Go Braves!!!!!!!!

By bobo

June 24, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

i don’t see how anyone is taking either side in this thing. in my mind they are clearly both wrong. they are just acting like the spoiled children they are and most star athletes are. bottom line, the braves aren’t contenders without either (if they are with them). i’m really curious to see how bobby handles the situation. i’m guessing we’ll never know and it’ll get handled behind the scenes as usual. here’s hoping DOB will get some scoop and pass it along. i’d also like to find out what he knows about chipper’s doc reports.

By Bob

June 24, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this

Braveheart,

If Glavine did that to those two on the FAN, then he is no better than what Smoltzie did. Glavine calling out Smoltz for doing it in the post season? His own words about some guys getting an adrenalin rush for a playoff game sounds more like an indictman of him than of John. The Braves didn’t seem to have any problems during those 14 straight regular seasons and did seem to have a problem in the post seasons.

Hmmmmm. I am pretty sure that Glavine and Smoltz are still best of friends. I imagine Mike and the Dog were trying to create a bit of an issue there. After all, like our lovable John Kincaid in Atlanta, they make their living off this type stuff.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this

I posted this earlier on the other blog but I wanted to make sure I catch up with MBATL wherever he and Mrs. Calabash are.

Well, it’s Sunday morning coming down and I am in the process of choosing my cleanest dirty shirt. And a night’s sleep coupled with some black coffee puts some bandaids on last night’s wounds.

MBATL Thank you for your reasoned and resonable response to my uncivil attack. That is not my “normal” MOD and I apologize for it. But, keep in mind that I am not backing down from my position—just the manner in which I stated it.

I have admitted on here before that I don’t know much about baseball, but I do know “warriors” and Smoltz is a warrior. He “brings it” whenever he can. He is practical, however, in that he knows that just being on the mound does the team no good if he is not somewhere near his 40 yr old best. The guy he called out was comtemplating going back on the DL but when jabbed in the a$$, came out and played a near-normal game. Sounds as if Smoltzie was right, IMO.

And let’s not ever forget Kurt Gibson.

By BRAVESFAN5114

June 24, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

Smoltz is just upset because Chipper gets more attention from the management than he does. Chipper is being smart by completely healing before playing, his career will last longer. I think that the players are too often ‘urged’ to play when hurt.

Anyone who thinks that Chipper is trying to get out of playing baseball is NUTS. He still loves the game after all of this time and there is a reason why he’s the team ‘leader’.

By 59bulldawg

June 24, 2007 9:39 AM | Link to this

Stynes,

Couldn’t stop myself. Here’s verse 3.

Well if they´d freed this team from Bobby, If that baseball team was mine, I wouldn’t run it as a deduction saving my nickels and my dimes I’d run it like I want to win, that’s what I would do, And Chipper would be gone, along with Andrew too!

Do you think I have shot at Nashville?

By Bob

June 24, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this

59bulldawg,

no

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this

Bob, Actually, Mike and the Mad Dog were not trying to stir anything up. They started with a discussion about Clemens not being a big game pitcher, saying that Clemens could not hold Smoltz’ jock in a big moment (which is very true).

Then they brought Glavine on for his weekly interview. They were heaping the praise on Smoltz and then asked Glavine why was Smoltz so dominant in the postseason whereas Maddux was not (they totally avoided saying you as well Glavine).

That’s when Glavine seemed to get defensive, tried to be diplomatic, but basically said that Smoltz has far more talent than either of us with his electric powerful stuff and that is why he was so dominant in the postseason.

I think the clear implication from what Glavine was saying was that Smoltz should have been better than us. Maddux and I kept the same level of focus through the regular season and postseason. The implication was clear that Smoltz’ regular season focus may have left something to be desired at times.

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

Sun’s up … time to go to bed!

This one’s long so drop a nickel in the bucket and close the door gently if you choose to leave.

It’s natural that we worry about the feud and festering sores affecting the team … and just as natural that we have strong feelings the situation.

I hope that we can do the unnatural for a change and not allow that to permeate and polarize the Blog.

Regardless of how you slice it, John’s going public seems inappropriate and Chipper following suit, while seemingly more understandable, is not the preferred approach for getting things resolved, We know nothing more than we’ve been told … and is what both parties, three if you include Bobby, is what they collectively want us to know!

We can safely assume that things have for some been simmering or festering and we do know there that are 5,456, 243 possible reasons for John’s going public which would be stronger provocation than Chipper’s going public in response!

That is, we simply just don’t know!

We do know that Chipper was goaded into playing and avowing perfect attendance … that we know. That may or may not be a good thing … but you can bet the ranch that neither want the other to suffer injury.

This is mostly about Chipper … rather my thoughts about what I perceive might be causing him problems, over and above his physical problems. Some of the rhetoric may be couched so as to humorously make a point … but nothing is intended to suggest that he should be held in contempt for being what he is … just better understood.

Some folks need to be more understanding of Larry … remember, he’s no Allan Lane even if he plays 21 and rides a horse.

No Larry, from the time he was very young … was a gifted star who always played on winning teams. It continued, and continued, and continued … he was truly blessed, this kid who never experienced a losing season.

Cursed might be a better word … and it’s a shame!

A few years back Larry was on what he thought was a losing team … he appeared to lose confidence in their ability to win, what with the injuries and the untried rookies and all … he had a horrible first half, with time on the DL too … but, the team surprised him and everybody else too! He changed his mind, regained his confidence in the team, his spirit too … had a great second half and Mama’s string remained unbroken.

Methinks what happened was that Chipper knew that he was looked upon for leadership and knew he couldn’t give it … not what they needed anyway, ‘cause it was all new ground to him too. You can’t lose what you never had but he didn’t have it, whatever it was, that the team truly needed … and he knew it.

It wasn’t his fault … when you’re always winning and things always turn out right, you don’t learn much … you just play and enjoy the moment, thinking it will never end.

You ain’t gonna read that in a book, not unless I write one … but that’s been my opine for quite some quite some time … like from back when the drama was actually being staged.

What Chipper knows about such things, he read in a book … saw it on TV, heard from his daddy or got from observing Bobby Cox. He’s pretty good hitting the ball, cheering them on and giving them tips! Actually, he’s a wonderful leader when he’s in the game.

The off season had to be an emotional struggle for Chipper, and for all the young kids … the streak had been broken, and on their watch too. With a bolstered bullpen and Kelly proving better than expected, Larry’s problems seemed a thing of the past, though his hitting and power were a little slow getting started, we knew that wouldn’t last.

When adversity set in and with Andruw a hindrance rather than a help, Chipper was again faced with the demons of leadership expectations … and again with the same result … same reason, only this time the inner doubts are reinforced by past failure.

Again, it’s not criticism … it’s just unfortunate! … and again, just my opine.

John and Chipper have both endured personal hardship and injuries, both are flawed, both are stars … both have big egos … both are competitors and both are products of their environments and their experiences both are on the same team. But, with all their sameness, they’re different folks, folks.

John’s travails are well documented.

While I question his wisdom in publicly calling Chipper out, and in spite of his other flaws, I personally think he responds well to adversity and seems adequately equipped to handle the burden of providing the leadership of the type that is needed … indeed he seems comfortable in the role where Chipper does not … again just a personal opine.

In baseball, “cheating” is part of the game, if you can get away with it … not big time breaking the rules cheating … but, you don’t help the umpire out when you know he missed a call, unless it’s to your advantage and you’ll ocassionally fudge a bit too, if it gives you an advantage to so do … Chipper knows baseball.

In golf, the game invented by Polonius, you’re honor bound to play by the rules, every damned one … and that means calling penalties on yourself, even if you’re the only one around … and if you’re unsure as to whether you broke the rule, you’re expected to ask … even if it means disqualification or losing $1 million or more, then so be it!

What’s that’s got with the price of tea? Think about it, it’s a different mentality. John comes from both diciplines, Larry from only one.

Both have made mistakes … but it’s not about finding fault … it’s about eliminating what ever is keeping the team from playing its best … not just when it’s easy, not when it’s close, but each and every play, each and every day!

Yes, they need meetings to get this thing resolved … but hopefully they won’t let this eruption hide the fact that what may appear to be a straight line sore connecting John and Larry is actually a festering triangle with Andruw sharing top billing … or possibly even a rectangle or polygon involving Bobby and/or other members of field management.

Andruw’s no leader, not of the type I’m talkin’ … forget his performance, sparkling in the field and horrible at the plate … but remember “I just try to do my best to help the team, any way I can” … it’s a good example to set … but, not the direction and leadership qualities of which I’m talkin’.

Let’s give it a break and quit taking sides … it’s their job to get it solved so we can enjoy the best baseball they can play!

Methinks all great men have one thing in common … they put their pants on one leg at at time, same as you and me! Forget that but remember this … it’s not what they have in common that makes them great.

Unless maybe it’s that they’re part of the same team …

By 59bulldawg

June 24, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this

Bob,

Well then I guess it’s back to the day job on Monday!

By Wendy

June 24, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this

It’s Kirk Gibson, and he lived on the DL near the end of his career. Looks like someone forgot him already.

By MBATL

June 24, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this

Paladin, ‘preciate that. (Not sure why you put me with Mrs. Calabash - I had to Google it to find out who she is… an interesting little story that I did not know… but anyway…)

As predicted, a “clarification” - I even got the spelling right this time! - by Smoltz. I think this will blow over. Hope so; it’s the best two players on the team, and my favorite Braves for a long time. Love him or hate him, Chipper can flat out hit the baseball.

DOB, others have pointed out that McCann has now played something like 11 straight games. That’s really unusual for a Cox team, no matter who our backup catcher is, and especially considering that he’s supposedly a little beat up.

Any reason Salty’s not getting a little more time behind the plate?

By Jeffisgoofingoff

June 24, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

The media (liberal or conservative) likes a fight and will do anything to taunt the players.

By Josh C

June 24, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

Since somebody mentioned the T-shirt, what would the regular denizens think of being branded an underground club known as… the DOBermans? I’m prepared for well-earned ridicule…

By dawgh8er

June 24, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this

Chipper is such a p***. I think we should keep the Escobar kid at third, and trade Chipper to an American League team. Chipper has been on the DL for a few straight years now, and I think it’s time to cut him loose. Good job Smoltzie for calling him out if that is in fact what you were trying to do. Maybe someone should call Andruw out as well!!!

By tpm

June 24, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this

Chipper and Smoltz appear to be primadonnas who don’t have the balls to talk to each other. Their behavior is very juvenile.

Maybe this will light a fire on this team. Guys don’t have to like each other ( I can’t stand half the schmucks I work with). But they do need to respect their teammates.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this

It’s a new day y’all. There will be no fight in the locker room. There will be no Pay Per View Telecast, nor will it be on In Demand. The team will not be stripped down and go into rebuilding mode. Chipper, Smoltz,Hudson and Andruw will not be traded. Edgar, who has been little short of dynamic will not be shopped. Bobby Cox will not be fired, nor will John Schuerholz (remember, they were an integral part of Liberty buying the team-continuity in management). Scoots called it right. You missed an excellent start by Kyle Davies against perhaps the most dominant offense in baseball by indulging in this hypothetical nonsense. The team will not continue this slump indefinitely. We are still within shouting distance of the division lead. The earth still turns on it’s axis. Global Warming is still real or not, depending on your point of view and there has been no indication that the world will end in the foreseeable future (not even using the Mayan calendar). There’s still a lot of baseball left to play and y’all will only have heart attacks or strokes if you continue freaking out-it just isn’t good for your health. Get off your collective behinds and go play golf. That’s probably what Chipper and Smoltz will do.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this

Despite my anti Smoltz rant, does anyone else think that Smoltz may be using Chipper as a pawn in a game Smoltz is playing trying to deflect all the glaring attention that was mounting on top of McCann, Frenchy, Druw, and Thorman? Chipper may have no clue that Smoltz is using him for that reason. But it seems to be working. Let’s hope the nuclear fallout does not kill the whole clubhouse.

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this

Methinks you having me on … ‘Tis the top of the morning to you, esteemed Scoots, mon ami.

Is it so hard to believe that two outstanding players with a much longer relationship in a much more stressful environment should be able to do the same? alright, wordsmith supreme, there’s no get logical too!

Like the esteemed journalist from Cordele, Uganda might say … joking, right?

I bow to the master for I know not of such things … everyone listens to you, and just laughs at me … yours is a heavy responsibility, so tell everybody to be nice, go to church, then home for some puddin’ and cream … You’ll call and them when the fuedin’ over and tell everybody all about it!

In the meantime, just pretend to agree with me so folks don’t get mad!

By Daxxed

June 24, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this

OK now AJ is batting 7th next is 8th. Obviously a batting position change is not the answer. Send him to the minors, since he want allow a trade he cant stop drop. A drop to the Minors that is. Somewhere where he can learn the disciplin of hitting to every field and not trying to pull every pitch and even learn to bunt. Maybe that will be a wake up call to him. But he does not need to be in the everyday liine up when there are others that are capable of replacing him not playing everyday. He had his run and has become such a primadonna that he thinks he want be benched. So don’t bench him but send him down. But is see AJ as the next of a list of ex Braves that have left Atlanta only to be out of baseball a few years later.

By jojo

June 24, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

Chipper(DL)Jones just needs to shut up and play. Every time he does something awkward on the field he is on the DL. The standard should be would Cal Ripken play. Cal played hurt and it didn’t cut is career short.

Smoltz was right to call out Chipper, he should have years ago.

40 yr old Smoltz pitching with sore shoulder, McCann playing with a bad ankle, Andruw playing hard (and badly) with a sore back. While Chipper sits first with sore thumbs and now a pulled muscle.

Problem is we are stuck with Chipper not much market for declining third basemen with no heart. No one will pay his salary knowing he will miss at least 30-40 games a year.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this

Josh C., DOBermans, don’t see that happening. The Bermans part is very disturbing. Would we have to be overweight, with terrible hair, terrible clothes, and saying back! back! back!, he could go all the way, and nobody circles the wagons like the Buffalo Bills? I just don’t see that one happening. BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! good try though.

By Just wondering

June 24, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

When Mark McGuire and Jason Giambi were consistently getting injured the sportswriters’ consensus was that it was because they were on the juice and their bodies were breaking down.

Chipper cannot get through 2 months without going on the DL and all we hear is that it is tough luck.

Seems to me that there is a double standard here - either there was no justification for attributing the Gimabi/McGuire injuries to steroid use or someone should start asking why Chipper has become so injury prone to so many areas of his body.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Braveheart-Re: your 10:11 post. No.

By Tuck

June 24, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

The Braves were playing great and were in first and low and behold who gets hurt, Chipper. Every year he gets hurt and misses about 50 games. Tell him to pro rate his salary for 110 games a year and see if he plays more. Come on you went on the DL for brusied hands! Smoltz has played with injuries for years and is frustrated that Chipper can’t hit with bruised hands. I say trade Chipper, trade Andrew and let Salty play every day at 1st and Yunel play 3rd. We need two more pitchers and we can get them for Chipper and Andrew. Put Frenchy in center and play Willie and Diaz every day. JS do something with this team!

By lenny

June 24, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

Smoltzie has always been a gamer. Chipper has earned a new nickname the last few years-Peanut Brittle. As for Androop Jones the Braves will be a better team without his sorry fat butt-he still doesn’t understand the strike zone.

By Nunna Yo Biznezz

June 24, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this

If Smoltz would have been a brother he would have been ran out of town!!

Smoltz is supposed to be a leader,and yet he talks too much and he should have just kept his comments on himself and his situation!!

Im just glad it was not Mike Vick talking about Matt Schaub(if he were here),or Keith Brooking..Anytime u are black and get on a team mate or another white player he is perceived to be arrogant or a THUG!!!!

The Braves suck anyway,and Bobby Cox needs “Anger Management Lessons”!!!!

I said it!!!

By Steve

June 24, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

Shut the hell up, Chipper! If you’re too old to play anymore, then quit!

By Lew

June 24, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

Yeah-Chipper damn near falls down with pain on one swing and the next he puts the ball in the seats. Yeah, right. The guy just dogs it. Y’all are a bunch of baggers. There’s damn little doubt about that.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this

Braveheart-You got a problem with overweight guys with bad hair? What, are you Joe Stud or something? The Back, Back, Back thing is weird, for sure, just like the nickname deal, but lots of us are overweight with bad hair. It doesn’t make us a bagger like Berman.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

To the “lady” who pointed out tha Kurt Gibson “lived” on the DL near the end, yes, but when the chips were down—he was up(to it).

In the Corps we had a saying: Lead, follow, or get out of the way. Chipper needs to make a choice.

By cursive

June 24, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

Chipper should stop being a baby, but you idiots calling him “washed up, etc.” need to look again. When he is in the lineup he is one of the only guys on the team that can hit. That is undeniable. Trading him away would be tantamount to giving away about 1/3 of our current offensive production.

By Rudy Napier

June 24, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

I think it is time for Chipper to grow up Look at some of the players on the braves who play hurt Chipper never plays enough games in the last 4 years. He should give back sohe money he has been payed to play Andruw plays hurt almost everyday and over the years has given the Braves there money back in playing time. I dont blame smoltz he plays hard and hurt Grow up chipper

By discomastergg

June 24, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

this is a team that for fourteen years was used to being on top. doesn’t look like the reality that they’re a second place team is being taken well.

By Fred Secunda

June 24, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Is it just me, or does anyone think maybe Smoltzie had a point when expressing frustrations about Chipper. I mean, had he not called him out, Chipper would have sit yesterday’s game. As it turns out, he was well enough to hit a homerun off Verlander. Chipper has turned into the tin man and I’m glad Smoltz called him out.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

Lew, relax. Way too defensive about the overweight thing. Never realized how vain you were.

By Don

June 24, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Congratulations Neutral Observer, you have wandered into a zone of idiocy previously occupied only by the Cox-obsessed psycho. You should be proud.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

And, ma’am, if you start correcting every little letter left out, or mis-typed, you are going to wear your little fingers and keyboard out.

Now, ride your bike on out to Agnes Scott. The field hockey game is about to start.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

When Chipper walks into the locker room today, do you think it would ease the tension if Smoltz went all Carly Simon on Chipper, and started singing:

You’re so vain, I’ll bet you think this comment is about you, Don’t you? Don’t you?

By bobo

June 24, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

lew, i guess i need to read a little closer. i thought braveheart was being complimentary with his comments about fat guys with bad hair.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

Braveheart-Not vain. Overweight and tired of flippin hearing about it. It is not a criterion for ridicule. Do you need enforcing?

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

I warned that it was long and not well written … I don’t think many of my errors will inhibit understanding of my blithering but I do see where an entire line was dropped … as I saved a copy made just before posting, just in case the submission failed.

That is, “… and just as natural that we have strong feelings about the players involved, their relevance to our current struggles and their role in provoking the situation”.

I ask not that anyone agree but do hope there are some points worthy of consideration.

By Bill

June 24, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

Report out of Chicago is that Buerhle is probably going to be traded to the Red Sox’s. The Braves don’t need to throw away prospects for him. He would not make the difference. They have several problems.

By a monti

June 24, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

I feel Ted Turner watching, wishing it was his, Chipper Jones was Larry and the sailboat docked again,

Chipper hurt while runnin, the low life SOB, he can’t walk and chew gum without fa..king up his knee. He tripped on first base last week, then on third again, Chipper feeling no pain, telling Smoltz what for.

When I was just a baby my mama told me. Son, always be like Chipper and dont ever carry guns. Try to be a role model, but dont sleep with any hos, get back in the lineup and knock it out the door.

Well if they´d freed this team from Bobby, If that baseball team was mine, I would trade that stupid Chipper somewhere down the line.

Andrew Jones would be next, how much older can they get, the problem is they dont care anymore , riding in Leer jets.

So when you see Chipper step up to the plate, let out a hardy boo, tell him that you hate him , and you hate Andrew too.

Chipper hits a home run , and knocks me out of bed, too bad he hurt his groin again, and fell right on his head.

I went downstairs to breakfast and had a cup of tea, it made me thing of World Series , and I said oh whoa is me. The Atlanta Braves aint winning, it looks like its all Mets, Chipper and his ego need to retire. What is he 45 now.

I wouldn’t run it as a deduction saving my nickels and my dimes I’d run it like I want to win, that’s what I would do, And Chipper would be gone, along with Andrew too!

By Lew

June 24, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

Cursive-For the past four games, Chipper is our ONLY offensive production.

By ncscoots

June 24, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

think it would ease the tension if Smoltz went all Carly Simon on Chipper

It would certainly ease MY tension in that situation. I’d feel much better right after I rearranged his face.

By Kathy

June 24, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

Chipper is a grown man who has been in the bigs 10+ years, and he’s feeling pressured to play??? Um, if you are truly hurt, don’t play. I understand Smoltz plays every 5th day, and when he does, he gives 110%. Playing day in and day out exposes the nagging little (?) injuries a bit more, I think. Smoltzie & Chipper will work through this, hopefully the Braves don’t sink in the meantime!

By Lew

June 24, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

Bobo-Read closer.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

Lew, as for players, being overweight is a very warranted criticism. being overweight causes mechanical problems, a lack of consistency, lack of stamina, and injuries. athletes who take their craft seriously should not be overweight. joe schmoes like us can weigh 300 pounds if we like, but young athletes who have problems sticking in the majors, who are inconsistent, always injured, need to be called out on their lack of dedication.

By Eric

June 24, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

Thank you Smoltz for calling Chipper the slacker he is. True leadership begins with the truth. The media has been sheltering Chipper for years.

By Ron

June 24, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

I think they need to have a fist fight on TV like Zambrano and Barrett did for the Cubs. Maybe that will be the fire somebody needs to light under this team’s butt.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist You write out and think about what you are going to post? No fair!

By Lew

June 24, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this

Just wondering-Look at the physiques of Giambi and McGwire. Then compare them to Chipper’s body type. There is zero comparison. Chipper is not now nor has he ever been bulked up. You can usually tell with the biceps. Chipper’s are long and lean-the other two had Popeye arms, much more rounded. You can usually tell. There is a difference to the muscular shape when doing roids.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Braveheart-Dude, I don’t want to have to be the Enforcer, here, but you were talking about Chris Berman, not Wicky or Paronto. Let’s just drop it before someone really starts getting p!$$ed.

By Keith

June 24, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

Are you kiddin me? Chipper is hurt over 1/3 of the time for the last 3 years, his salary is unaffected, the Braves don’t have his bat in the lineup for which they’re (actually, the fans are) paying God knows how much - and he has the audacity to say something back to Smoltz?

Suck it up, Chipper. Smoltz is right. If you can’t stay healthy, you need to take your rear-end elsewhere - or else the fans need to be refunded some of the ticket price. After all, they are the ones that feel screwed because you never seem to be in the lineup. What kind of crap is that?

The fans SHOULD be getting tired of paying high-priced whiners to sit on the bench. If the Braves weren’t paying Hampton $14.5 million this year, maybe they could afford to compete with the Mets.

I get so tired of the commentators making excuses for ball players. Hell, we go to work when we’re hurt. Why can’t the folks making millions a year?

Get over it Chipper. Smoltz is right.

Smoltz needs to start in on Andruw next. He don’t have a clue at the plate.

By Keith

June 24, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Are you kiddin me? Chipper is hurt over 1/3 of the time for the last 3 years, his salary is unaffected, the Braves don’t have his bat in the lineup for which they’re (actually, the fans are) paying God knows how much - and he has the audacity to say something back to Smoltz?

Suck it up, Chipper. Smoltz is right. If you can’t stay healthy, you need to take your rear-end elsewhere - or else the fans need to be refunded some of the ticket price. After all, they are the ones that feel screwed because you never seem to be in the lineup. What kind of crap is that?

The fans SHOULD be getting tired of paying high-priced whiners to sit on the bench. If the Braves weren’t paying Hampton $14.5 million this year, maybe they could afford to compete with the Mets.

I get so tired of the commentators making excuses for ball players. Hell, we go to work when we’re hurt. Why can’t the folks making millions a year?

Get over it Chipper. Smoltz is right.

Smoltz needs to start in on Andruw next. He don’t have a clue at the plate.

By Keith

June 24, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Are you kiddin me? Chipper is hurt over 1/3 of the time for the last 3 years, his salary is unaffected, the Braves don’t have his bat in the lineup for which they’re (actually, the fans are) paying God knows how much - and he has the audacity to say something back to Smoltz?

Suck it up, Chipper. Smoltz is right. If you can’t stay healthy, you need to take your rear-end elsewhere - or else the fans need to be refunded some of the ticket price. After all, they are the ones that feel screwed because you never seem to be in the lineup. What kind of crap is that?

The fans SHOULD be getting tired of paying high-priced whiners to sit on the bench. If the Braves weren’t paying Hampton $14.5 million this year, maybe they could afford to compete with the Mets.

I get so tired of the commentators making excuses for ball players. Hell, we go to work when we’re hurt. Why can’t the folks making millions a year?

Get over it Chipper. Smoltz is right.

Smoltz needs to start in on Andruw next. He don’t have a clue at the plate.

By garrett

June 24, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

Technically Smoltz didn’t call out anyone, but it tells us a lot that that’s the way Chipper heard it. There’s no doubt who the class act and who the d-bag is here. Chipper is a dim bulb, not to mention soft.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

Braveheart or Lew, Can I hold your coat while you and him fight?

By Keith

June 24, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Screw the feud. Trade Andruw and Chipper and Hampton (if you could find a sucker team to take him).

By ncscoots

June 24, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

From the content of the posts, most of the bloggers here wouldn’t know leadership if it booked a room in their hip pocket and bit them on the a$$. Maybe Barnes and Noble can run a sale on “Leadership For Dummies” this month to help out.

By garrett

June 24, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

LOL @ someone suggesting Chipper is a future hall of famer. Give me a break.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

Paladin-You, of course, are seeing the point I’m trying to make. Fighting over stupid crap, whether between teammates or blogmates is a useless and pointless exercise in futility. How much you want to bet that this whole fiasco is over before today’s game-probably settled over a round of golf. Usually any statement can be read into in different ways by everyone. Real adults don’t let it get to that point just to make sure the onlookers get their share of vicarious thrills.

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

Scoots, I see that one line of what I responded to you was nonsensical … maybe all of it … but, what got from brain to keyboard was flawed … I was just trying to convey that it was very unfair for you to be logical in order to make your point.

Just Wondering

I thought I heard McGuire admit to so using when questioned by the Senate sub-committee … I know it was my third ear and all but, I remember being shocked and thinking what an embarrassment be was to baseball and how his image was tarnished for ever.

Maybe it was a different Mark McGuire, but methinks not.

I don’t see how accepting McGuire’s words … or Giambi’s for that matter has anything to do with Chipper … has he indicated that he takes steroids?

If he has and we ignore it, then I would agree that it’s effecting a double standard. I may have missed his so doing, bur again, methinks not.

By Billy Walsh

June 24, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Reminds me of all the times I had arguments with the suit (i.e. short little man named “E”). If we could work together in the jungles of Colombia then I am sure that Smoltz and Chipper can work things out. You dont want the suit in the front office to get involved. The Chicago Sun Times is reporting that Buehrle will be dealt in the next few weeks. I always thought that Vinnie would of made the a stellar Joey Ramone. Maybe we can revive that project as well.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

Dear Braves,

For my birthday, A WIN would be great! (If you can’t pull that one off, a gift card from Wal-Mart will do).

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

NCSCOOTS And where should we send your copy, sir?

By Ron Roberts

June 24, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

So DO’B posts last night and sayd Smoltzie called him to try and clarify that his post-game statements Friday weren’t aimed at Chipper.

You know what? I believe him. I only wish there was video of this questioning he dealt with. For instance, I’m wondering if Smoltz was just blowing off a Chipper-injury-related question by just giving props to the guys that were playing Friday night and not using Chipper’s absence as an excuse. When you read what Smoltz said without all the school yard ooooooh, he’s calling out Chipper talk in the background, you might not even consider he was talking about Chipper so much as he was giving credit to the guys that were out there.

I almost think this controversy had a life of its own from this very blog. I mean, DO’B is it possible that Smoltz, in his call to you last night, was telling the truth? That maybe those comments he made to the assembled media personnel Friday night post-game just took his words and applied them to Chipper on their own?

I’m not saying you did it; hell, you just brought the words to us and we ran off with them thinking “Smoltz and Chipper are having a hissy fit!!!”

I think the proper thing Smoltz should have said Friday night was “we can’t make excuses because key guys are hurt; every team has key guys get hurt and they have to sometimes play and win without them. We have to learn to play and win without one or more of our key guys, from time-to-time, and the guys that go out there give their best when we’re short-handed.”

That being said, I read DO’B’s late-night post about Smoltz calling him and though to myself, “I could believe that.” I wasn’t there, however, to read into what Smoltz said to be able ti infer anything, so some insight, DO’B would be nice, if you would, sir. Thanks for the updates, too.

By N8

June 24, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Braveheart

The “theory” of your 10:11 post brings up, while ridiculous and over the top, a valid question.

I doubt it to be true, but the thought crossed my mind as well last night.

The two veterans (who both have “missed time” this season), yet have been the most consistant when they played, decide to stage a “fight” to bring ALL of the media hype surrouning tonights ESPN game, to their fake rift.

Silly, over the top, far fetched, probably not true? More than likely.

Impossible to know? Yup.

Whether that was their plan or not, it seems to be doing just that. Can’t click on ANY national sports web page and go to the MLB section, without seeing that headline 3rd or 4th from the top on every list.

Now if Renteria, Wickman and Soriano get involved, then we know it’s a conspiracy of the “good” players, helping out there shipmates.

In reality, it being a REAL fight, is a much more entertaining story.

Either way, at least SOMEBODY is showing signs of life on this team. For a week or two there, I thought they were all dead.

Maybe if we’re lucky, there will be a bench clearing brawl, only it won’t involve the other team, just ours. :-)

By Gene

June 24, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

The Braves would be better off is Chipper were a designated hitter in the AL. I am tired of his lollygagging.

By tracman

June 24, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

Chipper a future Hall-of-Famer? Give me a break. Hall of Fame players don’t miss the amount of games on a yearly basis that this prima-donna does. Either he needs a better Conditioning program, or he needs to toughen up. Smoltz is right on the money. Smoltzie has given the team everything he’s got, became a closer for the team’s sake, pitched through pain. I admire his heart. Bobby Cox and John Schuerholz need to get this team back on track. Andruw is done here, trade him for whatever you can get. This team won’t make the playoffs, they won’t catch the Mets and there are better teams in the West for the Wild-Card. Start planning for 2008.

By flange1

June 24, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

Holy Cornelia! What a wild couple of days. I think it is time for a players only meeting to clear the air.

I think Scoots got it right a bit earlier, Smoltz is not the perfect leader we think he is.

The Braves need to calm down and get back to basics. They got a great performance yesterday from Davies. He really gave up only 1 run, the play at the plate was called wrong by the ump.

The Braves are getting no breaks right now. These things happen during the season, there are high and low points for every team. The Braves are in a low point right now.

Lew is right, go play golf and drink a beer, things will get better tomorrow!

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Bob,journalist

I don’t think McGuire ever actually admitted to using steroids, just when questioned, he said “it’s time to put the past behind” I know, and O.J. never actually got convicted

Paladin,

Hey, we in the Nav just want to know when you’re going to pay the fare for hauling you guys around (M.A.R.I.N.E.S)

By ncscoots

June 24, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Bob, roger that, I can always read between the typos, anyway, LOL, I know how your mind works!

By Fastfoodfreak

June 24, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Just kidding, Paladin

By GSU Eagle

June 24, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Smoltz needs to shut up. If he had something to say to/about Chipper, he should have done it in private. As much as Smoltz has been hurt in his career, he has no room to talk. Stick a fork in the Braves, they’re done.

By Robert

June 24, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

“Wrong. No pitcher, and I mean NO pitcher, has the cred to call out an everyday player”

And you know what? If Chipper WERE an every day player, none of this woulda happened.

By N8

June 24, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Lew

“Chipper is not now nor has he ever been bulked up. You can usually tell with the biceps.”

Lew, my man. I have to disagree with you on this one. I specifically remember Chipper talking about putting on “X” ammount of weight (all muscle) the off season before winning his 1 and only MVP. If I remember right it was around 20-25 pounds. Coincidentally, he blasts 45 HR that year?

Hate to say it man, but since this whole steroids nonsense has come to the forefront, I have ALWAYS thought that Chip “juiced” that year, but noboby wants to hear it on these blogs.

Now I very well could be wrong (and I hope I am), but unfortunately, we have to question EVERY fluke-like season, in the last 20 years or so.

Brady Anderson? Luis Gonzalez? Like I said, I hope I’m wrong, but I don’t think I am.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

flange1 You didn’t haul me around any, buddy—I was doin’ the hauling. And, in the process, I saved your bacon a bunch of times. Bill to follow.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

Y’all do realize that if a team is so entirely dependent on one person’s presence in the lineup, that the lineup is inherently flawed to begin with? Championship teams have players step up to cover their teammates problems-be they injuries or slumps. When we won a couple years ago, even with 18 rookies, Andruw stepped up and became a World Beater. Francoeur came in and kicked rookie a$$. Where’s the alternative production now? Seems to me that the problem isn’t Chipper and his absences, it’s that no one else has stepped up and carried the team-not even for a couple of days. I’d give McCann and Chipper a break. They have been hurt and still try their best on a daily basis, despite what some of the Baggers here might think. Thorman busts his a$$ on EVERY play. What’s happened to everyone else? Francoeur’s drop in production may be attributed to his pressing, trying to compensate for Andruw’s disappearance. If you really want the reason for this team’s disarray, it all falls at the feet of Andruw Jones and his now non-existent bat. Like I’ve said before-Andruw has as many hits this week as the DRays pitching staff-maybe less since they’re playing NL teams and are actually batting. Hell, He has as many hits as Willie Aybar and Willie hasn’t even played.

By ncscoots

June 24, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

Paladin, for a Huey driver who couldn’t spell “Huey”, I doubt you could write the address properly. But never fear, I understand there’s a copy being used as the USMC Manual of Operations.

By MBATL

June 24, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

from MLBTR:

According to Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the Pirates have inquired regarding the availability of Braves catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia.

Kovacevic says the Braves want frontline pitching for Salty (ie, Mark Buehrle). This makes a deal unlikely for the Bucs. What would John Schuerholz want from the Pirates? I can’t see how it would get done without Ian Snell or Tom Gorzelanny included. A trade of either would be shocking. Kovacevic mentions that multiple teams have an eye on Zach Duke, but he’s not comparable to the aforementioned pair.

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

Before shutting down, I just want to make one thing perfectly clear … the honorable Scoot’s point regarding it being a reasonable expectation that the feuding parties should be able to get along is one which I totally agree.

In fact, you’ve got about 25 young men with a vested interest in everyone on the team getting along and working together … they’re all in the same boat … some may be freshmen and others upperclassmen … but they’re mates all the same.

What I can’t understand is …

We want to think the best of them all, they’re our team, for goodness sake … but, we’ll choose up sides and defend our particular heroes, come Hell or high water, based on appearances only, without benefit of any solid facts.

By willie

June 24, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Bobby Cox’s ‘laissez faire’ management style is great up to a point;and that point has been breached. Its time for Bobby to step and make sure this little tift twixt Smoltz and Chipper is settled right now, quick, and in a hurry. The team is floundering and appears to be lacking from leadership. A manager does more than just make up line up cards.

By Kentavo

June 24, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

There’s no way this is the end of it: tonight’s game is on ESPN and they are gonna lead with it, talk about it, talk about it, harp on it, talk about it some more, show graphics of both players quotes, compare stats of DL stints of both players, show old footage of Chip and Smoltzie embracing each other in ‘95, they’ll compare it to the Zambrano-Barrett flap, they’ll talk about it some more, they’ll interview Smoltz during the game since he isn’t pitching, Smoltz will deny that he was talking about Chipper, Smoltz will say it’s blown out of proportion, then Joe Morgan and John Fat-azzwhateverhisname is will talk about it some more, then by the fifth inning they will actually do some play-by-play, at which point it will be 6-0 Tigers.

By flange1

June 24, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Sorry Paladin, that one is over my head! I’ve no clue what you are talking about.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

flange1 Sorry about that. the post should have been addressed to fastfoodfreak No wonder you like that fried vomit that they serve in “fast food” establishments after that s@#t they served you in the Navy(the most undiciplined rabble that ever wore a uniform). Strong message to follow.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Paladin, tell Lew to keep his coat on. He doesn’t want his blubber flapping all around for all to see when I start beating on him. That old man don’t have a prayer of taking me. Bring it on, Lew, bring it on. You ready to eat a knuckle sandwich? I’m gonna beat Lew with his own cane. And it will be a silly fight. All because you are so vain, you think every comment about an overweight athlete or television personality is about you. LOL! ;-)

By Lew

June 24, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

Nathan-I’m sorry Dude-You have to look at the musculature. I’m an artist and have dealt with human anatomy for years, as well as doing literally hundreds of baseball and football portraits. I have worked pretty damned closely with pro athletes, and have done so for over 35 years. I have been in pro locker rooms. YOu can tell by the shape of muscles. I would be highly surprised if Chipper ever used roids. Sorry, Dude, I got to totally disagree with you on this one. You canlook at pictures of Giambi, Bonds and McGuire when they came up and compare them to later years. Their body types and weight distribution changed radically. Chipper’s never did. He has exactly the same body type he did when he broke in. Chipper only had one season when he seemingly went wild-his MVP year. Even so, his performance that season was not radically better than any of his other 8 straight with over 100 RBI. He hit a few more HR’s-that;s all. He didn’t have a Brady Anderson or Brett Boone type year-considerably greater than anything they had posted before or after. Chipper was as steady as could be. He still is, despite his injury problems. Nope, nothing whatsoever in Chipper’s looks or performance, except for his injuries, idicates any steroid use.

By Zac

June 24, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

June is stupid.

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

Paladin, it strikes me that you may have taken my last post to you, gestern Abend, to somehow be negative … I don’t so think but should that be the case, please know that the intent was quite the opposite!

-30-, Selah, Say Goodnight Gracie, and Elvis has left the building!

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

Someone in the lockerroom start cueing up Guns N Roses, I have a feeling Lew is about to sucker punch me.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

Braveheart-I’ll meet you on the golf course, Dude. Never played, but why not try it anyway?

By Robert

June 24, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

Whatever happens in the Braves clubhouse, passions have been fueled here on the blog for sure.

Unfortunately, the high emotions have caused some folks to either lose their powers of judgement or to lose the discipline to properly research their facts.

Greg Maddux, at 11-14 is in fact sub-.500 in the post-season. And his ERA of 3.34, while nothing to sneeze at, is measurably worse than his career regular season mark of 3.08

Tom Glavine too, is under-.500 in the postseason, at 14-16, but note that his playoff ERA that is ever so slightly BETTER than his regular season work. (3.42 vs 3.48)

Smoltz’s playoff marks of 15-4 and 2.65 are both significantly better than his regular season numbers

A pitcher’s won-loss record can be deceiving, however. When you consider that playoff teams are better than the average team, it wouldnt be unexpected to see pitchers fare worse against a playoff lineup than against the average regular season team.

Given that, it becomes fair to say that all 3 of the big boys have pitched, on the whole in the playoffs, as well, or better, as they have in the regular season.

The thing is - the kind of play that wins you two out of three games from April thru September might not break you even against the best of the best in the playoffs.

Smoltz’s huge playoff rep should come not from the won-loss record, because a lot of things outside the pitcher’s control can affect that for better or for worse, but from that 2.65 ERA

By Lew

June 24, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

Braveheart-Besides, I’ve lost 45 pounds since the first of the year from working out and eating well. I’m in pretty fair shape now, you might want to avoid fighting with me. Been pumping iron, too. No roids, though.

By N8

June 24, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

Fair enough, Lew. But what about a guy like Guillermo Mota? Guy is what, 6’6” and 210? Chipper is 6’4” 210. I’d be curious as to what his “weight” was in 1999.

Surely not the “physique” of a guy on roids, but low and behold….

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

NCSCOOTS The aircraft is an HU-1e, and those of us who tested it—and named it (at Pax River), know how it should be spelled. But, the army and their chief biographer, Francis Ford Copalla, bastardized the spelling into what is “popular” today. But, don’t try to get me into your little circle, jerk.

By toga

June 24, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

seems to me Jones is taking it to mean him because he knows in his heart it should be.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Golf course, huh? Are you admitting that you need to use a golf club as a weapon to defeat me?

Good luck golfing Lew! Never been either. Wish I was out there with you learning.

Luis Gonzalez was on steroids without a doubt and he was skinnier than an Ethiopian.

By TommyB

June 24, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Sugar Bear

From your post last night: “I’m terrified Schuerholz will get desparate and trade off Escobar & Salty for some washed-up pitchers, in order to get back into the post-season and get our asses kicked again.

Unload Chipper & Andruw and use that money to retool the pitching staff.”

I agree with you on both points. I take heart (somewhat) in what McGuirk said in an interview a month or so ago in which he allayed those fears saying essentially, they (Braves) don’t do that anymore (and explaining the rationale). So, let’s hope that bears out.

On your second point, it would have seemed to have zero possibility at the beginning of the season. Or even last week.

But now, with (almost) 3 months of a terrible slump and just now hitting below the Mendoza line, Boras might just see the potential value in having Andruw get a change of scenery in the hopes of bringing his value back up prior to the inevitable Let’s Make A Deal after this season.

And… given the events of the past 36 hours, one can envision a scenario wherein Chipper might entertain a change of scenery (especially to the AL where he could DH as has often been speculated here and otherwise), too.

Maybe both Chipper and Andruw could see how it could not only benefit them, but help the Braves.

By PhillyGirl

June 24, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

You good folks are getting a taste of what goes on in our clubhouse every frickin’ year. At least your coach hasn’t gotten into a fight with a reporter.

Maybe Mr. O’Brien could call out Bobby just to make this mid-season collapse complete.

As an outside observer (who follows the Braves only because she is dating a fan), you guys have experienced SIGNIFICANT drop-offs in offensive production at several positions. Obviously CF has been the worst, but also at 1B and C.

You have slight increases in production at SS and 2B, but not nearly enough to make up for the poor performers.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

How do the guys on 790 right now have jobs in sports broadcasting? They are god awful. The most uninformed, unintelligent opinions. If 680 would ever turn off the ESPN crap and put on some local talk, I would switch stations right now.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Nathan-Dude, I’ve seen Chipper face to face almost every year at Spring Training for years, except for this past spring. I assure you, standing a foot away from him (yes JJS, he DOES sign autographs), there has been no appreciable change in his size. No acne. No short stiff hairs sticking out of his neck like I’ve seen in people I know for a fact were doing steroids (I had a friend that bulked up in a month using them). There are definite tell-tale signs and Chipper exhibited none of them. I tell you, the shape of the biceps can be a dead giveaway. Chipper’s just getting older and unfortunately, the body goes when you get up there-some quicker than others. I think it was Shaun that pointed out how many athletes faded after 33 or so. The list is long and extensive. I’ve never heard of anything lionking Chipper to roids, either, except with some here on the blog. But that actually makes sense. We have some real BOzos here at times.

By Roberyt

June 24, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Braveheart - dude, I cant believe what I just read under your name

John Smoltz has a history of playing thru pain that very few players of the past 50 years can match.

Chumper Jones, on the other hand, despite being a supposed leader on this team, needed to feel backed into a corner before he stopped whining about how unfair the schedule was and grudgingly decided that maybe he should be an everyday player.

And then he showed us that he was too hurt to be able to hit well - NOT!

Smoltz, with his 2.65 career playoff ERA, can stand up and be proud of his contribution to Braves playoff efforts of the past

If it did come to blows between the two, then tho Chipper might be younger and stronger, Smoltz would find a way to cream him, aided by the fact that Chipper would be crying if he broke a nail while trying to pull Smoltzie’s hair

You know what I’d love to hear tonight? A chorus of boos for Andruw, and chants of “Larry, Larry” (that is, IF Chumper decides it suits his mood to play)

The Jones boys drama has gotten very old, very fast. Hanging on to the idea that we cant win without them is also getting old. You know what, we are just gonna have to figure out a way without them - cuz bottom line,except for 1995 when Chipper was a kid following the vets, we aint never won anything significant WITH either of them

Chipper is a HOF hitter - and the biggest zero as a leader that has set foot in a dugout in a generation

Andruw, while a decent player who had some All-Star seasons and who was, for a while, a center fielder comparable to any of the all-time greats, also can be ranked as one of the biggest busts in big league history

Brad Komminsk achieved a much higher percentage of his maximal potential than Andruw Jones ever did

By Braves20

June 24, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

This is scary. Smoltz-Chipper. Andruw and Thorman’s AAA batting averages. Bloggers in p*ssing contests. (Flew in those choppers too and really didn’t give a damn how it was spelled just as long as it got me back home at night). And one more I’ll add to the pile. Only the Cubs and the Giants have a worse record over the past ten games - and they both suck! Time for Bobby and home boy to work a little magic - if they can.

By bravesfan

June 24, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

Here’s this of MLB Trade Rumors.com Pirates Inquire On Saltalamacchia

According to Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the Pirates have inquired regarding the availability of Braves catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia.

Kovacevic says the Braves want frontline pitching for Salty (ie, Mark Buehrle). This makes a deal unlikely for the Bucs. What would John Schuerholz want from the Pirates? I can’t see how it would get done without Ian Snell or Tom Gorzelanny included. A trade of either would be shocking. Kovacevic mentions that multiple teams have an eye on Zach Duke, but he’s not comparable to the aforementioned pair.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

Keep it up Braveheart and Lew is goin’ to stick that golf club where the sun never shines.

By Ron jeremy

June 24, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

HOOTERS HOOTERS HOOTERS HOOTERS…CHEETAH CHEETAH CHEETAH

By Lew

June 24, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

I just did a bit of research. Mota had an ERA of 1.00 with the Mets last year. Hhe has an ERA over 6 with the Indians before coming to the Mets in the middle of last season. He never had an ERA of under 2.14 (which he did once). The rest of his career was over 4.50. A considerable improvement on the juice. Luis Gonzalez hit 26 more HR that one year than before or since with 30 more RBI. Brady Anderson had 26 more HR that one year than in any other season, with 30 more RBI than before or since. Brett Boone had 13 more HR and 30 more RBI than in any other season. Chipper had 7 more HR his MVP season and had less RBI than in other seasons. His MVP year weas a career year, for sure, but was basically in line with every other year during his eight straight with over 100 RBI. There was no appreciable increase in production like with the others. No roids involved. He had no season that was so far above any other he played, unlike the others. Look at Bonds-later in his career, he well exceeded his excellent numbers pre-roids. Chipper hasn’t seen any such surge.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

We all should boo every last one of them tonight except KJ, Willie, Diaz, Edgar, Yunel, Salty.

McCann, Frenchy, Chipper, Thorman, Andruw, Orr, Woodward should have boos screamed at them all night. Humiliate them in front of the whole country on ESPN. Let them know that being MLBers is a privilege and not a right.

Robert, Smoltz is normally a standup guy but Smoltz and Chipper have both acted like cowards here.

By MBATL

June 24, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

The problem with Chipper playing, due to being “called out” and having his manhood challenged, is the risk of a more severe injury. That’s exactly what happened to Davies last year - same injury, even; he hid a “sore groin”, tried to pitch through, and ended up missing more than half the year. And was widely criticized for it, even by Bobby Cox.

Anyway, I have no idea how severe Chipper’s injury is - yeah, he hit a HR, but also looked pretty hobbled on a couple of swings. Hopefully nothing more severe comes of it, because (thanks to both guys shooting off their mouths), he’s backed himself into a corner now.

The suggestion that CJ doesn’t play with pain is absurd. He has chronic foot problems that will be with him until he retires. 10 days ago, both hands were in splints. Yeah, he’s injury proned, but that’s not the same as having no heart.

Anyway, hopefully both guys are busy right now writing out their comments for tonight’s ESPN appearance, to put this issue away, at least publicly.

And Braveheart, couldn’t agree more on the 790 the Zone guys… having a hard time agreeing with any of the views that they hold to be “fact.”

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

Keep it up Paladin and I will take your sword from you. If you’ve seen my movie, you know how much blood and gore happens when I get my hands on a sword.

By Gary

June 24, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

I’m glad John spoke out. I look inside that dugout 50+ times a year. Chipper’s leadership is NO leadership. No enthusiasm, no spirit. Lead through example by going out hurt, with injuries that can’t be documented virtually the same time every year. Remember, this is the guy in his own interview that said, “If I had it to do over again, (baseball) I’d do something different”. That’ right Chipper, you’d have a career at the 7-11. Show some appreciation for the fans, your team mates and the game, or take a hike.

By Jimbo

June 24, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

If hope the Chipper/Smoltz thing goes on for a while. Its a lot more interesting then watching these boring bums play every day.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Braveheart What ever you do, please don’t take my sword. When I get bored, i mount it and giddy-up around the yard. MEDICAL NOTE: At my age accidents are possible, but the results would be insignificant.

By Robert

June 24, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

“Braveheart-Not vain. Overweight and tired of flippin hearing about it. It is not a criterion for ridicule. Do you need enforcing?”

Lew, if it helps, I riducle you because you are stupid, not because you are fat :P

By Lew

June 24, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Whatever-So many proving they have no clue and have their heads so far up their @$$ they haven’t seen daylight since they were brought forth kicking, screaming, b!tching, moaning and groaning about life’s inequities. Baggers, all. Get a clue time, y’all. Just Freak Out In A Moonage Daydream.

By Scooter

June 24, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

This is being blown way out of line. But since injuries have come up I do have some comments to make. Chipper is a titty baby. If he were to break a finger nail do you think he would play? “NOT”. The Braves have an allstar quality 3rd baseman they can’t count on to play full time. Everytime they get going he comes up lame. And he sure isn’t going to play dinged up the least bit. The sad part to this is we and the team have to put up with this for 2 more years. Come on Chipper let go of that titty and be a man.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

Robert-The Head Bagger. You couldn’t get out of your own way long enough to ridicule anyone except Bobby Cox. No one would believe you, anyway. The only ridicule associated with you is your ongoing, obsessive rant. Go chase a storm. You’d be better off gone with the wind.

By TommyB

June 24, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

I’m just now getting caught up on the overnight entries so quite probably others have already raised this, but here’s my observation after reading what “Neutral Observer” has to say.

Who ever that is, it has Larry Jones all over (and behind) it. And I am really amazed that it has happened.

Wow.

(Obviously, Shaun’s observation about how ridiculous it is to fault a pitcher who’s given up 1 or 2 runs is absolutely correct.)

I am all the more incredulous at the effort ole Chip is putting behind this transparent PR effort.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

Robert-You do realize that if stupidity were a poisonous snake, you would have bit yourself in the @$$ long ago.

By Don

June 24, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

I hope the new ownership has JS on a tight leash with regard to trading youth for veterans in search of the quick fix, unless of course they’re going to bump the payroll up $20 or $30 million so holes can be plugged with free agents and high priced players via trades. JS isn’t going to be in his job all that much longer and the desire to win now needs to be balanced with the long-term strategy for effectively running a team with an average payroll.

If JS trades Salty for a half season rental of Buerhle in the hope that Buerhle will be enough to get this mediocre at best team over the top, I’m going to vomit. If anything, go the other direction, be a seller (not that we’ve got many high priced players that anybody would even take, much less give something for) and get some youth in here. This team may be a player or two away from the possibility of a wild card given the current sorry state of the National League, but I don’t think it warrants gutting the future of the franchise. If they’re going to trade Salty because they think Baby Huey is only suffering a sophomore slump and they don’t need another catcher, he should only be traded for a comparable young and cheap potential top talent who plays a position that is an area of need for the Braves, like starting pitching, center field or a corner infield position.

They’ve tried to hold this team together with Scotch tape and baling wire for the last 3-4 years and it ain’t working anymore. Does JS answer to anybody for throwing away $4+ million on 4 veteran stiffs this past offseason who have contributed less than nothing (i.e. minor leagues callups in their roster spots would have almost certainly done better)? Where’s his accountability?

By Sir Stealth

June 24, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

I think it should mean something that not only have these guys been on the team way longer than anyone else, they’ve also been our best players during that time and are both future hall of famers. I don’t think either of them should have said what they said to the media - Smoltz has always had a bit of a big mouth which people erroneously celebrate for “keeping it real,” while the dignified thing for Chipper to have done would have been to take the high road in this situation and put it back behind closed doors where it belonged. That being said, anyone who wants to throw either of them out and downplay the contribution that either has made to the Atlanta Braves franchise clearly is not a real fan of the team and couldn’t give a damn about the success that the Braves have had over the years thanks to these two. Anyone who wants to sanctimoniously speculate about the effort that either give is just full of crap and should keep their opinions to their armchair where they belong instead of embarassing the Atlanta fans who don’t generate national embarassment.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

Maybe that’s the problem, you already did.

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

Fastfoodbreak, As I was leaving, I realized I had forgotten your post … which was a mind trigger to something of which I’m not frequently reminded.

Methinks we see what we want to see and hear what we want to hear … but I wasn’t expecting that one, I assure you!

He’s the one person that you could call an idiot for his comments … and not receive a reproach from me or be added to my spreadsheet!

What I said to just wondering was … I thought I heard McGuire admit to so using when questioned by the Senate sub-committee … I know it was my third ear and all, but…

All I know is that my third ear shouted to me that McGuire was admitting he had used steroids … and when my third ear shouts, I listen!

His testimony reminds me of the true story that happened when My wife and I lived in Valley Forge … a clean cut, innocent looking young man, trying to be accepted by his street wise mates busy boasting of their exploits … broke into their conversation, quite sincerely exclaiming “I live in a small town and have a friend who’s gay … but he has nothing to worry about, ‘cause I’m the only one who knows it!” … I overheard the story, and have never forgotten it, not because of the content, but because those South Philly, street wise punks didn’t recognize the implications of what the kid had said.

Most folks don’t listen, especially with their third ear … unless, of course they grew up with radio.

By Chuck

June 24, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

It seems that Chipper has gotten complacent at 3b, and gets some sort of injury when he errs or does not perform well, or is not getting enough attention.Escobar is much better at 3b. Trade Chipper to AL and let him DH. Smoltz is the true leader of the team. AJ needs to recover his form in Mississippi. Ther are many young players that can take his place.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 24, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

chipper learned of smoltz’s comments while driving home from the park.

“When I heard it, I wanted to pull over and puke,” said Jones.

and had chipper puked it would have been one more game missed due to puking.

fans may take sides, players may take sides, coaches may take sides, journalists may take sides … but chipper should not test the will of the fans on this matter. smoltz is a most popular brave and if the fans must choose, well …

of course, not all will agree.

there was a time every 10-year old in town worshipped chipper. and some of those then-10-year olds are now blogging here.

and dob is right in the middle of this controversy as dob should be. imagine when the fisticuffs begin with sore thumbs and bad pinky flying everywhere! here is a tip to smoltz: don’t hurt the shoulder trying to deck chipper (and avoid hitting chipper in the head) instead, stomp the toes. yes, that’s right, stomp the toes. no trifling here. stomp ‘em flat. oops. journalist has just taken sides. oh, the humanity!

and more poop on the porch will be dropped soon … as dob will be awaiting comments from both players prior to tonight’s game.

and what of the tee shirt - “poop on the porch - read the blog!”?

and in a test of wills … character, conviction, intelligence, capacity, honor … which player will stand the test? best that bobby intervene and save the team, the city, the fans, and all concerned anymore of this sophomorish behavior. dob is right - makes dob look old and wise.

and does the team have a chaplain?

By skeezix

June 24, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

This team stinks! It was miserable enough having to endure the minor league level of quality— but now that Bobby Cox and veteran leaders have lost control -with Chipper and Smoltz now squabbling through the media, this team and the season are really toast! The only thing that will keep me following the remainder of the season, is seeing whether the Braves finish ahead of the Marlins or sink all the way to last place.

By marcus3x

June 24, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

if chipper jones was black with all of those injuries the braves would have moved him to a different team a long time ago. keep chipper but get rid of andruw, sheffield, furcal, dye and etc.

By flange1

June 24, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

Hey Lew,

Do you think we should add Javier Lopez in his walk year from the Braves ti the jucer list?

By LT

June 24, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

This Smoltz-Chipper spat is unnecessary. If Smoltz needed to call anyone out on the team, it’s AJ. AJ has been the biggest hole on this team period.

Where are all the stories of AJ coming in early taking BP, working with coaches, etc. trying to break out of this slump? Nowhere.

Smoltz can bash Chipper all he wants. At least, the dude produces consistently when he’s healthy. In my opinion, the majority of this teams issues falls squarely on AJ’s shoulders.

By David O'Brien

June 24, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

Why are you folks bothering to read the Neutral Observer garbage? I mean, after the first couple of absurd posts, I just skipped the rest. And no, they are most definitely not written by Chipper or by someone at his request. You gotta believe me, the two have a lot of respect for each other, even if it’s not exactly evident at this moment….

Jame, did you get that last record by Ramblin’ Jack, “I Stand Alone,” the one that came out in the past year? Good stuff….

Lew, forgot to mention to you how excited these kids (well, late-20s or so) I met in Minneapolis were to see Grace Potter later that week, she was coming to some joint up there.

By Chuck

June 24, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

It seems to me that Chipper has grown complacent at 3b. Maybe he and the Braves would be better off if he was traded to an AL team toDH. When he errs or does not get enough attention he gets some sort of obscure injury.Smoltz is the veteran leader. Escobar is better at3b than Chipper, and AJ needs to recover his form in Mississippi.

By stynes

June 24, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Ok… so you obviously don’t like Chipper and Bobby. Here’s a second verse of a slightly different tune…

When I was just a baby, My Mama told me, “Then Always be a good boy, And always play to win,” But then came sterioids, And you just can’t deny, When I see the state of baseball, I hang my head and cry.

By David O'Brien

June 24, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Bravesfan, the Pirates are one of at least 10 teams that have inquired about Salty in the past 6 months. They just don’t all get publicized because not all organizations have such gaping info leaks in the front office as the Pirates do….

Tracman, I’d say Chipper is more than likely to make the Hall right now (see his switch-hitter numbers, the plus-.300 average, 370 homers, eight straight 100-RBI seasons, MVP award, etc.). While he’s been injury prone for three seasons, his previous eight seasons were the model of durability and consistency. When it comes time to vote, Hall voters will consider the overall body of work, and those eight seasons are going to look pretty impressive. If he makes it to 450 or so homers, I’d say he’s a lock, because he’ll still have the plus-.300 average and .400 or so OBP (the man can flat-out hit, and that’s probably not ever going to change, he’ll be one of the few old guys still hitting for high average at the end, just not in nearly as many games).

By Lew

June 24, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

Flange-Hey Dude, How’s it going? You know, I always liked Javy-he was actually one of my favorite players, but yeah I think he needs to be on the list. He was bulked. Chipper isn’t. Not to mention Javy just fell apart. Chipper, while injured more the past couple of years, still performs at a high level when he’s well.

By Thumper Theo

June 24, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

I’d place my vote for Chipper in the “better human being” department.

He seems to be honest with Braves fans and more importantly, himself.

Smoltz always tries to be connvincing fans (and himself) of something that just isn’t true.

His interviews are always self-serving and ego boosting. The spin he puts on losses are predictable and sometimes laughable.

It’s always the “one bad pitch” routine—except a few years ago when he gave up eight runs in the season opener and it was “two bad pitches.”

A lot of times I think he’s just trying to positive-program himself. But the writers and broadcasters dutifully report it and most of the fans somehow swallow it.

Let’s put it this way…which one of the two…Chipper or Smoltz…needed a shrink.?

By Efrim

June 24, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

DOB

Couple of questions for you.

1.Do you think JS will deal Salty for Buerhle? If he does, he is an idiot.

1. Will this team make the playoffs?

By Haywood Jablome

June 24, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

Scooter, thank you for introducing me to a new term..the “titty-baby”. I can’t wait to try it out! But seriously, why don’t we dangle some of our other decent spare parts, ie Prado, Blanco and Elvis before we give away Escobar or Salty?

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, I like your style, humor and many of your posts … you know that.

I can understand booing when a player’s actions are unsportsmanlike, including hotdoging and not giving 100% … if you’re supporting the booing of such actions, then I can understand … but if you’re advocating the booing of players simply because their performance level doesn’t meet with the fan’s approval, then you sir, are not a sportsman.

By Daxxed

June 24, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Hay tracman your June 24, 2007 11:36 AM I have to disagree with. Smoltz does not step up every time it is needed. If he does why did he not step up and take back the closer position last season until the Braves did get a closer. If he would have done that then Atlanta would have been in the playoffs once again. No he cared more about his record and the possibility of another Cy Young than the teams down slide in teh bull pen. How many more games would the Braves had won when leading in the last inning and won if Smoltz would have temporarily stepped up. He would have been back in the rotation in a few weeks. Once the Braves got Wickman. BUT SMOLTZ DID NOT STEP UP. Which is what a leader is suppose to do.

By Over Andy

June 24, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

The Chipper-Smoltz fued is something that I can’t say I’m sorry happened. It has the capability of sending this team into a quick downward spiral. On the other hand, what are they in now?

How ‘bout a quick downward spiral?

I don’t really expect the fued to have a positive effect, but ya know, it could.

I’m just ready to hear anything rather than the “gosh darn, we’re just having a tough time right now” BS that we are so used to hearing when the team is struggling. Maybe some kicking and screaming will wake some of the deadwood on this team up!

And oh yeah…. if I have to take sides, I gotta go with Smoltz. Chipper may in fact be the unluckiest man alive when it comes to injuries, but if he is getting hurt that often and in so many different places, he should just retire so that the Bravos can get on with “life without Chipper.” They are definitely a better team with him in the lineup, but as often as he gets hurt, the team has to figure out a way to live and win without him.

Hey!! I just said what Smoltzie said! No wonder I agree with him!

By flange1

June 24, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Hey Lew,

I agree on Javy and on Chipper.

By Savannah Guy

June 24, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Where there’s Smoltz, there’s fire. John Smoltz is a proven leader and warrior and others should be fired-up by his actions on the field and his words off the field. Period. Maybe this little “brush up” with Chipper will ignite something other than the lackluster play demonstrated most of the team, most of this year. I would hope that John and Chipper (also a warrior by the way) have already agreed to that, and called a “no harm, no foul…for the good ‘o the team” and such. Chipper is too valuable and has also carried this team on his shoulders (leading by example if not words) in years past to let this rile him too much.

”It’s the bit dog that barks”. Perhaps John was aiming his bite at Chipper…or not, based on DOB’s last report on the subject. But, Chippers reply reminded me of the old “bit dog” saying. Either way, even vets need a little fire under their butts…or a nip at their ear on rare occasions. It just naturally happens on occasion with Alpha dogs. Just be glad we have’em.

Smells like Teen spirit. Regardless of the recent reporting of fire breathing by Smoltzy, or the unfortunate, misplayed “Chip shot” reply, I suggest we should not choose sides between John and Chipper if we want the TEAM to play their best. If you are so inclined to “choose sides” and want to see a fight between two of our best players, like some high-school version of “my guy can lick your guy”, we’ll surely blog ourselves back to childish, Neanderthal behavior…or the WWF (The Dept. of Redundancy Department take note of repeated violation while eating your pie ala mode with ice cream on top).

Since we are not professional athletes on the field of play or having our words magnified under the media spotlight, we forget (some never knew) that ALL players will, from time to time make comments that are not always appropriate, thought out or measured…just like ALL bloggers. Writers, spectators and bloggers (should) have the advantage of careful consideration with what they say in an atmosphere without physical or competitive emotion (for the most part). Emotion is best glorified on the field AND in the clubhouse…not on the keyboard.

DOB: You stated, “…Does the Man in Black blog need to mediate this thing? Wow, what a mess. Makes me feel mature, by comparison.” Sometimes it gets hot in the kitchen. Wish we could be fly’s on the wall sometimes there with you in the club, but I do have to take issue a bit with the slant of your “feuding” perspective. But then, in all fairness to you, JS and CJ: any one of us would feel the same way in the same circumstance. My bet is that cooler heads will prevail and they will demonstrate the maturity of the great and seasoned veterans they are.

We that know everything and nothing. Yep…we, my fellow denizens, are in the proverbial bleachers. Trouble is, since we don’t know so much of what goes on behind the doors and outside of our vantage point, we can only make sound judgments on what we can witness on the field…not in the clubhouse. We depend on DOB (mostly) and other Braves reporters (and the occasional ESPN guys) to give us additional info and insight for that. So hopefully we give it a rest, even if we are hard-wired to be titillated by watching train wrecks and people slipping on banana peels.

The Truth Hurts. Apathy Causes More Pain. Even the cold, hard truth told at the wrong time in the wrong venue is often not well received. This is particularly true if those comments are played out, without all context, inflection or physical gestures over and over in the media (and blogosphere). All considered, at the end of the day, no matter the discomfort or the feelings or the spin-off…it is still the TRUTH.

If a truth falls in a clubhouse and no one hears it, does it make a sound? You bet, but in the grand scheme of things, the resulting publicized flare up may have an even more positive effect on all of the Bravos than if it were confined to the clubhouse.

Hopefully this truth that has been brought to light by Smoltzy will unchain the Braves from their overly analytical play, their self-centered introspection, their fear of failure…dislodge their “comfy” clubhouse atmosphere and free them to do what they get paid handsomely to do: play their best, with determination and heart.

End of Sunday Sermon. Wow, I’m shocked at the length of this post. No intentions to be so verbose or be preachy here, but no apologies…just felt the need to sound off…hey, it’s been a few days.

By Robert

June 24, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

“Global Warming is still real or not, depending on your point of view “

No. Global warming is either real, or it’s not. But whether it’s real or not doesnt depend on anyone’s point of view

Have another Twinkie and try again

By Amber

June 24, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

It’s just awful to see this from the two most highly respected members of the Braves team. And if anyone should be feeling heat, it’s Andruw. I just don’t think it’s Chipper or Smoltz’s fault that they get injured, have to miss games, or play through pain. What’s ‘Druw’s excuse? Is there something we’re not being told?

By Bill

June 24, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

If Pittsburgh wants Salty, tell them it will take Snell or Grezolaney and CF McCutchen. Braves throw in a low level prospect.

By David O'Brien

June 24, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

Efrim 1. No, 2. Too early to tell, but perhaps out of default. I’d lean toward “no” today, but talk to me after they face the Nationals and Marlins next week.

Not making excuses for the Braves, who have stunk recently and have big problems with their starting pitching and the gaping hole that was Andruw’s 40-50 homer and .265 presence before this season.

But…. You simply cannot dismiss the fact that the Braves have faced more ace-calibers starters in a 10-game span than I can recall during my six years covering the team, or maybe even in my 13 years covering ball:

Johan Santana (had him beat until ninth-inning blown 2-0 lead), C.C. Sabathia (beat him, his second loss), Fausto Carmona (great young pitcher), Josh Beckett, Curt Schilling (though hurt, so probably shouldn’t really count), Kenny Rogers, Justin Verlander. Even Paul Byrd was 6-2 before Braves beat him in that same 10-game stretch.

In Sabathia, Beckett, Santana and Verlander, you have arguably four of the best five or six pitchers in the American League, and Rogers was a 17-game winner last year, 20-game winner including his postseason shutouts.

Folks, that’s absurdly good opposing pitchers turning an already slumping Braves lineup into tatters. And in Detroit, Cleveland and Boston, it’s also three of the best five AL lineups beating up on Braves pitching.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Robert-Take that Twinky and go perform perverted acts with it you Flippin Douchebag.

By Salty

June 24, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

DOB Honestly, I figured Neutral Observer was an alias of a dear friend of the blog…not well liked by many. The approach, writing, etc., was similar, but since you didn’t mention it, must not be. Besides, I scrolled through the rest after the first one or two nonsensical posts…just as I do with our dear friend.

By Robert

June 24, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

In all seriousness, I agree with Lew in thinking Chipper was never juiced up.

Chipper is dumb as rocks, and has lived his life as the golden boy who was always on a winning team.

And Chipper found a nice comfort zone - living large and being BMOC on a team that almost achieved greatness - instead of going all out and giving the everything it wouldve took to get over the hump and achieve real greatness

Same goes for Andruw

I’d bet that Smoltzie would trade his Cy Young and a bunch of his wins and personal stats for a second ring.

I’m not sure Chipper would trade tomorrow’s tee time for one

Andruw wouldnt trade Lew a Twinkie for one

By Pokey

June 24, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is right. CHipper is a little baby who sits out a game if he stumps his toe. Trade him.

At least Andrew plays. He sucks these days, but he’s out there trying.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

June 24, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

I found the rumor that the Pirates are interested in Salty to be quite humorous. I can’t belive that Littlefield would even think about making a deal with the Braves after the debacle that has been the Gonazles/Lillibridge for LaRoche trade. I would think the fans in Pittsburgh would hang Littlefiend by his toenails for even texting JS let alone actually speaking to him. Besides, unless the Pirates are willing to give the Braves either Gorzelany or Snell along with either Bay or Doumit for Salty there is no need to discuss anything. And, I doubt Littlefied is that stupid……Or is he?

DOB, would I be wrong in assuming the Braves want a #3 or better starter for Salty and would be willing to trade Escobar or Lillibridge for another bat. One that can hit more than their weight. Also, has Liberty Media given any indication to whether they are willing to spend some more money or is the self-imposed cap still a hard cap?

I also keep hearing the Texiera rumors. I am not so sure I would want Texieria. I know in the offseason I was all about getting him here, but now I don’t know. Something about that guy just doesn’t sit right with me. I could easily see him falling on his face. I like the idea of Jermaine Dye better. Yes, I know he is hurt but I think a change of scenery could do him so good.

I also like the idea of Alex Rios from the Jays. I wonder if a deal involving Escobar and either Davies or JoJo Reyes would for Rios would peak the Jays interest.

DOB, I’m also curious about these Griffer Jr. rumors. Several sources including ESPN, Fox Sports (ie: Ken Rosenthal), and mlbraderumors.com all believe that Griffey to Atlanta is an almost certainty if the Reds trade him. I don’t see how Atlanta would get this deal done not to mention that while Griffey is playing very well, I think that would be taking a HUGE risk. I really do. We all know that the only player in the majors more fragile than Wood, Prior, and Chipper is Griffey Jr.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist, your point is well taken. That would be unsportsmanlike to boo based upon performance. But these are my reasons for boos:

Andruw - because i believe he is a dog. he let himself get fat and lazy. he lived for years off talent alone. he tries hard on the field. of that there is no doubt. but his poor work ethic and poor discipline off the field are currently affecting his on field performance.

McCann - see Andruw’s reasons to be booed.

Orr and Woodward - they try but the point needs to be made to ownership and the homeboy upstairs that these are inadequate backups for a postseason contender.

Thorman - he does not deserve to be booed. I should not have included him. He tries very hard - probably too hard. his skills are not MLB ready right now but that is no reason to boo him.

Chipper - i am not sure whether he deserves to be booed. before yesterday’s game I would have said not at all. but then to get back on the field yesterday and say it was because he was forced made no sense to me. you can either play or you can’t. I trusted him and defended him. After yesterday’s game, I feel like that was some misplaced trust.

Frenchy - i don’t know. something is missing with this guy. we need to yank the silver spoon away from his mouth now. boos would accomplish that. i don’t think it is his lack of performance. i have an issue with something mentally with him. i can’t put my finger on it. i think that hunger is gone from him. i want to boo him to get some hunger back in the kid.

By Ron Roberts

June 24, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

Don, I agree with your mentioning the $4 million blown this off-season on wash-ups. If we’d at least matched the $3.1 million given to Steve Trachsel by the Orioles, we’d have him in our rotation. Of course, now he’s having a June swoon as well, so maybe we were better off. That being said, if you visit the ESPN free agent signing page HERE you’ll see there really wasn’t much else out there for us to get with that $4 million that would’ve improve the team other than a guy like Trachsel. There are other relievers out there we could’ve gotten, but I think it’s been well-documanted that our bullpen isn’t the problem with this team.

In order, here are my top concerns about this team:

1. Outside of Smoltz, the rotation’s a crap-shoot. Which Tim Hudson will show up? Which Chuck James? Will the Kyle Davies we’ve enjoyed in 4 starts appear, or the one who’s dogged it the other 10 starts? Where’s our fifth starter?

2. Andruw’s killing the offense. We can quibble, here and there, about other players and their offensive short-comings all we want, but without Andruw Jones, this offense just sputters. He had a decent April, and the team had a good offensive month. He’s fallen off a cliff, since then, and the team’s offensive output has dropped as well. Coincidence? I think not. We were at or near the top in batting average and runs scored early on; we’re 8th and 9th (respectively) in the National League now. With sub-par starters, a sub-par offense makes for a sub-par outcome. And we’re what, 1 game over .500 at this rate? Mmmm hmmm….

It’s been well-documented… we can’t trade Andruw without Andruw’s permission, and at this rate, who’d take him in the midst of a slump? Sure, there’ll be suitors in the off-season, but they, too, wanna see if the asking price keeps going down because of his performance this year, and if so, they don’t want it to be at their expense this season.

We have quality prospects to offer up, but is it worth it to go get a middle-of-the-pack starter when most of us don’t believe that’ll be enough to get to and win the World Series this year?

I say it’s not; so let’s hang onto ‘em and use ‘em as we need ‘em. Yunel’s this season’s version of Willie Aybar, (minus the substance abuse issues), and Jarod Saltalamacchia’s too valuable a prospect to dole out for a half-season rental. Mark Buehrle wants to sign with the Cardinals this off-season, so he’s not worth the expense of losing a top-tier prospect.

The only way this team should ship off Escobar, Saltalamacchia or Brent Lillibridge is if we get a guy or guys in return who we have more than half a season of contact time to work with.

Otherwise, I say we just float or flounder with what we have and start thinking about what we do with the millions that should be available this offseason to prime the team for a swan-song playoff run for Bobby Cox.

By Robert

June 24, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

DOB - Yes the Braves have faced a run of good pitching. For a long time whoever faced the Braves faced a run of good pitching. Didnt ever hear any of those opponents whine about it

Just do it.

If you’re gonna resign yourself to how great and unhittable the opposing pitcher is, then why come to the ballpark.

Lew - Got a few extra hot dogs and some chips ready in case your hero breaks the record today? Joke ya, you fat fork

By Lew

June 24, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

Robert-You do realize that the last time you started this line of horsesh!t with me you ended up apologizing. In the mean time, I either ignored you and your incessant rant completely, or, if you were speaking about a baseball topic, I responded to you civilly and was in no way personal in my responses. Now, I really don’t give a damn what you say-I just consider the source. However, going on with you like this not only doesn’t challenge my intelligence as I feel you to be a consummate @$$ to begin with and hardly in anyone’s intellectual league with an IQ of over 7, but I really don’t like going on and on with you-It diminishes me and just puts me in a lousy mood. So, maybe it would be a good idea if we just dropped it. Not only are you not a worthy opponent, but I have better things to do than trade twinky jokes with an @$$hole. Goodbye.

By Dylan w/o the dead

June 24, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

I cant believe how many of you are jumping down chipper’s throat for this. Did anyone see him swing and mis grimace through the pain of it then using only his upper body hit a homerun on one of the best pitchers in baseball this season. That ranks up with mickey mantle and kirk gibson in the heroic status. Smoltz I am sure is just frustrated by having a losing ballclub for the second season in a row this is new teritory for him he is used to winning but if he wants to call someone out it needs to be the guys on the field Andruw is killing us at the plate in fact with the exception of chipper and edgar renteria everyone else is hitting like crap. Blaming chipper for being hurt is ridiculous we escobar who has played well enough to give Chipper a break and not lose too much offensively I would think that if mccann or frenchy or andruw could step up and lead this team then we wouldnt miss chipper while he gets healthy enough to provide the major lift he is capable of providing when his body is healthy. Smoltz was wrong for calling him out in the media if he has something to say to a player then he should say it in the clubhouse to the mans face I think chipper has earned that much.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

June 24, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

This team is a lot like last year’s team. They are indescribably frustrating. They are way too talented to be playing this poorly. Like last year, this team is better than its record despite the pitching issues. Yesterday’s game is a prime example. Davies pitches a great game and the offense can’t score any runs. It always seems to be that way with Davies. When he pitches a gem, the offense takes the day off.

Granted, the offense has faced some of the best pitching in baseball over the last four games but this offense has struggled for a couple of weeks now. I know many on here dismiss the importance of “smallball” but times like this is when smallball can spark a team. This team can’t lay down bunts nor can they steal bases.

I said it yesterday and I will say it again today. This team lacks fire. You don’t see the emotion of other winning teams. You don’t see a team that will take nothing less than winning. You also don’t see a team that is held accountable for laziness and hardheadedness. Francouer needs a day off. He reverted back to his old ways when he went into a slump. That is normal. What isn’t normal is for him to be allowed to do it without any instruction or discipline. Andruw has been swinging like a drunk beer league softball player all year and Cox just keeps clapping and saying, “C’mon, Andy, get a hit!” He can’t get a hit because he is coming out of his shoes on every swing. You know why he has bad knees? Because he scrapes them on the ground every time he swings. This is beyond a slump now. I love Andruw but he is undisciplined. I would say TP needs to get on it and work with Andruw. But, I believe the truth is that TP’s hands are tied. He knows what he sees every game is wrong and downright ridiculous, but because Cox would rather coddle Andruw than get in his a** TP can’t really do anything to correct the problem.

This baseball team is beginning to look like a mediocre NBA team. What I mean by that is that the players run the show instead of the manager/coach. The players do what they want to do instead of what they should do. Andruw is like Shaq. He knows he needs to be in shape. He knows he needs to work on his deficiancies which are killing the team, but he doesn’t feel like doing it so he doesn’t.

Chipper is like Dirk Nowitzki. He is the best player on the team and should be the outspoken leader of the team but he doesn’t want the role so he does nothing. Sure, Chipper counsels other guys on hitting and things of that nature but when it comes to getting into somebody’s face and challenging them he doesn’t do it nor does he care to do it.

Smoltz is a great leader at times but at others he isn’t very smart or mature. What he did to Chipper wasn’t right. What he said was dead on but the way he went about it was childish. Smoltz is supposed to be such a “man” then he needs to begin acting like one.

Question is what does Cox do? I personally think Cox is part of the problem. He is a great manager, but he lacks the intensitiy that struggling teams need. In the past his passive aggressive approach worked because the team was more talented and usually experienced. This team is younger and doesn’t quite know how to win in the majors yet. Guys like Smoltz and Chipper aren’t used to losing and don’t know how to handle it. Young guys need a fire lit up under them sometimes. Lets be real. Sweet Lou may be over the top sometimes but those young hitters in Tampa would likely tell you that Lou getting in their face helped them as much as anything. He challenged them to be better and not tell them in so many words that medicority is okay.

I’m not saying that Cox encourages mediocrity but he does condone it. Andruw needs his a** to be benched until he “gets it”. Can anybody here honestly tell me that Andruw deserves to play more than Willie Harris or Matt Diaz? Can anyone tell me honestly that if Brandon Jones was with the team right now that he would playing worse? Andruw is more worried about his contract next season than he is winning this season.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

DOB-Glad to hear about Grace’s popularity in other venues. She’s good enough for some significant National attention. I really thought they put on a great show and the crowd agreed. I still would like to see her fronting Govt. MUle or doing a duet with Greg Allman, but her band was much better in concert than I thought they would be. Grace was excellent, even though she never fell out of that extremely low cut dress.

By bobo

June 24, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

i just don’t get the chipper bashing. this is the guy that has twice changed positions because he was asked to, regardless of his feelings. i never heard him complain about moving to left field though it was apparent that he didn’t want to do it. he even has said he would move to first if the team asked but he really didn’t want to. he also restructured his contract so the team would have some flexibility to add and/or keep other pieces. i think he’s been a real TEAM guy all along. i have no idea if he should be playing or sitting but i’m not sure anybody else does either. as for smoltz, he was the guy that said he wouldn’t close anymore whether or not the team agreed. it was his contention that his arm would hold up better as a starter. if he was right, i guess it was the right call. i think the player should make that call because theoretically he knows his body better than anyone else.

By Ron Roberts

June 24, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Oh God… I’m gonna….

…agree with….

Robert!!

On ONE thing…

Playoff teams have to continually face good pitching in the playoffs. So going up against good arms can be construed as a cop-out. I mean, I get what you’re saying DO’B… but good teams can beat good pitching occasionally.

Problem is, we have nothing from Andruw and an ailing Chipper Jones - the two main cogs in our offense. Add a slumping Jeff Francoeur (who’s first-pitch swinging has nothing to do with who’s on the mound and everything to do with who’s in the batter’s box and what’s going on in that batting helmet) and a sophomore-slumping Brian McCann, and we’re adrift, offensively.

The only guys doing any damage this month are Matt Diaz, Willie Harris (and we only get one or the other) and Edgar Renteria while the rest of the lineup struggles, this month.

Wanna know what those three have in common that ought to scare ya? None of ‘em came up in the Braves organization, so where ever it is they got their basic major league batting instruction - it wasn’t in the Braves camp.

Andruw Jones? Jeff Francoeur? Brian McCann? Kelly Johnson (hitting .239 in June)? Scott Thorman? All lifetime Braves, from rookie league to Atlanta.

I said it a coupla days ago… there’s an organizational issue somewhere in the minors that needs to be ironed out. And no, Robert, that’s not a Bobby Cox issue. He’s a manager, not a coach. He manages the team, and by and large, does a fine job. All he can do is put in the lineup and on the field the guys he’s been scouted to believe will produce for him. And he gives them every opportunity to succeed. Give him the tools to win, and he does.

I’m just starting to think that without free agent dollars to fill in the gaps, depending on Braves’ organizational guys is going to be our downfall. Maybe I’m wrong.

By Efrim

June 24, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

DOB

I agree it is too early. If the team goes 9-4 against the Nats, Marlins, Dodgers and Padres. Then they are 47-42, that ain’t that bad. But lets be honest. They aren’t going to go 9-4 in that stretch. Lets say 6-7. Since they will lose tonights game to get to .500 That makes them 44-45. I figure they will be 8 back in the loss at that point. Basically what I am getting to is that I feel that the Braves should be sellers at the deadline if they are a game under .500 by the all star break. What do you think? I’m sure you will disagree with me.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

June 24, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

Let me say this about Chipper. He is by no means faking this injury or milking it. However, as often as he seems to be hurt, you do have to wonder why is he always hurt. Does he really just have that bad of luck?

I think Smoltz’s comments have to do with frustration about Chipper always being hurt and knowing that this team needs just a player or two more to be a truly winning team and nothing seems to be getting done. Whomever said he should be calling out Andruw instead of Chipper is correct. Andruw is the main reason this team is struggling. While the rotation may suck, it is Andruw and his total inability to hit a baseball that is killing this team. And, he just keeps smiling like nothing is wrong. Pal, a lot is wrong and it begins with you and your listening to your agent. But, I have to wonder if he is even listening to Boras. Boras is no dummy. He knows Andruw is not helping his free agent status at all. I would think Boras is telling him to listen to anybody who could help him hit for a higher average than the weight of food he consumes in a week.

If I were a betting man, I am sure both Smoltz and Chipper will be in Cox’s office or worse, JS’ office, later on today getting this entire situation ironed out and a team meeting will ensue. Well, lets say that is what I hope will happen.

By beachcomber

June 24, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Robert (JISB) - Good analysis. We need some sort of spark to turn it around. As you said so well, this team is too good to be playing this badly.

A week or so ago, I felt we were one solid pitcher away from the NL East. Now, I’m not so sure. A win tonight then 4 of 6 against the gnats and fish would go a long way to getting us back on track.

What is it about June anyway?

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Gosh, I go in for my “power nap” and it has gotten plain hostile in here. Not to sound like Mr. Rogers, but children, let’s play nicely with one another.
I’m going out to kill some more of my flowers but before I go, may I suggest this. Help me to load up Andruw’s lard a$$ in a pick-um-up and I will haul him, and it, over to Paris Island. There I will have some of my buds do their Richard Simmons thing with him and when I bring him back he will be a lean, mean, fightin’ machine. Think about it.

By Efrim

June 24, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts

Agreed on all counts. When was the last RHP we developed who was a solid major league pitcher???

Kevin Millwood. And I mean ones we actually kept. Jason Schmidt doesn’t count. It took like 8 years for the guy to get it together.

There is definetly an organizational problem.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

June 24, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts. although I hate to encourage Robert in any way, I do believe that some of this lies at Cox’s feet. Here is what I mean. Yes, I think their is an orginizational issue. But, what happens when these guys get to the majors? Andruw is doing the same mechanically incorrect things now that he was doing when he was 20 and already up with the big league team. Francoeur hasnn’t changed any of his habits except for a brief time at the beginning of the season, which he did on his own. Thorman’s swing has holes in it and he hasn’t altrered it at all. The team can’t lay down a bunt to save its life. They don’t steal bases or even have a technique at stealing. Davies and James are making the same mechanical mistakes they were making last year and the year before. So, who’s fault is that? Is it the fault of the coaching staff? Are TP, Snitker, and McDowell not doing their jobs? Or, are they not allowed to do their job correctly? In either case, it all leads back to Cox. If the coaches aren’t doing their job well, then they should be thrown out on their butts. If they aren’t allowed to do their job, that means someone is keeping them from doing it? Is it the players? If so, wouldn’t that be Cox’s job to stress to the players that they are to do what they are instructed to do. Or, is it Cox who is keeping the coaches from coaching fundamentals to these guys. No matter what is the reason it all leads back to the head (Cox).

DOB said he hardly ever sees the Braves doing any stretching as a team. That is just absurd. These guys are professional athletes who put their bodies through hell. They need to stretch. And, before anybody comes at me with that junk about “they are adults and should not have to be told to do it”, I say shutup! I don’t care if they are adults or not. They should be made to do it. While these guys are pro athletes, they are human beings as well and we all know that there are things we should do but won’t if not made to do them.

By Ron Roberts

June 24, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

I’ll say this much… those of you believing we’ll come out of interleague play and go 4-2 against the Nats an Marlins need to realize that those teams have played better than we have since our 7-1 start; don’t count on those games as certainties.

That being said, a strong rebound against those squads would be nice, as the Mets get the Cardinals then the Phillies (a 2-2 split between them would be nice while we swept the Fish, but uh….) and the Phillies get the woeful Reds before the Mets series.

After that, though, we have four in L.A. against the Dodgers before wrapping up in San Diego. The Dodgers are a bit like us, hurting in the rotation a bit, but still in the hunt, while the Padres are on top of their division. Not an easy row to hoe heading into the All-Star Break.

By Don

June 24, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, I agree that $4 million wasn’t going to buy a lot in last winter’s market. But with that the case I say keep the money in your pocket. They could have plugged in minor league guys in the Wilson/Woodward/Redman/Sturtze (assuming Sturtze ever shows up) spots and been better off. The Woodward signing forced them to trade Tony Pena, Jr., who could have backed up 3 infield positions and certainly wouldn’t have been a worse hitter than the human windmill Woodward.

If JS had held the $4+ million in his pocket, he would have some money to find a guy to play third base for the 60 or so games a year Chipper can’t play since the guy he traded for last year is in substance recovery or whereever he is. Or he could put it toward picking up back of the rotation starting pitcher.

How did JS look at the career stats and the recent performance of those 4 stiffs and think he would get anything out of them? Where was the evidence?

By Adios Chipper

June 24, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is right, Chipper is a liability to the organization. He is always injured I can’t remember the last time I saw a player get put on the DL for bruised hands. Every year expect Chipper to go on the DL for at least 30 games for a hangnail. I say trade him for prospects. Maybe to those dreaded Yankees they always want X All Stars past there prime. Yunel and Salty its there time now in my opinion adios Chipper

By rupert

June 24, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

bottom line, chipper and smoltz are both frustrated because they are not used to losing…

bottom line, if andruw was hitting is customary .260 with normal power production this team would be in first place, there are other problems, don’t get me wrong, but if he was having a normal year in the clean up hole the braves would be in first place

By lawdawg

June 24, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

Question DOB: With Salty pinch-hitting yesterday and McCann subsequently ejected, who would have come on to catch yesterday if the Braves had tied the game?

By Don

June 24, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Psycho Boy, since we know that Lew gets out and around, that means he can’t possibly be anywhere near as overweight as you are stupid.

Plus, while it’s possible for Lew to lose weight, your mid double digit IQ will be a life long condition.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Robert(JIB) You make some excellent points, but I don’t know about that stretching part. If some of that flab snapped you could have a tsunami in Lake Lanier.

By Ron Roberts

June 24, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Robert(JIB)… you point out flaws in players, but these are flaws that should’ve been worked out before they arrived at the big leagues or else they shouldn’t be in the big leagues, wouldn’t you say?

Listen, I’m in radio, and I’m in a fairly big market. The basic skills necessary to perform my job shouldn’t require my supervisor here to stop and teach me the basics. He realizes that I’ve been in radio well over a decade and should know tbe basics now or I wouldn’t have gotten the call-up. The same applies here.

If Bobby Cox gets a kid called up from the minors to play for him, and he asks that kid to lay down a bunt, he damn-well ought to know how to lay down a bunt; if he doesn’t, then somebody on the way up didn’t properly prepare that kid. The same applies for all basic baseball skills.

By tj

June 24, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is my all time favorite Brave, but he has missed a lot of time too. Does anybody remember Chipper ever saying any thing,especially to the media about that? If Smoltz had some problem with Chipper he should have gone to Chipper, not pop off to the media so they could make it bigger than it probably is.

By Over Andy

June 24, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

I was at the game Friday night but with a 2 year old in 90+ degree heat, like Smoltz, I didn’t make it out of the sixth inning.

I got back in time to watch the last inning and the post game comments when Smoltz said what he said. I didn’t read what he said somewhere, I actually heard it with my own ears.

Even though I said in an earlier post that I agreed with Smoltz, at the time what I heard was a frustrated Smoltz who if anything seemed to be calling the guys who were playing out rather than picking on Chipper. He stated matter of factly that they were going to have to learn how to win without (Chipper) in the lineup. (even though he didn’t mention Chipper by name)

Anyone here who disagrees with that? This team has to learn how to win when Chipper is not in the lineup?

Smoltz praised the guys who were in the lineup for bustin’ their butts, but still made it clear that they were going to have to step up no matter what the injury circumstances were.

Maybe Francouer, McCann and company are going to be superstars tomorrow, but these guys just don’t yet know how to lead. They are young. They are learning. Who is going to teach them? Is it the job of the veterans to teach this guys to step up? Is it the coaches job? Is it the managers job? Do they have to learn on their own?

I know the young guys have less than 3 years experience, but how long does it take before they become leaders? At five years? At 7 years? Never? Not everyone can be a Derek Jeter who is a leader soon after he arrives with the Yankess but hopefully they won’t be an Andruw Jones who is in the majors 8 or 9 years before they start approaching their potential. And of course look at Andruw now.

Some guys are leaders. Some are followers who can put up some decent numbers as long as they don’t have to step up and lead. Who is going to be a leader among the young guys? Do we even have one?

You can look at this team and see tremendous potential with the young guys. But management in Atlanta needs to look and see if they have any leaders on this team for the future. If not, they had better trade for one, because without some “step up” guys, a team will never be a serious contender to be anything above average.

By Efrim

June 24, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Do you all honestly think this team is going to rip it up against the Nats and Marlins. Not a chance. They haven’t showed any signs of beating anyone. The team has scored one run in 38 innings. I think the tough opposing pitchers thing is a bunch of garbage. It is a complete excuse. Win the freeking games. Just win. It really ticks me off when people make excuses for this team. Lets see what excuses people can make up when we go 5-8 in the next 13 games and officially get knocked out of the division race. What a joke. Not to mention our two veterans are bickering about their injuries. This offseason the Braves better understand that their best hitter is only going to play 120 games and their ace is going to be 41 years old. Time to start developing more pitching talent in the minors and acquire a BIG bat that doesn’t miss 40 games in a year. How are you suppose to win a division when problems like this persist?

By Ron Roberts

June 24, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Like I said, before, Don… I don’t disagree with your thoughts about the money being wasted on what we got. I’m with ya on that. I just wanted to show ya what little there was within that price range to have gotten instead. Pocketing the cash would’ve saved us the money, but there aren’t many teams out there willing to trade us a top-tier starter for cash and a prospect, I don’t think. And there’s not much out there we could trade for and use that cash to pay him with, anyhow. Even if there were, it’d still be just a rental player, at-best. And my point is, I don’t think this season’s worth trading off Yunel Escobar, Brent Lillibrdige or Jarrod Saltalamacchia for. Those three, with Francoeur, and Kelly Johnson are good pieces to build a team around. What’s sorely lacking from that, though, is good, young lights-out starting pitching.

By Ron

June 24, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

Well I dont think we should make any big trades, mainly because our Offense is so pathedic, and we never know what pitcher is going to show up besides Smoltz, and any pitch that Smoltz throws, he could get hurt and have to miss alot of games, you just never know!!! Personally I think we just need to keep it like it is because even if we trade for Buerhle and by some miracle we make the playoffs, we aint gonna do anything in the playoffs anyway!!! And dont give me this damn crap about if we just get there like the Cardinals did we have a chance!!! No we do not!!! I have been saying that for 14 years back when we started this streak of division titles and we won 1 Championship!!! We are not lucky enough to do what those Damn Cardinals did last year, so quit fooling yourselves, lets just hold on to our prospects and try to make some smart great trades in the offseason, and maybe next year we will ACTUALLy have a chance to Win the World Series!!!

By MBATL

June 24, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Why does McCann always get the “sophomore slump” excuse, but Francoeur doesn’t? If McCann is too hurt to contribute, he should sit down and let Salty play. If injuries aren’t the problem… fine… let him work it out, just like Francoeur.

Adios Chipper, Escobar is a nice young player, but if you think he’s got the power or the defensive skills to play 3B full time, I think you’ll be disappointed. He’s maybe a starting SS, but not a major league 3B, offensively or defensively.

By bravesfan

June 24, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

DOB on ESPNEWS it say the Chicago Tribune is reporting the White Sox will trade Mark Buehrle. Where are you hearing he is going to be traded to?

By lisa

June 24, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

This really concerns me. While it’s nice (on some level) to see a little emotion in the clubhouse, this is counter productive. I, too wish Chipper would shut his trap and just play. He’s not on the field often enough to run off at the mouth as often as he does. His bat is important, when he’s in the line up.

I love this team and am not willing to bag the season before the all star break, but this silly petty nonsense has to stop. I’d rather them ride into the break in third place and catch fire the last half anyway.

Both of these guys are critical to the success of the Braves and are supposedly clubhouse leaders. This team is too good with too much potential to fall apart internally. Perhaps the Cubs were in town too long.

By joebrave

June 24, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

What the he11 is this? everyone here,going off and challenging one another ,and I get criticized on here!! What in the blue he11,Chipper and Smoltzie,have spilled over in here and created the Royal Rumble,well I gotta take Smoltzies,side as well as Lew’s at this time,say Robert if you want to pick a fight sockcucker bounce over here,you little driveling twit,Lew happens to be one of the Gentlemen here,so when most direct their barbs at me I can deal with it,but what I can’t deal with or stand is some adolescent,momma’s boy plying,his sour milk syndrome toward good folk like Lew,carolina ladyWayne in utah,etc… this eam needs a wake up call and to rid itself of the plague called Andruw Jones…

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

June 24, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, point taken. However, I need to ask…How do you explain Andruw. Andruw has basically been here since the beginning of his professional carrer. And with respect to Francouer he was called up out of necessity before he was ready.

My point was that Cox doesn’t stress fundamentals and we all know it. He plays for the three run homer and that style of play just isn’t successful. At least in my opinion, which I know isn’t worth a pile of crap.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Wanna know what those three have in common that ought to scare ya? None of ‘em came up in the Braves organization, so where ever it is they got their basic major league batting instruction - it wasn’t in the Braves camp.

Ron Roberts, I don’t know if it is really hitting instruction.

What I would say they have in common with each other and what makes them different from the rest of the guys is this: Willie and Diaz have been given up for dead, have been placed on life support, and have had to battle, fight and claw to be where they are. Edgar was always told he was not a good hitter when he came up - he fought like hell to dispel that myth. Edgar was killed and dumped in the River by the the Red Sox. He came here looking to tell the world to go F themselves. Yunel grew up in Cuba, came here on a boat, had a bad year in the minors last year and is hell bent to tell everyone to never tell him he does not belong and that he can’t get what he wants. Salty is fighting because Salty wants to be here and is willing to play any and all positions so that he can stay here. KJ came up two years ago, kind of flopped, got hurt, no fan cared that he missed the entire season, they told him to change positions and told him to learn to hit leadoff if he wanted to stick around. He had to fight to be here if he wanted to stick around.

Andruw, Chipper, McCann, Frenchy are the silver spooned chosen ones.

Perhaps Salty and Yunel will turn into them within a year or two as well.

Thorman is fighting like hell but he was also handed a job at first base that he has never earned at all.

Orr plays hard but he has also been handed something that he has not earned, nor does he deserve.

Woodward plays hard but he has also been handed a position he does not deserve.

Aybar was handed a spot on the team. When he thought he would be handed second base, he didn’t get it, he sulked, started doing drugs, went AWOL, and is now in rehab I hope.

Betemit on the other hand was the prized prospect, then became a bust, a dud, given up for dead, left on the 25 man roster only because he had no options left, and he fought like hell to show everyone he deserved to be here and that he was better than everyone and for the most part he did really well. Now that he was handed a job as a starter in LA, he seems to have fallen prey to the spoiled brat syndrome that is prevalent in the ATL farm system.

By Multiple Choice

June 24, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

“It’s no time to start pointing fingers at people,” Cox said before the game.

What did he mean?

a) Wait until we lose 2 out of 3 to the Nationals next week, then we can start pointing fingers.

b) It’s not polite to point. A nod is as good as a wink.

c) Point at objects, not at people. Braves players can blame their gloves, bats, even the resin bag.

d) Fingers should be kept securely in one’s nasal passages, where they belong.

By Cornholio

June 24, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Mark Buerhle appears headed to the Red Sox, who have a ton of prospects to offer & will agree to the 5-year contract extension.

JS, start taking offers on Tim Hudson -NOW ! The Yankees, Rangers, Angels, et al will soon and Mets will soon come a calling.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Hey guys, you are very astute and making great contributions while I play the role of the class clown, zinging in my one-liners. Let me be cirrus for a moment and put this in the mix.

Everyone agrees that what the Braves need most is lights-out starting pitching. But, it wasn’t available then; it’s not available now, and it won’t be available “when” unless we develope it in our own system. And I don’t see that happening. Do you?

By Chop Chop

June 24, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Regarding the hitting issues that many home-grown Braves players have, here’s something that you have to remember. For many years, the Braves’ organizational philosophy has been to draft and sign “toolsy” players. In other words, they’re physically gifted, but mostly unpolished as hitters or pitchers. When you draft a lot of high school kids (or sign young guys right off the islands), you’re going to need great teachers in the minors to instill the proper way to play baseball in the big leagues. Because these guys are so young, the ones who flash the most power potential (Andruw, Francoeur, guys of that ilk) and can smack the ball around will tend to skate by a little bit with an undisciplined approach at the plate. They can make up for it with the homer and will end up drawing some walks more out of fear than just “having a good eye.” I think it’s natural for minor league instructors to see that ability to hit the ball hard with a decent average and just move on to the guys that seemingly need more help. In reality, it’s the guys that have obvious big-league ability that coaches need to be the hardest on. Chipper and McCann grew up with fathers who know every aspect of their swings and can help them break it down more than Terry Pendleton could ever hope to do, so TP really can’t help those guys too much when they’re scuffling. Andruw and Francoeur are used to trying to figuring things out on their own (because they were so good at such a young age), always believing that the power is there and that they’ll just magically come out of a slump. The difference between these two guys is that Francoeur has a much greater ability to hit a ball where it’s pitched than Andruw. That’s why he always has a fighting chance to dig out of a slump. On the other hand, Andruw’s had an awful lot of success in the bigs for a long time and is completely comfortable in his own skin as a ballplayer. He has nothing to prove in this game. Therefore, inn his mind, he knows, believes and has concrete proof that his approach at the plate works. He’s questioning that right now, which makes it even harder for him to hit. It’s my belief that the only way Andruw is going to start hitting is to go up there, think his way through some at-bats instead of reacting (that’s the opposite of what you hear him say he needs to do, but maybe those two walks last night are an omen…maybe he actually did think a little bit up there), and make pitchers give him something to hit. Once he starts doing that, the numbers will be there.

By DonC

June 24, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

I have a new adjective to describe Chipper Jones. We can now add to the list of overpaid, overrated, listless, lifeless, and hopeless….MARTYR!

This really takes it, people check this guys stats….how many LOBs, how many HRs when game was out of hand either way, how many errors on routine grounders to start big innings in playoff games?

Now a guy who has done everything asked of him with a lot more pain and wear on his body is showing leadership by saying it doesn’t matter and little Larry gets his feelings hurt.

Can’t believe Cox has been fooled for so long. Chipper didn’t understand what Smoltz was referring to because he was showing leadership and that is something this Braves organization has NEVER seen from their veteran 3B. Check the records, McGriff, Galarraga, even Andruw carried the team for a while last year.

I hope he takes his bag of money and stays at whatever ranch he prefers. Send him home Jerome (Schuerholz didn’t rhyme!)

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Joebrave, you calling out Robert, dude?

Alright, pre-game Battle Royale between Lew, N8, Grinch, Wayne, SJA, Joebrave, Robert, Shaun, caveman22, me, Smoltz, Chipper, Jeter, Arod.

Anyone else game? Throw your hat in the ring and let’s start taking bets. My money is on Smoltz or AROD. But Lew has been pumping iron lately, so you never know. And he did get awfully defensive about steroids above, didn’t he? Hmmmmmm…. ye doth protest too much Lew.

Paladin will be doing the announcing with color commentators Bob Journalist and JJS.

Carolina Lady and FBG will be the ladies in the bikinis who walk around with the cards in between rounds.

By Efrim

June 24, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

GOD I LOVE THIS NEGATIVITY!!!

Not really, I am actually very p** off about the Braves. It amazes me that Brian McCann has a 698 OPS. The problem with the Braves right now is that they don’t have a young starting pitcher that will be lights out. None on the horizon. Tommy Hanson and Neftali Feliz will be here in like 2010. It amazes me that this team hasn’t developed a big time pitcher in so long.

By Over Andy

June 24, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Anyone recall a couple of years ago when Chipper in essence called out JD Drew about learning to play with injuries? JD played more games than he ever played that season.

By Miss Manners

June 24, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

JoeBrave, honey, it is impolite to speak with your mouth full or blog with your mind empty. And must you use such ugly language? Thank you, Miss Manners.

By Zep

June 24, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

ANDRUW JONES IS HITTING .221 SINCE JULY 1, 2006. THAT IS NEARLY A YEAR !

UNACCEPTABLE !

HAVE THEY CHECKED HIS VISION & URINE !

HE’S A 5 & 10 GUY. IF HE REFUSES A TRADE, BENCH HIS BUTT THE REST OF THE SEASON ! SEE HOW MUCH HE’LL BE WORTH THEN !

LET WILLIE TAKEOVER CENTER FULLTIME. PROMOTE BRANDON JONES & PUT HIM IN LEFT.

ENOUGH OF THE CHIPPER & ANDRUW SHOW !

By Chop Chop

June 24, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

“inn his mind”

Ahhhh. That’s a good typo there.

I’ll try to use paragraphs next time.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

**IS EVERYONE READY TO RUMMMMBLE!!! Just practicing.

By Ron Roberts

June 24, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Robert (JIB)… if the organization is sending him players incapable of basics like bunting and hit-and-run, why would he then ask them to perform them? It’s the organization below him; it ain’t Cox. The few times he does call on ‘em to do it, that’s on him, but it’s something he should expect they could do when called upon.

Braveheart… no matter the circumstance with which they came up, all of the Braves’ organizational talent outside of Chipper Jones and John Smoltz is struggling right now. There’s no escaping that coincidence. Since 1995, find me a bonafide Braves’ organizational player that’s been consistently *good without a dip in their productivity. I’m betting it’ll be a short list if there’s any on that list at all.

By Berigan

June 24, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Some very sad news I just read on espn, Longtime reliever Rod Beck has died! Can you believe he was only 38??? Man…Rest in pease Rod…. http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2914994

By Ron

June 24, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

Robert(JIB), and Ron Roberts I agree there is a problem with this team when young players come up and start struggling who helps to fix their problems? McCann said the other day that his dad helped him fix some of his problems!!! We have not had a Real Hitting Coach since Don Baylor!!! He was here for a year and Helped Chipper hit Right Handed, before Baylor Chipper used to not be able to do nothing Right Handed basically!!! That was 1999 and Guess what happened Chipper Jones won the MVP!!! We have never had a Real Pitching Coach to Help The Young Pitchers!!! Leo was good with the Veteran Pitchers not the Young Pitchers, most Young Pitchers did not like him!!! McDowell has done nothing here, Chuck James has only gotten worst under him, Davies is so inconsistent, and he could never fix McBride, funny thing thoug when McBride got sent down he found his command, but McDowell could not help him!!! When we find a Real Pitching Coach and Hitting Coach we will be a threat for the World Series Every Year!!! So many of our Young Players have went backwards this year!!! That is a Real Shame, and plus Andruw Could be A-Rod good if we had Kept Baylor for more than a year(although we could not keep Baylor because he went to the Cubs in 2000 to become their manager). But my point is we have to find a Hitting Coach and a Pitching Coach that can help fix these Problems because Terry Pendleton and Roger McDowell aint the answer!!! If you think they are you are only fooling yourselves!!!

By Chop Chop

June 24, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

I’m in, Braveheart.

I just happen to have a flaming, barbed wire-wrapped Louisville Slugger for the occasion. I’ll loan it to Thorman for the game. He’d probably look cool swinging that. He could hit Pudge with his backswing and start a brawl. You’d have to think that would get this team going, right?

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

Braveheart I will accept the announcer gig only if you understand that I come with a built-in bias. I will be rooting for either Smoltz or Chipper so that I can say, BRAVES WIN!! BRAVES WIN!! It has been said so seldom lately.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

while it’s possible for Lew to lose weight, your mid double digit IQ will be a life long condition.

Don, that reminds me of that classic hilarious quote from Roger Ebert of all people.

After Vincent Gallo called Ebert a fat pig after Ebert killed his Brown Bunny movie, Ebert said about Gallo, well, I might be fat, but I can always lose weight, Gallo, however, will always be the director of the Brown Bunny.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

June 24, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

I think JS may have to come to a crossraods here. I think the next two weeks are very interesting. If this team doesn’t start better, it may be time to look toward next season. We must not fool ourselves. The Mets won’t play this badly forever. While theirs starting pitching may actually be worse than ours, thier offense is too good to struggle for much longer. Much too good.

I know this will get me blasted but I don’t care. It is an option that must be at least presented. If team doesn’t get drastically better by the All-Star break I think its time to start looking to dump some salaries and get some key prospects who are either ready to play now or will be next season.

Chipper and Smoltz are lifelong Braves who should be rewarded for their loyalty. They are not trade fooder, but I will tell you who is. Renteria, Hudson, and Wickman are. I also think its time to swtich Salty to 1B full time. I would include Andruw but we all know his interest far outweigh that of the team’s and he will never agree to a trade.

While Hudson can be incosistent, his pitching ability is too good for most teams to let pass. I don’t normally think trading within the divison is good but if the Braves could get the Mets to give up Carlos Gomez and maybe even Phil Humber it is worth it. Humber is a stretch but Gomez is not. Renteria’s bat would be wanted by several teams. Would the Cubs be willing to listen to offers for Matt Murton or Sean Marshall? Rich Harden from the A’s would be nice. The Pirates would maybe give up a Gorzelany or Duke for him. The Yankees could definitely use his bat and insurance for Jeter. Injuries do happen.

Several teams could use Wickman. The Cubs could as well as the Cardinals. Lord knows the Phillies could use him. I wouldn’t mind a Shane Victorino on this team. The Red Sox could be willing to give up one of their young pitching prospects for Wickman. He would be a heck of a setup guy oppposite the Japanees kid in front of Papplebon.

All I’m saying is that either this team makes a full committment to winning or allow the young kids (Escobar, Salty, Lillibridge, Harrison, B. Jones, and Dan Smith) get some experience at the big league level.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

very, very sad about Beck. Stunning news, actually.

By Ronald Millsaps

June 24, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

I’m surprised this situation has taken place publicly. This team is one of the few class organizations in sports, and they’re never confused with the Los Angeles Lakers in terms of these blamed soap operas. I don’t think this friction is anything new. I think Chipper maybe—-maybe—-felt like his leadership influence was hurdled until Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux left. (My brother suggested this theory to me, and I think the point is more than valid.) I’m glad that, if there indeed has been mounting friction over the years, the proverbial volcano finally erupted. The question between the two is, “How will they deal with this friction?” They need to resolve it, and I think Bobby Cox should be there when it happens, serving as a moderator. In fact, I’m not convinced that the team shouldn’t be there as well to listen in. The recent losses don’t surprise me at all. I attended the Monday night win against Boston and noticed several team flaws that might’ve been camouflaged by the 9-4 score. Both guys need to stand together, as does the team, and address the poor offense and defense we’ve been seeing. On a bright note, Kyle Davies suddenly looks consistent, and the starting pitching seems to have hit fifth gear. By the way, we don’t need Mark Buehrle; a healthy Lance Cormier will suffice.

By Sir Stealth

June 24, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

Despite the invaluable reporting from DOB, reading these boards makes me consistently ashamed to be a Braves fan. Hope it’s just the nature of an internet blog, but sometimes I wonder.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

eric the elder has just called and informed the organizers of the event that he will attend the Battle Royale but he will not participate.

He will just shake his head repeatedly and let out exasperated sighs and marvel at the stupidity of youth.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop, glad you’re in on it.

This team badly needs a brawl (with the opponents, not with themselves).

By Ronald Millsaps

June 24, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

By the way, Smoltz needs to address Chipper man-to-man, not through the media. His performing the latter contradicts the persona of a man who otherwise is as professional as they come. As for Chipper’s durability, he has been the guy who has carried this offense for the past dozen years, and it disturbs me when I see Atlanta fans, who oftentimes don’t have enough baseball knowledge to provide a true home-field advantage, try to make him a scapegoat. If you’re going to boo anyone, boo these guys who are scoring no runs and collecting few hits, while waiting for the other offense, it seems, to set the game’s tempo. Boo yourselves as well.

By Ron

June 24, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

LETS GET READY TO RUMBBBBBBBBLLLLLLLLLEEEEEEEEEE!!!! IM IN!!!!!!!

By looongstroke

June 24, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Well, it’s about time somebody in that clubhouse went off !! They’ve been walking around for the past four weeks acting like it’s ok to lose . I’ve been waiting for a report of a closed door players meeting for three weeks now , but I guess noone in the clubouse, including Bobby Cox thinks that a good ol fashion cussn out would do any good. They have no fire ! This business as usual attitude that they have has gotten old as hell !!

By Efrim

June 24, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

DOB

What happens if this team loses tonights game and then goes 4-9 the next 13 games leading up to the all star break. Could this team actually be sellers at the deadline??

Do you all know how much we could get for Hudson right now??? How about Adam Miller from the Indians. Or Brandon Morrow from the Mariners.

By ElbravoX-- EbX

June 24, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

And on the 75th game, The Braves went on a ten game wining streak!

By A-ville Ranger

June 24, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

I’m watching Junior Johnson being interviewed.We’ll never see his likes again.He’s as authentic as these hills that spawned him.Asked if he had regrets,he looked squarely at the interviewer as clear eyed as Jeff Gordon or the current J Johnson(who owe so much to him) said none.Not the moon running or the racing.He went on to say that he did it his way and reckoned he was pretty good at it.Damn !! he’s a big slow talking, piece of hard bark Americana in coveralls.He’s the last of a breed….never again.

By TigerInTown

June 24, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

Kirk Gibson played in more than 150 games one time in his career. During the last 7 years of his career he never reached 500 at-bats. Yeah, that’s someone you want Chipper to emulate (sarcasm).

By bravlady

June 24, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is a pompous a*. He ought to be calling out a bunch of other players who don’t seem to be contributing a whole heck of a lot. Chipper did go out and hit a HR. Now where’s the rest of the team. Franceour swinging at crap. Andruw can’t hit for squat. McCann is hurt but giving it all he’s got. They’re all a mess to include Smoltz. He needs to stay off the golf course and get his head in the game. I agree he better not miss another start.

By Efrim

June 24, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

Even if the Braves do win tonight and sweep the Nats, is it really going to matter? This team isn’t better than the Mets, Dodgers and Padres. Those are the teams we need to beat in order to make the playoffs.

By TommyB

June 24, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

To John Schuerholz

Please do NOT be tempted to deal Saltalamacchia.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Braveheart-Dude, if I’m going to do drugs, I assure you it will be something that is pleasurable and not something that shrinks important anatomical parts.

By TommyB

June 24, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

To John Schuerholz

Please resist the temptation to deal Escobar.

By TommyB

June 24, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

To John Schuerholz

Please do consider bringing Leo back. It looks like he really is worth it after all.

By Candy Sue

June 24, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

I have served a lot of wings in my time and for my money Chipper Jones is one of the nicest customers ever to come in the restaurant. I don’t believe he would fake an injury and I do think he would do everything possible to protect his hands because his hands are all over the place when he is here. Still, he could tip a little better. I hope that Chipper’s groin feels a lot better tonight and that he will put all these bad feelings behind him and come back in for some more wings when he is feeling better.

By Robert

June 24, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

“Robert-You do realize that the last time you started this line of horsesh!t with me you ended up apologizing”

Lew - scroll back to the first post and note the :p

That meant it was a joke - Dont take yourself too seriously

And gimme a Twinkie :P

By Carolina Lady

June 24, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, I’m gonna do what??

Riiiiiight!

:-)))

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

Braveheart I thought of one other condition: I will do no on-air interviews with joebrave without a 10 second delay. Come to think of it, Joe can get in more socksn’shoes in one breath than most. Maybe a 20 second delay. Then, unfortunately, it will sound as if I am interviewing Buzz Aldrin from the moon.

New Subject. I see where some other school marm has checked in to correct my spelling of “Kurt” Gibson’s name. You knew who I was talking about—right? You knew why I was talking about him—right? So, here is an “i” and a “k” and stick ‘em where they will do the most good and get off my fing back!

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

Braveheart-Dude, if I’m going to do drugs, I assure you it will be something that is pleasurable and not something that shrinks important anatomical parts.

Well, darn, Lew. I was counting on you as the secret weapon in the Battle Royale.

Does anyone else hate road races on the NASCAR schedule as much as I do? They are so boring. TNT’s bland coverage only makes it more so.

Any word yet on how this has all shaken out yet between Smoltz and Chipper? If they even have a meeting with Bobby, I will be very disappointed in both of them. One or the other or both should have picked up the phone first thing this morning and said WTF dude? Really, that phone call should have happened last night or yesterday morning or Friday night or Friday afternoon when Chipper decided to sit.
It would probably be best not to do it over the phone. one or the other should have gone over to the other’s house and said let’s either sit down or take a walk. We’ll see. They’ve been teammates this long. This can’t be their first fight with each other. They have probably worked it out in the past.

Watching the beginning of the race now, who was the guy doing the ride along that said he was a high school classmate of Chipper Jones?

By Train Wreck Bystander

June 24, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

[sarcasm]

I hope Smoltzie remembers his comments the next time he decides to push his start back a few days or just walk off the mound in the middle of a game. Play hurt, dammit.

[/sarcasm]

By GMATCallahan

June 24, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

Those of you who are doubting Chipper’s injury-situation are just foolish. Here’s a guy who played virtually every day for nine years, and then his body started breaking down around the time that he turned 32 three years ago, which is what used to happen to players before they fortified themselves with steroids. For some other examples, see Ken Griffey, Jr., Frank Thomas, and Albert Belle in their thirties. For what it’s worth, almost no one believes that Griffey ever juiced, and in his book, steroids guru Jose Canseco clears Thomas and Belle. And then you could go back to someone like Mickey Mantle in his thirties, as well. Are you Chipper haters going to claim that the iconic Mantle also didn’t care?

Chipper Jones remains one of the elite hitters and third basemen in the game of baseball, and I’m glad that the Braves have him. It’s just that as an older player who played 150-plus games plus the playoffs for about a decade, his body has absorbed too much wear-and-tear and makes him less than durable at this point in his career. He just needs a strong backup at this point, but unfortunately, John Schuerholz traded away Wilson Betemit last summer.

By the way, all you guys siding with Smoltz should remember than he’s never been an Iron Man, either. Maddux and Glavine were the durable ones, while Smoltz spent his share of time on the Disabled List and has needed to miss or delay starts here-and-there over the last three years. So stop being fickle and childish and realize that these injuries are real. Chipper is as much a warrior as anyone, but now he’s an older, wounded warrior who needs a respectable backup. The Braves had one and them decided not to keep him.

By beki

June 24, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this

I have read elsewhere that the other MLB teams have taken notice of AJ’s woes and have devalued him as a potential player for them. Boras will have a tough time selling AJ for the big bucks he’s envisioning and hi$ percentage of it.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

Paladin, you definitely need a 30 second delay when you interview Joebrave. He comes so fast and furious, you might not get them all deleted before it hits air.

Darn, Carolina Lady is pulling out as the cardgirl. Our hearts are broken. Fine, she can be the ringside reporter. At least, you will finally get to talk to Smoltz and Chipper up close and tell them exactly what you think of ‘em. Hey, who says you gotta be professional when you sideline report. But remember what Paladin says about interviewing Joebrave.

I guess Philly Girl and Florida Braves Girl, it is up to you to be the card girls. Phillygirl, ask your boyfriend if he minds. Carolina Lady is gonna make us use a Phillies fan as the card girl. She really is letting us down.

I think she is hoping Smoltz or Chipper pullls a Joe Namath to her Suzy Kolber as she sideline reports and says, I wanna kiss you.

BTW, Paladin, classy move apologizing to MBATL for last night. MBATL, to me, is hands off because he is reasonable, classy, and never gets down in the gutter with the great lot of us. I just read his stuff and usually nod and say good point, great point, or I don’t know about that but don’t pick fights with him too much, especially not with name calling or personal attacks because he rarely violates that rule of engagement.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

C’mon Carolina Lady we are counting on you. Remember some of us ole futz haven’t seen “skin” since Christ was a Corporal. Give us a show. Please!!

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this

good post GMAT Callahan

By riprock

June 24, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

It’s good to see that the pot business is doing so well in Atlanta…There sure are a lot of bloggers here smoking their fair share of wacky weed.

By jeanE

June 24, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

This is pretty amusing watching Smoltzie & the Chipster snap at eachother…it’s nothing but frustation boiling over. Chipper is extra sensitive because he’s ALWAYS hurt & while I believe he really is hurt, he still could suck it up sometimes & doesn’t. However, Smoltz shouldn’t be airing his feelings in veiled comments to reporters. Chipper just needs to go on over to the A.L. and DH since the man still can hit but is forever injured while fielding. It’s hard to hear but that’s life, bud. You’ve led a charmed one so far. I like Yunie, let him stay & play 3rd. It is the irony of all ironies that our starting pitching blows this year & our bullpen is decent. We can’t catch a break. Small ball anyone? We will never get Mark Burhle (sp?), the Redsox or some other moneybags team will purchase him.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

JoeBrave-I don’t know about me being a Gentleman, but as always, I appreciate your having my back. Robert-Dude, I’m an old man. I don’t do emoticons.

By dirty job

June 24, 2007 6:03 PM | Link to this

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2007/06/mailbag-musical.html

Braves - Sign Cameron, let Andruw go. This has been speculated by Ken Rosenthal and others, and it makes perfect sense to me. For the Braves’ sake, hopefully a two-year contract.

Orioles - Sign Andruw Jones, let Patterson go. Could Andruw be the next face of the franchise? Miguel Tejada may be on his way out, and acquiring/signing Mark Teixeira is no small task. If the O’s get Matt Wieters signed, negotiating with Boras on a huge deal like Andruw’s seems more possible. Plus, Andy MacPhail and the Cubs have never had issues with Boras. I’ll call this one the biggest mistake.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 6:03 PM | Link to this

Braveheart I agree totally about MBATL and I was really shamed when I woke up and saw how he had responded to my drunken spoutings. His posts are among those that I read every word.

By Robert

June 24, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

You know, it’s so easy. I poke fun at one person, and seven idiots jump in to the supposed rescue, bangin their chests, dragging their knuckles, and causing all kinds of commotion in the trailer park

Relax guys. We’re laughing at you, not with you

En-ee-waaaays - curious what our lineup will look like tonight.

How long will Chipper maintain perfect attendence (I love that term Bob)

Will we hit the heck out of the ball again, or will it be too much Andrew Miller, period.

I’m sorry if I’m being facetious, but all this stuff about the team having no fire, or this or that star acting childish and surly, or who has or doesnt have control of the clubhouse

and people acting like this is new.

This is the culmination of the slow,mostly unnoticed, but steady and unrelenting slide that has been eating at away at this organization from the inside out since Mark Wolhers hung a slider to Jim Leyritz

By Bob

June 24, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Well it will be interesting to see what happens tonight. I don’t have a dog in this fight and I think both of them could have handled the situation better. But folks, if you believe John Smoltz was NOT referring specifically about Chipper in his Friday night postgame comments, you also believe in the flat earth theory. Every sports writer knew EXACTLY who he was talking about. I have zero problem with Smoltz confronting Chipper about his perception that Chipper was not gutting it out, but it should never have been done through the press. At least it should not have been done in the press until John felt it wasn’t making an impression. I am sure John was frustrated after another loss and I fully understand his frustration…after all most of the people on this blog have demonstrated similar frustration since the first week of the season.

Chipper was equally wrong for his remarks about waiting for a pitcher to make his next start. Chipper is injured too damn much, but there ain’t no way he is faking it. That grimace on the pitch prior to the home run was real…if it was not, the boy needs to be in Hollywood.

As for these comparisons with Kirk Gibson and his historic home run in the World Series, they simply do not hold up. Kirk Gibson had a total of 1 (one) plate appearance in that world series. He came in as a pinch hitter and the Dodgers needed a home run. He hit it and it was one of the most memorable World Series of all time. But Kirk Gibson did not play a second in the field and he never had another plate appearance.

Good leaders do not rip members of their team in public. It is a basic tenant of good leadership. I saw it happen too often in my Army career and I can assure you that no one had any respect for that type of leadership.

These two guys need to talk man to man and assume the leadership that this team so desperately needs. If Chipper is just playing to prove his manhood, then he is dumber than dirt. Brian McCann will look like Michael Johnson running to first base compared to Chipper with that injury. So unless he can pop one out on every pitch, I seriously doubt he will be helping the team by playing.

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this

riprock If you don’t like what you read on here don’t let the doorknob go too far up your arse as you go out to sho the hogs from under the house.

By Ron

June 24, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

Check this out from Ken Rosenthal on mlbtraderumors.com: Here’s a good one: the Brewers have “kicked the tires” on Mark Buehrle. You can never have too much pitching, I guess. It’s a long shot that Doug Melvin could pull it off without involving Yovani Gallardo or Ryan Braun, and he won’t trade those two. Without either player, the Brewers would pretty much be offering quantity over quality in terms of prospects. My own speculation: Corey Hart might intrigue Kenny Williams, but he’d be hard to part with.

Are you kidding me!!! If they trade Braun or their top pitching prospect they better fire Melvin on the Spot!!! I would not trade Hart for Buerhle either!!! I cannot believe that it will take a Very Good Prospect to trade for Buerhle!!! I hope some other team trades for Buerhle!!! Well all I know is if we trade for him JS will end up trading either Brandon Jones or Salty for that rental bum that aint gonna help us do nothing anyway, he will just prolong the suffering and get we will get knocked out of the First Round if he somehow helped us get to the Playoffs!!!

By You Never Played

June 24, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

It’s obvious some of the posters here didn’t play baseball after little league or maybe never at all. It’s not a prerequisite that a fan has to have played the game at any time. Some of the best fans never played. On the other hand, it amuses me when some post with their matter of fact assumptions over who is who and what is what and who is right and who is wrong.

There are dynamics involved with being a part of any competitive organization that some here obviously have no clue about. You don’t have to have played big league baseball to have experienced those dynamics, but you have had to at least played ball on a higher competitive level than little league.

I think you can tell by the content of a person’s post if they have a clue or if they don’t.

Many here don’t have even a hint of a clue.

By Lew

June 24, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

Yeah-Let’s ship everyone off to Baltimore-The City Where Baseball Careers Go To Die. Examples are too numerous to mention.

By chas

June 24, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

Hey Chipper, I played for years hurt and didn’t get paid a dime. You don’t want to play hurt then go home and play with mama. You a wimp buddy

By chas

June 24, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

Hey Chipper, I played for years hurt and didn’t get paid a dime. You don’t want to play hurt then go home and play with mama. You a wimp buddy

By RickBurgess

June 24, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this

Poor Chipper, he feels pressured to play.

Isn’t he getting paid to play ?????

I wonder if Chipper ever heard of Cal Ripken.

By Carolina Lady

June 24, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,
“Darn, Carolina Lady is pulling out as the cardgirl. Our hearts are broken. Fine, she can be the ringside reporter. At least, you will finally get to talk to Smoltz and Chipper up close and tell them exactly what you think of ‘em. Hey, who says you gotta be professional when you sideline report.”

Now, Braveheart. I’d be a fine ringside reporter! Don’t you know that a Southern woman knows more about how to talk to those of the male gender before she’s 3 years old than any other people on the planet??
:-))

By N8

June 24, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

Guys, guys, GUYS!

Why don’t you guys at least have dignity to call each other out, man 2 man. Airing your dirty laundry through the media (OK, Blog) is so……Chipper/Smoltz!

Grow up.

:-)

By fastasballs

June 24, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

This game should be interesting regardless of the play on the field or the score.

Another night of Morgan & Miller speading their lack of knowledge to a national audience. The only question is who’s butt they will kiss the most. Will it be the Tigers? Smoltz? Chipper? Or their standard brown nosing of the Yanks & Sox? Maybe a wild card thrown in.

Andruw gets to slide under the radar for a while with the Smoltz/Jones war of words ongoing.

The Braves will either tank or take off. This little fued will either be praised or blamed for the rest of the season as what started the surge or downfall. I have no idea which way things will shake out. I’m not choosing up sides because I have followed both of their careers closely & know both have been intregal parts of this team’s success over the years.

By Ron

June 24, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

Bob, agree with your 6:07 post!!! When I first read Smoltz comments on Friday, I thought did I read that correctly!!! I read again and thought Chipper is not going to let this go!!! I knew the comments were to Chipper, I figure DOB probably thought that it was toward Chipper and 80% of this Blog knew it was towards Chipper!!! No doubt about it!!! Anybody that thought it was towards someone else, needs to learn how to read CORRECTLY, AND Make sense of what they read!!!

By riprock

June 24, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

Paladin, thanks for proving my point.

By Allen

June 24, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

How about Yunel and a prospect for Buehrle, Thorman and a prospect for Aaron Cook in Colorado? Our 1 through 5 would be Smoltz, Hudson, Buehrle, Cook, and James. Then have Salty’s bat in the lineup playing first.

By Bob

June 24, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

N8 :-)

By Ron

June 24, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this

Whats Chippers next injury: I would guess he will miss half a year with a Groin Injury after taking care of some business with his wife!!! LOL!!!

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

Lew, Bob Journalist, JJS, and Paladin, which one of you is gonna be the Bert Sugar for tonight’s ESPN broadcast breaking down all the great fights in Atlanta Braves history? You will have to be willing to wear a hat like Bert and chew on a cigar like Bert too!

CL, great point, you Southern belles are professionals at the art and science of talking with a man from before you can even utter a word.

By Braveheart

June 24, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this

Grow up.

y’all know who is talking about me. what do y’all think? yeah, exactly. but you better tell that certain somebody to never dare take a game off the blog or to ever show some immaturity on here. i’m just gonna keep posting on here everyday like I have no life and like I don’t want to grow up ‘cause he is forcing me to.

It’s good to see that the pot business is doing so well in Atlanta…There sure are a lot of bloggers here smoking their fair share of wacky weed.

well, what is this certain somebody trying to say about me? who did y’all think he was calling out with that? I better never see that certain somebody ever in a drug bust or uttering anything on here incoherent. Well, I’m just gonna keep smoking for the rest of the year ‘cause he forced me.

By Bob

June 24, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

New blog is up!

By N8

June 24, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this

*Ron Roberts

Nice points in your 3:02 post.

However, as I pointed out yesterday. If we’re still talking about KJ’s inability to lay down that bunt, you need to think of where he was batting in the order, in AAA.

On that note, I’ve always felt that the minor leagues should be where guys learn things, not where managers try and WIN GAMES. Who gives a rat’s a$$ who wins the International League Title? Not me.

So it’s up to the organization (GM) to instruct his AA and AAA managers on how to handle certain players.

For instance, JS could call his AAA manager and say:

“I realize that Marcus Giles is your #3 hitter in your lineup, and a damn productive one. However, the odds of him EVER being in that spot in the ATLANTA BRAVES batting order are slim to none, with the guys that are already up here and gonna be here a while. If Giles is to make our roster as a 2B, he more than likely will be hitting at the top of the order, or at the bottom of it. We would appreciate it, if you instruct and guide him on how to bunt properly, for when he gets here, he will be expected to do so. Tell him, I appologize for the dent this will put in how many Minor League RBI’s he accumulates.”

That same “conversation” could easily apply to KJ as well.

By Bob, Journalist

June 24, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

William Wallace,

I never cottoned much to booing the actors in a play because folks didn’t like the way the producer found his angel.

When folks do their best, … they’re done their best. When I go over tthe line, as I sometimes do, I can understand folks getting on my back … but I don’t think they’re being fair when they call me names just because my stuff’s not as good as yours, or Jimmy’s or Scoots!

Goodness, don’t they know I already know that … methinks there are better ways of letting me know … maybe some that might even help me get better.

If Chipper, and John, and everybody knows why it is they’re being booed … then if it’s for something they elected to do, then booing might be an acceptable way of telling that … it just depends on what it is they did.

I totally agree agreed that to say what he said sounds weak and directionally agree with what you said … but, we see it on the Blog every, folks being goaded into saying something they shouldn’t … I do that without being goaded, and get away with it because folks know I don’t know any better … but that’s different.

Tain’t easy McGee, understanding why folks do what they do … that’s for maybe! But, like I said earlier, in all the wrong places, we do need to try and understand, hard as it is, especially when folks surprise us with what they say or do! The why is more more important than the what … more interesting too!

You can’t fault Hoss for being Hoss, he’s a victim of circumstance. You can hit him up side the head or step on his toes if that’s what it takes to get him to behave … but, it’s best that you’re bigger and meaner than he is if you so do… unless you’re the block off which he’s a chip!

I figgure Jeff’s just a young Chipper … but I think he listens to boos …still I dont like them.

Reflecting, I think your “boos” are aimed in the wrong direction … it’s them whats coaching and managing that need to made aware that the leadership and direction don’t seem to be what it could and shoild be … not sure traditional booing is the answer.

The problem is that Doc has a mighty large flock and the Media is quite deft in being able to seduce them in getting them to support their agenda … they’re the activists, we’re the apathetic believers … minority booing is unlikely to cut it … there has to be another way … maybe it’s blogging.

Glenn Hubbard seems how to get the job done … you can do a lot with young tallent, things they themselves cannot do … and you can throw away all that garbage about not being able to make hores drink the water … you might not be able to, but there are folks that can!

That is, while you may not have ivory handled revolvers with which to get the job done, there are those who do.

Just don’t boo my players, leastwise not them what’s doing the best they can!

Sometimes, when I just think people are being plain stupid, I remember what Mama said about stupid being what stupid does … and that hepls put it into perspective … they’re pobably Pepsi drinkers!

By Paladin

June 24, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

Bob I respect your posts and not just because you out rank me. How do I know that? On an earlier post you said you retired on 30. I retired on 23—17 as an officer and 6 as enlisted. That 6 may account for some of my more colorful language. Anyway, I feel you are wrong to bring in military similarities, and here’s why.

If I am flying missions(and I did) with dysentery so bad that I s#$t my pants before I got out of the chocks, I wouldn’t have a lot of cotton candy for some slug that got a “no fly” chit from the flight surgeon because he had a “cold”. Would I call him out publically—you bet!! I would say at the o’club bar, “Hey (one of joebraves expletives deleted), if you are going to stay back here doggin’ it, why don’t you wash my fing underwear?” Does that sound like a true story? I’ll leave that to your imagination.

Very respectfully submitted,

Paladin, USMC, retired

By Robert

June 24, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

Marines always did have more mouth than brains

By dirty job

June 24, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this

stinky saidApparently he thinks it’s his charming personality that endeared him to the fans (ask the former Mrs. Smoltz about that) and not his slider and fastball.

what does that mean?

By serbok

June 24, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this

Way to Go WOODY!!!! I mean BOBBY!!!!

By Savannah Guy

June 24, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

After a few days off from baseball and blogging (and work and travel), I’ve just caught up (mostly) on the last few days of DOB articles and your posts. As usual, it’s all over the map with posts ranging from the brilliant to the absurd…and some really funny and stupid stuff as usual. Then I came across yours…

By The Truth Hurts 1:34 AM post: “…Savannah Guy, recap all the nonsense.” Hey Truth Hurts, thanks. It’s nice to be remembered and even more gratifying to be requested, since many bloggers would rather talk at than talk with. Don’t know if I have one of my “Blogger Recaps” in me tnight, but I’ll try a new angle on the denizen forum for now. Besides, after my 1:48 post earlier which ran, um…longish, I’ll try and be more succinct. For you multi-taskers to enjoy during the game, which is going ok so far, here have:

THE SAVANNAH BASE-BLOG AWARDS

This is the first in a series of the Best, Worst and Somewhere Betwixt the two on recent baseball, blogging and other eclectic, timely and admissible* subjects. To enter in the competition, just become a Braves baseball player or manager, post something on DOB’s blog or just catch my attention in the wild world of music, food and such.

MOST CONSISTENT: You know what he’s going to do. Winner: Andruw Jones. Note to winner: try not to be so consistently bad.

BEST POLITICAL ADVICE: Winner: DOB (just say no and put a sock in it).

MOST UNWILLING TO “TAKE” A HIT: Winner: Kelly Johnson. Whatever happened to the double play? KJ, you look scared, man. Remember Javy? He would take the throw home from halfway to the pitchers mound to avoid a hit.

MOST UNABLE TO “GET” A HIT: Winner: A Jones. Hands down.

WORST BASEBALL ANNOUNCER: Winner: Joe Morgan

BEST (NEW) MUSIC RECOMMENDATIONS: Winners: Hank Dogs, “Rise”, Modest Mouse, “We were dead before the ship even sank” and the new album by the Shins, “Wincing the night away” (all chosen by yours truly cause I have home-field advantage). Also, Whitesnake and White Stripes (haven’t heard these white albums yet but they seem to be popular to more than a few denizens).

MOST UNWILLING TO PUT DOWN THE CHEESEBURGER: Winner (3 way tie): McCann, A Jones, Wicky. Note to winners: salads and exercise can do wonders for athletic ability and injury avoidance.

BEST PITCHING: Winner: John Smoltz. Duh.

WORST PITCHING: Winner (log jam tie): Hudson and every other pitcher other than already mentioned.

BEST BBQ RECOMMENDATION: Winner: Carolina Lady. Love that vinegar slaw version.

BEST HITTING: Winner: Renteria.

BEST AT EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS: Winner (5-way tie): Harris, Salty, Soriano, Diaz, Moylan.

BEST AT JUST MEETING EXPECTATIONS: Winner (4-way tie): C Jones, Wickman, Yates, Villarreal.

MOST COLORFUL POSTS: Winner: Joe Brave. By the way, where the F*%# are you?

MOST UNDERACHIEVING: Winner: (4-way tie) Frenchy, McCann, K Johnson, Thorman.

MOST UNREGRETTABLE LOSS: Winner: Redman.

BEST WIT AND HUMOR: Winner: Journalist Jimmy Smith. Hands down. Almost always witty to downright hilarious. Thumb jamming, toe stomping funny.

MOST POETIC PONTIFICATING: Winner: Bob, Journalist. Note: You good sir, also get the special award for self-deprecation. Get some sleep then you won’t try sooo hard and take it all so seriously. Seriously.

BEST AT SOMEHOW KEEPING THEIR JOBS: Winner (2-way tie): Woodward, Orr.

MOST TALKED ABOUT DIGITS: Winner: Chipper Jones. Watch those toes and thumbs.

BEST TURNAROUND: Winner: Robert. He’s gone from blog pariah to pertinent participant. Gone are the endless Donk references. Agree with him or not, he’s now posting some good stuff on the game. Note to winner: just don’t let Lew get you off your game.

BEST TARGET SHOOTING: Winner: John Smoltz.

BEST QUOTE ON TARGET SHOOTING: Winner: George Will, syndicated columnist, for his words, “Leadership is, among other things, the ability to inflict pain and get away with it - short-term pain for long-term gain.”

BEST PLAYER DEVELOPMENT NL MANAGER: Winner: Bobby Cox

WORST GAME STRATEGY AND PLAYOFF MANAGER: Winner: Bobby Cox

BEST HEADLINE: “The NL Least” Winner: Our very own David O’Brien (aka DOB).

MOST STATISTICAL POSTS: Winner: Shaun. Who else?

BIGGEST MELTDOWN: Winner: Andruw Jones…Hands-down. Note: Mendoza was understandable. He is not.

MOST LIKELY TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS: Winner: Any starting pitcher that is breathing.

By joebrave

June 24, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this

Miss Manners,I have let you go once but twice is out of my boudaries,soooo,Before you call out Big Joe you little corner dwelling,street slug,be sure you have the legitimate and licensed means to debate mouthfuls with and by the way,that mouthful you have now ya better spit it out it does’nt belong to you!!!!

By Berigan

June 24, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

Wow.

By Rick Roberts

June 25, 2007 8:31 AM | Link to this

I love John Smoltz!! About time someone called Chipper out—the spoiled one who is always ‘hurt.’ This goes to the chemistry of the team which is always a major underlying cause of team performance. This team is underperforming in a big way—someone needs to step forward and call it like it is—Bobby and JS won’t! Everyone dances around Chipper, it appears. Chipper can hit—he needs to go to the AL and, soon! Escobar can replace him and is always ready to play. Again, AJ has to go—the Jones boys are just bringing this team down. Neither one can be counted on and everyone on the team knows it. JS, it’s about time to move both of them—no, it’s way past time. This team is in the toilet and major changes are needed. Maybe Smoltz is the one who can force some changes—it’s not too late yet, but, it will be soon if someone doesn’t do something.

By GunnerFlynch

June 25, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Smoltz and Chipper are BOTH over the hill and should both be cut from the team. They are both overpaid prima donas who feel they are Gods gift to humanity. Ill never forget how Smoltz engineered his infamous contract negotiation with John Shuerholtz by making dehumanizing and disrespectful comments about Shuerholtz by referring to Shuerholtz as the “homeboy” upstairs. That comment should have gotten Smoltz kicked off the team but instead got him the money that he wanted all along. Chipper is someone who has passed his prime and should step aside so that the younger players can take his roster spot and develop. Chipper is always hurt and is never in the lineup to protect Andrew and help the Braves sustain prolonged winning streaks. Chipper and Smoltzie have passed their prime and should be removed from the Braves roster.