Braves

By Cursed

July 23, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

The Braves never seem to get things right. Soriano was unhittable for months and now he is giving up dingers to every other batter. We give up a hot Julio Franco and get back an ice cold one. We have Andruw in his final contract year and he is barely hitting over .200 when most players have their best year in contract years. This would be much easier to take had we won 2-3 WS Titles in the 90’s when we had THE BEST TEAMS IN BASEBALL. We have Bobby Cox mismanagement to thank for that.

By Chad

July 23, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

DOB

Is there any indication from Soriano, Cox, McDowell, anybody, about what might be to blame for Soriano’s problems? It’s hard to see on TV sometimes if he’s consistently leaving pitches up, or consistently getting too much of the plate laterally, or if his breaking stuff has less bite, or if his fastball has straightened out…

His velocity doesn’t seem to have decreased, he’s still pitching in the low-mid 90’s with a 95/96 every once in a while, which has been normal for him all season. So what’s up?

By Patrick

July 23, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Any legs to that Renteria for Garland rumor floating around out there???

By Lee

July 23, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

DOB

Know this is a tough question, but any rumors or ideas on a left handed relief pitcher available to help the Braves for the remainder of the season? And if so, will the asking price be too high?

By Midnight Earl

July 23, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

How about this for a fix…

Ian Snell/LaRoche/Marte

for

Salty/Davies/Devine/Prado

By JasonInMaine

July 23, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

DOB,

This is from the previous blog. What are you thoughts as to your beliefs regarding legitimacy of the rumor:

One more blurb from the Internet. This one is from Will Carroll over at Baseball Prospectus:

“Watch reports on Jarrod Saltalamacchia closely—he’s the hole card for the Braves. By publicly (and privately) letting teams know that he’s not on the block, they’re hoping that the starter or slugger that they’re looking for either drops in value, or that they put Salty back on the table at the last second and make a deal. It’s a smart play.”

This seems to go along with DOB stating yesterday that Salty is not untouchable. It appears the Bravos may be trying to drive up his value.

Carroll goes on to say that the Pirates have actually targeted Salty as part of a Snell deal. Interesting. If Salty is not the future at 1B for the Braves, I would be hard pressed to not include him in a deal for a young, potential impact starter!

Regards,

Jason

By Bryan from Kansas (Go KU)

July 23, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

David, Did you see on Buster Olney’s blog that Peter Gammons told him we were talking about an Edgar Renteria-Jon Garland swap.. J.S. cant be serious..can he? That would take away our most consistent hitter so far this season

By Ron Roberts

July 23, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

DO’B… good stuff; don’t completely agree with you about the offense needing some tinkering, but we’re all in agreement that this bullpen is (again) killing us.

Has there been any discussion or signs that Matt Diaz might be considered for 1B? Like, has he taken any infield lately? Seems to me that this would help the lineup in-house without having to ship off a prospect or young player (Saltalamacchia or Escobar).

I mean, if we’re bold enough to play a rookie catcher who’s never played 1B before ever, then why not play Matty D. at 1B? At least he’s actually done it before, right?

The offense does need help. We’re all enamored with ourselves for scoring 10 and 14 on the Cardinals this past weekend, but only won 2 of 4 games, despite raking in 28 runs (7 per game average).

This season, we almost always follow up these big games with losses that show a need for a little more offense in the following game.

4/24 Braves win 11-4.

4/25 Braves lose 4-3

One more productive bat would’ve been nice.

5/19 Braves win 14-0

5/20 Braves lose 6-3

One more productive bat would’ve been nice. We were 2 for 10 with RISP and had 12 RISP in the game.

7/19 Braves win 10-1

7/20 Braves lose 4-2

One more productive bat would’ve been nice.

7/21 Braves win 14-6

7/22 Braves lose 7-2

One more productive bat would’ve been nice…say ANYBODY other than Julio Franco at 1B.

Only once did the Braves follow up an offensive outburst with steady offense, and there was actually an off-day between the two games.

Just my opinion, maybe…

By geauxbraves2000

July 23, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

You know as well as I and the rest of this blogosphere does, if the Braves have a small lead in the 8th that BC is going to run Soriano out there. And the beat goes on….

Anyhow, I personally don’t think this team is a championship cabilber team, but, they are hanging in there though, even if just by default, so if JS can make a significant move, who knows what could happen.

Geaux Braves!!

ps - Pitch to Bonds until such a time as the next HR will tie Aaron, then walk him, no matter the situation, even if he is the GW run. I’d rather lose the game than give up the tying HR.

By TampaBrave

July 23, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Me too!! 43 that is.

You may have seen that I am a big proponent of Tex coming to ATL. I think he would make a difference in the fact that the Braves have scored 3 or less in 40 games this year, yet the BA and OBP are high. I beleive the 4 hole should be manned by a guy that is accustomed to that pressure and has the discipline to hit near .300. I know alot of people say don’t do it, but if a comparable personnel move cannot be made, the Braves should go ahead and start the rebuilding, including trading AJ to a team that wants to rent him the rest of the year.

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

July 23, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

Getting Snell and Marte from the Pirates would be great…even if Salty were involved. Dimitri Young from the Nats could fill the gap at 1st.

By Joe Schmoe

July 23, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

A couple things…

Even though Gammons has become the enemy by openly rooting for the Red Sox, he’s still the best in the business and I believe him when he speaks. It’s been said that the White Sox have asked for Renteria before, so we know they’re interested, it would just be really tough to give up Edgar who has been so good. But, when you’re strength is their weakness and you have 2 guys(Escobar and Lillibridge) who are waiting to take his job…

Mr. Olney is currently saying that the price has come down on Teixiera. Maybe JS works more of his majic and pulls off the deal for other prospects than Salty. You can then call the Pirates and send Salty to them for Snell.

Huge upgrades and a possible run in the playoffs at that point…

By Alan

July 23, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

Yeah, DOB, the bullpen looks awful right now. Sorianno’s turnaround is unbelieveable, really - makes me wonder if there’s something wrong with him physically. It’s obvious his psyche is shot - never mind not facing Barry Bonds - I wouldn’t trust him to face Gary (U.S.) Bonds right now. The Braves’ maddening inconsistency was never more evident than over the weekend - bludgeon the Cardinals twice; have the bats go silent twice and lose close, very winnable games. Something really has to be done about 1st base, and if were up to me, I’d put Salty there full time and bring up Bryan Pena to back up McCann at catcher. Julio can stay, as far as I’m concerned, but only as a pinch-hitter against lefties. It’s beyond my comprehension why he was in last night’s starting lineup. And about that trade rumor making the rounds yesterday: Renteria for Garland?! That’s absolutely ridiculous. If JS actually made such a proposal and Kenny Williams turned it down, he (KW) is crazy. For that matter, so is JS for making it. You’re right, DOB. What the Braves need are pitchers - and right now the priority has to be a reliever (or two).

By Stephen

July 23, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

The fact that Soriano and Yates are pitching EVERY SINGLE night could have a little something to do with their poor performance as of late. Give em a couple of days off, even if it is a close game.

By TampaBrave

July 23, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

Excellent work! The blowup games are covering up the games where the clutch hitting is missing. Our runs per game is OK overall but bebeath the surface you’ll see the glaring hole in the lineup.

Midnight Earl The deal to get Laroche back is interesting…

By Shaun

July 23, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

Here’s something to consider: If possible, should the Braves give up a package that includes Salty for Livan Hernandez and Chad Cordero, trading within the division?

Steve Phillips was talking on Baseball Tonight about a possible Dontrelle Willis trade to the Braves, and Phillips said when he was a GM he didn’t worry too much about trading within the division if it helped his club. He said he didn’t talk with the Braves much when he was with the Mets but didn’t worry too much about avoiding trades with the other teams.

If that scenario (getting Livan and Cordero for a package that includes Salty) were to arise, I don’t know that I would hesitate to make that deal.

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

This isn’t a very strong San Francisco team, and the Giants have hit just .245 and lost 28 of 43 games since June 2. They are 3-8 with a .238 average in their past 11, though they did just win two of three over the weekend at Milwaukee.

And the Reds were a championship calibur team?

By Bob, Journalist

July 23, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Shaun Payne, Regarding your 10:04 AM Post …

The paragraph to which your post referred to projecting run production sans Andruw, or his batting 8th or 9th … it had absolutely nothing to do with batting average.

Also, by definition, such an evaluation must obviously be subjective but has absolutely nothing with either emotion or evidence … my reference to your penchant was intended as humor and to underline the folly of so doing.

To do it properly, one would have to consider the difference in contagion and then run each of the games played this season through a simulation model, perhaps 100,000 trials per game to estimate the expected runs each game and then compare the results to actual performance. it would still be subjective!

It wouldn’t be that difficult to do but, unless your assumption sets were database ready, it would be more time consuming than most would consider justified … my intent was to suggest that one could/should subjectively make a judgment as to whether more meaningful runs would have been scored had the suggested change been in effect … and though not directly addressed, if he were benched rather than placed at the end of the batting order, consideration should be given to his marginal defensive contribution.

If I might suggest, it would be far less embarrassing for you … and you would make a fool of yourself less frequently … if you would take the time to read and and try understand the posts, including the intent, before you respond to them … If you’re not sure, ask … it really isn’t that hard to do and I would think you would quickly get the hang of so doing.

I once turned in what I thought to be a superior solution to a complex advanced calculus problem, expecting an “A” … The professor noted on my paper, Excellent work, and then in giant, bold red letters, about 15 times all over the paper … GRADE F - READ THE $%#!& PROBLEM, IDIOT!!

My break is over, but I’ll be back tonight.

By ChampDawg

July 23, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Blame Cox…… what a hard-headed dumb @$$. He keeps putting the Braves in these situations. Let’s see… Julio at 1st, Andruw playing at all, Harris-Escobar-Salty-McCann not in every game every day, and the same old bullpen decisions despite that obvious reality that it ain’t working. Hey, Booby- the bullpen is tired, dude.

By TennesseePaul

July 23, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

DOB: Good points on the Soriano/Moylan deal. I don’t trust Tanto all that much. Perhaps we need to cut Soriano’s outings to just one or two outs. Absolutely brutal.

As for the trades alluded to… I agree. Starting pitching isn’t a need for this season as much as relief help and 1B. Which brings me to my late post on the last blog.
Ian Snell is a solid pitcher. But trading Salty for Snell doesn’t help the team’s issues with 1B and the pen. Salty is the better performer at 1B, moving him opens it back up for Thor and Franco. While I like both those guys, I don’t like our chances if they are the ones we are looking to for production at 1B.

By Matt

July 23, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave-For the last time, you can’t trade Andruw.He’s a 10-5 player who would have to approve anything.And he has already said that he is finishing the season as a BRave.

DOn’t know what’s so hard to understand about that.Andruw CAN’T BE TRADED!!

By Nashbrave

July 23, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

What?

“Even though Gammons has become the enemy by openly rooting for the Red Sox, he’s still the best in the business and I believe him when he speaks.”

I’d be happy to believe him and all the rest of his ESPN cronies if they got the basic facts right. Gammons says the braves can’t spend much money because “the team is for sale.”

Morgan wonders if Estrada taught Francouer something about swinging at first pitches “while they were teammates.” Of course, they never were.

C’mon folks, don’t believe a rumor unless DOB sez it. He’s got credibility, not these clowns.

By David O'Brien

July 23, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

Bryan, the Braves would have to give up a big piece for an impact starter, but I believe they’d do it, not just for this year’s stretch run but to have a guy in place for next season. Because right now, they’ve got Smoltz and Hudson for next year, and James, but who to fill out the rotation, and you really need to have a strong guy to move into that top three, if you can do it.

Remember last winter, when they talked about rebuilding the pitching rotation at any cost, and how shocked some (me) initially were that they’d trade LaRoche at such a young age, etc, for a closer coming off an elbow issue? Well, they’d trade Renteria if they could get an impact starter, which Garland’s certainly been in the past (throw out this year’s results, which aren’t great but aren’t bad, either; that Sox team is a mess).

They’d only trade Renteria because Escobar is so good defensively at shortstop and they believe he’d be a big-time bat in the lineup on a regular basis. But you’d sure hate to lose Renteria 1-1/2 years before you have to. Then again, you’d hate to lose Escobar, but you’re not going to bring him back as a platoon 2B or backup infielder next year. Escobar needs a regular job or to be traded by winter.

By Matt

July 23, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Just say “no” to trading w/in the division.

Willis is overrated.And since when has Phllips been credible?

By Joe Schmoe

July 23, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Shaun

That may be a good idea and all, but Livan pitches for Arizona now. So, unless you figure out how to send one player to two teams, then that may not work.

Unless you were talking about a three team trade…

By N8

July 23, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Nice choice of lyrics DOB. I’ll assume that’s directed at Julio?

LOVE IT!

By TennesseePaul

July 23, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

Payne: Isn’t Livan on the D-Backs team? How would this package work?

By Colin

July 23, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

We need bullpen help in the name of Marte and Dotel and offensive help in the name of Tex so pick your posion, we can outslug a team ( a la the Yankees) or try to out pitch them. I think we kill two birds with one stone and go after Tex and Gagne or CJ Wilson. Who cares what we give up WIN NOW, WIN NOW.At most they would want Salty and another minor leaguer who may be ready to step in next year ( a la Devine).

By TLJ

July 23, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

Tex, Marte and Snell to Atlanta would be great. Unfortunately, it’s not going to happen. I think JS will bring in a right handed relief pitcher and that will be the extent of our moves.

Tell BC to give Soriano a week off to rest that right arm before it falls off.

By Joe Schmoe

July 23, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

Nashbrave

Comparing Peter Gammons to Joe Morgan? That’s an insult to the highest degree. Come on man, you’re better than that.

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

July 23, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

Livan is a free agent after 2007; no way should Salty be involved in a swap for him.

By rick

July 23, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

ITS SORRYano……..Period

By Ron Roberts

July 23, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Lew… to carry over a conversation from the last blog….

You’re right that the bullpen didn’t hold the lead, last night, but c’mon, it was a 2-1 lead… a 1-run lead. Task most bullpens in the majors to hold a 1-run lead in 3+ innings, and they’re almost all sure to blow that.

Before the extra-inning meltdown, the bullpen allowed only 1 run in 3 2/3 inning. That’s below a 3.00 ERA. If Soriano doesn’t pitch last night, we probably win the game, but you can’t fault the bullpen for allowing 1 ER in the regulation game, and not point fingers at an offense that scored only 2 runs in the game, as well.

By rick

July 23, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

ITS SORRYano……..Period

By rick

July 23, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

ITS SORRYano……..Period

By Shaun

July 23, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

Nashbrave,

Actually Estrada and Francoeur were teammates in 2005.

By Bryan from Kansas (Go KU)

July 23, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

David thanks for answering my post… I agree that Escobar is good defensively and he has done well in the platoon role, but we dont really know what Escobar could do on an everyday basis during a pennant run..,. We do Edgar…I wouldnt disagree with this so much if it were to happen during the winter….

By Midnight Earl

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

DOB,

Do they have fish tacos in SF? What’s on the menu today?

By rick

July 23, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

It’s SORRYano…Period.

By Shaun

July 23, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul and Joe Schmoe,

Yes. I was wrong. Livan is with the D-Backs. I knew that. Don’t know what I was thinking. And the Nats don’t have any starters worth trading for. Still in weekend mode.

By Yars

July 23, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

If Schuerholz is refusing to trade Salty now, is he waiting until after the season, or is Salty going to be the Braves everyday 1B in ‘08? I think Salty’s future should be at catcher. Since McCann will be in Atlanta for a long time, if Salty isn’t going to be our 1B, then he should be traded. Right now, Atlanta has some flaws in the bullpen, 1B, starting rotation. Which is more important? I can’t see Schuerholz addressing all three. I believe a quality starting pitcher could get us into the playoffs. Jo Jo Reyes should still be in Richmond. I think he has a great future, but he needs more seasoning. Buddy Carlyle is nothing but a AAAA pitcher. It’s great that he’s pitching well, but he would be destroyed in the playoffs. Chuck James is pitching better, but still throws nothing but junk. He needs to learn another pitch. Kelly Johnson should be playing everyday at 2B. He’s too good to be sitting against LH pitching. He’s a future all star. Whose idea was this platoon at 2B anyway? I think it stinks! Too bad Escobar can’t play 1B. Now Playing: Personal Jesus by Depeche Mode

By Ron Roberts

July 23, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

I’d be all for the Jon Garland trade, except…

…I, for one, am tired of us making trades for pitchers with sketchy injury issues before we get them only to have those issues blow up when he’s on our roster, a la Mike Gonzalez.

Garland’s mentioned a knot in his shoulder, but says it’s not keping him from pitching (???) and he’ll just pitch through it and will probably have to the rest of his career.

Uh, no thanks. The Land of Misfit Arms is all full-up!

By A-ville Ranger

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

DOB This is exactly what I was worried about when Soriano kept giving up meaningless runs.I’m surprised more people didn’t connect his prior blown saves to his posturing demeanor.The signs tell me he has a fragile ego.I think if you trace his loss of effectiveness it will take you to that stretch when he was misused.It may be that this would come out regardless but as I asked before why would BC take the chance ?

By Patrick

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

DOB,

Surely JS cannot be that desparate. Garland is a mediocre pitcher. He doesn’t K anybody and has had only one good season really. Trade one of your top two players on the team for that is insane in my opinion

By TampaBrave

July 23, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

Matt

If he has a choice between riding the pine with a team going nowhere or playing for a contender, perhaps he will forego the splinters in his a* and waive the no trade clause. Think outside the box, my friend. There’s more than one way to skin a cat.

Of course, the order to bench him would have to come from JS or above as Bobby wouldn’t do it. Anything’s possible. Don’t be an absolutist.

By Shaun

July 23, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist,

Actually there have been all sorts of batting order studies using simulations and other methods. The results of these types of studies consistently show that batting order doesn’t make that much of a difference in run production. Who’s in a lineup is much more important than where they hit.

That said, batting order does make a little bit of a difference and if your a major league manager that little bit should matter to you.

By Braveheart

July 23, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Soriano has been scary bad lately - Armando Benitez/Mel Rojas bad. Now I know how Mets fans felt all those years watching those clowns.

Soriano will pull through I hope, think, believe, feel.

And NCZ, Lew was not the Drools of Engagement. That would be me. But I’m honored that you would attribute something I posted to Lew although Lew might not feel the same way.

By Yars

July 23, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

DOB……….have you heard anything on where Kelly Johnson’s future is with the Braves? Will he stay at 2B, or be moved to LF next season? It’s obvious Escobar feels most comfortable at SS, not 2B. Also, will you have time to hang out in the Haight-Ashbury district? How far is your hotel from it?

By Joe

July 23, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

The trade rumer about Renteria for Garland is completely made up by Brave hater Peter Gammons. Why would the Braves trade their most consistant player besides Chipper for an ok starter??? Gammons is a dumbass.. Julio needs to go and shouldn’t have ever been brought back in. Listen. The Mets got rid of him for a reason. His bat speed is gone. When your that old it’s not likely you’ll find it again. I guess the one thing J.S. can say is that he made a move before the deadline. That move is not going to work period. Even he has to see that. Being sentimental don’t win you ball games… Trade Salty and get a good first baseman. Salty and Davies for Teixeira sounds good to me. His contract ain’t up till 08’ and with Andrew gone we’ll be able to aford the 10 mill next year and have a little left to boot. By the way you idiot Gammons. The Braves have sold!!!!

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

Garland’s strikeout rate is scary bad.

By the way, say what you will about Billy Wagner, but having the ability to end games via the K is really important.

By tim

July 23, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

I think that edgar has been the best player on the Braves this year(besides chipper when he is healthy). I don’t see how trading him makes our club better. I liked the earlier post about letting matt diaz try first base. That guy can flat out hit and we need his bat in the lineup

By Mo in the boonies

July 23, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

I’d like to trade Cox for Leyland.

By Jeff321

July 23, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

The Braves’ starting rotation as of right now is great. However the bullpen is lame. I’d rather see the entire bullpen replaced with AA/AAA talent than for these same losers to keep giving up runs.

By TampaBrave

July 23, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Gammons was traded by the Boston Braves and still holds a grudge to this day.

By Coach ( Relief Pitching Or Bust !)

July 23, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

O’Brien is dead on in his assessment. The offense and rotation have finally come around at the same time. Just our luck that the bullpen would implode. But , Cox has really thrown a lot of innings their way and it was to be expected that the early season struggles of the rotation would eventually wear the bullpen down. Damaso Marte is an option. I would love to see Zack Greinke in a Braves uniform but I really have a hard time believing the Royals would trade a pitcher with ace potential. Jeff Conine or Kevin Millar are much more affordable than Mark Teixiera. Pitching first , offense second and why the hell don’t the Braves try Matt Diaz at 1B ? Call up Brayan Pena and send Julio packing already. Franco is only embarrassing himself , he needs to retire. One last thought , the Braves would try Julio Franco but they won’t consider Sammy Sosa’s big right handed bat off the bench or playing part time in LF freeing up Diaz to play a few games at 1B ?

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Dmitri Young…….

C.J Wilson….

Dan Wheeler…..

That shouldn’t cost too much. We would still be able to keep Salty and Escobar.

By Matt

July 23, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave-Do you really believe Andruw is gonna be benched? That ain’t happening.If just for his defense alone.Use your head here.

Andruw isn’t gonna be traded nor does he want to be.HE’s finishing the year in a Braves uni. Sorry to burst your bubble.

And to say the BRaves are going “nowwhere” is silly.

By SR

July 23, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, welcome to the Bay Area dude.

Post your e-mail address and I will shoot you a message with some locals tips for dining, drinking etc.

By doobird

July 23, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Just another “senior moment” by the management … can’t remember who the guy is that keeps giving up the long ball!

By TennesseePaul

July 23, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

For the Gammons haters out there… It was Peter Gammons making the case for the Braves the past few years. His analysis was something akin to: with the young talent JS has amassed, this team is going to be good for at least another 4 or 5 years. He made this case on Baseball Tonight when the rest of the clowns were arguing against the Braves.
So he messed up on the sale of the team. Big flippin’ deal. Not sure how that makes one a hater or lover of anything.
If Gammons is saying the Braves don’t have the money to spend, then so what? No team official has come out and said “we have XXX million to spend at the dead line.” It’s an unknown amount which will remain unknown if JS has his way. Blathering about how much you have to spend on payroll only ups the demands of player agents. JS likes to pay for fair, or actual, value of the player, not necessarily “market value”.

By Matt

July 23, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Cox for Leyland? LOL! Leyland has as many WS titles as Bobby, ONE! Plus his team was clearly better then St.Louis last year and they couldn’t beat them.

Plus,do you remember the ‘91 & ‘92 NLCS?

Silly people on this blog.

By bravesfan

July 23, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

I think they just need to let Moylan pitch the 8th inning (maybe even the 7th too where we can give Yates some rest too) this series if we have the lead to give Soriano some much needed rest.

I also think they need a lineup change (but I know Bobby Cox isn’t going to do that). Johnson 2B, Renteria SS, McCann C, Chipper 3B, Francoeur RF, Harris LF, Saltalamacchia 1B, Andruw CF, Smoltz P.

What do yall think?

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Can we not trade Kelly Johnson? I know he isn’t the greatest defensive 2nd baseman, but he is basically the only guy other than Chipper and Renteria that takes walks. His OPS is 100 points higher than Frenchy, but not a single person cares because everyone sees the high RBI numbers that Francouer puts up.

By GermanBravesFan

July 23, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

DOB… I might head over to the game tomorrow night (I live in Stockton, about 1.5 hours East of SFO) - even though I am dreading the prospect of Bonds tying the record.

By TheSouthernJackAss

July 23, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

TheJackAss will now talk baseball—if the Braves do acquire another starting pitcher…they need to make sure that the bum can go more than 4 or 5 innings before running out of steam, and that he is capable of pitching in weather consisting of over 50% humidity and 70deg. temperature…

…and if the Braves do trade for Mark Teixeira, does that mean that Bobby Cox will then have a first base platoon comprised of Thorman, Franco, Saltalamacchia, and Teixeira?…

Play Diaz in left, Harris in center, Saltalamacchia at first, Johnson at second, platoon Escobar with Chipper at third so when he finally DL’s for good Escobar can fill his spot permanently…and permit Andruw Jones to go elsewhere next season to drain his projected $20+mil. out of some other teams’ payroll…and have him take Woodward and Wickman with him…

Lastly, do not allow Barry Bonds to break, or tie Hank Aaron’s home run record at the Braves expense, under any circumstances…

That’s about all the ‘baseball talk’ that TheJackAss has for now…

By Coach ( Relief Pitching Or Bust !)

July 23, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Matt , the Brave are 16-9 in April , 14-14 in May , 13-15 in June and 9-9 so far in July. Since that 7-1 start the Braves are 45-46 . thats 91 straight games of going N-O-W-H-E-R-E fast. They need help in the pitching department , obviously.

By TennesseePaul

July 23, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Another thing about Tex. Everyone, absolutely everyone, knows the Rangers will eventually lower the price and suck themselves into a not so fantastic deal. Boras knows this. He reams them every other winter. Kevin Towers knows this. He traded injured, disgruntled Adam Eaton and a reliever for Tremel Sledge, Adrian Gonzalez and Chris Young. No need to give up Salty AND Escobar for Tex. The Rangers are disadvantaged because the most likely team to bet the farm on any given player is the Rangers themselves.
So eventually, someone will make off with the prize, and probably more. I wouldn’t be all that surprised to see some team trade a solid player on the DL and a back up for Tex and 3 top Rangers prospects.

By Shaun

July 23, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

Yeah. I’m sure Gammons, a HOF sportswriter, gets a real kick out of making up trade rumors about the Braves. That’ll show ‘em!

Ever consider the possibility that it could have been for more than just Garland? That Garland and Renteria were just the meat of the trade?

I’m not a big fan of the way ESPN does things—too pretentious for me—but seems like a lot of their baseball guys (with the exception of Joe Morgan) are the best part of ESPN.

By JDG123

July 23, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

I just can’t see the Braves willing to take on John Garland and his $10 million contract or Mark Teixeira and his $9 million contract with Scott Boras set to ask for $15 million plus for the next deal. Ian Snell at $400,000 is a far better choice and has the room to grow as a pitcher.

By Yars

July 23, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

Joe….excellent post @ 2:29pm. Nice way to put things into perspective. With Andruw gone after the season, the Braves will need to make up for his power. Salty & Davies for Texiera sounds fair, even if they can only keep Tex for the ‘08 season. I can’t help but wonder why Schuerholz did sign Julio. Who knows, maybe Julio will surprise and prove he can still be an asset.

By Porkins

July 23, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

DOB, you should try to get tickets to one of the Smashing Pumpkins’ shows at The Fillmore this week. I saw them in a club in Asheville, and it was beyond incredible.

By bravesfan

July 23, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Which one do we believe?

Truth and Rumors Three teams interested in D-Back Posted: Monday July 23, 2007 09:41AM ET According to officials with two different teams, who asked not to be identified because talks are ongoing, the Diamondbacks have been calling around to see how interested teams would be in Livan Hernandez. The Mets have expressed some interest, as have the Braves and Mariners.

Ken Rosenthal The Diamondbacks are willing to move right-hander Livan Hernandez, rival executives say, but two contenders looking for starters — the Mets and Braves — aren’t interested. Hernandez, 32, has allowed 20 homers in 126 1/3 innings, the 10th-highest rate in the majors. “He’s not as bad as (Jose) Contreras, but he’s going in the wrong direction,” one rival executive says …

By Joe Schmoe

July 23, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Efrim

I’m with you on Kelly. Everytime I see him at the plate, I feel assured that he’s going to have a quality at bat. I don’t think JS is stupid enough to trade away a guy who looks like he always has an idea about what he wants to do at the plate to make room for another free swinger. Right now, there are 4 legit all around hitters in this lineup(Edgar, Chipper, McCann and Kelly).

Francoeur has shown tremendous improvement and as he gets stronger his slug. percentage will go up, but he’s not as in control and comfortable as Kelly is.

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Do not count the Giants out of this series. Cain, Lincecum and Lowry are all very good pitchers. If the game is close in the late innings, we very well could lose those games because of our weak bullpen.

It is all of a sudden back to last year with this team. I still have a lot of confidence in Soriano in the long term. The guy lives up in the strike zone too often, but he is still a very good reliever who will get it together. This team is still good enough to win the wild card. The Padres will fade. Jake Peavy is pitching hurt right now. The Cubbies are way too hot and won’t be able to keep this up all year.

As far as the division goes, we are going to have to beat the Mets 6 of 9 again if we want to win the division. That is going to be a tall task. It would be really nice to see the Braves turn it around on the road and go 5-2 in this stretch. Of course, we just went 2-5 against the Cardinals and Reds at home. Oh well.

By Bob, Journalist

July 23, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I was shutting down and saw that you quickly responded … Shaun, I’m well aware of what you say, having so done for clients, 2000-2002 … however, it’s not relevant to the issue … either you’re not reading the my post, you’re not understanding them or for some reason. you feel obligated to respond with irrelevant factoids.

What level of marginal contagion would you associate with associate with Andruw’s being benched and the cleanup slot filled with Matt, who, for the sake argument, would otherwise not play. Would it be positive or negative? How many batting order positions would it affect?

I have an appointment is 15 minutes and must must go …

By MGL

July 23, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

If the Tex thing cannot get done, what about Todd Helton. Rox were trying to move him earlier to unload $$$. (I know his power numbers seem to be down, but have not heard why)

By AthensBrave

July 23, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

I’d rather get blown out than give up a lead and lose late in the game. Its so devastating!!!

During the ab to Pujols, Salty kept pointing his glove down and away. He even went out to the mound for a visit!! The very next pitch, Soriano throws a meat ball high and over the middle.

How can any reliver possibly make that mistake in a one run game, bases empty, against one of the top hitters in the baseball!!!

What the f is wrong with him? And don’t tell me its fatique

By Joe Schmoe

July 23, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

I agree Shaun.

ESPN’s baseball coverage overall isn’t great. Their play by play guys are terrible, but what can you do? The best part about their coverage is when Baseball Tonight has on Gammons and/or Olney. Any other time I’m probably not going to watch, but if those guys are on I know I’m going to hear something tangible.

By Plate Appearance

July 23, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

THE FRANCO SIGNING

I really don’t see the wisdom in the Franco signing based on his most recent stats with the Mets — and how these stats have continued with the Braves in the three games he’s played.

I’d much rather see Escobar have some at bats at 1B, if the Braves want more production than they’re currently getting from Thorman and Salty.

Looking back to Spring Training, Yunel took some at bats at 1B, so the Braves have played him there.

Moreover, I’ve wondered too, why the Braves never considered Javy Lopez as an option at 1B — over Craig Wilson or even Julio. Javy indicated before the season started that he would like to come back with the Braves. Moreover, I have to believe Javy has more left in his tank than Julio, even though he’d need some minor league at bats before being ready to play again in the majors.

It’s admirable that Franco wants to keep playing until 50, but the Mets are right: you have to produce.

I’d rather see Franco’s at bats go to some of the younger players. And why not Yunel? In fact I couldn’t help think, during Franco’s at bats yesterday, that I would have much rather seen Yunel up there taking some swings than Julio.

What is Franco now with the Braves, something like 1 for 12 — with two losses in the three games he’s played in?

Any thoughts on using Yunel some at 1B David? Do you know if the Braves have considered doing so?

Or what about even the possibility of the Braves trying Diaz at iB? Anyone but Franco! At this point in his career I have to believe his heart is greater than his diminishing physical skills.

By BravesFanInRockies

July 23, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

Shaun and TennPaul,

RE: The last blog and pitch counts.

If I remember correctly, Leo had his young starters on a pitch count early in their careers … and I believe it was 128! He would also pull them if they piled up a large number of pitches (more than 30 or so per) in the middle innings.

His idea was that pitchers continued to grow and mature physically until they were 25 or 26, and that they would do no damage to their arms if they averaged no more than 16 pitches an inning over an 8-inning start.

All I knows is, the Braves’ starters seemed to have few health problems when Leo was around. (Then again, he wasn’t that great with bullpens …)

This [NYT Magazine] (http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/03/sports/playmagazine/0603play-wood.html?ex=1185336000&en=85daabb4697a68aa&ei=5070) story about Kerry Wood talks about how careers can be ruined if teams work young pitchers too much. It’s from the author of Friday Night Lights. Good stuff.

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

Joe Schmoe,

Agreed. OPS is important. It is the stat to measure a player’s real worth to a team. RBI’s are great, but you can’t win with a bunch of guys with OPS’s under .800. Not a knock on Frenchy. The guy is very important to us. There is really no one else I would rather have up in a clutch spot than him.

By Savannah Guy

July 23, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

DOB Posted this a day or two ago but I think it was about the time you were being strip searched at the airport. In SF, they consider that a compliment and a gesture of good will.

Anyway…Food While in SF, do yourself a favor and check out Mama’s for breakfast. 1701 Stockton St. on Washington Square. You will be glad. You’ll be fat. You will thank me. Speaking of classic, try Tommy’s Joynt if you haven’t. Have them build a “hand carved” sandwich and have a cold pub-brew. Again, you will be happy.

By Salty

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

AthensBrave You asked: What the f is wrong with him?

Do some investigative work, find his phone #, get a translator (unless you know Spanish), and give him a call. Get the answer straight from the horse’s mouth, ‘cause no one here knows for a fact.

Or…wait on DO’B…if there’s a reason, he’ll find out…and report it. That’s what he does!

By colascdawg

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

Two outs in the eighth and no one on…how about walking Pujols and making someone else on the Cards beat you. That is game management as much as anything…not sure hwose call it is Soriano, catcher (I think it was Salty), Cox, McDowell.

Obviously that pitch shouldn’t have even come close to that part of the plate, but an intentional walk would have taken the bat out of Pujols’ hands and not forced Soriano to try and be so perfect against the only truly dangerous threat on the Cards.

I can live with Encarnacion or Duncan beating us, but Pujols should never hadve had the opportunity.

By TampaBrave

July 23, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

Matt,

The trading deadline is about to be upon us and I’m sure Braves mgmt will dawdle, however, if the Braves were to hit the skids this week and fall 8 games back, it wouldn’t be out of the realm of possibilities that mgmt. changes the focus for this season to a rebuilding year. You are probably right, but its not absolute.

Stategies in personnel offices around the country dictate that placing a worker in a place/position they are uncomfortable with usually gets the desired effect, that is, they agree to leave of their own accord. Why not baseball??

Disagree, fine. But unless you are Scott Boras, then your argument is not absolute. There has never been a disgruntled player who ever wanted to be traded I guess.

My hope is that Andruw recovers and leads us to the playoffs, but its sure not looking like his bad habits are going to change.

By Shaun

July 23, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

Did you notice last night that ESPN’s coverage seemed to focus more on the Braves than it normally does? And rightfully so; the Braves were the contending team on the field last night.

There’s no pleasing some of the folks.

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 23, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

I’ll will be at the Aug 7th game against the braves. It would be great if Pedro made his return that night and dominated the braves for his first win. Yes that would be NICE!!

By HP

July 23, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Why do teams wait until last hour before the deadline to make trades? I really don’t like it. It is useless to talk now about the trades because most trades occur on the trade deadline. Maybe we should have a blog on the trade deadline to talk about trades.

By rotomeister

July 23, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

DOB, I have a question about Julio Franco since you brought up how poorly he has performed for the Braves so far.

Why did he get the start last night vs. a RHP that is horrible vs. left-handed hitters. Thorman had actually put together a decent game Saturday night. Seems a perfect time to give him back to back starts and see if he can get himself on track.

I think Julio can be useful as a role player but management is really reaching if they think he’s really anything more than that at this point in his career. He looked bad last night in several important at bats with men on base. Julio could have put tacked on several runs. Instead, we got nothing and Pujols made us pay.

I think that one has to be on the offense considering the opportunities we had vs. a less than average RH starting pitcher.

By michael

July 23, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

It is McDowell to fix the bullpen problems. I am still not sold on him as a pitching coach.

michael

By TennesseePaul

July 23, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Payne: No. Didn’t notice. But that’s because I wasn’t watching. I had the game on but the sound off. Put in the new Wilco and some Jazz compilations and watched the game. Then, after the game I put in The Constant Gardener. Pretty good flick. Only bad part about that whole evening was the 3 HR that sank the squad.

By Elmer

July 23, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

It’s not the first time Cox has overused a reliever and lost an arm. Rocker and Wholers, for example.

By Scoff

July 23, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

Picking up Tex for Salty and whoever else excluding Escobar would not be bad at all. Losing Andruw after this season means losing a lot of offense (despite his numbers this year). Compare Tex’s stats to Andruw’s over each of their careers. Tex’s average is better than Andruw’s in just about ever catagory. To me, Tex’s salary is not unreasonable compared to that of Andruw’s. Just look at the stats….

Andruw’s- http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/stats/individualstatsplayer.jsp?playerID=116662&statType=1

Tex’s- http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/stats/individualstatsplayer.jsp?c_id=mlb&playerID=407893

By Shaun

July 23, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

I’d rather have Chipper up in a clutch spot. Probably Edgar, too. And maybe Kelly Johnson or Matt Diaz.

I do like the progress Francoeur has made a lot. Certainly a good sign for the next decade or so. I still think many are slightly overrating him because of his triple crown numbers and overlooking his relatively weak OBP and not overly impressive SLG.

By Lee

July 23, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Everybody keeps mentioning winning the division. The wild card may be a better option for this team. At least they would not have home field advantage throughout the post season and that appears to be a good thing. No team is going to run away with the Wild Card due to every contender having to play one another for the remainder of the season. It may well be decided the last day of the season.

I

By AthensBrave

July 23, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

colascdawg,

I agree…Pujols shouldn’t be given a chance in that situation especially w/ Soriano’s recent struggles. Salty knew that and called for the ball down and away. Maybe Rafel is getting paid off by the mob to blow games like that NBA ref. How else can you explain going from domination to sucking that quick?

By bud

July 23, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Although Renteria appears to be the perfect number two hitter with his ability to hit with power to right field and his 320+ batting average, he is a total failure in his ability to hit-and-run, he does not protect the runner stealing second, and he cannot advance a runner from second with nobody out. He has hurt the Braves all year long with his inability to advance and protect runners. Why not have Harris lead off with Johnson batting second then let Rentaria bat third with Chipper fourth. I know Bobby manages for the three run homer but it seems every time he tries a steal or hit-and-run it backfires.

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

July 23, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

What would it take to get Rauch and Dimitri Young or Young and Cordero?

By MGL

July 23, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

From Andruw:

“We tried to play good baseball, but I guess we made too many mistakes as a team,” Andruw Jones said. “We had opportunities to score some runs and we didn’t, and we made some mistakes pitching.

It would have been better if he would have said that if he had done a better job, they could have won in 9 innings!!

By TampaBrave

July 23, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Leyland is a great manager. The only real mistake I remember is bringing in Stan Belinda to face Francisco Cabrera. Cabrera had difficulty in hitting any type of breaking pitch and by removing the ever durable Drabek, Leyland set the table for Cabrera with nice straight fastballs. Not his best move, but thanks Jim. We braves fans appreciated the gift.

By DonCoburleone

July 23, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

Bottom line guys, this team needs to add a piece or 2 (or 3) if we legitimately want to win this division. The Mets have practically put it on a tee for us and now all we have to do is hit it out of the park; and we can’t do it! It’s amazing how nothing seems to click at the same time with this team. Right now our offense and starters are playing lights-out while our relievers are costing us games. When Chipper was hurt, our bullpen was filthy but our offense and starting pitching struggled. And at the beginning of the year, our starters stunk BAD while our offense & bullpen were tearing it up….. On the positive side, I could argue that this team has yet to click on all cylinders for any prolonged period. BUT, when it is nearly 2/3rds of the way through the season it is rare for a team to suddenly put it all together unless a change or 2 is made. All I know is, something has to be done or we will be tortured like this all year long - Sweep the Pirates, get swept by the Reds, then split with the Cardinals when 3 out of 4 was all but locked up in the final game… If this homestand (5-5 against 3 of the top 6 worst teams in the NL) doesn’t scream “mediocrity” then I don’t know what does… Its time to make a move Scheurholz and save this season!

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

Francouer is overrated. There I said it. But he has that flare to him. I am amazed that Frenchy is slugging as low as he is. I think he will put it all together next year.

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

Glass Half Full,

From a team with Jim Bowden as the GM, Salty and Brandon Jones.

By Lee

July 23, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

HP

To add to your post, the trades that are most talked about are the ones that never happen also.

By N8

July 23, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Joe

“Gammons is a dumbass..”

I will no longer take anything you have to say seriously, due to that comment.

Love or hate Gammons, he knows more about baseball, than just about everybody on this blog combined. More often than not, there is truth to his “scoops”.

By bravesfan

July 23, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

It doens’t matter what we say cause I can gaurantee the lineup will be. Harris LF Renteria SS C,Jones 3B A,Jones CF McCann C Johnson 2B Francoeur RF Salty or Franco 1B Smoltz P

By TampaBrave

July 23, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

Does anybody out there hate listening to Chris Berman do any game in any sport as much as I do? For pete’s sake, every athlete doesn’t have to have a nickname. So overdone.

CB-Julio “Don’t call me Francisco” Franco swings, there’s a drive…. Bac,bac,bac,bac,bac,bac,bac,bac,bac……..Edmunds makes a great catch in Mid center field.

JM- Do I really have to listen to this s**?

that’s Joe Morgan

By Shaun

July 23, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

Bud,

Among all the regulars, Renteria has the third-highest average on the team. He’s hitting at least .361/.418/.514 in all situations in which there is at least a runner on first.

He’s only grounded into 10 double plays in 80 PA with runners on first and 1 DP in 25 PA with runners on first and second. All #2 hitters in baseball have averaged 9 double plays grounded into this season. And we would probably expect more from Renteria given that Braves leadoff hitters have posted an OBP of .365, 7th highest in baseball.

By DonCoburleone

July 23, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

“If this homestand (5-5 against 3 of the top 6 worst teams in the NL) doesn’t scream “mediocrity” then I don’t know what does.”

Oh yeah, how about 45-46 since April 10th. That is about as average as a team can get…

By N8

July 23, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

Yars

“I can’t help but wonder why Schuerholz did sign Julio. Who knows, maybe Julio will surprise and prove he can still be an asset.”

IMO, the ONLY spot Julio should be taking up on this team, would be Bobby’s bench coach. His best assets at this point, would be instructing young players. But I don’t think that the “info” he has to pass along, is worth him taking up a spot on the 25 man roster, much less starting at 1B.

Good guy, good mentor, not so good at playing anymore.

YIKES.

By Barry

July 23, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Don’t let Soriano pitch to Barry? Don’t let anyone pitch to Barry. Don’t even throw anything close to the plate. Take your chances against the other senior citizens on the Giants.

By DonCoburleone

July 23, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Efrim when you are making $395,000 for a team, there is no way in he!! you can be overrated with a .290BA and 65RBI… Then again, if you want to argue he’s overrated when putting it up against a Sports Illustrated cover with the words “The Natural” on it, well then I agree…

By Del

July 23, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

I wish that MLB (old Bud) would address the heavy handed way that ESPN dictates which teams participate in their telecasts, It is absolutely not right to demand that the Braves play a 8:00PM starting time one night on the East coast and then have to play a 10:00PM starting time the very next night on the West coast. This has happened twice to the Braves this year. Guess old Bud is out for the allmighty $$$ rather than a sensible schedule. His logic for WS home field advantage, and the un-balanced schedule also fall under the $$$ umbrella that colors his decision making.

By the way, I agree whole heartedly that the bullpen is our most immediate need. But even though they might be able to fix this situation, it won’t do any good unless BC changes his MO regarding when to use his pen. I would really be interested to know how many of our startes feel like they could have pitched an inning or two longer when they were pulled.

By Savannah Guy

July 23, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOG-ON-FLY REPORT COMING

Notice how I grabbed your attention with that semi-official looking headline? Was that self-serving and crass advertising? Hell yes, but it’s the first and last time you’ll ever see this so sit back, relax, have a (fill in the blank) and read on. It’ll only take a few minutes (certain Mets fans may require several hours). It’s not like I’m keeping you from something urgent or critical anyway, right?

This is announcing the first in a series of special Braves reports from behind the scenes and behind closed clubhouse doors, where reporters and the general public have limited access. This addition to the blog will be titled, “The Daily Buzz”. To accomplish this task, I have recruited and commissioned a sleuth reporter, “Mr. Fly”, who will fly, swoop or sneak into places other reporters just can’t get into. Mr. Fly will position himself carefully and undetected, in the premises of people in the Braves franchise (usually he favors walls). Fly will listen carefully to private conversations, take copious notes and report his material back to me. I will then translate and transcribe what he brings in.

How will I do this you say? I recently purchased a state of the art “fly translator device” that will make this all possible. Never before could you get this information from any non-human species. Just remember, if I ever get anything wrong or if it does not resonate, hey, give it a chance. It’s probably just a temporary glitch in the fly-translator technology.

The “Daily Buzz” reports will not appear every day or even every week. These reports will not necessarily be funny. Usually they will take “stating the painfully obvious” just one step further. The “Fly” reporter will deliver to you an absurd, eclectic collection of topics. You’ll find front and center recounts of private conversations between Braves management, players, fans, hot dog vendors and others. You’ll be privy to top-line summaries of executive meetings and such.

From time to time, when warranted, the Fly sleuth may even recap blog denizens conversations occurring right here on this very blog, as a kind of “abbreviated absurdity summary”. Sometimes they will make you chuckle. They’ll add a different perspective or just a different angle on the same perspective. There will always be an attempt (after this one) to keep the reports…er, posts short (really…promise). Best part is, you are not required to even read them.

Now, let me say right here that these reports do not intend to slander, or personally insult anyone. These “reports” are merely intended as satire and attempts at humor and irony. I’m sure all of the guys I call out are good, decent people that are just trying the best they can to do their job. So, is it fair to make fun of or poke our beloved Braves? In a word yes. In more words, hey, they make truckloads of money, they are paid to be effective and professional players and coaches, they are public figures and, last but not least…they are MY Braves. If I jab one of your favorite guys, get over it. It’s just one man’s opinion and observation. That said, if you can’t take ribbing and criticism, you should stay out of pro-sports…and blogs, for that matter.

On occasion they will make you mad. At times, they will make you cringe. On rare occasions, there may be a report that makes you throw up in your mouth. There will be times you’ll just read them, scratch your head and go, “hungh”? Or “hmmm”. Hopefully a few will make you laugh out loud. Some will drip with irony. Some will ooze with cynicism. Some may just miss the mark, but I’ll guarantee a better batting average than our Mendoza boys.

These reports have one purpose and one purpose only: they all will be selfishly intended to make myself feel better, vent, have fun and not be so damn serious about myself, you or our dysfunctional Braves team. Love hurts sometimes. These “editions” to this blog do not aspire to provide professional and accurate Braves reporting (DOB handles that quite well). Actually, they’re not intended to provide a shred of redeeming social or statistical value, depth of understanding of the game or comparative analysis (some of you provide that).

With the way things are going this year (yes I know we are only 3.5 games back) with a manager that has seen his better days (hey, I like him personally too), and the fact that we need serious trade help (yes, I know they are working on it) and the fact…FACT, that, even with the addition of a few great NEW players that play great from the get-go…we are still just a shoulder or groin pull (or thumb or toe) away from potentially losing two of our strongest players to the DL. If all goes well with the Bravos we are all happy. If not, this blog could get miserable and implode from the negativism and bickering (example…last night and earlier today). So, I plan to have a bit ‘o fun along the way and try to always remember…it’s our favorite team playing our favorite game even if it ain’t going how we want it.

If you like “The Daily Buzz”, great. If you don’t, fine (I’ll hope you like). Feel free to give me thumbs up or down if you are so inclined. If not, that’s ok too. If you would rather ignore them altogether, that shouldn’t be difficult, since I’ll clearly mark them with the Daily Buzz headline. Don’t like it? Just scroll on past with my blessing and, ahem…middle finger. These will continue until I get bored with it, it’s no longer fun, you violently protest, AJC blocks my posts or DOB asks me to cease and desist.

Expect the “Inaugural” Edition of Daily Buzz (001) shortly at a blog near you.

By TampaBrave

July 23, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Positions 1 2 & 3 are knocking the crap out of the ball. Unfortunately, they then get to either fall asleep on the bases or spend their time trying to break up the double plays.

By David O'Brien

July 23, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

Porkins, I was gonna try to get tix for the Thursday Pumpkins show, but there isn’t one. They’re playing Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday…not Thursday. And other than Thursday, every other game in this series starts at 7 p.m. out here, which means the earliest I could possibly get over there would be about 11:30 local, and that’s not early enough for a show at the Fillmore. They’re not going to start that late.

By jbutler

July 23, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

N8…great point. Julios’ best asset to the team doesn’t come on the field. He is obviously eating some special sauce somewhere that even keeps him in the game at 48…but he’s 48!!! Our family goal is to retire from our respective DESK JOBS at 50!!! Let alone rounding the bases. Cut him loose from the roster and hire him as an assistant. He can pass out rolaids.

By N8

July 23, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone

“Oh yeah, how about 45-46 since April 10th. That is about as average as a team can get…”

You’re preaching to deaf ears my friend. NOBODY out there wants to hear it. I’ve been harping the same thing for WEEKS.

I posted last night that since the beginning of 2006 we are 131-130. I’ll repeat that. In the last 261 games played the Braves are 1 game over .500!

Mediocre defined.

By Braves Fan 79

July 23, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Why in the world did we pitch to albert with 2 outs and bases empty!?? Weve given so many games away this season it makes me sick. Ahh…damnit BOBBY! Ive been saying that alot this season it seems.

By ernesto

July 23, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Cordero would be great, but if the Nats were asking for Escobar AND Salty for D. Young…what do you think they’re asking for Chad? Chipper, Smoltz and Hudson maybe.

By BB FAN

July 23, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

Just when I think Andruw has turned his season around by hitting to right field, he puts a string of 4-5 games together where he tries to pull everything pitched to him. When he was going well, he even choked up on the bat with 2 strikes.

Jones has looked awful the last 4-5 games. Don’t get me wrong, I think he has had a great career so far, but what the hell is wrong with him? Doesn’t it click that if something is working, he should keep doing it?

Why the hell does Cox keep trotting Soriano and Yates to blow games. The two of them need to spend 3-4 weeks on the DL to recover. They have been grossly overused.

The kid (Ascanio) they sent down this week should be in the big leagues. I know he got the loss the other night, but it was due to Johnson’s error. Ascanio has looked very good.

Ledezma on the other hand has been terrible. It looks like the Braves got hosed on that deal. Hopefully, Ledezma comes back strong next year, because right now, he’s useless.

I don’t like the idea of getting Garland for Renteria (Gammons has reported it’s been “talked” about). I think Vazquez is much better. But I think it’s a good idea to trade Renteria while he’s most valuable. Escobar and Johnson can then play everyday.

Johnson still has some work to do defensively at 2B but overall, he has done a great job. One can tell he will only get better with experience.

I think the biggest need for the Braves is relief help. I was thinking Cordero (from Washington) but Bowden will probably ask for Salty and Escobar in return. That guy thinks his players are worth so much more than they are. I wonder who he asked for when the Braves were interested in Dmitre Young.

Anyway, I do think the Braves can win the division, especially if they make a trade or two.

By Daybed Wagmoe

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

while escobar has looked great since his call-up, i really don’t think trading renteria for garland (or another pitcher) is a good move. sure, JS traded laroche while he was still young and coming off a great year, but renteria is a veteran who has been our most consistent hitter ALL YEAR. this move might help the rotation; it would certainly be a blow to the lineup.

By David O'Brien

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

Porkins, I was gonna try to get tix for the Thursday Pumpkins show. One problem: there isn’t a Thursday show. They’re playing Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday…not Thursday. And other than Thursday, every other game in this series starts at 7 p.m. out here, which means the earliest I could possibly get over there would be about 11:30 local, and that’s not early enough for a show at the Fillmore. They’re not going to start that late.

By GSU-Lee

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

DOB, How much merit is in the Garland/Livan rumors. And I COMPLETELY agree about the relief pitching. Dotel would look good in a Braves uni, so would Greinke

By NCBravesFan

July 23, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

IMHO - Braves brass has to be feeling the heat at the moment. The team as constituted is probably not going to win the division or the wild card. On the other hand, one more pitcher would put them in a great position to make the postseason, if not go deep into the playoffs.

Trouble is, you have to trade some high calibur prospects … and a boatload of them … to get a pitcher who’s worth a damn and will be here longer than 3 months.

My gut tells me the Braves should probably stand pat … unless they can get an impact pitcher that will be here a while. I’d be willing to trade Salty to make that happen - but not Yunel.

By Berigan (In LA for a week)

July 23, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

And people wanted to trade or release Wickman!!!

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Efrim when you are making $395,000 for a team, there is no way in he!! you can be overrated with a .290BA and 65RBI… Then again, if you want to argue he’s overrated when putting it up against a Sports Illustrated cover with the words “The Natural” on it, well then I agree…

Money aside. 65 RBI is great. .764 OPS is not. .424 Slugging Percentage isn’t great for a middle of the order hitter either. Whatever. Frenchy will be a powerhouse in a couple of years, but he isn’t there yet. And yes, I do think SI killed him with that article.

By Interested Observer

July 23, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

A few random thoughts:

1. I don’t think it matters who we have in the bullpen, Bobby will wear them out by the end of the year. But maybe someone like Jon Rauch from the Nationals would be a more reasonably priced (as in players we have to give up)alternative.

2. I would like to see that Texiera trade happen. Maybe the bullpen wouldn’t be blowing so many leads if we had bigger leads…particularly against mediocre pitchers.

3. I am against trading Renteria for Garland this year. Our offense is far too inconsistent as it is. Adding another starter and losing what little offense we have will not make us a better team for the rest of the season. This trade, however, would make some sense during the offseason provided we still have Escobar then.

By Ron

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

I cant understand why we cant get Blanton for Renteria!!! You would think that the A’s would REALLY be interested in Renteria!!! Renteria is Billy Beane’s kind of player!!! If we trade Renteria I see Blanton coming to us!!! It just makes too much sense for both teams for it not to work out!!!

By rupert

July 23, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

the braves have the offense, although i think they need to make up their mind at first, i love julio, but doesnt look like he’s got it, might be time to find an injury and sit him until the rosters expand, thorman is lost, salty is slumping a bit, but i got a feeling they are going to trade him, his value aint gonna get any higher than it right now, because this is the most atbats he’s gonna get, slaty for snell and marte from pitt would work, braves could throw in one or 2 B level prospects

By Savannah Guy

July 23, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Random thoughts:

Please do not go after Livan Hernandez. I don’t think I could ever pull for him even if he wore a Braves uniform. He is a rude, cocky cheeseburger and way past his prime anyway. I’ll never forget how he and Eric Greg’s Marlins beat us with that incredible expanding strike zone. Magically, it shrunk to half size when our pitchers were on the mound. It was a very NBA-ish game if you ask me.

Wonder if anyone has a record of how many Georgia players are drafted by the Braves and make it up to the team, often it seems over other, more qualified players that are not from our state. Seems disproportionate, but admittedly I don’t have the facts to back it up. Just watch and listen…that’s all. Do other teams try to keep it so close to home? I think not. Are we trying to be a Georgia team? Seems so.

A Jones 25 12:22: Funny stuff. Got several chuckles there.

By TennesseePaul

July 23, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

N8: I posted last night that since the beginning of 2006 we are 131-130. I’ll repeat that. In the last 261 games played the Braves are 1 game over .500
I’ve been posting every day that the Braves are 20 games under .500 since 1876. No chance in hell they’ll do anything this season…

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

July 23, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

I know some here are laughing about a proposed Renteria trade, but here is why this trade would make sense for both teams right now. For the Braves it makes sense because they need another starter I will argue more than they need Renteria. Escobar is ready to play and can take over. Relying on Carlyle and Reyes the rest of the way is not wise. Even if the Braves made the playoffs both of these guys would likely get shelled in the postseason. Besides Renteria is primed for trade bait. He is 32 years old and playing the best ball of his career. What happens if he struggles next year? He won’t be nearly as tradeable as he is right now! By acquiring Garland the Braves get a 28 year old pitcher who by the current market’s terms is cheap and would be here through ‘09.

From the White Sox’ persepective the trade makes sense because Renteria fills their need for a SS next season and they would be getting him at an economy price. He surely would be a cheaper and better option than Omar Vizquel. And, the SS free agent market will be sparse this upcoming winter. If the Sox wait until the winter to make a deal, the cost could be a lot higher than Garland. They will not only be unfilled at SS but likely at 2B because Igucci is probably not going to resign. The Braves could even throw in Prado to make the deal work along with Davies and see if the Sox would thrown in Sweeney or Owens.

When you really think about it the deal makes sense for both teams not only this season but for the next couple of seasons.

By JasonInMaine

July 23, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

If there is any truth at all to the Snell rumors, he is obviously the pitcher the Braves should focus on.

By Kevin C

July 23, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

DOB, the blog you wrote about an AL scout saying he would take Davies, any chance that might have been Texas? I would offer Davies and prospects for Tex, give a list of 3 and pick two, not Salty or Escobar. Then look at Marte from Pittsburgh and possibly Silva from Minnesota. If Gorlanzy was availble I would trade Salty for him. All is speculation of course but the bullpen is killing us now.

By Ryan

July 23, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

Why not move Escobar to the outfield next year? Escobar has a great arm and decent speed so he should have good range. Keep Kelly at second, Salty at first. Trade some minor league pitching for some bullpen help and stand pat in the rotation. Buddy hasn’t shown any reason why his success so far this year won’t translate to the postseason, and Smoltz and Hudson are pretty much assured wins. Chuck James is dependable and as long as Jo-Jo keeps churning out quality innings, hes a good number 5. All we need is some stabilization in the bullpen until Soriano or Yates can figure out what is wrong with themselves.

By Thrillhouse44

July 23, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

Who would have thought our bullpen would be our achilles heel?

By Mo in the boonies

July 23, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Matt, Ya, I remember the 91&92 NLCS. Also remember the Braves with a great team, and with Cox managing, lost three out of four WS. Any manager given the players on those teams could have won 15 division titles, and five NL pennants. They won games despite Cox, not because of him. He made enough stupid mistakes in the 1996 game that he should have been fired after the game. By the way, he became manager because he was the GM in 1990, after he fired the then manager, he appointed himself manager. His second crack at it after being fired by Turner in 1981.

This team has been on the down grade ever since JS got rid of Maddox and Glavine, thank God they still kept Smoltz. Now they have the makings of a good team if only JS would loosen the purse strings, and get someone decent to add to the pitching. Both Starters and bullpen. How JS and Cox could have imagined that this bullpen could win games is beyond me And Cox could settle on a starting team, and quit playing musical chairs with all the positions on the team. No one gets a chance to settle into a groove, and it is almost certain that if they are hitting in one game, they can pretty much plan on sitting on the bench the next game. What the he## is that all about. Not my ideal of a brilliant manager. And who’s bright idea was it to get Franco back? The last thing this team needs is another position player. I’d like to put Diaz on first to see if he can handle it. I’m still a Braves fan, but I’m sick of Cox playing his cronies. I’m sick of Cox, period. If that qualifies me for silly, so be it.

By N8

July 23, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

TennPaul

Earlier I posted this to Don C.:

“You’re preaching to deaf ears my friend. NOBODY out there wants to hear it. I’ve been harping the same thing for WEEKS.”

You posting the following, whether you like it or not, just gave my comment more merit:

“I’ve been posting every day that the Braves are 20 games under .500 since 1876. No chance in hell they’ll do anything this season…”

Thank you. Well done.

By bravesfan

July 23, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

The Braves are doing just like the Falcons did the season started off with division teams and they got off to a great start and then they were awful. SO I BET YALL THIS SEASON IS OVER

By knowitall

July 23, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Julio is playing so that the Braves can get a look at him before the trading deadline. They signed him for next to nothing so it was worth the risk to take a look at him for a couple of weeks to see if you can possibly fill the void at first base without having to give up any prospects. We already know that he’s probably not going to perform well in a pinch hitting role since that’s basically what he was in NY. I think the Braves are trying to see if his swing will come around if he plays everyday or if they need to make another move at the deadline.

By TommyP

July 23, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

Well, they’d trade Renteria if they could get an impact starter, which Garland’s certainly been in the past (throw out this year’s results, which aren’t great but aren’t bad, either; that Sox team is a mess).

You confuse me, DOB.

You tout Garland as an impact pitcher in the past despite a tough year THIS year yet talked about how overrated Buerhle was back when he was involved in trade talks. You consistently pointed out that Buerhle hadn’t been that good since the beginning of last year. (last year was simply a down year but you tried to make it out as something more)

You’re talking out your a*, man.

Garland’s had ONE very good year. You’re saying to “throw out this year’s stats” but this is shaping up at his 2nd best year in 6 years!

Buerhle and Garland…there’s no comparison who is better.

By JAYSEN

July 23, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

The next time Salty is up with the bases loaded…PINCH HIT!!! It seems like he bats with the bases loaded every other game, but does nothing in those situations. Rookie or not, I’m tired of seeing him leaving them loaded.

By Harvey

July 23, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

get rid of yates another one from the mets thrash pile. before allstar break chip said he needed the rest 5 days off everybodys hitting his 95 fastball bring devine back give a chance instead off yates

By fleming

July 23, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

Is there any possibility of moving Chipper to first and Escobar to 3rd

By iwalterp

July 23, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

The only logical reason Franco has started the last 2 games for the Braves is that JS and BC wanted to see for themselves if he had anything left before the trade deadline. I like the resigning of Franco as a late innings sub for Salty for defensive reasons and as an occasional pinch hitter against lefty’s and as an unoffical bench coach, but not as a regular or as a platoon player. The Mets were right he can’t catch up with the fast ball anymore. Bring up Pena as backup catcher and release Woodward. Harris can play 2nd and so can Escobar as backups. I fear that JS will again trade the future of the Braves (Salty & Escobar) for a rent-a-player for a year. I didn’t think he would trade Betimit last year and he did, and got nothing basically in return. The Braves are not a championship club this year, as much as we would like them to be. They could be a legitimate contender next year with a starting staff of Smoltz,Hudson,James,Reyes and Davies/Harrison/other as fifth starter. Both James and Reyes need the remainder of this year as seasoning for nexr year. Please, JS just trade a couple of lower level minor league players for a serviceable starter like Trachel, who can eat up innings and keep team in the game. Don’t give Salty or Escobar away for another rent-a-player. The fans are back because of the excitement these young guys bring to the team. Not because they long to see Franco play 1st base or Andruw play center field and remain instant rally killers.

By Ron Roberts

July 23, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Lemme try again…

Maybe I should sandwich my baseball relevant question between to freakin’ music questions to get a reply….

1. DO’B heard the new Paul McCartney album?

2. DO’B has Matty D. taken any infield or has there been any discussion within the organization about playing him everyday at 1B with Willie playing everyday at LF?

3. DO’B did ya ever get your hands on the new Marc Broussard CD? Heard it’s a cool collectin of cover tunes. Guy’s great in person if ya ever get a chance.

By chris

July 23, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Did anyone notice that we had the lead-off man on in every inning from the 4-7th (after the 4th inning HR)and didn’t score. Franco’s DP really hurt. I am a stickler for pitching but I honestly believe that we need a 1b more than a 3rd starter. If we make the playoffs, I’d take my chances on Smotlz, Hudson, and James. I am surprised that Franco is playing so much. Like DOB, I was mildly in favor of his signing as a PH and rare starter. The guy who suggested Diaz at 1b may be on to something. I also believe we have enough in our pen and that they are simply slumping, though a better lefty would definetly help. But 1b is the real priority.

Chris from MD

By geronimo

July 23, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

You fans are a fickle bunch! One month ago everyone on the blog wanted Soriano to be the closer over Wickman, well i guess you are all rethinking that one. Let’s face it, right now Soriano is a one pitch pitcher, no let’s make that a one pitch thrower. He really has no idea where it’s going, not that he’s wild or anything. It would almost be better if he was a little more wilder than he is. opposing batters couldn’t dig in as much against him. Maybe earlier in the season the batters were a little tardy on his heater, but now that they are good and loosened up thay are jumping on it. No pitcher can get by continually with just a fastball, especially one that is as straight as Soriano’s. If I were Mcdowell I would work with him on his slider untill his arm fell off. He would never get by in a playoff game with one pitch.

By Ron Roberts

July 23, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

No Chop…

Dude, you are aware that our goal is to keep ourselves about 2 to 3 games back of y’all so that when we go 6-3 against your motley collection of patch-job pitchers and AAA call-ups in the outfield, we either catch up or surpass you, right?

Hell, bring Moises and Pedro back, if ya want. He was mediocre before his injury, last year, and we beat ya when ya did have Moises.

Nine games left against your precious Mutts. We were 6-3 the first nine, and that’s when we didn’t have a decent #4 starter and Andruw wasn’t hitting as decent as he is now.

By Chop Chop

July 23, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Looks like I’ll be joining the scribe ranks in the future. I pre-registered for school and changed my major to Journalism, which is what I originally planned to do back in 1999…hahahaha. My college “career”, such as it is, has been sidetracked by many amazing adventures. However, I’m baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaack! I’m back in the saddle again. Yes, I’m baaaaaaaaaaaaaack!

I’m 27, but it’s never too late to find your calling, denizens.

By Savannah Guy

July 23, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

Pretty scary stuff

There are so many trade options and manager issues on this blog that it’s not even a chess game any more. It’s more like a gang-bang. A “Cluster Flok”. It’s getting hard to sort through all of the roster ideas and trade moves being proffered here. Most everyone is right to some extent and wrong…to the same or greater extent. Not a criticism mind you…just interesting…in a roller derby kinda way. Scary.

One thing is certain. We will trust that Schuerholz, Liberty and Bobby Cox will make all the right moves this year, right? Scary.

There is no magic bullet. A starting pitcher would be great. Then what happens in innings 7-9? Same as lately? What happens when we leave a dozen on base and plate 2? Scary.

So we have some talent on this team. But we have a great catcher that became a mediocre 1st baseman. We have a loveable new first baseman that is 49 yeas old, not hitting well and starting every game. We have a cleanup hitter that can’t clean anything up. We have an All-star caliber left fielder that sits on the bench. We have a setup man whose wheels have come off. We have a closer that is so big he’s going to have to start throwing side-armed. Scary.

We have a successful old manager that everyone likes and respects (especially the players) that seems to have forgotten the meaning of timing and strategy. That is more noticeable since we don’t have dominating starting pitching and the good leftovers of a 90’s farm system. Scary.

We have Liberty Media. We have player recruitment scouts that seem to be suffering from agoraphobia (see Georgia players first and last). We have Chipper and Smoltz that aren’t spring chickens who could, at any time this season, go on the DL with elbows, shoulders, groins, toes or thumbs. We have an MLB economy where no team needs money enough to let go of good players at the top of their game. Scary.

Well, we have a lot of pieces to this old puzzle. One good thing though…we have the Mets in front of us. There is a chance after all. Hope springs eternal. Just hope it’s not next spring.

By Paladin

July 23, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

Me n’ Lamont Cranston have been lurking here in the shadows today, whilst you guys(and gals) have blogged away. I had nothing “new” to add, so I stayed out.

But, hasn’t it beeen related on here, several times, about poking through the horse manure looking for the pony? As an old gentleman who worked in our yard(for whom I had the greatest respect)use to say: “Somes put it in; somes take it out.” Sounds about right to me.

C’y’all tomorrow—-maybe.

By TheCutMan

July 23, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

The Braves’ answer lies within. No need for trading excellent futures talent for ‘maybe’ remedies.

Coming to grips with what IS and building a strategy around it, adapting and maximizing the talent on hand, as opposed to what might be, is where future success lies. Remember that.

By NRBQ

July 23, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

Maybe if Bobby didn’t yank Chuck James while he was throwing a 2-hit shut out, or while he was locked in a 1-1 pitching dual having allowed three hits in his next start, the bullpen wouldn’t be quite so overworked.

By StingerSplash

July 23, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

So is “Old Man” for Julio or for the king of flaxseed oil?

By jon

July 23, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

DOB….you said bonds hasnt homered off of smoltz since 98..thats not true…he CRUSHED a ball off of him in the playoffs a few years back when Smotlz was a closer. We were up by a good margin and it was obvious he was trying to throw a fastball by him

By Paul In Richmond

July 23, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

I cannot believe the number of braves fans who are myopic about our offense. We have almost no production out of our first base position (which is supposed to be a power position) and out of our center fielder who is flirting with the Mendoza line and almost never gives us clutch hitting.

Same is true for our on again off again third baseman.

Gripe about bullpen but if these three spots were producing there would be no reason to whine about a one run lead being blown - we would be piling up runs against these weak teams and we would be leading the east.

Further, if we trade Rentaria or Saltalamachhia or even Diaz or Johnson we had better come up with something at least as good offensively or we will be trying to win 1-0 and 2-1 games all the way up to when we get our a$$ whipped in the playoffs.

No - we need someone who can play first and hit. We need to have the hitters in the lineup every day. We need to arrange the line up based upon July 2007 hitting NOT based upon what they might do or they used to do. nuf sed.

By Lew

July 23, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

The Braves are not playing to their capabilities. Of that there is no doubt. They have areas on all fronts that could stand better performances. Of that there’s no doubt. They could use some steady play at first. They could use some fresh bullpen arms. They could use a reliable number 5 starter. But anyone who says we have no chance is an utter moron. Exactly what part of only 3 1/2 games out of first with 70 left to play fails to register? What part of the Mets (our only real competition) playing sub .500 ball for better than half the season fails to register? That’s right. Since May 20, the Mets are 27-29. Well, Whoopee Sh!t!!! They aren’t running away with anything. Just because NoBrain Zone comes on our blog and thumps his private parts about how great the Mets are just doesn’t make it so. I’ve heard, I don’t know how many times, that we’re lucky the Mets haven’t run away with the division. I prefer to look at it as the Mets are damn lucky THE BRAVES haven’t run away with the whole thing. Time to get your heads out of your anal cavaties and start looking at things the right way. Hell of a bunch of fans y’all are. Y’all act as if we’re 20 games back with 21 to play. Sheesh.

By Tyler

July 23, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Livan Hernandez would be an excellent addition to the Braves.

1. He would eat up plenty of innings, taking a load off of our bullpen’s shoulders.

2. He would be AT WORST a good 5 starter, and can be at least as good as a 3 starter, and a solid 4 starter if we had to.

3. We wouldn’t have to give up as much to get him. If we gave up Saltalamaccia or Escobar, we would likely get another player in the trade as well. (Hopefully Juan Cruz or a lefty reliever like Doug Slaten)

I’m also absolutely in favor of getting Texiera, as long as we get a contract with it, minimum 3 years. I would give up Saltalamaccia for him, and our 1B would be set, and we still have McCann obviously. After this year, if Lillbrige looks ready, we could trade Renteria or Escobar, and have one start and have Lillbridge back them up and keep Kelly at 2B.

By Yars

July 23, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

Bobby needs to keep Kelly Johnson in the #5 hole. He’s too good to be hitting in the #7 spot, & isn’t your typical leadoff hitter. He should be playing everyday at 2B. He has future all star written all over him. By Atlanta even thinking about trading Renteria, it obviously means they envision Escobar as their everyday SS next season. Both Lillibridge & Elvis are still couple years away. Whether they keep KJ at 2B or throw him back into LF is anyones guess right now. An OF of Johnson/Brandon Jones/Francoeur in ‘08 could produce some big numbers. I think KJ & Frenchy will only get better, & B. Jones will be exciting to watch, & could possibly be one of those 20/20 type players in the near future.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

July 23, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

Paul in Richmond, do you actually read the crap you type. What are you talking about Chipper not performing in the clutch. Where do you think this team would be without Chipper and where would they be had Chipper been in the linuep the entire season? You guys and your Chipper bashing is getting old and is just plain stupid.

By TennesseePaul

July 23, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

N8: Your comment has absolutely no merit. It does not matter in the least what happened in season’s pasts when it comes to the standings this season. But since you insist on posting about sums of the Win and Loss column from previous years, I don’t understand why you stop with 2006.
Why not go back to 1876? There is no hope, 22 games under .500. Forfeit the season!
How about since 1991? OH YEAH! Braves are 501 games over .500 They rule the world!
Let’s get more articulate, subtract out all the winning seasons… The Braves are now 1,597 games under .500. THE SKY IS FALLING!! Trade McCann and rebuild!!
Let’s only sum up the winning seasons… 1,740 over .500! The World Series is ours!!!
Since 2006, 1 game over .500, they blow, trade all the major players and the minor one. Take down the flags. Close the gates. Boycott the stadium!
How about we go back to the point the Braves website lists…Since 1871 the Braves are 143 games over .500. We’re going to win this season and there ain’t nothin’ going to stop us!
Here’s a marvel idea, let’s look at 2007, the Braves are 5 games over .500 and 3.5 out of first in Mid-July… there is some hope.

You can complain all you want about the team, I don’t mind. But why on earth you would make such a pointless argument is beyond me. Typically you have descent rants, but that one is absolutely merit-less.

By BamaBrave

July 23, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Don’t agree with your accessment, Paul. We’re in the top third in MLB offense. That’s not too shabby. Could 1st be better? Of course. Could Andruw come out of this coma? Let’s hope.

The problem now is that we’re right back where we were in 2005 and 2006…decent starting pitching, adequate offensive punch on average… But we now have Soriano playing the role of Reitsma, and Wickman playing Kolb/Reitsma. The rest of the bullpen? The same bunch of tired-arm retreads. Other that brief flashes of brilliance with Moylan, we’re really now no better off than we were with the likes of John Foster, Adam Bernero, Ken Ray, Phil Stockman, etc. ad nauseum…

Injuries have killed us…

By TennesseePaul

July 23, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

Same is true for our on again off again third baseman

Not sure what this means… Is that 1.000 OPS not good enough? Perhaps that .400+ OBP. Or maybe the .340+ Average? Or are we thinking about the DL trip from a couple of months ago? 3B production is not a concern. Even when Chipper is not in the game Escobar fills in rather well.

By Travis

July 23, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this

so far this season barry bonds is 3 for 3 in his quest to spite the media by sitting out all Giants games ESPN has picked up this year. Seeing as our game got picked up tonight by ESPN 2 maybe we’ll get lucky and he’ll do it again.

By Colin

July 23, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

BP…

     **Thats WHY WE LOSE**

By az_braves_fan

July 23, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

Hey Robert - Amen bro. Chipper has been raking all year!

By Luther

July 23, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

Mo- How JS and Cox could have imagined that this bullpen could win games is beyond me And Cox could settle on a starting team, and quit playing musical chairs with all the positions on the team. No one gets a chance to settle into a groove,

I think most people thought the bullpen was going to be fine and it was for most of the first half. Gonzalez got hurt, Soriano and Yates uexpectedly fell apart and now its in trouble.

Both players in the left field platoon are hitting above .330 and Kelly and Escobar have thrived since the platoon. I would even say both positions are in a groove. The place where the platoon has not worked is 1st base, but at the same time cox tried to hand the job to Thorman for most of the season, but he was not up to it.

By Click 5

July 23, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this

Seems like just yesterday good old Joe Simpson was saying Soriano hadn’t given up many runs in crucial situations. Knowing Joe, he’s probably still saying it. He doesn’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings.

By Ron Roberts

July 23, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this

BamaBrave… are fairly good as our offense has been, it’s also been fairly inconsistent.

We hit well at times and we go in droughts. We score 14 runs one game, 2 runs the next.

Every team has ebbs and flows, but what some are trying to view as a strength for this team is no more consistent as a streaky starting pitcher; one who’s dominant one game, and gives up 6 in 3 innings the next start. That’s not a strength.

If we had decent production at 1B and got what we were used to getting out of Andruw, this would be a first-place team built primarily the way the Mets envisioned winning… with more than enough offense and just enough pitching.

But we aren’t consistent enough on offense to disregard improving it.

The bullpen needs addressing, yes; but the offense isn’t immune to being tinkered with.

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

Lew,

You have to admit, going 5-5 against those teams is a downer. The Mets padded their lead despite going to the West Coast. We now are on our way to the West Coast to face a team that has a below average offense to say the least, but has three really good starting pitchers. It is a bad matchup. With the way our bullpen is going, we need to clobber the opposing teams starters to win the game. Cain, Lincecum and Lowry are tough. To be honest with you, a split isn’t enough. We need to win this series and the next. To me, after going 2-5 against the Reds and Cardinals, I would like to think the goal is 5-2 against the Giants and D-Backs. Nothing less. Of course, the way the bullpen is going, I can see us going a sluggish 3-4. Oh well.

By Ron

July 23, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

Robert(JISB) Dude do you ACTUALLY read the crap you type? I mean come on dude, you and some of your CRAZY trade proposals that you wrote today!!! If you were GM this team would be WORST than the DAMN Royals!!! And the Dude does have a point about Chipper!!! I dont know what Chippers hitting with runners in position NOW, but early in June, he was hitting about .195 with runners in scoring position!!! No doubt if it is not for Chipper we are trading players away INSTEAD of trying to trade young players for a push at the playoffs!!! I just had to mention that because DONT be talking about someone else’s crap when YOUR CRAP is WAY WORST THAN HIS comments!!!!!

By Amber

July 23, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

How long do you think we have before Soriano is DL’ed? That’s what usually follows strangely crappy performances from pitchers, right?

Weren’t we supposed to “make hay” on this homestand? I know I’m not the only person who’s noticed how badly the Braves play against teams they’re supposed to pound. So I won’t believe that SF is favorable to us until I see the four final scores.

By David O'Brien

July 23, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

Jon, yes, in the 2002 postseason. But as you know, those don’t count in official stats. Those are postseason stats. But yes, he did homer off him, in a game the Braves had in hand, if I remember correctly.

By TC

July 23, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

DOB —

If you’re feeling the need for some late night tunes, might I suggest going to the Boom Boom Room (John Lee Hooker’s old club). It’s across the street from the Fillmore.

Tomorrow night, the show is SICK!! — STANTON MOORE TRIO (R.Walter/W.Bernard/S.Moore) Date: Tuesday, July 24th 2007 Time: 9:45 PM - 2:00 AM Location: BooM BooM RooM

“infectious, jazz-meets-Bonham, nouveau second-line: ‘features organist Robert Walter (Greyboy Allstars, The Head Hunters), guitarist Will Bernard (T.J. Kirk, Doctor Lonnie Smith) and drummer Stanton Moore (Galactic) along with special guests.”

Then there’s always Galactic at the Independent on Thursday night too

By N8

July 23, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul

The roster this year is very close to the roster of last year. So I think last year’s results added with this year’s results, give us a pretty good pulse on what this team is cable of.

If you don’t, that’s your problem, NOT MINE!

But if you insist on comparing this team with the ones that had Maddux, Glavine and Smoltz in the rotation, feel free.

If you want to be more specific to what THIS ROSTER is capable of, we are 27-33 since Mike Gonzalez last pitched.

JS did NOTHING to fix the rotation in the offseason. He attempted to fix last year’s downfall….THE BULLPEN.

So, as I’ve said 1000 times. IMO, unless something drastic is done to fix this roster, we have no shot at catching the Mets. Or holding off the Phillies, for those of you that think the Mets are as mediocre as us.

Do we have a “chance”? Sure. Anything could happen. Andruw could start driving the ball to RF. Thorman could become a big league hitter. Julio might run into a Zoltar maching and become a kid again. Soriano might find what he’s lost.

Anything is possible. But recent track records (HOWEVER far back TennPaul is willing to go), show that this team as it’s currently constructed has NO CLUE on how to win consistantly, especially against lesser teams.

By Colin

July 23, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this

How does this sound…WE DONT USE SORIANO TONIGHT AT ALL!!!!WE WIN AND OUR BP PITCHES 1 INNING INSTEAD OF THERE NORMAL 4

By SR

July 23, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this

TC, nice tips bro.

Boom Boom Room and Independent, sweet venues. If DOB makes it to Independent, he can try to get into NOPA for dinner. Excellent food and vibe there.

By DonCoburleone

July 23, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this

“But recent track records (HOWEVER far back TennPaul is willing to go), show that this team as it’s currently constructed has NO CLUE on how to win consistantly, especially against lesser teams.”

100% agree. Certain changes need to be made or we will be slightly above .500 all year long. It is time to figure out what is our most glaring need, our 2nd most, and so on and then try to improve incrementally from our most glaring problem to the least… I know JS will not say so publicly, but DOB what do you think JS has penciled in as his #1 need right now?

By A-ville Ranger

July 23, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this

To those who say Bonds is a cheater (I do) and still tune in tonight here’s a thought. I’ve heard sports commentators say time and again that we’ll buy into whatever they sell.Are we really that weak ? I’m not watching this series unless Bonds is sitting it out.I’m not suggesting anybody else follow suit.I’m not saying I’ll respect you in the morning either.

By knowitall

July 23, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

Click 5, I have to respectfully disagree with you regarding Joe Simpson. Simpson regularly critizies players for not doing the right things in certain situations. He always critizies them for their inability to get runners over to third with less than two outs or trying to hit a home run when a single will do the job.

By TennesseePaul

July 23, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

The roster this year is very close to the roster of last year.

N8: That was a little more articulate and well found. However, I disagree with the line italicized above. I don’t think the team is that close to last season. I think this team is actually better than last seasons team and so far, they have played better than last season.

Last season at this time the team was 46-51. I didn’t know this until I just now looked it up. But it’s rather ironic that it’s an inverse of the current standings.

Complain as you will about this season and this teams actions, but pulling in previous years just seems pointless, as those years don’t affect in any way the out come on this year.

As for JS not doing anything… Well we’ll see. He still has time. Perhaps the miracle deal will get done rendering all critques pointless. I don’t know.

By N8

July 23, 2007 6:48 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul

“You can complain all you want about the team, I don’t mind.”

Let’s get one thing straight. I complain A LOT. I get it. But how in the hell is stating what their record is from a certain point of the season “complaining” and not just stating fact?

We’re coming off of 3 straight series of playing essentially .500 ball against 3 teams with a combined record of 127-164, tell me again WHY I’m supposed to have ANY confidence in this team?

Again (for the record), not “complaining” just stating facts, and asking a legitimate question. I’m not trying to rain on anybody’s parade, I really, honestly wanna know why all the homers “have a feeling” we’ll pull this out. So I can go to the store and purchase some of the same elixir that y’all are drinking.

By Wink from Lithonia

July 23, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

Barry breaks the record against the Braves during this series. Barry will break record because Braves pitching is just what he needs. They only have to get into our bullpen. I personally would like him to break the record against the Braves, due mostly to the comments from the record holder…Mr Aaron. Not sure why he is so cold toward Barry. Surely he can understand what scrutiny Barry is under, different circumstances, but he had similar pressure on him while chasing Babe’s record. His was more racial tension and Barry’s is suspicion of performance enhansing supplements. A lot of talk has been made of Barry hitting all these home runs after turning 40, but he does not have the record for that. He still needs 2 homeruns to surpass Carlton Fisk who hit 42-43 homers after he turned 40. Should we be a little suspicious of Mr Fisk? Just asking?????? You still need hand eye coordination to be successful major league level, that why Julio Franco is still able to play. How fitting in my mind it would be for Barry Bonds to break the record against the Braves as long as the Giant lose the game…I am okay with that. Here’s hoping the Hammer will send a nice message when the record does fall since he want be in attendance!

By Ben

July 23, 2007 6:54 PM | Link to this

Why all the fuss over Soriano, a setup man? Admittedly, he has been downright bad the last week or so, but I recall another reliever in the bullpen who has been just as bad latlely: BOB WICKMAN! I don’t understand how you can call for Bobby to sit Soriano when he’s been going to Wickman over and over again and Wickman has continued to be hit over and over again, even though not necessarily losing the game everytime out. He has been horrible for the past month or so, just hasn’t been right since he’s come off the DL. If you’re going to call for Soriano to sit, you should call for Wickman to be done as the closer.

By N8

July 23, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul

As per you 6:42: Glad I could clarify my stance (If I actually have one).

As for the roster from last year to this? The every day players are essentially the same. Noticable changes are Diaz’ platoon partner in LF, LaRoche, and the Giles for KJ swap. Obviously having Wickman for the entire year has helped. Then we have the bench players.

So I hear you that the bench (which IMO, seperates the bad from the good, from the great teams), is considerably different from last year.

Lew

“The Braves are not playing to their capabilities.”

You may be right, you may be wrong. If we are to have any hope, one would have to hope that you are right, as per then it could be “turned around”.

But let me ask you this: If after 99 games a team STILL hasn’t played to it’s “capabilities”, then who do you think should shoulder the blame?

By woogidy

July 23, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

DOB, what do the think the chances are the Braves take a flyer on Scott Olsen?

By Savannah Guy

July 23, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this

The Daily Buzz (Fly on Wall Report No. 001)

Words and phrases NOT heard in recent meetings between Terry McGuirk, John Schuerholz and Liberty Media:*

Hitting; Pitching; Winning; Pennant race; New Player Prospects; Manager and Coach Accountability; Game Plays; Scores; Team Standings; Potential Trades; Competitiveness; Bobby Cox.

Words and phrases that WERE heard in the meetings:

Balance Sheets; TV Rights; Media Properties; Stock Price; Equity Plays; Ticket Sales; Hot Dog Sales; Beer Sales; Partnerships; Franchise Expenses; Atlanta and Denver Restaurants; JS Book Reprints; Golf; Yachts; Exotic Vacations.

The Fly added: like me in soup or ointment?

By DonCoburleone

July 23, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this

“If you’re going to call for Soriano to sit, you should call for Wickman to be done as the closer.”

What are you talking about? Soriano has been directly responsible for 3 losses in the past 2 weeks (meaning he was in in the 8th inning of a tie game or a game where we had the lead and the Braves ended up losing). 3 GAMES IN 2 WEEKS!

By Lew

July 23, 2007 7:07 PM | Link to this

Efrim-Yes, like I said, there are areas that need attention. Yes, a 5-5 homestand is disappointing. BUT WE’RE NOT OUT OF IT!!!!-Far from it. That is the point I’ve been trying to hammer through some of the thicker skulls on the blog. There have been some declaring the whole thing over (Demolished By The Wrecking Ball) a full month ago. There are others that are so down on the team that they think a last place hopeless team type firesale is appropriate. God help us if we were really behind the eight ball instead of 3 1/2 games behind a team playing sub .500 ball for more than two months.

By Chad

July 23, 2007 7:07 PM | Link to this

DOB, Has Jason Heyward signed yet? If not do you know if they are close to coming to terms?

By N8

July 23, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

TennPaul

“Perhaps the miracle deal will get done rendering all critques pointless. I don’t know.”

That’s exactly what it comes to. Yes, he still has time to make a move.

I really honestly think that this team is only 2 moves away from being able to run away with it (unless the Mets make a counter move - which I’m guessing they will).

I think we need bullpen help BIG TIME. I honestly think that if Chuck can go 6-7 each time out, and Carlyle just keeps doing what he’s doing, the rotation will be fine. Jo-Jo seems to be a nice fit in the 5th spot, but kinda hard to get a good read after 3 big league starts (see Kyle Davies).

We need a 1B plain and simple. Do I have a problem keeping Salty and “turning him into” the everyday 1B for next year, over the winter? Absolutely not. I think he’ll be a good to great big league hitter, maybe as soon as next year.

But if (BIG IF), JS is legitimately trying to make a run at it this year, neither Salty, Thorman and certainly not Julio are gonna cut it. Of those 3 Salty is the best option, but with his tailspin as of late, his reliability (this year) is fading.

Two weeks ago, I would’ve said ABSOLUTELY that we need a starter and maybe a LHRP to get lefties out. But with the emergence of Buddy and Jo-Jo, I’m actually comfy with this rotation.

But that bullpen……

By A-ville Ranger

July 23, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

Wink Taken in isolation your comparison of Bonds’ numbers to Fisk is compelling.You do leave out one thing though….THE MOUNTAIN CIRCUMSTANTIAL OF EVIDENCE THAT SAYS BONDS CHEATED.By all means though don’t let facts get in the way of your story.

By SNIPER-69

July 23, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this

Maybe last year wasn’t a fluke. They played 4-5 games below .500 then went out and picked up some releivers to get them about 10 games better in 2007 and that’s what you got Brave fans. The NL East has improved as well making it tough for current brave fans to stop living in the past and deal with reality.

By Savannah Guy

July 23, 2007 7:21 PM | Link to this

THE INAUGURAL ISSUE

The Daily Buzz (Fly on Wall Report No. 001)

(Reporting from a wall in the executive conference room high atop the Liberty Media corporate offices)

Words and phrases NOT heard in recent meetings between Terry McGuirk, John Schuerholz and Liberty Media:

Hitting; Pitching; Winning; Pennant race; New Player Prospects; Manager and Coach Accountability; Game Plays; Scores; Team Standings; Potential Trades; Competitiveness; Bobby Cox.

Words and phrases that WERE heard in the meetings:

Balance Sheets; TV Rights; Media Properties; Stock Price; Equity Plays; Ticket Sales; Hot Dog Sales; Beer Sales; Partnerships; Franchise Expenses; Atlanta and Denver Restaurants; JS Book Reprints; Golf; Yachts; Exotic Vacations.

The Fly added: like me in soup or ointment?

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 23, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this

If the braves are 3.5 games behind a team that has played less that .500 ball for the last two months then what does that say about the braves LEW? And don’t give me that crap about the braves just needing a good run or a big trade by July 31st because you can say that about the Mets too.

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

Lew,

I agree, we are not out of it. There are 63 games left, 18 of which are against the Phillies and Mets. I really think we need to start to play consistent baseball tonight. It is important that we give Moylan the 8th inning until Soriano gets his head straight. We need to win the next 4 series. I can’t stress that enough. There is no reason we shouldn’t. 3 out of 4 against the Giants, 2 out of 3 against the D-Backs, 2 out of 3 against the Astros, and 2 out of 3 against the Rockies. Our record would be 61-51 after that stretch. Again, we should be able to do that. A playoff team should be able to handle these teams.

By Superman

July 23, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

I just say dob on espnews. Whats funny is I never knew what ya looked like. Its kinda nice to finally have face to go with the blog. lol

By D-Cider

July 23, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

HEY DOB!! looking good on ESPN news! and you’re right, they were a couple of days late on how Andruw is turning it around! last night, bad news!!

By Superman

July 23, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

But I was hoping for a shout out for the DOB MIB blog….Wheres the love?

By Colin

July 23, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

LEW

You are right...we should do everything you said, but the question is can we with our BP?

By DonCoburleone

July 23, 2007 7:54 PM | Link to this

Anybody else notice that Tony Pena Jr. is hitting .284 for the Royals and he’s been starting all year? Of course his .297OBP is awful but (as we learned with Francoeur) patience can be learned at the major league level… I just don’t get his defense, he is supposed to be a whiz with the glove right? He’s got 16 errors on the season and a mediocre .963 fielding %… Anyway, I guess my point is that if we can just throwaway a shortstop who can hit .284 over half a season in the AL Central, then we really are loaded in middle infield prospects aren’t we?

By N8

July 23, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

Efrim

“There is no reason we shouldn’t. 3 out of 4 against the Giants, 2 out of 3 against the D-Backs, 2 out of 3 against the Astros, and 2 out of 3 against the Rockies.”

The same as there is NO REASON to play the way we just played against the Reds and Cardinals?

You’re expecting essentially a .500 team to go 9-4 on the upcoming road trip? Pipe dream, dude. Pipedream.

By DonCoburleone

July 23, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

Dangit! I missed DOB on ESPNEWS??? What a bummer… By chance did anyone record it and put it on YouTube??? If so, please post it on this blog… Anyway, talk to ya’ll later when this blog is either questioning where the WS parade will be held; or how long until the Nat’s overtake us for last place in the division….

By David-ATL14

July 23, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

Good stuff from the Fly on the daily Buzz.

By N8

July 23, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone

It’s ESPNnews, they’ll probably repeat it about 70 times before the night is over. :-)

By TennesseePaul

July 23, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

N8: I agree. Bullpen help would be a blessing. Gonzo going down early was not pleasing but at least we still have control over the guy for a while so the future isn’t so dim.

Letting the starters go that 1 extra inning would be of big help to the pen. 90-95 pitches, to me, is not the time to pull out the starter. 105-110, that’d be more like it. And that gives the starter about 1 more inning which in turn saves the pen for about 1 more inning.

I understand the early season moves. Cox doesn’t desire to over work his guys right out of the gate. But this same mentality over exposes the bullpen. No matter what these guys say about stamina and strength, the fact is, they are out there all the time which makes them more known and more scouted and therefore more exposed. That doesn’t help. By this time of year the starter should be able to throw at least 100 pitches. If leo had guys throwing 120+ and we had nary an injury, then perhaps there is merit to that approach. Though again, I’d imagine the majority of the pitchers durability is based more on genetics than pitch counts.

First base help wouldn’t be bad either. I was really hoping Woodward would be dropped and Franco added. I can tolerate Franco on the bench, but not Woodward. That guy just bums me out.

By Superman

July 23, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

sorry i should have used my tivo on the dob interview but i wouldnt know how to get it from tivo to youtube anyway oh well

By JasonInMaine

July 23, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

Shoot, just missed ya on ESPN DOB! It would have been cool to see. I always enjoyed listening to you on XM.

Regards,

Jason

By Salty

July 23, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this

Hey, Lew

Don’t ya just hate when folks ask you a question, but give you answers you can’t use?

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

N8

It is asking a lot, I guess. But if this team wants to win the division, they have to start winning series on a consistent basis.

By Bad Luck SchleppRock

July 23, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this

Wowsy wowsy woo woo. What are the Braves to do? They stayed up late and blew out their pen. Odds are great they’ll do it again….

All Hail the new Homerun King Barry Bonds!!!

By TennesseePaul

July 23, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this

I have yet to see DOB in action, and I don’t get ESPNews. I’d like to see the action that is DOB, but I don’t think I’m going to order ESPNews for it. They aren’t going to suck me in that easy. YOU’LL HAVE TO DO BETTER THAN THAT ESPN!

N8: Catching up on the posts… I think this pen is better than last seasons as well. Recently, not so much, but over all, if I had a choice of last years pen or this years, I’m takin’ this year without hesitation.
When it comes to the starters from last year to this year, I’m taking this year without hesitation.
Same goes with this line up.
This team has it’s flaws, I don’t deny that, but so far no team in the East has shown the ability to run away with it. The only part of this that is frustrating to me is, I think the Braves should run away with it. But, for reasons in the previous post, it ain’t happening.

I’m fairly confident JS will get some sort of deal done. We are in a much better position this season than last year. But we’ll see. I know he’s looking for a good deal. This team, even with its flaws, has the potential to take off as is. And this team, as is, offers more hope for next year. So no deal, to me, is better than a bad deal, but hopefully JS finds the good deal.

By David O'Brien

July 23, 2007 8:30 PM | Link to this

Julio’s in the lineup again tonight, along with the regulars, Harris leading off, Kelly hitting seventh, Julio eighth.

Oh, and Bonds isn’t playing.

Just kidding. He’s in there.

TC, Boom Boom Room, cool place.

We’re gonna try to get over to see Hank III tomorrow night at a local club (forget which one), if we can get outta here in time. He’s not going on before 11, but still might be too early unless we get a quick game. Dave Sheinin from the Washington Post is a big Hank III fan, too, and he’s here covering Bonds (with about 300 other reporters; the place is as crowded as it was for All-Star Game, media-wise).

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 23, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

Evening denizens, Whew…. Long day at the Diamond. The R Braves finished a game that was suspended due to a bomb scare plus another nine innings. Six hours at the ballpark is rough on an old guy like me. However, as promised I thought I would give you all a little glimpse of what you can look forward to.

I will not post it all but space it out a bit. The first game began at the top of the sixth with Toledo up 6-0. Seems like Kevin Barry had a tough time finding the strike zone in the first inning and allowed 5 runs to score on only two hits. Rumors to the effect that Barry was the one who phoned in the bomb threat have proved unfounded but for my money, he remains a person of interest. I would not expect to see Kevin in an Atlanta uniform anytime soon.

Trey Hodges picked it up for the home team today. He gave up one run over four innings and turned in what I would call a yeoman’s performance. While he was not exactly lights out, he did stay out of trouble for the most part. Again, a ticket to Atlanta is probably not in the cards.

By JasonInMaine

July 23, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

DOB, Julio is starting again against a righty? They obviously want to see what he’s got, but man…

I think JS is going to pull off a trade that isn’t even on the radar at this point. Let’s go Bravos!

Regards,

Jason

By Colin

July 23, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

Does anyone agree that Franco will be in the lineup tonight and Salty wont even tho Salty needs to get some ab’s.I really think we need to get bullpen help without giving up Escobar or Salty because in a few years Edgar wont be here, and Salty may become a success at 1st like Kelly at 2nd. IMO Marte or Salomon Torres would be nice fits, and Grienke would be nice as well. I really like our rotation with Jo-Jo as 5 the Smoltz Huddy James then Buddy. Our offense isent terrible we need consistency and cant go from 14 runs one night to 2 runs the next, get some consistency. If we did get offense i really like Dmitri Young at first because he isent power but average, and he would be exciment to our team.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 23, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

DOB I had the opportunity to see Hank Williams III several years ago when he was first starting out. He was more like his grandfather than his daddy. Let me know if he is a better showman now. I was a bit disappointed but then again it was long time ago and maybe he has learned a bit more by now.

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

I really don’t think we should be costing ourselves anymore games by putting Julio in the lineup. Can we just put Salty there? Or trade for Dmitri Young. 1 week till the trade deadline, Julio can’t do it folks. Thats such a shame that Jim Bowden is that much of an idiot.

By TennesseePaul

July 23, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

Watching the BoSox game. Ramirez is a loser. That guy show boated his long drive, only started hustling when the ball hit off the wall and was held to a double play creating single. No hustle. Pure crap.

By gotigers72

July 23, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

Went to SF a few years ago on vacation and it was the best vacation I ever had. Great place to go, beautiful with plenty of things to do and places to go. I can still smell the redwoods from going to the redwood forest [Muir Woods] near SF. I also remember fondly the clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. Had it twice while we were there. We went in June and it was freezing the whole time, so that hot chowder tasted especially good. The price was right too. Thanks for mentioning that and bringing back fond memories.

Thanks to Kyle Davies, Mark Redman, Anthony Lerew, Lance Cormier etc. for the “dead arms” in the Braves bullpen now. If they would have pitched like ML pitchers are supposed to, the bullpen arms wouldn’t be in meltdown mode now.

I agree with you about Julio. I think Willie Randolph was right. His bat looks slow as molasses. No matter how good a shape he keeps himself in, he’s 49 and age catches up with him as well as it does the rest of us. He is in great shape for a man his age, but he is trying to play ML baseball and the reflexes for that are just not there any more. Make him a coach or something, but get him off of the roster.

By Savannah Guy

July 23, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

DOB: Julio is in the lineup again? Whoa…this is getting very very strange. Does Bobby….uh, seem ok? Complete sentences? I guess that means the lineup card doesn’t have Diaz penciled in. Once again, same mistakes over and over and over….

What a sad joke. I see another Daily Buzz Report coming…I’ve got Mr. Fly, sleuth reporter on the case now. Expect a breaking story soon.

Since you can’t make Pumpkins, you going to try and catch that Captain & Tennille show at the strip mall in Oakland?

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

July 23, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Hey, Ron, sorry it has taken so long for me to respond but now I must. My trade proposals is not crap. It was a trade proposal that JS had kicked around with Kenny Williams or at least some components of it (Renteria for Garland) and I think we will both agree that JS knows more than either one of us. I will stand by my post from earlier. A trade of that nature would be good for both teams. I understand that Renteria has been great but Escobar has shown he can play. Besides I don’t mind being blasted because I am the same person who said that LaRoche was a good player and was ripped unmercifully on here about it. Then, the very same people who ripped me have done nothing but whine and complain about him being gone after he got traded. Futhermore, I will say this. If Renteria starts showing his age next season and the Braves can’t move him for a bucket of batting practice balls I don’t want to hear one word about how bad he sucks. Just like I said we should have traded Andruw last year. Tell me is Coco Crisp playing any worse than Andruw and not to mention the money that would be available right now.

Now, on to more sensible discussion. I wonder if JS has considered looking at Ryan Klesko?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 23, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

Minor league report part two… The schedule game was a different story. Kyle Davies started the game and went nine innings. I will say this, he looks like a major league pitcher, the way he carries himself. He defiantly has a mound presence about him. He looked better than I have seen him in a while. he gave up one run in five innings but struck out 6 or 7. Sorry, I did not keep score today. He still struggled with the finding the strike zone but when he challenged hitters he was money.

Now, the gem of the game. Young lefty by the name of Will Startup. WOW….. The kid has charisma. Can pitch too. He gave up a run on a walk, stolen base and a seeing eye hit but this kid has major league written all over him. Just electric stuff.

I don’t know if he will be in Atlanta before September but he reminds me of Mike Stanton when he first came up. Kinda stocky kid with big shoulders. Very unlike our current core of relievers.

And oh by the way, there were about six or seven scouts in the stands today. They appeared most interested in Startup and Joey Devine who by the way did a very nice job in the 1 and 1/3 innings he appeared. More on the offense and defense later.

By Superman

July 23, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

I agree Dmitri young would be an upgrade but please do not give up any of our top prospects for him. He good but he aint that good. Besides is it just me or does it look like he could literally STINK up a clubhouse? lol

By Randy

July 23, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

DOB - Just to let you know, in Asheville the Pumpkins were playing 3 hour shows. So, in theory they would be playing pretty late at the Fillmore. Might still not be worth it for ya. But they are indeed putting on very good and long shows right now.

By Serge

July 23, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

Giving Bobby another run with Julio was a terrible mistake.

By Savannah Guy

July 23, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

SECOND INAUGURAL DAY FLY REPORT

The Daily Buzz (Fly on Wall Report No. 002)

Reporting a very private conversation from a wall in the Braves clubhouse after the painful loss last night to the redbirds. Present: Bobby Cox, Chauncey Gardener and Forrest Gump.

Chauncey: That certainly was a very nice game last night. The grass was so green and pretty. But those silly grounds keepers were watering the dirt. Funny boys…

Bobby: Yea, Chaunce. The kids played good but I guess it wasn’t in the cards.

Forrest: But Bawubbee, I thought it was those Cards that won. They ran so hard around those bases at the end of thayut gayum. They ran and ran and ran.

Bobby: uh…yeah, that’s right Gumpee. Uh, no…I meant that, sometimes…the cards don’t fall your way. Just bad luck. Game of inches.

Forrest: I like cards. Sometimes I put theeum on my bye-sic-kull spokes and pretend I’m on a moe-toor cy-kull.

Bobby: Chaunce…what should I have done last night? Did I mess up?

Chauncey: Ohh, nooo Bobby. You were a NICE manager. All of your boys like you so much. You let them all play, even when they are not hitting or pitching well. You are like me. You like to watch. I love when you sit there beside me and just watch those nice games.

Bobby: Well…I don’t know. Still…I don’t know how the other teams bats always seem to come alive just when our starters leave the game. Just bad luck I guess.

Forrest: Bawubby, Dizzy Dean once tauwld me that when thayre no bulls in the bullpen, yuew are naut gawna geeut barb-beekue, yewer goauna geeut meelked cows.

Chauncey: I like that Forrest. And if you have a cleanup that does not clean, you have dirty bases. When you have a setup that does not set up and a closer that does not close, then you have to seek those things before all is clean and closed. It’s all simple, don’t you think, Bobby?

Forrest: Bawubby, don’t you thiunk thayut yeeou could let Mr. Diaz, Mr. Harris and Mr. Salty all play and layut Mr. Andruw rest up tonahht? Woodun’t we run thowse bases mower like those Cards?

Bobby: No Gumpee. Not in the playbook. Going with my favorites. Good kids. Every game is like a box of chocolates…

Forrest: mmm. I like chaw-ko-laates. And shree-ump too. You got bawled shreeump, fried shreeump, shreeump cassarole, shreeump creole, shreeump gumbo…

By Greg in TN

July 23, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

Evening gang…

The bullpen seems to be our “Groundhog Day” lately. I could have sworn we went through last night several times already. Oh… We have. The shaky first half from the back end of the rotation is costing us a little bit right now. The pendulum has likely shifted the focus of JS to relief help, which is as it should be IMO.

We have the bullpen woes and the impending contest with Mr. Asterisk upcoming, but the thing that really got me today and puts life and sport in perspective was the sad news out of Little Rock last night.

Tulsa Driller’s first base coach Mike Coolbaugh was struck by a line drive in the ninth last night and fell unconscious to the field. Mike passed away in route to the hospital after CPR was administered on the field. He leaves behind a wife, two young sons and a third child that is due in October. My heart goes out to the family and the team.

By Superman

July 23, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

Who here thinks that if Barroid had Julios attitude his whole career that the steroid thing would not be played up nearly as much as it has been???

I think ppl dislike barrys attitude more than the fact that he cheated.

By rotomeister

July 23, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Just saw the lineup and Julio is in there again vs. a RHP. As I wrote in this space earlier this afternoon, it baffle’s me. He killed two rallies last night that could have been the difference in close game.

Put me in the camp that believes the Braves have to find a way to play BOTH Kelly Johnson and Escobar everyday no matter who they have to move to 1st base.

It’s time to look forward as a franchise rather than backward. Julio is backward. Kelly and Yunel are the future.

By Lew

July 23, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

Nathan-I see nothing to be gained by assigning blame. That’s a big problem on this blog and in daily life in this country. Instead of trying to find a scapegoat, maybe it would be better to find a solution. Be that as it may-I think there’s plenty of whatever to go around. Some days it’s the starters, some days the pen and still other days the offense. What it all adds up to is that the Braves have been wildly inconsistent-hence not playing up to their abilities. I have absolutely no idea why this is or how to encourage more consistency. Maybe it is a dugout or coaching thing. Maybe Robert has been right all along. All I can tell you is that we’re close and the Mets aren’t running away with it anymore than the Braves have taken advantage of the Mets’ ineptitude. NoBrainZone-All I’ve done is try to point out to you that the Mets have sucked much worse than you ever thought possible. It’s a real shame that the Braves haven’t taken advantage of it. But every single thing I told you three months ago has happened. The pitching has not sustained their early success. The hitters have not continued to save your much beleaguered bullpen. Sosa has come back to earth. El Duque and Alou have spent time on the DL just like I said they would. I told you the Mets wouldn’t run away with it all and they haven’t Your much ballyhooed Pelfrey has been terrible. The only thing I have been less than correct on is that Perez has not folded. Even Maine is coming back to earth, though he is still doing well. You say I keep yelling about how one more move will save us. No, the Mets continued medicority will save us and your hope that Pedro will save your sorry a*******e$ won’t happen. It’s your team that has failed to play close to expectations-not ours-we’ve certainly exceeded your expectations-and the expectations of many of the experts. You’re just too damned stupid to understand that.

By woogidy

July 23, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Harang went 10 tonight and gets a no decision. That’s tough. DOB, Braves take BP?

By Superman

July 23, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

Man thats terrible about Mike Coolbaugh. Its amazing that things like that dont happen more often. With todays bats Im suprised some poor pitcher hasnt took one to the neck.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 23, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

Personally, I think MLB should require the coaches on the field to wear batting helmets.

By Ron Roberts

July 23, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

You have to be kidding me. Matt Diaz and/or Jarrod Saltalamacchia sits again while Julio Franco plays again???

Dude, this is precisely why I was against us signing Julio Franco. I knew if we went out and signed him, we’d actually play him.

This is the sort of stuff that we do this year that’s flat-out maddening.

It is like Groundhog Day (the movie), watching this season progress for the Atlanta Braves.

Soriano struggling? Hey, I know; let’s put him in the game with a small lead! Surely he won’t give up a dinger this time, despite sucking miserably the lsat month, right?

So what if Redman/Davies have struggled so mightily their last half-dozen or more starts…maybe THIS is the point where they turn it around!

We have to keep Andruw in the order at cleanup; otherwise if and/or when he comes out of his slump, he’ll benefit our offense as much as he’s stifled it so far, right?

Yeah, I know Matt Diaz would lead the league in hitting if we played him everyday… but why would we consider playing HIM at 1B when we’re floating around .500 now without doing that? I mean, we have a .177 hitting 48-year old “father figure” to play there instead!

M A D D E N I N G.

By jon

July 23, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

DOB…yeah I was at that postseason game. Wanna say we were up by 5-6 runs and Smoltz was being Smoltz and trying to blow him away. That was when Bonds was right on EVERYTHING!

By Todd A

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

I would not be surprised in the least if Barry hits 3 bombs in this series against this staff.He**…I’m expecting it.

By The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

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

people still talking about lasts nights game? Perk up gotta forget about yesterday and start some good MoJo.

By rupert

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

keep and eye of morris and klesko, they both could have tomahawks on their chests within 2 weeks, probably could be had without escobar or salty, but problem is now all gm’s demand them for anyone the braves want, double edged sword of having top prospects….

By Ron

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

Robert(JISB) For one thing I was not talking about Renteria for Garland, I think you had another trade or two that I was talking about!!! No doubt we should trade Renteria EITHER this year OR in the offseason!!! I think we should go after Joe Blanton for Renteria!!! I would MUCH rather make that trade than Garland, but of course JS knows what he is doing!!! I think you had other trades earlier in the day, but I cant remember now, you waited too long to post back to me!!! I have too much crap inbetween times!!! I might look back and see what you actually wrote earlier!!!

By Todd A

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

“Man thats terrible about Mike Coolbaugh. Its amazing that things like that dont happen more often. With todays bats Im suprised some poor pitcher hasnt took one to the neck.”

superman that is the problem with our do nothing commish,Bud Selig.It’s going to take a catastrophic injury from a player or fan before something is done about the thin handle bats being used today.We can all see it coming.It’s going to happen eventually.Yet,instead of being proactive,he does nothing.

By Todd A

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

Woooo hooooo.Way to go Brian.

By Superman

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

Good point Todd

I have to agree it IS going to happen. I live close to Nashville TN and a few years back at a nashville sounds game a pitcher took a broken bat to the wrist. It didnt just cut him it stuck there. Its only a matter of time before its a neck or eye or whatever.

By Bob, Journalist

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

Paul In Richmond

We have almost no production out of our first base position (which is supposed to be a power position) and out of our center fielder who is flirting with the Mendoza line and almost never gives us clutch hitting

I too believe it to be important to get offensive production from or 1st basemen … but, what do you mean by “(which is supposed to be a power position)”?

fleming

Is there any possibility of moving Chipper to first and Escobar to 3rd?

So doing is obviously one of the best solutions to the first base problem … however, Larry evidently has the right to do decide what he does or doesn’t do … and he doesn’t want to do that. That’s not sarcasm, that’s evidently how things work.

I never understood the level of applause given to Larry when he was moved to Left Field … I was nice but I had always thought it was the job of the player to do what he was told to do … but that doesn’t appear to be the case. If the player has the right of refusal, I have no problem with that either … as it certainly places additional demands on the player.

Efrim,

Francoeur has made some progress but I agree that many are overrating him … he may be working hard to do things right but not really working hard to do the right things. Unless he changes, he will never approach his potential … notice his just completed wasted time at bat.

By GermanBravesFan

July 23, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

Nice start! With a nice lead, why pitch to Barry?

By ernesto

July 23, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

The Julio thing has to end. It’s ridiculous.

By Tomahawkin' Again

July 23, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

A couple of early thoughts: 1. Allright Big Mac! Needed to jump on these guys early after last night’s late inning meltdown; 2. Lots of empty seats in the upper deck. What is this, a Braves playoff game? 3. Every time I see a shot of Bonds, he looks like an overinflated tire. Put one right between the shoulder blades Smolztie

By Bob, Journalist

July 23, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

Chip Carey just said that Julio is scheduled to play again tomorrow … but may rest him on Wednesday … Bobby is pleased the defense he brings to the position.

Good to see Matt in his usual position too … he needs the rest!

By Efrim

July 23, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

Way too help Smoltz Edgar. Great……

By N8

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

3-0 lead and the and NOW the Bad News Bears will have to throw Barry a strike, or have the bases loaded with only 1 out.

Perfect.

Lew

What I was getting at, was that it was/is Bobby’s fault. If you’re of the opinion that this ISN’T all that our team is capable of, and they’re playing below their “capabilities”, through 99 games, that’s a coaching issue, IMO.

I’m not in the same league as Robert in that Bobby is worthless all the time.

But you can’t have it both ways Lew. This team is either underachieving, or they’re not that talented to begin with.

By ernesto

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

Wow that ump has a tight strike zone. 3 of those “balls” looked right there.

By chrisklob

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

Todd A, I was in Louisville last week on business and found time to visit the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory. Pretty interesting to see what the bats looked like in the old days. The tour guide even commented on the thin handles of todays bats. Says it’s what the players want now, which, of course, we already new. I agree that it’s just a matter of time before someone gets hurt.

I’ve told this story on this blog before so I won’t re-hash the whole thing but a couple of years ago my nine year old daughter was hit by a broken bat at a minor league game. The handle completely snapped off and the business end went hurtling end-over-end into the crowd striking her on the upper arm and side of the head. By the grace of God she wasn’t seriously injured, but the damage could have been devestating.

Prayers and good thoughts for Mike Coolbaugh’s family and friends, particularly his children and pregnant wife. So young, so tragic and so needless.

Braveheart, seen a bunch of new “faces” on here the last couple of days. Might be time to repost the RROE just to keep things in perspective from the newbs.

Lew, as I mentioned earlier in this post I was in Louisville but the game was rained out so I didn’t see Seth. My time there was pretty fully booked so I probably couldn’t have gotten down there to see him anyway. I hope that you’ll remember to let me know if you hear from him.

By overlord

July 23, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

So what the gell is this? Now that offense wakes up, then SP struggles.

By rotomeister

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

Julio just stranded two more runners on bases.

He’s now 1-14 with 8 runners left on bases since rejoining the Braves.

Still can’t get over Bobby’s comment about Craig Wilson: “It just didn’t work out. Thought it would but it didn’t.” How long til we figure out that Julio should not be getting at bats vs. RHPs unless its a late game pinch hit and no lefthand batter his left on the bench.

By N8

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

Ron Roberts

Thank you for you 9:49. That pretty much sums up what I was thinking.

Well done.

By overlord

July 23, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this

Big time smoltzie cold as ice, he didnt panic and gets out of rentys mess.

What has been the highest AVG. by an NL hitter in the last 50 years? Im asking cause chipper is just going crazy.

By JJMB

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

F-ing Julio again. Booger Cox must have dug deep in his sinuses for this crap.

Anyone doubt that Julio “chemically enhanced” himself? Barroid is obvious. So is Julio. Take a look at his early photos.

By Ron Roberts

July 23, 2007 10:53 PM | Link to this

Lemme get this straight… Bobby Cox is enamored with the defense Julio Franco brings to the game?

This, from the same guy who started a rookie out of spring training, then later put a career rookie catcher over there to try and spark his offense (defense be damned, essentially)…

M A D D E N I N G.

By mr baseball

July 23, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

I’ve said this since the day the Braves signed him: Julio Franco is done as a major league baseball player and the decision to bring him back was just flat stupid. The genius GM and Chance the Manager tried this with Otis Nixon. They brought in a drug addled Ken Caminiti. There was the all-time corner OF duo of Mondesi and Jordan.

Watching Julio make his feeble swings and occasionally lift a weak fly ball to RF, what do you think guys like Chipper and Renteria are thinking? This is the best we can do at 1B? What are Thorman and Salty thinking? The Braves actually think this geezer is better than we are? What does Smoltz think? I better hit tonight because I know the guy ahead of me has no shot whatsoever to get on base?

O’Brien: Please do us a favor and get one of your cohorts from some other paper to take a few minutes away from the Bonds watch and ask Cox to explain why a 49-year-old relic is in the starting lineup on a team that actually might get into the playoffs. Not holding my breath.

This is beyond idiotic. The only possible explanation is that the Braves want to take a look at Julio to see if he can still hit. I think it’s obvious to everybody except Dumb and Dumber that he can’t.

If the Braves aren’t going to shell out money for a big time 1B, which I’d say is 99 percent that they won’t, and if Salty isn’t quite ready yet, which seems to be the case, I’d suggest moving Kelly Johnson to 1B. Unfortunately, that is about as realistic as the alternate universe trades proposed by at least half of the bloggers here.

The best we can hope for is some middling lefty reliever. I think Franco’s outstanding effort rules out hopes of bringing Jesse Orosco back, and probably Mike Stanton, too. But there’s always Tom Martin. Look for him in a Braves uniform in the next few days.

By overlord

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

Whats the matter with this renteria guy? Is he real? He is crazy man……..he is always on base. He and chipper are just a 2-3 punch that looks unreal. go braves

By Bob, Journalist

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

I finally got an answer back, from the Braves site, to my question regarding the rationale for not playing Matt … “Thanks for your continued support of the Atlanta Braves!”

I replied back … “my question was not sarcasm … will it be answered?”

By chrisklob

July 23, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this

Does anyone know if Julio is still swing that tree trunk of a bat? Seems like if he were to step back a couple of sizes he might generate a little more bat speed. Maybe Davies left some of his bats when he went to Richmond.

My feeling, and it’s been expressed here before, is that Julio is up here for an audition before the trade deadline. JS and BC want to see what Julio’s got left in the tank (CLUE: it’s empty) to see if they need to make another move at first (including releasing Julio).

Savannah Guy, thanks for the Daily Buzz. I’m working on my Daily Buzz too! It’s called Knob Creek Bourbon!

By chrisklob

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

overlord, but it’s a shame that the #4 hitter can’t make consistent contact and drive those two on-base machines in as often as he could!

By Savannah Gay

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

Ron Roberts is a freakin moron.

By Stinky

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

Why does Francouer insist on swing at the first pitch? Does he just not realize he is doing this or is he that impatient?

You would think someone on th eteam - coaches, teammates, Jeff Porter, the freaking batboy - would say “Hey buddy, lay off one every once in a while.”

By Savannah Guy

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

Several here have pleaded (to whom I’m not sure) to remove Julio from the lineup and give him a coaching job. Just a few days ago, the same folks were griping about Pendelton and other coaches. Hey, there is plenty of criticism that we can all give every coach and especially the manager. But think about what you are willing to do to get a player out of the game.

Isn’t that like “kicking” a non-producing, older middle manager “upstairs” in the executive suite just to get him out of the production dept.?

Doesn’t that strike you as short sighted? It’s a vicious cycle maneuver. Players that perform well should play, coaches that coach well should coach, regardless of where they came from or how much we or Bobby like them.

Good players and good guys don’t necessarily make good coaches. It’s an art and a science that requires experience and the right personality. Let’s not (suggest) repeating old mistakes that will haunt us in the future.

Julio should obviously not be an every day player. There will be plenty of work for him in a pinch, whether it’s hitting off the bench (not against a hard thrower) and an emergency first baseman. He will contribute. He’s worth what we’re paying him and more.

Sign good players. Hire good coaches. Tell that to Bobby Cox. He won’t hear you.

By The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

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

People still ragging on J. Francour. Thats really surprising. I wonder if many for you expected him to become a superstar overnight. Of course he he is going to make his fair share of mistakes. He is batting over .280 and has pretty good, if not great, average in clutch situations. I think many of you are not realistic when it comes to evaulating talent. Not to mention how much improved his game is from this time last year. If he contiues to improve the sky is the limit for him.

In the next ten years, I think we will be taking about J. Francour like we talk about C. Jones You have a valid point about Andruw but lay off Frenchy.

By chrisklob

July 23, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this

I have admit that the DP started by Julio was pretty darn good!

By GermanBravesFan

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

I am sitting here, 1.5 hours from San Francisco and the damn game is blacked out!!!

By BossLady

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

Had to get away for vacation, coming in just now have not caught up on blog. Any trouble from anyone? LOL Chipper and Renteria is looking good so far tonight. I heard TP and Larussa got in to it and it is about time TP did something and Larussa is an A$$ like Terence. It looks like Atlanta is going to give Bonds his record. I wish that we did not pitch him at all. Just don’t seem right for him to hit off Hank Aaron’s home team.

By David O'Brien

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

How ‘bout the old men, Julio and Smoltz? Julio showing that whippersnapper Bonds a thing or two…

By Savannah Guy

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

Bob, J: Now, how do I put this…you didn’t really expect an honest, candid answer did you? From the Braves site? It is only a PR group, not a franchise version of Ask Jeeves. But you knew that. Right?

chrisklob: Someone read the buzz…I’m proud it was you. I take your thanks as a quality compliment, denizen. Knob Creek, eh? The good stuff. Know it well.

David-ATL14 Dittos. Glad you liked it.

By Slinky

July 23, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

I bet stinky hears that all the time, “lay off one every once in a while.”

punk

By mr baseball

July 23, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

Another reason (of many) why I have always thought that Bobby Cox is extremely overrated as a manager and has been the beneficiary of an unending streak of talent has not exceeded its expected level of success since maybe 1992:

Until forced to do so by economic restraints, Cox never was never comfortable in playing youngsters regularly who were not absolutely major league ready when they arrived in Atlanta. Can’t miss players like Chipper, Javy, Andrew, Furcal went straight into the lineup, but borderline guys like DeRosa, Graffanino, Helms, Randall Simon were never given a full shot before being released/traded, frequently waiting while the likes of Lockhart, Brogna, Joyner played ahead of them. In every case, those Braves rejects went on to become solid performers for some other team.

Watching the Giants tonight brings back memories of Klesko and how Cox stunted his progress. The minute he got out of a Braves uniform he began losing weight (Cox has never had a problem with out of shape players) and became a complete player in San Diego, Before he started getting hurt, he had three standout seasons, and with the exception of LaRoche, the Braves haven’t had anything resembling a major league 1B since he was traded in one of the most phenomenally one-sided deals in baseball history.

Cox will play the kids if he has to (the Mondesi/Jordan fiasco resulting in KJ, Langy and Francouer getting a shot), but would much prefer penciling in older guys in the lineup. Hence, Julio plays and Salty sits.

Oh crap, Franco just hit one off the wall. Now he’ll be in the lineup for another week, by which time he’ll have 3 hits as a Brave.

By Bob, Journalist

July 23, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

mr baseball,

The only possible explanation is that the Braves want to take a look at Julio to see if he can still hit

I support the bring back of Julio as a bench coach but not as a player. However, given that he is here as a player taking a roster spot … it must be that they are satisfied with what they see in batting practice and his in game plate appearances, relative to bat speed, etc.

There has to be a reason … but surely seeing what he can do offensively can’t be it … whether he can still hit or no, expectations can’t be that his level of production will be such that obviously better offensive options aren’t available.

It would appear that there is some undisclosed reason for not playing Diaz except as a pinch hitter and he doesn’t choose to play Salty at first.

mr baseballs, mr not baseballs, osar

By David O'Brien

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

Ahh, just put away a quality order of Taco De Pescado, the ol’ fish tacos. A tasty treat we need at Turner Field (yeah, right, that’ll happen….)

Maybe we could get Six Feet Under to open a concession at Turner and sale Shrimp and Grits, Fried Green Tomatoes and other such regional faves….

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

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

I have the Braves on T.V. ice cream, and the DOB/MIB blog. The small pleasures that’s what life’s all about. Oh, not to mention I make my rotation home (so to speak) for 9 days off in two days then make my Ali like return to Georgia in the next three days and finally appear in the wonderful Atlanta next week to watch my Bravos face the Colorado Rockies. Wish it was at least someone in the NL East but take what I can get. Life is good.

Joined the game late, looks like B-Mac had a big hit.

Will K.J. ever stop hitting.

Think I agree with everyone about Julio. I am not understanding the logic other that maybe the front office talking a flier before having to make a bigger move. Although, I rather have J. Franco on the team than P. Orr.

There is your bunt bloggers.

Props to J. Lester

One good thing about being in Wyoming I don’t have to stay up to 1am to watch the entire game.

Gil in Mechanicsville - Thanks, its nice to see what the future is doing.

Superman - Wow, I agree completely with that statement. His ambivalence towards the media has further instigated the issue.

Bob - Your 1103 post was funny.

Chris lob- Yeah he is, they talked about it last night.

By chrisklob

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

Savannah Guy, yep, Knob is some pretty fine bourbon. I’m in the liquor biz and my trip to Louisville was to visit Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark. Beam is where they make Knob Creek. We met with the master distiller at Beam and Maker’s last week. While I’d been to both places before, it was still a great trip. Learned a ton about all their brands. Makes me appreciate the good stuff even more!

Keep up the good writing Savannah Guy. I know you’ve taken some grief from some of the other denizens in the past but I realize that it’s all tongue in cheek. It’s always well written, humorous and creative. I wish I had that gift.

By bravesfan

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

Alright it looks like we will be able to gain a game in the wildcard race with the Colorado come back COL 7 SD 5 FINAL. GO BRAVES!!!!

By The Grinch

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

Cris, you sure it’s not “Klob” Creek Bourbon?

Julio’s not lookin’ too bad tonight. I still think he’s better suited to a backup role, obviously, but he’s at least competent defensively and fouls off a lot of pitches. Better than Thorman, anyway. He’d make an excellent backup to Texiera. :-)

By overlord

July 23, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

hey chrisklob, there goes your double for andrew…… oh………what a shame, nobody on base. Can we get someone real on the 4th spot?

The only way AJ is gonna be forgiven by braves fan is if he hits something like “the shot heard around the world” or something like that. So what that means is that it will never happen, we will always carry his KKKKK and dumb smile on our minds.

I have noticed some stability on the right side of the diamond, maybe julios defense is of some importance, but nonetheless, he needs to hit a little more, not to be drastic and say a lot more. Hope he teaches things to youngers, specially salty and thorman.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

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

Bob,

Job to do what’s best for the team is probably a great ideal. However, when your talking about your career and the business aspects of the game you cant think like that as a player. I honestly think C.J. moving to LF probably cost him 2 extra years of playing time when his career is winding down. . So what’s best for the team is not always the only consideration, you would be insane to not look out for number 1 when thinking about potential career changing moves. Not many teams have loyalty to their players. Look at Julio when he left. The Braves would not give him a two year deal.

Another aspect is HOF consideration. What player would not like to be considered for the HOF? He has a better chance at getting in the Hall as a 3B than LF. You think the Hall voter would think about his ability to switch positions when considering him for the HOF if he was still playing LF? I doubt it from what I’ve read.

By chrisklob

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

Billy, BFKAB, was your comment to me about Franco’s bat? Sorry, not sure. I didn’t see all of last night’s game so I may have missed them talking about it.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

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

Looks like the Giants are not endearing themselves with the home plate umpire tonight.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

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

overlord,

What does AJ have to be forgiven for? For slumping? Give me a break.

By David O'Brien

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

Since May 23, Braves are 12-10 on the road and 13-19 at home (before this game)

By Todd A

July 23, 2007 11:58 PM | Link to this

Maybe if Julio wasn’t using a giant redwood tree for a bat,his bat speed might improve.You think?

By chrisklob

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

Grinch, Lol. No, I could never make something so fine as Knob unfortunately, but I do appreciate the gesture.

overlord, I’m not sure if you’re being sarcastic or not but have you looked at AJ’s RISP numbers? If you’re being serious you should probably check them out. WARNING: They are not pretty. AJ does hit to the opposite field on occasion but I’m not sure if it’s a mistake on his part or not when he does it. Sure, he’s got plenty of RBI’s but he’s should considering all the opportunities he’s had with Edgar and Chipper on base as frequently as they have been.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

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

crisklob,

yes!

By BossLady

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

Julio is doing good tonight. I think his experience at the plate is what they want the young guys to duplicate. See lots of pitches, foul pitches and make the opposing pitcher work. They need to recognize what is being thrown, ya know what TP should be doing.

By Dark Shadows

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

Absolutely amazing…anything remotely close to the plate is a called strike for Smoltz while the poor sap on the other team gets squeezed all night. It’s been that way for years.

Does he have some incriminating photos of the umps or is it his whiny Little Leaguer act that gets them seeing things his way?

Those two called strikes on Durham—in a crucial situation-were postively ridiculous.

And as I write this a perfect 2-2 pitch to Willie Harris is called a ball by the little sissy behind the plate tonight.

By overlord

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

sarcastic i was chris.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

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

Overlord,

Whats your opinion of T. Glavine leaving the Braves?

By chrisklob

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

Anyone know what Smoltz’s pitch count is? It seems he’s been pretty efficient tonight. Hopefully he’ll be able to stay in there for a while and give the pen a little relief.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

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

Watched Brian Pena play first base for Richmond today. He reminds me very much of Gerald Perry when he played first for Atlanta.

Corky Miller 2 passed balls today. Very similar to his performance the last time I saw him play.

By Todd A

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

2 innings to go before the Soriano meltdown.

By Listermint

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

Joe Simpson you are a piece of work. The Giants hitter gets the bat taken out of his hands last inning with two horrible calls by the home plate ump and you don’t say a peep.

But Barry Bonds takes a pitch a foot outside and you question the ump.

What a journalist!

By Savannah Guy

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

GermanBravesFan: Are you north or south of SF? Just out there for a week. Beautiful country, even if you can’t get the game. They advertised it in Savannah all day to be on ESPN, then ESPN2…and it wound up on Sports South. Go figure.

Bob, J: ”I support the bring back of Julio as a bench coach but not as a player.”

Bob, check out my 11:11 post and see if you agree. Maybe you’ll change your mind about the coach thing. Maybe not.

chrisklob: Since you’re in the Liquor biz, do you carry “Old Dominion Ale” by any chance? One of the best ambers I’ve ever had, from a micro-brewery in VA. Check it out if you haven’t.

Hey man, other than a knock down with Braveheart a while back (we’re good now), I don’t remember being negatively affected by any criticism of any posts. If I do get any, it’s “too long” or “not funny”. Not particularly fun to hear but certainly doesn’t get under the skin at all. I always consider the source and almost always give benefit of doubt. Different strokes.

By GermanBravesFan

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

Hey Grinch… any cold ones tonight?

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

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

Veterans such as Smoltz, B. Bonds, and any other HOF caliber of players get the benifit of the doubt, more times than not. It’s that way in all sports. M. Jordan was always getting calls and non-calls.

By Bobby Cocks

July 24, 2007 12:15 AM | Link to this

Braves playing pretty good on no sleep

By chrisklob

July 24, 2007 12:15 AM | Link to this

overlord, for the clarification I thank you. An AJ apologist I hoped you were not!

By BossLady

July 24, 2007 12:16 AM | Link to this

75

By overlord

July 24, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

Im not sure why are you asking that billy

IT sure was not a good thing for the braves, nor for baseball. But he is free to go where he wants to. It didnt surprised me since hes nature is no where near what smoltz and chipper is. But i dont have any bad feeling about it, if he was back for this season (2007) it was ok for me.

Why did u ask that to me?

By bravesfan

July 24, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

75 through 6 innings

By TennesseePaul

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

Watching this game, in the 6th inning I saw two things that made me smile.
The first, Smoltz throwing at Bonds’ knees, then getting him to ground out.
The Second, Renteria ranging to his left to pick the third out up the middle.

By Slinky

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

Slinky says that stinky is back and posting under numerous names tonight.

the cowardly punk

By Ron

July 24, 2007 12:23 AM | Link to this

Listermint I have heard FAR WORST from other announcers for other teams!!!

By overlord

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

IF cox does not allows JS to finish this game if he continues to dominate….. he will give more reasons to make me think he is no where near one of the greatest managers of all time……..give the BP a break man!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It has not happened yet and im already mad because i can smell he is taking smoltz out just as he took tim out in that marlins game back in june i think

By The Grinch

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

Not tonight, my man; got an early morning coming up. Got some Pilsner Urquell and Sam Adams Scotch Ale cooling in the bullpen for tomorrow, though. Speaking of the bullpen…

By Ron

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

If this damn bulpen blows this game for Smoltz then this team will have very little chance at making the playoffs because the Braves cant take too many more of those kinds of losses!!!

By chrisklob

July 24, 2007 12:28 AM | Link to this

Savannah Guy, I only handle distilled spirits but I sold specialty beers and wines in a previous lifetime. I am not familiar with the fine ale that you mentioned. Considering that I’m from Charleston, SC I’m surprised that I haven’t at least heard of the item that you’ve mentioned as VA isn’t that far away. Is it a high-gravity beer? If so, we just had the law changed in the last 60 days regarding the proof of beer available in SC so it may not have been available for sale here previously.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

July 24, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

overlord,

Your right, I do have a motive for the question. You said not good for baseball. Why? I understand why it was not good for Braves? Whats T. Glavines nature? Money over loyalty?

By fastasballs

July 24, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

Smoltz looks to be getting stiff. What’s the temperature? upper 50’s? He’s pitched great so far, I hope he can stay in because his pitch count is low. You know he wants Baroid one more time.

By uga-dawg

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

francouer one extra base hit since the break. getting kind of old.

By chrisklob

July 24, 2007 12:34 AM | Link to this

Oh great. Soriano is “up and throwing the the bullpen”. Come on Bobby, we’re trying to start this road trip with a win, aren’t we?

By Savannah Guy

July 24, 2007 12:34 AM | Link to this

Soriano warming up for the 8th. Huh? Amazing.

By fastasballs

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

Oh great, look who is warming up. I swear if this is a repeat…..

By David O'Brien

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

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but SORIANO is up in the bullpen. YIKES! And Bonds is due up second in the seventh inning.

Oh, my.

By TennesseePaul

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

Every pitch to Franco, looks like a total battle for Franco. I don’t even know if that describes it properly. But every other batter it looks like something you just do. With Franco, it’s almost like it takes everything just to make it last a little longer.

Maybe the blogsong is on my mind…

By overlord

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

i cant believe this

matt diaz is on deck and soriano warming up

what is this all about?????????

By Boogers

July 24, 2007 12:37 AM | Link to this

Thought I’d drop in, don’t know how long I’ll be able to stick around, just been kind of hanging around lately, living from nose to nose. Been a little busy with flu season and all, then ran around with some bad mucous for a while until I woke up one morning stuck between stinky’s front teeth, but I’m a crusty old veteran, so all is well. Booger out.

By heath

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

odds on a soriano meltdown?

By The Truth Hurts

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

I guess about 85 pitches on a cool night is the most we can ask of a #1 starter these days.

Unless there is a back issue, I don’t get it.

Hey, I’ve got an idea: it’s the 8th inning. Let’s throw Soriano out there. Again.

By Todd A

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

LOL…Bonds will be facing Soriano in the 8th)as if we didn’t already know this was coming).I’m REALLY starting to agree with Robert on Cox.

By fastasballs

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

Watch there won’t be anyone else warmed up in case Soriano can’t retire the first few hitters.

By mr baseball

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

Where’s Macay McBride now that we need him? Oh yeah, he was traded for a LH pitcher who can’t get lefties or righties out. Nice job in improving the team JS. Here comes Soriano. Back up, Jeff.

By BossLady

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

DOB, Bobby did not heed your advise, here comes the worst part of the game

By overlord

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

OK it is official, bobby cox is the worst manager ever to manage a club.

Why is smoltz out of the game? The soriano will como to the mount on his knees. I would not be surprised to see him throw lefthanded since his right hand must be bleeding.

What is bobby trying to do? prove to the world that soriano is a good reliever and that he can do his job? Dumba22, we all know that already, problem is no human can do that on a daily basis (except is you are bonds and use steroids).

By TennesseePaul

July 24, 2007 12:41 AM | Link to this

Over/Under on Soriano blowing this?

By GermanBravesFan

July 24, 2007 12:41 AM | Link to this

Grinch… let’s not use the word “bullpen” in this context!!

By uga-dawg

July 24, 2007 12:41 AM | Link to this

if this game goes bad its not just the pens fault. one run since the first and that was on a squezze. whatever happened to our ability to hit the longball.

By Savannah Guy

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

chrisklob Charleston…love that town. Yes, it’s Old Dominion’s got gravity…I’ve heard they were rarely sending to distributors. Don’t have the production that would make it worthwhile for most. Great stuff though for a high-end specialty store. Almost worth a trip just to get a private stash.

Looks like O’Briens article was not read by Cox today, eh? Nail biter…maybe he’ll rise to the challenge.

By Stinky

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

Here comes the gopher ball from Soriano.

By Austin

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

Sorianos FB has a lot of movement early

By TennesseePaul

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

Double Play!!!! Had it gotten to two outs and runners on the lead would have changed. Looks like it’s Sorianyes today.

By heath

July 24, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

whew… now, can bob do the same in the 9th?…SHOULD be easier with the bottom of the lineup.

By bravesfan

July 24, 2007 12:47 AM | Link to this

Hey Soriano located his pitches and had a good inning.

By fastasballs

July 24, 2007 12:47 AM | Link to this

Soriano’s pitches had a lot more movement tonight.

If you watched Smoltz pitch the 7th it was obvious he was getting tight. He was doing a lot of stretching to try and stay loose. I’ll bet that hard slide at 2nd may have had something to do with it or maybe just the shoulder getting stiff.

By uga-dawg

July 24, 2007 12:48 AM | Link to this

mackay mcbride is exactly where we need mim, not in atlanta. mackay always looked like a guy that should be in a pie eating contest in south georgia.

By overlord

July 24, 2007 12:48 AM | Link to this

i bet that there will come up some idiot and say that cox strategy paid dividends.

That is not the truth…..the truth is that the umpire didnt let durham hit all night long and soriano was hit by bonds for a single. double play? i dont care…….soriano in there tonight and smoltz out of the game with less than 90 pitches is not a good call. Not even my fish would make so many mistakes if it was managing.

By mr baseball

July 24, 2007 12:51 AM | Link to this

As poorly as Soriano’s pitched lately and as much as we’ve been ripping him, Cox did the right thing in going back to him. The guy is the best option the team has in a close, late game situation, even though he’s stunk it up his last several times out. You have to stick with your best players in tough times, and that is one thing I’ll give the manager credit for. The Braves are not going to the playoffs without Soriano pitching in these situations.

Wonder if Chipper has said anything to Smoltz about taking himself out of games after 7 innings and 80-some pitches. Don’t think he’s been out of the lineup since Smoltz called him out.

When was the last time two Braves relievers pitched effectively back to back? Hope it’s tonight.

By Bravo Nam

July 24, 2007 12:51 AM | Link to this

Why Salty Will Be Traded

1). No appropriate spot available Salty won’t supplant B Mc as catcher- the Braves made that clear with this year’s long-term deal. You don’t keep a guy of Salty’s calibre as a back-up catcher. That leaves first base. The Braves made it clear they don’t see him as a first baseman, and cursory results to date have shown that he doesn’t have the instincts to play first anyway. The Braves are not going to keep a guy as valuable as Salty in a back-up role.

2). Braves current interest in a first baseman We know the Braves have seriously enquired about Young and Teixeira. That means they don’t see Salty as the solution at first…and if the Braves picked up either one of these players…they’re certainly not going to platoon Salty with them.

3). Take heat off B Mc This reason has been given no attention, but to my mind is as important as any other. The Braves have just signed B Mc to a long-term deal. They obviously want a good return on their investment. With catcher realistically being Salty’s only option, there is no way known the Braves are going to let Salty hang around for any length of time and put unnecessary pressure on B Mc. Let’s face it- Salty is a tall, handsome, muscled, charismatic and confident dude (a completely different type of person to McCann). It makes Salty very popular with the fans. If Salty hangs around, McCann feels the heat (from fans in the stands, on blogs, from himself etc.) every time he’s in a bit of a slump. Salty’s breathing down his neck. I’ve noticed B Mc reaching a bit more this year…not playing quite as relaxed as he used to…I’m sure it’s hard on him to have a stud right on his tail. The Braves know this…B Mc knows this…Salty knows this…you get the best from B Mc when Salty is no longer around.

4). I believe the Braves sees Escobar as more a part of their future than they do Salty. It makes Salty the most important trading piece the Braves have. I think JS is going after 1-2 relievers, a starter and a first baseman before the deadline- to get that many pieces, you have to include Salty in a deal.

Like the rest of you, I love Salty’s potential- so do the Braves- JS realises that if he deals Salty, he’s dealing a potential superstar. But, at this juncture, retaining Salty is not a realistic or viable alternative given the Brave’s needs and their commitment to B Mc.

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 12:52 AM | Link to this

Something sure do smelly bad.

By Austin

July 24, 2007 12:52 AM | Link to this

Whith all due respect, you guys are complete idiots if you wouldnt 1) use soriano in that spot or 2) think cox wouldnt use him. We suffered months of Kolb/Reitsma and they were never good closeing games. Soriano was a dominant as he could be 3 weeks ago. 2-3 weeks of mediocre pitching should hinder your job.

By TennesseePaul

July 24, 2007 12:52 AM | Link to this

I know, I know, it’s the Giants, it’s the Giants home park, and Bonds is in Left Field. But this is boarder line too much Bonds. ESPN just had a field op chime in with “it’d be incredible if Bonds was just starting to play today what with all the medical advancements, nutritional supplements and dietary improvements that he’s pioneered over the last 8 to 9 years.”

By The Grinch

July 24, 2007 12:52 AM | Link to this

DOB, you are a jinx. I suggest you title the next blog “Mets win division.” BTW, the cheapest decent tickets I can find for Miss Krauss are $135 bucks apiece. Yowch.

Chris, beer affects my gravity too. Funny how Georgia just passed a law not too long ago finally allowing us to have higher alcohol beer; we were losing a good deal of state revenue by not having brew pubs or specialty beers. I see SC is going backwards. I hope their football team does too, since my Dawgs are all I have to look forward to this season now.

By overlord

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

After watching 7th and 8th inning moves by braves manager i can now …………FINALLY——— understand why is this team in second place……..

Our misery has a first and a last name……it is called bobby cox….

By Austin

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

Also, Smoltz told Cox he didint have any gas left. Thats why he is out of the game, not because of Cox

By Slinky

July 24, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

Is it just me, or does Bob Wickman look a lot like Larry the Cableguy’s daddy?

By Savannah Guy

July 24, 2007 12:57 AM | Link to this

Nice win. Good pitching. Bonds hit none out. Now I can sleep.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

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

“Fans” rag on T. Glavine for lack of loyalty but if you read this blog on a daily basis loyalty goes out the window when someone has a really bad run. We all know AJ is better than what his stats say but some say good riddance, never mind at the same time hold a grudge again Tommy boy for taking the money. Loyalty that’s why I asked the question overlord. Why should a baseball player who has for the most part has had a successful run as part of the team minus this year have to be forgiven. Not to mention he does not get into trouble like other player or have a bad reputation. Forgiveness? Maybe that’s what you should ask him for.

Yeah lets let Smoltz go nine and throw out his arm again. A lot of you think one game at a time when it’s more important to look at the intermediate to long term.

You know, Soriano was dominant and will be dominant again. Just a bad stretch. Speaking of loyalty, look how quick the blog turned on our best relief pitcher of the 1st half. Guess it goes with the territory when talking with fellow fans. Guy has a bad two weeks and no one wants to see him pitch again. I give props for B. Cox for having the courage to stick with what has worked for the most part this season. You just don’t give up if you face adversity. It really does appear that most expect perfection or close too it for an entire season. Not going to happen. How bout you guys the bullpen does its job. Like it has done for most of the year minus recent struggles.

By The Grinch

July 24, 2007 1:06 AM | Link to this

Bravo Nam, good points.

Time for a snooze.

Night, all.

By GermanBravesFan

July 24, 2007 1:06 AM | Link to this

Great night! Braves win, Barry doesn’t go yard AND no sign of Mets Drool! :-)

By fastasballs

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

Overlord, I’ll roast Cox’s azz for many dumb moves, but I’m not seeing the dumb 7th & 8th inning moves?

Smoltz was in obvious discomfort while pitching the 7th. I’m sure DOB will report on it later, but I’ll about bet that’s why he was pulled. He may have even pulled himself. If Smoltz goes down for the season , well then there is no season. Smoltz is not going to be pulled with only 85 pitches & another chance to face Bonds unless he had stiffened up, either the shoulder or back. He also slid really hard into 2nd base either the 6th or top of the 7th, I’m sure that didn’t help. It was a normal cool, damp night in San Fran also.

At that point you have to bring in Soriano, who else is there? Granted he’s been getting rocked, but his velocity is there so he stands the best chance to regain whatever it is he’s lost. I’ll blame Cox all day for using the pen needlessly in blow outs & other moves he makes or doesn’t make, like last night, but can’t slam him for tonight’s decisions.

The Braves had a shot to add to the lead in the 9th, yet everyone decided to swing for the fences & nothing was accomplished.

By Todd A

July 24, 2007 1:09 AM | Link to this

“Wonder if Chipper has said anything to Smoltz about taking himself out of games after 7 innings and 80-some pitches. Don’t think he’s been out of the lineup since Smoltz called him out.”

Bobby doesn’t let any starter pitch past the 7th inning.That Tim Hudson game in Florida back in April has made him gun shy.It doesn’t matter how many pitches the starter has thrown or how dominant he has been.He is coming out after the 7th,and Soriano is pitching the 8th…Wickman the 9th.That is Bobby’s way of doing things,and it’s going to be that way come He** or high water.

By Coach ( Hank Aaron is The Real HR Champion)

July 24, 2007 1:12 AM | Link to this

Smoltz does his thing , the offense and bullpen back him up and barroid steroid is nothing but an empty suit. It’s a beautiful thing. Braves win , Braves win , Braves win !!!

By meansonny

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

Bravo Nam,

I might be totally off base here. But here I go.

I think fans and the media look too much into slumps (ie. why is McCann’s AVG so much lower than he was at this point last season. It must be Salty). These are long seasons. And good players play many of them. There are going to be slumps. And sometimes we, the fans, reach to find an explanation because we hate the unknown (unknown being that a good player can struggle at any point of his career).

Secondly, I see Salty’s trade value a lot higher either the last day of the trade deadline or during the winter meetings. There will be more teams bidding for his services at this time. And more competition will give Schuerholz a better chance at bringing in the return he wants.

I think we’re going to see Salty on our club till the winter meetings.

By Coach ( Hank Aaron is The Real HR Champion)

July 24, 2007 1:16 AM | Link to this

Hey , O’Brien. I see Cox took your advice and didn’t let Soriano pitch to barroid steroid.

By Savannah Guy

July 24, 2007 1:18 AM | Link to this

Hate to leave the blog tonight…it’s been a good night to be on. Funny, 75% of the folks here don’t read the blog…they just post (and vent and post and post)…but the exchange and repartee tonight between all denizens was particularly good. And thanks to those that gave kudos for “The Daily Buzz” stuff I posted. I’ll pass that along to the sleuth, Mr. Fly reporter extraordinnaire. He ususally just wings it. It was fun writing, but your comments made it worthwhile.

Braves win a nice one. See you on the morrow.

By uga-dawg

July 24, 2007 1:18 AM | Link to this

for all you cox bashers out there, its not his fault. this team is flat out inconsistent. this team does not put up runs on consistent basis. i know the rank near the top in runs scored,but there are some games actually a lot of games where they make average pitchers look like koufax. tonight is just one example. 3 runs in the first and then nothing. the brave get absolutely no POWER production from RF, LF, AND 1B. not to mention there bench is horrendous. THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOUR PAYROLL IS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE LEAGUE. INJURIES AND SLUMPS CANNOT BE COVERED UP. THIS ROSTER IS SIMPLY SLIGHTLY ABOVE AVERAGE. SO GIVE BOBBY A BREAK.

By Ron

July 24, 2007 1:30 AM | Link to this

overlord Dude I dont agree with everything BC has done this year, but he has been a Good Manager to this team since 91!!! And I think you said you would rather have LaRussa over Cox, please dude you lost Every BIT of Credibility with that one!!! LaRussa had the BEST team in 88, 89, AND 90 and ONLY WON 1 Championship!!! And if it was not for the Pathedic Jim Leyland he still has 1 Championship!!! One of those managers had to get one more Championship because they faced EACH other!!! Leyland’s Tigers could not even throw the Ball to the Third Baseman last year in the World Series!!! At least the reason the Braves did not win More Championships is because MOST of the Players CHOKED in the Playoffs, not BC fault!!! Glavine for the MOST part was lowzy, Maddux for the MOST part was lowzy!!! Two pitchers we counted on for the postseason were for the MOST part pathedic!!! We have 3 Championships IF it is not for the Baserunning blunder by that idiot in 91, and Mark Wholers pathedic of a pitch to Leyritz!!! Oh yeah I guess that was BC fault also, putting his Closer in the game!!! I guess you would not have used him until the 9th!!! Guess what we needed him in the 8th!!! Say what you want about BC, I question some of his moves also, but I do not BLAME BC for ANY of the times we did not win the Championship, because the players Choked ALL OF THOSE YEARS!!!

By David O'Brien

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

Fastasballs, Smoltz wasn’t sore and didn’t take himself out. Don’t expect him to go more than seven innings the rest of the year, unless it’s some rare occasion when he’s feeling particularly great and with a really, really low pitch count.

As Cox said afterward, they’re being careful in hopes of getting him through the season, which they think they can do by being smart and using him judiciously.

Smoltz didn’t have ice on at all by the time we talked to him, and usually he does.

By Bob, Journalist

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

Savannah, good point, now why didn’t I think of that?

Billy, I understanding where you’re coming from … I always thought election to the HOF was the ultimate career recognition, never thought of it as being part of the decision making process relative doing what was asked of the player.

I can understand management, within reasonable limits, not pushing the point if a player is opposed to doing something … for it falls into the category of self fulfilling prophecies.

I also have no quarrel with someone not wanting to do something, regardless of reason.

Regardless, Chipper’s playing first would seem to be a good option … I would think that the thought of being relegated to playing the position where they put folks when they can no longer elsewhere perform would be more of an ego problem than a HOF election consideration. Of course, it could be that he doesn’t feel he can effectively play 1st base … or that he simply doesn’t want to do it.

If the Braves have the contractual right to force him to so do and haven’t so done, it’s probably because they think it’s not in their best interest to so do.

Good win, 4-2 is not a bad score!

By Todd A

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

Folks,nothing has changed with Bobby.He’s the same manager he’s always been.Difference is,in the 90’s he had 3 HOF’ers on his pitching staff and several veteran players in his lineup.His incompetence never showed up until we got into a short series in Oct where actual strategy was required.Bobby could just sit back and pick his nose and dip skoal,Leo would just rock,yet we would still win 95-100 games.

Now we have a lot of young players and some roster fill ins.This team has plenty of holes,and needs coaching and strategy to maximize their abilities each and every game.When I saw the successful safety squeeze tonight,I had to watch the replay to make sure it was the Braves and not the Giants who had executed it properly.The Braves have poor fundamentals,and there has been questionable personnel decisions made by Cox all season(they have been discussed on here ad nauseum).

By fastasballs

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

DOB Thanks for the info on Smoltz, much appreciated. If Smoltz goes down the season is about done with, so I’m all for precaution with him.

By Todd A

July 24, 2007 1:52 AM | Link to this

*”Also, Smoltz told Cox he didint have any gas left. Thats why he is out of the game, not because of Cox”.

yeah,Austin,Maddux used to say the same thing when he left the game after 7 innings and only 71 pitches.And he wasn’t 40+ years of age then either.Must have been the same thing for chuck the other night too?These pitchers are just sticking up for Bobby,like he does for them.

By bravesfan

July 24, 2007 1:52 AM | Link to this

Saw this on the Rangers site what do yall think?

It seems the rumors of Mark Teixeira to the Dodgers have cooled off due to the hot bat of [James] Loney, but the Braves could be another good fit. What does Atlanta have as far as pitching to offer the Rangers?

The two most obvious candidates are left-hander Jo-Jo Reyes, who is 23, and right-hander Joey Devine, who is a hard-throwing reliever. They have some interesting position players in the Minor Leagues, including third baseman Eric Campbell and outfielder Brandon Jones. The Rangers really need Reyes.

By periodista Señor Blanco

July 24, 2007 1:52 AM | Link to this

Periodista Señor Blanco no tiene nada decir sobre juego de hoy. De hecho él no vio el juego de hoy. Cuando él llegó el estadio en San Francisco hoy no lo dejarían adentro porque él no poseyó una divisa de la prensa. Divisa dicha Blanco de señor… él no necesita ninguna divisa que apesta. Pero no lo dejarían pulg. Él no tiene tan nada divulgar.

Traducción:

Journalist Señor Blanco does not have anything to say on today game. In fact he did not see today’s game. When he arrived at the San Francisco stadium today, they would not leave him inside because he did not possess a badge of the press. Badge, said periodista Señor Blanco, he does not need no stinking badge. But they would not leave him inside. So he does not have anything to report.

By Jared

July 24, 2007 1:54 AM | Link to this

More rumor fun from Baseball Prospectus:

“Talk persists around baseball that the Pirates are willing to part with right-hander Ian Snell if they can land a power hitter in the deal. Two reported targets are the Braves’ Jarrod Saltalamacchia and the Dodgers’ Matt Kemp, though the Dodgers would prefer to deal Andre Ethier.”

I swear, if this deal is available and Schuerholz doesn’t do it, he’s the most overrated General Manager in all of baseball. Saltalamacchia-for-Snell is a no-brainer and a steal for the Braves.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 24, 2007 2:08 AM | Link to this

With so many negative Nellies posting on the blog one might wonder what would happen if we really did have a bad manager. I guess a lot of you folks didn’t have to experience the Chuck Tanner era. Joe Torre wasn’t all that either.

Good win for the Braves tonight in spite of the bloggers whop questioned every move made. Do ya’ll think Bruce Bolchey is dog food too?

Grinch too bad about the high ticket price. I guess living in the big city has a few downsides. Someone must think the pay scale is the same as New York. I paid $42.50 each for my tickets and I thought that was a bit pricey. However they are good seats. Now, if I don’t get mugged things will be great.

By David O'Brien

July 24, 2007 2:08 AM | Link to this

Thanks for straightening all that out, Todd A.

Got it.

By Bob, Journalist

July 24, 2007 2:10 AM | Link to this

mr. baseball I totally agree “with As poorly as Soriano’s pitched lately and as much as we’ve been ripping him, Cox did the right thing in going back to him”

Savannah, I read your 11:11 … I support Julio’s being added as a coach because I believe he would bring a lot to the table in that capacity, not because his skills have eroded and I would like to reward him.

As a rule I’m opposed to coaches who have been masters at performing the craft they are expected to coach … I prefer those who have carefully studied and understand the craft … and can effectively communicate with a multitude of player types.

Few performers actually do what they think they are doing, even those who study their own videos … they see it but generally don’t truly understand the interrelationship of the components of their actions and often misunderstand cause and effect.

I’m not suggesting that Julio does … but he has always appeared to have more of a plan than most … when he has experienced difficulties, his adjustments have seemed to be effective and, … his experience is rather broad based.

Goodnight Miss Allen

By David O'Brien

July 24, 2007 2:18 AM | Link to this

Gil, ain’t it the truth?

Bob, Chipper’s not moving to 1B, nor should he. He’s playing very good 3B defense and hitting about as well as he has in his entire career. This time, he won’t suggest or agree to a position switch like the last one.

And remember, he already tried 1B at midseason for about a week in workouts, and when they were going to make the move he and the Braves agreed it wouldn’t be good. He wasn’t comfortable there.

I can say with a fair degree of certainty, they aren’t going to move Chipper to 1B to open a spot for Escobar next season. Again, if Chipper were playing poor or even mediocre defensively, it’d be one thing. But he’s not.

By David O'Brien

July 24, 2007 2:19 AM | Link to this

Billy, good points in 11:45 p.m. post.

By David O'Brien

July 24, 2007 2:23 AM | Link to this

Mr Baseball, in retrospect you’re right about Soriano, because they’ve got to rely on him. But man, can you imagine the fan reaction, and media reaction, if he’d given up No. 754 tonight to Barry, a night after giving one up for his third blown save on the homestand?

Anyway, that’s why most of us would never have the nerve to manage, to stick to our guns. But I really could have seen him giving Soriano a day or two to chill. Then again, they poll the relievers before games, see who needs a day off, etc, and if Soriano said, “I feel great, I want to pitch tonight,” and Bobby had skipped him in the eighth inning, it could have made Soriano wonder, know what I mean?

Anyway, it worked out. Thankfully, for their sake.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 24, 2007 2:25 AM | Link to this

More minor league info then I am going to bed….. Brandon Jones made a really nice catch today robbing a hit by running down a line drive to the left field gap. No way I thought the ball was going to be caught.

Pete Orr played center field today. Appropriate I think as he is batting about .211. Brent Lillibridge looks like a young Ron Howard (Opie) but plays like Craig Biggio. This kid is not afraid to get his uniform dirty. he made all the plays he was suppose to make plus a few. He does not have the arm of Escobar but he is a gamer. Seems as if he was in the middle of most of the offense all day.

Blanco has some pop in his bat. He hit one out today that was crushed. You folks should undrstand that Richmond is one of the hardest parks in the IL to hit homers out of. The Diamond is set up with the same deminions as Turner Field but it plays deeper.

Another note that could explain an increase in teams ERAs is that whenever the Braves play an American Leauge affiliate they use the DH. Sorry folks but I am a purest and I like for everybody to have to hit, otherwise they may go to a designated runner like softball. They have screwed with the rules enough.

I like nice quick ball games not those 4 and 5 hour marathons you see in the American League.

By Coach ( Hank Aaron is The Real HR Champion)

July 24, 2007 2:50 AM | Link to this

Barry Bonds will regret what he is doing. Completely. In five or six seasons Alex Rodriguez will cruise right past Bonds and considering that Aaron has held the record for 33 years , Barry will be nothing more than a footnote in history. if back in 1999 Bonds had made the right choice and not became involved with Balco. He would have went down as one of the 20 greatest players that the game of baseball has ever seen. Barry would have been a shoe in vote for enshrinement in Cooperstown. As it is now , he will have no HR record , no World Championship ring and certainly no plaque in Baseball’s Hall of Fame. Bonds will have nothing but a fat bank account to show for his professional baseball career and that is really a shame because before steroids , he could have been remembered as a positive instead of a negative.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 24, 2007 2:56 AM | Link to this

One last shot: I enjoy for the most part the comments, interaction and word play that often takes place on this blog. There are obviously some very intelligent people among us and they can bring levity as well as knowledge to entertain and inform the rest of us.

Unfortunately some get a little too full of themselves and come off as total boors and frankly have the opposite effect. I suggest everyone think a little before you go off on a tangent. Sometimes it is better to save your powder for when the battle hangs in the balance.

William F. Buckly was one of the smartest men I ever knew. He was also one of the dumbest. Why you might ask? Because while he felt he had all the answers, he was completely at a loss as how to convey his thoughts to the masses. I learned years ago that if your target audience did not understand what you were trying to say then your message was lost. As “Brother Dave” always said, “The Lord must have loved the common man because he made so many of them.”

Peace all….

By Bob, Journalist

July 24, 2007 3:13 AM | Link to this

David, My posts, initial and clarifying, weren’t really intending to suggest anything in disagreement with your 2:18 … other than to suggest that the cat for which a way to skin can’t be found, is rare … indicating that Chipper and management were in agreement and also noting that Chipper either had or did not have the contractual right to refuse.

By Bravo Nam

July 24, 2007 4:09 AM | Link to this

Grinch/Meansonny

Thanks for the feedback.

Meansonny, you make a couple of good points. I also agree that Salty may not be traded before the deadline…it could be the winter meetings when his value is likely to be even higher…but bottom line is that he will be traded in the not too distant future…the bloggers who are turning themselves blue trying to argue to keep Salty are fighting a losing cause because of the points I made in my earlier post.

Loyal to the core/balls of steel

Many will call some of Cox’s personnel decisions stupidity…and they have a point. Nevertheless, you can’t help but admire a guy who has the courage and loyalty to stand by his players through thick and thin. It’s the reason the Braves attract so many players and keep many of their good ones in Atlanta- coz of his loyalty. Two latest decisions: Franco and Soriano. Like most of you, I’m not sold on Franco. Yet, despite a less than stellar start to his Braves’tenure, Cox persists with him…and he goes and gets two hits in SF. Never saw that.

The other personnel move is Soriano. Mr. Baseball made very valid points about why Soriano should’ve relieved tonight. But I agree with DOB- no way known would’ve I pitched Soriano tonight- I would’ve sent JS out there to pitch before Soriano! As DOB said, can you imagine the reaction from fans and media should Bonds have connected off Soriano- shudder to think. But BC, for better or worse, to show Soriano he still believed in him, brought him out there. Just goes to show why I’ve got peas of mush and BC has balls of steel.

Say what you like about Cox- but my hat is off to the man for resolute loyalty and courage personified.

By Bob, Journalist

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

Gil, I assume that you’re talking about William F. Buckley, Jr. of National review and Firing line fame.

I wish I could have had the pleasure of knowing him … and though I have never met him and probably never will, I always enjoyed his novels; the magazine; and of course, Firing Line was always delightfully entertaining … most often a hoot!

There’s no question but that he is intelligent and he has always been known for his wit and wonderful vocabulary.

Of course you know him and I don’t … I’m just talking about his books, magazine and TV show persona … but I never had the impression that he felt he had all the answers or that he tried to convey his thoughts to the masses.

I agree with what you say about messages and target audiences … but who is to say what what the artist was trying to convey and for whom that message was intended.

i always enjoyed Brother Dave … he had some good insights into Southern culture … and a humorous way of expressing himself … good delivery and a terrific sense of timing.

Methinks that his “common man” was an adaptation of Lincoln’s observation that God must have loved the plain people because he had made so many of them.

I often use that and PT Barnum’s “there’s one born every minute” to show how there’s more than one way to say the same thing.

No, I wouldn’t call Bill Buckley dumb … methinks he usually accomplished what he was attempting to do and that’s more than we can say of most.

By Bob, Journalist

July 24, 2007 5:34 AM | Link to this

Gil, as an aside, why do you think that ‘being at a loss to express one’s thoughts for proper assembly and digestion by the masses’ is reason to conclude that a person is dumb?

Now referencing your post, I never had the impression that Buckley’s target audience was the masses, even in his protest campaign against Lindsey.

Until tonight …

By MEB

July 24, 2007 5:47 AM | Link to this

Bravo Nam… Two thumbs up for you 4:09 post. Having to work early I didn’t get to watch the whole game so your post really hit home for me. My hats off to Bobby and the whole team for coming back and playing like a great team. I like the character of this team and can’t imagine being the fan any other team in the baseball.

By Bob, Journalist

July 24, 2007 5:56 AM | Link to this

MEB, Bravo Nam … we need more posts like yours … kudos

By jon

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

Where is all the Bobby Cox bashers? Oh yeah, lets wait to the next lost and you guys will come out of hiding again. Bobby Cox’s patience gets on my nerves sometimes too, but when I sit back and think about it, it’s amazing how he does it! He will keep running the big man out there in the 8th……he is our setup man and no matter how much he struggles…he will keep giving him the ball! I love it!

By jon

July 24, 2007 6:55 AM | Link to this

Check this story out on the Texiera deal..I’m not all for it, but if you read this, you do get intrigued with the possibilties!

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7053996

By Bob, Journalist

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

jon, it is interesting …

As an aside, I know the arguments for allowing anonymous source quotes and references but I wish they weren’t allowed.

I’ve always thought that if the information was intended to be sensitive and not made public, then those who disclose it have no integrity and should be held in contempt, not applauded … and if it was intended to be released, then the source should be identified.

I realize that such things are complex and happen in their own time … it seems that folks like to wait until the deadlines force all of the cards out on the table … but I wish they would do whatever they are going to do … which could be to do nothing. The sooner we get the final pieces in place, the sooner we can move forward with the task at hand.

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 7:44 AM | Link to this

I see where I posted in my sleep last night. IMO, I have better command of the mother-tongue when I am awake. The Paladin resides.

By ssiscribe

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

Top of the morning, denizens. Wipe the sleep from your eyes after a late night on the Left Coast.

Didn’t have time to post since Saturday, so might play a little catch-up here. First and foremost, nice win last night. Plain and simple. Fly across the country after a night game (thanks, ESPN, for the disservice), fly right into the middle of the Barry Bonds Circus, fly after maybe the worst lost of the season, and the ballclub wins.

I don’t think you can overstate that enough, folks. We get way too high on here when the Braves win, and we get way too low on here when the Braves lose. But the ballclub maintains that even keel through the ups and downs of the marathon of a regular season.

Now, Saturday night (noted transition): We had a devil of a time finding parking an hour and a half before the game. Of course, the crowd ended up being the largest for a regular-season game ever in Atlanta. Seeing Willie pound out six hits was like watching Soriano get that ground ball last night. We scream and holler about what Bobby does in the dugout, and heaven knows I’ve been questioning using Soriano, using Julio, etc. But the man has unflappable faith. Sometimes, it’s justified. Willie, who had struggled, found his groove again. All in all, Saturday night was an awesome time at the yard. How else to explain 14 runs and 17 hits in four innings?

And, as an aside, if the Cardinals have any hope of getting back into the race in the Central, Wainwright better win every start he has the rest of the season. The rest of their rotation we saw at Turner Field just wasn’t very impressive.

Now, Sunday (more transition): Right up there with the two Wickman meltdowns in Florida. At 6:15 or so Sunday night, the Mets were losing in the ninth. By midnight, the Braves had lost a game they should have won, after the Mets rallied to win a game they should have lost. Big two-game swing in the standings. If the Braves fall one game short of the postseason, circle July 22.

Now, last night (more transition): Perfect way to get rid of the ugly taste from Sunday’s loss. I know Bobby wants to give Julio some at-bats, but I was ill when I saw Franco in the lineup. But the old man came through and made a great defensive play on the 3-6-3 double play. Smoltz was super; I was fine with him coming out after the seventh. Gotta try to get him through the season and have something left for October if the Braves make the playoffs. Good game all the way around.

Now, trades (still more transition): Seeing Julio play so much, and not seeing Salty over at first base, leads me to believe something major may be afoot. I’ve heard all the Tex rumors. Still don’t know if I want that salary and don’t know if I wanna deal with Boras after next season. But he would be a hell of an upgrade over there. We won’t have AJ’s salary next year and I know there is talk there will be more money available, but I also know several Braves get raises next season.

Much as I hate to see Salty go, I think you have to keep Escobar. As I’ve said constantly, if Chipper gets hurt (and that’s always a possibility), who do you want starting at third in the midst of a pennant race? Escobar or Woodward? That’s what I thought.

Along those lines, there is no way I trade Renteria in the middle of a pennant race. I totally understand getting a bonafide No. 3, and Garland would really be a good addition. But not for Renteria. Again, if Escobar is playing short full-time and Chipper gets hurt, voila! There’s Woodward, starting every day. No thanks. Plus, Renteria and Chipper are absolutely raking in the 2 and 3 holes, and KJ hitting lower in the order is where he needs to be anyway. Need Renteria’s leadership on the infield, too, especially if something happens to Chipper.

This team needs an arm in the pen. This team needs a first baseman. If you have to move Salty to make it happen, do it. Guys and gals, this team may not be capable of winning 100 games, but in the National League, it’s got as good of a chance to win the pennant as the Mets, Brewers and Dodgers. I think the Padres are a small step above, and the Cubs are a step below the main group.

So, pull the trigger. And as we’re a week out from deadline day, I believe Schuerholz will do just that.

The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Salty

July 24, 2007 8:20 AM | Link to this

Gil Another note that could explain an increase in teams ERAs is that whenever the Braves play an American Leauge affiliate they use the DH.

Thanks for that info; I had absolutely no idea; really does make a difference. In the minors, there is no real level playing field…literally or otherwise!

By Bravo Nam

July 24, 2007 8:26 AM | Link to this

MEB & Bob, Journalist

Thanks mates!

Over and out for the night from the Aussie in Cambodia.

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this

Gil I have to disagree with you on William F. I think he is/was one of the great word-smiths of our time. I did prefer reading him, rather than watching him, because I found his manner of speaking to be too affected.

As an avid “sailer” of boats(a Marine would never refer to himself as a sailor :-))I thoroughly enjoyed his books about sailing. I have “borrowed” one of his lines many times. I paraphrase. “You can easily explain to someone the thrill of doing barrel-rolls and other aerial maneuvers, but it is almost impossible to convey to someone the thrill of going 5 mph in a sailboat.”

In that regard: I once had a sailboat on which I took some non-sailing-guests for a “day sail”. The wind was good—12to14, steady—and we were “cutting” along with me doing my best Capt. Outrageous impression, at the wheel. Then one of my guests said to me: “Hell, XXXXXXXX, I got a riding-mower that will go this fast.”

Oh, the humiliation.

By JasonInMaine

July 24, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this

Man, imagine this team with Garland and Tex! I would HATE to lose Renteria, but don’t you think this team would be better with Escobar and Tex playing everyday and Garland penciled in as the #3? JS is going to something big this week!

Regards,

Jason

By Thrillhouse44

July 24, 2007 8:42 AM | Link to this

Good link, Jon.

I’m glad the Braves are thinking big, but I really don’t want to lose Renteria. He’s been great consistently and I would be uneasy relying on a rookie shortstop during a pennant race. But, JS is the man and I trust every decision he makes.

By Hammer'd The Braves

July 24, 2007 8:51 AM | Link to this

Schuerholz has never impressed me as a guy who would go all-in on a draw, and Renteria-for-Garland would certainly be that. It would be shocking to me, unless a trade to big up the offense happens first.

By TommyP

July 24, 2007 9:09 AM | Link to this

Gil in Mechanicsville:

I always quickly sift through the blog to read certain things but just caught your Richmond minor league report.

Do you do this daily? If so, a HUGE kudos to you. That was the best thing I’ve read on here in quite awhile.

You have a daily reader if this is ritual for you.

And on that note…anyone in Mississippi or Myrtle care to do the same?????

By TommyP

July 24, 2007 9:09 AM | Link to this

Gil in Mechanicsville:

I always quickly sift through the blog to read certain things but just caught your Richmond minor league report.

Do you do this daily? If so, a HUGE kudos to you. That was the best thing I’ve read on here in quite awhile.

You have a daily reader if this is ritual for you.

And on that note…anyone in Mississippi or Myrtle care to do the same?????

By Lew

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

As usual, BC is bashed constantly. The one thing I think we are not realizing is that without performances by Andruw and our bullpen, we go nowhere this year. You have to put them out there and give them a chance to succeed. They may fail horrendously when they play, or they may surpass our wildest dreams, but there is no way they succeed sitting on the bench, unused. That is an indisputable fact.

By jon

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

Since you guys liked the link I posted at sunrise this morning! Here is another one that just come across the board. Man these Tex trade talks are really heating up!!!!! Check out the second link too for another minor trade being discussed!

http://www.fannation.com/truthandrumors/mlb

http://www.fannation.com/truthandrumors/mlb

By George

July 24, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

been away the last couple of days..DOB was reading my mind.. (headlines) “Soriano gives up record setting home run to Barry Bonds”…. Just proves that major league players can hit 95+ per hour fast balls unless there is movement on the ball. The movement has disappeared. Hope he gets it back…

By flange1

July 24, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this

Good Morning All,

A nice win by Smoltz and the Braves, a couple more wins in a row and things will be looking up!

On Salty,

I know the fervour that everyone has for Salty, but we must face facts, Salty’s value is being a switch hitting catcher. He is worth the most to a team as a switch hitting catcher. JS pretty much said that earlier this year. We HAVE an all star catcher. Salty is worth more in a trade than he is as a switch hitting 1B. So SALTY WILL BE TRADED. Maybe not now but over the winter he is gone.

On Trades,

In reading the rumor sites, the Braves are very active in looking for trades. We have all heard about Garland, Tex, Snell etc etc.. My take is that JS will continue his pitching, Pitching, PITCHING philosophy, and we will see trades for pitchers before the trading deadline. I would love to us pick up Snell, Greineke and CJ Wilson, but JS will work his magic for us.

On positioning,

IF we trade Salty, I would love to see the Braves put Escobar at 2B, KJ in left field and bring Diaz to play 1B. Let Harris, Franco and Thorman ride the pine. We would have to regroup at 1B next year, but that is what the winter trading season is all about!

Thoughts?

By Efrim

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

Did you all see what happened in Colorado last night? I am telling you, the Padres aren’t making the playoffs. Their pen is overrated and Peavy is pitching hurt right now.

By Renegator

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

Is Ledezma back with the team yet? If he is and just not pitching - what is the point of having him on the team. Obviously Bobby doesn’t trust him.

Good thing we signed Franco to take all the at bats away from Salty.

By Lee

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

Not a true 100% fan of Cox’s but really cannot think of a manager that I am a true fan of. Sometimes they are overrated in baseball. Cox probably reads these blogs aimed toward him and laughs. I know I would do it if I was in his shoes.

No the Padres are not looking very good at the moment (considered by many the best team in the N.L.). No one is looking unstoppable in the N.L.; that is why the Braves have an excellent chance of making the playoffs, especially via Wild Card. If they do make the post season with Smoltz and Hudson in a short series anything is possible. Odds are the bullpen will be straighten out by then and who knows what trades (if any) will take place between now and then.

If they don’t make the playoffs I guess everyone can blame Bobby Cox anyway.

By Renegator

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

Did you see last night that Harang pitched 10 innings. I’m trying to imagine a Braves starter going 10 innings… HA!

By Scoff

July 24, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

Trading Edgar for Garland would only make sense in the braves traded Salty for Tex. The braves would be giving up their most consistant hitter in exchange and their top prospect for a proven #3 pitcher who also eats up innings, as well as gaining a power hitter (who also hits about .290 or so) whom they will lack once andruw is gone. You cannot make the Edgar/Garland trade without getting some offense in return period.

Although the braves can afford to trade salty for tex… it makes too much sense. Tex is young, 26, already proven gold glove and power hitter. Things they only hope for in Salty. IMO the braves will be able to afford this even with scott boras as his agent.

By Lew

July 24, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

Rene-Yes, Ledezma is back and pitched the other day against the Cards. Now going ten innings-You have a hard time seeing a Brave being able to do it or a hard time seeing BC let them do it? Big difference. Efrim-You’re right about the Padrews. If Peavey is burned their shot at the division goes WAY down. They have zero offense.

By Shaun

July 24, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Efrim,

I wouldn’t put too much stock into one game at Coors Field. The Padres still have the best ERA in the league even if you adjust for ballpark.

If the Padres don’t make the playoffs it will be because their offense has scored the fourth fewest runs per game. And even if you adjust for ballpark their OPS is among the worst of all the playoff contenders.

By Scoff

July 24, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this

flange1

The braves will not put KJ back in LF this far through the season, maybe next season.

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this

Despite his “success” last night, would it be beyond-the-pale to give Soriano a couple of weeks “off”? Put him on the DL for whatever, and let him just throw lightly, under supervision, daily. The man is tired!! Bring up somebody, anybody, and give it a try. Sure couldn’t hurt.

By geauxbraves2000

July 24, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

In reference to trading Salty, at first I was quite opposed to the idea, then I was on the fence. Now that I’ve read what I’ve read and had time to think about it, I think a Salty/Tex swap is a good idea. The Braves have no production at first base right now, and there really isn’t a full time position for Salty right now.

Now, Renteria for Garland, that’s a big fat no. No way you trade a vital piece of your lineup, especially since the SP seems to be getting a little better.

Geaux Braves!!

By Braveheart

July 24, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

BRAVES WIN! MAGIC NUMBER IS 67!

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

NCZ What are you doing out of your box with the sun up? Now, get in and close the lid. We sure don’t want to lose a “contributor” like you.

By Soul Man

July 24, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

Shaun,

I would like to hear a statistical analysis that backs up your opinion that the Padres pitching is not falling apart. I would also like to know if Thorman is out of options or not. One more thing. It would be nice to know how Atlanta has the most pathetic, or pathedic, as Ron would say, fanbase on the face of the earth.

Now don’t start all of your bullcrap and whining guys. You know who you are. A whole night last night spent second guessing every move that was made. You are the same ones that jump on the bandwagon everytime the Braves win.

I will go ahead and call you out. Todd A., Ron Roberts, Chris Klob, we’ll call him Kolb, Efrim, Overlord, and most of all, the biggest idiot on the blog, N8.

By Lee

July 24, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

geauxbraves2000

I too was first opposed to the Salty trade but like you the more I read into it, the more sense it makes. Salty has no future with the Braves. Tex would be a good fit and it sure would be more gratifying seeing him bat clean-up next year rather than A.J.

By Hammer'd The Braves

July 24, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

Calling the Padres (or any of the current contenders) out of the playoffs is premature. The NL seems to have reached parity, since the Mets, as brutal as they have been, now have the best record in the league. No one team seems able to put together a breakaway streak, so Mets, Braves, Dodgers, Padres, Brewers, Cubs, and anybody who can go on a 14-6 rip is in it.

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

And take Einsteinian”Genius” with you. Y’all can lie face to face, if you “desire”.

By Efrim

July 24, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

Shaun,

I agree their pitching is still very strong, but Peavy is pitching hurt right now and their offense is terrible. Chris Young is going to have to continue his dominance to get them into the playoffs. They also have no trading chips other than Scott Linebrink. And that would hurt the bullpen if they traded him.

By TennesseePaul

July 24, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

Three clubs – the Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers and Atlanta – want first baseman Mark Teixeira. Sending a reliever such as Joaquin Benoit and Teixeira to the same club may allow the Rangers to get closer to the package they most desire.
—Dallas Morning News

And if the Rangers get what they want for Teixeira, the slugging first baseman will be gone, too, in a move that could bring top young talent to Texas.
—Fort Worth Star-Telegram

Only a matter of time. Rangers will trade Teixeira plus others and get back not Teixeira. I’m curious to see who wins this. If the contenders for making the move are the Angeles, Dodgers and Braves, my money is on the Braves. I don’t see the Dodgers moving James Loney (.358 AVG .957 OPS, minimum Salary) out of the lineup. I don’t see Bill Stoneman actually pulling the trigger and removing Casey Kotchman (.287, .830 OPS, minimum salary). Which leaves the Braves and their coveted pitchers. It also might explain another layer of reasoning as to sending Davies down and keeping JoJo up. Not that Davies didn’t earn his trip back, but this could be a show-casing move for JoJo.

Now, that would make it possible for JS to build up the desires of the Rangers to move Tex plus for JoJo and Devine plus. Then turn around and flip Salty or something to the Pirates for Snell plus.
Pure speculation, but not necessarily something I’d be against as much as I like Salty and JoJo. Of course, after Gonzo, I’d have some serious testing done on Snell.
These Pirates deal lemons.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

July 24, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

I woke up this morning feeling tired and violated. Then I remembered it’s because I was exposed to three hours of Rick Sutcliffe analysis lastnight. I swear I think I am actually dumber now than I ever have been in my entire life, due to him. When he and Dave O’Brien (the other one) stated that Smoltz was clearly pitching around Bonds in the first inning, I should have turned off the television. Pitching around someone does not consist of going 3-2 and throwing a nasty breaking ball low and on the inside corner that only Bonds could lay off of.

Yes Rick, the fastballs he threw to Bonds in the later innings did have movement. Due to the fact that we are in a pennant race, Smoltz decided not to throw a straight fastball down the middle as hard as he could and concede a chance at gaining ground in the standings like you wanted him to for the sake of ESPN ratings, goober.

And yes he tried to kick save that ball up the middle, Rick, but not because he was scared to face Barry with men on base. He tried to save it because he’s a baseball player and an exceptional athlete. Some people call ballplayers like that “gamers” but you, Rick, are a pecker-head of the highest degree who acts like Smoltz is some young starstruck greenhorn that’s scared senseless of Barry Bonds. Halelluia!, Holy &^!+!….Where’s the tylenol?

By AthensBrave

July 24, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

We should give Will Startup a try before we make any trades for a reliever. He’s a lefty and was a dominant closer at UGA. He’s done great in the minors for the Braves as well.

By Steve from OH

July 24, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

I think that JoJo has stabilized the rotation to the point that we can focus more on getting Tex and/or a reliever. I think that acquiring a starter in the offseason is more prudent, as Buddy is pitching well now, but I don’t anticipate him being in the rotation next year. JoJo will be a good #5 next year, and if we can get another pitcher then, great. I would trade Salty for Tex right now. And maybe with AJ’s contract off the books, we can sign him to an extension later. I would also deal for a reliever (a top priority) and for Grienke (if possible), in that order. Trading for Livan, Contreras, Jennings, Lohse, etc. is not prudent and an unessicary waste of prospects. It may even hurt us down the stretch. If JoJo can learn to locate his offspeed stuff, he’ll be REAL good for us. If not, we’ve always got Davies…

By GSU-Lee

July 24, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

Jo-JO has looked good, I don’t know if I am crazy about dealing him. He might be just as good as Snell. I would no do that.

By Efrim

July 24, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

Soul man,

I wasn’t on the blog during the game. I never question BC’s moves. I have no problem with him sending Soriano in there in the 8th. I jump on the the Braves every time they lose because I have yet to see them rip off a long winning streak yet this year. I keep waiting for it to happen but it hasn’t. I will be much more pleasant after a loss if it is after a 7 game winning streak.

By Renegator

July 24, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

Lew - I have a hard time seeing BC letting them do it. I have no doubt that Tim Hudson could go 10, but I know Bobby would never allow it.

By KC

July 24, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

“Which leaves the Braves and their coveted pitchers”

The Braves aren’t going to trade pitching for offense. Forget it.

They might include an arm (say, Joey Devine of someone like him) in a deal… but no major pitching prospects will be going anywhere unless it’s for a frontline starter.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 24, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

EinsteinianGenius Maybe William is smarter than I thought, he evidently does not want to be understood by trailer trash like you. Perhaps he realizes how insignificant peons like you really are. My bad…..

By fastasballs

July 24, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Some interesting trade talks going on to say the least. If we could pick up Tex for Devine & Jo JO, pull the trigger. As long as Cox is manager he’s never going to trust Devine in a crucial situation so if the Rangers are high on him, include him in the deal. They could also work a reliever in the deal from Texas as well.

Salty & another prospect for Ian Snell. I’d pull the trigger on that as well. Smoltz, Huddy, & Snell is a trio that could be counted on in the playoffs. Through in a few starts in the 4 spot by Chuckie. two lefties & two righties.

I wouldn’t dare trade Renteria, at least not this season. He’s too big a part of the offense & has been solid all year. No prolonged slumps & a decent glove.

Those of you thinking we couldn’t sign Tex past 2008 must remember that the contracts of Hampton, Andruw (after this season) Wickman(after this season), & Edgar are off the book by the end of 2008. A lot of money will be freed up to pay guys like Tex.

By Efrim

July 24, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Tennesee Paul,

I can’t see Jon Daniels being stupid enough to deal Tex within the division. Even if the Angels offer Kotchman and Santana. The Dodgers love Loney more than we love Salty. If Tex is traded, it will be to Atlanta. The question is if Salty will be enough. Texiera and Benoit for Salty and Matt Harrison might be worth it. Although I would hate to give up Harrison as well in the deal.

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 24, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

Is that the best you can do King Troll? Your inability to rationalize the concept of baseball is due your constant affinity for playing with yourself. Stop doing it and you may be able to post a blog that is baseball related f*******-k face.

By Albert Einstein

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

Imagination is more important than knowledge.

By TennesseePaul

July 24, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

KC: Technically they wouldn’t lose a pitcher in the deal that actually gets to pitch. Devine never sees the ball up here so I’m not to filled with hope that he is any answer in Atlanta. Ian Snell is a good pickup, so basically you are swapping JoJo for Ian.
Perhaps they won’t have to even do that. Maybe they trade Salty for Snell and deal Snell to the Rangers for Tex. I don’t know, but I don’t think the Dodgers and Angeles are going to get Tex. They actually have some level of production from their call ups. Plus, both those teams should be in the running for AJ this off season.
It’s all speculation. But whatever. I’d imagine the price tag will come down a tad for Teixeira the closer the deadline comes.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

July 24, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

Okay, going to take a break, looks like the riffraff have moved in for the day. Like the line from the movie, “I don’t know who you are but I do know what you are.” Later guys, I will post another scouting report this afternoon.

By AthensBrave

July 24, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

Ark Hillbilly, I agree…Sutcliffe is terrible, even worse than Joe Morgan and Tim McCarver. The guy talks out of his b-hole

By KC

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

Ya know fellas… this Braves team really isn’t far off. They could put it together and go on a run at any time. Truthfully, they should be on a tear right now. If not for Soriano’s struggles, they would be in the midst of a 9-2 run.

The offense looks pretty good to me. The starting pitching has really come around… so the bullpen (Soriano in particular) is all that’s left. I think the pen will be fine. Of course, I also think JS will add to it at some point over the next week.

When all is said and done, I feel pretty good about the Braves chances of playing October baseball. And if/when they get there… if Smoltz and Hudson are both healthy and sharp… anything is possible.

By P'Cola Michael

July 24, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

ARLINGTON – If the Rangers want to get the maximum value for some of their tradable commodities, it may make the most sense to package them in a bigger deal. Almost every contending club is interested in a Rangers reliever. Three clubs – the Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers and Atlanta – want first baseman Mark Teixeira. Sending a reliever such as Joaquin Benoit and Teixeira to the same club may allow the Rangers to get closer to the package they most desire. “We’re a week out and, as you’d expect, the pace and the number of calls have picked up a little,” general manager Jon Daniels said. “We’ll see what the next week brings.” Daniels would not discuss whether he was working on multiple deals with any one club. In a deal for Teixeira, the Angels, Dodgers and Braves each could give up one or more prospects plus a young first baseman – : Casey Kotchman (Angels), James Loney (Dodgers) or Jarod Saltalamacchia (Braves). While the Rangers would want more for Teixeira than a one-for-one swap, other clubs might be leery of “overpaying” with a premium prospect in a two-for-one deal. But if the Rangers include a reliever in the deal, they might be able to upgrade the level of prospect they receive and even expand the deal to include a second prospect

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

Efrim That’s not Soulman, it’s stinky, who has been a typing fool(and I emphasize fool)this morning. He has already posted under about three “names”.

To Stinky: Isn’t it about time for your shift? Those burgers are ready(for flippin’)when you are.

By Lee

July 24, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

I cannot see Salty for Tex an even-up trade. One proven star for an unknown one. If the Rangers are that stupid I can see why they are last in the standings every year. The Braves will have to include at least one other player if a trade if made.

By StingerSplash

July 24, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

All right, DOB, you got to let us know - what did Smoltz and Bonds say to each other last night after Barry’s last AB against him? I’m betting Smoltz was a little more forthcoming to the media than the often petulant, sometimes surly Mr. Bonds.

By geauxbraves2000

July 24, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

Agreed Lee.

I would think Texas would want more than Devine and Jo-Jo, I don’t think we get Tex w/o giving up Salty, IMO, but I’m no GM, and JS is quite good at what he does.

Geaux Braves!!

By Salty

July 24, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

Answers to questions not directed to DO’B, or a specific blogger (I got bored!):

1. What the f is wrong with him? And don’t tell me its fatique. Well…it’ not fatigue from what is known at this time.

2. • Why in the world did we pitch to albert with 2 outs and bases empty!?? * Who’s we? Soriano threw the ball!

3. . Why all the fuss over Soriano, a setup man? ‘Cause he’s settin’ up the wrong team, which is up settin’!!

4. So what the gell is this? What?

5. Whats the matter with this renteria guy? Is he real? Uh, oh…alien theory!?!

6. Why do teams wait until last hour before the deadline to make trades? Because they can (dog theory)

7. • What happens when we leave a dozen on base and plate 2?* Trick question? We score two…runs? I hate word problems!

8. Isn’t that like “kicking” a non-producing, older middle manager “upstairs” in the executive suite just to get him out of the production dept.? Yep, FUMU!

9. Why don’t some of you old sh!thouse philosophers take it someplace else?—how’s that for conveying a thought to the masses? That was a thought?

10. You think? I do

By TennesseePaul

July 24, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Efrim: I can’t see [the Rangers] being stupid enough to bid against themselves and give A-Rod a 252 million dollar deal. Sign Millwood to a 5 year 60 million dollar deal. Trade Chris Young and Adrian Gonzalez for an injured pitcher with stated desires to advance to free agency no matter what.

I’m not saying that the Rangers would deal to the Angeles, just that they are dumb enough to take the dumb course of action. But I think they are looking for players in return, in particular pitching since they keep signing bad pitchers and trading away good pitching prospects.
Stoneman is the exact opposite of Sabean. Sabean holds on to the old guys with a death grip and shuns youth as if it were a plague. Colletti was Sabeans man for quite a while. Colletti doesn’t hate young players as much, and also knows the value of young pitching, so I don’t think he’d make a move for Teixeira. Stoneman’s iron grip on his young players and having a productive first baseman would seem to limit the Angeles as a possibility.
I just like our chances. The two main competitors are somewhat non-competitors.

By Todd A

July 24, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

“Now don’t start all of your bullcrap and whining guys. You know who you are. A whole night last night spent second guessing every move that was made. You are the same ones that jump on the bandwagon everytime the Braves win.”

Uhhh Soulman…..I think the Braves won last night.So you could hardly say I was jumping on the bandwagon.And yeah,I was bashing our HOF manager again.Just because Soriano didn’t implode this time doesn’t make it the right move to stick him back out there again.

*”Thanks for straightening all that out, Todd A.

Got it.”Ok * DOB**,you got me there.I realize the post in question was a little redundant and probably a little unnecessary considering the Braves won,but… when he trotted Soriano out there again in the 8th I lost it.Every night it seems,we are reminded one of the major reasons why this franchise has only one WS ring in 14 playoff appearances.

By Cujo

July 24, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

Wow. Good one, No Chop. “F-face”…that’s great. You know…I’ve seen the light, thanks to your lucid eloquence, and balanced commentary. Because of you, I’ll abandon 40 years of Braves loyalty and start rooting for the Mets. You’ve really changed my mind. How could I have been so foolish all these years? Clearly, any team with such a loyal, intelligent fan base is THE team to pull for. Please keep up the posts. Maybe more Braves fans will come around to your way of thinking! How could they not?

By Smitty

July 24, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

I heard that Davies,Salty, and Devine for Teixiera and Joaquin Benoit is in the works

By Scoff

July 24, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Tenn. Paul

*Maybe they trade Salty for Snell and deal Snell to the Rangers for Tex. *

What sense does that make, the Rangers want Salty, not Snell.

By Lee

July 24, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

As stated earlier if one contender goes on a fairly impressive run that team is in the playoffs. The trouble with the Braves once they start on a good run they counteract it by losing to some mediocre teams. If anything this team needs a little fine tuning and not a major overhaul blockbuster deal. J.S. usually avoids major blockbuster deals and adds one or two minor pieces to fix the problem each year. Most of the time he is successful. I fully do not believe a major deal is in the works but only a lot of trade talk.

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

Todd A See my 11:26 to Efrim. That’s not Soulman, who I hope would take my back in similar circumstances.

By TampaBrave

July 24, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

For those of you crying about our bullpen, look at the Padres, arguably the best bullpen in the National League. Everyone out in SD are musing their shortcomings. Linebrink, who the Braves had coveted, has 6 blown saves.

Stop cryin!! It’s all relative with the bullpens.

By Will

July 24, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

There is no way the Braves would get Tex or any starting pitcher worth a crap for anything less then Salty involved in the deal. The braves are backed into a corner and the trade market sellers know it, there is no reason to not go after the Braves absolute best prospects.

By David O'Brien

July 24, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

Paladin: In answer to your question, yes, it would be beyond the pale to put Soriano on the DL if he’s not hurt and feels good. And even more beyond to simply sit him for 15 days and let him throw under “supervision,” thereby giving yourself a 24-man roster for that period.

If he’s not hurt and he’s just been struggling, as he and the Braves have said repeatedly (and would appear to be backed by his 95-mph gun readings and sinking movement on his fastball last night), then you don’t DL a guy.

Given what the Braves have in their bullpen, before any potential additions through trade, you’d hate to imagine how mediocre it would be without Soriano.

By N8

July 24, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

KC

Your 11:24 is pretty close. I too believe, as I stated yesterday, that in this weak NL East division, the Braves are 2 good trades away from being good “enough”.

But I think you overlook some things when referring to the “team”.

“Truthfully, they should be on a tear right now. If not for Soriano’s struggles, they would be in the midst of a 9-2 run.”

Fair enough. One can’t really argue with that. But last time I checked EVERY member of the team, is a a member of the team. The same arguement could’ve been made for 3 months about Andruw, Davies, Redman, Wilson, Langerhans. Even McCan had a down month.

I know what you’re getting at, and you’re right. But every person on the 25 man roster is on the “team” and in one way, shape, or form can and WILL effect the outcome of games.

The other thing to not forget, (and I know you haven’t), is that for 3 months the 3-5 spots in the rotation were SO BAD, that this bullpen (even the good arms) are showing signs of fatigue and being worn down. Most notably, Soriano.

So while Soriano seems like an easy target these days, I place the blame on his recent struggles squarely on the shoulders of Davies, Redman, Cormier and Lerew (even though he’s a rookie). Hell, give me enough time and I’ll find some way to blame Julio. LOL!

Then again, Bobby could give Soriano a couple days off (HEY YEAH!) too.

By TennesseePaul

July 24, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Rangers might be interested in good pitching over Salty. That’s what sense it makes. Rangers are always looking for pitching. Always.

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Y’all hold the fort. I’m headin’ out to “early” vote.

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

First of all I would like to tell the vets on this blog, that I love how they post and that I am trying so hard to get back in there good graces. I know I have not been forthright and honest posting on other such names as: Pro-tonix, Stinky, and many others.

I am trying to do better guys and would love to be in your “group”. I will bend over backwards for each and every one of you and let you do whatever you wish. I long to be known as a veteran of this blog and would love just to have a drink with you guys.

By Lee

July 24, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Everyone - Joe Morgan has spoken on the trade subject.

Joe, do you think Mark Teixeira will be traded before the deadline, and if so where might he end up?

Joe Morgan: (11:40 AM ET ) I am not sure he will be traded. Texas may wait until next year to deal him. But if he does go somewhere everyone seems to be thinking it will be the Yankees. But I do not know if they want to raise that payroll. I do not see Teixeira being traded this year especially coming off an injury. Texas would probably get more value for him next year since he is not having a great season.

By David O'Brien

July 24, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Meant to post last night that Bobby said after the game he plans to start Julio Franco again at 1B Tuesday and Wednesday, then rest him for the day game Thursday….

Good point, TampaBrave. And it’s that time of year, when overworked bullpens (i.e., just about all bullpens) show cracks. Plenty of time for said bullpens to get through a rough period, add an arm or two through trades, and hit their stride again for September/October. The teams that manage to do that, often are the teams that are playing their best ball entering the postseason….

By Lew

July 24, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

NoBrainZone-Speak when you’re spoken too, you little moron. Compared to you ANYONE would know more about baseball. It takes a pretty stupid person to come onto a Braves’ blog talking trash about the most widely acknowledged underperforming team of the year. Your team has a losing record for more than two months and you’re telling us how bad we are? You are clueless and obnoxious. I think I can successfully say that my baseball knowledge has been much more accepted on this blog than yours has. All along I’ve told you that El Duque and Alou were injury prone -They both have been on the DL. I told you your hitters would slump-they have. I told you your pitching couldn’t maintain the level of April and early May-The result since the middle of May - Glavine +1.12 runs per game on his ERA, Maine + .92 since May 15, Perez +.46 rpg, Sosa + 1.11 rpg, El Duque +1.01 rpg. Chan Ho Park gone. Pelfrey-Gone back to the minors cause he couldn’t win a single game. I told you your bullpen wouldn’t perform to last year’s standards. The result-Mota 6 runs per game and the rest barely adequate. So, Little Mosquito boy. Where have I been wrong in my predictions? As for yours, you swore the Mets would have the best record in baseball-they don’t. You said the Mets would run away with the division-They haven’t. You said they would bury the Braves-They haven’t. Keep hoping Pedro is your salvation. It will only give me one more thing to laugh about. Your knowledge of baseball couldn’t even fill a thimble, Mosquito Boy. Go back to playing with yourself.

By Will

July 24, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

Tampa Brave, I would not say anyone is crying about the bullpen. It has been god awful lately minus a couple bright spots. There is nothing wrong with pointing out the fact the bullpen is struggling and there is no comparison to SD’s pen, no matter what linebrink has done, Braves pen blew 3 games in 5 days last week and it was the same guy each time.

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

Before I go:

Thank you, *DOB, for your polite and informative answer.

Tampa Brave You complaining about people “crying” is like Jack the Ripper b***’ about his razor being dull.

By BamaBrave

July 24, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

Sutcliffe is the Scott Weiland* of baseball commentators…without some quantity of brain-altering chemicals in his system (in his case, alcohol), the performance is mediocre at best.

*obscure musical reference of the day

By Shaun

July 24, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

TennPaul and others,

I don’t see the Braves giving up young pitching if they don’t have to. I could be way off, but I see a Salty-Teixeira deal as the most likely scenario with maybe some throw-in pieces from both sides and cash considerations from the Rangers.

I just don’t see the Braves moving Reyes or Devine for a guy they’ll have just until the end of 2008. Pitching is hard to come by. I don’t see the Braves trading young pitching unless they get quality veteran pitching in return.

Devine is still only 23 and I think the Braves still see him as the closer of the future. And we’ve all seen what Reyes is capable of.

By Todd A

July 24, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Ok Paladin.If it wasn’t him,then my apologies.

By Amber

July 24, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

**By Dark Shadows

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

Absolutely amazing…anything remotely close to the plate is a called strike for Smoltz while the poor sap on the other team gets squeezed all night. It’s been that way for years.**

This is why: Smoltz knows how to pitch. He demonstrates excellent control over every pitch way more often than a lot of other pitchers. Yes, I’m aware of his wild pitch. No, I’m not saying he’s perfect. But he has a proven track record and is still a great pitcher, so for most umps he’ll be allowed close calls to go his way.

On the other hand, Matt Cain showed absolutely no knowledge of how to throw a strike. Four walks in as many innings is a poor demonstration of control. He’s not going to get close calls.

That’s just how it is. If you don’t know where the h*ll the plate is or how to pitch, you’re not going to get the benefit of the doubt on close calls.

By Hammer'd The Braves

July 24, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

I can understand why the Braves took a flyer on Franco. Not that I agree, but I can understand it. I can even understand getting him some at-bats to see if he has anything left in the tank. But Cox is starting to move from the logical to the ludicrous here. Does he think giving him 20 at-bats a week is going to miraculously speed up his bat? “Rest him on Thursday” sounds a little too much like a fulltime player to me.

By Tomahawkin' Again

July 24, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

DOB we’re all theorizing about it here on this blog, many baseball writers such as K. Rosenthal, Stark, etc. are writing about it, but what are you hearing being around the club and what do you think shakes down in the next week? To read that JS and the Braves are being the most creative and aggressive GM/team in trying to make deals is very encouraging to this Braves fan. Teixeira, Snell, and some of the other names floating out there all make sense, now we just have find the right dance partners to pull the trigger. I want October baseball for Braves Nation…last year stunk!

By Arkansas Hillbilly

July 24, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Bama Brave,

Pretty good comparison at 12:08. I was gonna say he is the Bill Walton of baseball commentators. Big, dumb-sounding, red-headed, and full of hot air and stupidity.

By Renegator

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

The Braves really need some fresh relievers - especially at least one left handed one. Obviously Bobby doesn’t trust Ledezma or he would have pitched more often - same with Paronto. It seems like we only trot Moylan, Yates, Soriano, and Wickman out no matter what the score or how many days in a row they have pitched.

I am also concerned that if we trade Salty (not for another 1B option) we are stuck with Thorman and Franco at first. Now, obviously Bobby is in love with Franco, but does anyone really think he is going to cut it as an almost everyday first baseman?

By JasonInMaine

July 24, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

BamaBrave,

How’s Velvet Revolver? I used listen to some STP back in the day. I liked the Purple album myself…Kitchen Ware & Candy Bars.

Of course, I was under differnt…uh, let’s say…influences back then (: Luckily, I have changed my lifestyle a little.

Regards,

Jason

By Will

July 24, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Not only do i not see the Braves moving some of their young pitching for some of the guys discussed on here, but i definitely do not see the Rangers giving up Mark Texiera for that. Talking trade scenarios is a fun thing to do, but in real life the Braves are going to have to give up ALOT of talent for any good player in return.

By Lew

July 24, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

Hammered-At least Julio is playing good defense-much better than either Salty or Thorman. Maybe they are just trying to see what he’s got left while there’s still enough time to do another deal if necessary. Hell, they’re paying him about as much as a coach. Maybe that’s all he has left in him and if that’s the case, what have we lost?. At any rate, we’ll know soon, won’t we? He knocked hell out of that double last night, so apparently the tank ain’t empty quite yet.

By Will

July 24, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Hammer’d the Braves, I totally agree on Franco. He is gonna go 2-4 once in awhile, but he can barely get around on a average fastball anymore. I know he has always hit to rightfield, but its alot worse this time around. That is downright scary if Julio is trotting out there more then 1-2 times a week tops to play first base.

By TampaBrave

July 24, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

Will,

Sounds like moaning more than crying. I have said all along that we should all be moaning IN HARMONY about the REAL culprit, getting baseruners to actually score on a consistent basis. I have documented several times that the braves have scored 3 or fewer runs 40 times and are 7-33 in those games. Thats worth moaning about. To complain about the pitcher giving up the lead when we had only scored 2 runs is shortsighted.

Paladin, Easy big fella. I’ve got a commitment to the truth brother. The truth must be told. The truth does cut like a knife sometimes.

By Braveheart

July 24, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

DOB, I don’t like bothering you by asking questions directly, but I am kind of fascinated to know about the current makeup of the team with regard to the cliques and who are the leaders and who do the kids gravitate towards and how have kids like Frenchy and McCann developed within the clubhouse dynamics. Do they all love Smoltz? Who is in Smoltz’ clique? It seems Frenchy is and that Laroche was (at least from what I have gathered by reading the blog over the last year or so - Tiger Woods golf outing). Are the guys in the pen tight? Does anyone take Davies or James or JoJo under their wing kind of like Glavine did with Damian Moss (at least how it appeared to a casual fan watching the dugout when Glavine always seemed to sit with him and talk out the issues). The dynamics of the coaching staff would be fun to know as well.

Are their vets who reach out to loners like Willy Aybar? What happens with a guy like Soriano when he is struggling like he is? Is his loner nature a detriment with regard to teammates being able to pat him on the back or give him advice or is he too intimidating and people are afraid to say anything positive to him for fear he will take it as an insult because of pride and he doesn’t want anyone looking down on him (if even only from his own proud perception of himself and his standards and how he wants to be viewed and treated)? Does his loner nature work to his detriment as well as to his benefit depending upon his successes and circumstances?

I know you have to be careful about revealing too much of that stuff for fear of alienating people who enable you to have unique insight and gather and report news but it would be fun to know about some of that stuff. I also know it can be hard to give a definitive answer on something like that sometimes because like all of our lives, a clubhouse must be a place with alot of flux. One who is our friend today is not our friend tomorrow but will be our friend again next month.

It would be helpful too because I remember you jumped on me in spring training when I incorrectly believed the BRaves would miss Giles’ veteran leadership. YOu compared him to Laroche and basically said people were going to miss Laroche more than Giles. YOu didn’t say this specifically but the impression I got from your chincheck was that Giles was like Jay and Laroche like Silent Bob. People like Jay in small doses before he grates on your last nerve but Silent Bob could meld into whatever clique or corner of the lockerroom with his humor, laidback, and unassuming nature. But your insight on that was great because it cleared a misconception I had from watching the dugout where Giles was always acting like a madman with the rookies like Frenchy (who seemed to feed too much off of Giles mania in trying to prove he was tough enough to stick).

But anyways, I would appreciate knowing some more of that stuff so that I don’t say anything stupid again next spring training about the dynamics of the clubhouse.

Thanks for the blog.

By Lew

July 24, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

Jason-The first Velvet Revolver CD was one of the best Hard Rock albums in several years. The second just came out a week or so ago and is also pretty good. Actually, they are some of the best Hard Rock since Appetite For Destruction, which I consider one of the last GREAT Hard Rock efforts. Couldn’t begin to speculate on the extent of Slash’s extracurricular drug use these days, but he still plays well. Scott Wieland is more than adequate. Matt Sorum on drums is good and the bass player is still standing after all these years.

By Lee

July 24, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

Renegator -

If Salty is involved in a trade and it does not include a 1st baseman, hopefully the Braves will acquire someone to play first. Not only is Franco not an everyday 1st baseman I do not think a platoon of him and Thorman will provide enough offense to carry the Braves at that position either.

By David O'Brien

July 24, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

T-hawkin’, the Braves are involved in such a vast number of talks with so many teams, that what you’re hearing is this team official or this scout telling this writer what he heard, sometimes two or three weeks ago, sometimes last night. Most of the info has substance, but sometimes it’s outdated, since a team might have acquired a player to fill a need since so-and-so was discussed.

There is very little talk “around the club” about the inner-workings, which the Braves have famously have treated as more sensitive and more secretive than any team in baseball, hands-downs, and probably more secretive than any team in professional sports. There are very, very few leaks that ever come out of this airtight organization’s front office, so what you hear almost always comes from teams they’ve talked to about a possible deal, rather than info coming from the Braves.

In the last 5-10 years, a group of national reporters have emerged on the internet, several of them also working for TV, and they’re good reporters whose primary and, usually, sole responsibility is to get information about possible trades. They don’t cover games, score games, write notebooks about a team, hang out for hours in the clubhouse of a particular team, or travel to a particular team’s games.

What they do, and do well, is talking to dozens and dozens of team officials on the phone every day, or in person at the ballpark where they’re working for television and have excellent access because of it. Then they throw against the wall all or most of what they hear. It’s hard to wade through it all and pick out what is the more valid rumor, what is timely, what is pure speculation on the part of one person or another. But when one or two rumors out of dozens actually come to fruition, that reporter can rightfully claim to have had a scoop.

This is my roundabout way of telling you, I cover a team that is notoriously private and secretive, a team that often (such as now) doesn’t sent one of its highest-ranking team officials on the road with the team (no Schuerholz, no Wren on this trip), a team that, more often than not, you have to rely on information you get from the other side of discussions in order to get any info at all, and then have to use your judgment of pregnant pauses, body languages and no comments to discern the validity of such info, as far as the Braves are concerned.

It is not a simple business, nor is covering it. And if only there was someone you could call each day and have them go, “we’re leaning towards doing this” or “that rumor is groundless,” it’d be quite easy for anyone with a phone to cover the team.

But it’s not. It’s not anywhere like that.

By David O'Brien

July 24, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, if I told you who the leaders are, who the guys respect the most, what couple of guys drew the most “most intelligent person I’ve met in baseball” among Braves from responses for an anonymous Sports Illustrated survey I just did of the players, I’d only get ridiculed by several here who think they know more from watching the teams on TV or in the stands than the actual players or the folks paid to cover the team. So I won’t go down that path, since it’s not worth it. I’ll just let said folks continue believing what they believe.

By Will

July 24, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

Tampa Brave, Have to agree with you on the run production. It is baffling to look at this lineup sometimes and see the lack of runs some games. I told a friend when it was 2-0 Braves in the 5th on Sunday night that i had a feeling they were gonna lose cause they had hit the ball so hard, so often and only had 2 runs to show for it. Partially cause it was right at someone, and partially because of bad baserunning (and bad ump calls). I am not gonna give Soriano a reprieve though because the Braves “only” had 1 run on Wed and 2 runs on Sunday. He is facing Adam Dunn who obviously tries to jack every pitch and what does he do? he throws it right down the middle. Then Sunday night Albert Pujols, same deal, he is gonna try to tie it with one swing and Soriano again puts it right over the plate. I just do not have any sympathy for Soriano. He blew those leads whether it was 7-6 when he came in or 1-0, its still a 1 run lead and a good set up guy HAS to protect that.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

July 24, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

I know most will disagree with me, but I would trade Salty for Texiera in a minute. If I’m JS I add Devine or Smith and see if the Rangers would send CJ Wilson and if not settle for Benoit. The Braves are in the best position to get Tex and they need him badly. Tex would be here next season and the money would be there to sign him in 2009.

I would then call the Pirates and see if Marte is available with Davies as the bait.

Actually I think a deal of Salty/Davies for Texeira/Wilson or Benoit would be great. I think the Rangers would do that deal in a heartbeat.

By JasonInMaine

July 24, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Excellent…thanks for the information. I have to admit that I am not as much of a music buff as I used to be. I certainly do not have the diversity as some of you fine folks on here. I have gone through different phases, but I primarily enjoy classic rock, grunge, and went through a partying phase where the heavier the better.

I am excited to checkout Velvet Revolver…now that I think of it; I believe they were mentioned in a recent blog, but it went over my head…

Regards,

Jason

By Efrim

July 24, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

DOB

What is you opinion on what they should do?

Texiera? Middle Relievers? Starting pitcher? All of the above?

By jon

July 24, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

DOB…to be honest man..if I were in your position..I would have quit anaylzing what MIGHT happen a long time ago lol…it never seems to happen the way people say it will. Kinda like this Tex trade…honestly..do you think it will happen?!?!? NAH!!!

By Lew

July 24, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave-Dude, when you only score two runs, IT IS ESSENTIAL that the pitchers not give up leads. That’s the reason we went 7-33 in those games. The pitchers didn’t maintain the lead (if in fact we led in some of those games at all-which is also the pitcher’s fault). I remember many times during our 14 straight, the offense wasn’t always “all that”. The pitchers picked up the slack. You just have to face facts that the offense is not going to score 5+ runs every night. That record indicates poor pitching to me-not poor hitting. Sometimes the pitching has to do their job and pick up the hitters when they have an off night. Sometimes the hitters need to bail out the pitchers. You can’t blame it just on one aspect of the team like you’re trying to do. Look at the Padres-They can’t hit worth a damn yet they are still winning. The point is that if we have the lead, it is then the pitcher’s responsibility to maintain the lead-not the hitter’s responsibility to score so much that the pitchers can fail and we still win.

By Ron Roberts

July 24, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Bravesfan… You mean somebody speculated that Joey Devine could be trade bait, eh?

I seem to recall saying that a coupla weeks ago and a certain beat writer derided me for it.

Interesting.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

July 24, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

Since Julio Franco made it back to the major leagues with the Braves in 2001 he has averaged 1 HR every 43 at bats. He is a first baseman , which is traditionally a power position. He isn’t the answer. From everything I have read , the Braves are making a serious run at Mark Teixeira. The payroll is going up and Andruw is leaving , AJ’s bat and RBI production will need to be replaced in 2008 and Teixeira is a great player to spend the money on.

By KC

July 24, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

N8: You’re right. There could always be an “if only”… but the difference is that it’s one guy who has been consistently dominant, not only this season, but for several years. For him to be almost single-handedly responsible for each of the Braves last 3 losses qualifies as a freak occurrence.

You wouldn’t hear me saying “well if only Kyle Davies had pitched better…”

Soriano is a part of the team, just like everyone else, and those games we should have won look the same in the standings as the roundly poor losses.

My point is that we should be able to count on Soriano to leave this slump behind him. As soon as we can all be confident that he has done so… I think the Braves will be in very good shape.

If Soriano and Wickman are both healthy and sharp, we have a good bullpen. The rotation looks like it might be stabilizing, and the offense looks good I think.

So if we can get beyond this little Soriano hiccup, the outlook seems like a positive one to me.

By TennesseePaul

July 24, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

Per Velvet Revolver, this latest album reminds me more of an STP album than a GnR album. The first Velvet Revolver reminded me more of a GnR album. Not that the sounds of the three bands are that close. Just the feel of the rock contained within, if that makes sense. I like them both and wouldn’t argue against them being the best main stream hard rock band out there. Not sure about all streams as I haven’t heard them all, but so far this is pretty good. More enjoyable than the last Audio Slave album anyway.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

July 24, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

The Braves could offer Salty and Devine for Texeira and then offer Davies and Esquivel for Blanton of the A’s. Beane may laugh OR he may not.

By Will

July 24, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, You may have been blown crap for mentioning Joey Devine as trade bait and probably rightfully so. I continue to not understand why some of us Braves fans think that every other team would just jump at the chance to have anyone and everyone that is supposedly good in the farm system. Then the Braves can just turn around and pilpher a team for a great player in return for a few of the Braves endless wealth of prospects. Bottom line is Joey Devine has done absolutely nothing to deem trade value. I would hang up the phone if John S. wanted to put him in the deal. Last year in Sports Illustrated one anonymous GM said when John S. calls and wants to give you pitching hang up the phone and run out of the room. The Braves are not dumb enough to give up great young pitching, but its the reverse with Devine, i bet they would give him up, but who in the world would want him??

By KC

July 24, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Coach: Julio isn’t the answer to anything except maybe a need for a solid veteran pinch-hitter.

I think right now, Bobby’s trying to get him some AB’s to get his timing down. I’m hopeful after that, we’ll see the young guys start more often at 1B. The ceiling for Salty (and even Thorman, I still believe) seems pretty high. Better to get them in the lineup and let them develop.

But personally, I’m not overly concerned about what happens at 1B, because we’re in good shape offensively at every other position.

By Ron Roberts

July 24, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Jon… interesting article, indeed. Heck, it paraphrases basically what Shaun and I went round-and-round about when debating whether it’s in our best interests to trade Saltalamacchia for Teixeira or not.

By Efrim

July 24, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

KC,

You do agree that we need a left handed reliever though, right?

C.J Wilson or Damaso Marte.

In fact, I would consider this trading deadline a disaster if we didn’t acquire one. I believe JS will find a way.

By KC

July 24, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

NB: Just wanted to note… I’m not saying the Braves will put it all together and go on a run. I just feel they’re not that far out of kilter, and it wouldn’t take much for them to do so.

Of course, I thought last year’s team was capable of more. I still believe that. so it’s possible that the Braves will again underachieve. But if I had to guess… I still think this Braves team will still win 90 games. They’re on pace for 86 wins, and I think they’re capable of playing much better.

By Shaun

July 24, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave,

According to BaseballReference.com, the Braves have scored 3 runs or less 39 times. Sixteen teams have scored 3 runs or less as many or more than 39 times this season.

San Diego has the best record of anyone when scoring 3 runs or less, 18-29 (.383 WPct).

Atlanta ranks 17th, 7-32 (.179), more or less in the middle of the back in such games.

The Braves have scored 5 runs or more 48 times. Only the Dodgers, Phillies, Rockies, Marlins and Reds have done this as many or more times than the Braves. And the Phillies, Rockies and Reds play in extreme hitters parks.

The Braves rank 5th in the league in most runs scored and 9th in most runs allowed.

No matter which way you slice it, it seems like the Braves are scoring enough runs as consistently as anybody else in the league. Pitching is the problem.

By KC

July 24, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Efrim: Yeah… I’ll be surprised if JS doesn’t pull off a trade for a lefty by the deadline.

By Metropolitan Man

July 24, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Boston threw me away and then Milwalkee decided I wasnt good enough for their town. Atlanta has put up with me but I feel my days here are numbered. What sports franchise am I?????

Hint: I won a ton of division titles which helped me stay HERE a little longer than I’m use too.

Thats for you braveheart.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

July 24, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

My guess is the Braves are considering trading Renteria and Thorman for Teixeira. It makes perfect sense. Escobar is a superior defensive SS and Teixeira is an offensive upgrade. Not to mention he is a switch hitter and a gold glove first baseman. It gives the Rangers payroll relief and a two for one trade. It upgrades the Braves offense , defense and Salty is still trade bait. John Schuerholz , make it happen.

By Braveheart

July 24, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the reply DOB. I understand. More trouble than it is worth.

I guess it is like a marriage. So many of us can stand outside of a marriage or any professional or personal relationship and pick it apart but have no idea what makes it work or what the dynamics are if we are on the outside looking in. Doesn’t matter how many tell us that the marriage is good or what the strengths are that make it work, we are all gonna believe what we wanna believe anyway.

But thanks for the reply. That chincheck you threw at me on the Giles/Laroche misconception/speculation by me was such an eye opener to me back then. I learned that our lying eyes can deceive us with what we watch on t.v. because of your clarification.

By Ron Roberts

July 24, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Will… Joey Devine was improperly utilized by Bobby Cox every time he put the kid out there, in my opinion.

That being said, every team’s out there looking for young arms that can bring heat. Joey Devine fits that bill, plus he’s hovering around AA-AAA and the majors at a young age, and performing well in the minors. It’s not his fault Bobby Cox isn’t comfortable using him. We’re talking about the same manager who brought Dan Kolb out R E P E A T E D L Y and brought out Chris Reitsma R E P E A T E D L Y so consider the mind running the machine, here.

Joey Devine was a first round draft pick of ours, too. So he’s obviously of some value.

I’m not one of the Braves’ fan-types who believes every minor league prospect is worth his weight in gold, either. I argued heartily against those who wanted to boot Adam Laroche last season to play James freaking Jurries. I’m the same Braves fan who argued with those who’d prefer to play Saltalamacchia everyday and trade McCann. So do me a favor, plese, and don’t roll me into some pie-in-the-sky fan who believes everything BravesNation is superior to the other MLB teams.

I fashion myself to be a bit more a realist.

By Joe Schmoe

July 24, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

So…

I’m sitting here pretending to work but in actuality I’m thinking about what this team could look like a week from tomorrow. I think it’s pretty remarkable the pieces that the front office have accrued that other teams are asking for. I know the criticism is that not enough front of the rotation power pitchers have been developed, but look at how many there are in the bigs right now, where they were drafted, the number of teams in the majors and you’ll realize just how difficult it is.

Now, the reason for my posting is to throw out hypotheticals. Everyone is talking about Tex replacing Andruw’s numbers next year, but what if we got Tex and the payroll went up enough that we were able to make room to Andruw as well. I know this won’t happen, but think about it. Ok, so if we had to include Renteria in a trade for another starter, we certainly would wind up with a decent one and improving the rotation. Lillibridge and Yunel can fight over SS and Brandon Jones would be ready to fight Willie and Diaz for LF.

Imagine a lineup with Tex, Chipper, Andruw, McCann, Francoeur, Kelly, and whoever wins LF and SS. That could and probably would be best in the NL. Throw out a rotation of Smoltz, Hudson, the starter from the Renteria trade and James, then let Hampton, Carlyle, Reyes, Harrison, Davies, etc. fight over the fourth spot with the others either being stashed in the bullpen or developing more in the minors waiting on their chance or sent out in a trade for more bullpen help and that’s a heck of a team.

So, I’m sorry if no one wants to hear me daydream but this could/would happen without the need for a $200 payroll like the Yankees or Sox. Sure, there’s the little thing of the 20 million Liberty Media would have to find laying around somewhere, but man if they did…

By Shaun

July 24, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

I don’t know that we debated whether it’s in the Braves’ best interest to trade Salty for Teixeira. I think the details of the trade are what we went round-and-round about.

I’m all for the trade with the right stipulations—either the Braves get a prospect (and give up a little more, possibly) or the Rangers give them enough cash to cover a large portion of Teixeira’s salary until he becomes a free agent at the end of next season.

By Greg in TN

July 24, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Afternoon denizens…

Some thoughts before work again intrudes on baseball.

Gil, thanks again for the Richmond updates and please keep them coming. I’ll be in Myrtle Beach to see the Pelicans in two weeks and will let everyone know what I see in the one game I am afforded.

On an earlier blog, I mentioned that Chipper was my team MVP for the season, but Smoltz certainly deserves consideration. I looked back quickly (so by all means correct me if I’m wrong) and on games following a loss, Smoltz has won six, so he’s gone a long way toward righting the ship when it’s been listing. I’ll double check my numbers and check Hudson, James and the others tonight when I get in, but six victories after a loss the game before is quite a statement to me.

I was happy to see Soriano work things out last night although an ill timed work call kept me from seeing it. I’ve read some from fellow bloggers that indicate he was able to get much more movement on pitches last night. Very encouraging sign.

I did see the 3-6-3 double play from Franco and the leap he made to spear the chopper. His hits last night notwithstanding, he’s still struggling at the plate, however if there is an impending move at 1B and Julio is a placeholder, we need to know now if he’s going to be a trusted bat off the bench. I’d rather find out now with him getting ABs than in September as far as how much he has left in the tank.

By Shaun

July 24, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion),

Except the Rangers have a SS signed to a long-term deal, why would they want Renteria?

I guess you could argue they could move Young to second but they also have a good, young secondbaseman.

The only thing that trade would give the Rangers is an expensive backup middle infielder.

By Braveheart

July 24, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

MetroMan, I don’t think that is really you. Metroman would have immediately replied with that TWO DAYS AGO. I suspect that is someone posing as MetroMan. Metroman is quicker on the draw. The two delay in response to my anti-Mets rant is more indicative of the slower mind of someone else. Metroman knows his history and would not have had to spend two days researching it. If that is really you Metroman, then good response because I know you were just busy and that is why it took you two days. If that is not really you, then I know who it is, and I am not surprised at all in the slow response.

By Mets Rule. You Drool

July 24, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Does anyone else wonder why Paladin feels the need to tell us everytime he goes to the bathroom, stumps a toe, goes to vote etc. etc. etc. Seriously man, the blog will be fine while you’re gone. We’ll try to make it without you. lol

By Joe Schmoe

July 24, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

Hey Coach,

I don’t think the Rangers want/need another shortstop after Michael Young just signed that extension. He did play 2B when A-Rod was still in town, but they really like Kinsler there now. Maybe a third baseman to replace Blalock next year, but not a shortstop.

By Ron Roberts

July 24, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

That’s cool, Shaun, but the FoxSports.com article said “straight up,” bro.

By Will

July 24, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, Fair enough, i will never argue with someone saying Bobby Cox misuses pitching.

Coach(Hank Aaron is the real…) Why in the hell would another team want Scott Thorman?? You are a perfect example of a fan who thinks another team would want anybody and everybody the Braves have to offer just cause it sounds good. That is absolutely laughable. Not to mention they already have Michael Young and shortstop, but i guess they might as well get Edgar too. That trade makes perfect sense to you, but it makes beyond no sense for the Texas Rangers. That is just outlandish.

By TampaBrave

July 24, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Will,

I’d be on the pitching staff in a game where we lose 7-6 runs, I’m calling out the offense if we lose 2-1, especially if the pitcher is a scrub.

I really think this team’s forte is offense, or at least I think it was intended to be that way when it was put together. Quite the opposite from the golden days.

Lew,

You can’t see the forest because of the trees. I expect us to get shut down by the Becketts and the Peavy’s, not the Bergmans or the Silvas. For example, and there are many I could choose, we scored two runs against that scrub for St. Louis the other night. Soriano gives up a HR to Pujols. The pitchers gave up 2 runs in 9 innings and thats the reliever’s fault? If Reyes had not given up the 1st run, we would have won. Could it be Reyes’ fault? He should have known that it could be a low scoring game and that 1 run could win it. You can go on forever with these batter vs pitcher scenarios, but we ONLY scored 2 runs. Who’s responsibility is that?

By N8

July 24, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

KC

“Just wanted to note… I’m not saying the Braves will put it all together and go on a run. I just feel they’re not that far out of kilter, and it wouldn’t take much for them to do so.”

I’m right there with you. I’m not sold that they WILL go on a run, or even come close to making the playoffs. But they are talented enough to do so.

All I’m saying is, at this point (100 games into a 162 game schedule), they have shown me NOTHING to make me believe that they can win 6-7 out of 10 games to catch the Mets, much less pass them.

There is NO DOUBT they have the talent to do so.

As for your earlier post about Soriano being so dominant all year and hitting a bump in the road, making him responsible for some of the recent losses. I still think he’s tired, due to overuse. Maybe the heat is getting to him, maybe all the pressure situations earlier in the year finally caught up to him. I’m not sure what it is. But something ain’t right.

By hammer'd The Braves

July 24, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

“I have documented several times that the braves have scored 3 or fewer runs 40 times and are 7-33 in those games”

No kidding on the several. But as yet you haven’t produced any stats on how the often the rest of the league scores 3 or fewer, or their records in such games. Maybe the stat guy on the blog can run those, if you don’t care to. Until there’s some comparison to make between the Braves and other teams, this stat is meaningless by and of itself.

By dgd

July 24, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

DOB—Thanks much for the “Solitary Man” recommendation. Just got back from the beach and there it was. The whole CD is good, but JC’s version of “One” sends chills down my spine. Anyone who’s either lost at love, or been married a long time can’t help but be moved by that song…….

By Will

July 24, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Tampa Brave, I understand your point, but i agree with what someone else said earlier that the bottom line is if you are a good bullpen you hold a lead no matter how little amount of runs it is. You dont p** away a 2-1 8th inning lead and then say well if the offense would have scored more this would not have happened. That is not how baseball works. You have to win alot of 1-0, 2-1, 3-2 baseball games to be a great team.

By Jared

July 24, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I’m sure teams are really falling all over themselves to give value for Joey Devine. Almost as dumb as the “what can we get for Mike Gonzalez and Will Startup” post a few days ago.

Teams don’t give up value for nothing-special minor leaguer relief pitchers, pitchers who just had season-ending Tommy John surgery or a relief pitcher who has no trust from Bobby Cox.

I really want that Mark Texireria guy. I see it as addition by subtration. His addition means the subtration of at-bats for Thorman and Franco.

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 24, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

Listen LEW you little pecker head. I never predicted that the Mets would run away with the division, have the best record in baseball or bury the braves. All I ever stated was that the Mets would win the division and the braves would not. Injuries are part of sports and I didn’t expect the Mets to duplicate their 2006 success. The Mets have given the braves every opportunity to overtake the division and they’ve failed time and time again. Why? they’re not that great LEW-SER. Get your sh-it straight before your quote me A*******wipe.

By Shaun

July 24, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

Will,

Devine is still very young. It’s way too early. I’m sure a lot of teams would love to have a guy with his potential. Granted, it’s still potential, and young pitching is unpredictable.

I actually don’t see the Braves parting with Devine unless they get a good bit in return.

It seems that a few folks don’t realize young players often times get better.

By Bill

July 24, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

Renteria will not be going to Texas. They have a good SS and one of the best young 2nd baseman. The Braves would be crazy to include Reyes or Harrison in a trade.If Renteria is trade I think it will be to Chisox. They don’t need to go crazy and trade away alot of prospects.

By Shaun

July 24, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

Here’s what Ken Rosenthal says:

“One rival general manager says that if he were in the Braves’ position, he would do Saltalamacchia-for-Teixeira straight up; Teixeira, a prolific hitter and Gold Glove defender, could be that big of a difference-maker, the GM says.

“The Braves, though, would be giving the Rangers not just a premium young talent, but also significant salary relief. In recent years, clubs have been willing to grant one or the other, but not both.”

In other words, a pure straight-up deal isn’t likely. Teixeira makes too much money. The Braves would likely want some cash in addition to Tex if it were straight-up Tex for Salty.

By Ron Roberts

July 24, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

Blah blah blah, NCZ. The Braves were 6-3 in the first half against the Mets, and we’ll go 6-3 the second half too. That means we’ll make up our 3 game deficit head-to-head. That’s the game plan.

By Luther

July 24, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Amber

That’s just how it is. If you don’t know where the hll the plate is or how to pitch, you’re not going to get the benefit of the doubt on close calls.*

Exactly right. And Smoltz knows how to pitch. When Ray Durham p** and moaned about the high and tight slider, Smoltz came right back with the same pitch. If you show up the ump like Durham, for the most part you’re not getting the benefit of the doubt on close calls and Smoltz knows that. Finally Smoltz K’s him on a slider under that hands that i think was about as unhittable a pitch as a righty can throw to a lefty, but Durham has to be swinging at anything because of the last two calls and again Smoltz knows this.

By Shaun

July 24, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave,

hammer’d The Braves is right.

The Tigers are 8-24 in games in which they score 3 runs or fewer. The Red Sox are 8-26. Looking at those type games don’t tell you a lot.

Will,

That last post may sound like I think Devine is the next Eck. What I meant was the Braves will likely want a little too much and other teams won’t give up quite enough for Atlanta to part with Devine.

By Ron Roberts

July 24, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

Shaun… (sigh) Congrats; the writer sides with you while the actual G.M. sees it my way. We both win.

By BamaBrave

July 24, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

I’ve wondered that too Mets Rule…

Based on TennesseePaul’s comment about this latest Velvet Revolver CD being more like STP than GnR, I’ll have to check it out. Gracias.

I read Grienke’s name every now and then in the trade speculations…so I looked him up through mlb.com. Here’s what it says, in part: “Greinke left Spring Training early for psychological counseling and spent most of the summer with Wichita. He was 8-4, including two playoff starts, and exhibited a high-strikeout, low-walk tendency. The Royals hope he can regain his 8-11, 3.97 ERA form of his rookie season.”

“Psychological counseling”? I wonder if this is sports counseling? or…?

By David O'Brien

July 24, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOG IS UP

By Loser Met Fan Who Lives in Mom's basement

July 24, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

The Mets will win the division! Alou is coming back! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! And Pedro Martinez is unstopable. Repent now Braves’ fans! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

If only my penis wasn’t so small, I wouldn’t need to get my kicks trolling a rival sports team’s blog. Oh well! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

I just returned, and I don’t need to tell you, Drool fool when I go to the bathroom; you are directly involved.

I also see where my “name” was used in vain, again. Well, I’m just glad that I am proud of my name and don’t need to use so many others.

And, I said earlier that I had a “better command of the mother-tongue”, etc. That’s because that command takes intelligence, education and a little “seasoning”. The one who stinks, obviously, has none of the three.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

July 24, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Wow , you guys described Renteria as an expensive back up infielder and Thorman as a first baseman nobody would want and they are both current Braves. Well , gee whiz Wally , our team must really stink ! No , I hit way to close to somebody’s very real trade proposal and they don’t like it.

By Shaun

July 24, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

Actually the GM didn’t mention cash stipulations. Maybe he thought there should be some, maybe he thought there shouldn’t. Seems like Rosenthal was just expanding on the GM’s basic thought and giving some background info.

I just have a hard time believing that there wouldn’t be cash stipulations if it were a straight-up deal, considering the Braves would be giving up a younger, cheaper player who would have value for the next decade and getting a more expensive, older guy that could be gone after next year.

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

Oh, takin’ up with trolls now, bammy-hammy-mammy? That’s real low-life,”bro”.

By NO CHOP ZONE

July 24, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, you may be right about your prediction. The braves will be up for the Mets and Cox will have the team focused on beating us. Lets just see what happens before and after the series. That’s been the braves problem all year……We’ll see.

By Choppinmama

July 24, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

AKHillbilly: I thought the comments last night about Smoltz trying that kick save ‘cause he was so worried about facing Bonds again was so ridiculous also. Truly one of those “duh?” moments.

I watched 2 innings of the Giants broadcast before I found the ESPN broadcast, a very minor step up from those 2 boring Giants guys.

The ESPN guys distinctly said that Smoltz had told them that he was very sore after the last start and that he didn’t even work out the day before this start. According to DOB, Smoltz was just fine. How can these talking heads report on made-up stuff like this? Or are the Braves trying to dec everyone about John’s true health status?

One last observation, I thought it looked as though Smoltz hurt one of his legs trying to field that first bunt of the game. Looked like he slipped a little on the grass and just took a few awkward steps. I kept waiting for the injury to show up, but looks like I was wrong - thank goodness! Smoltz really earned his paycheck last night, but I still don’t think he’s pitching 100% healthy.

By Paladin

July 24, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

And when I say that I am leaving it is so some of my “friends” will know that when one of you low-life Lilliputians uses my name, or takes a swipe at me from behind his mammy’s skirts, that I am not here to respond. They may feel the “need” t do so.

When BobJ or Gil in Mechanicsville does it why, then, is it not a similar big deal?

Now, I’m leaving again. For what purpose is none of Fool’s or Bammy’s(I could just as easily say both fools)business.

By Salty

July 24, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

NCZ Lets just see what happens before and after the series. That’s been the braves problem all year……We’ll see.

That point is virtually inarguable, whether we Bravos fans like it or not!

By Lew

July 24, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Tampa Brave-You keep accusing me of not seeing the forest for the trees. That isn’t even applicable to this discussion. There is one point and one point only. Soriano was handed a lead in the eighth inning. It doesn’t matter one damn bit how many runs we scored. He was handed a lead and we lost because he couldn’t hold that lead. You can list all the could haves, should haves and would haves and he still blew a lead. I fail to see what difference it would make that the lead was 2-1 or 37-36. Soriano blew the lead he was given. Period. How many runs we score on a regular basis is another subject altogether. In this case the pen failed to hold a late inning lead and that’s all there is to it.

By Lew

July 24, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

NoBrainZone-Re: your 1:53 post. One term says it all. Bovine excrement. You damn well did predict all that crap. You constantly spout a bunch of garbage about how great the Mets are. You constantly talk trash on another teams’ blog. Now, when your team fails against all expectations, you claim I’M full of it? Little Boy, does your Mama know you talk like that. That kind of attack usually results from morons with indefensible positions. You can’t talk intelligently so you cuss people out. You’re nothing but a moronic little dweeb who doesn’t know his @$$ from a hole in the ground. Like I said before, go back to playing with yourself. On that subject you’re an expert.

By Rick Roberts

July 24, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Looks like the Braves are giving Julio a chance to show he can still play/hit at the MLB level. It really does look like he cannot. Enter Jeff Conine? I like the Tex and Garland rumors with Escobar becoming the SS and leaving Kelly at 2B. Looks like we will lose Salty, however. Bad part is, we don’t need Andrew. Can’t they dump him for something?

By little school girl

July 24, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this

I really like to read the blogs and see how my favorite baseball team, the Atlanta Braves, are doing. But my mommy won’t let me read it anymore because of all the grownups here that use offensive and profane language. Mommy said that grownups here fight with each other like little kids wearing dirty diapers. My Sunday school teacher told me that most people like that are going straight to Hell. I don’t want to go straight to Hell, so I can’t read the blogs anymore. That makes me sad.

By Dave

July 24, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

ok ive been following the trade rumors and these are the people i’ve heard linked with the braves: Ian Snell PIT Matt Morris SF Jon Garland CWS Jose Contreras CWS Joe Blanton OAK (i think) Bronson Arroyo CIN Steve Trachsel BAL Livan Hernandez ARI Akinori Otsuka Tex Ryan Klesko SF Mark Texiera TEX

Ok first off, Im not really interested in either of the White Sox Pitchers, especially contreras. There was a time (05, first half 06) where he was one of the best, now hes one of the worst. Bad Health? maybe, but too big of a risk. Garland would help us, but is he worth renteria, who has been solid since we’ve had him and is one of the reasons why the braves offense has been so good. hes a veteran leader, and he’s a clutch hitter who WILL make an impact WHEN the braves make the playoffs. Livan, NO. Trachsel, NO.(all i gotta say for those two.) Arroyo talks have come to a halt i believe, and i dont think Blanton is the impact starter the braves are looking for. Ian Snell has intrigued the braves for a while and if they make a deal with them they could try to get Damaso Marte too, who is on the market and the braves desperately need a Lefty Specialist. Matt Morris has been struggling lately, but he’d be a good veteran presence. i dont see the braves getting klesko unless they give up on thorman, trade Salty, and platoon klesko with Julio. Tex is too pricey, and Otsuka isnt healthy, although, they’d both be great additions. the only other two starting pitchers i could see the braves pursuing would be Aaron Harang or Noah Lowry. Lowry most likely isnt available, and i dont know about harang. He’s been great the last two years, He’s a horse who can Strike people out. The braves have a young enough team, a deep farm system, and enough versatility in their offense, they could afford to trade Salty, Yunel, or maybe even both. (i dont see them both being traded.) Let me know what you think DOB.

By Chase

July 25, 2007 2:28 AM | Link to this

Andruw: Got to be some kind of record for as many times as Andruw has left Chipper on base. Chipper’s got to be p**. Most of Andruw’s RBIs this season are worthless, in worthless situations, off of no-name pitchers. Sorry Bobby, sit him.

Woodward: Why is he even in the majors, let alone on the Braves??? There’s got to be a better prospect in the farms.

By Chase

July 25, 2007 2:46 AM | Link to this

Suggestion: Each time Chipper is on base (especially when there are two outs) pinch hit for Andruw. Argue with me all you want, it’s ridiculous how he has left runners high and dry. Swinging for the fence every time he’s up. I take that back—swinging for the upper deck. What’s that about? Doesn’t care about average? What’s that about? Won’t listen to anyone? What’s that about? Chipper (and others) left holding the bag?

By Dennis

July 25, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

In the Schuerholz/Cox era, the Braves have done an excellent job of drafting and developing talent and with a few exceptions, they have done well in the area of trades. However, why in the world would a team sign Woodward, Wilson, Redman and Franco? Look at the numbers or better yet, watch them play. Cox love of “veteran players” (Reardon for example) no matter the talent level has cost the Braves over the years and is doing so this year. I know money has been a big factor, but Wilson and Redman especially were worse than nothing. As to the trading deadline, I’d like to see the Braves stand pat rather than trading Escobar or Salty. Salty should be in the lineup every day, mostly at first but resting McCann occasionally. Escobar platoons at second and rests Renteria and Chipper occasionally. The latter two can’t play forever so we should keep Escobar and Andrus to someday fill those positions. Salty can be an everday first baseman which the Braves need plus he serves as insurance for McCann who has had his share of injuries. The starting pitching is looking better than at anytime this year and the relievers would be okay if Cox would quit running the same tired guys out there day after day while rested guys sit. When getting a guy up in the bullpen, more consideration should be given to who is more rested instead of whether it’s the seventh or eighth inning or whatever. I must say, I did not understand the McBride for Ledesma trade from the Braves standpoint. McBride has had control problems but so does Ledesma. At least McBride had pitches to get out lefties. Ledesma doesn’t seem to. Two other notes: Willie Harris will hit under .250 for the rest of the season if he continues to get every start against righties and Andruw (I’m a pull hitter) Jones will never be anything but an underachieving .230-.260 hitter if he plays til he’s 50. Good riddance! Finally, please do not trade players like Salty or Reyes for another short term fix which is all Teixeira (Scott Boreass) would be. I wonder if the Tigers think Alexander’s 12 or 15 wins were enough to offset the loss of Smoltz. I don’t. Signed: Braves fan since 1956.

By Chase

July 25, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

Dennis—Ditto on jsut about all said.

It’s a shame about Andruw because I believe he could be (and could have been) a 300+ hitter if he weren’t so stubborn about pulling/jacking it. He rarely goes with the pitch the other way, but when he has, he’s pretty successful. I’m convincwed he won’t change. He has not used his tools to the fullest potential. He’s a “spurt” player—and that is when they come up against some of the easier teams and pitching. Check it out over the years. Who can get into the guy’s head? He’s set in his ways. It’s frustrating to see his talent wasted.

By Chase

July 25, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

PS: Arithmetic lesson for Bobby—It’s a shame to waste one of the highest on-base percentage (Chipper) followed by one of the lowest (for a clean up hitter). I’d rather see Diaz or Johnson follow Chipper and Renteria—or Johnson batting third and Chipper clean up.

By MIke

July 29, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this

They gave away McBride. Now they want to trade away our future in Salty for a guy that will be here for 1 year. They didn’t trade Andruw last year when they could have before he got veto power over trades. A guy that want listen to anyone, thinks only of himself, not the team. I think the front office needs to be drug tested.