Braves

By GTA

August 6, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

first?

By Jersey Gil

August 6, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

DOB you never answer my question about Escobar and the Braves helping him to learn English…If there a program That the Braves has to teach those kid from the latin America to be adapt to our country…i be love see an interview yesterday with escobar..he look he is a good kid. Be prepare for the heat wave this week in philly.

By KC

August 6, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

“Their bullpen has been strong all season, particularly closer Billy Wagner. Those of us who suggested last winter that the Braves would do as well with Bob Wickman as the Mets with Wagner should admit we were idiots (my hand’s raised).”

I think the point made by many of us in the Wagner-Wickman comparison, is that Wicky had virtually identical success to that of Billy Wagner. (77 saves in 86 save opportunities, VS 77 saves in 87 opps over that stretch). Wickman also posted a 2.57 ERA over 2005, 2006 combined.

Any confidence placed in Wickman was based on that performance. If I were to pick either at the start of the season for my team, I would have picked Wagner because he’s younger, and has better stuff… but to say there hasn’t been any kind of significant gap between the 2 closers recently (until this year) would be 100% accurate.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

OK Wickamn defenders - take your marks - Go!

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Well, hre we are. Instead of the mundane dog n pony show that you get elsewhere, here under DOB’s big tent you get songs, baby seals and cheese(another term for fastaballs)whiz. Let the show begin.

By Ron

August 6, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

DOB Got a question for you!!! In YOUR own opinion who would YOU rather have as the Future SS? Escobar OR Lillibridge? I would say Escobar!!! What do you say?

By Anders

August 6, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Hey Paladin - Fourth out of the blocks. My dream is the top spot. Think I have a shot??

By DAP

August 6, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

i for one think that this road trip is extremly important. the braves have GOT to come away with a winning road trip here, because its been about time for them to kick into high gear for a month.

the braves show us what they are made of on this trip. hopefully they havent already.

By A-ville Ranger

August 6, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

Good post DOB,no question this is a key series along with the Philly one.The team has handled the Mets pretty well so far,however overall they haven’t been able to win enough of the close, tough games.Here’s hoping this week will be the start of a run at the post season.

By TexasBrave

August 6, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for the new Blog, didn’t expect one until tomorrow before the big game. The longer and longer the blog gets the slower and slower my poor computer takes to up load it each time.

Thanks again,

By BamaBrave

August 6, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

It’s been so long since they’ve played each other head-to-head, it feels like the first time…

Here’s hoping the Muts are cold as ice after stressing over Glavine’s 300th.

And it’s about time we quit trying to play head games with Oliver Perez. Just get up there and hack. Tex may be immune to the double vision that chump seems to give us. Hope so.

Yeah, we’re a long, long way from home, but I think the pressure is on the Muts. Go Bravos.

(Sorry. After I typed “feels like the first time”, I had to run with it.)

By Anders

August 6, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

DOB - I believe Minaya has been gathering his Latin Contingent in beautiful downtown Flushing for the hot week we are about to experience. 75% of the Mets crew will feel right at home - Do you agree?

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Anders If Wickamn loses his job as closer he is going to try out for the olympic diving team. Can you imagine what size speedo he will need!?

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

Those of us who suggested last winter that the Braves would do as well with Bob Wickman as the Mets with Wagner should admit we were idiots (my hand’s raised).

I think I was the only one this offseason who said Billy Wagner was a better closer than Bob Wickman.

By Shaun

August 6, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

I think the make or break games are those against the weaker pitching staffs—Phillies, Reds, Cardinals, Marlins, Nats and Astros.

They have the offense to destroy these teams on most nights (and some days), especially now with “Sexy Texy”.

They probably aren’t going to out-pitch anyone so it’s important for them to pile it on the weak-pitching teams.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Anders Nah, some of these guys are like the ones who get in line 3 days early for tickets to America Has Talent.

By The Drifter

August 6, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

I got a good feeling about this series. Not going to get into a over analyzing debate on these 2 teams position player match-ups. To he!l with the Mets. I could not possibly give a crap about this Mets team in any way, shape or form and least of all about their players. The Braves will at least win 2 out of 3 against the Mets. It is as close to a must win situation as it can be. The Braves have had their number all year and I just cannot figure they blow it in this series.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Paladin I see him more in Shamu’s role rather than Louganis’

By Dylan w/o the dead

August 6, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

My predictions for the mets series are tex and chipper decide to help the mets with some early demolition of shea stadium turning baseballs into meteorites as they blast homeruns with such power and force as to rip holes through the worn concrete and mortar of the dilapidated shea stadium the final blast coming in the last series after the young starting hurler of the metropolitans watches his first fastball to the monstrous beast simply called tex who with one quick twist of the bat sends a ball shot like a laser guided missile straight through the famous little apple of shea stadium the crowd forever remembers it as the day Atlanta had her revenge upon the north and the player caught in the wake of the destruction have nothing but fear anguish and shame to keep them company as they fight what they now know is a losing battle to a superior force.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

I think I was the only one this offseason who said Billy Wagner was a better closer than Bob Wickman.

Efrim Momma, Momma pin a rose on you.

By The Grinch

August 6, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

We will win this division. Perez will get rocked eventually. Ill Dookie will not continue to pitch as if time didn’t catch up with him a good while back. Sosa’s saving his greatest implosion job for when it really counts. Lastings Milledge is a punk, Shea stadium is a toilet, and the Mets will revert to what they always have been: losers. Did I forget anything? Oh, yeah; &%$# Tom Glavine.

Now, football…the Colts reap what they sow; one day after cutting pro-bowl DT Cory Simon, pro-bowl DT Booger McFarland goes down with a season-ending knee injury. Good luck stopping the run this year; we shall see the return of the “Manning Face.” And Lew, the Bucs cut Simeon Rice. Bad Karma.

By MadduxSmoltzGlavine

August 6, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

Ron, how could you compare between Escobar and Lillibridge? We are getting an idea of what Escobar is capable of with his 3 months in the bigs. Lillibridge has never been up to the bigs and as such is an unknown. It’s like comparing Salty to McCann; production over the long term in the bigs is what matters, not “potential”.

By Andee

August 6, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

I’m a Mets fan, and yeah the Braves worry me. Any Mets fan with two brain cells to rub together isn’t feeling very smug right now even with a 4.5 game lead on the Braves and the Phillies right there too. (I can’t speak for all the stupid bandwagon fans because I don’t talk to them.)

But I think barring a sweep by either team, which would mean narrowing or widening the gap by three games, who wins this series is largely meaningless in the long run. It means a one-game pickup or loss, not much of a big deal. Even if both the Braves and Mets are in the playoffs they won’t face each other in round one, so this head to head matchup, while significant, isn’t everything.

But I guarantee you most Mets fans don’t see it the way I do. If the Mets lose this series they’ll be ripping out what’s left of their hair. Even the smart Mets fans aren’t known for their perspective. :-P

By ChampDawg

August 6, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

The series with the Mets is important (more important) only because the Braves couldn’t take care of business when they needed to against the Reds, Cards, Giants, and Dbacks. Yes, this week is make or break. I’m glad the Braves picked up Texiera. Great. But JS failed to improve where we really needed it- starting pitching. James, Carlyle, and Reyes is a recipe for disaster.

By DAP

August 6, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

efrim sorry, but we cant give you the “You were right, we were wrong” award there. KC was right all along, because before the season started, wickman WAS just as good as Wagner, as far a stats go.

this season, obviously wagner is better. alot better.

all anyone had to go on this offseason was the stats up to that point, where they were practically equals, though they had very different styles. did you say “this season, wager is gonna blow everyone away while wickman will struggle”? maybe thats what you meant in the first place. you win.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

DOB You see what you’ve started now? You’ve turned this into an attack on Big Shea. What has that park ever done to you? Granted we don’t have the beautiful Marta system that drops you in downtown Atlanta where you then board a bus to be driven to a non descript parking lot (Viewing of home plate where hammerin Hank hit the first # 755 required) for the wonderful walk up a set of cement steps overlooking an 8 lane highway bumper to bumper with traffic. BTW, what do they do with that home plate thing now? Is HH hold out there?

By Lou Pasture

August 6, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

I read where JJS thinks the blog has dumbed down and I wonder if he meant becouse of Paladin? I think Paladin should rescent the remark if thats who JJS was talking about.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

KC

I wish I could remember some of the arguements me and you had this offseason about Wickman and Wagner. You made Wickman out to be Mariano. Stats aside, missing bats is one of the most important things in an analysis of a late inning pitcher or closer. Save ratios are fine, but as you have seen this season, Wickman rarely if ever has a 1-2-3 inning. He isn’t reliable and will definetly cost the Braves 2-3 more baseball games this year. You can’t move him from the closer’s role though, because he is worthless as a middle reliever. He has to enter into the game with no one on base.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Ephrim and Paladin - fighting over my Mets. Who’d a thunk it If Chase jumps on that band wagon I’m heading to the storm shelter because the end would definetly be near.

By CAR3BOOGIE

August 6, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

Has Francoeur been using a different bat lately.. Looks lighter with a smaller handle.

Let’s Go Braves

GATA

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

DAP

“this season, wager is gonna blow everyone away while wickman will struggle”? maybe thats what you meant in the first place. you win.

Yes. Yes I did say that. It was the first time I ever blogged here. KC and I got into it a lot regarding the Mets and Braves. I’m a negative fan, although I believe I am a realist, and KC is as positive as they come.

By Josh

August 6, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

By the way…yes JS did not get a starting pitcher before the trade deadline.

But if anyone has noticed…nobody got a decent starting pitcher at the deadline. They weren’t available. With the amount of money given to pitchers last offseason (Example: Gil Meche) and profit sharing up, any team with a decent starter is holding on to them for the future.

Sure, some starters were available, like Matt Morris and maybe Livan Hernandez, but why get players who aren’t going to consistently outperform James and Carlyle?

We traded for Tex. That puts us in a position to win this year. If not, we’ll be in a great position to win next year if Mike Hampton actually pitches again. Or some of our pitchers in the minors have had another year to mature, and Chuck James figures out how to make it past the 5th and 6th inning.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Andee as a fellow Met fan I have to disagree with you. If the Mets sweep the Braves the division is basically gone for the Braves. If the Braves sweep the Mets thats a huge statement on in season domination. That can’t be denied. Not a death nell to the Mets but certainly a bad omen. I don’t expect either to sweep however.

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Jersey Gil, yeah, the Braves have a program for the Latin kids to learn English.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Welcome El Grincho, and thanks for the pointey ball update. Booger McFarland. One of the great names in sports. Does anyone know: Did his Mother pick that? As for Rice, yes, I’ll have some, please. I sort of hope the Falcons bring him in for a look. Since, we have a rookie on one end and a great pass rusher on the other who unfortunately is about as fragile as Shirley Temple.

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

Ron, if I had to pick now, I’d pick Escobar, of course. Who wouldn’t?

Need to see Lillibridge develop before making any long-term analysis of where he’s headed. But can’t imagine he’s going to make more of an initial impact than Escobar. This guy’s got “star” written all over him.

By Wes

August 6, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Andee—good point about the series not meaning much in the standings barring a sweep, but I think its real importance is in terms of momentum. The Braves have been inconsistent and somewhat frustrating as of late, and if they don’t get at least a 50/50 split from the Mets and Phillies, then it will be a pretty big mental blow to players and fans alike.

By Chop Chop

August 6, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Grinch, the Colts didn’t have Corey Simon at all last year and won the Super Bowl without being able to stop the run. Oh, wait a second…they were able to stop the run in the playoffs. I remember Jim Nantz and Phil Simms making such a big deal out of safety Bob Sanders and how important he was to that Colts’ D, but the guy is listed at 5’8”, 206. A stout fellow for that size, no doubt, but he certainly wasn’t the “key” to stopping the run. Come to think of it, I don’t think anyone has adequately explained how the Colts were able to pull that off last year.

Come to think of it, I guess it’s kinda like the Cardinals magically finding MVP-level starting pitching out of Jeff Suppan and Jeff Weaver in the postseason and winning the World Series last year.

Last year was weird, man.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

I understand the stats. I know Wickman has been a decent closer his career. But I hate late inning relievers who don’t strike batters out. If you aren’t going to be a strikeout late inning reliever, than you better have a nasty sinker that is hit weakly most of the time……like Peter Moylan. Wickman just doesn’t have it anymore.

By Ron

August 6, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

MadduxSmoltzGlavine Dude I was NOT comparing the two!!! I Clearly believe that Escobar WILL be better and I said that!!! I was just ASKING DOB what his opinion was!!! You do have to realize Lillibridge will either be a Starter SOMEWHERE for us or traded or a Super Utility player!!! I was just wondering who DOB would pick!!! Thats all!!

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

Lou Pasture If I am going to do any re-scenting I will start with you. You smell like what your last name is full of. Stinky, as a matter of fact.

By ncscoots

August 6, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

There’s only one make-or-break series…one game up or down with three to play. Everything else is prelude, unless clinched or eliminated.

In baseball seasons past, too many things that “can’t happen” HAVE happened for me to worry too much about the Braves’ position after a single 6-game road trip. The results of the trip can make it tougher or easier down the stretch, but that’s all. It won’t be over either way.

That being said, I want to see the Braves sweep these suckers and crush their spirits like an overripe melon. I want to see heads explode. I want to see fear and loathing. I want to see how the Mets enjoy playing Persians to the Braves’ Spartans. I want to see Mets’ baseball death on an epic scale.

Figuratively. Of course.

By Ron

August 6, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

DOB I agree Escobar could be a special player If not already!!! Alot of people talk about the lack of power, but forget the power especially in the last 30 at bats with runners in scoring position he is hitting .500!!! Who needs power when you are doing that!!! You can get power at OTHER positions!!!

By Jason Breaux

August 6, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

I think wickman is the least of our problems currently. Its ironic to me that in a trading deadline where we are the most active, the one trade we did not make could really come back to haunt us the most. Consider this: them braves starters have logged the fourth fewest innings, which the bullpen have thrown the third highest! This is a recipe for disaster! The bullpen is obviously overworked and tired and the situation is not going to improve. This may hinder us from making any postseason. Think about it!

By JC FROM UT

August 6, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

Is there anyone out there who has cleared waivers that the Braves may be inerested in. I do not trust Cormier right now. Does anyone think Blaine Boyer can help the rotation?

By Stuart

August 6, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

Biggest series (if not road trip) in the last 5-10 years for the Bravos. They HAVE to come with their best effort this week or its lights out. This team is built for this and it is time to see if the boys have the stomach to pull out games when things don’t go their way. They absolutely have blown chances all year and are running out of time. They HAVE to go 5-1 on the trip or it is OVER.

By Chop Chop

August 6, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Oh, and Billy Wagner is a better closer than Bob Wickman. That was true before Wickman got to Atlanta and it will be true after he leaves. Wagner has a career 87.25 save percentage. I’ve been looking around to see if I can find Wickman’s, but if I recall, it’s somewhere around 83%.

I’ll tell you one thing, though. I bet Wickman’s got Wagner beat in the fansite department:

wickswarriors

How was I not aware of this site?

By Anders

August 6, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Okay, I think we can mark ncscoots down as neutral.

By flange1

August 6, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I know this is not the time for this discussion with Edgar hurt, but are there any discussions about moving KJ back to LF?

I think JS is thinking about a double play combination or Escoabr at SS and Lillibridge at 2B. Not this year and maybe not next but in the future?

Your thoughts?

By BosnianBaller

August 6, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave did you get a ring from the Marlins in 97?

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

Figuratively. Of course.

Scoots I think all of us swine-eatin-hell-for-leather Bravos would have just as soon you left that out. :-)

By DAP

August 6, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

chop chop that wickman’s warrior’s page is halarious, and that graphic of bob turing into bobzilla is kinda scary.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 6, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

I agree with DOB. I think over the next two weeks Escobar will be sealing the fate of Edgar Renteria as far as being a Brave in 2008. Some guys look good but you wonder if it will last (Charles Thomas, BJ Upton, Pat Burrell) while other guys look good and have “the look” (David Wright, Jose Reyes, Hunter Pence). Escobar is a member of the latter. The kid has that look. He looks like he has been playing in the majors for five years. He’s confident and stable and if the other night is any evidence he is also willing to learn and take instruction. He doesn’t look like the guy whom was described last year while at Mississippi. Perhaps, the problem wasn’t Yunel but Blauser. This kid looked good in spring training. He looked good in the minors. He is looking good right now.

By ncscoots

August 6, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

Anders, I only want to eradicate the memory of that three-gamer in Atlanta last year when the Braves did the worst lay-down since Melanie. I was there for every pitch, and it still makes me want to spit.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Andersmy sometime friend. It is getting down to the get-the-women-and-children-and-visiting-Muts-fans-off-the-street time. We are getting our collective “game face” on. The friendliness of the past few days may soon disappear.

NOTE I am not trying to be a self-appointed gate keeper or “enforcer”. I am just giving some friendly advice to my friend from New Yawk.

By BamaBrave

August 6, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Haven’t you heard, flange1? There’s some kid at Richmond named Jonathan Schuerholz who has the Braves management giddy with excitement. He’s the star of the future…

Yeah…right.

By Eric from MO

August 6, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

Im a Braves fan but I sure do get sick and tired of everyone saying the pressure is on the Mets. Everyone on the last blogged kept saying what if the Braves sweep the Mets, then we will only be 1 1/2 games out. Well I have a scenario for you all. What if the Braves get swept? We will be 7 1/2 games out and our division hopes will be over, possibly wild card hopes too.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

Paladin As long as you allow me to answer in kind “game on”.

By ncscoots

August 6, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

The friendliness of the past few days may soon disappear.

Paladin may be right about that. When a level-headed young sir such as myself starts frothing at the mouth, it’s probably time to get the married men off the infield.

Mets need to remember: You can run…but then you just die tired.

By Arkansas Braves fan

August 6, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

Dob, is there any chance the Braves can find someone to sure up the 5th spot in the rotation. The revolving door act with the 5th spot is getting old. I suggest if the braves cannot pick up anyone off waivers that Oscar Villareal(probably did’nt spell that right)should get the nod. I’m concerned about Smoltz’s recent outings. He’s been getting tagged and that has to be a big concern.

By Jay Dub

August 6, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

DOB - I almost hate to say it, but it is too good to pass up … Will the Braves let Jersey girl into their program so that she can learn to blog in English too?

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 6, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

Expect the Braves bullpen to be a factor during the next six games. Our bullpen has thrown 372.2 innings , only the Marlins (388.1) and Nationals (400) bullpens have worked more innings. Why so many innings ? The Rotation. Hudson is dominant , enough said. Smoltz has had shoulder problems all season , he says his arm feels fine and I’ll take him at his word but his next start will tell the story for all to see. Buddy Carlyle , I’m waiting for the other shoe to drop on this gutsy but career journeyman pitcher , he is going to get lit up like a Christmas tree. Chuck James , his inability to work deep into the sixth and seventh innings is due to his lack of confidence in his curveball. He got by with his fastball/change up last year but hitters are sitting on those two pitches. His 9-8 record says it all in spite of an outstanding 3.84 ERA. Lance Cormier , who the hell knows what this retread reliever turned starter will bring to the table after missing the majority of the season. He is slated to make his third start on Saturday 118 games into the race. Folk’s , our rotation is not a pretty picture. It’s a credit to Roger McDowell and the job he has done that this team is just 4.5 games out. On the other hand , the Mets and Phillies starting pitching far out strips our rotation. We are 112 games into it and still hoping that Cormier can nail down the fifth spot. Pray for a miracle because that is what it will take for the Braves to make the playoffs.

By Eric from MO

August 6, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Anders do you know what “Barring” means. You sure are dumb. He said unless there is a sweep not much will change in the standings. He meant if there was a sweep then it would effect the standings alot. He doesnt think a sweep is very likely though. Why do blog here Anders. None of your comments ever make a lick of sense and they really are just a waste of time.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

ncscoots - Am to understand that you’re only interested in single men when you froth at the mouth?

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Bamabrave Haven’t you heard? The Schuerholz pup is going to just skip the playing part. He is going to be manager when Bobby steps down.

By john

August 6, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

Mike Myers designated for assignment…

DOB, what is the likelihood of him coming to ATL? And what kind of impact would he have?

By Eric from MO

August 6, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Efrim ” I hate late inning relievers who don’t strike batters out. “

So let me ask you this do you think Hoffman is good or is he just a decent closer?

By TennesseePaul

August 6, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

ncscoots: Classic. That was a good one.

DOB: Thanks for the blog and the stats. Yunel is kickin’ @ss and takin’ names.

By The Grinch

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

Chop Chop, I’m just tired of the Colts. The Patriots too, for that matter, but on paper they look positively unstoppable this year. Of course, they have not had the full power of Joey Harrington to Roddy White unleashed upon them yet. Also, regarding Wick’s Warriors, you all might be interested to know Lew recently became their official artist after sending the chapter head a portrait. What a coincidence, no? It’s a small world after all.

Bosnian Baller, DOB is way too much the complex, brooding, ride-off-into-the-sunset-on-his-Triumph type to ever consider settling down, even with someone as socially prominent as the Marlins. I think he’s the type that would rather be the one presenting the ring, rather than vice-versa; he’s old school. I hear their relationship ended badly, though he still calls once a week and hangs up without saying anything.

By ncscoots

August 6, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

Well, Anders, I would have credited Red Barber, but I assumed real baseball fans would have understood the reference.

By Eric from MO

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

Lets say the Braves kill the Mets. How many of you all want to bet that the Mets fans will disappear on this site for awhile?

By Double Deuce

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

As important as this series is with the Mets, we can’t forget that the Phillies are right behind. If all the emotion and emphasis is on the Mets we set ourselves up for a letdown with the Phillies. If we want to call this a make or break series, then we better add “week” and include the trip to Philadelphia. Hopefully the addition of Mahay will allow us to handle the left handed part of their lineup.

I don’t think the season is lost if we don’t win both series, but the task will become a lot tougher. If you are a fan you have to love these games. If you are a player this is why you play the game. Good stuff indeed.

By rupert

August 6, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

dob, does tex have any ab’s against perez? maybe he could finally end the lefty’s dominance over the lineup

By Anders

August 6, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

Eric from MO As a famous caveman once said - What?

By rupert

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

METS FANS GO HOME! GET YOUR OWN BLOG!

By BamaBrave

August 6, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

Heh, heh, heh… Wouldn’t surprise me Paladin…wouldn’t surprise me at all…

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

Anders Ive said this to you before, but what am I going to do with you, son? Instead of staying out of sight, you are out—as we say down here—pickin’. Now, that’s fine if it is peaches, tobacco or cotton, you’re pickin’; but fights are another thing. Now, behave yourself, please.

DELTA AIRLINES CALLING MR. ANDERS

By Lew

August 6, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

Say whatever you will about Bob Wickman, but here are the facts-they are undeniable. When Wicky joined the Braves last year-just about one year ago, exactly-the Braves’ bullpen was in a state of almost total disarray. Let’s face it. The bullpen sucked as bad as any bullpen I’ve ever seen. Since Wicky showed up, he has saved 36 games out of 42 attempts with an ERA of 2.9-Do y’all understand that? 36-6 with a 2.90 ERA. Draw your own conclusions. Those are indisputable facts.

By Braves20

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

Yo DOB - thanks a lot for bringing up the Eric Gregg series. Every time I think Ive heard the last of that travesty, up it pops again.

Did however appreciate your words on bucolic Shea Stadium - right on!

As for Wagner, I’ll be a believer when he gets his post season ERA say under 7.50.

By Anders

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

ncscoots - I know the quote - just fooling with ya. Can’t let you rip my Mets with no response. It’s all good.

By BamaBrave

August 6, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

Shea Stadium smells like the dumpster behind a Captain Ds…in August.

By Alan

August 6, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

I’m with Jason Breaux (4:12) about the Braves’ pitchers. The back end of the rotation (actually #3-5) is very suspect. Chuck James has decent stats except his innings pitched are way below par for a #3 starter. Carlyle has been surprisingly good - we’ll really see if he’s got the “right stuff” tomorrow night. Of course, the back end of the bullpen also has been shaky lately, but Wickman seems to have straightened himself out the past few games. I like his demeanor and the steady, confident way he goes about his business. On the whole, I feel good about this team, but I’d feel a whole lot better if they could add a veteran innings-eating starter who throws strikes. Like who? Matt Morris would have been nice. Or maybe Livan Hernandez. Or Kevin Millwood. Or even Tony Armas, Jr.

By Will

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

DOB, how can you think that Escobar is going to be a stud player? It is like saying Paul Lo Duca or Freddy Sanchez are studs. Is he a solid player? Yes, but he is a guy that will be average with the bat and good with the glove. I could certainly see Lillibridge displacing him in the future. Lillibridge may not have proven himself yet in the majors, but it would be a bit ridiculous to say that his upside is not higher than Escobar’s.

Is there something I am missing? People are wetting their pants in excitement about a player who has 150 at bats in the majors with almost no power, little speed, and is just a singles hitter. The outside opinion on him seems to be superutility or decent starter but Braves fans think he is the second coming of jesus and the future of the organization. If he is the future, then this team is going to have some serious problems down the road.

By The Grinch

August 6, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

Paladin, when you inquired as to whether young McFarland’s mother “picked” his name, did you mean that to be an intentional pun? :-)

By Chop Chop

August 6, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

You’re right, Lew. Even with Wick’s struggles on the road this year, he’s a damn far sight better than what preceded him (Kolb, Reitsma, Farns…and Reitsma again…Ken Ray, anyone? Anyone???). Of course, Wick was so good last year that he took the fans’ expectations from the dankest, darkest, effluent-ridden outhouse to the penthouse. Now that he’s performing a little below average (great at home…uh, slightly less than great on the road), some of the denizens feel a little let down by him. That’s just the nature of the beast, ain’t it?

By Paladin

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

Damn, BamaBrave, thanks for the heads-up on the Captain D’s dumpsters. I was just on my way down there to look for cans.

By Anders

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

Lew Wickman 2007 - 3.89 ERA as a closer - hard to do. Whip 1.45 Not good for a closer - Dems da facts.

Check out the other top relievers - Not even close . Especially their WHIP.

By beachcomber

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

Braves20 - Re: your 5:12 post. Some folks can play a money ball; some can’t.

Billy W. hasn’t proven he can get people out when the moneys on the line (postseason).

For what it’s worth, I too, will be happy if I never hear the names Eric Gregg and Livan Herndandez again.

By FairWeatherBraveFanHater

August 6, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

NIce blog DOB. I don’t have much time and haven’t read too many comments but I had to reply before I leave. I said the same thing last night about all our wins getting into the heads of the Mets players. The 1 thing they have going for them is that we don’t have Glavine to tee off against.

As for pitching against Oliver, I feel strongly that this game will be much different. First of all, Perez has walked at least 3 in 5 of his last 6 games and w/ Kelly and then our 2 great switch hitters batting 3rd and 4th we will get our share of walks. Many things have changed since facing Perez last time(or 3 times). Kelly has come into his own andwaiting for his pitch.Like I said, we have Chipper and Tex hitting back to back and we haven’t had Willie or Escobar against him either.

I think we will jump on Perez the 1st couple innings and all the stuff he’s been reading about our new lineup will sink in and get him frazzled(new word).

If you don’t think the Mets are worried about this series or think it is important - ask Randolph. They wouldn’t change there pitching for the Reds. They are worried…and rightfully so.

This is going to be a great series. I think I’ll send the wife and my little boy out of town. No interuptions for this one.

Good luck

By bryan

August 6, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

I am not joking when i write this … Peter Moylan is the braves MVP … where would we be without this guy … not only in the games we won … but all the innings he can eat in blow outs … with our 3,4, and 5 guys pitching the way that they have - Peter has saved the season.

Seriously i mean that.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

No I didn’t Grinch, you sharpster you!

By Double Deuce

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

Lew

Great points about Wicky. All closers can’t be Hoffman’s, Rivera’s, et.al., yet that seems to be what closers are measured against. Good closers come in all sizes and shapes and Wicky is a shape of his own, and the Braves are better because of him.

All the clamor to move Soriano to the closer role has died down, and it didn’t take long for the Dotel people to calm down. Maybe now people will appreciate what Wickman has done a little more.

By Braves20

August 6, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this

Will - Taken in any Braves games lately? Escobar has done everything but do the laundry.

You point out the small sample we have to work with - granted, but then you turn around and say Lillibridge will supplant Escobar - and this is based on what?

Know the stats geeks/LL right fielders will disagree, but as DOB (and several respected MLB scouts) put it sometimes, a player just “has it” - and Escobar is one of those guys.

Lillibridge, on the other hand, (and only based on what I saw in Spring Training) looks more like a Craig Counsell type - good but not the stud Escobar will prove to be.

And Chop Chop great 5:29 post. Seems some of us have forgotten the “good old days” out in the pen.

By Lew

August 6, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

Anders-No that’s how you choose to spin the facts. He’s still 18-5 in save situations this year-No, not quite as good as Wagner- but I bet it’s one of the better records, ERA or no, in baseball. Who even cares how many runs a closer gives up if he saves the game?

By Bravesfanin MetsLand

August 6, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I have 2 off day questions for you:

1) Have you watched Damages at all on FX? I have to tell you, I really think it’s amazing. Glenn Close is awesome as always, and I even think Ted Danson is acting wonderfully in it. Just curious.

2) I promised afew friends a party this weekend if we take 2 of 3 from the Mets. I need to buy cigars if that’s the case. I’m not much of a cigar guy and I know you wrote you’ve smoked them during spring training. have a brand you can suggest.

Let’s take the first game tomorrow and then go the last two with Smoltz and Hudson, I like our chances.

By Efrim

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

Eric from MO

What are you talking about?

Trevor Hoffman has 991 K’s in 925 innings. I would say that is a strikeout pitcher. Is he anymore? No. But to put Bob Wickman in the same sentence as Hoffman is a joke. Hoffman and Wickman aren’t in the same class as a closer.

That said, 98 World Series, Hoffman blew it for his Padres that year. All star game a couple of years ago, I think last year actually, Hoffman blows it in a big spot.

Its Mariano Rivera and everyone else folks…….

And even he blew a couple.

By Sodium-Free Woody

August 6, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this

Can someone answer me why the Mets’ rotation is so good this year? I just can’t figure it out. Take a look at these numbers:

Orlando Hernandez El Fluke-A really is having an abnormally good year. Since he left the Yanks after 2004, he has posted ERAs of 5.12, 4.09, 6.11, and 4.66. Not exactly incredible numbers. The most games he won during one season in that span was 11 last year, when he finished with a .500 record. Yet, somehow, the guy’s ERA is holding steady this year right at 3 and he’s on pace to throw more innings than he has since 2000. And keep in mind that the guy is reportedly 41 years old, meaning he’s probably really even older than Julio Franco. Talk about catching lightning in a very inexpensive bottle at 5 million a year.

John Maine Now, I will say he showed the potential to be really good last year. But, when he was with Baltimore his first two years, he was awful. ERAs of 9.82 and 6.30. He’s only 26 and he only made a combined 9 starts in his time with Baltimore, so it wasn’t exactly a great set from which to judge. But, still. The man’s been outstanding this year…and he only makes $391,000 a year, even though he pitches like an ace. Chuck James eat your heart out.

Oliver Perez Now, who the heck decided this guy was allowed to resurect his career with the Muts? He was dropped by PITTSBURGH, for God’s sake. It’s not like they’re EVER in a position to just drop good, young, talented pitching…ESPECIALLY when said pitching is only making a little over 2 million a year. Of course, he wasn’t exactly good when he left the Pirates. After a great year in 2004 with a 2.99 ERA, the guy imploded…posting consecutive ERAs of 5.85, 6.38, 6.63, and 6.55. To put it mildly, he was horrific. Then he comes to the Mets, totally shuts down the Braves all year long (although, let’s hope not this week), and is an anchor of their staff at an incredibly affordable rate. What gives? The guy is on pace to have his highest strikeout total since that great 2004 season…and he’s doing it just in time to solidify a rotation many expected to be crap. Time to start playing to everyone’s low expectations, Oliver…please get the memo.

Tom Glavine I love Tommy…I really do. I was glad to see him get 300, even though it wasn’t in a Bravos uniform as it should have been. And I think he’s a class act…an indication of everything that’s right with baseball. However, wasn’t he supposed to have violently regressed by now? I know he’s a control guy and a very smart pitcher and these types tend to age well…but COME ON, Tom. Be a true Brave…help us out…and start pitching terribly.

Jorge Sosa I know, I know. It’s not like he’s been incredible. But, for what it’s worth, Sosa got them through a stretch when not a whole lot of other people were pitching well for the Muts. Sure, he’s in the pen now, stinking it up. And I’m not sure a single person on the Braves would want him back…except for probably Woody, so that he looks a little better in comparison…but the Mets have gotten more than what they paid for with Sosa…and it’s frustrating as hell.

The Bullpen As a followup to DOB’s statement of Billy Wagner’s dominance, I think everyone underestimated the strength of this bullpen as a whole. I mean, no one thought Wagner was going to be this good. But who thought the rest of the pen would be? When Duaner Sanchez went down, I thought that was it for them. He was lights out before that awful injury and I thought really solidified their pen. But, they really haven’t missed him at all. Look at the people they have in their bullpen: Scott “Remember that half a season I was good on the Angels” Schoeneweis? Aaron “Poor Man’s Steve Trachsel” Sele? Guillermo “I love Roids and Shouldn’t be good without them” Mota? COME ON!!! These guys are bums. Why can’t they start playing like it?

And this is not even to mention the fact that the Muts are getting great production in their lineup from guys like Damion “You don’t realize I’m 37 and have never been good, but it’s true” Easley and Ramon “Who the hell is Ramon Castro?” Castro.

Hello, my name is Marlon Anderson. Remember when I used to play on the Phillies and was mediocre at best? Yeah, neither does anyone else. But, somehow, I’m helping the Muts win ballgames.

Shoot me, please.

It’s unbelievable to me that the Muts have the team they do and are still winning ball games. And i hate to give credit to anyone on that team. But, seriously? Omar Minaya has put together a solid ball club with some really nauseatingly bad pieces. And his rotation is surprisingly cheap, and very effective…which I guess counteracts his unbelievably expensive and not-so-effective lineup. And Willie Randolph has made them a winning team in spite of the fact that the majority of their players are annoying and former wash-ups.

Anyway, just figured I’d try to get all this positivity about the Mets out of my system so that I can resume hating them well in advance of the series opener tomorrow.

I hope the Bravos knock them on their butts 3 games in a row and close this gap a little. I really think we have the potential to do that and it would certainly set a tone for the rest of the season.

Thanks, as always, DOB.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 6, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

Braves20, I totally agree about Escobar. He has the “it” factor. I remember when Jose Reyes first came up and he was awful. People started callling him a bust, but you could tell he that “thing” about him. Well, now here we are and Reyes is one of the best players in the game. Delmon Young @ Tampa Bay has the same thing. Quite frankly so does Francoeur and Frenchy is showing us what he can do.

By Braves20

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

This just in - Yankees promote Jim Brower. Good luck with that!

By Efrim

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

Eric from MO

I will say your comment about the Braves having the pressure on them more so than the Mets is spot on. We are 5 back in the loss. We can’t get swept. It wouldn’t be the end of the world if we lose 2 out of 3, even though I would be p**, but the pressure is all on the Braves entering this first game.

Now if we smacl around Oliver and El Duque and are 3 out in the loss entering an afternoon matchup of Tim Hudson and John Maine? Then they should be scared s**.

By Will

August 6, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this

Stats actually tell something about what happens in the game. Does having “it” make up for statistical superiority through the course of the year? Does a couple clutch hits really make up for another player helping the team out more on a consistent basis? Please, come on. Lillibridge had a very tough start to the year but the man has more speed, more power, a better glove (worse arm), takes a heck of a lot more walks, and is just the all around better talent. Escobar is not a stud. He is a good, solid player. But Braves fans get on the case of Mets fans for praising Paul Lo Duca as a stud player when he is exactly the same player as Escobar just at a position that requires less offensively. How does that make sense? The it factor only goes to a certain extent.

Do I think Lillibridge is a sure bet? No, no prospect is but his ceiling is higher than Yunel’s. Take a look at their minor league numbers. I think down the road he will be the better player.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this

Lew - Just measuring saves doesn’t tell you everything about how a guy is pitching. Some closers load up on 3 run saves. That’s why WHIP is now the stat of choice for relievers. It’s a good indicator on how effective they are. I agree that sometimes they let runs already on board score for the sake of the game. That’s why I don’t put much stock in holds. But a hig ERA and high WHIP for a relief pitcher means he is not being effective. listen, I think Wickman is a good reliever I just don’t think he’s top flight which is what is needed to play the .570 to .600 ball the Braves need to play. As for Wagner, he still has to show me he can do it in the big games. That starts this week.

By Anders

August 6, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

Sodium Free I’ll tell you why the Mets are pitching so well in two words. Rick Peterson.

By Lew

August 6, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this

Efrim-I realize you get your rocks off by strikeouts, but as long as the closer gets the outs, who cares how they come? It matters not one little bit. Just like that play Wicky made the other night. It sure wasn’t pretty and I’d just as soon not even imagine Bob in any position vaguely like that-will likely carrry the horrific image to my grave-but, Damn It, he made the play and it wasn’t an easy one to make. He gets zero for style points, but a 10 for effort and getting the job done.

By Lew

August 6, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

Anders-You’re absolutely right. Excuse me while I go commit suicde right now. Wicky sucks. Wagner is God. We don’t stand a chance. Must go die. Someone please eulogize me. DOB-Please print the lyrics to Pink Floyd’s Shine On You Crazy Diamond in remembrance of my presence on the blog.

By TexasBrave

August 6, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

Will - Having not seen Lillibridge play and only going by numbers, I would have to say that both will be equally good players in MLB. You have to ask yourself why would JS and the Braves player personal call up Escobar instead of Lillibridge unless they believed that Escobar was either ready or Lillibridge needed more development. Lillibridge is putting up some good numbers with quite a few SB’s and decent power. So my question to you is why not have both. Lillibridge before switching to SS in College was a Centerfielder for at least two years. I don’t think it would be inconceivable to give him a shot come spring if Andruw departs.

Other than that and unless Escobar completely faulters I can’t see them knocking Escobar out of the SS position. Another posibility is that they bring him up to play 2B and move Kelly to the OF.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Did anyone else hear the Din Din bell? I did!

By heath

August 6, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

hey, let’s not forget….go red birds!!!!! here’s to pujols going bonkers on the dads pitching the next few nights. (here! here!)

By Bob, Journalist

August 6, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

y 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 Efrim

August 6, 2007 6:22 PM | Link to this

Lew

When the other team has good speed, it sure helps when your closer has the ability to strike out the side when there is a 1 run lead. A lot can happen where balls in play can be mishandled by the infield because the other team has that speed. Strikeouts aren’t a requirement, but it sure helps.

By Richmond Braves- Stringer

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

To address a few points, someone earlier mentioned Blaine Boyer-he’s on the DL and was struggling mightily before his injury. I seriously doubt he gets the call to ATL even when rosters expand.

As someone whom has seen both Escobar and Lillibridge play quite often, edge goes to Escobar.

Will’s flawed observations are what happens when thinking all the answers are contained in a 5 minute perusal of a stat sheet,mainly consisting of staring at the OPS number endlessly.

I also know that most scouts from other org’s consider Escobar to have the higher upside.

Lillibridge should contributr to the braves in 08 but it will be as a bench player in a utility role.

By Efrim

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

Buddy Carlyle’s spilts facing lefties and righties

vs. Left: .333 Opp. BA/.975 Opp. OPS

vs. Right: .200 Opp. BA/.574 Opp. OPS

Good lord.

I wish we faced the Marlins more……

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this

Wicky Facts Of the 44 games pitched, he has only allowed earned runs in 8 games. He gave up 3 runs each in 4 of those 8 games. He has blown 5 saves total.

So, he has done it well in 18 save opportunities, and blown it in 5 games. He has also pitched successfully in other non-save situations. 17 games with no ER’s allowed, and 4 with runs allowed (8 runs total in those games.)

A few years ago, Smoltz really stunk it up in his first game of the year, and spent the entire year trying to recover his ERA.

So, I don’t think any of us said Wickman was better than Wagner. What we did say was that Wickman was what we had, and his overall performance results were not very different than Wagner’s.

ERA is way overrated. Whip tells you how many runners are allowed, which can indicate success or failure, BUT doesn’t necessarily state definitively success or failure. If a reliever comes in and allows two runners, but they do not score, he will have a high WHIP.

Personlly, I do not pay too much attention to a players ERA, but his ERA trends.

So, you see, you are ALL correct! Clear as mud, huh.

By BreamSlide

August 6, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson, Chipper and Texeira will have 7 hits b/n them tomorrow night. They will set the pace for the series.

By Wayne in Utah

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

Lew/Efrim: I think if you asked any of us on the blog, we would prefer a strikeout to a grounder in the hole. BUT, we don’t have a strikeout man as a closer. Why argue which is best, when we do NOT want to trust Soriano with that job right now. Maybe, next year.

So, a team can win with either type closer. Efrim, you are right, with a runner on third, I want a strikeout, but a pop up also gets the job done.

Let’s proceed to the next subject now.

By Eric from MO

August 6, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this

Anders what do you not understand? You have never made a point with any of your posts. Alot of times you try to be funny and it never works. Seriously does anyone other than Anders laugh at Anders posts. Probably not. I mean look at your 5:08 post. I assume you were trying to be funny with the caveman remark but did anyone laugh? Probably not.

By !!

August 6, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

Paladin I don’t think Wayne knows what you meant by the Did Din

By Andee

August 6, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

FWIW, I always watch Billy Wagner through the fingers over my eyes, just like I did with John Franco and Armando Benitez and every other Mets’ closer, going back probably to Tug McGraw.

Most of the Mets fans I know feel likewise; yeah, Billy has great numbers this year and he’s certainly an improvement over the bowl of wet kibble that was Braden Looper, but I never feel like it’s “game over” with Billywags on the mound, the way it was when Smoltz was your closer or Gagne was shutting them down for the Dodgers or Rivera was doing likewise for the Yankees at his peak. Billy always makes things a little too interesting for my taste.

But I wouldn’t trade him even up for Wickman, mainly because Wickman is older.

By Colin

August 6, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

4-2 road trip is what we need. 3-3 would be ok but anythin else means we are in trouble.

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

I hate off days…..

talk with you guys tomorrow night.

By Bobby

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

DOB- Why did Braves not put claim in on Joe Kennedy? He would have provided another option as 5th starter, but more importantly his splits vs LH’s look great and had successful year last year as reliever. Just wondering?

By Will

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

Yunel has the upside of average offensively and good defensively. Lillibridge has the upside of above-average offensively with good defense. What does Escobar have that Lillibridge doesn’t?

By ncscoots

August 6, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this

Wayne, too much logic, man, you can’t use that against our boys like Efrim! :-) Don’t you know that success only comes in one package, tied with the same bow, never to be changed by the wishes and behests of man? Therefore, Wickman is trash, because of his K rate. Let it be known throughout the universe, and let us bow down to that fact.

By Eric from MO

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

Efrim- I was throwing out Hoffman because when you said want a strikeout pitcher I assumed you meant a power pitcher and we all know Hoffman is not one. I mean his best pitch is a changeup. Sorry I misunderstood you.

By Ron

August 6, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

Wayne That conversation is getting irritating!!! They have been back and forth all the time since before the year started!!! They just need to CALM down just a little bit, and talk about something else!!! Both Closers are Good!!!

By Ron

August 6, 2007 6:54 PM | Link to this

Will The IT factor!!!

By Dave

August 6, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

Braves can’t win the East this week…but they could certianly lose it.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this

I’m back from Din Din, dinner or supper, take your pick. but, Wayne and I talk the same language.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this

NCScoots,

Wickman has given up a hit per inning in his career and has a 1.40 WHIP during is career as well. That enough logic for you?

He is fine as the closer for this team. He will do for the rest of the year. My posts started with the fact that he isn’t as good as Wagner. DOB wrote about it, I was just commenting about it. Easy folks. I worry much more about the back end of this rotation than I do our bullpen, offense or bench. James, Carlyle and…well..I guess Cormier now. Lance Cormier is our 5th starter. Sigh.

By Eric from MO

August 6, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this

Will- I want to ask you one question and be honest. Have you ever seen Lillibridge play?

By bill

August 6, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this

Waiver claim question. If a player is claimed and the two teams fail to complete a deal, can the next team in line put in a claim? I believe a player can be put on waivers twice. Just not sure.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

Will- I want to ask you one question and be honest. Have you ever seen Lillibridge play?

Eric from Mo I can’t answer for Will, but I have not. But, **Gil, from Mechanicsville has, and he gives us frequent reports..from what he says: the kid rakes, fields, and will be in the “bigs” soon.

Just thought you might like to know.

By Mike

August 6, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this

I understand your argument Will but so many people fall in love with statistics in baseball that they overlook how good a player someone is and how good a fit he is with a particular team. If I remember correctly neither Mccann or Francouer had exceptional minor league stats and look how they turned out. I agree with you that Lillilbridge has a few strengths that Escobar cant match. Lillibridge could hit 15-20 hr and steal 40 bases in the big leagues on a regular bases. But as many people overlook just because Escobar does not have the ability to steal 40 bases does not mean that he is slow, far from it. He is exceptionally quick with great range at short, not just good. I think its reasonable to assume that Escobar would hit over 300 playing everyday with 30-40 doubles a year playing solid defense and hitting in the clutch. That base that he stole in Arizona is not a play that average players make, he has oustanding baseball skills and instincts. And he was actually safe when he tried to tag up from third against the Astos, I think the umpire called him out because of the lead the braves had in the game and that play was seen as showing up the other team. My point is he just seems to know what to do in every situation. I am hoping though that Lillibridge can put up the numbers in the majors that he has in the minors. I would like to see him take over cf next year. I cant see them moving Kelly Johnson to the outfield again, I think hes just going to keep getting better at 2b and I also think that Lillibridge would be a much better outfielder than KJ was.

By ncscoots

August 6, 2007 7:22 PM | Link to this

Efrim, I’ve long admired your fan passion and your incredibly prolific bloggitudity, but, jeez, bro…in several posts you throw Wickman completely under a bus and state “he’s done”, or words to that effect, and then finish up with “he’s a fine closer for this team”.

And, no, a stat is not logic, though many wish it were so.

By Wolfpack Man

August 6, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this

DOB- You answered Ron’s question about Escobar or Lillibridge. And I would have to agree with you, BUT I HAVE ANOTHER QUESTION ALONG SIMILAR LINES:

Do you get the feeling that Lillibridge may be groomed in the offseason to make a move to centerfield next year?

I think based on what little I have seen (and it has been just basically ST), I think he could physically make it out there if he is able to make the mental adjustment. I could see him leading off next year if he is able to make the change.

As much as I like Willie, I don’t see him as an everyday leadoff, centerfielder. I just can’t see that happening. He is perfect for what he is doing right now and I think taking him out of that is sort of like asking a guy who is a 30 year sales rep to become CEO— He may do great, but it is likely that he may be in over his head.

Sometimes the worse thing you can do is ask someone to do more than they are capable of doing. If the Braves make Willie the everyday CF, I can see that happening.

By Chop Chop

August 6, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

Wick is 4 for 4 in save opportunities this year against the Mets and hasn’t allowed a run. If he keeps that up, I don’t care if he’s “done”. I’d personally rather have Wagner, but not at his price.

By ncscoots

August 6, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

bill, a player put on revocable waivers (the situation to which you refer) can be pulled back and traded, yes. But that means that player is off the waiver wire, therefore no “runner-up” claim. And that can only be used once a season. Any further waiver actions, on that player in that season, must be irrevocable waivers, meaning a claim goes through with no compensation.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

NCScoots,

I really just wanted to end the conversation about our closer.

By sheeesh

August 6, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

Will is your real name N8? What does Escobar have that Lillibridge doesn’t? What are you smokin’ boy? First of all, I doubt you have ever even seen Lillibridge play, so you have no sound basis of comparison. Secondly, it doesn’t sound like you have ever seen Escobar play, either. Escobar has been spectacular on so many levels in his limited playing time that it is hard to believe that he will not be the best player at whatever position he plays.

It’s so funny now to think back on all the comments about how great Salty was and how relatively little notice was given to Escobar. It was never a contest as to who the better player is — now and in the future. Salty was so good that the Braves had to give up him PLUS 3 more TOP prospects just to get a deal done. And I remember N8 talking about how he wouldn’t trade Salty for anything less than a Cy Young pitcher in his prime. LOL!!

So, come on Will, ‘fess up — are you really N8?

By Will

August 6, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this

Eric and Paladin, yes I have seen him play with Richmond this year.

Bill, no, a player can not be put on waivers twice. Once they are pulled back it is a certain amount of time before they can be traded or put back on waivers.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

I had a “creative” writing prof who said: “If you are not writing a novel and you can’t say it in 3 or 4 lines, don’t say it.” I wish some on here had taken her course.

By TexasBrave

August 6, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

Will- I want to ask you one question and be honest. Have you ever seen Lillibridge play?

Gil from Mechanicsville - I think you have spoke on this subject before. But would you please lend us your expert opinion. Whom do you like Escobar or Lillibridge at SS? If Escobar what would you do with Lillibridge and vice versa?

By S T I N K Y

August 6, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

They had no fear whatsoever of them, even though the Braves were on their way to winning the division title again. When the Marlins met them in the NLCS, they were confident they’d beat them, and did.

Someboudy is very anti-Braves. Yet he courts your favor.

By N8

August 6, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

bill

You asked:

“If a player is claimed and the two teams fail to complete a deal, can the next team in line put in a claim? I believe a player can be put on waivers twice.”

I don’t believe so. Once a team “claims” him, no other teams have the option to discuss a trade (or put their claim) for him. If the team that claimed him and the current team cannot agree on a trade, that player is “pulled” from waivers, assuring that said player will stay put for the remainder of the year.

That’s how the guys on ESPN radio (Buster Olney) explained it yesterday.

Recently Miguel Tejada was claimed (allegedly) by the White Sox. Baltimore and the White Sox could not work out a trade for him, so Baltimore pulled him off of waivers. Once they did that, Olney said that it assured he could not be traded until the off-season.

By KC

August 6, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

WILL TOM GLAVINE BE A BRAVE NEXT YEAR?

I say yes, for the following reasons:

• Glavine would probably love to end his career in Atlanta.

• Even if Hampton appears healthy and on track to return, the Braves will likely want to add one more quality starter.

• And last but not least… there’s a good chance it will be doable this year. Under the new ownership, the Braves appear to have more payroll liberty (no pun intended. Well… okay, maybe a little one). And Glavine will likely accept less this time around to finish his career here.

For right now, I refuse to cheer for the guy. I won’t applaud him when he comes to Turner Field as some sports commentators have suggested we Braves fans should. Right now, he still wears a Mets uniform. That’s all there is to it.

But if he wants to return to Atlanta, and is willing to take a little less money to do it (as he should have done 5 years ago)… great! If he can help the team, I’ll welcome him back.

Unless the payroll constraints haven’t been loosened to the extent I believe they have been… or if Glavine struggles the last 7 weeks of the season (leaving doubt as to how much he could help… Tom Glavine will be a Brave next season.

Whadya think?

By TexasBrave

August 6, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Wolfpack Man - It wouldn’t be much of an adjustment for Lillibridge to play Centerfield. He play there for two years in college before moving to short.

By Paladin

August 6, 2007 7:40 PM | Link to this

I’m off to nighty nite, so you kids be good. And don’t wake me if it is not a check from the government. and hugs and kisses to all you munchkins.

By KC

August 6, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

Wolfpack Man: I know you weren’t asking me, but no… I don’t think we’ll see Lillibridge in center next year.

For one thing, if you look at his numbers between Miss. and Richmond this year… he is striking out an awful lot. Too much for a leadoff man. If you project his (minor league) numbers this year over 600 at-bats (a very typical number of AB’s for a leadoff man), you would have about 140 strikeouts. That’s a lot of whiffin’ for a speedster.

Also, from what I hear, he is a gold-glove caliber Shortstop. So I think they’ll be reluctant to move him, even if he’s blocked at his natural position.

Let’s see what happens at shortstop next year. If Renteria can be traded for a quality pitcher, there’s a good chance he will be, since they need to make room for Escobar. In addition to the talent they could get for Renteria, it would also free up some payroll (one more reason I think Glavine will be back next year).

Anyway, point being… if Escobar has a full-time job next year, Lillibridge could slip into the role Escobar is currently playing. Lillibridge could be the backup at SS and 3B next year. It would give the Braves more speed off the bench as well.

I would not look for Lillibridge in center. Mike Cameron is much more likely.

By Will

August 6, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this

No, my name isn’t n8. This is the first time I have ever commented on this before.

Do you really believe that Escobar will be the best at his position in baseball? That is an absolute joke. And ask anyone who is not a Braves fan who will be the better player out of Yunel or Salty and I am sure they will say Salty without any hesitation whatsoever.

By Todd A

August 6, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

Smoltzie’s going in the second game? Darn, and I was all psyched up for the Cormier-Perez showdown.

I don’t want to see Wickman anywhere near the mound on this road trip, especially in Hudson’s game.Bobby needs to keep Dotel available, just in case.

We may as well enjoy Edgar’s offense the rest of this season, because he will surely be dealt to make room for Escobar.He’s just too good to be platooning with KJ right now.

By S T I N K Y

August 6, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

WILL TOM GLAVINE BE A BRAVE NEXT YEAR?

Somebody needs to just say no to crack-pipes! Just asking that question means that one lacks the critical mass needed to buy beer. Please, check into the nearest substance abuse center and get help. Please.

By Will

August 6, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Cameron whiffs an awful lot as well. I’d rather them just move Frenchy to center, Brandon to right, and save the money for pitching. That is probably 9-12 mill over 3 years that would be saved.

By Is That Boog!?

August 6, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this

Hey, why is Boog doing the Cardinals Padres game on ESPN? Fox network not paying him enough so he has to moonlight? :o)

By flange1

August 6, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

KC,

I think your Glavine post is very interesting. I can see both parties wanting TG to finish his career as a Brave.

Then, 2 posts later you sat the Braves could/should trade Edgar for a starter. Without Hampton, that gives us Smoltz, Hudson, James, Glavine, new starter for Edgar, and then our other normal cast of characters..What gives? We would then have 5 good starters + Hampton. COULD THAT BE POSSIBLE????

By Alex

August 6, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this

I don’t want Benedict Glavine back in a Braves uniform. Once a traitor, always a traitor. Let him retire as a NY Mut and be done with it.

The Braves need to deal for one of the young Oakland A’s pitchers next year…John S. needs to work his magic and bring in a young pitcher, instead of a washed up .500 lefty who is near the end of his career.

Rich Harden and Danny Harem come to mind…I wonder what it would take to get one of those guys?

Maybe they can make a run at Santana after 2008…by clearing some payroll…we are in need of another stud number 1 or 2 starter, maybe Roy Oswalt? A guy like that is needed…as Smoltz will probably be done in 1-2 years, and they would need to replace him with a frontline starter.

I don’t see anyone in the minor league system of the Braves that has front line starter stuff right now, unless they get lucky in the draft next year, a big move is needed to bring in an ace starting pitcher!

Not Benedict Glavine!

Make it happen John, work those trades in the off season!

By KC

August 6, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

S T I N K Y:

Despite my being stoned on Jolt Cola right now… my point is a valid one. There is an excellent chance Glavine will be back for one more year as a Brave.

By bigboi

August 6, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

good nite Paladin, sweet dreams. Aren’t you gonna take a dump before going to bed?

By KC

August 6, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

If the Braves don’t pick up a center-fielder next year (assuming Andruw leaves)… what do ya’ll think about Willie Harris starting in Center against righties, with Francoeur starting in Center when Harris isn’t in the lineup (against lefties)?

By Shaun

August 6, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist,

Let me clarify. The D-Backs’ offense has been bad thus far. I see no reason to believe they’ll get significantly better. And I see no reason to believe their pitching will get significantly better. Right now, they should be under .500, according to their run differential. Even if you do not like to judge a team based primarily on run differential instead of actual record, you have to admit that a 10 game difference in expected wins (based on run differential) and actual wins is huge. Therefore, I don’t think it’s very likely at all for the D-Backs to stay where they are. Not likely meaning a lot of things would have to go very right (as far as they are concerned) for them to stay where they are.

By Will

August 6, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

Yunel Escobar would be the basis of a deal with the A’s for a starter probably because of their lack of a decent shortstop. Also, KK is the type of player Beane likes. Ton of walks, ton of power.

By NCBravesFan

August 6, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

KC I doubt it - the Braves need to go young on their starting staff. They need to get a young stud that’s going to be around for a while.

I like Tom and it’s great that he got his 300th last night … but I don’t think he would ultimately improve the Braves pitching staff that much over the pieces they have in the minors.

He had his chance this year and he said no. I don’t think he’ll be asked again.

By KC

August 6, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Alex: Sure, it would be wonderful to get one of the great young starters you listed… but it’s very unlikely.

First of all, no one trades good, young, proven starters. Also, the big trading chips the Braves could afford to deal are in the Texas Rangers system now. Unless they could get a deal done for Renteria and a couple mid-level prospects… I can’t see it. But again, the main thing is that it’s extremely unlikely any such pitcher will come available.

Regardless of how you feel about him now… Glavine makes a lot of sense next year.

By Lillibridge

August 6, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

Yunel is the better player now, but give me a chance, and I think you Braves fans will like what I bring to the table! Centerfield, shortstop, second base? Doesn’t matter. I will get it done. I do need to cut down on the K’s though.

Go Yunel and Go Braves!

By KC

August 6, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

NCBravesFan: As I just posted… it’s very hard to find good, young starting pitching, and I’m not sure what we’ve got in our system is major league ready.

If the Braves can get a young quality starter… I agree, that’s certainly the best possible scenario. But I’m not sure it is possible, where as Glavine likely will be.

By Lucas...

August 6, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

KC- I don’t think that Harris is going to be playing center next year. I love the guy to death, and he does bring alot to the club, but the team would be foolish to depend on him for the same numbers he has this and a major role next year. He is playing way over his head. I could easily see him platooning again next year, but nothing more than that.

By KC

August 6, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this

Will: The A’s aren’t interested in trading their young starters. Especially not Dan Haren. If they were willing to part with him… he’d be in a Braves uniform right now, Salty would be in an A’s uni, and Tex would be in Anaheim.

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

Slow night. KC I don’t think you can put two different players in CF, as in your example. Gotta breed some consistency at key positions, I think.

I like what Willie has been doing this year for us, but I don’t see him being a long term CF solution. Maybe he could be the caretaker while we see if Shafer develops into a major league potential prospect.

I really like a couple of other guys that might be available: Duffy, Church, Kotsay, etc. There are also a couple of decent FA’s out there: Cameron or Rowand would be good choices. We also need to look inward to Frenchy full-time or to Blanco, if he proves to be capable with the stick!

Whaddya think, my friend? (I will be back in an hour or so.)

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 6, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

If Glavine were a Braves in 2008 and Hampton resurrects his career , the Braves would have a rotation capable of blowing the N.L. east right out of the water. The question is , do the real Braves fans want to win bad enough to suck it up and welcome Glavine with open arms.

By KC

August 6, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this

Lucas: OF COURSE he’s playing over his head. No one thinks this guy’s going to hit .340 next year. BUT, I think he’s convinced everyone that he can play regularly.

If Harris platooned in center field next year, I’m sure he’d hit for a decent average, and would play a very respectable center field when he’s out there.

Again, the platoon would be Harris starting in center against lefties, and Frenchy starting in center against righties. Of course that would necessitate someone else playing right field against lefties, and I’m not sure who that would be, but I’m sure they could find a decent platooner who can play right.

Again, that’s just one option if they fail to land an everyday center-fielder (though, I think they will).

By Lucas...

August 6, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this

KC- Also, I left this out. I don’t think Bobby would move around a major part of his team on a nearly everyday basis. I would imagine that it would be very difficult to play center one day and left the next. That is why good utility players are hard to find. I just don’t see it happening. Creative idea though

By Tomahawkin' Again

August 6, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this

DOB, I was at the stadium formerly known as Pro Player Stadium formerly known as Joe Robbie Stadium for the middle 3 games of the ‘97 NLCS vs. the Marlins. Forget the Eric Gregg joke strikezone in game 5, that whole series was the typical Braves in the ‘90’s postseason series. Braves outscore the Marlins in the series, outhit them (I believe the Fish hit below .200 for the series), but bonehead after bonehead play by the Braves (I remember McGriff and Chipper making huge errors in the 1st inning of gm 1, Andruw letting a simple line-drive fly over his head in gm 3, Glavine not finding the plate in gm 6). About the only good thing I do remember is kicked back by the pool at the old Marina Marriott with a cool beverage, reading the Sun-Sentinel and being in awe of the award winning writings of one David O’Brien. Lets hope 2007 is deja vu all over again, but with the good guys with the tomahawks on their chests celebrating a National League pennant in October. It all starts tomorrow night. The denizens are ready, the Man in Black is ready…Beat the Mets!

By Lucas...

August 6, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

I don’t think that real braves fans would have to suck it up. Glavine is the one exception. I don’t think we would welcome him back with open arms but not because he left the mets but because he is old, and not as good as he once was. He could have came back if he could, but the situation wasn’t right.

I personally think that it is a disgrace to boo Glavine when he comes here.

By Is That Boog!?

August 6, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Glavine back with the Braves next year would be a good move. I’m only basing my opinion on where I think he will be talent wise vs what the Braves need.

One thing though I think that should be mentioned (NCBRAVESFAN) Glavine wanted to come back this year. He gave the Braves plenty of notice. NY actually gave him the opportunity to do the deal with the Braves and didn’t push Glavine. Glavine gave the Braves a date that he had to know something so that he could let the Mets know. The Braves simply didn’t meet that date. From all accounts Glavine could have played for the Braves for 8 mil instead of the 11 mil he got from the Braves. He was going to get 3 mil walk away money from the Mets plus if the Braves could come up with 8 mil, he would essentially make the same money as what he got from the Mets. Giles wasn’t going to be resigned so that was 3 mil they could have saved. Why or how they couldn’t come up with the other five mil before pitchers reported for spring (which was essentially the Glavine deadline) beats me. I wasn’t involved but I just felt the Braves dropped the ball on that one. Here was a pitcher for the rotation that they could have used. He was an 11 Mil pitcher they could have gotten for perhaps 8 mil. Didn’t make sense that the Braves couldn’t come up with the deal. Glavine was practically begging the team to pick him up. And from many accounts, it sounded like the lack of communication between the Braves and Glavine that marred the first contract fiasco that sent him to the Mets, happend again. People didn’t make phone calls. Glavine and his agent claimed the Braves never got back to him. They didn’t call and say, “we’re trying to clear some payroll, hang in there with us on this”………they just didn’t let him know anything. Just never got back. So what was Glavine to do?

Think what you may about Glavine. Some people will never forget the past and that is their right to do so, but never say that he didn’t try to come back to the Braves this year and he gave the team every opportunity to get the deal done. Some hope he never comes back. Some wish he would go into the HOF in a Mets hat. In my opinion, we dropped the ball on this one. He would look pretty good right now plugged into that 3 hole in the rotation.

But next year??? He’s gonna be a year older and not sure I would want him then.

By KC

August 6, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this

WayneInUtah: Good points all.

Yeah… I’m just spitballing here. I don’t think Frenchy will be in center, and I don’t think Willie Mays Hays will be our starting center-fielder either. I’m pretty sure the Braves will go out and find a center-fielder.

If they don’t get a marque or semi-marque guy for center (Cameron, Damon, etc.)… then they’ll probably look for a defensive specialist… someone like a Mark Kotsay.

Again, this assumes that Andruw will be gone, though I don’t think that’s a foregone conclusion. Andruw’s market value isn’t going to be quite as high as Boras hopes. And if the best non-Braves offer out there is in the 16-17 million a season range… I think there’s a real chance the Braves will re-sign him. Especially if they get the sense they won’t be able to re-sign Tex.

Don’t get me wrong… I think there’s at least a 60-70% chance that this is AJ’s last year here, but I don’t think that’s as certain as many others believe.

By bill

August 6, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

Thanks, all for the explanation of wavier rule. It’s so d— confusing.

By Lucas...

August 6, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

KC When a guy has been a journeyman for his whole career, then has one good year, would you depend on him to play a major role? He will be doing exactly what he is doing now. And if i’m not mistaken, he signed as a minor league free agent so doesn’t that make him a free agent at the end of the year? Not sure about that but I think so. He is not going to platoon with frenchy… No way.

By Will

August 6, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

Haren will not be going anywhere for a couple years but I would not be surprised for them to look at trading Harden.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 6, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this

First, I just want to thank Lew publicly for the wonderful artwork that goes with the Wurlitzer. I shall hang it proudly on my wall. Lew, you are truly and artist of the first rank. I encourage all to strive for such recognition as the rewards are worth it.

Now baseball….. Always remember, if you are going to be the best, you have to beat the best. The upcoming road trip is not do or die to any of the three clubs involved but it sure can go a long way towards pointing to the eventual winner in the East.

Many said they thought the wild card would come out of the West but I think those teams will beat up each other too. That leaves the Cubs and the Brewers in the cat bird seat.

On Lillibridge, I agree he is not where Escobar is right now as far as ability but he is an up and coming player who very well could be playing second base in the majors. The Braves made a good pick when they chose him to be included in the LaRoache deal. I have seen him about 10 times now and I really like the kid’s game.

I doubt the Braves would have him play centerfield but he could take Kelly’s spot and have Johnson move to the outfield. Or the Braves could simply use him in a trade to get a player they need. For sure he is a better player than Woodward.

He will be in Atlanta in September so a lot of you will get to see for yourself. The kid is a talent.

By KC

August 6, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

Lucas: I agree. It’s unlikely. I don’t think Frenchy will be moved.

Though, the more I think about it… if the Braves strike out on all their other preferred center-field options, we may well see Willie Harris out there next year, just for his defensive abilities.

Again though… that’s only if they strike out on their preferred options.

By sheeesh

August 6, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this

Escobar compares quite favorably to Jeter. He will be Jeter’s equal, if not better, in his career. I admit that maybe saying he will be the best at his position may be a bit too much(especially if he stays at short), but the point is that he will be a phenomenal player and among the best — no doubt about it. Lillibridge could turn out to be the better player — who knows? But sight unseen in the majors to this point, I would not bet against Escobar if Lilli is the competition.

Salty will be an average catcher, at best. The Braves were anxious to dump him now because they knew if they let him play out the rest of the season with the Braves, his performance would have flattened out (it had already begun to) and they may not have been able to use him as the key player in the deal. They avoided playing him as much as possible when Tex talks heated up so that he would not get hurt and would not do anything on the field to cause his value to drop. Escobar, on the other hand, was used relatively liberally because they knew there was no way they were about to trade him.

By NCBravesFan

August 6, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Is That Boog?! Thanks for the remider on that - you are absolutely correct.

I agree with you that Glavine would not likely add much to the rotation next year, especially when you consider how much he would cost relative to a kid that would put up pretty similar numbers.

But you’re right, he would look awesome in the 3-hole this year!

By Lucas...

August 6, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

KC You may very well be right with Willie Harris but I hope not. I really think we will fill that role from within. I see pitching being the main focus in the offseason and the transition to our youth.

But thats next year. Can’t look to far into the future.

By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist

August 6, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

journalist would like to vent. on the way home from the dairy queen today, this journalist found this journalist in a long line of traffic. eventually, this journalist could see the problem ahead: bicyclists! two of them! riding along in the road while wearing little brightly colored plastic suits. plastic pants, plastic shirts, plastic everywhere! and the tires on these bicycles were very thin tires. how could these tires hold up? and then journalist thought, these people are getting fit. yes, exercising. yes, stupid riding in traffic, but exercising. and why would anyone wear these little plastic suits out in public? are such suits chafing? do such suits attract others of the same persuasion?

and then journalist thought: wicky could use some of this. and then the image appeared … . oh, the humanity! wicky in a tight little plastic riding suit trying to ride along the roadway on tiny little tires as passing motorists jeer at wicky and dive into the lanes of the rotund one. imagine the tumble wicky could take!

these images were so unsettling that jimmy smith has been unable to eat the ice cream purchased at the dairy queen today. instead, it has gone in the freezer for later consumption. maybe during the braves game tomorrow.

these little bicyclists must be banned from the streets if they persist in riding in a lane of traffic while wearing little plastic pants and shirts.

now, baseball … some say barry bonds is not deserving but some say barry has given baseball a shot in the arm.

By S T I N K Y

August 6, 2007 8:39 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah, not a bad RX for center, kind of like this year at first when we dumped the 3.X mil firstbaseman we had so that we could pick up the 9.X mil firstbaseman who’ll make 14.x mil next year.

And the cheaper dude was better when he was on his meds.

That JS sure is slick.

By chrisklob

August 6, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

For anyone interested in the wild card race, the Cards have thrown a snowman on the board against the Padres in the bottom of the fifth (still no outs). With luck, we might pick up a half game in the WC race tonight.

By Todd A

August 6, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

“If Glavine were a Braves in 2008 and Hampton resurrects his career , the Braves would have a rotation capable of blowing the N.L. east right out of the water. The question is , do the real Braves fans want to win bad enough to suck it up and welcome Glavine with open arms.”

I wanted Glavine back this year, I admit it.But, when he resigned with the Mets, especially after he didn’t give the Braves enough time to clear roster space to accommodate his salary, I was done with him….for good.Good riddance.

Whatever Hampton provides the Braves next year will be gravy(if he even pitches again).I just hope he’s an insurance policy, not part of the rotation plans for ‘08.

By Will

August 6, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

Sheesh, that is the most insane thing I have ever read in my life. I am speechless for how ridiculous what you just said was. Yunel will be better than Jeter and Salty will be an average catcher at best. I have lost all respect for your opinion because of that.

By Eric from MO

August 6, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

Paladin” **Gil, from Mechanicsville has, and he gives us frequent reports..from what he says: the kid rakes, fields, and will be in the “bigs” soon.”

Thanks but my point is so many times people talk about how great these prospects are but they have never seen them play. Remember Marte, he was suppose to be greater than Chipper. Remember Andy Pratt he was suppose to be a future Cy Young Winner. Im not even sure if he ever made it to the big leagues. Im from the Show-Me-State and I rarely care about Scouting reports. Unless I see them preform for myself at the Big League Level I really dont care about them. That is why I will take Escobar over Lillibridge.

By Eric from MO

August 6, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

Im pretty sure the Mets have an option on Glavine and I dont think they will let the Braves have him if they can help it.

By Todd A

August 6, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

“Yunel Escobar would be the basis of a deal with the A’s for a starter probably because of their lack of a decent shortstop. Also, KK is the type of player Beane likes. Ton of walks, ton of power.”

Trading Escobar would be absolute lunacy.You can’t teach “clutch”.Either a player can perform in pressure situations or he can’t.I call it the “IT” factor.Justice had “It”. Javy had “It”. So does Frenchy, and McCann (to a certain degree).You don’t trade guys like that.Just give these guys another #2 type starter and this team can play for a WS next year,even minus Andruw(especially minus Andruw).We can package Edgar and a couple of prospects to acquire a top caliber guy imo.

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

Nice job by St Louis. Braves will be 2 out in the loss column from the Wild Card.

Just heard Buster Olney on ESPN Radio say this is as big an August series as you can get.

I guess he is right. The next series in Atlanta will be bigger. At least I hope that is the case.

By Adirondackdave

August 6, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

It’s probably been reported a few times in this blog but the last time I looked, Salty was 1 for 19 in his first games for the Rangers and playing first base. Their GM may be swallowing hard these days, although it’s way too early to evaluate the trade from each club’s point of view.

By Yars

August 6, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

Boog calling the Padres/Cards game with Dusty Baker on espn. I thought I was hallucinating for a minute. It’s Boog alright. Boog getting 2 checks. 1 from fox, another from espn.

By woogidy

August 6, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

check out the vick article on espn.com It’s rediculous.

By Todd A

August 6, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this

“For anyone interested in the wild card race, the Cards have thrown a snowman on the board against the Padres in the bottom of the fifth”

Ummm…I threw up a snowman today too.On the back nine.

By chrisklob

August 6, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

Eric from Mo, there is an option on Glavine for next year but it is a player option, not a team option. That option is only guaranteed once Glavine hits 160 IP which he is very likely to attain as he currently has 144 IP.

By TexasBrave

August 6, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

Since we don’t have a game to talk about today and we have talked the Mets series to death. Does anyone know where one could find a list of next years free agents? Especially pitchers!!

By Ron H

August 6, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this

Man, i didn’t want to face Maine. That boy can pitch! And as much as the OFFENSE is getting hyped here, doesn’t everyone think that this series is going to be a low scoring one?! We’re going to have Smoltz vs. Hernandez, and Huddy vs. Maine in the final two games!

Let’s just hope Buddy is on, and that Smoltz shakes off his last outing. Hudson…well, let’s just hope it’s ACE hudson out there against Maine.

Man, this should be a good series!

Gooo Braves!

By Savannah Guy

August 6, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

Mo in the boonies: BTW, I posted a reply to your last…on the last (“It’s Hot”) blog.

By N8

August 6, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

sheeesh

“And I remember N8 talking about how he wouldn’t trade Salty for anything less than a Cy Young pitcher in his prime. LOL!!”

You have to understand (of course I really don’t expect anything to get through that thick skull of yours), that when I made those comments, I was assuming that with Thorman sucking, and seemingly no payroll hike coming (honestly, did you REALLY think LM would allow a trade for Tex?), I was thinking towards next year, with Salty at 1B.

Having said all that, I STILL think that when it’s all said and done (you know….when Tex leaves after next year and we FAIL to make the playoffs this year and Salty is tearing it up in Texas), that the Rangers got the best of that deal.

All of that changes, of course, if JS is giving permission (and the cash) to sign Tex long term, assuming he’s interested (or should I say Bora$$ let’s him) sign before the end of next year. Because anybody with more brains than the scarecrow, knows that there is NO WAY IN HELL, we win a bidding war for his services.

So in 2009, get back to me on who got the better end of this trade. Obviously right now we did (at 1B). But we are now a WHOPPING 3-2 team with Tex on the roster. Looks like we’ve really “turned it up” a notch, haven’t we? Not quite the McGriff trade yet, like some predicted, huh? I suppose it could turn out to be, if it’s discovered that Tex has Babe Ruth like abilities, that allow him to play 1B 4 out of 5 games, and be a starting pitcher in the other.

Even you have to admit, even as soon as next year, Salty could be “dollar for dollar” the more valuble player.

Ironic, that everybody said the Rangers wanted him as a catcher, yet he’s played 1B in 4 out of the 5 games since the trade. Of course their a rebuilding team, that can be patient with him at 1B. Unlike us. We’re a contender, right?

As far as Escobar, in hindsight for myself, and many others, the reason he was deemed expendable, was due to the depth at the position in the system Starting with Renteria, continuing with Escobar, down to Lillibridge, and Andrus.

Teams USUALLY trade from a position of strength. If the Braves brass truely never saw Salty as a 1B, then that’s what we did, since we’re set at catcher for a long time.

DOB, even went as far as saying Salty probably wouldn’t be traded, and give the Kelly Johnson chance to learn the position (1B) in the off season, which I’m quite certain, he’ll be successful at. If Ryan Klesko can play in this league for 13 years, surely Salty can, huh?

When it all comes down to it, the trade of Salty for Tex was a good one (unless Harrison and Andrus turn out to be studs and we lose Tex after next year). But you’re right about one thing, judging by our pitching since Tex has been here, I STILL would’ve rather had a STUD starting pitcher with Salty at 1B, over Tex at 1B and Cormier and Co. in the 5th spot. Especially if Smoltz is hurting more than he’s leading on, which I suspect to be the case.

By Yars

August 6, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

Where is Lillibridge going to play when he’s ready for the show? I don’t think his future will be in Atlanta. We’ve got 2 young players in KJ & Escobar that will play 2B & SS, respectively. There’s really no need for Renteria. Edgar is a solid player don’t get me wrong, but like Andruw, he’s likely gone after the season. The Braves have gave no indication they plan on moving Lillibridge to the OF. Chipper not retiring anytime soon. He’ll man 3B for another 4 years I would think.

By chrisklob

August 6, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave, click here for a list of potential free agents from mlbtraderumors or here for a list from Cot’s Baseball Contracts.

By Yars

August 6, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave……I would try www.mlbtraderumors.com for a list of next years FA. Check their archives.

By Savannah Guy

August 6, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

Gil in Mechanicsville Congrats on the big “W”. Well deserved. Can you descibe the art and of whom…my memory is fading. By the way, catching up on the last blog…and my reply to one of yours, I noticed I left a vital word out of my line. If you just insert the word “discussion” after the word “union”. Didn’t want to let that typo go misunderstood or, whatever.

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

N8 Do you really think that the Rangers are going to leave Salty at first. I would be exceptionally surprised if they did. Why trade for a stud catcher with the intention of playing him at a position that is easier to fill (first).

Wayne’s prediction: Next year, Salty is penciled in as the Rangers catcher for the next 10 years.

I also think that if we don’t experience too many injuries (Smoltz, Renteria, Wickman, etc), we will be in the hunt for this year and next. That is why JS made this deal. If you have strength in your organization, why not put it to work to get you into the playoffs?

Love to see Buddy beat the Braves killer tomorrow.

Also, N8, it is a little early to grade the “Tex Team” don’t you think?

By Efrim

August 6, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

For anyone interested, check out the Danville Braves pitchers stats. A lot of these kids are only 19 and 20 years old, but good lord the numbers are staggering. All of them, or most, are left handed. Neftali Feliz used to be apart of the squad till he was dealt. He was the lone promising righty. Here are their names and ridiculous K/BB ratios:

Jose Ortegano 41/8 in 38.1 innings Edgar Osuna 47/9 in 36.2 innings Chad Rodgers 29/9 in 30.1 innings Jeff Locke 46/6 in 39.1 innings Steve Evarts 12/2 in 17 innings

Cole Rohrbough was promoted to Rome and had a solid debut where he pitched 5 innings, struck out 3, walked none, gave up 2 hits and 1 earned run. Rohrbough had struck out 58 batters in 33.2 innings while only walking 8 for Danville. All six of these young pitchers are left handed and throw hard.

By Big Mike

August 6, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

You bumpkins have quite immaginations. Can’t wait to see the spin you put on it after your “Bravos” get the ** kicked out of them. GO METS

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

KC I would never pay AJ over 12 million per for over 3 years. I would rather invest the $$ in Tex.

AJ is not committed to improving his skills. He lives on his talent, without much thought of keeping up with mundane things like his conditioning. Why else did he wait until his contract year to lose weight. To me, that was very telling.

By Savannah Guy

August 6, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

Braveheart: Cuz…catching up on blog, saw your 4:06 yesterday. Thanks but do not…DO NOT burn the RROE. It’s a classic. Really is. Funny as hell. And appreciate your comments on my ID/Registration treatise: Hey, I made my case (novelette…guilty) and I have rested that case. Said, Done. It all seems ok with the denizens and I’m not into attacking windmills like that one alone. Would not be a good use of time or energy.

Bob, Journalist: Thanks for the very kind words and the good note. Life is good…and way too short to get bent over insignificant matters. Anyhow, your last comparison of illegals to drug dealers was good. Hey, here’s one a friend just sent me. Thought you might add to your “illegal” file: The American Indians found out what happens when you don’t control immigration!

Now, about that Polonius and Alberta…

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

Efrim I too have noticed the K/BB rate for our low minors pitchers. I suspect that most low minor leagues have high K rates. Just a guesss.

Evarts and Locke were highly touted along with Hanson and Rasmus.

Let’s hope that a decent percentage of them continue to develop.

By N8

August 6, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

sheeesh

Forgot to add this to the last one.

Yes. I wasn’t for trading Salty for anything less than a “Cy Young” pitcher. But if you look long and hard enough, you’ll find AT LEAST 10 posts since Escobar got called up, where I suggested trading Renteria for pitching help THIS YEAR, and giving the SS job to Escobar.

In fact I specifically remember DOB doing all but point and laugh at the notion of trading the teams best hitter, to replace him with a rookie.

But if rumors are to be believed, apparantly Bobby and JS have/had enough confidence in Escobar to use Edgar as trade bait.

I never did and still don’t think Escobar will have Renteria’s power anytime soon, but hands down his defense is more electric than the aging Renteria. Edgar is steady and consistant, but Escobar gets to more balls and some of them he gets to, he can actually make the throw with his cannon of an arm.

Keeping Salty over Tex would’ve been for monetary reasons. Same could be said for trading Renteria and promoting Escobar. Yes, Renteria is cheap in this market (especially with Boston flipping most of the bill), but it doesn’t get much cheaper than the league minimum.

I can all but guarantee that Renteria gets moved in the offseason make room to give the job to Escobar.

Like I said, when I made a comment in June referring to doing just that, I was scoffed at and ridiculed.

The only question I have for the scoffers, is this: Are you scoffing at JS allegedly thinking along the same lines?

I’m man enough to admit when I’m wrong, and when an “idea” was a bad one, or even a simple case of jumping the gun. But are you man enough to admit when I’m right about something, if thinking along the same lines as JS can be considered “being right”?

I doubt it.

Have a nice day.

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

Big Mike It seems you have big expectations for your Mets! Let’s see if Big Tex has an answer for Mr. Perez tomorrow night.

By chrisklob

August 6, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

I would also like to offer thanks to Lew for the drawing that he sent me. No, I did not win a Wurlitzer (too lofty a goal for a journeyman blogger such as myself). Lew, out of the kindness of his heart, sent a very nice picture that he had drawn of a player that we both know personally and like very much.

Lew, thanks again. My son and I both love it and can’t wait to frame it and hang it in his room!

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

Whoever did the duck joke, my family loved it!

By S T I N K Y

August 6, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

N8, Have you ever looked at the Ranger’s infield grass? It always looks like a bunch of STEERS and N8s have been trampling it.

Not that I wish Salty any harm, but that nasty heat will f* over a big guy.

By N8

August 6, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

Wayne

“Also, N8, it is a little early to grade the “Tex Team” don’t you think?”

Let me clarify my statement regarding the “Tex Team”.

I was being a little sarcastic when making the 3-2 comment. Of course, judging by what Tex has done since he’s been here, it’s NOT his fault. But like it or not, our offense was “fine” without him (as long as everybody was healthy and Andruw wasn’t batting cleanup). The pitching was the problem.

It still is. Especially if Smoltz isn’t healthy. Kinda like in 1996 when we got Denny Neagle. Why? Was the starting pitching our problem that year?

Our offense is down right nasty with Tex in the lineup. Make no mistake about it…..I LIKE IT.

But there’s only so many teams we’ll be able to mash our way to victory against.

Not to mention that Dotel seems to be a waste of the worthles Kyle Davies. Of course, due to Davies being literally worthless to us, that move is a wash, IMO.

Can we still make the playoffs? Sure.

Can we still win the East? Sure.

Will we actually do either? I’ll believe it when I see it.

Like I said, unless Tex can pitch (or JS has a waiver wire deal in place), I’m not so sure adding Tex to an already potent offense will give us any difference on a nightly basis.

That doesn’t mean that I’m against the trade, or think it was a mistake.

Then again, with the lack of pitching available to be traded for or called up, maybe JS did the next best thing, which is to stack the lineup 8 deep, which he’s done.

Like the rest of you, I’m just gonna sit back and watch and see how it all turns out.

Of course there is a slight possibility of me complaining along the way. :-)

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

N8 I too thought that it might be smart to trade Edgar for a decent starter. It seems that they tried. So, it looks like you and JS think alike!!

Actually, after you got your A$$ reamed, I kept my thought to myself!!! I might not be the sharpest pencil in the drawer, but I am not blind either!

Nice of you to take one from DOB for the team.

On that thought: Renteria for Garland would have been a steal for us, what with the price of starters these days.

By chrisklob

August 6, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

N8, I also floated the idea of trading Renteria for starting pitching out there probably two months ago and was soundly throttled for it. He is a great bargain at $6m a year plus Boston’s share.

I still stand by it, especially since Yunel has proved that he can play in the bigs and will be shocked if he’s a Brave next year.

By Wolfpack Man

August 6, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

KC

I have to respectively disagree on Cameron being in center for the Braves. First of all, he is going to be pretty expensive and his offensive numbers are average at best and will be below average for the kind of money he will bring in free agency. He is basically a (.250 20 HR 80 RBI guy with 160 K’s a year).

I think Lillibridge will either be traded, or moved to another position(possibly OF). Regardless of whether or not he were to hit leadoff, I don’t think the Braves are opposed to him changing positions if he can fill a major need and he has played CF in college. Kelly or Escobar could hit leadoff if necessary.

I don’t think the Braves would mention anything about a position change until after the season, simply because a SS with the offensive ability of Lillbridge are hard to come by. (ie. He would probably bring more in a trade as a SS rather than a CF).

Having said that, if the Braves feel Lillbridge could man CF for the next 5-6 years, why would you not wait, see what he will bring you as a SS (trade wise) and if it is not what you want then in the offseason, start the process of him switching positions.

By The Truth Hurts

August 6, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

N8, you’re certainly not going to begin to judge the Tex trade based on a 3-2 record, are you? Win that 12-11 game and we’re 4-1 and everybody’s going, “we’re fired up.”

The posts I keep seeing from many regulars is that they’d wish JS would’ve gotten starting pitching…keep Salty (how exactly, to get a SP?)…that we’d be better off with Who Knows Who pitching in lieu of Cormier, et al.

Fine. Great.

Now, tell me, who exactly did you want to trade for? There was NO starting pitching to be had! How many times do you have to hear it?

Arroyo? The Reds told him he wasn’t being traded. Buehrle? Signed. Contreras? No thanks.

There were TWO starting pitchers traded in a market that was begging for help at the position. Kyle Lohse. Matt Morris (a better hitter than pitcher?)

I’ll tell you what: let’s force other teams to trade to us…because..well, we’re the Braves and they’re not.

Enough with “we need starting pitching.” Duh. So does everyone else. Get over it.

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

Actually, N8, I’d say you were more than likely right. And I agree with you about the very real chance, even likelihood, that Edgar will be traded in the offseason, not because anything he’s done (he’s been outstanding, surpassing expectations), but simply because they must open a spot for Escobar, who’s too good not to play. And he’s a shortstop, not a 2B.

Kelly has been adequate-to-good defensively and outstanding at the plate, already one of the best hitting 2Bs in the league.

By Todd A

August 6, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this

“Jose Ortegano 41/8 in 38.1 innings Edgar Osuna 47/9 in 36.2 innings Chad Rodgers 29/9 in 30.1 innings Jeff Locke 46/6 in 39.1 innings Steve Evarts 12/2 in 17 innings”

I remember when Odaliz Perez, Kevin Minchey, and Bruce Chen were all dominating in A ball too.I couldn’t wait for them to get up here.You never know.

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this

N8 If we could go into JS’s mind, I think you would see that you hit the nail on the head. If it is too expensive to add a quality starter, then why not create an offensive juggernaut. An “8” to be reckoned with EVERY night!

As for the other players we added, I like the work of Mahay, and I don’t think that Dotel is as bad as that one game makes him look. I think he is another Wickman/Yates/Paronto type. Not great, but most of the time, not too bad.

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

N8 and others: Again, if no starters (or only a couple, and they weren’t any great shakes) were traded at the deadline, then your point is basically moot about there being a need for starting pitching. Because you CAN’T TRADE FOR AN IMPACT STARTER if the team with said starter ISN’T WILLLING TO TRADE for anything less than a king’s ransom. The starters available weren’t worth what teams wanted for them, which is why so few of them were traded. The Braves and others said, no way I’m paying that for a .500 starter with a big salary.

Braves acknowledged they were looking for a starter; at least privately they have. But there weren’t any at a reasonable price.

Braves weren’t going to part with prospects they parted with to get Tex, to get a mediocre starter. That’d be stupid. They got a good lefty and a slugger who’s a damn good first baseman (even if he’s made a couple miscues so far, there’s simply no debate he’s a damn good defensive first baseman) who can be their cleanup hitter for at least this year and next, and who they really do they think have at least a chance to re-sign.

By Ron

August 6, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this

N8 Agreed 100% about your 9:18 post!!! And people called US fools!!! If we win the World Series this year or next year OR resign Tex then Great deal for us, I dont care how good the other guys turn out to be!!! BUT if we dont win the World Series or Resign Tex then that is one of JS worst moves EVER!!! Only time will tell!!! I hope we win the World Series AND Resign him!!! And MOST of the same people that said our Starting pitching is GOOD enough are the ONES crying about getting another starte NOW!!! I have Been saying that we need another starter!!!

By chrisklob

August 6, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

I will be SOOOOOOOO glad when Bonds hits this next home run so we can quit hearing/seeing/talking about it. I just want him to go away. Aaron will always be the HR King in my heart and mind.

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

Wolfpack I agree with most of what you state. Good point on waiting to see what you might get for Lillibridge. Also, if you are that confident in him, why not use him as your utility guy. Could he also play third, as Chipper’s insurance?

What I would disagree with is Cameron’s value. I think at the most, he gets 6-7 million per year for 3 years. I think that the Braves might be counting on Jordan Shafer being the centerfielder in 09, so all you would need is a one or maybe a two year fix.

Whaddya think?

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this

DOB and others are dead on. For the same reasons we traded Salty, Elvis and others, we move Edgar for some pitching or CF help. Yunel is TOO good to keep down long. I think he eventually makes us forget about Edgar, except maybe for the power aspect.

Dave: What is your best guess about what the Braves will do for CF next season if AJ is not retained? I know, I know, that’s a long way off. Are the Braves talking much about Jordan Schafer?

By Savannah Guy

August 6, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this

Gil: Thanks for clearing that up for us all. Not a W, but an honor no less.

Wayne in Utah Duck joke was by JJS. Funny stuff.

By Brian the Brain

August 6, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

So are we all crowded around the modern campfire to see if Bonds does it?

By jbutler

August 6, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this

For the record…I lived in New York back in the day, and got to see games at both Shea/Yankees stadium. Shea is a rat hole. So…any bad press that ‘ol place gets is well deserved.

I also think the Braves were nuts not to pursue Glavine in the offseason. However it ended up falling apart- all this talk about needing to make a trade for a pitcher that wasn’t reasonably available, would be moot. There were be a solid 1-4 rotation. Either way- major kudos to getting the big win. Decent guy, hard worker and a solid team player. I love it when someone like him gets attention rather than a Clemens, or a show off like that. I’d hate to be the person getting between him and the camera!!!

By KC

August 6, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this

Flange1: I believe I said the Braves might trade Renteria for another quality pitcher. I didn’t say “starter”.

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

Chriskolb I grew up with Hank Aaron and the Atlanta Braves. I love the guy, but for me, the HR king will aways be “The Babe”. He did it in so few AB’s. Henry was the consumate slugger though. He defers to none.

Barry is/was a great player. Would have been first ballot HOF’er. Wouldn’t it be ironic if he is passed over on the first ballot because of the ‘roids thing when without them he wouldv’e been a first ballot.

By KC

August 6, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

2008 Roster Prediction:

ROTATION: Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, Hampton, James

BULLPEN: Soriano, Moylan, Mahay, Yates, Ring, Paronto, and a closer the Braves will trade Renteria (possibly in a 3-way trade) to get.

1 – Escobar/Harris SS/LF

2- K.Johnson 2B

3 – C.Jones 3B

4 – Tex 1B

5 – McCann C

6 – Francoeur RF

7 – Diaz/Escobar LF/SS

8 – Mike Cameron CF

By Wayne in Utah

August 6, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

Brain the Brian With baited breath!

By The Truth Hurts

August 6, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

Saying that Renteria will likely be traded for a starting pitcher in the offseason is sort of like saying that I think the Sun will rise in the East tomorrow.

Gee, we have a young stud SS waiting to play for the minimum….ya think Renteria might be on the way out? Brilliant. It’s been said long before people on here claimed they were the first to do so…

No…wait…maybe we trade the young stud SS making the minimum to another team and keep Renteria until he’s 48. Then maybe he can be Bobby’s Bench Coach. Thorman needs help on hitting to left field anyway.

Perhaps there should be a Sims: MLB GM game for the blogosphere. Turn off the lights and float away to the parallel universe where Braves fans invent superstudshouldered pitchers to come here for tip money.

Then maybe you could kidnap Dan Haren and Johan Santana and convince them that “below market value” is a concept we here in Atlanta really don’t know anything about….land is cheap, after all…and that $12 million per year for their services is spot on. Don’t return calls from Cashman or Little Theo or a guy named Omar.

And then maybe Johan can tell us how old he really is…like 26 going on El Dookie.

By N8

August 6, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

DOB

Let’s make one thing clear, YOU weren’t the one ripping me the first time I brought it up. It was other bloggers. However you did make a comment that was something to the effect of…(and I’m paraphrasing here)…“Why would they trade the VERY inexpensive, yet VERY productive Renteria to make room for an unknown rookie comodity like Escobar”.

In all fairness to you, you were right at the time. It would’ve been risky to do it without knowing what Escobar was capable of. Like I said it was blowhards like sheeesh that scoffed at the notion and resorted to name calling. Like I said, I wonder if their calling JS the same names now that the cat’s out of the bag that he attempted to trade Renteria. I doubt it.

As far as the comment about the pitching available. I’m aware, and agree with you. In my 9:51 post I made the comment:

“Then again, with the lack of pitching available to be traded for or called up, maybe JS did the next best thing, which is to stack the lineup 8 deep, which he’s done.”

Which pretty much says what you said, about what the Braves gave up for Tex and NOT giving up that same package for a guy like Kyle Loshe.

Totally in agreement with you.

By David O'Brien

August 6, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

BravesFan/MetsLand, I’ve taped the two or three episodes of Damages (and Saving Grace), but haven’t watched them yet. Looking forward to it, but have only had time to keep up with Entourage and Rescue Me, which is my favorite dramatic show when The Shield and The Wire aren’t in season.

Oh, and I’m smoking a fine Padron right now. Can’t go wrong with Padron, Partagas, Arturo Fuente, La Gloria Cabana, CAO Brazilia, Macanudo, or of course Cohiba if you can get real ones or even good Dominican Cohibas.

By Atlanta 66

August 6, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

I’ll be glad to see Bonds to pass Aaron. Bonds is an ašš, and Aaron is an ašš. Same thing, different day.

By N8

August 6, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

The Truth Hurts

“N8, you’re certainly not going to begin to judge the Tex trade based on a 3-2 record, are you? Win that 12-11 game and we’re 4-1 and everybody’s going, “we’re fired up.””

I see your point. You’re ABSOLUTELY correct. Without Tex, we lose that game 11-4. :-)

You’re missing the point (my point anyhow - no matter how misguided). I’m not sure adding Tex is enough to get us “there”. So if we don’t it will have been all for naught.

Having said that, I am encouraged by JS willing to gamble and LM allowing him to make a big move like that. Win or lose, that’s a good sign from the new ownership.

By brian

August 6, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

Lillebridge is not expendable. With Elvis gone, he will be very important for the braves future. Whenever Chipper retires, Yunel may move to 3B and Lillebridge takes over at SS. Lillebridge could also play 2B allowing KJ to move to the OF. JS really wanted Lillebridge and saw him as part of the future of the Braves. In fact, Lillebridge, along with Yunel’s performance this year, is why JS was willing to move Elvis to get Tex.

The Braves really need to sign Tex to a 4-5 year extension, though it will be interesting to see if Boras lets the Braves even try. He refused the 8 year, $140 million from the Rangers basically to force them to trade him (to someone like the Braves). Would you all sign him for what we were talking about with Andruw? 5-6 year $75-110 million?

I would lock him up. If we get McCann, Francoeur, and Tex locked up long term that will be a very formidible 3 in the lineup.

By gotigers72

August 6, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

DOB or anyone else that knows Any word on whether the Braves have signed or are close to signing first round draft pick Heyward? If they haven’t signed him, I believe they have only until August 15th or he goes back in for next year’s draft. If he goes to college, I think it’s 3 years before he’s available to be drafted again.

Those high draft picks have some serious leverage if they have the grades and SAT score to get in college. Francoeur had a full ride to play football for my Clemson Tigers before the Braves drafted and signed him. That may have helped the Braves though, because other teams may have skipped him because they had strong feelings that he was going to Clemson rather than play pro baseball. Either way I came out a winner!

By brian

August 6, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

N8 - right with you on Edgar and have been this year. Also suffered some of the same snide comments simply by agreeing with you.

I don’t know if I would have traded Edgar for Garland, but he should bring us more pitching.

I also would love to see Glavine pitch one more year with the Braves then retire a Brave. If we had signed him this year…..

By chrisklob

August 6, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

KCdo you really think that Hampton can come back and be effective?

Wayne, learning that Aaron had broken Ruth’s record is one of the moments of my childhood (I was 10)that I will never forget. Just one of those things that has always stuck with me. I was a baseball fan then, although not a Braves fan. Of course, while most kids have a basic understanding of the game, they don’t learn to truly appreciate it until much later. But, for whatever reason I remember that moment vividly.

By chrisklob

August 6, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy, hey buddy. Meant to ask you last night, how many languages do you speak?

By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist

August 6, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

dob enjoys will and grace? should get along better with ron roberts then. and tatiana honey, also tatiana honey. now, baseball … salty’s gone, one more round, salty’s gone. prado and orr play the most positions. only one will come up but woodward is here already. always go with the canadian in such cases.

By Fred Secunda

August 6, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

Did Julio clear waivers? And who is the infielder that’s expected to be called up?

By chrisklob

August 6, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

gotigers, I haven’t heard how negotiations are going with Heyward but you are correct about Aug 15 being the drop dead date.

By KC

August 6, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

chrisklob:

Yes, I really do. The problem he had with his elbow over the spring did not involve the ligament that was repaired in the TJ surgery, and was in no way related to that surgery.

The surgery he had in April was nowhere near as major as the Tommy John surgery he had 18 months earlier. And the good news is that the ligament that was repaired in the TJ surgery should absolutely be 100%, as it will have been 2-1/2 years since the Tommy John surgery.

If he’s healthy next spring, he should get better as the season goes along. I really do think he can be an asset.

Having said all of that… there’s no way you can bank on him to be your #3 guy heading into the season, and if the Braves can help it… I don’t think they will bank on him.

That’s why I think Glavine’s coming back. The Braves would love to head into the season with a rotation of Smoltz/Hudson/Glavine/Hampton/James… with Buddy Carlyle serving as an insurance policy in case anyone goes down.

By JS

August 6, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

Now, up to now my plan went all right, Til we tried to put it all together one night. And that’s when we noticed that something was definitely wrong. We gave up half the farm for that guy at first,
And then a ‘closer’ and our bubble burst.

And I knew right then my Dependz was about to go…

By StingerSplash

August 6, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

Why does that scene from the movie “The Late Shift” come to mind when thinking about Renteria and Escobar, the one where Carson is first thought to be hanging up and the NBC PR flack says, “Maybe we should put out something that says we hope the king reigns forever,” and the two execs say no, recognizing the ascendancy of either Leno or Letterman to the throne. In other words, maybe the Braves won’t be disappointed if Renteria doesn’t come back in a couple of weeks, given the way Escobar is playing. That being said, having Renteria and Escobar both playing well gives the Braves a whole of firepower and flexibility.

By KC

August 6, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Wolfpack Man: Cameron may not be all that expensive. We’ll see. As you mentioned, he’s no offensive juggernaut. But outside of Andruw Jones and Tori Hunter, Cameron is the only gold-glove caliber center-fielder available this winter… and the Braves value defense. Always have.

By chrisklob

August 6, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

KC, I honestly hope you’re right and the old version of Hampton comes back. He had a couple of really fine years but that was a looong time ago.

I also hope that Homeboy Upstairs isn’t counting on anything the way that the Cubs used to count on Wood and Prior to contribute. That could be catastrophic. Hopefully, they look at any contribution he can make as gravy.

By KC

August 6, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

chrisklob:

To be clear… I think Hampton could come back and contribute. I’m not pronouncing that he will. But Many people have written him off, and I don’t think there’s any reason to do that.

I just think it’s important for the Braves to not bank on him to be the 3rd stater. I don’t think the Braves want to bank on him either, so it seems like Glavine is a likely fit.

It’d be nice to have 5 quality starters and Buddy Carlyle waiting in the wings if Hampton or anyone else went down.

By bravesfan

August 6, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

Updated wildcard standings. I am not saying we are going to get swept but even if we did they most we could be back in the wildcard is 4.5 and in the division 7.5 so it still wouldn’t be out of reach but we need to win atleast 1 game in the Mets series. But I would must rather win 2. San Diego 60 51
Atlanta 59 53 1.5 Chi Cubs 58 53 2.0 LA Dodgers 58 53 2.0 Philadelphia 58 53 2.0 Colorado 56 54 3.5

By Ron

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

gotigers He is signed just not announced!!! Bud Selig wants the GM’s to not announce any signings of First Rounders until the last few days, so that the agents cant try to get MORE money for players on the downright awful teams that dont have much money!!! The Braves are trying to appease the Commissioner!!! An Example he dont won’t the Yankees going crazy and signing a Late pick for ridiculous amount and then there would be NO way the smaller market can sign the player!!!

By Wes

August 6, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

you speak of the Braves additions at the trading deadline but overlook a very key addition by the Metropolitans…Luis Castillo solidifies the Mets D and adds speed and Reyes-protection at the top of the order.

By chrisklob

August 6, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

Ron (Conspiracy Theorist). So far, seventeen of the first round picks have signed with their teams and 30 or the 34 first round/supplemental picks have signed. I guess those teams have been “naughty” and defied the commissioner.

Don’t you think that if Heyward were signed that JS would have him playing somewhere, probably in Orlando? If he’s not playing, he’s not learning anything. If he’s not learning then he’s not helping the organization.

Dude, go back and read your post and really think about what you just said.

By StingerSplash

August 6, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I hope your smokes don’t have any trans fat in them, or you’ll be in big, big trouble in NYC.

By Ron

August 6, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

chrisklob Ok dude I got this somewhere: Baseball America had reported that Heyward and the Braves had reached an agreement on a $1.7 million bonus a while ago but haven’t announced it. The reason for this is that the commissioner’s office is trying to make the draft more fair for low-market teams by putting a slot value system in for the first round of the draft. Technically teams are not required to abide by it but the way it has been explained to me is that all the signings over slot value will be announced very close to the August 15th deadline so agents cannot use the above-value signings as leverage for their player. So the Braves aren’t really in danger of not signing the Georgia native but to please the commissioner, which is a very good idea with Bud.

Chrisklob, just what I got from another site dude!!! You can believe it or not!!!

By doc

August 6, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

dob, hope you know about jr cigars. great brands and prices and a funny as all get out brouchure.

By Steve from OH

August 6, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this

This Ohioan would like to comment upon Tom Glavine:

I personally have the highest respect for Tom Glavine. Did he leave the Braves for only slightly more money? Probably. Was it disappointing,if not heartbreaking to me? Of course it was. However, if you ask me, I will tell you every single time that Tom Glavine is the consummate professional, a class act that I am proud to have a called a “Brave,” and to have included in such company as Maddux, Smoltz, Neikro, Spahn, etc. Barry Bonds’ 756th home run will be forever tainted, but Glavine’s 300th will always be revered in baseball as the last 300th win for quite a long time (not to mention that he’s clean). Denizens, always remember that in the end it will always be Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz and Avery with the BRAVES- not Glavine,Martinez and Sosa with the Mets.

Good Night, everybody. Now lets kick some Muts @ss tomorrow!

By Train Wreck Bystander

August 6, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this

To address the title of the blog:

I am hoping we sweep the Mets.

If we win 2 of 3, I’ll have a spring in my step.

If we lose the Mets series and beat the Phils, I think we’ll be OK.

If we lose both series, I predict the blog will be in flames.

I’m predicting we will win 4 of the 6 games. I’m hoping for 6 of 6.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 7, 2007 12:03 AM | Link to this

Savannah Guy My Wurlitzer was an illustration of the bearded icon John Smoltz. Lew has a web site on which you can view samples of his work.

Also 10-4 on the politics.

Again for those who did not catch my earlier post on Lillibridge, he is not Escobar. He is a very good player but he has his own style. He is not going to bump Yuni. Don’t forget these kids have not yet reached their full potential. Going to be fun to watch them grow though.

By chrisklob

August 7, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this

Ron, would you care to post the link to your source? I’m not being difficult but I’ve not seen anything about his signing. As of the time of my post, BA is NOT reporting his signing as being official.

I understand why Selig thinks slot signings are important but I think that the urge to get Heyward playing ball would outweigh the desire to suck up to the commissioner. It’s not like he’s a college pitcher who’s already got 100 innings under his belt this year. The kid probably hasn’t seen live pitching since end of May/first of June and JS has got to be anxious to get him some AB’s.

By chrisklob

August 7, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

Gil, as always it’s nice to read your scouting reports from Richmond! Anyone else down there making any good impressions?

By Will

August 7, 2007 12:18 AM | Link to this

Ron has got it right here Chris. Every pick who has signed so far has signed for at or below slot value. That and between 28 and all 30 of the first round picks are expected to sign. The commissioners office is taking a much harsher stand on the draft slot values in his attempt to “reform” the draft process. Heyward is getting at bats, just not in the pros.

http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/draft/?p=177

By gotigers72

August 7, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

Thanks for the comments on Heyward. I don’t understand why Bud “Jelly Spine” Selig would want teams to wait, but if that’s the way it is, then that’s the way it is.

I would prefer he be at Danville getting in some swings. Maybe he’ll be announced early enough to play 10-15 games at Danville, and then Winter League or Arizona Fall League somewhere.

Didn’t I read somewhere that Yunel led the Arizona Fall League with an average over .400 this past fall? That should have been an early sign that the boy could play, and he has shown that he can!

By Ron

August 7, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

I got it from www.mvnbraves.com!!! Go to that site, go to the bottom of the site, where it says previous entries click it, and a fan asked the question to somebody and the dude answered the question!!!

By uga-brave

August 7, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

GAME one sets the tone for the whole six game trip. win game one and there’s not immense pressure on smoltz in game two. in order to win game one the braves need to exercise some patience against O. PEREZ. hitters must get ahead of him to neutralize that cutter in the dirt. perez has a propensity to walk people if you let him. perez also can get rattled early in games.

so the formula is to take some pitches early and make him pitch from the stretch where he is not a effective. the key is not swinging at that cutter in the dirt, easier said than done but we will see.

with all this being said, if CARLYLE goes out there and lets the big stage bother him, all bets are off.

By JB

August 7, 2007 12:28 AM | Link to this

All of you can stop with your hot air. Blah. Blah. And blah. I’ll tell you who could beat the Mets, Braves, AND Phillies:

Joe Morgan. Just ask him.

P- Joe Morgan 1B- Joe Morgan 2B- Joe Morgan SS- Joe Morgan 3B- Joe Morgan OF- Joe Morgan OF- Joe Morgan OF- Joe Morgan C- Johnny Bench (they’re friends)

By uga-brave

August 7, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

DOB, i know this is a long shot but MANNY ACTA should get some serious thoughts for manager of the year. more so than any team in the N.L. the nationals have probably overachieved the most. i think every person in baseball thought this team would lose 110 games when the season started. great job keeping a team focused that knew they were fighting a losing battle before the season started.

By Will

August 7, 2007 12:34 AM | Link to this

nah, you got to add Bonds in there. Bonds can play all three outfield spots, hit a homer every time up, and do all of it while being held down by the White man. Lol, Joe Morgan, what a joke.

By uga-brave

August 7, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

JB agree with you on joe morgan, and to think 10 yrs ago he was worse.

the guy always hated the comparisons of 90’s braves and the big red machine. it always me me me and the big red machine.

By Josh

August 7, 2007 12:37 AM | Link to this

I honestly can’t remember the last time I was this jacked up about a series in August……but folks, both of these are huge. I have a feeling someone is going to step up huge and have a 1999 Chipper-like series in New York and it may indeed be Mr. Escobar. And by the way…..IT’S TIME WE FINALLY ROCK OLIVER PEREZ!!!! CHOP CHOP CHOP

By chrisklob

August 7, 2007 12:39 AM | Link to this

Will, I sincerely hope that Ron does have it right. But why would a kid who’s signed (or at least come to an agreement) with a mlb organization still be wearing UCLA gear and saying that “he’s just waiting on the Braves”?

Ron, I couldn’t get mvnbraves.com to come up. Are you sure that’s the link?

Seriously, I’m not trying to be a jerk but I’ve not seen anything credible that shows that he’s signed. If they drafted him in the first round they must like him. I’ve gotta like him too based on that fact and I want him in a Braves uni taking swings but not against 17 and unders. I’d rather him take his cuts against other new pro players.

By N8

August 7, 2007 12:40 AM | Link to this

JB

As sarcastic (and funny) as your post about Joe Morgan is/was.

I’d take that team ANY day of the week.

Not sure how his defense would be, but I’m guessing Joe would score some runs. :-)

My guess is he’d wear a “Garth Brooks” style wireless headset mic, so he could still do comentary with John Miller. I can hear it now:

“Wow. I hit that ball HARD. If you noticed the way I slid into 2nd base to avoid the tag, you could clearly see that I was out….er….safe on that play.”

You get the picture.

Sorry, even though I like Joe Morgan, I couldn’t resist piling on. He is a little overbearing at times, but I respect him.

If we can all put up with Joe Simpson, why can’t so many deal with a HOF’r?

They’re BOTH better than Rick “I - like - to - put an - awkward - pause - i-n-b-e-t-w-e-e-n - every word I say!” Sutcliffe.

Now THAT GUY is tough to listen to. Though of all the ESPN guys, he probably gives the most props to the Braves, so I shouldn’t complain too much.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 7, 2007 12:48 AM | Link to this

This blog gets dumber by the day…

By Chop Chop

August 7, 2007 12:50 AM | Link to this

Fire Joe Morgan, dammit

That is all.

By uga-brave

August 7, 2007 12:52 AM | Link to this

anyone else on this blog kinda suprised we have not heard more from roger mcdowell. kinda thought he would be a tad bit more vocal. MCDOWELL always had the reputation as a free spirit. now i know this is not the job of a pitching coach, but you barely here a peep out of him or for that matter not even a critique of one of his pitchers the next day. gotta wonder how happy he is here, just a thought.

By DG

August 7, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this

Forget Johnny Bench catching…put in Tim McCarver!! He says he was really good, although no one really saw him play any.

Didn’t Morgan say he hit a home run off of God back in 1965?

Morgan/McCarver vs. Braves/Mets/Phillies/God

Winner: Morgan/McCarver by mercy rule in the 7th.

By Will

August 7, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

He has committed to UCLA but is expected to sign with the Braves and reportedly had reached an agreement. He may well be at a Braves facility working with coaches but I’m not sure. All the guys who are going to sign for above slot bonuses will be announced the last day or two.

And the link is either mvn.com/mlb-braves or chop-n-change.com

By Serbok

August 7, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

google~ Matt kilroy? Hmmmmmmmmmmmm

By uga-brave

August 7, 2007 12:57 AM | Link to this

best of all espn color guys, even though you dont here him much is tony gwyn.

By Savannah Guy

August 7, 2007 12:59 AM | Link to this

Paladin Personal post to you on the recent 8/3 “Title Teams…” blog (the last one there). Just let me know if you got it.

By Savannah Guy

August 7, 2007 1:33 AM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah: Good post and dittos all. Babe was the incredible one. His ‘roids were hot dogs and beer…and lots of both. And, uh…women. He dominated when the next biggest slugger had 20 or 30 HR’s. He was hitting…crushing…knocking the covers off of balls and getting 50 and 60 home runs. He did that in an era of much softer baseballs, no physical trainers, no unions and no modern therapy or medicine like modern times. Oh…also no performance enhancing, strengthening, injury shortening, career lengthening steroids either. Just good old-fashioned hand/eye coordination and brute power. He was amazing. The Babe.

Of course I love Hank too. I just happen to have an autographed HR ball from him. He gave it to my dad after a game in the late 60’s. I’m not an autograph collector or seeker but I treasure this one for many reasons.

chrisklob: Hello friend. Was just about to sign off and saw your name. How many languages? Well, seems the last few days…none very well. Still trying to master English.

Gil in Mechanicsville: John Smoltz would also be my choice of a portrait, although Dale Murphy and Hank Aaron would be very close runners up. Now that I think about it…Hank might be…or Dale…hell I can’t decide. Smoltzie would great…he’s a down to earth great guy and just a regular, nice gentleman to talk to. Met him years ago in West Palm back in the early 90’s Grapefruit days. Great guy. Great warrior and the heart of the Braves. I have seen Lew’s web site…good stuff there.

By David O'Brien

August 7, 2007 3:13 AM | Link to this

No, Jimmy, can honestly say I’ve never seen one minute of “Will and Grace,” so if it’s good or bad, I can’t really claim to know.

It’s “Saving Grace” that I have DVR’d. The new series with Holly Hunder. And the other one is “Damages” with Glenn Glose. I’ll leave Will and Grace to you and Ron or whomever else digs laugh-track sitcoms (I’m assuming it has one, right?)…

On the other hand, there’s Van Morrison. Man, just played “Poetic Champions Compose” for the first time in a long time tonight. Definitely one of my top five Van the Man records of all time. Totally underrated….

Oh, and just in c ase anyone forgot, here’s what Braves are up against tomorrow night in Oliver Perez. He’s 3-1 with a 2.56 ERA in his past five starts, with 40 strikeouts in 31-2/3 innings.

He’s 1-3 despite a 3.35 ERA in his past six home starts, with the Mets scoring two runs or fewer while he was in four of those six.

He’s usually at his best against the Braves, of course, with a 5-2 record and 2.04 ERA in his past eight starts, including 3-0 with a 1.31 ERA in three this season. He has 20 strikeouts and two walks with only one home run allowed in 20-2/3 innings of those three games. …

OK, gotta get a couple hours sleep before heading for the airport.

By Double Deuce

August 7, 2007 4:02 AM | Link to this

**DOB++

3:13 AM post. You really are dedicated to this blog man. I was thinking I’d be the last ‘cause of the West Coast thing…I’m impressed. Just for the record, when I golf I smoke Arturo Fuente Curly Head Deluxe because I can go thru two or three in a round. When I’m just kicking back, it’s the Fuente Hemingway. Nothing like a good cigar.

I was just going to close for the night with the usual what a great time of the year it is. I like football, but not until about 10 or 11 games have been played and it sorts itself out. On the other hand, the last two months of the baseball season are the best. Who knows how the Braves will turn out, but I can tell you this. We are a far cry from last years team, this team can hit, play defense, and if we get any kind of consistent starting pitching down the stretch we are the team to beat. But no matter how this week plays out, there’s a lot of baseball left and in the end it will be the Braves, Mets, and Phillies, just the way 90% of us called it at the beginning of the year. Baseball is the best.

By barry bonds

August 7, 2007 5:35 AM | Link to this

The only reason the Marlins beat the Braves in ‘97 was because of umpire Eric Gregg’s strike zone that was bigger than he was. Head-to-head is overrated over the course of the year, but playoffs are not. For the Bravos, it has always been hard to swing the bat when they have their hands around their throats. Should they make it to the playoffs and meet the Mets, it will be another lost October…..Mets in five. This week, Mets take 2 of 3.

By CW

August 7, 2007 7:36 AM | Link to this

Don’t know how the season is going to end, but feel like having a great big group hug here on the DOB blog. Braves are right in the middle of a playoff chase with not one, but two, worthy rivals in their division and the NL wildcard race could be a dog fight with teams from all three divisions.

50 games left and every damn one of them means something. Like everyone else, I’d love to see this be the year for Los Bravos. But right now, I’m savoring the most interesting regular season since ‘91.

BamaBrave, I think Tex will be Hot Blooded during this series and may turn out to be more than just a Juke Box Hero. He knows it is Urgent to win 2 out of 3 this series.

By Greg

August 7, 2007 7:47 AM | Link to this

Perez is going to run into a buzz saw tonight. If he’s expecting our previously awful lineup that we fielded against lefties, featuring Chris Woodward and Craig Wilson, he’s going to be really surprised. Texeira and Chipper are going to ruin his night. One possible danger here. Bobby may get moronic and start Woodward at second because of his irrational belief that awful right-handed hitters are better than great left-handed hitters against lefty pitchers. We’re screwed if he does that.

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 8:18 AM | Link to this

*Paladin Personal post to you on the recent 8/3 “Title Teams…” blog (the last one there). Just let me know if you got it.

By Savannah Guy*

No, I hadn’t seen that. It was, as are most of your posts, very well-written. The words were, for the most part, kind and, by me, appreciated.

I plead guilty to once again interjecting my prior service into the mix. I have tried, of late, to avoid that and did so in that instance only to “defend” the fact that I didn’t know all of the sports jargon, and why. I’ll try to get back to being just Paladin, an old man with some memories.

I take your remarks as being an “olive branch” and I offer mine in return. I enjoy funnin’ with you; I don’t enjoy fightin’ with anyone—except trolls and jackals.

Let’s do our part in stopping the “dumbing” of the blog and make jjs proud of us.

Your friend, Paladin

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 7, 2007 8:21 AM | Link to this

Morning all, One thing the injury to Renteria cased was the discontinuation of the platoon at second. I doubt seriously we will see Woodward except as the last man off the bench. Well, maybe ahead of Corky.

I’ll try to put up a list of possible September callups sometime this week. One must remeber that sometimes a deserving player will not get the call because the Big club does not want to start the options clock ticking.

I think it often depends on what the immediate needs are. We already know Julio is coming back, I just am not sure which outfielders and pitchers are going to get the call.

You can count on Prado and Lillibridge to come up. Also I would expect Pena. I am not sure how many players they are allowed and who knows if JS won’t make another trade.

By Will

August 7, 2007 8:33 AM | Link to this

I am definitely hoping to see alot different results against Oliver Perez tonight. Although i do have no doubt Chris Woodward will be in the lineup. I could care less if Kelly Johnson has never got a hit off Perez he should still be out there because Woodward is a guaranteed 0-4. Hope Buddy Carlisle can step up tonight cause this is not the Pirates at home here. He has pitched real well against alot of teams, although the best team he has faced (Red Sox) made it look like he was throwing batting practice. I like the Braves to win Wed and Thu, tonight is dicey with the combo of Perez’s domination of the Braves and the fact its probably Buddy’s biggest game of his career in a very hostile road environment.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 7, 2007 8:34 AM | Link to this

DOB I agree with the assessment of the new Holly Hunter drama on TNT. Very edgy and adult. Now sure if the wife likes it all that much but we have more than one TV. I am so sick of the phoney reality shows and bad sitcoms that I dread when baseball season is over.

Had to laugh at the comment Joe Simpson made Sunday when describing the heat in Atlanta, said it was 93 degrees and the humidity around 40%. Man, wait until he gets a load of the 60% to 80% he is going to face this week. You just wring your shirt out from standing still.

As our buddy the Grinch would advise, hydrate, hydrate, hydrate…. You might want to drink some water in too.

By Lew

August 7, 2007 8:48 AM | Link to this

I’ve never been much of a HollyHunter fan, but I caought Saving Grace last night and was pleasantly surprised. Like Gil says, it’s better than rewality shows. Grace Potter is on Good Morning America right now.

By Richmond Braves- Stringer

August 7, 2007 8:51 AM | Link to this

DOB-tip of the cap on the pleasures of the Cohiba.

On your DVR stored series-Damages is absolutely brilliant.

Saving Grace is dreadful. Love Holly Hunter but the show is awful. Lem from the Shield is also in Saving Grace, but even Miss Hunter’s prowess along with his fine acting can’t save a dreadful show.

By Lee in South GA

August 7, 2007 8:51 AM | Link to this

Will

I agree tonight game scares me more than the other two. Carlisle will be tested to see if he can handle big game situations against a good team and he is more than likely going to have to pitch a gem in order for the Braves to beat Perez. I have no doubt Woodward will be out there either. Bobby can explain all the reasoning behind this also and it still will not make one bit of sense.

By Shaun

August 7, 2007 8:51 AM | Link to this

Gil in Mechanicsville,

Rosters expand to 40 in September. Any player on the 40-man roster can play in the majors. Of course, that many players usually don’t get called up because of arbitration rules and such, I believe.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 7, 2007 8:55 AM | Link to this

Double Deuce I suspect Dave’s body clock is still on Pacific Coast Time. Hard to get readjusted to the east coast.

Good thing about New York is it’s open 24 hours just like a good truck stop. No disrepect intended towards the truck stop.

By ncscoots

August 7, 2007 8:59 AM | Link to this

Don’t know how the Budster (sorry, too cool not to reuse, DOB) will fare tonight, but the Mets ain’t no Red Sox, if that’s what has you worried. What the hey, he’s been pitching in a coma since he was inserted, anyway, so the storyline would be almost complete if he has a good outing on a big stage and tops the early-season Braves-beater in the process.

Now THAT would be one of those magical signs that portend happy endings.

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 9:04 AM | Link to this

Forgive me one more non-baseball comment:

I see where one of our Federal Judges in the-land-of-fruits-and-nuts has limited the use of Navy sonar because of possible damage to wildlife. I wonder how long that will take to get on the underworld Internet to “suggest” a device, such as the one that was recently seized in New York harbor, would be an excellent way to get a “dirty” bomb in, and detonate it in, one of our major city harbors?

I’m off my soapbox and please don’t tell me this is a baseball blog. It’s “slow” time.

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this

BaseballAmerica:

The Atlanta Braves promoted lefthander Cole Rohrbough from Rookie-level Danville to low Class A Rome last night.

Rohrbough has been one of the best pitchers in the minor leagues this season, striking out a gaudy 15.66 batters per nine innings with a 2.16 walks per innings rate and a 1.08 ERA in 33.1 innings. The 20-year-old has overmatched Appalachian League hitters with a 90-94 mph fastball, a hard spike curveball and a good changeup. While his move to low Class A puts him in a league with slightly more experienced hitters who are more appropriate for Rohrbough’s age, his utter dominance in Danville should translate into success at the next level.

The Braves drafted Rohrbough in the 22nd round in 2006, and Rohrbough ended up being one of the highest-profile draft-and-follows this year. Playing for Western Nevada Community College this spring, Rohrbough struck out 92 batters and walked 16 in 66 innings, posting a 1.63 ERA.

Should he finish the year healthy, Rohrbough will likely challenge Brandon Jones and 2007 first rounder Jason Heyward for top prospect status in a Braves’ farm system depleted by the acquisition of first baseman Mark Teixeira.

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

I live in “enemy” territory—in football, anyway. So, I have learned to keep my bold predictions to myself less they be shoved where biddie stuck the onion if my Dawgs, or Falcons, are not successful. It makes losses less-painful-than-otherwise, somewhat.

And it is SO much easier to be a good winner than it is to be a good loser.

By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist

August 7, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

dob, forgive this journalist for confusing the graces. jimmy smith only knows that ron roberts really likes will and grace. the grace dob likes … is this the gracie that journalist bob is always saying goodnight to? and “to” at the end of a sentence … where is the scribe? journalist jimmy smith normally only does this with “toes are not to be trifled with”.

and speaking of toes, do the bloggers realize a toe injury cost the braves a young prospect? yes, that’s right. a toe injury to matt harrison caused matt harrison to alter matt harrison’s delivery and resulted in shoulder soreness. that shoulder soreness caused the rangers to hesitate on the tushy trade. so, the braves threw in another young pitcher to complete the trade. that is reported in texas. also from texas:

“Texas manager Ron Washington was impressed with Saltalamaccia’s debut behind the plate, the Dallas Morning News reports.”

“He made every pitch that was thrown look like a strike,” Washington said. “He was quiet back there and blocked balls well. He definitely looked like a catcher.” Obviously, the more impressive Salty is behind the plate the better the chances are that he’ll start next year as Texas’ full-time catcher. So far, so good.”

By KC

August 7, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this

Eric from MO:

Last night you said you believed the Mets have an option on Tom Glavine for next season. They don’t. The option for 2008 is a player option.

Unless the Braves can pull off some kind of a deal for a young, proven quality starter (unlikely, because teams don’t trade such pitchers)… Tom Glavine will likely be a Brave again next year.

By AthensBrave

August 7, 2007 9:48 AM | Link to this

Ohohooooooohhhh!!!!

Gosh, I was nervously excited right when I woke up today. What a big series!!!

What a huge week!!!

We need to bring our A game and at the very least take 2 out of 3 from those biatches this week.

Lets go, start it off right Buddy!!!

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

The key to Buddy’s success is to stay away from Carlos Delgado. I don’t know if you guys haven’t noticed, but Buddy throws a lot of fastballs up in the zone. Works against the right handers, not sure if he can get away with those fastballs against a lefty like Delgado.

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 9:57 AM | Link to this

KC

You understand that if we sign Glavine that would give us another 5+ inning pitcher. He has really stuggled to get to the 7th inning this year. We already have Chuck James and Mike Hampton next year. As well as a 41 year old John Smoltz with a aching shoulder. Who’s to say that shoulder won’t be hurting again next year? I’m all for Tom Glavine, love the guy, but just know that the bullpen’s recent struggles can be directly linked to our #3, #4 and #5 starters not getting us deep into games. I’d rather not go through this again.

By BamaBrave

August 7, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

“He definitely looked like a catcher”

Riveting words from Mr. Washington. RIVETING.

Please no Glavine next year…I’m almost as tired of this idea as I am of the current Bonds-O-Mania. Let’s move forward.

By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist

August 7, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

journalist was reading another ajc blog this morning and found this interesting wrinkle on a subject dear to the dob/braves/man.in.black/pie/ toes/music/barbecue blog:

“you’re and idiot”.

this is an interesting new way of expressing the sentiment. haven’t seen this one yet on this blog.

and now, baseball … bobby is indeed calling tushy “kid” for now. it was picked up on the dugout microphone. how long will the team’s new star allow himself to be called, kid? this journalist predicts bobby will have to come up with another nickname for teixeira and that nickname is going to be tushy. give it time.

and more nicknames: according to a respected baseball site ron mahay’s nickname is “none”.

“c’mon none, c’mon son.”

By AthensBrave

August 7, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this

I’ll have to admit that the Mets have the advantage tonight….the only game in the series they do

Liver Pez does very well against us. Lefties in general do well against us. Buddy is the wild card, I can see him fairing either way tonight

But you never know what will happen.

By Lew

August 7, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this

Esteemed Journalist-Yes, Salty looked like a catcher. Must have something to do with wearing a mask, shin guards and a chest protector and waggling fingers at crotch level. It reminds me of an old Smothers Brothers routine. They did the song The Streets of Laredo “I see by your outfit that you are a cowboy-if you get an outfit you can be a cowboy too.” Ron Washington is a typical manager-they all make similar comments, post game. “Reitsma only made ONE bad pitch tonight-the one they hit the six run HR off of.” Oh the Humanity!!!! Salty looks like a catcher.

By ncscoots

August 7, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

jjs, should not bloggers just go ahead and shorten the various versions of “you’re an idiot” to YAI, or YAAI, or some other acceptable set of initials? Then bloggers could use the phrase with impunity and without fear of atrocious grammar.

“Hey, ncscoots, YAAI! Whaddya think about that?!?”

See? Much better than the alternative, and the meaning would still be clear.

By Bob, Journalist

August 7, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this

Be kind! “you’re and idiot” is just someone who usually says “your and idiot” … I applaud they’re effort to improve.

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

And what would the esteemed Mr. Washington say that “Wicky” looked like? Oh, that’s right. We have been there. :-)

By KC

August 7, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this

Efrim: Glavine is averaging 6 innings a start this year (his career average is 6.5 innings per start). Yes, you’re correct… he’s not giving the kind of innings you’d like to see.

However, Chuck James really isn’t our problem. James has average 6 innings per start as well, believe it or not (I know it seems like he averages 4 innings - LOL). Chuck James has not been our problem.

If a pitcher gives you 7 innings per start… you’ve got to be happy with that. But James (or Glavine) making the bullpen throw one extra inning every 5 days isn’t going to wear out the bullpen.

The Braves problem has been the bottom of the rotation. Davies, and everyone they’ve brought in to replace Hampton so far (Redman, Lerew, Reyes… and I think I’m leaving one out) have been a disaster. THAT has been the problem, and the reason why the bullpen has been worn out.

Keep in mind, I’m not necessarily advocating a Tom Glavine return next year… I’m just saying I think there’s a very good chance it’ll happen.

If Glavine can help this team… GREAT! I’m all for it. But if it doesn’t look like it would be prudent to bring him back, then I don’t want him here.

I’ll be looking to see how Glavine finishes the season, and how he pitches in October (assuming they make the post-season). If he looks good the rest of the way… I’ll feel like there’s probably enough left in the tank for one more season.

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

Hey ncscoots, don’t make it easy for them. They will think you are serious. :-)

By Lew

August 7, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this

I agree with KC-James has gone 6IP per start ever since he arrived as a starter in Atlanta. The problem is the fifth starter slot. The relievers having to pitch 10 innings of a 13 inning game is the problem. Having to do this several times in a two week period is not Chuckie’s fault. We need a semi reliable fifth starter. We have not had a semi reliable fifth starter yet this year. Give us another pitcher like Chuck and we win walking away.

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this

Lew One of today’s Top Jobs is in turf sales. We have all heard the expression that so and so could sell space-heaters to eskimos. Would a similar accolade be “he could sell turf to a Bedouin?” Just wondered.

By jimmy smith, ugandan journalist

August 7, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

apparently, washington’s comment that salty “looks like a catcher” came after washington detremined that salty is not a first baseman. still, switch-hitting catcher was supposed to be the hottest thing going until the braves traded salty for a switch-hitting first baseman.

all this talk of glavine, hampton, and smoltz next year troubles this journalist. smoltz will be 41. glavine and hampton surely cannot be the future.

By Weather man

August 7, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

DOB You better bring your Speedo, to jump in to the Love park Fountain…it will be HOT…HOT…HOT in Philadelphia…Today at 7:30AM…82 degree 79% humidity….dupoint 72%…the next few day will be very humid and Hot…You can make a Philly cheesesteak on the street. GO BRAVES

By Will

August 7, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

I have to agree that the 5th starter and relentless extra inning games are the main factors dragging down the bullpen. Not to mention Bobby rode Yates and Soriano into the ground, along with Wickman, the first few months of the season. If the Braves have a 1 run 9th inning lead in this series i truly have no idea who i want in there pitching.

By iwalterp

August 7, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

JS has tried to catch lightning in a bottle the whole season with Redman,Cormier,Reyes and Carlisle. Carlisle is the only one who has decent results. If Buddy can whole the Mets to just 2 runs for 7 innings, this new Brave lineup will give the bullpen enough runs to win. If Buddy and Chucky can average 2-3 runs per 7 inning the rest of the way the Braves have a chance. Cormier as the 5th starter is still a question mark but JS is out of options.

By Steve from OH

August 7, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

JJS:

Troubling, indeed. However, we’ve still got Chuck and Huddy, and can probably make a nice FA signining after 08. Doesn’t look like we’ve got anyone in the system other than JoJo that’s close, though.

By Thesaurus.com

August 7, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

Let’s broaden the vocab denizens. You’re an idiot, and idiot really is so uncivil. Why not moron, imbecile, neanderthal, retard, nincompoop, blockhead, boob, dimwit, dork, dumb ox, dumbbell, dunce, dunderhead, fool, halfwit, ignoramus, meathead, mental defective, nitty, nitwit, simpleton, stupid, tomfool, twit, yo-yo, addle-brain, addle-head, blockhead, blunderbuss, blunderer, blunderhead, bonehead, botcher, clod, clumsy oaf, dolt, dub, duffer, dunce, featherbrain, flounderer, goof, goof off, jerk off, jerk, goofball, harebrain, ignoramus, incompetent, klutz, lubber, muddler, numskull, schlemiel, screw-up, stumblebum, nimrod, schnook, dodo, dullard, dumb bunny, dumb cluck, dumbo, dumdum, dummy, numbskull, oaf, simpleton, birdbrain, buffoon, dodo, drip, half-baked, knucklehead, lame-brain, lightweight, loon, lout, lunkhead, schmuck, schnook, spaz, butt, chump, clod, clown, cretin, born fool, born loser, pea brain, dope, dope head, pinhead, ape, stupid, autistic statistic? Maybe instead of calling people idiots, we should just call them idiot savants, so they are not so insulted. Throw them under the bus while patting them on the back.

By Lee in South GA

August 7, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this

The 5th starter position in this new era of baseball has just about become as valuable as the 4th starter. Many teams (Braves definitely) do not have starters pitching complete games any longer; therefore, the bullpen never gets a night off to rest occasionally. Davies also was not effective as a 4th starter during his time there which even added more fuel to the fire. No wonder this bullpen was / is overworked.

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 10:45 AM | 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 David-ATL14

August 7, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

Have to wholeheartedly agree with the Richmond stringer- Thumbs up on the Cohiba,and Damages.

A definite thumbs down on Saving Grace, though Holly Hunter is a first rate actress.

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

I just hope that the Budster(It’s in the public domain now)can “whole” the Muts the whole whay and give us our first complete game, doing it.

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

Thesaurus.com Autistic Statistic!? Hmm, I like that! I’m going to save it for…later.

By Will

August 7, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

Overlord, I would definitely say tonight is somewhat of a steal if they can win behind Buddy C. Oliver Perez may have to face the Braves bats but he totally owns them.

By AthensBrave

August 7, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

Will,

Agreed. I don’t have much confidence in any of the 3 in a close game.

Wickman has a 7+ era on the road, and a 0.00 at home.

Dotel has not been impressive so far.

Soriano, well…who knows what we’ll get when he goes pitches?

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

Lets not say Buddy has to pitch a big game tonight…

We traded for Mark Teixeira to upgrade our offense. Lets pound this guy tonight. He hasn’t seen Tex or Yunel yet. Tex has two career at bats against him. 0 for 2 with a strikeout and Hit by pitch. I’d like to think the offense will give Buddy some support. I would sure be p** if the offense did nothing against this guy.

One more thing, we face Cole Hamels on Friday night with Chuck going. Advantage Philly. Then we have Lance Cormier going on Saturday. It would really be nice to take 2 outta three against the Mets. I have my doubts about the Phillies series. I will be there on Saturday watching Lance Cormier vs. Adam Eaton. A lot of runs in that one……

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this

actually, Thesaurus.com, I was scrolling “up” when I came upon your post. I thought, at first, it was one of SJA’s. :-)

By MEB

August 7, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this

So, Salty was “quiet back there” according to the Texas manager. I knew there was a reason Bobby kept McCann. Bobby is very much old school and would expect his catcher to razz the batter with, “hey swingggg batter batter swingggg” or “Hey Carlos, you’re fly is open” or the old classic “So, how ugly is your mama?”

By Anders

August 7, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Athens Brave - You’re a breath of fresh air in a sea of denial.

By David-ATL14

August 7, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this

Have to agree with Efrim on the Saturday matchup between Cormier and Eaton.

Over/Under on runs scored in that game in that park should be 17.5 LOL!

By Anders

August 7, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

Efrim - Not fair to put tonights game in Tex’s hands. If Perez is on he can be filthy against lefties. If Perez can’t find the plate it doesn’t matter what side of the plate your on - he’ll walk you. Chipper and Andruw are key tonight. Both have always responded well against the Mets.

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

And Andurs you are a sea of denial in a breath of fresh air. Phoof. Go way.

By Earl Weaver, Baltimore Orioles

August 7, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

Go Braves…take down Oliver please…b/c they can’t beat us with any other pitcher other than Oliver…so if we beat Oliver and Buddy has a good outing (which I don’t expect just due to injury) we have a chance to make a huge run.

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

I don’t have confidence in any relievers in a close game. Anything can happen. One fastball left up in the zone or breaking ball that is hung and the game is tied. Baseball is a rough sport.

Mark Wohlers made one mistake to Jim Leyritz and the game was tied. All momentum shifted to the Yankees.

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Anders,

Not just Tex. The offense as a whole.

By Will

August 7, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Anders, dont mind chattin baseball with ya, but nobody is your friend today. $%@# the Mets!!

By daniel

August 7, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

Anders, Tex is a switch hitter too and I don’t expect Perez to pitch to a left-handed batting Tex. All of the Braves hitters will be hitting right handed except for Kelly Johnson and McCann.

By Jersey Gil

August 7, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

Efrim I also has ticket for Saturday game..i glad to see some Braves going to this hostile territory…phillys fan are very hostile with other fan…special when your wife is a Phyllis fan..i be on Sec 211 Row 12 seat 15-16…stop by to say hello to a fellow Bravo fan since 1968. GO BRAVOS…….

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

People, *chuck james * is a very very good pitcher, please remember his age and his number before you talk about him. As many of us have said, it aint his fault bullpen overuse. Plus think of him as avery or something like that, he was not supposed to take so much load, hamptom was to be 3rd and maybe kyle 4th, so he is doing a good job of covering a spot he was not planned for at spring. And he would be even better next year, a strong 3rd pitcher.

Back to todays game, what worries me is that buddy in fact has great number in his last 7 starts, but none of those have come against a good offensive team, only the marlins (4th in RS) and then the astros are 10th. Thats is an important fact and i hope im wrong but theres a good chance it will show up today since the muts have a more runs scored than most teams faced by buddy on those games, but at least the mets are not in the top 5.

Another problem is that Carlos Delgado is waking up, i hope he doesnt give us much of a headache.

By David O'Brien

August 7, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

Weather Man, it’s gonna be 98 and humid in Atlanta today. Not like I’m coming from San Diego, pal. But thanks for the warning, anyway. Nothing like Philly and Flushing in sauna-like conditions. Lovely.

Actually, it ain’t so bad here in New York, at least not yet. Still early.

By BamaBrave

August 7, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

It’s not so much denial, Anders, as it is belief in the power of positive thinking. I, for one, share all of Athens’ doubts regarding Sta-Puft Wickman, Soraino and Dotel…but this series is important enough that I’ll start wearing a rally cap now if it will somehow appease the baseball gods and get the Bravos a win tonight.

By Bob, Journalist

August 7, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

I always thought NaCly looked like a catcher too, especially when he played first base.

Jimmy, you know that I would never be so bold or familiar as to say good night to Gracie … only imperatively suggest that she so say. When I want to tell her good night, I say good night Miss Allen. When I’m telling myself to shut up and/or shut it down, I add the response … when I’m suggesting that others so do, I do not.

“Good night Gracie” is also my “Elvis has left the building” response given when the boss issues me the same command.

Unfortunately, I’m more of a Pat Paulson than a George Burns and seldom leave the podium as intended when I announce my departure.

It’s poor form to end a sentence with a preposition … something I never do. I pains me to ask but what could you have been thinking of?

Hey, Scoots, YAI! Whaddya think about that?!?

My oh my … I seen that one coming … mon ami, you should be ashamed for encouraging such adulteration!!

By Anders

August 7, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

Paladin - Must be game day.

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Jersey Gil,

Awesome. I’ll see you there. Do you think it will be hard to get tickets? My friends and I are going to buy them on gameday. I hear there isn’t a bad seat in the house.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

DOB - These are perfect playing conditions for my NY Metrolatinos! Pedro will be pruning his mango tree in the bullpen.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

Efrim - That should be a layup dude.

By BamaBrave

August 7, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

Jersey Gil…I’m a Phyllis fan too! My favorite Phyllis Diller joke: “I went to the beauty salon today and spent seven hours there. That was just for the estimate!”

By Josh

August 7, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

I think Bobby has to start Kelly tonight. Because honestly, with Escobar starting, and Willie left-handed, who else do you bat second?

I guess that could be Matt Diaz…but in either case do not start Woodward. Kelly is still hitting .283 against lefties. Woodward would love to be hitting .240 against ANYBODY.

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

DOB I almost replied to “Weatherman” but now that you have, let me offer this.

I live in Tennnneeessseee and it’s going to be 100(and that’s the humidity)today. I realize that we don’t qualify as being below the gnat line, but when it’s this hot here, it is equally hot(or uncomfortable) in Atlanta.

So, if the Braves were playing these games at home it wouldn’t be any waltz-in-the-park(weather-wise)either.

Go Braves, and kick some Muts and Phoolies butts.

By AthensBrave

August 7, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

Anders,

The day before a big series, I’d think you’d be on your own mets blog w/ your yankee compadres blogging about Paul la doo-doo and friends?

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Anders,

You mean the tickets? I don’t know, I’ve never been to a Phillies game. I would be at Shea tonight if I wasn’t stuck in work right now.

By Will

August 7, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

Josh, Hate to say it, but i definitely think Bobby will start Woodward tonight. If he will roll his platoons out there in the playoffs he will sure as hell do it in August.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

August 7, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

Kinda wish we had Kyle Davies for this series vs. the Mets. (did I seriously just type that with a straight face?) Dude was 1-0 with a 1.84 ERA, 11 Ks and 14.2 innings pitced in two starts against them this season. The Braves won both games.

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

I would be shocked to see Kelly Johnson in the lineup tonight. I understand he is hitting .283 against lefties, but Perez isn’t an ordinary changeup/fastball/slow curve lefty. The man has a high 80’s slider. Really tough on a lefty. Kelly has faced him 5 times and struck out all 5 times. I know Woodward sucks, but I wouldn’t expect much from Kelly if he was in there.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

Will - Personally I think it’s a 2 out of 3 series that could go either way. Neither team is that superior to the other. The next series is key to the Braves while the Mets host the Marlins. I always worry about a let down after a big series like this.

By Will

August 7, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

DOB, you missed the heat wave. If you’d have come to NY thursday through saturday it would have been no better then it just was in Atlanta.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

Efrim - Yeah, worst case you can scalp easy enough.

By ncscoots

August 7, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Bob, you are correct, sir, mea culpa. A weak moment, LOL.

now, baseball…In Perez’s first three against the Braves, Woodward/Wilson/Prado/Orr were 3-for-21. The rest of the lineup wasn’t exactly on fire, either, but I gotta think Teixeira and Escobar can do a little better than their predecessors.

By Big Easy

August 7, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

Gotta say, I feel for ya DOB. Business has taken me to New York numerous times in the summer months, and there is definitely nothing quite like the sights and smells of Flushing in August…

By Anders

August 7, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

Athens brave Blogs there are to predictable. Speaking of Paul LoDuca - Probably the biggest dissapointment this year. He can barely hit the ball out of the infield, plus his throwing has been weak. Luckily we’ve had Bucket Head Castro as his back up. Watch this guy. He’s got 9 HRs in like 120 AB’s. Sneaky quick bat on the down and in pitch, plus he can single to right. Downside - I think paladin could beat him in a foot race.

By Colin

August 7, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

The Lineup (im only guessing) feel free to chime in.

1.Escobar 2.Diaz 3.Chipper 4.Tex 5.Aj 6.Jeff 7.McCann 8.Kelly 9.Buddy

By Fred from CT

August 7, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

buddy also hits lefty so there is a possability that we will have three lefties in the lineup I just hope that he seperates them.

By JasonInMaine

August 7, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

Lew & KC,

I don’t want to seem like a Chuck basher because I am not. I think he is going to get better, and overall; he will be of even greater benefit to the rotation in the future. Last year, Chuck went 6 innings or more in 66.7% of his starts. This year, he has only gone 6 innings or more in 30% of his starts, including 7 innings 3 times without ever going more than that. Say what you want about the kid, but he is not going deep into games. Period. He is averaging 5.39 innings per game…not enough out of the 3rd spot in the rotation.

Regards,

Jason

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

As good and as patient as KJ has been last month or so…….. i dont think theres a chance woodward will start the game. KJ became much more important the moment renteria went down as he is one of the few guys here that make pitchers work the count (renty, chipper and KJ, maybe tex now that he is here……) So if KJ is not in there….. this guy is gonna be pitching into the 8th inning, i can assure that, if not, i dont think he will make it to the 7th. You would says thats to much of a difference for only one player to make, but you will see at least one of my predictions come true.

Woodward never lasts more than 3 pitches while KJ makes pitchers throw at least 5 or 6 before he is out, if thats the case.

Plus emotionally i prefer watching KJ making an out and at least knowing there is a chance of him getting on base than just giving away 6 or 7 outs in the game (pitcher + woodward).

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

Don’t get me wrong, I hope BC throws Kelly out there. He would show a lot of confidence in Kelly by doing so. Maybe KJ would respond.

By Renegator

August 7, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

I agree. I think its almost a guarantee that Squidward will be in the lineup instead of Kelly. You know how obsessed Booby is with his righty/lefty matchups.

I think we will definitely see McCann tonight since he had the day off before the travel day.

By Will #1

August 7, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

I have to change my name, we have two will’s on here lol! I am the one who made every post this morning except the last one.

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

Colin, excellent lineup. I agree.

Arkansas and Co. as well as kyle had pitched against muts, i dont think i would love to have him start any of the games against muts, the kid is in trouble, he has lots of work to do in the winter cause i dont see him pitching into the 5th inning again this years. Wish him only the best, but i dont think he would do us any good this time around if he was still here.

By AthensBrave

August 7, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

Woodward looks like a player the Braves grabbed off the street.

He’s terrible. I don’t care that KJ has stunk against Liver Pez…he gives us a better chance of winning than wood

Put him in the lineup Bobby!!!!

By BamaBrave

August 7, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Any word on Andruw’s injury? I want him in there tonight, but I gotta say it was nice on Sunday seeing Escobar, Chipper, Tex and Francoeur up with RISP…and you knew those guys would work the count and show some plate discipline. Not so with Easy-Out Andruw.

On the other hand, I love Willie Harris, but watching him defensively is like watching a police car-chase TV show…you know there will be a wreck, you just don’t know when it’s coming…

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Expect chipper and tex to do lots of damage this series, also jeff. Remember my words folks.

Another thing im worried about is brians defense and reyes, since brian has been struggling defensively.

By ncscoots

August 7, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Well, if Perez can hold down the middle of THIS order (Chipper, Tex, Andruw, and Frenchy) two or three times, I’ll just have to tip my cap to the SOB.

Then look for someone to knee-cap him, I guess.

But I can’t see it. That’s just too many good pitches to make, to too many guys who can hurt you with a purpose.

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

AthensBrave which street are you exactly talking about? I cant think of a street where you could pick such a bad player from. I even prefer watching thorman PH than him, at least there is a sense of will, winning attitud, plus i can understand his struggle more as he is a rookie.

By David O'Brien

August 7, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Anders, I gotta say, that was funny. Offensive and politically incorrect, but funny.

By Sir Stealth

August 7, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

I’ll be at Shea tonight. Fair weather Bobby haters and Mets fans alike can take note that I’ll be wearing my Cox #6 shirt/jersey. Looking forward to any reactions that may get riding out on the John Rocker express.

Go Braves

By David O'Brien

August 7, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Paladin, if I thought any of us were half as concerned as you over the issue of Navy sonar, I’d suggest you keep that subject off the blog. If.

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

You have to think they will hit Perez a little tonight. Right?

When they get runners on base against him, they have to have a quality at bat. Whether its moving the runner over or taking more pitches to get that count up. Quality at bats.

By TK

August 7, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

I know Bobby Cox has kept AJ in the middle of the order most of the year even with him hitting less than his weight. But, with his elbow hurting I wonder if he has thought about hitting him 7th or 8th to keep his D in CF and take some swings off his sore elbow.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 7, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Well the moment I leave the Blog, all hell breaks loose on the trade front. Go figure. Now back to Wyoming and all returns to normal. What was the blog reaction to the deal(s). Could’nt get that blog to load. I personaly think we gave up too much. I wonder if JS would make this trade five years ago with the only diffence being he was five years younger. I must say though ol’ Tex seems to have had an impact ala F. McGriff.

Went to the Braves game on Friday and watch them get killed by Colorodo 7-2. My dumbass leaves in the 8th only to find out later Teix hits a bomb. Oh well.

By TexasBrave

August 7, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

I completely understand everyone’s distaste for Woodward and Kelly has improved by leaps and bounds in the hitting department since the last time he saw Perez. However, Woodward is 2 for 7 this season against Perez, thus he has at least touched the ball where Kelly has not in 5 attempts. I am still for giving Kelly a chance today just to see if the adjustments he has made since their last incounter improves Kelly’s day. However, if this day goes the way it has before I think you have to put Woodward in there if we see him in any of the remaining games provided we do not have a better answer (sept. call ups) by the next go around.

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

I’ve gotten my DOB chin-music for the day. Sorry, Coach, I thought I had gotten it by you. And, I wish you would be as observant of some of the other posts made on here. Have a nice day in Flushing, y’hear?

By Jersey Gil

August 7, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

I think that Saturday game is all sold out…but you can still buy it outside the stadium…Citizen park is awasome…you can see the game in any seat…be careful in the 400 club level there are a bad group of fan there.I live in the Atlanta area before moved to Jersey 1999…been in all new stadium lately..(Cinci,Pitt,Houston,)

By Anders

August 7, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

DOB I believe websters definition of a Met fan is offensive and politically incorrect - at least according to those I’ve met on this blog. Have fun at the game tonight - I believe it’s free car parts night as they try to figure out what to do with all those chop shops where they’re building the new Big Shea.

By Lee in South GA

August 7, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

The thing I dread and fear the most about playing the Mets in Shea Stadium tonight is having to listen to all of those airplanes flying over that place. I suppose the fans and players get use to the noise but it is irritating on television or radio to listen to a game. What a rat’s nest.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 7, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

Well the moment I leave the Blog, all hell breaks loose on the trade front. Go figure. Now back to Wyoming and all returns to normal. What was the blog reaction to the deal(s). Could’nt get that blog to load. I personaly think we gave up too much. I wonder if JS would make this trade five years ago with the only diffence being he was five years younger. I must say though ol’ Tex seems to have had an impact ala F. McGriff.

Went to the Braves game on Friday and watch them get killed by Colorodo 7-2. My dumbass leaves in the 8th only to find out later Teix hits a bomb. Oh well.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Lee in South GA Apparently you’re not aware that we now have a Met’s fan as Mayor of NYC. He had them re-direct air trafiic around the stadium on game nights when possible which is most nights. Rudy G ignored the Mets requests for 8 years - true story.

By TexasBrave

August 7, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

TK - Wishful thinking that I bet quite a few on this blog has as well. Unfortunately AJ has earned BC’s Loyality and will be in the 5th spot tonight. I too would like to see him moved to the 6th spot behind Frenchy tonight. Keep dreaming, hoping and praying as well I!!!!

By KC

August 7, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

JasonInMaine: You’re correct. Chuck James has averaged 5.5 innings per start, not 6 per start as I stated earlier. A couple weeks ago, I checked the numbers and he was average about 6 inn. per start… but I my info was outdated.

Still… 4 and 5 starters have been a MUCH bigger problem.

Tim Hudson has been great this year, and is averaging 6.6 innings per start. So it’s still safe to say that Chuck is making the bullpen work (on average) one extra inning every fifth day.

James is not the problem.

By BravesDave

August 7, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

I am shocked that so many on the blog would be happy with 2 out of 3 from the Mets, with some even going so far as to say that 1 out of 3 would not be disasterous. As I said before the Colorado series, it is time for this team to make a move. The Braves have been a .500 team since their 7-1 start, you cannot move up in the standings by playing .500 ball, especially in the bunched up wild card race. The Braves have won 6 of 9 against the Mets…but they haven’t faced off in weeks. It is time to make a statement and sweep this series. Put some pressure on the Mets. I totally disagree that winning 2 out of 3 would give the Braves a psychological edge. The Braves have already won 2 out 3 three times this season, and the Mets are still in first place by 4.5 games. I am sure the Mets will feel very comfortable with a 3.5 game lead if they lose 2 out of 3. I am sure that in their minds, everything is geared toward making a statement against the Braves, and preventing a sweep by the Braves at all costs…hence the shift from Brian Lawrence to Oliver Perez.

The Braves cannot afford to leave the Mets comfortably in first place for much longer. The Mets end of season schedule is too weak. Make a move this week and take 5 out of 6 from the Mets and Phils. That is the recipe for winning this division.

By Lee in South GA

August 7, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

Anders

Had no idea about Rudy G doing that. I certainly hope it does cut down on the noise level some.

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Just off the trade wire:

The Braves have swapped Woodcarp to the Muts for Anders. Anders is being sent (immediately) to Santo Domingo to make room for Julio.

MOTHER FLETCHER’S STORMDOOR AND AIRLINE CALLING PASSENGER ANDERS

By Bob, Journalist

August 7, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

I’d prefer to have Kelly start and just sit on the slider and aggressively go with the pitch … he’s fundamentally sound and should have enough video on Perez so as to know how to anticipate the path of his sliders.

If he succeeds, it’s a big plus and he’s already in the game, if and when there’s a pitching change … if it fails, our expectations for Woodard would have been only slightly better … and Woodward is still available for emergency service … which would not be the case if he started and was later replaced by Kelly.

If you start Woodward, you’re kinda stuck with him for the entire game … but, that’s what I expect Bobby to do.

I trust the judgment of those who say that Brian is better than Salty … but it would have been fun to have three good power hitting switch hitters in the middle of the lineup, coupled with Matt Diaz who hits both righties and lefties.

By GB

August 7, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB!

You think BC and JS have given any thought about returning to the “good ol’ days” and going with a 4-man rotation? Just a thought. What d’ya think??

By JasonInMaine

August 7, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Interesting thoughts on Salty from Buster Olney’s chat:

Buster, with a glut of solid young pitching, why didn’t Boston enter the Saltalamacchia race? Wouldn’t Lester-for-Salty gotten it done?

SportsNation Buster Olney: (12:01 PM ET ) Anthony: The Red Sox wanted Salty, they talked about it, they couldn’t get it done. the Yankees wanted Salty, too, they talked with the Braves, they couldn’t get it done. During the process, Atlanta’s front office determined that there was not a single pitcher available who could be a difference-maker for them this year, starter or reliever, so they decided to use Salty to upgrade their offense…

By Braveheart

August 7, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

I certainly hope it does cut down on the noise level some.

Unfortunately, they’ve made up for the lack of airplane noise with really loud obnoxious music and phony sound effects every two seconds. Not as bad as Yankee Stadium but still pretty loud, awful, and obnoxious.

By David O'Brien

August 7, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

I guess Bobby will have to decide which stats to put the most stock in:

Kelly is 0-for-5 with five strikeouts vs. Perez, but he’s a team-best 10-for-27 (.370) with a double, triple, three homers, five RBIs and an absurd 1.300 OPS (.460 OBP) in eight games vs. the Mets.

Woodward is 2-for-7 lifetime against Perez, and 2-for-12 vs. Mets this season.

I know which way I’d go, without question. Kelly’s hot. He had one awful game vs. Perez, but has raked all season vs. the Mets and most other teams.

By Jersey Gil

August 7, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

Bravesdade I agree with you…i’m more concern with the Philadelphia series than the Mets…we have to win the three in Ny and an then take 2 out 3 from the Phyllis..then we make the statement…We are not playing consistant baseball…good outing/good defense/good offense…..I have a dream(like MLK)it that smoltzie will have a Perfect game again the Mets, before he retired…and this is the series to do it.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

Lee in South GA - trust me night and day difference. Unfortunately they still blare all that canned crap from the sound system.

By beachcomber

August 7, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Colin - I like the lineup in your 11:56 post. Granted KJ has struggled against Perez but in the eight hole, there won’t be as much pressure plus your 1 & 2 guys (Diaz and Escobar) are our hot hands right now.

I know I sure was hell wouldn’t want to face your line-up.

And go Buddy! He is the Mark Lemke of pitchers - gets a ton out of the talent he has.

By The Grinch

August 7, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

Morning, all! Actually, I was watching a show about Blue Whales on the National Geographic channel a couple of months back, and the bit they did on Navy sonar was pretty damned disturbing. Make that two people, though I suppose in different directions (not too worried about muslim submarines).

I’m a little worried about Buddy myself; he does tend to get torn up by the better lineups. We’ll be ok if we can finally remember that Perez isn’t very good, though. And if Bobby can resist the overwhelming temptation to start that %#@&-ing Woodward (that’s the way I’ll refer to him from now on until he departs). Go Braves!

Off to the gym.

By JasonInMaine

August 7, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

KC,

Actually, it’s 5.4 (: Anyway, I take more stock in how many times he has gone 6 innings or more…if he goes 7.2 twice, but then 5 three times, he is still taxing the bullpen at a 60% clip…but, in actuality, he has taxed the bullpen at at a 70% clip this year…he has failed to go at least 6 innings in 70% of his starts. That’s a ton.

That being said…I agree that the 5th spot has been a much bigger problem…but, Carlyle has actually done pretty well. He has gone 6 innings or more in 58% of his starts…far ahead of Chucky…

By JasonInMaine

August 7, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Side note: My stats on Buddy exclude the game he only went 3 innings due to a rain delay…

By KC

August 7, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

DOB: I would start almost rather see BC start Bob Wickman at 2B than Chris Woodward.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Paladin - You get me transferred to Santo Domingo and I’m gone tonight! I can use El Duque’s raft to get there.

By KC

August 7, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

JasonInMaine: No… he’s gone 126-2/3 over 23 starts. That’s 5.51 innings per start. But alas… we’re arguing over chump change. =)

I’m think innings per game is more meaningful than the number of games in which he’s gone 6-plus. Bottom line is, he’s made the bullpen pitch a little over an inning more every fifth day than they should have to.

Sure, it’d be great to get more innings from him. But again, the load he’s placed on the pen is nothing compared to what the bottom of the rotation has done (or failed to do) to tax the bullpen.

By Shaun

August 7, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

GB,

Not trying to butt in but a four-man rotation seems to make more sense. Seems like the way to go is a four-man rotation with somewhat stricter pitch-counts in some cases and the similar pitch-counts in other cases, depending on the pitcher’s age and other things.

Seems a four-man rotation and making sure a pitcher doesn’t throw a ton of pitches in his starts would maximize the innings from your best pitchers.

Seems there is some evidence to suggest that more rest between starts doesn’t so much help a pitcher as throwing too many pitches per start hurts a pitcher.

By Steve from OH

August 7, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

Bob Wickman at 2B!? Oh, the rotundity!

But I would indeed hope that Bobby puts Woodcrap at the end of the bench next to Thorman for the entire series.

By ncscoots

August 7, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

My main reason for playing KJ tonight is as much to keep Diaz out of the 2 hole as anything. Yes, I know he hits. Yes, I’ve seen his stats. Yes, yes, yes. But when I watch the guy swing, I always think he’s a tenth of a second or a quarter of inch from hitting .250, that’s all.

By Shaun

August 7, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I know you probably agree but would Bobby really put a lot of stock in five at-bats? Surely he’s smarter than that (no comments, Robert).

By Jersey Gil

August 7, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

Anders You better eat a lot of “mangoo”” when you are there ok..Good luck…and don’t forgot to visit La Romana.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 7, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

Jason , the idea that a Salty for Lester type trade was an option and went unexplored is almost mind blowing. If it’s true , there is no question , John Schuerholz needs his head examined.

By TexasBrave

August 7, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

OK DOB so lets say Kelly does start, do you hit him in the 2 hole or drop him to 7th or 8th? My vote; you have to go with the righty Diaz in the 2 hole and drop Kelly to 7th ahead of McCann.

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

NCScoots,

Diaz in the 2 hole would suck. He will swing at the first pitch that is a foot near the plate. Kelly would probably do better there.

Damn Renteria’s injury.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Jersey Gil - Sweep 3 from the Mets and take 2 of 3 from the Phils including a perfect game fom Smoltz against the Mets.

Will Bobby Cox win the war in Iraq while he’s up here in the North East as well?

By Lee in South GA

August 7, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

Shaun and GB

That is an interesting take on going to a 4 man rotation. True with the pitch count and starters rarely completing games these days it could possibly be done. Just out of curiosity I wonder how many more victories the Braves would have this year with that system set up. Of course Smoltz and his shoulder troubles I don’t know if it would be for the best or not.

By Braveheart

August 7, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

This is how the Braves and Mets will end up in a tie for the division with a one game playoff to be played in October where Chris Woodward will go from hated to Bucky Dent by winning the division with a late pinch hit homer and become a Braves immortal:

50 games left for the Braves: If the Braves go 6-3 against the Mets, 5-4 against the Phillies, 4-2 against the Marlins, 4-2 against the Nats, 2-1 against the Giants, 2-1 against the DBacks, 2-2 against the Reds, 2-1 against the Cards, 2-2 against the Brewers, and 2-1 against the Astros, the Braves will end up 90-72.

IF the Mets go 3-6 against the Braves, 6-4 against the Fish, 4-3 against the Phils, 5-4 against the Nats, 1-2 against the Padres, 1-2 against the Dodgers, 2-1 against the Pirates, 2-1 against the Reds, 2-1 against the Astros, and 0-1 against the Cardinals, the mets will end up 90-72.

That should give us a playoff if needed. If both are wildcard eligible, then I presume the Braves will get the division by default due to having the best head to head record (not sure about that rule thought).

By Yars

August 7, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

KJ may not have a good history against Perez, but he has a great eye & has a much better chance at taking a walk against Perez than Woodward would. I’m sure KJ has watched some film of Perez & has already thought of what adjustments to make next time he faces him. Pendleton more than likely gave him some advice as well.

By KC

August 7, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

BC tends to go with the (lefty-righty) book against tough left-handed pitchers. I’ll bet Woodwards in the lineup tonight… as much as I hate to say that.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

Wickman at 2nd. Talk about taking away the right side of the infield.

He’d be a Delgado shift all by himself!

By KC

August 7, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Efrim: Yeah… Escobar and Johnson, 1 and 2, makes the most sense until Rent returns. I’m just praying Woodward won’t be in the lineup… though as I just mentioned, I suspect he will be.

By jed

August 7, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

i just hope somebody shotguns oliver perez. what a punkass goober!

By az_braves_fan

August 7, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

DOB - I saw an article on atlantabraves.com about payroll being increased. What do you know about this?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 7, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

ncscoots That’s what is said about a lot of hitters that bat .250, they are just that amount away from batting .300. Ride that hoss while you can.

Whew, it was almost too hot to swim today. @#%##%$##@@ tractor did not want to start so after 1/2 hour of that, decided swimming was a better alternative than working anyway.

This weather reminds me of the two a days of early football practice. I played back in the days when coaches were stupid and denied you any water for about 2 hours. It is a wonder more kids didn’t die. Of course that could explain what is wrong with me.

Now baseball…. I know why Bobby keeps playing Woodward, I just don’t know that it will work. Come on Willie Aybar….. We can hardly wait for your return.

DOB Any hint yet on who the Braves called up for tonight’s game?

By Marty

August 7, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

I love Bobby, but I’d rather see him start my mom at second base than Chris Woodward. Kelly is hitting as well as anyone right now, and he should be starting every game.

Oh, and I agree with putting Kelly near the top of the order, but how can some people still continue to talk badly about Matt Diaz? He hit .329 last season — in what, 350 AB? — and he’s hitting .350 this year. Sure, his style is unorthodox, but you can’t argue with the results.

By Jersey Gil

August 7, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Anders If the President it smart…he will consult with BC…he is a good strategic man….And also it not cost anything and not harm to anyone to Dream….

By Anders

August 7, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Braveheart - I don’t think what you suggested is impossible. It’s a tight wire act for sure but not completely unreasonable in any of those series.

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

Marty

Diaz is a very good hitter. But we need our #2 hitter to take some pitches tonight. I would bat him lower in the order. Maybe he will pop one off Oliver with runners on base.

By Bob, Journalist

August 7, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

“That is the recipe for winning this division” … I’m sure both teams would like to win each and every game and both will be trying to so do. However, I don’t see why you would be shocked at the attitude referenced in your post.

Hopefully the Mets will attach extreme importance to winning the first game for it will increase our chances if they fail to so do.

Methinks that the recipe for winning the division is to do your best to win each game since that’s all that you can do … and not to panic and/or consider anything to be disastrous so long as you’re in the competition for the title since so doing most certainly assures failure.

You should certainly be aware of the urgency of the moment and make an especial effort do the things that are likely to make it happen … but overdoing it leads to self-fulfilling prophecy and benefits neither the fans nor the players.

It’s not how many times you get knocked down but rather how many times you get up that measures the man.

By Rick Roberts

August 7, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

Domination is the main reason the Braves need to win 2-3 each vs. the Mets and Phils. Like a Prize Fight, right now the Braves need to step up and throw the knockout punch. The Mets and Phils both have an arrogance when it comes to playing the Braves—need to knock them down a peg right now. The Braves need the confidence, too. If they can pull this off, I think they will take off as a team—if not, then we’re in trouble.

Regarding KJ vs. lefties—we all agree that KJ is the man. Many times, LHP have a tough time getting LH batters out—issue more walks. Forget the matchups BC, and play your best players. This is no time to aid and abet the enemy.

Note Brent Lillibridge in Richmond—me thinks he is our 2B next year. Speed and average with some pop. KJ does make key errors, it seems and is not fast. Also, Martin Prado is doing well—we are well stocked up the middle. Go Richmond—would be nice to win the Division.

By Braveheart

August 7, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

I think this series has Frenchy written all over it. I think Frenchy is gonna be en fuego and bang out a couple of homers and have 6 RBIS.

By Braveheart

August 7, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

Anders, thanks, you are a reasonable man. It’s a tight wire act for sure. Well, anyways, that is my best case scenario - my thoughts, wishes, hopes, beliefs, feelings, speculation on how it will all play itself out.

By David O'Brien

August 7, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

Az Braves Fan, Tim Tucker did a very solid and informative article on the payroll subject in the Sunday AJC. Here’s the link, just slap it in your story field, or whatever that’s called up there:

www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/braves/stories/2007/08/04/bravespayroll_0805.html

By Yars

August 7, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

Gil…..Oh, the memories of hot summer football practice. Those were the days. Coach Hunt would run us boys until the assistants told him to stop! We would go 2, sometimes 3 hours without water. Had to stand up the entire practice. If you were caught with your hands on your knees or sitting down, you had to run 3 times around the field, carrying a medicine ball. Go home with bruises everywhere & sometimes too tired & emotionally drained to even eat. We survived though.

By David O'Brien

August 7, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

I’m hearing it’s probably going to be Prado, but won’t know for sure until we get there. They don’t announce these things before team gets to park. Devine will be sent down, I’m 99.9-percent certain.

By Fred from CT

August 7, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

Braveheart I think AJ is about to go off and have a big road trip. I hope we are both right.

By Lee in South GA

August 7, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

Is it inhuman or wrong for a fan to wish a player (Woodward) to sustain a minor not major injury and be out for the remainder of the season. If it is … “I don’t wanna be right”. This seems acceptable in football fans more than baseball fans.

Maybe Corky can be the “Buddy Dent” of the Braves instead, if it comes to that.

By David O'Brien

August 7, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

GB, I’m assuming your’re serious about a four-man rotation, so I’ll answer seriously: Uh, no. Absolutely not going to happen.

By TexasBrave

August 7, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

I am sure everyone has read the Tim Tucker article on the AJC website, but I just have to say that give me a renewed sense of optimism to read that there seems not to be a cap on payroll. Not to say that we can go out and spend frivolously, but I have ever confidence that JS will be able to field a team that will be able to win the World Series next year if not this year.

When I first heard that we did have a little wiggle room through the Tex trade, I thought that probably meant an extra 10 million. But this article makes it sound like we could get back to the 105 million as long as the signings made good business sense. I can’t imagine JS and the CEO of the Braves (can’t remember his name) not making good player/business decisions.

Go Braves and Liberty Media!!!!!

By Wolfpack Man

August 7, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

Two questions (and they may have already been answer from above):

1. Has Julio officially cleared waivers and been assigned a minor league assignment? I know that I read that 4PM et Monday was the deadline for him to clear waivers. I guess the Braves could still be awaiting as answer from Julio on the assignment.

and

1. Which position player is going to be called up to replace Joey Devine for the coming series? I am assuming that Devine is the odd pitcher out, with the Braves looking to drop back to 12 pitchers. I would guess either Prado or Orr to get the call, but that may be incorrect.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 7, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

One of the San Diego papers are reporting that the Padres are going to release David Wells. I think Wells is somebody the Braves should take a look at. I realize he is 44 years old but he would be a better option than the current options. Besides Wells is a veteran with postseason experience and success. He loves pennant races and has said in the past he would love to play for Bobby Cox.

By Shaun

August 7, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

Lee in South GA,

The idea I’ve read from people who’ve done some research on the subject is that it’s not so much the lack of extra rest that’s harmful (although I’m sure rest is necessary), but pitching when tired.

A guy will be fine pitching with three days rest instead of four but he won’t be fine if he throws 180 pitches instead of 120.

And the number of pitches are pitcher should be allowed to throw depends on the pitcher (age being a major factor).

By Braveheart

August 7, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Yep, Gil, I was thinking that same exact thought yesterday about two a days while I was sweating every ounce of fluid out of me while walking from the car into Kroger. I was thinking how was I once tough enough for this humidity but now am not? Well anyways our coach and his brother were some mean ole SOBs who acted like drill sergeants. BUt at least they did allow us water.

Coach hopefully is in heaven now, having died in the Twin Towers that terrible morning. Surely God must have him running two days for the sunnavaguns in limbo trying to earn their way into heaven. Surely being in limbo must mean they are close to the heat given off by hell, so he must be running some wicked hot two a days right about now.

By Yars

August 7, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Rick…..KJ’s defense at 2B will only get better. He’s only made I think 10 errors, or is it less than that? He has a decent arm, nothing flashy, but gets the job done. If Bobby & JS were not happy with his defense, they would have probably tried to trade him before the deadline. I hope next season, Bobby plays KJ at 2B 150 games, (no more of this platoon) puts him in either the #2 or #5 spot in the lineup, & keeps him there. Lillibridge is expendable. I hope he finishes the season in Richmond tearing it up so that way his stock will be high come winter.

By Shaun

August 7, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

GB,

Yeah, I agree with DOB. No team is going to go with a four-man rotation unless they can really rationalize it.

Teams have become too conservative with pitcher usage. Not so much in terms of pitch-counts (that should be a welcomed change) but in terms of days resting a pitcher. And since every team uses a five-man rotation, no team is going to go with a four-man under normal circumstances.

By TexasBrave

August 7, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Robert (Justice Is The Best) - No offense, but have you ever heard of anyone saying that they wouldn’t want to play for BC?

By Ron

August 7, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

BC has to start KJ tonight!!! You go with YOUR best lineup!!! What IF The Braves and Mets make the Playoffs and we face each other in the LCS? What you gonna do start Woodward, well actually it would probably be Escobar starting at 2nd, but what if Edgar is a little bit hurt and needs a day off, what you gonna do start Woodward over KJ in the PLAYOFFS? Thats a guranteed loss right there!!!

By Lee in South GA

August 7, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

David Wells ERA has just about ballooned to his waist size the 4 or 5 games but I saw where he may be released also. That game with the Cardinals and Padres last night, just about ended his tenure with the Padres.

By Salty

August 7, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

KJ in the line-up…has to be, and in the 2-hole. He takes pitches…along with Hoss and Tex, makes sure Perez has to make some pitches, or stay out in the heat. Also, if KJ is in the 8-hole, that’s three lefties at the bottom…not good, IMO.

Diaz - 7 or 8, pick a spot. He’s gonna swing at the first or second pitch, most assuredly. Make Perez decide whether to face the pitcher leading off, or try to get him that inning.

4-man rotation - and the bullpen isn’t taxed enough already? In truth, hasn’t it seemed too much like a 4-man as it is?

By Ron

August 7, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion) Dude I would not have made that trade for Lester either!!! You dont trade Salty for a guy that JUST got over cancer, and his cancer COULD come back, and he may have to retire because of it!!! No way you do that!!! I hope he stays cancer free, but you never know about that kind of stuff!!! Who knows he may only pitch for 2 more years and the Cancer could come back(he may not even pitch that good anyway), OR he may have a long career and the Cancer might not EVER come back!!!

By KC

August 7, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Joey Devine must know the route between Richmond and Atlanta really, really well by now.

By Eric C.

August 7, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Winning the division would be nice…but in the grand scheme of things, the wildcard is just as nice…ask Florida, Boston, and Anaheim. Too much focus is being placed on the division and winning this series. I don’t see the Braves catching the Mets…even if they “win” (2-1) the last 3 series with them. The Mets aren’t better on paper, but they rarely beat themselves. In stating the obvious, the wildcard is more attainable.

By David O'Brien

August 7, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

I agree with Robert (JIB), Wells is worth looking into if the Padres release him.

By ssiscribe

August 7, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

Top of the afternoon, denizens. As the fierce heat and humidity prevails, the pennant race rockets up a few degrees as the Braves and Mets converge on Shea Stadium for tonight’s opener of a three-game showdown.

A lot is at stake, obviously. It may not be do-or-die, but I for one woke up this morning with the blood pumping a little brisker in anticipation of this series. Getting swept puts the Braves 7 1/2 games out of first with 47 to go, definitely a daunting task to face.

A sweep pulls the Braves to within 1 1/2 games of the top spot in the NL East. It also would launch the blood-thirsty New York media on the occupants of Flushing, for sure, with the Yankees charging hard for the AL wild card and grabbing headlines along the way.

Don’t think for one minute that’s not in the back of the minds of those in Mets Nation (I said the fans, not the players). Should the Braves jump out to a big lead tonight, you’ll see the denizens in Shea look around with that, “here we go again” look on their faces.

I love the Braves’ chances in this series, I really do. I think the two victories over the weekend over Colorado gave Atlanta a really nice boost heading into the series. Smoltz and Hudson at the back end of the series, and Carlyle has been very effective most of the season.

This Braves team made quite a statement off the field last week, wheeling and dealing itself from the midst of the contenders for an NL playoff spot to the short list of teams that realistically can raise the big trophy in late October. Tonight represents the start of a week where the Braves can make quite a statement on the field.

After three months of up-and-down baseball, go time has arrived. It’s time for the new-look Braves to resemble the World Series contender they appear to be, and the time starts tonight at Flushing.

The Scribe abides.

—30—

By BamaBrave

August 7, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

David Wells… Moxie counts for something, that’s for sure, Robert JITB), but there’s a reason why SD is releasing the guy. He only goes about 5 and a third per start and here’s the point: he’s not fooling anyone anymore. He’s done. ERA almost to 6.00. I’d rather roll the dice on a minor leaguer who’s realtively unknown to the competition. And cross my fingers.

By Renegator

August 7, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand why Bobby calls up Devine and then doesn’t use him. What’s the point. Might as well call up someone you have confidence in and are going to use…

By Braveheart

August 7, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

When Devine is going up and down from the majors to the minors, do you think he orders a Denny’s Grand Slam meal while he is on the road driving to and fro?

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

I took a long nap so I can, hopefully, stay awake and watch the game live and blog with you big boys during it. Can I? Can I? Pleasee!!~!

Grinch As for your interest in Muslim submarines: They have a lot of similarity to your love life. :-)

By Shaun

August 7, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Coach or anyone else who’s interested,

Did you see the espn.com discussion piece about the greatest slugger of all-time? Pretty interesting. If you didn’t, check it out.

For what it’s worth, I think Babe Ruth is it because of his total, his frequency and because he was the first guy to really figure it out.

By TennesseePaul

August 7, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Just ran the Favorite Toy on a few guys careers. I was curious because the Toy keeps popping up in articles as a fairly certain reference of the demise of the 300 game winner. Apparently, Maddux, Glavine, Randy Johnson, and Clemens all will fall short of winning 300 games when you look at their totals at the age of 32. Randy is going to struggle to get to 200 while Maddux is close. 41% chance he gets it.
I think the Toy is broken. Or perhaps it needs to be re-evaluated and marketed for the pre-tween age group.

By Salty

August 7, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Good points, Eric C, that the wildcard is a worthy goal. Regardless, the Braves still must have a successful road trip (no less than 3-3), since the Mets (ya never know!) and Phils are WC competition as well. At a minimum, the Braves need to stay 2-3 in the WC race…as the season winnows down, hurdling a number of teams becomes very tough.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

Braveheart - I also happen to agree with you on Franceur. I can’t say I know a lot about him but what I’ve seen lately is a guy who looks like he’s ready to step up to the next level. Hitting righty’s and lefty’s plus he can get a hit behind in the count. All good signs. I can see him having a big series. I hope not but he’s definetly capable.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 7, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave, Kenny Lofton didn’t seem to like his tenure here with the Braves, but other than that good point.

Tonight’s game is a big one. I personally think Oliver Perez is now in the heads of the Braves. I hadn’t realized that the three Braves losses this season to the Mets were all against Oliver Perez. I can guarantee those players (on both sides) know that. If the Braves can win tonight, they will have an excellent chance at sweeping this series. Smoltz will be on his game like he always is duing a big game and Hudson is on fire right now.

By DE Braves fan

August 7, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

I was looking at the Braves farm system to see what has happened down in the farm in the past month and I have one observation and one question.

KK is really struggling at AA (22K in 36 AB) after tearing it up at Myrtle Beach. Hopefully this is just him learning to hit at the next level.

Does anyone know what happened to the Georgia kid that we drafted #1 this year, Heyward? He wasn’t on the roster of any Braves team.

Too bad we dealt Davies (at least as far as this series is concerned). He seemed to have the Muts number.

By Josh H

August 7, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

*By Efrim

August 7, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

NCScoots,

Diaz in the 2 hole would suck. He will swing at the first pitch that is a foot near the plate. Kelly would probably do better there.

Damn Renteria’s injury. *

Yeah, and he’d probably hit into right field :).

I agree. Diaz is not really a 2-hole hitter. He’s better at the bottom of the lineup, with pitchers actually trying to pitch around him…

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 7, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

BamaBrave, I respectfully disagree. Wells’ ERA has balooned becaue of his last four starts. Until then he had pitched okay. And as sad as this is, Wells’ 6.00 ERA is better than anybody who has been in the fifth spot (Redman, Davies, Cormier, or Reyes). Look at the numbers. Wells would be all reward and no risk as a pickup. Why not give it a shot?

By Lee in South GA

August 7, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Wells has playoff experience. I would take him over Jo Jo Reyes for starting a game any day of the week. The thought of Wells and Wickman on a team is intriguing to say the least.

By Fred from CT

August 7, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

I would take a look at wells if he is released. If he stinks and gets bombed oh well our fifth spot has been terrible all year maybe we get lucky and wells has one last run in him.

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

Kala struggled at Myrtle Beach at first last year as well. He will adjust.

4 hours to go. I haven’t been this nervous for a regular season game in a while.

By TexasBrave

August 7, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Renegator - DOB said one time that Bobby doesn’t have a whole lot of say on who gets called up. If I remember correctly DOB said that it was JS and the Director for minor league personel. Please Mr. DOB correct me if I am wrong.

Your right though, it doesn’t make much sense to bring up someone you are not going to use. Thus perhaps JS should ask Bobby who he wants so Bobby will use them and not tax everone else.

By Jersey Gil

August 7, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

De Braves Fan Heyward is not sign yet…should be an anouncement soom…I think he got an agreement with the Braves. The good news in the minor is the other Cuban guy…Canizares…is killing the ball in 25 Games 73 at bat hitting 370 with 18 Rbi…watch out Thorman…Also julio is not in the Richmond Roster get, he still in his home in Fla.

By DE Braves fan

August 7, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Wells, Wickman and Paronto that is a mass of humanity right there, enough to scare the living daylights out of any all-you-can eat buffet owner.

By AthensBrave

August 7, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Smoltz will be on his game like he always is duing a big game

Robert, I hope so, but Smoltz hasn’t looked like his dominating self lately. I believe he’s hiding how much that shoulder is bothering him.

By Rodger

August 7, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

DOB: I would start almost rather see BC start Bob Wickman at 2B than Chris Woodward

Just think of the damage Wicky could do diving for a couple of grounders. Shea would look loke the old days at AFC…or Candlesh!t

By AthensBrave

August 7, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

I hear ya…I’ve had nervous tingling in my arms all day. A packed shea stadium all screaming to put us away, while we are fighting to compete for the division. HUGE

By DAP

August 7, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Marty i would like to see my mom start at 2nd base too! that would be so funny! maybe not in a game that matter, though…i guess she can wait until we clinch.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Efrim - I just left Scores in Manhattan 15 minutes ago. I saw Chipper and Tex whooping it up in there. Not so sure they’re taking this series as seriously as you.

By Chop Chop

August 7, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Roughly 350 innings in 68 starts.

That’s what the Braves have gotten out of the 3-4-5 spots (James, Carlyle, Davies, Reyes, Redman, Lerew, Cormier) in the rotation this year.

Just a shade under 5.2 innings a start.

50 games left, boys. Time to fool the stat nerds.

Oh, and as for Boomer…I don’t see how Wells would be any better playing in East Coast saunas for the next 8 weeks. Even so, it couldn’t hurt to bring him in for a look.

By Rodger

August 7, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

When Devine is going up and down from the majors to the minors, do you think he orders a Denny’s Grand Slam meal while he is on the road driving to and fro?

Braveheart, that is COLD!

By BamaBrave

August 7, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

Mind you, Robert, I’m not dead-set against it…I’ve always liked his fire and, shall we say, lust for life. I just think Wells is toast, especially by this point in the season. He’s not fooling anyone because he’s worn out, and a new uniform ain’t gonna help him. I suspect that’s why his ERA has bloomed recently. Hey, I’m all for finding someone to shore up our frightfully weak 4 and 5 spots, but doing that with castaways…yikes.

By Shaun

August 7, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

Good post. Everyone keeps saying that Glavine could be the last 300-game winner. But I’m sure that song and dance has been going on for half a century now.

Someone will win 300 again. Especially with how long pitchers are going these days. Look at how many are effective into their 40s nowadays. And I would be shocked if teams don’t keep getting smarter in terms of knowing how to keep pitchers healthier longer.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 7, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

With Paronto, Wickman, and Wells on the roster the clubhouse guy would not be a happy man. Can you imagine the laundry detergetn that would be used for those uniforms? I won’t even get into the team meal. Add Yates, Andruw, and Big Tex onto that list and I bet the Braves have the highest laundry and food budget in the majors.

By Braveheart

August 7, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Rodger you’re right that was cold and uncalled for. BUT do you think Dotel and Soriano requested his demotion, accusing Devine of spreading the contagious grand slam bug around the bullpen?

Anders, the funny thing is you might be just catching on to him but most of us have been keeping our eye on Frenchy since he was 15 years old, maybe even younger. He was the high school phenom of high school phenoms down here - even more well known for his football exploits than his baseball just because of where people’s priorities are down here. Living up there, I would compare it to the buzz and scrutiny that faced Malik Sealy, Felipe Lopez, Jamal Mashburn, Bobby Hurley, Kenny Anderson, Lamar Odom, Ron Artest, Stephon Marbury up there when they were high school teenaged phenoms.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Guys You’re beating this starting pitcher thing to death. The Braves starting pitching isn’t much better or worse than most teams. There are a select few like the Red Sox who are deep in starters. The rest of baseball gets 7 on a good day, 6 on an average day and 5 or less on a bad day from their starters. that’s why teams have been loading up on relievers and frankly overpaying for them. There are even lots of spares in the minors on good teams. That’s the state of baseball today. Average starting pitching followed by effective relief pitching with some specialists thrown in. Especially in the NL.

By MGL

August 7, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Wells is done, last 4 games, 26 ER 16.2 INN, ERA 14.4.

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Anders

Funny. I just left Astoria and saw David Wright behind the bar serving and pounding shots of tequila.

By Salty

August 7, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

DE BravesFan Delaware? If so, where…and don’t say Wilmington. That’s just south Philly! :-)

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

Will, i dont think there is such thing as a pitcher that owns the Braves (Schilling and Sheets are exceptions), the braves own themselves, one day they are too hot the next cold as south pole….. it depends on how they woke up today.

By Braveheart

August 7, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

David Wells probably would have been a 300 game winner if he did not get such a late start in his career on being a starter. He wasn’t 30 years old before he started getting 30 starts in a season and he has managed 235 wins.

His conditioning (or lack thereof) held him back early in his career because of people’s perceptions about whether a big fat guy could start and not giving him enough of a chance to start. His conditioning also may have held him back as well from being more consistent. Who knows? Maybe he might not have been as good if he was skinnier? Some people are what they are and what their body types are and often are better just staying true to who they are and what their body type is.

Still won’t ever forget him making fun of Roger Clemens workout routine in the 2003 World Series and saying he did not need to do that himself and then him going out there and throwing out his back the very next day and letting the Yankees down. Still think that maybe if he had dedicated himself to getting skinnier, he would have been a much better, more consistent pitcher - kind of similar to how Charles Barkley rededicated himself and lost all that weight and acted like a man on a mission carrying the Suns to the finals in 1993.

Still, I would pick up Wells in a heartbeat. He might not be as good as he once was but can still be as good once as he ever was. We only have about 10 starts left for him to pitch in, so maybe he can be as good once as he ever was during those 10 starts.

BTW, has anyone else said who the hell is that stick figure in Kerry Wood’s body? It looks like the ghost of Black Jack McDowell has taken over Kerry Wood’s corpse.

By Dawg88

August 7, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

Mr. O’Brien,

Has Julio Franco officially cleared waivers? And if he has, has he decided to resign with the Braves and report to the minors?

Thank You! God Bless!

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

Wells!? Just what we need—another fat-butt in our bullpen. If that happens we are going to have to hire Jenny Craig as our bullpen coach.

By Chase

August 7, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

I don’t know how its gonna go tonight (I think we’ll take it) BUT if I were the METS I’d be praying to win tonight because if they don’t… they could be looking at getting swept

I can easily see the BRAVES blowing them out tonight! PEREZ has is due to have a bad game against us!

By BamaBrave

August 7, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

LOL. We got Chino Cadahia hittin’ the ARA buffet too, Robert. Liberty might have to increase clubhouse expenses along with payroll…

By GB

August 7, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

To DOB, Shaun, & Lee in South GA,

OK, I guess I’m wearing my age on my sleeve, but, it doesn’t seem that long ago when you had Whitey Ford, Ralph Terry, Mel Stottelmyre, & Bill Stafford as the mainstays in the early ‘60’s in the Bronx typically going 7 innings or better on each outing, and Loius Arroyo and Hal Reniff doing the bulk of the relief work. Now I’m comparing (w/o stats)…Smoltzie, Huddy, Chuckie, & Buddy, with a consistent Soriano and Wick. Hate that we lost Gonzo. Seems it was so much simpler back then than what it is now throwing all this crap out there a the “5th starter” this year. Not to mention all those we,ve brought up-down an/or dumped in middle relief. OK, DOB, adament about a 5th starter?? How ‘bout Moylen??? Can’t do any worse than what I’m reading about Cormier.

By Chop Chop

August 7, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

Anders, the Braves have played 7 extra inning games in their last 18. The bullpen pitched around 41 innings in those games, including 11 innings out of 14 in a 12-11 loss to Houston.

When the 3-4-5 starters are only giving a little over 5 innings a game on average, that is going to wear out a bullpen. Also, the Braves haven’t had many of your 7-inning “good” days or 6-inning “average” days in the 3-4-5 spots. It’s just a fact.

Which bullpens in the majors are taxed the most? The Braves are right up there in the top five, so our whining is justified. 14 division titles can’t change the state of our current starting rotation.

It’s really “Amazin’” that the Braves are in the hunt with pitching like that.

By Shaun

August 7, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Anders,

I think that’s been the state of baseball forever. We just think it’s unique to today because now teams use one reliever to sometimes only throw to one freakin’ batter. Pitching staffs have expanded artificially creating a pitcher shortage.

It’s extremely counterintuitive to believe that there is actually a shortage of pitching talent in the world today compared to past eras. I’m sure humans know more about pitching a baseball, there are more people on earth so there are more who are interested and are good at pitching a baseball, there is no segregation to keep such people with dark skin to reach the major leagues.

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

I wanted to point at something else that its important on why the braves are so inconsistent….. Its name is defense. Do you really think pitchers like glavine, smoltz and maddux did the job on their own? Nope they didnt. There was lots of defense behind them, a thing that i my point of view, the braves lack these days.

Braves defense in the infield is weak, and when i mean weak, what im saying is that KJ is no mark lemke, Renteria is no belliard (the guy went 212 games making just 1 error, thats insane DDD), Gallarraga, Crime dog, Bream, those guys were DDDDD, TP much better than Chipper (he has done superb job as time has pass. Brian makes a PB like 5 times a week or at least it feels like it.

I dont have the numbers but, man, i have seen KJ and Edgar drop lots of balls that belliard would have made without a glove on.

Defense this days is just AVERAGE, not GREAT as it was before, therefore lots of games have been lost or needed to go extras asking extrawork from bullpen.

By geauxbraves2000

August 7, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Tonight is the important game. If the Braves can somehow figure out Perez and get the “W”, that’d put them 3 1/2 back and in the driver’s seat for game two. If Perez again dominates the lineup, then the Braves are 5 1/2 back and they’d be playing under pressure just trying to win games 2 and 3. I’d rather see them play relaxed than under pressure.

I don’t know if this was planned or not, but it was a brilliant move on the Mets’ part starting Perez tonight.

Geaux Braves!!

By Anders

August 7, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

Braveheart I have family in Alpharetta - They have told me about him some time ago. What I meant was until the last month or so I haven’t been watching the Braves on a regualr basis to assess how he’s playing. I usually spend my non Met time watching the Red Sox. Awesome baseball town. If you’ve never been to the Fens I reccomend it. It’s all sawx all the time.

By raykelsey

August 7, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

DOB, or anyone… could someone, in layman’s terms, explain the economics of shedding the salaries of Renteria, Hampton, and Andruw and what that would mean for a club that, fortuitously, ALREADY HAS ON ITS CURRENT ROSTER bargains like Yunel, Diaz, and Harris, and all the while INCREASING in payroll?

Is it pie in the sky reasoning on my part to think that the young staples hitting their prime relatively affordably, a bullpen that needs no upgrade, and the exorcism of the ghost of x-mas past, Mike Hampton, bodes something quite special for us next year? With all the offensive pieces in place, wouldn’t we be in prime position to pick up another ace—if not two?

In other words, shouldn’t every National League team brace themselves for the perfect storm coming out of Atlanta in ‘08?

By DE Braves fan

August 7, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

I work in Wilmington and live in Newark (that’s pronounced NEW-ark to differentiate from the hell-hole in Jersey - sorry Gil).

I’m trying to talk the wife into going to Friday’s game in Philly. She’s still shell-shocked from witnessing the Ryan Howard’s 3 HR game against Huddy last year. She thinks she’s bad luck for the Braves (having never seen them win in person - albeit in 4 total games).

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

Chase i dont think todays game is the game the muts have better chance, i like our chances better…… their best chance is el duque.

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

Chase i dont think todays game is the game the muts have better chance, i like our chances better…… their best chance is el duque. El duque is to the what smoltz is for us.

By Shaun

August 7, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

I know your half kidding about Kerry Wood but I have a feeling he looks a lot thinner than he really is.

I mean on TV Chipper doesn’t look small, but he doesn’t look like a 6’4”, 210-pound dude.

By Double Deuce

August 7, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Interesting thought on David Wells. My opinion is that if he doesn’t cost anything what is there to lose. A couple of starts by Lance Cormier? It wouldn’t be the first time in history a guy gets rejuvinated by a change of scenery. He certainly can’t be much worse than what we’ve seen in the 5th spot this year.

Note to Rick Roberts…I can’t even imagine anyone talking about replacing KJ at second with an untested minor leaguer. KJ has the best approach at the plate than anyone on this team and that’s saying a lot. He is a hitter, pure and simple. His defense is adequate and will only get better. If Lillibridge is playing 2nd next year it won’t be in Atlanta.

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

Robert I agree wells is worth a look, but i wouldnt take him, we dont need a guy that is in his final days, we already have smoltz. I dont think it would be very smart to have a pitching rotation made of Smoltz, Hampton and Wells, could you imagine if the 3 of them go down cause they dont have fresh arms anymore? We would be the mirror image of the yankees.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Efrim Dude, you blew it picking David Wright. He was probably picking up a merit badge at Cuty Hall today. He’s taking over Jeter’s spot in this town. Has a Smart agent too, rather than getting paid to advertise Vitamin Water he took a small piece of ownership. When those Atlanta Coca Cola boys bought the company Wright made a cool $21 mil for one years work!

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Sorry robert, i though you were talking about wells for next year.

By Braveheart

August 7, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Anders, never been to Fenway. Always say I am gonna go but never make it. Maybe next year.

BTW, Anders, I was just walking down the street and saw Jose Reyes, Carlos Delgado, Moises Alou, and Oliver Perez in a drunken stupor stumbling out of Jimmy’s Cafe.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

Paladin - Jenny Craig - great line!

I’m figuring they could dress Wells and Wickman up like Sumo wrestlers and let’s see who knocks who off the mound first during the 7th inning stretch!

By Jersey Gil

August 7, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

DE braves fan It ok…i know Jersey is a hell-hole special the Taxes we paid here. Tell you wife don’t be a shame ,i was in that game that day…and my wife is a phillys fan and she shove it in to my face….i was thinking the same thing last year…everytime i gone to the Phyllis games again my Bravo we lost…but is different this year…remember the first three games this season….wow…that was sweet…

By Mo in the boonies

August 7, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy All is forgiven…but I still don’t agree with you on Leo. Sorry about the “witty crack”. Fact is I might have been a bit edgy, because one gets the impression that newbies are not too welcome here. That unless you are one of the “good old boys,” you are a Troll or a Jackal etc… I came here to read about the games I couldn’t see, but didn’t expect to see all the attacks on people.

BamaBrave Just what position does the JS off spring play? And is he any good, or is it just nepotism?

I’m not too worried about Perez, he has only won three more than he lost. Both Smoltz and Hudson would have more than that, if they hadn’t been pulled too early for an inept bullpen. One can only hope that BC leaves them in during this next series as long as they are capable of pitching. Forget the righty/lefty crap, and just “rest” the bullpen for at least their two games.

Is Sports South a local Atlanta channel or what? I see it listed on my satellite channel guide, but I can’t get it. Bummer!

Haven’t read half the blog so am going to now.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Overlord - Good point on defense. Word up here is that is the exact reason the Mets picked up Castillo. Gotay was plenty of bat but defensively he is below average. You have to be strong up the middle. Most long innings have a three hopper or two in them.

By Tyler

August 7, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

Overlord, we would not be keeping Wells. He would be a short term fix for this year to stabilize our 5th spot in the rotation. He would be long gone after this year most likely.

By Braveheart

August 7, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I hear ya on Kerry Wood and Chipper. I always think the same exact thing about Chipper. Some guys look 6 feet, 4 inches on television but for some reason he never does to me. I always think of him as a 6 foot guy or something for some reason until I remember Chipper is 6’4”. It’s like Frenchy and Chipper are the same height but Frenchy just seems much bigger and taller than Chipper.

As for Kerry Wood, i guess it just throws you off when you are kinda used to seeing him as a hurly burly Texas guy like Clemens or Ryan. Or maybe just used to thinking of him in that way because I think of the flame throwing Texas guys when I think of Clemens and Ryan and Kerry, so I somehow immediately think Wood is supposed to look like Clemens or Ryan. Also, he seems to like baggy uniforms, so he can look either heavier than he is or skinnier than he is depending upon even minor weight fluctuations.

By Ben

August 7, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

MLB reporting, Prado called up

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

Hey who did the braves sent down to call up martin prado? he is in the roster today. Called up today.

By Jersey Gil

August 7, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

Well guys good luck tonight…the only problem i have for tonight games that i have to listen and watch to that guys (keith hernadez)my Indemand xtra inning pkg have SYN network doing the game in this area. GO BRAVOS…. Sign off

By ncscoots

August 7, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Fellas, I give high props of the personnel folks at the Braves re Diaz. It’s a fact that I would never have been able to see past that swing, I admit it. That somebody was able to do so and evaluate him as an asset, that’s good biscuits, IMO.

But, Gil, dadgum it, LOL, that swing is just eat up with ugly. Holy Cornelia! :-)

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 7, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Sorry guys, didn’t mean to start a bruhaha over suggesting Lillibridge could play second base for Atlanta. When I was asked for an assessment of Brent vs Yuni, I was making an observation. Kelly Johnson is a great player and you have to get his bat in the line up. However, Lillibridge is no slouch with a bat and is a much better defensive player than Kelly.

So, what is the answer? What a wonderful conundrum. Too many good players. If only we had that luxury with the pitching corps.

These guys are still young, lots of baseball is in their future. Good for us…..

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

I’m out. GO BRAVES!!!!!!!

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

Anders Thanks for your notice on my tongue-in-cheek comment. As you noticed, it got no “notice” from my other Brave’s fans. They are in a state of denial(isn’t that the slogan on NY license plates? :-])about the “conditioning” of some of our pitching staff.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 7, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

Jersey Gil Actually Hernadez does a good job, much better than most. As for Canizares, I think I have only seen him play once but he reminds me of Randell Simon. Looks a little like Demetri Young of Washington.

By Chop Chop

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

I saw some people mentioning Fenway and Clemens on here, so I figured I’d share this story:

I was living in Massachusetts several years ago and went down to Boston to catch a Yanks-Red Sox game at Fenway back in ‘03. Even though they’d added the Monster seats in the offseason prior to 2003, I think I saw Fenway basically as it was before they added all of the extra stuff there now. I’ll never forget that day as long as I live. A lot of history in that yard.

The game I went to was supposed to be Roger Clemens’ “last” game at Fenway Park (the last time ended up being in the ALCS that season). He was supposed to retire after that year, if you remember. My ticket had me sitting in the right field bleachers behind the visitors’ bullpen. We serenaded Roger in the pen before the game with “RAHHHHHHHHHHHH-JAH! RAHHHHHHHHHHH-JAH!” chants. Things calmed down a little until someone in the bleachers yelled out a short, funny, and terribly obscene one-liner at him as he was warming up. He chuckled a little and went about his business. The jeering and chanting continued throughout the game. It absolutely did not let up. Nothing quite like hearing a packed house speaking as one, is there?

Anyway, Roger went on to pitch into the 7th. Torre came out to get him in that inning and the entire park gave him a deafening standing ovation as he walked off the mound for the “last” time at Fenway. It’s been almost four years since that day and Roger’s back with the Yanks. I don’t know how the schedules shake out, but the Yanks have one series left at the Fens. My guess is that Roger’s reception won’t be as respectful when he walks off the mound.

By BamaBrave

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

I can’t help but laugh when the AT&T ad with Andruw appears on the AJC/Braves homepage…there he is, standing in front of his Aston-Martin. His defense is Aston-Martin like, but his offense this year is more like a Gremlin.

Mo, I’d be lying if I said I knew the full story behind young JS’s ascent up the Braves farm system. It does seem odd, but I’ve never seen him play. I just wonder if he’d be at AAA for the Cardinals, for example.

By Anders

August 7, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

* Gil in Mechanicsville* - I’m a met fan and i agree with Jersey Gil . I think Hernandez is horrible. I loved him as a player but as an announcer he’s unprepared and can be very condescending. When he’s not working the games he rarely even watches them. I understand he has a life but how about TIVO and watch when you can. It is his job! He does have some good in game stuff but it gets lost with all his rambling about his dog and where he’s staying and eating etc.. Ron darling on the other hand is outstanding and I believe will be plucked from SNY by a Network eventually.

By BamaBrave

August 7, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

Great story, Chop Chop…the fans at Fenway are hysterical. I saw a game there in ‘04 with my son, right before they traded Nomar. I wish I could’ve recorded the one-liners. What really cracked me up was the fact that they only sold light beer. I guess you take whatever steps you can - even small ones - to keep the Faithful from going completely bonkers.

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

Anders Is Keith Hernandez worse than Joe Moron? I can’t imagine it! After all, Moron WAS the Big Red Machine, by himself. You mentioned yesterday about him talking about the “greatest leadoff hitters of all time” without even mentioning Pete Rose, who played immediately in front of him. And constantly gave him runner(s) to move over, and to drive in. Moron is just unwilling to acknowledge that he was a cog(an important one)in the “Machine”, he wasn’t the Machine, by himself. And faiing to acknowledge Rose is beneath contempt.

Strong message to follow!

By Gil in Mechanicsville

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

BamaBrave As long as Jonathan is tucked away safely down here in the minors there is no harm done. I think he is like 30 hits away from having 500 in the minors. What he is really doing in learning baseball operations the hard way. All those long bus rides.

By Marty

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

Joe Morgan is such a dumbass that he makes Tim McCarver seem like a sage. ‘Nuff said.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 7, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

Paladin Bravo on that astute observation. Some guys will go out of their way to avoid giving credit to those they don’t like. I sure wish Pete had not made those bets.

By wheelz007

August 7, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

This is not a make or break series, but it is time to start gaining ground on those pesky Mets. We need at least 2 out of 3.

The National League is wide open. Every team in contention has a glaring weakness. The Braves need to get on a winning streak, and make a deep run into the playoffs. Its time for another championship!!!

By David O'Brien

August 7, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

Sorry, folks, massive computer problems have kept me off line for over an hour and burning up my cell minutes talking with tech services folks. Anyway, thankfully Jeff Schultz is here and I’m using his broadband card, since my wireless is fried and so is my broadband card.

JULIO cleared waivers, will go to Rome to play 3-4 games a week, probably will play some at Myrtle too. Just going to Rome because of proximity, makes it easier so he doesn’t have to catch early morning buses and such if he were at Richmond or Mississippi, from what Braves said.

He CAN be on playoff roster, long as he’s activated Sept. 1. Even if he wasn’t activated then (and he will be), he could go as a sub for an injured player on playoff roster.

PRADO is up, DEVINE is down.

They waited to send Devine down today because they wanted Moylan to test his sore back in bullpen today. He threw well, no problems, so Devine got kicked down to Richmond.

By Chase

August 7, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

The MUTS TROLLS have now FOUND THEIR WAY INTO OUR LOCAL SPORTS TALK RADIO as well as OUR BLOG!

Muts troll on 680 the fan just said: “I’m sorry but the mets are a much better second half team than the Braves, they always come through in the clutch, and Willie Randolph is a much better manager than Bobby Cox!”

Big BUCK BELUE has been givin’ him and the MUTS HELL ALL DAY!

The MUTS “more clutch” LOL my sides hurt!

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

I do too, Gil, I do too. But, he was one heck-of-a-baseball player and when/not if Bonds is recognized as Home run King, Rose—warts and all—should be immediately installed in the HOF.

By Chop Chop

August 7, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this

“Anyway, thankfully Jeff Schultz is here…”

DOB, I bet that’s the first time anyone’s ever said that.

By Yars

August 7, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

KJ batting 8th tonight. Thank you Bobby for having faith in KJ & not putting in Woodward.

By Double Deuce

August 7, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

One comment on JS’s son being in the minors. He has no control over who his father is but he undeniably learned the love of the game the way most major league players do, from their fathers. If he never makes it to the majors he has already experienced what a lot of us would love to do, be a professional ballplayer. I think he’s probably been hindered more by being JS’s son rather than helped.

By ArkyTech

August 7, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

Wow, one year away from it and forgot how fun a pennant race is!

Go Braves!

By Efrim

August 7, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this

Lineups:

SS Escobar LF Diaz 3B Jones 1B Teixiera CF Jones RF Francouer C McCann 2B Johnson P Carlyle

Johnson is in the lineup. Hope he steps it up against the tough lefty. 0-5 5K’s. Can’t have that tonight. Not in a big spot like this.

By Colin

August 7, 2007 6:41 PM | Link to this

By Colin

August 7, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

The Lineup (im only guessing) feel free to chime in.

1.Escobar 2.Diaz 3.Chipper 4.Tex 5.Aj 6.Jeff 7.McCann 8.Kelly 9.Buddy

i guess i know what im doin

By Chop Chop

August 7, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

Oh, don’t know if anyone’s mentioned this or not, but Eric Byrnes signed for 3 years and $30 million to stay in Arizona through 2010. That takes one more free agent CF off the market. We’re down to Andruw, Torii, Aaron Rowand and Mike Cameron.

Alright. I’m heading out of here. Kick some a*, Braves!

By Salty

August 7, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

Obviously I don’t…three lefties at the back end of the order…and a free swinger, albeit one who makes contact, hitting second. Oh, well…never claimed to be manager material…just a fan!

By JJMB

August 7, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

Yeah Chase, I’ve been enjoying Buck Belue’s show today. He’s got me fired up for the this series.

BEAT THOSE STINKING MUTS!

By David O'Brien

August 7, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop, good point (kidding Jeff, if you’re reading this … sort of kidding)

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

I guess oliver owns us………. there you go matttttttttttttttttt!!!!!!!!!

By MurphyRules

August 7, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

I think Diaz is just fine in the 2 hole!

By Steve from OH

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

Matt Diaz is a very good hitter.

By op

August 7, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this

MATT DIAZ!!! Thats Die - Azz for you Mets fans…as in “die azzholes!”

By Paladin

August 7, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this

I may be in the minority, but I like Jeff Shultz. He tells it like it is, without “music”. Unfortunately, he isn’t “on” every day.

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

AJ almost made it 2-0…….is this the guy that owns the braves?

By SteelCav

August 7, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

Mets playing T-I-G-H-T. Thanks for the freebie Reyes.

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

I though thT REYES AND WRIGHT were allstars……… they didnt caught an easy fly ball…..good job

By MEB

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

You gotta love how the boys are swinging the bats so far. Lets score a bunch early and force the Muts to spend their bullpen.

GO BRAVES!!!

By Tomahawkin' Again

August 7, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Nicely done Frenchy & B-Mac…Great Start; hitting them where they aint; Now, keep the foot on their throats, they’ll start getting that deer in the headlights look here pretty quick. The Mut fans look very nervous don’t they?

By SteelCav

August 7, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

Mets are HURTING against us as usual. 3-0 BRAVOS!!!!!!!!!

By Superman

August 7, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

I think this team is making a statement right now!

By Overlord

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

who owns who?

By Wayne in Utah

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

Let’s put em away earlier Bravos!

By SteelCav

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

Good inning guys. Perez threw around 40 pitches. And he’s what, 3-0 w/ a 1.something ERA against us until today?? GREAT, GREAT START!!!

By Overlord

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

i dont see our owner pitching into the 6th. 5th only if braves start making dumb at bats……..he is toasted.

Go buddy

By Overlord

August 7, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

Come on guys, we have them where we wanted them…….dont let them go….

UNDER PRESSURE!!!!!!!!!

BUT MUTS……. U R IN 1ST PLACE…..

By Sims, Warner Robins

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

So far, so good folks. Everyone’s looking good!

Let’s go Bravos!

By BreamSlide

August 7, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

I believe I said last night that we’ll score a few runs early on Oliver. This is what we needed for 2 reasons. 1-Make us believe we can hit against this guy.

2-Help settle Carlyle down and pitch his game.

It will also set us up for our 2 ACES.

By Overlord

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

That was an easy 1-2-3. Bravos coming to bat. And the champion has a bleedy nose. Its only the 3rd round, come on champ(m