Braves

By \\\\\\\\\\BERIGAN//////////

July 11, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

I hope I am first…its so important to be first!

By DSGB

July 11, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

What about Billy Wagner’s outing last night? He didn’t quite back up what he was complaining about did he?

By Brooklyn Brawler

July 11, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

Pitching wise now that buherle is of the market, where next do we turn DOB?

Offensively I see us grabbing Dmitri Young, but pitching is what get’s you in the playoffs. Who’s on the radar, Contreras, Harang, Snell?

By ernesto

July 11, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this

The question is are we good denizens more optimistic at teh start of the second half than coming out of spring training or less optimistic.

By brent a.

July 11, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

“Death Cab for Davie”

By BravesFanInRockies

July 11, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this

DOB,

As always, thanks for the great info.

Much as I called for the Willie-to-leadoff-to-let-KJ-drive-in-runs move, you’re right. It’s time to end that experiment.

Do you think there’s a chance that Salty will become the primary 1b in an arrangement like this? Salty relieves Mac one or two games a week and plays first the rest of the time with Thorman as backup?

By David-ATL14

July 11, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this

DOb, thanks for cranking out a blog on a non game day. Enjoyed it thoroughly.

What roster move do you see for Friday? Devine down? Pena up? Orr can’t comeback until July 16th.

I know the brass is in ATL and you are in SF, thought you might already know or have a educated guess. I can’t see the Braves holding on to 13 pitchers.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 11, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this

an epic blog from the noted one. esteem is overflowing. and just what is a hoss-basher? would journalist be considered such a basher? and if so, journalist wishes to be a hot-hitting hoss-basher. thankyouverymuch. journalist has left the building.

By Braves20

July 11, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

DOB - Interesting thoughts on LaRoche’s reception. It may well turn on who’s manning first for us.

With Salty, he gets polite applause.

With no-hit, no field Thorman, a hero’s welcome.

By Ron Roberts

July 11, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

DO’B… has there been any buzz about the Braves’ trying to make a move by shipping off one of our up-n-coming bullpen arms? I’d have to think Joey Devine or Will Startup would be enviable to some folks trying to shore up their bullpen for the second half.

John Schuerholz would pull off another miraculous deal if he’s able to get us a mid-rotation quality starter and manages to keep Saltalamacchia, Yunel Escobar, Renteria and Kelly Johnson.

That’s how I’d do it, too… with the relievers mentioned. Thing is, I’m not sure the White Sox have a need in the ‘pen for the forseeable future, if Javier Vasquez is indeed the best guy to go get. I don’t hear much clamoring out there in BravesNation, but I personally would hate to see us use Elvis Andrus as a bargaining chip for anybody, either. Two to three years down the road, he’s going to make for a heck of a left-side infielder, and what an infield that could be, both offensively and with the glove. He, Escobar, and (I’d hope) an improving Saltalamacchia & Johnson make for quite a productive offensive infield, with Francoeur and the up-and-coming Brandon Jones in the outfield and Brian McCann behind the dish. Wow, what a future lineup, eh?

But where’s this franchise’s future ace(s) going to come from?

By BravesFanInRockies

July 11, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

ernesto,

Optimism about the same. Optimistic for different reasons.

I thought we’d win back then and thought Redman was a great pickup and that Thorman would rake (d’oh!).

Now we know that the Mets and Phillies have great strengths and serious flaws. So do the Braves. Our guys’ look more fixable. Plus, we’ve had more pleasant surprises — Carlyle, Willie C., Salty, Moylan — than the other guys, IMO.

By DonCoburleone

July 11, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

Check out this article on one of the Braves 2nd round picks:

1. RHP Josh Fields, Braves (second round, 69th overall)

Good arm action. Much as when I profiled Rick Porcello (27th overall pick), Fields does an excellent job of firming up his front side (notice his glove movement starting at frame 29) to prevent him from flying open. He lands a little stiff, which may make it hard for him to throw the ball down in the zone. So what? With mid 90s heat, high arm slot and long stride, I’d want Fields to work up in the zone anyway.

One more thing, again from minorleaguebaseball.com:

“He’s a six-foot righty with a power arm who’ll likely always have to answer questions about his size.”

Not from me. Really like this pick here. He should move quickly.

Talk about “going after it,” here are Josh Fields’ violent mechanics…. [For video click here]; (http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/breaking-down-the-draft-10-more-overrated-underrated-picks/) (He’s about two-thirds of the way down the page)

By \\\\\\\\\\BERIGAN//////////

July 11, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Yes, the Pirates are playing better, this year vs. last,(40-48 this year, 30 games *under .500 at the All star break in 2006) and recently. They’re 9-4 in their past 13 games and have won four consecutive series.

No Doubt a hot LaRoche has helped them of late. Hopefully they have peaked, and will slump in the ATL!!!!

By Hotspur

July 11, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

Brooklyn Brawler, I think DOB said earlier the Nats wanted Salty AND Escobar for Dmitry. That sound you heard coming from Turner Field was John Schuerholz laughing.

By ernesto

July 11, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

I alm also more optimistic. But, not b/c the Mets and Phils have shown weaknesses - we suspected that last spring.

We’re 2 back having gotten zilch from Druw. Zilch from 4 and 5 pitching spots. Little from first base. I think all of those things are bound to increase - plus I think we can reasonable expect all the good things to keep on keepin’ on. I think we’ll be 10 games better in teh second half.

By Kentavo

July 11, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this

Good god, I do not want Dmit-hook, he’s more outta shape than Wickman and Paronto combined.

By Coach ( Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 11, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

Speaking of the Pirates , they finished 7-3 with a team ERA of 3.80 over the last ten games before the break.

By hk

July 11, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

… look who’s leading the ‘MVP’ at the All-Star break !!!

Player - Runs - HR - RBI - Last Week - Now

Andruw - 78 - 27 - 98 - 188 - 204

Renteria - 102 - 18 - 82 - 205 - 202

Frenchy - 73 - 18 - 106 - 190 - 197

Johnson - 100 - 16 - 75 - 192 - 193

Chipper - 87 - 27 - 75 - 180 - 189

McCann - 47 - 16 - 89 - 142 - 153

Thorman - 53 - 16 - 60 - 136 - 129

Diaz - 33 - 7 - 35 - 75 - 75

Harris - 47 - 2 - 22 - 73 - 71

Team Average - 156 - 160

… cleaned up the curves a bit, might be worth a look:

http://www.mindspring.com/~hk3/newton.htm

By DonCoburleone

July 11, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

For video click here

By Ron

July 11, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

This is starting to p!ss me off!!! That was not me on the previous blog at 1:00 today that said we need to trade for Santana!!! And then the little B!tch used my Exclamation points!!! Actually he used the exclamation points pretty good, I figure most probably thought that it was me!!! BUT WHOEVER IT WAS DONT BE DOING THAT CRAP NO MORE YOU STUPID PIECE OF SH!T!!!!!

By Chauncey

July 11, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Here’s a shout out to the Will and Grace fans on this blog. I like the show, too. This blog has something for everybody.

By Miller

July 11, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

Miller-Vasquez is due $35 million for 08-2010. If you were going to spend $35 million on pitching for the next three years, would you really want Vasquez, who the only time he played for a good team, performed at his worst, or would you rather try to use it in the offseason to get someone else? Is he really the best way to spend that much $$$$?

Lew O’ For Sure my preference is to wait until the offseason. JS has made some of his best moves during that time.

However, if we do go out and get some one as DOB as said there is a good chance of then yes I believe he is worth the money. As for being on a good team, have you seen lately how bad of a team the White Stockings are? Vasquez is 6-5 with a 3.65 in 17 starts. That’s 6 no decisions and with a 3.65 era I am willing to bet that he hasn’t received that much run support in those five loses.

As for moving Kelly back to the leadoff spot I must say I like him where he is for now unless Willy has a huge slump in the second half. KJ has the ability to not only drive in the heart of the lineup in front of him, but he also gets on base for those behind him. I like him hitting in the 5th position against righties. He is kind of like a second lead off man for the second half of the linup. Then McCann, Thorman and Thorman(although I wished Bobby would go with Salty) can try and get him in.

By Pro-tonix

July 11, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

SJA & jjs In your search I have some things for you to consider. Who has the most to gain by being a jackal, a 73yr old man who lives in the sticks of TN or a 30 something that lives here(?) and who considers this blog to be his personal fiefdom? Also, my writing style(such as it is)is consistent. His, on the other hand, can run the gamut depending on whether he has been poppin’ pills, drinking, or both. I ask only for your careful consideration and I throw myself on the mercy of the court.

Trembleheart Many of us who post on here at all hours of the day and night have an excuse—we are retired. What’s your excuse? (I mean, making copies of old blogs[do you save your good ones? Small pile.] and all that time-consuming stuff.) Are you unemployed? Are you in a white-collar prison? I know you are not in drug or alcohol rehab. Or do you have such an unimportant job that you can call-it-in? I go for the former ‘cause any boss worth his or her salt would run your smart@$$ off in a heartbeat. And now, goodnight sweet prince(Speaking of which, Grinch watch yourself, he has such a manlove crush on you that he gets insanely jealous when others speak to you)L.M. Hull/Paladin/The Great Santini/Pro-tonix is/are leaving the bldg.

One postscript: To borrow from Grinch, I’d rather kiss Rosie O’Donnel on the mouth than post under a sobriquet like “Stinky”. Look for a 30 something, or much younger.

By DonCoburleone

July 11, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

I keep hearing about Oakland strongly considering switching to “sell” mode in the coming weeks… I know we probably have no shot at Haren, Gaudin, or Joe Blanton; But what about some of their bullpen guys who have started before like Joe Kennedy or Lenny Dinardo? I think Beane would be willing to part with those guys for next to nothing as they both are due for a healthy arbitration raise after this season… I think we might be able to get one of them without giving up Escobar or Salty… Although I think those two might be viewed as the same thing as Wil Ledezma; Jeez, starting pitching is indeed hard to find…

By Lew

July 11, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

Another thing on Dmitri Young-He has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Now it can be dealt with, just ask David Wells. But if you saw Wells in SD recently, he’s lost some weight and has reportedly changed his habits. He actually looked pretty healthy. Believe me, that helps considerably. Dmitri, on the other hand, looks sick. He certainly is in no better shape and looks bad physically-you can see it in his face. He is going to have serious troubles and soon. Diabetes is a lot like being on a see saw-it’s real hard to keep a balance. I don’t think Young is doing a very good balancing act.

By JC FROM UT

July 11, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this

I say leave KJ in the middle of the lineup, I wouldn’t even mind him hitting 4th. If given the chance he will drive in runs. As foar as Texiera goes, he is a great hitter and fielder but Salty can be just as good a hitter and makes a lot less money which could be used to fortify the rotation. Offense is not the problem, we need more pitching.

By Braveheart

July 11, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this

Pro-tonix, we’ll stop the silliness now. If you wanna discuss it further but not in a way that ruins the enjoyment of this blog and the good denizens, please feel free to email at kennydoyle33@yahoo.com.
We can cyberpunch each other lights out over there. :-) Let’s leave it alone now. Sorry, everyone else.

By kinley

July 11, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this

If our options are Contreras, Harang or Snell, then I’d rather have Snell by far. Seems to me Contreras has lost what he had two years ago, and I don’t believe the Reds would part with one of the most important pieces of their team — especially one that’s a pitcher.

By Rod Johnson

July 11, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

Mets rule. You drool - really liked that performance by your buddy Wagner - he was sharp, wasn’t he? Hope he’s just as good the 2nd half of the season…

By David-ATL14

July 11, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

Mets rule, You know how a Game is determined as a “BIG GAME” at the MLB level?

Billy Wagner’s blowing it.

By chipdip

July 11, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this

Hoi…Hoi..Hoi!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Idiot Drool Boy

July 11, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this

I was wondering when Drool boy was gonna screw up and show his face.

Losing that game is spelled two words.

BILLY WAGNER!

sound familiar drool boy? Was a one run game before your lame closer came in. Lets see, your guy shuts the door and the NL wins 4=3. Instead, he leaves helping the NL be down by 3!

What an idiot you are! ROFLMAO

By Mets rule. You drool

July 11, 2007 7:21 PM | Link to this

Whatever. Wagner is usually lights out, ocassionally a guy gets a hit, thats baseball. But you know Fat boy just looked overmatched out there, he is so overrated and overeated, he didnt deserve to be there. How did it feel having Reyes on your team for once? Pretty sweet right? We get that EVERY night. Hahahahahaha!!!!!!!

By DonCoburleone

July 11, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

MetsRule you guys have a deep bench? LOL, thats hilarious… Since when do Julio Franco, Damion Easely, Ruben Gotay and David Neuhan make for a “deep” bench anyway???

By Pro-tonix

July 11, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this

Done. And I also apologize to the blog.

By Rod Johnson

July 11, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

I’m sure you get the salami every night, too. :D

By Rod Johnson

July 11, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this

What happened to NYC? Nothing to do there anymore but read AJC columns? Whu don’t you put on your teddy and use your web cam for awhile?

By Mets rule. You drool

July 11, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this

To answer Ernestos question I think Bills fans should feel opitimistic about the Bills, I mean, Braves. I mean no way is Pedro going to come in and DOMINATE in the second half. And just because were still 2 GAMES ahead and about to come out of a losing streak and get hot (when we played the worsed baseball we could possibly play), and were about to get to get a WHOLE LOT of production coming of the DL. No really YOURE team should feel opitimsitc.

By DonCoburleone

July 11, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

And our bench(against a righty): Saltalamacchia, Diaz, Escobar and Woodward.

Against a lefty: Thorman, Willy Harris, Kelly Johnson and Woodward… Yeah, tough call as to whose team has the better bench MetsDrool

By DonCoburleone

July 11, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

“How did it feel having Reyes on your team for once? Pretty sweet right? We get that EVERY night. Hahahahahaha!!!!!!!”

Except for the nights when your manager benches him for not hustling. Just think of how good he would be if he actually played hard every night…

By Idiot Drool Boy

July 11, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

Billy Wagner says Mets are “underachieving.”

LoDuca is acting nuts and ticked off, one reason being the Mets don’t act they want him back next year. He’s whizzed off some of the latins on the team.

Reyes doesn’t hussle and Randolph benches him…TWICE in ten days!

Wagner say’s he doesn’t blame Willie for benching Reyes.

Willie is breaking chairs and doors in the visitors clubhouse.

Glavine and El Duke’ are getting shelled on a regular basis of late. Pelfrey was a washout. Maine has been good. Perez is coming back to earth and looking closer to the Perez that came from Pittsburg. Sosa…..well…. he’s looking more like Sosa again. Pedro may or may not be able to throw like the Pedro before he got hurt. Either way, he’ll only be good for 5 or 6 innings when he comes back. That equals…… Mets Blowpen!

Delgado is on the downhill side of his career. Maybe he really is a .220 hitter?

Alou will be back soon, but he’s a 41 year old position player who will get hurt again soon.

Beltran is struggling getting on base. He’s down from what one expects his performance to be

THE MEDIA is finally catching on. I heard a number of analysts this past week say that the fact is the Mets ARE playing at their level. They just aren’t THAT good! Too many holes!

So are the Braves better than the Mets? Can’t say that they are, but they sure ain’t no worse! lol

World Series dreams Mets fans? Or should I say nightmares! lol

By Rod Johnson

July 11, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

We can argue all day over who has the best team. We’ll play the rest of the games and see who comes out on top. There is no debate, however, as to who spent the most $. If NY loses in the end, who really knawed the crank? Hmm?

By Mets rule. You drool

July 11, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

How pathetic. Willie makes a move designed to send a message to the team about his expectations for hustle and sits Reyes for what, 1/2 an inning - how much did FatDruw have to sit when Boogie benched him for not hustling?

Try to make a story about it if you want, in the end its just another thing thats going to make the Mets even more Amazin in the second hafl. Hahahahahaha!!!!!

By David O'Brien

July 11, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts wrote: “I’d have to think Joey Devine or Will Startup would be enviable to some folks trying to shore up their bullpen for the second half.”

Ron, sorry, but teams don’t shore up their bullpens by trading for pitchers who’ve never worn a major league uniform. You really believe teams are calling about Will Startup, and offering something in return that would help the Braves in the second half?

By Rod Johnson

July 11, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

Hmmmm, come to think of it… isn’t there another team in NY paying lots of $$$ to lose? Must be that NY state of mind.

By Rod Johnson

July 11, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this

Which makes me wonder even more… if you paved the ground in the shape of a dance floor with the number of hundred dollar bills that it took to pay the annual NYC team salaries… how many angels could dance on it? ROTF

By Rod Johnson

July 11, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

What if they both lose? Lets’ see… top payrolls in each league, could that be right by any imagination?

Oh, the humanity! This is a crime against the state!

By DonCoburleone

July 11, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

“You really believe teams are calling about Will Startup, and offering something in return that would help the Braves in the second half?”

DOB the informed bloggers like myself know better… Although maybe the Braves have enough faith in a guy like Devine to trade Yates? I bet a package of Yates and Escobar + a prospect could land us an important piece for the 2nd half no? Then Devine takes over Yates’ spot in the bullpen…

By HP

July 11, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Mets rule. You drool: Why would the braves want Jose Reyes on the team. They already have Edgar Renteria who a lot better than him. Just look at the career statistics. Didn’t you pay attention to all of the baseball writers during the All-star week what they say who deserved to be the NL All-star starter and reserve. Sorry to say, but most of them didn’t have Reyes on the team. Loser!!!

By Superman

July 11, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

“who really knawed the crank? Hmm?” freakin hilarious rotflmao

By Mets rule. You drool

July 11, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

Did you see where V. Zambrano was released? We’ll get him back and ride him to the WS. He’ll even be the DH in the Series when we beat up on the D-Rays. hahahahaha And Reyes sweet little tushy can ride on my bench anytime. Do you ever see it when he runs? Now that’s a*******oriffic!

By Rod Johnson

July 11, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

Bottom line, drool… if your team doesn’t win the East, your owner is going to look like the guy who paid for a tricked-out Ferrari and got beaten on the track buy a near-stock Beamer. You better hope your guys win - they have a lot more in this hand to LOSE than any other team in this division - if not the league.

By Mets rule. You drool

July 11, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this

What are you guys 12? You got guys poaching my handle, the others just call me names, your afraid to talk baseball, thats fine, I dont blame you - your team blows so much FEMA should be called in to survey the damage. Hahahahaha!!!!!! You guys suck. Sack up and talk baseball ya pusses.

By Michael

July 11, 2007 8:30 PM | Link to this

DOB, what’s your take on LaRussa not using Pujols? I still can’t figure that one out. Makes no sense.

By Rod Johnson

July 11, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this

Yep, drool… gotta admit, you must me on to something… signing players that have been released by other teams this far into the season, after you’ve already spent the most in the league, is a GREAT tactic. Sneaks up on the competition! :)

By ernesto

July 11, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

Hey Michael, here’s my guess - it’s the All Star game - and this time it really doesn’t count as much as it did any other time. I think LaRussa’s giving his guy one more day off. Like Leyland said about Putz (the Seattle closer) who they are going to face next week “I’d use him for 6 innings if I could” Real baseball is all that counts, no matter what Bud might have you believe.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 11, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

Last night I posted that I thought Andruw would be playing for the Padres next season. I still believe that to be true but I think Washington is going to make a very serious run at him.

The fan support in D.C. has been pretty positive even with the AAA team they have this year. Their new ballpark will be a draw and if Andruw is signed their season ticket sales will increase by about 10,000. They will have the means and they will have the payroll space.

Major League baseball did the franchise a great disservice when they gutted the Expos/Nationals minor league system. In the meantime they will have to build their team with free agents.

As for trades with the Nationals, the guy to get is Shawn Hill. Very good young pitcher with a big upside.

Forget Demetri Young, play Thorman and Saltalammachia. Their numbers will only get better as we play the second half. Also agree the Braves need to move Kelly back to leadoff and Willie in the 2 slot. Who knows why certain players thrive in certain spots. It all head games anyway.

By AthensBrave

July 11, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Why mess with the lineup now with the offense clicking?

I know Harris has struggled recently, but we are still winning. Kelly has been raking in the 7 hole. Maybe he feels comfortable there.

By John B.

July 11, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

Mets rule: Didn’t you just call us a name? Get over your damn team man. Yes they are good, but no they are not better than the Braves. Not by a long shot. The only pitcher you have right now that’s doing anything is Maine. That’s it. Also, benching someone twice isn’t sending a message to the team, it’s saying that Reyes is playing without any heart.

By Dave

July 11, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

Heeeeey, it’s drool again! Funny you should say that. you talk very little baseball the times I’ve seen you here. All you seem to get done is flapping your gums. But hey! When your team is 2-6 in their last 8 games and your big stud closer just blew the All-Star game, I’d look for something else to talk about too!!!

Hey, in all honesty, between me and you, I think Rocker got it all wrong about the 7 train in NYC. After all, it runs much more consistently than your shortstop does! Hahahahaha!!

By Yars

July 11, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson should be in the lineup everyday, & it doesn’t matter where he hits in the lineup, as long as he’s in it. However, I enjoy seeing him in the #5 hole. I have a feeling Bobby will keep going with a platoon at 2B, at least until Yunel cools off.

By DAD

July 11, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

Braves fans! Just remember that DOB is delusional if he thinks the Braves will beat the Mets this year. The main reason that the Mets will win the NL East by a wide margin is Bobby Cox’s loyalty to Wickman. It is obvious that Wickman is losing it as a closer based on his past performances. He will blow 7 or 8 games after the All Star break, and Bobby will keep using him. As great a manager as Bobby Cox has been for the Braves, his loyalty to Wickman is going to cost him the NL East title in 2007. So, Braves fans just sit back and enjoy the Mets as they steamroll to the NL East title and then on to the World Series.

By Bob, Journalist

July 11, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

Methinks repeated apologies for repeated offenses for behavior unbecoming are generally insincere.

The value of an apology reflects the value of the individual giving them and while it may be considered polite to so do, insincere apologies are of no substance and methinks, are of little value, perhaps worthless.

Methinks repeated apologies for repeated offenses for behavior unbecoming that are sincere suggests a personality or behavioral disorder in need of serious attention.

One either can or cannot control their own behavior … if they can, and choose to behave badly then they most are deserving of the harvest reaped.

If they cannot, but recognize that their behavior is uncontrollable, unbecoming and inappropriate … and that apologies are in order, then they too are deserving of the harvest if they do not seek the medical attention needed to bring it under control.

Regardless, we are what we are … the only difference between the leopard and us is that our spots are not immutable.

By Ron H

July 11, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

OK, just saw the rumors of Salty for Texeira

No way!! Texeira is TOO expensive for us to keep for more than this season. Besides, his agent is the blood-sucking BORAS. Who needs that? We’re going to trade Salty for a 3 month RENTAL? NO WAY! I like Texeira, but then we’re in the same boat next year…no 1B!

Keep Salty at 1B. Platoon him with Thor. Here’s the hard decision: KJ or ESCOBAR. I like them both, and they can both produce. Who’s more valuable between the two? I’d say Yunel, as he seems more versatile. Trade him for a serviceable pitcher that we can keep for a few years. I think KJ has proven himself this past 1/2 season and can keep his own. I daresay he’s a potential AllStar.

We need a pitcher now and I think Yunel can get him for us. What do you guys think?

Good luck

By Idiot Drool Boy

July 11, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

What is that sound? There it is….. can’t you hear it? It’s a squeaking sound, it’s getting lounder!

Ohhhhh…. that is just the window of opportunity closing on the Mets!

Old pitchers, some old position players. A catcher who’s nuts and on the way out. A couple of young stars of the future, but other than that, not much.

The Mets know they have to win it this year! Next year will be too late!

The funny thing is, they aren’t that good! The more they struggle, the more they panic.

If the Mets are so good, how can a team that features such an inferior lineup be only two games back?

Simple answer is, the Mets just ain’t that good!

Drool boy will kill himself by mid September when he realizes the Mutts aren’t even going to make the playoffs!

By heath

July 11, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

You know, you make fun of drool for suggesting that the Muts may sign V. Zambrano, but the Braves are as likely to do that very same thing. There just does not seem to be a whole lot available out there in the way of starting pitching and the Braves have been know to take a flier on a guy. In fact, I would rather see them sign that kind of a guy than trade away our young talent for a rental pitcher. Getting a good pitcher to push us into the playoffs is nice, but does ONE pitcher make us competitive against the AL? Especially if we are giving up Salty or Escobar, etc??? Braves are better off taking a chance on a guy like Zambrano and seeing where they are during the offseason. If Andruw goes elsewhere, we can trade for a premier starting pitcher and sign him long term…..just saying…

By Coach ( Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 11, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

LaRussa said it himself , he was saving Pujols for extra innings. In other words , he wasn’t playing to win in the ninth. Which ticks me off and I hope the Cardinals ownership can see that mistake in LaRussa’s Judgment.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 11, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

Okay folks, I think I have this All-Star thingee figured out. When I was a kid I used to root for the Orioles. Back then the National League beat the American leaguers like a drum. Now that I am a Braves fan the American league is on a streak…

Maybe I will start rooting like a fool for the Mets just so they will tank.

By Dave

July 11, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this

Hahahahaha. Oh DAD, you kill me man!

Are your Mets supposed to steamroll people like they did the Rockies and Astros before the break? Is that how it’s “supposed” to be done Daddy?

Do us a favor, put DOWN the bong!!! Hahahahaha!!

By AthensBrave

July 11, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

MetsDrool,

You insult and write at a 5th grade level. Do you get satisfation writing, “you guys suck?” You are possibly the worse poster that has been on this blog all year.

I feel bad for other Mets’ fans because of you

By Ron

July 11, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

no this is the real ron…what are you talking about you imposter above me…?

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

July 11, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

Anybody watching this Brooklyn Dodgers documentary on HBO? It’s good…

By chrisklob

July 11, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

GHF, thanks for the tip. Been looking for something decent on the tube.

By Alan

July 11, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

I’m surprised there’s not more criticism here of LaRussa’s “saving” Pujols for extra innings last night. That was as bone-headed a non-move as I’ve ever seen. I couldn’t help but think, as both Hardy and Rowand were allowed to hit, that if the NL manager were Bobby Cox (wait ‘til next year), the BC bashers (you know who you are) would have been all over him. How could Albert Pujols not play?! That was absurd. It was almost like LaRussa was letting his buddy, Jim Leyland, win the game.

By Ron

July 11, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Heres some moves id like to see happen: lets dump smoltz and bring back redmen to take his spot. This also clears up room to alow pete orr to come back on the team. Lets then trade chipper for some minor league talent and let woodward take over at 3rd. I really believe in this woodward guy…he looks pretty strong at the plate…and when i look into his eyes i can see our future together forev….wait sorry i dozed off there for a minute and was daydreaming.

By Rosalynn

July 11, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Ladah Buhd Johnson has expiahed. Ah am in no condition to blog fuhtha on this mattah.

By Carolina Lady

July 11, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

Of minor interest:
“Court TV is now a part of Turner Broadcasting, parent of TNT and TBS, and is owned by Time Warner Inc. Time Warner bought the network from Liberty Media last year.”

By Greg in TN

July 11, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

Evening denizens…

Safe travels to you on your journey back from the land of BALCO, DOB.

It’s almost time to strap on the leotard and dive into the second half of the season. We have the momentum of a good finish on our side and a much lighter schedule to get some traction in the race to October.

For the love of Cornelia, we don’t need to trade Salty or Escobar away for Texiera or Dmitri Young, and I don’t believe we will. The next couple of weeks will go a long way about how aggressive JS will be as we near the trade deadline.

Should be interesting times in the ATL.

By David O'Brien

July 11, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

Rosalynn = priceless.

By Lew

July 11, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

I just love it. The Mets have a record of 19-25 since the 20th of May. That’s seven weeks, or half of the season played so far. That’s not a slump. That’s not a losing streak. It’s a trend and a statement of how poor the Mets really are. All throughout the All Star Break, I heard Mets’ players like Wright and LoDuca, as well as Willie Randolph stating how it was going to burn them because they let the Braves stay close. Even the players and manager are scared that they were not only not able to knock us out of the race, but looked like crap while they didn’t do it. Just like I told NoBrainZone all throughout the winter, not only would we be there, but the Mets, just like they did for 14 of the past 15 years, would find a way to underachieve-can you say Mo Vaughan, Jeromy Burnitz, Carlos Delgado? Now we even have LoDuca admitting it. Seems everyone in NY knows except the Drooling Idiots that they call their fans. Yeah, NoBrainZone was right. Their pitching will definitely bring them a championship. Yeah. Right. Just how’s that shaping up? You happy yet? Didn’t think so. But don’t worry, maybe you’ll get Jorge Sosa back in time. HAHAHaHaHaHa.

By JJMB

July 11, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

Well, Miss Rosalynn, 94 trips around sol is much better than most of us get. Just think of those poor bassets she let lbj pick up by the ears. Is that the secret? Let your spouse abuse animals? Hmmmm.

By Chauncey

July 11, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this

I guess my favorite episode of Will and Grace involved the woman with one long leg and one short leg. I laughed and laughed and laughed! Just to be cavalier, let’s blog about that episode tonight.

By David O'Brien

July 11, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this

Hey, folks, I’m not hung up on the Kelly leadoff thing. Not that big a deal, and agree with you the team’s playing well so it’s not likely to change. I just never thought he should’ve lost the leadoff job to begin with.

Here’s something for the Braves to consider beyond this season: Kelly back in left field for next year. If they’re not going to get value for Escobar in a trade, in other words if he’s worth more to the Braves than what they’d get in return, then they’ve got to open up a spot for him to play every day next season.

And Kelly is too good a hitter to give away for what they’d probably get in return at this point. Kelly’s a very good hitter, and a decent second baseman (not as great as Bobby would have had you believe early this season, but not bad).

And if you don’t believe Kelly’s arm is good enough or would hold up in left field, for some reason, then how about Escobar out there? If Escobar’s not going to play his natural shortstop position or third base, he could probably be as good in left field in a hurry as he is at second base. Of course, he could get very good in a hurry at 2B, too.

But he’s got the speed, athleticism and lord knows the arm to be a stud in the outfield corners.

Either way, I wouldn’t trade Escobar for anything less than a big-impact bat or pitcher. Really wouldn’t. He’s got star written on him. So does Salty, as we’ve already discussed.

I move Salty to 1B after the break, if he’s not being shopped.

By HP

July 11, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this

Manny Acosta of Richmond Braves is on ESPN pitching right now for Triple all-star game.

By Braves Fan 79

July 11, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this

Man i miss seeing the Braves play nightly already….the allstar game this year was lame. And even lamer was Bonds not doing the all star derby…whats his excuse? Hes not in good enough shape? thats like OJ saying theres no way he could of stabbed 2 pple 2 death cause of arthritis. And its not like hes got a pennant race in the 2nd half to worry about resting up for. This just in barry: THE GIANTS SUCK! And you couldnt even do right the very city that actually supports your sorry cheating a$$!!!

By Bob, Journalist

July 11, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

Coach,

While LaRussa puts less spin on such things than some others, one cannot assume that to be the long and short of it … if he used Pujols and it went into extras, what did he have left?

If the answer is “nothin”, then a more serious question becomes why did he allow himself to get into that situation after all the fuss caused by the fiasco of a few years back?

Assertions that Albert was fit and ready may or may not be true and so Tony’s judgment may not be relevant to the issue. What he did may well have been his best option.

Passing judgment on poor judgment can itself be poor judgment … and dangerous. Methinks exercising good judgment and being right aren’t equivalent … ask anyone who took advantage of the fact they had the right-of-way and was involved in an avoidable accident.

The fact that someone uses poor judgment and draws to an inside straight to beat your trip aces doesn’t mean that you should have folded when he bet, but it was poor judgment to have bet the ranch.

I too would have had Albert in the batter’s box. If he was hurt and unable to play … and his manager didn’t replace him with another player for reasons of private agenda, then methinks the offending manager should be banned from baseball for intentional behavior not in best interest of the game.

Shaun Payne, did I hear you correctly … do you believe that we should take into account the fact or probability that a player could have been great even if they had not cheated?

In school, those who cheated got zeros on their papers, even them what could have gotten 99 had they not wanted 100.

Actually, the teacher took into account … removing the one they didn’t deserve.

By Wayne in Utah

July 11, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this

Last night I was delusional when suggesting we get Teixeira from the Rangers. Now, realizing that Scott Bore-us is his agent, NO WAY under the sun would I trade for him or for ANY Scott Bore-us client, for that matter!

I wouldn’t care if a team wanted to give me a summer rental that was Scott Bore-us’ client……well, maybe if they GAVE him to us, I would then take him, but I would NEVER negotiate with Bore-us. Do we have any other Bore-us represented players? If so, let’s trade them all!

How’s that for flexibility??

And, please Mr. Schuerholz, let’s leave Dmitri Young alone. We don’t need him. Hitting is not going to be an issue if AJ has a big second half.

By Steve from OH

July 11, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

DO NOT SIGN VICTOR ZAMBRANO…. he’s had several bad minor league outings in a row coming of an injury…I saw him pitch in Toledo and he sucked, and 3 weeks later I saw Richmond lit him up. Let the Mets have him.

By keylargo25

July 11, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

GHF

I was watching the Brooklyn special on HBO and the thing that stood out was that Gil Hodges was BENCHED for a slump. Without mentioning any names to protect the guilty, it seems to be a lost art. I guess that’s another part of the game that’s history.

By David O'Brien

July 11, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

I just noticed Marcus Giles has the fifth-lowest OPS (.651) among NL qualifiers.

And he’s got the same slugging percentage (.338) as Juan Pierre. They’re tied for fourth-lowest in the NL.

By Percy

July 11, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this

Yes, I recall that episode. I believe that was Bernadette Peters with the short leg. I also cajoled on that one. Does anyone else on here like Will and Grace like I do?

By Wayne in Utah

July 11, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

DOB I like what you are saying about Escobar and Saltalamacchia. I would deal either for a big time hitter, but maybe for an impact pitcher.

I can see us putting one of our second basemen out in left next year, with Diaz in reserve. I don’t think Willie will be here, unless in a utility role.

I could also see us trying to pick up a quick fix CF, maybe somebody like Church, Kotsay, Duffy, etc. I would love to see Rowand, but Cameron might be more realistic on the FA market.

Lastly, we need another player to back-up Chipper at third. Do you think Aybar will be back??? He would be OK. Otherwise, how about somebody like Ensberg from Houston or Loretta as a “super utility” guy?

Just some thoughts. Also, some of my friends here would trade Devine, Boyer and Startup. I keep them unless they are required to comprise a package for an impact starter. Also, I would take my chances with our starting crew if we could convert one of our relievers to a starter over the winter. Which of these guys might have enough pitches to start??? Yates, Boyer, Ledezma, or maybe Villarreal.

Hope you are enjoying SFO. Is it still under construction? It was the entire 15 years I lived in NorCal.

By brian

July 11, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

I like DOB’s idea of having Escobar and KJ in the lineup in the same time, but what to do with Willie Harris? I guess if you are talking about next year he could open up in CF and platoon with Brandon Jones (he bats righty correct?) or be a great 4th OF since he can also play CF.

I of course, love to think of Salty playing everyday at 1B with an occasional start at catcher if needs be to keep the brass happy

KJ Edgar Chipper McCann Frenchy Salty Yunel Brandon Jones/Harris P

not bad

I think the Braves will probably trade Edgar and slide Yunel into the SS role in the OFF season

By Chip

July 11, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

What’s Nick Green up to lately?

By chrisklob

July 11, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

Braves Fan 79, I agree with you that the game was pretty lame although I was happy that the NL didn’t get blown out as has happened so many times in recent years. The crowd was so quiet during most of the game that I wondered if it was being played in Montreal or Florida.

With respect to Bonds, my feelings are mixed with his participation in the HR Derby. While I think that he should have participated for the sake of the SF fans that were there, have supported him, and voted him in, I can see his side too. Bonds is almost 43, which is my age also. I can tell you that my body does not function as it did at 33, much less 23.

Bonds’ main goal right now is to break Hank’s record. I don’t think he cares about the Giant’s season; let’s face it, they aren’t going anywhere. He’s got to keep himself healthy to hit those few more that he needs. Besides, what would be more embarassing than the Future HR King sucking wind in the HR Derby? If he stunk it up then wouldn’t he be giving the haters a bunch of ammo to go after him?

By Steve from OH

July 11, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

DOB

If you’re ever in the mood for a good hard rock album, try Kix’s “Blow My Fuse.” Excellent album, if I do say so myself.

By Wayne in Utah

July 11, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this

Willie Harris Lovers And, I include myself in that group. I am thrilled with what Willie has done so far this year. He has given the Braves a real boost in LF. BUT, he is not doing well leading off, and has trailed off considerably as of late.

So, what I am trying to say is we should appreciate what we are getting from Willie now, but not to expect it to continue. If he does keep up his average, great, that is a bonus. I wouldn’t want to count on him for a starting role next year until he does this for a much longer stretch. Much like Diaz is still considered a part-timer.

If you don’t believe me, go the the Braves site, go to stats, and select “last 30 days” to see how our Braves are doing relative to the past month.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 11, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this

this just in - dob do not listen to that new i-pod in the rain! I-pod owners are being discouraged from listening in the rain due to possible lightning strikes. this reminds jimmy smith of a tailor shop in decatur. one is cautioned never to wear a suit purchased there in the rain. and there is some big news today. and how about thomas stinson with that riveting article about player nicknames!! hint: thomas stinson has a reporting error in that article. can bloggers find this error? and thomas stinson may be on the way out the door on this blog. not up to standards. this is a blog of multiple wurlitzer winners, a best of cox, and international acclaim. now, lady bird johnson is dead at 94. makes anne cox chambers look like a kid at 87. nothing wrong with an 87 year old billionaire girlfriend. nothing wrong. not in the rain, though. oh, the humanity! what if anne cox chambers gets wet on one of these road trips? pruney? “e” in pruney? pruny?

By Braveheart

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

Could Escobar be the centerfielder next year?

By Bobby Cocks

July 11, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

Larussa is a smart-a$$ know it all. I’m glad we don’t have him. As much as donk hacks me off with his bullheadedness, I’ll take him over the red-light snoozing amateur lawyer/manager with the birds on his chest and the 80’s specs on his face anyday. R.I.P. Ladybird, your hubby helped screw up ‘Nam and Civil Rights.

By Dane

July 11, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

First of all, brian why in HELL would we trade Renty when he has been are best player for the past two seasons.

Second of all, does anybody think we can trade for a really good young starting pitcher like Noah Lowry or Matt Cain. Do you think the Giants would take Escobar for on of them because the have a really old shortstop and really old second basemen. (Omar Visquel and Ray Durham).

I hope we can get a really good YOUNG starting pitcher to take us all the way becuase our offense is good. WE DON’T NEED TO BE TRADING SALTY FOR ANYBODY. We can put him at first base and are offense will be alot better then it is when Suck Thorman is out there. With Hudson, Smoltz and hopefully a really good young pitcher that we trade Escobar for, James, Davies it is a pretty solid rotation. Our offense will be good like this, Harris LF Renty SS Chip 3B Druw CF who is getting hot Frenchy RF McCann C Salty 1B Johnson 2B Pitcher

The bench would be Thorman, Pena, Woodard (for expierence only, and Diaz.

Bullpen Soriano Closer being Wick sucks Wickman SU Yates Oscar Moylan lowest ERA for rookie pitcher Paronto Ledezma Devine or Boyer

I think this is a good roster and could get us far in the playoffs because it is a mix of youth and veterans.

GO BRAVES.

By David O'Brien

July 11, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Steve From OH, that reminds me:

I keep forgetting to give you guys a big recommendation on a great CD I just got, Tiger Army’s “Music From Regions Beyond.”

The group sprang from the Southern California sound the folks out there call “Pschobilly,” though they’ve moved away from that a bit to a more accessible, though to me no less rockin’ vibe.

It’s outstanding, make you move your a** and pump your fist like an idiot if you throw it on at home alone, I tell you. (I know some of their longtime fans out in LA and other parts say this is a sellout album, but they’re just being typical music snobs, upset when more people get turned on to their band.)

They are anything but the teen-pop group the name might imply. The’ve toured with Social D and other big acts. They rock hard, but with great hooks and enthusiastic vocals and just a cool buzz throughout.

But since maybe you don’t want to listen to the same band as 12-year-old girls (Green Day), I’d recommend Tiger Army.

Oh, and the more I listen to the Ryan Adams CD, the more I love it. It’s so brief, but great. Right up there with his Gold and Hearbreaker and Jax City Nights records, and what Cold Roses could have been if it’d been culled to one album instead of the bloated double disc it was (it had great songs, just too much filler).

By TBFKB

July 11, 2007 11:46 PM | Link to this

I’m reading about AROD and his potential new contract and the number is 300 million for 10 years….that is unreal

By TBFKB

July 11, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

First you know poker, then you knock green day….your suspect kid, suspect I say.

By DAP

July 11, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this

mets drool wow, dude, did you just say “reyes’ sweet little tushy”?? i think we just got a glimse to far into your head, man…

By The Grinch

July 12, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

“Knock Poker?” Whoo-hah! I love unintentional puns. DOB, I can honestly say I’ve never heard Ryan Adams (didn’t he sing a bunch of cheesy “power ballads” in the 80’s?) so I have no opinion, but the Onion A.V. Club has an interview with him up now and they usually do good interviews. I would link it, but that never seems to work. Go to Onion.com, click on AV Club and you can find it easy from there.

By fastasballs

July 12, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

I think Brandon Jones will be in LF next year. He’s putting up good #’s at Mississippi. I think they go the free agent route to fill the gap in center. The Braves have a guy by the name of Jordan Schafer(sp) who is being groomed to play CF. He’s probably a 2009 guy though.

The Braves have this unknown amount of money to play with & it will allow JS to get creative. I’m shocked & pleased to hear that Liberty is adding money to the payroll for this year. That may mean an increase for 2008’s payroll as well. Between that & Hampton’s insurance money may be able to land a decent pitcher for the stretch run.

As long as they 8-10 million may as well go after Pettite, well as soon as the Yankee’s decide they are out of it. They are desperate need of prospects & the Braves have a slew. Yeah I know it will never happen, just my stab at a dumb trade idea. Everyone else has one, lol.

The Muts are in trouble & they know it. If they were such a great team wouldn’t they be up by 10 plus games? They are an old team & it’s showing. The only guy they have of age that is not DL prone is Glavine & he’s not exactly fooling anyone lately. Their hopes ride on Pedro coming back & producing miracles. We have already went through that with Hampton.

I’m all for standing pat with the exception of beefing up the bench & maybe a good lefty for the pen. I’m completely happy with the offense, even more if Andruw produces. Hope to see a lot more of Salty’s bat in there as well.

We all know whatever JS pulls off good or bad, we won’t see it coming.

By Chop Chop

July 12, 2007 12:16 AM | Link to this

DOB, do I detect a hint of music snobbery on your part? After all, if a guy puts together a double album with a bunch of filler in it, he’s just doing his thing. He’s sticking it to the critics who think every song should be great. Stick it to the man, dammit! Throwaway songs are the ultimate rebellion! Yeah!

Okay, okay…I’m just being an a*, but hey, most of us are music snobs and hypocrites to some extent. I can rip the hell out of Whitesnake and still catch myself singing along with “Here I Go Again” on the radio and picturing Tawny Kitaen writhing on a car hood. Granted, if it weren’t for MTV, I’d probably have no interest in the song, but Whitesnake’s video created a moment that will always be remembered by teens (or kids, in my case) in the 80s and yes, oh yes, their cheesy song will live on forever.

By Chop Chop

July 12, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

Oh, and I’m with Grinch. I don’t even know who Ryan Adams is. I guess he did “Summer of ‘68”. It never caught on.

Just want to say that I owe DOB some credit for turning me on to some different music. That’s one reason I hold this blog in such high esteem. I may not like all the music discussed here, but my horizons have been broadened by that discussion…and that’s a very cool thing.

By Bob, Journalist

July 12, 2007 12:36 AM | Link to this

On Andruw Jones, Bobby says “To me, he’s got the same approach that he’s always had” … it begs the question as to why Bobby has for so long allowed him to continue with its use … it’s obviously a bad approach that has robbed him of the opportunity to reach what was once awesome potential.

By The Grinch

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

Chop Chop, I tried to turn him on to bands like L.A. Guns, EnuffZ’Nuff, Cinderella, Poison, Faster Pussycat, Skid Row, Warrant, etc. You know, REAL HEAVY METAL, not that watered down Nu-metal crap they play these days, but he still acts like he’s above it. I’m sure it was the fact that they all sold a lot of alblums that activated his snobbery, not the music itself which is undeniably awesome. That kind of pure, unadulturated kick-@$$edness ought to transcend any self-imposed boundaries. Let it flow, Dave! Come over to the dark side!

Peace out, yo.

By Superman

July 12, 2007 12:51 AM | Link to this

did i miss something??? Did media liberty open the purse strings a little or what???? Is there an article or something i can read on that fastasballs????

By The Grinch

July 12, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

Breaking News: Ricky Henderson named new Mets hitting coach. Guess they really aren’t scared, huh, changing horses in mid-stream? They’re on the run, Y’all; just got to reel ‘em in. Now I’m really going to bed.

By Miller

July 12, 2007 12:57 AM | Link to this

Since we have already talked about the second half of the season to death and we still have another day before are Bravos start play again, how about some thoughts on next years team.

I know a lot of you would like to see Andruw go, but I am one who would like to see him stay. The first half of this season aside, he has done well for us in the past and I don’t think we could ever replace him defensively. Besides I have to believe all his troubles is because he is pressing since its a contract year. I have looked at all the posibilities in the minors and I really don’t see anyone up and coming for next year. I know quite a few of you have talked Brandon Jones but to me he still needs at least another year of seasoning. We could go out and get someone in the off season but we would still have to pay a lot of money to get someone who is half way decent. So now that Liberty is uping the anti a little why not retain Andruw and then trade and get a #3 or #4 man for the rotation.

As for the starting line up lets move KJ out to left field, put Escobar at second, and give Salty some Hubbardesk tutorials at first. That gives us Escobar-2b, Rent-SS, Chipper-3b, Andruw-CF, KJ-Lf, McCann-C, Frenchy-RF and Salty-1b. For my money that is one hell of a lineup. Then you have Diaz, Willie, Byran Pena and Thorman on the bench (get rid of Woodward).

I also have to believe Hampton will be back and will also be effective. So if we don’t pick anyone up (which I think JS will), then that gives us a starting rotation of Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, James and either Buddy or Davies(my money is on Buddy, more consistant and he just wants it more).

Well there you have it. Any takers?

By David O'Brien

July 12, 2007 1:03 AM | Link to this

Superman, no article, nothing official. Just a comment I heard from a person who should know. I don’t believe the figure I heard (“about” $20 mill), but I get the impression it is probably somewhere between 10 and 20 mill, the total of what they’re getting back for Hampton insurance (and no, I and no one else has been told that figure) and what Liberty is prepared to raise the payroll by. Again, nothing official, just something I heard from someone I trust.

By Bob, Journalist

July 12, 2007 1:06 AM | Link to this

For some reason, I had thought that “Lady Bird” was older … an often overlooked lady, her photograph was never the mainstay of her resume but she could make you stand up and take notice when she was so inclined.

A strong willed lady, when she things shes didn’t like, she did more than just talk or Blog about it. She was an activist for the beautification of America and her impact on environmental awareness was probably greater than even she realized.

Methinks Lyndon Baines was a misplaced person when he was in the house on Pennsylvania Avenue … he belonged up on the hill where he knew how to wield power and could get most any bill passed or defeated, just by exercising his will.

Our politics were different but he recognized the apathy of the majority and called them out … he, like all of us, was flawed but methinks few had greater devotion to duty and those who would defile his memory on the day of his wife’s passing are guilty of contemptuous behavior.

By David O'Brien

July 12, 2007 1:09 AM | Link to this

Good point, Chop Chop. And yes, I am a hypocrite for calling someone else a music snob, since I’m obvioiusly a pretty blatant one myself, at times.

And while Tawny was memorable, that song is/was pathetic.

By the way, it was Bryan Adams who did that ubiquitous and boring “Summer of ‘69” (not ‘68), and it’s Ryan Adams who’s the extremely talented singer-songwriter, though he has been quite a pain in the arse during drunken concerts and such.

Get his new album, “Easy Tiger,” and I’ll guarantee you’ll like it. Well, maybe not guarantee, but I’ll bet you like it.

Or, just get Bryan Adams and rock on, man.

By Superman

July 12, 2007 1:14 AM | Link to this

cool thanks dob I dont post a lot but i am an avid reader. I would just like to thank you for being so devoted to this blog. It really helps with my braves addiction. lol

By Ron Roberts

July 12, 2007 1:14 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, DOB said it all. Truly the dumbest post that I have read in a few days. No way is anyone interested in Startup or Devine, with no more experience in the Major Leagues than they both have. Smart post genius.

By TennesseePaul

July 12, 2007 1:15 AM | Link to this

Looks like Tom submitted an article on a topic I posted on earlier this year. At least it’s making print. Coxian nicknames are the worst. Thor being the coolest one to date. B-Mac isn’t bad. But, from what is report, Thor is being turned into to Thory? Lame.

By Ron Roberts

July 12, 2007 1:20 AM | Link to this

There I said it. I made a stupid comment. It is not like others have not made stupid trade proposals.

By Chop Chop

July 12, 2007 1:30 AM | Link to this

Wouldn’t this blog be really bad if it were known as the “Everything I Do (I Do It For You)/Braves” blog? I don’t think I could handle that kind of suckitude.

Grinch, I don’t know how to respond to “THE REAL HEAVY METAL” groups you cited. All I can say is that you mentioning those names nearly sent me into a glorious rapture of attempting to sarcastically go along with you. Alas, I just can’t do it. Every man has his limit.

I think it would behoove the denizens to turn DOB on to some cool stuff like Focus’s “Hocus Pocus” and Bob Dylan’s “Wigwam”. If DOB were to listen to those songs backwards, he’d discover the meaning of life and feverishly attempt to forget it. It might make for a crazy diatribe of a blog in the middle of the Dog Days, which means it would definitely be worth it.

By David O'Brien

July 12, 2007 1:39 AM | Link to this

TennPaul, actually it’s Thormie, not much but slightly better than Thory (which would be tragic if someone actually called him that).

But that’s just Cox. Players don’t call him Thormie. It’s Thor.

And McCann is B-Mac or, to his friends, “Heap.” (Because he’s so sloppy, his stuff is usually in heaps everywhere.)

Andruw is “Dru” to most players, or just Andruw, but not Andy to anyone except Cox, who I’ve only heard call him that once or twice, and not in a long time. Bobby calls him Andruw, for the most part.

By Robert

July 12, 2007 1:49 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Since your around the team all the time, what is you gut feeling regarding Salty. Will they make him the everyday 1B, or is he trade bait. Please let us know what you think/hear.

Thanks for the great work

By P-Town Brave

July 12, 2007 2:33 AM | Link to this

Good call on the moving one of the two studs to LF DOB…we’ve actually been in thorough discussion on Bill Shanks’ board about all of this…

I think Escobar would be better suited at this point to move out to LF…there have been frequent comparisons to a young Alfonso Soriano, which I love…If he ends up w/ that kind of power, we’ve struck gold, but for now this would be my opening day lineup next year:

1) Escobar lf
2) Renteria ss
3) Johnson 2b
4) C Jones 3b
5) Francoeur rf
6) McCann c
7) Rowand cf
8) Saltalamacchia 1b

And yes, that is correct that you see Rowand in there…I really think he’d be a perfect fit it there replacing Druw…

My top 3 selections for cf would be:

1) Rowand 2) Byrnes 3) Internal (Escobar to cf; B Jones to lf)

By Coach (Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 12, 2007 2:51 AM | Link to this

Bob , LaRussa wasn’t playing to win in the ninth and he lost. Cox would not have made that mistake , he would have let Pujols bat and if the N.L. would have still lost nobody would be second guessing him. Of course , Pujols never got the opportunity and we will never know what would have happened. But , like you alluded to already Bob , how did a manager with 32 players on his roster get himself into such a player shortage in the first place ?

By jed

July 12, 2007 2:56 AM | Link to this

ptown brave

now there’s an interesting idea—moving escobar to CF. he’s fast and he’s got a strong arm and great instincts. have him learn it in the off-season. yeah. i like that idea much more than moving him to LF, which doesnt seem to utilize his athleticism enough. (i’d rather move KJ back to LF than escobar.)

glad that texiera talk isnt gonna happen. paying ANYBODY 20 million is ridiculous, and ultimately counter-productive. why not just give salty 1b, call up pena as a backup catcher, and forget about it? swear to gawd … if i see thorman out there at 1b in the 2nd half i’m gonna join up with robert (god forbid) and form my own anti-cox conferacy of dunces.

By P-Town Brave

July 12, 2007 3:07 AM | Link to this

Agree about the Tex thing Jed

Why would we be willing to part w/ Salty and get Tex for about 1 1/2 years only to lose him to free agency when he asks for a contract close to what Druw will get this off-season…

Besides, as far as I’m concerned, offensively Salty is just as good…and defensively he will get better…just needs a little time…I mean look at what we did w/ KJ at 2b.

I can envision Yunel in the OF though because of all the comparisons that have been made between him and Soriano…his athleticism does match…

What do you think about Rowand though for CF?

By Coach (Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 12, 2007 3:18 AM | Link to this

Concerning Scott Thorman , when Salty catches , the Braves simply do not have anybody else anymore capable than Thorman. Which is a glaring flaw on the team.

By Coach (Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 12, 2007 3:29 AM | Link to this

Get the picture people. Francoeur , McCann , Saltalamacchia , Escobar , K.Johnson , Lillibridge , G. Blanco , B. Jones , B. Pena , Thorman and then the veteran players in C. Jones , Diaz , Renteria and Harris. Rowand is not needed , the Braves already have more talent than they know what to do with.

By P-Town Brave

July 12, 2007 4:04 AM | Link to this

Well Harris is ONLY on a 1-yr contract and may not be back next year Coach and Blanco hasn’t really proved anything other than he has Juan Pierre type power

By Matthew

July 12, 2007 4:25 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB,

Sorry to hear you had to spend the day at SFO. I’m a GA native who now lives in SF- shoot me an email when you are back in town in a couple weeks for the 4 game set and I’ll buy you a beer if you give me some good clubhouse info.

Go Bravos!

Matthew

By Bill

July 12, 2007 4:49 AM | Link to this

That’s a great idea to move Escobar to CF next year and B.Jones in LF. Spend big on pitching in off season. Big Z of the Cubs would be good. He’s a fireball and a horse. They need hard throwers to mix in with soft tossers. Keep Renteria one more year. Andrus should be ready by 09.

By Coach (Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 12, 2007 5:27 AM | Link to this

I think Willie Harris will be back next year. I’m not so sure about Bob Wickman. Andruw is gone for certain , but his 14 million will be eaten up by the raises of Smoltz , Hudson and salary arbitration for the rest of the team. The Braves might have to sacrifice Wickman’s six million unless the payroll is significantly increased. Gregor Blanco is fast , plays great defense , hits for average but he isn’t a power hitter. The Braves need another arm right now , three solid starters isn’t going to get it done (Smoltz , Hudson , James) and I have little faith in Davies and Carlyle. Smoltz is on the DL and his arm will be questionable for the rest of the season. Chipper has to stay healthy because Andruw can’t carry the team anymore. In fact , the team is carrying him at the moment.

By Coach (Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

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

The pitching matchup’s are out and no surprise to me , the Pirates are throwing two lefty’s at us. RH Ian Snell vs RH Tim Hudson on Friday. LH Tom Gorzelanny vs LH Chuck James on Saturday. LH Paul Maholm vs RH Buddy Carlyle on Sunday.

By Serbok

July 12, 2007 6:26 AM | Link to this

Kinda strange how a lot of people thought Salty AND Escobar needed a “lil more seasoning in the minors also? HMMMMMMMMMMMM

By keylargo25

July 12, 2007 6:52 AM | Link to this

Again I am going to say that Edgar Renteria is having an unsurpassed year at SS. How anyone could trade him with Boston picking up $4M of his salary this year and next year is beyond comprehension. We throw millions around like nothing but I would remind you that $4M per year is 5% of the total payroll budget.

By KC

July 12, 2007 7:02 AM | Link to this

Salty for Teixeira… DOB, this one was really credible enough to write about???

I can’t picture that happening in a million years. I don’t think Salty’s going anywhere for anything other than a quality starter.

By Tomahawkin' Again

July 12, 2007 7:20 AM | Link to this

Ricky Henderson named new hitting coach by the Muts. Hmmmm…the supposed best hitting team in the NL, they’re like an American League 1-8 from what we have heard, the best team in the NL according to ESPNYC makes this kind of change in mid-stream? Panic move. Now it’s up to the Bravos to really turn the screws on them in the next few weeks.

By ssiscribe

July 12, 2007 7:53 AM | Link to this

Top of the morning, denizens. One more day and it’s off into the pennant chase we go, starting with tomorrow night’s tilt at Turner Field.

(“Tilt.” Great sports writing word. Also, wasn’t that a bad show on ESPN?)

Now, ESPN (what transition!): At the gym this morning, saw the latest in the “What’s Now” garbage, eh, I mean competition: Derek Jeter vs. Sidney Crosby. The panel spent most of the time talking about how ridicilous it was to compare the captain of the New York Yankees to a hockey player (granted, Sid the Kid is great, even if I cannot stand the punk and would rather build a team around Ovechkin or Kovy or Hossa, but that’s a topic for Custance’s blog one of these days).

And while we’re on hockey, why must the Thrashers’ opener and division banner raising be Oct. 5, when I’ll likely be in Vegas? Oh well, I’ll have wall-to-wall playoff baseball and the Thrashers’ opener to watch (DOB, thanks for answering my e-mail question yesterday, by the way) while chillin’ in the desert.

Now, back to ESPN (long-winded transition; Scribe is struggling this morning): So, if comparing Jeter and Crosby is ridicilous, why are you wasting valuable time on SportsCenter talking about it? What a freaking joke.

Now, the Mets (better transition): Sorry, but I would not feel real confident if I was a Mets fan. Changing hitting coaches in midflight. Playing at a .405 clip since May 29. Hinging hope on Pedro’s fragile health. I personally think that ship is stalled, as the Braves start picking up steam.

That’s all for now. The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Lee

July 12, 2007 8:17 AM | Link to this

I remember when a lot of bloggers on here wanted Salty to go back to the minors for experience at 1st base. Don’t see any of those posts anymore. That move was never going to happen once he was brought up by the Braves anyway.

I could care less where K.J. bats in the line-up. Winning is all that is important. The bottom of the order has been weak for a large portion of the 1st half of the season. I kind of like him at the bottom. Of course if Thorman is put on the bench and used as a back up at first or even used as trade bait, it should help the bottom of the line-up just to get him out of the regular line up. Sorry the guy hustles, but he is not the future 1st baseman for the Atlanta Braves.

By Salty

July 12, 2007 8:23 AM | Link to this

Ricky Henderson = hitting coach? That’s an oxymoron! How can Ricky be about Ricky (and we know he is!) and be a coach?

By Will

July 12, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this

I agree with Kelly Johnson going back to leadoff when he plays. As usual just another head scratching move by Cox. I understand/applaud the platoon with Escobar, but why in the world is Johnson batting seventh when he does play? I am very happy to see Rickey Henderson as Mets hitting coach, i cannot possibly imagine that guy effectively coaching players.

By ACB

July 12, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this

There’s this new candidate, from Delaware, Hew Hampshire, I thiink. His name is Joe Abidin’. The name says it all.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 8:42 AM | Link to this

Paladin has re-entered the bldg. I still take “protonix” and my name when I am in SF is “L.M. Hull” but I have definitely burned the “Santini” robes. They smelled as if they had been worn before by someone with strong body-odor. I, personally, take a lye-soap bath down at the stream every night.

I come in peace

By Jeff R

July 12, 2007 8:56 AM | Link to this

Braves have plenty of young, talented postion players. What about pitching? That’s my concern. Not yet seeing a lot of kids bubbling up through the system that have impact.

Let’s hope that Liberty Media is sensible enough to boost the Braves payroll by $20 million next season. $100 million is the low end of what a team needs these days to run with the big dogs.

Escobar at second? He should get plenty of playing time at 3rd. Chipper’ no longer a 150-game player. This season is just a little more than half over. Let’s see how the grind treats him through September.

By The Grinch

July 12, 2007 8:59 AM | Link to this

Welcome, Paladin. Personally I avoid bathing whenever possible. That, also, helps keep the deer away, and other forms of whitetail as well. :-)

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this

Mornin’ Grinch. Unforunately, not bathing tends to keep other forms of “tail” away, too. (:>)

By flange1

July 12, 2007 9:09 AM | Link to this

Hey Grinch,

Did your guitar come in? We need a review!

Lew,

All good here, just too much work. So Robert is a real person, that is amazing!

Paladin-Protonix- whomever,

Whatever dude. Have fun with your name changing game! Cause all of the trouble that you enjoy so much.

On Baseball,

I kind of like the idea of moving KJ back to left. Let Diaz be your top RH PH and 4th outfielder. Let Willie be your top LH PH and make him your centerfield sub and let him be the top infield backup. Cut Woodward, bring up Pena and keep the extra pitcher. Use Pena as an extra backup at 1B, 3B and outfield. I think this makes the team stronger and more versatile.

Thanks DOB for another great blog!

By Mark C.

July 12, 2007 9:11 AM | Link to this

What’s a Pepsi?

By Bob, Journalist

July 12, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this

I played both Short and Center during my high school years and a little sandlot … and from my perspective, being good at one don’t mean squat about how you’re going to do at the other.

Speed, a good arm, and the ability to quickly react are certainly requisite tool set elements for Third, Short or any of the outfield positions … but the outfielder’s tool set is complex and includes exceptional vision; the ability to anticipate and recognize, at the crack of the bat, the destination and flight of the ball, taking into account the impact of slicing and hooking, top spin and wind … the ability to quickly refocus; to pick the ball up in the sun and under the lights, both early and late in its flight … to come in and to go back … to sense exactly when and how to dive for the ball, and when to leap and stretch high over the wall.

While some might think that simple and others think it complex, it’s certainly an oversimplification … for each of those elements involves its own special little matrix of skills … and then, most importantly, everything must work together smoothly … instinctively.

Obviously there are no fixed lines of demarcation so the outfielder must be able to effectively coordinate with others in his efforts to catch or retrieve the ball … methinks more so than with the other positions where the ball is more quickly upon the player.

It may be a minority opinion, but I would think it would be difficult to judge a player’s potential as an outfielder until all of these areas were carefully examined … certainly many things can be successfully taught and refined and good athletes can usually adapt and become adequate … but whether the finished product is a sparkling gem or just a dull imitation depends on the raw material.

I’ll all for finding positions for good players to play and fill our needs but with the very gifted ones, it’s especially important that the place they’re put doesn’t turn extra special into above average or even mediocre.

Just dropped in to say howdy … off to Brentwood to see how many banks I have to rob in order to get my car fixed!

By daxxed

July 12, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this

Don’t leverage the Braves future for a maybe, that seems to be injury prone as well. Given time and another year and Salty could become as good a first baseman as Texiara, and he sure has the power capabilities. And besides what a great thing too have a first baseman that can catch as well.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 9:15 AM | Link to this

flange1 I am in a turn-the-other-cheek mode, for now. You have a good day, y’hear?

By Braveheart

July 12, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

flange1, paladin is cool. the two of us had a knock ‘em down, drag ‘em out all night over at the email saloon. that’s really why he is burning that robe. it’s useless to him now that it got soaked with both of our blood.

no, just kidding, he is a gentleman and that unpleasantness has all been worked out - fairly easily, actually. Dude is cool with me and a friend again - not that anyone cares too much what i think.

By The Grinch

July 12, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this

Paladin, that was what I was referring to. Glad to know I’m not the only crude SOB on the blog.

Flange, it is in and I’m going to pick it up as soon as I get out of here (about 11-ish). I will promptly post my review as well as that of my new amp (a 120-watt Line 6 Spider II). Have no fear. Indeed, my neighbors will be the only ones afeared. :-)

By Bob, Journalist

July 12, 2007 9:35 AM | Link to this

Lee, I think there are still those who think Salty and Yunel both would benefit from from more seasoning and development … but, few believe that it could happen because of the marketing dynamic.

Methinks belaboring the point under such conditions would be as inane as it is fruitless.

Certainly, there are others, including myself, that feel that it would be in their best interest but think that the contribution that they can currently make is too important for the Braves to seriously consider so doing.

By Amber

July 12, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

DOB, that mini “Salty for Teixeria” blurb you wrote led off the daily newsletter today. It gave me a heart attack when I opened my mail and saw only “Salty for.” Not a great way to start the day!

By Shaun

July 12, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

did I hear you correctly … do you believe that we should take into account the fact or probability that a player could have been great even if they had not cheated?

In school, those who cheated got zeros on their papers, even them what could have gotten 99 had they not wanted 100.

Bob, I think the issue is a little more complicated than that.

Steroids are obviously illegal drugs and I would have liked for any baseball player who used/uses steroids to go to jail.

Unfortunately I imagine it’s pretty hard for the authorities to gather enough evidence to convict someone of steroid use. You can’t just search somebody’s home for no good reason.

And there was absolutely no testing in baseball until 2002 and the didn’t have a policy for suspending players until 2005.

Obviously the players who used are to blame mostly for the widespread use of PEDs because they are the users. But you could argue a lot of people should have at least suspected something and done something. Now there’s not much that can be done about it other than enforce a stronger policy (although there are still things out there for which there are no reliable tests).

I have not doubt that PEDs affected performance, but it’s hard to know how much and to what degree and how.

I’m not denying that a player like Bonds is innocent or that he shouldn’t be scrutinized or that he isn’t a jerk and a disgusting person. I think we should definitely think of the HR record, once he gets it, with a dark cloud, imaginary asterisk, whatever.

I’m not saying ignore what went on over the last 10-15 years. But it’s kind of silly now to throw out all the records and stats from that era. If you are going to single out the HR record and take away that, you have to wipe away a lot of the stats from that era—I imagine pitchers used, hitters used, some HR hitters used, some singles hitters used, some power pitchers used, some finesse pitchers used.

Also, I think it’s silly to pretend Bonds wasn’t a great player without steriods. Would he have broken the HR record? I’ll gladly admit probably not. But which of his stats do we take away and which do we not? At what point do we decide his or anyone else’s stats don’t count?

I believe that Bonds was one of the top two or three LF of all-time without steroids. And I believe he was one of the top five or six players without steroids.

I understand the argument that Bonds cheated but as wrong as I think it is, baseball didn’t test for PEDs during a lot of Bonds’s career. And even if baseball had tested, I don’t know if he would have tested positive because he had the money to get the “best” stuff, the stuff that couldn’t be detected. So in a weird, screwed-up sense he never actually cheated.

So, as I said, I think the best we can do is think of the entire era with a dark-cloud, imaginary asterisk, whatever.

I know it’s not really the same (because I don’t know that there is any evidence he did anything illegal) but it’s similar to Charles Radbourn’s single season wins record for pitchers of 59 wins in 1884. I think we have to acknowledge it was a great season for him but we have this imaginary asterisk because it was a different game in 1884.

Also, as I said yesterday, and I also know it’s not exactly the same either but it would be kind of silly to erase Ruth’s HR total and assume he wouldn’t have set the record because of the injustice of segregation.

The HR record really is just a number. As has always been done throughout history, we have to just let history decide what it really means. Once more and more information comes to light, we’ll know more and more what the numbers of this era mean.

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 9:48 AM | Link to this

The Braves are fat in some places, thin in others. I applaud BCox for making the best out of what he’s got, but Salty is a catcher, not a 1B. How long can we go without a true 1B. Not even considering the offensive impact, Thorman is killing us defensively and in ways you don’t even notice. Salty is a player but he’s playing out of position, so it remains to be seen if he’ll adjust well to 1B. I think we should find a 1B for defense’ sake as our marginal pitching staff really needs a good defense back there.

I love Renteria’s bat, but I am one that believes his defensive skills are average. Again, with a marginal staff, the defense needs to excellent.

Hey DOB,

We should call Thorman by the nickname NON. That’s the name of the Superman 2 character that was a big oaf with no brain. You could refer to him as a NON-hitter and definately a NON-fielder.

By Braveheart

July 12, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this

Bob, I agree with your 9:14. Although I speculated about the ability of Escobar playing center next year, how would anyone know if he could handle it until he played out there for a significant period of time?

When I was a kid I was the dork who played the outfield all the time but I was good out there. Got sick of it and demanded to play the infield and was just okay there. Then I moved to pitcher and was good there. But then I tried to play the outfield again and was completely clueless because I had not seen a fly ball or tailing liner in years and had no clue how to judge them anymore, doubt in yourself then sinks in, and you become useless out there.

Escobar is a far better athlete I ever was obviously. But there is alot of skill, training, and experience that goes into playing a critical position like center, so maybe putting Escobar out there would not be too good until we see he could handle at least left field.

What better time now with Druw roaming center and Willie cooling off?

It could be similar to finding a place for Miguel Cabrera to play while Mike Lowell was playing third.

By Will

July 12, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

How is Scott Thorman killing the Braves defensively at first? I dont like him at all, but what is he doing? I think he is a decent 1B, did you see the plays he made against SD last sunday night? I am not saying he is great defensively, but how is he killing the Braves?

By Manley Pierson

July 12, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

Is this the Will and Grace blog? It looks like a baseball blog to me but I heard that you talk Will and Grace here. I’ll start it off: I think Will was confused and should have taken Grace on the cruise himself rather than trusting a dear friend to escort her. That’s what I think and I’d love to hear from you! I am so excited that there is a Will and Grace blog now!

By Shaun

July 12, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

Bob,

One more thing: It seems the law or the powers that be in baseball can’t do much to Bonds or anyone else as far as punishment (or at least can’t do much without spending a lot more time and money and trouble than it’s worth). The next best thing is for his reputation to be tainted, as it is.

I think the best we can do is get the truth out there and let it speak for itself and attach the context to the new HR record for the coming generations to see. I think that’s what will happen.

Don’t worry, the HR record is just a number as long as people continue to attach the context to it and don’t look at it in a simplistic way.

I’m a big believer in stats (obviously) but they are meaningless without context.

Just like I don’t think Hank Aaron is any more prolific a HR hitter than Ruth just because he holds the HR record (with all due respect to Hank Aaron, obviously an amazing player and a class act), I don’t think Bonds is any more prolific a HR hitter than Ruth or Aaron.

By AthensBrave

July 12, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this

I’d like to see us pick up Dimitri young for someone not named Jared or Yunel

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

July 12, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this

Rumor is the A’s are shopping young 1st baseman Dan Johnson. He’s a long way from free agency and his some pretty good “pop.” IF Salty were traded for pitching, this second move might ease the pain.

By UVABrave

July 12, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this

DOB, I really like the new Ryan Adams album. I’m still getting into it, but Goodnight Rose and Halloweenhead stuck out to me immediately. Unfortunately, I just missed his show up here in VA, but I determined to catch his next one.

Quick Salty/McCann question. I know it sounds a little crazy, but has there been any thought given to maybe letting McCann play a little 1st. It seems logical to me that some sort of catcher rotation between McCann and Salty would be a good idea(McCann catches 3 games and then Salty catches 2…with the other playing 1st). I think it would save McCann’s legs and keep him from getting banged up, and it would allow Salty to keep his catching skills (which could prove valuable in a trade). Obviously, we’d lose some D at 1st, but it’s not like Thorman is a defensive gem over there. Anyways, just a thought.

By the way, I completely agree with you on moving KJ to OF next season (or even this season is Harris starts slipping). I think a lineup where we could have KJ, Escobar, Renteria, and Chipper in at the same time would be pretty solid.

By Paladin

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

I was accused(and probably rightfully)of not posting enough “baseball” so I will paraphrase something I posted yesterday(?).

I think the Braves should stand pat unless one of the other GMs comes to JS with a blockbuster(no, not a movie)deal that he can’t refuse. That’s my humble opine.

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this

Will,

Have you been watching what I’ve been watching? He did make a good play in the stands, but that appears to be an abberation. Get with it man!! Can anybody else see where Thorman is solid defensively?

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this

Oh, mornin’ BRAVEheart. Sleep well?

By flange1

July 12, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

Paladin, OK that’s is cool with me. As long as you aren’t stinky all is good

Braveheart, thanks for the info!

Grinch, looking forward to you review! Do you like active EMG’s? They have never been my thing. Have you tried the new 50 wall Marshall 2 CH vintage modern amp? I am hearing nothing but good things about these heads…

By Braveheart

July 12, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

this won’t surprise many that know my morals and ethics BUT if you were playing the steroid era, how could you not take steroids? Look at Giambi. Would he have received a $120 million contract without steroids? Or would he have been lucky to make $20 million throughout the course of his entire career. Those fellas were competing and the game was not regulating the use of that “stuff.” Not taking it for most of them was not competing.

Look at Randy Velarde - a very useful utility player throughout the late 80s and early 90s. His career was sputtering because everyone around him was taking steroids and he was not. He most likely added another 5, 7 years to his career by taking them and keeping up with the competition. Used to be that a middle infielder and utility man could get away with hitting 5 t 10 homers a season and we would all credit him for having pop in his bat. But then during the steroid era, you had to give the team 15 to 20 homers or you had best start looking over your shoulder. Don’t know if Velarde took ‘em or not but I have every reason to suspect such.

Plus, as much as I don’t personally like Bonds, I think Bonds should have just said to everyone what the truth was. McGwire and Sosa became THE stars in 1998. Bonds was sitting there looking at them, like I was far better than McGwire when we played in the Pac-10 together. I have been far better than McGwire and Sammy throughout the minors and majors for over a decade but now they are getting all the acclaim, money, love, and respect and I am not when I am better than they are. So he got mad and decided that he needed to keep up with the Joneses if he wanted to keep competing at the level he was used to. Vanity, pride, money got the best of him.

The problem was that he was so far and above better than everyone else that when he was taking steroids, it became a joke, it was so obscene. It could no longer be ignored because of his stature and how freaking good he was.

But I think Bonds should have just came out a few years ago and plainly said what the truth was and that he unfortunately let pride, vanity, greed, and his competitive nature get the best of him. I think people would have been more understanding.

Unfortunately, the stinkin’ witch huntin’ feds have made that impossible for him, Giambi, and others. Giambi wants to talk. I betcha McGwire definitely does too. But they can’t. They can’t risk years in prison. If the feds would call the whole thing off, we would all be better off because we would finally get the truth, and the game would be cleaned up, and we all could move on.

By Manley Pierson

July 12, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this

Shaun, do you like Will and Grace? Do you enjoy a good mimosa during the show like I do? What are the statistical chances of the show coming back?

By Braveheart

July 12, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

Paladin, I agree with you completely that they should stand pat. The only trade I would really make is to get a pitcher who can give the braves an ERA of 4.50 or so, eat innings, and allow the Braves and their offense to win about 50 to 55% of his starts. That is really all they need because they are really being killed right now by the fact they are 9-17 when Smoltz, Hudson, James, and Buddy don’t take the mound.

But, then again, I think the Braves are 45-34 right now when Smoltz, Hudson, James, Davies, and Buddy take the mound, so maybe they have it figured out for the rest of the season pretty good already?

By Will

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

Tampa Brave, Yes i watch and i did not say he is great, but he is a serviceable fist baseman. Dont let that fool you though i hate Thorman, i think he is a terrible player overall, but he is not a brutal first basemen defensively. I am actually starting to wonder if you watch games how much you want to get rid of Renteria. You say he is bad defensively??? Again he is not the absolute best but he is just fine.

By Will

July 12, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

Ps: Did you not see the TWO diving plays he made at first to rob hits on Sunday night?? Man i hate Thorman and cannot believe i am arguing for him, but there is no simple fix for this team. Furthermore, why in the world can Salty not become a first basemen over time??

By Braveheart

July 12, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this

Here is what I thought was a really good article by one of my favorite columnists Mark Kriegel (he wrote those Namath and Pistol Pete books):

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7011396

By Braveheart

July 12, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Paladin, yeah, slept well.

Flange1, as always, we needed the Dude to get Walter not to shoot Smokey.

By MurphyRules

July 12, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this

Anyone who questions Renteria’s defense loses all credibility. Leave the blog. Go listen to some Bryan Adams. You don’t belong here.

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

Will,

Pete Smith pitched a gem every once in a while, but I did not ever consider him a good starter. He dives and makes a play here and there, but he also has made some bonehead plays too. You can’t be so so with this staff. Let me be clear, I like Renteria but I am honest when I say his defense could be better. The point is the Braves are overstocked in some positions and we are at a fork in the road where we need to settle the issue and make the team better as a whole.

By TheSouthernJackAss

July 12, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Ahh, TheJackAss is feelin’ good today…had lightnin’ for breakfast…be crappin’ thunder later tonight…just another beautiful day bloggin’ with myself…

Had a brisk, albeit successful jackal hunt during the previous blog…a young whelp from flushed from it’s lair…and put to the chase by the hounds of hell…ultimately the pest was mercilessly, if not mortally, wounded…

I’m sure that the bedraggled, rapacious beast is still lurking nearby…but as long as it doesn’t re-enter the domain of TheJackAss, then maybe it will live to blog another day…

I’ve heard that a leopard can’t change it’s spots…but I think it’s a tryin’…just goes to show, if you’re going to dance with lightning, you better wear your rubber shoes…

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

Braveheart: Great article! I loved the Dodgers when they played in Brooklyn. I guess the “yankee” in their chief rival’s name had a lot to do with it. Duke, Pee Wee and Gil were my heroes. But, when they fled to the left coast, they lost me. I quickly became, and still am, a big Braves fan.

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

MurphyRules,

Who are you? George Bush

Stop being a homer and look objectively. It’s not that he makes slews of errors, and he does make a few, its the range and ability to throw out runners within that range. If a ball goes in the hole, it’s usually a hit, even though Edgar cleanly fields it and makes a valiant throw. Bottom line!! A baserunner on 1st. I call em like I see em!!

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

TOO MANY DEER IN THE WOODS!!!

LET’S GO HUNTIN’

By Will

July 12, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

No argument about Pete Smith! I know Scott Thorman is bad, i hate him, but i have seen worse. You dont answer why Salty cant play first? The braves have to find a spot for him and Mccann in the lineup together for several years to come. What is wrong with being patient on the trades? There is not much out there and as i have said til i am blue in the face i love the braves, but i do not think there is anything they can do tradewise to make this team a world series contender. You are flat out wrong with Renteria, he is an above average defensive shortstop who has won gold glove. Of course he could be better, he could make no errors, but that is not going to happen for anyone. The lowest amount of errors among NL shortstops is 5, Renteria has 7, which is still better then most. No way in a million years will i agree with this renteria garbage.

By Lew

July 12, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this

Que sera, sera-Will it not? If there’s a trade to be made, I’m sure JS will make it. Knowing htat a substantial chunk of change is available is a heartening situation. Now Stinky-I think everyone here, even Stinky realizes that I have a pretty finely honed Stinky radar. IF in fact, The Blogger known as Stinky has returned, it is definitely in a kinder, gentler incarnation. I haven’t seen anyone really trying to blow up the blog recently. I they had, I”m sure it is pretty well known what I would have called him, n’est ce pas?

By Will

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

Tampa Brave, I have been trying to give you the benefit of the doubt. I am thinking this guy is a brave fan too, he cannot be this clueless, but apparently i was wrong. Why arent you throwing around the Mccann for Texiera ideas today??

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Forgive an old man’s reminisces, but this came to mind about that era(Dodger’s in Brooklyn, etc.).

Ralph Kiner(Pirates)had won the Home Run King award and was “holding out.” The GM(whose name I can’t remember)said, “We finished last with you, we can damn sure finish last without you!” Kiner signed for what was offered.

Too bad baseball isn’t like that now. I’m not talking about indentured servitude; I’m talking about to hell with your individual statistics, what did you do to help this team win?!

By Lew

July 12, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

I’ll say this about Scott Thorman’s defense. His range is not great and he is not sterling defensively. However. His fielding pct. this season so far is .991. This is very comparable to most starting 1B in the league and is right on for his career avg. No, he isn’t great and no he’s no Roachy, but the guy is quite serviceable and not bad at all. Maybe if you had seen Dick Stuart (alias Dr. Strangeglove) play, you’d realize it can always be worse than Thor.

By HP

July 12, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

Does anyone think that Muts are so rude that they don’t even give an explanation to the hitting coach Rick Down why is he getting fired? I am thinking he is getting fired because they are in sixth in batting average in NL becuase of injuries to Moises Alou, Shawn Green,Jose Valentin, etc. That is really terrible. The reason they are losing lately because of their pitching, not hitting. I guess it is better for the braves since Muts will have a Rookie hitting coach and the Braves will take over the NL East.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

All truces I made under “other” names are carryovers, ma foi. Is that cool with you, Lew?

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

Will,

I think we agree more than we disagree.

On Renteria, its simple. He is a great hitter and looking at the stats he looks ok on paper defensively. I’ll give you that. All I am saying is that the area covered by Renteria is below average. He gets to some balls but can’t throw them out unless Greg Lusinski is running. Those plays go as hits. Pay attention!! On half of those he goes into the hole for should be outs with a better armed SS. Because I believe this does not mean I don’t like him and trading him would be a calculated risk beacause he is a great clutch hitter, but the organization is overloading on SSs and potential doesn’t hold trade value. If we ever traded him, and Yunel took over and excelled, you’d look back on it and say by trading a known commodity, we were able to get more value for the team and not lose any ground at SS. That would be the definition of a good trade, however, if a trade was made and Yunel tanked, just the opposite. What it comes down to is, what will Yunel Do(WWYD)?

As far as salty, I think we are trying to put a square peg in a round hole for convenience’s sake. Let the man do what he was born to do. Remember Johnny Estrada and Javy Lopez. I was among those who thought, what the hell are we doing?, but good talent allows you to do these things. Same with Salty. If anything, I’d try McCann at first because he seems to get too banged up and has a bad ankle. Could be habitual if catching.

By Lew

July 12, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Paladin-I seek blog harmony. That’s why I do Wurlitzer prizes. Doesn’t mean I can’t be just as contentious as the next guy, but without provocation, I’m that big old Teddy Bear that Braveheart discribes. Coach and Efrim I give grief to on general principles, just like they do to me. It’s expected and we all probably thrive on the controversy. Other than that, no attacks, no reprisal. Works for me.

By Braveheart

July 12, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

TOO MANY DEER IN THE WOODS!!! LET’S GO HUNTIN’

not me, i wait until my car is old and junky and i owe on it more than its worth if i sold it, then i let my hoopety do my huntin’ for me when one of them suckers gets into my headlights. i’m just lazy, immoral, and unethical like that.

the insurance companies are never happy with my style of huntin’ but then i ain’t ever happy either with the huntin’ they do on my bank account every month either.

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Will,

I am insulted. Nobody is a bigger Braves fan than me. Never miss a game that’s televised. Many times when it is not televised, I rack the game on CBSSportsline or MLB.com.

I have my opinions as do you. I think Thorman(NON) is a musclehead and the head being empty. Nothing personal, I just don’t think he cuts the mustard. He even appears to struggle with a pickoff attempt from the pitcher.

The Tex for McCann or Renteria Makes perfect sense IF you get him locked up for additional years. The consensus was that this would be unlikely. But if it could be done, we would be a better team because we have people ready to fill those slots(SS & C).

By Braveheart

July 12, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Paladin, agree with your 11:15 for the most part.

BUT if anyone is gonna get the money they’re stealing from us, I would much rather it be the millionaire ballplayers who used to be middle class and lower class schmucks like us than the billionaire corporate owners of the team.

By Will

July 12, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

Wow, i actually agree with you about Mccann!! I have been telling friends for weeks that Salty (minus pitch calling experience) is a better catcher then Mccann. I actually dont even think its a question that he is better. With salty i am always under the impression that you can teach a great athlete a wide variety of positions. If Ryan Klesko could move from first to left and not totally flop, then either Mccann or Salty can move to first. I think both those guys are talents that do not come along often and it would be a brutal mistake to trade either of them. I guess i see your point with Renteria as well, although all i am saying is there is no way he is going to be traded during the season. Bottom line is Escobar and salty need to stay with the Braves, there is nothing worth giving these guys up for. Why trade a future great team for a shot at going home in the playoffs? Making the playoffs is no longer exciting to braves fans. I am win the world series or bust. I cant take getting kicked in the stomach in the first round anymore, its not even worth it.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

OK, that settles it. From here on out, like Shane, I’m just a homesteadin’ dirt-farmer. My guns(well-oiled)will be placed in my footlocker where they will stay unless a Jack Wilson-type starts picking on me, Stonewall or one of my other buddies. ITMT, **DON’T wire Paladin in SF, I’m retired.

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

Braveheart,

LMAO!!!!!

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, I just think that both should be accountable. No fight, old friend.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

July 12, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

I found a picture of Grinch at his house trying to keep the deer out of his roses. Check it out (May have to scroll down):

http://www.arkoutdoors.com/forum/index.php?topic=2419.new#new

By Efrim

July 12, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Lew,

I am not as negative as Coach. I still think this is a good team that will make the playoffs. I just don’t hate on the Mets and think they are a scrub team like you do. I truly believe they are a better team than we are. But it’s cool. Wild card winners, face the Padres in the first round, beat them in four games. Mets in the NLCS, beat them in 7 games. Tigers in the WS and take them in 6. Its perfect.

All:

If Hudson has a poor second half, like 4-7 with a 4.50 ERA, should we deal him this offseason. 2 years and 26 million left on his contract. Now I am just asking if we should deal the guy IF he has a bd second half, not saying he will. But should we if he struggles?

We can trade him for a young pitcher, say Adam Miller from the Indians, and then use the money to fill other needs. A starter to replace him. Of course this is if the guy struggles. What do you guys think?

By Ron Roberts

July 12, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

DO’B… your reply to my question yesterday was a bit snide and was uncalled for. But, because you set the tone, some @ss clown(s) then followed up your incivility with posts, using my name, to continue the mockery.

Good job.

It’s called speculating, and we all do a good bit of it, here, and I don’t think they all have to be answered in such a crass fashion.

Love the blog; appreciate your input. Really disappointed in the reply, though.

By DAP

July 12, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

tampabrave Thorman is killing us defensively and in ways you don’t even notice.

are you saying that NOBODY notices how he hurts us, and if thats what you mean, how do you know hes hurting us if you havent noticed? OR, do you mean nobody but YOU notices how he hurts us…if thats what youre saying than you are extremly arrogant. i doubt you are seeing anything thorman does that i am not, while while hes no laroche, hes ok over at first…no worse than most team’s 1st baseman.

I love Renteria’s bat, but I am one that believes his defensive skills are average.

really? because i think youre wrong renteria isnt the best shortstop ive ever seen, but he is among them, and has made some of the most spectacular plays over there i have seen. most experts says hes a pretty darn good shortstop. not the best…but pretty darn good.

By Shaun

July 12, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

Hudson’s deal is not an awful one. As long as he’s halfway decent, it’s fine.

If he struggles too badly, I don’t think the Braves would be able to trade him for any value.

The Braves certainly wouldn’t be able to trade him for a young pitcher with any talent. Talented, young pitchers are very difficult to trade for anyway. A team is certainly not going to give up one for a slightly-above-average, fairly expensive, older starter.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

Hillbilly That’s funny. But, isn’t there an old old “confuscious” proverb about he who pees in his own teepee…? Does that apply to hottubs as well?

By Braveheart

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

Paladin, fine, be like Shane but what if someday you have to be like Unforgiven Eastwood? And you are forgiven, my friend, I’m just wondering.

And you are right both sides should be accountable. But I do get angry with those that say Hampton should not have that money. He pitches his heart out when healthy and I would rather him have that money than some faceless corporate ownership group.

As for our Vermont Teddy Bear, someday the Wurlitzer recipients are gonna have to pay back Teddy by ordering a customized bear from the Vermont Teddy Bear Company for him:

http://www.vermonteddybear.com/

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Will,

If the organization stays pat, then the upside is you have backups for both Chipper and McCann, the two with the most nagging injuries.

Hudson has been a big disappointment and its hard for me to believe he started becoming marginalized when he came here. Did scouting screw up or is the infield defense worse than his years in Oakland? Did he hurt his arm? He still gets a decent number of ground balls, but seem to be perfectly placed.

By Shaun

July 12, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

When the speculation is totally unrealistic, I think people are going to call you out. Especially someone like DOB who’s been half inside the game for a while.

By Will

July 12, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

DAP, Yeah he was talking to me, i guess i am incapable of noticing these things. I was arguing just as you are that he is a serviceable 1B, i have seen worse! Oh and i am also told i am not able to see how renteria can never throw runners out on balls hit in the hole and that is why he is an average shortstop. I agree with everything you say and have been posting that to that guy for two days straight.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, check some of your copies where I got furious with these braindeads who are continually picking at Hampton, and the trade. The guy is hurt, but when he goes to the mound he gives it everything he has. What MORE can you ask of a guy!?

By Richard Boone

July 12, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Paladin, I’ll thank you in advance for not traveling with your gums.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

And one more thing before I break for my noonday gruel: Braveheart, if that Unforgiven scenario does come up, will you be my Morgan Freeman? I’ll need some good backup.

By WakeUp

July 12, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

I guess it is better for the braves since Muts will have a Rookie hitting coach and the Braves will take over the NL East.

Of all the stupid comments on this blog, this one takes the cake. Yeah, that’s right—the all-important hitting coach balance has tipped! Please. Will Rickey Henderson make the Mets better? Maybe, maybe not. But it isn’t really going to be a factor. Stop grasping at straws. And, for all the smack you guys are talking about the Mets. have you noticed that Atlanta’s pitching staff consists of an injured ace, an ineffective Hudson, and then three crap shoots in a row? The Mets have problems, certainly. The Braves have more.

By DAP

July 12, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

will whoops, looks like i intercepted a message intended for you…but for the record, i think hes wrong about you. at least i hope hes not the ONLY person that can watch a game and know whats going on. of course, as he also mentioned, hes the biggest braves fan out there…the greatest ever. im glad he feels so good about himself. me, i have to wake up every moning, look in the mirror and say “gosh darn it! people LIKE me!”

By Lee

July 12, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

Wild card winners, face the Padres in the first round, beat them in four games. Mets in the NLCS, beat them in 7 games. Tigers in the WS and take them in 6. Its perfect

In a perfect world that is perfect; however, we by far live in a perfect world. Winning the division should still be and I am sure is the first concern for the Braves. If they continue to win the wild card should take care of itself regardless. The Padres and Brewers are both better teams than the Mets to me and I would prefer the Braves playing the Brewers and let the Padres and Mets slug it out against one another. Don’t know why everyone is so high on the Mets - this team is not that good overall. Of course look at the Cardinals last year - were they really that good. I really think they were the worst team to win the classic since the Dodgers beat the A’s years ago.

By Lew

July 12, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Efrim-Dude, I know you’re not as negative as the Wrecking Ball Leveled Blogger. As far as Hudson and a bad second half. I think we need to look at this in context. He will be due about $13 mil, give or take a few bucks, each of the next couple of years. Yes, it is a substantial amount of $$$, but these days, it will buy you a number 2-3 starter, at best. If Hudson goes .500 for the rest of the year, that would probably put him in #3 territory, which is about how he would be paid. Can you really find anyone better for that money? Maybe, but I’m not so sure. Now last night DOB said we may have as much as $10-20 mil to spend for help. Under THOSE circumstances, someone like Vasquez, who is signed for three more years, might be a good pickup, especially if we could get him without giving up Salty or Escobar, who I think we will need for the next few years-but Contreras, as Coach suggests, is ridiculous to even consider, as he’s doing no better than Davies and cost 8 times as much, or more. The reason I would tend to stand pat would be the cost of who we might get and the desire to keep our major young prospects-not that I think an extra part or two wouldn’t help.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

Jackals, jackals everywhere. When will they stop—who cares?

By Shaun

July 12, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave,

Tim Hudson’s BABIP is fairly consistent in Oakland and Atlanta so I don’t think defense has too much to do with his struggles. I think age and injury have taken their toll a little with Hudson. His K rate isn’t quite as high as it was during his Oakland years. His walk rate has risen some but he’s made some adjustments this year so far and his K/BB ratio is the second-highest of his career so far.

He’s still been pretty good with Atlanta but he may not ever again be the Cy Young contender he was in Oakland on a consistent basis.

He should be a solid number two or three for the remainder of his contract. And with the way pitchers salaries are going nowadays, I don’t think it’s a horrible contract for the Braves.

I think the scouts/front office just figured Hudson was a pretty good pitcher at worst and a Cy Young contender at best so it was worth any risk involved to trade for him and sign him, especially considering the Braves didn’t have to give up much.

By Steeledawg

July 12, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

I am ready for some ball. What’s up with this 4 day all-star break?

I would hate for it to happen, but a B-mack for Tex(w/a new contract), makes a lot of sense.

Steve from OH, Blow My Fuse is a really underated album. Kix released a live album a few years ago, and that is also really good. I think they have since broken up.

What has become of Nick Green?

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

DAP

Thanks for choosing me!

Not many notice that he is sloth-footed which affects everything he does. He is also stiff from lifting and roids(no proof). It like somebody went into a Gold’s Gym to advertise for player tryouts. Ever seen a musclehead try to shoot a free throw? In case you haven’t, they usually can’t make it to the rim because their arms don’t fully extend. I do not profess to know everything but pick up on nuances. Sorry I made you feel inferior.

I’ll stick to my guns on Renteria’s defense. When people comment on Renteria they typically make an overall assessment and that will always be great because he is a great hitter and average fielder, not a bad one. If he were a terrible fielder who throws balls into the dugout or missed balls right to him, it would be different. They’d be talking about moving him to the outfield or trading him to be a DH in the AL. But mention Edgar Renteria and the first thing you think is good hitter, good glove. My point is that he doesn’t get to as many balls as he should. If we keep him, I would not have a problem. But I stick by my point. You can agree to disagree if you must. Greatest shortstops(Ripken, Ozzie, Concepcion, Yount,Campaneris, Trammell) these are from my era. You must be on medication. Hope you feel better and soon.

By Ron Roberts

July 12, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

What the $#%&#! is so unrealistic about teams looking at stud relievers at AAA?

Will Startup: 35 games, 3-2 2.41 ERA, 41 innings pitched, 33 hits, 38 K

Joey Devine: 35 games, 2-4 2.06 ERA, 31 innings pitched, 26 hits, 51 K, 16 saves.

Gee, somebody wanting those guys is really out of the realm of possibility, Shaun. Sheesh.

By Richard Boone

July 12, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Paladin, should have been guns, not gums. I passed away over 25 years ago. I’m a little stiff.

By Braveheart

July 12, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

Paladin, maybe I’ll be Morgan Freeman and perhaps I’ll be Gene Hackman, we’ll just have to wait and see. Sounds like you’d make a strong wingman. As for your Hampton request, I’m going to the stacks. just kidding. wasn’t pointing that at you. just giving a for example to support my oh so not important point.

now, believe it or not, i actually do have some work to tend to. shocking, i know.

By Lew

July 12, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

Braveheart-Ordering a Vermont Teddy Bear is a wonderful thing, but don’t do it for me. They have a program where they give the Bears to firefighters and EMT teams to give to kids at accident and fire scenes. They really help the kids with trauma issues. I WOULD heartily urge anyone to donate to this program. It helps kids that really need help. More companies should work out programs like this. The world would be a better place by far.

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

Will and DAP,

You guys must get together and have a beer. Why wait, e-harmony will match you guys up anyway.

Does anybody want to be my tag team partner? Sorry Thor, no roids.

These guys want to hit me over the head with a metal trash can.

Step up somebody!!!!

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Richard Boone It was funnier when you said gums, what with my age and all.

By Efrim

July 12, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

One thing is for sure, the Braves will definetly need to develop a young starting pitcher out of the farm the next couple years. One that is better than Chuck James or Kyle Davies. Harrison and Reyes could be those pitchers, but I like the kid Hanson. We need a cheap young pitcher who can dominate.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 12, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Guys, I would be stunned if JS gave up anyone for a short term player. Even one of value, he is much more likely to use cash and players in A ball. I can only think of one case where “Homeboy” gave up someone of real value and that was Dye.

Most GMs are very gun shy of trading with Shurholtz, when it comes to pitchers because they see the history of guys getting their pockets picked. Most go screaming into the night when he shows up.

Good news on the payroll front, as I have said many times, the Braves choose not to raise payroll, not couldn’t raise payroll.

Now…… Rumors of A-Rod signing a 30 million per year deal with the Yankees soon. All that and still no Championship. His salary alone would equal the Marlin’s payroll. A fool and his money are soon parted. Stienbrenner is a bigger fool than most.

Welcome back Paladin, hard to hide your accent no matter how much you try. Much better when one allows their real persona to show thru.

A little thing my dad once told me. He said, “Son, you can be the sweetest juciest plum God ever created but you have to realize that some people just don’t like plums.”

Better to be yourself that to try to be something everybody else wants. You sleep better.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave: Would love to help you buddy, but I stay in deep enough kimchee on my own. Besides, you are doing a pretty good job yourself.

By DAP

July 12, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

tampabrave and thats why i noticed you, because you assume people dont see what you see. everybody knows renteria’s range isnt what furcal’s was, you dont have special insight on that, and you just seem a little high on your self.

i dont get it…why must i be on medication? is it because for some reason you think i compared renteria to ozzie, ripken, yount, trammel ect? i never said that, only that renteria is one of the better shortstops ive seen, and has made some of the most spectacular plays ive seen, and he has. hes not up there with some of those guys you mentioned, but compare him to some shortstops NOW, and hes pretty good. (please dont mistake pretty good for great)

and since you agreed he definetly among the best over-all shortstops, why complain? his defense definetly isnt killing us, because its good, and his bat is huge for us.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Gil As always, I agree with you, sir.

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

Thanks!! You make very good points!!

I hope Hampton regains form and we, either internally or externally, find a new no. 1 and 2. Smoltz, as much as I like him, only has so many pitches left in that arm. Hudson is a three, maybe four.

One thing I did not mention was steriods. Maybe more guys are using. We may never know. But that could be a variable in the Hudson equation.

Speaking of steroids,

If everyone thinks Bonds used them and they can’t prove it. How many others are quietly using. I personally think A-Rod and Clemens are on the juice. Ever see A-Rod when he came out of Miami?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 12, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

Lew, The rescue squad I was associated with for so many years received a shipment of the Vermont Teddy Bears several years ago after we made the request to them. You are right in they made things much easier when dealing with young children who were often frightened and hurt a suddenly subjected to many strangers.

As the times have change from when I first joined in 1965 to when I had to give it up. Children were much more trusting then, for better or worse. So much evil in the world made everyone’s job harder.

By Shaun

July 12, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

Lee,

Not trying to be annoying but I think most teams do approach things like the old cliche, take it one game at a time.

Most organizations, teams, managers, players I believe are trying hard to when every game. In the end, they just hope they have enough wins for a playoff berth. If they don’t, I honestly think 99.9 percent of big league players can say they did all they could, the other team(s) were just better.

I honestly don’t think athletic competitions at the major league level are about who wants it more or who has something deep inside that makes them a winner. I think they are about who hits, fields, pitches, controls the strikezone, etc. better.

By Richard Boone

July 12, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

Paladin, First I died, and then my joke died. What in the Hec Ramsey is hapnin?

By Lew

July 12, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave-Have you ever really seen Hudson up close? That is the skinniest little guy you’ve ever seen. No way in hell he juiced. The guy needs to wear wet clothes just so the scale can be aware someone’s standing on it. He doesn’t need steroids, he needs food.

By Lee

July 12, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave -

I stated on an earlier post this morning that Thorman is not the answer for the Braves future 1st Baseman. I think as a backup, pinch hitter or late inning replacement he will be fine. I think some people want to give him 5 years to prove himself. Life is too short for that - trade him or bench him. Thorman can always go into professional wrestling if he doesn’t cut ii in baseball.

Renteria may have lost a step or 2 but he is still a great player.

In other words Renteria - good, Thorman - bad.

By Shaun

July 12, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave,

Yeah, I think the issue is a little more complicated than just “let’s not give the HR record to Bonds.”

You can’t or at least it would be very difficult to prosecute the players who likely used PEDs at this point and it would be very difficult for baseball to punish anyone retroactively and you can’t just pick and choose which and who’s stat you are going to play with. Baseball should just do all they can from this point on (as they seem to be doing) and let historians and analysis and fans attach the stigma to the statistics of this era.

By Efrim

July 12, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Alex Sanchez. Ever see him up close? Skinniest little guy you’ve ever seen.

By Lee

July 12, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Shaun -

You are not annoying to me sir. I always read your posts and mostly agree with them. Since baseball is more of a team sport I do agree it is the one game at a time approach taken by most anyway. The wild card and divisional races appear to be going down to the wire this season, unless a certain team really get hot this 2nd half of the season. In other words it should be a good divisonal and wild card race to the end this year.

By Ron Roberts

July 12, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

I think it’s a bit early to be calling Thorman anything right now. Is he a future 1B fixture? Who knows? He’s struggled mightily after April, but it’s his first full season in the bigs; pulling the plug on him this early is ridiculous.

Lew, you’re right… Tim Hudson is scrawny. I noticed that about him his first start this season. I can’t decide if he’s just lost more weight or wearing a more form-fitting uniform or what, but he appears skinnier than I remember noticing before.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 12, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

Very, very few players have ever hit for high average their first full year in the majors. Thorman is no different. His fielding is improving and if he would cut down on his swing he would raise his average significantly. He is a strong dude but he has such a big hole in his swing because he is trying to hit every ball 500 feet.

Sometimes players have difficulty seeing the obvious. Hard to change in mid season though. Trade him to Washington for Shawn Hill. Both teams will benefit.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 12, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Okay, how about this? Andruw Jones to the Padres for Jake Pevey straight up?

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

DAP,

Call the nurse! You are delusional. I never placed Renteria among the best SS, only pointing out that you held him in too high esteem.

BTW, you made my point for me. Thanks!! You noticed the range problem with Renteria. Pass that on to Will when you see him tonight.

That’s all I’ve been saying the whole time. That if you dealt Renteria while his value is so high, one of the positives would be to have someone with better range(yunel) and a first baseman who doesn’t suck! Thanks again

I do hold myself in high esteem. If you don’t, call the nurse and ask for the hospital pysciatrist.

By boots

July 12, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

It is time to put Salty at first and Escobar at second. let them settle in for the rest of the year and get ready for the Fall. Also, why not stick Diaz in LF??? I know Cox likes to platoon, but geez… these three guys have the bats that we need in the line-up, and the can also play D as well as the others sticking around and robbing them of PT.

By DonCoburleone

July 12, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Hudson is tiny… Amazing how worn down he gets throughout the course of a game without his “little green buddies” anymore…

Ricky Henderson the new hitting coach of the Mets? Are you guys serious? Wow, that is a panic move… What could he possibly bring to the table? Here is a snippet of how every interaction will go with Mets hitters: “This is how Rickey used to hit in the big leagues. Rickey Henderson had a perfect stance and was the greatest base stealer of all time. Rickey Henderson thinks your swing sucks. Rickey is done talkin’ to you now, peace.”

By Shaun

July 12, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Here’s an interesting piece on what might have been had Bonds not used PEDs:

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=keating/060504

This was published in 2006, so it looks at numbers through 2005.

Mr. Peter Keating basically did projections based on other top homerun hitters in history and applied the way they aged to Bonds at age 35.

He projects he would have hit 634 HR through 2005 instead of 708.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

Richard Boone: Did that Chinese guy die too? Could use him now. Sure can’t get help like that out here.

By Ron Roberts

July 12, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

Boots, would you permanently bench Kelly Johnson, who’s near the top of the league in OBP and done a fine overall job at 2B and at the plate? Escobar’s played a grand total of 30 games, and yeah, he’s good; but I don’t see just dropping Kelly Johnson for him just yet, man.

By Metropolitan Man

July 12, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Here you guys go, you can have him back now if you are willing to pay him!!!!

The Mets are expected to remove Julio Franco from their roster today to make room for Lastings Milledge, Newsday has learned. An announcement will be made before today’s game.

It’s not clear whether Franco, who turns 48 next month, will retire, or whether he’ll accept an unconditional release and try to find a job elsewhere.

In his second season with the Mets, Franco has 10 hits, including one homer, in 50 at-bats, for a .200 batting average. He has recorded a .328 on-base percentage and an anemic .260 slugging percentage. He has essentially served as a player-coach, providing guidance for the Mets’ younger players.

But with the Mets’ offense struggling — hitting coach Rick Down was fired last night, and Rickey Henderson will join the coaching staff today — the club apparently decided that it could no longer use a roster spot on Franco.

The Mets signed Franco to a two-year, $2-million contract prior to the 2006 season

By BravesFanInRockies

July 12, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

DonC,

That Rickey profile may win you a Wurlitzer.

Outstanding.

By Lee

July 12, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

Boots

Agree with Salty at first base. Escobar seems to be fitting in o.k. as a reserve at 3rd, ss, and 2nd. It also gives Chipper, Renteria and Johnson a chance for a day off here and then. Cox seems determined to keep rotating Escobar at 2nd base with Johnson anyway unless one of them is traded.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Metro Man I’ll take him. He would have to be an improvement over our splinter-getters.

By AthensBrave

July 12, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Metro Man, Thats all right. Thats the reason we got rid of him, b/c we weren’t willing to pay him a mill. a year. Only the Mets make idiotic moves like that

By Glass Half Full

July 12, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

Who wants to bet that Jorge Sosa starts stinking it up without Julio? Remember, Sosa wasn’t good before 2005. Was solid in 2005 and Franco was on his team. He sucked in 2006; no Franco. Good so far in 2007, and Franco was with him. Hmmmmmmm. Here’s to the incredible exploding ERA.

By tony joe white

July 12, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

LOVE THE BRAVES AND THE DAWGS AND THIS SONG…..ALLMAN BROS. BAND DOES A GREAT COVER!!!!!!!!!!

By DAP

July 12, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

tampa brave youre just being stupid. if you are going to respond to me, please read carefully. i never said you comsidered renteria among the best SS, and thats not even close to what i said or what i was getting at. please carefully re-read my previous post to you and THEN respond if youd like. geez…

By TexasBrave (formally known as Miller)

July 12, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

Wow what a trade proposal! Okay, how about this? Andruw Jones to the Padres for Jake Pevey straight up?

I have said it several times before that I would not want to get rid of Andruw. However, that would have to make me think hard about going for it. We would miss his defense but to get Pevey I think I would. But the question is would the Padres give up great pitching for great defense and a question mark on offense no matter what he has done at Petco?

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

AthensBrave Whata ya mean man, Julio would slide right back into the mix. Bobby already has a nickname for him. Whoolie. And I don’t think we would get in a bidding war with anyone for his services.

By keylargo25

July 12, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

My very unscientific take on Renteria. He makes an error about once every two weeks. In my mind I see him driving the ball into the right center field gap. He plays every day. No headlines with him in trouble or complaining. For a SS he hits with power and AVERAGE. Can carry the team for a series (remember the opening one at Phillie with two homers to win the game?). I would rather see him up with the game on the line and men on base more than any other Brave. Who else is as valuable to this team?

By Metropolitan Man

July 12, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

So do you guys still have love for the ageless one or not? I think Glavine is the only EX brave I dont like and I think its becasue of his tenure with the braves. I like Franco and Sosa, but that Glavine just rubs me the wrong way. Kinda like the way O. Perez rubs the braves the wrong way (keep the private jokes to yourself). If you guys resign Franco, are you willing to let Thorman go or drop the Salty to 1st project, which way are you leaning braves faithful ( faithfulness does not apply to all bloggers)!!

Lets go METS and Rickey Henderson!!!

By DonCoburleone

July 12, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

Just stop with the ridiculous Peavy trade posts… He has about as much of a chance of getting traded as Rickey Henderson does of leading Carlos Delgado to a batting title.

By SteelCav

July 12, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Sweet. Rickey Henderson as Mets coach? Will fit right in. One of the biggest pricks in the history of the league. Will make it even more easier to laugh at that bunch of trash.

By Ron Roberts

July 12, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Julio Franco should be a hitting coach somewhere.

Why not here or in our system somewhere?

By Efrim

July 12, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

Is Smoltz a definite to make that July 18th start against the Reds?

By the way, the Braves face some tough starters to begin the second half. 4 out of the 6 games are against Snell, Gorzelanny, Arroyo and Harang. Better keep those hitting shoes on. I’ll be very dissapointed with this team if they go 5-5 in this 10 game stretch. Have to go 6-4 at the very least. 7-3 would be nice as well.

By TennesseePaul

July 12, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave: Coming in late on this so I may have missed some posts. But, I wouldn’t say Renteria is a bad fielder. He’s a great fielder. But if the debate is on range, Renteria certainly doesn’t have the range of Reyes, Furcal or Ramirez to name a few. There have been many hits that I know Furcal would have picked that Renteria simply doesn’t get to. However, when Renteria gets to the ball, he fields it perfectly 99% of the time. While Furcal may pick the wide range, he doesn’t necessarily make an accurate throw all the time.
Besides, the trade off in range Renteria offers is made up in the offense he brings to the plate. Only Hanely Ramirez is capable of surpassing him on both ends. But I don’t think Ramirez is as solid defensively as Renteria. Ramirez offers more range but not as accurate of fielding… if that makes since. But, Hanely is young, so he has plenty of time to improve on that.
It was mentioned on Saturday at the Padres game, by Chip Carey I believe, and I agree. We are fortunate and blessed to have the short stops we have in the NL East. Renteria, Reyes, Rollins, and Ramirez. Look at these guys

By Rickey Henderson

July 12, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Rickey don’t like what’s being talked about him on this blog. Rickey knows how to hit and Rickey knows how to steal bases. Rickey is the greatest base stealer of all time and Rickey don’t need to take this. And who says Rickey is the Mets new batting coach? Rickey’s coming to the Mets to hit lead-off and lead them to the promised land. Jose Reyes is no Rickey Henderson… RICKEY OUT!

By VA Brave

July 12, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

How about a trade for former Brave Kevin Millwood? Scott Thorman plus a couple minor league pitchers.

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

DAP,

I’m better at everything than you!! You can confirm that with your wife.

Seriously though Dude,

Get off the “I’m better than you” rant.

Never have I said I know more than anyone else. If I think I’m the greatest fan, then what’s it to you. This is not a contest. You’ve misread everything I’ve written, or perhaps I used big words. I don’t know, but drop it. I’ll go toe to toe with anyone about the Braves. Bring your lunch pail dude if you wanna call me out. Otherwise, get back to the crux of the matter. Let’s move on!!

Renteria’s range 0-10 scale is a 5.8. That includes getting to the ball, releasing the ball, and the ball arriving before the average baserunner.

By TexasBrave (formally known as Miller)

July 12, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

Don Just because you don’t think it will happen doesn’t mean it cannot be discussed. I don’t think it will happen either but it does not mean we can’t discuss its possibility. I mean really 90% of everything that is discussed on this blog will never happen but that is what makes this blog great. People who love their Braves can discuss what they think will get the back to the World Series.

So if you don’t think it deserves discussion then by all means don’t blog about it and if others think the same as you it will go away. So far as I can tell only two bloggers have brought up the topic.

By h_charles

July 12, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

DOB — As for KJ leading off, how about posting his numbers leading off a game. After all, that is where “leadoff” is truly “leadoff.”

If you are pushing that move, how about posting: 1) How many times KJ leads the game off with a hit; and 2) how many times KJ stole 2nd in the 1st or scored from second on a single in the first.

These factors are the key numbers — not what he does from the leadoff spot in other innings.
I think these areas are where he stumbles. I’ve watched 95% of the games this year, and after his initial hot streak he certainly didn’t seem to be getting on base to start the game, much less stealing 2nd or scoring on a single. What Harris/Escobar have that he doesn’t is A level speed. They annoy on the basepath. They create havoc. They cause concern when their on. KJ just doesn’t. IF you can provide stats that show he is the best option LEADING OFF THE GAME, I’d buy it.
Not enough numbers here to support the argument. 1st inning is what matters. Plus, KJ clearly looks more comfortable further down in the lineup where he doesn’t press and can let loose a little more. The power stroke is back, and that is do in no small part to the les pressure further down. KJ is still very young, and doesn’t have the same “oblivious to pressure” personality Escobar does. This is why he hit that funk last year and why he did this year as well.

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave got only one thing to say to Rickey Henderson.

Rickey so slow, he can’t steal nothin’ but the Met’s money!!

TampaBrave out!!

By Hammer'd The Braves

July 12, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Does John Schuerholz actually remind you guys of a gunslinging, push-the-envelope GM who would take such a gamble as trading Renteria (6500 ML AB) and replacing him with Escobar (100 ML AB), because he “has more range”?!? In the middle of a pennant race. On an already severely young team. Good tip.

By Glass Half Full

July 12, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Look at Millwood’s numbers. Do we want that?

By DonCoburleone

July 12, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

But Rickey, what about GM’s and scouts around the league saying you are washed up?

By Shaun

July 12, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave (formally known as Miller),

I hope whoever brought up Peavy for AJones was kidding or dreaming.

The Padres aren’t going to give up a very young ace, probably the most desirable pitcher in baseball right now for an expensive, soon-to-be free agent, 30-year old centerfielder.

By BamaBrave

July 12, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Even the Sports Illustrated writer called the Rickey Henderson hire a “panic move”, and added this gem: “…Mets hitters are going to need a “Rickey to English” dictionary to understand a word he’s saying.” LOL!!!

By Bobby Bonilla

July 12, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

Hey Rickey,

Just wondering since YOU got a job with the Mets, if you could persuade them to give me a job? That way we can still play cards in the clubhouse, even if the game isn’t over yet.

By TexasBrave (formally known as Miller)

July 12, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

Although Kevin would not be as bad as he is in the AL I just don’t think he is the answer for our needs right now. He has a 6.16 ERA and is averaging 5 1/3 innings per start. If we get someone he needs to at least average 7 innings and have no more than a 4.5 ERA to be of any help.

Now as for giving up Thorman, in a heartbeat. Any team who wants him can have him. As for our minor league pitchers we need at least what I have discussed go give up young talent.

By N8

July 12, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

VA Brave

“How about a trade for former Brave Kevin Millwood? Scott Thorman plus a couple minor league pitchers.”

I was thinking the same thing. Except since he has completed only 1 year of a 5 year 60 million dollar contract, and was “only” paid 8 million or so in year one - leaving 4 years at 52 million left on the contract, my guess is that JS would also ask for a Edgar Renteria/Mike Hampton type trade. Meaning the Rangers would have to kick in about 30-35 million, to make the Braves take him off their hands.

Highly unlikely. But not as unlikely as JS making the trade without some cash coming our way.

Maybe Salty for Texiera, Millwood and about 30 million dollars?

Still not sure I’d do it, but that’s more along the lines of a JS trade.

By Tony Dobson

July 12, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

I hope LaRoche gets a good reception. He always seemed like a good guy, and as previously mentioned, pretty good at scooping throws out of the dirt.

By TexasBrave (formally known as Miller)

July 12, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Shaun I couldn’t agree with you more, but JS has picked the pockets of lesser GM’s before. Is it likely to happen hell no, but we can always dream :-)

By TennesseePaul

July 12, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

h_charles: As for KJ leading off, how about posting his numbers leading off a game. After all, that is where “leadoff” is truly “leadoff.”

I beg to differ. A player can lead off an inning, not just the first inning, and still be the “leadoff” hitter per-say. But the term “leadoff” is used for the first batter in the order. The stats are based on his position in the order. If you have a problem with the terminology of the first batter in the line up, take it up with the baseball gods. Until the commandment comes down from high above mount cooperstown, the first batter in the line up is called the leadoff hitter.

By Glass Half Full

July 12, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

Guys, Millwood’s ERA is over 6 and he’s a game under .500. He’s not getting any younger either at 32 with four more years to go on a big contract.

By Rickey Henderson

July 12, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Rickey Henderson is not washed up. Rickey Henderson is the greatest base stealer of all time. The only washing Rickey does is to his uniform after he slides safely into 2nd base. Bobby Bonilla do you know why the Mets hired Rickey Henderson? It’s to hit leadoff man, you can’t hit no more Bobby… Only a well conditioned athlete like Rickey Henderson can still play at a high level when he’s 48… RICKEY OUT!!!

By DAP

July 12, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

tampabrave, if ive been misreading your posts, its because i caught something from you, doofus.

more than happy to move on.

By Luther

July 12, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

I don’t think that the significance of the leadoff spot only correlates to the first inning. The person in that spot will always be hitting in front of the 3 or 4 best hitters on the team. On base matters for the leadoff spot because of who follows him, not necessarily when.

By N8

July 12, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Please not that I am aware of Millwood’s stats, and that they aren’t a “step up” from what we’ve already got (especially if Davies “found’ something in that last start).

But if JS could “steal” him and some cash (meaning if we could get him for about 3-5 million per season), he’d be worth the risk.

Then again, Redman was NOT worth the 2 million dollar risk, was he.

Never mind. DON’T TRADE FOR KEVIN MILLWOOD. :-)

As for Julio Franco? ARE YOU GUYS FRICKIN KIDDING?????

Julio Franco: 10 for 50 (.200), 1 HR, 8 RBI

Chris Woodward: 21 for 96 (.245), 1 HR, 7 RBI

Aren’t they pretty much the same? Except for the fact that Woodward can play 3 positions defensively?

Yeah, I’ll go wit a big N.O. on Julio.

In fact, while I’m at it, I’ll go with a big N.O. on Woodward too.

By rupert

July 12, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

DOB, what is the deal with Devine? he has looked pretty good in his two outings, i know he’s got a past, but do the braves see him as a legit prospect, maybe with some staying power (late inning guy next year) or just another arm? have you heard what other teams/scouts think of him in terms of value?

By BamaBrave

July 12, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Actually…since it’s the Mets…they’re going to need a Rickey to English to Spanish dictionary…

This is going to be fun watching the Mets fall apart.

Is it Friday yet?

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Here’s what I’d like to see and keep in mind I’m an idealist.

Smoltz pitches with no pain.

Hudson keeps his sinker and slider down at least until the seventh inning

Chipper doesn’t leave the ground

James goes 7 innings

Davies pitches like he’s got a pair.

Carlyle shows up every 5 days.

AJ signs a 1 year deal, taking the pressure off.

Francuoer exercises MORE patience

McCann to Texas for MTex and long term deal

By Shaun

July 12, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave (formally known as Miller),

True, Schuerholz hasn’t made many bad trades in his tenure. But ain’t no way, ain’t no how the Padres are giving up Jake Peavy for anything less than what would be ridiculously lopsided in favor of the Padres.

Jake Peavy’s only come around maybe once every 10-15 years or more; I’m talking guys who’ve already established themselves as true aces—top 5 pitchers in the game—before their 27th birthdays.

By Efrim

July 12, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

Yea what is the deal with Joey Devine?

Can he not hack it? He did really well in Double A. Lets get him some more innings.

By Hammer'd The Braves

July 12, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

“What Harris/Escobar have that he doesn’t is A level speed. They annoy on the basepath. They create havoc. They cause concern when their on”

It really is hard to make a point sometimes when those pesky facts keep getting in the way. Escobar was 14-for-28 in steal attempts for his entire minor league career. He’s quick, not fast. He’s never been a base-stealer, is unlikely to become one, and frankly who cares? His strengths are in offensive areas that actually mean something. But if speed is your rationale for sitting Kelly Johnson in favor of Yunel Escobar, sorry, that argument doesn’t hold water.

By Rickey Henderson

July 12, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

And where is the guy responsible for running this blog anyway? Rickey doesn’t like how its run and Rickey could do a much better job with this blog than some guy named Dave… Rickey don’t like the name Dave, Rickey like the name Rickey which is why Rickey’s name is Rickey… RICKEY OUT!!!

By TampaBrave

July 12, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

DAP

Let it roll off like rain brother.

By DonCoburleone

July 12, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

“Actually…since it’s the Mets…they’re going to need a Rickey to English to Spanish dictionary…”

HA! That made me lough out loud here at work, great line…

By Lee

July 12, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

Julio and Millwood - NO WAY

I want to see the Braves improving - not to go in the other direction. Julio is older than most of the people on this blog. It is time for him to let go and retire from playing baseball - maybe coaching.

What is the deal with the Braves and their minor league pitchers. Have they really produced a good pitcher since Glavine came out of their farm system.

By Shaun

July 12, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

rupert,

I know I’m not DOB and have no inside info, but I would guess the Braves still consider him a future closer. He’s still only 23 and his K rates in the minors and majors are very impressive. And K rates are huge indicators or future performance. He just needs some time to learn some things and adjust to pro baseball and he’ll be fine, I think.

By flange1

July 12, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

A few random comments:

Jake Peavy will not be traded. Roy Oswat and Dontrelle Willis MIGHT be traded.

BMac will NOT be traded. Salty MIGHT be traded.

Tex will never be a Brave. Ken Griffey Jr MIGHT be.

Andruw will not be traded. He will not sign a 1 year contract, but he MIGHT stay a Brave.

Check out Peter Gammons last blog entry, it indicated the Braves feel Escobar WILL be a star SS. They are either convinced or pumping him up to trade him.

I don’t see the Braves trading Renteria this year. Maybe in the off season, but I don’t think they want an infield of rookies and Chipper. We do need a veteran presence.

I think Frenchy and AJ are going to kill it in the second half.

I think the pitcher the Braves will pick up is Matt Morris probably for Lillibridge and a pitching prospect.

I agree with DOB that the Braves will win the division.

Thoughts?

By TexasBrave (formally known as Miller)

July 12, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave

Liked most of what you said, especially about Davis getting some big brass ones. However, not in a million years would I trade Texas for Millwood and Tex. Besides DOB said that there is no way in Hades that the Braves trade McCann. And when he says it you can take it to the bank.

By Efrim

July 12, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave

Davies pitching like he has a pair is asking way too much.

By FSU Braves fan

July 12, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

whats with the numerous posts over numerous blogs of people wanting to trade McCann so they can out salty in….i just read one in which someone wanted mccan to texas for teixeira….yea real smart move i think trade away a young, yet proven catcher arguably one of the top 3 in the league for an overpaid 1st baseman….just so u can see the hottest thing behind the plate, don’t get me wrong im a huge salty fan and i believe he will be a solid major league baseball player but he has compiled merely 100 abs give or take, people need to stop jumping on his jock and stick with the sure thing which is mcCann……ur right lets trade a 2 time alstar through his 1st 2 full seasons…. that makes a whole helluva lotta sense…

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

Rickey Isn’t it terribly uncomfortable with (I know who)’s forearm stuck in your @$$ while he uses you as a handpuppet?

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 12, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

Lets see, DOB writes for the AJC, runs this braves blog and he’s still picking the braves to win the division……What a shocker!!

By Brad

July 12, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

I’m not saying to give up much for Millwood, he is 32, but consider his last 3 starts: 1)Bal: 6IP, 1ER, 4K. 2) LAA: 8IP, 2ER, 4K. 3) @Det: 6IP, 3ER, 6K. He went 2-1 in three quality starts in a row, two of those coming against arguably the two best teams in baseball. He is certainly not as bad as his year-to-date numbers suggest as he has been sidelined with a groin injury he is just starting to recover from. Also, his numbers should improve with the combination of a move to the National League and a better ballpark. He would be a very quality number 3 starter this year, but just think about our potential rotation with him next year….

By Efrim

July 12, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

McCann isn’t going anywhere. Maybe to Baltimore for Bedard. Thats wishful thinking.

Keep McCann Frenchy and B Mac are the faces of the franchise.

By TennesseePaul

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

Aren’t they pretty much the same? Except for the fact that Woodward can play 3 positions defensively?

I’d go with the big N.O. on that as well. I’ll grant you this much, Woodward can stand at three infield positions at least Franco has the sense of mind not to pretend he’s a fabulous short stop anymore.
Also, Woodward can’t provide the “veteran presence off the bench” where as Franco can. Franco also offers guidance to Thor at the plate and Salty on the field.
Woodward has had twice as many at bats as Franco but the same number of HR’s and fewer RBIs. And, I don’t think he’s showed up to work clean shaven once this season. It’s like he just rolls out of bed in his uni 20 minutes before the game only to nod off on the bench.

That said, I don’t know if Franco would be anything of an improvement. But I loved seeing him on the team. If nothing else, hire him to work in our system some where.

By Paladin

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

No Chop Zone Go over to some of the other AJC blogs if you want negativity.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

Brad I also like Millwood, but I take exception with one thing you say. You act like 32 is old! That ain’t old. Hell, I got underwear that old!

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 12, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

Paladin, I’ll do just that since you’re so intimidating and all.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

No Chop Zone Sorry, I forgot the troll rule. Bye bye troll.

By Matt

July 12, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

Anybody who proposes trading McCann loses all credibility.Why would you trade a 2-time all-star catcher whom you just signed to a 6-yr.contract and will be the FACE of the Braves franchise for the next decade.That is just stupid and shows a lack of knowledge.The BRaves would rue the day they traded BMac and it would be akin the Hawks trading Nique.The BRaves wouldn’t win for at least a decade.

And to trade him for a rental player like Tex?LOL!Some of you people are funny!

He ain’t going anywhere,people.He’s our catcher.Salty is our 1Bman of the future.Deal w/it.

By Ron Roberts

July 12, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

I can think of a few million reasons why Millwood wouldn’t fit what we’re looking for.

He’s expensive.

By Efrim

July 12, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

no chop zone,

What are your thoughts on Jose Reyes sub par season?

By MGL

July 12, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

TennPaul - I agree with you on the “lead-off” position. Too many people take the position that it is only leading-off the game. That’s nuts!! The lead-off hitter is leading the lineup. Therefore, he is typically in that position 4 - 6 times a game.

By Brad

July 12, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

While there is no arguement that Millwood’s salary is not cheap, DOB has indicated that Liberty may be willing to open the checkbook more that TW did. Unfortunately, considering the watered down state of starting pitching in MLB, I am not so sure we could do much better. As bad as Millwood’s YTD numbers look, that may be beneficial for us as we may be able to get him without giving up much. It is looking like baseball is headed for another round of massive inflation given that A-Rod is setting up for $30M annually, so it might not be that bad that Millwood is already locked up for 4(?) more years.

By DAP

July 12, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

hey, am i gonna be the first blogger who has tried out the new all you can eat seats? im going saturday night. if anyone has tried the all you can eat thing yet, let me know how it worked and what you think of it!

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 12, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

Efrin…..Subpar season? He leads the majors in steals. Among the leaders in hits and avg. You must be referring to Delgado. As for the rest of the Mets they’ll be fine. They’ve dealt with many injuries to the delight of the braves faithful but they’ll get healthy and close this thing out……GO METS!!

By h_charles

July 12, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul — You are missing the point. Obviously, the 1st person in the order is called the “leadoff hitter.”

The point is that the significance of the position is WHAT THAT HITTER DOES IN THE FIRST INNING. Since that is the only inning you are assured of having that particular person lead of the inning, and since scoring first can change the dynamics of an entire game, the signficance of the “leadoff” hitter is primarily what they do in the first inning.

That is why leadoff hitters tend to have those qualties to maximize run production from the least amount of offense possible from the hitters that follow, and why it is so crucial, particularly in the NL, your leadoff hitter have not only a good OBP but also excellent speed.

If you look at the top guys in the NL, Reyes and Rollins for example, you will note that both have this speed. KJ does not.

Furthermore, since leadoff hitters are only assured of leading off in the first, how they perform as the first batter of the game is much more significant than how they perform with one out and nobody on the top of the third, for example.

Thus, my question to DOB regarding how KJ did leading off the game, not just overall.

For example, if KJ had an OBP leading off the game equivalent to Reyes, that would support the argument that he should leadoff. If he stole 2nd in the first inning as much as Rollins did, that would be another argument, as would how often he scored from 2nd on a sinlge.

While it is certainly important what KJs overall numbers are in comparing him to other second basemen, when you are talking “leadoff”, it is that first inning that makes the difference. It may very well be that KJ does actually have equivalent numbers in the first, but without seeing that one cannot judge.

This argument is akin to why saves/opportunites and inherited runners is much more important statistically for a closer than ERA.
One would much rather have a closer that saves 40 out of 42 games with an ERA of 3.00 where he gave up 10 runs in those 2 blown saves than have a closer with an ERA of 2.50 who has blown 10 of 20 saves while giving up only 1 run in each of those games (math may be off a bit, but you get the picture). Numbers must be looked at in the proper context.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 12, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

MGL A little high in your estimates of a lead off hitter being in that position in a game. 3 times is a high number, twice is more likely.

Didn’t mean to stir up a hornet’s nest with the Trade for Peavy… but now that you mention it. Let’s go for Oswalt. Andrew would like Houston too, that is except that stupid hill in center field. I bet if Andruw signed with the Astros he could get them to flatten that spot out so he would not get hurt.

Short porch in left and guaranteed perfect weather… Another possibility…

By Chase

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

THE ONLY WAY I’d Trade SALTY to the RANGERS is if:

We could package THORMAN with him and pick up TEX and MILLWOOD we would have control over them Next Year as well

and that would give us a solid #3-4 Starter and Big Time First Base Bat!

BUT GUESS WHAT…..THAT AIN’T HAPPENING

IF IT WERE UP TO ME I would just put Salty at 1st base FULLTIME and just deal with any possible defensive shortcommings!

By john andrew eric

July 12, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

good comments brad

By DonCoburleone

July 12, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

DAP if it is the all you can eat at Dodger stadium then it sucks… No alcohol gets served in those seats, how are you supposed to enjoy 3-5 Hot Dogs, a bag of peanuts, and some nachos without a beer? For $35 a piece you’re better off getting some good seats close to the field. Then again, if you don’t drink beer and have a family then it is a great deal…

By Chase

July 12, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

N8

Redman was signed for 585,000 dollars not TWO MILLION

WILSON was signed for TWO MILLION though, and that WAS a WASTE!

GIL in Mechanicsville

PLEASE DONT BRING UP TRADING ANDRUW!!

ANYBODY WHO BRINGS UP TRADING ANDRUW IS AN UNIFORMED FAN WITH NO CREDIBILITY ON THIS BLOG!!!!

HE CANNOT BE TRADED

GET OVER IT PEOPLE

By Rickey Henderson

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

Jose Reyes really is overrated though. He’s not even the best lead-off man on the Mets now that they signed Rickey Henderson. Rickey is the greatest base stealer of all time…

By h_charles

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

MGL — You are WAY off. Take the 1st inning out of the equation and the amount of times the #1 hitter leads of an innning again are not that much different than anyone else in the lineup.

The ONLY factor increasing the likelihood, since the first time the pitcher doesn’t face the minimum it is simply luck of the draw who leads off any inning but the first, is that the pitcher spot is a bit less likely to continue an inning than other lineup spots.

Even this factor is mitigated in later innings when pitchers are pinch-hit for and double switches occur.

Again, the first inning is the difference.

By Steve from OH

July 12, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

h_charles

Not necessarily…the purose of the leadoff hitter is to get on base in front of the big run producers on the team (i.e. Edgar, Chipper, AJ). The more often a leadoff hitter gets on base, the more opportunites our best hitters have to knock him in.

By Scott

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

The Braves will win the division. It’s there’s for the taking. And then hopefully people will actually show up to the playoff games. That is so embarrassing.

By Braveheart

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

The point of a leadoff man is not what he does leading off a game.

The point is that he gets on base throughout the entire game setting the table for the best hitters coming up behind him. The point is that he see lots of pitches so that he can wear the opposing pitchers out so that the offense can get into the lesser pitchers in the pen faster. The point is that he take lots of pitches so that the best hitters coming up behind him get a good long hard look at what the pitcher is tossing. The leadoff hitter also has to be a good, productive hitter since he gets far more plate appearances than any other hitter during the course of 162. KJ is doing just fine. There is so much more.

Who really cares too much what they do leading off a game? It would be interesting to know but not really all that important to know about a leadoff hitter.

What matters most for leadoff hitters is how often they get on base so the guys behind them can drive them in.

By Chase

July 12, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

The ONLY other LEGITIMATE BIG TIME trade package I could see is:

Some package that could bring GRIFFEY JR. and either ARROYO or LOHSE here from CINCY!

REMEMBER…JR has said he’d love to play for the Braves and BC…AND the REDS have said ALMOST EVERYBODY IS AVAILABLE!

By dgd

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

I have a music-related question since the Bravos are still on break: does anyone know which album Johnny Cash’s version of “One” can be found on? Heard it on the radio recently and was amazed by it………

By MGL

July 12, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

h-charles - YOU are off base, the lead-off hitter leads the lineup.

By TexasBrave (formally known as Miller)

July 12, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

The leadoff hitters sole job is to get on base so that the players behind him can drive him in no matter what the inning or number of outs. He must have a high OBP and at least decent speed on the basepaths. He should be the best player on your team that can get on base and get into scoring position because of his speed. Now if it happens in the first inning that’s great, but it doesn’t always happen. And no matter how many outs there are when he comes to bat he is still the lead off hitter trying to get something started for the guys behind him even with two outs. I am sure you have seen what our guys can do with two outs and RISP.

I would love a breakdown of number of runs scored by a lead off hitter in the first inning compared to all other innings. I’m willing to bet that they score more runs in the later innings than they do in the first.

By Braveheart

July 12, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

Chase, take it easy, man. Don’t be calling Gil from Mechanicsville uninformed with no credibility. The man is far more informed and credible to us than yourself, especially after you posted a trade proposal of Salty who is making nothing and Thorman who is making nothing for Millwood and Tex who are making almost $25 mil combined. Way to add $25 million to the budget, genius, without trading away any money. What are you trying to get Sir John fired or something?

At least Gil’s trade would make more sense IF Andruw were to agree to be traded (which he won’t) for Oswalt, because the Braves would be trading salaries that are roughly equivalent. I personally don’t see the Stros getting rid of Oswalt for Druw because I think if they were stupid enough to get rid of Oswalt, they would be doing so to get rid of high salaries and go with kids.

And, Chase, enough already with the bold faced cap locked screaming, you are making our eyes bleed with that eyesore. That kind of crap ain’t very credible.

By phil

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

Franco to be released in 10 days

By joe from central ca

July 12, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

Note to Braves Management: DO NOT PICK UP JULIO FRANCO!! Please don’t let Bobby “remember when” with Franco. I love the guy but he’s DONE! I’d say drop Woodward and bring on Franco but at least Woodsie can run.

By raindawg722

July 12, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

Regarding Renteria’s range, Furcal may have gotten to balls that no one else could touch, but, especially early in his career, he’d get to a ball in the third base hole and instead of realizing that he had no chance of getting the batter out and sticking it in his back pocket he would load up his cannon and fire the ball down the right field line or into the dugout about half the time. Granted, he got a lot better about that as he matured, but the difference with Renteria is that he almost always makes the right play and is a lot more consistent at the plate and in the field.

I just heard Steve Phillips on XM home plate and he said that when Rickey was on the Mets he didn’t know Phillips’ name and would refer to him as “GM.” He bet Rickey couldn’t even name all the current players on the Mets roster. I bet he’s right.

By Chase

July 12, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

BRAVEHEART

You need to read MY POST MORE CAREFULLY!

I said that TRADE WOULD NOT HAPPEN and…“IF IT WERE UP TO ME I WOULDN”T DO IT…I’D JUST PUT SALTY AT FIRST BASE FULL TIME!”

I didn’t propose that trade…I was comment on everyone’s talk of getting TEX or MILLWOOD!!!!!!!

AND Andruw and Boras ALREADY SAID HE WAS GOING TO FINISH THE YEAR AS A BRAVE!!!!

So any trade purposal with him in it is NOT VERY SMART OR REALISTIC!!

By cowman23

July 12, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

No way on trading Salty or Escobar. Don’t risk the future on a possible playoff berth this year on a player who may be only rented. Kelly back to leadoff and Diaz/Harris at the number eight position. Don’t forget Bobby really likes Matty and doesn’t see why KC and TB gave up on him plus Harris can back up center field for Dru if needed.

Why not give Moylan a chance to start? He’s lasted two - three innings in the past. Why not try him out. If he can give Bobby three or four innings and keep it close, no worse than Davies has done. Don’t forget Buddy Carlisle. Not Smoltzie for sure but gotta give him an A for effort and giving all he’s got. Came to camp as a nonroster invitee. Knowing job is always on the line making him dig a little deeper. Who always said Leo resurrected careers of pitchers? McDowell doing a pretty good job.

Last, Salty at first. Trade Thorman and minor league prospect for a middle starter.

By Chase

July 12, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

and Braveheart,

obviously even with the BOLD CAPS you still didn’t see my WHOLE post!!

LOL

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

July 12, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

I think Edgar will best serve the Braves as SS in 2008 with Escobar at 2nd everyday. KJ to left platooning with Diaz or minor leaguer. Willie Harris in center or minor leaguer (Blanco, Brandon Jones). Escobar to SS in 2009.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 12, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this

Chase You would be surprised at what you can get people to do if there is enough money involved. My proposals are no more outlandish than many others put forth on the blog.

Just because you don’t want it to happen doesn’t mean it won’t. Unless there is a big and I do mean big change in the Braves business model, Andruw is gone next season anyway.

Now, is it likely for Andruw to be traded? No, but a lot of highly unlikely things happen in baseball.

By Braveheart

July 12, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this

Next time I will read your post more carefully …… it would be a whole lot easier without all the bold faced cap locks though….. makes it hard to read

By DonCoburleone

July 12, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this

I wonder if a Thorman/Lillibridge package could get us Kyle Lohse from the Reds? With the starting pitching market being so thin, Lohse just might be the best starter available (for a reasonable price)…

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 12, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this

And while I am thinking about it. Scott Boreas is doing his job. If I had an agent who did not get me maximum value for my services I would sue the hell out of him after I fired him. Until such time as owners take control and put a hard salary cap on teams then you are going to have New York and Boston try to buy a World Series every year.

The hookers in the Philippines were very astute when it came to marketing, whenever the Carriers would dock the price for their services went up. They charged what the market would bare.

It is the same principle the oil companies use in this country. Come to think of it, almost the same results.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 12, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this

And while I am wound up…… If you want free baseball emigrate to Cuba, they have some pretty good players.

Major league baseball is salivating waiting for the day that Fidel dies so the trade embargo will be lifted. They can hardly wait to sign all those pitchers on the Cuban National Team.

Plus the classic car collectors are dying to get some of those ‘55 Chevys that are still being used on the island.

By Ron Roberts

July 12, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

DonC., I gotta admit, I kinda like a Thorman/Lillibridge combination to pry away a starter from the Reds. The Reds will most certainly lose Griffey, either this season or in the offseason, and Thorman’s monstrous shots to right will likely splash down in the river at Great American Ballpark. I think he could be a big-time masher there. And they have to be disappointed with Alex Gonzalez at short and looking for a future solution there, too.

At least your trade scenario offers the other team something tangible to consider.

By David O'Brien

July 12, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

Much as Bobby and the Braves love Julio, there’s a reason he’s played almost none this season. Bat is like it’s in sludge now, slowed so drastically since we last saw him in a Braves uniform. And he just doesn’t have the range to play first base now without being a liability.

That said, he’d be real cheap….

DGD, “One” is on Solitary Man, the third album in the American Recordings series that Cash did with Rick Rubin producing.

Speaking of J.R., today I played the DVD video of “Hurt” for someone who had never seen it. Once again, it brought a tear to my eye. Seriously. So incredibly powerful. There will never, ever be another video to compare with that four minutes of absolute perfection….

Doesn’t “Protonix” sound like a tennis racket from the 1980s?…

This just in: Braves (still) aren’t trading McCann.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 12, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this

Maybe baseball should do the same thing that the NCAA did with football. Have a devision 1A and 1AA based on the size of the school. I get really tired of hearing people say they cannot compete because they are in a “small” market. Well, if you are that darn small get out.

It would be great for ESPN too. They would only have to show Boston, New York and Los Angeles teams thus guaranteeing maximum audiences every week. Oh, forgot… they do that already. Anyway, cap the salaries, cap the profits of any one team and share the revenue. Oh, and have a league minimum payroll too so the low ballers won’t ride the crest.

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 6:48 PM | Link to this

I’m a made man! My alter ego has gotten a “mention” from DOB. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you! It’s like the first time I got “published” in the vent.

By Rosalynn

July 12, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

Well, Ladah Buhd is gone. That leaves Betta, Nanca, Bahbahra, Hillarah, Laura - and me. Moah than enough for a pokah game. Mah heaht goes out to the Johnson familah. Ah alwahs thought the Johnson guhls weah so homelah - not like ouah Ama who is a real lookah. Did DOB evah date one of the Johnson guhls? That Lynda Buhd stopped moah than one clock in the White House when heah daddah was theah.

Well, Ladah Buhd did a lot of good and planted a lot of trees along the roadwahs. She was sorta the Johnna Appleseed of Fuhst Ladahs. I do not think Ladah Buhd shahed mah love foah baseball. howevah. She was into competitive eating in heah last yeahs.

By DonCoburleone

July 12, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

Okay, here is my Top 10 list of pitchers who I think the Braves could trade for with my % chance of it actually happening:

1) Matt Morris (SF): 5% - The only way this happens is if the Braves give up more than they want to in order for the Giants to eat some of Morris’ remaining contract. (Or Liberty suddenly announces a 20% increase in payroll). Morris is more likely than these next 4 guys though…

2) Bronson Arroyo (Cin): 1% - See Matt Morris.

3) Javier Vasquez/Jose Contreras (CHW): 1% - See Matt Morris

4) Kevin Millwood (Tex): 1% - See Matt Morris

5) Kyle Lohse (Cin): 25% - He’s a FA after this season so his salary is not an issue. Could possibly be had without giving up Salty or Escobar. He’s by no means the answer to all our problems, but hes still better than Davies.

6) Lenny DiNardo/Joe Kennedy (Oak): 10% - Both currently in Oakland’s bullpen but both have made starts this year and in the past. Both under control through 2009 but not sure if they are any better an option than Davies. Probably take Escobar to get one of them, plus we’d have to take the time to stretch them back out so they could start again.

7) Jason Jennings (Hou): 15% - I really think this one has legs now that the owner of the Astros himself has said Houston won’t be buyers this year. He’s supposed to be Houston’s #2 starter behind Oswalt (although he’s hardly been #2 material this year). He’s another FA after this season and would probably take Escobar + a top pitching prospect (Harrison) to get it done.

8) Noah Lowry (SF): 0.5% - This one would be ideal, but I don’t think either team would pull the trigger on this deal even if they thought it was good for their respective teams. Atlanta would probably have to give up Salty and Escobar and a pitching prospect.

9) Zach Duke (Pit): 10% - Has definately fallen out of favor in Pittsburgh. I’m not sure I like this one though cuz this guy relies too much on pitching to contact. Strikeout rate is horrible but he is under control til 2009. Would probably take Salty to get him…

10) Steve Trachsel (Bal): 1% - Definition of a “warm body” to throw out there every 5th day. I pray JS is not stupid enough to trade for this guy…

Pipe Dreams: 0% chance - Dontrelle Willis (only cuz FLA won’t trade within division), Roy Oswalt, Jake Peavy, Eric Bedard, Aaron Harang, Jeff Francis, Carlos Zambrano, Ian Snell, James Shields, Kazmir, Tom Gorzellany and every other very good pitcher who is either very young or on a contender…

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 12, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this

Nice article on Wille C. Harris on the Atlanta Braves page. Hard not to like this guy. Very well grounded and sincere.

By rupert

July 12, 2007 7:07 PM | Link to this

if the braves were to sign franco that would basically end the salty at first vs. lefties, if it didn’t then where the hell and when would you play franco?

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 7:07 PM | Link to this

Rosalyn Rolling in the floor! I don’t even want to abbreviate that!

By raindawg722

July 12, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

You have to love the highway beautification act. Quoting Adrian Cronauer here, the act basically said that LBJ’s daughters could not drive in a convertible on public highways.

By Bob, Journalist

July 12, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this

10Paul, methinks h_charles has your number!

Since leadoff hitters are only assured of leading off in the first, how they perform as the first batter of the game *is MUCH MORE significant than … *

h_charles gave an example, but I’m not sure I understand it. Perhaps it would be better to examine other ways of completing the sentence.

*is much more significant than … * how they perform as the first batter of innings other than the first.

*is much more significant than … * how they perform when not leading off an inning.

*is much more significant than … * how they perform when hitting with runners in scoring position.

*is much more significant than … * how they perform when the team is up by a large number of runs.

*is much more significant than … * how they perform when the team is trailing with two out in the bottom of the ninth.

*is much more significant than … * how they perform when it’s not important how they perform.

No, Paul’s number 10 is how he’s rated on a scale of 0-10 and very few have his number … what he says *is much more significant than … *

The relative significance or importance of how the Leadoff Hitter performs does depend on the situation … but since he doesn’t know what might happen after his turn at the plate, methinks it’s usually best for him to assume that the current one is the one of greatest significance.

By Wolfpack Man

July 12, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this

Don C

No offense, but to say it would take Escobar and Harrison to get Jennings is way off base. If that is what it would take, then there is ABSOLUTELY no way that trade would ever be made.

Escobar and Harrison for a guy who has 1 win this year and has a record of 39-51 since 2003 and has a career 4.70 ERA is crazy. And he is a free agent at season end to boot. There is a 0% chance of that happening. I will guarantee that. The Braves may trade for Jennings, but I don’t think they would even include Littlebridge alone, much less the package that you suggest. I could see Jennings for Manny Acosta or something like that. Maybe Devine possibly.

Escobar and Harrison together would only be traded for a #1-#3 starter that the Braves would have control of for a couple of years.

By Yars

July 12, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this

For Andruw to come out & say that Atlanta needs another starting pitcher, I truly believe it will be addressed. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s on July 31, the last day. I can’t see the Braves doing anything about 1B. Thorman has proved he isn’t an everyday player, so I see Salty getting more starts at 1B against both LH & RH pitching. I also don’t believe bench help will be taken care of either. If Yunel is not traded, perhaps it means that Renteria will be after the season, & Yunel will be the everyday SS in ‘08. As for Kelly Johnson, Atlanta would be fools to trade him. He’s only going to get better. He’s a potential all star in the near future. He can hit for average, has power, a great eye, above average speed, a high OBP, & plays decent defense. I can’t help but wonder if the Braves will keep him at 2B, or put him in LF for ‘08. As for Harris & Diaz, for some reason, I get the feeling neither one will be in a Atlanta uniform next season. Now Playing: Enjoy the Silence by Depeche Mode

By jbutler

July 12, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this

DOB- What is the “One” DVD? I could use a good cry. Or tear in the eye. Or something. Love the good recommend. Do you ever get to Red Rocks when you’re here in CO? That’s a great place to see a show!!!

By Paladin

July 12, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this

My mommy says it is bedtime and I always mind my mommy. Goodnight mommy, and y’all.

By JDG123

July 12, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

I would love to see Julio Franco back with the Braves now that the Mets have let him go. Franco and Salty at first would be a great combo. Franco never got to play for the Mets due to that waste of good money, Carlos Delgado. At least Franco could take the spot of Woodward if nothing else.

By DonCoburleone

July 12, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

“No offense, but to say it would take Escobar and Harrison to get Jennings is way off base. If that is what it would take, then there is ABSOLUTELY no way that trade would ever be made.”

These are realistic scenarios here bro. Starting pitching is ridiculously thin right now and it WILL take either Salty or Escobar+pitching prospect to get anything of value. I’m not saying its not ridiculous, but thats the way it is.. I mean, the White Sox demanded Salty AND Escobar for 2 1/2 months of Mark Buehrle for christ sake!

By Bob, Journalist

July 12, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I attempted, much earlier in the day, to respond to your well prepared and sincerely appreciated response … it was coincidently in the same direction in your appositive.

The attempt ended in failure, generating a ‘server not found’ page. Another post received the same fate.

I lost one of the posts and I can’t see the content of what Foxfire has cached, but I’ll try to resend the one it saved … who knows, it may just be the one to you.

If not, and I later find that have have the energy, I’ll readdress the subject … I’m in directional accord with your appositive post.

By DonCoburleone

July 12, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

Just thinking out loud here, but I wonder what we could get from Minnesota for Matt Diaz (and I’m serious about this)… They have BY FAR the worst DH in the AL. I mean, they have some guy named Garret Jones starting their tonight. Diaz would be a huge improvement over the guys they run out there… I’m not thinking something that could help us this year, but maybe a pitching prospect to help us in the future or a bullpen arm to spin to another team in a deal for a starter? There has to be some kind of market for a guy who has hit nearly .340 over 400+ at-bats the last 2 seasons… Then we could work either Escobar or Johnson into LF to take his spot. I mean, am I way off base here DOB or do you think there is a market for Diaz? The guy makes nothing right now and will still be making nothing in a couple years, isn’t that the ideal player for a team like the Twins?

By GSU-Lee

July 12, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

I want salty and Escobar to stay in the Braves and would sacrifice this season to make it happen

By brent a.

July 12, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

Let’s Go Reds!

By DonCoburleone

July 12, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

Haha, Mets took a 2-0 lead on Cincy in the first and Cincy just tied it with a 2-run double by Hatteberg after El Duque walked the pitcher… Aaaah, going to be nice watching this Mets pitching staff in the 2nd half let me tell you… Any team anxious to get Jorge Sosa back on the mound definately has some problems…

By Bob, Journalist

July 12, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

Don C, I think most folks would agree with the notion “there has to be some kind of market for a guy who has hit nearly .340 over 400+ at-bats the last 2 seasons”, especially one that hits both right and left handed pitching … but it might beg the question as to why you would give up such a person for “maybe a pitching prospect to help us in the future or a bullpen arm to spin to another team in a deal for a starter?”

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

July 12, 2007 7:54 PM | Link to this

SIGN FRANCO NOW!

By Wolfpack Man

July 12, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this

“These are realistic scenarios here bro. Starting pitching is ridiculously thin right now and it WILL take either Salty or Escobar+pitching prospect to get anything of value. I’m not saying its not ridiculous, but thats the way it is.. I mean, the White Sox demanded Salty AND Escobar for 2 1/2 months of Mark Buehrle for christ sake!”

A realistic scenario is not trading Escobar and one of your top pitching prospects for a guy who has little value and is also a 2 1/2 month rental. If Jennings were signed for 3-4 more years that might make some sense.

To be honest trading Salty and Escobar for Buehrle (although I would not do it) is a lot MORE realistic than Escobar and Harrison for Jennings (a guy who has not had a winning season since 2003 and has not one 10 games in three years and has won 1 (I repeat 1) game all year. That was/is my point.

If what teams are asking for certain players is unrealistic, and the Braves would never make such a trade, then how is suggesting that it is possible in turn Realistic?

By P-Town Brave

July 12, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this

Bob

For the same reason everyone else is trading that kind of player…we need a starter…Also, no one else mentioned this, but it’d free up LF a little more for Junior to come to town…

Then we’d have Willie as our #1 PH and PR, which would be great

By Bob, Journalist

July 12, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

I guess my 7;18 shows that one should be very careful when attempting to bold something that includes “…” … I’m not sure what happened but I do apologize for the sloppiness.

By DonCoburleone

July 12, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

Because we are desperate for pitching Bob thats why… Us and about 28 other teams… You have to overpay for pitching this day in age - whether your picking up a FA or trading for some…

By Ed Glennon

July 12, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

Letting Marcus go and putting Kelly at 2B was the best move of the winter. This July make no trades at all. In September bring up some rookies to play center field to replace the Rally Killer and see what happens. The tribute to Willie Mays should remind everyone just how bad Andruw Jones is.

By Wolfpack Man

July 12, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

I agree with you Bob (and also with Don C) Diaz should have some value, but I don’t think it would be wise to get rid of him for so little.

Something that you must consider in trades is what I am gaining more valuable than what I am losing?

Now granted you have to weigh long and short term effects, but I think that is a question that we as fans sometimes don’t correctly ask ourselves. We get blinded by the excitement of change.

By Bob, Journalist

July 12, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

Shaun Payne, thanks for a thoughtful, well delivered response!

I understand that this onion has many layers and that the issues surrounding Bonds alone are within themselves complex.

My question wasn’t intended to be. It was: “do you believe that we should take into account the fact or probability that a player could have been great even if they had not cheated”?

I apologize for taking it out of context as it did relate to your earlier post … and it is poorly worded when not so related.

Therefore, I’ll attempt to clarify: “When evaluating a player for whom we have cause to believe (feel certain, strongly suspect, or can prove)* cheated* … for the purposes of acknowledgment and recognition of his achievements … do you believe that we should take into account the fact or probability that the player could have been great even if he had not cheated?”

I’m not trying split hairs or to be technical, either you do or you don’t.

Here’s what I believe … which is more akin to civil than criminal law … though there is no intent for it to relate to either.

The player is guilty of cheating when he cheats … not if and/or when it is proven that he cheated.

It is not a criminal court of law where the burden of proof is on the accuser … if there is substantial cause to believe that cheating has occurred, I do not think that those so believing should acknowledge the acheivements.

I personally believe that that it is incumbent on the “accused” to provide any and all available evidence or argument that will serve to restore his reputation if he chooses/desires to be recognized for his achievements.

The question is not about the use of performance enhancing drugs, regardless of type or legality … it is about breaking the rules in any way that might materially influence performance. If the rules are so broken, it’s cheating … if it’s adjudged accidental and incidental, that should be given consideration.

If the player conducts himself in such as way as to bring material discredit to the game and himself, I personally believe he should be banished in disgrace with no recognition being given to his accomplishments … but if that “conduct unbecoming” didn’t involve strongly suspected or substantiated cheating, then he’s not to be considered a cheat, other than having cheated himself and his supporters.

By ACB

July 12, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

JournalistBob-Dude, You said something truly transcendent this morning. For that I most thank you.

The thing is this: I forgot what it was.

Could you post it again, man? Thanx.

By Bob, Journalist

July 12, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

Land of Goshen! That was indeed the post I tried earlier to send to Shaun … now what could the other one have been?

By Yars

July 12, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this

Man, I say enjoy Andruw while you can. He ain’t going to be in a Braves uniform next season. Who will Atlanta get to replace him? It’s anyone’s guess. Can Brandon Jones play CF? I’m asking that in case Kelly Johnson is moved back to LF next season. Now Playing: London Calling by the Clash

By bravesfan

July 12, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this

FROM mlbtraderumors.com

Hal McCoy of the Dayton Daily News believes Junior will only go to Chicago or Atlanta

DOB do you see any chance of this happening?

By Salty

July 12, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

Diaz is like the old car you have; worth more to you than what you get selling it. Who out there will get you more value than what he gives…at par?

Pitching: everyone wants it; you have to overpay to get it…why play that game? If anything, get the bats in order…surely the bench can be improved in some significant way.

By ACB

July 12, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

Diaz is like the old car you have; worth more to you than what you get selling it. Who out there will get you more value than what he gives…at par?

Salty, I wish that was what Bob said, because that was great. And then I would know what I was supposed to thank Bob for.

But that wasn’t it. Not that there’s anything wrong with that.

By will from bama

July 12, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

Some very interesting reading and comments the last two days. Mrs. Rosalyn and Rickey Henderson thanks for the laughs. I agree with Don C about the availabilty of the starting pitchers that might be available, but I really look for John S to pick up a project with potential for a minimum. I’m sure they have scouts scouring the two leagues looking for the right fit.

By jbutler

July 12, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this

Hey Salty…as someone holding onto two such cars bluebooked at about zero - but can get me/my children to a hospital if needbe…I appreciated your reference.
If I give them to the Braves will they work in a trade for Franco? My cars are younger- probably faster.

By \\\\\\\\\\BERIGAN//////////

July 12, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

Did they do this after last year’s all star game??? This being only a handful of games played the first day of games after the break. Seems like every team played after the break, why such a light schedule????

By Bob, Journalist

July 12, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

ACB, I appreciate your having read my posts … most folks scroll past them. However, my having so done wouldn’t surprise me in the slightest but, since methinks they’re all truly transcendent, I wouldn’t know which one to select.

I really haven’t posted that many, so might I suggest your going back and rereading them all?

Don C, P-Town I wasn’t arguing the point … Don wouldn’t have have suggested it had he not had what he considered good reason … I just said it seemed to beg the question.

Don’s use of “maybe” actually triggered the post and it certainly suggested the desperation indicated in his response … I feel it’s difficult to have too many good pitching prospects but I’m not in a position to evaluate our current stable of prospects or the level of our desperation relative to expending current resources to obtain additional prospects or relievers for the purpose of facilitating possible trades.

As an aside, I too like Junior but am a little concerned over expending significant resources to acquire the services of any 37 year old with an adverse injury history, Andruw’s departure will certainly change the complexion of the outfield and the team but I don’t see that as a desperate situation … without specific regard to Junior’s situation, methinks the cumulative impact of having vigorously played in the outfield for many years doesn’t speak well for an aging player’s future.

Just heard the cowbell …

By dgd

July 12, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for the info on “One”—I’ve just ordered Solitary Man on Amazon. Isn’t the internet amazing……..

By Greg in TN

July 12, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Evening gang…

Intriguing information in terms of a potential payroll increase DOB. I’ve always had about $10 million extra on my wish list for Christmas, but I’m not gonna gripe about $15 or $20 million extra going into the payroll kitty. I’ll be eagerly waiting to see what Liberty’s intentions are in terms of how much of a bump we’ll see, whether it be obvious in terms of a big deal by the trade deadline, or whether we have to wait until the offseason to see what their intentions are for payroll for ‘08.

Thanks for passing that along to the masses.

By S T I N K Y

July 12, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Its a slow night. Anybody wanna fight about it?

By bravesfan

July 12, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

mets win 3-2

By TennesseePaul

July 12, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

h_Charles: I think you are the only one missing the point.
Lead Off hitter = 1st batter in the line up.
It’s that simple. Compare stats between Harris and KJ when they are in the #1 spot in the order, i.e. leadoff hitter, is fair and balanced. It’s the same thing for any other batter that bats first..
And the other side you missed, the leadoff hitter has more at bats in the game than any other batter. He is assured of that. So you want the guy who will be at the plate more frequently, to be a guy who can get on base more frequently. Some might call this guy a “table setter”
You’re hung up on the nomenclature. As long as this bothers you, think about this one. There are two stats for the sacrifice, the SF and SH. The Sacfly and Sacrifice hit. Sacrifice hit. Mull that one over for a while. When the baseball gods respond to your problem with the term “leadoff hitter”, ask ‘em about the Sacrifice Hit.

By songwriter jimmy smith

July 12, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

“Man In Socks”

Well, you wonder why I always wear my socks,

Why you never see flip flops on my feet,

And why does my appearance seem to have a somber tone.

Well, there’s a reason for the things that I have on.

I wear six socks for the poor and the beaten toes,

Livin’ in the airless, musty baseball shoes,

I wear them for the cobbler who has made my shoes for me

He cobbled them to make my feet feel free

I wear the socks for toes always hurt,

When I was young I drug them in the dirt

And though my shoes are two sizes big you see,

Mizuno says they are just right for me.

Well, the toes are doin’ mighty fine, I do suppose,

In a time of sore thumbs and hammock bones,

But just as we’re reminded to wear pants and jocks,

Up front there ought ‘a be a Man In Socks.

Well, there’s things that never will be right I know,

And things need changin’ everywhere you go,

But ‘til we start to make a move or they fire bobby cox,

You’ll never see me without three pair of socks

Ah, I’d love to wear a rainbow every day,

And tell the world that hoss is really gay,

One day i’ll make the announcement on FOX,

‘Till things are brighter, I’m the Man In Socks.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

July 12, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul Might have to bunt on that one……

By Gil In Mechanicsville

July 12, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

jimmy smith brings much levity to the blog. Who cares about trades? :-))))??

By Salty

July 12, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

ACB A comparison to Bob, Journalist…wow…thanks!

jbutler If I give them to the Braves will they work in a trade for Franco? My cars are younger- probably faster. Thanks for the chuckle!

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

July 12, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

So, what should the Braves do about 1st base. I don’t think Texiera is the answer. I advocated for him during the winter but I am not so sure he would come over to the Braves and tear it up. I think Atlanta should either hand the job over to Salty full time or set their sights a bit lower. A guy like Kevin Millar would be really nice. He could platoon with Salty and his presence in the clubhouse would be a gift from heaven. Not to mention I can’t imagine the O’s would ask that much for him. They sure wouldn’t ask for Salty or Escobar. I also like Carlos Pena, Ty Wiggingto, or Gabe Norton from the Devil Rays but you know they will ask for a king’s ramson. I have never understood how a team that can never win more than 45% of its games can think that all of their players are the second coming of 1927 Yankees. I think any of those Rays players would be help the Braves but not at the cost that the Devil Rays would ask. I also like the idea of Ryan Klesko from the Giants. Again, I can’t imagine the Giants would ask that much for him. Dmitri Young would be a nice fit as well but Jim Bowden is almost as delusional as the Devil Rays are.

Now, as for pitching, I think the Braves will again have to lower their expectations. I have heard the name Kyle Lohse and I pray the Braves don’t ever make that deal. I think Jason Jennigs from the Astros would be a Godsend. Matt Morris would be nice but could be a bit expensive. Guys like Snell and Gorzelany from the Pirates would be good but I really don’t see that happening.

Fact is, the starting pitching market is not that great and I just don’t know if there is anybody the Braves can legitimately acquire. Javier Vasquez could be a darkhorse but I have some doubts about him.

By TennesseePaul

July 12, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this

Gil, I’d bunt, but I’m the clean up hitter, despite the fact that I don’t come up in any inning on a regular basis with the bases loaded.

By Bob, Journalist

July 12, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this

Wolfpack Man

The ‘maters from the other man’s patch may have won a bunch of blue ribbons but somehow them what I nurtured and growed always taste sweeter to me.

With so many good looking ones starting to get ripe and with many new blossoms already on the vine … methinks we might just win a blue ribbon or three ourselves if we’ll just continue to provide water, the right amount of fertilizer and proper care.

I like that better than picking ‘em while they’re still green, selling ‘em and then buying the other feller’s stuff that’s available for sale.

The world turns on imports and exports but I don’t like leveraged, in-season trades … it’s sorta like changing the rules after the game has begun.

Methinks we’d have much greater fan support, empathy and interest if teams had to go with what they have within their own organization at the start of the season.

Were that to be the case, the game would be different and the Blog would certainly have a different focus as methinks we’d be suggesting ways our boys might improve rather than ways to get rid of the ones of whom we didn’t approve.

It’s not going to happen but the Braves are indeed adroit in the trading arena … so I would expect every effort is being made to address our needs so that we have a reasonable expectation of reaching and effectively competing in the post season activities.

I think we’re lucky that, though my “play with what you have” scenario will never be, our organization embraces the underpinning attitude better than most and personally, methinks it’s served them well.

You’re spot right on with what you say, especially with regard to the question we sometimes don’t correctly ask, and the blinding effect of the excitment of change!

By journalist jimmy smith

July 12, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

king george did not like the american colonists. in fact, king george thought the colonists were revolting. and why are there no british baseball players? bad teeth, maybe? anyway, jimmysmiththinks that the globalization of baseball is taking place but there are too few blokes to taking part. and can there truly be a world series without representation from the mother country? and how about that queen! still feisty. still younger than anne cox chambers. acc is sorta old for a girlfriend but who’s too judge?

By MurphyRules

July 12, 2007 11:11 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Have you checked out “Flight of the Conchords” on HBO? Something about that show that cracks me up. A friend described it as “Beavis and Butthead” meets “Cop Rock.”

By TexasBrave (formally known as Miller)

July 12, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

Mr. Bob - No truer words were ever blogged. I had to read it three times just to take it all in. Thanks

By WakeUp

July 12, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

Hey DonCoburleone…

Mets win, 3-2. El Duque gets the win in a well-pitched game. In your words….haha.

By David O'Brien

July 12, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

I don’t know about the Conchords. I haven’t gotten into it yet.

Just catching up on Rescue Me and Entourage from last couple weeks. Classic stuff.

By Chop Chop

July 12, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

SJS, “Man In Socks” is, hands down, the best song you’ve ever written. I am sure that the Man In Black is smirking in appreciation.

Little-known as I may be, I am also a songsmith. An appropriate ballad shall be presented for the blog very soon. Until then, I await my muse.

By ACB

July 12, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this

anne cox chambers… is sorta old for a girlfriend but who’s too judge?

jimmy-dude is dating Anne Cox Chambers? Wwwhooaaaa.

By Bob, Journalist

July 12, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

Salty, I’m not too sure I’d be eager to show such appreciation … many an innocent man has been hung as a result of guilt by association.

I too wish that was what I had said since that was part of what I was trying to say.

However, sometimes it’s what we don’t say that says the most.

By brian

July 12, 2007 11:58 PM | Link to this

Hopefully everyone’s asking price will settle down the closer we get to the trade deadline. I think it takes a lot of nerve to ask for Salty or Escobar for a lot of the players mentioned, but GMs are asking for Salty AND Escobar. The Jennings for Escobar and Harrison trade would be insane for the Braves.

I know that we should take a proven player over a prospect but you still have to consider the ceiling of the prospect and the quality of the proven player. I DO NOT WANT TO ADD SOMEBODY IF THE COST IS TOO HIGH LIKE SAN FRANCISCO WHEN THEY TRADED FOR AJ PIERZYNSKI AND GAVE UP FRANCISCO LIRIANO AND MULTIPLE OTHER TOP PICKS, OR THE HOUSTON ASTROS WHEN THEY TRADED FOR RANDY JOHNSON FOR 2 MONTHS (FREDDY GARCIA AND CARLOS GUILLEN I BELIEVE)

I would rather keep Salty and Escobar, playing them rather regularly now, keep Jo-Jo and Harrison for the future. If Chipper can stay healthy and Andruw starts to hit the Braves have a great chance to win the division this year standing pat. They also have a very bright future with these prospects.

By jon712

July 13, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this

John from Cincinnati is definitely worth checking out.

By The Grinch

July 13, 2007 12:15 AM | Link to this

JJS, great stuff. Great indeed; worthy of highest praise from a buzzed man.

My guitar freakin’ ROCKS. I’ve been playing it the last 6 1/2 hours, and I’m typing this mostly one handed. YAAAAAAAAAA. Crunch, crunch.

Bob, you sure you didn’t mean “hanged?” :-)

By DAP

July 13, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

All this talk about Julio Franco made me realize something. Escobar always reminded me of someone and i couldnt put my finger on it. I realized tonight after seeing replays of Franco bat on ESPN (they were talking about him getting dropped of course) that Escobar and franco have extremly similar batting stances, and the more i thought about it, i realized they have very similar approaches. escobar goes to right field alot, kinda like franco ALWAYS does…or did. i just thought that was interesting. maybe a glimpse into escobar’s future…

By Madeline Duncan Brown

July 13, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

Miss Madeline sending regards to the Lady Bird.

By Dwight Fry, executive producer

July 13, 2007 12:40 AM | Link to this

By now you must have heard about the ESPN series “The Bronx is Burning” which depicts the 1977 New York Yankees (e.g. John Turturro plays Billy Martin).

Well, this inspired me to make a film about the 2007 Braves: tentatively titled “Churning in Fulton”. The cast is set (see below) and I am now arranging financing for the approximately $20 million needed to make the film. Contributions are welcome.

CAST

Chipper Jones —- Mark Wahlberg

John Smoltz —- Aaron Eckhart

Tim Hudson —- Bruce Willis

Andruw Jones —- Cuba Gooding Jr

Jeff Francoeur —- Vince Vaughn

Kelly Johnson —- Edward Norton

Edgar Renteria —- Mike Epps

Willie Harris —- Don Cheadle

Brian McCann – Donal Logue

Matt Diaz —- Jack Black

Scott Thorman —- Scott Caan

Salty —- Eric Bana

Chuck James —- Jeremy Davies

Bob Wickman —- George Wendt

Chad Paronto —- Kevin James

Oscar Villareal —- Benicio Del Toro

Rafael Soriano —- Delroy Lindo

Greg Maddox —- Matthew Broderick

Terry Pendelton —- Kenan Thompson

Bobby Cox —- Charles Durning

John Scheurholz —- Martin Scorsese

Chip Caray —- Jim Carrey

Joe Simpson —- Bill Paxton

Liberty Media —- News Corp

Dave O’Brien —- Robert Downey Jr

By Bob, Journalist

July 13, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

Grincg, I’ll be hanged if I know what I meant, I just pasted what you sent me.

I ain’t hung up on proper usage … I figure one past participle is as good as another … either way you’re gonna have a sore neck or wind up dead.

Salty, If my remarks were unclear I was just observing that one should carefully consider those with whom his name is associated … and, now people are taking advantage and I’m getting all sorts of criticism when I was just trying to be friendly and nice.

By brian

July 13, 2007 12:52 AM | Link to this

speaking of similar batting styles, I still think Diaz reminds me of Bob Horner - stands pretty upright, extends his back, and has a pretty compact swing.

By The Grinch

July 13, 2007 12:59 AM | Link to this

Dwight, well done. Is it just me, or does Downey Jr. look at tad like a young Bill Bixby?

Bob, “hanged” refers to a man who’s being/been excecuted by slipknot (not the band). “Hung” refers to a man who’s got large genitalia. Hence the smiley face (please, trolls, don’t bother to make anything gay out of that).

By TexasBrave (formally known as Miller)

July 13, 2007 1:05 AM | Link to this

I just finished reading a Fox Sports article about Bryan Pena and how well he is doing at AAA, .328 BA. The article stated that since we have a plethora of young talented catchers that Brian, Salty or McCann could be traded. Now we all know that Fox did not speak with DOB or they would know that the Braves will not trade McCann. However they did also say that Pena could be kept for now because Salty and McCann are both playing hurt. Now I know about Bryan’s injuries, but unless they are talking about Salty getting hit in the head I must have missed some news about him. Anyone have any info on Salty?

By jed

July 13, 2007 1:33 AM | Link to this

jjs

‘the man in sox’ cracked me up. nice job.

By Bob, Journalist

July 13, 2007 2:03 AM | Link to this

Grinch, thanks for the enlightenment … I really didn’t know that … about slipknot being a band, that is.

However, methinks you might be putting me on as one cannot consistently misuse and abuse the language as do I without being familiar with the definitions, conjugation and the usage … but, more importantly, you too of my penchant for western novels and black and white “B” westerns.

I don’t mind so much if people read more into what I say than what is intended, including associating it with the despicable … if they choose to so do, that’s their problem, as they know it was not so intended.

What I do mind is when folks choose to engage in the use of offensive language through the use of commonly understood and accepted abbreviations … and have de gualle to consider it acceptable to so do.

That’s intentional gross misconduct designed to be offensive and to cheat the hangman … an “I am above the law” type of affront … for it is the spirit and the behavior, more than the language itself, that most find offensive.

I had never heard of the Slipknot … are they any good?

By Bob, Journalist

July 13, 2007 2:25 AM | Link to this

Christmas Stealer, I’m sure you’re aware but for those who aren’t … “you too” means “you know”; page 122 third, definition from the top in the Grinch-Bob code book.

It wasn’t my intent to be so outspoken with regard to the use of abbreviations in order to be vulgar and offensive … we each have our own standards and thoughts on the subject … but, regardless of what those are, so engaging says a lot about the ones choosing to so do.

By Jared

July 13, 2007 3:00 AM | Link to this

Where did this Jake Peavy stuff come from? Schuerholz could call and offer the Padres’ GM Saltalamacchia, Escobar, any three prospects of the Padres’ choosing from the Braves’ farm system and the naming rights to Turner Field and the Padres’ GM would still tell Schuerholz to take a long walk on a short pier.

By Bob, Journalist

July 13, 2007 3:01 AM | Link to this

TexasBrave, Back in the 1950s, I was doing a Death Claim study and came across a completed Name Change request form … from Jane Miller to Ivory Snow.

Any relation? Tis a true story … the reason given for the name change was Marriage.

I appreciate the Thanks … but, methinks you’ve got things reversed … tis thee, not me who deserves the thanks!

First, for taking the time to read it second for making me feel that it wasn’t an entirely wasted effort!

There aren’t many thoughts expressed on the Blog that haven’t already been thunk by others … it’s just sometimes good to post a reminder … good for them doin’ the the postin’ and them what’s doin’ the readin’.

Thanks!

By Serbok

July 13, 2007 3:34 AM | Link to this

By Bob, Journalist I hope all is well with you? I sincerely believe ALL is Well with our Bravos:o) To me it seems as tho everyone is Selling Davies “short” correct me if I am wrong (like I needed to really type that?) Hasnt Davies “shown” up in the so-called
mini “big games” in the first half? He is what? 23 years old? I dunno~ seems to me Davies is gonna have a very good 2nd half! As the pressure mounts. I have to agree with DOB’s latest article, the Braves could use some help with pitching. However, this is a SELLERS market? Once Yunel and Salty are gone!!!! For whatever is accepted in return~ Man, They are gone 4ever!!!!!!!! I just do not See any thing worth while on the market! The Bravo’s have the talent to win the division with the players that are on the roster now! I hope JS has a cooler head than some of the bloggers here have. 3 out of five to advance beyond the first round~correct? WOW To think of losing the kinda talent Salty and Escobar bring to the game for that roll of the dice just does NOT sound like logical thinking to me! The Braves and US fans need to have Faith! We matchup better with the Muts than they do with us? Innyway~ I directed this post to you Sir Bob~ Wanting to Inquire If you are related to the “White Knight?” If you are not certain~ Go Ask Alice? I think She’ll know:o)

By Serbok

July 13, 2007 4:00 AM | Link to this

Bob,Journalist “the blinding effect of the excitment of change!”

Wonderful words (insight!) I thank you!!! I always enjoy your posts!!!! You make me have to ummmmmmmmm Think? Man that can hurt sometimes~lol

The latter part of my previous post directed towards you~ was based on a Jefferson Airplane song~ called White rabbit~ It was NOT intended to be anything other than what it is~ :o)

By Bob, Journalist

July 13, 2007 4:16 AM | Link to this

We may well know the inner workings of the clock … but we’re just fooling ourselves if we think we know what makes each man tick.

We will continue to be surprised at the trades that are made and those that are not … at our failures who elsewhere succeed … at the prospects who turn into suspects and then into stars.

The successful trader identifies a need … the other trader’s need not his … figures out how to fill that need to his advantage and then sets the stage so that the one with whom he wants to trade becomes aware of the need and the solution.

The successful long con takes time; that why it’s so called … and usually involves allowing the mark to con you into doing what you want to do.

Don’t be surprised by anything that happens … or doesn’t happen.

Were it me, I wouldn’t be looking at players as much as I would be looking at those who successfully have put together young pitching staffs, bringing them along faster than expected on low budgets and without much ado … they’re the ones in which I’d be interested, methinks.

By Bob, Journalist

July 13, 2007 4:20 AM | Link to this

Serbok, I haven’t time to read your posts but I’ll try to so do in about 2 hours and respond!

Take care!

By Coach (Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 13, 2007 4:57 AM | Link to this

Two quick points and I’ll shut up and read the rest of the blog later on in the morning. John Schuerholz knows that Andruw is gone. In that light , trading Salty or Escobar is paramount to suicide. The Braves will need every available bat and glove in order to make up the loss of AJ’s gold glove and bat in 2008. The Braves need to get either Contreras or Vasquez if the WhiteSox decide to trade one of them before July 31st. The reason being is , the Braves cannot compete in the free agent market when it comes to big name pitching and nobody should be pinning their hopes on Mike Hampton in 2008. The Braves need another quality veteran starter right now or they have to pretty much hope that the Mets don’t get hot and run away with the division.

By JasonInMaine

July 13, 2007 7:12 AM | Link to this

McBride pitched the 7th last night for the Tigers…struck out the side on 12 pitches…9 strikes

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 13, 2007 7:29 AM | Link to this

Ah…. uncertainty, it is what makes life interesting. Will they stay, will they go? Who will get hurt, who will get hot? It’s is why they have to play the game. A bad call, a missed sign. Only in baseball can a season turn on a single play or one lapse in judgment. Ask Bill Buckner and Grady Little about those.

If we knew the outcome before the event we would be a seer of the first order and likely wealthy to boot, but alas we would also know the time of our passing and the means by which it will occure, a most distressful thought.

So let it be that baseball is an exiting game full of uncertainties. All I ask is the team leaves it all on the field. It is what inspires me to watch and cheer on my side.

Half hearted and lackadaisical play is what will turn me against a player more than lack of talent. Failure to work hard at achieving one’s full potential is a most frustrating thing to me.

Most are not blessed with the physical make up to achieve greatness. That does not mean they should not try. It is why I loved players like Pete Rose and even our own Mark Lemke. It is why Phillies fans love Arron Rowan. Maximum effort all the time. It’s why Scott Thorman will be successful. Maybe not this year but he will learn.

So let us prepare for the second half, we know Bobby Cox does not give up and expects his players to follow that example. If we finish less than champions so be it. Just go at it hard every day, make sure the other team has to beat you. Never give up.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 13, 2007 7:41 AM | Link to this

Jason Doesn’t that just make your day? McBride always had the ability but just could not fix the flaw in is delivery to be effective for the Braves. Maybe the shock of being traded made something click or maybe the Tiger’s staff is better than the Braves.

Glad he has had success with the Tigers though as I like that team. I respect the manager and Verlander is a local kid. Plus Sean Casey played for University of Richmond and could always hit. He is one I wish the Braves had gone after.

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 7:56 AM | Link to this

Morning All! I intend to do a lot more lurking and a lot less talkin’ today. I’m sure that will please many.

But, before I become speachless I do want to clarify something. The other day I “threw in” that I was part of the aerial search team when Roberto Clemente’s plane went down. Actually, my squadron was operating in the area and we were asked to “over-fly” the actual SAR operation and give help with communication, etc. I didn’t mean to imply that I jumped into the water, or anything.

And lastly, about Clemente himself. He had bought the goods, leased the plane, help load it, and was riding in the back with the cargo to help unload it when they arrived at their destination. There he would have mingled with the people, especially the children, and let them “experience” him. Contrast that with players who live in gated-communites and play golf all off-season. Or who hunt jackrabbits or rattlesnakes or whatever the F they hunt in Tex@$$. Now, back to my coffee.

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

July 13, 2007 8:05 AM | Link to this

Bob Wickman —- George Wendt

Great stuff!

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 13, 2007 8:08 AM | Link to this

And while I have the blog to myself this morning,

A shout out to jimmy smith. As our good friend Journist Bob would say, “methinks” you should add finger care as equally important as good toe health. Should be a simple task if you would simply refer to them as phalanges as that would encompass all of those important digits.

We have seen the disastrous results of injuries to BMac and Hoss this year and how seemingly innocuous events can affect the team for long periods. So lend us a hand oh wise one and expand on your crusade.

Maybe it dose not have the same ring to it but phalanges health is all encompassing. I know from experience how a blow to one’s small digit can affect one’s performance abet it was not a phalanges.

By JasonInMaine

July 13, 2007 8:10 AM | Link to this

Gil,

I hope McBride is successful. The shock of the trade, the change in scenery, or maybe a fresh perspective from a new pitching coach…any or all of these things may contribute to Macay realizing his potential.

Ledezma’s value to the Braves will be in the future, IMO. As many have mentioned, including DOB, he is probably better served in a starting role. Personally, I feel that if he has a future with the Braves it will be in that capacity.

More rumors out there that the Braves are interested in Tex. Personally, if they could get him without trading Salty; they would have to consider it. If the Braves could get Tex and Vazquez somehow (or similar quality), I really, really like our chances. Of course, that all depends on the amount of money they are going to be allowed to add to payroll this year and beyond. Maybe the Sox would pay some money as part of a deal…

Regards,

Jason

By Bob, Journalist

July 13, 2007 8:23 AM | Link to this

Serbok, I think I understand the Lewis Carroll White Knight reference but the only way that I am related is that some folks call me Lewis Junior, after the Great Grizzard, though he himself was the Junior, and my wife’s name is Carol and mama used to spell it Carroll.

I do remember the Jefferson Airplane and the White Rabbit but more because of Jack Casady, the name and the notoriety than anything else.

Thanks for askin! When folks ask how I’m adoin’, I generally tell ‘em “I’m here!” … which, from where I sit, is pretty good!

It seems we share some of the same thoughts, hopes, and concerns regarding this team of ours … methinks you’re close to the mark if not right on spot!

I certainly believe that it’ll be fun and exciting … and we have good reason to be optimistic. Kyle’s very talented and I think he’s close to finding consistency … his last outing was certainly encouraging to me in that he seemed to be throwing with more confidence, ala Buddy Carlyle, and didn’t seem to be overthrowing or guiding the ball when he needed to make a pitch … we’ll see.

I can’t take credit for “the blinding effect of the excitment of change!” … I just abused and misused WolfPack Man’s words a bit … ‘twas him what thunk the thought and tis he that deserves your applause!

However, I appreciate your kind words … all of them … but, I can’t take credit for making you think … that’s your doin’ not mine … but I’m as pleased with myself as was Punch to think that my posts might sometimes bring a smile to your face or prompt you to ponder. That’s why I do it and positive exchanges with folks like you, that make me smile and/or think, is how I get paid.

Close minded folks who consider their opines to be gospel and disagreement an indication of stupidity, don’t know what they’ve been missin’, oh boy!

By flange1

July 13, 2007 8:24 AM | Link to this

Hey Grinch,

Guitar review?

By Salty

July 13, 2007 8:25 AM | Link to this

Dwight Fry Andruw Jones - Cuba Gooding,JR…spot on!

Bob, J Not the least unclear at all on your message, nor concerned with ‘guilt by association’, Sir. Hung/hanged…don’t much matter what you got or how…dead is dead.

As for this little gem We may well know the inner workings of the clock ……do you use the darn thing, or live by (multiple) power naps?!?

By Bryan

July 13, 2007 8:40 AM | Link to this

DOB, were you talking about the video for Hurt? That is a heart breaker …

So how bad does NOT signing Darrell Ward look now? He spent 15 on the DL but he has come back and boasts a .327 BA - no homers - but some pop nonetheless …

If John S reads this blog, as much as I do, thats the questions I would like answered - not all this “BLA BLA” about Hampton or Hudson … we had a chance to sign a great bench component, a good “Braves Guy,” and a MUCH better option than Craig Wilson (or what CW turned out to be). WTF! (JS you might need a niece or nephew to translate WTF)

I believe this mistake cost the Braves a few games… with CW’s anemic bat and poor defense to start the year … and all the times we have had to pinch hit for a pitcher with Chris Woodward…

Bryan

(it takes some Cash talk to pull me out of the observer blogger role and into the fray)

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 13, 2007 8:49 AM | Link to this

Grinch I guess being “hung up” in the barbed wire would be a most excruciating experience as opposed to being “hanged” in it. :-))

By Lee

July 13, 2007 8:53 AM | Link to this

Chip Carey - Jim Carey

Always thought they looked very much alike……Funny stuff Dwight Fry.

By Bob, Journalist

July 13, 2007 8:59 AM | Link to this

Gill, methinks if Jimmy starts talking about the phalanges, he best be careful or folks will get all confused … however, it might help some with their math … those who can now count up to 20, could go all the way up to 56 on dem bones.

I agree that it allows for greater insight, but don’t you think it’s getting a little too personal … “Hoss is back on the DL, … this time it’s a minor problem with the 2nd phalanx of the middle toe on his right foot” … what would folks think?

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 9:00 AM | Link to this

OK, y’all smoked me out already.

I would certainly rather be hung than hanged. And that’s my story and I’m stickin’ to it.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 13, 2007 9:03 AM | Link to this

Okay folks, have fun today. I need to get out and mow the lawn before the sun gets up too high. Have a good day all.

By raindawg722

July 13, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this

Gil in Mechanicsville,

The 7:29 was inspiring. It reminded me of the Jimmy V speech. You’re not a high school basketball coach by any chance are you?

By Bob, Journalist

July 13, 2007 9:21 AM | Link to this

Salty, For a long time I thought I was getting 12 hours of sleep until I realized that my clock was broken.

I’m fixin’ to take one of those power naps … I’m tired so it may be a long one … I’m supposed to complete the revisions to my horse racing projection system by the end of next month and have about 400 hours left to do but with a night game that’s televised, I’m gonna get some sleep and work on that later.

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this

I’m going to follow Gil’s lead and mow my weeds. Or else, l’occasion fait le larron. To those who do not speak French, get Lew to translate it for you. On second thought, don’t! I probably screwed it up.

By Lee

July 13, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this

I would certainly rather be hung than hanged. And that’s my story and I’m stickin’ to it.

Paladin - Never really replied to any of your comments before - this one is too priceless not to say I agree completely.

By Epinephrine

July 13, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this

I wish we could trade the fans that want to trade McCann.

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

Just heard JS on WFAN in New York,

He said that the Braves had no plans to try and improve their bullpen.

He also said they had no plans to talk to Andruw about an extension.

He talked about payroll constraints.

Not much really.

By Kojak

July 13, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this

Who loves ya, baby?

By DAP

July 13, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

TGIF! man ive missed braves baseball. im looking forward to the braves crushing the baseball tonight, and a gem from tim hudson.

By Roger Miller

July 13, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

dang me, dang me, they oughta take a rope and hang me, hang me from the highest tree, willow won’t you weep for me, do do do do dee do.

By Roger Miller

July 13, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

i hear tell you’re doin’ well, good things have come to you. i wish i had your good luck charm and you had a doo wacka doo wacka doo wacka doo wacka doo.

By Bond, James Bond

July 13, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this

This 4 days of non-Braves baseball has seemed like an eternity. I am ready to see some action and fast. Not to mention that this blog has suffered lately also. Too much talk and not enough action. Reminds me of my last movie.

Martini … shaken not stirred. Need this bad after reading serveral recent posts.

By geauxbraves2000

July 13, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this

He said that the Braves had no plans to try and improve their bullpen.

Na, no need to try to improve them, with an era hovering around 1.00, why try to fix…oh, that’s SD’s bullpen, my mistake, I guess we wouldn’t want to resemble theirs.

He also said they had no plans to talk to Andruw about an extension.

No reason to have that gold glove CF out there, (though he is struggling offensively) and a power bat in the middle of the lineup.

He talked about payroll constraints

Blah blah blah.

If it weren’t for the Mets troubles, The Braves could be 10 - 15 games back by now. Just because they are only 2 1/2 back doesn’t mean this is a good team. They need to get something done, need a SP, need some bench, and another arm in the pen wouldn’t hurt.

Geaux Braves!!

By MEB

July 13, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

Journalist Jimmy… Kudos my friend for Man in Socks! Really top notch stuff but I must ask who do you have in mind to sing these lyrics. Is this country or more folk type music. Willie Nelson? Jimmy Buffet?? Weird Al???

GO BRAVES!!!

By Wolfpack Man

July 13, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Bob J

Thanks for the copyright in correcting Serbok on the “blinding, excitement, change stuff.”

By StingerSplash

July 13, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

As we head into the unofficial second half of the season, let’s hear from Mr. Ray Davies … And now you’re back where you started Here we go round again Day after day I get up and I say Do it again Do it again Do it again

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

GeauxBraves2000,

I think the Braves need to get one more bullpen arm, one more starter and one more solid veteran bat for the bench. They probably won’t accomplish any of that.

By ColdHardFact

July 13, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Somebody should string some razor wire around this loony bin so none of you freaks can get out and maybe harm decent folk.

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

Just returned. It’s raining.

Bond, James Bond Martinis before the sun is over the yardarm? Bad scene, Dude. Bad scene!

By ColdHardFact

July 13, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

Met Roger Miller once. Looked like a cat’s a* with teeth.

By Shaun

July 13, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist,

I think I understand your view of the situation.

I guess I still say in a weird, backwards sense Bonds did not cheat, per se. He’s never tested positive for anything that was banned, that we know of.

If the commissioner tried to banish him, the union and Bonds’s lawyers would be all over him and it would be more trouble than it’s worth for the commissioner to try to just banish Bonds.

“When evaluating a player for whom we have cause to believe (feel certain, strongly suspect, or can prove)* cheated* … for the purposes of acknowledgment and recognition of his achievements … do you believe that we should take into account the fact or probability that the player could have been great even if he had not cheated?”

To answer your question, I do believe we should take into account the fact that the player could have been great had he not cheated. But, again, I think in a weird, backwards way you could say Bonds did not cheat. Why? Because baseball didn’t test for steroids until 2002 and didn’t have a strong suspension policy until 2005 and as far as we know Bonds has never failed a steroid test.

But, I do agree that we have good reason to believe Bonds used PEDs so we just have to attach that stigma to his statistical totals. That’s about all we can do and all Selig can do. It’s not worth the money, time, energy, fight with the union, controversy it would bring to the game, etc. to try to punish Bonds at this point, it doesn’t seem.

I think you can’t just say the legal, technical side of this doesn’t matter. This is the reason Selig can’t ban Bonds and just take away certain stats.

Now, if you’re talking about Selig being there to “honor” the record, I’m not sure how I feel.

On the one hand, Selig has to want to attach the steroid stigma to Bonds and other records of this era. By not showing up, this may be him doing his part in that.

On the other hand, not showing up kind of makes Selig look bad. Yes, the players deserve most of the blame for the PED problem in baseball but Selig deserves some of the blame for sweeping the issue under the rug when it was convenient to do so for his own personal benefit.

In my opinion, Selig should just address the issue and be straight forward.

He should make a public statement to the fans. Something like: “The players failed you, the owners and I failed you. From this point forward we are working with the players and doing all we can to clean up the game. Unfortunately we can’t erase the past. We ask that you and the historians and the analyst decide what to make of the numbers of the recent past era in which we failed you. From this point forward it is a new era in baseball. May the game live on in the hearts and minds of all who love it. Thank you and good night.”

By Salty

July 13, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Paladin It’s post-‘tea time’ in England! Bond’s just warmin’ up for a swingin’ night on the town! :-)

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

Razor wire wouldn’t help ColdHardFact. We are subterranean.

By Lee

July 13, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

In other words J.S. sounds like he is going to do absolutly nothing. Mets will add another pitcher and probably a 1 or 2 starter. A few weeks ago, I felt the Braves should not make any deal. All of that may depend on what the Mets will do to improve. If the Mets acquire a good starting pitcher, the Braves are going to have to make a trade.

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

Salty Touche. Actually, I have a clock over my bar with nothin’ but 5s on it. And if I get good n’ ready, I say I know it’s 5 o’clock, somewhere.

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

Regardless of what the Mets do, we need to make a trade to help this team. If you don’t believe that they do need to make a trade. your insane.

By Luther

July 13, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

I’m not sure that the NY radio station is where JS plans to announce the Blockbuster 4-way trade that will net the Braves Jake Peavy, Roy Oswalt, Mark Texeirra, and Carl Crawford while only giving up Woodward, Orr, and the PTBNL from the Langerhans trade. He would probably run it by DOB and the BravesBlog first.

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Efrim What part of me do you refer to when you say “your insane”? Most people think it is all of me.

By Salty

July 13, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Thanks, Efrim! Between you and ColdHardFact, it’s now well established that bloggers are, for the most part, insane. It does the beg the question, ‘why do you visit’? Are you here to lay the razor wire…take Paladin’s note to heart, if so.

Also, since contractions lessons have been meted out this week, it isn’t ‘your insane’, it’s ‘you’re insane‘…as in you are…or perhaps you are not! :-0

Just havin’ fun with y’all!

By DirtyDawg

July 13, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

Whataya mean if it weren’t for the Met troubles they’d have a 10-15 game lead?…and if it weren’t for the Braves troubles, we’d have the same lead. So what’s your point, ‘if ifs and buts were candy and nuts we’d all have a Merry Christmas?

And Cowman’s right…I’d rather miss the playoffs than lose Escobar or Salty. After all we are gonna be in a pennant race so going to the games will still be fun right up to the end - whenever that is. Besides, it’ll be football season then.

I still say that Bobby needs to put Yates in the mix for the closer job…and to start this second half with a ‘shoot till you hit then shoot till you miss’ approach - if Wickman fails then the next night it’s Soriano…then Yates…and so-on. If any one of them succeed, then they stay in the job till they don’t.

Hey folks, Jake Peavy will pitch for the Braves…someday. He said as much in a Sports Illustrated piece several weeks ago. Don’t know exactly how many more years he has on his current contract, but he said he dreams of playing closer to his Alabama home, and he grew up a Braves fan. Gee I wonder who he might be talking about.

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

The right-hander began the season 5-1 with a 1.77 ERA in his first nine starts, then went 3-4 with a 5.63 ERA in his last 10 starts before the All-Star Break.

If Hudson pitches poorly in the second half and finishes with an ERA of 4.20, do you trade him this offseason?

I think you could get a valuable piece for him. Maybe not a A+ prospect, but definetly something of value.

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

BTW, y’all let me know when you are ready to get your “game faces” on and talk some cirus baseball and I will knock it off with my 1-liners. Until then, however, this blog is in serious need of some “fill”.

By ColdHardFact

July 13, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

Yes that was a pretty good ditty that Man in Socks thing. I bet the kindergartner that put that beaut together made his parents real proud.

By TexasBrave (formally known as Miller)

July 13, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist

As per your 3:01 post (what too late for me) I have no knowledge of a Jane Miller nor Ivory Snow, I am sure I would have heard about that story if were in my family tree.

As per your 11:03 post I believe it would make the MLB season even more interesting if teams were not allowed to trade during the season and had to stand with what they brought into the season. It is cheating to go out and get something you didn’t have before just to win the game. However, if injuries did occur we still might have to pick the green ‘maters before they are ripe. But then again even green ‘maters will ripen under the right circumstances and care.

By ColdHardFact

July 13, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

If you(paladin) really wanted to talk cirus baseball, you wouldn’t be a Braves fan.

By Ron

July 13, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

Simply put:

Trade: Chris Woodward for ARod. (to clear up some of the braves payroll for next season.

Trade: Davies for Jake Peavy (although this may seem a bit of a dumb move since Davies is having a steller year)

Trade: Bryan McCann, Salty, Escobar, Frnchy, Smoltz, and Hudson to the Mets for Julio Franco (to answer our needs at first) & can also platoon with Thorman

By The Grinch

July 13, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

Ohhh, my head! Flange, I love it quite dearly. It unexpectedly came with a Kahler Flyer tremolo instead of the Floyd Rose, but I like the bar angle on that better anyway for serious dive bombing. Good set-up straight from the factory; action just the way I like it. Nasty, crunchy EMG’s. For the money, there was alot of attention paid to detail; this will probably not be my last ESP. Since I’ve got his guitar now, maybe when Jeff Hanneman retires he’ll let me take his place in Slayer. Now, a tall glass of water and a nap.

BTW, Hillbilly, just saw the photo you posted yesterday; add some back hair and change the light beer to dark and we might be on to something.

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

ColdHardFact that was a pretty good ditty that Man in Socks thing. I bet the kindergartner that put that beaut together made his parents real proud.

On ancient maps they had a section that warned: “Beyond here lie dragons”.

You, troll, are approaching that area—fast!

By Kojak

July 13, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

The Mets are overrated!

What are the most important positions in the lineup? 1-6 right? Are the Mets better than Braves in those lineup slots? Nope!

Are the Mets better in the pen? Nope!

Are the Mets better with their rotation? It would appear that way. But are they really placing all their eggs in the basket of Glavine, Sosa, Maine, Duque, and Perez? Gradually, they will go to hell with that handbasket.

Are they really trusting Billy Wagner to save a big game for them? LOL! The longer the Braves hang around, the better the chances are Billy Wagner wets the bed when Hoss comes up in the ninth and takes him deep again in a big spot, reminding those dweebs yet again why they call him Larry and why his baby is called Shea. LARRY! Git ‘em Hoss!

What we need for the second half is this: 20-10 in the starts of Smoltz and Hudson, 9-6 in the starts of Chuck James, 8-6 in the starts of Davies, and 7-7 in the starts of Buddy. That would leave the Braves 91-71. That would make the Braves 44-29 in the second half with those guys. Not unreasonable considering the Braves are 45-34 when those guys started in the first half. That will take the division.

We know we are going to duplicate our 6-3 against the Mets again in the second half. That’s why that 3 game lead in the loss column means nothing. We actually start the second half dead even with the Mets if you wanna be real about it all.

MAGIC NUMBER IS 77! Keep the faith, y’all, ya’ll, yawl.

And yous guys, do you hear the train a comin’, rollin’ around the bend, and you ain’t seen the sunshine since 1986, you’re stuck in postseason prison, and time keeps draggin’ on, but those Braves keep a rollin’ down to div - ision, when you were just a baby, your momma told you, son, always be a good boy, don’t play wit’ Braves, but you threw a Wagner to Chipper just to watch him hit, now every time you hear the whistle, you hang your head and cry,

By Scoff

July 13, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

How does woodward for franco sound in a deal with the mets?

By Shaun

July 13, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave (formally known as Miller),

Making trades are within the rules, so it’s not cheating.

Also, would it make it more interesting or less interesting? Obviously that’s subjective but I don’t know how exciting it would be if you knew basically what kind of team the Braves were going to be from a certain point on.

Also, what about injuries? Say Chipper Jones breaks his leg a week or two into the season. Say the Braves know they can go out and get a half-way decent 3B that a bad team wants to get rid of and they have no quality backups or prospects who can play 3B. How would it be more interesting to see a fringe player in place of Chipper instead of a quality major league 3B?

In my opinion trades make the game more interesting and gives more teams a chance.

It’s kind of like when free agency first came along people said it was bad because the rich teams would get all the star players. That has happened during some periods, but also it has enabled traditionally bad teams able to improve quickly or has enabled a team that finished in the cellar one season to improve greatly the next season.

By metsmanintheatl

July 13, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

what are you smokin’?…mets by 20

By Kojak ..... no longer Braveheart

July 13, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Yes, Braveheart has changed his name to Kojak for a fresh start to the second half of his rookie season.

Leadoff:

Mets: .829 OPS, .389 OBP, 64 runs, 36 RBIs, 4 homers, 96 Runs + RBIs - homers;

Braves: .804 OPS, .370 OPS, 59 runs, 47 RBIs, 8 homers, 98 Runs + RBIs - homers.

ADVANTAGE: EVEN

By Kojak ..... Who loves ya, baby?

July 13, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

#2:

Mets: .773 OPS, 9 homers, 49 runs, 47 RBI, 87 Runs + RBIs

Braves: .833 OPS, 57 runs, 40 RBIs, 5 homers, 92 Runs + RBIs

ADVANTAGE: BRAVES!

By Lew

July 13, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

Efrim-If Hudson performs badly the second half of the season, just how the hell do you trade him for someone who is better? Do you realize that that point of view bears no inkling of realism or logic?

By Kojak ..... Who loves ya, baby?

July 13, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

#3

Mets: .787 OPS, 48 runs, 56 RBIs, 15 homers, 89 R+RBI-HR

Braves: .965 OPS, 65 runs, 60 RBIs, 20h homers, 105 R+RBI-HR

ADVANTAGE: BRAVOS IN A LANDSLIDE

By Arkansas Hillbilly

July 13, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Right on, Grinch,

I actually had a picture of a big-a$$ black bear standing on a porch beside a flower pot at night, that I was gonna post and caption as “Grinch was surprised to find out what was really eating his roses.”

OMG!! Massive storm just hit me. Gotta go.

By Kojak ..... Who loves ya, baby?

July 13, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

CLEANUP:

Mets: .721 OPS, 42 runs, 50 rbis, 13 homers, 79 runs +rbis-homers

Braves: .760 OPS, 48 runs, 61 RBIs, 15 homers, 94 Runs + RBIs - homers

ADVANTAGE: LOS BRAVOS! ….. amazin! despite all of Dru’s troubles …. thanx Carlos Delgado

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

Lew(Fool),

How about dealing Hudson for a PROSPECT? Who isn’t major league proven, but has upside???

Adam Miller, Brendan Morrow? Guys like that.

By Ron

July 13, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

Its good to be back!!! We should look to try trading for a lefty reliever!!! It would be nice to get a Descent Starter!!! But we will see what happens!!!

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

Lew,

It is getting old man. It really is. My point about Hudson is this. We still have no financial flexibility this offseason. NONE. Maybe 6 million to work with. If Hudson has a bad second half, is owed 13 million a year the next two years, don’t you think it would warrant them thinking about trading him for a younger pitcher and then using the money that they saved to sign a free agent pitcher who is on the market? It warrants some thought. It is a reasonable question. They tried to deal him this offseason, and then sign a 41 year old pitcher to take his place. They did try to do that.

By Shaun

July 13, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Kojak,

There’s a better way to do what you’re doing.

Mets: 397 R, .268 AVG/.333 OBP/ .420 SLG, 107 OPS+

Braves: 409 R, .269/.333/.423, 106 OPS+

Mets have allowed fewer runs. As you can see, the offense looks close to even.

Take into account all this plus the objective pre-season projections, I think the Mets have a slight edge.

Although I don’t think it’s a huge when. Certainly with a few breaks and/or some luck, the Braves would win the division. And even if they don’t win the division, I think they have as good a shot as anyone at the Wild Card.

In my opinion, the outlook for the Braves is not as good as a lot of the optimistic posters think and not as bad as a lot of the pessimistic posters or nonobjective Mets fans think.

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

July 13, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

Hillbilly:

You ok?

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Two years ago the White Sox acquired Javier Vasquez from the D Backs for minor league CF Chris Young. Young was considered a big time prospect at the time. Vasquez’s numbers in 2005 with Arizona:

215.2 innings pitched, 223 hits allowed, 35 HR given up, 46 BB, 192 K’s 4.42 ERA. He went 11-15.

Arizona got a very good prospect in return for Vasquez who had a sub par year. It happens.

By chrisklob

July 13, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

Lew, did you ever hear back from Seth?

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

Efrim I’d as soon try to take a banana away from Willie B as call Lew a fool. Do you have a deathwish, son?

By Lew

July 13, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

Efrim-(Yeah, right, I counsel logic so I’M the fool?)-Sure lets trade a pitcher who you don’t think is doing well, yet who won 13 games last year for a losing team, despite having a poor (for him) year and this year has won 7 (should have been 10) in half a season. By doing this, we will get a “prospect” (God, don’t you just love that term?), who may, or may not ever win 13 games on a good year or a bad one. Then, when this “prospect” doesn’t lead us to the promised land, we can all sit here and p!$$ and moan about how we gave up a 13 game winner, have no pitching and can’t develop our own. And then, OH Yeah, we can sit and p!$$ and moan some more about how we have no hope of winning and won’t make the playoffs again, because we have no pitching. My God, Dude, you are a complete frickin’ moron, without a clue on how to put a team together, nor a clue about how you go about filling needs. And you call me a fool? Whatever.

By Bigboi

July 13, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

Are you OK Arkansas Hillbilly?

By beachcomber

July 13, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

Ahh real baseball is just six hours away as I post. Had to settle for the Yanks playing our local AAA club last night.

Couldn’t help noticing the piece in AJC about Mark Cuban interested in the Cubs. I hope someone else gets that franchise and Mark bids for the Braves in a few years. Just like the old days with Ted - an owner with passion!

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Lew,

We tried to trade the guy this past offseason. If he has ANOTHER POOR YEAR, JS is going to try and deal him again. Count on it.

By Shaun

July 13, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

Kojak,

What does R + RBI - HR tell us about individual players/spots in the order?

R and RBI are still very dependent on players in front of or behind the hitter in the order.

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

Paladin,

You’re lame. What deathwish? It is a blog.

By brian

July 13, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

by Peter Gammons on ESPN.com

The Braves are convinced that Yunel Escobar is a star, another name to be added to the National League young shortstop museum with Hanley Ramirez, Jose Reyes, J.J. Hardy, Jimmy Rollins, Troy Tulowitzki, Khalil Greene, Rafael Furcal, Stephen Drew et al.

Either that means they are going to deal him and trying to drive up his price or they have decided to keep him. Any thoughts?

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

Lew,

3-4 with a 5.63 ERA his past ten starts. Not saying he will be terrible in the second half, but if he is??? Deal him.

For someone who ranks the Mets poor performance and says that it isn’t a slump, and that it is a realistic fact that they aren’t good, COULDN’T YOU SAY THE SAME ABOUT HUDSON???

By David O'Brien

July 13, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Meant to say the Cash “Hurt” video, not “One.” The Hurt video is the gut-wrenching 4-5 minutes of J.R. singing at the piano, while they play footage from his younger years interspersed with scenes of him and June, etc. Just incredible. Anyway, I said “One” because of sleep deprivation, I’m sure. I had literally slept for a total of less than one hour in a 40-hour stretch until finally getting 8 hours last night.

Now I’m ready. Pumped to get this thing started again. You folks excited about the second half? I’m just glad it’s going to be a race. Would’ve sucked going back into this thing down 10 games at the break. Gonna be interesting, now.

By Shaun

July 13, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

Efrim and Lew,

I don’t think Hudson’s going anywhere during the season unless the Braves were to somehow fall way out between now and the trade deadline.

If they move Hudson, the pitching staff gets even worse and it’s not as if the Braves are out of it this year.

I actually do think trading a pitcher like Hudson—a 31-year-old, slightly above average guy—for a top prospect (like a Chris Young at the time of the Vazquez trade) is a good idea in a lot of cases. Just not while the team still has a shot as at the post-season during this year.

Chris Young (the D-Backs OF) is going to be a good player, I would put money on it.

By ColdHardFact

July 13, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

So paladip, would a dude pulling a dude down the street in drag be considered a dragon? How’s the heartburn?

By TennesseePaul

July 13, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

This Franco has lost it business is easy to fix. You say his bat speed is slow? Simple. Take away Franco’s Tree Trunk he swings and replace it with a baseball bat. Perhaps one that is lighter than 15 pounds, like say, Woodward’s toothpick. That should speed up the swing a bit.

By Salty

July 13, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Efrim You could save the blog space and time by e-mailing Lew…especially since you’re often ‘blogging’ him directly. Of course, his ‘in-box’ will be ringing faster than he can reply, just like on this site.

By Lew

July 13, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Efrim-I will try this one more time, real slowly, so even someone of YOUR limited intelligence can understand. Answer this question-Do you want to win now, next year, or in the future? If you want to win now and next year, you have a couple of options-A,Stand pat and, since we’re as close as we are with the players we have, go for it B. Trade a couple of pieces that are tradeable, for upgrades to what we now have. If you want to win in the future but don’t care what happens right now, you trade Renteria, Wickman and Hudson, thereby dumping salary and (hopefully) getting a few young players with this famous “upside” you continually throw all over the place, and you build for a couple years from now. As far as dumping salary to pick up free agents-When was the last major free agent signing by the Braves? Do you realize what prime pitching costs these days? Do you realize what DECENT or even Average pitching costs? Dude, Hudson, if he is truly a #3 type starter, as opposed to an ace or #2, will next year be making #3 starter $$$$, maybe even less, depending on salary inflation in the offseason-this year he’s making #4-5 $$$$. Prime pitching is now signing contracts exceeding $100 million-average pitching (see Ted Lilly), is signing $55 million contracts (as of LAST year). The Braves apparently don’t have that kind of $$$, or the players of that caliber would already be here. That type of pitching would also be pitching for the Mets, who supposedly have the rest of all the money in the world that Steinbrenner doesn’t have. But yet, they don’t have it either and neither do the Yankees. This could be the result of two things A. They don’t have the $$, either or B. There isn’t that much good pitching out there to begin with. You’re advocating dumping a pitcher with a pretty damn good track record (even in his worst year) for someone who you THINK will be good. You do realize, of course, that upside is the term used for a player who the “experts” THINK will maybe, possibly, sometime in the future, be good. Thank whatever diety you choose, you don’t GM a pro team. You wouldn’t be very successful.

By Tomahawkin' Again

July 13, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

DOB, good to read that you’re tanned, rested and ready for the Hunt for a Tomhawkin’ October. Braves Nation certainly is! Have you been down in the clubhouse yet today or have had a chance to talk to anyone (players, Bobby, etc.) in the last few days to get a sense of the pulse of the team heading into the 2nd half? Are they openly talking about taking advantage of this homestand? I mean for me, anything less than a 7-3 stand will be a disappointment. The Muts are vulnerable…important to keep the pressure on them in the next few weeks leading to the Aug 7-9 series in Shea.

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

I never said during the season. If the guy has a sub par second half, then deal him this winter. Some team will bite and give a pretty good prospect.

By ssiscribe

July 13, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

DOB, welcome back to the realm of the functioning. Damn right I’m pumped. I’m leaving home/work in three hours to get my best girl, drop off the kiddies and hit the yard. You covering tonight? (Saw CR did the on deck).

Now, the Mets (noted transition): On a conference call this morning with a guy in New York City, and I told him I’m going to the game tonight. He says, “Man, you guys have the Mets’ number. You always have.”

I’m telling you, like I said the other day, need to start the second half by winning seven of 10 on the homestand. Very, very important to get off to a good start. The Mets go west after playing the Reds (way to start the second half ready to play, Bronson; back-to-back jacks to the first two hitters you see. Thanks for nothing, pretty boy).

Two and a half games out, two and a half months to go. Let’s get it on. The hunt for October STARTS RIGHT NOW!! And when October arrives, and I’m sitting in Vegas watching the Braves play in Game 1 of the NL Division Series with a cigar in one hand and a Scotch in the other, we’ll start thinking about winning those 11 games it takes to win it all.

But first, we gotta get there, denizens. Let’s get started. The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Then why did they try to deal him this past offseason?

ANSWER ME THAT!!!!

By Adam

July 13, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

The problem with trading a pitcher like Hudson is the Braves are trying to win now. Trading Hudson would hurt the staff in a major way. The Braves are having a terrible time finding someone pitch in the 5th spot and trading Hudson would make matters even worse. The Braves don’t have a lot of Major League ready pitchers in the minors (if they did we would have seen them by now). Even in the off season it would be next to impossible to find a good starter in free agency that would be comparable in salary to Hudson as well as ability. Trading Hudson doesn’t make sense at all during the season or after.

By Shaun

July 13, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

Lew,

I agree with you that the Braves will not and probably should not trade Hudson at this point.

But, a lot of players with “upside” actually do make something of themselves at the major league level.

As I’ve said many times on the blog, look at all the prospects that Baseball America has ever ranked in their top 100. I would guess over 80 percent of the hitting prospects make something of themselves.

I don’t think prospects are as big a question mark as you seem to think.

But, I do agree that it would be stupid to trade Hudson right now—because the Braves still desperately need him this year—for someone who isn’t going to help for at least another year or two or three. If the Braves fall out of it, that changes things.

By Train Wreck Bystander

July 13, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

I am sure there is a place in the Braves organization for Julio. But I am not convinced there is a place on the bench for him.

J. Franco: 50 AB, .200 AVG, 1 HR, 8 RBI, 13 K A. Jones: 322 AB, .211 AVG, 15 HR, 54 RBI, 87K

Prorate Franco’s batting numbers and he’s darned near close to Druw. Maybe it would work out?

I’d swap Julio for Woodward in a sec - just for the veteran presence and warm fuzzy PR.

By BEST LINE OF THE DAY

July 13, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

“Thanks for nothing, pretty boy.”

In reference to Arroyo’s two first inning batting practice pitches against the Mets last night.

By Wake Up

July 13, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

John Schuerholtz, make a deal already! What the hell is taking so long? Pick up the phone and make something happen!!

By 8th wonder of the world

July 13, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

bring back julio franco! we should have resigned him and given him the two year two million deal he wanted. instead we let the mutts sign him and win the east and then we give craig wilson a one year two million contract for a two months of lousy baseball. what is that?? bring him back! he’s a good clubhouse guy and can help salty at first.

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

ColdHardFact You ain’t messin’ with me, troll, you were making light of the work of one of the “institutions” of this blog. Now, jjs is well able to defend himself, but we do his “light” work for him. AAMOF, if Braveheart wasn’t busy re-inventing himself as Kojack…who loves ya baby? and polishing his new ‘do, he would have already been all over you like a chicken on a junebug. As for me? No, I don’t have heartburn ‘cause I take 80’s tennis rackets…I mean protonix.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 13, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

journalist is pleased that so many enjoyed, man in socks. uh, chipper makes it easy. and now, a new song is being prepared but may take some time to be completed. stay tuned.

and whither carroll rogers? left the blog when stinky returned never to be heard from again.

By Carolina Lady

July 13, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Julio should be a Braves bench coach.

By Lew

July 13, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

Efrim-Who did they get for him? Answer ME that. Dude, that’s a rhetorical question. If they weren’t able to get anyone worthwhile last year, what makes you think that if he has a disaterous second half THIS year, that we will be offered anyone else of value, “prospect”, or no? It truly makes me laugh my sizeable a$$ of to hear all the people on this blog of questionable intelligence, continually sit here and propose trading our unproductive players for someone who will excell. If they suck for us, why would anyone else want them, except for next to nothing? It defies logic and common sense. But enough of this. I have other things to do and I find nothing to be gained by continuing an argument with a brick wall that can’t see bright sunlight when it’s in his eyes, has the IQ of a turnip, the common sense of a tree stump and the personality of a pet rock. Later.

By ColdHardFact

July 13, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Lew and Efrim are like 2 old gonads banging against one another in the same swinging nutsack.

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

Adam Miller. Maybe the Indians bite. That guy can help contribute to this staff. Not saying that Mark Shapiro would trade him to the Braves, but he could help sooner than in three years. The guy could help next season.

By Shaun

July 13, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

I agree with you, then. If a team will give up a Chris B. Young type prospect and maybe a throw-in player or two for Hudson during the offseason, I’m all for it. I’d rather trade Hudson too soon than too early. I think it would be wise rather than wait until the end of his contract, when he may be worse and when no one is going to want give up anything for a mediocre, free-agent-to-be, older pitcher.

Adam, this is why I think trading Hudson after the season does make some sense. Not saying the Braves will do it or that it would be a bad decision to keep him—chances are he’s not going to be an awful pitcher before his contract runs out—but it would make sense to try to trade him.

There’s a decent chance that he’ll be mediocre or slightly worse by the end of his contract and no team is going to give up anything of value for that kind of pitcher at the end of his contract. Trading him this off-season may net the Braves some value.

By Wake Up

July 13, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Julio Franco should be the Braves new hitting coach.

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Efrim Oh, since it’s a blog you can call people fools? Well, thank you for that lesson in civility and respect. As for that “lame” thing, I’m going to let it go. You ain’t worth gettin’ my guns out for.

By ColdHardFact

July 13, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

Troll this, troll that, who cares paladick ? So is this ferocious kindergartner/songstress jjs going to transport himself through this abyss called cyberspace, squeeze himself out my monitor, and get me? Whoooooooo! Be afraid, be very afraid.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 13, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

oh, the humanity!!!!

I have other things to do and I find nothing to be gained by continuing an argument with a brick wall that can’t see bright sunlight when it’s in his eyes, has the IQ of a turnip, the common sense of a tree stump and the personality of a pet rock.

the humanity!!!

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Javier Vasquez man. 2005. Read my post earlier. He sucked for the D Backs. They got Chirs Young for him. It happens man.

By Shaun

July 13, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Lew,

I think you need to lay off the coffee after 12.

I think Efrim’s point is if the D-Backs could get a player like Chris B Young for Vazquez, the Braves could get a somewhat similarly decent player for Hudson.

I can actually see a team that is on the verge of contention and needs to add another quality starter and has money to play with trading a top prospect for Tim Hudson. I don’t think that’s too far-fetched.

I don’t know if the Braves would trade a decent starter like Hudson but I think it’s reasonable and logical to think it could happen.

By Lew

July 13, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Shaun-How many times in the past have You, Yourself stated that the experts are relatively accurate with their predictions of how good a postion playing “prospect” will be, but how they are considerably LESS accurate trying to prdeict future performance of a pitching prospect? Yes, every successful pitcher, like Young, were “prospect”, but how many failed to do anything once they were up? Their is just no way that you trade a pitcher, who in his worst season, won 13 games for a losing team, is on course to at least equal that performance, yet again, for a pitcher who MAYBE, MIGHT, JUST POSSIBLY win that many games sometime in the future. Isn’t there an old adage about birds, hands and bushes?

By ColdHardFact

July 13, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

If Julio Franco were the bench coach then he would be spending the majority of his time with Chipper DL Jones.

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

Paladin,

What guns? Blog bro, Blog.

By Lew

July 13, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

Cold Hard Fact-I guess that makes you the d!ck then, doesn’t it?

By Shaun

July 13, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

I doubt any team would trade any cheap pitching that could be halfway decent for Hudson. If the Braves do try to trade Hudson, I think it would have to be for a very good positional prospect and maybe one or two throw-in type players. But you never know.

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

THANKS SHAUN.

If Hudson finished with an ERA of 3.30 and 15 wins, then keep him. But if he stumbles a bit, I really think you can get value for him this offseason. A solid major league ready prospect.

By flange1

July 13, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Can’t wait for the second half! Is it game time yet?

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

See what I mean? jjs has spoken…and I certainly could not say it better!

By Salty

July 13, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Unless jjs has added I and capitals to his writing, he’s been hijacked…pretty sad.

By ColdHardFact

July 13, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

Quite disturbing fact indeed, grown men so enamored and amused with each other, borders on, well, I think you know what I’m thinking. Lew don’t address me without my permission bag nut.

By Shaun

July 13, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Lew,

I’m not saying trade Hudson for a pitcher. That’s probably not going to happen because no team is going to trade a young, cheap pitcher worth having.

Vazquez was traded for Chris B Young, the outfielder, who is going to be a darn good player.

By Braveheart

July 13, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

oh, the hell with Kojak, that just wasn’t working for me. need to find something more appropriate. Maybe something Wu-Tang related will have to be the new name.

Shaun, your points are well taken. The point is that I was in the process of breaking it down lineup spot by lineup spot. I think it is rather lazy to just look at what the whole lineup does as a whole or to look at what a whole rotation does as a whole. I would rather break it down lineup spot by lineup spot, position by position, starters vs. relievers, it gives a clearer picture of the way things are going down and where the holes are that can be improved and clear up misconceptions. I did cite the OPS stats. I understand the Runs + RBIs - Hrs are not something you particularly like and I fully understand they are dependent partially upon the performance of those around them. But, all in all, they are not bad barometers of how productive someone is. You are not going to typically see a guy with a .900 OPS over the course of 700 plate appearances in a season end up with only 70 runs, 75 RBIs. And yes, I understand the Ruben Sierra and Joe Carter stats. Actually, I had a much better plan for presenting the stats but really my head and heart ain’t in it today for whatever reason. But, your points are well taken. You’re right. That really was a lazy halfassed attempt at statistical analysis. I’m ashamed.

Paladin take the cannoli, leave the gun.

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Its a possibility for a team who thinks they are a pitcher away from being the best team in its division.

Lew,

Trades happen man. Stupid ones that are one sided. Some teams make them. Case in point the Vasquez trade two years ago as well as the Pierzenski trade around the same time. There is a larger value on younger pitchers, I agree. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get a team to give them up. Not to mention the Braves would shed 13 million dollars from their payroll.

By Salty

July 13, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

BTW…good afternoon, CL! Agree with your sentiments on Julio.

By Luther

July 13, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

*Efrim-

Then why did they try to deal him this past offseason?

ANSWER ME THAT!!!!*

They tried to trade Hudson becuase Tom Glavine was willing to come back to the Braves for similar money and they were trying to get rid of Hudson to free up that money. In Glavine, they figured that they would have a comparable #2 guy for two more years. In addition, at this time Hampton had been in rehab for almost two years and things were sounding very promising with him as the #3(not saying that was right, just the plan). So if this off season the Braves have a chance to pick up or trade for another #2 starter at a similar price, I think you might see Hudson moved, but not if they can’t get a top end starter for cheap. Won’t matter anyway because Huddy is gonna be nasty this half.

By JasonInMaine

July 13, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Hudson is going to come out in the 2nd half with guns a blazing…he pitches a complete game 4-hit shutout tonight!

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

Efrin What guns? Blog bro, Blog.

How can we, bro? You keep us too busy wiping the sh!T from yours off our monitor screens.

By Shaun

July 13, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

Lew,

One more thing, the odds are at his age Hudson isn’t going to suddenly get much better between now and the end of his contract. Yes, keeping him wouldn’t be a bad move, because I don’t think he’s going to get all that much worse, but I don’t think trying to trade him during the off-season while he still has some value would be a bad move either.

By Braveheart

July 13, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Salty, good catch as to the m.o. Amateurish theft and vandalism, amateurish.

Paladin & Efrim you both need to take the cannoli, and leave the guns.

By flange1

July 13, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

Luther,

I think you nailed the Hudson trade speculation for last winter and I agree that Hudson will be killer in the second half.

By ColdHardFact

July 13, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

How about Brainfart?

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

Luther and JasoninMaine,

I want nothing more than that. Would love it. Nothing would put me in a better mood than to see Hudson throw 8 innings with 4 hits allowed and no earnerd runs. Nothing.

By Braveheart

July 13, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

Ye Shall Not Respond To Any Mets Fan Except For Metropolitan Man. There’s Really Only Two Mets Fans Anyway: Metroman And The Smelly Troll Who Poses As Many Mets Fans. Hence, Why Ye Shall Only Respond To Metroman. Don’t Be A Troll. Do Not Feed The Trolls. Trolls Feed On Attention. If None Is Received, They Go Away! Don’t Be A Jackal Who Steals Other’s Identities, An Offense Warranting Immediate Banishment And Contempt From All.

By Lee

July 13, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

I hope Smoltz’s shoulder is not that serious. If it is one might as well stick a fork in the Braves.

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Paladin (Lew),

Less coffee. Or whatever it is that you are on.

By Paladin

July 13, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

You are right, as usual,Braveheart. I promised to be kinder and gentler and here I am back in character.

So, now I am going out and mow my weeds. And stomp some frogs and pretend…oops, there I go again.

But, someone should issue a call for SJA and jjs. Me thinks the jackal is amongst us.

By Jared

July 13, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Honk if you dislike Chip Caray and/or want Chip Caray fired and no longer doing Braves’ games on TBS.

By ColdHardFact

July 13, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

What’s a troll?

By Braveheart

July 13, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

This Franco has lost it business is easy to fix. You say his bat speed is slow? Simple. Take away Franco’s Tree Trunk he swings and replace it with a baseball bat. Perhaps one that is lighter than 15 pounds, like say, Woodward’s toothpick. That should speed up the swing a bit.

Great point 10Paul.

As for whomever compared Escobar to a young Julio Franco, I think that sounded pretty good.

By Lew

July 13, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Shaun-First of all, I don’t drink coffee, or anything with caffiene, nor do I use stimulants (other than intelligent conversation). Second of all-If we need pitching then why in the world do you trade a pitcher that consistently, even in his worst season, wins in double figures every year, his team goes 21-14 when he pitches, even in his worst year, for a non-pitcher?-especially when the club continually develops positional prospects all on their own, in a manner that all of MLB is jealous of? Seems to me that if your needs are more pitching, you certainly don’t trade that which you already have that is already successful. Add to this that any substantial replacement of this pitcher will, in all likelihood, cost you more than you already have to pay for the pitcher you just traded and you will still need the more pitching you needed to begin with. Yes, inequitable trades have been known to happen. JS, himself has pulled them off on a number of occaisions. I just fail to see why you get rid of what you need for what you already have plenty of. That makes no sense, whatsoever. The only reason you get rid of a successful cog is for a cog that is better-not one you really don’t need. You can add to this, that despite picking Hudson’s season apart and isolating parts of it, that his ERA is exactly at his career level, a full run less than the aforementioned worst season. He is well on the way to another season of double digit wins and whereas he has given up around 18-20 HR per season, has only given up 4 in more than half of the current year. Think about it.

By Braveheart

July 13, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Good one, cold hard one. BTW, how do you manage to keep it cold and hard at the same time?

By Lee

July 13, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

new blog up

By Tom

July 13, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOG….NEW BLOG….EVERYBODY…NEW BLOG…(clapping hands in rythmic fashion)

By ColdHardFact

July 13, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

I keep it in the freezer brainfart. Dumbass.

By The Jackal

July 13, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Who am I? Why am I here?

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Lew,

All great points, but IF he has a poor second half, JS will attempt to trade him this offseason. Poor second half being 4-7 with an ERA OF 4.50. Something along those lines. You want to keep him around if that is the second half he has. Not me. Do I think he will have that type of second half. No, I don’t. I just brought it up for conversation purposes.

By Lew

July 13, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Efrim-Whatever. What will happen is out of our hands. One thing though and you can take this to the bank. I am NOT Paladin. I am no one other than the name I head my posts with- Lew- That’s my real name and I do not post under any other name. Never will, either. You may not like what I have to say or agree with it, but I’m not ever going to claim to be someone else and try to escape anyone’s criticism of me and my comments, right or wrong.

By Efrim

July 13, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

You follow our farm system, what are your thoughts on Tommy Hanson. He seems to be the right handed power pitcher that Braves fans want. He commands his fastball in the low 90’s and commands it well. Good hits per innings pitched in the minors, high strikeout rate. I asked John Manuel from Baseball America about him on an ESPN.com chat a couple of days ago and he said he was very high on him and thought that he had top of the rotation type stuff. Thoughts?

By ColdHardFact

July 13, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

jjs is an institution? Or jjs is in an institution, mental institution?

By DAP

July 13, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

thanx braveheart. maybe escobar will play till hes almost 50 too…

and i like chip caray. i think he does a great job. actually i think all the braves announcers are wonderful, my least favorite being skip, cause he just sounds tired most of the time, and i think my favorite would be pete van wieren. the others fall in between.

By \\\\\\\\\\BERIGAN//////////

July 13, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Or anyone else…sorry if it has been mentioned before, but why did all but 2 NL teams get another day off after the break????

By Adam

July 13, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

Shuan,

The Braves don’t need decent positional prospects, they have lots of those both in the outfield and infield. What the Braves don’t have is starting pitching. Gil Meche and Vincente Padilla were so overpaid last year that Hudson’s contract is a now a bargain. The Braves won’t find a suitable replacement for the same price. It doesn’t make sense to trade Hudson the way the market is for position prospects when the Braves have prospects littered throughout there minor league system.

By ObiWanKobe

July 13, 2007 6:54 PM | Link to this

http://www.willitblend.com/videos.aspx?type=unsafe&video=iphone