Braves

By Armstrong

July 4, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

Wow. Cox said that about Davies? From what has happened to Johnson, unless theyre showcasing Escobar, it doesnt look like Davies will be pitching that much more.

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

I really didn’t want to hear that the Braves weren’t going to get a deal done until closer to July 31st. I was actually hoping for a deal before the break. Oh well. Our offense is just going to have to go insane in July if we are too stay in the race. If we keep running Davies out there every fifth day, we won’t get anything going. Smoltz’s shoulder has to be okay if this team is going to win anything……..

By Chris

July 4, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

I wish Bobby would move Andruw out of the cleanup spot. It’s good to have loyalty, but this is becoming stupid.

By Memorable Fourth of July

July 4, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

Don’t forget to tell George Steinbrenner Happy Birthday today! He won’t be having many more.

On July 4, 1985, the New York Mets defeat the Atlanta Braves, 16-13, in a wild 19-inning affair at Fulton County Stadium. Light-hitting pitcher Rick Camp hits a game-tying home run in the 18th, only to see his team lose. New York’s Keith Hernandez hits for the cycle.

On July 4, 1984, future Hall of Famer Phil Niekro collects his 3,000th career strikeout. Pitching for the New York Yankees, the knuckleballing veteran fans Larry Parrish of the Texas Rangers to reach the milestone.

On July 4, 1983, Dave Righetti of the New York Yankees pitches a no-hitter against the rival Boston Red Sox. Righetti strikes out Wade Boggs to complete the 4-0 masterpiece at Yankee Stadium. Righetti’s teammate, third baseman Bert “Campy” Campaneris, plays in a record 11th no-hitter.

On July 4, 1980, Nolan Ryan of the Houston Astros collects his 3,000th strikeout during an 8-1 loss to the Cincinnati Reds. “The Express” fans Cesar Geronimo, becoming the fourth major league pitcher to reach the milestone.

On July 4, 1976, Philadelphia Phillies catcher Tim McCarver hits an apparent grand slam home run against the Pittsburgh Pirates. When McCarver passes teammate Garry Maddox, the runner at first base, he loses credit for the grand slam. The Phillies still win the game, 10-5.

On July 4, 1939, the New York Yankees retire the uniform #4 of future Hall of Famer Lou Gehrig in emotional ceremonies at Yankee Stadium. For over 40 minutes, current and former Yankee greats, including Hall of Famer Babe Ruth, parade onto the field to honor the “Iron Horse.” Other former Yankee greats, such as pitcher Waite Hoyt, second baseman Tony Lazzeri, and outfielder Bob Meusel, also attend. Yankee manager Joe McCarthy presents Gehrig with a special silver trophy. Gehrig, in one of the most memorable speeches in baseball history, tells the 61,808 in attendance at the Stadium, “I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth.” Gehrig, who is stricken with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, will die from the muscular disease in 1941.

By GermanBravesFan

July 4, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

DOB: can the Braves send Davies back to the minors in case they’ll trade for another starter?

By CASHMERE

July 4, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this

can we get a trade now for some starters?

By Memorable July 4 Posts

July 4, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this

On July 4, 2007 cut and paste hits a new low.

By Heave, Ho, Let Davies Go!

July 4, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

At this point, would anyone, and I mean anyone do as bad as Davies has over such a long period of time. Call up anyone. What does it matter? It can not be worse. Hell, call Mark Redman back up, see if he has figured out many of his problems were due to excessive weight and poor conditioning. Maybe he’s lost 30 pounds and is ready to compete this time. Can’t be any worse than Davies.

By Optimist

July 4, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

Trade Andruw for a starter and another player, if that is possible.

By Richmond Braves- Stringer

July 4, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

Listening to Richmond Braves Pre-game radio show, Reyes is being considered for Saturday Night. Decision in the morning.

By Tomas

July 4, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this

I think it’s time to send Davies back to the minors until he can consistently pitch at a big league level. If JS wants to win this season he will need to improve in two areas Starting Pitching, and hitting. And when I say starting pitching I don’t mean a Mark Redman kind of guy, I mean a Mark Buehrly or Jose Contreras type of pitcher. I think they also need to add another hitter which could level more the lineup (someone that can do the job Andruw is suppose to do Bat like a cleanup hitter). Someone like Adam Dunn for example and that by the way is involved in trade rumors.

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this

Why would they do that? That would waste one of his options. The Braves need to look outside the organization for pitching help this time. If they can’t bring on any payroll then it is going to be kind of tough to bring that starter on.Damn Mike Hampton. Can’t wait for the end of next season when we have a chance to actually sign a free agent……

By Fluff

July 4, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this

A lot of my posts are mere fluff.

By Dave

July 4, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this

The Braves are pitiful. They can’t win at home and they can’t win on the road. They don’t have a pitcher who can get past the fourth or fifth inning with any consistency. Bring back Leo Mazzone and bench A. Jones.

By Ron Roberts

July 4, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this

Not to sound like a ’40s-era cinematic actor, but…

It’s maddening; *maddening I tell ya…

It’s time now to swap Villareal and Davies, role-wise, if we can’t pull off a deal until closer to the deadline. By my count, there are about five more Kyle Davies starts before the trade deadline.

Maybe if I keep saying it, somebody will notice.

Oscar has a 3.94 ERA and yet we’re 4-25 in games he’s pitched in.

In 2006, he started four games, going 1-0 with a 3.50. We were 4-0 in those games.

In Kyle Daviess starts this season, the Braves are 6-9 this season. And it’s rare he can point to lack of offense, either. The Braves have scored an average of 4.75 runs per game in his losses. In only one of his nine losses did he post a quality start.

It’s past-due time for this move, folks. I can’t believe I’m the only one saying it.

By B9

July 4, 2007 7:07 PM | Link to this

The inane posts don’t bother me. I’m benign.

By Tomas

July 4, 2007 7:10 PM | Link to this

Trades: Jarrod Saltalamacchia for Mark Buehrly (or Jose Contreras), and a minor league player.

Scott Thorman and Kelly Johnson for Adam Dunn(with the reds agreeing to pay a big portion of his contract).

By Josh C

July 4, 2007 7:14 PM | Link to this

Kyle’s song

With a steady drizzle falling, Seemed my destiny was calling, On that cool New England day.

And in that place so hallowed, Crazy expectations followed, As I held the Sox at bay.

You see I was just a young lad, Had my good days, but some were bad, Man that day was good.

But now some time has passed, And Destiny’s kicked my a$s, As I should have known it would!

Oh can you take me back to…

Boston!

Oh the memory’s still new, And there have been so few Good memories to last.

Boston!

Where the world was in my pocket My right arm felt like a rocket Oh so many days have passed…

Boston!

Take me back to…

Boston…

By Cluster

July 4, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

I group my posts like this using various names. You think others are blogging with me but it’s only me blogging with myself. I am special.

By Oscar Villareal

July 4, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, could you please talk to Pete Orr and have Pete pass the compromising photos passed onto him by Lockhart on to me for the betterment of the team? I just can’t seem to get my hands on those pictures. I am starting to wonder if Bobby has pictures of me in compromising positions because he won’t properly utilize me. Those darn damning pictures are the keys to everything.

By TennesseePaul

July 4, 2007 7:21 PM | Link to this

Rockit from the crypt DOB. Thanks for the new blog. Enjoy the fire works tonight. If the wind kicks up, the “Think Blue” sign could end up a thing of the past.

GO BRAVES

By Yars

July 4, 2007 7:24 PM | Link to this

Man, we’ve had so many opportunities to catch the Mets the last 5 weeks. Bobby & Schuerholz should know by now what they will likely get out of Davies, Carlyle, James, & the rest of the AAAA starting pitchers by now. (Lerew, Cormier, Villarreal, ect…) They have nothing to lose by perhaps bringing up Jo Jo Reyes or Matt Harrison or whatever pitcher is hot at Richmond & Mississippi right now. We just need to start winning games. The season’s getting shorter by the day now. Before you know it, it’ll be August, then Sept & that’s it. No more regular season baseball. Quit thinking it’s still early. I truly believe we still have a realistic chance at either wining the NL East, or the Wildcard. I’m not too worried about other NL wildcard teams like the Cubs, D’Backs, either Dodgers or Padres, even the Phillies. I predict they will all fade off pretty soon. I just can’t see pitchers like James, Davies, Carlyle, & Cormier pitching any better a month from now. We definitely have plenty of trade bait. Players such as Yunel, Salty, possibly Lillibridge, and some of the other Richmond prospects are expendable. There isn’t any room for them in Atlanta. Both Yunel & Salty should be playing everyday, but should players like Kelly Johnson & Thorman have to suffer for it? KJ & Thor are still young & are capable of turning into solid MLB players. They should be playing everyday, just like Yunel & Salty should be. Now Playing: Reeling In The Years by Steely Dan.

By Josh C

July 4, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this

DOB

Just curious,

I’m sure the Braves aren’t and wouldn’t consider this, but I’ve mentioned a couple of times trading Edgar for pitching in lieu of prospects. My philosophy is that there are some teams in contention that have pitching but need run production (SD, OAK, CWS). I would imagine Edgar would be one of the top sticks available, especially with Boston eating so much. Seems a bit (not exactly) like the Giles situation where the Braves “wanted” to keep him but felt the $5 mil would be better spent elsewhere since they had other options. Doesn’t Escobar present the same dilemma? As good as Edgar is (I LOVE having the guy on our team) I’d rather lose him, at his age and salary, than Escobar. I’d love to hear your opinion on the matter, as well as the other denizens…

By Joe

July 4, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

trade Escobar and Davies for a very good starter then trade Salty for Adam Dunn

By Joe

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

DOB any good trade rumors?????

By Bill

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

It would be crazy to trade Salty for Buherle. He’s going elsewhere next season. It’s time to pack it in and trade all the deadwood and high salaries. Trade Wickman,Hudson and Renteria and any in pen except Soriano.

By Bonefish

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

Bobby needs to hang it up.

By None But The Brave

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

DOB any good trade rumors?????

certainly not from most of the bloggers on here!

By berigan

July 4, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

Efrim, Really not trying to sound harsh about this, but who cares about options at this point??? Winning is nice and all, but we got to worry about his options. Sigh… We all know what Kyle Davies did when he first came up, why not take a chance with Jo Jo Reyes??? It wouldn’t be like Joey Divine being given an excellent chance to fail with coming in to a game with the bases loaded and all that. This would be starting. Give him a shot. Doesn’t do well, you say kid, we rushed ya, you will be great, you know have a taste of the big show, and you will be back soon. See ya next spring. I want to win, not worry about options.

By None But the Boor

July 4, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

DOB do you like me?

certainly none of the bloggers do!

By Joe

July 4, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

what about Escobar, Davies and Thorman to Pitt. for Zack Duke and Laroche

By h_charles

July 4, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this

The sadest part of the Davies debacle is that he will likely stay in the rotation. That is a flat out indictment of the Braves farm system. As good as this organization is developing position players, they have been flat out awful developing starting pitchers.

Anyone guess the last time the Braves featuered a 15 game winner from our farm sytem?
I think you have to go all the way back to Avery, if not further. That is very, very bad. Where in the heck are our young guns? An organization once known for developing staters is now one of the worst in the NL. Davies is a reflection of that. Despite the fact that he is statistically the worst starter in the NL, we flat out have nobody better to give a shot to. Sad.

By Steve

July 4, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

i agree Edgar is the logical choice to trade, dispite the fact that he is having a allstar year. Escobar is obviously quite talented. This would free up the salary to help get a strong starter who we can keep.

By None But The Brave

July 4, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Alright, you win, you little pest. Have fun being your creepy little self. Vamanos.

By beachcomber

July 4, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

In last night’s otherwise frustrating game, the TBS camra crew caught a shot of our future - it was Escobar and Salty chatting right after Escobar had made that incredible play by second base to steal a hit and save a run. Please JS, be absolutely overwhelmed before you deal either of those two studs.

Just finished reading the previous blog and that post from “truth be told” or whatever was laughable.

By berigan

July 4, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts has mentioned it several times, and you know what, he is quite right! As he mentioned, Villareal has pitched in 4 wins, and 25 losses!!!! Anyone can do mop up duty. We are not coming back in the games he is pitching in, so his games are basically wasted. I don’t know why Bobby is so dead set against trying him as a starter!!!

By Hammer

July 4, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

DOB - You are being off the charts optimistic on Davies. He is not very good and likely will not get much better with this organization.

Best bet is to send him down to AAA and hope he recovers enough to trade him in a package deal later in the season or in the offseason. Time to get the fork out for him.

On that note this team needs two starters (not one) if they expect to make it to the playoffs.

I don’t think a rotation that includes a breaking down Smoltz (don’t tell us what he has done so far it has little bearing on where he is physically today and what he can accomplish unless he is DL’d/used sparingly)an inconsistent Hudson/James and Buddy will get it done.

JS needs a coming to Jesus meeting with his staff and Bobby re: what to do with this team this year.

I will not even get into the obvious stuff re: moveing AJ to the 7 hole for the season, jettisoning Woodward & Orr, giving Yates a break, moving Wickman to the 8th inning role etc.

This team is a work in progress at best with a terrible rotation in terms of serious playoff hopes. The reality is we have likely seen the best from our starters in the 1H. They have mileage on them now, injuries are and will pop up and the pen is looking spent which will put more pressure on the few good starters we have left.

We need two innings eating starters, move Buddy to the pen, Davies to AAA and James to the 5 hole.

By All Spin Zone

July 4, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

I have long been a critic of how bold and insulting some responses to suggestions on this blog appear. Someone makes a suggestion and someone else posts a reply and all but calls the initial poster a ill-bred donkey-mating retard.

With that in mind, I’ll try to temper my own post now.

Adam Dunn? Whats the facination with Adam Dunn? He”s another all or nothing hitter. He strikes out at a maddening clip. He hits many meaningless HR’s. If Andruw can drive you nuts with his efforts in clutch situations this year, then Dunn would put you on prozac and oxycontin at the same time.

Dunn is Andruw without the defense. He’s going to hit a lot of homers, but don’t count on him to hit the tater that wins the game for you. He’s mad-crazy streaky.

By greenvegas

July 4, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

with our salary constraints, we can not AFFORD to trade away young, inexpensive talent like escobar and salty. We need to try to trade away some older productive players like renteria, chipper and andruw(if either would waive the no-trade clause) for YOUNG starting pitching. ATL needs to face the facts that this team can not win big the way it currently is constructed. We need to possibly take a step back, gather some young stud pitchers for our veteran talent, and set ourselves up for a long, productive run based on young pitching and the development of our young position players. We should have used this strategy last year and traded A jones but we do not want to be honest about where our organization is right now. Build for the future NOW so there will be a future to have. It is the only way to do with our budget contraints.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

Man, where would we be if Hampton was not injured.

By N8

July 4, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

Lew

On the other blog, you said:

“You can’t dissect or ridicule music, because it’s entertainment, but doing it to every Braves game is fine. I guess that’s not entertainment, too.”

Of course it’s entertainment. But their are statistics, that “back up” who is good, and who is not. Teams have either Wins or Losses to determine whether or not they are a good team.

We can talk all day long about us being the “better team” than some of the teams that beat us in the post-seasons of years past. But ultimately we didn’t win, so the others were “better” over that extended period of time.

The music and movie industry has “statistics” too. Tickets sold. Albums sold. Merchandise sold.

But are we to believe that the New Kids on the Block are one of the greatest artists of all time, because the sold a lot?

If sports were purely for “entertainment” as you put it. Vegas wouldn’t have lines on it. The newspapers would say what happened in the games. Leaderboards would not be a factor. Players contracts wouldn’t escalate based on who is “better”. Not to mention, they wouldn’t even keep score or determine who won, not much different than T-Ball.

Don’t lump sports into the same “entertainment” category as music and the movies. It’s NOT close.

Or do you look at the box office “stats” every week online, rooting for your favorite movie to be the big “winner” at the gate that week? Then blog about how next week they can improve upon their ticket sales. Followed by blogging about how the writers, directors, producers and should make a “trade” for a different actor for their next “season” (project)? Do you “root” for a movie that’s coming out, that you like, to win the oscar that year, and feel dissapointment, when it doesn’t?

Didn’t think so. That’s because sports are a MUCH different form of “entertainment”. PERIOD.

:-)

By Coach (BRINGING THE WRECKING BALL)

July 4, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

July 4th , 1985…..Dude , I was there. The baseball game from hell. Two rain delays. Six hours of baseball including the rain and we lost in 19 innings , Rick Camp I hate you. Then the Braves brass decided to set off the fireworks anyway a little after 3 a.m in the morning. Not that the few thousand fans left in Fulton County Stadium didn’t appreciate the gesture( I did ). The rest of the city apparently thought world war three had started and overloaded the 911 system. I crashed in the back seat of my car and a very nice attendant woke me up a few hours later. It was by far the most memorable Braves game Ive ever seen. Hope everybody is enjoying the holiday ! Happy 231st America ! Fireworks at dusk tonight , gonna be right down by the mighty red river , parked on a blanket with 65,000 of my closest friends and family.

By All Spin Zone

July 4, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

One more thing about Dunn, see what he’s making? It’s like double digit millions of dollars per.

There are some guys whose numbers just don’t tell the story. A guy can be hitting .285 with 12 homers and 35 Rbi at this point in the season and you see he’s in the middle of every rally the team gets going, win or lose. That’s the player we need to find next season, not some guy who has inflated numbers that are compiled early in games or late in games that have already been decided. I also hate it when a guys goes 22 for 50 then 5 for 50. Streaky guys can carry a team but they can also kill a team because everyone is always waiting for him to go on a streak when he’s sucking. Lot’s of games can be lost while waiting on the superstar to show up.

By GermanBravesFan

July 4, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this

greenvegas… what are you talking about? We do have good young starting pitchers in the minors AND we have some young talented position players. The only reason why we are in the hole we are in is because Mike Hampton got hurt! The depth at starting pitching would be much better with him in there. Chipper Jones and John Smoltz ARE the Atlanta Braves and have earned to finish their careers here! In an age where loyalty doesn’t mean much anymore, we should be greatful to have these guys as Atlanta Braves.

I think it’s absurd to call for “rebuilding” when we have sufficient talent in the minor leagues!

By dadgum

July 4, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Just for grins….somebody try to find an MLB stat that ever showed anyone batting cleanup while consistently below .200. Andruw might be the first…seriously.

Not sure where the music bloggers from the prior blog left it but somebody mentioned The Doors were no longer relevant. huh? So you have had a movie, a special, and countless bands cover your songs since 2001 but you aren’t relevant. OK , yeah I get it. Don’t even get me started on Zep. Ya’ll think about. Come to think of it why am I on this fine blog at 8:30 on the 4th. See you losers later. Just kidding.

By Braves20

July 4, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Just caught up with the blog. Read someone’s calculation that, barring a quick trade (unlikely according to David), we have five more Davies starts before the trading deadline

To borrow (steal) a line from another frequent blogger - “Oh the humanity!”

By brian

July 4, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

A lot of people are mentioning Adam Dunn for the Braves. I just don’t see how that helps the Braves. The Braves do not need another strikeout king. Yes he hits a lot of homeruns, but he strikes out as much or more than Andruw and hits for a low average. Where would you put him? LF - Over Harris/Diaz - no way. At 1B? No thanks, I would rather see Salty play everyday. Besides Dunn would cost us Salty or Escobar plus Reyes or Harrison.

No thank you for Dunn.

By All Spin Zone

July 4, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

The key to making any trade is finding a compatible trading partner. They need what you have and you need what they have.

There seems to be an abundance of good young shortstops in baseball today. If you want to trade Renteria, the pool of compatible trade partners who have what you need and need a shortstop themselves is probably very small. I just don’t see Edgar as someone who the Braves will be moving. He’s relatively cheap and the teams MVP to this point. (in my opinion) The down side is his arm isn’t strong and his range is diminishing as he ages.

By David O'Brien

July 4, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN: Smoltz will miss his next start Saturday, skip the All-Star Game, and will fly back to Atlanta tomorrow to have his shoulder checked.

But he’s still confident it’s only inflammation and the plan is to avoid the DL and start the fifth game after the All-Star break, unless doctors determine he needs more rest.

Gotta write something now for online and paper.

By Hotspur

July 4, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

DOB -

As your friendly neighborhood transplanted Atlantan living in LA for the last 13 years, let me add to comments about Angelenos’ carping about 90-degree weather:

It’s not the heat, it’s the stupidity.

BTW, if you haven’t yet made your way to Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles, it’s a must-visit before you leave. Bring your nitro pills.

By Coach (BRINGING THE WRECKING BALL)

July 4, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

Greenvegas is on to an idea that has merit. Unfortunately , it just won’t happen. It’s not the management style of John Schuerholz. JS builds teams that are competitive year to year , he won’t sacrifice the second half of this season for 2008 and beyond. Ya’ll know me , I would blow this team to hell and back , rebuild with youth , athleticism and talent. But , like I said before , the current Braves brain trust won’t take that leap. This franchise is run with profit in mind , not wins and losses.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 4, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

journalist is in from the backyard in time for the game. everything today was very satisfactory. still, the watermelon could have been better. never can tell about a watermelon until taking the first bite. this watermelon was okay but not great. much like the atlanta braves season so far (whew! transition). and what surprises will bobby have with tonight’s lineup? let’s hope no canadians play on independence day.

By N8

July 4, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

Smoltz missing more starts, along with Davies MAKING more starts, spells doom for this team.

Period.

We cannot and will not, win consistantly without Smoltz going (and pitching deep into games), every 5 days, and with Davies pitching every 5 days.

No sane person can argue against that argument.

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

N8,

I don’t even think KC, Lew or Chase could argue against that.

By Serena's bee-hind

July 4, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this

Well, did you see it? Has to be the largest buttocks ever in professional sports. Has to be. Sweet Jeebus.

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

Say Smoltz had an injury that cost him the rest of the season, it would definetly be time to sell shop. Although, I am not sure who we could sell off. Renteria would basically be the only one, and that is pretty pointless.

By All Spin Zone

July 4, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Glad that Chipper’s and Smoltz’ little “man up” exercise didn’t cause any foggy headed false bravado. The Braves have Zero chance without Smoltz the rest of the year. I would rather he miss a start or two now and get closer to the real Smoltz rather than doing his Cecil Upshaw impression. He looks so desperate out there, I’ve been expecting the knuckleball to reappear as well.

By Josh C

July 4, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

All Spin, Edgar could play third. San Diego’s 3b and ss are both below .240. They are leading the west by one game, leading the NL in ERA, and go 5 deep with sub-4.00 starters (Wells may be 4.3). My suggestion was Renteria for Maddux, who is at 3.6 and could probably help some of our soft-tossers learn the ropes. He’d then be gone next year, meaning we freed Edgar’s $6m for next year. But, hey, what do I know.

Of course, if they’d look at Diaz or KJ and maybe a prospect for the Germano kid that might be worthwhile too.

By Brainstormer

July 4, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

Crazy idea time:

As great as Edgar is, he is declining defensively with his range and arm at shortstop. How about moving him to left or center next year when Druw leaves? Considering our roster and prospects, it may make sense. You get to keep his solid bat in the lineup - his bat seems to get better and better and more consistent every year. This would be my possible brainstorm roster next year:

C - McCann; 1B - Salty; 2B - KJ; SS - Escobar; 3B - Chipper; LF - Edgar; CF - Willie; RF - Frenchy; Bench: Pena, Aybar, Lillibridge, Brandon Jones, Diaz

Lineup: 1. Willie, CF; 2. KJ, 2B; 3. Edgar; 4. Chipper, 3B; 5. McCann, C; 6. Frenchy, RF; 7. Salty, 1B; 8. Escobar, SS

By scott

July 4, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

Please, don’t let Smoltz miss too much time. We are screwed without him taking the ball every fifth day.

By Cornholio

July 4, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

We can’t count on Smoltzie much longer. The bullpen is on the verge of collapse due to overuse. The starting pitching sucks.

How come the Braves’ system is not producing quality starting pitchers?

With Andruw gone in 2008, lets start taking offers on Hudson & Renteria, our most marketable players. Trade them while they are at their peak value for as many top pitching prospects as possible.

With the salaries of Andruw, Huddy & Edgar gone, there should be a ton of money to spend on bring some quality starting pitchers to Atlanta. I’d trade Chipper but who’d want his salary and oft-injured history? He’d veto any trade.

Here’s my 2008 Braves’ lineup:

CF: Willie Harris 2B: Kelly Johnson 3B: Chipper Jones C: Brian McCann RF: Jeff Francoeur SS: Yunel Escobar 1B: Jarrod Saltalamacchia LF: Brandon Jones

This is a quality lineup with tons of potential, and quite inexpensive, allowing money to upgrade the pitching staff.

Bobby Cox would screw it up with a bullsh*t platoon system. If it were my team he’d be gone.

Enough of the crazy talk of trading Escobar & Salty for some washed up pitchers. This team is not a post-season contender.

By JJMB

July 4, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

I guess Smoltz can shutup about Chipper missing games now.

By All Spin Zone

July 4, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

Josh C.

I hadn’t considered Edgar at 3rd. That might be a possibility for SD or another team for that matter. On the other hand, I don’t see moving the most consistent offensive player on an inconsistent offensive team.

As for Maddux, I just don’t want to move anyone, repeat anyone, for a rent-a-player….but that’s just me.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

I miss Atlanta…..can’t watch games…..reduced to listen on on MLB.com and watching game day which is pretty impressive.

Good start so far

By Tomas

July 4, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

Okay ignorants(who think Adam Dunn is average),

Adam Dunn is an awesome, awesome power hitter, he can easily hit 60 hr in a season, and he is on the block at fairly reasonable price at this market. He can adjust to first base, if the braves asked him to do so, and averages 40 hr or more per season. He is not just another hitter he is one of the premier hitters in the game today. This season so far he is hitting 260, with 23HR, and 59 RBI’s, tell me please, who in the Braves has as much HR. But first of all, the Braves need to focus on getting a high quality pitcher like Buehrly, or Contreras, then dream about Dunn.

By N8

July 4, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this

What’s the over/under on how many innings Chuck goes tonight?

I’m going with 5.1 IP on 107 pitches.

By Ron

July 4, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

All Spin Zone Dude what about trading Renteria to the A’s in the offseason for Joe Blanton, or trade Renteria to the Giants for Noah Lowry!!! And if we cant get a good Starter for him trade him for a Good Young CF!!! The A’s would be a perfect match for us in the offseason, especially when they are about fed up with Crosby!!!

By brian

July 4, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

the Braves need to put John Smoltz on the DL to free up a roster spot for the next 2 weeks.

To fill that spot they should either recall Devine and place Villareal in the rotation or recall Jo-Jo Reyes or Harrison or Dan Smith and give them a 2 start trial (if they do well then Davies to Richmond when Smoltz returns). If one of the young starters do not work out then the Braves can make the trade at the trade deadline. They may have someone in house to solidify the rotation. I will not state that they cannot do worse than Davies has recently

By N8

July 4, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

Anybody else find it ironic that 2 pitchers in the last few weeks, have wound up on the DL with “shoulder inflammation” the day after getting hammered by us?

I’m sure if our team doctors looked “hard enough”, they could find some inflamation in Davies’ shoulder, couldn’t they?

By journalist jimmy smith

July 4, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

andruw. 2 lob.

By Todd A

July 4, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

Jones Boys= rally killers

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

wow.

By N8

July 4, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

What a shocker. Andruw FAILS to make contact, much less get the runner in from 3rd with less than 2 outs.

I’m beginning to think that Robert is close with his comparing Bobby to a donkey. Because about the only thing more stubborn than Bobby is a frickin’ mule.

Nice job in the 1st inning guys.

I’m actually getting to the point, where I’m hoping for Andruw to get hurt (and that’s pretty sad, if you ask me), because that is the ONLY way he’s coming out of this lineup.

If Bobby Cox was the manager of the Yankees, Bernie Williams would still be playing CF and batting clean-up for them. Actually scratch that….Dave Winfield would be batting cleanup for them.

By Livin' Large

July 4, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

Hey Joe Simpson (company man)

Please stop telling us every game how Andruw is swinging the bat batter.

He’s not.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

if the first batter is any indication C. James is locating his pitches well.

By chopper

July 4, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

For the love of all that’s holy Bobby, get the rally killer out of the four hole. How many future games is this going to cost us!@!

By Ron

July 4, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

Tomas No doubt Dunn can hit homers, hell he could probably hit 70 homers in a season, real strong dude!!! But He strikes out alot and I think he holds the record for most strikeouts in a season!!! Personally I would rather play Salty at first full time next year, because I think he can hit 25-30 homers and a .300 average!!! Dunn makes soooo much money and I would rather spend that money on a Starting Pitcher!!!

By N8

July 4, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

Who would rather have Juan Pierre and his “sally” arm in CF, then Andruw at this point?

I would take him any day of the week, and twice on Sundays right now.

Hell, I’d take 83 year old “I can’t fit into this clubhouse” Kenny Lofton, over Andruw right now. In a frickin’ heartbeat.

By JJMB

July 4, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

Bozo Cox bats Andruw 4th, and Saltalamacchia 8th. I guess I should just be happy Yunel and Salty are in the friggin game. FADITA, I’ll be glad when Cox is gone.

By Brainstormer

July 4, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

If Bobby Cox was the manager of the Yankees, Bernie Williams would still be playing CF and batting clean-up for them. Actually scratch that….Dave Winfield would be batting cleanup for them.

Scratch that….. He would still be penciling in Thurman Munson at catcher….

By Ron

July 4, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

N8 the sad thing about it is I believe that if JS did not trade Langy, BC would still be starting Langy in LF vs. Righties!!! Now that is sad!!!

By N8

July 4, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

Earlier I predicted the following for Chuck tonight:

“I’m going with 5.1 IP on 107 pitches.”

Let’s see. After 1 IP, he’s thrown 18 pitches. That would translate to about 96 pitches after 5.1 IP. I guess I was a little off. :-)

By Brainstormer

July 4, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

Did Bobby talk to Grady this afternoon and say that Betemit kid is killing us he is so hot against us, do what I do, break his momentum and bench him tonight? Perhaps. More likely, he is garbage against lefties, so he is not playing tonight.

By brian

July 4, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

I have no problem with Bobby starting Andruw, but I have a big problem with Bobby keeping Andruw in the cleanup spot while he is slumping. Andruw needs to hit 8th until he comes out of this slump

By N8

July 4, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

In the mean time, Hendrickson BREEZEZ through the 2nd inning on 9 pitches (5 of witch, were seen by Salty).

How come our pitchers can’t do that?

By Tom

July 4, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

i honestly expected this from Smoltz. I have been watching his discomfort growing since the weird “tweek” he had a couple of weeks ago. Smoltz has known as well as Bobby that he is not 100% thus the early exits.
This is going to be the time JS makes it or breaks it for this team. He needs to pull out a deal that will make up for this loss. Braves are now three pitchers down from expectations.

If Kelly,Yunel, Salty and Willie all deserve to paly every day then there is no reason to keep all four. One, probably two are expendable.

I would be happy for a hudson type trade. As long as the payroll doesn’t go down then they can afford a #1.

By Ron

July 4, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

And some of yall think our problems is JUST PITCHING!!! LOL!!! Pitching is just one problem out of alot of problems!!!

By Tomas

July 4, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

Ron,

I understand, I mean I just said Dunn sarcastically, first of all they need to get a starting pitcher, but to get that starting pitcher they’ll may have to trade Salty. And I am a big fan of Salty I think he is and will improve to be one of the premier hitters of this generations, if he is not traded, Kelly Johnson, Scott Thorman or Yunel Escobar would be.

By Wolfpack Man

July 4, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

I love Bobby, but how much longer can you leave Andruw in the 4 hole. I

I can understand keeping him in the lineup, but why not drop him to 6 or 7 in the order. He is absolutely killing this team right now (ie. 1st inning K).

By Daybed Wagmoe

July 4, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

DOB - so can tony larussa get another pitcher (or any position player) to take smoltz’s place on the all-star team roster?

By Daybed Wagmoe

July 4, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

DOB - so can tony larussa get another pitcher (or any position player) to take smoltz’s place on the all-star team roster?

By Daybed Wagmoe

July 4, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

DOB - so can tony larussa get another pitcher (or any position player) to take smoltz’s place on the all-star team roster?

By geauxbraves2000

July 4, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

BC isn’t the only one p—-sed. I’ve held back, trying to keep a positive attitude, but rain has canceled the fireworks show here and made my little girl cry, so since I can’t yell at God, this stinking team is going to feel my wrath.

Get you heads out of your asses Braves and play baseball like you are capable of. BC, stop being a player’s manager and stop giving a crap about hurting feelings. Start fining those who don’t hustle, get in their faces if they fail to at least make a productive and, AND MAN TAKE AJ OUT OF CLEANUP, HE IS HURTING THIS TEAM BATTING THERE, ARE YOU BLIND MAN OR ARE YOU GOING SENILE!!! WHAT COULD POSSIBLE BE GOING THROUGH THAT BRAIN OF YOURS!! TAKE SOME FAN ADVICE FOR ONCE WOULD YOU. YOU MAY MANAGE TO WIN, BUT WE PAY TO SEE YOU WIN, NOT MAKE DECISIONS OVER AND OVER AGAIN THAT SIMPLY ARE NOT WORKING!! AJ IS NOT PRODUCING OFFENSIVELY, IGNORING IT AIN’T MAKING IT GO AWAY, AND OBVIOUSLY KEEPING HIM THERE AIN’T WORKING EITHER!

AARRRRGGGH!!!!!!!!!!!

Okay, I’m sorry. It’s just a ball club, just a ball game. Let’s get em Braves, let’s take a winning streak into the AS game.

Geaux Braves!!

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this

sadder and a bit wiser….scully is amazing

By geauxbraves2000

July 4, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

In the mean time, Hendrickson BREEZEZ through the 2nd inning on 9 pitches (5 of witch, were seen by Salty). How come our pitchers can’t do that?

Because N8, our pitchers pretty much suck.

By N8

July 4, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

Now he walks a guy that’s 6 feet 10 inches tall!!!!

How big of a strike zone do you need?

Chuck James is a frickin joke.

With the bases loaded and 2 outs, he’s at 38 pitches, and counting……

By berigan

July 4, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

n8, I think you were off with the 107 pitches in 5 innings. More like 4 innings…if he lasts that long.

By Bob, Journalist

July 4, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

Lonely Are the Braves

Happy Holiday!

How we are perceived is indeed important but I seriously don’t consider my 11;57 to be either pompous or a pontification.

We can only speak for our own behavior and while I don’t think my comments need defending, I admit to being surprised at the tone of David O’B’s response so perhaps some clarification may indeed be in order.

I honestly think that Brian’s history suggests that it’s reasonable for us reserve judgment on his offensive credentials. That doesn’t mean I don’t like him or want him to do well … I hope that he does.

In spite of the comments of others regarding his weight and eating habits, I think he has a solid work ethic.

My statements that I know little about the catcher’s game calling role and defensive skills are true … I don’t and to otherwise suggest would have been wrong.

Hopefully, my comments concerning the passed balls and his defense against base stealing attempts weren’t considered pompous posits as indeed they weren’t even intended as opinions … just my perception of what I have observed as a fan watching the games.

If one is prejudiced relative to my comments and assumes them to be negative toward Brian McCann, then I suppose that it might be understandable for them to conclude that my deferring to the judgment of others regarding his handling of young pitchers and his All Star selection were somehow negative in nature.

However, it’s my common practice to so defer which I myself don’t feel qualified to reach a conclusion and in this instance, both were directionally positive … that is, he’s said to be good and he wouldn’t have been selected if he weren’t held in high regard by those who are qualified to make such judgments.

The motivation and timing, relative to the long term contract, does indeed remain a mystery to me. I’m sure that the Braves do indeed like Brian McCann … we all do … and that it wasn’t made in order to facilitate a future trade … methinks that would be inane. If anything I have ever said suggests that then those comments were poorly expressed.

Having noted my ignorance on the impact of existing contracts on trades, I simply stated what I believe to be true … also not said but methinks obviously true, is that locking Brian into a long term contract was agreeable to both parties.

My impression is that David strongly disagrees with what I said regarding impact of that contract on possible trade situations.

Obviously, if Brian becomes damaged goods or doesn’t remain on a reasonable schedule relative to realizing expectations, such a contract would become a significant inhibitor but if the value of the package is viewed as favorable to the Braves, then I would think it would be a trade facilitator since it has a quantifiable value and removes some degree of uncertainty for the ones considering the viability of obtaining McCann … should that become an objective for the Braves.

I suppose that, in some context, it is fortunate for the Braves and Brian McCann that my knowledge of Brian and his future with the Braves is not pertinent.

Is that to suggest that, in the same context, it would be unfortunate for them if my lack of knowledge were pertinent?

I’m not sure I understand that, but I suppose it isn’t pertinent for otherwise David O’B would not have so said … methinks it does however beg the the question as to the object and context of the pertinence, if it isn’t impertinent to so ask.

Because, that was the primary purpose of the post … to get more information and better, more informed opinion about Brian … how else are we to reach rational conclusions? I consider that to be pertinent.

Bobby Cox is indeed wise, don’t you think?

By N8

July 4, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

Hey Lew,

Pete just said on radio, that he was talking to Yates earlier today and he said that HIS shoulder has been getting tender as of late from so much work.

Do you STILL thing that the 3-5 spots in the rotation, NOT giving us many IP, isn’t gonna effect the bullpen in August and September?

I mean, they ARE still “professionals”, aren’t they?

Here is my suggestion for the rotation/bullpen/bench.

Since Orr and Woodward are technically WORTHLESS to any team that plays above AA ball, and we OBVIOUSLY don’t have “better” options for the rotation in our minor leagues (I assume this, because it is the ONLY logical explanation for a guy like Davies to still be up here).

Why not send Woodward AND Orr down to Richmond. Call up Pena to be the “uber-utility” guy. Then call up another pitcher that has been starting in the minors, so that when Chuck only lasts 5 innings, and Davies is thoroughly hammered before the 3rd inning is done, we’ve got 13 (or even 14) arms on the staff to “burn up” the blowout game innings, instead of guys like Yates and Oscar….you know, guys that we might actually NEED in the 2nd half of the season.

By Brainstormer

July 4, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

Why doesn’t Scully do national games anymore? Is that Buckner play so memorable without the sound of his voice calling that blunder?

By Nelly

July 4, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this

I don’t want to be a negative Nelly but if Smoltz has serious damage in the shoulder,might his career be over ?

By journalist jimmy smith

July 4, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this

oh, the humanity! what did journalist bob say?

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this

Chuck James is a 4th starter. How can anyone debate that he is a #3.

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

Tommy Hanson’s debut for Myrtle Beach tonight:

5 innings, 4 hits 1 Earned run, 3 BB 8K’s

The kid is going to be good.

Kala hit another home run tonight and Elvis went 2 for 3 with a walk.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this

had no idea AJ struck out that many times…..85 times thus far….wow.

By Hey Bob

July 4, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this

Just shut up!

By Tom

July 4, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

In spring training James was the #4 maybe #5 due to Cormier’s success. The wheels have been falling off since.

By N8

July 4, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

The Braves saw 16 pitches in the top of the 4th. The “took” 4 of them.

What a display of patience.

By ijonathan

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

Good to see that Andruw still feels relaxed enough for some freestyling in the outfield. Probably because he knows he could strike out the next 30 times up and would still be penciled in the cleanup spot.

By Bob, Journalist

July 4, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, other than a “which” that should have been a “when” … I thought that it was reasonably clear.

I had written something earlier that was apparently misunderstood and I was hoping to clarify … but then I guess it’s not very pertinent; especially on the 4th of July.

Speaking of pertinent … the sousemeat didn’t meet expectations … but the puddin’ and cheesy potatoes were real good … how were the melon and BBQ?!

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

Holy rusted metal Batman, Chuck may just be able to give us 6 innings tonight!!!!!!

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

66 pitches thru 4 I think he goes into the sixth.

By Lew

July 4, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

Efrim-What was it you were telling me yesterday when I said the Mets’ pitching was falling apart? They gave up 11 runs last night and it’s already 12-4 Colorado in the 5th tonight. El Duque gave up 6 in four and Mota has given up 6.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

Mets getting pounded…..we win tonight….we gain a game even though we lose 2 out of three.

By Ron

July 4, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

I cant believe the Mets might lose 3 to the Rockies!! WOW!!! We should have won Monday and Tuesdays games against the Dodgers!!! How many games are we gonna waste?

By Brainstormer

July 4, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

In 35 starts in the majors, James has a 4.00 ERA with 200 IP.

By Lew

July 4, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

Nathan-As usual, you can’t get things straight, can you. When I said what I did, it was in response to 21/3 IP by the bullpen, after an off day in a week that they had not pitched much. It seems to me that since then, Buddy Carlyle was only able to go 3 because of a long rain delay, necessitating 6 relief innings and last night Davies went only 2, necessitating another 7. Big difference. Yeah, now they’re overused, but they weren’t when I made my comments. Pull your head out, Dude.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

NO way trade escobar……we may have a true superstar

By N8

July 4, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

Well I hope Renteria knocks in the runs, because Chipper and Andruw surely aren’t gonna do it.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 4, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

journalist bob has a point. now, yunel escobar is proof positive that the braves manager is not a superior judge of talent. how did escobar not make this team out of camp? and will andruw leave runners on base again? or will someone bring them in first?

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

Lew, say what you will man. Lets see it over the long haul. Perez is going to make his next start right after the break.

By Brainstormer

July 4, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

Front page of ESPN RIGHT NOW is killing Druw;

Here’s Crasnick’s article:

Andruw Jones, Braves (.201 batting average; fifth in the majors with 83 strikeouts) 1 If Alfonso Soriano could command eight years and $136 million and Vernon Wells received $126 million over seven years, Scott Boras had to be looking at a Manny Ramirez-like, $160 million windfall for Jones. Now that the season is half over and Jones has a lower OPS than Brad Ausmus and Coco Crisp, it’s time to scratch that thought.

Jones has been swinging at fastballs in his eyes, chasing breaking balls in the dirt and trying to pull pitches that he should be driving up the middle or the opposite way. His 47 RBIs are largely a reflection of Edgar Renteria and Chipper Jones being on base so often in front of him. He’s hitting .210 with runners in scoring position.

“He’s been so good for so long; he’s never had to make adjustments at the plate,” said a National League personnel man. “Couple that with all the pressure that goes into a walk year. And he’s getting older, so there have been a lot of changes to that body. I think it’s a lot of bad things coming together at once.”

Jones has an emotional attachment to Atlanta, and Braves fans fondly recall his end-run on Boras to sign a six-year, $75 million contract in 2001. But times have changed, and Atlanta management is too squeezed financially to make another huge commitment.

So where does he go? The Yankees are sure to be mentioned, regardless of their level of interest. And Nationals president Stan Kasten, formerly with Atlanta, might be interested in bringing Jones to Washington in conjunction with the Nationals’ move to a new park.

If Jones doesn’t pick up the pace, he might have to consider signing a one-year deal to re-establish his market value. Either that, or Boras will have to pull something magical out of his hat.

“Andruw was primed for Boras to ask for nine years. Now, who knows?” said an AL front office man. “Scott will propose a one-year deal with a five-year option or something like that. He’ll come up with something creative.”

Boras, reached by phone Wednesday, said he doesn’t expect Jones’ difficult start to have a major impact on teams’ level of interest this winter.

“Every one of my major clients — whether it’s a pitcher or a position player — has gone through times like this,” Boras said. “A-Rod went through it last year. Andruw Jones has done too much for too long and he’s too complete a player. You have to look at this over a broad spectrum rather than six or eight weeks.”

By Lew

July 4, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

Way to go Chipper. Maybe we can gain a game on the Mets tonight.

By N8

July 4, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

As Frank Barone would say…..HOLY CRAP!

A basehit with RISP for Chipper.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

atta boy CJ

By jason

July 4, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

thank you hoss….

Grady Little is a lame manager. how do you not walk Andruw in that spot.

By parks

July 4, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

Well I hope Renteria knocks in the runs, because Chipper and Andruw surely aren’t gonna do it.

more comedy from N8

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

Lew,

You should start worrying about the Braves more. Smoltz’s shoulder issues, Davies inability to get major league hitters out, James inability to pitch 7 innings, Soriano and Yates arms falling off. Honestly man.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

N8 you look like an idiot right now

By Lew

July 4, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

Efrim-It’s not a matter of me saying anything. Look at the Mets’ pitching stats since May 20th. They’ve gone steadily down the tubes. They’ve given up 23 runs in the past two nights and they still have 1/3 of tonight’s game left. I’m not making any of this up. It’s actually happened and is still happening. Check the numbers.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

wow….nate you talked crap about CJ and hits a two RBI single and Chuck James got a two hitter going into the bottom of the 5th.

By jason

July 4, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

thank you hoss….

Grady Little is a lame manager. how do you not walk Andruw in that spot.

By jason

July 4, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

thank you hoss….

Grady Little is a lame manager. how do you not walk Andruw in that spot.

By jason

July 4, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

thank you hoss….

Grady Little is a lame manager. how do you not walk Andruw in that spot.

By chopper

July 4, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Andruw now going for another Golden Sombrero.Even James is 15 points higher than our clean-up hitter-abysmal!

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

I think Andruw is losing 1 million dollars every game. I truly believe that.

Boras was going to ask for 8 years and 160 million. We have played 84 games and I estimate that Jones has lost that much money so far.

The guy is going to get 5 years and 75 million offered to him, but I have a feeling he takes a 1 year deal with someone else, kind of like Nomar did.

By Tom

July 4, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

Let the meltdown begin….

By ijonathan

July 4, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

I love the way our tough-as-nails pitching staff shuts down the opposition after our hitters give them a lead.

By Lew

July 4, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

Efrim-And what, exactly, should I do about the Braves’ problems? Sit here and propose more ridiculous trades or rehash some of the other ludicrous ones already proposed? I choose to look for a bit of optimism in the fact that despite our problems, the Mets our real competition, are falling apart much worse than we are. By rights, they should have run away with things by now, yet we are in line to be only 3 out at the end of this evening, with half the season remaining, even with the pieces you feel we can’t win with. Whatever.

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

Mark it down, Chuck won’t make it through the next inning.

By Ed Glennon

July 4, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

I heard a rumor that Pete Orr has been working out in centerfield.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

not much Francour bashing like last year…..the man has turned a corner. Only question which one do you want the power or the avg?

By N8

July 4, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

Lew

So let me get this “straight”…..

3 days ago, they weren’t overused (over the course of the whole season so far - because I know you know that’s what I was getting at), but as of today they are?

Man what a tough weekend, I guess, huh?

:-)

You can be optimistic all you want. Besides, tonight Chuck’s RESULTS have been exceptional, like they usually are. But he is STILL throwing too many pitches to get those results.

Now, I’m not talking too many pitches as in “pitch count”. Because, he doesn’t throw hard enough, for “total” pitches to effect him over the long haul. But if he was more efficiant, he could get into (and somethimes THROUGH) the 7th inning, which RIGHT NOW our bullpen needs.

So until he does that, he’s not going to be an acceptable #3 starter for me. Maybe a good 4th starter, but more than likely a dependable #5.

We (I) got spoiled/fooled into thinking that he was going to IMPROVE upon his season last year. Too big of expectations for him? Quite possibly, but it is what it is.

Nothing more, nothing less.

He’s keeping us in games, which we can’t say for Kyle Davies. But that’s like saying to somebody with bad breath: “Well, a turd might smell worse”.

Since DOB pointed out that Davies has the highest ERA for anybody with at least 40 starts over the last few years, one could assume that he might not make the starting staff of ANY OTHER major league team. So to compare Chuck (or anybody) to Davies, is rude.

I’ll my pizzing and moaning about chuck, has nothing more to do with me stating that he is NOT a good #3 starter. Not that he can’t (or hasn’t) contributed to helping us win some games.

But if you wanna keep arguing with me, I’m game.

By TheSouthernJackAss

July 4, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

A wise man once said…nothing…

By Bob, Journalist

July 4, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

Hey Bob, I don’t question the wisdom of your remark but neither is it my intention to fail to respond to posts directed to me. Lonely Are the Braves post to me and David O’B’s response to an earlier post caused me to think some clarification was in order.

If folks find those remarks in any way offensive or my so doing inappropriate, it most certainly wasn’t my intent to be either … I find it unfortunate if they so do, but that’s their prerogative.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

I dont think he will either however, I think our bullpen will shut’em down

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

I dont think he will either however, I think our bullpen will shut’em down. Besides what more you want from him…..he’s did not pitch bad tonight.

By N8

July 4, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this

“N8 you look like an idiot right now”

Why, because coming into that AB, Chipper was hitting .225 with RISP?

Or is it because Chuck has 74 pitches through 5 IP, which means, we’re gonna NEED 3 innings out of our bullpen tonight, after they’ve been taxed for the last week or so?

I’m some IDIOT.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 4, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

hk, journalist knows hk is out there. might be a good time to do a graph showing what a decent hitter at cleanup would do to the braves record so far.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

wow…..i think i would keep C. James in the game.

By LVChad

July 4, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

I’m a little surprised Cox is pinch hitting for Chuck in the bottom of the 5th. With the way the bullpen has pitched the last 4 games and the number of innings they have logged. Doesn’t make sense to me. I guess we’ll see.

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Does Oliver Perez or John Maine have a serious shoulder issue?

No they don’t. Our problems are worse than there’s. We need to make a move to stay in this thing. That is my feeling. They aren’t ridiculous trade proposals. I would deal Lillibridge or Harrison if it meant bringing back a starter for this season.

By Brainstormer

July 4, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this

Would the Braves have been 11-17 in the games not started by Chipper this year if Escobar had been up and playing third base in those games?

By B9

July 4, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

I’d argue with you guys but I’m benign.

By N8

July 4, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this

TBFKB

“wow…..i think i would keep C. James in the game.”

THAT would make you the idiot. :-)

Hmmm, a 4-1 lead and 4 innings needed out of the pen. This should get interesting, in an idiotic kind of way.

By Josh C

July 4, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this

N8 fifteen pitches an inning is average. Four batters an inning (1.00 WHIP), four pitches a batter. Fifteen an inning gives you 105 over seven. Not sure why we’d pull him…

By Kindergarten Cop

July 4, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

It is not benign. It is NOT A TOOOOOMAAAH!

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

I hope that doesn’t come back to haunt us. The all star break will give the pen rest. But still…….

By N8

July 4, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

Like clockwork.

Tick-Tock, Tick-Tock, Tick-Tock……

By Efrim

July 4, 2007 11:13 PM | Link to this

This would be more rough than the last three losses. I need a drink.

By Brainstormer

July 4, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this

I felt more comfortable watching McBride walk the ballyard than watching Wilfreda.

By mr baseball

July 4, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

For all you who still think the manager has any remaining functioning brain cells, we offer as evidence Ledezma coming in to start the 6th with a bunch of RH hitters coming up. Where’s Moylan? Where’s Paronto? Ledezma pitched almost 2 innings yesterday. Taking out James after 5 would seem to be a sound decision based on his struggles when he goes through the order for the 3rd time, but given the current bullpen situation, it was a risk. The Dodgers are about to get right back in the game.

We need to get a pool started on how long before Cox gets Andruw out of the cleanup spot. Given his proven inability to view a situation and make anything resembling a logical decision, Andruw may still be hitting 4th in September with the Braves under .500 and mathematically eliminated.

I hope all the national baseball experts who think Cox is a Hall of Fame manager are paying attention to his handling of the cleanup situation.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

i think he would of done better than what we have……Pete said on radio, or speculated, that C. James may go on three days rest in the place of davies.

By The Grinch

July 4, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

I just checked in for the first time and I’ll be damned if can figure out why Cox pinch hit for CJ in that situation when the bullpen’s as worn out as ours is and James is cruising. If y’all knew me before this season, you’d know I’d only b*** about Bobby’s moves about once a week. Now it’s about twice a game, and not because I’m getting b***. WTF? Let’s hope it turns out ok anyway. Now, explosives…

By Ron

July 4, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

Efrim Your sooo worried about our rotation, but the Mets Rotation is even worst than ours!!! And dont give me this sh!t about Pedro coming back, because he aint gonna do sh!t for them, he is f*** finished!!!

By LVChad

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

This is not looking good. Bases loaded with no outs. Why did Bobby pull Chuck? I wish MLB was blacking this out as I can’t stop myself from watching this horror show known as the Braves pitching staff.

Got a chance after the DP.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

moylan got some serious break on his pitches. Not one has broken less than 9”.

By JAYSEN

July 4, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

THIS PEN SUCKS…EVERYBODY SUCKS!!!

IF FEELS JUST LIKE LAST YEAR…ONLY 2 MONTHS LATER IN THE SEASON.

DO SOMETHING MCDOWELL..YOU ARE A SAD CASE FOR A PITCHING COACH. GET IN SOMEONES FACE, INSTEAD OF LOOKING AT YOUR CLEATS..

By N8

July 4, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

Josh C

“N8 fifteen pitches an inning is average.”

That’s what I’m getting at. He (Chuck) is average AT BEST. 4.00ish ERA, averages about 5.1 IP per start, while averaging “the average” ammount of pitches. I’ve NEVER said that “Chuck SUCKS” or “Chuck is not good for anything”.

I’ve simply stated that he is NOT an above average #3 starter.

Also, Pete just said on radio, that he’s “gonna guess” that with Bobby’s frustration with Davies as of late, that he wouldn’t be surprised if they brought Chuck back on 3-days rest Sunday, with the all-star break coming up.

Makes sense to me, I guess. But it STILL doesn’t help our bullpen NOW!

By Josh C

July 4, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

Funny how these underhanded pitchers seem to start out hot then go into the tank. I know we’ve had Garber(who’s mentioned THAT name recently?) and Clontz. Only good ones I remember were Tekulve and Quisenberry, who unfortunately had retired and passed away before his natural endorsement deal, Quizno’s was founded.

By B9

July 4, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this

I’d offer to arbitrate this matter of idiocy but alas, I am benign.

By MEB

July 4, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this

Rockies are whomping the Mets 17-6 with about 5 minutes left in the second half.

Man I hate that commercial for Diet Pepsi Max with everyone yawning. Pepsi products… yuk!

Still stoked about Chestnut’s victory in the hot dog eating contest. Great victory for America on her birthday. Atta boy Joey!

The Braves are absolutely killing me with their Jekyll and Hyde performances of late. Wow!!! Moylan got us out of that jam only allowing one run to score. Way to go mate!

By Bob

July 4, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

Good job by Moylan. Actually, they might very well have pulled James for possible use early on 3 days rest.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh…….

By Bob

July 4, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

Nice cut AJ. Has anyone ever seen a more silent 8 game hitting streak? 48 more till he ties the Yankee Clipper. LOL

By Out Of The Funk

July 4, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this

Wow! Andruw homered!

This must mean he is coming around!?!?

Nahhhhhhh. Blind hog will find an acorn sometimes.

By GermanBravesFan

July 4, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this

Homerun by Andruw? :-)

By mr baseball

July 4, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

History in the making, Braves fans. Andruw is closing in on becoming the first (I’m guessing) player in MLB history with a BA under the Mendoza line to embark on a hitting streak of at least 10 games and not have his average go up more than a point or 2.

Another suspect bullpen move by the manager. Yates is complaining of a tender arm and has not exactly been stellar this series, but here he is again. Looked good against the first hitter, but he’s definitely going to need a day or 2 off after this.

Hope Soriano & Wickman got it tonight, ‘cause there ain’t much left behind them.

By Ed Glennon

July 4, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

That was great strategy on Chipper’s part to make an out so Andruw could hit with the bases empty. Andruw gets nervous with men on base especially with his agent watching. How many bases empty homers does he have?

By Bob, Journalist

July 4, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

Most Honorable Southern, I imagine that wise man so said more than just once … but had he always so done, would anyone have known that he was wise?

But then, it is not pertinent that we know, only that he is.

Happy 4th, mom ami

By Bob

July 4, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

GermanBravesFan,

Haven’t talked to you in a while. When you headed back to Frankenland? Yeah, Andruw’s third HR over this 8 game hitting streak. Of course, one hit per night doesn’t do much for that Mendoza like avg.

By TBFKB

July 4, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

salty is the only one without a hit tonight

By Josh C

July 4, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

N8 I agree with you that Chuck is average. Said all along that at this point in his career he’s a number four or five. Hell, how many rooks come up and do any better? He’s had about one full season’s worth of starts now, and averaged over 5. He could well develop into a number two guy (noted double entendre) one way or the other.

That said, the pitch count of 105 over seven is average for your good pitchers with power pitchers higher than that. There are very few Maddux-esque ground ball pitchers who throw fewer.

By HP

July 4, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this

Where are the Mets fans when they are losing? NO BRAIN ZONE is also gone. When the muts gona start winning; he is going to come back and tell us that he was on a trip to elsewhere. Do muts fans have guts to tell truth? Please be honest. If you are going to support your team, then support all the way, not just when they are only winning.

By MEB

July 4, 2007 11:58 PM | Link to this

So if Joey Chestnut shows up at Turner Field and buys a ticket in the All-You-Can-Eat seats does security toss him out. Just think at ball park prices Joey’s lunch today of 66 hot dogs would cost about $429.

So… is everybody ready for Wicky in the bottom of the ninth? I think I will go to bed and read about it tomorrow. Would be nice to get some more insurance runs.

GO BRAVES!!!

By JohnGTfan

July 5, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

I’m sorry, I’m not saying some of you people are wrong, but how can you think of trading Yunel and Salty??? They are the future!!! They are the brightest of the young guys we have. Trade for Buehrle??? Are you serious? For a half-season? He will leave at the end of this season and go back to CHI. It’s the only place he wants to play. Trade for Dunn??? He strikes out as much as Andruw. I say stick with what we have…although I do like the idea of bringing up young pitchers and dumping Davies and the rest of his junk crew. But I do believe we keep our young talent. Chipper, Andruw and Edgar..none of us know how long we will have them. Why sell the future for a short term “hope”. There isn’t a single pitcher out there available that would be a sure bet to get ATL into the playoffs this season. And honestly, the way the Mets are playing, there’s no reason to think we can’t win the “least” with our current roster.

By Tomas

July 5, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

Worst Deal ever Mike Hampton, especially to the Braves who do not have the kind of money the Yankees have. Thank god he is approaching the end of his contract, still he may remain a Brave if he agrees to a one year deal no bigger than 5 million. Andruw no matter if his average goes under the 100´s he will not get less than 16 million per year over a 4 year period. So after this season they will have 26 million to spend, there´s no excuse for the braves not to sign some quality players.

By The Metropolitan

July 5, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

The Mets are simply enduring a ‘rockie’ patch. They will eventually win the division and finish many games ahead of the Braves who, unfortunately, will not make the playoffs.

Now where’s my martini.

By N8

July 5, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

Josh C

“That said, the pitch count of 105 over seven is average for your good pitchers with power pitchers higher than that.”

I’m not trying to be an azz and continue arguing with you, since I feel that we are on the same page, with Chuck’s ability and expectations we have of him. But….

Chuck has started 18 games this year (including tonight), he has mad 1646 pitches (91 per start). In those 18 starts he’s averaging 5.1 IP per start.

So even, going by the “average” pitches of 107 per 7 IP, he’s still throwing too many pitches, thus continuing the “theory” that he is average at best.

Averaging 91 pitches in 5.1 IP, is too many. Like I said earlier, his results have been fine, for the most parts. Now if he could find a way to KEEP HIS RESULTS where they are, while adding 1.2 IP (or so) to each start, he will have taken the next step to being a decent #3. THEN, if he is able to do that, AND trim between .5 and 1 run off his ERA, he will be a legit #2.

Until then, based on his 4.00 ERA, and lack of ability to consistantly finish the 6th inning, much less go beyond it, he will be a 4th or 5th guy.

It’s that simple to me.

Speaking of “trimming” some runs off his ERA, he really just needs to be coached into making better adjustments, or making adjustments at all.

Here’s what I mean.

The 1st TIME through a batting order he holds them to a .236 average, .310 OBP., and .350 SLG.

2nd TIME: .254, .324, and .385 (still respectable).

However, the 3rd TIME: .367, .436 and .733!….. YIKES.

THAT is why he doesn’t get deep in games, and even when he IS ON, Bobby takes him out at the first sign of trouble.

Can you blame him?

By Brainstormer

July 5, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

Trade Yuni for Baez and an AWOL drug addicted utility infielder with no speed, no power, no range who can only play one, maybe two positions. But, hey, we could justify it by saying that maybe we can get a draft pick out it. Whoop-de-damn-doo. But at least he can get on base when he is not snorting up the first base line.

By parks

July 5, 2007 12:17 AM | Link to this

Tomas, Hampton is not off the books till after next year. Also we have contracts jump up next year like Hudson’s. We will prob have somewhere in the ballpark of 7-8 million next year

By N8

July 5, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

Getting back to Chucks inability to get through the order the 3rd time, here are Hudson’s stats each time through the order

(batting average, OBP, SLG)

1st TIME: .199, .249, .289

2nd TIME: .261, .300, .359

3rd TIME: .281, .333, .338

Hudson is 8-5 with a 3.18 ERA

James will be (if they win) 8-7 with a 3.96 ERA.

Not getting through the order the 3rd time CLEARLY is the difference between him being merely an average pitcher, and being a VERY GOOD pitcher.

Because other than the 3rd time through the order, James and Hudson’s “stats” are pretty damn close.

Now it’s up to Chuck, McDowell and Cox to make sure he takes the next step.

To be continued….

By Joshhh

July 5, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

send him down.

By TBFKB

July 5, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

3 games out!

By Bob

July 5, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

Good win. Metropolitan after watching the last 4 games, you should consider something stronger than a martini. Then again, guess you guys are quite used to such losing streaks.

By mr baseball

July 5, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

Since our esteemed manager evidently is not going to drop Andruw in the batting order no matter how pathetic he is at the plate at least 4 of every 5 at bats, there may be a more palatable alternative. How about letting him bat leadoff. The key is to give him as many at bats as possoble with no one on base, and the leadoff spot is the best place in that regard.

Better to give up an out to start an inning than to have him come up with RISP. Try to hide him anywhere else in the lineup, and you’re just begging the opposing manager (at least those smarter than Grady Little, which means just about all of them) to intentionally walk the guy ahead of him.

Can one of you explain to me the fixation on what number the starting pitchers are designated as. Chuck James is 8-7 with an ERA under 4. What difference does it make if he’s a 3, a 4 or a 5. He’s a starting pitcher. Not a No. 1 or a No. 3 or a No. 5. It would be nice if he could go deeper into games, but 1 run over 5 innings is pretty good. Better than 4 runs in 7.

By MEB

July 5, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

Wicky had them right where he wanted.

GEEEEEEZZZZZZZ!!!

GO BRAVES!!!

By cjohnson

July 5, 2007 12:25 AM | Link to this

The idea of sending Renteria to SD for Maddox looks better and better…if we can have him for a couple of years. His teaching ability for the youngsters would be as valuable as his arm right now….Take a look at the SD ERA since he has arrived and worked with those young guys.

If Smoltzie goes down for longer than 1 game were in big trouble….we gotta have a move JS…NOW!!!!

DOB…..in your opinion is a Mad Dog trade even conceivable for the Braves…It seems to be a classic JS move and would benefit both teams in a playoff run…SD could surely use someone on the left side that can hit a ball.

Way to go Wickman…..Thanks Muts for getting your clocks cleaned and puttin us a game closer to you filthy selves!!

By Josh C

July 5, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this

Since our pitching coach doesn’t seem to do much, perhaps Bobby can teach ‘em how to throw the old Boogerball. Could save the season.

G’night all…

By JohnGTfan

July 5, 2007 12:33 AM | Link to this

I think to really send a message to Andruw…here’s a thought…bat him 9th, right after the pitcher for one game. If that type of embarrasment doesn’t light a fire under his $$$, then nothing will.

By stynes

July 5, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this

Speaking of LA music, DOB… you’ve gotta check out “LA Freeway” by Guy Clark:

Pack up all your dishes. Make note of all good wishes. Say goodbye to the landlord for me. That son of a b*** has always bored me. Throw out them LA papers And that moldy box of vanilla wafers. Adios to all this concrete. Gonna get me some dirt road back street

If I can just get off of this LA freeway Without getting killed or caught I’d be down that road in a cloud of smoke For some land that I ain’t bought bought bought

Here’s to you old skinny Dennis Only one I think I will miss I can hear that old bass singing Sweet and low like a gift you’re bringin’ Play it for me just one more time now Got to give it all we can now I beleive everything your saying Just keep on, keep on playing

If I can just get off of this LA freeway Without getting killed or caught I’d be down that road in a cloud of smoke For some land that I ain’t bought bought bought

And you put the pink card in the mailbox Leave the key in the old front door lock They will find it likely as not I’m sure there’s somethin’ we have forgot Oh Susanna, don’t you cry, babe Love’s a gift that’s surely handmade We’ve got something to believe in Dontcha’ think it’s time we’re leavin’

If I can just get off of this LA freeway Without getting killed or caught I’d be down that road in a cloud of smoke For some land that I ain’t bought bought bought

By N8

July 5, 2007 12:41 AM | Link to this

mr. baseball

Your question about caring what # a pitcher is in the rotation, is a valid one.

The ONLY time it might come into play, would be the post season. If the rotation stays as it is, and we some how miraculously make the playoffs, make no mistake about it, Chuck would start game 3. That is unless Smoltz is lost for the year at some point, then he would start game 2. YIKES.

What my point is, is that in a perfect world, you would like 3 guys in your rotation that can:

A) Give you good starts (under 4.00 ERA)…CHECK.

B) Give you innings (averaging 6 or mor IP per start)…No CHECK.

Because MOST teams (with payrolls under 200 million), aren’t gonna have top notch 4th and 5th starters. We certainly don’t (Buddy and Davies).

So we NEED our #3 guy (Chuck) to give us innings. Period.

Now, I believe that JS knew in the off season that our starters (even if Hampton had pitched), weren’t gonna be long inning guys. So he shored up the pen.

Wickman to close.

Soriano & Gonzalez for the 7th and 8th.

Yates, McBride, for the situational relievers if needed.

Oscar for the long man.

But as soon as Hampton went down, that put a wrinkle in things. Then Cormier after having a surprising spring goes down. Wrinkle #2. Redman steps in, and thoroughly SUCKS. Wrinkle #3. Gonzalez goes down. Wrinkle #4. Smoltz has an aching shoulder, thus limiting his starts and length of the ones he makes. Wrinkle #5. McBride renders himself useless against LHB’s. Wrinkle #6. Chuck doesn’t take a step forward and “accept” the challenge of being the #3 guy in the rotation. Wrinkle #7.

Ultimately, I think losing Gonzo was the hardest hit the staff has taken. Since he was one of (if not THE) biggest acuisitions this past off-season, with the thought of turning games into 6 inning affairs, thus making Chuck only occasionally going beyond 6 innings, a moot point.

I honestly think (other than Cormier’s, Redmans’ and most of Davies’ starts), that if we had Gonzo doing what he WAS doing, and what he’s done in the past, which is why JS wanted him, we would be in better shape.

But that’s just me. Way bigger loss than Hampton not playing, IMO.

By TBFKB

July 5, 2007 12:47 AM | Link to this

Why in the world would SD trade Mad Dog??? So they could have a less effective rotation such as ours? Pitching wins championships and I dont think SD is fresh off the great pelican ride.

Why would we trade Renteria when we could easily trade other players that are expendable and does not have the impact Renty does. We do have chips to trade without having to trade Renteria, Salty, or Escobar. I am sure K. Johnson would ivite a few callers as would our fine stock of middle infielders thats in ther minors that everyone talks about. Thormon would most certainly have a little trade value in a package deal. I see a trade occuring such as the one J.S. pulled off similar to the T. Hudson trade.

Bottom line Renteria is not going anywear, and to even consider otherwise is plain stupidty.

By TBFKB

July 5, 2007 12:54 AM | Link to this

With out doubt Hampton loss is much bigger. IMO. Our bullpen has been good since Gozo’s injury effectivly negating it. Our bullpen is not the issue at all and I dont think one reliever has that great of an impact on a team pitching rotation, unless your names is Kolb or Reitsman.

By Savannah Guy

July 5, 2007 1:04 AM | Link to this

Happy July 5th. Today the BBQ ribs were good. Blue crabs were good. Beers were good. White Russians were good. Friends were very good. Fireworks, oohs and ahhs…good. All was good. No gnats and nice breeze…priceless. Reading the Declaration of Independence that Carolina Lady supplied was a nice kickoff for the day. Thanks CL.

The toes and thumbs were working well tonight it seems. Chipper took some crucial “left turns” on the bases tonight. He said that after the game (not in those exact words mind you). I like that…nice touch Chipper. Witty, kind of like crooked numbers. Also good baseballese. Did Chipper coin those?

On that note and with that phraseology, I see that Andruw took mostly…ho hum…right turns. Except for a complete circle once. Could he remember how to get around those bases? Yes. He did remember. I thought he jogged around quite well. And he touched every bag. Nice. Well done.

Kudos to Andruw for showing all those naysayers…he can still circle those bases every 200 AB’s, but still, if he continues on this hot streak his batting average will rise by at least 10% by year end. Now, who else can say that? You go Drew. Turn left Andruw. Just like those NASCAR fellas…turn left and run run run, go go go. But first, try to hit hit hit more often often often.

Since I missed much of the game due to soiree elongation, I trust that the cameras were on our manager a few times in the dugout. Was the usual obstruction…uh…dug out? Is that a double entendre? Was the 95 WS ring used as a depth gauge? Did Kleenex seize the promotional opportunity? Only time will tell.

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2007 1:04 AM | Link to this

That was about as close to must-win as you’ll get before the break, seeing that Penny is going tomorrow and being swept four games would have been quite deflating. The boys are hitting now together, at least most of them _ Chipper, Francoeur, McCann, Edgar, Escobar, Diaz/Harris … they’re all starting to swing the bats well or very well at the same time.

Of course, they’re gonna need to if they keep getting five or six innings from the starters and erratic work from the ‘pen like they’ve gotten the past week.

STYNES: L.A. Freeway has been much-discussed, quoted and the lyrics posted here before. It’s a favorite of several regulars here, including yours truly. Guy Clark is a giant, and that’s one of the true gems from his trove of great songs.

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2007 1:07 AM | Link to this

Oh, by the way: Those Mets sure look uncatchable, don’t they?

By cjohnson

July 5, 2007 1:08 AM | Link to this

TBFKB….why would SD trade Maddox….They have 5 starters with ERAs under 4…and a 6th starter just over 4 (mucho depth there)….they also have a SS and 3b that are hitting around 230-240 with no power at all…..theyre in a playoff hunt with gr8 pitching and a dead spot on the left side……seems like several good reasons to me??? The Braves would have to move money to pick up a big pitcher and although i luv Edgar hes the only one we could move….doesnt hurt that we had massive depth at short(mucho depth here also)…..lastly…if you havent noticed, we do have payroll limitations to deal with and trading young(unproven) cheap guys for old(proven) expensive ones equates to higher payroll that we dont currently have the pleasure of enjoying.

By TBFKB

July 5, 2007 1:15 AM | Link to this

Mad Dog bring more to the team than innings and ERA. His effect on that entire team is prob worth more than what ever production he provides as a pitcher.

By mr baseball

July 5, 2007 1:16 AM | Link to this

To whoever is suggesting the Braves trade Renteria to the Padres for Maddux, please do the rest of us a favor and find a blog where people with absolutely no knowledge of baseball are the norm. First, there’s no way the Padres would even consider that trade. Their SS is on pace for a 26 HR, 90 RBI season, And no team, repeat NO TEAM in contention trades a front line SP for a position player where they already have a quality starter.

Why would the Braves make that deal? Renteria has another year left on his affordable contract, and shows no signs of a dropoff with the bat or the glove. Escober might be ready for the every day job, but why take the risk when Edgar is playing this well. And Maddux is no longer an ace, even though he has an ace’s contract. His numbers aren’t that much better than James, and it’s not like he’s going to be of much value after this season.

If Escobar suddenly becomes the every day starter, who is going to platoon at 2b with KJ (Woodward?), or do you play him every day even is he struggles against lefties? And who will play 3B if Chipper gets hurt again?

Thinking before blogging is not legally required, but does come in handy on occasion.

3 games back and the Mets are in worse trouble with their starting pitching.

By N8

July 5, 2007 1:19 AM | Link to this

TBFKB

“With out doubt Hampton loss is much bigger.”

You’re assuming that Hampton (coming off of major surgery) was gonna be able to go more than 5 innings himself? I doubt it. Though I won’t argue that since he’s “been there/done that”, he would’ve been better equipped to handle the #3 responsiblity of the rotation.

“Our bullpen has been good since Gozo’s injury effectivly negating it.”

With Gonzo, Soriano and Wickman anchoring our bullpen it wouldn’t have been good, it might have been the best in baseball. Don’t underestimate the domino effect his loss (Gonzo) has had on the entire pen. Yates, Moylan and Poranto essentially would be mop-up/6th inning guys. Which is usually less pressure than holding a lead in the 8th inning.

“Our bullpen is not the issue at all and I dont think one reliever has that great of an impact on a team pitching rotation…”

It hasn’t YET. But since our starters can’t go deep into games, they eventually will wear down some. When he got hurt, Gonzo had 18 appearances for 17 innings, with an ERA of 1.59. You know how dominant Soriano has been? Gonzalez is (and would’ve been better IMO - 24 or 24 in saves last year with a CAREER 2.29 ERA). Imagine having TWO guys as good as Soriano. Then imagine the domino effect of moving all the guys like Moylan and Yates “back a spot” in the pen.

So regarding one guy NOT having an effect on a staff, I think your wrong, and I’d be willing to bet that JS would agree with me, otherwise he wouldn’t have traded a GREAT fielding 1B (who had around 30 HR and 90 RBI) for him. He would’ve scrounged for another starter.

It’s all hypothetical speculation, that could be a matter of opinion.

But IMO, Gonzo WOULD HAVE made an impact. Like I said, he wouldn’t have made Davies or Redman pitch better. But that’s not what I was saying.

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2007 1:24 AM | Link to this

Come on, fellas. Maddux to the Braves, for Renteria? Did you guys inhale too much fireworks smoke, or what? Geez….

They’re not trading Maddux, who is credited with having a huge effect on Peavy and other young Padres pitchers, and who’s got a ton of postseason experience (last I checked, Padres are a contender).

And what do you think they’re going to do with Khalil Greene, send him to the minors? He’s their guy, even if his average is way down (he’s still got a lot of RBIs).

Besides, Renteria’s a huge piece of the Braves’ lineup, he does a lot to make it go with his perfect No. 2-hitting approach. And he thrives in the postseason, with the big hit in the most pressured situations.

OK, now I noticed a post I filed earlier never made it on here, for whatever reason. It got caught up in the holding pen thing (which certainly has a name other than holding pen, but I like holding pen).

So some of you can stop whining about censorship and blah blah blah the next time your post doesn’t get through (though there was censorship tonight on one extremely distasteful post. You know who you are; I’d recommend not repeating that, or you’ll be banned, I’d imagine).

Anyway, here was my deleted post, in answer to a query from Nelly:

Nelly, I don’t think Smoltz could have pitched like he did the past six starts if he had “serious” damage in the shoulder.

If you saw him sprinting in the outfield during batting practice today (before he tried to throw a bullpen), chasing dozens of fly balls like a 40-year-old kid, yukking it up out there, you’d know he’s not too worried about serious damage. (And I must say, he’d be a star outfielder if he’d gone that direction. Unbelievable, how athletic he still is.)

By N8

July 5, 2007 1:26 AM | Link to this

DOB

“Oh, by the way: Those Mets sure look uncatchable, don’t they?”

I know you’re just being facetious, but if they choose to NOT make any moves before the deadline, you’re right. They WOULD BE very catchable.

However, you and I both know that Minaya is NOT gonna stand pat, and they will be willing to overpay for anybody that can help. Especially since the Yankees are having an off year, and the chance is there for them to steal the back page headlines.

So if all things were equal, it would be a dog-fight. I still think the wild-card will come out of the west - too much pitching out there for it to not, IMO.

And as we know things are not “equal”. The Mets have way more money to spend and are willing to throw it around.

If we don’t gain ground and do it fast, I believe that while they may be catchable, it might not be US that catches them. Especially if Smoltz’ injury is more serious than it appears to be.

By jbutler

July 5, 2007 1:26 AM | Link to this

Hey…did anyone catch the article on ESPN.com about AJ’s plummeting stock on the free agency market?? Interesting read….And…go Rockies!!! Just got back from watching fireworks at Coors Field- they seemed much brighter with the score of the game behind them!!!

By jerrbear

July 5, 2007 1:39 AM | Link to this

Please don’t dominate the rap Jack if you got nothing new to say If you please don’t back up the track This train got to run today

Spent a little time on the mountain Spent a little time on the hill Heard some say better run away Others say you better stand still

Now I don’t know but I been told it’s hard to run with the weight of gold Other hand I heard it said it’s just as hard with the weight of lead

Who can deny? Who can deny? it’s not just a change in style One step done and another begun in I wonder how many miles?

Spent a little time on the mountain Spent a little time on the hill Things went down we don’t understand but I think in time we will

Now I don’t know but I been told in the heat of the sun a man died of cold Do we keep on coming or stand and wait with the sun so dark and the hour so late?

You can’t overlook the lack Jack of any other highway to ride It’s got no signs or dividing lines and very few rules to guide

Spent a little time on the mountain Spent a little time on the hill I saw things getting out of hand I guess they always will

I don’t know but I been told if the horse don’t pull you got to carry the load I don’t know whose back’s that strong Maybe find out before too long

One way or another One way or another One way or another this darkness got to give One way or another One way or another One way or another this darkness got to give

By Coach (Bringing the Wrecking Ball)

July 5, 2007 1:40 AM | Link to this

Andruw’s last ten games including tonight : 9 for 45 = .200 batting AVG. 6 singles - 1 double - 3 HR - 6 RBI - 6 BB - 14 K’s and 31 runners left on base. Dave Kingman , you have company. In the meantime , Braves win , Braves win , Braves win ! Chucky is money. The bullpen finally showed up or was it just jet lag ? Escobar is playing out of his mind. The offense has scored 59 runs in the last ten games , thats , um 5.90 runs per game , pretty impressive. Six wins and four losses over that ten game stretch and if they had anybody else in CF they would probably be 8-2 or 9-1. We have to face Brad Penny tonight and it’s a make or break game for the four game series. P.S Scott Boras wanted you to know that AJ has a seven game hitting streak , never mind the .201 BA , 87 K’s and .690 OPS

By gotigers72

July 5, 2007 1:42 AM | Link to this

I can’t believe Davies has such outstanding stuff, yet is such a p** poor pitcher. Million dollar arm, 5 cent head. No way he should be that bad with the stuff he has.

Does McDowell not have some pitching coach tip he can give young pitchers [Davies and Chuck] on how they can keep the ball down? Chuck pitched well tonight, but the only run he gave up was because he gave up 2 doubles on pitches up in the zone. We all know how bad of a pitcher Davies is when he doesn’t keep the ball down. I sure hope Kevin Barry isn’t the pitcher that is brought up to pitch in Smoltz’ slot on Saturday. Surely they have somebody better than that at Richmond or Mississippi. And it ain’t Cormier either.

Ledezma is another that could use a tip on how to keep the ball down. I’m not impressed with him at all. Too many pitches in the hitters’ happy zone. I believe he’s given up runs in every appearance but one. Not to be used except in blow outs.

I sure hope Davies doesn’t start the last game before the break, but I’ll bet he does. Here’s hoping JS and company figure out something to do over the break to tweak the pitching staff. Davies cannot continue to pitch in the majors the way he is pitching now.

And for the millionth time, BC, GET AJ OUT OF THE FREEAKIN’ CLEANUP SPOT.

By jbutler

July 5, 2007 1:42 AM | Link to this

Okay…so to keep commenting on the really IMPORTANT things around here…did anyone check out Brad Penny’s picture on MLB.com?? He could just use that as his mugshot if he ever skirts that side of the law. I think I sat too close to the sparklers tonight. A little loopy.

By Caleb

July 5, 2007 1:45 AM | Link to this

DOB, I posted about it a little while back, but what do you think about the idea of bringing Maddux back as the pitching coach when he retires from pitching? I think he’d be brilliant.

By Sir Stealth

July 5, 2007 1:51 AM | Link to this

N8, you absolutely suck. I don’t care if the Braves go 0-162, this fan isn’t gonna thrive on being negative about the team. If you take any pleasure in being pleased with yourself when you say the team is gonna suck and its sucks, then I don’t know why you even have an interest in the fist place. You can say what you want about a person giving his honest assessment, being realistic, whatever, but you suck. It pains me deeply when the Braves fail to win, but I could do without the fans falling all over themselves to give up on them, and you have little enough life to post nonstop enough to represent those people for me now. If Smoltz’s arm falls on the ground next time around and you don’t think the Braves have a shot, then go say it to your dog or the wall. I’m tired of being ashamed to be a memeber of the Braves Nation.

GO BRAVES

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 2:06 AM | Link to this

Dave Missed the game tonight. Family stuff to do. Family first, job second, Braves third.

Last night you were alluding to some rumblings that you thought the Braves might be up to something on the trade front. It seems they were very busy, too busy to talk. Are things still the same, or are they back to normal tonight.

BTW, I understand your points on McCann. I will cease and desist from talking about trading him in the off season. (even though I think we signed the second best long-term catcher on our team to that six year contract!)

I really like Salty and Escobar, as most of us do. I see the definite need to upgrade the rotataion, even if it is just a fringe player, a tad better than Davies is right now. Could that upgrade be JoJo Reyes?? I can’t see giving up one of the kids for a summer rental. Also, I am not impressed with Vasquez, although if he became a Brave, he would become one of my favorite players!!

I do think that the winter will bring along some interesting developments for Salty (first base or where??) and for our SS position. If Yunel continues to impress, then Renteria OVER THE WINTER, NOT NOW might be a chip with which to bring in a CF or starter.

Hope everyone had a great 4th holiday. The city of Layton, Utah, does a fantastic fireworks display. 27 minutes of excitement tonight!

I also think it funny that we can argue as much here about music as we argue about baseball!

Don’t you love her madly?????? Want to meet her daddy? Don’t you love her ways? Don’t you love her as shes walking out the door? Like she did one gazillion times before……..

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 2:09 AM | Link to this

Willie Harris alert: Now batting 367!

Sir Stealth Agreed that on most occasions, N8 does indeed suck. Way too negative for this life long Braves fan, who used to pull for Eddie Mathews, Deron Johnson, and Cletis Boyer!

By Coach (Bringing the Wrecking Ball)

July 5, 2007 2:12 AM | Link to this

Chuck James has pitched a little better than most want to believe. In eighteen starts , he has eight quality starts , seven to the good and three to the bad. The team has gone 10-8 in his starts. His problem has been obvious , I haven’t seen the same sheer aggressiveness this season that he showed in 2006 , which is why his pitch counts are up and he hasn’t been able to go deep into the majority of his starts. Tonight was more of the same high pitch count due to his inability to throw more strikes. Check this out , he has the same number of starts as last season (18) , in 2006 he had 47 walks and 91 strikeouts , in 2007 - 40 walks and 72 strikeouts. He has thrown 21 fewer innings in the same number of starts , given up fewer runs and HR’s. I think it comes back to the lack of aggression on his part , he just isn’t going right after the hitters with the same consistency he had in 2006. He needs to throw more strikes , which lowers his pitch count and will allow him to get into the sixth and seventh inning consistently.

By Peerless' Mama

July 5, 2007 2:12 AM | Link to this

Ya’ll behave. Enjoy tomorrow.

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 2:26 AM | Link to this

Excellent points coach. Do you think part of it could be from his youthfulness and lack of experience. Last year he came in with little expectations, and this year, maybe he thinks too much???

By P-Town Brave

July 5, 2007 2:38 AM | Link to this

Wayne

I’m totally confused…First you get on N8 for being negative and you give an update on Willie Harris’ batting average, which was meant in a negative way…and the post before you talk about how you’re unimpressed w/ Javier Vazquez who just threw a complete game 4 hitter last night and just finished his 14th straight game of 6 or more IP per start…

I really wonder how you feel about Kyle Davies, Chuck James, and Buddy Carlyle then…oh…and if I had one of those smilicons where the eyes roll, I’d certainly use it here! I’d be extremely happy to have Vazquez here and according to Mark Bowman the Bravos may promote Jo Jo to make Smoltz’s start on Saturday as it will put him there on regular rest.

By rupert

July 5, 2007 2:48 AM | Link to this

heres the deal, the mets of this season aint the mets from last season, they aint running off anywhere, the phills are the phills, gonna be pesky till the end, but NO ONE would wager on them, the fish are fried, braves have the talent, but something is just not there right now to vaught them to 10+ over .500 category, as opposed to there tedering 3-5 above like they have been, i think gonzo’s loss as been underemphaized…

what to do, they need another starter, hopefull reyes gets the nod sat., maybe he can pull a kyle davis (ala 05) and plug that hole, asking a lot from a kid, but he’s supposidly the real deal, the bullpen could use an arm, either devine, from the minors or a vet via trade, i also see js making a move for a bench guy like ward was last year….

this team needs to split in LA, try and get 2 out of 3 in san dieago where they play well, nice to be only 1 or 2 games back, the stretch after the all star break MAKES THIS SEASON, one time when they need to quit worrying about winning series, but sweep 3 out of 4 or something, that would get them the lead in the east and if that happens, ny will crumble, the braves own them anyway this year, but having a lead will make miniya (most overrated gm of all time) trade top talent for aging vets, wont work because once ny media turns on them, they will fall, yankees should be done by then, so the juicy story will be mets collapse.

big game from huddy tom. night, o and GET RID OF WOODWARD, ORR, VILLAREAL, and PARANTO!!!!

By Bob, Journalist

July 5, 2007 2:49 AM | Link to this

gotigers72, do you think Kyle’s problems might related to some delivery modifications that are not yet ingrained? If memory serves, some seem to think that, as the game progresses, he becomes increasingly lax in finishing his pitches.

After reading that, I reviewed one of his outings and shared that view, at least directionally for that one game. If it’s true, then it may be an indication that the changes haven’t truly become ingrained and he’s “thinking” about too many keys after the return part of his delivery is triggered … when this happens, methinks focus changes as the game progresses … more and more on the situation and less and less on the effecting of the modifications.

Regardless of what anyone thinks, you generally have to get worse before you can get better because there are conflicting forces at play … (1) performing the job at hand and (2) effecting the changes.

Also, while I’ve seen no such evidence, when a pitcher has superior stuff and is consistently bested by the batters, it suggests that he may be, to some extent, tipping his pitches.

Methinks that’s part of Andruw’s problem … tipping his hitting … all the pitchers know what he’s going to try to do … at least most of the time. It’s great to be able to powerfully pull the ball … but, it’s rather foolish to let them know what you’re going to try to do before the ball is released.

Regardless, pitchers with superior stuff aren’t that plentiful and it pays to be patient with Kyle, regardless of the issues. That said, were he not the available option … or unless Roger thinks he’s on the verge of resolving those issues, I doubt that he would be starting.

Still, it’s hard to be patient when every game is of such importance.

My question concerns not Kyle, but Chuck …. is he a 5-6 inning pitcher whose style demands that he throw the number of pitches he throws … or does he have delivery flaws that need correcting so that his control improves?

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 2:54 AM | Link to this

P-town Far be it from me to try to confuse. All along, I have said that I love the fact that Willie Harris is playing WAY above anywhere he has ever played. I have always in my heart believed that he would settle in closer to his career averages, than where he currently sits. Just a little tongue in cheek slap at the folks that think Willie should be starting 162 games, which I am not a member of.

As for Vazquez, again, if he comes to Atlanta, I will pull for him 100% (as I do for Willie). My thinking is that he is 31 years old, and this is truly only his 3rd above average season out of 10 seasons. Is he turning the corner, or is he just an overpriced 3-4 starter? You tell me.

I like Chuckie, I am happy with what we have gotten out of Carlyle so far, and I am very disappointed in Davies. I have always thought Davies might turn into a decent 2-3 guy, but the longer it takes for him to get there, the more likely he won’t. Glavine sucked pretty bad for his first 40 plus starts in his career too. About as long as Davies has been “sucking”.

I would love to see JoJo get a start or two.

Don’t mistake my sarcasm for negativity. Sorry if I have given the wrong impression…..

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 3:02 AM | Link to this

rupert go to the braves website, and check the last 30 day stats for Paronto. 1.29 ERA in 12 appearances, covering 14 innings. If you forgive him for being tenative in May following the hammy strain, the guy has done quite well.

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 3:06 AM | Link to this

Kris Medlen promptly was promoted to Myrtle Beach, and gave up 2 runs in his first inning there. Oops.

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 3:10 AM | Link to this

Oscar seems to give up a lot of inherited runners. I remember thinking that last year. He had quite a few wins, and it seemed that early on, he would come in, let the other team tie the game on his predecessor’s runners, then pitch a good inning or two later, and get the eventual win.

Any others thinking the same?

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 3:13 AM | Link to this

Geez, it’s 1:15 am here. What am I still doing up?

Nite all!

By Coach (Bringing the Wrecking Ball)

July 5, 2007 3:28 AM | Link to this

Jo Jo Reyes will be the ninth different starter used in eighty-eight games by the Braves , we went through twelve last season. This is one of those indicators none of us wanted to see.

By gotigers72

July 5, 2007 3:29 AM | Link to this

Bob journalist - I am not enough of an expert on pitching to know whether or not delivery modifications are part of Kyle’s problems. He seems not to be able to keep focus in certain games, which may be leading to him being lax in finishing his pitches.

I do know enough to know that he has outstanding stuff, and therefore I don’t understand why he is such a poor pitcher. He may well be tipping his pitches, but Bobby or McDowell should have picked that up by now. My humble opinion is that he pitches up in the zone entirely too much [for whatever reason], and he has no idea what the corner of the plate looks like. His fastball has too little movement for him to throw it up AND over the fat part of the plate. His fastball and curve are both “plus pitches” in the scouts’ language, so it makes it hard for me to understand why he doesn’t do better.

I do agree with you that the Braves need to still be patient with him. Pitchers with stuff like his don’t come along often. But they need to be patient with him while he learns to PITCH [as opposed to throw], at Richmond. Right now he is chewing up the bullpen because he almost never goes past the 4th or 5th inning. That is demoralizing to the bullpen and the team. Imagine how the players feel when they continually get leads only to have them given away in the next half inning. He has done that a lot this year.

By Bob, Journalist

July 5, 2007 4:29 AM | Link to this

Snowball’s Chance, you sir, should be ashamed … regardless, of the topic, the use of such inflammatory rhetoric is clearly well calculated and contemptible.

Coach, I wasn’t aware you knew President Bush, the younger. I met his mama and daddy several years back in Maui when we stayed in the same tower of the same hotel … they seemed to be real nice folks, friendly … vacationing just like all the rest … seems I remember them saying something about little George just wanting to sell insurance but don’t recall hearing your name.

As an Actuary, I can tell you that there are some mighty fine and highly intelligent, successful insurance salesmen … some making 7 figures.

A Republican friend of ours who was traveling with us didn’t meet the Bush’s but spent over an hour with Mrs. Bush in the exercise room of the hotel, engaging in small talk … but they never really introduced themselves … he was “Jim” and she was just “Barbara”. He laughs about it now but I’m not sure he’s gotten over his disappointment or that he’s forgiven us.

I think they had three, maybe four secret service members with them but they didn’t seem to accompany Barbara anywhere … I was scheduled to play golf two tee times following his but they restructured that so he basically had the course to himself … the secret service were ever present and our elevator in the hotel was once usurped by them … other than that, everything was the same as the other times we’ve stayed there.

By Bob, Journalist

July 5, 2007 5:11 AM | Link to this

gotigers72, if you’re not in bed you should be … but, thanks for the insights … we’re obviously in directional agreement.

Maybe his stuff, regardless of how good … is too predictable.

As I mentioned in another post, I don’t understand the game calling roles … pitcher, coach, catcher … but, I think it’s possible that whoever is setting up the pitching game plan … preparing for the game … is also being too predictable.

Regarding the tipping of pitches, I agree that we have to assume that some (one or more) on the field management staff are responsible for the constant monitoring of both our pitchers and theirs for such evidence.

However, it may be possible to become too familiar with one’s own players and miss what others find relatively obvious.

Kyle’s dilemma is indeed a puzzle that’s interesting to ponder.

So is Bobby’s insistence that Andruw while either Willie or Matt is on the bench.

By Bob, Journalist

July 5, 2007 5:53 AM | Link to this

Coach, while my story was true, it wasn’t intended to continue any political discussion … I just found Snowball’s Chance disgusting and your rant somewhat disturbing, to be humorous, including the insurance reference … I knew where you were coming from … just thought you might enjoy the story.

The humor being related to the “how” and not the “what” of what you said.

Neither is it now my intent to discuss politics or President Bush … like with the Braves, we’re on the outside looking in both sides, and the Media, are agenda motivated and they tell us what they want us to know or believe.

Hope you enjoyed the 4th!

By Ron Roberts

July 5, 2007 6:47 AM | Link to this

Couldn’t watch the game last night. So somebody answer me this…

1. Why did Chuck James only go 5 innings with 77 pitches-thrown?

Aside from not working deep into games, it’s hard to fathom why people gripe about Chuck James’ and his impact on the rotation. By my count, 6 of his last 8 starts were either pretty decent or very good, though you can’t count ‘em as quality starts because ya gotta go 6 innings pitched to notch a QS.

Rupert… sorry bud, but somebody should revoke your “comment on the Braves” privileges, my friend. You’re dead wrong when you say the Braves should get rid of Paronto and Villareal. Somebody else handled Paranto’s finer points, and how do you show cause for concern with Villareal when he sports a 3.94 ERA?

Maybe it’s just because we’re getting our @sses handed to us whenever you see him pitching, but the damage’s done before he toes the rubber, dude. He’s pitched in 29 games for us, has a 3.94 ERA and yet we’re 4-25 in those games. It ain’t him, dude.

By Bob, Journalist

July 5, 2007 7:16 AM | Link to this

Got to make coffee but Yunel looked good last night, regardless of being picked off/caught stealing.

However, it looks like Mendosa is a reasonable expectation for Andruw, regardless of the homerun … methinks he could be arrested for poor impersonation of a hitter … he should be benched or hit no higher than 8th in the order against lefties, benched against righties.

Wickman was a bit disappointing, in spite of the Ks, it seemed like too many hittable pitches that weren’t hit … but we won.

By John Tucker

July 5, 2007 7:22 AM | Link to this

Trade Andruw now or at least bat him 8th and play him only twice per week.

Play WIllie Harris, Salty and Escobar every day.

Get the new owners to spend enough to acquire 2 proven starters via trade.

Otherwise, plan to spoend October at home.

John Tucker

By Spinelli

July 5, 2007 7:30 AM | Link to this

Perhaps Davies’ problem is between the ears. He should go see the sports psych. that Smoltz used years ago. It helped Smolts out quit a bit. Then send Davies down until rosters expand in Sept. He has one more option left. might as well use it he’s not helping any matters in the bigs. JS should also bring Reyes up. He shouldn’t worry about options. It is time to win and if Reyes is as goog as advertised then there is no need to send him back down.

By Ron Roberts

July 5, 2007 7:35 AM | Link to this

Good news, fans… Andruw is improving.

His last 10 games….

.214 BA 3 HRs 6 RsBI

And in four July games, so far….

.235 BA 1 HR 1 RBI

Now, after enjoying a good chuckle over that… imagine being Scott Boras and having that in his arsenal today… ‘cause that’s gonna be his positive spin on Andruw right now.

All kidding aside, though, he is getting better. Sad that .214 is better, but it is an improvement over his June average of .143 overall. In fact, if he hadn’t had four hits in the last four games of that month, the average would have been .126 for the month of July. Whew. Tragically awful.

So now he’s on an 8-game hitting streak. Didya notice that? Yeah, me either!

In his 8-game hitting streak, he’s still only hitting .229 with 3 HRs and 6 RsBI. It’s closer, anyhow, to what we’d been getting from Andruw, right? Mediocre-to-low average with power and runs batted in.

So I guess there’s some reason for optimism with him, right?

By Will

July 5, 2007 8:21 AM | Link to this

In all seriousness can Bob Wickman get a save with a 1-2-3 inning?? I am really starting to wonder. If the Braves somehow make the playoffs i am going to leave the room if he comes in to save a game. He is a joke. Very impressed to see Andruw Jones hit a homer and get the golden sombrero in the same game. that is wonderful!!

By NS from Kennesaw

July 5, 2007 8:22 AM | Link to this

Lets talk about next season when the calendar is 2008, we are just half way in to 2007 and our Braves is still in the hunt. So, lets talk about the “NOW” things. Here are my opinions

1. Move AJ to the 8th spot or better yet, trade him (and some AAAA to be named) for a good pitcher.

2. If JS and BC still want to hold on to AJ, please tell him to swing for a hit. Do not have to make a homerun swing everytime. Or perhaps, for every strike out he gets on the day he plays, he will be sitting out that many games that follow.

3. Davies does not belong in the major right now. Though he has good stuff but he rarely executes it during game time. He has been given more than enough opportunities - but he consistently blew it. So, please send him down or trade him (perhaps along with AJ) for a better quality starter.

4. Do not trade Escobar, Salty and Harris. They are play good now, and they’ve earn themselves a starter spot going forward.

Last but now least, it’s only half way and in the NL East, no one is going anywhere, so make necessary adjust ments at pitching staff and GO BRAVES !!!

By Will

July 5, 2007 8:23 AM | Link to this

In all seriousness can Bob Wickman get a save with a 1-2-3 inning?? I am really starting to wonder. If the Braves somehow make the playoffs i am going to leave the room if he comes in to save a game. He is a joke. Very impressed to see Andruw Jones hit a homer and get the golden sombrero in the same game. that is wonderful!!

By journalist jimmy smith

July 5, 2007 8:44 AM | Link to this

four strikeouts. four men left on base. a lone homerun hit to left. the dodgers pitcher should be fined for giving andruw a pitch andruw could pull. yesterday’s at-bats reinforce that all the bad habits are still in place and andruw has no business batting cleanup. still, it was a win and a win is better than a loss. why did grady little pitch to chipper? somewhere in los angeles a blogger is typing these words - grady, your an idiot. that should tell grady something!

By ChampDawg

July 5, 2007 9:00 AM | Link to this

Booby Cox is a hard-headed dumb-@$$ for continuing to bat AJones in the cleanup spot and he has got to stop this platooning nonsense and get Escobar, Harris, and Salty in the lineup every game. Move Andruw to 7th or 8th or sit his @$$ on the bench.

By Lew

July 5, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this

Where’s all the love for Andruw? Don’t y’all realize he’s heating up? He’s now reached lukewarm and if he continues in this new direction, I predict tepid in his near future. Four K’s and a HR beats hell out of 5 K’s, doesn’t it?

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this

jb, on a previous blog you wrote the following:

There is absolutely no reason to have to put up with a lot of strike outs for power.

Ruth, Gehrig, Williams, Mays, Aaron, and Barry Bonds all hit for power and did not strike out much. I think Bonds is to only one I listed to strike out over 100 times in a season and that was just once.

We as fans and baseball execs. put up with the high strike outs in a power hitter. Reggie Jackson made it o.k. to strike out so much while hitting home runs. Aaron, Ruth, Gehrig, and Williams would be ashamed to strike out that many times in a season. When Bobby Bonds set the strike out record in the 60’s he was embarrassed. It’s too bad a player doesn’t have to pay back a portion of his salary every time he strikes out over 100 times a season.

I would not want an Adam Dunn, a Dan Uggla, or other homer vs. wiff players in my line up. Andruw Jones at least can make some plays with the glove to possibly overlook some strike outs, but he should probably be batting 8th right now. In the AL, he would probably bat 9th.

To make matters worse, some GM’s and managers are putting up with high strike out totals from non power hitters (i.e. Orr and Woodward.)

For most players, strikeouts come with power. If a player takes a cut quick and hard enough to hit the ball hard enough to stay in the big leagues, he’s going to get his share of strikeouts.

Ruth, Gehrig, Williams, Mays, Aaron, Bonds, all those guys are either exceptions (because they had impeccable hand-eye coordination) or they played in a different era where defenses didn’t make as many plays and they could get on base easily simply by making contact or both. And actually Babe Ruth struck out a lot for his era.

Strikeouts are bad because they are outs. In some situations strikeouts are going to be worse, in some situations they are going to be better and in some situations it’s not going to matter how you make an out. I would rather have a player who only makes an out 5 out of 10 times with 4 strikeouts than a player who makes an out 4 out of 10 times with 1 strikeout.

And it’s not just about power. If you strikeout a lot and hit for power, that still may not be a good thing, necessarily. It’s about getting on base and hitting for power.

This is why Adam Dunn, Dan Uggla, and Andruw Jones (except for this season) have been very productive players. All of these players have been able to get on base at a good rate (at the very least relative to their positions) and have hit for power.

Yes, strikeouts are embarrassing but actually a high strikeout total shouldn’t embarrass a player if he’s still, yes, avoiding outs/getting on base at a good rate and hitting for power.

I’d be much more embarrassed if I hit like Corey Patterson, Jason Kendall or Juan Pierre (guys that don’t strikeout much) than I would if I hit like Adam Dunn, Ryan Howard, Dan Uggla or Grady Sizemore (guys that do strikeout much).

Again, how often a player makes out and what he does in between outs is much more important than how he makes outs.

By Efrim

July 5, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

Lets beat Brad Penny tonight and then take 2 out of 3 from the Padres. That will put us at 47-42. Hopefully, Smoltz shoulder will hold up. Is Jo Jo Reyes starting Saturday? That suprises me a little bit, but if there are no other options, then that is just the way it is.

By Braveheart

July 5, 2007 9:48 AM | Link to this

METS LOSE! AGAIN! LOS BRAVOS WIN!

MAGIC NUMBER IS 82!

To win 100 games, we would have to go 56-21, not likely.

To win 95 games, we would have to go 51-26, not very likely.

To win 90 games, we would have to go 46-31, not very likely unless we pull off another 24-12 stretch and unless we get a .500 record the rest of the way from the #4 and #5 starters.

To win 85 games, we would have to go 41-36, very possible.

To win 81 games, we would have to go 37-40, if we continue on our 20-29 clip, we would be lucky to finish that high.

To win 79 games like we won last year, we would have to go 35-42, hopefully it will not come to that.

We need Smoltz to take this time off and get back to being Smoltz.

We have 77 games left. If healthy, Smoltz and Hudson need to start about 33 of those games. If we win 66% of those games, we will be 66-52. If we win 60% of James 15 starts for the rest of the season, we should then be 75-58. ALL WE WILL NEED THEN IS FOR FREAKING DAVIES AND CARLYLE TO WIN 50% OF THEIR STARTS FOR US TO WIN 90 GAMES.

I predicted before the season both the Mets and the Braves each looked like 85-90 win teams and the first team to 90 wins would take the division. Looks like it is shaping up that way exactly.

The season comes down to Chipper and Smoltz staying somewhat healthy and getting mediocre .500 performances from #4 and #5. Escobar stepping up however will help lessen the blow if Chipper should get hurt again. Woodward and Orr need to be sent out of town at the break. The bench should be Escobar, Thorman, Pena, Diaz or Willie, Prado.

The Braves are 11-7 in Hudson’s starts, 10-8 in James starts, 11-6 in Smoltz starts, 4-3 in Carlyle’s starts. That is a combined 36-24, a 60% percentage in their starts.

6-9 in Davies starts, 1-4 in Redman’s starts, 1-2 in Larew’s starts, 0-2 in Cormier’s starts. That makes the Braves a combined 8-17 in the starts of the Craptastic Four.

We don’t so much need to make a big time trade where we lose valuable prospects. We just need a pitcher who would have gone 13-12 in those 25 starts of the Craptastic Four. .500 is all we ask out of our #4 and #5. If we had just merely gone .500 in the starts of the Craptastic Four, we would be 49-36 right now, in first place, 2 games ahead of the Mets, with a magic number of 77.

Why then should we even make a trade? If JoJo, Harrison, and Dan Smith are worth us drooling over, then they should be able to manage to go .500 the rest of the way for us right? Don’t lose any positional or pitching prospects in return for getting an overpaid vet who might not provide us any more wins than the kids we got in the minors. .500 is all we ask. Surely, JoJo, Dan Smith, or Harrison could give that to us - let’s hope they are not as mentally weak as Davies.

Is Davies “stuff” all that great anyway? His mental stuff ain’t for sure but is it really all mental? Wouldn’t a headcase manage an ERA under 5 while battling with the crap in his head? I guess it is clear that Oliver Perez’ problems were all mental, but does anyone really think Davies has Oliver Perez type stuff? I certainly don’t. And even if his problems were mental, does anyone have faith that McDowell is the man to fix that? I certainly don’t. Not even the great Saint Leo could manage to solve the mystery wrapped in an enigma wrapped inside a riddle that is Kyle Davies.

Maybe Peterson would figure it out - but I don’t see Kyle ever being able to handle the bright lights, big city of NYC, so I think Davies is beyond even being helped by Peterson.

Looks like the Mets are so desperate right now they just called up their second pitching coach - Sandy Alomar, Jr. - to help guide their sinking pitching staff.

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

While Andruw’s a hot subject on the blog, there are a few people I’ve seen talk about that Andruw didn’t tap into his potential in his career. They argue Andruw could have been an elite hitter instead of merely an above average hitter. (I’m not talking about this year, when he’s been a bad hitter, obviously.)

I’m not sure where they see this untapped potential that Andruw has yet to show. I just don’t get looking at what Andruw doesn’t do and playing the what-if game if you aren’t going to do that with every other player.

I think I’ve seen people post that he should be the player that hit two homers in the 1996 World Series. Well, hasn’t he? I mean what did that game really tell us? All it really told us was that Andruw possibly had great power, and he’s shown that so far in his career. But it didn’t tell us much about any of his other skills—whether he was going to hit .300+ AVG/.400+ OBP/.500+ SLG (as elite hitters do) or .260/.340/.500 (as he’s done).

It may sound like I’m the world’s biggest Andruw apologist, but I’m honestly not. It’s just kind of silly to me to say he hasn’t lived up to his potential (until this season).

By Ron Roberts

July 5, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

Braveheart… imagine if we’d used Oscar Villareal as a starter, with his ability to post a 3.94 ERA so far this season, despite our going 4-25 in his 29 appearances.

By Daybed Wagmoe

July 5, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this

something that i enjoyed seeing last night was andruw throwing his bat and helmet down very angrily after striking out for the 3rd or 4th (i think it was 4th) time. nice to see that fire in him rather than just a goofy smile as he removes his batting gloves.

By Efrim

July 5, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

Braveheart,

We need another starter to win 90 games. I figure 90 wins will be good enough to win the wild card or the division. If Smoltz shoulder is okay, then we should be in a good place if we can just acquire a #3 starter type. Buerhle, Vasquez, Blanton. Even a #4 starter type would help, Jennings, Morris, Cook. Hopefully JS pulls the trigger on a deal because this team can go far if we have a healthy Smoltz, Hudson and #3 starter…..

By Braveheart

July 5, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

Andruw in his career strikes out every 4.6 at bats. This year, he is striking out every 3.55 at bats. If he had been striking out at his normal rate, he would have 67 strikeouts right now instead of the 87 strikeouts he has right now.

Andruw is hitting .279 when he does not strikeout this year. Those extra 20 strikeouts would be 20 extra at bats - he would have 5 or 6 extra hits in those at bats. He would at least be hitting .213 if he was not striking out so much right now with those extra hits. Not a big difference. But that does not tell the whole story. His batting average would actually be much higher if he was striking out less - because he would be more disciplined, he would not get so off balance when he swings and he would be able to drive the ball more in accordance with how he usually does in his career.

His two best seasons were 2005 and 2000. In 2005, he struck out once every 5.23 at bats. He hit .325 when he was not striking out that year. In 2000, Andruw struck out once every 6.56 at bats. Andruw hit .358 that year when he was not striking out. His batting average when he does not strike out in his career is .336 - 1618 hits in 4802 at bats.

Andruw’s undisciplined approach this year has caused him to frequently be off balance when he swings, causing more strikeouts, more weak fly balls, more weakly hit ground balls, less line drives. That is why his strikeout ratio is extremely high, especially compared to past seasons, and why his batting average in the at bats where he does not strike out is so poor this year. He is not hitting the ball often enough and when he does, he does so rather weakly. That’s kind of obvious though.

By comparison, Chipper strikes out once every 6.36 at bats in his career (similar to Druw in the 2000 season). Chipper has never struck out 100 times. Chipper hits .362 in his career when he does not strike out. Very interesting, that in 2000, the year Andruw struck out at the same clip as Chipper usually does, Andruw had the same kind of overall batting average Chipper usually has and that Andruw’s batting average in 2000 when he was not striking out was similar to Chipper’s overall career batting average when Chipper was not striking out.

Chipper’s career BABIP is .316. Andruw’s career BABIP is .284. Andruw’s BABIP in the 2000 season when he was striking out at a Chipper like clip was .313, strikingly similar to Chipper’s overall career performance.

So, I think Andruw most definitely had the ability to be a disciplined hitter like Chipper. He gave that up however and fell in love with the dinger and became a very undisciplined hitter. 2000 showed he could have been every bit of the hitter Chipper has been. He forsake that in the name of hitting homers, which is a really lazy approach. This caused more needless strikeouts, less liners and less frozen ropes, more lazy fly balls, and more weak ground balls.

By Braveheart

July 5, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, I hear you on Oscar. Pete Orr needs to pass the incriminating pictures on to Oscar for the betterment of the team. I also think Oscar would definitely do an adequate job for 5 or 6 innings every 5 days. Maybe that is the best solution - put Oscar in the rotation and call up Devine to take his bullpen spot.

By TennesseePaul

July 5, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

DOB: Thanks so much for the update on Smoltz. I’m glad to hear he’s going to get checked out. This is only a good thing. Better to know for certain than to wonder and worry.
At least for me anyway. I like Smoltz too much to have this kind of stress and uncertainty.

Braves won last night. In good fashion. I didn’t go to the game. Guess that means I’m not going tonight. Such is life. Now win it tonight guys!

GO BRAVES

By ernesto

July 5, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Does Druw really have 87 strikeouts already? With 4 games left before the break? He could conceivable have 100 by the All-Star game. Amazing. At least he’s hitting over .200, a whopping .201.

On another subject, is Escobar really this good? Or just real hot? Because if it’s the former, it’s hard to see using him as trade bait, if it’s the latter, there’s never been a better time to dangle him. Hope the intelligence is right, no matter which way we decide.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

July 5, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

And the hits keep coming. Excerpts from a couple of stop-and-go bloggers this morning, as the Hillbilly roles his eyes:

Move AJ to the 8th spot or better yet, trade him (and some AAAA to be named) for a good pitcher.

Trade Andruw now or at least bat him 8th and play him only twice per week

By Braveheart

July 5, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

Daybed, agree completely with what you said about Druw showing anger.

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Braveheart,

Adam Dunn has an extremely high strikeout rate yet has been very productive throughout his career (although I’m sure some don’t think so).

Also, Andruw has been a fairly disciplined hitter; his walk rate has been pretty good throughout his career.

It seems possible that Andruw has become a more productive hitter by going for the homerun and accepting strikeouts.

Do you seriously think Andruw worried about more about making contact in 2000 than in any other year? He still struck out 100 times in 161 games, only 29 off his 162-game average for his career.

Finally, do you know the typical player’s BABIP? Andruw’s career BABIP is pretty typical.

Yes, this season something is wrong and Andruw is not hitting the ball as solid and is striking out more. But he’s not Chipper, never has been and never will be. It’s just not who he’s ever been.

By Braveheart

July 5, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Congrats are due to Andruw for scoring the 1000th run of his career last night.

By HP

July 5, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

After doing research, I have found the right guy to replace Andruw Jones for next year. He is a Japanese player named Kosuke F*******, who plays for Chunichi Dragons. He is a outfielder with good power. ESPN reports that there is no posting fee for him. He is been playing baseball in Japanese league for 8 years and is in his prime years of his career. He also bats left. His career stats: .306BA 179HR 599RBI. His 2006 stats are .351BA 31HR 104RBI .438OBP .653SLG .360RISP in 130 games played. He also plays defense well and rarely makes error. I think this is a perfect fit for the braves and he has gotten better and has shown consistency each year. I dont know about his price, but it sound like braves can probally aford it with the money they will have for next year. For more info on his stats here is a link:[http://www.japanesebaseball.com/players/player.jsp?PlayerID=1064]

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this

Braveheart,

Also, isn’t it kind of silly to say Andruw could be Chipper on the basis of what he did in 2000?

A player is never as good as his best and never as bad as his worst.

By Tomahawkin' Again

July 5, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

Ponder the following as we all realize that this isn’t the 2nd coming of the ‘95 Braves, but we’re still amazingly only 3 games out of 1st. Driving into work this morning and Tim Kirkjian is on ESPN radio. He’s asked about the Muts getting absolutely destroyed by the Rockies and he says, “not worried too much about the Mets; Pedro comes back, they’ll get through the injuries and they’ll be fine”. What?!? The Muts are in shambles. Since June 1, they have gone 13-20 (ok, we’re not exactly on fire ourselves, 14-18) and if Glavine, El Duque and Pedro are the answers, then Muts fans, you have one heck of a question you’re stuck with! Andruw: (1) Is this maybe the worst 8 game hitting streak in the history of the game? (2) He goes 1-5 last night w/4 K’s…and he raises his batting average? Good luck Boras in negotiating that. Finally, as a few of the denizens have pointed out this morning, 90 wins is the magic number to win the East. How do we get there? Find someone on God’s green earth to be the #3 starter (Smoltz/Hudson are 1, 2 and James/Carlyle are 4/5…send Kyle down immediately!) and take advantage of the 3 weeks after the all star break. Starting on July 13th, we have a stretch of 20 out of 23 games against teams w/losing records. Run off 15-18 wins and head to Shea on August 7th in the lead. Keep the faith Braves Nation, we can do it!

By Renegator

July 5, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

I know this will never happen because of stubborn Bobby - but the Braves need to send either Orr or Woodward down to minors and bring up another relief pitcher for the stretch after the All-Star break. The bullpen is WAY overused and we will need another fresh air in there if they plan on making any kind of run.

By Jeff R

July 5, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

Remember, Smoltz began to fade last September. The inflamation is not the most welcome news, especially for a pitcher whose stamina may start to flag in a month or two.

Andruw needs to drop in the order. The guy has a long history of being streaky (though this would have to rank as his worst streak ever), but is he just having a rotten run of it, or are his skills really starting to deteriorate?

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

Just in case anyone’s wondering, I doubt we get an update on Smoltz today, since he’ll be flying back, losing three hours, etc. I’d imagine he won’t even see a doctor until Friday. Could be wrong, but that’s what I’m expecting….

HILLBILLY, I agree. It really is mind-numbing. Only think I can think of is, they either don’t read any of the other postings or previous blogs, don’t have a clue about 10/5 and Andruw’s and Boras’ repeated statements of his intentions, or they simply don’t care about the inconvenient realities. It’s like your kid saying, “I want it!” Even if there’s no way he’s getting it, no way you can afford it, it’s just “I want it!”

TENNPAUL, you were probably better off not going. Because then you’d have stayed for the fireworks like all the other 56,000 fans, and the traffic out of Dodger Stadium and on the surrounding streets was NIGHTMARISH afterward. Bowman and I waited more than an hour after the game ended, and it was still clogged on most arteries around the stadium. Was able to go down Sunset and Figueroa and get to my hotel without getting on the 110 or a few other backed-up roads.

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

Shaun Is everything you state on Andruw done in a vacuum? Do you not watch the games? In comparison to his other seasons, he looks terrible 90% of the time when up to bat this season. I mean LOOKS terrible. He would be having a much worse year if not for the terrific on-base years guys like KJ, Chipper, and Renteria are having. They are masking his otherwise terrible year.

How many other 200 hitters get to bat cleanup behind those 3 for very long?

You are so good with the numbers, but dude, open your eyes!

By HP

July 5, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

I dont know what happen to his last name when it was posted last time. His name is Kosuke F*******.

By BG

July 5, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts:

You asked why Chuck James left after 5 innings & 77 pitches: his spot in the order came up in the 6th inning with runners at 1st & 3rd with one out and the Braves leading 3-1. Bobby opted to pinch hit KJ (who walked). Escobar then drove in Diaz with a SF.

So, the answer was offensive strategy. I expect Chuck could have gone another inning, maybe two more, given his pitch count. But, getting more runs and turning it over to the bullpen seemed like a good bet. (And it worked out.)

By Richmond Braves- Stringer

July 5, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, Quit beating a rightfully “dead horse” Oscar V. isn’t going to start, end of discussion.

Reminds one of your obsession with Salty going to the minors, Leave the decision making to the professionals.

By Chase

July 5, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

TO JONTUCKER and NS from Kennesaw and any other clueless person who Keeps Saying “TRADE ANDRUW”

IT IS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN

He is a 10/5 Guy which means he can VETO ANY TRADE! And he and Boras have pretty much said that is what they’d do!

So MOVE ON! Quit tossing out “TRADE ANDRUW” for So and So b/c it is a waste of space on this BLOG!!!!!!

By HP

July 5, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

DOB: What wrong with his last name I’ve been trying to post for last two times. They’ve been showing asteriks. Its not any bad word. Anyway, you can use the link that I provided to look up his name, info, and stats.

By rammerjammer

July 5, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Bobby C. is fed up, and when he’s fed up, that’s it. Kyle will go to Richmond and Reyes will replace him.

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

July 5, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

Anyone want some good summer reading…check out “The Big Bam” by Leigh Montville. It’s an interesting take on the Babe and the era he played.

By Chuck James is solid!! (Formerly Steve-O)

July 5, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

Thats right.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

July 5, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

What a sad, sad state of affairs this has become. A good old fashioned day of July 4th afternoon baseball has been upstaged in the national media by a gawl-darned hot dog contest. Somebody shoot me.

By HP

July 5, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

DOB: Any thoughts about my 11:10 AM post today if the braves will try him to sign him.

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

rammer What can we do to cause Bobby to get “fed up” with Andruw enough to drop him to 7-8 in the order?

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

I have no idea HP. Never heard his name mentioned.

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

HP

The Japanese players name is F as in Frank, U as in Ukelele, K as in Killer, U as in Ukelele, and then “DOME”.

I can understand why the monitors caught that one. They thought you were trying to be a vulgar smart A…

Can you imagine the crap he is going to get when he hits the states with that last name? How is it pronuonced???

Ben Maller has other teams definitely interested in him.

By brent a.

July 5, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Any specific reason given for why Chuck was pulled after 5 innings and 77 pitches?

Thanks!

Also, I spent my July 3rd in Cincy - saw Bonds hit #751, a Brandon Phillips grand slam, and a great fireworks display.

Hope everyone had a great holiday, and snagged a 5-day week-end one direction or the other!

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah,

When I have said Andruw hasn’t been terrible this season?

My post about AJ was about how people have played the what-if game too much with his career. But I specifically pointed out that I’m not talking about this year so much, but his career as a whole.

By Matt the Brave

July 5, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Ok Braves fans, it’s time to own up to some things. Andruw’s not going anywhere until after the season. Boras won’t let him unless the Braves trade him to the Yankees or Muts, or to the West Coast (ie: To a HUGE market with lots of cameras around). Secondly, Villareal and Davies aren’t going to get switched around from started to bullpen. Bobby Cox believes that they are in the right spot. The more likely thing is that the Braves will trade Davies for some minor leauge talent that will develop within the next few years and will give Davies a fresh start somewhere else. Contreras isn’t the savior of the Braves. The Yankees gave up on him and the White Sox used him as a #4 or #5 pitcher most of the time that he’s been with the team. The Braves aren’t going to give up Saltalamachia or Escobar right now because they are the main reasons why our offense is picking up. The Braves don’t need help on offense, we’re scoring between 5 or 6 runs every night within the last two weeks, give or take a few nights. We do need starting pitching, but we aren’t going to sell the farm to win for just one season. JS and Bobby Cox aren’t just looking at this year, but at years down the road.

this text will be bolded Any questions?

By Todd A

July 5, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

So, the answer was offensive strategy. I expect Chuck could have gone another inning, maybe two more, given his pitch count. But, getting more runs and turning it over to the bullpen seemed like a good bet. (And it worked out.)

It was a pretty risky gamble considering all the innings the bullpen has logged recently.As you said,it worked out though.

By David

July 5, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for writing.

Andruw is terrible and he has REALLY hurt this team, he is also keeping more deserving players on the bench (Willie or switch KJ to LF and put Esco at 2B).

How low will Andruw have to go until it becomes and issue? If he comes back after the break and is still hitting like he is, he needs to sit for a week or so. I am telling you, players don’t come out of something like this overnight.

Davies needs to be sent down, bottom line.

This team can’t win without another pitcher and Andruw (or someone else batting much better) He is a HUGE hole in the lineup. 4Ks!! That is terrible

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

Arkansas Hillbilly,

The hot dog thing will go away. Look how big the national spelling bee was a couple of years ago. Soon everyone will realize there’s not much to it.

By HP

July 5, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

DOB: He becomes free agent in August 2007. He played in World Baseball Classic. He wants to play in the Major League Baseball. His name is mentioned in article written by ESPN Writer Jerry Crasnick on the front page of ESPN baseball page.

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

Shaun

Just reading what you posted:

Also, Andruw has been a fairly disciplined hitter; his walk rate has been pretty good throughout his career.

It seems possible that Andruw has become a more productive hitter by going for the homerun and accepting strikeouts.

This last part does not talk about historically, but it just sounded like you were stating he was more productive, when he indeed is MUCH less productive.

If I have not read between the lines correctly, I apologize.

By Braveheart

July 5, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

Shaun, do I think he tried to make more contact in 2000? NO! I think he was just a much more disciplined hitter with a balanced approach when he came to the plate. He stayed within himself.

I compare this all the time to the Mike Tyson thing. When Tyson was being trained by Cus, Atlas, and Rooney, he was a boxer and not the puncher he later became. He used combinations, ducked, bobbed, weaved, and then destroyed people with his power and relentlessness.

After he left that training discipline to go with Don King, he fell in love with his aura and became an undisciplined puncher (no longer a boxer) who tried to merely intimidate people with his aura and his power and would just do lazy uppercuts all day trying to end the fight fast instead of boxing.

Andruw is Mike Tyson as a performer - if the uppercut ain’t landing, what good is he? When they were balanced boxers and balanced hitters, much, much different results. Andruw was a boxer in 2000. Since he has been merely a puncher.

Tyson actually got away with it for a while just like Andruw. Then Tyson met Buster Douglas.

This 2007 season is Andruw’s Buster Douglas. Right now, Andruw is crawling around the floor in Tokyo, groggy, disoriented, slapping aimlessly around at the floor trying to find his mouthpiece.

Because of his undisciplined approach, Tyson was never the same after age 30. What of Andruw?

Tyson and Druw were boy wonders in their late teens and early twenties, Tyson was washed up at 30, will Druw be as well?

Andruw leads a much better off the field life from what I can tell, so I think Andruw will have a much better chance of singing a redemption song and having a better third act to his career than Tyson has had.

Shaun, don’t tell me that you think Andruw should have a BABIP typical that of the average player in the league? am fully aware of that BABIP typicality since you told me a few months ago and since I started researching that stuff myself.

Do you know what the average player is being paid? Certainly, not $15 mil to put up the “typical” performance of the average MLBer. Future HOFers don’t gain induction by being merely “typical.”

Do I think it is silly to compare him to what he did at his best in 2000? Not at all. That was a young player finally coming into his own, into what he was supposed to be.

The 100 strikeout thing you pointed to in the 2000 season was a very bad use of stats by you as well, Shaun. In that season, he had 656 at bats, more than any other year in his career. He struck out once every 6.56 at bats, a Chipper like rate, which is much better than his typical strikeout rate per at bat. Don’t scold people for the misuse of stats all the time and then do the very same thing yourself when convenient for you. He usually has about 100 less at bats a season now than he did back then, so his strikeout totals should not be significantly higher. Only 29 more times was what you said? You neglected to mention about 100 less at bats when you said that. Also, 29 more strikeouts in 100 less at bats ain’t a helluva good job in out avoidance the last time I checked.

I admire that you are a fan of Andruw and keep sticking up for him. But actually I think you are less of a fan than most of us because we expect more out of him as a true fan would. You are an enabler to him.

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

Brent A, no specific reason, other than he and Cox both said he didn’t have great stuff last night, and Braves opted to pinch-hit for him in the sixth, when they had runners on the corners with one out and a 3-1 lead (Kelly Johnson walked as pinch-hitter, and Escobar followed with a sac fly that wasn’t far from dropping for two or three RBIs. If Chuck hits there instead of Kelly, pretty good chance for a DP).

By ShawnD

July 5, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

HP

There’s no chance he’ll sign with us. Too many other players in the market. But there is a chance he can help in other ways. Burning Brave covered just this yesterday (It’s on Blogspot).

By Amber

July 5, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Every time I see the words “Renteria” and “trade” in the same sentence, my head hurts. You can’t be serious! From the beginning of last season, he has been the single best, most consistent player on the team. Why the #&$@ would we hand him over to someone else for anyone?

By David-ATL14

July 5, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

DOB, Joey Devine has been recalled again, Any word on the corresponding roster move?

Nice blunt assessment from the Richmond Stringer about various blog “dead horses”

By Efrim

July 5, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

F*******. He is a CF that will probably command 4 years and 32 million. Braves won’t be able to afford him.

Sure would be nice to get a win tonight.

DOB,

Any thoughts on Saturday’s starter? Is it going to be Jo Jo?

By Wayne in Utah

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

Amber Agreed on Edgar. One of our stud SS’s will probably be dealt though, and if not Escobar by the end of July, then either Yunel or Edgar next winter for some OF or pitching help.

Would you not agree that over the winter, one must go, unless we plan to move Escobar to 2b or keep him as Chippers backup.

By BravesFanInRockies

July 5, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

If the rumor about Reyes being called up is true, my guess is it’s not an option-burner but to give him a genuine chance to stay in the rotation for the remainder of the season.

Davies has an option remaining (correct?) and could be shipped out. Or if not, DFA in the hopes of getting somebody else’s problem in return.

By Todd A

July 5, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

Amber Escobar can play short.Assuming KJ isn’t in Bobby’s dog house,he’ll be back at 2b next year.This makes Edgar expendable with his contract.We need pitching.Maybe he could bring bring us a pretty decent arm via trade.

By Wild Horse Andruw

July 5, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Childhood living is easy to do; The things you wanted I bought them for you; Graceless lady you know who I am; You know I cant let you slide through my hands; Wild horses couldnt drag me away; Wild, wild horses, couldnt drag me away; I watched you suffer a dull aching pain; Now you decided to show me the same; No sweeping exits or offstage lines; Could make me feel bitter or treat you unkind; Wild horses couldnt drag me away; Wild, wild horses, couldnt drag me away; I know I dreamed you a sin and a lie; I have my freedom but I dont have much time; Faith has been broken, tears must be cried; Lets do some living after we die; Wild horses couldnt drag me away; Wild, wild horses, well ride them some day; Wild horses couldnt drag me away; Wild, wild horses, well ride them some day

By SomeYahoo

July 5, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Ahh, a sublime win. Those fireworks last night at Dodger Stadium were pretty spectacular. As an Atlanta guy living in LA, it was my first trip to Dodger Stadium and first time seeing the Boys outside of the Ted. Surreal. It’s a great feeling to be booed by a whole section after your all-star, .200 hitting CFer puts one out and you stand up and wave your Braves cap at them. Good times.

Huddy has a good chance to carve up that Dodger lineup tonight. Talk about dejected fans. Everybody in our section would groan every time they got someone on base because they knew they’d be standing in the same place when the inning was over.

Wickman should be listed alongside smoking and fried foods as a serious threat to heart health.

By DAP

July 5, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

HP i read your post with interest and looked at the guys profile. i couldnt find which outfield position he played over there. im assumming center? its wierd you posted this because i was just thinking yesterday watching the dodgers that what the braves need is a japaneese player. i think that would be cool, and this guy looks awesome.

however, i saw on that site that he wont be a free agent for awhile, and i dont know what we would have to give the dragons for this guy. do the braves even pay any attention to japaneese players? have we ever had one? hm…

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

I’m as disappointed as everyone else in Andruw. My point was that he was never an elite hitter to begin with. If we thought he could be that, we were wrong.

My point about 100 K in 2000 was not that he struck out just as much as he did every other year. It was that he still struck out a lot, so I doubt he was concentrating more on contact that year than any other year.

Also, you missed the point about strikeouts an out avoidance. Obviously strikeouts are bad because they’re outs. But a lot of strikeouts doesn’t necessarily equal you are bad at avoiding outs.

Strikeouts are certainly hurting Andruw, but his lack of hits are hurting him worse—his .227 BABIP.

I’m pretty sure something is off (given the high strikeout total combined with his low BABIP) but I’m also sure luck is playing a role in Andruw’s bad season.

Just looked up Andruw’s line-drive percentage and guess what…it’s higher than it was in 2004 or 2005. That respectable line-drive percentage combined with the low BABIP seems to indicate there is definitely some degree of bad luck involved in Andruw’s bad season.

Now I’m not suggesting that it’s more his mechanics or mental state or an injury more than bad luck or vice versa. I’m just saying that it seems bad luck is playing a significant role.

By ElbravoX-- EbX

July 5, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

I got stuck on that nightmare of traffic jams last night. Got home to Seal Beach almost two hours after the game was over. A win is a win though. I got notes on all games and to some to my surprise, the Braves are a good team playing average. One more starting pitcher, a favorable schedule and we can win the East, NOT the wild card. The Mets are a mess, easier than the WC!

By Dwayne

July 5, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

If we have to make a trade I hope its not Escobar. He reminds me of a young Alphonso Soriano. He is a five-tool player and I just can’t see giving up that kind of talent. Salty is a bright star, but I think McCann has showed the past week or so that his early season struggles will not be a consistant thing.

By DAP

July 5, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

shaun are you kidding me? you spent the whole first month or more of andruw’s season long slump defending him and saying there was nothing wrong with his approach or his swing. you stuck by this stance for awhile even after pendlton said he was messed up, the announcers started talking about how messed up, and pretty much everyone on this blog disagreed with you.

you havent said it recently, because you finally realized how wrong you were, but you have said ALOT on this blog this season that andruw wasn’t terrible.

By Dwayne

July 5, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

If we have to make a trade I hope its not Escobar. He reminds me of a young Alphonso Soriano. He is a five-tool player and I just can’t see giving up that kind of talent. Salty is a bright star, but I think McCann has showed the past week or so that his early season struggles will not be a consistant thing.

By HP

July 5, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Efrim: How can the Braves not aford him? Braves will save couple millions dollars when Andruw Jones leaves in the off-season. Look at his 2007 stats: In 71Games .292BA 13HR 45RBI .434OBP .531SLG .305RISP. Braves can afford 8-10 million for 4 years for this guy. I would rather pay that money on him than Mike Cameron, who is likely going to get about same type of money. If we can’t afford that money, then we will likely have to promote one of minor league outfielder to start next year.

By JasonInMaine

July 5, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

David-ATL14,

Where did you hear that Devine is being called up again…on the radio?

Regards,

Jason

By HP

July 5, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

I meant to say 8-10 million annualy for 4 years.

By Braveheart

July 5, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Fair enough Shaun. Strikeouts are not usually the problem. The problem is the bad mechanical approach and more importantly the poor mental approach which cause the poor mechanics. Strikeouts, like lazy pop ups, fly balls, and grounders are the symptoms of a faulty mechanical and mental approach. The approach is the problem, not the results. The results are just symptoms.

Where did you get the stats for line drive percentage and how do they determine that anyway? And who is the one in charge of the quantification and qualification of the line drives?

By N8.....I suck.

July 5, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB

You think the Yankees would trade AROD for Orr?

Sorry for the stupid question. I’m just trying to fit in. I’m done “sucking”, I just wanna be a homer.

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

DAP,

I said Andruw’s season wasn’t terrible earlier when he was drawing walks at an extremely high rate. At least he was getting on base and helping the team that way. Now he’s struggling to do that.

I assumed he would turn it around, which I would argue was a reasonable assumption. It just didn’t happen so now I have to say I was wrong.

I still think he will eventually turn it around somewhat. I just think putting up numbers that resemble normal AJ numbers is now going to be extremely difficult for him, if not impossible.

By rammerjammer

July 5, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah,

I keep thinking that Bobby C. will come out of the A-S break with Andruw elsewhere in the lineup. He just doesn’t want to do it now. If he doesn’t do it after the break, we’ll have to consider it a lost cause.

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

N8 You don’t have to be stoopid to not suck!

By ernesto

July 5, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

N8, come on now, you’re not even close to done sucking.

Give yourself a break, I’m sure you’ll be sucking at an advanced level for the forseeable future.

Sorry, man, couldn’t resist.

By FLBRAVESFAN

July 5, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

Whatever alphabet soup you want to use - RISP, BABIP, the answer is the same - A Jones sucks and we will be a much better team in ‘08 using that enormous amount of money he is making to either bring in a stud pitcher or two guys who want to run out ground balls and listen to a batting coach.

By bravefansince54

July 5, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

DOB scoffed at Josh’s suggestion of a Renteria for Maddox. I am not picking a fight with DOB, but, honestly, that makes a lot more sense than getting Adam Dunn, for c-sakes! (and that didn’t rate a comment!)

Let’s get real. We don’t have a lot of tradeables for a good starter. (Of course, Salty and Escobar are not tradeable, did I have to say it?)

So who for who? I am not in a panic, because I like this team, either for this year or next. Sometimes the best trade is the one you don’t make. We have three guys that need to go, the vote is in on Davies, and he didn’t make the cut. Orr and Woodward are dead wood, and useful for teams that need to fit holes. Everybody else can play for this team (goodbye Andruw, we can’t afford you, and you need a change of scenery to regroup, and that includes Thorman, who, while not ready, has a future. Peace

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

The hardballtimes.com:

Line Drive Percentage. Baseball Info Solutions tracks the trajectory of each batted ball and categorizes it as a groundball, fly ball or line drive. LD% is the percent of batted balls that are line drives. Line drives are not necessarily the hardest hit balls, but they do fall for a hit around 75% of the time.

Here’s AJ’s page: http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/stats/players/index.php?playerId=96&firstName=Andruw&lastName=Jones

Actually, after farther review Andruw’s line-drive percentage ranks near the bottom, as it did in 2004 and 2005, although this year it ranks a little higher.

But he’s not hitting as many groundballs and he’s hitting a little more fly balls.

http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=96&position=OF

By Truancy Intervention Project

July 5, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

The local truancy officers have made a report on KC. Does anyone know where to find him? The truancy officers are concerned with the amount of hookey he has been playing from the blog.

By BT

July 5, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

I certainly agreed with your recent approach concerning Andrew (leave em on base) Jones. I did take exception to the fact that you implied that AJ was using any mental approach at all when batting. All I see is reaction and poor reaction at that.

By Wayne in Utah

July 5, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Shaun: I don’t need graphs to tell me what’s wrong with Andruw. It’s a case of stubborned pride.

By BT

July 5, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

In my opinion the only pertinent stat on AJ is whether is helping this team offensively. I this his offense is offensive!

By TennesseePaul

July 5, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

Sheesh. Put it that way DOB and I’m glad I stayed in the LB. Too many cops out on 7/4 anyways. Besides, the Queen Mary puts on one helluva fireworks show. The Armada responded with the game theme: “Worst Fire Works Show Ever”. It was a guy with a couple of bottle rockets. Darrell Evans seems to have a good time with the team during all these events. At least they have a sense of humor.

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

bravefansince54,

I don’t see the Braves getting Adam Dunn. They have decent, cheap options at left and first so there is no need to trade talent for Dunn.

Someone said earlier they wouldn’t want Dunn because he strikes out more than Andruw. But he hasn’t made outs at nearly the same rate as Andruw (.349 OBP for Dunn).

By brent a.

July 5, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for the response at 12:09.

Pete Van Wieren speculated on the radio at the time that Cox might want to bring back Chuck and let him pitch on Sunday, in lieu of Davies.

But, the pinch-hit made the most sense, as we had a chance to blow the game open at that point.

Thanks!

By N8 the Homer

July 5, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN….

Kyle Davies is gonna be fine.

Chuck James is NOW an innings eater.

Andruw is putting on a hitting clinic for kids this off-season. After he signs a long term deal to STAY in Atlanta.

Smoltz will be “fine”.

Buddy is a late bloomer.

Wickman likes to have a couple guys on base just so he can “feel alive out there”.

Escobar and Salty need to both be traded for Mark Buehrle, only to watch him leave after this year.

Thorman will grow into his roll.

Francoeur’s gonna lead the league in walks next year.

Chipper won’t miss another game this year. He’s the NEW Iron Man in town.

Look out next year, when we get BOTH Hampton and Gonzalez back from major surgeries. It’s gonna be like adding 2 TOP TIER free agents to our staff, and their salary is ALREADY built in, so it won’t cost us an extra penny! WOW. That is Aaaaawesome!

And finally Bobby will push all the right buttons, leading this team to a 95 win season, while BLOWING past the horrible, don’t have any pitching, don’t have owners that will fix their problems, Mets!

Man you guys are right. The negativity I’ve shown in the past, has gotta go. It feels SO MUCH BETTER to convince myself that this is a good team that is going places.

Whew! What a load off my shoulders. I can’t wait for the first HOMERS CLUB meeting. I hear you get your very own pair of personalized Rose Colored Glasses to wear while viewing Braves games, reading about them in the newspapers, watching highlights, and most importantly….while blogging.

Gee Dad….Isn’t life SWELL?

Can’t wait for the baseball contest tonight. Who cares if Brad Penny is literally unbeatable at home? We’ve got Hudson going, and Andruw is starting to “heat up”.

I predict a Braves victory of the 17-0 variety. Why?

Because I’m N8!

N8 the Homer.

Smiles and hugs for everybody.

By David-ATL14

July 5, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

Jason, it was posted on an internet blog, Person that posted is always 100% correct. He was called up last night, is in LA and will be added to the 25 man roster before today’s game.

By Ryan

July 5, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Devine called up !!!

DOB — Do you know why? Smoltz to the DL??

By Renegator

July 5, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

I don’t like N8 the Homer - I like realistic N8. Can he come out and play?

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah,

I have no idea why Andruw’s been so bad. I have a hard time believing he’s more stubborn or prideful now than he was any other year, so I doubt it’s that.

I think it’s a combination of a lot of things—bad habits from trying to change his approach, bad luck, tough schedule/pitching so far, and just a flukiness that can’t be explained.

I think sometimes we want reasons but sometimes players do have fluke seasons that are really difficult if not impossible to explain. Look at Bret Boone in 2001 or Paul Konerko in 2003, Brady Anderson in 1996, you can go on and on. It’s extremely rare for a 30-year-old who seems to be in good shape and not injured to be this bad for this much of a season but it’s not unheard of for flukes to happen. And they are hard to fathom, which is why they are flukes.

I think it’s silly to speculate on Andruw’s stubbornness or mental state or anything like that without being around him every day.

By JasonInMaine

July 5, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

David-ATL14,

Thanks! Which Internet blog…I would like to follow it.

Regards,

Jason

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

N8, I don’t quite get it. Why are you torturing yourself so much with this team? They are what they are. If that doesn’t interest you, or turns you off, or makes you so negative, then why not just turn the page, come back to them next year or move on? I’m not asking you to be pollyanna, but you’ve turned into the biggest cynic on the blog. You pick apart every move, every game, and point to nothing but the negatives, and why they’re doomed and have no money to spend, etc.

Are you so masochistic that you like to follow a team that, to you, seems so hopeless? Just curious.

I mean, they’re not nearly as bad as you say, but I’m just curious why, if you feel they are, you still stay on the blog and comment on them so much.

By Coach ( CENSORSHIP STINKS)

July 5, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

It would seem that David O’Brien or the AJC are intent on killing this blog. Keep censoring , I’ll stop blogging.

By All Spin Zone

July 5, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Maybe Devine is being called up so someone already in the pen (Oscar V maybe) can make Smoltz’ next start. The bullpen is worn out right now and a fresh arm can’t hurt.

The Braves can actually afford to run a man short with position players because of Escobar’s flexibility. Maybe the Braves use one of Pete Orr’s options and send him out? Orr isn’t even being used often as a bat off the bench these days.

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Nobody seems to know who’s going down to make room for Devine yet, if he’s indeed up. Could be up for protection, could be someone (not Smoltz) is going on DL … lots of speculation, including they could bring back Chuck on short rest to pitch Sunday instead of Davies, in which case Devine could be here to send down Davies and have another arm in the ‘pen. Just don’t know yet.

Also don’t know what they’re doing yet Saturday.

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

I will guarantee right now Smoltz goes on the DL regardless of what is wrong with his shoulder…

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Are we calling up Devine so he can start games? If the answer is yes, then why not put Ledezma in the rotation for now? Isn’t that part of the reason why we got him DOB? Personally I’d rather see what he could do as a starter over Devine…

By rammerjammer

July 5, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

One thing for sure…Devine has no more to learn at AA. In 35 innings, 51 Ks and only 13 walks. ERA, 2.06. Wowser.

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

“lots of speculation, including they could bring back Chuck on short rest to pitch Sunday instead of Davies, in which case Devine could be here to send down Davies and have another arm in the ‘pen. Just don’t know yet.”

That would be welcome news…

By All Spin Zone

July 5, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Chucks starts are always short starts so I suppose short rest isn’t a problem or him.

:o)

By MBATL

July 5, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I agree it’s tough to guess what’s in AJ’s mind while he’s at the plate. However, back in late May, when Bobby moved AJ down to 5th/6th in the order, AJ seemed to respond… he had a lot of good swings, went to right field more than a few times.

From May 22 to June 4, AJ hit .298/.370/.596, and struck out just 6 times in 47 ABs. He raised is BA from .212 to .232.

I don’t have the “hitting charts” but I watched most of those games - and I know that he was going with a lot of pitches rather than pulling everything.

I’m not saying it was because he was hitting lower in the order most of those games … I don’t know why it was. But I do know that he has that kind of game in his repertoire, but either won’t or can’t use it these days.

I know you get accused of “not watching the games.” I assume that you do watch a lot of them… if so, you can surely see that, mechanically, there is almost no hope of him being successful with the bailing-out, over-the-top, pull-everything swing he’s using.

I’m not saying AJ’s problems are “terminal.” I maintain hope (and a little bit of confidence) that he’ll pull out of them… but I sure don’t think they’re a fluke. They’re due to the fact that he’s taking terrible swings, trying to pull balls that can’t be pulled with any rate of success.

By Renegator

July 5, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Hopefully Orr or Davies is going down. Orr never sees ABs and Davies just flat sucks.

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Here’s something from an espn chat earlier today:

Chris (Ottawa, ON): What can we expect from Andruw Jones the rest of the way? He can’t hit .200 forever, can he?

SportsNation Tristan H. Cockcroft: I’m not entirely convinced he’s 100 percent healthy. What if his back is a bigger problem than we realize, and he’s not talking it up so as to not hurt his market value as a free agent? I just can’t believe Andruw Jones has fallen this far off the table for no reason whatsoever. Hardly an automatic, I’d say. Risk/reward, and I’d say .250 batting average, 15 homers is a safe projection.

Interesting thought—maybe Andruw is having some injury problems he’s not telling anyone about. He has had some funny grimaces at the plate this season, I’ve noticed. Add something else to the possibilities and speculation. I think this is more likely than stubbornness, etc.

By Braveheart

July 5, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Look at Bret Boone in 2001 or Paul Konerko in 2003, Brady Anderson in 1996

Are you really confused about how those three got really good for only one season? Boone & Brady are way too obvious to even say. It may have something to do with the thing they started testing for in 2003. What year was Konerko’s bad year again? Oh yeah, 2003. That was before he realized they did not test for it all, he just had to be more clever. Giambi and his “glands” learned the same thing the next year.

I would not compare Andruw’s unusual season to Boone, Brady, or Konerko because their flukiness reasons are too obvious.

I would compare Andruw hitting the wall right now to Frank Thomas hitting the wall at the age of 30 in 1998. The Big Hurt had to reinvent himself and make adjustments as a hitter after that season.

By All Spin Zone

July 5, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

I’m not sure what I like better, Mcbride’s walks or Ledezma’s hits. Men on base either way you slice it. So far, I would say it’s a wash.

Still think Oscar gets his first start and Devine is up to fill his bullpen slot. Now who goes out to make room for Devine is anyone’s guess.

Hearing Pete speak last night of Tyler Yates shoulder soreness, hope he isn’t going to the DL. He looked good again last night though so probably not that.

The pen is so overworked, they could probably use a couple of fresh arms out there and carry an extra pitcher. I still have a feeling about Orr going out. But then again, it could just be gas.

By Ryan

July 5, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Trust me…Devine is up. And who asked if he was up to be a starter? What? Hahahaha. That is a funny one.

I would guess he is up to take the place of Smoltz on the DL. No way they send Davies down and Smoltz is hurt, and bring up a reliever, that would not be smart. Like someone mentioned, it could be so one of the other pen guys can sit on their hands until Saturday.

By Braveheart

July 5, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

Andruw is putting on a hitting clinic for kids this off-season.

Ain’t that kinda like Shaq hosting a television show where he teaches fat kids how to lose weight?

By Efrim

July 5, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

I really hope it isn’t Yates. He pitched well last night though, it can’t be. I hope its Davies and they are going to use Chuck James Sunday on short rest.

By Lew

July 5, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

Coach-What did you say to get banned? Had to be something pretty bad. Stupidity sure hasn’t lessened your presence. Watch out for that Wrecking Ball. You can’t afford any more head injuries.

By Robert

July 5, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

I compare Andru hitting the wall right now to Carlos Baerga or Ruben Sierra, both of whom had incredible talent but never quite reached their potential because of the lifestyle they led and their lack of attention to fundamentals

Both did find some motivation to get back into playing shape when their careers appeared done (funny how expensive a party-boy lifestyle can be aint it) - but neither ever became half the player they couldve been

Andruw makes it a threesome

Why in the world do we continue to let a .200 hitter bat cleanup?

And I love today’s AJC poll. My greatest concern about this pitching staff is the guy who gets to decide who pitches and when. The choices offered by AJC are just more Cox apologism

By BossLady

July 5, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

These players are always checked from head to toe during the season. He cannot hide an injury as the physical conditions actually belong to the team and it is mandatory that they submit to thorough exams. If he can get by and fake it with the intense examinations they give them, bless his heart.

By Robert

July 5, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

It didnt take a genius to get the 90’s Braves to the WS

It took an idiot for several of those mid-90’s Braves teams to NOT win the WS

And it took a strike-shortened regular season, a one hitter in game 6, and a second (now-retired) idiot managing the opposing team for the 90’s Braves to actually win a WS

And it takes an idiot or a lot of Kool-Aid to not be able to see this

By DennyZenn

July 5, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Lew, it don’t take much.

By ElbravoX-- EbX

July 5, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

What could hurt AJ more hitting the DL for the first time in his career or batting 200?

DOB-

compare the music and between inning happenings of Dodger Stadium and The Ted. The last three games have been a pleasant surprise for my friends and I. The McCourts have done well since taking over.

By geauxbraves2000

July 5, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

As The Wick has struggled lately, I must inquire as to his earlier back injury. I do wonder if he is suffering lately.

Nice win last night, the “W” is all that matters, how you get it doesn’t.

Geaux Braves!!

By Braveheart

July 5, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Don’t forget Raul Mondesi, Robert. NOW THAT was a tremendous waste of talent.

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Robert asks: “Why in the world do we continue to let a .200 hitter bat cleanup?”

Gosh, that’s original. Why hasn’t anybody else wondered about that….

All Spin Zone, I’m with you on Ledezma. Not at all impressive so far (even though Salty should’ve had that hard-hit single last night; hey, part of the price you pay for learning on the job.)

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

DonC, Devine will not be starting games. Hasn’t done anything to prepare for that.

And Bobby said couple days ago that no plans to start Ledezma in the immediate future. He’d need to get stretched out to do that, hasn’t started in a while.

By Pro-tonix

July 5, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

I’m just visiting. But, if you folks are this nasty to one another, what would you be like to a new-kid-on-the-block?

By DennyZenn

July 5, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Testify, Brother Rober, testify.

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

Coach, you’ve got a deal: I’ll keep censoring polarizing political opinions from my blog, and you can stop blogging. That works for me.

By Hammer'd The Braves

July 5, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

An extra bullpen arm? Yeah. Five guys already with more than 30 appearances (Yates with 40!) and 175 innings. Not even counting Villareal’s 29 and 45. I’d say they need a fresh arm, yeah.

By DAP

July 5, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

i compare andruw’s hitting the wall to sampson, a mighty leader of isrealites in the bible, cause the philistines always tried to bind him and he always broke out and so he thought he always would and then delilah cut off his hair and he still thought he could escape when the philistines bound him, but he couldnt, and he got his eyes gouged out, and he was powerless.

its exactly like andruw’s situation. just since were sharing our andruw hitting a wall analogies and all that. uh oh? does that count as discussing religion?

By OVERLORD

July 5, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Orr has to go and carry an extra pitcher, his is not playing anyway, i think salty, diaz, yunel and woodward(i dont like him)r enough bench.

AJ has to sit down and when he plays, he need to bat 6th.

Kyle has to go down to the minors as soon as john gets well.

Villarreal needs to be given a chance starting, 2 or 3 tries.

Cormier should be given another try, he wont be worse than kyle (he is an automatic loss).

I would think about replacing Cox with mike Hargrove, as i understand he resigned to the mariners.

Starter is needed badly this is no news for anyone, just wanted to mention it for the 1000x time.

But i think that the must important thing here is that we r playing without a cleanup hitter, and it is imposible to be a contender if that is the case, the only 3 posible ways to win without a cleanup hitter are:

a. Having one of the best 2 or 3 pitching staffs in the majors.

b. Having a fast team that plays stealing bases like the cards and dodgers used to do.

c. Having a club full of players that play every at bat to make contact and have or make 2 or 3 long innings (like the yankees used to do on their run the past decade).

It is obvious that the braves are not even close to any of those options. So we need a cleanup hitter for the everyday job…assing someone and keep him there….Salty??? Brian??? Chipper??? I dont care who it is as long as he plays there 90% of the rest of the games and as long as it aint AJ.
But im sure this is if not as critical, even more critical than picking up another starter, since it would give something that is needed for anything you do in live (Playing ballgames in this case) STABILITY, and as we speak the braves dont have it because they are not sure if they are gonna score when they arrive to the ballpark because they dont have that much needed leader in the 4th spot, they have edgar and chipper, but thats another thing completely diferent. Even if John Smoltz pitches, there is so much uncertanty that they will win, just because are not sure if they are gonna score because there is no KING KONG hitting 4th, it doesnt have to be a HR guy necessarily, it just has to be an RBI guy.

By Blake

July 5, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

bye bye Woodward

By The Murf

July 5, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

DOB- Any trade rumors popping up with the Braves?

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

Those example I brought up are just that, examples. I’m sure there are better ones that we could come up with without much research. Please, don’t get caught up in the details and lose sight of the argument I was making, that flukes do happen.

I think Frank Thomas is a good comparison in terms of the drop off at 30 (not in terms of ability or skill set, of course). Thomas went from the RH Ted Williams to merely good and had some years where injuries took their toll.

I don’t think Thomas really made many adjustments. He didn’t really have to. He was already an elite hitter so once he started to decline he just became a good hitter.

I do think Andruw has tried to make adjustments (I think before the season he said he would like to walk more) and maybe that has hurt him, along with the possibility that there are some injury issues and the natural decline that age causes in a baseball player, especially one that plays a tough position in a warm-weather city and is in the lineup everyday.

Again, not trying to be an apologist. Just trying to offer up some likely and valid reasons, not stubbornness or laziness or anything ridiculous like that. (Ridiculous because why would he be more stubborn and lazy now than in the past couple of seasons.)

By DAP

July 5, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

robert yeah, man…everyone here is an idiot except for you. your arrogance chokes the fun out of this blog. shut up.

By Michael, Ex-Sports Editor

July 5, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Pro-tonix:

I’m a newbie too - my experience is that we generally get ignored.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

July 5, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

Pro-tonix,

It depends. If a newcomer comes on here posting jibberish like “Move Chipper to first, Trade Andruw, Release Hampton, Check out the new Tim McGraw c.d.” they will usually get a pretty significant hazing.

By Pro-tonix

July 5, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

Thank you for your response, Michael, Ex-Sports Editor. At least I know my machine is working.

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

Welcome Pro-tonix, only some people act like that to one another because they are uneducated morons who like to act tough on a computer.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

July 5, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Michael, Ex-Sports Editor,

I’ve been around for a good while now (over a year) and I still get ignored. Don’t think anything of it. It’s just the nature of the beast.

By OVERLORD

July 5, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Just a though….. it is really clear how good this team is, at least batting, that they r second in the league in BA and they have an everyday player below .200 and another very near to it (thorman), the rest of the team is a hitting machine just in need to get rid of that cancer (AJ). I dont care how many fly balls he gets, is not that we r gonna put a guy on a wheel chair if he is not around. Maybe he should bat with his glove instead of his bat or wrap it around the bat, and see what happens.

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Robert,

Except Ruben Sierra’s career OBP was .315 and was only above .330 twice in his career, just awful for a corner-OF/DH. Andruw has only been under .330 three full seasons excluding this season and he’s a centerfielder.

Baerga is better but his decline started at 27 not 30.

And, braveheart, Raul Mondesi was more in the Sierra mold, not Andruw.

Not sure what you mean by talent. These players were never really as talented as you are giving them credit for. They were average to slightly above in their best seasons. They were not Andruw Jones types.

By Pro-tonix

July 5, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

And thank you for your time, Mr. Hillbilly. Actually, all of that sounds fine except I was going to put Andruw in the bullpen. (:>).

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

El Bravo, agreed on the music and on the renovations at Dodger Stadium. The place is still a palace, one of my top-five stadiums, for sure. Just wish they hadn’t but so many seats in what used to be huge foul territory, but hey, gotta maximize revenues. better than that building a new stadium to replace this jewel.

By the way, they’ve averaged 2.8 mill per season for 45 years. Can you believe that? That’s remarkable.

By Train Wreck Bystander

July 5, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

Nice to see Chuck James sit after 5 innings. We all know he’s good for five, then takes a dive. I applaud the pinch hitting move.

Also, about the only time AJ hits a homer in recent memory, and for once, CJ doesn’t get a hit. At this point, I think he’s just plain snakebit.

Unbelievably, still only 3 games behind the Mets, and yes, I do think we can catch them.

By Caleb

July 5, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

It would be nice to get a series split tonight, though it’s going to be really tough against Penny. But, at least the Braves aren’t schedule to face either Peavy or Young when we play the padres this weekend. And they haven’t exactly been tearing up other teams pitching this year, so I have to think we’ve got a good chance at a series win. We’ve hit Maddux pretty well and, if I remember correctly, Wells too. It’d be great to go into the allstar break having won 4 of the last 5.

By ElbravoX-- EbX

July 5, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

Newbie, newbie? There are no newbies in baseball. There are rookies, not newbies.

By Pro-tonix

July 5, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

Thanks to all. Sounds as if I should just “watch” for a while, and then when I post, make sure that there is a positive link between my brain and my fingers. Is that the idea?

By DennyZenn

July 5, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Arkansas Hillbilly, if you are not overtly pro - DOB’s-musical-extravaganza, you’re just another nobody blogger. Go ahead and censor this. It’s true.

By N8 the Homer

July 5, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

DOB

I “torture” myself by watching this team, with the HOPE that they live up to potential at some point. I (as you know) was VERY optomistic about this team, leading into this season.

I thought Cormier would be a better option for the rotation than Davies (his injury and then Redman’s forced Davies into the rotation - and based on the fact that Bobby had Davies at Richmond to start the season, he thought he needed more “work”).

I absolutely LOVED the moves of getting Gonzalez and Soriano. Never stated otherwise, in fact argued ROUND AND ROUND with those who thought that losing HoRam spelled doom for this team.

Was willing to give Thorman a chance, still am. But ONLY in a platoon role with Salty.

Have thought that while Renteria’s bat is an essential part of this lineup, that he is the MOST tradable asset this team has, that might net a starting pitcher without mortgaging the future (Salty, Escobar, Harrison, Jo Jo). I still feel that way. It’s NOT a knock on Renteria. People seem to think it is.

Chipper is what he is. He’s arguably one of the 5 best OVERALL (both average and power), still active in the game today….when he’s on the field. And since Escobar plays 3B, and our seemingly fluid depth of SS in the system, that is ANOTHER reason that Renteria is more expendable than Escobar. Who plays 3rd if (when) Chipper goes down again? Orr? Woodward? Will Bobby move Renteria over? Didn’t think so.

Andruw. I don’t need to rip Andruw any more than I have. You all know the routine. I stated it last year, TO A BARAGE OF BOOS, INSULTS AND PROFANITIES, that JS dropped the ball, by NOT trading him before he became a 10/5 guy. I still stand by that. When we lose him to FA this fall, (receiving only draft picks), and the rest of this season goes by without hime contributing like we hoped he could (because I haven’t seen ONE MOMENT from Andruw that makes me think, he’s adjusted, or listened to a word TP is telling him), then maybe JS will secretly admit to himself that he made a huge mistake by NOT trading him last year. I surely don’t expect him to admit it publically…..that is until his next book comes out.

Smoltz? Arguably the greatest ATLANTA Brave of all time. Warrior. Speaks what’s on his mind. Calls it likes he sees it. Pitches hurt. Adjusts. Does whatever is neccesary to make it on the field, and give himslef and the team a chance when he’s on the field. If he’s down for any period of time, doom is surely ahead. I’m assuming even you, DOB, wouldn’t argue that point.

“I’m not asking you to be pollyanna, but you’ve turned into the biggest cynic on the blog.”

Good. Because it ain’t happening. Besides, I resent the fact that you say I’ve “turned into the biggest cyinc”. LOL! To my knowlede, I’ve BEEN the biggest cynic for quite some time. :-)

Do I blog too much? Sure. I can’t argue that.

“You pick apart every move, every game, and point to nothing but the negatives, and why they’re doomed and have no money to spend, etc.”

What I try to do, is “1st guess” as the action is going down. As to NOT get accused of second guessing or using hindsight to rag on Cox, as so many do. I try and find stats that back up my “arguments”, and do my best to make a reasonable arguement/suggestion.

Not like all the other idiots shouting: “TRADE ANDRUW”. “TRADE FOR OSWALT”. “TRADE SALTY AND ESCOBAR FOR BUEHRLE”. “RELEASE HAMPTON HE SUCKS”. etc…

As far as NOT pointing out good things? Come on. I commend good outings. I rave about Edgar. I’ve STUCK UP for KJ at 2B, and commend the job (and hard work) he’s put in their. I have NO PROBLEM with McCann, I do however believe he could use more rest, to stay fresh, especially a few weeks ago, when he still looked like he wasn’t 100 percent and Salty WAS on the roster.

Even last night, in my RAGE against the Chuck James machine, I said the following:

“Besides, tonight Chuck’s RESULTS have been exceptional, like they usually are. But he is STILL throwing too many pitches to get those results.”

What part of comments like that are totally negative, and NOT just stating the obvious? HOW FAR OFF AM I ON THAT COMMENT??? When I start repeating comments like that, it’s usually in retaliation or when arguing with somebody that disagrees with me, not because I’m so pompous that I think I’m right?

Do you NOT agree that our bullpen is getting used too much? That even IF we make a move to get a starter, these guys are gonna have jello arms in late August and into September?

Contrary to what you all might believe, I still have some hope for this team. MOST of it, is because the Mets are equally as pathetic as we have been for some time in the starting pitching department.

“…and why they’re doomed and have no money to spend, etc.”

So DOB, you disagree that the Mets are in better shape to HELP their issues via the trades, with an open checkbook? You’ve SHOT DOWN EVERY POSSIBILITY of trading for a guy like Oswalt because we can’t afford it with Hudson, Smoltz and Hampton already making big bucks next year. A guy like Oswalt, IMO is the ONLY caliber of pitcher that guys like Escobar and Salty should be traded for.

Since I assume that you’ll contest anybody that suggests we trade Renteria in mid-season, you’ll agree that trading those two guys is the only way we will get an IMPACT guy?

All I’ve stated (maybe repeatedly) is that AS WE STAND RIGHT NOW if no major trades or roster moves are made, five things need to happen to make the playoffs:

1) Chipper has to stay healthy.

2) Andruw HAS to be Andruw of old, (who cares what his stats are at the end of the year as long as he starts hitting like he CAN - and soon).

3) Smolts has to stay healthy.

4) McCann has to come close to doing what he was doing last year. ESPECIALLY if Chipper goes down and Andruw doesn’t turn it on.

5) SOMEBODY has to step up and start pitching some innings (quality ones at that) from the 3-5 spots in the rotation. Are bullpen is a strength. But it won’t be for long, if they continue to have to pitch 3-5 innings in 3 out of every 5 starts, (more like 4 out of 5 with Smoltz hurting).

So far, of all those things. ONLY TWO are remotely close to happening. It looks as though Chipper might fight through his issues and remain productive. Along with McCann looking like he’s ready to bust out.

Andruw ain’t close. Smoltz ISN’T healthy. NOBODY has stepped up in the 3-5 spots to eat innings. Chuck looks good most of the time, but he’s pitching the ammount of innings that you’d expect to get from a rookie that got called up in June, while “filling in” for the vacancy in the 5th spot of the rotation. As good as he’s been, in giving us a chance to win, he has taxed the bullpen JUST AS MUCH as Davies has, whether people wanna hear it or not. Only difference is that when Davies comes out of the game, we’re usually down by 4-5 runs. Or have just blown a 3 run lead.

I’ve stated MANY times, I’m OK with losing this year. So your suggestion of “…then why not just turn the page, come back to them next year or move on?” Might be a good one. Only thing is, I enjoy watching the kids play (Salty, Escobar, McCann - when healthy - Francoeur, KJ, Soriano, etc…).

I just find it too hard to pass up arguing with the homers that think this team is gonna be OK, as it stands, just because the Mets aren’t winning either.

Just like they all did with last years team. Especially when there isn’t much out there to be had in the trade market to help fix it NOW. Unless JS has some magic rabbit trick up his sleeve that even you are unaware of.

“…they’re not nearly as bad as you say…”

Say what? They are 20-29 since the 24-12 start that was fueled by RIDICULOUS 2-out RBI, that couldn’t and hasn’t been sustained. Even you said at the time, to not expect it to continue, because the numbers were so over the top.

Here’s what I’ve found, and it’s not only alarming it’s ironic.

In the 35 games that Smoltz and Hudson have started, the Braves have gone 22-13, while averaging 4.82 runs per game offensively. Oddly enough, Smoltz and Hudson have a combined ERA of 3.12.

In the 49 other games started by anybody else(Chuck, Davies, Redman, Buddy, Lerew, Cormier), the Braves have gone 21-28, while averaging 2.95 runs per game. Those starters have combined for a 4.71 ERA.

I guess what I consider to be the ironic side, is that for the guys that DON’T NEED as much run support, our hitters are giving it to them. To the tune of almost 2 more runs per contest.

Now what gives me hope (very little - but hope none the less), is that in the games started by Smoltz, Hudson, Chuck and Buddy the Braves have gone 35-24.

So ultimately, I can see the reasoning that if we add literally ANYBODY other than Kyle Davies to the rotation (since he has the worst ERA in baseball with at least 40 starts under his belt, as you said), we have a fighting chance.

All we have to do is find a starter that can do what Chuck (or Buddy) is doing. Keeping us in the game, and hoping the offense does something. I’ll assume JS can find SOMEBODY to be mediocre on the trade wires, without giving up Salty or Escobar.

But as stated above, if Smoltz is out, then I’m afraid we’re doomed. Not to mention that if the Mets meet the demands of another team unloading a really good starter, then we might struggle to catch them, and as I’ve stated repeatedly, I believe the wild card is gonna come from the NL West.

So in closing, I’M SORRY to everybody for being such a Debbie Downer. I still root for this team. I still have a sliver of hope. But you have to be partially blind to be overly optimistic at this point. Half way through the season, is not a “slump”.

As DOB stated to me, when describing this team: “They are what they are.”. Which, unfortunately might be a .500 (or so) team that misses the playoffs this year.

By OVERLORD

July 5, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

I do agree with moving Chipper to 1st and Play Yunel almost everyday at 3b, except for the days Chipper could play there just to keep the kid with less pressure on him, so Salty could play just catcher with Brian and Thorman playing little time.

But this is not to happen since that will make it almost imposible or Thorman to play and there will be no loyalty to him, right? hahaha.

ONCE AGAIN, WE HAVE THE TOOLS, BUT WE HAVE TO BE LOYAL.

By Shaun

July 5, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Robert,

I’d say Ruben Sierra was one of the luckiest SOB’s in the history of baseball (or should that be S’s O B’s?) at least in terms of perception versus reality.

He drove in over 1300 runs but his OPS when adjusted for league and park was just barely above average.

He drove in 100 runs four times and 90-99 three times. How? Well he had power, his managers kept putting him in the lineup in the middle of the order and he played in lineups with guys that got on base a lot.

By BossLady

July 5, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Pro-tonix, they are not usually like this to each other it’s just one or two that will rub everybody the wrong way. They know who they are and they continue to become adversary to one another. Welcome and Blog On!

By Arkansas Hillbilly

July 5, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

Pro-Tonix,

Wit and sarcasm will get you a long way on this blog. I think you’ll fit in just fine.

By N8 the Homer

July 5, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

“I would think about replacing Cox with mike Hargrove, as i understand he resigned to the mariners.”

LOL! Now THAT is funny. Replacing Cox with the ONLY manager that had his team lose to a Cox lead team in the WS.

No thanx.

By daniel

July 5, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

longest post ever

By rammerjammer

July 5, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

*Hammer’d,

I get your point about the pen needing fresh arms, but Devine has pitched in 34 games this season (33 in AA). He’s fresh in regard to MLB, but not regarding pitching.

Still, you’ve identified a creeping crisis. This bullpen is going to be a limp noodle come September unless SOMEONE can work into the eighth inning on occasion!

By ElbravoX-- EbX

July 5, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

DOB-

The only drawback is the traffic. I would buy a package of tixs, but I would have a freaking stroke. I have tixs for tonight, but I’m iffy about going. Still traumatized by last night’s events. Great fireworks though.

By Craig

July 5, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

What is Atlanta’s infatuation with Kyle Davies? It’s time to trade him for some gatorade or some practice balls, and MOVE ON. Here is a clip from the Atlanta Journal Constitution. There is a something like this after EVERY Kyle Davies start.

“Davies is 3-7 in 15 starts this season, and 12-18 with a 6.04 ERA in 43 career starts.

“Throw in his 1-2 record and 9.00 ERA in seven relief appearances, and his major league stats read 13-20 with a 6.19 ERA — the highest ERA of any active pitcher who’s made at least 40 starts.”

THEN!!!!!!!!!! HERE’S THE PUNCHLINE EVERY SINGLE TIME!!!!

“He’s still very young, so it’s too early to give up on him.”

NO IT’S NOT!!!! THROW IN THE TOWEL!

By Efrim

July 5, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

N8,

Well said bro. Maybe the best post I’ve heard in a long time. Those 5 things were spot on and the stats were tremendous. I agree with the acquiring of a starter. That would help this team. Getting a #3 starter would push James and Carlyle to the 4 and 5 slots and make us a better team.

Great LONG post dude

By ElbravoX-- EbX

July 5, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

N8-

I think you broke a record. On vacation? Retired? Unemployed?

By Chop Chop

July 5, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

N8, I’m generally a pessimistic fan, but I’m not going to come here and try and drag everyone down to my viewpoint. In your mind, you know you’re right. In my mind, I know I’m right about the state of this team. However, you’re never going to convince people to take up your own personal view of this team. It’s just not going to happen.

Anyway, if you’ve ever considered the possibility that a lot of fans would rather be positive about their teams than dwell on the negative, you should consider it again and draw the proper conclusions. Hey, maybe you could pick up a diary and write most of your negative stuff in there…and then just make snarky, negative comments about the Braves from time to time in here. You’d save the denizens a lot of scrolling and, most importantly, you could whittle your posts down to only your best putdowns and choicest stats to quickly make a point.

By Ron Roberts

July 5, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

Chipper Jones has said - ON THE RECORD - that he doesn’t wish to change positions yet AGAIN.

That has to stop surfacing. Along with “Trade Andruw.”

Neither are gonna happen.

By DAP

July 5, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

N8 did you just set a record for longest post ever? i know for sure you set the record for longest post ive ever read 100% of.

By BossLady

July 5, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

LOL LOL LOL!!!!!!!!!!

By Chop Chop

July 5, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

At the risk of my post being responded to by N8 before this one makes it, let me just say that I certainly don’t expect my advice to be heeded.

By John Bama

July 5, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

Sometimes I have to wonder about some of the bloggers here. Agree with you DOB that we should stop beating the horse of the .200 hitting cleanup guy, or the possibilities of trading that player or releasing Hampton etc. Not to mention here the comments of moving a Renteria…ugh.

I am wondering though if it does not make sense to approach say Florida about Dontrelle featuring Escobar. I still like Vaquez no matter what most say though the salary for the next couple of years could be an issue. He is an inning eater, power arm, that can pitch away from contact. Not that we need one of those guys in the third spot.

As for Davies, I am not sure what the love for him ever was. His only above average pitch seems to be a curveball that is inconsistent at best. Maybe it is just me but his 90-92 mph fastball seems straight as a board and when you mix that in with no location sure he is going to get hit hard. That experiment needs to be buried and we can only hope that JS and Bobby Cox are able to find a suitable replacement for him.

By David-ATL14

July 5, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

Confirmed ! Jo Jo Reyes will start Saturday Night in place of Smoltz.

By Thrillhouse44

July 5, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

I printed N8’s post to read when I can’t sleep and there’s no more Tylenol PM. Did anyone finish the whole thing? How did it end?

By ssi

July 5, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

An old sports editor used to tell me, when I’d ask how long a story needed to be, to make it “as long as it needs to be.”

N8, really strong post, dude. I cannot disagree with your research or your reasoning. I guess the way I look at it, I think this ballclub is better than what it’s shown. Is it the team we saw in April? No. Is it the team we’ve seen in recent weeks? I’d say no to that, too.

I think it’s somewhere in the middle, and I think some of the things you pointed out will happen, i.e. McCann hitting, AJ hitting somewhat. Smoltz has to be healthy, and somebody has to step up in the third or fourth spot, plain and simple.

But all in all, given how far the Braves have underachieved in my opinion, and the fact they awoke on the morning after Independence Day three games off the division lead is a reason to be optimistic. Should this team just play a little better, then can grab hold of the division.

Still, strong post, dude. Good stuff. And hello and greetings to the new folks here. Michael, where’d you work, dude? I used to scribe, but got out of it and now work from the ol’ abode.

—30—

By ernesto

July 5, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Once your post hits 1000 words or more, feel free to self edit a tad, cause ain’t nobody reading that thing Tolstoy.

By Marietta Dawg

July 5, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

Dave:

I’m just curious…since Smoltz has been replaced by Oswalt for the All Star game, does it still go into the record books that Smoltz was picked this year or is it as if it never happened since he’s been replaced? I’m just curious.

Thanks for the great insight that you provide us all and go Braves!

By BossLady

July 5, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

No

By Arkansas Hillbilly

July 5, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

N8,

Ice your fingertips dude. That had to be exhuasting. I’m no psycic but I see carpal-tunnel syndrome in your future. =-)

By Rookie Rules of Engagement

July 5, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

Rookie Rules of Engagement

1. Do not address any veteran blogger….. You can speak to a vet blogger when a vet speaks to you first

2. When vets are fighting with each other….. Stay the F out of it….. otherwise, you will get caught in the nuclear fallout…… it’s kind of like not picking sides when a husband or wife fight with each other….. when the drama is over, they will get back together and both will hate you for no other reason than they do no want to resolve the difficulties between them and it is easier to unite with each other by creating a common enemy…….. For reference, see the Chipper/Smoltz backstabbing…… they might even call you a bulldog because you reported their bullsh!t and dared to call them out on their b.s.!

3. STFU about the Devil Rays. This includes Baldelli, Crawford, Kazmir, Dukes, Upton, every single bloody one of them…..

4. Mike Hampton can not just be released…… they still have to pay the darn money to him.

5. Enough already about Wilson Betemit……. you will be told he is a fringe player whether that is true or not……

6. McCann was not given that contract so that he can be traded……

7. If you ask stupid questions, you are going to be called stupid…..

8. If you are gonna disagree with Shaun, you better be ready to engage in a day long battle and be prepared to be pounded with stat after stat…..

9. Quite simply, Robert thinks Bobby Cox is a Donk….. you will hear this taped recording play over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over AGAIN!

10. N8 is really called NHATE not innate……… He is a good fan but he will really wear you out with his negativity…….

11. Grinch, Carolina Lady, Bob Journalist, and Journalist Jimmy Smith are institutions….. don’t mess with them no matter how much they lead with their chin….. the whole blog will hate you if you go after them

12. Don’t cross Lew.

13. If you really want attention….. say something really shocking….. make a name for yourself…… just nothing lewd, crude, profane…… an actual opinion usually does the trick

14. Don’t go after DOB….. that’s just tacky……. and stupid….. and well it’s just wrong….. it is his freaking blog….. if you don’t like what he says or does, then leave, it is his friggin blog, folks…… why continue to be around something you detest…… This used to be the Don’t Be An Idiot Rule….. it has now been changed to Don’t Act Like Coach Rule.

15. If DOB knocks you down with a pitch, don’t complain, it is a badge of honor

16. Don’t ask DOB stupid questions……. state your opinion……. if he agrees, finds it remarkable or disagrees, he will let you know - ONLY if it is something worth commenting on. If he says nothing, then take the freaking hint……

17. If you are a persistent little bugger who needs to keep asking questions directly to DOB, don’t ask more than once….. that is very annoying to all of the other bloggers….. At 12:03 p.m. - Hey, DOB, is blah blah player getting called up? At 12:17 p.m., Hey, Dave is blah blah player getting called up? At 12:41 p.m., Hey O’Brien, is blah blah player getting called up? You didn’t answer me the first time……. At 1:07 p.m., oh, woe is me, fine just ignore me then DOB, I guess I have to say something outrageous instead of asking stupid questions to get attention from DOB….. then the blogger posts, refreshes and reloads the blog and sees this at 12:52 p.m. from DOB: Yes, persistent inane question asker, I read your question. Sorry I was busy doing my job reporting on the Braves, blogging 24/7 on here, having a personal life, enjoying some movies, music, television and friends, but now I am back to serve your every need. But it is not likely that so and so prospect will be called up just yet for this, this, and that reason. But they really do like him as a prospect, just not yet ready for prime time……. At 1:17 p.m., Sorry DOB, you just took so long answering my question. But thanks for answering. Love your blog man…… At 1:31 p.m., DOB will say no problem, man, no worries although he must wanna strangle the fella.

18. Andruw can not, will not be traded….. 10/5 guy and he and Boras fully intend to take advantage of that…..

19. DOB can not wish away the $80 mil payroll……..

20. NO RELIGION! NO POLITICS! NO RACE BAITING! That is what the rest of the AJC is for!

21. BBQ, movies, music, baseball, beautiful women, is all EL HOMBRE asks.

There’s so much more. This list of rules is subject to further editing, modification, revision. You guys can fill in the rest and make sure to post this everyday……. take turns….. put it up within 20 minutes of a new blog going up everyday… Save us a lot of grief….. Hopefully….. won’t hold my breath expecting it though….

By Michael, Ex-Sports Editor

July 5, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

ssi

Used to scribe at one of the college papers here in GA. Miss the old scribing days :(

By Braves Fan 79

July 5, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Well…it was nice while it lasted but were getting close to bobby giving woodcrap his weekly start. The guy has like 6 rbi’s in 50 games this year….why in the world would you use him as a pitchitter…much less a STARTER!!??

By Randall

July 5, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

Why isn’t obvious that there is a genuine closer already on the staff, Alphonso Soriano. THE ONLY SPORT YOU CAN PLAY AND WEIGH 300 POUNDS IN IS FOOTBALL, HOW CAN WICKMAN AT THIS WEIGHT STILL THINK HE’S AN ATHLETE, NOT TO MENTION THE GUY IS FORTY YEARS OLD, sorry about the caps. Andruw in a trade for anything, just get rid of his bloated contract and let my fellow South Georgian pla center. The Francoer,Harris,Diaz outfield could win big. Your going to lose A.J. anyway, cut the verry dead weight. He’s lucky to get that sweetheart deal now. Go cry in you fat free milk Scott Boras and sale your boy to some other sucker!

By Randall

July 5, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Why isn’t obvious that there is a genuine closer already on the staff, Alphonso Soriano. THE ONLY SPORT YOU CAN PLAY AND WEIGH 300 POUNDS IN IS FOOTBALL, HOW CAN WICKMAN AT THIS WEIGHT STILL THINK HE’S AN ATHLETE, NOT TO MENTION THE GUY IS FORTY YEARS OLD, sorry about the caps. Andruw in a trade for anything, just get rid of his bloated contract and let my fellow South Georgian play center. The Francoer,Harris,Diaz outfield could win big. Your going to lose A.J. anyway, cut the verry dead weight. He’s lucky to get that sweetheart deal now. Go cry in you fat free milk Scott Boras and sale your boy to some other sucker!

By ernesto

July 5, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

Anyone know the Mets/Stros matchups? I know tonight is Maine v. Jennings, and Jennings has been knocked areound a little lately (advantage: bad guys), but are they seeing Oswalt?

By berigan

July 5, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

Shawn,

Remember when comparing Sierra vs. Andruw, you are comparing a guy who wasn’t the same after the age of 30 (but played til he was 40) vs. a guy who has just had his first terrible season.

Overall, Sierra had 8044 AB’s and 793 extra base hits. In Andruw’s 6145 AB’s 698 Extra base hits. Sierra had a .268 career BA, and .315 OBP as you mentioned above. Anddruw had a .263 career BA for .342 OBP. Andruw has had 5 seasons with 100 or more RBI’s, Sierra had 4.

Andruw is the better player, but up to 30, not that different offensively. Hopefully, this is just a terrible one time only year for Andruw. Too bad Charley Lau isn’t still alive to work on his swing…..

By DennyZenn

July 5, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

N8, Smoltzie isn’t out, but he won’t last the summer. So we’re screwed.

Don’t tell DOB that, though. He likes a cheerful clubhouse that’s not down on itself because its so much easier to peddle hope.

By N8 the Homer

July 5, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

Rookie Rules of Engagement

EXCELLENT post. LOL!

You should’ve kept going. Only about 2500 more words, and YOU might’ve had the longest post ever. So close, yet…….

And for the LAST time, the only thing I “N-Hate” is bad baseball, played by good players. :-)

By The Grinch

July 5, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

Ohhhhhhhh, my head…

By TommyB

July 5, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

Theory on Andruw

He really doesn’t want to play anywhere else. It bothers him deeply to contemplate that likelihood. He knew before the season began that having a banner year would insure a very high pressure contract in a different town. That’s how it began and after a point, the bad habits may have become too much to deal with. Especially when deep down you really don’t want to.

By Ron Roberts

July 5, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

Ernesto… Tolstoy. FUNNY!!!

Rules of Engagement were classic, too! Good stuff!

Dunno who’s reporting JoJo’s starting Saturday as “official,” yet, but somebody ought to prod awake the techno-wizards at the Braves’ website. Uh, John Smoltz still starting Saturday, eh? Way to stay on top of things, there, guys…

By bravesfan

July 5, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

Hey guys just in case yall didn’t notice Adam Laroche is heating up. Today he is 3 for 4 with 2 hrs, 1 double, and 3 rbi’s.

By ERC

July 5, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

JO-JO REYES will be called up to start Saturday per Bill Shanks

By BossLady

July 5, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

Do not press the POST button more than once, just be patient.

By Pro-tonix

July 5, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

Gee, I’m going to have to take a typing course to blog on here. AND I’M NOT AIMING THIS AT ANY OF YOU BLOG RUSHMORES!

By MBATL

July 5, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

N8, from the epic post, you said:

All we have to do is find a starter that can do what Chuck (or Buddy) is doing.

But, at 9:49 last night, you said: Chuck James is a frickin joke.

Sorry if some of us get mixed signals from you.

By Lew

July 5, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

Now Hillbilly-We don’t ignore you. We talk to you all the time. It’s just hard to blog when you’re fishing for all those shellcrackers and stumpknockers.

By daniel

July 5, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

Rookie Rules of Engagement.. I’ve been lurking on the the blog for over a year, and post very occasionally. But, I do read the MIB/Braves blog most everyday. Those rules absolutely sum it up, and are pretty funny to boot. I’m sure you are one of the other regulars going in disguise but that definitely lays out the dos and don’ts of blogging here on the MIB/Braves blog. That should be archived and bloggers new and old should have to review it regularly.

By berigan

July 5, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

N8,

Man, you must be some sort of journalist as well, to write something that long…or perhaps you are Stephen King??? ;)

Randall, Alphonso Soriano does have a good arm in left, but I don’t know that he has closer stuff, IMHO.

HEY EVERYONE!!!! Guess who is hitting .242 with 13 homers, and 51 RBI’s??? Adam LaRoche!!!!! Perhaps there is hope for Andruw yet!!!!!

By beachcomber

July 5, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

Rookie Rules - Priceless!

Superb rules of the road we (rookies, vets and just occasional posters like myself) should all follow. Great post!

By Coach ( CENSORSHIP STINKS)

July 5, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

Democracy exist everywhere but here in this blog. Guys like Hitler and Stalin would be proud. Delete , delete , delete , delete………….lol

By Lew

July 5, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

ProTonix and Editor-What did you ask that was ignored? Dide you ask someone in particular a specific question and they didn’t repsond? Or did you, perhaps propose a trade such as why don’t we trade Pete Orr for Carlos Zambrano? Or perhaps Why don’t we trade Andruw Jones? Rookie Rules-It’s never been a matter of anyone crossing me. You are now as well as any other time, to have your opinion, whether or not it coincides with mine. But as soon as you post it on a public forum and it’s a stupid post, don’t be surprised if someone tells you you’re an idiot. Lord knows I’ve had plenty of people casting aspersions on any aspect of my life. It’s got nothing whatsoever to do with “crossing” me. Only an Idiot would think that.

By berigan

July 5, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

Randall, and about Wicky’s weight and being an athlete. A woman came up to John Kruk back when he was playing, and said he didn’t look much like an athlete, and he said, “Lady, I ain’t an athlete, I’m a baseball player! ” ;)

By mr baseball

July 5, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

About 98 percent of what Bobby Cox says for public consumption is totally meaningless. The only time words coming out of his mouth mean something is when he is critical of a player, which rarely occurs. A few weeks back, he expressed displeasure, both verbally and in body language, with the pitching of Macay McBride.

Even though McBride had only poor effort in about a month, he was out of here in a day or 2. At least he could get lefty hitters out, which is a lot more than you can say about Ledezma.

Anybody think that wasn’t a coincidence? It would not be a surprise if the person heading to the minors is Davies, barring Smoltz going on the DL. And even then, Davies may be headed to Richmond.

Contrary to the less-than-informed view of many here, Davies has the stuff to be a decent major leaguen starter. He has pitched enough quality games to prove he has the ability, but his inconsistency can be maddening.

Maturity and a better command will make him more effective in the next year or 2, but very few here seem to have the patience to allow a young pitcher to develop. If there were better alternatives available in the minors, the Braves would have made the move already.

It’s interesting that the Braves have produced an endless array of position players who have become first rate major leaguers either here or elsewhere, but the organization’s track record at developing young pitchers who became productive major leaguers is pretty skimpy.

You can count the quality starters the Braves have developed since the early ’90s on the fingers of one hand. With the possible exception of Wainwright, just about every prospect they’ve traded away since Jason Schmidt has been a huge flop. Ask Oakland about Dan Meyer. Or Milwaukee about Jose Capellan.

Plenty of you here seem to think the Braves can dump Davies, maybe Carlyle and James as well, call up Harrison or Reyes or somebody from the minors, and that will solve the problem. Most of the rest of you are under the delusion the Braves are going to trade for Maddux, Buerhle, Morris, Contreras, whoever.

Unless some GM is as clueless as the guy in Cleveland was last year regarding Wickman, pitching help ain’t arriving in a trade, and help from the minors is suspect at best.

If the Braves are going to win, it’s going to have to be with James, Carlyle and maybe Davies in the rotation. And if Smoltz has serious shoulder problems, you can pretty much forget about this season. Things will start unraveling about as quickly as the sweather in that song by Weezer, and no trade or minor league callup is going to make any difference.

By my head

July 5, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

Ohhhhhhhh, Grinch!!!!

By Dr. Jay

July 5, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

BEST THING I could have heard all day is that Smoltz will not stress his shoulder in the All-Star game, and get some measure of rest over the break.

And now…as a service to N8, who desperately needs a diversion, and Rookie Rules, who’s kindly established Rule #21, I give you the delicious Megan Fox…

http://www.askmen.com/women/galleries/celeb-profiles-actress/megan-fox/picture-1.html

By Rookie Bloger

July 5, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

Rookie Bloger’s way to improve the Braves…

1.Move Wickman to 7th inning (or at least 8th)put Soriano as closer.

2.Try yo package Salty and KJ for a proven starter like Buehrle.

3.Make Escobar everyday 2nd baseman.

4.Bring Prado up for Orr.

5.Obviously send down Kyle Davies down.

6.Bring up Buddy Hernandez until Braves aquire another SP.

7.Keep platoning Willie and Diaz.

8.Move AJ at least down to the 7th spot in the order.

1. Sit AJ for series vs. Padres, which will give him a week to sit and rest…it csnt hurt.

This is just a 15 year old, rookie blogers take on the ways to fix the Braves.

By Mr. J

July 5, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Rules of Engagement,

Thats the funniest thing I’ve read here in a long time.

By Caleb

July 5, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

DOB, can’t remember if you’ve already stated this, but are you covering the all-star game in San Fran?

By daniel

July 5, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

DOB I think a good addition to the blog would be a DOB remembers section where the elite few posts that are original, humorous, or totally stupid don’t die in cyberspace but can live forever for all denizens to enjoy (at your discretion, of course). Just a suggestion, may not be reasonable or favored by anyone other than myself.

By Pro-tonix

July 5, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this

“LEW” I didn’t ask anything that wasn’t answered. Now excuse me while I get back to shining Mr. Rules of Engagement’s shoes.

By N8

July 5, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

MBATL

“Sorry if some of us get mixed signals from you.”

You don’t think that at THAT MOMENT (after walking a PITCHER who stands 6 feet 10 inches tall - with ball for being HIGH), that that was acceptable?

Throw a 75 MPH batting practice fastball down the middle for crying out loud. Don’t walk a pitcher who has had ONLY 3 hits in 50 AB’s for his career, and only been walked 4 times coming in. Not sure who the other guys that walked him were, but my guess is that THEY were jokes as well, at that particular moment.

Apparently you rather enjoy my long tirades, other wise you would let it go.

JUST FOR YOU, I’ll keep em’ coming.

YOU HEAR THAT EVERYBODY!? MBATL has opened the “keep the negativity coming” can of woopass.

By Bob, Journalist

July 5, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

Nathan, self torture is permitted it’s the other kind that has me concerned … I know My Lady’s “Independence Declaration” was inspirational but while yours is a valiant effort, I don’t think she intended for you to attempt to add a book to the Bible or compete with Nancy Creek’s Miss Mitchell … such efforts are doomed to failure … still, congratulations are in order … you came mighty close!

I too do want to express my appreciation … maybe now, folks will now begin realize just how succinct I really am.

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

The Rookie Rules of Engagement were just about perfect. Actually, they were perfect. Someone should take them to the NEW BLOG THAT’S UP

By AZBravoFan

July 5, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

You know, set aside all the woes of Andruw and Kyle for a second and think about how different this season might be if not for 3 fluke occurances.

1) Brian McCann, hitting at least as well as if not better than last year inexplicable decides to bunt runners over and takes an inside pitch off his ring finger. 2) Chipper and baseball arrive at Jose Castillo at the same time and Chipper lands awkwardly on his hands after the collision. 3) Smoltz gets his pinkie caught on Austin Kearns shirt (or whatever happened) and dislocates it.

Imagine if McCann and Chipper had been healthy and stayed hot through May and June. And perhaps if Smoltz hadn’t been focusing on his finger that he re-injured while trying to pick up the struggling offense, maybe he wouldn’t have slipped and tweaked his shoulder. Where would we be right now? If Chipper and McCann were producing, maybe Andruw wouldn’t have felt the need to hit each ball out of the stadium. Maybe the offense could have picked up some of our struggling pitchers and they could have gained some of that much needed confidence. Then maybe the bullpen would be more rested. Who knows? Then again, maybe we wouldn’t have been introduced to Salty and Escobar yet. Crazy game this baseball. Here’s hoping you can throw out the stats in tonight’s Huddy - Penny matchup!

By Bob, Journalist

July 5, 2007 5:50 PM | Link to this

Expert Chef Mr. Baseball makes an astute observation but it’s unlike him to to be anybody’s straight man or shill … our comedians may indeed be in need of help but “About 98 percent of what Bobby Cox says for public consumption is totally meaningless is serving it on a platter.

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2007 6:03 PM | Link to this

There are no rules, just post whatever you want and if DOB finds it inappropriate it won’t come up… And if you want to be negative, thats your perrogative. In my opinion, a TRUE fan of any team has the right to be negative about individual players on that team, as long as the criticism is warranted. In other words, criticism for Pete Orr, Chris Woodward, Andruw Jones, Mike Hampton and Kyle Davies should not be met with someone yelling at you for being too “negative”. If they PLAYED BETTER BASEBALL there would be no reason to bash them…

By Bob, Journalist

July 5, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

Shaun Payne, in your 9:06 AM, you seemed to indicate that “Ruth, Gehrig, Williams, Mays, Aaron, Bonds didn’t strike out that much because they were either exceptions because they had superior hand-eye coordination or they played in a different era where defenses didn’t make as many plays”.

Of course, I always thought superior hand-eye coordination to be a requisite part of the skill set but … what does the number of plays made by the defenses have to do with strikeouts?

No need to respond, it sounds good and no one blames you for attempting to defend your posture or your heroes.

Methinks most of those who strike out excessively could refrain from so doing without significantly impairing their effective power production capacity … could if only they would.

Evaluating and optimizing individual swings is complex and best left to hitting coaches but methinks lever generated bat speed is the key to power and violent swings are generally associated with the inappropriate use of the levers … and tend to be power inhibiting rather than power enabling.

If so, one would think that appropriate use of the levers would improve both the power production and the strikeout levels of the player.

Maybe players who hit for power and average, who don’t excessively go down on strikes … are just doing more of the right things right than those who don’t.

By Denny Zenn

July 5, 2007 7:07 PM | Link to this

Lew, can this newbie say hi. Or will the censors enforce the rules of engagement?