Braves

By ElbravoX-- EbX

August 18, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Third!

By Lew

August 18, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Well-Work has begun on the Teixeira Wurlitzer drawings for the Songwriting Duo. Is DOB and His Lovely and Wise Replacement Blogmaster, Ms. Rodgers going to intercede for us to have Grinch and KC present the awards at the Mets game? Enquiring minds must know.

By Bob, Journalist

August 18, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

A—ville Ranger, It looks to me like this team is reverting to the one real flaw in BC’s approach

That’s my uneasy sense too, more or less … though we could both be wrong or over reacting … the biggest problem with telling lies is that after a while, you start believing them …. hopefully, there’s reason to believe that after the dust settles, the light bulb will again be turned on and they will re-revert to their earlier, albeit recently found, identity … it too followed adversity.

Call it what you will, working the pitcher or just plain smart hitting. It is imperative they get it

I like “smart hitting” best and I I like the concept of “controlled aggression” … I think I’ve used that word group before … or certainly something closely akin.

Well Dame Agatha always said if you wanted to hide something, just put it out in plain sight … here I’ve been looking all over creation for it and there it was all the time!

Like I said in earlier posts, post season is theirs for the taking … and where it’s at is above the neck … if we can figure it out, they will too.

As an aside, I didn’t fully understand the motivation behind Hudson’s comments … were they in awe of Wolf … and regardless, what prompted him to make such a statement publicly?

By Lew

August 18, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

Yes, we have toys. Don’t you wish you did, instead of having to play with yourself all the time?

By Paladin

August 18, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Folks, I had posted this on Carroll’s blog before I saw Cuzzin Lew’s, that dawggone good artist that cranks out the Wurlitzers, warning that the new blog was up. So, I brung it with me, for what it is “worth”.

The eastern term chi refers to a balance of the Yin-Yang,most great boxers understand this near oxymoronic idea of controlled

I returned from my nap to find the above, plus some other philosophizing, and I was sure my machine had malfunctioned and delivered me to some other blog. But then, I came on some troll trollopisms and BravesDave and TemperBrave and knew that I was still “at home”. Times may be a changin’, but not on this blog.

Also, I once had a Boxer who didn’t know his yin from his yang, but he was a good dog, never-the-less. :-)

By TampaBrave

August 18, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

Don’t forget to set the fire in the press box tonight.

By Boorish

August 18, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Lew and Paladin, very boorish individuals!

By Carolina Lady

August 18, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Wurlitzer, yes, I have many toys, but all of them together don’t equal one of Lew’s beautiful artworks. They are special and they are treasures. But you know that, don’t you? Why so angry and bitter about things that other enjoy so much? I just don’t understand that outlook.
In kindness, CL

By Lew

August 18, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

Yes, You are.

By Fat Chick

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

Paladin

Time for your blue pill big boy.

By Lewser

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

So Picasso/ I mean Lew, do you do art with one hand and type with the other? How else could you do art, considering you’re here running your vile mouth all the damned time?

By Lew

August 18, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

Ma’am-It’s likely jealousy that they will never be the recipient of a Wurlitzer. I’ve done ten of them so far and no one has refused them or returned them, though several have wanted them but haven’t won. No problem. No Jerks need apply.

By Paladin

August 18, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

Have y’all noticed that the one-who-stinks posts under a “new” name, each time. Not hard to figure out who got banned, is it?

By Bob, Journalist

August 18, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Lew, so responding to such boorish scum is understandable but pointless … David O’B, the Wurlitzer 3:47 post is totally out of bounds … should the post not qualify and deletion, surely a crosscheck of the IP address with other posts is in order … with the objective of the severest definitive action being taken.

While it may only be my opinion, methinks there have been few posts aimed at the Blog containing that level of venom and bile … I’m truly offended!

By Lew

August 18, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

My vile mouth? Seems to me that the trash and crud is coming out of your’s and not mine. What is your problem, anyway? Maybe you should undo the bunching of your boxers-the resulting constriction is severely limiting your cerebral circulation.

By Paladin

August 18, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

SJA If you have any frequent-flyer points left after you finish your other “business”, stop by Chattanooga and pick me up. We’ll go wherever is necessary to find, and eradicate this foul-mouthed vermin. I’ll hold your coat, big guy, and, afterwards, the pull-string Bull Durham sack to drop his carcass w/long tail, into. Give me some warning. As I have said before, it is a 2 day trip by mule from here to ‘Nooga.

By Stuart Smalley

August 18, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

Bob,

We need to channel your intolerant behavior. I want you to join my 12 step program. I’m sure I could do you some good.

Repeat after me: I’m good enough…….. I’m smart enough…… and doggonnit, people like me.

There, don’t you feel better.

By Carolina Lady

August 18, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Lew, self-less giving of such a treasured gift should never be disparaged. There’s no excuse to be made for such behavior. I hope those 10 people realize how very fortunate they are - and I’m sure they do.

Wish y’all were here for supper tonight! There is the best-smelling roast (w/potatoes, carrots & onion) in the oven. And I’m starving! :-)))

By bravesfan

August 18, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

DOB is there any chance of Renteria playing tonight?

By TampaBrave

August 18, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

Lew and Bob,

Did I miss something? what the heck are y’all babbling about?

Back to baseball.

Sure would like to have a leadoff hitter next year with speed who doesn’t fly out all the time. A Chone Figgins type.

By Lew

August 18, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

Journalist Bob-Methinks the Man’s Mama might teach some manners to the Master of Mental Midgetry. Attacking me is one thing, but taking after CL in such a crude manner is basically inexcusable. Maybe the culprit is really Steven Seagal. I just read that he feels his acting career was ruined by the FBI. I always thought it was because he acted with the emotion of a cigar store indian, myself. Maybe he’s so upset at his lack of talent he takes aim at those who actually exhibit a modicum of talent, themselves. Wurlitzer Worthy? I sincerely doubt it.

By Lew

August 18, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave-Obviously you did miss something. However, actually reading posts should remedy whatever you missed.

By KC

August 18, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

The Braves are 8-7 in August (since the ballyhooed trades). Why? Let’s take closer look at those 7 losses.

EVALUATING AUGUST LOSSES:

• 8/2 vs. Astros, 11-12… REASON FOR LOSS: 5th starter (Reyes), and Soriano.

• 8/3 vs. Rockies, 9-2… REASON FOR LOSS: Smoltz’s poor start, shoddy defense.

• 8/8 vs. Mets, 4-3… REASON FOR LOSS: Soriano yields HR, Andruw GIDP with 1 out in 9th.

• 8/10 vs. Phillies, 5-4… REASON FOR LOSS: James’ poor start, Hamels settled in and shut Braves down.

• 8/12 vs. Phillies, 5-3… REASON FOR LOSS: Carlyle’s poor start, offense quiet

• 8/16 vs. Giants, 9-3… REASON FOR LOSS: James’ terrible start, Lincecum sharp

• 8/10 vs. D-Backs, 4-0… REASON FOR LOSS: Tip your cap to Webb

What can we take away from the last 16 games, and what can we expect?

BIGGEST PROBLEM, HAS NOT THE BIGGEST PROBLEM LATELY: The Braves biggest hole heading into August (lack of a 5th starter) was actually only responsible for 1 of the Braves 7 losses this month. But if that hole were plugged at the beginning of the month and had we won just one more game (8/2)… the Braves would be 9-6 in August, which looks a lot better than 8-7. That hole may well have been plugged in the person of Lance Cormier. We’ll see. My suspicion is that’s not a game the Braves lose now with Cormier instead of Reyes.

HEY… WHAT CAN YOU DO? As for the 2 losses that came as a result of a bad Smoltz performance, and a great performance by Webb… you just shrug your shoulders and move on. Bad Smoltz outings don’t happen often, and you (fortunately) don’t see a pitcher like Webb often.

JAMES ISN’T THIS BAD… CARLYLE’S JUST FINE: One (possibly 2) of the August losses can be attributed to Chuck James’ struggles. Yes, he is flawed pitcher… but he’s MUCH better than he’s shown lately. You can usually count on James to give you 5-6 innings of 2 or 3 run baseball and most nights, that’ll be plenty. He’s been a problem this month, but I expect he’ll be an asset more often than not (as he has been most of the season). A bad Buddy Carlyle start was largely responsible for one of those Phillies losses. But if he keeps pitching well 4 out of 5 times out as he has been… the Braves will gladly take that.

SORIANO MUST GET OUT OF SOUVENIR BIZ: Of these 7 losses… about the only thing that really concerns me is Rafael Soriano. Can someone please make sure he’s not using Chris Reitsma’s old locker. There might be some bad energy left there. He’s got to keep the ball in the ballpark. We need him.

OVERALL… Keep in mind, the Braves have had to play 4 tough teams so far this month. But I think the rotation is in good shape, and the offense is in great shape. I’m not concerned about middle relief either. With the expanded rosters around the corner, the Braves will soon have plenty of bullpen depth.

The recent fallibility of the Soriano/Wickman combination is the only thing that concerns me at all. Those 2 might wind up deciding the division, one way or the other.

I think we can look for MUCH better than .533 baseball over the remaining 6 weeks of so of the season. I predict a 26-14 record over the remaining 40 games.

By Paladin

August 18, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

Sure would like to have a leadoff hitter next year with speed who doesn’t fly out all the time. A Chone Figgins type.

TB I realize that I am only marginally cognitive, but what the hell are you talking about? Do you know?

By Bill in VA

August 18, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

When the Braves are as flat at the plate as they were last night, why doesn’t Bobby make the pitcher run around a little by laying a few bunts down the first base line; like 2 or 3 in a row. What’s to lose? It could change the dynamics of the whole game.

By Bob, Journalist

August 18, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

Lew, from my perspective, that was attacking the core of the Blog! I have neither use nor time for such scum.

Later …

By Paladin

August 18, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

Lew Instead of Seagal, how about Seagull? We use to have a saying about those who just stay on the sidelines, contributing nothing. We said they are a bunch of seagulls: All they do is eat, defecate and beech. At times, there is a flock of them on here.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Paladin, you are correct. Nothing has changed on this blog. You still do not talk baseball. Isn’t it time for your nap??

By Lew

August 18, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Tampa Brave-Yes, Figgins has had a fine season (at least after he got back from missing those 31 games). He has a .339 BA and an OBP of .395. If you compare them to our lead off hitters, however, you see we stack up just fine-Johnson, .291 BA and .388 OBP, Harris, .321 and .395 and Escobar .314 and .351. Why would you spend anything- money or talent- to acquire Figgins, when we will really need to revamp our pitching and we already have successful lead off hitters? Dude, that move makes damn little sense to me. Shouldn’t make much sense to you, either.

By Braveheart

August 18, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Tampabrave, I don’t think I’m quite ready to face the consequences for setting the press box on fire. Perhaps, I’ll settle for burning Chris Young’s bats. That dude is killing us. Or maybe I just need to stick his bats in the freezer to cool those suckers off. He’s an imperfect hitter but he looks like he is going to be a good one for a bunch of years. Either that or just a maddening talent who teases the DBacks for years to come.

By TampaBrave

August 18, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

Paladin, Sure I know, a guy who doesn’t go for the fence, a guy who keeps the corner guys honest, a guy who puts the ball in play and gets hits by being fleet of foot. We already have the HR hitters and gap hitters. We need a guy who gets on and rattles the pitcher, steals bases at a high percentage. I have said it before, we’ve had AJ so long, we forgot what the prototypical CF is. AJ is a freak, and I mean that in a positive way, but we will likely not find another freak to replace the one we have, so…., let’s get that needed speed guy to lead off. Harris is ok, but not your everyday guy.

Agree with Bill in VA’s 4:45.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

KC, the only thing that I would disagree with in your post regarding the Braves recent losses is that Lincecum really was not sharp. He gave up 5 hits and a walk plus 3 runs on 89 pitches in 5 innings. Watching the game, rather than just looking at the stats, he was there for the taking. He was wild out of the strike zone most the night. The real problem in that game, outside of James’ implosion, was that the Giants bullpen shut down the Braves on 1 hit in 4 innings of relief on a total of 41 pitches…in 4 innings!!!!

By Paladin

August 18, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

BravesDud When someone whose opinion I respect asks me to talk baseball, I will. I, other than this, do not talk to you about anything. Bye Yankee.

By Old Lefty

August 18, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

Thank you, thank you, KC, for a fine, balanced analysis and assessment. You provide an excellent, fact-ladened, though clearly forward-looking and subject to those proverbial slings and arrows, addendum to DOB’s blog premise … it is time for this crew, with all the necessary talent to do so, to rise to the top of the NL East.

Would that the rest of the Denizens could forego all the goofy home-spinning and stay focused on the heart of the blog …

By KC

August 18, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

BravesDave: Fair enough. James pretty much made it a non-issue with that batting practice session he threw.

By Paladin

August 18, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave My bad. I thought “Chone Figgins” was a put on. Shows what I know, huh? But, at least I will admit my “shortcomings”(How does Grinch* always get into the conversation :-))unlike others who blather on for paragraph after paragraph, “educating” us. I’m not talking about you. This time. :-)

By TampaBrave

August 18, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

Lew

I said “like” Figgins. I really like KJ and love escobar, but all due respect, they are not burners whom the pitchers fear when they get on base. Agreed, front line pitcher is priority as JS is ready to sunset, but also know AJ will be gone and will need to be replaced with a legit CF. I am talking about a SPEED component. I hear everyone talking about our inability to play any small ball. This is my point.

By Old Lefty

August 18, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

KC … just re-read your 4:42 … again, way to go. A winning percentage of .650 over the rest is definitely not too much to expect, and if 104 wins doesn’t put another flag on the 755 Club facade …

By Savannah Guy

August 18, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

Ladies and Gentlemen, the multi-monikered sociopath is trolling for attention and trying to disrupt the blog. The earlier posts were bothersome, but the 4:13 post is over the line and banishment worthy. Has someone emailed the post to AJC yet? This crudeness won’t be tolerated.

By Blake Brodie

August 18, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

yo DOB…hudson is pitching monday night against dumatrait and the reds…not sunday afternoon where smoltz goes against yusmeiro

quality post tho nonetheless

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

Renteria is at least a few days away, Cox said. He felt a little twinge or pain when he did some figure-8 running in the outfield yesterday….

McCANN IS OUT OF LINEUP today. Cox wanted to rest him tonight and have him catch day game with Smoltz pitching tomorrow.

NO B.P. for Braves outside today, because of heat. Cox and Terry P. agreed a day off would better serve them than another day of batting practice in this heat. Some are hitting in indoor cage, but team didn’t have to be here until 5 p.m. today.

By Paladin

August 18, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

Would that the rest of the Denizens could forego all the goofy home-spinning and stay focused on the heart of the blog

You disappoint me old Lefty. I thought we were buddies. But now, I’ll have to ask: Does your moniker imply that only the left side of your brain is functioning?

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

Lineup: 1. Willie, 2. KJ, 3. Chipper, 4. Teixeira, 5. Francoeur, 6. Andruw, 7. Escobar, 8. Corky, 9. Budster.

By SourPatchKid

August 18, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Had some business down off North Druid Hills yesterday, and stopped in at the Havana Sandwich Shop on your suggestion. That was a mighty fine cuban sandwich. And having spent the past 5 years in school in New Orleans, that place reminded me of many of my favorite dives. Next time I’m in the area I’m going there to try something new.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

Paladin, funny that you will not talk to me about anything, but you sure can’t get enough of talking about me. You are a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an idiot. A guy that spends 24 hours a day on a baseball blog, doesn’t speak a word about baseball, and doesn’t even know who Chone Figgins is, even though the Braves were rumored to be attempting to acquire him when they were talking to the Angels about Adam LaRoche.

By KC

August 18, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

old lefty: Thanks man. I think they can definitely go 26-14 the rest of the way. Not sure what you mean 104 wins though…

By TampaBrave

August 18, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

How about a quick jaunt across the diamond out to the foul pole in your birthday suit. That ought to wake ‘em up. I’ll bail you out dude. We need a polarizing event that triggers the Braves to play at another level. Nothing could be more polarizing than watching Jeff Francouer run like hell when you approach. And Paladin will be there with his 1960 polaroid camera to record you buck-naked for all denizens to revere. Dude, you’ll be a legend!!

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

Blake Brodie, thanks for catching the typo….

SourPatchKid, you gotta try the roast beef plate, smothered in grilled onions with rice and black beans. That, to me, is the best thing on their menu at Havana, though the chicken dishes are all great, too.

By bravesfan

August 18, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

LINEUP’S 1. W Harris, LF 2. K Johnson, 2B 3. C Jones, 3B 4. M Teixeira, 1B 5. J Francoeur, RF
6. A Jones, CF 7. Y Escobar, SS 8. C Miller, C 9. B Carlyle, P

1. C Young, CF
2. O Hudson, 2B
3. E Byrnes, LF
4. T Clark, 1B
5. M Reynolds, 3B
6. S Drew, SS
7. C Snyder, C
8. J Salazar, RF
9. M Owings, P

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this

KC, you predicted a 26-14 finish. I think it is certainly possible, and given the talent on this team, almost should be expected. My only concern is that the Braves have not played at that pace since the early stages of the season. I hope they can do it. I guess the bigger question is….is 90 wins enough?? It seems like the Diamondbacks are going to win the West. No team in the Central is going to win 90 games. Will the Phillies and Mets win 90?? If the Phillies go 25-16, they win 90. If the Mets go 22-19, they win 90. The Phillies are hot. They are 18-8 in their last 26 games…and they will be getting Utley, Victorino, and Bourn back. The Mets are 16-11 in their last 27 and have been hitting well since Alou came off the DL. I see no reason why the Mets will not go at least 22-19 to end the season.

So will 90 wins out of the Braves be enough??

By Braveheart

August 18, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave I don’t know which I would dread more: running naked in front of 40,000 people or Frenchy coming after me like a maniacal free safety and knocking my lights out Ronnie Lott style.

If you want something polarizing, how about someone giving Bobby Cox a pair of mittens to wear tonight so he can’t pick his nose?

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

Talk about struggling with the jump: Braves 1B prospect Kala Kaaihue’s nickname is K.K., and that’s been appropriate since he moved from Class A Myrtle Beach to Double-A Mississippi.

He hit .298 with 22 homers, 61 RBIs and a .992 OPS (.410 OBP) in 89 games at Myrtle.

At Double-A? Uh, not good. He’s 10-for-72 (.139) with no homers, seven RBIs, 37 strikeouts and a .437 OPS (.220 OBP) in 20 games.

For the season, he’s got 129 strikeouts in 381 at-bats.

In the latest Baseball America, he’s rated the seventh-best 1B prospect in all the minors.

I think I might have to move that little note up to the original blog.

By KC

August 18, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

I think Cox is a great manager… but I just don’t understand his reasoning sometimes.

Why wouldn’t rest McCann when Smoltz or Hudson is pitching, and you’re not likely to need as much offense????

By Old Lefty

August 18, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

Paladin … I will try to mourn the lose with dignity. But, old friend, you will be sorely missed.

It’s either that or get into some esoteric ruminations about the bicameral organization of the human central nervous system I suspect neither of us is qualified to pursue. Besides, I would be disqualifying myself vis a vis my own original post.

I still think .650 the rest of the way is waaay do-able. It might be as simple as the entire roster just returning to average, esp. AJ, and Soriano.

By TampaBrave

August 18, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

Savannah

Don’t see a 4:13. What was it?

KC

Good stuff. Good job young feller.

By Lew

August 18, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave-My point is that we have sufficient personnel capable of handling the lead off position-if not as the best in the business, at least as the upper tier. What the Braves most glaring need will be next season is revamped pitching. I know that you agree with that assessment-at least to a point. Now there will, in all likelihood, be some money available to remedy this situation, but I seriously doubt there will be enough to take care of pitching, Teixeira, AND a position that is already adequately filled. I’m not worried about replacing Andruw, either. I’m firmly convinced that Francoeur will handle center quite well and between Diaz/Harris and Brandon Jones, Blanco, etc., the corner outfield spots will be filled as well.

By A--ville Ranger

August 18, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

I get it, Webb is good.This idea that a loss last night was a foregone conclusion is bs though.First Cromier pitched a fine game.Second Webb has been beating up on weak offenses before last night.Third GROW SOME NADS!!the batters looked for the most part like they had read the obituary and decided to sleep in.An offense with these hitters should like their chances against anybody not just the weak sisters.

By TampaBrave

August 18, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

Boy, that might be worth watching. Talk about being out of his element.

KC

Ding, Ding, Ding. You are as hot as I wish the Braves were. Agree again. This is getting scary.

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 5:50 PM | Link to this

Chris/Braveheart/Paladin and others who might be interested. Who ever guess it was correct. Chuckie DID stop about 60% of the way through his window installation at Home Depot.

WW Like the ending moniker.

Toilet has been procured, and will be installed while the Braves game blares away on the XM tonight. Wish you all could be there.

Funny how saying that Teixeira would improve our lineup is misinterpreted with meaning we should win at a .900 clip. Add in Tex, take out Renteria, face Webb, I think we are doing OK. Should we have 1-2 more wins…..maybe. Is it time to panic yet? Heck no, we have not been mathematically eliminated yet!

Lew When I get discouraged, I just have to take a look up at Dale on my wall in my office! :-)

the Kool-Aid Drinker imbibes

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this

Keep this in mind tonight…Micah Owings is 0-5 with a 5.70 ERA since June 20.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 18, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

26-14 finish ??????? and pigs can fly ! This team started out 7-1 and have since went 56-56. Ladies and germs , thats 112 straight games of .500 ball. Now , how in the hell are we to expect anything different over the remaining 40 games. I’m predicting a 22 and 18 finish at best , leaving the Braves 86-74 and just short of the playoff’s.

By Mo in the boonies

August 18, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

Haven’t posted in a few days, because I could only see one of the games this week. However I have been reading the blogs. And so have a few comments to make that might be out of date. Someone brought up how La Russa handles the Cardinals. One reason is, he has a computer in the dugout during the games, and consults it regularly for stats on pitchers and hitters, (who throws what, and who can, and can’t hit what) before he makes any changes. As opposed to BC who has a small, dog-eared notepad jammed into his back pocket.

Umpire Supervisors They exist?

FanWithNoName Re: Robert’s so called disrespect of BC, it is difficult to be respectful of some one, if one doesn’t respect them. Keeping a civil tongue is one thing, but respect has to be earned. I am neither a Kool-aid drinker nor a Fair weather fan, but I thought everyone on this blog had a right to express their opinion…course I am a newbie and could be wrong.

Wonder which eight teams managed to win against Webb?

Can’t understand why the Rangers are wasting Saltalamacchia on first base…just because that is where the Braves were playing him?

Berigan Thanks for posting the link… enjoyed reading the article on the McCann boys. It is sad though, when one kid makes it and the other doesn’t.

Paladin
Also, I once had a Boxer who didn’t know his yin from his yang, but he was a good dog, never-the-less. LOL, I have a dog like that right now.

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

Lew Biggest problem with improving the rotation is that there are NO decent starters on the FA market, and all teams with extra or expendable starters KNOWS that fact.

So, their offerings will be overpriced, as they were at the July 31st deadline.

I think our best shot (and you know Schuerholz seems to find a way, if possible) is to package Renteria and somebody like Dan Smith or one of the Low A lefties for a #3 type starter. (not necessarily these guys, but guys like Lowry, Robertson, Garland, etc.)

By Old Lefty

August 18, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

Slip of the eyeball, KC. As BravesDave firmly clarifies, and nicely advances the discussion, the number would be 90. And I would add, if we consider the significant number of head-to-heads (6 vs. Muts, 6 vs. Phils), and the relative softness of the remainder, it really does appear likely. Risking a chorus of “duh’s”, those 12 headers loom huge, but we do match well, esp. v. Muts. And 90, I suspect, will be plenty this year of parity and the resultant 6-month pennant race.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

A-Ville, I posted about that stuff last night. Webb has shut down some weak offenses during his scoreless streak - the Nationals, the Dodgers, the Padres. The Braves actually performed the worst against him, with only 2 hits. In addition, the Tim Hudson quote about watching from the clubhouse and knowing the Braves “had no chance” was entirely frustrating. This lineup is supposed to be “built for the postseason”. If they go down so meekly against Webb, what are they going to do in the postseason if they face him twice in one series??

By Savannah Guy

August 18, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Braveheart With mittens, how would the depth gauge (ring) work. Could be harmful…

Tampa 4:13 gone, as it should be. Thanks to whomever made it go away. Hope the poster also went away…for good.

By Paladin

August 18, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

DOB’s name is at the top of this blog and when he, or Carroll, think you are out-ot-line or off-topic you will be “let known”. Believe me, I know. But, if what I say passes their “acid test”, I’ll continue to say it.

My posts, for the most part, are quite short and electrically-cost-effective to scroll pass. Unlike, some of these tomes that are current-consumptive, to say the least.

So, read what you like. Post, or don’t post, as you like. But, leave me the freak alone, or I will show you what “approaching the line” is.

Paladin out!

By witchunterZ4

August 18, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Can”t see this team going 26-14 over the remaining games. But then again I see no team in the N.L. going like that expect the one we are playing tonight.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this

So which is it, people? Is Escobar the man??? Can we trade Renteria in the offseason for pitching??? Or, do we need Renteria to be more than a .500 team???

Just wondering. I don’t think we can have it both ways.

By TampaBrave

August 18, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Could not disagree more on Frenchy in CF. He’s more suited to where he is at. Like playing Salty at first, your experiment would turn out the same. He’s a great player, but not a CFer. A true misallocation of resources on that one. I’m not saying we have to spend a fortune either, though in MLB, that statement doesn’t hold much water. I just want a guy who can bat .275, take pitches, get walks, and steal bases.

We do agree on the pitching, though I don’t know where it will come from. Any Japanese phenoms left in Japan? Hopefully, someone will emerge from within.

By Ron

August 18, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave Well Excuse me for being a during the game Blogger!!! My bad dude!!! And you said I threw a Brick at you last night!!! Well you threw the first stone a few weeks ago calling me a fool, and other names like that!!! Yeah I said something back to you, but I wanted to say something again!!! I just remember hearing you whine EVERY SINGLE time we lost a game by 1 run, 2 runs, 3 runs or whatever!!! You said Tex would be the ANSWER to games like that!!! I know that YOU did not think we would win EVERY game!!! That is just NOT possible, BUT YOU thought we WOULD win these games!!! I just got sick and tired of YOU complaining about not having Tex, and NOW we have him, and we STILL lose these games!!! I am NOT saying he has stunk, because he has been good for us, just not winning like YOU thought we would be!!! You were wrong, but you know what, You are wrong MOST of the time anyway, so whatelse is new!!!

By Old Lefty

August 18, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

BravesDave … one man’s opinion: talents like Escobar do not come along often. We should commit to him and watch him flourish into an All-Star and more. He, like any rook, will make a mistake here or there. Hopefully, they aren’t all game-threatening as some have been already. But I daresay we won’t see him make the same kind of mistake twice, and soon they just won’t happen anymore. This kid is money. Hate to invoke the old bromide, but Renteria? … trade him while we can still … yeah.

By Savannah Guy

August 18, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

For those that haven’t seen it, here’s the link to a really nice, human interest and baseball story by Charles Krauthammer on Rick Ankiel of the Cardinals.

http://www.townhall.com/columnists/CharlesKrauthammer/2007/08/17/thenaturalreturnstost_louis

By Train Wreck Bystander

August 18, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this

Someone Has To Win The East Why Not Us?

I wonder if it would fit legibly on a bumper sticker…

=====

I am not comfortable with Escobar at SS yet. I still think Edgar is the man.

By A--ville Ranger

August 18, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

BravesDave I share your concern intirely.I’m really wondering if this team has the makeup needed.There’s still time let’s hope they get just as mad as hell and don’t take it anymore(blatant plagiarism acknowledged).

By KC

August 18, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

Braves Dave: Good question. I think this team is capable of better than 26-14. I could easily see them winning 92 games. But 90 wins is something I’m comfortable predicting (not that I know &%#$ about anything… just making a few predictions for the helluvit).

As for the Braves not having played at that clip since early in the season… there are numerous reasons why I believe they’ll play well over .600 baseball.

First of all, while they’ve gone 8-7 in August since the Tex/Mahay trade… as I sort of said in my 4:42 post, I think they very easily could have gone 10-5 this month, and would have gone 9-6 with Cormier instead of Reyes.

But in a nutshell, here is why I think this team will play well over .600:

• I believe Lance Cormier is going to be a quality starter for us, plugging the Braves’ most glaring hole. I’m not ready to bet money on him, but I have a good feeling there.

• I think James will pitch much better than he has lately.

• The Braves stand to benefit more from the expanded September call-ups than any other team in the East. I say that because the Braves have multiple legitimate big league relievers waiting at AAA.

• Renteria will be back soon.

• The Braves schedule is very favorable. After this Arizona series is over (and Sunday’s game is a *very favorable matchup)… 25 of the Braves’ remaining 38 games will be against losing teams or the Brewers (one 3 game series), who are sinking fast. *The other 12 games btw, are against only NY and Phili… so there’s an opportunity there.

Also, in regard to the schedule… Starting this next road trip against the Reds, the Braves will miss Harang’s turn in the rotation. Then they’ll play the Cardinals, who only have one starter with an ERA below 4.98… Adam Wainright (11-9, 4.01 ERA). Wainright will pitch in that series, but he’s scheduled to be opposed by Tim Hudson.

If Dotel can get healthy and pitch as he did before he gets here, that would also be a big plus. But in the end, I think that if Cormier pitches well and the Braves stay reasonably healthy… the Braves will have the best team in the division.

By TampaBrave

August 18, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

RON,

Don’t recall calling you a fool but reading your rationale, I could see it happening. As for whining, I believe I quoted the stats that showed we were losing too many games where we scored 3 or less. To use Brandon Webb’s performance as the springboard to your tirade, I can only conclude that you really don’t know what’s going on. Do you realize that Tex’s impact has probably saved us 2 or 3 games in the standings? It’s too soon to measure the impact of Tex, but the players think he’s made a big difference, especially Chipper and AJ, and 99% of everyone I talk to thinks the same thing. You are the 1%. Your rants are the epitome of whining. Now let it go.

By Savannah Guy

August 18, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

The Daily Buzz (Fly on Wall Report No. 016)

Mr. Fly, sleuth reporter has just checked in for the first time in weeks. His first words were, “reports of my demise were greatly exaggerated”. Rumors have been rampant. He added, “Before I post another Daily Buzz report I wanted to clear the record and put this crazy mystery to rest”.

Chipper Jones recently came to Fly’s defense, by chiming in on the rumors and innuendo a few weeks ago when he said, “My comments about Alex Rodriguez and Mr. Fly were misrepresented and sensationalized”. What New York’s tabloid newspapers didn’t print was the rest of Chipper’s quote, “they got the Fly murder mystery story wrong, but what can you expect from those fly-by-night Met reporters? They butchered the story, juxtaposed and discombobulated the facts, mismanaged the use of the binomial distribution yields that these probabilities proffered…and even tried to kidnap my friend…Mr. Fly.” Chipper continued, “The Pharisaical tabloids were just embarrassed that they lost two of their three Metfly reporters. They got swatted.”

After departing New York, under cover and posing as a lapel button, Mr. Fly hung out (on) with his friend Wicky for a few days. Fly is loyal…and he says, “you gotta dance with the ones who fed you”. There were MRI’s to be done on his ailing pal. The forearm scans had to be redone several times, because doctors saw a troubling “spot” on Wicky’s arm. It was later determined that Wicky had no spot and no arm trouble when, after close inspection and scrutiny of digital images, it was discovered that the “spot” actually revealed little wings, legs and antennae.

Yes, Mr. Fly was sticking very close to his pal, even in the MRI tube. After the tests were concluded and proved positive for both of them, Wicky and Fly celebrated by eating a wide swath through Philadelphia, before they parted company and went their separate ways.

Since then, Fly has been vacationing, traveling, dieting, watching William Wallace and Remember the Alamo movies and taking care of some personal buzzness. For the delay, he apologizes to the millions of followers of his Daily Buzz reports (including 3 or 4 humans) and added, “Without the help of Kermit and Miss Piggy, I may now be just another casualty in the ethno-insect cleansing of the world”. When asked what he meant by that, he said with controlled angst, “just swat I said”.

So now, sleuth Fly is back at Turner Field, in the clubhouse and on the job (wall) again, working (eavesdropping) on his next story (buzz). He doesn’t want to bang it out “on the fly”…lest he receive a nasty review like some he received in the past, such as, “dont wont anymore fly humer. dont wanna acknoledge it!!! Your and idiot if you do!!!” Those words can be so hurtful…to the eyes of a reporter.

The Fly abides.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

Paladin, I think you are laughable. You sit up on your high horse (which in your case is probably a miniature pony) and critique everyone who posts on this blog, without fail. Yet when someone does the same to you, you start making threats. I have never posted anything remotely related to you, yet for the past week or so, I have seen my name in your posts too many times to count. If you can’t take the heat, go back to sleep.

Old Lefty, I am with you. I don’t think we can keep Escobar on the bench. I would think we need to take the chance that Escobar could develop into as good a hitter as Renteria (Renteria has significantly more power). But, I only trade Renteria if we are getting a solid #2 starter in return, and I don’t see that happening. Renteria is too valuable and cost-effective to give away for a back of the rotation pitcher. I posted about this simply because I see people blaming the Braves’ lackluster play on Edgar’s injury…even though everyone is saying we can afford to trade him.

By KC

August 18, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

BravesDave: I think Renteria absolutely WILL be traded this winter.

They won’t trade him just to open up an everyday job for Escobar.

And the won’t trade him just to free up his 6 million dollar salary.

Nor will they trade him just to cash in on his trade value this winter.

However, when you put all 3 of those reasons together… he’s outta here. Not that the Braves don’t love him. They do, and should.

But the Braves will need a closer, probably a center-fielder, and if Cormier doesn’t impress over the next 6 weeks plus… they’ll want another starter (even if Hampton’s recovery is going well).

Unloading Renteria’s salary and cashing in his trade value will help to plug those holes. And since they’ve got Escobar, it just makes sense.

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

BravesDave: This is the way it is, since you seem to want to be contrary. It is that unless some minor miracle happens, we can’t trade Renteria during the season. That might happen in the winter.

What IS is that we HAD Renteria, and now we don’t. SO, smart guy, we don’t have the pitcher he might bring, AND we don’t have him. Understand. SO, to be an over .500 club, maybe we need EITHER the pitcher we could get for him, or Edgar back. (and if Edgar comes back and we don’t play .600 ball or better, I am sure you will have some other smart a$$ comments about how I guaranteed it)

Please, you don’t have to be such a jerk about things do you? I know, I know, you don’t like how things are going. Well, heck, neither do most of us on here. But, many of us “kool-aid drinkers” don’t lash out at every little thing like some do, in the name of being critical.

So, get it or not, I really don’t give a rats a$$. It is like arguing with a frickin brick wall.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 18, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this

“Gil, my hot water tank sounded like an airplane engine for about 2 hours so I gave it a break … no hot tub … but, as I’ve indicated we’ve been having problems with our Internet connection … and I did miss the game!” journalist bob

oh, the humanity! journalist bob’s internet comes in through the hot water heater. could explain some of journalist bob’s posts :-)

By Stymied

August 18, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this

Kilroy was here

By A--ville Ranger

August 18, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

KC I’ve gotta say that ‘SUNSHINE BAND’ of yours keeps playing through the rain.

By joebrave

August 18, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

How the he11 are ya guys today? Well I take a couple days in that stink Hole of a city called Nastyville Tennessee.I come back to find My Braves have reduxed…The return to normalism I guess… Hellooooo,to the Homeboy upstairs,While I completely agree with you on acquiring,M.Teixeria,I cannot fathom nary an attempt to pick up T.Armas,J.Towers,etal to kind of shore up the pitching…What in the blue he11 are these guys gonna do when October comes and all you face are every teams Brandon Webbs…EARLY EXIT….Chucky find a third pitch,Andruw go away far far far far away…And Lance cormier?????WHAT IN THE HE11are youi guys thinkin?Oscar should get a crack!!!NOW

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this

Renteria is not the make or break element of this team. He is one component of it. With him in, we have more power in the lineup. We have a better bench (Escobar or KJ). We have more flexibility (less relying on Woodward).

Ultimately, we can’t afford to have two excellent shortstops on our team. Who do you deal, or who do you move to another position? Renteria is NOT going to play anywhere else, and Escobar is not that great of a second baseman. If we keep both, I see either KJ or Escobar going to the outfield.

If we trade someone, I see us adding a part we need (as KC has so aptly outlined).

So, if anyone is not smart enough to figure this stuff out, then I am surprised they were able to figure out how to get on the internet and get to this blog location!

I keep hearing people accuse some of us as guaranteeing certain performances (if we get Tex, or if Edgar comes back or whatever). There are NO guarantees. One of our top players could blow out an ACL in his next game, and where would we be then!! So, quit trying to put words into our mouths. Us kool-aid drinkers just choose to look on the bright side, while some want to pick apart every possible aspect of each and every game.

BTW, Dave O’Brien I think agrees with us kool aid drinkers, for the most part. So, while not trying to put words into his mouth, I think he is a realist, but he also sees that we have a chance. So, I personally don’t think some of you guys are more intuned to the Braves as DOB is. I think I will stick with Dave.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this

KC, I am with you on most points. My only concern is that some of these games on our favorable schedule are starting to look less favorable. I like that we miss Harang, but the Reds are fairly hot right now…winning 8 of 12, I think. The Cards are hot and smelling blood in the Central. They have won 8 of 11. The Marlins always give us trouble. The Braves are 5-7 against the Marlins this season. I agree that the Brewers are quickly falling apart, but we may have to face Sheets in that series…a Braves nemesis. I like our chances against the Mets obviously, but the Phillies are playing us tough since we started 5-2 against them. And those darn Nats are playing very well, too.

I hope the favorable schedule is not a mirage. And again hope you are right. There is no way the Braves should be at home come October.

By Colin

August 18, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

Lets go Braves…we need to start a 9 game win streak right now…2 Dbacks 4 Red and 3 Cards….we should sweep the Reds…

By Colin

August 18, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

We should Trade Edgar for a young pitcher who could be 4 or 5th starter and a prospect.. Then we would have Smoltz, Huddy, Hampton(If Healthy),Buddy, pitcher in the Trade. As you see i dont have Chuck they should try him in the bullpen. Then if Hampton cant go Smoltz, Huddy, Buddy, Chuck, and the pitcher they traded for.

By A--ville Ranger

August 18, 2007 7:14 PM | Link to this

This D-Back team may be the only one in the NL with any real belief in themselves.If our Bravos had their heart they’d be a force.Who knows perhaps they’d stop hiding under their beds when big ole scarey guys like Webb pitch.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

Wayne, my point was simple. We can’t use Escobar as an excuse for not playing well since the Teixiera trade. He has hit well. He has also played very well on defense (yes, a few mistakes, but he has also gotten to a lot of balls that Renteria does not get to). Escobar is not the reason that this team is playing .500 ball. And if he is, then we shouldn’t be so anxious to trade Edgar over the winter. And just a note…we were playing .500 ball when Edgar was in the lineup, too.

So yes, we have not seen Edgar and Tex in the same lineup outside of a part of one game, but Yunel has performed pretty well so far. Maybe when Edgar comes back, things will look better, but that is all the more reason not to trade him.

By Ron

August 18, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave Dude for ONE thing I have not said that Tex stinks!!! He has done good for us offensively and for the MOST part good defensively!!! Dont put the 1% crap on me dude!!! You have a BAD memory if you dont remember calling me a fool and starting all of this!!! You dont even remember your own stinkin posts!!! I can see why you dont remember your own trashy posts, because its full of trash!!! I can smell it from here!!! Just admit it dude, you were wrong!!! You EXPECTED to win games like this NO MATTER WHO THE PITHER IS!!! You cant whine about nothing no more because you were wrong!!!

By A--ville Ranger

August 18, 2007 7:22 PM | Link to this

F* Favorable schedule,f* hoping we miss the better pitchers.I want this team to pi$$ fire,I want them to say bring’em on.This bunch shouldn’t fear any team.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 7:22 PM | Link to this

Well, there is your run Buddy. Now go out there and win it.

By Stu

August 18, 2007 7:22 PM | Link to this

I honestly think some of you guys are too excited about Escobar being a star of the future.

He’s hitting as well now as he ever will. He has almost no power; everything he’s hit this summer has fallen in, which is great, but I fear it won’t last. I think he’s a .280 hitter who won’t steal bases or hit for power, and who’ll play well but won’t be a superstar in the field. He really doesn’t have speed or power.

Lillibridge is the better prospect.

Braves should maintain the status quo at short next year, with Edgar starting and Escobar backing up 2nd, 3rd and short, and plan to start Lillibridge in ‘09 (let him play another year at AA/AAA in ‘08).

Sure, if they can trade Edgar for a topline starter, they should consider it, and adjust as needed.

I hope Escobar keeps hitting like this, but I don’t think it’s likely - and even now, his OPS is just league average.

By TampaBrave

August 18, 2007 7:24 PM | Link to this

I think its time we faced the fact that we just can’t pencil in Smoltz after this year. Just how much more can he ask of his body? His heart will go on forever, but age has caught up with him. If anything, I think we are going to have to get used to seeing a JS that is lesser than we are used to. No hate rants please, JS is my favorite player.

By Fat Elvis

August 18, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this

Priscilla, you missed it. Chipper was TCB in a flash.

By eric the elder

August 18, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this

Things seem a little ill-tempered this evening. On a more positive note, I say we sign John Sciambi to a long-term contract. I think he’s terrific.

By Colin

August 18, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

Good night atl

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this

Nice, two-run double by the opposing pitcher. Just excellent.

By TampaBrave

August 18, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

RON,

Obviously, you are a child or immature youngster, so I will do the adult thing and let you burn yourself out. No more posts will be answered until you grow up. You will only be annoying everyone else, so best to let it go.

By Stephen

August 18, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

Does Tim Hudson have to pitch every god damn day for us to win?

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

JoeBrave, “stinkhole of a city” is how you describe Nashville? I love Nashville, man. Guess we’ve got different tastes. You try the Loveless Cafe for breakfast? The Station Inn for bluegrass?

By the way, “every team’s Brandon Webb?” He’s the reigning Cy Young Award winner and he’s thrown 42 consecutive scoreless innings. Don’t think you’re going to run into many of his ilk, my friend. Not the way his sinker and the rest of his pitches are working right now.

And if the Braves were to run into him in the playoffs, I can assure you, Cormier wouldn’t be facing him. Smoltz or Hudson would.

By Latka Gravas (Met fan again)

August 18, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox diabolical plan is to make opposing pitcher run bases all the way to home. Look at sweat.

Pitcher not as good as Webb and now tired. Braves get three hits tonite!

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

Messy start for the Braves, and now on the field _ wrappers and other trash flying eveywhere. We’ve got a storm brewing, folks. Can feel it.

By Dorathy

August 18, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

This team doesn’t have anything that my wizard friend can’t fix.All they need is a brain,a heart and some courage.

By Braveheart

August 18, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

eric the elder I agree with you about Boog. A very talented young voice. No schtick, lots of enthusiasm but no false enthusiasm, seems to have the pulse of the fans and the team, well-informed, and easy to listen to. Hate to see Skip & Pete not doing more games but if they have to be gone, Boog should be the voice of the Braves for many years.

By Paladin

August 18, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

I just returned from my dinner break. Bravesdud You can’t let it go, can you? I know you don’t have a sense of humor ‘cause any psychologist will tell you that “sense of humor” is a sign of intelligence. Too bad Cialis doesn’t work on the brain or you could take a double-dose before coming on here, damn yankee.

By A-ville Ranger

August 18, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

DOB OH come on man,Cromier pitched as well as you would expect from Smoltz or Hudson.If this team doesn’t have the moxey to show up against the good pitchers who cares if they make the post season.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

DOB, is there any new rule that would allow Smoltz or Hudson to hold the Diamondbacks to negative runs??? On the evidence of last night, that is what it would take for Hudson or Smoltz to beat Webb head-to-head.

By Stephen

August 18, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

I hope this game is rained out.

By Ron

August 18, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

I know we can come back in this game!!! Come on now lets the job done!!! Down 4-1 going to the top of the 3rd inning!!! Well even DOB said it is time to worry if we dont do something in this series and the series against the Giants!!! I hope we dont end up going 3-3 in these games!!! Now it is a rain delay!!! When it rains it pours!!!

By dan

August 18, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

I am going to have a very sour feeling in my stomach if we do not win this series. It seems to me that the Braves are a one-two, two-one-, two-three, three-two team. This means, we haven’t put on a strong winning streak at all this year.

We need to put on a 10-game win streak if we want to win this division. Now is the time to start.

By Old Lefty

August 18, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

We have what we need to get to 90+ and the Division. I don’t think anyone (correct me if I am wrong) is suggesting the impossibility of doing anything to trade Rents this season … is there? That’s ‘08 stuff. Get Edgar back asap without rushing his leg and let Escobar finish the apprenticeship.

But it hardly makes sense to keep them both after this year if we can package ER for a quality starter going into next.

TiVO time … Andale Bravos.

By Fat Elvis

August 18, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

Priscilla, God is a Braves fan and is TCB right now, sending the rain ATL way to break the DBack momentum.

By Savannah Guy

August 18, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

The rain is a Godsend for so many reasons…

By Ron

August 18, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave Dude your are the child!!! I am no child, and I dont act like one either!!! Just ignore me, fine with me!!! I ignore most of your posts NOW anyway, because you cant complain about NOT having Tex anymore!!! Too bad you dont have much of an IQ!!! Then we MIGHT could have a good argument!!!

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

A-ville Ranger, OK. I guess we’ll see you next year, bud. We’ll let you know if anything to come back for later in September, but you’re probably right. Let’s get it over with. You and BravesDave, let’s just end it, OK? Cool. I’m with you.

By the way, BraveDave, do you base your opinion of a situation on one game always?

Did Webb give up any runs earlier this season, or has he had a 0.00 ERA all year? Just wondering. Because it would appear it’s possible to have a great run by a pitcher, then be very hittable for a while. Kinda like Hudson was before his current 8-0 streak.

By h_charles

August 18, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

Unless this team miraculously obtains a solid starter, there is no postseason in the future.

The back end of this rotation is just not good enough to sustain a winning streak of any length.

By Ron

August 18, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

So much for the Rain delay!!!

By submariner

August 18, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

It’s over. They can’t pitch well enough to run down the Mets. They’re only hope is to get the wild card, and I agree with DOB, the back end of the rotation is just not good enough.

By jbutler

August 18, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB….I can’t watch the game right now…but curious- was the trash on the field from the natural elements, or the fan-element?? Not the best start- but maybe the rain delay is the perfect antecdote. Gotta run take the kids to a party. Adios..

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 18, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

The Braves almost traded Bob Wickman for Kyle Farnsworth but could not get the Yankee’s to eat 70% of the remaining 5.5 million owed to him in 2008 , hmmmmmm. I guess money is still an issue for the Braves.

By Paladin

August 18, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I can come up with something more creative when you and the other brain-deads get off the “naps” and “meds” like they are knee-slappers. They aren’t and besides, I put them out there. Challenge! Come up with something original. We are waiting.

And for creativity: I didn’t say yankee. I said Damn yankee.

By Wayne

August 18, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

I don’t know what to make of this so I’ll just tell you all what I saw.About an hour before last night’s game my friend Garth and me got lost in the stadium.We came to a locker room and saw a bunch of guys in Braves unis.They were kneeling in front of a guy in a D-back uni with the name Webb on the back.They were all saying we’re not worthy,we’re not worthy,we’re not worthy over and over.

By Ron

August 18, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this

DOB Dude Cormier gave up ONLY 1 run in 7 innings!!! You honestly THINK that JS will pitch that good!!! JS IS the Man, but dude he aint right and EVERYBODY knows it!!! Heck If JS gives up 2 runs in 7 innings thats a DAMN good start for him!!! Guess what? If we win the Wildcard(Which I think we WILL) we will MORE THAN LIKELY face Arizona!!! And Arizona OWNS us!!! Who cares IF we own the Mets, we won’t have a Chance unless we can beat Webb at least ONCE!!! We will face Webb twice!!! I know he is pitching Great right now, but he is a Great pitcher!!! You act like IF Smoltz pitched last night, we WOULD have won the game!!! Dude I dont know what is going through your head right now!!! Cormier pitched GREAT through 7 innings!!! He pitched as good as ANYBODY we have last night!!! I cant understand what you are getting at!!! Maybe YOU can explain so that 90% of this blog can comprehend what the All mighty DOB says?

By Braveheart

August 18, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Aville Ranger Brandon Webb is just on one of those Hershiser runs right now. The playoffs might be different.

If you remember those Yankee teams you are talking about, the 2001 Yanks ran into Unit and Schilling and were humiliated in the first two games, scoring 1 and 0 runs. They won the third game by scoring only 2 runs. They could do nothing in the fourth game against Schilling, scoring only 1 run through the first 8 innings before Tino hit that 2 run homer off Kim to tie it up in the ninth and then Jeter had his Mr. November moment in the 10th. Then in Game 5, they scored 0 runs through the first 8 innings and then Brosius had his dramatic moment with that homer off Kim in the ninth. Then in Game 6, they got killed and only scored 2 runs. Then in Game 7, they barely scraped two runs with Soriano hitting a dramatic home run in the 8th before Mariano blew the save. If you remember that game, Oneill desperately tried to run out a triple to get a spark going but was thrown out by 15 feet. That’s probably the grit of Oneill you are speaking of.

But the point is that when you face tough teams with tough pitchers, you are gonna have a really hard time scoring runs. The Yankees would have probably lost that series 4 games to 1 if the DBACKS did not have one of the worst postseason closers of all time in Kim.

So, I would not get all upset about not hitting Webb yesterday because he is just on one of those Orel runs. And I would not say that not hitting him means all hope is lost for the playoffs because even good teams like the 2001 Yankees have an almost impossible time against great pitchers like Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling. But one or two great pitchers don’t mean you can’t win. Sometimes they have BK Kims waiting to get pounded. If Mariano slammed that door shut, the Yanks would have somehow been the World Series champs that year.

As much as I love Oneill, these 2007 Braves have alot of guys on their team that could be Oneills, Tinos, Jeters, Sorianos, Bernies, Brosius - Chipper, Tex, Edgar, KJ, Frenchy, BMac, Yuni, Willie, Diaz

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Feels pretty good out here now. That storm made the place a bit cooler, and the crowd is quite large, which is a bit surprising, frankly.

By ncscoots

August 18, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this

This team doesn’t have anything that my wizard friend can’t fix.All they need is a brain,a heart and some courage.

I don’t believe L. Frank Baum would have given Dorathy (sic) more than one book if he had known she would make THAT post on the Braves/MIB, LOL.

Of course, she throws like a girl, so expectations of a clue are probably overly optimistic. :-)

By Wayne

August 18, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this

Now you’re being a wise-a$$.You usually keep a fairly good balance but if you think the poor effort last night was insignificant you’re slipping.

By Braveheart

August 18, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

Wayne Did you and Garth sing Bohemian Rhapsody in the car on the way to the game?

By Chone Figgins

August 18, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this

“Braves”Dave Did you misunderstand me? In that case, sir, you can still eat me!

By Ron

August 18, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

What a freakin surprise!!! We have a guy at second base with LESS than 2 outs and we dont score!!! Unfreakinbeliveable!!!!!!!!! This is why we CANT go on a 10-2 tear!!! Because we ALWAYS leave a runner on second or third with LESS than 2 outs!!! Same Sh!t different night!!! This is becoming a Broken record!!!

By Stephen

August 18, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

This is so pathetic.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

No, DOB, I don’t base my opinions on one game. But I do base them on actual games. I don’t base them on gut feelings that tell me suddenly the Braves are going to change from a .500 team over their last 112 games to a team that plays .700 baseball over the next 40 to make the playoffs. I have said nothing but that I hope that happens. I really do. But at the same time, as I said earlier, if the Braves are going to lose games which they should win based upon matchups, they are going to have to win games that they should lose based upon matchups. Everyone always says that any team can win on any day, but suddenly we are supposed to believe that the Braves should have just stayed home last night because they had no shot at beating Webb??? Give me a break.

Obviously, my post about Smoltz and Hudson giving up negative runs was sarcasm. I guess only certain bloggers are allowed that bullet in their arsenal.

Home run given up to the pitcher. This Braves team is on fire.

By Ron

August 18, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this

Now we are giving up homers to the Damn pitchers!!! LOL!!! What a surprise!!! Game Over!!! Lets TRY and win tomorrow so that we DONT get swept!!! Anybody worried YET?

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this

Micah Owings, take a bow. The kid from Gainesville, Ga., just CRUSHED one, his second homer of the season. Oh, and he’s also pitching a one-hitter through three innings.

To reiterate, that ball was CRUSHED to left field.

By A-ville Ranger

August 18, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

That Wayne post is mine it was meant for DOB.This is for all of you.If you think that sad effort last night is ok you’re delusional about what it’ll take to win in the post season.I guess you expect Smoltz or Hudson to hold a team to negative runs,that’s what it would take to win when you don’t score.It’s not just that they were shut out on two hits.It’s the way they did it.

By BubbaAllred

August 18, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

How do you guys feel about the effectiveness of our pitching coach? I don’t here much about him one way or the other. I’d love to have Mr. Oriole back for next season.

By Del

August 18, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

I feel the frustration level reaching new highs for the year.

This team at times, plays like it has a roster full of rookies who haven’i learned how to win yet.

I don’t know what the answer is, but somebody better figure out something pretty quick or it’s going to be too late!!!

By Paladin

August 18, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

I’m going to bed. Pull ‘em through. And remember, those of you who want to take absentee-shots, I get up before you do. What goes around, comes around.

By Ron

August 18, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

This pitcher is CY Young!!! Oh wait thats our offense thats making him look like CY Young!!! Ohhh ok I see now!!! Yep Good Thing Tex swings at three pitches and looks horrible against this guy!!! Yep maybe we will score 4 or 5 runs this game, at least somebody has told me that Tex WILL help us score that in every game basically!!! Yeah wonder who that dummy is? LOL!!!

By bullet36

August 18, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB. I tried that CAO Brazilia you recommended on here a couple weeks ago. I thought it was outstanding, even to a newbie like myself. Got any more cigars you can recommend along those same lines?

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

Owings’ brother Jon is a Braves minor leaguer hitting .246 with 14 homers (and 84 K) for Rome.

By Tomahawkin' Again

August 18, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

Instead of the game, I just have that youtube video playing on an endless loop. A helluva lot more entertaining than what we’ve seen the last 3 days. Wake me when we have more hits than errors.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

OK, so let’s recall what I posted earlier tonight, before the first pitch. Micah Owings is 0-5 with a 5.76 ERA since June 20 - that is two months. Tonight, he has gotten through the unstoppable Braves offense on 45 pitches in four innings with 6 strikeouts. He has given up 1 hit. He has more hits than he has given up.

So, again, this is a matchup you would expect the Braves to win. Doesn’t look good. 4 runs in the last 22 innings. Can’t blame this one on Brandon Webb or Tim Lincecum (who is still a ROOKIE by the way).

By bill

August 18, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

Here I go again, being negative. I said that Buddy’s Bubble has Busted. He has been lucky. He’s not the answer. The Braves need about three SP for next season. Where are they coming from? The SP gives up early runs and it puts pressure on the offense and they can’t recover. I hope they go for a total overhaul next season. Go Braves, I haven’t given up yet.

By And That Is Why

August 18, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

What an awesome offense by the Braves! What a great pitching performance by Carlyle the last couple of outings and the same for Chucky James!

Oh and someone tell the offense that this nose picker isn’t Brandon Webb!

Of course if he kicks the Bravos butts tonight the manager and scribes will make this guy out to be the second coming of Cy Young.

Kelly likes sleeping in his own bed in ATL. He is so comfy he has a hard time making contact in home games.

Playoff team?? This team realistically has to go on like a 16-4 run to get into any serious contention.

So since they haven’t really come close to doing that since April, what makes anyone think they will do it now?

There’s nothing wrong with not being the best team in your division. It just gets pretty funny watching all the people post here who are practically guaranteeing this team is gonna get hot and win it.

We’re still only 2.5 back. I mean 3.5 back. I mean 4.5 back. I mean possibly 5.5 back after tonight.

So tell us…. when is this team going to play differently than they have all year? When are they going on that 16-4 streak that is going to put them in the playoffs? Who are the pitchers on this team who are going to allow you to go on a run like that?

Lots of questions I know. But hey… the Mets aren’t that good and neither are the Phillies…..so it’s going to work out…..right?

By EasyThere

August 18, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

Ron Why!!! do you have to use!!! three exclamation points!!! after!!! everything you say!!!! Try the decaf, buddy.

By N8

August 18, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

DOB

I’m AMAZED that Webb has extended his streak to 42 innings. It might be a little early to be thinking about Orel’s record.

But that would be pretty amazing for that record to be broken. Because quite honestly, in this day and age (with smaller parks, good advanced scouting, steroids, etc…), that is one of the records that I thought would NEVER get broken.

It still probably won’t considering he’d likely have to extend his streak over his next 3 starts.

But VERY impressive, none the less, IMO.

On a side note, (what…you thought I would post something positive, without adding some negativity?), this team is REALLY struggling right now. Fairly tough to watch (listen to).

I think the part that worries me more than anything, is the sloppiness that has been going on, whether it’s baserunning, or fielding.

I think you all know that losing is not what gets my goat, it’s losing ugly that is hard to accept. But what gets lost (even by me), is that this team is extremely young and it shows. But it just seems that we’ve lost more games “ugly” the last 2 years, than we did in all of the 90’s combined. But I guess that goes hand in hand with having a young team.

There’s always next year, right?

Either way, whether you believe me or not, it’s been enjoyable watching the young guys play. I would rather miss the playoffs with young exciting players, than make the playoffs and choke with an expensive, veteran payroll, like we did when Sheffield was brought in and many other teams before him.

Just time to reflect and TRUELY appreciate the greatness that was the rotation in the 90’s. Unfortunately, for the next 20 years (or however long it takes to find a trio that even REMOTELY resembles what we had), whatever group of pitchers we have is gonna have to attempt to live up to those expectations.

We may never see a trio of pitchers like Maddux, Glavine and Smoltz on ANY team ever again, much less on the Braves.

But that doesn’t mean that a team can’t win. I, unfortunately, STILL think that this isn’t the group of guys to get it done this year.

I truely believe our fate was sealed the moment Gonzo went down for the year, and Soriano came back to earth. Because face it, JS built this team this year on the assumption that those two along with Wickman would for the “Big 3” of bullpens in all of baseball. Once that experiment failed (which doesn’t mean it was the wrong move), we were destined to struggle.

The trade for Tex, IMO, will benefit us next year, more than it has this year (even though he’s been just fine and then some). Because, his bat will help relieve some of the (ahem) “loss” when Andruw is not retained.

So while that move gave us one of the better lineups in the NL, it still didn’t do anything for the pitching.

Now that we’re 4.5 back in the East and falling in the WC, it’s gonna take one hell of a 2 week stretch (along with many teams losing) for us to cover some ground, and quite honestly, it doesn’t take someone as perpetually negative as myself, to realize that this team isn’t constructed (due to the pitching), to reel off any 10 game winning streaks.

I guess it’s time to give it the old college try for the rest of August, and if we’re too far out on September 1st, then it will be time to let the September callups play a little and get a glimpse of what we can “look forward to” next year.

If it sounds like I’ve given up, I really haven’t yet. But it’s not looking too good right now.

I wonder how our fate might’ve been different had the sale gone through faster and JS would’ve been “allowed” to sign Glavine without having to trade Hudson?

Quite differently, I’m guessing. But it didn’t and he wasn’t, so too bad for us, I guess.

By A-ville Ranger

August 18, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

Braveheart That D-bACKS / Yankees series was at the end of their great run.O’neill retired at the end of that season and stated he was burned out.Those games against Johnson and Schilling were not a good representation of that Yankees era.My biggest problem with last night’s game is how passively the team seems to accept it.That’s where I say they lack a Paul O’neill.Chipper is a good mentor and teacher as is Smoltz but not the drill sergeant these young guys need now.Glavine was a guy who could tell the team what they needed to hear.Right now they need to be told they’re playing without the heart it takes to win.

By Braveheart

August 18, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

G’nite Paladin, you old hellraisin’ eccentric huckleberry you. Remember no crash landings off the bed.

By Ron

August 18, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

BravesDave Obviously DOB thinks that Smoltz and Hudson would have pitched BETTER than Cormier did through 7 innings!!! When we ALL know that Smolz aint right, but apparently DOB STILL thinks that Smoltz would have pitched better!!! Heck Smoltz gave up 3 runs the other game against the Giants!!! DOB is a funny dude!!! DOB keep up the funnies!!! LOL!!!

By eric the elder

August 18, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

Maybe all this snarly rhetoric is getting to me, but I have to admit there are some things that don’t matter to me.

I don’t care that Owings is from Gainesville. Nor do I care that Willie is from Cairo and Francoeur and McCann are home grown. Nor do I care about the chant, the wave, or the Day-O. Nor do I care about Ron Gant impersonating a bloated, drug addicted rockabilly who died in his own vomit.

What I DO care about are some pitchers who need less than 437 pitches to get through 5 innings, some batters who can be counted on for more than a K or double play when the bases are loaded with no outs, and something resembling fire in the bellies. Maybe I’m too hard to please.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 18, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

rappers on the field? should this be permitted? national anthem, right?

now, baseball … whither the pitching?

grinch is being prepared for the wurlitzer presentation ceremony. baby seal may go, too. will dob offer accreditation? offer cheese? will dob embrace grinch in front of 50,000?

and carroll rogers is okay by this journalist. carroll rogers took a stand against the ugly blogger.

By Stephen

August 18, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

2 Hr’s for the pitcher?

In the words of John Sciambi,

BUDDY CARLYLE HAVE A NIGHT!

By Todd A

August 18, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

“What a freakin surprise!!! We have a guy at second base with LESS than 2 outs and we dont score!!! Unfreakinbeliveable!!!!!!!!! This is why we CANT go on a 10-2 tear!!”

Ron, our offense is beyond frustrating at times.Even downright maddening when Cox decides to stick A- - - - - in the middle of the lineup.But, our very pedestrian rotation is preventing the Braves from getting on any kind of roll.Looks like James and Carlyle are crashing back to earth at warp speed.

Damn, Micah just hit another one.

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

UNBELIEVABLE. This is the greatest hitting night I’ve ever seen from a pitcher. Straightaway CF home run. Two homers and a double for the former Ga Tech kid from Gainesville. Wow.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 18, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

Saltalamacchia just went deep off the Twins and it was a bomb. His second HR in as many games.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

OK, this is officially out of hand now. Two home runs and 5 RBIs to the opposing pitcher???? If there is anyone, besides DOB, left on this blog that does not think this team is finished, I have to give you credit. Your glass is perpetually half-full.

We are now on the verge of 2-3 on this home stand that was supposed to be the Braves opportunity to make a move in the standings, even according to DOB. It is not working out as planned.

By N8

August 18, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this

Nice post at 8:23 BravesDave.

That’s the part that gets me as well. That this team has played essentially .500 ball all season (and last year with the same “core” of players, as well), yet everybody seems to think that this team will suddenly turn it on for a run.

Is our lineup better with Tex? Absolutely.

Good enough to make up for shoddy pitching? Based on our record since Tex arrived, I’d say apparently not.

This is not your Braves team of the 90’s that would play mediocre ball for a couple of months and then reel off 25 victories over 30 games and pull away (or climb back in the race). That’s just a fact. Too young. Too few pitchers with consistancy to do that.

I think it’s asking too much of this team to play .700 ball (as you put it), over any stretch longer than 10-20 games. Add to that, we are now gonna have to hope other teams lose along with us winning at that rate.

Too much to hope for in my opinion.

Had we started playing .600 ball from the moment Tex got here, and continued that, we’d have a different story, but we haven’t. So with every loss that goes into the standings, it’s that many MORE wins we need to catch up. That’s a recipe for failure. Then again, ultimately if this team doesn’t make the playoffs, I’m not sure it should be considered a failur in general.

As Braves fans, we sometimes think our players are better than they are in reality. What fans don’t? But truth of the matter is this:

MOST pundits picked the Braves to be “in the race” but ultimately finish behind the Mets and Phillies. So why are we so surprised that almost 3 weeks into August, we happen to be in 3rd place in the division, yet within striking distance? The way I see it, we’re right where we’re supposed to be. It’s our OWN fault as fans, if we expected more from this team, not the players (other than Andruw).

Sorry, couldn’t post twice and NOT rip on AJ some how or another. :-)

By A-ville Ranger

August 18, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

If you guys don’t get that this game is a carry over from last night’s effort…..well you just don’t get it.

By Todd A

August 18, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

Man, what a beat down. When a team is hitting this many bombs off your pitching staff the last two years, I can’t see why we don’t throw some knock down pitches. We need to send this team a message…one way or another. Oh, forgot, Cox has too much class. Let’s just keep sitting it on a tee for their .240 hitters.

By StingerSplash

August 18, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Is it a bad sign if the opposing pitcher is 3-for-3 with three extra base hits and five RBIs? Is it a bad sign when you have more errors than baserunners after five innings? I will try to be optimistic, especially since the Phillies and Mets are not juggernauts, but it is going to be difficult to earn the wild card, much less win the division, with 2 1/2 pitchers. We all know there is nothing on the market — and what is there to say about any pitcher who clears waivers at this date — and, giving JoJo Reyes’ initial foray into the starting rotation, there ain’t much to summon from the minors this year, either.

By JasonInMaine

August 18, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Those two games we let get away in Philly loom evev larger…

I know the d-backs have been hot, but not because of their bats…we are making them look like the 27 Skanks…

I guess the no BP appraoch rather than hitting in the heat isn’t really working out all that great…

Who is this guy we are facing? The braves need to go on a run, and t needs to be soon…

By And That Is Why

August 18, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Sore arm #1. A Cy Young like #2. 3-4-5-6 guys after impersonating major league pitchers.

Go Braves!!!!

And NO, JOE SIMPSON! The offense has NOT been there every night!

By bravesfan

August 18, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Well we are 5 1/2 games back now better hope Oswalt shuts down the Padres. So lets see now we need a # 3, 4, and 5 pitcher. I mean 3 errors already come on does this team wanna win. I thought they said they were built for the World Series HA HA thats funny.

By Bob

August 18, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Guys I try to be optimistic and we still are in the hunt for the wildcard, but there are no solutions to this pitching staff. Nine homeruns in 2 1/2 games. Pathetic is much too nice to describe it. Treading water will no longer get it. Maybe we can turn this around on the road by outslugging somebody, but right now we have 3 hits in 1 1/2 games. The D’back pitcher has driven in 5 times as many runs as the Braves have scored in that same period of time. UGLY.

There is time for the wildcard, but the Division is starting to slip away very quickly. And without someone other than Smoltz and Hudson, things do not look good right now. Then again, dawn comes right after the darkest part of the night.

By ijonathan

August 18, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this

DOB Yes my friend, these Braves certainly are playoff-bound. Two legitimate starters, and three other SP’s whose arsenal of pitches include straight-as-an-arrow 88-90 mph fastballs and not much else…and an offense that struggles mightily against decent opposing pitchers?

By Todd A

August 18, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Sorry, I hope Smoltzie puts the first pitch tomorrow in Young’s ribs.This team needs a wake up.

By TNRON

August 18, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

I guess Buddy isnt the next Maddux,huh? This team is absolutely DEAD.We have two starters…PERIOD.And one of them has a bad arm.We are running on fumes.All you heard from the Braves anouncers was THE LINEUP,like the 27 Yankess should blush and once again they stick their heads right up their you know what.Owings isnt Cy Freakin’ Young for crying out loud.It seams that “market correction” has come to Carlyle.Its funny how that seems to work once the advance scouts see a guy a few times.If something does not change,and fast,this team will be lucky to win 82 games.Hardly worth gutting your farm system over.

By BossLady

August 18, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

Well, this is my team. They can win or lose at this point. I’m not giving up on them I just don’t want to worry, sit on pins and needles, be anxious or get an ulcer or heart problems. I like so many of you sit and wait night after night to see if we gain ground on the Muts and the Phillies are gaining. Let’s see when we do win, we have to cuss, pray and beg for Soriano, Wickman to do their jobs. Finally it’s over and we breath a sigh of relief. So, I’ll give the Braves the same choice I gave my first ex-husband either you do or you don’t. That’s That!!!

By ijonathan

August 18, 2007 9:03 PM | Link to this

A few of us gave Cox grief the other night for taking out James for Yates to face the pitcher with two out and nobody on, and James’ spot in the order due up 4th or 5th in the bottom of the inning (still a dumb move, by the way.) Obviously, Cox should have employed that strategy tonight and gone to the pen early and often to face the opposing pitcher. Of course, being Bobby, he employed that unusual strategy in the wrong game.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 18, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this

Braves are losing and the Mets are winning. Salty is going deep but at least the Phillies are losing to. Happy happy ! Joy joy in hotlanta tonight !

By ssiscribe

August 18, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this

Top of the evening, all. Safe to say, it’s a night Micah Owings never will forget.

A product of one of the absolute best baseball programs in the state of Georgia — Gainesville High — I first heard about Owings when he was in middle school. Never saw him play for the Red Elephants (yes, denizens, that’s Gainesville High’s mascot), but kinda followed him through the years.

Somebody from up there asked me a few years ago who I thought was the best high school player I ever saw in person? I said it was a shortstop Gainesville had in the mid and late 1990s, Victor Menocal, state player of the year who played with Teixeira at Georgia Tech and now works for Lonnie Cooper’s camp.

Anyway, the questioner said Owings blew Menocal out of the water. I said no way. Based on tonight, maybe my questioner was correct in his assumption.

Need some help from the scoreboard tonight, then for Smoltz to bounce back tomorrow. We ran into Cy Young last night … and Babe Ruth tonight.

Selah, denizens.

The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Tomahawkin' Again

August 18, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

and then, depression then set in…

By Bob

August 18, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Yeah it has been a hell of a hitting performance for Owens. But the best I ever saw was Tony Cloninger for the Braves in 66 at Candlestick. Two grand slams and a single for 9 rbis. He later barely missed another homerun when Willy Mays caught a drive at the wall.

Up to that time, no player of any type had ever hit two grand slams in one game….in the history of baseball. It may have been done since then, but not prior to that game at Candlestick by Tony Cloninger.

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

A-ville Ranger “Sad effort last night, huh?” You know, it’s easy to hit big league pitching, especially when a the guy ONLY has 40+ innings with nobody scoring. I guess the whole league doesn’t know how to hit.

I can hear it now: “There is a dude on the AJC/MIB/BBQ blog that can help us. His name is A-Ville Ranger! Maybe he can tell us what we are doing wrong.”

Use your head man.

Ron and TampaBrave You guys have gone way beyond interesting. Does the term “brick wall” mean anything to both of you.

When a couple is going through a bad divorce, it is easy to point fingers and say “they started it!” When in fact, by the time you get to where you two are, it BOTH of your fault.

Please, either quit, or take it offline.

By Stephen

August 18, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

Hey, another homer!

By hr

August 18, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

14-23 is easier than 23-14. I think it will be closer to 19-18 the rest of the way. If that happens you know where we will be at the end. 1 run in the last 2 games so far.The Braves can go just so far with what they have & more importantly, the pieces they are missing. I don’t know if the money is there from LM. Remember this is a Tax write off deal, which should not be allowed in MLB.

By Overlord

August 18, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

I guess taking vacation from the braves didnt make any good……. We are toast…… Dead meat.

By Lew

August 18, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

WTF is this-Theater of the Absurd? I hope they get it all out of their system tonight. This is beyond humiliation.

By bravesfan

August 18, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

This is FLAT OUT REDICULOUS

By ijonathan

August 18, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this

When was the last time the Braves developed and promoted a starting pitcher with true top of the rotation stuff…you know, the kind of stuff the “kids” would describe as sick, filthy, etc. Maybe a 96-97 mph fastball, or a dominant 12-6 curveball, or an unhittable splitter. I moved here and started following the Braves closely in 2001 and I certainly can’t remember any since then.

By Todd A

August 18, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this

Diamond Backs are exhibit A why I wanted John Schuerholz to blow up this roster last season.A young team with a bright future that already looks like the class of the National League. I hope we aren’t dreading the Tex trade next year.We’ve committed to treading water as long as BC and JS are here.

Damn, Owings gets another hit and RBI.

By geauxbraves2000

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

And this, fellow denizens, is why I do not think team is capable of reaching the postseason:

1) This vaunted lineup has pounded out a total of 3 hits in two games (so far).

2) The Braves have only two consistent starters, one in whom they score no runs for, the other three are crapshoots.

I hope I’m wrong. I know AZ is a good team, but you have to beat good teams in the playoffs.

Maybe the Braves will go on a tear after this series and go on a .750 pace the rest of the season. Let’s hope so.

Geaux Braves!!

By Old Lefty

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

I take it ALL back. The end is nigh. The sky is, indeed, falling.

Let’s just quit.

By JD

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

As much as people say the pitching has been poor, the offense can suck even more. We’re at 1 run in 20 innings with Smoltz going tomorrow (and we know how they support him). Great job guys.

By A-ville Ranger

August 18, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah Webb had 33 innings of scoreless pitching before our generous contribution.The three teams he got the 33 on were all weak offensively as well.

By Braveheart

August 18, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

Well, I am about to smash the pitcher of Kool-Aid off the wall, so I am going to turn this horror show off.

By StingerSplash

August 18, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

Are the D-Backs trying to erase their run differential in one game?

By Julia

August 18, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

This is a s-p-o-i-l-e-d SHRIMP SAMMICH game.

By mets fan in atlanta

August 18, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

This might be the best game i’ve watched in a while. My buddies (who are braves fans) are making fun of the braves. Really, who lets the opposing pitcher go 4-4 with 2 homeruns and however many RBI? WOW, thats all i can say. By the way the Mets are winning again.

Get used to the saying, wait til next year.

By ijonathan

August 18, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

DOB I’m likely reading too much into some of your posts regarding the game tonight, and you would argue that some of us loyal bloggers are far too negative, but you are exhibing the BC/JS mentality. On a night when the opposing starting pitcher goes, 8 for 8 with 6 HR and drives in 17, the Bobby Cox philosophy is “wow, the kid had a great night, unbelievable, how often do you see that.” When the offense struggles mightily, the reaction is, “wow, that guy had great stuff tonight, couldn’t get a lick off him, that’s why he’s one of the best pitchers out there, etc. etc.” That’s what I’m hearing from you.

Of course, the correct responses from a team that fights and claws and doesn’t give up and doesn’t give an inch and believes it is better than everybody else and gets physically ill when they lose (even to the best opponents).

By BubbaAllred

August 18, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

perhaps arizona’s pitching and hitting coaches are available.

By Braveheart

August 18, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

Todd A, we are not treading water because of BC & JS. We are treading water because AOL/TW were a bunch of cheapskates, leaving us without enough money to have a Tex for a whole season and without enough money to have a quality 3 and 4 starter to go with Chuck, Hudson, & Smoltz.

By ijonathan

August 18, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

Should you be playing the Teixera song in a game where you’re getting embarrased 12-1 and have 1-hit?

By A-ville Ranger

August 18, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah Don’t you have goats to milk or wives to spank ? If you want to get insulting your reasoning from what I read is about as useful as a junior varsity cheerleader’s.

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Todd A Games like this will make even an optimist cringe. A point to make about your post at 9:17pm. Big difference between the Braves rebuilding and the D’backs rebuilding. D’backs weren’t really much good to start. Braves have (except for last season) always contended.

While there were times I would have liked to have seen us go through a “re-tooling” (vs a rebuilding), I don’t think that sort of thinking is anything that John Schuerholz and his organization even entertains.

Now, maybe after two seasons of difficulties, they might reconsider. I think they believed that with Andruw possibly being in his last year here, and with Chipper, Smoltz, and guys like Wickman not getting any younger, it was time to give it one last go of it.

While I do not expect it, I would not be opposed to us shedding some old wood, and giving some youngsters a chance to develop. (Lillibridge, BJones, JoJo, Dan Smith, Blanco, guys like that)

This still doesn’t mean I am going to go all ape-$hit when we lose a tough game like tonight, as MANY on the blog are known to do.

12-3. Comeback time??

“the kool-aid drinker imbibes”

By Marcel duPont

August 18, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Mon Freres:

While Bobby Cox is not appreciated in Atlanta (and practically reviled on this blog), he is much admired in France.

Did you know that he has been made a commander in the Order of Sports and Letters, France’s highest cultural and athletic award? Did you know that not too long ago, he was given the Legion of Honor, France’s highest any kind of honor? Certainly, this was partly for his charity work with the Nasal Dystrophy Association.

In France, Bobby Cox is often called “Le Roi de Tirades”. The French invented the “tirade” and believe that Mr. Cox has raised it to an art form. He is adulated as a genius by both argumentative intellectuals and sports experts.

Unfortunately, here, Bobby Cox is an unexplained paradox: often ridiculed, awaiting a persuasive champion (journalist Jimmy Smith perhaps). This may be due to Cox’s contradictory public persona (egotistical yet insecure, insulting yet sentimental, juvenile yet adult, emotionally naked yet defensive) as much as having won only a single World Series in all these years. The latter does not bother the French, who would rather consistently finish “near the top” than win a championship. In the world cup, they have 12 appearances, but only one victory (1998). The French football team has adapted Bobby Cox’s strategies - e.g. sticking with mid-fielders beyond the point of exhaustion, relying on the “home run” (a long break-away pass) rather than consistently moving the ball up the field. In fact, it was Zinedine Zidane’s Coxian tirade that cost France last year’s cup. When he was kicked out of the game – who do you think made a congratulatory phone call to him. In fluent French!

So, even if the Braves do not make the playoffs this year, when Bobby Cox travels to France he will be mobbed at airports and will be the toast of Paris.

By BravesDave

August 18, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

Everyone, it looks to me like the Diamondbacks are trying to solve that little run differential issue all at once tonight. They were outscored by their opponents by 22 runs coming into tonight…looks like they are shooting to get rid of that tonight.

Just as I type, two meaningless home runs to make the stats look better.

Even Joe and Boog just said that it is time to get concerned at this point. 6 games in the loss column.

By Mets rule You drool

August 18, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Middle of August and your done.

How’s that taste?

Hahahahahahahahaha!!!!

See ya!

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 18, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Braves Nation , meet the real Buddy Carlyle. Journeyman pitcher extraordinaire !

By Vonshawn

August 18, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Leave it to Andruw to hit a meaningless homerun. Hey Druw about coming through when a game is actually in the balance?!

20 million a year for a late inning defensive replacement…yeah right!!

By bill

August 18, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

I give up. I’m throwing in the towel. JS, are you listening? It’s time for a complete makeover. Is it to late to put players on waviers? If not, put these players on waivers, Harris,Diaz,Soriano,Wickman,Thorman, Woodward,and Mahay Bring up B. Jones, Lillibridge,Ring,Devine,Reyes and Ascaino. Activate Dotel and Renteria and include them.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 18, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

NINE RUN RALLY ! NINE RUN RALLY ! NINE RUN RALLY ! NINE RUN RALLY ! Wait , who am I kidding ? It’s not funny anymore.

By And That Is Why

August 18, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

As I said, when a mediocre starting pitcher sticks it to the Braves, Bobby and the scribes say he’s the second coming of Cy Young.

When the Braves pitchers are stinking it up, according the scribes and Bobby, they just made a couple of bad pitches.

I don’t know what stinks worse….. the play of this team or the appologist attitude of it’s manager and some of the people who write about or broadcast the games.

By ijonathan

August 18, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

Ron Mahay? Our only lefty In the 8th inning of a 12-3 game with a day game tomorrow? So tomorrow, if we need to get a couple of lefties out, Mahay may not be 100% fresh. A perfect Bobby night would be to bring Moylan in to pitch the 9th and end up throwing about 40 pitches.

By BubbaAllred

August 18, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this

Hey!!! We finally got Owings out. WHOOOHOOO!

By Double Plays

August 18, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

Those HRS by Francoeur and Andruw are “Aaron” HRS. Meaningless, except for personal stats.

By braint

August 18, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

If you can’t pitch you don’t win….The Braves have 2 pitchers and it’s annoying when their 3rd pitcher doesn’t even look like he cares. Maybe it is time for Chucky to do some homework and find out who the hitters are. No offense, but there is a reason Buddy was pitching in Japan. We’ll win tomorrow and take game 1 vs. the Reds and everyone will be talking about the playoffs….then we’ll trot out our 3-5 starters and lose all 3 or 2 of 3 and be right back where we are today.

Another Bomb by Salty….again, like my previous post from the other day - Why did we trade LaRoche? We’d have the same production at first (LaRoche v. Tex) and still have Salty, Elvis, and all the other talent we sent to Texas to trade for STARTING pitching. Oh, because Gonzalez will shore up our bullpen? Maybe JS needs to have a different doctor look at all these pitchers that we are trading for who end up hurt when they get here (Gonzo, Dotel).

By Todd A

August 18, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

“Todd A, we are not treading water because of BC & JS. We are treading water because AOL/TW were a bunch of cheapskates, leaving us without enough money to have a Tex for a whole season and without enough money to have a quality 3 and 4 starter to go with Chuck, Hudson, & Smoltz.”

Braveheart, my point is that the Braves aren’t going with a youth movement (my preference) as long as Schuerholz and Cox are here.I want to see a team capable of winning a WS again, not a team just good enough to MAYBE get in the playoffs before a quick, and early exit.We have two quality starters, and who knows how much longer Smoltzie can be depended upon as a top of the rotation guy.He’s pitching on guts right now.If we go out and get another starter next year, and John goes down, we’re right back in the situation we’re in now.

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

A-Ville So Webb was just lucky against all those other teams, huh? Don’t think so, my friend. How many guys over the past 100 years have had strings against lousy competition, and how many have thrown over 40 innings of shutout ball? You can count them on one hand.

I really didn’t understand the point you were trying to make on your last post. No goats, but I am caring for a wife who is recovering from surgery, thank you very much (I know you didn’t mean to say anything hurtful.)

What I was trying to say was that it is INCREDIBLY difficult to hit a 90+ mph pitch. Now, compound that with a pitcher whose pitches are moving around, and especially sinking very effectively.

I was not a big sports hero or anything like that in my youth. But, there was a basketball game where I couldn’t miss. I bet I hit 16 out of 18 jumpers from the 18-20 foot range. I was normally a 40-45% shooter. It didn’t matter that day if I had a good look or not, I was on fire. I think we can say that sometimes an athlete gets into a groove, and when he is in that groove, it is nearly impossible to get him off his game. That is where I see Webb.

As far as tonight, who the heck knows what makes a good team look so bad against a young pitcher. Maybe Webb inspired him. Maybe tonight, we just suck.

Dude, I don’t think we are a lot different about our love for the Braves, I just think some of us have more optimism. To be honest, I am almost 52 yrs old, and I think when I was 25, I was a lot less patient.

So, it’s all good!

By brent a.

August 18, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

I’d estimate that I’ve been to roughly 50 Braves games in my short life (which isn’t a bad number since >90% of my life I’ve lived in Kentucky and Texas), but tonight, marks the first time in my life that I ever left a game early due to “hopelesness” (I’ll admit, I did leave 1 game in the 9th, when it was raining, in 2005).

I figured that if Bobby could give up on this one, then I could too.

What exactly did #6 expect Carlyle to do in the 6th inning after giving up his 2nd homerun to Micah Owings? There were no outs, and the top of the order was up, and Bobby leaves him out there.

Then, when he mercifully removes Buddy after 1 more batter, he does a double-switch and puts Woodward in for Escobar. Question: Is Woodward leading off the next inning really any better than Villareal? Seriously, what has Woodward shown you this season that makes you believe that it is worth sacrifcing Escobar’s bat (& glove/arm) just to have him, instead of Oscar, leading off the next inning?

This game was total Bull in my opinion, and I’m just happy that I now live close enough to the ballpark that I can get home in time to catch the 10:00 news.

Peace,

Brent A.

By LT (double A blogger)

August 18, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this

Folks,

C’mon, the Wild Card is still within reach! So we’ve sucked for a few days? Buddy was due to get torched. Webb is flat out owning any team he faces. The season is not lost. The division may be slowly fading from reach. Who cares about the division. This team can beat any of the NL teams in the playoffs in a five game set or seven game set.

Tell you what you buncha Nancy’s. Why don’t you guys go shopping with your wives tomorrow while the game is on.

Else, sing along with me with one of my favorite REM songs……….

Come on aboard, I promise you you won’t hurt the horse

We treat him well, we feed him well

There’s lots of room for you on the bandwagon,

The road may be rough, the weather may forget us

But won’t we all parade around and sing our songs,

A magic kingdom, open-armed…………………………

By big fan

August 18, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this

Unfortunatly the Braves are an 85 game winner. Either 2ed or most likly 3rd place. They lack heart except for two or three guys. The only way they turn it around is for AJ to go on a tear.What are the chances of that?? Better not get your hopes up.

By GermanBravesFan

August 18, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

No matter what happens this season, I still call myself a fan! However, this team makes it very difficult to remain positive and to keep the faith that it’ll make the playoffs.

The good thing is that there are plenty of games left…. Go Braves!

By Fire Bobby

August 18, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

How long are the Braves going to keep Bobby Cox? I know he has done a lot for Atlanta and Braves baseball but IT IS TIME TO LET HIM GO!!!!!!!! There is no excuse for this team to be losing the way they do. Its too relaxed and only someone new can step in and change that. Bobby Cox is like a race horse that starts fast out of the gate but always finishes second or third. I don’t want that. I want to win!!! Am I the only person in this flippin town that thinks changing managers is the way to make that happen? A new skipper and add another starter and we could run away with the NL next year. I do thank Cox for all of the great years but even Lasorda had to walk away at some point. Its your time to follow Bobby.

Walk away for the team.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 18, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

Many new names in the band tonight—but same ol’ tune being played…

By Todd A

August 18, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

“While there were times I would have liked to have seen us go through a “re-tooling” (vs a rebuilding), I don’t think that sort of thinking is anything that John Schuerholz and his organization even entertains.”

No question that JS won’t entertain that idea at the moment.That’s my whole point.But, if this team continues to fade, and, say, finishes in 4th place, he may have to give it some serious thought.

“This still doesn’t mean I am going to go all ape-$hit when we lose a tough game like tonight, as MANY on the blog are known to do.”

Well, I think I’ve exhibited extreme calm tonight, as opposed to the Houston debacle a few weeks ago.That game was a sucker punch to the gut.This one got ugly early.

By dadgum

August 18, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this

Hate to be the one who states the obvious…OK I won’t. Anyway I think it may be time for Cox to sit Andruw. Sit for awhile. AJ is now an offcial drain on the Braves period. Diaz and Harris are platooning in LF but I would have Harris in CF and Diaz play LF. I guarantee you that Harris will make many plays in CF. AJ is just a miserable shell of anything he used to be. His market value is diminishing faster than you can say Scott Boras. He is not in the Braves plans going forward so just sit him awhile. And to anyone who rants about his 75 RBI’s. Think about it. With the Braves lineup anyone batting 4th with a half decent swing will collect 75 RBI’s to date. I would take AJ back but only at say 10 mil per year. He would have to pay for his play. Oh yeah and the fact he could have prevented all this by signing an extension as we said at this time last year he should do. NO wait that’s right he listened to his crack agent. Nevermind. Maybe Tex will take heed of the Andruw thing and sign early with Atlanta. My guess is he will in the off season.

Not that you need to be reminded after tonight’s game but I said it the last few blogs. No offense will bail out a poor defense or pitching. The Braves aren’t dead yet but they are losing games championship teams simply don’t lose and they are losing them often enough that it just isn’t “one of those nights” anymore. The Braves simply don’t have the starting pitching and frankly don’t have the closers either. Now just exactly how are the Braves making the playoffs? I really want them to but just how. Someone, anyone, tell me. I need reassurance. Who are we going to trade for to get the pitching necessary to make up 6 games on the Mets or bump the Phils from the wild card. Help!!!!

Rock on……….remembering Allen Collins.

By A-ville Ranger

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

Todd A this IS a youth movement.I’m negative about the play and attitude this team is exhibiting at this time but there is lots of young talent.They need a really good young starter or two and the pen has to be stablized.There’s nothing wrong with the lineup that a little killer instinct and desire won’t cure though.I don’t know why people care about these wasted runs in the ninth,it’s just window dressing.

By Savannah Guy

August 18, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

Total humiliation tonight is better than another close loss. Close losses allow for rationalizations such as: “a few bad pitches”, “their pitcher was great tonight”, “tough bounce”, “off night”, etcetera and so on.

Braves have always rebounded after one or two of these. Too bad it takes that, but it seems to have been that way for many years, even in the glory days of the 90’s. Bobby’s comfy-club needs that I guess.

Total, unabashed, unmistakable and complete humiliation works every time. Gets’em going. Get’s the snarls in the boys. Get’s their backs up against the wall. Turns them into a team that fights. The players will take matters into their own hands. They will refuse to take this kind of abuse any more when they reach their bottom. Their pride will take a hit and then they will pick themselves up. They will have a team meeting. They will scream and shout. They will work it out among themselves.

They will come back, with determination and grit. They will knock some batters off the plate. They will run their hearts out to catch a ball or steal a base. They will not beat themselves at the plate. They will will themselves to succeed, They will get mad and get mean. They will put heart in it. They will scrap.

They will execute. Then they will win…not before.

In the meantime, pass the Kool Aid…I need a fix.

By Savannah Guy

August 18, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this

Oh, almost forgot…

Elvis has left the building…

By journalist jimmy smith

August 18, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

elvis night was a bust. heartbreak hotel. all shook up. surrender. nothing but a hound dog. crying in the chapel. return to sender. oh, the humanity!

By Savannah Guy

August 18, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

We got our blue suede shoes stomped on. Now we have suspicious minds.

By SourPatchKid

August 18, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

the sky is falling

By A-ville Ranger

August 18, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah Sorry about your wife,I hope she recovers soon.OK back to baseball,who said Webb was just lucky ? I said he had 33 scoreless before last night against weak competition.I also said the effort our guys showed was poor.They had little plate discipine and they seemed to take it way too easy.Oh if you make remarks like those from your earlier post, you shouldn’t expect a mannered reply.

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

I am not sure what you guys are talking about with Elvis leaving the building, but he was spotted in Ogden Utah today, having a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in a local diner.

By Train Wreck Bystander

August 18, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

Please tell me the mirror universe Buddy Carlyle will be back for his next turn in the rotation - you know, the one with the goatee.

Smells like an evil Klingon plot, it does…

By Overlord

August 18, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

I think i finally got it…… if we have any luck we could be wildcard…..

By AJC Security Services

August 18, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

We have traced the IP address of the blogger named RON and have traced to a S. Thorman in Atlanta, GA. Mr Thorman, please discontinue the use of offensive language or we will have to block your IP address. Do we have an understanding?

By Todd A

August 18, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

“When was the last time the Braves developed and promoted a starting pitcher with true top of the rotation stuff…you know, the kind of stuff the “kids” would describe as sick, filthy, etc. Maybe a 96-97 mph fastball, or a dominant 12-6 curveball, or an unhittable splitter. I moved here and started following the Braves closely in 2001 and I certainly can’t remember any since then.”

ijonathon good question.Glavine and Avery were the last two really good starters drafted and produced within the organization.But, Avery got injured and deteriorated so quickly, it’s hard to really put him in that category.Merker had the fastball in the mid 90’s but not much else to go with it.For an organization whose primary focus the last 20 years has been pitching, the Braves sure haven’t produced any top pitching talent in a loooonnng time. I thought Kevin McGlinchey, Odaliz perez, and Brusc Chen would break that trend in the late 90’s, boy was I wrong.

“Todd A this IS a youth movement.I’m negative about the play and attitude this team is exhibiting at this time but there is lots of young talent.”

A-ville, Hard to argue with your 10:10. Good points,especially about the starters. The Braves do have a nucleus of good young talent already playing.Not sure if any are superstars, but, they are good, quality, major Leaguers.

By chrisklob

August 18, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

Train Wreck LOL. I was just about to ask DOB when Buddy shaved off his goatee! I think he did it after his last start. If he’s got any superstitious beliefs I gotta think he’s gonna grow that sucker back as fast as he can!

By A-ville Ranger

August 18, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah that Elvis was an impostor.It is well known that E liked fried banana and peanut butter sandwichs not jelly.Well we’ll ge…I mean tomorrow’s anoth….oh what the hell night all..GO BRAVES…JUST GO ALREADY !!!

By AJC Security Services

August 18, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

I mentioned this earlier that Cormier and Carlyle pitch similarly. It would be a good idea to separate them. Put Chucky in between em’.

By ijonathan

August 18, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

Todd A Maybe Jason Schmidt fits that top of the rotation category, at least in terms of stuff? I know he took a long time to blossom and perhaps will end up having only 2-3 truly dominant seasons, but his “stuff” certainly was top notch.

By MEB

August 18, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this

I’ll be “Cryin in the Chapel” tomorrow morning over our recent losses. I know there is a lot of “Faded Love” on the blog tonight. Most bloggers are in the dumps or “In the Ghetto” but “Don’t Be Cruel” to a Braves fan who is true. You know we’ll be singing “Johnny Be Good” tomorrow. It’s not “Now or Never” but it’s sure getting close. Elvis has left the building.

GO BRAVES!!!

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this

A-ville Thing that confused me and still does about your comments on Webb are that you seem to be saying that he is not pitching outstanding. You say he pitched against weak competition. You seem to be trying to justify that because he has pitched against some teams that are considered weak, that somehow that shows that the Braves really stunk it up against him.

Can’t you just say, the dude pitched a heck of a game. If Hudson pitches well, I don’t hear anybody on here complaining about the team he beat. There were two schools of thought last night. One said our hitters should be patient (I was one of those), but when that happened, our hitters ended up being in the hole, 0-2 or 1-2. So, while I respect your opinions as a fan, you or I are certainly not major league hitting coaches.

So, why can’t you just admit that last night, we couldn’t do anything against a Cy Young caliber pitcher?

As for tonight, we just sucked.

I am sorry if I come off as being critical, but sometimes you guys drive me a bit nuts with your lack of logic in your arguments. It seems you are trying to do everything you can to disparage OUR team, instead of looking at the facts (we faced a heckuva pitcher last night).

And one last thing, in a 9:10 post, about the worst thing I said to you was “Use your head man.” So that extremely personal attack elicited your “goats and wives” response.

I get ticked off sometimes when others go over the line, then I have been known to attack. I guess I should have never said the highly offensive and inflamatory words “Use your head man” huh. I deserved to be quizzed about my goats and wives.

The goats are non-existant, and the wives are all doing well, especially the one with the surgically repaired knee. Thanks for asking.

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this

Well, at least disappointed Braves fans in attendance can say they saw Babe Ruth play.

Sort of.

He was certainly Ruthian for a night.

That’s one Georgia product the Braves would probably like to have in their stable of state kids. They’ll have to settle for his brother. Can’t see Arizona letting this guy go for some time.

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this

FRANCOEUR afterward: “We’ve got to get a [homestand] split here before we go on the road. It’s gut-check time. We’ve got the pieces. We’ve got the team. Now we’ve got to step up or get out of the way, I guess.”

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

Flame Throwing Pitchers

Really, how many of those guys are there in the majors, that are successful? Not trying to be confrontational, but seriously curious. Rarely does that sort of pitcher come up, take a year or so to develop, then end up pitching the next 10+ years at that level. Clemens comes to mind, Smoltz is a maybe. Most others struggle with control or other pitches, and often times their teams give up on them, and they blossom somewhere else.

To be honest, I don’t have the time or inclination to research this subject, but to me, it seems that sometimes it is the second or third team that an ace flame thrower blossoms for.

Some examples that support my contention: Randy Johnson, Curt Schilling, Jason Schmidt….

Does that make sense? I am just kind of thinking out loud here. I too was puzzled by our inability to develop and keep the real hard throwers. Is the Padres Peavey’s first club? I don’t think too many other clubs develop and keep their hard throwers.

By chrisklob

August 18, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

Wayne, come on now, be honest. You’re a Clempsun graditate so I know you got some goats around your place somewheres! :-)

Good luck to your son, BTW, in his quest to play for the Tigers BB team. They could use some talent. Been a long time since they’ve had a great team up there.

By BossLady

August 18, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this

DOB. tell us how you feel about this loss?

By Steve

August 18, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

I was at the game tonight. I assumed McCann must have been hurt to not be in the lineup. Then I realized who the Braves manager is.

We’ve lost 2 games in a row at home. We’re playing the hottest team in the NL. We’re falling behind in the wild card race. No need to have any sense of urgency. Let’s not field the best team possible for what is a very important game at this point. Let’s weaken the offense after a game when we had a 2 hit shutout pitched against us the night before.

Typical Cox. I’m convinced he’s IQ challenged. Unless the Braves get a bench coach with a strong problem solving acumen to whisper strategy in Cox’s ear, the Braves will never win again with Cox as their manager imo, his very positive attributes in the clubhouse not withstanding.

It’s not just that I think he’s bad regarding strategy and tactics, it’s that I think he’s atrocious. What he does is not just dumb, it’s blatantly dumb. But there are no checks and balances in place to prevent stupid decision after stupid decision.

I don’t care that Cox does great in surveys. I watch the games and see the decisions he makes on a daily basis. And they’re mind-boggling.

By Lee in S. GA

August 18, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

Francoeur said it best step up or get out of the way. Are the Braves contenders or pretenders?

No matter what this year has been more exciting than last year. I will hold faith for us having a chance on the Wild Card.

D’backs are on fire and you can tell it. Tomorrrow will be a good test for us to tell if Smoltz is 100% or not.

By gotigers72

August 18, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

That sound you hear is all of those people jumping off of the Buddy Carlyle bandwagon. He had a good run of 5 or 6 games, but has now gone back to his journeyman look. His defense hurt him tonight, but he still gave up 10 hits and 5 earned in the few innings he pitched. He has joined the “can’t get the ball down” club along with Chuck, Cormier, etc. And Oscar’s latest appearances haven’t been stellar either. If the Braves don’t make the playoffs, it will be because of the 3-5 spots and the bullpen since the break.

The offense hasn’t been so hot the past few games either. It’s one thing to get shut down by Brandon Webb, but then a rookie pitcher gets more hits than he gives up, and has as many RBIs as the other team has runs. Outside of Frenchy, nobody is raking now, except for maybe Diaz. KJs average has lost about 15 points lately, as has Willie’s and Yunel’s. I did not think that Teixeira struck out as much as he has since coming over. He is taking an awful lot of good pitches, and swinging at a lot of bad pitches. Could be due to the unfamiliarity with the NL pitchers.

And IMO, it’s ridiculous for a .344 hitter to be sitting while a .215 hitter plays every day. At this point, I would say defense be damned and play a guy [Diaz] with an average that’s 130 points higher than our illustrious centerfielder.

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this

Chris Come to think of it, I have been referred to as the “old goat” before.

By ijonathan

August 18, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah

I think there are more “flame throwers” that get developed than you think…but I agree that they often go on to have their best years with another team. Case in point, in the mid-90s the Blue Jays (I grew up in Toronto) had three blue-chippers come through their system and reach the big leagues at about the same time — Chris Carpenter, Roy Halladay and Kelvim Escobar. While Carpenter had some success with Toronto (before his first arm injury) he had is best years in St. Louis. Escobar never really found himself in Toronto but has gone on to have a fine career, now with LAA. Only Haladay stayed with Toronto and of course has been great. None of the three had a truly generational fastball, but all had well above average arms and a dominant breaking ball. They were Toronto’s version of the Mets’ “big three” of Pulsipher (sp?), Wilsong and Isringhausen.

By Tyler

August 18, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

I was at the game tonight.

What I saw was a p**-poor performance by the entire Braves team. Walks, errors, and solid hits plagued Carlyle (Not to mention the long ball) while impatience led to strikeouts for the offense.

The offense needs to click, and I think Matt Diaz needs to be part of it. Some way, some how. The end of the rotation needs help, but we aren’t getting any. What you see is what you get, and we aren’t getting any saviors from within.

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

So Steve, are you trying to say you don’t like Bobby Cox much as a manager? Come on now, don’t be shy!

By ijonathan

August 18, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

Steve The lack of checks and balances, obviously, goes to the very top…to JS and ownership. I know with 100% certainty that whatever happens the rest of this year, within 30 minutes of the season ending JS will announce that Bobby will be back for another year.

By Mill B. Later

August 18, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this

Did I mention yet that BOBBY COX SUCKS?

Until: 1: he quits 2: starts drinking again and beating the wife

The Braves will suck.

By Frick

August 18, 2007 11:46 PM | Link to this

What’s the Difference between George W. Bush and Bobby Cox?

At least Bobby’s stupidity doesn’t get anyone killed for no reason.

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 11:46 PM | Link to this

ijonathan

I think you answered my question with your last post. Not many teams are able to hang onto these pitchers, cause nobody know which ones will develop, and which will not.

I think the previous question was about the real premier pitchers, 96-97 mph stuff, with consistent control.

Even Nolan Ryan didn’t truly develop until he was much older.

Pitching is such a difficult thing to master, and pitchers seem to go through stages of development. Then there is the injury thing to contend with.

That’s why we gotta keep guys like Tommy Hanson and a couple of others at A ball level, no matter what.

By Dire Straits

August 18, 2007 11:48 PM | Link to this

I notice the more optimistic bloggers shy away from the blog after a Braves win and come back in the morning and post optimistic essays while slamming the previous negative posts the night before.

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 11:51 PM | Link to this

Mill What was that you just said? Blah, blah, blah, blah,blah, blah, blah,blah, blah, blah, is all I heard.

By Put up the damn tee-pee!! DAMMITT!!!

August 18, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

If there’s ever a movie about Bobby Cox, Roseanne Barr should get the role. She looks and walks more like Bobby than any other actor in Hollywood! It’s a shame we no longer have John Candy to play the part of Large Charles Kirfeld. Dr. Phil could play Smoltz if he lost a few pounds. The hairline is pretty close to perfect…

By gotigers72

August 18, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this

There are a couple of teams that are making youth movements that seem to be paying off. One is of course Arizona. The other is the Detroit Tigers. They kicked Craig Monroe to the curb and brought up a 20 year old that had 3 hits against Clemens, including a homer.

I know the Braves are basically a young team, and certainly aren’t afraid to bring up prospects with promise, and give them a chance. I just don’t understand why they keep Andruw around. He is going to end the year with less than a .220 BA, and if you don’t think he’s lost a step in the outfield, then I’ve got some oceanfront property in Nebraska for you. He’s gonna be gone in 6 weeks anyway. See if he would waive the 10/5 no trade clause, or just designate him for assignment. Yes the Braves are still in a pennant race, but he’s hurting, not helping. Bring up a young guy like the Tigers did, stick him out there and see how he does. He WILL NOT hit less than .220, whoever it may be. Let Willie play CF and Diaz play LF every day. Diaz hits righties as well as he does lefties. Bring up a rook to fill in when needed.

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2007 11:58 PM | Link to this

Dire I have tried to stick around tonight, but there seems to be an ever increasing influx of idiots on the blog. (certainly not you)

Oops, I said an inflamatory word. But, when I read posts from idiots like Frick and Mill B Later, it tends to make the positive “kool-aid drinkers” want to just go off and watch Emeril or just go to bed.

Have a nice night, Braves fans!

“the kool-aid drinker imbibes”

By flbravesgirl

August 19, 2007 12:15 AM | Link to this

I think this team is trying to give me an ulcer. Please Lord, let Smoltzie have a “good arm” day tomorrow (make that later today).

A bit late, but… Berigan, thanks for the link to the McCann story. I didn’t care for the stylized story layout either but the content was good. Terrific family & I hope Brad makes it to the majors if for no other reason than it would mean so much to Brian. And the writer is correct, Brian is sort of teddy bear-like.

By N8

August 19, 2007 12:26 AM | Link to this

Not to sound redundant. OK, maybe just a little.

But tonight was a PERFECT example of the offense NOT showing up while the game was still in doubt (yeah, alright, after the 2nd inning it might have been decided, but you get the picture), and then scoring 5 insignificant runs after the fact that will show up as 6 runs, to fuel all of the “our offense is fine” talk from the rose-colored glasses folk.

I walked away when it was 12-1, so sorry for the late post.

By uga-brave

August 19, 2007 1:00 AM | Link to this

brave- dave

if you are out there, well this was it the final meltdown

By Tomahawkin' Again

August 19, 2007 1:06 AM | Link to this

Just remember Braves fans, it’s always darkest before it gets really dark. Boy, we sure do s@#k right now, don’t we? So, who do you think starts in the grapefruit opener against Georgia Tech? Harrison, Hodges or Jo Jo?

By uga-brave

August 19, 2007 1:07 AM | Link to this

HEY DOB, at some point me and brave-dave are right. this team cant get it right. they are what they are a bunch of underchievers.

By uga-brave

August 19, 2007 1:16 AM | Link to this

any person that thinks the braves are headed for the playoffs, should just try to get a home equity loan, aint happenning. ron, and brave-dave understand this.

this was it we just farted on the 10 yard line.

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

August 19, 2007 1:18 AM | Link to this

If anyone is still up, Tim Russert has an old show with Yogi Berra and Whitey Ford being interviewed! From 2002, on CNBC

By uga-brave

August 19, 2007 1:29 AM | Link to this

ALL YOU COOL -AID DRINKERS OUT THERE HEY blame bobby it is definitely his fault. name one of you idiots out there that thought on august 18 BUDDY CARLYLE WOULD BE PITCHING TO CORKY MILLER.

By uga-brave

August 19, 2007 1:36 AM | Link to this

what a joke six back in the lost column. nice job a***** but than again your name is BUDDY. at least college football is only two weeks away.

By Old Lefty

August 19, 2007 1:39 AM | Link to this

What’s done …

is done.

Great thing about The Game … always next year.

But tonight … clear as a bell … we ain’t it this year.

Old Lefty … out.

What channel was that, Berigan … ?

By uga-brave

August 19, 2007 1:40 AM | Link to this

BOYS, it is over. just got ran by somebody named MICAH.

By A-ville Ranger

August 19, 2007 1:42 AM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah You just can’t let it go can you.There is a difference in something not making sense and someone who can’t make sense of something.My point about the Webb pitched game isn’t that complicated…dude.The Braves batters did a very poor job of working the count,they seemed to have taken bad advice and jumped at whatever Webb threw early in the count.If you can’t understand that much don’t blame me.Maybe I can evaluate these things better than you,if so don’t let it bother you,it doesn’t bother me.

By uga-brave

August 19, 2007 1:50 AM | Link to this

did anyone on this thread think our last two pitchers would be a a guy named BUDDY and whoever.

By uga-brave

August 19, 2007 1:52 AM | Link to this

did anyone on this thread think our last two pitchers would be a a guy named BUDDY and whoever.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 19, 2007 1:57 AM | Link to this

A-ville Ranger , great pitching will beat great hitting any day of the week and twice on Sunday. Brandon Webb can shutout any of the 30 major league teams right now the way he is pitching. So , don’t go blaming the offense , they got whipped by a great pitcher at the top of his game , period.

By uga-brave

August 19, 2007 1:58 AM | Link to this

HEY N8,

you been right for a long time. the only problem is DOB been drinkin BRIAN MCAANS KOOL-AID.

By uga-brave

August 19, 2007 2:04 AM | Link to this

THIS is the worst possible scenario, bad pitching and a bunch of guys that just dont get it.

By uga-brave

August 19, 2007 2:11 AM | Link to this

it is pretty much over. what a bunch underachievers. no sense of desire or acoutability

By The Truth Hurts

August 19, 2007 2:17 AM | Link to this

Went to the game tonight. One positive: sheltered seats.

Those were not HRs hit by Owens.

Those were bombs.

Those were 45,000 audible gasps I heard after the second one went to the black wall in center.

Earth to Kelly Johnson. Can we get an Amber Alert to find KJ’s 34oz. pride and joy?

Grounds crew looked sharp tonight. Inconspicuous, efficient, and lively.

That grounds crew always brings its “A” game. You don’t see them getting tossed around by a gust of wind and hanging onto tarps for dear life.

The hometown team, on the other hand…is getting tossed around and hanging on for dear life.

Arizona is a classic example of the whole being greater than its parts. Our parts are greater than our whole.

By Dad

August 19, 2007 2:42 AM | Link to this

“Quickly fading in the East”. Did you Braves fans read Dave’s headline on his blog? I have been telling you Braves fans for a month now that the Braves would soon begin to fade in the NL East. 5 and 1/2 half games back of the Mets at present. The Braves by the end of August will be 10 games behind the NL East champion Mets. I told you Braves fans that the Diamond backs would bop your 4 and 5 starters. After the Diamondbacks bop John Smoltz around today, you Braves fans can start looking ahead to next year.Enjoy the Mets march to the World Series in 2007.

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

August 19, 2007 3:08 AM | Link to this

The Truth Hurts,

You said…

Arizona is a classic example of the whole being greater than its parts. Our parts are greater than our whole.

That hits the nail on the head right there!!!!

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

August 19, 2007 3:16 AM | Link to this

DAD,

Mets march to the world series? You mean the whole team is marching to watch it on some stadium big screen or something??? Sorry dude, that pitching staff is going nowhere fast. 1st round and out for you guys, if the Phillies don’t pass you that is. And why isn’t Carlos Delgado playing??? Did someone beat him up for not standing during the playing of the National Anthem??? Class guy you got there manning 1st.

By uga-brave

August 19, 2007 3:47 AM | Link to this

it is over fans. college football is comming.

By Double Deuce

August 19, 2007 4:13 AM | Link to this

Well, now that’s what I call a good arse kicking. Just when we needed to do something to bounce back from being beaten by two good pitchers, we lay an egg. That’s one of those performances by a team that was so bad from pitching, defense, and offense(until they put in some guy who’s being sent down tomorrow)that you hopefully just forget about it and move on.

I am one of the kool aid drinkers, but I admit to being more than a little concerned. We need to win three or four in a row and have the Mutts drop a couple just to get back within striking distance. Even though we are coming up against teams we are supposed to beat, its on the road and that makes it that much more difficult. Besides, the Cards are playing better baseball right now and Florida always gives us a hard time.

It’s easy to say the pitching has let us down but the offense has taken a few days off when we can’t afford it also. Brandon Webb will beat anybody he faces right now, but Lincecum wasn’t exactly dominant and Owings wasn’t any better than some of the guys we have killed this year so I have to call those lost opportunities.

It’s far from being over as some of you have declared, but we have dug ourselves a little deeper hole to get out of. We aren’t going to win with our starting pitching if we can only count on Smoltz and Hudson. If Chuck and Buddy don’t get the job done next time around our bullpen better be near perfect or we will be in deep kim chee.

By BravesDave

August 19, 2007 4:14 AM | Link to this

I was pretty impressed tonight with how the Braves took advantage of this opportunity. I mean seriously, it was great to see the best lineup in baseball hit 3 home runs off of a pitcher that was 0-5 with a 5.76 ERA since June 20. I was happy to see the Braves keep pace with the Mets tonight, we can’t let them get too far ahead.

What’s that you say??? The Braves lost??? Are you serious??? The opposing pitcher with the horrible record since June 20 only gave 3 solo home runs…and drove in 6 runs with 2 home runs at the plate???? Yeah, right. Whatever you say. We all knew that the Braves were going to kick butt on this homestand against that terrible Giants team and the overrated DBacks squad (I mean, seriously, they have been outscored by their opponents).

Go Braves. 2007 NL East Champs!!!!!

By Braves Fan 79

August 19, 2007 4:37 AM | Link to this

I still like what Buddy gives us and look for him to be back in form next start. We wouldnt be sweating these losses so much if we wouldnt of given away so many games in the 1st half. (the redmen experiment cost us at least 4 wins) (and keeping woodcrap/orr on the team over escobar cost us at least 3 or 4 games AT LEAST!)
I find comfort knowing our last games of the season are against houston….if those arent winnable games then we dont deserve to be in the playoffs! I say we sweep that series…(hope oswalt isnt pitching)…and sneak in the wildcard! We all know the mets dont wanna face us in the NLCS.

By BravesDave

August 19, 2007 4:41 AM | Link to this

I had some Kool-Aid tonight. It was so kool. Not only did that big dude shaped like a pitcher (not a baseball pitcher) bust through my wall, but everything seemed better. I re-read DOB’s blog entitled “Braves have a major opportunity this week” and realized he was right, the Braves smoked the Giants and DBacks and tied the Mets for first place. In addition, the Braves won the World Series in 1996 and 1999, beating the hated NY Yankees both seasons. It was so awesome. I also noted that Congress came together on a bipartisan basis and fixed the Social Security mess, terrorism was eradicated, and there was peace in the Middle East. I also won the lottery. Jeez, Kool-Aid is the greatest drink ever…so sweet and tasty. I can’t wait to drink more.

By BravesDave

August 19, 2007 4:53 AM | Link to this

Oh man, the big Kool-Aid pitcher guy just told me it was all a joke. He said the Braves have actually lost 3 out of 5 on their homestand and they are 5.5 games out of first place. He also said that the Braves did not win the World Series in 1996 and 1999, the Yankees won. All that Congress, peace, and terrorism stuff…all untrue. Now I am stuck here at 5am cleaning up a bunch of sheetrock and 2x4’s from that big jerk busting through my wall. I hate Kool-Aid.

By Charlie

August 19, 2007 5:47 AM | Link to this

This will be my last post of the 2007 season. This Braves team SUCKS. What a no talent bunch of losers. I would hate to have the “cup concession” for this Braves team. Smoltz has one. Hudson has one. For the rest of the team, a cup isn’t necessary. Take your money (earned or not) and go home. Your season is finished. You are a collective bunch of losers. Baseball is such a great game, from a players standpoint. You make BIG BUCKS, even if you don’t perform. In the real work world, most of the Braves would be on food stamps. If you don’t do your job, you lose it. In baseball that doesn’t hold true. If it did, the August 2007 Braves would be a team of 2, without a manager, or even a GM. You are a joke. You have no reason to refer to yourselves as major league baseball players. The pitching staff especially is minor league caliber (Smoltz and Hudson, not withstanding.) Next year TBS will do 30 games. They won’t be able to do any Braves game as their contract with MLB requires them to broadcast MAJOR LEAGUE games; therefore the Braves are EXCLUDED. Enjoy the off season Braves boys. It will begin on October 1st (although for many of you it actually started months earlier.)

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 5:59 AM | Link to this

BravesDave On your hallucinatory journey~ Did that big Ol’ pitcher of Electric Kool-Aid, whisper to you, That the season is still far from over? If not! I suggest, changing the form of such elixer to Strawberry reality? Let’s face it folks? The season isnt over yet? I for one~ will revel in a braves victory today:o) I realize it hurts to lose? I also realize, that the season is still far from over? Hey guys, If WE do not make the playoffs, then cry baby cry? I personally will not however! I PAY to watch the Braves on MLB.com! It’s some of the BEST money I spend each month! Very Well worth it! I feel WE will make the playoffs~ if we do not? Been DAM worth the price of admission:o) Wayne in Utah Quit Bogarting the Kool-Aid! And GRINCH Pass it over to me!!!!!!! :o)

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 6:14 AM | Link to this

BravesDave Awesome perception my friend!!!

the Braves smoked the Giants We did kinda take that series with a sense of mellowness huh?

Of course the last 2 games have been not what WE had hoped for? Is All hope lost? Is the Season over? For some reason I think not? How in Allah’s name could I think this? hm Must be sumpin to do with those dam buddhists and their due dillegence to keeping the little red hairs on the bud’s they produce? “Rock On BUDISM!” Now~~~ For All you ppl who Don’t quite get it? Watch These Braves Pull a Rabbit Outta their hat?! TRIX are for Kids?

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 19, 2007 6:21 AM | Link to this

Hey Serbok , The Braves have been a .500 team since the first week of the season. They are 57-58 during the last 115 games played. They have a winning percentage of .520 , they are on pace for 84 wins. That is at best a winning percentage of .518 and no Braves team in modern history (1962-2007) has ever made the playoffs with anything less than a record of 88-74 and a .543 winning percentage (2001). Thats a long winded way of saying , They don’t have SNOWBALLS CHANCE IN HELL OF SEEING THE PLAYOFFS ANYWHERE BUT ON TV LIKE THE REST OF US !

By Steve0

August 19, 2007 6:29 AM | Link to this

May as well keep Andruw Jones in centerfield now, I mean, they’ve blown it already with him there the last 3 months.

QUESTION: How long does a ball team that is trying to contend for a pennant keep an injured player with the lowest batting average among ALL major league starters in the daily lineup?? ANSWER: You’ll have to ask Bobby Cox that one, I am astounded that Jones has lasted this long.

Cox is supposed to be leading this ship, but his misguided loyalty to A. Jones is going to see him go down with it. Instead of hoisting the sails and cruising to victories, A. Jones has been the anchor that grinds this lineup to a halt.

Jones’ lack of bat has cost the Braves at least six games I have seen, batting and failing to produce, and probably a dozen more I haven’t seen. Even if his supporters claim his glove saves 4 or 5 games a year, the bat has cost them at least twice that many.

It’s time to bench Jones for the rest of the season, or DL him for the hurt elbow. One side benefit to that will be to be able to watch that snake-oil salesman agent of his, Scott Boras, try to pawn his damaged goods. I say goo riddance to both of them.

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH, BOBBY COX….BENCH ANDRUW JONES AND TRY TO FIGHT BACK!! JONES IS AN ALBATROSS IN YOUR LINEUP, AND YOU HAVE NO CHANCE WITH HIM IN IT!!

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 6:34 AM | Link to this

Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion The Braves are a different team since “THE trade?” However~ leave that aside for a moment if you will? I and YOU are different ppl than we were when we woke up yesterday? The world IS fluid? I do not really care to much about stats, The fact of the matter is only one thing is gaurenteed in life? My guess is that is death? However, we really cannot equivocate that either? Hence my reference to The mighty Allah? Then again~ according to this so called spell checker~ I’m guarenteed to mispill something everytime I post? mLOL

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 6:39 AM | Link to this

Steve0 I have a feeling JS might pull A GS and do something about AJ? Then! It would be really COOL if JS did Something About BC!

COACH This IS NOT the same team that created the 500 record? Can you agree on that?

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 19, 2007 6:52 AM | Link to this

I’ll put it as gently as I can. A final record of 84-78 and 88-74 is the difference between a .512 and .615 winning percentage the rest of the remaining 39 games. The Braves have played at a .500 clip for 115 straight games. No Braves team in modern history has ever made the playoffs(1962-2007) with anything less than 88 wins. They would have to play at a .615 clip for the remaining 39 games and the Braves have not done that since 2003.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 19, 2007 6:58 AM | Link to this

Serbok , Mark Teixiera can’t pitch. So yes , I can agree , they still won’t make the playoff’s.

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 7:13 AM | Link to this

Charlie WOW DUDE!!!!! Just read your post? It seems to me~ that society has focused sooo much on winning that it creates ppl who feel the way you do. Not raggin on ya, just seems like you have epitomized the average sports fan of today. I for one enjoy ALL sports, (cept Pro rasslin’) Isn’t the enjoyment based on the adrenaline of ones team performing well or badly? If your team does not WIN or perform up to expectation is your time that one has put into it a total waste? I really Enjoy this blog, it shows more than most ppl realize, it’s almost a microcosm of the general psyche of (Help me BOBJ?) I’m stuck!!!!!!!!!!!!! Todays society?

The enjoyment of all levels of sport Should be Just that? Enjoyment? The awareness of the arts~ the awareness of violence within said art. If the Bravos do NOT make the playoffs,the creation of anticipation? The adrenaline that the game has created for the fans, and one can only imagine the players? that the wonderful world of sports has brought to us, is a phenomana(sic) that cannot be equaled by the likes of wheel of fortune?

In the True WORDS of A great ARTIST I can Only SAY: MANNAMAMMANAH! DEE DEE DADEE?

By JasonInMaine

August 19, 2007 7:18 AM | Link to this

Can Tex pitch? If he can’t, there will be no fred mcgriff like run…

Now, next year…

Please do not allow us to have a rotation that boasts chucky, lance, and the budster or their likeness…

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 7:29 AM | Link to this

Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion Coach~ correct me if I’m wrong? Did Mahay, Dotel on the 500 team? Also? Was Cormier a factor? not to mention, that Soriano Might get back on track? Might not also! Give ya that! Moylan? Was he really a part of that 500 record? Not to mention (but I will :o) ) My point is Coach, that one cannot predicate what is going to happen with this club on STATS. (Sorry Shaun) Not the Way it works! True~ pitching is a problem, at least it has been? Not so sure it will be in the future tho~ we have the sept. callups? I also like this kid Acosta. I realize the ya havent drank the Kool-Aid yet? LOL But Dude? Look at the math? You cannot compare this team to the Langerhans, Redman, Davies days? Just cant! We do not know what Devine might do? Hell, for that matter, we do not know what anyone will do? “Cept they will all be Dead someday? Just Like You and I? LOL The Season is far from over my friend? Enjoy the game:o)

THE SCRiBE DOES NOT Abide :o)

By ncscoots

August 19, 2007 7:31 AM | Link to this

I notice the more optimistic bloggers shy away from the blog after a Braves win and come back in the morning and post optimistic essays while slamming the previous negative posts the night before.

Yes, that pesky thing called “life” does have a way to preventing some of us from spending hours on end with the blog, but I’ll try to do better. That’ll teach my loved ones to hold a “blog intervention”!

No sugar in the Kool-Aid last night, for sure. A bitter drink, all the more tasteless for the urgency of the Braves’ thirst for victories. Braves might have drafted the wrong Owings brother, LOL.

Overnight, more than one poster questioned the team’s “heart”, “desire”, “guts”, and various other qualities. I’m not privy to the clubhouse and thus don’t know its tenor, so I guess that could be a correct assessment. However, only the pitiably obtuse would question the competitive nature of ANY player who manages to make it to The Show. You can’t get there without it.

Step up or step away, and I’m sure the Braves know it as well as any blogger. The hole’s been dug; time to see if the team can scramble up the steep, slippery sides of it. We shall see what we shall see.

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 7:40 AM | Link to this

Charlie Just re-read your 5:47 DAM MAN thats ANnOYING!!!! Really feel sorry for ya:o( DID Ya hear Joey Harrington is gonna be the Falcons Quarterback? LMAO!

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 7:46 AM | Link to this

NCSCOOTS We shall see what we shall see Excellent! My thoughts exactly!

By brent a.

August 19, 2007 8:24 AM | Link to this

So, if the Braves are 7 + games out on August 31, are those 2 War Eagles still gonna be performing their Mark Texeira love song?

Fred McGriff is not walking through that door!

(But the Wild Card remains well within reach - someone please tell that to the Braves announcers, who don’t seem to realize that 1.5 < 5.5)

By jerry

August 19, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this

Methinks the Braves have not come down to the sorry level of the competition. Methinks the competition has come up to the sorry level of the Braves.

By bevsouth

August 19, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this

Even if the braves were to go 26 and 13 which I don’t believe they can do, the Mets wouyld only need to go 22-18 to win the division. Our only shot is the wild card.

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this

Well, if that pitching thing does not work out for the pride of Gainesville, he at least knows he might be able to sing an Ankiel like redemption song.

By Vonshawn

August 19, 2007 9:12 AM | Link to this

Someone said it best a while ago, this team is currently constructed to do well in a short playoff series.

However, winning the division with this pitching staff is going to be a long shot, no matter what kind of run we go on.

So, our best bet to get into the playoffs is via the wildcard, which by the way, we are only 1.5 games out of first place.

Forget the division, we’ve done that 14 times in a row and we’ve managed to win 1 World Series.

We have a real shot here folks to make it back to the playoffs and it’s going to be a dogfight. Let’s see how this team responds to adversity and maybe even a lack of resources.

In the end, I like our chances.

By gdtall

August 19, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this

come on bravos, get it going or go away

By And That Is Why

August 19, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

Wild Card? Yes we’re closer to the wildcard, but it can be harder to win the wildcard this year in many ways.

You’re not competing against a couple of teams in front of you in the division….. you’re competing with about 8 teams all with a shot.

When one team loses and lets you gain some ground, another team wins and hangs in there with you.

At this time, the Braves aren’t a division winner OR a wildcard winner.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 9:48 AM | Link to this

Serbok, Scoots, Vonshawn, others: Good posts this morning. Agree with most of what you’ve said.

Charlie: Get some sleep, my friend. And maybe consider stop watching sports; it’s not working out for you.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this

Coach, I’ll put it as gently as I can: Who cares what it took to make the playoffs before the advent of the wild card? The ONLY numbers that are relevent are what it’s taken teams to make the playoffs since the wild card was added and another layer of playoffs with it. Otherwise, it’s irrelevent what it took to make the playoffs before that. Really is.

And no Braves team has made it with fewer than 88 wins. So what?

How many St. Louis teams made the playoffs with fewer than 88 wins before last season? They went 83-78 last season and won the World Series.

What about that team’s performance in the second half of the season would lead you to believe those Cardinals were better suited to make and succeed in the playoffs than this Braves team? Or this Phillies team? What?

By Yars

August 19, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this

What shocks me the most is how the Phillies have a better record than the Braves. Not by much, but I was hoping they would have faded off by now. As for Atlanta catching the Mets, once we’re 7+ games behind them, might as well start only focusing on the NL Wildcard. 39 games left, 5.5 behind the Mets. Man, it’s going to be tough. I just can’t see the Mets going on some 8 game losing streak anytime soon. I think division titles are over-rated anyway. As long as you make the playoffs, is all that matters. Let’s think positive & ahead for a moment. What if the Mets win the East, Cubs win Central, & D’backs win West. Braves win Wildcard. Mets finish regular season with NL best record, D’backs finish with 2nd best record, Braves 3rd, then Cubs 4th. Would the matchups be Mets vs Cubs & Braves vs D’backs in 1st round?

By Stats Lie

August 19, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

The six runs the offense scored last night will surely figure into the overall Braves RPG stats. So will the homers, rbi and hits.

So you’re down by 11 and your offense wakes up. Actually it doesn’t wake up, it’s just easier to hit when the game is out of hand. No pressure. No sweat. Just go up there and rake.

Unfortunately, situational hitting matters. Who here will argue that it is harder to drive that run in from second when the game is tied or you’re down by a run rather than being up by 10 or down by 10?

So thanks to the meaningless offensive outburst at the end of the game, we will continue to be beaten over the head by scribes and tv commentators about how the offense is getting the job done.

Oh yeah. we are now 2 games under .500 since Tex arrived. Or is it just one game under?

By chipdip

August 19, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this

BRAVES ARE DONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Bob, Journalist

August 19, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

Identity theft is a despicable act with which we’re all to familiar but we are fortunate and our angst is greatly lessoned, having the esteemed Ugandan journalist and the Most Honorable Southern as dutiful sentries.

Amnesia isn’t akin to Identity Theft but the victims of both often suffer suffer similar fates … Scoots again has me at a disadvantage as I don’t know team’s baritone, alto, soprano, tenor or bass … much less it’s lead singer … it’s understandable when some are flat instead of sharp but sometimes methinks they read from different sheets of music and even forget they’re members of a choir.

Jimmy and Most Honorable can relax and enjoy their Sunday for I don’t think for one minute that this is a case of Identity Theft … but, I do suspect a mild case of amnesia.

Daddy used to wash his car while wearing an old Austin Leads jacket and a Countess Mara tie … but, that was daddy … Cobb showed Ruth that he could hit hit home runs when he so wanted but we are what we are and it’s usually a mistake for most folks to try to wear shoes that don’t fit, regardless of how much they cost or good they look … but, you’d be surprised at how many do.

Hopefully, the shock from last night’s game will be the catalyst that triggers recovery from the current bout of amnesia … methinks it’s a delicate and complex thing.

Only the insidious among us would attempt to defend the use of the “underachievers” tag on the basis that they are capable of achieving more than they have … it’s like using mediocre to describe average.

It’s smart to acquire and maintain the best possible pitching staff … it’s okay, if not important, to preach to our pitchers that good pitching always beats good hitting … it’s just plain dumb to tell that to your hitters! Try giving them a strategy and plan of attack instead … it tastes better and it works too.

However, I wouldn’t suggest using Tim Hudson as an inspirational leader.

There’s no question that those without heart don’t make it to the dance … I think the pitiably obtuse among us confuse heart with confidence, chemistry and identity … and possibly don’t understand contagion … and trees and woods and splinters and things like that.

My guess is that there are about 400 talented players in the National League with heart … 3 or maybe 4 teams not suffering from amnesia.

Looks to me like we may be playing one of them now … they seem to know who and what they are, but we’re better than they … I wonder if we know it.

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

Just a “quick one” to see if I have joined the band of banned. An earlier post, very mild for me, did not make it. There is a real possibility that I may have to get a life.

By d-rock in Scotland

August 19, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

Vonshawn and whoever made the point first: this team is designed for a short playoff series is dead-on. This is a great team when smotlz and huddy are pitching with this lineup. The other 3 guys are doing their best, but are going to give us a .500 shot. We’re a game and a half away from the postseason. What the mets do doesn’t mean jack. If we can climb ahead of the Phillies we should be ok. I like our chances, especially as Andruw made some real nice swings last night, he’s stopped flailing and is driving the ball to center, which is what he was doing a couple years ago. Also, Cormier looked real strong on Friday against Webb, who couldn’t have pitched much better.

By h_charles

August 19, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

DOB — some good points. There is no reason why this team can’t do what STL did last year.

However, there are two key differences among the squads:

First, the Cards had lesser opposition last year. While the Mets and Phillies certainly haven’t dominated, they are much better clubs than than the Cards had to face. Also, the Mets and Phillies are about to get better. The Phils have held off ATL without Braun Utley, and Victorino. The Mets survived injuries to their entire OF and LoDuca (not to mention Pedro if he can return).

Second, the Cards last year were able to fix the bugaboo that haunts thos years Bravos. The back-end of the rotation stepped up. The savvy trade for Weaver and the meteoric rise of their Reyes shored up the rotation in the way our Reyes and Redman were supposed to do.

It just hasn’t happened for us, and this weakness is compounded by the apparent dead arm of James.

I’m still holding out hope, but it really doesn’t look good. Carlye is pitching like, well, Carlye. James is pitching like Steve Carlton — with the White Sox.

Even if Cormier can step up, that is offset by the James step backwards.

Perhaps JS can pull a miracle trade, but after waivers in this market the odds aren’t good.

Here’s to hoping, though!

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

Gosh, I am still on the team, albeit seated down here on the splinter-laden end of the bench. But, when pitchers— in this modern era—start having 3 homerun games there is hope for us warning-track-power-rag-armed right fielders. Coach! Coach! Put me in.

By dadgum

August 19, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

DOB…you are correct correlating the ‘06 Cards and ‘07 Braves. Nobody knows what lies ahead really. We can take history and figure the over/under on wins and frankly that is fun to a point. However, the big kicker is that we are down 2 games to the Phils in the loss column for 2nd place. Obviously the wild card hinges on us passing the Phillies at the very least so I am not going to play the what if game just yet.

I am more concerned about getting this team a chemistry balance to mount some charge the last 40 games. Obviously the problem is our pitching as we simply don’t have the minimum of 3 quality starters necessary to overcome our defecit. Can’t get deep enough into games with the starters. Middle relief is fine and closers are not. Bottom line is that parlays into a .500 team at best. Not going to come close in the NL East. Ironically that .500 the rest of the way would give the Braves 83-84 wins. Yep the same as ‘06 Cards. Nevertheless that would have them finishing about 7 back of the Mets and of course no shot at the wild card mix either as it won’t come out of the NL East.

Francouer’s comments bothered me somewhat. I really hope he was stating they had to “come away with a split at Least” as a way of winning this game today and not as a benchmark for the homestand or series. All homestands must be won HANDILY. Say 5-1 or 4-2 absolute worst case. 3-3 is not going to cut it. When you squeak by San Fran 2 games then get torched and follow that up with two Little league efforts. Well, OUCH. Anyway get the win today and split. Maybe they will sweep the Mets and Phils. It may well take that to win the NL East.

By Colin

August 19, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

Well anyone looking forward to next year?….

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

I am accused-and some would say rightfully-of never talking baseball. Mark this one down.

I am not ready to pack it in, but a tiny shot of reality, may be called for. I think we got awfully spoiled during that 14 year run and stuff does happen. Ask one of the many teams, and their fans, who have not been to the dance since Hector was a pup.

If we don’t make it this year, I really like what I see for next year with a hole plugged here and there, particularly in the rotation. I know! I know! There “he” goes on this “wait ‘til next year” stuff. May be ‘cause I was a Red Sox fan through all those years when they originated the saying, and perfected it.

Again, I am not ready to give up. There is a lot of baseball yet to be played. I’m just saying that the outlook is not dismal if, in fact, we have to “wait ‘til next year”.

Oh, did I mention that I am a Falcon fan? Talk about patience!

By Current GOP War Hero LOL

August 19, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

I Promise I Will Never Post This Again——Atlanta has been in the Major League sports business since 1966 and with 4—Count Them 4!!!!—They have ONE!!!! World Championship. One of those 4 franchises had arguably the greatest starting pitching staff in baseball history for a significant period of time and that was parlayed into that ONE!!!!World Championship.

Now I know you guys are very proud of those 14 little banners gracing the upper deck in left field. Now how many of those meaningless little banners—and they are meaningless(do the Yankees or Red Sox or other teams with significant talent talk about division championships??—-would you exchange for just ONE additional World Championship flags to proudly fly over Turner Field to keep the other one company???

Do you realize since the 1987 season—chose that year to exclude the Mets’title—the moneyless, stadium less, fanless and clueless Florida Marlins have won more World Series COMBINED!!!! than the Braves, Phillies, Mets, Expos/Nats, Brewers, Cubs, Astros, Rockies, Giants, Dodgers, Orioles, Devil Rays, Tigers, Indians, Royals, Rangers, and Mariners. Those teams have won ONE!!!(The Braves”lonely title) and a team that draws maybe 6,000 a game in REAL people has won TWO!!!!!

Makes you wonder why most of these teams even bother, when you realize that if you don’t win the LAST game of the season that all you have is regret, even though some will rationalizeabout the joy of having been better than the Marlins, Phillies, Mets and Expos/Nats-WOW!!!!—for a long period of time!!

By bigtrain

August 19, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Was it the Red Sox who originated the “wait ‘til next year” saying? I thought it was originated by the Dodgers, when they were in Brooklyn. Oh, well….

By Current GOP War Hero LOL

August 19, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

Dear Paladin, There you go again!! You’re not spoiled and others aren’t spoiled for wanting the deal to be finished.

A hypothetical—Let’s say the Georgia Bulldogs, LSU Tigers or Florida Gators won their next 14 Division—Note I said DIVISION titles, BUT they went on to LOSE all but ONE the 14 SEC CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES they played in. How—now tell the truth—do you think that would play out in Gainesville, Athens or Baton Rouge and would it be justified????? And I believe it would be much harder to accomplish that feat than having steamrolled the Marlins, Phillies, Expos?Nats and poorly run Mets team for a long time.

In reality those 14 Division crowns are akin to having been Mountain West Champions for all the good it accomplished.

By Colin

August 19, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

They gotta start playing with urgency..This next week should not lose a game…

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

Even if you were the type who thought this season was over, why would you be looking forward to next year or football season? Even if you thought this season was over, next year would be starting right now.

If you thought it was over, why would you not just enjoy the last 40 games Druw plays in a Braves uni even if you don’t like the way he is playing? Wouldn’t you be praying that he makes five more diving catches you will never forget? Or maybe you watch him and end up going back in your mind and think like you do about any former bitterswet romantic relationship when you’ve accepted the destiny of the relationship about the good times and what was with Druw and what coulda, woulda, shoulda been?

Why would you not be watching one of the greatest third baseman there ever was try to have one last grab at a batting title before the inevitable late 30s decline starts like George Brett did in 1990 during the twilight of his career? Why would you not root for him to have maybe one last great MVP run in him like Mike Schmidt did in 1986? Why would you not just watch to see and guess how many more great years he has left in his beaten down body?

Why would you not watch every game and box score to see if Frenchy can end up with a .300 AVG, 200 hits, 20 homers, 40 doubles, 100 RBIs, 40 walks?

Why would you not watch and enjoy Smoltz in what may very well be his last great season before his decline starts?

Why would you not watch and root for Chuck James to overcome his recent adversity and grow as a pitcher?

Why would you not watch and root for Cormier to do well so that the Braves don’t need to sign two pitchers this winter instead of one they clearly need?

Why would you not watch Tex and figure out if he is worth all the money his agent says he is?

Why would you not watch KJ and be amazed by his growth as a player?

Why would you not watch Edgar and say damn that is how a professional shortstop is supposed to play this game?

Why would you not watch Yuni and say damn what else can this kid do? Can he be ROY?

Why would you not watch Willie and say damn straight, leave the kid for dead, everyone doubts him, and he roars back like a lion?

Why would you not watch Diaz and say why the heck is a batting champ sitting the pine so much?

Why would you not watch Hudson and be amazed by the way he pitches this year? Even root for him to keep it up so he gets a Cy Young?

WHy would you not watch Cox and be thankful for him reviving the franchise in the 90s?

Why would you not watch McCann and be thankful you have a two time all star 23 year old catcher?

Why would you not root for Thorman to grow? For Franco to defy his age when he gets called back up?

Why would you not watch and see if Soriano can recover or see if Moylan can keep his ERA under 2.00? Or if Dotel and Mahay are worth having next year? Or whether Yates can bounce back? Or whether Devine when he comes up, will finally recover mentally?

There’s a whole lot out there to keep watching. Even when a season is over, it’s never over if you are a real baseball fan. Winning is the most important thing but it ain’t the only thing.

And this season is not over. Far from it. I’m watching to see what unsung dude is going to make himself a Braves immortal down the stretch here with a big homer, a well pitched game, a key stolen base.

I’m also watching to see who are the ones who just plain old catch fire over the last 7 weeks. There’s a whole lot to watch out there that too many are missing with their jaded outlook on wins and losses.

If I thought it was over, I would shift my focus from the negative thoughts about not winning enough to what the individual possibilities are for each player on the team and what that means for next year and the years after.

Would the 90s have been so sweet if you did not have to watch each painful loss of the late 80s while watching the development of Glavine, Smoltz, Gant, etc.?

By Anders

August 19, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

h-charles Excellent points all, plus I’d add one more. If the Braves make the playoffs as a wild card team they would most likely face the D’Backs in the first round.That doesn’t bode well. As for JS pulling out a miracle on waivers - don’t count on it. Mets GM Omar Minyaya was on WFAN on Friday and reported that he put claims in for 4 players that day alone. He’s obviously blocking all the players he can to prevent trades. SOP for division leading teams in late August.

By Colin

August 19, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Why because we dont watch them to lose…the matter of the fact is they dont win…Its not that they cant they just dont.Yea all that stuff is great Bumdruw will be gone(Thankfully) but lets face were not fans of losing…if i wanted to cheer for someone who loses there are alot of teams. This team just does not have the urgency which they need with about 7 weeks left. There 1.5 out win a game. I mean i wasent around for all the losing of the 80’s i was born 1990 so i dont know losing, so last year and some of this year is unbearable. They have way to much talent to be underachieving so bad.

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Current GOP War Hero, Bad analogies and bad analysis all over the place in your posts.

First of all, winning all those division titles is not comparable to winning the SEC East for 14 straight years and losing the SEC championship game.

The better analogy would be winning the SEC championship game and SEC championship for 14 years in a row but winning only one national title. That is the comparison you were unable to get to. Last I checked, Dawgs fans are pretty proud of their 2 SEC championships under Mark Richt.

There are only 6 divisions in baseball and only 6 BCS conferences in football - SEC, ACC, Big 12, Big 10, Pac 10, Big East. So, right there, your analogy completely failed.

Everyone wants the national titles but you have step back and appreciate and toast and not roast the difficult accomplishment that is winning the NL East or the SEC every year for 14 years.

The rest of your posts are kinda too childish to even address.

By chipdip

August 19, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

“SO IT GOES”.

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Your homework is to look up, memorize, and practice b-r-e-v-i-t-y. Now that the Vegas jaunt has been torpedoed by the Scribe, you will have to do this as a self-help program.

               Love,

               Uncle Paladin
          Eccentric old huckleberry

By Lew

August 19, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Current GOP-And what, exactly is your point? That you can count. Whoopie. We are, I assure you, exceedingly thrilled for you. Try telling us something we haven’t been painfully aware of for quite some time. Yes, we only won one WS. Maybe you would be happier if we gave it back? Maybe you would be happier if we had come in last those 14 years? I repeat. What exactly is your point? Why do you think we care?

Now the State of The Braves. Last night between 1 AM and 3:30 AM, there were 18 posts from UGA Brave and Braves Dave telling us it’s over. I guess if repeatedly posting the same thing over and over again, ad nauseum means anything, the Braves season has ended. And Nathan-you’re absolutely right. There is no point whatsoever scoring six runs in two innings when your team is out of the game. They just should have struck out and avoided traffic going home. No point at all. Meaningless scoring? I’m not sure there is such a thing. Why do any of you even bother posting? Just to hear yourselves pontificate? To make yourselves sound smart and prophetic? Believe me, it isn’t working. Try something else-like maybe the Falcons Blog?

By David-ATL14

August 19, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

DOB- an interesting note from Richmond. Dave Brundage was notified approximately 2 hours before first pitch in their game last night ot hold Reyes out.

Quote” he may very well be needed in ATL in the next day or two. Any ideas of what may be going on?

My guess would be James doesn’t go to the post in Cincy. Just speculation though. His arm and demeanor suggest someone struggling with injury.

By Lew

August 19, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Braveheart-You finally did it, son. Your 12:02 post won you the Wurlitzer Prize For Gut Checks. E mail me at lewhartman@comcast.net and we will work it out. I’ll need your real name and snail mail address.

By Put up the damn tee-pee!! DAMMITT!!!

August 19, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

I’ve attended MANY Braves/Falcons games, over MANY years, with crowds that wouldn’t fill a good-sized cattle barn. Back in those days it was more acceptable to be sloppy-drunk, and cussing adnauseum, from the first pitch/kickoff, to the last out/tick of the clock. Mom used to say she could hear me cussing while watching the Braves on TV. She knows my voice pretty well, and the stadium was EMPTY… In the mid-80s I attended a game pitting Rick Mahler against Fernando Valenzuela. My friends flipped-out when Mahler, (one of the worst hitters in the history of baseball), homered off Fernando. They all jumped-up, grabbing me by the arms to join in celebration. Too much beer and too many eats… We were leaning over the upper-deck railing at old AFCS, my friends with arms raised in jubilation, myself yapping-up beer, KFC, mashed potatoes with gravy, cole slaw, and a biscuit, on the now-not-so-joyful spectators below…

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

Braveheart What you and Lew and others need to remember is that many of our “fan base” on here came along after the celler-dwelling days and pre-“market correction” days. In other words, their team always wins, or comes close; they can count on what they make out of the stock market to pay for the vacation, set up a college fund and pay for tickets to see the Polygraphic Spree, or whatever. Also, as the Grinch would say, they poop ice cream.

By brian

August 19, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

On the glass half full side-

In years past, one of the reasons the Braves were knocked out so early in the playoffs was because they were so far out in front in their division. The Braves usually peaked too early. Then they would kick it back for a while and try to turn it on again for the playoffs. That just does not work.

If, and a big if, the Braves turn it on in September and make a big run, they will be hot when it counts - headed into October.

The Braves do have the pieces as Frenchy said, but all the pieces have to come together and play well at the same time. Has not happened yet this year

By Stats Lie

August 19, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, good post.

Those reasons you mentioned for watching are the reasons I still watch. Those are the reasons I watched the Braves of the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s. Anyone who followed the Braves during those down years were treated to some entertaining baseball. Entertaining doesn’t necessarily equate to successful, however. I wore my Braves cap, listened to every game and visited Fulton County as often as practical. When cable made an appearance and the games were televised in my area, I rarely missed a game. Yes…… even when they were routinely losing 95 or 100 games.

I will continue to watch the games. I’ll cheer when they win. I’ll cheer when they play with effort and conviction.

I’ll also call a spade a spade. This team has lots of holes in the lineup, particularly spots 3-5 in the rotation. The only way they can overcome having only 2 effective starters is to score lots of runs in virtually every game. They aren’t doing that. They have to be able to put up plenty of runs when Smoltz and Hudson pitch so they are assured of those wins. They also must put up even MORE runs when the other 3 starters are pitching just to give the team a chance to win. they aren’t doing that at all.

This team HAS to go on a winning streak playing about .800 ball. That will only put them in the final mix for the wildcard IMO.

Has ANYONE here seen anything from the teams performance this year to predict (without sounding like you’re on crack) that this team is capable of winning 24 out of 30? I’m not talking about all the individual talent, I’m speaking of team effort that says that every night someone will step forward and spark the team to victory?

I haven’t seen anything like that this season. There aren’t any 10 game winning streaks on the horizon. Numbers 3-4-5 in the rotation will assure that.

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Lew I know I will never win a Wurlitzer, but what about doing my portrait, dude? A likeness of Lee Marvin on the horse in Cat Ballou should do.

By Bob, Journalist

August 19, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

I haven’t read much since leaving yesterday but the air does seem less stale … I fear we will always be infested with parasites and those of little character who set their behavioral standards based on how far the envelope can be pushed … a few victories would be an excellent air freshener.

Now, I guess I’ll read William Wallace’s 12:02 to see what Lew is talking about.

By Lew

August 19, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

Uh Anders-Omar Minaya could not block a waivers trade to the Braves. The claims work in terms of worst to best records. The Braves, unfortunately, have a record worse than the Mets. As a matter of fact, the Mets couldn’t really block much of anyone except the D Backs. He was putting in a bid for the Mets-not to block the Braves.

By chrisklob

August 19, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, great post. The answer is simple though: so many of the people blogging here are not students of the game of baseball. The have absolutely no appreciation for the subtle nuances of this great sport. No, they can’t see anything past the W/L column. These people are much better off watching football than baseball. They say that baseball is a “thinking man’s” sport — something they can’t appreciate. They claim to be Braves fans but I call them fairweather fans — something that I have absolutely no tolerance for. For those that consider themselves to be students of the game yet continue to pepper this blog with hatred, I say that you are either spoiled from the past or you just don’t have a grip on this team’s current reality.

To be sure, I have been very disappointed at times this year. AJ hasn’t played well, the starting pitching hasn’t performed up to the par at which we are accustomed, which has put undue pressure on the bullpen, BC has made some head-scratching decisions, there have been some key injuries that have hurt, etc.

Yes, it’s been tough to be a Braves fan this year for sure.
Coming out of spring training I would never have guessed that we’d be only 5 games over .500 with 40 or so to play. But then again, I’m shocked that this team is only 1.5 games out of the wild card spot too!

I don’t consider myself to be a kool-aid drinking pollyanna nor a negative nelly. My feelings lie somewhere in the middle in a little place called reality. This team has issues, but so do the Mets, Phillies, Padres, Dodgers and Rockies. I see so much potential for the kids on this team that I still like our chances this year and well into the future.

Maybe 2007 isn’t going to be the Braves year, but maybe it is. Only time will tell. Until this team is mathematically eliminated from post-season play, I will hold out hope that something positive will come of the season. If they don’t make the playoffs, I will start looking towards ‘08 and beyond and dream of a stronger team with a brighter future. With new ownership not handcuffing the most creative, astute GM in the game, who knows what will happen in the off-season!

This blog has become nearly unreadable lately, especially after a loss. I’ve started scrolling past quite a few posts when I see that they are from certain bloggers because I know that it will contain nothing more than venom and hatred. Frankly, I’d rather have Mets Drool and his ilk posting here than these horrible fairweather fans. I expect to see attacks from the outside, but not from supposed Braves fans.

By Put Up The Damn Tee-Pee!! DAMMITT!!!

August 19, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

I believe it was Rick Camp instead of Rick Mahler who homered off Fernando. It was Camp who was such a terrible hitter…

By choppinmama

August 19, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

Just in case anyone missed this headline story when it appeared, Jonathan Schuerholz has “retired” from his baseball career and returned to school at Auburn. So, there’s one “connected” Georgia boy we won’t see playing for us in the bigs.

Good luck, Jon.

By Lew

August 19, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

Paladin-I did a great Clint Eastwood for a friend-one with him in the famous lice ridden pancho and two Colt .45’s crossed on his chest. He sent it to Clint in Carmel, Ca when he was Mayor and Clint signed it for him. Did a great John Wayne, too, but he was already dead. No autograph.

By Stats Lie

August 19, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

I want to clarify why I say the Braves need to play .800 ball the rest of the way to be in the final mix.

They are now 5.5 games back. The farther back the fall,and with the fewer games left, the higher winning percentage they will need to achieve. I’m talking wildcard as well as division championship. There are so many teams in the wildcard mix that it’s hard for any team to shoot for the wildcard as the goal.

Two weeks ago, they maybe needed to play .700 to make it.

One thing EVERYONE needs to consider. Once you’ve lost a game on the field, you can NEVER get that particular game back.

By Bob, Journalist

August 19, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

Who here will argue that it is harder to drive that run in from second when the game is tied or you’re down by a run rather than being up by 10 or down by 10 … there are those here who will argue anything … but there are also those who do seem to perform better when under pressure than when not, possibly because of a difference in focus.

The point that the relevance of statistics requires more than casual attention in their application is well made … however, that it’s easier to score when down by 10 late in the game is obvious as are most of the observations of the media … and, for those who closely follow the game, it’s relatively easy to discern the flaws in the observations of the media, or so we’d like to think.

That it’s easier to perform when relaxed should bode well for the Braves … perhaps it’s oblique or maybe I’m just obtuse but with our lineup, methinks there is no longer the need for cleanup hitters and RBI guys … maybe some players don’t realize that and are suffering from mistaken identity rather than identity theft or amnesia … it’s a common illness.

Earlier in the season, there was much talk about ABC baseball and the fact that we could get them on and sometimes get them over … but couldn’t get them in.

Now, we seem to be trying to play CCC baseball when methinks they should concentrate more on AAAAAA baseball … get them on, get them on and keep getting them on … if they do, they’ll get them in.

Color me an obtuse nut but methinks that’s our true identity, regardless of the power … forget the role playing and let it come together … it’ll happen if they’ll let it, and when it does, it’ll be awesome!

Quickly fading? I think not …

By KC

August 19, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Last night’s loss hurt a lot. 5-1/2 games back is not where the Braves wanted to be right now. However…

DON’T PANIC… BRAVES HOLD DESTINY IN THEIR OWN HANDS OVER THE NEXT 15 DAYS:

About 2 weeks from now, the Braves could very well find themselves just 1-1/2 or 2-1/2 out (and in 2nd place) in the east, and in 1st place in the Wild Card race. WHY? Let’s look at the schedules for the Braves, Mets, Phillies, and Padres over the next 12 days:

BRAVES:

Today, the D-Backs send Petit (2-3, 4.23 ERA) up against John Smoltz, who’s been known to come through a big game from time to time.

At Cincinnati (53-69)… We’ll start a 4 game series tomorrow during which we will not see their ace, Aaron Harang (because he’s pitching today).

At St. Louis (58-62)… on Friday for 3 games. They have only one starter with an ERA below 4.98, Adam Wainwright (11-9, 4.01). Wainwright will start in that series, but he’s scheduled to be opposed by Tim Hudson.

At Florida (56-67)… for 3 games beginning next Monday (8/27). before heading home to face the Mets at the Ted.

METS:

vs. San Diego (65-57)… for 3 game set starting Tuesday. The Mets are likely to see both Peavy and Young in that series!

vs. LA (63-60)… for 3 game series starting Friday in which they’re likely to see both Penny and Lowe.

At Philadelphia (65-57)… for a FOUR game series starting next Monday, before heading to Atlanta.

PHILLIES:…

vs. LA (63-60)… for a 3 game series starting Tuesday.

vs. San Diego (65-57)… for a 3 game series starting next Friday.

vs. NYM (69-53)… for a FOUR game series starting next Monday.

The best opportunities to gain ground in any race come when the teams ahead of you play head to head and beat each other up. Well over the next 12 days, the Mets and Phillies will play a four game series against one another, AND the Phillies and Padres (the 2 teams leading us in the WC) will play a series against one another.

While that’s going on, the Braves will play 10 games against 3 teams with a combined record of 167-198. Also, as previously pointed out… the Braves have run into good fortune on the pitching matchups over that stretch, while the pitching matchups couldn’t be much worse for the Mets.

No matter what the schedules look like in the East, the Braves aren’t going to be given anything. They’ll have to go out and take care of business. But the Braves SHOULD go 8-3 over their next 11 (Starting today with Smoltz on the mound). A team like the Braves is supposed to win series’ like these next 3. And if they do, they’ll be right back in business going into the next head-2-head matchup with the Mets at the end of the month.

By Stu

August 19, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, absolutely. What a great description of being a fan, not a championship-monger (nothing against championships, of course). I was gonna refute the guy, but you just nailed it. Well done!

Only thing I would add, aside from watching the current team develop, is that I would not trade the excitement of ‘91 and ‘92, the thrill of ‘95, and the chance to watch consistently good (sometimes great) baseball every summer for a decade and a half, for a couple of store-bought world series slipped in among a bunch of disastrous seasons.

It’s an interesting question: would you trade all those division titles for another WS championship? But, put another way - would you trade the Braves of ‘91-‘05 for the Marlins of the same period? No way, not even close, for me at least.

As to this season, the division is gonna be hard to win now, I think, but the wild card is well within reach. We just need a little winning streak - which has been hard to come across. But win three in a row, or 4 of 5, and we’re probably leading the wild card race.

And a wildcard team has played in the World Series the last 5 years in a row, and won 3 of them.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 19, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

What a tragedy last night’s game was. My wife threw me a surprise birthday party last night. She had my best friend’s mom make me a cake that looked like a Chipper Jones’ home jersey, but had my name on it above the number 10. And, what do the Braves do? They get blown out and allow a flippin pitcher to go 4 for 5. Pathetic! This better get its but in gear. They play 8 games between now and next Sunday. If they want to stay in the division and wild card races they better go 7-1. Otherwise they are done.

By SourPatchKid

August 19, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

KC, you sure saved me a bunch of time. I was about to check out all the upcoming schedules. I’ve gotta like our chances to make up a little bit of ground, if we can get out and win at least 2 of 3, maybe sweep one of the teams.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Edgar felt good doing the same figure-eight running drill that gave him trouble couple days ago. Also no problems taking batting practice for first time. I’d look for him to be activated during the Cincinnati series, maybe even by Monday, though Bobby hasn’t said that.

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

I’m going for my nap. Fortunately, those that think poking fun at that are still in bed. They wore themselves out last night, rippin’ up the Braves like curs at a bone. You folks, who I am proud to call fellow-Braves-fans, hold the fort until I get back.

By David-ATL14

August 19, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Thanks lew for correctly pointing out to the village idiot “anders” that Minaya can not block JS from anything.

Wish he could but alas he can not.

By AthensBrave

August 19, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

I just hope we can get back within 2-3 before the series with the mets at the end of the month.

After taking 2/3 again or possibly sweeping, we’d then be within 1-2 with a month to play.

I hate the d-backs

By KC

August 19, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

No matter what, if the Braves play as they should over the next 11 games, and then take 2 of 3 in that Mets series… they should find themselves absolutely no further out than 3-1/2 games on September 3rd. So as bad as 5-1/2 out looks right now… don’t sweat it just yet.

Also, the Padres play the schedule from hell over the next couple weeks… Phillies, Mets, and D-Backs. Ouch.

So if we can gain at least a couple games in the east over the next couple weeks… we should also find ourselves leading the Wild Card race.

By Bob, Journalist

August 19, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

William Wallace, I can write long one too … but I forget what I’m writing about when I try to so do … sorta like trying to hit home runs I guess.

Lew, methinks young Colin’s 12:16 deserves an award to but I dont know the category since there are so many who dont like to cheer for someone who loses. I doubt that it’s an inherited trait.

By Savannah Guy

August 19, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

What do we make of this season now?

First, the Braves: First, I’ll state the glaring obvious: The Braves have their collective backs against the wall. Time is running out on the season, but there are enough games to make anything happen…anything from first to worst. They have to regroup quickly to salvage a wild card berth. The Pennant is not out of reach unless they continue to play .500 baseball as they have been. Our 3 through 5 starters are not getting it done. Their lack of experience is glaring. Even our powerful hitting lineup has had the wind knocked out of them, when averaging 6 runs per game and we still won’t win more.

Then, there’s the Blog: Again, the obvious. Tex is getting slammed, even though he is seeing almost every NL pitcher for the first time and is doing fine. Bobby Cox is getting raked over the coals daily for his roster and game decisions. Criticism of Cox seems to have reached a “hate” level with some. The naysayers and nabobs have gotten more lathered up and extreme as their season-long dire and negative predictions seem to play out. They are ranting more often as the Braves continue to struggle. The “Kool-Aids”, which has become a misnomer for anyone who thinks Braves have a chance, are hanging in there with either hope or just a positive, well-rounded appreciation for the team and the game, win or lose.

So, what do we make of this season? Answer: make of it what you will. My advice is to enjoy every moment, every pitch, every diving catch, every nuance and every beautiful day of baseball left this season. Truth is, most of the “Kool-Aids” and the “Nabobs” have access to the same information, the same stats, the same team and player history and they watch the same games. For the most part, the naybobs seem no less bright, articulate and knowledgeable on baseball than the optimists, but they just seem to be missing the bigger point of it all. So why are their perspectives so vastly different? Well, I expect that most of the nabobs either are young, impatient, have a sense of entitlement (Braves have won every year since they started watching) and some may just have a more cynical or negative outlook on life…and they bring that to their sports and their blog. It’s understandable. Not enjoyable to read…but easy to spot and it’s obvious.

Those that have been watching longer, have more patience and a greater appreciation of winning and losing without losing faith in their team or the sport seem to make up the better part of the optimist side. The Kool-Aids also seem to maintain a better sense of humor and perspective. Losses don’t affect moods to the extreme. Admittedly, it’s maddening at times, frustrating and downright hard to watch. But it’s Braves baseball (sports) and, as tough as it is at times when the home team fails, it’s my team and my sport. I would feel that way if they were in last place.

So, what’s the point? The reason I’m spending time on this beautiful Sunday morning writing this is not because of the diversity of attitudes and perspective on the blog. It’s not that the blog has become an ongoing joust more than a conversation or reasoned forum of debate. At the end of the day, that’s not only ok, it’s preferred. But the message here is to remind some of the folly of their ways. If watching games is making you miserable, don’t. Give it a break. Take a walk or go to a movie. Humor, BBQ, music and interesting ditty’s are great for the blog. Criticism is also fine and good, as it adds to the interest and balance of the forum.

At the very least, show respect For those display disrespect and a lack of self-control, who can’t keep from incessantly venting (underline incessant) and profanely deriding everything and everyone on the team and the blog, for your sake and ours, please go find something else to do. I say this for your own health and for those of us that enjoy the Braves games and the blog. Pardon the length (brevity course soon).

It’s as simple as that. That’s all. Go Braves!

By KC

August 19, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

SourPatchKid:

The Braves deserve no excuses. They’ve lost some games recently they should have won. But it is worth noting that the Braves have played a fairly tough schedule lately. But now it’s the Mets’ and Phillies’ turn to play a tough stretch.

NY and Phili could both very easily wind up going 6-5 over their next 11 games.

For the Braves, I think anything less than 8-3 over the next 11 games would be a disappointment… while 9-2 (very doable, but only if James and Carlyle get their acts together) would likely rocket the Braves up the standings… especially if they could follow it up with a series win against the Mets.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Julio Franco had an RBI single and STOLE A BASE last night at Rome. Yes, the 49-year-old stole a base in a game against a bunch of guys about 30 years his junior.

Meanwhile, Jon Owings hit a homer for Rome in the same game. Yes, the brother of D-backs pitcher/slugger Micah Owings, who was busy going 4-for-4 with two homers and six RBIs while getting the pitching win and the winning RBi vs. the Braves.

By Stats Lie

August 19, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

I don’t share the same optimism by the schedule for the next two weeks. The Braves were swept at home earlier by the Reds and only one pitcher they faced was named Harang.

St. Louis is playing their best ball of the year. They are winning with players not named Chris Carpenter. As for Wainwright facing Hudson…all that tells me is that one of our two good pitchers who we usually post a win behind is facing a pitcher who can shut our team down and cost us one of our usual wins.

Florida? Yeah, the Marlins are leading the season series with the Braves and usually play the Braves tough.

Mets and Phils play the Dodgers….yes the same Dodgers who are in a free fall.

Mets and Phils play the Padres. Most anemic offense in the NL. If you can squeeze out 2 or 3 runs (which the Mets and Phils usually do) you can beat this team.

I have no idea how anyone can look at the schedule and find a reason to think the Braves will have an easier time on this road trip than the Phils and Mets will in the next ten days.

Phils play Mets. Someone will probably take 2 of 3. It will only determine the difference between first and second in the NL East. Neither of those teams are the Braves.

By Lew

August 19, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

Bob-Sorry, I don’t agree. A good test for the Award is-Is the post good enough for me to WANT to spend 20+ hours doing a drawing? Colin’s post was not that worthy. Certainly nothing against Colin as he’s never been a Troll and his posts are usually relevant, but that post just didn’t make me feel like spending that much time to reward him. For that much work, the post must be Top Of The Line-Like Wayne’s poem or Gil In Mechanicsville’s pain story. Or DOB’s dedication to we unworthies. Braveheart’s post showed exactly what a Baseball Fan SHOULD be. Colin was merely commenting. Again. Sorry.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy, I can certainly see where Teixeira would get slammed, huh? He’s only got six homers and 17 RBIs in 17 games for the Braves. Oh, but those two errors and that .258 batting average (it’s .258 after that first-inning homer), I guess that somehow offseats six homers, 17 RBIs and an OPS approaching 1.000 in 17 games?

Folks, he’s got 62 at-bats in a new league. If he goes 2-for-4 today and 2-for-4 tomorrow, he’ll be hitting .275. That’s how quickly an aveage can change in such a small sample. It’s a bit ridiculous to judge a guy based on his batting average in 60 at-bats, don’t you think? The errors have surprised me, too. But again, new fields, etc. And he’s made a few plays that Thorman and an aging Franco could only dream of making.

Bottom line: Six homers and 17 RBIs in 17 games, with an OPS of nearly 1.000. Not too shabby.

By Lew

August 19, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

I didn’t mean Colin was posting again, I meant that again, I was sorry that I didn’t find his post Wurlitzer Worthy.

By Savannah Guy

August 19, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

Braveheart WOW! A Wurlitzer for you. So well deserved (I knew you had it in you). Excellent attitude and brilliant post Cuz. Classic stuff.

When I got up this morning, I read through last nights posts and was once again dismayed at the negativism, vitriol and weirdness. So I shut’er down, went about my day, came back for lunch, wrote and posted my own take on this season before catching up on the blog.

As I proceeded to read through the blog, naturally I caught yours. You nailed it. Then I saw your post Lew…you recognized it. You have the “eye”.

Congrats again on the “Big W”.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

Hey, person using screen name STATS LIE. They sure do, if you’ve figured out a way to justify saying the Braves, who are 1-1/2 games behind the wild-card leader, need to play .800 ball the rest of the way to get in the playoffs.

That’s the must ridiculous, utterly illogical post of the past two days. And that’s REALLY saying something, to have earned that distinction.

So they’ need to go 31-8 in their final 39 games to win the wild card, huh? That’s good math, STATS LIE. Solid work, my friend. When you’re done using the Supercomputer, could you send it back to NASA so they can get the shuttle launched?

By Greg in TN

August 19, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Afternoon denizens…

Alternate jersey day today just a hair south of Ralph David Abernathy.

Braveheart, loved your 12:02, enjoyed the heck out of that.

It’s not at all been what we wanted the last three nights, especially last night. Owings had the type of games pitchers only dream of and I had to shake my head at DOB’s report on his little brother. Just exactly WHAT do they put in the water in Gainesville GA?

It’s not over till it’s over, folks. We have holes, we have problems, we haven’t been playing well, but until elimination comes, so those of you that would like to imitate Dandy Don Meredith and sing “Turn Out The Lights…”, by all means have at it. Just don’t be upset when I don’t join you.

By Chop Chop

August 19, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

DOB, Teixeira’s doing just fine. He’s just not the second coming of Fred McGriff. That’s what the media and Braves fans were comparing his acquisition to. This website certainly jumped on that bandwagon, right? Of course, the main difference between the ‘93 Braves and this year’s version is that the ‘93 team had three Hall of Famers in the rotation plus Avery.

By Savannah Guy

August 19, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

DOB Yes…Tex getting slammed is ridiculous. We’re in agreement, right?

By It's not fair

August 19, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

I’m with you real Braves fans not the deriders.Why do some of these meanies go on about what the team can’t do ? I wonder if they know Owings is the second coming of Babe Ruth and that no team of mortals will ever beat Webb.You real fans are correct to pour over the schedule looking for pitchers and teams these guys may be able(with god on their side) to hit against.Why should our boys be expected to hit major league quality pitching ?Why expect this team to rise to the challenge when we can hope other teams fall to their level ? Some guys just don’t get it do they ? IT’S JUST NOT FAIR.

By chrisklob

August 19, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Congratulations to John Smoltz!

By Chop Chop

August 19, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Is it just me or is Smoltz a “nattering nabob of negativism”? After all, he gets angry over the littlest things? Doesn’t he trust his offense?

(Okay…so I’m a little cynical.)

By Colin

August 19, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Thats a mistake a high school team doesnt make…u dont ever throw through with 1st and 3rd…wow…giving runs to them

By Steve from OH

August 19, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Tex sucks,huh?

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Good call ripping Teixeira. Good baseball acumen. Any more thoughts on the subject?

By Chop Chop

August 19, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

“The Crime Dog” Mark Teixeira with his second 2-run HR of the day. Yusmeiro Petit sure doesn’t look like the can’t-miss prospect he supposedly was in the Met organization. In fact, he looks like a bum, doesn’t he? Let’s hope he stays in the game a little while longer.

By Lew

August 19, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Well, I guess we now know that Tex can’t hit outside of Texas, does not like being with the Braves and has done us no good. Maybe the Rangers would take him back. Whatever. Some people are certainly beyond belief. Sign the guy long term today.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Teixeira’s hitting .270 with seven homers and 19 RBIs in 17 games for the Braves. Pretty much stinks.

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Mornin Folks: Not sure the Bravos that played 500 ball could be up 4-2 right now~ I realize Texiera cant pitch, But he does seem to impact every game he plays?

By Colin

August 19, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Tex is worth every penny we SHOULD pay after 2008….

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

Thats a mistake a high school team doesnt make…u dont ever throw through with 1st and 3rd…wow…giving runs to them

Colin, that’s a rule only high school teams strictly adhere to because of the lack of skills, arm, and expertise.

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

Just saw a holiday Inn commercial, With all due respect to Cal Ripken, Man that guy is starting to look like Uncle Fester?

By Colin

August 19, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

That hr was a laser….Chipper with a gem…any score with the MUTS? or Phillies

By MEB

August 19, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

Got a new jersey that I’m gonna wear-ah.

And written on the back is Mark Tuh-share-uh.

Watch the video again

By Chop Chop

August 19, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Tex is a very good player. Just remember the expectations put on his arrival by so many here in the Atlanta media and in the national media. Some fans actually do buy into that hype, so there will be some backlash because of the continued mediocrity exhibited by the Braves. It’s not “beyond belief”. In fact, it’s only natural.

By BravesFanChris22

August 19, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

Teixeira with two 2 run homers, is a good sign he might be getting comfortable in the NL. The Tex rippers/bashers must be loving humble pie about now.

By Colin

August 19, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

Did anyone see Clemens yesterday…either he has quick reflexes at 40 some yrs old or that was planned…

By It's not fair

August 19, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Is Teixeira a good player ? of course.Can he make this team better at some point ? maybe.has he made them better so far ? short answer..8 wins 8 losses.

By boog

August 19, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

?

By Bob, Journalist

August 19, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

It’s easy to second guess but with Smoltz having 2 strikes on Mark Reynolds and runners on the corners … should the tying have scored?

Lew, I received an email regarding my post … agreeing with you and suggesting I tell Colin that he will probably change, shortly after becoming a father.

Mark looks more intense and John looks good too, a few too many pitches in the heat perhaps … Frenchy looked like he was trying to pull everything Andruw too though Chip is calling this a good at bat.

I missed the first of the game … how did the bad guys score their first run?

By The older and incredibly hungover Grinch

August 19, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Oh, dear lord please make my head stop hurting. I’m fixing to go soak my head in a sinkful of ice water like Huey Lewis in the “I wanna new drug” video. BLAH! Thank you to all who wished me a happy b-day yesterday; it made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Bob, I had some 15-year-old Glenlevit French Oak reserve and a Macanudo just for you. It was everything else that caused the headache. :-)

I also wish to thank the Braves for turning in such a stellar performance; thank god I didn’t check the score ‘till this morning. 5 1/2 back at this point is bad, but they ain’t dead yet. I refuse to give up.

Chop Chop, I agree. Tex is pulling just as much weight so far as McGriff was, but the rotation ain’t exactly the same. Even if we fall short, though; this team with a few tweaks is gonna flat out run away with it next year. And as I said, this year ain’t over yet.

Now, Falcons…why, DJ? Why? What a thoroughly ill-timed knee injury. Alert: The only two QB’s on the roster are Joey Harrington and Chris Redman. D’OH! D’OH! D’OH!

I’m off for a vitamin shake and a nap.

By Colin

August 19, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Any suggestion on how to get Escobar in the Lineup when Edgar comes back?

By Savannah Guy

August 19, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist 12:16 post deserves something for sure. Since Lew has declined awarding a Wurlitzer for our young fan, perhaps you could suggest a more fitting trophy? Perhaps there’s a prize for those that, “dont watch them to lose”, and “have way to much talent to be underachieving so bad”?

What’s the opposite of Wurlitzer? Kazoo? Mouth Harp? Washboard? So many options…

By Lew

August 19, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

ChopChop-What’s beyond belief is that some actually think that seven HR’s and 17RBI in 17 games is a lack of production. I’m concerned that the Braves are not playing to capacity, but damn well would never even THINK to blame it on Tex.

Who was it that said Smoltz never gets any offensive support? Maybe they should have told Escobar and Tex. They apparently didn’t get the message. Willie Harris either.

By Stats Lie

August 19, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB DO YOU actually think that whoever wins the wildcard is going to stumble into it? What team in recent memory has won the wildcard by backing into it? Not very many. Most teams that win the wildcard finish the season hot.

The Mets are getting healthier. So are the Phillies. It would not be outrageous to think that the Mets could go 25-13 for the remainder of the season. Guess what smart guy….if they did, the Braves would have to go 31 and 8 to beat them!

Wildcard won’t be any easier….too many teams in the mix.

While we’re at it smart guy,whats with you making statements earlier in this blog about Owings for the D-backs. You indicated that it was a shame that this guy played for the D-Backs instead of the Braves.

The guy has a career game at the plate against a journeyman pitcher who is struggling and throws a 3 hitter against an offense that was struggling last night. Now he’s Cy Young——- no Babe Ruth?

The guy had a career night. End of story. He isn’t Babe Ruth. He isn’t Cy Young. He deserves credit for his performance for ONE NIGHT. But you lament him being in Arizona rather than Atl. Yeah… you’re a great judge of talent all right. If we had this guy we would be set huh?

Hey Dave, one thing you’ve proven running this blog. You are wrong as often as you are right. So are the rest of us. The difference being you look like a bigger idiot when you are wrong because you scream louder than most. Notice I didn’t say make your point. I said scream. Guys like you who can’t disagree without being insulting to an individual usually lack something in their character or life. I stick by my prediction. My computer seems to work as well as yours considering some of the “pearls of wisdom” you’ve shared as the season has progressed.

Now lets hear that “whatever” smart guy!

By Lew

August 19, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Braveheart-I know you’re stunned with your Wurlitzer win, but if you don’t contact me, I can’t work it out now, can I? BTW-There is one other blogger here who is close to a Wurlitzer Win. In fact, they came in second to Gil In Mechanicsville o0n his win. It just goes to show, you never know. Keep those intelligent, creative posts coming. The Wurlitzer Selection Committee is ever vigilant.

By BravesFanChris22

August 19, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Escobar with his 2nd homer and KJ missed one by an inch or two.

I like how Joe Simpson keeps taking shots at Angel Hernandez. When Petit balked, he said “Its fun to watch how a real balk is called” or something of that nature.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

Actually, it’s seven homers and 19 RBIs, Lew. Not 17. And it is amazing. Also absurd and not worth debating with those folks, really.

Like the post from It’s Not Fair. You take a team’s record since this person or that joined it, and if the record’s better, that player’s a success. If it’s not, he’s not. Good thinking. Way to go, It’s Not Fair. Good understanding of the game. It’s not Carlyle or Chuck who was at fault the last couple nights, it’s Teixeira. He did make that error, you know. That’s three unearned runs (nevermind the Braves trailed 12-1 in that game before getting the late homers).

Whatever.

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 12:02 PM **EXCELLENT post my friend!!!!! How bout AJ today? That non-pitcher Mark T? Would really be cool if AJ goes on one of his Tears huh? Would make your post all the more relevant (prophetic)

By a-ville Ranger

August 19, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

What this offense looks like of late is a poor man’s version of some of those 90s squads.Today as of Johnson’s double every hit has been on a gofer ball except Harris’ triple which was a good low and inside pitch.So we’re back to Bobby ball I guess.I’ve said before this has been the one real flaw in the Braves’ m.o. for 16 years.

By Chop Chop

August 19, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

That Maddux-like F-bomb Smoltz dropped after his K of Reynolds in the third (right after the double steal) leads me to believe that he doesn’t feel like he is allowed to give up any runs at all. It was not the F-bomb of a man confident in his offense. Fortunately for him, the team and the sanity of some here, the offense has done some damage today.

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

Lew I would be very honored to be the recipient of a Wurlitzer. So honored I would request that it be made for my father so I can present it to him on his birthday. I would know nothing about baseball - how to play it or how to be a fan - without my father. I am sure that is how most of us are. So since I am being rewarded for a post on how a fan should be, it only makes sense for me to receive it and then give it to my pops as a present. Unfortunately, for the blog, that will mean the player being Wurlitzered will be Derek Jeter - my pop’s favorite player.

Is the post good enough for me to WANT to spend 20+ hours doing a drawing?

I thought Lew was going to say is the post good enough for me to spend the 20+ hours it usually takes to read the posts of Braveheart, Bob Journalist, Scribe, and Savannah Guy? Maybe a new RROE should be that no post should take longer to write or read than it takes Lew to complete a Wurlitzer. :o> Just kidding because then this would be my last post.

Thanks again, Lew. Email will be coming shortly with the requested info.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Bad info earlier on Jon Owings. He didn’t go deep last night for Rome. He does lead them with 14 homers though. And yes, Julio did steal a base and have an RBI single for Rome last night.

By Colin

August 19, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Willy Mo Pena puts the Nats ahead 2-1

By Lew

August 19, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Not Fair-Could be that without him, the Braves would only have been 4-12.

By Stats Lie

August 19, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

I seem to remember DOB stating as a FACT earlier in the year that the Braves WOULD NOT even consider putting Salty in a game at first this season.

Guess what? That’s exactly what they did.

I also remember last year DOB slamming bloggers who said the Braves were done at mid season. Guess what? They were done at mid season! Wrong again there Dave!

See, you are wrong sometimes aren’t you big boy?

By Colin

August 19, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Nice hustle by TEX jus a little short…

By Damzel

August 19, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

I’ve always said Smoltz is the Braves most stat-happy, “me first” player and it was no surprise he was well aware of his strikeout mark—throwing the ball into the dugout right away.

I love how he stretches and twists after every opponents hit, as if he is trying to overcome horrible pain and stiffness.

Keep up the good work John, you are Atlanta’s bold, brave, balding warrior.

By Bob, Journalist

August 19, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

Good inning for John … I don’t think Tex needs his horn tooted … but the first out at third is never good … I didn’t see it but why is Brian still on first?

By MEB

August 19, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Stats Lie… Uh, dude… Owings is from Gainsville, GA. The guy would be a natural on a Braves roster filled with Georgia natives and those with Georgia connections. Heck his family and frineds occupied an entire section at the Ted last night.

GO BRAVES!!!

By Carolina Lady

August 19, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, congratulations! That post should be required reading!

As soon as I read it I knew I was going to contact Lew and the rest of the committee, then saw Lew’s response to you. If you’ve never seen his art, you are truly in for something special!

On another topic: my take on some of the ‘negative’ posters is that they are the product of the instant generation and want instant gratification in all things, including baseball season results. Anything else is not unacceptable and they can’t deal with it, accustomed as they are to quick microwave this and that, instant on electronics, quick drive-thrus, etc etc etc. No depth, no real understanding.

At times, what I’ve read conjures up mental images of toddlers laying on the floor, kicking feet and pounding fists, because something didn’t go their way.

Someone mentioned above that at times, the more positive people don’t come around. If they are like me, they read some of the impossible posts written, roll their eyes, and keep going. Tantrums are never pleasant to be around. My 2 cents.

By ElbravoX-- EbX

August 19, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

Tex can’t run at all, B-mac can out-run him!

By Lew

August 19, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Braveheart-I’m sure your father will like his Derek Jeter portrait. No problem. I would even do Mike Mussina for Carroll Rodgers if that’s who she really wanted. I may decline to do one of Jose Reyes or Moises Alou, however. I DO have standards. Carlos Beltran? Maybe, if I could find a picture of his reaction to Wainwright’s curve, though.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 19, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

TheSouthernJackAss will now perform an exploit that has never before been executed on this blog, unheard-of in the chronicles of bloggery…TheSouthernJackAss will now…ban himself…from the blog…Good day A$sClowns!…

By Lew

August 19, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

Stats Lie-Dude, so what if the Braves were out of the race last year at mid season? So what if they are out of it right now? What does it matter if you are right or wrong? Got a bet going with someone? I suggest you read Braveheart’s earlier post about what there IS to cheer about and look forward to. Why can’t you revel in baseball instead of your Prophecy Correction Rate (PCR-maybe you could impress Billy Beane with it)? Just why is it that you watch baseball? To impress your friends and various statisticians with the profundity of your dubious wisdom? Or are you just trying to get Shaun to take notice of you?

By ssiscribe

August 19, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

Atta boy Braveheart! Got yourself an honest-to-goodness Wurlitzer! Welcome to the family, bro.

You can bring that bad boy out to the Instructional Scribin’ Shindig in Vegas, eh … Arizona come October.

KC, right on about looking at the next two weeks. I was thinking about that myself driving to church this morning. Sure, 5 1/2 looks bad right now, but it can be 2 1/2 really quick. And, that doesn’t factor in the head-to-head stuff.

And if the Mets catch fire — which I see nothing to lead me to believe that’s going to happen — I’m cool with that. Send the Braves on the road with Smoltz and Huddy in Games 1 and 2 of the NLDS. Even if the destination is Phoenix. I’ll take my chances with that.

OK, gotta get back to family day at the ol’ abode. For now, keep rolling Bravos.

The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Stats Lie

August 19, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

MEB, I understand he’s from Ga., I just don’t think thats reason enough to wish he was a Brave. I like the idea of local guys on the team, but that in itself is not always the method to build a winning roster. It can increase attendance…..for a while but what keeps attendance up is a winning team. Fill the team with a roster of Ga residents and lose 95 a few years in a row and there will be plenty of empty seats.

But that is my opinion only. I could be wrong, unlike some others here who are ALWAYS right. Or at least think they are always right.

By MEB

August 19, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady… you’re 2 cents are right on the money as usual. There are many here who have no appreciation for an old Southern mannerism that was characterized by patience and self control. These qualities were what earned a true Southerner respect and admiration.

GO BRAVES!!!

By Carolina Lady

August 19, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop, referencing your post: Those who think like that are what I call “surface fans” because they don’t know enough about the game or the players to have any real understanding of either.

Somebody else said it better earlier: they want a homerun every AB and a win in every game. Right.

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

Maybe, if I could find a picture of his reaction to Wainwright’s curve, though.

LOL Lew! I was going to say the same thing. My pops would actually probably love the “just browsing” shot of Beltran the most. He would probably scan that sucker sitting there with a blank stare and his bat on his shoulder and email that to all of his obnoxious Mets fan coworkers. But I’ll stick with Jeter because Jeter can do no wrong in his eyes - and we’re trying to be positive here.

I’m not sure if Carroll would want Mussina or not. I was just teasing her the other night because she mentioned a couple of months ago about how dreamy she thought Mussina was.

By Stats Lie

August 19, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Lew “dude”

If you read up you’ll notice I commented on Bravehearts post and said I agreed with most of what he said and that the reasons he mentioned were why I watched the Braves all these years EVEN when they stunk! That’s why I will continue to watch.

Whats’ up with some of you guys? If someone states that they don’t think the team has the makeup to be a playoff team they are all wet yet those who say that this team is going to make the playoffs are absolutely correct!?

So Lew, “dude”, I should just not post if I don’t agree the Braves are going to make the playoffs?

By StingerSplash

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

DOB,

The freedom of speech also allows for the freedom to blog really dumb, inane, asinine or just downright ridiculous statements. I understand your frustration with some folks who just don’t get - case in point of many, the Teixeira bashers - but even waving the fire in their eyes like the kid in Raiders of the Lost Ark - Temple of Doom ain’t gonna change their small minds. They’re gonna believe what they want to believe, right up until the last out of the World Series or the first pitch of spring training. BTW, Smoltz — 10Ks, 7 IP, 97 pitches, 66 strikes. Not bad for a geezer. The guy is still money.

By StingerSplash

August 19, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

Holy crap, I shorted Smoltzie a strikeout. That’s 11Ks in 7 IP, and he’s still at it (though this is one time I would really rather have Cox tell his starter he’s done and turn it over to Moylan et al and save Smoltz. Then again, maybe the pride of Michigan wanted to stay in there). And after K No. 12, I don’t think a foursome at East Lake would pull him out of there now.

By Carolina Lady

August 19, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

Thanks, MEB!
We used to say “All flap and no throttle.” :-))

By a-ville Ranger

August 19, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

When is the last time Chipper or Kelly has fouled off 10 or so tough pitches and forced a pitcher to make a mistake ? When do you last remember McCann pulling his hands in on a high inside pitch and driving it to right ? Come on folks think. When is the last time this team has forced a good pitcher to a high pitch count ? It’s been longer than you care to think about hasn’t it.This is a fundamental thing not just bad luck.

By BravesDave

August 19, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

Who are all these people that have been ripping Teixiera??? I think I have seen one post that said Teixiera was not producing in the past week. Are people misinterpreting that fact that some people are claiming that the Braves are not playing better since Teixiera arrived as a slam at Teixiera?? I certainly do not think it has anything to with Tex. He has been excellent since he arrived. It is great to watch another one of the best players in baseball every night, along with Chipper and the rest. Don’t misinterpret unhappiness with the Braves overall play as unhappiness with Tex.

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

August 19, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

I don’t know, do you think Smoltz should extend himself here???

By KC

August 19, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

Stats Lie:

First of all, I never suggested the Braves were going to make up 5 games over the next 11. But why you wouldn’t be optimistic about the Braves ability to gain 2 or 3 games over the next couple weeks is beyond me.

Yes, we were swept by the Reds earlier in the season. However, Harang pitched a great game in that series and won’t pitch in this one.

Also, that was the pre-Tex/Mahay Braves. This is a much better offensive team… and don’t underestimate the importance of Mahay.

In that last series with the Reds, they won one of those games on a clutch late-inning hit by Griffey. We didn’t have a quality lefty to throw at Griffey in that game. No guarantee Mahay would have gotten an out in that situation… but it’s a fact that Griffey hits 50 points lower against lefties.

Also, both Davies and Reyes started for the Braves in that series. Obviously, neither of those players are with the team any longer.

It’s a completely different situation my friend.

As for your attempt to minimize the ferocity of the Mets schedule over the next couple weeks… Yes, the dodgers have been scuffling, but when you have to face Penny and Lowe in a 3 game series… that’s no walk in the park.

And they still have to face San Diego, with BOTH Young and Peavy going in that series for the Padres… and then a 4 game set in Philadelphia.

Yeah, sure man. Whatever you say.

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Serbok Man that guy is starting to look like Uncle Fester? As an “Uncle” myself, I resent that. And, I thought we were going to keep “personalities” out of this. :-)

And I want to add my congrats to nephew Braveheart. Knew that kid would make good; although he was the one at the family meals-together that asked the blessing ‘til the food got cold, or hot. :-)

By Savannah Guy

August 19, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady Well said at 2:48. Your two cents always have the value of gold nuggets.

By Lew

August 19, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Stats Lie-No “Dude”, go ahead and post whatever you desire-BUT…..don’t be surprised that if you post the same old obvious crap when someone will mention it to you. There has been nothing you posted today that wasn’t said between one AM and 3:30 this morning. Or last night. Or the night before. Or since the second week of this season. Your lack of originality is laughable. What we have all been trying to tell you (to no avail, it would seem), is that we don’t care what you think of the Braves’ chances from here on out. We will continue to cheer for them and hope they will finally achieve to the level we all know they are capable of playing. Just because you, Coach, N8, Braves Dave and UGA Brave consider the season to be over, doesn’t mean we, or the Braves, for that matter, should hang it up.

We don’t really care if you are right in your assessment or not. Right now, what you are obscuring, is a well pitched game by a pro who many feel is on his last legs. He set the record for Braves’ strikeouts today. Tex hit two out. Yunel nailed one and a double as well. Kelly Johnson has hit two doubles. Revel in what you have. Do you think the aforementioned players have quit because you tell them they are doomed? Do you really expect us to buy into your hopelessness? Do you expect a Wurlitzer for Prophecy? Whatever. Your wait may be quite long.

By KC

August 19, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

Stats Lie: To be clear (and I mentioned this earlier)… I’m not suggesting the Braves have any of these upcoming game in the bag. They still have to go out there in execute.

But I don’t see how you can possibly deny that the Braves SHOULD go 8-3 (starting today) over their next 11. Not that they’re assured of doing so… but they should do it, and we should expect it.

If they do so, there’s a great chance of picking up a couple games heading into the next Mets series.

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

What a performance by Smoltzie huh? Is there anyone here on the Blog today, that can Criticize his performance today? NOW WE have Wicky commin in to finish? IF Wickman Blows it!!!!!!! Then, the Kool-Aids on me!!!!! LOL

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

I knew without looking that the Braves were ahead when some of the nabobers started climbing back aboard and “justifying” their comments from last night’s blog. Have a seat, guys. We really missed you. Not!

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

Would love Wicky to walk bases loaded? Then a line drive Triple play to chip? :o)

By journalist jimmy smith

August 19, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

journalist has just returned from a day on beautiful lake lure. journalist returns to find a score of 6-2 braves. this is most satisfactory to jimmy smith after the past two games. wicky is now in the game and let’s hope wicky can close out this game. oh, the humanity! a hit! smoltz must be a little concerned - again. now, a new wurlitzer winner - bravehert - congratulations!

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

Confucius say: Stats Lie down with dogs and get fleas. But, you don’t have to bring them in here.

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

August 19, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Wicky is hitting 93!!! Chucky, gain some weight already!!!

By Stephen

August 19, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

If Bob Wickman blows a 4 run lead……….

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady Afternoon most revered lady:o) Really enjoyed your “instant” post :o) I couldnt agree more! I wonder if that Genre of ppl have ever had “real” Mashed potato’s? or just instant? WELL Triple play isn’t gonna happen? How bout an unassisted put out by Wicky?

By MurphyRules

August 19, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

I think I might throw up.

By StingerSplash

August 19, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Is this Bob Wickman or the second coming of “Full Pack” Stanhouse?

By Stats Lie

August 19, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

Lew “dude”

The same old obvious crap has been posted by you a few times as well. You know, “under all this horse ** there has to be a pony!”

When you post your “usual”, it’s not crap. But when I post what I believe, it’s been said and it’s crap.

It’s in the eye of the beholder. My postings are crap to some. But I assure you that your postings are crap to others.

KC….. contrary to what you might believe, I hope you’re right and the Braves go 8-3. I don’t think they will, but I actually hope I’m wrong and the Braves go on a streak.

By Stephen

August 19, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

Thank God.

By KC

August 19, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

I don’t care that Wickman got out of it. He just as easily might not have. Time to give Moylan a chance to close!!!!!!

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

WOW Peter Moylan is warming up?

Ya think maybe he shoulda been in the game? Bravo’s Win:o)

By StingerSplash

August 19, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

Thank God. I can breathe now. Boy, I’d hate to think what would happen from here on out if Wickman had coughed up a four-run lead in the ninth.

By brent a.

August 19, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

It befuddles me how the math majors on here fail to see how it will be easier to win the Wild Card than it will be to win the division.

In both cases, we trail 2 teams, but in the WC chase, we only trail by 1.5 games.

We have to catch the Phillies either way.

It will be easier to catch San Diego than the Mets.

The key is for us to win games, plain and simple.

People act like the Wild Card is some new-aged phenomenon that is hard to figure out.

Let me make it simple. When the Mets play the Padres here in a week, or so, cheer for the Mets to sweep, and hope that the Braves simultaneously sweep their opponent.

That way, we don’t lose ground on the Mets, and will likely have the Wild Card lead.

Folks, if we don’t win games, then we won’t make the play-offs. If we do win games, though, the WC is well within reach.

To catch the Mets, the key will be head2head competition.

We have 6 games left, if we don’t take 5/6, we’re probably not going to catch them.

By a-ville Ranger

August 19, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

There’s nothing special about this team the way they’re hacking at the ball now.Time to hike up mount graybeard,later folks.

By Carolina Lady

August 19, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy, thank you, sir! (blush)
BTW, I don’t think all your email is getting through…….again……..

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

BRAVES WIN!

MAGIC NUMBER FOR NL EAST IS 45!

MAGIC NUMBER FOR POSTSEASON IS 41!

By KC

August 19, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

Allowing a runner or two in the 9th is one thing… but forcing someone to warm up behind you every time out is another.

Give the job to Moylan.

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

August 19, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

KC,

You are too negative, Wicky got it done!!! ;)

He just likes to keep it interesting, he wouldn’t have gotten a save if he struck out the side to start, right???

By Carolina Lady

August 19, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

Howdy, Serbok! Great minds and all that…. :-)) Mashed potatoes, brewed iced tea - the list is long!

Scalp’em, if you’re around - I made biscuits from your recipe last night. Simply delicious! Mom and Beloved Daughter raved about them! Thanks!!

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

Thanks to everyone for your kind words. I guess an example of what I was talking about was that last night, I got so angry as a fan that I turned off the game. I think I even jokingly threatened to smash the pitcher of Kool Aid off the wall. But then I woke up this morning and read the box score and was not as angry about the game - was looking more forward to today’s game. But I was very angry to find out that Frenchy had hit two home runs and I had missed it because I was too angry about what the outcome of the game was going to be. It was Frenchy’s homers that inspired me to write what I had said.

By Greg in TN

August 19, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

All hail the Braves’ new Mr. K, John Smoltz. It’s a really nice way to punctuate what has been a frustrating string of games. Less than a hundred away from 3,000 which he should reach late July, early August next year if everything else remains the same.

Have to also give a tip of the cap to the esteemed Braveheart again after finding out that his post earlier today won the Wurlitzer. Great stuff, Braveheart. Congrats!

Wick finishes the job in the ninth, but again, not without a little drama.

Nice end to the weekend gang. We have a trip up I-75 to the Queen City and the Reds. This is a good opportunity to get a little payback for their sweep. I have to think we’re in a great position to start that series on a good note with Huddy going tomorrow.

By Serbok

August 19, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

LEW! I want a “Wurlitzer Prize”!!!!! I am a “lover” of the arts. Just curious, have ya ever heard of a guy named Hieronymus Bosch? If not (most havent heard of him) Look him up on the web. Not everyone’s cup of Tea? But h3ll Mark Texiera cant pitch? lol The guy was really a real Trip!!!!

By Lew

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

Stas Lie-Then I guess I should run and hide my face, never to post again or to do another Wurlitzer drawing because you and (unnamed) others don’t deem me worthy? Maybe I should just quit like y’all would have all us overly optimistic fans and the Braves do, because you think we stand no chance. Whatever. As for the poiniency of our respective posts-I sure as hell haven’t seen your name being mentioned as being a respected member of the blog. Have you? Of course, maybe if you actually used YOUR name…. As a matter of fact, look at the responses we’ve both had to our posts today. You’re the only one who has issues with mine (seemingly personal, from what I can see), whereas numerous bloggers have mentioned the odor of excrement emanating from yours. You’re the one not passing the smell test, DUDE-not me.

By Paladin

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

I am not a BC basher, remember? But, come next season I want that HOF manager up here on the porch with the rest of us geriatric geezers. We’ll give him something to do. But, when he gives that now famous motion with his left hand, it will be the signal for us to shift our weight and cross our left legs in the rockers.

But, NO BOOGERS! Miz Agnes is a stickler for that. If you got boogers, take ‘em to your room to deal with ‘em.

By Current GOP War Hero LOL

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

Okay you guys didn’t like my SEC football analogy to the Braves’14 year run,. This time we will stick to pro sports. If the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, St Louis Cardinals, or any other heralded MLB franchise you can think of had won 14 divisional titles in a row with ONE World Championship to show for it do you honestly believe the people who live in those cities and buy tickets and follow those teams would be bragging about the feat and saying those who demand more are spoiled???

Most importantly—-and now HONESTLY, how much “greatness’ did it take to beat out 2 teams with no financial resources(Marlins and Expos/Nats), a team that has NEVER!!!!!!!—Two less than the Marlins——won a World Series(Phillies) and a Mets team that I bet most of you would admit was run like a farce up until last 2 years. So I’ll stretch it and include the Mets and Phillies—The Atlanta Braves Dominated and Owned the Phillies and Mets for a 10 year period while having some of the best pitching talent on staffs in MLB history.

NOW if fans(short for FANatics, and you know how we hate them because of blind loyalty and dismissal of reason)) of the Braves are proud that having the advantage of a garbage division and parlaying that into half as many World Championships as the Marlins are proud of that achievement—Well, good for you.

By Mark

August 19, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

Let’s face it folks, this team isn’t going to the playoffs. They are too, too, mediocre. As long as we have guys like James, Cormier, Carlyle, Soriano, Wickman, Yates we are never going to get hot! Get Andruw’s butt out of here and let them use that money to get a top starter.

We’ll probably go 5-5 on this next roadtrip and then the Mets and Phillies will finish us off.

By A-ville Ranger

August 19, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

I thought I’d have a last look before leaving.JJS I live 20 miles from lake Lure and I kayak there regularly.Are you on vacation or do you live near here ? I recommend the east end of the lake at sunset.The shadows on the gorge along with a breeze that is drawn through the gap at that time of day make for a transcendent experience.Well gotta hit the trail,later all.

By Mark

August 19, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Current GOP War Hero, you are absolutely right about that. I a big Braves fan and I know that in all of those cities that you mentioned, Bobby Cox would have been run out of town. I have said it alot, but the Marlins have accomplished more than the Braves. If we had won more than 1 World Series, the fans would believe.

By Alex

August 19, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

John Smoltz willed his way to victory today, and blubber Bob Wickman almost blew the game…one good swing away! Apparently no lead is big enough to have an “easy” save with Wickman, ever, not even at the Ted!

Stats Lie, dude, of course it’s your opinion, it’s a fraking blog. What else would it be?

Finally a win, I’m glad to see that D’Backs are off the Braves schedule for the rest of the year, I’ve seen enough of those guys, they seem to give the Braves problems the last 2 years like the Florida Marlins usually do!

KC

Thanks for looking up that schedule stuff, saves us time and I agree, I expect the Braves to go at least 8-4, 9-3.

Joe Simpson kept on repeating it today…after 2 weeks you will know a lot more about the Braves chances as far as the playoffs are concerned this season.

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

Current GOP War Hero LOL How many boxes of crayons did it take you to come up with that moniker? And, could you shorten it, please? It makes it very difficult to talk to you. Come to think of it, never mind.

By Lew

August 19, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Serbo-Not only have I been familiar with Bosch’s work for literally decades, but I wrote an extensive paper on his use of Avian Symbolism in The Garden Of Earthly Delights tryptich for grad school at UGA. My professor from that class wrote a book on Bosch’s use of the Canticle Of Isaiah in his paintings. Bosch was a Strange little Dude, wasn’t he?

By MEB

August 19, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

You know I got to thinking after responding to Stats Lie that I would like a team comprised of Georgia natives. Well… we can throw in other geographic locales under the Braves umbrella like; Alabama, Tenn, Miss, the Carolina’s, Northwest Florida, etc. This way it truly makes the Braves the “home” team when they play at the Ted. Yeah I know this is a pipe dream and the players union would never go for it, but a guy can dream can’t he?

GO BRAVES!!!

By GermanBravesFan

August 19, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

I find it interesting that almost everybody on this blog talks about “catching the Mets.” Don’t forget about the Phillies - they’ve been playing well lately! I sure hope we can catch either one of the two teams ahead of us to give us a chance at the playoffs. Who cares about the NL East title…

By Lew

August 19, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

We won today. Wickman did not give up a run in his relief effort. What, exactly is y’all’s problem with this? You gripe if we lose and you gripe if we win. We needed to win today and the team stepped up, both offensively and in the pitching department. Smoltz pitched well. The hitters hit and Wicky closed it down. They won the game. Pretty or not makes absolutely no difference. The W is still a W in the standings.

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Did y’all notice in the excitement of things SJA’s latest exit? Banned himself, no less. Wonder if it was a ceremonial fall-on-your-own-sword thing? Did DOB/Carroll say do it to yourself, or we will do it? Only the Shadow knows.

Anyway, I hope he comes back. It will be quite lonely for miscreants like me, if he doesn’t.

By Chop Chop

August 19, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

GBF,

Luckily enough, the Phils have blown 4-run leads the last two days, including giving up 7 runs in the bottom of the 7th in today’s game to give the Pirates a 7-4 lead. The Braves are certainly right in the hunt for the wild card. The question is really whether they can play well enough (whatever “well enough” needs to be, I don’t really care) to secure that wild card.

By Savannah Guy

August 19, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

The debate goes on: Is Bobby Cox Done?

Due to the overabundance of BC slams and back and forth on the blog, I’ve taken a look at the debate and have written a too long post on the subject here. Pardon the length. Tried to be brief. Had to get it out.

Bobby Cox has seen his better days as a manager. No one would argue that fact, and he does seem to have more difficulty this year over any prior year for obvious reasons. He’s no spring chicken, yet I’ll wager that he can out walk and outthink the majority of folks anywhere near his age. Does he deserve a lot of credit for our many winning seasons? You bet.

Would we have won as many pennants without him? In a word, no. More World Series rings? Perhaps…I saw the games as most of you did and some of the moves seemed ill advised. But who really knows what was going on behind the scenes? I’ll give him deserved benefit of the doubt on those. Players love him, he’s had a brilliant career and I’m sure he’s a good guy. Does he deserve much of the criticism and humorous pokes he gets (I’ve given them)? Of course…as do ALL managers and all players. It comes with the territory as a public/sports figure. But there is a reasonable line that shouldn’t be crossed if you are a fair and seasoned fan or critic.

Bobby deserves respect as a manager and a human being. He gets that from all but a few. His detractors on this blog probably make up the large percentage of those that criticize him, and that’s a very small percentage of people that watch the games and know the game. Is game strategy his strongest suit? I don’t think it’s ever been his strongest talent, per se. Do the Braves seem to miss opportunities at times because of the “comfort” of the clubhouse and the length of time Bobby will allow for a player to come out of a slump? I admit to thinking that many times, but who really knows?

Cox is a great (the greatest) full season, player development manager and the team loves his style of leadership, yet we point out how many close games and titles have eluded him over the years for the little things he did or didn’t do. Seems to me that, whether or not he is the best strategist and tactician on the field, his brand of leadership has gotten the Braves to the dance more than any other.

How many pennants would we own if the club didn’t have his style of management? How do you separate patient player development and their resulting season long, winning performances from game strategy? I can’t. Either way, Bobby’s way has worked, therefore, he has worked.

If you like stats and metrics for these discussions, perhaps you read a post from ijonathan (Aug. 17, 2007 1:06 AM), replying to Bob, Journalist. Jonathan, who I am not at all familiar with, posted a statistical treatise on Bobby Cox as a manager and backed it up with historical data without a single derogatory or vulgar word about the man. It was well done and tempered with balance and respect for Bob, J and Bobby Cox. Agree or disagree, kudos to Jonathan for that well written and smartly presented post. It’s worth a look.

Who should judge performance? Any and everyone should. Players and coaches are and should be judged on what they have achieved between the lines (barring illegal game betting or performance enhancing methods). There is a foolproof, unbiased way of measuring success without complex metrics or sophisticated research: it’s called WINS. Further, we look at pennants to measure higher success. Mr.

Cox has won more of them than just about any other manager in the history of the game, and has won more consecutive division titles that any team in the history of ALL sports. Regardless of what we think he should do this inning or today or how many rings we might have won “if only he would have done this or that”, he has amassed a record that anyone who knows anything about any sport would be extremely proud of. For the rear-view mirror crowd, it could be fairly argued how many pennants or World Series Championships the Braves could or should have won if Bobby were a different “game” manager, but there will never be any opinion or statistic that takes the wins and the pennants away from him.

Remember how Bobby Cox managed the first year of the new era of budget reduction with so many inexperienced young players in 2005? He was brilliant that year. Bobby and his team scrapped and overachieved with the cards they were dealt, against all odds and predictions and still won the division. He managed as well as anyone could have that year. For that year alone he deserves credit for an example of superb player development and wins. For his career as a manager, he deserves to be in the Hall of Fame. He will be there.

So, is Bobby Cox done? Yes, he’s done…very well. He’s done the best. Glad we’ve had him in Atlanta, glad we have him now and will greatly miss him when he’s done.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 19, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

carolina lady, journalist tried making biscuits from that same recipe but never could get them done. had to throw them out after 8 hours. cook ‘em on the stove, right?

ranger, jimmy smith and baby seal were in asheville on seal business and went to lake lure today. very beautiful but hot for the mountains!

By flange1

August 19, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

AFternoon all,

Great win for the Braves. Smoltz was great.

Guys and gals please don’t lose site of what a small win streak can do.

Remember everyone said the Cardinals were dead, had no chance, should be sellers, now they are very much in a close Central Division.

A short win streak will turn everything around.

What better place to start a win streak than Cincy?

By Lew

August 19, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

Paladin-Certainly not to disparage the SJA, but he bans himself at least once a week and has done so for at least the last year. He’ll return. Have no fear.

By Alex

August 19, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Lew

I don’t have a problem at all. I am glad the Braves won. However, is a 1-2-3 inning save too much to ask of your closer who is being paid over 5 mil. a year to do that?

Tell me you were feeling comfortable with the bases jacked, and the middle of the D’Backs lineup coming up. Wickman was fortunate to not have to face Conner Jackson or Eric Byrnes from the bench, both candidates to tie the game with 1 swift swing.

By Carolina Lady

August 19, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

jjs cooked Hockey Pucks if he cooked them on top of the stove. Eight hours???? sigh…..

:-))))

By Gene Shovel it

August 19, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

I want you to catch the new series beginning tonight on Inner-tube. This is reality TV at its’ best!

Savannah Guy and Braveheart are locked in the Tower of London. No holds or subjects are barred. The title? Tower of Babble. Don’t miss it!

By Carolina Lady

August 19, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

Savannah, Bravo! Well said, indeed!

Did you get the email about the China trip? If not, it’s still not working right.

By Wayne in Utah

August 19, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

WW Congratulations, my friend. A great choice also for your prize. You and your dad will love the work that Lew does for you.

Back this spring, I picked my favorite Brave of the 80’s as my award, Dale Murphy. To me, Dale and the other players of that era keep things going in the darkest of days. Jeter is certainly top drawer (I liked Lew’s idea of drawing Beltran with that puzzled look on his face!).

I think that most will agree. When a post like that comes from a person, it is not planned. It comes from the heart.

Great post!

(still drinking the kool-aid!)

By mr baseball

August 19, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

As I write this, the Pirates have scored 7 in the 7th against the Phillies to take the lead and the Padres are behind early against Houston. With a little luck, the Braves will be all of a half game out of the wild card at the end of the day, 1 1/2 back at worst.

For the moment, Braves fans need to forget about the Mets and keep their eyes on the Padres and Phillies, with the teams right below in the standings also worth a look now and then. Given the success of wild card teams in the post-season, it might be a novel situation for the Braves to find themselves in if both they and the Mets play well down the stretch.

This is the week for the Braves’ vaunted offense to make a little statement. The Reds are throwing 3 rookies, 2 of whom have barely any MLB experience and Arroyo, who hasn’t exactly been stellar this year. Hudson pitches the opener of the series and he pitches the 2nd game of the Cardinals series after Smoltz. Their pitching opposition will be Kip Wells and Joel Pineiro, who will never be confused with the Braves’ first 2 starters.

Wainwright goes against James in the 3rd game, but by that time, the Braves should already have enjoyed a successful week. If they haven’t, they should not be making post-season plans.

This team has been piddling along since the hot start, and it’s about time the Braves made a definitive demonstration that they are making a playoff push. Since the GM elected to put the team’s playoff marbles on the offensive side, this would be a nice week for Tex, Chipper, McCann & Francouer to pad their stats. It also might help if Cox would throw caution to the wind and actually start Diaz once during the week against a RH pitcher and let Andruw sit for a game. But since that might require a direct hit from a lightning bolt to get him to alter his lineup (not counting platoons and McCann’s infrequent day off), Diaz had best appreciate the game or so a week the Braves face a lefty. ‘Cause other than pinch hitting, that’s all the action he’s going to see, even if he’s only batting .125 or so higher than Andruw.

As for the alliterative, frequently cringe inducing trio of Chucky, Cormier & Carlyle, how about some good old-fashioned mediocrity this week. If the offense does its job, mediocrity should be enough to produce some wins, at least until Sunday when either Chucky needs to step it up or the hitters need to learn how to handle a 12-to-6 curveball.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

Smoltz said he finally was able to get things clicking today, some adjustments he’s made in his mechanics to “free up” his fastball and other pitches. Said the shoulder isn’t an issue at all anymore, than his lower back has bothered him but not the shoulder whatsoever in recent starts.

He wanted to pitch the ninth, but understood Bobby taking him out. And both he and Bobby said down the line, time will come when he’ll go nine and throw 135 pitches or whatever.

Just to let you guys know where he is in his health and whatnot. Those of you who suggested last week that he be DL’d, I’d say right now there’s a better chance of a dome being built over Turner Field next month than Smoltz going on the DL for anything less than an absolutely debilitating injury….

ALEX, it’s $6.5 mill for Wickman, not $5 mill, and a save’s a save (but today was four-run lead, so it wasn’t even a save situation). Dude has been far from perfect, but didn’t even give up one run of the four required to blow that lead. So chill. You’re just looking for things to complain about. Shocker.

Wickman is Wickman, and that’s the kind of closer he is and has always been — he puts runners on base. He’s not a 1-2-3 inning type of closer the way Smoltz was. Very few are, and Wickman certainly isn’t.

I’ve been one of his biggest critics at times, but lately, despite some hairy innings, the man’s been solid. And by the way, he’s given up one earned run at Turner Field all season.

Besides, what are the options? If Soriano’s on, he’s the man for the job. But lately …

I think Moylan would be a decent choice until Dotel or Soriano proves he could handle it, which I can’t really see Dotel doing in the short time he’ll have after he gets back from shoulder injury, assuming he even comes back strong. But I don’t think Cox wants to move Moylan from the role he’s done well in.

By Gene Shovel it

August 19, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

   *cooked Hockey Pucks*

SSShh! CL, I am sending that in to Southern Living. :-)

By Alex

August 19, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

flange1

I agree, the cards really turned their season around with a winning streak, and Brewers/Cubs not playing well right now and both teams enduring key injuries…Ben Sheets/Alfonzo Soriano.

However, the reason why the Braves can’t go on a winning streak of 4 games or more has been inconsistant pitching from the back of the rotation spots. You need your back of the rotation guys to at least keep you in the game, and give you a chance to win. I mean if Lance and Buddy can just give up around 4 runs per start, you have to like the Braves chances with the offense scoring 4 or more to counter that and win games.

It’s all about the starting pitching right now. I hope, Chuck “Long Ball” James, “who’s your buddy” Carlile and Lance “I think I can keep my ERA under 10” Cormier find a way to help the Braves put such a winning streak on the upcoming road trip!

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

Brent A, I’m with you on being befuddled by the math-challenged folks here who can’t quite figure out that a 1-1/2 game lead is really insignificant compared with a 5-1/2 game lead.

Seriously, I never considered myself a math whiz, but it makes me feel relatively gifted in that area to read over some of these posts of the “We’re Doomed, Gulliver” contingent (small group, but loud and proud) who try to convince us that a 1-1/2-game deficit is somehow imposing.

It’s … just … not. Sorry. It’s just hard for most reasonable fans with any comprehension of baseball history to get too worked up and feel it’s hopeless when looking at a 1-1/2 game deficit with 38 games to play. Or should be.

But if you try hard enough, you folks might convince a few people here to join the crew on the S.S. Doom & Gloom.

By Salty

August 19, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

Stats Lie Your belief the Braves need a 31-8 to win the East, perhaps…but why the gloom over the WC possibilities? There’s only two teams in front…by perhaps only 1/2 game…and the Braves have six left (I believe) with the Phils. A tie with the Padres falls in the Braves favor…again, I believe. Seems like a ‘far from done’ proposition.

By Tonight on TBS

August 19, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

First time on television…

Snakes on a Plane (2006)

Chuck James (Samuel L. Jackson) gets on a plane at Hartsfield-Jackson airport that he believes is bound for Cincinnati. Problem is, he has mistakenly boarded the charter bearing 25 deadly Diamondbacks to Arizona. Can Chuck survive the flight before the vicious and venomous serpents bite him again? And again. (Horror.)

By Dwight Fry

August 19, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

A 1 and 1/2 game lead over the Braves would be insignificant only if the Braves showed some ability to put modest winning streaks together against decent teams.

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

Let me just be cirus for a moment. I really want to congratulate Braveheart. When I came on the blog he was a real wise acre. Hell, I “modeled” myself after him. But, lately—while still having fun—he has “cleaned up his act” and become one of *the voices on here. Is there hope for me, then? No! Because he knows his baseball and when the “fun” is over, he can “talk the talk”. I can’t. So, I will continue as a wurlitzer-wannabee while he gives his Dad the real thing.

Well done, nephew, well done!

By KC

August 19, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this

Alex: Yup. We will know in 2 weeks. If the Braves go 5-5 on this road trip… their division chances will start looking bleak to me.

But if they go 8-2 or even just 7-3, as they should… they will likely pick up at least a game or two in the east heading into the Mets Series. That would also most likely be good enough to pull into a tie, if not the lead, in the Wild Card race.

DOB… is there talk about a dome at Turner Field?! That would be great! I often stay home because it’s too hot, but if there were a dome, I would attend more day games. That’s excellent news. Please keep us posted! =)

It’s great to hear Smoltz’s shoulder is in good shape. That’s excellent, excellent news.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this

No, a 1-1/2-game lead over any team, by any team, is relatively insignificant when there’s 38 games to play. If the Braves were 1-1/2 games ahead, it’d still be an insignificant lead. Any lead that can be erased in two days, by one team losing two and the other winning two, is insignificant in my book.

By Mark

August 19, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

DOB, please don’t start that taking up for Wickman crap. A save is not a save. It’s ok if we as Atlanta fans would want our closer to have 1-2-3 inning every once and awhile. He has cost us some big wins this year. I know you are going to start throwing stats at me, but he isn’t reliable.

DOB, people on this blog aren’t doom and gloom. We just call it like it is. As long as we have a backsorry back end of a rotation and a shaky bullpen it might be doom and gloom. This 3-3 crap isn’t going to cut it. It’s just not.

By TNRON

August 19, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

Your right DOB.I sort of vented last night after that disaster,not that anyone noticed.But it is time to fish or cut bait.Tomorrow nights game is big for momentum’s sake.I still believe the Mutts have a losing streak in them,and Alou is due to get a twinge or something to end up on the DL.But if we are to make a run at them it starts now.

By Savannah Guy

August 19, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this

Braveheart I suppose now you are having a cigar, feet propped up, revelling in the glow of a beautiful Sunday afternoon, Wurlitzer won, Smoltz record set, Braves game won and another great baseball game watched regardless of the standings, eh?

After reading your last post, we may want to consider one more little rule, specifically for the optimists that are also human and happen to be Braves fans:

When watching games while drinking Kool-Aid, best have an unbreakable pitcher for those, uh…inevitable lapses. How’s that?

But seriously, proud of ya Cuz for the things you said about your dad. I can relate…my dad was my life hero and little league baseball coach. You did good to think of him for the Wurlitzer. Nice…

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

Must the Braves play better to win the wild card? Yes. Have they shown they can, and given reason enough to believe they will? Yes, and sort of yes.

Must they play quite a bit better to win the division? Yes. Have they shown they can? Not really.

They only have a chance — not a great chance, but a decent one — to win the division because the Mets are so injury-riddled and, like the Braves, seemingly incapable of reeling off a long winning streak.

Mets just aren’t the dominant team we thought they’d be, especially hitting. And the Braves don’t pitch like we thought they would.

But the wild card? Of all those teams, Braves have by far the best lineup and a good enough pitching staff (relatively speaking, given the strength of their lineup and mediocrity of most wild-card opponents).

That’s as long as the Braves have no more major injuries to their pitching staff, of course. I just think they should and will be better than all those other teams down the stretch (and I’m not including Arizona, which should win the West).

By mets fan in atlanta

August 19, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

DOB, you are losing credibility daily. Now you are saying it is okay for Wickman to load the bases every time out, as long as he gets the save? Newsflash to some of you today, he didn’t qualify for a save today. He was in the position to blow the game for Smoltz and the Braves, but because of a 4-run lead when he started the inning with no one on base, he was ineligible to receive a save.

Someone stated Wickman allowed the baserunners so he could get a save. Really, learn the rules so you don’t sound ignorant. And DOB played right along.

Last week, when Wagner loaded the bases with no outs but somehow escaped, do you think met fans said, “Great job Billy, way to nail it down?” haha of course not. We knew something was up, and that he should thank his lucky stars that the braves couldn’t score. BTW, his next time out, he wasn’t as lucky and blew his first save in his last 20 chances. There was definite foreshadowing in the Braves game, not just “Oh, look, he got a save.” He has settled down now, but last week was a little shaky.

Wickman has been shaky for months, but keep those Braves-colored glasses on.

By Mark

August 19, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

KC, not so fast. This team has proven that they can’t beat the teams that they are suppose to. Say what you want, but we were swept by the Reds earlier this season. We struggle against the Marlins and St. Louis has found hope in a tough season. So please spare me the 7-3, 8-2 babble.

KC we don’t need a dome. Hell, the Falcons don’t need a dome.

By Salty

August 19, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

The 3-3 crap keeps cutting it well enough to only be 1.5 games out. That’s calling it like it is, too! Keep the faith!

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this

people on this blog aren’t doom and gloom. We just call it like it is.

“Mark” As I learned the hard way, when you start “speaking for others” on this blog you are on a slippery-slide-to-Satandom. Just a word of advice.

By Chop Chop

August 19, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this

The all-negative and all-positive posts on this blog remind me of the traditional liberal left vs. arch-conservative right-wing political debates. I think most people on this blog (and in this country) are somewhere in the middle and have enough sense not to buy into either side. Okay, I HOPE most people have that sense.

I’m a political independent who leans more to the liberal side, but my stance as a Braves fan can be expressed simply: I’m Southwest Georgian, born and bred, but when it comes to this team, I’m a Missouri kind of guy.

Show me.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

Hey Mark, I’ll say what I want. You call it like you see it. Good. So do I. Wickman’s been terrible on the road this year, and has one blown save and a 0.42 ERA (before today, when it went down a bit more) at home. That’s not how I see it; that’s the way it is.

Terrible on the road, and close to perfect, in terms of saves and ERA, at home. If even one of those runs had scored, I can see getting a little worked up today. But not one did. And they had a four-run lead. Wasn’t even a save situation. If you’re going to stress about that, cool. But there’s a lot more things to worry about than loading the bases with a four-run lead and not allowing any of them to score.

Good thing Todd Jones isn’t your closer.

This isn’t Dan Kolb we’re talking about, folks. Wickman isn’t the best, by a long shot. But today he got a save without giving up a run. They won by four. You’ll have to wait at least another day to vent and moan about how they stink and how it’s over.

By Salty

August 19, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

Dwight Fry Define modest…better yet, define decent. The standard ain’t exactly high in the NL this year! :-)

This is a ‘perseverance race’ this year…with a sprint to the finish.

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 5:50 PM | Link to this

The 1995 Angels were 66-41 on August 20th, twelve games ahead of the 53-52 Yankees and thirteen games ahead of the 53-53 Mariners. What happened?

The Angels went 12-26 down the stretch while the Yankees went 26-13 and the Mariners 26-13 with the Mariners beating out the Angels in the final game for the division and the Yankees beating out the Angels for the wild card.

The Yankees were actually 54-59 at the start of the day on August 29th and the Angels were 67-47, twelve and a half games ahead of the Yanks.

Thus, one a half games or five and a half games is far from hopeless.

And before you say the Yankees were so great or anything, remember they had Black Jack & Cone who were not even as good that year as Smoltz and Hudson, a rookie named Pettite whose stats were not as good as Chuck James this year, Scott Kamienicki who was not any better than Buddy Carlyle, and Sterling Hitchcock who was not the greatest pitcher but he was the one who clinched the wild card for them.

And guess who was their best reliever besides Wetteland? Bob Wickman!

Outside of Randy Johnson, the Mariners pitching rotation was a complete joke.

So, all is not hopeless at all. Let it play itself out.

By Ron

August 19, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this

brent a. Good post about that Wildcard over the East!!! I have been saying lets try to win the Wildcard for 2 Months, but yet MOST on here keep posting about the Mets winning OR losing!!! Who cares about the Mets!!! Im MORE concerned over what the Phillies AND Padres do WAY more than the Damn Mets!!! We are NOT going to catch them!!! It seems like every other team loses to the Mets Except US, so what IF OWN the Mets, too bad no other team can seem to take 2 out of 3 against them!!! The East is a lost cause!!! We have a GREAT chance to win the Wildcard!!! Its a shame though, because even IF we win the Wildcard, Arizona will face us in the First round!!! But I would at least like to get their because anything can happen I suppose!!! I tell you guys what won’t be funny, Is if we beat Arizona in the First round and end up losing to the Mets in the LCS!!! I dont even want to think about that possibility!!!

I saw Larry the Cable Guy Health Inspector movie the other night, and he said hows that taste!!! Does that phrase hows that taste sound familiar to anybody? It sounds JUST like Mets Drool!!! He posts hows that taste at the END of his posts!!! Wow Larry the Cable Guy’s LONG lost brother!!! Mets Drool must be a site to see!!! LOL!!!

Lew I better get a Werlitzer for that paragraph!!! LOL!!!

By Bob, Journalist

August 19, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

William Wallace, it wouldn’t take Lew that long to read the posts if he’d use an online dictionary like me instead of relying his old Webster’s.

“It’s in the eye of the beholder. My postings are crap to some” … Stats Lie is spot right on about that.

Esteem fellow of the Savannah, It’s called the “young bachelor” award … I’ve yet to meet a father with kids who had any problem cheering with someone who loses, especially if it’s one of his kids.

However, I don’t really think Colin feels that way … if his highschool has sports, I’ll bet he cheers for them, win or lose … and enjoys so doing! I could be wrong … but it’s usually the adults who have this obsession with winning without due regard for sport.

Nobody likes to lose but, methinks losing is the more valuable of the experiences. From my perspective, Colin’s wasn’t award worthy but any and all sincere posts from Braves’ fans are Blog worthy.

My post was meant as humorous sarcasm directed at both the attitude and Colin’s abuse of contractions.

Had I posted comments like Colin’s Mama would have switched me good for the attitude, sued the Board of Education, and made me go back to the fourth grade for the third time so as to better learn the proper use of contractions.

However, it’s never my intent to discourage young fans … he seems like a good, sincere young man … we need more! I was simply trying to get Colin to rethink his position and/or reconsider the way he expressed it.

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

Wayne, thanks! I will not try not to let it get to my head like you did. ;o>

By Mark

August 19, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

Salty, please spare me this keep the faith garbage. I am a Braves fan, but unlike you, I see things as they are. Keep the Faith huh? So you want me to keep faith in Chuck James, Buddy Carlyle and Cormier. Or better yet, keep faith in Soriano Wickman, and Yates. Keep faith that we can pound our way to the playoffs with offense. Maybe, if Andruw wasn’t shown misplaced loyalty by Bobby. Maybe Salty, I can keep faith in Andruw. I think not. Any man that makes a statement ” I am a pull hitter and that’s it” is not open to learning. He thinks he knows everything. Come on DOB, I know you are going to defend Bobby and Andruw.

By Alex

August 19, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

DOB

I think you mistake pointing out the facts with complaining? Don’t peg me as one of the negavite fans, I am grounded well in the middle. I am glad Wickman got the game closed, but the way he goes about his business is dangerous, to say the least.

If he is not a 1-2-3 closer, fine, but he is flirting with disaster a lot more than he should. There are other options in the pen for next year and I am glad the Braves will part ways with Wickman after this season. I think a closer should be somehow able to dominate and strike people out. If you look back at the one WS title the Braves won in 95, Wholers was that guy then, dominating with mid 90’s heat and was just effectively wild to get oppositing hitters to fear him. I don’t think opposing batters fear Wickman at all. I think when he gives up hits, walks people, loads the bases, he gives them even more confidence.

OK, I have a question. Will we see Edgar back in the lineup against Cincy tomorrow or tuesday, they are throwing lefties at us both starts, and it would be a good time for Edgar to come back if he is healthy. What is the latest on Edgar, DOB? You know that disagreements is what makes this blog great, right? If everyone agreed it would be quite boring to post here. At the end of the day, we are all passionate Braves fans that want the Braves to succeed and get into the playoffs.

By Mark

August 19, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

DOB, first of all he didn’t get a save today. You can say what you want, but please tell the truth. Somebody(Mets fan in Atlanta) on this blog has already pointed this out to you. Since you are talking Wildcard so much, have you realized that as wildcard team the Braves will likely have to win some games on the ROAD which means Wickman will be our closer. Now do you want him?

By Overlord

August 19, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this

I think what is frustrating for the braves is not the fack that they are 5.5 GB the mets. The frustration to players and to fans i think is the fact that the have been dancing around from 5.5 to 2.5 from the mets for about 3 months maybe 3.5 im not sure. 5.5 GB for a team with such a powerful lineup and smoltz and hudson in it is not anywhere near imposible task, this team could win easily 12 or 13 of 16 games in a period of time and tie the mets in the standings, but what they have been doing is underachieve.

I have been gone for a week trying to take a deep breath, i come back and i see the same thing, and more important, AJ still in the lineup doing nothing to help the team NOTHING!!!!!!!!!!!

There is no pitching staff in the NL that can shut this team doing in a playoff series, unless they go into one of their slumps.

We need renteria back, badly.

I want the braves to face the Dbacks and the mets in the playoffs, and then the redsox……… we take care of those 3 teams and then i can retire from baseball with bobby cox.

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this

chop Chop To continue with your “political” theme: What we say on this blog is not worth a bucket of warm spit(How a wag-of-yesteryear described a Vice-President)in the overall scheme of things. It doesn’t influence JS or BC one iota. At Vegas,(needed a transition here) the best bet is to lay the odds behind the line at the crap table. But, people who are just there for fun, don’t. They would rather be “with” the people “in front”. See the parallel I’m trying to make? Be negative if you wish, but it is more “fun” to be with the people “in front”, the Kool-Aid drinkers.

Now, I’ve got to quit before this gets to be SG or BH in length. :-)

By KC

August 19, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this

Mark: Say what you want about the damn Reds series people keep bringing up.

Here are the FACTS:

1 - We started two starting pitchers in that series that are no longer with the team.

2 - We did not have Tex in the lineup.

3 - We did not have a lefty in the pen, a weakness that was really exposed against Griffey in one of those games.

4 - Harang pitched a great game against us, but he won’t be pitching in this series.

When you consider not only Tex and Mahay, but also 2 starters that went in that series that are no longer here… this is a different team. So dude please, STFU about that series. It has absolutely no bearing on the one ahead of us.

As for THIS Braves team, the team we have now…

Whether the Braves go 6-4 or 9-1 over the next 10 will depend on our starters after Hudson and Smoltz, and our 8th/9th inning guys.

Personally, given the pitching matchups… I expect 7-3 or 8-2. I’m not confident enough in James or Carlyle right now to call that a near-certainty, but I’m confident enough overall to put some money on a 7-3 or 8-2 stretch over the next 10.

If you’re interested in a friendly wager, email me at embassypro@hotmail.com. I’m serious.

By Colin

August 19, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

Smoltz pitched a gem..A GEM…thats the Smoltz we all know 12 k’s on top of breaking the record…wow He is what less than 100 from 3000…thats amazing…considering he was a closer..Which i wouldnt mind if he did both….TEX really proved today that he is learning the NL pitching…Hopefully we win the next 4 because well its the REDLEGS….Instead of a Heisman Campaign we need a Cy Young Campaign for Huddy because he sures deserves it, but WEBB is been amazing to….As we saw the other night….WOW i was looking at the Matchups the St.Louis series sets up Smoltz and Huddy 1-2..thats nice…if Chuck,Buddy, Lance win in Cincy…

By Mr. Fly, Sleuth Reporter

August 19, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

Speaking for myself, Wicky did just fine. He is working through a patch but he will hold the fort. He had those snakes right where he wanted them. Wicky is my friend also. And now we celebrate together while you negative nellies parse stats, pick apart his performance and the Braves season. Me…I choose cheeseburgers over that stuff. Even 8 hour biscuits are better than sour apples.

Now DOB is tangling with a little pupster on the blog, who’s mark is worse that his byte. Little puppy is rude. Needless needles. Me no like.

The Fly Abides

By Ron

August 19, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this

Lets put it this way people, IF we make the Playoffs Wickman will LOSE it for us!!! I dont trust him with a 1 run lead in the Bottom of the 9th in a game 5 of the LDS or a game 7 in the LCS or World Series!!! Plain and simple he will LOSE it for us!!! Listen I like Wickman, but Moylan IS better!!! Would I trust Moylan in the same situation as I listed above, not really, but WAY more than Wickman!!! The teams that have a chance to make the playoffs I will name their Closers!!! Phillies- Tom Gordon- I trust him in the playoffs!!! Mets- Billy Wagner- I trust him in the playoffs!!! Padres- Trevor Hoffman- I trust him in the playoffs!!! Arizona- Valverde- I trust him in the playoffs!!! Brewers- Cordero- I trust him in the playoffs!!! Mariners- Putz- I trust him in the Playoffs!!! Angel- I cant think of his name right off hand, maybe Rodrigues- I trust him in the playoffs!!! Yankees- Rivera- I trust him in the playoffs!!! Boston- I cant think of his name right off hand either, he is damn good- but anyway I trust him in the playoffs!!!

Does the list I just named mean that they won’t blow playoff games? NO!!! Because most of them HAVE blown a game in the playoffs!!! But I trust them WAY more than OUR Closer, the Cubs Closer, the Tigers Closer, and the Indians Closer!!! We will see what happens though!!! I put MY money on the Good Closers!!!

By Colin

August 19, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this

WOW THE PIRATES ARE AHEAD…last i saw Phillies were wining 4-0…GO BUCOS

By Del

August 19, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

I wonder who the Braves miss most when they are out of the lineup: Chipper or Renreria? The stats probably say Chipper …. but I wonder?

By Mark

August 19, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this

Overlord you absolutely right. Why is Andruw in the lineup. The way we have showed him loyalty this season, maybe he should tell his agent Boras that he wants to give the Braves another Hometown discount. Andruw was able to bat cleanup despite hitting .199. He really hasn’t been booed like he would in other cities.

You are also right about needing Edgar, because I like Kelly but would prefer he batted lower in the order because we need somebody like that batting behind “Rally Killer Andruw”. He is patient hitter that always has plan at the plate, unlike Andruw who just swings at anything. Don’t get me wrong Escobar has done a great job, but we need Edgar experience in a penant race.

By Lew

August 19, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

So what? Y’all want a pulse rate of 50 all the time? Tell me you weren’t more excited and didn’t pump your fists harder after that double play got them out of the inning than you would have if he had gotten three pop ups to Yunie. He didn’t give up any runs. Period. As far as losing the playoffs for us, the guy has converted 20 of 26 save opportunities. If nothing else, the percentages say he’ll be successful three quarters of the time. That’s a higher percentage than your best hitter knocking in the winning run in any situation you might mention. Besides-That’s who we’ve got and that’s who’s going to be used in those situations. Count your damn blessings. You could have Reitsma or Kolb again. Look where they got us.

By Mark

August 19, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this

KC, you can cuss all you want. I am not dumb enough to bet you on the Braves roadtrip. It’s not that serious son. We may not be facing Harang and Tex may not have been in the lineup but what does that mean absolutely nothing.

We had a different team last time we faced the Diamondbacks and lost 2 out of 3. The Team NOW, still lost 2 of 3. I know you follow the Braves closely, so I know you would agree that this team has the same problems they did before the Texeira trade.

Since you are tired of talking about the Reds series, let’s talk about the St. Louis series. We split with them last time right and that was when they had very little hope. Now they are in pennant race again and it’s not going to be easy.

KC face it this team is inconsistent and mediocre at best. It’s ok to be positive, but let’s not be delusional.

By Salty

August 19, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

Mark I simply stated the obvious, just as you did…nothing more. Get off your high horse and accept that mine…and others perspective is not much different than yours…save you choose to whine, and we hold out hope that as long as the Braves are close, they have a chance. Will they win, I hope so, but you know what, it won’t change my life one whit. I simply enjoy the team for what it is, and just hope they apply a solid effort, which by all appearances, they’re doing the best with what they have.

By Overlord

August 19, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this

Mark thing is that its is completly unforgivable for such a great lineup not to make the playoffs because of AJ and the lack of a 5th starter.

I still think they can make a great run like 2x5 winning streaks some 10 out of 11 or 12 games and put even more pressure but they wont doing without edgar in the lineup and AJ playing every game.

By Lew

August 19, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

This whole situation with Andruw is something else, too. He’s terrible, but let’s take him back if he gives us a home town discount. Reminds me of someone arguing at an autograph show. They were wanting to purchase an autograph, but weren’t convinced of it’s authenticity. Then the potential customer made a stupid move-He asked the seller to lower his price. The rub was, if it wasn’t authentic, then why would you pay anything for it? Why is Andruw in the lineup despite his terrible season? Just look to last night. You just never know when he might hit a ball 400+ feet and we don’t have anyone else who plays that position that might do it on any given at bat. That’s why he’s in the lineup. If you think Willie Harris is going to replace Andruw’s potential in any way shape or form, you really don’t have a clue. Yes, Andruw’s season has been a monumental disappointment, but let’s try to retain a little reality.

By Mr. Fly, Sleuth Reporter

August 19, 2007 6:46 PM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist “young bachelor” award…Yes. Agreed. As it should be. Which is why we are oh so subtle and gentle with our “ribbing” at times and hopefully instructional with our comments.

My nephew who, at his young age is an example of the “text” generation, with his abbreviations and acronyms along with poor grammar, punctuation and spelling. It carries over to his other writing unfortunately. Admittedly, I correct him often and try to teach him the value of the well written word (of which I am still a student and always will be).

On instructions to the young…on the coast we try to “take a kid fishing” to introduce them to the water, the sport and to the beauty of nature in good, healthy and positive ways. Hopefully on those days we catch fish too. If not, it’s still a good day. Kind of like baseball.

And you esteemed sir, are a good hearted and wise man to share your perspective on it.

By Mark

August 19, 2007 6:48 PM | Link to this

Well Lew, if we don’t make the playoffs I will have to say that Kolb and Reitsma got us further than Wickman. Now don’t get me wrong Reitsma and Kolb suck and really had nothing to do with the success they we had, but Wickman is scary. I can’t count my blessing with Wickman because he makes me lose my spirituality sometimes.

By Savannah Guy

August 19, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist I feel the same way as Mr. Fly. In fact, I couldn’t have said it better, uh…myself.

By bill

August 19, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

Stats are not worth a d-m this time of year. Throw them all out. These clowns need to start playing better and I know they can. They are going no where splitting series. Need a 6 games win streak It won’t be two weeks to see if they get in playoff’s. This coming week is a must.

By Carolina Lady

August 19, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

Mark, I wasn’t going to respond to your comments - - - - - but this “if we don’t make the playoffs I will have to say that Kolb and Reitsma got us further than Wickman” has depleted whatever little credibility you had in your short tenure on the blog. Oh, mercy.

By Lew

August 19, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this

Mark-Losing Your Religion (thinly veiled musical reference)? Dude, neither Kolb nor Reitsma had a conversion percentage anywhere near three quarters. Look at how much in disarray the bullpen was when Wicky arrived last year and look at it since his arrival. He has converted 40 of 47 saves since joining the Braves, with a cumulative ERA of about three. Yes, he’s had some rough outings, but he always has put runners on (throughout his career) and still converted a huge percentage of his opportunities. Like I said, he makes your blood pressure rise, but what the hell, half of us are on medication for BP anyway. He’s still the best closer we’ve had besides Smoltz.

By KC

August 19, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this

Mark: Again, if you have such strength in your conviction that the Braves are as you say “a mediocre team at best”… then I’ll be happy to set a benchmark for the remainder of the season, and put some money on that. It’s up to you.

I realize you probably pride yourself on being a pragmatist, but you’re just flat wrong. This team as it is now constituted is far better than mediocre. And I think any scout, coach, or player in the game would tell you the same thing.

This team has a good bullpen. Not great, sadly… since Gonzo went down. But it’s good. And it’ll get better in September when Paronto (who was performing very well before being sent down to make room for Dotel), Royce Ring, Ascanio, and Devine get here. If Dotel can get healthy, that’s icing on the cake.

The Braves have the best lineup in the league, and as good a 1-2 punch as their is in baseball atop the rotation.

Yes, they are flawed, but so is everyone else in the league. If they can get enough… nothing SUPER, just enough out of their rotation after Smoltz and Hudson… this team has a great shot at 90 wins this year. And that would most likely be enough for at least the wild card.

Hey, I could be wrong… but I’m not.

By Chop Chop

August 19, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this

Paladin,

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to watch a game with any of your fellow denizens? If I’m at home watching a game, I’m comfortable with Smoltz or Hudson on the mound. Otherwise, I usually end up laughing at our misfortune in a game and not expecting much. That comes from years of postseason…uh…angst. Because I can laugh at the Braves, I have conquered Kool-Aid.

You know what’s funny, though? I can’t laugh at the Dawgs. I can’t laugh when Florida destroys us. I’m getting mad just thinking about it…ugh.

As Braveheart alluded to today, the best way to look at a season is to find things within the game that keep our interest even if we don’t think the team has a chance. I’ll tell my own little story here:

I didn’t truly get interested in baseball until I was 8 or 9. I’d watched the Braves for several years before, but I didn’t really get into the game. However, when I was 10, I started collecting baseball cards. As most of us know, the Braves were terrible in the late ’80s, but you know what kept me interested? Those baseball cards. There was a grocery store not far from where I grew up that literally had thousands of Topps and Fleer baseball card packs sitting in a bin for months. They were dirt-cheap, so I’d go up there as often as I could with my infrequent allowance and buy a few packs. I even chewed that nasty gum (I thought it was great at the time) that sometimes had the ink from the stats on it. Mmmm…statistics.

(Maybe Shaun ate those sticks of gum?)

I usually couldn’t wait until I got home to open those packs up. My brother and sister also had a few packs, so I’d try to make shrewd trades for great players (“I’ll trade you this Eric Davis All-Star for your Steve Avery.” Yeah, I thought he’d be a Hall of Famer…). I remember being in the fifth grade and trading a couple of Micro Machines to a guy for a Fleer David Justice rookie card. Damn thing got bent in half on the way home from school, but I still felt like I’d robbed the b*******.

By the summer of 1990, I had hundreds of cards and started listening to the late-night Braves’ West Coast games on the radio. I would read the stats while listening to the games and think, “Wow! Darrell Evans sure did play a long time.” I would wonder what the hell happened to Ron Gant back in ‘89 (.177 average after being 4th in ROY voting in ‘88) to make him so terribly bad. He sure was good in that 1990 season. I’ll never forget the excitement in 1991 when the Braves added Pendleton, Nixon, Belliard and Bream. We were finally going to make .500! Worked out a little better than that, huh?

It’s crazy for a young guy like myself to look back and see so many players I remember as young players retiring. It makes me feel old, but it also makes me remember what I love about the game. The continuity of it. The imperfections. The fluke seasons. The possibility of redemption just around the corner for any team. The Braves have that possibility this season. If redemption doesn’t come, I’ll have the little things about the game to keep me contented. However, if redemption sweeps in and gives us a thrill, I will be smiling as wide as any Braves fan. It’s nice to be rewarded.

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this

Uncle Paladin My trusty wingman and former partner in crime, thanks for the kind words, you ole huckleberry. You know alot more about baseball than you let on. You have the kind of brevity and humor that only comes with wit and intelligence. As for the length of my posts, you painfully know better than anyone how much longer my emails are as compared to my posts. Unfortunately, for Lew, he demanded an email, and is now learning the lesson you have already learned about the length of my emails. Grinch had to drink a case of beer to get through the last treatise sent to the two of you about the Falcons and Dawgs.

Cuz Thanks for your kind words as well. Yes, we need a Rubbermaid pitcher for any Kool Aid left around me. The power of the blog is that you and Paladin, the two people I have had my two ugliest fights with on here, are now amongst my best friends on here.

Scribe I’m kinda scared to bring the portrait to the instructional league. Every time I use one word too many, Scoots is going to stand over me while he has me doing push ups with the portrait in my face, saying do you think you deserve this, wannabe? Do you? I don’t think you do. Not with the verbosity you’re showing down here. I’m gonna tear this thing up. Is that what you want? Then repeat after me: Brevity is the soul of wit! Brevity is the soul of wit! Got it, wannabe scribe?!?!?!

Long Live The Fly!

By Mark

August 19, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this

Salty, “Get of my high horse”. Please! I am getting sick of every time someone gives their opinion on another blogger’s post that people have a problem with it. It wouldn’t change my life either Salty. It’s just baseball. You weren’t stating the obvious. You said 3-3 has cut it enough to be 1.5 games out. Yeah Right!

.500 baseball will not cut it, if we expect to make the playoffs. This team isn’t doing the best that it could be because Andruw is still in the lineup, which he shouldn’t. This is not the best that they could be because of a manager’s misplaced loyalty.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 19, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

O’Brien , my friend , you must be drinking your own kool-aid. The rotation has become Hudson , Smoltz and hope for ten runs from the offense. The Braves ninth inning today is a continuing reminder of the adventure that the bullpen has become. After experiencing the latest case of heartburn from Wickman today it’s not a surprise that the Yankee’s said thanks but no thanks when the Braves tried to pry Kyle Farsworth away from them for Wickman. St.Louis was an anomaly last season. But , we all know Tony LaRussa is a genius , no other manager could have pulled that off. It’s funny to hear you talking wild card when you predicted the Braves to win this division. Good job of backing up , keep up the great work. O yea , great job by Smoltz today , the man is simply amazing. Hudson will win tomorrow , after that , cross your fingers and pray. On second thought , prayer won’t help , God is a Cubs fan.

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

BobJ, there is not a post of yours where I do not have to reference an online dictionary, Wikipedia, imdb.com, baseball-reference.com, and google at least 5 or 6 times. The fun is in the learning! And there is not a time where I don’t have to read a post of yours and jimmy’s a second and third time to peel away the layers to see what is being said that was not apparent on first read.

By Mark

August 19, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady I also said that they sucked and really had nothing to do with the success as well. Please read the complete post before you comment. Thank You.

I have been on this blog for a while as in several years. To be clear for you Carolina Lady not this blog per say but the blog in general. So please.

By David-ATL14

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

Nice to see the steady procession of dim witted simpletons flocking to the blog led by such illustrous losers as “Stats Lie” and Marky mark.

Good job fellas!

By Steve

August 19, 2007 7:11 PM | Link to this

As a fan of real pennant races, I really do not like what the wild card has done to baseball. As someone pointed out, Braves fans should root for the Mets when they play the Padres because the Braves best chance to make post season play is to win the wild card race and not the divison race.

That illustrates perfectly the perverse set of incentives that the wild card brings into play. What’s the point of even having divisions if it makes more sense to root for the team that’s in first place in the division your team is in, than it is to root for their opponent?

It often relegates the regular season to something not all that much different than a crap-shoot.

By ijonathan

August 19, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

DOB As several have pointed out, Wickman DIDN’T get a save today (baseball rules: need to enter a win with a 3 run-lead or less, with the tyihg run in the on-deck circle, or pitch 3 quality innings to finish the game). Just a minor point, but since you kept stressing “a save is a save” in a couple of your posts, it deserved a mention.

By Lew

August 19, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

Coach-God is a Cub’s fan? Dude, surely your not serious. When did this conversion occur?

By wiki

August 19, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

Going in to this past weekend, it was easy to see that it would have been very difficult to gain ground when the Mets and Phillies had the Nats and Bucs respectively.

Next two weeks will tell the tale…..the Braves will be facing some mediocre pitching at best. The Phillies & Mets have to deal with the Dodgers and Padres this week. Mets will face Young, Peavy, and Lowe. Then the Phillies and Mets play a 4 game series. Time to gain ground before the Mets & Phils come in the following week.

Now or never…

By KC

August 19, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this

Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion):

Coach, I am by no means taken with this rotation after Smoltz and Huddy, but I will say the following.

Chuck James has pitched very well in stretches. That’s why, prior to his last couple starts, he had an ERA of about 3.70 (pretty darn good). However James is maddeningly inconsistent.

Carlyle right now is looking a bit inconsistent as well. But “inconsistent” means “up and down”. So if they’re down right now…

James WILL pitch better than he has. Sure, even when he’s going well, he’s just a 6 inning pitcher at best. But most nights out, James will give you 5-6 innings of 2-3 run baseball. And with this offense, and a bullpen that will be much deeper in a less than 2 weeks… that usually be plenty.

Admittadly, I don’t know if Carlyle’s just in a slump, or if the league’s figured him out and the clock’s struck midnight for him. But again, I feel ok about James.

And even if James and Carlyle don’t improve… let’s give Cormier a chance before we declare every non-Smoltz/Hudson start a “slugfest”. Cormier looked pretty damned good to me his last time out.

By Mark

August 19, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

KC, I understand you are a glass half-full kind of guy. As for me, I am a realist. Come on KC, this team isn’t going anywhere. I remember when I tried to explain that to you last year.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this

Jonathan, I’m well aware that Wickman didn’t get a save today. I’m writing blog entries between my actual work writing a game story and notebook and scouting box on the Cincy series. I wrote “a save is a save” in reference to Wickman’s season-long tendency to put runners on base, much as Todd Jones does, but in the end a save converted is a save, regardless of how clean.

When you see me make a mistake and write in my game story that a save was converted when it wasn’t, I’ll appreciate and make note of your correction. But when you take a line written while I’m merely flipping back and forth to the blog on a smaller screen while writing my stories for the paper, while I’m trying to provide some updated thoughts/opinion/info on the game, and you seize that gleefully and try to play ‘gotcha’ with me, it really doesn’t help advance any debate or serve any purpose.

By KC

August 19, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

Coach and others…

Allow me to also point out that the Mets were fairly impressive last year with a squad pretty similar to the Braves right now.

They had 2 good starters, Pedro and Glavine, and their rotation was mediocre beyond that. BUT they have a good bullpen and a great offense.

This Braves team has a little better 1-2 punch, and a slightly better offense, while last year’s Mets had a little better bullpen…

But 2 very similar teams, as I see it. The Braves definitely have the team they need to play .600 ball from here on out.

By Tomahawkin' Again

August 19, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

38 games left. 38 games to make up 2 games in the loss column. 1991, Braves went 26-12 to catch LA. 1993, Braves went 29-9 (wow) to catch SF. 1999, Braves went 28-10 to blow by the Muts. 2004, Braves went 25-13 to complete being buried in late June. Braves Nation, it can be done. Our Braves have done it in the past. Don’t stop believin’, Hold onto that feelin’ I BELIEVE

By Mark

August 19, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

David-ATL14, don’t you think that insulting people is simpleton like characteristic. Not to suggest that you are.

There is nothing wrong with different opinions.

By Efrim

August 19, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

Just got back from Rhode Island and I didn’t keep up with the Braves through the whole Arizona series. Few things I wanted to touch on.

The Saturday game is the tough one to stomach. Buddy Carlyle and Chuck James have to pitch better, or we just won’t make the playoffs. It is really that simple. Smoltz pitched a big game today. Must win, although some here think they don’t exist. I’m sorry if any of you feel that way, but maybe you believe me now. Every game Smoltz and Hudson pitch have to be “must wins” if we are to sustain long winning streaks.

As KC touched on, with 38 games to play, the next 10 are really important. We blew another week away by going 3-3. We really can’t afford to go 3-4 against the Reds and Cards this week. We just can’t. We are finished if we do that.

As far as the Mets go, well, they are better than us. Not by much at all. I know we own them, but they sure take care of business against everyone else. They are also a great road team. I have no idea if we can catch them, but we won’t unless we perform well the next 10 games. Perform well means 7-3 at least. That will get us to 72-62, 10 games over .500. Then we will walk into a 9 game home stand against the Mets, Phils and Nats. I’m pretty tired of predicting streaks for this team. They really need to go out and do it. The back end needs to perform better. Bottom line.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

Coach, the Kool-Aid thing’s getting pretty worn out. Try a new cliche (shouldn’t be a problem with you).

By the way, for those who believe I get paid extra if the Braves advance to the playoffs, or get a bonus for picking them to win the division, or if you’re so out of touch as to think the Braves players and manager really give two cents’ worth about my opinion of their chances, then you really are gullible or naive.

If you think I do myself any favors by pointing out that Wickman’s been terrible on the road and that Soriano’s a better choice for the job when he’s on his game, or that Moylan’s a better choice, then you’re just not using logic or giving it serious thought.

Wickman can’t stand me for pointing out how he’s struggled and for using Cox’s quote earlier in the season about how him and Paronto can’t fit in the cab. Then probably for also pointing out on July 31 the Braves were considering trading him if they got him through waivers.

Dude wouldn’t give me the time of day if I saw him walking down the street.

And then on here on the blog, I get anonymous jakes accusing me of defending the guy. Geez, how I’d love for a couple of you to try to handle this assignment, just for one day. Couple of you tough-talking guys. It’d be hilarious. Really would.

By GOP HERO--LOL

August 19, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

Dear Paladin, I shortened my name for you and will make my question even easier for you—-How many teams in MLB who had played in a division consisting of Montreal, Florida, Philadelphia and New York—during that same time frame—would have won with the SAME frequency of division titles and EVEN if they had won 1 or 2 less wouldn’t you have bet they would have won more than 1!!!!!! World Series with many of those years having a rotation with 3!!!! future Hall of Famers????

Paladin, answer that truthfully. It will set you free.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

August 19, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

KC , your on drugs but you definitely need a hug. The Braves have reeled off 116 straight games (58-58) of .500 baseball , You keep dreaming the dream of .600 baseball. Carlyle has an ERA of 6.12 in his last five starts , James has an ERA of 7.01 in his last five. Cormier has one decent start so far. Like I said before , Hudson , Smoltz and hope for ten runs from the offense.

By Metropolitan Man

August 19, 2007 7:40 PM | Link to this

Keep your heads high brave fans (the real ones), you won today. You wouldnt think it with the reading of this blog but you did. When braves fans start out numbering the “fairweather fans”, then you guys might be able to rock the boat in a positive way. And to make my point clear, I’m talking about fan bases like the R. Sox, Cubs, Reds, Stankees,Indians,Dodgers and maybe the Giants. These fans show up no matter what the record or standings say. They come to cheer and boo, but they come. I didnt mention the METS becasue we suffer a similar problem in our fanbase. In 2005 alone, I would go to the Ted for a METS-braves series and not see much blue and orange. Now I go to the Ted and the orange and blue is abundant just like last year. I ask those bums where have they been for the past 15 years when things were up and down, mostly down. So challenge your fans to really get behind your team or go follow preseason football. I remember a few years back, Sheffield and Chunmper Hooter Jones were mouthing off throught the media for lack of fan support…during a penneant race. Dont let that happen again, somebody pleas get on Youtube and make another video…please. Its no fun talking to you guys when you are losing, its annoyingto talk to you guys when you are winning so I’ll take this time and deem it as the middle ground.

LETS GO METS! (barring the 10-7 lost in Pitt, the METS would have back2back sweeps)

By KC

August 19, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

Mark: Yes, just as I suspected.

You’re a “realist”. A person who draws conclusions only from rational, well reasoned, balanced analysis.

Where are those of us who actually think this is a pretty good team must be unconditional optimists, who throw the facts to the side as we stare at the situation through our half-full, rose colored glass.

Hmmm… maybe you’re right. Or maybe we’re realists and you’re a pessimist. Time will tell. Again, always open to a friendly wager. Since all the facts are apparently on your side, I would expect you to be quite anxious to put a little money behind your “mediocre at best” assertion.

Either way, congratulations for your patent on rational thought.

By Mark

August 19, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Tomahawkin Again, I feel you, but those teams had something that this team doesn’t have and that’s good starting pitching. Even the 2004 Braves had a better starting staff than this team.

KC, like I said earlier I know that you are a glass half full type of guy, but let’s not go crazy. You are right we have a better offense and timely hitting, but our bullpen isn’t good. They have skills, but they have been overworked because of the starters.

Chuck James, even on a good night goes on average 5 1/3 innings. That hurts the bullpen.

Carlyle has been a surprise but he has been a little shaky lately.

Our fifth starter no matter who it’s been (Redman, Lerew, Reyes) has been bad.

KC you have to admit that Hudson might be close to 20 wins and Smoltz should have at least 15 if the bullpen was GOOD.

Wickman may have blown only 6 saves but what about Soriano. He has blown several himself. He is walking tee looking to give up a homerun at any time. What about the games that were tied and Soriano came and blew (See Mets Game Moises ALou in the 8th)

KC you have to admit their has been some momentum turning games this season that have killed us.

Do you remember the Florida game when Wickman blew the game that would have clinched a sweep just before the all star break. If you remember Escobar had a great at bat and ended up getting a big two out hit that gave the Braves the lead in the 9th.

What about the Houston game when we overcame 5-1 deficit to take a 9-5 lead. Mr. Soriano gave up a grandslam.

What about the game when we overcame a 7-0 deficit against the Diamondbacks and ended up losing because Ledezman. I know he is gone now, but that was one of many games that could have changed the momentum.

You can’t tell me that you aren’t a little skeptical about their chances.

By ijonathan

August 19, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this

DOB LOL buddy. The woe-is-me sentiment is classic. In the same post you both lowered yourself into the depths of blogger vitriol (which I wallow in occasionally as well) AND claimed to be so far above it all that none of us could handle your assignment. Reminds me of Chipper’s quote a few years ago about how hard it was to be a major league player, you know, all the travel and having to stay in those slummy hotels.

Keep it up. Makes the blog reading worthwhile.

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

Goop hero lol The most profound thing you have ever said was “Carpe the Burrito”. What a doophus.

By Efrim

August 19, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

We can go 25-13. Can’t we? This is a talented team. Definetly the most talented team since 2003. Has to be. Right?

By A-ville Ranger

August 19, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

JJS The summer has been nice and cool up this way till a couple of weeks ago.An average day topped out in the high 70s or low 80s.Still I’ll take mid to high 80s over 100 or more any ole time.If you’re still in town try a drive on the parkway,it’s never summer up there.If you take it east to the craggys and look south you can see my house………DOB if you’ve never biked on the parkway it’s a hell of a trip.

By KC

August 19, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

Coach: I’ll alway take a hug!

Hey, look… I already told you, I’m not trying to make the case that this rotation is good after Smoltz and Hudson. It’s not.

But you’re twisting the numbers a bit on Chuck James. He was very good until his last few starts. His July ERA was 2.48.

I agree that James is inconsistent, and as such… you don’t like having to depend on him. But again, if he’s and up-&-down pitcher, and he’s down right now…

Chuck James will pitch better.

I wish I could say I’m as confident in Carlyle, but I’m not. Again, don’t know if he’s just slumping, or if the clock has struck midnight.

As for Cormier, yes you’re absolutely right… only one good start so far. We’ll just have to wait and see if it was a lucky day, or a signal that he’s found the form he had last September (when he posted a 3.25 ERA in 5 starts) and this spring.

But either way, now that Smoltz’s shoulder is felling better, with this new offense, and a solid bullpen… it’s pretty damn tough to beat this team when Smotlz or Huddy is on the mound.

Let’s say the Braves win 4 of every 5 games that are started by either Smoltz or Hudson the rest of the way (which is VERY doable)… the Braves would only have to play about .500 ball in the non-Smoltz/Hudson games in order to play about .600 ball the rest of the way.

If you think that’s far fetched, I don’t know what to tell you.

By JD

August 19, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

This has been a very frustrating team to root for because they have sputtered for 3 months now. But they are in it and it’s almost September. Wellington Mara used to judge whether a NY Giants’ season was successful by whether or not they had a chance to make the playoffs in week 17. We should do the same with the Braves.

By Mark

August 19, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

KC, call me a pessimist but what I am saying is true.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 19, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this

perhaps a canned ham sent to wicky’s room would heal the hurt. or flabravesgirl could send a red velvet cake. or, perhaps “hoss” could put in a good word for dob. caution, word would probably be, “uh”.

carolina lady, journalist did try to cook those biscuits on the stove. that could be the problem. could explain the smoke alarm, too.

now, who are these blog “tough guys”? sja for sure. choppinmama? hk? jimmy smith? name some names.

lake lure was most lovely but shouldn’t it be cool in the mountains? not cool at lake lure today.

and what progress is being made in preparing grinch for the ceremonies? a report, please.

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

If you think that’s far fetched, I don’t know what to tell you.

Let’s have a contest. What should KC tell Coach. Including where to go. Keep it clean. The most esteemed lady is still with us.

By Eric C.

August 19, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

The Braves are 1.5 back, but the wildcard is sitting on a silver platter for them…it’s theirs to lose.

By A-ville Ranger

August 19, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

I’m not sure I want this team to make the post season.It’s not that I wish the team or fans bad luck.The truth is I don’t see a team that looks ready to make a run once in and the quick exits have worn me down.This is a talented team and I haven’t given up but as of now they just don’t have the look of a contender..

By Paladin

August 19, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

I’m going to bed. I am drunk, but a happy drunk. My Braves won and I had a good dinner. Now, if I can have a good…oh forget that. Savannah Guy won’t let me talk about that. See y’all in the morning.

By KC

August 19, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Mark: This team had many disappointing games this year.

You probably missed it, but earlier in the season, I posted a declaration that the Braves would NOT catch the Mets this year.. unless the Braves made some substantial upgrades at the deadline, which I thought was unlikely.

But fortunately, I was pleasantly surprised. We did make substantial upgrades.

I’m not at ALL impressed with this rotation after Hudson and Smoltz. But I think it has the definite potential to be good enough. By “good enough”, I mean slightly over .500 the rest of way.

With the way Smoltz and Hudson are pitching, with this offense, and a decent bullpen that will get deeper on Sept. 1… I think that’s all we need.

Will we get slightly above .500 baseball (or better) for this rotation after Smoltz/Hudson? Who knows… but again, with this offense and pen, I think we will.

As I’ve mentioned to Coach, Chuck James posted a 2.48 ERA in July, and had a very good ERA heading into his last few starts. He’s inconsistent, but everything we’ve seen from James so far says he’ll pitch better than what we’ve seen so far in August.

And I’m not telling you or anyone else that I know what to expect from Cormier. But after seeing him last September and this Spring… I’m hopeful that his last start wasn’t dumb luck.

I’m looking at the same facts you are, and I just don’t agree with you. I know you attribute our difference of opinion to your “realism” and my “optimism”. Personally, I don’t find an ounce of realism in your “mediocre at best” comment.

And I’ll say it for a 3rd time… I’m open to any wager you’d like to arrange.

By N8

August 19, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this

DOB

I’ve often wonders “who” in the club-house don’t care for you much, or more specificaly things you’ve written about them.

Maybe Wickman should be more concerned about making his road ERA as good as his home ERA, than about somebody writing about it. Especially since without the guys (like you) writing about it and the pundits on ESPN talking about them and showing highlights, their salaries wouldn’t be what they are.

Now I can understand if you made something up, or simply gave your “opinion” that he’s not as effective on the road. But facts is facts, and from the way I see it, the only person he should be mad at should be Bob Wickman.

Been a long week of work for me, with a few more to come. Lord knows I’d “love” to be on here all hours of the day spewing my negativity after a .500 homestand. But I don’t have time to post as much these days. Still reading though, and trying to chime in when I can.

So even though you tore me a new rectum last week, just wanted to say that I appreciate you reporting what there is to report. IE: Pointing out facts (like Wickman’s home/road splits), since I’m a stat guy and love stuff like that.

Just wanted to say that because I haven’t been posting, doesn’t mean I’m tired of the blog or anything. Still the best thing to do after the fam is in bed for the night, and one of the few things I like forward to at that time of the day.

Keep up the good work my man. The way I see it, if you aint pizzin’ somebody off, than you aint reporting the facts.

BTW, since the Braves home/road batting stats in general are as lopsided as Wickan’s, this 10 game roadtrip might be the best/last chance to make a run, before we fall to far out of contention. Still not overly confident in any of the guys in the rotation NOT named Hudson or Smoltz, but maybe the bats can carry us for the next 10 games.

For those that haven’t seen it or if it was posted earlier, there is a nice write up by John Donovan on Tex on the SI website.

Click here to read

Enjoy the evening denizens.

By joebrave

August 19, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this

In the immortal words of Jim Mora sr. Playoffs,Playoffs,Playoffs,who the he11 said anything about PLayoffs,We’ll be lucky to play .500 ball the rest of the way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Metropolitan Man

August 19, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

This is what happens when you actually HAVE to manage as opposed to letting a talented team cruise on cruise control like you have for 14 years. Bobby doesnt know how to light the fire, you have to take him back to 1991 and suprise him with multiple victories in a row. Oh, and pitching doenst hurt. All this other stuff is nonsense with the juugernaut you guys have. Pitching and managing will get you .600 ball. Oh, this stuff about nobody availbale on waivers….how did you guys end up with Sosa a couple a years back. You took a gamble on a pitcher on a bad team. Granted he is inconsistent but with MLB caliber pitching available, why not take a shot. Ever consider they were “ok” pitchers that made them worse because of lack of run support from their bottom dwelling teams. Take a gamble becasue its not coming form within this year!!!!

By Metropolitan Man

August 19, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

Hero: Wilson Betemit, who started at shortstop for Derek Jeter — who got the day off. Betemit drove in four runs and broke the game open with a bases-loaded double in the eighth.

One that got away????????????

By Braves Fan 79

August 19, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

The Mets and Padres play next….i dunno about yall but the smart team to pull for the rest of the year is the Mets. I hope they SWEEP the padres, and then i hope they SWEEP the phillies. This will greatly help our wildcard chances. Go Braves!

By Salty

August 19, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

Mark I simply used the same bloody fact you did to point out our perspectives differ. It had singularly nothing to do with opinion.

Playing .500 ball probably won’t do it, but who’s really to say? All I posted was 3-3 Crap ball still had the Braves only 1.5 games out of the hunt. It’s true, is it not? To me, that’s reason for optimism; I didn’t ask you to feel the same.

By Alex

August 19, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

What is the situation on Edgar’s status?

I’m only asking b/c

1. Great American Ballpark is a cracker box and a hitter friendly park, and Edgar was racking up hits like nobody’s business before getting hurt
2. The Braves are facing 2 lefty starters in a row, MON/TUE which means it’ll be good to have Edgar back at SS, and put Yunel at 2B instead of Kelly Johnson who doesn’t hit lefties that well.

Ron I am not quite sure Wickman would be that terrible in playoff situations, but I absolutely agree that having a dominant closer is key, or a guy who shuts the door, like Adam Weignwright did for the Cards last year. He was automatic in the playoffs and pitched with a moxy.

I do worry that if the Braves make the playoffs, and Wickman closes…he is one of the more “beatable” closers in MLB, esp. on the road. What if he is asked to close a game out on the road in the playoffs? I mean having a flame throwing guy doesn’t guarantee automatic saves…remember how untouchable Brad Lidge was a few years ago, and he got light up in the NLCS and WS and has not been the same since. He was a hard thrower who often K’d the side. So it’s not guaranteed that Wickman will struggle more or less, but it doesn’t make me feel “at ease” by anymeans. Wickman is a guy who plays with matches, and eventually, you get burned. I wasn’t referring to just giving up hits and baserunners, but also walks. He walks quite a few batters when he is in the game.

By Bob, Journalist

August 19, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this

NaCly, trick questions are never permitted on Sunday … while not interchangeable, decent is what many bloggers are not, as is modest … though I will agree that the standards of those so described aren’t high.

I like power but there’s a difference between line drives and fly balls.

Mr. Fly, much obliged for the kind words! … Savannah too, make that three!

Time for another Miss Jane on PBS … Marple, that is … later!

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this

55-35 in the starts of Smoltz, Hudson, James, and Buddy, a 99 win pace.

10-24 in the starts of the others, a 48 win pace, hence, why we are on an 85 win pace.

Since June 25, Hudson (10-0), James (5-4), Smoltz (4-5), Buddy (6-4). That makes them 25-13 since June 25th in the starts of those guys, a 107 win pace. 1-8 in the starts of the other guys, an 18 win pace, hence, why they are on a 90 win pace since June 25.

By anonymous poster

August 19, 2007 9:03 PM | Link to this

hey DOB, love your “in your face” blogsmanship! Where is your picture, photo, drawing, or caricature, posted? I’ve always wondered why you hide your face.

By Salty

August 19, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

Bob, J

Sigh….I’m just not up on all the rules! :-(

Alas!

By LT (double A blogger)

August 19, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

Met man, why don’t you start discussing managing when your manager actually wins WS.

Mark, everyone on this board watches the same games. I’m sure everyone on this board gets just as unnerved as you every time Wickman pitches. I’m certain you wouldn’t see a revolt on the board if Cox threw Moylan in for a 9th inning.

It isn’t going to happen. It isn’t going to happen because as long as Wickman is getting the job done (no matter how ugly) as it wouldn’t make sense. What? Are you going to move Wickman to middle relief or mop up roles in mid August in a playoff race? As long as he shows he can get the job done- he will be the closer. (As I type this, I realize I am jinxing Wickman to failure, so I will acknowledge that I am jinxing him and type the aknowledgment that I am jinxing him in order to reverse the jinx….there)

If the Braves don’t make the playoffs, it is because of three things.

1) Hamp getting hurt again. The Braves would be leading the division if we had Hamp in there anywhere close to where he was when he got hurt. 2) Gonzalez getting hurt. The bullpen was lights out until he got hurt. 3) AJ’s contractitis, errr elbow.

Anyone of those three things doesn’t happen, and I think the Braves would be in first place right now. I really don’t see where BC has failed this year given the options. Yes he can be stubborn, but I’ve seen that work just as much to his advantage as his detriment.

By David O'Brien

August 19, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

Alex, I had an entry this afternoon about Edgar’s status. Passed running and batting-practice tests before game today, should be activated during the Cincy series, but maybe not until Tuesday or Wednesday….

N8, thanks for that line. It’s appreciated….

MetroMan, ask the Dodgers why they traded Betemit. He was supposed to be their 3B this season. Instead of looking at his one-game numbers, probably be better to look at the overall body of work…

Ijonathan, you just keep posting and reading, don’t worry about this end. We’ll handle that, pal….

Anonymous poster, I “hide” my face? What other non-columnists do you see with their pictures in the paper or on our website? Just curious. And my photo’s been posted here before. If you’d like to see it, Google “Best of Cox” and look for the blog award. You can see my photo right there, if it makes you feel better.

Or you can find me in the pressbox, the left-hand third of the writers’ area, if you’re looking up from the seats. Other than that, and you knowing my name and a lot of other stuff about me, don’t know how else to make you feel better about things.

By ijonathan

August 19, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

To jump into the “Wickman” question with both feet…

IMO, the moniker “closer” connotes much more than simply the last guy out of the bullpen when your team has the lead. A true closer is an intimidating presence (note: this doesn’t necessarily mean he throws hard…see Trevor Hoffman…but more often than not he does) in the bullpen that is omnipresent and affects the game well before he enters it.

Here are several questions to ask yourself to evaluate whether Wickman is a true “closer” or merely the guy who, more often than not, ends up pitching the 9th when the Braves have the lead. In the case of a true closer, all questions below would be answered “Yes”. Think Smoltz when he closed. Or Gagne for 2+ years in LA. Or Hoffman and Rivera for most of their careers, etc.

1. When Wickman comes into the game, are Bobby and Roger able to relax and not worry about having another pitcher on standby to come in? (Answer: NO)

2. Is Bobby as confident bringing Wickman in to a “tight” save situation (two on, nobody out, 1 run lead) as he is in an easy save situation (3 run lead, nobody on)? (Answer: NO)

3. Can Bobby bring Wickman in to get 1 or 2 outs when it is absolutely imperative that the batter NOT put the ball in play (i.e. man on third, 1 out, tie game)? (Answer: NO)

4. Does the possibility of seeing Wickman in the 9th cause the opposing team/hitters to grind their bat handles into sawdust in the 6th, 7th or 8th inning, knowing they aren’t going to get a sniff in the 9th? (Answer: No)

5. Does the possibility of seeing Wickman in the 9th cause the opposing manager to alter his strategy, perhaps taking more risks earlier in the game, knowing that it is unlikely his team could mount a comeback in the 9th? (Answer: No)

6. Does having Wickman in the pen allow Bobby to establish a set routine among his other relief pitchers? (Answer: No)

7. Does Wickman have an “out” pitch he can rely on most nights, when he absolutely needs to get an out? (Answer: No)

So, DOB and others, I would heartily argue that “a save is not always a save”, and Wickman is not a “closer”. A closer carries with it a set of qualities that Wickman does not posses.

By anonymous poster

August 19, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

Yeah O’Brien, I’ve seen that photo. I just thought it was a mistake.

Thank you, I feel better.

By chrisklob

August 19, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, belated congratulations on your Wurlitzer! I’ve been reading the blog off and on today and didn’t realize until just a little while ago that you’d earned this lofty honor. You’ll have to change your moniker to “Braveheart, Esteemed Journalist” now!

Mark and all of the other naybrayers that have been on here poisoning an otherwise fine blog: We see the glass as half-full; you see it as half-empty. It’s simply a matter of perspective. We can only agree to disagree.

The optimists on this blog are NOT blind or unaware of the short-comings of this ball club. However, we don’t harp on ONLY the negative aspects of this club. There is much to like about this year’s vintage of the Atlanta Braves. Consistent, they are not, at least not yet. But, they have as much or more talent than any other team in the NL and when they learn how to make things happen they’re going to be incredible. Are you aware of how young this team is? Do you realize how many of these kids have less than two years service time in the bigs?

One of these days these kids are going to figure it out and go on a long string of wins. Until that happens I am sure that you and all the other pessimists will be crying your Chicken Little nonsense about how mediocre this team is and how they don’t have a chance. But really, what good does that do? Not much, in my opinion. My advice to you all is to find something else to do. Quit watching the Braves. Quit reading and posting on this blog. Quit because obviously this team has no chance so watching/reading/blogging is a waste of your time. And quit because you’re annoying the he11 out of the people on this blog that still like this team. You know, the real fans. Not the fairweather ones like you.

Paladin will probably yell at me for such a long, electronically inefficient post. Can you imagine how many bits and bytes I’ve so carelessly wasted? :-)

I have one last thing to say, and this is with deadly sincerity. Say a little prayer for the folks in Jamaica tonight. They’re getting pounded by Hurricane Dean right now. Having lived through a couple myself, I have a lot of empathy for those folks. And say a little prayer for the folks in the Yucatan Peninsula. They’re going to get it tomorrow night.

By Efrim

August 19, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

April: 16-9 May: 14-14 June:13-15 July:13-13 August: 9-8

That is unbelievable. I really don’t understand it. We have the talent to have a better record than that. What discourages me is the August record. In July, our starting pitching was great and our bullpen was bad, now in August, our #3 and #4 starters are failing us. I am really not 100% certain that we are capable of winning 7 of 10 against the Reds, Cardinals and Marlins on the road. And what worries me more is that we will have to face the Phillies and Mets 12 times in the final 28 games.

I really thought we could go 5-1 against the Giants and D-Backs and then take off, but we were unable to do so. We have lost 2 of our last 3 series and I really think we need to start sweeping some series. Just winning series isn’t going to get it done because it is unrealistic to think that we could win every series from here on out. We are going to lose a couple, so that means we need to sweep a couple to off set it.

I guess it is a little much to say we need to go 25-13 the rest of the way to make the playoffs. Who knows? Maybe the Padres, Phillies, Dodgers, and Rockies will continue to play inconsistent baseball.

One thing is for certain, if Chuck James and Buddy Carlyle don’t turn it around quickly, then we won’t get to the playoffs.

We caught a real break not having to face Aaron Harang this week against the Reds. Lets take advantage of that.

By ijonathan

August 19, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

Chrisklob You’re correct. The blog would be much better if only ardent Brave optimists were on it. That would sure foster discussion and interest, wouldn’t it! After every game, regardless the outcome, the posts would all go something like this: (Forgive me Ron for the use of multiple exclamation points)

Boy, that Smoltz is a warrior!!! And Huddy, he’s in line for the Cy Young!!! And Teixera, what a pickup, an RBI per game! And hey, James’ ERA from May whatever to July whatever was whatever, and hey, that Yunel is a real gamer! And, don’t worry about that fifth spot in the rotation because once we cruise into the playoffs, it won’t matter!!! And Kolb, I mean Reitsma, I mean Wickman keeps racking up those saves (we only have home games left, correct?)!!!And didn’t Joe Morgan say Andruw was putting in extra time in the cage?

That would sure be an interesting blog.

By chupecabras

August 19, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

bobby cox sucks.

By gotech

August 19, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

Might as well root for GA Tech, as the BullFrogs will suck as bad as the braves this year

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

Klobber Saw your posts today and agree with all you have said. Thanks for the congrats. Your day will be coming soon I am sure. Very frustrating are some of these latest fellas. Maybe if I saw some analytical abilities coming from them, it would be okay. Say what you want about N8 but the man can write and have intelligent, passionate, principled posts supporting his negative viewpoints which are negative because they come from his own principles about what he thinks is the right direction for the team.

But, with these cheap N8 impersonators, all I see are plagiarism and b******* of the things the optimists and DOB and N8 throw out there as part of a reasonable intelligent discussion on the state of the team. They steal that info and b******* it to suit their warped views of the team. Then they start throwing it in the face of DOB and the optimists and claim these things as their own thoughts, facts, and such as if they need to teach us about things we had actually said ourselves first before still reaching an optimistic opinion.

Oh, whatever. Always fun reading your enlightend posts Klobber. You too Salty

By A-ville Ranger

August 19, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

chriskolb I share your long term assessment of the young talent on this team.Where we may have a different view is the question of whether this is the season they come together.Where I seem to have a different view from those on either end of the optimist scale is with my biggest concern.First I agree the toughest challenge in making the post season is pitching.As I posted earlier I’m not interested in just making the cut and getting ripped early.I see the pitching as pretty good for a post season run if Smoltz and Hudson are on their games.The thing that has left us with one championship instead of the four or five that were within our grasp is the type of offense Bobby favors.My excitement in resent months has been fueled by what looked to me like a more complete lineup of tough outs in the mold of Chipper.Lately I just don’t see Kelly fouling off tough pitches or McCann making those great adjustments with his hands.In short they look like many other Braves teams minus the great depth in pitching.I’ve seen these guys hit like grinders so I do have hope.We’ll see soon enough if they are ready,if not I’d as soon watch football in oct.

By Mark

August 19, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

ChrisKlob, it’s a shame that if someone has a realistic perspective on a team they are view as not liking the team. I mean come on man.

I know this team is young, talking about stating the obvious. I have not blamed the position players like Johnson, Francouer, and McCann. I have blamed the so called experience veterans. Last time I checked Wickman, Soriano, and Andruw were veterans. Everybody on this blog knows that the kids are consistent. It’s the veteran bullpen pitchers and our centerfielder that suck. The kids have it figured out.

I mean for you to say I am “poisoning the blog” just because I have a different opinion is pathetic. It’s ok to have a different opinion Chrisklob. I think the people on this blog who are considered “pessimist” have right to be that way. Let’s be honest we have seen better Braves team fail. I think the one thing that kills me is that most people just want this team to make the playoffs.

If this team were to make the playoffs and then lose in the Division Series would you consider this season a great one?

My advice to you is if you don’t like my post, don’t read them. When you see my name just keep scrolling since you can’t stand a different opinion.

By Braveheart

August 19, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

Mark The problem is not Chucky, Buddy, Wicky, Andruw, the offense, or the pen.

In April, in the starts of the top 4 starters, the Braves were 15-6, a 116 win pace. JS, TH, CJ, KD.

In May, they were 13-10, a 92 win pace in the starts of the top 4 starters. JS, TH, CJ, KD.

In June, they were 12-9 in the starts of the top 4, a 93 win pace. JS, TH, CJ, BC.

In July, they were 12-7, a 102 win pace in the starts of the top 4. JS, TH, CJ, BC.

In August, they are 8-6, a 93 win pace during the starts of the top 4. JS, TH, CJ, BC.

Only given up 408 runs in the 100 starts of the top 4.

However, in the starts of the fifths, in April, 1-3; in May, 1-4; in June, 1-6; in July, 1-6; in August, 0-2. That makes them 4-21 in the starts of the fifth starters. They have given up an astounding 171 runs in those 25 games.

Davies counts as a 4th starter in April through June 1st (6-4); Buddy as the 4th since that time (9-5). Davies was a fifth from June 2nd onward.

Don’t really understand why people continue to struggle to see what the problem is and keep pointing fingers at patsies. The problem is not Chucky, Buddy, Wicky, Andruw, the offense, or the pen. You simply can’t win games giving up 7 runs every five days, and you can’t win pennants going 4-21 out of one spot in your rotation.

It’s kind of a commercial that goes this is your pitching, this is your pitching on crack. Got the message?

By Overlord

August 19, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this

ijonathan i think what you said about wickman sure is something important, the man does not gives any confidence not only to bobby, but to other player, therefore he is not giving the team what it needs……… its is clear to me (and to a lot of braves fans) that moylan right now is our best option for a closer, i think wickman would be a better option for 8th inning since he is not giving lots of HR (im not sure about), and soriano would be better option for 7th inning (i think he will perform better there…….less pressure).

For now i think the braves should focus on the wildcard to gain confidence, win 5 or 6 out of 7 from cards and reds, pick up a pair of games, if we do that, maybe we could go into the fish series 3 games back of the mets, pick up a game there and then go against the mets….. a sweep means 1st place, 2 out of 3 means 2 GB, which is not bad to start sept. and will give us a really good shot at the division title.

BUT……….this is easy to say and looks good on paper…… not so easy on the field.

I think braves can sweep the cards…….easily if bobby cox can remember that pujols is one of the best 3 players in the majors and that we can not let him beat us….. pitch around the guy….. there is no one behind him half as dangerous as he is. Reds we can easily sweep…… lets take 6 out of the next 7 boys and pick up 2 games on the mets.

By flbravesgirl

August 20, 2007 12:03 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, your 12:02 should be required reading on here. Congrats on your well-deserved Wurlitzer win!

jimmy, I would be happy to provide a Red Velvet cake to help smooth over the rift between BigBob & DOB. Just not quite sure how I would get it there; it would definately not ship well.

I don’t think Grinch has reported for his makeover yet. He’s still trying to recover from his birthday. Going by Lew’s description I’d say CL had better sharpen the hedge trimmer.

By Overlord

August 20, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

Braveheart BINGO….. i agree with you on 99% of your point……. but i still would add AJ to that equation. He has been soooooooooo bad.

In the same way that you cant win with what you pointed out from the 5th spot, you cant win if an everyday player (AJ has started 99% of the braves games this year), who is supposed to be one of the leaders, a guy the kids can count on to pick up their mistakes or bad at bats, a guy that is supposed not only to drive 110 runs but also put pressure on opposing pitchers and hit for at least .270……. is doing nothing…….NOTHING!!!!!!!!!!!! PURE CONTAMINATION TO THIS TEAM !!!!!!

I have said it before and here it goes again * AJ and the 5th spot in the rotation are the only reason for the braves not to be some 5 games ahead of the mets……period*

What is frustrating about it is that bobby cox has more option to explore and he has not done so:

1. Willie and AJ start half and half games at CF.

2. Villarreal as a 5th starter.

3. Maybe even moylan as a 5th starter (THIS ONE IS NOT AS GOOD AN OPTION BUT WE ARE IN AN EMERGENCY HERE).

By Savannah Guy

August 20, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

ijonathan Just checked in before calling it a night, saw your posts and DOB’s replies…and wanted to send you a note. I’m sticking my nose into this because I think you have a lot to offer the blog, but you may be getting off on the wrong foot here. Or perhaps you are a long time blogger here and I don’t know what the hell I’m talking about and you’ll do as you damn well pleas. If that’s the case…nevermind.

If you are interested, do yourself, DOB and the blog a favor and stop trying to prove something here. You made a reasonable point, DOB took it as an unnecessary technical “correction” (it was) and it seems to have escalated from there because you have pressed and prodded.

Man, DOB didn’t state that Wickman got a “save”. He wasn’t being technical, so just drop it and be content. Even if you feel you are right, just drop it and move on. He’s juggling chainsaws out there and can’t possibly spell everything out to the degree to which someone who is looking for holes can’t find one…even if semantics. So please give it a break.

Hey, I was just commending you earlier today for a recent post of yours. Did you see it? Look at the Bobby Cox post. It may take some wading through (long) but there you are. You are obviously a bright guy but don’t let what you feel was a slap by DOB set you off (it wasn’t). It’s all cool…chill.

Write another good post like you did yesterday.

By Metropolitan Man

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

DOB: Forget Betemits 1 day numbers, look at the uni he is wearing. As much as I hate the stankees (braves more), they dont usually pick up trash they dont need. I’m not a fan of his but I do know everytime he played the braves he raked and so far the stankees and their fans are happy with his performance. Thats what I noticed, oh and plus the braves traded him.

LT (double A blogger):

How long did it take good ole Booby to win his 1st WS? I’ll go with Willie and bet it does’t take him that long.

By Overlord

August 20, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

One more thing…… i was not able to watch lance´s game…. i just know he gave up only 3 runs in 7.1, that is very very good against any team and it is better considering it was against a 1st place team.

Was he really that good as the numbers he put there?

If he can duplicate that performance we look far better than more people think.

GOOOOO BRAVES!!!!!!!! IM SURE THE METS DONT WANT US TO BE THE WC WINNER AND IM SURE THEY ARE NOT THE ONLY TEAM THAT FEELS THAT WAY……

LETS GO DEEP INTO OCTOBER BOYS!!!!!

By Bob, Journalist

August 20, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this

Chrisklob, you don’t pay your detractors no nevermind … methinks you post real good. That’s a posit, not an opine!

My notion is similar to what I believe award winner William Wallace’s to be, color me green, … for the realist; being optimistic or pessimistic is situation specific, based on perception of the most likely outcome.

The pessimist tends to lend more of a negative or conservative interpretation to the facts than the realist, while the optimist does the reverse.

While there no utility in being overly pessimistic and being overly optimistic usually ends in disappointment; the main body of optimistic, pessimistic and realistic fans can all live in harmony … because they are fans; supporting and cheering, regardless of their perception of the team’s chances for success … and they’re all realists, based on their own perception.

I have no problem with fans, optimistic, pessimistic, or realistic … it’s the “others” … it makes no difference what they call themselves … and regardless of their acumen, you can tell them by their tone. They’re as fake as a three dollar bill … they’re the negative ones, even when they’re being positive.

By N8

August 20, 2007 12:26 AM | Link to this

Anytime DOB, for the record the doctors say I’ll be able to sit again sometime this week. :-)

Braveheart

Thank you for your 10:29. I appreciate the fact that some of you can see the fan in me, through the negativity. I have actually found the games to be much more enjoyable the last few days, by NOT blogging during the them.

I get that my sarcasm and negative posts can grate on some people. But MOST of it is sarcasm, and letting off some steam. Somehow or another, no matter how much the Braves (or ANY of my favorite sports teams) disappoint me the night before, I’m usually back for more the next day. Glutton for punishment, I guess.

But I appreciate that while you may not always agree with some of my posts, that you understand that I’m not just spewing off posts off the cuff. MOST of it has been thought out. Doesn’t make me right. But it doesn’t make me wrong all the time either.

Have a good one.

To All

For the record. I still don’t know about this team. It should be a fun month and a half of baseball either way. Unless they completely collapse in the next week or so, taking away all remaining hope, no matter how little is left for some of us.

But I do have to say that reading all the “gloom and doom” bloggers is kinda funny. So if I sounded (or “read”, I guess) as silly as some of them, I appologize. LOL! But, at the same time, I’m entitled to b!tch a little (or a lot), if I want. My guess is that you all have scroll dials on your mouse. If you’re sick of somebody’s posts…..ignore them, me included.

Good night all. Time to go play some Madden 08. Bought it on Wednesday and haven’t had a chance to play. Gotta practice so my 9 year old doesn’t kick my a$$. Of course being a Chief’s fan means my team pretty much SUCKS on the new game, so it looks like I might have to do some editing. Is it still cheating if you’re trying to keep your kid in his place? Just kidding.

By chrisklob

August 20, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

ijonathan, no one here is suggesting that this team is perfect. What is fatiguing to read, day after day, is the arm-chair quarterbacking that occurs after each BC decision goes wrong or every poor performance by any individual player. The true realists understand that we’re not going to win every game, or even every series. And no, not every post has to be laden with unbridled positivity. For example, please read Efrim’s 10.11 post. No problem with that post at all. It’s not full of ridiculous optimism (as you were suggesting). It’s full of realistic criticisms of this team. Key word there is realistic.

I’m all for debate. Let’s just be realistic about it. So much of the garbage posted here just isn’t realistic in the big picture. There are 38 or so games left, anything, and I mean anything can happen.

Braveheart, thank you for the kind words but I have no such lofty aspirations for myself. I’m a journeyman blogger, nothing more. Sure, I might have a nice post from time to time but never anything Wurlitzer-worthy. See ijonathan, I AM a realist!

As for N8, I agree, he’s a good writer and obviously a bright guy. It’s been interesting to read him over the course of the season. I’ve noticed that his most recent posts have not been nearly as negative as before. My biggest beef with him is when he tries to predict a series loss even before it’s played out (he did it last during the Mets series). I mean, seriously, there’s a reason they actually play the games. I like the Braves chances against just about any other team. But Braveheart, you are correct in his abilities. And frankly, he’s much more Wurlitzer worthy than I will ever be.

A-ville Ranger, I’m glad you share my optimism for the future. Why can’t that future happen right now? We have the pieces. At various times of this season all of those pieces have performed well. Why can’t this team gel and start hitting on all cylinders starting tomorrow? And once you get to the post-season, well, anything can happen. Just look at last year’s version of the St. Louis Cardinals. By the way, I’m not particularly interested in making the playoffs and losing in the DS, much less the CS or the WS.

Mark, I think that we have different definitions of the word realistic. While many of the negative nellies look only at what happened today, or in the last inning, I prefer to look at it from a season-long standpoint. As I stated before, ANYTHING can happen in the last 38 games of this season. Neither you, nor I have a crystal ball that gives us the ability to predict the future. What happens if Ryan Howard, Cole Hamels, or whoever suffers a season-ending injury tomorrow? What happens if the same thing happens to Jose Reyes or David Wright? (No, I’m not wishing that on them or anyone else.) What happens if the Braves finish this season 25-13? No, nothing so far has indicated that will happen but what if it does? It’s not out of the realm of possibility, not with the pieces that this team has. And that’s my problem with many of the posts lately is that so many people are willing to discount the potential of this team. To be clear, it is just that: potential. But, until this team is mathematically eliminated from post season I will continue to hope for a great season for them. Unlike you, I still like our chances.

By Bob, Journalist

August 20, 2007 12:50 AM | Link to this

Though I addressed neither Nathan nor Shaun in my previous post, they were in my mind’s eye … methinks both are among our best and most loyal fans though our perspectives frequently conflict … I’ve enjoyed our occasional exchanges, regardless of how it might sometimes appear.

By chrisklob

August 20, 2007 12:55 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist, thank you for the kind words. While we’ve never really talked much directly, if ever, I appreciate many, if not all, of your posts. And I am not afraid of taking on any detractors. Most of them can’t back up the garbage that they’re spewing.

N8, I’ve told you before that I appreciate your posts. Even when I don’t agree with you, I enjoy hearing your arguments as they are almost always well thought out with facts to back them up. I also appreciate the fact that lately you haven’t been so negative. Hey, if not posting during the games works for you then so be it. It’s gotta be better for your overall state of mind.

By A-ville Ranger

August 20, 2007 12:55 AM | Link to this

ChrisKolb Who said they couldn’t come together ? not me.The point I thought I articulated fairly well in my last post is the hitters have regressed of late.My biggest concern not just for this season but going into next and beyond this the possibility there is a systemic resistance to the kind of hitting that in my humble opinion gives the best chance for post season success.I really do hope to see the team grind some good pitching down in the coming weeks. I’d be as happy as anyone of you to see another title come to town.I’ll say again though, I would rather them not make the playoffs than go in with a team that can’t handle the better pitchers.

By Bob, Journalist

August 20, 2007 12:58 AM | Link to this

I’m shutting down … either God’s bowling again or there’s one heck of a storm about to hit!

Goodnight Miss Allen

By TennesseePaul

August 20, 2007 1:22 AM | Link to this

So, last weekend I went out and picked up a few bottles of wine and some beer. (Hey, my children need wine.) I find a copy of Harry Potter on sale for $18 and I pick it up. I’ve read all 7 now and really enjoyed this last one. But the problem I have is, when I picked this book up the Braves were close to the Division Title. Now that I’ve put it back down, The Braves are getting all Dodger about the Division and falling out of it. I see no need to go into it. I’m sure N8, Coach and Robert have covered every possible reason. I do think this team can still climb back in though. We hit a hot team while our division foes matched up against the cellar dwellars of the league. But to make sure that statement sticks the Braves are going to have to really pick it up against the Reds. Phillies and Mets are heading West. Hopefully the West wakes up.

Now DOB, I’ve scanned through this blog and I see a call for a presentation of the Teixeira Wurlitzer by a couple of denizens… What’s the verdict? Is the hard work of the denizens going to get a chance to be presented?

GO BRAVES

By David O'Brien

August 20, 2007 1:30 AM | Link to this

Man, just finished watching Shooter, and it’s a damn good movie. I think Grinch or some other regular recommended it a while back, and we finally got around to renting it tonight. Very strong.

Later

By A-ville Ranger

August 20, 2007 1:35 AM | Link to this

Bob Journalist I’m not against the waspish, retro,cocktail party facade.It can be intertaining at times.It’s my view though if you’re going to denigrate other bloggers say who you’re referring to.SAY IT LIKE A MAN.There’s an old saying about pots calling kettles black.

By Serbok

August 20, 2007 1:53 AM | Link to this

GIVE’EM H3LL LEW!! I’m also tired of the whiney so called fans of the “Game”! What a performance by Smoltzie!!!!!!!!!! Priceless!!!! TEX hits 2!!!! Watch Our Bravo’s pull a rabbit out of their hat!!!!!! Mr Cormeier Awesome number 3 guy:o) Right when we need him most? :o)

By Bob, Journalist

August 20, 2007 1:59 AM | Link to this

A-ville Ranger, you have me at a disadvantage … I have no idea as to what or to which you’re referring.

It’s not my practice or desire to denigrate anyone and I am most sincerely not familiar with the meaning of the “waspish, retro, cocktail party facade” phrase.

By A-ville Ranger

August 20, 2007 2:45 AM | Link to this

Bob Journalist The phrase wasn’t plagiarism it’s an actual thought that could explain why you’re not familar with it.My referance was to your 12.24 post in particular your referance to ‘others’ and ‘they’re as fake as a three dollar bill’.That is a tricky and in my opinion rather slimy way to try to boost your position (why is beyond me)at the expense of others.To me you should identify your targets if you’re going to make these types of comments.Having said my bit I bid you and all OTHERS a good night.

By Coach (Hank Aaron is the Real HR Champion)

August 20, 2007 4:41 AM | Link to this

I’m going to be real plain and straight forward with these numbers so that even the most optimistic can see the truth. Hudson/Smoltz have combined for 326.33 innings and 110 earned runs for an ERA of 3.03 , 76 BB and 148 SO with a differential of 72. The other seven starters : 382.33 innings and 244 earned runs for an ERA of 5.74 , 166 BB and 249 SO for a differential of 83. Read it and weep , people. Anybody can look at those numbers and see that the Braves are way short when it comes to starting pitching. Hudson/Smoltz 3.03 ERA , everybody else 5.74 ERA.

By Coach (Hank Aaron is the Real HR Champion)

August 20, 2007 6:00 AM | Link to this

On another note : The Mets have lost their starting catcher , back up catcher , second baseman , back up second baseman , two outfielders and Pedro has not thrown a pitch…… and yet , they have not missed a beat. That should be a clue for those who have not figured out why the Mets have been in first place for three months.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 8:26 AM | Link to this

Some “quick” observations:

ChrisKlob Yell at you? My on-line computer guru?! Never! :-)

Mark Good advice on scrolling past your “comments”. I’ll be following that advice.

Isn’t it “funny” how people come on here and rip the guy who makes it all possible? DOB* and I have had our “words” but never because I failed to recognize that **he, more than any of us, has the real skinny and gives us the chance to hear it in “real time”. I, for one, am glad he adds his “opinions”, from time to time. It brings him out of the “ivory tower” and makes him one of the denizens.

As for brevity: Imagine Edward Scissor-hands trying to type and you have a sense of me trying to make these “”arthur” fingers do their job. By the time I hunt-peck-and correct, something this long is a “tome” for me.

By flange1

August 20, 2007 8:28 AM | Link to this

Good Morning All,

To all the Naysayers and Doomsday criers,

I am sorry, you cannot convince me the Braves are out of it. We are 1 1/2 games out of the wild card lead which can be erased in 2 games.

We trades for Tex and have the best lineup in the National League. We have the best 1 and 2 starters in the National league.

Yes, 3,4, and 5 have been a bit weak, but all we are asking is a little bit better performance. Cormier had a decent last outing and Carlyle and Chuckie have pitched well in spots this year.

Yes the bullpen is not perfect. Yes Wickman has his struggles, and yes he has dropped a peg in my book for his treatment of DOB, but he is still MUCH better than what we have had in the past. He bust his large rear end every time he goes out there.

To be a fan, you have to believe that your team will improve. All of these negative nellies don’t believe, and I really am not sure they are true fans.

If you don’t want to support the Braves, that is fine, go somewhere else and do something else. I still think this team can go deep into the playoffs.

And no Coach, I HATE kool-aid.

By Will

August 20, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this

Coach, you last two posts are exactly right. This homestand was 3-3 with 3 wins in games either Hudson or Smoltz pitched and then the 3 losses were the back end of the rotation and the Braves never had a chance in any of those 3 losses. That is a perfect example the Braves most glaring error. Its time focus on the Wild Card, that is not out of reach by any means. Its hard to lose 2 games in the standings during a 6 game homestand. Stranger things have happened in division races, but the starting pitching situation is gonna be hard to overcome. Watched the last few innings on mute yestrday, TBS microphones are unbearable. It is ridiculous when you can plain as day hear the crowd yelling stupid comments after every pitch.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 8:41 AM | Link to this

Bob Journalist The phrase wasn’t plagiarism it’s an actual thought that could explain why you’re not familar with it.My referance was to your 12.24 post in particular your referance to ‘others’ and ‘they’re as fake as a three dollar bill’.That is a tricky and in my opinion rather slimy way to try to boost your position (why is beyond me)at the expense of others.To me you should identify your targets if you’re going to make these types of comments

A-ville Ranger I agree! It is very difficult for anyone not to see themselves in some of BobJ’s obtuse commentary. It was BobJ himself that told me, when I first joined the blog, that the “attention span” of some made it necessary to clearly identify the “target” of your remarks. As a result, I don’t think any of my “targets” have any problem identifying themselves.

Both of you have a nice snooze, but I hope you(both) will read this when you arise.

By Bob, Journalist

August 20, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this

A-ville Ranger,

I wasn’t suggesting plagiarism … I certainly assumed the thought was yours … I simply didn’t understand the phrase and that condition continues as you chose not to explain. The phrase seemed to possibly connote giving the appearance of being easily irritated, old-fashioned and glib … and, while I have no quarrel with being so described, it’s not something with which I concur and I didn’t want to react without knowing the intended meaning.

I thought that “others” was a rather well defined collective and while the remark to which you referred might be considered pejorative, it represents my honest opinion of that collective.

I plead guilty to sloppiness, for in actual fact, it’s the behavior of those within the collective rather than the individuals themselves to which the feeling behind the remark is, or should have been, directed … methinks each person has the right to consider themselves to be fans of the game and/or the Braves … and my remarks, regardless of rhetoric, weren’t intended to otherwise suggest. However.intended to suggest that I agree with their self-appraisal.

To my knowledge, only once have I been accused of attempting to further my position at the expense of others … and the one who so did later flew 900 miles to apologize for having inappropriately so done. Currently, I have no position to boost but should such an occasion arise, I can assure you that I would have no such agenda nor would I employ such a strategy.

Indeed, I was simply trying to express the thought that Braves’ fans include pessimists, optimists, and realists … all of whom genuinely support the team and their efforts, with different perspectives and differing levels of passion … and then there are “others” who, at least from my perspective, falsely present themselves as so being … I do believe that they are rather easily and better identified by the tone of their rhetoric than how they might describe themselves … and, relative to their being real fans, again from my perspective, I consider them to be “as fake as a three dollar bill”.

I wasn’t asking anyone to agree or support my opine but I hope and honestly think that ChrisKlob, the one to whom the post was directed, basically understood the feelings I was attempting to convey.

Think what you will …

By KC

August 20, 2007 9:15 AM | Link to this

DOB: I’m not taking any movie recommendations from Grinch until he watches Old School and 40 Year Old Virgin. I’m deeply disappointed in him for not having seen those movies.

Hey… any word on Dotel??

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

“We can’t just keep trading wins and losses and periods of two weeks where we’re 7-7 or 6-6,” Jones said. “We need to start making a move, having homestands where we’re going 5-1, 6-0, not 3-3 and 2-4 and 4-2.”

Yes Chipper. You are correct. 38 left to play. Time is running out. 2 back in the wild card race. 6 back in the division. Winning series aren’t going to do it if we want to win the division. The Braves need to start sweeping series. 5-1 stretches are needed right now.

By Donnie Brasco

August 20, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

Three dollar bill, huh? I call ‘em fugazis!

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

A-vile Ranger I think we have both been “told”. Once again, it is hard for us plebeians to know.

Once—and only once—again, will I attempt to make my point. It is quite easy to “read” BobJ’s “personals” to people such as Salty, NOT that Salty is “unworthy”, he is most worthy, at times. I just think when you “critique”, your targets should be as obvious, so that “they” can respond.

In short: Come down out of the Emperor’s box and join the rest of us as we face the “bear”, in the arena. The sword cuts(and bear-claw “rips”), heal.

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

Check out San Diego’s next 7 series.

There next 20 plus games are brutal.

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

Jo-Jo Reyes was scratched from his last start in Triple-A and could be on his way back to Atlanta.

Reyes struggled in the majors, but he was sharp in two starts for Richmond after being send down on Aug. 3. If he rejoins the rotation, it’d likely be in place of Lance Cormier. NL-only leaguers wouldn’t want him active right away.

Really? Lance pitched great his last time out. He needs another start.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this

Baseball. I agree that the Braves should(and need to) go on a sustained winning streak. Now, if you figure out what we can say on here, to make that happen, count me in!! Otherwise, GO BRAVES!!!

By Will

August 20, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

Efrim, man you are so negative…Just kidding. Your post is bottom line fact. Competitors like Chipper Jones know what its gonna take to come back and its gonna take more then just winning series at this point. No reason to think the Mets arent gonna win most every series down the stretch as well. Wild card is where its at this year.

By Mark

August 20, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this

Efrim, we are in alot of trouble as a team. I know we are 1.5 games out of the Wildcard spot, but I really don’t like our chances this week. We tend to struggle against bad teams. I hope they don’t send Reyes back.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 20, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

Anybody here John Smoltz on Mike and Mike In The Morning this morning? He had a couple of interesting things to say. The first was something DOB touched on in an earlier post, which was that the shoulder isn’t bothering Smoltz but other body parts have been. Smoltz said he was fine though. Smoltz also said that this team can get to the postseason but made it clear that the backend of the rotation has to step up.

Here was the kicker though. Robert, you may want to stop reading now. Smoltz said there is no doubt that he would have left if Bobby Cox was not here. He said if Cox had retired after last season that he would not have stayed in Atlanta. Very interesting.

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this

Will,

It makes me nuts that the Mets just went 5-1 and took care of business against the poor teams. Yet, people on this blog still say they suck. I don’t get it. What did people expect there record to be when the season ended? 100-62? I never thought that. I always felt that they would go 93-69 or 94-68. Guess what? The Mets are going to win 93 games. 70-53 right now. They are going to go 24-15 to finish out. Especially with their last 12 games being against the Marlins and Nats.

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this

Mark,

We are 2 games back in the loss in the wild card. We could be in first at week’s end. Even I’m not that negative. We are better than Philly and pretty damn even with San Diego.

That all said. DO NOT LOSE TONIGHT’S GAME!!!!

By ijonathan

August 20, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this

Howdy,

I’ve taken a few shots lately from fellow bloggers, directly and indirectly, and I’m sure I deserve them. As a relative newcomer to this group, I’ve tended to adopt the “come out guns blazing” approach (both in terms of stats/content and attitude) to break through the clutter. Obviously I hit a few nerves.

DOB, keep up the good work, seriously. Like somebody said above, your real-time updates, inside info and commentary are the lifeblood of us ardent Braves followers. To have this type of access to a MLB beat writer is wonderful.

In closing (for now) I just want to give some explanation as to why the Wickman discussion, and DOB’s part in it, got me fired up last night. Even though DOB is “juggling chainsaws” as Savannah Guy mentioned, I just couldn’t let a comment like “a save is a save” pass unchallenged. NOT because it was technically not a save yesterday (agreed, minor point I shouldn’t have mentioned) but because it suggests that as long as your “closer” comes in and is able to wrap up a 3 or 4-run lead in the ninth, all is good. My post of 9:26 pm last night covers my thoughts so I won’t reiterate. I just think that Wickman’s impact (or lack thereof) on this team can’t simply be measured by his save conversion percentage. It’s all of the other factors mentioned in my earlier post.

Have a good one.

By KC

August 20, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this

Efrim: Yeah, I was pointing out the schedules yesterday, and no doubt… THE TIME IS NOW!!!!!

At Cincinnati (53-69)… We’ll start a 4 game series tonight during which we will not see their ace, Aaron Harang. At St. Louis (58-62)… on Friday for 3 games. They have only one starter with an ERA below 4.98, Adam Wainwright (11-9, 4.01). Wainwright will start in that series, but he’s scheduled to be opposed by Tim Hudson. At Florida (56-67)… for 3 games beginning next Monday (8/27). before heading home to face the Mets at the Ted. METS: vs. San Diego (65-57)… for 3 game set starting Tuesday. The Mets are likely to see both Peavy and Young in that series! vs. LA (63-60)… for 3 game series starting Friday in which they’re likely to see both Penny and Lowe. At Philadelphia (65-57)… for a FOUR game series starting next Monday, before heading to Atlanta. PHILLIES: vs. LA (63-60)… for a 3 game series starting Tuesday. vs. San Diego (65-57)… for a 3 game series starting next Friday. vs. NYM (69-53)… for a FOUR game series starting next Monday.

What I didn’t point out was what you just alluded to… the Padres have the schedule from hell coming up. Over their next 10 games, they play the Mets, Phillies, and D-Backs. Ouch. So if we pull ahead of the Phillies over the next 10 days, we should also be in the WC lead heading into that Mets series next weekend.

The Braves have to take advantage of these next 2 weeks! If they do, they’ll crawl out of this 5-1/5 game hole rather quickly. If they don’t take advantage, the division might soon be out of reach. The Braves need to go AT LEAST 7-3… preferably 8-2 on this road trip against these losing teams.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 20, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

The Braves have to go 7-3 at least on this road trip. If they don’t, their playoff chances won’t be good.

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this

Will,

Not trying to nitpick, Chipper is a very smart baseball guy and I’m sure he’s a competitor (he is a successful major league afterall), but it doesn’t take Chipper’s competitive nature to realize the Braves can’t play .500 ball from here on out and expect to reach the post-season.

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

KC

That Padres schedule stretches even further than that. It gets even worse.

We should be in first in the WC at week’s end. Then again…..

After we swept Pittsburgh I said the same thing. We were 1.5 games back of the Mets before facing the same teams, Reds and Cards, and the Mets were facing the Padres and Dodgers. This time we are 5.5 games back.

Scary.

I am going to be very depressed if we lose tonight.

By steve

August 20, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

The division IS out of reach! Let’s face is, you can’t catch the Mets and when you lose tonight it will be 7 out of the loss column for your team! Who cares if you can beat the Mets…you can’t beat anyone else.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 20, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

Exactly, Shaun. Something else that Smoltz said that was very true. He said the Braves need to reel off about five or six wins in a row but haven’t been able to because of the starting pitching.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

Robert(JITB) Relative to your earlier comments about Smoltz and his remarks about BC: There is no question that the Brave players(to a man)like Bobby, and playing for him. But, as we found out in the military, a “good” guy at the top needs a kick@$$-and-take-names, executive officer, to balance it out. I think Leo was that guy. Now, with two “good” guys, who’s in charge of the asylum—-particularly out in the bullpen?

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

Efrim,

Again, you put way too much stock into one game. Tonight’s game isn’t the last game of the season. Yes, I’m certainly aware the Braves can’t afford to go .500 the rest of the way, but losing tonight will not doom the season just yet. What if they lose tonight then win their next five or six? Chill out with the “they MUST win tonight” stuff, already!

And actually, the Braves have been about even with Philly (they have virtually the same actual record and a similar run differential) and San Diego may very well be better (they have a slightly better record and a pretty significantly better run differential).

By Anders

August 20, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

Will Sensible post at 9:50. If the Mets go 19-20 over their last 39 games the Braves would have to go 24-14 over their last 38 to tie and win the Division based on head to head results. Odds are the Mets will play at least a few games over .500 and you can do the math from there. Turning to the Wild Card seems more reasonable at this point.

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Good to finally hear people say “we need to do this”, “we need to do that”. Little urgency from this blog, I like it. Not that it matters one bit what we say, but I like that people are finally making statement’s like we can’t play .500 baseball any longer.

I can’t believe we are 58-58 since the 7-1 start. We are better than that. Talent wise, we are a lot better than that.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Steve-a-done We care if we can beat the Muts. And don’t try to tell us you don’t.

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

Paladin,

The bullpen has been pretty solid for most of the season. Not sure why they would need a “kick-a—-take-names” guy.

And you talk as if Bobby Cox is a push-over or weak or something. Seems like there is no doubt Cox has control of his team.

By It Over for the Braves

August 20, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

Braves Fan it over….In the last 3 year the wild card winner: 2004=93 win…2005=89 wins…2006=88 wins….In other words the braves has to finish the season 25-13 to win 90 games or 24-14 to win 89 wins…and don’t think the braves can do it. See ya last year….

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Shaun

Chuck James ERA in his last 5 starts: 7.10

Buddy Carlyle’s ERA in his last 5 starts: 6.84

I’m guessing you are one of the people who will be waiting for that 10 game winning streak to end the season. Don’t hold your breath. Can’t lose games when Tim Hudson and John Smoltz are on the mound. Why? The stats above.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

I’m not going to get in an argument with you, Shaun. My God, at my age I can’t commit to something that might take that long.

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

Efrim,

I think you are underestimating San Diego. I don’t know if they’ll finish with a better record than the D-Backs or Braves or some other team, but they have the best run differential in the league. They can play with any team in the league, so I wouldn’t be surprised if they finished the season as the hottest team.

By Lee in S. GA

August 20, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

The Braves have a legit shot at winning the Wild Card. I am not going to say it will take this many wins or they have to win so many out of the next 10 or 12 games. It also depends on how the other contending Wild Card teams do during this period. Now that some are starting to play each other it will become even more interesting.

By steve

August 20, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Paladin, i’m a results oriented kinda guy. I didn’t care in 2000 when the Mets made it to the WS without having to beat Atlanta, and I certainly don’t care now if the Mets win the division without beating Atlanta in a series. Tell me, if you had a choice, would it be to beat the Mets in the season series, or make the playoffs? And on a Met/Brave note, it’s not exactly like you’ve been murdering us all year long. Any of those rubber games could have gone either way. The fact is though that unless the Braves start beating everyone else, it doesn’t matter what they do against the Mets.

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Efrim,

No. I’m one of those people who don’t think the Braves have to win tonight. If they are two or three out with a week left in the season, that will be when it’s time to worry.

There’s a difference between urgency and saying “we have to win tonight.”

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

If the Braves don’t make the playoffs, you need not look further than the #3-#5 spots in the rotation. The bullpen has been good enough and the offense has been great. The inconsistent pitching from the starters is what has plagued us. I guess getting Mike Hampton back as our #5 will help. I think everyone understands now that Chuck is a #4 starter. No better. He doesn’t give you the innings you need. Finding a pitcher to slot in right behind Tim Hudson and John Smoltz for next season would do wonders. A centerfielder and closer wouldn’t hurt either.

By Daybed Wagmoe

August 20, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

DOB - do the braves have control over dotel’s contract for next season, or is he a free agent at the end of 2007?

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

Shaun

There’s a difference between urgency and saying “we have to win tonight.”

Call it whatever you want. We won last night, if we win tonight that is two wins in a row. That is a winning streak. We need more of those with less losing streaks and then you will see the difference in the standings. As far as run differential goes, I agree with you, it definetly matters. San Diego isn’t as good a team as Arizona. Even though every stat says otherwise.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

Steve-a-done The point is: The Braves can’t make it to the dance without beating the Muts. We need those wins, so we’ll be there, and here. Count on it! And as for your whiny-bit about “what might have beens” in our other games: “If ifs and buts were candy and nuts…”

By It Over for the Braves

August 20, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

If the Braves want to win Wild card This the Series left: Cinci= 3-1 Stl = 2-1 Fla = 3-1 Mets = 2-1 Phila= 1-2 Wash = 2-1 Mets = 2-1 Wash = 2-1 Fla = 2-1 Milw = 2-2 Phila= 2-1 Hous = 2-1 Total 25-14

By Will

August 20, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

Shaun, That response to my earlier comment is nitpicking to the core. Its gonna be a tad funny to watch how the “just win series” attitude is gonna start to shift on this blog, espeically when it comes to catching the Mets. The Mets are not gonna be caught without a big win streak or two.

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

Just winning series will get us to 91-71. I’m sorry folks. The Mets are going to win 93 games. Their last 12 are against the Marlins and Nationals. They will go 23-16 the rest of the year. They are consistent enough to do so. They beat up on the bad teams, like we used to do.

By Overlord

August 20, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

Efrim talent is not everything, you need someone to manage all the talent in order to win and to be smart enough to bench people that clearly hurt teams hope and that make all the talent suk.

By Mackey Sasser

August 20, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Steve, why are you here?

By steve

August 20, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

See Paladin, that’s where your wrong. The Braves don’t have to beat the Mets to make the dance. They need at this point to beat the Phillies. The Braves let’s say since they have beaten the Mets take the last 2 series and go 4 & 2..what does that matter if the Braves go 2 and 4 against the Phillies? Give it up, you’re 6 games out of the loss column for 1st place. Concentrate your efforts on the wild card, because that is the only way the Braves can make the playoffs.

By Salty

August 20, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

NOT that Salty is “unworthy”, he is most worthy, at times.

Hmmm…….thank you…..I think….

By Doug

August 20, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

dave, have you heard anything about jojo coming back up. he was scratched last night from his richmond start and brundage said atlanta told him to scratch him because he “might be needed”. got any info on that?

By Lew

August 20, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Efrim-Dude, you still don’t get it. If the Mets won 110 games in a season, they would still suck. They are the Mets. It comes with the territory.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

I hope Braveheart doesn’t wake up with a bad case of post-patron-depression. That stuff is bad! Hell, he’ll be mean enough to slap the teeth out of a rattlesnake’s mouth. :-)

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

Salty That was meant as a compliment, although my backhand has always been better than my forehand. :-)

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

Lew

I agree. Try living in NYC and listening to their fans.

Overlord

It isn’t BC’s fault.

By Lew

August 20, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

I’m sorry. It doesn’t matter if we have more chance of taking the Wild Card as opposed to the Division. We should still strive for the division. Winning is the key to everything. Why, at this point, should we settle for second best? Will we not guarantee at least a WC berth if we win? Going for second best is flipping stupid. The numbers say we aren’t out of it. Why act like we are?

By Steve

August 20, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Mackey, because you guys need a Met fan here to set you right! And by the way, i’d be ashamed if I were you to go by the name of Mackey Sasser. I would have personally chosen Junior Ortiz myself! :-)

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

TalkingChop.com

Chuck James also picked a bad spot for his worst outing of the year. He really had his homerun ball working last night. Perhaps Chuck is going to have to start paying more attention to the batters he’s facing.

That was after Thursday night’s loss. He isn’t working at Lowe’s again this winter, is he?

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

August 20, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

I saw we were at 666 posts, so I though I better ad one!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

That was after Thursday night’s loss. He isn’t working at Lowe’s again this winter, is he?

Humor, from Efrim?! Dang, there’s hope for you yet, dude. The next thing you know Shaun will crack a funny. Nah!

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

Will,

What I was saying is that Chipper’s competitive nature is not what enables him to say what the Braves need to do from here on out. Everybody knows what they need to do. That’s what I meant by nitpicking.

Efrim,

85-89 wins is going to win the NL Wild Card. The Braves must go somewhere between 20-18 and 24-14 to win the Wild Card.

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/statistics/ps_odds.php

By Lew

August 20, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

The one thing we should concentrate on that no one has mentioned is this-WINNING TONIGHT’S GAME. That’s it. That’s all. We shouldn’t concern ourselves over whether or not we win the Divison or The Wild Card. All we should care about is beating the Reds-one game at a time.

I heard an interview this weekend with Chris Young of the D’Backs on XM Home Plate. He was asked if the D’Backs had been scoreboard watching during their recent extremely hot streak. His answer was the best, and really the only one he should have given-“Not really. All we’re concerned with is winning ballgames. If we take care of business, then everything else will fall into place” (now that’s not verbatim, but you get the idea). Smart man on a team that may well win it all-despite what people have thought of them throughout the season.

By Great Moments in Mets History

August 20, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

September 28, 2001, Mets 3 games out of first. October 5, 2001, Mets 6 games out of first.

September 1, 2000, Mets in first place. September 26, 2000, Mets in second, 5 games out of first.

August 20, 1999, Mets in first place. October 4, 1999, Mets in second place, 6.5 games out of first.

September 3, 1990, Mets in first place. October 3, 1990, Mets in second, 4 games out of first.

August 23, 1989, Mets in second, 1.5 games from first. September 27, 1989, 7.5 games out of first.

September 19, 1987, Mets are 1.5 games out of first. October 2, 1987, Mets are 5 games out.

August 22, 1985, Mets are in first. September 27, 1985, Mets are 4.5 games from first.

August 17, 1984, Mets in second, 1.5 games out of first. September 15, 1984, 9.5 games out of first.

Give ‘em enough rope, they’ll hang themselves.

Give ‘em a sword, they’ll fall on it.

Keep hanging around Bravos!

It’s only a matter of time for the Mets!

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

Lew

I agree with you. I can’t root for the Mets to beat the Padres. I just can’t do it. That is insane. I say we just worry about the Braves taking care of their own business against the Reds. Weather looks bad over there. I hope they can get every game in on time. Doubleheader’s suck. Difficult to win both.

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Paladin

Shaun will never crack a funny.

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Shaun

I can’t think every team will play .500 ball for the remainder of the year. 89 games is going to win the wild card. 90 would clinch it.

By Will

August 20, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

I am curious about what numbers say the Braves are still realistically “in” the division race. Bottom line is winning EVERY series would win the Braves the division, but they wont win every series, especially when they are stuck with the 3,4,5 pitching studs going. I think the Braves will win the wild card and could easily beat the Mets in a playoff series. Too many chances have been blown to gain groun on the Mets. Braves sit here today nearly 6 weeks after the all star break and are 3 1/2 more games behind then at the break! Wild Card is the ticket to october.

By Carolina Lady

August 20, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

A little humor

By Anders

August 20, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Lew While reading your 10:56 blog I couldn’t help but picture Gene Hackman in the locker room before the big game in Hoosiers. Maybe you could video yourself reading it to Will, Efrim, Shaun and all the fellas and the Braves could play it at key moments on the big screen?

Followed by the Curly shuffle of course.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

I must tear myself away from the Shaun-Will-Efrim symposium and go do something useful. Maybe they will run out of breath while I am gone. Won’t happen, you say? Well, maybe like the “tiggers” in the now banned “Little African-American Sambo” they will chase each other’s tails until they turn into a pool of…(Make your own ending).

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

August 20, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

I’m surprised there hasn’t been much talk about the possiblity that Jo-Jo Reyes was held out of a start last night, and might come back up here again! Someone mentioned that perhaps Chucky has a sore arm. someone else mentioned it might be to replace Cormier, which really doesn’t make much sense either. Carlyle??? He hasn’t been great, but still not quite the train wreck Chucky was in his last start. Could the wrath of Cox be a reason??? He pulled Chuck before the last home run hitter had circled the bases, so someone else could face the pitcher……

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Who is “we”? I doubt the Braves are going out to “settle” for the Wild Card. They are going out there and trying to win every game they play to try to get into the post-season.

Now if we’re discussing likelihood, of course the Mets are more likely to win the division. But if we are discussing what the Braves should go for, that’s a different story.

If you want to get technical, I don’t think the Braves should “go for” the division title or Wild Card. They should “go for” winning every game they play.

I think that’s the way the teams actually think. I don’t think any team actually goes out and says, “this year we are going for the Wild Card” or even “this year we are going for the division title.” Teams (managers, coaches, players, etc.) got out every day to do their best and try to win every game. This may sound like nitpicking (the word of the day) but I think the cliche “taking it one day at a time” is actually how players, managers and coaches think.

By Braveheart

August 20, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

Saw the AJC had a poll on who was the best pitcher in Atlanta Braves history? Was kind of confused that Warren Spahn was not included until I saw it was an Atlanta Braves poll. I really hate when they do that. It cheapens records and the history of the franchise. The franchise and its history and records should be valued as a whole and not broken up into what city the records and history occurred in. It’s the franchise that is important, not the city.

I’m ranting about something really stupid but that always ticks me off for some reason. I think it causes kids not to learn about Spahn and Sain and pray for rain.

Smoltz & huddie, oh crap, here comes chuck & buddy. Okay, that was not very optimistic but I could not resist.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Anders I was “checking out” when I saw your comments to Lew. If Lew were to have given a Troll Wurlitzer you were in the running. You just blew it!

By Ron Roberts

August 20, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Folks, we’ve all been guilty of doing the “the Braves need to go 7-1” stuff all season long, ad nauseum.

Here are the two truths…

1. Unless they’re playing the Mets, the Braves never do what they need to do to make up ground on the east leader(s)…

2. The teams outside the NL East vying for the wild card (with us) are making it so that we don’t have to have winning homestands or 7-1 stretches to make the playoffs. The wild card’s basically there for us to take because the Padres struggled and nobody else not leading their division has gotten hot except the Cardinals and their division’s so mediocre that the only way a team makes the playoffs is by finishing in first.

Yeah, it’d be ncie to win 3 of 4 in Ciny and win the Cardinals’ series, too, but we’ve presumed monster stretches against weak competition before, all season long, and the Braves almost never live up to those expectations, and because the rest of the NL is so mediocre, it doesn’t hurt us in the wild card chase.

The notion of the Braves winning the division (some people say it like it’s a given - and have done so a long time now) to me, is becoming a pipe dream. Hey, maybe they go on a 9-1 stretch (we’d still trail the Mets by 1.5 games if they just went 5-5 at the same time), but nobody’s seen this team show a capability to do such as of yet.

Focus on the wild card. And don’t get upset if the Braves only go 5-5 against Cincy, St. Louis and the Marlins. Face it, treading water at or around .500 has been good enough to be in the wild card race all along, and will probably keep us within reach of it anyhow. Expecting anything more of the Braves is setting yourself up for a letdown.

That being said… the performance we got from Lance Cormier over the weekend is very encouraging. Imagine this team getting consecutive good outings from Smoltz, Hudson, James, Cormier and Carlyle - that’s actually something possible now, at least, right?

Eh, I’m probably settign myself up for a letdown just for thinking that way.

We’re in it, and that’s half the battle. But Chuck James pitching a game in Cincinnati - s c a r y.

By David O'Brien

August 20, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

To the two questions about Dotel:

I wrote in Sunday paper that he’s supposed to start light throwing today, but that’s the first throwing he will have done since DL’d. So in other words, ain’t gonna be ready next weekend, when he’s eligible to come off the DL. He’s aiming for September.

As for his contract: His deal contains a mutual option for a guaranteed $5.5 million in 2008, but either side can opt out, which allows Dotel to become a free agent if he chooses.

By Braveheart

August 20, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

Berigan I want no part of JoJo. His ERA is more than twice that of Chuck. The braves were 0-5 in his starts even though they averaged 6 runs a game for him. The Braves gave up 6 or more runs in all of his starts. I chose to ignore the possibility of JoJo coming up because then I will stop believing in the postseason if he gets called up, especially if he is replacing Smoltz, Hudson, Chuck or Buddy. This team needs Buddy, Chuck, Smoltz, and Hudson to maintain the winning % pace they have had all season and need Cormier to keep it up. Keep JoJo the heck away from the pitching rubber in the majors until next year.

By Anders

August 20, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

Will If the Braves make the playoffs as a Wild Card they would have to get through the D’Backs first before you can easily beat the Mets. I like the Mets chances of beating the Central winner so we’ll be waiting for you on or about 10/15.

By Will

August 20, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Paladin, sorry dude i dont think i will be running out of breath anytime soon. I feel a great urge to continue to spread my realistic Atlanta Braves views in hope they will catch on.

By KC

August 20, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

BERIGAN:

Unless James is hurt, no one is taking his slot in the rotation. His last 4 starts have been rough, but before that… he was excellent. He had a 2.48 ERA for the month of July, and had a solid ERA (well under 4.00) heading into his last few outings.

They need James to right the ship, and they’ll give him every opportunity to do so.

As for Cormier… no way. He looked great his last time out. And based on what he did last September and this Spring before getting hurt… there is cause for hope that his last outing wasn’t dumb luck.

Carlyle?? Hmmm… maybe, but I doubt it. We’ll see.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 20, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, I think your post was great. A lot of truth in that. Cormier has pitched very well in his two starts back from Richmond. Cox had a quick trigger with him in Philly, which was understandable. He pitched one of the best games by a Braves starter all year Friday. He was just unfortunate in that he had to go up against a guy coming into the game with a 33 consecutive scoreless inning streak and whom just happened to be the defending Cy Young award winner. I think the shine has been taken off Carlyle a little and I wonder if it will be or James to get demoted if Reyes got called up. When I say demoted I mean to the bullpen. The pen could use another lefty and that is where James could come in or Reyes for that matter.

By KC

August 20, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

Is anyone else surprised we haven’t heard any rumors of David Wells joining the Braves?

I’m not advocating it. Just a little surprised by the Braves lack of interest. I guess maybe Redman made them a little gun-shy on retreads. =)

By Will

August 20, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

Anders, You are right i forgot the Mets probably wont even get a chance to play the Braves cause they will lose to the Cubs. I am not remotely delusional about the Braves as a baseball team, but one thing i do know is they are better then the Mets in a playoff series, period. Not even debatable, especially with the results against the Mets this year.

By KC

August 20, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Robert (Justice Is The Best):

I don’t think James will be ousted from the rotation. But if there were a better option, he would probably be an asset in the pen. He pitched very well there last year before moving to the rotation. However, he wouldn’t be an asset as a lefty, since he’s one of those lefties that does better against right-handed hitters.

By Braves20

August 20, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Happy Monday all. If we’re sitting where we’re sitting now a week from today, we can pretty much start wondering when Hampton and Gonzales will return next season and who we are going to trade Tex for at the break next year. Our foes are playing some fairly tough competition, albeit at home while we go on the road with all our bats except Edgar against two clubs with pretty weak pitching staffs. Need to make up some ground this week.

By Vol

August 20, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

What the heck is a mutual option? Isn’t that the same as no option/contract whatsoever if either side can opt out?

I guess the paperwork’s all done. Can’t think of any purpose.

By Anders

August 20, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

Will Another pulitzer prize well thought out response - Thanks.

BTW - I looked delusional up in Webster’s and it said - adj See Will.

By bill

August 20, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

Efrim, you couldn’t have said it better. The downfall of the Braves will be because of 3-4-5 starters. I am not a fan of C. James. I’d rather have Jo Jo Reyes start. At least he has more than 2 pitches. I’m not concerned with the stat’s on Jo Jo. I have no confidence in James. Hope they get rid of him this off season.

By Anders

August 20, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

KC The equipment manager has lobbied against the Braves getting Wells. Between Wickman and Bobby Cox they’re fresh out of size 48 game pants.

By ncscoots

August 20, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for that Dotel tidbit. I kept thinking it was a team option, for some reason. Might not matter either way, I guess, at $5MM+; that seems a little stiff.

By Will

August 20, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

Anders, I am glad you are gonna start being an a***** now too, thats great news. Mets took the division last year, but seriously other then that when is the last time the Braves did not dominate the Mets?

By Braveheart

August 20, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

KC I would grab Wells in a heartbeat if I were the Braves. What do they have to lose? Wells can’t be any worse than the 4-21 we have got from the fifth spot all year. And I don’t really want to hear that he is too much of a loudmouth that does not fit into the Braves way of doing things. Time to mix it up. Rock the boat. Go for broke. WS champs or bust. We ain’t going anywhere if the fifth starters are allowed to continue the 4-21 trend of the fifths. Last time I checked that loudmouth Justice hit maybe the biggest home run in the history of the franchise.

By KC

August 20, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Braves20:

I half agree with you. I agree that the Braves must take advantage of this upcoming stretch to have a good chance in the east. But you said “a week from today”, while I’d give it 2 weeks.

There’s a 10 game stretch here where the schedule is highly favorable to the Braves, while our competitors play a very tough schedule. Including a 4 game Mets-Phillies head-2-head series up in Phili. And after this 10 day stretch, we’ll play 3 games against the Mets at the Ted. So I would say, let’s look at where we are 2 weeks from today.

I think we will gain significant ground in the east over these next couple weeks. But even if we don’t, we’ll still be right in the thick of the Wild Card race. So I think start-thinking-about-next-year is a bit of an overstatement.

By Will

August 20, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

Anders, By the way i seem to remember a few weeks ago that most of the people who hate me on here were telling you to go to hell everyday and i defended talking baseball with fans of all kinds. You are still a Mets fan on a Braves blog, i do agree with most on here no matter what i think about the Braves i freaking hate the Mets.

By KC

August 20, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

Anders: Just keep Wickman and Wells on opposite sides of the charter jet, and everything should be fine. =)

Vol: Yeah, there doesn’t seem to be much point in a mutual option. I guess it makes things a bit easier when the time comes if both sides want to keep the arrangement. But how often are mutual arrangements exercised? Can’t be very often… because either the player wants more money for great performance, or the team wants to pay less.

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

bill,

Did you know Chuck James has a better ERA than Jason Marquis, Paul Byrd, Tim Wakefield, Jeremy Bonderman, Jon Garland, Livan Hernandez, Barry Zito, Steve Trachsel?

Expectations for James are obviously too high for some of you. Do you really think there are all that many relatively cheap pitchers out there better than Chuck James that the Braves could plug into the third or fourth slots in the rotation?

I’m not a fan of James…as a number one or two starter, but anything after that he’s okay.

By DAP

August 20, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

bill i understand you not having much confidence in chuck james right now, although hes solid most of the time (if only for 6 innings).

but, i think you are being unreasonable to want to get rid of him (which isnt going to happen anyways)

just keep in mind that in 43 starts (which is just a little longer than a full major league season) he is 20-13. 20-13, bill thats a pretty good first full year in the majors for the young pitcher. hes also got an ERA under 4.

chuck james is not going anywhere, and i believe he will be a very good pitcher for atlanta for quite awhile.

By ncscoots

August 20, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Is anyone else surprised we haven’t heard any rumors of David Wells joining the Braves?

No. Having a pulse is currently Wells’ most attractive feature as a pitcher. Might need a little more weaponry than that.

Paladin, I’ll have to disagree on a characterization of Bob as obtuse. Some may think he is obfuscatory (I’m not one of them), but “obtuse” is factually indefensible, LOL!

By TampaBrave

August 20, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

I saw the guys from ESPN talking about the Diamondbacks and they brought up the argument regarding stats and future performance. Steve Phillips’ words were sic “I don’t care what stats say, my eyes tell me this team is a World Series contender”. Like I said, there are too many dynamics going on to rely on stats.

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

Are you serious when you say Wells can’t be any worse than any other possibility at the number five spot in the rotation?

Wells’s ERA, when you take into account league and ballpark is 26 percent below the league average. Batters hit .322 AVG/.367 OBP/.510 SLG off him this season. Basically every hitter is an Eric Byrnes type hitter against him.

By Salty

August 20, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Your Spahn/Sain reference…you suggesting we’re at “Smoltz and Hud…and 3 days of mud?” :-{

Braves20 If the Braves are in the same position in a week, we’re still 1.5 out in the WC…not that being closer in the East wouldn’t be good thing. KC’s 2-weeks summary defines the possibilities quite well.

By Anders

August 20, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

Will All I did was make the point that the Braves would have to go through the D’Backs to get the chance to beat the Mets in the playoffs and you went all smack on the Mets. The Mets are right with the D’Backs for the best record in the NL so I think a little credit should be given to them regardless of how many times the Braves have beaten them. If you feel how the Braves dominated the Mets will automatically translate to how they would fare in the playoffs you should use the same logic for the D’backs against the Braves. That’s all I was saying.

By JasonInMaine

August 20, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

DOB: I am looking forward to your ESPN “Face of the Franchise” vote!

By Scalp 'Em Braves

August 20, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

KC:

In order to get Grinch to watch the movies you mentioned, you’re going to have to tear him away from “Bridget the Midget”, “Backdoor to The Future”, and/or “The Adventures of UGA” (Episode - Never Met a Leg That Wasn’t Humpable”).

By TampaBrave

August 20, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

DAP,

I hope I’m wrong but unless Chuck finds another pitch and learns to master the ones he already has, he will soon become mediocre. The league has a funny way of catching up to those of average talent.

By Anders

August 20, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave Last week Steve Phillips also said neither the Mets or Yankees will make the playoffs this year. How’s that looking for him? He also said the Mets wouldn’t make it last year. Nice pick. His premise is, if you say enough different things some of them are bound to come true.

By Braveheart

August 20, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I understand Wells ain’t on top of his game right now. His ERA+ may be 26 percent less than average.

BUT here are the ERA+ stats for the Braves fifth starters: Davies, 26% less; Cormier, 57% less; Redman, 63% less; JoJo, 51% less, Larew, 44% less.

As of July 16, David Well’s ERA was 4.16. Then he got killed ion his last 4 starts. But as of July 16, the Padres were 9-9 when he started..

His most comparable ERA+ with the Braves is Kyle Davies. The Braves were 7-10 in Kyle’s starts.

Davies is no longer here. We gotta get someone marginal to at least give us a chance to win half of the remaining 6-8 starts of the fifth starters. I have much more faith in Wells than in Cormier to get that done.

In the starts of the other guys, the Braves are 3-14. Wells can’t possibly do worse than that. His ERA+ when he starts is actually much better than all other guys the Braves throw out there. His 9-13 mark when he pitches is a helluva lot better than 3-14.

It ain’t perfect but that 3-14 record and that 4-21 record in the starts of the fifths is sinking this battleship.

Shaun, compare it to Derek Lowe in 2004 and his 5.40 ERA and ERA+ of 90.

The Red Sox were still able to go 13-12 in his starts with an offense with a similar OPS+ as the 2007 Braves.

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave,

Oh, if they get into the playoffs, no doubt they are a World Series contender. Question is will their luck start to run out before the season does. I know winning close or one-run games isn’t all luck but luck is certainly a factor. And the D-Backs have won a ridiculous amount of close games. I think it’s very reasonable to assume without luck they certainly wouldn’t be leading the division and have the best record in the league. They may be a playoff team without luck but I don’t know if they’d be this good without luck.

(Luck can also equal breaks, the ball bouncing the right way, good fortune, etc. if you are uncomfortable with the term “luck”.)

By Braveheart

August 20, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave Last week Steve Phillips also said neither the Mets or Yankees will make the playoffs this year. How’s that looking for him? He also said the Mets wouldn’t make it last year. Nice pick. His premise is, if you say enough different things some of them are bound to come true.

Tampabrave Steve Phillips also once thought it was a good idea to sign Mo Vaughn and to sleep with his secretary.

By TampaBrave

August 20, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Sorry Shaun,

Winning 1 run games says a lot about a team, the least being luck. It says to me that they win the tough ones, whether its clutch pitching, hitting or defense. You need to turn the WOPR off on this one.

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

Good analysis. I do think Wells is probably capable of pitching better than he did this season, but I don’t know how much better. He’s no spring chicken any longer and he’s not exactly Roger Clemens physically.

Also, I know 9 starts isn’t a lot but if he got killed in those starts could that mean he was injured? Could it mean that he only had 18 starts in him this season and that was it for his career?

Also, would it be worth signing Wells to get maybe an extra win or two or maybe no extra wins? Guess it depends on how much money he would ask for and how much the Braves want to pay per extra win.

My guess is the Braves know Wells isn’t at all likely to make any significant difference so why use up any extra payroll on him? There’s a chance he could hurt them worse than someone like Cormier and he’s almost certainly not going to pitch all that much better.

I say move Villarreal into the rotation for the final month, if he can go 6 innings.

By Stu

August 20, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

“The Diamondbacks’ run differential, quite simply, is misleading. Between July 1 and Aug. 2, the D-Backs displayed a bizarre knack for getting blown out in the final game of a series. They suffered four such defeats, getting outscored, 48-1 — and distorting their differential.” - from Ken Rosenthal today.

By DAP

August 20, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

tampa agreed on chucky…a third pitch is a must, and ive thought so since the off season. i was very happy to hear he was working on a slider during spring training, but what happend to it? i would really like to ask maybe roger mcdowell if he ever uses the slider and how it is. however, a third pitch, yes, is very important to him.

however, my point remains. he is 20-13 in his career on just two pitches, and i think a new pitch will be the #1 priority for him and mcdowell this off season.

i believe he WILL learn another pitch, and will continue to be a valuable starter for atlanta. afterall, he only has just over a year’s worth of starts under his belt.

one thing i really wonder though…what will the third pitch be? i personally think a big curve he could throw for strikes would be best. it would seem to go with his current arsenal better, to me. a 90mph slider isnt really that scary, unless its got big time movement. anyways, thats up to james and the coaches to figure out.

By A-ville Ranger

August 20, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

It’s reported Mike Vick has excepted a plea deal.Good riddance to bad trash and regardless of what Mr Bradley and others may think Vick is very bad trash.I almost never use this language and I use it here to make a point of how I feel about his actions.There should be no place in our society for these sociopathic sadist. GO BET !! GO BROWNY!! you’re great dogs and good buddies,this is for you.

By TampaBrave

August 20, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

Yankees and Mets not making the playoffs was not an unrealistic assessment at the time. The Yanks have a tough schedule and the Braves and Phils look like better teams that the Mets right now.

I think the DBacks got a taste of winning and liked it. They are the team to beat in the NL. No stat is going to convince me otherwise. If they lose the West, Shaun can rub my nose in statistical s**(the smelliest batch), but save a big injury, they will win the west.

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave,

If winning one-run games doesn’t have a luck factor (or something other than an innate ability to win one-run games), why isn’t it repeatable? Why don’t teams that win a high amount of one-run games from one half a season, usually continue winning one-run games either the second half or the next season?

And how do you explain some bad teams that perform very well in close games? For example the 2003 Tigers, regarded as one of the worst teams in history, won over half their one-run games. Are you telling me they just knew how to win the tough ones and luck wasn’t a factor?

I certainly agree it’s not all luck but luck is a factor. When a team wins as many one-run games as the D-Backs, you have to think a portion of those could very well have gone the other way due to something other than player ability or mental toughness or clutch play or a manager’s decisions.

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

The D-Backs aren’t as good as they have played. I see them as a team ripe for the picking in the postseason. If the Braves won the Wild Card, I would like our chances in a five game series with them.

Webb vs. Smoltz Davis vs. Hudson Hernandez vs. James

We would take that series. At least I like to think we would take it.

Anyways, I see lots of thunderstorms for the game tonight. DOB, is there a chance the game gets rained out?

By Chase

August 20, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

ANDERS and other METS FANS

I wouldn’t get too cocky just yet! Sure you added to your lead while playing the BUCS and NATS at the same time the Braves played the D-BACKS…..

BUT You still have 7 games with Philly to play not to mention the Long stretch where you play SD and LA then Philly then ATL!

Pretty tough stretch while the Braves play Cincy, Stl, and Fla

Sure you still have to go out and win those games but the pitching match-ups are far more favorable

Out of the Next 6 games the MUTS will face YOUNG, PEAVY, LOWE, and PENNY…Pretty tough!

If the Braves win their next 2 and the Mets lose their next 2 everyone will be singing a different tune! And don’t discount INJURIES… they could catch up to the METS.

Oh and I forget which MET fan was bragging about having to play the MARLINS two series at the end but that may not be so easy judging by how the MUTS have played them this year!

Bottom Line, 38 to go, DON’t GO HANGING YOUR BANNER YET MUTS FANS!

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

Stu,

It’s not their blowouts that I’m looking at. It’s their close games. And you have to figure at least a few of those close games could easily have turned the other way had the ball bounced a certain way, a player had an extra Wheatie or didn’t have that one extra Wheatie or a player tied his shoe funny or the grounds keeper raked the field with his left hand instead of his right…

If anything the blowouts support the argument that the D-Backs aren’t as good as their record indicates.

By KC

August 20, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

Scalp Em’: Excellent point.

Speaking of movies… I saw Superbad last night. Very funny stuff! Definitely recommended (for adults).

By TampaBrave

August 20, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Found this picture of Shaun and talking to his girlfriend on the web. :)

*www.features.engadget.com/2004/10/23/movie-gadget-friday-the-w-o-p-r-from-wargames/

all good fun.

By Ron Roberts

August 20, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Uh, I’m sorry, but the good teams win the close games. The blowouts aren’t all that frequent… most games are decided by 3 runs or less, I’d bet.

Arizona’s a good, young team.

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave,

You really think the D-Backs are winning because they got a taste of winning and liked it? I guess the Royals and D-Rays don’t win because they haven’t gotten a taste. Or they have and just didn’t like it.

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

Do they?

Red Sox - 18-18 in one-run games.

Yankees - 11-15 in one-run games.

Phillies - 8-19 in one-run games.

Cubs - 16-19 in one-run games.

Padres - 20-21 in one-run games.

All of these teams have either punched their ticked to the playoffs or have a decent shot at the playoffs, so I’d consider all of them good teams.

By Robert

August 20, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

This Chuck James arguement is getting stupid.

Chuck James is a telented young pitcher. The main differences between this year and last year are that he is giving up more hits, and that his K/BB ratio is a little lower.

Guess what folks. The league is making (has made) somea adjustments to him.

He’ll now have to make some adjustments of his own. Adjustments -as in tweaks to the way he approaches certain hitters and certain situations.

This is a far different thing than having to make the major overhaul of developing command and/or learning how to pitch as opposed to just throwing the ball (which is where Kyle Davies is at)

Chuck James is a serviceable third starter, who has a great chance of developing into a nice long-term number two man in a solid rotation. He is nothing like Kyle Davies.

The only thing wrong with Chuck James is his idiot manager.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

NcScoots I consider my choice of words corrected by the Master. Thank you, sir. Duly noted. :-)

What happened to the warm ‘n’ fuzzy Anders, who realizing he was on a Brave’s blog, use to keep his Mut nuzzlin’ to a minimum? Speaking only for myself, Anders, I think you have worn out your welcome.

I personally think the Braves need Wells like a near-terminal-case of jock-itch.

By TampaBrave

August 20, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Shaun, Your credibility is being stained on this one. As for your extra wheatie scenario, the follwoing comes to mind.

If my aunt had nads, I’d have an cousin who was adopted.

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Shaun

You really think the D-Backs are winning because they got a taste of winning and liked it? I guess the Royals and D-Rays don’t win because they haven’t gotten a taste. Or they have and just didn’t like it.

It’s called confidence. The D-Backs keep winning, therefore their confidence is booming now. Winning streaks will do that. After the Pittsburgh sweep the Braves had it, but lost it after going 2-5 against the Reds and Cardinals. That was the turning point of the season for the Braves. You need not look further.

By A-ville Ranger

August 20, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

Ok baseball only post.The poll on who we like for the Cy has Hudson way out front.Hudson is my guy but not for the Cy.Granted there’s lots of time and he’s pitching great so who knows ? If the vote was today however it goes 1—Penny—-2—Webb (closing fast)—-3—Peavy—-4—Hudson.

By Shaun

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

TampaBrave,

Not sure how the aunt having nads thing applies. It’s not an if scenario. I’m saying small things that have nothing to do with baseball abilities do affect the outcome of one-run and possibly most close games. It’s not if something happens, then a team wins or losses a close game; it’s some things (unrelated to baseball) do happen to affect the outcome of close game.

These types of things happen in all games but they are more likely to be the difference between a win and a loss in a close game.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

I’m sory that the luck-of-the-draw put my comments so close to Robert’s. I prefer to distance myself from both he and his comments. And speaking of idiot managers, Robere, do you have one?

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

August 20, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

Here is what I will say about Chuck James. As crazy as it sounds, he should keep the ball up instead of down. It seems when keeps the ball down he gets hammered. I remember Joe Simpson and Don Sutton talking about it last year. They both said they had never seen a pitcher who got hit so hard when he kept the ball down in the zone. Maybe he should be told to throw it up in the zone and he will be successful. Sure, it is against the norm and is usually a dangerous way to pitch but James may be an anomaly.

By Lew

August 20, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

Anders-Nyuk, nyuk. Shaun-Whatever. Not today.

By Bob, Journalist

August 20, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Most Worthy NaCly, … is this one of the times? Seriously, I do agree with Paladin that you are most worthy … though I’m unaware of what might have prompted his “at times” appositive.

My expectations are that further explanation is unnecessary … tis just a personal note to one who, at all times, is most worthy!

Upon reflection, I can see where the “A-Ville Ranger might have felt that my comments to ChrisKlob were directed to him as I had begun my comments with something like “don’t play your detractors no nevermind” … which was intended as a humorous appositive to the compliment I was trying to convey to Chris … one of my customary deployments of such language abuse.

It actually wasn’t until after the fact, when the “Ranger” first responded to me, that I realized it was he who was then engaged in dialog with Chris when I made my post. In truth, I have yet to read the “Chrisklob … A-Ville Ranger” thread.

Rather, my comments were actually triggered by a Braveheart post complimenting Chris and the part addressed by the “ranger” was simply stating what I believe to be William Wallace’s notion that good fans are good fans, regardless of whether they be optimists, pessimists or realists … if anything, its influence was intended to be unifying and/or conciliatory rather than antagonistic and/or disruptive.

I consider A-Ville Ranger, Shaun, Nathan, and the vast majority of our active bloggers … each with perhaps their own unique perspective, to be in the group of what I consider to be good fans.

I certainly wasn’t attempting to “critique” anyone though I do think the “others” referenced in the post were adequately defined and I hope my position regarding their attitude/behavior is clear as I have addressed it on more than one occasion.

I can also accept obfuscatory … but beauty is in the mind’s eye of the beholder … I try to say what I mean, at times.

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

Do winning streaks cause confidence or does talent lead to winning streaks?

Right after one of the Braves’ longest winning streaks of the season, in May, they lost a game to Pittsburgh and three out of four to Washington.

Right after they won five in a row in June, they lost three in a row to Florida and LA.

Why didn’t they have confidence after a winning streak?

Why in the world did the Braves struggle right after their highest points in the season?

Why didn’t they use their confidence boost they got in Pittsburgh to win the Cardinals and Reds series?

By DAP

August 20, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

robert you know all about getting stupid. youve been there for quite awhile.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

BobJ ‘Nuff said.

Salty I stand by my earlier “explanation” and I will even jump over the net to shake your hand. CALL 911! :-)

By ncscoots

August 20, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

No, sirree, Bob…obfuscatory to some is simple elegance to others, say I. My own self, I wouldn’t want it any other way! :-)

By Anders

August 20, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

Paladin What have I said that’s so offensive? The Mets are 5 or 6 games up with less than 40 to play. realistically the Braves are looking at a wild card or nothing. That’s common sense. Do you really think the Braves will play 10 or more games above .500 and the Mets will play a game under .500? I certainly don’t. I told you weeks ago that if the Mets middle of the order starts to hit even a little they would pull away. Guess what’s happened? They’re hitting. Look at Beltran, Alou and Wright the last 10 games or so. This is with Delgado hurt and outfielder’s playing first and our 4th string catcher behind the plate.

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

Efrim and TampaBrave,

Okay, I know this may be uncomfortable but sometimes the most talent, most mentally tough, best managed teams still do not win. Most of the time they do, but there are quite a few times they don’t. Sometimes the outcome of a baseball game depends on things besides talent, mental toughness, good managing, good coaching. Sometimes it depends on things like a batted ball bouncing over the fence for a ground-rule double instead of staying in the park for a conventional double or a clump of dirt or a pebble on the field or any number of minuscule things.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Anders When you talk like that, it is not offensive. But, with all your “numbers”, the Braves are not mathematically eliminated from anything and we just want them to win every series, particularly against “your” team, and let those old chips fall where they may!

By TampaBrave

August 20, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

there is talent on every team, even the devil rays. How many times have you seen stories about young teams requiring a seasoned vet, someone who had been to the playoffs helping teach the young players how to win. Off hand, I cite TP and SB from the 91 braves, whom everyone acknowledges their contribution. Once they gained the confidence, they felt like they should win every game. Your analysis on this one holds little water. You say that a market correction will bring the DBAcks back to earth. The team I just saw looks like a World Series team to me, that is, if the Braves don’t make the playoffs. Then its lights out for the DBacks.

By Ron Roberts

August 20, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Shaun, the good teams do win the close games. You cited teams at or near .500 in 1-run games; but I’ll let ya dig further and broaden that to games decided by 3 runs or less and 2 runs or less (as I stated).

Write back!

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

O-B-F-U-S-C-A-T-O-R-Y It rolls off the tongue and lands with a thud. :-)

By ncscoots

August 20, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

I’ll admit confusion is a semi-regular state of affairs for me, but…I’m confused.

Several posters mention that the next couple of weeks will tell the tale of the Braves season. But, weren’t the Braves “done” in July? “Toast” in June? “Finished” in May? “Over” after the last homestand? Or did I just imagine those posts (always a possibility)? How can the two positions be reconciled?

I’m just funnin’. Trying to show the fallacy of prophesying, I guess. For a team that was “toast”, “done”, “finished” and “over”, they’re one series sweep away from a September fight-to-the-death (yes, yes, yes, .500 since whenever, I know, just pointing out the situation exists, not foretelling it will happen).

I don’t know about 26-14, or 23-15, or whatever combinations of Braves wins and opposition losses it will take to do this, that, or the other. But somehow I doubt that there’s one of those Major League standups in the locker room from which the players rip a section each night, LOL.

One game at a time, one win at a time.

By bravesfan

August 20, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

Saw Bill Shanks wrote this on thebravesshow.com. Maybe we will get Jake Peavy think of Hudson, Peavy, and Smoltz that would be good.

With his recent comments, the Braves will inquire about Peavy. I’m not sure how much it will take, but it will be significant. I can tell you that Jake Peavy does want to be a Brave. He’s always wanted to be a Brave.

Bonderman is a pitcher that will be interesting this winter. The Tigers would be nuts not to want Renteria, and with his connection to Jim Leyland it makes a lot of sense.

So I think the Braves will look into both situations this winter.

By TampaBrave

August 20, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

Shaun

You keep using luck as the basis for your case. Yes those things happen, but each team gets their share of good bounces and bad ones. You state the obvious. The point here is I don’t believe the DBacks stats are indicative of how good they are. The only one that matters is wins and Losses. They have gelled and have kicked into another gear. I don’t, save an injury, expect a market correction on them. The great thing about this is that after the dbacks do win their division, you will use some other stats to show why it happened and abandon your current line.

By Ron Roberts

August 20, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

FYI, Shaun… I perused through Baseball-Reference.com for these figures.

In 1-run games…

Anaheim 17-13

Cleveland 22-18

Detroit 20-15

Milwaukee 19-15

NY Mets 16-8

Seattle 21-17

Games Decided by 4 runs or fewer…

Anaheim 53-37

Boston 48-37 (a team you cited)

Cleveland 50-43

Detroit 50-40

Milwaukee 48-43

NY Mets 46-42

Philadelphia 45-43 (a team you cited)

San Diego 45-41 (a team you cited)

Seattle 51-42

I tend to think the good teams, more often than not, do run the close games. I’ve cited where that seems to be the case - more often than not.

By Robert

August 20, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

Shaun - you said - “Right after one of the Braves’ longest winning streaks of the season, in May, they lost a game to Pittsburgh and three out of four to Washington.

Right after they won five in a row in June, they lost three in a row to Florida and LA.

Why didn’t they have confidence after a winning streak?

Why in the world did the Braves struggle right after their highest points in the season?

Why didn’t they use their confidence boost they got in Pittsburgh to win the Cardinals and Reds series? “

Answer to all those is simple -

Because their manager is a mental midget

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

Obviously the closer the game, the more likely fluke things are going to affect the outcome. The closer the game, the more likely the worse team is going to win because the game is more likely to turn on a fluke play.

TampaBrave,

What does “knowing how to win” mean? All I know is it’s putting runs on the scoreboard on offense and keeping them off on defense. I’ll take baseball ability over anything else any day.

Yeah, I’m sure the D-Rays losing has nothing to do with them being first in runs allowed and fourth in fewest runs scored. It’s all because they don’t know how to win and nothing to do with a mediocre OBP or SLG or the most HR allowed in the league.

By Efrim

August 20, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Bravesfan

Peavy will cost Francouer and then some.

By Salty

August 20, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

So…how many obtuse obfuscators inhabit this blog?!?

By bill

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

Shawn- I’m not concerned with other players ERA. They can be misleading. Alot of those players you listed can go deep into the game. James averages about 5 inning’s per games. That’s why the pen is worn out. DAP- I wouldn’t be so sure that he will remain a Brave. I want him to suceed but I just don’t see it happening. There will probably be at least two new starters next season, three if Hampton doesn’t recover.

By Anders

August 20, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Paladin I don’t blame you for hoping for that. I would do the same and have done that for years while chasing your team. Back when the Braves were riding the high from the trading deadline deals I tried to explain to DOB that it’s hard catch a team this late in the season when they have their fist on your chin like a boxer. You can get as far as their elbow but you never seem like you can get to their chin. That’s how it’s been for Mets fans against the Braves for many years. You get within 3 games and then fade back to 5 and so on. You guys are just experiencing it from the other side for a change. I believe DOB’s reponse was - Whatever. Guess what? You’re in the middle of Whatever.

I’m not saying it’s impossible for the Braves to catch the Mets just that it’s unlikely. The wild card on the other hand is well within their grasp.

By ObiWanKobe

August 20, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

Dave, Just felt I needed to say “Thanks” for the blog. I enjoy all of the information. It seems that some here take what you do for granted. So again, “thank you”

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

bravesfan I think either of those pitchers would fit nicely in next year’s rotation, but I’m afraid it will take a front-liner and one or two prospects. Depending upon who they are, it still might be “doable”. But, if you raid the refrigerator/larder too many times, you end up eating Frosty Flakes out of the box.

By ncscoots

August 20, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

Salty, I count one. That would be, well, I. :-)

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

Salty et al Let’s don’t get into a “who can use the biggest word” contest until SJA returns. The ones he uses—that are “printable”—are impressive. :-)

By Shaun

August 20, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave,

My point is, yes, the DBacks stats are NOT indicative of how good they are, to a certain degree. But it’s hard to imagine them being as good as they are without some luck. I can easily see four or five are their 20 some odd one-run wins being a result of luck, which would push them down to the Padres’ level.

Ron Roberts,

Close is a relative term. I don’t really consider 4 runs close. The major league average amount of runs scored is between four and five runs a game. And for the purposes of the D-Backs, it’s clear one-run games are a major reason why they are where they are. And my stance is that at least a few of those one-run wins are a result of things outside of baseball ability, baseball management, desire, mental toughness, etc.

By Overlord

August 20, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Efrim if it aint bobby……what is the reason for underachieving? BAD LUCK? come on, give me a break, we all know how many games have been lost because of bad decisions made by bobby. Try looking at the other side of the coin… how many games can you say the braves have won because of masterful managing? i cant remember a single one. I cant think of a manager that would let a guy like AJ play so many games and having a really good option B (harris).

I dont think pitching has been well managed either…… if that was the case there wouldnt be so many angry bloggers…….. there will always be angry people that hate cox, but not so many if things were done better.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

Anders Whatever.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

I’ve got a contest for us. Let’s count how many times that Shaun(the Energizer Bunny who goes on and on and on)uses “My point is…” Get out your calculators and GO!

By DarthShaquille

August 20, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

ObiWan,

I should take your brown nose and slice it off with my light saber for such excessive sucking up with the emperor.

Master, the force tells me there should be a new blog? I await your orders

By TampaBrave

August 20, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

Did you also count how many losses were the result of bad luck? Didn’t think so. Nice one way ANALysis.

Was that a picture from high school?

By Anders

August 20, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Paladin Excellent!!

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

DarthShaquille “Brown nose” and “sucking up”? Is that mixed metaphors or merely artistic license? I,too, vote for a new blog. Even old Firefox is gettin’ bogged down.

By Paladin

August 20, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOG IS UP

By A-ville Ranger

August 20, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

Bob Journalist Let me guess you write disclaimers for a drug company ? Just kidding,no mas…later all.

By TampaBrave

August 20, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

Not that anyone cares, but yesterday I celebrated my 44th b-day with the family so I wasn’t on much. But I wanted to apologize about the RON incidents. At the time, I thought it to be a good idea to challenge his assertions, being so inaccurate, but I soon found myself spiraling through time warp to find the missing link. Hard as I tried, I couldn’t bring him back to the future: so there he remains. I left him a lighter, so he has either burned himself beyond recognition or is eating a well cooked brontosaurus burger. Who knows. I know how annoying it can be to keep reading that garbage. Again, I counterpunched when I should rope-a-doped and won on style points.

By Overlord

August 20, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this

Shaun I think 5 out of the 20 wins (not exact numbers) is way to high….. i dont think 25% of a team wins could be a result of good luck, they treated the braves with no respect…. i didnt see much of the luck factor when the kicked our butt in 2 different series. They are doing a very good job on the field. They have less talent than we do, but they are doing the little things that takes to be champs……. we dont.

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

August 20, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

You said to TampaBrave….

TampaBrave, What does “knowing how to win” mean? All I know is it’s putting runs on the scoreboard on offense and keeping them off on defense. I’ll take baseball ability over anything else any day.

Yeah, I’m sure the D-Rays losing has nothing to do with them being first in runs allowed and fourth in fewest runs scored. It’s all because they don’t know how to win and nothing to do with a mediocre OBP or SLG or the most HR allowed in the league.

Sounds to me you are contradicting yourself. Read your last paragraph, then this line from the earlier one… you say ….* I’ll take baseball ability over anything else any day.*

Well, Tampa has about as much talent as ANY team in either league! Which 2nd baseman has more pure talent, B.J. Upton , or Kelly Johnson? Which left fielder(s) have more talent, Willie Harris, Matt Diaz, or Carl Crawford??? Right now, who would you rather have as your Center fielder, Delmon Young or that guy we have hitting about 75 points lower than Young’s .290??? If it was July 30th, who would you say was more talented a 1st baseman, Scott Thorman, or Carlos Pena?(.265 27 79)Brendan Harris is no Edgar, but still 295 8 46 are pretty good numbers.

James Shields while having to deal with 9 hitters every start is 9-8 4.18 ERA, with 154 K’s. Scott Kazmir is 9-7 with a 3.44 ERA with 168 K’s Yet, they are 47-76, 29 games under .500!!!

I imagine in the next year or two, they will be a decent team, but right now, even with all the talent in the world, they are still a last place team, with the worst record in baseball…..

By Robert

August 20, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

“how many games can you say the braves have won because of masterful managing?”

None in the past 17 years.