Braves

By Jason

July 15, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

Nothing against Julio, but, “been there done that”….let’s move on and get serious about winning this division and advancing in the playoffs if we truly are “serious” about winning.

By Braves Fan 79

July 15, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

SIGN JULIO….DUMP WOODCRAP! Man evidently i hate this guy so much he was in my dreams last night. I dreamed i was at a bar or something and came across a woodward fan and man i went off…lol. Then i wake up today and whos playing first!?? of course….i guess maybe we can afford to play with 2 automatic outs back to back in todays lineup. But if we get behind 2 or 3 i hope cox goes for more offense sooner than later.

By Braves Fan 79

July 15, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Jason: dude your a idiot. so in the playoffs ud rather send woodcrap up to bat instead of a GREAT hitter like julio!??

By Brad in MT

July 15, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

If they do sign Julio, I hope that the Braves give the everyday 1B job to Salty and bring up Pena. I feel way more comfortable with Julio and Pena on the bench than Woodward or Thorman, they just don’t inspire confidence at all, and there isn’t any way that Pena and Julio could possibly do any worse.

By JasonInMaine

July 15, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

DOB,

What feeling did you get while sitting with the braintrust in regards to trades? I imagine they are still looking for a starter…

Would you trade Salty for Snell?

Regards,

Jason

By ElbravoX-- EbX

July 15, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

I support the blog and Julio. Can’t be any worse than status quo.

By Dylan w/o the dead

July 15, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

I was just like DOB on the Julio thing till I started thinking about it more and more after the rumor flied we might be interested it started making sense its not just his bat I believe we are after its his ability to work with the young latin players like escobar prado even andruw he was a positive influence in the clubhouse and does little things that dont necessarily show up in the stats.(normally I would hate saying things like that as I am a true believr in statistical analysis style of baseball but the truth is its a mix between the philosophies that is really the best way to win ballgames).

By Dr. Jay

July 15, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

Franco was a great hitter, Braves Fan. His numbers stink this year. I don’t like “Woody” either…there have to be other options…

Speaking of Nick Cave… I saw a movie last night called “The Proposition” with music AND screenplay by one Nick Cave. Is this the same guy? If so, what a creative dynamo. Good flick.

By Braves Fan 79

July 15, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

Brad: my thoughts exactly! I think dumping woodward is the next step in upgrading this roster. At least thorman can get walks and has power. Id rather see hudson at bat than woodward…shoot id rather see a lucky fan from isle 10 at bat than woodcrap.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Jason, they’re looking for a starter, but there’s just so very few out there of quality, who aren’t completely overpriced, either in salary or what the team wants in return in a trade, or both.

I still think they’ll get something done, but don’t hold your breath waiting for it to be a huge impact guy.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

Dr. Jay, indeed it is the same guy. Cave cranked out that screenplay, his first by the way, in a very short period of time. I forgot how brief, but something ridiculous like a couple of weeks, I think.

He’s an incredible talent, great writer and a helluva performer. He’s an Aussie, in case you didn’t know from the movie (it’s set in the Outback).

You should check out one of his concerts on DVD sometime. Get his “Murder Ballads” CD, with covers of a bunch of dark, dark stuff, some of it comical in its depravity.

By MEB

July 15, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

Don’t look now folks but Woodward is hitting the ball today and my goodness he just scored! Very fortunate turn of events for our Braves. Buddy Carlyle is pitching like a man possessed but he needs some runs.

I’m all for bringing back Julio in a coaching capacity. Slide it on over Chino cause Julio carries a big stick. Speaking of carrying a big stick Edgar is flat out raking the ball!

GO BRAVES!!!

By JasonInMaine

July 15, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB. Wow, what an AB by “Esco”!

By MBATL

July 15, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

For the life of me, I can’t understand why the Braves would pick up Julio. He hasn’t had a SLG % over .370 since ‘05; and his .200/.328/.260 line this year is just awful. I like the guy… let’s find a place for him in the organization if he’s ready to retire from playing; but he’s not an upgrade over Thorman or Woodward.

Thorman at least has some power; and Woodward can play pretty much any position.

I guess JS is hoping that Julio will magically find the fountain of youth; he’d know better than I would, but it seems to me that age has caught up with him.

A real impact hitter would be Dmitri Young. The Nats are asking for the world for him, but aren’t gonna get it. The Meathook would be a great transitional guy until next year, when Salty could take over 1B full time. He’s a switch hitter, and a very good pinch hitter.

If the Braves think they need a bat (and I’m not so sure they do), they should trade Thorman and a prospect for Young. But that means making a firm decision that Salty is the 1B of the future.

If we sign Julio, and release Woodward, we’ll end up recalling Orr, because we would still need another middle IF.

And (as he doubles down the line), I think Woodward has been hitting the ball hard for the last couple of months; just not much hitting luck.

By Ron Roberts

July 15, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

That’s sorta what frustrates me about this organization, though. Don’t get me wrong, Julio was great when he was here, but he epitomizes how this team views a deficiency and tries to upgrade it.

It worked a few times, with the likes of Jaret Wright, J.D. Drew, and John Burkett, but it’s also failed miserably with pickups like Chris Woodward, Roberto Hernandez, Shane Reynolds, Mike Redman, Raul Mondesi, etc.

It’s become a mindset, I think, to try and do a patch job on this team in the cheapest fashion possible, and it’s mind-numbing. What makes Julio attractive is that folks in the organization like him and he’s available for the MLB minimum? So, intangibles like ability to still swing a bat at MLB speed, hit for average and drive in runs when called upon don’t factor in if, say, the option might cost a bit?

Sorry, not buying it. We blew about $4 million Craig Wilson, Chris Woodwrd, etc., this season, and going the cheap option, to me, just isn’t what I think we should do. Again, I’d rather we stand pat then toss a few hundred thousand more away on a .200 hitting pinch-hitter utility infielder.

By Steve from OH

July 15, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

Man, Buddy is pitching great…every time I see him I’m more and more impressed. He’s our optimal #5 guy.

By Salty

July 15, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Carlyle…63 pitches through six innings…very nice. Get him some runs to work with so he can go nine…in under a hundred, heck, under 90 pitches. That would be a gift!

By Dr. Jay

July 15, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

I definitely will check out “Murder Ballads”…thanks. I just Wikipedia’d Nick Cave, so consider me completely blown away…what a renaissance man.

By Paladin

July 15, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

I was late getting here. I couldn’t bring myself to leave the other blog; I just sat there savoring DOB’s words to me. But, there is too much living-in-the-past on this blog already. So, on to the game…and life.

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

July 15, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

Don’t know if this was mentioned on the other thread, but saw this on http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/

*Braves Want Young Impact Pitcher For Salty Back on June 24th, Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette mentioned that the Pirates inquired as to the availability of catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia. At that point the required bounty was thought to be a frontline starting pitcher like Mark Buehrle.

Today, Kovacevic clarifies: the Braves want an impact-caliber young pitcher. That makes sense. The Pirates have a couple of those: Tom Gorzelanny and Ian Snell. They’d have to give one up to get Salty. Such a trade would be excellent for Atlanta but wouldn’t really seem to move the Pirates forward.

While shaky in terms of confirmation, we do have one report that indicates the Pirates could trade Snell this month. Snell is 25, healthy, and a long ways from free agency. He’s been the eighth best pitcher in the National League this year according to VORP. Better than Roy Oswalt, Brandon Webb, Carlos Zambrano, or Cole Hamels. It’s been quite a breakout season for Snell, and he’s improved his efficiency greatly. He averaged 5.81 innings per start in ‘06 and increased that all the way to 6.76 per start this year.*

By TBFKB

July 15, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

wow carlye looking good. AJ not exactly on a torrid streak but looks alot better.

By bravesfan

July 15, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

Carlyle only 63 pitches through 6 innings.

By Ron

July 15, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

I like Julio, BUT if we bring him back, it has to be somewhere as a extra bench coach or something!!! I dont really like Woodward that much either, BUT he can play all the infield positions and he can put down a damn good bunt!!! I cant believe Im excited that he can put down a good bunt either!!! Like it or not Woodward IS valuable to the Braves or else he would have already been released!!!

How about Buddy today, he is unbelievable!!!!!!! We just lack ONE more good starter, and a Lefty reliever that can actually get out lefties!!! We get those two done and we will be Damn good!!! I wish we could get a #3 type pitcher, BUT it would be fine with me if we end up getting a #4 Starter!!!

By N8

July 15, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Wake Up

From the other blog:

“Andruw just hit a pop-up. Bench him!!”

Yeah, because popping one pitch up in a game that the Braves are winning, is ANYWHERE CLOSE to going 35 for 204 (.171) over 54 games, with 7 HR and 27 RBI during the months of May and June COMBINED. Oh, BTW, we were 27-29 in May and June. Coincidence? More than likely NOT.

In 10 GAMES IN JULY (5 HR 11 RBI)he has already out homered and RBI’d his June numbers (27 games - 4 HR 10 RBI).

The thing that matters NOW, is that he appears to be coming around, and I’ll assume that we can agree on this. You know, since I’m not rooting for him to fail. :-)

By Ron Roberts

July 15, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Buddy Carlyle’s making our perceived rotation issues seem insignificant, doesn’t he? You could argue that he’s looked good in six of his nine overall starts, but then I’m throwing in the last start against the Marlins that he eventually had to leave after a lengthy rain delay.

Either way, he’s answered the bell two-thirds of his starts, and I’d think most contenders would be happy to get that from their fourth starters, wouldn’t they?

Now, about the enigmatic Kyle Davis…

By Zyklopz

July 15, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

I don’t know about Nick Cave. I think he’s a bad seed.

By JasonInMaine

July 15, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

I have a feeling the Braves are going to make a push for Arroyo…obviously I have no insight, but I think they will.

Regards,

Jason

By N8

July 15, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

Is Joe Simpson an idiot?

He’s ragging on the GREAT ANDRUW JONES and saying all things equal, he’d take Ichiro over AJ?

What game has this guy been watching? He must be a stupid, idiot? Oh wait. He played the game, and would KNOW, wouldn’t he?

How DARE he work for TBS and not take the homer approach and “convince” all the viewers at home how great AJ is/was. :-)

By Bob, Journalist

July 15, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

Nathan, you take yourself … and me to seriously. Methinks you’d try to find a defense for Charlie Manson.

I just posted most of this on the previous Blog … had started it about the same time we had a fire next door and had to evacuate … missed most of the first half of the game … looks like we played ABC for the first part of the 5th … XYZ for the last part.

I would never suggest that any of them were worth their salary, based on performance. Andruw’s being paid to fill the seats … he’s doing that … I just wish his offensive production was a reasonable fraction of his potential.

Send Chip the boiled peanut hater back up north!

By Greg in TN

July 15, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Afternoon Braves Nation…

Three quarters through the matinée at the lumberyard today. Carlyle is pitching well today and the Braves are starting the second half by playing well at home.

I too think the Braves could use another good arm in the rotation and also could use help at 1B down the stretch. I think that if JS can make a deal, I’m fine with that. I think realistically we’re not going to be getting an established impact starting pitcher from anyone without having to give up Escobar or Salty or both. I’m not of the opinion it’s in our best interests to deal either of those guys. Another GM may knock JS’s socks off with a deal, but I don’t think that’s happening.

I think bringing Franco in will immediately bring dividends from a standpoint of having another veteran influence in the clubhouse. And I don’t think 50 at-bats is enough to judge whether or not he’s lost bat speed that he’s not going to get back. I believe it’s well worth taking a shot and seeing.

By TBFKB

July 15, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Carlye looked good agasint teams with losing records or weak hitting teams…but again he is doing the job. Lets see how he does against the Mets and we will know.

By keylargo25

July 15, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

I really do wonder if the Braves third base coach Brian Snitker has a “take” sign. As in do not swing at the next pitch no matter what.

By TBFKB

July 15, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Look at Chippers glove work….atta boy

By Greg in TN

July 15, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

Outstanding glove work on the hot corner by Chipper.

By N8

July 15, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

Holy sh!t!!

Is that Chipper Jones or Scott Rolen over there at 3B?

Amazing play.

By A-ville Ranger

July 15, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Frenchy really looked like a db on that catch.As for Julio coming back,I haven’t seen enough of him lately to say.What a play by Chipper,he’s better defensively than he’s ever been.

By JasonInMaine

July 15, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

What a play by Chipper!!

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

N8, exactly my words to the person next to me when he made that play. Looked like Scott Rolen. Or at least like Vinny in his prime.

By Ron Roberts

July 15, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

TennPaul… you’re right; I think some other GM would have to blow us away with a starting pitching option with another year (or more) after this season on that pitcher’s contract for us to ship off Saltalamacchia and/or Escobar, and I don’t think it’s gonna happen. But I’m fine with us making no moves as opposed to doing something that doesn’t wow the Braves’ fans and pundits, alike, in sending Jarrod or Yunel away.

We’re four pitchers deep, rotation-wise, with a fairly decent bullpen and offensively, we have an abundance of options already. I’m fine with us keeping our young potential stars and seeing where we go with what we have, myself.

By Paladin

July 15, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

I promised a last word on Julio the player, not Julio the coach, as some have suggested. And so…

BC and JS ARE NOTgoing to replace TP in mid-stream. Julio’s value in other coaching roles—other than father confessor to the latinos—is of unknown value. Regardless, if he is to be a Braves coach he is going to have to go to Rickmond of Greenville and get some “seasoning”.

That’s my thoughts and I’m stickin’ wid ‘em.

By keylargo25

July 15, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

A lot of you Braves fans have been critical of the TBS broadcast and its broadcasters. I live in South Florida and have the Directv mlb package. Today I have been watching TBS and the Pirates FSN broadcast and let me tell you there is no comparison between the two. TBS wins hands down in every category. I wish that TBS still broadcast about 160 games a year but there is too much competition for the dollar for them to do that now.

By Josh C

July 15, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Went to the Indians/Royals game last night to see what should have been a great pitching matchup, Sabathia vs. Meche. Sabathia surprisingly got shelled but I came away impressed with Meche. His fastball hit 94 a few times, his ERA is 3.69 for the season and 4.59 career all in the AL. His contract is 5 years/$55 million which is a bargain for a 28-year-old, 200 inning sub- 4.00 guy these days. Plus, I’ve always liked the guy since he said he picked the number 55 to remind him of the contract he had to live up to. Mad respect here, wishing they all felt the same.

I wonder if our old friend would trade him to us. If so this would be Liberty’s chance to prove that they’ll increase payroll. How about Kelly Johnson and Jo Jo Reyes for him, with perhaps another prospect added in?

In a separate deal I’d guess Dotel could be had. Wonder if either team would be interested in a Mike Gonzalez-and-Joey Devine for Dotel deal? I’d say Dotel at his best is at least close to Gonzalez at his best.

Thoughts?

By Paladin

July 15, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

I butchered my typing in that last post. Marvis wouldn’t be proud of me. I would correct them but chrisklob might be watching. :-)

By N8

July 15, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

keylargo25

“I really do wonder if the Braves third base coach Brian Snitker has a “take” sign. As in do not swing at the next pitch no matter what.”

And WHO do you think gives Snitker the signs? My guess is that Diaz and Francoeur snuck into Bobby’s office and tore that page out of the play boodk.

I need to be shown over a longer stretch of time to have something proved to me that it’s “the rule” rather than the exception, when players tendancies are concerned.

Having said that, I’m not so sure that we need another starter if Buddy continues this. ESPECIALLY if Kyle Davies is even half of the pitcher he was in that last start against the Padres. Though some more depth would be nice in case of injury.

And if Andruw is truely “coming around”, our offense will be just fine. In fact it would be fine, even if he doesn’t come around as long as he’s NOT hitting cleanup and killing rally after rally. I hope those days are behind him.

IMO, a little more bullpen help is ALWAYS a nice addition to a team in July and August. Most noteably a LHRP to actually get lefties out. But who knows? Maybe Jo-Jo turns into that guy?

I stick with what I’ve been saying for weeks:

I’m OK with this roster WIN or LOSE as long as Salty or Escobar are NOT traded for a rental player. I would be OK with trading either of them for a young starter, like Snell, that would more than likely be pretty productive and cheap for a few seasons.

I think if Andruw, McCann, Carlyle and Davies play like they have the last 10 games or so, we’ll be fine. That doesn’t mean that the Mets won’t go out and get somebody or turn it around themselves and run away with it.

But I don’t think we really need anybody, as long as Buddy keeps this up.

By A-ville Ranger

July 15, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

TBFKB You say we’ll know about Carlyle after he faces a better lineup.I see your point but remember the four or five starter is more about getting you to the post season.The top three guys take the ball most playoff games.So whoever he beats to get the team a spot in the tourny is okey-dokey.I’m not saying he can’t leap past James and be a factor in Oct if he is the better pitcher,just that a win is a win this time of year.

By ElbravoX-- EbX

July 15, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

Looking good…

By Ron

July 15, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Great win today!!! Thats the way we gotta play!!! We did it all today!!!

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

July 15, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

The Braves aren’t going to trade Mike Gonzalez for Octavio Dotel.

By Braveheart

July 15, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

BRAVES WIN! MAGIC NUMBER IS 73!

48-33 IN THE STARTS OF JOHN, TIM, CHUCK, KYLE, & BUDDY!

They keep that up and we will win 92 games.

Now back to shutting myself in with my 15 cats. Here kitty, kitty……

By Greg in TN

July 15, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Okay gang, grab your brooms and sweep ‘em out.

Aside from the first inning homer, Carlyle was lights out today. Lots of heroes in the starting lineup today. Edgar went 4-5, Escobar 2-4, Diaz 2-4 and Woodward got in on the fun by going 2-4.

Great catch by Willie against the wall for the final out and of course, Hoss’ sterling play at third earlier was a delight to see.

Bring on the Red Stockings…

By Doubleback

July 15, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

I would pick any baseball broadcast over TBS.

Chip and Joe try way too hard to portray every Brave as a Hall of Famer. They start dishing out the praise and adoration in the first inning and don’t let up. Skip is getting harder to understand in his old age, but at least he tries to tell it like it is.

Also, the field level dugout microphone—sometimes turned up louder than than the announcers levels—is the most annoying thing I have ever heard on a televised sports event.

What exactly do they find so enthralling about Bobby Cox’s non-stop cheerleading?

By N8

July 15, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Josh

“I’d say Dotel at his best is at least close to Gonzalez at his best.”

We see eye to eye more often than not, but this is almost funny.

In 9 seasons, Dotel has had an ERA under 3.00 only 3 times. The most recent was in 2003.

In 5 seasons, Gonzo has a CAREER ERA of 2.29, and he’s left handed.

I won’t argue that with Gonzalez on the shelf, a guy like Dotel (if healthy) could help our club, or ANY club for that matter.

But seriously, he isn’t even close to Gonzalez. Never was. Never will be.

Ask yourself this: Would JS have traded LaRoche for Dotel?

Maybe in 2002.

By Paladin

July 15, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

I’m sure if Braveheart has cats, they are wildcats. :-)

By Josh C

July 15, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

GHF, I’m sure you’re right, the main difference being age. Interestingly, Gonzalez has a career WHIP/BAA of 1.24/.210 while Dotel’s is 1.32/.218. We have one thing KC doesn’t have- aging stars to win for. Who knows where we’ll be in 2009 when Gonzalez gets back? And don’t tell me he’ll come in and dominate down the stretch next year…

By Michael Procton

July 15, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Umm… Age: Mike Gonzalez-29 Joey Devine-24 Octavio Dotel-34! MLB IP since 2005 (Please note that Devine was an NC State player almost through the All-Star Break of that year): Devine+Gonzalez: 134.1 Dotel: 44.1 (yes, that’s an average of less than 15 IP over the last THREE YEARS! (Or less than even Mike Gonzalez pitched THIS year before he got hurt) That’s as dumb a trade as I’ve seen lately.

By Paladin

July 15, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Oh, one more thing in the way of “social commentary”: It is far better to be a shut-in than a shut-out. Ever think of that?

By Skydawg

July 15, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

I’ve been saying this for a long time but it will never happen. Move Chipper to first, it will be a slight adjustment due to the opposite side of the diamond and how different the ball comes off the bat. But its similar in many regards as the hot corner. Put Escobar in everyday at 3rd base. Release Thorman. Release Woodward. Bring Prado up as your utility man and sign Julio as a bench player and to spare Chipper some rest at first. That my friends is best case scenario without letting go of some valuable assets in a trade.

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

July 15, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Great win!!! I do wonder though, will a braves starter ever get a complete game this year? Has a season ever passed in which we didn’t have at least one complete game???

By Bob, Journalist

July 15, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

Billy, Buddy will be alright … he just needs to be the long relief … every fifth day … 2nd inning on.

Good win!

By Josh C

July 15, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Actually, forget Dotel.

DOB

Do you think there’s any chance that Gonzalez could be a chip to bring in a starter? If he were healthy he’d have Salty-type value, I’d guess. I wonder if he might be the pot-sweetener to get a deal done sans Salty or Yunel.

By John B.

July 15, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

Josh C: Not to put a damper on your ideas, but I don’t think any GM in their right mind would trade for a guy who is out for the year. I don’t even think you can trade people on the DL to begin with.

By Braveheart

July 15, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Paladin If you are shutout, do you become a shut in, or do you become shutout if you are a shut in? When you help me figure that out, we’ll get to work on the chicken and the egg.

By rupert

July 15, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

julio couldn’t hurt, but 2 things:

1) He should play against lefties and let salty play vs. righties, spelling Mac occasionally, DON”T SIGN JULIO AND TAKE ATBATS AWAY FROM SALTY!! DAMNIT!! julio is not a gold glover over there

2) cox is loyal, even to guys like thorman and woodward who havent really been to war with him, a guy like julio will get cox’s ultimate loyalty which could really hurt the team if his bat as slowed

that being said, definitely worth the risk, as long as you don’t take atbats away from budding star salty

By N8

July 15, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

John B.

I realize it’s different than trading Gonzalez for another stud pitcher. But we did trade Tony Pena Jr. to the Royals for a kid that’s out for the year, who allegedly has a lot of promise.

Can’t recall his name. But I’m pretty sure he’s not gonna pitch this year.

But you’re right about Gonzo, somebody MIGHT take a flyer on him for a fringe player. But there isn’t a GM out there that’s gonna give up on some big talent for the POSSIBLILTY of having a healthy Mike Gonzalez in 2009.

By Will

July 15, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

Doubleback, I totally agree with you, i used to love watching the Braves on TBS, but it is getting harder and harder. I hate Chip Caray, i was so mad when they hired him a couple years ago. I think he is awful. The dugout microphone is brutal too, at least we dont have to hear him yelling “come on Gilly” to marcus Giles anymore. The “take ball four” one is great too!! They need to totally do away with that microphone by the dugout.

By ernesto

July 15, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Great win. Now if Buddy can show he can do that against a line up that’s not hte Pirates or the slumping Pads then I’ll get really excited. But great win all the same.

On the Julio front - I’ll just say Here! Here! to JJS’s post from earlier today - Julio’s a great guy. A great 48 year old guy who’s bat can no longer hit major league heat.

Think about all the “projects” we’ve taken on this year Wilson - washout, Redman - washout, Woodward - okay day today, but washout, Latter day Jordan -washout, Mondesi -washout. Etc.

I think we do better to bring up young promising talent (Escobar, and okay Willie isn’t young but he was still in the system) than to give retreads YET another shot at proving their recent career downturns are misleading.

I love Julio. Bring him on as a coach if you want, but our team would be worse with him than without him. IMO.

To add to my addition by subtraction thesis I think we’re actually a better team without Orr. It’s bringing better guys’ up to the plate in pinch hit circumstances b/c BC isnt’ tyring to get Petey some cuts.

PLEASE DON’T SIGN JULIO.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Josh, when’s the last time you heard of a team trading legit talent in exchange for a pitcher who hasn’t even picked up a baseball yet in his recovery from Tommy John surgery? A pitcher whose elbow prevented him from pitching the last month of the 2006 season, then forced him to miss most of this season.

That doesn’t happen, Josh. Teams don’t give up legit talent in exchange for pitchers recovering from major elbow surgery before they’ve even seen any reason to feel confident said pitcher is going to make it back.

And you who believe Joey Devine is going to draw anything significant on the trade market need to wake up. Until he’s accomplished something in the majors, and until he’s trusted by his own team enough to pitch in tight situations, other teams aren’t going to offer anything of value for him.

By Chuck James is solid!! (Formerly Steve-O)

July 15, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

Chuck James was bad last nite. Again….

By John B.

July 15, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

N8: Name was Erik Cordier, and ya, you were right. He just had Tommy John surgery in December. Kid has the stuff for middle-of-the-rotation stuff, maybe a setup man.

By Tonight on TBS

July 15, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

Batatouille (2007)

Remy (voice of Chip Caray) is a batboy, constantly risking mistreatment at the hands of spoiled superstars because of his love of baseball as well as a desire to one-day become a manager. But opportunity knocks when the crusty old manager, Bobby, (voice of Wilford Brimley), lacking a grasp of basic baseball strategy, discovers the genius of Remy and secretly lets him run the team. It’s up to the two of them to avoid the insane general manager (voice of Darth Vader), get the team to play slightly better than .500 ball, get into the playoffs, and POSSIBLY WIN THE WORLD SERIES! Again, finally. (Cartoon).

By Will

July 15, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

Wow! I could not have said it any better on the outrageous trade ideas posted on here. That is laughable that they could get anyone for a guy out for the season. Joey Devine with his two grand slams he gave up, plus the game winner in the NLDS is gonna have a hard time amounting to anything. Who in the world would want a guy like that???

By Paladin

July 15, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Braveheart My “theory” on the chicken and the egg is that there had to be a conspiracy. Perhaps the other man on the grassy knoll. If we could only get some of his DNA.

By chrisklob

July 15, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

Unfortunately I missed the game today. But it wasn’t wasted time as I took my son fishing.

Paladin, you’ve really got to do something about your spelling. They have a new program out there called “Spell Check”. Ever heard of it? You should look into it. :-)

Actually, the only misspelling that I ever have a problem with I discussed last night. Some of the folks here seem to want to call me “chriskolb”. That is offensive to me as I don’t want anyone to think that I might actually be, or may be related to a certain Kolb who used to break our hearts on a very regular basis.

By David-ATL14

July 15, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Good Job DOB, of putting this silly Devine adulation in its proper perspective.

By Josh C

July 15, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

I didn’t think anyone would give up top-level talent for Gonzo. I wondered if Gonzo packaged with some other prospects might help us get a deal done without trading Salty or Escobar. Maybe Brandon Jones, Reyes or Harrison, and Gonzalez could get a decent no. 3-4 pitcher for example.

By Jared

July 15, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

Saltalamacchia for Ian Snell is an absolute steal for the Braves. Dave Littlefield wouldn’t do that, he just wouldn’t. It’s not quite Horacio Ramirez for Rafael Soriano, but it’s pretty darn close.

By chrisklob

July 15, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

DOB, the Braves traded Luis Atilano to Washington last year for Daryle Ward. Atilano had just had TJ surgery and just the last week or so made his first appearance of the 07 season.

I meant to thank you earlier for the new blog. You know, old blogs start to smell like yesterday’s fish after a couple of days.

By Salty

July 15, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

Chrisklob Fishing…offshore, or the lakes?

By JasonInMaine

July 15, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

For what it is worth, there is an article on MLB.com about the Braves using Devine as a trade chip…

By Paladin

July 15, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

chrisKLOB You have to be able to spell “spell check” before that can help you. Hope you and your son caught something. NO…that’s not what I meant! Oh hell, you know… :-)

By Will

July 15, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

No team will give up any talent whatsoever for Mike Gonzalez, they guy is out for a long time and its not good when somebody is already having serious arm trouble at a young age. Im sorry, but that is just stupid to say he could be involved in any trade. Braves will not get any significant player without involving at least one of the top prospects, that is why i am continuing to hope they stay with what they have now becuase nobody out there right now it worth giving up great prospects for.

By Braveheart

July 15, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Paladin what happens when the chicken gets egg on his face? Does he cross the road?

By chrisklob

July 15, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

Salty, we just went to a lake near our house to fish for bass. I don’t have a boat so I don’t get to do much inshore or offshore fishing.

By Paladin

July 15, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Now they are sayin’ we smell like old fish. Can’t catch a break, can we?

By KC

July 15, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

DOB: “KC, I think your proposed move (release Woodward and sign Julio Franco) would fall under the category of throwing good money after bad. Makes little if any sense to do that, much as I like Julio….”

Well, I was thinking that Woodward would have to be the guy to go in order to make room for Julio if we wanted to sign him. However, I just noticed that we’re carrying 13 pitchers at the moment, so we could send one of our relievers back down instead.

But if it did come down to Julio vs. Woodward… unless you see Woodward as a part of your bench for the next 2 or 3 years… I’ll take Julio.

The original purpose of signing Woodward was to use him as a utility man. But Escobar is now our top utility infielder. When you think about it… we’ve got (without Woodward) 3 guys who can play 2B: Johnson, Escobar, and Harris. And we’ve got at least 2 guys that can play shortstop or 3B. So what do we need Woodward for? His bat? Despite a couple of nice at-bats today… I think not.

Right now, Woodward’s role is that of pinch hitter and a 3rd option at 1B. Wouldn’t Franco be a better fit for that role?

I know the word is that Franco’s bat has slowed. But while it seems like an absurdly simple solution (one that’s already been suggested in this blog multiple times)… the guy does swing the heaviest bat in the game…

And besides, so far this season, Franco has fared much better as a pinch hitter than has Woodward.

By TheSouthernJackAss

July 15, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

Fee-fi-fo-fum!…I smell the blood of a jackal, that malodorous scum!…

Be he alive, or be he dead…

I’ll grind his bones to make my bread…

Knee-eye-toe-thumb!…

TheJackAss has been busy gathering much needed intelligence(must one possess intelligence to gather intelligence, or must one gather intelligence to possess intelligence?) as to the shut-ins, trolls, & jackals…kickin’ down doors and takin’ names…and once again TheJackAss has jumped to many solid conclusions…

TheJackAss has discovered umpteen motley and sundry tracks, along with gamey scat piles, while on his expedition today, which are haphazardly spread all around the blog…but most interestingly, and astounding, was the detection of a large number of familiar, unmistakable, and oft seen, crooked-toed, gnarled tracks…tracks believed to be that of the dreaded odoriferous a$sholeous…yes, that creature familiar to every poster of substance, a beast thought to be long dead, that jackal that I shall henceforward refer to as “ol’ Slewfoot!”…a mangey, foul-smelling, noisome, icky creature that has attempted to run rough-shod over nearly everyone in these parts…

Be warned, lock your doors, close your blinds, bring in the women, children, and all small domesticated pets…this knuckle-dragger has been gravely injured and debased during past encounters with more cunning and witty bloggers than that of itself, it is also running scared, ultimately making this vile fiend very daring, obnoxious, and desperate for attention…But fear not! TheJackAss has a magnificent secret weapon at his immediate disposal, an entanglement of the likes never before experienced by mortal man, or lowly varmint…soon, it too shall be sleeping with the fishes…

By chrisklob

July 15, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

Paladin, we caught a couple of decent sized bass but considering that my son is ten, that is all we caught!

Perhaps you should consider a voice recognition program to help you with your spelling issues. :-)

By Paladin

July 15, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

BH: * what happens when the chicken gets egg on his face? Does he cross the road?*

No, he licks his lips. And you know how tough those chicken lips are.

By George "Boston Brave". Spitz

July 15, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

Instead of signing John Franco great person that he is, The Braves should bring up Brayan Pena who is, after a slow start, batting 328 at Richmond. Pena is a switch hitter, who plays first base, third base and catcher. Among the other benefits of having Pena is when Salty is playing first or has already pinch-hit, Bobby Cox can pinch run for Brian McCann in late innings.

By KC

July 15, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Buddy Carlyle: Since his first start with the Braves, he’s gone 4-1 with a 3.42 ERA (over 8 starts).

Nice.

By chrisklob

July 15, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Paladin, you said “Braveheart Now they are sayin’ we smell like old fish. Can’t catch a break, can we?”

LOL!

By journalist jimmy smith

July 15, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

sja, don’t rough up the shut-in! repeat. do not rough up that shut-in! story checks. not our man. hope sja gets this message before arriving for the “visit”.

and now, if the team is serious about signing julio … perhaps the team would consider a good contact hitter baby seal instead. no real power but able to put the ball in play. and makes so much dust going to first base that no one ever throws out baby seal. and did grinch attend today’s game? see any base-running seals? (good possibility) and now, laroche leaves town with no trophy. sad. once laroche was a brave. now, laroche is merely a pirate. no booty, though. no hidden treasure. should make laroche walk the plank for that play yesterday. shiver journalist’s timbers. blow the man down. can say that? and imagine the pirate stories laroche could tell chipper! imagine the two with a treasure map! “uh, dig right here, roachy.”
“why do i have to dig? you dig.” “sorry, sore thumbs.”

By chrisklob

July 15, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

George, John Franco is retired already. Julio Franco is the Franco being discussed.

By Paladin

July 15, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

chrisKLOB My problem, for today anyway, was not spelling; it was typos. Sometimes I type as if I’m wearing boxing gloves.

Now, I’m getting out of here. Sounds as if SJA is going to kill all of the 1st-borns. I’m going to warn mine. I’d hide that 10 yr old, if I were you.

By TheSouthernJackAss

July 15, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

Julio should try a lighter bat—and if Chipper wasn’t afraid to bend at the waist, he could have made many more plays like that during his career…

By Coach ( Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 15, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

Julio Franco ? No , absolutely not the answer. The old man cannot get around on a mid-nineties fastball and picking up the Mets discarded bench player smacks of desperation. The better idea is to go looking for a veteran right handed bat who can play first base (Kevin Millar , Jeff Conine ). Then again the Rangers are shopping Sammy Sosa , he hasn’t played LF in years but can play the outfield. He is having a solid season(14 HR - 63 RBI - .244 AVG) , he is dirt cheap (500,000) and it certainly wouldn’t hurt the offense. JS should pick up the phone and at least ask the Rangers what they would want in trade. Diaz could play first base if Sammy were in LF. By the way , who is the guy impersonating Buddy Carlyle ? He looks great ! if Smoltz comes back healthy and Buddy keeps pitching like this I MIGHT have to reevaluate this team’s starting pitching. The Mets won again 5-2 , they are not going to fold. Folks , the Mets are not going to go away and neither are the Phillies.

By TennesseePaul

July 15, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts: You must have read my mind or something… perhaps you were responding to Berigan?
I’d hate to trade either of those two young guys. They make up the dream bench I’ve been wanting all season. I love looking at the line up and seeing .280 or better all the way through it (minus AJ, but then he’s AJ, at any moment he’s capable of breaking out and going nuts). It’s a strong team right now. Buddy is fantastic. Chuck James is coming around. Kyle, fine for a fifth starter, and he does have some potential. This is going to be a big second half for a lot of guys. Some need it badly, others I hope continue what they’ve done so far. I wouldn’t be disappointed with this team going to the post season. I think, by that time, this team would be such a close knit team they’d be able to hold their own against anyone.
Franco would be a good addition. After 67 years of playing in the MLB he has some knowledge and insight into the game which could only benefit our young guys.
Looking for help at first base? Perhaps Saltalamacchia is the answer. Put him there with Franco to guide him and we might just have all we need. Call up Pena to be a back up guy and figure out something for Thor.
Poor Thor. Love the guys name. Love his hustle. But he’s struggling real bad. I hope he comes out of it and starts hitting better.

Great game today. Buddy Carlyle. What can you say? Great outing. I’m going to go ahead and put a knotch in Roger’s column for successful reclamation. Not sure how much was Roger and how much was Buddy growing up, but I never knew those details for Leo either and I gave him the knotches. So there you go Roger. Keep up the good work.

GO BRAVES

By Caleb

July 15, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

DOB, what do you think about Guster? Ever listen to them?

By KC

July 15, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

I know we’re all focused in on the Mets, but it’s at least worth mentioning that we’re 1/2 game out of the Wild Card (2nd place), and since the DBacks and Padres are wrapping up a series today, we’ll pick up a 1/2 game on one or the other by the end of the day.

I suppose I’m still picking Atlanta to win the East as well (though I wasn’t so sure a few weeks ago). That is PROVIDED Smoltz remains healthy. If Smoltzy misses any significant time, we’re probably screwed. But if he stays reasonably healthy…

We have as good a 1-2 punch as there is in the league, and Chuck James - while he’s not turning in as many innings as the Braves would like - has been very solid overall. A 3.73 ERA these days is very good for a starter.

Buddy Carlyle has really helped solidify the back of that rotation. Let’s hope he can keep it up. If he can remain solid and be an innings eater… it kind of compensates for James’ lack of efficiency, and helps save the bullpen.

That just leaves Kyle Davies. Who the hell knows what we’ll get from him from one day to the next. Let’s hope he can develop some consistency. But if James and Carlyle keep up the good work… we can work around Davies.

And if JS some how comes up with another quality starter… then I’ll bet real money the Braves will play October baseball.

By FSU braves fan

July 15, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

would anyone agree with me that thus far through Buddy’s 10 or so starts he has been more effective than our 3 or our 4th? I love chucky james cuz hes fearless and pitches like its his last game (atleast thats what i think when i watch him) but has he really been anymore effective than Buddy?….in my opinion Kyle is clinging to that number 5 spot by his teeth, with his potential he really needs to show something and not just for 3 or 4 innings but for 3 or 4 games….comments?

By JawjaHillbilly

July 15, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

Players usually prove they’re too old to play at some point. Julio’s proved it to the Mets; let’s hope he doesn’t prove it to the Braves during a stretch run…

By KC

July 15, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

George “Boston Brave”. Spitz: George, I can’t argue with you on Bryan Pena. I agree, he might be a better option than either Woodward or Franco.

I wasn’t aware (or had forgotten) than Pena could play 1B and 3B. If that’s true, then I really wonder why Woodward hasn’t already been shipped out to make room to bring Pena back up.

It’s always nice to have 3 catchers when your 3rd catcher is (at least) a decent bat off the bench and can play multiple positions.

In recent years, every time the Braves have let a marginal veteran go in favor of a younger player with more upside… it’s worked out well. I’ll go with an unproven player with potential over a player who’s proven marginal at best, every time.

By KC

July 15, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

Coach: “Julio Franco ? No , absolutely not the answer.”

I agree. He’s not “the answer”. But he’s a slightly better option for the last spot on the bench than Chris Woodward.

But George might be right… Bryan Pena may be a better option than either of those 2 guys.

Sure would be nice to get Wes Helms for the bench, but that ain’t gonna happen.

By TheSouthernJackAss

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

A close call!—TheJackAss has received jjs’s message just in time…much like a flame-throwing lefty about to release his rocket-like projectile toward the plate, as a hapless ump calls for time…

TheJackAss was toying with this individual, much like a Tomcat playing with a cornered mouse…but TheJackAss had grown tired of fun and games, and hunger had taken precedence over leisure…good thing jjs was keeping tabs, for a tragic mistake was averted…props for jjs…but now TheJackAss has transitioned from gnawing at the bit in anticipation of a clean kill to that of a state of intense delirium, paranoia, & angst…TheJackAss must excuse himself for a while, wander off into TheTwiLight Zone, & attempt to calm himself…a close call indeed!…

By Hunk Erdown

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

We will get Julio and he will do practically nothing until very late in the year, when he will pinch hit and deliver the RBI against the Mets that clinches the Division pennant.

By KC

July 15, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

FSU braves fan: Yeah, as I pointed out a moment ago, Carlyle has gone 4-1 with a 3.42 over his last 8 starts (since his first start with the Braves).

However, over that same stretch, James has posted a 3.33 ERA. Carlyle has delivered more innings per start, but hasn’t blown James away in that category. Carlyle has averaged about 6.15 innings per start since his first start here, while Chuck has averaged 5.7 innings over that stretch.

Also, the sample size on which to judge Carlyle is considerably smaller than what we have to go on for James. So I’m certainly not ready to rank Carlyle ahead of James in this rotation.

BUT… I am excited by what we’ve seen from Carlyle, and I think he’ll remain a solid 4 or 5 guy for us. He was a nice find for sure.

By D-Cider

July 15, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

Whether the Braves pick up Franco or not, will not make much of a difference the rest of the season. Julio is batting an impressive .200 this season, so I guess he would fit right in with the other first basemen the braves have trotted out this year. 31 at bats is pretty limited to evaluate Salty, but I guess he is smokin’ as a catcher. But, I am worried if Salty switches to first next season, he will forever be platooned by Cox.

By Chief

July 15, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

Franco is a Brave … plain and simple. This means I don’t care what he batted in NY, I know what he can do in Atlanta where he loves the town and the fans.

Bring’em in …..

By Jeff321

July 15, 2007 6:09 PM | Link to this

Scott Thorman needs to be sent back to the Carolina league. He has no idea how to hit. And his stats can be attributed to sheer luck! I mean, swinging like he does, he’s bound to hit something sooner or later. Julio is better than Chris Woodward and Pete Orr put together. However, I’d rather bring another minor leaguer up…

By badhatharry

July 15, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

David, I remember you told us not to get to carried away when the Braves called up Willie Harris despite his gaudy minor league numbers. What about now. Has there been a bigger surprise in Baseball this year?

By Josh C

July 15, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

Well one career minor leaguer named Buddy has done well. Perhaps 30-year-old Buddy Hernandez should get his shot?

By Adirondackdave

July 15, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

Hmmm… Don’t like this Gonzalez trade chatter. He’ll be a mighty good looking guy for the pen about this time next year.

Salty for Snell. Got to think both sides are at least thinking about it, probably trying to get a secondary player.

By JJMB

July 15, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this

Maybe they can sign Dale Murphy and Phil Niekro along with Franco. Maybe The Hammer with sign on for home games only (no traveling for him).

By Jared

July 15, 2007 7:21 PM | Link to this

The Surest Way the Braves Make the Playoffs:

Trade Saltalamacchia and Lillibridge for Ian Snell if possible. Move Chipper Jones to first base, play Escobar at third base, give second base back to Kelly Johnson everyday, bring up Brayan Pena and dump the obvious dead-weight to make room for Smoltz, Snell and Pena.

The sticking points are it might be too bold for Schuerholz and Cox, the Braves are winning right now as is and I doubt they’d move Chipper Jones to a new position midway through the season.

By Bob, Journalist

July 15, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this

Coach, is “Sammy Sosa, he hasn’t played LF in years but can play the outfield” a joke?

I don’t know about statement but I think Sammy is! Why would we want such a piece of work?

Well I suppose he could have an influence on the younger players and be a role model for our kids … I don’t know, but baseball’s been very good to him and he appreciates it … he’s sincere about that; a been there, done that, stand up kind of guy, corked bat an all!

$500,000 is dirt cheap? I realize that some dirt’s worth more than others but that’s still a lot of dirt to me. Do you have $500,000 to spare? Back before the turn of the century when I was working, that was close to 3 years worth of high priced top soil in Tennessee.

Besides, if we got Sammy, we’d have to stop making fun of Hoss.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

Badhatharry, Harris has been a huge and very pleasant surprise for the Braves. And you wouldn’t believe how many folks in Chicago and Boston have asked me in radio interviews, and just beat writers in those towns, what the hell happened to Harris, because he stunk so bad for the Red Sox and was mostly mediocre for the Sox.

I tell them I don’t know, but he’s playing very well for the Braves and has been a key contributor….

Guys, are you really that unaware of Gonzalez’s status, of the questions that will surround his health until he comes back and proves he can be what he once was?

Teams DO NOT trade legit, quality talent in exchange for guys whose arms are in a sling, not when they’ve had histories of elbow problems now for consecutive seasons, and it’s slender, relatively undersized guy (Gonzalez) with a pretty violent delivery.

Not quite getting the logic some here have whipped up regarding Gonzalez trade talk. There has been no Gonzalez trade talk. When you see a rumor regarding a team pursuing him, and you see it from a legit source, let me know.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

By the way, anyone going to give McDowell credit for Buddy Carlyle’s performance this season? Just wondering, since Leo got all the credit for all previous reclamation projects.

Buddy had one win and a 7-plus ERA in 21 games (seven starts) in the majors before this season, and was 29 and had bounced around North American and Japan for a decade. Now he’s a key member of the rotation….

Think about it, Carlyle and Willie Harris were non-roster invitees to spring training. For that matter, so were Salty and Escobar, but theirs are different situations, obviously….

Why is Bobby keeping 13 pitchers now? I have no idea. Only thing I can figure is he’s doing it just in case Smoltz has any problems Wednesday. But it sure seems odd to have an extra pitcher after the break, when all are rested, theoretically.

Or maybe he’s keeping 13 so he won’t actually have to use Devine (that’s said in jest, but he obviously doesn’t have much faith in Joey. I think the Braves could have only nine pitchers and Joey might still have trouble getting an inning or two, at this point.)…

Caleb, good band, Guster. Got a couple of their albums, but not the last one with that great song “One Man Wrecking Machine” on it.

By Ron Roberts

July 15, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

With all this discussion about Chris Woodward’s usefulness/uselessness, it’s worth noting that when Chris Woodward isn’t merely pinch-hitting in a game, he’s batting .260 (19 for 73) this season. For a utility infielder getting spot starts, I think that’s fairly respectable, don’t you?

The case you could make for Julio Franco is that he’s hitting .269 (7 for 26) as a pinch-hitter this season, but hits miserably when in the starting lineup (.125 or 3 for 24). Woodward, meanwhile, is hitting **.143 (4 for 28) as a pinch-hitter.

So if the Braves were eyeing the superior utility infield starter, it’s Chris Woodward, thus far this season. If you wanted a more dependable pinch-hitter, it’s Julio Franco.

With Yunel Escobar, Willie Harris and Jarrod Saltalamacchia in tow, it would seem that the pinch-hitting role would be our greater need, then, eh?

I’d still prefer us not to pick up Julio Franco, though; I just don’t think we have a need he fills, frankly.

Incidentally, Saltalamacchia’s coming back down to earth, as should have been expected. He’s hitting .258 for the month of July, with nary a long one and only 1 RBI, so far.

What is it about playing first base in the ATL? He’s only hitting .226 when he plays at 1B, too. Sheesh. Something about that position for us, this year.

By Efrim

July 15, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

DOB

By the comments you’re making regarding Gonzo, I’m guessing you don’t think he will be apart of this bullpen until 2009. If that is what you are saying, I agree. No way this guy comes back and is what he was until 2009. Braves are going to need another 8th inning guy next year when Soriano moves to the closer’s role.

By Salty

July 15, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

Let me preface by saying I understand pitching is important; however, there is a dearth out there.

My take: go for bats…leave no holes on the bench, to the extent fiscally possible. Time was, a position player for a pitcher was taboo…the pitcher always came with at least a (reasonably) legit prospect. Now the proposals are 2:1 the other way…that just doesn’t wash.

Color me blind (just not stupid, please!), but aside from the trade that blows one away, I can’t see giving Salty (no personal attachment whatsoever, honest!) up for a pitcher. He is two players in one! (Full disclosure: the Snell idea is intriguing, but I’ll fight through it!).

This is really lengthy for me, so I’ll go ‘polish my shield in readiness for battle’; stones are bound to come my way!

By Efrim

July 15, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

DOB

One more thing. Does Bobby have something against Devine? I know he is young, but the kid never gets any innings. He has had a pretty good season in Double-A. 55 K’s in 35 innings. Not sure why he isn’t apart of this bullpen.

Also, do you think Littlefield would trade Snell for Salty?? I feel like the man would get killed in the Pitt media for trading such a great young pitcher. That team is going to look a lot different next season. I guarentee they deal Jason Bay this offseason.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

Efrim, I don’t know one way or the other. He could be back by midseason, should be according to the TJ recovery of a lot of guys his age. But teams aren’t going to trade for a guy like that not knowing for sure.

Might be back next year and not back fully effective until end of season. Who knows? Might be, as you suggested 2009, but I know the Braves are hoping that’s not the case.

By Mets Rule. You drool

July 15, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

Franco sucks! It just shows you Omar’s genius. He gets rid of some dead wood and brings up Lastings and BOOM! Milledge is the difference 2 games in a row. Thats what its like having a solid orginazation- youve got to know when to make moves and Omar is the master.

So add Julio to the list of guys who couldnt make the Amazin’s roster, Woodward, Yates et. cetra, hey give Mookie a call, he’s still got wheels. Hahahahahahaha!!!!!

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this

Chrisklob, awful big difference between Nats dumping payroll and trading a free-agent-to-be pinch-hitter (Ward) to the Braves with a month left in the season for a young prospect coming off TJ surgery, compared to the Braves traded a 28-year-old well-paid reliever who won’t be ready until at least the middle of next season for … well, what? For a Daryle Ward?

The Nats were it total strip-it-down and rebuild mode two years before their new ballpark. The young guy they got, they believe will be an impact guy in a few years. They weren’t going to re-sign Ward under any circumstances.

It’s completedly different and uncomparable scenarios, Ward and Gonzalez. Nothing to do with one another in any way.

By Ron Roberts

July 15, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Mets Rule….… you’ve spent tens of MILLIONS more on your roster, and a whole 1.5 games ahead of us. Brilliant organization, pal. Brilliant. Oh, and we’re also 6-3 against you this season.

By Josh C

July 15, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

DOB I’ll take the blame for the Gonzo bit. Just asking if someone might view him equal to a “prospect” for trade purposes, that’s all. I don’t care if Davies, James, and Carlyle all throw no-hitters next time out, we still need a starter. Any of the denizens who gamble at all, give me odds that none of the five we have go on the DL at some point. Now give me odds that none of them slump for three starts or so. You could still have rainout doubleheaders. Bottom line, I’d be more comfortable with Davies in Richmond as the no. 6 starter if needed.

Saw where Def Leppard and Styx were touring together- they came to Blossom in Akron July 13. Reminded me of the old joke..

What has seven arms and sucks?

Def Leppard, of course!

By Ron

July 15, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

DOB I understand why BC does not have any faith in Devine, BUT is he ever gonna have faith in him again, IF not then he would probably at least be talked about in trades!!! Not by himself of course but with other players included!!! Devine could not get much at all if he was in a straight up deal with somebody!!!

By Eric from San Jose

July 15, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Right now, the Braves can take a DEEP step into the playoffs if they deal for the following:

1) Matt Morris from the Giants. The Giants have a pitiful record of developing young talent, and need a shortstop to replace the fading Omar Vizquel.

Offering Escobar and/or Lillibridge would get their attention, and they likely have to offer in addition another pitcher like Reyes or Devine.

2) Making a move for Texiera is risky given his attitude, but no doubt his bat would electrify the lineup.

This would cost Salty and another great prospect like Andrus or Lillibridge.

These are HIGH cost trades, and unlikely given the budget contstraints.

They would make a dramatic improvement on the Mets and be near impossible to catch in the NL.

If they make the trades, a world series of Angels and Braves would be likely.

By Jared

July 15, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

DOB,

You going to give us your take on these Ian Snell rumors? Is it really being discuss like the Pittsburgh papers say? What are the chances? Saltalamacchia for Snell is an excellent deal for the Braves.

By Ron Roberts

July 15, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this

Careful Ron, you’ll get berated for even suggesting Joey Devine would be a player that’s tradeable.

I, too, question why Bobby Cox would even call the promising kid up if he has no faith in using him whatsoever. Actually, I questioned Bobby’s use of him back when he was up and struggling. Dude wasn’t ready, got rocked, and Bobby kept using him and keeping him in in situations where he was apt to get rocked.

I hope he pans out for us; I think he’s proven himself at every level of professional ball except the bigs, so there’s nowhere to go but here and to be used at some point and time, you’d think.

By rotomeister

July 15, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this

I vote no on Julio.

Nice to see the Braves have some consistency in all facets of the game this weekend at home vs. a team they should do well against.

By Josh C

July 15, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

I gotta say…

I love Salty’s potential as much as the next guy, but as potential suitors go I wouldn’t peg Pitt as a prime candidate. This Doumit kid has only been up since May and is hitting .300 with seven homers at C. Obviously LaRoche is at first. Wonder why they would be so interested? Now the Twins I could see. Joe mentioned that they had a scout there today and that they need a DH type. What a luxury if Mauer could DH twice a week, Salty the rest. I’d say Carlos Silva could be a possibility? He’s better than his recent slump. Just don’t get anybody named Boof on the team… I can already hear Bobby, “Get ‘em Boofy!”

By Michael Procton

July 15, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

Yes, B, J, $500K for a guy with as much service time and as much on his resume as Sosa is RIDICULOUSLY cheap. If you don’t think so, we should be glad it’s Bob, JOURNALIST, and not Bob, GM, or Bob, Owner.

By Mets Rule. You drool

July 15, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

I came here thinking I would see a bunch of blabbering about how you sweapt the Pirates but, Im glad to see thats not the case. Even you realise that beating the Pirates is not to hard. What will be a real eye opener is when the Reds come to town (a team the Amazin’s just DOMINATED). If/when you get swept by the Reds then YOUR going to be exposed!!!! And the Phils just beat up on the Cards over the weekend, so if/when you get SWEAPT by them well…then EVERYONE will know whos just a pretneder.

Unless you sign Julio by then, that could turn everything around. Hahahahahahahaha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By brian

July 15, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this

Nice spelling Mets. Please pay attention in your high school English class

By Michael Procton

July 15, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

It’s tough to talk about “dominating” your series when: a. You didn’t sweep it, and b. you won two separate 1-run games. Furthermore, the Reds ARE the worst team in baseball. On the Salty-to-Pittsburgh front, they also have a promising young catcher in Ronny Paulino who hasn’t had a great season this year but still has a .286 BA in about 700 career ABs. Granted, he’s obviously not better than Salty, but I wouldn’t think they’d just want to dump him.

By Jared

July 15, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

The Mets lost a game to the terrible Reds. So IF the Braves sweep the Reds, what does that say about the Mets?

Last I checked it was 6-0 Cardinals over Phillies in like the fifth or sixth inning.

By TheSouthernJackAss

July 15, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

“SWEAPT”?…”pretneder”?…looks like those New Yorkers have spent most of their money on public education…

By Salty

July 15, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

Come on, Brian, you just know he’s not in HS, yet!

By MEB

July 15, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

The Cardinals are playing home run derby in Philadelphia. Six home runs for the Cards against the Phillies. I guess 10,000 losses is a nice round number. OUCH!!!

So is everyone all pumped up for the ESPY’s? Want to see LeBron doing an MC Hammer impersonation?

Oh, the humanity!

By N8

July 15, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

Josh C

“What has seven arms and sucks?….Def Leppard, of course!”

While a classic joke (and funny at that), they have 5 members, so technically it would be nine arms.

:-)

By Jared

July 15, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

Does anyone find it funny “Mets….drool” says beating the Pirates is nothing special, then brags about how the Mets beat (and lost a game too) the Reds, a team with a worse record than the Pirates?

Government school, right?

By heath

July 15, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

You know…I actually like having fans from other teams here to give a different point of view on the unfolding season…. However, you drool, you provide nothing but “my team is better than yours, na na boo boo” jibber jabber. Going 3-1 against the Reds (who have a worse record that the Pirates) is THAT much better than the Braves sweeping the Pirates? Please???? Against the teams that matter…. Mets… vs 3-6 vs Atl, 0-3 vs Dodgers, 4-3 vs Ari, 0-0 vs SD…all for a 7-12 mark against the “good teams” in the NL…while the Braves are 6-3 vs the Mets, 4-3 vs Dodgers, 0-0 vs Ari, 5-2 vs SD…all for a 15-8 mark against the same schedule… No one expects the Braves or the Mets to continue to play poorly against the sub .500 teams, the question is, how will each team play against the better teams in the league….and so far, the Mets have not faired well.

By Mets Rule. You drool

July 15, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah, even if the Phils lose tonite they still win the series - jackasses, you know what I meant!!! Dont get exposed this week. Uh oh, you know it could happen.

By David-ATL14

July 15, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

* DOB*

My guess is that the 13th pitcher will disappear miracously, when the required 10 day minor league stay for Peterson Orr is finished.

I really think BC has rationalized the bench being shorthanded to make it an easy roster decision, when Orr can come back. I believe that day will be either Monday or Tuesday.

Crying shame because Pena should be here, he could actually contribute.

Bobby just can’t let go of his “Pete Orr Security Blanket”.

By SteelCav

July 15, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

Mets Rule…better get back to work studying for that GED son.

By Bob, Journalist

July 15, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, I agree that Salty is what he is, whatever that might be … it was reasonable to expect possible mediocre offensive production from a rookie thrust into the spotlight and getting OJT at a new position, regardless of his potential.

Also an offensive decline when he’s catching is a reasonable expectation … he may have caught the eye of other teams and the heart of Atlanta because of his attitude, strong arm, hustle, potential and fast start … but, the news is out all over town … and as he gains more exposure, be becomes more of a known quantity, strengths ans weaknesses alike.

I haven’t watched him close enough to know, but if he is highly predictable then we should expect the trend to continue because, to the extent that his hitting approach is exploitable, it will become increasingly exploited as it becomes better defined and as he begins to react to the fact that it is being exploited.

That said, we should assume that the powers that are contemplated the situation at the same time they decided to keep him at this level and are working just as hard to address the ‘predictability’ and ‘exploitable areas’ issues with him so that he can adjust and improve as a hitter without it manifesting into more than what it is expected to be.

We’re more attuned to the situation with rookies for which we have high expectations but methinks every player experiences it 7-24-365 … it’s easy for us to think that our guys should do well each time they throw a pitch or step into the batter’s box … even easier to forget the many games within the game that are going on throughout each and every one.

Whenever I was bowling a difficult opponent, I would frequently congratulate them on how well they were doing and casually ask them what they were doing differently … it never hurts to ask.

Personally, I thought Salty was highly exploitable and looked rather hapless the first time I saw him a couple of years back … now he’s much improved and looks to be a Coke rather than a Pepsi.

I don’t think it’s a first base jinx … and while I think the situation could have been better handled for both Scott and Salty, I do think Salty has the potential to be an impact player and have expectations of his playing well during this second half.

By keylargo25

July 15, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this

This is by no means a complete list but I was thinking about who has left the Braves in the last year or so and how are they doing.

Langerhans - in Wash. hitting .160 H. Ramirez - in Sea. ERA 6.50 (on DL) C. Reitsma - in Sea. ERA 5.50 A. Marte - in Clev. hitting .180 D. Kolb - out of baseball M. Redman - out of baseball C. Wilson - out of baseball

I’m sure the list is incomplete but JS sure knows when to dump players.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 15, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

it is noted with admiration that the sja picked up on the twilight zone reference earlier. code seems to be working. here is another message: shut-in, string, chin, chest, drool, special chair, wheels, no brakes, calamity, oh, the humanity!.

the ugly stinky blogger attempted to address this journalist earlier but did not stay connected long enough for new technology to be employed. must rely on a hammer for now.

now, baseball … tp is already with the team. give tp a bat and let tp play instead of julio. same bat speed, unfortunately. julio was a marvel for many years. now, the toll of time has erupted (more code). for whom the bell toles (more code).

and now, a quick chipper story. it is believed chipper may be reading this blog and has become uh, confused at some of journalist bob’s hypotheses. chipper is said to have enjoyed journalist bob’s fish story the other day but may have missed the intended message. bigger hook, right?

and whither carroll rogers with follow-up to the last blog?

and if lemke is reading this blog, congratulations on a head full of lemke’s own natural hair. (where was this hair growing? NEVERMIND! that is a most unpleasant thought). science is amazing.

By LT

July 15, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

If the Mets guy is posting to be funny, then he is really good. Some of those are so over the top they’re killing me.

If the dude is serious, dear god!

By MEB

July 15, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

Could our very own Atlanta Braves be the next to 10,000 losses? Well with 9,681 losses to our credit we are next in line for the dubious distinction. With 9,425 the Chicago Cubs, the lovable losers, are hot on our heels. Not fair we have to absorb all the losses of the Milwaukee Braves, Boston Braves, Boston Bees, Boston Rustlers, Boston Doves, Boston Beaneaters, and Boston Red Caps.

Oh, the humanity!

By HP

July 15, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

This is really funny. the Phillies fans are cheering loud to lose the game. They want to lose so badly. I never seen anything like this before. I can understand that they want to get 10,000 loses over quickly. Next UP: The braves have 9,681 loses. The cubs are behind the braves with 9,425 loses.

By Mets Rule. You drool

July 15, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

I have to do this every once in a while to keep you hillbilly’s in your place, but this is why it just does’t matter becaue over 162 games THESE FACTS will speak for themselves.

3b - Wright (Larrys good but softer than a down comforter), SS - Reyes (eveyrone in the league wishes they had him), 2B -coin flip, but when Valentin is swinging like he can you’ve got to go Mets, 1B - the Big D, he’s coming out of it 16 hr, our guy is like a pitcher, right? RF- Greenie over hte Whiffer, CF Beltran - All Star vs. Fatdruw,, LF we both have a question mark. don’t make me do the rotation = you’ll be hatin’ it. Bottom line posers- the TRUE TALENT will utimately come out.

By chrisklob

July 15, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

DOB, In your 4.17 pm post you said:

“Josh, when’s the last time you heard of a team trading in exchange for a pitcher who hasn’t even picked up a baseball yet in his recovery from Tommy John surgery?”

My response was merely to point out the fact that it does sometimes happen. In fact, there are two examples of that happening in the past year involving this franchise.

Now, I am not suggesting that Daryle Ward is the Second Coming but he’s been in the league ten years now. Remember he hit .308 for the Braves last year. Folks were pretty excited about him when he was here and I recall people on this blog being pretty ticked off that JS didn’t re-sign him. Oh, and he’s hitting .339 this year.

The other example was in spring training this year. JS essentially had his back up against the wall because Tony Pena was out of options and he didn’t have a roster spot for him so he took a guy from KC that won’t throw a pitch in 07. Now, I realize that this situation doesn’t exactly mirror the Gonzalez situation either. But it is another example of a GM taking a flyer on a guy who might, just might, have a big upside. Kind of reminds me of a friend in high school whose dad bought a bunch of Chrysler stock back in the late 70’s or early 80’s (or whenever that was). He bought thousands or shares for essentially a song, held on to it for a few years, dumped it and he’s been living on easy street every since. If Chrysler had gone bankrupt it wouldn’t have killed my friend’s dad because he was already pretty wealthy but when it took off he looked like a hero.

For the record, I have never advocated trading Gonzalez, regardless of his current health status. I know we would NEVER get value for him. My point was simply to refute your point. Sometimes “legit talent” does get traded for someone that won’t perform for a while.

By Michael Procton

July 15, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

One note, KeyLargo: Craig Wilson indeed IS in baseball…hitting .180 in 61 ABs with a grand total of 3 XBH! Poor guy…I really was excited about the signing at the time.

By chrisklob

July 15, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

Mets Fool, this is the only time that I will ever address you. Not because you are a Mets fan but because you are a bonified, certified, classified TROLL. Come to talk baseball and you will be accepted here, regardless of your favorite team. Come to pound your chest and talk trash and you will forever be known as a blathering idiot.

You said: “I came here thinking I would see a bunch of blabbering about how you sweapt the Pirates but, Im glad to see thats not the case”.

You see, this exemplifies what separates you and most Mets fans and most Braves fans. We understand what we are. Are we excited and happy that our team swept the Pirates? Of course we are, but we realize that sweeping the Pirates isn’t exactly the same thing as sweeping Detroit or Boston.

While we may not like our warts, we accept them for what they are. Do we have unlimited funds to buy the best team that money can buy? NO! Do we wish that Ted Turner still owned this team and we could go out and buy whatever piece necessary to complete the puzzle? Absolutely! However, that’s not our reality any more. Therefore, we understand that in order to compete in this league JS must spend his money a little more wisely.

Now, your people on the other hand, spend too much time chasing the Yankees in the tabloids. And you know exactly what I’m talking about. Omar Minaya must feel like a drunken sailor on leave in a cathouse with twenty dollar bills falling out of his pocket the way he spends money. You and most of your fans have absolutely no class. You are a disgrace to this game.

You may be in first place now but that won’t last. You’re not even in first place in New York. The Yankees, who really aren’t very good this year, still hold that distinction. Face it, you’re a pretender, not a contender. Go away you little troll and don’t come back until you’re ready to have a mature, reasonable discussion about baseball instead of the usual garbage that spews from your nasty little mouth.

By rupert

July 15, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this

here’s a crazy idea…. pitch devine instead of yates, the kids got good numbers, just don’t bring him in with the bases loaded

By Michael Procton

July 15, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this

*Wilson’s in AAA with Charlotte (CWS)…I guess I forgot to put that part.

By chrisklob

July 15, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

Mets Fool, well, I am going against something that I just posted. After reading your 9.20 post I just have to make a comment.

Have your sought counseling for your obvious mental conditions? I think they call it “delusions of grandeur” son, and you have a terminal case of it. Seriously, the nice men in the white coats down at Bellevue are there to help you.

Delusions of grandeur are often associated with people that are manic or suffer from bipolar disorder. Now it makes sense to me. This explains why you are gone for long stretches of time (on business trips, of course). Those “business trips” take place while you are in one of your depressed cycles.

Seek help Mets Fool. There is help for the deranged like yourself. All you have to do is ask and the nice man will give you a shot and make you all better.

By TheSouthernJackAss

July 15, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

Many vermin tracks are appearing on the blog at the moment—but they’re all from the same ill-scented jackal…poor spelling…good spelling…no spelling at all…

By Lew

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

Chris-If the Drooling Fool talked baseball, all he would be doing is proving what a complete moron he is (though he;s doing a good job of that already. Brian-you’re assuming he actually has a HS education. Now you Drooling Troll-If Lastings Milledge is the answer to all your perverse dreams and outfield problems, how are you going to trade him for all that pitching you were going to get for him?

By journalist jimmy smith

July 15, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this

can’t make journalist the heavy here, stinky. good try, though. past 10:00 now, so have at it. stinky can blog with stinky.

By chrisklob

July 15, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

Lew, I’m afraid that certified morons might take offense to your last comment! :-)

By S T I N K Y

July 15, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

Darkness flees from the light. Lies quake in front of the truth.

By Salty

July 15, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

SJA Ever wonder why the AJC needs 10 cookies to track your movements? Maybe SJA will show up at your door.

You just got your invitation to effect a ‘blog-cleansing’…have at it, with glee!!!

By S T I N K Y

July 15, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

Who in the hell would want Lastings Milledge on their team?

By vwburt

July 15, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

bring julio back. we need him in the clubhouse and in the dugout. julio will make a great coach. julio numbers will go up playing for bobby.

By Lew

July 15, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

Chris-Exactly what board certifies Morons? Stinky-That’s the point. Drooling Fool thinks that not only is Milledge responsible for the Mets so called turn in fortunes the past two nights, but he thinks every team that wants to dump pitching thinks Milledge should be the answer to their prayers, too. You’re right, though. Nobody wants the grief and aggravation he would bring. Maybe they should trade him to the Rays so they could package him with their problem child Dukes-some prison may have a serial killing pitcher they could get in return.

By S T I N K Y

July 15, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this

The Mets fans are feeling their team’s pain right now and so any panacea like Milledge brings joy. When Glavine fades and Pedro’s arm only spits out 84 MPH fastballs, the Mets fans will leave this blog with their drool and tears intermingled, especially the real Met fans who bought tickets to games at Shea. Imagine having tickets to watch a trainwreck. Those things won’t be worth the cost to print them.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 15, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this

Please do not feed the trolls, it only encourages them to come back later.

Were it not for Bobby Cox and John Schuerholz it could just as easily have been the Braves playing to avert their 10,000 loss today.

Seems that Tampa Bay will make a serious run at it if given enough time.

I have already stated my opinion on Julio, kind of like trading a Ford in for another Ford. I am not sure it is too much of an upgrade but we shall see. At least we would not have to give up a prospect for him.

After listining to the comments about the little dust up between Omar and Willie in Ney York, I am not sure it is really about skill as much as revenge. We will see in a few days. Meanwhile, great game by Buddy today. Told you guys what you could expect. I did not think he would do this well though.

He has been a real shot in the arm for a very suspect staff. What more can you ask than to have a guy go out and give his team a chance to win? That said, he still has trouble getting out of the first inning. Of course, he is not the first Atlanta pitcher to have that trait.

Richmond lost today to Columbus 6-1. Blaine Boyer took the loss giving up 3 runs (2 earned) on 8 hits and 3 walks with 7 strike outs in 6 innings pitched.

Brian Pena went 1 for 3 plus a walk and played left field. He was picked off base once and caught stealing. He is currently batting .328

I will be going to some of the games this week when the R-Braves return to Richmond this week. I will give a little better report as personal observations are best.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 15, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

Buddy Carlyle reminds me of a right handed Tom Glavin in that he is such a fast worker. He does not appear to be afraid to use his defense. I get most frustrated by Tyler Yates when he tries to nibble the corners and ends up either walking the batter in allows for those 3-0 and 3-1 counts and feels compelled to serve it up on a tee.

I am at a loss as to why Bobby Cox has not used Joey Devine. Is he hurt? If you are afraid to use him then why have him on the roster? Can you really expect a guy to be able to give you quality pitches when you use him once every 15 days?

By chrisklob

July 15, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this

Gil, I know that your initial comment was to me and I know that apologies are in order. Braveheart has sometimes referred to the rule as the “chrisklob rule” as I was the one who originally proposed it. Therefore, I am a little ashamed to be exposed as a hypocrite.

To all the regular bloggers here, please accept my apologies for my weakness. It is late, I am tired, and perhaps a little too drunk on bourbon to restrain myself. Thank goodness I didn’t drink tequila tonight! Who knows what I would have said.

That being said, I stand by my statement regarding fans of opposing teams posting here. I’ve no problem with it as long as they have something of interest to say.

By meansonny

July 15, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

The Braves are on a nice run here. 2 Sweeps. 2 series wins. And a 4 game split.

It’d be nice to get off to a great start against Cincy. It’d also be nice if we could give Kyle some more early runs to work with. I’m expecting a big day from the top half of the lineup tomorrow.

By P-Town Brave

July 15, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

Only the Met troll would pick a 34 yr old who has been past his game since 2002 in RF over an up and coming 24 yr old w/ star talent…oh, and Valentin…now THATS funny!

Does this guy slip himself roofies?

He’d have to if he believes any of the crap he’s spewing!

I mean I’m just as much a Braves fan as anyone else, but to compare what Chipper has done over his career to David Wright and to compare Shawn Green present version to Jeff Francoeur?!?! That would be like us saying Scott Thorman is as good as Albert Pujols!

You have learned since day 1 to discredit yourself and do it well Met…so I guess you have that goin for you…

Just a thought, stay away from our blog until you have some shred of sanity and integrity, you TOOL!

By TexasBrave

July 15, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this

DOB

I know you have fielded a lot of questions about Joey Devine, but I have a question with a little different spin.

Who actually determines what player is called up? Do BC and JS get together to make the decision or is it JS straight up. The reason I ask is because it seems to me (and others on this blog as well) that Bobby does not have faith in Joey. If that is the case and Mr. Cox is involved in the decision on who comes up, then why would he call up someone he knows he is not going to use or does not have faith in.

All I am really asking for (because I wouldn’t want to get you into BC’s or JS’s doghouse) is who makes the decisions on what players to bring up?

Thanks

By TheSouthernJackAss

July 15, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

No I could be mistaken—the big, bad, BOLD-FACED S T I N K Y isn’t nearly as smart as the old stinky, the stinky that used to get his tail kicked every other night by just about every blogger here…the stinky that had his manhood stripped from him countless times…the stinky that suffered a stinky meltdown…remember that?…the only person ever in the history of the blog to be dumb enough to get himself banned…no, you’re in way that stinky…you’re just a cheap, generic, wannabe stinky…just another johnny-come-lately troll whelp suckin’ hind teat and cravin’ attention…hang in there tho…but I think you should use your usual blog name, it’s more becoming…now go have fun with yourself…

By Next Trailer Over

July 15, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this

I live in the trailer next door and she was hollering all kinds of Old Testament stuff while Jackass was over there. I think she may have had a spiritual awakening - or several.

By Theoldprofessor

July 16, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

Dear MetsRule; Is there the slightest chance you’ll learn to spell and punctuate like a normal adult in the 21st century? Oh, I forgot. You’re the product of a northern school system and must be forgiven your consistent ineptitude. Sorry man, I didn’t know you were so handicapped.

By Double Deuce

July 16, 2007 12:26 AM | Link to this

Got to see six of the Braves’ west coast games and came away pretty impressed. Is it me, or do the Braves bats go as Chipper goes? The guy is a phenominal hitter and it seems as though the rest of the team feeds off his success. The future is indeed bright with the young talent on this team and the level at which they play already. Saw Jojo Reyes pitch in San Diego. He looks like a kid with a lot of promise, but it was obvious he needs more time in the minors, but if he is indicative of the talent we have in the minor leagues then we have something to look forward to. Scott Thorman plays and swings like a football player. IMO, if he’s going to be a major league player he needs to shorten his swing considerably. The only pitches he hits are mistakes and he doesn’t even hit those hard. First base needs an upgrade. Salty is the obvious answer so whatever it takes to get him in the lineup every day should be done. The Willie/Kelley scenario is a good problem to have. Seems as though Willie is the more natural leadoff guy because of his speed and base stealing ability and he is definitely a threat every time he gets on base. Kelly you have to love because he never questions decisions and just goes out and hits. Willie seems to be cooling off a little so I’m sure we’ll see Kelly back in the leadoff spot soon. What a huge upgrade over Marcus Giles. It was interesting to watch Bobby pitch Tyler Yates so often. He seemed tired, as did Moylan, during Monday’s game after the all night trip and had to be exhausted by Saturday when Bobby had Paronto loose but opted for Tyler again. Must say a lot about what he thinks of Tyler, or maybe what he thinks of his other options. Saw Yates on TV yesterday and I still don’t think he’s recovered. Hope he comes back quick because this is crunch time and we need every arm we have, including Paronto and Devine. It takes a bullpen, not just Moylan, Soriano, Yates and Wickman. I’m not real big on the Julio Franco deal either. The only way I see it making any sense is if we are picking him up as a clubhouse leader or something along those lines. Everyone rags on Woodward, but the guy can play anywhere. I don’t see the value of platooning a 48 year old with Salty at first. OK, just a few observations after seeing the Bravos in person. 1 1/2 games back in mid July is a far cry from last year. This is going to be a great 2 1/2 months of baseball.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

TexasBrave, the decisions on callups are ultimately up to John and Kurt Kemp, the first-year dir. of player development. But others have input, such as asst GM Frank Wren and, for sure, Cox.

Bobby definitely has input on a lot of them. For instance, often they’ll ask him what he thought of this guy or that guy when he saw him in spring training or in the fall instructional league, and would he be comfortable with him?

But often, the Braves will need a pitcher or position player in a hurry, and Bobby will really just be told more or less who’s available and who’s the most ready, either because he’s on proper rest, is on the 40-man roster, etc.

Or if they believe the kid’s made a lot of progress since Cox saw him, or if Cox didn’t see him or doesn’t remember much about him from some brief opportunity he had to see the player at some point in the past year or two, they’ll just tell Bobby, hey, the kid’s ready and we’re bringing him up.

They don’t bring up people Cox doesn’t want on the team, at least not in most instances. There are extenuating circumstances, such as some guy being on the 40-man roster, or maybe some guy’s being shopped for a trade, or whatever, when they have to make decisions that perhaps Bobby’s not 100 percent in agreement with.

Again, it’s John’s call, like everything else outside of the actual on-field management of the team. He’s the man with the most power, make no mistake.

But Bobby also is more revered, respected, relied upon, however you want to put it, than most men in his position, simply because of his huge stature and his long working relationship with Schuerholz, etc.

By TennesseePaul

July 16, 2007 12:39 AM | Link to this

DOB: I came back from a day at the beach club and started catching up on the blog. I don’t expect you to read every single post I make. But, in light of your 7:39pm post, I’d like to shed some light on my 5:04pm post… This is just for the record. Keep it noted. The credit was given and I think it’s due. I’m right there with you on those sentiments.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2007 12:39 AM | Link to this

Double Deuce, may I suggest breaking up your post into a few paragraphs. I say this because it’s a helluva good post, with a lot of points I really agree with and several very savvy observations that, in my opinion, are right on target.

It’s just a bit tough to read in one long graph, but good stuff.

By Earl

July 16, 2007 12:44 AM | Link to this

I was also at the Richmond/Columbus game today and except for one bad inning Boyer was okay, generally throwing strikes. Brayan Pena actually started in left field and took a bad route to get to a ball in the corner and let another ball drop in front of him, plus he was caught stealing. Still, I’d rather have him up here than Orr, who didn’t do anything.

I like Julio, but I’m not crazy about adding him to the team, he’s hardly gonnna get any chance to play and his skills look like they’ve diminished. Maybe we can convince him to finally go to a lighter bat.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2007 12:55 AM | Link to this

TennPaul, I had not seen your post. Just went back and saw it. Kudos. And you’re right — folks gave Leo all the credit for so many reclamation projects, without knowing exactly the details on what went into various ones and who else might have had a hand, so it’s only fair McDowell get the credit for this one. Because Buddy wasn’t coming back from injury, he was coming back from being mediocre (at best) his whole career.

He’s been far from that for several starts now.

And like Double Deuce’s post, yours also contained several other points that make me nod in agreement. Like your ideas on first base, and catcher, and think those are options being considered by the powers that be.

By fastasballs

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

So far the Braves have done everything needed since the west coast swing started. They gained tie breakers against the Padres & Dodgers, plus swept the Pirates who had been playing some very good ball.

Now for the Reds, a team the Braves should clobber, but as we all know teams like this can give the Braves fits. Another lefty tomorrow that they have never seen & Davies on hill for the Braves. Watch out, this may be the one game of the series that bites them.

With every win the in this series the Braves will gain a game on either the Muts or Padres. A sweep here & they are either leading the division or the wild card race. The same holds true in the next series, the Braves face the Cards while the Muts take on the Dodgers.

By Coach (Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 16, 2007 1:14 AM | Link to this

Journalist Bob , Sammy Sosa has played right field this season for the Rangers. Thats what I meant when I said Sosa hasn’t played left field in years but can play the outfield. Half a million is DIRT cheap in relation to what most veterans make. Hell , Tanyon Sturtze is being paid 750,000 by the Braves and he might not even pitch for them this season. Besides , outfielders are easier to acquire than infielders and the Braves could have Diaz play 1B when and if needed. I don’t know what the Rangers are asking for him. But , I think Sosa would be a steal. Think about it for a second , a big time HR threat off the bench or in LF , the veteran presence of a 602 career HR player , a future hall of famer , what’s not to like ? 48 year old Julio Franco or 38 year old Sammy Sosa , come on , gimme a break !!!!!

By Renegator

July 16, 2007 1:25 AM | Link to this

Does journalist jimmy smith and the southernjackass ever contribute anything remotely intelligent about baseball to this blog? I don’t know about the rest of you, but i grow very tired of all the ” jackal ” tirades, and all of the other nonsense that they post. I mean really, who gives a crap about jjs’s baby seal? What is he talking about regarding this, his privates? Who owns a baby seal? Enough with all of the babble from you two. Boringgggggggg!!!!!!

Now, for baseball talk. While many may disagree, I would rather the Braves stand pat and not aquire any starting pitching for several reasons. Number one, as been already stated here, the asking price for these pitchers that have been mentioned in rumors is ridiculous. I will put it this way. I would not trade Salty or Escobar for any pitcher that has been in these rumors. That seems to be what everyone is asking from us, Salty and/or Escobar. Totally ridiculous.

Number two, Gorzelanny and Snell, seem to be the most interesting out of all of the pitchers that have been mentioned. However, being that they are still very young and have only several seasons of experience between them, I would just hold on to my two young stars and go with what we have. I do realize you have to give up something of value to get something of value, but I would not be willing to get rid of those two for any of the pitchers that have been mentioned in these rumors.

Number 3, it looks like Carlyle, James, and Davies are capable of getting the job done. It would be different if we had some teams in the division that were worth a crap, but we don’t.

My suggestion, for what it’s worth, would be to go with what we have, and maybe, like DOB mentioned, go after Julio Franco and maybe a cheaper, lower quality starting pitcher.

It would also be nice if Liberty Media is upping payroll in the 10-20 million dollar range, to apply that to signing Andruw to a long term contract. While I don’t believe in paying him the maximum of what Boras is asking, I do think that if the Braves would come up with something reasonable and fair, that he would take a small hometown discount, to stay with the manager that he respects so much. Let’s face it people, a center fielder of the caliber of Andruw, Hunter, and Ichiro, has gone out the roof. There are no others like them. I do not want to watch Willie Harris and Brandon Jones fumble around all over the place in center field next year, trying to man that position. I only say this because some of you have mentioned them as Andruw replacements.

By TexasBrave

July 16, 2007 1:33 AM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for the insite into the inner workings. Eventhough you said BC has a lot of input, I really thought he would have more than that since he is the man who puts the players on the field and should know what he wants/needs.

I also take it that since you did not comment on Devine’s situation that you are not able to do so which I respect. It just seems to me if Bobby really had input into the decision to bring Devine up that he would use him more than he has. I believe he has had the opportunities in games that did not require the services of his more trusted relievers.

I am sure that JS is the man who makes the decisions on who to pick up via trades, but does BC also give input about what players he would like to see the Braves trade for? Maybe not so much a specific player but rather whether or not to get a bench player, first baseman, starter, etc? Because I know there has been much talk about picking up a first baseman (Tex) and a starting pitcher, but I can’t see us getting both. I am sure Bobby knows what he would like. Or even perhaps players he does not want to see go.

Thanks

By Coach (Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 16, 2007 1:39 AM | Link to this

The Rangers most immediate priority leading up to the July 31 trade deadline is to find a new home for Sammy Sosa.

The Rangers, according to Major League officials, will drive a hard bargain for first baseman Mark Teixeira and relievers Akinori Otsuka and Eric Gagne, but have told teams they will be more than reasonable if somebody is interested in Sosa.

Sosa went into Saturday’s game hitting .241 with 14 home runs and a club-leading 63 RBIs, but so far the Rangers have found little in the way of a market for the 38-year-old outfielder/designated hitter. Most teams are still focused on acquiring pitching and the Rangers may have an easier time dealing Jamey Wright than they do Sosa.

“I don’t make those decisions, but there are a lot of people here who are in the same situation,” Sosa said. “When that happens I’ll believe it. Right now I’m focused on what I have to do here. That’s my concern. Right now I’m living day-to-day…….. Yo , John Schuerholz , opportunity is knocking.

By TheSouthernJackAss

July 16, 2007 1:40 AM | Link to this

Renegator—you made more sense when you were posting as S T I N K Y—if you don’t like all the “nonsense”…you found your way onto this blog…I’m sure a pithy b@stard such as yourself can find your way off the blog…

TheJackAss sure used the right bait tonight…

By Coach (Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 16, 2007 1:44 AM | Link to this

Redman leaves RedHawks: Veteran pitcher Mark Redman has opted out of his contract at Oklahoma. Redman made nine starts for the RedHawks and was 2-4 with a 5.34 ERA. There was almost no chance of him being called up to the Major Leagues. I would like to know who made the decision to go after Mark Redman in the first place.

By MS

July 16, 2007 1:50 AM | Link to this

DOB, any word on any payback for Laroche before he split town? Chip or Joe (don’t remember which) said today that he was constantly looking over his shoulder in the locker room when they interviewed him on Friday. I love it.

By Serbok

July 16, 2007 2:05 AM | Link to this

* I Have Stated* Many times?

The bRavos NEED to stand PAT!!! Do not trade for the sake of trading? Andrew has irked us all? However~ when Druw becomes Druw~ which seems very likely? How many will regret posts that were made in haste? As was said in the telecast~the only logical replacement would have been Ichiro~(WoW) that woulda been cool? I’ts fun to prognosticate? But existentially speaking THIS IS the TEAM THAT will win the division! Yunel, Salty, Once traded ARE gone 4ever~ and the likes of those do not come by often? How ‘Bout Buddy 2nite? I stand Fast with Davies!!! I tell you’se guy’s~ He will not fail!!!!! Reason I say this, is cuz, competition breeds excellence? I would very much like to see US get Julio back! Thats the only move that maybe? needs to be made~ and to be honest~ it doesnt NEED to be made. Would be a nice addition for intangables . We ARE gonna Win The Division! And get past the first round! WITH the TEAM we have! Call me a homey? I dont really care~ The Braves ARE the Class of the national league! BTW ya’ll think that JS was using an Iphone 2night? my guess is yes~ if he was not then???????????? We maybe technologically challenged? Just Like our Illustrious Blog Leader DOB when it comes to music? ;O)

By Kool Aid Drinker

July 16, 2007 2:07 AM | Link to this

No to Julio

No to Sosa

YES to any available SP

Ive been a stout Davies supporter since spring training but hes too damn streaky. That 2 inning b****** can ruin a bullpen for weeks.

i missed all the Pitt games can somebody tell me how Snell and Gorzelany looked? I like the fact that Snell eats up innings. But Id rather keep Salty and play him at first and trade Escobar to Cinci for a SP. of course i think Escobar is going to be a helluva player. The more time I watch both kids play the more I wouldnt mind keeping both of them around and sticking with the hand we’ve got you know?

Who would have thought when we dumped Giles that we would have 2 above average 2nd baseman on the team both competing for playing time.

By Serbok

July 16, 2007 2:13 AM | Link to this

DOB I should have said musical management:o) An Ipod cannot be replaced by any Album Design or paper cover~ Get an Ipod shuffle~ and its like music from the sky!!!!!!!! LOL I do understand wanting to have one’s hands on material and many other things that make the hands correlate to the mind? However~ the music is cerebral~ regardless? You Old folk need to grow up and keep on keepin on? LOL

By DAD

July 16, 2007 2:16 AM | Link to this

Braves fans!. Why do you think the Mets released Franco? Because they knew the Braves,with so many weaknesses,would be dumb enough to sign him. The Braves already have an automatic out with Thorman. With Franco, you have another automatic out coming off the bench. With these dumb moves by the Braves, you Braves fans can go ahead and concede that the Mets are going to win the NL East fairly easy.

By Coach (Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 16, 2007 2:32 AM | Link to this

By Kool Aid Drinker

July 16, 2007 2:07 AM | Link to this

No to Julio

No to Sosa…….So what is your rational , other than being a butthead ?

By TheSouthernJackAss

July 16, 2007 2:33 AM | Link to this

Dave O’Brien had a blog,

Ee i ee i oh!

And on his blog he had some trolls,

Ee i ee i oh!

With a Mets drool here,

And a Renegator there

Here a troll, there a troll,

Everywhere a damn troll

Dave O’Brien had a blog

Ee i ee i oh!

Dave O’Brien had a blog,

Ee i ee i oh!

And on his blog he had some jackals,

Ee i ee i oh!

With a S T I N K Y here,

And a stinky there

Here a jackal, there a jackal,

Everywhere a damn jackal

Dave O’Brien had a blog,

Ee i ee i oh!

Dave O’Brien had a blog,

Eei ee i oh!

And on his blog he had some A$sClowns,

Ee i ee i oh!

With a caveman here,

And a Ron Roberts there

Here an A$sClown, there an A$sClown,

Everywhere a damn A$sClown

Dave O’Brien had a blog

Ee i ee i oooooooooooohhh!…

How’s that for nonsense b***?…

By Serbok

July 16, 2007 2:36 AM | Link to this

DAD No Offense Bro’ I do not want Julio for his bat~tho it will be better than Deadwoods~ if needed~ Not AT ALL Son! WE need him to pitch the eleventh inning should it come down to that!

By Train Wreck Bystander

July 16, 2007 2:48 AM | Link to this

I do think there is a place at the Braves table for Julio Franco. Maybe let him finish out the year from the bench and find a coaching spot for him next year? Surely at some level they would want his mentoring.

I’ll say this - Woodward played today like someone lit a fire under him. Heh. Is he hearing footsteps?

Carlyle has been a godsend and I hope he wears the same pair of socks for the rest of the season - don’t change anything, man.

But another starter wouldn’t hurt. And I am no Saltymaniac - I’d trade him for a quality arm in a heartbeat. But we need to keep Escobar to spell Chipper.

By Serbok

July 16, 2007 2:51 AM | Link to this

While I’m thinking about the braves? We should CERTAINLY move Chipper to First base~ Salty to Third~ B-Mac to second and bring up Pena to catch? Ya know~ I dont claim to be a Jerry Garcia!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! But even Jerry would have said~ WHAT? I dont know much about baseball but~ that really dont sound like sumpin I could get “jiggy” wid! Who are these people? “LET THERE BE SONGS TO FILL THE AIR”!

By Kool Aid Drinker

July 16, 2007 2:54 AM | Link to this

1. Sammy Sosa is a cheat
2. He plays in a hitters park. Turner Field is a pitchers park.
3. I never dug the bunny hop - homerun hop - whatever you wanna call it when he watched his ball fly out of Wrigley Field -another hitters park.
4. The Whole Steroids Thing. Why bring that into the Braves franchise.

How was Sosa as an Oriole?

By Serbok

July 16, 2007 2:59 AM | Link to this

DOB Thanx for the post I am about to paste REALLY opened my EYES I do Appreciate it! thanx man

By David O’Brien

July 16, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

TexasBrave, the decisions on callups are ultimately up to John and Kurt Kemp, the first-year dir. of player development. But others have input, such as asst GM Frank Wren and, for sure, Cox.

Bobby definitely has input on a lot of them. For instance, often they’ll ask him what he thought of this guy or that guy when he saw him in spring training or in the fall instructional league, and would he be comfortable with him?

But often, the Braves will need a pitcher or position player in a hurry, and Bobby will really just be told more or less who’s available and who’s the most ready, either because he’s on proper rest, is on the 40-man roster, etc.

Or if they believe the kid’s made a lot of progress since Cox saw him, or if Cox didn’t see him or doesn’t remember much about him from some brief opportunity he had to see the player at some point in the past year or two, they’ll just tell Bobby, hey, the kid’s ready and we’re bringing him up.

They don’t bring up people Cox doesn’t want on the team, at least not in most instances. There are extenuating circumstances, such as some guy being on the 40-man roster, or maybe some guy’s being shopped for a trade, or whatever, when they have to make decisions that perhaps Bobby’s not 100 percent in agreement with.

Again, it’s John’s call, like everything else outside of the actual on-field management of the team. He’s the man with the most power, make no mistake.

But Bobby also is more revered, respected, relied upon, however you want to put it, than most men in his position, simply because of his huge stature and his long working relationship with Schuerholz, etc

By P-Town Brave

July 16, 2007 3:03 AM | Link to this

I don’t disagree at all w/ not bringing Julio back, but Sosa is intriguing…especially if you can get him for nothing…why not? The guy is still a run producer and if anyone has seen him lately, no he may not be able to jack one 500 feet anymore, but he’s lost a bunch of weight and got his speed back so he’s more of a threat there…but like I said, only if we’d give up a lot of nothing to get him. I’d like to assume that it has to account for something for having 63 RBI on a bad team…none of our players have 63 yet…

Oh…and no to Contreras as well since I heard we had scouts at his last start..

DOB —-One more thing I have to ask…what is the real deal on Pena playing all these positions in Richmond? Are we going to trade him or is the idea to treat him like he’s part of the circus?

By Bob, Journalist

July 16, 2007 4:29 AM | Link to this

Coach, I couldn’t agree with you more that $500,000 is dirt cheap compared to what most veterans make … and I wasn’t trying suggest otherwise.

I admit that the low price would normally make me a bit reluctant to consider him for I would certainly want to know than the surface reasons for it being so low. Especially with the latest clouds, May, 2007 connecting his name with the Mitchell Investigation.

I can’t really disagree with the notion that he would probably provide increased power off the bench … However, Texas doesn’t seem to think he’s worth keeping … and aren’t asking anything for him.

Sosa’s defensive play improved somewhat later in his career but at his best, I never considered him to be better than mediocre. I’m sure others have a different opinion but I wouldn’t want him in my outfield.

I was having a bit of fun with the first part of that post but I honestly do not care for Sosa the man, and wouldn’t have him on my team, regardless of his potential offensive contribution. That my opinion, based on what I’ve seen, heard and read over the years, and don’t expected it to shared by others.

By Serbok

July 16, 2007 4:58 AM | Link to this

My aplogies for “reposting” DOB’s earler post:o( my bad~ As far as Sosa HE!! NO!

By Nikki

July 16, 2007 5:24 AM | Link to this

Boy! Chipper’s been on fire since our guy, Smoltz, lit a fire under him. That’s why we love Smoltz. He’s not afraid to say what’s on his mind and he’s very involved in the Atlanta community. Hopefully, Smoltz will retire a Brave. Wearing any other uniform would seem criminal. On another note, signing Franco couldn’t hurt. The fans love him. he definitely couldn’t be any worse than what we have. BTW, diid the Braves GM mention anything about getting a starting pitcher while you were in the box with him.

By Metropolitan Man

July 16, 2007 5:39 AM | Link to this

Morning all, gotta question for DOB. The one thing all of us bloggers have in common is we love baseball. Any thought to getting a braves bloggers softball game going. You guys have enough bloggers to form a team if they are locals. Heck, with us METS fans on this blog you might even have enough to get a league or have at least a rivalry team which is always good sport. Its just a thought since every one here is MLB caliber, we can then take our frusrtations about our respective clubs to the field of battle. If people dont want to play we still need ballboys, batboys, umpires,ect…. I’m already playing softball on Mondays so even if this dont happen, hit me up if you trying to get into the game.

LETS GO METS!!!

By Coach (Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 16, 2007 5:42 AM | Link to this

1. Sammy Sosa is a cheat. Prove it !
2. He plays in a hitters park. Turner Field is a pitchers park. 81 at home 81 on the road , wrong answer.
3. I never dug the bunny hop - homerun hop - whatever you wanna call it when he watched his ball fly out of Wrigley Field -another hitters park. So your biased against black players are you !
4. The Whole Steroids Thing. Why bring that into the Braves franchise. Again , prove it fart brain and this is 2007 not 2005. Sosa is playing for the Rangers , not the Orioles. Kool Aid drinker , you are a complete butthead.

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 5:45 AM | Link to this

It looks like I am going to have to kick the jacka$$ and put him back in the barn. The idiot is doing nursery rhymes now. I guess it is my responsibility since I am his master. I will let the b!tch come back out when he can learn to talk BASEBALL!!!!!

By Jeff R

July 16, 2007 6:34 AM | Link to this

Salty doesn’t have enough at-bats at 1st base to qualify as part of the problem there. I don’t mind Julio coming back and riding the pines along with Thorman, but the Braves need to give 1st base to Salty. Work with him on defense, for certain, but give him the job.

Old news, but the other night, Soriano pitched like his mind was on what he was going to have for dinner after the game. And pulling James because he was approaching or at the 100 pitch count…why is Cox being so mechanical? How about talking to your pitcher and observing him?

By Big Ed

July 16, 2007 7:24 AM | Link to this

Bring back Julio to be Andruw’s personal hitting coach. He looked baaaad with bases loaded yesterday. He just doesn’t get it so maybe another player can get to him since the coaches cannot.

By Kaye

July 16, 2007 7:29 AM | Link to this

Well we all know Bobby.. I can see it now, Salty hitting 450 and Bobby goes with the veteran batting 201 in the playoffs. NOT A JOKE.

I just dont see where Julio can help us. He cant hit anymore and hes old. We need a impact player off the bench and IMO Julio is not a player anymore. Its time for him to hang up those baseball shoes. Spend the money but spend it on someone who can hit above the mendoza line and can still play. Franco is not the guy for this team.

No matter, Bobby likes him and he will be back playing 1st, while Salty sits. Just watch.

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 7:37 AM | Link to this

Just came in to check on last night’s posts and I’m glad I wasn’t here. It got downright UGGlee!

By ssiscribe

July 16, 2007 7:51 AM | Link to this

Top of the morning, denizens. I’m feeling good this morning, since I just booked my October trip to Vegas! Oh, yeah, look out Sin City, here comes the Scribe for five days and four nights of baseball, Scotch, slots and sightseeing.

Now, I’m hoping my baseball team will be on the big screens in the sports books, opening play in the NL Division Series when I’m there. Feeling good about those odds.

Great weekend for the Braves. Yes, it was the Pirates, but three wins is three wins. I’ll gladly take four more this week against the Reds and Cardinals. Remember, 7-3 homestand to start would be a good boost.

But, the way the Braves are playing right now, 8-2 or 9-1 isn’t out of the realm of possibility. Cards are a mess (St. Simons Island’s Adam Wainwright helped them right the ship last night — gotta front-row seat down the third-base line to see the pride of the SSI and one heck of a good guy pitch Friday night at Turner Field), even though Phat Albert is starting to rake. Reds really are bad, but they have decent pitching and did take one in Flushing (and could’ve/should’ve/would’ve taken one or two more, darnit).

Braves just need to keep on keeping on, with the Mets heading west to face the two hot Southern California teams battling for the NL West lead. Keep winning. Keep the pressure on, guys. I’ve said it before, and it’s been noted by esteemed bloggers that this race officially has reached “It’s On Like Donkey Kong” status. Keep bringing it, Bravos.

Now, Salty (noted transition by the Scribe): Love the Web site www.startsalty.com … found it hilarious when I checked it out last week. Thought Bradley’s column was spot-on good about the Web site, and love the fact somebody showed it to Jarrod. And which intrepid reporter’s laptop was used in the showing of startsalty.com to Salty?

Now, toes (noted transition by the Scribe): During the summer, one must take care to protect toes from the elements. Once a resident of an island along the coast, I have dealt with stubbed toes on conch shells, sunburned toes and sand in between the toes (oh the humanity!). Now that I live in the big city, I have to deal with hot asphalt in the summer and the occasional cigar ashes that land on toes when I wear sandals and burn meat on the grill in the backyard (but burned just right, mind you, like the steaks we cooked to celebrate the sweep yesterday evening).

Then, there are mountain trips, where toes can stumble when walking on hilly trails. Please take care of your toes, because toes are not to be trifled with (any great blogger will tell you that, and I had to put this at the end so I wouldn’t end my sentence with a preposition). Just a public service notice the Esteemed Ugandan Journalist would appreciate.

Now, Vegas (final transition): Be out there most of the first week in October. Planning on watching a lot of baseball, enjoying quality time with my best girl and playing a little in the casinos. The big project now is the sign honoring the Braves/MIB Blogosphere. What should it say? Where should we pose with it. And of course, we will post the photographic evidence of the Scribe representin’ in Sin City on the ol’ blog. Suggestions for content and photo location are welcomed; post them here and we’ll look to make it happen.

Hopefully, we’ll be putting a “Go Braves, 11 wins to the World Series title” on there somewhere. The next step on the journey to October is tonight. Until then, the Scribe abides.

—30—

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 8:05 AM | Link to this

5:45am post is NOT me!

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 8:22 AM | Link to this

Scribe I do have a suggestion for a “motto”: DOB’s blog—where nothin’ is too trivial. Now, DOB don’t come down on me. I’m talking about the “denizen’s”(and wannabees, like me)”work”, not your’s and Carroll’s.

NOTE: I take full responsibility for the content and character of this post.

                   Paladin,retired

By Joe Didly

July 16, 2007 8:55 AM | Link to this

Bring Julio back to be a hitting instructor in the minors, then when Bobby retires and they make Pendelton manager you have Julio there for your hitting coach.

By Will

July 16, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this

Loved Julio Franco in his last stint with the Braves, but he is finished, they cannot sign him. I do agree about bobby cox in the playoffs though. I would not put it past him to send Franco, Woodward, etc.. out there against a lefty in the playoffs. We have seen it before and we will see it again. Also, there comes a point with Salty where he needs to be playing much more at 1b against rightys and leftys because i can also see Bobby throwing him out there in a playoff game and having some defensive problems due to lack of experience. Playing 50 or 60 games at first in the second half would give him a lot more experience. there is no excuse not to do that, it does not get any worse then Thorman. but the bottome line is we are talking about Bobby Cox and logical decisions are not his specialty. Wickman pitching scoreless innings the last two outings is just going to give Bobby 110% confidence in him again so he can pull the rug out from under us blowing saves down the line.

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this

I did have another thought as I laid(passin those eggs is quite painful :-)) awake last night that I would like to share with the blog, while it is so slow. Maybe I fall upon my own “trivial” petard, but, oh well.

There are those that serve this country, such as CL’s late relative, who—from what I read—are honorable, brave and above reproach. But, it takes all kinds to wage war(s).

George Patton, for instance, was probably one of the biggest SOBs that ever walked the face of this planet. But, he was a good soldier. No, he was an excellent soldier. Better than Bradley, IMO. Bradley was too consumed with being liked, while all GP wanted to do was kill Germans.(Sorry, GermanBravesFan)

There is an old (bar?) toast that says, “We salute all(my bold)that serve(ed)” Notice that it is all inclusive.

I once again proffer a heartfelt salute to my fallen comrade-in-arms and wish CL solace in her(and her familes’)loss.

By regular guy

July 16, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this

Julio is my hero. He’s one month younger than me and still playing professional baseball. What an inspiration! Plus, he’s a great guy. He’ll do better when he is back where he belongs: here in Atlanta.

By Brett

July 16, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this

I would sign Julio after the 10 days as a bench player/pinch hitter, send Thorman back to Richmond, and put Salty at 1b till he proves he can’t handle it. As the trade deadline nears, Mr. Schuerholz, DO NOT even consider any deal involving Salty or Escobar…they are definitely part of the Braves future. Instead, put Andruw out there and see who may be offered for him. If you let Salty or Escobar get away, you are going to have some VERY unhappy Braves fans.

By Brett

July 16, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

I would sign Julio after the 10 days as a bench player/pinch hitter, send Thorman back to Richmond, and put Salty at 1b till he proves he can’t handle it. As the trade deadline nears, Mr. Schuerholz, DO NOT even consider any deal involving Salty or Escobar…they are definitely part of the Braves future. Instead, put Andruw out there and see who may be offered for him. If you let Salty or Escobar get away, you are going to have some VERY unhappy Braves fans.

By Shaun

July 16, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this

I guess it wouldn’t be a bad move to bring in either Franco or Conine. Certainly can’t hurt. But I don’t know how much more they could add to the offense.

BaseballReference.com has a cool split: what a hitter has done over the last 365 days.

Over the last 365 days Franco has hit .240 AVG/.329 OBP/ .304 SLG in 143 PA.

Conine has hit .269/.321/.381 in 434 PA.

Braves pinch-hitters, according to espn.com, have hit .208/.293/.254 this season.

The NL average is .219/.309/.350.

For anyone’s who’s interested, according to the basic runs created formula, so far the average NL pinch hitter is worth about 13.287 runs. Braves pinch hitters have been worth about 9.669 runs.

Of all the top six run-scoring teams in the NL, only the Brewers’ pinch-hitters have been above average in OPS.

If Franco or Conine come cheap, I don’t see a problem with getting one of them. But I don’t know if it’s worth it if it adds anything significant to the payroll. If Saltalamacchia can handle firstbase at all (as the Braves seem to think he can) that goes a long way toward solving any issues over there.

By Will

July 16, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

I totally agree about not trading Salty or Escobar, i have been pleading for that for days. There is no one worth it to trade those guys for. Andruw is a 10/5 guy, he will not agree to a trade anywhere else so that will not happen. I hate to say it cause i have been knocking him all year, but the Braves need him hitting and his defense to make the playoffs, there is no doubt about that.

By bfan54

July 16, 2007 9:33 AM | Link to this

I have been wrong on Thorman. I have run out of patience. I have a ton of respect for Julio, but, alas, the sun has set on his career. The Braves should not sign him. I concur with somebody earlier who complained about the over-the-hill (“reclamation projects” was the term he used) projects the Braves pick up. To his list Babe Ruth, Enos Slaughter, Bobby Avila, Billy Martin, Ray Boone, Zoilo Versailles and many others last tied their shoes in a Braves uniform.

With the greatest reluctance, I say no to Julio.

By SICEM

July 16, 2007 9:35 AM | Link to this

RE: Brett @ 9:24am Ditto!

By The Grinch

July 16, 2007 9:41 AM | Link to this

Morning, all. I went to the last two games; thought I’d post a couple of observations. For all you “bench Willie for KJ” folks, I reccomend you get out and watch some games in person. No, that isn’t meant as an insult; it really does make a difference in the way one views those two. Willie brings an exitement to the ballpark that this team hasn’t had in a while. He plays flat out every play, gets the crowd fired up, and makes you feel like you’ve gotten your money’s worth out of your gameday experience. Yesterday he pinch hit late in the game, stole second, scored, and finished the final out of the game by tracking down a deep fly and running full into the wall and rolling back up with the ball. No, he’s not the best player on the team, but baseball is supposed to be fun and he’s a hell of a lot of fun. KJ is an excellent player and I’m glad he’s on our team, but he seems to produce fine in the 7th hole and while productive, is almost invisible at the park. That’s good, ‘cause he doesn’t stand out as not doing his job, but until Willie starts not getting on base benching him and leading off with KJ reduces the watchabillity of this team signifigantly and to little purpose. I’m sure some stat head will pop up and tell me he walks more. Ok. Go to a game. As long as Buddy continues to pitch like he did yesterday, Davies is the only glaring, festering hole in the rotation. It shouldn’t be hard to aquire an upgrade; throw a dart blindfolded at the Myrtle Beach rotation chart and whoever it lands on will do. Big Bob came out to start the 9th jogging from the bullpen towards the mound; most of my section turned to each other to debate whether he could complete the trip at a jog. He didn’t. Renegator, there are times when the only reason I flip through here are to read posts by JJS and SJA. If you don’t like them, your mouse has a scroll feature. That’s not meant to be an insult; you asked “who cares?” I do. Sammy Sosa for 500k? My God, you people don’t think he’d be an upgrade off the bench from Woodward, who we’re paying more? Bob, just because Texas doesn’t want him doesn’t mean he isn’t worth having; Texas is the team that gave A-rod a 250 mill contract then traded him and are still paying a good bit of it so he can be a Yankee. They also finish in last place quite often. Ok, I’ll shut up now.

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

Scott Thorman is out of options, and thus, couldn’t be sent back to the minor leagues without first clearing waivers. There are other teams who’d take a flier on a rookie 1B with some legitimate pop in his bat but struggling in his first full-season in the bigs. Actually, alot of teams would; it’s his first season and many MLB teams (I think ours included, by the way) realize there’s still tremendous upside to him and that it’s quite natural for a rookie to have hitting struggles in their first full season in the Majors.

So I think we’re stuck riding out his rough start in the majors, and who knows, we may be thankful we did, down the road.

By Shaun

July 16, 2007 9:48 AM | Link to this

If you let Salty or Escobar get away, you are going to have some VERY unhappy Braves fans.

Depends on what the Braves can get.

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

(sigh)

You also can’t move Andruw anywhere because he’s in the no-trade clause portion of his career. He’s played 10 years, and at least 5 consecutive with the same team, thus the “10/5 clause” in the latest MLB collective bargaining agreement gives Andruw full veto power to any trade the Braves consider.

And in his final year of a contract before testing the free agent waters, he won’t want to go anywhere, especially considering he’s starting to hit again. Anything disrupting that would only hinder his free agency status in the offseason as he tries to cash in on a bigger contract.

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

Grinch Thanks for giving us “golden oldies” a taste of a day at the park. And I, for one, will take your word for it.

By Coach ( Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 16, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts , please don’t start with the Scott Thorman can’t be sent down garbage. He can be sent down if need be and yes he is out of options and no you don’t understand the Braves team rights when it come to managing the roster. I don’t completely understand them and anybody who hasn’t read the MLB rules book doesn’t either.

By TommyP

July 16, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this

DOB: And to think of the sarcasm you threw at people for suggesting we go get Franco. Geez…

Folks, our Hall of Fame GM isn’t going to send an Escobar or Salty for a Matt Morris. Ian Snell, perhaps. Not Morris.

Morris isn’t the pitcher he was back in the late ’90s, early 2000s. He pitches more to contact and I know I sure don’t want that type of pitcher come October.

He’s listed as 32 years old but that arm is definitely a lot older than that.

Snell, on the other hand, is a young power arm that is just getting better and better. I can see us going for him.

By Efrim

July 16, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Have to give up Salty for Snell and maybe even have to throw in Jo Jo Reyes or Matt Harrison.

Brandon Jones stats for Double A Mississippi:

.293 BA, .369 OBP, .503 SLUG, 14 HR, 71 RBI, 57 RUNS, 43 BB, 81 K’S

358 AT BATS 92 GAMES PLAYED

I wish the kid was a centerfielder. They have played him in left field all season, so I am guessing that he isn’t a major league centerfielder.

By The Grinch

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

Sorry, Y’all; that was supposed to be broken up into 4 paragraphs. Not sure what happened.

Also, Saturday’s game…it was fun to go into an hour-plus rain delay tied at 4, watch that show on Francouer’s high school heroics on the big screen (and for those who haven’t been to the Ted in a couple of years it’s a really big screen) and have Francoer come out and get the game winning walk off hit with 2 out in the bottom of the 9th. I was wearing my lucky Francoer T-shirt and it payed off (they haven’t lost at a game I’ve worn it to).

BTW, this Pirates team is not very formidable. Both games once it was clear our starter wasn’t going to implode, there was never much fear we’d lose. Even Saturday, when Yates and Soriano tried to give it away, most folks stuck around through the delay confident we’d pull it out. The ‘27 Yankees, they ain’t.

No problem, Paladin…it’s easy to forget how much fun a game is in person when you get used to the TV. Football, NASCAR, Hockey, etc. are the same way (I can’t much imagine it matters one way or the other with Golf…sorry, Bob). Baseball on the radio is more fun than the TV, IMO (as long as the announcers are good).

By Lew

July 16, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Serbok-I’m sorry Dude, but we old folks know that this “upgrade” to IPOD’s or MP3 players will eventually do nothing but destroy your hearing with all this headphone crap. Feel free to go deaf or blind watching movies on your cell phone. I’ll stick to the wall of music and my killer stereo system. If you want to carry your music collection with you wherever you go, that’s fine-I’ll leave mine at home, thank you. I have enough trouble walking as it is, I don’t need to listen to music while I do it. It’s also real nice to be able to go somewhere without having to take phone calls from people you probably don’t want to talk to anyway. I think I’ll just stick with On Star (in case I need to get in touch with someone while on the road) and XM as well as my land line-and my 31 inch TV. Sometimes it’s just nice being unconnected to the rest of the world.

By Vol

July 16, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Buster Olney talked about the Braves being one of the teams scouting Jose Contreras recently on Mike & Mike this morning. Does anyone know his contract status and pay? I’m assuming that 5-11, 5.32 won’t cost us much in terms of prospects. He’s given up a lot of runs lately, but he has gone 6+ IP in 7 of his last 10.

You’ve got to figure he’d fare a little better in the NL, and we keep Salty/Yunel. Anybody think it’s a good idea to pursue?

By jon

July 16, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

Why in the world should we give Roger Mcdowell credit for Carlyles progress? Looks to me, he was pretty darn good in AAA Richmond before the big team called him up. Maybe it’s more of a credit to the minor league pitching coach?!? As far as Mazzone, Jared Wright? He wasn’t called up, Leo had him from the get go (out of the bullpen in the playoffs) then a starter the next year. I think it’s really silly to give Roger credit until he turns a pitcher around. With that being said, I do like what Roger has done with Moylan and Yates. In my eyes, he deserves credit with that, just not with Carlyle.

By Jeff R

July 16, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

Salty has a lot more upside then “Big Swing and Whiff” Thorman. The guy’s either a back up or a platoon player. With Salty, you’ve got a guy who’s going to hit a ton. Playing 1st base, versus catching, is a career extender: not a lot of wear and tear at 1st base.

Trade Salty? Sure, if the Braves can get a young stud starting pitcher, that makes sense. But a rent-a-player or a lesser starter to try to quick-fix the rotation…that would be a waste.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 16, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

Good morning all, A few observations from the peanut gallery:

On Brian Pena and his adventures in the outfield: The deliema the Braves have with him is they are trying to find a position for him other than as a catcher. The boy can hit, just a matter of finding a place for him as they feel he has two very big roadblocks ahead of him in B-Mac and Salty as a catcher.

He is in a similar position to that of Estrada when he was with the Phillies. Jonny however had true catcher’s speed and was limited to playing behind the plate.

On knowing when to let go: Tell the Dodgers that Kirk Gibson was past his prime when he won the series for them against Oakland. Yep, it is a fine line on knowing when to hang them up and when your hanging on.

I stopped playing competitive sports when the litany of injuries began to interfere with my duties as a husband to my bride. Simply put, fainting is the brain’s way of telling the body to lie down. After pulling both hamstrings and a groin pull I said okay, that’s it.

Playing to win or playing not to lose? Often times it is more difficult for the front runner as they cannot handle the pressure. The guy doing the chasing is often free to try something different. if you don’t think this is true try to remember the times you missed those two foot putts and made the chips that went in from 30 yards.

The term choke come to mind. It’s why you want vets around to keep the rookies calm. Young ball clubs have a way of folding during August when they have a chance to think about what is happening and do exactly what the Pirates did this weekend.

By Will

July 16, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

I am going to keep posting this til my fingers fall off… why in the world would the Braves trade a top prospect, there is nobody worth it out there. This trade market this year is pathetic. What is the point of mortgaging the future with some panic trade that is not even gonna guarantee a playoff spot. Plus, teams know the Braves are desperate for pitching help and or another bat and they are not gonna give away good players for anything less then some of ATL’s top prospects. It is just that simple!!

By Efrim

July 16, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

I’d like to think Contreras wouldn’t cost much at all, but so many teams need starting pitching. I wouldn’t trade any of the following in Double A or higher for him:

LF B. Jones SS Lillibridge LHP Harrison LHP Reyes RP Devine RHP Parr 2B/SS Hernandez

Not sure if we could even get Contreras with someone else. I also wouldn’t trade any of the High A prospects for Contreras. Schafer, Kaaihue, Andrus, Campbell, Hanson, Heath, Medlen, Cuevas. So basically. We won’t get the guy.

By Shaun

July 16, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

Gil in Mechanicsville,

Yes, Kirk Gibson was only 31; past typical peak age but not so much past it that he was unproductive.

He was coming off a .277/.372/.489 season in ‘87. Even if his skills had declined a little, he still would have been a very good player. I don’t think it was difficult choice at that point as to whether Gibson would retire.

I understand your main point and agree it’s a very fine line between when to hang it up and hanging on. I just don’t think Gibson in 1988 is a good example of a player just barely hanging on. I can understand why you may think that because he was injured and was only to bat once in the Series. But he was the MVP and played in 150 games during the regular season.

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

Uh, Coach, chill with the attitude. First of all, Scott Thorman can be sent down, but not without first clearing waivers. Now, I’m not saying anybody’d trade a player to us for him, but I know there are teams who’d claim him (without having to trade a player) off waivers.

If the Braves tried to send him down, somebody would claim him, and the Braves would (more than likely) yank him from waivers and thus, he’d still be on the major league roster.

So then, tell me how he gets sent down without having to clear waivers, “Coach.”

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 16, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

We’ve got a real race on our hands which makes things more interesting for us Met fans. Last year was a little boring after the all star break. I will warn you brave fans. The Mets are getting healthier, Alou will be back in about 7-10 days. Millege is recovered and back in the bigs making conributions. Pedro is looming on the horizon maybe Duaner Sanchez may get back by the end of August. Oh and if anyone hears from LEW, tell him the Mets are still in first and that I miss him.

By Lew

July 16, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

Let’s do some comparison on Contreras. I would assume that he would be a replacement for Davies. I will put Contreras’ stats first, Davies second. W-L C. 5-11, D.4-7, ERA C. 5.32, D. 5.55, IP per start C.5.9, D. 5.4 (C pitches to two more batters per game), WHIP C.1.52, D. 1.52, K per9IP C.5.2, D.6.2, BB per 9IP, C.3.2, D. 4.3. Y’all, these numbers are pretty damn close to each other. Considering that A.Contreras is 35 (36 in Dec.) and Davies is 24, B. Contreras costs $4.5 mil the rest of the season, Davies $200,000 and C. you would have to give up players for Contreras, do you really think this is an equitable trade and one we should make? Rhetorical question, y’all-you know we shouldn’t go anywhere near it. If you are going to spend all that $$ and give up players, at least upgrade, not get more of the same mediocrity.

By TheSouthernJackAss

July 16, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

What happened Ron Roberts?—did your balls shrink at the rising of the sun?…

By DAP

July 16, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

this team is good, but there are three areas we could use some help in. i have them in order of greatest impact on the team to least impact.

1. staritng pitcher. weve had this debate for weeks. there arent guys out there that we can get without giving up salty or escobar. the more i see those guys, the more im convinced we absolutly should not trade either one of them. we would have to find someone willing to take our more tradeable peices, and teams know what we have, so i doubt they would take less. IF we get a pitcher it wont be any better than a #4 type innings eater, i think.

2. bullpen help. this has not been talked about as much, but if we arent going to get a starter, a strong bullpen is important. i think it will be much easier to get a middle relief guy for our lesser trade peices than a starter. to me, if we could get another guy that can go two or maybe three innings, like moylan or villareal, that would be wonderful. that way, when davies only goes three innings, and villareal or moylan just threw a bunch of innings because of chuck, we will have another long guy.

3. a bench player. weve talked about maybe some right handed power. i think julio would be fine and sosa would be even better. i really think sosa would make a difference, and if he could be had for cheap, it would be a great half season rental. i think wooward has been ok, hes done exactly what was expected of him. did anyone think he would hit .280? i didnt. that being said, we dont really need him. without him we still have 3 guys to play 2nd(kelly, escobar, harris) 2 to play SS (escobar, renteria) 3 to play third (chipper, escobar, harris) and none of those guys are bad offenseive players like woodward is.

i think a pretty good roster change would be this: send down thorman, and bring up pena, release wooward and sign julio. this is a great move both offensively and defensivly, because now you have 3 options at first (salty, franco, pena) 3 options at 2nd (kelley, harris, escobar) 2 options at SS (escobar, renteria) 4 options at third (chipper, harris, escobar, pena) 3 options at catcher (salty, pana, mccann) and 5 options in the outfield (Kelly, diaz, harris, andruw, frenchy)

franco should NEVER start, he would be the emergency guy, and would probably get 1 at bat per game for the pitchers spot. this would be easily done since we wouldnt have to make a trade, just pick up franco. the only weak offenseive spot in our whole roster would be franco, of we did this. we would be a force offensivly.

OR if we got sosa, just add and outfielder and take away franco as a option at fisrt, and we have the same thing. heck, sosa could probably sub at first if he had to, and he would likely provide a bit more offense. we do this, and i dont see ANY weakness offensivly. we would be scarier than the mets for sure.

to sum it up, i think the two viable options would be get a middle reliver, and get a bench player… either franco or sosa, bring up pena, send down woodward and thorman, and our team just improved by leaps and bounds.

By Efrim

July 16, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE

Duaner Sanchez is not coming back this year. That moron cost himself a year and a half because he was hungry at 3 AM. He won’t make any contributions. Imagine where your team would be if not for John Maine, Oliver Perez and Pedro Feliciano. Braves would be 5 up right now, if not more.

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

FYI, not that the advice of Steve Phillips is one I’d run to, but heard him on the Baseball Show on ESPN radio yesterday, and the concern around the bigs is that Jose Contreras has lost a good bit of velocity. His fastballs were once clocked at around 94-96 and now they’re at around 86-88.

Shoot, his last three starts he got rocked by Kansas City, Baltimore and Baltimore again. Ugh. No thanks!

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

Let me add, that mlbtraderumors.com folks say Jose Contreras did top out at 94 last night.

Here’s another question, though… with the money he’s owed on two more contract seasons, and being, uh, 36 (what he tells people his age is, anyhow)…do we add another aging arm to the roster?

By Thad Mumau

July 16, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

I say move Chipper to first and play Escobar every day at third … I know Jones has not played first base, but neither had Saltalamacchia … the only problem with this is getting the latter appreciable at-bats since that won’t happen just catching once or twice a week … but it would be a more productive lineup and would avoid platooning at second base as it never seems a good idea to shuffle middle infielders.

thad mumau, fayetteville, nc

By TheDuke

July 16, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

That sounds like a terrific idea. Let’s see if Keith Lockhart is available also.

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

SJA… I’ve never run from a confrontation with you, scat-breath. I’m just stating for a fact that the 5:45am post with my name attributed to it isn’t from me.

Go @$$-clown on somebody else. I’ve already said it wasn’t me.

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

Jarrod Saltalamacchia, a rookie, would play just about any damn where Bobby Cox asked him, just to get in the lineup. Chipper Jones…

…who came up a shortstop, moved to third, then left field, then back to third…

…has said he’s done moving around the field.

Chipper’s earned the right, after 11+ seasons in the bigs. Jarrod Saltalamacchia, after not even 11 weeks in the bigs, has not.

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 16, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Efrim, Of course the contributions of Maine, Perez and Feliziano has been great. But asking where would the Mets be without them is like saying where would the braves be without larry jones, smoltz and hudson. They wear the uniform and are expected to contribute. Oh, I don’t want to talk too highly of Perez, Maine or Sosa because LEW laughed at Met fans when it was apparent they would be in the rotation. LEW is real sensitive about being wrong and I don’t want to hurt his feelings.

By Lew

July 16, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

NoBrainZone-Yeah, I’m still here Moron, where you been? Don’t you just love that those Mets lost all of those games just so your interest would remain high?

By Efrim

July 16, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

Lew

I agree. I don’t think we should go near Contreras. The Braves are smarter than that. Apparently we had scouts at the game he pitched. Doesn’t matter though, JS isn’t that stupid.

By Braves20

July 16, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

Just catching up on the Julio and Sosa debates.

Sosa - not no but hell no. Might as well have Bonds. Sosa is right up there as a me - me - me player.

Julio - If folks like Jim Fregosi and others who scout for us say his bat speed isn’t as bad as advertised go for it. He’d be a terrific threat off the bench.

But before all of that how about an effective left arm out of the pen? The Detroit papers are saying everybody in the Tiger’s organization is laughing up their sleeve over the McBride deal. Even if he weren’t pitching better - at least he’s in the country.

By Greg in TN

July 16, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

Top ‘o the week to one and all…

It’s official. Y10K hit yesterday evening in Philadelphia in front of a national television audience. Seems there were several in the crowd at Citizen’s Bank Park with signs in tune with that eventuality. The most amusing to this blogger was the sign based on Edison’s quote “I haven’t failed, I’ve found 10,000 ways that don’t work.”

I want absolutely no part of Sammy Sosa in a Braves uniform. No thank you. He whines, he pouts, he thinks of Sammy before he thinks of the team. Not that I think the powers that be that sit in the offices at the Ted are looking at him at the moment. I also imagine Texas’ asking price for him is going to be out of line for what we are willing to offer.

I’m not of the opinion that we need to go get an outfielder right now, however if circumstances changed and we were shopping for an over 35 OF’er, I’d rather go for Griffey than Sosa, or just go with what we have now, which to me is the best option of all.

Scribe, have two suggestions for the photo of you and yours in Sin City. First would be a shot in front of the fountains at the Bellagio, and then perhaps a shot from the observation deck of the Stratosphere tower with the strip in the background. Either way, enjoy the trip and time with your spouse.

By Shaun

July 16, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

Gil in Mechanicsville,

Not trying to be a jacka— but where’s your evidence for this?: “Young ball clubs have a way of folding during August when they have a chance to think about what is happening and do exactly what the Pirates did this weekend.”

I know this is anecdotal evidence, but last season the Twins were younger than the Tigers, in fact the Twins were the youngest team in the AL in terms of average age, yet they went 49-27 in the second half of the season.

In 1991, only the Houston Astros were younger than the Braves team that stormed back from 9-1/2 games out at the break.

The Giants were older than the Braves in 1993.

Again, I know this is anecdotal but I would guess if we looked at this more in-depth talent and things like that would matter much more than age and experience as far as choking down the stretch.

By Will

July 16, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

The Braves are not going to trade for Jose Contreras and IF they did they will not be replacing Kyle Davies with him. I am not a big Davies fan, but its not like Contreras is a big upgrade or anything. That would be an awful trade. Also, any Mets fans on here that think they are going to be getting great contributions from Pedro Martinez are in for a big letdown.

By KJGold

July 16, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

I think Woodward is the new Keith Lockhart. No matter how much he sucks Cox will still play him.

By Renegator

July 16, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

SJA:

Thanks for the shout-out in your version of Old McDonald. I enjoyed seeing my name in print.

Now, Julio. I am afraid that if/when we sign him - he will just eat up Salty’s ABs. This is NOT what this team needs.

DOB:

Ever hear the Blue Dogs? They are a Carolina band (South, I think)

By Efrim

July 16, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE

Maine and Perez have been ;egit Aces this year. ERA’s under 3.00. Lets say they had ERA’s that everyone expected them to have of 3.50 and higher. The Mets would be .500. They got lucky. Give the Braves 115 million dollar payroll and we would be up 10 games on your sad team.

By Shaun

July 16, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

KJGold,

Actually Lockhart was a pretty good part-time player for the Braves. In three years he posted a .330-plus OBP and hit over .260.

By Renegator

July 16, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

Grinch:

I’m glad I read your post at 9:41 AM because it made me realize that someone else had posted under my name. The 1:25 AM post WAS NOT ME.

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

I still like, and want(in a Braves uniform)Julio. That was the way I’ve felt since we heard that the Mutts had released him, and that is the way I will feel until the Bravos re-sign him, and beyond. I don’t think Julio is “done”, I think he is “seasoned”. And, he will be a “big” improvement over some of the bench-squatters we have now.

And that, Amigos, is my story and…

By DonCoburleone

July 16, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

Article from BaseballOpinion.com

“Could the Atlanta Braves Trade for Javier Vazquez? There have been a few rumors of John Schuerholz’s interest in him before. Back in 2003, he tried to trade for Javier when he was still with the Expos. However the deal was supposedly nixed by MLB when they controlled the franchise. Rumors also floated around about a trade in 2004 the would have sent Andruw Jones to the New York Yankees for Vazquez as well. The Braves were also rumored in December 2005 to be looking at the right-hander according to a Ken Rosenthal article.

So, could Schuerholz be looking into trading for him again? According to the Chicago Tribune (thanks to MLBTR for the link) the Braves had scouts at a White Sox / Devil Rays game. Judging on the day of the report, they could have been scouting Mark Buehrle. But could they have stuck around for latter in the series to scout Vazquez as well? Analyst after analyst continue to strike down trade rumors for Ken Griffey Jr. or Mark Teixeira, citing the Braves need for another solid starter.

The Braves could conceivably give up Jarrod Saltalmachia for Vazquez as the White Sox look to eventually replace A.J. Pierzynski. The deal would most likely take another prospect with the way that Vazquez has been pitching lately. Possibly another pitcher? Maybe a Jo-Jo Reyes who was recently called up, possibly to showcase for a trade.

Vazquez would fit in nicely behind John Smoltz and Tim Hudson, sliding Chuck James to a more appropriate 4th spot in the rotation. This would leave the promising but inconsistent Kyle Davies, the mildly surprising Buddy Carlyle, and Lance Cormier to fight for the last spot.

Can Ken Williams and John Schuerholz make it work? Nineteen days left, we shall see.

By Coach ( Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 16, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Okay Mr. smarty pants (Ron Roberts) , you asked for it. A player with three full years of major league service time must pass through waivers in order to be optioned down. Thorman has less than two full seasons in the majors. That is reason one why he can be sent down. Apparently you and a lot of other so called experts have never heard of the C-A-V-E-A-T rule : if a player is on the 40 man roster for three years and never put on the major league roster in that time , he gains a fourth option year. Thorman was added to the 40 man roster in November of 2003 , he made the big league roster in 2006(last season) and because he spent all of the 04/05 seasons in the minors he was eligible for that fourth year. The Braves have options on Scott Thorman until November of 2007. Now , is anybody still confused ? I hate trying to explain this crap , it confuses me and MLB baseball deliberately intends it to be that way.

By Lew

July 16, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Efrim-Dude, We definitely agree on THIS one. NoBrainZone- If I were you, I wouldn’t go bragging on the Mets’ so much. All I’ve been saying all along is that they were playing over their heads the first 7 weeks. I was right. They’ve sucked for 7 weeks since. Look at Beltran and DelGado-Great season so far, right? As for your three beloved pitchers. Yes, I would love to have Maine on the Braves, but on May 20 (when your team began tanking), his ERA was 2.77. It’s been 3.52 over his past ten. Perez had an ERA of 2.54 on May 23, now it’s 3.13-and he just got off the DL. Don’t you hope he stays healthy and doesn’t continue his slide? Now Jorge Sosa. On May 16 he had an ERA of 2.25-now it’s 3.92 and HE just got off the DL. Every thing I’ve predicted has either come to pass (you’re not as good as your start indicated) and your pitching (which I’ve said all along was over performing) has begun it’s inevitable slide. I predicted your bullpen would be much worse than last year and it has been. I predicted your hitters weren’t that great, Beltran in particular and I was right. The only thing I haven’t been proved right on (it’s still too early) is that the Mets would finish third in the division. However, that still remains a large possibility. You blew your chance to run away with the division and now it’s coming home to roost. You’ve lost much ground to the Braves and the Phillies, with their offense are only 5 back. You can sure hear the footsteps, can’t you? Oh yeah. I also predicted before the season began that the Marlins pitching staff would end up on the DL along with Cole Hamels of the Phillies. So far, Sanchez, Olsen, Johnson and Nolasco have been on the DL for a good part of the season. Hamels is the only one who hasn’t been disabled yet. NO, I don’t know what I’m talking about, Do I?

By S T I N K Y

July 16, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

What happened Ron Roberts?—did your balls shrink at the rising of the sun?…

SJA, is that from the Old or New Testament?

By Will

July 16, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I was just about to post what you said about Lockhart. He was not that bad for a utility guy and he hit okay in the playoffs as well. That is almost a slap in the face to compare lockhart to woodward.

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Stinky You meant the old or new t-e-s-t-i-c-l-e, didn’t you?

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Coach, Scott Thorman’s been on the Braves’ 40-man roster longer than three years.

I, myself, wasn’t sure about all that a few weeks back and went through the same discussion (though I wasn’t nearly the a-hole you’re being) and DO’B cleared it up a day or so later.

Touche’ grumpy.

By S T I N K Y

July 16, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

Paladin, not sure that’s a relevent with a mule.

By ptree creek

July 16, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

Lockhart had a few okay years. He also batted under .220 two years in a row: .219 in ‘01 and .216 in ‘02. Those seem like Woodward-like numbers to me.

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

FYI, it was Dave O’Brien who ended the “is he/is he not” debate about Scott Thorman’s eligibility status, Coach, so take it (and your attitude) up with him; I’m just going on his word, as he is, after all, the Braves’ beat writer and would, you think, be up in this sorta of thing.

I took the same stances you did on this and felt fairly sure he still had options so we could send him down, and was told otherwise by one Dave O’Brien of the AJC.

And who’s comin’ off w/the “smarty pnats” smarmy attitude here, anyhow? I don’t recall labeling any of your crap (then) as “garbage.” But you wanna roll like that, it’s fair-game, “Coach.”

By Coach ( Not Drinking The Kool Aid)

July 16, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

Well , ron roberts , you obviously don’t want to believe the written facts in black in white which I laboriously laid out in finite detail. I figure things out for myself , I don’t have to be told by anybody else what is or isn’t fact or fiction.

By bravesfan

July 16, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

2 Articles from mlbtraderumors.com

How About Kevin Millar? One player who hasn’t gotten much play here at MLBTR is 36 year-old 1B/DH Kevin Millar. He’s up to a solid .282/.399/.462 on the season, including a 1.063 OPS this month. Millar might be one of the few players who exhibits a consistent second half trend. He’s been significantly better after the break in 2004, 2005, and 2006.

Millar has a mere $1.2MM left on his contract this year. His $2.75MM option for ‘08 becomes guaranteed with 475 plate appearances, and he’s on pace for about 500 right now. He’ll probably pass the 130 game threshold, bringing his ‘08 salary to $3.05MM. Very affordable for solid production and clubhouse presence.

The Yankees would be a logical destination for Millar. Sean Casey has come alive since a terrible April, so the Tigers probably wouldn’t be interested. The Twins would be a fine fit at DH. Angels or Mariners too. Over in the NL Millar could help the Braves or Diamondbacks at first base.

All Eyes On Contreras Buster Olney says that Jose Contreras may be the best available starting pitcher at the moment, which speaks to how weak the market is. Olney lists the Cubs, Braves, Marlins, Indians, and Phillies as teams on hand to watch his six inning, five run performance Sunday night in Baltimore.

To call Contreras the best available indicates that Javier Vazquez is off the market. Contreras’s challengers still include Matt Morris, Dontrelle Willis, and Jason Jennings. If the Pirates were to inexplicably consider trading Ian Snell, he’d easily jump to the forefront. That he’s even available is a dubious rumor at this point.

As for Contreras, his junk might work over in the NL. Maybe that’s why four of the five teams watching his start reside in that league. Olney’s scout said he was working at 87-91, though he did touch 94 last night.

Contreras makes another $4MM this year, $10MM in ‘08, and another $10MM in ‘09. That shouldn’t scare off too many clubs. Maybe the Marlins. With a 2-4% chance at making the playoffs this year the Marlins would be acquiring Contreras more for 2008-09.

By Will

July 16, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

ptree creek, No arguing that, but that was the end of his run in ATL, he was very productive a few years before that. He just brought a lot of intangibles to the table. If a runner needed moved over he got it done, etc… At the same time i guess Woodward is near the end of his career too he has had better years then this. Although the bottom line is Woodward is pathetic anymore.

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

Stinkerino Since we all were taken to task the other day for not comin’ to SJA’s defense, in his absence, do not assume I am on your side, in this. To the contrary…

By Jared

July 16, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

One day in the backroom at Turner Field:

Yunel Escobar: See these Mr. Cox?

Bobby Cox: Where did you get those photos? I was young!

Yunel Escobar: Doesn’t matter. Now you listen to me and listen good. I’m going to get more playing time. I know Kelly has a better OBP and more homerun power and I know my OBP is below league-average at .336, and I know I never had any power in either the majors or the minors, I know my OPS+ is 97, I know I’ve never been good at stealing bases and I’ve been caught stealing 50% of the time since my call-up and I know my .951 fielding percentage really sucks, but you’re going to at least platoon me. And you’re going to say you can’t not play me I’m so good. Rave about my good batting average and spunk. Got it, Mr. Cox?

Bobby Cox: This is what Keith Lockhart did.

Yunel Escobar: Yeah, he gave me these photographs.

By DonCoburleone

July 16, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

Man I would love to get Vasquez… But I think Reyes and Saltalamacchia is a bit too much unless we can get the White Sox to eat half (or more) of Vasquez’s remaining salary…. Now before everyone starts screaming bloody murder about what a ridiculous proposal that is just think about this: Vasquez is signed through 2010 and would ensure a Smoltz-Hudson-Vasquez-James rotation for at least the rest of this season plus 2008 and 2009… Salty is going to be very good, but remember this guy we’ve got behind the plate already? I think his name is Brian McCann? And Jo Jo Reyes could turn out to be great and he could turn out to be average. Lets face it, young lefty prospects with a 89-91MPH fastball are a dime a dozen in this league, and unless he can learn to spot his pitches like Glavine Reyes will never be more than a #3 or 4 starter. I would pull the trigger on a Salty/Reyes for Vasquez trade if we could get the White Sox to pay half of Vasquez’s remaining salary…

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

bravesfan: There you go shouting again. I thought Braveheart made it quite clear the other day that that is not necessary on this blog.

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 16, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Back from luch……Lew, you’re full of crap. All your predictions haven’t come true. I never thought for a moment that Maine, Perez or Sosa would finish the season 20-4 with an era of 2.60, but what they have done to this point exceeds anything you would have predicted you’re just not man enough to admit that. Still with all their problems and injuries they are still better than the braves. Also, I know you and the rest of the brave fans are praying that Pedro doesn’t come back strong from the DL because you know it and so do I, The braves won’t catch the Mets if he does. Just picture Pedro, Glavine, Maine, Perez and Sosa. That’s a rotation that will be pretty tuff down the stretch. Oh, The bullpen seems to have gotten itself together over the last several weeks. Go check their numbers “STATBOY”, you won’t like what you find.

By Will

July 16, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

Lets add Javier Vasquez to the list of pitchers the Braves have no business trading great young talent for! What would be the ultimate result of adding any of these guys to the team? Would the Braves win the World Series? Since when did just making the playoffs and mortgaging the future to do it become the goal. I am not remotely trying to be a jerk, i am just wondering if people really think these guys would push the Braves to the World Series win because it is not worth it if not.

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

I’m goin’ to eat and take my power nap. If I fail to respond to some barb it’s not that I am not quick enough; it’s that I ain’t here!

By journalist jimmy smith

July 16, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

everyone is all testy on here today - a product of the ugly stinky blogger promoting disharmony - and posting as others.

same behavior as before. damaging the blog as before. imposing ugly stinky self on others.

insulting the ministers on this blog - as well as the journalists. the use of many names allows the ugly stinky blogger to have “persons” with whom ugly stinky can blog. no one would blog with ugly stinky otherwise. meltdown. meltdown. aarrgghhh!

and scribe, that discussion of toes was well-timed. journalist has failed this blog over the past few days because there has been little talk of toes. toes are to be discussed but not to be trifled with.

another injury to consider - deer tick disease. can get it while a huntin’. 15 day d.l. easy.

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 16, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Efrim, Before you talk about salaries, go check what Maine, Perez and sosa are getting paid. It’s funny hearing a braves fan complain about payroll. When Ted Turner was doing for the braves it never was an issue.

By Fred CT

July 16, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

Paladin, why don’t you try getting out of the jackasses a$$ and stand up for what you believe in for a change. I also am tired of the southernjackasses tirades and hope the jackal drives him crazy. As for you Paladin, quit kissing up to everybody and grow some balls yourself. You’re looking pretty pathetic. Remember what Renegator said jackass, BASEBALL TALK. I would like to hear one good comment from the jackass about baseball. Otherwise jackass you need to google jackass blog and go show everyone on that blog how stupid you are.

By Efrim

July 16, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE

Mota, Heilman, Schoenweis, and Joe Smith aren’t reliable. Joe Smith numbers might be nice, but in close and late situations, he has been poor. Feliciano and Wagner are the only reliable relievers you have.

Maine and Perez will come back down to Earth. They will not finish with ERA’s of 2.97 and 3.13. Not a chance.

The offense might get better to compensate, but the Mets have a tougher second half schedule than the Braves do. Not to mention, the Braves are 6-3 against the Mets this year. If the Mets don’t show up against the Braves in the final nine and go 3-6 again, they will find themselves out of the playoffs.

Final Records:

Mets 90-72

Braves 92-70

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

Good, Coach. You go w/that. Meanwhile, the Braves still have Thorman in the bigs, for some reason. You believe what you will, and I’ll go w/what the Braves’ beat writer’s told us.

By sharknamedpeppy

July 16, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Let Salty start at first base and send Thorman down to the minors to work on his swing. He’s obviously not ready for the bigs yet. Then he can play everyday and still give McCann a rest behind the plate.

By JasonInMaine

July 16, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

From Buster Olney’s Blog (in progress):

“But re: The Braves, if they added Contreras, I’d pick them to win the NL East, from here on out. I think he would be better suited for the NL.”

Now, I don’t like a lot of ESPN personalities, but I like Buster along with Peter Gammons. But, I had to admit; I am not sure I see the logic in Contreras. Lew provided numbers that really indicate there isn’t much of a difference. Of course, Contreras is pitching in the AL and has postseason experience…

Olney also states that he doesn’t expect the White Sox to be able to get more than a B- prospect for him.

Who do we have that would be considered a B- prospect? Shaun, DOB, other informed denizens?

Regards,

Jason

By Mac

July 16, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

DOB In a chat today on ESPN, Buster Olney said he would pick the Braves to win the division if they land Jose Contreras. Have you heard anything about the Braves pursuing him? What would it take to land him? Olney said Contreras would be a better pitcher in the NL. Do you agree? Thanks

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

July 16, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

As much as I like Julio Franco, I just don’t think he is the answer at 1B. A guy like Kevin Millar would be nice. Despite the fact that Julio would be dirt cheap I just don’t see him being able to platoon at 1B. Now,if they just want to strenghten the bench and get rid of Chris Woodward, then by all means I say make the move. Woodward has got to go!

By Efrim

July 16, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Matt (VA): Are the Braves going to make any major moves soon? Are they the favorites in the NL East?

Buster Olney: (1:34 PM ET ) Matt: For the record, I picked the Phillies to win the division, and I should stand by that pick until the Phils are eliminated. But re: The Braves, if they added Contreras, I’d pick them to win the NL East, from here on out. I think he would be better suited for the NL.

Jason in Maine,

I agree. I worry about Buster. Is he feeling okay? Honestly. Contreras putting us over the hump in the NL East? HE IS 5-11 WITH A 5.30 ERA. Come on. Vasquez maybe, but not Contreras.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave, yes, Bobby definitely has say in trades, in terms of giving his opinion on whether it’s a guy he wants, who would fit in with the Braves, etc. I’d say he’s got more input in trades and free-agent acquisitions than he does in call-ups, though he’s got plenty in that area, too.

He’s got a LOT of say in trades and free agency.

Serbok, glad you enjoy your technology, bro. Don’t quite understand your zeal in trying to convince others to enjoy faceless, downloaded singles in such disposable fashion as you, but hey, I certainly don’t care how you take your tunes, my man. Enjoy.

Speaking of tunes (the real kind, the kind you purchase on CDs or records), I just played two CDs this morning that I keep meaning to recommend: “A Strange Education” by The Cinematics, a Scottish alt-rock band who cite influences (Clash, Talking Heads) that can be heard in their music, though I’d compare them more to recent bands like We Are Scientists, Snow Patrol, etc, but better).

And again, the incredible, hard-to-find CD by James Hand, who sounds so much like the original Hank Williams, it’s kinda eery. Get it. Go online and see if you can find it or listen to it (Serbok, I don’t think it’s available at any of the faceless download centers, but you might try).

Also, this best of Buck Owens CD I picked up is obviously outstanding. And Bob Wills … talk about oft-overlooked country by today’s fans. You guys have to check into old Bob. A legend, rightfully so, among true country fans.

By tkg

July 16, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

I saw bravesfan’s post regarding the rumor of Kevin Millar being on the block. I still think he would be the best of the “cheap” 1B options — both in terms of prospect(s) and money — available to help the Braves. The dude hits both righties and lefties and would be a good platoon mate with Salty, plus give us a solid pinch-hit option on days he doesn’t start.

Adding Millar plus a reliever and/or starter (if decent one becomes available) would be great in my mind.

A lot can change in 15 days, but I’m thinking we won’t be able to get a decent starter b/c other teams will ask too much for mediocre guys (i.e. Salty, Escobar, etc. for Contreras or Jennings-type). Contreras would be OK, under the right circumstance. If we gave up a C-plus to B prospect, it would be OK to take a flyer on him in my mind. Maybe Kenny Williams will get desperate to pull the trigger as the deadline gets closer and accept less than grade A prospects for him.

However, I do think there is a better chance a flood of decent relievers becoming available in the next two weeks and we could really use another power-type arm back there.

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 16, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

All these Guru’s(LEW & Efrim) making predictions. I’ll just wait til the season plays out to say “I told you so”. The Mets are getting healthy and that’s bad news for the braves. There’s still 2 1/2 months of baseball. The whold story has yet to be told.

By DonCoburleone

July 16, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

I would actually love to add Contreras, but hes still owed $20mil after this season. Just don’t see how we would be able to afford him without the Sox eating a bunch of his salary…

By Lee

July 16, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

I am starting to like Cox’s judgment this year. Sorry Johnson has a good OBP but Escobar is by far the more exciting player and things seem to happen when he is on the bases - Escobar is our future 2nd baseman and Salty should be our future 1st baseman. If we need another pitcher is needs to come at the low cost value in terms of a trade.

By Lee

July 16, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

In reality the Mets fans thought the division would have already been wrapped up by now by their team. The Braves fans have to be more enthusiastic now than Mets fans. Actually it is nice now to have that pressure of the Braves back to keep the divisional title winning streak alive,. This year is starting to remind me of 1991all over again.

By JasonInMaine

July 16, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

DonC,

I agree…I would much rather have Vazquez than Contreras. I wonder what type of prospect(s) it would take to get him. But, I still think the Braves are going to make a run at Arroyo.

Regards,

Jason

By Shaun

July 16, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

JasonInMaine,

I would guess the White Sox would take a couple of prospect outside the cusp of the top 8-10 prospects a decent organization has to offer to get rid of Contreras. Of course, they’d like more and I’m guessing they’ll try to milk whatever they can get from a desperate organization.

My guess is they’ll end up getting two such prospects possibly from the Braves but who knows. DOB has said or implied the Braves are exploring any and all options for more pitching.

I think Conteras would be a risk worth taking as long as they didn’t have to give up too much in terms of money or players.

By Lucas...

July 16, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

I just came across this blog after taking over for someone at work. He reads this blog all the time.Being I am new here, and most of you fans actually seem to know a little about the game, I will participate.

It seems to me that in any trade for a pitcher, kyle davies would atleast have to be mentioned. What else would we do with him? Personally, I think he is coming around but I don’t want to jinx him with his start tonight. No one has said anything about him in trade rumors. I have noticed that alot of teams(including the Braves) still see him as a pitcher with alot of upside and I agree. I think he would be a major bargaining chip for a proven starter. I mean he is a 23, almost 24 year old pitcher with great stuff just no heart(or other body parts you would like to call his ‘lack’ of something…)

It seems that the braves would want to bring julio back just because he adds alot of experience and leadership that this team SOMETIMES needs. I would much rather have a conine type player to come off the bench, but to each his/her own.

The bottom line is the market is so thin that I would rather the braves make no trades, go to church everyday the place is open and pray that Carlyle and Davies pitch halfway decent than trade one or both of the young stars to get a mediocre pitcher. That just doesn’t make sense.

Last thing. It really is funny how many people here can’t read or just don’t listen when it comes to trading andruw…. I saw all the post explaining why he can’t be traded and still people want it to…it’s humorous.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

For what it’s worth, Conine and Millar are both top-notch clubhouse guys who’d fit in great with Braves in that regard. Millar’s not much defensively, but certainly no worse, and actually better, than the D they’ve got from the first-base position this season. Also, he can play some LF, not very well, but serviceable.

Conine’s much better defensively, but Millar’s a helluva hitter when he’s right, when he’s on one of his good runs.

Millar and Conine both would love to play for Cox and the Braves. Millar told me as much a year or two ago.

By GOD

July 16, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, do not question Coach. I made him in my image and he shares my knowledge. To question him is to blaspheme me.

By DonCoburleone

July 16, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

NO CHOP the Mets are going to fold under the pressure of a September pennant race, just like they did in years past. Remember when you guys folded in 1999 and propelled Chipper to the MVP? In 2000 we beat you by 1 game, and 2001 by 6 games. You guys won the division last year cuz no one was within 10 games of you in September. This year its different, and the Mets will show their true colors (yellow) come September. Just keep rooting for the Padres, Cubs, and Dodgers to lose so you might be able to sneak into the wild card…

By Efrim

July 16, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Contreras is owed 24 million for the rest of this season until the end of 2009. If the White Sox eat 14 million of the remaining 24 million, than I would consider giving a grade B prospect for him. Even so, teh White Sox aren’t going to eat THAT much for him. That is a lot of money to eat for him, and if we were sending someone like Lillibridge, I would expect they wouldn’t eat any money for the guy.

By Salty

July 16, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Lucas

Nice post/insight.

As to your observation on Andruw: his trade status is to this blog what the “infield fly rule” is to Skip Caray!

Scott Thorman’s options status is a close second…apparently!

By lewisholt

July 16, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

You wait the 10 days and sign him for $150,000. Its a no brainer.

By Jared

July 16, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

How absurd does that sound? “Kelly Johnson’s OBP is better, but Escobar is exciting!” Whoop-de-frickin-do. Every indicator says Johnson is superior to Escobar.

As for “future second baseman”, I hope you only mean near-future. Escobar’s showcasing is obvious and I’d bet money he ain’t a Brave come the first day of August.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 16, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

oh the humanity. now have to talk about baseball on this blog? journalist and baby seal no nothing about baseball. all journalist no how to do is make fun of the way chipper talks!!! and the southern jackass is picking fights that he can’t win. has the jackass lost his marbles??? and someone talk about my marbles last night. oh the humanity. it looks like journalist will have to pick a better wing man than the jackass. jackass is too weak. journalist have to protect himself and baby seal. oh it is of no use. better to side with the jackals. the humanity!!!!!

By Shaun

July 16, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I’ve heard the whispers that the Braves may be interested in Tiexiera but I just can’t see that happening. Do you see any way it could happen? Seems like the only way that’s likely is if they know Andrew is gone and they are going to trade a guy like Tim Hudson.

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

I’d like to see the Braves pick up Kevin Millar, personally. Conine wouldn’t be the end of the world, or a waste of money, either, but in a perfect world, Millar would be better for our offense.

That being said, what would the Orioles want from Atlanta for him? I don’t think Yunel Escobar’s worth him, personally, but I’m betting they have to look at their SS situation and wonder what’ll be done there post-Tejada.

By ssiscribe

July 16, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

In reference to DonC’s post above — talking about the 1999 season and how Chipper slammed the Mets en route to the NL MVP award — do you folks realize that Chipper is making one heck of a case for MVP this season.

Since coming off the disabled list last month, Chipper is hitting .390. His .335 average is tied for third in the NL. He is third in OBP (.424), third in slugging percentage (.596) and second in on base plus slugging (1.020). So far in July, he’s hitting .364, after hitting .411 in June after coming off the disabled list June 13.

And, is there anybody out there who would argue the Braves are a different team with Hoss batting third and playing third every time? If Hoss stays healthy and keeps playing the way he’s performed, and the Braves make it to the playoffs, Chipper’s got to be among the favorites for MVP.

—30—

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 16, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

DONC, I guess you would know about breaking under the pressure since the braves did that 13 out of the 14 years in the playoffs and could pull off a world title only once. I’ll be looking for you when the Mets clinch the division.

By Shaun

July 16, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

I don’t know. The White Sox are done. If they could get at least a couple of young, cheap guys that they believe can be solid major leaguers, they may be willing to pay half of Contreras’s contract.

Why keep an older guy that isn’t going to help you long-term, even if you do have to pay something on the remainder of his contract if you can get some cheap contributers for next year and/or beyond?

By Greg in TN

July 16, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Can’t say I’d be disappointed with either Millar or Conine either, DOB.

I’ve heard that Millar is a great clubhouse guy and the guy’s had success in Florida and Boston. Only question I have is what Angelos would want for him.

We may have an easier time of it dealing with the Reds for Conine. To me, I think Krivsky and Allen would be willing to part with him for less than what Angelos would likely want for Millar.

By Ron Roberts

July 16, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry, No Chop, how did the Mets’ post-season end last year?

By JasonInMaine

July 16, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

Thanks for the response. I was trying to categorize A+, A-, B-, etc prospects. To me, Salty and Escobar are both A prospects. I was interested to see what people more familiar with such things would view people such as B. Jones, Holt, Loadenthal, Jo Jo, Elvis, Lillibridge, etc. Just trying to get a feel for what a “B-” prospect would be…

Regards,

Jason

By DAP

July 16, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Lucas… i dont know how long you have been reading the blog, but if you just started today, i have to commend you for your bravery. maybe you havent seen enough of the blog yet, but when newcomers post right away, it can get ugly at times. when i started, i just read for the first month or so, and then i only ventured out to say things like… “great game by smoltzie tonight” and stuff like that.

welcome to the blog, lucas…

By Efrim

July 16, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE

And if the Braves clinch, you won’t show. So it is all pointless.

By JasonInMaine

July 16, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

I think Millar would be a great addition to the team, especially if the Braves can’t make a “big” move.

I know I am dreaming, but if the Braves were able to get Millar and Vazquez…

Regards,

Jason

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

Stinkerino If I had a moniker like your’s I would “jackal” other people’s too. Bye bye a*******jackal.

By DAP

July 16, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

ssiscribe i agree with you about chipper, he is a force, and i personally think he will end the season with a batting title. i would love to see him be MVP, however, barring a major collapse, i think that the first baseman currently known as prince fielder is a shoe-in for MVP.

By Efrim

July 16, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

I have to think that the Braves are also going to go after a reliever. Octavio Dotel anyone??? Otsuka would cost too much. Dotel might be the reliver we need to give Soriano and Yates some rest.

By Lucas...

July 16, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

DAP:

Thanks. I was a little worried about it but I figured if i didn’t go into the stupid, “what can we get for andruw” or something else equally absurd I would be ok

By DonCoburleone

July 16, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

“DONC, I guess you would know about breaking under the pressure since the braves did that 13 out of the 14 years in the playoffs and could pull off a world title only once. I’ll be looking for you when the Mets clinch the division.”

Clever, did you think of that one all on your own? Just wondering because I’ve never heard that from a Mets fan before… And when did I bring up the postseason in my argument anyway? I was talking about winning the pennant jag-off. And please, tell me, what exactly have the Mets done 13 of the last 14 years??? Anything? Bueller? Bueller?

By JasonInMaine

July 16, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

I wouldn’t be opposed to bringing in Dotel if the price was right. Plus, he has experience closing and pitching in tight situations which is an obvious plus.

Regards,

Jason

By ssiscribe

July 16, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

DAP: Prince gets my vote this afternoon. But if the Brewers were to fade down the stretch and the Braves surge into the playoffs, I think Chipper’s got a heck of a shot at MVP.

For what it’s worth: I still think, if they can get their pitching straightened out, the Cardinals got a shot in that division. I just don’t think the Cubs have the horses to run to the finish line. Do the Brewers have the experience to handle a pennant race? Time will tell. Love Ned Yost and would love to see that city and that franchise get to the postseason for the first time since Harvey’s Wallbangers lost to the Cards in seven games in the 1982 World Series …

A World Series the Braves missed by three games, having been swept by the Cards in that year’s NLCS.

Where were we? Oh yeah, MVP this year. Prince has been king so far, but if Chipper keeps raking and the Braves keep winning, he’ll have a shot.

—30—

By DonCoburleone

July 16, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Hey did anyone see Blaine Boyer yesterday for AAA Richmond? He threw a pretty good game - 6IP, 2ER’s, 7SO’s, 3BB’s… Definately something there, he just needs to cut down on his walks…

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

And bye the bye,No Chop Zone, troll money doesn’t spend on here. So, before you make any bets, you will need a cashiers check and at least one responsible adult to verify it, and you.

By Shaun

July 16, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

Jared,

Kelly Johnson looks to be the better player right now, at least offensively. But you have to keep in mind Escobar is a year younger (not insignificant in the world of baseball) and his future is most likely as a shortstop so he doesn’t have to hit quite as much there. Plus he’s hit well in the minors, so all indications are he’s going to be a fine major league player.

Not saying Johnson should not be playing everyday or that Escobar is better and is going to be better. But the Braves have to weigh how much longer Edgar is going to be here and other things before just dumping Escobar for a veteran that may only provide minimal help.

By ppaddy123

July 16, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

as we all know, opinions are like azzholes; everyone has one. Here’s mine. I know we need another quality starter, but then, so does everyone. There are only a few MLB teams that have 3 studs in their starting rotation. Also look and see how much these guys are getting paid. Every rumor mill has just about every team looking for pitching. Think about it this way…do you really want to give up a top prospect for a Contreras or Vasquez or Arroyo? Those boys have been rode hard and put up wet. Are they improvements over what we have? No, they just cost more. I like the team we put on the field. It has chemistry. These guys feed off one another. We do need to up-grade 1st base. Thorman’s not getting it done. Salty needs a chance to play everyday. There was some question about sending Thorman back down because he would have to clear waivers……and? If someone claims him, what are they getting? A Ryan Klesco clone. They would do us a favor and free up a roster spot. Plus, I think we get some kind of compensation draft pick. And if he does clear waivers, we send him back to AA, feed him some bananas, and shorten that swing. Teach him that he only needs to hit it 400 ft, not 500 ft every at bat. Now for you guys bashing on Chris Woodward. Why in the world would anyone get rid of a utility infielder that plays ALL 4 INFIELD POSITIONS? I think the problem most of you guys have with him is he’s not “too flashy”. He’s a blue color guy and Bobby Cox loves guys like him. Bringing in Julio Franco (loved him when he was a Brave) makes no sense to me now. It is true he is like another coach on the bench. I’m sure he is a great mentor to the young latin players, but we already have that spot filled by another great player….Edgar Renteria, perhaps you’ve heard of him? We also have Eddie Perez down in the bullpen. I think the Bravos should hire Julio as an assistant hitting coach to Terry Pendleton. He could work with Andruw exclusively. Teach him to hit to the opposite field. Many more hits hits to the opposite filed. I’ve seen the “Dog Whisperer” and he says you can teach an old dog new tricks. In fact old dogs want to learn new tricks; they just don’t realize it. So to summerize: don’t trade the farm for pitching that does not exist; send Ryan Klesco…opps Thorman down to work on that Titanic swing of his; get off Woodward’s back; and Julio, I really like you as a coach. I’d like you better if you could teach Andruw how to be a complete ballplayer.

By P-Town Brave

July 16, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

If we want Millar, I say send Loadenthal and Nix from Double-A…fits 2 needs on the O’s and doesn’t have us mortgaging the farm…Although, does this mean we platoon Salty as a LHH and bench Thorman for good?

If we want Vazquez, I say we try to bit on sending Diory Hernandez who can play 2b and SS, Brayan Pena, and Eric Campbell, for the thought that they’ll want prospects for future gains, and in hopes that they’ll know they already have decent pieces to compete in 08 w/ Pena being able to catch and Diory maybe being able to compete for a job at 2b or ss

By Shaun

July 16, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

JasonInMaine,

Oh, yeah. I’m not sure exactly. I’m guessing it’s roughly as you would intuit; A’s are guys that are likely to become superstars, stars or very good regulars. B’s are guys who have a decent shot of making something of themselves at the major league level but haven’t shown superstar or star potential.

I don’t really know because I haven’t done much research into scouts’ and organizations’ ratings, although it does seem very interesting.

By JasonInMaine

July 16, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

From MLB.com:

“The Boston Globe reported that contenders are watching the Astros to see if they’ll hold a fire sale if they deem themselves out of postseason contention. The report indicated the Mets are “trying like crazy” to deal for Roy Oswalt, and the Red Sox will likely attempt to do the same.”

I know this has been talked about before, and DOB has mentioned the budget issues regarding fitting Oswalt into the roster, but Oswalt is one of the few starters that I would deal Salty for (if we could afford him). I hope the Muts don’t get him!!!

Regards,

Jason

By Joe Schmoe

July 16, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

Olney said earlier that the Royals would definitely move Greinke for the right price. The question is what is the price?

I mean, he’s your young arm to control for a while. I know he’s a headcase, but watching him last weekend throw a 98 MPH fastball past a Cleveland Indian one pitch after dropping a 71 MPH hammer on him wasn’t too bad.

On the other hand, why wouldn’t a team like the Royals be wanting to hold onto a kid like that unless they knew something about him.

He’s been pitching out of the pen the last couple months so he doesn’t exactly fit the bill for the starter we need this year. Just throwing it out there looking for feedback.

By P-Town Brave

July 16, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Hey No Chop

Is that why your team “choked” last year in the NLCS and was beaten by a team w/ 83 wins in a Game 7 where you were at home and had every possible piece in place and couldn’t get the job done?

Oh…what was that Carlos Beltran…?

Oh…that was curve ball strike three looking…

Couldn’t even get the bat off his shoulder…

Care to let me refresh your memory what happened when we met you in 1999 in the playoffs…?

Following intentional walks to Chipper Jones and Brian Jordan, Rogers walked Andruw Jones on a 3-1 pitch to score Williams and win the pennant for Atlanta.

**Kenny Rogers high and outside…

Doesn’t that still give you nightmares Met fan or is it now YADI YADI YADI!**

By Coach(creditability reduced to zero)

July 16, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Lew and I were both schooled thoroughly on the Thorman being out of options scenario by various people including DOB, Kenny Rosenthal and DavidATL14.

Lew, at least had the good sense to admit his mistake and move on. I though on the otherhand enjoy being the blog assclown, and spouting off just to hear myself talk.

Incorrect info does nothing to slow me down, I enjoy looking foolish on a daily basis.

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

ppaddy123 Maybe we could get the dog “whisperer” to work with P-Town Brave on his SHOUTING :-)

By Arkansas Hillbilly

July 16, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

I’m calling B.S. on the 2:32 post being the real JJS. Doesn’t read like the Esteemed Journalist. Not even close.

By ernesto

July 16, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

New blog is up.

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

How does “Coach(Creditability Reduced to Zero)” get away with a-s-s-c-l-o-w-n and I get censored when I attempt to say a-$-$-jackal? How about some consistent enforcement here?

By TheSouthernJackAss

July 16, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

Since those at AJC and DOB continue to sit there with their thumbs up their @$ses and do absolutely nothing to stop the identity thieves who are hijacking this blog, even after DOB’s numerous statements to the effect that identity theft would not be tolerated under any circumstances…TheSouthernJackAss no longer wishes to contribute ‘page hits’ to this site…nor to participate in any fashion…

Furthermore, TheSouthernJackAss would never personally associate himself with some of the narrow-minded, simple-minded, and overbearing ilk that comprise this forum on a daily basis…thus, I won’t be a part of that group here either…

TheSouthernJackAss has become bored with reading the same ol’ stale comments that are being posted here day to day, and tired of most of those doing the posting…time to move on…

AJC may not concern themselves with those who hijack my identity, nor care, but I do…consequently, unlike previous statements of mine to the effect that TheSouthernJackAss is leaving the blog forever…this time I mean it…and that you can bet on!…

By Salty

July 16, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

Arkansas Hillbilly Agree…doesn’t fit the m.o.

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 16, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

P-Town, Efrim and DonC, we can go on and on bringing up the past. Like during the eighties when the braves were the laughing stock of baseball….remember?. Anyway, I’ll do my part to keep it on the present. We do lead the NL East and as of right now the braves don’t worry me. I think the Mets have gotten over the toughest part of their schedule and will get things going. The Mets were down right bad over the last 25-30 days and the braves could not capitalize on it. If I were a braves fan that would worry me. The Mets are getting healthier and when all the parts are back together will prove they are the best team in the National League…….You’ll see.

By P-Town Brave

July 16, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Well…sorry for the so called shouting, but anyone want to take a stab at my trade proposals…

I always love hearing why certain individuals think they won’t work…

But please, this time if you’re going to shoot them down, at least explain why and make it seem logical and not just bc that trade sucks!

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

I’m calling B.S. on the 2:32 post being the real JJS. Doesn’t read like the Esteemed Journalist. Not even close.

That’s not the only one, Hillbilly. Fred CT and Ron Roberts, among others have also been ‘jacked today. It’s sort of like walking through a pasture. You have to watch carefully where you step.

By ppaddy123

July 16, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

One comment on the Oswalt situation. Why give up a player to rent him for the rest of the year? He’s already stated he would like to play for the Braves (as heard on the Mark Lemke show). Let the Mutts mortgage the farm for one player. It’s what they’re good at. we can sign him longterm in the off season.

I think we can win the division playing .600 baseball the rest of the year. The Mutts are at best a .500 team down the stretch, regardless of what their impotent fans that post in here would like us to believe. We have the easier 2nd half schedule. Everything I look at points in favor of the Braves.

By DAP

July 16, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

well put, scribe, we shall see.

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Stinkerino Since SJA doesn’t appreciate my support and is leaving(for the…oh, who’s counting?), and has, once again, insulted me and some of my friends, I guess I will side with you, after-all. You go, girl!

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Goodbye SJA and good riddance!

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

Goodbye SJA and good riddance!

By P-Town Brave

July 16, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

I’m real confused here No Chop…aren’t you just now going on your West Coast w/ 7 games against the top 2 teams in the West?! You also go to Milwaukee and Chicago at the beginning of August where we have already been and you still have 9 against us and we’ve kicked your *! Your only luck is that your last 14 of the season are against the bottom feeders.

Not to suggest that we will run away w/ this thing, but we still have home & homes w/ SF, STL, CIN, and HOU in the next month.

I suggest you look into that before you go punching your playoff ticket just yet!

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Goddbye SJA and good riddance!

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Guess which one of those 4:07 & 4:08 posts are mine. Hell, the dumb bustard doesn’t even know how to work the “post” button. Also, he probably thinks a wheelbarrow is a piece of precision machinery.

By ppaddy123

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

You see Braves faithful, it’s guys like NO CHOP ZONE that come in here on a daily basis and try to “swing their member at us” hoping we’ll be convinced to give up our convictions. The problem is it’s too short and too limp. The Braves are the one team in the NL east that scares the crap out of the Mutts. That’s right!!! WE SCARE THE CRAP OUT OF THE MUTTS! Deal with it.

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Goddbye SJA and good riddance!

No religion allowed on here. And I’m sure that SJA is still one of God’s children.

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

Forgive me, chrisKLOB but in my 4:17 I should have said “is” instead of “are”. That’s not just pickin’ at nits; it is very important to what I wanted to say!

By Chase

July 16, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

There’s something left in Julio, even if he’s the only one Andruw will listen to in in-your-face-Spanish. The Braves fans who love him will buy tickets enough to make up for his salary. I say he’ll hit 265/270 off the bench and use his sweet glove in the late innings.

Woodward—Ticket and “good luck.” Thorman—Trade or AAA/AA

By Aaron Egnor

July 16, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

As long as they don’t bring back Brian Jordan I don’t care what they do to shore up the bench. I’d rather have Biff Pocoroba back before Jordan….

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

Aaron Egnor I’ll drink to that! But, at this time of day I’d drink to a trainwreck. :-)

By Paladin

July 16, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

Good bye. Good luck. And, Goodnight. Paladin is staggering out of the bldg. C’y’all in the am.

By bobby cox

July 16, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

Coach (Im a f*** moron) p** me off

By Johnny Evans

July 18, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this

All his chatter==does nothing =Davies and Thorman would look good on a Greyhound BUs heading for Mytle Beach. Johnny

By bob

July 18, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

If the Braves intend to replace at least the bat of Andruw, then they need to look at Texeira. Even though he isn’t the center fielder they can’t find at a decent price the RBI’s and batting average will be even up. Willie can play center for a while until a solid rookie becomes available.

By steve

July 18, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

I’m a Met fan and believe me when I tell you that Julio wasn’t as bad as some of my fellow Met fans think he was. I mean he did bat around .270 as a PH this year so I don’t know how much you can ask from him. One warning though, he has no power whatsoever and he can not pull a ball. That much is true.

By Bobbymahlon

July 19, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

How come nobody else wants Julio and we sign him instead of some younger promising stud.

By HTCleveland

July 20, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Did we forget Javy Lopez. He wants to play baseball with Atlanta. Why play Julio when you could have good looks and a bat.

By steve

July 20, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

I couldn’t believe it. His PH was the first ball he pulled this year!!! LOL