AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2007 > August > 01 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USBraves Nation and MIB abuzz over Tex
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Who’d have thought the Braves/Man In Black blog roundtable — we ain’t the Algonquin, but we have BBQ and Cash, Johnny — would be buzzing like this on Aug. 1, with the Braves in third place in the NL East, 3-1/2 games behind the dastardly Mets and right behind the Phillies?
(Haven’t the Phils always shot themselves in the collective foot and fallen through clubhouse fractures by now?)
But here we are, with more anticipation than any time since the week before spring training. Maybe even more anticipation now than there was then, and if you remember there was an awful lot back in February as we headed for Dark Star in Florida.
Of course, the current buzz is centered around a big fella with a little nickname, “Tex.” Mark “Tex” Teixeira has Braves Nation sticking out its chest and saying, “Bring it on.” That and the fact the Braves made a couple of moves to shore up their ‘pen.
But there’s work to be done, folks. Much work on the field, by a Braves team that’s been maddeningly inconsistent and still lacks depth at the back of its rotation. Not saying they don’t have enough pitching to win the division, because I think they do. But they’re going to need good work from Buddy Carlyle and from either Jo-Jo Reyes, or Lance Cormier, or someone in the No. 5 hole.
Once they get to the playoffs, the rotation depth isn’t a concern. Three’s enough, and Smoltz-Hudson-Chuck at their best, or close, is enough, when coupled with this offense and what should be an improved bullpen, to win any postseason series. Really.
But they gotta get there first. And those Mets are not going to go quietly, rest assured. They’ve got Pedro coming back, and even with a surgically repaired wing the future Hall of Famer is not to be taken lightly. At least not until we see what he’s got left in that slender, once-dynamic arm.
The Braves roll out their newly accessorized lineup tonight: Tex will presumably bat cleanup (if Andruw is in the cleanup spot, there might be fans marching on the stadium with torches), and the Braves will set a course for the top of the division standings, then a spot in the postseason.
They’ve got two months to get there, but they hope it doesn’t take that long to get back to first pace. In fact, to the Braves, next week’s three-game series in NYC is probably looking like a pretty good time and place to make a statement and maybe even overtake those Mets.
But for now, they’ve got five games left on this homestand, five games to show the home fans that Tex in the middle of the lineup, hitting behind Chipper Jones, can help make this the best Braves lineup in a long, long time.
He arrives at an opportune time, for more reasons than you’re probably aware. Braves are facing Woody Williams tomorrow, and old Woody has always pitched well against the Bravos. He’s 4-1 with a 2.21 ERA in eight career starts against the Braves, and the Jones Boys are a combined 6-for-47 with two homers against him.
Chipper is 2-for-23 with a homer against him, the rare pitcher who’s dominated Hoss.
And guess which Braves hitter has fared best against Williams, albeit in limited opportunities? That’d be your new boy, Tex. Teixeira is 3-for-6 with a homer off Williams, who knows what a lot of American League pitchers have learned in five years: Mark Teixeira can flat-out rake.
But he’d better heat up to fit in here: If Teixeira takes a look at some recent, gaudy Braves hitting totals, he’ll quickly realize everything ain’t bigger in Texas. At least not July batting averages and other offensive totals.
Most Braves lineup regulars are wielding hot bats at the same time. In fact, Teixeira might just be the “coldest” hitter in the lineup, at this moment, with the exception of Andruw Jones, and even Andruw is still popping a few long balls and driving in runs while hitting below his weight (his .215 average remains the NL’s lowest among lineup regulars, while Chipper’s .340 and Edgar’s .337 rank second and third in the NL behind Floriday’s Hanley Ramirez).
(Speaking of Chipper and Edgar, who’s the team MVP right now? The longer Chipper stays healthy, the more I’d lean toward him. But right now, I’d probably still vote for Edgar, based on his steady play throughout the season. Again, that might change in another month if Chipper stays healthy. And I’ll bet you this: Chipper will finish in the top five in the NL MVP voting, long as he doesn’t miss many games between now and the end of the season. I’ll even suggest that if the Braves win the division, he’ll finish in the top three.)
OK, anyway, back to the Braves afire at the plate. I can’t recall seeing so many guys this hot simultaneously on a team I’ve covered, other than for a two-week period last season after the All-Star break. But we’re talking about a month or more for most of these guys now.
Get a load of these streaks:
Kelly Johnson has hit .358 (24-for-67) with four doubles, three triples, four homers, 16 RBIs and a 1.114 OPS in his past 21 games. And to think, there were some here suggesting he be benched not long ago. He’s hit .291 overall.
Jeff Francoeur has hit .370 (44-for-119) with nine doubles, four homers, 23 RBIs and a .402 OBP in his past 29 games. He’s hitting .300 this season. (Where are the two guys who were convincing each other last week during their late-night blogging session that Francoeur was a mediocre player and that his reduced homers were somehow the most important stat?)
Chipper Jones has hit .381 (59-for-155) with 15 extra-base hits, 29 RBIs, 27 walks, 20 strikeouts and a .467 OBP in 41 games since returning from the DL. He ranks. He’s second in the NL in average, second in OBP, fourth in slugging.
Edgar Renteria has hit .363 (66-for-182) with 13 doubles, two homers and 23 RBIs in his past 44 games, with a .408 OBP and eight steals in eight attempts.
Yunel Escobar has hit .314 (44-for-140) with nine doubles, a homer and 12 RBIs in 44 major league games, showing enough talent and confidence to lead the Braves to make an unspoken declaration, it would seem: “In Yunel we trust, trade the rest of them.”
Willie Harris seems to have snapped out of his first Braves slump, batting .351 (13-for-37) with three doubles, two triples and seven RBIs in his past seven games, beginning with his 6-for-6, 6-RBI game-of-a-lifetime.
Matt Diaz has hit .358 (29-for-81) with seven doubles and a homer since June 14. No, he doesn’t hit for much power and he ain’t particularly artistic, but the dude keeps hitting, doesn’t he? Platoon of him and Harris is working the way platoons are supposed to work.
Andruw Jones Yes, he seems to have regressed some lately after an encouraging month. And he’s hit just .200 (60-for-300) (how’ that for symmetry?) since May 2, and only .189 at home for the season.
But in his past 30 games he’s hit .256 with nine homers, 27 RBIs and a .355 OBP.
Mark Teixeira spent a month on the DL for a pulled quadriceps, and since returning he hit .281 (18-for-64) with six doubles, a homer and eight RBIs in 17 games. I told you, compared to some in this lineup he’s been relatively cold.
However, no one expects that to continue. In his 22 games before the DL, Teixeira hit .347 with seven homers, 23 RBIs, a .479 OBP and .720 slugging percentage.
As I said, dude can rake. It’ll be interesting to see if there’s any adjustment period required in his move to the NL. With the advent of interleague play, I don’t think that’s the big deal it once was. But we’ll see.
Oh, and by the way, Julio Franco was 8-for-24 (.333) with three doubles and five RBIs in his past seven games. He’s going to lose his starting spot, but it’ll be interesting to see if the Braves keep him to pinch-hit and back up Teixeira.
He’s already cleared waivers once. The same can’t be said for Scott Thorman, and I don’t know if the Braves are willing to lose the young Thor to a waiver claim. He’s not met expectations, obviously, but he’s still got a lot of power and he’s still young.
Chris Woodward seems, to many, the obvious candidate to be designated for assignment. But Bobby likes those veterans who play a lot of positions, so I don’t know if that’ll happen.
The’ve got to make two moves today to add two relievers, Octavio Dotel and Ron Mahay. I’m betting they send out one position player and one pitcher, and go with 12 pitchers again. But I could be wrong. Just can’t see two more relievers they can drop without losing someone to waivers.
Home folks are pleased: After probably feeling slighted for much of the season, Turner Field fans are finally seeing the Braves do some of their best hitting at home, instead of saving all the fireworks for the road.
The Braves still lead the NL with a .286 road average, but they’re out of the basement and all the way to eighth in the NL in home average with their surge over the past 14 home games (9-5).
They’ve hit .329 with a 3.05 ERA in that span, including a .335 average and 90 runs in the past 13 home games.
Before June 24, the Braves wre 19-21 with an anemic .237 team batting average and 145 runs in 40 home games, while posting a 4.13 RA in that span.
Alright, time to get to the park. I’ll leave you with a tribute to the great Hank Williams by Dave Alvin, who did the song with his old band, The Blasters.
”LONG WHITE CADILLAC” by Dave Alvin
Night wolves moan
The winter hills are black
I’m all alone
Sitting in the back
Of a long white Cadillac
Headlights shine
Highway fades to black
I’ll take my time
In a long white Cadillac
In a long white Cadillac
Sometime I blame it on a woman
Why my achin’ heart bleeds
Sometimes I blame it on the money
Sometimes I blame it on me
Train whistle cries
Lost on its own track
I’ll close my eyes
I’m never coming back
In a long white Cadillac
Night wolves moan
The winter hills are black
I’m all alone
Sitting in the back
Of a long white Cadillac
One time I had all that I wanted
But it just skipped through my hands
One time I sang away the sorrow
One time I took it like a man
Headlights shine
Highway fades to black
It’s my last ride
I’m never coming back
In a long white Cadillac
Comments
By NCBravesFan
August 1, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this
Not first!
By House
August 1, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this
So, DOB, do you like the gamelog feature on baseball-reference.com?
Thanks for the post.
By The Blogger formerly known as Saltywoody
August 1, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this
**You add Tex to this lineup and it’s going to be unbelievable.”
I can’t imagine how much pressure having Tex in the lineup adding runs that way, and Dotel/Mahay/Ring in the pen saving runs…is going to take off everyone else.
JS did some great things.
And good point about Frenchy, DOB.
Last year, people were clamoring about Frenchy being too devoted to the long ball. This year, he learns some plate discipline and he’s being accused of having lost his power. Frankly, I’ll take 9 of him on my team…well, that is except in this case, where our lineup (1 all the way through 8) is just awesome.
I’m a very happy Braves fan right now.
By daniel
August 1, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this
DOB Since the Braves have 2 games off in the next 2 weeks, and a huge road trip planned, do you think Bobby will stick with the rotation or skip the end of the rotation to keep the front-end starters on regular rest? Since we are in the heat of a pennant race, I was just curious to see how Cox would handle the staff.
By dannycardwell
August 1, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this
things look really good now. this might be the year.
By ssiscribe
August 1, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this
For the players, for management and for the denizens of Braves Nation, one of the most interesting, most exciting, most pressure-packed times in the long and storied history of this franchise begins right now.
(That sounds like a hell of a lot of hyperbole, but I don’t think it is, and I always try to steer away from building up something to be more than it really is. But in this case, I think what I said is true).
Interesting, to see if the Braves’ deals resonate on the field the way many of us believe they will. Exciting, because the Braves are now on the very short list of teams with a realistic shot of winning the World Series. Pressure-packed, because the Braves have to get it done on the field.
The Mets, the Phillies and the folks chasing the wild card won’t go away simply because the Braves loaded for bear and told the world they believe their time is now.
But still, it’s been quite a 48 hours for this franchise. This is the business-like Braves — who always say the right things and never push the envelope — ripping off the jacket and tie, pushing down the walls of the cube, jumping up on the desk and screaming for all the world to hear, “we are going to do everything we can to win the World Series this year!”
A strong, strong statement from John Schuerholz and Co. upstairs. Again, it’s up to the team on the field to make it happen. It will be fascinating to watch it unfold during the next 61 days.
Thanks much for the kudos from the previous blog. Guess I’m trying to get my game in shape for the pennant race, that’s all. And Lew, I’m looking at my Wurlitzer right now. Hopefully, ol’ AJ will be hitting fifth tonight, behind the new sheriff in town.
The Scribe abides.
—30—
By Steve in DC
August 1, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Hey, did anyone see Teixeira making the rounds through the dugout last night, and making his way down to Scott Thorman at the end of the bench?
“Hi, I’m new first-baseman Mark Teixeira. I just got here from Texas”
“Hi, I’m…uh….(mumble something)-baseman Scott Thorman. Sit here, I was just getting up to catch my plane to Richmond.”
Brant Sanderlin, the best sports photog the AJC has, managed to capture that moment for posterity…was in the gallery from the game. I don’t know about you guys, but I definitely cringed!
http://whiteknuckledwanderer.blogspot.com/2007/08/and-yooouuu-are.html
By Greg
August 1, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
DOB:
Thanks for the new blog. Quick question, I noticed last night that AJ has 60-some RBI. Is this just a matter of batting cleanup most of the year, or has he had a better year than we thought? If you put a .215 hitter with little power at cleanup would he have a lot of RBI just because there are a lot of opportunities? How many RBI should a good cleanup hitter have at this stage of the season?
By flange1
August 1, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Thanks for the new blog and all of your hard work yesterday!
A quick question, how did the clubhouse react to getiing new players and losing some exsiting guys? I have heard how players were happy to get Tex, but it has to be hard for the BMac’s and Frenchy’s to see a guy like Kyle Davies gone and possibly Thorman today. I know it is a business blah blah, but it still must be a bit difficult to see your friend get traded!
Thanks
By Ron H
August 1, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
i’d like to see stats for pitchers, too. it seems as though the starting rotation 1-4 has been fairly consistent in the past month or so. sure, we’ve had some bad games, but it really looks like Carlyle and James have stabilized a bit.
Good luck and going to watch the game tonight with interest!
goooo braves!
By newbie
August 1, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this
DOB, et. al.—-
I too heard BC mention another trade afoot in the moments before the deadline in the pregame yesterday. Any word on what he was referring to? Is that Wickman for Farnsworth report out of NYC as ludicrous and unnecessary as it sounds? Or was something afoot with Thorman?
As always, any insight is appreciated…
By NCBravesFan
August 1, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this
Well dang, I was first. Whoodathunkit?
A shout out to DOB for working so hard after coming off the West Coast trip. Nice work - now grab some winks.
My wishes for the rest of the season -
Smoltz holds up and we get serviceable pitching out of the 4/5 hole.
Andruw can hit .250 down the stretch.
If those two things happen, I’ll take my chances with this team going into the postseason.
By Bob
August 1, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the update Dave. Looking forward to the rest of this season. Just don’t burn the press box up tonight when Tex slams one.
By The Blogger formerly known as Saltywoody
August 1, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this
MISGIVINGS ABOUT TEX?
Not saying I have any. In fact, I couldn’t be happier about him.
However, I have a friend who worked for the Dallas Morning News for a long time and knew Tex somewhat from doing so. He mentioned that Tex is known to have a very big ego and to need it appeased very often.
Does any have any misgivings about Tex? If he does have a big ego, could it upset him to be part of such a great team and not the centerpiece of it? Will he feel like he’s in Chipper/Andruw/Smotlz/Huddie’s shadows?
Or, on the other hand, does this play exactly into that ego? Does he become the franchise savior and revel in it? Does he love walking right in, hitting cleanup, and hopefully returning the Braves to the playoffs?
Interested to hear what everyone thinks the dynamic will be.
Also, does Tex’s/Dotel’s presence upset any current Braves? Does Andruw feel slighted being bumped or challenged and energize and as if the pressure’s being taken off? Does Wickman feel like the Braves have lost confidence in him, or that he now has some help?
Don’t mean to put any negative light on all of this, because I’m elated to have these kinds of things to talk about…but I AM interested in how it’ll all play out.
Again, great Blog DOB.
By Dylan w/o the dead
August 1, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this
Anyone get the feeling the that BC and JS are set on leaving the club after next season and want to give themselves a chance to go out with a bang?
By MEB
August 1, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
abuzzzzzzzzzzzzzz, abuzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!!!
With a Braves victory and the Mets and Phillies losing there is indeed a buzz in the air. Great reporting DOB and I look forward to roster updates as the afternoon goes along.
Listened to XM MLB Homeplate early this morning and they replayed Game 6 of the 1999 Mets-Braves NL Series which the Braves won 10-9 when Andruw Jones was walked with the bases loaded by Kenny Rogers. Waiting in the bullpen to logically pitch to Andruw was one Octavio Dotel a hard throwing rookie who had pitched very well that season and post season. Bobby Valentine took a great deal of criticism over his decision to let Rogers pitch to Andruw. Well… as Skip Caray said “we’ll take it.” Great listening to Skip and Pete doing a great job behind the mic. Also nice to hear the chant echoing in the background.
GO BRAVES!!!
By Matty P
August 1, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
Seeing Teixiera all smiles in the dugout makes this Brave feel like some great things are coming our way and I hope I’m right.
By Sir Stealth
August 1, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this
Not that it really matters that much in the scheme of the Braves hopefully rolling into the playoffs (I’m a big supporter of all the trades), but I’ve been surprised how people don’t seem to talk about the 2003 team when they compare our outstanding lineup now to those of the past. Maybe its ‘cause with the decline of some of those players since, it seems too recent for it to have been as good as it was. Still, that was an unbelievable lineup, as this should be.
By David-ATL14
August 1, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the yeoman like efforts on the MIB Blog. Kudos and much appreciated.
By Ron
August 1, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
Tex has to bat Cleanup, he IS the perfect Cleanup hitter for US!!! Andruw needs to bat 8th behind KJ!!! DOB I would have to say that 2003 MIGHT be the Best offense EVER by the Atlanta Braves!!! But this one is a CLOSE 2nd!!!
DOB You said we would only need 3 Starters for the Postseason, but IF we get to the LCS OR World Series then we will probably need 1 more Starter!!! Smoltz will probably be able to only start 2 games each in the LCS and World Series(IF we get there)!!! Game 1- Smoltz, Game 2- Hudson, Game 3- James, Game 4- Unknown(I like Buddy, but NO way do I want him to start a Game in the World Series), Game 5- Smoltz, Game 6- Hudson, Game 7- James!!! That would be the Rotation IF everything works out good in the Division series and playoffs all together!!! That is IF it goes to a Game 7!!! But that Game 4 or whenever that 4th pitcher spot will be very important to US!!! Maybe we can OUTSLUG them in that game!!!
By Anders
August 1, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
For all those who advised me that the Braves hadn’t played to their potenetial just like the Mets I believe you can see that DOB’s numbers are similar to what I posted this morning. They’ve clearly hit well and still are 3.5 games back while the Mets offense has been anemic. The question is can they keep that up and will the Mets hitters ever wake up? That’s your race, plain and simple.
By Chase
August 1, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this
DOB
What roster moves will the Braves make today?
By Arkansas Hillbilly
August 1, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this
Anyone get the feeling the that BC and JS are set on leaving the club after next season and want to give themselves a chance to go out with a bang?
I don’t know about that, but I do get the feeling the lock on the safe has been picked and JS knows he will be allowed to work with a little more money, now. As a result, the Braves might be able to pay for some Major League-ready players instead of having to rely so heavily on the farm system, hence making some of the prospects a little more expendable. Does this theory sound feasible to anyone?
By ncscoots
August 1, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this
…Tex is known to have a very big ego and to need it appeased very often.
Shoot, that boy doesn’t know what ego IS until he steps up to Smoltz. I doubt that the vets in that clubhouse would suffer any prima-donna stuff in silence.
By Chase
August 1, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this
My GOD
The MUTS TROLLS are out already!
Would you guys PLEASE go to a NY paper and get ON YOUR OWN BLOG!
A wait, nobody talks about the MUTS in NY…It’s all about another team even in your own home town..THE YANKEES!
PATHETIC!
By jokurone
August 1, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this
Braves Win!Braves Win!Braves Win!Braves Win!Braves Win! it’s World Series time again. Rollin’ Rollin’ on the Chattahoochee.
By BossLady
August 1, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this
I think coming into the dugout with the big boys is exactly where TEX wants to be, among players of his caliber. Money draws money and power, egos, etc. He probably was to excited to be leaving a bunch of inferior players and a basement team that this is the Life to him. No one who has a big ego wants to run with the “little dogs” Big Dogs hang together. No one on the Braves tem should feel nervous about TEX but Thorman, because he failed so terribly. The ones that do their jobs need not fear anyone thus eveyone should be happy, now.
By Lew
August 1, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this
Dylan-No. I think what it means is that last season (when nothing significant was done) was due to financial constraints imposed by TW, who was selling the team. I think the activity this year shows LM is willing to put out some $$$ (Lord knows they saved enough in taxes doing this deal) and help improve the team. As far as losing all the minor league talent-Has anyone not read the posts the past couple of days about the farm system? The Braves are in a unique position among ML clubs-we have absolutely the best and deepest farm system out there. Y’all may not realize it, but JS barely scratched the surface of all the talent we have. Besides-we have a very young core of players (McCann, Francoeur, KJ, James, Yunel, etc) and won’t need many young players in the several years to come. Andruw will be replaced (believe me, we have outfield options-KJ, Diaz, Brandon Jones and Frenchy in center) and plenty of middle infield help still abounds. There will be an influx of available $$$ in the next few years through attrition of the big salaries of Andruw, Wicky, Hampton-well more than enough to acquire whatever pitching we will need. Add to this the extra $$ that LM is going to shell out (and these deals prove to me that they will). The lower farm system is LOADED with good arms, 3-4 years away. It still looks real good.
By Ron
August 1, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this
Damn I saw Tex last night in the dugout and he is a BIG ole dude!!! I knew he was big, but he made Thorman look SMALL!!! Maybe the Braves uniform makes him look bigger, I dont know but he is one of the Biggest dudes that I have seen in the Majors WITHOUT a question!!! He aint fat, so dont include David Ortiz or people like that!!! Actually he reminds me of Jason Giambi when he was in Oakland!!! Dont know if that is a good thing or not? But whatever, he is a HUGE dude, Surprised me of how big he is, I knew he was a BIG dude, just did not think he was that BIG!!!
By RRR
August 1, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this
I love how you keep mentioning “those two ultra-negative late night bloggers”. My only question right now is how in the world do so many of these “two” end up in the Braves Vent? Could the “Vent” editor be one of them? hmmmmmm GO BRAVES Bestest move in years, and had to be done!!!!!!!
By StingerSplash
August 1, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
DOB,
The Blasters! Yes! Now that we have “Tex” and “Hoss,” is there a “Duke” or “Little Joe” waiting in the wings? Oh, can you cue up some Jason and the Scorchers while you’re at it? Thanks.
By Novice Ned
August 1, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this
Little help please, but are all of the following relief pitchers truly free agents at the end of this season? Soriano, Wickman, Yates, Dotel and Mahay? Can we sign at least 3 of them to come back next season?
By Chase
August 1, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this
METS: Beltran is on DL (ab tear) Sosa being reduced to pitching in relief
Phillies: Utley out for a month, Victorino and Bourn now on DL
Both teams playing the Brewers and Cubs away before playing us.
The time is now!
The BRAVES will be in first place in 12 days or less!
By Big Kev
August 1, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this
so who ends up in the pen for the stretch run. I know that poranto was snt down, but he has been one of the better guys in the pen the last month, so he has to be coming back up.
paronto Ring Dotel Wickman Mahey Moylan Soriano Oscar V Yates
The only solution is to try and run wickman through waivers and see if someone else picks him up, keeping 7 relievers. Drop Woodward and keep a strange bench of thorman,franco,escobar,Diaz/Harris and corky/bpena ( I still dont get the corky miller call up )
Take what you think is going to be the better of paronto / ring / yates
By Anders
August 1, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
Chase - You’re a little behind today. I made my peace with Paladin, Lew and the others today on the previous log. They see the light in some banter back and forth between fans rather similar fans stroking each other all day. Try it - you might even find it entertaining. You’re right, we do have two teams in our city - that’s why we’re not afraif to confront the enemy - we’re used to it.
By Chase
August 1, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this
I say we just call this lineup
“THE DUKES OF HAZZARD” straight out!
By TheSouthernJackAss
August 1, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
Most of you won’t like what TheJackAss is about to say…but who cares?…
Some of you so-called, diehard Braves fans make me sick!…it’s pretty damned pathetic the way some of you are kissing-up to these ignorant Mets fans…licking their damn boots like a little, simple-minded puppy…makes TheJackAss want to spew that ‘projectile’ puke!…
They come in here day in, and day out, just to make you people look like fools…and you help them achieve their goal…No wonder the south lost the damn war!…
This is a damn Braves blog…but you’re allowing these morons to take control of, and dominate, the discussions here every single night…hour, after hour, after hour, post, after post, after post…entire blogs hijacked by these @$$holes…
Grow a damn pair!……Ignore Them!………Do Not Respond To Them!……TheJackAss has been as guilty in the past as anyone else of responding to, acknowledging, and arguing with these uneducated, no class morons, trolls, jackals, and stinkies…but no more…TheJackAss will no longer acknowledge these garbage haulers…so grow a damn pair!…and take back your damn blog!…
By ncscoots
August 1, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
Lew, you’re certainly correct that the farm system hasn’t been crippled by yesterday’s trades. But you shouldn’t blind yourself to the fact that Andrus, especially, was a loss, either. Please don’t give me the “blocked” stuff. Andrus, as a ML-ready player, would have no more been blocked by Escobar than Escobar is by Renteria. The better player will play, given all the other circumstances that can impact on the decision.
I’m not knocking the trade, heck, I’m glad to see Teixeira here, but I can see the cost clearly, too. We didn’t get the guy for a bag of balls and some castoffs.
By Anders
August 1, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
Chase - That’s your best shot. The Mets play the Marlins and Nats exclusively the last 14 games. The Braves have Milwaukee and Phillies 7 out of last 10. I don’t think you want to wait until after Labor day to make your move.
By TheSouthernJackAss
August 1, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this
oh…and for all you people that don’t mind licking their boots…don’t forget to wear your lip gloss…
By Lew
August 1, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this
Anders-I acknowledge you are no Troll, but I have to ask, Dude, who you trying to convince? It must be yourself, because it’s doubtful many here will agree about the Mets potential supremacy. The Mets are, as usual, given their past 15 year track record, just where (with last year as an exception) they always are-way underachieving. You speak of the 3 1/2 game lead they hold-Dude, yesterday it was 4 1/2. On May 20th it was 3 games. Gee, they gained all of 1/2 game throughout the past TEN WEEKS-and this with the Braves going 10 games under with the AL(who we won’t see again until the WS) and OUR cleanup hitter batting less than his weight. The Mets just lost their cleanup hitter for a substantial amount of time. You should realize by now that we aren’t much concerned with anything the Mets can bring. Pedro will NOT be your salvation and seeing how much most Mets fans are banking on him coming back as his ex Cy Young self (he hasn’t been there for several years, anyway) just tickles us all to death. It gives us a daily laugh. Keep banking on a formerly great pitcher who has already seen his better days slide by and is now returning from serious shoulder surgery. Dude, You won’t convince us no matter how hard you try, nor what argument you care to make-especially the one about not paying more than you think help will be worth. That’s twice now I’ve heard THAT one. Y’all said the same thing in the offseason. “We have the other half of God’s $$$ that Big Bad George doesn’t have, but we don’t want to spend it on Zito or Schmidt (or Marquis or Lilly).”-now it’s “there wasn’t anything worth it at the deadline.” That argument will get you nowhere-just like NOT helping your team to fill deficiencies will not lead to the Promised Land of the Post Season.
By Ron
August 1, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this
DOB you gonna lead the way with the torches? LOL!!!
By ncscoots
August 1, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this
Ned, Soriano and Yates still under club control next year. I think Dotel has a team option for some fairly large dollars, but not sure about that.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this
DOB I hope things have settled down for you. I am w/ you on Edgar and Chipper. I too think if we had to decide right now on an MVP it would have to be Renteria. He has been the most consistant ALL year. His field play has been incredible. As for his bat, it is a rare day that he doesn’t get at least 1 hit. He has been the guy w/ the clutch(2 out) hit when we need 1. Chipper has been great too and would be even better if it weren’t for his DL stint and taking time off for little ailments. This has been his best year in a few years and agree if he can stay away from the DL for the rest of the year, he deserves to be in the MVP talk. Now w/ Tex protecting him, there is no telling how great he can be the rest of the way.
DOB I do have a statement and question for you. Waiver wire deals are a little harder than the July trade(even though we did get Neagle through the wire) so don’t you think if we are interested in someone we should act fast? A team w/ the worst record gets to claim a player first. Right now we are behind Philly and the Mets in our division and LAD, SD and the Cubs in the wild card race. Is anyone on our radar? If so, don’t you think before we start making our run at the 5 above teams we should act fast? We all know how easy it is to block a trade to your rival team.
I am happy w/ what JS has already done, but 1 more SP would sure be nice.
I don’t knkow about you guys, but I got chills a few times last night, especially from the standing “O” Tex received when he showed up.
GO BRAVES
By Steeledawg
August 1, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this
I realize this post is coming at least 5 days late, but here goes. I was reading an article about the 20th anniversay of Appetite for Destruction the other day. So I decided to give it a listen, and I mean a real listen. What an incredible album, those guys really brought the goods. It still sounds as fresh as it did back in ‘87. The article gave a lot of insight into the making of the album, it was a real collaboration, no egos involved just a team effort to make it as good as it could be. Say what you will about Axl, and some of their later works, this is a classic.
Listening to Appetite brought back a lot of memories, and I started thinking about 1987 and it is kind of a sleeper year for great music and classic albums. Think about it Appetite, REM’s Document, Joshua Tree, hell even Pink Floyd released an album that year. And while it doesn’t hold up as well the others, Def Leppard Hysteria came out that year. Even a certain hair metal band that we dare not mention featuring David Coverdale released a decent record in 1987.
Sorry for the long and off topic post, but I feel better now.
Go Braves!
By Wayne in Utah
August 1, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
I will be curious of what roster moves are made today. I suspect Ring will go to Richmond, and Ascanio will be sent down. The Woodward/Franco/Thorman decision is the tricky one. I think the only reason Woodward might stay would be to give Bobby some lineup flexibility. Methuselah would probably clear waivers. I would hate to lose Thorman, as I think he is a keeper long-term. Just too bad he has no options.
Let’s get ‘em tonight Buddy and Big Tex!
By Arkansas Braves fan
August 1, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this
I don’t really believe that Tex has a ego problem. If he did, it must have went away when he got to Atlanta. Mlb.com has a article today about how Chipper was Tex’s boyhood idol. He is thrilled to be a brave based on the article. The guy sounds like a kid at Christmas.
By jbutler
August 1, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this
Hey..formerly known as SaltyWoody..upgrading the name?? Do you have a new one picked out..since I’m guessing this is transitional.
Carolina Lady…I have to agree w/your assessment on the overnights prowling the blog. I will keep my interest to daylight hours…
By Lee in South GA
August 1, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this
This team looks strong right now. I still have faith Lance Cormier will end up grabbing a starter’s spot before season end and help this team reach the playoffs. Corky Miller was brought up for his defense abilities and with this offense he does not have to be an above average hitter. I would prefer Woodward to be the one go. The bench would benefit more if Thorman remained. Franco, Escobar, Thorman and a duo of Harris and Diaz would make a fine bench. Anything from Miller off of the bench would be a bonus if his defense holds up.
By Lew
August 1, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this
Scoots- Good Buddy, Old Friend-Andrus is not a hitter. No one has ever acknowledged that he was-neither Braves’ fans or Braves’ brass. Besides that, he made 25 errors in the way low minor leagues. He was, at best, three years away from being ML ready. We still have Lillibridge at AAA and J.c Holt and Diory Hernandez, both of whom, unless I’m radically mistaken, can play 2B and SS, are at AA and are hitting over .300. Then in A ball, we still have Brandon Hicks, who has a .423 OBP, also hitting .300. Dude-we have quite a number as good if not better than Andrus well ahead of him, not counting Yunel. He WAS definitely blocked and it would have been a minimum of several years before we saw him in Atlanta, anyway-if then. If you want to lament one of the players, I’d go with Harrison or Beau Jones, Not Andrus.
By Arkansas Hillbilly
August 1, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this
Buddy, Corky, Chipper, Tex, Jo-Jo. Yesterday I thought it sounded like a Little Rascals movie. Today , I’m thinking it’s sounding more like the roster for a sequel to “The Sandlot.”
By Ron
August 1, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this
TheSouthernJackAss Agreed!!! They are irritating!!! But dude didn’t you say the other day you would not come back ever again? Not trying to be a smarta$$, but how many times have you actually said that and then came back on here? I have lost count, its so many times!!! Like I said, I am not trying to start anything, just wondering?
By Chase
August 1, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this
ANDERS
Yeah, you guys close out with the NATS and FLA (w/a makeup against STL)
HOWEVER,
Before that, You guys go through a stretch where you play 19 out of 22 games against the BRAVES, PHILLIES, SD, and the DODGERS!
While the Braves play FLA, NATS, Astros, Phillies and METS
And the best the METS can hope for against the Braves is to win 3 out of the remaining 9!
By Chop Chop
August 1, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this
I’m with you on this, ncscoots. The Braves paid a premium price for the players they acquired yesterday. There were no “steals” among the trades. As for “blocked” players, well, they are often the guys you turn to when injuries hit your team, so the depth at the top of the organization did take a big hit.
However, the farm system wasn’t destroyed by these trades. It definitely will need some replenishing, but the fact that the Braves could make all of these moves without wiping out the farm is a very strong testament to the work that John Schuerholz and the Braves scouting staff have done over the years. My best guess is that Schuerholz and his scouts will be in place for at least one more draft, so the Braves may be able to make up the difference if this year’s draft and next year’s work out well.
By The Drifter
August 1, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
We could call the line-up “Eight men and a Baby”. The latter being Andruw. Maybe this will fire him up for the remainder of the season. Dropping him a spot or two in the line-up may not do it.
By Paladin
August 1, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
I brought this over from the old blog where I had posted it and was waiting for it to come up, and for my laundry to get done. The laundry won. Anyway, here it is.
Lew I did not mean to include No Brain Zone and The Drool Fool in the “ignore them and they will go away” category. As you know, I “get after them” whenever they “appear”, and I am around. I will continue to do so and I applaud your efforts to control such vermin.
Anders Actually, a baseball debate with me would not be much fun, or challenge. I see these people who can tell you what pitchers are in Seattle’s bullpen and their history, from birth, and I am impressed. But, not enough to do that kind of study myself. I’m just a mildly enthusiastic baseball fan waiting to become a supercalifrasticexpeadaladoious enthusiastic Dawgs and Falcons fan when they begin play. In the meantime, I am sort of a second-line “enforcer” who helps keep our streets clean so that the other denizens can go about their business, while interjecting an occasional pithy comment of my own. You’ll find plenty who want to, and can play. Believe me. So, I’ll stay off your back as long as you behave yourself. Oh, and one other thing. Metro Man comes on occasionally, and doesn’t stay long. Word to the wise.
Scribe Referring to Wicky as a “manatee” was right on—and priceless. I’ll bet when we trade him that the new team will require a physical to check him for propeller marks. Also, I hope that we don’t have to pay the freight. The bill would be astronomical.
By NCBravesFan
August 1, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
Greg I know you asked DOB to weigh in on Andruw and the year he’s having, but I’ll toss my own 2 cents in just the same …
If Andruw had hit .260-.270 as is customary, he would be closing in on 100 RBI by now … and the Braves might be in first place.
By any measure, he’s had a horrible year for a 4-spot hitter with as many opportunities as he’s gotten.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
Actually Jackass last night I said that another member was added to the Tex deal. The A-Team guys who usually post some great comments on here. They were all missing last night so we were left w/ pansies arguing back and forth. It was terrible, we just made great improvement to our team and sports wasn’t the topic. It sounded like a bunch of high school kids arguing over a girl.
As for the Braves, I am glad we have Tex going against the Astros his 1st series b/c they play the Rangers each year and he is familiar w/ them. The bad news is that he is 0 for 6 against Wandy R on tonight. The good news is that he should be pumped pretty good tonight AND he hits after another GREAT(probably best ever) switch hitter in Chipper. I would be surprised if we didn’t win by 5+ runs tonight.
GO BRAVES
By rupert
August 1, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this
i know its a little off topic, but i got to say its a little sickening the media bias towards the red sox, all they did was get a reliver who a bunch of scouts say is living on reputation, his fastball is way down in velocity and his change up is not moving, and he’s only a relief pitcher, the braves are the clear cut winner of the dealine (not that it really matters) they got an equal reliver (not in terms of career, but acutal on the field talent right now) and big bat with another young flamethrowing lefty, boston only got one relief pitcher yet they are considered to have done just as well if not better than the braves, just shows the espn and other outlets bias against the braves and bias for the sox…
GO BRAVES!!
By Arkansas Hillbilly
August 1, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this
Steeledawg,
That album of which you speak, A Momentary Lapse of Reason, would be the return of Pink Floyd minus Roger Waters. Featuring “Learning to Fly,” and “On the Turning Away.” Good stuff and good post.
By heybud
August 1, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this
I know I am in the minority on this, but I think Andruw should continue to hit in the cleanup spot and have Texeira hit fifth.
I just feel like Andruw will really get going if he has someone like Texeira batting behind him. I think he will feel less pressure with Texeira batting behind him, that he will loosen up.
I’m also concerned that if Andruw is moved out of the cleanup spot, his already fragile state this season could take yet another hit. In addition I think it would kind of ease Texeira into the lineup and not put all of the pressure of the team’s success on his shoulders.
I recognize that I am in the minority on this, and I certainly respect the opinion of the majority, but I just wanted to express another viewpoint on this (in the grand scheme of things) fairly insignificant matter.
By ncscoots
August 1, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this
Lew, as you wish. If you believe that “we have quite a number as good if not better than Andrus well ahead of him” in the minors, well, nothing I can say is going to change your mind.
By Lew
August 1, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this
Scoots-One more thing-Yes, we paid a high price, relatively speaking. However, to me, it’s much like a multimillionaire spending what to others would be prohibitive, but to the rich Dude, is insignificant (see G. Steinbrenner). Our Farm System is the multimillionaire in this case. We could well afford the cost-and still have plenty left over for beer and pretzels. Maybe even some cheap champagne.
By sportsmandh
August 1, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this
What an exciting couple of days for Braves fans!
I have read a couple of posts and articles saying the Phillies have bolstered there rotation by adding Kyle Lohse. These must have been misprints, as Lohse is terrible. In his case, it is subtraction by addition. Whereas in the Braves’ case by trading Davies, we have some addition by subtraction regardless of what we got in return.
I sure hope that Woodward is the odd man out. I have been very disappointed in him. While he has played well defensively, he has been attrocious at the plate. I saw him play quite a bit on TV a few years back when he was with the Blue Jays, and he was a much better hitter with some pop in his bat. Now he looks very non-chalant, not aggressive at all and has a very lazy swing. A guy like him that’s fighting for a roster spot should look like he’s on a mission and go up there swinging with some conviction. Say what you want, but at least Thorman takes his hacks. I would definately keep him on the bench, b/c he gives another left handed bat and some potential pop. Can play lf some if needed too.
Yahoo sports lists Jo-Jo as tomorrow’s probable starter. I would not give him another start, but would send him back to the minors and let him work there. I would go with a combo of Villareal and Cormier as the 5th starter from here out, b/c I think that’s the best remaining option (unless we can work a waiver wire trade for a 5th guy). But that’s just me …..
By Mo in the boonies
August 1, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
Sigh..Just because I live in the northern Mid-west, I couldn’t watch last night’s game or tonight’s. I really don’t think it is fair that TBS won’t carry more of the games. Once in a while I get to watch on a Fox channel, and once in a while on the dreaded Sunday night ESPN. TBS addicted much of the country to the Braves, and now they are making us suffer through withdrawal. A pox on TBS!
By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist
August 1, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this
there had never been any doubt who would deal the cards. never. for game after game, day after day, week after week, hoss was always the dealer. always.
then, there appeared a new player in town- an old maid champion in his own right. tushy was here.
tushy surveyed the unfamiliar clubhouse, taking the measure of each man in the room. not one man challenged tushy as he pushed through to the card table.
hoss could feel the unsettling presence as tushy hovered over the table. an ominous feeling came over hoss.
who is this tushy? and where does he get off in my clubhouse?
it seemed the new chair at the table was positioned just a bit too close to his own - invading hoss’ man space. no one had dared sit that close to hoss since laroche departed.
tushy’s large frame then dropped in the chair. he looked hoss in the eye and said through clenched lips, “i’ll be dealing from here on out …”
hoss just looked at tushy and said, “uh, dealing is formidable stuff. i usually do the dealing.”
“not anymore, school marm.”
tushy reached for the well-worn cards and then looked to the other players at the table. “now, play will proceed clockwise …”
part one concludes. this is the first in a continuing series. more later.
By David O'Brien
August 1, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this
Greg, Andruw’s RBI total is largely the result of getting more opportunities to hit with runners in scoring position than anyone else on the team, and almost anyone else in the NL.
He’s hitting just .227 (29-for-128) with runners in scoring position. By comparison, Jeff Francoeur is hitting .341 (43-for-126) in those situations, which ranks 10th in the NL.
Edgar Renteria (.358) is sixth in the NL at at .358 (39-for-109).
That’s 10 more hits in 19 fewer at-bats for Renteria with RISP. And 14 more hits in two fewer at-bats for Francoeur than Andruw.
If Andruw were hitting, say, .289 with RISP, he’d be 37-for-128 and have at least eight more RBIs, and probably a dozen or so more.
if he were hitting, say, .320 in those situation, he’d be 41-for-128 and have a minimum 12 more RBIs, and more likely about 20 more.
Teixeira has hit .333 (26-for-78) with RISP. That’s only three fewer hits than Andruw in a whopping 50 fewer at-bats with RISP.
You see how many wasted opportunities Andruw’s had? I mean, he’d be on the way to a 160-RBI season if he had a strong average with RISP. He’ have won the MVP hands-down the year he finished second, when he hit about 100 or more points lower with RISP than most other MVP candidates.
This year in the AL, Magglio Ordonez (.413), Derek Jeter (.398), Placido Polanco (.39) and Ichiro (.378) are the leaders with RISP. In the NL.
Nomar (.411) leads the NL, and Edgar is sixth.
By ppaddy123
August 1, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this
anyone know why Dotel hasn’t been added to the 25 man roster yet?
By Paladin
August 1, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
Ron…If I get this on in time. That is really a subject you don’t want to broach; and especially with whom you are addressing it to. That’s my word to the wise, to you.
They are irritating!!! But dude didn’t you say the other day you would not come back ever again? Not trying to be a smarta$$, but how many times have you actually said that and then came back on here? I have lost count, its so many times!!! Like I said, I am not trying to start anything, just wondering?
By Chase
August 1, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this
PREDICTION
The Braves go 5-1 (4-2 at worst) on this 6 game home stand
while the
Mets go 2-4 on their road trip and the Phillies go 3-3 on theirs!
The Braves begin their road trip 1/2 game to 1.5 games out of FIRST!
By Lew
August 1, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this
Scoots-Dude, It’s not so much that I believe there are more- go check it out yourself. I wasn’t joking about these other guys-they really exist. Andrus, to this point, has been little more than hype. He has not performed. Be that as it may-the guy is still behind at least three or four others, who HAVE performed, all the way from his level to the bigs. I’m not making that up. I’m sorry my friend, but I have NEVER heard a single Braves’ official claim that Andrus, no matter how good, was ever going to be a franchise player, whereas Texiera certainly is. You’re right-I won’t change my mind, but certainly NOT because I’m closed minded. Check out the stats and the minor league rosters if you don’t believe me. It’s all their in hits and OBP. Selah.
By Anders
August 1, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this
Lew- Your earlier blog to me actually helps my point. The Mets have increased their lead by 1/2 a game since 5/20. I believe you said on the previous blog that the Mets have had absolutely no offense for two months which I agree with. Take that into consideration along with the Braves numbers DOB posted above and I think it’s incredible that the Mets have a lead at all. You can’t keep hanging your hat on your number 4 hitter batting .214. He does have 69 RBI so he’s been somewhat productive. Apparently it’s the Mets pitching that has carried the day for them and all anyone on this blog does is ridicule them. Well, they’ve hel the fort. If they continue to do so and we get any type of hitting they’ll be fine.
By wiki
August 1, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this
Regarding the roster, I’m sure they’ll pass 3 or 4 of the relievers through waivers to see if anyone makes a claim. They can then make a deal with whoever claims them, maybe for a bench bat. Same thing goes for Thorman. It seems if the option of releasing Woodward would not be chosen because, as many have said, he plays all infield positions. If he were gone, I could envision some crazy scenarios occuring in long games, i.e. Julio at 3rd or 2nd base. What happens if Chipper is down for a few games? Infield would be Escobar, Renteria, KJ, & Tex, but the bench would be a couple of first basemen. Should be interesting.
By Anders
August 1, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this
Fairweatherbravefanhater - “Best switch hitter ever”? Umm do the names Mantle or Rose ring a bell?
I respect Chipper as much as anyone but he’s not in that company.
By Tom
August 1, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this
Escobar can play 2nd, 3rd and SS. Harris can play 2nd, at least, and maybe 3rd or SS. Thorman can play the left field in an emergency. The Braves don’t need Woodward. He and Ascanio (sp?) should be the ones to go.
By knowitall
August 1, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this
I think Woodward will be the odd man out simply because Thorman would be the only lefty bat off the bench so it wouldn’t really make sense to get rid of him. I’m sure they were already discussing getting Tex when they signed Julio which tells me that he stays.
By 3trees
August 1, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this
Great call on the Blasters. “Border Radio”, Boomtown, etc… One of the first “Roots” bands. Man, that LA scene with X, Los Lobos, et.al. was killin’.
The trades - we gave up a lot. Hopefully, it works out for all concerned, especially the Braves. They still got to do it on the field.
Go Braves!
By dack jerrick
August 1, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this
How would you like to be a NL pitcher and have to face this Braves’ lineup? Oh the humanity! the horror!
By BlueMoon
August 1, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
As good as our young hitters are I like having a vet like Tex in there to steady out the inconsistencies we’ve seen from the offense this year.
As in, 12 runs one game and a donut the next facing similar pitching. Vets have a way of keeping prolonged team slumps from coming around.
By for real
August 1, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this
DID WE NOT HAVE A FIRSTBASEMAN BY THE NAME OF LaROCHE WHO HIT 30 HRS 100 RBIS LAST YEAR ? DID WE RECIEVE FIVE OF THE PIRATES TOP PROSPECTS OR JUST ONE DEAD ARM PITCHER
By AthensBrave
August 1, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this
Anders….you’ve been posting way too much. I’m starting to get sick of you
By Stephen
August 1, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this
Think about the number of games the Braves have lost in extra innings or the number of games the Braves have lost by 1 run or the number of games the Braves have been in but lost because of an overworked bull-pen. I think Tex can certainly improve on the first two, especially if the 1 thru 3 hitters stay hot. Dotel and Mahay can certainly help with the overworked bull-pen issue.
If those problems weren’t problems up to this point, the Braves would probably be in 1st place right now.
By TheSouthernJackAss
August 1, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this
Ron—it’s just my way of crying wolf…it entertains me…it’s one of my oldest tricks…I say, “TheJackAss is gone forever!!!”…then I wait a few minutes for all the uneducated trolls, jackals, and undercover cowards to get a big erection and start celebrating the supposed exit of TheJackAss…and just when these A$sClowns work themselves into the highest pinnacle of celebratory frenzy…TheSouthernJackAss makes another grand return to the blog…and the celebration is suddenly turned into consternation as all the little A$sClowns scurry, once again, for cover, like roaches when the light hits ‘em…lost count of how many times myself…really amusing stuff…
There are a few good ol’ denizens that have been hoping and praying for my demise since the inception of this here blog…but hell!…that’s what keeps TheJackAss here…feel the love??…
By Lew
August 1, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
Anders-Dude, with Beltran gone for however long (and it will be quite a while, given the severity of the injury-he says he can’t walk OR hit), do you really think their offense is likely to improve? Doubtful, whereas, Andruw is hitting somewhat better and we just got Texiera, which makes OUR offense much improved. Not to mention the intangibles we have going for us with Texiera’s arrival. Dude, there’s no way for you to spin it. The Mets have no offense, have had no offense for some time now and refused to spend the money to get an offense. I fail to see where your optimism that they will improve is coming from. I really just don’t see it. Face it-The Braves have improved in all of their weak spots (even starters are better since Carlyle) and the Mets have not. Period.
By KC
August 1, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this
nscoots: Yes, I expect the Braves to go on a tear.
I suppose 1993 tapes are playing in my head. I know, I know, that team had a much better rotation. Still… this team has a good rotation, and a better offense and bullpen than that 93 team. I think this team is capable of accomplishing many of the same things as the 93 team in terms of making a super-strong pennant charge.
I could be wrong, but I think they’re very capable of getting hot and playing well over .600 ball for two months. I certainly won’t be shocked if that doesn’t happen… but it’s only two months. Teams can get hot and stay hot for a month or two.
By Lew
August 1, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this
Anders-One more thing-Going sub .500 for 2 1/2 months, Is NOT holding the fort. It’s barely keeping your head above water. If not for our 10 game under performance against the AL, we would have buried you by now. Against the NL, who we play until the WS, we’re 15 games OVER .500 and we’re improved-you’re not.
By daxxed
August 1, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this
Proof will be in the pudding, but as long as he can drive in runners in scoring position without hitting into inning ending double plays for which AJ has done over a dozen times this season, the Braves should make their move and especially since all of a sudden the Mets and Phils have been hammered with injuries to key players, the Bravos should be able to take first within 2 weeks.
By Lew
August 1, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
Anders-This may surprise you, but Chipper has a higher lifetime batting average except for one previous player-Frankie Frisch. He is the ONLY switch hitter in baseball history to hit over .300 for his career with more than 350 HR. Yes, he truly is one of the three or four greatest switch hitter of all time. Only one player, Sammy Sosa, had 100 or more RBI for more consecutive seasons than Chipper (8 straight) did and he was using a corked bat and who knows what else.
By brian
August 1, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB-
Now would be a good time to roll out some T-shirts of Braves/MIB blog.
With all the excitement they would sell in a hurry. Would the AJC let you start up a little side business?
By Lew
August 1, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this
Excuse me-That should be more than any previous SWITCH HITTING player.
By Anders
August 1, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this
Lew- Fair enough. Let’s see how it plays out. I wasn’t basing my whole theory on Beltran. Not sure about the spending money part - Beltran, Delgado, Alou, Green all big bucks. Plus they locked up Reyes and Wright in long term deals way before they had to. Please don’t say intangible. That’s a 4 letter word we’ve been hearing up here in NYC about the most over rated shortstop ever on the other side of town!
By The Grinch
August 1, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this
Howdy, all. Anders, I don’t disagree the Mets offense will probably wake up. However, they’ve been pitching way over their heads now for most of the season. I expect the offense to pick up and the pitching to slip; how that evens out remains to be seen. The Braves’ pitching can’t slip much further than it has (and Redman and Davies are gone now); the worn-out bullpen has been bolstered and there’s no way the offense isn’t about to pick up at least a little. On paper, it looks close but I think we have a slight edge. In practice, I think we’ll win by 5 or 6 games. I don’t blame you for continuing to hope otherwise, though; stranger things have happened.
Scoots, you act as if you have reservations about this team’s greatness! You, sir, are a doubting Thomas of the highest order. While I don’t agree with Lew that there are 4 better SS’s in our system than Andrus, I think there’s still plenty of talent left; more than we’ll wind up needing to take the field. One can only play so many at a given position, you know, despite Bobby’s unnatural affinity for platoons. I wonder if he watches that movie every night after the game. Nah, probably Mr. Magoo or some such thing.
By s t i n k y
August 1, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this
TheSouthernJackerOpher likes trolling for attention. He was a distant 2nd for most feared blogger of 2006 and tarnished a once fearsome reputation by going soft. Which is a fitting metaphor.
By Braves
August 1, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this
Anders - Your reference to Rose and mantle versus Chipper proves that familiarity breeds contempt.
With his career not yet complete, he has a better career batting average than both - no comparison in power numbers versus Rose. Granted he’ll never get to Mantle’s 536 homers but with 357 entering the season, 400 is almost a gimme. Give this guy some credit, he’s a hell of a ballplayer and will probably join the Big 3 in the Hall when all is said and done.
By Anders
August 1, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this
Lew- I can’t make your AL games go away. As a matter of fact as the only NL team that has to play the Yankees 6 times a year while others play the D’Rays and the like I really don’t want to hear it. And staying in a position your in or slightly improving it IS holding the fort. As for Chipper - I have the utmost respect for the guy. I actually don’t think he gets the recognition he deserves nationally for his career. The guy’s a class act and a real gamer. That said and believe me I’m a Yankee hater through and through you can’t put his career up against Mantles or Roses for that matter. That’s all I was saying. That dude said “the best ever”. Can we agree that’s a little over the top?
By Lew
August 1, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
Scoots-Not to belabor a point (well, maybe so), but I wanted you to see my rationale in cold hard stats. For this season, let’s compare Andrus to the others-Batting Average Andrus .244, Lillibridge .278, Hernandez .303, Holt .321, Brandon Hicks .300. OBP Andrus .328, Lill.355, Holt .385, Hernan. .361, Hicks .423. Now none of the bunch has tons of power. However, Lillibridge and Holt flat out fly and steal bases. Sorry man, Elvis was not playing to his hype, even at a much lower level. Combine this with the fact that Yunel is hitting over .300 in the bigs and is supposed to be an excellent glove man at short and you see why Elvis was blocked for the foreseeable future.
By Hammy the Brave
August 1, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
DOB, I’m very excited with all the trades, and JS’s efforts to upgrade the team.
Hopefully, from the sound of what Tex has said, he might actually want to sign with the Braves longterm. I hope it’s a case of the dog wagging it’s tail, rather than his agent forcing him to free agency regardless. I know you respect Boras, but I consider him the Johnny Cochrane of sports agents.
Concerning the actual trades themselves, I have two small bones to pick with JS, and wanted your input, DOB.
Why did JS feel he had to send a fifth prospect for Harrison’s injury, if he already had included Neftili Perez for that reason? Shouldn’t he have gotten some kind of prospect/third player from the Texas side?
My biggest beef is the trade for Royce Ring. Why did he include Will Sartup in this trade, for a pitcher I have heard is only a lefty specialist. In other words, I considered Startup to be a lefty setup man, and hopefully their next good lefty reliever.
Also, what’s new on the Bob Wickman trade front? Have you heard any rumors, and could they get any pitching back for him?
Hammy the Brave
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
August 1, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
I think it would be risky but I would rather the Braves put Woodward on waivers. As some folks pointed out, Escoabr can play 2B, SS, and 3B. Harris can play 2B, 3B, and all three outfield positions. Thorman can play 1B and LF and I assume RF in an emergency. Kelly Johnson can play not only 2B but LF and RF as well as SS and 3B. Don’t forget he was drafted as a SS/3B. While Thorman has been God-awful I would rather keep him because he is young and I still think he can play. He just had way too much pressure put on him. So, the way I see it we would have enough guys to cover all the positions in case of extra inning games or injuries. I think if Thorman was reduced to being a pinch hitter off the bench he would likely relax more and could be an awfully big left handed threat coming off that bench. Ask yourselves this question. The Braves are down 3-2 in the bottom of the ninth of game seven of the NLCS. There are two outs with a runner on second base. We have one bat on the bench and a homer would send us to the WS. Who do you want coming to the plate? Scott Thorman or Chris Woodward?
By Paladin
August 1, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this
See what I mean, Anders? And when Lew gets breathless, he will turn it over to…and so on. Why don’t you go get some work done and come back tomorrow during “slo time”.
Some of our other Top Guns(Lew is one of them but he seems to be in a mellow mood today)will be here momentarily. It won’t be fun…for you.
By Renegator
August 1, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this
I think the expectations for this team down the stretch have gotten way too high. Let’s play the games and see how it goes before we start talking about winning the division by 5 or 6 games. Remember - before the trades - this was a .500 team.
By Thrillhouse44
August 1, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this
for real, We received a pitcher who pitched his tail off until he got injured.
Oh yeah, we got a versatile prospect who helped make the other prospects you’re referring to expendable. Laroche has been tearing it up, huh? Quit living in the past. Welcome to August 1, 2007.
By DrHoo
August 1, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this
The logical thing is that Woodward is gone. Here’s the breakdown: Woodward can’t hit, has no power, is a right-handed player on a team who will be using Julio Franco as their right-handed bat off the bench, has no trade value, but can play several positions in case of injury (and would play that position for exactly one game before we brought someone up from AAA). Thorman can’t hit, can only play first where we don’t need him, but has power, is left-handed, is young with some potential if someone can fix his swing. The logical move without another promising left handed bat to bring off the bench is to keep Thorman, hide him in the 25th spot on the roster until September when rosters expand, and then you have until the start of next season to re-teach him how to hit or trade him. Or maybe they’ll cut both of them and promote Pete Orr again :P
By Ron
August 1, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this
TheSouthernJackAss Cool man!!! Welcome Back ONCE AGAIN!!! LOL!!!
By bevsouth
August 1, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this
Five years ago the two top prospects who “we would never trade” were Wilson Betemit and Andy Marte. Point is you never know with prospects. Neither of the above have ever really achieved anything.So those who are bemoaning the loss of our “prospects” remember that probably 2 or 3 of the 5 will never make it.
By ncscoots
August 1, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this
Grinch, reservations are only good at restaurants. Certainly, I think the Braves are a better team today than Monday, just don’t know if I’m quite ready for “greatness” as an adjective, LOL.
And don’t call me Thomas :-)
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this
Saltwoody and heybud You both said you were worried about hurting the feelings of Andruw by pushing him back in favor of Tex. Even if that were the case how much worse can he hit than .215?
Rupert I wouldn’t worry too much about media bias. Who really cares if the media or anyone else talks more about the Red Sox or Yamkees. We know what we have and the less they talk about us the more they will be surprised when we reclain the NL East!
GO BRAVES
By Anders
August 1, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this
Grinch - Have you done the math for your 6 game win of the division? Let’s say the Mets go a modest 31 - 25 over their last 56 games. That’s half as many games over .500 as they have until this point -not unreasonable. The Braves would have to go 40-15 the rest of the way. Have you cleared this with Chase? I believe he’s in charge of all record predictions.
By SourPatchKid
August 1, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this
Great trades yesterday, can’t wait to see Tex tomorrow night in person (of course Dotel and Mahay too). I’m not arguing with JS and his record on trading prospects. Here’s something for you that think Salty is the next Bench:
http://www.sportsline.com/mlb/story/10276722
“You watch — Saltalamacchia won’t turn out to be anything,” an NL scout says. “The Braves are great at that. They played him some, but they must have known if they played him too much, it’d show he can’t throw, or can’t hit — something.”
By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist
August 1, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this
“hear you’re a switch hitter.”
“yup, that’s right.”
“uh, i’m a switch hitter, too. some say i’m one of the great ones.”
“that’s nice. you still can’t deal.”
By Lew
August 1, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this
Anders-You just put your foot in your mouth. Play the DRays? Play the Yankees? Dude, we did NOT play the Rays and we played the Red Sox (who if you hadn’t noticed,the Yankees are 7 games BEHIND the Sox) 6 times. When YOU played them they were about 12 back. Don’t even go there. As far as the AL games-my point was that we don’t play them any more this season a (until the WS) and against the teams we DO play (like the Mets), we’re 15 games over .500. Sorry, you can’t spin that one, either. BTW-YOu are aware we’ve beaten you twice out of every three times we’ve played you? Of course, Davies, the Mets Killer IS gone.
By bravesfan
August 1, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this
mlbtraderumors.com Kyle Farnsworth for Bob Wickman. This would’ve been fun, reunions with former teams for both players. However, the Braves wanted the Yankees to pick up all of Farnsworth’s salary, apparently. Brian Cashman didn’t want to make him go away that badly, and Wickman would probably be a nonfactor back in the AL.
By TheSouthernJackAss
August 1, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this
So this school teacher asks all her young students to raise their hands if they are Yankee fans…all the students raise their hands except one…”Okay, Little Ronnie, which team are you a fan of?”… Little Ronnie replies, “The Red Sox!”…Teacher asks him why?…”Well my mommy is a Red Sox fan, and my daddy is a Red Sox fan, so I’m a Red Sox fan too.”…Teacher replies, “that’s not a very good reason, what if both of your parents were morons? Would that make you a moron too?”…Little Ronnie says, “Hell no!…That would make me a Mets fan!”…
By Luther
August 1, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this
I think that AVG. with RISP is blown way out of proportion. I will qualify this by saying that Andruw is having a bad season period by offensive standards. However, he has 2 more ABs than Frenchy with RISP and 14 less hits with RISP, yet they have the same amount of RBI. Whats next, do we start keeping a stat that computes AVG with RISP divided by # of RISP? No, power hitting does factor into it.
Andruw should have won the MVP in 05 and lost it(IMO) because of a lot of bad press about that number. Home runs still do matter. If you are a HR hitter you always have a runner in scoring position because you could hit one out at any time or with a guy on first. Is that run less important?
By Mark
August 1, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this
Andruw should be hitting 7th behind Tex, Frenchy and McCann. I cannot understand why Cox kept putting him in the #4 slow and now that Tex is here I will not understand him hitting higher than Frenchy and McCann. Heck, against righties he sould probably hit 8th behind Johnson.
By Anders
August 1, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this
Paladin - You don’t understand. I live in a city where we have two or more teams for every sport. We defend our position continuosly. I’ve been at this all day and have enjoyed all takers.
By Paladin
August 1, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this
Hey Grinch and Scoots I think doubting Thomas sounds better than doubting Bubba, but that’s just me. :-)
By dack jerrick
August 1, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this
This just in: “Mets and Pillie pitchers drinking heavily”…..
By Chop Chop
August 1, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this
Farnsworth is a first-rate bum. Why anybody would have wanted that guy back after the ‘05 NLDS is beyond me.
By Anders
August 1, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this
Lew- When I referenced the D’Rays I didn’t mean this season specifically. I meant since interleague started. The Mets play the Yanks 6 times every year no matter what. You think that hasn’t impacted the NL East division race the last 10 years while the Yanks dominated baseball? So if you have to play the Sox so be it.
By az_braves_fan
August 1, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this
DOB - Any news on the roster moves yet?
By Paladin
August 1, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this
Anders…I live in a “city” where we have two or more sports for every team. Rural America, y’see?
By BravesDave
August 1, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB, I assume you were referring to me when you mentioned the late night bloggers who were supposedly calling Francoeur “mediocre”. Actually, I don’t think that I said he was mediocre. I said that I thought he was a good run producer. I said I thought his numbers placed in the 1980’s would make him a perennial MVP candidate, but in these days of offensive statistics, he is simply a good run producer. The debate was whether he was a “star”. I stated that I didn’t think he was in the Pujols, Jeter, Miguel Cabrera, Vlad Guerrero category. I think he is a very solid Major Leaguer…just not a “best player in the NL”-type.
I don’t think that means “mediocre”, nor is it an insult.
By Lew
August 1, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this
Anders-No I can’t agree it’s over the top. The highest Batting Average of any switch hitting player in ML History except one? And THAT guy played almost 80 years ago. So let’s put it like the highest switch hitting Batting Average in THE PAST 80 YEARS-more than 75% of ML history. And BTW-do the Mets have ANYONE who comes close to being compared favorably to Mantle, much less has a higher BA than The Mick while hitting from both sides of the plate? Do the Mets even have anyone who has hit close to 400 HR for their career in NY? I think not. Mets fans keep hyping David Wright as better than Chipper. It will be some years before he even qualifies as being close. So what if he’s the second or third best all time behind two HOFers like Mantle and Eddie Murray? Dude, you’re losing whatever credibility you had very quickly. I think you’re really upset that Chipper has made the Mets his patsy for so long. Yelling Larry Larry when he plays in Shea-How has that worked for you so far? Let’s just hope he doesn’t name his next kid Citibank.
By The Grinch
August 1, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this
I’m not that good at math, truthfully, but it seems if we match our 6-3 record against you earlier in the year through our last 9 games with you (not unreasonable), that would alter what had to be done otherwise quite considerably. Perhaps 6 games was a bit over the top, but I see no reason a comfortable margin is out of the realm of possibillity. Unless Smoltz’ arm continues on to the plate with the ball one of these days soon (which is also not unreasonable), I think we’ll have your number. The schedule and Pedro’s return will help you towards the end, but you might be playing catch-up by then. Anyhow, none of our opinions matter untill the games are played.
Lew, how many times during the course of your life do you think you’ve used the term “dude?” We could make one of those YouTube clips like they do of all the f-words from Scarface or all the Howyadoin’s from the Sopranos…:-)
By Anders
August 1, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this
SJA will be performing here on Wednesdays and Fridays from 4:00 to 5:00. How about a nice round of applause?
By Lew
August 1, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this
And we play the Red Sox every year for six games. I told you, you have no edge there at all. Give it up. You really think that is the reason we won 14 straight and you sucked? Disillusionment and outright delusion abound in Mets’ land. No doubt of that.
By Eric from MO
August 1, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this
For Real”DID WE NOT HAVE A FIRSTBASEMAN BY THE NAME OF LaROCHE WHO HIT 30 HRS 100 RBIS LAST YEAR ? DID WE RECIEVE FIVE OF THE PIRATES TOP PROSPECTS OR JUST ONE DEAD ARM PITCHER”
You are forgeting some major details. Tex is a multi-time all-star. LaRoche has yet to been to one. Tex is a multi-time goldglover. LaRoche has yet to win one. Only three players have had more homers in their first 4 years than Tex. Their are hundreds more than LaRoche. Basically Tex has had 4 good years while LaRoche had a good half.
Besides the Braves were not looking for prospects. Our farm system was plenty deep. Also Gonzo will be back next year and he was lights out when he was playing this year.
Mo in the boonies “Sigh..Just because I live in the northern Mid-west, I couldn’t watch last night’s game or tonight’s. I really don’t think it is fair that TBS won’t carry more of the games. Once in a while I get to watch on a Fox channel, and once in a while on the dreaded Sunday night ESPN. TBS addicted much of the country to the Braves, and now they are making us suffer through withdrawal. A pox on TBS!”
I agree.
By Chase
August 1, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this
Anders,
Since MAY 20 the METS are little more than a .500 team themselves so what do you mean “If they go a modest 31-25”
THAT WOULD BE AN EXCELLENT IMPROVEMENT OVER HOW THEY HAVE BEEN PLAYING!
By the way, my prediction is the Braves win 92 games and the Mets win 90!
But the Mets winning 90 depends totally on how long Beltran is out!
If he misses more than 2 weeks you guys can forget about it.
Thats why the Phillies shouldn’t concern EITHER the BRAVES or METS…not with Utley out until the first of September and Victorino and Bourn on the 15 day DL.
By JMar
August 1, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this
Scoots-Not to belabor a point (well, maybe so), but I wanted you to see my rationale in cold hard stats. For this season, let’s compare Andrus to the others-Batting Average Andrus .244, Lillibridge .278, Hernandez .303, Holt .321, Brandon Hicks .300. OBP Andrus .328, Lill.355, Holt .385, Hernan. .361, Hicks .423. Now none of the bunch has tons of power. However, Lillibridge and Holt flat out fly and steal bases. Sorry man, Elvis was not playing to his hype, even at a much lower level.
I’m not saying that I disagree with trading him, but your “cold hard stats” are garbage. How about this for a comparison: Andrus - 19, Holt - 24, Yunel - 24, Lilly - 23. You’re comparing a high school graduate with college graduates. Last year, Yunel (at 23) hit .262 in AA. Holt (at 23) hit .266 last year at Myrtle Beach. Andrus had an OBP one point higher than Holt had at MB, and he’s four years younger. Maybe Andrus will excel, maybe he won’t, but it’s ridiculous to look at his numbers now and say he won’t become a hitter.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this
1st of all Anders, I said probably the best. Meaning he is in the company of the best few. In my opinion..he is the best. Chipper has 8 seasons where he hit 30+ bombs and 100+ RBI’s. and 4 others he hit-21/111, 26/100, 27/106 and 30/96. Even visiting the DL. He has played 14 seasons, including this and has hit 374HR and 1253RBI’s w/ .306 avg.
As for Mantle…he hit 30+ HR and 100+ RBI’s only 2 times and in 18 years has hit 536 and 1509 w/ a .298 avg.
And Rose…never hit a season at 30/100. Played 24 yrs w/ 160/1314 and a .303 avg.
All of these are great players, in fact I love them all. You can’t talk about the all-time best swith hitters and not bring Chipper up. The numbers(and memories) don’t lie!!!
By Paladin
August 1, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this
Anders son, what am I going to do with you?
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
August 1, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this
Luther, avg w/RISP is a very important stat. Your point about Frenchy having the same amount of RBIs as Andruw in only two less at-bats is noted. The difference between the two is that Frenchy’s 14 more hits means that he made 14 fewer outs in that situation than Andruw which gave the next hitter a shot. Fact is Andruw kills a lot of rallies.
Sometimes stats don’t tell the whole story but sometimes they do. If Andruw gets just 8 more hits in those situations, that likely translates into 12 or so more RBI which could’ve translated into two or three more wins. Those potential wins could be a big deal at the end of the season.
Some are always demeaning the “clutch” factor but it is a big issue. It changes the way pitchers attack a hitter. Someone like Big Pappi has the reputation of being clutch. Pitchers know this and tend to get too careful around him thus increasing their chances of making a mistake. Some guys just have a flare for the dramatic like Frenchy. I’ll be honest. If we were in game 7 of the WS and the choice was between Andruw or Frenchy to be at the plate with the opportunity to get the WS clinching hit, I would by a wide margin rather have Frenchy at the plate than Andruw. I know Francoeur will bear down and do his best to get that hit while Andruw will just go up and swing away and likey strikeout on three pitches. It is the truth and if we were honest with ourselves we all know it deep down. That is not to say Andruw doesn’t come through in big moments but he is more likely to fail than is Frenchy or Chipper or McCann.
By BamaBrave
August 1, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this
Well said Braves…thanks for defending Chipper’s switch hitting reputation. In typical NY fashion, Anders projects a certain sense of superiority and condescension, even though he obviously didn’t do his homework on that topic. That said, he seems to hate Derek Jeter…so he can’t be all bad. LOL
By supa
August 1, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this
DOB, any idea on the transactions today?
By Anders
August 1, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this
Lew- Relax. I never mentioned anything about the Mets in the Chipper blog. The Mets have never had a player near his caliber - I have no issue with that. Mets fans don’t hate Chipper. They bust on him but it’s not vile like it can be with others. That’s why he takes it so well. He knows it when he’s there. As for him against Mantle - honestly I couldn’t care less anymore. Uncle.
By Sicem
August 1, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this
The post season is coming back to the ATL. Sorry Mets I hope you enjoyed that one lucky season. 14 in a row baby and another streak starts in 2007. Thanks JS you have done it again! This lineup could slug their way to a World Series Championship! I cant wait until we play the Mets again.
By David O'Brien
August 1, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this
JULIO FRANCO designated for assignment. Braves could bring him back in September if no teams claim him. They’d assign him to a minor league position, player or player/coach perhaps, then bring him back when rosters are expanded.
JOSE ASCANIO optioned to Double-A Mississippi.
By Dawg19
August 1, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this
to FairWeatherBraveFanHater
I agree that Chipper is one of the greatest switch hitters of all time but definately not the best. I’m sure that you were caught up in the blog and all but don’t forget about a guy named Mickey Mantle. That is the greatest switch hitter of all time.
Now on topic, I have to say that I am more excited about watching the game tonight as I have been in a while. This will be the first test of the rest of the season and I say so because Smoltz and Hudson aren’t pitching. Neither is James. Tonight Carlyle throws for the home team and hopefully can continue what he has done over the last month.
I can’t wait fot 7:35 to roll around.
Go Braves!!
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this
While the Mets were playing “impacting the NL East” the Braves were only playing the RED SOX who have been tougher the past few years.
Give me a break!!
By Ron
August 1, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this
“You watch — Saltalamacchia won’t turn out to be anything,” an NL scout says. “The Braves are great at that. They played him some, but they must have known if they played him too much, it’d show he can’t throw, or can’t hit — something.”
Well that scout is an IDIOT!!! I dont know IF Salty will turn out to be what we think he will be, BUT I think he will be VERY VERY GOOD!!! The Scout said he cant throw? What the Hell, he can throw better than McCann, better than Most Catchers in the GAME!!! He said he may not be able to hit? What a Crock!!! This guy is going to be Awesome!!! Whatever team that scout is on, I bet that team has A PIECE OF CRAP FARM SYSTEM!!!!!!!!
By Lew
August 1, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this
Anders-I warned you not to go to interleague schedules, Dude. Here is some ogf the Mets’ history- 2000 they played the Rays, the Orioles and the BJays. 2001 The Rays, O’s and BJ’s. 2002 The Royals. 2003 The Mariners and Royals. 2004 The Royals and Tigers (when they still sucked). 2005 The O’s. Last year, the O’s. Don’t sit here and tell me your interleague has been so, so difficult. You played your share of sucky teams and STILL came in smelling Braves’ butts. Give it up Dude. You’re embarrassing yourself.
By TheSouthernJackAss
August 1, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this
Anders will be performing all night in the men’s room…as usual…
By Lew
August 1, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this
Grinch-Dude, no more often than you’ve talked about being drunk on your a* or otherwise totally out of it. Certainly not as much as you use profanity against various Trolls. Hate to ask this, my Friend, but what crawled up your’s today? Hung over yet again? :)
By Paladin
August 1, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this
Anders…There is an individual on here that one of the other blog denizens once described as being a cross between Godzilla, King Kong and Bad, Bad Leroy Brown! And you take a swipe at him!!
And for all I know, he might have mob connections, too. You don’t live that far from Jersey, do you?
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
August 1, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this
I have to say I’m shocked Julio was desginated. I can guarantee that Bobby wasn’t in agreement with that decision. That was all JS. Honestly, I would have rather seen Woodward useless butt desingated.
By Jeremy
August 1, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this
I’m upset that Franco was DFA’d!!! He didn’t deserve that considering Woodward has been garbage all year. I know Woodward can play anywhere but Willie can play 2B and 3B and Thor can play LF! Even Thor deserved to go before Franco since he is no pinch hitter the way Franco is and also Franco is a great veteran who can assist many of the younger players. I have liked all of JS’s recent moves…just not this one.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this
*Dawg19 I know how good Mantle is but did you read an earlier post w/ the #’s I put up? Like I said, the #’s don’t lie!
By bravesfan
August 1, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this
DOB why Julio he is way better than Thorman and Woodward?
By Anders
August 1, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this
Hey Braves fans - get your facts together. The Braves have NOT played the Red Sox 6 times a year since interleague play started.
By Ron
August 1, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this
So all those damn at bats were for nothing!!! Bunch of bullcrap!!! Hell it would of been just as good to give Thorman those at bats to keep him fresh!!! I know it was a TOUGH decision, but I dont agree with that AT ALL!!! Julio is OUR best Pinch hitter!!! But we would have definately lost Thorman on waivers!!! And Woodcrap can play ALOT of different positions, BUT STILL!!! I dont know what I would have done, but I would not have designated Julio for assignment!!!
By JasonInMaine
August 1, 2007 5:50 PM | Link to this
Wow…thanks DOB. I am suprised…I thought it would be Woodward. I would rather have Franco pinch hit than Woodward! With Escobar able to play 3 infield positions and Willie having the ability to play 2nd and 3rd…we could get by without Woodward…
But, in BC and JS we trust!
By Glass Half Full (GHF)
August 1, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this
That’s kinda crappy about Julio. Of course, I didn’t want him to be a starter, but to be DFA’d after the Braves made such a big deal about bringing him back…
By Lew
August 1, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this
JMar-You really need to unwind your boxers. The point is that those other players, who are hardly old enough for the scrap heap themselves, are performing better at much higher levels than Andrus did at the absolute lowest levels. No matter how good Andrus MIGHT be SOMEDAY, he hasn’t achieved what these others have at the levels they are now achieving. Even IF he becomes good, these players are STILL ahead of him in the scheme of things and would likely get a chance to play before he does. If not one of the others, certainly Lillibridge as well as Yunel, who is ALREADY achieving better than Elvis did at rookie and low A, at the ML level. It really wasn’t that big a deal giving him away. Plenty more where he came from and there will be plenty more coming in the next years. As I tried to point out, if you want to lament a player, try Harrison, who may have helped next year, or soon thereafter. I certainly will not freak over losing an A- player with no track record except hype over a non-developed baby.
By Luther
August 1, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this
Robert (Justice Is The Best) - I agree and what you say makes sense. I guess I also was saying that if someone hits a double with a guy on first or hits a solo homerun, it can still be clutch. It is still an RBI. So AVG with RISP doesn’t completely measure how clutch a player is, especially a power hitter. Would not consider Andruw a clutch hitter(walker maybe).
By Todd
August 1, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this
Crap, Julio has been the best first basemen so far this year (granted that’s not saying a lot) and is rewarded with being designated for assignment. I know that the supposed reason is that you don’t want to lose Thorman to waivers, but as the recent trades demonstrate, isn’t the over all purpose to make the team better now. Does anyone here really believe that the Braves are a better team with Thorman backing up Tex and pinch hitting than Julio, much less Woodsuck?
By ArkyTech
August 1, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this
Look, I’m a Salty fan, but the dude only hit .230 in AA last year with 9 HR in 376 AB. Even though injuries played a role, .230 in AA isn’t real impressive. His minor league BB/K ratio isn’t great either. (Here are his career stats for those interested [http://firstinning.com/players/Jarrod-Saltalamacchia-a/])
I will say this, though - the kid look great behind the plate.
Braves played this perfectly. Salty may turn out to be a solid major leaguer, but for now at best he is still a year or two away from being a solid major leaguer. Had McCann not gone on the DL this year, he’d still be down in Mississippi and everyone in the organization would be saying the guy is still a couple years away from the majors.
Basically, we got Texiera because Salty went on a 2 week tear when he was called up, and the cult hero - crazy name and all - was born.
By Mark
August 1, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this
Ron, you missed the scouts point. He was saying that the Braves have a history of trading prospects when thier value is at thier highest and sometimes they never reach that potential. See one Marte for an example. I don’t think he was specifically saying that Salty can’t hit or throw.
By Anders
August 1, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this
Later all - Win lose or tie I’ll be back tomorrow .
By TNRON
August 1, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this
I dont care if he can only play 1b I would have rather kept Julio.Woodcrap should have been cut.I wonder if JS is looking at a long term deal for Woodcrap?Who would you rather have at the plate pinchhitting?I guess they feel he’s more versatile.If he is in the field its because some one got ran over by a train or a big blowout one way or other.Julio was starting to come around with the bat.I know it makes more sense but I just dont like Woodcrap.Maybe Julio clears and goes to Richmond and comes back in September.Hopefully to celebrate.
By Lew
August 1, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this
Paladin-SJA once said that I was not a person likely to believe that when you p!$$ on my shoes, will accept your explanation that I’m standing in a thunderstorm.
By Chop Chop
August 1, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this
I have no problem with Anders. He seems to be a Mets fan that likes talking baseball. If he starts sinking to the depths of “Mets rule”, he’ll be a troll. Otherwise, he’s just a sane Mets fan who is capable of arguing his team’s merits without being an utter moron.
By Tomahawkin' Again
August 1, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this
Wow, Franco designated for assignment. The last couple of days does resemble the Godfather…Don Schuerholz is taking care of all the family business now that Time Warner is out of the picture. I do wish, however, that it was Woodward that woke up with a horse’s head in his bed and not Julio.
By The Grinch
August 1, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this
Actually, I just started drinking about an hour ago for the first time in 5 days. I’m not in a bad mood at all; just pokin’ at you. Gearing up for the unholy @$$-whippin’ we’re gonna put on the Stros tonight. And what’s this about profanity? When I’m provoked I tend to use words like $%#% and &^#@$, which don’t mean anything at all! There are too many…(well, three) women who frequent this arena for me to be so vulgar as to use profanity. Although, I guess most can figure out what mother-%$#%@ means. Hmm. I’ll see what I can do.
By Chris
August 1, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this
DOB, Chipper is the man. In my opinion, he is the Most Valuable Player on any team in contention.
However, he currently sits 30 RBI behind the NL leader. I have difficulty seeing a top 3 MVP guy that far behind the league leader.
Want it to happen; don’t think it will.
By supa
August 1, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this
Thanks DOB.
I’m shocked about Julio too, but probably the right decision. He played very well, I thought, since he returned. I know it doesn’t get talked about a lot, but some of the defensive plays he made on the trip were pretty slick.
By bravesfan
August 1, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this
LINEUP’S
W Rodriguez, P
Y Escobar, 2B
By Chris
August 1, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this
So Thorman is really our postseason backup? Ouch. Guess that left-handed bat weighed heavily (though not as heavy as Julio’s bat).
By Fred from CT
August 1, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this
tex clean up tonight aj 5
By ncscoots
August 1, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this
Lew, enough, man, LOL. Andrus was part of the trade, and I’m good with that…I’m certainly not gonna keep bringing him up like the Wilson Betemit man-lovers hereabouts. :-) Whaddya say we grab a soda and kneecap some trolls, eh? N’est-ce pas? I’m READY!
By Bob
August 1, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop,
I agree on Anders. Actually enjoyed the exchanges between Lew and Anders. It frankly is refreshing to have a Met fan who is an adult and can back up his opinions. Tonight we have the liklihood of getting Drooler back on the site…at least until the Metsies lose again.
Too bad about Julio. My heart wanted him to stay, but I do really think it is probably the lesser of evils. Woodward, despite his problems does give us more infield options and we just couldn’t give away Thorman. He is still a young guy and we already departed a bunch of those guys this week.
Am excited as hell about Tex and the rest. Haven’t seen this much excitement since the Big Cat was here. Should be fun.
By Chop Chop
August 1, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this
With Thorman’s left-handed pop off the bench and lack of options and Julio needing some consistent ABs to stay sharp, I have a feeling Julio knew he was going down to Richmond if the Braves acquired a first baseman at the deadline. He’s still got something left and the Braves would probably rather not let him waste away like the Mets did. Assuming that no one else picks him up (which seems very likely), he should be able to stay ready down at Richmond for a September call-up.
By Lew
August 1, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this
Oh, The Humanity-The Grinch MUST have his yellow clown shoes on tonight. All that Bravado (or is that Brave-ado?).
By bravesfan
August 1, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this
Sorry about the post. Lets try this again.
LINEUP’S
C Burke, 2B M Loretta, SS L Berkman, RF C Lee, LF M Lamb, 1B T Wigginton, 3B J Lane, CF B Ausmus, C W Rodriguez, P
Y Escobar, 2B E Renteria, SS C Jones, 3B M Teixeira, 1B A Jones, CF J Francoeur, RF B McCann, C M Diaz, LF B Carlyle, P
By Paladin
August 1, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this
Lew and Grinch…Easy! We are on the same team, remember?
By doc
August 1, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this
well big john did his job now it is time for the bravos to do what they havent done in two years, put together a lengthy winning streak or binge to the tune of 15 of the next 20. the pitching has hurt them in this regard but maybe the bats can overcome the soft throw arms at the bottom of the rotation.
cant wait to see tex play and it is great to think about him in a braves uni for the next year as well. got to wonder if johnson wont see left field again if willie goes to center and allow escabar to fill in at second until his time comes at short. a johnson, diaz, edgar escobar rotation will do us well next year and maybe allow tex to be signed for the bucks. love andruw but i would take tex over him in a heartbeat as he is a few years younger and we would have him during what could be his peak years just as we did with andruw.
i tell you if this team goes on a tear i am going to the ballpark and get rest of the season season tickets and get ready for another world series. sure would have been beautiful if bronson could have been had. i would have been cheking the lines in las vegas and i dont bet. btw way to go dob for digging in here the last few days and keeping us abreast of the talk.
surprised franco went down after they gave him so much at bat time to where he was looking respectable at the plate and more so than woodward has shown us this whole season. escobar could fill any void there if they were to let woody go. even with that really good choices to get for the stretch run.
By Jeff
August 1, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this
This shouldn’t be a Thorman vs. Franco debate. This should be a Woodward vs. Franco debate. We don’t need Woodward with Escobar, etc. Plus other options coming in Sept.
Furthermore, Franco is a good PHer while Woodward is awful off the bench. In fact, Woodward is hitting .133 for us in 30 PH AB’s this year.
This move tells me Woodward is favorite of Cox’s and he’s going to keep him no matter what. But personally I think this move stinks and Franco deserves better.
PS: Franco has hit over .300 his last 7 games too!
By Todd A
August 1, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this
Wow…I’m really surprised it was Julio designated for assignment instead of Thorman.Guess it makes sense to keep Woodward,because Escobar is the only other reserve middle infielder.Looks like Randolph was right again.Earlier in the year he expressed doubt when many were proclaiming the Braves back after a hot start.
By TennesseePaul
August 1, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this
DOB: Thanks for the blog. It’s been a hiatus worth living for me. I went to the Angeles/Tigers game on Saturday. Great game with a massive late game explosion. Then took off to Oakland and watched a Tigers/A’s game. Saw our boy Macay McBride take the mound and promptly blow the game for the Tigers. Came back to check the trade status and saw Wilfredo was out the door. So that’s all good.
Teixeira to the Braves for the entire minor league system. Interesting trade, but I gotta say I like it. I can’t wait to see the results. I love the bullpen up grades. I like our chances. The boys still have to perform. Nothing is given in this game.
The Smashing Pumpkins at the Fillmore. Amazing. They played for over 3 hours. They played nearly every one of my favorite songs. It was amazing. Some of the stuff they played was new-as-yet-to-be-released material. Billy spoke a bit about the reasoning behind the reformation. I gotta say, I’m excited to see what they do with it. Those new songs were great. Simply an incredible show. I was able to record a few parts of it with my camera. Couldn’t manage the whole 3 hours. And, not having a great system, the sound didn’t turn out terribly well. But the images are great. I have some cool photos as well. And the Fillmore hands out the posters after the show. Those were cool. Just a blast man. Absolutely incredible.
Alright Bravos! Time to turn it up a notch and destroy the competition. No more excuses. Just winning.
GO BRAVES!!!
By Paladin
August 1, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this
I think sending Julio down SUCKS. But, as I alluded to yesterday: JS rings the ding dong on this locomotive and the rest of us can just stick our heads in the firebox, and blow.
By Interested Observer
August 1, 2007 6:27 PM | Link to this
Don’t get me wrong, I’m excited about the moves that were made yesterday. But you have to wonder about our bench….Thorman, Woodward, and Corky Miller?? Not exactly going to instill fear into opposing managers.
By kx
August 1, 2007 6:27 PM | Link to this
really don’t understand the julio move. i thought it would be thorman all along, because for reasons that are unclear, bc is in love with woodward. i mean it has to be more than just that woodward can play all the infield positions. maybe he’s a really good clubhouse guy. anyway, i understand that thorman is out of options and with his young age that he’ll most likely not clear waivers. i understand that thorman is the only lefty off the bench, if harris and kj are in the line-up. but currently thorman is really not doing much in the pinch-hitting role. sure, he hit that pinch-hit hr few days ago, but more often than not you see thorman going down swinging on a low slider or something. it just doesn’t make sense to have played julio all this time; i mean is the new plan to keep julio “fresh” by playing him everyday in AAA? honestly, they better have convinced julio into this. no need to suddenly garner a bad rep by putting a guy they signed some 10 days ago on waivers, after years of agonizing decisions to keep worthless cogs (lockhart, orr, et al.) just to be loyal.
By bravesfan
August 1, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this
Salty in Texas lineup batting 7th playing 1st base
By BraveintheDesert
August 1, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this
Frequent reader, first time poster…looks like the great platoon sharade continues. Johnson goes 4-4, 2HR, 5 RBI’s, and sits tonight. I mean, I think Escobar is great and all, but come on, we sit a guy who has 11 RBI’s in the past 10 games?
On a much lighter note, I wasn’t there cause unfortunately I moved from Athens out to Vegas a year ago, but a friend of mine at the game last night said the standing ovation Tex got gave him chills…if one man can put that much life into a Tuesday night game at the Ted, imagine the impact on the team! 2007 playoffs, here we come!
By Sir Stealth
August 1, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this
Sucks that Julio was picked - that’s the only move I’ve been unhappy with so far. Hope he comes back soon.
Of all the silly reasons that people have given for hating on the Tex trade, invoking Addam Laroche has to be the biggest joke. Believe me, I know what his stats were at the end of last year. I also watched him the entire time, and pretty much remember a long series of excruciatingly ill-time strikeouts and double plays. Please please please cease with the longing for Ladouche, Capellan, Willy B, Bruce Chen, Tony Tarasco and all the other stiffs that JS has dumped on other teams. Maybe we can round all these guys up with the 2 good players and 1 decent player out of the 100 we have traded away and invite them to our World Series parade.
By Wolfpack Man
August 1, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this
Like everyone else, I am surprised about Julio as well. I thought about that situation today and if they can clear him on waivers it is probably the right decision because they will not really lose him- I don’t think.
If he clears waivers, then you can bring him back right before the rosters expand and I would expect them to have only 10 or 11 pitchers on the roster for Aug. 31 (I think I understand the rule there, but am not 100% sure).
So basically, they would be losing Thorman in order to have Julio as a pinch hitter instead for the next 27 games.
So, the only way to have Julio and Thorman on the bench in the playoffs (if they get there), is to make this decision.
Also, they could give Julio everyday playing time in Richmond for the next month (if things workout that way) and that may put him in position to be more productive in September and October.
I just have a hard time believing that Julio’s reign with the Braves will end this way.
By yars
August 1, 2007 6:30 PM | Link to this
I’m glad the Braves didn’t give up on Thorman. I was thinking he would have been the odd man out. Woodward is needed just in case Chipper goes down again. We all know Escobar would take over at 3B, & Woodward would be next on the depth chart. It would be wise to leave the Harris/Diaz platoon in LF alone. I know Harris can play 2B & 3B, but I see Bobby only playing him in the OF. All Franco can play is 1B. I know he has experience at 2B, SS, & I think 3B, but let’s be realistic, no way Bobby would ever use him at those positions.
By Adam
August 1, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this
Well, thats what happens when you have alot of talent, you have to make some tough decisions, but its the right one. For one thing, unless Tex gets injured, we’re not going to have to worry about a backup first baseman. And yes, I hate Woodward as much as the next person, but if we cut him we would have one utilitly infielder, either Yunel of Kelly, whichever one isn’t starting. So you have to keep Woodward and its not like Julio is our future or anything, might as well keep the young guy.
By ncscoots
August 1, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this
Grinch, you know, I got to thinking about it, and this team as constituted actually gives me more confidence about the postseason than the regular season. Totally different than most years. Two studs at the front of the rotation twirling 3 or 4 games a series; a top-notch late-inning bullpen; and several guys in the lineup who can hit for average. That’s a pretty sick recipe for playoff success, if they don’t have to gas out just to make the dance. We’ve been saying “3 back” for so long that I’ll admit to just a wee smidgen of doubt on a bad day, LOL.
By Adam
August 1, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this
Well, thats what happens when you have alot of talent, you have to make some tough decisions, but its the right one. For one thing, unless Tex gets injured, we’re not going to have to worry about a backup first baseman. And yes, I hate Woodward as much as the next person, but if we cut him we would have one utilitly infielder, either Yunel of Kelly, whichever one isn’t starting. So you have to keep Woodward and its not like Julio is our future or anything, might as well keep the young guy. Also those people saying Willie Harris can play infield, when has he ever played in the infield? You can’t just throw him in there and expect good results.
By Lew
August 1, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this
Paladin-Have no fear. Grinch is one of my best friends-just got off the phone with him. It’s all a put on DUDE. No worries, at all.
By Sir Stealth
August 1, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this
I completely agree with people who don’t get why Julio has to get axed, after all that coming home crap and a nice performance, when we could use his leadership for our big push and hopefully the postseason, just so Woodward can stay around.
As others have said, we have Escobar to backup the infield. If someone gets hurt, we could just call up Pete Orr. Hell, hasn’t Wille C. played infield. No reason for Julio to have to go. But i guess if JS had to do something disagreeable let this be it.
By Chris
August 1, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this
Has anyone seen Franco make contact with the ball and send it to the left side of second base?
Neither have I.
By Ron
August 1, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this
Mark No I understood what he was getting at, but you have to trade something good to get something good!!! Hell if we traded our WHOLE damn minors for one player that SCOUT would probably say the EXACT same thing about the whole system!!! That is what it looked like to me!!! The way he said it, it seemed no matter WHO we traded that person would be GARBAGE!!! Sometimes JS has to trad VERY good players for a Great player!!! Maybe the scout has never heard about that before!!! Remember Jermaine Dye, and Wainwright, and Jason Shmidt? So NOT all players he trades are gonna be duds!!! That scout is an idiot!!! Do you understand what I am getting at?
By TheSouthernJackAss
August 1, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this
Lew—that’s especially true when said pi$$er is doin’ said pi$$in’ from a squattin’ position…
By Chop Chop
August 1, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this
Jeff, it came down to the Braves wanting to keep a utility infielder over a guy who can only play first base. Woodward is awful and shouldn’t be on this team, but Julio can’t play any other positions. I’m not saying that I agree with the move (I absolutely, positively mother$!##@^& don’t), but that’s probably why it was made.
By Anders
August 1, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this
Sorry boys, couldn’t resist signing back on. Since Woodward and Franco are both Met cast offs I’m here to tell you JS will find better clearing through waivers in the next week or so. Don’t sweat it. Neither one helped down the stretch last year.
By Bob
August 1, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this
One of you smart guys, answer this for me. Can the Mets claim Julio? They are ahead of the Bravos in the standings and I thought the Braves could stop it if they wanted to. Not exactly sure how that works.
Am just kidding…I think, but seeing how well Julio played for us, they might want to keep us from getting him back in September. Really do hate to see him from going down after what he has done the past 3 weeks.
By Lew
August 1, 2007 6:41 PM | Link to this
SCoots-You know I can’t NOT make my point (and likely bludgeon you with it). Trolling sounds like fun, but soda is a real bad thing. Well have tea or coffee instead.
By Ron Roberts
August 1, 2007 6:41 PM | Link to this
Well, the Braves certainly don’t need three 1B, and Franco and Thorman play that position, exclusively, so with Thorman being out of options and with more upside potential than Julio, Franco had to be the guy to go.
I’m not proud of the decision, but I understand it. Chris Woodward can play more positions, if need be, than either Thorman or Franco, so the decision had to come down to those two 1B backups.
I’m still shocked, though, that Bobby didn’t sacrifice our depth at another position to keep Julio with the team, somehow.
By Dawg88
August 1, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this
This move with Julio has me angry and disgusted! The decision was not between JF and Thorman. It should have been between keeping JF or Woodward. I have nothing against Woodward but he is horrible!
Don’t give me the argument that says we need him because he plays alot of positions. So we keep him even though if he does have to play its an automatic out! He has no value!
Esocabar could have played that role. This move makes me more convinced that its time for new blood at the top (BC). I am tired of his lame decisions which make no sense. No wonder we’ve only won 1 WS.
This roster move is stupid!!! Period! I hope Julio walks again. Why hang around when getting treated like this!
By David O'Brien
August 1, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this
Ron, glad you’re taking a level-headed approach to the Salty trade (5:35 p.m.)
Somewhere between that scout’s statement and the breathless predictions of Salty being “the next Johnny Bench” by someone on this blog, most likely lies the eventual truth.
I think he’ll be a good or very good player for a long time. NOT the next Johnny Bench, but a very good player.
By the way, just out of curiosity, I went back and looked up Bench’s stats. And keep in mind, this was an era when 30 homers made you an absolute superstar power hitter.
In 1968, at age 21, Bench hit .293 with 26 homers and 90 RBIs for the Reds and made the All-Star team.
At 22, he hit .293 with 35 doubles, 45 homers and 148 RBIs and, oh yeah, won the MVP award.
At 24 (1972), he had 40 homers, 125 RBIs and 100 walks and won the MVP award — again.
There’s no “next Johnny Bench” on the horizon, boys. Not Mauer, not McCann, and not Salty. Not until they start stringing together seasons like the great Bench had, and again, he did it in an era when 30-40 homers was an elite power hitter. Thirty homers today does not make one an elite power hitter.
By jbutler
August 1, 2007 6:46 PM | Link to this
JF got the horses head. Think that’s game/set/match for him? I hope he gets to go out on his own terms - not this way.
By David O'Brien
August 1, 2007 6:48 PM | Link to this
Chris, Julio’s two-run single in his first game back with the Braves was to the left side of second base, to left-center field.
And by the way, why does it matter? He’s made a lot of money over a lot of years hitting the ball the other way. That’s what he does.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
August 1, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this
I must agree with those who believe the DFA of Julio was a front office move. If they cut Woodward they are paying him about 1 million for the rest of the year. With Julio it is much less. I would think the only reason Julio would take the demotion is to get a head start on a possible coaching career.
It could be a good opportunity for him to show how he could benefit young players in the minors. Going to miss him in a Braves uniform but I will go see him play if he is assigned to Richmond.
By Anders
August 1, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this
Bob - There’s no way Julio goes back to the Mets. He was a Minaya guy not a Randolph guy. He was disruptive in the clubhouse. When Minaya fired Rick Downs the hitting coach and one of Randolphs best friend after the All Star break Randolph wanted Franco gone. Turns out he was only tolerating him for Minaya. That deal went out the window when Down went out the window. This is not just hearsay - The Mets beat reporter Ed Coleman backed it up on the Radio
By David O'Brien
August 1, 2007 6:54 PM | Link to this
Oh, almost forgot. In case you’ve not heard, here’s the lineup:
I asked Bobby and he said, yes, Kelly would bat 8th if he was in the lineup. Not a bad No. 8 hitter, eh?
Also said he didn’t know if it’d stay the same in the middle, but I’m betting it does for the forseeable future.
Andruw was fine about it. Had no complaint whatsoever when I talked to him about it (I mean, how could he complain, really?)
By Niekro35
August 1, 2007 6:54 PM | Link to this
Woodward is the new Keith Lockhart. He’s never going away.
By ernesto
August 1, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this
Andruw hitting in front of McCann or Francour is ridiculous. Welcome to the ATL big Tex, good luck getting a pitch to hit.
You could make a case for Diaz hitting in front of Outdruw too.
By Greg in TN
August 1, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this
Evening gang…
No need to play Talking Heads over the Turner Field PA tonight, all seems well in the club level, however there are many out in the Braves Nation that want to look at the events in ‘93 when old Fulton County burned and hope for the same result, certainly not in the suites around home plate, but definitely on the field tonight and in the weeks to come.
Will lightning strike twice just across Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard and to the south? Ahhhh, this is where we find out denizens. A formidable lineup awaits Wandy Rodriguez tonight with Tex hitting cleanup, AJ fifth, Frenchy sixth and McCann and Diaz before Buddy Carlyle.
We’ve been looking to yesterday’s date with a great amount of anticipation and now the moves have been made. Put up or shut up time in the NL East, folks. I have faith in these guys, however I realize, much like all of the regular denizens that post here and the thousands that read the delightful and fun Braves/MIB blog, that the Mets and Phillies won’t just roll over and wait for us to pass them.
The prize is there gang, let’s not take our eyes off of it, not for one minute. This franchise and these fans have taken our lumps in the past year, and gracefully so I might add. Now, it’s time to show baseball that the news of our demise was greatly exaggerated.
I’m disappointed to see that Julio Franco is the odd man out, however I understand the move. Play one position, no matter how well, and there’s always a chance somebody better will be there soon. If you’re able to play a multitude of positions, you’ll have more longevity. Will Julio clear waivers? I don’t know, but I know the franchise is hoping he does, because his presence would be ideal when it’s time to expand the rosters in a month.
A lot on the post tonight, folks, so please excuse the length, but one last thought before I make way for others. Is yesterday just a prelude to October?
We find out starting tonight.
By mdunaway
August 1, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this
Good point DOB — and I also seem to remember the Yankees beating the Braves in a World Series with seemingly every damn batter hitting balls the other way…
By ernesto
August 1, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this
What are you guys talking about Woodward rakes!
And he also weeds, and does some good work with shrubs.
Can’t hit a baseball to save his life though.
But why would we carry 3 first basemen?
That’s silly. If you don’t have Woodward you can’t use KJ or Escobar as a pinch hitter, b/c they’d be the only back up infielder you have.
By ncscoots
August 1, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this
KJ hitting 8…gods be merciful, that way lies utter madness. Kafkaesque, in fact.
By BravesDave
August 1, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this
Julio vs. Woodward…no contest. This is a very questionable move. Just like the Corky Miller move is highly questionable. I do not want to see any lineup with Corky Miller in it. Nor do I want to see Corky Miller pinch hitting in extra innings or some other important spot. Dumping Julio makes no sense. He would have been our top pinch hitter. Thorman can play the outfield in a pinch (as he did throughout the minors). Woodward is useless with Escobar settled in as a potential backup for 2B, 3B, and SS. This a bad move. Our bench now with Corky Miller, Thorman, and Woodward is absolute crap. It would look a lot better with Pena, Franco, and Thorman.
By woogidy
August 1, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this
Finally weighing in on the trades…
Under-mentioned Point #1 - This gives the Braves two good, if not great chances to get to and/or win the World Series. This team may need a center fielder next season, but the lineup pretty much stays in tact.
Andruw’s poor season may even have him considering a one year deal to get his market value back up, especially considering his affection for Bobby with the possibilites that it will be Bobby’s final season.
The rotation could be addressed in the offseason with Hampton and a Renteria trade to open up SS for Yunel.
Let’s go to the “TED” and cheer on this team to a WS Title. Let’s heckle the other team too while we’re at it!
By bravesfan
August 1, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this
Just to let yall know Tex is 0 for 6 vs Wandy Rodriguez with 3 strikeouts
By Aaron
August 1, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this
Just went to the Rangers’ website. Salty’s in the starting lineup tonight…playing 1st. Interesting, huh?
By BravesDave
August 1, 2007 7:14 PM | Link to this
I do remember that when Julio was re-signed by the Braves, he said that if it hadn’t been Atlanta, he would have retired. Maybe he has already told the front office that he will not sign with another team, if claimed. What happens if another team claims him and he refuses to sign with that team?? Does that team hold his rights and would that team be able to prevent him from going back to the Braves when the rosters expand???
I was against the move to bring him back as the primary first baseman, but now I am definitely against the move to drop him as the primary pinch hitter/backup. Mainly because I hate Chris Woodward with a searing passion.
By Dave knockahomer
August 1, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this
Julio was our bench! Woodward should have been let loose; NOT JULIO. dumb a## mistake! we have NO bench worth discussing and with only two true starters, we will need guys to pinch hit. what we got? Woodward, Miller and Thorman……none hit well at all. Julio was hitting! stupid dumb a## move! stupid…..I am disgusted. and to show you how disgusted……tonight, Teixiera or however you spell his name [just learned how to spell Saltalamacchia!]. anyway, Tex is coming from a hitter friendly ball park to a non-hitter friendly ball park. plus an american leaguer coming into the national league…..we have several of those who flunked royally, BUT I am pulling for Tex because we need his defense and I pray he can figure out how to hit at The Ted against National league pitchers. should be a fun time. In the meantime”
JS….YOU ARE A STUPID DUMB A## for letting Julio go….. jerk
By Carolina Lady
August 1, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this
Posted this morning on the previous blog, I really feel that it bears repeating:
*All right, you guys. YOU are allowing Mets fans to walk in and take total control of this blog. You.
One or two stroll by and it’s like a kid poking a stick into a cage of dogs. He stands outside jabbing and the dogs snap, snarl and bark incessantly making a lot of noise, accomplishing nothing, and giving the kid exactly what he wanted. He wins, you lose.
Do you really think anybody else will spend time reading that?
Take back control of your blog with self control. Do NOT respond to their jabbing probes; they only want to rile you up and get great enjoyment in doing so.
Serbok, left another message somewhere along the way - the key was to get OUT of the doghouse. :-)*
Most people come here for news of and to discuss BRAVES. It is getting to the point that the majority of the posts now discuss the Mets with Mets fans.
Don’t know about the rest of you but I’m fed up with the invasion and continual battle of words with misplaced people taking over the blog. It’s irritating, offers no enjoyment to Braves fans. If it’s to be a Braves/Mets blog, so be it. Change the name and purpose.
Lew, I love you, my friend, but I’d like to offer the thought that the reason you are selected for personal attacks by these people is that the kid with the stick jabs most energetically at the dog who barks the loudest, which pleases him the most. Just something to think about. And I DO love you! :-)
I think it’s time for a loooooooong vacation for this lady. See y’all later.
By woogidy
August 1, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this
Salty - single, 2 rbi in first AB as a ranger.
By bravesfan
August 1, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this
Salty just singled in 2 runs in his first at bat as a Texas Ranger
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this
Franco was sent down instead of Thorman for a couple reasons. I doubt anyone else will pick up Franco, if they do w/i 10 days it has to be a trade. After that he has to agree and he knows he’s coming back when the rosters expand. As for Thor, he will probably be moved in a wire trade. Seems about right!!
By jwshults
August 1, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this
Good luck to Salty! He just got a 2-run single on his first at bat in Texas.
Start Salty indeed!
By yars
August 1, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this
The Braves decided to keep Thorman over **Julio Franco. Thor has a future. Julio doesn’t. It’s time Julio calls it a game. His days playing are all but over. He’ll find a job coaching in the low minors, working his way up the ladder so he can one day become a MLB manager.
By Bob
August 1, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this
Anders,
Thanks guy. I was just kidding anyway. Had heard from my friends in NY that this was the case.
By Logan23
August 1, 2007 7:21 PM | Link to this
Salty with a single and 2rbi’s in the first
By bravesfan
August 1, 2007 7:22 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB you were saying a while back there was a scout that would take Kyle Davies since he has now been traded can you tell us who it was?
By Paladin
August 1, 2007 7:24 PM | Link to this
Lew I’m glad you and Grinch kissed and made up. I tried it with him one time and he tried to give me some tongue. PSSSSSSSSt. :-)
By Salty
August 1, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this
Wouldn’t designating Julio make the most sense solely because he would clear waivers? He could stick around…get some at bats at Rome even. If someone goes to the DL, he’s available again.
Also, provided he clears, then they place Woodward or Thorman on waivers to see if there are takers. Face it, Thorman is now blocked, but simply having him claimed without something in trade isn’t practical.
Perhaps this is the best route to prepping the post-season eligible roster. Who would you rather have coming off the bench: Thor, Woodward, Miller, or Julio? Perhaps this doesn’t look as bleak as at first blush. Also, I admit to not knowing all the intricasies of player moves/post season eligibility, although I think August 31 is a drop dead date, with some provision for injuries.
By TexasBrave
August 1, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this
Sad to here about Julio. But I don’t think it was because Woodward is BC’s favorite as some have stated. BC loves Julio or he would not have been brought back in the first place. I don’t think JS or BC saw this coming when they signed Julio. I am sure it was a very tough decision and one not made lightly. But in the end even with Escobar and Willie able to play the infield you have to keep Woodward for insurance. Because we all know that if it came down to who is the better pinch hitter then it would be Woodward down instead. Who here thinks Julio’s at bat’s yesterday were a thank you but we have got to let you go? I mean if they knew that they were going to keep Thorman it would have made more since to put him in the line up yesterday to get him some more at bats before Tex’s arrival.
On another note, although I am not shocked I am a little dismayed that AJ is hitting 5th behind Tex. He should be hitting at least 6th so Frenchy or McCann can protect Tex. But BC is showing AJ some loyality.
By Ron
August 1, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this
DOB Your probably right about Salty!!! No way is he gonna be the next Bench, but he will be better than what that scout said about him!!! He will be a very very good player!!! Although he probably will NEVER be as good as Tex!!! But hell Tex is the Top 5 First Baseman in the game!!! Although IF Texas Keeps Salty behind the plate, I think he can MAYBE become a Top 5 Catcher 3-4 years down the road!!!
By Salty
August 1, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this
FairWeather I think you said what I tried, but far more concisely!
By Paladin
August 1, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this
I hear all of these wonderful reasons “why” Julio was sent down and “what” an overall benefit it will be, but what the hell do we do for a dependable pinch hitter in the meantime?
By s t i n k y
August 1, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this
Johnson hits 2 dingers and sits while a .216 hitter bats 5th.
By Salty
August 1, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this
Paladin The other halves of the two platoons are available: Harris/Diaz and Escobar/Johnson
Those aren’t bad…but…Julio’s experience in crunch time has real value.
By Dave knockahomer
August 1, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this
question for everyone regarding the lineup….. Tex may be hitting 4th tonight but knowing Bobby’s loyalty to Andruw, I expect Tex to be hitting fifth, behind Andruw any day now. Andruw B.A. stinks but dang, 68 rbi’s…..that ain’t bad. shall be interesting to see how long Teixiera lasts batting 4th.
any wagers?
By Lew
August 1, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this
Ma’am -You know I revel in your friendship, but I don’t care who jabs me with that stick-they better hope they don’t walk away without a hand. I promise, they are the ones that have the problem, not me.
By s t i n k y
August 1, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this
paladin, diaz or harris or escobar or johnson could pinchhit when not starting.
By Stuart
August 1, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this
Fellow road warriors, who may be braves fans, the mlb.tv package is only 29.99 for the rest of the year. It is working great over a wireless that is average at best. I had to get it for tonight, for tex, and for the braves.
By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)
August 1, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this
Goos move keeping Thorman. We have no guarantee that Teixeira will be a Brave beyond 2008. Salty is a stud and I’ll say it one more time , there has never been a switch hitting , slugging , rifle armed catcher with his potential in MLB history. Quite simply , Salty has no ceiling and only time will tell how adept he gets at calling a game. Apparently some have already forgotten about his two HR game with the Braves earlier this season. Time for this team to put up or shut up and for the Braves to kick some A$$ !!!
By Paladin
August 1, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this
Ok, Salty, those scenarios have merit, but I was one of the biggest of the bring Whoolie back bunch, and I’m hurting ‘cause he’s gone.
By Superman
August 1, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this
If Andruw gets moved back to cleanup I say we all go to atlanta and form a huge protest
By Train Wreck Bystander
August 1, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this
Designating Julio Franco is just bad karma. Tsk tsk.
Looking foward to watching this game tonight.
By Chris
August 1, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this
I’ll wager, Dave. You won’t see Tex out of the 4 hole this year, unless he isn’t playing for some reason.
By Greg in TN
August 1, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this
Hindsight being what it is, happy that we didn’t end up with Jose Contreras. Anybody catch his line from yesterday at Yankee Stadium?
2.2 IP, 8 H, 7 ERs, 1 BB, 2 Ks, 3 HRs.
Bases juiced for Tex.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this
Tex up w/ bags loaded!!!!!!!!!
By Chris
August 1, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this
RBI for Tex in 1st AB.
Wow, patience at the 4 spot. Awesome.
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 7:54 PM | Link to this
There goes your first RBI.
Hope you can do the same trick AJ
By Greg in TN
August 1, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this
500th career RBI by Tex on of all things, a bases loaded walk. Haven’t seen that kind of plate discipline in a while from the four hole.
By keylargo25
August 1, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this
Base loaded and no one out. AJ at bat. I wish it was Francouer, McCann, and Diaz then AJ.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this
RBI in 1st at bat. I’ll take it. Now AJ will hit the slam!!!
By A-ville Ranger
August 1, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this
This first inning with Teixeira should be the template for the rest of the season.Like the announcers said wear the pitcher out.Just grind them down with patience and great plate coverage,more 98 Skankee like than a typical Braves team.
By Greg in TN
August 1, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this
AJ with a nice RBI single. Rodriquez is missing the corners badly.
By Chris
August 1, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this
I meant “PA,” not “AB.” But you baseball fans know what I meant.
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this
Hope there is not much people wondering about the trade tonight.
Even AJ looked better right there, maybe as he becomes more relaxed.
This is proof right there of the amainzing scoring maching we now have.
By Chris
August 1, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this
Dude can’t get an out. Awesome.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this
I felt the wind from Frenchy’s swing in NC. Nice swing by AJ huh..
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this
Lets kick muts azz brewers. Lets see some scared faces on ESPN tonight.
By Greg in TN
August 1, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this
Great hustle by Yunel Escobar at the top of the lineup and just now by Diaz by being aggressive and taking the extra base.
Always enjoy the nights where your pitcher gets his first at-bat in the first inning.
By Tomahawkin' Again
August 1, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this
When do playoff tickets go on sale? Oh, Mut fans, it’s on like Donkey Kong!
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this
I believe everyone but Escobar has had 2 K’s
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this
Keylargo…. i guess is good that AJ is at 5th spot, he has more experience and pitchers fear him more than brian and jeff…… its just a matter that AJ relaxes and understand that he can take some pitches now.
This is looking pretty good, even thoug it not nolan ryan upthere on the hill, a week ago we would be in the 3rd inning 0-0 or in the 2nd losing 2-0. different scenario now.
Go braves.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this
I don’t know who was on here earlier today but I projected a win by 5+ runs. I know it is just the 1st inning but a good start. I’d like to say our lineup is pumped up and that is why all the runs, and I’m sure that is somewhat the case. Wandy is helping us out some though. Wow, there goes Escobar again. He’s not going anywhere anytime soon.
By SteelCav
August 1, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this
You know the Mets are watching the scoreboard…and crapping their parachute pants.
By Ben
August 1, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this
Great first inning. 55 pitches for Rodriquez. Their bullpen is going to see plenty of action.
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this
Whos pitching for the braves?
I already forgot……..oh right….Buddy.
Sorry but i needed to talk like that for a long time…….hahahaha
By Chris
August 1, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this
Only place Escobar is going is into the starting lineup at SS (either in ‘09 or ‘10 if the Braves pick up Edgar’s option year in ‘09.)
Dude’s a stud.
By The Drifter
August 1, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this
This line-up reminds me of a “Killer’s Row” of batting. Opposing pitchers have to be concerned from 1 through 8.
By Steve from OH
August 1, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this
I guess Wandy Rodriguez is excited about the Tex deal, too.
By Braves Fan 79
August 1, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this
Damn i was in a great mood till i got home and found out they sent Franco down. WTF!! And more people agree with the move than dont…ARE YALL RETARTED!!!???
So in the playoffs when we need a RBI and we send up a pitchitter you would rather see WOODCRAP than Franco!?? STUPID!! Yeah lets send up a .150 pitchitter with 1 double, 1 triple, 1 hr, 7 rbis, in over 60 games played! (not to mention 2 of the past 3 years hes had a batting average around .215) If thats not terrible i dont know what is! THE ONLY HITS WOODCRAP EVER GETS ARE IN BLOWOUTS! IVE NEVER SEEN HIM COME THRU IN THE CLUTCH! But when you think of Julio you think of what? a CLUTCH HITTER…a former batting champion with some skill left. Man…Terrible move!
Forget making Julio a coach, make woodcrap the WATERBOY!!
By A-ville Ranger
August 1, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this
The Astors pitcher looked absolutely shell shocked coming off the field.I want opposing pitchers to lie awake the night before they start against this lineup.It will be like a good tenderizer before they’re thrown in the pan.
By Stuart
August 1, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this
The Mets think the light at the end of the tunnel is Pedro returning, but it aint, its the Braves train led by tex and chipper to run their a* over.
BTW, 3-0 Brewers on a Fielder BOMB!!! Market correction on Oliver Perez anyone????
By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist
August 1, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this
bobby’s giving k.j. every opportunity to cool off after last night’s heroics - but look at escobar! look at diaz! this is a hitting team. if they have just enough pitching it will be hard for teams to outscore them the rest of the way. and the blogger calling lew a lew-ser reminds this journalist of a previous ugly blogger who used that term. hmmm…
and now, tushy dealt the cards one by one and looked into the eyes of the other players as they received their cards. who would get the old maid? tushy threw a card in front of hoss and hoss lifted the corner to see what hoss had been dealt. it began as a quiver, a twitch if you will, a slightly perceptible involuntary movement of the chin and chin hair. tushy now knew who held the old maid - one who had never been dealt an old maid before.
more later.
By The Truth Hurts
August 1, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this
I’m as excited as anyone, but can we please temper the playoff/WS talk?
One game at a time.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this
That might be the 1st time I’ve seen a guy walk and K in the same inning.
When people talk about the kind of player Francoeur is you can’t forget to mention that arm of his. Last week some were talking on here about how Francoeur and Howard were going for the ROY award. 1 guy was saying how Howard got that much better and Frenchy has remained about the same. I beg to differ. He gave up some power to help his average and in turn give him more RBI’s. That is what he set out to do and he has done it. W/ that and his mean arm, he is a special player. He is very young to be able to want to change and help his game and then do so. We have a great group of young guys who will carry us for a long time. I put Kelly in that group too.
I think Tex will resign giving us young players to look forward to: Escobar, Kelly, Tex, McCann, Frenchy, Chuck, Jo-Jo, etc…. zcan you say All Star Team
By bravesfan
August 1, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this
HA HA Muts fan where you at now? ATL 7 TO 0 and o whats that 3 to 0 brewers over the Muts
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this
Well muts are losing……..seems like they are giving up already.
Shame……shame.
Supersuperstar Oliver Perez gave up 3 in the 1st.
Guess that means 2.5 by midnight….. hmm it is starting to look easier than we though.
By David
August 1, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this
The homer Prince Fielder just hit off of Oliver Perez is one of the most impressive I’ve ever seen. It was 40 feet up the scoreboard.
By Chris
August 1, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this
Truth hurts, no, we can’t.
People in this town are starved for a championship baseball team. Stop pooping on the optimism.
By Carolina Lady
August 1, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this
Lew, of course you are not the problem. It’s the juvenile mental cases who are. They enjoy sewing as much discord and any unpleasantness as possible by any means possible. I just get tired of wading through miles and miles of it on every blog. Thus, a vacation! Problem solved! :-)
Someone mentioned earlier that Teixeira resembled Gallarahga in profile. Yes! Uncannily so! Do we have a young Andres here?
Anyhow, later - CL out.
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this
Now bobby cox will win the division and will look like a hall of fame manager again……. come on………even miss daisy could drive this lineup to win the division.
By Chuck in NC
August 1, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this
To the folks who are complaining that the Braves dropped Franco, when was the last time he played shortstop?
Julio’s a great hitter but we need one backup in the infield besides Johnson/Escobar (and, yes, I know Harris has played some infield, but Woodward provides the team with many more substitution options).
By Chris
August 1, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this
Um, people, Woodward is our backup 3B. Franco was one of 2 backup 1B.
Do people actually watch baseball these days, or is everyone’s head to far up their arses?
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this
Id have to say Buddy could be the 3rd pitcher of more than half the teams in the big…..or am i wrong on this one? I feel very comfortable when i know its his turn, it is a win more often than not.
By SteelCav
August 1, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this
Eh, 4-3 Mets.
By Steve from OH
August 1, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this
I’m excited to see the culmination of Tushy and Hoss’ battle of wits.
By TheSouthernJackAss
August 1, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this
…and as soon as I hit the post button, that A$sClown Vargas hangs one, and now the Mutts are up by a run…Unbelievable!…
By The Grinch
August 1, 2007 8:39 PM | Link to this
Lew, you just had a real live girl tell you she really loved you; that automatically gives you more street cred than any of the Mets fans here (aside from MetroMan, who’s lovely other I met in person). You go, son.
Scoots, you completely lost 98% of the blog with your Kafkaesque post.
By bravesfan
August 1, 2007 8:39 PM | Link to this
Watching the game on gameday and Salty just missed a HR
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this
I was wondering as last week and the week before that……..What are the braves waiting to sign up matt diaz fo some 3 years at least? or have they already done that? if thats the case i apologize.
Muts have come all the way back and passed the brewers 4-3 in the 2nd.
By David O'Brien
August 1, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this
Steve from OH, sounds like you might be working through some issues.
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this
Is it just me or AJ seems more relaxed even running fly balls.
By David O'Brien
August 1, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this
Chris, you shouldn’t let logic stand in the way of a BOLD-FACED TIRADE POST. Come on, man. Go with it.
By SteelCav
August 1, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this
Wow, Shawn Green just fell on his face and allowed the go-ahead run to score from 1st with two outs. 5-4 Brewers…wtf?
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this
brewers tied muts 4-4…….
By ncscoots
August 1, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this
Righto, Grinch, I should have just said “freakin’ looney tunes”. The curse of a literary upbringing and a strange head, I guess.
I’m sending KJ copies of The Stranger and Steppenwolf, though. Dude might be in need of a little existential thought.
By A-ville Ranger
August 1, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this
Well we saw the best of this team now we’re seeing their Achilles’ heel.The better teams in the 90s didn’t have the all around hitters like this one.On the other hand if they got 7 in the first the game was over.
By David O'Brien
August 1, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this
Edgar has some POP. Straight center, that ball was stroked.
What a season he’s having. Sound move by those Red Sox, dumping him after one season….
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this
there goes 1st k for mark…… does anybody cares? i dont
By ernesto
August 1, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this
While the Red Sox are helping finance this tremendous year Edgar’s giving us - they are getting .221, 6 hr, 49 RBI, production out of Julio Lugo - and paying him soemthing like 8 or 9 mil a year for the privelege.
Thanks Theo.
By Braves Fan 79
August 1, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this
To everyone thinking we need woodward: We have a backup ss and 3rd baseman in Escobar, we have a backup 2nd baseman and 1st baseman already. The guy is a automatic out at the plate and not exactly ozzie smith in the field. Woodcrap should never be in the game unless were winning by 10 runs or getting blown out! As for another team picking up Julio…..any team needing a solid pitchitter would love to have the guy. ANYONE WHO THINKS THIS TEAM IS STRONGER WITH WOODCRAP OVER JULIO IS A IDIOT!
And why keep thorman over julio? I know thorman might be good in a few years….but arent we trying to win NOW!??
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this
DOB i think to this point edgar means to this team as much as chipper and smoltz, if he was injuried at some point we would be some 9, 10 games back.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this
Mets and Philly are both down by 1.
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this
Wow, the cubs are about to get Woods back from DL, Thise cubs dont look any easy.
By Colin
August 1, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this
WE ARE AMAZING!!!!!!!!
By SteelCav
August 1, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this
7-5 Mets…fun game.
By Steve from OH
August 1, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this
Hmm…I wonder why everyone wants to dump Edgar so badly. He’s probably our most consistent hitter, the spark that ignites our offense…I understand Yunel is good (I love him too) but he’s not an upgrade over Edgar. We definitely shouldn’t trade him, but he wouldn’t perform better than Edgar right now, so we can’t really justify getting rid of Edgar. The best strategy is to A) Wait until Edgar’s contract is over, or B) Wait until Edgar stops performing. Quite a quandry for JS, that’s for certain.
By JJMB
August 1, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this
It’s so nice to listen to Joe and Boog. Why can’t they just stick with these guys?
I hope for the best for those folks in Minn.
By Braves Fan 79
August 1, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this
Why cant Julio or Thorman play some 3rd in a blowout? Its not like if they DID commit a error that it would be costly if the games already out of reach anyways. (which is the only way chipper should be out of the game) And as far as a crunch time backup goes we have escobar. And everyone agrees that Renteria and chipper shouldnt ever be out of the lineup together when its crunch time. Sorry people but i still see NO use for woodcrap! And i SHURE AS HELL DONT WANNA SEE HIM BAT IN THE PLAYOFFS WITH 2 OUTS AND MEN ON BASE!!
By Colin
August 1, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this
Tex presence is making us hit the ball and he is 0-2.
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this
could anyone help me with a link to see IP by bullpen?
By Efrim
August 1, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this
What happened to Buddy???
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this
Oooopssss……. hope buddy is not seriously hurt.
By Ron
August 1, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this
Say it aint so!!! Buddy is hurt!!! Hope it aint too serious!!! Its bad enough JoJo is in the rotation, now we MIGHT have to bring Cormier up!!! OH THE HUMANITY!!!!!!!!!!!! JS get on the phones man!!! This aint good!!!
By A-ville Ranger
August 1, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this
Last year Frenchy wouldn’t have gotten a hit like that one.It’s amazing how much more complete he is at the plate now.This group of young regulars has a higher ceiling than the gang from the early 90s.They’re not just athletes,they’re becomimg polished players.
By JJMB
August 1, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this
GD someone swings a bat, and now they’re incapacitated. Modern players are made of glass. Maybe it’s the NAFTA-imported food?
By Scott Boras
August 1, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this
S**!!! If I make Andruw ask for too much, Tex will be p**. And if Tex goes, Andruw will hate me. F***!!!
By TexasBrave
August 1, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this
Hey can anyone watching the game tell me what happened to Buddy? Gameday doesn’t say what happened.
Thanks,
By JustDave
August 1, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this
The Braves blew it on this one. Tex is good but wasn’t worth unloading Salty. They should try to dump their cry-baby 3rd baseman who goes on the DL every time he gets a pimple. And the other Jones will be gone next season so the Braves will start 2008 weaker than they are right now. Cox needs to stop coddling his veterans and demand a little hustle from this group of aging prima donnas before they ruin the talented McCann, Frenchy and Johnson. Smoltz is the only veteran with any heart on the club. But I digress. Atlanta hasn’t had a major league first baseman in years but Tex has had some injury problems, does not have great numbers this year and will be a free agent after 2008. Salty is better off without this poorly managed team.
By \\\\\\\\\\BERIGAN//////////
August 1, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this
By Overlord August 1, 2007 9:02 PM | Wow, the cubs are about to get Woods back from DL, Thise cubs dont look any easy.
You are correct, they are much better than when we faced them earlier in the year. In fact, I would fear them more than most other teams in the NL come playoff time.
By Stark
August 1, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this
TB: pulled something in elbow last AB
By A-ville Ranger
August 1, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this
Anyboby else think Teixeira looks like Andres Galarraga ? I’m not thinking of his play (though he does have a similar stance).I mean the big ole, affable looking,puppy face.
By Andy
August 1, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Would Julio be available for the Braves playoff roster without losing Thorman because he is out of options? If anyone needed to go back to the minors, it’s Thorman! Hopefully Schuerholz will be able to trade Thorman for someone, hopefully a young pitcher, in the off-season.
As for Andruw, I would say he is gone after the season and the Braves should look to resign Teixeira to an extension. Hopefully we can find someone better than Willy Harris, who I like fine as a fourth outfielder, to play center next season.
Don’t you think we now have a good idea that Liberty is going to raise the payroll??
Thanks.
World Series Here We Come!!
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this
Texas Brave, he hyperextended his throwing elbow while batting, when he was throwing warmup pitches Cox saw something he didnt like and he sat him, but i didnt see him get any attention from trainers on bench as camera followed him, they have not reported anything yet.
By Ron
August 1, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this
TexasBrave He got hurt after taking a swing!!! Looked like his oblique!!! That is not good!!! JoJo is bad enough, now it might be Cormier starting too!!! We better outslugg the opponents by alot to win those games!!!
By \\\\\\\\\\BERIGAN//////////
August 1, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this
2 walks and a 3 run homer from Tex???? bring that AL style here Tex!!!!
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
August 1, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this
What was that I heard? What? Was that Tex hitting a homerun?! Uh-oh! Somebody’s scared!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Don’t worry, Mets fans. Nothing shameful about second place. Really!
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this
Booooooooom
See ya……..
welcome home Mark.
By Ron
August 1, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this
TEX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thats what Im talkin about!!! 4 RBI’s in this game!!! Welcome to Atlanta!!!
By Stuart
August 1, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this
The quandry over Renteria and Escobar will be solved by whichever guys brings in the biggest pitching haul next year. For example, if the White Sox want to trade Garland, or some other team for some other frontline SP for Escobar, I bet that deal gets done. However, if the braves can cut some salary in a trade for Renteria to sign a free agent P or Postion player elsewhere, Renteria will be gone, simple economics.
Speaking of simple economics, Tex 1-3 with 4 RBI, salty 1-3 2 RBI, advantage Bravos. Choo choo
By John B.
August 1, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this
I’d say Teixeira just left a pretty good impression on a lot of Braves’ fan.
By Superman
August 1, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this
I hate this damn comercial with all the damn YAWNING
zzzzzzzzz zzzzzzz zzzzzzzzz
By Ron H
August 1, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this
HOME RUN TEXEIRA!!!!! WOOOO HOOOOOO!!!!
4RBI SO FAR!
On a sad note, would like to say goodbye to FRANCO. Good luck, friend.
GOOO BRAVES!!!
By Colin
August 1, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this
TEX MY HOMEBOY HIT IT OPPO WOW WELCOME HOME TEX!!!!!
By Todd
August 1, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this
Why not get McCann out after this AB, get him some rest? He’s been playing a lot lately.
By Superman
August 1, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this
When was the last time we got 4 rbi from our 1st base spot???
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this
There was something i didnt liked about tex HR, afterward, he saluted chipper in the dogout and chipper didnt react to it, i hope he didnt see the salute.
By doc
August 1, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this
braves pitching just got a whole lot better. i dont get giddy often at my age but this could be magic or (re)lightening in a bottle
By Tomahawkin' Again
August 1, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this
They were just sucking up to the Braves on the Eastern Sports Programming Network after they showed Big Tex’s bomb. What momentum we have!
By B-MaC
August 1, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this
I thought I would wear Wicky’s pants tonight.
By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist
August 1, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this
bloggers: don’t miss the riveting “dog shoots man in back” video on the ajc.com home page. not man-in-black - dog shoots man in back. where was this dog during michael vick’s exploits?
oh, the humanity!
tushy has gone deep. welcome to atlanta, tushy.
where is the in-dugout microphone tonight? cannot tell what bobby called teixeira. bet it was tushy.
now, knowing that hoss held the old maid card and that chipper’s intentions could be read in the twitch of chipper’s chin … tushy continued to deal. a bead of perspiration dripped from chipper’s brow and settled onto the near-mizuno emblem on chipper’s chin - much like dew on a hairy melon in the field (cantaloupe). a formidable tension could be felt in the room. what would happen next?
and the players began to discard their pairs …
By JustDave
August 1, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this
Does anyone realize how screwed the Braves are if McCann can’t play? Another stupid move by Schuerholz - throwing away the future for a quick fix.
By A-ville Ranger
August 1, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this
I think it’s good to remember with all the excitment over Teixeira.Chipper is still the best hitter and the most important player in this lineup.
By Ron
August 1, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this
Anybody like the failed trade attempt of Wickman for Farnsworth? I dont like that mainly because I got mad because Farnsworth left to setup for the Yankees and he would have been OUR Closer!!! And we offered him a similar offer!!! I know Wickman is a little bit shakey, but I dont wont Farnsworth back!!! He had his chance!!!
By Ron H
August 1, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this
JustDave Two words: Homerun teixeira! Two more words: four rbi (ok, more like 4 or something) Two more words: Salty plays Two more words: chipper rocks Two more words: why don’t you just stay in philly or ny until we call you to get us a coke?
Two more words: GOOOOOOO BRAVES!
By The Grinch
August 1, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this
Man, that’s some BS. I duck out long enough to take a shower, and I got a knock sayin’ “Tex just hit a 3 run homer.” I hate it when that happens.
By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist
August 1, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this
let’s hope buddy is okay and it is not a hammock bone. doc was on here earlier. should have asked doc about hammock bones.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
August 1, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this
In the clubhouse after tonight’s game I assume you will hear a conversation that will go as follows:
Hudson: That Tex can hit ‘em can’t he?
Escobar: Si!
Chipper walking up to Escobar and Hudson: Man, that was some blast, huh?
Tex walking into the room: What’s up, guys?
Chipper walking over to shake Tex’s hand: That was some bomb, brother! Nice to have you aboard!
Thorman (signaling Tex to come over to his locker): Um, you are planning on leaving after 2008, aren’t you?
Tex: Huh? I don’t understand.
Thorman: Man, you are leaving for the money after 2008, right?
Tex: Maybe.
Thorman (slightly raising his voice): Maybe! Man, I need a job…er…I mean its nice to have you on the team.
Tex: Thanks, Scott. We are going to win a World Series together. Don’t worry. You’ll be great off the bench.
Chipper and Hudson kind of snicker and then walk over to Thorman.
Chipper: Man, don’t sweat it. I heard Brian Hunter thought firstbase was his until McGriff got here. He got used to being on the bench. It’ll be okay. Really.
Thorman: Yeah. Um, what happend to Brian Hunter.
Chipper: Man, I don’t know. He just faded into obscurity once McGriff got here.
Thorman: Oh…..
By Braves Fan 79
August 1, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this
Chuck u said “but Woodward provides the team with many more substitution options” i think i just threw up a little in my mouth hearing a so called Braves fan defend keeping a guy who alone has cost us at least 5 or 6 games this year by Bobby putting him in a clutch situation time after time after time…and can anyone remember ONE time the guy delivered when it actually ment something!?? I cant. Let me guess…u also thought redmen was a good signing? And after his first blowout start you were one of the pple saying…hey lets give this guy some time…hell come around! NOT!
By Todd
August 1, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this
For the record, Woodward sucks…
By JustDave
August 1, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this
Tex is definitely talented and most little leaguers would have been an improvement at first base. But Tex for Salty is just not the answer. The Braves are simply a 3rd place team this year and will probably ony sink lower in the standings over the next few years. Chipper will never step up and be a leader, regardless of the talent he has. He plays for himself (when he doesn’t have a sore toe, finger, ego, etc) and never for the team.
By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist
August 1, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this
oh, the humanity! jimmy smith had to watch that video again. that is some serious stuff for ajc.com’s front page. a most talented dog. was the dog on the roof like grinch? what kind of gun was this dog packing? good balance, easy to sight, not much recoil.
now, k.j. has a beautiful swing. andruw should study that swing. wrong side? would it matter?
By ernesto
August 1, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this
First look at Mahay.
By ACB
August 1, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this
The Braves blew it on this one. Tex is good but wasn’t worth unloading Salty. They should try to dump their cry-baby 3rd baseman who goes on the DL every time he gets a pimple. And the other Jones will be gone next season so the Braves will start 2008 weaker than they are right now.
Wwwhhoooaaa!!!
JustDave, way to harsh on everybody’s mellow, DUDE. The Brave Ones score 40 runs in 3 games and you go postal. Very uncool.
Look. Salty was righteous. But B-MaC is our man. Its in ink and Blood.
RX: 1 organic triple shroom pizza. 1 journey CD (preferably Escape). 1 Day of meditation on the 1995 Braves.
And maybe a setz bath (for obvious reasons).
By jimmy smith, ugndan journalist
August 1, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this
oh, the humanity! mahay reminds this journalist of mike stanton. this may be the year.
By MEB
August 1, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this
Hyper-extended elbow for Buddy and he will be listed as day-to-day. Good thing it wasn’t that hammock bone. Report didn’t mention anything about his toes, as we know toes are not to be trifled with.
Any chance that Mahay uses Mayday as a nickname? Mayday Mahay is kind of catchy. He looks like he can pitch.
GO BRAVES!!!
By David O'Brien
August 1, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this
Hyperextended right elbow for Carlyle. I’d guess it’s not too serious, since he went back out there to try to pitch in the sixth. But we’ll know more tomorrow.
He’s day-to-day (aren’t we all, blah blah blah). Let’s just say, that’s an important injury. Braves really can’t afford to lose him.
By Ron H
August 1, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this
Robert Justice, Two words: funny man
By \\\\\\\\\\BERIGAN//////////
August 1, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this
What did Yunel do that Andruw was talking to him about????
By A-ville Ranger
August 1, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this
I think Mahan could be the more important pickup over Dotel.I mean a calm,veteran, lefty reliever with a low era against lefties as well as righties,just what the doctor ordered.
By Chuck in NC
August 1, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this
You know, Braves Fan Since 79, you’re right. I’m pretty convinced that if the Braves still had Redman, we’d be in first place right now.
Just saying that Woodward plays more positions, and you might not have noticed this, but Woodward has a higher batting average than Julio. To say that Woodward has cost the Braves five or six games is just wrong. He wasn’t playing all eight outfield positions and pitching.
I like Julio, but to think that any other team is going to take a chance on him five days after every other team refused to do so makes no sense. He’ll be back in a Braves uni on September 1 if he chooses.
By Superman
August 1, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this
setz bath LOL thats frickin funny
By Todd
August 1, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this
Why is McCann in this game??
By \\\\\\\\\\BERIGAN//////////
August 1, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this
Can someone explain why we kept Thorman??? He won’t play at all at 1st if Tex plays every game like he did in Texas(except going on the DL this year) So, he will only pinch hit.
Can’t send him back to AAA. So….what is the point? To trade later? A possible left fielder next year? We could have kept Julio as a back up in case Tex got hurt. Nothing else really makes sense except to have traded him in July.
By HP
August 1, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this
If we are going to win now, then Julio should have been in our roster. I centinaly don’t like this move by JS. Thorman should have been designated for assignment. All he does is tries to do is homeruns on every swing. I hardly seen if get a single, double, or a triple. He also never walks. Look at Julio OBP. Who is better hitter as a pinch hitter. Of course Julio. The question is are we trying to win now or in the future? If it is now then Julio should have been kept on the roster to provide that veteran bat of the bench in playoffs and in regular season because Thorman can’t do a thing.
By A-ville Ranger
August 1, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this
I misspelled Mahay….what the hay….I mean hey.
By MEB
August 1, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this
JustDave… you sound just like that goober that calls in to XM MLB Home Plate and rags on Chipper. Mark Patrick and Buck Martinez and every listener have a big laugh at the poor guys expense. Your comments really do not deserve comment.
GO BRAVES!!!
By TampaBrave
August 1, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this
FArnsworth sux! Remember Houston?
Note on Carlyle
Why is he batting left handed? Isn’t that taboo for a pitcher?
By BravesFanInRockies
August 1, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this
Woodward’s not a bad player, he’s the classic utility man. Kind of guy Cox always wants on his roster. It’s easier to carry him when you have a 10 or 11-man pitching staff, because he’ll probably never need to pinch hit in a crucial situation.
He’s worth a lot less when you have only four or five guys on the bench.
By The Grinch
August 1, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this
I like what I see so far. Julio got a raw deal, but such is life. Berigan, they were getting on to him for trying to score with a big lead.
We will win this division, as I said before the trades.
By Superman
August 1, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this
The only way I want Farnsworth on the team is if a fight breaks out.
Man that guy scares the he11 out of me
By TampaBrave
August 1, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this
ACB,
Shut your pitiful piehole.
By JustDave
August 1, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this
MEB - Thanks for the heads up. I think I’ll get XM radio now.
By \\\\\\\\\\BERIGAN//////////
August 1, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this
Well, I said Thorman would never play 1st, clearly he can come in for the 9th, but he isn’t going to start unless there is a double header…perhaps. I believe DOB mentioned that Julio made plays that neither Thor or Salty would make there. So, it really makes no sense, IMO.
Great win!
By TheSouthernJackAss
August 1, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this
Bout time for the stinkin’ trolls to come crawling from under the rocks…and out of the sewer…
By bravesfan
August 1, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB I turned the channel and missed it what was it that Escobar did?
By Ron H
August 1, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this
Hey grinch, julio did get a raw deal…but look at it this way: he got paid 60K to play in 12 games…not a bad payday! comes out to (aprox) 800K a year (162 games).
Two words: septeber first
By \\\\\\\\\\BERIGAN//////////
August 1, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this
Grinch, trying to score with a big lead??? I know you are not supposed to steal with a big, lead, but come on! Hey Yunel, don’t try to hit a homer in a blowout either, you’d just be showing up the other team! Don’t be darned agressive! And Dotel, what you thinking son? Striking out guys, a 1,2,3 inning, don’t make the Astros mad for tomorrow! Good grief.
By Greg
August 1, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this
Amazing game. For the first time since—I don’t know maybe 1996—Braves hitters were patient. The result, they torched a young pitcher. I’d love to see more of that patience going forward.
By A-ville Ranger
August 1, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this
JustDave Come on fella,to think this team is destined to a third place finish this season while I disagree, it’s not crazy.Saying they’re destined for low finishes for years to come is JustDumb though.The Braves have as good a group of young players as any team in the game.Contrary to what you and a few others think the minors are in very good shape as well.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 1, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this
Andruw had a talk w/ Escobar about trying to tag and score on a short fly ball w/ the game out of hand. Escobar then went and apologized to Bobby as well who told him it was alright. Lesson learned for the young great one.
I think Teixeira, Mahay and Dotel played well tonight. Tex hit a bomb and ended up w/ 4 RBI’s. Mahay pitched an inning w/ 1 B and 1K. Dotel…1 inning w/ 1 K. Good stuff.
Just heard McGriff homered in his 3rd at bat in the 6th inning. Sound familiar…Tex tonight.
Couldn’t be more happy.
By Superman
August 1, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this
Arroyo 1 2/3 innings 7 hits and 7 earned runs OUCH
Well at least for tonight im glad we didnt trade for him
By BravesFanInRockies
August 1, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this
Tell you what, denizens. The added depth that Mahay and Dotel provide for the pen could be invaluable. We may not have to run Sori and Wickman out there on back-to-back days any more. We can use Yates less often, too. When he’s fresh, he’s pretty doggone good.
Fresh, live arms mean wins.
By bravesfan
August 1, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this
Maybe this injury will make it where they will skip Buddy’s next start or atleast where it will be Carlyle, Smoltz, and Hudson in the Mets series, yall agree?
By Niekro35
August 1, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this
Talk about a pyrrhic victory. Any more news on Buddy?
By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist
August 1, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this
hmmm… a buckarama commercial after the ballgame. and who shoots and stuffs animals and sells autographed carcasses? who/what is behind this buckarama commercial?
and katy temple … can feel any tension in the clubhouse? looks like a happy team. new sheriff in town, though. new photo on the press guide. new jerseys at the concession stands. will this be tushy’s team now?
and will the old maid game now resume?
corky, ringy, tushy, chipper and jo jo. get an organ and an organ grinder and make this pay dividends. maybe can get another starter with the money collected.
By Superman
August 1, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this
Katie temple mmmm me likey
By Bob
August 1, 2007 11:13 PM | Link to this
Buddy was on TV postgame show. Said he has hyperextended the elbow before and pitched thru it. He expects to make next start.
By Superman
August 1, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this
children CHILDREN
Cant we leave the childish banter to the met fans???
By BossLady
August 1, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this
I can’t say that Tex resembles Andres, all I know is he is a big good looking young man. Whew! With his looks he will be a Yankee along with all the other good looking hunks. Geter, A-Rod, Poseda etc. etc. The Yankees always feature looks along with skill. When Justice went there I said, ok, also Nick Green, and h&!! Joe Torre. When you look at their bench it’s like male magazine models. I know this is not a topic that men discuss, but , it is a fact Oh yeah a young, drug free Giambi and lil’ Boone.
By Greg in TN
August 1, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this
It’s great to get the win tonight. I think momentum is clearly building. I just hope that Carlyle’s hyperextention isn’t more serious than it seems. Tex makes a huge difference in this lineup and it was very apparent from the beginning of tonight’s game.
My heart goes out to the folks in the Twin Cities tonight.
By OLD LEFTY
August 1, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this
There is now a new team to beat not just in the NL East … but in MLB.
This lineup equals 1.5 top-notch starting pitchers.
Discuss …..
By ACB
August 1, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this
Superman, you’re righteous. Arguing is harsh on the ‘verse.
TampaBrave-Dude, I will consider your suggestion regarding a labotomy. If I had one, we could correspond at the same level.
By BossLady
August 1, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this
New York Yankees is the big stage and the fans expect to see actor-types and wealthy professionals. J Steinbrenner either has a thing for young good looking guys or he is playing to that big stage. Johnny Damon and most of the guys he looks to recruit I bet he has headshots of them and probably run it through a marketing department for features and public opinion. Retired, Paul O’Neil, Bernie Williams and Tino Martinez. You will never see an ugly Yankee, no sir. He will probably try to buy Tex for a large contract he cannot afford to refuse.
By Interested Observer
August 1, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this
I can understand possibly trading Wickman for a solid player or prospect, especially a starter. But Farnsworth?? Wickman is better than Farnsworth!
By gotigers72
August 1, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this
DOB - Enjoyed your words about Bench and Renteria. I was a high school catcher just before the time Bench came to the majors, so naturally I looked at catchers as my favorite players, and I really loved Bench. Heard Joe Morgan say that sometimes he used to could pick up what pitch was coming when he was on as a baserunner at 2nd and would watch the catcher’s signs. He said he was adept at stealing signs, but not that many hitters were great at doing something with a pitch even if they knew what was coming. He mentioned that Tony Perez was pretty good, but said Bench was the absolute best at it. I also loved to watch him gun down runners with that cannon he had.
I met Pat Corrales once, and asked if he was Bench’s backup [I knew he had been]. He answered he was, but didn’t look like he was too pleased at the question, so I didn’t pursue it further. After all Pat was a rather intimidating guy. Being Bench’s backup would have been like being the backup to Hank Aaron. I actually think Corrales was well thought of as a player, just at the wrong place at the wrong time.
Edgar is absolutely one of the best 10 players in the NL this year. Not very flashy, so he doesn’t receive the props he should receive as one of the best players. But boy can he ever play the game. I hate to think where the Braves would be without Edgar this year.
By Herschel Talker
August 1, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this
TampaBrave and ACB are 2 tools. Get a life, you 2 losers.
By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist
August 1, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this
this blog has come full circle. once the roughest post found here was from the lovely carolina lady who told dob to soak dob’s toes! in listerine! oh, the humanity!
of course, dob did not react as badly as when other blogggers later suggested dob soak dob’s head.
now, trolls are among us - not so many as some think - but trolls, still.
and where is journalist bob? not suggesting journalist bob is a troll … too old to be a troll :-). knew polonius, american league.
and this has been a fun evening of baseball. let it continue. and a speedy recovery to buddy. a little ginglymus juice applied liberally will hasten the recovery. jeff porter be advised.
and what is the toe health of this team? appears to be quite good at this time. thankfully. toes are not to be trifled with.
By meansonny
August 1, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this
What I love about this line-up is what it should do for Huddy and Smoltz. Hopefully, they’ll be able to get leads against the opposing teams top pitchers. This should lead to longer starts (fewer pitches).
And ultimately, a much greater chance at winning the first 2 games of a post-season series.
By A-ville Ranger
August 1, 2007 11:40 PM | Link to this
Bosslady I don’t know about any of that.Tex does resemble Andres to me though.I’m a photographer so I see shape more than some.I can usually tell when people are related to each other even if they have different eye color,hair color,etc by the shape of their heads,slope of their shoulders,etc.It’s quite the burden.Well it’s a good day in Bravo-town….night all.
By TLJ
August 1, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this
Maybe it was a good thing we didn’t get Arroyo from the Reds. He had a Kyle Davies game tonight. He pitched 1 2/3 innings, 7 hits and 7 runs.
By meansonny
August 1, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this
It’s been done on here a lot recently. But I’ve gotta give props to Kelly Johnson.
I’ve been tough on the guy because he’s steaky (and has been since 2005). But he appears to be handling the platoon with class. And he has officially pulled himself out of that 2 month slump by hitting .356 AVG with 1.084 OPS for the month of July. He had 12 extra base hits in 73 at bats.
Great job, Kelly. Go Braves!
By mr baseball
August 1, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this
Even us cynics on the blog have to admit that this is one helluva collection of bats, regardless of whether a righty or lefty is on mound. After you get past the 10 regulars, the dropoff is precipitous, but there is not a team in the NL that can field a lineup 1-8 anywhere close to the Braves.
As someone who was opposed to bringing Julio back, I have to admit he does have a little gas in the tank. I guess the front office guys must still think Thorman might develop into a decent player, otherwise they would have dealt him away for an equally iffy prospect and kept Julio.
Given the current makeup of the bench, Cox is going to have to be very careful in his use of the 2 platoon players not in the starting lineup, especially on nights when Harris and Johnson start. He can’t use up Diaz & Escobar early, then have to send up Willie to hit in the 9th inning against Wagner. Fortunately, that’s the only team with a lefty closer (Fuentes is hurt), so that won’t apply very often.
If the starting pitching is just adequate, this team is going back to the playoffs. Any team with suspect starting pitching is going to have an awful hard time against the Braves’ lineup, and with the addition of Dotel & Mahay, this is as good a bullpen as there is in the league.
Having to rely on Reyes & Carlyle is not the most assuring feeling, and the realists among us have accepted the fact that Chuckie is a 6-inning pitcher at best. As long as he’s a good 6-inning pitcher, the team can live with that, both regular and post-season.
With Davies gone, Cormier is about it for insurance if Reyes can’t cut it or (perish the thought) our bionic 40-year-old breaks down. Fortunately, there will be an over-priced, over-the-hill starter or 2 who will be available along about August 30, but let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.
The next 2 months are going to be fun. There are at least 8 teams (9 counting the Rockies) squarely in post-season contention, and there are a whole lot of playoff scenarios that could develop. Heading to the ballpark tomorrow night to get a first look at our new 1B and the rookie pitcher who could be a real key down the stretch.
With Woody Williams pitching, there’s hope of a 4th straight double figure run total. As much crap as I’ve given the GM for past (and some current) failures, I have to give him credit for what he did this week. He has totally erased two weaknesses and turned them into strengths.
For the time being, no laments about the impact on the future. We’ll leave that to the dulcet tones of Mr. John Lydon and his plaintive observation 30-some years ago about life the day after tomorrow. Jeez, that was a long time ago. Getting old.
By Bob
August 1, 2007 11:46 PM | Link to this
Cubs win in 10. Phils in 3d place.
Terrible tragedy in Minneapolis tonight. My heart goes out to the folks up there.
By Braves Fan 79
August 1, 2007 11:46 PM | Link to this
Chuck in NC: i cant believe your defending woodcrap. I noticed you didnt include pitchitt batting average. So your telling me if Franco played in over 60 games he couldnt post better #’s than these ( 1 hr, 2 doubles, 1 triple, 7 rbi’s) ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?? Did you not watch the first half of the Braves season? And you better believe that us having woodcrap on the team instead of bringing up escobar earlier hurt this team!
By Superman
August 1, 2007 11:50 PM | Link to this
Speaking of toes
I dropped a desk on my left big toe a couple weeks ago.
I lost the nail
Did i metion it hurt like he11!
By Bob
August 1, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this
Sorry about that, Cubs won in 9th on wild pitch with bases loaded. Nonetheless, Phils now in 3d place.
By David O'Brien
August 1, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this
Hey, it’s too bad no Braves are cool enough to make the ESPN “Who’s Now” contest. Don’t you think? That’s good stuff.
(wait, I’m going to puke after forcing myself to type those words.)
By Randy
August 1, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this
Just wondering if anyone knows the rules regarding playoff rosters and options. If you have a guy on your roster that is out of options (Thorman) but do not put him on your playoff roster does he get opened up to waivers? I feel like he doesn’t, but was not sure.
Electric at the ballpark tonight by the way. One of the top regular season moments I have witnessed in person at the Ted. Up there with Frenchy’s debut, Smoltz’s 200th and Frenchy’s walkoff slam. Include Furcal’s walkoff against the Astros in the division series if playoffs are tossed in.
By Overlord
August 1, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this
This is going to be a fun month:
1.We get to beat up muts
2.Pay back time with SF, Arizona, Reds, Cards.
3.Plus Fish and Phills.
4.Rockies, team that has never been a prob for the braves.
By David O'Brien
August 2, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this
Hammy The Brave, they traded Startup and Ledezma for Royce Ring because Ring’s got pretty filthy stuff, as you can tell from his numbers in the minors and also his high strikeouts with San Diego. Gotta be a reason he’s bounced around so much, but the stuff is there. Several Braves who’ve faced him a couple times, including Chipper, say he’s outstanding.
That’ll give the Braves a lefty backup or a second lefty down the stretch. They had NO lefties in the ‘pen before Tuesday, now they’re covered. Startup could not have been counted on to be the guy down the stretch in a pennant race, with zero experience.
By Bob
August 2, 2007 12:02 AM | Link to this
Hey Superman,
Was the desk made of Kryptonite? How could it hurt Superman’s toe if it was not made of the green stuff?
By Overlord
August 2, 2007 12:02 AM | Link to this
I hope cubs win the central so we can kick their a22e2 in the 1st round…. Payback time!!!!!!!
By Braveheart
August 2, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this
BRAVOS WIN! – ACTUALLY, NO! BRAVES KICKASS!
MAGIC NUMBER FOR NL EAST FALLS TO 59!
MAGIC NUMBER FOR WILD CARD IS 57!
And, oh yeah, since I’ve been away for a few days, Sir John is a motherfookin’ gangsta! A GD gangsta! Wish he could have pulled a starting pitcher out of his hat but there was no quality out there worth overpaying for. But pulling Tex, Dotel, and Mahay in this barren market was gangsta, just pure gangsta.
You think when he was a kid and the teacher asked his class what they wanted to be when they grew up, Sir John said “I wanna be a mothafing hustla, you’d better ask somebody” a la kiddie Snoop off the Doggystyle album?
It’s like the dude has been sitting up there in the box agonizing with the financial handcuffs placed on him but persevering nevertheless. It’s like he said well if they’re gonna place me in financial handcuffs, I’m gonna Moneyball with the best of ‘em but then he woke up one day and Liberty Media knocked on his door and said here are your pistols and your rifle back Sir John, show ‘em again what who the sheriff in MLB is. Sir John said, say what?, I’ve got financial weapons in my arsenal again? Alright, time to start firing away boys.
By Lew
August 2, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this
Did anyone notice that Arroyo gave up 7 runs in 1 2/3 IP tonight?
By OLD LEFTY
August 2, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this
meansonny: My point exactly. Obviously the rest of the lineup benefits … harder to quantify is the effect on the hurlers. Hard to quantify, but profound in its impact. That’s why I say we just got another 1.5 quality SPs.
Then you add in a clearly solid (after seeing him tonight) Mahay … and a Dotel to play with in the last couple innings … Cox (not to mention the rest of the franchise) must feel like their birthdays were just moved up to a couple days after Christmas.
I hope each and every one of them sleep tonight with visions of sugarplums dancing through their heads. They all deserve to.
Now let’s get some runs.
By chrisklob
August 2, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this
DOB, today’s decision to DFA Franco must have been a very difficult decision for Braves management. Thor has potential, Woodward is versatile (defensively speaking), and Franco’s experience must have created some interesting discussion amongst the Brass in the last 24 hours or so.
Hypothetical question: Once the decision that Franco was the odd man out was made, what prevented them from putting him on the 15-day disabled list with a “made-up” ailment? They could have avoided “embarassing” Franco with his second DFA this season, prevented the possibility of anothing team claiming him, enjoyed the benefits of his veteran leadership in the clubhouse and then removed him from the DL once rosters expand on September 1.
I follow minor league baseball closely and from speaking to players in the minor leagues that guys get put on the “fake DL” sometimes when rosters need to be adjusted. Would this have been a possible scenario or would it have been considered “bush-league”?
By JustDave
August 2, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this
Arroyo is 4-12 this year and has NEVER won more than 14 games in a season. Trading for him would have been a huge mistake.
By BravesDave
August 2, 2007 12:26 AM | Link to this
I am pretty darn excited. Outside of the enormous offensive performance, I am pumped about the potential of the bullpen now. It is pretty cool to know that having Dotel and Mahay down there can give Moylan, Soriano, and Yates a nice rest. If we can get 6 innings out of the starter pretty consistently, this pen will be back to being a strength like it was earlier this season. Dotel - 95 mph, Yates 95 mph, Soriano - 95 mph. Even Moylan dials up that sidearm stuff to 94 mph.
Also, I think if we can get some runs early for Jo-Jo tomorrow, the kid might get his first win. Unfortunately, he has not pitched with any support so far. Every game has been tight while he was in…outside of the DBacks game.
By Randy
August 2, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this
DOB - Could you please find out what Yunel writes in the dirt of the batter’s circle with his bat before he hits? I understand that this may require a little translation help. Thanks much.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
August 2, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this
Greetings all, just a quick comment before turning in. Braves look very good against lesser pitchers. Although it’s easy to get caught up in the moment, let’s not forget we still have about two months to go. A lot of baseball still to be played by many contending teams. This might be one for the ages as far as the playoff chase may go.
Lesson learned by Escobar tonight will pay off later, he still is a spark plug though.
A final comment, a truly terrible event in Minneapolis tonight. I fear it will be even worse tomorrow as far the death toll. It is almost unbelievable to imagine such a horrific event can occur in this country. Let us all be reminded of how quickly such things can happen and stay focused on the things that are truly important in our lives.
Take the time to make things right in your lives, give your kids an extra hug and tell those you love how important they are to you.
By OLD LEFTY
August 2, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this
chrisklob:
Great question … why not the “DL” for Julio??? One way or another he forms a segment of this enterprise. While I like to think we “denuhzens” are at least 3 steps behind the powers that be on this, I still wonder why we risked (unless, of course, the PTB perceive no risk) the DFA route. Julio is us. Surely (Schuer-ly?) he will be kept safe and close by ……. ?
By HP
August 2, 2007 12:34 AM | Link to this
I think the Cleveland Indians need bullpen help pretty bad that they might even trade SP Cliff Lee to Braves for relief pitcher Chad Paronto. DOB: Do you thing that Cliff Lee can help Braves if it happens because of change of scenery for Cliff Lee. But I have a feeling that Cleveland will not got give up on him because he is cheap SP.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
August 2, 2007 12:36 AM | Link to this
chrisklob Just considered to be unethical. There is the possibility Julio may be picked up by another contending club. Putting him on the DL may have denied him the opportunity.
I loved the guy but as I said, I suspect it was a purely financial decision to let him go verses Woodward.
Okay guys, Later
By BravesDave
August 2, 2007 12:45 AM | Link to this
Nice thing about tomorrow…Mets and Phils play afternoon games.
By Bob
August 2, 2007 12:48 AM | Link to this
Gil in Mechanicsville,
Well put my friend, well put. There are more important things in life than games. I fear you are right about the final toll. We should all keep those folks in our prayers tonight.
No Mets Drooler since last night. He might be gone for good.
By TheSouthernJackAss
August 2, 2007 12:51 AM | Link to this
Damn!…tonight this blog is about as bland as a bowl of cold mashed potaters…or oatmeal, in honor of Julio Franco…
By chrisklob
August 2, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this
Gil, I kind of figured that might have been the case but I don’t know that I can agree with you that the decision was a financial one. The Mets are paying the bulk of Franco’s salary (approx $110k). Braves are only responsible for league minimum and of course they’re responsible for the balance of Woodward’s contract (approx 275k). The difference is only $165k (these numbers are guestimates) which is not a lot of money to a team with an $80-something million payroll.
IMO, Woodward was kept for his defensive versatility. Franco plays 1b only; Woodward plays multiple infield positions (albeit not very well). That, I believe is the reason he was retained.
By Bay Area Steve
August 2, 2007 12:59 AM | Link to this
Just a second time poster. DOB was kind enough to answer my first post about the Braves taking BP in San Francisco.
But for all that is holy; or as an “aesthetic” like the renouned Grinch: for all that is Braves, MIB, music, BBQ, nicknames [Tushy (loveya JJS)], toes, PLEASE oh PLEASE Braves Dave 79, stop saying pitchitter.
By Bay Area Steve
August 2, 2007 1:05 AM | Link to this
I apologize…my last should have been renowned.
By Braveheart
August 2, 2007 1:13 AM | Link to this
Is Frenchy now hitting .303? Frenchy hitting .303? The Frenchman? Who would have thought that a year ago? Bravo Frenchy, Brav-freaking-O!
Our current shortstop is hitting .327. Our future shortstop is hitting .324 and still only a platoon player. Our current and future second baseman is hitting .297 with an OBP in the .390s, a SLG in the .500s and is hitting 8th. Our current and future catcher hit .330 last year and is having a helluva an All Star season for a catcher. Our HOF 3rd baseman is hitting .339. One leftfielder is hitting .323 and the other is hitting .341. Our current and future right fielder is hitting .300. We’re so good we traded away the next Johnny Bench. ;-) Our struggling youngun first baseman still has 10 homers. And, oh yeah, we just got a beast named Tex. When your biggest worry offensively is guy named Andruw, things ain’t so bad.
By Braveheart
August 2, 2007 1:15 AM | Link to this
And troll, you’re right. Nothing so pitiful as a geeky white guy trying to come off like he’s sitting in the hood. Guilty as charged. Growing up where I grew up, it’s funny you should assume that because I’m white that I didn’t grow up where I grew up. Here’s a hint for you: it’s funny you should use that guy’s name to mock me because the place I am talking of is the very same place where the guy whose name you used in your moniker grew up.
There is nothing quite as pitiful as a geek sneaking upstairs from the basement to use mommy’s computer after she goes to bed and coming on here every night under six thousand names, too afraid to reveal a name, pretending to be a tough guy by vandalizing a blog. Or are you the geek who sneaks off to the blog after your wife goes off to bed and pretends to sleep to avoid physical contact with you?
Now, that’s pathetic.
Now, troll, be gone.
By Duce
August 2, 2007 1:21 AM | Link to this
It is truly hard to understand anyone that is against the moves that JS made. The Braves line-up is unrivaled. I pitch USSSA softball and would still give myself a chance to win with this Braves team. I hear so much about how we need pitching…. WE HAVE HAD PITCHING FOR 14 YEARS, with 1, I repeat 1 World Series Title. The object of the game of baseball is to score more runs than the opposition. Of course I hate losing Salty, and Elvis, even more so I hate losing Harrison, and Young, but why would anyone that really follows the Braves, and knows this game disagree to the moves we made? I see Andruw, and Francoeur as the only places an opposing pitcher tries to go after for an out. Think about that for a minute…… Fastballs to either of those 2 have a very good chance of not coming back into the field of play, Dotel, Mahay, Soriano, and Wickman, if he gets his ** together, will protect the insurmountable leads that this team will provide on a nightly basis. Don’t be suprised if Andruw and Tex get signed soon due to the fact that Liberty’s commitment to up the payroll, and the Insurance policy invoked on the Hampton deal. It is really a great time to be a Braves fan, if you really are one.
By Duce
August 2, 2007 1:23 AM | Link to this
It is truly hard to understand anyone that is against the moves that JS made. The Braves line-up is unrivaled. I pitch USSSA softball and would still give myself a chance to win with this Braves team. I hear so much about how we need pitching…. WE HAVE HAD PITCHING FOR 14 YEARS, with 1, I repeat 1 World Series Title. The object of the game of baseball is to score more runs than the opposition. Of course I hate losing Salty, and Elvis, even more so I hate losing Harrison, and Young, but why would anyone that really follows the Braves, and knows this game disagree to the moves we made? I see Andruw, and Francoeur as the only places an opposing pitcher tries to go after for an out. Think about that for a minute…… Fastballs to either of those 2 have a very good chance of not coming back into the field of play, Dotel, Mahay, Soriano, and Wickman, if he gets his ** together, will protect the insurmountable leads that this team will provide on a nightly basis. Don’t be suprised if Andruw and Tex get signed soon due to the fact that Liberty’s commitment to up the payroll, and the Insurance policy invoked on the Hampton deal. It is really a great time to be a Braves fan, if you really are one.
By BravesDave
August 2, 2007 1:41 AM | Link to this
One thing I noticed watching the game tonight was how much fun Andruw was having in the dugout. He has been giving his typical smirks and bemused smiles with his poor performance this season, but tonight he was having a blast. This after being moved to the #5 spot in the order (I actually do not mind him being there - it just makes 6-8 that much tougher for the opposing pitcher). Maybe he really does want to be here more than anything. We hear him say it, but we all doubt that it means much at the end of the season. I am starting to wonder if we end up keeping him. As much of a disappointment as he has been this season, it would be strange to start next season without him in CF. I can accept a CF hitting .250 with a .350 OBP and 30 HRs. I hate having to accept a CF hitting .215, but I think he can improve by the end of the season with Teixeira taking some of the pressure off of him.
By David O'Brien
August 2, 2007 1:50 AM | Link to this
Bay Area Steve, that was funny.
HP, what are you talking about? The non-waiver trade deadline is past, my friend. You don’t trade good and/or affordable starters anymore — they’d get claimed on waivers in a heartbeat. Those fantasy trades are over. Only ones you make now are extremely costly players and/or minimal-impact guys, really.
By Pee diddyBraveheart
August 2, 2007 2:08 AM | Link to this
whoa
sorry, man …. I am not who you thought … relax
I used P Diddy as a prototypical hip-hop reference
getting too personal here, and did NOT intend to go there
Please read this a couple times and know this was a silly blog thing. Sorry really means sorry.
Be well, brother.
By uga-brave
August 2, 2007 2:10 AM | Link to this
wyatt earp and the last ride for his immortals. said on 7/31/01 it would take 35-20 to make the playoffs, well one down. as much as i am excited by this recent outburst lets see what happens in a couple of close ones. so far this is playing to script for the braves. look great for three look, well you know. there is no denying that there is a lot of adrenaline running in that clubhouse presently, but these next four games are HUGE. MUST WIN 3 OF FOUR. no excuses. DOB, i know we are facing woody tommorow, and his great #,s vs. the braves but this is two series in a row that we have missed both teams aces, (webb, oswalt.) sweep is a must. said this a week ago rip off seven in a row and see what happens.
by the way said last night francouer might be developing into the X FACTOR.
By snowball's chance
August 2, 2007 2:13 AM | Link to this
I think the best news between the lines is that JS may not be afraid to deal with Scott Borass. Maybe the Braves can get a deal done with Andruw and Tex.
By OLD LEFTY
August 2, 2007 2:14 AM | Link to this
Hey, DOB …… so late? How you doin’?
Are we drunk on talent or what?
There really is hardly anything to say at this point … I guess that’s why they call it “work” … right?
Here’s a suggestion …. for tomorrow, why don’t we explore something has to do with “… given we got Christmas in July, what should we be worried about?” or something like that?
By uga-brave
August 2, 2007 2:15 AM | Link to this
DOB, any truth to the rumor that hicks offered tex 180 over 8?
By uga-brave
August 2, 2007 2:23 AM | Link to this
well saw that buuddy bell quit today. thats what watching kyle’s last start can do for you. kidding aside he had legit reasons. DOB as old athens music fan u ever heard of dreams so real or the white animals?
By snowball's chance
August 2, 2007 2:27 AM | Link to this
While I am waiting for the delay I always check out the top headlines. Apparently there are 237 reasons to have sex. What are the other 236?
By Alex
August 2, 2007 2:49 AM | Link to this
Man, I’m just not sure the Braves are going to be able to score enough runs down the stretch…I mean nothing at all in the last 4 games has given any indication that this team is capable of going absolutely bezerkers with the bat and rolling out, oh I don’t know, 11.25 runs a game or something like that…I mean its silly really to think that just because the team picked up one of the top sluggers in the game that they were going to be able to improve their offense. Silly to think that I tell you, silly.
DOB- Any thoughts on Andruw perhaps signing a cut rate 1 year deal with the Braves for next year or better yet accepting their arbitration offer once he files for FA? It seems to me that would make a ton of sense…he gets a chance to play a full year in this line-up, redeem himself from his terrible BA, RISP hitting, etc. I know Boras is a beast, but even he would have to see the logic…take one year at $13 million to later earn $20 million a season or sing a long-term deal with someone that at best gets Andruw $16-17 million a year on what would could possibly end up being the same # of contract years. Andruw would like it because it would give him a chance to make some more money in the long run and see if the Braves are going to have enough money under new ownership to sign him to the long-term deal that he wants here.
By Braveheart
August 2, 2007 3:11 AM | Link to this
48-29 in the starts of Smoltz, Hudson, Chuck, & Buddy
34-6 when we score 6 or more runs
23-45 when we score less than 6 runs
6-30 when give up 6 or more runs
51-21 when we give up less than 6 runs
By Serbok
August 2, 2007 3:28 AM | Link to this
chrisklob
*August 2, 2007 12:13 AM *
Excellent question Bro!!!!! Love to hear a response to that:o)
By uga-brave
August 2, 2007 3:36 AM | Link to this
alex andruw is not eligible to file for arbitation. he is a free agent. the only way he gets arbitration is if the braves offer it, ala. maddux in 2003. whe the braves were shocked he accepted it. that why we had to trade maddux.
By Braveheart
August 2, 2007 3:40 AM | Link to this
A concern I have about LM is their financial commitment long term. Sure, they have opened up the pocketbooks as of today. Are they committed to it though long term? The reason I bring it up is because big time money was committed to Andruw and Chipper before the financial handcuffs were slapped on Sir John in 2003. The money may very well have been committed to them anyway because neither was thirty yet when the money was committed to them and they were superstars who deserved to have the money committed like that. BUT if Sir John knew the cuffs were going to be placed on him that were placed on him in 2003 when he committed that money, would he have committed that money like he did, knowing that would mean Glavine, Maddux, & Millwood would be gone and he would have a tough time maneuvering around those contracts to sign other players? It would be great to believe the Braves are now playing with a $90 - $100 mil payroll if that is what the case is going to be for the next 5 years. But, if not, do we end up committing money now that suffocates the future of the team? But, as for now, who cares? The moves that had to be made for this year and next were made and the short term prospects are bright, so I should just enjoy it.
By Braveheart
August 2, 2007 3:43 AM | Link to this
If the Yankees make the postseason, how much you wanna bet Wilson Betemit ends up hitting some dramatic home run that makes him a Yankee postseason legend a la other unsung lesser players like Bucky Dent, Jim Leyritz, Scott Brosius, Aaron Boone, and so on? He will be in a role now with the Yankees that he should flourish in and is best suited for – utility man – Joe Torre loves those Andy Foxes, Rey Sanchezes, Luis Sojos, Miguel Cairos, Jose Vizcainos, Enrique Wilsons. They are the Lockharts, Orrs, and Woodwards of those teams. He might very well end up being the first baseman by the end of the year though.
By uga-brave
August 2, 2007 3:47 AM | Link to this
my bad meant to type in millwood. we will not offer andruw arbitration. the only way andruw comes back is because he want to come back.
there is no way boras will advise him to do that without a huge option. as much as i respect andruw for going to the post for an avg. of 158 a year i think we are watching the last of this great hall of famer.
the one way the get him is a one year deal around 14 million with a player option, meaning he could opt out if he had a huge year.
By uga-brave
August 2, 2007 3:55 AM | Link to this
braveheart great stat 23-45 when we score less than 6 runs. kinda echos why we have been inconsistent all year. once again i think its going to take 34-19 the rest of the way.
By Serbok
August 2, 2007 3:58 AM | Link to this
Braveheart Nice thought about yanks and betemeat,very well thought out ad original! However~ Really dont see that happening, as I’m sure you dont either? Enjoyed the thought tho:o) Thanx!
By Coach ( It Sucks To Be The Mets Or Phillies)
August 2, 2007 4:03 AM | Link to this
I dunno , 38 runs in three games just isn’t going to cut it. We definitely need more offense and the 8 HR’s in three games is an indicator that the Braves just can’t hit the longball with authority anymore. John Schuerholz is going to sit on his hands and do nothing while we have to watch this decrepit offense score 10-12 runs a game , I can’t take it anymore !!!!ARRRRRRGGGGHHHHH !!!
By uga-brave
August 2, 2007 4:03 AM | Link to this
that 23-45 stat with less than 6 runs is mind numbing. not many games in the post season or for that matter in a pennant chase head to head are blowouts. that stat alone is why we are chasing everybody, both in the division and in the wild card.
By Serbok
August 2, 2007 4:13 AM | Link to this
Only way I know about boras is from what I have heard on here// guess I should say I know a lil bit more than from what Ive heard on here, but not much, Hypothetically speaking, If Andruws plans are to live most of his life in Curacao, He has enuff money by now to be the King? As I recollect AJ’s daddy once negotiated his contract, while Boras just looked on? is that correct? AJ is 30 yrs old. Has had a disapointing yr. The Braves, Have traded their entire farm system to win NOW???????? (NOT} And next year, and year after and quite possibly the year after that? Braves should be considered favorites! Seems to me that AJ likes it here with Bobby and the braves, Lets look at where he comes from? (Curacao?} Would not surprise me in the LEAST to have AJ for 1 more year! As has been pointed out Hampton, Wicky etc.. contracts being gone at seemingly the correct time:o) That enhances AJ being here next yr? Of course with TEX signing an extension,Dunno~ just a thought.
By jbutler
August 2, 2007 5:30 AM | Link to this
chrisklob…to falsely put JF on the DL is just wrong. Unethical, and a terrible way to give a decent guy a proper sendoff. The way JS did it is pretty harsh..but if the Braves are going to harvest come October - you gotta do it the right way. Or its just not worth it.
By Braves Fan 79
August 2, 2007 5:44 AM | Link to this
Man i hope Franco isnt claimed by another team and can rejoin the Braves when the roster expandes….or when Bobby finially comes to his sences and cuts woodcrap. This is the best lineup ive seen since the days of Javy Lopez, Gallaragh, Vinny, Chipper, Andrew….and damn it feels good to say I TOLD YOU SO to all you fairweather Braves fans that thought we should rebuild.
By ncscoots
August 2, 2007 7:32 AM | Link to this
Jeez, Teixeira struck out twice? Bench that sucker!
Many bloggers here have often decried the “lack of leadership” in the Braves clubhouse. Mainly because they don’t read quotes in the paper or see teammates showing one another up, I guess. But notice that it wasn’t Bobby who chatted with Escobar about his youthful exuberance. It was Andruw, and I didn’t see the vets drawing straws beforehand. Maybe we can forgo such posts in the future.
Jeez, Teixeira struck out twice? Bat that sucker 8th!
By Paladin
August 2, 2007 7:53 AM | Link to this
The only comments I have to make after reading last night’s posts are: Welcome to Atlanta, Tex or Tushy; and welcome back Braveheart.
By Anders
August 2, 2007 8:14 AM | Link to this
Paladin - Good morning . Hell of a night for your Tomahawks. All I can say is ride the wave baby, ride the wave. Sometimes they stretch all the way to the shore, sometimes they rise up curl and drop. No way of knowing where this one is going. Should be fun to watch. Also - Tushy? Tell me that was a typo.
By Paladin
August 2, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this
Anders Tushy? Son, you need to read some of the other posts besides your own. It has to do with how T-e-i-x-e-i-r-a is actually pronounced. And, our scribe-in-residence has done some clever “take offs” on that. Try lurking, without speaking, and you may take some knowledge—and wit—back to the Mut’s blog with you. And—good morning to you.
By TLJ
August 2, 2007 8:36 AM | Link to this
uga-braves
I think the Braves will offer arbitration to AJ. First he won’t accept it and they know it. Why settle one year for $ 15 to $ 18 mil when you can 5 or 6 years for that amount. Second the Braves will not get draft choices if they don’t offer arbitration. This is huge since we traded off 7 prospects.
It’s possible the Braves could agree to a one year contract but that’s not likely. It’s also possible AJ will take less on a multi year contract to stay in Atl. That is not likely to happen since he is represented by Boras. I’m pretty sure AJ is gone after this season.
By chrisklob
August 2, 2007 8:41 AM | Link to this
jbutler, I only asked that question because I know for fact that it sometimes happens in the minors. However, I can’t agree with you that doing it this way is “a terrible way to give a decent guy a proper sendoff”. In fact, I think the DFA is a much harsher way. By DL’ing him and telling him that he’ll be back for September, you’re giving him another month or so to show what he’s got once rosters are expanded which gives him the opportunity to win a spot on the playoff roster. He’s got a legit chance to win a spot on that roster and win a ring (which I don’t recall him winning before—someone correct me if I’m wrong). If he gets claimed, he may wind up with a team that doesn’t have as good a chance as this one to get to postseason play.
By Will
August 2, 2007 8:45 AM | Link to this
Enjoyed seeing Texieria hit the 3 run shot last night, especially since it was to left-center. Maybe Andruw’s dumb a* can learn something from watching Chipper and Texieria in front of him, although i do not have my hopes up. Thank god Franco was designated for assignment, i have nothing against him at all, but unfortunately he is done as an effective baseball player and it still is irritating to me that a guy like that was put in the lineup for upwards of two weeks straight in the middle of a pennant race. I like reading about all the hot streaks the Braves hitters are on, hopefully they will keep up and translate to a much better August, after a .500 July!
By Paladin
August 2, 2007 8:45 AM | Link to this
Oh, and Anders, Braveheart—one of our 1st-line enforcers and noted bon vivant—is back after a hiatus. You had best, quickly, show him your visitors pass, signed by Lew and myself, because he might shoot first and ask questions later.
By flange1
August 2, 2007 8:46 AM | Link to this
What a fun night at the old ball park! If Buddy had not gotten hurt it would have been just about perfect.
I really like this lineup even with the platoons. All 10 of the regulars, except Andruw, are having good years, and hopefully Andruw will pick it up a notch.
I am not real happy with the bench moves. I have heard that Pena is not the best defensive catcher and that Corky is a pretty decent receiver, but I don’t really understand this move. Pena would make the club much more versatile.
I like the Franco DFA even less. Folks we need to remember that Willie Harris plays 2B, SS and 3B add Escobar who plays the same with Thorman and Diaz and Franco to back up at first, I think the bench would have been stronger with Franco than Woodward. I know Bobby likes his utility players, but this was a bad move.
I really wish in all of the trading that happened this week that Thorman could have been included so we would not have had to make this decision. I don’t dislike Thorman, but I just don’t see his position in the organization right now. Are we going to keep him until 2009 to pinch hit and back up at first?
By JasonInMaine
August 2, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this
Man, I really hope we can sign Tex to a long term deal. He just seems to be such a great fit, and it seems like a perfect situation. His wife is from the ATL, he played at Tech, has a home in the area, has tremendous respect for Chipper…
I think once he gets a taste of a pennant chase and playing for Bobby, he will want to stick around. Remember, he said “Boras works for me.” I agree with what others have already mentioned: his turning down the offer in Texas had more to do with the fact he didn’t want to be there than it did with the money itself. It would be awesome if they signed him to a long term deal before he even reached FA. Tell Boras to take a freakin’ hike!
By Anders
August 2, 2007 8:53 AM | Link to this
Paladin - Lighten up dude. It’s Christmas in August at the Ted -remember? I understood where Tushy came from? I was expressing my thoughts on it using my own clever style. I can slow down if you like? You go with Tushy. Frenchy and Tushy. You play at the Ted or the Bunny Ranch?
By Thrillhouse44
August 2, 2007 8:57 AM | Link to this
Braves are 2-0 with Teixeira! Not a bad start. I’m so pumped that they’re on TBS tonight. Sounds like my Thursday night will be great: several Thriller Lites, my dog on the couch, and the Braves and Tex on TV while I pack for a 9 day guys’ trip to the beach. Life is good.
Braveheart came back with a bang. I love the 12:05 a.m. post last night. Can’t you see JS dancing like the little kid in the “Let Me Ride” video?
By JasonInMaine
August 2, 2007 8:59 AM | Link to this
Anyone here follow the Rome Braves? If so, what do you know about the SS Brandon Hicks? He is absolutely tearing it up in his first 11 games for Rome…he has an OPS of 1.208 so far. Another legit SS prospect?
By TLJ
August 2, 2007 9:03 AM | Link to this
After reading the comments made by several individuals, it’s obvious you will never be satisfied. There are some people that CAN DO (JS and BC are can do people) and others that complain about the CAN DO people.
In other words get a life, the Braves just improved themselves to make a serious run at the playoffs and some of you guys are still complaining.
If you are better qualified than JS or BC then apply for their jobs, both will be available in a few years. Otherwise sit back and enjoy the ride. No one enjoys a back seat driver or a arm chair quarterback.
By Paladin
August 2, 2007 9:04 AM | Link to this
Anders Check that visitors pass. It’s due to run out…any minute. :-)
By DAP
August 2, 2007 9:10 AM | Link to this
i think tex looks like a white barry bonds.
By flange1
August 2, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this
Anders,
The bunny ranch line was great, I laughed out loud!
By KC
August 2, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this
Okay… here’s the question: What are we going to get from our 5th starter?
Let’s hope JoJo is on his on his game tonight. We want to keep that momentum going.
By JasonInMaine
August 2, 2007 9:18 AM | Link to this
I found the assessments of the prospects the Braves traded interesting. From a Stark column:
Jarrod Saltalamacchia: “I don’t know about the defense, but he’s a man-child with that bat,” said a scout who has watched him since high school. “He’s going to put up big, big numbers. I’m not sure how good he’s ever going to be behind the plate. But I think his bat is so good, they won’t mind suffering with his defense.”
Elvis Andrus: “He’s a damn good player,” said one AL executive. “For me, he’s like an Orlando Cabrera. He won’t be a superstar, but he’ll be a real good, competitive, everyday player in the big leagues.”
Neftali Feliz: “I think this guy is a potential closer,” one scout said. “We’re talking big-time power stuff, mid-to-upper 90s.”
Matt Harrison: “Probably a No. 4 starter type, but with more upside,” said a scout who has raved about Harrison for a couple of years. “He’s 21 years old with a good feel for pitching and an out pitch. I’ll take that every time.”
Now, I am not posting this to say that I think JS did the wrong thing, etc. I just found it interesting. Of course, at the beginning of the article, Crasnick compares JS to Einstein and says that he is the greatest GM to have ever lived. I still think JS made the right moves. Period. And with how the Bravos have played since hearing about Tex, including in Tex’s debut last night, the team certainly seems to be pumped.
By Salty
August 2, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this
Paladin
Why this relentless need to act an enforcer? Anders has been far more decent than some supposed Braves fans, yet for the mere fact he’s a Met’s fan, you feel a need to throw rules in his face.
You got off to a very lousy start on this blog…very lousy. Now you go around throwing off rules and acting as gatekeeper? I think you mean well enough, but sometimes you just try too hard.
By Anders
August 2, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this
Flange - Thanks. Apparently I’ve broken some unwritten blogging code however????
By Lee in South GA
August 2, 2007 9:33 AM | Link to this
Right now I am as busy watching scores of other games played as I am with the Braves score. Every game played from here on out will be magnified because of the Wild card race also. This does not mean I have no faith the Braves will not win the division but I have to admit the Wild card has been good for baseball. I have never been a big fan of the Designated Hitter in the A.L. but I find it intriguing just how this offense would even be more intimidating now with it. For instance could you imagine a line-up with Harris leading off and Diaz as the DH hitting in 9th position.
By Joe Schmoe
August 2, 2007 9:38 AM | Link to this
JasonInMaine,
Hicks was one of our draft picks from this year. A third rounder out of Texas A&M. Guys who are drafted that high from D-1 schools usually fair pretty well in lower levels of the minor leagues because of their age and college experience.
I did find a scouting report on him that I’ll give you…
Physical Description: Tall, athletic, wiry.
Batting Stance: Starts somewhat closed, legs close together. Huge load to start swing.
Ultimate Role: Bench player
Draft Estimate: 10th-12th round
Summary: Plus defensive shortstop with a modest chance to hit. Decent bat speed, but starts swing with a huge load that makes his swing very long. Good range in both directions at short, soft hands and a plus arm. Based off this look (10th-12th round); may not be signable there, would be a great senior-sign SS next year.
By Will
August 2, 2007 9:41 AM | Link to this
Salty, I agree with you about Anders, the guy is just trying to have a reasonable conversation about baseball. And he even said yesterday it gets really old talking the same BS with your own teams fans every single day.its fun to debate the opposition
By flange1
August 2, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this
Anders,
Not with me! It makes no difference to me if you are a Mets fan or not as long as you are friendly!
By CMC
August 2, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this
DOB,
A thought hit me while I was mowing my lawn before the game last night. Before interleague play began, if a player was traded from AL to NL, or vice versa, did his season stats start over at that point? I assume that no longer is the case with the advent of interleague play. Even so, I never understood why this was done. Seems like Sutcliffe had a half-season record with the Cubs and Doyle Alexander with the Tigers, and the record prior to the trade was not included.
Correct me if I am mistaken on this one. But if it was the case, what was the logic?
Also, did you realize that a female country singer by the name of Suzy Bogguss re-released Hiatt’s “Drive South” back in the 90’s?
By Anders
August 2, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this
Salty - Appreciate the support. I come here for a different perspective on my team and yours. I know what the locals here are saying and it gets old.
By JasonInMaine
August 2, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this
Joe Schmoe,
Thanks dude. I thought his names sounded familiar…I had read a draft recap a while back. Makes sense why he would be having such success in A ball…
He was projected to be a 10th-12th rounder and we took him in the 3rd…I trust our scouts!
By Anders
August 2, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this
Will - Another supporter. My god this is like a cheesy movie where the new guy comes into town who nobody trusts but he ends up throwing out the bullies who’ve been terrorizing it all along. If it’s ok with you guys Tom Cruise will play my part.
By Renegator
August 2, 2007 9:57 AM | Link to this
I am concerned about starting pitching depth. With Davies now gone - our only options to fill in a spot in the rotation because of injury are Villareal and Cormier. Do we have any other minor league pitchers who could fill in if needed?
By Braves Fan 79
August 2, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this
DOB: man who cares about that stupid whos now thing. Look who made it to the finals? Labron?? Whats his overhyped a$$ every done besides promote himself as the greatest, despite never winning anything. Hes not even a top 5 player in his own SPORT!! Top 20….shure…top 5…hell no!! Im so tired of it taking up half of sportscenter…what a waste.
Oyea…and bring back Julio…woocrap is useless!
By Greg
August 2, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this
I came in as the announcers were talking about it but never got more detail; what happened with Yunel and Bobby last night?
By Lew
August 2, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this
Anders-It doesn’t matter if they play at the Ted or at The Bunny Ranch-all are definitely better than playing at Shea.
By Ed Boon
August 2, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this
Sorry if I missed this along the line somewhere. But could someone tell me who the Brave’s backup catcher is?
By Will
August 2, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this
Anders, No problem, you are not combative whatsoever its nice to see another perspective. I do have a decent feeling the Braves are gonna catch the Mets, and i am sure you feel differently. I am a realist Atlanta Braves fan who has been heartbroken by this team so many times i wanna see results before i get my hopes too far up.
By Salty
August 2, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this
Cruise? So much for keeping it real! And…now we’re cheesy, too!
BTW…Cubs…not an easy weekend…playoff atmosphere in the Windy City, Milwaukee, the ATL. Through next weekend, good intensity…lots of games under the proverbial microscope! September’s come early! Good times for many baseball fans…good times indeed!
By Lew
August 2, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this
Denizens and Music Lovers- For those who enjoy the more soulful side of Rock, Blues and the Harder side of R&B. Grace Potter and The Nocturnals, a local Indie band here in Vermont is on the verge of making it big. Tonight they appear on the Jay Leno Show and tomorrow on the Late Late Show. Check them out-you’ll like the music. Grace is not hard to look at and the Lady can sing. DOB compares her favorably to Bonnie Raitt and Joan Osbourne. She also plays a mean B3. They are currently on tour opening for Govt. Mule. Give them some support tonight. I think you’ll really like the music.
By Interested Observer
August 2, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this
Anybody know how Blaine Boyer’s been looking as a starter at Richmond?
By Braves Fan 79
August 2, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this
WILL: you said Franco was: “done as an effective baseball player” Yea man great point there…u must really know your baseball to say that about a guy thats hit over .300 in the past 2 weeks and is a heck of alot better hitter than woodcrap can ever dream to be! My advice to you…go back to softball where perhaps maybe you have a clue.
By Paladin
August 2, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this
Salty I’ve been having some fun with Anders. I recommend the same type of recreation for you. In the meantime, XXXXoff!!
By Overlord
August 2, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this
What a difference can 3 players make, theres a sense of championship on team and fans. Wonder how much better can it get if they get rid of woodward.
By Anders
August 2, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this
Lew - Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. I agree Shea’s a dump but it’s my dump. Been going there all my life. Lot’s a great memories. On some level you guys must miss Fulton -no?I’ll actually be sad to see Shea go, but I understand the economics of the game demand it.
By Salty
August 2, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this
Paladin
Predictable
By bill
August 2, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this
I’m concered about our starting pitching. Someone suggested trading for Cliff Lee of the Indians. He’s in the minors but has a major league contract. Maybe DOB can tell us what the rules are on a player like Lee.
By josh
August 2, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this
Greg…although I stopped watching the game after it was in hand (after Tex’s homer), apparantly Escobar was on 3rd and tried to score on a short pop fly. I think Bobby and Andruw were mentioning that tagging up in that situation (an 8 run lead, late) is akin to stealing a base while ahead.
And to whoever asked, Corky Miller is the current backup catcher. I personally prefer Pena who is the better hitter, but maybe the pitchers prefer throwing to Corky.
By Alex
August 2, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this
Greg, It was 12-3 and Yunel tried to score on a shallow fly to center from 3B with 1 nobody out in the inning. Bobby got on his case b/c it’s one of the unwritten rules in baseball, you don’t rub it in when you are up big late in games.
Yunel didn’t know that, he only knows to play hard, and Bobby told Geno to get Yunel and translate for him, and Andruw spoke to him in spanish as well, just to make sure they wanted him to know that situation doesn’t require Yunel to try and score. That’s all. After that, they showed Yunel go to Bobby and appologize and tell him that he’s got it and that’s all. No big deal. I’m sure Phil Garner from the Astro’s appreciated Bobby’s attitude, to talk to Yunel about what he tried to do.
All the people that say we should have kept Julio, what don’t you understand!
I hope that about covers it. Although Scott Thorman has been nothing but below average right now, the team is not ready to give up on him yet. They still believe he could be a 30HR kind of guy or they would have released him or sent him down a long time ago.
By JasonInMaine
August 2, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this
Lew, I saw Gov’t Mule on Church Street in Burlington back in 98 I believe. It was a great time…I will have to DVR the Leno show tonight.
By Bob
August 2, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this
Anders,
I said same thing last night. It is great to have rational discussion about what is shaping up as a great August and September. I don’t agree with all your comments, but then again, there are lots of comments on the blog I don’t agree with. Now Mets Drool, that is another case, but I think you add a lot to the discussion and help some of us keep things in perspective.
Long way to go and as we saw last night, our pitching is only an injury or two from being a real big problem. I think the addition of Tex makes this lineup the best in the NL and probably about as good as any in MLB. That being said, it is still usually pitching that gets you into the playoffs. I think JS and BC realized that the NL has several good teams but all of them have flawes.
I for one am glad you are on our blog.
By Paladin
August 2, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this
Anders Was Shea named for some anglo-saxon who played for your team back in the dark ages? Now, y’all have more latinos(many of them has-beens)in your organization than Pancho Villa had in his whole damn “army”.
By AthensBrave
August 2, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this
Will, Back on the band wagon buddy? You going jump off if we lose a couple?
By DAP
August 2, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this
man, what with the love fest for anders? i guess since he obviously has a brain unlike most mets fans that come on here, everyone loves him. i dont hate you anders, but you are getting way to much love on here for a mets fan.
at least your not an idiot…but then again, you root for the mets…
By Will
August 2, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this
BravesFan79, Okay buddy, almost every one of Franco’s freaking hits are BARELY fair inside the first baseline. If he is not done as an effective baseball player then why the hell did they demote him. Save me the time of explaining to me that they cant option thorman cause i know that. Julio Franco god bless him, but he sucks, his reaction time at the plate is embarrassing anymore, his hits were because the ball ran into his bat. I have a bigger clue then you could ever dream of a*****
By Anders
August 2, 2007 10:33 AM | Link to this
Will - I’ve never ruled out that the Braves can catch the Mets. They’re only 3.5 back - how could I? My thoughts are that if the Mets start to hit at all I think they can take care of business. Last night’s 8 spot was a start but They need to hit over a prolonged period which they haven’t in two months. The Braves offense speaks for itself after the Tex trade. I think the Braves bullpen could be their problem, especially the back end. Wickman and Dotel. Certainly not a sure thing. Bottom line - If the Mets don’t hit the Braves have enough to pass them. Also, I agree with you on Franco. His .300 with the Braves was the equivalent of a sugar high after that candy bar mid afternoon. He couldn’t catch up with mediocre fatsballs for the Mets all year.
By Braves20
August 2, 2007 10:33 AM | Link to this
Ed Boon - Our back up catcher is Corky Miller. Now can someone tell me WHY that is? Did B. Pena break his leg?
And while we’re at it, why an inexperienced strike-out machine for the bench rather than a proven vet who been swinging every well the last couple weeks?
By Will
August 2, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this
Bravesfan 79, PS: your logic of acting like i am somehow saying Woodward is good with my comments on Franco is total BS. I think Woodward is an absolutely terrible baseball player, but he is more defensively versatile then Franco. Please no one jump on me for defending Woodward because i totally agree he SUCKS!!
By TampaBrave
August 2, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this
Will
Nice to see you’re becoming more optimistic. I just acquired my tix for 9/1 vs Mets. I am stoked.
Any news on Buddy? Why in the heck is he exposing his pitching arm when hitting anyway? I think I’d sacrifice the hitting to protect my livlihood. What do you think?
By Paladin
August 2, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this
NOTE TO ALL They’re people on here that I enjoy sparing with and who,they indicate, enjoy sparing with me. I will continue to do my “thing”. And, if the rest of you panty-wadders don’t “like” me, or don’t “approve” of me, I couldn’t care less.
And, as I have indicated, when football starts(and it won’t be long)I’ll be off this blog at warp-speed.
By Will
August 2, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this
Athens Brave, I am a realist, i never leave the bandwagon, i am just not gonna sit here and say everything is fine when its not. Starting pitching still is very questionable beyond the top two guys. Dont think no matter what i say on here i am not watching every game everynight. By the way, i do admit i doubted them getting Tex a couple weeks ago, but the fact is they are a much better baseball team now then they were two days ago.
By ssiscribe
August 2, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this
Really quick, since I gotta jet, but looking back at the comments from last night:
— Great win, obviously. Super energy. Hope it continues tonight, since I’ll be in the ballpark for my first look at Tex in person (come on, Jo Jo).
— Glad Buddy’s injury isn’t serious. That would be the last thing the Bravos need. Hopefully he’s good to go next time out, cuz he’s been a heck of a story.
— I, too, missed Yunel’s play, but glad to see the Braves explain it to him. I’m sure Garner and the Astros appreciate the gesture.
— Mets and Phils play this afternoon; here’s hoping for both of them to lose so we can continue to gain on New York and separate on Philly.
— Rational, good-natured, passionate baseball discussion always is welcomed on the Braves/MIB. Keep politics out of it. Don’t use bad language. Don’t be a troll. Otherwise, let the folks like MetroMan and Anders come in and bring their perspective … no hall passes required.
Surely, Anders likes barbecue and good music, too. Anders, as we know, likes baseball, and brings a good, polite perspective regarding the grand ol’ game. That makes Anders fine in my book, for whatever it’s worth.
The Scribe abides.
—30—
By Steve Elliott
August 2, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this
You have to have a 4 man rotation to win it all. Cox has proven over and over again that the three man doesn’t work. Over the last 20 years almost all of the series winners have went four man. Even if you lose every 4th game you need the other three to get the rest to be 100% effective. I’ll take 3 out of 4 in the playoffs, anytime.
By TheSouthernJackAss
August 2, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this
Anders says he is here looking for a different perspective on his team…maybe if he pulled his head out of his @$$, he would have it…and yank Salty’s head out too while he’s at it…has to be a bit crowded with both of those A$sClowns crammed up in there…
By caveman22
August 2, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this
paladin
so you consider yourself the “enforcer” of the blog?? How does one gain that position??
I mean - seriously- you couldn’t enforce the jaywalking law at a school for cripples!!
By Will
August 2, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this
Tampa Brave, You were right buddy, i fully admit i pretty much thought you were an idiot about the Braves getting Tex(although that was partially cause you wanted to trade Edgar). I was wrong and can admit it.
By Anders
August 2, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this
Paladin - Not sure if your Shea question was serious but it was named after Bill Shea who was the architect of that now non descript stadium. It was actually one of if not the first columnless stadiums. As for all the Latins I happen to agree Minyaya has a propensity for them. I have no problem with Pedro, Beltran, Delgado, Reyes, ElDuque and the like. If any one of those guys was available two days ago they would have been snapped up in a minute. Worked out pretty well for us last year too. I don’t even mind Alou. If the guy can stay healthy he’s a bonafide .300 hitter. A big if but he’ll give us more than Floyd did last year.
By MGL
August 2, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this
Someone earlier alluded to the Julio vs Woodward being a financial decision. Not so. If someone picks up Julio, thay will pick up his salary (pro-rated minimum since the Mets are paying the rest. If Woodward is DFA’d and someone picks him up, they also are responsible for the rest of his salary - About $300+K.
By Pearl
August 2, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this
A song of great social and political import
Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a Texcedes Benz?
The New Yorkers all drive Porsches, They must make amends.
Worked hard all my lifetime, no help from my owners,
So Lord, won’t you buy me a Texcedes Benz?
Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a starting pitcher?
Dialing For Dollars is trying to find me.
I wait for postseason each year until October,
So oh Lord, won’t you buy me a starting pitcher?
Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a night in October?
I’m counting on you, Lord, please don’t let me down.
Prove that you love me and buy the next round,
Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a night in October?
Everybody!
Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a Texcedes Benz?
The New Yorkers all drive Porsches, They must make amends,
Worked hard all my lifetime, no help from my owners,
So oh Lord, won’t you buy me a Texcedes Benz?
That’s it!
By Gil in Mechanicsville
August 2, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this
Interested Observer Blaine got rocked in his last start. However, one must remember that pitching in the minors is different from pitching in the Bigs. Winning is not as important as learning. Perhaps he was trying a new pitch, don’t know.
The Braves retain full control of their minor league clubs. The pressure to win is not as great as some other minor league franchises. Take all stats with a grain of salt. There are many reasons for minor league baseball but for the Braves first and foremost is to develop players who are major league ready.
By Anders
August 2, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this
SJA is to obvious a villain for our movie - someone else has to be lying in the weeds. Not Paladin - we definetly turn him to the good side of town. I’ll keep you posted as the script develops.
By ACB
August 2, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this
TampaBrave-Dude, Getting stoked is always good. I think I’ll go to that game, too. Where are they playing?
By TheSouthernJackAss
August 2, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this
Paladin—stand your ground…you have as much right to post your comments on this blog as anyone else…don’t let some condescending know-it-all spoil your fun…it would be better to talk football all day long, rather than to even mention the stinkin’ Mets in passing…TheJackAss out…
By TexasBrave
August 2, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this
I too would like to see Andruw back next year and for years to come. However, there are a couple of different things to consider. In no particular order: 1. It’s great that Liberty Media has put up some money to allow us to compete for a World Series, but I don’t think it is enough to sign Andruw and keep Tex at the same time. It’s most definitely not enough to keep those two and Edgar after next year. But that’s another discussion. 2. Although the last time Andruw went through contract talks his dad (or uncle I can’t remember which) did most of the talking with Borass as a observer I don’t think the Braves are going to offer enough to give Andruw the chance to give Atlanta the home town discount. Remember what JS did with Glavine. He offered a contract but it was considerably less than what Tommy was worth and he had to go elsewhere. I think Andruw would stay for less than his market value, but not at a ridiculously lower amount that I bet JS offers.
We can replace Andrew but it just will not be the same without him.
By Renegator
August 2, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this
Is that Caveman22 in da house? Where you been brother?
By Anders
August 2, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this
Question to those of you who care to answer. - What’s the feeling with Braves fans about Glavine going for his 300th? In NY it’s hardly getting any play at all. A-Rod going 0-21 while trying to hit his 500th isn’t helping.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
August 2, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this
MGL T’was I who broached the financial aspect of the DFA of Julio. I thought Woodward signed for about 2 million but I guess I was mistaken. I would suspect Julio was the one player the Braves felt would clear waivers. This all may become moot anyway
in the next few days.
By Hal
August 2, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this
Any word yet on Carlyle’s elbow?
By Greg in TN
August 2, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this
Morning one and all…
Nothing like scoring runs by the dozen to perk up the overall mood of Planet Braves. I realize that realistically we won’t get this kind of offensive output every night, however I do think that the margin of error for the pitching staff has widened right now, which is always welcome.
Runs were at a premium before because we went through a little rut and the bats went cold just about all the way through the lineup. Now we’re seeing the pendulum shift and everyone is swinging the hot bat and we’re warming up for a very critical stretch run. I know we’ll be up for the mets and phillies and I know they’ll be up for us. In my mind, the teams we need to perform better against are the Marlins and Nats. After all gang, we have 12 games against both teams during the stretch run and we haven’t exactly been world beaters against either going back a couple of seasons.
Win each series from here on out and everything else will take care of itself.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
August 2, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this
While I would’ve liked to have seen Woodward handed his walking papers, the Braves made the right move. As many have said, if they would’ve released Thorman, he surely would’ve been claimed off waivers. By placing Julio on waivers they know that nobody will claim him. Once he clears they can send him down to the minors and not lose Thorman. When the rosters expand September 1st they can bring Julio back up then. If the Braves make the playoffs, they could add Julio to the playoff roster and leave Thorman off without the risk of losing him.
Another interesting thing to watch with the September callups will be who gets called up. I wonder if somebody like Lillibridge or Prado comes up and tears it up if Woodward would get left off the playoff roster (assuming the Braves make it). One could only hope.
By Will
August 2, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this
Texas Brave, I appreciate everything Andruw is done here, but he cannot come back. He will get a bigger contract elsewhere and while he is still the best centerfielder defensively he is in a decline. I think Andruw will be a .250 at best hitter the rest of his career and you cant pay 15 mil a year to a guy to do that. That being said it will be incredibly weird without him as a Brave.
By TheSouthernJackAss
August 2, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this
TheSouthernJackAss is liked by no one on this blog, and prefers it that way…however, that gives TheJackAss freedom to say whatever the hell he wants without the fear of “pi$$ing” anyone off…
So here you go—you people disgust me beyond belief…David O’Brien and the AJC should just shut this damned blog down…the Braves went out and improved their team more so than in over a decade…brought one of the best players in the game to the Braves…improved the bullpen…seem to be developing an attitude of winning again—-and all you spoiled, ungrateful air-heads want to do is sit here all day and suck up to these obnoxious, condescending, so-called Mets fans, and talk about the Mets…now if that pi$$es some of you off, then you’ll just have to go change your drawers…
Disgusting!…
Unbelievable!…
By Lew
August 2, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this
Anders-No, we really don’t want a return of the Launching Pad. I’d really like to have Knoc A Homa’s teepee back, though. We always seemed to crush the opposition when the teepee was in the stands. I’ve got to ask, though-Just what’s up with that stupid Apple? BravesFan 79-Dude, you really need to get over your Woodward fixation. Apparently he’s here to stay. It is now in the realm of getting over Bate A Meat being gone and Salty being in Texas. You just have to get over it-it’s a fait accompli (how’s THAT for your French, Scoots?). It will severely affect your health if you don’t. Hey, don’t feel too bad-there’s more chance of Woodward leaving before BC does. How do you think that makes Robert feel? He’s going to overdose on Twinkies waiting for Bobby’s retirement. Maybe exercise and cutting out caffeine will help you.
By Will
August 2, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this
Tom Glavine is my all-time favorite braves pitcher, i loved that guy and am rooting for him to win his 300th, although i am not gonna complain if he doesnt do it the rest of the year caues a win for him is a win for the Mets.
By Bob
August 2, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this
Hey Paladin,
Semper Fi guy. I will probably be with you on the Dawgs Blog in about a month, but save a little time for this one too. Got a good feeling that this might be a very special September/October.
By David O'Brien
August 2, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this
Hal, it’t note even noon, man. Where are you gonna get word on Carlyle’s elbow? The Braves don’t call their guys in the morning to check on previous night’s injuries, then give us an update.
And they made it pretty clear after the game, it wasn’t a big deal. Or at least it sure didn’t seem a big deal. He talked to us without a wrap or ice and he picked up his chair and turned it around without favoring the elbow whatsoever.
But we won’t really know anything until he throws, probably tomorrow.
By Bob
August 2, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this
Anders,
I want Tommy to get his 300th, but only if the Braves pass the Mets and have clinched a playoff spot. Unlike a lot of the Braves Fans, I appreciate what he did for us. I understand his union stance, even though I did not like it. I also understand him going for the bucks, but going to the Mets for me would be akin to Mark Richt going to the Gators.
So while I want him to get it, I want it to happen only after the NL East is decided.
By David O'Brien
August 2, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this
TampaBrave, the injury had nothing to do with “exposing” his elbow. He took a hard swing and missed the ball. He didn’t get hit in the elbow.
All wondering, Julio had nothing to do with finances. Woodward’s making $1 mill, and they kept him because he plays a bunch of positions and they didn’t want to expose Thorman to waivers. They’d have three first baseman if they kept Thor, Julio and Tex. And their backup third baseman and backup shortstop would have to be their platoon second baseman in that case. Not a good arrangement.
By Arkansas Hillbilly
August 2, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this
Happy 72nd Birthday, Hank Cochran, singer/songwriter…..
“Make the world go away,
get it off my shoulders.
say the things you used to say,
and make the world go away.” (Honeysuckle Rose, 1980-a very highly recommended soundtrack by the Hillbilly)
By BamaBrave
August 2, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this
There was a good article here just the other day Anders regarding the Glavine milestone and his mixed popularity within the Braves Nation. Not sure if it can still be found, but it was good. For me, I’m generally indifferent about his 300th win. There are things about him I like, and things I dislike. I lean towards the negative, though, because of three facts: 1) He became the enthusiastic poster-boy for the ‘94 strike. All his old homeys like Lemke, Smoltz, etc. never address that when they say they don’t understand why fans wouldn’t like Glavine. 2) For all his ‘95 World Series heroics, he was effing horrible in playoff scenarios after that, on balance. He refused to adjust his tactics, and it used to frustrate me to no end. 3) When he did jump, he jumped to the Mets. This last one doesn’t bother me as much in retrospect, because post-Glavine Braves teams have usually beaten him..sometimes badly. Those games were fun. You’ll get lots of different takes on this…that just my two cents.
By flange1
August 2, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this
Anders,
I am not a huge Glavine fan based on his union views and his decisions to leave the Braves for the Mets and the way he handled his last contract, but I am very interested in watching get his 300 wins.
He might be a jerk in my book, but he is a HOF lefty that came up as a Brave and we were fortunate to see him most of his career. Heck, he might be the last 300 game winner for awhile.
Braves fans are real lucky to have seen Smoltz, Glavine, Maddox, Chipper and Andruw for this long!
By Lew
August 2, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this
Now someone again mentioned Edgar being gone after next year. Is it becoming necessary (just like telling those who want to trade Andruw) to scream it in all caps? People-Y’all, Edgar is signed through 2009. The Braves hold a club option for him in 09. IF they opt to NOT pick up said option (which anyone not doing so would be a damn fool), Boston is responsible for the buyout. Sheesh. Holy Cornelia. Do y’all now understand this? Two more years on Renteria’s contract. TWO. Oh yeah-You can’t trade Andruw, either. Have you heard?
By BravesFanInRockies
August 2, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this
R(JITB),
I’m not sure September callups can be added to the playoff roster; unless they’re on the 25-man or the DL before Aug. 31, I believe they can’t be used after the regular season. If I recall, the famous “wheeze kid” Phillies in ‘83 used a bunch of Sept. callups to rest their old farts (Morgan, Rose, Schmidt, etc.). The kids won the division but weren’t allowed to play in the postseason.
May be wrong about this. But that’s why at least one denizen was speculating last night that one or more minor-leaguers may be activated Aug. 31. Again, don’t know how the rules handle that.
By Paladin
August 2, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this
Thanks, SJA and Bob. And it is obvious that the Muts don’t have the only cretins. We have our “cavemen”, too.
SJA…It was ironic that you came on when you did. I was “off” looking for one of your quotes from last night(I couldn’t find it)to use on these lets-take-up-for-Anders-and-make-Paladin-look-bad types. It went, and forgive me if I mess it up, “if you are going to kiss their shoes, make sure you have on your lip gloss”. I think some of these folks are kissin’ higher than the shoes and need more protection than lip gloss.
And, I ain’t running for anything on here, either.
Now, I’ll wait until the I-should-be-working-but-would-rather-blog(isn’t that “theft of services”?)go home to Mama and the “real” bloggers come on.
By TampaBrave
August 2, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this
ACB
Can’t remember where the game is? Old lady is drivin. She’ll probably knows. All I know is its gonna be righteous. Mets are going down.
By NCBravesFan
August 2, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this
I think that it was probably made clear (or it was clear) to Julio that this was a possibility before he signed. I mean, the Braves were getting nothing out of the 1B position … and these guys know the numbers game when it comes to the roster far better than any of us on the blog.
Longer term, I bet the Braves will bring him into the fold as a coach, whether or not he gets picked up on waivers (which is not likely when you think about it).
By TampaBrave
August 2, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this
Lew,
How’s the maple syrup internet sales coming along?
By Miss Manners
August 2, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this
Caveman is back and it makes you ask, is he always this stupid or is he making a special effort today? I don’t know what makes him so dumb but it really works. The nearest he’ll ever get to a brainstorm is a light drizzle. Miss Manners
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 2, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this
Jacka$$, I w/ you about not talking about the Mets too much but I also agree w/ ssiscribe about Mets fans. Sports is a way to get away from all the crap going on around us and enjoy ourselves. It should be about fun. I don’t care to talk to Mets troll but Anders sounds like he knows what he’s talking about. A couple days ago a mail carrier wearing a Mets hat tried to hand me my mail. I told him I couldn’t accept it from an enemy fan. We both had a good laugh, a quick talk and he went his way. As long as a guy isn’t bashing the Braves just to get a rise and as long as he knows what he’s talking about, it can be a good time talking and taking humerous jabs at an opposing fan. If we can’t turn to sports to get away for a while many of us would be lost.
By Arkansas Hillbilly
August 2, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this
Lew,
Get it straight, dude. We can trade Andruw. Edgar is gone after this month. Thorman has options. Chipper can move to first base. Oswalt acted alone. Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds is about LSD. The world is flat. Paris Hilton feels sorry for what she’s done. Come on man…don’t you know facts??? ; - )
By Anders
August 2, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this
Lew- Good question about the apple. I have no idea why that piece of crap remains. They just repaint it and fire it up every year. The damn thing has dents all over it. That said, I wouldn’t mind getting my hands on it when they shut the place down - just for nostalgic reasons.
By TexasBrave
August 2, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this
Another topic of conversation that has been broached on this blog before is what to do with Edgar. One train of thought (not mine) is to trade him for a really good starting pitcher. The other arguement is to ride that horse until he is worn out. I like the latter. Yes, Edgar would fetch a quality arm on the trade market and Yes, we do have Escobar to replace him and perhaps he will be as good or a little better than Rent defensively. But I don’t think he will be able to match Edgar’s offensive output that we would surely miss. I don’t think anyone here can say that Edgar hasn’t been the one true catalyst on the Braves (he does lead the team in runs scores). Although Escobar is having a good season he will not ever be as productive as Edgar is now.
Lastly, there is room for both of them. Andruw, unfortunately, will be gone next year. As much as I like Diaz and Willie I think we need to use them to find a #3 to 5th starter or even trade for a good man in center and place KJ in left and Escobar at 2nd. That still leaves us with a Murder’s Row of a line up with who ever JS finds to play center.
By ACB
August 2, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this
TampaBrave, I heard the Mets were going down on each other as well.
And Lew’s syrup business is sweet, dude.
By Chris
August 2, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this
Julio is a far better option than Woodward or Thorman. Unreal that they didn’t keep him for a pinch-hitting role.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
August 2, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this
Well said, SJA. Well said.
By FairWeatherBraveFanHater
August 2, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this
Another thing….I would much rather talk to an educated Mets fan than a fair weather Braves fan anytime.
Anders just b/c a few of us rational Braves fans are speaking up or defending you doesn’t mean you can turn into another Muts drool guy and ruin it. If you want to talk about wins, losses, wire moves and things that matter, thats cool. We can be civilized fans from opposite teams and enjoy having fun on each others expense w/o letting it get the best of us. This is a SPORTS(BRAVES and competition) blog, so lets keep it that way.
By Paladin
August 2, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this
Hillbiilly The scary part is that your post makes more sense than most of the others put on here today.
By David O'Brien
August 2, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this
Hillbilly, that was good stuff (Paris, Lucy in the Sky, etc)…
Record recommendation: The new Spoon album, Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga. Yes, the name is stupid, but the album is great. Like everything else this Austin, Texas rock band has put out. Tremendous, underrated band. Be the first on your block….
Just saw what Kurkijan wrote in ESPN The (terrible) Magazine (hey, I get it free with my ESPN Insider annual fee). He wrote that “friends of Scott Boras” say the agent expects to get $36 mill annually for A-Rod and $30 mill annually for Teixeira.
Let me go on record: Teixeira will not get $30 mill per year. or $25 mill per year.
Great hitter, great all-around player. Not going to get $25 mill per year, though.
By Anders
August 2, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this
Good feedback on Glavine. He definetly doesn’t sound like a huge fan favorite. He doesn’t have nearly the time in NY but he’s not overly popular here either. Sitting around waiting for JS to call until Christmas last winter certainly didn’t help him with Mets fans. The Mets were clearly his 2nd if not 3rd or 4th choice. Watching him pitch is like watching paint dry too. Just throw the F….. ball over the plate already!!!
By Paladin
August 2, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this
Hey Anybody, who has been the least bit critical of the Braves’ organization, team, players, bat boys, et al, FairweatherBraveFanHater* just called you out. Can I hold your coat while y’all fight?
By Rodger
August 2, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this
Lew,
I’d really like to have Knoc A Homa’s teepee back, though. We always seemed to crush the opposition when the teepee was in the stands.
Are you for real? Remember the 70’s? I don’t remember too much winning, but the teepee was there!
Caveman
I was just wondering where the he!! you’d been. Thought maybe Paladin was here to fill in for ya.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
August 2, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this
If Boras thinks he is going to get somebody to pony up $30 mil a year for Tex then he better impress upon Tex that not only does Tex have to lead the Braves to a title this year but next year as well. Now, A-Rod will get his money. No doubt about that!
By DAP
August 2, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this
can the braves afford to trade renteria after this season? no doubt the now potent offnse would be very different without him…it actually scares me to think what it would be like. imagine the hit our linup would take if we lost both andruw AND edgar. i wouldnt want to do it without both these guys, but maybe without one of them. it is a really tuff desicion. i like this team so much the way it is now, i hope we can keep everyone, but we’ll have to see.
who in the lineup does everyone think we can count on being a brave next year? i think we can count on having chipper, escobar, kelly, tex, mccann, and frenchy.
who do you guys think is a sure thing to be gone next year? i think woodward, wickman, and thorman will all be gone for sure.
i think this is an extremly interesting team to be following right now!
By David O'Brien
August 2, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this
Oh, and Kurkijan had a great stat about Hoss.
“Chipper Jones has a better slugging percentage than any third baseball in the Hall of Fame, including Eddie Mathews and Mike Schmidt, and the only HOF 3B with a higher OBP is Wade Boggs.”
Wow. Gotta admit, I didn’t know that. That’s pretty impressive.
By Anders
August 2, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this
Fairweather - Fair enough. But I will defend myself when some of those on this blog, we all know who they are, come at me. That said, I can’t believe how much time and energy has been spent on the Franco, Woodward, Thorman issue. Honestly, two weeks ago would you think that would be the most important problem facing the Braves. You have to be happy with that. For my two cents I think JS and Cashman have agreed to sit tight on Farnsworth to see how NY first base deal shakes out. Giambi is due back any day but he’s always one swing away from the DL as is Damon who has actually been filling in at first sporadically. Otherwise it’s been Andy Phillips who is a Sid Bream type - good glove so-so bat. If things break right you might see a Thorman for Farnsworth deal. What do the Braves have to lose? They’d be stockpiling bullpen arms for guy they don’t have a home for. Nothing wrong with that.And the Yankees get another lefty option at first even if it’s just for September. Who’s more desperate determines who pays Farnworth’s $’s.
By BamaBrave
August 2, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this
Only in a baseball blog could we get Lee Harvey Oswald and Roy Oswalt mixed up…classic.
I certainly agree Teixeira won’t get $25-$30 million per year, but I hope he plays so well over the next year and a half, that teams might actually think about it…
By Bob
August 2, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this
Anders,
That is one area I do disagree with you on Glavine. I love to watch him nibble the corners and the frustration on the batters face. He is like an artist, when he is on. That being said, I love it when the Braves pound the crap out of him even better. I hope he gets his 300th the 30th of September once the division is in Atlanta’s possession.
By Paladin
August 2, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this
Tommy…Go take a P.
By Halloweenhead (eware)
August 2, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this
DOB, could you give us a history on Ron Mahey? Boog and Joe were talking about his career last night and it sounded pretty interesting.
I like guys that persevere like that.
By the way, you’re right about that Spoon album. I think its great.
So is the newest (like lat last year)self-titled Ben Kweller album. I’ve always had a hard time listening to him, but I really enjoy this one.
By Greg
August 2, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this
DOB:
One question on the Franco mess. If he comes up in September with the expanded roster, is he eligible for the playoffs? Julio is a much better pinch hitter than Woodward or Thorman.
By JasonInMaine
August 2, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this
If A-Roid and Tex get that kind of money, I may have to find something else to do other than follow baseball…
By Hal
August 2, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this
Thanks Dave. I hadn’t heard anything and was getting worried. Sounds like it is a one start deal AT MOST.
“….they made it pretty clear after the game, it wasn’t a big deal. Or at least it sure didn’t seem a big deal. He talked to us without a wrap or ice and he picked up his chair and turned it around without favoring the elbow whatsoever.”
By AthensBrave
August 2, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Boras is unbelievable. 30$ million a year for Tex? No way that happens.
A-Rod is the only player that can demand that much, and Im not sure he’s worth it
By ncscoots
August 2, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
Re Edgar’s future with the Braves, I’ll admit that losing the offense of both Andruw and Edgar in the offseason would be unsettling. But while the Braves might move KJ to LF and Escobar to 2B, I hardly think playing two players out of position is their Plan A.
The question to be answered, IMO, is are the Braves a better team with Edgar and one of the two playing every day, or better with both playing every day plus whatever Edgar brings in trade? It’s a tough question, impacted by any outfield moves the Braves will make (rook or vet?), and how they see their pitching needs in the offseason. But my guess (at least today, LOL) is that the Braves will move him.
By Anders
August 2, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
DOB - I agree with you on Tex’s value, however, the inportant thing to take from this is how Boras views him. I read this as Tex will go to the highest bidder. Nothing new for Boras but he sure didn’t wait long to put the worry in Braves fans.Look out for 2009 - Assuming A-Rod moves on next year the Yanks will have huge money opening up for 2009. They’ll be after the likes of Tex and Santana if they don’t have him by then already. Plus I think they get Cabrera from the Marlins if A-Rod walks. They actually have valuable prospects to trade.
By jimmy smith, ugandan jouranlist
August 2, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
“He talked to us without a wrap or ice and he picked up his chair and turned it around without favoring the elbow whatsoever.” - dob
that is some fine journalism.
contrast this action by buddy with the reaction to the hammock bone injury suffered earlier by another player. it was painful to put on socks - and this player puts on lots of socks. and why so many socks you say? card sharps sometimes hide cards in their socks. is there an extra old maid card in these socks? oh, wandering off subject …
and it is good that buddy could pick up a chair in this manner.
now, mark derosa comes to mind … a good ballplayer who was handed a starting position by the braves and was found to be wanting. the braves dismissed mark derosa. mark derosa bloomed a little later with the rangers and is now a starter with the cubs. this is why thorman must be retained in this organization. thorman has big potential - but a lumberjack’s swing. can someone not improve that swing (mccann’s daddy comes to mind). and who remembers that canadians orr and thorman worked on batting together in the off-season? oh, the humanity! they are both messed up.
and when looking for a leader on this team … would not renteria be a great example?
and now … the cards were face down on the table and it was again time for the player on hoss’ left to select one of hoss’ cards. chino cadahia was that player. chipper watched as again and again as play moved around the table and chino would thoughtfully select a card from chipper’s stack and then discard two cards of chino’s own. chino never got close to picking up the old maid. chipper began to sweat profusely and the famous chipper chin began to twitch in cadence to the now-annoying tap, tap, tap of tushy’s toes on the clubhouse floor. chipper had never played a game of old maid where the old maid card was in play from the outset. how would chipper discard the old maid before it was too late?
then, an eerie silence was broken when tushy asked … “why don’t we make this game a little more interesting …?”
By Scott Boras
August 2, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this
Tex will make 30 mill per and you biaatches will pay 8 bucks a beer for it and beg for more. Learn your place. You exist to make me and my clients rich. End of Story.
By Lee in South GA
August 2, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this
I have no problem with Glavine and most people would have done the same in his shoes as a union rep or they would have not been doing their jobs. Not going to criticized a pitcher who pitched the only World Series clincher game ever won by an Atlanta Braves team. He went to the Mets….big deal…what have they done since. Who is to say Tex may not sign with them eventually or McCann or Francour becoming a Met one day. Everyone going to hate them as a person then. That is baseball.