AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2007 > July > 31 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USNo question: Trade was good
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Of course the Tex-for-Salty trade was a good one for the Braves. Glad you asked.
And please, don’t give me the “smells like J.D. Drew all over again” line.
(And before we go any further, let me say that if the Braves get Octavio Dotel from Kansas City for Kyle Davies, it will have been arguably the best couple of days of trading in Atlanta Braves history, in terms of impacting a playoff race.)
(Wait, not done with that thought. How can they get Dotel for Davies? It’s only because Dayton Moore, KC GM and former Schuerholz assistant, had such a big hand in developing Davies that he probably believes Davies can still be pitcher they always believed he’d be. Otherwise, Dayton would take one of the better offers he’s received in the past month for Dotel. For the Braves’ sake, lot of denizens hoping Dayton keeps the nostalgiac view of Davies and pulls the trigger on this deal around noon today, or as soon as the Braves can officially offer him Davies, after the Rangers sign off on the Teixeira trade without demanding Davies be included instead of sore-shouldered Matt Harrison.)
(Whew _ that was one helluva run-on sentence and paragraph. Flexing my skills. Yeah, right. Now, back to original blog point about the Salty-for-Tex deal….)
For one very big thing, Mark “Tex” Teixeira is under the Braves’ control at least through 2008. That’s two runs at the playoffs, not one like they got from Drew.
What they do with those two runs at the playoffs will determine how this is viewed by many Monday-morning GMs in the future, but the fact is, the Braves have Teixeira to team with Chipper Jones and the rest of this relatively young lineup for two runs at the playoffs.
And having Teixeira makes those runs a whole lot more realistic and optimistic than not having him.
The second thing is, the Braves could certainly have used Adam Wainwright, the pitcher they gave up in the Drew deal, during these past few years of injuries to key pitchers. He might have made a real difference in Atlanta. (I’d say they could also have used Jason Marquis, but fact of the matter is, Marquis wasn’t going to prosper until he went somewhere else and got a fresh start and a new attitude, which he got in St. Louis … at least for a while.)
With Jarrod Saltalamacchia, the big stud they’re giving up in this trade for Teixeira, the Braves don’t have a spot for him in the near future, unless you saw enough of Salty at first base to conclude that he was the answer there. I did not. While I think he could certainly have been a serviceable and perhaps even good defensive first baseman, the brief stint he got there with the Braves could not have led any reasonable person to believe he was the next Keith Hernandez. He was out of position there.
Salty is a catcher. Probably going to be a very good one for a long time. But he had more value to the Braves as a catcher they could trade to fill the first-base need, than he did as a first baseman trying to fill that need himself during a playoff run. He wasn’t going to get any playing time at first base the rest of the season for a manager who didn’t have the confidence in him to keep running him out there in a division race after the All-Star break.
Besides, as much as some would have you believe this was just some arbitrary decision to yank Salty from the lineup and play old man Franco, fact is Salty hit .228 with two extra-base hits (doubles) and two RBIs in 15 games (15 games with multiple at-bats in each) during July, including 10-for-51 (.196) with 10 strikeouts and three walks in the last 13 of those games.
That’s when the Braves decided it was worth signing Franco, and that’s when Cox started playing Franco every day to see what he had left and to better gauge how desperate it was for the Braves to make a deal for a first baseman.
So they got the best player available on the trade market, and they got a competent lefty reliever, Ron Mahay, as part of the same trade. Two birds with four stones _ Salty, shortstop prospect Elvis Andrus, who’s 18, lefty prospect Matt Harrison and righty prospect Neifi Feliz, who’s 19.
Yes, they gave up a lot of young talent. But folks, for every Braves fan that will how that the Braves mortgaged the future and that Schuerholz and Bobby Cox only care about going out with a flourish in this season and/or next season, there are two Braves fans who would have howled if the Braves didn’t get Teixeira that the team isn’t a small-market team and shouldn’t behave like it by overvaluing its prospects and not trying to win now.
That’s just the way it is. You can’t please everyone, and the Braves don’t try to make decisions to please the most number of folks possible. They’re trying to win now. All teams do in this day and age, at least all teams who run successful operations. This isn’t a build-for-the-future business as much as it is a win-now, and win-in-the-future, too, business.
You have to make very hard decisions that are going to upset a lot of people. The Braves made a big one yesterday. It could blow up in their faces if Salty goes on to become the next Johnny Bench, or just if he’s better over the next 5-6 years than Brian McCann is. And if Elvis becomes The King (of defensive shortstops) for the next decade. Or if Feliz or Harrison becomes a front-line pitcher.
Personally, I was so struck by how remarkably timid Harrison seemed in spring training, that I found it hard to believe he’d become a true staff ace. Just don’t know many pitchers with that kind of personality who are true aces in the majors.
Now, the Feliz kid, from all accounts, has got a ton of potential. Wouldn’t surprise me at all if he becomes a very good major league pitcher. But he’s in low-A ball. He’s 19. He’s 3-4 years, minimum, from being a factor.
You can’t assume a kid is going to develop steadily over the next four years and be a major league contributor. You don’t just build a great farm system in order to continually fuel your major league team. You build a farm system so that you can also use some of those players to trade and bring in proven commodities, such as a Teixeira, to fill holes in a playoff race.
This division race is wide open. The Mets (13-13 in July) aren’t world-beaters, and the Braves lineup is now at least as good, if not better, than New York’s. Philly has won nine of 10, but the injuries are stacking up and I don’t think they’re pitching is good enough to hold off the Braves down the stretch.
The Braves might have a better shot at winning the division than they do the wild card, given how many solid teams there are out west and given how the Cubs and D-Backs look like they might win their divisions and relegate the Brewers, Dodgers and Padres to competing for wild-card berths.
But with the division so wide open, Schuerholz just made it possible for the Braves to make a legit run at reclaiming what was theirs for 14 consecutive completed seasons. It’s on the players and Cox now to bring it home.
Tex ain’t driving South, but you get the point here:
“DRIVE SOUTH” by John Hiatt
I didn’t say we wouldn’t hurt anymore
That’s how you learn, you just get burned
But we don’t have to feel like dirt anymore
Though love’s not earned, baby its our turn
We were always looking for true north
With our heads in the clouds, just a little off course
I left the motor running, now if you’re feeling down and out
Come on baby drive South, with the one you love
Come on baby drive South, with the one you love
I’m not talkin’ bout retreatin’ little girl
Gonna take our stand, in this Chevy van
Windows open on the rest of the world
Holdin’ hands, all the way to Dixieland
We’ve been tryin to turn our lives around
Since we were little kids, it’s been wearin’ us down
Don’t turn away now darlin’ let’s fire it up and wind it out
Come on baby drive South, with the one you love
Come on baby drive South, with the one you love
I heard your mama callin’, I think she was just stallin’
Don’t know who she was talkin to, baby me and you
We could go down with a smile on, don’t bother to pack your nylons
Just keep them pretty legs showin’, it gets hot down where were goin’
We were always looking for true north
With our heads in the clouds, just a little off course
I left the motor running, now if you’re feeling down and out’
Come on baby drive, come on baby drive South, come on baby drive South
Come on baby drive South, with the one you love
Come on baby drive South, with the one you love
Comments
By northbeach Scott
July 31, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this
Good perspective, DOB. Gotta believe that Liberty Media has been wise not to reveal the payroll budget so that JS can wheel and deal. I think that there may be something in the works to get Tex and Andruw signed before the end of the season. What a shot in the arm that would be for those players and the team. Any perspective at this point to believe that could be managed with Boras in mid-season, even though he typically does not allow his clients to do so?
By Chuck James is solid!! (Formerly Steve-O)
July 31, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this
Great trade! Now get Arroyo and Dotel ASAP SON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Joe Fan
July 31, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this
DOB,
I take it that with Salty gone that Pena will be called up? Who will be moved to make room for Pena?
By Carolina Gent
July 31, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this
DOB, Assuming Pena is called up to back up McCann, who’s going down? And, are there any others being mentioned in a possible deal for Arroyo? I like the Teixeira trade, and will like it better if we can keep him beyond ‘08.
By David-ATL14
July 31, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this
Good to hear from you DOB. Nice Spot yesterday on the Mike & Mad Dog Show.
Gave a good accounting of yourself and a nice look into the Front Office machinations. Well Done Indeed!
By Dru
July 31, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this
DOB, any news yet on whether Tex will get in for tonight’s game??
By Fred Secunda
July 31, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this
Will Tex be in the lineup tonight?
By Herschel Talker
July 31, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this
First!
DOB: you the man, as usual!
By Big Easy
July 31, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this
So, do we have an estimate as to when the Medical Review for the Teixeira trade will be done, so that JS can pursue other deals? And how much truth is there to the Arroyo rumor? Highly unlikely or is it at least conceivable that we could see him in a Braves uni soon?
By Jason
July 31, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this
The additions of Tex and hopefully Dotel could make a huge difference these next two months…but we still need another starting pitcher. Reyes has a ton of talent, but it doesn’t appear he’s ready for a spot in the rotation. DOB, do you have a follow up to your story yesterday that the Braves were pursuing Bronson Arroyo? He would be a great addition if the Braves could pull it off…
By Andy
July 31, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this
I know this is pretty much a done deal, but is there anyway that Texas gets scared about the health of Harrison and decides to axe the deal?
By geauxbraves2000
July 31, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this
I agree it was a great trade for the Braves. One question though, what is the hold up? Why is this medical review taking so long? While we wait, Dayton Moore may be blown away with a deal for Dotel and pull the trigger. Are JS’s hands completely tied waiting for this trade to be official?
Geaux Braves!!
By John
July 31, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this
I could not agree more.
By Mark
July 31, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this
Dave, How close are the Braves to acquiring Arroyo? I think another proven starter could go a long way in how far the Braves can go in October.
By Bryan from Kansas (Go KU )
July 31, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this
David….
Great stories to break the news….I missed you with Charley Steiner yesterday, I bet it was a great interview as always…
Have you heard anything more on the Bronson Arroyo deal.. like who we would be dealing?
By BravesFanInRockies
July 31, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this
Mornin’ DOB,
There are lots of conflicting reports about the Dotel situation, about half saying that there never was a deal or that the teams came close but won’t consummate it.
Any idea how soon before 4 p.m. your time we’ll know?
My reason for asking is, if this trade doesn’t happen, is there likely to be a backup plan not involving an August deal?
Thanks.
By pinkygonzales
July 31, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this
DOB, What are you hearing about Arroyo? Any fire there? Or is it just smoke? He would be a huge pick-up, if we could get him.
By Justin
July 31, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this
first?
By Jeff321
July 31, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this
I sure hope Yates & Paronto get the boot.
By Yo
July 31, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this
Great trade! I can only hope that Cox now wises up and puts Tex in the 4 hole where he belongs. This team is not going to contend with a .215 hitter batting cleanup. I know Cox has an allegiance to Andruw but it’s time to think about making the playoffs. Andruw has made his bed and now he must lie in it. I have already heard speculation that Cox wants to put Tex in the 5th spot in order for Andruw to get better pitches. One can only hope this does not happen. Moves like this have robbed us of multiple titles in the past and I hope this time around will not be the same.
By Arkansas Braves fan
July 31, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this
Dob, Mlb trade rumors is saying Kenny Williams is discussing Vasquez and Garland. Is their any chance the braves get in on eithier of the two. Also, is their any new news on Dotel or Arroyo. Thanks, Go Braves!
By Ron H
July 31, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this
I’d like to see Dotel added, but we still need a serviceable No. 3 or 4 starter…
I’m watching the game tonight to see TEX in action…
Gooo braves!
By NO CHOP ZONE
July 31, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this
All of us here at Mets nation have decided to give up on the season now that the braves have won the division by trading for Tex. We’ll just give up that 4.5 game lead and wait for next season.
By bryan
July 31, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this
So what are the roster moves now? Can we risk Thorman being sent down? Is he a trade candidate? I really like Julio off the bench and on the field … i would like to know what he has to say about Tex … i would like to know what Tex has to say about Tex.
By JB
July 31, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this
Any chance we get both Dotel and Arroyo ?
By JordanPTC
July 31, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this
AWESOME! hope we land Dotel and let DM and the Royals try and figure out Davies.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
July 31, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this
DOB, a couple of questions. 1) Will Tex be in the lineup tonight. I would assume he is already on his way to Atlanta since the deal is going to go through. Its just a matter of whom that fourth pitcher will be. 2) Are the Braves going after a starter and how aggressively are they going after one?
By GTA
July 31, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this
first?
By Rome Fan
July 31, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this
Not to be too picky, but Feliz is not in Low-A ball….he’s in Danville, which is Rookie League, below Low-A Rome and High-A Myrtle Beach. Supposedly has a lot of potential, though, so we’ll see….
By Tim
July 31, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this
DOB I totally agree. Braves have to win now. We just don’t know how much longer we are gonna have Chipper and Smoltz around and next year will probably be Cox’s final year. This is the time to do it.
By batcork
July 31, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this
OK, maybe not JD Drew 2.0, but squarely in between Drew (1 yr rental) and Sheff (2 yr rental). Both of whom helped the Braves to the playoffs but not a ring. I expect Tex will be chapter 3 of this same saga. Playoffs, yes. Ring, no. Have we been reduced to just hoping for the playoffs, and being satisfied with something short of a world title? Maybe the next few hours will tell.
By Ron H
July 31, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this
It’s a given Pena has to come up, and somebody has to go down…my guess is that THORMAN is gone.
If we get Dotel or Arroyo, and with the recent addition of Mahay, who else is gone?
Tough decisions to make.
Good luck and gooo braves!
By Jt
July 31, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this
Perfectly said, DOB. Schuerholz has been able to find a great balance between developing young players for the Braves roster and using them as trade bait for proven talent. That is why they have been in the post season hunt every year for the past 15 (had he been able to pull off a deal last year, they might would have competed better last year). Of the 4 players, only Salty is close to a sure thing. Texeria is a proven hitter and the chances of signing him to an extension before free agency (as per Tim Hudson) is better than signing AJ as a free agent. It is no secret that JS does not like to deal with Boras. But if Texeria runs his own life, he may be inclined to sign early so that he can play with a perennial contender. AND Mahay was critical to the deal. Sure, CJ Wilson would have been better, but it wasn’t going to happen. Mahay has been very effective this year and we all know how badly the Braves need an effective lefty reliever. As a long time Braves fan, I see NO downside to the trade. We are now in the race.
By AJ GREEN WEARS #1
July 31, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
DOB,
Great article.Where is TEX right now? Still in Texas or on his way to Atlanta? This deal needs signed off on so we can get him suited up!
By LT (double A blogger)
July 31, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
Couldn’t agree any more on all points. Even in Tex is gone after 08, I can’t state this is a bad trade because it makes sense this season and next season. Worry about 09 in 08 not 07.
I am not sold on letting Davies go. Will Dotel be brought in to replace Wicky or will he be setting up Wicky. If he is replacing Wicky, I’d be more apt to agree with that trade.
By OnDeckBatta10
July 31, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
DOB Great read.. any chance we make another big move today for a starter? Maybe Arroyo and I’m hearing Carlos Silva (Ick)
By Train Wreck Bystander
July 31, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
This Dotel trade worries me - he turns up on many lists of overrated players. Not that I mind giving up Davies - but I question whether Dotel is going to be that great an acquisition.
Looking forward to tonight’s game.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
July 31, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
DOB, how will the roster be restructured? I assume B. Pena will be called up to be the backup catcher. If Dotel is acquired, I would assume Ascaino goes back down. But, what do the Braves do with Thorman? If they trade for a starter and Thorman isn’t part of the deal, who goes? Will Cox only keep six relievers so he can have six bench players or will he stay with seven relievers? If Cox decides to go with six relievrs, who are the two other relievers that get the axe?
By Lew
July 31, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this
NoBrainZone-That may be the only smart thing you’ve ever done. Mets are going down.
By Ron H
July 31, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this
No Chop, we know the Mets aren’t laying down their bats. in fact, you guys just traded for a gold glover…
i’d say that the lineups are now about equal and it is going to come down to pitching…
i think it’s going to come down to you or us. the phillies are hot right now, but i suspect they’re going to fade when they go against somebody good.
this division will be won by the Braves or Mets, and it will come down to the final week, possibly even the final series of the season…
we’re fighting tooth and nail the whole way there…
goooo braves!!!
By Brian Dudley
July 31, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this
I agree. The Braves traded proven for potential. Granted, they did give up a lot of potential, but they got back a lot of proven. I remember that it seemed that they gave up a lot to get McGriff years back, but I don’t remember any of those guys turning out to be world beaters. I think Keith Mitchell and Melvin Nieves were part of that trade, but I can’t remember. The fact that I can’t remember probably says something. I would have loved to have traded some “magic” beans to Texas for Teixeira and Mahay, but GMs seem to be funny about wanting value for value. Anyway, if nothing else the trade seems to signal that the Braves will be once again making bold moves to improve the team, which they seem to have shied away from in recent years. Thankfully, they are under new management.
By Mr. David
July 31, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this
DOB I’m stoked about the trade and will be there tailgating Sat. Any suggestions for a Tex related ipod playlist? BTW I’ve got 1000 cd’s to choose from lol!
By NCBravesFan
July 31, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this
I can’t believe people think that the Braves should not have taken this chance by trading for Tex. Our odds are significantly improved to make the playoffs with this shot in the arm in the offense.
The key down the stretch will be Smoltz’s shoulder. If it holds up, we have three good starters, which is all you really need in a playoff scenario.
A bullpen arm or two today (Dotel) would help slam the door at the end of the games.
If the above plays out, ATL has to be a favorite to reach the Series this year in a pathetic NL.
If Salty and Franco would have platooned at first, we’d likely have finished 3rd or 4th in the division. You don’t stick a kid at an unfamiliar position in a pennant race and ask him to perform.
By Another Arkansas Braves Fan
July 31, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this
Will Tex be in the lineup tonight??? Thanks DOB!
By Luther
July 31, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this
DOB- Enjoyed listening to you on 680 this morning. Ecspecially your answer to Perry’s idiotic assesment that “if the Braves don’t win the World Series this is a bad move.” I love how he backed off his position, “thats what the fans will say.” Typical Mets fan, go home and put on your Yankees hat now.
By KC
July 31, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this
Ron H: It’s not certain that Tex will be in the lineup tonight since the deal still isn’t official.
By ChampDawg
July 31, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this
Making the playoffs and then doing well once you’re in depends more on pitching than hitting. Until the Braves do something about the pitching, Tex ain’t the answer. Smoltz.. iffy due to the shoulder, Huddy.. good most of the time, James-Reyes, etc. I wouldn’t give a plug nickel for.
By knowitall
July 31, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this
RIJIB, I believe Ascaino will have to be sent down to make room for Mahay.
By Yars
July 31, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this
The offense looks great now, especially if Andruw can up his average, & stop hitting into double plays. The starting rotation still needs to be tweaked. After Smoltz & Hudson, it looks bad. Jo Jo isn’t ready for the show. He should still be in Richmond. Carlyle is a journey man pitcher. James is inconsistent & throws nothing but junk. We can talk playoffs all we want, but until the starting rotation is addressed, what’s the point? This Atlanta team won’t make the playoffs if a decent starting pitcher isn’t added soon.
By Big Kev
July 31, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this
Cox will carry seven relievers. Past history dictates bobby will overload the pen instead of more bench guys.
Pena is definitely coming back up and gives another good pinch hitter. I would have personally rather kept him up in spring training than woodward.
I think that Thorman has to be part of any deal to get Arroyo, who I think would be an outstanding pick up. And my god is davies for Dotel a sick JS dream or what. If this all goes through, JS has proven he is the greatest GM of all time.
By Roll Tide
July 31, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this
ESPN Buster Olney reporting that the Dodgers have traded Wilson Betemit to the Yankees for Scott Proctor. Olney believe Betemit could be a starter for the Yanks next year if Arod leaves.
By Wayne in Utah
July 31, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this
RJITB I suspect you will have to wait until around game time, or at least until any/all deals are finalized. There are so many ways this thing can go. Who knows what will happen.
I would think that Thorman will be dealt, even if only for a minor league prospect, if he is not included in some other deal for a starter. I think that a guy like JS has a few GM’s he is tighter with, and they do that scratch each others backs sort of thing when in a tight spot.
Just a guess.
By BG
July 31, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this
Consider the stats on 3 relief pitchers:
A. 24 games, 23 IP, 2-1 record, 3.91 ERA, 11 saves in 14 opportunities, 29 K, 11 BB, WHIP = 1.52, Opponents’ BA. = .264, Opp’s Slg Pct. = .428, GO/AO = 1.28
B. 40 games, 40 IP, 3-1, 3.57 ERA, not a closer, 14 K, 19 BB, WHIP = 1.64, Opp’s BA = .307, Opp’s Slg. Pct. = .386, GO/AO = 1.36
C. 50 games, 44 IP, 2-3, 5.28 ERA, not a closer, 44 K, 24 BB, WHIP = 1.49, Opp’s BA = .247, Opp’s Slg. Pct. = .347, GO/AO = 0.84
A and B seem better than C but C has some strong points — good K’s per IP, low BA & SLG against.
A is Dotel, B is Paronto, and C is Yates. To get Dotel, the Braves would need to clear a spot. The likely candidates are Paronto and Yates. Other than in May when he came back from the DL, Paronto has pitched very well. So, that means Yates would need to be released (or sent to the DL).
If Yates could recapture his pre-July form, I don’t think Dotel is much of an upgrade. This might be a big “if”. Of course, if Dotel could pitch like he did in 2002 & 2003, then it would be great to get him.
Overall, I’m not convinced that getting Dotel is a top priority. Of course, one of the early rumors was Thorman for Dotel….now that would be a coup for the Braves. Please Dayton…you owe us one after the Braves giving your starting SS for the year. (Tony Pena has played fairly well for KC.)
By CMC
July 31, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Great Post today. In the past two weeks, I have become more convinced that such a move was needed for this team, future be damned. The cupboard is still plentiful with future prospects. Two playoff runs with Tex is a nice thought.
Dealing future talent is a tough call. Knowing JS the way you do, is it possible that he considers a young talent “untouchable” at some point in time? Or does a seasoned GM consider “anyone for sale” with the right offer?
I would be happy to see further deals made as long as we retain the services of Escobar, Brandon Jones and one of Hansen/Reyes. Escobar is legit and can play one of three infield positions down the road. Jones is a 5-tool outfielder that is destined to replace Andruw in the lineup next year or the year thereafter. It would be great to hold onto a pitching prospect or two once we see Smoltz and Hudson exit.
With this being said, do you consider any of the Braves young guys “untouchable” at this point?
Finally, the Hiatt tune “Down South” was re-released by a female country singer back in the 1990’s. Care to guess the name?
By don
July 31, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this
O’Brien is the ultimate homer. The giddiness is getting out of hand.
Of course, he will have plenty of time to come to his senses when the season ends abruptly and the playoffs begin without the Braves.
You people would have been great in 1929 when the stock market crashed.
By kdbanks
July 31, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this
I, for one, hope the Davies deal goes through and that he can reclaim himself in K.C., much like Jason Marquis did in St. Louis.
By Yars
July 31, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this
Man, Kyle Davies was given every opportunity to prove he is a solid MLB starting pitcher. He failed for Atlanta. We lost patience with him. Maybe a new environment will be good for him. It worked for Marquis. Watching Davies pitch gave me a headache. That one game I believe against the Dodgers where he couldn’t hold a 6 run lead did it for me.
By Braves Fan 79
July 31, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this
I think Davies has the potential to be a REALLY good pitcher…but hes probably still a year or 2 away and i think hes worth trading if we can get Dotel.
Im glad we hung onto Escobar…man what our record would be if we had him out of spring training instead of woodcrap or orr. da Braves are BACK!! As long as Smoltz is healthy enough to give us a solid 6 or 7 innings in the playoffs i look for this team to go far!
By Don
July 31, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this
I hate to see the Braves lose Salty and Andrus but they were both at positions of strength and there’s a gaping hole at first, so I think this is a trade the Braves had to make. Might as well try to do something while Smoltz and Chipper are still around and productive and while the National League stinks. If Liberty doesn’t increase the budget, the Braves aren’t likely to be regular contenders long-term anyway.
However, I’m not going to throw too many bouquets in the direction of Schuerholz after he inexplicably threw away $5+ million in the offseason on 4 stiffs - Redman, Wilson, Woodward, and an injured Sturtze (who the Braves must think won’t pitch this year given the pursuit of Dotel). Has any GM in the history of baseball ever had 4 worse free agent signings in one offseason?
Hopefully with this trade we’ve finally seen the last of Chris Woodward. Thank God we’ve at least seen the last of him starting at first base.
By BamaBrave
July 31, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this
Roger all that, DOB! These next two months - hopefully these next three months - will be as exciting as any for Braves fans in the last 16 years. How refreshing to actually be involved in these developments, instead of watching from the sidelines…
By dadgum
July 31, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this
All the players in this trade are just bit players except of course for Tex and Salty. That is all this trade is really about anyway. You look at the short term power impact to a team and the Braves just steamrolled the Rangers. Nothing against Salty however.
The Braves just simply won the short term value. The pitchers acquired trust me amount to nothing in the short term. Can’t see any impact to this team. As I said prior I really have a hard time putting any faith in relief pitchers. They look great one outing then bad the next. i.e. what has happened to the Soriano, Wickman, Gonsalez triumvirate. Things happen. Glad to get Mahay but not hanging any hopes on him. Ditto Dotel if we get him. He might be better than Davies in the stats but again not getting excited one bit. The Braves are doing what they have to do to win now and that is the right move. Agreed with DOB that top prospects are sometimes groomed to be dealt if it will acquire the veteran missing link. The Braves have been weak at 1st for a long time (including LaRouche). I can’t help but see similarities to the McGriff trade back in I think ‘93 but let’s hope without the fire.
Again with the exception of Tex And Salty nobody will remember any of the others traded after ‘08. The real real value of this trade long term will be if the BRaves can sign Tex to a multi year deal after this year. Wrap him up where he wants to play the most. Say through 2011 at 13-14 mil per. Then say goodby to Andruw. If they can sign Tex then they will have won both the short and long term value of this trade at least prior to the on field performance which of course is the future analysis of all trades. Go get ‘em Tex. Please.
By Big Kev
July 31, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this
if proctor is headed to LA, then that signals to me that Dotel is ATL bound, since LA was the other in the Dotel race.
By TommyP
July 31, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this
Great time of year to be a baseball fan. No other sport had a trade deadline like baseball. Beautiful.
It appears when Bobby tires of a player, he’s generally gone. Davies appears to be that guy so there’s no doubt they’ll do the Davies for Dotel deal.
Davies seems pretty solid from the windup but is horrible from the stretch.
I think the Braves are giving up a little more than Teixeira is worth but I believe that’s because Schuerholz/Cox are at the end of a long, great run together. They won’t be around when these prospects are reaching the majors (aside from Salty).
I’m very glad that we aren’t dealing Yunel or Renteria. We need both for this run.
Yunel can be our super-utility guy that is so needed in a Braves infield. Chipper is going to be out some (that’s a given) so you HAVE to have someone at 3rd but Escobar can also spell Renteria at short and Kelly at 2B.
I’d love to see Andruw in the 6th hole.
By NO CHOP ZONE
July 31, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this
I’ll remember those words LEW-SER. You’ve predicted failure for the Mets in the past and still they lead the division……Pssst Pedro is coming.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this
Why does all of the MEDIA Outlets and (some)FANS just ASSUME the BRAVES can’t RE-SIGN….BOTH ANDRUW and TEX?
The FACT is that we don’t know!
I would argue that this move could signal that LIBERTY MEDIA may have told JS that the PAYROLL will be INCREASING
Also don’t forget…After next year, HAMPTON’S big contract will be gone (he’s making Andruw’s money)
So….Knowing that that contract is going to be gone and so will WICKMAN’S 6 mil,…THAT IS 20 Million FREED UP!
* SO…It would only take a small Payroll Increase to keep BOTH Andruw and Tex (maybe 7-10 million more)*
And as DOB has reported, ANDRUW really wants to stay….
I would not be surprised to see us KEEP BOTH ANDRUW and TEX
By Arkansas Hillbilly
July 31, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this
Page hit…cha-ching Page hit…cha-ching Page hit…cha-ching Page hit…cha-ching Page hit…cha-ching Page hit…cha-ching. I don’t know if all this buzz is Braves Fans or the sound of the AJC’s servers on the brink of a chaotic explosion. What a great time to be a Braves Fan!! I watched “the hit and the slide” at Fulton County Stadium on YouTube over and over for thirty minutes lastnight. Makes the hair stand up on the back of my neck every time.
“They may have to hospitalize Sid Bream….”—Skip
By john
July 31, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this
Was there any cash considerations in the trade. If not, makes me wonder how much Liberty is raising the payroll, and how much Hampton’s insurance covered his contract.
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB welcome back some questions for you 1)Will Tex be in the lineup tonight? 2)When will the trade be finalized? 3)What are the chances that we get Dotel or a starter?
By Chuck James is solid!! (Formerly Steve-O)
July 31, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this
Yars,
You are clearly unaware that Chuck James is solid!!!!!!
By Lew
July 31, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this
Y’all-One out of five posts so far on this blog are asking DOB either if A.Texiera will be in the lineup tonight, or B. Who will be moved when the deals are done. Uh, Don’t you think maybe that you’ll get the answers when A. DOB actually has the answer to give you and B. When the deals that this information would predicated on were done deals? Give the guy a break. When was the last time the Braves announced roster moves until the last minute? He doesn’t know either. In the past two days he has flown on a red eye flight from the Arizona, done at the very least four interviews for radio and has been on the phones for the better part of a week tryng to get any clue whatsoever. I’m certain he doesn’t need to be prompted by 1/5 of all the posters. You’ll learn what he knows when he knows it-Just like always.
By SSI Fan
July 31, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this
DOB
Off topic, but have the Braves signed their first draft pick? If not, what is the deadline for signing him?
By Buck Naked
July 31, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this
Hey… not to nit-pick, but just who was the Player To Be Named Later obtained for Ryan Langerhans? Did I miss something? Does Homeboy keep calling, and the Beane says, “Later..” Was there actually a player whose name is “Later”? Did he start out with another name, and they named him “Later”? Maybe that’s all they had to do, was name a player “Later” without actually trading him. (When he leaves the park, his teammates say, “See ya Later!”) I get really confused with all the rules. My head hurts.
By Ron Roberts
July 31, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this
Joe Fan… good question about Pena. Gotta have that backup catcher in the clubhouse tonight. Jeff321… gotta disagree with ya, man. Yates and Paronto, when healthy and well-rested, are damn-good and young bullpen arms. Getting Mahay, and hopefully Dotel, too, will only make those guys better. How scary should that be for the Philthies and Mutts?
I, too, wonder what Teixeira’s travel status is, with this “medical review” still holding everybody up.
And, No Chop Zone, I already know how we make up at least three of those games we’re behind you in. Do you?
We played 9 games the first half of the season against your Mutts, and went 6-3. We have 9 games remaining… so say we go, oh, I don’t know, 6-3 in those games as well, with a much improved Braves’ squad versus your Castillo-enhanced (chuckles) team.
There. Three games made up. Start sweating buddy.
By William
July 31, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this
Dave,
That was a great post. Tons of REAL info and not a bunch of baseball BS.
But slow down, take a nap and stay off the caffeine and coffee. You are wired baby.
Thanks!
By BigD
July 31, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this
Will Tex be in the line-up tonight?
By Austin
July 31, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this
I beleive the Braves should go after Farnsworth. Yes, Farnsworth. Al though his ERA is 4.57 this year, he was 10/10 in save oppurtunities with a 1.98 ERA with the Brvaes. Now that Proctor was traded to LAD, I doubt Farnsworth will be moved, but I beleive he could have been easily aqquired.
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this
For the love of all that is sacred, when is this deal going to be finalized?
Is JS in negotiations with other teams regarding other trades? Is the fact that the Rangers’ deal not finalized hamstringing JS?
Regards,
Jason
By Shaun
July 31, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this
DOB,
I think one important fact that gets overlooked by those who don’t like the trade is the offensive side of Salty playing first base.
If Salty stayed he would have had to become the first baseman eventually. Even if he became an adequate or good defensive first basemen his value would have gone down offensively because it’s much easier to find first basemen who can hit than catchers who can hit.
The AVERAGE major league first baseman has hit .275/.356/.458 this season. A player does that as a catcher and he’s one of the most valuable players in the game.
By Arkansas Hillbilly
July 31, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this
Wilson Betemit for Scott Proctor. How many times did we hear that proposal last summer when the Braves were looking for relief help?
By Austin
July 31, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
Thank you Lew, If DOB had the answers he would have told u sby now!!!
By Joe Schmoe
July 31, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
SSI Fan…
Neither Heyward or Fields(one of the second rounders and a Boras client) have signed. The deadline is August 15 and I think it’s a pretty safe bet that Heyward will sign around then…
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
For the record, my questions weren’t directed at DOB…sort of venting my anxiety out loud…
Regards,
Jason
By DAP
July 31, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this
hopefully tex is on his way or in atlanta already so that he can play tonight whenever the trade goes through. hurry up, texas!!!
i think the linup should look like this tonight.
(1) kelly johnson 2b (2) Edgar SS (3) Chipper 3b (4) Tex 1b (5) andruw CF (6) Mccann C (7) Frenchy RF (8) harriis LF
dang that a good lineup! andruw has been playing well enough to bat cleanup i think, but having two power switch hitters back to back will be great in late situations. and has been hitting well and should hit 5th, and Mccann should always seperate frenchy and Andruw in my opinion.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this
The METS have other issues right now, they better worry about BELTRAN and not whatever PEDRO is doing
For anyone who hasn’t seen this….
From the METS’ website:
NEW YORK — *For Carlos Beltran, the disabled list may have just bridged the gap from possibility to probability. An MRI taken Sunday morning on Beltran’s strained left oblique revealed small amounts of fluid, signaling an abdominal tear.
The Mets will continue to monitor Beltran’s situation before their next game on Tuesday, at which point they could place their center fielder on the DL.
“I feel sore, I feel tight, I can’t swing, I can’t run,” Beltran said. “That’s the way I feel, so I’m not able to play.”*
Psst…Hey MUTS…we’re sprinting behind you!!!!!!!!
By Marty
July 31, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this
It’s amazing to me that after winning the division ONCE — immediately following fifteen straight years of failure — Mets fans are so sure that they’ve got it all figured out. Go on and stay cocky…it may be this year, and it may not be ‘til next year, but you’re not going to stay on top for long.
By David-ATL14
July 31, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this
Pena will not be in the clubhouse tonight, he is currently catching for the Richmond Braves, in the lovely berg of Toledo Ohio.
Probably have Corky Miller on standby in an ATL hotel.
By Lew
July 31, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this
NoBrainZone-Yeah right. Put all your eggs in the basket carried by an aging pitcher, a mere shadow of his former great self before the injuries, who just had rotator cuff surgery (not to mention chronic toe problems). Do you realize how pitiful that is? No, I guess not. You don’t have the brainpower to analyze anything that finely. Have they even let him start pitching any more than once every ten days yet? Keep convincing yourself that over the hill Pedro is your saviour and that the 4 1/2 game lead is insurmountable. Your delusional outlook needs all the help it can get, Mosquito Boy. Hey, I’ve got to give Omar His props, though. Picking up Castillo to replace Valentin was a good move-They may actually have upgraded. Won’t offset old pee in his pants over a knee buckling curve Beltran’s loss though, will it? Oh yeah, I forgot-I should be worried. Moises Alou is back-For just how long until he breaks down yet again? Dream On Little NoBrainZone, there will be crying in your elementary school by the end of August. The Mets are going down. You should be glad, though. All those injuries to the Phillies may just save the Mets from that third place finish I predicted. Oh, BTW, NO BrainZone-just where are all those deals the Mets were going to pull off with all of that money they supposedly have? Been wondering about that for some time now.
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this
This is from Mark Bowman over at MLB.com:
“Once the Mark Teixeira deal is finalized, GM John Schuerholz will turn his focus toward improving his pitching staff. If he’s willing to part with Kyle Davies, there’s a chance he could land Royals closer Octavio Dotel. With one NL scout saying the Braves are still in discussions with the White Sox, there’s a chance Schuerholz could land Jon Garland or Javier Vazquez. Although Bronson Arroyo is on the radar, the Braves may not have the necessary pieces to add him to their rotation. — Mark Bowman”
Regards,
Jason
By Austin
July 31, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this
My Lineup
Against RHP 1.KJ 2.Edgar 3.Chipper 4.Tex 5.Andruw 6.McCann 7.Frenchy 8.Willie
Against LHP 1.Escobar 2.Edgar 3.Chipper 4.Tex 5. Andruw 6.Frenchy 7.Diaz 8.McCann
By Mike in 'fretta
July 31, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this
A lot of people seem worried that all this trading will deplete our minor leagues of talent and will leave the cupboard bare…but does that really matter?
The Braves are a young team and have a history of drafting well. They will replenish the minors because they are great at recognizing young talent.
Also, I have to believe that if they don’t trade Escobar by the deadline (and I hope they don’t) then they are grooming him to take over SS next year. I don’t think it is a stretch to say that this is Edgar’s last season with the Braves. The Braves will probably trade him because of his salary and because with Escobar they have a very talented and cheap replacement.
The only area I have concern for the future of the Braves is in Starting Pitching. It has been way too long since we have developed a dependable top of the rotation starter.
By Rick
July 31, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this
Dave,
Bringing Fred McGrif had a bigger impact than these trades. The Braves went on fire after the trade. (So did the stadium)
I rather have Arroyo than Dotel.
By NCBravesFan
July 31, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this
Beltran? I thought Beltran was still standing at home plate waiting for the Adam Wainwright curve. ;-)
By Salty
July 31, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Lew…you beat me to it. I hate reading through all the ‘bloga vu’….over and over, ad nauseum! The Braves/MIB blog wouldn’t even exist if DO’B didn’t have the same passion as we fans, so…he is as vitally interested in the same questions we all have, wants the answers ASAP, and will let us know just as quickly.
Chase…you’re rubbing off on me…and I skipped the caffeine altogether! :-)
By Arkansas Hillbilly
July 31, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this
DOB,
After all these page hits, your next blog lyrics should be Pink Floyd—Money.
“I’m alright, Jack. Keep your hands off of my stack.”
By RIP SaltyWoody
July 31, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this
Alas, my name just doesn’t make sense anymore, assuming the trade goes through. But, heck, I’ll trade my alias for that big, switch-hitting, smooth-fielding corner infielder any day.
Nice blog, DOB. Totally agree. The Braves just more or less solidified a chance to make a run at the playoffs for the next two years. And with all the ties between Tex and Georgia Tech/Atlanta, and with a lot of money freeing up next year because of Andruw/Wickman/Etc. coming off the books, I sure hope we can resign Texeira.
QUESTION FOR THE DENIZENS A lot of you have been saying that you still think the team doesn’t make the playoffs without adding a starter. Does Dotel count almost as much?
The reason I ask is this: if you add Dotel to the bullpen mix, it is instantly upgraded to a VERY strong ‘pen, particularly considering the addition of Mahay. That means that you have Soriano, Yates, Moylan, and Dotel who are capable of pitching in the 7th and 8th and coming in in the 9th if there is a particularly tought situation. As we’ve all decided, Wickman’s great coming in with a clean slate but terrible coming in to a pressure situation. Now you have four guys all capable of coming in and being downright nasty, getting us out of jams. Also, we finally have a guy that can get lefties out consistently (at least hopefully), which we haven’t had in quite some time since Gonzo went down.
As I see it, this makes up for adding a 3/4/5 starter.
How so?
Our 3/4/5 guys have proven they can go 5 or 6 strong innings. Jo Jo can throw 5 strong no problem, we all know Chuckie can do that, and Carlyle’s been proving that he can even go further than that at times. They start to get into trouble when they are asked to go longer than that…mostly to try to save wear and tear on the bullpen.
But if you now have a bullpen that looks like this: Soriano(1 nasty inning, maybe 2 solid), Moylan (1 or 2 innings), Oscar (as many as you need), Yates (1 maybe 2), Dotel (1 strong inning), Paronto (1 maybe 2), Wickman (1, and only if it’s his to begin), Mahay (1 inning…and any outs needed against lefties), all of a suddent that really rounds things into shape.
My guess is the reason Yates/Wiki/Soriano have been hittable lately is that they’ve been taxed recently. It was inevitable while Jo Jo finds adjusts to the majors and Buddy/Chuckie work to find their grooves.
By bringing in Dotel, you take a TON of pressure off the big late inning guys…Soriano gets more rest, Yates doesn’t have as big shoes to fill, we have an alternative to Wickman, Moylan can pitch early in the game if need be.
In turn, this also takes the weight off the 3/4/5 starters’ backs because they know that going 5 strong will be much more acceptable now than it was a week ago. It takes the weight off of Huddie and Smoltz because they don’t feel the need to try to pitch a complete game every time out. It takes the weight off Bobby’s mind because he knows he has 5 or 6 VERY competent relievers to turn to if need be.
As I see it, our rotation is just fine if we add Dotel to the mix…and our bullpen returns to being lights out.
This is also not to mention the fact that, and sorry if I’m beating a dead Hoss here (pun intended), WE JUST ADDED BIG TEX
That’s got to mean a few more runs a game here and there, further relieving pressure on the startes AND the pen. It also means Chipper gets more pitches to hit in front of TEX, a lot of the pressure on Andruw to perform is relieved, and means that 1-8, there is not an easy out in our entire lineup.
Furthermore, it means we can now bring Julio off the bench…a situation he was meant to be in, not starting every game. It means, on any given day, we have two of these four guys available to pinch hit, too: Kelly/Willie/Diaz/Escobar.
THAT, my friends, is a PLAYOFF CONTENDER
Would love to hear what everyone thinks. But, I think Tex could definitely get us over the hump if everything else stays as is (Smoltz/Chipper stay healthy, everyone else continues to perform). And I think adding someone like Dotel puts us in the playoffs for sure.
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this
On ESPN First Take they said Dotel is coming to Atlanta, once the Tex trade is done, for more than likely Kyle Davies
By KC
July 31, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this
DAP: I’ll disagree with you only slightly. I think Andruw should be hitting 7th. And against a righty (and ONLY against a righty), I’d bat Harris leadoff.
1-Harris (L)
2-Renteria (R)
3-Chipper (S)
4-Tex (S)
5-Francoeur (R)
6-McCann (L)
7-Andruw (R)
8-Johnson (L)
Against a lefty, I’d bat Escobar leadoff… so in short, I like what BC’s doing there. KJ doesn’t deserve to hit 8th, but in the words of Clint Eastwood in “Unforgiven”… Deserve’s got nothin’ to do with it.
By DAP
July 31, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this
wow i just watched sid’s slide a couple of times on you tube, and i have goosbumps all over. that was an amazing year.
ya’ll go to youtube and search for sid bream and youll see it. does any body else thing that bream resmbles francour a little when they show him close up?
By Roll Tide
July 31, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this
Has anyone seen the stats for Tanyon Sturtze this year? From milb.com he is 0-5 with an ERA of 11.05 and hitters are batting .375 against him. I do not want to see him in the bullpen anytime soon.
By DAP
July 31, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this
this has been the longest off-day ever! i cant wait till tonight!
By Lew
July 31, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this
SSI Fan-If I’m not mistaken, their first round pick was signed right after the draft-on the same day.
By Salty
July 31, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this
In expectations of a trade being finalized, would the players involved already have travelled to their new cities, just in case?
By northbeach Scott
July 31, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this
SSI I believe the deadline for signing 2007 amateur draft picks is 8/15/07 and that the Braves have not signed their top pick out of Henry Cty High.
Relax everyone, just because we do not know what is going on does not mean that JS is not moving forward. I imagine Tex is already in Atlanta selecting his uniform number and meeting his teammates.
See you at the Ted!
By BravesFanInRockies
July 31, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this
Hillbilly,
RE: Proctor/Wilson
Right on, man. The main diff this year is that Torre has had another full season to overuse Proctor, thus hastening the end of his career.
By SSI Fan
July 31, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this
Thanks Joe Schmoe. I hadn’t seen any news about his signing and knew the deadline was in August. I hate having Scott Boras’s clients on the Braves.
By Jay
July 31, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this
The Braves continue to wait on the Mark Teixeira deal to be formalized before finalizing their trade for Octavio Dotel. Sources told Yahoo! Sports’ Tim Brown that neither deal had any chance of falling through. The Braves are trading Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Elvis Andrus, Neftali Feliz and a second pitcher for Teixeira and Ron Mahay, plus Kyle Davies to Kansas City for Dotel. Source: Yahoo! Sports
By RIP SaltyWoody
July 31, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this
According to DOB’s story here: http://www.ajc.com/braves/content/sports/braves/stories/2007/07/30/trade_0730.html the Braves included Neftali Feliz:
“The second pitcher will be right-hander Neftali Feliz, 19, a hard-throwing Dominican rated the Braves’ No. 18 prospect by Baseball America. He has 70 strikeouts in 5 1/3 innings in two seasons at Rookie and Class-A levels.”
70 Strikeouts in 5 1/3 innings?!?!?! Crap. Maybe we shouldn’t have traded this guy. That’s over 14 strikeouts per inning. That’s ove 126 strikeouts per game. Sheesh. Not even Santana’s doing that.
Ehhh…even still, I’d rather have Tex. His name’s cooler.
By Josh
July 31, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the new blog DOB:
My only issue with shopping Davies for Dotel is that we not exactly abundant in starting pitching right now. Jo Jo Reyes hasn’t shown he can pitch at the major league level yet. You have to figure, that if he can’t find it in the next two starts here that he should be sent down for more work. No need to kill his confidence yet…
So if that happens and Davies is trading, do the Braves call up Lance Cormier? He looked good in spring training and at times in Richmond, but he has yet to actually translate that into a Major League game. Beyond those two…who else do we have to call? If we take care of the bullpen, does Blaine Boyer become 5th starter material? Or will Villareal get a chance to fill the void.
You know…after typing all that I guess I just realized that we have 4 options to throw into the #5 hole who can pitch at least as well as Davies has shown us this year.
I don’t want to give up on Davies yet. He’s still only 23 and he obviously has the arm to be dominant. I’d much rather go after starting pitching than Dotel just because we have two setup style guys (Asciano and Devine) who could see more big league time this year. But, if we can’t find a #3 starter in the next 3 hours, then Dotel makes the most sense.
Also, anyone have any idea on roster changes? Asciano is the obvious choice to be sent down from the pen, but I could almost see Yates go if he has options. He admitted that he’s lost his confidence. Paronto has actually been pitching well as of late.
As for bench moves, Julio has to stay (can he back up 3rd?), but the Braves have to make a move to bring up Pena. Thorman or Woodward probably. I hope its Woodward, because Thorman still has some upside. Diaz, Willy, Kelly, and Escobar are obviously staying put.
Oh…and I can’t wait to see Texeira play.
By Buzilla Baby Blues
July 31, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this
Does Chipper still have the clap from that Hooters girl in Alpharetta?
By KC
July 31, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this
3 hours to go… are medical records still standing in the way of anything?
Gosh, I hope not.
By Voice of Reason
July 31, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this
Mike in ‘fretta: It has been way too long since we have developed a dependable top of the rotation starter.
It’s been that way for alot of teams… How many dependable top of the rotation starters actually exist? Santana (8 losses)? Penny(health)? Peavey(pretty close)? Sabathia(probably)? Willis(please, spare me… 7-10, 4.95 ERA).
A truly dependable top of the rotation ace is a rare breed these days. Chicks dig the long ball, right?
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
July 31, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this
DAP
Am I misunderstanding you or are you saying AJ should stay in the 4th hole? There is no way he should hit in the clean-up spot at this time.
By Patrick
July 31, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this
The Braves continue to wait on the Mark Teixeira deal to be formalized before finalizing their trade for Octavio Dotel. Sources told Yahoo! Sports’ Tim Brown that neither deal had any chance of falling through. The Braves are trading Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Elvis Andrus, Neftali Feliz and a second pitcher for Teixeira and Ron Mahay, plus Kyle Davies to Kansas City for Dotel. Source: Yahoo! Sports
This is probably why the Dodgers pulled the trigger for Proctor. I bet KC said do deal for Dotel
By DrHoo
July 31, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this
Heh, Joe Morgan just said on an ESPN chat that even with Texeira the Mets have a much better lineup than the Braves. Typical from him.
By DAP
July 31, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this
saltywoody i agree with you, and i posted similar sentiments on the last blog.
i feel like where weve have been letting games get away is in the bullpen, and why? because theyre overused. bring in a reliable bullpen arm, and you take the pressure off, and have more choices. this allows the guys in the bullpen to get multiple days off in a row at times, because they are backing each other up.
a starter does the same thing, because if he does what he is supposed to, he goes at least 7 strong innings and you only need two innings from the bullpen.
have both a starter and a bullpen arm would be amazing.
now, one more thing. the pitching staff has been mismanaged. sorry bobby, you da man, but youve been messing up. bobby needs to take adavantage of offensive outbursts to rest his bullpen so they are fresh when its close. he needs to leave the starters in when they are dealing, as long as they can still get outs, and they have a little cushion in the lead, they needs to pitch. they automatically get 4 days off, so let them work as long as they can. you have to be careful of over use of starters AND relievers. if bobby starts being smart about using the bullpen, itll help big time.
By humbug
July 31, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this
After sleeping on it I have changed my mind about the trade. It was a good one for the Braves. Salty has a high chance of being a superstar but the Braves are not in a position to make it happen here. JS is giving him that chance. He was helped, not dumped. Prospects have potential but not proven major league potential. Teixeira has that. Proven is better than possible. Good thinking on JS part. If he can bring us a good pitcher or two his move goes from good to great. Really looking forward to seeing the Braves tonight. Just hope Teixeira has a great game.
By geauxbraves2000
July 31, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this
Tick, tock, tick, tock….
Geaux Braves!!
By AJ GREEN WEARS #1
July 31, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this
And Beltran is down! Oblique is sending him to the DL! Let the run start!
By bryan
July 31, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this
Dave,
Some good new music today …
Common - Finding Forever
Sounds like a harder, more advanced version of his last CD (“Be” was one of the best ‘first listen’ CD’s i have ever heard … but faded once you kicked it for a summer).
I also just downloaded (read purchased!) the Madlib blue note remix album (madlib is the west coast beat genius behind the MFDoom classic Madvillian).
Just broke up with my girlfriend and purchased West by our old friend Lucinda to ease the pain … don’t know why I waited so long, i guess i was waiting to buy it when i needed it! (ohh and speaking of girlfriends, FYI mr O’brien we have mutual-mutual…ehmmmm….friends…. you dog!)
Pumped about this trade… absolutely pumped!
lots of roster moves to make!
I am excited about Dotel … but i doubt we can get a pitcher … after the butt kicking Bronson handed us a few weeks ago, damn fine # 3 or #4.
By Lew
July 31, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this
Josh-They also have Dan Smith and Trey Hodges at Richmond if push came to shove in the starter sweepstakes.
By Voice of Reason
July 31, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this
Let’s see… July 31, 2007. MLB non-waiver trade deadline day, Glavine going for #300, A-Rod going for #500, Baroid going for #755 (tainted or not), Tex across the diamond from Hoss. What a day! Man, I love this game and this team!
By Lew
July 31, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this
Where did NoBrainZone go? Do you think our superior logic and analytical skill convinced him the Mets are doomed? Or did he just go to look up the vocabulary in our posts? Maybe it’s naptime at his after school care center.
By jon712
July 31, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this
I guess four of the Braves’ exes will soon be in Texas.
By BravesDave
July 31, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this
I hope Teixeira is in Atlanta right now. We need him in the lineup tonight.
I cannot believe that the teams that are lining up for Gagne all have great closers…the Yanks, the Red Sox, and the Mets. Meanwhile, we have fatso and we could not get him. I wish there was some way to have acquired Gagne. I really would have felt 100% confident that the NL was in the bag with that guy coming out of the bullpen in the playoffs.
By Josh
July 31, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this
Thanks Lew. I have a hard time keeping up with the Richmond team :)
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
July 31, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this
HERE HERE Voice of Reason
Nicely said!!! Couldn’t agree more!!
By Big Kev
July 31, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this
trey hodges.. shudder
By Lew
July 31, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this
Josh-Go to the Braves’ website and there are links (through the roster icon) to all the minor league affiliates. They have up to date stats on the players.
By Colin
July 31, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this
DOB WILL DOTEL BE IN ATL BY THE DEADLINE AND IF NOT WHAT DOES REDS WANT FOR ARROYO
By Andy
July 31, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this
DOB, who do you think the Braves will call up to be the back up catcher? Iker Franco, Brayan Pena, or Corky Miller?
By Lew
July 31, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this
Kev-Maybe so, but Hodges does have ML experience, has been doing better in recent days (got his K to BB ratio more in line) and we are talking option #7, after all. Just talking potentialities-that’s all.
By Steve from OH
July 31, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this
I hope JS leaves Dotel alone and goes after Cliff Lee or Joe Blanton. Lee could be had for a reasonable price and would be more useful than Dotel.
By BigD
July 31, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this
The Braves are reportedly offering Jo-Jo Reyes in a deal for Bronson Arroyo. A deal still seems like a long shot, but the Braves have been extremely aggressive. Reyes would likely go right into Cincinnati’s rotation if dealt. However, he’s a whole lot more interesting in NL-only leagues as a Brave. Source: Cincinnati Enquirer
By Lew
July 31, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this
Now y’all do realize that the deals are probably already done, but with just 2 1/2 hours left until the deadline, that no one is making calls to the media at the moment? They’re still working on whatever else they can do in that time. Hang in there. Informing us of what’s going on is probably the last thing on JS’s mind (or any other GM’s mind) right now-or getting in touch with DOB, Rosenthal, Gammons, Perry or Crasnick , for that matter.
By Jared
July 31, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this
From Rotoworld:
“The Braves continue to wait on the Mark Teixeira deal to be formalized before finalizing their trade for Octavio Dotel.
Sources told Yahoo! Sports’ Tim Brown that neither deal had any chance of falling through. The Braves are trading Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Elvis Andrus, Neftali Feliz and a second pitcher for Teixeira and Ron Mahay, plus Kyle Davies to Kansas City for Dotel.”
By Efrim
July 31, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this
The Braves are reportedly offering Jo-Jo Reyes in a deal for Bronson Arroyo.
A deal still seems like a long shot, but the Braves have been extremely aggressive. Reyes would likely go right into Cincinnati’s rotation if dealt. However, he’s a whole lot more interesting in NL-only leagues as a Brave.
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this
Pretty quiet leading up to the deadline…
By Bill Heller
July 31, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this
Octavio Dotel has pitched less than 50 innings in the majors since 2005. Why is he worth Kyle Davies?
By Chase
July 31, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this
HEY DOB
Any new news?
What about ARROYO? DOTEL?
DAVE O’BRIEN must be very busy!..He is M.I.A
By Ron H
July 31, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this
hey ppl, what do you think of batting Andruw No. 4, in front of Tex? Pitchers HAVE to pitch to him. it might get him going…i don’t know.
although i would love to add dotel, i think we have a more pressing need with starting pitching. once again, what do you guys think?
Gooooo braves!
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
July 31, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this
I have a feeling that any player acquired today will not be in Atlanta for tonight’s game becaue of this apparent dragging of the feet by the Rangers. Perhaps, JS can file some sort of grievance. It doesn’t take that long to look over medical records. Not to mention that it was said yesterday that Harrison’s shoulder exam came up fine and that he simply had some soreness. Surely, the Rangers wouldn’t pull some sort of stunt by dragging their feet on finalizing this deal hoping that something better will come along. I say this because it was widely agreed that JS gave Daniels until early yesterday to make a decision so Daniels did. But, maybe Daniels made a decision but is now hoping he can reverse it. I just have never seen a professional orginization take this long to read a report.
By Lu Lu
July 31, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this
I have an important qustion about Tex:
boxers or briefs???
By David O'Brien
July 31, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this
Still NOTHING. Royals waiting for Braves to call, and other teams being held up because they’re in running for Dotel, and if they think they can get him they’re not going to pull trigger on trade for another reliever, etc, etc.
Braves can’t do anything until Rangers sign off on deal. Not going to collapse: Y’all don’t worry about that. But until Texas signs off on Harrison, Braves can’t trade Davies.
Anyway … hang on. Gotta decide soon.
Still have conflicting reports on Teixeira, whether he’s in town or not. Should know that shortly, too. I’m already at the park, so soon as I see/hear anything, I’ll let you know….
Finally got around to playing the Isbell CD. Underrated, in my view. Really good stuff. Not as much DBT-sounding as I thought, which ain’t a bad thing. More bluesy-rock than rock….
Bryan, thanks for the rec on Common. He’s outstanding. Him and the Black Star guys (Mos and Talib), I like that sound.
I’ll recommend to you the new Frank Black double-CD, 93-03. Great stuff.
Yes, I heard about our mutual friends thing. Small world, indeed.
By Numbers&Numbers
July 31, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this
I know numbers aren’t everything but…….
On Base Plus Slugging of Braves players:
Chipper Jones /1.022 Mark Teixeira /0.921 Edgar Renteria/0.870 Kelly Johnson /0.862 Willie Harris /0.828 Matt Diaz /0.828 Jeff Francouer/0.779 Yunel Escobar /0.763 Brian McCann /0.763 Andruw Jones /0.747
How can you bat Andruw ahead of so many good hitters? If he’s not getting on base more or out slugging other players, what (other than he’s a hall-o-famer) could be the reasoning? A lot of GREAT players had to move down in the order late in their careers. It’s not a slap in the face just how the game goes…..
By Chop Chop
July 31, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this
I don’t think Schuerholz has enough time or prospects left to be going after four or five guys right now. The Tex deal hasn’t been completed yet and the Dotel deal will be done after that happens. Schuerholz may have one other deal in the works right now before this deadline, but my guess is that he’ll probably end up making a waiver-wire deal if a lesser starter or more bullpen help is needed.
By ernesto
July 31, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this
Reitsma done for the year with Seattle. More elbow troubles.
Been reading recent rumblings about the run ins Tex had with some people in the Ranger org. but that can’t really worry Braves’ nation. If Bobby can keep a guy like Sheff happy he can handle anyone. Plus the Braves’ culture is pretty firmly established and of course, winning makes everyone happy - except guys in the NBA.
By Lew
July 31, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this
I just saw where Chris Reitsma has been shut down for the season. He is now scheduled for his 5th elbow surgery-for arthritis. It may be career threatening. Reitsma says he has “the elbow of a 60 year old.” I think we were aware of that fact. Nonetheless, I wish him the best for a speedy recovery and the resumption of his career-such as it has been..
By Colin
July 31, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this
Braves Offering Jo-Jo Reyes For Arroyo
The Braves are making a push to get one of the better starting pitchers available. They’re willing to give up pitching prospect Jo-Jo Reyes to get Bronson Arroyo. My guess is that Reyes alone would not be enough; the Braves might have to dip into the farm system and pull out another prospect.
If you’re a Braves fan, you’re really have to admire John Schuerholz’s willingness to go for broke. Maybe he’s found a market inefficiency in teams overvaluing prospects.
By SomeCallMeChief
July 31, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this
DOB, any projections on the roster moves that will be made to clear the way for Mahay and, if needed, Arroyo/Dotel? We’re getting pretty thin on players with options left. Ascanio could easily go back, but surely we don’t plan to carry three 1Bs? I assume Jo-Jo would go-go if we got Arroyo.
By JRB
July 31, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this
I am afraid the starting pitching is too weak to get us into first place by September 15th, because with Smoltz’ recent shoulder issues, he will need to sit the last two weeks of September to be of any help in the playoffs. Also, has no one else seen the erosion in McCann’s defensive catching skills in the past three months? He can’t block a low ball, doesn’t want to block the plate in a slide situation, and will, in all liklihood, need surgery in the off season to correct the knee issues he is currently playing through. Why didn’t we teach him to play first base to keep his bat in the lineup and put Salty behind the plate. Giving up the minor league prospects may or may not hurt long term. Unfortunately, this looks like Shurholtz’ last stand to give Chipper, Smoltz, and Bobby one more chance to win it all. The cupboard will be bare for some time to come as far as minor league pitching prospects. Go Braves!
By flange1
July 31, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Thanks for the new blog and the insight, we appreciate all of your information.
Lew,
You have had a couple of great days! Your comments to the moronic Mets fans yesterday and you Chopped up NCZ today. Give it to um good!!!
I am pumped about the Tex trade and the Dotel trade. JS has put this team in position to win. I hope the players feel the same way and we will see an excited bunch of players and fans for this series with the Astros.
Now if we could only get Carl Crawford……
And yes JJS, LETS GO TUSHY could be a bit of a problem for BC…
By Chase
July 31, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this
KARL RAVECH of ESPN just said:
The BRAVES are NOT a YOUNG TEAM…Chipper, Smoltz, and Andruw are there
How stupid can you get?!!!!!
After Chipper, Smoltz, and Wickman
ALMOST EVERYBODY ON THE TEAM IS UNDER 30
McCann, Frenchy, Escobar, Soriano, James, Johnson are all 25 and UNDER
TEX is 27 and Andruw is “old” and he only turned 30 THIS SEASON!
If you count Tex, Andruw and eventually Escobar that is 6 out of 8 position players 30 or UNDER…THAT IS A YOUNG TEAM
ESPN stop hating and DO YOUR HOMEWORK!
By Colin
July 31, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this
I hope we dont trade away the whole future unless we win back to back WS
By Ron Roberts
July 31, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this
Forget the trade deadline… game time is like, what, less than six hours, and there’s been no mention of a backup catcher being added to the roster, yet?
By Carolina Gent
July 31, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this
It’s been obvious since the beginning of the 2nd half that the Braves were in need of some upgrades. I’m really happy that Tex is on his way to becoming a Brave, and hope that JS gets something done to bolster the rotation. Dotel would be a nice addition, but I think a good #3 or 4 starter would help as much or more. Either way, though, I remember how the team responded so well after picking up McGriff, and it feel like the same will happen with Tex. He’s glad to be in a winning situation, and the uncertainty of the last week or two is now past, so the team can concentrate on playing ball again, and make a serious run at the NY Mess.
By Carolina Gent
July 31, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this
It’s been obvious since the beginning of the 2nd half that the Braves were in need of some upgrades. I’m really happy that Tex is on his way to becoming a Brave, and hope that JS gets something done to bolster the rotation. Dotel would be a nice addition, but I think a good #3 or 4 starter would help as much or more. Either way, though, I remember how the team responded so well after picking up McGriff, and it feels like the same will happen with Tex. He’s glad to be in a winning situation, and the uncertainty of the last week or two is now past, so the team can concentrate on playing ball again, and make a serious run at the NY Mess.
By David O'Brien
July 31, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this
SaltyWoody, here’s exactly what I wrote:
The second pitcher will be right-hander Neftali Feliz, 19, a hard-throwing Dominican rated the Braves’ No. 18 prospect by Baseball America. He has 70 strikeouts in 55-1/3 innings in two seasons at Rookie and Class-A levels.
What happens to the copy after it gets to our desk is out of my hands. Until you pointed it out, I hadn’t even noticed the typo. Not my fault, so I’ll not apologize.
By Pirate
July 31, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this
DOB- A Question? With Cormier having an ERA under 1 in his past 4 starts, will he be coming up to take JoJo’s place in the rotation? Also, could we use JoJo as a 2nd lefty in the bullpen (come in during the 6th or 7th inning to get 1 left handed batter) down the stretch? Finally, I know Bobby doesn’t trust him, but Devine is throwing bb’s down in Richmond. The other night he had a nine pitch inning with 8 of them strikes. Will we ever see him in Atl or is he trade bait for Arroyo?
By duder
July 31, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this
so will tex be in the lineup tonight or what???
By Ron
July 31, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this
JS you gotta get Arroyo!!! You gave up SOOOOO damn much for Tex, now if you have to give up everybody in the farm except Hanson, Brandon Jones, Campbell, KK, and maybe another guy here and there then do it!!! We need another Starter Badly!!! If we get to the playoffs, John Smoltz may not be able to pitch BUT one game in a 7 game series, with his arm injury!!! IT is vital to get another Good Starter!!! No way we should trade Renteria for Garland OR Vasques!!! We have to keep all of our major leaguers here, not in trades!!! No reason to give a damn about the prospects now, we done gave up 4 of our Top 25 Best prospects, so get Arroyo JS NOW!!!
By Baron
July 31, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this
We are now ready to rock. Tesh should provide us with all the fire we need offensively. For those posting lineups, I might point out that Willie Harris has been under performing all season at leadoff. His numbers in the one hole: .247 BA, .347 OBP, .676 OPS. Strangely though, in only seven fewer AB’s, his OPS in the two hole is 1.017!!! That’s hot!
I’d go KJ/Escobar leading off, and I would give Diaz a solid two uninterrupted weeks starting in LF before I would try that platoon again. I particularly like Diaz in the 8 hole because he is tough to pitch around- mainly because the guy swings at, and puts in play, almost any pitch that doesn’t bounce off something. Diaz OPS in eight hole: .920.
I would definitely cast my lot with the Tex as cleanup, and really, I might even drop Andruw all the way down to 8. Every starter has got a better OBP that Andruw. If all we can expect out of him this year is the occasional long ball, perhaps we should stick him in the second cleanup spot. He certainly commands enough respect around the league that nobody is going to pitch around to get to him, so he might as well provide protection to our other guys.
As far as pitching goes, I’d wager that JS and BC must be expecting a solid return from Villareal if they are so focused on picking up another reliever. I hope it works out. I think our main problem in the bullpen has been the overwork brought about by starters not going deep enough in games. Think about how many times we’ve see the bullpen have to pitch 13 or more innings over a three game stretch? And then they’re shot for a week or more. It’s tough when your 3-5 guys aren’t even expected to go more than 5, which Chuck and YoYo aren’t.
Rambling post. So glad to see that wanker from last night has finally disappeared.
By Efrim
July 31, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this
The other propsect can’t be Hanson. It can’t be. Lillibridge is fine, but Brandon Jones and Tommy Hanson are off limits.
By Interested OBserver
July 31, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this
Somebody needs to find that little twerp in Texas and shove a cattle prod up his rear end. This is ridiculous. Last time I checked Harrison only had two shoulders and only one of them was sore.
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this
BoSox just got Gagne according to Rosenthal…
Man, that sucks that the Rangers have screwed up the last day of the trading deadline! First, they dragged their feet (which other GMs reportedly complained about), sent Tex to where everyone thought he was going in the first place, and now won’t sign off on the deal. I think the Mets have paid off Daniels!! (:
DOB, any rumblings that the Braves indeed have offered Jo-Jo for Arroyo?
Regards,
Jason
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
July 31, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this
Andy It will definitely be Pena. In fact he was playing that role before Salty was called up and played well. B/c Salty played so well when Pena was hurt earlier this year he stayed up and Pena stayed in the minors. Pena will be a fine job starting once a week and as a PH. he is a legitimate b/u C and is hitting over .300 for the year.
By Ron Roberts
July 31, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this
And DO’B… dunno if you’re a smoker or not, but somebody should leave a cig burning on top of some paper in the press box today.
I’m feeling like a ceremonial Lighting of the Press Box to commemorate the Braves’ new 1B arrival, a la Fred McGriff.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this
COLIN NAME YOUR SOURCE!
I’d do JO JO for ARROYO!
By BravesDave
July 31, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this
This waiting for the Rangers to approve this deal is ridiculous. First of all, I don’t think we should give them Davies in this deal, even if Harrison is rejected due to injury. Let’s face it, as inconsistent as Davies has been, and as maddening, this guy has pitched some fantastic games in the major leagues…Boston debut, shutting down the Mets a few times, etc. There is no way he should be a throw-in in this deal for Teixeira. Ridiculous. Give them another prospect and get Davies to the Royals for Dotel. I am really getting sick of the Rangers. There is a big difference between a 19-year-old prospect that have never sniffed the majors and a pitcher that has won games in the bigs.
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this
So DOB is this going to hurt us from making other deals?
By Voice of Reason
July 31, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this
As we enter the 2:00 hour, expect radio silence for a while as the final non-waiver trades of 2007 pass across the desk of the Commish, which is located on the dark side of the moon. Remember, the trades only have to be submitted by 4:00, not announced. We could be hearing trade news well after 4:00 as they are approved and then announced. As a result, I am getting absolutely NO WORK done, as I foolishly troll every internet source I have ever accessed in search of some snippet of news to satisfy my trade deadline information addiction.
In a related story, it is amazing how I can make this futile activity actually look like some semblance of real vocational productivity. It’s a good thing that I’m my own boss, because I’m too valuable to me to give myself a hard time over this…
By Bob, Journalist
July 31, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this
I certainly agree that there’s no question but that it was a good trade … it’s that, regardless of what happens in the future, and I’m optimistic about that too!
TexasBrave, I wasn’t meaning to suggest that they would now be pressing … but “trying too hard” could so translate … and “could” rather than “would” was the intent … we’ll see.
I certainly agree with “now they can be more relaxed and do what each does best” but there’s a difference between “can” and “will” just as there’s a difference excelling as individuals and excelling as a team.
As Robert(JITB) said, the team has not been trying to hit homeruns … I just hope that continues … we’ll see.
Fear may have been too strong of a word to use as it probably suggests strong anticipation while I was only intending to express mild concern over the possibility … probably triggered by some of the comments of Jeff and other players regarding the possibility of acquiring Tex.
Tex is obviously intelligent … his choice of schools tells you that much … and certainly, the ingredients are there for making a pie of which LeTawn’s mama would be proud!
By DAP
July 31, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this
fair weather bravefanhater Am I misunderstanding you or are you saying AJ should stay in the 4th hole? There is no way he should hit in the clean-up spot at this time.
my answer NOOOOOO! i thought i said that andruw could and probably should be batting 5th. maybe i meant 4th was good for him BEFORE tex, but no.
i also like the lineup KC proposed.
By n8
July 31, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this
I love the lineup suggestions…Here’s mine:
Johnson/Escobar (L/R) Cox loves those platoons, and as a recent AJC article said, this one is better at leadoff than Harris has been
Renteria (R)
C. Jones (S)
McCann (L)
Tex (S)
A. Jones (R)
Frenchy (R)
Harris/Diaz (L/R)
I think you split up your switch hitters, and with McCann as an underrated RBI man instead of Andruw for the time being.
By David O'Brien
July 31, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this
If no other trades made, I’d think Thorman would be designated, Pena called up, Julio goes to backup/pinch-hitting role. But just assuming.
Yes, Jo-Jo would have to go in Arroyo deal, I’d imagine. I’d do it because Arroyo is under contract a few years, reasonable salary, and is much better pitcher than his numbers indicate.
He’s 2-3 despite a 2.61 ERA in his past seven starts, including six quality starts and only four homers allowed in 48-1/3 innings. Reds scored only two runs in four of those seven games while he was in.
By Thrillhouse44
July 31, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this
Hasta la vista, Davies.
By BossLady
July 31, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this
LOL jon712
By Carroll (NOT Ms. Rogers)
July 31, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this
I need to know if Tex is going to be in the lineup tonight!!!!!!!!!! I just bought tix because I was told he would be here and starting tonight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By ugafan
July 31, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this
Ron, I believe Matt Diaz is the emergency catcher, so they would be covered if need be.
By Lew
July 31, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this
Flange-How you been Dude? Yeah, the Mets trolls are no big deal- they don’t even strain the brain putting them in their place. Now if we could only convince some of the Braves’ faithful that we’re still two or three deep in the minors with GOOD prospects. Hell, we still have two .300 hitting catchers in AA and AAA. Efrim has posted well on the young pitchers we still have in the minors. There’s quite a group still down on the farm. Life is good and about to get better.
By JMar
July 31, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this
I wouldn’t even SIGN Arroyo for the contract he’s got right now, let alone give up Jo-Jo and another prospect for him.
By ssiscribe
July 31, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this
Top of a very, very busy afternoon denizens. The Scribe and the rest of Braves Nation are up to our eyeballs in trade deadline talk, chatter, rumor and thought on this muggy Tuesday in the capital city.
Now, Dotel (noted transition by the Scribe): Getting a veteran hard-thrower for the bullpen for Kyle Davies straight up is a steal for the Braves, plain and simple. Nobody wants to see Davies succeed more than I; saw him pitch several times in high school. He’s a great kid from a great family and it’s been tough to watch him struggle.
I think eventually Davies will be a very good major-league pitcher, once he gets his confidence back. But to make a very good baseball team even better, and to make the prospects of this team competing for the world championship this year even more of a reality, I say you pull the trigger on the deal and get Dotel. Dude throws hard and has closer’s experience.
And a change of location, I think, would give Kyle a fresh start.
Now, Arroyo (more transition from the Scribe): Is this the big-time starter you want, and is it worth Jo Jo Reyes? Arroyo has been dreadful for a dreadful team, but he does have postseason experience (pitched for the Red Sox in their world championship season in 2004; won 10 games in the regular season, a 7.41 ERA in 10 postseason games — two starts).
If I’m correct, he’s locked up through 2010, but I think his salary climbs pretty substantially. I’m not 100 percent sure I do this deal if it’s for Reyes, who I really like even though he’s only been up here for a little bit. I think you have to be mindful about adding to the payroll down the road, because I think you have to make it next to impossible for Teixeira to leave after next season. I guess it comes down to who you want starting Game 3 of a playoff series, James or Arroyo.
Now, the hunt for October (more transition): Get Dotel, and I think along with Teixeira and Mahay the Braves are very capable of getting to the World Series. Plain and simple. This, as I’ve said so many times on this forum since January, is a good baseball team. Now, it’s a very good baseball team, one that certainly has the talent to win in October.
If you are a Braves fan, I think you cannot help but be excited. Management has opened the way for this team to spend some and get in position to win. Now, it’s up to the team to get it done between the lines.
We wait for word on Dotel and potentially a third big deal. But for now, the Scribe abides.
—30—
By Colin
July 31, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this
Chase
mlbtraderumors.com
By Zoldars
July 31, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this
SO whats up with the Arroyo deal? What were we offering for him? Is it Jo-JO and do you think thats a wise trade DOB? OK, ill wait like everyone else. And Rock The Bells tour is in ATL this Thursday…WU WU!
WU-TANG CLAN, ERYKAH BADU, NAS, MOS DEF, TALIB KWELI, UGK, DAVID BANNER, PHAROAHE MONCH, IMMORTAL TECHNIQUE, JEDI MIND TRICKS,
HOSTED BY: SUPERNATURAL
By doug
July 31, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this
Hey Colin, your typing in bold.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
July 31, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this
The Rangers need to pull their head out of their you know what! Their apparent illiterate medical staff is holding the Braves from making other deals. For the love of God they have over 24 hours now to look at the reports. Either sign off on Harrison or pick one of the other pitchers from the list. Lets get on with. It took less time for the Declaration of Independence to be written.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
July 31, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this
I don’t know if anyone else is w/ me but I am getting a little nervous. First, we(or Texas) took so long to get the Texas deal done and now being held up for medical checks. We’re waiting so long for all this to get done that it might cost us other moves. It might cost us what we need most of all. PITCHING
I hope it gets done soon so we can finalize another move or movES.
By A.J.
July 31, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this
DOB:
Is the Arroyo thing at all realistic?
I’d be down for Arroyo for Reyes and maybe like a Lillibridge.
I don’t think Arroyo is as bad as people wanted to think. He’s quite solid to good, plus he’s signed through 2010 option 2011 I believe. He’s only making 4.4 mill this year and pitches a ton of innings.
He’s the best we could get on this market, he’s way better than our best option to pitch fifth. He’s consistant enough for a playoff run. He’d actually be our 3rd or 4th starter and would help in the playoffs. Plus he makes our bullpen better by consistantly going pretty deep in games. His ERA is only 4.33. He’s 4-11 because he’s on the Reds.
So DOB is this as possible as the rumor mongers would have us believe?
Does it keep popping up because it may be true or does it keep popping up because one person made everyone else believe it?
By Arkansas Hillbilly
July 31, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this
Lu Lu, Where are you from? I know a Lu Lu on a couple of other boards, and I’m just checking to see if you and her are one in the same.
DOB, That Isbell c.d. is really starting to grow on me. That kid can really write some good songs. Geez, how good is “Dress Blues?” “Hurricanes and Hand Grenades?” “Brand New Kind of Actress?” “Chicago Promenade?”
How many of you here think Salty’s development will speed immensely since he won’t be pressing to win a roster spot or starting job?
By Colin
July 31, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this
We need Arroyo and Dotel.
By Salty
July 31, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this
Do you think our superior logic and analytical skill convinced him the Mets are doomed?
Lew superior wasn’t needed.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this
Cincinnati.com (which is the main page link to all the Cincy newspapers like the Enquirer and Post) is confirming that the BRAVES have offered JO JO REYES for BRONSON ARROYO
We’ll see I guess!
By The Berry Boys
July 31, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this
We think it’s hilarious how some yahoo is always writing First!, and that’s the whole post and they’ve wasted it because they are really, like, 12th. That kills us every time.
Hey, Robert character (whoever’s doing it now) HEEHAW!
By Shaun
July 31, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this
Chase,
I think he means a lot of the Braves’ key players are not young. And while 26-30 is not old even for a baseball player, it’s not young either, especially for a position player.
But he didn’t say they were old. He just said they are not young.
Not hear to defend Ravech. Just saying it’s true that the Braves don’t have all that many young everyday players.
Their lineup from the second slot to the fifth slot is made up of guys older than 27—that’s a lot of key player that are, again, not young but not old either.
By texdawg
July 31, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this
Everyone here in Big D is glad to see Tex leave. I hope whatever negative vibes he seemed to impart on the Rangers clubhouse don’t come with him to Atlanta.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
July 31, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this
DOB, I agree about Arroyo. As much as I would like to keep Reyes, it is a deal that would have to be done. Of course, it is all moot until Daniels can understand the words, “Harrison’s shoulder is fine.” I would think JS would attempt to trade Thorman even if its for some jobber prospect. If the Braves are able to get Teixeira, Dotel, and Arroyo then they are the clear cut winner of the trading season and this would be the best job done by a GM in 10 years!
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this
Robert (JITB),
Dude, you made me laugh. You would think that I had money invested in one of these potential trades or something…can’t get any work done..some would say I don’t get any done anyway… (:
I agree…what the heck is Texas doing??? Take Davies name off the list and trade him for Dotel!
I would include Jo-Jo for Arroyo, but I would rather have Garland. Bowman reported earlier that the Braves were still trying to get Garland or Vazquez as well.
Regards,
Jason
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
July 31, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this
Hey, Lew! In the spirit of all the good things that have happened over the last 24 hours and the fact that we both love the Braves to no end, I would like to apologize for my overreaction to you the other day. I only hope you accept it.
By jwshults
July 31, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this
Nice inclusion of John Hiatt’s Drive South, DOB. I still consider his Perfectly Good Guitar one of the great songs of all time.
Keep bringing it old school, DOB!
JayDub
By bryan
July 31, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this
Dave,
some of my close friends rep Frank Black soooo hard … and i like what i hear … what.s an * album* you can recommend? I try to stay away from Greatest Hits stuff … unless that is really your recommendation, and i will pick it up (15 bucks on itunes for the double dish).
FYI that Madlib Blue Note Remix Album its like 50 full length songs and I got it from iTunes for 9.99 … - hey i know your iTunes feelings, I’m just saying!
Have you downloaded Safari 3 from Apple? The new find feature is awesome - especially while trying to push through a blog quickly.
This sucks that the braves have to wait to get a deal signed off on before other trades can happen … its gives me a knot in my stomach to think about the tension.
Daniel Johnston plays in Savannah in two weeks!
By bryan
July 31, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this
Dave,
some of my close friends rep Frank Black soooo hard … and i like what i hear … what.s an * album* you can recommend? I try to stay away from Greatest Hits stuff … unless that is really your recommendation, and i will pick it up (15 bucks on itunes for the double dish).
FYI that Madlib Blue Note Remix Album its like 50 full length songs and I got it from iTunes for 9.99 … - hey i know your iTunes feelings, I’m just saying!
Have you downloaded Safari 3 from Apple? The new find feature is awesome - especially while trying to push through a blog quickly.
This sucks that the braves have to wait to get a deal signed off on before other trades can happen … its gives me a knot in my stomach to think about the tension.
Daniel Johnston plays in Savannah in two weeks!
By Chop Chop
July 31, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this
Robert JITB, the Rangers are not living on BST (Braves Standard Time). They can take as much time as they like and we can choke on it. The world does not revolve around the Atlanta Braves.
Also, According to Chase, the Braves are being “hated” on by ESPN. I’m typing this as I hear the Braves being idolized yet again by Steve Phillips and Peter Gammons. Yeah. ESPN hates the Braves.
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this
Jason Stark just said on ESPN teams are calling for Bob Wickman
By Wes
July 31, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this
“I’d be down for Arroyo for Reyes and maybe like a Lillibridge.”
Good God why?
Us giving up even one of those for Arroyo would be pretty close to getting fleeced.
By Interested Observer
July 31, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this
Are there any bloggers in the Arlington, TX area that can go over and egg Jon Daniel’s tricycle?
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
July 31, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this
I don’t know if you heard this but Jason Stark just said clubs have been calling the Braves to see if Wickman is available if we get Dotel. He also said none of our trades are final yet . Either way, the Rangers screwed us w/ the waiting game.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this
WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON WITH THE RANGERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
DOB what is taking so long…it is screwing up other trades!!!!!!!!!!
By AthensBrave
July 31, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this
Chase,
I can’t stand Karl Ravich….he’s a punk. Yesterday when Gammons and Kruk were both praising the Braves for the trade…Ravich kept giving it a negative spin
Hurry the f#@k up Rangers…sign the papers
By Lew
July 31, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this
Salty-Valid point, Dude. Trolls. Oh, The Humanity (or lack, thereof).
By BravesDave
July 31, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this
Right now Stark (everyone’s favorite) is talking about how the Rangers are screwing everything with refusing to approve the Teixeira deal. The Rangers are focusing on the Gagne deal, so other teams are calling the Royals about Dotel and Homeboy has told the Royals that if some better offer comes along, go for it. Stark said the players have not officially been told that they have been traded, so I would guess Teix is not in Atlanta. Also, Stark said teams are calling the Braves about Wickman, figuring he would be available if the Braves get Dotel. Who the heck would want Wickman??? Can we trade him to the Mets, please????
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this
Well it looks like Texas might cost us Dotel, Arroyo, and maybe trading Bob Wickman.
By NO CHOP ZONE
July 31, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this
Oh yeah, big bad Lew put me in my place. I’m totaly rehabilitated now…… I like how the Mets trade went under the radar. All they did was add a gold glover who is hitting .304, can steal bases and is a switch hitter. He’ll bat 2nd behind Reyes making for a nice 1-2 punch at the top of that line-up……GO METS!!!!!!
By rupert
July 31, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this
DOB, just heard stark talk about the braves getting offers for wickman because of possibility of them aquiring dotel, any chance the ship wick out?
By Chase
July 31, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this
Jayson Stark said other teams are calling the BRAVES about WICKMAN!!!!!
Very interesting!
By Christy
July 31, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this
I know it’s pretty much done, and I know I may be the lone voice, but I’d just as soon not trade Davies for Dotel. I’m more than okay with JoJo for Arroyo, but optimist, and perhaps something of a romantic, that I am, I think Davies will have his act together sooner than later and I’m not exactly falling all over myself with his ERA, especially over the last season and a half.
Maybe it’s just that I haven’t seen Dotel this season, and my view is colored by the few times I caught his act last season. And I don’t remember his post-season performances being all that when he was with the Mets, but then again, maybe age helps there…
By Wickman???/?
July 31, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this
I guess not only have we got Dotel….now we’re trading Wickman according to Yahoo.com
NEW YORK — The Atlanta Braves are shopping closer Bob Wickman.
Any deal would likely be contingent on the club completing a swap with the Kansas City Royals for Octavio Dotel, which is being held up until the Braves can complete the Mark Teixeira trade with the Texas Rangers.
As the deadline approaches, the Braves and Rangers continue to digest the medical information on the six players involved in that trade. One source insisted neither deal was in jeopardy, and the delay was simply a matter of exchanging information.
By Shaun
July 31, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Yeah, Arroyo’s ERA, adjusted for league and park, is about seven percent better than average. And he’s probably better than that if he goes to a stronger defensive team.
Plus he was a reliever for most of his younger years, so he didn’t throw a lot of innings meaning he may not carry the same injury risks as most pitchers.
And I know it’s still extremely early in his career but Reyes hasn’t looked good at all in his first four major league starts. It’s not tough luck either. He’s walked 11 guys in 18.7 innings. Again, it’s only 18.7 innings but 11 walks is 11 walks.
By Ron
July 31, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this
I f*** hate those damn Rangers!!! less than 30 minutes until the deadline!!!!!!!!! We are gonna end up not doing nothing else!!! B******, I wish the Braves would say forget Tex!!! It would have been much better getting Arroyo, Conine, and another reliever than basically doing Tex and Mahay!!! We severely need another Starter, and apparently it wont happen!!! I hate those damn Rangers!!! We cant rely on JoJo, or even Cormier for the rest of the year!!! If we dont get another Starter, then the Tex trade will be the downfall of the Braves this year!!! Piece of s**!!!
By Marty
July 31, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this
If track record means anything — and it does — Garland is terrible. Unless we have to give up next to nothing for him, I’m not interested.
By Colin
July 31, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this
Stark On Dotel, Wickman
Jayson Stark was just on ESPN talking about the crazy market for relievers. As you know, the Octavio Dotel to Atlanta trade is held up until medical records for all six players involved in the Teixeira deal are reviewed. That’s just business as usual.
But Stark’s saying that teams are still calling up the Royals trying to beat the offer of Kyle Davies for Dotel. He also mentioned that teams are calling the Braves to try to pry Bob Wickman loose in the event that the Braves do get Dotel.
By JMar
July 31, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this
Since people are pointing out how cheap Arroyo’s contract is for this year, check out what we’d have to pay for him down the line. And keep in mind that he is 30 and last year was his only good year.
Bronson Arroyo will get base salaries of $4,125,000 this year and $3.95 million in 2008, figures set under the old contract. The extension includes a $2.5 million signing bonus that will be paid in 2008. Arroyo will get salaries of $9.5 million in 2009 and $11 million in 2010. There is a club option at $11 million for 2011 with a $2 million buyout. The option can escalate to $13 million, based on innings.
If we trade for him, be prepared to have his contract as an albatross around the Braves’ neck for a few years after.
By Austin
July 31, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this
BravesDave The Rangers are not “refusing” to sign the papers, they just have a lot goin on right now.
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this
Stark On Dotel, Wickman Jayson Stark was just on ESPN talking about the crazy market for relievers. As you know, the Octavio Dotel to Atlanta trade is held up until medical records for all six players involved in the Teixeira deal are reviewed. That’s just business as usual.
But Stark’s saying that teams are still calling up the Royals trying to beat the offer of Kyle Davies for Dotel. He also mentioned that teams are calling the Braves to try to pry Bob Wickman loose in the event that the Braves do get Dotel. Tim Brown backs this up - Wickman can be had if Dotel is secured.
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this
Absolutely disgraceful…bad, bad development…that’s the beauty of a player to be named later…
but, of course, one of the PTBNL happens to be a guy we can trade for a great setup guy with closer experience…can’t JS call Texas and see if they were going to take Davies if Harrison’s reports are not to their satisfaction? Can’t they make an agreement one way or the other? If it is, offer someone else to the Royals…if it isn’t, do the deal!!!!
Freaking Daniels…yes, I understand the world doesn’t revolve around the Braves, but there are ways to do things and ways not to…the unwritten rules of professional engagements…or maybe I wish there were so we weren’t in this freakin’ situation!
Regards,
Jason
By Patrick
July 31, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this
Here’s a new one, BOB WICKMAN to the INDIANS for either Paul Byrd or Cliff Lee
again pending on Texas, thank you Daniels..
By Bob, Journalist
July 31, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this
Robert(JITB), I don’t understand your “I have a feeling that any player acquired today will not be in Atlanta for tonight’s game because of this apparent dragging of the feet by the Rangers.”
Since the player with the soreness is not one of the two coming to Atlanta and a rejection would only affect the choice of pitchers, why would the lack of action by the Rangers delay the departure of the players being traded to Atlanta?
I agree that it could impact their being allowed to play tonight … if the deal hasn’t received MLB approval by game time, which I assume is unlikely
By Chase
July 31, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this
SHAUN
KJ, Frenchy, McCann, and eventually Escobar, are all under 25 that is 4 out of 8 everyday players! HALF THE TEAM!
Then TEX is 27 and ANDRUW is 30. That is 6 out of 8 everyday players not to mention that Diaz is 26!
That, overall, IS A YOUNG TEAM!
Especially when compared to the METS!
After Reyes ans Wright, the METS’ starters are ANCIENT!
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
July 31, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this
Just in Gagne trades to the Red Sox. At least the Mets didn’t get him!!
By David-ATL14
July 31, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this
Pena caught today for Richmond in a 12:00PM Game. While he may well be on his way up, he won’t be in unifrom tonight.
By flange1
July 31, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this
Hey Lew,
All good here especially with JS making these great trades. I agree about the depth of our farm clubs. People are gushing about B. Jones, but G. Blanco’s numbers have been pretty good this year and he plays center! Our farm system is strong even losing 3 major talents to the Rangers, Davies to the Royals and a few more to the parent team.
Is Arroyo too much to wish for?
By Bob
July 31, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this
Ron,
Calm down dude!! What time zone are you in? There is an hour and 15 minutes left, not 15. A lot of times trades are announced up to 2 hours after the time has come and gone because the deals were made. I am sure JS has got things working.
By David O'Brien
July 31, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this
Still waiting….waiting…
Hillbilly, he definitely can write some tunes. And I love the whole Muscle Shoals influence on this record. “Dress Blues” is an instant classic. “Down In A Hole” and “Chicago Promenade” are great. Several others, too….
Zoldars, Immortal Technique is THE MAN. Love that CD, Revolutionary Vol. 2, with “Obnoxious” on it….
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this
Listen to this craziness…
” Braves dangling Wickman
By Tim Brown
Tuesday, Jul 31, 2007 2:11 pm EDT
NEW YORK — The Atlanta Braves are shopping closer Bob Wickman.
Any deal would likely be contingent on the club completing a swap with the Kansas City Royals for Octavio Dotel, which is being held up until the Braves can complete the Mark Teixeira trade with the Texas Rangers.
As the deadline approaches, the Braves and Rangers continue to digest the medical information on the six players involved in that trade. One source insisted neither deal was in jeopardy, and the delay was simply a matter of exchanging information.”
That doesn’t make any sense to me…you are trying to strengthen the pen!
Get Garland!
Texas, hurry the he!! up!!!
I can’t take it…need a Valium…
Regards,
Jason
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
July 31, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this
Gagne deal gets done in HOURS and we can’t get our deal done in DAYS. Do you think Daniels got p** at JS for playing hard ball at first. Something that we don’t know about happened.
By espnviewer
July 31, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this
honestly i don’t ever recall steve phillips say bad thing about braves. he usually overrates the braves if anything; i think he’s still shellshocked from his days as mets gm.
don’t also remember peter gammons say bad things about braves.
but i think, for whatever reason, from a braves fan, karl ravech and joe morgan always seem to look down on braves, or somehow try to minimize braves’ worth
By BigD
July 31, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this
According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Yunel Escobar is involved in the conversations between the Braves and Reds for Bronson Arroyo.
JUST SAY NO, JS
By Chop Chop
July 31, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this
Karl Ravech Bio
Karl Ravech was born and raised in Needham, MA. Karl attended Ithaca College and Binghamton University in New York. Karl Ravech has worked at ESPN in many different roles. He has sucked at every one of them.
By TK
July 31, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
I think the Braves need a starter more than a RP. What is killing the bullpen is no complete games from the starters. And then when someone has a meltdown (Davies) it really taxes them. To shift gears…I think it was Lew that likes Grace Potter she will be on Jay Leno Wed Night Thur morning.
By Bob
July 31, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
Tex deal done. Davies free to go to KC.
By Lew
July 31, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
NoBrainZone-What a laughable Little Troll you are. The only thing about you that would ever surprise me is if you ever got a clue. Gee-Y’all did a deal to get a replacement for an injured player and then lose your cleanup hitter. Yeah, that improves your team, doesn’t it? Under the radar? Dude, you have to be flying to be picked up on the radar, not sitting with your thumbs up your anal cavity. Poor, poor Beltran. His belly hurts and he can’t run. Can’t hit a curve, either.
By ObiWanKobe
July 31, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
Deal done, Davies not in Texas deal
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
July 31, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop, I understand that the Rangers aren’t on Braves standard time. However, they are holding up other teams as well. Either sign off or move on. That is why other GMs like working with JS and many have complained about Daniels. I do agree with you about this perception that ESPN “hates” the Braves. I think there is a bias toward the Yankees and Red Sox but that bias is exhibited by everybody. Phillips, Gammons, Stark, and Olney have repeatedly stated the Braves are in this race until the end.
Interesting teams are wanting Wickman. Who are the teams? JS should entertain offers but take no less than an outfield prospect and a pitching prospects. Perhaps, the Yanks would be interested? Dodgers? Brewers?
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
Patrick,
Where did you hear that?
Regards,
Jason
By GTA
July 31, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
Buster Olney just reported the Tex deal was finalized.
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
Hey it is a DONE DEAL. Davies to KC for Dotel
By David O'Brien
July 31, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
Tex deal done, Davies not in it.
So expect the Davies-Dotel thing to develop real quickly.
By ssiscribe
July 31, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
THIS JUST IN: Buster Olney on ESPN reports the Teixeira deal is done and official, and Matt Harrison is a part of the package going to Texas.
This clears the way for Davies to go to KC for Dotel.
—30—
By Chase
July 31, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
BUSTER OLNEY SAYS THE TEX DEAL IS DONE!
DAVIES was not included and will be going to KC!
Bring on DOTEL and ARROYO!
By HP
July 31, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
Buster Onley Reprots it is official that Teixeria is a Braves and now we can go after Dotel.
By Chop Chop
July 31, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
Teixeira is a done deal, so they can do the Dotel deal. Patience, grasshoppers.
By Jared
July 31, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
ESPN says Teixeria to Braves done! It’s over, the Rangers have signed off on it.
DO NOT TRADE WICKMAN!!!!
By Eric
July 31, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
He am getting antsy, it is almost2PM central, that makes it 3PM Eastern, only one hour to go and still no press conference. Is this thing gonna go south on us, have we been tricked, is the Tex deal gonna stand or not.
By Marty
July 31, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
Hey guys — keep in mind that there’s no real reason to believe that the trade hasn’t been consummated already and we’re just waiting on an announcement. These things happen quietly and quickly, especially when Schuerholz is involved.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
July 31, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
TEX deal is a done deal!!!!!!
By iwalterp
July 31, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
Someone mentioned that Tex had much more horeruns in Texas’ stadium than on the road. So I looked up the demensions of Texas’ stadium and compared them to the Ted and found that they are very similar. Texas stadium(Right field shortporch=325, centerfield=407, leftfield shortporch=332,right center=381,lerftcenter=388). Ted Turner Field(right field shortporch= 330,center field=400, left field shortporch=335, rightcenter=385, leftcenter=380) The light air during summer months in texas is no worse than Atlanta, so Tex should do fine.
By Adam
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Dotel and Texiera deal is official according to baseball tonight!
By Ron
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
We just got Dotel for Davies!!!
By Bob
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Stark now reports Dotel done as well.
By ObiWanKobe
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Dotel to the Braves, reported by Stark
By GTA
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Jayson Stark just reported Dotel for Davies is a done deal as well.
By Colin
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Its official Tex, and Dotel to Atl, Goodbye Davies, and Salty.
By Andy
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
It’s offical. Dotel and Teixeira are now Braves.
By Voice of Reason
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
JStark says Dotel for Davies is official!
By ernesto
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
ESPN - Just reportign the Tex deal is DONE!!! Davies not included - JS now free to pull the trigger on the Dotel deal.
ESPN just reported Davies for Dotel a done deal.
Also just reported Arroyo has been told he wn’t be traded by Reds management - we’ll see.
By Eric from MO
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Jason Stark just reported Dotel is a Brave
By Jesse
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
dude shaun your an idiot…26-30 is considered the early part of a players prime. The average age for a major leaguer is 27
By Stephen
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Tex deal is finally done! Will he be in the lineup for ATL tonight?
By BravesDave
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Buster Olney says the Teixeira deal is DONE and dusted. Kyle Davies is not included. This frees up the Braves to move on other trades.
Some female ‘reporter’, after talking about how the Red Sox are offering to pay Gagne’s moving cost, said Arroyo does not want to come to the Braves.
DOTEL IS A BRAVE. CONFIRMED BY ESPN. FOR KYLE DAVIES.
By HP
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Its official: According to Jason Stark Braves have trade Kyle Davies for Octivio Dotel.
By scstrato
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Olney just said “the Teixeira deal is now done!
Right after, Stark came on and said the “Dotel deal is done”. He went on to say he received TWO calls confirming it.
Way to go big JS!!!
By Joe
July 31, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
deal done!!!!!!!!! also Dotel coming for Davies
By dirty scirbe
July 31, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this
ESPN’s Stark says Dotel and Texiera deals are done.
By Stat Heads On Crack
July 31, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this
It may be business as usual, but this Texas deal has to be a pain to the Braves. Why is Texas dragging along with finalizing the deal? What’s the matter, is their team doctor playing golf today or something?
It’s an hour and 15 minutes till the deadline and none of the wire services are calling the Tex deal complete yet.
So if Texas drags up to the last minute, does KC get cold feet and trade with someone else because they are worried the Braves aren’t going to meet the deadline? Wouldn’t it suck if Texas got their targets out of the deal but sabatoged the Braves finishing their work with other teams?
I bet JS isn’t going to be anxious to deal with Texas in the future. Seems like it’s been a big jerk around since the first minute they started talking.
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this
DOB, thanks…I was on the verge of a anxiety attack (: I defy my age sometimes…
Now, let’s get the Dotel deal done and snag Garland…shouldn’t be too hard to do, right? (:
Let’s go Bravos!!!
Regards,
Jason
By dirty scribe
July 31, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
ESPN’s Stark says Dotel and Texiera deals are done.
By Marty
July 31, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
God, Paul Byrd? Did we not learn the first time? And Cliff Lee?? Holy hell, look at the guy’s numbers. He’s absolutely horrible.
By TK
July 31, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
ESPN just reported the Texas deal is done. And the Dotel deal. Great job JS!!!
By HP
July 31, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
Lets now get Bronson Arroyo!!!
By rupert
July 31, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
olney just said tex deal is done, davies to kc for dotel done as well, olney and stark both reported that
how bout them bravos?
By Austin
July 31, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
TEX A DONE DEAL!
By ssiscribe
July 31, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
THIS JUST IN — Jayson Stark reports Dotel for Davies is done and official.
—30—
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
July 31, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
Wow Stark just came on to say the Dotel deal wasn’t going to happen and he received 2 calls….Another Done deal Dotel for Davies
MUTTS look out. HERE WE COME!!!
GO BRAVES
By Shaun
July 31, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
Chase,
He didn’t say it was older than the Mets, did he? Or that it is an old team? Or that all the players are old? He just said it wasn’t a young team.
Are you sure you just don’t have a problem with something else he said? Because saying it’s not a young team seems fairly accurate, overall.
By Dawg88
July 31, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
Trades now official!
Tex to ATL
Dotel to ATL (for Kyle Davies)
Hope these trades work but for me I’ll believe it when I see it. Good Luck Salty, Kyle, Elvis, Harrison, etc. I’ll miss seeing you at Spring Training each year.
By Good Luck
July 31, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
Best of luck Braves and Braves fans. It doesn’t matter how many runs your offense puts up, as of proof late, your bullpen will give up just as many. JS is selling for this year and by the way when does his contract expire??? Will there be any prospects left in the organization?? Join the fan ban heading to Texas. It may take a while but at least they have a future to look forward to.
One last note, We sure won’t miss DO’s insight (or lack of). When are you people going to wake up and step up to “your beat writer”. I think he needs to take a long vacation and come back with some positiveness. Be thoughtful of your team not so degrading. By the way DO have you ever thanked Mark Bowman for the great, positive insights on the team?? Thank God he posts first so we can receive the positive informative side before we read your work (or lack thereof). There is light at the end of the tunnel. Dotel was just aquired. Will it be enough. I sure hope so for the the future braves fans.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this
What could we possibly be looking to get for WICKMAN?
By Chris
July 31, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this
Davies deal now done according to espn.
By Austin
July 31, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
STARK REPORT
Dotel to ATL Official
By Patrick
July 31, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
DONE DEAL!!! Dotel in Davies out, so now it’ll either be Arroyo, Byrd or Lee coming to Atlanta
By Michael
July 31, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
Jason Stark: Davies for Dotel done.
By Bob
July 31, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
I agree that ESPN has a bias towards the Red Sox, Yanks and Mets, but it is really hard to find any criticism with today’s show. Jeeez guys. Gammons, Olney and Phillips have fallen all over themselves praising JS and the whole Braves organization. What the hell do you want? If you think this is hatin on the Braves you are nuts!!
Glad to hear both these trades are done. Looking forward to tonight.
By SteelCav
July 31, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
Peter Gammons is about the only watchable thing going for ESPN and he loves the Salty-Tex trade. I’ll take that as affirmation….yes, great trade!
By Stephen
July 31, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
Will Tex be in the lineup tonight?
By Efrim
July 31, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Yunel Escobar is involved in the conversations between the Braves and Reds for Bronson Arroyo.
Escobar and Jo-Jo Reyes for Arroyo is a fair offer. The Reds, though, have Alex Gonzalez signed through 2009, and it’s doubtful Escobar would prove to be an upgrade on Edwin Encarnacion at third base. If they did get Escobar, it could be to move him for pitching in the offseason. He’s definitely in demand.
By jason
July 31, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
Dotel deal done as well, Stark reports.
By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)
July 31, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
Yep , it was a great trade , for the offense and defense. Where is the pitching and don’t give me this Ron Mahay will solve the bullpen crap because he won’t. Where is the damn P-I-T-C-H-I-N-G ?????????
By BravesFanInRockies
July 31, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
Wow. What a day. And more to come over the next couple hours, no doubt.
Did the Tex trade open up the floodgates (I mean all across MLB) or what?
By JMar
July 31, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this
I think Lee makes a lot of sense - he was just sent down to the minors, angered his manager, stunk it up, and recently signed a decent-sized contract extension. But Wickman hasn’t been great, and the Indians are the only other team who ever seem to want him, so once we get Dotel, considering our dearth of starters at that point, we might take a shot on Lee.
By Huck5
July 31, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this
Wickman going elsewhere?
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/mlbexperts/post/Braves-dangling-Wickman;ylt=At8FrdHGIGZBL5HAlMie_XkRvLYF?urn=mlb,40925
David - are you hearing any names?
By Chop Chop
July 31, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this
Done deal: Mets send SS Jose Reyes and 3B David Wright to the Devil Rays for LHP Scott Kazmir.
Omar Minaya: “We wanted to correct our mistake.”
By MEB
July 31, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this
Our equipment manager is going to be real busy. Having Teixeira, Dotel, and Mahay in the fold is going to be great. Certainly hope Tex is a quick study for National League pitching.
GO BRAVES!!!
By Stat Heads On Crack
July 31, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this
As Gilda Radner used to say on SNL……”nevermind.” :)
By Salty
July 31, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this
JMar
As contract go, that is not an albatross by any stretch.
By Chris
July 31, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this
Stupid Rangers. Thanks for taking your sweet time, making it hard to work out other deals.
By Jordan
July 31, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this
Dotel deal done?
By TommyP
July 31, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this
Reading that Escobar could be a part of this trade for Arroyo.
Oh boy…
By Chase
July 31, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this
BRING ON ARROYO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Jason J.
July 31, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this
**If we can get Dotel and trade Wickman for either Cliff Lee or Paul Byrd we’ll be set this year. Shuerholtz is a genius if he can pull all these off! Gone=Davies (ineffective), Salty (blocked at position), Andrus (3 years from majorsand blocked at position), Harrison and the other prospect (2-3 from majors), Wickman (old and increasingly ineffective). Coming In=Tiexiera (BIG bat, Gold Glove), Mahay (much needed lefty), Dotel (lights out closer or 8th inning guy if Soriano can handle closing), Cliff Lee or Paul Byrd (both decent options at #4)! All around good things going on at the Ted today! I’m going to the game tonight with the hopes that Tex will be there. Maybe Byrd can actually PITCH for the Braves this time around!
JJ
By Tommy
July 31, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this
Espn has confirmed the Tex deal and now they just confirmed that ATLANTA has Aquired Octavio Dotel for Kyle Davies
By scstrato
July 31, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
Man! The delay in posting to this blog is long than it takes Texas to approve a trade!!!
By parks
July 31, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
Rotoworld now reporting that could be Escobar and JO JO for arroyo. PLEASE NOT ESCOBAR!!
By Paladin
July 31, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
Lew Just returned from a brief hiatus to see you still rippin’ up them trolls. But, you ask where No Brain At All has gone? Could he be changing into one of his many other suits/identities?
By GTA
July 31, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
DOB will Teixeira be in the lineup tonight?
By Colin
July 31, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
Braves Offering Jo-Jo Reyes, Yunel Escobar For Arroyo
UPDATE: John Fay says the Braves are also offering Yunel Escobar. This could get done. And finally allow Kelly Johnson to play every day again.
The Braves are making a push to get one of the better starting pitchers available. They’re willing to give up pitching prospect Jo-Jo Reyes to get Bronson Arroyo. My guess is that Reyes alone would not be enough; the Braves might have to dip into the farm system and pull out another prospect.
If you’re a Braves fan, you’re really have to admire John Schuerholz’s willingness to go for broke. Maybe he’s found a market inefficiency in teams overvaluing prospects.
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
Braves Offering Jo-Jo Reyes, Yunel Escobar For Arroyo
UPDATE: John Fay says the Braves are also offering Yunel Escobar. This could get done. And finally allow Kelly Johnson to play every day again.
From MLBTradeRumors.com…
NO WAY JS DOES THAT FOR JUST ARROYO!!!!
Holy Snikeees…
Regards,
Jason
By Lew
July 31, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this
Poor Little NoBrainZone-You finally found someone to explain and spell the word “rehabilitated” for you. Too bad it’s not applicable in your situation. There is no such thing as rehabilitation for a Mets’ fan. It’s an oxymoron (whereas you’re just a plain Moron). You wouldn’t be a Mets fan without a character flaw to begin with. Dude, you need a personality transplant. That would help you much more than any rehab program. Troll.
By Mets Stink
July 31, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this
mlbtraderumors.com says the Braves have offered Reyes and Escobar for Arroyo. Please JS don’t trade Escobar!!
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
July 31, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this
I was a little nervous about the Tex deal, but not that it happened and other deals are following, I couldn’t be more happy. Well, unless we get a good SP.
I have been trying to back Bobby and especially JS over the last few days while many have bashed him. To all you JS haters….what do you think now?
GO BRAVES
By ChinMusic
July 31, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this
DOB, what are the odds we see big Tex in an ATL uniform for tonight’s contest with the Astros?
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this
Braves Offering Jo-Jo Reyes, Yunel Escobar For Arroyo UPDATE: John Fay says the Braves are also offering Yunel Escobar. This could get done. And finally allow Kelly Johnson to play every day again.
The Braves are making a push to get one of the better starting pitchers available. They’re willing to give up pitching prospect Jo-Jo Reyes to get Bronson Arroyo. My guess is that Reyes alone would not be enough; the Braves might have to dip into the farm system and pull out another prospect.
If you’re a Braves fan, you’re really have to admire John Schuerholz’s willingness to go for broke. Maybe he’s found a market inefficiency in teams overvaluing prospects.
By SteelCav
July 31, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this
Dotel for Davies???!!! What a friggin steal.
And let me say that I truly wish Davies well in KC. He needs a fresh start. Great stuff, just needs to get that head working straight.
By Chef
July 31, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this
Deal done: Wickman for 1,000 white castles!
By Ron
July 31, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this
I heard that Arroyo does NOT wont to leave the Reds not even for the Braves!!! Well if thats the Case, then forget Arroyo!!! If he wants to play for an awful team and not try for a World Championship then forget him!!! But he is probably just saying that!!! I think If he actually got traded to the Braves he would really like it!!!
By braveslifer
July 31, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this
we’re supposedly offering Yunel Escobar AND Jo Jo Reyes for Arroyo…I don’t like that one bit. Wayyyyy too much. I really like Escobar.
By ernesto
July 31, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this
how long do we control Dotel for? Is he a FA next year?
By Marty
July 31, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this
Good Luck, spoken like a true moron. Go troll somewhere else.
By HP
July 31, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this
Braves Offering Jo-Jo Reyes, Yunel Escobar For Arroyo according to mlbtraderumors.com. Not a god deal if it happens. Have to keep Escobar.
By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)
July 31, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this
Espn has reported that the Dotel for Davies deal is done to. For funny , we give up the farm for Teixeira and get Dotel for nothing. Absolutely hilarious !
By Kenny Lofton Observer
July 31, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
Watching the ESPN thing and keep seeing the DHL commercial that goes “Kenny Lofton has been traded to (whoever)” and they keep moving his stuff in a van.
And I know Kenny Lofton is at the end of his career and maybe needs every cent he can get his hands on, but you gotta think he had to approve DHL’s use of his name/image/likeliness. Interesting choice, though. I mean I wouldn’t want my name/image/likeliness be tarnished as such, making me feel like some piece of garbage that people just keep pushing to the next guy, but, oh well…
By Andy
July 31, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
Looks like the World Series this year may be the Braves and Red Sox.
By KC
July 31, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
TommyP: Where are you reading that?
By BravesDave
July 31, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
Amazing that we are turning over 16% of our roster on July 31. Four new players coming in, minimum, with Teixeira, Mahay, Dotel, and Brayan Pena. I love the stones it took to do this and I hope it continues with a starting pitcher in the next hour.
I guess Thorman, Woodward, Paronto, and Ascanio are gone. Maybe we can throw Thorman into a deal for a starter. I also would not mind getting Paul Byrd for Wickman. Byrd has pitched well this season. 9-4 with a 4.40 ERA in the AL.
By Braves Fan
July 31, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
ESPN is reporting Davis has been dealt fo Dotel
By Johannes
July 31, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
DOB, thanks for the insight as usual! So, now that it’s too late, why Dotel??! Why not Mate from the Pirates? Ddn’t they want Davies? What about C.J. Wilson? Was he unattainable? What’s Jo Jo Reyes going to be doing now? Is Arroyo still available? Time is running out as we all know… And who’s going to be the dd man out with Mahay and Dotel arriving in the bullpen?
WOW THIS WAS AN EXCITING “DEADLINE”!
By scstrato
July 31, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
Whoa!
Braves offering Jo Jo and Yunel for Arroyo? Ouch!
MLB Traderumors
By Chad
July 31, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
I’m all for trading Wickman, but for Byrd or Lee? No way…
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
July 31, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
As DOB just said, the Texiera deal is officially done. It was also just reported by Buster Olney. Jayson Stark said the Davies for Dotel deal is also officially done. Now, it is on to Arroyo, Vasquez, Garland, Lee, and Byrd. Personally the Indians can keep Paul Byrd. Cliff Lee would be quite a steal in my opinion. Of Vasquez, Garland, and Arroyo I would say Vasquez is the best pitcher but Arroyo is the most financally efficient. Whoever was ripping Arroyo’s contract and saying that it would be an albatross is crazy. $4 mil next year for a guy that is #2 pitcher is an albatross? Tie it around my neck, baby!
By Wes
July 31, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
There’s a rumor out there that Yunel might be in the Arroyo deal.
That would be the worst JS deal of all time if it’s true.
By Johannes
July 31, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
DOB, thanks for the insight as usual! So, now that it’s too late, why Dotel??! Why not LHP Marte from the Pirates? Ddn’t they want Davies? What about LHP C.J. Wilson? Was he unattainable? What’s Jo Jo Reyes going to be doing now? Is RHP Arroyo still available? Time is running out as we all know… And who’s going to be the odd man out with Mahay and Dotel arriving in the bullpen?
WOW THIS WAS AN EXCITING “DEADLINE”!
By David O'Brien
July 31, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this
Folks, Braves have got a BULLPEN again.
Dotel deal done. Davies to KC
By Huck5
July 31, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this
Yunel and Jo Jo for Arroyo?
http://frontier.cincinnati.com/blogs/redsinsider/2007/07/deadline-nearer-still.asp
Interesting…
By ssiscribe
July 31, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this
For what it’s worth, I would not deal Escobar for anybody. He’s too valuable — the starting third baseman if/when Chipper gets hurt … or the starting shortstop if/when Edgar gets traded (which I’d seriously consider in the offseason).
Just my two cents. But, based on what’s happened the past two days and what may be still brewing, is there any doubt now the Braves’ brass is exploring every option not just to win the East, but to win the World Series this year?
The Scribe abides.
—30—
By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist
July 31, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this
“c’mon tushy, c’mon kid.”
and does tushy play old maid? is tushy any good at old maid? will there be jealousies on this team? is this ranch big enough for hoss and tushy?
what happens when tushy wins a round at old maid?
“c’mon tushy, c’mon kid.”
By NO CHOP ZONE
July 31, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this
LEW, you sound like such a Vermont queer. You keep going on and on but your still 4 1/2 games back. You’re still on the outside looking in. Lets see what those trades do for you gayboy……
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this
On atlantabraves.com it says it’s not 4 for 2 it is 5 for 2.
By Chris
July 31, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this
Where are you reading this news about Escobar being part of Arroyo trade?
By Don
July 31, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this
Dodgers trade Betemit to the Yankees for Scott Proctor. That deal was rumored last year when Betemit was still with the Braves. Of course, Proctor has spent another year in Joe Torre’s bullpen, which is like a dog year.
To whoever it was advocating that the Braves go after head case Farnsworth, I believe he still has another year after this one at about $6 million thanks to one of the ridiculous contracts the Yanks have handed out to pitchers in the last several years. I doubt Schuerholz would be interested in picking up the rest of that contract, but then again I never thought JS would spend $750K or whatever it was for an injured 36 year old Tanyon Sturtze.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this
JESSE Help me out with SHAUN!
He is convinced I am wrong and that the BRAVES AREN’T a YOUNG TEAM!
Good grief, If they aren’t young, nobody is!
By beachcomber
July 31, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this
DOB - Good analysis of the trade. One other field that may already have been plowed elsewhere - you wonder how the two young pitchers will react to that field of nightmares they have in Texas - as opposed to Turner which plays a lot more fair?
One question that may have been covered during my absence from the blog during vacation time. Who did McBride pi* off? DOB you described the trade of McBride as “curious.” Was this another Spooneybarger deal where the tradee had pi*ed off Cox? Because that trade made no sense from the get-go.
By Chris
July 31, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this
Jason J. How do you call someone with a 3.91 ERA a lights out closer? Are you kidding? And why would the Braves trade Wickman when the bullpen is really their biggest need right now? That would be pretty stupid.
As for Tex…the guy has just over a .260 average on the road. Not so sure he’ll be quite as great as people think. He was afterall playing in the best hitters park in the A.L.
By tyyosh
July 31, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this
What? ESPN2 said 4 minor leaguers to Texas, including Jones? The first name was garbled a bit. Did anyone else hear this?
By BravesDave
July 31, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this
We CANNOT trade Escobar. That cannot happen. No way.
By Colin
July 31, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this
I hope we trade Wickman back to the tribe for Lee or Byrd because put either in the 5 spot behind Buddy WOW!!!!
By JMar
July 31, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this
I think I would cry if we traded both Jo-Jo and Yunel for Arroyo. Just Yunel for Arroyo wouldn’t make me happy. I refuse to believe JS would allow Chris Woodward to be the primary backup all around the infield, except 1b, especially for Chipper.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
July 31, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this
I have ALWAYS given JS the benefit of the doubt in trades and tried not to say anything negative but I would never give up Jo Jo and Escobar for Arroyo. I know SP is what we need the most but those are 2 great young players. If you trade Elvus, you can’t trade Escobar too!!!!!!
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this
Maybe the Braves are trading Wickman for a SS prospect which would allow them to include Escobar in a deal for Arroyo?
Rumors are getting crazy with less than an hour to go!!
Regards,
Jason
By Josh
July 31, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this
At least all of the players we are trading will go to teams we are not in competition with. I wish Salty the best in Texas and I hope they let him catch. I hope Davies can get a fresh start and Kansas City and lead them back to respectability.
Now he’s an option…if these trade rumors for wickman are false. Can Dotel save on the road, and let wickman take over at home? :)
By Jason J.
July 31, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this
Bronson Arroyo, RHSP—Cincinnati Reds: Reds are not interested in dealing him. The Red Sox would probably welcome him back. The Braves have re-expressed their interest in him and with three hours remaining they were offering Yunel Escobar and Jo-Jo Reyes. Last updated: 11:56 AM - Jul 31, 07 by MLB4U.com | Source: John Fay
I hope this isn’t true!!
MLB4U.com is my source
By SomeCallMeChief
July 31, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this
Please, please leave Escobar alone. That kid is the real deal.
Let KJ play RF once Andruw leaves (Francoeur to center) and put Escobar at 2B. Once Renteria leaves, Escobar slots in at short and KJ returns to 2B. Unfair to KJ? Maybe. Good for the Braves? Absolutely.
By Novice Ned
July 31, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this
I love Escobar, but trading for a starter signed for thenext 2-3 years is SOO much better than trading a young starter for an oft-injured reliever with 3 months left on his contract. On second thought, dump Wickman for Byrd and keep Escobar. Anyone gambling that Chipper will remain healthy is fooling themselves.
By Midnight Earl
July 31, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this
Beau Jones added as 5th player for Teixeira.
By Bryan from Kansas (Go KU)
July 31, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this
HOLY COW.. David.. Not Escobar too?
By David O'Brien
July 31, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this
Braves added lefty BEAU JONES to the initial four-prospect package for Tex and Mahay.
That was probably done get the deal completed because the Rangers were concerned about Harrison’s shoulder, but I’ll let you know when I hear for sure.
It was the four previously reported, including Harrison, plus Jones, 20, a 2005 supplemental first-rounder rated the No. 14 prospect by BA last winter.
Folks, that’s five of the Braves’ top 18 prospects that went to Texas in this deal. FIVE. Wow. You don’t see that often.
By Aleem
July 31, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this
The braves and rangers websites are saying that Beau Jones was added to the Teix deal as a fifth player going to the Rangers. I can’t believe we’re being this aggressive…
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this
DOB what are you hearing about this Arroyo deal???
By Paladin
July 31, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this
Sorry, I had missed where NCZ came out from under the bridge, again. But, Lew didn’t.
Look, I propose that we swap him for a fool-to-be-named-later(FTBNL)and then forget about it.
By Marty
July 31, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this
I would hate to see Escobar go. If there’s another way to get Arroyo, that wouldn’t be a bad move.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this
I don’t think JS gives REYES and ESCOBAR for Just ARROYO.
Someone else would have to be coming our way for both those guys
By iluvmccann
July 31, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this
DOB, ESPN is reporting a 5th player in the Texeira trade. Is that true and is that what the hold-up was?
By SteelCav
July 31, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this
Just say no to trading Yunel…gotta be a smokescreen. No way JS or BC trades him.
By Chris
July 31, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this
This would be an awful AWFUL AWFUL deal if the Braves do it. Don’t get carried away John.
“Braves Offering Jo-Jo Reyes, Yunel Escobar For Arroyo according to mlbtraderumors.com. Not a god deal if it happens. Have to keep Escobar.”
By braveslifer
July 31, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this
After reading it again, the cincinnati paper (don’t remember the name website says “The other name I heard in the Braves-Bronson Arroyo talk was Yunel Escobar, the highly rated shortstop. He was Atlanta’s second-round pick in 2005. He’s a Cuban defector.”
“The other name I heard” could just mean that Cincinnati asked for Escobar, and the Braves said “Hell no.” At least I’m hoping that’s what they said. So, after re-reading, I’m not as worried that we’d trade Escobar. As someone mentioned above, he’s the primary backup for Chipper and Edgar, and ready to step in if we decide to deal Edgar after the season (not that we should).
By Wes
July 31, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this
I’m hearing that Braves prospect Beau Jones was included in the Tex deal at the last minute.
Lame.
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this
DOB,
It is being reported that the Braves sent 5 players to the Rangers with Beau Jones being the 5th…and we couldn’t get Wilson…holy crap!
Regards,
Jason
By Mizzou Guru
July 31, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this
Arroyo is a very good pitcher. He had great numbers last year. Over the winter he supposedly pitched, and based on his innings last year and over the winter, he was tired early in the year. Cincinnatti has given him a little extra rest and he is pitching really well now. If the Braves got him, I would call him the #3 starter.
By Novice Ned
July 31, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this
The success of these trades for the remainder of the season still rests with Smoltz being truly healthy. Tex, Mahay and Dotel can’t make up for not having a stud ace… let’s hope John takes care of his arm and takes off a start when he needs to do so. In fact, with the likely momentum from the past 2 days of transactions, I’d be okay if he takes this week off and comes back strong next week.
By Chad
July 31, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
Escobar is good, but he’s slow, his range isn’t that great, and he has NO power.
By JMar
July 31, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
Whoever was ripping Arroyo’s contract and saying that it would be an albatross is crazy. $4 mil next year for a guy that is #2 pitcher is an albatross? Tie it around my neck, baby!
No, if you would read what was written, it’s $6.5 mil next year, $9.5 mil, $11 mil, and probably either $13 mil or a $2 mil buyout. In other words, we’d be paying an average pitcher growing old Tim Hudson money. Remember when everyone wanted to trade Tim after a 4.86 ERA? Well Arroyo doesn’t have anything remotely like Hudson’s track record, and I’m not excited about trading talent to pay that much for a mid-4’s ERA.
By Colin
July 31, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
I really like our chances to win the divison by a large amount. We def have the best offense and we get to play the phillies in that sandbox. WOW the possibilties this year, and next.
By Marty
July 31, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
For the hundredth time, baseball players aren’t little plastic army men that you can just place anywhere on the map that suits you. Kelly Johnson played LF two years ago — remember? — and he was very bad out there. He needs to stay in the infield.
By Lew
July 31, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
OK, Y’all-We’ve been informed. We don’t need any more posts confirming the done nature of the trades. We figured it out after the first 15 or 20. Specualte forward. Please.
By Pimply Faced Kid
July 31, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this
IF Escobar is included in any deal that doesn’t bring Cy Young to the Braves, then all this joy and successful dealing up to this point have been an overall bust! It also says that they mortgaged the future so Bobby and JS could have one more shot before they left.
I don’t want to believe that, but if Escobar goes in a deal for Arroyo, it’s nuts!
So what does that say? Lillebrige is the SS of the future?
By bryan
July 31, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this
No Chop Zone:
Seriously, “queer” ???
I guess you got out of summer school early to post that crap?
Let your balls drop before you come up with any more pre-pubescent, school yard reminiscent, braves-hattin-chump posts.
By Arkansas Hillbilly
July 31, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this
Beau Jones included in the Tex deal. 5 for 2
By dayf
July 31, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
Beau Jones was included in the Teixeira trade too?
By Dr. R
July 31, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
It’s refreshing to have a GM who wants to win now and not make us wait three years (like the Pirates and Marlins, et al). Maybe it helps that he and Bobby are 66 and don’t want to wait forever. Neither do I; I shell out money for a ticket to see the team win TODAY, not three years from now. Screw the future. It’s sad, though, that so many Braves fans get attached to their apple-cheeked hunky little prospects (mostly women who still wearing their Javy Lopez jerseys). It’s about winning, today, not collecting prospects. What would you rather have: A house full of virgins or one woman who knows how to please you? OK, bad metaphor, but you get my point.
By KC
July 31, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this
Jmar: “I refuse to believe JS would allow Chris Woodward to be the primary backup all around the infield, except 1b, especially for Chipper.”
A top-of-rotation caliber starter is much more valuable than a reserve infielder. Now I realize that Escobar is more than a utility guy… he could be a very good player. But my point is that if we have to create a small hole in order to fill a gaping one…
By BigD
July 31, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this
**Talked to a rep with the Braves, Tex was still in Texas as of today, probably won’t play until tomorrow.
Yunel Escobar is going to be a star in the major leagues trading him would be stoopid**
By beachcomber
July 31, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this
Just for grins, I checked out the Red’s blog for news on what would be a horrible trade if it included Escobar.
Bottom line, those folks over there are even nuttier than us Braves fans!
By ssiscribe
July 31, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this
I believe it’s Beau Jones, a pitcher at Rome, who is the fifth player in the Tex deal. He’s 2-0 with a 4.63 ERA in 26 games with Myrtle Beach and Rome this season.
—30—
By Scott
July 31, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this
Is Tex in the lineup tonight??? If so, I want to get to the game tonight.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this
WILL TEX BE IN THE LINEUP TONIGHT?
By KC
July 31, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this
Well, congrats are in order for BOTH GMs in the Tex-Salty trade. We got two huge pieces, and they got quite a haul themselves.
By Jesse
July 31, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
16 of the 25 guys on the braves roster are under 30. this doesnt include jones who just turned 30. the mets on the other hand have 7 of their 25 guys under 30. Many of the braves players that are over 30 are guys like paronto, jones, and woodward who havent seen their 33 birthdays yet
By Chris
July 31, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
I agree totally with JMar…don’t want Arroyo at all. We don’t need another mid 4 ERA guy if we have to get up much of anything at all to get him. I don’t want to trade just Jo Jo for him.
By DrHoo
July 31, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
Arroyo: 11 earned runs, 32 Ks in his last 6 starts, including 7 innings of shutout ball against the Braves. At least we’d be getting him while he’s hot.
By BravesDave
July 31, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
Now I am a little disappointed that we did not get CJ Wilson. Five highly-rated prospects??? Wow. Looks like the Rangers are getting 4 prospects for Gagne, too. Insane.
That is a real shocker, adding in a fifth player in the Teixeira deal. Jeez.
By Ron Roberts
July 31, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
I think the Arroyo deal signals a concern in the Braves’ front office about John Smoltz health down the stretch. Maybe thats just me, but I think dealing Yunel and Jo Jo is a clear indication that we need an insurance policy in the rotation in case Smoltzie’s wearing down. Not crazy about this deal, on the surface, but if Smoltz is ailing or just wearing down, Bronson would be a huge insurance policy for us the next few years. Add him with Huddy and Chuck James, not even considering Smoltz, and that’s a formidable top-three of the rotation.
By George Allen
July 31, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
THE FUTURE IS NOW!
By Robert
July 31, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
What’s Dotel’s contract look like? How much longer is it and for how much? Or is he essentially a rent a player for the next 2 months?
By David
July 31, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
Beau Jones, too? Did the Rangers hypnotize JS into giving up all of our prospects?
This deal makes me sick to my stomach, and I never complain about JS trades.
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this
I bet we hear an announcement regarding a starter…JS knows we need one, and I bet he gets one…
Remember, the deals are not one year rentals…the farm system will be restocked in no time, and as Lew and Efrim have pointed out, we are loaded at the lower levels. No need to worry…
Get Garland and let’s go to the WS!
Regards,
Jason
By HP
July 31, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
Why in the world fifth prospect was added to the deal? If they think Harrsion is injured then they shouldn’t have got him. As previolsly announced the trade should be 4 for 2. They need to have either Beau Jones or Matt Harrison. Otherwise it is a bad deal for the Braves.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
July 31, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
Okay, I totally disagree with including Escobar. We need this guy too much.If it takes Escobar, then I don’t do the deal. The only way I would give up Escobar is if we give up Wickman for another SS or 2B type. If the Cubs were willing to give up Ronny Cedeno, then maybe. If the Brewers want to give up Rickie Weeks, okay. If the Mariners want to give up Ballentin or however you spell it, okay. Otherwise, no way I make that deal. Escobar is a star and as good as Renteria is he is living on borrowed time.
By BEST LINE OF THE DAY
July 31, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
“I realize that Escobar is more than a utility guy..he could be a very good player.”
What insight!
By Chad
July 31, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
Add Beau Jones to the mix and no matter how you slice it, we got raped…
By Lew
July 31, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
Vermont Queer. Gay Boy and Lew-ser-Oh. The Originality (or lack thereof)!!! Surely you can do better than that Little Troll Boy. Here’s some more vocabulary for you to look up, my Little Elementary School Dropout. How about infantile, juvenile, unimaginative, delusional and immature? You can get Mommy to break out the dictionary, or if as I suspect, she left you years ago-just walked right out-there’s always Wikipedia. Dude, you’re not even fair competition. Kind of like Beltran against Wainwright. Totally overmatched. Hey Paladin. How are you today?
By Chris
July 31, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
KC says…”A top-of-rotation caliber starter is much more valuable than a reserve infielder. Now I realize that Escobar is more than a utility guy… he could be a very good player. But my point is that if we have to create a small hole in order to fill a gaping one…”
Problem with this post is Arroyo is not a top-of-the-rotation type of starter. He’s a number 4 starter at best. Sorry.
By The Grinch
July 31, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this
Wow, I just posted on the old blog not 10 minutes ago. Thanks for the update, y’all.
Journalist Jimmy Smith, does our new first baseman have anything to fear from Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top? “Lawd take me downtown, I’m just lookin’ for some Tush.”
Savannah Guy, e-mail me at voton1066@yahoo.com and I’ll forward it to Paladin.
No Chop Zone does a creditable immitation of a Mets fan normally, but you can tell he really isn’t because he’s not hiding right now. If he’s really a fan, he started no earlier than last year or else the innate cowardice and ineptitude his entire organization historically reeks of would have rubbed off on him more.
By Salty
July 31, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this
Chris How do you call someone with a 3.91 ERA a lights out closer?
Don’t use ERA to evaluate a closer; one bad outing blasts things outta sight in a hurry. They don’t get enough innings to ‘absorb’ the damage, unless it happens very early in the season.
By TampaBrave
July 31, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this
LEW,
Take your medication please. Stop hatin brother. All is good in the ATL today. Got to start a streak tonight. Need positive energy my friend.
To All,
My work is done :)
Let’s DO it TO it Braves!
By Wes
July 31, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this
“OK, Y’all-We’ve been informed. We don’t need any more posts confirming the done nature of the trades. We figured it out after the first 15 or 20. Specualte forward. Please.”
Lew, FYI, there’s a 5 minute delay on postings so it’s impossible to tell if someone has already said something…and you misspelled speculate.
By s t i n k y
July 31, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this
But can we get Carl Crawford?
By John96Cobra
July 31, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this
Haven’t seen it mentioned, how long are Mahay and Dotal signed for? Will they be gone after this season?
By Andy
July 31, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this
I have tickets for tonight’s game because I was expecting Tex to play. he BETTER be in the lineup.
By JMar
July 31, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this
KC A top-of-rotation caliber starter is much more valuable than a reserve infielder. Now I realize that Escobar is more than a utility guy… he could be a very good player. But my point is that if we have to create a small hole in order to fill a gaping one…
I see losing Escobar and Jo-Jo as akin to trading Matt Schaub for one second rounder. Except that both Chipper AND Edgar are Mike Vick, and Woodward isn’t even Joey Harrington. If we have to play Chris Woodward for an extended period of time, which is very possible, our season is probably about as over as Falcons fans think theirs is. Not to mention that we’re left with the worst bench in the majors. I’d rather take my chances with Jo-Jo.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this
Braves just traded WILL LEDEZMA and WILL STARTUP, to San Diego for LHRP RUSS RING!
680 the fan: Bill Shanks
By Kentavo
July 31, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this
I would like to hold onto Wickman - gives us more options in pen and insurance should anyone (Dotel) get hurt. But otherwise, I dig these deals.
By Andy
July 31, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this
Lets get Arroyo NOW. What if Smoltz goes down ? We need another quality starting pitcher in case we dont have Smoltz.
By bwash21
July 31, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
I want Arroyo or Byrd here. Either would be good, Arroyo great. BUT
DO NOT TRADE YUNEL!!
By Chris
July 31, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
Braves needed to get Wilson if they are giving up 5 of the top 18 prospects for basically one player who’s only signed through the end of next year. This trade sounds worse and worse now.
And what if they can’t sign Tex long-term? Then they’ve given up way way too much for him for 1 1/2 years.
By geauxbraves2000
July 31, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
I must say, I’m impressed on this deadline day! (With the possible exception of the 5th player to TX, wow)
I’ve got another one, how about Reyes & Escobar for Arroyo & Griffey Jr?
Okay, just kidding, but it was fun to type.
Geaux Braves!!
By mike
July 31, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
Do Not Trade Escobar He’s a stud.
By Paladin
July 31, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
Well, it’s too late to bring in Bill Walsh to put in the West-Coast Offense. I guess it’s BC’s smoke n’mirrows, or nothin’.
By DrHoo
July 31, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
Dotel: 1 year contract, $5 million, so essentially we’re renting him for the stretch run and dumping Davies. Of course Wickman wasn’t going to be around next year, so the closer/setup positions would have needed offseason moves anyway.
By chc4
July 31, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this
So b/c we added Beau Jones it becomes a bad deal? He has a 4.5+ era in a A ball and that’s the deal breaker? Gotta love the armchair GM!!
By Steve from OH
July 31, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this
NO JS, NO! Don’t give away Yunel and JoJo! Package Wickman, Thor and Ledezma for Cliff Lee!
By Chase
July 31, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this
once WICKMAN’S contract is gone next year, We COULD re-sign DOTEL if we want to!
By Lew
July 31, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this
Wes-Yes, I made a typo. Have you never done that before? No matter when the post was posted, the sentiment is still a valid one. So what, exactly, is your point? The reporting went on for about a half hour-not five minutes. Feeling guilty or something?
By TampaBrave
July 31, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this
Good Observation Ron Roberts!!
By Ron
July 31, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this
JS just got B!tched slapped by Daniels!!! That is TRULY pathedic that we even had to throw in Beau Jones in that trade ALSO just to get Tex and Mahay!!! We could not even get CJ Wilson!!! If we dont win it all this year OR Next year, then I hope JS packs his bags and gets the hell out of here!!! I would not be surprised if another player is in that deal for Tex!!! That is TRULY Pathedic!!! Hell A-Rod might have taken one extra player to get him!!! And I am not even joking!!!
By Captain Kirk
July 31, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this
Yes, Tex will be in the lineup tonight. We are about to beam him to Atlanta…starting NOW…
By Carolina Gent
July 31, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this
With the posting delay this may be moot before it gets put up but I hope we don’t trade Escobar, especially for a #4 or 4 pitcher!
By Salty
July 31, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this
Grinch
Apparently Arroyo is disenchanted at the prospect of being a Brave. Clue him that you and your buddies need another ‘jam’ partner to rock with. That ought to sway him!
By Voice of Reason
July 31, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this
While listening to ESPN2 while monitoring the most comprehensive deadline covereage - that being the Braves/Man In Black blog - I heard the phrase “Frank Gore broke his hand.” I thought he said Francoeur and almost choked on my Chocolatey Honey Combs. Now I’ve gotta clean up the chewed Honey Combs and chocolatey milk goo from my desk…
By pinkygonzales
July 31, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this
I have to say that I agree with all the “the future is now” posters. This team is built to win and win in the next couple of years. Chipper and Smoltz are getting up there. Andruw’s in his last year, and Tex may only be around for two. I like Salty and Jo-Jo Reyes and Yunel Escobar and Kyle Davies and Matt Harrison and Elvis Andrus as much as the next guy. But our window is now and the year after that. We don’t have time to develop pitchers and hitters. We need them now. Arroyo and Dotel and Teixeira are ready now. These deals needed to be done.
By Paladin
July 31, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this
Lew Fine, thank you. And I’m just sittin’ here watching a master-at-work. Now, if I could just see you paint. :-)
By Lew
July 31, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this
Oh Wes-One more thing. I’ve been posting on this site for in excess of two years-both before and after the five minute delay was instituted. I’m even aware of why the delay was instituted and who’s posts were responsible for the delay being instituted, but Thanks for the information, anyway.
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this
Chase,
Do you mean Royce Ring? If so, it seems he has good stats so far…
He’s got 44 Ks in 31.2 innings and is 4-0 with a 1.99 ERA!
Regards,
Jason
By Elements
July 31, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this
I don’t like the idea of trading Yunel b/c he can take over 3B if Chipper gets hurt.
By KC
July 31, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this
Chris: Arroyo was 4th in the league in ERA last year. This season, he’s struggled some (until recently)… but the Braves obviously feel that he’s a better pitcher than his numbers this year suggest. But I guess you’re smarter than John Schuerholz.
And BTW, even if he weren’t better than his ERA so far this year… he’s still better than a 4th starter. This ain’t the deadball era man.
By ernesto
July 31, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this
5th player….what was that a tip? Buy 4 get one fee?
It’s Crazy Johnny’s…everything must go!!!!
By josh
July 31, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this
Arroyo’s numbers this year make him a #4 starter. But he won 14 games in his two previous years, while pitching over 200 innings in both.
Chuck James runs into trouble a lot in the 5th/6th innings and Bobby takes him out. Not sure where his ERA and W-L would be if there wasn’t Moylan or someone else to bail him out. Don’t get me wrong, I think Chuck is a good pitcher, but he needs a 3rd good pitch to get through a lineup that 3rd time around. I don’t think he’s a viable playoff starter.
Arroyo, if he finds his groove, is a solid #3. I would trade Escobar for him…but it would be nice to keep Jo Jo. Sorry guys, I just don’t think Escobar is the super star he’s been made out to be.
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this
Ring has also held lefties to a .165 BA in AAA…
Regards,
Jason
By Chase
July 31, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this
DOB….
Anymore word on a STARTER?
By dave
July 31, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this
You people complaining about all the prospects being traded are idiots. In baseball your goal is to win the World Series! Not have the best farm system. The Braves have used their endless pool of prospects to build a highly competitive team. If they had done nothing then you all would be complaining about that. Remember they didn’t trade McCann, Francour, or Davies (until today) who were all highly rated prospects and having them on the roster hasn’t gotten us further in the playoffs. We now have a good mix of veterans and young players with playoff experience and we can make a legitimate run. I can run a list of atleast 20 or more “Prospects” who never did anything!
By Lee in South GA
July 31, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
I hope this Arroyo deals falls through if it means Escobar and Jo Jo are involved. Too many young players to give up at one time. Talk about selling the farm.
By Elements
July 31, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
Tyyosh:
Braves gave up 4 players in the Tex deal.
From Rotoworld: Braves acquired first baseman Mark Teixeira and LHP Ron Mahay from the Rangers for catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia, shortstop Elvis Andrus, RHP Neftali Feliz, LHP Matt Harrison and LHP Beau Jones.
By Steve
July 31, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
I have tickets to the game tonight so can someone please tell me if Tex is indeed going to be in the lineup.
By Ron Roberts
July 31, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
What’s P-A-T-H-E-T-I-C is the bounty of spelling problems we see here on a daily basis.
Did we really just trade LeDISMAL and Will Startup for a lefty reliever from the Padres?
By Chris
July 31, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
Salty Don’t use ERA to evaluate a closer; one bad outing blasts things outta sight in a hurry. They don’t get enough innings to ‘absorb’ the damage, unless it happens very early in the season.
Dotel gave up 2 hits and a walk in his last game pitched in one inning, a hit in the one before that, a hit and two walks in the one before that, a hit in the one before that, a hit in the one before that, a walk in the one before that, a hit and a walk in the one before, two hits in the one before that, two hits and a walk in the one before that, and those are all just in one inning pitched.
So in his past 9 appearences he hasn’t had a single one-two-three inning. So no he really isn’t a “lights-out” type closer, sorry. And it’s not just one bad outing. He’s ok, but he’s not lights-out which was my point to begin with.
By Andy
July 31, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this
LOL, Arroyo wants to be a Red instead of a Brave ? Does he like losing ?
By KC
July 31, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
Ron: “JS just got B!tched slapped by Daniels!!!”
Come on dude, get real. We got 2 huge pieces, and it is by no means a foregone conclusion that Tex will be gone after next year.
Salty is the only prospect in this deal that we can be relatively certain will be an impact player one day. Andrus is a good prospect, but no one knows how he’ll hit in the big leagues. He’s not hitting much at “A” ball. The other kids… they may or may not materialize.
I would certainly agree that the Rangers got a great package here, but JS did what he needed to do. Neither Salty or Andrus are likely to have any place to play. We simply didn’t need them. We DID need another impact player and a lefty reliever.
By Marty
July 31, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
DOB, is this Royce Ring trade made up/
By Salty
July 31, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this
Anyone know who has done better than a 19-12 mark over 39 starts…has a 3.55 ERA…and a 2:1 K/BB ratio? Is that an ace, #2, #3…or what starter?
By Matty P
July 31, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this
Voice of Reason: that is about the funniest thing I have heard this week, thanks for the pick me up!
By Ron
July 31, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this
JS you better hurry the f*** up and get us a good starter!!! No holding back now!!!
By Dr. R
July 31, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this
Fans are zany. No one wants the junk you don’t want, guys, for the same reason you don’t want it. The other GMs aren’t on crack. And do all you folks who slam Schuerholz and Cox realize just what they’ve done for 15 years? Real baseball people think they’re amazing. Braves fans shrug and wonder why we haven’t won the Sugar Bowl in awhile. Clue - less.
By Double Deuce
July 31, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this
Great news with the addition of Dotel to the bullpen. It’s a good move by both sides, Dotel helps the Braves instantly, and Kyle Davies can move somewhere that allows him the time to mature and be the pitcher I think he can be. No pressure to keep KC in a pennant race. Good luck Kyle.
Braves are being very aggressive, and they needed to be to save this season. One aspect of this trade for Texeira that hasn’t been discussed is the impact of Tex on Andruw. First of all, Druw should be hitting 7th, but we all know Bobby won’t do that. Secondly, how will Druw react to not being the prime power hitting threat in the Braves lineup, or more importantly, how will he react to being the weak link, which is what he will become. Unless he can regain some sort of form and put up some decent numbers, he suddenly becomes someone the Braves work around in the lineup, unfamiliar territory for him even with the horrible year he’s having. It will be interesting to see how he reacts.
A sobering thought on an otherwise great day. The only reason the Braves would be willing to throw in Escobar with Jojo for Arroyo is that there is something seriously wrong with Smoltz. I sure hope I’m wrong on that one.
Otherwise, a great day to be a Braves fan. I admit I had my doubts we would be in the hunt in September. After today, not only will we be in the hunt, we will be the hunted. Good Stuff
By brent a.
July 31, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this
Personally, I’d rather wait until the off-season, and deal Edgar, than trade Escobar in a deal for Arroyo, right now.
Just a hunch, but I would garner that Escobar is the Reds request, and not the Braves offer.
By Lew
July 31, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this
Paladin-I never let anyone see me doing my artwork. Keeps them guessing about whether or not I use paint by numbers. You should see Gil In Mechanicsville’s Wurlitzer, though. Great portrait of Smoltz.
By KC
July 31, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this
Josh: “Not sure where his ERA and W-L would be if there wasn’t Moylan or someone else to bail him out.”
He hasn’t been getting bailed out all that often. That’s why he’s got a 500 record despite a very good ERA.
Unlike you, I’m pretty big on Escobar, but like you… I would do the Arroyo dead. However…
If we haven’t heard anything on Arroyo yet, it seems very unlikely that it’ll happen.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this
JASONinMAINE
YES. IT is ROYCE RING!
They were mispronouncing his name initially on the radio.
But yes his stats are GREAT! and he is another Lefty!
Will TEX be here tonight?
Any info on another Starter?
By Bob
July 31, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this
JasoninMaine,
Where did you get those stats on Ring? MLB says 3.60 ERA, 15 IP and 17Ks with 14BB. He is 27 years old.
By El Caganer
July 31, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this
The Braves have a VERY deep farm system and they can afford to lose a few “prospects” to fill holes in order to win now. Unlike other teams the Braves don’t need to trade their good players for prospects, they trade and develop their own. Like this year and years past the Braves always have one of the top drafts. They are definately not mortgaging their future. Historically the “prospects” the Braves have parted with are usually turn out as journymen players at best. Tony Torasco or Keith Mitchell anyone?
The Braves have now filled their bullpen and first base holes. I am crossing my fingers now for Arroyo. In the playoffs all you need is a 3 man rotation and they are 2/3 of the way there. Right now, especially with the bullpen, they appear to be a force to be dealt with. If they get Arroyo then they could very well be the best teaqm in the NL.
Not that I wish any harm on any player, I want the Braves to beat the Mets at their best, and I wish him a speedy recovery; Carlos Beltran is headed to the DL with a strained oblique. If I were a Metropolitan fan I would be a tad more humble. Not to mention Pedro is a 6 or 7 inning pitcher at best if he is able to come back 100% from his injury. The Metropolitan’s rotation is not much better than the Braves and their middle relief is nowhere near as good now as the Braves since they have Dotel.
In general I am stoked as a Braves fan. This is the most excited I have been at the trade deadline since Ted was owner. After Time Warner’s thrifty indifference, Liberty Media is a refreshing change. Unlike Time Warner, Liberty Media is in it to win. Hats off to the new ownership, I was wrong with my “oh no, not another corporate owner”. Liberty Media has exceeded any expectations I had.
An ownership wanting to win is all a fan can ask for. Now it is the fans turn and start packing Turner Field to show their support. Make it to where the visiting team fans can either not find a ticket, have to steeply over pay for a ticket, or at least be stuck in the cheapest upper paviliion seats so their cheers can’t be heard.
By Josh
July 31, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this
Steve,
Its been reported that its unlikely Tex or Mahay will be in a Braves uniform tonight.
By Gene Roddenberry
July 31, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this
Captain Kirk, its ‘Energize’; Not ‘Starting right now.’
By Chris
July 31, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
KC You’re looking at it all wrong. He had one good year last year (Arroyo) but he’s a career 51-55 with a 4.23 ERA pitcher. He’s a number 4 pitcher who had one good season. Judge him on his career numbers. It’s not that he’s struggling some this year it’s that he happened to have a career year last year and now he’s pitching as he normally does.
By The Grinch
July 31, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
Salty, I might even grow my own mullet back out in honor of him and our upcoming WS appearance. I must admit, though; it does seem a bit odd that anyone would prefer Cincy over Atlanta, even if their team was great and ours sucked. That town and state belong in a third world nation.
By Elements
July 31, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
Sorry, that should have been 5 players for Tex and Mahay.
By brent a.
July 31, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
If you have tickets, and are wondering if Tex is going to play …
are you not going to attend the game, if he isn’t?
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
July 31, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
JMar, I apologize for not reading your post correctly. But, my opinion is still the same. Considering what “average” pitchers get in the current market Arroyo would be a steal. He would be making less money than Ted Lilly for goodness sake! Arroyo has been a very good starter and this is by far his bad year. Ask the Red Sox about him. Most of those guys would tell you that he was as important as anybody in their comeback against the Yanks in 2004. I remember that series well. He saved their behinds a few times. The Reds wouldn’t have even been in the playoff race last year if not for Arroyo.
By KC
July 31, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
Well, it is quite possible for JS to pick up another starter after 4pm if he hurries. I say “if he hurries” because at the moment, pretty much everyone we’re competing with in the division and Wild Card races have better records than us. That means they can’t block any deal we try to do through the waiver wires.
Don’t be surprised if something else goes down after the deadline.
By Josh
July 31, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
Its 4pm guys. Now we can sort through what the rumors were and what actually happened.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this
MARTY
The ROYCE RING trade was reported by BILL SHANKS on 680 the Fan
I didn’t make it up…I didn’t even know who he was!
Don’t forget people, we can still here about trades for the next couple of HOURS!
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
July 31, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this
Voice of Reason
That is funny that you said that b/c I thought I heard the same thing. I was reading this blog, half way listening to the tube, I heard it and almost lost it too.
By Huck5
July 31, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this
Gagne to BoSox…
By Lew
July 31, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this
TampaBrave-You’re absolutely right. This is a momentous day for the Braves (no matter how you view the deals). JS has operated today like the final scene of a Godfather movie-one where Don Michael wipes out all his competition (hear that, NoBrainZone?). In the spirit of this new positivity, I should apologize to Efrim. I have given him a lot of grief, even calling his intelligence into question. I have wronged the poor lad. His Minor League analysis, especially of the Minor League pitching has been quite impressive-maybe some of the best to appear on the blog. Efrim, I apologize. I will now vent my spleen on NoBrainZone, who is certifiably a moron and a Troll.
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this
Bob,
The stats you are getting are from his brief stint in the majors. I gave his AAA stats which can be found Here
Regards,
Jason
By Lew
July 31, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this
Oh. The Humility!!!!
By Brett Auerbach
July 31, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this
Will Tex be playing tonight?
By Arkansas Hillbilly
July 31, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this
4:00 est….And Exhaaaaaaaallllle everyone. Time to take inventory on what we’re dealing with from here on out.
By Paladin
July 31, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
Anyone who should ever want to call me names, etc., without fear of retribution should put in in 3 or 4 lines of BOLD CAPS. I scroll pass that stuff, shading my eyes, without reading it.
By JMar
July 31, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
No one wants the junk you don’t want, guys, for the same reason you don’t want it.
And yet every year, someone gives Neifi Perez millions of dollars.
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
From Cincinnati.com:
“Dumatrait pulled from Triple-A start
Kevin Kelly reports that Kirk Saarloos is starting for Lousville tonight. The Bats pulled Phil Dumatrait back from his start. Whether that means anything related to Arroyo remains to be seen.”
There are people over there who think Arroyo may be involved in a trade…
Regards,
Jason
By David O'Brien
July 31, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this
Here’s top half of my trade-deadline story posted soon or already online:
By David O’Brien
The deadline-deal bonanza continued for the Braves today when they traded recently demoted starter Kyle Davies to Kansas City for Royals closer Octavio Dotel.
The deal was finalized just over an hour before today’s 4 p.m. deadline for non-waiver trades. The Braves picked up one of the best available relievers one day after working out a deal for the best available hitter, Texas first baseman Mark Teixeira.
In Dotel, the Braves get a right-hander who posted a 3.91 ERA in 24 appearances and converted 11 of 14 save opportunities for the Royals. He’ll likely serve in a setup role initially for the Braves, but Dotel could also provide a closer option if Bob Wickman struggles during the playoff drive.
Dotel’s .264 opponents’ average includes a .157 mark with runners on base and .132 with runners in scoring position. He’s making $5 million this season, with incentives likely to earn him another $1 million or more. Dotel holds a $5.5 million player option for 2008, an option the team can void.
Most industry analysts say the Braves improved their roster more than any other major league team at this year’s trade deadline. They paid a hefty price in the form of prospects and Davies, who still is young (23) and could still develop into a solid major league starter.
But the Braves were determined to address their weaknesses and make a run at the division title this season in what figures to be a tight three-team race between New York, Philadelphia and Atlanta. The Braves were 4-1/2 games behind the Mets and 1-1/2 behind the Phillies before Tuesday.
Teixeira and left-handed reliever Ron Mahay came from Texas in a trade that sent five prospects to the Rangers including catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia, shortstop Elvis Andrus and three pitchers – lefties Matt Harrison and Beau Jones and right-hander Neftali Feliz.
The Braves and Rangers agreed to most terms of that deal on Monday, but Jones was added to the Braves’ original four-prospect package on Tuesday in order to get the deal done.
The Rangers were concerned about Harrison’s recently sore shoulder, and the Braves agreed to include the highly record Jones thrown in to offset those concerns and get the deal done. Jones, 20 was rated the No. 13 prospect in the organization by Baseball America last winter.
His inclusion in the deal made it five of the Braves’ top 20 prospects included in the package sent to Texas, including four of the team’s top 13 prospects according to Baseball America’s rankings.
Jones was 5-0 with a 2.96 ERA and three saves in 21 relief appearances for Class-A Rome this season, but allowed 13 earned runs in 7-2/3 innings (15.26 ERA) in five games (one start) at high Class-A Myrtle Beach.
The Dotel trade was also worked out Monday, but delayed until Tuesday afternoon because the Braves had to first make sure that Davies was not wanted by the Rangers in the Teixeira deal. Royals general manager Dayton Moore ran the Braves’ minor league system when Davies was coming up through the organization, and Moore believes the right-hander can get things straightened out.
The Royals received a lot of trade interest in Dotel and were offered higher-rated prospects or young players than Davies during the past month.
By Tom
July 31, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this
4:01PM this just in… Atlanta, GA. John Schuerholz, long time Atlanta Braves general manager, found locked in closet today immediately following the mlb trade dealine. Reports indicate that he had been tied up with a set of suspenders. He was unable to speak coherently yet was reported to be mumbling something about “Wren and crazy.” and “not me.” Schuerholz may have been missing for several hours. Minor leaguer, JSS Jr, suggested he may have been missing for days since he failed to call in his nightly bedtime story on Sunday. Local police have searched the closet and John’s pockets attempting to locate his cell phone. It apparrently has been taken from the scene. More to come…
By Carolina Lady
July 31, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this
from Mark Bowman: “Because the trade with the Rangers wasn’t completed until approximately 90 minutes before Tuesday’s trade deadline, Teixeira’s debut with the Braves won’t come until Wednesday night.”
By Ron H
July 31, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this
Davies for Dotel as the buzzer goes off
well, guess we’re going to use the SP we have now…
well, not bad
i think we’re a better team now…
goooo braves
By \\\\\\\\\\BERIGAN//////////
July 31, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this
What I don’t understand is why we had to give up our top 3 prospects(and 5 out of 18) just to get one player! And a guy who hit .265 on the road this year. (and .221 in the teams many losses this year)
Meanwhile, Boston got Gagne without giving up their 2 top minor league starters. They didn’t even have to give up Jon Lester. They gave up a decent 3-4 starter with little ML experience(Kason Gabbard) and a guy who projects to a 4th outfielder.
By Luther
July 31, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this
Just in- In addition to the five previously mentioned players, Braves trade 3 future first round picks, and the Minnesota Vikings roster for Tex, Mahey, and Herschel Walker.
I like the trade, but please just don’t tell me if anyone else is included.
By Interested Observer
July 31, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this
Maybe with all these new bullpen guys, Villareal will be moved to the 5th spot in the rotation. Just speculating.
By David O'Brien
July 31, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this
CORKY MILLER is the catcher called up, not B Pena
By woogidy
July 31, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this
Whats this I hear about the Braves trading for Baldelli?… and also heard Corky Miller up, not Pena. jk about baldelli
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Is it done…for sure we didn’t get a starter? Also, thanks for putting up with all of us and the questions…We appreciate all of your hard work!
Regards,
Jason
By Marty
July 31, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this
Chase, I wasn’t suggesting that you made it up…if you hadn’t noticed, though, these rumors have a way of getting out of hand right before the deadline. ;)
By ernesto
July 31, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this
A quick blog poll.
What’s more annoying?
PEOPLE WHO DO ALL CAPS POSTS.
Or people who do their entire post in bold type for some reason?
By Andy
July 31, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this
It says on braves.com that Tex and Mahay aren’t expected to bein Atlanta until late tonight, early tomarrow, and Texieria won’t play…julio Franco will probably get another start becasue Thorman will be on his way to Richmond…
By Ron Roberts
July 31, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this
Chris, Arroyo’s last four seasons have shown me enough; he’s worth getting. 32-31 with a 3.67 ERA pitching for (and mostly in) Boston and Cincinnati.
More to date, six of his last seven starts have been quality starts. Sadly, two of those quality starts, he was hung with the loss - which means he pitched well enough to win, but the team didn’t.
Give us that kind of effort with our re-re-tooled bullpen and we notch wins.
By Paladin
July 31, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this
Lew My other post might have made more sense if I had included, as I intended, “do you use the same bold strokes?” But, I was interupted by my dog wanting me to ask DOB if Tex was going to play tonight And, Have you heard anymore about…?
Hey, don’t knock it. He cares!
By Ron
July 31, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this
JS if you ended up NOT getting a Starter then I will be glad when you f*** retire!!! NO reason whatsoever not to get a Starter!!! Hell Cliff Lee is an upgrade over JoJo and he would not cost much to get!!! I know he sucked this year BUT he is really really good!!! Get Silva, Byrd, Arroyo, Lee, SOMEBODY!!! PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Robert
July 31, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this
Why Corky Miller instead of Pena - Pena is hitting a whole lot better than Mendoza Miller
By Bob
July 31, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this
JasoninMaine,
Thanks. Sounds like the guy has potential and we could use a second lefty in the pen. I wonder who else is going down. Corky Miller up…isn’t that a surprise?
By Thrillhouse44
July 31, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this
Here’s why I like today: We got a bona fide All-Star/Gold Glove first baseman, a solid left-handed relief pitcher, and a good right-handed set-up man. If you guys remember, our bullpen had started to hurt us a few weeks ago. This move helps solidify late inning leads. It also gives us a stud without disrupting our current lineup. Do you guys realize that? We got better without giving up anyone who was consistently contributing to our team.
True, we gave up some prospects, but I’m concerned about TODAY, not tomorrow. JS put us in a position to compete in 2007. He, and we, can worry about 2008 - 2012 later. Play for the NOW.
It’s a great day to be a Braves fan!
By KC
July 31, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this
I’m guessing we’re going to read the words “the Atlanta Braves designated reliever Chad Paronto for assignment” very soon.
By Zoldars
July 31, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
Just pulled this off of cincinatti.com
Kevin Kelly reports that Kirk Saarloos is starting for Lousville tonight. The Bats pulled Phil Dumatrait back from his start. Whether that means anything related to Arroyo remains to be seen. Posted » 7/31/2007 3:55pm
(Dumatrait is the reds minor league pitcher for tonights game…did they trade arroyo?)
By \\\\\\\\\\BERIGAN//////////
July 31, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
Man, if we get Royce Ring….14 walks in 15 innings??? Bobby will see him walk one guy to start an inning, and he will be “McBrided” or “Ledezmaed”
By Pimply Faced Kid
July 31, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
Thorman can’t go to Richmond, he’s out of options.
By whatwhat
July 31, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
Did the Braves get a starter?
By KC
July 31, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
From mlbtraderumors.com:
“The Phillies are attempting to corner the market on scumbags. Today, they acquired 28 year-old reliever and wife beater/biter Julio Mateo from the Mariners.”
That’s funny stuff.
By Thrillhouse44
July 31, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this
Corky over Pena? What did Pena do?
By Josh
July 31, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this
For those who know…how does Corky’s defense compare to Pena’s? For a backup catcher, I recall Pena wasn’t a bad hitter.
By KC
July 31, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this
From mlbtraderumors.com:
Rangers Offered $140MM To Teixeira
The Rangers made a legitimate offer to first baseman Mark Teixeira before trading him. Apparently they offered him an eight-year, $140MM package. That’s an average annual value of $17.5MM. A little light, but not a bad starting point.
But since the deal covered the 2008 season and Teixeira would’ve gotten around $14MM regardless, it was really a seven-year, $126MM offer - same as Barry Zito’s contract. $18MM a year for Teixeira sounds reasonable, but who knows how it will seem a year from now? He might be a $22MM player at that point. Teixeira will, of course, hit the open market after the 2008 season.
Well… if true, that’s not particularly good news.
By Big Easy
July 31, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this
Any word on the roster moves to make room for the newest Braves?
By ccccc
July 31, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this
Did we get a STARTING PITCHER??????
By dave
July 31, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this
People who do entire post in bold are trying to make a clear point. Same with all caps. Just read the information and move on. It’s a blog. Jeez!
By JMar
July 31, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this
AJC jumping the gun? Via their front page:
Newly acquired first baseman Mark Teixeira should have the tomahawks chopping as he makes his Braves debut vs. the Astros tonight.
By KC
July 31, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this
Although (to follow up my last post)… no one takes slightly less than full market value to play in a place where they’re not particularly happy. If he turned down 17.5 a season in Texas, that doesn’t necessarily mean he’d turn it down in Atlanta.
By David O'Brien
July 31, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this
Yes, one MORE prospect down _ Will Startup and Ledezma to San Diego for LH Royce Ring, who had great numbers in Triple-A and solid numbers with big club.
By Lew
July 31, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this
Berigan-The Red Sox did not get an All Star, Gold Glove hitter with power-signed through the end of next year. They got a reliever, who is signed through season’s end, who has missed two or three successive years with serious, career threatening injuries-who has an attitude and doesn’t want to set up, only close (they already have Papelbon). The Braves, on the other hand, got the biggest player available this trade season, who averages 35 HR and 100+ RBI per year and is capable of hitting .300-who fills our most glaring positional need. We also got the LH reliever we lacked, who has put up pretty damn good numbers in a hitter’s ballpark. Make no mistake, either-They will sign Texiera long term-probably one reason for trying to dump Wicky’s salary (if, in fact, they did). Dude, you’re comparing apples and oranges with those two trades. Yes, we paid a high price, but it’s also highly debatable just how well the five we sent will even do-they have no serious MLB track record. We KNOW how Texiera and Mahay will do. Big difference. Besides, have you even paid attention since yesterday with various blogger’s posts on the deep nature of our farm system? Dude, we still have two catchers in the minors who are hitting .300, and another four or five shortstops coming along, all of whom have high averages and OBP. The cupboard is still well stocked. Check it out for yourself.
By Andy
July 31, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this
Does anybody want my 2 tickets for tonight since Tex isnt playing ?
By Renegator
July 31, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this
Fom MLB Trade Rumors:
Rangers Offered $140MM To Teixeira The Rangers made a legitimate offer to first baseman Mark Teixeira before trading him. Apparently they offered him an eight-year, $140MM package. That’s an average annual value of $17.5MM. A little light, but not a bad starting point.
But since the deal covered the 2008 season and Teixeira would’ve gotten around $14MM regardless, it was really a seven-year, $126MM offer - same as Barry Zito’s contract. $18MM a year for Teixeira sounds reasonable, but who knows how it will seem a year from now? He might be a $22MM player at that point. Teixeira will, of course, hit the open market after the 2008 season.
Not looking good to keep Tex past 2008.
By Len Barker
July 31, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this
I think it was a good trade.
By TexasBrave
July 31, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this
Don’t get me wrong I like getting Tex and Mahey and knew it was going to take a lot to get them, but is there anyone here that thinks 4 prospect is 2 to many for Tex and a 36 year old reliever no matter how well he is doing? I want Tex and the reliever but I think we are paying way too much. I am also willing to bet that the hold up wasn’t over medical reports but the fact that Daniel wanted more. Yea, we are not giving up much more with Beau Jones but Salty and 3 prospects should have been more than enough.
Now since Dotel is a Brave, who gets sent down? Paronto, Moylan or Yates? I think Moylan and Yates still have options but both have been studs. I don’t know if Chad has options but in my book he is the lesser of the three
By Ron
July 31, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this
We gave up that much and Tex still aint gonna be in Atlanta tonight!!! Wow!!! I bet Gagne will be with Boston tonight!!! Everybody knew it was a done deal with Atlanta, and he still aint here!!! Ron H Dude I know you dont actually think this Rotation is fine!!! JS dropped the ball IF he did not get at least a descent Starter!!! You actually trust JoJo or Cormier for the rest of the season!!! I sure as hell dont!!!
By Chris Stephens
July 31, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
With the addition of teixiera, all we need now is for the press box to burn down and we’re assured of a playoff run.
By Steve from OH
July 31, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
Please, no Arroyo. Please, no Arroyo…
By Arkansas Hillbilly
July 31, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this
Looking at the names: Corky, Chipper, Tex, Jo-Jo? Oh the humanity! The Mets will wrap up the division in two weeks tops, because we’re fielding the Little Rascals….
By BravesDave
July 31, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this
What is the possible justification for calling up Corky Miller instead of Brayan Pena?
I am really disgusted with this Rangers situation. Not only do we have to throw in another prospect to get the deal done, but they hold off so long on approving the deal that Teixeira and Mahay will not be with the team tonight. That is bogus.
By KC
July 31, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this
whatwhat: It does not appear so.
Still… the Braves have 3 of the top 15 starters in the NL (in terms of ERA)… 2 of them being among the premier starters in the game. And Buddy Carlyle seems to be settling in as a solid #4 guy. If we can get the 5th starter situation ironed out, the rotation should be in good shape.
And when you consider that the Braves once again have one of the best bullpens in the league, to go along with what is now the best offense in the league… this rotation should do just fine.
Also, as I mentioned in a previous post… right now, it would be very possible for JS to make a post-deadline move for another starter. Because all of the teams we battling in the East and in the WC races have better records than us for the moment, they can’t block any deal we may try to pull off through the waiver wires.
By Marty
July 31, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this
Some of you guys should really get a clue.
Anyone who didn’t think that Cox showed the patience of a saint with Davies, McBride, and Ledezma just plain hasn’t watched enough games. If you had been watching, you’d be just as frustrated as I am and glad to see them go.
Getting a terribly SP just for the sake of saying that we got a SP is not an improvement. We already have enough of those. Trading away potentially good players for more garbage will not help anything.
I hate to give up all those prospects, too, but you have to give quality to get quality. I’m sorry, folks, but they weren’t going to give us the best first baseman in the AL for Ledezma, Thorman, and Davies. We did well to get something we need NOW for some players who may or may not pan out. The Rangers did well to get some players who may pan out in return for a guy they don’t need (since they’ll be awful with or without him).
By \\\\\\\\\\BERIGAN//////////
July 31, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this
Ron,
To be fair to JS on this point at least, no one, NO ONE got starting that was in a pennant race got starting(Well, ok Phillies got Kyle Losch)
Plus, the braves gave up every prospect to Texas anyway! ;)
By brave day
July 31, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this
The Atlanta Braves and San Diego Padres completed a three-player trade today, as the Braves acquired hard-throwing left-handed pitcher Royce Ring in exchange for left-handed pitcher Wil Ledezma and minor league left-handed pitcher Will Startup. Ring will be assigned to Richmond, the Braves’ Triple-A affiliate. Ring, 26, appeared in 27 games for Portland (AAA) in 2007, going 4-0 with a 1.99 ERA, a .188 opponents’ batting average and 44 strikeouts in 31.2 innings pitched. He also appeared in 15 games for the Padres this season and posted a 1-0 record with a 3.60 ERA and 17 strikeouts in 15.0 innings pitched.
By Zoldars
July 31, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this
cincinnati.com reports:
** No deals
John Fay reports that manager Pete Mackanin talked to general manager Wayne Krivsky shortly after the non-waiver trade deadline (4 p.m.), and Mackanin said that Krivsky told him the Reds didn’t make any trades. The Reds did make one move. Catcher Chad Moeller was outrighted to Triple-A, and infielder Mark Bellhorn was called up.
posted by Tim Curtis at 3:22 PM**
By Ron Roberts
July 31, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this
What’s up with all the ignorant hate on Chad Paronto?
Dude’s sporting a 0.77 ERA this month. That follows a 1.29 ERA June.
By ck
July 31, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this
Falcons need to look at culpepper….. just a thought
By Amber
July 31, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this
Somehow I envision JS sneaking into KC, grabbing Dotel, and cleverly leaving Davies behind. Then he gleefully runs away, tossing a shouted, “SUCKA!!!” over his shoulder.
Anyone else think we got the best of both ends of that deal? Seriously - maybe Kyle will do better in a no pressure situation. After all, no one really expects the Royals to win… do they?
Happy Trade Deadline Day to all my fellow denizens! Let’s pop a cork and prepare to regain our rightful place in the NL East!!!
By Paladin
July 31, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this
In that case, “Dave”, why didn’t you do your post in bold, or caps, or both? Jeez!
By Marty
July 31, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this
Dave, you sound perturbed about the trades. Are you?
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this
So DOB is Tex going to play of not some reports say he is some say he isn’t?
By Ron
July 31, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this
KC Julio mateo should fit in perfectly with the Phills!!! Brett Myers and him will have ALOT to talk about!!!
By Steve from OH
July 31, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this
No biggie, Ring’s basically a prospect himself. I like it, looks like he’s got great numbers. JS is really shaking things up here. Good to see. However, if he gives up Reyes and/or Escobar, I’d characterize it as an overall failure at the deadline.
By Hammer'd The Braves
July 31, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this
Pena played earlier today in Toledo, which I guess is the reason Miller is up instead.
By Interested Observer
July 31, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this
In related news, all remaining Braves minor leaguers will move up one level. The team in Danville will forfeit all their remaining games due to lack of players.
By MS
July 31, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this
I would guess that Corky Miller was called up because Pena already played today for Richmond. Bring Corky up for insurance today and then bring up Pena tomorrow. DOB, does that sound right?
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this
Cincinnati.com John Fay reports that manager Pete Mackanin talked to general manager Wayne Krivsky shortly after the non-waiver trade deadline (4 p.m.), and Mackanin said that Krivsky told him the Reds didn’t make any trades.
By flange1
July 31, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this
Interesting stuff folks!
From the ML roster Salty is gone, Corky Miller is added Tex is added, Dotel is added, Mahay is added and Ring is added?
Who goes down?
Woodward or Thorman for Tex Maybe Yates to the DL for Dotel Ascanio for Mahay Cut Paranto for Ring or send Ring to the minors?
Thoughts?
By Marty
July 31, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this
Royce Ring’s minor league numbers this year: 4-0, 1.99 ERA, 31.2 IP, 22 H, 7 ER, 0 HR, 11 BB, 44 K, .188 BAA. Last season: 2-2, 2.97 ERA, .210 BAA. Not too shabby.
By David O'Brien
July 31, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
Here’s new topper for my story, with Ring deal.
Notice the last line. Something I just heard from reliable source:
The deadline-deal bonanza continued for the Braves today when they traded recently demoted starter Kyle Davies to Kansas City in exchange for Royals closer Octavio Dotel, then made a smaller deal for well-traveled left-hander Royce Ring.
The trades were finalized in the last two hours before today’s 4 p.m. deadline for non-waiver trades. The Braves picked up one of the best available relievers, Dotel, one day after working out a deal for the best available hitter, Texas first baseman Mark Teixeira.
They got Ring from the Padres in exchange for lefty Wilfredo Ledezma, who was dropped from the roster and designated for assignment Sunday, and lefty prospect Will Startup, a former University of Georgia standout who was 3-2 with a 2.23 ERA in 42 appearances at Class AAA Richmond.
Ring, 26, was 4-0 with a 1.99 ERA and a .188 opponents’ average for the Padres’ Class AAA affiliate, with 44 strikeouts in 31-2/3 innings. In 15 games with San Diego, he was 1-0 with a 3.60 ERA and 17 strikeouts in 15 innings.
In Dotel, the Braves get a right-hander who posted a 3.91 ERA in 24 appearances and converted 11 of 14 save opportunities for the Royals. He’ll likely serve in a setup role initially for the Braves, but Dotel could also provide a closer option if Bob Wickman struggles during the playoff drive.
The Braves might also try to trade Wickman _ trades can be done after the deadline, provided a player first clears waivers.
By KC
July 31, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
THE BRAVES ARE NOW LEGITIMATE WORLD SERIES CONTENDERS.
The Braves now have:
• 2 of the premier starters in the game, and 3 of the top 15 starters in the NL over all (in terms of ERA).
• One of the deepest bullpens in the game.
• The best offense in the league.
I’m not saying they’ll win the WS. No one can predict that. Baseball post-seasons are perhaps less predictable than that of any other major sport. But they certainly have a legitimate crack at it now.
By Ron Roberts
July 31, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
Hmmm, Will Startup, eh? Somebody had interest enough in him to deal for him. I feel a little vindicated. A little.
By Steve from OH
July 31, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this
Current Trade Scorecard. Let’s see… Braves Get:
Tex, Dotel, Mahay, Royce Ring.
Braves Give:
Salty, Elvis, Harrison, Feliz, Beau Jones, Ledezma (okay, he doesn’t count), Davies, Will Startup.
Thats 8 for four. I’d say that that’s a great deadline right now, but again, if JS gives away JoJo or Yunel, he needs to be taken out back and shot.
By MS
July 31, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this
Marty, well said at 4:40. I agree on all three points wholeheartedly.
By Arkansas Braves fan
July 31, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this
Someone please tell me that this rumor that Escobar going to the Reds for Arroyo was a just a bad joke.
By Josh
July 31, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this
Ring is also a lefty. Nice to have another one of those.
By Doyle Alexander
July 31, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this
I also like the trades.
By Interested Observer
July 31, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this
Pena and Miller were both with Richmond, if I’m not mistaken. The Braves knew this deal was going to go down yesterday. They could have had Pena there as easily as Miller.
By Bravesfanin MetsLand
July 31, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this
I have just bought a very nice cigar that I will be smoking on my deck at nightfall this evening. It will be in celebration of one hell of a July for the Braves. Homeboy upstairs once again proves why he is the best GM in sports today. Boys and girls, we have the best team in the NL ( I know about our starting pitching, but we’ll overcome it)
Good job JS. Let’s go Braves. I’m so glad Edgar is still here!!!
By Paladin
July 31, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this
I think JS has the Braves machine finely-tuned and ready to hit on all cylinders. Now, if Bobby can still get a driver’s license.
By tvsportscaster
July 31, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this
I’ll shed a little light on things for those of you asking why Corky Miller instead of Pena. The reason is Pena is horrible defensively and the Braves pitchers absolutely despise throwing to him. Outside of that there is no problem with him.
By Chop Chop
July 31, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this
Royce Ring
Macay McBride
Compare Ring’s numbers this year with the Padres to McBride’s numbers with the Braves.
It’s almost the same guy, folks. Schuerholz had trade Ledezma (acquired in a straight-up deal for McBride) AND another good young lefty in Will Startup to grab the brass Ring. Strange business, this baseball.
By Lew
July 31, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this
Rene-You have to figure that maybe Texiera didn’t really want to stay in Texas and realizing if he rejected the Ranger’s deal, he could then attempt to sign long term (maybe for the same $$$) with the Braves. If you had the choice of accepting a multi year contract, both for the same $$$, would you rather do it in Texas or Atlanta, where you might actually stand a chance to make it to the post season? I wouldn’t read anything into the rejection of their offer, other than the fact he wanted out of Arlington and away from that highly dysfunctional organization. Considering some of the crap talk the Rangers and those associated with them were talking this week, can’t really say I blame him.
By HP
July 31, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this
The Pirates have acquired Matt Morris from the Giants for outfielder Rajai Davis and a player to be named later. Why didn’t we get him? Has JS looked his career stats. He is good #3 stater for our team.
mlbtraderumors.com
By Anders
July 31, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this
This sure looks like Shuerholz is spending all the players in the prospect bank for one more shot at the brass ring. What does he care? He’s retiring in a year. Bobby Cox too. Let the next guys worry about restocking the system.
By KC
July 31, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this
Someone’s going to call me an idiot for saying this, but…
On paper, I don’t see that the Red Sox (now) have much of anything on the Braves.
They have 2 premier starters (Schilling, Beckett, and another very good one (The Dice man). The back end of their rotation is not particularly impressive. Sounds almost exactly like the Braves.
The Red Sox now have one of the deepest bullpens around. So do the Braves now.
The Sox are one of the best offensive teams in the game. So are the Braves now.
I think the Red Sox, Mets, and Braves are the best 3 teams in baseball now ON PAPER. “Paper” doesn’t mean anything if they don’t execute… but I really do think the Braves have one helluva roster now.
By robdawg06
July 31, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
Its finalized. Braves have traded Kyle Davies for Octavio dotel. now they need to win. No excuses now. Adding Tex and Dotel solved two holes. Will Wickman now be traded or released ?
By BravesDave
July 31, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
This Royce Ring guy pitched in the Maddux-Davies game a few weeks ago. He abused the Braves pretty severely. Pitched 2 scoreless innings in only 10 pitches. Ummm, that is not a typo…2 innings in 10 pitches. He is lefty, he throws hard. I kind of wish he was coming to the big club, instead of going to Richmond.
By shelbrad
July 31, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
Any word on the escobar trade? It cant be true!!!!!!!! HE is pure raw talent and the future of the braves.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
July 31, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this
ANDY Are you a Braves fan or a Teixiera Fan? Why would you want to give up tix for the game since he isn’t playing? I live almost 5 hours away and I can’t count how many times I’ve driven to a game, tailgated and drove straight home(another 5 hrs) just to watch my favorite team. No matter who is playing.
By dave
July 31, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this
Paladin…it wasn’t a point I felt needed to be stressed hence no bold or caps. My point was simply that it’s a blog not an essay. People can post however they want to. Who cares about spelling, bold, caps, italics, whatever…it’s about information sharing and opinions. I respect you or anyone else who doesn’t like to post using those methods, but I chose to do so. For example, I hate the way certain individuals try to sound all intellectual and smart yet they’re probably no smarter than anyone else, but I never complained, because in the time I write up a post complaining about it I can just move on and keep reading. The point is that the blog is about Braves baseball (mostly), so share your’re opinions however you see fit. Read the other info and move on.
By brent a.
July 31, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this
I wish Mitch Kupchak had the balls that JS has.
Also, while Dotel is no Kevin Garnett, it is interesting to see Dayton Moore play Kevin McHale to JS’s Danny Ainge.
By Hammer'd The Braves
July 31, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this
Ring is a lefty who is 4 years older than Startup, with comparable-to-lesser minor league numbers. Hardly an upgrade. This seems a strictly what-do-I-have-give-you-to-take-Ledezma deal.
By Tad
July 31, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this
Great job Braves! What a difference 2 days makes!!! I will be at the TED Wednesday to welcome the new players!
By Gil in Mechanicsville
July 31, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this
Ron Roberts I saw Will Startup pitch a couple of times last week. I would agree he is going to be a good one. Maybe a year or two away but then again I thought he would be in Atlanta before the end of this season. He reminds me so much of Mike Stanton at a similar stage in his career. He needs to develop an off speed pitch but he will be a major leaguer barring an injury.
By Paladin
July 31, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this
…reports that manager Pete Mackanin talked to general manager Wayne Krivsky shortly after the non-waiver trade deadline (4 p.m.), and Mackanin said that Krivsky told him the Reds didn’t make any trades.
What MacKanin didn’t say is that Krivsky then said: “Now, get the hell out of my office”!
By Andy
July 31, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this
Why did the Pirates get Matt Morris ?
By Anders
July 31, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this
Braves fans - Relax! Tex was a nice pick up but Dotel and Royce Ring? This is what you’re celebrating? Dotel blew his arm out 3 years ago and hasn’t been close to the same since. His ball is too straight. He’s got a 3.91 ERA out of the bullpen!! Royce Ring has been in numerous organizations that just give up on him. Classic lefty prospect that everyone thinks they can fix. For the Braves to have a serious shot you need Smoltz and Chipper Jones both to stay healthy. That’s asking a lot based on recent history.
By Julio
July 31, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this
Teixeira to start Wednesday according to official site.
By TheSouthernJackAss
July 31, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this
NOCHOPZONE says, “pssst Pedro is coming!”…TheJackAss thought he could hear joints squeakin’…
By robdawg06
July 31, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this
It would be far worse than idiotic to trade Escobar. He is the next Braves superstar and makes almost no money compared to superstars. When Renteria is gone Escobar can step right in at SS. I’d play him in CF for Andruw right now. Tonight.
By flange1
July 31, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this
HP,
Where did you see the Matt Morris trade to Pittsburgh?
Just got my tickets for tomorrow night! Can’t wait to see Tex or ah, TUSHY!
By Andy
July 31, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this
FairWeather, I’m a Braves fan. I’ve been to plenty of games this year, but i got tickets yesterday specifically to see Tex play today.
By Paladin
July 31, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this
Dave…Yes sir! Now move on.
By DirtyDawg
July 31, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this
Did I hear this wrong? Is Tex-era’s numbers only a fraction better than our current 1B performers?…Two more HRs…single digits more in RBIs and runs scored? Yeah, he’s hitting just under 300, but I thought this guy was supposed to be a huge improvement over what we’ve been getting. Shoot, Salty could have done that well if he’d been the everyday first-baseman.
Of course it doesn’t matter cause the deal is done and I suppose they needed this to generate some excitement, but we’ll rue the day we let Salty get away…I really believe that if the Braves were honest - even up - they’d pick Salty over McCann as the better catcher…and what’s all this stuff about Tex-era being a malcontent?
By Tomahawkin' Again
July 31, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this
This Braves fan rankings for best Schuerholz trade deadline moves: 1. 1993 Crime Dog stolen from the Pads; lights the fire in Atlanta to win the West again 2. 1991 Pena closes the deal of Worst to First 3. 2007 The Great Texas-KC Train robbery 4. 2005 Under the radar adding of Farnsworth helps Baby Braves win again 5. 1992 Reardon saves division fight w/Reds (but good God, don’t bring up games 2 & 3 of World Series).
If Tex and Dotel gets us to the promised land in October, induct Schuerholz into the hall of fame immediately. Great job front office! Now, kick some a@# Bravos!!
By Anders
July 31, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this
KC- I wouldn’t insult the other idiots in the world by calling you one if you really think the Braves are on par with Boston. Come on, let’s not get carried away here.
By TexasBrave
July 31, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this
It looks like Ring has good numbers both at AAA and the Majors. He is probably ready now to come up and help. So is he protection in case one of the other relievers blows up or trade bait?
By bigboi
July 31, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this
I don’t know if this was posted already but Pena played earlier today. Had a great game, also I hear all of the trades that happened before the deadline haven’t been publisized yet. I heard we got Sammy Sosa just before the deadline, that was the reason for 5th player. we can plug him in left field and move willie harris to 2nd and away we go!!!!!!!!
By gotigers72
July 31, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this
I originally liked the Teixeira trade, but now I don’t like any of them. Just read on mlbtraderumors.com where the Braves are offering Reyes AND Escobar for Mr.4-11 Bronson Arroyo. If that happens, someone should commit JS to a mental hospital or old folks’ home for those with Alzheimers.
1 - 5 TOP prospects for basically Teixeira whose contract is up after next year, and 36 year old Ron Mahay. You got hosed JS.
2 - 23 year old Davies for 33 year old Dotel who has an ERA near 4, yet is gonna be a closer or at least will pitch in crucial situations. I don’t disagree with trading Davies, but for Dotel? Davies will be pitching in the MLs when Dotel is being fitted for dentures.
3 - JoJo AND Escobar for Arroyo? I know this is not being listed as a done deal yet, but for JS to even consider that shows that he is going to lose the “genius” label he used to have. Not in my mind, but in the minds of others. I wouldn’t trade Escobar period, not even straight up for Arroyo. JS is nearing retirement and is emptying the farm system of all top prospects in hopes of going to a WS before he leaves the premises.
4 - Can’t comment on Startup and Ledezma for Ring because I don’t know Startup or Ring. Ledezma for a dozen new balls would be a good trade. Or even used balls for that matter. I know Startup had okay numbers, but don’t know how highly regarded a prospect he is. I am about tolook up Ring’s numbers.
If the Braves win the next 2 World Series, then I will get the crow out of the freezer and heartily chomp down on it. Otherwise, to give up SO MUCH of the future for geezers and “Rent-A-Players” just doesn’t make sense.
By HP
July 31, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this
flange1: Trade for Matt Morris Click on this link
By WakeUp
July 31, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this
Before you guys all plan your parade (odd for a third-place team, by the way), consider a few facts (that the majority of the homers on this blog will disregard anyway): Tex is a career .260 hitter away from Texas. Yes, two-sixty. And, there’s a reason the Mets got rid of Dotel in the past, and why he was able to be unloaded now for a starter with problems of his own: lots of straight fastballs, and an unnerving tendency to crumble in pressure situations. So, all I’m saying is: you might want to go play some games first before you crown yourselves champs.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
July 31, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this
So, DOB, how does the 25 man roster shake out? I find it to be a bit ridiculous that Teixiera won’t be in Atlanta tonight. The deal was basically done yesterday. Will the same go for Dotel? When will he arrive? And, I don’t see Wickman getting traded because he would never make it through waivers. Also, I can’t say that I’m dissapointed that Escobar didn’t get traded. This kid should be the starting SS next year. I was all for trading either he or Salty but not both.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
July 31, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this
tvsportscaster I find that to be an odd observation. I have seen both Miller and Pena catch and seems Miller was much less capable behind the dish. Just too many balls get by him. Oh well, neither of the two are Charles Johnson.
By NoOrdinaryRabbit
July 31, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this
So we turned Macay McBride and Will Startup in to Royce Ring? Not sure I see JS’s logic in that one.
By Bob
July 31, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this
DirtyDawg,
Get real. Tex missed 27 games and still has better numbers than our 1st basemen. He also is batting 297. He is also gold glover. Come on, it is fair to disagree with the trade but if you are going to start making comparisons at least do it fairly. Jeeez
By Dru
July 31, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this
DirtyDawg,
Tex’s total HRs and RBIs are lower than normal because he missed 27 games on the DL this year.
By Rose Coloured Eyeballs
July 31, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this
Enjoy Tex since there’s ZERO chance of him staying in Atlanta, Mahay you could pick up anywhere on the street, make sure those few fans that actually turn out for a Braves Game park far away from the outfield wall……Even if you make the Playoffs you southern inbred morons won’t buy a ticket
By Marty
July 31, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this
WakeUp, no one’s crowning ourselves the champs yet. I find a statement like that odd coming from a Mets fan, though, since most of those that I have heard from have been sure by May for the past 5 years or so that they would be on top at the end of the season.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
July 31, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this
DirtyDawg, Tex missed 27 games due to injury earlier in the year. That is the reason for the “similar” numbers. Tex is a huge upgrade over what we currently have at 1B and anyone who doesn’t see that apparently has no clue what real baseball talent is.
By Anders
July 31, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this
Hey Paladin - Sounds like your Braves picked up to Met throw away trolls today - Good luck with sloppy seconds!
By Paladin
July 31, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this
Hammer’d the Braves Any deal that gets rid of Ledezma is a good deal. As a Dawg I hate to see Startup go, but as I told someone else: This is baseball; it’s not puppy love.
I have read a lot today about this and that player’s “track record”. Well, JS has a pretty good track record of his own. And we can beech n’ complain all we want but he’s the one making the decisions. And until all of this irons out(and it may take a season or two)I say Put our trust in God, ‘cause our @$$es belong to JS. And I think he will take us to the promised land.
By TexasBrave
July 31, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this
One other thought on Royce Ring since DOB said that JS is shopping Wicky. Ring could be waiting down at AAA until JS can trade Big Bob for a starter.
Just a thought! ;)
By BG
July 31, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this
Dirty Dawg —
Comparing Tex with ATL’s overall 1B production isn’t quite fair since Tex missed a chunk of games (about 25 or so) with a quad stain. So, HR & RBI totals are skewed. Avg, OBP, SLG are better comparisons — and Tex is a big improvement.
One slight worry: Tex has not been hitting terribly well (by the standards of his career) since coming off the DL after the All-star game. He only has 1 HR & 8 RBI since the break (avg = .281 & slg = .422).
By Roll Tide
July 31, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this
DOB, Thanks for all you do keeping us up to date on all the Braves rumors.
Do you think that the Braves might try and add Thorman to the Wickman package for a trade somewhere? Also, will Ring be an immediate fixture in the bullpen, or will he be sent to the minors first?
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this
Not so sure about this re-signing Tex unless he just wanted to be traded. Rangers Offered $140MM To Teixeira The Rangers made a legitimate offer to first baseman Mark Teixeira before trading him. Apparently they offered him an eight-year, $140MM package. That’s an average annual value of $17.5MM. A little light, but not a bad starting point.
But since the deal covered the 2008 season and Teixeira would’ve gotten around $14MM regardless, it was really a seven-year, $126MM offer - same as Barry Zito’s contract. $18MM a year for Teixeira sounds reasonable, but who knows how it will seem a year from now? He might be a $22MM player at that point. Teixeira will, of course, hit the open market after the 2008 season.
By Ron Roberts
July 31, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this
NO CHOP ZONE… psst, Pedro had a 6.45 ERA against Atlanta in 2006.
Oh, and need I mention that we went 6-3 against ya the first half of the season before we added mark Teixeira and Octavio Dotel?
Let me know when you upgrade your team enough to concern us, okay?
I got three of your 4 1/2 games already in another 6-3 run against the Mets in our last 9 games.
By flange1
July 31, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this
HP,
Thanks for the link.
That deal makes no sense for the Pirates! I guess it is a salary dump for the Giants? I don’t know! That deal and the Wheeler for Wiggenton deal are the 2 real head scratchers for me anyway..
Bigboi, where are you hearing this Sosa crapola? He has NEVER been mentioned to the Braves in anything that I have seen except for your posts on this blog. Can you give us a link?
Anders, WOW you sure are smart! Most Mets fans on this blog are real smart too! be careful that Lew and Paladin don’t cross you and stay away from the SJA, he will clean your clock in about 3 sentences…….
By RIP SaltyWoody
July 31, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this
DOB No need for apologies. I just thought it would be sweet if that guy really had rung up 70 k’s in 5 1/3 innings. Figured it was a formatting issue. Good thing it didn’t change his name to Brian McCann or something.
What would you say the likelihood of Wickman still being traded is? I mean, with the moves the Braves have just made, they sure as heck have a bevvy of guys in the bullpen now.
Certainly could afford to send Wickie elsewhere if it meant getting a starter back.
Would he really clear waivers?
By Lew
July 31, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this
BigBoi-We didn’t get Sosa. Nobody wanted him. Plug Harris in at second? Instead of Johnson or Escobar? Dude, did you get enough sleep last night? You’re damn well not thinking straight if you think any of that makes a bit of sense.
By Paladin
July 31, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this
KC If you haven’t figured it out for yourself: Anders is a Mut troll.
By WakeUp
July 31, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this
Marty - Honestly, this isn’t trash talk—I’m just saying that there’s a tendency on this blog to exaggerate incredibly. Yes, Tex is a good, solid player, and he’s miles better than what you had a first base. But listening to this blog, you’d think he was Babe Ruth. He’s not—he can be pitched to, especially away from Arlington. And Dotel is by no means a lights-out pitcher, and he does have a fragile arm/psyche. Two good pickups with high potential, but nowhere near enough to lock down the division or wild card.
By GSU-Lee
July 31, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this
Anders, What? Are you serious? You guys are already scared and you know it. we got the talent to beat you guys, and yoiu guys got Joe Bla…no…oh but you did get Jon Gar…no not that one either…ah but at least you got Luis castillo, yet another latino for Minaya’s Los Mets. Don’t be surpised when you guys are ina battle for the wild card after we sail passed you.
By southern inbred moron
July 31, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this
Rose Coloured Eyeballs Your just jealous because your sister is ugly even when you have your beer goggles on.
By The Grinch
July 31, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this
Ok, I’m back again. Y’all, it’s finally starting to truly settle in now the very, very most important thing about all this…No more Kyle Freakin’ Davies!!!! Oh my GOD what a fantastic feeling; they’re finally all gone! Reitsma, Remmlinger, Kolb, Redman, Sosa and now Davies! No more Bobby pets that have no business pitching above a local girl’s softball team to blow big games for us! If we can just get someone to take Orr and Woodward…
By robdawg06
July 31, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this
I wouldn’t trade Yunel Escobar for 3 Bronson Arroyo’s ! Just because he dominated us last time we played them isn’t a reason to get him. You have to look at his overall performances this year. He’s below average. You heard it right here. Escobar will be another Arod type 5 - tool player barring injury.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this
If you feel the ground shaking….its coming from NY were the MUTS fans are trembling in fear!!!!!
You know that creepy feeling you get when you walk up a long darkend stairway at night and it feels like someone is behind you?…..well….
THE METS DO NOW!!!!!!!!!!
By Bob, Journalist
July 31, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this
In 24 appearances, Dotel is 11-3 in save opportunities, 3.91 ERA and .264 AVG … while there are those who will adjust for DH, it shouldn’t be that much difference for top relievers and closers since in the NL, pinch hitters are typically used instead of pitchers when such folks are pitching … he ain’t what he once was but he still has about a 3 to 1 strikeout/walk ratio.
What was the reason for there being 5 of our guys traded to Texas instead of 4?
By bravesfan
July 31, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this
DOB what is the lineup?
By Marty
July 31, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this
How can anyone be unhappy with getting rid of a guy with a 6.15 ERA in 200 career innings? Of course I speak of Davies, and to me, the best part of that trade was that I will never again have to see Kyle start the bottom of the first with a 3+ run lead by walking the first two batters and going 3-0 on the next guy.
By Paladin
July 31, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this
Oh, I forgot KC. Like most trolls, he is desperate to be talked to.
Lew Buddy, I know you have done yeoman-type duty today, but could you take care of the trolls while I take my dinner break? Not much out there to work up a sweat over. Just Anders.
By Ron
July 31, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this
Dissapointing not getting Arroyo or somebody to start!!! I cant believe some here are upset about giving up Escobar, I think he will be good,BUT JS has traded away ALOT of good young talent to win now, and we do still have Renteria here!!! Just say we dont get Arroyo or a good starter and John Smoltz would be good to start 2 games in a 7 game series!!! Just say we get to the World Series here is how it would look: Game 1- Smoltz, Game 2- Hudson, Game 3- James, Game 4- Carlyle, Game 5- Smoltz, Game 6- Hudson, Game 7 James!!! Even if we had to give up Escobar, would it not look better IF we had Arroyo!!! Here it is IF we had Arroyo: Game 1- Smoltz, Game 2- Hudson, Game 3- Arroyo, Game 4- James, Game 5- Smoltz, Game 6- Hudson, Game 7- Arroyo!!! And remember that Arroyo pitched for the Red Sox back in 2004 when they won the World Series!!! I cant believe some love the Tex deal and hate this deal!!! Some of yall make me sick!!! I would MUCH rather have Arroyo in Game 7 than James!!! Arroyo has a Championship ring on his finger, James aint got s** on his finger!!! It is vital for us to get a Starter, and JS dropped the DAMN ball!!! Yeah we may be able to get a guy off waivers, but SOOOO many teams block other guys, just to be blocking them!!! JS I will be glad when your sorry a* retires IF you dont get us a good Starter!!! Starting Pitching was a BIGGER need than 1st Base!!! Hope you enjoy Trying to sign Tex in 2009 JS, OH wait you probably aint gonna be here to try to sign him!!! Great JS, JUST FREAKIN GREAT!!!
By TheSouthernJackAss
July 31, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this
This is absolutely hilarious—all the Metsuckers are here now hiding behind various lame@$$ cognomens, while trying to discount the trades made by the Braves today, and to snoop for info…just like ol’ “WakeUp” there…
WakeUp—how about waiting ‘till your team wins 14 straight division titles before you come in here runnin’ your piehole about what the Braves need to do to win…
Word on the street has it that the Mets are contemplating shaving their heads, and their @$$e$ again…
By Anders
July 31, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this
Paladin - I lost all respect for you turning me in to KC. Did you read his blog? The Braves are on par with the Red Sox? Dude, you need to move away from guys like that.Kills your rep, assuming you have one.
Yesterday I was getting ripped for coming down on Wickman- Today Chop Nation wants The Grand Wizard of The Ted to trade him. Make up your mind folks! I’m sure JS will talk the Twins into taking Fatman for Santana. You guys are starting to sound as dillusional as yankee fans.
By Marty
July 31, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this
Rose Coloured Eyeballs, unless you’re British, you should probably learn how to spell “colored.” Oh, and you should shut the hell up.
By Chris
July 31, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this
If 1 more person talks about moving Escobar to CF, the firing squad needs to be brought out. Immediately.
Maybe we could try McCann at 2nd while we’re at it…
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
July 31, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this
For the Mets fans who are all of a sudden “gracing” us with their presence I want to say this. If Dotel is such garbage then why were the Mets trying to get him? If the Mets are so confident about their team, they why were they trying to get Carlos Silva and Ken Griffey? And, you guys do realize that Pedro isn’t scheduled to be back with the big team until the end of August. Do you guys honestly feel confidence in Oliver Perez and Jorge Sosa? Do you really think El Duque can hold up and not make yet another trip to the DL?
I’m not saying the Braves will win the East but you guys know that our chances just got a lot better.
By BravesFanInColorado
July 31, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this
Wakeup…might want to check your facts on Tex before posting he has a career .260 average. Besides having a .283 career average, his other career numbers are .368 OBP, .533 SLG and .901 OPS.
He brings much more to the table than Thorman or Franco, even though Franco was playing fairly well since he came back.
Nobody is crowning the Braves champs. There are many games to be played, and who knows what will happen.
By Ron
July 31, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this
Which I am not saying I want Escobar to be traded for Arroyo, but since JS traded away alot for three relievers, and a 1st baseman he might as well trade for A Good Starter since he is trying to go for it all!!! Makes NO sense WHATSOEVER that he did not get a trade done for a Good Starter!!! And Arroyo is a Good Starter!!! He is MUCH better than what his stats say he is!!!
By Roll Tide
July 31, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this
Why are people upset about not getting Arroyo. While I am happy that JS made the trades he made, I am glad that Escobar was not traded. Arroyo is not having a great year, plus here soon I think that Jo-Jo will turn it around. Smoltz, Hudson, and James are consistent, and Carlyle has shown that he can go the distance during games.
Also, does anyone think that Dotel might start a few games this year. He started his career with a few starts. Just an idea to ponder.
By Marty
July 31, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this
WakeUp — You’re definitely right that the Braves still have to get off their butts and start winning some games. While Teixeira and Dotel should help them do that, the team frankly already good enough to win a lot more games than it has so far. I think that the most valuable thing about these trades may be that it signals, both to the fans AND the players themselves, that management is behind them and that they really have a shot. Maybe with a little more of that old swagger back, the Braves will start winning the games they have been, quite simply, finding a way to lose so far this year.
By WakeUp
July 31, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this
SJA - 14 division titles….
and how many World Series again? And thanks for letting me know that any attempt at earnest baseball discussion here is seen as “running your piehole” (way to mix those metaphors, by the way). My advice for you—take the “Southern” out of your title. You’re a jackass that knows no boundaries.
By Kieran, Long Island Brave Fan
July 31, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this
I would imagine the Braves didnt get morris because of Financial Constrainnts he’s owed 10 million next year and the Pirates picked up the entire contract. Plus he’s average at best, not a guy you want to commit to financially, especially when you have to possibly begin discussions on long term deals with Tex and Andruw very soon.
I’m not Sold on Dotel. He’s now on hes 6th team and he hasn’t had any sustained success as a closer. Davies showed glimses of being a quality major league pitcher, the dude is only 24!
Royce ring was a nice subtle move, Walks are a serious concern with the once top prospect traded to the Mets for Robby Alomar. It should take some pressure off of Mahay, whose career numbers are NOT good. take a look on www.baseball-reference.com
By Lew
July 31, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this
Hey all you Mets’ Trolls-Guess what? The Mets won’t win the division today. They won’t win it tomorrow, either. Or the day after, either and in reality, not at all. Just who are you trying to convince with your derogatory proclamations of the Braves hopelessness? You really must be scared witless with the Braves additions and your loss of “Gee, I can’t hit a curveball” Beltran. Keep coming over and trying to convince us. Sure, we’ll listen, won’t we? If you were really that confident, you’d be on a Mets’ blog offering each other oral sex in your excitement over your impending “two in a row” (exactly one seventh of OUR streak). Go away to your own bridge Little Trolls. You’re on a fruitless quest here.
By Anders
July 31, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this
Paladin - I’m starting to think you really do like me. You keep telling all your friends about me.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this
METS fans are LOSERS
You know how I know?….
Only a LOSER braggs about winning ONCE out of 18 years!!!!!!
Seriously, One Division title in 18 years and you guys constantly knock Braves and their fans who won an UNPRECEDENTED 14 Straight!
And about to be 15 out of 16!
By TheSouthernJackAss
July 31, 2007 6:06 PM | Link to this
Bob, Journalist—the fifth man was included in the Teixeira deal as added assurance because Texas was concerned about Harrison’s shoulder…
By GermanBravesFan
July 31, 2007 6:06 PM | Link to this
WOW… I am back in the homeland and just read everything about the two trades. Way to go JS!!!!
DOB: one question, though… will the Braves even have a remote chance now to re-sign Andruw after this year, or will Texeira’s possible raise through arbitration make it impossible? Any rumors that Liberty Media may raise payroll enough to keep both, Texeira AND Andruw? How great would that be???
By WakeUp
July 31, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this
Marty - thanks for the serious answer. I agree with a lot of what you have to say in terms of sending a signal to your team, and that’s worth a lot. I think the other side of the coin is that, for the Mets fans, a lot of us are glad to see that we didn’t ship away the future in players like Milledge, Humbrey, F. Martinez, and others for mediocre talent in return. Would we have liked a big deal? Sure—but not at the expense of gutting the farm, and especially for the talent that was available.
By The Blogger formerly known as Saltywoody
July 31, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this
VERY IMPORTANT
We need nicknames for our new stud relievers.
What the heck will Bobby do with “Octavio Dotel?” Octagon? Dotey?
And what the heck will he call Royce Ring? Roycey? Royce-Cakes? Ringmaster? Ring Finger? Ringy?
We need answers on this stuff fast.
Why aren’t our loyal reporters covering the important stuff? DOB/Bowman/Carrol are all covering vital issues like when Tex will play first and who will be called up? Baloney. We need to know the nicknames Bobby has in mind STAT.
:)
P.S. Will “Tex” stay “Tex?” Or will it be “Texy?”
PPS WE GOT TEX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Man, I love being able to say that.
By MetsFan
July 31, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this
LEW: thanks for just conceding that we’re about to win our 2nd division title in a row. That meant a lot to us.
By Anders
July 31, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this
Chase - Umm how should I say this? Oh yeah, nobody cares!
By Chase
July 31, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this
HEY WakeUP
How many WOrld Series Titles does your pathetic team have in the past 18 years?
ZERO!!!!!!!!!
Typical MUTS fan grasping at straws to try and criticize the BRAVES.
The fact is…Success breeds ENVY…and MUTS’ fans ENVY the BRAVES and their fans!
By robdawg06
July 31, 2007 6:11 PM | Link to this
Chris, I only said move Escobar to the OF in place of Andruw because why would you want a .300 hitter like Escobar on the bench and a .200 hitter like Andruw starting ? Andruw needs to shape up fast or sit on the bench where his numbers show he belongs.
By David O'Brien
July 31, 2007 6:11 PM | Link to this
Ron, it makes NO SENSE that he didn’t trade for a good starter, huh? Well, how ‘bout the fact that only ONE good starter was even traded, and that’s Matt Morris, not exactly a Cy Young winner.
So with all the teams looking for pitching and only one starter traded, the Braves should have, what, held a gun to someone’s head and made them trade Arroyo?
Trade Escobar for him? Are you nuts? Seriously. Why not just trade Escobar AND Lillibridge for a starter and not worry about shortstop for the coming five years?
Wow, can’t believe you’re actually complaining. All the moves they made, and you’re still complaining.
By The Blogger formerly known as Saltywoody
July 31, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this
NOTE ON ROYCE RING As Kieran just pointed out, I think the Royce Ring move was a VERY nice, subtle move.
The guy hasn’t been amazing or anything…but we weren’t going to get anything for Ledezma and he probably wouldn’t have cleared waivers so we could option him.
Ring’s only 26 and a southpaw and throws pretty hard (I think I read that somewhere). If he can take a little pressure off Mahay and develop over the next year or two, this is a great move. Way better than having nothing to show for Ledezma.
By Anders
July 31, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this
Hey Lew and Paladin - You guys still live on Brokeback Mountain? Well I’m off to watch my first place Mets. Maybe I’ll watch a video Of my NY Rangers slapping those Thrashers around just to get warmed up - Peace out Hotlanta!
By TheSouthernJackAss
July 31, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this
WakeUp—why don’t you try taking the “Southern” out of my title?…you wouldn’t be the first little Pi$$ant that made that mistake…
By Ron Roberts
July 31, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this
Wakeup… how’d the Mets do in the playoffs last year?
By Dave
July 31, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this
Will Startup gone? Chad Paronto demoted? For Royce Ring??? Why? Why??? Do Dotel and Teixeira mean we can get away with doing things this stupid??? And where is Brayan Pena?
By Eric from MO
July 31, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this
I have been at work today and just started reading the posts. Are you people crazy? Look I too would of liked Arroyo but we got the best hitter and 2 of the best relievers that got traded. You cant have everything. Now that we traded Andrus we have to keep Escobar because after next season Renteria will be gone and we will need a shortstop.
By Chase
July 31, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this
LEW, PALADIN, SJA, I’m with you guys
Doesn’t it get old having to fight off these MUTS TROLLS.
Like I said earlier, trying to explain baseball rationally to them is like trying to explain colors to a person who was born blind and deaf!
By JasonInMaine
July 31, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this
I feel like the spoiled kid at Christmas…all of the excitement and anticipation…first present opened…boom - exactly what you always wanted…2nd gift…great present…and then it is over…
I still like the moves…am a little surprsed we gave up 5 players without getting Wilson…
I really thought JS would land a starter of some sort even if not a Garland type…someone that eat some innings at the back-end…jo-jo will be good…just not this year while trying to win a pennant…
But, all in all…a great Chrstmas.
Regards,
Jason
By Marty
July 31, 2007 6:19 PM |