Braves

By KC

August 5, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

DOB: “Gotta say, Hudson’s defied skeptics (including myself) who believed his downward trend began in his last season in Oakland and that after the first two seasons with the Braves, he just wasn’t going to be the ace he once was.”

You guys really should listen to me!

Willie Harris was the other guy I was criticized for insisting would help this team.

It’s hard being right all the time. Well… okay, not ALL the time. Just 99%. =)

By NCBravesFan

August 5, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Welcome back, DOB. Hope the rest was good after all the trade deadline shuffling.

Let’s win today Braves!

By Dylan

August 5, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave glad your back on this hot afternoon. I just picked up two really good soundtracks you should give a listen to. The “Once Soundtrack” done by the lead singer of The Frames whose newest album is absolute class you should check that out as well. Also the Loudon Wainwright lll soundtrack of the Knocked Up movie called Strange Weirdos. It serves as his new album and it’s the best thing he’s done in over a decade. I usually hate soundtracks being an album fan myself but these 2 are more albums inspired by but just a thought. GO BRAVES!

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Id have to say james is doing his work….Is tex into braves mode already? Come on guys, at least tie this game up to make things easier for james.

By Savannah Guy

August 5, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

Just got back home and now for a little Bravos and catchin’ up on the blog. I see, along with some sound advice given, there was a special request by a gumbo cookin’ guy for a Daily Buzz report. I’ll see if I can track down the Fly. He must be around somewhere.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

That HR kills…

It sucks when you fight to tie it up and on ONE PITCH you give the lead RIGHT BACK!

Chuck needs to throw strikes and the Offense needs to get it going here!

By Steve from OH

August 5, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Well, Corky can’t hit but he’s pretty decent behind the plate. Nice play there on the Francoeur throw.

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

come on B R A V O S……..we can do better than this, rockies are not showing anything we can not take care of….. Take the game, they are within reach.

There you go jeff…….. thats a boost for adrenaline.

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Reposted:

Chase: I posted around 10, 10:30 this morning on the old blog. Not hiding one bit. Why would I? I went to bed and the METS were in 1st, woke up this morning and what do you know, they were still in 1st. I blog when I can, (mostly at work) so dont look for me after every win and lost, Im not THAT type of fan. However I see you guys go looking for METS fans when they lose and this blog gets quiet after fans finish venting immediately after a braves lost. Dont throw stones man……

KC: My info comes from a buddy who attends games and is a resident of Texas. I TALK live baseball with people, not just net baseball. Dont be upset becasue I relayed a fans opinion of Tex who has seen him play on a daily basis compared to braves fans who hasnt heard his name since he left GT. Of course all of this will be proven by the end of the season whether he is clutch or my buddy’s scouting report has any merit.

Chase, I could have buried the braves when they played sorry stretches but saved the blog from my venom. Dont get it twisted, I know the rules here and who is thick skinned and who needs a pacifier. You guys make good points but the personal attacts have got to stop…..one day

LETS GO METS and Rox for 1 day!!!!

By Chase

August 5, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

BIG KNOCK CHIPPER!!!!!!!!!!!

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Any braves fans rooting for Glavine to get 300? This weekend could possibly remembered as the most memorable becasue of all the milestones reached. Just think about it. If you love baseball and you are around the 30 year range like myself, we may not see anything more than possibly A-Rod catching Hank/Bonds. Especially if Canseco’s new book does not say that A-rod had assistance in hitting the bombs.

I cant stand Chumper. When is he taking that periodic 2 week vacation to make Smoltz head steam?????

By FairWeatherBraveFanHater

August 5, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

DOB That is 1 of the things I like about the job you do. You are not scared or ashamed of admitting when you feel you’ve made a mistake. Saying you were wrong about Willie was the right thing to do. How many times have we seen a player change teams and starts blowing away there career stats. I guess it has to do w/ a player being comfortable. Look at Renteria…he played great ball in St Louis then played a season in Boston where he definitely wasn’t comfortable, then came to Atlanta where he picked up the last 2 years where he left off w/ the Cards.

Look at that arm by Frenchy!!! He’s playing the position that he needs to.

I mentioned last night that we’ve had some problems playing small ball. When we have a guy at 3rd w/ less than 2 outs we have to get him in. If it weren’t for defensive trouble we wouldn’t have scored. Need to work on small ball.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

METRO MAN

You didn’t post until late this morning… BUT I really was talking more about ANDERS, NCZ, and METS RULE!!!

They talk far far more trash than you sir!

and if you didn’t notice I put in (and mets non-trolls) into my post mainly with you and sometimes Anders in mind!

By FairWeatherBraveFanHater

August 5, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

That’s what I’m talking about baby. Go Chipper. What do you do when small ball isn’t working? Hit it long.

TEX, TEX

By FairWeatherBraveFanHater

August 5, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Corky needs to use his name when batting. Sosa knows what I mean.

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

This will go on and on and on…. This is the way we are capable of playing man. And edgar is not even playing. Chuckie is doing very well and im sure buddy will do ok in game #1, im more concern about smoltz than buddy, something smelled fishy last outing. Tim is set to go.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Chuck is doing his best to give the LEAD RIGHT BACK AGAIN!

By FairWeatherBraveFanHater

August 5, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Kidding, of course!

By Chop Chop

August 5, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Chuck James needs to study with a Zen master. Maybe that will help him focus.

By JasonInMaine

August 5, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

I think Chuck should work on his craft as well as his conditioning in the offseason as opposed to installing windows…

You guys who think Chuck is a solid #3 are crazy…good #4…it sure would have been nice to have an easy inning after finally getting the lead…

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

I appreciate the sentiment Chase and if its any consultation, I only bash the braves when the METS get demolished on this blog like they are the worst team in professional sports. I know they are the most hated in Atl and the Bx, but they are not the worst. They actually have some talent. Me, I know I hate the braves and until the METS started winning, I refused to give them their respect for what they achieved. This venom we spew for our squads has a hint of fear of the other team we despise!!!

By Chop Chop

August 5, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

I like Chuck, but it seems like he can’t make adjustments on the mound. It happens no matter who is behind the plate, so it’s obviously his own issue. He keeps getting the hook in the sixth inning and he’s helping to wear out the bullpen.

That’s our third starter, folks.

(insert gloom and doom here)

By BravesDave

August 5, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Jeez, Chuck James is the most maddening pitcher. Also, a lot of bloggers have been lobbying for Moylan to get the 8th inning job…but does anyone else wich he was in the game right now instead of Yates??? I do.

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

I don’t see how the team can continue with James as the third starter.The guy can’t give you over 75 good pitches and he never will.With a 25 man roster the way the pen is used today it weakens the whole pitching staff.

By The Grinch

August 5, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Morning, all! Wow, my head hurts for some reason. Paladin, I don’t recall a time where I ever “duked it out” with Lew; he and I give each other crap every now and then for fun but I can’t recall a single time I’ve ever actually been angry at him. I can’t help it if he’s a self-centered, more-knowlegable-than-thou attention hog. He’s still a Dawg, and we must all stick together. :-)

I agree if Ruth hadn’t spent 6 years as a pitcher (and a damn good one at that) and Ted hadn’t spent several of his peak years as a fighter pilot, one or the other of them would likely still be the HR king. Not to take anything away from Aaron, who I have the utmost respect for and always will. I stand by my comments made on Barry last night, however. And Bobby; I really do like the guy and his clubhouse achievements are legendary. I’ll be genuinely sorry when he retires; he’s been present and engineered some of my very fondest baseball moments and will be sorely missed. That said, while he’s never been a great in-game strategist, it’s never cost the team more than a couple of games a season in the past (though many of them were post-season games; alas). This year, the wheels seem to have come off for whatever reason. You can’t judge a man’s whole body of work on his final season or two (Biggio’s hitting .265 this year; is that what he’s gonna be remembered for?). The guy’s just losing his edge, and it’s starting to mount up in the loss column. Nothing ultimately wrong with that; when I’m his age (assuming that I make it that far) I’ll probably occasionally leave the house with my boxers on outside my pants. It happens to everyone.

What’s everyone so worked up for this morning?

By jimmy smith, ugandan songwriter

August 5, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

in tribute to that nice homerun:

Your hurtin’ web,

Will make you weep,

You’ll cry and cry,

And try to sleep,

But hits won’t come,

The whole game through,

Your hurtin’ web, will tell on you…

When tears come down,

Like falling rain,

You’ll swing around,

And feel the pain,

You’ll walk the floor,

The way I do,

Your hurtin’ web, will tell on you…

Your hurtin’ web,

Will heal some day,

And thumbs will twitch,

Most all the day,

The time will come,

When thumbs turn blue,

Your hurtin’ web, will tell on you…

When your web heals,

Like biscuits rise,

You’ll hit homeruns,

in Hoss disguise,

You’ll swing the bat,

The way I do,

Your hurtin’ web, will heal on you…

By Savannah Guy

August 5, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

The Daily Buzz (Fly on Wall Report No. 013)

The sleuth Fly reporter and John Schuerholz became close friends during the heady final days before the trading deadline. They have since gone their separate ways to continue their work. Fly has been hanging with some bullpen folks, mostly Wicky and Chad…er, Chaddy. Fly has swollen to the size of a bee.

(We pickup Mr. Fly’s report from the locker room after the game last night. Fly is comfortably positioned on a cheeseburger platter during the recorded conversation)

Chaddy: Man-o-man, Wicky. Yer closin’ up good lately.

Wicky: Nuttin’ to it kid. Just my job.

Chaddy: Nice divin’ catch Friday. You went all Sumo on that, dude! Ground crew’s still workin’ on the hole.

Wicky: mmmfph, mmfph, uh…huh?

Chaddy: And that final out last night! Wow! You went all Sumo-UPS-Delivery-Guy on that.

Wicky: Uh, thanks. Hey, why did Tex run off there?

Chaddy: Um…dunno. Maybe thought you were gonna run ‘im over. You were fallin…er, runnin’ pretty far towards first and all…

Wicky: Yep, couldn’t get that ball out of the webbing.

Chaddy: Glove problem?

Wicky: No…uh, it got stuck in the, uh…fold in my belly.

Chaddy: mmfp mmpf…yea, hate it when that happens.

By Bob, Journalist

August 5, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

BERIGAN, apologies for being a bit late in responding … thanks for the reference to the article on Kelly. I’ve looked but have not yet been able to find it.

Regarding an earlier post, I would think that the frequency and nature of participation by many are related to the environs and that the current state of ours is less conducive than is desirable … I for one certainly do find that to be the case.

Most Honorable Southern is held in disrepute by many, friends and foes alike … that’s understandable because of his style and history.

I can’t speak for others but while he may on occasion disappoint, I hold him in high regard as a blogger and bona fide member of the 3 digit club … Most Honorable is flawed as are we all but his flaws are no worse than mine and he knows when I disapprove … the Blog is certainly in disrepair but it is not he who makes it unpleasant for me.

Neither can I speak for him but methinks we share a mutual disdain for the insidious parasites now plaguing the Blog.

By FairWeatherBraveFanHater

August 5, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

First, Metro Spam, the reason you don’t like Chipper is b/c he wears out the Muts. He hits so well in NY he names his child after it.

As for Chuck, we just need to take him out after 5. He pitches lights out until the 5th and dies. It happens every time. I know it has become more mental than anything but this is terrible. I know it would be the wrong thing to do so I’m just speaking in anger. He needs to get over it though. It is going to kill our pen if everytime our #3 guy goes out, our pen comes in after the 5th. Like I said, he is the man until he hits the wall in the 5th.

Lets get some runs back

By Caleb

August 5, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

Wow! Yates possibly just saved the day. James did everything he could to blow that for himself and the Braves. Now let’s get a couple runs (again) and have the bullpen put up some zeros, and then enjoy the off-day.

By JasonInMaine

August 5, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Good job by Yates to keep it a 1 run game…now the offense has to step up…again…

By Lew

August 5, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Chip Caray needs to check his facts before he speaks. Chuck James is the recipient of a lot of offensive support? Is Chip serious? The Braves have scored 2 or fewer runs in 10 of Chuck’s starts. They were shut out in THREE of Chuck’s starts. A little research might just be something beneficial-especially when you have an in game statistician working for you right there.

By The Grinch

August 5, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

MetroMan, I’m rooting for Glavine to stay on 299 until he retires, then retire with a met cap on his head. Then start a business venture, forget to incorporate and get sued and lose all that money he sold his integrity, soul and fans out for. Maybe open a stand near the stadium to sign baeballs for food money where I can pelt it with rotten vegetables. Other than that, I wish him well. :-) No, man, I know you wouldn’t jump ship. Your obvious loyalty is one of your more endearing traits. I take loyalty very, very seriously; a man who would turn his back on you in a time of need is lower than a thief, pickpocket or current administration supporter IMO. Sorry, Wayne. :-)

By BravesDave

August 5, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

A great point by Joe Simpson during the last two games Chuck has pitched…he is a two-pitch pitcher. He only throws a fastball and a change. How can this guy have been in the Braves system since 2003 and not developed a third pitch??? This is the main reason for his struggles. By the third time through the order, hitters have the difference between his fastball and his change figured out. If he could develop a decent slider or curve, maybe he could be a solid #3. Unfortunately, his fastball-change combination allows hitters constantly foul off pitches, increasing his pitch count.

By Steve from OH

August 5, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Matt Diaz is a very good hitter.

By BravesDave

August 5, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Strange decision to have Escobar bunt with Corky Miller on deck, but it worked out. Nice job, Cork (as Bobby has been calling him all day).

By David O'Brien

August 5, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

Can’t stop Corky. Or even hope to contain him.

By the way, Chuck would be great if the games were 7 innings, like high school games. Then you could bring in the pen in the sixth or seventh.

The kid looks great for 4-5 innings most games, then hits a wall in one of the middle innings, usually fifth or sixth. Don’t know if he loses concentration, but I’d guess it’s that rather than tiring in most games. He’s not big, but he’s in good shape, don’t think it’s fatigue.

Also, I don’t know that he makes any adjustments to hitters, and the second or third time they face him, guys are able to get more comfortable and the deceptive delivery might not be as much a factor by then.

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

You guys nedd to relax. a 3.84 ERA pitcher is a good #3 pitcher. Numbers dont lie, and he even started with a lower ERA than that. We are in the game, it is very important he figures out how to go 1 to 2 IP more, and i dont think that task is impossible for a kidd so young. Be patient people, the game is about to be won by the braves, thats all we want right now, things will come together soon.

By bfan54

August 5, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

I came in from taking the grandkids to the water park just in time to see a first pitch double by Tyler Yates, relieving Chucky after 5 innings. I immediately started hearing “I got you, babe!”. Can’t we all just get an out? Jeesh!

By JasonInMaine

August 5, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

BravesDave,

I made that point about Chuck quite a while back and got ragged on by quite a few…

The offense does it again…now time for the pen to do it’s part…

By Bryan

August 5, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

F#! Barry Bonds, 714 F#!^&% home runs …

read this onion article (i know its cheep to post onion articles in an attempt to be humorous but this one is just too good in light of todays news story).

By David O'Brien

August 5, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Overlord, good point about Chuck. He’s been solid overall, and Braves would be in first place if they’d had one more like him this season.

By the way, that was Corky’s first major league double since the 2002 season.

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

As far as i can recall, on august 1st it was said that the braves might have just shortened games to 6 innings because of the bullpen help they got. Lets see if they do what was said. I think they will, they are good enough.

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

FairWeatherBraveFanHater: You are right, Chumper has wore the METS out and maybe after he retires I will get to appreciate what he did for the game and not what he did to my METS.

Grinch: The best scenario would be for Glavine not to get to 3000 until he pitches against the braves (no-decsions we win until then). Now that would be justice served for all the braves fans who refuse to remember or accept what he did here. He should be a local ATL hero because even though he pitches for the METS, I still despise him. Getting 300 means nothing when nearly 250 wins came as a brave.

By David O'Brien

August 5, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

And now we have a steamy drizzle coming down on the patrons here at Turner Field. Actually, surprised some are seeking cover, because I’d imagine it feels better than it did before it started raining….

By JasonInMaine

August 5, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Overlord,

He only has 9 quality starts and hits the wall after 75 pitches…and get out of the 5th n most starts…that is not a solid 3…now, I am not discounting Chuck altogether…think he is going to get better, but we need more out of the 3 spot with the pen being so taxed…Dotel doesn’t appear to be the answer either…is the pen going to blow it again?????????

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

Every time I see Harris dive for a ball that Andruw catches in his sleep the reality of not having Jones next season (most likely) overrides my angst at his cement headed hitting.

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

DOB in my opinion, i would thing it is the 2nd thing you mentioned (lack of adjustment) or tiring, I dont think he can constantly go through lack of concentration precisely in 5th and 6th of almost every game. Thats my point of view. He could be in good shape, slim and all that, but that was one also hudsons problem last years, cramps and fatigue, and he has always look in shape to me.

By JasonInMaine

August 5, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

And the O is going to have to pick up the pen again…

I wonder if they considered walking helton to set up the righty vs. Righty and with Helton’s career average with RISP…

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Anybody still think Dotel was a good pickup ? I’ll reiterate,Ascanio would have been more valuable to the team. DOB James throws like his body’s paralyzed.His body doesn’t get fatigued because it doesn’t work but his arm tires and it always will (as long as he throws like that).

By Steve from OH

August 5, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Dotel’s stuff looked good, but his location was a bit suspect. He’ll be a huge asset down the stretch.

By The Grinch

August 5, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

If I didn’t remember or appreciate what he did here, I wouldn’t hate him so much for selling us out, my friend. He played here the first 16 seasons of his career, was largely responsible for taking this team out of the horror of the 1980’s and making them a consistant powerhouse, he pitched some of our greatest games including the WS winner, and in return the city made him rich beyond any sane human’s wildest expectations…children lined up for days to get his autograph and do whatever they could to be like him one day. So what does Mr. Atlanta, the city’s greatest role model who got rich the right way do? Turn down a 3 year 30 million offer from the team that allowed him to get in that position to take a 3 year 33 million offer to hop over to their greatest rivalry. I expect when you factor in cost of living and travel expenses to see his family, he actually lost money in that deal. How many little fans of his learned that making 111 mil instead of 110 is worth your loyalty and integrity? 10,000? 50,000? The man deserves to get run over by a bus.

By JasonInMaine

August 5, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Yes, in the long run, dotel wll be an asset…he’s got a great arm and hasn’t pitched a lot this year…he will get his location down and be alright…but, he’s got a little work to do on locating the ball…

By Bob, Journalist

August 5, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

My thanks to esteemed man from the Savannah for his 10:36 AM … as I am not generally disposed to directly reply to inane posts such as the to which you responded. Well said, as per usual!

However, for those who might be so interested, it was certainly was not my intent to be indefinite or to include “veiled” insinuations in that which I wrote as referenced in your fine response.

I see that the succinct Scoots is also accused of being as “indefinite” as we, so perhaps that word has a meaning of which I am unaware.

It is not my custom to address folks with .50 intelligence … whatever that is … but if I so did, I would never lay claim to having so done.

Savannah, It sounds to me like you were responding to one of the Bard’s creations … a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury … signifying nothing.

Apologies to Scoots for my explaining the obvious … creation of the Bard … but it was for the benefit of any who might be of .50 intelligence, again whatever that is.

As an aside, I just received notice that a portion of the royalties from the airlines’ showing of “Beat The Drum” in December is being used by my friends at Glory Outreach Ministries to construct a large, modern orphanage complex in Kenya. It will be dedicated to the glory of God and to Mama.

It would be wonderful to be able attend the ceremonies.

By FairWeatherBraveFanHater

August 5, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Overlord, I agree about Chuck. I like him a lot and think he’s a great pitcher but at this point you have to look at more than just ERA when you look at him. More so than many others. You have to look at the toll it takes on the pen when you have to use them for the 5th on. He is a #3 guy and has to go deeper mmore often. He’s not getting the support many are getting but if he were to go deeper he would get more runs for him.

Yes we did say w/ our pen we can shorten the game, but that was before the injuries started stacking up. Everyone has to deal w/ them but when you lose a big part like Gonzalez it trickles down from there.

By Paladin

August 5, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Paladin I think that the 4th and 5th groups on that list were 4th: Artists, and 5th: Traveling Commercial Salesmen.

Sorry I missed this earlier, Wayne, or I would have replied. I hope I will be allowed to now.

In the shoot-from-the-hip category Artists ranked very high. As for Traveling commercial Salesmen, they came just after Wine Tasters and just ahead of present occupants of the old folks home. Sorry.

:-)

By Chase

August 5, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

I’m FIRST GUESSING!!

WHERE IS MOYLAN?

He hasn’t pitched in 2 days and is our BEST RELIEVER!!!

GET HIM IN

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Steve You think like Mcdowell,that’s why they keep signing washed-up fastball types.It’s almost a prejudice at this point.Dotel hasn’t had a good year since 03 either in quantity or quality.I believe Ascanio could have finished the season with a 3.00 or better era,no way Dotel will give us that.

By BravesDave

August 5, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Where is Peter Moylan? Why Soriano in this spot??? Is Moylan hurt or something??

By woogidy

August 5, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

It’s Soria-nooooooooo, not again.

By woogidy

August 5, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

moylan might close this one, Wick needs a day off.

By Chuck James is solid until the 6th!! (Formerly Steve-O)

August 5, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

We need this game bad….

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

August 5, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Who’d have thought in April that fans would be screaming for Moylan over Soriano in a pressure situation?

By Paladin

August 5, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Bobj Forgive the clique, but u are a day late and a $ short. Have a nice nap?

By Chuck James is solid until the 6th!! (Formerly Steve-O)

August 5, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

Grinch,

I grew up a Braves fan since I can remember thanks to TBS and a Dave Justice rookie card I had. Anyway, my point is I grew up with Glavine too. You took the words out of my mouth and I hold the same feelings as you do.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

This UMP has a really messed up strike zone! One inning its a strike the next its not and it seems to mostly be going against the Braves

By The Truth Hurts

August 5, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

I think James gets hit the 3rd time through the order because he’s no more than a two-pitch pitcher. Fastball and change-up. Change-up and fastball. Glavine was (and is) primarily a two-pitch pitcher as well. But he was always on the black (or a couple inches off if you ask the other team) and always at the knees. James misses up in the zone far too much—thus, the fly-ball pitcher he’s become. And, of course, Glavine was a bit smarter about HOW to pitch. Maybe that’ll come with James. Maybe a curve will come, too.

And while James’ ERA is good for a #3 starter, it’s difficult to quantify the damage he does to the team on his off-days by forcing the bullpen to work as hard as it does on the days he pitches.

By Chop Chop

August 5, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Grinch, Glavine’s cool with me. He left for the Mets, but the Mets haven’t exactly owned the Braves since he got there. The Braves had fallen off by the time he left (after his 0-2, 15.26 ERA in the 2002 NLDS loss to the Giants, of course) and it just didn’t really affect me as much as it would have if he’d left 5 years earlier.

The only great Atlanta player that I’ve ever hated for leaving town was Deion Sanders. He went to the 49ers, a team that just annihilated the Falcons every year, and he shoved it in our faces. He then went on to play for the freakin’ Cowboys, which is, as we all know, a mortal sin.

As for the Braves-Rockies today, could we see extra innings again???? God help us all.

By Chuck James is solid until the 6th!! (Formerly Steve-O)

August 5, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Chris Woodward is more useless than Todd Pratt was. He is in the same league as Pratt, Orr, Reitsma and Kolb.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Corky and Woodcrap…that was a give away inning!

Corky came up big once but he is now 3-65…. Then Woodcrap? Might as wel have skipped that inning all together LOL!

By BravesDave

August 5, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

Some strange choices out of the bullpen today. Soriano and Wickman two days in a row. Wickman in a tie game.

Leadoff man on base…not a good start to the 9th.

By Chuck James is solid until the 6th!! (Formerly Steve-O)

August 5, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

33 bunt hits and you position the defense to play back with a damp infield grass?? Hmm………….

By Chase

August 5, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

WHERE THE HELL IS MOYLAN?

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 5, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

Wow!…it’s Porky pitching to Corky in the ninth!…

By BravesDave

August 5, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

Maybe Moylan is the new desginated extra innings guy…considering we play extra inning games about 3 times a week lately.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

GOOD..Now lets get it DONE in the 9th!!

I still would’ve brought in MOYLAN!

By Chuck James is solid until the 6th!! (Formerly Steve-O)

August 5, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

Walk-Off PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

OK here’s an opportunity to show some clutch hitting.Not to mention win a game we can’t afford to lose.Extra innings everyone ?

By Tyler

August 5, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Willy Taveras would look good in a Braves uniform, huh?

So would Carlos Zambrano, Aaron Rowand, and Eric Byrnes. :-) All FA’s next year.

By Paladin

August 5, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

And now—I’m off to a ladies’ house(the tape is on) for iced tea. Hey, its’ no bodice-rippin-penny-dreadful thing, but when you are old and live in rural America, you do what you can do.

Go Braves!! Go Paladin!!

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 5, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

Maybe Cox is saving Moylan to save the game!…

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

Chip calls a two out hit early in the game clutch hitting.To me clutch is now as in they had the game in their clutches and let it slip away.In that regard this team is almost a text case for lack of clutch play.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

EXTRAS AGIAN…MY GOD!!! What is the deal?

By Chop Chop

August 5, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

And Chipper with a Willie Harris Memorial stolen base attempt. Side retired. Stay tuned for free baseball, everybody!

By BravesDave

August 5, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Why attempt a steal with Teixiera at the plate??

By LVChad

August 5, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

On radio Skip just said that Moylan’s back went out and is unavailable today.

By BravesDave

August 5, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

Once again…no Moylan. What is going on?? I do not like Villarreal in this spot.

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

Four relievers just to get to extra innings.How in the wide,wide world of sports can the pen hold up to this abuse ?

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

Could anyone give me an update on moylan? I heard they said something on the radio, but couldnt hear everything, heard something he was unavailable. Is injuried?

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 5, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

WHERE IS Y’ALL’S NEW BEST FRIEND AND PREFERRED BLOGGER FROM UP NORTH—ANDERS—DID HE FINALLY GET HIS FILL OF SOUTHERN ENLIGHTENMENT?…

Funny that he and Stinky seem to travel together…

By KC

August 5, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

My God man… they really need to win this game.

I’m glad we didn’t give up more than we did for Dotel. I’m really hoping he’ll settle in and start contributing. He hasn’t looked good so far.

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Im just hoping they take 2 out of 3 again, even if it takes 1000 inning. Ill save all my “·$%”·!%$·%·$% after im relax and enjoying a win.

Go tex, jeff or matt………work your magic, bring us closer to division title!!

By Ron

August 5, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Let me guess: In extras, the Rockies will end up scoring 1 run, then in the bottom of THAT inning we tye it, then later on the Rockies score 2 runs and we score 1 that inning to lose!!! Is that how its gonna be!!! Come on Tex, Walk off RIGHT NOW!!!

By beki

August 5, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Chuckie needs a sports psychologist! Smoltz used Llewelyen ( sp.? )a long time ago and it sure helped him and his career.It might help him to eat up innings.

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

We can’t lose this game.

I know its only one game. But we really can’t lose this one.

Where is Carroll at?

By LVChad

August 5, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

Overlord Skip said Moylan’s back went out.

By FairWeatherBraveFanHater

August 5, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

I don’t know what any of you think but the UMP is killing us. I remember at least 3 times we had a 3-0 or 3-1 pitch that was no doubt a ball. Then we end up making an out instead taking a base. This has happened to lead off the 8th and 9th. No telling what would have happened if the lead-off guy got on. Especially w/ Julio pitching. We still ned to hit the ball but w/ the bad luck we’ve had lately, everything matters.

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Here’s an example of how people who should know what they’re seeing are prone to infatuations with big arms.On baseball tonight…the other night,they all agreed that maybe Moylan has better stuff than given credit for.Hell it should be obvious that the ability to work the ball in,out,up and down with good movement and command is hard for hitters to out guess and adjust to.There’s a big hit,it don’t count if Frenchy doesn’t cross the plate,we’ll see.

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

1st and 2nd 1 out. We should win this game. Playoff teams would.

By KC

August 5, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

What was so frustrating last year is that it seemed the Braves found ways to lose.

One aspect of the team would be clicking, while another they floundered in another area. But then when they got something turned around, whatever had been going well, would suddenly go south.

This year, there have been traces of the same. The Bullpen was lights out, but the rotation was suspect. Then the rotation has a fantastic stretch, but the bullpen fails.

Chuck James was going great guns until this trade, but his last 2 starts have been poor.

We’ve got to get most everything clicking at the same time for at least one good stretch this year. We need Chucky to pitch well, and we need Soriano and Dotel to come around.

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

KC dont expect any reliever to do well until this teams start playing like they are supposed. They are living on the catwalk, they dont know what to expect….. or the only thing they are to expect is theyll pitch everyday and that is way too much.

The situation is out of control, bobby cox does not have the control anymore. He does not decides which relieve is he going to use on each game, they do pitch on everygame, all of them, he is just to decide the “bullpen lineup” for every day so they know in which order will they pitch. And things wont get any easier as mets and phillies have even higher OBP than the last 4 teams we have met but the rockies i think. Im not sure but thing is that phillies and muts are loaded and we are going there with tired arms. Guess the only positive things is that theirs are as much tired as ours.

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Big win. Huge. Monumental win.

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

That’ll get er done!!way to go Escobar!!

By Chop Chop

August 5, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Francoeur with a great AB and Yunel with a game-winning hit. That’ll make the bullpen feel a little better after an extra-inning game, right?

By KC

August 5, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

NON-TITLE TEAMS DON’T WIN GAMES LIKE THIS.

Do they Carroll?

By Ron

August 5, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

That a boy Escobar!!! Im glad we finished it when we did!!! Escobar IS a CLUTCH player!!! Very Rare for a Rookie!!!

By JasonInMaine

August 5, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

Esco!!!!

By Bob, Journalist

August 5, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

That was good!

By beki

August 5, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

Braves win! Braves win! Braves win! Braves win with an Escobar hit! YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!

By KC

August 5, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Overlord: If… IF the Braves can get the 5th starter situation taken care of, I think the bullpen will slowly start to catch their breath. I’ve got my fingers crossed on Cormier, but I’m certainly not holding my breath.

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

thanks chad Does that means he will be out for a few days or what?

YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Escobar !!!!!!!!!!!

Hope this is not the only game he does things as well or better than edgar……

Hey muts fans, Dont drop the game tonight or it will 3.5 games……. LESS GROUND TO PICK UP.

See how fast things can change no chop zone??????

See you in NY.

By KC

August 5, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

That God we only had to go one extra inning tonight!!!

By BravesDave

August 5, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

Big win. Great at-bat by Francoeur. Big hit by Escobar. Great job by the bullpen, outside of Dotel.

I hope Moylan is OK.

Let’s see the Phils finish a nice loss to the Brewers and pull hard for Marquis tonight.

I really hoped for a sweep, but we’ll take two out of three. How about a sweep in NYC? Oliver Perez can’t beat the Braves again, can he? Plus, Brian Lawrence????

By TexasBrave

August 5, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

As happy as I am to see that Escobar came up with the game winning hit, I am even more happy for Oscar getting the win, the man deserves it. I don’t think he gets enough props for the job he has done this year.

Way to go Braves!!!! Now lets focus on beating up those Mets.

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

I know we all are witnesses to the tired bullpen, but….. has anyone heard something straight up from cox or roger? Have they said something about any of the relievers been very tired or something?

By Colin

August 5, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

Lets GO CUBBIES

By KC

August 5, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

THANK GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That Escobar’s here to save us from 2-3 weeks of Chris Woodward starting at SS!!!!!!

By The Grinch

August 5, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

Yunel is the man. Glad we kept him. Paladin, don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.

By TexasBrave

August 5, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

Amen to that brother KC!!!!

Man we will not be able to count on any Pinch Hitters until Edgar gets back or the Sept. call ups. That’s a lot of games. I would almost want to leave in the pitchers to hit for themselves.

By KC

August 5, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Carlyle vs. Perez… I’m hoping to win on Tuesday, but I’m not betting any money on it.

With Smoltz and Hudson going in game 2 and 3 though… our chances of taking 2 of 3 in this series are definitely better than average.

It would be awfully sweet if the Mets dropped this one tonight.

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Great game. Chuck James doesn’t suprise me. I know people think I am a Chuck hater, but the guy is almost automatic to struggle the third time in the order. He is not a solid #3 starter. He is a solid #4 starter. He is a bullpen killer. Other than that, great win going into New York.

I actually worry about the Phillies series more.

James, Cormier and Carlyle???

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

KC thats a fact, 5th spot on rotation is doing so much damage…… I cant recall something like this, how a single whole on any professional team can do so much damage…….. THIS IS JUST AMAIZING. Its like a a person with a completely healthy body and some cancer cells growing on the liver or stomach and suddenly the person goes down the drain. Everything else is pretty covered, cant thing of any other thing that can be done to get this team to champioship caliber.

I know we still have woodward and that thorman is not Steve Garvey nor mark grace, but we still have good bats coming from bench….. escobar, matt or willie depending on lineup, corky we still can say too much about him, but 2 of 4 of the guys available to pinch hit every game are way above average, so i would say our bench is not exactly weak, not the strongest but lets face it, how many pinch hitters does this team with such a strong lineup would be needing on a regular game? not more than 2 if the starting pitching gets the job done and goes at least into late 6th or early 7th inning.

At least we are looking into a day off. We will go to NY after winning 4 of 6, thats not bad. Bullpen is tired physically but at least there is a good streak going on. Game one is key (no need to be genius to know that).

Im sure winning 2 out of 3 will be a great achievement, will bring us to 2.5 and will send loud message to muts.

Key right now and from now on (it has been like that almost all season) 5th spot…… once that is fixed order will come back to universe.

Lets pray Cormier brings something better than last time.

If not……………bobby………..give the chance to villarreal and leave devine here when renty gets back.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 5, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

Pitching!…

By D-Cider

August 5, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

Great win today with only a minimal amount of cursing. always a good thing….

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

Phillies score 5 in the 9th to tie the game…….

By GB

August 5, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

I just get so down to see the sight of either Thorman or Woodward on the playing field. Surely we must have somebody…A-N-Y-B-O-D-Y from VA or MS who can produce off the bench. I was sorry to see them both make appearences today…Thank God they didn’t screw it up!!!!!!

By Anders

August 5, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

SJA Glad to see you miss me. 85 and sunny with no humidity up here in NY. Sorry but I had other things to do besides sit inside and watch the Bravos. I saw the wrap up though. Good job over the last two days. Re-read my Blogs and you’ll see that I’ve been consistent even through black Friday last week that this race is far from over.

P.S. Why do you keep asking your friends about me if you hate me so much?

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

Who knows ? that hit by Escobar may be the pebble that changes the course of the boulder….clutch begets clutch ?…let’s hope so.

By Savannah Guy

August 5, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

The Daily Buzz (Fly on Wall Report No. 014)

With Brian McCann taking a day off, the sleuth Fly reporter took the opportunity to visit with him in the dugout. They hit it off quite well. In fact, Brain even told an old tale from the “Old Sod”, involving three Irish families named McCann, McCloud and McJagger. The story involved a property dispute between neighbors of the McCann family, who resided near a Lee between the towns of Blarney and Macroom. Kind of an Irish Hatfield and McCoy tale. Here’s an excerpt:

(Young Brian McCann’s story goes on for a long time, per Irish tradition he says. Fly reporter picks it up near the end)

Young McCann: So anyway Fly, this fella McJagger made some of the best fiddles in the Province of Munster. They were known for their resonance because he built them out of old Yew trees that grew on the border of his property. Trouble was, his neighbor, a trouble maker named McCloud kept trespassing, climbing McJaggers Yew trees and breaking limbs. This angered McJagger to no end, so one day he asked my great, great, great granddad to intervene. Here’s what transpired long ago on a fine Sunday morning in Old Ireland:

Ol’ McCann: Top o’ tha mornin’ to ya, Lad. Ye look of a prodigal son. Ye gotta jigsaw puzzle in yer head or eyr ye jest waitin’ for a factory girl?

McJagger: Sittin’, thinkin’, drinkin’, sinkin’, wondrin’…

Ol’ McCann:…what ye’ll do when yer through tonight?

McJagger: Awww, aye suppose. Wouldn’t know it were a Sunday tho, tha way my pot-stirrin neighbor is up to his stray cat shenanigans. It’s gettin’ up mee arse.

Ol’ McCann: Aye? So, good neigbor o’ myne, what seems ta be trublin’ ye this fine mornin? Naybors ye say?

McJagger: Aye. That neighbor McCloud keeps tinkerin in me old Yew trees and breaken ‘em up. A fine mess he is too. He runs off before eye can catch’im. I got no sypathy for that devil. He’s no salt o’ the earth.

Ol’ McCann: Let’s have a look. Oh, o’er there…is that him o’er yon in yer tree now?

McJagger: My word…aye. Why, I have him now…caught in the act he is. Now he’s gonna’ be under my thumb…

(like a jumpin’ jack flash and a cross-fire hurricane, McJagger ran like a wild man, tongue hanging out and screaming all the way to the tree where McCloud was perched like a weasel in a tree.)

McJagger: Caught ye this time ye ol’ midnight rambler. Now what ere ya sayin’ about this? Can’t you get no satifaction on yer own propertee?

McCloud: Well siree, I was jest getting’ meself a better look around. I like to monitor the Lee. See who’s who.

McJagger: On my property no less? Since I’m a street fightin’ man I oughta give ye a big cut and let it bleed.

McCloud: (silence)

McJagger: (loudly) Hey, McCloud…Get Off Of My Yew!

Fly: Sorry folks, but just then, before the story ended, young Brian jumped up and ran onto to the field to congratulate young Yunel for knocking in that winning run. I guess he’ll finish the story later. I think Brian said something about a song being written about this event many years later. Oh well, I’m hungry for a beggar’s banquet. Where’s Wicky?

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

D-Cider——-Damn strait !!!

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 5, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

Anders—your mistake to assume that I have friends…

By Salty

August 5, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

Bob, J

Your 2:54…very true words…current state less than desirable. Equally agree on SJA.

By Anders

August 5, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this

SJA - Pitching Interesting thought. There’s been a certain Northern fella blogging here this last week while getting Tex was a no brainer and would help, unless the bullpen produces it wouldn’t be enough. And he didn’t think Dotel was as automatic as the Braves fans on this blog said. You may recall he was compared to Flash Gordon and throws straight which tends to lend itself to the long ball. Again, he’s not bad, just not automatic.

By Alex

August 5, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this

Finally, the extra inning jinx is over for now!

Imagine if the Braves had won the last 3 extra inning games they lost! They’s be half a game out right now!!!

They need to win the series agains the NY MUTS.

Let’s hope the Cubs help out tonight. I wish Benedict Glavine does not win the 300th game of his career, let him struggle some more. Karma is a biatch Tommy boy, that’s what you get for leaving the ATL for the Muts and the big money contract, union man!

By Bob

August 5, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

Great win today guys. Damn Phillies just scored 5 in top of 9th. Cordero could not get anyone out. Now in the 10th.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 5, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

esteemed ugandan journalist—beware of the wolf in sheep’s clothing…

By Chop Chop

August 5, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy, I prefer the joke e-mail version of that joke. You know the one I’m talking about. The one with MacLeod, the Scotsman who likes sheep a little too much.

“Hey MacLeod, get off of my ewe.”

I saw that one a few years ago and laughed.

By Ron Roberts

August 5, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this

Calm down, KC… or else we’ll have to dredge up the lofty predictions you made on our beloved Braves most of last season, just to humble ya back down to earth, friend

I’m glad Joe Simpson kept bringing up Octavio Dotel’s inability to hit Corky Miller’s target(s) the inning he pitched. It was b-a-d way-off, many times, and he was fortunate to only give up a solidary run. Something ain’t right w/that guy or we’d be on cruise control.

I’m glad we didn’t need Moylan today. We rested him, I think, with the thought that if Carlyle doesn’t match Oliver Perez Tuesday, he’s our long-relief guy.

Hats off, too, to Tayler Yates. Fantastic inning of relief by the fryin’ Hawaiian. Is it just me, or does he always look either sunburned or about to have a heat stroke?

Also nice to get a win w/out Renteria and Andruw Jones in the lineup. Makes getting Teixeira all the more an important pickup, I’d say.

Pitching matchups for the NYM series look favorable for us, at least 2 nights out of 3, and Carlyle’s been no slouch, either. The flip-side of that is Lance Cormier and Chuck James both starting games in homer-friendly Citizens Bank Ballpark in Filth-adelphia.

Yikes.

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

Yeah, bring on the METS huh??? Does this upcoming series have a make or break feel for you braves fans???? We know if the METS dont even win 1 game, they will still be in 1st. That has got to be on the braves mind. They have to be praying that when the last head to head matchup begins, they are no more than 3 games out so they can have a 1 game playoff. Other than that I expect this series to possibly be better than some upcoming OCT. games. Finally a rivaly worht watching again!!! Lets go Hawks, and take the braves with you!!!

By ncscoots

August 5, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Actually, some posters here have long spoken of Chuck’s two-pitch arsenal and truncated delivery (maybe Simpson reads the blog!). Shockingly, I did see him throw two curves for strikes today. I think. I might have still been in shock after the first one, and the second might have just been an echo.

Anyway, maybe his mechanics (a big part of his deception) prevent him from throwing a ML-quality breaking ball, I don’t know. But you folks are right, hitters are just too comfortable after seeing him twice. Might as well get used to it, at least this year, and hope the other starters begin piling up innings.

Maybe he becomes the centerpiece of a pitching trade in the offseason.

By Bob, Journalist

August 5, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

KC, I had typed the identical words for Carroll … without the bold caps but decided to let it rest. I still say that Bobby lost that game but it took a lot of misfortune and they showed me a lot of class today.

As I said earlier, Matt, Yunel, Kelly and Willie are special … they all are … Jeff may be growing up as a hitter.

Carroll can turn a phrase with the best and while many share her view, I was surprised by her so saying.

I think Dotel will be okay if he doesn’t wear out his welcome before he gets s chance to adjust … throwing too many strikes if you ask me.

The Box Score is interesting … with Andruw on the bench, we’ve won two straight and of the starting eight position players, only one is hitting under .300 … Tex.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 5, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

Anders—yet another mistake—assuming every comment posted on this blog requires a reply from you…

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

Dam, the Brew crew has a little Cubbie in them. (No lead is safe) We helped the Cubbies at the beginning week by beating the Brewers. This week we try to help the brewers. Bottom line, you just gotta keep winning!!!

LETS GO METS!!

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this

Tuesday night is a big game for the Braves. It would be sure nice to beat Oliver Perez for the first time this year. Haven’t seen him in about 2 months. Think of the Braves confidence if they beat Oliver Perez and have Smoltz and Hudson going the next two games.

By Kentavo

August 5, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this

Overlord, they were alluding to Bobby’s comments on TV today saying that the bullpen is not tired, they’re just missing their spots. Joe Simpson didn’t buy it, saying they’re missing they’re spots becuase they’re overworked. I agree, Cox is in denial again. I could stomach Cox a bit more if he would just tell the truth.

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

McCann Means Mac-Wolf cub or Mr Wolf cub.That explains his Midnight ramblin.

By Anders

August 5, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

SJA - I can’t take this back and forth. I write and you tell me to go away. I don’t write and you’re looking for me. Please stop playing with my heart.

By James P

August 5, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

Braves Win!! I was good to see both Soriano and Wickman pitch well today. We need to have some consistence in the 7th thru 9th from the bullpen. Getting those going will help. Has anybody heard about Moylan yet? How long is Edgar going to be out?

True fan in Palm Harbor, Florida

By fasteddie

August 5, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this

Kudos to Joe Simpson for his refusing to comment on Barry Bonds’ reaching 755 HRs. He also is very intuitive in his analysis of pitchers. Now if we can get Chip to do a bit more homework on his facts. He has a pleasant delivery, but makes far too many mistakes.

By nfieldr

August 5, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

KC said: NON-TITLE TEAMS DON’T WIN GAMES LIKE THIS.

Well, title teams do it more than twice in nine games…

By Paladin

August 5, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

MetroMan You are becoming almost as omnipresent as Anders.

Grinch Didn’t you mean “Don’t do anything I can’t do.” :-)

By Salty

August 5, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

Scoots

Watching James’ delivery, it seemed his motion was (somewhat) fluid on a change, but on the fastball, he cocks…there’s a slight pause in his delivery. Now, whether a batter can react to that, I don’t know…I probably (ok, certainly) couldn’t.

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

Metropolitan Man

Your team better not lose that game on Tuesday. I smell a sweep if that happens……

By fasteddie

August 5, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

In earlier post I neglected to welcome DOB back into the fray. The others try hard, but DOB is in a class by himself when it comes to running a blog. And he works much harder at getting info out to us than anyone else on any site I have frequented.

By ncscoots

August 5, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

Perez is the only Mets pitcher to defeat the Braves this year, so I’ll go out on the jinx limb and predict that sucker gets Whitesnaked. Or bubblegummed, with a tip-of-the-hat to TennPaul.

And Metro, I doubt the Mets will take much solace about being in first if they get swept, re your 5:32. That would produce instant rest-of-the-season angst.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this

Thats okay about the Phillies/Brewers game!

I hope they HAVE TO PLAY 16 innings!!!!!!!!!!!

The METS too for that matter!

Let some other teams wear themselves out for a change!

By Savannah Guy

August 5, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop: Actually I haven’t seen that. Perhaps I too would have liked your version better…but I suppose mine was more fun to write than for you to read. My concept came from a punchline I heard many moons ago…and for some sick reason, it stayed in my head along with piles of other useless information. Just rolling stones around the lot…

By brewdawg

August 5, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

Metro Man,

Regarding an earlier post about how Tom Glavine should be a local hero… totally agreed. People always talk about how the Braves only won one world title in their run of 14 straight division titles. Well, guess what folks? Without the Glavinator, it would very likely be ZERO world titles in 14 years. I’ll never forget that, and there are a lot of other folks out there who shouldn’t either.

By Anders

August 5, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

* Paladin* - Your boys answered the bell the last two days -Kudos. I don’t agree with Metro Man - The Mets can’t be swept by the Braves if they lose tonight. No way giving back 5 games in a week can be viewed as OK. I’m very interrested to see how the Mets do tonight. Big game on a National stage. Glavine better answer the bell or we’re sending him back to Atlanta for Micheal Vick!

By Alex

August 5, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

No doubt the pressure is on the Braves, to win the series at Shea. MetroMan, like you pointed out, even if the Braves sweep the Muts, they will not be in first place, so the pressure is all on the Braves to make up some groud in the standings by taking 2 out of 3 from NY again, as they have done all year.

If the Braves can take 2 out of 3 in both series against the Muts and Phillies, I would consider this upcoming roadtrip a huge success.

They can’t win the division the next 6 games, but they can surely put themselves in a great position to win it, or to fall out of contention, depends on what happens.

Yet, still 7 more weeks of baseball left. Anything can happpen.

By FairWeatherBraveFanHater

August 5, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

Bob, you mentioned that out of the 8 position players only Tex isn’t hitting .300. Before the game today if you use his stats from Texas I believe he was sitting at .299. Pretty close to having all 8 over.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 5, 2007 6:03 PM | Link to this

Anders—you surprise me…seems you’re beginning to veer away from your initial excuse for coming to this blog, which was, “I’m just here for a different perspective from what I get on a Mets blog”…“just here to talk baseball”…

You run along now, and chat up your new pals here on the blog…you uneducated piece of New York trash…

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 6:03 PM | Link to this

Efrim, Paladin: This is going to be great. Actually this series will determine if I have a good weekend or a bad one. You guys are so geeked up its hard not to get pumped up. I just dont want you guys crying about calls, or anything else for that matter. You guys are facing a makeshift METS team that will show you why its so hard to gain ground on a few vets and some misfits put together playing their butts off for Willie!!!

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

nfieldr——no question these guys have alot of work ahead before they prove to be a clutch,championship type team.You’ve got to win most of these things,not just once in awhile.

By Eric from MO

August 5, 2007 6:09 PM | Link to this

Good thing tommorrow is an off day. Our bullpin can get some rest before the Mets series. Hopefully Caryle is fine after having to leave early his last start.

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 6:11 PM | Link to this

Anders, getting swept is never ok, but to sweep a team and then have to look up to them in the standings is a killer. We rarely, if ever, got to sweep the braves during the “14”. If we did and still had to look up at them in the standings, well the good feeling from the sweep would only last a minute. A fan always want his team to bury the rivals. But one day that rival comes back and makes you pay for the big “14”. I’m just glad your team is clicking so there is no excuses. I like the team Willie has to chose from and know they ARE competitive even without key pieces. Gotta love a squad like that.

By Chop Chop

August 5, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy, I’m just messing with ya. I’m sure the folks here enjoyed it. You worked in the Jagger stuff well (liked the Beggars’ Banquet/Wickman reference, although something tells me that Wicky would never, EVER have to beg for a meal…he’d just point to his gut and say “Gimme!).

Most importantly, that punchline is an all-time classic to corny fools like me. Keep on doing what you do, dude.

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

Metropolitan Man

I don’t want to hear about injuries or who is out on that field this week. Win the games. We won’t complain about Edgar, you won’t complain about Carlos Beltran.

Speaking of which, why does that guy only play if everything is right? Beltran plays through absolutely nothing. He is a mentally weak player. Not worth 18 million a year.

Can’t wait to hear Joe and Evan cry about the Braves whooping the Mets a* this week.

By Bob

August 5, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

Brewers imploded big time. Glad we are not facing Phillies next as they will be sky high with that comeback.

Anders, I’ll take that trade for Tommy. At least he could eat some innings for us which is more than #3-#5 seem to be able to do. But make sure all the dogs in Queens are locked up before the transaction is made.

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this

This next series is without a doubt the biggest of the season to date.Time to step it up or hang it up…..go Bravos.

By Anders

August 5, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this

SJA - I’ll take that as a no. I’ll watch for you on Cops. Now, back to baseball with the more reasonable folks on this blog.

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

Speaking of which, why does that guy only play if everything is right? Beltran plays through absolutely nothing. He is a mentally weak player. Not worth 18 million a year.

Efrim: I thought you were talking about Chumper.

By Anders

August 5, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

Metroman _ I’m a Mets fan dude. But let’s be real. No way you can get swept by the team right behind you and say it’s OK. That’s all I’m saying. I don’t expect it to happen, but if it did realistically we’d have a hell of a dog fight on our hands.

By ATLslimG

August 5, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this

Bobby will kill our season u watch. Not walking Helton when it was 5-4, are u kiddin. Make someone else beat u. Good trade for Tex, Dotel, and the lefty.

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this

Metropolitan Man,

You know he is a weak player. Always complaining about something. Milledge has fire. In my mind, they are better with Lastings in the lineup. So it looks like you have all of your guns for this week’s showdown.

Man, I wonder where that team would be without Feliciano, Perez and Maine. 10 Back of the Bravos.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 5, 2007 6:30 PM | Link to this

Two out of three ? Hell , I want to sweep the muts and beat the crap out of them in the process. But , we shall see if this team has the sand to do it. Few understand why the Braves have struggled the last few years and the answer is : Verlander , Peavy , Webb , Lester , Beckett , Hamels and now Hughes , Lincecum , Miller , Hernandez and Young. It’s the Braves in ability to scout , draft and develop great young hard throwing arms and then keep them. We had Wainwright , Marquis and traded them. Davies , Startup , Jones , Harrison and Feliz are five more young arms gone. Smoltz and Hudson came from Detroit and Oakland respectively. When will John Schuerholz ever learn that you cannot win championships without dominant pitching. Look around the rest of the MLB people , many other organizations are developing great young pitching , what the hell are the Braves doing in that department ?

By Bravesfanin MetsLand

August 5, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

Anyoen else get the feeling that over the next 2 weeks Escobar is going to play Edgar out of Atlanta for next year? I Was the first one praying that Edgar didn’t get traded at the deadline (especially for Garland. I mean, did you see him pitch against the Yankees the oteher day? I’d rather have Judy Garland on my team. At least she used to be able to sing) But with a new season and Tex in the line up from teh beginning, I think we’ll be fine with Escobar.

Big series coming up as you all know. I personally think our pitching is set up a bit better than the Mets. Let’s win the first one and make them look down the barrel of Smoltz/Hudson. Feel the noose tighten Mets fans.

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

Anders, you my friend are the 1st METS fan on this blog (no offense NCZ but you can get a lil wild) who knows how to handle a hostile braves crowd.

I’ll tell you this, its the loyal braves that make this blog great. Its the fairweathers that makes it hard to talk baseball becasue they cant handle a loss(like they contributed to a win). So bravo fans, make way becasue what made you smile today will make you cry Tue, Wed, and Thur.

BRING ON THE braves!!!!!

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this

Efrim, adding a healthy Beltran to Millz is a great addition. That just shows you how the METS dont skip a beat when the injuries hit. You can say as a collective bunch they win and lose together. No player is ever singled out.

Now where would the braves be without Escobar and Harris, becasue they are better than some of the guys the braves broke camp with!!!! Wheres Wilson, Davies, and those other guys you were hoping would have triple crown seasons????

By FairWeatherBraveFanHater

August 5, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

I keep hearing the pressure is on Atlanta. Obviously it is, but if you don’t think it is on the Mets too you are very much mistaken. It is actually on both teams. The Braves need to win to cut into this lead and the Mets need to win to stay ahead. In fact if the Mets lose even 2 of 3 to us then they will be in a bad position. They will have it in there heads that they can’t beat us head to head…and that is big. We’ve already won 6 of 9 and if we make it 8 of 12 the Mets will pack it in.

So yes, we are behind 4 and probably 3.5 going into tuesday, but the Muts are feeling it just as much as we are.

go Cubs(tonight)

GO BRAVES

By Lew

August 5, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

MetroDude-Make or break feel? Hardly. More like a break the Mets feel.

By TexasBrave

August 5, 2007 6:46 PM | Link to this

Bravesfanin MetsLand - I agree with you. If Escobar keeps up what he is doing I think it would provide a few good options for JS. Trading Edgar is one, but I would just hate to loose his stick. But we would probably pick up a good starting pitcher for him.

I still like the idea of keeping Edgar at short, put Escobar at 2nd, and put Kelly either in Left or Center. If Kelly is in Center then you can keep the platoon of Willie and Diaz in Left provided both remain Braves.

By FairWeatherBraveFanHater

August 5, 2007 6:46 PM | Link to this

Metro0Man You definitely don’t know your baseball if you don’t think Chipper plays through pain. He might be out too much but that is only when there is no way he can play. He plays through pain almost every day. He is playing now w/ a blue thumb. It is pretty hard to swing the bat w/ a bruised thumb, but he does it. I think he’s hurt too much, but most of the time he plays through it. I don’t even know why we answer your idiotic comments.

By Anders

August 5, 2007 6:48 PM | Link to this

FairW I agree there’s some pressure on the Mets too. Not as much at this point for obvious reasons. The Mets winning tonight will go a long way for them. Plus the Mets have a much easier last 10 to 14 games this season than the Braves - so the Braves need to make hay sooner.

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

Hang tough Lew, the braves will shorten your season to follow them after this week alone. You might be able to take on 1 of them (Phils),but the METS have got to get you out of their heads. Like you guys said 6 out of 9 can mess with you. So taking this series is a Mental thing for the METS and a make or break for the braves. Thats right Lew, make or break!!!!

By Eric from MO

August 5, 2007 6:51 PM | Link to this

BrewDawg”Without the Glavinator, it would very likely be ZERO world titles in 14 years.” It may also of been more without Glavine. For most of his postseason games he was horrible. Now I dont hate him like some Fans do. Once he retires I will like him again. I just cant root for a Met.

Metropolitan Man” Speaking of which, why does that guy only play if everything is right? Beltran plays through absolutely nothing. He is a mentally weak player. Not worth 18 million a year.

Efrim: I thought you were talking about Chumper.

Last I checked Chipper only makes 11 million a year. Good job on doing your homework.

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this

FairWeatherBraveFanHater: You cant be serious. Have you been watching THIS season and you came up with that conclusion. I dont think many braves fans will agree with you. So I guess the Smoltz/Chumper thing didnt happen huh??? Heck it happened this year because Smolzt is on his way out and wanted Chumper to know he needs to stop that crap and be a leader. He lead the pitchers by example while Chumper shows you how to get over on management.

FairWeatherBraveFanHater: I wont do the research for you just yet, but check and see how many games your boy Chumper averages for lets say the past 5 years and see why you must be a “14” rider and not really a braves fan. My bad, the fairweather title said it all.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 5, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this

Just another day on the MIB BLOG…Metsucker…Infested…B**log…

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this

Eric from MO: You understood the sentiment of my post. Besides whats 7 million among millionaires . Dont be so anal man!!!

By David O'Brien

August 5, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this

Andruw assured me after the game that he will play Tuesday.

By Mets fan

August 5, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this

i think it’s funny how braves fans think mark teixeira will be enough to stop the mets. your bullpen still sucks (2 grand slams in a week, who does that?) and will keep your club a safe distance away from the clearly superior mets, chipper’s not going to stay healthy (a thumb injury? what a wuss), your starting pitching after hudson and smoltz is a joke, andruw is the most overrated centerfielder of all time (go beltran), and you haven’t gone passed the first round of the playoffs in six years.

the mets will stay in first and win the world series and the braves will finish third behind the phils.

stupid braves fans.

By Jared

August 5, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

Metrosexual Man, get real.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 5, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

Good for you O’Brien…

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

Have a good one,talk to you loyalist later on!!!!

By Bob, Journalist

August 5, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

Hoss is something else … “something he can’t identify yet that’s making him swing late on fastballs and early on off-speed pitches” … Chipper, it’s probably the pitcher.

Until you figure it out, we’ll take 3 for 5 with a walk.

I wasn’t knocking Tex … he plays a good first base. Besides, Yunel, Matt, Kelly and Willie can carry him … but he’ll need to pick up the slack when Andruw comes back!

By Colin

August 5, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this

Lets go Cubbies and Marquis

By BravesDave

August 5, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

That was some unbelievable, and disheartening, win by the Phillies today. I shut it down at 6-1 in the bottom of the 8th. The Phils did it without Utley, Victorino, and Bourn. Big win for them…I hope it doesn’t get them on a roll.

Also, the Brewers are in some serious trouble. That was a major bullpen blowup (reminiscent of a team in Atlanta). Maybe the Cubs will get a little extra push tonight after watching the Brewers swallow that one.

Let’s take 3 from the Mets.

By AthensBrave

August 5, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

What is up with all the Met trash on the blog right now? Get your own…

LETS GO CUBBIES!!!!!!

By Paladin

August 5, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

I’m off to bed and I hope that I can do that tonight without adverse comment. The Braves have already played( and won!!) and I don’t watch Muts and Phoolies games for the same reason that I don’t watch Swamp lizard and U-tee-hee games. They bore me. C u in the AM.

By Ron

August 5, 2007 7:40 PM | Link to this

Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion) To be Fair to JS and the Scouts, Some of the Names you mentioned WERE First Round Picks!!! And MOST were before the Braves had a chance to pick!!! If We sucked for a few years THEN we could get some of those Hard Throwers!!! And Hughes was drafted by the Yankees with the 20th pick, so Even the Braves had no chance to get him!!! Your A Little bit too hard on JS!!!

By TexasBrave

August 5, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

DOB - Did you ask Andruw if he was sure he didn’t need another day off? Just kidding, sort of! We really only missed Andruw only once today (I didn’t get to watch yesterday’s game) when Willie couldn’t catch up to the double in the hole. We most definitely didn’t miss his bat.

Provided his elbow is 100% (I can’t imagine it is after only 3 days rest) perhaps the couple of games off is just what Andruw needs to refocus himself and headed in the right direction the last couple of months and into the playoffs.

By Braveheart

August 5, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

BRAVES WIN! MAGIC NUMBER IS 56!

Since the start of the 2005 season, the Braves are 228-208. In the starts of Hudson and Smoltz, the Braves are 109-66. When they don’t start, the Braves are 119-142. Add in Chuck James, the Braves are 132-83 with those guys and 96-125 without. Add in Sosa, Hampton, Buddy, and the Braves are 165-110 with them and 63-98 without those six starters. It’s the pitching. But you all already knew that.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 5, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

Chase, I think the reason we didn’t see Moylan or Mahay for that matter is because Bobby wanted to give them the most rest possible before the Mets series. Fortunately for Cox he was able to do that. Both Moylan and Mahay will be huge assets in that Mets series.

Very good win today and Escobar has done pretty good so far. I think the more Escobar shows he is ready for The Show the more likley it is that Renteria will be traded this winter.

How about Frenchy? This kid has turned a corner. I never doubted he would do it and that is why I defended him so stringently on this blog during the winter. So many people kept saying last season that he was arrogant and didn’t want to listen to instruction. That was not true. It is harder during the season to make the necessary adjustments to make one an all around better hitter. Hitters make adjustments all the time during the season but the one Frenchy had to make can’t be done. I think that is also the reason Thorman is still on the team. I think the Braves believe that if he goes into the winter and makes the necessary adjustments that he could be the hitter next season they envisioned. I would not be surprised to see him play in the Arizona Fall League or the Braves encourage him to play some winter ball somewhere.

By LT (double A blogger)

August 5, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

The Mets can’t beat the Braves and they know it.

Last year was a complete aberration and the Mets will prove it once again that they are losers. New Yorkers flabby, pizza skinned, pale, loud mouths with bad accents.

They’ve a few good young players but by in large their team will die of old age before too long.

The Met man and his lackeys can dust off their Yankee caps at the end of this month.

By David O'Brien

August 5, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave, I was thinking the same thing as I wrote that sentence about Andruw saying he’s playing Tuesday….

But he does tend to have a dramatic homer or two against the Mets, and he seems pretty geeked up about this whole trip.

They’re all pumped up for this trip. That’s why today’s win was a little more important than some others recently. An off day tomorrow, wouldn’t have wanted to go into it with yet another extra-innings loss. Amazing how many extra-innings games they’ve played recently. That was their seventh in 18 days, and they lost five of the other six.

By David O'Brien

August 5, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

John Doe playing tonight at Smith’s Olde Bar. I’ll be there, eating some Fox Brothers BBQ.

By chris from md

August 5, 2007 7:54 PM | Link to this

DOB,

This may be a stupid question but is it possible that the Braves will activate Franco if he is unclaimed? I read that they will go back to 12 pitchers on Tuesday.

Thanks!

Chris from MD

By Yars

August 5, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

I’m not worried about the Phillies. When we play them next weekend, I expect us to win 2 out of 3. Hell, let’s sweep them. We already did once this season. Teams I’m keeping a close eye on are the D’backs, Dodgers, Padres, Cubs, & Mets. I didn’t realize the D’backs are a good team. The Cubs are lucky right now because the Brewers are playing bad. The NL Wildcard ain’t coming out of the NL Central that’s for sure. As for the Dodgers & Padres, I think one of the 2 will make the playoffs but barely. It’s just good to know we have a great chance of staying in contention of the NL Wildcard in case the Mets slowly but surely win the NL East. It doesn’t matter to me whether the Braves win the East or win the Wildcard. As long as we make the playoffs.

By David O'Brien

August 5, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this

Dylan, just saw your early post about Once. Great movie, great soundtrack. He also did an album with her under the group name “The Swell Season,” that’s got a lot of the same stuff on it, came out a year or two earlier.

By Tomahawkin' Again

August 5, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

I was just trying to see what was up with some of the Mut fan blogs in the NY papers and elsewhere on the net and I’ll tell you something, be proud Braves Nation of what us denizens do on this blog. There wasn’t a single comment on any of the last 4 postings by the Muts beat writer in Newsday, the Post had 4 comments on their blog. DOB, you the man and Braves Nation, you the fans. Screw Glavine the traitor, go Cubbies and get ready Gotham, we’re here.

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

Bravesfan in Muttsland No disrespect for Edgar,he is as good as we could have hoped.If Yunel and Brandon Jones can hold their own you have to look at adding quality starters in the off season.I’d sooner believe Dorathy will put own the red slippers and pitch 200 innings as Hampton.

By David O'Brien

August 5, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Chris, the plan is to have Julio play in minors this month and come back when rosters are expanded. Don’t see why they’d change that and activate him now. Think we’ll see Devine go down and another middle infielder come up.

By Marty

August 5, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

It’s funny to hear Mets fans talk badly about our bullpen…Take a look at your own, sport. I know that when the game is on the line, the person I would most want to have in the game is Scott Schoeneweis or one of your other many 5.00+ ERA wonders.

By Braveheart

August 5, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Just looked up Steve Avery’s stats for the 1991 and 1992 seasons, where everyone thought he was a phenom (and he was). Avery had an ERA+ in those years of 116 & 114. In the last two seasons, Chuck James has had an ERA+ of 116 & 115.

The problem is Avery was able to average over 6 innings a start. James can’t even come close to 6 innings a start.

James was also 24, 25 yo whereas Avery was 21, 22 yo hence the phenom talk.

BUT maybe all those innings and pitches for such a young pitcher combined with that Leo long toss routine took its toll on such an outstanding young arm in Avery.

Just throwing that out there that James in his first two seasons has provided as much quality as Steve Avery did - he just ain’t providing the quantity that Steve Avery did.

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

Tommy goes for 300 right now on ESPN.I don’t like the way he ragged management and left for the extra 5 million either.He was as much a Brave as any and the heart of the team in the 90s though.One day he’ll go into the Hall as one of us,I’m watching and pulling for him…with just a touch of resentment.

By Yars

August 5, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

DOB……..The Doors Ray Manzarek produced one of X albums. I enjoyed John Doe in Road House. A film that has turned into a cult classic.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

If the MUTS lose tonight I will be satisfied with winning 2 outta 3 in NY…We’d only be 2.5 out with 50 to play and would have gained 3 games in 4 days! and 8-4 agianst the MUTS…..

that would have to be in their heads…

If I were a Muts fan I’d be praying to win that first game because if they don’t they could be looking at getting swept

By jimmy msith, ugandan journalist

August 5, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

listened to the game on radio yesterday and cubby was doing the game. got to see the game on tv today and there’s cubby. turned on the after the game report on radio and cubby again! this is painful. too much cubby. where are pete and skip? why so much cubby?

and now, perspective … 5 of the last 7. instead of gloom and doom there is optimism. hope carroll rogers is feeling better about the team today. could have been some bad cheese.

there is a wicky chaw on e-bay. somebody on the grounds crew probably. or perhaps a certain journalist looking to make an extra buck.

now, escobar now seems to be the best candidate for a candy bar endorsement. nuts? or no nuts? game winning nuts. can say that on the blog? oh, yeah, can say anything on the blog now. stinky is back.

By KC

August 5, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist: Sorry, didn’t see your post. Great minds think alike. =)

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

Chase

If I were a Muts fan I’d be praying to win that first game because if they don’t they could be looking at getting swept

I agree. It will show a lot about the Braves in my mind. If they go in there and put 5 runs on Oliver Perez and win, that would definetly energize them.

By TexasBrave

August 5, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this

chris from md - As much as I like Julio (not sure whether or not they can bring him back right now) I would much rather see Martin Prado. Correct me if I am wrong but he can play most of the infield positions. Also he is a much better hitter than Julio.

Another musing. If JS does call up Prado and he can play the infield positions like I think he can, then why keep Woodward. Send him packing and bring up someone else, either an extra pitcher to help keep the bullpen fresh or another stick, Pena perhaps, to help impove our bench. With Edgar gone our bench is pretty thin for quality pinch hitters. I know Willie and Matt are there when they are not starting but after that I think we are only hurting ourselves bringing up Thorman, Woodward or Miller in key situations.

By JasonInMaine

August 5, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

DOB,

If you had to guess, who do you think they will bring up? Orr, Prado, and Pena all seem possible. Pena would give them some versatility…I see Lillibridge is hitting .311 at Richmond, but as someone already mentioned, they aren’t going to start his options clock ticking. I also see that B. Jones has caught fire, and he, Prado, and Pena went back-to-back-to-back today!

Regards,

Jason

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

August 5, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this

Bob Wickman has not given up a earned run ALL YEAR at the Ted!!!! And yet folks worry about him pitching! Yeah, worry about him on the road, but we really can relax at home. And people can’t stand to have him pitch for us, cuz he is fat, more than any other reason I can see….Soriano should be our closer, right???

By Braveheart

August 5, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this

It has always been that when New Yorkers got old, they went down to Miami to live. Now it looks like when Miami players get old, they go to Queens to play - Loduca, Castillo, Alou, Delgado.

By JJMB

August 5, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this

I just read Audruw’s brief comment on Bonds. Not the sharpest tool in the shed.

I hope Glavine gets bombed 17-0.

By brewdawg

August 5, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

Efrim, Whole-heartedly disagree with you about how we would have won more without glavine. I can only remember one series where he was to blame, and that was in ‘02 against the giants, when he had two horrible starts. It’s a disgrace that Glavine gets booed more than cheered when he comes here. Personally, I think everyone that boos him either knows nothing about baseball (which I don’t believe applies to you), or they should be ashamed of themselves (insert your name here). I like your posts most of the time, but I guess we just have to agree to disagree here. But let’s put our silly disagreement behind us, and focus on hating the Mets, and sweeping their behinds at Shea. (BTW everyone, when the Mets get their new stadium, is it going to be named Shea again, or will it be known by a new name? Chipper may have another little one one day and I want him to have a good name for him/her. ) :)

By Waddington Wadsworth Wadfellow VIII

August 5, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Before the 90’s, I thought great pitching produced World Series crowns. Needless to say, we found that’s not the case.

It takes just a couple pitchers who have a clue, and GREAT hitters from top to bottom…

We now have that!

I can already see the AJC headline after the 2007 Series; BRAVES SWEEP!!!

If incorrect, I’ll strip nekkid and run through briar patches till somebody has me arrested!!

By brian

August 5, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

Is JS done dealing? If so who/what would he target (SP I assume)? Who do we have left to give up?

By Braveheart

August 5, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Anders, I believe you are misdiagnosing the problem with the Braves pitching. For the most part, until recently, the Braves bullpen has been everything you could ask for. No, we don’t have a shutdown closer but he is serviceable enough. Besides, the closer position is overrated anyway. When things were going right, Soriano was getting all the key outs in the tough situations.

But many in the pen have been burnt out by the starters not named Hudson and Smoltz. The repeated failures of the bottom of the rotation are what is killing this team. The Braves are 50-30 when Smoltz, Hudson, James, and Buddy start and 9-23 without them.

The problem therefore is not the pen. The pen though does need to persevere and right itself and somehow overcome the abuse the 3, 4, & 5 starters are doing to them. A rotation and pen featuring Smoltz, Hudson, James, Buddy, Dotel, Moylan, Mahay, Wickman, Soriano, Villareal, Yates, and even Paronto is pretty good.

It’s just those troublesome fifths for the Braves and the lack of innings by Chuck James that is killing this team and bullpen.

By Braveheart

August 5, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

Brewdawg, the Mets are actually gonna name their new field after one of our denizens I believe: Chase.

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

Brewdawg,

I have no idea what you are talking about.

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

Yars

I worry about the Phillies. Those pitching matchups scare me next week. I think we have the edge Saturday versus Adam Eaton, with Chuck going. I shudder to think about Lance Cormier going against Cole Hamels on Friday night. Jamie Moyer against Buddy should be a good game. I really do worry about the Phillies.

By Matt

August 5, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

DOB, what are the rules for setting the post-season roster? Do post season players have to be on the 40 man roster at the end of august?

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

Yes. Chuck James is killing the bullpen. Is it mental? A little, I’m sure. But he could sure use a third pitch. That slider he throws to righties gets demolished. Solid #4. Okay #3. I honestly could care less about his ERA. I want more innings from him.

By Kentavo

August 5, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

Hey what’s the Braves’ record without Andruw in the lineup? I don’t have the stats, but I can remember three wins and no losses. Isn’t it amazing when you take his pathetic bat out of the lineup? I hope Liberty easing up the payroll doesn’t ease up enough to keep AJ in town.

By Marty

August 5, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

Let’s do a quick review of the Mets’ bullpens, shall we?

Billy Wagner (1.33 ERA, 0.89 WHIP, .176 BAA) has had an outstanding year — no argument there. Let’s dig a little deeper into that bullpen, though:

• J. Smith (since June 1): 15 IP, 26 H, 9 ER, 11 BB, 9 K, 5.40 ERA, 2.47 WHIP
• P. Feliciano (since July 1): 9.2 IP, 8 H, 7 ER, 6 BB, 9 K, 6.52 ERA, 1.45 WHIP
• A. Sele (season) - 1.69 WHIP, .323 BAA
• G. Mota (season) - 4.84 ERA
• S. Schoeneweis (season) - 5.36 ERA, 1.66 WHIP

Not so hot.

By Fred Secunda

August 5, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

DOB, or anyone, what are the chances that Brent Lillibridge is added to the 40-man and he’s the guy who’ll be brought up as the reserve infielder? The reason I ask is neither Prado or Orr is considered a shortstop, and Lilli has raked at AA and AAA this year. It seems like guys like T.J. Bohn and Kevin Barry are just wasting space on the 40-man. Another thing we wouldn’t have to worry about is starting Lillibridge’s option clock, because he seems major league ready right now. I say let’s give this kid a cup of coffee, because we know we’re dealing with mediocrity in Prado or Orr.

By Bob

August 5, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this

Soriano looks down for the count.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 5, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this

Jason, that is a good question about whom they would call up. DOB, can correct me if I’m wrong but I think Prado, Orr, and B. Pena all have just one option left. So, I would assume it would depend on whom they are mnost willing to lose and I would say that has to be Pete Orr. So, it probably will be Pete Orr although Prado would be the much better option. It would be nice to see Lillibridge come up just to see what he’s got but I am sure the Braves want him staying down in the minors so he can continue to play everyday.

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

Marty

Be fair. What are Heilman’s numbers since July 1st?

By Br'er Rabbit

August 5, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

Wadfellow, you stay outta my briar patch!!

By JasonInMaine

August 5, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

Robert (JITB),

I may be wrong as I certainly am no options expert, but I was under the impression that if a player has options left, he can be called up and sent down as much as the team likes for that year. For example, each time Devine is sent down and recalled, it doesn’t count as an option. The fact that he was called up and optioned down (regardless of how many times in the year) counts against his options…maybe one of our esteemed bloggers that is well versed in this area could clarify…

By brewdawg

August 5, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

Gotta call my bad on that one… it was Eric from MO that responded to my original post at 556. Don’t ask me why I thought it was you that replied to it, because I’m at a loss. Just replace “efrim” with “Eric from MO” on my 828 post. Sorry dude.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 5, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

Again, I’m not sure about this but I think if a player is not on the 40 man roster, such as Joey Devine, he can be called up as many times as possible but once a player is placed on that 40 man roster he has three options. I think that is where the team ran into a problem with Thorman and why he is on the bench instead of B. Pena or Prado or Franco.

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

Brewdawg,

No problem.

All,

Can we move Lillibridge to CF right now and prep him for next year? Guess not. The Bravos will probably look for a CF through a trade.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 5, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

The next six games are key for the Braves. I don’t think its a make or break necessarily but I think it could be key in getting into the head of the New York Mets. I honestly don’t think the Mets believe the Braves or Phillies are real threats. They act like both teams are more of a nuisance than anything. Despite their mediocre play this team is very cocky. If the Braves were able to go into New York and take two of three or better yet sweep the Mets, I think the Mets would be hugely taken back. They may not say it outright publicly but if you listen to comments and read between the lines the Mets think they will wind up winning this division by six or more games. I do believe that this will go down to last week of the season but the only people who don’t believe that are the Mets and their fans.

By David-ATL14

August 5, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

The 5 position players on the 40 man roster not in ATl are Pena, Prado,Orr,Blanco and Bohn.

Bohn is currently on the DL in Richmond and not a candidate to get the call.

Orr has 2 options left after this season, you can go back and forth as many times as needed in a season it only counts as one option.

Sadly, I’m afraid Bobby will go with either Prado or peterson Orr.Pena or even Blanco would be a wiser choice.

By chrisklob

August 5, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Robert JIB, Any player on the 25 man roster is also on the 40 man roster. Devine is on the 40 man and has been since sometime in 05.

I believe that DOB explained options here a few weeks ago when the very bitter argument over Thorman and his options (or lack thereof) was taking place. Options are really option years. When a player has options, he can be shuttled back and forth between the minors and the big league club as often as deemed necessary.

By David-ATL14

August 5, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

Jason in Maine your option explanation is 100% correct.

RobertJITB- the old ball coach must have been the guest instructor for 2 hour seminar of Options-how many ways can I misunderstand? at your alma mater.LOL

By Eric from MO

August 5, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

BrewDawg- I think you are talking about me. Im the one who said we would won more without Glavine in the postseason. 02 is just one example. Look at the stats. He is below .500 in the postseason with the Braves. That is not good.

Kentavo-isnt it also amazing that someone named Jones isnt always on the DL.

By Metropolitan Man

August 5, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Marty:

All those stats and the METS bullpen collectively has the second lowest era in the NL.
What does they say about your overworked laborers?????

Get’em Glavine. The enemy of my enemy is my friend!!!!!

By Braveheart

August 5, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

Efrim, I agree with you but you can’t ignore his ERA or his won/loss record. You have to care about that. With Chuck, the quality is there. The quantity just leaves a little to be desired. Chuck is a very good #4 pitcher I agree. He also does kill the bullpen. The Braves have had to use an average 3.5 relievers for his starts this year. Unacceptable for a #3. I don’t think it is mental really. I think it to be a stamina and stuff problem. The stuff is plenty good enough to do his job effectively through the first two times through the lineup but not good enough at all through the third time through the order for some reason - probably because he is just a two pitch pitcher.

For example, go look at Mariano Rivera’s stats when he came up as a starting pitcher in 1995. In 95, his first time through the lineup, Mariano had a .211 average against, and .678 OPS against. The second time through, he had a .278 avg against with a .734 OPS against. The third time through, he had .383 AVG against with a 1.155 OPS against.

In pitches 1-25, Mariano had a .173 AVG against, in 26-50 it climbed to .241, in 51-75 it soared to .339, and in pitches 76-100 it skyrocketed up to .400 against. Mariano was just a one pitch pitcher back then with his rising fastball - he had not yet developed his infamous cutter.

Chuck has similar numbers: First time through, his numbers are .208 AVG against with a .631 OPS, second time through it is .260 with a .746 OPS against, and the third time through it is .297 with a .946 against. With pitch counts 1-25, it is a .214 AVG against with a .671 OPS against, in 26-50, it is .253 AVG against with a .770 OPS against, in 51-75, it is .265 AVG against with a .744 OPS against, and in pitches 76-100, it is .261 AVG against with a .843 OPS against.

It seems he does not wilt or tire through pitches 25-100. It seems like he might run out of ammo and stop fooling hitters as much because of his limited pitch selections to choose from which limit his ability to make necessary adjustments in the middle of games.

He probably needs to get working on another pitch and sharpen his curveball. It probably would not hurt for him to take baseball a little more seriously and give up the offseason job at Lowe’s. Cute story and all but he has got to dedicate himself more fully to becoming the best pitcher he can be during the offseason. That time could be better spent developing another pitch, perhaps developing more arm strength or in just pure psychotic conditioning through endless running and weightlifting in order to increase his stamina in games and through the season.

SO, I don’t think his problems are mental during the middle of games. I think if there are any mental issues at all it may be in the offseason where he needs to more fully dedicate himself to his craft and profession and give up that cute little offseason job.

IT works like this: the lack of mental and physical dedication to the game during the offseason causes limited pitch selection during games which causes limited adjustments to be made during games and which may cause limited stamina to go deeper into games.

Studying hitters and knowing hitters names also may not hurt. Another problem he has is efficiency. He throws way too many pitches for a dude who is not a strikeout pitcher. Maybe another pitch will enable him to be able to attack hitters more aggressively and confidently thus make him more efficient. Also, maybe as he becomes more of a vet umps will respect him more and call more strikes - kind of like Glavine received.

Long enough as is so I will shut up now!

By chrisklob

August 5, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

Don’t know if any of you heard this today but the radio guys said that Willie Aybar successfully completed his rehab and was rejoining the minor league system in an effort to make his way back to the big club.

Good luck Willie! We really could have used you instead of Orr or Woodward this year!

By Mets fan

August 5, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

marty, you are retarded. lets put it this way: who do you trust to close out games in the playoffs? a fat bald guy with a preferred strategy of putting the ball in play 0R a left-handed flame thrower who overpowers the opposition?

now go dig up some more stats, stupid.

By David-ATL14

August 5, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this

ChrisKlob is correct in his options explanation also.

By heath

August 5, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

as much as i hate the mets…. we control our own destiny on winning the division, but not so much with the wildcard. if the mets win tonight, that puts us in a tie for second place for the wildcard. we need teams like the mets, the cardinals, the diamondbacks and the brewers to beat teams like the cubs, padres and dodgers to help ensure we get a postseason berth. isn’t that all that matters…just get in baby

By Ron

August 5, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

OK everyone I want to put a poll on here and I want yall to vote on who yall would rather have at SS Next year, and beyond!!! I am figuring that we will trade Edgar!!! Who would yall rather have: Escobar OR Lillibridge as your Future SS?

My vote goes to Escobar!!!

By David-ATL14

August 5, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

Prado may get the call, but the denizens wanting him to replace Woodward can forget it, Prado can’t play SS. Huge detriment for him, no pop in his bat, no speed and a middle infielder that can’t play SS, at least not for Cox.

By Braveheart

August 5, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this

Metsfans, do you really trust Billy Wagner? Really?

Here is a reality check for you: In 6 postseason series, Wagner has pitched 10.3 innings, given up 18 hits, and has an 8.71 ERA. AN 8.71 POSTSEASON ERA FOR WAGNER. REPEAT: AN 8.71 POSTSEASON ERA FOR WAGNER!

NLDS GAME ONE, 2001: Wagner pitching in the 8th, Larry Wayne Jones takes Wagner Deep for a 3 run homer to win the game.

Please keep boasting about Wagner and throwing him out there when Chipper is up. We beg of you.

By MegaBravesFan

August 5, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

Ron It’s hard to vote for a guy you haven’t seen at the major league level…AND I absolutely love watching Edgar play, but Escobar is my vote too.

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

There’s something wrong when somebody brags about being in SF for Barry Bonds then completely ignores Glavine’s quest for 300.He’s ahead 5-0 in the 6th.He would be just the second in history to get his 300th in a shutout.I’m hoping he does,for those of you who can’t let go of his leaving long enough to injoy this…that’s your problem.GO TOMMY !!!after tonight I’ll go back to hating the Mutts.

By JJMB

August 5, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

PBS 8 has some MIB stuff on right now.

By chrisklob

August 5, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this

I hate to sound like I’m rooting for the Mutts but I have to say that I’ll be glad when Glavine gets his next victory so everyone will quit talking about it. Kind of like I’m glad Arod got his 500th and like I hope Bonds gets his next HR so he can fade away into oblivion.

Ron, you HAVE to go with Escobar as he is now a “known quantity”. Lillibridge is unproven at the top level.

By chrisklob

August 5, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

Is it the camera angle or my imagination or does Kerry Wood look downright skinny compared to how he looked before?

Haha, Jon Miller just made the same comment!

By Greg in TN

August 5, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

Evening lads and ladies…

Big win today to build momentum going into Flushing.

Good to see Yunel come up big in extra innings today, especially since extra innings games haven’t been particularly kind to this franchise in ‘07.

Was not able to get on to comment on yesterday’s outing by Columbus Georgia’s Tim Hudson. For all of the questions we had coming into the season as to whether Tim’s best days are behind him, he’s answered them and then some. He deserves Cy Young consideration at this point in the season certainly. I would have to say Brad Penny has the inside track, and deservedly so, however Tim is not that far behind him.

If you don’t get hyped up for a road trip in August like what we’re about to embark on folks, have a medical professional check your pulse.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 5, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

I stand corrected about the options. I said I wasn’t completely sure. So, that would mean that Orr and Prado both have two options and B. Pena has one. Is that right?

By Mets fan

August 5, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

braveheart, you retard. let me ask again: do you feel confident in a fat bald man closing out smoltz’s game? what about grand-slam soriano? i think the best guy you got is peter moylan. what a joke.

mets all the way - you’ll never catch us. this is the biggest 6 game stretch of your season, and mark my words: THE BULLPEN WILL BLOW IT EVERY TIME!!!

By Savannah Guy

August 5, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

The Daily Buzz (Fly on Wall Report No. 015)

After to talking with young McCann all afternoon, Fly reporter took off for the clubhouse. Too much jumping around by humans in a dugout after a win can be hazardous to reporters of the insect type. He arrived at the buffet table too late. Wicky was nowhere to be found. Chad was gone too. Even the crumbs had been cleaned from the table. Wiped clean. As our sleuth Braves reporter Mr. Fly sat there wondering what he would do for dinner, he had an unexpected visitor…the MetFly. Here’s an excerpt of what transpired:

(This has been edited and translated into human language for your reading convenience)

MetFly: Well, well, well…what do we have here? It’s da second place Fly.

Mr. Fly: What is that stinky smell? Oh…MetFly. Hey, trashcans out back.

MetFly: HAHAHAHA! Think I’m stupid? I already found the trashcans. Jeez.

Mr. Fly: Guess you never “met” garbage you didn’t like.

MetFly: My guyz are gonna kick the $%#@&# out’ta yerz.

Mr. Fly: Is that all you can come up with? Your Mutts are going down. Your bullpen has about a 6 run ERA, you have a lot of mid-200’s batting averages and you have been sucking since May. Have you seen our lineup? Lotta bats around the 300 mark. So what’s your comeback?

MetFly: HAHAHAHAHA! Stinkypoop on youze. Ya goin dowwwwntown. %$#*&@ and %@#&& on you hahahaha.

Mr. Fly: Arguing with you is useless.

MetFly: Too bad sukkkka. You are toast. And guess what…I ate the last of the ketchup off the trash lid…so starve you &$@&. Flydung. HAHAHA. HAHAHA!!!!

Mr. Fly: Whatever Dude. You stink. You hide. You are more a gnat than a fly.

MetFly: I have friends that invade your blog. We disruptive. We stink it up. We like messin youz &#@%

Mr. Fly: Very weak. Very illiterate. Very smelly. Whatever.

MetFly: HAHAHAHA!!!! stinky poop and turdy &@$#. Your girlfiend likes to…

(WHOOSH…SWAT…SPLAT)

Yunel: Hey Mr. Fly. Hope that wasn’t a friend of yours little buddy. He smelled.

Mr. Fly: No friend of mine Yuni. Hey, nice clutch hit today. Awesome! Nice swat tonight too!

Yunel: Thanks Fly. Hey, let’s get some fish tacos.

Mr. Fly: I’m in. Hold the jalepenos ok? Burns my legs.

Yunel: ¿Tanto más agradable cuándo la mosca de metro es un pequeño punto grasiento llano, verdad?

Mr. Fly: Uh…si. Yuni…you talk funny, buddy. Bzzzz.

By Efrim

August 5, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

Thats the thing. Chuck doesn’t take the game as serious as other guys. How does he walk Jamey Carroll in that spot? That baffles me. Joe Simpson was p** off. You could tell. Once we got the lead in the 5th, I knew Chuck was going to give it back. What is the Lowe’s story? Your kidding right?

By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist

August 5, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

dob, this journalist read that the ajc is going green and becoming eco-friendly. kindly inform the bloggers what changes dob has made to conform to this eco-friendly program (certainly no barbecue consumption can be permitted - sprouts only, right?). no more motorcycle - now a bicycle - can ride in with cynthia tucker. what other changes may be expected?

and now, is the old journalist also eco-friendly? and will this mean more pleasant times together in the elevator?

and road trip - no wires around the cheese. no longer permitted by tsa.

and mark davis still does not blog here. mark davis must think we are a idiot blog.

By Braveheart

August 5, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

Efrim, you haven’t heard that during the offseason Chuck is a home installation technician for Lowe’s hardware stores? DOB reported that during spring training and it is on Chuck’s Wikipedia page if you look over there.

Metsfan, I don’t have all the faith in the world in Wickman but I do have all the faith in the world that Billy Wagner will choke in a big spot as he always does, especially when our boy Chipper is shooting his eat sh!t Chipper grin at Wagner.

As for the grand slams, I blame that on Grand Slam Devine. It seems that whenever he gets the call up to the majors, the grand slams start flying around. IF we send him down again, the grand slams will cease.

By Marty

August 5, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

Mets fans, the Mets have a few good pitchers…as do the Braves. The Mets also have a host of terrible ones, possibly even more than do the Braves. Face facts.

On a more general note, one thing I will never understand about Mets fans is the need to trash-talk about future events. It’s as if you have the arrogance of Yankees fans, but with the insecurity of Cubs fans, and with the track record for success suffered by Phillies fans.

It all reminds me of the guy I ran into last year at Turner Field who wanted to talk trash before anything had been won. “Fourteen straight,” I shouted to him. His quick but witless (and easily predictable) retort? “How many World Series you won in that time?”

“One more than you,” was my equally obvious response.

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this

David I don’t think it’s accurate to say Prado has no pop in his bat.He’s not a hr hitter 4 so far but he has 20 2b a pace that would give him 34 for an entire mlb season.He is also hitting .320 with a obp of .382 and a very respectable .809 ops.I wish he had better base stealing ability but he has a chance to be a good offensive player.I said in the spring that I liked the way he looks at the plate,I still do.He has a very balanced ,rather upright stance not unlike Edgar’s.

By gotigers72

August 5, 2007 10:53 PM | Link to this

THAT was a good win today. Andruw didn’t play, McCann didn’t play, Moylan was unavailable and Edgar is on the DL, yet the Braves pulled it out.

Diaz continues to rake, don’t think he’ll ever stop raking. Just a natural born hitter. I would like to see what he would hit if he played every day, but Willie’s raking too so I don’t blame BC for platooning. Frenchy continues to hit when the Braves need a hit. But Yunel! What a player. I think it was last night’s game, the Rockies pitcher threw him mucho breaking balls his first time up and got him out. The second time up the guy threw him a breaking ball on the first pitch and Yunel ripped it for a hit. Very savvy player. Clutch too. Looks like he enjoys playing in the spotlight. Will be a star in the MLs for many a year. As he grows older and stronger, he may hit 15-20 homers. He can play SS like a mother!

By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist

August 5, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

whoa! mark davis will not be working at ajc long. read this: “Hueter, who has been studying the Mexican population for five years, has learned this much: “They aren’t Einsteins,” he said. “They’re like cows —- eating, eating, eating.”

this cannot be said! this is unacceptable!! worse than stinky. was vinny castilla this way? of course not. some things best left unsaid, unreported.

and now, journalist did enjoy especial de la casa just last night at a favorite mexican restaurant. most delicous and journalist was treated very well by all.

“what? what, baby seal?” oh, not mexicans. mexican fish. nevermind.

now, baseball … wonder how much time glavine has spent at the museums in new york? was important to glavine when tommy left atlanta awhile back. just wondering if tommy is a patron or something by now. opera, too. theatre. culture. or maybe a cheeseburger at wendy’s next door. looks like tommy gets 300 tonight. congratulations. win no more this year.

By Mets fan

August 5, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

hold on to your little yellow flagettes in the bleachers of turner field, because it’s all in the past. the mets are the future. and your team is falling apart. wait till andruw joins the mets next year. pretty soon, schuerholz and cox will die and you’ll be stuck with TP as your manager. man, you guys suck.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this

BRAVEHEART

You’re right…They are gonna name it “CHASE” field….

And then, JUST LIKE THE BRAVES, I’LL OWN THEIR @SSES!

Hey now maybe Chipper’ll name his next kid CHASE! LOL

Muts fans you’ve gotta admit it is bad when someone owns your team SOOOO BAD that they name their kid SHEA!!!!

Oh and Muts fans, Louis CASTILLO had to “BE HELPED FROM THE DUGOUT AND IT LOOKED SERIOUS”

By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist

August 5, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this

mike vick goes to the revival meeting and listens to the preacher. after a while, the preacher asks anyone with needs to come forward, and be prayed over.

mike gets in line.

when it’s his turn, the preacher says, “mike, what do you want me to pray about?”

mike says, “preacher, i need you to pray for my hearing.”

So the preacher puts one finger in mike’s ear, and the other hand on top of mike’s head, and prays a while. after a few minutes, he removes his hands and says, “mike, how’s your hearing now?”

mike says, “i don’t know, preacher, it’s not until next wednesday in virginia.”

By Marty

August 5, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

“The Mets are the the future,” you say? With your two and a half young guys? Nice try. The Braves are the team of the past and the future. The only question that remains is whether the Braves are also the team of the present.

By Braveheart

August 5, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

wait till andruw joins the mets next year.

metsfan do you promise? you promise to take Andruw? Shush everyone. please stop your snickering. Let them think they are stealing something from us that we are not tired of.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

EFRIM and others…

I still bet that the BRAVES keep ANDRUW and TEX before it is all said and done!

I think the trades signal that JS may have a good bit more money to deal with.

Also don’t forget that HAMPTON’s 14 million and Wickman’s 6 mil will come of the books (wick’s after this year) and Hampton’s after next.. and HAMPTON’s money will be almost enough to sign TEX (maybe 2-4mil more)

By Mets fan

August 5, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this

oh, and daily buzz fly on the wall guy: get a f*** life. you’re not funny at all. you suck.

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

Muts fan, i can see you are dying to get AJ, where are you exactly planning to put him in the OF? I though you already had the best CF around.

You are so pathetic that you shouldnt be allowed to enter shea stadium, you are a joke.

One more thing….. you and your muts fans buddies can send your list of braves players you wish to have next year in muts uniform and we will see what we could arrange for you, we will talk to chipper and escobar to see if they want to go over there, we cant promise you anything but a LOL from them but we will give it a try.

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 11:19 PM | Link to this

Heymarty i prefer having the team of the past and present, not the team of the future (maybe 100 years from today)…….what abot you?

By Mets fan

August 5, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

chase, you are so stupid. tex and andruw are both boras’ and he will command 17-20 million a year for both. also, you are retarded because the braves aren’t paying hampton’s contract anyway, the insurance policy is. that’s one of the biggest scams in baseball, is to tell someone to sit out the year so insurance can pay the contract. he probably could have pitched. either way, the braves keep tex and lose andruw, and suck either way. go mets.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

No matter how tired or aggravated any of you are with ANDRUW….

Remember…. He is still the BEST Defensive Otfielder in the GAME and MAYBE EVER

He is still only 30 and He is a SURE FIRE Hall of FAMER

He is gonna get to at least 600 HRs (only needs 220 or so more) and has a shot at 3000 hits (he has over 1600 already) and he is gonna win 12-15 Gold gloves or more!

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

any reports on what happened with castillo? I hope he can keep playing, if not muts fans will say they lost the division because the lost castillo……..

if anyone knows what is the injury report, please post it.

Thanks

By Chop Chop

August 5, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

Let me be the first to congratulate Tom Terrific on his 300th win. I realize I’m congratulating him before the conclusion of the game (11:24 p.m. - 1 out in the 9th), but I assure you that I am in no way trying to jinx him. Once again, congrats on 300, Tommy Boy!

By Marty

August 5, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

Overlord, I like our chances this year and next year.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

I’LL BET ANYBODY that that Triple Jamie CARROLL hit today that HARRIS dove for…. ANDRUW would have CAUGHT THAT IN STRIDE!

You people that bash his strikeouts and batting average forget the MONUMENTAL AMOUNT of HITS and RUNS he SAVE WITH HIS GLOVE!

And you WILL NOT REALIZE IT UNTILL HE’S GONE!

But I Still think he stays

By chrisklob

August 5, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this

Chase, I agree that it appears that JS may have more payroll to get things done. Of course, exactly how much is yet to be seen.

This off-season is going to be very interesting with regards to what happens with AJ. He’s been better lately but overall it’s been a pretty dismal year for him. Will JS offer him a fair deal in a long term contract? Better question: do we WANT him back at whatever the current market determines is his fair value? Could we actually sign him to a fair deal with Boras as his agent? Do we re-sign him to a one year deal to give him another chance to prove to everyone that he’s not done?

While we do have a lot of salary coming off the books in the next two years don’t forget that Smoltz and Hudson are both due big raises next year and in the next couple of years some of our youngsters (won’t be so young then) will be due significant raises also.

On a somewhat different note, here’s my take on what separates the Braves and Mets franchises. The Braves are more creative in trading for guys that they need and they’re smarter in making trades. The Mets are more reactionary in their deal-making. When the Yankees make a big move, the Mets feel it necessary to do something big too, if for no other reason than to try to keep up with the Yankees in the tabloids. It could be nothing more than a difference in corporate philosophies: proactive vs. reactive.

Also, and not insignificantly, the Braves develop much more home-grown talent than the Mets do. Home-grown talent is almost always cheaper than a big free agent signing or trade for a big name.

By BossLady

August 5, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

CONGRATULATIONS - TOM GLAVINE

The man that brought winning to the Atlanta Braves.

I’ll always love you.

Pamela

Kudos to Cubby fans for the ovations…

By Jared

August 5, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

I’d be much happier if the Mets lost and the Braves gained a game in the standings after today’s Braves’ victory, but thankfully the “Tom Glavine 300 win” watch is over and hopefully he’ll retire at the end of the year and I’ll never have to see or hear of him again.

By Chase

August 5, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

GLAVINE wins 300th……..

HE will be a BRAVE again next year..mark it down

It must kill Muts fans that when the ESPN pre-game came on Almost 3/4 of the highlites were of Glavine ina Braves’ uniform

and that he tried his best to come back home this offseason

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

Well Galvine got his win.I hope JS,BC and his former teammates give him a call.I think they’ll be big enough to…I hope so anyway.It should have happened here but such is life.

By Serbok

August 5, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

Congratulations to Tom Glavine!!!! I echo Grinches feelings on the greed part, However, I tend to believe that there was more to his benedictivity than money. We as fans are NEVER told the whole story behind anything in Pro sports!

By Overlord

August 5, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

Marty i do too I like them better next year when hampton and gonzo are back and when they get another SP in the winter. But as loaded as position players are right now….. it would be unthinkable not to get to post season. Unacceptable for the fans.

By brewdawg

August 5, 2007 11:40 PM | Link to this

Thank you Tom Glavine, for allowing a grown man to shed an unashamed tear (or two), and reminding us during this tumultous off-season around all of professional sports, of “What once was good, and could be again.” I am not only a Braves fan tonight, but a baseball fan glad to be alive for this moment.

By Marty

August 5, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

Chase, you’re completely right about Andruw getting to that ball without a dive.

By Chase

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

METS FaN

You STUPID TROLL!! You must be a teenager!

Coming on here calling everyone “stupid” and “retarded” YOU ARE JUST A MUTS TROLL

And for your INFO my Friend…The BRAVES ARE paying Hampton’s contract (THEY HAVE TO WAIT TO BE RE-IMBURSED)

It doesn’t matter who their agents are.. ANDRUW already went around BORAS before and if you’d read DOB’s recent article you’d realize he’ll pretty much DO ANYTHING to STAY here for his whole career.

As far as TEX goes we’ll just have to see… we don’t know how much JS can spend

MUTS FAN IT SOUNDS TO ME LIKE YOU ARE LASHING OUT BECAUSE I JUST ARTICULATED YOUR WORST FEAR

I think you are trying to convince yourself it is not possible for the Braves to keep them both because you are TERRIFIED of what will happenif they do!

But I got news for you.. Even if they don’t.. the BRAVES, unlike the MUTS have a many many All-Star caliber young guys just waiting for their chance and many who are already here…

MUT can you say FRANCOEUR, McCann, Escobar, Johnson, Harris, Diaz, Brandon Jones, Lillabridge, Prado..

The MUTS on the other hand are OLD as DIRT… AFter Wright and Reyes who the hell do you have that isn’t A YEAR AWAY FROM COLLECTING SOCIAL SECURITY

Don’t just pop in here spewing venom at everyone you TROLL

By A-ville Ranger

August 5, 2007 11:50 PM | Link to this

OK last comment on the subject.The Braves released Niekro before he got 300.He got his with NY as well (the Yankees).Bad karma ? I don’t think so but it’s a shame for sure. Chase…. I’d be all for Tom ending his career in a Braves uni.

By Mike

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

F*** Glavine.

By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist

August 5, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this

the truth can now be told about young matt harrison:

“Harrison said he’s feeling good and that he never had pain in his left shoulder before this season. He believes a month-and-a-half-long bout with turf toe on his left foot caused him to alter his mechanics, which brought about the tightness.”*

oh, the humanity! toe illness on a top prospect and it was not revealed. and now, matt harrison is no longer a brave. toes are not to be trifled with.

By hewhoone

August 5, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I’d like to send Glavine a congratulatory note or card. What would be the best way to congratulate him and let him know that we appreciate what he did for us?

Jimi

By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist

August 5, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

never mind. g’night.

By Jared

August 5, 2007 11:58 PM | Link to this

Oh there was more to Glavine’s signing with the Mets in 2002 and 2006 than money, that being union protection.

Face facts, the man is and was a union tool. He proved that in 1994 and again in 2002 when, after agreeing in principle to a contract with the Mets, tried to back out only to officially sign with the Mets after his agent and the players’ union put pressure on him to take the most money and boost other free agent pitchers’ asking prices. It’s all about the $$$.

I never cared for Glavine when he was a Brave and I certainly don’t as a Met. I don’t care one bit that he won 300 tonight, I only saw it as another failed chance for the Braves’ to make up some ground.

Fire away rose colored glasses-wearing Glavine partisans.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 5, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

Evening all, First congratulations to “Tom Terrific”, Having seen him when he started out in Richmond and so many years in Atlanta, one cannot be glad he has archived such a milestone. Too bad it was as a Met. Now, let’s show the New Yorkers what a real winning team looks like.

Don’t really care who leaves and who stays any longer. I know the Braves will continue to field a first class team.

And by the way, does anyone really think Andruw would relish playing in New York knowing the kind of reception he would get batting .230? If he leaves Atlanta it will not be for parts north. He does not need the money that bad.

A tip of the cap to the AtlantaBraves.com site for the mention of the Richmond Braves first baseman Barbaro Canizares, who is also a Cuban defector. The big fellow can really stroke the ball. Reminds me a bit of Randal Simon.

And a special note to Savannah Guy, I don’t know who the Fly is interviewing but he has to really have his buzz on to talk with Wicky and Chad at the same time as Paronto has been in Richmond for four days. He’s a big boy but not quite that big.

By Savannah Guy

August 6, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

Mets Fan: The Fly reporter thanks you for the best compliment he has received all day. Glad Daily Buzz struck a chord. Little splat get you? Get used to it.

Serbok: I too congrat Glavine and dittos to your post. There is much we will never know of from behind clubhouse doors. Popular perception and conventional wisdom is often like fortune and fame. Neither should be what they claim (half apologies to Robert Zimmerman).

By D

August 6, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this

The Mets new stadium is to be called CitiField after CitiBank, not Chase field.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 6, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this

Chase Just ignore the trolls, you cannot reason with them because they are mindless. The have no original thoughts of their own. They can only recite the BS they get from ESPN and such experts as Jon Miller. So consider the source.

No one really takes them seriously. They cannot get attention on their own blogs so they join us in hopes they will be noticed. They do not react to insults because they are too stupid to comprehend the fact they are being ridiculed. So just pass them by, they will soon grow tired of the lack of attention.

By D

August 6, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

The new Mets stadium is to be called Citifield after Citibank, not Chase field.

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 12:12 AM | Link to this

Hewhoone, in lieu of cards, probably best to send cash to his charity. I can deliver it to him. Just send it to me at the paper….

John Doe show tonight was outstanding. As was the Fox Bros. BBQ at Smith’s Olde Bar. The highlight of the Doe show was “4th of July.” Terrific version. And their cover of Gimme Shelter” for encore was stunning….

Oh, Hewhoone, I was just kidding about the cash. But I’m sure you realize that. DO NOT SEND TO ME.

Best way probably is to send it to Mets (probably can look up their address at their website). Sorry, but I don’t really know how else to go about it.

By Savannah Guy

August 6, 2007 12:12 AM | Link to this

Gil in Mechanicsville Wow! Thanks Gil for pointing that out. Can a guy have just a bit of semi-fictional slack? Oh, I suppose now you’re going to try and tell me that flies can’t talk? Where was that technical advisor anyway? Oh well…guess I’ll have to send out a retraction. I’m busted.

Oh, but wait…did you know that Chad came up this afternoon for the day off? No? Yep, girlfriend stuff. Not important though. Just fiction. I amuse myself. The Fly is always buzzed. Thanks.

By BossLady

August 6, 2007 12:15 AM | Link to this

Okay, let’s forget that Glavine was a Brave or that he is a met now. 300 wins is a feat in MLB. All the other pitchers after him ovet 200 will probably never reach, he might be the last in this era. Sports history is important to real fans. The classy tribute to Biggio in Atlanta and real fans in Chicago giving congrats to Glavine.

I love music any kind of music, I love good players any team players as long as it’s groovey. Ojays

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 12:16 AM | Link to this

Jason, if I had to guess, I’d say Orr….

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 6, 2007 12:23 AM | Link to this

There seem to be many folks on the blog that are anti union, is that all unions or just baseball? I will not get into the politics of it all but I lost a lot of respect for the Baseball Players Union when they refused to honor a picket line in Philadelphia after the labor unions in that city had honored theirs. Supposed to be a two way street.

Anyway, never underestimate the power of greed.

By chrisklob

August 6, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

BossLady, I’m with you. If Tommy G had never been a Brave I’ll bet that no one here would have a bad word for him. What he’s accomplished tonight may NEVER be done again, unless they raise the mound or do something else to help the pitchers. Of course, that’s unlikely because low scoring games are considered boring in our society (just look at soccer’s lack of success). Randy Johnson is next in line. He has 280 or so wins but he’s 44 and has had back issues for years. If he gets to 300 (or anyone else for that matter) I’ll be just as happy for him as I am for Glavine because, first and foremost, I am a baseball fan and can appreciate what has been accomplished.

By Savannah Guy

August 6, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this

Further: I guess I should also give a little inside dope on Fly too. Uh, on the buzz part…he hails from a small drinking community with a fishing problem. Not his fault.

By Serbok

August 6, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

Efrim We have the BEST defensive CF in maybe the history of the game! And you wanna put WHO? out there? Not to mention the fact,That AJ DOES still incur Fear in the opposing pitchers minds, regardless of his BA! Think about it? If YOU were pitching against AJ, would you Not respect his proven PAST? (Ability) I realize AJ has been very dissapointing this year. However, his BA and mere presence at the plate since the All star break have been good. Do I want him up in clutch situations? NO of course not. But Dude! The man is STILL one of the best Center fielders of All Time!! And you wanna put WHO in Center field?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 6, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

Savannah Guy Don’t be so defensive, I am not calling you out. I thought your Fly post was pretty funny. Everybody seems so on edge, is there a left over effect from yesterday?

Chill Dude, I have no beef with you, no pork or chicken either.

By Patrick

August 6, 2007 12:33 AM | Link to this

DOB, sat right behind you at the game Friday night. Didn’t know you get to hang out with the common folk every now and then.

By Savannah Guy

August 6, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

Gil: Since you opened this pandoras box, I vote no on unions too. Unless they are Vidalia Unions. Or Bloomin Unions. Just peel back the union and discover what political beliefs are out there.

By the way, on politics: An archeological team, digging in Washington DC , has uncovered 10,000 year old bones and fossil remains of what is believed to be the first Politician.

By gotigers72

August 6, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this

DOB - If you’re still awake and checking out the blog, any word on the Braves signing the Heyward kid yet? I believe they only have about 10 more days or he goes back in the draft for next year.

IMO, the Braves should use money to extend Teixeira, and pull a McCann type deal and lock up Francoeur for as many years as possible. Anyone that can’t see that he’s gonna be a 5 tool superstar doesn’t know much about baseball. I hope he learns how to steal bases. He has enough speed to get 20-30 per year, but he just doesn’t get good jumps or read pitcher’s well. YET!

By Savannah Guy

August 6, 2007 12:44 AM | Link to this

Gil: Old friendly denizen…defensive? Calling me out? Everybody seems on edge? Yesterday? Chill? Where’s the beef Gil? It’s all good Dude. I appeciated your technical point and…well, it’s a great day. Keep those sally league hits coming. (insert smiley face here)

By Coach ( Hank Aaron Will Always Be My HR Champion)

August 6, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

Thank you John Schuerholz for allowing me to witness Tom Glavine win number 300 in a Mets uniform. Now go take a flying leap off a tall building and you will quickly realize that you are not the superman of all GM’s.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 6, 2007 12:47 AM | Link to this

Yo DOB, You making the trip to New York and Phillie or just the New York series? The weather is going to be brutal so be prepared, especially Philadelphia this time of year. It is much more humid than Atlanta if you can believe it.

I too suspect Orr will be called up. he has been playing centerfield and third in most of the games in which he has appeared for Richmond. His batting average my be a little deceptive. He could not hit water if he fell out of a boat when he first came down but his stroke is much better now.

Prado is actually playing better than Orr but almost exclusively at second. He has been hitting the ball with authority and for higher average. The Braves have not called me to get my opinion however, so who knows. If it were up to me I would call up Lillibridge.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 6, 2007 12:58 AM | Link to this

Okay, time to give it up. Good win for the Braves today, keep thinking those positive thoughts. After all, you could be a Tampa Bay fan.

By Serbok

August 6, 2007 1:10 AM | Link to this

By Chase

August 5, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

EFRIM and others…

I still bet that the BRAVES keep ANDRUW and TEX before it is all said and done/

I agree dude!!!

ANDRUW is 30 Years of age!!! C’mon guys?????????? He IS FAR from washed up! I mean, I know it’s frustrating? Is AJ the first player to ever have an “off” season? THE man is one of the most talented players to ever play the game???? HE IS 30 years of age!!!!!!!!! Gimme a freakin break! The people who do not want the braves to re-sign him are absolute Idiots!! I grant you, I have felt the same way this year at times! Then somehow reasonable thought over came my stupidity!!

By Jared

August 6, 2007 1:22 AM | Link to this

Thank you John Schuerholz for allowing me to witness Tom Glavine win number 300 in a Mets uniform. Now go take a flying leap off a tall building and you will quickly realize that you are not the superman of all GM’s.

Well this is a dumb post.

First of all, Schuerholz was still under the thumb of Time Warner this past offseason. He didn’t have the payroll to even make Glavine an offer. Plus Glavine was crying for a no-trade clause, something Schuerholz never gives to anyone, even players that are better than Glavine didn’t recieve one. He tried, that much is obvious. Get over it.

Second, the rumors were Hudson had to be traded to free up the payroll to sign Tom Glavine. One year of old man Glavine or possibly four more years of Tim Hudson? Would you make that swap, Hudson for Glavine? I wouldn’t. Hudson has mores win, a better ERA, a lower WHIP, more strikeouts and is making less money. Face it, at this stage Hudson is an all-around better pitcher than Glavine. Glavine’s ERA is well over four and his peripherals are basically the same as Kyle Davies’, minus the strikeouts Davies has.

It’s not Schuerholz who needs to take the flying lead off a tall building….

By Serbok

August 6, 2007 1:25 AM | Link to this

DOB 12:12 AM post was Too Funny!!! Had to do the disclaimer thing? Sorta like whats on a shampoo bottle? “Not intended for internal consumption?” LOL

By Coach ( Hank Aaron Will Always Be My HR Champion)

August 6, 2007 2:31 AM | Link to this

Jared, are you really that stupid ? REALLY ? What the hell does Tim Hudson have to do with Tom Glavine , WHAT ? Glavine left after the 2002 season and Hudson Didn’t become a Brave until the 2005 season M-O-R-O-N. I’ll educate another ignorant individual , Glavine was replaced with Mike Hampton in 2003 and do I really need to comment on the disaster that that Hampton has been ? I do need to say this , if Glavine had stayed a Brave the division/playoff streak would now be at fifteen and counting. Glavine would have won number 300 in a Braves uniform. So , once again I say a big UP YOURS to John Schuerholz for another of his brain fart idea’s that totally back fired.

By Jared

August 6, 2007 3:13 AM | Link to this

Jared, are you really that stupid ? REALLY?

You’re asking me that? Dude, you’re too f*ing dense to see I’m talking about the 2006 offseason, not the 2002 one. Can you not tell that with all the Tim Hudson talk I did? Idiot.

By Coach ( Hank Aaron Will Always Be My HR Champion)

August 6, 2007 3:26 AM | Link to this

Yea , don’t worry , be happy. Bonds is about to forever stain the record books , Glavine won his 300th in a muts uniform and they are the ones who have been in first place for three months. Yea , happy happy , joy joy and all that kool-aid. Hey , only 50 more games of M-E-D-I-O-C-R-I-T-Y left !

By Coach ( Hank Aaron Will Always Be My HR Champion)

August 6, 2007 3:39 AM | Link to this

Jared , your the one who is F** dense as a three foot post. If Glavine had stayed a Brave , they would have a rotation capable of making the playoff’s. Rumors , mushrooms and lies will get you nothing but trouble , Hudson was never going anywhere. The Braves never had the money to sign Glavine this past off season. I spent the ENTIRE off season trying to explain to I-D-I-O-T-S just like you why Hudson would come back and have a great season and I was completely correct in my assessment. I suppose your going to try and explain to me why you think the Braves will make the playoff’s ? News flash M-O-R-O-N , they have a three starter who can’t go six innings , a career minor league journeyman for a fourth starter , and last but not least , Cormier. The converted relief pitcher. Come on Jared , explain to me how this retread rotation will catch the Mets ? I’m gonna eat you for breakfast , lunch and dinner.

By Jared

August 6, 2007 4:18 AM | Link to this

If Glavine had stayed a Brave , they would have a rotation capable of making the playoff’s. Rumors , mushrooms and lies will get you nothing but trouble , Hudson was never going anywhere.

Umm…according to David O’Brien, Ken Rosenthal, Mark Bowman and people who…you know, actually know this stuff, the Braves were shopping Hudson this past offseason to clear salary room for Glavine. They never made an offer because the payroll wasn’t there. They couldn’t afford Hudson and Glavine. And I was on here saying Hudson would be good this year too, so spare me.

Second, I never even once mentioned the Braves and the playoffs here. What the heck are you talking about? You’re putting words and my mouth and trying to make me look like a fool for saying something I never even said. But I do think the Braves have a chance.

I’m gonna eat you for breakfast , lunch and dinner.

Oh please. You don’t even sound serious. I think you’re part joking.

By Jared

August 6, 2007 4:21 AM | Link to this

…and they are the ones who have been in first place for three months.

Only matters where you are after game #162. Just ask the 2006 Tigers.

By Coach ( Hank Aaron Will Always Be My HR Champion)

August 6, 2007 4:47 AM | Link to this

Umm…according to David O’Brien, Ken Rosenthal, Mark Bowman and people who…you know, actually know this stuff, the Braves were shopping Hudson this past offseason to clear salary room for Glavine. They never made an offer because the payroll wasn’t there. They couldn’t afford Hudson and Glavine. And I was on here saying Hudson would be good this year too, so spare me………. Hey , Jared. These so called experts(That is funny) are paid to spread rumors. O’Brien picked the Braves to win the division this season. So , just watch him spend the next fifty games backing up and away from that prediction. Just ask Jimmy Leyland (another expert) what happens when you leave your ace (Kenny Rogers)on the bench and go with the rookie (Verlander) what happens. The Tigers got beat by a lesser team because Leyland screwed up. Don’t take my word for it , look at the standings and tell me the Cardinals are still going to make the playoff’s this year. Expert’s my a.s.s , baseball writers , maybe. I told everyone that Hudson would stay a Brave and that he would have a great season , does that make me an expert ?

By Bob, Journalist

August 6, 2007 5:49 AM | Link to this

No Coach, it would be wrong for us to suggest that you’re an expert … but, it’s okay for you to so say … still, I’ll have to check my archives to see what you said about Hudson’s future back when you were HeadCoach and he was having problems.

By JasonInMaine

August 6, 2007 5:50 AM | Link to this

DOB, thanks…I think. I was afraid you were going to say that! I like Pete…really do…but, I don’t think he is the right man to call up. But, maybe he will come up and hit like he did his rookie year….

By Coach ( Hank Aaron Will Always Be My HR Champion)

August 6, 2007 6:09 AM | Link to this

Check away Bob , I speak the truth. Anyway , look at the bright side. With all the money the Braves brass have to spend , we can go get Glavine back for 2008 and make a serious run at the World Series.

By bill

August 6, 2007 6:53 AM | Link to this

I had rather have Escobar, only if they can trade for a good pitcher. Lillibridge probably will be in AFL learning CF. If things go right, he will be in CF and B. Jones will be in LF. I think the Braves are going after one pitcher and another one for the pen. Congrats. to Glavine but don’t think he will ever pitch again for the Braves.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 7:35 AM | Link to this

Good morning all, and congratulations on a relatively “calm” night. Maybe the Coach got his jock-strap a little wadded, but then, Coaches will be Coaches.

By ssiscribe

August 6, 2007 7:40 AM | Link to this

Top of the morning, denizens. Nothing like a two-game winning streak including an extra-inning victory — stop the presses! — to give you a good feeling heading into the work week.

And, for the Braves, a good feeling flying to the great Northeast for a week that could go a long way in determining what path Atlanta will follow to get into the National League playoffs.

The Braves open tomorrow’s showdown series with the first-place Mets at Shea Stadium 4 1/2 games out of the top spot in the NL East. The persistent Phillies, who somehow found a way to rally from a huge deficit to outlast Milwaukee in extras Sunday, sit 5 games out of first.

That much we know. Where will the Braves sit come one week from today? The next six games are very critical, because they represent two-game swings against the two teams the Braves are directly competing against in the NL East.

Win tomorrow night at Shea, and the deficit is 3 1/2. Lose, and it’s 5 1/2. Sweep, it’s 1 1/2. Get swept, it’s 7 1/2 and time to really start focusing on the wild card.

You get the picture. It’s a very big week for the Braves. Hence, why Sunday’s extra-inning victory over Colorado was so big. And it’s fitting Yunel Escobar came through with such a big game. He’s the rookie who replaces the injured Edgar Renteria. Escobar hasn’t played like a rookie since coming up, and he needs to keep playing like this while he plays every day for Edgar.

Also fitting for Chipper Jones to have a big day after battling a hand injury. Chipper, in case you don’t know, loves facing the Mets. The Mets don’t love facing Chipper.

Now, Glavine (noted transition from the Scribe): Glad to see Tommy get No. 300 last night, even if it kept the Braves from gaining a game. Tommy ticked off a lot of people when he left for a very marginal increase to go play with the Mets, but he did win a lot of big games here and he did a lot in the community.

I’m not going to rehash all of Glavine’s departure, or try to make the argument over whether his break from the Braves negates what he did on and off the field during his time here. What I will say is 300 wins is a hell of an accomplishment, and I’m glad he got there.

Now, Tommy, go 0-for down the stretch.

Everybody enjoy the off day. I’ve got work to do. CR, as far as your question on the last blog — sorry I’m tardy in getting back to you; spent the weekend with the family and didn’t touch the computer much — yeah, you may remember me from kicking around the press box and locker room here and there a few years ago (I e-mailed you a couple of months ago about somebody in one of your stories who I had covered). Murph’s a great guy, and I hope all is well in his world, and in your world, too.

The Scribe abides.

—30—

By doc

August 6, 2007 7:45 AM | Link to this

cudos to glavine, however, agree with journalist js that he win no more this year in a mets uni.

too bad there was an entity called aol or a stock market “correction” so quickly after it absorbed turner. maddox, glavine, smoltz and huddy would be tough to beat over a season and may have saved a few bullpen arms that have blown up along the way. where is the guy with a 3.75- 4.25 era that can get deep into games?

By Braveheart

August 6, 2007 8:02 AM | Link to this

Here’s what the New York Post reported as Smoltz’ comments about Glavine winning 300:

“The biggest thing I learned over the years of watching many games and watching him go through tough times on and off the field, I gained a sense of workmanlike attitude that allowed him to be successful in any endeavor,” Smoltz said. “He was the magician for awhile. He’d get out of jams. The Houdini. And then he was basically an artist the way he pinpointed everything and he just really mastered the art of pitching with what some people considered less than dominant stuff.

“And to see that time in and time again, you realized that it wasn’t luck. It wasn’t something that we scored a ton of runs for him or anything like that. He just flat out knew how to win and he wouldn’t give in. And he wouldn’t give in to the circumstances that most people would have given in to.

“I don’t really know when I thought … he’d win 300 games. His ability to pitch hurt, his ability to keep pitching was probably the first thing I thought of.

“I think it was one of his Cy Young years… . He had a cracked rib. And a lot of people didn’t know it. And he pitched through it. And he got his series of treatment and shots. And he pitched through it. And he took a lot of criticism for some of the games that he pitched. But nobody knew the extent of the injury. And he went about his business like it was no big deal. I think, if memory serves me well, that he won the Cy Young that year. But I know he won 20.

“I have two favorite memories. Obviously Game 6 of the [1995] World Series. You can’t pitch any better than that. Win our only World Series championship. And then off the field, we have so many golf memories, but the one that takes the cake is his home course, par five and walking across what was a little stone wall across the creek. And the next thing I hear is this tremendous splash.

“Obviously I jerked my head around and I see one club up in the air above the water and he’s totally submerged. He’s gone in with two clubs and he came out with one. And he’s soaking wet. We’re all laughing [a ton]. And he comes out … walks across the fairway, changes clothes, hits the shot like nothing ever happened. And I couldn’t get that sound out of my head every time I went to go swing. I heard that splash and it was absolutely hilarious. He did lose a club out of it, though.

“His stoic kind of personality may seem that he’s unapproachable and that he’s this stern guy that led the baseball players union and the strike. That to me I wish there was a way to undo so that he didn’t have to bear some of that responsibility. Because that is not an accurate assessment. I think anyone who plays with him knows what you get as a teammate and how much he cares about the game and cares about people.”

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 8:17 AM | Link to this

Open Letter to Tom Glavine

I watched you when you came up(when I could) and I liked you a lot. I liked you less when you became TG, the union man. I don’t like you now, after you walked away and took up with the wrong crowd.

But, I admire what you have done and, in your time, you were one-hell-of-a-pitcher.

Congratulations on your 300th win.

By Braveheart

August 6, 2007 8:21 AM | Link to this

We must sweep the Mets and come out of that series with a Magic Number of 50. For the past 3 months or so, the Braves have just been treading water, pretty much winning when the Mets win & losing when the Mets lose. Sweeping them will be the best way to advance on them. Even if the Mets let the Braves win 2 out of 3, the Mets have done their jobs. 2 of 3 only gains one game on the Mets whereas a 3 game sweep will knock 3 games off the lead in a hurry. Anything short of a 3 game sweep of the Mets by the Braves is a failure on the part of the Braves.

By Will

August 6, 2007 8:33 AM | Link to this

Congrats to Glavine, he was always my favorite pitcher, he would have stayed a Brave in the first place, and would have returned this season if they were in a better spending situation. Dont blame him for leaving even if it was to the Mets, i dont like it, but its part of baseball and any pro sport for that matter. Good wknd to come back and win two after Smoltize took a loss Friday, that was not a good way to start the series. I still feel frustrated because yes the Braves did go 4-2, but are still sitting 4 1/2 games back after yet another homestand against sub-par competition. Definitely hoping for a sweep in New York, 2 out of 3 would be okay, but that would still only shave 1 game off the defecit. Wild Card standings are at least looking more managable right now.

By Will

August 6, 2007 8:42 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, Right on! I totally agree anything less then a sweep is not gonna work at NYM this week. Are Smoltz and Huddy gonna pitch Wed and Thu since they have the off day today? I would assume/hope that is is the case, but i have not heard what the plans are.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this

Will Are you already “rationalizing” us into the wild card? Com’on man, it ain’t over ‘til it’s over—the upcoming series with the Muts, not-with-standing.

By Drummerdad

August 6, 2007 8:51 AM | Link to this

I have against Roger McDowell. I don’t know the details of a pitching coach’s job. I think he’s persisted at trying to make lemonade with the people he had to work with (especially last year). But one of the things that strikes me about Leo’s success was his harping on location and mental toughness. I think that a lot of those guys were very motivated by the fear of having of to deal with Leo in the dugout if they weren’t doing what he wanted them to do. HENCE, I offer this idea: BRING GLAVINE BACK AS NEXT YEAR’S PITCHING COACH. He’s basically a disciple of Leo. He’s mentally tough and succeeded in Atlanta when the weather can make you feel like it’s sucking your brains out. And when Terry Pendleton takes Bobby’s place, bring David Justice back as hitting coach.

By Drummerdad

August 6, 2007 8:57 AM | Link to this

Braveheart and Will, I agree that this is the Braves’ chance. Tough series coming. The Mets will be pumped.

By mark

August 6, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this

The Braves still have major pitching woes…no game is safe with a lead

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this

Drummerdad Then where is Julio? Bench coach? That would work.

By Ron H

August 6, 2007 9:03 AM | Link to this

Let’s be realistic here. I don’t think we’ll sweep the METS. if we win 2/3 as we have the last two series, then we’re good to go. Then, we have to do the same with the PHILLIES. I’d say that we have to go 4/6 in the two upcoming series. We (Braves) haven’t had a long winning streak all season. Heck, the NATIONALS have had more (and longer) winning streaks than the BRAVES have. Renteria being out hurts…

Given the way we’ve been playing, i’ll be glad with 2/3 from each series. The good thing is that we will miss Maine and Glavine (although we will face a tough pitcher on Tuesday) while throwing Smoltz and Hudson on the mound in games 2 and 3.

If we get swept by the METS, we’re done…no way we’ll come back from 8 down with 50 games to go.

This said, i like our chances.

Gooo Braves!

By Braveheart

August 6, 2007 9:08 AM | Link to this

Looks like I got my banks confused last night in who the Mets were naming their field after. It is Citibank and not Chase like I claimed. The Diamondbacks are named after Chase. My bad. Interesting though that none of the so called Mets fans on here last night caught on to that. Really makes one wonder how much of a Mets fan they really are. But, of course, there was the ever mysterious drive by blogger called D who corrected me, whomever that is.

Also, have to mention this thing from Mushnick in the Post taking Joe Morgan to task yet again:

*Joe Morgan remains relentless in providing expertly stated nonsense. Last night, during Mets-Cubs on ESPN, Luis Castillo stuck with a windblown popup, making a nice catch. But Morgan explained the play as the result of Castillo being unfamiliar with the winds in Wrigley Field because, “Castillo has played his entire career in the American League.” But Castillo played 10 years in the NL, all with the Marlins. In fact, it was Castillo who hit the infamous fly that spectator Steve Bartman caught - before Moises Alou could - in the 2003 NLCS at Wrigley. Last season, with the Twins, was his first in the AL. In the top of the fifth, Morgan’s partner, Jon Miller, noted that Castillo has played before in Wrigley. Morgan said nothing. *

Hilarious!

By Will

August 6, 2007 9:10 AM | Link to this

Paladin, Man i am not remotely trying to “rationalize” the wild card. I am simply stating that the standings are looking pretty managable right now. Do i think the Braves have a better chance at winning the WC, then the NL East? Aboslutely. That being said, it is in the Braves hands to do something about their NL East defecit this week. Alot of us Braves fans seem so have the attitude of the team being chased, but the bottom line is the braves are the chasers. Every six game stretch the Mets/Braves play and the Mets maintain their lead is a victory for the team who is in first place.

By Braveheart

August 6, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this

Ron H, 2 of 3 is nice and all and probably the most realistic hope but does nothing to gain ground. At some point, so many of us all need to stop being so patient and coddling and start demanding excellence.

For 3 months now, we’ve all been saying, they’re gonna make their move, they’re gonna make their move, well when the heck is it coming already? 2 of 3 will not be making a move. A sweep will not only gain alot of ground but more importantly put alot of pressure on the Mets in that media market. The more pressure we put on them, the more that media market will start to eat the Mets alive and make the Braves job alot easier.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this

50 games left.

30-20 to win the Wild Card.

33-17 to win the NL East.

18 of the last 50 games are against the Mets and Phillies. 12-6 vs. those two teams and I can’t imagine us not making the playoffs.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this

Joe Morgan is a mouthy idiot! And the fact that he is still where he is speaks volumes about ESPN itself. Hell, they would probably put him in the booth for MNF if they thought they could get away with it. In that regard, they “fired” Theisman and he, compared to Morgan, is an astute, articulate, rocket-scientist.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

Braveheart _ Good morning. Joe Morgan is brutal. The guy comes across like he does no prep work at all. Also, How about his line about Rickey henderson being the greatest leadoff hitter he’s ever seen. He’s OK to have that opinion which I happen to agree with but the guy didn’t even mention Pete Rose, the all time leader in hits , who he hit behind for many years! I’m not saying Rose was a better lead off hitter but shouldn’t Morgan at least throw his name in the hat for the viewers to think about?

By Anders

August 6, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

Efrim While I think those numbers are very difficult to reach, especially the 33 - 17 mark(.660 ball!), I do think your math is close for what will be required for the Braves to reach the playoffs.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

Efrin I am not a naysayer(see my earlier to Will)but I am a little sceptical of you guys that predict the W-L “that it will take” to win the East. I think that y’all forget that the Muts have come out of their stupor and are winning at about the same rate as the Braves. You may be right about what it will take to get in as the wild card, but I think it is going to take a bit more to win the East. See Ron H’s earlier about the need for a real winning streak and not this 2 or 3 up and one(or more)back.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this

Oh My God, I’m agreeing with Anders!! Someone must have slipped a dumb pill in with my morning meds. :-)

By Will

August 6, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

I agree with all Joe Morgan is awful, and a Braves hater. I also laughed last night when Jon Miller was talking about Derek Lee and then he said the other Lee, Carlos Lee who the Brewers signed in the offseason and went on for a second about Carlos Lee being on the Brewers. Its too bad he signed with the Astros in the offseason, or Jon M. would have been right.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this

Paladin - In addition to your comments about the Mets coming out of stupor the Mets play the Marlins, Pirates and Nationals in the next three series after the Barves this week. If the Braves don’t win at least 2 out of 3 this week I think it would be prudent to turn your sights on to the Wild card. Plus the Mets don’t leave the eastern time zone for the rest of the season. All these little things add up.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this

Paladin

92-70 should be enough.

All

Hold on to your butts.

Due to Monday’s day off Brian Lawrence, who was scheduled to start Wednesday’s game against Atlanta, will now start Friday against the Marlins.

The Mets will go with Oliver Perez in Tuesday’s series opener, followed by Orlando Hernandez on Wednesday and John Maine on Thursday.

I’m glad to see John Maine against the Braves. Lets stick him. Finally, the Mets are taking the Braves series seriously. No excuses from Mets fans. Your bringing the big gunz out.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this

Anders

We go to St Louis. I really don’t think leaving the eastern time zone is a big deal unless you are going to the west coast. Which the Braves won’t do until October.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

Will I used to think of Joe Morgan as a Mets hater and then I talked with a Red Sox fan who viewed him as Red Sox hater etc.. I think he comes off that way with a lot of teams because he’s unprepared and is many times wrong which really irratates knowledgable fans. Plus he has a real sense of arrogance about him. He’s in a select club and we’re not, therefore we’re idiots and whatever he says is gospel. Instaed of getting mad at him I now laugh at him and discount his remarks. The other moron with him in the booth is just a schill.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 6, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this

I don’t think it is out of the realm of possibility for the Braves to go at least 30-20 over their last 50 games. Mets fans say it is impossible because they want it to be.

With this offense all James, Carlyle, and Cormier have to do is keep the game close. The offense can handle the rest. Of course, Hudson and Smoltz will pitch more gems than not and the offesne won’t have to work as hard in their starts.

If you look at the starting pitching as a whole over the last month it hasn’t been that bad. The only starts that really killed them were the last two by Reyes. All the extra inning games lately have contributed to their being tired as anything. Yates and Soriano in particular have hit a wall. If they can catch their second wind (and it appears that they are beginning to do exactly just that), this pitching staff will be okay.

I think the problems of this pitching staff have been a tad overstated. This team has just lost games they should’ve one and the pitching staff isn’t necessarily to blame. Case in point. That game vs. Houston the other night. Yes, Soriano blew the game but the Braves had numerous opportunities after that to win and didn’t. The bullpen actually pitched very well that night after Soriano’s implosion.

By Chase

August 6, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this

BRAVEHEART and others…

I don’t think we “HAVE TO SWEEP THE METS”

2 out of 3 only gains one game for sure

BUT.. we’ll still play them 6 more times! And if we win 2 out of 3 each time that will knock 3 games off the lead right there!

By Lee in South GA

August 6, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

The Arizona Diamondbacks are causing an uproar in the N.L. West also which in turn is causing a domino effect on the Wild card race. The Diamondbacks just swept the Dodgers, whom many consider the best N.L. West team. I believe the Wild card winner will go down to the last week. No way to tell how many games it will take to win it. The Diamondbacks have actually looked the most impressive of all the N.L. teams since the all-star break. The Braves need to win series play between teams and let everything else fall into place. This is what brought them success through the year.

By Shaun

August 6, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

Anders,

Actually the Braves only leave the Eastern time zone once, the last series of the season against Houston.

Also, the Braves play a lot of games against the worse pitching/defensive teams in the league. Cincinnati, Houston, St. Louis, Florida and Philadelphia are all in the top 10 in runs allowed. Even if you adjust for ballpark, these teams are still below average in ERA. These are the games the Braves must win.

Only San Fran, New York and Milwaukee have better than league average ERAs, adjusted for ballpark. The Braves have to hang in there against those teams and go on a tear against the rest.

I do agree the Mets probably have the edge for the NL East. But the Braves are right in the Wild Card race. I don’t think any of the Wild Card contenders have the overall talent the Braves have. Hopefully that will translate into the Braves winning and other teams losing as much as they should.

One thing that is a concern is the Braves’ relievers have thrown the fourth most innings in baseball. The bullpen ERA is 11th best in baseball.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

Gone.

By Ron H

August 6, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this

braveheart, as somebody else stated, if we go 2/3 on the phillies and mets the rest of the season, we will be fine as long as we don’t play .500 ball the rest of the way…we need to win most of the series from now till the end of the year…what more can you ask? the braves don’t have a team that can win 6 in a row…we don’t have the pitching. if we win 2 games out of every series from now until the end of the year, i think we win the division. i think that’s doable. we just can’t go on another losing streak of 3 games or more…

gooo braves!

By Anders

August 6, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

Efrim - I would agree about St. Louis not being a big deal to travel too. My point wasn’t about the Braves it was about how the Mets don’t have any real long stretches of playoff teams left or any travel difficulties. It’s gonna make it that much harder to catch them.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

Shaun - Plus the mets play their last 14 against the Nats and Marlins. The Braves have Milwaukee and Philly 7 out of their last 10. Both those teams will probably fighting for their playoff lives as well. Tougher road to hoe.

By Shaun

August 6, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this

Lee,

The Diamondbacks certainly could break through because their offense seems more talented than they have shown thus far.

They are last in the league in OPS if you make the adjustments for ballpark and league. They are next to last in runs scored per game.

The D-Backs are 10 games over their expected record based on runs scored and allowed. Even if you are extremely skeptical of judging a team based on runs scored and allowed, you have to admit ten games is a big difference. That doesn’t bode well (if you are a D-Backs fan) for what the D-Backs are likely to do the rest of the way (unless their offense does A LOT more than it’s done all season).

Prediction: San Diego will pull away from the rest of the West pretty soon. The D-Backs will eventually fall behind the Dodgers.

By Big Easy

August 6, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

You know, as much as Andruw has ticked me off this year, especially walking back to the dugout smirking after yet another strikeout, something struck me while watching the games this weekend, when he was out of the lineup. Both days, he was on the top step of the dugout, right beside Bobby, cheering everyone on. Something I hadn’t really seen out of Andruw before. Maybe I’d missed it before, but it seems like these guys are really starting to play as a unit, not a collection of 9 guys playing for themselves.

By ebineezer

August 6, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

What is Corkey doing in a Braves uniform?? The old saying goes something like - even a blind hog will find an acorn every now and then. That is Corkey’s batting. Surely there is a catcher out there in the minors somewhere that can hit over .200 and actually poke a ball into the gap for a double more than once every 3 years. The Braves would be better served with a backup catcher that can at least hit a little even if his defense is a little weak. The backup stands to make more appearances as a pinch hitter late in games than actually playing behind the plate anyway. The Braves have 2 on with 2 out, down a run in the 9th inning and the pitchers spot coming up, Corkey to the rescue! I don’t think so.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

Shaun,

Do you really believe in the Padres? With that offense?

Looking around the league at the teams that are in this wild card race baffles me. The Braves have, by far, the most talent in this race. There really is no reason for us not to win the wild card, at least. I understand our #3 starter is a 5+ inning pitcher, our #4 is a journeyman, and we currently haven’t settled on a #5, but this team has enough arms, and more than enough pop to go 30-20 the rest of the way and win the wild card.

By Will

August 6, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

Ron H, I have to disagree about winning 2 out of 3 will definitely win the Braves the division. And you say the Braves dont have a team that can win 6 games in a row? I actually agree with you on that, and that is what scares me cause they are gonna need to put together a winning streak like that to pass the Mets. Also, that sucks if Perez is pitching at any point in the series this week, Braves cant seem to get over the hump against him, but i guess this week would be a good time to start.

By Lee in South GA

August 6, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

Shaun

Almost would prefer one of those teams to run away with the N.L. West (don’t really care who) and the other 2 completely knock one another out of Wild Card contention. This see-saw battle in that division is what concerns me about the other Wild Card coming out of it. I believe the Cub and Brewers will have to win their division outright for which team goes to post-season. Then again my opinion is just like Joe Morgan’s and I may not know what I am taking about either.

By TampaBrave

August 6, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

Why all this BS talk about Joe Morgan? I have never heard him say anything that is not true. We should hold him in high regard as he wasted the Dodgers for us back in 82.

Yunel shows lots of promise at SS. He made plays that ER would not reach. ER still has the better bat, at least currently.

Nice work from Chipper.

Great work Corky. Was disappointed to see BC pinch hit for him.

Diaz-Keep on rockin

To DOB

I heard the commentators mention that Smoltz was pitching in pain. Has something else happened to JS? Last I heard, his infalmmation had subsided.

By Jersey Gil

August 6, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

DOB…Question for you… If the Braves help there Latin Player to learn English…..Sometime ago a lot of organization have a kind of program to the latino player learn to get use to the life and culture of the USA. In the Case of Escobar he is in this country as a refuge from cuba. A lot of cuban people lern quik the english because they know if they learned is more income they generate in sponsorship. Also i saw the other night that he got some kind of trouble comunicating with Bobby in the doug out.

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

Patrick, I went to the game with my brother and his family, who were in town for the weekend. We picked a miserable one to go to: hot, humid, no breeze, and a rare bad night for Smoltz. Oh, well….

Gil, yes, I’m going to both cities, NY and Philly. And yes, from covering ‘ball as long as I have, I’m quite familiar with the NE heat/humidity nightmares. Nothing like sitting at Veterans Stadium on a horribly hot day, and the smells coming from whatever it located next door, the sewage treatment place or whatever it was/is. Or maybe that was just the Vet, period.

And you’re right, for all the talk of “Hotlanta” (which nobody from here actually calls it, by the way), it’s much hotter during a heat wave in NY, Philly, St. Louis, KC, Cincy, Chicago….

By MEB

August 6, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

The two great things about ESPN Sunday Night Baseball are being broadcast in HD and the comedy that is Joe Morgan. I listen regularly to ESPN Radio broadcasts that have Dan Shulman on play-by-play and Dave Campbell as the color guy. Professional and informative but they don’t have the nutty entertainment value of Jon Miller and Joe Morgan.

By TampaBrave

August 6, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

I love KJs bat, but I haven’t seen him make a decent ATTEMPT and a ball up the middle. My daughter, who plays 2B in high school softball, thinks she could teach him a thing or two. When is the last time he laid out for one. I can recall a few times where, if he just knocked it down, would have saved some runs from scoring. I hope he stays around but in the OF. Didn’t Renteria play 2nd for the Marlins and Cardinals?

By Will

August 6, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

I also say its hard to believe in the Padres winning the NL West. Unless they start hitting, i actually think they will finish 3rd.

Tampa Brave, Do you honestly think Smoltz is not pitching in pain at all times?? He is a battler and a gamer.

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

TampaBrave, nothing else has happened to Smoltz. It’s just lingering soreness, if anything. And he’s said the shoulder wasn’t an issue last couple times out, so I don’t know what you’re referring to, the comments you’re referring to, other than speculation on the part of announcers probably wondering why Smoltz struggled so on Friday.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this

TampaBrave

Escobar is going to have to develop some more pop. The Braves might want to change his stance a bit. The Blue Jays did it with Alex Rios and it worked wonders. I don’t understand why Escobar hasn’t hit for more power. He looks to be a well built guy. One thing is for sure, he has pretty good range and an absolute cannon at SS.

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

Coach, I’m not going to spend the next 50 games backing away from anything. I’ve said all along, since before spring training, that I think this Braves team is going to win the division. When you and a few others were trying to whip up the “it’s hopeless” sentiments during the five-game skid, I said these things can change quickly and that, as unlikely as it seemed then, it still wasn’t a done deal and the Braves could still win it. That was the low point, long before the trades or even the rumors of Teixeira. You know, back when some would have had the Braves “blow it up” (as if they’ve ever done that in the past 15 years, or would do that).

Anyway, I still think they’ll win it. I’ll let you and others ride the rollercoaster from game to game, letting immediate results determine how you feel about a team’s chances over a 162-game schedule. I’ll stay with my pick, especially given the Mets’ lackluster performance this season.

Oh, and yes, if it’ll make you feel better, we’ll grant you “expert” status. There, done.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

DOB

What are your thoughts on this week? I mean, they have to go 4-2, right?

By DAP

August 6, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

joe morgan is definetly an idiot and says ALOT of things wrong EVERY TIME he does a broadcast. anyone who doesnt realize that probably isnt paying attention to what he says, which is actually a good idea.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

DOB

..especially given the Mets’ lackluster performance this season.

I understand they aren’t that good. But they are still 63-48, 15 games over .500. That isn’t too shabby, and if the Braves owned that record, I sure wouldn’t call their performance to date “lackluster”. Overall, I think you are right. The Braves can win the division, but they really can’t afford to go 2-4 this week. They need to keep winning series. Which is something they haven’t done consistently since the second half began.

If they don’t make the playoffs, they need not look further than the last 23 games against terrible competition. 12-11 in that stretch. Mets went 15-9 versus better foes.

By TampaBrave

August 6, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

Will

Nuance my friend. I know he has the sore shoulder and yes I know he trys to pitch thru the pain. My question was pretty basic. I can’t remember who said it, but the comments they made about Smoltz were over and above what we all know about JS. It caused me more concern than usual. If it was on TBS, that’s where it came from. If not, then MLB.com telecast. I came away thinking he might have to miss more time.

But yes I know those things you stated. What did you think of Escobar?

Did you catch the Renteria at 2B comment?

By Lew

August 6, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

Efrim-I agree, a 4-2 against the Mets and Phillies would work pretty well for me. 5-1 would be even nicer. I have a feeling there will be no pitching duels, however, unless Hudson is on. Not so sure I would mess with Yunel’s approach at the plate, though. You can afford a couple of players that hit well for average and no pop-I’d be skeptical of having Yunel though AND replacing Andruw with Blanco. That would be two positions with no power-not good. Do you see a trend by BC to go more with a running team next year? He’s got Yunel and Willie Harris and is letting the guys attempt steals much more than in the past. If he brings up Lillibridge (even as a bench player), next year, that would certainly continue the trend towards more speed.

By Rumpelstilzchen

August 6, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

I’m new here on this Mets blog, just a small dude, but I can probably kick all you’s a*******e$!

Tommy Glavine should thank all those umpires over the years, that called all those pitches that were 2 feet off the plate as strikes, thereby enabling him to get to 300 wins, without those liberal umps, he couldn’t have done it! Really, he could not have done it.

Will Rump be granted expert status too now?

By Renegator

August 6, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

Any chances the Braves can actually hit O. Perez on Tuesday? So far they are 0 - 3 against him this year.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

Lew - Good point about speed. I’m sure you saw what the Mets did last night to the Cubs. The Cubs looked like they didn’t even know stealing was allowed!! Reyes 50+ steals, even Wright has 25 or so, and watch out for shawn Green to steal the occasional but usually important base. I don’t think McCann shines in this area. They’ll look to take advantage, To be fair the Mets catchers have been weak behind the plate this year also. I just don’t know ebnough about the Braves running game to know if they can take advantage.

By Yars

August 6, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

A nice 9 or 10 game winning streak would put the Braves in a excellent position. I really hope it doesn’t go down to the last weekend of the season to determine if Atlanta makes the playoffs. I agree with DOB & some of you in that the Mets aren’t too impressive this season. Sure, they just won 2 out of 3 against the Cubs, but the Cubs aren’t a threat to anyone. I still see the Brew Crew winning the NL Central.

By Rumpelstilzchen

August 6, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Rump likes the catcher called Corky to catch the games, so when Wickman comes in the game to pitch, the announcers can say, “and now the pitch from Porky to Corky, juuuusssssstt a bit outside!”

Today I bake, tomorrow I brew,

Today for one

Tomorrow for two

Little knows my royal dame

Rumpelstilzchen is my name!

By Anders

August 6, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

DOB - The Mets have been anything but lackluster since the All Star break. I agree they were the two months before, but that’s behind them now and neither the Braves or Phillies took advantage of it. If anything they’re finding their groove and to be honest with you this is the opposite of last year when they sprinted through July and then faded some. Most of their hitters are having better second halfs than firsts this season. The key is Delgado, if he gives them anything they’ll be alright, if he goes back to form I think they run away and hide with the division. Couldn’t tell you which way it will go though. He still shows huge holes in his swing. Especially in and up.

By TampaBrave

August 6, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

Efrim

I don’t know about changing his stance. That’s something he’d have to be open to. Sometimes it works, sometimes a disaster. I think he has pretty good pop. I also think he needs to keep playing consistently to get in rythym.

DAP

You may be right that I haven’t heard what you are enuciating about JM. But I ususally listen pretty well and haven’t heard anyting I would refute or anything that makes me think he’s bias in any way.

By Ron Roberts

August 6, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

The pitching match-ups in the Mets’ series are about all we could ask for, I’d say.

The Philly series has me a bit queasy, though. Chuck (fly-ball out) James in a homer-friendly bandbox…yikes. Lance Cormier fresh outta rehab…scary. Then Carlyle again? Let’s hope his elbow’s alright, right?

My gut says 3-3, but our offense is up to the task of being better than the Mets and the Phillies, both. Besides, the Philly park’s gonna be as friendly to us as it is to them. I just hope we don’t go in with the Ryan Klesko approach from our younger hitters. It’s tantalizing to wanna hit nothing but homers, but we need base-runners, too.

By Lew

August 6, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

Anders-I think last night’s game hinged on the injury to Soriano. If he hadn’t pulled up lame and ended up scoring, you’re looking at a completely different game. I’m happy for Glavine, though. I’ve only ever seen two shutouts at the ballpark in my many years of watching baseball. One was a five hitter by Art Mahaffey of the Phils against St. Louis when I was a kid. The second was a 7 hitter against the Expos in Montreal by Glavine-I think it’s was a Labor Day-maybe 01 or 02. He signed a ball for me after that game. I hate that he left and hate that it happened the way it did, but I still have fond memories of his days in Hotlanta and all those wins he racked up for us. He deserves the 300 and a bid to the HOF-It will be as a Brave that he goes in, though. You do realize that, don’t you? Rump=Your point on the outside pitches is somewhat well taken. However, I aways looked at that trend as the Umpires evening the playing field with all those juiced bats and boomers taking the offense to stupid places. At least they were consistent in their calls and the hitters never had to worry about any pitch above the waist. I think it just added balance that otherwise wouldn’t have been there. You have to admit, though, Tommy could hit that exact spot in his sleep-time after time and year after year.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

Lew,

I really think the Braves are going to go outside the organization for a CF next year. Blanco doesn’t seem to be the answer in center. No power. Lillibridge would be fine, but they haven’t moved him to CF yet in the minors, so I am guessing they don’t see him there. I wouldn’t be shocked to see the Braves deal Brandon Jones this offseason, move Kelly to left, Escobar to 2nd and keep Edgar.

LF Johnson SS Renteria 3B Jones 1B Teixiera C McCann RF Francouer 2B Escobar CF Free Agent/Trade

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

Yars

They won 2 out of 3 against the Brewers as well.

By ncscoots

August 6, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

A nice 9 or 10 game winning streak would put the Braves in a excellent position

No kidding. Any one of the three teams in the NL East who can do that can pretty much hang the division flag. Mets, Braves, and Phillies could all go either way: a hot streak to salt away the division, or a cold streak to “wait til next year”. Win series, boys, and, first thing you know, you’ve gone 10 out of 15. Maintaining an even keel is more important than a winning streak.

By TampaBrave

August 6, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

Rumpelstilzchen

Nobody gets 300 wins without serious skills. Sure he got some calls, so what. They all do. SCOREBOARD scumbag!!!!!!!!!

To All

I love Tommy G but will root against him for the remainder of the year.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

LEW - That’s a bit of a stretch saying last nights game hinged on the Soriano injury. I think he would most likely been safe at third but there were two outs already. It’s not like they had a huge rally going. The Mets out hit, pitched and ran the Cubs last night. Come on -be real

By Shaun

August 6, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

I believe in the Padres because of their run differential, which is mostly due to their pitching. They’ve allowed the fewest runs in baseball. And even if you adjust for their ballpark, they still have the lowest ERA relative to the rest of the NL. Yes, their offense is terrible but not as terrible as the D-Backs’ offense has been.

By Yars

August 6, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

The Braves are in a hypnotic state of mind when they face Perez. I’m more fascinated than amazed when Perez takes the mound against Atlanta. He has that lineup in the palm of his hand. Let’s just hope that changes tomorrow. If the Braves can somehow pull off an upset tomorrow, I will then start thinking sweep.

By Lew

August 6, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

Anders-Yes, but he also hit that ball real well and may well have provided considerably more offense throughout the game-not to mention the emotional factor of losing their best hitter-quite possibly for a longer duration. Whatever. Tommy won and got his 300th. In the end, all else is just over analysis. And remember-you can’t spell analysis without anal.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Lew - BTW, yes I realize Glavine goes in as a Brave s he should. So will Maddux. Believe me he is clearly viewed as a rental player up here even after all this time. Nice enough guy but zero personality and waiting at the altar all last winter for Schuerholz to show up didn’t help his standing with Mets fans.

BTW, I think Braves fans can see why Minaya didn’t want to get fleeced by giving up Milledge for a set up man from the Nats. Milledge is raw talent but getting better all the time. His value on the field or in trade will only go up. He even cut his hair and lost the jewelry. He’s fially getting it. Not a bad 8 hitter - don’t you think?

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

All,

Don’t be shocked to see BC throw a lineup of the following against Oliver Perez on Tuesday night:

SS Escobar LF Diaz 3B Jones 1B Teixiera CF Jones RF Francouer 2B Woodward C McCann

Johnson struggles against “tough” lefties. So does McCann, but I can’t imagine BC hitting Corky Miller to open up this crucial series. Just to clarify, “tough” lefties means pitchers like Dontrelle Willis or Oliver Perez. Pitchers with wicked sliders. Lefties like Tom Glavine or Chuck James throw a lot of change-ups and fastballs.

By Rumpelstilzchen

August 6, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave who designated you as blog $#!thole?

By Chuck James is solid until the 6th!! (Formerly Steve-O)

August 6, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Being a Tri-State area denizen, I will attend all 6 games with my Chipper jersey being relentlessly annoying for all of you who cannot attend. I am going in……………………..

By Will

August 6, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Tampa, I really like Escobar, they obviously did not include him in any trade packages for a reason. I am actually not that concerned about him not hitting all that many homeruns, if you have a shortstop that hits for average and plays D you are gonna be fine. I wasnt even concerned when Renteria went down a few nights ago cause i knew Escoar would fill in admirably, not to say that i dont want Renteria back asap.

By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist

August 6, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

to those bloggers who offer nothing but doom and gloom for the current braves season, journalist jimmy smith offers this parable:

a family had twin boys whose only resemblance to each other was their looks. if one felt it was too hot, the other thought it was too cold. if one said the tv was too loud, the other claimed the volume needed to be turned up. opposite in every way, one was an eternal optimist, the other a doom & gloom pessimist.

just to see what would happen, on the twins’ birthday, their father loaded the pessimist’s room with every imaginable toy and game. the optimist’s room he loaded with horse manure.

that night the father passed by the pessimist’s room and found him sitting amid his new gifts crying bitterly.

“why are you crying?” the father asked.

“because my friends will be jealous, I’ll have to read all these instructions before I can do anything with this stuff, i’ll constantly need batteries, and my toys will eventually get broken.” answered the pessimist twin.

passing the optimist twin’s room, the father found him dancing for joy in the pile of manure. “what are you so happy about?” he asked.

to which his optimist twin replied, “there’s got to be a pony in here somewhere!”

the moral of this story is that bloggers must look for the pony. and while doing so, must dance through some objectionable posts that may hide the pony.

now, baseball … whither pete orr? imagine pete orr in center field at the ted. thorman in left. pete orr in center. chino cadahia in right. and what is bobby’s nickname for chino? cannot be chinny. right? too many chins already. oh, the humanity! just needs to work out a little. maybe go to the gym with grinch. babe magnet. too heavy to take up on the roof.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

Dodgers offense is pretty bad as well. Don’t you think the Braves have more talent than these teams? We should win the wild card.

By Kentavo

August 6, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

I hope Andruw’s elbow is still barking. Having him in the middle of the lineup kills rallies game in and game out. Too bad Cox doesn’t realize it.

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Efrim, others, by “lackluster” I’m referring to the Mets’ performance in relation to expectations. You telling me that, going into the season, you wouldn’t have expected the Mets to run away with the division given the performance of the Braves in the first half? Come on. Most folks seem to think this was a potential 100-win Mets team. Or most everyone, at least. Even with their rotation, they looked like they should win 100 games because of their offense.

Granted, they are 15-9 since the break, playing better. But it’s pitching, especially bullpen, that’s carried them much of the season. And I hardly think 3-1/2 weeks since the break is a great barometer of a team. Let’s look at the whole body of work (or maybe we should point out the Nationals are 15-8 since the break, with a 3.63 ERA to the Mets’ 3.65 ERA since the break; does that mean Nats are the team now?)

Braves are better in most offensive categories including average, OBP, runs, doubles, slugging, tied for homers … and that’s with Teixeira having been in the lineup less than a week.

And with RISP, for those who dig the stat, Braves lead NL at .293, Mets are tied with two others for sixth at .266.

By Rumpelstilzchen

August 6, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand the infatuation with ex-Braves players, especially after they go to another team for a couple more bucks, especially when it’s the gutter rat Mets!

By Anders

August 6, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Shea will be hopping tomorrow night. First they’ll have a ceremony for Glavine which will get things started. How ironic that the Braves will have to watch along with their fans. I wonder if they will participate in some way? I wouldn’t doubt it as they are a classy organization. Otherwise maybe they wait until the Mets are in Atlanta later this year so their fans can salute him. Perez can go either way. He can ride the wave of energy and be lights out or he can lose his release point and walk the park. I’ll be on the edge of my seat - that’s for sure. I’m very suprised evne with his record against the Braves how in the head of Braves fans he is.

By DAP

August 6, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

i hope everyone in the lineup is back healthy on tuesday, not including renteria, obviously, who i hope returns with a vengence when healthy. we are going to need our offense clicking on all cylinders.

ollie perez has more to worry about with this braves lineup than he did earlier this seaon.

the braves have a very different look than they did last time perez pitched against them. hopefully this will enable to braves to put some runs on the board against perez, and hopefull get him out of the game before the 9th.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Just back for a few moments before the ole lunch bell rings. Yes, we have “early-bird” lunch, too. A couple of comments…

TampaBrave Somehow it doesn’t surprise me that you like Joe Morgan. Your negativism, and his, compliments each other.

Rosalyn Please give us an update on Jimma’s take on the Tex acquisition and will he be invited to Plains for one of y’all’s rousing softball games and dinna-on-the-ground? Or do y’all still have those since you can no longer lay Billy, prone, behind the plate to act as backstop. And, Ruth can no longer give the invocation—before every inning. Anyway, it would be wonderful to “hear” from you. It has been a long time since we had any humor on here.

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Efrim, why would I say they “have to go 4-2”? What if they go 3-3. What if they lose two of three — I know, horrors, reach for the razor blades — vs. the Mets and 2-1 vs. Phillies. What, the Mets gain one game in that series, then maybe the Mets lost two of three to whomever they’re facing next. I mean, I just don’t think it’s a must-win situation with 50 games left. Sure, losing five of six or being swept by the Mets would hurt, probably hurt a lot. But what’s the huge difference between 4-2 and 3-3?

Oh, and DAP, everyone but Edgar should be back. Actually, only Andruw’s been out. Chipper was struggling, but had huge game Sunday.

Beltran’s on the DL for the Mets, and that’s probably even bigger for them as Edgar’s loss is for Braves, given Beltran’s stunning success against the Braves in the past, and also given Edgar’s replacement (Escobar).

By Will

August 6, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

Anders, Did you like that play Milledge made on Saturday late in the game when he semi-casually ran in on a ball and then just gloved the air as the ball went right through him. That was highly impressive!

By TampaBrave

August 6, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

Yars

Tex will be the change that’s been needed. We’ve gotten him to bend, but not break. This time, he will break. He knows he has been living on borrowed time.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Anders

Not a bad 8 hitter at all. It is funny though that he takes no walks, yet Gary Cohen never brings that up when analyzing Milledge. He jumps all over Francouer whenever he comes to the plate about how his OBP hurts the team. Cohen sickens me. Best home run call in the business, but he couldn’t love the Mets more than he does. It shows and is very unprofessional.

By Lew

August 6, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Efrim-Dude, I’ll bet they won’t bring in an outside option. They will spend all available $$$ for pitching, pitching, and more pitching. There are too many cheap options available within the organization, Like moving Francoeuer to center and filling the corners with Diaz/Harris, Brandon Jones, Kelly Johnson or even Lillibridge or Blanco. Got to disagree with you on this one. Just too many other options at reasonable prices-Thorman, too for that matter (shudder). We need more pitching. You can’t disagree with that, I’m sure. Keep in mind what salaries are likely to escalate pretty radically in the offseason-for pitching in particular. We will jettison Andruw’s salary, but half of it goes to Hudson’s raise. Losing Wicky and even Renteria will add some wiggle room, but pitching will be outrageously expensive and we need someone top caliber. I really have serious doubts as to Smoltz’s longer term viability. The guy is unreal in his desire and ability, but he’s not getting any younger and he has health issues that will come home to roost-if they haven’t already. Chuck is better than most give him credit for-much better-but he’s been placed in the #3 role, when he is more well suited to #4. We need two more effective starters for next year. Hampton’s return, while it would be very welcome, is unrealistic to count on.

By ncscoots

August 6, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Yars, different lineup for Perez to face this time around. Those first three starts saw beaucoup ABs by Wilson, Woodward, Prado, a few by Saltalamacchia. This time around he gets Teixeira and Escobar replacing the bulk of those ABs, plus a hot Kelly Johnson, and McCann coming on (even though those are lefty-on-lefty). He might still beat them, but it won’t be the first three starts redux.

By Will

August 6, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

This Mets series is a must win at least 2 of 3, absolutely no doubt about it. If they go 1-2 against the Mets and then 2-1 against the Phillies and gain a game back on the Mets, it will just be ANOTHER six game stretch where the Braves gained nothing. Braves are the chasers, not the chased!! What is so hard to understand about that??

By TexasBrave

August 6, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

As much as I want to keep Edgar, realistically I think they will use him to get a good #3 Starting Pitcher or even an #2. Escobar is showing he deserves to be our everyday SS and as much as I would like to see Kelly move back to the OF, the team will probably leave him at 2B.

As for Center Field, I really don’t see a good option in our minor league system, so we either sign a free agent (Tori Hunter perhaps) or we will use the farm kids to go and get one.

By Rumpelstilzchen

August 6, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Amen brother Paladin, second that thought, no fun blog indeed, too many self-proclaimed experts, and snobbish, overbearing Mets fans!

Bout as much fun as an abcessed tooth!

By Yars

August 6, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Efrim….I can’t see Bobby starting Woodward at 2B tomorrow over KJ. Bobby can shock us at times though. We’ll see. KJ has no problem hitting LH pitching. Can someone inform all of us what KJ’s batting average is against LH pitching this season?

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

DOB

4-2 and 3-3 is a one game difference. Obviously in the grand scheme of things, that doesn’t matter.

But the Braves went 12-11 in the last 23 games. If they went 15-8, a lot of people would be predicting a division crown right now. Even my negative a*. 3 game difference over a longer stretch. There is a difference between a 4-2 stretch against your divisional rivals in August, and a .500 showing. Not just in the standings. Mentally, to the players and the fans. You have to be able to see that.

By bravesfan

August 6, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

DOB do you think this lineup will hit Perez better cause he has really mowed us down this whole year?

By Shaun

August 6, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

Dodgers offense as been the best among NL West contenders. And their pitching has been pretty good, too. It’s not just about how good or bad a team’s offense or pitching/defense is, but also about how good and how bad their offense or pitching/defense is.

The Dodgers run differential is better than the Diamondbacks’.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 6, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

Agree with the poster that we probably need to go 12-6 in the remaining games w/NY and Philly to be in a solid position for the postseason (either as division champ or wild card).

A 4-2 or better start at that run this week would sure help.

Let’s hope Tex’s presence in the lineup will reverse the spell that Oliver Perez has held over the Braves.

By Rumpelstilzchen

August 6, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

jimmy smith, ugandan journalist—the code is “shut-ins”…I repeat, “shut-ins”…

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 6, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

I realize the Mets are 15 games over .500, but it isn’t that impressive of a mark. Anyone who objectively looks at that team can see that they are not playing to their potential. This team is beatable. The Angels are the same way. They are 16 games over .500 I believe but who believes that team will win a World Series? Not many. I said it last year and I will say it again. The Mets are a product of the league they play in. If they face a team with really good pitching or who gets really good pitching they will get taken out. What happened last year in the NLCS? They faced a team that pitched well and they lost. If the Braves can get six innings from James the rest of the way and Carlyle keeps doing what he is doing this Braves team will take it down to the wire. And, don’t any Mets fan start with the “if” argument because you are banking your WS hopes on Pedro Martinez. He is the ultimate “if”.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

Efrim Milledge’s role is no where near what Francouer’s is on the Braves. And he hasn’t shown anywhere near the talent or overall consistency yet either so I think if Cohen expects more from Frenchy. I agree with you that he bleeds which ever Met color you want to choose. I wouldn’t classify him as unprofessional though, but you probably would be better off getting an unbiased opinion on that.

By DAP

August 6, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

efrim i like your idea of batting diaz 2nd. i like kelly johnson batting lower in the order, and i hope he doesnt hit 2nd again. diaz is a hitting machine and is on base all the time. he oughta be in the two-hole.

DOB thanx… you probbaly wont know til tomorrow, but will andruw be back? and how are chipper’s hands?

By bravesfan

August 6, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

O yeah the Mets are so scared of our lineup they changed they pitchers for the series. This is off this Mets official site. • Tuesday: Mets (Oliver Perez, 10-7, 3.00 ERA) vs. Braves (Buddy Carlyle, 6-3, 4.20) • Wednesday: Mets (Orlando Hernandez, 7-4, 3.00) vs. Braves (John Smoltz, 10-6, 3.04), 7:10 p.m. ET
• Thursday: Mets (John Maine, 12-6, 3.27) vs. Braves (Tim Hudson, 12-5, 2.95), 12:10 p.m. ET

By Anders

August 6, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Will Raw young players make those types of mistakes. I never said he was Willie Mays nor did I say he would be an everyday player for the Mets, just that he had more upside than the slug reliever the Nats wanted to trade to the Mets. I’m not even sure randolph will play him tomorrow night. He may go with Anderson in center and let Milledge watch the first game of the series from the bench. Just a hunch. I think Willie wanted to get Anderson and easely two days in a row off with todays off day.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

Lew

I meant a cheap option such as Kenny Loften. Not saying Loften will be in a Braves uni next year, but a veteran CF. I really don’t think you should move Frenchy from RF. I don’t think he has the range needed in center anyways. As far as pitching is concerned, yes we do need at least one more starter. I can’t imagine who that would be or how we would get it. I really don’t want to trade Renteria, Escobar, or Kelly Johnson. Especially Kelly. Not sure how much Brandon Jones, Brent Lillibridge or Jo Jo Reyes would bring back in terms of a trade. Not to mention, how much the pitcher’s salary would be.

DOB

My last statement meant that the Braves need to make a statement. It would really help to go 4-2. In the grand scheme of things, none of this matters. The Braves could go on a 15 game win streak to end the season and win the NL East. I’d like to think no one would be waiting around for something like that to happen.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

The Phillies run differential is better than the D-Backs. Doesn’t mean the Phillies are a better team. Because they aren’t.

By TampaBrave

August 6, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

Rumpelstilzchen

Any a***** that comes on here and tries to s** on the accomplishments of esteemed braves players should expect no less. If you can’t contribute something worthwhile, get lost. In fact, if you want to call something undeserved, look no further than your 1986 World Series title, a gift only santa could bring.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

Anders

I live in the tri-state area, Michael Kaye and Gary Cohen are tough to listen too. Both have great home runs calls, but like the teams they call games for a little too much. I promise you Cohen will ask Ron Darling or Keith Hernandez why any Met pitcher would throw Frenchy a strike. It sickens me.

By TexasBrave

August 6, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

I with Efrim in that BC should put Diaz batting second and move Kelly down in the order or (and I shudder as I type this) put Woodward in. Woodward is 2 for 7 against Perez were KJ is O’fer 5. But Kelly is hitting lights out lately, so if you do put him in the line-up move him down in the order with Diaz 2nd behind Escobar.

By DAP

August 6, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

yars this season, kelly is hitting .283 (36 for 127) against lefties, with 12 extra base hits, 18 walks, and 15 RBIs. BUT hes 0-5 with 5 strikeouts against oliver perez this year. ouch. i think he’ll get the start anyways.

By TampaBrave

August 6, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

Paladin,

Where do you get that I am a negative? Certainly no more than the next guy. I feel positive about the Braves. I pounded the boards when it came to getting Tex, and against bitter opposition from most of the usuals. Now I’m ready to kick some Met a*.

By Ron Roberts

August 6, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

I gotta side w/those that think its important we’re the team beating the Mets, head-to-head, DO’H.

Nobody else is winning series against ‘em these days. They’re playing w/out Beltran now, and have been playing with a good chunk of the New Orleans Zephyrs outfield in their lineup awhile now, and they’re winning 2 of 3 in Milwaukee and Chicago. They’re doing no worse than splitting series, as far back as July 19th. Taking 3 of 4 in that Dodgers’ series on the road has turned their season around, I think.

They have home series with the Dodgers and Padres, and other than that, their toughest opposition is Atlanta and the Phillies.

I think anybody that’s going to catch the Mets is gonna be the team that beats ‘em, head-to-head and takes care of business against their lesser opponents.

That’s why losses like the extra-innings affairs of the last few weeks may come back to bite us. Losing to the Giants, Astros, and Reds is one thing; losing to ‘em when you were one clutch hit shy of winning those games just hurt that much more.

Is it too late? Obviously not; but I do think we have to fare better against the Mets than the Phillies. I think we’ll do no worse than 3-3 on this trip, but it’d be nice to go 4-2, 5-1 or sweep ‘em both, obviously. A step back on this roadtrip, to me, just about relegates us to wild card-only status.

But hell, I’ll take that; just get in. Wild card teams have won World Series, and I think we’re built to do that, so long as Smoltz and Hudson hold up.

By beachcomber

August 6, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

While sitting bored to tears at a Ray’s game yesterday (had to go - business commitment), I was thinking about Tommy G’s quest for 300. If it were any team but the Mets. Rooted much harder for Greg to get his 300th with the Cubbies.

But Glavine going to the Mets is akin to a guy going from the Bosox to the Yanks and you know what charming receptions they get from all those gracious Boston fans.

By Will

August 6, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Anders, That was totally embarrassing by Milledge, that was beyond a raw mistake, i have seen players loaf on balls, but Milledge got there in time he just grabbed at the air, it was hilarious. it was one play and its not like it matters that much, i just thought it was one of the worst plays i have seen in a long time.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Kelly should always bat lower in the order, but I just have a feeling BC won’t hit him against Oliver Perez. Perez struck him out like 3 times last time he faced him.

By the way, Kelly’s splits are as followed:

vs. Left: .283 BA/.818 OPS

VS. Right: .310 BA/ .934 OPS

Career vs. Oliver Perez: 0-5 with 5 strikeouts

Woodward will be in there. Not saying he should be, but BC will give his that start.

By bill

August 6, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

Beltran to be back Wed., not that will make much difference. 2 of 3 is a must. Can’t afford to get any further behind.

By atlfan

August 6, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

DOB when did they Mets change their pitchers for the Braves series?

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

Bill

Yes, Beltran will be back on Wednesday. Good thing we have Hudson and Smoltz going in those games.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

Efrim - Kay has a good home run call? It’s the most contived call in baseball. Even Yankee fans hate it. Did you know he didn’t use that call in the first few years he was with the Yanks? He wanted a signature so he made it up. As for the Mets announcers I have trouble listening to Hernandez. Absolutely loved him as a player but as an announcer he turns my stomach. His insights are good but he can be condescending and aloof. Plus his voice is well let’s just say you can tell he grew up in San Fran!!

By Anders

August 6, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

Efrim Where di you hear that Beltran is back on Wed. He’s due off the DL but I haven’t heard he’ll be playing. I’ll believe it when I see it. His history has been he won’t committ to playing until that day. The guy gets hurt taking the mail outof the mailbox.

By Lew

August 6, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

The Mets Fans keep pushing Pedro’s return as their salvation. Perhaps they are being overly optimistic. He threw under simulated conditions the other day, and it was described as “He didn’t feel very comfortable, at first”. His return is now set for maybe in September and they are not overly sure even then. He was throwing 85-86 MPH. That’s one unhatched chicken I damn well wouldn’t count on if I were a Mets’ fan (Thank God I’m not). He may only see two or three starts-if that many-and if he can’t heat it up more than the mid to upper 80’s, he will NOT be effective. So much for salvation. BTW-Maine has come back to earth as well.

By Will

August 6, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

I am gonna throw up if Bobby Cox puts Woodward in the lineup of any meaningful pennant race game. That is basically conceding an 0-4 out of one slot in the lineup. Although i do agree with many of you, it will happen, i would about stake my life on it.

By Lew

August 6, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

If Beltran’s oblique was torn, I’m not so sure he will be ready by Thursday. At the very least, as we saw with Chipper and his oblique strain last season, coming back too soon could be a mistake and lead to more time on the DL. While that scenario works for Braves fans, I’m not so sure the Mets would be happy with it.

By TampaBrave

August 6, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

What happened to Cormier? I don’t like the prospect of bring Smoltz back so soon after such a laboring start against the Rockies. Not being negative(Paladin), just logical. Everybody knows Smoltz will pitch til his arm falls off. Its up to BC to prevent that from happening. I think we can beat the Mets regardless of who pitches. We must keep JS in good condition or all of this is for naught.

By Lew

August 6, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Now Will-You know Woodward has hit several foul balls quite hard recently, don’t you? That should earn him a start in this important series. Have to keep him in good playing shape, don’t we?

By TampaBrave

August 6, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Will

Throwing up is better than being afraid to watch. :)

By Anders

August 6, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Lew - I don’t hear Met fans counting on Pedro’s return as salvation. He hasn’t pitched since last August. They went to game 7 of the NLCS without him. It can be done again. If he comes back and contributes anything it’s gravy. Look at the NY papers, other than when he throws occasionally it’s hardly talked about. Maybe you speaking out of fear?

By TampaBrave

August 6, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

beachcomber

How can you sit through a Ray’s game? Dude, try getting waterboarded insteaded. You’ll suffer the same, but at least you can get your hair washed.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Lew

Pedro won’t even get a start in the playoffs, if they make it. I wouldn’t say Maine has come back down to Earth. If the Braves light him up Thursday, I would worry if I were a Mets fan. Hopefully we take him apart, then the Mets would have to clone Oliver Perez to win a playoff series against us.

By Andee

August 6, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

I’m a Mets fan. But I’ll be nice, I promise. (Fellow Mets fans, please do get classy if you’re going to post on other teams’ boards. The Mets and their karma will thank you for it.)

According to today’s Daily News, since John Maine was knocked out early on Saturday, Randolph has decided he will pitch on Thursday instead of Brian Lawrence. So the starters for the series are Perez-El Duque-Maine. Just so’s you know. But maybe that’s better for y’all, since Maine has been a bit wobbly since the break.

I don’t know any Mets fan who regards Pedro’s return as anything but a complete unknown and anything they get from him this year as anything but a total bonus.

I also don’t know of any Mets fan who will breathe easy until they see a big old X in the standings next to the team’s name indicating that they’ve clinched. But then again the Mets fans I know aren’t lip diddlers. I guess that’s why.

As far as I’m concerned no lead is big enough against the Braves, especially since about two-thirds of the team has been DL-ed at some point during this year. I am always holding my breath and praying it doesn’t happen to Reyes and Wright, who are about the only two who haven’t been injured this year yet.

By Lew

August 6, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Anders-Apparently you haven’t been listening to the Mets’ fans who show up on our blog-even MetroDude. Pedro is constantly thrown out as why the Mets will win. Fear? No, I doubt it. I don’t think he will be effective even if he does come back. He hasn’t been all that great since he left Boston, anyway-certainly not last season and doubtful he will ave much to give anytime soon, if ever. If he doesn’t return until September, then he’s blown for the playoffs, too. As far as it being wishful thinking-Dude, I got that info directly from the Mets’ Very Own MLB Website (you noticed, perhaps, that I used quotation marks?). It is NOT made up. Go check for yourself.

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Mets just made it official: Maine pitching Thursday, Hernandez moved up to Wednesday, Lawrence out.

Pitching matchups just got a little tougher for Braves. That’s three solid starters going for Mets, with ERAs of 3.00, 3.00, 3.27.

By Lew

August 6, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

Efrim-Check Maine’s last five starts. On July 5 he had a 2.71 ERA-it is now 3.27. In his past five starts he has pitched 24.2 innings and given up 16 ER. His last start he lasted 2.2 Innings and gave up 6 ER. That’s what I call coming back to earth. His overall numbers are still good, especially for someone with his limited ML experience, but his recent performances were less than mediocre. 2.2 IP and 6 ER-Kyle Davies or Redman numbers, Dude.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

DOB - Andee filled us in on that already - Do you have anything new to report?

Just playing with ya dude.

By Shaun

August 6, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

I would argue that the Phillies are a better team than the D-Backs and predict that by the time the season is over both teams’ records will reflect it or come close to reflecting it. Teams rarely if ever outperform their Pythagorean record by ten games over the course of 162 games. I will be extremely surprised if the D-Backs do it.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Lew -He’s got the noon start after a night game. Advantage pitcher(both). Plus it will be a test of the benches. I think I like our chances in that department also.

By Ron Roberts

August 6, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Hmm, looks like the Mets are trying to fend off a newly beefed-up offense coming to town, by moving up their premiere arms.

What’s odd is that we’ve yet to face JOhn Maine so far, this season.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

Lew

Three “bad” starts since June 18th:

July 13th: Home vs. Reds 4.2 innings, 6 hits, 4 earned runs

July 18th: Away vs. Padres 6 innings, 7 hits, 4 earned runs

August 4th: Away vs. Cubs 2.2 innings, 4 hits, 6 earned runs

Other than that he has been fine. He hasn’t been as sharp lately, but I feel that falling apart is a little strong. His starts were very good in between the two poor ones on July 18th and August 4th. Hopefully he will continue to struggle.

By Overlord

August 6, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

Lew you are right on Maine, i saw the game he pitched against cubs and boy, he never fooled a single batter. Theres something wrong with this guy, maybe he is tired, since he is a thin guy, hudson type, he might be getting tired because of the recent heat.

Hernandez is a game we will have trouble winning, ill have to accept that guy is doing a wonderful job, he knows how to pitch and how to win. The muts didnt know what they were getting when they got him, he came in to be 3rd or 4th pitcher and suddenly he is their ace, plain and simple.

By Lew

August 6, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

Efrim-I never said falling apart. I said coming back to earth. He is.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Lew - In Maine’s last start against the Brewers he got an apparent third out that was clearly called incorrectly as safe. The Brewers then went on to score all 6 runs that they scored in that game. Personally I wouldn’t use that an excuse for all 6 runs as I think a pitcher should be able to shut it down with minimal damage. However, using your Soriano philosophy is it fair to say the whole game “hinged” on that call and indeed Maine would have thrown a shut out if not for that one play? Therefore he’s actually a “Hot” pitcher rather than falling apart? Just wondering where we draw the lines here?

By Shaun

August 6, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

Just found a blog that states only 32 teams in the history of baseball have exceeded their Pythagorean record by more than 8 games.

Could the D-Backs stay this good? It’s possible but not very likely.

By Weather Man

August 6, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Weather Update For the Philadelphia Area and NY… Tomorrow Tuesday until Thursday a Heat Wave….condition over 100 degree in the Shape with humidity HIGH…Thursday Game at SHEA 12:10 PM Brutal…….Advanted Braves….

By TampaBrave

August 6, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

DOB

After being called pessimistic, I would like to point out that there is a bright side to the Mets moving up their front line starters. First, if our offense shows up and we hammer them, then they go into the next series with their 4 and 5. That’s good for braves’ fans, right?? Second, we put stress on those arms for their next outing.

I wish we could push Smoltz back to Thursday on his scheduled day.

By Lew

August 6, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Anders-Go back and re read the post. I never used the terminology “Falling Apart”, now, did I? I specifically said his overall numbers were good, but he was “coming back to earth.” Don’t try making more of it than it is-which is an observation. In his past five starts (not all of which were bad), his ERA has risen by half a run per game over a month and his average IP per game has come down pretty radically. That is not good pitching. It is, like I said, coming back to earth.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

OK, Tampa Brave, I take back what I said about you being negative, for the sake of this discussion. Now with that smokescreen out of the way, defend your liking Joe Moron.

By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist

August 6, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

“didn’t bring any cheese …” meaning no fastball. and why are cheese and fastball synonymous? and didn’t stinky blog before as somebody named “synonymous”? back and forth. back and forth. “hey, synonymous, braves stink.”
“yeah, well your a idiot.” meltdown after that.

and why is mr. met’s head soiled? too cheap to dryclean mr. met for the big series?

and if willie randolph’s team wins 2 of 3 does that make willie randolph bobby cox’s daddy?

and now, the dumbing down of the blog … yes, it is true. what has happened here?

By ncscoots

August 6, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

Folks, you’re all anointing the Mets’ starters as possible trouble for the Braves, but do you think the Mets are carefree about facing Smoltz and Hudson? Pitching matchups go both ways. If there’s worry in the clubhouses, I’d wager on more sweat up north.

The storybook scenario: Perez, the early-season Braves-beater, gets righteously and vehemently clocked; his head goes south; and he goes on a long spell of racking up an ERA of about 12.00 every time the Braves are even in the same time zone. Yeah. I like it. Go to print.

By Josh

August 6, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

I didn’t watch the game last Friday night (I think that was Smoltz’s start). How did Lance Cormier pitch. Statistically he gave up two runs, but did it look like he had his stuff and had some bad luck, or was he lucky to get out of it with only 2 runs damage done?

Just wondering if he could possibly be the 5th starter, or if maybe old Oscar should get the ball.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Weatherman Why would the hot humid weather be advantage Braves?

By beachcomber

August 6, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Tampa Brave Fan - Truth be know, I only lasted until the 5th and then went with some friends to Butler’s for some great NC BBQ - then off to watch a real game on tape at home.

I am continually amazed by people here who say you now must cast off the team your were loyal to for 40 years and root for the old home team. Why? They play in the American League and they stink!

By BT

August 6, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

As a die-hard baseball (especially Braves) fan I appreciate all the information going back and forth on the Met’s starting pitching and ours. It is beginning to be minutae. As a die-hard baseball (especially Braves) fan I appreciate all the information going back and forth on the Met’s starting pitching and ours. It is beginning to be minutiae Let them play it out on the field and we can raise hell the next day. Now I will agree the thought of Woodward being announced in the starting lineup for us is very disturbing! Bring back Orr.

By DAP

August 6, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

i dont think the thursday game at 12:10 is necesarrily an advantage for the braves, because they are pitching tim hudson, who sometimes seems to wilt in the heat. hopefully he can stay cool and get us a win.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

* Lew* fair enough. I stand corrected. Plus your observations aren’t totally incorrect. He still has good stuff however, but needs to execute his out pitch better.

By KC

August 6, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Yup, it’s gonna be a battle the next few days. Should be fun. That is, as long as the Braves win at least 2 of them.

Here are the pitching matchups and how they’ve performed over their last 5 starts:

Oliver Perez: 3-1, 2.56 ERA VS Buddy Carlyle: 4-1. 3.31 ERA

John Maine: 2-2 4.08 ERA VS Tim Hudson: 4-0, 0.91 ERA

Orlando Hernandez: 3-0, 2.48 ERA VS John Smoltz: 2-1, 3.21 ERA

Hudson is as hot as any pitcher in baseball right now. Smoltz was cooking along until his last start. For the Mets, El Duque and O.Perez obviously have hot hands. Hopefully we can keep Maine in the rut he’s been in .

By ncscoots

August 6, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Just wondering if he could possibly be the 5th starter, or if maybe old Oscar should get the ball.

Old Oscar might be able to go five innings if his wife and daughter were being held hostage, but that’s about it. You really want to guarantee the bullpen MORE innings every time through the rotation?

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

BT There is an echo in here. :-)

By KC

August 6, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

Tampa Brave” Wednesday *IS Smoltz’s scheduled day. The 5th slot is routinely skipped to keep everyone else on an every-fifth-day schedule. It’s not like he’s gong on short rest.

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

don’t say I told you, but NEW BLOG IS UP

By ncscoots

August 6, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

tim hudson, who sometimes seems to wilt in the heat

That would explain why Hudson’s best month, career-wise, is August. Hmm.

By KC

August 6, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

Let me add that although El Duque’s been hot… I’ve still got to give the edge to Atlanta with Smoltzy going in a big game. There hasn’t been a better big-game pitcher in our generation.

If you look at how Hudson and Maine have been trending of late… definite advantage to Atlanta. So I like our chances here of winning 2 of 3. In a way, it’s kind of nice to get the Carlyle-Perez matchup out of the way first… because if the can find a way to steal that one, the series would really look bright!

They’re also without Beltran, so the Braves have an undeniable offensive edge… on paper of course.

GO BRAVES!

By TampaBrave

August 6, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

beachcomber

Everyone knows that the Devil Rays are an excuse for Yankee fans to go on vacation to Tampa. When the Yanks come to town, its 65/40 yankee fans.

Tampa= Yankees

If you’ve ever been to Tampa and you drive by Raymond James Stadium where the Yankees spring training facilities are, you will see huge signs touting the Yankees 27 World Series titles. Does that sound like a environment where a new team could prosper?

By Do

August 6, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, I am a Mets fan, so one did come by and correct you last night. I usually don’t like to post and jump into the fray. Just like to go around to the blogs of other teams and see how the other side is thinking. Very informative. It’s very easy to lose perspective and overvalue/undervalue your own players/team when you stay in your own neighborhood. Cherry-picking stats to make the team you support look better and the rival team seem less than it is. I see that on Mets blogs, this blog, Brewers blog, Cardinals blog etc. Basically, everywhere.

I would suggest others try reading the blogs of other teams. Doubtless you will read things that are inaccurate, wrong or just plain stupid. They will make you angry, but if you are honest with yourself, you might find that at least part of the argument is valid. One must divorce empirical truths from emotional entanglements. For me, it reminds me of the time I lived in Texas for awhile after being born and raised in the Northeast. It gets you out of your comfort zone.

Anyway, for those of you that might be interested, you can see pictures of the in construction CitiField (opening 2009) here:

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/mets/galleries/buildingcitifield/buildingcitifield.html

It is going to be quite nice and can’t be built fast enough to replace the craptacular (the truth hurts even if it is home to many beloved memories as it is for Mets fan) Shea. They are going to level the chop shops too and build a nice area with entertainment, residential housing, restaurants and hotels.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 6, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Josh, Cormier looked okay. He didn’t get hit necessarily hard but he wasn’t locating his pitches very well, which is something he has to do since he doesn’t throw hard. Whatever Cormier had in March he needs to find it and get it going again.

By Salty

August 6, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

jjs

Your 12:19…thank you!

By Mo in the boonies

August 6, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy, No need for the sarcasm, I was just trying to provide a remedy for what seems to be bothering you, and others on here a whole lot. Personally I just scroll on by the jerky posts. On most blogs and boards I’ve been on, they either have a password, or the email address serves as a password. So I figured that if your email address didn’t match the ID you registered with, and a faker was using, then no one could post as you. Surely all these imposters don’t know your email addy? But nevermind….

And a stick of dynamite couldn’t get me out of the boonies. I live here on the shore of one of the beautiful Great Lakes, out of desire, not necessity, and just a short jaunt down a sugar, sand beach is a river with all the fishing any man (or lady for that matter) could want. The worse crime we have is the occasional dude who has one too many on a Saturday night, and gets a DUI. The only fly in the ointment is, we can’t get the Braves every game. But I can live with that.

As for my comment about McCann needing glasses, it was made out of concern for him, I truly appreciate the guy.

Also my bad for thinking you were witty enough to have done the Church Lady takeoff.

Ron I vote for Escobar, but only if they have to get rid of Renteria, and I hope that only happens in exchange for a great starter. Not another team’s used up cast off.

I have no problem with Glavine getting his 300th win. It is not an easy thing to do, and the guy did it, no matter who’s team he is on.

By beachcomber

August 6, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

Tampa Brave - Those Yankee fans had better make other travel plans beyond 2012 or so cause there’s no way the Rays are here by then.

BTW, did you notice in Sunday’s papers, the Rays get the Central Division of the NL next year? Good news, perhaps, for the multitude of Cub’s fans who live here but another year where you have to grind it out 500 miles to see the Braves - unless you want to go to the third world nation to the south.

By Overlord

August 6, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Josh Lance looked like we are in trouble, i pay to god that i am wrong on this one, it was just a reliever appearance, just hope he takes something positive out of it and brings better stuff to his next start.

By Bob, Journalist

August 6, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

Shaun Payne, you’re in rare form today! What in the world is the basis for “That doesn’t bode well for what the D-Backs are likely to do the rest of the way”?

I’m sure that “unless their offense does A LOT more than it’s done all season” is intended as humor … for if it is serious, then the entire piece seems circular and inane; which was my reaction, regardless of the intent of the appositive.

Methinks it’s generally considered bad form to suggest something as being likely and then give conditions under which the “likely” would be different … better to simply say what the expected future results will be if performance continues as it has in the past.

Of course, anything is possible, especially when your sample size is small … but regardless of sample size, in games of skill involving both dependent and independent variables, methinks it’s usually best to try and determine why the results are deviating from the norm rather than assume some variation of the central limit theorem … not that that is what you were doing, but it was my immediate reaction to your post.

If you flip 10 coins 1,000 times each, I, as I assume would you, would expect each to return something in the neighborhood of 500 heads and the total to be very close to 5,000.

However, if one or more of the coins gave significantly different results from that which was expected … what would be the expected results for each of the coins … if another, identical test were to be effected?

There are perhaps three schools of general thought: (a) 500 since the tests are independent; (b) the sum of the 2 tests would approximate 1,000; or (c) the same as the first test so as to reflect any bias.

Unless there is reason to suspect a biased coin or flipping mechanism, methinks the answer should be (a) but when the “test” involves multiple dependent variables, I would be rather hesitant to assume that the characteristics of the population elements were identical and be more likely to select (c).

By Overlord

August 6, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

KC im not sure on what are you meaning with the match perez-carlyle…… i read something about “if we can steal that match”. Hey Buddy has an ERA of 2.95 in his last 7 starts, and 27 Ks vs 5 BB. As far as i can see, buddy is doing good job, i wouldnt call it a steal if he wins, I wouldnt say he is a HOF but he sure is capable of winning a guy like perez (remember perez will be facing our bats).

By MiaBchBravesFan

August 6, 2007 7:10 PM | Link to this

I’m just curious as to why the organization has not seen fit to send Oscar Villarreal to Richmond for a couple of starts to stretch him out as a number five starter. If Lance Cormier’s audition last Friday against the Rockies is a harbinger of things to come, why waste time? Cormier could take on Villarreal’s long relief role. Also, if we sent Oscar V. to Richmond, we could bring back Chad Paronto; that is, if Paronto’s ailing groin allows for him to perform in tip-top shape.

Since we will be going back to 12 pitchers, I hope we see Pete Orr on the bench again. He’s a good man to have on the roster.

September 1st just can’t get here quickly enough.

PS

The day I see Chuck James go seven, I’ll drop dead on the floor. Chuckie, buddy, you need to butch up, sweetie.

By Rumpelstilzchen

August 6, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave—I’m not a f*** Mets fan you dumbass!!

‘Do’ do sound a whole lot like ‘Andee’ who do sound a whole lot like ‘Anders’ which is Stinky!

By Savannah Guy

August 6, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

Mo in the boonies: Hey man…let me take a couple minutes and sort this out here. We don’t know each other, but after catching up on the blog and I saw your reply to me, I was at first confused by your obvious consternation, then…confused more after reading my post that obviously ticked you off. So I looked up what I’d said to you to warrant your, um…reply. What I found was just a not-so-well written post (mine) that contained parts that could be misconstrued (by you). I really didn’t mean to come off as sarcastic, but after reading it I could see where you might.

So, allow me to apologize. Sarcasm was not my intention. My intention was to answer the questions you posed. Guess I didn’t wordsmith it properly and, because your moniker struck a chord (good memories) I played with it for a moment. Sincerely…no disrespect intended. My answer to your church lady question was in no way sarcastic bit it sure seemed to miff you for some reason. Was the “isn’t that special” comment? That was a simply a direct reference to what “she” would say. Am I witty enough? Perhaps not. I’ll accept that.

I also answered your Leo Mazzone question. Was there a problem with that? On the boonies: Hey man, I too live on water as well in semi-boonies. That “boonie” reference was not sarcasm…really. Hell, sounds like you live in paradise. And I fish too. Guess now I won’t be invited to wet a line in your hood.

Again, I plead innocent to bad intentions and guilty of not expressing myself better than I did. It did look a bit sarcastic when I looked at it from that perspective. Usually my sarcasm is more about humor than picking. If I had been a bit more careful with style, perhaps you would have thanked me for the info. But I’ll chalk it up to…too quick to bang something out without rereading and before hitting the “post” button.

Reason I’ve bothered to write this: Trying to right a perceived wrong and go forward without any unnecessary negativity. It’s important to me that you know this. Umbrage is a burden no person should carry. If we lived near each other we would probably be friends. Life is short. There is baseball to watch and fish to catch. You good? Peace, blog, baseball, fishing brother.