Braves

By Braveheart

June 27, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

The early bird gets the worm but the early bird eats alone.

By rupert

June 27, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

DOB, are the braves being active on the trade front or are they sitting pat for right now?

By Patrick

June 27, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Good Blog DOB,

Interesting to see how those two are doing outside of Atlanta…not too well…

And yeah, see ya Thorman, we hardly knew ye

By Zoldars

June 27, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

OK. As t his is my first DOB post i must say

I think we should keep salty and develop him at first this year. No trade, no way.

I love YUNEL, BUT seeing as we have quite a bit of potential infield prospects in the near future, I would be OK trading him for pitching help.

I also would like to see us make a run at the rangers reliever…okan or whatever it is. HE seemed great last year in the closer role and come next year having the nasty beast Soriano, hopefully having GonZo, yates, (prob. no Wick) and the rangers guy would be sweet. I also think we should trade for one more nasty hard throwing reliever.

And just for speculative purposes, the teams inquiring about Salty- what did they want to trade?

As always, i love your blogs and you and Sekou are the only writers I like at the AJC. so thanks

By Bull Meechum

June 27, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Someone likes opening up cans of worms.

By Lee

June 27, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

DOB -

Yes Madolyn Smith Osborne (lost beauty of Urban Cowboy-Pam) was hot.

LaRoche or Giles trade did nothing to hurt the Braves and the team may still benefit from the LaRoche trade in the long run. Gonzalez will come back and Lillibridge may become a quality player. I was never a true Giles (little hotdog as I called him) fan.

By Eric from MO

June 27, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Kelly is better than Giles and Thorman is doing better than LaRoche. Good moves. Too bad that Gonzo is out for the season though.

By Ron

June 27, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

I am glad Buerhle is nearing a contract extension with the White Sox, because I think JS would have probably gave Kenny Williams a Good Batch of prospects for Buerhle!!! Too good of prospects for Buerhle!!!

By BossLady

June 27, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Okay, let’s just wait a while and let them play. All the shuffling of lineups and trade talk I think has hurt the confidence of the team. Brian is doing much better now that Salty is playing 1st, see.

By Bob

June 27, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

DOB, Any word on KJ starting tonight or not?

By journalist jimmy smith

June 27, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

oh, the humanity! escobar can’t sit but kelly can? how about andruw? kelly is hitting about 70 points higher than andruw, right? and chipper jones is not hitting with runners on? who bats after chipper, anyway? and whither carroll rogers? and who will be chipper’s primary hunting partner with laroche gone and what day do chipper and this huntin’ buddy plan to go a huntin’? last day of the regular season? last day of the nlds? oh, the humanity! what if the new huntin’ buddy is wicky? imagine wicky in the woods with a high powered rifle and uh, chipper jones. or better yet, soriano! chipper may never come out of the uh, woods. and who will autograph the dead animals? and does michael vick have a signature dog? oh, the humanity!

By ncscoots

June 27, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Lillibridge may be all that, but he hasn’t exactly raked this year with the bat, at either AA or AAA.

BTW, David, don’t look now, but your Milwaukee Brewers: best record in the NL, after their bump in the road earlier this year.

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

i think yunel is gonna go just as wilson did. Im not sure of why (or maybe i dont want to mention it )but i think he is the one that is leaving the team. Cant we trade woodward and orr for a bench coach or someone that sparks this team?

By Mitchie-san

June 27, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

wow, Im never near the top of a blog.

By Hammer 44

June 27, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Hey, DOB, be careful, Your blog might re-ignite the Chipster’s temper. Maybe Smoltz should’ve called him out.

And do you think the brain trust may panic and give up too much to make a headline-grabbing trade for pitching? I’d hate to give away promising kids like Salty and Esco for an arm that could blow at any time.

By Shaun

June 27, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

I understand the idea of clutch stats but, as you probably all know, I believe they are overrated.

Chipper Jones isn’t hitting well so far this season with runners in scoring position. But look what he’s doing with nobody on: .386 AVG/.446 OBP/.723 SLG. He’s also hit 7 solo homers.

He’s hitting .372 AVG/.449 OBP/.558 SLG with runners on first.

When you’re that good with runners not in scoring position, you are still helping your team score a lot of runs.

And, by the way, in his 5 PA with a runner on third only, he has 1 H, 3 BB, 1 HR.

By Tomas

June 27, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Tell me DOB, what would you do if you were manager, will you bench kelly, or platoon him with Escobar. Or maybe make willy play second and platoon with Escobar and make Diaz an everyday player. What would you do?

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

We did good against the brewers, have done well against the padres and the mets dont remember if we already played the dodgers……..all i know our problem was the inability to beat the nats (maybe a sweep tonight), the pirates and the heart of the AL. And I think all those problems might be already solve as we dont have to play the american league again. We might been witnessing the start of a turnaround, so dont miss a game the next couple of weeks.

By Shaun

June 27, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Oh, Chipper’s numbers with runners on 2nd and 3rd: .333/.500/1.333. Pretty amazing.

So Chipper is hitting in several key situations: runners only on 2nd and 3rd, runners only on 3rd, with men on he’s doing pretty well (.252/.366/.476).

This could be yet another indicator that most players don’t have an innate ability to hit or not in the clutch.

Seems if Chipper truly was a bad clutch hitter this season, he wouldn’t hit well in any clutch situation.

By Tomas

June 27, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

The reason chipper is not hitting a lot with runners in scoring position, is because pitchers are pitching around him, they’re not afraid of a struggling mccan or andruw. That’s my theory.

By ElbravoX-- EbX

June 27, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

DOB-

The Braves scheduled starters for the Dodgers series? I have tix for all games but can only go to three. Dude, I know we don’t see eye-to-eye at times, but show me some love, please! Yeah, I feel ignored in the old blog.

By Chipper Jones

June 27, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Hey jimmy. I, uh, got uh new huntin’ buddy. His name is Dick Chenney. Poor fella said he couldn’t find nobody with which to shoot.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 27, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

and today’s winning tee shirt slogan is from brad smith. it is: “cowbell? gotta have more dob”. yes, that’s right, “cowbell? gotta have more dob”. congratulations are in order for brad smith. brad wins nothing tangible, though. not even a tee shirt.

with slogans like “cowbell? gotta have more dob” in favor, journalist understands why baby seal has become so discouraged. jimmy smith will send in another entry for baby seal today. “cow patty? just more from dob” oh, the humanity! jimmy smith is sure to be banned! and stinky is back! jimmy smith gone and stinky returned! the humiliation! dead monkey report: on saturday, a monkey will throw out the first pitch in fenway. yep, a monkey. live monkey, not dead. if this monkey can throw strikes the braves might inquire …

By scott

June 27, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

Tell me DOB, what would you do if you were manager, will you bench kelly, or platoon him with Escobar. Or maybe make willy play second and platoon with Escobar and make Diaz an everyday player. What would you do?

Platoon Harris and Escobar at 2nd so we can use a player with an 824 OBPS over 270 at bats so far as a pinch hitter?

Wow… what does a player have to do to impress you?

By BamaBrave

June 27, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Yep…Chipper’s clutch hitting is woeful, but at least he owned up to it last night on FSN in a quick little interview. Contrast that with Andruw’s ongoing “What Me Worry?” demeanor…sheesh.

Regarding trades and moves… Jim Leyland may say “hogwash” to the notion that team chemistry is important to good play, but I gotta believe it’s more critical when your team is full of 22-25 year olds like the Braves. These trades and call-ups must shake things up in the clubhouse to some degree. We flopped some after Langerhans was jettisoned…I think Salty got in McCann’s head just a wee bit. Maybe Thorman’s too. I’m with BossLady…the sooner we can settle on a regular lineup, the sooner we’ll start playing above-average ball.

Easier said than done…

By DAP

June 27, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

interesting blog, DOB.

count me among those who dont understand what appears to be a developing platoon with KJ and Escobar. it doesnt really make sense to me (unless were trading escobar) and i dont think it a good idea for kelly.

I DO think it makes sense to bat KJ lower in the order, though. willie is a good fit for the leadoff spot right now, and KJ has potential to be a good run producer.

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

ElbravoX— EbX all i know is buddy is starting 1st game dont know about other 2 but i will have to guess its smoltz and then kyle.

By ncscoots

June 27, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

jjs, I don’t know that congrats are in store for our bud Brad Smith. Being acknowledged for a slogan such as that, well, I think I’d call that more of a mercy win.

100 dead monkeys typing on 100 typewriters for 100 years might, just might, mind you, come up with something as feeble…

Nah.

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

willie is to stay in the OF …….CF an LF

Matt to play lf and rf

let those 2 play more for higher batting avg lineups.

By snowball's chance

June 27, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

This just in from MLB. The website for MLB crashed early this afternoon. Technicians think they have narrowed down the cause as the unprecedented write-in vote for an obscure player for the Dodgers, Wilson Betemit.

By Stinky

June 27, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

jimmy smith, it wasn’t me.

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

i agree, KJ should bat 5th behing salty or brian then jeff then or matt.

By Salty

June 27, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

Mitchie-San You’re never near the top because the blog was posted today…and you’re already tomorrow! :-)

By KW

June 27, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

I am not a fan of the platoon with KJ, but at least Bobby is not platooning KJ with the god awful Woodward.

Whatever we do we should not trade Salty!

By Shaun

June 27, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

Not saying situational hitting isn’t a good thing but I believe baseball is less a situational game than we may think.

The Angels, Yankees, Brewers and Marlins all rank 18th or worse in MLB in OPS with runners in scoring position. The Brewers and Marlins rank in the bottom half in AVG with RISP. Yet they are all in the top 10 in runs scored.

Four teams isn’t a huge amount, but you would think a team would pretty much have to hit well with RISP in order to be one of the best offensive clubs in baseball. But that isn’t so.

By az_braves_fan

June 27, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

DOB- Great BLOG today. And yes the girl in Urban Cowboy was smokin’ hot!!!

By beachcomber

June 27, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

DOB - Thought provoking piece. Think the Braves were winners in both deals especially given Salty’s breakout game last night. KJ has been more than adequate - not mention affordable. Being the opotomist, I think Gonzalez will come back next year (but I also thought Hampton was good for 10-12 wins this season).

Notice you did not analyze the third major move in the off season HoRam for Soriano - maybe too much of a slam dunk to even consider.

Last thought. No one wants to trade Salty. I feel just as strongly about Escobar. Granted we have several good middle infield prospects in the chain. I just have a feeling Yunel might be several pegs above good when all is said and done

By pinkygonzales

June 27, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Is it at all possible that the Braves are playing Escobar not to showcase him for a potential trade, but to see if KJ is expendable? Which of those two would have more trade value? If Escobar proves himself able to play everyday, bat leadoff against left- handers, while batting lower in the order against righties and allowing willie to leadoff, could we trade KJ and get more in return? as DOB said earlier, he is making the major league minimum. Escobar is no baby, either, at 24 years old, but he doesn’t have as much MLB service time as KJ. Is there a market out there for KJ?

By monkey

June 27, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

k3$nnod9a02^sma109jL$$cbxPETEORRvcQ!!7bCeoPp63#VbXss”,~99dFJRRiOj:wRRspTu4

By Enough

June 27, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

I think what is often overlooked is the speed factor. Kelly J. doesn’t give you that as Willy and Escobar can at the top of the order. Kelly seems like he would thrive in the six or seven hole. The two guys mentioned at the top would create a little more havoc with thier speed and create more rbi chances for everyone.

By David O'Brien

June 27, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

El Bravo, won’t know Dodgers starters until Bobby decides on Friday, whether to skip Davies or not. Which we’ll know soon.

I’ll know the lineup as soon as I get to the clubhouse in five minutes, but unfortunately there’s no way to post, as my laptop will be up here in the pressbox and my person will be downstairs. Sorry about that.

I’d play Kelly, in answer to the question. At least against most lefties, I would. And all righties.

By lynn

June 27, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

Can you imagine if we actually had a clean up hitter that made contact how potent this lineup would be? Seriously, if Andrew comes back and has a monster 2nd half, we be strokin’. I agree to not trade Salty! I think the offense he could provide would make up for his lack of experience fielding 1st base.

By rammerjammer

June 27, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

Shaun, thanks for those RISP figures. I’ve always been suspicious of that stat, and became even more so when the Braves early-on had all those two-out rallies and then later couldn’t buy a clutch hit. What…everyone starting choking??? Of course not. Your stats verify RISP is a largely useless bit of information.

By todd

June 27, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

DOB - dude have ajc get you a blackberry!

By Stinky

June 27, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

If anyone cares, they can see what Madolyn Smith Osborne (the smokin’ hot chick from Urban Cowboy) looks like today by going to www.drewmarshall.ca/pics.html.

But it’s not 1981 anymore…

By Ron Roberts

June 27, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

I won’t pretend to understand the thinking of playing Yunel Escobar over Kelly Johnson after Cox says its hard not to play him.

First off, he’s struggled, offensively, of late. Secondly, he hits no better against lefties than Kelly Johnson had been.

The only rational thinking is Kelly needs the occasional break after a long off-season preparing for a new position. He’s not played everyday baseball in almost two years up until this season, so I can understand some fatigue getting to him.

So if that’s the case, I don’t understand why Bobby doesn’t just say that instead of making some case for his benching as opposed to Escobar. Wasn’t a wise choice of words, I say. Kid’s giving all he’s got, doing fairly well at it, and hadn’t been taking these occasional days off personally, until now. Uh oh.

By Emilio

June 27, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

Ai Chihuahua! Whoops! Cubans don’t say that. But, it is hot and spicy to consider the possibilities of trading for a first tier starter. I believe it is our number one need and think JS is in line with me! I tremble at the thought of JS sending either Yunel or Salty on down the road without obtaining a legit ace! It will take more than one of these up and coming dudes to swing a deal. I’m okay with it, but it needs to be a legit number two or three starter. Yes, I know, arms do blow up, “But that’s baseball!”

If we can’t swing it, then damn the cojones! And on we go building for next year! Without AJ, please!

By Roper

June 27, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

Does Kelly have enough arm strength to play the outfield?

How about put him in right, move Frenchy to center, and let Andruw sit for a while.

By Aaron

June 27, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

We cant trade Yunel if we wanted to just because old man Jones might go down with another little cut on his hand and we need him to play third. Just the possibility of him going down make you not want to trade. Think about it, do you want Chris Woodward as your starter at third?

By Renegator

June 27, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

Give em hell down there DOB!

By ncscoots

June 27, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

Actually, Escobar is not much of a base-stealing threat, if that’s one of your criteria for leadoff hitters. It isn’t for me.

Escobar hit leadoff because that caused the least disruption to a lineup, that’s all. Not because he’s raking (he’s not, he’s hitting OK, but nothing super), or because he has a great OBP (he doesn’t, just middling).

Most folks here know I have a very high regard for Escobar, but even I don’t understand taking ABs away from Kelly. OK, maybe against extremely tough lefties, but Bacsik last night hardly qualifies as that.

By flange1

June 27, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

I am trying to understand the playing of Escobar over KJ. I do understand KJ is not hitting real well against lefties, but he has shown he CAN hit lefties.

I wonder if Bobby is POed with KJ over the missed bunt or something else.

By scott

June 27, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

I don’t think an occasional day off bothers Johnson. I think it’s the whole “We may platoon you from now on” thing that has gotten to him. Again, he’s been great this year. I’d be a little discouraged too if I were him.

By ElbravoX-- EbX

June 27, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB…Adding my two pesos on Kelly: There is no way Mr.Cox will have three platoons and risk two catchers doing so. Pena has to come up. Sorry Orr, it’s time to exercise your first option. Smoltz 8 innings, Chipper goes yard, twice! Back to the hustle…

By Tomas

June 27, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

This is how I think the Braves will be better off right now:

• 2B Willy Harris/Yunel Escobar
• SS Edgar Renteria
• 3B Chipper Jones
• CF Andruw Jones
• C Brian McCann
• RF Jeff Franceour
• LF Matt Diaz
• 1B Jarrod Saltalamacchia(sorry if I spelled wrong.)
• Pitcher

May I remind you Diaz hasn’t dissapoint the braves never, his always been consistent. This will also add much needed speed to the lineup.

By Chipper's Proctologist

June 27, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Good point Aaron. I definitely don’t want to see Woodward at 3rd. Why is he even still on the team?? He must have some dirt on Bobby Cox. That’s the only explanation I can think of.

And for the record, there is NO WAY I’d trade Salty. This guy is a beast. Players like him don’t come along every day or even every season for that matter.

By Kentavo

June 27, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

I’ve noticed the Chipper does the Francouer when he comes up in RISP situations. Very impatient. He often hits it hard, but right at somebody. Maybe he’s trying to catch the pitcher off guard. In the past, he’d work a walk, but maybe he knows the void that is Andruw is behind him, so he’s pressing to get something done so the team doesn’t have to watch the horror that is A.J. a the plate.

By Kentavo

June 27, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

I’ve noticed the Chipper does the Francouer when he comes up in RISP situations. Very impatient. He often hits it hard, but right at somebody. Maybe he’s trying to catch the pitcher off guard. In the past, he’d work a walk, but maybe he knows the void that is Andruw is behind him, so he’s pressing to get something done so the team doesn’t have to watch the horror that is A.J. a the plate.

By Tomas

June 27, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Elbravo, youre right, Orr will be designated for assingment, because he doesnt ha ve more options, and will bring pena up. Salty will be the new first baseman, and hopefully for a long time.

By BossLady

June 27, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

As hard as KJ worked the off-season to get the starting 2nd base job, it should be no reason to platoon him at all since his average and OBP is pretty good. He is not getting the favor that AJ is getting for a shorter slump.

By Luther

June 27, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

I wonder how much we are reading into everything between KJ/Escobar/Cox. I think the main reason that the Braves chose to leave Escobar in the minors to start the season(instead of say Orr or Woodward)was that they wanted him playing everyday and continuing to develop, not that he wasn’t as good as those two. With Chipper the way he’s been, they obviously can’t send him down, not gonna bench Chipper if he’s willing to play, KJ has been struggling, why not give him a few days for Kelly. I think that might have been what Bobby meant when he said he couldn’t “not play” Escobar. He never likes to sit anyone too long and Escobar was 0 for 14 or so, so it makes sense to get him a few at bats. With Kelly remaining the regular. Either way, I like Escobar’s fire and one aspect you can’t compare with KJ is the cannon he has.

By MBATL

June 27, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

I think we’re overthinking the KJ/Escobar thing a little.

KJ has been slumping (2 for 20 in his last 7 games, with 9 K’s and 0 extra base hits; and just .188 in his last 19 games);

And actually, since May 1 (49 games), KJ is at .246/.321/.385, a .706 OPS. That’s kinda tough from your leadoff man.

And of course, the Braves have not been scoring.

Cox said “It’s nothing against Thorman and nothing against Kelly. It’s just when you score one run in five days, you want to shake things up a little bit.”

Cox gets blamed for being too loyal. I guess having watched AJ produce for 12 years, he’s earned more loyalty than KJ. And I’m not defending AJ - just guessing about Cox’s logic in benching KJ for a while, while AJ plays through.

By Dave knockahomer

June 27, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

well, escobar is starting at second tonight…AGAIN! Cox says he can’t stand to sit him…..well, why can’t he stand to sit Andruw? Agree with others…off season trade was so-so…..but my main concern is KJ. He has worked his butt off and is rewarded by being benched. Ever since he got on Cox’s bad side he has been on the bench. Da__shame they can’t do the same to Andruw.
Things are confusing…..as usual some of Cox’s moves are personal more than anything else. But it doesn’t matter, cause no matter who wins this division, that will be all they will win…..the AL is far to superior as we have seen in interleague. I WANT KJ BACK AT SECOND! Escobar is great but let him spell Chipper. oh well…..hell, its baseball. We ain’t going far but….its baseball. Beats winter time blues

By Bob, Journalist

June 27, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

Listening to some of the comments, you’d think we thought …

What do you mean embarrassing me in front of all these people … they’ll think I told you to bunt with two strikes … now get down to the end of the bench. I don’t have time for this now … ‘Druw’s, up, come on Kid!

Wow,what some folks think, other folks say … I remember back in the early days of direct mail insurance; a company having to pay a $5,000 death claim on a gold fish … courts ruled the owner simply played by the rules of the game and submitted the application, ‘twas the company’s underwriting selection process that was suspect.

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

i like that move peña for orr

By rotomeister

June 27, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

David, why is Cox doing something so out of character? He’s usually loyal to a fault for guys slumping. Just look at Frenchy! No matter how poorly he performs, he remains. As the Sporting News noted today, after a hot start he has returned to being overaggressive and his batting average has dropped. Why is Kelly being jerked around like this when he has done such a good job? Even with the slump, the on base percentage is 5th highest. Just a three or four weeks ago he ranked second to Jose Reyes for the most times reaching bases this season. It is hard for me to understand. And I certainly don’t understand why 39$ of the people in the poll think Escobar has done something to start over Kelly. Like I wrote here this morning. Before last night he was 0 for his last 12. Not exactly a hot hand. Doing something like this to a player can have a real short-term and long-term detriment. I hope Cox knows what he’s doing, but this time I personally do not agree.

By scott

June 27, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

Tomas

What’s your problem with KJ anyway? Other than Chipper, he’s the most disiplined hitter we have. He hits for average (His average hasn’t dropped below 270 since the first week of the year), leads the team in walks, has great base running speed (6 triples), has some pop and has scored the second most runs behind renteria. Not to mention he is good in the clutch too (almost 40 RBI’s for a lead off hitter).

Johnson has been great this year… what has he done to make you think that he isn’t a keeper?

By rotomeister

June 27, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this

Unlike some other here, I do not question Cox loyalty to Andruw. He has a long track record. I would compare his treatment of Kelly, here, to that which Frenchy receives. As I wrote here last week, Jeff. F. ranks 40th in the NL in HR. It’s even lower now because he hasn’t hit one this past week. Why doesn’t he get a benching? Is it because Escobar doesn’t play right field?

By AJK

June 27, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

DOB: With Buherle apparently off the market, what other starting pitcher do you see the Braves making a realistic run at acquiring? (I know missing out on Buherle isn’t somethig you necessarily view as a negative!)

By P-Town Brave

June 27, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

DOB You still haven’t answered my question…If Garland is too expensive and we’re not in on a trade for him, then what was our scout doing at their game last night?!

By BossLady

June 27, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Tell Bobby Cox to call me, I want to talk to him about benching Kelly Johnson. Also, he needs to do someting about getting Orr and Woodward out of my sight. This is an urgent request, please proceed expeditiously. You talking about people not voting Braves for the All Stars they just continue to make people sick with this disgusting lineup mess. Whose on 1st? 2nd? 3rd? Young parents bringing their children to the ballpark, will not know for sure who’s on what. He better call ASAP. LOL, I can’t boss everything.LOL

By BamaBrave

June 27, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Like the guys mentioned last night…Escobar isn’t your normal rookie. With his Cuban National team experience, he’s not unlike a Japanese player acquisition. He has played under pressure before. I agree it’s odd for Bobby to turn on a player so abruptly though…it’s not like KJ pulled a Robert Fick…

By tvsportscaster

June 27, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

There is no doubt in my mind, Escobar is being showcased at 2nd base for someone, because I don’t think Cox is going with a strict platoon at three positions. And secondly, whoever said Orr would have to be DFA’d because he has no options, that is wrong, Orr has all three of his options remaining, because since he was put on the 40-man roster, he’s never been sent down to the minors.

By P-Town Brave

June 27, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

I agree w/ you Scott, and I’d actually prefer having KJ bat in the middle of the order, especially if Willie is in. KJ could be a major run producer on the team , and I believe he can hit well in clutch situations. Not only that, his high OBP will help him see better pitches if he batted 3rd w/ our 1 and 2 hitters on base.
What about this lineup:
1) Harris lf
2) Renteria ss
3) Johnson 2b
4) McCann c
5) C Jones 3b
6) Saltalamacchia c
7) Francoeur rf
8) A Jones cf

By another shot of whiskeytown

June 27, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this

Whiskeytown was a great band. Ryan Adams and the Cardinals are pretty close second, but I’d love to see Whiskeytown back together soon. I could listen to “Too Drunk to Dream” just about daily.

What the Braves really need is a hitting coach who can teach the Braves to be professional hitters, The Braves make more outs on bad pitches than any good team in the majors. And they’ve been doing it for years.

By MGL

June 27, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

BTW - Since June 1 til yesterday, KJ and Escobar have appeared in the same number of games with almost the same number of bats. I guess what Bobby meant was that he needed to get Escobar more at bats than Kelly.

By Ron Roberts

June 27, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

P-Town… The White Sox haven’t offered up Garland, at all. He’s the one guy that they do want to keep.

By shawn

June 27, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

My starting lineup right now: AVG. 1B - Salty .329 2B - K.J. .271 SS - Edgar .322 3B - Chip .319 LF - Diaz .333 CF - Harris .383 RF - Frenchy.273 C - McCann .264

For awhile and see how they play. let Andruw sit a little bit. not for the rest of the season. but that leaves you with jones, thorman, orr, woodward, escobar coming off the bench.

By StingerSplash

June 27, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this

DOB,

How bout a little Yesterday’s News?

By Dave knockahomer

June 27, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this

P-Town Brave:

NOW, that is a line up worth having!!!!

and someone give Bosslady Cox’s phone number….someone needs to give him ‘what-for’.

By Chris

June 27, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this

How can Bobby keep sticking Andruw in the cleanup role? If it was any other player he’d be spending a great deal of time on the bench, but the worst cleanup hitter in all of MLB continues to bat cleanup. Why?

As for Salty…no reason for him to play all the time at first. He’s been better than Thorman from both sides of the plate I believe. So why not stick with him as he learns the position. Need his bat in the lineup.

By rammerjammer

June 27, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

MGL, I didn’t realize it until you mentioned it, that KJ and Escobar had roughly the same number of ABs this month. I looked at KJ’s June and it’s not very good. Escobar’s been better at the plate this month. No two ways about it.

I gotta believe Bobby is seeing something about Kelly that is real troubling, because you all are right…Bobby is painfully loyal to his regulars.

By ElbravoX-- EbX

June 27, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

Tomas,

Orr has ALL options left. It’s a miracle, but true. He is the most tenured AAAA player in team history.

By Todd A

June 27, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this

Me thinks Kelly has gotten in Bobby’s dog house with that failed bunt attempt the other night.That may be the first time I’ve ever seen Cox confront a player when he came off the field.When Andruw dogged it against the Cubs back in ‘98,Cox took the exchange down into the tunnel.Once you’re on Bobby’s list,you either get buried on the bench,or you’re sent packing.

By P-Town Brave

June 27, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

Ron,

This may be true, but remember all of the other things the Sox have said. I think they’re just jerking everyone around! Besides, why else would we have a scout there last night than to see Garland…it wouldn’t make any sense otherwise!

By Interested Observer

June 27, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

I, too, believe Escobar is being showcased at 2nd for a potential trade partner. This might not be such a bad thing in the long run. I think Kelly has gotten a little tired from all his offseason work and could use a bit of a break.

If the White Sox aren’t going to trade Buerhle, they may be shopping Javier Vasquez. As I recall, Cox has always liked him, and he’s under contract for the next few years I believe. I’m just speculating but it would appear to meet JS’s criteria for giving up an Escobar caliber prospect.

By Carolina Gent

June 27, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

Ummmm….. P-town Brave, as Abbott and Costello once said, “Who’s on first?”

By DonCoburleone

June 27, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

“DOB You still haven’t answered my question…If Garland is too expensive and we’re not in on a trade for him, then what was our scout doing at their game last night?”

I know I’m not DOB but maybe there are other players (non-pitchers) we are looking at. I know the Sox would love to trade Tadahito Iguchi, maybe the Braves are looking at him as a replacement for Pete Orr off the bench? Could be alot of things - maybe Jose Contreras is being looked at. He’s signed through 2009 but his salary is too much (i believe) for the Braves to take on… In order to get him we’d probably have to use Salty so that way the Sox could pay a good portion of his salary - And I sure as he!! wouldn’t do that if I were the Braves…

By ElbravoX-- EbX

June 27, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this

AJ bats 4th because pitchers will groove fastballs and he’ll see more hittable pitches. That is what is so agonizing. Low and away and up and in. Evey one knows what’s coming but nothing.

By gotigers72

June 27, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

It’s still my humble opinion that the Braves need to strengthen their bench. Woodward at .207 and Orr at .180 something doesn’t exactly scare opposing managers in the late innings. The best pinch hitter is Willie, but what do you do when he’s in the game? Outside of another SP, the bench is the area most in need of an upgrade. If Davies and Carlyle could just pitch 60% of the time like they did in their last starts, the SP need may solve itself. But that’s the problem, the lack of consistency in the 4 and 5 spots.

Another reason to keep Salty around is that he has a HOT wife. I love it when she comes to the games and jumps up and down when Salty does something good. Ahem [clearing throat], if you know what I mean. Guess I’m sounding like too much of a dirty old man now. My wife accuses me of that every now and again. Well, if the shoe fits, wear it. I look, but don’t touch [except for the wife], but damn looking is fun sometime!

By Bill

June 27, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

Buherle is back on the market. The Braves don’t need to throw away prospects for him or Vasquez.

By P-Town Brave

June 27, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Carolina sorry about that…I meant for Salty to be at 1b..its just natural placing the c beside his name.
Don,

Why would we want ANOTHER 2b in Iguchi? We certainly wouldn’t trade Salty for anything less than Garland, and probably wouldn’t even go there…My only other thought would be that we’d go after Vasquez…unfortunately, he makes even more than Garland at 11 mil and that still wouldn’t explain our scouts interest at last night’s game.

By Eric from MO

June 27, 2007 6:09 PM | Link to this

Tomas- why do you hate Kelly Johnson so much. For the first two months he was the best second baseman in the game and I also dont think Willie Harris can play second.

TVSportscaster and ElbravoX- Orr is out of options because when he was put on the 40 man roster he was already out of options because he spent so much time in the minors.

By Jeff R

June 27, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this

Salty’s better off at 1B, whatever his talent level may be behind the plate. Moving to first will be a career extender for him, given the wear and tear that catchers suffer.

Certainly, the Braves hitting needs to pick up to contend in the second half, and it probably will, if last season is any indication, but the 4-5 spots in the rotation desperately need to be improved. When the 4/5 starters go, those are essentially lost games. That puts a lot of pressure on the 1-3 starting pitchers to win. Smoltz, Hudson and James are good, but good pitchers aren’t going win every game.

By DesertBravo

June 27, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

Is it just me, or is Cox still trying to figure out the best lineup at the All Star break? Isn’t that what Spring Training, April, and May are for? It’s not like we made any major trades which brought in some new talent or surprising injuries in the lineup(Chipper cannot be called “surprising”). Salty, Escobar, and Harris were all in the picture, and I remember Harris and Escobar looking strong in FL. I realize Andruw struggling this badly is slightly surprising (even though I’ve always leaned more towards Stark’s overrated tag, myself). So, shouldn’t this have been figured out a long time ago? Why is everything still an experiment? I still won’t give up, never do. But it would be nice to think we are a little closer to an answer at the break…

By pinkygonzales

June 27, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

Oh, and as far as Whiskeytown goes, my top tune is “Don’t Be Sad.”

By P-Town Brave

June 27, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

Eric Agree w/ your 1st point, but you are wrong on the last two…Willie came up as a 2nd basemen w/ the White Sox and has played in 175 games as a 2b…Also, Pete Orr has ALL of his options left as he never made the big club in 04 while w/ Richmond, but made the club in 05 and was NEVER sent down since that time.

By N8

June 27, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this

Has anybody ever felt like this blog may be the internet version of the Truman Show (Jim Carey), where YOU might be the only actual bloger, and DOB is ALL OF THE OTHERS, and it’s just his little mind game he’s playing on you, and you’re the only one not “in on it”?

It’s DOB’s World, I just blog in it.

By Yars

June 27, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

Bobby still mad at KJ for that failed bunt attempt last Saturday? Heck man, what about all those failed bunt attempts by Hudson the last 2 seasons? I’d take KJ over Yunel anyday. Escobar has no power. Sure, he has a cannon for an arm, but KJ’s defense at 2B hasn’t been too bad at all. I also have a feeling Yunel is older than he claims. I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s actually the same age as KJ (25).

By DonCoburleone

June 27, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this

P-Town I’m not talking about trading for Iguchi and then starting him at 2b. I’m talking about:

1)Trading Escobar for Iguchi and a pitching prospect.

2)Put KJ back on full-time 2b duty.

3)Send Orr back to AAA.

4)Recall Brayan Pena so Salty can platoon with Thorman full time.

5)Put Iguchi on the bench in Pete Orr’s place.

You can’t tell me that Iguchi isn’t an upgrade over Orr coming off the bench; Plus we’d get a pitching prospect out of the deal… I think that is a deal that improves our bench this year and possibly our rotation for years to come…

By P-Town Brave

June 27, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this

Gotta love the gall of Bobby Cox!

And here’s your lineups for tonight:
Washington Nationals (32-45)
1) Langerhans cf
2) Lopez ss
3) Zimmerman 3b
4) Dm Young 1b
5) Kearns rf
6) Church lf
7) Belliard 2b
8) Schneider c
9) Bowie p

Atlanta Braves (40-38)
1) Escobar 2b
2) Renteria ss
3) C Jones 3b
4) A Jones cf
5) Francoeur rf
6) McCann c
7) Diaz lf
8) Saltalamacchia 1b
9) Smoltz p

So apparently 2 bombs last night wasn’t good enough to move Jarrod past the 8-hole, and 6 of his last 8 wasn’t good enough to move B-Mac past the two stiffs in front of him and YES, I do mean Mr. 132 and Mr. 232 in June

By Ron Roberts

June 27, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this

The Sox are shopping Javier Vasquez, by most accounts. That’s one of the primary targets the scouts are looking at when attending their games, these days.

He’d be a solid pickup. Not spectacular, but solid.

I still say we got our guy now - he’s just in the ‘pen working useless mop-up duty with a 3.55 ERA.

Oscar Villareal.

By BULL OF THE WOODS

June 27, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

Why not give Thorman a look as trade bait for a starter? Salty is a future star somewhere so why not first? His fielding will improve and he’s not atrocious right now. No way should the Braves ever consider him for a trade.

Another factor; Salty would be great insurance just in case McCann should come down with an injury. A good first baseman should be easier to find than a good catcher.

As for second, play KJ until he proves he can’t handle it. And I don’t think that is going to happen. Escobar is going to play Major league ball somewhere and may well be the topic of a showcase right now. It makes sense. Of course it would be better to keep him and dump either Orr or Woodward or preferably both.

Harris can also play the infield. He is increasing his value every day that passes. That guy loves to play and shows it.

By P-Town Brave

June 27, 2007 6:30 PM | Link to this

Don,

It would if the Sox HAD any pitching prospects…they’re not giving us Gavin Floyd and anything other than that wouldn’t be worth it to trade Escobar who IS better than Iguchi straight up…and if thats the case, your quick fix would be just to send Orr down and promote Pena and be done with it…Besides, we don’t need a position player…we’re already having trouble getting some players time as is…We need a #3 starter!

By David O'Brien

June 27, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

BossLady, Rotomeister, others: Agreed on Kelly. He’s not getting the same courtesy that others in longer and worse slumps get, including the RF, who plays every day, regardless. I think that’s why Kelly’s upset, though he’s wise not to say anything on the record and cause any problems. But it’s gotta be tough. The man was praised every day, at every turn, by Bobby for his hitting and defense, then the next week he’s replaced vs. lefties and Bobby says he’s done absolutely nothing to lose his spot.

On the other hand, Escobar doesn’t play RF, and Renteria and Chipper are obviously going to play when healthy….

P-Town Brave, I said I thought he was too expensive at $12 mill next year. Didn’t say the Braves thought so. Maybe they were looking at him, maybe someone else on that team or another….

By Jared

June 27, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this

Escobar again? Unless they’re showcasing him for a trade, Bobby Cox should be fired for pulling this platoon crap at second base, with how good Kelly Johnson has been. Absurd.

By David O'Brien

June 27, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

Eric from Mo: Orr is NOT out of options. He hasn’t used a single option.

By Jared

June 27, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

Escobar again? Unless they’re showcasing him for a trade, Bobby Cox should be fired for pulling this platoon crap at second base, with how good Kelly Johnson has been. Absurd.

By fastasballs

June 27, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

Is Andruw & Frenchy stuck together? Why doesn Bobby continue to bat the two free swingers back-to-back? Expect at least two under 8 pitch innings by the Nats.

I’m not sure what’s up with KJ sitting again. Yeah a lefty is out there, but he’s not Santana.

My theory with Chipper’s bad hitting with runners on is based around Andruw following him. He swings at a lot of first pitches because that’s probably the best pitch he’s going to see in the AB. It’s just a hunch.

By jbutler

June 27, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

Hey N8…great mind games there Big Brother.

By Jared

June 27, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this

Unless Escobar is being showcased for a trade, Bobby Cox should be fired. Kelly Johnson been too good to start this platoon crap. Utterly absurd.

By Chris_In_PA

June 27, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this

You know…I don’t comment at all on what others write on this blog…to tell you the truth, I mostly scroll down to read what DOB writes (whether its about the Braves or music, whatever), but I have got to say that some of you are..for lack of a better word…retarded. What starter are the Braves going to get back for Thorman? Nobody worth trading Thorman for, that’s for sure. Why complain about Bobby hitting Salty in the 8 hole? Has anyone watched Bobby fill out a line-up card over the last 15+ years? He rarely puts a rookie in a spot in the line-up where they can pitch around more dangerous hitters (like Franceour, McCann, AJ)in order to go after rookies like Salty. He puts them in spots where they have less pressure and can succeed. Please…quit posting your line-ups on the page. Yes…I don’t read them, but when I glance and see AJ hitting 8th (albeit with that batting average), I want to pull my chin hair out and jam it up my nose.

DOB - finally coming down to Atlanta in August v. Colorado, after 23 years of being a Braves fan. Any tips/suggestions?

By Robert

June 27, 2007 6:48 PM | Link to this

I want to discuss not the LaRoche trade, but the $2 million deal for Craig Wilson, and similar signings

For example, Redman - At the time, it seemed like a reasonable chance to take. Just like, at the time, Wilson seemed like a reasonable cheap chance.

Problem is - you have a string of them that dont work out and you’ve spent 3 or 5 or 6 million for nothing

When you couldve got SOMETHING if you’d been willing to spend all that much money to begin with

I’m not saying that the fliers on Wilson or Redman were wrong.

Just musing

Bottom line on LaRoche - he’s a marginal every day big leaguer at BEST - no big loss

Bottom line on Betemit - he’s NOT a big leaguer, so no loss

By Ron Roberts

June 27, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

How much better would this team have been if we’d have just picked up Dmitri Young for 1B in the offseason, the way the Nats did?

ESPN lists his salary at $8 million, but also says he makes $500,000 this season.

By Ed Glennon

June 27, 2007 6:54 PM | Link to this

The lineup:

I would hit Andruw in the nine slot except tonight when Smoltz hits (sorry Smoltzy}

Trade:

Woodward got an RBI last night. Trade him while he is hot

By Kieran, Long Island Brave Fan

June 27, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

Can Orr refuse an assignment to teh minors and ask for his release? I know theres a rule like that for guys who have a certain number of years of service I think this is Orrs 3rd or 4th year with the team.

Does Thorman have options left? Even though I know they woudlnt send him down at this point, I’m just curious.

BTW WHAT a great free pickup Yates turned out to be. he has his occasional blow ups but he’s really picked up the slack with Gonzo going down good for him and good for JS on finding another one.

By Bob, Journalist

June 27, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

Rambling Rants mit many redundancies

Andruw is at .222 RISP and second-worst in the NL in all situations with runners on base at .194 but then, those departments have never exactly been Andruw’s forte … sad, when you think what we could have been had he been what he should have been.

In the wee hours of the previous Blog, I asked folks how many players they thought were failing to realize their potential or are not on schedule to so do? Clarifying that I was asking about “potential” rather than “meeting expectations relative to what you thought they would do”.

It was a bit disappointing to have less than 100 responses but I do want to thank everyone who did reply. Unfortunately, I seem to have misplaced them … could you do it again … a “cut-n-paste” would be fine!

As you know, I’ve been struggling with reaching conclusions when you’re on the outside looking in … it’s hard, very hard indeed!

Difficult is not impossible … and I’m moving in the direction that remaining in limbo at the mercy of those on the inside looking out always providing “no problem - Alles ist in Ordnung - oder fast” status reports is worse than the alternative.

Methinks I now think that if a player remains on the active roster that fits into that category … then somebody’s not being totally successful; no need to be on the inside to posit that. Likewise, if the number in that category under the span of control of a specific coach exceeds an agreed upon failure threshold, then that coach can be deemed to have failed in his duties and those duties should be changed. Looking in from the outside limits our view but methinks you don’t have to see inside to reach those conclusions.

I’m not looking for evidence of success, failure or corruption … the fact that such conclusions can be reached doesn’t say anything about the conclusions that will be reached.

Another thought that is swirling around in this muddy water is that the top level of leadership, relative to our interests, is found in the highest position within management where the long term performance of the team is the primary focus rather than the financial bottom line. It’s the one that is to be held accountable for the validity of the vision and ensuring that the vision is effected, both within the constraints imposed upon the position … but also charged with championing the cause for adequate resources to support the vision, should changing conditions so dictate.

Obviously, everyone in the chain is expected to exhibit initiative/leadership relative to his duties and any charges under their control … and is to be held responsible for so doing.

If it’s deemed that a person is not doing his/her job, the questions that always arise are (1) why do they still have that job? and (2) why aren’t they doing it? Their boss is the one responsible for so deeming and for asking those questions and addressing the situation the situation.

I realize that the lack of response was an indication of the level of interest but it could help us better identify the consensus or level of disagreement on the Blog, and I think it would be a bit, make that a bunch, better than death struggles and chants between “Fire Terry” and “Terry’s Wonderful” advocates.

Terry being just an example, aber naturalich.

I know that tomorrow is another day! … but I’d settle for 3 in a row tonight!

By berigan

June 27, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

Just checked, Kelly Johnson is batting .228 for the month of June, with a .319 OBP….does everyone think he is tired right now since he missed all of last season??? His stance looks different to me, does it to anyone else? Looks like his swing isn’t as fluid because of it, but can’t recall what it first looked like back in April.

By Todd A

June 27, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

Cox is full of @#$%.Always has been.He plays favorites.I’m sure most coaches have their favorites,but they don’t put loyalty ahead of winning.Is it Sept 2008 yet?“The playoffs are a crapshoot”Bobby Cox.

By N8

June 27, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

How can you be so sure who you are calling Big Brother?

:-)

By Robert

June 27, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

“Woodward got an RBI last night. Trade him while he is hot”

Guess the genius knew that Woodey would come thru if they just stuck with him, huh.

By P-Town Brave

June 27, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this

He rarely puts a rookie in a spot in the line-up where they can pitch around more dangerous hitters (like Franceour, McCann, AJ)in order to go after rookies like Salty. He puts them in spots where they have less pressure and can succeed.

This is what Chris from PA said…Well my only problem w/ this is that he ISN’T putting AJ in a position where he can succeed being w/ the slump he is in, and Frenchy is NOT succeeding currently either. How can you even begin to consider Andruw more dangerous than Salty right now? Nothing in his stat sheet shows that you are correct in that assumption. Not only that, how would you figure Escobar leading off, which he’d never done in his life before now Chris?!

By berigan

June 27, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this

Missed some of the earlier posts here, so forgive me if I am going over other things mentioned above…I just looked at Johnson’s numbers home vs. road. .326 BA on the road, but only .217 at home!!! Wow! Perhaps another reason he’s sitting???

By Rhett Butler

June 27, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

Does anyone know if Kelly can play first?

By David O'Brien

June 27, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

Forgot to mention, KYLE DAVIES is skipping a turn, moving back to Monday or Tuesday. Said his side felt fine in a long, 50-pitch bullpen session yesterday, no problem with the oblique, but that there’s still some slight soreness there. Doesn’t hurt when he pitches, but he said he can still feel it just in every-day activity.

So Braves are being cautious. I’d guess he’ll start Tuesday, since Bobby said he’s moving to back of rotation and other four guys are going to take their turns. Only way that might change, I’d imagine, is if they give Smolt an extra day of rest again and have Davies go Monday and Smoltz Tuesday.

No decision on that yet

By berigan

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

JasonInMaine, I mentioned it on the other blog, before realizing that there was a new blog. My prayers are with your family, and hope the news will be good on your Father-in-Law!

By DonCoburleone

June 27, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this

Okay, check out this idea in regards to acquiring Javier Vasquez: Here is what I know about Vasquez’s current contract. He makes $12.5mil this season with a 3 year extension taking effect in 2008 worth $34.5mil. Lets say we trade for him in late July he’d be owed $4.16mil for the remainder of this season and an average of $11.5mil over the next 3… So, say we get the Sox to throw in about $8mil of salary relief (pro-rate it for $2mil this season and $6mil next season) and then we are getting him for really $5.5mil in 2008 (Wickmans current salary) and $11.5mil in 2009 and 2010. Which we would be able to afford in 2009 and 2010 because both Hampton’s and Renteria’s contracts will be off the books by then…

The problem with that plan however is that in order to get the ChiSox to pitch in $8mil or more we’d probably have to part with more than we’d want to (I know their bullpen has struggled mightily this year - so maybe Escobar & Yates could get it done?) All I know is of all the Sox pitchers (taking into account the fact that Garland will be a FA after 2008) Vasquez is the one I would most want… WE JUST CAN’T AFFORD HIM!!!!!!!!!!!

By Chris_In_PA

June 27, 2007 7:24 PM | Link to this

Very simple P-Town…I’m laughing…this will be good. Did you look over your stat sheets before you posted this? Did you happen to notice the 340+ homeruns Andruw has hit, or notice that he has hit 30+ the last I don’t know how many years? Did you notice that Salty was 22 and that he has hit 4 total homeruns?

As far as Escobar…someone needs to leadoff…KJ and Willie are not in the line-up and putting Renteria in the leadoff spot would be assinine (sp?). Again…Bobby putting a rookie (Escobar) in a spot where he can succeed…right in front of Renteria and Chipper, where he will get pitches to hit. Not to mention the Ok speed Escobar brings with him. If you are going to split hairs, better come more prepared.

My $.02 - the Braves are showcasing Escobar for a trade…I have almost no doubts about it. That is why Bobby said we can’t keep him out of the line-up.

By Josh C

June 27, 2007 7:24 PM | Link to this

On July 4, 2005 the Braves were 5.5 games back of these Nats (well, not THESE Nats) and muddling through. Mr. Francoeur arrived on July 5, played his way into the lineup, and ended up as the leader of the Baby Braves group that sparked the team to a division crown. Even ended up on the ROY radar. Is Salty that guy this year?

By berigan

June 27, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this

interesting, they were talking about hitters helping other hitters in game(On sports south) and Chipper saying how he will say stuff to guys, and how even though he is hitting .329, he knows he is batting under .200 with RISP, and if people in the dugout have a suggestion, to tell him….

By Tyler

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

Kelly should be our second basemen. Period. He has been vey consistent this year in the field and the bat, and costs bare minimum. Escobar has done well, but has not been here long enough to show he is going to stay like this.

However, I believe this is going to spark Johnson, and maybe get him hot. At least I hope so.

I’d trade Escobar in a heartbeat for a #2 starter or better. A deal with Buerhle would be nice. We’ll see.

But this p** me off, I dont think there was any reason to do this to Kelly.

By Bob, Journalist

June 27, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

Regardless of my confusing rhetoric and views on “outside looking in” … the truth is that we don’t know why Kelly is being treated as it appears he is … maybe he was damaged by the eruption of the festering polygonal sore that didn’t exist … who knows?

Regardless, it’s hard to conclude that we’re getting the skinny and it’s purely performance driven.

By Don!

June 27, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB,

With our glut of middle infielders, is there any chance of moving Kelly as opposed to Escobar — or flipping Lillibrige for either pitching help this year and/or Andruw insurance in case he leaves after the season?

Later,

Don!

By Lew

June 27, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

PTownBrave-They won with that lineup last night. Why are you so set on changing what worked? It would appear that Salty was quite comfortable hitting in the 8 spot. Also, Andruw, who may or may not be breaking out of his slump, drove in three from cleanup. What’s your problem here? You criticize when things don’t work and now you’re criticizing what did work. You just can’t have it both ways.

By P-Town Brave

June 27, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

Don

I gotta ask…what do you like about Vazquez over Garland bc I think Garland is an absolute STUD!

By beki

June 27, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this

The totally hot wife is Yunel’s spoouse;not Kelly’s, he’d just proposed to his girlfriend.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

June 27, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this

The Grinch The Ruger is a nice firearm. However, I have a Beretta single action in .357 magnum. I choose that particular round as I can “play” a little cheaper by using 38 special rounds for practice. I think I payed around $450 for it new. My only regrets is the pistol grip is a tab bit small for my hand but not so much that is is uncomfortable or difficult to handle even when using magnum loads. My suggestion is for you to try them both so as to be comfortable for you. As for the .45 long colt. Believe it or not it has about the same stopping power as a 357.

My real joy is my black powder Navy Colt, just have to be patient loading it. Gives you a real appreciation for choosing your shots wisely.

By Chipper's Proctologist

June 27, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

I have an idea that might settle all of this. Why don’t we trade Chipper before he breaks another fingernail and goes back on the DL? We could get some pitching in return and Escobar and KJ can play 3rd and 2nd respectively.

It sure would be nice but I guess the fact that Chipper is an oft-injured 10 and 5 guy who makes a gazillion dollars a year might make it difficult to move him.

What do you guys think?

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

June 27, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

I don’t think this whole Johnson/Escobar platoon thing is that big of a deal. First of all, getting Escobar’s bat into the lineup is a good thing. But, the real issue is that the main reason Escobar is getting a chance to play more is becaue the Braves are showcasing him for a trade. I would think that is obvious. I think JS and Cox have all but decided that Escobar is more expendable than Salty unless they get a “can’t refuse” deal for Salty.

Now, on the surface I would agree with that. Salty is more talented (although Escobar is clsoe) and more of an immediate need with Thorman being so inconsistent at 1B. However, Chipper’s fragile state makes me damn nervous. I think Salty is more expendable simply because Chipper can’t seem to go more than two weeks without getting hurt and if he goes down again or the groin injury becomes unbearable, who could the Braves put in his place. Lord knows that Orr nor Woodward is the answer.

If I’m Kelly Johnson, I keep my cool and wait it out. By the time August 1st rolls around, if not sooner, he will be back playing everyday. That is unless Yunnel falls flat on his face, which I don’t see happening.

By DonCoburleone

June 27, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah, BTW, Buehrle has not signed any extension today… As far as everyone can tell the report on the radio station was bogus…

By MBATL

June 27, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

I think the trading deadline is 5 weeks away, and Bobby is trying to win ballgames.

By Ed Glennon

June 27, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

What is a better deal: John Edwards’ haircut or Chris Woodward’s salary?

By DonCoburleone

June 27, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this

P-Town the only reason I like Vasquez more than Garland is because Garland could become a Free Agent after next season, where as Vasquez is signed through 2010 for a very club-friendly contract… In other words, I’d rather have Vasquez for 2 months and 3 years rather than Garland for 2 months and 1 year; make sense?

By Rajesh

June 27, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this

When there is a runner in second base then you need a good hit to get them in. Whereas when there is a runner at third base you dont necessarily need one to get them in and hence there is less pressure on the hitter. And when you have one at first base or none at all then you just have to try to get on base whether it is a walk or a hit just to prolong the inning.

My guess is chipper is playing hurt and is not able to get as many extra base hits as he used to which is obviously bothering him. In this situation as you would expect from any true franchise player he is just trying too hard.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

June 27, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s Proctologist One of my rules is to never turn my back on a proctologist…. Therefore I can look you square in the eye and tell you that is a bad idea to dump Hoss.

By DonCoburleone

June 27, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

LOL, what have been 2 major topics on this blog today? Escobar starting at 2b and Chippers horrible average with runners in scoring position… So what happens in the 1st inning? Escobar doubles and Chipper gets a base hit with a runner in scoring position… I think the Braves players read this blog!

By Josh C

June 27, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Wha.. what the…

Did we just manufacture a run? Nah…

By SaltyWoody

June 27, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

GARLAND, BUERHLE, VASQUEZ

Are you guys nuts?

None of these guys are lights out or even close to it. Garland has been great the last two years but was very mediocre before that. Vasquez has always been a middling pitcher…era consistently around 4.5, always about a .500 record. And Beurhle is the same…this year, at least, in that he’s been fairly hittable. All three are not “ace” quality, which is what we ought to be going after if we’re considering trading our top prospects.

On top of all that, all three of these guys are going to make $10million+ the next few years. That’s not exactly a pedestrian amount, especially to a team on a budget.

I wouldn’t want to be paying any of them that much money for what they’d give us.

Talk to me about Danny Haren and I’ll listen. Or even talk to me about Harden if we can get him on the cheap. But enough is enough with the White Sox’s guys. They’re overpriced and not the saviors many of you assume they’d be.

By P-Town Brave

June 27, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Hey Chris in PA Do you care to make another lineup suggestion about Andruw batting 4th…

Nah…I didn’t think so

By Bob, Journalist

June 27, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

Berigan,

To me, Kelly’s stance looks different and has for some time … actually there may have been some recent improvement.

Just my opine, but methinks it may be more than just stance … or just a result of such change, but his approach at the plate seems different.

Looks like The tempo has changed and, as you say his swing doesn’t appear to be as fluid.

I don’t keep count of pitch counts but methinks he seems less comfortable and less patient from the time the pitcher releases the ball ‘till it crosses the plate and his bat speed seems slower … like I say, I “feel” more than “see” some return to what earlier was.

However, unless folks are just grasping at straws as result to the struggles, the actions being taken just don’t seem consistent with past management style, regardless of performance related protestations and explanations.

Something caused the change in him and the decisions made by Bobby … maybe more than one something.

By Mets Stink

June 27, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

For everyone watching the game, was Pete Orr just eating a cookie in the dugout?

By Del

June 27, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

BC’s lineup tonight would really be super if he had just switched Dru and Salty. First inning and another rally killed by Dru!!!

By DonCoburleone

June 27, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

Good ol’ Andruw; I don’t think he reads this blog… In fact, can Andruw even read???

By Gil in Mechanicsville

June 27, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone Can you write in Dutch?

By emo

June 27, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Pete Orr likes to suck on oreos during a game. It’s where he gets that manic energy.

By Bob, Journalist

June 27, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Tyler, methinks and I do too that most folks would agree with trading Escobar for a #2 starter or better … probably everybody except them what got a #2 starter or better to trade.

By emo

June 27, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox’s plan to keep Saltalamacchia down in the 8th spot is purely Macchiavellian.

By emo

June 27, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this

Escobar is our best infield prospect bar none. The Braves should be barred from trading him.

By MBATL

June 27, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

You mean it’s Saltalmacchiavellian?

By Yars

June 27, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

I can’t be the only one on here that quietly roots for Langerhans when he’s up at bat.

By Bob, Journalist

June 27, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Gil, I can’t write in it but methinks it’s fitting that Andruw is in it with so many people!

By ncscoots

June 27, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

same old Salty. Just killed another rally.

LOL, sorry I couldn’t resist. But if you’re gonna hold AJ’s feet to the fire every single AB, then so be it for every hitter, say I.

would agree with trading Escobar for a #2 starter or better … probably everybody except them what got a #2 starter or better to trade As usual, Bob nails it. Riddle me this: in a scenario where the Braves needed a shortstop, would you trade Hudson for oh, the AAA shortstop of the Oakland A’s? No? Wow. I bet there are Oakland bloggers somewhere who would do it in a second. Imagine.

By StingerSplash

June 27, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

As much as I like Kelly - you gotta respect a kid who has gone from IF to OF and back to IF, plus missed a year after elbow surgery and has played quite well at 2B and at leadoff - Escobar is the fo’shizzle. 2 for 2 with 2 2Bs. Not bad.

By Mr Gil

June 27, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Ms Roselynn Noticed the hubby is at the ballpark tonight. Why aren’t you there?

By David O'Brien

June 27, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Hoss just needed the reverse MIB curse, mentioning his low average with RISP today worked like a charm.

By Jeff R

June 27, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Any position player should be considered expendable if you get quailty pitching in return.

By Tomas

June 27, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

Scott, I like KJ, he a very good hitter, and has a very good OBP, but he is a big liability at the field, he has absolutely no range, while turning double plays he becomes over anxious and almost always he drops the ball in the exchange. But the reason Bobby is benching him, was because the other day Kelly was asked to put a sacrifice bunt against a tough lefty, he missed and had two strikes and decided to bunt, it was a bad decicion by his part how could you give yourself out like that, when he got to the dugout he got some words from bobby he seemed really upset.

By David O'Brien

June 27, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

That bunt attempt was just sad. Really. Just sad.

By emo

June 27, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Phooey. I wish Andruw Jones druw a walk instead of making another out.

By MBATL

June 27, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this

Ha! If anything gets AJ moved down the lineup, or benched, it’ll be that bunt attempt. I don’t think Bobby has stuck with AJ in the cleanup spot so he could freakin’ bunt with 2 men on! Geez, that was unreal.

By Eric from MO

June 27, 2007 8:39 PM | Link to this

Bull of the Woods “Why not give Thorman a look as trade bait for a starter?” Who would want him?

PTownBrave- I dont necessarily disagree with you but be fair, Andruw hit a homerun last night too.

By HP

June 27, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

Andruw Jones tried to bunt. Last time he had sacrifice bunt was in 1998. What is he thinking? He should not be batting clean up spot right now. What is Bobby Cox thinking anyway?

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

I dont care if this guy from curacao (i dont want to remember his name anymore) can play all the OF positions at the same time and we move othar 2 OFs to the infield and play with 7 IF, nobodys glove i that good so it can balance such a bad plate performance constantly. Bench him tonight, right now.

By ncscoots

June 27, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

Oh, man. Man, man, man. Bobby gives you major props by keeping you at 4 batting sub-Mendoza, and you pay him back with a bunt attempt.

simply…surreal.

OK, I give up. I thought putting him at cleanup and leaving him there would be a good plan, eventually. But that little widget proves that his head is completely gone. Abdicated. Absconded. In…the…wind. Put him anywhere in the lineup now, it’s only a matter of time before guys in white jackets pick him up, anyway.

Just when you think you’ve seen it all…

By summerteeth

June 27, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

DOB, you gotta ask if AJ was asked to bunt or if he did it on his own!!!

By David O'Brien

June 27, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

Yes, Stinger, I was just remarking to a gentleman seated near me in the pressbox: Mr. Escobar is, indeed, the fo’shizzle. Quite so.

By Josh C

June 27, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Hey you guys are too rough on Andruw. Give him some credit on his creativity- he had to think long and hard to come up with a new, fresh way to kill the rally. To that end allow me to be the first to commend his effort …

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

what is AJ doing batting in the 9th spot? oh no sorry that was john bunting, good bunt by the way john.

go braves go.

By Bob, Journalist

June 27, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

Mr. Gil, it’s Miss Roselynn … only Damn Yankees would say *Ms Roselynn to a fine lady like her.

Say I … I!

if you’re gonna hold AJ’s feet to the fire every single AB, then so be it for every hitter … right as per usual, ‘cepting that every hitter hasn’t been so danged consistent in his penchant for killing rallies, says me.

By Tomas

June 27, 2007 9:03 PM | Link to this

I bet you that bunt attempt from andruw, didn’t come from the dugout.

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this

I guess yunel is doing what KJ could not do. Im sure KJ is going to do better next time around. Now BC has something to thing about cause this new lineup is doing very good, and i dont care if its the nats, it still is a MLB team, I like this BC attitude better, and it would be better if his gives AJ what he deserves. Go thorman, go KJ, this team is good, lets cheer them guys.

By Paris Hilton

June 27, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this

I’m on Larry king! Right now! Wee hoo

By StingerSplash

June 27, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

Dob,

True dat. I may hail from the streets, but I am white bread.

By ncscoots

June 27, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Bob, my timing in defending AJ was just about perfect, no? LMAO

To heck with how he was repaying Bobby’s loyalty, now he be messin’ with ME! :-)

By HP

June 27, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

Andruw Jones gets a base hit!!!!!!!!

By fastasballs

June 27, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

All Chipper does is hit RBI singles, lol.

By Earlier This Season

June 27, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

Earlier this season, some here said,

Salty should get a shot at playing some first base. Thorman is struggling and Salty really looks good at the plate.

And the masses and expert responded,

“you must be crazy! How can you expect this guy to play first base!?!? He’s never played first in a major league game! There’s a reason you haven’t seen him there. Cox isn’t going to do something stupid like that! What idiots you people must be to suggest such madness!

He made an error last night. It didn’t lead to any runs. He also homered twice. Gave up no runs and gave us two. I’ll take that trade.

Just wondering if the so called “experts” here remember.

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this

wooooooooooooowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww chipper is doing what he is supposed to do. And what a difference his presence means to this team. He takes the lineup to another dimension. I still need he needs to be rested once a week even if we have a team day off.

That AJ RBI does no good to this team, it forces BC to keep him in the lineup and even worse at cleanup.

Go braves, bring up the marlins, Im sure we at least r gonna win 2 out of 3 from them.

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

I would take JS out of the game after 5, his shoulder needs it and the nats r under control and the BS is not the 2006 BP, theyll hold the lead.

By jbutler

June 27, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

Does anyone else see the irony that its Chipper that’s having such a big night behind Smoltz??? Kind of funny…think they will hug and sing “Kumbaya” at the end of the game???

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

phillies losing 6-3 in the 7th, muts winning 2-0 in the 5th.

By All This Season

June 27, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

Earlier…

… Pitching and defense are the cornerstones of the Braves’ success since 1991. So it really HAS made no sense that Bobby Cox (or any manager) would put a kid at 1B that’s never played it at the minor OR major league level. It’s a HUGE risk. Fortunately, so far, it’s only hurt is in one game (at Minnesota).

But if he continues to make errors at 1B, it will cost us more games. Shoot, if he can out-HIT his errors, then so be it. I’d stay with it, too.

But the minute the major league pitchers figure him out (as they have with Frenchy and Thorman and KJ), then don’t YOU come on here with ANOTHER made-up name to b!tch about it, okay?

By Southbeachdietfreak

June 27, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

I am watching this in the Nationals’ network here in VA. Any takers on which announcing crew is worse?

By fastasballs

June 27, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

Overlord, So are we suppose to root for Andruw to fail everytime at the plate just so Bobby will move down in the order? I don’t understand the reasoning behind that.

Without doubt he is lost at the plate, but he has produced 4 rbi’s in a game & 1/2. That’s what he’s there for, isn’t it? I’m still not convinced he will come out of the funk anytime soon, but there is a little progress going on.

I’ve been one of his toughest critics since early in the season, but never do I root for him to fail, doing so is rooting for the Braves to fail.

By Bob, Journalist

June 27, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

Apologies Scoots, something just came over me … folks just don’t quite understand the notion that me does the thinking and I do the typing … the real reason for the convolution and the errors.

Eric from MO, my short term memory ain’t so good … that’s why I oppose trade talk … it scares me ‘cause we get rid of players faster than I can memorize their names.

There’s no question that some folks still love Andruw … his wife, kids, and I understand he has a large family back home … one hit and we’ve got our cleanup problems solved … He’s Back!

I do remember a Rafael Belliard when he played for the Braves, at least I think he did … took me a while to get his name straight too … but, not only did he have one home run, he had two!

After his last one, everybody got real excited and some even considered retiring his number … but none that I can remember considered batting him cleanup.

By Southbeachdietfreak

June 27, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

Smoltzie got a hit!! He’s over halfway to Andruw!!!!

By ncscoots

June 27, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Absolutely, Earlier This Season, I said that Saltalamacchia playing 1B would be problematic; that his concentration on defense would take away from his offense; that it wasn’t an optimal solution and unnecessary at the time.

You’ll also note that yesterday I opined that perhaps it was time he got some more ABs at 1B, due to Thorman’s continued struggles.

You see, experts are able to take additional input and come to new conclusions, if merited. Only dogmatic mush-heads cling to a position simply because they have espoused it, regardless of fact or evidence. Not that we don’t have some of those here, too.

But that doesn’t mean I wrong at the time the former opinion was expressed. Only that the circumstances that formed that opinion have changed.

Now…was I entirely pdeantic enough with that post, LOL? I feel so, so EXPERT! :-)

By Earlier This Season

June 27, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

When you were scoring zero runs, it wasn’t much of a risk to try and get some offense in the lineup. So far, it’s worked.

Made up name? So All This Season is something we see here everyday?

What an idiot!

By StingerSplash

June 27, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

So what’s the superlative of fo’shizzle?

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

time for woodward to play ss and orr to play 3b. leave andrew in just hoping he gets hurt.

leave salty in the whole game, but behind the plate, give brian a break.

By Southbeachdietfreak

June 27, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

There’s one way to get Woodward on base!!

By Shaun

June 27, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

All This Season,

Actually Saltalamacchia had as good or better control of the strikezone than all of those guys you mentioned. I’m sure he’ll have his struggles but he’s got a chance to become a bigger star than all of those guys.

By Southbeachdietfreak

June 27, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

For the record…

the Nats announcers were puzzled that Smoltz was taken out of the games after his hit. Apparently they forgot his arm hurting in the 2nd inning.

By jbutler

June 27, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

Hey Southbeachdietfreak…I’m amazed at some of the people who announce. Truly. My cousin is the announcer for FOX for the KC Royals - they’ve been terrible the entire time he’s been doing it. He said there’s days he can’t believe what he has to try and talk about..cause the game is so out of control bad!!! I say watch w/the volume down. Or heavily sedate yourself.

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

Well fastball, i tried rooting for him, but this is too much for me to handle, and the only way BC will bench him is if he falls bellow .100. So the faster the better.

By Bob, Journalist

June 27, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

Did someone say we have the same lineup for two consecutive days? I told you guys that they listened to me!

Maybe they just felt sorry for me but such things do make a difference, even when it’s not the best possible one … one step at at time, nicht Wahr?!

If they take my advice, why don’t you give it a try?

Familiarity breeds what? Goodness!

By Savannah Guy

June 27, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

So…did Chipper get to leave early because Smoltzy left early? Otherwise it just wouldn’t be fair. They worked that out perfectly so they could go watch the game together, play a little bridge, knock the top off of a few brews. Johnny can ice the shoulder and Hoss can ice the groin…uh…do you ice a groin? Does that make your voice go up a few octaves? Yeoww…

Nice to have a laugher for a rare change.

By Earlier This Season

June 27, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

Pitching and defense are the cornerstones of the Braves’ success since 1991. So it really HAS made no sense that Bobby Cox (or any manager) would put a kid at 1B that’s never played it at the minor OR major league level. It’s a HUGE risk.

Ok rocket scientist, so when you aren’t getting pitching and defense, what do you do? Wait a couple of years and see if it just shows up one season? Just lay down and wish you had pitching and defense on a par with what you used to have?

You shake things up, you play guys who you feel may produce some offense to help your struggling pitching staff. You do whatever you have to do to make things happen.

A managers job is to push new buttons when the buttons you had at your disposal for years aren’t there anymore.

And in case you hadn’t noticed, we don’t have Maddux, Glavine and a healthy Avery to go with Smoltz anymore!

By Savannah Guy

June 27, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this

What, did Andruw join ‘em? Can he play bridge?

By Random Task

June 27, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

How did this team score one run in 100 innings (rounded up) ? They look like professional hitters in this series…..Why is there no sincular or plural of series ? I get headache,lie down now.

By ncscoots

June 27, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

So what’s the superlative of fo’shizzle?

That would be mo’fo’shizzle. Or maybe mos’fo’shizzle :-)

By SteelCav

June 27, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

This Escobar kid is pretty good eh.

WOW!!!!!!

By Hotspur

June 27, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

**By StingerSplash

June 27, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

So what’s the superlative of fo’shizzle?**

Fo’shizzlest!

By ssiscribe

June 27, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

After that last play by Escobar, and the stretch by Salty, it’s safe to say those two kids are fo’ shizzle, ma nizzle.

Peace.

—30—

By Mos Def Presents Yuni Says

June 27, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

In honor of the great Mos Def and the great Yunel Escobar, here is the b******* version of Umi Says:

I don’t wanna write this down; i wanna tell you how I feel right now; I don’t wanna take no time to write this down; I wanna tell you how I feel right now hey, don’t be afraid

Tomorrow may never come; For you or me; Life is not promised; Tomorrow may never show up; For you and me; This life is not promised

I ain’t no perfect man; I’m trying to do, the best that I can, With what it is I have; I ain’t no perfect man; I’m trying to do, the best that I can, With what it is I have

Put my heart and soul into this song [yes yes]; I hope you feel me; From where I am, to wherever you are; I mean that sincerely; Tomorrow may never come; For you and me; Life is not promised; Tomorrow may never appear; You better hold this very moment very close to you [right now]; Very close to you [right now]; So close to you, So- close to you [your moment in history is right now!]; Don’t be afraid, to let it shine

My YUNI said shine your light on the world; Shine your light for the world to see; My YUNI said shine your light on the world; Shine your light for the world to see; I want Braves people to be free, to be free, to be free;

My YUNI said shine your light on the world; Want Braves people to be free, to be free, to be free; Shine your light for the world to see; Want Braves people to be free, to be free, to be free;

My YUNI said shine your light on the world; Want Braves people to be free, to be free, to be free; Shine your light for the world to see; Want Braves people to be free, to be free…

Sometimes I get discouraged; I look around and, things are so weak; People are so weak; Sometimes, Sometimes I feel like crying; Sometimes my heart gets heavy; Sometimes I just want to leave and fly away [fly fly fly, like a dove];

Sometimes I don’t know what to do with myself [ow!]; Passion takes over me; I feel like a man, Going insane, Losing my brain, Trying to maintain, Doing my thang, Hey hey hey hey hey, Put my heart and soul into this y’all, I hope you feel me, Where I am, to wherever you are [ha ha ha Hart],

Sometimes I don’t want to be bothered; Sometimes I just want a quiet life, with Me and my babies, me and my lady, Sometimes I don’t want to get into no war, Braves people to be free, to be free…, Sometimes I don’t wanna be a soldier, Sometimes I just wanna be a man,

but YUNI said shine your light on the world, Shine your light for the world to see, My YUNI said shine your light on the world, Shine your light for the world to see,

I want Braves people to be free, to be free, to be free, My denizens said shine your light on the world, Want Braves people to be free, to be free, to be free, Shine your light for the world to see, (Want Braves people], My elders said shine your light on the world [Hey hey], Shine your light for the world to see,

I want Braves people to be free, to be free, to be free, All my people to be free, to be free, to be free, Oh Braves people to be free, to be free, to be free, Oh Braves people to be free, to be free, to be free, That’s all that matters to me,

Braves people unite and let’s all get down, Gotta have what, Gotta have that love, Peace and understanding, One God, one light, One man, one voice, one mic,

Braves people unite come on and do it right, Braves people unite come on and do it right, Braves people unite come on and get down, Gotta have what, Love, peace and understanding, One God, one voice, one life, One man, gon’ shine my light,

Braves people unite, now hop up and do it right, Braves people unite, now come on and do it right, Yeah baby that’s what I like, Yeah baby that’s what I like, Yeah baby that’s what I like…

[Braves people, my people….]

By Josh C

June 27, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

Not only was pulling Smoltz the right move, what a classy way for Bobby to do it. Having John walk all the way in from second gave the crowd plenty of time to recognize his efforts. Reminded me of a college hoops coach calling timeout with a few seconds left in a big win to pull the starters.

As a side note, what kind of starter do you think we could get for Edgar? Let the future be now with KJ and Escobar up the middle. As good as Renteria has been, I’m not sure Escobar might not do just as well. Now that I just saw that range behind second… wow. I’ll bet there’s some team with some decent pitching available that needs a stick for this year. LA perhaps? Edgar has lost a litle range- he’d look nice over at third, replacing Bet-a-meet.

By ncscoots

June 27, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this

What, did Andruw join ‘em? Can he play bridge?

Sucker will probably bid three no bunt. Or just play dummy each hand.

By HP

June 27, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this

Roger Clemens is has 1 win and 3 losses with 5.32 ERA. There is no way he deserves 28 million dollars for one season.

By Just Wondering?

June 27, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this

10-0, lemme guess, Soriano is warming up to get his butt whipped in a blowout for no particular reason whatsoever, right?

By SteelCav

June 27, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this

Just like most young, streaky teams, we are very much feast or famine with the bats. Yikes, save some for the Fish.

By MBATL

June 27, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

Soriano is warming up to get his butt whipped in a blowout for no particular reason whatsoever, right?

N8, is that you?

By chrisklob

June 27, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

A couple of notes while reading last night’s blog……

Carolina Lady said: Chrisklob, your use of God was perfectly understandable and (should) be acceptable anywhere. I’m totally in your corner!

Thanks CL. I really appreciate that.

Jason in Maine, prayers for your father-in-law. I hope that the news is good.

By Bob, Journalist

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

Regardless of our curiosity, sometimes we wouldn’t really enjoy having a bird’s eye view … methinks tonight would not be one of those times!

Does the team respond to John Smoltz’ Leadership?

Have they been interviewed regarding the non-existent plague? If it’s been so allowed, someone should be gone, says both me and I!

But, actions speak louder and with straighter tongues than does the party line.

Crooked number, crooked number … what do they call this game? It almost looks like a team sport.

Maybe they paid more attention to the Blog ideas than we thought … or just maybe they thought of them first.

Remember … this dramatic “closing the deal” offensive, broom using statement is coming against a team that was performing far better than we when the series started.

Still, there are more important things … like what happened in the second?

Most importantly, it’s best we finish the game before we spend the cash!

By Ron Roberts

June 27, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

I’ll go on-record, myself as being one of those who thought it wasn’t wise to put a kid who hadn’t played above AA ball at his natural position into another position completely.

I thought it was a bit soon (still do, somewhat) to judge Thorman when he’s in his first full season (not sure if he qualifies as a rookie or not) and wasn’t supposed to be an everyday guy, to begin with.

To answer your assertion about getting offense when you aren’t getting quality pitching… you don’t downgrade your defense to get one good bat into your lineup if your offense is sputtering and your pitching is hemorraging runs. One guy in the lineup wouldn’t overcome it, and having an unsure glove at 1B could only make the results worse.

When we aren’t scoring it also makes little sense to give your opponent cracks in your pitching and/or defense to beat you. Putting a lifetime catcher at 1B i his rookie season provides ‘em that opportunity.

Back when the idea was first being discussed, I was adamantly against it. Saw no point to it that early in the season. We’re still not een halfway through the season, and while I’m thrilled to see Saltalamacchia doing so well, I hold my breath when line drives, grounders are hit his way and he’s tasked to dig out a long through from the left side of the infield, as well. He’s having to use a different glove, no gear/mask, and position himself where he’s on the bag but not impeding the runner.

A lot can go wrong on what would otherwise be a routine play for an everyday and/or career first baseman.

I thought, frankly, getting Saltalamacchia ABs during the interleague road trip was very smart and has paid off in boosting his confidence, along the way. My preference - all along, by the way - was to let the kid hone his craft at 1B in the minors awhile before playing it here. “On the job training* rarely goes on at this level.

Find me some tangible examples where a MLB manager has ever played a guy out of position in his rookie season, having never played it before and it worked out long-term. And before ya spew back “Dale Murphy,” let me inform you he played parts of two seasons and a full third at C and some games at 1B before a guy named Bobby Cox (his manager) decided move him to the outfield. His third season, Earlier.

And while you’re trying to call people out for being on what I’ll say is a sensible, maybe conservative side of an argument, let me ask you this… if you’re so proud of yourself for being correct about this…

…then why use a pseudonym instead of the one you’ve use all season? Or HAVE you?

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

i guess bc heard me.

By Southbeachdietfreak

June 27, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

7-6 Reds on top of Phillies in 7th.

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this

To HP:

Rogers doesnt deserves it, but the yankees sure do.

By Southbeachdietfreak

June 27, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this

Woodward doubles! Is there a full moon out tonight??

By Southbeachdietfreak

June 27, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

Nats need to trade their pitchers to the Marlins….tonight!!!

By Southbeachdietfreak

June 27, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

Washington Nationals Ad in upcoming series vs. Cubs: “Carlos Zambrano, you’ve been warned!

By Soul Man

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

Scribe, I used to write for a daily in Moultrie. It was, of course, an AP paper and as someone with ink in my blood, I loved reading the wire. I don’t know if most folks know why you end your posts the way you do. I know why and I love it.

By Just Wondering?

June 27, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

tony batista is still alive? Wow! Just read over his stats. Looks alot like Frenchy’s stats. Maybe Frenchy will play for 9 teams and have 9 lives to his career eventually as well

By journalist jimmy smith

June 27, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

not bridge. old maid. old maid is the official card game of the atlanta braves and chipper is the clubhouse champion. many an old maid game has taken plance in that clubhouse. and now pete orr is at bat.

By Ron Roberts

June 27, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

For those of you keeping track at home…

Oscar Villareal’s ERA is now down to 3.38 and he’s still not an option for a spot in our maligned rotation.

And why is that???

On a positive note, barring a monumental collapse, we’ll now be 5-22 in games he’s pitched in.

I just don’t get why we waste his abilities on games like these. FIVE times he’s pitched in games we were the blower-outter, and 22 times he’s pitched in games we had no hope of winning upon his entry. Seems pointless to me Of course, I’m sure he’s been a few closer games, but the point still remains, he tends to be the long relief guy in games we’re blown out in, and he’s pitching too good to be wasted in that role.

By Travis

June 27, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

so whats with chuck james being a better pinch hitting option than kelly johnson…

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

Sweep Sweep Sweep.

By N8

June 27, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

MBATL

“N8, is that you?”

No, haven’t blogged all night.

They’re winning, what would I blog about?

That is if you even believe that ther IS a “N8”. (wink)

I’m telling you….Truman Blog

Besides, the character “N8” created by DOB (if you really believe there’s even a DOB), only blogs when *sheesh is blogging. So until DOB decides to “pull” sheesh out of the closet (yeah, I said closet) and create some insults for him to spew around, I’ll be waiting Just like the white winged dove…Sings a song…Sounds like I’m singing…Ooo baby… ooo… said ooo.

For the record. Imaginary characters should NOT blog on JaegerBombs.

Oh, never mind. This post only exsists in your imagination, anyhow. It’s ALL a mirage.

L8R. :-)

By SteelCav

June 27, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

Hmmmmm……..good point Travis. He’s the only one left on the bench, correct?

By Earlier This Season

June 27, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

A pseudonym? Actually every time I post it’s a pseudonym. In fact, 95% of the people hare are posting with pseudonyms. But I suppose I should post with some real name like Ron Roberts. If it makes you feel better I’ll call myself Richard Nixon. Is that better?

What’s your problem Ron? A team is struggling. No offensive production. You’re shutout five out of six games. I stand by my earlier statement to YOU. We don’t have Maddux, Glavine and Avery to go with Smoltz.

Your pitching is struggling so why would we risk a defensive liability to get some potential offense in the lineup? Well Ron that’s simple. Our starters can’t pitch a shutout for nine innings waiting for the offense to score a single run. (see above)Errorless ball behind your pitching staff is pretty worthless if you aren’t going to score any runs.

Find me some tangible examples where a MLB manager has ever played a guy out of position in his rookie season, having never played it before and it worked out long-term.

Well you see RON I don’t have to look to far for that. Bobby Cox did it this year. The example is called Salty. Now Cox has options he didn’t have or would not have had all season if he had listened to RON ROBERTS! Salty is looking better at first every game and is playing a serviceable 1B right now. I don’t have a problem with Thorman or a platoon at first. Now there are two options at first and the other option beside Thorman isn’t named Craig Wilson.

There’s a big difference between you and I, Ron. I fancy myself a fan with a decent knowledge of the game. A pseudonym with a suggestion on occasion. You on the other hand, are regular manager material! Let me know when you get that call.

After all, you’ve been dead right about the Salty at first thing.

By David O'Brien

June 27, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

Most hits allowed by the Nats since they moved to Washington, most hits (22) for the Braves since they got 24 in a game at Colorado in 1999.

By Bob, Journalist

June 27, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

HP, if what players deserved and were paid was based on performance, none would be paid more than the current minimum.

He has but one of the Yankee’s 36 wins in 75 games … but regardless, his expected marginal performance impact would still be minimal when marginally considered … that’s not why he’s there and not why he’s getting what he’s getting … why is he getting it? Because he’s Roger!

Part of the Braves’ problems, if they do exist … is the notion that if I’m already paying them I have to play them. That’s flawed from our perspective cause our objective is to win!

It may well be valid from the ownership perspective … I’m interested in the bottom line … I’m not paying them because of how well I expect they’ll … I’m paying because of what they do for my bottom line, directly and indirectly! I want national prime TV Time … I want to appeal to advertisers … to fill the seats … it’s got to be exciting but who cares if the washed up bum doesn’t win a game or the Babe is over the hill … I’ll get mine no matter what they do! They just need to play or “play-at” playing!

That’s what me thinks … directionally, at least.

Oh my, another straight number and a goose egg, you’d think they’d improve as they gained experience!

By Just Wondering?

June 27, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

With Langerhans, Batista, Fick, Dmitri, Belliard, D’Angelo, Kearns, will the new stadium for the Gnats be called the Island of Misfit Toys?

All they will need in D.C. then is a reindeer named Rudolph.

Quite unfortunately, Rudolph might just be flying into D.C. next year to take up residence, that is if he can overcome The Abonimable Snow Woman to get there.

Maybe then Stan will invite Homey the Elf (John S.) to come be the GM up there and the Island of Misfit Toys in D.C. will be complete.

By Savannah Guy

June 27, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

On Kelly Johnson Trade bait. Escobar at second makes so much more sense for so many reasons, not the least of which is our current batting lineup against lefties. Don’t get me wrong…Kelly seems like a great guy, but he can’t hit lefties as well. We need that now. Also, Kelly is too “soft” to be a second baseman. Seems to be afraid to take a hit on double plays. We need an athlete like Yunel or another scrappy 2nd bagger like Lemke. Further, if another team gets Kelly in a trade they would be smart to consider putting him at first. He could be another John Olerud. Both had/have sweet swings…and Kelly will come around against lefties.

His biggest liability in my opinion is that he’s hard-wired to avoid physical contact. That’s a problem if you play second. At first he won’t get that physical contact like the second bagger takes.

Brand New Moniker and other multi-personality disorder dudes One word comes to mind: weird. If you want to play that stupid game go ahead. Have a ball. If you are capable of standing for something, having an opinion, displaying a certain behavior, exposing your personality through the exchange of ideas on an open forum, then always keep the same blog name. Stand for something. Stand by your words. Build your own brand. Take responsibility for your behavior. Be accountable for your ideas and your words. Or just be weird. Who cares. Whatever floats your little multi-personality and sadly leaky boat.

By Mos Def Presents Yuni Says Did you write that or just add words to existing lyrics?

Woodward Happy birthday hit during a blowout. That’s clutch.

Another win Sweet. A blowout…ahh. So much more fun than losing.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

June 27, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson is either very deep in the dog house or being considered for a trade. Only guy not to play, Chuck James used as a pinch hitter.

By MBATL

June 27, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

N8, sorry to impune your otherwise impeccable character!

Actually, I had a similar thought about the blog - that everyone else is one person blogging under multiple names, and that I’m the only other blogger. But I never considered that everyone else was DOB.

But, if your theory is true, then, I’m DOB, from your perspective. And you’re DOB, from mine. It’s pretty heavy, as the kids like to say.

By Paris Hilton

June 27, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this

maybe they should showcase kelly johnson for a trade. that should be, keep playing yunel, and trade kj. kj has been showcased already. kj is mediocre to the extreme. extreme mediocrity.

By Rosalynn

June 27, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

Jimma has just called me from the ballpahk and he is so happa! The bats ah wohkin’ tonight. But it has not been a good dah … Jimma is concerned that Grada mah be closed. Grada! Imagine that! Theah cannot close Grada! Wheah will Chippa go when Chippa is injuhed? And to the bloggah that thinks Chippa can plah bridge … Good one!

By Savannah Guy

June 27, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

Old Maid? Not our bruisers…uh, our bruised sirs…

Anyway, they have probably finished by now and are all on thier way to the Kyrstal for those little bite-sized morcels. But while playing Old Maid…if John was icing shoulder, Hoss icing groin, what was Andruw icing? His bat? No that’s cold enough. Toes, thumbs? Nah. His head?

By Just Wondering?

June 27, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

Is the figment of my imagination named N8 always so sensitive?

Is the figment of my imagination so sensitive because he is called N8?

Is N8 so sensitive because he is called a figment of my imagination?

Is N8 so sensitive because he is merely a figment of my imagination and not my entire imagination?

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

Does this means that we r BACK¿¿??

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

Does this means that we r BACK¿¿??

By Earlier This Season

June 27, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

If you are capable of standing for something, having an opinion, displaying a certain behavior, exposing your personality through the exchange of ideas on an open forum, then always keep the same blog name.

Wow Savannah dude, you liked me when I was using a different name.

Ok, it’s back to Big Gay Bob then.

By Ron Roberts

June 27, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this

The difference between the other 95% and YOUR callous @ss is that they use the same pseudonyms day-in, day -out. When they make suggestions or give their opinions, they stand by them as opposed to cowardly using a different name in case things don’t work out.

I stand by my earlier season assertions that just throwing Saltalamacchia out there at 1B untested wasn’t wise. But you may also recall, smart@ss that Bobby only gave him a feel for the spot his first time in a - what? - a blowout.

And at that time I suggested that the only way I’d put Saltalamacchia at 1B is either by sending him down a few for some time honing his skills at that position on the farm or in a - what? - a blowout.

Tell ya what… you got any suggestoins what the Braves should do about the rotation, too? Or how to get Andruw on track? I mean, you know SO much about the game and how to solve problems on this team, let’s get your ideas while you’re all ballsy about being on the record big guy.

I’ll be here… all season. Off-season, spring training, early in the season… all season.

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

Ill say it again, mets r winning but they r still struggling, thats is a fatc, their hitters drop they batting avg on a daily basis.

We can surely win this division. By the way, phillies r almost done tonight.

By chrisklob

June 27, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this

Dave, what’s the mood in the clubhouse been like tonight/this series? They sweep the Nats and outscore them 23-3 in the process. Is this the kind of series win that can build enough confidence in a team to go on a long run of series wins ? Or is it tempered by the fact that they were playing the Nats? It seems that success often begets success and failure begets failure. We’ve suffered plenty of failures lately and it sure would be nice if they could use this series as a confidence-builder as they hit the road for this long road-trip.

By OVERLORD

June 27, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

Freakin muts won because of rain.

By TennesseePaul

June 27, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

Great Blog DOB. Fantastic. As for the last question, before the music, with those numbers I’d even be willing to play Salty against righties as well as lefties. I love Thor, but Salty is out hitting him right now. Perhaps the bench might help Thor. Don’t know, but I’m glad we have Salty.

Great game today. Way to go Braves! Now just take that thunder with you out on the road… especially in LA.

GO BRAVES

By SteelCav

June 27, 2007 11:13 PM | Link to this

Looks like Chucky, Huddy and Buddy against the…er….Fishies.

By Big Gay Bob

June 27, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

Brand New Moniker and other multi-personality disorder dudes

Not exactly. When in one’s real life, they use multiple names and personnas it could be as you say.

When it’s done here, it’s called screwing around on the internet. Can’t speak for you but I know the difference between real life and jacking around on a forum on the net.

I don’t plan to have lunch with anyone here. Don’t plan on sharing a beer or inviting anyone from here over to my house for a heavy duty social evening. Not even planning on buying a plane ticket or driving 12 hours to meet anyone from this blog.

Everyone here is just a screen name with some words attached. Nothing more and nothing less. If you choose to make more of it than that then so be it.

I choose to use it as a form of entertainment, not a real life substitute.

Hey but don’t pay any attention to me, I’m just a multipersonality dude who can’t separate fact from fiction.

By chrisklob

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

Holy Cornelia! Did anyone see Chipper’s interview on FSS after the game. He looks AWFUL! He’s got bags under his eyes like you’ve never seen and a very pasty complexion! The entire time the microphone was in his face his eyes were wandering around the room and looking at everything but the interviewer. It was like he was embarassed or feeling guilty about something. What’s going on with him?

By meansonny

June 27, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

Good to see you’re standing tall and taking your lumps on the Salty = 1B thing. You were very emphatic and passionate in your remarks a few weeks ago. DOB had it wrong in his first comments, too.

But his blog today is correct. Salty at first was a desparation move and probably wouldn’t have happened (or at least not till late July or early August) if LaRoche was still in-town. And if LaRoche was given the time Bobby would bestow, the trade deadline would probably line-up another alternative at 1B (knowing Schuerholtz. Heck, he still might pull something off here).

I’m a fan of the platoon, personally. LF and 1B. Even a little at 2B, it seems, although that’s probably one I wouldn’t have predicted on May 1st.

By Ron Roberts

June 27, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

And by the way, Earlier… Saltalamacchia’s played 5 games at 1B and has 2 errors. Certainly he’ll get better than that, but I’d prefer he sharpen his skills in situations where it wouldn’t potentially cost us a game. Having his bat in a platoon situation made perfect sense and I never once argued that.

My deference to Saltalamacchia replacing Thorman was, and has been, all along, because of the defensive liabilities it might cause.

So far, my concerns have been validated. But I’m sure you’ll say you predicted that he’d go 3 for 8 with 2 HRs and 2 RsBI platooning at 1B the last two days, too, right?

Please, provide us the link to that day’s blog. Would love to look it up.

Hell, why don’t I just claim that I predicted Tyler Yates would be a solid bullpen arm for us this season while many folks here were down on him? It’s true, and those that blog here regularly may well recall that. Those same folks may also recall that when the season started and Diaz wasn’t hitting, I said give the guy time, he’d come around. Oops, he did. Or how about when I’ve said all along that the guy would be fine once he’d overcome his injuries and worked out the bad habits he’d picked up while playing hurt. Let’s go further, wise guy. Last season when LaRoche was being panned and booed and criticized on this blog for his percieved lackadasical play and struggles at the plate. I said stick with him; he’d never done worse than .270 with 20 and 70… lo and behold he surpassed that. How about THAT?!? Maybe a LITTLE further back, “Earlier.” Picture it… spring, 2005… Andruw Jones scuffling. I was in the vast minority when I said “give it time; he’ll heat up.” He finished 2nd in MVP voting for the National League that year. Not bad, eh?

And I used the same sign-on name then, as I do now. Am I perfect? No. Do I make up fake sign-ons and claim a side to an argument or discussion, either? Uh, no. Find me the fault-less baseball mind, and let’s sign him/her up to manage a ballclub. Guess what… the perfect baseball mind doesn’t exist. Not even in that skull of yours.

So keep making up pseudonyms to fit your argument when it’s convenient for you. Or you could….I dunno, man up.

By Nick Esasky

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

Up was down before this Nats series. Now, I don’t know what to think.

By BW

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

DOB, any idea why Chuck James pinch hit instead of KJ? It seems Bobby is really put out with him over something?

By meansonny

June 27, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this

Chrisklob,

I think it’s a ‘35’ thing. Maddux started getting the bags around that time. These are long seasons. And they do get tougher the older the players get.

By Savannah Guy

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

July 4 Cookout Almost forgot to answer the JJS call for July 4th cookout ideas. Forget souse as a main course. Souse should not be the main course, but can inadvertantly be served before, during and after dinner. Souce comes in cans and bottles. Or on rocks. But be warned…souce happens. Independence Day party tip: don’t allow those that have partaken in too much souse redundantly play with fireworks.

My Independance Day dinner will be lowcountry boil. There may be a little sauce and a little souce on the side.

Savannah Lowcountry Boil Recipe: blue crab, wild American shrimp, new potatoes, andouille sausage (or keilbasa), ears of corn, yellow onions and whole artichokes. Just boil it all together (seafood in last for about 5 minutes). Season to taste with lemons, salt, cayanne, garlic, crushed red pepper, etc. Throw in a few bottles of beer if so inclined, if not…just drink those while cooking.

You can invite all of your buddies and tell them to bring thier souse. And thier wife or girlfriend.

By Just Wondering?

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

Savannah Dude, don’t take yourself so seriously my man.

Mos Def wrote Umi Says. That idiot up there just substituted Braves people for black people and Umi for Yuni. Real friggin’ imaginative, huh?

As for the rest of your rant, If you are capable of standing for something, having an opinion, displaying a certain behavior, exposing your personality through the exchange of ideas on an open forum, then always keep the same blog name. Stand for something. Stand by your words. Build your own brand. Take responsibility for your behavior. Be accountable for your ideas and your words. Or just be weird. Who cares.

Who cares was the key part of that. It’s a blog dude. Go be an outsider for once and look in to the blog. It looks like a secret society sometimes. Mix it up. A little variety. Different names bring different thoughts. It challenges yourself and your blog mates.

One moniker is too limiting. Sometimes you gotta be Meth, Method Man, Rollie Fingers, Johnny Blaze, or Marshall Mathers, Eminem, Slim Shady to fit your style, your thoughts, what you wanna say that might not fit into what the other character would say. Sometimes, you gotta be Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band and you can’t just be the Beatles.

Instead of being the witty guy, you can be the wacky guy or the serious guy or the stats guy or the heart and soul of the game guy or the wannabe coach guy or the psycho stalker fan guy or the passionate fan or the objective fan or miss manners or the wacky wannabe journalist. who the f cares?

i’d rather be the character actor than the actor who creates a character trying to be the star of the show. when you do such, you become the canned ham baby seal doles out for wurlitzer winners.

it’s about creating a show on here, partna. A tapestry of the individual fan and the fan collective. A season long portrait being created for posterity for future generations who want to reflect and look in on the time capsule that is this blog of what it was to be a Braves fan in 2007. None of us is but one fan but many rolled in one. No one individual character comprises my entire being as a fan or yours unless you limit yourself in such a manner.

It’s a darn long season, man, ya dig? A marathon, they say. You gotta reinvent yourself on here as an artist man, ya feeling me?

If, for the entire season, the blog becomes the same people saying the same things to the same people about the same things about the same people, the blog devolves into the insane people saying insane things to the insane people about the insane things about the insane people.

By The Truth Hurts

June 27, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

I see Buehrle is about to sign an extension in the neighborhood of 4 and 50. The market for starting pitching just got smaller.

Yuni flashed the leather tonight. I wonder what KJ is thinking about on the flight. Maybe, “I shouldn’t p** the manager off. Bad career move.”

So, you’re telling me that KJ will only play against LH pitching, now? He’s been terrific leading off. If there were no double standards, Frenchy and AJ would be platooning, too.

Yuni is good. KJ has done nothing to warrant a benching or a platoon. What to do, what to do?

By Earlier This Season

June 27, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

Ron, I’ve noticed that when someone gets the best of you, you start labeling them smart** and try to fit as many of those @ signs in your posts as you possibly can lol.

I also see that you start arguing against yourself. In your last post you actually start quantifying your position. Before you presented your position as a NEVER would I do that. Then last post you were like, only would I do that in a blowout.

Ron, keep writing. I like what you’re saying.

By BabyGoatEater

June 27, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this

I haven’t posted in a while (although I have read it)…..I just can’t take anymore……I must be in the minority here but…..Andruw Jones is a future hall-of-famer. He’s the best defensive center fielder of all time and one of the best sluggers in the game when not slumping. No not a .300 hitter but (I believe) a .200 hitter either. He’s only 30ish and seems healthy. He frankly deserves more from die-hard Braves fans than this. Yes he’s in a horrendous slump. Yes he’s doing crazy things like bunting with men on first and second. Which on a side note I think is, as bad as it was, a team-first in thought at bat. But he did lead the braves to some division titles. He did hit some important homers in the playoffs. He continues to play great, no Hall-of-Fame, center field (Screw you Jayson). He’s trying way to hard to hit right now. We all see it. I’m not saying you can’t say bad things about players (especially players who make that much money) but he doesn’t deserve to be bashed. Sorry to make you all read through my minority opinion but I felt I needed to be said.

“Andruw batting 8th?”—-(He shakes his head disturbed)

By Savannah Guy

June 27, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Alyssa Milano is right this minute on FSN Best Damn Sports Sports Show talking about her…HER…baseball blog for the Dodgers. Oh my. All I can say is…OH LA LA. Cuteness.

By Ron Roberts

June 27, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this

Thanks meansonny… some folks might recall DO’B actually felt the same way as I recall. He - you know - the baseball beat writer. They get to watch and report on baseball games all the time.

Haha. I’m just glad Saltalamacchia’s raking for our team instead of somewhere else, either as their catcher or wherever.

By chrisklob

June 27, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

Meansonny, hopefully that’s all it is, but Chipper looked really, really tired. Tired like he hadn’t slept well in days but not tired like he’d played in 75 or so really tough games. After all, he did just miss a bunch of games so from at least a physical standpoint he shoudn’t be that tired. It was just bizarre looking at his eyes as they darted around the room looking at everyone/everything except for the people interviewing him. I’m going to find it to post so everyone can see it.

By N8

June 27, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

Thanx for “playing” MBATL.

I obviously really don’t think DOB “thought” us all up. Though I have often thought that many people, have many monikers on this blog. Only DOB and the “IP” people really know I guess.

By Kentavo

June 27, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

Something is definitely up with KJ. Maybe he’s being traded. But it’s weird - it’s all gone down since he flubbed that bunt and ticked off Cox. How can you bench a guy when he’s done everything you asked and done it reasonably well? He must have talked back to Bobby or something. I’m not complaining about the play of Escobar, it’s been great. But everybody gets in the game tonight except KJ. There’s something rotten in Denmark for sure.

By meansonny

June 27, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

I’m a Salt-a-laholic. And I think I pushed your buttons a few weeks ago on it. But I believe in the one moniker thing.

I also believe in owning up to the decisions made during a long season (the good and bad thing about 162 games is that everyone is right and wrong at some point in the season).

I think it was Kelly Johnson who recently said that this is a GREAT offensive team. And if career numbers hold true (Andruw being Andruw and Chipper’s .295 career AVG with runners in scoring position), the Braves are going to make some teams pay in the near future.

We’ve got a strong push left in us for the division title. I’d be interested to see what direction Schuerholtz takes us with his future trades. Our biggest current need is a bat to help win the division title (or to get into the playoffs). But our biggest necessity if we do get in is definitely another top shelf starter.

By Stinky

June 27, 2007 11:46 PM | Link to this

Man, you dudes have digressed.

By About My 50th Name

June 27, 2007 11:48 PM | Link to this

I like multiple names. It’s just as “Just Wondering?” said. He said it all in fact.

If you want to keep the same name all the time, more power to you. Ain’t steppin’ on anyone’s toes by doing that.

If I’m steppin’ on your toes by using different names, then that’s your problem, not mine.

By B9

June 27, 2007 11:50 PM | Link to this

I’d use a different screen name myself, but I’m benign.

By Ron Roberts

June 27, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

Looks like I broke out the @ for you on a special occasion, then, Earlier, ‘cause, uh, you certainly aren’t getting the best of me.

Still waiting for your other lights-out suggestions on how the Braves improve the rotation, end Andruw’s slump and lemme throw another one in … keep Chipper healthy and productive. Whenever you’re ready to bestow some of that classic wisdome before things actually happen… we’ll all be better for reading it before it happens.

“Toldyaso after the fact is meaningless…especially coming from somebody, who as best as I can recall, has never blogged here before. I say that because “EarlierThisSeason” has never been seen here before.

You’re afraid to put your own thoughts out there and stand by ‘em? That’s fine. Free country. I choose to discuss and debate w/the folks who come here regularly, maintain their identities, and for better or worse, stand by their ideas and suggestions without lacking a spine.

You, on the other hand…

And before ya go saying what I did or didn’t say back when… look it up. I know for a fact that I suggested the only way I’d let Saltalamacchia play 1B is in the minors or a blowout. I stand by that. There are (and were, then, too) many people, baseball minds, casual fans, etc., who’d have said the same thing. The guy who writes and moderates this blog is one of ‘em, come to think of it.

Anyhow, your suggestions on the rotation, Andruw, and Chipper, please… we’re all waiting….

By Don-Watkinsville

June 27, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

Thank you DOB for the BLOG. Lots of interesting and intelligent questions/answers and comments from The Fans. This is ‘fantasy Braves’ at its best. Would not be surprised that one or two MLB players did not submit some hypotheticals under an alias. Thanks again. I am going to bed !!!!

By fastasballs

June 27, 2007 11:58 PM | Link to this

I just don’t see Cox leaving KJ on the bench while pitchers are out pinch hitting in a 13-0 blowout. Is a trade about to happen? Maybe it is taking a day longer to complete?

Unless Kelly said something to Cox that nobidy know of, him sitting really doesn’t make sense. Nobody else on the team other than a pitcher ever gets a bunt down either so I doubt he’s sitting over that.

I’m sure DOB will fill us in tonight or tomorrow.

Great win by the way. 2/3 or a sweep of the slumping Fish would be nice before they head out west.

Another dinger by McCann is a great sign, how many is that in the past week? 3 or 4? I know it’s the Nats, but the Braves had a losing record against the same Nats before this series started. Plus the Nats were hot coming in.

This could be the srart of one of those offensive surges that last two-three weeks. Seems everyone is as hot now as they were cold last week.

By chrisklob

June 27, 2007 11:58 PM | Link to this

BabyGoatEater, have you actually watched any games this year? How about any games since say the All-Star break of last year? If you have, and if you’ve been paying attention then you would understand the position of many of the bloggers here. Andruw has been AWFUL at the plate most of the season. He continues, time after time after time to try to pull the ball, especially on balls outside. He refuses to make any adjustments. Watch his swing. He is so off-balance even when he makes contact he has no power because his body is terribly contorted. He has claimed that he is a “pull-hitter” and makes no effort to try to hit to right, even in those situations that really call for it. Of course, there have been several times that he’s hit to the “off” field and won games. I guess in his mind that those hits must be “mistakes”.

I remember when he first came up in 96. Everyone was so excited about his potential to hit .300 with 30-40 HR and 100+ RBI. Most years he has achieved or exceeded those HR and RBI numbers but his AVG has really been lacking.

Andruw batting eighth? Seems about right to me. At least the way he’s swing the bat lately. He has fewer opportunities to hurt the team that way.

I love AJ too. His defense is still stellar. But his bat is awful. And, to me at least, worst of all, is seeing that stupid smile when he strikes out with RISP.

This game is NOT about what you did yesterday, last week, last season or five years ago. This game is about what you are doing RIGHT NOW. Andruw hitting in the four or five spot is hurting this team’s ability to drive in runs.

By The Grinch

June 28, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

Man, I just got back from the game. Good stuff. There were about 40 or 50 Nats fans in the whole stadium. That’s the kind of game that makes you forget about some of the bad stuff. BTW, Ledezma looks like the real thing in the only two times I’ve seen him pitch; apparently he really likes this area. He looked darn near Gonzalez like this evening. DOB, what color shirt were you wearing? KC and I got a bet going as to which one was you.

By gotigers72

June 28, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

Now that’s more like it! Although I bet Robert will find a way to blame BC for the Braves not scoring more runs, or blame him for the pitchers not pitching a no hitter. Hell, the camera didn’t even catch Bobby picking his nose tonight, so admit it Robert, Bobby had a perfect game! I could believe the Truman Show reference placing DOB as all other bloggers, but no way he could blog as Robert. DOB’s IQ is way too high for that.

Looks like signing Clemens for a gazillion dollars is not working for the Yankees. 1-3 with a 5.25 ERA. Yikes! 3 games under for the Bronx Blunderers. Wonder how much longer George will put up with that! I know that I love it.

By About My 50th Name

June 28, 2007 12:03 AM | Link to this

LOL B9

By Braveheart

June 28, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

BRAVOS WIN!

MAGIC NUMBER IS 89!

By Ron Roberts

June 28, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this

I don’t have an issue with folks using more than one moniker, About the 50th…… what I take issue with are the bloggy-come-latelies that wana call people out but hide behind a different sign-on name to do it.

Hell, anybody could sign on with an assumed name and say “I KNEW Saltalamacchia was gonna be BIG and play well at 1B.* Truth is, nobody “knew” anything. Many guessed one way, many guessed another.

Defensively, he’s still a liability at 1B, and the numbers support that observation. Offensively, he’s been better-than-advertised. Hopefully getting him there now and again won’t hurt us defensively and will help us offensively. But the kid can’t make 2 errors every five games. That’s a 32-error-per season clip. Since 1900, the record for most errors by a 1B in a season was 41. 32 is pretty darn close to that.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this

I don’t think Bobby wanted to send Kelly up to pinch-hit in such a blowout, would actually have seemed more insulting, I think, that sending Chuck up there.

I think we’ve got a platoon, and if Yunel hits like that, can’t argue about it, really.

I’d expect the Braves to be getting some serious offers for Yunel between now and July 31. Gonna have to decide whether to keep him and trade one of their current starting middle infielders before next season, or trade him. Really only options as I see it.

By chrisklob

June 28, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

The unfortunate aspect of blogging is that we are all, essentially, anonymous. However, by using the same name the other regular bloggers understand who they are blogging with and understand the underlying thought processes of those bloggers.

Those bloggers who continually use “pen names” essentially take that understanding away and, at least in my mind, are no better than trolls who post garbage just for the sake of creating a rise out of the regulars.

Grow some stones pseudo-bloggers. Even with a regular name, nobody, I repeat, NOBODY knows who you are. And nobody cares anyway.

By Bob, Journalist

June 28, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

This is probably off topic, relative to the discussion of multiple monikers but everyone here … almost … is familiar with the identity theft problems we’ve had … I don’t think anyone has any problem with the use of multiple names … the problem arises when more than one person is using the same name; benign, or cancerous, or purple ,,, it creates problems on different fronts for different reasons.

It’s easy to address the problem but, for whatever the reason, the AJC chooses not to so do.

By Savannah Guy

June 28, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

Earlier This Season Which one of you thought I liked you? Is there something you really want to let out here? You might try: tell-someone-who-gives-a-shyte.com. They’ll have a shoulder for you. You can recline in a nice black chaise lounge and just let it all out. They won’t make you pay to play either.

Big Gay Bob You may not drive 12 hours for lunch with a blogger, but sounds like you might drive that far to do some “bobbin”. And “share a beer”? Do you really need to share? How about just HAVE a beer. Maybe the old Freudian slip just came off pal…Mr. Gay Bob shares a beer with his other personalities. Ok, in a sick way I can understand you a little better now. So, you actually have friends and they really know you. Right. Ok. I believe it. Well rounded guy that you are…and so clever. Whatever turns you on Ms. Confused Dude.

Just Wondering? The two fundamental differences between you and all those musicians, journalists, athletes and actors you sadly attempt to borrow a personality from are: (1) they have talent, and (2) they get paid to do what they do.

MultiPersonality Is actually a misnomer for you. Actually it would be more accurate to call you NoPersonality. Seek help. You come off like a stalker. All of you.

Is it a full moon or are multiple closets opening at the same time for this one sad individual? Ok, I’m over it. Anyone else want to justify multiple monikers just go to: I-don’t-have-a-life.com.

By fastasballs

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

I listened the game & Skip told a funny story about LaRoche. Adam planned this big fishing trip for him & Langy to go on tomorrow since the Nats have an off day in Pittsburg before their series opens on Friday.

Langy is all excited about the trip until he gets a call today from LaRoche saying he’s really sorry, but he has to cancel the trip. When Langy asks him why, Adam tells him he will still be in Florida because the Pirates have a game against the Marlins tomorrow. LOL

That’s about as bad as him forgetting to bring his golf clubs after Smoltz gets him in to play with Tiger Woods.

By Steve from OH

June 28, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

I would trade Yunel for Blanton or someone else of similar features (SP, young, good, etc.) Yunel would be a good fit for the A’s and Blanton would be good for us. I know I’ve said it before but hey….

By Wow Savannah Guy

June 28, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this

Wow Savannah dude, man, that last post was heavy!

By Bob, Journalist

June 28, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this

fastasballs, I think you may have something with the “something we don’t know about” idea relative to Kelly Johnson … I assume that you saw Bobby talking with Kelly following the failed 3rd strike bunt attempt … seemed like a serious discussion but there was no venom as far as I could tell.

Of course, some “straws” have a greater impact on the back of the ostrich than others … while unlikely, it could be that we might him on the DL or gone rather quickly … methinks it’s uber serious … no way Cox uses James if his reason is to give Yunel playing time. They owe us the real skinny on this one … and if reaction is that Kelly was abused, it could get nasty, fast.

By jbutler

June 28, 2007 12:25 AM | Link to this

Hey..so did Smoltz boycott the media like he threatened? I’ve been out and not able to watch/see anything…but no one said anything except bags under Chippers eyes. I guess all that “playing” will wear/tear the finely honed body he carries around.

By P-Town Brave

June 28, 2007 12:25 AM | Link to this

I hate to say it as I like KJ and all, but I really like the upside of Yunel, and the thoughts of a Yunel-Edgar DP combination up the middle for at least a couple years sounds great! Granted we probably get more for him then KJ though…either way, we have plenty of options to pull a trigger on for a trade…I just don’t want us to make a Tucker and Lockhart for Dye trade again…possibly one of JS’s worst!

By Julia Roberts

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

There is a w-i-e-r-d-o blogging here and he is making someone else that I usually like to blog with look SANE! AAARRGGHHHH! Making him look SANE. Not CRAZY!!!!

By About My 50th Name

June 28, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this

I understand Ron, thanks for explaining.

See, you were more civil to me when you didn’t realize that I was Earlier This Season!

:0)

By tampabrave

June 28, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

Does anyone see a trend with the starting pitchers? They all seem to be laboring heavily to get to five innings. Is there a new philosophy with McDowell that promotes more nibbling on the corners? Pitch counts are high by inning five, that’s what I’ve noticed.

By Lew

June 28, 2007 12:37 AM | Link to this

In the immortal words of Ian Hunter”You’re Never Alone With A Schizophrenic.” I just love all the abounding identity crises. Glad it ain’t my problem. Good Night All. You too, Stinky-whoever you are.

By The Grinch

June 28, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, I will repeat I thought nothing whatsoever of Salty ‘till I saw his big league debut. I saw him again tonight. Dude, he isn’t going to make two errors every 5 games. He’s a remarkable athlete, and he will continue to improve the more playing time he gets. Go see him live. You’ll see. Go see him once, compound the data, and give a prediction again and if you still think Thorman’s a better option you just flat out don’t know what the %&#@ you’re talking about. Not that htere’s anything wrong with that; it just is what it is. Anyone at this point still thinking Salty’s not a better option than Thorman for any reason whatsoever is the kind of person that would fold a pair of Kings in Texas Hold ‘em just because there is the remote possibillity someone else might have aces. Glad you only lost a little bit, tough guy, instead of raking in the pot.

By Savannah Guy

June 28, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

chrisklob, Bob, Journalist and other valid, known denizens: Since I wasted way too much time reply-posting to the multi-disorder fella, I’m over it for the evening. I am done for the night. I’ll catch up from here at some point tomorrow. I think, by your posts, we agree on the problem with a multi-moniker issue. I probably take it more seriously than most.

DOB Request: If weirdo multi-personality dude or anyone elseposts anything under any current, known blogger names, I kindly request that you have your IT guys identify and block them. Hey, I’m a free speech supporter…but the quickest way to have chaos and blog failure is to allow sabotage by identity theft. It gets more serious than just aggrevating.

If I have ever said something stupid or incorrect (can’t remember ever doing so…chuckle here), then I should be known for that. Over time, we are recognized for our ideas, humor, style and our ideals. Not to be too serious here, but I don’t take identity theft lightly. And it starts here, if what we say is what we are and what we mean. Yes, we joke and cajole and burp and so forth…but we do it as ourselves. Our monikers are our own and should not be usurped or tainted (we do that just fine all by ourselves). Nuff said.

By berigan

June 28, 2007 12:44 AM | Link to this

By David O’Brien June 28, 2007 12:06 AM | ….. I’d expect the Braves to be getting some serious offers for Yunel between now and July 31. Gonna have to decide whether to keep him and trade one of their current starting middle infielders before next season, or trade him. Really only options as I see it.

David, am I reading what you wrote incorrectly, do you think with the one possiblity that we don’t trade a middle infielder until the offseason, or when you said….Gonna have to decide whether to keep him and trade one of their current starting middle infielders before next season you are saying between now and before the next season???

By Braveheart

June 28, 2007 12:47 AM | Link to this

I am confused as to the deal with KJ. I like Yuni but did KJ really just tick the old man off that much? As Bob the Journalist would say, if that standard is going to be applied to the rook, then to the king, the queen, the bishops, the knights, and the pawns as well. There seems to be too many double standards for the treatment of the royalty of this team and the rooks and pawns, which is somewhat understandable. I thought KJ was well on his way to knighthood a week ago before Bobby knocked him off his horse this weekend. Could KJ be tired from rehabbing all through last season and then working so hard all winter to become a second baseman? Maybe he is just hitting that wall young players hit in the dog days of August two months early because of his extended spring traning of sorts. The old squad has now won three in a row when I don’t watch, listen, or blog during games.

By The Grinch

June 28, 2007 12:50 AM | Link to this

Bert, I never cared much for Sigmund myself ‘till I realized I really don’t like my dad and my mom’s kind of hot. Throw it out there; I’ll defile it. How’s you’re cousin Walter; he lanced Woody Woodpecker lately?

By meansonny

June 28, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

Thor is a much more polished 1B (duh), but those 2 Salty errors are deceiving. Although they weren’t smooth plays, they were both very close. And the last one was more on the ump than Salty.

Regarding KJ, I like him (everyone really should). But the problem with his long term tenure might be that he is one of the more streaky hitter’s I’ve seen (ala Andruw or Frenchy). That is despite his very good eye at the plate.

In 2005, he started 1 for his first 32. Then reached base the next 16 straight games.

This year, he’s gone from .326 AVG down to .268 back up to .299 and then down to his current .271 (0 for his last 26).

Every player streaks (especially young ones). But I fear this career might be defined by them.

By fastasballs

June 28, 2007 1:03 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist Yes I did see the discussion between Cox & KJ. I’ve never seen him confront any player like that. I’m sure it happens, but behind closed doors or out of sight from the cameras.

After watching Cox all of these years something tells me there is more to this story than just the poor bunt attempt. As I said before nobody else on the team can lay a bunt down correctly either.

How many times has Frenchy & Diaz dropped a simple flyball because of lack of concentration? I’ve never seen them being lectured coming in from the field. I’ve caught a million flyballs, but have only tried to bunt a handfull of 90 mph fastballs & hands down the bunt is more difficult.

DOB If I were Kelly I would be more insulted by seeing a pitcher bat before me than I would be to have to bat in that situation. From what I’ve seen Kelly is a competitor & you want in the game no matter what the situation. That’s just my take. Cox never treats his regulars like that or ones that stay around for long.

I may be reading more into the situation than is there, but that’s my take on things.

By berigan

June 28, 2007 1:09 AM | Link to this

By Steve from OH

I to would love to see a trade with the A’s and one of their starters, but I mentioned yesterday that with Bubba Crosby,(AVG .234 | HR 6 | RBI 28 | OBP .284 | SLG .352) and Mark Ellis (AVG .275 | HR 8 | RBI 40) would they make this trade???

Well, looking at Bubba’s numbers again, (OBP of only .284???) perhaps they would! It’s just we have heard about him for so long, don’t know if they are ready to give up on him yet.

By Braveheart

June 28, 2007 1:12 AM | Link to this

Hey, just wondering, where did the Rick Reilly wannabe go? I wanted to hear a few more riffs from the lord of pomposity, the sultan of pretense. When I watch him, I feel like I am being dared to catch a rising star.

Grinch, you have confirmation KC is still amongst the living? he had better blog here tomorrow. we need proof of life. or are you still teaching him the ways of the dark side of the force? ya know, I blame him for KJ’s troubles. It has all been downhill since KC went against type and turned on KJ so viciously a week or so ago.

You are a sick pup, Stankonia. A sick pup in case you were Just Wondering.

By fastasballs

June 28, 2007 1:17 AM | Link to this

Someone mentioned the starters only going 5 lately. Smoltz went 5 because of a blowout, VERY smart by Cox. Hudson, Davies & Carlyle went 7 in their past starts if I recall correctly. Well, I think Davies made it into the 7th.

I think the starters are actually improving a bit. Even during the offensive funk the Braves had some really well pitched games that they lost.

If the Braves can get four quality starts out of 5 everytime & the offense continues this recent rebound, this team is onto something. The starters are still a big IF, but it’s a bit better than it was.

By berigan

June 28, 2007 1:23 AM | Link to this

Braveheart,

Funny, you don’t watch any of the 3 games we win, and I fell asleep during the first and last game vs. Washington, only to awake to huge leads!(well, 5-1 is huge for the Braves right now)Plus, missed most of the middle game eating out, and going to the gym which had 4 sets going none with the game!! GRRRRR!

So, do we keep this up? You not watching, me sleeping thru the Marlins series? That could get old, quick, but we must put the team ahead of our own happiness!!!!!!

By N8

June 28, 2007 1:25 AM | Link to this

“you need to know that there are 10 badasses in this world and I get nine Chrstmas Cards”

LOL! I can imagine it now. 9 guys all walking into a Hallmark store at the same time:

“Excuse me, miss. Do you have any Christmas cards that a bunch of us “badasses” would send out?”

Badasses and Christmas belong in the same sentence together as much as “Robert” & “Bobby Cox Fan Club” do.

Keep the humor coming, though. That was good.

By Bob, Journalist

June 28, 2007 1:33 AM | Link to this

David O’B what are the Blog’s rules of propriety and engagement relative to the arena of alternate life style and sexual preferences?

After you recover for my so asking, please continue … for my question is serious. Thanks!

I’m not suggesting that it is true but it was my general understanding that bloggers being provocative or belligerent in that arena would have their posts deleted and be subject to banishment.

Regardless, methinks to allow the use of “pen names/personas” that include sexual preference type indicators, or ones suggestive of same … are within themselves designed to either promote or debase that which their screen name purports to represent, or is suggestive of same … and definitely represent provocative, if not belligerent behavior.

The trigger for this post is the currently active screen name, “Big Gay Bob” and I believe the blogger should be subjected to whatever rules are indeed in effect.

If there are no rules in effect covering the situation, it is a virtual certainty that the blogger will generate, and/or be the target of, disruptive blog activity.

I personally think that the selection and use of such a name within these confines is by definition provocative, and usually a sham designed to mock and debase the group it purports to belong and should be disallowed. There are others where the blogger is actually what the name suggests, but it is still provocative with the result being blog disruption, just a different audience.

However, my purpose is simply to obtain clarification of the rules.

By Braveheart

June 28, 2007 1:38 AM | Link to this

berigan, I actually have done it on purpose already for the last two games because they won the first night when I did not pay attention to them. no watching, listening, blogging, or even checking on the score until I know two hours or so have lapsed in the game. pretty sick. but it’s working. mccann seems to be relieved that I am not calling him names or questioning his diet or work ethic on here anymore. maybe that is why he is doing so well. like mccann gives two flips what i think. but berigan we need to keep it up as painful as it might be. no cheating. but then when does it stop? does it stop when the winning streak ends? or does it stop when a hot stretch goes away? if they win five in a row but then lose, do we stop? do we have to wait for a 10 games period where they win 5 or less games. i don’t know. i don’t want to hurt the team with my presence since they seem to benefit so greatly without it.

By The Grinch

June 28, 2007 1:44 AM | Link to this

N8, I am a badass and being a Grinch my name is practically synonymous with Christmas. I forgive you your transgession. :-)

Berigan, you do realize you can let the folks behind the counter know what’s up and get the channel you want; even if there’s a bunch of chicks behind you they’ll be watching Lifetime/Hallmark/Oprah; if it’s any kind of decent gym there’ll be enough TV’s to where there will be something of value on that isn’t polluted by a woman’s taste. BTW, for all you women reading this, that wasn’t a gay statement as I was only attacking your mind; I still enjoy looking at you. :-)

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 1:48 AM | Link to this

Anyone see clip of Howard’s homer tonight? 505 feet estimate. Monster drive to center.

Grinch, blue shirt, front row.

By Fred Secunda

June 28, 2007 1:49 AM | Link to this

DOB, who do you think is a more valuable commodity on the trade market, KJ or Yunel Escobar? I would think Johnson would be because he has better power. Age is negligible because they are both about the same age. What say you, good sir?

By Braveheart

June 28, 2007 1:49 AM | Link to this

heterosexual buffer seat. I know exactly what you are talking about. I always hated when I was taking public transportation and you would have a big old empty freaking bus or train and some weird dude would come and sit in the seat right next to you even though there were 100 empty seats all around with no one to sit next to. Then you have to wonder do i tick this guy off who must be crazy ‘cause he just sat down next to me like that by saying something or do i suffer in silence while i feel slightly molested and people look at us funny.

tell KC to get over it… looks like KC and Coach were right in what they were saying about KJ and Willie a few weeks ago… or, at least, Cox seems to agree I guess…

By Bob, Journalist

June 28, 2007 1:54 AM | Link to this

fastasballs, we’re in agreement, including the James/Johnson choice ramifications … what are you doing using a pitcher when you’ve got me? Put me in Coach, I want to be part of the team and share in what’s going on … we’ve been struggling for so long … not being a part of the fun really hurts!

That being said … bunting with 2 strikes may have been on his own or a missed sign … or, perceived by Bobby as being on his own in violation of a sign.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 1:57 AM | Link to this

Secunda, good question. While Kelly has more power and more plate discipline, I’d think most teams would be more interested in Escobar just because he’s such a dynamic talent with so much potential, and such superior defensive skills. I really think he could hit 20-25 homers in the majors eventually, and hit for a high average.

And he’s got great skills, particularly on the left side of the infield, and not bad on the right, despite lack of experience over there. He’s got an absolute cannon for an arm, not far off Furcal’s, and good range and athleticism at shortstop.

By The Grinch

June 28, 2007 2:00 AM | Link to this

How about that. I throw a relatively inoffensive post at stinky and it gets deleted. Whatever. Enjoy your G-rated conversations. G’night.

By The Grinch

June 28, 2007 2:06 AM | Link to this

DOB, I think I know which one now; I thought you were wearing orange. We were in 405 front row with a pretty good view of the pressbox from above. G’night; my vision’s getting fuzzy.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 2:12 AM | Link to this

OK, just saw Aybar lay out for a great catch on SportsCenter. Beautiful diving piece of work out in the outfield. Of course, it was Willy’s brother, Erik. Kid was smiling, laughing when he got up. Younger bro’s apparently the happy, energetic one….

Braveheart, how ‘bout the “hetero buffer seat” in movie theatres? As kids you’d go with your buddies and of course leave a seat between each of you. But if you go to a movie now with your brother or a buddy or whatever, they have these great, huge, rocker-like seats in these new theatres.

So if you leave a seat between you (which you really kind of have to, don’t you?) it’s like 6 feet between you and you’ve got to raise your voice just to be heard across the gulf.

All the more reason to only go to movies with women (only ones who’ll stay mostly quiet) or by yourself.

By BabyGoatEater

June 28, 2007 2:19 AM | Link to this

chrisclob—-

I see where your coming from. I wasn’t saying hit him 4th or 5th. I honestly think that he shoukd be hitting 6- ish. Just his power even in the slump deserves that. Mostly I was concerned with the bad mouthing of his reputation by his supposedly biggest fans only 3 years ago.

that’s all……

By jed

June 28, 2007 2:26 AM | Link to this

um. i have no problem trading KJ and keeping escobar. KJ’s done well, but escoabar’s got a lot of upside. i still think chipper’s gonna wiind up on the DL and it would be nice to have escobar in the lineup.

By Coach (Bringing The Sledgehammer)

June 28, 2007 3:15 AM | Link to this

First off , I don’t want to trade anybody that is young , talented and cheap. In case you haven’t noticed , the Braves have a salary cap. My crystal ball is telling me that Andruw is gone after this season , Chipper is gone after next year. The Braves would do well to hang on to all the young players they have because they will need them to replace the Jones boys after they leave. Hey , Brandon Jones , Gregor Blanco and Brent Lillibridge will need places to play real soon. Sweeping the major league farm team that is the Nats does not impress me one bit. The Braves are playing right up to my expectations , losing to superior competition and beating inferior teams which of course makes the 2007 Braves a middle of the road , mediocre baseball team. Don’t take my word for it , check the stats and standing. We are tied for the sixth best record in the N.L. , eighth in runs scored , seventh in RBI’S , fifth in batting AVG. , eleventh in stolen bases , twelvth in walks , eighth in ERA…… figured it out already , yes I did. The Braves are an improvement over last season but are not yet a playoff team. Only 83 more games of mediocrity left and we can put this season behind us.

By Serbok

June 28, 2007 3:23 AM | Link to this

* chrisklob* and Savannah Guy I Agree with you guys completely ! The multi monikerism is really a bummer on the blog, I have said some “stoned” things b4? (and enjoyed doing it?) I have said in the past that ppl who do not have the cajones to stick with one moniker are lacking in self confidence or self respect. I would lean more towards lack of self confidence. I Do want to give “kudos” to Bobby for the way he has managed the team over the last 4 or 5 days! Not becuz we swept the Nats! He is Finally showing me that he does have a clue about managing. Just a clue mind you:o) I have been one of Bobby’s harshest critics! Will continue to do so! However, when I see Signs of actually managing a BB game I will notice> I am VERY surprised that he has made some moves lately that I actually agree with! Ron Roberts I can understand your feelings about Salty learning 1st base during the season, However, His consistency at the plate is not to be overlooked? He is just too valuable not to be playing. I feel the upside of him learning 1st base is much more valuable than the downside. Thorman is also a rookie, albeit he is a natural 1st baseman, He is also prone to make errors. To me the Upside is much more positive than the downside is negative with Salty at first.

By Serbok

June 28, 2007 3:34 AM | Link to this

I just got online to check out MY Favorite Blog~ ONLY Blog! lol And I see comments on censorship AGAIN!!!! I Am an advocate of free speach which I’m Sure all bloggers are also~ I find it kinda puzzling that A media outlet such as the AJC would be censoring anything that is not blatantly offensive, as in colorful language or security reasons. I will be watching this closely(I’m sure the censor doesn’t care) I just personally love this blog, DOB is very enlightening and I like his style~ however, Can’t handle censorship for censorship to be arbitrary Hope I will be able to continue the enjoyment this blog brings me? But when it comes to principals??????? It just ain’t right!

By Serbok

June 28, 2007 4:06 AM | Link to this

Big Gay Bob Hey but don’t pay any attention to me, I’m just a multipersonality dude who can’t separate fact from fiction. You said it Dude! Just another insecure soul in this world. If you do not wanna stand behind what you post~ then do us a favor and just don’T! I do not see why one would want to post if they are to afraid to accept positive or negative critiquing about what is going on with the team? Whats the point? Purpose? Is it just to dilute the respective blogging that true braves fans have to say? I realize this is the internet?DUH? Do YOU? This blog to me is not meant to be all serious~just an exchange from braves fans with one another. What Is your point Gay Bob Are you afraid to stand on how you feel? Or Do you not really know how to make an objective statement?

By Serbok

June 28, 2007 4:18 AM | Link to this

Just Wondering Doesnt surprise me at ALL That you are just wandering? Stand UP?? Be The MAn? or Woman that you could be? lol

By Serbok

June 28, 2007 4:29 AM | Link to this

I’m startin to think only a Muts fan could be stupid enuff to be using multiple monikers? My Money is on these ppl are from the Rotten Apple? No/one from the South could be this moronic?

By Just Wondering????

June 28, 2007 4:42 AM | Link to this

esrbko… name change do you good… then, i read your post…by accident… now, i skip… men no blog at 4 a.m… all by one self… no one to fight with?… unmanly… no machismo… join the rest of us… drop some more acid… cook dose brains ‘til nothing left… cry ‘bout censors when you no can read… bogus radical

By Serbok

June 28, 2007 5:13 AM | Link to this

esrbko… name change do you good… then, i read your post…by accident LMAO!

By Serbok

June 28, 2007 5:21 AM | Link to this

wandering, just for you? http://youtube.com/watch?v=QehY6KRhde8 LOL when did you find time to do this?

By Serbok

June 28, 2007 5:24 AM | Link to this

http://youtube.com/watch?v=QehY6KRhde8

is this you?

By Wayne in Utah

June 28, 2007 5:43 AM | Link to this

Been out on the road for the past 2 days. Way to go Braves. I have not had enough time to read all the “naysayers” recent comments. We STILL might bomb this season, who knows, but it sure is too early to “blow it up” and start over for next season.

Multiple Personalities It might be fun for you folks, but to be honest, I appreciate the people that use one screen name. I don’t spend enough time on here to try to analyze the identity crisis posts, but I can tell you folks that I just flat out don’t read those posts, as I concentrate on names that are familiar.

Maybe some identity crisis posters are in actuality some regular(s), and if so, then shame on you. Stand up and be counted for who you are.

What would be really cool, and probably is not possible, is for each of us to be required to use the screen name we have chosen upon registering with the AJC.

It is LATE in Wyoming, and I am going to try to get 4 hours of sleep now.

How’s it going, Serbok?

I will check back in tomorrow morning, in case any anonymous blogger wants to confess. :-)

By Bill

June 28, 2007 6:25 AM | Link to this

Don’t get to excited. Tough road trip ahead. When they score alot of runs, they usually go into a slump. If I were the Braves, I would not do any trades until the off season.

By Ron Roberts

June 28, 2007 7:14 AM | Link to this

Grinch… I’m not arguing that Saltalamacchia is going to make 2 errors every 5 games; what I am saying is that I’m not crazy about any major leaguer getting “on the job training” at a position they’ve never played before - in the majors! Some folks are willing to accept a defensive deficiency for better offense. I say the situation dictates different conclusions, myself…I’d be much more comfortable with Thorman replacing Saltalamacchia in late-and-close save situations, frankly. The better offensive choice, obviously, is Saltalamacchia. No doubt. Never said otherwise. Never.

And obviously Saltalamacchia’s going to improve at the position. That’s only natural. That’s stating the obvious. But it is E-X-T-R-E-M-E-L-Y unusual for a manager to put a rookie in at a position he’s never played before. Pure and simple. It’s unusual. Albert Pujols is a name that comes to mind in recent years. LaRussa had a 1B at the time (McGuire) who wasn’t a superior glove at 1B, but had seniority over Pujols and didn’t wanna move to another position. Pujols, though, was (and still is) raking and LaRussa had to get him in the lineup, so he played 3B and OF, too. Albert Pujols is a once-in-a-lifetime phenom. Is Jarrod Saltalamacchia another Albert Pujols? Well, I hope to hell so, but I’m not counting on that.

What I was defending last night (by a fly-by-night blogger, no less) was my earlier stance that I wasn’t crazy about the idea of putting a rook at 1B when he’s never played the position just because he’s hitting. I said then that the only way I’d do it is in blowout games or by sending him down a coupla weeks to learn the position in the minors. That’s called playing it conservatively. It is a gamble to play the guy at 1B knowing he’s played six whole games there in his professional life. It’s like the hockey scenario where a team pulls its goalie hoping to generate more goals by replacing him with an offensive player. It is a bit of a gamble. In baseball, it’s not as big a gamble as the hockey scenario, but a gamble, still.

And Grinch, I’ll counter your thought. If you still think Thorman’s not a better defensive option at this time you just flat out don’t know what the %&#@ you’re talking about. Not that there’s anything wrong with that; it just is what it is. Anyone at this point still thinking Salty is a better defensive option than Thorman for any reason whatsoever is the kind of person that would use Texas Hold ‘Em analogies to explain their rationale.

I don’t think my line of thought is all that irrational. My supposition, earlier in the season, was that Cox tends to manage conservatively and I truly didn’t think he’d take such a risk. He’d never done it before; it hadn’t been done much before at the MLB level before, either. And, again, DO’B himself didn’t foresee Cox throwing the phenom in at 1B in meangingful situations, himself.

Enjoy the day, denizens!

By Yars

June 28, 2007 7:51 AM | Link to this

I think if KJ were being considered for a trade, he would have been starting at 2B all week & not rotting on the bench. I kinda feel bad for the kid. All the hard work over the winter, taking ground balls at 2B for hours at a time. What p** me off is that it’s not like he was playing awful. The last few weeks he hasn’t been hitting the ball well, but his overall numbers are still solid. It’s not like Yunel was hitting a whole lot better against LH & RH pitching than KJ was. I still say Yunel will be the odd man out by July 31. KJ has more power & better plate discipline. Yunel has no power or speed.

By Ron Roberts

June 28, 2007 8:03 AM | Link to this

I personally think KJ’s being punished for showing his frustration in finding out Escobar was starting one game. I think he was benched last night because of that.

Frankly, it worked out for the best for the Braves. Yunel went 4-for-5 with two doubles!!

In classic Bobby Cox fashion, I’m guesing that Yunel now sits after a banner night at the dish.

By Geoff

June 28, 2007 8:24 AM | Link to this

t’s amazing all the KJ haters now… this guy has done EVERYTHING and more for the Braves… Atlanta cannot afford to not play him… did anybody notice he was the only position player not to play last night! Either play him or trade him, but he too good to be sitting on the bench… I still believe a KJ is better than a Diaz and Harris in LF… Nobody ever thought he would have nearly 40 RBI’s at this point in the season… hell, we were talking about him possibly sneaking into the All-Star game… KJ, you got a loyal fan over here and it hurts me to see ya on the bench…

By meansonny

June 28, 2007 8:38 AM | Link to this

I think KJ’s back in the lineup because there’s a righty on the mound tonight (although Kelly’s 0-2 with 2 K’s versus Josh Johnson)

Who hits leadoff? I think Willie goes 1st. He’s hit safely his last 7 starts (27 for 33 starts this season. Reached base two+ times in 19 of those 33 starts)

As Yars said, KJ just hasn’t been seeing the ball well (5 for his last 34 with 12 strikeouts and 3 walks).

By Keyser Soze

June 28, 2007 8:55 AM | Link to this

And then just like that Big Gay Bob was gone…. poof!

By Ron Roberts

June 28, 2007 8:56 AM | Link to this

I’m still waiting for some of that profound baseball wisdom from Mr. ToldYaSo. He apparently called Saltalamacchia’s success, but won’t go out on any other limbs.

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

Is it going out on a limb to predict success for a catcher who had a .370 OBP/.448 SLG and who scouts have loved for at least two years?

By Lee

June 28, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

Geoff -

I don’t hate K.J. and I think he has done an exceptional job at 2nd base. It is just unlike many of you I don’t have personal feelings about who plays and who sits as much as I like the Braves winning games no matter who starts and plays (except I draw the line with Orr and Woodward). I just want the Atlanta Braves to win as a team. After that dreadful 2 week showing/play of baseball and all of those runs scored (1 in 5 freakin games) all of a sudden the Braves are playing like a major league team again. All of a sudden the Mets have gotten their act together also and the Braves simply cannot afford to start another major losing streak. You start and go with what players you are winning with and continue that trend until the winning stops. I am not saying Yunel and Salty are making all the difference but they sure are making major contributions. When your leadoff hitter goes 4 for 5 it kind of motivates other hitters also. Look what happened last night.Yunel will platoon with K.J. unless he is traded and he deserve this right. He has proven himself and more importantly he has proven himself to Cox and Cox is the only one that he has to really impress anyway. There will be a lot more teams interested in Yunel over K. Johnson and the same with Saltalamacchia over Thorman. That is because they both are likely to have a brighter MLB future and teams realize this. I do not believe any trade should be made this year with these 2 players. Let the Braves ride the year out and make judgments on what they have within the organization. If they succeed in making the playoffs and go even further what a year it will be. Kind of like 1991 all over again. If not so be it. Yunel and Saltalamacchia could be Braves superstars of future years to come.

All of that said I am sure K.Johnson and Thorman will more than likely start tonight knowing Cox’s coaching philosophy. Yunel is hitting way too much and Saltalamacchia make be leading the team in homers in a month if he plays regularly, not to mention steady increasing his defensive play at 1st base as well. Heaven help us if that happens and is the case.

By Ron Roberts

June 28, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

I never really questioned his batting skills, Shaun. Please read my numerous posts above clarifying that.

By Savannah Guy

June 28, 2007 9:32 AM | Link to this

By Big Gay Bob Your 8:43 AM Post said, in part, “Savannah guy wants the AJC IT people to ban the IP addresses of folks who post under multiple names.”

Multiple disorder dude, if you would tell one of your bizarre personalities to READ posts before firing off one of your twisted rebuttals, you would have noticed that I never said what you quoted me as saying. Don’t believe it? Then go back and look…it’s all there, fool.

What I said in my 12:43 post was, “If weirdo multi-personality dude or anyone elseposts anything under any current, known blogger names, I kindly request that you have your IT guys identify and block them.”

As far as I’m concerned, you can be big gay bob, the queen of Sheba or anyone else you want, just don’t use (steal) the names of legitimate, known bloggers. Don’t you see the harm in that? Do you want to spoil it for eveyone else here?

Blogs are meant to be free exchanges of ideas on a variety of subjects. This DOB blog is about Braves baseball AND a variety of subjects around that. All is ok as long as it’s legal and doesn’t p**s the man who makes the rules and provides the playground. But aside from that, you might consider a little social grace even when you are anonymous. Writing anaonymously on a blog is kind of like being out of town without your spouse. You either behave in a respectful way even though no one would ever know, or you go nuts…because you can get away with it. I really do hope you reconsider what you are doing. You took the enjoyment out of the time you were on last night.

Be who you want and behave how you want. It’s your problem, not anyone elses. End of dialogue.

By Voice of Reason

June 28, 2007 9:33 AM | Link to this

Big Gay Bob, or whomever you are at the moment: It appears to me that the offense against which you seem to be preaching is the offense of which you yourself are guilty. You call out certain bloggers because they request a level of decorum on the blog, yet you feel it is OK for you to dictate their behavior. Seems a bit hypocritical to me.

Whenever the freedom of speech card is played, you can always expect to find some bold statement or action attached. While your “drive by” blogging might be mildly entertaining to yourself, it serves no credible purpose other than clogging an already crowded blog.

The crowd that espouses their own freedoms is usually the crowd that forgets that those freedoms come with responsibility. And while you, BGB or whomever, flaunt your own freedom, you thumb your nose at the responsibilty. The only semblance of accountability on this blog is the screen name. Some of us are proud to blog with others using a constant ID, others prefer the “hit and run” tactic. I personally don’t care. But don’t try to dictate my behavior to me while flaunting your own freedom to behave any way you choose.

By TURTSNAP

June 28, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this

This is a serious stretch I know, but, what if the Braves are not showcasing Escobar but reassuring themselves that he can play 2B. What if… the Braves are thinking of trading Kelly Johnson instead?

By Salty

June 28, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

VOR freedoms come with responsibility

Well said, very nice!

By Christy

June 28, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

Geez all. what’s with the building the altar of worship for Yunel already? He’s hitting .305 after 82 at bats with 12 runs and 6 RBIs. After his first 86 at bats, KJ was hitting .326 with 24 Runs and 15 RBI. Yes he’s hit a wall, and yes as somoene noted last night, his swing doesn’t look the same, but you can’t say he won’t come out of it and you can’t say that Escobar isn’t going to hit one after 200 at bats…

By Jim

June 28, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

I don’t see the need to trade “the odd man out” in our infield situation. We have 4 infielders for 3 positions. Kelly can only play 2B, Chipper on 3B, and Edgar has only played SS. Yunel has played all 3 positions this year. Behind these 4 we have only Orr and Woodward with none of the other prospects in the organization showing that they are ML ready yet. With Chipper’s fragile physique and Edgar showing last year that he needed to be rested, when he tailed off markedly during August and Sept., and KJ benefitting from some time off, especially against tough lefties like O. Perez, I don’t see that we have a surplus of players to trade. Chipper could wind up on the DL at any time, in which case we need Yunel to play 3B. If Chipper stays healthy the rest of the year, we could use Yunel as a swingman and play each 4-6 games a week. This keeps the veterans fresh, insurance for Chipper, and allows for some platooning. Unless Yunel (or KJ or Edgar) is going to bring back a Joe Blanton or better, and I don’t think they would, I think we are better off keeping what we have.

By cardvol

June 28, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

Why would you not keep platooning at 2B, 1B and LF? It’s nothing personal toward KJ, Thorman or Diaz. It just makes sense.

By geauxbraves2000

June 28, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

This team went downhill the year after Furcal left. I’m not saying Furcal was the glue that held the Braves together, but many times Skip and them would say “As Furcal goes, so do the Braves”. I’ve seen Escobar’s cannon of an arm, and with his pop and speed, maybe he could be the next “Furcal” of this team.

The White Sox maybe signing Buerhle to a contract extension could be one of the best things to happen to the Braves. The Braves need another quality starter, but I know of no one available who is worth giving up Salty and/or Escobar.

Nice win last night, glad the bats came to life!!

Geaux Braves!!

By Just Wondering and Pondering

June 28, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

Savannah Hombre, or shall we call you the Self Important One,

Humility is to resist a false sense of self importance. Self-importance is man’s greatest enemy. What weakens him is feeling offended by the deeds and misdeeds of his fellow men. Self importance requires that one spend most of one’s life offended by something or someone.

By Just Wondering and Pondering

June 28, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

Man’s greatest enemy and Big Brothers greatest weapon is stimulating ego programming and hiding it. It is weakness rather than wickedness which renders men unfit to be trusted with unlimited power. All the world ‘s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts.

By flange1

June 28, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Our blog has become infected again with the multiple screen names of a long time nemisis. This individual is back to his old tricks of blogging undedr different identities and personally assualting bloggers just to generate a reaction. Some of the long time bloggers have recognized our blogger who shall not be named, but when referencing him, our entries have been removed.

I understand that blogs are places where everyone can come and share their views, but this individual is more interested in causing problems then exchanging ideas about baseball, music, BBQ, pies, toes or the MIB.

What can we do to eliminate this problem? The blog is much more enjoyable without this individual and actually gets a bit difficult to put up with when he is around.

I am tiring of the childish gay remarks.

Can you help?

By Just Wondering and Pondering

June 28, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this

We should do the best we can and work together to try individually and collectively to figure out who we are and why we are here, where is here, and what being here means. Humility is to realize that our knowledge is very limited and that the more we learn the more we find that we don’t know.

By Geoff

June 28, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this

The last time I checked, KJ was drafted as a sandwhich 1st/2nd rounder as SS, played LF and learned 2b, much like Yunel has, so the argument that KJ only plays 2b is utter nonsense. Yunel, however, has never played a day at 2b or 3b until Chipper got hurt and KJ was put on the bench, he’d be the first person to tell ya that.

By Wayne in Utah

June 28, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

To all those bloggers who oppose multiple screen names, as I do, there is a solution. As soon as we see these bogus “I am a coward and don’t want you to discover who I really am” posts, just disregard.

Just like the TV. We don’t have to turn it on, or we can change the channel.

Easy. (blog cowards, please alter your screen names as you need to!)

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

geauxbraves2000,

Braves won before Furcal arrived. Furcal is certainly a great player but Renteria has had two good years and the offense was more than adequate last year without him.

Only once during Furcal’s reign did they finish as high as they did last season in runs scored.

By who me?

June 28, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

San Diego has a player named Hell’s Bells? Learn something new everyday on the internets. Gotta love those tubes

By geauxbraves2000

June 28, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this

Yeah, I know Furcal wasn’t the glue that held that team together, but losing him I think hurt more than most realize. That being said, I wouldn’t take a king’s ransom for ER. ER has turned into one of my favorite Braves of all time.

Geaux BRaves!!

By Efrim

June 28, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

Escobar is still only 80 at bats into his big league career.

He doesn’t have near the plate discipline that Kelly Johnson displays. In a lineup that features Chipper as the only hitter with any plate discipline, the Braves should definetly consider keeping Kelly Johnson at 2nd base.

By Lew

June 28, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

BigGayBob-I don’t much care if you’re gay or not. It doesn’t impact me in any way shape, or form. However, there has been, in the past on this blog, posters calling other’s sexuality into question-always in a less than pleasant manner. I’m sure this is why people question your blog name. As far as the multiple posting goes-not everyone does it. I post under my name and no others, as do many more. I have posted my email address, which contains my last name numerous times and have given people links to my website, which contains my real address. I guess that kind of puts that question to rest. I haven’t had any problems because of this and I can get into it with other bloggers in a big fashion. Some even have called me the Enforcer (actually, I’m a big Teddy Bear). I’ve even managed to develop some decent relationships with other bloggers. We stay in regular contact and one has even become one of my best friends and we talk four or five times a week. So it’s not essential that you give away your identity if you don’t care to, but neither should you post as someone else (as has been done many times) or use aliases just to be an anonymous Bagger of any sort. That is what seems to really upset bloggers on the Man In Black Blog-which we have seen from other outside examples, is one of the friendlier places in cyberspace, over all. Yes, we can be contentious (Right Coach?), but for the most part, we do respect others who blog here (even though we may reserve the right to call them idiots upon occaision).

By Jim

June 28, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

If the Braves are making a decision of KJ vs Yunel on the basis of a half-dozen games, they would be making a huge mistake. Yunel is a free-swinger that will not work the count and draw the walks like KJ — a comodity sorely needed in this collection of free swingers, and we won’t know how he will fare once the league gets a book on him. Right now having 4 players for 3 positions is a big plus as I’ve stated earlier, and Orr and Woodward aside, we have something that we haven’t had for years — a strong bench with Yunel/KJ, Harris/Diaz, and Salty/Thorman. Given the financial situation of the Braves, we can’t afford anyone much better than Orrwood right now to round out the bench. Having 4 players for 3 positions means we get to see Orwood a lot less. If you were to listen to the NY talk shows, you would hear the fans and commentators complaining about the guys on the Mets and Yankees bench (even with the almost unlimited payroll). The current bench is not weak, the bullpen is a strength — the replacement of McBride with Ledesma seems like a nice upgrade, and it is up to the starting pitching to perform. We’d all like to add a big-name pitcher (without giving up more than an Orrwood plus a mid-level prospect), but trading one of our young, affordable, prospects like Yunel, Salty, or KJ for someone with a high salary and shorter period of control is not a wise move. We’ve been there and done that already with Bret Butler and Brook Jacoby for Len Barker, and that’s when the pockets of the ownership were a lot deeper than they are now.

BTW, If the Brave fans are down on their third starter for being only able to give them 5 or 6 innings per start (at a cost of not much more than the ML minimum), how should the Yankees feel about their third starter who is only a 5-6 inning pitcher being paid a prorated 28 million dollars per year?

By MGL

June 28, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

Geoff - Escobar played 40% of his spring training games at 3rd.

By roger dyals

June 28, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

IF BIG JOHN AND OLD BOBBY TRADE SALTY THEY SHOULD BE TARRED AND FEATHERED AND SHIPPED OUT OF ATLANTA BEFORE SUNDOWN. I HAD RATHER SEE THE YOUNG PLAYERS PERFORM AND GET BETTER THAN TRADE FOR OLD HORSES THAT AE HEADED FOR THE GLUE FACTORY. IF THEY TRADE THE YOUNG PLAYERS, I DON’T GIVE A RIP IN THEY EVER WIN AGAIN. I’VE FOLLOWED THEM FOR 55 YEARS AND I WILL STOP IF THEY TRADE SALTY, ESCOBAR, ETC.

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

geauxbraves2000,

Apparently, he wasn’t the glue nor did his loss hurt, unless you are talking about defense.

By Drew

June 28, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

DOB, any chance we keep Yunel and he gets some time in the outfield in the future? I know there is a lot of talk of Lillibridge in the outfield eventually, but would the Braves consider Yunel there, especially if Andruw walks. Maybe even Brandon Jones in center and Escobar in left, or vice versa. That leaves Harris and Diaz on the bench or elsewhere. Just a thought.

By McGee

June 28, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

I have been a KJ fan since he came up in 05. Bobby stuck with him that year when everyone else said to bench him. Now he is being benched for what? Yes, he may be struggling at the plate, that is to be expected, everyone goes through streaks. He worked his butt off over the winter to make the transformation from left. He deserves the same respect as a player who has 10+ years on the team. Hopefully Kelly will be back in the lineup tomorrow night against Johnson. KJ fans, stick together!

By hisroyalmackness

June 28, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

How could you even think about putting KJ back in the lineup until Yuni gives you a reason not to? People say all the time that this is a “business”. If that’s the case, you need to do whatever you can to win. Right now, that means Kelly sits. Thorman sits. Period. How can you change a lineup that scores that many runs, especially after our forgettable stretch of shut-outs recently? Whatever it takes to win, do it, regardless of loyalties.

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

roger dyals,

What if they got Johan Santana, Justin Morneau and Joe Mauer for them? Would you still stop watching them?

By Bill

June 28, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

I don’t like platooning. It hurts the team. It’s best to have regulars at each position. I hope next year they get away from this. Harris & Diaz are role players. They are doing good now. Why do you think they have been on several teams. Good bench players.

By Tomahawkin' Again

June 28, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

Nice sweep…yeah, it was the Nats, but much needed after getting spanked by the varsity the past 2 weeks. Always funny to get up in the morning and read the overnight postings. The fringe was out in force last night/early this morning, great reading. Put me down in the “I like Yunel, but I also like KJ; I want to win this year, but I want to keep the Baby Braves intact” camp. I’m just as confused as everyone else on the blog as what to do! I guess it’s In John & Bobby We Trust. I will be part of Braves Nation down in S Fla this weekend dodging the rain. I’ll be sitting out in right field surrounded by the fans disguised as oranges seats.

By Mott The Hoople

June 28, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

Roses are Red. Violets are Blue. I’m Schizophrenic. Shut Up I’m talking…

By Lee

June 28, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

roger dyals -

You certainly have a way with getting your point accross and I agree with everything you said except for 2 things. I would still want the Braves to win regardless of trading anyone and I would not stop following them. I have never and will never stop pulling for a team just because a certain player was traded or if a certain player was obtained via a trade.

By Wayne in Utah

June 28, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

flange1

Concerning the multiple screen name issues. When I enter the blog, it has my name and email address under those headings. I can change the name anytime I want. I wonder if there is some way that via our registration agreement with AJC, our “screen name” could be locked to the one we choose when we first register, or locked to the one that we use after a certain date?

I don’t know if that’s technically possible, but it would sure make the blogging experience more meaningful.

If changing screen names is done for fun, that is one thing, but these people who do so to hide and attack or instigate, that is another.

By Geoff

June 28, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

Well, maybe I’m being misinterpreted here a little bit… Yes Yunel probably played up to 40% of his games at 3b in spring training… but he played 100% of his career at SS in the minors and in Cuba… besides that, Kelly was working 7 days a week to master a position that took M. Giles 2 solid years to get a good comfort for… that being said, we are loaded in the middle, much less on the bench and I think it would be best to send Orr down right now so that he can get some quality AB’s for a pitcher like the spot starter Kevin Barry…

By Wayne in Utah

June 28, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

Lew Are you sure that is you posting, or is it some clever imposter?

:-)

By BamaBrave

June 28, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

Yeah, the AL juggernauts pretty much slapped us around…glad that’s over. However, it wouldn’t surprise me in the least if we have a repeat of last years World Series, where a hot/lucky NL team pounces on a talented but exhausted AL representative. Consider the possible AL tournament pool: the Red Sox, Angels, Tigers, and perhaps Cleveland. Jeeez. Haevyweight bouts. The survivor will probably be punch-drunk. SO…just get us in the playoffs, Bobby, cuz anything can happen…

By Wayne in Utah

June 28, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

Lew Are you sure that is you posting, or is it some clever imposter?

:-)

By Geoff

June 28, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

It was a nice sweep though, regardless of who you play…good teams are supposed to beat teams like the Nats… come to think of it, was our ONLY sweep of the season to this date the opening series against Philly?

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

We don’t have a lot of data on Escobar, but let’s look at what we do have.

Escobar hit .285/.365/.401 in 177 minor league games coming into this season. He only had 8 homers but he had 36 doubles and 8 triples, indicating he could develop into a pretty good power-hitter for a middle infielder. He’s still only 24 and could bulk up some. He also had 78 walks and 111 strikeouts, a decent ratio.

This year in Richmond he hit .333/.376/.456 in 46 games, picking up right where he left off at every other level. Again, he hit only 2 homers but had 10 doubles and 3 triples, indicating he probably will develop into a decent power hitter. He had 14 walks and 27 strikeouts before his call-up.

Looks like in the near future he could hit in the .270-.280 range with a .330-.350 OBP and an SLG approaching .450 at the major league level.

These are decent numbers for a thirdbaseman and good numbers for a middle infielder. I’m thinking Placido Polanco with a little bit lower AVG and OBP but more power and defensive skill.

By Lee

June 28, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this

If changing screen names is done for fun, that is one thing, but these people who do so to hide and attack or instigate, that is another. That is the problem some names are change for fun and to help get their point across in pertaining to what is being said and others are changed to attack or instigate someone. Most people are intelligent enough to tell what is somewhat some and what is not.. The nitwit philosopher on the simplicity of life or whatever this morning - I can do without.

By meansonny

June 28, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

I don’t see why people are down on platoons.

If it leads to success (for a young unproven player) and gets quality players more at bats, then why not?

I agree with the concerns about the limited MLB playtime of Yunel. But the playtime of Kelly has shown that he is a very streaky hitter (every hitter is… but he carries this to extremes).

Kelly started the season giving playing time to Woodward. He earned the right to play more. But if he’s hitting .245 since May 1st and there’s a quality platoon option to share time with… why not try to get both players time out there? Why not try to make a quality decision with the lefty/righty matchup? If it’s working, then great. If it doesn’t, then you know which one is pulling their weight and can make another adjustment later (ie. Thor and Wilson).

By Lew

June 28, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

Wayne-The Dale portrait had a baseball in the lower left corner with his NL MVP years. That verify my identity? Yes, I did post at 10:35.

By Lee

June 28, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

Forgot to add. Posting under someone else’s post name is not right though. I have noticed another Lee from time to time but he does not post regular on here or I would change my name. I know that is his name so I don’t have a problem with it. If he posted a lot I would change my post nem anyway - not that anybody probably gives a rats A$$ anyway.

By BossLady

June 28, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

I should not have had to spend time on pointless blogs while catching up on this blog with any reference to gays and multiple bloggers’ names. I’m too busy and my time here is too sparce in here for such nonsense. Let’s do this ignore them both. I see that some of our usual bloggers did not bother to come in last night and this morning. Such a shame to let self-serving people get their way. Had they been ignored it would have done the job as these types cannot take being looked over and ignored.

By flange1

June 28, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

Wayne,

I am in full agreement with you on that. I think the only problem that this blog has with 1 blogger using multiple aliases is one individual whi I wshall call the blogger who shall not be named.

I think we all know who that is.

The last time I posted his original screen name, my post was deleted like The Grinch’s post was last night. In fact, I did not mention his name only that a certain one of my 5 senses was bothering me because someone had come back after being banned.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

Bill, after 1-1/2 seasons of watching Diaz hit for a high/very-high average, aren’t you convinced this is now what he is, a good hitter without much power?

I mean, he’s clearly a far better player than what Kansas City or Tampa Bay thought, or they wouldn’t have gotten rid of him. He is what he is, and that’s a good hitter and a fair defensive player, really not bad out in left at all, notwithstanding the dropped ball couple nights ago.

With Harris, he’s given two solid months at this level, so I’ll agree with you to wait and see if he’s really turned a corner, as it appears he might have. But with Diaz, I’m sold that this is the player he is. He’s hit for a very high average year after year in the minors, now he’s hitting for a high average with the Braves. Again, no real home-run power, but if you’re getting that elsewhere, he can help your team.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

I’d expect to see Kelly in the lineup against right-handers in the first two games of the Florida series. For now, I think we’ve got a 2B platoon. We’ll see how it develops, but i’d be surprised if Kelly wasn’t in there to face the right-handers.

By HP

June 28, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Lets make a trade: Trade Kyle Davies and Chris Woodward for Cincinnati Reds SP Bronson Arroyo. This would help braves improve their starting rotation and gives a pitcher with playoff experience. BTW, Arroyo has pitched 6.0+ innings 12 out of 16 games his started. Compare to Davies has pitched 6.0+ innings 6 out of his 14 starts.

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I would add Diaz has a .455 career SLG, well above the average for the leagues in which he’s played. He makes up for his lack of homerun power in other ways.

I’ve said it before, Matt Diaz is a microcosm of the mismanagement of the D-Rays and Royals (which may be changing).

By Braveheart

June 28, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Kyle Davies and Chris Woodward for Cincinnati Reds SP Bronson Arroyo.

Don’t see the Reds being suckers like that. Sorry. I wish as well.

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I would add, Diaz has a good SLG. He makes up for his lack of homerun power in other ways.

By Stinky

June 28, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Yes, Blog identity theft is bad form. Man Law?

By Ben

June 28, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

INSIDE INFO. The 2 players the White Sox’s are asking for are Renteria and Lillibridge for any of their so called starters. The Braves are offering Escobar and Prado, but won’t do anything without contract guarantees.

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

Sorry for the double posts. Thought the first one didn’t take.

By BamaBrave

June 28, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Bronson Arroyo…hmmmmmmm. Interesting, HP. With the right pitching coach, I think he could improve a great deal. His stats are bloody awful this year…maybe Cincy would bite…

By HP

June 28, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

Another option is to sign Tomo Ohka. He has 50 wins and 63 looses in his career with 4.14 ERA. I would recommend braves to sign him although his this year stats are not so good because he moved to American League. He used be good in National League and has proven in his career that he can go deep into the game.

By Savannah Guy

June 28, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

Funny, I seem to not be able to post at the moment. Perhaps it’s my computer or server. I checked back to my posts last night (10:46PM, 11:27PM, 11:33PM, 12:11AM) and this mornings 9:32AM post to see if something I said or some line had been crossed to warrant. Nope…all legit. Could it have been the lowcountry boil recipe? I see that multi-disorder guy is still at it. Makes you wonder. Maybe this will make it through.

Anyway, for the reasons I stated last night, I do think Kelly Johnson would make a fine first baseman…for another team. Sometimes we have to lose good, talented guys to put the right guys in the right seats on a winning bus.

By Johnny Evans

June 28, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Wow==from reading all of the above=if all of us was managing=there would be no need of a playoff=or world series=we would run away with= I=for one was not a fan of hot dog Giles=or slowpoke Roachy-sp= I still support AJ and the rest of the team==Boog Powell the former Oriole=said the other day on TV=the issue is==the players no longer listen to the manager,or coaches=or hang around with there teammates—they listen to there agent only==I thought he was right on the button= I do not like KJ= Thorman was made a player on paper=waiting on his field experience to catch up with his paper == still will support the Braves=no matter what= they are my team=and has been=since Milwaukee.

Johnny

By Efrim

June 28, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

I don’t like having 3 platoons.

By CMC

June 28, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I know the hot topic today is Escobar based on his 4-hit performance last night and stellar defense. You had indicated earlier that he may be expendable due to the stockpile of talent the Braves have in the middle infield positions. However, we all know that minor league potential and performance doesn’t always equate to major league results. Escobar is providing major league results right now, along with Salty. Would it be more wise to include an unproven (on the major league level) talent such as Andrus in a deal rather than a guy that is obviously contributing to the team right now? I just hate to see us letting go of either one of these guys the way they are playing. Too much upside to me!!

By the way, thanks for the country music recommendations. I will take heed. Big Yoakam fan, by the way. Looking forward to his next acting role as well as his next album.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

Shaun, true.

W. Sox info sounds solid, makes sense. As one Braves official told me, there are about 2-3 legit, impact pitchers available in the entire market, and those teams can basically name their price. So that’s the only reason I have doubts whether Braves will get it done. Might have to take a lesser light.

As for Bronson Arroyo, he’s very good and could definitely help this team. He really can be a dominant pitcher, and does the other stuff well, too _ fields, hits, etc. A Braves-type pitcher, regardless of the hairstyles, etc.

By Big Gay Bob

June 28, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy

I appologize for missing the point about people posting under other user’s names. I don’t support that practice. I have never done that and never would. The reason I would not do that is that even though I feel that people try too hard to develop their online identity, it’s absolutely their right to do so and to jeopardize their rep by posting under their name is dispicable.

I was wrong about your intent on blocking IP’s. Even though I agree, the IP police probably aren’t going to sort through screen names and see who used or had it first. But that’s a “whatever.”

I stand by the rest of my recent post. I didn’t confront or insult you directly. I wasn’t even interacting with you. On the other hand, you made a blanket statement about users with multiple identities…..then you questioned their sanity in a derogatory way. At that point, you became someone I was going to respond to. What if I was having a go-round with someone who wore glasses and then insinuated that everyone who wore glasses was a low class, worthless, crook. Well I have labeled and offended a number of people that I have not even interacted with. That makes me fair game.

Of course you may like the arguments associated with the blog. There are far more arguments than real discussions taking place here. So argue away if you want.

By P'Cola Michael

June 28, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

I agree…we are platooning too much…but, that may be what you have to do…roll the dice and hope someone takes advantage of the opportunity and is hot at the right time…

After being on the bench and not knowing day to day if you will start may light a fire and let everyone know that no matter who you are, you are not safe right now…

Reneria and Lillibridge for Buhrle? No way! I love ER…he’s a quiet, patient player who shows up every night and does his thing in a professional manner!

By Lew

June 28, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

HP-I’m assuming you would use Ohka to replace either James, Davies, or Carlyle. Look at this comparison- James 4.29 ERA, 64K 37BB. Davies 5.42ERA, 51K, 37 BB. Carlyle 5.14 ERA, 25K, 12BB. Now Ohka- 5.79ERA, 21K, 22BB. Now you mention his pitching in the AL. WE have had discussions all week pointing out that the AL’s ERA’s were now and had been for several years, in line with those of the NL. Besides, Ohka pitched for the Brewers last year, a NL team and had an ERA of 4.82 with 50K and 35BB. To make the situation even more inequitable, Ohka makes $1.5 mil and the other three make barely above the ML minimum of $380,000. Like I said-an unequitable situation. Ohka is no improvement over the pieces already in place and is certainly more expensive. NO Deal.

By CMC

June 28, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Arroyo might be a popular choice for you. You get to see a better-than-average pitcher on the mound every 5 starts, and you get a musical gig or two thrown in to boot.

By DAP

June 28, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

i would really like to know what the deal is with KJ, and why he didnt even come in after the blowout last night. bobby put pete orr in to run, and then just left him at 2nd, maybe just because he didnt want to use his last position player in case of injury and orr runs a little faster? i really hope bobby doesnt have it out for KJ cause that would be a shame and i would be ticked. KJ has been great for us.

also id like to point out that escobar probably will never play 2nd base full time in the majors, because it is really a waste of his skills. with his range and arm, hes an ideal SS.

DOB, is there anyway we can find out weather KJ is in the doghouse, or if it just happens to be how it played out? if we cant find out for sure, maybe we can just get your opinion on it cause usually youre right on.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Efrim, don’t know that it’s three platoons on any permanent basis, but for immediate future, if it helps the team win it’s kinda of tough to argue, right? I mean, Escobar was a key to turning that game into a quick blowout last night, with his leadoff doubles in his first two at-bats. The left-field platoon has worked great since they traded Langerhans, and everyone, including me, has said Salty needs to get more at-bats.

I certainly don’t think you can play him more than once every five or six days at catcher, because B-Mac is too good and isn’t going to be displaced. Salty hits lefties so much better than Thorman that it more than makes up for an error now and then by the novice 1B (Salty)

By Big Heterosexual Bob

June 28, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

I’m platooning screen names

By Lee

June 28, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Ben -

INSIDE INFO from what source?

By flange1

June 28, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

On to Baseball,

Just did a quick look at teams that are out of it for this year.

Teams with no pitching help to trade to the Braves- Tampa Bay, Kansas City, Texas, Washington

Teams that won’t deal easily - Pittsburgh has some talent the Braves would be interested in but they are difficult to deal with, Cincy has Arroyo and Harang but I can’t see them parting with either

Teams that have something of interest - Baltimore with Steve Trachel, White Sox with their 4 starters, Houston with Jennings or Williams, San Fran with Matt Morris and MAYBE Colorado with Aaron Cook.

I don’t see the Braves brain trust looking at any of these guys except Aaron Cook, Matt Morris or the White Sox group.

It looks to me like the best of the bunch are Burlhe or Cook.

Hope we don’t have to mortgage the future for those guys!

I can’t see JS trading Renteria right now with all of the youth on this team.

Thoughts?

By Nick

June 28, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

In Jon Heymans “The Daily Scoop” at SI.com:

“One NL executive says the Braves might be better off giving the first-base job to Jarrod Saltalamacchia over Pete Thorman.”

He is going to get a name like Saltys right and mess up on Scott Thorman. I also hear that Scott Orr should start over Chipper Jones.

By Lee

June 28, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Kyle Davies and Chris Woodward for Cincinnati Reds SP Bronson Arroyo.

Can throw in Orr and give the Reds some money to boot also. That way we can dispose of all 3 of them at the same time.

By Efrim

June 28, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

DOB

But you get what I mean right? What happens if one of the guys is red hot and the other isn’t. Its tough. I guess I am just P’d that Kelly is now in a platoon. Guy has an 820 OPS and hasn’t done that much to lose his job. But on the other hand I do understand that his good stats were basically all from an enormous two weeks in April.

By meansonny

June 28, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

Platoon or no platoon. That is the question. Here’s a few stats for thought.

Versus left handed pitching… Our righties have .052 higher AVG than lefties. .060 higher OBP. .105 higher SLG. and .163 higher OPS as opposed to Atlanta’s left handed hitters.

Versus right handed pitching… Our lefties have .019 higher AVG than righties. .041 higher OBP. .051 higher SLG. and .092 higher OPS as opposed to right handed hitters.

We are talking about position players who do not have a full season of everyday success in MLB (Willie, Diaz, Kelly, Thor, Salty, Escobar).

I ask why shouldn’t we platoon all 3 positions if it works. I point to the success of Willie and Matty in LF. I point to the everyday failure (and early platooning success) of Thor. And Kelly Johnson has lived on good and bad streaks his entire tenure in the Bigs (He has 563 career at bats with a .256 AVG despite his good eye at the plate). Has Escobar done something wrong to not warrant splitting time at this point of the season?

By Lew

June 28, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Flange-Dude, what is interesting about Steve Trachsel? If he’s the answer then we’re in much worse shape than any of us realize. I’d rather bring up JoJO Reyes, keep our other guys and let the Chippers fall where they may.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

Lee, come on. The Reds are NOT going to accept that package for a proven starting pitcher.

By P-Town Brave

June 28, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

I’m w/ CMC on all of that…If that is Inside info from Ben and its true, I in no way shape or form make that deal…I really love Edgar’s play and have since the moment he put on a Braves jersey…I would consider giving up Lillibridge, but only if we gave up Andrus or Harrison and NOT Renteria, NOT Escobar, and certainly NOT Salty…Along w/ that, if they took those two, I’d want Garland and not Buehrle… Also, whoever mentioned Arroyo…I’ve liked him for a long time and think he’d fit in well w/ the Braves, but I’d also take a look at Harang for the Reds.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

I get what you mean, but that’s why Bobby is probably going to be a bit more flexible than usual right now and ride these young guys while they’re hot, try to offset Thorman’s weakness vs. lefties, that kind of thing

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

Agreed on the Human Rain Delay. If Trachsel’s the answer, the question is all f’d up.

By meansonny

June 28, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

flange1,

Agreed on Edgar. We’ve got him for more than this season. He’s a veteran presence on a very young team. And due to Chipper’s injuries, he’s the most consistent player we have (He’s only gone 2 consecutive starts without reaching base once this season).

That being said, you don’t get anything without giving up something in return. But I definitely think we need veteran leadership if this team makes the playoffs. Renty is a premium here.

By P-Town Brave

June 28, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

IF we are going to go out and get someone, these would be my top 10 looks…

1) Dan Haren - OAK
2) Jon Garland - CWS
3) Erik Bedard - BAL
4) Ian Snell - PIT
5) Matt Cain - SFG
6) Javier Vazquez - CWS
7) Bronson Arroyo - CIN
8) Mark Buehrle - CWS
9) Aaron Harang - CIN
10) Joe Blanton - OAK

Also, I would only probably give up Escobar for Haren, Garland, Snell, or Cain, and Salty for Haren. If I gave up either, I would also expect a bat in return. The others, I may give up Lillibridge or Andrus, but not both, and a pitching prospect

By Braveheart

June 28, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

But we have to bring in The Human Rain Delay just for the entertainment of watching Skip Caray set up like a sniper up in the press box when he starts. If the corporate schmucks ever wanted to be rid of Skip finally, they should go sign Traschel. Skip could not stand for that. Skip hates that guy.

By 3trees

June 28, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

Flange - You GOT an AC15? Woah!

Grinch - Yep, plenty of great Tele-Slingers. Roy Buchanan ain’t a bad place to start (and finish for that matter). Remember too, a lot of early Zep stuff was done with a Tele and Supro.

Hopefully, last night’s game, the whole series really, will help the team relax and finish up the 1st half on an upswing.

Wondering if BC is simply “playing the hot hand” that so many here wished for earlier with Yunel and KJ? Trade bait? I guess we’ll see, but I wouldn’t mind having both on the team and see how the back-end of the rotation matures.

I’ve said it before and he’s getting a lot of mention lately, but how great is it to have Edgar in a Braves uniform?

Time for a Friday Night Fish Fry - Go Braves!

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

flange1,

Aaron Cook is basically an average pitcher. Matt Morris is having a decent year so far but he’s been about average since he turned 29.

The White Sox look like the most attractive team to deal with for any team. They could use this opportunity to restock their team for the next 15 years. Problem is none of their pitchers are really good enough to give up a top prospect except maybe Jon Garland…and that’s a pretty big maybe.

By DAP

June 28, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

yeah, i think trachsel would be a bad idea for the team, plus it would drive skip crazy! he hates that guys because of how much time he takes to make a pitch! i hate it to.

i forgot about the rockies and cook when i was looking the other day. i really like cook, and i think he would be great, but are the rockies looking to sell already?

i would like to know what the ‘stros would take for oswalt. THAT would be a difference maker.

By flange1

June 28, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

Lew and DOB,

I REALLY don’t want Trachel for anything, but he is a starter that is available on a team that has no chance. I think he will be traded. Hopefully someone other than the Braves.

Lew, I also would rather see us bring up Reys or harrison or D. Smith over most of the guys I mentioned above.

In fact, if we have to give up Renteria and Lillibridge it would have to be for someone better than what we have been talking about for the last week!

By Stan

June 28, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

DOB, Great Whiskeytown tune… would have to rate that one in my top-3 Ryan Adams songs along with “Magnolia Mountain” and “Oh My Sweet Carolina”… BTW… I think you’re spot-on with the trade ratings. Oftentimes, many trades are “washes” for both teams. There aren’t too many one-sided deals like Milt Pappas for Frank Robinson!

By flange1

June 28, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

3trees - I have a real GAS problem. That is guitar acquistion syndrone for all of you non guitar geek types. I have tons of teles and the AC-15 is one of my favorite amps to play through. That and a 66 Deluxe Reverb.

Shaun - I agree that both Morris and Cook are decent pitchers. I have always thought that Cook had a chance to be better if he could get out of Colorado. Morris is an older guy with playoff experience that could help in the 4 or 5 slot, but is he an upgrade? I don’t know.

P-town Brave - Good list! Those are QUALITY pitchers unlike the mediorcre bunch I put together. Those guys would be worth a look IF the price is right.

By Lee

June 28, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

I can see Trachsel getting bombed as a Braves pitcher for some reason. Even listening to and watching Skip would not be worth it. Poor Skip went through enough with explaining the “Infield Pop Fly Rule” 10,000 times when he use to do the pre-game questionnaire radio show anyway.

By TheCutMan

June 28, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

From everything I’ve read here and heard from the electronic media, it’s a strong pitcher selling market right now. And even then, the pickings are on the slim side.

Might the Braves be wise to look for better value with a big bopper HR threat or continue to play a pat hand?

Getting value in the starting pitching market right now seems illusory and then there’s the issue of getting that guy with a longterm commitment to the Braves.

Right now, today, I’m leaning toward keeping the kids and staying the course for another 30 days until we get to the eve of the trading deadline and evaluate again. Unless, of course, someone steps up in the interim with that offer you can’t refuse.

By Lew

June 28, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Giving up Renteria and Lillibridge would have to bring a number two or better pitcher who is making barely above ML minimum, was already established and under contract for four more years. In other words, it won’t ever happen. Is everyone aware that Edgar is actually under our contractual control through 09? Chipper, too is under our control through 09-to the Sledgehammer and Wrecking Ball impaired person who claimed he would be gone after next year.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Stan, “Oh My Sweet Carolina” is one of the few tunes that always makes me pine for my home state. A tune like that and yes, “Carolina On My Mind” by the often-cheesy but undeniably talented J.T., always make me forget anything but the good parts of N.C.

Speaking of Carolina bands, you’d love the relatively new band Roman Candle, another from N.C. that makes great rootsy rock with strong lyrics.

By Braves20

June 28, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

I’ve got to assume Oswalt is an untouchable. But if not, that would be an option we should pursue even if it meant one of our two 5-star prospects (plus more of course).

Braves management has to wake up to the fact that (1) Smoltz is eventually going to retire/break down and (2) Hudson will never be a #1 starter. This may not be the time to reach for that #1 but we better do it soon.

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

P-Town Brave,

I doubt any more than half of those guys you listed are available for anything less than another young, perennial Cy Young candidate and more.

A lot of those guys are quality, cheap young pitchers. It would take Salty and Escobar and probably a young pitcher to get most of them.

No way the Braves would get one of the guys and a bat for Salty or Escobar…not going to happen.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

Guess who’s managing the South Division team in the upcoming Southern League All-Star Game? None other than our own faux-grenade tossin’, crawling-on-his-knees-like-a-madman manager of the Old Mis’ip Braves, Phillip Wellman.

He’s got the M-Braves in first place in their division at 42-28 at the break. Despite his momentary lapse in sanity, I hear nothing but good things about him.

By Jimbo

June 28, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

The home plate umpire last night, Tim McClellan, is the Skip Caray of umpiring. Both are grouchy and neither seems to enjoy his job. You can tell it in Caray’s voice and in McClellan’s body language. I wonder if McClellan has a nit wit son like Caray does.

Kudos to Simpson and Boog. They really do a great job. Simpson has stepped up big time. His analysys is right on and he has been reasonably critcal of players like AJ who deserve criticism. Unlike Dip JR, Boog knows the game and he apparently works hard to get interesting clubhouse info. I wish they could do all the games instead of making us listen to Old Man Caray and his dopey son Dip Jr.

By Jimbo

June 28, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

The home plate umpire last night, Tim McClellan, is the Skip Caray of umpiring. Both are grouchy and neither seems to enjoy his job. You can tell it in Caray’s voice and in McClellan’s body language. I wonder if McClellan has a nit wit son like Caray does.

Kudos to Simpson and Boog. They really do a great job. Simpson has stepped up big time. His analysys is right on and he has been reasonably critcal of players like AJ who deserve criticism. Unlike Dip JR, Boog knows the game and he apparently works hard to get interesting clubhouse info. I wish they could do all the games instead of making us listen to Old Man Caray and his dopey son Dip Jr.

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

flange1,

I’m don’t know. Even if you adjust for ballpark, Cook has basically been average.

Maybe the psychological effects of Colorado have hurt him as much as the thin air, but I’m not too impressed.

He’s barely hanging on. His strikeout rate isn’t good at all. He’s no more than a fourth or fifth starter on a decent team, from what it looks like to me.

By Lew

June 28, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Cutman is right. The pickins is slim. Everyone needs pitching and not much is available. It may all end up being a moot point if the offense performs to capabilities. Even the back end of the rotation has been decent at least half of the time and they’re cheap. A good bit of the doldrums the Braves have been in for the past month and a half has been from lack of scoring. Even during our past recent losing streak, the pitching (except for isolated games) has been good enough to get us a win with some timely hitting. Those who pay attention to what’s happening to our farm system should have seen that JoJo Reyes has steadily progressed and is now in Richmond. It’s still early, but I see purpose behind his advancement. We might just have to fill needs from within.

By ncscoots

June 28, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Well, if the “inside info” is close to right, perhaps bloggers could come to understand that prospects, even uber-prospects, don’t return major league pitching in a trade. And they certainly don’t return a package of a pitcher, a bat, some utility guys, and a few dancing girls, with maybe a case of sunflower seeds thrown in, as has been suggested on these premises.

By SaltyWoody

June 28, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

RE:Platoons

I understand that the idea of platooning is to try and attain favorable matchups. But, when all of our platoons (or most) involve young guys that need at-bats at the Major League level, aren’t platoons doing more bad than good?

Let’s take KJ and Yunel. If KJ doesn’t hit lefties well, doesn’t sitting him against lefties reinforce his struggles in that area? And the same is true with Yunel…I don’t know if he struggles against righties but if he does, doesn’t always batting KJ against the righties prevent Yunel from learning how to hit them?

And what about if a team faces a long stretch of righties or lefties? When they finally face the opposite-handed pitcher, isn’t the player that’s been sitting because of the platoon going to be a little stale? Playing everyday or almost everyday seems to be the only way to stay fresh and be ready for the games.

I say all this because I am grossly against platoons. If Bobby thinks Yunel’s better right now, play Yunel until he starts slumping. And vice-versea.

But, the way it’s going right now, I think Bobby runs the risk of offending Kelly and Thorman and maybe even Diaz…as all of them have shown they can be succesful at the major league level and have worked hard to earn their spots.

Also, “IF TRACHSEL’S THE ANSWER, THEN THE QUESTION IS F’ED UP”

Man, I couldn’t agree with that statment anymore. I think the same is true with Bronson Arroyo.

He’s a good pitcher…but, at least from what little I know of him, he is not the lights-out guy that we need coming in to the #2 or #3 spot in the rotation right now.

I think you can get close to what you’d get from Bronson from Davies/James/Carlyle, and you wouldn’t have to give up anything.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

Eight Braves made the South Division All-Star team, by the way: 3B/SS Diorny Hernandez (he’s another of their legit SS prospects); the entire OF of Brandon Jones (you know about him; stud), Matt Esquivel (big-time power) and Carl Loadenthal; and pitchers Jose Ascanio (head case, but great talent), Joey Devine (you’re familiar with his work, which is greatly improved lately) and lefty starters Matt Harrison (top pitching prospect) and Jo Jo Reyes (might now be THE top Braves pitching prospect, but has moved up to Triple-A, so he won’t be in the Southern League game)

By Bill

June 28, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

I’m just not sold on Arroyo. If they could get Buherle for Renteria & Prado and signs a contract, go for it. I believe but not sure about Ohka. I think he signed with someone else.

By beachcomber

June 28, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

DOB - Wellman managing the Southern League all star game - too cool for school!

Braves 20 - I share your admiration for Oswalt - just one of the those guys who would look sooo good in a Braves uni but unless the Astros decide to rip it up and start over - we’ll never see it in our lifetimes. Nor that great rookie CF they’ve come up with - kind of a Frenchy with patience at the plate.

By Rosalynn

June 28, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

“Bucktooth. Bucktooth, Bucktooth!” Oh, the cries of tauntin’ youth can be so painful! When Ah was datin Jimma, one dah Jimma took me to Amehicus foah a cahnival. We weah not well known in Amehicus back then. Well, Jimma and I weah eatin cotton candah when these little boahs came bah and pointed right at Jimma and stahted callin’ Jimma the name, Bucktooth. Jimma was so embahassed. He trahed to covah his mouth with the cotton candah and ended up getting cotton candah in his nose. That stahted Jimma to uncontrollable sneezin and then he lost control of his bowhels. Ah will nevah fohget that date and those cruel little boahs that called mah Jimma “Bucktooth” and upset him so. The ride back to Plains was verah unpleasant even with the windahs open.

That is whah Ah do not approve of name callin on the blog or on the baseball field. Some bloggahs make fun of Bobba and boogahs and some bloggahs make fun of Chippa. Remembah if yoah will that even a glass house may have no plumbin visible from the street. Ah hope that will be a lesson to all.

By BamaBrave

June 28, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

Sorry if you’ve already addressed this, DOB…but you’re from NC, and you like KU basketball? Did I remember that correctly?

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

ncscoots,

Prospects can bring major league pitchers. It depends on their age, contract situation, ability, etc.

I don’t think an uber-prospect would bring in a good, young, cheap pitcher like Matt Cain or Ian Snell.

By meansonny

June 28, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Cutman,

Agreed on waiting out the market a little bit. I think most sellers are sitting pat and waiting for the best/highest offer (which will come as teams get more desparate).

I think a quality veteran bat would probably do us the most good at 1B. Is there another Fred McGriff out there?

But if we do make the playoffs, a team can never have enough quality starting pitching.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

SaltyWoody, while I don’t necessarily agree with sitting KJ _ he’s having a real good year in his first season at 2B and leadoff _ I think the Braves see this as extenuating circumstances, one guy struggling lately (KJ is 2-for-20 on the homestand, .188 in his past 19 games, etc) and one rookie-phenom type Bobby thinks might be able to spark what had been a recently moribund lineup.

Again, it’s only been a few days. We don’t really know yet if this is a platoon, if they’re showcasing Escobar, or what. They just won’t say, won’t tip their hand, but I do know they’ve listened to trade interest in Escobar, they haven’t told teams “he’s not available.”

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

All this talk about platooning!

Could it be that Cox is just going to play the hot hand for a while rather than have set lineups or go RHB vs. LHP or LHB vs. RHP?

And I hope every position player on the roster wants to and thinks he deserves to play everyday. I hope they are upset when they have to sit.

I think it’s a little bit silly to try to figure out who deserves to play when and to want that set in stone.

By BamaBrave

June 28, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

I can’t say I’m totally sold on Arroyo either (a 1-9 record is frightening, nomatter what team you’re on), but again with the right pitching coach and run support, maybe he provides solid #3 pitcher performance. Do we have the right pitching coach? Dunno. I think of Jeff Weaver last year, and what Dave Duncan did for him. I think Arroyo has that potential, and others under discussion don’t.

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

Bill,

Renteria for Buehrle? I hope you’re kidding.

By flange1

June 28, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

I believe that we are on the same page with the trade thing. The guys I mentioned earlier are available and we can afford them. The list P-town Brave gave have lots better players on it, but I don’t see them getting traded.

In looking at what’s out there I am not sure we keep what we have, maybe look at Reyes later in the year, and look for a bat. Maybe Jonny Gomes or Ty wiggenton from the D Rays?

By Lee

June 28, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

Might the Braves be wise to look for better value with a big bopper HR threat or continue to play a pat hand?

Like the idea but where would a slugger play. Looks like it could only apply to 2 positions and that would have to be the outfield or 1st base - and who do the Braves give up!!! I vote on doing nothing at present time.

Agree with the Braves having to eventually gett another true number 1 starter - maybe in the off-season. You have to wonder how long after this year Smoltz will be the man.

By TURTSNAP

June 28, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

DOB

A quick question for you in regards to the Mississippi Braves. Wasn’t Jeff Blauser the manager for the Miss. Braves last year? Do you know where he is now? I don’t see him in the organizational chart. Perhaps he decided coaching wasn’t for him?

By SteelCav

June 28, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

DOB - thanks for the AA All-Star game info. Glad to see we have so many reps there (and our entire starting OF!).

Also, for those who are not aware, we have two reps at this years Futures Game: Elvis Andrus (World) and Brent Lillibridge (US).

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070619&contentid=262266&vkey=newsmilb&fext=.jsp

By Thrillhouse44

June 28, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

DOB,

What’s the deal with Jose Ascanio?

I hate to see KJ get benched, but you’re right; if it helps the team win, who can argue? I doubt it’ll remain a platoon for the rest of the season anyways.

By Summerteeth

June 28, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

DOB, don’t forget NC’s own Hobex. Great great stuff from them over the years.

hobex.com

By SaltyWoody

June 28, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

DOB- I guess that makes sense, then. And it made sense when you initially said you thought they were showcasing Escobar for a trade.

Maybe it’s just me, but the last few days you seemed a little more unsure that was the case…and when KJ didn’t even get to pinch-hit last night, it really seemed like more was going on.

However, you stated this morning that pinch-hitting KJ instead of Chuckie might run the risk of showing up the other team…and I guess that makes sense, too.

In any case, I’m all for showcasing Escobar, particularly if it yields us some front-line talent in the trade market. And for as good as he was last night in jump-starting the offense, I think Bobby’s right when he says “you can’t NOT play him right now.”

But, the fact that it seems like you and others can easily detect frustration on KJ’s part (even if he doesn’t voice it aloud, which is smart) still means that, in a certain respect, a good player who has given his all still feels like he’s being punished/penalized/slighted.

Maybe I’m wrong. Maybe it’s just the nature of a competitive player to want to be in the lineup a lot. But, much as I want Salty and Escobar to see playing time and showcase their talents, Thorman and KJ are getting the short end of a stick they had already won the rights to.

Then again, I have no idea what goes on behind closed clubhouse doors…or even open ones for that matter.

By jwshults

June 28, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

DOB, I was just reading another blog (sorry for cheating on you) at http://www.sabernomics.com/sabernomics/index.php/2007/06/braves-on-the-block/ but generally felt it was a load of bull.

The one thing that did spark my attention was the mention of a Renteria trade. If the Braves are really that high on Escobar, why not trade Renteria when he is at full value (plus a little)?

The thing that doesn’t make sense is he isn’t a “build for the future” kind of guy - he would have to go to a contender this year. Unless the Braves fall out and are “sellers” that means two “buying” teams would have to find a mutually beneficial immediate move.

What do you think the chances of trading Renteria are? I’m not even sure of his 10/5 status or anything, so I may really have submitted a stupid post.

To remedy that, let me suggest a little music for the next blog. Since everybody seems to want the Braves to “pull the trigger” on a trade, how ‘bout Devil’s Right Hand by Steve Earle?

Thanks for all you do!

By Braves20

June 28, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

KJ getting the sort end of the stick? Maybe. But I agree with the hot hand theory and Escobar is smoking!

As for Thorman getting the short end of the stick. What does a .228 average from a first year guy earn you? Maybe if just once a week he would get a hit with a runner on base, he would earn more playing time.

By MGL

June 28, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

Perhaps Bobby Cox should go on the 15 day DL and we bring up Phillip Wellman from MS to liven things up.

By P'Cola Michael

June 28, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Wellman rocks…saw him manage a game against the B’ham Barons…his first game back…the crows was really giving it to him…he held his composure though…even yelled at the ref for a bad call at 2nd…no mishaps though…

Also saw Esquival hit one out of LF that cleared the fence on a line drive…kid has some pop!

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

Ol’ Rochy is 3-for-4 with a two-run homer and a double today for the Pirates, who just scored five in the seventh to cut Florida’s lead to 8-7….

By the way, anybody notice that Ryan Howard has 26 RBIs in June? He’s hit .292 with eight homers and 20 RBIs in his past 17 games, despite 31 strikeouts in 72 at-bats in that stretch. Dude’s a statistical anomaly, always. His numbers are so strange, but so good in the end.

By Lew

June 28, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

JW-Edgar is NOT a 10-5 guy-he’s only in his second year as a Brave. He is, however, under contract through 09 (with his 09 option). He has also been a great addition to the Braves-an All Star player whether or not he makes it this year (he should). He has also been our most consistent player for two years, combining his playing time and hitting. He is still relatively cheap, with the Red Sox paying such a significant portion of his salary. They are also on the hook for a payout if his option in 09 is declined. I would certainly hate to see him leave-especially since he won’t really bring the type of pitcher we have need of in return.

By P'Cola Michael

June 28, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

jwshults…thanks for the link…interesting comments in there…especially about the “Big Fish”

By Robert

June 28, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

“W. Sox info sounds solid, makes sense. As one Braves official told me, there are about 2-3 legit, impact pitchers available in the entire market, and those teams can basically name their price. So that’s the only reason I have doubts whether Braves will get it done. Might have to take a lesser light”

I agree in principle, but it’s pushing it to call Buehrle an impact pitcher

Solid, yes. Dependable, yes. Above average, definately. Impact? mmmmmmmmm……..

IMO, Buehrle aint enough to make this team great. And to me that means Buehrle aint worth vacating the cupboard for.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

JWShults, it’s possible, certainly. Edgar’s very affordable (with Boston paying part of the freight) through next year and a perfect No. 2 hitter. But if they’re certain Escobar’s ready, then I’m sure they’ll consider offers for Edgar, and probably already are.

You’re just not going to get the type of No. 2 situational hitting from anyone else on this team that you get from Edgar.

10 and 5 is 10 years in majors, five with current team. So no, he doesn’t have 10/5 veto power.

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

jwshults,

I think the premise of that piece by JC Bradbury is what may happen if the Braves are out of it and become sellers.

Maybe the Padres would be interested or the Blue Jays, if they are still in the hunt. They are the only two possible contenders that need shortstops.

And I think the Braves can move him anywhere. He definitely doesn’t have five years of service with them.

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Robert,

When was Buehrle’s name mentioned as an impact pitcher?

Not trying to be smart, really, just wondering where you got that.

By Jim

June 28, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

What could KJ have done to p*off Bobby Cox? It has to be that Cox just found out he’s been blogging using the name Robert.

By Bryan

June 28, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Jay, that is the stupidest post is have ever seen…

By Lew

June 28, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

I’ve got to go with Robert on this one-Twinkie Hater though he may be. Buehrle isn’t worth giving up what it would take to get him. I still think Reyes or Dan Smith will provide more of an answer than anyone we could acquire for a price we’d be willing to pay. If the hitting keeps up, we don’t really need anyone. But will it? Hopefully we should know before the trade deadline. At least we don’t have bullpen worries this year.

By Bryan

June 28, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Jay, that is the stupidest post is have ever seen…

By SaltyWoody

June 28, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

Man, the thought of trading Edgar scares me.

We’re really considering trading the only consistent offensive threat we’ve had all year?

The only guy who stays healthy AND produces?

Escobar’s good…but I’m not sure he’s a replacement for Edgar, not now and maybe not in the future. He’d have to bring something GREAT in return, I would say.

DOB Are there any indications from Edgar that he wants out? Does he like playing for the Braves?

I guess I’ve never really heard an opinion one way or the other. Just knew that he DIDN’T like playing for the Sox because of the way he was treated.

By Ron

June 28, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

Yeah guys we are gonna trade our Best hitter on this team for a #3 Starting Pitcher, Very Smart, lets promote those people that say that to GM of the Braves!!! VERY VERY SMART!!! LOL!!! Needed a good laugh for the day!!!

By Lew

June 28, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Some have mentioned about BC going with the hot hand, playing Yunel. Is everyone aware that prior to the past two games, that Yunel was 3 for his past 22? I’m not so sure that his hand was really that hot. I think it was more along the lines of trying anything to shake things up and get us out of the funk the bats were in-especially against LHP. Even Robert should admit it apparently worked out quite well. But hot hand? Don’t think so.

By P'Cola Michael

June 28, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

I concur…Escobar is good, but a Renteria, he ain’t yet…

By AthensBrave

June 28, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Thorman and KJ are getting the short end of a stick they had already won the rights to

SaltyWoody, what are you talking about? When did they when these rights? No one’s job is ever safe in baseball. You play the guys that are producing. That goes for any profession

By AthensBrave

June 28, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Thorman and KJ are getting the short end of a stick they had already won the rights to

SaltyWoody, what are you talking about? When did they win these rights? No one’s job is ever safe in baseball. You play the guys that are producing. That goes for any profession

By Ron

June 28, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

If we trade for a pitcher, I think that it will be one that is not talked about in trade rumors!! Thats just what I believe, I could be wrong though!!!

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Ron,

I don’t think the Braves would trade Edgar for anything less than a number one or two type pitcher and only if they are desperate.

I could see them moving him for Chris Young if the Padres get desperate for offense and the Braves for pitching.

Don’t know if the Padres would be willing to part with a young guy who has been their best pitcher but it’s the kind of move that makes sense for both sides…if both teams get desperate.

Who said they would consider trading him for a #3?

By Steve

June 28, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Sadly, DOB realizes what Bobby Cox does not: starting Thorman is a terrible idea. By any measurable standard, Scott Thorman is a terrible offensive player. Why, oh why, was Chris Woodward playing first base a few days ago? Why, oh why, does a guy with a batting average below the Mendoza Line (Andruw) bat fourth? Why, oh why, is Pete Orr still on the roster? Only in Atlanta, where some outdated notion of player loyalty overrides athletic performance…

By SaltyWoody

June 28, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

AthensBrave

What are YOU talking about?

KJ won the 2b job in the offseason with a ridiculous amount of time spent learning the position and rehabbing from his injury last year. He was proclaimed as the starting 2b at the beginning of the year. And, all of a sudden, he’s being replaced by Escobar…who, as someone just pointed out before last night, was 3 for his last 22. So, I wouldn’t consider that playing the hot hand.

I’m just curious as to Bobby’s motivation behind sitting KJ…especially considering KJ seems, by all accounts, pretty peaved that he’s not playing. Although, DOB’s demonstration that KJ is mired in his own slump seems to provide rationale for that.

I’m also starting to agree with a couple of the arguments here that Bobby is just trying anything at this point to jumpstart his offense…and it looks like it worked…so, that’s great. That’s why I’m not a manager and he is.

Playing Salty in place of Thorman I can understand, at least against lefties. But my point was that Thorman, like KJ, was also proclaimed to be the starting 1b at the beginning of the year. Yet, he hasn’t gotten a chance to play consistently. He was benched a lot in favor of Craig Wilson, who was playing even worse than he was, and now he’s being benched for Salty.

How is a guy like Thorman, seeing his first real action in the majors, supposed to learn anything or develop at all when he has no idea when or if he’s going to play?

And how is KJ supposed to learn to hit lefties if he’s never allowed to play against them?

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

I said earlier I see Escobar as a Placido Polanco type with a little less skill AVG and on-base wise, but developing into a better power hitter and already a significantly better defensive player.

Right now I think he’s Polanco with less AVG and on-base skills and about the same power and much better defensive skills.

I think he’d be fine as an everyday SS right now, although not as good as Renteria.

But if the Braves can get a legit Cy Young contender say 28-29 or younger, I think they should at least consider moving Edgar.

By P'Cola Michael

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

I concur…Escobar is good, but a Renteria, he ain’t yet…

By Goat Horns

June 28, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

I have no problem with Escobar being our utility infielder for the rest of the season. He can play second base against some lefties, spell Chipper once a week (even though Chipper told Smoltz he would be in there every day the rest of the way) and spell Edgar once a week.

That should get him in the lineup 3 or 4 days a week.

The next big question is: If Escobar is the utility infielder, why are we keeping Orr and Woodward?

At least one of them has to go so that we can bring up a 3rd catcher (Pena). This will free up Salty to play first base and pinch hit without the fear of using him and leaving us without a backup catcher.

By Renegator

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

AthensBrave: you wrote “SaltyWoody, what are you talking about? When did they win these rights? No one’s job is ever safe in baseball. You play the guys that are producing. That goes for any profession”

This is true except in the case of Andruw Jones. It appears no matter how poorly he plays offensively - his position at #4 in the order is always his…

By FLBRAVESFAN

June 28, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

So let me understand this. A guy goes 6 for his last 10 replacing a guy who is 0 for his last 14 and he’s not the hot or at least hot(ter) hand?

Not a knock at KJ just sensible baseball on Cox’s part.

By Efrim

June 28, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Keep them all and deal prospects like Lillibridge and Brandon Jones for a #3 starter.

By Lew

June 28, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Salty/Woody-I pretty much agree with you on KJ seemingly being screwed. However, like I mentioned before, I think Bobby was just trying to shake things up and Escobar went wild. Re: the other day. I’m familiar with St. Mike’s. My wife is Dean of Admissions at the Law School and does talks to all the pre-law students at Vermont Colleges and Universities.

By ernesto

June 28, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Here, here. Why exactly are we still hanging on to either Orr or Woodward? Neither are any good - clear a spot for Pena by getting rid of one, Orr’s got options that should be a no-brainer.

Though why we’d keep either is a bit of headscratcher.

By Lee

June 28, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

What really scares me is if we trade Yunel for a pitcher and Chipper gets hurt - we are back in the same situation as before with Orr and Woodward starting. In other words - losses galore. If Salty gets traded we are back with no-hit Thorman at first, nobody to back him up and Pena as the back-up catcher. Not much hitting in other words - more losses.

Goat Horn -

Good point. Keep Yunel and let Woodward or Orr go and bring Pena back up. That will solve a lot of things.

By BEST LINE OF THE DAY

June 28, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

“I see Escobar as a Placido Polanco type with less AVG skills….”

Call the Tigers and offer them Esocobar for Polanco straight up and see how fast their second baseman is on a plane heading south.

By Capricorn One

June 28, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

It is a shame there has been more talk about Johnson and Yunel platooning on this blog today instead of the Braves sweeping the Nats and playing excellent ball. Johnson must be paying half of the bloggers or he has serveral relatives on here to petition for his return to the starting lineup. Folks we swept a series and have only done that once this year and actaully hit during the series.

By news guy

June 28, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

BGB and Savannah Guy I share your condemnation of those who would have the temerity to assume an identity for the assumed purpose of hiding the identity they were hiding behind….I assume.What if Big Gay Bob posted as Little Gay Bob (yea that’s gonna happen) or Savannah Guy as Brunswick guy.I’ve seen enough Star Trek and Twilight zone episodes to know that in assumed worlds you should assume nothing.Is it harmless ? could be,but it could cause a huge roid (sorry Bob)on the fabric of space or something.So fellow shadowy occupants of the bloggosphere think of your decendents (again Bob sorry)and think before you post.

By Renegator

June 28, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

If we trade Escobar and lose Chipper to injury - we can always play Willie Harris at 3rd. He filled in there nicely already once this year. That would get us Harris & Diaz in the line-up at the same time.

I would think that Escobar and Harris would be great super - subs and we should get rid of Orr and Squidward.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

Efrim, Lillibridge and especially Brandon Jones are projected to be lineup regulars in the near future, Jones very easily could be in the lineup next season.

And you’re going to trade them BOTH for a No. 3 starter?

By Efrim

June 28, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

Escobar has a 4 hit game and the guy is Craig Biggio.

Joking, but honestly. The guy is good, but lets see if he can maintain this over a longer stretch than just 80 at bats.

By BossLady

June 28, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

Relax guys, remember scroll past those posts and keep on blogging.

By BossLady

June 28, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

Relax guys, remember scroll past those posts and keep on blogging.

By ernesto

June 28, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

You can’t deal Brandon Jones, not with Andruw leaving next year, that’s just crazy talk.

So when Andruw goes by the way, what’s the next payroll number they’ll be shooting for $70, $75 milion?

By ncscoots

June 28, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Folks, Edgar and Chipper aren’t going to sit one day a week so Escobar can get ABs. That way lies madness. You actually think that taking either one of those bats out of the lineup for 13 extra games is a SMART move?

By SaltyWoody

June 28, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

LEW Your wife must love her job. That’s a great gig and in a great location.

Having moved out west myself (to CO and then to SF), I’ve got to say that the skiing in VT doesn’t hold a candle to what’s available out here. However, I haven’t found a more quaint and charming town that Burlington…and I’ll always fondly remember my frequent drives up to Jay Peak and Stowe.

Summers in Vermont were great, as well, with so much to do on Lake Champlain and hiking/camping in the Northeast Kingdom.

Is that where you both live?

By meansonny

June 28, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

Saltywoody,

Players pick up lots of good habits and advise while up at the MLB level. They learn to hone those skills with consistent playing time.

Consistent playing time can be 50% of the games played.

If you want a 23 year old playing everyday with a .225-.250 AVG for 2.5 seasons, then have at it. How about having 3 of them at 8 positions around the diamond?

I’d rather keep the young players in a position to succeed without too much pressure (and with the advantages of the lefty/righty matchup).

It seems to be working OK right now… but the only concern I had with the platoon was using it at the top of the order. The first 4-5 spots of the order usually need consistent roles (at least that’s what I’m told).

By Shaun

June 28, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

BEST LINE OF THE DAY,

What’s your point?

Polanco is much older, much more expensive and isn’t going to get better.

Of course the Tigers would jump at that trade but the Braves would not (duh).

Kind of like Salty is a Jorge Posado type player but of course it would be stupid to give up Salty for Posada at this point.

By Braves20

June 28, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Efrim - At no time did I see anyone say that Escobar was the most overrated player in the last two decades of baseball. Kidding - sort of - but those gold gloves Biggio won because of his stick make me want to throw up.

By flange1

June 28, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

I keep thinking that getting Jermaine Dye might be the move to mak. He would be a summer rental. He starts in left moving Willie and Diaz to the bench. Then you have a good lefty and right pinch hitter on the bench. Drop Orr and bring up Pena and you have a very versatile team with a pretty good bench.

Wonder what it would take?

By AthensBrave

June 28, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

SaltyWoody—- I think Thorman has had ample opportunity to show what he can do, and he hasn’t produced. I’m not saying that he never will, but he’s had plenty of chances. Do you really want to see Thorman over Salty right now? You might be the only Braves fan that feels that way. I think KJ has done a solid job, but there are no crybabies in professional sports. Actually, there are a lot…but there shouldn’t be. They are showcasing Yunel to the league. I don’t want to trade any of these young studs. Is there anyone else we can trade to get pitching?

By SaltyWoody

June 28, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

Capricorn One That’s because it was against the Nats. If we didn’t sweep, throwing Hudson AND Smoltz, then there would have been something to talk about.

As it is, seeing your offense light up a team that has next to nothing in the pitching department isn’t that exciting.

By ernesto

June 28, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

HEADLINE: EVALUATING THE REDMAN SIGNING.

Bad. Just plain bad. God-awful really. Horrific on the scale of a 70’s disaster movie. All and all, not so good.

By BamaBrave

June 28, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

Sorry, Capricorn… I’m not going paint a Tomahawk on my face for sweeping the Nats. We should sweep the Nats. I know what you mean, though. This blog can be like an ADD convention. At least we seem to have evolved past the moniker-juggling and sexual preference opines…

By nother guy

June 28, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

DOB Water,water everywhere.Those players Jones and Lillibrige are exciting young regulars.What about all these young starting pitchers we keep seeing post great numbers in the minors though ? Again, not a lot to drink.

By Thrillhouse44

June 28, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

NewsGuy,

You had me laughing on this “could be,but it could cause a huge roid (sorry Bob)on the fabric of space or something.”.

Since the Braves have to have one representative at the All-Star game, who do you think it’ll be? Renteria? Smoltz?

By Tyler

June 28, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

I don’t think the Braves will be able to get Haren for anything, but Harden is a serious option. As is Buerhle, Aaron Cook, and absolutely Matt Cain and Bronson Arroyo. I would give up Andrus and probably Escobar because I have more faith in Lillbridge, but who knows, Escobar is pretty damn good.

On a side note, I think we should trade for the Oakland pitching coach, he’s amazing!

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

Flange, you send Harris and Diaz, as hot as they are, to the bench and replace them with Dye, who’s hitting .230 with 11 homers and a pathetic .286 OBP? Then you could have a left fielder hitting .230 and a CF hitting under .200.

By SaltyWoody

June 28, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

Athens Actually, I’m 100% FOR Salty playing 1st. I think his bat’s too good to keep out of the lineup and if they are considering trading him, those 2 homerun performances will do nothing but help that cause.

And I’m also not implying that I’d rather have Thorman out there either. My point was simply that Bobby uses a lot of these lefty/righty platoons…and I don’t like it. I feel like it shakes up the lineup too much on a daily basis and doesn’t give the younger guys like KJ and Thor any assurance that they’ll play.

As a result, I feel like they’ll try and press more when they DO eventually get a chance to play, and this causes their performance to suffer.

In fact, Bobby’s still doing it with Thor and Salty…and I wish he’d just permanently insert Salty at 1st and be done with this. Call up Pena, so we have a second catcher, and make Salty your 1b. It’s not like we’re losing amazing defensive capability by putting Thor on the bench.

By Tyler

June 28, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

Another thought that nobody really explores: We have two very productive left fielders. Don’t you think we could get a good pitcher for one? Although i hate to see one go.

By TheCutMan

June 28, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

A little of this and that. Having attended the early spring training games this past March, I do agree with DOB that Brandon Jones has the look and cut of a solid and perhaps, star player for the future. Yunel Escobar also impressed me on those first 3 days of March, ‘07 and those YE chickens are coming home to roost already.

On another post, Salty/Woody has made an excellent point on platooning and the value of same. On the one hand we have the advantage of the lefty/righty matchups where the hitter seemingly has the advantage with all the pitcher’s stuff having to come in toward his hitting zones.

But then, what price do we place on the CONFIDENCE of the young hitter in being able to take on all comers and ascend his skills because of that confidence? Interesting dichotomy for sure.

I’d be most interested in seeing some research on this topic because, like all of us who are fans or previous players of the game, are some guys being unfairly slotted to platoon roles while others are benefiting from it?

The BIG question remains and that is, how does one discern between the two? Maybe an in-depth analysis based on real and true empirical findings could offer a clue? Can anyone tell us something we don’t know along these lines? If so, I’d be most eager to know, wouldn’t you?

By Yars

June 28, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

KJ just got cold at the plate at the wrong time. Yet, his overall numbers are still pretty solid. Yunel has proved that he should be playing everyday, somewhere. However, it shouldn’t be at the expense of Kelly. I think a platoon at 3 different positions is rather silly, especially at 2B. Diaz/Harris platoon is working, especially since Harris can’t hit LH pitching. Thor has been given every opportunity to prove he should be an everyday 1B, but he still has a hard time hitting LH pitching. Regarding the 2B platoon, (It is a platoon now. It’s too obvious) KJ can hit both LH & RH pitching. He doesn’t have much of a problem with either. It just seems that Bobby is evaluating him on the last 3-4 weeks, not the last 75 games. Maybe we are all reading too much into this regarding KJ/Yunel. I just don’t see the logic in only having KJ play in 3 or 4 games per week now. I’d still rather have Yunel traded then KJ. Not that I dislike Yunel. Hell, he’s swinging a hot bat right now & I hope he continues to help us win games, but if we can get a quality starting pitcher for him, I’m all for it. Now Playing: Walking In My Shoes by Depeche Mode

By jed

June 28, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

trade renteria?! are you people insane???? you know, if chipper had renteria’s numbers and somebody recommended trading him, that person would justifiably be laughed off the board. but sure enough…people want to trade renteria. stoopid.

hey…here’s an idea. wait til the offseason and move chipper to an AL team where he can be an effective DH. he might stand a chance of staying healthy that way. and he might even welcome/approve the trade. then move renteria to 3b. but trade renteria? that just pi$$es me off…

By A-ville Ranger

June 28, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Flange1 I like the idea of picking up Dye.I’m not up on this, is there reason to think he may be available ? I lived in Greenville when he played for that stacked team in the early 90s.I thought he was the best prospect out of Javy,Tarasco,etc(Chipper wasn’t there).Ernesto Liberty swears payroll will not go down,and most likely will go up.It’d be great to see it jump to 95 or so but don’t hold your breath.

By nilesh

June 28, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Do not PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE trade trade SALTY AND ESCOBAR.. THANKS from all the fans of ATL BRAVES…

By OVERLORD

June 28, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

I think there are more chances that the braves deal KJ and/or Thorman than there is they deal Salty, Yunel im not sure, he could be send for some starter, not salty, I heard some interview made to JS that is in MLB.com and the way he tlks about Salty it is pretty clear that the guy is not going anywhere. I could understand if there is not muh movement by JS because position players there is not much need for now that we know that salty and yunel r ready, and getting a pitcher will cost one of those 2, so it will be difficult. If we ship thorman or KJ and other top prospect we wont get what we need for our rotation, so i think they will start moving pitchers inside the organization all the way around until they find the way to make us better, but i wouldnt count on a big trade.

By rammerjammer

June 28, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

If the White Sox really will trade Buehrle for Renteria and Lillibridge, I say do it.

Escobar is not Edgar, but Buehrle is not Davies or Carlyle. Not even close.

Yuni will be fine at SS. And Lillibridge’s future was in the OF anyway, where Francoeur and Brandon Jones have two slots spoken for.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 28, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

this journalist reports that chipper may be close to a big endorsement deal akin to francoeur’s deal with delta. socks. that’s right. socks. chipper wears three pair of socks. now, if everyone started wearing three pair of socks every day … well, sock stock could go through the roof. imagine pete orr with three pair of canadian socks pulled high - one above the other. think of george w bush wearing three pair of socks in the oval office. or carrot top with three pair of socks on stage. now for a catchy slogan for chipper, “uh, got socks?” chipper jones’ autographed socks for children. $7 per sock autograph X 3 socks per foot X 2 feet = $44 dob math. this enterprise may take chipper from the playing field. old ballplayers need to find security after the leotard no longer fits. and do those leotards come with instructions? and whither carroll rogers?

By Mike M

June 28, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

Braves certainly have a lot of options when it comes to trades. They have some talented and youthful players that many teams looking to unload some vets would certainly be interested in. I however like the energy and enthusiasm that some of the younger players are bringing to the ball park these days. I would hate to see the Braves unload either Salty or Escobar in return for someone we may not be able to sign for years to come. We know that both of those players could be around and produce for many years. I know we have some issues with starting pitchers right now, but, why not be patient and let’s see what is out there and not unload players that might be in our system for a long time and really produce. Remember, when we were healthy early in the year (and AJ was struggling at that time too), we played very good baseball against the teams in the Eastern Division. Maybe over the break, some players can get better and we can have a great second half. Let’s face it, with some adjustments to the roster and the depth we currently have in position players, we still have the makings of a good ball club with the nice mix of veteran players and youth. Only question is can the pitchers stay healthy? Our 3,4, and 5 starters have shown some glimpses of hope over the past few weeks. All are young and certainly need to be more consistent and may happen in the second half. And as we all know, it is alot easier to pitch when your offense is scoring runs for you. If we get back to the early season offensive production, I do not think pitching will become an issue. Let’s be patient and not trade away our future. We have some of the best young players in the game and a few more on the way.

By David O'Brien

June 28, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

Tyler, why would you trade one of the LF’s, when that arrangement’s working so well. Harris rakes against righties, but has never hit lefties very well. Besides, he’s the backup center fielder. Who’s going to back up center field, or RF, if you trade him?

You’ve got four outfielders, like every team does (you need at least four), and two of them happen to be platooning in left. Absolutely nothing wrong with that. It’s worked quite well.

By Caleb

June 28, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

DOB, have the Braves signed Jason Heyward yet?

By flange1

June 28, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

A-ville Ranger,

The White Sox are going into sell mode. They have 3 players that will be free agents at the end of the year, Dye, Buhrle and Iguchi. They are looking to shed payroll and stock up with young talent.

Dye has not had a great year so far and is injured as we speak.

I just don’t think Willie and Diaz can sustain hteir hitting for the full year, they are not that good!

But they are a major bench upgrade!

By Coach (BRINGING THE WRECKING BALL)

June 28, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

I love Salty’s bat , but the fact that the Braves are being forced to play a player at the major league level while learning a new position (first base) tells me just how difficult it is for the Braves to put a competitive team on the field. The same can be said for Escobar , except for the fact that he can handle the position competently from a defensive standpoint. Yunel is primarily a SS and third baseman. With Andruw in the batting order the Braves need all the offensive help they can get from the other seven guys. Bobby’s platoon system seems to be working , lets just wait and see how it fares when the Dodgers and Padres come calling.

By BamaBrave

June 28, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

What’s up with Smoltz’s shoulder? Is it getting better, or worse? It sends shivers down my spine ever time he has to take a little breather, or stretch it out. I know he’s tough, but all this talk about trades and playoff runs becomes moot if he breaks down. I’m assuming he’ll pitch in the All-Star game…but man I sure wish he could rest it during that off-time.

By BamaBrave

June 28, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

What’s up with Smoltz’s shoulder? Is it getting better, or worse? It sends shivers down my spine every time he has to take a little breather, or stretch it out. I know he’s tough, but all this talk about trades and playoff runs becomes moot if he breaks down. I’m assuming he’ll pitch in the All-Star game…but man I sure wish he could rest it during that off-time.

By NewsGuy

June 28, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

Thrillhouse Sorry about the delay,you know, alternate universes and all that.I think Edgar is a lock.John should be but that 5 run inning last week may have damaged his chances.Same deal with Soriano,if not for a few meaningless brain farts he’d be in.He should be anyway but we’ll have to hope La Russa looks past the era.

By Efrim

June 28, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

DOB

Regarding your 3:50 Post.

Are you OK with our starting rotation??? I guess you don’t want to trade anyone for a starter then. How are we going to acquire a starting pitcher unless we don’t give someone up? How are we going to make the playoffs unless we upgrade our starting rotation???

Please answer these questions asap. You think a team will trade you a #2 starter for a LEFT FIELD PROSPECT??? You said yourself he isn’t a CF. If he isn’t a centerfielder than deal him. Play Escobar at 2nd and move Kelly to Left next year.

I thought getting a starting pitcher was needed for this team to make the playoffs. Guess people forgot that.

By berigan

June 28, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

flange1, Trachel is a typical Leo Mazzone reclamation project….he sucked for the Mets last year, and to do anything with his stuff in the AL is amazing…

By BamaBrave

June 28, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

Yeah DOB, please answer Efrim asap… hahahahahahahahaaaa.. Drop everything, g**dammit! Haaaahahahahaaaaa…

By berigan

June 28, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

KC made a mistake getting rid of Matt Diaz,, but honestly, if the Devil Rays had kept him, he wouldn’t even get a change to play! They are thick, sick with outfielders. Josh Hamilton would still be in the minors most likely if the Reds hadn’t taken a chance with him. Even letting go Dukes, they have too many outfielders….

By HP

June 28, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

Question: Who do you guys think will be NL All-star starting pitcher? Brad Penny, Jake Peavy, or John Smoltz? I hope it is Smoltz because his been pitching for many years.

By OVERLORD

June 28, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Mike M i think all your comments are true, i also think braves must be patient, and i think they will, they r showing it since AJ is still in the everyday lineup and since they r teaching salty play 1b as the season goes by. So i think theyll do the same with pitching, carlyle is doing fine, even better than kyle i´d say. I know he is no #3 pitcher but he is doing the job there, how? im not sure but he is finding the way, and i think they r giving all the time kyle needs, but if he doesnt becomes more consistent i think we will be watching villarreal in a pair of months. Dont get me wrong, we need to do better, much b