Braves

By DonCoburleone

August 10, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

NICE!!!

By dack jerrick

August 10, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

The Braves own the Mets and the Mets know it. Remember, the Bravos swept the Phillies to open the season in this same ballpark. This fact is festering inside the minds of the Phillies right now. Oh, the humanity!

By Briana Banks

August 10, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

1st.

By Brooklyn Brawler

August 10, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

First

By Bobby Cocks (I suck in game strategy)

August 10, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

second

By darren in nashville

August 10, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

DOB, why no dotel yesterday?

By bigboi

August 10, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

I’m i first?

By ernesto

August 10, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

How was Cormier down in AAA? Did he seem to regain form?

These series where we have 3 through 5 going scare me. This is how we got swept by the Reds. Chuckie’s got to get us off to a good start tonight.

I wonder who we’d go with in a 3 man rotation? Buddy or Chuck?

And one other thing, are we a better team with Andruw playing or without?

By RC

August 10, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Here’s hoping that we not only take care of business on our end, but the Mets “flipping” of their rotation against the Braves comes back to hurt them when Brian Lawrence gets lit up by the Marlins. If that guy is the answer, I’d like to know the question.

By Patrick

August 10, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Agree with you 100% on the Beckham thing. But who won the Sportscenter most famous athlete contest?? I know that you were following that closely…

Also, any word on the report about Moylan on the radio today talking about Acosta being called up???

By AceF

August 10, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Is it looking like Cormier is coming up?

Maybe Wickman sitting a while will be a blessing in disguise, giving him rest for the stretch run and allowing others to get their legs under them. Why not let Moylan close or set up? I don’t get what a bullpen staff has to have such clearly defined roles anyway, to be honest. Why not let the hot hand (Moylan) close when he’s hot?

And, not that you care, but for what its worth, the Beckham stuff has more to do with that hapless “Who’s Now” crap than any interest in soccer, which is a real shame. I love soccer and wish we could see it more often, even some English Premier League coverage.

By gobirds42

August 10, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

2 of 3 from the syphillies…..and moving closer to the muts, and soon will be the wild card leaders. lets go braves.

By superadam

August 10, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

we heard about hampton the other day, wnay news on Mike Gonzales and how his rehab is going.

By Bamabrave

August 10, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

Should be a good series. Maybe some 15-14 finals with these teams.

For all those bashing Cox for handling the bullpen yesterday, he actually handled it well if you look at the big picture. A four run lead in the ninth should be safe with virtually anyone out of the pen. I imagine he was looking to the fact that we have a three game set with philly with the back end of our rotation which means we will in all likelihood be dipping heavily into the pen for the series. So it made sense not to extend Moylan another inning with a 4 run lead knowing that he will be needed for this next series. Face it, we need some innings from everyone in the pen with starters going 5 or six innings and the occasional meltdown from the back end of the rotation.

By Salty

August 10, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

DO’B offensive slumbers … Interesting combo of words…like sleeping with eyes open?!?

Beckham…I’m a big soccer fan, but…with you on the update…ESPN drools on!

By Bob, Journalist

August 10, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

RJITB, don’t react too negatively to Willie’s comments. Those who belong to the “he who toots his own horn not, the same shall not be tooted” fraternity are usually insecure and/or without substance … my opine is that it is a form of inferiority complex and they proclaim their superiority with increasing fervor as they perceive approaching doom.

I can’t imagine that of Willie but if he perceives that his players may be having inner doubts, I can see such statements as calling them to stay the course … publicly so saying seems more like an ill advised media defense mechanism than anything else.

If you have to tell folks you’re better, then you obviously believe that somebody doesn’t believe it … and you probably have your own inner doubts.

Methinks it’s ill advised as it’s far more likely to inspire your opponents that it is to strike fear into their hearts.

Think about it … when someone on the Blog tells you how good, accomplished, and/or smart they are … or how stupid, inept and/or bad you are … what is your reaction?

My guess is that you assume them to be of little or no substance … that it is a sign of weakness … that they’re a fraud … a joke!

If you take them to task, chances are that they will assert their actions to be part of a gambit … almost proof positive that they are what you thought them to be.

The Mets are no joke but making such proclamations doesn’t speak well for those who make them!

We’d best forget the mets for a while … other that hope that they lose … and concentrate on the task at hand!

We’re all flawed but the Phillies have an excellent team and we had best be ready to play!

Just my opine, simple old soul that I am.

By LT (double A blogger)

August 10, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

As much as I’d like to see the Braves sitting comfortably in first with a 10 game lead, a three team sprint to the finish line sure is entertaining.

I can’t remember being so glued games in August since the early 90s. I couldn’t sleep after that loss on Wednesday night! Now it’s time to bust on Philly!

Lets Go Braves!

By Alan

August 10, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Great stuff as always, DOB. The games this weekend could very well be high-scoring affairs, although Cole Hamels is a tough left-hander. The Braves have stepped up against lefties since Tex’s arrival, but Hamels is really good. We’ve got to hope Chucky keeps the fly balls inside Citizens Bank Bandbox (aptly named) tonight. Saturday’s game (Cormier vs. Eaton) really could be of the football-score variety, something like 17-13. I’d still love to see the Braves pick up a wily old veteran (David Wells? Someone will sign him for sure) and plug him in the rotation at #5. And you’re absolutely right about the closer role without Wickman. If he’s incapacitated for any length of time, things could get dicey - again - in the bullpen. Soriano and Yates have been downright scary lately. What an unbelieveable turnaround for those two! I’m with you - move Moylan to the 9th inning, preceded by Mahay and Dotel. I’m anxious to read your report on Wicky - sure hope he’s OK.

By Ron Roberts

August 10, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Ernesto… anytime you wanna see what a player’s doing in the minors, visit THIS site and do a name search on ‘em.

To answer your question, Lance was groovin’ before we called him up.

By KC

August 10, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts: Thanks for the kind words. My work schedule has finally slowed down enough recently to allow time for the things that are really important! lol

Boy oh Boy… DOB already wondered this aloud, but I’ll second it… How in the WORLD can our bullpen go from looking like the best in baseball when the season started, to completely shaky and uncertain??? WOW.

It’s like Yogi once said… you can sum baseball up in 2 words: “you never know”.

If Wickman goes down, we’ve just got to PRAAAAAAY that Dotel will step up. He hasn’t been particularly impressive so far, but I’m still hoping he’ll settle in.

As for Soriano… I really think it’s time to take him out of the setup role, at least temporarily. Until he can figure out what’s made him go from John Smoltz (the reliever) to Chris Reitsma… we can’t give him the ball in the late innings of close games!

If I’m BC, Peter Moylan is the new setup man for now. It sucks to be at that point, because Moylan is so valuable as a guy that can get you out of a jam in the 6th or 7th inning… but you gotta do what you gotta do. Soriano’s killing us right now.

By Bamabrave

August 10, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Agree on the Beckham hype but also would espn please lighten up on all the homerun rehash. It’s done so please give it a rest.

By Matthew R.S.

August 10, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

DOB: This may be a crazy proposition (just because I don’t know the numbers against righties/lefties) but what do you think the Braves’ interest in David Wells might be? I know he’s been awful of late, but so has everyone else out of the fifth spot in the rotation for the Braves. Would it be worth a shot, throwing him behind Carlyle instead of Cormier/Reyes? The prospect of having a cheap veteran lefty (10-5 in postseason play, by the way) who is only really playing now to get one more chance to get back to the promiseland, has to at least be a little enticing.

By Midnight Earl

August 10, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Who is More Now, David Beckham or the skateboarder that fell 40 feet?

I’m with ya DOB, who cares about a soccer player that doesn’t even play. Even wouldn’t get any pub without Posh on his hip.

By Lee in S. GA

August 10, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

DOB

I am with you on the Beckham fascination also. Give me a break. WHO CARES!!!!

As good ole J.R. would say this series should be an old fashion “slobber knocker”. I expect some tense games and I hope the bullpen comes through for us. It is certainly nice to discuss another team beside the Mets for a change.

By TampaBrave

August 10, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

Put that Jeff Treadway magic on ‘em tonight. Mike Schmidt knows what I’m talkin about.

By KC

August 10, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

DOB: Do you have any idea what’s wrong with Phil Stockman?

That guy has been absolutely SICK down on the farm. No one can hit the guy. He was here briefly last year before getting hurt, and it didn’t take him long to land on the DL this year at Richmond/Miss.

Is he gone for the year, close to returning… any idea?

If he were healthy, that guy could help us TODAY!

By Mets rule. You drool.

August 10, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Prediction - Amazin’s sweep the Guppies. Phils sweep Braves. Its a 2 team race after that. Then when we sweep the Philthy’s in a 4 game series at end of the month - well necks - its all over. Hahahahahahahaha!!!! You can do some math right?

And you still have to face us 6 more times this year AND your LUCK is about to run out - you saw it at the end of the game. (we may even take the season series, wouldnt that be Amazin’?) Hahahahahaha!!!!

Have fun getting shelled tonight. Ill be back tonight to follow up- but remember - I predicted it!!!!!!!!

By Chop Chop

August 10, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

DOB, the reasons why ESPN makes a big deal out of Beckham’s 21 minutes are two-fold:

1) He’s a bigger star around the world than any (or almost any) American athlete and was making his MLS debut in a regular season game.

2) ESPN is all about the entertainment side of sports and Beckham is right up their alley.

Other than that, it was just a guy playing 21 minutes as a substitute in the second half of a regular season game in what is considered a niche sport in the U.S. That basically means that very few people really care about it, but ESPN also gave us “Who’s NOW?” and “A Season on the Brink”. They don’t care what you think.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 10, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

By David O’Brien

August 10, 2007 9:15 AM | Link to this

Mets started out 32-17. They’re 32-33 since then.

Whew, that’s some unstoppable force. Don’t see how the Braves or Phillies can even dream of catching that runaway train…………..Well , that’s a pretty good argument on your part O’Brien. You just left out the other side of the argument. The Braves started out 28-21 and have went 33-33 since. The Mets have a bullpen , we don’t. Your math doesn’t look so good anymore , now does it ?

By Jay Dub

August 10, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

Mr. DOB,

I’m agree Moylan needs a larger role, but I still don’t like him for closer. The issue I have isn’t the numbers (which as you pointed out are spectacular) but is actually you’re other note,

“Not a ton of strikeouts, but that’s not what he relies on most of the time. He gets loads of groundouts.”

Allowing guys to make lots of contact in the 9th is a recipe for disaster. We saw that with Dan Kolb. I’m not a Kolb basher. As a matter of fact, many of his blow-ups started with slow rollers to short, seeing eye singles through the right side hole, etc.

Maybe everyone’s nerves are up in the 9th … and therefore a groundball pitcher requiring all the infielder’s participation isn’t always a good thing.

The Soriano of April/May is the prototypical closer in my opinion. I wish we still had him. Without that hard-throwing strikeout guy, we don’t have a lot of good closer options.

By ernesto

August 10, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the effort Ron, unfortunately it didn’t link to anything (missing page). Appreciate the gesture though.

Glad to hear Lance was doing well…maybe we’ll get a second win from the 5th spot this year.

By JD

August 10, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Beckham sucks and his wife has the fakest hooters in the history of the planet.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 10, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

TheSouthernJackAss will now be the ‘class act’ on this new blog…and refrain from replying to the deplorable and malicious jabs and attacks from that troublemaker bayou ron roberts…who is fruitlessly assaying to belittle TheJackAss, and to lure TheJackAss into a verbal joust of which TheJackAss is sure to win…but in so doing…envious bayou ron hopes to entice TheJackAss into making certain unseemly comments containing key words that could possibly earn TheJackAss banishment from the MIB blog…thus solving bayou ron’s Brobdingnagian conundrum…

bayou ron is well aware of how to contact TheJackAss if bayou ron really wants to man up, as bayou ron has eluded to on numerous other occasions…as everyone else is well aware…so, out of respect to DOB, and to other bloggers, that is all TheJackAss has to say “directly to” bayou ron…

By ernesto

August 10, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

That ESPN “who’s more now?” could be the lamest thing on televison today.

And there is some awfully lame stuff on tv these days.

By Alan

August 10, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Dack Jerrick, just a reminder that the Phillies returned the favor (3-game sweep) last time the teams met in Atlanta. And at the time, Ryan Howard was relatively quiet while Pat Burrell was relatively comatose. They’re not quaking in their boots, believe me. They’re a very confident club right now, and their ace is on the mound tonight. Look again at the numbers at the top of DOB’s blog. The Phillies are for real - just like the Braves.

By Matthew R.S.

August 10, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Man, Wells still has to serve a seven-game suspension this year too, I see. Damn that team that instigated Wells’ arguing.

Oh, wait.

Still, if you can’t get another starter and Cormier does nothing tomorrow, it might not be a bad idea. Might, is the operative word.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

Well, here we are in good old Fil-a-delph-phi-a, the birthplace of our nation. With no appreciable change, there-after.

Now, on to the park that is more fitting for motor-cross than it is for baseball.

BRAVOS, START YOUR ENGINES!!!

By KC

August 10, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

The more I think about it… Moylan should close if Wickman can’t.

My first inclination was to give Dotel a shot at the job first if Wickman goes down, because (obviously) he’s already been closing all season long.

But Moylan’s been our best reliever this year, and you want your best reliever at the far back of the pen if you can.

Also, we’re going to need a closer next season, since plan-A (Mike Gonzalez) obviously isn’t going to be the guy on opening day. The only way to know before next season how Moylan would do, is the start closing him now.

Now of course, if Wickman’s healthy enough, and can remain reasonably effective… you don’t mess with the 9th inning. But if worst comes to worst with Wicky… I now think Moylan’s gotta be the guy.

By NO CHOP ZONE

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

I don’t ever want to hear that the great NCZ doesn’t visit after a tough Mets loss. But admit it, You guys were real nervous after Wright hit that three run homer. Anyway, we’ll just move on and win four or five of the next six and we’ll back in business. I know all you brave fans are giddy but the Mets are still in first. The one thing I’ve noticed is that the energy level of the braves is higher than that of the Mets. I beleive Cox and JS have real anomisties toward NY and have that team all jacked up whenever they play each other……We’ll just keep the focus on the big picture.

By Braveheart

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

In the starts not made by the Braves top 4 starters, the craptastic starting pitchers have pitched 147.3 innings in 32 starts and given up 123 earned runs for a 7.51 ERA. They only average 4.61 innings per each of their crappy starts. In the starts not made by the Mets top 4 starters, their craptastic starting pitchers have pitched 150.3 innings, given up 104 earned runs, in 28 starts, have a 6.23 ERA and have averaged 5.36 innings per start.

The fact that the Mets have averaged 5.36 innings per start for their crappy starters has saved alot of grief and wear and tear on their bullpen. That 4.6 innings per start for the Braves’ crappy starters has just gradually killed the Braves pen which was outstanding for the longest time in the beginning of the season.

Yates and Soriano were lights out for a long time this season until the wear and tear caused by the craptastic ones took their toll. For example, Soriano never caused a loss during the first 3 months of the season but has caused 6 losses since July 1st. Overuse and overexposure

AS comparison, the Braves top 4 starters have pitched 505.7 innings in 83 starts, given up 194 earned runs, for a 3.45 ERA, with 6.1 innings per start. The Mets top 4 starters have pitched 527.3 innings in 86 starts, given up 210 earned runs for a 3.58 ERA and 6.1 innings per start. Although the BRaves and Mets are pretty much averaging the same number of innings per start from their top 4 starters, they have each gone about it differently. The Braves are more top heavy. Hudson has averaged 6.6 innings per start, Smoltz 6.4, Buddy 5.8, James 5.5. The Mets top 4 have all averaged over 6 innings per start, with Glavine at 6, Maine at 6.1, Perez at 6.25, Duque at 6.21.

Hudson spares the pen the most. It seems more preferable to have the Mets starters all average 6 innings per start in order to spare the pen at least 4 days a week - even more so when the crappy fifths are averaging over 5 starts a start, which means their pen is saved from wear and tear all week long. But with the Braves, you have Smoltz and Hudson sparing the pen two days a week but then have Buddy, Chuck, and the horrible fifths terribly straining the pen the other 3 starts a week.

The lack of innings from Chuck James would be more forgivable if the craptastic fifths were at least averaging 5 innings a start like the Mets starters do.

By biffpocoroba

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

Brandon Jones is the shizy

By RedEyedAndBlue

August 10, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

Manny Acosta is the closer for the Richmond Braves and has been lights-out all season. 26 year-old Panamanian righthander, 6’4”, 175 lbs., 9-3 record, Low 2 ERA. 12 saves. Was previously a Yankees farmhand.

By Bobby Cox

August 10, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

What is the point of all the complete idiots on here who have to type “first” into all the early posts. No one cares who is first and it is really annoying.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

On the closer debate: I think we missed our chance when we were in the Jersey area not to pick up Tony Soprano as our closer. Now, that guy mows ‘em down!

By Ron Roberts

August 10, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

I agree with you KC. Dotel’s not only not getting guys out like a closer, since coming over; he’s also missing badly with his location.

Moylan has been consistent. He’s the only guy, aside from Villareal, who’s been consistent, frankly, aside from Chad Paronto, but he, of course, is in Richmond.

By NO CHOP ZONE

August 10, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

I know there’s no one here that will agree with me but I’ll throw this out there anyway…..The Mets are a 6 or 7 game winning streak from owning the NL East. I hope your not too giddy from yesterday’s win to think it isn’t. But seperate yourself from your bias for a second and think about it.

By Chris

August 10, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

I think we’d have to go with Buddy in a 3-man rotation. Just don’t get many good innings out of Chuck.

As for Andruw, I think we’d be a better team with him on the bench and Willie and Diaz playing every game.

By Shaun

August 10, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

DOB,

One thing to consider about the Phillies offense is context. Citizen’s Bank is a hitter’s park. By my count the Phillies have only played seven games in pitcher’s parks (San Diego and LA) since the break and three more in a neutral park (Milwaukee). The rest have been at home.

Arizona is the only hitter’s park the Braves have played in since the break.

Not saying the Phillies offense isn’t good but within the context of the ballparks in which they’ve played, the Braves offense is probably more impressive since the break.

By Real Footballer

August 10, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Soccer = Communist Kickball

Need a big series win this weekend. War Damn Braves!

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Istarted to say, “To hell with Soriano, let’s bring on Soprano”: but some people require a “visual”.

By Marc

August 10, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Finally, Peter Moylan is getting the attention he deserves. He’s been all to effective and entirely underrated by everyone. He’s a rookie, too, and I think he deserves serious consideration for the ROTY vote.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

No Chop Zone,

Dude, I bet the Braves would have been nervous if David Wright had hit a three run homer…especially since there was only one guy on bench. Are you really as stupid as you appear on this blog? But did you see the expressions on the faces of your Mets when Willy made that catch???? Now that was visible. You guys got lucky and salvaged one game but you had better pray big time that this team doesn’t get into the playoffs, because you are in BIG TROUBLE if they do.

Again NCZ, one runner on base and a home run equals 2 runs, not 3. Not even in a place called Flushing.

By h_charles

August 10, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

Moylan is the knee-jerk response if Wickman falters, but Dotel is the wise option. Closing is a different world. It can humble the greatest of arms (Lidge, Donnie Moore, etc.). It takes a rare kind of person to thrive there. Dotel has done it and shown he can. The LAST thing we can afford is to have Moylan lose confidence with a blown game, a’la our last promising sidearmern, Joey D. In today’s game the 8th is just as important (but without the pressure). Moylan needs to take that rode from “batting practice” Soriano until that guy can figure out that fastball down the middle is not the ideal spot to be throwing flat fastballs. Let Soriano, and Mahay alternate in the 8th and pray we don’t have to use Yates.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 10, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

KC , Phil Stockman has on and off the DL all season , He was demoted down to AA Mississippi. He has basically been hurt the vast majority of the season which is why he has just 18 innings pitched all year.

By NCBravesFan

August 10, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

NCZ Good point, but so are we. :)

By Chris

August 10, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

KC You are a moron. Just a couple of weeks ago you were calling Dotel a “lights-out” closer while I explained to you that he wasn’t. Now you’re saying you don’t want him to close for us. So which one is it?

By Marcus

August 10, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

the bull pen is worrying me. I don’t know what the avg. is across the majors, but we are 30/43 in saves for a 69% rate. It is much better than last year (I thinkwe had 29 blown saves) but we gotta plug that hole, esp. since the bats seem to be coming around (in general). We have to hold a lead. Huddy has gotten stiffed for a ‘W’ at least 3-4 times by our bullpen and almost got jacked yesterday, were it not for that 9th inninn, HR saving, over-the-wall grab by Willie.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

August 10, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

DOB with a lyric-free edition of the MIB/Braves Blog. Also, who’s David Beckham???

By David-ATL14

August 10, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Somone earlier asked about Stockman, he’s pitching sparingly in AA(Mississippi) injured most of the season but is now off the DL and pitching in Pearl.

Hasn’t progressed yet to working on back to back nights.Highly doubtful you will see him in ATL at all this season.

Word seems to have leaked that Acosta has been called up. Any update on this DOB?

By Braveheart

August 10, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

No Chop, the Mets are a 7 game winning streak from owning the division, huh? What if the Braves go 6-1 during that stretch? What if the Braves go on a 7 game winning streak and the Mets lose 7 games in a row, then the Braves are owning the division right?

By Lee in S. GA

August 10, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

All we need now is for the “Philly Fanatic” to show up on here. He and the “Mets drool fool” and “Chop less Zone” will all have something in common. Their respective teams losing series against the Braves.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

August 10, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

I was kidding about the Beckham thing. Has Sunday’s Game been changed to ESPN’s Sunday Nighter?

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Anders He seems like the biggest jerk in the world.

Efrim My friend Anders is not the biggest jerk in the world. There is…. And….. And….:-)

Seriously, you would pick Anders over NCZ? I think you will find yourself in a distinct minority.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 10, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

So DOB—is it still permissible to make disparaging remarks about one’s mother on your blog??…as did ron roberts to my mother on the previous blog…which has also earned ron roberts a visit from TheJackAss???…

If something isn’t done about it…all hell will soon be unleashed here like never before!…

I hope all you do-gooders noticed just how low that scumbag SON OF A B!ITCH has stooped!!!…

By Shaun

August 10, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

Not trying to knock Ryan Howard, he’s certainly a great player, but we must consider who he’s hit behind most often this season.

Rollins - .337 OBP

Victorino - .351 OBP

Utley - .414 OBP

Rowand - .388 OBP

The best part about Howard isn’t necessarily his RBI total. It’s that he’s hitting .271/.399/.595. You put that kind of hitter behind two or three of the hitters above and you are going to see him rack up the RBI. Which is great for Phillies fans.

Chase Utley has actually been about as impressive as Howard. His OPS adjusted for league and ballpark is 55 percent better than the league average while Howard’s is 54 percent better.

By TexasBrave

August 10, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Braveheart - Great analysis of why we have bullpen problems this year. The pen was good, but we just rode that horse too hard.

By Anders

August 10, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Paladin Thanks for the defense but Efrim wasn’t talking about me. We were discussing that moron Mike Fransesca on WFAN radio in NY.

By Ron Roberts

August 10, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Arkansas Hillbilly… Dunno how long its been that way, but far as I knew, the ATL/PHI game Sunday has been on the ESPN docket awhile now.

By Mets rule. You drool.

August 10, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

That NoChop Zone guy is right, if the Amazin’s sweep the Marlins this weekend (probable) and you don’t have Smotzl or Crudson you could easily get swept by Philadelphia…so thats 6.5 back in just 3 days.

For you GED rejects who dont get the math - we ARE 3.5 GAMES UP! If we go on a good streak that could jump to 7-10 quicker than you can say ‘World Series Chokers.” HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 10, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

No Chop Zone, seperate yourself from YOUR own bias. The Mets are by no means a six or seven game winning streak from “owning the division”. Such a streak would only do that if both the Braves and Phillies go on a similar losing streak at the same time. Do you really think that will happen? Your team is a .500 team over their last 65 games. That isn’t a slump. That’s a way of life. Can’t blame it on not having Beltran because he has only missed 10 or so games. Can’t blame it on no Pedro because he wasn’t there when you began the season 32-17. Not intrested in listening to excuses. Not saying your making any but some of your fellow fans and your team’s manager are.

I didn’t hear any sympathy last year when the Braves only had two of its opening day starting pitchers still in the rotation when the Mets swept through here last July. I heard no sympathy when the Braves had more relievers on the DL than there are “auto body shops” around Shea Stadium. Didn’t hear any sympathy when Chipper, Giles, and McCann were all hurting last year. And, most of the people on this blog didn’t allow it to be an excuse. Most of us still believe with all that being true this team was underachieving.

Fact is this Mets team isn’t as good as they fancy themselves to be. Numbers don’t lie. The Mets are just like the Braves and Phillies. All three are teams that have not played as well as they could. And, that is why the Braves or Phillies have just as good a chance to win the division.

And, I’ll say this. If the Braves lose this division by four games or less the Mets should personally thank Bud Selig because without interleague play it would not be the case. And before you start any crap, anybody with good sense acknowledges the Braves had the hardest interleague schedule by far.

By Del

August 10, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

I wonder if BC aver looks at HIS pitcher’s stats? Seems to me he makes his bullpen selections based on emotion or what their roles are SUPPOSED to be. Heaven forbid that he should ever use the “Hot hand” method in his selection process. He operates the same way with Dru. I know one thing —- he is one very stubborn manager. I just hope that his stubborness doen’t cost us a playoff spot!!! Seems like the deeper we get into the season the more he digs his heels in.

By NO CHOP ZONE

August 10, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Braveheart…..The Mets have a 3 game lead right now. That’s the only reason I said that. If both teams were even then that’s not the case. As for Bob and the stupid reference. Can’t you refer to me without the insults. I don’t recall making any toward you.

By TampaBrave

August 10, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Don’t necesarily think Moylan is a knee jerk reaction. He has shown pretty good consistency over a period of time. Some people have it and some don’t. We will not know until we try.

By BamaBrave

August 10, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

But wait a minute, NCZ… If the Nationals win all of their remaining games, they’d go 100-62. Now separate yourself from your bias for a second, and I think you’ll admit that that’s plenty good enough to win the East outright.

By Ron Roberts

August 10, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Now who’s whining to the AJC.com staff?

By Anders

August 10, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

125th!!! Sorry was that a faux pas?

By MGL

August 10, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

There is a 26 year old Cuban Defector at Richmond, Canizares. Has played in 28 games there. Against righties, 64 AB .375 AVG, .431 OBP, .500 SLG. However against lefties, 23 AB, .522 AVG, .526 OBP, and .870 SLG.

Maybe we should have squeezed him in the lineup against Hamels.

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Dob This seems like an opportune time to bring Jose Ascanio back up.He’s having a good year and did a very good job in his 5 games with Atl.Mostly though I just think he looks ready to contribute.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

RROE Stay the frick out of squabbles between regulars PARTICULARLY when one of the “participants” is SJA!

NOTE Before one of you wadders jump me: I didn’t make that rule. I am only repeating it!

By David O'Brien

August 10, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Darren, Bobby rested Soriano and Dotel yesterday. I was just reminded (by Bowman) than I actually asked Bobby after the game about Soriano not pitching, and that he said both him and Dotel were getting the day to rest.

Anyway, I forgot that earlier when someone asked about why Dotel didn’t pitch. He pitched three straight games, so I guess Cox wanted to rest him two in a row….

As for Cormier, yes, he pitched well in his starts after the break at Richmond. Told me yesterday that getting six days completely away from the game, with his family, kind of cleared his mind and that when he got back, he pitched much better. Hey, that’s what he said.

By monty

August 10, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

I happen to agree with what Joe Simpson said,the other day. You go with your “hot-hand” in the bullpen. In other words not by a prescibed philosophy of so-in-so in the 7th, this guy in the 8th, and Joe Blow in the 9th. What if Joe Blow has had 2 blown saves in a row? OR your set up man has lost confidence? If you were pinch hitting you wouldn’t or (I believe) shouldn’t just go with a designated guy. But whoever on your bench has been stroking the ball lately. Your designated guy could be 0 for his last 7 at bats. Roll with your hot hand. If that doesn’t work, you just got beat, but when you get beat and your hot-hand is still sitting on the bench, you have to second guess yourself. Right now, maybe not next week, but right now Moylan is HOT!

By Chase

August 10, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

NCZ and MUTS TOOL!

What’s wrong? You guys have to LICK YOUR WOUNDS for 24 HOURS BEFORE CRAWLING BACK HERE TO SPEW YOUR RIDICULOUS NONSENSE?

You guys were A FLY BALL AWAY FROM GETTING SWEPT!!!! You should be thankful to escape with one win!

The Braves are not gonna Lose 7 in a row so if the MUTS do go on a winning streak they couldn’t “own the division”

You guys have to come on here and LASH OUT and ATTACK to compensate for your INSECURITIES and INFERIORITY COMPLEX towards the Braves!

But hey, if you guys need to do that to get through your day… go ahead..

PATHETIC

By Efrim

August 10, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

Paladin

Easy bro. Talking about Francesa.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

August 10, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

I have a printed schedule in my office that I go by. It had the game on TBS, but I thought I heard a commercial saying it was on ESPN.

By Braveheart

August 10, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

The average pen has given up 22 stolen bases.

The Braves have given up an astounding 36 - no one is even close.

The caught stealing percentage is only 18% compared to 25% league average.

Very strange because when the starters are pitching, the Braves have only given up 36 stolen bases (3rd lowest in the NL) and the caught stealing % is 33% (4th highest in NL) as compared to the league average of 27.

Very strange that the relievers have given up as many stolen bases as the starters in almost 270 less innings.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

No Chop,

Its just that you and the Drooler are target rich environment. I retract my stupid comment though. Just deficient in math.

By Johannes

August 10, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

How did Josh Beckham get into this country? Who cares about soccer anyway!

DOB, what are Dotels numbers as a closer over the years. I heard he was not godd as a closer. So they shouldn’t use him as one.

What’s the word on Wickie?

GO BRAVES!

By NO CHOP ZONE

August 10, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

Robert, The Mets played every playoff team from 2006. So I cCan’t agree that the braves had the hardest interleague schedule. But to be honest with you my visit to the blog today was to show that I would still be here even after a tuff Mets loss. I’ve already been called stupid by BOB so I hope I don’t regret it. And as I told Robert(JISB), I only predicted the 6 or 7 winning streak is because the Mets are still up three. Lastly, I am well aware that the Mets have not played their best ball in over 2 months and the braves have won every series head to head, But what does that say about the braves and phillies when the Mets are still in first by three games? That just my point when I say the Mets are a good winning streak from closing out this race. I wasn’t trying to start any sh-it with that comment…

By AthensBrave

August 10, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Good Friday Gentleman,

Throughout the season, I’ve read/heard comments about how folks think Andruw will heat up.

Its August 10th, and its the same inconsistent Andruw out there.

Do ya’ll ever see him heating up or is this what we’re stuck w/? Can ya’ll imagine our lineup if he returned to form?

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 10, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Roberts all was just in good fun until you made that remark about my mother…now you’ll get your visit…that’s all I have to say to you here…ever…

DOB—are profane remarks about one’s mother, like those made by ron roberts on your previous blog, going to be permitted now?

If the rest of you gutless wonders want to put up with that puke…have at it…

By Chase

August 10, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

HEY MUTS TOOL!

Your last post was that of a typical sad MUTS fan…

You all always want to say “oh the Braves are WS chokers” or “how many WS did they win”

That is a pathetic crutch for a LOSER FRANCHISE and its LOSER FANS!

You wanna know how many WS the Braves have won in the past 18 years… ONE MORE THAN YOU!

Typical MUTS LOSER… Win one Division Title in 18 years and Bragg and talk trash like you’re somebody!

I’ve said it before…

ONLY A LOSER BRAGGS or TALKS TRASH WHEN HIS TEAM HAS WON ONCE in 18 YEARS!

And that was just a Division Title.. You didn’t even make it to the WS!

JUST SAD REALLY

By Braveheart

August 10, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

The average NL team has 28 saves, the Braves have 30. The average bullpen ERA is 3.98. The Braves have a 3.80.

The average bullpen has thrown 357 innings, the Braves have thrown 383. The average save % in the NL is 67%. The braves are at 70%.

The average pen has given up 35 bombs. The Braves have given up 32. The average team has 14 blown saves. The Braves have 13.

The average OPS against is .721. The braves OPS against for relievers is .700 - the Mets relievers have a .698 OPS against.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

DOB I was looking in my Thesaurus(an old one, I admit)and under “key” it listed—near the bottom—“possibly pivotal”. I’m glad we have reached near agreement, for a change.

Speaking of change: Don’t take any wooden nickels. Philly is probably the *only place they would have them.

By David O'Brien

August 10, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Strong indications that Acosta is indeed up, but Braves PR guy not here yet and clubhouse isn’t open. If he is, it probably means either Yates or Wickman is DL’d. But I’ll let you know soon.

Acosta’s had good numbers most of the season, but hasn’t pitched as well in past five weeks or so, from what I understand. All I remember is he had that horrendous eight- or nine-run inning in spring training.

By Anders

August 10, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

Arkansas Hillbilly Braves are the ESPN game Sunday night.

By Chop Chop

August 10, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

The SJA/Ron Roberts stuff is entertaining and it kinda involves sports. I do believe ESPN’s Stu Scott, comedic legend Kevin James and Hollywood starlet Jessica Biel should be on this case.

By NO CHOP ZONE

August 10, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

Thanx Chase you just made me realize that it doesn’t pay to be a stand up guy and visit the blog after a Mets loss. As I was posting I was thinking that I would earn some respect from the brave fans but I guess I was wrong……C’YA!! Oh yeah I almost forgot, FU—CK YOU and LETS GO METS!!!!!!!

By Pete

August 10, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

I have to agree with the earlier post that ESPN’s “Who’s Now” segments on Sportscenter are the BIGGEST WASTE OF TIME!

By Stephen

August 10, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

David, Are the Braves interested in Fernando Cabrera? Young Free Agent with a nice up-side… why not take a chance? Couldn’t do any worse than Soriano’s done lately…

By Jess

August 10, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Why call up Acosta when Ascanio already looked good this year? Even Devine looked pretty good.

The Mets & Bravesa have both been average since their good starts. I still say the bullpen is hurting us more than the rotation. We have lost way to amny games when having a lead after 7.

Losing 1 game to a good Mets team isn’t the end of the world. But it’s the way we lost it that’s so bad. Add the Houston game that we blew a late 4 run lead & that’s 2 recent games we should have won if our bullpen didn’t poop it’s self!! That’s not even count amny more.

By Renegator

August 10, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

NCZ:

How many 6 or 7 game winning streaks have the Mets had this year?

I’ll give you hint - starts with a “z” and ends in an “ero”.

Don’t worry - we aren’t worried about the Mets going on a 6 or 7 game wining streak. It ain’t gonna happen, bro.

By Arkansas Braves fan

August 10, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

Mets Reek you Geek: Will you please let is know when the ball Chipper(your daddy)hit lands.

By Chase

August 10, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

NCZ…

YOU DON’T GET CREDIT FOR “coming on after a tough loss” WHEN IT HAS BEEN OVER 24 HOURS AFTER THE GAME!

Its amazing how you MUTS guys find your way on here IMMEDIATLEY AFTER a MUTS win/ Braves Loss… But it takes a while for you to crawl back after your team goes down!

By KC

August 10, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

We’ve got to get the late-inning situation settled, but as far as our middle relief is concerned… there’s help on the way.

Here are some AA/AAA relievers that may provide a boost for this club in September:

Chad Paronto Through June and July (in ATL), Paronto pitched 24.2 innings, and posted a 1.09 ERA, with fewer hits than innings pitched and no HRs allowed.** He was actually pitching pretty well when he was sent down to make room for Dotel.

Royce Ring At AAA: 2.45 ERA, 49 K’s in 36 innings, and a .195 opposing avg. At San Diego: 15 innings, 11 hits, 3.60 ERA.** He’ll give us another lefty in the pen, which of course is why we went out and got him.

Jose Ascanio – At AA: 2.58 ERA, and only 1 homerun allowed in 73 innings at AA. At Atlanta: 7 innings, 8 strikeouts, 1 ER.**

Joey Devine: 44.1 innings, 63 strikeouts, 1.83 ERA, .197 opposing avg. at AA/AAA this year. Also looked good in handful of outings with ATL. Maybe he’s finally ready for primetime… don’t know. One thing’s for sure… AAA hitters sure as hell can’t touch him.

Tanyon Sturtze: Maybe, maybe not. He’s making rehab starts, but no way to know if he’ll be healthy/sharp enough to help next month.

* We’ll soon have plenty of depth in our middle relief. But you’ve GOT to have your close situation in hand going down the stretch. Moylan’s our best reliever right now. If Wickman can’t go, give him a crack at the job.*

And maybe that kind of depth will allow us to rest Soriano and Yates more. I don’t know if being over-worked is responsible for their 180’s from June to July/August… but a little more rest certainly can’t hurt.

By DonCoburleone

August 10, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

I’m pulling for Cormier. I mean, that 1.6 ERA in Spring Training wasn’t a total mirage was it? There has to be something there and hopefully he can put it together for the stretch run…

And as far as a closer if Wickman is out, it’s gotta be Dotel. Moylan is far too valuable as a guy in the middle innings who can get out of a jam and pitch an inning and two-thirds or 2 full innings in a must-win game… I’d rather have him come in with a 6-5 Braves lead in the 6th inning and pitch the 6th & 7th. It gives our offense a chance to ADD ON TO A LEAD, instead of having to play catch-up because whoever pitched the 6th allowed 3 runs… Dotel closes, Moylan stays in his role and Soriano stays the setup man (and throws something other than fastballs on every pitch!!!!)

By Shaun

August 10, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

Relief pitchers generally don’t worry about steals that much. Also, a lot of times teams will just let the runner on first go in late innings because that run doesn’t mean anything.

Also 18 percent and 25 percent isn’t that big a difference when your only talking about 29-44 attempts.

My guess is there are a higher percentage of attempts to steal against most relievers than starters. And the reason the attempts are so high vs. the Braves are because their bullpen has logged so many innings.

Also, they are a good offensive team so maybe relievers are in more often than other teams when the game is not on the line and they are willing to give up the base.

I don’t know for sure. We’d have to dig a little deeper. But I wouldn’t read too much into those stolen base numbers.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

My bad, Efrim. When you get to my age you miss some things. Like your keys, your eye glasses, your truck. Oh, and the toilet seat.

By Chase

August 10, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

NCZ..

I’ll say it again… If you want credit for coming on after a LOSS.. Come on at least the day of that loss… NOT sometime the next afternoon!

I bet if the Braves had lost You’d have found your way on the Blog INSTANTLY!

Also it is Widely Known and Well-Publicized that the BRAVES HAD THE TOUGHEST IL SCHEDULE IN THE MAJORS!

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 10, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

Nuff said…

By Colin

August 10, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

**WHOS MORE NOW THAN WILLIE HARRIS….HE WAS ON BASEBAALL TONIGHT, WHO WAS THE LAST BRAVE TO BE ON BASEBALL TONIGHT TALKING….!!!

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

h-Charles I share your concern about tinkering with Moylan’s roll,the options are limited however.While Dotel has experience he has blown quite a few this season and hasn’t been dependable for years.Moylan looked relaxed in saving the first game of the Mets series.Still the anxiety about how he’ll respond if he blows one won’t go away.Think about the term blown save you didn’t just lose fella,the ball didn’t take an unfortunate bounce,no you BLEW IT !!and we’re keeping score.

By KC

August 10, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

DOB just mentioned Acosta… I didn’t list him as a September call-up, but he’s another guy that might be able to help.

Chris:* “As for Andruw, I think we’d be a better team with him on the bench and Willie and Diaz playing every game.”

You may get your wish next season.

I’m as big a Willie Harris supporter as there is, and even I’m not ready to hand him the CF job next year. BUT, if he keeps playing like this, and puts some more good swings on lefties like he did last night…

By Ron Roberts

August 10, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

SJA… you can’t have it both ways. You wanna spew bile, then wear your slickers, ‘cause it’ll splash back on ya. Count on it.

Just funny seein’ you whining. I picture you with a freshly minted black eye, burying your face in DO’B’s apron (or is it UNDER?).

Back to baseball…

Why would the Braves call up a minor league bullpen arm who’s struggled the last five weeks? I can see where a change of scenery sometimes rights a ship, but this is ridiculous!

On Devine; see, one of the reasons I suggested (and was chided for) that the Braves offer up Devine as a trade piece was because it seemed beyond evident that Bobby Cox had no interest in using him in a meaningful way, again. Maybe that’s not the case, but if it is, it’s out of character. Any manager who’d hold a grudge on a pitcher, who in his first appearances in the bigs, coughs up grand slams, and in meaningful games, should also hold a grudge on whatever manager let him pitch either in or into those situations and kept ‘em out there to begin with.

By NCBravesFan

August 10, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

Who did Paronto p** off, to still be in Richmond? Seems like he would be on the short list to come up.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

That’s funny, NCZ thinking he would earn respect from Braves fans.

By KC

August 10, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

I really hadn’t thought about it much until today, but…

The expanded rosters in September could be a big factor in this NL East race.

Bottom line is, we need that bullpen depth right now a lot worse than the Mets do. So simply put, it will likely help us more than it will help NY.

And as I pointed out a few minutes ago, we’ve got 5 or 6 guys down there who really could potentially help this club a great deal down the stretch.

By Mets rule. You drool.

August 10, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

Waste, I mean, Chase, nice spelling neck! Bragg? is that supposed to mean brag? Hahahahhaha!!!! Nice 3rd rate education you got down there. Idiot.

By Renegator

August 10, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

Colin:

Smoltz was interviewed last Sunday on baseball tonight about his reaction to Glavine’s 300th.

By Braveheart

August 10, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

Shaun, good points in your 4:07. More digging is needed for sure. Was not sure what they meant or if they are of any consequence at all. Just throwing it out there for consideration.

By Fred from CT

August 10, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

efrim I agree with you about WFAN it is the best sports talk radio

By David O'Brien

August 10, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN: Wick’s flight was cancelled last night, so they set up an appointment at an MRI place in Philly this afternoon. That’s where he is right now, and we probably won’t get a report until around game time at the earliest.

ACOSTA is here, but not active yet. Could replace Wick if Wick needs to go on DL, or could send someone like Prado down to add an arm if Wickman’s not going to need to go on DL.

Let you know when I know

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 10, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

KC , you can take notice that during all the horse trading the Braves just did , not a single outfielder was traded. Read between the lines my friend , read between the lines.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

August 10, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

When in a crowd of campers being chased by an angry bear, you don’t have to be fastest runner in the group, only faster than the one who is slowest.

Winning the devision would be nice but if the Braves can get in the dance this year, I like their chances a lot more now than a month ago.

Coles Hammels is a tough cookie, The other guys, not so much.

Now minor league baseball….. Thanks Jersey Gill for alerting me to Barbaro. The guy is tearing it up in triple A. He has like 5 multiple hit games in a row. I look for him to go up in September as a bench guy. Another Cuban who has talent.

By 96,sc

August 10, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

I thought Azcanio did a good job when he was brought up. Thought he might get another shot

By chuck w/deadjournalist.com

August 10, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Anyone have any infomation on why Buddy Hernandez has yet to get a look? I know he was hurt most (if not all) oflast year, but if memory serves me, he’s put up strong numbers at AAA for several years but has never been added to the 40-man roster. Is he another Billy Taylor type that the Braves didn’t bring up but had success in his 30’s as a reliever in the majors?

By Anders

August 10, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Steals against starters versus relievers. That’s one I’ve never seen. Excellent stat. Not sure what is causing it but definetly interesting. Where did you get it?

By Voice of Reason

August 10, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

NCZ: If the Mets could put together a nice 6-7 game win streak, they could pull away; and if the Braves could put together a nice 6-7 game win streak, they could move into 1st. And if my aunt had balls, she’d be my uncle. What’s your point?

By Mets rule. You drool.

August 10, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

See ya tonight Necks! Remember METS SWEEP. PHILS SWEEP. I CALLED IT!!!!!!!!!

By Hoosier Aaron

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

It’s London to a brick that the Bloke’s been a ripper reliever!

Bobby needs to let Huddy & Smoltie go a little deeper than six innings. We’re using at least three relief pitchers in games when the starter gives up one run through six. 100 pitches might be enough for Buddy & Chucky but the other two should be able to go 115 or so…I’d think.

By Renegator

August 10, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

DOB

Somebody earlier was saying that is was stupid that Wickman was flying to Atlanta for the MRI when he could have one in NY or Philly.

Looks like he was right.

By Tonight on TBS

August 10, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

After the game…

Moylan Rouge (2001)

A young relief pitcher, Peter Moylan (Ewan McGregor) arrives from abroad and struggles to save the love of his life: a terminally-afflicted bullpen. With Willie Harris as Toulouse-Lautrec. (Musical).

By Chase

August 10, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

MUTS DROOL..

Typical MUT! You are defeated, beaten, your arguement is torn apart, you realize that you have niehter a logical nor an intelligent retort so…. AGAIN YOU MUST LASH OUT AND ATTACK LIKE A 2nd GRADER THROWING A TEMPER TANTRUM and Grasp to ANY INSULT YOU CAN FIND, IN AN EFFORT TO COVER YOUR INFERIORITY!

JUST SAD!

By KC

August 10, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

Coach: Forgive me, but I’m entirely sure what you’re getting at. Are you saying you feel that’s an indicator that Willie Harris will be in center next year??

BTW ya’ll, it is worth noting that Willie Harris is a free agent at season’s end. One one think he’ll want to do all he can to return to Atlanta, but we won’t know for certain until next year.

By Jesse

August 10, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

dude i am sick and tired of mets fans coming to this blog and then speaking out of their a**es…yes if the mets win six of seven the braves could be in trouble, but you could say the exact same thing for the mets if the braves do the same thing. the fact is we mightily choked in that series and we still won it. For all the talk about the mets infinitely better starting rotation, we won 2 of 3 (should have swept) mono e mono against your best starters with our best starters. no chop zone is a dam-n fool. im glad you “think” youre man enough to come to this blog after you were shocked yesterday but dont start throwing out hypothetical situations that can easily be manipulated from either side. the fact is the race is far from being over for any club. and the other fact is we have the mets number and there isnt shi—-t you can say about that to refute it.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

Isn’t it “funny” that a new and gentler NCZ comes on to a very cool reception, and then disappears and who appears? The drool fool! Anyone that doesn’t see that connection just ain’t lookin’!

By MS

August 10, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

Could the reason for Ascanio or Paronto being called up be because they were sent down less than 10 days ago (I think they were sent down on Aug 1)?

I thought you could be brought back up in less than 10 days if someone was injured, but I guess if Wickman isn’t going on the DL but is just not available for a few days, then they can’t be brought up. That could explain why Acosta would be up instead of the other two, more likely (deserving) candidates.

DOB, does that make sense?

By MS

August 10, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

Could the reason for Ascanio or Paronto not being called up be because they were sent down less than 10 days ago (I think they were sent down on Aug 1)?

I thought you could be brought back up in less than 10 days if someone was injured, but I guess if Wickman isn’t going on the DL but is just not available for a few days, then they can’t be brought up. That could explain why Acosta would be up instead of the other two, more likely (deserving) candidates.

DOB, does that make sense?

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

NCBravesfan I wonder how decisions are being made regarding the relievers.Paronto,Ascanio,Devine and others show they can contribute but somehow they don’t tickle management’s fancy.I don’t get it either,it looks like they don’t let facts interfere with judgement.

By Rimfire

August 10, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

The “Rock-Paper-Scissors Contest” on ESPN was more important than the the “beckham” deal….!

By Arkansas Hillbilly

August 10, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

I usually don’t pi$$ and whine about personnel decisions and who gets called up/sent down, but I see absoultely no reason why Paranto’s big melon-head shouldn’t be on a plane to Philly right now.

By KC

August 10, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

Coach: Of course I meant to say… I’m not entirely sure what you’re getting at.

By sammy miller

August 10, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

First am i first!!!! Chipper is the Man! I love beating the Mets! Now lets take it to the Philies! Any word on Wick?

By Anders

August 10, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

DOB To answer an earlier question - Had Wickman been in Atlanta and found to be healthy enough to pitch but his flight BACK was cancelled that would leave you short a closer tonight. THAT sir, is the difference.

Whatever.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Paladin,

I think the drooler is actually NCZ’s 6 year old son. If that is true, then perhaps we should cut poor ole NCZ some slack. Can you imagine having a child like that?

By TheCutMan

August 10, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

How many whacks do you normally get? That’s the slug line from an old commercial featuring the testy woman asking the redneck mechanic about her car in response to his common refrain of “We’ll take another whack at it”.

Serious question though. How many chances does a Cormier or any other player get to prove his worth in MLB? Of course there are mitigating factors such as injuries and such, but really, how many whacks does a guy normally get??

Some of you stat-heads might offer up some past case histories, both pro and con? Consider yourself challenged to do so.

At some point, as the team did in dealing Davies, it’s time to either fish or cut bait and give another guy a shot. So, here we are again with Cormier being inserted into the 5th starting spot and management hoping he can get it done again?

Success or failure is fact-based. Say it again: Success or failure is fact based.

By Colin

August 10, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

Why wouldnt they want Moylan closing he is by far our most reliable reliever….

By W. C.

August 10, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

I agree with you Jesse, All you Muts Fans need to be on your own teams blog and leave us Braves Fans alone!!!!!!!

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

DOB, who’s this Beckham guy everyone’s talking about? Is he a musician?

By Bob

August 10, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

Anders,

I suspect you might be right, but not sure I would want to trust a NY or Philly doctor on the MRI. LOL

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

Anders Gettin’ in a whizzing contest with DOB is like heckling the performer in a comedy club. He has the mike and can talk “over” you from now to infinity. So, do as the rest of us have learned to do and say “Yes sir, thank you, sir” and move on. Otherwise, all you are going to end up with is wet shoes.

By BossLady

August 10, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

Hold on JD, his wife is not in the game.

By Chase

August 10, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

PALADIN

I think you are on to something with NCZ and MUTS DROOL!

Either way when he/they come on, the Collective IQ of the people on this blog is CUT BY 75 PERCENT!

By Arkansas Hillbilly

August 10, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

chrisklob,

Good point….DOB replaced music on the blog with David Beckham. He should be tied to the whipping post 8 -O

By NCBravesFan

August 10, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

Anders We love ya man … but you might want to work on the fiber intake just a wee touch.

By bravedawg

August 10, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

DOB -

Keep to baseball a sport you know. Don’t dog on Beckham and soccer until you actually are the beat writer for that sport. GO BRAVES!

By Ron Roberts

August 10, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

Chad (ground ball reliever) Paronto would be good to have in Filthy., true dat.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

Bob You really think he is six? Then he is retarded, but we already knew that, didn’t we? :-)

By Salty

August 10, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

MS

I believe you’re correct…I was thinking the same thing.

By NCBravesFan

August 10, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

WC and Jesse Have you seen the Mets blog? It sucks! No wonder they come here.

By Arkansas Braves fan

August 10, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

Everyone knows that if Molyan stays in the game and pitches in the 9th, it’s three up and three down. He threw like 5 pitches in the 8th, instead of a sure thing Bobby went to what has become a circus of a bullpen. I think Soriano is out of chances to pitch the 8th. It demoralizes the team when a guy gets whacked evertime he pitches. I know Dotel hasn’t looked sharp but it’s time to give someone else a chance.

By RedEyedAndBlue

August 10, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Gil and Jersey Gil - Agreed about Barbaro (“isn’t he a horse?” my wife asks at the Richmond game last weekend.). The guy can rake and plays a pretty decent first base. Reminds me a little bit of Francisco Cabrera.

Something for the bloggers to consider: I’m not sure how the parent club handles this, but the Richmond Braves are likely to make the AAA playoffs, which could affect who gets called up and when a guy gets called up. Any idea, DOB, what they would do in that situation? As KC and others have pointed out, there are a lot of nice options in the Richmond bullpen right now that would help out the parent club come 1 Sept.

Good call, DOB, on GaGaGa… A huge fan of master musical genius Britt Daniel, particularly his Pixies-inspired stuff (dude must’ve listened to the Pixies non-stop during the late 1980s.). But in Jeff Tweedy fashion he really built on the sound of Girls Can Tell and formed something unique and rocks with GaGaGa… That’s really all a fan can ask.

By Bret & Jemaine

August 10, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

To us Enzedders, Oz is the Back of Bourke. But Peter Moylan is a beaut. A fair dinkum bonzer.

The rest of the Braves pen makes us want to chunder. And Bobby Cox is a drongo if he doesn’t tab Peter for the possie of closer. Peter’s got the knackers to get it done. Soriano is a prang waiting to happen. And Wickman is a naff looking to be shellacked.

So, Peter: ava go yer mug!

By Renegator

August 10, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

bravedog:

Do they even have beat writers for Soccer? Does anybody care enough?

By TampaBrave

August 10, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Spoilin’ Moylan

or

Foilin’ Moylan

or

Soilin’ Moylan

By AthensBrave

August 10, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

voice of reason:

your 4:21 post was hilarious, made me laugh on a tough friday

thanks

By Renegator

August 10, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

You guys obviously don’t know Bobby well enough. I’d bet that Soriano will be the closer with Wickman out. Bobby is too stubborn not to.

By Luther

August 10, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

Mets rule. You drool. Waste, I mean, Chase, nice spelling neck! Bragg? is that supposed to mean brag? Hahahahhaha!!!! Nice 3rd rate education you got down there. Idiot.

“Is” should be capitalized buddy.

By Lew

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

NCBraves Fan-I don’t actually know this to be the case, but….If we were to make the playoffs, anyone eligible would have had to be on the ML roster prior to Sept. 1-which Paronto has been. Calling up Acosta right now, rather than Paronto, puts Acosta in the mix if we make it to October. Anyway-It sounds reasonable, but I wonder why Paronto hasn’t been brought back-especially being a ground ball pitcher when our bullpen problems have involved giving up HR’s.

By Jonny B Good

August 10, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave, got a question for you. Here it goes. I thought that after the trade deadline, the only way a team could trade a player to another team is if that player passed through the waiver wire. So how did Mark Sweeney, pinch hitter extraordinare, get through the waiver wire for just cash or a PTBNL?

Thanks

By TexasBrave

August 10, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

Gil in Mech. how about a report on Acosta. His numbers look good (except for 35 walks in 59 innings) and he has been their closer, but someone said he has struggled as of late.

DOB - is MS right it hasn’t been 10 days the reason Devine or Paronto has not been called up? I guess I need to keep better track of those things, sorry.

By GSU-Lee

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

Bravedawg, I have no problem with DOB or anyone else dogging the Beck-circus because he is a joke. How is all that money working out so far? And DOB covers the Braves. Going from the Braves to a soccer team would be like going from the Braves to some team in western Montana (in other words, a demotion, so he wouldn’t do it). So while on baseball blog, it is okay to dog other sports. ESPECIALLY Soccer.

By Bob

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

Paladin,

Well, I think I heard somewhere that he was six. I know he is constantly getting put on time out by his mom. He gets so mad after the Mets lose to the Braves, his mom takes his lap top away from him. That explains why he never shows up after the Mets lose. I think dad (NCZ) comes on when the drooler is on timeout. I did notice today that drooler showed up after I pi$$ed NCZ off.

I might not agree with Anders but he is logical and fun to debate with. He is rational most of the time, which you must admit is odd for a Mets fan.

By Anders

August 10, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

Paladin I just answered a question he posed and I did address him as SIR.

By Jonny B Good

August 10, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this

Hey Luther, you also forgot to point out that he/she spelled check wrong, they spelled it neck. lol.

Waste, I mean, Chase, nice spelling neck! Bragg? is that supposed to mean brag? Hahahahhaha!!!! Nice 3rd rate education you got down there. Idiot.

What a loser.

By Leigh

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

DOB Please Read! This is Very Important

I am very concerned over Bobby Cox’s continued use of both Tyler Yates and Rafael Soriano. What is most concerning to me is the following quote from Bobby Cox when questioned about overusing Soriano; “It’s all location,” Cox said. “It’s not how hard you throw it. It’s where you put it.” In other words, Cox is under the impression that if he was overusing his relievers then they would be losing velocity and not location.

I work in sportsmedicine and not trying to toot my own horn, but I know what I am talking about. Soriano and Yates are suffering from what is called “overtraining”. To elaborate, when you put the body through a workout you must first recover from that workout before you peform another one to prevent from overtraining. The recovery part entails having the muscles recover from the workout. However, what people don’t realize is that in addition to the muscles recovering from the workout, the central nervous system(CNS) must also recover from the workout. In other words, when Rafael Soriano goes out and throws 20 pitches in a game, he has not only taxed his muscles, but he has also taxed his CNS. Unfortunately, the CNS takes much longer to recover than the muscles do. As a result, someone who continues to pitch without adequate rest is going to suffer from overtraining and while velocity will eventually be effected, the first thing to go is going to be location because that is mediated by your hand-eye coordination which is a CNS mediated process.

What I am trying to say is that as long as Bobby Cox continues to use Soriano and Yates as has been doing, the result is going to be the same. At this point and time they need prolonged rest to let their CNS heal so that they can be effective again. A brief sting on the DL should suffice and to me is 100% absolutely necessary. You have 2 pitchers whose bodies are not accustomed to the volume of work they are being asked to perform.

I am not speculating that this is what is happening, I am 100% positive. I have worked in sportsmedicine rehabilitation for almost 10 years. I have taken many course from my idols Jimmy Andrews(Tommy John surgery guru who did Smoltzies surgery) and Kevin Wilk(who has done the rehab for many professional baseball pitchers). You can explain the scenario to either of these guys and I am sure they will back up what I have said 100%.

The problem is that until Cox gets this message, he is not going to realize that he is wrong in the way he is using these relievers.

DOB, since you are part of the media that is able to communicate directly with Cox and people in the organization; is there any way that you can get the message through that his pitchers are suffering from overtraining? I know my request sounds wierd and corny, but I have been a loyal Braves fan my entire life and know that I can actually make a difference here if someone would just listen to me.

By Anders

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

Bob I think you have me confused with SJA !

By JD

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

Here’s how I see it - if the Braves just tread water now through the next series against the Mets at the end of the month and keep the lead at 3.5, then take two of three, that gets the lead to 2.5. Then tread water until the next series in mid-sep and take two of three, that gets the lead to 1.5 with 2+ weeks to play and it’s a sprint to the finish. I;d take my chances with the Braves in those circumstances.

By Chase

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

LOL! THANKS LUTHER

He’s just a Typical MUTS Fan… Can’t even insult someone Correctly!

LOL!

By Tad

August 10, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

Let me remind the Mets fans on this Braves blog of the recent history of the two teams over the last 17 years.

Record: Braves 1540-1037 (.598), Mets 1244-1279 (.493).

90+ win seasons: Braves 13, Mets 3.

100+ win seasons: Braves 6, Mets 0.

90+ loss seasons: Braves 0, Mets 5.

Managers: Braves 1, Mets 8.

NL MVPs: Braves 2, Mets 0.

NL Cy Young Awards: Braves 6, Mets 0.

NL Manager of the Year Awards: Braves 3, Mets 0.

NL ROY Awards: Braves 1, Mets 0.

Division Titles: Braves 14, Mets 1.

National League Pennants: Braves 5, Mets 1.

World Series Titles: Braves 1, Mets 0.

Head-to-Head Playoff Series: 1999 NLCS- Braves 4, Mets 2.

2007 Head to Head: Braves 8, Mets 4.

Plus, the Braves obviously have a better online blog and beat reporter (Thanks, DOB) that Mets fans are obviously jealous of.

I don’t understand why these few peon Mets fans get their kicks out of posting about their inferior franchise on here, especially after having lost all 3 head-to-head series this year.

By Fred B.

August 10, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

Mets Rule, didn’t you guys choke in the Series the last time you were there…

By AJK

August 10, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

DOB:

I read on ESPN.com that the Braves had talked to the Yankees about Farnsworth before the non-waiver trade deadline, and that Farnsworth has cleared waivers in the past week. Have you heard anything from the Braves about possibly re-acquiring him?

AJK

By Anders

August 10, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

Leigh funny you should mention “overtraining”. That was the first thing the doctors ruled out when they looked at Wickman today.

By Anders

August 10, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

JD at the sake of being repetitive have you looked at both teams final games? The Mets play the Marlins and Nats their last 14 while the Braves play Milwaukee and the Phillies 7 out of their last 10. Not sure you want to place that bet even up.

By Paladin

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

Anders son. See my earlier to Efrim about missing things.

Bob Don’t say nice things about Anders. They go to his head. :-)

Bret & Jermaine G’day, mates.

By AthensBrave

August 10, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

Leigh,

very interesting stuff….soriano threw 95+ the 1st half of the season and has been topping out around 93/94 lately.

Bobby is too stubborn sometimes

By JP

August 10, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this

I guess one good thing can be said about Mets fans this year is that dude from Queens who caught 756 at AT&T Park. Go Mets!

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this

Leigh, interesting post. Is the recovery rate of the CNS the same for different individuals? Is there anything that can be done to increase this recovery rate?

I’d be willing to bet that the team has professional trainers on the staff that are aware of this. Don’t you think that they would have brought this up to BC?

I said here several weeks ago that I thought that Yates and Soriano were tired — either physically, mentally, or both and they both deserved a well-deserved 15 day vacation. Those guys were so good earlier this year and I have a feeling that we’re really going to need them the next seven weeks or so (and hopefully longer).

By Chase

August 10, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

At a Boy TAD

Great Post!

By Braveheart

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

I am as frustrated or more with Andruw than anyone but people seem to think it is going to be so easy to replace Andruw. The Willie Harris proposal just ain’t working for me next year. Great little story, great plays yesterday but best suited for a jack of all trades role of the bench.

Despite all Andruw’s frustrating stubbornness and problems, Braves centerfielders have the following:

5th highest CF OPS in the NL in 2007. 2nd highest CF OPS in 2006. 1st highest CF OPS in 2005. 3rd highest CF OPS in 2004. 4th highest CF OPS in 2003. 3rd highest CF OPS in 2002.

1st in CF homers in 2001. 1st in CF homers in 2002. 3rd in CF homers in 2003. 5th in CF homers in 2004. 1st in CF homers in 2005. 1st in CF homers in 2006. 2nd in CF homers in 2007.

1st in CF RBIs in 2007. 1st in CF RBIs in 2006. 1st in CF RBIs in 2005. 5th in CF RBIs in 2004. 2nd in CF RBIs in 2003. 3rd in CF RBIs in 2002. 3rd in CF RBIs in 2001.

4th in SLG in 2000. 5th in SLG in 2001. 3rd in SLG in 2002. 3rd in SLG in 2003. 3rd in SLG in 2004. 1st in SLG in 2005. 2nd in SLG in 2006. 5th in SLG in 2007.

AND OH YEAH THE BEST DEFENDER IN THE PLANET - TOP 5 ALL TIME IN CF. Rarely injured - plays through injuries.

He is not worthy of cleanup, not really worthy of $20 million, not very clutch, not the greatest with RISP, not well conditioned, does not work hard as we would like at his craft but good lord these kind of centerfielders just don’t grow on trees.

Who exactly is going to replace him? Some punch and judy hitting above average defenders? Don’t think we’ll have the money to sign him but these genius ideas that Willie Harris or some minor leaguer is going to take his place is laughable. We’ll go from consistent best all around centerfielder to bottom three in the league overnight.

Then, of course, we’ll have to trade four more minor leaguers at the trade deadline next year to buy an adequate rental in center.

He’s gone next year - not worth the money he wants but can you all stop with the simplistic remarks that you can just throw Willie Harris out there and he’ll be better than Druw please?

By Savannah Guy

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

ssiscribe Ok, don’t want to give the wrong impression here, but…I love you man….uh, your posts anyway. Talk about consistently good. Seems like every day I am tempted to send you an “excellent post” or “thanks for the info” or “damn, that’s a unique perspective” or “well said”. Anyway, just wanted you to hear from one of many…thanks for the consistent good stuff. That’s why you are…the scribe and why I wanted to say that. Earlier you said, in part:

”…even though the Braves came way too close to a loss that might have crushed their division hopes, it had to hurt the Mets that much more…”

On getting in the heads of the Mets after the loss…I’m inclined to have the same perspective as you on the after effect. Based on so many years of Mets playing brides maid (or just old maid) to the Braves, the two W’s (catch by Willy and Win) and based on our recent deals and their (similar) struggles, it’s highly possible that we just reconfirmed to the Mets that the Braves may “do it” to them once again. Their mindset must be, the Braves seem to find a way.

The timing and loss of the series should weigh heavy on Met’s minds, whether they feel they were robbed or that we just got “lucky”. That mental edge the Braves have is supported because we have all but owned them this year. I suspect the Mets now have an understandable nagging fear of head to head play.

Either way, we got in their heads. So the confidence edge goes…stays, once again with the Braves. That’s Braves baseball and that’s why the win yesterday will loom. Having the edge is a self-perpetuating position in anything competitive. It fosters a sustainable cycle of confidence. It breeds success.

Now, we take that to PA and rock on…

By OLD LEFTY

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

Leigh … we are all very privileged to have you stoop to counsel our unwitting team. But you need to come to grips with a certain baseball reality. Namely, a season is 162 games with precious few days off amidst. Watch for a few years … shut up and watch. What happens with bullpens and how they are used may well be one of the most amazing aspects of this game as it is played on the Major League level. The delicate balance of challenge, grind, rebound, rest, and readiness is a veritable symphony … not something one picks up with just a few lessons.

Now, go back to your lessons and tune in tonight for the next performance.

Oh … and don’t try this at home … these guys are professionals.

;-)

By Chop Chop

August 10, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

Beckham’s getting paid about 9 million a year. That $250 million BS was including the money he makes in endorsements. It was all hype.

Beckham has already returned the investment MLS made in him. He’s a good player (in the Derek Jeter mold…a leader, overrated by some and underrated by others) and will add a lot to soccer in this country just by being here.

I think it’s ridiculous for fans to rip other sports. That’s like some woman who loves “The Bachelor” ripping another women who loves “American Idol” more. It just makes me laugh.

By Anders

August 10, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

Chase and TAD Some how I saw that coming.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

Leigh I think what you say makes a lot of sense and I respect your credentials to say it. But, remember that DOB just gets to ask questions; they don’t ask him for his opinions about how to run the team.

I suggest that you put that in an e-mail or a letter and hope that it gets read. With your credentials, why not send it to Dave Porter(?). Isn’t that the trainers name?

By David O'Brien

August 10, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN: Wickman’s forearm is fine, just some inflammation. Had an MRI (we weren’t told that) yesterday at a NY hospital, then had CT scan today at a Philly hospital. Both came back negative, which is of course, positive (that medical terminology always gets me).

By the way, asked Bobby who’d close if Wickman couldn’t and he said they had three who could _ Soriano, Dotel and … Moylan. Yes, he said it.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

Old Lefty Leigh made a very thoughtful post. And, unlike many others on here, he has the “credentials” to back up what he says. Give him a little slack, wadda ya say?

By TennesseePaul

August 10, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

First!

Damn

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

That’s good news on Wicky. As puzzling as he’s been on the road, he’s been lights out at home.

I wonder if the visiting team clubhouse spread is offering enough cheeseburgers for his liking? I’d hate to think that he’s going to the mound hungry!

By TexasBrave

August 10, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

Leigh - Great information from which I have no doubt you are correct. However, chrisklob is also correct that the Braves have trainers that had to have brought up the same topic with Bobby. Unfortunately, 1. I think Bobby is too old school to take any such advice into consideration and 2. We would be hard pressed to DL just one of those guys not to mention both.

Thanks for the passion though!!!

By AthensBrave

August 10, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this

YES, MOYLAN FOR CLOSER

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 10, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

KC , I’m agreeing with you. Andruw is all but gone.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 10, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

Anders,

RE: The end of season schedule —

I look at it as either

a) It’s a long time from now ‘til then; fans shouldn’t lose any sleep worrying about who’s playing whom the last few games until mid-September or —

b) Who cares? The Braves and Mets should both make the postseason anyway. They’ll be jockeying to see who wins the East and who’s the wild card.

By TennesseePaul

August 10, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

DOB: Thanks for the work man. I appreciate the updates, even if I haven’t posted as frequently.

To be honest, I have a very good job which demands a lot of attention and includes a ton of beer drinking. I live in SoCal to boot so I’m not complaining. But lately the beer drinking has really consumed the majority of my time, making it hard to blog on a regular basis. Hey, at least I get paid!

I wanna see some W’s this weekend Bravos! I wanna see some fighting spirit. Some gumption. Some guts. Glory. History. Let’s do it Chuck James!
I’m Chuck James B!tch!Dominance.

GO BRAVES

By Randall

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

The group I sports talk with have been wondering why they hadn’t bumped Slim Wickman some time ago. I mean when your 40 years old and you weigh what must be almost 300 pounds your obviously not doing a lot of exercise to better your self. His next contract with me would have to include an incentive to get his hand to mouth disease under control, I know you guys can’t write like this because it sounds personal, I don’t have that restriction so I will. You can thank me some day.

By bryan

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

Dave, you see the ECO project line up … the flaming lips and Sun Volt just joined a line up of the killers, the roots, and a few other notables … october 12th - 14th

By ppaddy123

August 10, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, you left out AJ’s most glaring stat…..BA with runners in scoring position…..HE’S STINKING UP THE JOINT!! I would rather the Bravos had a centerfielder that could get a clutch hit with runners in scoring position. Bat him 8th, Bobby, PLEASE. Escobar is wasted batting behind him.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

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

Cool , an extra pitcher in the bullpen. Damn , did I say something positive , Sorry about that. I feel the same about Buddy Carlyle as much of the blog did concerning Tim Hudson early on this season. I’m starting to believe in Buddyball. But , unless this blowpen does a 180 degree about face , this 2007 Braves squad has about a snowball’s chance in hell of making the playoff’s.

By Paladin

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

TennesseePaul me thinks you got into the brew a little early “tonight”. Partiularly when one notices that it is only 2:55 on the left coast. But hey, up to the lips on over the gums; look out stomach here she comes. :-)

By ppaddy123

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

If I were Scott Borus……..I’d kick Andruw Jones square in his a* for the way he’s played this year.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Coach(etc.) You, sir, are about as “positive” as I am that OJ is not guilty.

By TennesseePaul

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

Braeheart: I’m with you. I appreciate the astute stat listing of AJ’s abilities. I for one don’t want to see him go. I love AJ. I’ve watched him play since AA. I hate to think of anyone in center other than AJ. I hope they can resign him and Tex and win 10 in a row.

But one fact does keep popping up and it’s hard to deny.
AJ has not won anyone a world series ever. Since he has been in the majors, playing for the Braves, the World Series winner has not had AJ in center.
It’s true, replacing his production in center will be hard. Impossible. Seeing him play for some other team will be unbearable. But it’s hard to argue that he is needed in order to win it all when we’ve had him and won nothing.
Replacing AJ can and will only be done by picking up players that compensate for his offensive production at other positions.
Having said all that, I’ll repeat this part. I hope he returns. I know N8 and others can’t wait to see him walk. But I hope he can come back. But only at the right price. I’ll be bummed if he is signed to a massive contract that prevents the team from revamping other needs the team has. I’d rather have a World Series than an iconic player. But I’d love to have both. … I think if AJ talks to Tejada and maybe others, he’ll see that side of it. The all-mighty-dollar doesn’t make up for World Championships.

By OLD LEFTY

August 10, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this

Paladin … nothing but respect here for your posts. Might even say I am a fan of yours. That said, however, Leigh has claimed credentials. Sorry, but that is not the same as establishing them. But, hey, this is a blog, not a convention of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons or the American Psychiatric Association. I get it.

That said and acknowledged, Leigh suggests a stint on the freakin’ DL for Soriano and Yates “… is 100% absolutely necessary …”

Excuse me, and while you may well be right about my tone earlier for which I would now formally apologize to you and all the other honorable Denizens, but when do we propose, in the midst of this ever-heating-up Pennant Race to give this little vacation to two arms we, no pun intended, sorely need ….. right now?

My point: management of this game, when well-designed as it is with this elite franchise, this WS-bound group of finely-honed, wise pros, goes way beyond any parochial half-baked “sports medicine” theoreticals.

This is, truly, THE BIGS. And the Bravos are, at this juncture, among the absolute Best of the Best. They really do not need some chiropractic (or whatever) wannabe counseling them on how to manage their bullpen. Furthermore, I, among I would think more than a few other of the denizens (lower case used intentionally as I do not consider myself in the same league with you and most of the other superb posters herein) do not need to have our blog space cluttered with such amateurish baloney.

Again, and apologies for the ridiculous length of this, I come here to learn from you and the others that grace this space. Leigh should, as others have suggested, take his or her “expert advice” to Porter and the others and see just how seriously they take it.

Now let’s kick some serious Philly a**.

By ernesto

August 10, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

Andruw can not possibly stay this cold for this long.

Right???

Until you realize Andruw’s hit 21 dingers and I think that is the most important number to him.

Damn he’s a double play machine these days.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this

I’m taking a dinner break and I am avoiding voiding, or even talking about it. I did!?! Sorry.

By TheSouthernJackAss

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

Anders—don’t bite off something you don’t have the teeth to chew…

By Choppinmama

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

Del: re your 3:38 - that’s my one criticism of Bobby. He can be too patient (translates to: stubborn) at times. Just like not using the hot hand approach with the pitchers and not dropping AJ in the lineup sooner.

Sure, show your players some loyalty, but we’re all in this…in varying degrees, of course…… to WIN GAMES!!

By ppaddy123

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

why can’t you say a* on the blog. My old football coach always told told us it was ok to say a* ‘cause it was in the Bible. He said a* a lot. Now I could have substituted a* with derier, but I can’t spell derier. How about tushy or bottom or glutamus maximus or rear end or pute shute. Nah…coach says a* is ok.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 10, 2007 6:22 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts—I am without a doubt going to stomp the dog$H!t out of your no class @$$…be seeing you soon…

By TennesseePaul

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

Paladin: There is never a time when it is “only”. It is always beer drinking time. The only problem is… it takes a while to type and even then I don’t really know if I typed what I wanted or what I type is correct. But whatever. It’s Friday. The Braves beat the Mets. And we got a great series this weekend.

GO BRAVES!!!!

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

Now let’s kick some serious Philly a.

Old Lefty Now we are definitely on the same wavelength. Beam us up Scottie. And Mr. Solo, warp-speed to Philly. Me, the Bravos and Old Lefty are on a mission!!

By Savannah Guy

August 10, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

Leigh Good, earnest post. You sound like you sincerely know what you’re talking about, although I’d be shocked if the Braves organization wasn’t fully aware of the medical ramifications of pitcher overtraining, or if they failed diagnose a troubling condition and make that information available to the managers. Whether it’s CNS as you suggest or other, less acute maladies, certainly Bobby Cox wouldn’t get into that detail with the press.

That said, I have no doubt that our bullpen woes are a direct result of overuse, overtraining or whatever…all due to so many short innings by starters. Add to that, tiring and adverse medical conditions are magnified this time of year with the heat, the stress, etc.

Along with recent mediocre to bad (tired) results by some relievers, regardless of the cause, I would also be concerned with some of these guys in the confidence department, after getting knocked around since the break. Physiology and psychology go hand-in-hand and are always factors with athletes. Performance results follow. No doubt overuse can create problems and begin a vicious cycle of losing. Health, effectiveness and confidence all suffer when overuse leads to ineffectiveness.

Speaking of confidence, Mahay seems to be the exact opposite of Yates in that department, per watching the games and confirmed by DOB’s interview and comments. Mahay “holds” the mound like it is “his field” when he’s out there. Moylan has the same “right stuff”. Unflappable guys and their execution follows suit. Not as sure about Dotel, but hopeful. I’m no sports doctor (nor did I stay in a Holiday Inn last night), but seems to me that with decent, 6 plus inning starts by the staff and reasonable rest for Soriano should also be fine physically going forward, unless there is a problem we don’t know about. If no arm or other problems exist, we’ll soon see what kind of comeback he’ll have and be witnesses to the “stuff” he’s made of. I have no reason to think he won’t return to his former self. My bet is on him to rebound well.

We have an abundance of confidence and many good reasons to hope.

By Vote Moylan

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

I am all about the aussie

By bravesfan

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

LINEUP’S Y Escobar, SS M Diaz, LF C Jones, 3B M Teixeira, 1B J Francoeur, RF
A Jones, CF B McCann, C K Johnson, 2B C James, P

J Rollins, SS
T Iguchi, 2B P Burrell, LF R Howard, 1B A Rowand, CF W Helms, 3B J Werth, RF C Coste, C C Hamels, P

By Braveheart

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

The saga continues…..

Kermit the Frog’s interrogation with Chief Deptuty SJA was a tough one. It looked like SJA might get the best of old Kermy until Kermy’s buddy Ron Roberts showed up and diverted Chief Deputy SJA’s attention for a while so that Kermy could make a run for it. And make a run for it Kermit did.

Law enforcement was too embarrassed to admit the bungling of this interrogation, so they have told the media they released Kermit due to the need for further investigation. Law enforcement advised the media that without a body, they were not sure whether they could charge Kermit with anything.

Unfortunately, 16 hours had passed between the time of the alleged murder of The Fly on the Wall and the time law enforcement got their hands on Kermit. He had apparently relieved himself on numerous occasions during that time span. Embarrassingly enough, law enforcement had allowed Kermit to use their bathroom facilities on at least 3 occasions while he was at the station house without thinking that Kermit might be doing away with the evidence.

Also, there are rumors swirling that The Fly On The Wall may still be alive and kicking and that he is merely missing at this point.

Even wilder rumors are flying around (no pun intended) that The Fly On The Wall is now cooperating with the Feds and is in the Witness Protection Program planning to be a witness against his former owner Savannah Guy.

If The Fly on the Wall is still alive, then which fly exactly did Kermit admit to killing? He did admit to killing a fly, even if not The Fly, did he not? That’s where it gets interesting.

The Feds are reportedly investigating whether Savannah Guy and Kermit the Frog were running an underground criminal enterprise, breeding and training flies for the purposes of illegal fly fighting.

Savannah Guy reportedly may own some country property near Savannah bought and maintained for this illicit purpose. Kermit the Frog may have been the one placed in charge of managing the day to day operations of the breeding and fighting of the flies with Savannah Guy funding the operation. Kermit of course took great joy in snuffing out the lives of those flies deemed not tough enough.

It is believed this other fly, if it is not The Fly, is one of Savannah’s fighting flies that The Fly took a liking to and attempted to smuggle out of Savannah’s fly fight training compound. Unfortunately, this other fly may have been discovered by Kermit and had his life ended. So sad and tragic.

When asked to comment, Savannah Guy said Kermit may be a complex fly killerman, but I, Savannah Guy, am nothing more than a simple fly fisherman.

In other news, Texas Brave has decided not to press charges against Miss Piggy for her Hi-Ya karate chop to Texas Brave’s chops.

By Choppinmama

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

DOB - re: your Beckham aversion……

Perhaps you DIDN’T know that The Spice Girls were reuninting to record and tour……with their 7 children in tow? I’ll let you know if I hear any more details about their show dates you don’t wanna miss.

I’ll also bet some money that you didn’t tivo Larry King last night? His guests were Scary Spice and her mouthpiece, Gloria Alred, Attorney To Rich, Wronged Women. They were going public with a paternity suit and lots of baby-momma-drama against our beloved “Bu’wheat”. You’ll hate you missed that - pretty juicy!!

By ppaddy123

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

I can say pute shute? I can’t say a*? Ok. If I were Scott Borus, I’d Kick Andruw square in his pute shute

By ernesto

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

Jeez Bobby, Andruw in front of BMac and Kelly? C’mon, that’s just stupid. Outdruw needs to be hitting 8th.

By BravesDave

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

My debate with Chase yesterday regarding 2 out of 3 vs. a winning streak was a little annoying for everyone. This nonsense with Ron and SJA is vastly more annoying.

By David O'Brien

August 10, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN…CHANGE IN PLANS… Braves put Dotel on DL with strained right shoulder, Prado staying up.

This is first that the team or Dotel has said of a shoulder strain, no mention whatsoever to anyone yesterday, when Dotel didn’t pitch. Bobby had said when I asked him about Soriano not pitching yesterday that he and Dotel were getting a day to rest, then he went into the Wickman matter and told us about his forearm and going back to Atlanta and blah blah blah.

But nothing about Dotel, then or during the half-hour we talked to him today. They just dropped that one on us. Bobby had even said in his radio show that if Wickman wasn’t DL’d, someone would be sent down (he’d told us before that it would be Prado).

Oh, well. We’re trying to get a word with Dotel before game.

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

Mets fans—— Tad(kudos) did a great job in listing the amazing record of the Braves over the past 17 years.He also noted the meager and let’s face it rather sad record of your Metropolitans over the same period.In all fairness I would like to point out NY has an unequaled number of fine bridges and high buildings from which to jump if these continued humiliations become unbearable.

By Choppinmama

August 10, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

LT(doubleAblogger)- re: your 2:56 about how exciting these Aug. games have been/will be and about not being able to sleep after Weds. nite’s loss - it was an Ambien nite for me too!

By tonight’s game, my disgust with AJ has mellowed into a mild annoyance, but I’m being Coxian optimist and hoping his lower place in the line-up will translate into smarter and more relaxed at-bats.

By bravesfan

August 10, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this

Wickman receives clean bill of health Braves closer available against Phils; Dotel lands on DL

By Chop Chop

August 10, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

I know I can’t be the only one that would look forward to Rafael Soriano entering in the bottom of the ninth to face the top of the Phillies’ lineup in a 1-run game. I can’t be, right?

By BravesDave

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

WOW, when does Mahay go on the DL??? Seems to be a trend with relievers that we acquire in trades.

This bullpen is in tatters. Holy cow.

By TexasBrave

August 10, 2007 6:46 PM | Link to this

That’s right I decided not to press charges and get my revenge later. I have a love for good pork chops and frog legs. The Fly will be avenged.

By BravesDave

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

I was just about to post how disgusted I was about Andruw hitting 6th and then I get hit with this Dotel news. Nice to lose your big new bullpen acquisition during the most important stretch of the season. I can’t believe this nonsense. I guess this is what we get for acquiring relievers with a history of arm trouble…Dotel and Gonzalez. Soriano is really going to get driven into the ground now.

By KC

August 10, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

Well I certainly HOPE Dotel really has a right shoulder strain!

It would frankly be a great relief to hear that there’s a legitimate cause of Dotel’s unimpressive performance… a cause that could be taken care of with a little rest. If this is true, I’m actually relieved.

By Savannah Guy

August 10, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

Braveheart 5:30: Hey Cuz. Agree on Willy…dittos all. I would just underline NO AJ (or caps will do). We can either find a new CF (very expensive perhaps) or put Frenchy in center, Kelly in right, Diaz left and let Willy be utility. Hey, that’s catchy…Willy the Utility. Oh, the humility!

chrisklob: Evenin’ old friend. Good news so far on Wicky. Hey, he does prefer his local Atlanta cheeseburgers to other towns. Could explain his road numbers, although cheesesteaks are a Wicky favorite too. We may see a quick recovery to get in this series.

By Wolfpack Man

August 10, 2007 6:51 PM | Link to this

As far as Ascanio, Devine, and Paronto not being brought back instead of Acosta:

Isn’t there a rule about 10 days being the minimum number of days that a player must stay in the minors before returning to the big league squad? If that is true and the Braves were unsure if someone was going on the DL, then none of the other 3 would have been eligible until at least tomorrow, if I am right about the rule?

Otherwise, Paronto would be the logical choice to replace Dotel, but if they did not know if anyone was going on the DL, then they could not take the chance of being a pitcher short tonight and possibly tomorrow.

By Bo

August 10, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this

DOB Was Dotel damaged when we got him?

By Chop Chop

August 10, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this

As for Dotel, I’m not shocked. He’s had a lot of arm problems in the last 4 years. When healthy, he’s very effective. When he ain’t, he ain’t. It’s just a shame that the Braves traded for damaged goods. It happens…and not on purpose.

By David O'Brien

August 10, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

Dotel says it’s just a muscle strained under his shoulder, not the rotator cuff or anything. He says it’s no serious, but that he probably wouldn’t be able to throw for at least a few days, so he told them it’d be a smart move to put him on DL.

Said he felt it pitching against Colorado on Sunday (his fifth appearance in seven days for the Braves, by the way), didn’t think it was a big deal, didn’t have trouble with it Tuesday when he pitched in NY, then when he was warming up in the bullpen to go in the game Wednesday he couldn’t get loose, so he told Eddie Perez and they shut him down that game.

But he thought it would clear up and he’d be OK today. When he threw today, after a couple of throws he stopped.

The injury he described and the place he pointed to, the area, sounds very similar to the Cormier injury. Dotel said it was not anything he felt until last weekend.

By KC

August 10, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

It’s certainly encouraging that Prado’s staying up. That gives us an alternative to Chris Woodward on the bench, and that can only be a good thing.

DOB: Can we request a petition on the main AJC page to have Woodward assigned to AAA? That would be great!

By Choppinmama

August 10, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

AthensBrave……..

“Good Friday Gentleman……..and Ladies”

By TexasBrave

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

DOB you mentioned that Wickman’s forearm is inflammed. Wouldn’t that necessitate some rest? I mean it can’t help his cause if he were to throw tonight.

Well with Dotel on the DL my only concern in the pen (besides Wickman’s inflammation) is Soriano. I have a bad feeling that he is going to be the closer. Here’s hoping we score 10 runs a game so we don’t have to get to a closer.

By DonCoburleone

August 10, 2007 7:07 PM | Link to this

Strained right shoulder already? Great, another trade for a reliever who is damaged goods!!!

By Bob

August 10, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

Dave,

Bill Shanks told Buck tonight the weather was actually pretty cool and that the wind was “howling” like a game at Wrigley. If it is blowing out we might be looking at a long, long game with lots of long balls. I hope we don’t over react and burn up whats left of the pen in one game.

By BosnianBaller

August 10, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB good update but soccer is the number 1 sport all over the world. I love baseball more than anybody and follow it non stop but soccer is hands down number 1. It is followed everywhere and the atmosphere in soccer stadiums is insane compared to the dull baseball atmosphere untill the playoffs come.

As for beckham he is not even top 50 or 60 players in the world but his looks and freekicks give him popularity.

By Braveheart

August 10, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

Yes, Texas Brave, Long Live The Fly!

No press release yet by Savannah Guy addressing the horrific allegations being made? We’ll continue to monitor any new developments.

It is 58 degrees in NYC right now and Joey Harrington is misfiring all over the field - not even within 5 yards of receivers.

By Ron Roberts

August 10, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

Yawn.

My email address, should any particular bloggers decide to be a grown-up and keep the bickering with me between myself and themselves, is HERE.

Either way, blog-bravado is just that; remember what happened when the dog pulled the curtains on the Wizard. Turned out he was a big-talking facade hiding a small-framed weasel.

Go BASH ‘EM, BRAVES! HAMMER HAMELS!!

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

Wolfpack Man, I believe that you are correct. The only exception is that a player may be returned to the big club if he’s replacing someone going on the DL.

Savannah Guy, hey buddy. How you doing? Sorry to hear of the demise of your friend the fly. My guess is that it was one of the Mutts trolls that was jealous of the superiority of your fly. You see, those people up there know a little something about flies since they spend so much time around that garbage dump that is called Shea Stadium!

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

This is really a crazy situation right now. If Chuck gives us his customary 5 good innings tonight…who is the first guy out of the bullpen??? Yates - NO. Moylan - NO. Wickman - NO. Soriano - NO. Villarreal??? Mahay - again??? Acosta??? This is going to be an interesting night, to say the least. If there was ever a time for Chuck James to step up and throw into the 7th inning, tonight is the night. It is very cool in the area tonight…mid-60’s. Maybe he can gain a little stamina from the cooler air. I still worry about him the third time through the order, though.

By jbutler

August 10, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

How did the bullpen get to this??!!?? The buzz going into the season was the strength of the bullpen…now this??!? Are the Mets spiking the water? Passing around koolaid?? Agh!! I’m going to DL if the bullpen does a number like yesterday. Truly.

By SourPatchKid

August 10, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this

Don’t know if anybody caught Moylan on 790 this afternoon during lunch, but he was great. Makes me like him that much more.

By Choppinmama

August 10, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this

chrisklob:

Help for recovery? Could STEROIDS and BLOOD-DOPING be the answer?

Let’s ask Jose, Rafael, Barry, Gary and Mark.

By Braveheart

August 10, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this

Very bad omen for the night: Flicking through the channels and saw Johnny Cash and John Denver on some John Denver show on PBS singing and playing the guitar with one another. Very bad omen. Sorry I saw that.

By Bravesfanin MetsLand

August 10, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this

Absolutely another big time series here. We need two out of three again to keep rolling along.

DOB I’d gladly send a cigar to your hotel if I had any confidence it would have gotten there on time. besides the party’s on for tonight since we took the series against those Mets.

By heath

August 10, 2007 7:21 PM | Link to this

will be scoreboard watching tonight….reds and marlins wins (coupled with a braves win) would really be nice tonight…

By heath

August 10, 2007 7:21 PM | Link to this

will be scoreboard watching tonight….reds and marlins wins (coupled with a braves win) would really be nice tonight…

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 10, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this

TheSouthernJackAss has been taken to task on many an occasion as to his educational, and financial status…not that it’s anyone’s business, but just so you will know…here it is…

TheJackAss has an MBA/MMM from Northwestern University(Kellog) located at Evanston, Illinois, in conjunction with an MS/PhD in Theoretical and Applied Mechanics from McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science, also associated with Northwestern University…

TheJackAss served his country, and protected pukes of all kinds, while attaining rank of 0-5 Lieutenant Colonel…and earning two Purple Hearts and one Bronze Star, among many others while in Southeast Asia…

TheJackAss also attended the University of Hard Knocks…and has lived to tell about it…

TheJackAss now owns and operates a small 3600 acre horse farm just outside of the beautiful, and hot, Charlottesville, VA…sturdy Appaloosa and spirited Arabian horses are breed, raised, and sold here, along with prize-winning Black Angus Stud Bulls…keeps a couple bucks in the pocket I guess…

TheJackAss is as big, and as tall, as has been reported…but it ain’t the size of the dog in the fight……and this dog has a plenty of both…

So, that’s about it…hope that answered some of your questions…much more to TheJackAss had anyone bothered to look…TheSouthernJackAss just wanted to have a little fun on the blog…but some made it personal…and that’s a dangerous thing…dangerous indeed…there’s just no accountability these days…so you know how to find me if you really feel the urge to leap…other than that, that’s all TheSouthernJackAss has for the ol’ MIB blog…I’ve had enough of the foolishness…good day to my friends…

By Choppinmama

August 10, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this

Tad: thanks for the Braves vs. Mutts stats. I’m sending them to several misguided Mutts-loving friends right now! And saving them to show some others the error of their Mutts-loving ways in person.

Definite IN YOUR FACE numbers!

By jbutler

August 10, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

Braveheart…sorry you saw that too. Thank God I’m a Country Boy!!!! (Couldn’t resist).

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 10, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

ppaddy123, You post one stat to rebut the multitude of stats Braveheart posted. Clutch hitting would be great but in the broad spectrum its not a overall defining stat.

Braveheart, That was an interesting statistical breakdown of Andruw Jones. I’ll attempt to take it one step more. He has contributed 134 runs (72 RBI’s and 61 Runs) toward the teams 572 which amounts to a 23% of our total offence. I don’t think people really understand what kind of impact he has on the offence. Even me, his most loyal fan, did not see this until Bravehearts post and my further research. Would anyone here belive he account for that much. Now I will be the first one to say that he probably has cost us some games, however, based on what contributions he does make I would ventrue to say Willie Harris would not come close to providing 23% of our offence for an entire year.

Blog,

I can’t believe people still respond to SJA. After a year and a half of monitoring this blog he still gets people to play into his need for attention.

The people who were talking about our bullpen being overused do to the lack of inning by our starter is really looking smart right now. The bullpen came through when our starters were struggling lets hope our they can return the favor down the stretch. You can blame Bobby for the bullpen but I think it has more to do with the early and often use of the bullpen.

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

ChoppinMama, I asked the question (which he never answered, at least not yet) because I was curious if different people recover at different rates. Some guys seem to be “rubber-armed” and can pitch effectively with greater frequency than some other guys. I’m guessing that this rate does differ between individuals.

I see where you might have thought that I might have been referring to steroids, etc. but that was not the intention of my post. I surely hope that it doesn’t come to that. The game has enough stains on it already.

By Bob, Journalist

August 10, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

Leigh, so as to avoid argumentative exchanges, it might be worthwhile to be more definitive with regard to your background and experience.

It might also be helpful to provide your definition of “over training” as some of us are accustomed to over training simply being to extend the training regimen to a point where athlete’s performance level is lowered.

I have no such credentials but it’s my understanding that when over training occurs, the trainee must be deprogrammed before being reprogrammed if optimum performance is to be realized. That is, rest may well improve the situation as it allows the system to return to a more natural state but it does not, within itself, solve the problem … the athlete must be “reconditioned”.

I would think that if the player’s central nervous system is impaired, both velocity and control would probably be adversely affected.

While I hope I’m wrong … without technical foundation and based simply on what observed, I suspect that Tyler Yates may well be in need of medical attention … but maybe he’s just tired and trying to compensate.

On a different front, I know that I’ve said it several times before … but currently, it looked to me like Dotel was throwing more strikes than he intended … he’s now on the DL.

Well, our 3,4, and 5 guys need all the help they can get … good news on Bob Wickman … hope we have our hitting shoes on tonight!

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

jbutler

Thank God I’m a Country Boy? Are you referring to yourself? I’d always thought that you were one of our lovely lady bloggers!

By heath

August 10, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

fla 1 nym 0; cin 2 sd 0; so far so good!!!!! let’s go braves!!!!!

By Choppinmama

August 10, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

Old Lefty - what a snotty reply to Leigh’s post. He sounds like a concerned fan who’s enthusiastic and optimistic (and maybe a little naive, ok?) enough to TRY to help out where he thinks he can. No one needs to shut up on this blog

Leigh, thanks for the info and insights. I’d enjoy reading your thoughts on other medical topics that concern the team. I’m sure deep down you know that the guys get the best medical care available anywhere, but if I could think of something I thought would help the team is some way, I’d try to pass it on too.

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

Way to go Mattie!

By Stark

August 10, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

wooooooooo hooooo matt!

By Bob

August 10, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

Diaz is amazing.

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

After my last posting I took my dogs for a walk.While strolling my Carolina wood I realized how ungentlemanly I had been.In the spirit of atonement let me say to you Mets fans,I certainly didn’t mean to encourage rash action.I know you urbane,evolved city dwellers understand that things can change for the better in time.This brings me to my point EVOLUTION in time pigs may indeed fly.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

Matt Diaz is UNBELIEVABLE.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 10, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

Who the hell do you bench? W. Harris? M. Diaz? K. Johnon? Sounds like a plethra of offensive talent…

Way to go Diaz! Chipper! And now Teix ood start!

By GermanBravesFan

August 10, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop: thanks for your 5:34 comment! It might just be a cultural thing that people in the US don’t understand soccer - just as much as Germans don’t understand baseball (including myself). However, when I came to the U.S., I started watching baseball and tried to understand it more. With the help of the Braves’ 1991 season, I got hooked and now I am a die-hard Braves fan! I guess if some people who absolutely dislike soccer had been to the World Cup last year and watched a game in the stadium, some of them might have changed their minds…

DOB: I agree about the Beckham thing - ESPN is overdoing it. Beckham is past his prime and is all hype!

By Tomahawkin' Again

August 10, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

The bell rings and we come up swinging.

By BreamSlide

August 10, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

I just have to get on here and say how excited I’ve been the last week or so. For this to be just the 1st week of August I find myself trying to do anything I can to pass time to get to the start of the game. I made a post recently saying how over the past 10 years I root for a team to be close to the Braves so it is more interesting and so all the fans are into it more. Well, w/ these young guys coming up and us being behind a few games, it can’t get much more interesting.

Is it weird for a guy in his 30’s to get so excited about a game?

If it is, I don’t care. I love baseball…and more than that, I LOVE THE BRAVES! We need 2 of 3 here. Mets down 1-0 after 1st.

By ernesto

August 10, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

On the upside, at least Outdruw didn’t hit into a DP.

By Niekro35

August 10, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this

That’s very bad news about Dotel. With the exception of Smoltz and Hudson, this rotation has been brutal on the pen.

That being said, The Mets are in much deeper trouble with their pitching, more so than it appears at first glance. Glavine is the only one in their rotation who is used to throwing 200 innings. Maine, their ace, has already hit the wall. It’s looking like they’re really going to need Sosa to step up, as Pedro isn’t coming back.

Let’s hope Dotel and Soriano have some good innings left. If so, the division is ours.

By Choppinmama

August 10, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

Hey, chrisklob - my husband doesn’t appreciate my sense of sarcasm sometimes either!

Those are definitely two answers that are easy, but illegal. As you said, there are enough stains on MLB laundry as it is - we don’t need to get close to those roads.

Whoo-hoo. Game’s only a few minutes old and we have 2!!!!!!!!!!!!

By BreamSlide

August 10, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

I was about to ask why Diaz was hitting 2nd and Kelly 8th. Never mind!

By Stark

August 10, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

good thing outdruw didnt hit into a dp so bmac could do the job

By GermanBravesFan

August 10, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

Braves 2-0, Mets 0-2… oooops!

By MEB

August 10, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

Any one of our left fielders catches that ball hit by Francouer. Great start tonight at the plate, well except for Andruw. I can’t believe how ineffective he has become. Now a two run double by McCann. WOW!!!

GO BRAVES!!!

By ernesto

August 10, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

BMAC! Come on boys! Pile it on, we’ll take all we can get.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

Chucky has runs to work with now. We need a real good effort and some innings tonight.

By heath

August 10, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

atl 4 phi 0; cin 3 sd 0; fla 2 nym 0…this could be a VERY VERY VERY good night……go braves!!!!!

By Choppinmama

August 10, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

Woo-hoo!! Now it’s 4-nada. Spank those Philthies, boys.

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

Allright Chuckie, your boys have you staked to a four run lead. Make it stand up!

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 10, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

Who can complain aobut anything right now? We took two out of three from the mets and were up by 4 on the phillies early. Throw strike chuck!

By BreamSlide

August 10, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

5 out of last 7 games Diaz homers!!

By Tomahawkin' Again

August 10, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Eye of the tiger, Braves…eye of the tiger. Keep pounding them. Got a feeling the 1st one to 10 wins tonight (and maybe all 3 games).

By Bob

August 10, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

GermanBrave,

Long time no see. Did you make it to Franken yet?

Hope we can win this very first game and put us in shape to win the game. Rollins just got on. We need to tighten up before the Phils can close the gap.

Agree with you on Beckham. I guess the Bundesliga begins tomorrow. Hoping FCB gets off to a good start.

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

Come on Chuckie, bear down!!!

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

A few comments to “catch up”.

I think Kermit is an IRA spy the green and all. Also, he looks so much like NCZ that it further arouses my suspicions. I think he should b taken into the restroom and made to “come clean” about the whole thing.

Paddy123* as for the use of a-crooked letter-crooked letter on here. Yes it is in the bible, but have you ever heard it used in church? If you have, you are of another denomination than I. If you want to use it legally on here, I refer you to one of **SJA’s posts. He will show you variations that you could not imagine.

——-Paladin opines———-

By Lee in S. GA

August 10, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

This Phillies team will not go down without a fight. Typical Braves / Phillies series. This will be another gut wrencher to the end.

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

To all who question many Bobby Cox’s moves (myself included).This is why he’s one of the all-time greats.After a horrible,demoralizing loss like wedneday’s we see it as damaging to the spirit and we’re sure there’ll be carry over.Bobby shrugs it off and gets on to the next thing.Braves teams over the past 17 years have been bi-products of his unrelenting,even keeled optimism. James gives it all back pitching,pitching,pitching..oh my.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

So much for that lead.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 10, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

Here comes all the negative peeps! Ok, what could of Bobby done different because I’m sure someone will say something.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 10, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

Here comes all the negative peeps! Ok, what could of Bobby done different because I’m sure someone will say something.

By heath

August 10, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

jeez chuck!! …you gotta be kidding me!!!

By GermanBravesFan

August 10, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

Hey Bob… I am in Franken right now, so let me know what kind of wine you want me to bring you! FCB starts the season tomorrow and the additions they’ve made in the off season were amazing! Ribery, Toni, Klose, Ze Roberto, etc. - a great season is looming!

Looks like the Braves got this one under control, so I might call it a night. It’s 2 a.m. here…

By KC

August 10, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

My God this is disheartening.

By Lee in S. GA

August 10, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

Tex has not exactly sparkled with his defense at 1st base since becoming a Brave.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry about my earlier. It took forever to post. I, too, am much more interested in the game. GO BRAVES

By Tomahawkin' Again

August 10, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

Can I get a re-write on what I typed a few minutes ago? 1st one to 15 wins tonight. Oh boy, put your seat belts on and put your trays in the upright position. It’s going to be one of those games…

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

August 10, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

See what is happening now??? Chuck James has heart, no doubt…but…no real out pitch. A good change-up no doubt. But, lets say we somehow got into the playoffs, or the world series. And Chuck has to come up for the first game since Smoltz had to go for game seven. Teams lay off the Changeup, and aim for his 87 mph straight fastball….

And now we hear Andruw cannot really throw??? So, he couldn’t hit well before, now he can’t even swing right? And he is still in there????

I’ll tell you what, with another homer by the formerly great hitting, but no power Diaz,(And now he seems to even have a very good arm to go along with his improved fielding overall) and Willie’s great play last night…they both need to be starting now. Phillies benched their 13.5 million dollar man for a good chuck of the season, and he wasn’t even hurt! And now he is hot…

By jbutler

August 10, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

Gosh…who could’ve seen this coming??

By Braves20

August 10, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this

Nice work Chuckie! Might want to work on developinga breaking ball.

Now where are those bloggers who ten days ago were saying we’re better off with him than Glavine. Hell, give me David Wells pot belly and all.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

GermanBraveFan,

As Lee Corso would say…not so fast my friend. Of course this might end at 0800 Zentral Europaescher Zeit, Samstag frueh.

Looks like our pen will be worked heavily again tonight. Thirty one first inning pitches by James. Fortunately 37 by Hamels.

Thanks for the Wein offer. I will be in Wuerzburg in January and pick up some Bocksbeutels. Enjoy your stay.

By StingerSplash

August 10, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

You’ll have to forgive me if this sounds negative, but… Is there a more maddening pitcher than Chuck James? It’s bad enough the kid can’t seem to go more than six innings, if he even gets to six, but this performance, after getting staked to a 4-0 lead … bad. Just bad. The Phillies have a pretty good lineup, but you can’t give back a lead your team just got off one of the best pitchers in the NL. Honestly, I don’t see James figuring into the Braves plans past 2007, not unless he does some major endurance work or finds a way to avoid performances like this one. The more I see of James, the less I think he’ll be more than a No. 5 pitcher. If he’s truly a No. 3, he’s got to give them some innings - and not cough up 4-run first-inning leads.

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Come on guys don’t get long ball happy and uppercut everything.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

Ledezma started for Pads tonight and got rocked too. Relieved in the 3d. Reds up 4-2.

By GermanBravesFan

August 10, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

Guess I won’t go to bed after all… damn, I thought this was a comfortable lead. Oh well, it’s a long way to go!

By bill

August 10, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this

I hate to be negative but I said from the start C. James is no better than a #5. I’d rather have Davies than him. He’s not as good as he was last year.I can’t understand why he just has two pitches. This is why the pen is in bad shape. They only have one good healthy starter. I hope he get his act together and gives them at least six inning’s.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

Not very clutch start here by Chuck. This guy pitches well when the Braves cannot provide offensive support, but when the Braves score runs, he is terrible.

Can anyone verify this with statistics? I am going to try, but maybe it just seems that way. It sure seems like every time the Braves score some runs for him, he cannot make it hold up without getting knocked around.

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

August 10, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy,

Now, now…Bobby is not at fault, all the time! ;) Lets just see if he leaves Chucky out too long tonight. If he gives up 7-8 runs, can he come on out then????

Oh…and who is that guy in the MLB ads touting the Milwaukee Brewers??? He sounds/looks familiar….

By JasonInMaine

August 10, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

You can’t start at this level with two pitches when one of them is a 88-90 MPH fastball and suspect location…

A 3rd pitch sure would be nice…

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

GermanBraves fan The Bravos have about as much “control” of this game as Wiley Coyote has of the Roadrunner. Stick with us, hoss. This might take awhile.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this

GermanBravesFan,

Tomorrow’s game will be on at 2200 your time just in case you did not know. It is a Fox broadcast here in the States.

Good inning by Chuckie.

By GermanBravesFan

August 10, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

Bob - let me know when you’ll be there and I’ll buy the first glass! I should be there until around the tenth…

By KC

August 10, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

OKAY, even if Renteria returned tomorrow - I know he’s on the DL and that’s not possible… but if he did return tomorrow… I don’t think you can move Matt Diaz from the 2-slot right now, can you?

Matt Diaz has GOT to stay right where he is for now.

And if I’m managing this team, AJ would get regular days off to allow Harris and Diaz to play more regularly.

By N8

August 10, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

Big shocker. Chuck on the mound, and the bullpen’s gonna have to give us 3+ innings.

Nice job Chuck.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

Someone made a great point a few days back regarding Chuck James. Maybe he should have worked a little this offseason on developing a third pitch, rather than installing windows for Home Depot or Lowes or whatever the hell it was. Giving back a 4-run lead in one inning is completely, utterly demoralizing. I have to figure the Braves hitters/fielders must want to choke this guy right now. This is a pennant race, I think.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this

Oh by the way, this is a little late but….WES HELMS???!!! C’mon. Jeez.

By GermanBravesFan

August 10, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this

Paladin: I’ll stay up, don’t worry! I wish I could watch the game on tv and not just on my damn laptop! It sucks to continuously click on “refresh”!

By N8

August 10, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Lee in S. GA*

“Tex has not exactly sparkled with his defense at 1st base since becoming a Brave.”

He may be a fine defensive 1B, but I take the gold glove awards about as seriously as most of you do my posts. Ever since Rafael Palmeiro won the gold glove when he played about 100 games at DH, I’ve pretty much ignored them. That and when Vinny came back to the Braves when Chipper moved to LF, Vinny should’ve won it at 3B, but Rolen’s reputation was already in place.

Gold gloves are won off of reputation and popularity, not merit.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 8:30 PM | Link to this

GermanBravesFan,

I don’t get to Munich until 16th and then skiing in Kitz for a week. Will be in Wuerzburg later in month. I will open a Franziskaner Hefe (Helles) right now and toast you.

Unfortunately Hamels looks like he may have found his zone right now. He has thrown almost 60 pitches, but the heart of the Philly lineup coming to the plate.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

Another thing that this game makes clear…the Braves #3 starter is Buddy Carlyle. Absolutely no doubt about it. I feel 100 times more confident with Carlyle on the mound than I do with Chuck James. His performance also makes Kyle Davies’ mental issues all the more frustrating. On a pure ‘stuff’ basis, Davies makes Chuck look like a high school pitcher. Unfortunately, he could not put it together. But here we are with another pitcher that is having trouble getting out of the first inning.

By Bay Area Steve

August 10, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

SourPatchKid If you don’t mind, would you elaborate a bit for those of us outside the Atlanta area. I really like Moylan from the little I’ve heard; would love to here some more.

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this

Berigan

Oh…and who is that guy in the MLB ads touting the Milwaukee Brewers??? He sounds/looks familiar….

I was thinking the same thing.

By KC

August 10, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this

A 3rd pitch (or lack thereof) has NOT been Chuck’s problem tonight.

He’s been getting big league hitters out for over a year now without a 3rd pitch. Sure, an effective 3rd pitch would make him a better pitcher, but location has been the problem tonight.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Bob Quit using that military time stuff. You are confusing us, partiularly us Marines. Say the big hand is on…and the little hand is on… Give us a break, will you? :-)

By David O'Brien

August 10, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this

Chuck’s lucky that wind is blowing in hard, or else he’d have given up two homers in that inning. Those balls are being held up so much, it’s unbelievable. And Diaz’s ball to the wall is out on any other night.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

Lee in S. Ga,

I guess the comment was in reference to the missed pop up. Kelly and Chuckie also lost the ball. Suspect it might be the first time Tex has played at this park. Everyone is having problems with the ball tonight. He just made a real nice play by the Philly dugout. And he made a brilliant play in the Met series that saved a couple of runs. And oh, by the way he has 11 RBIs and 4 homeruns in less than 9 games. I’ll take it.

By Niekro35

August 10, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

BravesDave is exactly right. I don’t know what the major league minimum is, but it certainly affords Chuck the opportunity to spend his offseason perfecting his craft. Which sure as hell needs perfecting.

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Lee is S. Ga, N8, no Tex hasn’t really impressed me with his glove yet.

He likely lost that ball in the lights or against the twilight sky (first inning) but where the he11 was McCann? Or James for that matter? That was definitely Tex’s ball but either one of those guys could have bailed him out in that situation.

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

August 10, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this

Cole Hamels has a nice curve…..Watching Chuck??? To be fair, Chuck has shut them down since the 1st….

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this

Did y’all notice how “Stinky” comes out when he knows that SJA is not here? Pitiful.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

Paladin,

I gotcha but GermanBraveFan is in Deutschland and everyone else in the world uses the 24 hour clock. Much easier than using that AM PM stuff. But I have been behaving since you counselled me yesterday.

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

Andruw must have some bat (a hairy flying mamaml) like sense of where the ball is going.I’ve never seen anybody close to him as far as knowing where the ball is going at the crack of the bat ( an elongated wooden instrument used in the game of baseball).

By N8

August 10, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

Hey drool boy

Don’t the Muts have to SCORE off of the “guppies” before they can sweep them?

Or are the rules different in your world?

Face facts. Win, lose, tie or WHATEVER happens in the division/wild card races, your team SUCKS and has severely underachieved this year. A team with that much (ahem) “talent” and that high of a payroll, should have AT LEAST a 15 game lead over the Braves and Phillies.

How’d Pedro do against that A-ball team the other day? Yeah, he’s gonna “help” a LOT. Unfortunately for you and all the other loser Muts fans, he’ll help your opponants more than you. So for that, I thank him, and can’t wait for his return.

Good luck with that.

By GermanBravesFan

August 10, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Bob! I was out in Wuerzburg for dinner tonight at the “Backoefele” - you should go there when you are in W-burg! :-)

By TheNorthernJackAss

August 10, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

You can call me TheNorthernJackAss or you can call me by my real name: Donald Trump. I’m a freakin billionaire and I OWN the school of hard knocks.

I’m thinking of buying the Braves (but at MY price) just so that I can say, Bobby Cox - YOUR’E FIRED.

By Bristo

August 10, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

Chip Caray and Joe Simpson try too hard to make the Braves sound the 1927 Yankees. A little less cheerleading and little more insight into the game please.

By StingerSplash

August 10, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

Looks like James has settled down - finally. This is what makes him so maddening - he can go through a lineup like this and in the blink of an eye get spanked like a bad child without that much of a change in his stuff.

By jbutler

August 10, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

BravesDave…Great point. I can only hope. Hope. That he spent his off-season on his pitching. Surely that would go w/out saying. Right??
Or - maybe if the Braves go to a ballpark named “Home Depot whatever” he can pick up an application before he boards the bus home.

By Ron

August 10, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

Can Chuck Please keep the Damn ball DOWN in the zone instead of belt HIGH!!! Dude this is a hitters paradise, down in the zone!!! Understand James!!! That dude almost hit one out, dont know how it did not go out!!!

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

Paladin, Perhaps this is obvious to everyone here but Stinky is living a double life. He is one of us regular bloggers that posts under duplicate names. Don’t know which one, but I have my suspicions.

By S T I N K Y

August 10, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

Paladin, The AJC censors most of my comments, and most especially when I respond to something the SJA ‘horseman’ posts. I guess they feel sorry for the old boy and his speshal buddies.

By Savannah Guy

August 10, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

DOB: Hmmm…sounds like the old Dotel No tell.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this

Chrisklob I agree. But, pitiful never-the-less.

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this

Yes son it’s true, there was a time when if the Braves got four in the first it was all but over…..sure dad..sure.

By David O'Brien

August 10, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

By the way, the Andruw elbow thing is getting worse and it wouldn’t surprise me if they give serious consideration to the DL if it doesn’t improve soon.

I say this because of the look and tone Andruw had, resigned and almost defeated, very unlike him, when I asked him about his elbow before the game today.

I said, how’s the elbow?

“Not good,” he answered.

I asked him if it hurt when he swung the bat.

“Every time,” he said. “Can’t swing.”

By kg

August 10, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this

I understand Kyle Davies pitched great for KC the other night. It’ll be interesting to see what he does on his next start.

By Ron

August 10, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this

Bravesdave Yeah you are right about James should have spent more time working on at least another pitch instead of working for Lowe’s!!! I remember when they were showing him doing that stuff on Fox Sports South, and I was thinking please tell me he is doing some baseball stuff also!!! James said he does not know who most players in the majors is, well it would be nice if he knew how GOOD Hamels is and we gave him the lead against ONE of the Best pitchers in Baseball!!! Maybe ONE day he will know how good some players are!!! He probably thought the offense scored 4 runs against a SCRUB pitcher!!! I would not be surprised if he thought that!!!

By Bob

August 10, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Good job by James since the 1st. Now get us at least one more inning…preferably two. Need to get our hitting shoes back on now.

By heath

August 10, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

to chuck’s credit, he has retired 13 guys straight…hopefully the boys can go get him some runs!!!

By N8

August 10, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Bristo

“Chip Caray and Joe Simpson try too hard to make the Braves sound the 1927 Yankees. A little less cheerleading and little more insight into the game please.”

Well said. Chip is an idiot. Chuck just threw an 89 MHP fastball inside to Burell, and Chip said “That will keep him honest”

Say what? It’s an 89 mhp fastball.

Chuck James…….INTIMIDATOR. Yeah, as imtimidating as another Chuck. The Leibrandt variety. :-)

By StingerSplash

August 10, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

Will the real Chuck James please stand up? Oh, you are standing. Sorry. (That was just downright mean, I know, and he’s not really that little).

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

And I think he spells things like “special” as “speshal” to muddy the waters. But, anyone who “speaks” to him is, IMO, lower than he is. That’s what he wants. No, that is what he **fantasizes” about.

By ck

August 10, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

Please sit Andruw, he is a horrible hitter. I could hit better than .214! He really, really sucks and it is embarrassing.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

Dave,

It is obvious that Andruw is hurting. He ain’t gonna get better playing him every day and he is hurting the team. He can’t hit and he cannot throw effectively. I wish they would DL him and let Diaz and Harris play for two weeks. Maybe, MAYBE with a couple of weeks off Andruw might come back and finally start producing.

By Ron

August 10, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

Howard can run!!! I knew he could run alright, but he is pretty fast for a big man!!! He can run way faster than McCann!!!

By StingerSplash

August 10, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

Pete just said, “This is the Chuck James you’d like to bottle” after the pride of Mableton recorded his 15th straight out. Does James remind anyone else of Tom Browning?

By N8

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

OK. 3 things.

1. Somebody shut this a-hole up that is yelling at the game, that won’t shut up on the TBS broadcast. What an idiot. Have another beer, moron.

2. Apparently I jynxed the Marlins, by mocking drool boy. Mets 3-2 in the 6th.

3. DOB, If what you are saying about Andruw is true, than that just shows me how much, Bobby is a guy that plays his favorites, instead of trying somebody else that is healthy, or a young guy, that deserves a shot.

Normally, one could use the cliche’ that “75 percent of (enter superstar of choice), is better than 100 percent of the next guy. Like I said NORMALLY. This year is different. 75 percent of Andruw, is…well….is what it is. 75 percent of a guy not hitting very well.

DL the guy, play somebody who is healthy and CAN HELP, then pray that Andruw comes back strong after some rest.

That is unless Bobby just enjoys kicking horses after they’ve died. And judging by his tone when you asked him about Soriano the other day (when we ALL know that Moylan would be and is the best option for the 8th inning), and his stubborness with his “guys”, my guess is that if there was a dead horse kicking contest, Bobby would finish 2nd.

Who would finish 1st, you ask? Well that would be Robert. :-)

By A--ville Ranger

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

chrisklob you’re right about Stinky,here are a few of his other handles aka B* aka S* and this is the shocker aka D* yes it’s true D*.I’m sure they’ll censor this.

By OhMy

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

Mets and Padres are now both leading their games.

By chrisklob

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

Paladin, I agree, pitiful.

DOB, for the life of me I can not understand why BC/Homeboy Upstairs are KNOWINGLY allowing AJ to play when he’s hurt and admits that he can’t swing! Wouldn’t the best course of action be to DL him to get him healthy? If he can get healthy maybe he can start contributing a little more offensively. With the pitching issues that this team is experiencing right now, they need every good bat possible!

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 10, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

Wow, what a wild start followed by great pitching. Ok all you bobby bashers what do you do? What is your game plan for the rest of the game. Speak now or forever hold you peace.

By NO CHOP ZONE

August 10, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

In 2006 the Mets ended it quick for the braves by july 15th….This year we’re gonna make it hurt. We’ll drag the illusion until mid September and then turn it up a notch to pull away and break you your hearts……

By Bob

August 10, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

Chucky either read the blog after the first inning or Chipper and Tex took him into the clubhouse and slapped him around. Good job since the first. Wierd game though….bombs away in the first inning and neither team has a hit since.

By Braves20

August 10, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

Correction - the lack of a third pitch will be Chuck Jame’s problem as long (or as short) a stay as he has in the major leagues.

He may have gotten away with two pitches for a season but now clubs seeing him for the third and fourth time are wacking him because all they have to do is wait for his mediocre fast ball which is usually up in the zone. As another blogger put it - long term a 5th starter at best.

By Savannah Guy

August 10, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy Billy, after a year and half, I can’t believe you haven’t seen the good in denizen SJA. Hey, sometimes he get’s carried away, but we all have. He’s just more “colorful” than most.

Best tread lightly and don’t throw stones. Read his stuff when he’s not about to rip someones head off. Other that deleted expletives (which are harmless $@%$@) you will find a bright, witty and solid blogger of the serious sort. A gig teddy bear that you best not cross. If you don’t see it, you best keep those opinions to yourself, dude.

By S T I N K Y

August 10, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

I’ll tell you what’s pitiful. A supposed ex-marine flyboy who sucks up to a certifiable nutcase like the SJA. Now that’s pitiful.

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

August 10, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

KC,

I think if Chuck had another pitch(Did I hear mention of a slider from the booth?) at least it gives players something else to look for besides a 87-90 MPH fastball with no movement, and a Change-up, BOTH that tend to stay up. A curve would naturally if decent, drop, and lead to more strikeouts. Great job of holding the Phillies scoreless since the 1st! Oh crap, now he is being taken out of the game?? Billy, ok with this move????

By Lee in S. GA

August 10, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

Everyone go you you a strong drink of something here comes the bullpen.

By JB

August 10, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

Ok…c’mon.

DOB,

What is going on with Bobby Cox?

James is pitching well and now a pinch hitter?

Cox’s moves are getting REALLY fishy lately. More so than ever. Is there something going on here that we’re in the dark about?

By Todd

August 10, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this

DOB, If Andruw is disabled, who do you see getting called up as the fourth outfielder? PLEASE don’t say Pete Orr!!

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this

Anyone else thinking that the ridiculous fireworks by both teams in the 1st inning has gotten every hitter completely out of their groove?? The Braves score 4 runs, are hitting everything Hamels throws up there…and now they are swinging at everything early in the count, being overly aggressive. No hits since. Same thing has happened to the Phillies, except they are not really swinging all the early in the count.

Funny how the night turned ugly so quickly…Braves are tied, and the Mets and Padres are winning.

By Ron

August 10, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

Does anybody else get the impression we MAY not score again? Or is it just me? Damn I hope I am wrong but not looking good!!! The Padres NOW have the lead over the Reds and the Damn Mets have the lead over the Marlins!!! Gotta win this game!!!

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

August 10, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

Good grief! Didn’t know Dotel was on the DL! So, Dotel is on the DL, Wickman has forearm issues, and Moylan has a bad back,(And is coming in the 7th???) and Chucky, who has breezed thru the lineup since the first, is out after 93 pitches??? We do still have to play 2 more games with the Phillies, right??? What if this game goes extra innings???

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

Moylan looked a little cocky warmimg up.Will success spoil him ? I hope not.even keel bud,even keel.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 10, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

Ck…your an idiot

By N8

August 10, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

I’m officially “1st” guessing Bobby on this one.

Chuck James retires 16 straight and had less than 100 pitches. Why not squeeze one more inning out of Chuck and bring in Moylan in the 8th?

Fearless leader? More like thoughtless.

By David O'Brien

August 10, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

That snapped an 0-for-25 streak vs. Moylan

By MurphyRules

August 10, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Why is James out of this game?

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Well, at least the Reds tied it up.

Taking James out with 89 pitches after retiring 16 straight?? Questionable.

Let’s hope Moylan is the man again tonight.

By James

August 10, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Did anyone hear C. James on foxsports radio a few months ago?

“Chuck, with all of the technology of video and stats available, do you do any research before games on hitters?”

“No. I just throw it up there. It’s me against them.”

That, folks, is Chuck James in a nutshell. He chooses to go into a war not with a weapon or two, but with his bare fists. Thus, he will always be mediocre at best.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Did y’all hear anything? I didn’t.

By Ron

August 10, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

I cant blame BC for bringing Moylan in this game, and taking out James!!! Mainly because sometimes James will totally lose it sometime at this point or sooner!!! I agree with BC on this move!!!

By David O'Brien

August 10, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

I’ve NEVER seen anything quite like that Chuck James performance: They bat around against him in a four-run first inning, then he’s PERFECT for the next five.

Retired 15 in a row before retiring for the evening.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 10, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy,

All I see is him insulting people and try and get a laugh….I hardly ever see him post any thing relative to the Braves. Just like you and SJA post what you want to post….and I damn will keep posting my opinions…..

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

That hurts. Phils take the lead on an error.

By The Grinch

August 10, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

Wow.

By N8

August 10, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

Tex better hit the daylights out of the ball, because quite frankly, his defense has SUCKED since he’s gotten here. Gold glove firstbasemen have to at least knock that ball down.

Unreal.

Oh, btw…..taking Chuck out and bringing in Moylan didn’t work. BIG surprise there.

DOB, can JS place Bobby on the DL?

By Stephen

August 10, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

Set down 16 straight batters with 7,8,9 coming up and get pulled out of the game. What the hell is bobby cox doing. All of these stupid moves lately.

By Ron

August 10, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

Well, Escobar probably should not have thrown that ball, BUT Tex needs to keep that ball in front of him!!!

By Savannah Guy

August 10, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

Never seen Kelly willing to take a hit at second for a double play. Never.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

This is shaping up to be another game the Braves should not have lost…4-0 lead in the first inning against the Phillies ace. This is going to hurt just as much as the Mets game on Wednesday night and the Houston game last week.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 10, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

Chuck James has rarely been effective past 80-90 pitches so I can understand sort of. Chuck could told bobby he was done.

I think our bullpen is cursed.

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

A-Ville, not sure exactly who you’re talking about. The astericks made it a little too cryptic for this tired blogger to to decypher but I don’t blame you for using them. An accusation such as that could be damaging, especially if untrue.

Lee, yep, I just cracked open a fresh bottle of Knob Creek. Gonna be a long night, and probably long series too.

KC, I was wondering about the slider reference too.

By JasonInMaine

August 10, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

Like I said yesterday…I am not saying Bobby made the wrong call taking Chuck out, but I am saying that every ptching move he makes seems to backfire…

By Ron

August 10, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

Where are all the people at that said we are getting a Gold Glove defender!!! Hell Julio Franco is better than he is defensively and Julio probably would have at least knocked that ball down!!! No doubt Tex has hit great since coming here, but I dont wanna here about his great defense AGAIN!!!

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

Padres back in the lead. Everything we gained with taking 2 out of 3 from the Mets is about to be wiped away.

I can’t take this team anymore. I really can’t. Talk about a roller coaster ride. Take a 4-0 lead in the first, lose on an f’ing error. Not a solid hit in that inning vs. Moylan, yet we somehow find a way to give it up.

By Paladin

August 10, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

I’m leaving the tape machine on and going to bed. At least when I watch it,it will be without commercials.

By Superman

August 10, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

I get so sick or reading comments bashing Bobby Cox. He is damned if he does and damned if he dont to some of yall. He takes out Chuck James after the 6th cuz he has struggled past that point all year. And yall b*** like little school girls. If he would have ran him out in the 7th and he gave up a couple of bombs the same ppl would be screaming Bobbys a moron dont he know chuckie cant pitch into the seventh. IF yall know some damn much about managing major league baseball the why arent yall managing a team. I wouldnt even want yall managing my kids in tee ball.

By N8

August 10, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Another piece of evidence that Chip is an idiot.

Here’s a quote:

“Chipper has not faced Romero before. Teixeira has. He’s worn him out.”

Then when Teixeira comes up to bat:

“Teixeira is 3 for 9 against him with a HR included.”

WOW. If that’s wearing a pitcher out, I was dominant in HS ball. Nobody ever told me that hitting around .333 against somebody (in 9 whopping AB’s) was considered wearing somebody out.

What a frickin homer. Just shut up already. Isn’t there some Derek Lee story you could tell?

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

If Francoeur reaches here, how about pinch hitting for Andruw??? If his elbow is that bad, what good is he?

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

August 10, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

By N8 August 10, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this Tex better hit the daylights out of the ball, because quite frankly, his defense has SUCKED since he’s gotten here. Gold glove firstbasemen have to at least knock that ball down. Unreal. Oh, btw…..taking Chuck out and bringing in Moylan didn’t work. BIG surprise there. DOB, can JS place Bobby on the DL?

N8, that last line is the funniest line of the year!!!! ;)

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

*Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy * I assume that your 9.18 was directed at me. You care to explain that?

By Todd A

August 10, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Every move Cox makes seems to back fire.You could see it coming too, taking out a guy who had retired 16 straight batters to bring in your best reliever in the 7th inning against the bottom of the Phillies order.The depths of Bobby’s ineptness continue to amaze after 16 years.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Frenchy on second but now Andruw is up. Hoping for a miracle.

By KC

August 10, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

**Well… Andruw’s up. The inning will be over momentarily.

By Ron

August 10, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Come on now folks, BC is NOT to blame for THIS game!!! Chuck James USUALLY hits the wall at this point in the game!!! But IF you have to blame someone blame James, he gave it all back to the Phillies when we got 4 runs off of ONE of the Best pitchers in the game!!! You have to get a Great pitcher like that early AND we did!!! Do not blame BC for this game, if your gonna blame somebody blame James!!!

By S T I N K Y

August 10, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Paladin has selective dementia. His buddy SJA has keyboard diarrhea. Together, they make for some forgetable $h!t.

By KC

August 10, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

Highly questionable decision to pull Chucky, with the way he’s been pitching and the bottom of the Phillies order up. WHY???

By Overlord

August 10, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

How easy is to know Andruw is not going to drive jeff in.

PLease do something with this underachiever.

I hope im wrong.

By N8

August 10, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

JasonInMaine

“…I am not saying Bobby made the wrong call taking Chuck out, but I am saying that every ptching move he makes seems to backfire…”

Uh…..Jason? By definition, that would mean he’s making the WRONG decision far too often. :-)

By STephen

August 10, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

Tapper back to the mound, Andruw is such a rally killer.

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

This is the part of the BC method that drives me crazy.If it’s just a baseball decision no way he lets an injured Andruw bat there.He sucks when he’s healthy for gosh sake.

By Lee in S. GA

August 10, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

N8

Agree sometimes gold gloves are overated and given to name and past performances only. If A.J. is hurt why the he!l does Cox not put him on the D.L. The man kills a rally every darn f&($@!g time he is at bat.

By cdinala

August 10, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

boy , i was hoping cox would pinch hit harris for ‘druw. but then again ‘dru made contact which surprised me.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

Another F’ING AWESOME at-bat by Andruw Jones. IN THE HISTORY OF BASEBALL, HAS ONE PLAYER EVER KILLED AN ENTIRE TEAM MORE THAN THIS GUY IS KILLING THE BRAVES THIS SEASON???????? SERIOUSLY, THIS IS PREPOSTEROUS AT THIS POINT. HOW ABOUT PINCH HITTING WITH WILLIE HARRIS THERE IF YOU KNOW THAT ANDRUW JONES’ ELBOW IS USELESS???

Now Cox brings in Yates. This is priceless. This is ample eveidence that Bobby Cox has lost all of his marbles.

By KC

August 10, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

MR. AUTOMATIC OUT, ANDRUW JONES.

I’m dead serious… if I’m manager, Willie Harris would be splitting his time between LF and CF. This would get both Diaz and Harris in the lineup more often, and just as importantly… it would take an automatic-out out of the lineup a few times a week.

Andruw should be starting 3 or 4 times a week. Until he starts hitting, NO MORE than that!!!!!! When Harris starts in center, you can slide him over to left in the late innings, and bring Andruw in for defense late in the game.

By chipdip

August 10, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

CHUCK JAMES FRIGGIN’BLOWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!THE GUY IS WEAK…HE CAN NOT PITCH HIS WAY OUT OF A PAPER BAG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Matt

August 10, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

This outta be interesting…in a bad way

By KC

August 10, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

They showed a stat on Andruw a little while ago… he hits WELL under .100 on 2-strike counts. Andruw Jones is a rally killer right now. He’s the next worst thing to Ryan Langerhanz at the moment.

By Todd A

August 10, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

I know Bobby didn’t just bring in a struggling Tyler Yates to face Ryan Howard when we’re down by a run?I must be imagining this.You have to be kidding.

By Ron

August 10, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

If AJ is not on the DL by Monday then BC should BE blamed for whatever situation AJ is in and he does not end up coming through for us!!! AJ is clearly hurt, and then DOB said he was, and AJ said he is hurt!!! But yet BC throws him back out there!!! Like I said IF AJ is not on the DL by Monday then BC SHOULD be blamed for AJ not coming through for us!!!

This team is a roller coaster!!! James all you had to do was NOT give up 4 runs especially all in the same inning!!! Well I dont know about bringing in Yates again, but we will see I guess!!!

By JB

August 10, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

YATES.

$($&! Yates.

FireBobbyCox.com

I’m starting it up if it’s already not available.

By JasonInMaine

August 10, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this

N8,

Not necessarily…the right move can backfire…

By TrueBlueBravesFan

August 10, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

Why is it I knew that Andruw was going to weakly tap out to the pitcher. He is positively killing this team. He has to go on the DL and hope that he can still help in Post Season. He can kiss is huge contract hopes goodbye anyway he’s not rebounding the way he’s been swinging with that elbow. Boras must be gulping Gaviscon watching these at bats. By the way…..I used to post a lot and been reading but not posting.

By jbutler

August 10, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

Finally!!! Another pitcher who makes Wickman look like he’s in good shape!!

What a strange night. I’m afraid this will haunt the Braves for a long time if this goes any farther south. Why on earth did he pull CJ out?? If it goes to xtra innings - will the mascot pitch? Bobby? Anyone?

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

First batter reaches against Yates, of course.

By N8

August 10, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

It’s about F’n time Yates does something worthwile. If you don’t wanna be hit on the damn arm, then don’t lean out over the damn plate!!!!

Far too few brushback pitches in baseball these days.

Hit the next guy too. It’s not like you can get anybody out Yates. Hell, try and pick him off 1st base and HIT HIM AGAIN!

What’s that? Oh. My bad. I thought I was watching hockey. Sorry.

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 10, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

I directed at a blogger named CK who said he could hit better than AJ.

By Overlord

August 10, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

A comebacker to the pitcher… its official. I hate andruw jones with all my heart.

I guess if we do the math:

RBI - Runners left in scoring position + Runs saved with his glove = -100.

Is there a single fan out there that things AJ a great player?

Please tell me…….

I cant imagen such a bad hitter ask for more money than chipper, smoltz, brian……if i was who pays the checks i would offer him as much as woodward makes……..he does not deserve a penny more than that.

Im just happy he wont be here next year…… and i really hope mets get him, they will instanly become even weaker.

By S T I N K Y

August 10, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

Uh-oh. Paladin fell asleep. Somebody take his teeth out.

By ck

August 10, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

Hey Billy, the Blogger, if you have a problem with something I say, atleast respond with something that shows you have more than a 4th grade education. In the future, it’s “You’re an idiot”, not “your an idiot”. Obviously you are not an educated person, judging by your comments you know very little. Although that was a very deep and impressive response on your behalf. Nonetheless, Andruw still sucks this year, Willie Harris should play in his spot.

By Tim

August 10, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

*if you have to blame someone, blame James… *

You might blame Escobar too. If he puts that ball in his pocket instead of making a bad throw, the 5th run never scores.

Cox was right to take James out. He’s done nothing after the 5th all year. We were lucky to get 6 out of him. Moylan pitched well, just unlucky.

By JB

August 10, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

Superman,

Meet your kryptonite: Bobby Cox.

Stop defending him. There’s just too much of it to defend anymore…his problems never change and he keeps making the same mistakes over and over again.

By Tomahawkin' Again

August 10, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

This whole Andruw Jones thing is getting real old. DL him TONIGHT! How dynamic the Braves offense would be with an outfield of Diaz, Willie and Frenchy? How many more games do you think the Braves would have won with that line-up? Kind of believe we would be in 1st, don’t you think?

By Steve

August 10, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

When your starter has retired or 16 in a row and thrown under 100 pitches on a cool night — and the bottom of the opposing team’s batting order coming up — and it’s only the 7th inning, you don’t bring in your best relief pitcher, especially when your pen is shallow and overtaxed to begin with. You take your chances with your starter who is throwing a sensationally great game since the first inning and save such relief pitcher for the 8th inning with the top of the lineup coming up and hope he can pitch 2 innings.

And why is Andruw Jones batting 6th tonight? I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Bobby Cox is probably without peer as a manager on the macro level. But on the micro level where a problem solving acumen is required, I think he’s absolutely horrible.

By Bill Melater

August 10, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

Finally, I am glad to see the tide turn against Booby, both here and braves.com

Fat A* needs to go!

By Superman

August 10, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

Damn terrible decison on Yates in the 8th. All he did was strike out the side

By G2G

August 10, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox makes some of the dumbest decisions. Why in the hell did he take out CJ? Nice call dumba$$! AJones needs to ride the pine. Put Harris in center and give left to Diaz. We need their bats. AJ is fat, lazy and just does not care anymore. Hopefully Cox will figure things out if we make the post season.

By OhMy

August 10, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

Chucky pulled with 89 pitches - questionable

Moylan in the 7th to face the bottom of the order and the Phillies score- head scratcher

Allowing Andruw to hit with 2 outs and a runner on 2nd trailing in the 7th by a run, knowing he can’t swing by his own admission - unexplainable

Yates pitching in the 8th against the heart of the Phillies order after the way he has been pitching lately and the move actually working for Bobby Cox - priceless

By Bob

August 10, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

Yates does the job. Blame Cox for that too.

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

Chriskolb The encryptions were a joke.That’s not to say that I don’t have my ideas about some of these handles,I do.It’s really funny when somebody uses another name to tell himself (or herself) how witty and wise they are.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

I guess we now know what Tyler Yates role should be…come in while the Braves are trailing. Can’t protect a lead, but can strike out the side while trailing.

I am still trying to get over watching Andruw Jones get owned by Antonio Alfonseca. Disgusting.

By Andy

August 10, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

Andruw’s average is down to .213. He has either the 3rd or 4th worst batting average in all of baseball.

By Ron

August 10, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

chrisklob Dude there was ANOTHER dude that has a name ck!!! So I dont think it was meant to you by that Billy dude!!!

By shemp

August 10, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

How bout Kryptonite as AnBOO’s theme song?

By UGA-BRAVE

August 10, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

GET OVER IT. all you bobby bashers need to get a job. WE SCORE 4 FREKIN RUNS AGAINST ARGUABLY THE BEST LH IN THE N.L. AND WE LOSE. AINT BOBBYS FAULT.

facts are facts this team just spits the bit in close games PERIOD THERE IS NOTHING LEFT TO SAY.

BRAVE-DAVE IF YOU ARE OUT THERE, YOU ARE DEFINTELY RIGHT ABOUT US NEEDING TO PUT TOGETHER A STREAK.

anyone who undestands baseball realizes at some point this season you gotta win more than five in a row.

BRAVE-DAVE, CHASE JUST DONT GET IT.

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

*Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy * thanks for clearing that up. I couldn’t recall saying anything stupid, at least tonight.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox will not pinch hit for Andruw Jones, but he will pinch run for Brian McCann. They are both similarly limited…Andruw Jones cannot hit a lick, and Brian McCann cannot run a lick. I don’t understand the inconsistency.

I also don’t understand why Kelly Johnson would ever swing at that pitch. A guy throws 6 straight balls after entering the game…and KJ swings the bat. What an idiot.

By Ron

August 10, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this

Let me guess!!! We have a runner on 2nd with LESS than 2 outs, and we will end up NOT scoring!!! Have I got that right!!!

By Todd A

August 10, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this

Bad at bat by Kelly.Swung at ball 3.

By Savannah Guy

August 10, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this

chrisklob It is getting to be a very good time for a little Knob Creek. Just poured myself a white Russian that would make the Big Lebowski proud. Hey, as far as the Fly…don’t believe what the reports say. Remember, he didn’t earn his “sleuth” title for being more stupid than frogs. Only time will tell.

Braveheart Do not stop the reporting of the Kermit/Fly mystery. If Fly were here, he would be proud of the reportage. And flattered that his name was spelled correctly in the press. Some (formerly “know” as) dudes would call the Fly “a” idiot.

Just when I thought it was safe to miss the first two innings taking my lovely wife to dine…the game gets all crazy. Now a pitching duel. Who woulda’ thunk it? C’mon bats…

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 10, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this

ck,

You said you could hit better than .214 against MLB pitching…I thought I articulated my opinion quite well. Someone makes an idiotic comment to me he is an idiot.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this

Even the Phillies announcers just said that Kelly Johnson should be fined for swinging at 2-0 in the count after Gordon threw 6 straight balls.

By A--ville Ranger

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

Tough loss,we’ll get’em tomorrow.

By The Grinch

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

**!!!!!!!!!! >-0!!

By Savannah Guy

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

nice call ump…6” off the damn plate to Yunel.

By Ron

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

Well I said it earlier, I figured we would not score again!!! I just had that feeling!!! Wished I was wrong though!!! Why am I not surprised that we lost!!! I just dont know how people can be positive after a game like this!!!

By Bob

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

Bad, bad, loss. Only good news is that Ramierez just wrapped a 2 run double off of Wagner and Fish lead Mets in top of the 9th.

By John

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

Andruw Jones is freaking HURT. Maybe it would be a good idea to pinch hit for him?? How many FREAKING games do the braves have to lose because he can’t come through in the clutch before Bobby pulls him?? If he can’t get the job done bench him!!! I don’t give a rip if he’s a veteran. We need wins, not managerial loyalty!!!!

By Lee in S. GA

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

Marlins 4 Mets 3 in the 9th

By Stark

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

thanks bc

By N8

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

We are now 5-4 since the “TRADE”. Actually 4-4 with Teixeira in the lineup. Since we won 12-4 against the Astros the night Tex showed up in the dugout after the game started.

Mediocre BEFORE the trade. Mediocre AFTER the trade. I guess that’s what mediocre teams do. They play .500 ball REGARDLESS of the situation and circumstances that surround them.

For the record the six-digit man got the benifit of the doubt on 2 HUGE pitches that inning. Like he needed the help against this hapless lineup.

By Del

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

Re. DRU —- I think I’ve got it figured out. Dru has a clause in his contract that says he can not be pulled for a pinch hitter. Like I’ve said —- Bobby is one very stubborn man!!!

By chrisklob

August 10, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guywhere did you and your bride dine this evening? There are more than a few good spots down your way.

By Todd A

August 10, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

Undone by another key error late in the game.This team never seems to catch a break.And that called strike 2 to Escobar was 6 ” off the plate.

By STephen

August 10, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

Kelly johnson swinging on a 2-0 pitch after Flash Gordon hasn’t even thrown a strike yet. Amazing.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

I don’t think I have ever seen a “closer” shut down the opposition by barely being able to throw a strike. Should we call that “effectively wild”??? Two hitters in that inning, Kelly Johnson and Yunel Escobar swung at 2-0 pitches when Gordon could not throw a strike. Incredible.

I don’t care what people say…negative, bandwagon?? fan, whatever…I have been consistent with N8 in saying all season that this team is not a playoff team. They have yet to prove it. A team that closes down a game after putting a 4-spot on the opposition’s ace in the first inning is a playoff team. A team that loses 5-4 after same, is not a playoff team.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this

At least Wagner just blew the save for the Mets. Too bad he didn’t blow a save against the Braves. I guess we have discussed that enough.

By Wolfpack Man

August 10, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

I am not blaming the home plate umpire for this loss, but both the 2-1 pitch to Willie and especially the 2-1 pitch to Escobar were HORRIBLE calls.

The ball (or strike) to Yunel was at least 6” outside. Terrible call and an At-bat changer in the most important at-bat of the game.

Also, Bobby Cox has got to questioned on his handling of the bullpen recently. I know Chuck has struggled, but I think with the way he was pitching, you have to question the decision to remove him.

By JasonInMaine

August 10, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

Wow, that 2nd strike on Esco was 8 inches outside..

There goes the momentum from the NY series…back to 4.5 out and 3rd place…

This team needs to make a statement and go on a run…it’s getting late to gain a game and then lose it the next night…

But, that’s what .500 teams do and that’s what we are since our 16-9 start…

By NCBravesFan

August 10, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

Billy Wagner just blew a save. Hopefully the Fish can close the door.

By Bob

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

N8,

Actually we are 5-4 in the 9 games that Tex has played, not 4-4.

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

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

N8,

after telling you, that you had the best line of the year, I gotta give you some grief on Chip. Man, you are tougher on him than Cox! And trust me, Chip doesn’t make nearly as decisions that make one scratch your head. That pitch to Burrell was high and tight! So it was 89 instead of 98, it still made a point that far inside. And Tex hitting a homer and having 3 hits in 9 ab’s is pretty darn good if you ask me against a reliever.

As I said to people a few days ago, try talking throughout a 3 hour game sometime, and see how smart you sound. There are folks that hate Joe, Skip, Chip, and Pete even(though less seem to hate him) but, listen to the “Hawk” for a few games, or some of the truly horrible “homers” out there, and you would beg for Chip to broadcast. There..now that I have made you see the light, and you now will be a big Chip cheerleader, lets go back to praising Bobby Cox, über manager…

By Lee in S. GA

August 10, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

if anyone cares preseason Jets 31 Falcons 16

By Ron

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

Tim You MAY can blame Escobar, BUT Tex HAS to keep that ball in front of him, he has to knock that damn ball down!!! Well if your gonna blame Escobar, then Blame Tex ALSO!!!

By Andy

August 10, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

This team isnt any better since the Tex trade.

By Bob

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

Mets lose. Too bad we did not take advantage of it.

By Overlord

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

Tomahawkin i would say AJ has been on at least the bad end of 15 games clearly…… and i can recall any GWRBI from his bat.

We are all tired of it, what i dont get is…….. JS and BC make a living from this, they should be more stressed then we are about this AJ thing, how come they keep putting him in and batting 5th and 6th. And as you said what it makes it 1000000 times worse is the fact yo half a great player to replace him, is not like 5th spot of pitching staff……… the guy is there sitting on the bench……

Im not a baseball expert but i sure know about this sport and i cant think of an answer that makes sense to this question we all have.

By JasonInMaine

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

I can’t believe the Braves’ offensive stats…it appears every time we have runners in scoring position and less than 2 out in late inngs…we can’t score

By Andy

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

Both pitches Kelly Johnson swung at i think were balls. So he should have walked.

By tbo

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

FIREBOBBYCOX.com This old fart needs to go. He makes me want to puke.

By N8

August 10, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

Yeah. OK. I wasn’t paying attention. I thought Alfonseca was still in the game in the 9th.

Forgot that they have Gordon. Didn’t Flash face Julio in his rookie year?

Only way this team is going to the playoffs, is if they individually buy tickets.

Great. The Mets are gonna lose too. Then all the homers will still say: “Look! we’re STILL only 3.5 back. We’re still in this thing”

Yeah. Right.

Thank GOD we didn’t trade away a bunch of future stars (allegedly) to “make a run at it” with this sorry sack of ball-players. That would’ve been foolish.

What’s that?

Oh.

Never mind.

By Ron

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

That damn Strike 2 to Escobar was on the other side of the chalk on the left hand batters box!!! Wow!!! Escobar got screwed in that at bat!!! Escobar HAD to swing at the ball that he hit right to Gordon!!! Maybe the ump is with the MOB or something and could not let the game go any longer!!! That WAS ridiculous!!!

By Tomahawkin' Again

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

Final from Shea-Fish 4, Muts 3. Not going to get that many chances like tonight, jumping 4-0 on one of the best pitchers in the game and not being able to close the deal. Tonight really hurts. But, hey what to worry, we have Cormier pitching tomorrow. Oh. No.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this

Well, the Mets lose another heartbreaker. Tough guy Billy Wagner has the Fish do to him something the Braves could not accomplish…get a bunch of baserunners and actually drive them in.

Maybe the Phillies are the team to beat in this division. They are 3 games out, winning through all sorts of adversity. The Phillies are 20-14 since July 1. The Braves are 18-17 since July 1. The Mets are 18-18. Remember that the Phillies lost Chase Utley. Enough said.

The Braves had better come back and win the next two in this series. With Cormier on the mound, how likely is that?

By Savannah Guy

August 10, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

“All I see is him (SJA) insulting people and try and get a laugh….I hardly ever see him post any thing relative to the Braves. Just like you and SJA post what you want to post….and I damn will keep posting my opinions…..”

That’s right Billy. You go ahead and keep posting your opinions. That’ll show ‘em. This is no place for laughing and other such nonsense. Right. Got it.

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

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

Yates just set a career high in games pitched, and it’s August 10th…gee, think that is why he hasn’t had much after those 5 games in 6 years??? He was great tonight though. Watch Bobby run him out there the next 2 games as well, then say Yates said he isn’t tired, and pitch again, and again….

By joebrave

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

Well well look who’s back!!!The Tower of Power tooo damn sweet to be Sour!!!And I see all the Brave @ssed scumbitches,and peckerchompin sockcuckers,come around when a couple of Joebrave’s friends are’nt here. Now good ol Joebrave ain’t one to pick no fight,no wait a minute Oh HE!!yes I am!!!!So here’s to all you nutswallows out there Shut your Pie holes talk about Braves Basesball and not someone’s Mother,or prexual seference,or Joebrave will drop by and bring you a Present of $hitty proportions!!!

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

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

Let me get this straight in my head. James gives up four runs in the first and stays in the game. He then proceeds to retire sixteen straight and gets pulled after six innings and 93 pitches all while cruising through the last five innings. The bullpen immediately coughs up a run and Cox is looking like a total Jack a.s.s. , Kelly Johnson’s at bat in the ninth was brutal. He swung at ball three and ball four , gave the Phillies an out and prevented the Braves from scoring the tying run without the benefit of a hit. So , does anyone wonder why I AM SO FRIGGING NEGATIVE ALL THE TIME ????? Between the blowpen and Bobby Cox , I’m not sure which has cost the Braves more games this season. M-E-D-I-O-C-R-I-T-Y defines the 2007 Braves.

By bill

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

It just wasn’t meant for the Braves to win. C. James did great after first but I still blame this loss on him. If he’s not going to come up with another pitch and start studying the players, get rid of him. Put AJ on DL and bring up Brandon Jones. At least the Mets lost.

By MrC

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

The top 4 Reasons the Braves Lost:

and the # 1 reason the Braves lost……

Offense was shut out for 8 innings

By Todd A

August 10, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this

Here’s a novel concept;I know it is foreign to our esteemed manager:how about leaving a guy in the game when he’s dealing? Doesn’t matter if it’s a starter or reliever, Bobby still subscribes to the square peg in the round hole theory.And this one inning crap has burned out our bullpen all year by using 3-5 relievers every night.Let a guy pitch 2-3 innings if he’s getting people out.If he goes that long, give him a day off in between outings. Is that so difficult to understand?

By JD

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

The funny thing is that they finally pitched tonight. Yeah the first hurt, but if they gave up 4 earned runs (the one off Moylan was unearned) every night from now to the end of the season, I’d take that. This one is on the offense. I almost wish BC would have put in Soriano to pitch batting practice just so I wouldn’t sit around wondering what might have been…again!

By Bob

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

I try to be as positive as I can, but clearly Andruw needs to go on the DL. I can’t remember the last time he got a real big game changing/winning hit. He is killing us in critical situations and he is not getting any healthier. Put him on the DL, and we would get him back by the end of August. Then maybe after some rest and maybe a visit to John Smoltz’s psychiatrist he can come back and help this team. Right now he is a disaster.

By Tim

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

All you negative b*******, can p** off. I’m sick of you LOSERS. You all remind me of my dad. GO BE SOME OTHER TEAMS’ FANS.

By bigboi

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

Kelly Johnson needs to ride the pine and put Harris at second. I can’t believe six balls were thrown in a row, the guy couldn’t throw a strike and Kelly swings at what would’ve been the 7th straight ball, make him throw strike!!!!! You learn that in little leauge.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

Supposed to be 83 and sunny tomorrow with minimal wind. You can bet the balls will be jumping out of that stadium a little more than they were tonight. Not a good meteorological forecast with Mr. Cormier on the mound. Hey, like DOB mentioned earlier, maybe Cormier’s wife is a pitching coach and she got him turned around over the All Star break.

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

Bill Melater Don’t think because I have some criticisms of some of BC’s moves I’m joining any personal attacks on him.It’s too bad you can’t make fair comments without getting mixed in with the bs.There’ll be no torch walk with the mob for this villager.I have all the respect in the world for the man.

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

August 10, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

Let me redux that last post of mine….

Yates just set a career high in games pitched, and it’s August 10th…gee, think that is why he hasn’t had much after those 5 games in 6 games??? He was great tonight though. Watch Bobby run him out there the next 2 games as well, then say Yates said he isn’t tired, and pitch again, and again….

By NCBravesFan

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

N8 And others … was the plan to not lose another game from here on out or something? I mean, there’s no shame in losing to Cole Hamels. Dude is money, and we played ‘em tough.

Did you guys think the Phils were gonna roll over or something, as if the crown was already ours?

If they play crappy tomorrow and Sunday, let’s talk. But geesh, some of you guys need to start an ant farm or something … you need a distraction.

By Todd A

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

Was Eric Gregg behind the plate tonight?

By chrisklob

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

N8, you’ve been saying that this is a mediocre team all season. Why do you get so upset when they lose? Shouldn’t you expect a loss about 50% of the time?

It seems to me that instead of complaining about a loss you should be saying “I told you so”.

By Steve

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

The Braves announcer was saying that you give the green light to Johnson in that situation. I didn’t agree with him then, and I certainly don’t agree with him now after Johnson swung at what was obviously would have been the 7th straight ball thrown by Gordon. But I wouldn’t have agreed with him even if Johnson had hit a 2 run homerun.

Gordon’s thrown 6 straight balls and he’s obviously struggling. Why let him off the hook by giving the green light? Andruw Jones was not due up for another 7 batters, so the smart way to play it would have been to make him throw a strike to Johnson.

When you’re behind in a game in the top of the 9th inning, best to try and get base-runners. A walk to Johnson would have meant the tying run to 2nd and the winning run to first with 0 out.

With 2 outs, you let him swing away in that situation. But not with 0 outs and Andruw Jones out of the way, no way imo.

I’m an old New York Yankess fan. I was a big fan of the way Billy Martin managed games, though certainly he was plenty destructive in other ways. Anyway, I can’t imagine that Billy Martin would not have given Johnson the take sign in that situation.

By supa

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

C’mon Cincinnati! Rally against Trevor Hoffman!

By Ron

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

N8 Well 95% of the people ON this blog said it was a Great trade!!! Me and a FEW others did not like the trade!!! But of course IF we can resign Tex I think the deal is good for us, but really when is the last time we resigned somebody that is REAL good on offense that we traded for? So I doubt we will resign him THAT is why I thought that it was a bad trade!!! And people BASICALLY called me a damn fool!!! Well WHO is the DAMN fools NOW!!! Listen I aint saying we cant make the playoffs, because I STILL think we can win the Wildcard EVEN with this .500 team!!! But really we need to be scoreboard watching at the Wildcard standings NOT the East standings!!! A .500 Record can maybe win the Wildcard, but PLEASE nobody say we are better than a .500 team, Because we are NOT!!!

By uga-brave

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

BLAH, BLAH, BLAH, same old same old just a different day.

BRAVE-DAVE, i really believe we are the only PRAGMATIC fans on this site. IT is unfathomable that we score 4 in the first then give up four in the first. then get just one hit in the NEXT 8 INNINGS.

SOMEONE UPSTAIRS HAS DECIDED TO MESS WITH US. seriously cant remember a stretch of games that has tested our mettle like this.

I KNOW i am not the only person on this site whose wife thinks we are all crazy. CANT TAKE IT ANYMORE.

GOD FORBID IF THE DAWGS DEFENSE IS GOING TO BE AS BAD AS I THINK IT IS, BETWEEN THE BRAVOS MISSING THE PLAYOFFS AND THE DAWGS BEING mediocre, THERE ARE NOT ENOUGH CIGARS IN CUBA OR NOT ENOUGH BOTLLES OF PINOT.

once again THE BRAVES LOSE ANOTHER GAME WHEN THEY SCORE 6 0R LESS. RUNNING RECORD NOW 23-48

By joebrave

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

Now for more pleasantries,Hello to Lew,Paladin,SJA,and others…To Stinky,NCZ,METSFOOL,and all you other toilet heads,you guys must be Mike Vick Fans,damn sure act like a bunch of idiots…Nice effort by C.J. tonight after the first but that boy needs another pitch.and that hardheaded sumbitch Andruw Jones dammit will that boy ever learn?????sumbitch could’nt hit his way out of a doughnut sack!!!!

By Todd A

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

FWIW, my Eric Gregg comment was sarcasm, for those thinking about responding with little or no sense of humor.

By chipdip

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

the braves are done…….try for next year.

By Tim C

August 10, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

DOB Why don’t the Braves put Andruw on the DL? It just doesn’t make sense why they don’t.

By joebrave

August 10, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

Here’s a novel approach You @ss holes that want Bobby Cox (who just happens to be a HOF manager)fired you Brave @ssed ba$tards go fire him yourselves!!!

By supa

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

blown save for Billy Wagner and Trevor Hoffman on the same night. We might not lose any ground to Mets or Padres. Of course, we lost a game to Phils, but we can make that up tomorrow.

By BravesDave

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

Reds tie it in the 9th.

By Ron

August 10, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

This team is soooo damn backwards, that Moylan will come in tomorrow and give up nothing and Yates will end up losing the game tomorrow after throwing a good inning!!! If THAT happens, then this is NOT our year, but for SOME reason I believe something like that WILL happen!!!

By Bob

August 10, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

I hear a lot about how Bobby should not have used Yates in the 8th even though it worked tonight. If James had pitched the 7th and got hit hard, he would have been chastised for that too. Lets see, if he had pitched Soriano in the 8th he would have been torched too. If he had used Mahay, he would have been criticized for pitching him too much too. Lets see, could have used Oscar again, but then he has pitched an awful lot too. If we had put in Wickman, he would have been questioned on why he put in his closer in the 8th. I guess he could have used Acosta, but then I am sure a significant portion of the blog would have asked why we would put a new pitcher into a game that was still close. Maybe he could have used Moylan…oh wait, he had already been used. Boy it is easy to sit on the couch and manage while munching Doritos.

By Savannah Guy

August 10, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

* joebrave* There you are…roarin’ back. Where the &%#$ you been? Missed ya. Caution: the trolls should be out…even though the mutts lost. So don’t hurt ‘em too bad. Second thought…go ahead and break bad on thier arses.

By uga-brave

August 10, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

EVER REMEMBER THE GIRL IN HIGH SCHOOL, the one, the Tease, THE ONE WE ALL LOVED. THE ONE THAT MADE US ALL FEEL WELL YOU KNOW.

WELCOME TO BEING A FAN OF THE BRAVES IN 2OO7.

By MEB

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

That strike two to Escobar was so far outside it was in stinkin’ Jersey!

Lance Cormier vs. Adam Eaton tomorrow night. This team really needs a big showing from Lance. Lets get the next two from the Phillies and take a day off and come home to HOT’lanta!

GO BRAVES!!!

By joebrave

August 10, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

i said when Romero was dfa by Boston Atl should have gotten him,and Who in the blue he11 screwed up Wil Ledezma,and why is Royce Ring not in the Show???? one has to wonder what is next???? Oh Yeah!Before any of you accuse me of taking up SJA”s battles let me assure you He and I have not always seen Eye to Eye,However from a Navy Vet and a desert storm tours to another Veteran,I have a problem with pukes who have no clue what his or my own Mother went through when we had our tours…so to that end Ron Roberts you can kis my hairy @SS,you sonsabitch!!!

By A--ville Ranger

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

uga-brave This game was unfathomable unless you’ve watch much baseball. disappointing ? yes aggravating ? sure, but unfathomable…no way…it happens all the time. night all.

By joebrave

August 10, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

Good ol Joebrave been workin really hard lately,Thanks for the caution SavannahGuy,I am NOt NOT wottied about some New York $hitty sess pool dwelling pecker chomper!!! The Mutts SUCK and they Always will!!!!

By Savannah Guy

August 10, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this

chrisklob We didn’t go anywhere special, just the neighborhood mexican place. It was good though…we both love the stuff. You are right about good food here in Savannah, but the best places are mostly the ones off of the tourist maps. Truth be known, I go to Atlanta so much I’ve become completely spoiled on all the good restaurants there. Per capita, Atlanta rivals anyone in the country in my opinion.

Tough loss tonight. A move this way or that and we…ahh, nevermind. That’s baseball. We will get’em tomorrow. Pressures on. I think I’ll have another rooskie.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this

This here baseball is a funny game isn’t it. The Braves roller coaster continues. Look at the Detroit Tigers…from all world to a team that resembles the Titanic. Their pitching for the last month actually makes the Braves look like a staff of Cy Youngs. The Red Sox 14.5 game lead is now down to 5 after they blew a 5-1 lead in the 8th against the Os. Billy Wagner and Trevor Hoffman got taken to the woodshed tonight. The Brewers are falling faster than the Dow Jones. The Indians can’t hit, but then neither can the Dodgers. Strange game this baseball.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this

Bob, I hear what you are saying regarding Bobby being second-guessed no matter what move he made there with Chuck James coming out of the game. It shows how limited good options are out of the bullpen right now. It seems any pitcher can blow up at any point. I don’t think Moylan blew up tonight. He really didn’t make any glaring mistakes.

I just think that most people looked at what James was doing and said to themselves “this is guy is pitching better than he has at any point this season and has has only thrown 89 pitches and he is facing the bottom of the order in the 7th, why take him out????”

By A--ville Ranger

August 10, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this

joebrave for gosh sake man I’ve never known a real combat vet who’d use his service to make such a trivial point.

By Lee in S. GA

August 10, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

BravesDave

You are right all talk about the Mets and Braves. No one give the Phillies their due. I am no fan of their’s by no means but do not count these guys out. The Braves cannot put tgether a winning streak. Same ole, same ole Mets lose Braves lose, Mets win. Braves win except when we play one another. It is time to put together a winning streak and put both the Mets and the Phillies in their place.

By UGA-BRAVE

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

DOB, IN THE PUMPKINS WORDS ” WE ALL are JUST A RAT IN A CAGE”

just wish the man upstairs could spare us some of the drama. like smoltzie said would rather 10-0.

BRAVE-DAVE SAID IT, AND I HAVE BEEN SECONDING THE MOTIONS,CONSISTENTLY INCONSISTENT.

FOR CRYING OUT LOUD WIN MORE THAN 3 IN A FRICKIN ROW.

By Todd A

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

“This team is soooo damn backwards, that Moylan will come in tomorrow and give up nothing and Yates will end up losing the game tomorrow after throwing a good inning!!! If THAT happens, then this is NOT our year, but for SOME reason I believe something like that WILL happen!!!”

Ron, I agree completely.This team doesn’t seem to get any breaks.If they make an error, the runner almost always seems to score.If the Braves get a late clutch hit, the bullpen, in turn, gives the lead back.Too many 0-2 and 1-2 mistakes left over the middle of the plate by our pitching staff, much of it late in games.

This team may very well turn things around and get on a run(I can’t see it happening now at this juncture), but, this team doesn’t seem to have any magic.It doesn’t have the feel of a team of destiny.Take yesterday’s game for instance:Willie’s heroics were necessary because of yet another late inning monumental meltdown by the pen, in a game that was seemingly safe in the bag.

The only thing that gives me any shred of hope about this team is the way St. Louis backed into the playoffs last year after we beat Houston.They had three 10 game losing streaks,and barely finished above .500, yet they won a WS.But their staff got hot at the right time.

By Bob

August 10, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this

BravesDave,

I absolutely agree with you. That decision can absolutely be questioned. Frankly, I think I would have tried to get a little more out of Chuck too. But, it is not a slam dunk decision based on Chuck’s track record.

I have no problem with criticism of Cox. I don’t get some of his decisions either, especially as related to Andruw. But, it does get old that whatever he does he is getting blasted. Go back to the blog and see how many people went crazy when Yates came in. How many came back on and gave some credit. Zero.
The very same people who blast Soriano every day were the same folks who were annointing him the Closer of all closers in May and June. Some on here have referred to this “hapless lineup”. Excuse me…how dumb is that?

The Braves have serious problems with pitching. Then again, so do the Phillies and the Mets. It is going to be a slugfest to the end. Right now, at least we have two very good starters. I don’t think either the Phillies or Mets can say that.

I guess I just get frustrated by inane coments from some folks. Be critical all you want, but don’t be irrational.

By David O'Brien

August 10, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

Just noticed Real Footballer’s 3:21 p.m. post (it just went there when I hit refresh, for some reason). Now that made me smile. Funny stuff, man. Love the eclectic wits on this here blog, yes I do.

Uh, that was a rough loss. Andruw really is hurting them offensively. And Chuck … how can a guy be that brilliant for five innings, and that brutal for the first (although Hamels did the same, Hamels wasn’t staked to a 4-0 lead _ Chuck was).

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

UGA, what is unfathomable is the Braves inconsistency. We all watch every night, and every night we see a different team. One night they put everything together - pitching, hitting, defense - and look like the best team in the NL. The next night they make errors in key spots, swing at everything the opposing pitcher throws before the ball leaves his hand, give up pinch hit grand slams, and look downright terrible.

I will keep saying over and over, this team is not a playoff team until they show that they can win 6-7 games in a row and improve their position in the standings. They have been no closer than 3 games out of first place since July 22. That was 18 games ago. That is a problem.

By David O'Brien

August 10, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

Hey folks, the Phllies are 8-2 in their last 10 home games and 31-19 in their last 50 home games. They do know how to win here, no doubt about that.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

All we have to do is look at the Braves last 11 games. This is one of their better stretches of the season, as they have gone 7-4 over the 11 games.

Dig deeper…

The 4 losses over this stretch…

12-11 extra inning loss to the Astros where Soriano gives up a pinch hit grand slam to Mike Lamb with a 9-5 lead.

A 9-2 loss to the Rockies where Smoltz pitches poorly. A game most Braves fans would expect to win.

A 4-3 loss to the Mets where Soriano strikes again in a game where the Braves lead 3-1 late and could not score with the bases loaded and none out.

Tonight, a 5-4 loss after scoring 4 in the first against one of the best pitchers in the NL.

Every game winnable. This could have been an 11-game winning streak where the Braves took over the division lead. Instead, they were 4.5 out when it started and they are 3.5 out now.

Inconsistent.

By Bob, Journalist

August 10, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

It’s good to have Andruw back in the lineup … at least he’s consistent.

Such things happen but that was as disappointing a loss as we’ve had, excluding the Soriano, Wickman meltdowns.

Goodnight all!

By Billy, The Blogger Formerly Know as Billy

August 10, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

N8,

Your calling this line up hapless? You are getting annoited the second idoit of the night.

By Ron Roberts

August 10, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

So DO’B…if Andruw Jones will openly tell you that his elbow hurts everytime he swings, then riddle me this…

…what the #%$! is he doing still in te lineup???

Seriously, until this season, I’ve had very little reason to question the managerial methods of Bobby Cox, but this season, the questionable decisions are mounting up.

You have two outfielders sharing left field with averages over .320, and you choose to use only one of them per game while you continually start a .212 hitting center-fielder.

Now, I could see giving this Gold Glove, power-hitting super star the benefit of the doubt for a good while, but once his mini-spurt around the All-Star break died down and his elbow ailment became an issue, he’d be riding pine, contract year be damned.

He’s gonna have to sign a 1-year deal anyhow, to prove himself after this disastrous season, anyhow, but more importantly, the team needs better offense from his spot in the lineup. The guy’s absolutely killing this team.

When sports writers are saying what Braves’ fans are saying - that if the Braves had a CF hitting .260 or better, we’d be in first place - then it’s not just in the minds of fanatical Atlanta Braves’ supporters.

Why he wasn’t pinch-hit for two nights ago is beyond me. Why he still shows up in the lineup is beyond me. Why he’s not DL’ed in deference to Willie playing his spot til his elbow gets better and he and Diaz provide their “hits for average” offensive spark… beyond me.

My God. We need a good start out of Lance Cormier to keep this road trip a positive one.

By UGA-BRAVE

August 10, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this

BRAVE-DAVE HOW WAS THAT BATCH PARTY LAST WEEK.

dude i dont no which is worse watching the mkt. meltdown or the braves. HEY IN ALL SERIOUSNESS i worked at goldman sachs from 92 to 02 when nasdaq spreads were still doable. watched the dot com bubble.

BUT WHAT WE ARE NOW ABOUT TO EXPERIENCE IS NUCLEAR . GET OUT UNLESS THE FED COMES TO THE RESCUE. I AM SERIOUS THIS IS A BUNCH OF BANKERS!!!!! WHISTLIING BY THE GRAVEYARD

By bruce

August 10, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

Dave,

It seemed to me that both pitchers were not warmed up properly tonight… maybe the pre-game on-field event (Vuk’s induction into wall of fame) changed their routine/timing or the cold wind/night… just were not ready.

Was fun to watch… actually sat between two nice Philly fans… was refreshing change… was at all three at shea… best Philly fans tonight than any of my other six or so experiences. Think I got wind-burn… had flat tire on Jersey Pike after running over debris, thankfully not raining while changing tire. Thanks, Bruce

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

After a loss to the Florida Marlins on June 4, the Braves fell to 32-25, seven games over .500. They have never been able to get more than 7 games over .500 since. They have been bouncing back and forth within that zone since that point in the season.

If they continue on this pace, they will not make the playoffs. An 84-68 team will not make the playoffs, unless it is the Central Division winner.

By Todd A

August 10, 2007 11:46 PM | Link to this

If Cox leaves Chuck in the game, Escobar could have very easily made the same error, and the end result could have been the same. But, say Chuck goes 7 strong innings(maybe even 8, who knows?), and the Braves prevail against Cole Hamels, it could have been the shot in the arm to get this kid over the hump, and maybe even the shot in the arm this team needs to get on a long winning streak.If Chuck was going to stretch his performance into the late innings and give his pen a much needed reprieve, this was the night to do it:he was matching zeros with Hamels, he had only thrown 89 pitches, and it was a cool night.Not to mention, he had the bottom of the Phillies order coming up.Of course, Cox being Cox, he goes strictly by the book.He takes out a hot pitcher, the Phillies get new life, and win on an unearned run.Is it Sept 2008 yet?

By tyyosh

August 10, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand the second guessing about James leaving the game. It was hitting-related. Tie game on the road, 9 outs left, playing a potent offensive team and division rival in their bandbox of a park. If you don’t pinch-hit for the pitcher leading off the 7th inning in order to try and start something, then when do you?

By Josh C

August 10, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

Just read the blog and saw exactly what I thought I’d see. Everybody on here is jumping ship again. I swear I hope none of you own stock, you’d have been committed two weeks ago. Here’s a clue for you: NO baseball team is consistent. None. Anywhere. I’m not willing to take the time, but I wish someone would take the top 5 records in baseball this year, then take out their best month. I’m guessing you’d have close to a .500 team. We all said before this trip that 3-3 would be just fine, thank you. Split the next two and we did just that. This game was 5-4, the deciding run scoring on a poor decision by our uber-talented ROOKIE shortstop who likely would have saved the run by putting the ball in his pocket. Lesson learned, hopefully, but Edgar doesn’t make that throw. Just think when he gets back the lineup is instantly upgraded and KJ or Yunel are pinch-hitting every night.

Our problem, as most have noted, has NOT been record vs. the elite- it’s been the record vs. the poor. I truly believe that this enhanced lineup will pound the likes of the Nats, Reds, etc. We could use a starter, but failing that we got enough offense to win games. Four runs off Cole Hamels? Chuck retiring sixteen straight? Moylan gave up the herdest-luck run you’ll ever see. All is OK, I think we’ll go on our tear after this series. Let’s win one of two to stay afloat.

Guess I’m a “homer” who won’t admit the team is “inconsistant” (not to be corn-fused with inconsistent) huh?

By Josh C

August 10, 2007 11:48 PM | Link to this

Just read the blog and saw exactly what I thought I’d see. Everybody on here is jumping ship again. I swear I hope none of you own stock, you’d have been committed two weeks ago. Here’s a clue for you: NO baseball team is consistent. None. Anywhere. I’m not willing to take the time, but I wish someone would take the top 5 records in baseball this year, then take out their best month. I’m guessing you’d have close to a .500 team. We all said before this trip that 3-3 would be just fine, thank you. Split the next two and we did just that. This game was 5-4, the deciding run scoring on a poor decision by our uber-talented ROOKIE shortstop who likely would have saved the run by putting the ball in his pocket. Lesson learned, hopefully, but Edgar doesn’t make that throw. Just think when he gets back the lineup is instantly upgraded and KJ or Yunel are pinch-hitting every night.

Our problem, as most have noted, has NOT been record vs. the elite- it’s been the record vs. the poor. I truly believe that this enhanced lineup will pound the likes of the Nats, Reds, etc. We could use a starter, but failing that we got enough offense to win games. Four runs off Cole Hamels? Chuck retiring sixteen straight? Moylan gave up the hardest-luck run you’ll ever see. All is OK, I think we’ll go on our tear after this series. Let’s win one of two to stay afloat.

Guess I’m a “homer” who won’t admit the team is “inconsistant” (not to be corn-fused with inconsistent) huh?

By Chop Chop

August 10, 2007 11:50 PM | Link to this

I like how some people think they’re driving the “negative impressions of the 2007 Braves” bandwagon. Jesus Christ, dudes. Get a clue. Do you read this blog? Do you see the plethora of negative thoughts being expressed here by a myriad of denizens? The Braves don’t look like a playoff team to me. I’ve said that before, but I don’t have to keep hammering away at it night after night.

As Bill Parcells famously said, “You are what you are.”

This is what the Braves are, and that’s probably not going to be good enough. If it is good enough, great.

By UGA-BRAVE

August 10, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this

BRAVE-DAVE been with you all season. DOB to use a tired quote they are what they are, good, and at times real good.

BUT THEY ARE NOT CONSISTENLY GREAT. NOT THAT U HAVE TO BE TO WIN IN THE N.L. BUT I HAVE TO AGREE WITH N8 AND BRAVE ABOUT THIS TEAM. OH BY THE WAY BUY OCT. 100 PUTS ON BAER STEARNS.

By BravesDave

August 10, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this

Sorry, that should have been “An 84-78 team will not make the playoffs.”

The bachelor party was pretty good, UGA. A little too dirty for my tastes, but the bachelor dealt with that, not me. Overall, a good night of drinking in NYC. No good steaks, though. Hung out at a place called Local right across the street from Madison Square Garden, rooftop bar, private room, all the typical stuff.

I am with you on the market. A lot of this has to do with the Fed running up interest rates for the past few years. Worrying about non-existent inflation while putting serious strain on the mortgage/credit markets. They should have started pulling back on the rate over a year ago.

By 2007 BRAVES

August 11, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

I am what I am and be what I be, why are you still surprised what you see of me?

By UGA-BRAVE

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

WELL no offense josh but in the words of those caveman “WHAT”?

DO YOU REALLY BELIEVE IT IS ALRIGHT TO GO 3-3 ON this roadtrip.

man you and CHASE should keep eating the same peyote. at some point i will bet everybody on this thread, if we dont have a 6 game winning streak we will have to listen to GAY CHIP, WHO WAS A DELTA TAU DELTA,AT UGA, AND THOSE OF US WHO WENT TO UGA KNOW WHAT THAT PLACE WAS ABOUT, do the playoffs on tbs.

By BravesDave

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

Hey Josh C, here you go…

Boston Red Sox monthly records from April on: 16-8, 20-8, 13-14, 15-12, 5-4.

Yankees: 9-14, 13-15, 16-11, 19-9, 8-2.

Indians: 14-8, 19-11, 15-13, 12-14, 5-5.

Detroit: 14-11, 16-12, 16-10, 15-12, 2-7.

Angels: 15-11, 18-11, 17-9, 12-12, 4-4.

Mets: 15-9, 19-9, 12-15, 13-14, 5-4.

Now the Braves…16-9, 14-14, 13-15, 13-13, 5-4. What you will notice is that all of the top teams have had at least two and sometimes three excellent months. Unfortunately, the Braves only had one this season. And that is the story of the season.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 11, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

TheSouthern.JackAss@yahoo.com—there’s a working email address for any of you pukes (all those who think they can say whatever they like to whoever they like without any accountability, or repercussions) with enough guts to email TheJackAss with a time, and a place of your choice…TheJackAss has the time, and the means to oblige…so give it a try…I want to see if you have the balls to say some of the cowardly $#!t that you’ve said here on this blog to my face…you worthless pieces of dog$#!t!…

By UGA-BRAVE

August 11, 2007 12:26 AM | Link to this

hey brave-dave ITS CALLED CDO’S COLLATERIZED DEBT OBLIGATIONS.

BAER STEARNS IS THE #1 originator of those debt obligations. when rates were going down they rolled out more major bogus loan thans anyone else.

NOW OF COURSE THEY SOLD THOSE LOANS WHEN THE CREDIT SPREAD WAS RIGHTEOUS. ANYONE HEARD OF AMERICAN HOME MORTGAGE, THOUGH THEY WERE A SUBPRIME LENDER. BANKRUPT. HOMEBANC HERE IN THE ATL. BANKRUPT.

By David O'Brien

August 11, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

Josh C, it’s no use. Don’t waste your breath. Some just cannot see the forest for the trees when it involves their own team. Instead of seeing a 7-4 record in their past 11 games, with losses against Colorado and at New York and Philly, they see a woefully inconsistent team that has no chance of beating teams with virtually identical records who haven’t played nearly as well as the Braves have recently. They take a stat like a number of “excellent” months teams have had and try to somehow make that demonstrate why the Braves can’t win and the Tigers and others can.

It’s hilarious. Folks, they’re 3-1/2 out of first against a Mets team that’s been a .500 team for three times longer than it wasn’t a .500 team. Deal with it. If it’ll make you feel better, keep saying they can’t win the division, the wild card, can’t win in the playoffs if they get there, whatever.

The rest of us will enjoy the beauty of a baseball season that’s shaping up as a race to the wire, the way it should be….

Oh, and I’ll repeat: The Braves are going to win the division. Sorry, but they just are….

Just heard a surprising stat: Mets are 5-12 in their last 17 home games vs. NL East opponents.

Also, Tigers have lost nine out of their last 10 games.

By Josh C

August 11, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

So what you’re saying is that the Braves have been MORE consistent, right? Schuerholz realized that this team needed a spark so he went out and got the best player available who happened to play the one position (besides pitcher) that was insufficient. This team, as it’s constructed now, is capable of a 19-11 or two.

And yes, 3-3 on this trip will be fine. To make the playoffs you play .500 ball against the top third and .650 ball against the bottom two-thirds. We have overachieved to the former but underachieved to the latter. I fully expect that to change now.

By Ron Roberts

August 11, 2007 12:32 AM | Link to this

Josh C. what are you supposed to see, dude?

We can talk all we want about the Mets not playing well, but guess what? They’re not the only team ahead of us in the standings.

All this talk of how much the Braves hae improved themselves at the trade deadline’s great - on paper.

But it’s resulted in a 4-4 record since Teixeira’s arrival into the lineup. And hey, he’s been a great addition, no doubt.

But if our manager had realized, say, a week ago, that Rafael Soriano had been prone, of late< to giving up the long ball, and not used him in dicey situations til he’d straightened himself out, we’re probably 1.5 games back of the Mets and securely in 2nd place, oh, and sitting atop the wild card.

If our manager had realized, say, a week ago, that our star CF wasn’t only not going to catch fire this season, but was, in fact, ailing (and publicly saying so) from an elbow injury, and would be as effective as a player swinging a wet noodle at the plate, we’re no worse than 1.5 games back of the Mets, securely in 2nd place, and atop the wild card.

That’s just this past week.

Are the Braves capable of making the playoffs? Hell yeah. We got all the tools to get ‘er done.

But blind loyalty to a player who’s clearly not getting better at the plate has been nagging our offense for, say, more than a month.

And under-utilizing a picher who’s been used in 42 games, sports a 3.66 ERA, (and we’re 11-31 in his games pitched) and has been a starter for us before (Oscar Villareal), has hampered our rotation. We’ve instead tried every damned body it seems except the guy we used in an emergency situation last year for a fifth starter. He, by the way, was 1-0 in four starts; oh and we went 4-0 in those starts, so he must’ve kept us in the game, at the very least.

And continually going to the wrong arms out of the bullpen, and sending a guy like Chad Paronto down when he was clearly being effective at the time… and not going with the hot hand out of the bullpen (Moylan) when Dotel and Soriano were struggling…

…these kinds of decisions are hurting this team.

I mean, where would we be without guys like Yunel Escobar? Where would we be without a guy like Buddy Carlyle?

I’ve always admired and appreciated the work Bobby Cox has done, but this season, and lately in particular, I’ve come to wonder if he’s of sound mind. I really have.

By UGA-BRAVE

August 11, 2007 12:33 AM | Link to this

HEY NOTHING PERSONAL SJA, BUT THAT LAST POST MAKES YOU LOOK LIKE A JACKASS. I HOPE YOU ARE BETTER THAN THAT?

By Bob, Journalist

August 11, 2007 12:36 AM | Link to this

Most Honorable KC, you are wrong!!

Not about Andruw being an automatic out … he’s that and more, though a couple of his double play efforts have at least been hit up the middle.

I’m dead serious too … Andruw has consistently said that he wants to do what he can to help the team win…

The best thing he can do to help is not to play except as a defensive replacement, late in the game. There’s absolutely no reason for Willie split his time between Left and Center!

Matt should play Left and Willie center in all the remaining games … with Willie shifting to Left in the eighth or ninth when the situation so dictates. That’s what we should do if we want to win … Andruw must change his setup if his offensive contribution level is to be acceptable … as it is, it is offensive.

Actually, I would have Diaz hitting third, Chipper 4th and Tex 5th.

By David O'Brien

August 11, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this

NCBravesFan, I think a few here really don’t understand that this isn’t the loser-mentality Phils of most of the past decade. And/or they don’t know Cole Hamels is an All-Star and one of the best young pitchers in either league.

Or, they just think the Braves are supposed to win every game, regardless of how hot the opposing pitcher and the opposing team are. Oh, well, another few years of watching ‘ball should help some grasp that even the very best teams lose three out of every eight games.

By BravesDave

August 11, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

DOB, you are something else. I love the blog and you do a great job, but a lot of times you misconstrue what people post on this blog. I never said the Braves can’t make the playoffs, won’t win in the playoffs, or anything else like that. I said that they have been inconsistent. Are you going to argue that that is not the case? C’mon. The are a .500 team since the second week of the season. Is .500 consistent?? Maybe, consistently mediocre. All I have said is that the Braves need a winning streak here. Or just a good streak where they reel off a great stretch of baseball. If you think the Braves are going to overtake the Mets by continuing this win 3, lose 2, win 2, lose 3 nonsense, you are crazy. I posted earlier that they have been no closer than 3 games out since July 22. What do you say about that? When exactly do they catch the Mets??

Don’t waste your breath, Josh C. Funny.

By UGA-BRAVE

August 11, 2007 12:47 AM | Link to this

CMON DOB DO YOU REALLY BELIEVE THAT. I SURE HOPE YOU ARE RIGHT BECAUSE I AM GOING TO BE AT THE BEACH THE LAST TWO WEEKS OF OCT.

music fan you are got 4 seats at a tble to see frampton and the doobies on thursday. gonna be a great show.

ITS GONNA TAKE 88 WINS TO MAKE THE PLAYOFFS.

TELL ME HOW THEY CAN DO THAT WITH TWO 1/2 PITCHERS? BY THE WAY YOU ARE THE MAN

By Bobby Cocks (I suck in game strategy)

August 11, 2007 12:48 AM | Link to this

That lead singer from the Corrs is pretty hot, Andrew Corr I think.

Breathless

Go on, go on Leave me breathless Come on

The daylight’s fading slowly The time with you is standing still I’m waiting for you only The slightest touch and I feel weak

I cannot lie From you I can not hide I’m losing will to try Can’t hide it Can’t fight it

So go on, go on Come on leave me breathless Tempt me, tease me ‘Till I can’t deny this Loving feeling Let me long for your kiss Go on, go on Yeah come on

And if there’s no tomorrow And all we have is here and now I’m happy just to have you You’re all the love I need somehow

It’s like a dream Although I’m not asleep I never want to wake up Don’t lose it Don’t leave it

So go on, go on Come on leave me breathless Tempt me, tease me ‘Till I can’t deny this Loving feeling Let me long for your kiss Go on, go on Yeah come on

And I can’t lie From you I can not hide I’ve lost my will to try Can’t hide it Can’t fight it

So go on, go on Come on leave me breathless Tempt me, tease me ‘Till I can’t deny this Loving feeling Make me long for your kiss

Go on, go on Come on leave me breathless Go on, go on Come on leave me breathless Go on, go on Come on leave me breathless Go on, go on

By CC Rider

August 11, 2007 12:49 AM | Link to this

BRAVES FANS! Wake Up Smell Reality! This team has some good qualities, but when you crunch the numbers they are average and nothing more. The offense is good at scoring runs in bunches, but not manufacturing runs throughout the game. The starters range from very good( Hudson/Smoltz) to average (James/Carlyle) to bad(Any 5th starter). The bench is average. BUT THE BULLPEN is below average. THE NUMBERS! Since July 1 the Braves record is 17 and 17. 11 of those loses belong to the bullpen directly, in 9 other games the bullpen either lost the lead, let the other team tie the game or let the opposing team climb within 1 or 2 runs. THe bullpen had only 5 solid holds where the other team didn’t get within 2 runs and in 2 games they took a small deficit and turned it into a large one. The culprits in 11 games Soriano and Yates. Wickman, Ledezma and Moylan with 2 each. I wish I could deny the truth but the facts are reality. We may have enough offense to win and enough starting pitching to compete with the other mediocre starting pitching, BUT OUR DOWNFALL WILL BE THE BULLPEN. So, unless Bobby wises up and tries someone else in the key roles, well REALITY WILL BITE.

By Ron Roberts

August 11, 2007 12:55 AM | Link to this

DO’B… Dude, I trust your baseball know-how and your gut feeling that the Braves will win the division; really do.

But I know you can’t not understand why this up-down inconsistent play (and managing) of the Braves this season isn’t somewhat maddening.

I mean, with Gonzalez and Soriano added to our bullpen, it was supposed to be one of the best in the bigs. Then Gonzalez went down. So we figured with Soriano and Wickman we were still gonna be good. Wrong. So we go and add Dotel and Mahay with a young heater in Tyler Yates and Macay McBride, Oscar Villareal, and throw in the rookie phenom Peter Moylan and Chad Paronto. Oh, but we lose Dotel within a week of getting him, we ship Paronto down despite his performing well, and Tyler does his up-and-down thing, Wickman’s back problems surface, or his arm needs an MRI… I mean, it’s as if the bullpen is snake-bit.

Credit Schuerholz for making all the moves he has to address it, though. He’s been on the ball since the offseason.

To me, there’s no rational explanation for having not gone to Villareal as a fifth starter much sooner, frankly. There’s no rational explanation for recent uses of Soriano, either, or for trotting Andruw onto the everyday lineup, and until very recently, batting clean-up when he’s had a so-so April, followd by horrendous months in May and June, and a so-so July before tanking again this month.

Getting Teixeira, Mahay and Dotel were supposed to alleviate the ills of this team, and while Teixeira’s been the real deal, Mahay, bless his heart, walks the leadoff guy just about every time out, and we’re fortunate it’s only bitten us once, but it has, and now Dotel’s damaged goods, if only for a little while.

Trust me, I get that the Mets have struggled and aren’t exactly running away with the divisio, but we’re 2-5 against the Phillies since the opening series, where, by the way, we went extra innings to win 2 in that three-game sweep.

We can point to an easier patch of games and be optimistic; but we could’ve done that with a cake-walk of a homestand with Pittsburgh and Cincinatti, and that was mediocre, then, too.

We can’t win when Smoltz pitches, lately; we can’t get more than six out of our #3 and haven’t had a complete game yet this season, when our poor bullpen could desperately use more than one night off each week, apparently.

There’s just been no indication that our beloved Braves are going to flip a switch and put it in fifth gear and take this thing. I think the second-guessing and the doubt is understandable, myself.

By BravesDave

August 11, 2007 12:55 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB, in your post to NCBravesFan, you said people don’t realize that the Phillies are a good team and Cole Hamels is an All Star. You are right, we are all stupid. All night long I have been saying that the Braves scored 4 runs in the first against one of the best pitchers in the NL. Does that mean that I don’t realize that he is an All Star?? I guess I should have specifically mentioned that he was an All-Star just to be certain. My complaint was that when you beat up an ace for a 4-spot in the first, you should win the game. Especially an important game against a team that is battling with you for a playoff spot. I guess I am just stupid and need to watch more baseball. What is wrong with me. Oh, and the best teams lose 3 out of 8…true. Unfortunately, the Braves have been losing 4 out of 8 since April 12.

By chrisklob

August 11, 2007 12:57 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist * The best thing he can do to help is not to play except as a defensive replacement, late in the game*

With all due respect, Scott Boras will never allow that to happen. No matter how much it SHOULD happen or how much we WANT it to happen.

DOB even the very best teams lose three out of every eight games.

Unfortunately, some of our regulars will never grasp that concept. There are 30 major league teams, each with 25 men on the roster. Every night, each and every one of them expects a chance to win. The guys in the white hats don’t always win. But that point is easily overlooked. It is too easy to point at BC and second guess every decision made. Of course very little praise is said in his favor when things pan out as they “should”.

I sometimes wonder if this team went 161-1 if people would still complain about the single loss. I know where I’d lay my money on that bet.

By UGA-BRAVE

August 11, 2007 1:06 AM | Link to this

CMON DAVE GET FOUR OFF HAMMELS, IN THE FIRST.

DO YOU REALLY THINK A PITCHER WITH any balls gives up four in the first. playS a little golf with a ex-brave kinda mgr. guy who hangs out a TJ,S AND USED TO PLAY SS FOR THE BRAVES.

DOB YOU KNOW JEFF, BRAD, AND MY BUDDDY TOMMY GREGG WHO IS NOW WORKING FOR DAYTON, IN K.C

By Chop Chop

August 11, 2007 1:08 AM | Link to this

DOB,

It’s easy for you to be confident about the Braves when you have nothing invested in the team. I wouldn’t say that you’re an unbiased observer, but you’re not going to be cursing the heavens if the Braves miss the playoffs. Some of us here will be.

Not me, though. I’ll just know that I wasn’t let down. It’s kind of like being in a relationship with a woman when you have a lot of baggage carried over from your last one. You keep your expectations down so you’ll see the stab in the back coming.

By Josh C

August 11, 2007 1:10 AM | Link to this

From time to time over the last fifteen years I have cursed Bobby my damned self. Been known to call him an idiot, even. At the end of the year, he won. He won with Glavine, Maddux, Smoltz. He won when Smoltz went down, when Galarraga got cancer, when Wohlers went off his rocker and Rocker went off on the reporter. He won with eighteen… EIGHTEEN rookies. He won with J.D. Drew batting cleanup and, not coincidentally, having his career year. Eli Marrero, Charles Thomas, and Greg Olson were all-star caliber under Bobby. The immortal Terry Pendleton, decidedly better at coaching hitting than hitting itself (considering his lifetime .270/.316/.391) hit .300 for the first and last time and won an MVP under Bobby. Countless retread pitchers had career years, but all the credit was given to Leo. Is all this coincidental? I would highly doubt it. When players who join the Braves talk about the “culture of winning”, who exactly would you credit for building this culture?

Patience is a virtue, folks. I for one agree with DOB… this team, as constructed today, will win the division.

By David O'Brien

August 11, 2007 1:13 AM | Link to this

Ouch, McBride gave up a grand salami to Oakland’s Jack Cust tonight. Tigers have lost as many games as any team in baseball since the All-Star break. Stunning.

By Steve

August 11, 2007 1:13 AM | Link to this

DOB

Most other contenders in the NL have been mostly mediocre. Regarding the Braves — there is still a very good chance they will make it into post season for that reason.

The problem I have is that a post season appearance this year shouldn’t be in doubt. I think Bobby Cox’s strategic and tactical shortcomings as a manager have cost the Braves about 10 net wins this year. I think the Braves could arguably have the best record in baseball with more astute strategic and tactical managing.

Going back to 1991, I think Cox has always been a poor strategic and tactical manager, but always a great manager of people, which of course does matter.

The thing about baseball is that you can make the wrong decision during a game and have it go right, or you can make the right decision and have it go wrong. But over the course of a whole season, making the wrong decision will more often go wrong than go right, and making the right decision will more often go right than wrong.

Or you can be so deep as a team that your margin of error is so great that bad decision making still doesn’t end up costing you that many games. I think that is the reason why the Braves still managed to keep winning during the regular seasons even though Cox was intellectually challenged regarding strategy and tactics. But less than astute strategic and tactical managing was harder to get away with during the post season, regardless of how strong the teams were. There was just not the same margin of error for bad decision making.

This particular Braves team doesn’t have the same margin of error due to far more parity among teams in general, and too many holes on the roster which have to be nuanced. Which is why so many more games are coming down to strategic and tactical decision making during the regular season — and why it’s absolutely critical that better decisions be made.

I don’t think any astute baseball fan would argue that Andruw Jones has not been killing the Braves this year with his bat. But why is he still getting so many opportunities to kill them? It’s unbelievable.

Billy Martin benched Reggie Jackson in the final Game 5 of the ALCS in 1977 against the Kansas City Royals because he had gone something like 1 - 14 in the series and because KC was pitching a tough left-hander. That took plenty of guts, far more guts than to sit Andruw down or to bat him 8th where he can do the least amount of damage, or to pinch-hit for him late in games during critical moments.

And who ended up winning that ALCS and then the World Series back in 1977? And who had one of the great performances in World Series history that year?

By BravesDave

August 11, 2007 1:13 AM | Link to this

chrisklob and DOB, Ron Roberts pretty much summed up everything that the people that complain about losses have been saying here on this blog. DOB, you continue to point to the Mets playing poorly, but when do the Braves flip the switch and start playing better than the Mets??? I am sure that you would agree that the Braves need to play better than the Mets and Phils to win the division, correct?? When does that happen??? We are talking about 7-4 in the last 11. Well, how about 2-2 in the last 4??? How about 9-8 in the last 17??? When does this streak of good baseball begin??? There are only 46 games left.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 11, 2007 1:13 AM | Link to this

just time and place Roberts…

By Ron Roberts

August 11, 2007 1:15 AM | Link to this

Chrisklob… last I checked, Scott Boras doesn’t call the shots when it comes to who is in the starting lineup and who isn’t for the Atlanta Braves.

Again, I’m a Bobby Cox fan for as long as he’s been with this organiztion; I’ve defended him against the countless critics here (and elsewhere) who’ve questioned his playoff acumen. The playoffs are a crap shoot, nowadays.

But I can’t defend continually using Andruw (at least pinch-hit for him with the bases loaded and one out when you have Matt Diaz riding the pine with a .340 average), and putting Soriano on the mound when the last thing you want is a home run surrended, and that’s about all he’s doing consistently anymore.

By UGA-BRAVE

August 11, 2007 1:17 AM | Link to this

HEY NO CHASE NO VCTORINO AND WE STILL LOSE CMON DOB IT AINT GOOD

By BravesDave

August 11, 2007 1:24 AM | Link to this

And another thing, DOB, were you really saying that the Phillies were not playing as well as the Braves lately?? Last time that I checked, the Phillies have gone 14-6 in their last 20 games. Are the Braves playing that well? Wow, looks like the Braves are 10-10 in the last 20 games. Sounds pretty average to me. So who are these teams with similar records that the Braves are playing better than right now?? Hmmm, looks like the Mets are 11-9 in their last 20 games. So, DOB, what exactly are you talking about?

By chrisklob

August 11, 2007 1:25 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, that was a tongue-in-cheek comment.

By UGA-BRAVE

August 11, 2007 1:27 AM | Link to this

AND IN THIS CORNER SJA, VS, RADIO RON MY MONEY IS ON SJA.

ITS A SOUTERN THING.

By Bernie

August 11, 2007 1:28 AM | Link to this

I’ve watched the blogs, I’ve seen the decisions on the field, I’ve never made a comment. But, tonight, after following the braves since 1958, I’ve got to speak. You cannot give up a four run lead in the first inning. The fault lies in the pitching coach. The manager is the good guy,telling them to keep on pushing, they can do it, constantly encouraging the players; the batting coach and the pitching coach are the hard a$$’s, getting the most out of the players by keeping them attuned to what is reality, keeping them in the game no matter what the score. Their words to a pitcher who has a four run lead in the first inning is, “this is a good hitting team, do not let people get on base at any cost, if you do, you may as well pack your bags and enjoy your career in the minors, four runs means nothing in the majors, bear down and shut them out.” This didn’t happen. Leo would not have let this happen. It’s not Escobar, it’s not Bobby, it’s not Templeton, it’s McDowell. He is not rallying his troops. It appears to me that he has to be more dominant(I don’t know if that’s the word) with his pitchers. There is no confidence in the pitching corp. They seem to act timid and afraid to be in the position of trying to succeed. I am frustated!

By Ron Roberts

August 11, 2007 1:32 AM | Link to this

SJA… you putz. You’ve had MY email address all damned day and haven’t corresponded. I’m done demoralizing you enough for one day. That pathetic hissy fit you threw, complaining about somebody layin’ the smack down on your mom was priceless. And you thought I was gonna say something to the ajc.com brass? Uh, who wound up whining, big shot?

Oh yeah, it was all fun’n games before that, right? You’ve made every scurrilous insinuation imaginable since the day you first graced this blog, but you wanna cry foul when somebody takes you to the shed? Sorry, double-standards won’t cut it.

Josh C. you’ll get no argument from me about Bobby’s accomplishments, man. None. I just seriously wonder if Bobby’s as sharp as he once was, and I don’t make that statement lightly. My grandfather died with Alzheimer’s diseas and it was a painful ten-year ordeal for our family. I’m not saying Bobby’s showing signs of that or dementia, of course, but you have to wonder, of late, if there’s just a deterioration of some sort going on, man. Andruw, day in, day out? C’mon. Even he said his elbow’s killing him, to the AJC beat writer, no less. If DO’B hears it from Andruw, then, uh, why wouldn’t Bobby know that, as well?

Tell me how Willie Harris and Matt Diaz both playing while Andruw get shis mind (and elbow) right would be a hinderance to the team? And after Thursday’s acrobatics, we can’t even use defense as a crutch, really. The differences wouldn’t be that dramatic.

Tell me, Josh C., would you have used Soriano in key situations the past week or more?

I’m concerned; really am. Maybe Bobby, too, is frustrated. Maybe he’s getting bad info from his pitching coach, who I’m sure he’ consults with on matters of who to use in the ‘pen and in what situations. I don’t know. I just know that something isn’t working in that regards.

If I didn’t have the continued playing of Andruw to keep going back to question, and riding Soriano when he’s clearly not right, then I’d have little to question about Cox’s managing this year, either. I just don’t get, at this point in the season, utilizing those two when they’re clearly hindering the team’s drive to make the postseason.

By AZBravoFan

August 11, 2007 1:33 AM | Link to this

If it was just a matter of AJ’s head not being right like we all thought it was a couple months ago, that would be one thing. But since he’s obviously not right physically, wouldn’t it make sense to DL him and let him get healthy for the stretch drive? Get Willie in there and go small-ball in CF. Or call up Brandon Jones. Anything is better than this. And I think Andruw and Scotty would agree that no matter how many HR and RBI he ends up with (gonna be less than 30/100 at this rate), no one is going to open up the vault for a guy who hit .195 over the course of 600+ AB.

By UGA-BRAVE

August 11, 2007 1:35 AM | Link to this

BRAVE-DAVE LIKE I ALWAWS HAVE SAID YOU ARE PRAGMTIC SOMETHING THE REST OF THE GOONS JUST DONT UNDERSTAND.

BY THE WAY SHORT . BAER-STEANS EASY MONEY.

By Ron Roberts

August 11, 2007 1:40 AM | Link to this

UGA-Brave… I’m born and raised in Georgia (the south), and SJA claims to be from Vagin, I mean Virginia. Oh, and I’m a UGA grad, too. :)

But I don’t mind folks making picks. Fact is, he’s had my email addy all day and uttered not one email my way. And why on earth would anybody believe somebody as well-educated as he professes to be be such a juvenile on a blog?

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 11, 2007 1:40 AM | Link to this

time and place Ron Roberts…that’s all it takes…you cowardly piece of $#!t!…stop trying to sound “tuff” just for the blog…

By BravesDave

August 11, 2007 1:42 AM | Link to this

Bernie, you mention not giving up a 4-run lead in the first inning. I seem to remember another game this season where the Braves scored 6 runs in the first three innings and Kyle Davies could not hold the lead. The Braves ended up losing the game 7-6 to the Dodgers and Kyle Davies was eventually traded. Tonight was eerily similar. Score a bunch early and end up losing by 1 run. The fact that Chuck came back and shut the Philles down after the first is a reason he is still here (he has ability and a better makeup, while Davies just had ability), while Kyle Davies is in KC.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 11, 2007 1:44 AM | Link to this

Taken me to task?…sure thing Ronnie…your problems have just begun…

By UGA-BRAVE

August 11, 2007 1:45 AM | Link to this

SEASON WITHIN A SEASON, WHAT IF WILLY DONT MAKE THAT CATCH?

avg. team just breaking our heart everygame every night night. we dont win close games.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 11, 2007 1:46 AM | Link to this

time and place you gutless puke…that’s all it takes…

By BravesDave

August 11, 2007 1:53 AM | Link to this

UGA, do you believe that drive-by that DOB pulled on me?? Comes on for a few minutes, rips me up, then bolts out when I defend my points.

I think DOB is great, but I think he has some misplaced optimism with this team. I have not seen the stretch this season that makes me think the Braves are a playoff team, outside of their start to the season. That is why I say we need to see some type of hot streak. Past Braves teams always had one. Some would start slowly, then rip off a 35-15 streak to put the division to bed. It is not happening right now. They have plenty in the way of talent and skill to win this division. I think they should win this division. When do they start playing better baseball?

The Phillies are playing better than the Braves with a horrible pitching staff and injuries to Utley, Bourn, and Victorino. Explain that to me.

When do the Braves go on their 14-6 streak, like the one the Phillies are on right now?

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 11, 2007 1:54 AM | Link to this

Forrest for the tree’s , lol. O’Brien , in about 46 games I have the sneaky premonition that we will be burning your Forrest right to the ground. I mean , what is it that you can’t see ? In July the Braves offense scored 152 runs in 26 games , thats a red hot 6.44 .AVG per game and yet they ended up 13-13. So far this month 58 runs in 9 games for an .AVG of 5.84 per games. Thats 210 freaking runs over the last 35 games , that is six runs a game. Yet , we have a record of 18-17. Why ? pitching , pitching , pitching , stupid. The bullpen is in shambles which reduces the rotation to covering their heads with a towel after the seventh inning because they cannot bear to watch another quality start go up in flames. You keep drinking your own kool-aid , I can’t wait for October or for the entire off-season to chew on you , I just can’t wait. It’s gonna be 2006 all over again and I’m your waking nightmare Deja Vu style.

By Ron Roberts

August 11, 2007 1:58 AM | Link to this

SJA… I’m off all this weekend, and available Monday and Tuesday after 2pm, too. You tell me when your flight arrives and I’ll even greet you at the airport. You’ve had my email address all damned day, mister bigshot.

I’ll also be in Mobile, Alabama next weekend for a reunion with employees of the radio station I worked at there, too, if you’d like to “catch up” there, instead.

My inbox is still empty, horse-trader.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 11, 2007 1:59 AM | Link to this

oh well…just as I expected…

By UGA-BRAVE

August 11, 2007 1:59 AM | Link to this

RON VS. SJA LET IT GO. HEY RON WE GOT A REALLY GOOD QB IN STAFF. AND SFA I LIKE YOU TOO CANT WAIT FOR COLLEGE FTBALL.

AT LEAST IT WILL BE BETTER THAN US ARGUING ABOUT A FLAWED BASEBALL TEAM.

By BravesDave

August 11, 2007 2:01 AM | Link to this

SJA and Ron, aren’t you guys tired of this nonsense already? This is a friggin’ baseball blog. What is the point? Are you guys bored by baseball?

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 11, 2007 2:08 AM | Link to this

I’m available anytime…’exact’ time and place gets you in the game…that’s all you need to say…I’m not going to chit chat with your stupid @$$…and New Orleans is a big $#!thole, a bit vague…exact time…exact place…how much easier can I make it for you?

By Bernie

August 11, 2007 2:08 AM | Link to this

BravesDave

That’s my point exactly, the fact that James came back and pitched so great after the first inning leads me to belive that the “impetus” was not delivered early enough. I don’t have any qualms in stating that Chuck James (and eventually Kyle Davies) will be very good pitchers in the majors, but I do suggest that an early “chat” with Chuck could have had a grester impact that would have perhaps alleviated a very trying first inning. I think such a talk was not given until it was too late!

By UGA-BRAVE

August 11, 2007 2:09 AM | Link to this

BRAVE-DAVE, DOB PULLED A DRIVE BY ON YOU NO DOUBT,

GOTTA WIN 6 OR SEVEN IN A ROW. JUST DONT TELL CHASE BECAUSE HE IS TO STUPID. look this it how it is boys. withtout a meaningful streak we will always be chasing. PERIOD IF THEY DONT GET IT THE HELL WITH THEM.

By BravesDave

August 11, 2007 2:13 AM | Link to this

Coach, we have had our disagreements over the offense, whether it is consistent or not (prior to the Teixiera trade). One thing that UGA keeps pointing out is that when the Braves score more than 6 runs, they typically win. When they score less than 6 runs, they lose…A LOT. I tend to think, rather than just pitching, it is ususally something different each night with this team. Tonight, the defense let them down, and the offense let them down after the first inning. Other nights, the starting pitching is solid and the bullpen implodes. Other nights the starters are terrible. The fact is that the team cannot put it all together for any significant stretch of games. This is going to be their downfall unless they do it soon.

By Ron Roberts

August 11, 2007 2:19 AM | Link to this

Trust me, BraveDave, I’ve been tired of SJA’s false-bravado act since long ago. You can see for yourself via today’s and the prior blog that I had been doing nothing but talking Braves’ baseball (not even glorious music) before SJA decided to roll out his bloviated smack-talk yesterday. I replied in-kind.

He’s always been a big-talk gutless wonder, here, and always will. He’ll get ripped, then get p** and swear off the blog, never to return again, only, you guess it, he does.

He’s had my email address all damned day - which I offered to him so he could continue spewing his bile at me in order to alleviate the rest of you from the 8th grade juvenility. Didn’t work.

He’s had that email address all damned day, since he’s wantd to name a time and place, and yet no email. I’ve even emailed his above-posted email address (created today, by the way, via the ol’ free yahoo.com) and still have no reply.

He’s gotten a nice run-down of my availability the next few weeks…and still, no reply.

When the smack-talk didn’t result in my cowering or running away, he whined about me coming back on his insult with one of my own.

So until he puts up or shuts up, this is what ya get outta him. From now on, all he gets from me is “you have my schedule, my email address and an open invitation, if you’d like to carry it any further.”

By the way, still no email from the mighty one.

By UGA-BRAVE

August 11, 2007 2:21 AM | Link to this

HEY RON I AM WITH YOU. GO DAWGS

By gotigers72

August 11, 2007 2:26 AM | Link to this

Chuck giving up 4 in the bottoim of the first after the Braves got 4 to start the game was pathetic! He needs to learn to keep the ball down after a good start like the Braves got off to in that great start. I can’t think of anyone except Nolan Ryan that got people out consistently by pitching up in the zone. And he didn’t pitch up that much in the zone. Chuck James sure isn’t someone that can pitch up in the zone that gets people out consistently.

The Braves need to improve their focus or they’ll be out of the playoffs soon.

I hope Schuerholz does not bite the bait that Boras is going to offer for resigning Andruw. He is hitting FREAKIN’ .213 and hasn’t hit well except for a 2 week period in July. Time for him to move on, and for the Braves to go after Rowand or Torii Hunter. He has not come though in clutch situaion all year.

By BravesDave

August 11, 2007 2:29 AM | Link to this

Ron, I appreciate the fact that you do try to talk baseball here. That has not gone unnoticed. Usually, I agree with a lot that you have to say. Sad thing is, there are not many left on the blog tonight, after a tough loss, Friday night, etc. And when you should be talking baseball, you and SJA are busy scheduling a fight in the schoolyard after class. Ignore him.

I feel like a teacher. On second thought, if you want to continue the battle, go right ahead.

By UGA-BRAVE

August 11, 2007 2:29 AM | Link to this

BRAVE-DAVE THE RULE IS INTACT WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME WE PUT ANYTING TOGETHER

WITHOUT SCORING 6 OR MORE.

By gotigers72

August 11, 2007 2:40 AM | Link to this

The Braves may be lucky to win 1 game in this series. They have the Black Hole starter going tonight [9-23, Cormier going tonight], and Buddy Carlyle going Sunday night. Nothing to brag about, right pitiful. Hopefully the hitters will wake up and do some damage. If they get swept by the Phillies, that may put an end to things.

The Phillies will put an end to things, no matter what happens during the rest of the year.

By BravesDave

August 11, 2007 2:42 AM | Link to this

gotigers, agreed on Chuck James. He does not have a good enough fastball to have poor location. Glavine never really threw much harder than Chuck, but Glavine alwa