Braves

By BravesFanInRockies

September 21, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Nice blog, CR. It ain’t over ‘til it’s over, right?

Now here’s a stat that’ll loosen your dentures. Andruw’s OPS is .733 — 11 points higher than … Juan Pierre’s. I know some folks in these quarters wanted the Braves to sign Mr. Pierre last off-season, but who could have imagined he would put up number as “lofty” as Andruw’s — or that Andruw’s would fall so quickly?

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

I’ll take my usual position on the back pew. Supine.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

You’re such a rebel in the back pew. I bet you don’t even get up for pregnant ladies either right?

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Only if I made them that way.

By ACB

September 21, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Paladin, Dude, make sure they don’t mistake you for the guest of honor at the 5 o’clock funeral.

Oh, wait. My bad. They’re just burrying Tom Glavine’s dead arm. I would still look alive and kicking, though. They might need extra balast.

By TampaBrave

September 21, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

Calm down, I simply made a broad statement to use the Devil rays to fill our holes. They are a glorified AAA team who has a lot of talent. Trouble with them is, ownership will let it escape before it can be properly utilized. That’s when we barge in, take what we need, and peel out of the parking lot, players in tow, chucking our empty tequila bottles out the car window for Stu Sternberg to clean up. Easy does it good man.

By Topher_24

September 21, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

I’m trying to stay pessimistic, so that if the Braves pull it off, making the postseason that is, I’ll be happily surprised. But that’s just me, I guess. Sure do wish the media would do the same; just act like it’s another day and the Braves have no chance to make the playoffs.

If they do, “we can dance in the streets.” And I will, for sure, but reality sank in around late August, when it seemed no matter if we won or lost, we still seemed to lose ground or fail to make up ground day after day after day.

There’s always next year… sounds oddly familiar, doesn’t it?

By Ed Glennon

September 21, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Hudson has one less RBI than Woodward.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

You only get up for those you made that way so you can run away. A fighter pilot can’t get caught in enemy territory, especially when one of his missiles went astray.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

ACB Actually, it’s A-b-c. And then—bad news—there are 23 more you have to learn. Check back with us then.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave, don’t take it personal. It had nothing to do with you really. The entire offseason last year was spent on Devil Ray trade talk until most of us never wanted to hear the mention of another Devil Ray ever again. There is no doubt they have stud young talent most of us would love to get our hands on. But considering the DRays trade talk price for Baldelli, you can’t take trade talks with them too seriously.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

I have to admit to having an airburst, or two.

By Marc Kent

September 21, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

Good article. I’ll be left speechless if the Braves, after such a disapointing season, somehow come back in the last ten games and go to the post season. The last game of the season, if they do it, will be my new favorite game on TBS record.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

Didn’t know what an airburst was. Just looked it up on Wikipedia. Thanks Paladin. You learn something new everyday on the blog.

By Chop Chop

September 21, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

Thorman and Orr for Shields, Crawford, and cash considerations.

My work here is done.

By Shaun

September 21, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

TampaBrave, the Devil Rays are under new management. They are actually are headed in the right direction, although their record doesn’t show that. Don’t think they’ll give up a lot of value at this point. They need pitching.

By ACB

September 21, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, do you think we can get Carl Crawford?

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

Speaking of funerals, I went to a couple of D Ray games when I lived in Seminole. I have been to several funerals where there were more, and younger, people in attendance.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Learning it good. Experiencing it bad.

By ncscoots

September 21, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

considering the DRays trade talk price for Baldelli, you can’t take trade talks with them too seriously.

And the gods be thanked for that…Baldelli, 35 games, .204 BA, two interrupted rehabs since May, closed down for good earlier this month, and still undergoing more in-depth tests to figure out out what the heck is wrong with him.

Much gnashing and wailing from Braves’ Nation earlier this year when this guy didn’t put on a tomahawk uni. Oops.

By Pete Escovedo

September 21, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Rimshot for Paladin.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

People often talk about John Smoltz getting no run support. The Braves are 17-13 when he pitches this season. In those 13 losses, here are the ERAs at the time of the game for the pitchers he was facing:

April 12 - Bergmann - 3.72 ERA

May 14 - Bergmann - 2.76 ERA

May 29 - Ben Sheets - 3.82 ERA

June 5 - Vandenhurk - 8.50 ERA

June 22 - Kenny Rogers - 0.00 ERA

July 2 - Derek Lowe - 2.98 ERA

July 18 - Harang - 3.63 ERA

July 28 - Doug Davis -4.11 ERA

August 3 - Jeff Francis - 4.01 ERA

August 8 - El Duque - 3.08 ERA

August 28 - Vandenhurk - 6.59 ERA - but only 1 earned run in 11 innings against the 2007 Braves

September 2 - Glavine - 4.06 ERA

September 12 - Maine - 3.72 ERA

The only bum the Braves lost to all year when Smoltz was pitching was Vandenhurk with the Marlins but he also seemed to just have the Braves number this year.

I don’t know if I would blame the offense for not getting him enough run support. They were facing good pitchers for the most part.

It was often a battle of an ace vs. ace or an ace vs. another very good pitcher. Smoltz is great but Smoltz came up short in some of those games as compared to the pitchers he was facing.

This is kind of like the postseason dillema many wonder about on here.

When the starting pitchers are evenly matched or similarly matched, it is gonna be hard to get runs across and the team with the pitcher pitching best that day will prevail.

Smoltz, as great as he is, was sometimes not greater than a similarly matched pitcher on the days he pitched.

You would think though that since we have a better offense than just about everyone in the league, this would increase Smoltz’ chances of winning those games.

But then again, we are facing good pitchers in those losses and good pitching will beat good hitting, especially when not enough runs are manufactured through smallball at critical moments or there is not enough clutch hitting.

By Braves20

September 21, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

The four days for Soriano is bull hockey. The numb nuts throwing for the Marlins plunked what - three of our guys?

You gotta love the guy. He is a throw back to my Dad’s heroes - Gibson, Drysdale, Maglie etc. He has the look of a reliever rather than looking like the Michelin man if you know what I mean.

By Braveheart

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

ACB, don’t know about Crawford but I gotta imagine BaDLeDLi is pretty cheap right now. Hampton will be healthy next year. BaDLeDLi can take Hampton’s spot on the perpetually DL’d list.

By Yars

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

Atlanta finally going on a winning streak, but a little too late. Just not enough games left. If there were 20 games left, maybe we would have a good chance. Only 9 games left. Too bad the Padres are on fire right now. If they weren’t on some 7 game winning streak right now, then perhaps we would only be 2.5-3.5 games out of the NL Wildcard. As for the NL East, the Mets have 10 games left. I can’t see them losing 7 of their last 10, but let’s say they go 5-5, the Braves would have to win the rest of their games. If we’re lucky, we’ll finish the regular season in 2nd place, & 2 or 3 games behind the Mets. Ouch! Someone tell Bobby that when the regular season starts in ‘08, every game counts!! We’ll finish 2 or 3 games behind the Mets & have all winter to think about it!!

By Bob

September 21, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

Paladin,

Now airburst brings back memories..or nightmares might be more like it. Doesn’t mix well anytime, but especially at the chow hall.

By ACB

September 21, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

Paladin, I know my alphabits, Dude. ACB is an abbreviation.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Braves20 Point on!

Pete Escovedo You got the picture.

By Braveheart

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

I love that Soriano hit the guy. I don’t like that he plugged the dude in the earhole though. That’s tacky. It’s okay to buzz the light tower or bean him in the ribs or in the tookas but knocking a man in the head ain’t cool and it ain’t old school. I actually respected Ugla for not charging and then taking him yard the next game.

By Carolina Gent

September 21, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Thanks for keeping the blog going Carroll, agree with the “good post” sentiment. It sure looks, all of a sudden, that the Braves are having fun playing baseball again. I think it’s probably too little, too late, but hey, if the Braves win out (not likely) or maybe go 7-2 with a sweep o\f the Phillies, and get some help from others, who knows? Nobody thought the Red Sox could come back from being down 0-3 to the Yanks.

We really need to sweep Milwaukee, which won’t be easy. Even with Smoltzie and Hudson on the mound the next two games, it’s a tough battle. I saw earlier today where Gallardo has like an 0.64 ERA in his last 4 starts and I think I saw where the Brew Crew was unbeaten in Villanueva’s last several starts. But if the pitching staff can keep it going, and if Chipper and Edgar can keep it going, the last week of the season will be fun to watch!

As for Soriano’s suspension, I believe that he was retaliating against Kim’s 3 HBP. I doubt he meant to throw it that high to Uggla, probably was just aiming inside and it got away from him a bit. I’d say 1 game, at most, to be served at the start of next season unless the Braves are eliminated from postseason competition.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Bob Hey buddy, where you been? And no, those ain’t good either.

ACB I know it is an abbreviation. I gave it to you, remember?

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

ACB is Another Compensated Blogger if I recall correctly.

By brewdawg

September 21, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

I had made my peace with the fact that the Braves were gonna miss the postseason. Now I’m starting to get excited again, which means the Braves probably drop 2 of 3 this weekend, causing me to suffer all over again.

By ACB

September 21, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, Dude, Small-b-delli be damned. We want’t Carl Crawford.

Bob, at some of the chow-halls I queued up in, you couldn’t tell the difference between the food and the airbursts.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

Braveheart is a weenie. Braveheart is a weenie.

By TNRON

September 21, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

I really dont get it.The pitches that hit Tex were breaking balls.The pitch behind Andrew was a pinched slider.And we feel bound to retaliate against Uggla.Where was this mentality when the Mutts NAILED Escobar twice on the elbo with heat and did not give a damn.Where was the retaliation then.And dont hand me the crap it wasnt intentional that he (Escobar dives in).The pitches were running fastballs started on the inside part.Jose Reyes should have been plunked,no ifs,or ands,or buts about it.The Mutts had been talking smack going into that series and it was nothing short of intimidation.And the sad thing is it worked.We tucked our tails and got swept right on out of the picture.I am surprised nobody else on here said anything about it then.

By Bob

September 21, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

I have been around Paladin. A bit more focused on the Dawgs these days. Tough game tomorrow night though. Am enjoying the Mets collapse though. They would never live this down if they flop. Mets Drool must be under 24 hour watch to ensure he doesn’t do something desperate.

ACB, yeah understand where you are coming from about Chow and Airbursts, but I have to say usually we got pretty decent stuff. And recently it actually spoils you unless you are at a remote OP.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

Beforeyou come after me, Braveheart, I agree that you don’t throw at a man’s head. Although Sal the Barber made a science out of it in a day when they didn’t wear helmets.

All that said, I agree with Carolina Gent that he was trying to buzz him and it got away. But, 4 games is way too much when he hadn’t been warned and wasn’t ejected.

By TampaBrave

September 21, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Shaun

Read deeper. Same s**, different owner. 15 % increase over three years is what they have pledged. Do the math!!

By ACB

September 21, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, I think you’re right. And here I was claiming for a month that it stood for Awesomely Cute Bulldog.

I hope none of those girls like baseball. Or read.

By ronmc

September 21, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

You really ought to check your facts before you “report”. Bennett pitched in 60 ball games for Milwaukee a few years back, so he is definitely not a rookie.

By ppaddy123

September 21, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

If not for the DL, Chipper Jones would be having a monster year. Basically he has had 122 fewer at bats than Matt Holliday, which is roughly 20% fewer. If we were to factor in the 20%, his numbers would be: AVERAGE .342, HITS 206, RUNS 126, DOUBLES 51, HR 33, RBI 120. Can you say MVP?

By Kentavo

September 21, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

See what consistent starting pitching will do? This team is talented enough to make the post-season and would have done so if: a. There was one more reliable starting pitcher all season long b. Cox managed the whole season as he’s doing now c. Andruw either pulled his weight or was benched

Despite all the pour-mouthing we’ve done about the tight-budget owners, we still have a lineup with 5 allstars in it: Chipper, Andruw, Edgar, Tex and McCann and two All-star pitchers: Smoltz and Huddy.

So I’d say that this team still under-achieved and was under-managed.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

Bob Tomorrow night is the Dawg’s season. By losing to SC they have made every SEC game the season. We’ll see if they are “man” enough.

By It's over, it's over, it's oooooover

September 21, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

The 5 game winning streak is meaningless. They only got hot when there was no pressure. To think they’ll make up 4.5 games with only 9 left in the season is beyond ridiculous.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Somebody stepped in something and brought it in on their shoe.

By Lew

September 21, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Braves20-The one big difference between Drysdale, Gibson and Sorinao is that Gibby and Drysdale would have either thrown the ball one inch in front of Uggla’s face or broken one of his ribs-not bounce it off of his back and hit him in the face. Now I agree that it was called for, but he could have made his point without almost knocking the guy’s head off.

By Kentavo

September 21, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

I agree - they started winning after the “must-win” series were no longer and after the national media stopped including them in the Wildcard discussion. If they get real close, I see ‘em folding and wilting under pressure again.

By flange1

September 21, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

I agree with most that Soriano’s suspension was a bit much.

I agree with claiming the inside part of the plate.

I agree with hitting a batter in retaliation for your players getting hit.

I also agree with Vlad who was almost beaned by a Seattle pitcher last night that you don’t throw at a guys head.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

Bob, Paladin, TampaBrave, I know you guys are all military. I wanted to thank all of you. I’ve got a 19 year old cousin I’m taking out tomorrow night who is going to be sent off to Iraq for the first time within the next 3 weeks. It will be my last night with him before he gets sent off and comes back from over there. We’ll be getting mighty drunk tomorrow night during the UGA-Bama game - not saying where since I just admitted I will be serving alcohol to an underaged soldier. Old enough to go to Iraq, not old enough for alcohol.

It makes me feel much better knowing he’s got fine men like you near his side over there - even when you are calling me a weenie. The boy has grown leaps and bounds since he reported to boot camp a year ago. The proud man he is today resembles nothing of the punkish boy I knew a year ago.

He is scared and his mother drives me nuts all the time with phone calls about how scared she is but he also wants to go over there as soon as he can get there which scares her even more. He says he doesn’t consider himself a Marine until he’s stood next to his fellow Marines over there. You fellas are some tough hombres. And here I am crying because Soriano had the nerve to bean a man in the noggin while the rest of us are wondering if the Dawgs are “man enough” to beat Bama. A little perspective I guess. But I have no doubt he’ll be questioning the Dawgs manhood himself if they lose.

By Bob

September 21, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

I understand your feelings. I am sure he will be ok and will do well. You are right about it putting other things into perspective. Hell, even this blistering heat in August felt mild compared to Iraq. Same with sports. It used to be my life to live and die with the Dawgs. Don’t get me wrong…it is still damn important. But not as important as visiting wounded Soldiers and Marines in hospitals or going to Hartsfield on Fridays to welcome them home. That being said, I think the Dawgs will be man enough* tomorrow.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Godspeed and look after your cousin. And tell him that an old Marine sends him a heartfelt Semper Fi. And to go kick some towel-head @$$ for me.

By Bob, Journalist

September 21, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

Jags, in response to your post on the previous Blog regarding Roger’s selection as pitching coach, … we obviously have different hiring perspectives … and possibly different hiring experiences. During my career, I worked for 10 different employers and self employed on two different occasions.

Thinking back, I was interviewed by 18 companies and received 15 offers in the process of obtaining those 10 positions.

My resume was certainly important and instrumental in my obtaining 16 of the interviews. However, to my knowledge, no offer was ever made to me because of my resume or track record.

Over time, I interviewed perhaps 150 candidates for various professional positions where I had either the decision making responsibility or veto authority … virtually all as a result of resumes or individual recommendations for consideration.

However, I can remember but 4 of those positions (approximately 35) being filled primarily on the basis of the resume … and all four were subject to relatively close supervision and tight control.

Don’t get me wrong … I think a successful track record does give the employer some measure of comfort but most are far more interested in what you can do rather than what you have done … that is, they don’t pay the big bucks for solving problems that have already been solved.

From my perspective, certain things just can’t be effectively measured by statistics … the resume simply provides an overview and can also serve as an initial screening device/gatekeeper so that obviously unqualified applicants can be quickly and easily rejected … but to suggest the hiring of a candidate to be a mistake because of the resume, seems itself suspect since it ignores the main body of the selection process and brings into question the existing management team’s qualifications.

That’s not intended to be an endorsement of Roger or to suggest that the organization would not be better served with a different pitching coach … no selection process is perfect … it may have been a mistake to hire him, but methinks it’s a bigger mistake to posit that his resume should have resulted in his rejection as a candidate after he had survived initial screening and reached the “serious consideration” stage of the process.

Job titles never meant nothing to me neither … I was just a problem solver so it made me no never mind what I was called … most frequently it was just hey you!

By TennesseePaul

September 21, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

Guys. I know the streak this team is currently on is nice. I know the chances of the post season are slim to none, but this streak is not too late for this team to make a push and finish the season in second place. Yes they are going to have to win every damn game. But, we got Smoltz and Hudson going tonight and tomorrow. If the bats keep showing up, that extends it to 7 games. Then they just have to pull themselves to gether for the final week of baseball and let the Phillies and Astros have it. I know they can do it. Post season be damned. Just win the games.

GO BRAVES!!!

By wilson

September 21, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

I think you just jinxed us. No one was talking about it and that was why we were winning, thanks a lot Carroll…

By wilson

September 21, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

I think you just jinxed us. No one was talking about it and that was why we were winning, thanks a lot Carroll…

By raindawg722

September 21, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this

All together now … JUST - WIN - THE - GAMES.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this

Thanks Bob & Paladin.

By Big Easy

September 21, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this

You know, maybe I missed it, but I am surprised I haven’t seen anyone throw out the “Bud Selig hates the Braves” conspiracy card about the Soriano suspension. I mean, it sorta fits…Selig used to own the Brewers, so naturally he wants them to win…four game series against the Brewers…four game suspension…the suspension wasn’t handed down immediately after the incident, nor was Soriano ejected from the game…seems a bit fishy…

Now, I say all that with tongue firmly planted in cheek, but I do think 4 games is excessive when the player was not even ejected by the umpires working the game. And I agree that payback was warranted, but you just don’t throw at a guy’s head. Hit him in the thigh, or butt, but not the head.

A two game suspension should be it (if at all). Either way, it still hurts us at a time when we really do need to have our closer ready.

~E~

By Chop Chop

September 21, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

I wish your cousin all the best over in Iraq. It’s a mess over there and I’m sure he’s going to learn all about that. As for being scared, well, fear is a good thing. Fear will keep your a$$ alive if you channel it the right way. I’m sure the vets over there will set him straight.

By Train Wreck Bystander

September 21, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

GO BRAVES GO MARLINS

By Bryan from Kansas (Go KU)

September 21, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Did anyone read the Paul Hagen article in the Philly paper about Liberty Media cutting the payroll by a substantial amount?

By Bob

September 21, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

I think the 4 game suspension is way over the top. Usually starters are suspended 4 or 5 games but that only equals one start. And usually the starter has been ejected from the game. Four games for a closer is BS.

By Wayne in Utah

September 21, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

Four games for a closer is BS.

Bob

What does Barbara Streisand have to do with Soriano’s suspension?

:-)

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this

GO BRAVES GO MARLINS GO DAWGS

By Bob

September 21, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

Bryan,

I just did read it. I assume you did too. He said rumors have it that Liberty will drastically cut a $89M payroll. I don’t know where he got that from because sure does not jive with everything we have heard from DOB and the Braves Brass. We have been led to believe that they will increase the payroll somewhat. Does not seem to make much sense to have allowed the Braves to go after Tex and then say they are going to slash payroll. I don’t know, but think that this is pure Philly wishful thinking at this point.

By Lew

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

Bryan-It wasn’t even an article. It was three or four sentences claiming Liberty would drastically reduce payroll, which would be difficult because a few players made most of it. No quotes. No citing of sources. As a matter of fact, my response to you is longer.

By Bob

September 21, 2007 6:22 PM | Link to this

Wayne,

:-) :-) I will be out your way in couple of weeks. Taking relatives from Germany on two week swing of the West using SLC as my start and end point.

By Bob

September 21, 2007 6:22 PM | Link to this

Wayne,

:-) :-) I will be out your way in couple of weeks. Taking relatives from Germany on two week swing of the West using SLC as my start and end point.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this

What does Barbara Streisand have to do with Soriano’s suspension?

Well, Wayne, you know how Barbara Streisand will only do an interview with one side of her face showing because she feels like that is her good side of her face?

Well, after Soriano’s beaning of Fuggla the other day, Fuggla only has one pretty side of his face now. So, like Streisand, Fuggla can only do interviews showing one side of his face.

There’s your Streisand connection.

By ppaddy123

September 21, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this

Looking forward to the off season moves, I have been looking at the numbers. I think it is pretty much given that Andruw will be gone. Who do we replace him with? Not Mike Cameron. The Braves seem to have a pretty good relationship with the A’s. They have Nick Swisher (.264 average .390 OBP!) I don’t know a lot about him, other than those numbers. Anyone with any insight? Tampa Bay has BJ Upton (.307 average .390 OBP) But, he would probably be expensive. The Braves do not really need another “big RBI guy”. We need solid defense, good pitching, and clutch hitting. “Homey Upstairs”, make it happen!

By Bob

September 21, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

I assume you are talking about the Left side of her face. LOL

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

Thanks Chop Chop. Should have figured you for military. There is no way someone could have your wicked, razor sharp sense of humor without being military. The hard part about him talking about his fears with me is that I can’t relate because I never had the guts to enlist myself. I don’t want to be all false bravado with him or to be an enabler to him dwelling on his fearful thoughts. So, my answer is let’s get drunk and watch football. So shallow. But it’s the best I got.

By Wayne in Utah

September 21, 2007 6:51 PM | Link to this

Does anybody know the scoop on Dotel’s contract for next year?

I have heard that he has a player option for 6.1 Mil if he finishes 25 games. Supposedly, he is at 23 now.

Also, if he opts to take the option, then the Braves can decline???

I was thinking that maybe guys like Dotel and Yates or Devine might could be spun to the White Sox for Garland or Vazquez???

Also, I have read that maybe the Royals might be interested in Thorman for DeJesus? To me, DeJesus would be a good stop gap in centerfield.

That Villanueva kid has done very well so far this year. Let’s hope Huddy is on his game tonight.

By Wayne in Utah

September 21, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this

Bob and Braveheart

BS is strong from the left side!

By Wayne in Utah

September 21, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this

“Dave O’Brien” doing the ESPN Braves game does not do our DOB name justice!

By Bob

September 21, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

Wayne,

I heard today from Mark Schlabach of ESPN that Dave O’Brien actually substituted for Georgia announcer Larry Munson in 91 when Larry had surgery. I don’t recall it but I assume Mark was talking about this Dave O’Brien. Can anyone confirm that?

By Stuart

September 21, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this

CR, How is huddy feeling? He is throwing a lot of sidearm stuff in the first inning. Is he tired or is the 3/4 release point something he found and it’s working for him?

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this

WAYNE Please explain “BS is strong from the left side”.

By chrisklob

September 21, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah, here’s the situation on Dotel’s contract for next year:

It’s a player option paying him $5.5m plus incentives which are based on games finished this year. He gets $250k bonus for 25 gf’s, another $250k for $30 gf’s, etc., etc.

Interestingly enough, if Dotel decides to exercise his option, the Braves have the right to void it. Seems kind of odd to me.

Braveheart, good thoughts and prayers for your nephew. Without brave men service people like him, this world would be in much deeper you-know-what that we’re already in. I always thought that it was interesting that you could fight for your country but not have a legal drink too.

By Bob

September 21, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

Fish and Nats up 1-0 in second. Good job of getting out of trouble Huddy.

By Bob

September 21, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

Yeah Tex!

By chrisklob

September 21, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

Nice to see Braves getting a little national love on ESPN for a change. Is it just me or is everyone else as sick of that stupid yawning Pepsi Max commercial as I am? Between that one and Reginald the Home Depot guy I have to turn the channel away from SS every commercial break.

SOmeone needs to get off their arse over at SS and find some new customers to sell commercial time to.

By Carroll Rogers

September 21, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, you are on a serious roll. i love it.

and you made a good point, looking at all the pitchers smoltz has faced.

wilson, i aint’ jinxin nothing. they’re actually winning games i’m covering. all jinxes are off.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

Braveheart We took a young man, under similar circumstances, out to have a fare-well drink and the barkeep said no. We, then, said if he doesn’t drink then neither do we. You know what? That young man aged right before Our eyes.

By Shaun

September 21, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

Was listening to the game on the radio in the first inning. Skip Carey said Carlos Villanueva was traded from the Giants to the Brewers in 1904. Gotta love Skip.

By Bob

September 21, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

Chris,

Actually I like Boog and Joe, but could not agree more on that Pepsi Commercial. Something is rotten in Denmark when the Atlanta Braves are sponsored by that wannabe cola.

Fish pounding Pedro right now. 3-0 in second.

By chrisklob

September 21, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

Shaun, come on man. Give the guy a break. He was only off by 100 years! :-)

By Bob

September 21, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

Shaun, Come to think of it Villanueva does look kind of long in the tooth.

By TennesseePaul

September 21, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

Braveheart: You know Mariah Carey also only shows one side of her face, the right side. At least she did for the first 10 years of her career. It was either the right side, or a head on shot with her hair sheilding a good portion of the “bad side”. Even in her videos, close ups, she always turned to one side and that side only would be shown.

Then finally her other side showed, she cracked and entered the mental institute. Never really was the same after that.

Don’t believe me? Google her images… you’ll see the right side all the time or the straight on shot. Not so much the left side unless it’s a perp walk or something of that matter.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

Yeah Shaun, when you get to be mine and Skip’s age, 100 years give or take, ain’t bad.

By chrisklob

September 21, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Bob, I like Boog and Joe too but that commercial is so annoying to me that I am often tempted to find a radio to listen to while watching with the sound off. I find it pretty pathetic that the sales team at SS can’t find a way to get Coke ads on tv during Braves games.

By chrisklob

September 21, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this

Paladin, since Wayne didn’t respond (at least yet) I’ll give a stab at what I think he might have meant…..

BS is strong from the left side.

Barbara Streisand is a well-known liberal (left side). Or he might have meant that left-leaning politicians are full of it. Or perhaps he meant it as a compliment that he thinks she is attractive, but only from the left side.

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

September 21, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

Man, I feel old. Just heard that the Cardinals are going to honor Mike Shannon’s 50 years with the ballclub… When I first started listening to him do games(I was born and raised in St. Louis) he had only been retired for about 9 years.

I’m biased I’m sure, but Jack Buck and Mike Shannon were as good a broadcast team as any in the booth, IMHO. Just lots of fun to listen to, just like Skip and Pete are. http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/baseball/mlb/09/21/bc.bbn.cardinals.shannon.ap/

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Braveheart We took a young man, under similar circumstances, out to have a fare-well drink and the barkeep said no. We, then, said if he doesn’t drink then neither do we. You know what? That young man aged right before Our eyes.

Paladin, with your temperament, I thought you were going to say that you went out like Jack Nicholson when he was playing Bad A@@ in The Last Detail when they would not serve the black guy and the underaged kid by whipping out a gun on the bartender and screaming at him, “I am the motherfoocking shore patrol, motherfoocker! Give this man a beer!” Classic movie.

By Bob

September 21, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

Chris, I guess Pepsi paid more. But I agree, their sponsoring an Atlanta team would be like Budweiser sponsoring the REAL Oktoberfest in Munich.

Damn Fish….two errors and a pass ball to give the Mets the tie.

By eric

September 21, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

Thanks for beating the Nationals and Marlins. Lets try to beat the Mets and Arizona next season!

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

Thank you ChrisKlob. Say Hi to Savannah Guy for me and tell him I hope we will be “on” at the same time over the weekend. G’night.

By Savannah Guy

September 21, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

Paladin Well, I’m just back so I guess you’ll run off to bed now. Do I make you sleepy?

Braveheart Hey Cuz. Prayers, God speed and big salute for your nephew. I just met a kid a little while ago that’s headed to Afghanistan. First time. He’s a flying a cargo plane…amazing what they have to do to land in some places…controlled spiral (fall). He and yours are heros in my book.

Another must buy for you on music: The Shins, Wincing the night away” CD. The whole thing is great.

Steeledawg EROK can play the hell outa that guitar. To answer your question, yes…he’s still around, touring, playing all that. You can Goggle Eric Culberson and get all his tour dayes, samples, etc. Not to be confused with some other kid that has upped Eric on Google listing calling himself eRoc for electronic whatever.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

Braveheart If that was required. And he is black.

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

September 21, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Barbara Streisand was a babe at one time, believe it or not. Check her out in the great comedy WHAT’S UP DOC to see her at her best. Her views on the other hand…well, this ain’t a political forum, but just do a google on her husband James Brolin, and his comments on 9-11 that he made on a radio show that very day….ok, back to baseball already! ;)

By keylargo25

September 21, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Here is a stat ESPN just ran that speaks volumns.

Andruw Jones has 252 at bats with runners in scoring position which ranks 2nd in the major leagues.

Andruw Jones has 92 rbi’s which ranks 35th in the major leagues.

By Paladin

September 21, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy Sorry buddy, you don’t make me sleepy, age does. See you tomorrow.

By Bob

September 21, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

Night Paladin…Semper Fi

By raykelsey

September 21, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

Folks, we just saw a BIG part of the reason why we are not on top of the NL east by 5 games: Andruw Jones is absolutely confused at home plate. His at bats look worse and worse as the season drags on for him. Just gross. In all seriousness, would any of us NOT put Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux, or John Smoltz up to bat instead of Andruw with a game on the line and runners in scoring position? And he made how much dough this year? ESPN made a great comment on what his predicament would be if he were playing in a city without the polite bedside manner of Atlanta—or is it indifference? Hard to tell sometimes…

By Bob

September 21, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Fish really smelling it up now. Have made 3 errors and a pass ball and 6 unearned runs.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 21, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

ESPN does not do the worst baseball telecast I have ever seen but they are in the top three….

It is painful to have to view baseball games on that network.

By Savannah Guy

September 21, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this

Braveheart…you talking ‘bout that Cuckoo’s nest is gonna make the big Chief come back out. You know what happens to sinks then. Careful…easy…

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 21, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Bob, I got all of my jobs the old fashion way… Nepotism and bribes :-)

By Savannah Guy

September 21, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

Paladin See what I mean? Just when I walked in the door you grab a drink, put it in a to-go cup and head out the door. Dag blastit man! Why did you get that little umbrella in your drink? Drive safe.

By Braves Fan 79

September 21, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

Anyone looking as to why weve FINIALLY won 5 in a row and only have 3 or 4 sweeps on the season needs to look no further than Bobby giving woodcrap/orr a start every 3rd game or so on the season. ITS HARD TO WIN WITH 4 AUTOMATIC OUTS IN THE LINEUP! (orr, woodcrap, andrew, pitcher) WY DID IT TAKE U 140 games to realize that woodcrap SUCKS!!!! DAMNIT BOBBY!! Now we finially do what ive been calling for ALL season….and guess what? WERE WINNING!
This is a playoff worthy team…that was MANAGED out of contention!
Bobby should be the head cheerleader, not the person that makes game time decisions!

By brian

September 21, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

ESPN finally made a comment that makes sense.

Tom Glavin rumored to return to the Braves!

Come home Glavine!

By Savannah Guy

September 21, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

WW: Last Detail…not cuckoo. Me cuckoo…long long day. Had Nicholson right anyway. The Last Detail was a true classic (book) and the movie was great too. When I read it, “Catch 22” stuck as a life philosophy. Truism.

By A-ville Ranger

September 21, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

I’ve got mixed feelings about the way the team is playing.Like most of you, I ask’why now’? All that time where the competition begged to be overtaken.Now when it’s safe to not feel pressure they come to life.I guess it’s better than sucking but it’s frustrating as well.Also the competition came to life at the same time.All four teams ahead of us for a spot in the post season has matched or bettered our 7-3 record over the last 10 games.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

Paladin, G’nite, hold the fat lady tight. Don’t let her sing ‘til we got some bling.

Klobber and Savannah - thanks for your thoughts and sentiments.

Savannah - will have to check out your latest rec.

Looks like we went 104 posts of good conversation before a jerk showed up.

10Paul - Never realized that about Mariah. Will have to go look that up. I actually met her about 12 years ago. Did not find her very attractive at all - probably had more to do with her ugly diva demeanor towards everyone.

Tim Hudson is looking good tonight. So is the other guy. Both seem to have wicked movement on their pitches tonight.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

Savannah, I never realized there was a book for The Last Detail. I have only seen the movie. Loved that movie. That was back when Jack was an actor and not playing Jack in every movie. I don’t think he has done any good acting since A Few Good Men. I think The Departed was good despite Jack.

Paladin does have a way of paying his tab when you are walking in the door.

That homer by Tex was a bomb. An absolute bomb.

By Savannah Guy

September 21, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

Blog Rule Number 881: When every other post is your own, give it a break.

By Bob

September 21, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, you’re right about the good posts tonight. But there are other positives especially since we have been blessed with the absence of Mets Drool and our own conductors of negativity.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

Gil, I’m with ya on how bad an ESPN baseball broadcast is to listen to for a fan of the local team who knows more about the team than the announcers. I’m also with you on the nepotism. The only job I ever got without it was my first. Ever since then it has been nepotism, nepotism, nepotism. Have never had to apply or interview for a job since the first job.

By TennesseePaul

September 21, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

Braveheart: Which side did you meet? I mean, if you met her and came up on her left side, probably why it didn’t go over too well.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

Blog Rule Number 881: When every other post is your own, give it a break.

I hear ya Savannah. I’m outta here for the night. See ya, bud.

Thanks for the compliments Carroll. Keep up the good work. You and DOB both make the season fun even during those parts of the season when it turns out not to be much fun.

By chrisklob

September 21, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

It’s a real shame that Matt Diaz is such a defensive liability for this team. Between that and his inability to hit right handed pitching, I find it shocking that he ever gets on the field.

By Bob

September 21, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

Another great play by Diaz. His defense has really improved this year. Right now it is clear he should be the everyday left fielder.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

One last one. Diaz has grown so much as a fielder. That man needs to be our starting left fielder without a platoon next year. He only gets better and better. He has made some incredible catches the last few nights.

Alright, G’nite.

By Savannah Guy

September 21, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

Blog Rule Number 882: Sometimes you can ignore rule 881, if you feel like it.

Is it ok to say nepotism on the blog? Not bannable?

By BubbaAllred

September 21, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

I have never said anything negative about BC on this blog, but leaving Hudson in with two on and 111 pitches is just plain nuts. Braves LOSE!

By BubbaAllred

September 21, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

… and then BC brings in Mahay instead of Moylan. Great, just Great

By TennesseePaul

September 21, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

CRAP!

Now it’s Yates turn to give up the HR and tack on the rest of those runs to Tim even though Tim did the best job tonight. Total pain in the @ss. Hope the bats descide to show up.

WAY TO GO FRANCOEUR!!!

By chrisklob

September 21, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

Bubba, I agree. Especially since there are twelve guys in the bullpen. It’s not like he’s really got to manage the pen like he normally would.

By Bob

September 21, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

Have to agree with Bubba on this one. It is easy to second guess, but this one was a no brainer. Tough way to fall behind for Huddy.

By Bob

September 21, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

Have to agree with Bubba on this one. It is easy to second guess, but this one was a no brainer. Tough way to fall behind for Huddy.

By BubbaAllred

September 21, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

Is Moylan hurt? OOOOOO I am so mad I could spit.

By Braves20

September 21, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

Pardon me if I leave but I’ve seen this movie - in ‘91, ‘92, 93, ‘96 and so on.

I can’t wait for the end of ‘08 - hopefully the end of this nightmare.

By UGA Blubberbubba

September 21, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

Wail hail! Who didn’t see this coming? Nice job getting thrown out Bobby! What a genius he is.

By Stuart

September 21, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

I am sick of BC’s BS. He should have had Mahay or Moylan ready and should have went with Mahay when Fielder was up. Moylan should have been ready if Fielder got on. Then he gets tossed because HIS lack of game management cost him. That was unprofessional and ridiculous, and that has happened alot this year.

By UGA Blubberbubba

September 21, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Time to lay down and take it like a beeatch.

By Edgar

September 21, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Cox is going nutsss.Bringin Mahay to a right hander????and then bringing Yates to give another run.Another bullpen blow and again we LOSE!!!

By Stuart

September 21, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

That is the fourth time this year I know of he has gone too long with Huddy. I aint ready to throw in the towel, but this one hurts.

By Stu

September 21, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

Cox should’ve brought Mahay on to pitch to Jenkins, who doesn’t hit lefties, with men on 2nd and 3rd; rather than walk him and leave no room for error.

It’s on Mahay too, for coming in and not throwing strikes (his job), but hard to understand Bobby’s call there.

I’m guessing Moylan was being saved to close, since Soriano has pitched 4 days in a row; but Mahay should’ve been in one batter sooner, at least; maybe two.

By dannyboy

September 21, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox is an idiot. To leave Hudson in the game after he had thrown over 100 pitches should be more than enough reason to get him fired. While Cox may have been (???) a great manager in years past, his managerial decisions this year have cost the Braves dearly. He should retire or be fired before the season is over. He doesn’t deserve to wear the Braves uniform any longer!

By BossLady

September 21, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

When Diaz had to go to the wall to catch that ball, Bobby Cox should have lifted Hudson since he had been on base. He always wait until it is too late. JS was shaking his head at Andruw and Bobby. Our offense is to be included in all mention of funerals that happen to come up on the blog.

By Edgar

September 21, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

Please bobby go to your Ranch in Alabama or wherever you have it and retire peacefully and quietly.Your STUPID managerial decisions probably cost us the season.Retire bobby!!!!retire!!!!

By TennesseePaul

September 21, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

YATES STINKS!

The guy didn’t get a single out. Came in, gave up a hit, and Francoeur got the out. Then came back in and walked the first two batters. This guy needs to be traded this offseason.

C’mon Bravos! Get these guys out and plate 4.

By A-ville Ranger

September 21, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

I think Yates has the arm so I wouldn’t give up on him entirely.Why,when you have all these big young arms would you even be using him now the way he’s been pitching though ? I know it’s alchemy but it’s beyond my comprehension.

By Robert

September 21, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

Dangit this time tries. And dangit no matter how hard they try, Donk is there to hold them back

He-HEE-he haw=haw-HAW

By Edgar

September 21, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this

Wow,there are like 7500 pitchers in our bullpen and he calls YATESSSSSS.Stupid,stupid,stupid!!! Where the hell was MOYLAN instead of Mahay?????

By Stuart

September 21, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this

I may hate myself in the morning, but ya know, Robert is begining to make sense. I know I know, but after tonight some of his stuff rings awful true.

By TennesseePaul

September 21, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this

home plate movin’ around… ESPN’s K-Zone doesn’t match MLB.com’s GameDay K-zone.

By chrisklob

September 21, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

Stuart,

Many, many of the regular bloggers do not disagree with Robert. Unfortunately for him, criticizing BC is the ONLY thing that Robert appears to be capable of doing.

By Edgar

September 21, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

I’ve said all the time Yates SUCKSSSSS, he just suckssss.I think even Wickman was better than him.He’s not even a AAA pitcher.

By chrisklob

September 21, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this

TennPaul, can you tell which one is more accurate?

By Stuart

September 21, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this

Alright, bravos are still in it, but you have to win out now. Anything less than 88-74 aint going to do it. This was a tough one to lose, and its completely BC’s fault on this one. He rode his horse to long and left his two best arms sitting in the pen, incridible.

If we make blog rule 883 “Tyler Yates can’t pitch again this year unless we are up or down 15, do you think BC would do it.?”

By GermanBravesFan

September 21, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

Chrisklob: I think Robert needs to go play with his donkey… ;-)

By Stuart

September 21, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

chrisklob

You are right, still I just feel dirty agreeing with him for some reason.

By chrisklob

September 21, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

GBF, you’re probably right. He sure talks about it enough.

By raykelsey

September 21, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

I find Bobby’s antics utterly deplorable. Mahay against a righty after leaving Huddy in too long. I used to be such a Coxite, but his managing this year leaves me speechless. ESPN’s Rick S. mentioned, as Bobby was screaming his head off about the umpires’ CORRECT calling of Mahay’s 4 consecutive balls, that he sometimes defends his players—“to a fault”. TRUER WORDS WERE NEVER SPOKEN…ahem…Andruw, Harris, Orr, Woodcrap…

I know ESPN is no Brave backer—especially the inept, brain dead Joe Morgan—but they actually seemed to sympathize with the fans a bit tonight. Everyone knows the emperor has no clothes except our esteemed manager.

I guess now all I ha—-OH COME ON, ANDRUW!!! ANOTHER STRIEKOUT!?!?!?!?!?!?! HOW BADLY DO YOU SUCK??!?!!!!…… sigh….uh…anyway, as I was saying, I guess now all I have to root for is Chipper’s batting title, Cox’s retirement, and Andruw’s departure.

By Edgar

September 21, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

I got a new poll for AJC.Should Bobby Cox retire or fired????

By Savannah Guy

September 21, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

Chris Hey Cuz…Huddy deserved better tonight, eh? What would a few blown Wickman saves look like right about now to Huddy and the Braves. Oh well…spilt milk. Seemed like the Braves just didn’t have the energy or the heart tonight. Like they knew it was all but over, which is true. Well, at 5, it was the longest winning streak of, what…the year? Chipper needs to go 4/4 tomorrow. Renty needs to do the same, just to keep their batting chase going. They’ll get’em tomorrow.

On that, g’nite.

By GermanBravesFan

September 21, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

Chrisklob: I don’t really pay attention to Robert anymore since he keeps repeating himself.

I think most of us here think we know what “should be done” in certain situations. Reality is, we are NOT baseball managers; we are working in some office or elsewhere FOR A REASON! Some of us just don’t understand that part. That’s why blogs are so funny - everybody thinks he/she knows the solution, but rarely is anybody right.

By chrisklob

September 21, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

Hey SG, yeah Huddy deserved better. He was awesome tonight as was Villanueva.

Unfortunately, our season is over but at least we still have CJ and AR to watch as they try to win the batting title.

Hope all is well. I think I read on the blog the other day that your wife has been ill again. Good thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

By Braves20

September 21, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Just a parting thought/question. In the past 50 years, what manager has done less with more talent?

The early clubhouse leaders would be Cox and Earl Weaver. Stengel managed in part of that period but damn it he won with the great talent he had -and he never had the pitching that Weaver and Cox were blessed with.

By GermanBravesFan

September 21, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Edgar: I say “extend Cox”! How about that? One bad year and you forget about the achievements of the past 15 years?

By N8

September 21, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

It appears as though tonight’s game mirrored this season, in a nutshell. Call it the Braves “Mini-me”.

Strong outing by Hudson, (with minimal hitting by our “vaunted” lineup in between).

Followed by Bobby leaving him in too long.

Followed by Bobby finally taking Hudson out, but being replaced with the wrong reliever.

Followed by Bobby arguing balls and strikes on four pitches CLEARLY out of the strike zone, leading to ANOTHER ejection and quite honestly, Bobby making and azz of himself on a nationally broadcast game.

Followed by the heart of our order NOT picking up said pitcher(s) in the bottom of the 8th.

Followed by Bobby giving the ball to Yates (Yes. Unfortunately, even when ejected, Bobby STILL pulls the strings from the “tunnel”) in a game that is/was STILL close.

Followed by Yates doing what he has done more often than not….let the team score another run.

WAAAAAY too predictable for me.

Like many of my posts, this team is like a broken record that just keeps on repeating itself, over and over and over….

…this team is like a broken record that just keeps on repeating itself, over and over and over….

…this team is like a broken record that just keeps on repeating itself, over and over and over….

By Stu

September 21, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

I agree that Bobby has had a bad year. There are at least a handful of games that you can almost definitely pin on him. Of course, correct decisions are taken for granted, but that’s a whole other discussion.

The thing to keep in mind is, if you watched the Brewers, or the Phillies, Cardinals, Rockies, Mariners, Tigers, or any other team that’s good but not great you could probably find just as many questionable decisions.

I don’t know that for a fact, because I don’t watch those teams on a regular basis, but I strongly suspect it.

Bottom line is, it comes down to player performance, and talent. Fans of every team that misses the playoffs by a few games will probably look back at decisions made, and say “what if.”

By chrisklob

September 21, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

GBF, I generally ignore them too for the same reason. It’s the same reason that I often scroll past certain other bloggers — they’ve got nothing to say that I want to read. Of course, most of those bloggers have moved on to spew their vileness elsewhere which is why we only have about 160 posts on this blog which is over eight hours old. Of course, those people are the same reason that I decided to take a month long or so break from this blog. Just didn’t need to read the same nonsense from the same idiots day after day, blog after blog.

By Stuart

September 21, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

German,

Unless there was inside info that we did not have, then most of us ARE right or playing very common percentages in our strategies. We have also watched this team long enough to know things like:

1. Huddy is usually gassed after about 100-110 pitches.

2. Orr and Woodward suck in stereo,(not my copyright, but someone said it early in the year and it wins post of the year in my book)

3. Yates has a million dollar arm, but a 10 cent pitching IQ. Why on my families name he keeps getting used in tight situations is beyond me. He has NO command of his pitches.

4. Mahay was acquired to get big left hand hitters out.

5. Moylan has been our best picther all year and yes has worked more than 3 outs many times.

6. The pitchers spot HAD ALREADY PASSED THE LAST HALF INNING. NO WORRIES ABOUT HAVING TO LIFT THE PTICHER AFTER ONE BATTER. Oh that and the NL does use the double switch if we did need it.

7. Smoltz is going tomorrow, heck fire the big guns tonight, chance are he is going to be strong.

I am not a Robert, BC has had plenty of help screwing with this team and my mind this year, but tonight he was a ‘donkus maximus’.

By BubbaAllred

September 21, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

Way to go Andruw. Three more strikeouts tonight. You’re fast approaching your single season record of 147

By Goat Horns

September 21, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

This game my friends is a great example of why we are not in the playoffs this year!

The offense fails to show up at critical times and Bobby gets out managed.

Tyler Yates should never come into a game when we still have a chance to win and why is a .340 hitter batting behind a .220 hitter??

It is said that one of Bobby’s strong points is that he treats everyone the same whether they are a superstar or a bench player. That is not true. He refuses to bat Andruw 8th because he is a star and it would hurt his ego to bat that low in the lineup.

I have more confidence in Hudson getting a hit with men in scoring position than Andruw.

Let him go at any price! We don’t want him back next year.

By raykelsey

September 21, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this

German Braves Fan, I think most of us in here are hardly dilettantes when it comes to baseball; our assessments and harsh critiques of Bobby are based on the standards that were set forth for us for however many years or decades we have been watching baseball. And by the way, some of the standards against which we compare Bobby of 07 are Bobby of years past! He is simply managing haphazardly, sloppily, nonsensically. He is Bizarro Bobby.

The occasional managerial gamble aside, can you imagine Bochy or Pinella or Torre making any of the decisions Cox made tonight? So, either he is the mad genius this year (the record says otherwise) and everyone else is accidentally managing their teams into the win column by going mostly by the book, or Bobby Cox has simply been a huge disappointment in 2007. And to be honest, I think many of the bloggers I have read on here over the past 6 months are as knowledgable as most ESPN’s analysts.

By Double Deuce

September 21, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

I can’t fault Yates for taking the ball every time they call the bullpen. What’s he supposed to do? “Sorry coach, in case you haven’t noticed, I’m so freaking burned I can’t get my arm to my shoulder or find the 5 mph I’ve lost off my fastball.”

The problem is with whoever it is that keeps making that calland can’t see what we all see. Tyler Yates was, and will be again,a quality reliever. What we need to find out is who’s responsible for ignoring all the new young arms that are begging for their chance in favor of a couple of guys who would love to rest. There are some very poor decisions being made and someone needs to be held accountable.

I’ve been in Bobby’s corner for a long time and will be for as long as he’s here, but I’m starting to wonder how long that should be. When you have staunch Braves supporters starting to side with Robert you have a problem.

By GermanBravesFan

September 21, 2007 11:19 PM | Link to this

Even IF Bobby Cox has lost his edge, I think the man DESERVES the right to decide WHEN he will retire/step down. What everybody here seems to forget that without Bobby, many of us would not be here today/tonight discussing the Atlanta Braves!

By bravesfan

September 21, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

Ummm… What’s up with this?

Braves need to cut payroll? There are rumors that Liberty Media, which now owns the Braves, will mandate a deep cut in this year’s $89 million payroll. That could be difficult since the club is already committed to John Smoltz ($14 million), Tim Hudson ($13 million), Chipper Jones ($12.3 million) and Mike Hampton ($15 million) in 2008 and also needs to sign Mark Teixeira to a long-term deal to justify trading top prospect Jarrod Saltalamachia to get him.

By ol' fart

September 21, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

Don’t get me start about stinking Tyler Yates who has got to be the biggest, most useless humanoid ever employed by a so-called stinking athletic team. The Braves would do better if they brought a gorilla out to pitch or maybe an empty suit of armor from a medieval stinking museum, or how about a 98 year-old, blind, paraplegic grandmother from Clifton New Jersey who also happens to have multiple sclerosis. I just cannot fathom for the life of me why Bobby Cox keeps trotting this hulking, sweating, farting, pile of cookie dough out to the mound in critical stinking situations and look at the results. When was the last time he actually accomplished something? The Mesozoic era? Tyler stinking Yates is a freaking dinosaur: Tylersaurus Wrecks us. What is Bobby Cox thinking? Does he think anymore? Tyler Yates has an earned run average that is growing faster than the number of illegal immigrants in California but Cox keeps sending him out there. So the guy has a 95 mile an hour fastball. So what if he can’t throw it over the stinking plate for Cy’s sake. This pile of 240 official pounds of digested beef lard pitches to three stinking batters and gives up two walks and a single. What kind of success is that? And that is pretty much what he does every time out. Oh excuse me, I shouldn’t have called him 240 official pounds of digested beef lard. Since he was born in Hawaii I should have said 240 official pounds of digested Kalua Pig, slow-cooked in an imu for many hours. He was originally drafted in the 23rd ROUND what does that tell you? That he was one of the very top prospects available? He’s had 2 major arm surgeries and has never distinguished himself anywhere. His lifetime earned run average is over 5!!!!!. What is this guy doing on a major league roster at all? Why is he in the brave’s bullpen? And why is he getting paid $412,500. You can pick a kid working at starbucks and pay him $9 an hour to pitch for the Braves and get just as good results and maybe better coffee in the clubhouse as well. But Bobby Cox probably prefers Chock full of Nuts. Tyler Yates makes Buddy Carlyle look like Tom stinking Seaver. So what is it with Cox? Is he senile? Does he have a memory problem like the guy in Memento? Maybe Roger McDowell should write notes on postits and stick them all over the dugout. Bobby don’t let Tyler pitch. Tyler is not available tonight. Bobby send Tyler to stinking Mississippi. Bobby don’t forget to zip your fly. Bobby wake up. But that’s not Roger McDowells’ job to write little postit notes to Bobby Cox. Isn’t McDowell’s job supposed to be teaching these overpaid, overfed and underexercised hulking blobs to pitch baseballs that the opposition can hit safely only about a quarter of the time. Or is that asking too much? Or does Bobby Cox really think that Tyler Yates is doing a good job. In this age of diminished baseball expectations maybe an earned run average of 5 is actually pretty good. Or maybe Tyler had a tough childhood and the other kids were mean to him - he being a large, fat, sweaty, unathletic kid and the compassionate, psychologically astute Bobby Cox doesn’t want to hurt his feelings and really wants to give him a chance and build up his self-esteem cause relief pitchers with good self-esteem are happy relief pitchers. That’s OK Tyler, you tried really hard - you’ll get ‘em next time. And what is a set up man anyway. Someone set up for failure because that’s all that seems to happen with the Braves bullpen. And how come Roger McDowell is not in the bullpen supervising the pitchers but instead sitting in the dugout with his hands in his pants occasionally engaging in important discussions with Bobby Cox like: (Cox) OK kid let’s throw a strike. (McDowell) Yeah. (Cox) C’mon kid. (McDowell) mute. (Cox) Roger he’s throwin’ good don’t you think? (McDowell) Yeah. (Cox) It’s kinda cold tonight. Get me some coffee. (McDowell) You mean some gin in a coffee cup? (Cox) Yeah.

By David O'Brien

September 22, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

BravesFan, hate to even waste time addressing this, but you and at least one other person seem obsessed with this “rumor” that’s, as far as people I’ve talked to agree, totally unsubstantiated and comes from no one willing to put their name on it.

I don’t know where you’re hearing about any “deep cut” in payroll, but it’s exactly opposite of everything I’ve heard from team officials, and everything indicated publicly by team prez Terry McGuirk, who is Liberty’s voice in such matters.

So unless you want to go by what you read in the Richmond newspaper and a couple other places that picked up that random note that wasn’t attributed to anyone, rather than what team officials have actually said, I’d advise you to quit worrying about a paycut when there’s no reason to think there’s going to be one.

In fact, quite the opposite. MLB officials, and McGuirk, made it clear at the time of the sale that part of the agreement mandated the team NOT make any significant payroll reduction.

And I don’t know where you got that little blurb you just attributed to the AJC, but it did not come from anyone at the AJC. So we’re gonna have to remove the bogus attribution.

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

first of all it aint BOBBYS fault had plenty of chances to add on.

for me the biggest play was FRANCOUER misplaying the ball in right, this put runners on 2nd and 3rd instead of first and second.

should of been out of the 8th tied 1-1.

By David O'Brien

September 22, 2007 12:12 AM | Link to this

If the Braves decide to move Renteria, one other potential suitor has emerged: Detroit.

The Tigers might move Carlos Guillen to first base in 2008, and if they do they’d almost certainly be looking for a solid SS replacement.

Jim Leyland likes Renteria about as much as any player he’s ever manged, I can assure you from comments he made back when I covered Jim’s Marlins in 1997-98, and from comments Jim made again to me after the Braves traded for Renteria.

Just something to keep in mind.

By No more Atlanta Braves

September 22, 2007 12:14 AM | Link to this

Yes it is confirmed. The Braves will be moving the franchise to Alaska after the payroll is cut in half. The team will be renamed the Inuit Natives. And in more blog stupidity , Robert has been named the new general manager.

By Dan

September 22, 2007 12:15 AM | Link to this

The “deep payroll cuts” comes from one nobody writer named Paul Hagen in one Philly paper.

http://www.philly.com/dailynews/sports/20070921PaulHagen_Countingmoreon_bullpens.html

I’d sure like to know what this guy is hearing that no one else is. I think he made it up.

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 12:23 AM | Link to this

damn OLD FART,

i thought francoeur is way overated, but i have always liked him as a person.

your rant on TYLER YATES is just about rubber room like.

By David O'Brien

September 22, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

Dan, Paul Hagen is not a “nobody” writer. He’s a very good veteran baseball writer. But in this case, I think he might have picked that up from the Richmond guy and assumed it had some legs. I could be wrong (in other words, Hagen might have talked to someone who told him it was true), but I’ll ask Paul when I see him next week in Philly.

Again, it’s completely opposite of everything I’ve been told, which is that the payroll should rise at least a little.

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 12:33 AM | Link to this

DOB,

just as long as we dont end up with BONDERMAN, his arm is shot.

would rather take a shot on MILLER which is probably untouchable.

on a serious note ANYONE BESIDES ME WORRIED ABOUT McCAANS DEFENSE.

dropped a pitchout in the 9th.

a lot of people took JAVY for granted but he was always clutch. regular and postseason, REMEMBER THE SERIES AGAINST THE CARDS IN 96.

B MAC LAY OFF THE YOOHO0S AND DONUTS.

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 12:47 AM | Link to this

BRAVEHEART,

my father in-law is an ex jar-head,

two things i have learned in my journeys to PITTSBURGH. THE VFW IS A GREAT PLACE TO DRINK CHEAP BEER, and they dont like republicans up there, total union town. though my father in-law was a officer, he did three tours. BRAVEHEART i know nothing about the horrors of war but have met a bunch of older gentleman that have shared it.

GOOD LUCK AND GODSPEED.

By donkus maximus

September 22, 2007 12:49 AM | Link to this

anybody got a dog I can kick, I’ve had some gin in a coffee cup again on the bench, did I get thrown out again? Who won?

By Double Deuce

September 22, 2007 12:54 AM | Link to this

‘ol fart

Got a kick out of your post the other night…wasn’t directed at anyone, just seemed humorous.

Your ranting ramble on Tyler Yates tonight is just the opposite. You should put down your whiskey, sober up and keep the personal attacks on players to yourself. To say you’re over the top is an understatement. Can’t believe the AJC allowed that one to get thru.

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 12:57 AM | Link to this

DOB,

think i mentioned to you about ratbuns new place STEAK, about a month ago.

second time there food is great. WAY different atmosphere from BONES and MY HOME CHOPS.

if you take your date or significant other GET THE STEAK for two plus the cream corn.

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 1:07 AM | Link to this

double deuce,

let old fart rant, while i dont agree with it, it is his right.

and if you think that any of these guys take it personally, they DONT GIVE A CRAP ABOUT US. they do the interviews they do the radio shows, and you know what i would probably be the same way too.

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 1:12 AM | Link to this

hey JESSE JACKSON,

the most liberal city in the world cannot wait to get rid of BAROID.

better sick tim robbins and jeaneane garofalo on us.

somehow we are trying to take jobs away from BONDS and DONNOVAN.

By chrisklob

September 22, 2007 1:30 AM | Link to this

Greetings DOB,

The rumors about payroll cuts for the Bravos were on the SI.com website earlier today. Actually, they were on the “rumors” site that is attached to it called “FanNation.com”. Below the synopsis of the story was a link indicating that it was from the AJC but when you clicked on it, the link took you to a Philadelphia paper’s website. I hit the link, thinking that you or CR might have written the story. Oddly enough, that story has been removed from their site.

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 1:48 AM | Link to this

LEW,

as i sit here drinking pinot AND SMOKING a DUNHILL on the back deck i cant HELP THINKING WHAT UNCLE LARRY IS going through now.

second time in 40 years, think about that, he has not called a DAWG game. mortality is a b***.

the GREAT VOICE IS SEMI RETIRED, as for me who listened too MY GOD A FRESHMAN , in 1980. we then listened to RUN LINDSAY RUN, MAN IS THEREs GONNA BE SOME DESTRUCTION ON ST. SIMONS TONIGHT.

then there was BUTLERS 60 yard field, OH MY GOD OH MY GOD.

sorry to bore all you non GEORGIA FANS.

I STARTED GEORGIA IN 1985 same year that mike shula brought bama down the field to beat us in the last second on labor day 1985.

AS for all sports fans, we GEORGIA FANS HAVE A TREASURE please respect that at some point tommorow,

the GREAT VOICE will not be in tuscaloosa, what a damn shame. as we sit there tommorow and worry about how to protect STAFF, i say we should all think about the VOICE.

WHATCHA GOT LORAN? well larry……

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 22, 2007 1:49 AM | Link to this

Wow, the old blog is pretty active tonight. Thought I would join in for a few minutes while waiting for Dr. Feelgood to show up. Trust me boys, I long for the days I could work 36 hours straight and never miss a beat. I guess it is catching up with me now, along with some not so gentle contact sports.

Ah well, makes it easy for the wife to find me as I can’t wonder too far. Anyway, tough loss but not the end of the world. Still two more game to play and tomorrow maybe our bats will show up.

Don’t worry too much about the comments made by John Markon of the Richmond Times Dispatch about the Braves payroll for next year. Likely it is a plant to see if the story will grow legs.

Braveheart I was just being a smart a$$ about the nepotism. Was mostly bribes :-)… I did once work for the Times Dispatch but I was considered a union radical and the rest is history. Funny, how someone can be viewed as a flaming liberal in one part of the country and an arch conservative in another and never change one thing in their viewpoint.

On the comments about Hudson, what did he give up? A seeing eye single and a broken bat bloop. Oh well, that’s baseball. It’s very tough to be in a position where you have to win every game.

The saddest thing is watching Andruw forget everything he knew about hitting. Just very very sad to watch him flounder like this.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 22, 2007 1:58 AM | Link to this

It was a shame Kevin Berry was DFA yesterday to make room for Joey on the 40 man roster. He was starting to come around the end of the season. I guess the Braves feel they already have enough journeyman types to carry.

Anyone know when the Arizona Fall League starts play?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 22, 2007 2:04 AM | Link to this

Okay folks…. It’s happy time. Good night all…

By daxxed

September 22, 2007 2:06 AM | Link to this

Well as the season slowly becomes moot, I can’t help but state that I was right. The Braves inability to bunt, yes play small ball, little league, what other foray you want to call it. But the fact remains the same, their inability to to bring home a runner on 3rd with 1 outs or less has cost them the season. I know that there were 7 home losses that could have been wins with just a bunt, and as many road losses that at least could have been ties which would have take them into extra innings. But regardless, those 7 home wins is the difference from another October gone. So all of you nay sayers, who told me emphatically that these were major leaguers and should not be put in a position to bunt in a run, well, you can say it all you want, but if they can’t they need to learn.

And in closing, let Andrew go, get another pitcher or two, don’t expect Hampton to be able to contribute next season. And has anyone thought about converting Yunell to an out fielder.

By Bob, Journalist

September 22, 2007 2:17 AM | Link to this

David O’B, I haven’t read much of the Blog and know not to which “And I don’t know where you got that little blurb you just attributed to the AJC, but it did not come from anyone at the AJC. So we’re gonna have to remove the bogus attribution” refers … but, are you saying that because something is bogus you’re required to remove it?

If that is the rule, then it certainly isn’t typically enforced.

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 2:21 AM | Link to this

daxxed,

dax has woke up from his serial bunting coma.

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 2:32 AM | Link to this

not to talk politics but jeaneane garoffolo is down right embarrsaing

i like maher but, but that troll is a idiot.

By Bob, Journalist

September 22, 2007 2:45 AM | Link to this

Methinks one’s views on nepotism depends on one’s family, more than anything else …

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

September 22, 2007 3:03 AM | Link to this

Go Dogs is all I can say !

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 3:13 AM | Link to this

hey bob,

first of all i hope everyone in ur family has got health.

as for the golden boy in rf. give me those great stats. heck the golden boy in my opinion would rather have shane victorino, 30 plus sbs, corey hart is already better. i know a lot of you believe that FRENCHY is gonna be great, strike out 140 a year aint no chipper.

no POWER he is not coachable,total lunger never seen a great hitter that cant keep his hands back.

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 3:19 AM | Link to this

gwinettt county,

if we build our team around a FAT A* and a showboat we will get exactly what we deserve.

TEX , ABSOLUTE stud same with HOSS.

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 3:30 AM | Link to this

i DONT dislike jeff,

i THINK HE PRETTY MUCH SUX AS A HITTER ANY 2ND BASEMAN CAN DRIVE IN 100 WITH CHIP AND TEX AHEAD.HIT

GREAT RF, #23 40, SHEFF, 35 , DREW, 30, GOLDEN BOY 17.

By uga-brave

September 22, 2007 3:42 AM | Link to this

well here it comes,

in two years HOSS is gonna be gone, first time i saw him at bat, he always had the look.

with all respect, # 7 will never hit over .290. CHIPPER IS A STUD, THE LUNGER is what he is.

By submariner

September 22, 2007 5:12 AM | Link to this

Bobby blew this one for Huddy. In the bottom of the seventh, there should have been a pinch hitter for him and got him out of there. Even if he decided to let him hit, which he did, Hudson should have never went out there in the eighth. All Cox did was deny Tim the chance of getting number 17. It’s those kinds of bone headed decisions that cut the deepest for me over these last 16 years. Get rid of Renteria, dump Hampton and go get Johan Santana, let Escobar take over SS, let AJ walk and turn over center to Harris and for God’s sakes please sign Texeria!

By submariner

September 22, 2007 5:19 AM | Link to this

Cox blew this one.Huddy should have never went out in the eighth. He’s coming off of a CG shutout and it’s late in the year! 7 innings was plenty good. It’s those kinds of boneheaded decisions over the last 16 years that cut the deepest for me as a Braves Fan! Package up Renteria and Hampton and go get Johan Santana, let Escobar take over SS. AJ is gone, let Harris play center, and for God’s sakes please sign Texeria!!!!!

By Bob, Journalist

September 22, 2007 5:23 AM | Link to this

uga-brave, thanks!

There’s much truth in much of what you say … but I suggest that you consider that “never” is a long time … methinks it’s a good idea to never say never.

I also have to take issue with the notion that certain players are not coachable … methink it depends on the one who’s attempting to do the coaching. It’s amazing how many ways there are to skin a cat … and how many obstinate folks will embrace your idea if they think it’s their own.

Methinks there’s nothing wrong with the raw talent on this team … it just needs development and direction … not replacing.

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

September 22, 2007 5:32 AM | Link to this

uga-brave,

Man, you really are on Frenchy’s case, aren’t ya??? I know it has been mentioned before, but he is only 23!!! You know what George Foster hit when he was 23, .200!!!! When Foster was 25, he hit 7 homers! At the age of 26, his top RBI season was 78. When he was 28 he hit 52 HR’s and drove in 149. And he was NOT on steroids I can guarantee.

Frenchy hit .260 last year (when 22)This year he is hitting .292. Drove in 103 last year, 101 so far this year. 12 less homers, big deal! OBP has gone from 293 to 336 this year. Slugging is down slightly, from .449 to .434. More doubles this year than last.

Don’t forget, both he and McCann have been hurt by the black hole that once was Andruw Jones hitting in front of them much of the year.(Not that it helps to have a guy hitting .220 behind you either though) If Andruw was having a typical walk year, I bet Frenchy and McCann would have higher BA’s and many more RBI’s. He clearly plays hurt(I do wish he’d take a day off now and then) and always runs hard, doesn’t he?

But, you know what’s more important, IMHO??? He WANTS to come up with the game on the line, and/or runners on. In fact, he is hitting .350 with RISP, and .341 with RISP and 2 outs. How is Andruw doing? 120 points lower with RISP (.230) and .165!!!!!!!!!!!!!! with RISP and 2 outs.

I can’t believe I even have to defend him to you!!! If/When we don’t have Andruw in the lineup(Oh please don’t sign him no matter how cheap JS!!!!) The last thing we need to do is trade Frenchy!!! Well, unless Santana is waved in front of us, and we can somehow sign him long term. Other than that, he HAS to be our right fielder for the next decade or so…..

By The Grinch

September 22, 2007 5:45 AM | Link to this

…..Oh, my head….back to bed…

By Bob, Journalist

September 22, 2007 5:45 AM | Link to this

I too believe that Bobby’s decisions may have cost us tonight’s game … but, that doesn’t address the number of games where his decisions had a positive impact.

As I look at the clock and realize that it’s now 4:45 Central … I can’t help but change direction and again express my opinion that this is a good place to be, even at 4:45 a.m.

Goodnight all!

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

September 22, 2007 6:04 AM | Link to this

One good thing about Andruw NOT rebounding at the end of the season…..hopefully the front office will remember how bad he was, right up to the end, and will forget the RBI’s that just about anyone could drive in. a link that goes way over my head, but still has some interesting info on his lost season, and the chance of a big contract…

http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/will-batting-220-hurt-andruw-jones-contract-chances/

By Grinch's Head

September 22, 2007 6:09 AM | Link to this

Oh my liver!!!

By Braveheart

September 22, 2007 7:26 AM | Link to this

Yeah, Gil, I am actually more of a shameless beneficiary of cronyism rather than nepotism myself. It’s not what ya know, it’s who ya know. Wish I could bribe ‘em but I got nothing they want, so I can’t bribe ‘em. Hence, why I resort to cronyism. The best way to get a job is to sleep with someone. The best way to lose the job is to stop sleeping with someone.

10Paul, this is sad but I spent a good part of last night reflecting on when I met her and I can’t remember. All I remember was that horrid personality.

UGABrave, thanks for your kind thoughts - as to my nephew - not as to Frenchy :O>

By ncscoots

September 22, 2007 7:31 AM | Link to this

random thoughts on the overnites…second-guessing is part of fandom, so I don’t get too wired about it here on the blog, just scroll on by. But who thinks Bobby wouldn’t have been excoriated here had he lifted Hudson after the 7th? I think he’s had a bad year managing, too, but Bobby-bashing has certainly become the newest favorite blog game…uga-brave, I do wonder how an oft-stated Princeton attendee and possessor of an MBA manages to write like a 13-year-old serial killer of the English language. Are you intentionally dumbing down for the blog? :-)…I tend to agree with Gil re Andruw. Most of my scorn has been expended, to be replaced by sadness. A great player reduced to futility, and that’s hard to watch, regardless of your feelings about his role in this season’s record…

Ah, well. The sun over the Carolina pines makes the day look promising, whatever may transpire. Think I’ll log in to life and partake thereof.

By Braveheart

September 22, 2007 7:32 AM | Link to this

Next time Grinch wakes up, he is gonna say Oh, for the love of Mickey Mantle!

By Robert

September 22, 2007 7:35 AM | Link to this

“Edgar: I say “extend Cox”! How about that? One bad year and you forget about the achievements of the past 15 years?”

The major achievement of the past 17 years has been consistant underachievement

“but, that doesn’t address the number of games where his decisions had a positive impact.”

That number is ZERO

By Braveheart

September 22, 2007 7:48 AM | Link to this

UGAbrave - meant my cousin. My head ain’t right this morning. Nothing like a 7 a.m. telephone call from my father on a Saturday morning making sure I am gonna treat his nephew right today.

6 out in the loss column with 8 to go ain’t cool. That was horrific managing last night. Bases are loaded and he brings in Walk a Day Mahay. Mahay has been good but he walks too many batters and seems to have done it a few times with the first batter of his appearance.

Roll Tide! I’ll go back to being a Dawgs fan next week. Herbstreit, Fowler, and Corso will be in Tuscaloosa today.

Alright, time for a Waffle House run and then back to sleep so I can get up in time for Game Day.

By ncscoots

September 22, 2007 7:48 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, just saw the posts about your nephew. Seems to me that giving him the “best you got” does not conform to “shallow”, my friend. Far from it.

I’ll remind you that the lad has had excellent training, that “drill is bloodless battle, battle only bloody drill”. He knows what to do and how to do it; he ain’t no .250-hitting scrub.

And also this: courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act in the presence of it. If he is so possessed, he’ll be fine. You, of course, will worry every day he is gone, LOL, but that’s for another post.

By Miles

September 22, 2007 8:07 AM | Link to this

The braves are finished. Mathematically, no; realistically, yes.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 8:45 AM | Link to this

Ah, well. The sun over the Carolina pines makes the day look promising, whatever may transpire. Think I’ll log in to life and partake thereof.

ncscoots Those lines alone, have made my day. Thanks.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 9:08 AM | Link to this

Savannah Guy & Braveheart You guys have your nerve accusing me of over-partaking in drinks with umbrellas after the two of you got hopelessly tangled in One flew over the Cuckoos Nest, The last Detail and Catch 22. The latter was a Heller novel with Alan Arkin as Yossarian in the film adaptation. The last Detail was a screenplay, never a novel. “Catch 22” was the military buzzword of the Viet Nam era.

By Robert

September 22, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this

“The braves are finished. Mathematically, no; realistically, yes.”

Realistically, the Braves have been finished since the day in early February when Cox reported to the spring training facility

By Robert

September 22, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this

Was scrolling thru the previous blog and came across this jewel from Smoltzie

““Everybody that’s been through here, with the exception of Bobby, who’s been here the same time, everybody had something to add”

Read that. Now read it again.

Smoltz is telling us that Cox has nothing to add to the team.

Smoltzie knows the truth.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

Robert You can read into almost anything what you want it to say. I read “everybody had something to add”, and that includes BC.

By journalist jimmy smith

September 22, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this

journalist bids all a good morning. grinch, get that liver fixed. it was sad watching the game get away from the braves last night. sad.

By Braveheart

September 22, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this

Paladin, all I said was that The Last Detail was a great movie. Loved that movie. They don’t make good gritty movies anymore like they did in the 70s. Never knew there was a book

Can’t tell from that website if the book was a cheap knock off meant to exploit on the popularity of the movie.

As for Catch 22, I have never seen that movie. Just looked it up on imdb.com after you and Savannah mentioned it. I might have to go check that out. Looks like alot of good actors in it.

Scoots Thanks for your thoughts.

Why isn’t Game Day over by Denny Chimes on the Quad? It’s much prettier over there than where they are doing the show today.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this

Grinch The way to fix your liver is to eat liver. Cook one. Marinate the other.

By Savannah Guy

September 22, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this

Paladin Good mornin’ friend. So, are you saying there were no umbrellas? You are so right about the various novels, movies, screenplays and such. Funny, ALL of those were favorites of mine at a time when I was getting out of high school, headed to a Brave New World (another favorite then) of college, surfing, rock ‘n roll and, well…I’ll leave it at that. Guess they sometime blend together…or whatever. Call it “hippy slippage”.

About that same time (70’s), to pay for school, I got a job as a “graveyard” shift nurse’s aide at a mental hospital. My buddy and college roommate and I both worked there. We’d show up at midnight, watch Johnny Carson in the dayroom with whatever patients were still up, eat snacks, find a few empty rooms if nothing was going on and get some sleep. Next morning we’d escort patients to a big hearty breakfast in the cafeteria, get ‘em all back safe and sound, give a nurses report, sign out, give our beat up old VW van (microbus) a push…pop the clutch to get’er cranked, crank up some tunes and head to the beach to go surfing until time for classes.

After classes we’d typically go by Alice’s restaurant, then chase girls or waves until time to “check ourselves back in”. We even had a watered down version of Nurse Ratchet as our boss. Those were the crazy, fun, Rock n’ Roll days. Our friends called us “outpatients”. I suppose that fit more than we ever realized at the time. Oh, the insanity!

Blog Rule Number 883: When dog tired from an especially long day, spend more than two seconds recalling details about films, books and other such important information from 37 years ago prior to posting, lest a fighter pilot swoop in and have to untangle it all the next morning.

By the way, wasn’t it originally titled “Catch 18” or another number?

By Smiter

September 22, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this

One thing I found refreshing in the aftermath of a disappointing Friday night loss to the Brewers was listening to the ESPN commentators quite dispassionate analysis of Andruw Jones on both defense and offence. And what exactly was refreshing? Not to have to hear the fawning, the coddling, the endless parade of excuses our local guys trot out night after night for this overrated, overpaid, underachieving lump. What did they essentially say? That he’s lost a step in the outfield and that his swing and plate sense have gone to the dogs. They quite rightly said that no other baseball town in America is going to be so patient or put up so much money for such a lame nag, and that his only hope is to stay in Atlanta, where for some strange reason we still have hopes for him(!). Interesting though that even the home crowd is getting a little antsy, raining down booes after a couple of clutch at-bats ended in their customary strike-out manner. Just shows that our local play callers can’t fool all the people all the time. Two or three good seasons out of ten does not a $12 million player make. Let’s dump this dog, find a couple of keeper pitchers for the starting rotation, and move on.

By Robert

September 22, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this

Paladin - The statement SPECIFACLLY excluded Cox -

“with the exception of Bobby”

Now, granted you can read around that if you like, but it’s there, in black and white

By bravesfan

September 22, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

DOB I wasn’t obsessed with it that is the first thing I have posted about it-unless there is another bravesfan on here-but I believe you more than any other crap I hear, it is just what I saw on (http://msn.foxsports.com/rumors/mlb#6) look at it for yourself but if you say there is going to be no payroll cut I believe you 100%.

By Robert

September 22, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

Shaun said “Lew, I’d rather be unoriginal than think RBI measure hitter performance ….. or that Bobby Cox is a bad manager …..”

Would this be the same Shaun who earlier this season was telling us how valuable a hitter Andruw Jones still was, despite the low batting average, and using as part of his arguement how many 100-rbi seasons Andruw had had?

Yeah, I think it would be the same Shaun

That’s also the same Shaun who pointed out that Pythagorean analsysis doesnt translate to real events on a real field, but who then uses Pythagorean analysis to support his claim that Bobby Cox is an exceptional manager.

Yup, that’s him.

Good ole Shaun, who can rattle off statistics without knowing (or caring) what they really mean, and who talks out both sides of his Cox-kisser

By Robert

September 22, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

There’s still hope.

Fire Cox TODAY!

That gives us a chance to run the table.

But Cox must be fired TODAY!

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

Nephew Just giving you a little “heat”. I realize it was SG who was caught in a web of confusion. The Fly, maybe? And you should watch Catch 22. It is one of the classics and if Arkin didn’t win an Oscar, he should have.

As for Gameday, I’m not watching a bunch of Bama brats screaming “We’re #1! In the state of Alabama, maybe. All I know is if Corso picks us, we’re dead.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this

Savannah Guy I was just giving you some “heat”, as well. You are still my favorite ex-hippie; am I still your favorite ex-jet jock?

Robert For the last time. I think it is time for BC to step down, but I want him to do so under his own steam and with honor.

By chrisklob

September 22, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Smiter, not sure what “local” broadcasts you’ve been listening to this year but Joe Simpson has been wearing Andruw Jones out all year long.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

SG Yes, it was orginally Catch 18, but that was too close to Uris’ Mila 18. 11 and 17 were rejected for similar reasons(Oceans 11 and Stalag 17)so 22 it was, and is.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 22, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

In the long haul, talent will win over desire 99 times out of 100. It is why it’s important for the stronger team to keep pounding the line to wear down their opponent so they can put the game away in the fourth quarter. So is is with baseball. The best teams show up in October having had the fewest bumps in the road after 162 games.

The Braves are still building but look to be on their way back. Only a couple of pitchers away from being the team to beat in the National League.

For all the Bobby bashers out there, be careful what you wish for, you might soon get it.

By DirtyDawg

September 22, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

I assume players, coaches and owners don’t log on to read this crap…shoot, nobody with any sense at all does - except me - because if they did they wouldn’t give a ‘s**t’ about playing in this town. The lame-brained, so-called, fans that skin their ignorance here daily, are an embarrassment - particularly when you consider where we were before ‘91. No, these guys do what they do for themselves and for their teammates - and for Bobby Cox - certainly not for the ungrateful fans that have been enjoying pennant races for the last 16 years and don’t deserve it. I mean, when was the last time you heard anybody say that Atlanta’s fans were knowledgeable and appreciative? And you won’t. I don’t know if the Braves can pull it out - they’ve got to basically win out and still have three games left with the Phillies - but if they do I’d love to serve up a ration of this crap for you ungrateful numb-skulls to choke on.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

Thank you for your “lecture” dirtydawg. And I agree. You are a dirty dog.

By The Grinch

September 22, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

For the love of Mickey Mantle! :-)

Paladin, thanks for settling what I should have for lunch; liver with fava beans and a nice chianti (hopefully we can all split an elephant for supper).

DirtyDawg, don’t mince words. Tell us how you really feel.

By Lew

September 22, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

Robert-May the powers that be save us from unoriginality-both now and forever after. Amen and Selah.

By Robert

September 22, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

“For all the Bobby bashers out there, be careful what you wish for, you might soon get it.”

Fear not, for it couldnt be worse. They could take Connie Mack’s pickled, demented, and long-dead brain, combine it with Larry Bowa’s temper and Bobby Valentine’s people skills, and implant it all into Mike Hargrove’s idiot’s body, and you’d have a manager a thousand times better than Bobby Cox

Bobby Cox is the stupidest human being to ever put on a baseball uniform.

Honor. Yeah, as if. He looked quite honorable hee-hawing at the umps like a fool about balls and strikes on national television.

If Cox had honor (or brains), he wouldve resigned 15 years ago.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

Grinch Let’s do some Elephant tippin. It is similar to cow tippin, but takes a little more leverage.

By Savannah Guy

September 22, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

Paladin Ahem, that’s not ex-hippie…it’s ex-hippie/surfer. Big difference actually. One being non-athletic and the other being in pretty good shape. Totally diff lifestyle actually. There are some similarities other than long hair and music though…but I ain’t goin’ there. Wouldn’t be prudent.

Yep, you are my numero uno jet jock but you ain’t ex. Once a jet jock, always a jet jock. Kinda’ like Westside story stuff in the air. Same with old hippie/surfer guy’s too I guess. We were once both high often (each in diff ways), fast, hard chargin’ and young guns. Ah, those were the days my friend.

Hey, these are also the good days…the days we’ll look back on and remember one day. All good and getting better every damn day, wouldn’t you say? Let the good times roll.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

Robert meet dirtydawg. dirtydawg meet Robert. Now, the two of you go split a 6-pack of Dumber Dew and leave the rest of us alone.

By Robert

September 22, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

Last night was CLASSIC Bobby Cox idiocy.

Braves are hot, and in the chase late. About to win their 6th in a row.

Then what happens?

Donk starts making decisions.

He leaves a tiring starter in too long, and then when he finally does something to try and fix the mess, he makes several more mistakes in succession.

Perhaps frustrated by his own incompetence, he makes himself look like even more of an idiot by arguing balls and strikes - which is THE most useless thing anybody wearing a uniform can do during a game

The man looked like what he is - an inept STOOGE. A DONKEY.

You want the kicker? Here’s Brewers manger Ned Yost

“I had a feeling if we could keep it close we surely would fine a way….”

That’s politically correct code for - we knew that with an idiot managing the other team, we’d get our chances

Here’s CBS Sportsline’s take

“They (the Braves) are at the point even one loss in their final 12 will likely sink them. It’s a shame, too, because their aggressiveness at the trade deadline should have paid off.”

Leaving the reader to figure out the unsaid part - i.e. - whose fault was it that all that talented and those shrewd personel moves came to naught.

Bobby Cox didnt throw a single pitch last night, or take a single swing with the bat (unless he did some damage to the water cooler that we didnt hear about)

But Bobby Cox single-handedly lost that game for the Braves.

And thereby single-handedly destroyed the last vestiges of a chance that this team had for playoff success (heck, for playoff participation even)

By Lew

September 22, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

Paladin-Actually, they should just read Joseph Heller’s book Catch 22. Much superior to the movie. Do it because Yosarian would want you to.

By Lew

September 22, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

ChrisKlob-I was wondering the same thing. Smiter must never have blogged here before and certainly never listened to broadcasts with Joe if he thinks Andruw has gotten any kind of a pass. Maybe we should send N8 to see him and set him straight. BTW-did you notice Seth has an ERA under 4.5? There may be hope for the boy, yet-must bef from not facing Big Papi anymore.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

SG Sorry I overlooked the “surfer” part. Big part. BTW, I tried surfing but was a real spastic. I was quite good on single-ski watersking and someone suggested that the 180% difference in balance point, may have contributed. Anyway, I have great appreciation for the skill that surfing requires.

By Robert

September 22, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

“Robert-May the powers that be save us from unoriginality-both now and forever after. Amen and Selah”

Lew, Lew, Lew

(taking a bite out of a Twinkie and waving it emphatically)

Lew, what could be more unoriginal than claiming that Bobby Cox is a great manager because “everyone else says so”?

(finishing the Twinkie and reaching for a Zinger)

Lew, did you WATCH that frickin stooge in action last night?

By The Grinch

September 22, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

The other difference between hippies and hippie-surfers is that the latter occasionally come in contact with water. :-) And don’t say anything about “roll”ing today…you’ll jinx us. At least Corso picked Alabama so we still have a shot.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

Lew Agree that the book is superior but Braveheart is more “picture” oriented. :>)

By chrisklob

September 22, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

SHUT UP ROBERT.

By Savannah Guy

September 22, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Just Music I’m always out for new music ideas, so I’ll just throw in what CD’s I’m throwin’ in the car this weekend. Not that anyone asked for them or is particularly interested in, but all I would suggest: Modest Mouse (We were dead before the ship even sank), Spoon (Ga Ga Ga…), Big Head Todd and the Monsters (Sister Sweetly), David Gray (White Ladder), Hank Dogs (Half Smile), Stones (Beggar’s Banquet), The Shins (Wincing the Night Away), U2 (haven’t decided which one yet), Dylan (Blonde on Blonde), Jobim (Waters of March), Joe Strummer & the Mescaleros (Global A Go-Go), Coldplay (A Rush of Blood to the Head), Nirvana (Nevermind). Eclectic…some new some old and in between.

Music folks out there…based on the pix here, what do you have that I may not have heard? Older rock and stuff I know pretty well…need new rock (indie/pop/folk/hard/soft…all) ideas.

Well, I’ve got to catch the 3:10 to Yuma. See ya mid to late game.

By chrisklob

September 22, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Lew, hey buddy. Yes, I saw that Seth’s ERA had come down quite a bit. Did you see him pitch Thursday night? I shocked my wife by saying “Come on Seth, get this guy” when he was on the mound! (He was facing Renteria). She looked at me funny and said “You’re pulling for Seth over the Braves?” At that point the Braves had the lead so I felt somewhat safe. And I surely didn’t want Seth to face Chipper because I would really like to see Chipper win the batting title.

Did you ever hear from him or find out anything more about Marcus?

By The Grinch

September 22, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Robert, stop waving your twinkie in the air emphatically in public; it’s unseemly.

It’s too bad the Falcons backfield is composed the way it is; I’m watching Steve Slaton now (West Virginia, 5’10 190) and he’s not big enough to fit our new system.

Paladin, I’ll stick to driving the boat and guarding the cooler, thank you. This Grinch hasn’t the balance for any sort of skiing/surfing.

By Lew

September 22, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

Robert-I’ll agree with you on Connie Mack. I went to numerous games in Cornelius’ Stadium (Pre Veterans Stadium) and it never did well for the Phillies. Then old Connie’s Grandson (of the same name) was my US Senator when I lived in Florida. He wasn’t much better at politics than his grandad was at leading the A’s to glory.

By Lew

September 22, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

ChrisKlob-No, he’s never said another word since he asked for prayers on his brother’s behalf. I haven’t even heard from him since earlier in the season. I know he felt like he had let everyone down when the Rays sent him to Durham-he even sent an email to everyone apologizing for letting us all down (imagine that-a player who holds himself accountable-amazing). I figure with the pennant drive and trying to fit in with a new team, his head is probably spinning-not to mention taking care of property in Florida, etc. and the more mundane realities of trans continental moving. I asked Carroll to tell him we said hello.

By Braveheart

September 22, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

Yep, Taylor Bennett is so much better than Reggie Ball. That was an ugly interception. Tech is back to being Tech.

By d-rock in Scotland

September 22, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

If the most original comment you can make is comparing a man to a donkey, well I think you’ve spent way too much personal time with donkeys. What about the 5 wins before last night? I don’t see anything Bobby did wrong last night.

By Lew

September 22, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

Robert-You should know by now, I’ll never denigrate Bobby. However, I will say he looks very tired this season and things do seem to be getting to him much more than in the past. The only reason I would suggest retirement would be if he was having health issues-which, for all we know, maybe he is. Not making excuses-I do realize this has not been his finest season, for sure, but he hasn’t seemed as on top of things as in the past. Damn-I should have been a lawyer (I should be stricken for even having THAT thought). Was that a worthy tap dance?

By The Grinch

September 22, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

SG, I’d say based on your pix we have very different taste in music. You’re still my boy, though, no matter what Paladin says about you.

Ok, fellers; got a few things to do this afternoon. I’ll be back in time to see my Dawgs stomp ‘bama.

WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF!

By Lew

September 22, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

Robert-I just heard a report on CNN about Twinkies. The producer swears they don’t last forever, just 45 days. Zingers, huh? How about SnoBalls-I like the orange ones for Halloween. I allow myself one every fall. It’s almost time.

By David O'Brien

September 22, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy, try these two new ones: Josh Ritter’s “The Historical Conquests of Josh Ritter” (great singer-songwriter and just rockin’ enough); and since you dig the classic Stones stuff, get Joseph Arthur’s most-recent CD, came out about six months ago, called “Let’s Just Be” (which will make you want to buy some of his older stuff, as you will be amazed that an artist this good could be this relatively obscure), and definitely get the latest CDs by southern rockers Kings Of Leon (“Because of the Times”) and the one by Son Volt (“The Search”) that came out in the spring, if you don’t already have it.

My friend, you will not go wrong with any of those stellar CDs.

By chrisklob

September 22, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Lew, I’m sure he’s got a lot going on. I hope the Brewers make the post-season and that he makes the roster. I didn’t know that he’d sent out that email; it is amazing. Most folks would be pointing the finger everywhere else but at themselves.

I’ll send him a letter once the season ends. He has a girlfriend in Charleston still (last I heard) and comes here in the off-season sometimes to visit. I’d really like to catch up with him. Actually, he promised to give my son (now ten years old) some pitching instruction when he was ready (which he is) and I might remind him of that! Doubt it’ll ever happen, but it doesn’t hurt to ask.

Lew, have you been doing alright? Are you caught up on all your Wurlitzers? Seems like you’ve awarded quite a few of them lately!

By TennesseePaul

September 22, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

chrisklob: It appeared Game Day had at least 3 of those pitches as strikes, or at least, in the strike zone (they flag them as whatever the ump calls them). I noticed ESPN’s K-zone was from just above the knees to right at the belt for nearly every player. Back in my day the zone was from the knees to the letters, if not the arm pits.
It certainly included the zone between the letters and the belt.
That was where all those Mahay pitches were. Don’t know if this will work, but if it does you can pull up the Mahay/Dillon 8th inning at bat and see the location of the pitches. Gameday has the strike zone box at the top, underneath the hitter and pitcher. It shows 3 of the 4 in the zone, all at the top of the zone. Guccione just didn’t give Mahay the high strike.

Braveheart: Sorry. Didn’t mean for you to spend all night thinking of Mariah Carey. Wouldn’t wish that on anyone.

By David O'Brien

September 22, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

Oh, and Savannah Guy, don’t worry about Grinch’s characterization of your musical tastes. For an otherwise cool dude with great taste in movies and books and such, his musical palette is, uh, well … less than adventurous or broad.

Let’s just say he repeatedly is left scratching his head and/or practically howling in protest by the many folks here who grew up or matriculated while digging the sounds of REM.

By David O'Brien

September 22, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

Bravesfan, sorry about that. Thought it was you who had brought pu that payroll-cut rumor the past few days. My bad.

By the way, the rumor you cut-and-pasted here with the AJC attribution, was directly, and I mean word-for-word, taken from Hagen’s column in the Philly Daily News. Word for word. So I don’t know how Foxsports or whatever screwed it up, but it’s just another instance of rumors become “fact” and misrepresented or erroneously attributed as they’re spread feverishly through internet blog sites, rumor mills and chat rooms these days.

By chrisklob

September 22, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

TennPaul, thanks for the link. The only AB it showed was Diaz striking out to end the game. I was just curious if the two trackers showed similar information. Do you know how those pitches are tracked? Done by computer or human?

I find it interesting that the two strike zones are different esp. since there is a specific definition of the zone. I know it differs from umpire to umpire but you’d think that the game trackers would use a standard one.

By Hai Kurate

September 22, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Braves fans obsessing

On Mahay’s pitch location:

Get a life, losers!

By Lew

September 22, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

ChrisKlob-Dude, I just saw two doctors on Thursday and I’m doing just fine. No, I’m not caught up on Wurlitzers-I have four going right now. I don’t think any more will be awarded for a while-Got to catch up first. I would never award one and then not do it. That’s OK-maybe it will help to keep them exclusive. Just because I’m not planning on any awards in the next little bit doesn’t mean people should slack off on their posts. You never can tell-if you come up with something truly Wurlitzer worthy, I’d have to acknowledge it. In the meantime, everyone should pretend I sent them drawings. The posts have been pretty good recently (probably because the Trolls are hibernating). Keep it up.

Savannah Guy-Now don’t let DOB make you think Grinch has no redeeming musical value-the boy does know how to rock and bang them heads-no doubt. That being said-DOB is right on Kings Of Leon. They’re a good NEW southern rock band-definitely NOT the Allman Brothers. Drive By Truckers are good as well, as is Arcade Fire. Beggars Banquet takes me back. May just have to go listen to Let It Bleed. That’s my favorite Stones album. If you get into some of the more hard edged rock, Lillian Axe just released a new CD that I’ve been getting into. Also some older stuff like Asphalt Ballet and some Manfred Mann’s Earth Band-one of the best live bands I ever saw.

By Boog, Journalist

September 22, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

Desert island album nominees:

Car Wheels on a Gravel Road Lucinda Williams

Green River CCR

The Complete Capitol Hits of Faron Young

Life’s Like Poetry Lefty Frizzell

All Killer, No Filler Jerry Lee Lewis

Johnny Cash at Folsom Prison

40 Greatest Hits Hank Williams

When I Stop Dreaming: The Best of the Louvin Brothers

The World’s Greatest Bluegrass Band Bill Monroe and His Blue Grass Boys (with Flatt & Scruggs)

St. Louis to Liverpool Chuck Berry

By Lew

September 22, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Boog-Better if we were stranded on different islands. I couldn’t handle listening just to Creedence very long.

By John Fogerty

September 22, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

F**k off, Lew!

By GermanBravesFan

September 22, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

Well said, d-rock in Scotland! Robert has only one thing to say and he sounds like a broken record.

By Lew

September 22, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Now John Fogerty-Does that mean I have to get rid of all my Creedence CDs and Blue Moon Swamp, too?

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

You know what really makes me feel old? When I read you folks’ taste in “music”. Where is BobJ when I need him?

By chrisklob

September 22, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Paladin, what’s wrong buddy? Did someone scratch your Percy Faith vinyls?

By TennesseePaul

September 22, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

chrisklob: Yeah, I couldn’t get it to go directly to the 8th inning. But you can select the 8th by clicking in the lower left in the Game Summary Area. That will take you to whatever inning you click on and then, just click on the particular batter you wish to see and the pitches will show up.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

No, Klobber, it’s just that Drive by Shooting, Let it Bleed, Arcade Fire, etc. sound more like the evening news.

By Lew

September 22, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Paldin-Uh, Old Fart, Sir-A good bit of the music we’ve been talking about is 30-40 years old.

By Chop Chop

September 22, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Hmm…

I’m scrolling back through all the posts today and there’s only two sentences that stick out in my mind. Allow me to quote from Braveheart’s 7:48 a.m.:

“Roll Tide! I’ll go back to being a Dawgs fan next week.”

Braveheart, you damned polygamist! May a tampon dam up your bloody Crimson Tide!

Grrrrrrrrr…

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

You guys probably think “Pavarotti” is a menu item at Olive Garden.

By Earnest Palfrey

September 22, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Hey everybody. Ya gotta listen to

Tell Me You’re Mine by the Gaylords.

The Gaylords Are a Very Popular Pre-rock Vocal Trio. This record has 54 tracks!!! And it includes all their big hits: “Tell Me You’re Mine”, “Ramona,” “Spinning a Web,” “The Strings of My Heart” and “From the Vine Came the Grape”.

If you don’t get this you’ll be REALLY disappointed.

By Grinch's Head

September 22, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

HEY!!! Speaking of 70’s flicks, anyone ever see The Taking of Pelham One Two Three??? Very good movie about the hyjacking of a subway!! Stars Robert Shaw, Walter Matthau, Martin Balsam, and many more. Screams 70’s, but in a good way. On this Weds AM, 3 AM in fact On Turner Classic.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072251/

By Braveheart

September 22, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Sorry Chop Chop. Love the Dawgs but I gotta go with my alma mater in this one. The wife will always prevail over the mistress.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

OK, I got to go get things done so I’ll be ready for the dawgs vs. Liar-liar- pants-on-fire Nick Saban and his 10th(?)coaching job. But first, and it really pains me.

Nephew There is no such thing as a part-time Dawg. You are either a Dawg every week or you ain’t sh!t. I’ll let you know after the game whether I will forgive you,or not. :>)

By Peter Parker

September 22, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

Very good movie about the hyjacking of a subway!!

Was it as good as when Spiderman had to stop Doc Ock from killing all those people on the runaway train?

My Spidey sense tells me probably not. :o>

I’m just your friendly bloggerhood Spiderman.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

The wife will always prevail over the mistress.

Not if you date fat chicks.

By journalist jimmy smith

September 22, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

cannot blog long. journalist has been looking for more freestone peaches. tonight, a little homemade peach ice cream. yes, homemade by baby seal. in addition to being a babe magnet, baby seal is useful in the kitchen and can do small engine repair. baby seal is working on grinch’s martin ukulele at the moment. not sure baby seal can help with the liver, though. never tempt a seal with liver. and hello to journalist bob who has been the sole journalist blogging for a time here. the more journalists the smarter the blog. some exceptions are made to this rule, though. this blog has undergone some changes of late but so has the braves team undergone changes. imagine chino cadahia in new baseball pants. and someone should speak to chino about the pooch (apologies to julia and rr and anyone else who blogs pooch). now, baseball … journalist was upset when hudson came out of the game but was confident bobby knew what bobby was doing. the television shot of hudson when the run was walked in was telling. who needs wicky to lose a lead? not the braves. and carroll rogers, hello. this journalist continues to blog here but not as much as in the past. dob would miss jimmy smith if jimmy smith were to leave for long. like running out of cheese.

By Braveheart

September 22, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

There is no such thing as a part-time Dawg. You are either a Dawg every week or you ain’t sh!t. I’ll let you know after the game whether I will forgive you,or not.:>)

Spoken like the father of the mistress you are. Not too concerned with what the father of my mistress thinks of me. More worried about my father in law. As you can see from what my father in law paid Lil’ Nicky Satan, he ain’t very rational. If it makes it easier, I’ll make you forgive my mediocrity as a fan by quoting a few biblical passages. It seems to help y’all forgive the mediocrity personified in Mark Richt.

Now Paladin, get back to watching The Two Coreys on A&E. Maybe you’ll stop being a Lost Boy and get your License to Drive if you do, you silly Goonie.

By //////////Berigan\\\\\\\\\\

September 22, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

Well, I was Grinch’s head still it appears, but do check out The Taking of Pelham One Two Three if you like gritty 70’s films…note to self, never change handle before shutting down for the night!;)

By David O'Brien

September 22, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Boog, I’d sub out a few of those, but only a few. Damn fine list (especially Jerry Lee), and one I could certainly be satisfied with on a desert island.

Personally, I’d throw in London Calling by the Clash, one of Cash’s best-of compilation (unless I can take a whole boxed set), probably Elvis Presley’s “From Memphis” album, REM’s best-of IRS years (unless I can take about 75 albums, then I’ll take a few of theirs), a Truckers album, some Waylon, maybe some Social D., definitely some good blues by John Lee Hooker and/or Muddy Waters (you’re stuck on a desert island, after all; you’re f*&%ed and should be blue) … oh, hell. No way I could put together a short list.

Thankfully, with Ipods you wouldn’t have to.

By snuffy smith

September 22, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

So there you are cuzzin’ smith.

Now get on back to your shack and stop all that babblin about peaches

i allus knew that you were a might touched in the head

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

I just got back from the market where I parked beside a Bama fan. I could tell by the flags in the windows and the decal across the back window of the pickup. She was a typical Bama fan. The truck had more tires than she had teeth, and it weren’t no dooley. Also, the exposure of her clothes to Tide had not been recent. Roll tide, indeed.

By //////////Berigan\\\\\\\\\\

September 22, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

What are you guys all going to do on the deserted Island when the batteries run down in the cd player or the ipod?? I guess you hope the professor is nearby to make batteries for you. And that Mary-Ann still looks hot in her 60’s.

By journalist jimmy smith

September 22, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

well, a mysterious blogger has appeared just as jimmy smith returns to the blog. or could it be paladin? hmmm…

greetings from jimmy smith. it is a beautiful day and this journalist is enjoying life. diane lane has called and is coming for a visit. says she has a new banana pudding recipe. we shall see.

By Bob, Journalist

September 22, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

One of my cousins was an illiterate though quite successful farmer … I remember him once refusing to buy medicine for his livestock because the shape of the medicine container had changed … he could drive a tractor, truck and car before he was 15 though he could neither read nor write, able only to write/print his name with difficulty.

As he approached his 16th birthday, my grandmother attempted to help him prepare for the written examination by reviewing past examinations, to which she had access, with him …. when the day arrived, he nervously entered the examination room and, recognizing that he was an uneducated farm boy, the examiner asked “son, how far did you get in school?” … nervous, confused, and thinking it was the first question on the test, he blurted out … 50 feet; the answer to the first question on the last test that he, with Grandma’s help, had “studied” … and coincidently close to the truth.

It’s a true funny story … and he got his license!

Scoots’ wonderment over “how an oft-stated Princeton attendee and possessor of an MBA manages to write like a 13-year-old serial killer of the English language” somehow reminded me of the story which I’ve previously shared on the Blog … his name was Nathan but we called him Buck and be wasn’t a pessimist … he didn’t boast of how far he got in school; he didn’t have to so do … everybody knew that he was the best farmer in the county and that his wife the best cook!

Just as the Examiner easily recognized him for what he was, so too do we recognize those who feel obligated to delineate and extol their own credentials and accomplishments … methinks that in most cases they “smarten up” so as to make their best possible impression … rather than “dumbing down” for the Blog.

Methinks it’s best to just be yourself … that’s what Buck found out … and he done real good!

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

My nightmare would be being on a desert island with Shaun and all his books. Me and my inflatable fat chick would have to do a Tom Hanks in short order.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith I resent the hell out of you “calling me out” in print. And I assure you that if I was after your @$$ you would damn sure know it!

By snuffy smith

September 22, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

cuzzin’ smith you are like one o those dolls with a pull string

they same few things is allus comin outa you: cheese, toes, puddin, ekcetera

the only lane callin you is the ten items or less lane down at the wall mart where you cash your welfare check

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

DOB I have been the victim of libel, or slander if you prefer, on here and I request redress. I ask that the post by jimmy smith “journalist” and the “offending” post(s) be looked at by the proper authority and if the “author” is other than me, and it will be, Smith be banned or required to make a public apology to me. Fair is fair

By Braveheart

September 22, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

The hard part about being stranded on a deserted island with DOB is that he would bring that CD collection.

The rest of us would figure out a way to make a raft out of his CD collection and get the hell off that island. Not DOB. He wouldn’t let us. He’d be perfectly content sitting there on that island grooving out.

Hate to say what we would be forced to do….. but I’d be making a damn raft out of those CDs.

If he decided to go down nicely, we would allow him one CD and leave him there with it.

I guess that would be one way to get DOB to shorten his list -have a bunch of angry people deserted on that island with him willing to kill and cannibalize and who need his CDs to get the hell off the island.

What would the one CD be then DOB?

DOB loves his CDs so much, he would probably get all McGyver or Batman with his CDs.

He’s spent so much time with them, he’s probably trained them to act like boomerangs or killer frisbees he can fling at the would be cannibals with lethal effect without somehow scratching the CDs up.

He probably does not even need to flick his wrist to set the killer CDs out on a killing spree. He just whistles and whispers to them and they do his command on their own.

Or maybe he has not yet learned how to avoid scratching them up? That’s why he’ll bring the easily expendable works of Whitesnake and C&C Music Factory along with him to fling at people.

He’ll also use these expendable CDs to go hunting with and kills animals to eat.

DOB could probably start fires on the deserted island by holding a CD in each hand so as to angle the rays of the sun to incendiary effect on the sticks at his feet.

What good are CDs anyway on a deserted island? Where’s the electricity coming from?

By snuffy smith

September 22, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

i ain’t no paladin i am proud to be snuffy smith of Hootin’ Holler

the only proper authorities i know of are the revenooers

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Braveheart You better go easy on the booze; it’s going to be a long night. :>)

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

“Snuffy” Before I didn’t find you particularly funny. Now, I find you to be hilarious.

By Stinky

September 22, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

Snuffy’s a pistol. Or at least a son of a gun.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

So I thought.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Smith has been eating so many peaches that it has turned his brain to mush, or he could have figured it out, too.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

Now I know how the gun-fighter felt when the streets emptied, the doors closed and the curtains were drawn. This place is so empty it has an echo.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

Stinky We have had our “battles” before and probably will again. But, for now,let me get this settled with Smith. OK?

By David O'Brien

September 22, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, that was funny. Very creative imagination.

I’d use some throway CDs I own, like, say, B-52s or Wallflowers, as weaponry and sun-reflecting fire starters. Or the Prodigy CD, the one with the song “Firestarter” on it….

Berigan, I think Ginger (Tina Louise) was probably hot into her 60s, but not sure about Maryanne.

By journalist jimmy smith

September 22, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

nobody on the blog but paladin and stinky. good time to be doing something else. g’day.

By Peyton Manning

September 22, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

It may be quiet but I’m always here - endorsing something.

Anything you want to buy?

By Stinky

September 22, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

Pally, I don’t recall any “battles” with you, just your cheap shots. But since you’re asking real nice for charitable treatment, there’s a fifty cent piece on its way to you via the US mail. Don’t marry it this time. Just call someone who cares.

By Bob, Journalist

September 22, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

Paladin, be not concerned … the esteemed Ugandan scribbler is most discerning … and be not dismayed, for discernment and appreciation of his gambits is reserved for those the ilk of Gunga Din.

By Stu

September 22, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

Wow, just after the Fox guys, and especially Rosenthal, heap a bunch of praise on Smoltz, he gives up the long ball.

Still, 2 runs on 1 hit thru 6 ain’t too bad. Gotta get some runs.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

OK, I’m going to fix my dinner and get ready for the game. Continue your fascinating “conversation”.

And, I’m going to be having a bacon-wrapped filet mignon(cooked medium rare), a baked potato w/sour cream and chives, a garden salad w/buttermilk dressing and a crusty baguette. All, washed down with copious quantities of chianti. Then, there will be Courvoisier and chocolates.

I feed the jello to the fat chick.

By Savannah Guy

September 22, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

Paladin Just got back. If you haven’t seen 3:10 to Yuma, do it. Great movie. Better than the original.

If I may be so bold good sir…the esteemed Jimmy didn’t “call you out” in the negative sense. Seemed rather playful if you asked me. He has a very sharp quill but a soft side…would not attack unless attacked or so foul that they deserved the sharpness. So, benefit of doubt at least. He knows you’re a good guy…and you are.

By Carroll Rogers

September 22, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

good journalist jimmy. not the same without you

By Mathman

September 22, 2007 6:06 PM | Link to this

If SCar > Georgia,

and LSU >> SCar,

then LSU >>> Georgia.

QED.

By Savannah Guy

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

DOB: Thanks for the recommends. Much appreciated. I’ve heard some Ritter and King’s of Leon, like those a lot but just haven’t gotten around to buying yet. After following the blog for some time (camping here at times) I’ve noticed from your occasional music posts that our taste in music is pretty similar…and also extremely eclectic, so I’m sure I’ll like ‘em a lot. Those, J Arthur and Son Volt are on my shopping list now.

Stones, REM, U2 and so on…have’em all. Staples for many years. As far as country goes, I tend to like most of the old stuff of Hank (Sr. and Jr.), Merle, George, Waylon, Willy, along with some John Anderson and such. And of course add the original MIB - Cash…probably not as much as you, but love a lot of his old stuff.

Grinch…nah, wouldn’t worry. If he howls at my music I’ll just throw him some ear-plugs, buy him a beer and we’ll be fine. Probably even have some stuff he’d like…unless it’s Jim Croce or Marilyn Manson or such…then he’s on his own.

By whiff

September 22, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

stinky u r my hero

By Savannah Guy

September 22, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

Lew: Thanks bro. You and I agree on favorite Stones album, Let it Bleed. Classic stuff…all of it. Still holds up like it was created yesterday. Ironically, Jagger could have been a country star if he hadn’t been busy with great rock, with that twang. Hank Sr. would’a loved it. Arcade Fire yes…have some and love it. Allman Brothers early stuff with Dwayne, especially Eat A Peach, also love but rarely listen to anymore. I’ll check out Drive By Truckers and your other recommends. Never can have enough good music.

Ok Bravos, time to win it with a walk off…

By tanyon & kelly

September 22, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this

hi we’re tanyon & kelly two teenage girls. savannah guy you sound real enthusiastic. we like that in a guy. what high school do you go to?

By Teddy Jack Eddy

September 22, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this

This game is yet more proof this team’s problems are about more than pitching.When a major league team can’t bunt, hit and run or in general play smart baseball it’s not going anywhere.I love Bobby Cox he’s meant everything to this franchise but it’s time for new blood.Who honestly thinks these problems will be fixed without a different approach ? John Smoltz should have 19 wins by now,I feel bad for him.

By does anybody here care about baseball

September 22, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

That’s it. Braves are toast.

By GermanBravesFan

September 22, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

Okay.. .just waiting for Robert to come on and explaining how Bobby Cox (possibly) lost today’s game..

Since most are talking about music: I am excited about the upcoming release of Bruce Springsteen’s next album (“Magic”). I saw the first video on amazon and the song rocked! Looking forward to the tour (got tix for Oakland!).

By Savannah Guy

September 22, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

Boog: Thanks…good list. Lucinda Williams is good isn’t she. Have many of them, but not Louvin Bros. I’ll check’em out. Not crazy about bluegrass for some reason unless it’s live…have seen Doc Watson a few times…great live show, small venue.

Desert Isle? For how long? Hmm…I’ll have to go with Fiona Apple. No, make that Sarah McLaughlin. Definately Sarah…oh, and she can bring her favorite music too.

By Stu

September 22, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

Good for Scott!

By Steve from OH

September 22, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

I cannot believe what I just saw!

By Savannah Guy

September 22, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

Thor? Home run? Whoa, was that the first hit in…ah, nevermind. Good for Thorman. Good for Bravos. Now one more…

By Knarly Guy

September 22, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this

Tanyon—that’s a cool name,are you into keg partys ? Me and my buds are like, having one tonight and you’re like, totally invited.You can even like, bring your friend. I hope she’s not like, totally heinous, but if she is I won’t like, let my buds get all ironic on her or nothin.

By GermanBravesFan

September 22, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this

Thorman?????

By tanyon & kelly

September 22, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this

ooh oakland. we wouldn’t go there. that’s like in the bad part of america isn’t it? out west past mexico? we wouldn’t even go there if we ran away from home. but we wouldn’t do that. algebra is not THAT bad.

By Savannah Guy

September 22, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

Tanyon and Kelly, you two go home to your mother and wash your mouths out with soap. But thank you for your little dig…you can giggle now as you skip home.

By GermanBravesFan

September 22, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this

okay.. now I am waiting for Robert to come on and tell us how Bobby Cox screwed up for not starting Thorman.. lol

By R

September 22, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox…genius…saving Scott Thorman for exactly the right time.

By tanyon & kelly

September 22, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

savannah guy you’re cute. we’re already home. we’re in kelly’s room using her mac and listening to justin timberlake. he’s AWESOME. if you want us to really like you you’ve GOT to like justin timberlake.

By Savannah Guy

September 22, 2007 7:21 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Funny post…killer frisbees and what not. Hey, since your uncle and wing man is cookin’ steaks and drinking something other than umbrella drinks, sombody needs to crash his party, strap on the feed bag and calm his jets down. I’ll throw in some Righteous Brothers and Frank Sinatra to take over. I can’t join, since I’m taking my Savannah Lady to dine.

OK Braves, second chance to get a run and end this thing on a good note…

By Knarly Guy

September 22, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this

Tanyon—wow you like,know derections and stuff.My last babe was like totally smokin hot but she didn’t like,know Mexico is out west or wherever.You must like.travel or have a map or somethin.Either way you’re my kind of babe and I can’t wait to get you like,keggerized and sweaty and stuff.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy Just returned and quickly before “the* game. I like you. I respect you. And, I trust you. And, I understand what you are trying to do. But, if he had “playfully” used *Savannah Guy” instead of “Paladin”, would you still feel it was so harmless?

Stinky Your reactions do not surprise me. You lack the basic prerequisite for a “gentlemen’s” agreement. And, your name says it all.

By David O'Brien

September 22, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

GermanBravesFan, the Boss recorded it here in Atlanta with the E-Street Band and producer extraordinaire Brendan O’Brien. Or BOB, I guess.

Savannah Guy, Sarah or Miranda Lambert for the desert isle.

By the way, you want to hear some great old country, find Bobby Bare’s “20 Bare Essentials.”

Great singer/songwriter, and I also love his cover of Tom T. Hall’s “How I Got To Memphis” on it, and also his cover of “Sylvia’s Mother.”

By Stinky

September 22, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this

Is this how cheeseheads enjoy the high life?

By GermanBravesFan

September 22, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

BRAVES WIN!!!! Darn… where were those close wins about a month ago…

Knaryl Guy: I think Tanyon and her friend represented Georgia at the Miss Teen USA competition. They, too, could not answer the question why a fairly high percentage of Americans cannot find the USA on a map… ;-)

By ppaddy123

September 22, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

OK OK No direspect to Andruw, but who do we think will be playing center field for the Braves next year? Matter of fact, that would be a good poll question for the AJC.

By GermanBravesFan

September 22, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

DOB: I think I remember your mentioning that you saw The Boss with Brendan O’Brien at a show in Atlanta. Must have been while they were working on the album. Looking forward to the Oakland show on Oct. 26 - even though this means I won’t make the alumni reunion at Georgia College in Milledgeville. Gotta have one’s priorities!

By tanyon & kelly

September 22, 2007 7:40 PM | Link to this

knarly guy we bet you are kevin henderson from study hall. leave us alone. you are so knarly bad you are like knarlzilla. you are so knarsk that you are downright knarpy.

By Savannah Guy

September 22, 2007 7:40 PM | Link to this

Blog Rule Number 884: When the blog get’s overrun by little boys posing as little girls and other silly picking trolls, stay at your own risk. If near dinner time…leave early. If not, leave early anyway. Unless you have a high threshold for inane behavior. They’ll be gone in an hour or so. Hopefully to a Mets blog.

For further clarification, see RROE by the esteemed William Wallace.

G’nite.

By GermanBravesFan

September 22, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

ppaddy123: If he’s not chosen to manage the Braves, I think Robert will take over the duties from Andruw. Riding his donkey, he’ll be able to cover center and left field!

By Knarly Guy

September 22, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

GermanBravesFan——I was like bummed for a week when I heard we like don’t have maps for poor kids and stuff.I think it’s because of the communist or whoever.I’m like thinking about like joining the army or somethin and fighting the French of whoever.I don’t really like care who they are.This is like America and we should have really good maps and stuff.

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy I agree and I’m gone too. Talk to you tomorrow.

By tanyon & kelly

September 22, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

milledgeville? did they like name a whole town after a mets player? the mets must be pretty good, huh. theres like noplace name teixeiraville. oh and kelly said chipperville. theres no chipperville either.

By Stinky

September 22, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

Savannah G@y has left the building.

By It's over, it's over, it's oooooover

September 22, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

I see “Paladin” wants to ban JJS. Paladin has been here for 2(?) months, and wants the cornerstone of this blog banned.

What a punk. Go give your dog a bath. While you’re at it, bathe yourself, it’s hard to tell the both of you apart.

The Braves win when it makes absolutely not one iota of difference if they win or not. Poor Smoltz. Did Chipper intentionally hit into that DP to get Smoltz back? Would Chip do that? I doubt it. Chip wants that batting crown. GO CHIPPER!

By Savannah Guy

September 22, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

Paladin Before I run out the door to eat (it’s your fault I’m craving a filet mignon), to answer your question…yes, I’d think it playful. If not, I’d just simply ask for clarification. But as I well know, molehills turn into mountains…and before ya know it, um…whatever. Hell, WW and I once beat each other to a pulp for absolutely no reason…before and after that he was one of my favorite denizens, so I won’t preach here. Stuff happens.

So chill, good friend. Don’t want to be eating that good dinner on an upset stomach. Now for my steak dinner I’m away. I’ll toast you and Jimmy. Both good guys in my book. Both needed here.

Hey, I’m craving a nice Chianti also…I’m blaming Grinch for that. Thanks guys for the food/wine suggestions.

By Knarly Guy

September 22, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

It’s kegger time dudes WOOOOOOOOO,GO GEORGIA.Seriously folks,have a good night all.

By bruce vilanch

September 22, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this

Paladin has been here for 2(?) months, and wants the cornerstone of this blog banned.

If someone pretending to be a ugandan journalist while prattling on like a six year old about peaches is the cornerstone of this blog then we had best evacuate immediately.

By RED TIDE

September 22, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

It’s 2000 + Saban, baby! Doggies look out!

By It's over, it's over, it's oooooover

September 22, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this

If someone pretending to be a ugandan journalist while prattling on like a six year old about peaches is the cornerstone of this blog then we had best evacuate immediately.

No one would miss you.

By journalist jiminy cricket

September 22, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

little jimmy smith runs in cycles, he returns, he insults, he get’s his azz handed to him, he leaves, he trolls for sympathy, he returns, etc.

this journalist fails to see the ‘brilliance’ of jimmy smith, must be hiding away with the ‘genius’ of john schuerholz, as far as this journalist is concerned jimmy smith is just a dumber version of stinky, and a nutcase.

By Steve

September 22, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this

Regarding the upcoming new Springsteen album “Magic” — the album leaked a couple of weeks ago and much of the hard-core fan base has been listening on mp3s during this time. Most think that it’s a masterpiece. Some think it’s Springsteen’s best since “Tunnel of Love” in 1987. Some think it’s his best since “Born in the USA” in 1984. Some think it’s his best since “The River” in 1980. Some think it’s his best since “Darkness on the Edge of Town” in 1978. And some think it’s his best since “Born to Run” in 1975. It is a great great rock and roll record, and far more retro than “The Rising” was.

By TennesseePaul

September 22, 2007 9:03 PM | Link to this

Great Game. Glad to see the team bounce back like that from last night’s loss. Stuck this one out and provided the W. Smoltz… what can you say about this guy. It’s like he just gets better and better.

GO BRAVES!!

By It's over, it's over, it's oooooover

September 22, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

This journalist fails to see the ‘brilliance’ of jimmy smith, must be hiding away with the ‘genius’ of john schuerholz, as far as this journalist is concerned jimmy smith is just a dumber version of stinky, and a nutcase.

Yeah, I guess you’re right. Reading Braveheart, Paladin, and Savanah Guy really pique my interest. Great tomes of wisdom and humour.

By Carroll Rogers

September 22, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

not sure how this fits into where this blogging has been going, but i think i just saw some killer instinct. hey, it took a while for it to catch on, and this whole thing will all probably be over in another day or two. but i’m taking this brief time out to call a spade a spade.

jiminy crickets…from the sounds of it, it must be saturday night! we forget sometimes which day it is, when we’re covering the ole beat. but i’m about to go enjoy it like you guys have apparently been!

By GermanBravesFan

September 22, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

Steve - good to hear the “reviews” of the new Springsteen album. Can’t wait to get it!

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

September 22, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

Carroll , I can appreciate the optimism. However , Smoltz is having his greatest season and has 14 wins. He won the Cy Young with 24 wins in 1996. The question is , why the disparity of ten games. The offense is fine , the defense is good , the bullpen has done the job for the most part but John Smoltz has T-E-N fewer wins. The runs support in 96 was 5.32 per game , this season 4.68 , Smoltz had 35 starts in 96 and 31 so far this year. Those two factors explain some of the reason for the ten win gap. Some of it…..but , Leo ain’t here is he ? and Cox is making the pitching decisions. Smoltz has 26 quality starts , the team has 18 wins during his starts. However , Hudson has 24 quality starts and the team 22 wins during his starts. Has it been bad luck for Smoltz or is there something more going on behind the scenes that we the fans can’t see ?

By Paladin

September 22, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

**BRAVEHEART, I FORGIVE YOU!!!!

By Bob, Journalist

September 22, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this

Paladin, I can’t speak for anyone else but myself … but Jimmy has in the past so used “Journalist Bob” and others … and it’s license used for effect. I can’t imagine anyone seriously taking offense st such rhetoric from Jimmy … at least I couldn’t until I saw your reaction.

I honestly thought that you had been victimized by identity thieves who were attempting to make trouble from whole cloth.

By robdawg06

September 22, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

I guess the Braves multi-millionaires have early fall off… After losing to the likes of the Reds and Nationals a mnonth ago and falling from 4 to 8 games back its not suprising. Even the Phillies with Utley and Rowand on the DL for weeks played better than the Braves. Someone start a fund to retire Bobby Cox. I’ll add my $20 bucks. I’m a disappointed Braves fan again. Thank you Smoltz,Hudson,Chipper,Escobar,K.Johnson,M.Diaz,and Francoeur for you effort that was wasted by your inept teammates. You guys are winners. The rest need to take a long look into their mirrors. The reflections ain’t too pretty…

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 23, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

In the immortal words of the GIGCO caveman… “What?”

By Deception

September 23, 2007 12:25 AM | Link to this

No good reason whatsoever for anyone to use another blogger’s cognomen, with or without said blogger’s permission, other than to deceive other bloggers! Unacceptable……

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

September 23, 2007 12:28 AM | Link to this

Braves win in extra innings , Georgia wins in OT , Tech loses ( I sincerely hope Correy Earls is OK), made 85 bucks in a yard sale , watched both the Braves and Dawgs games , it’s a near perfect Saturday !

By The Grinch

September 23, 2007 12:42 AM | Link to this

WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF!

By The Grinch

September 23, 2007 1:13 AM | Link to this

No, you’re not getting away with it, DOB. Because I don’t like that particular kind of music I’m narrow minded? Umm, no. Look through my music collection (Big old Victrola records[both glass, yes glass, and vinyl], cassetes, 8-tracks, 45 and 33 1/3 vinyl and cd’s) and you’d be mighty surprised at what you’d find. I don’t just have 1500 copies of Slayer’s “Reign in Blood,” dude. Quite a wide variety. You might even be surprised at how I’m as apt to sound like Freddie King as I am Tony Iommi when I’m playing (not that I’m anywhere near as good as either, but that I go for vastly different tones according to mood)…this doesn’t come from innate ability as much as it comes from practice at a WIDE VARIETY of music. Guess what? Not liking REM doesn’t make me a cretin; it just means I was going in a different direction during that time and who knows; you might have missed out a bit yourself from sticking with that. You are not the be-all and end-all of the entire scope of musical reckoning; there are other accomplished bands than what you may have on your I-pod. MY KUNG FOO IS UP TO THE TASK. :-) HOO-AH.

By the repairman

September 23, 2007 1:14 AM | Link to this

Grinch there seems to be a problem with your WOOFer but your tweeter is ok.

By Chop Chop

September 23, 2007 1:20 AM | Link to this

The Dawgs, at first, manhood condemned.

The Crimson Tide, a foe to dread.

The Crimson Tide, at long last, stemmed.

The Dawgs, victorious, I rest my head.

And…Munson? Get your a$$ to bed!

Goodnight, Dawg fans!

WOOF, WOOF, WOOF!!!

By journalist jimmy smith

September 23, 2007 1:28 AM | Link to this

journalist returns to find jimmy smith has created quite a stir on the blog. not to worry. jimmy smith does not plan to be a frequent contributor.

the blog has dumbed down so badly that people even blog with stinky and stinky’s many other monikers.

now, paladin must want to fight with this peaceful journalist. jimmy smith meant no harm to paladin - only noting that paladin seemed to be about the only one blogging (but for stinky). take it for irony or take it for sarcasm. don’t take it for meanness.

anyway, paladin, we can be friends or we can match wits for a time. and there is no flight simulator to prepare paladin for what paladin will experience if paladin chooses to gig jimmy smith again.

and the cricket appears and disappears and so do the other screen names attached to the ip address of the stinky blogger. journalist is not asking that blogger to like jimmy smith’s posts or even to read them (sometimes jimmy smith blogs making use of multi-syllable words and stinky probably can’t read those posts with comprehension).

what is it about jimmy smith that makes that blogger react so?

must be the casseroles that make stinky so odious a personality. that’s right, casseroles. everyone knows that shut-ins get lots of church-lady casseroles. and surely stinky is a shut-in. can’t go out in public with that odious personality.

and here is a big “hello” to carroll rogers. this journalist thinks carroll rogers is a credit to this blog and to the ajc. of course, dob isn’t chopped liver (sorry grinch, did grinch get the liver fixed yet?).

and as for pie and peaches and such … a man with no enjoyment of such pleasures is shallow and surely devoid of good character. perhaps that inadequacy could prompt the ugly personal posts.

soon, stinky will return to the ugly personal attacks and sexual and racial innuendo that got stinky banned before. call it meltdown. usually occurs late at night while others of us are enjoying pillow talk with a beautiful woman. no pillow talk for stinky unless stinky is calling stinky’s soiled pillow “darlin’.”

and whither matthew, walter’s dad? someone must make contact and find out how matthew and walter are doing.

and when will the scribe host the fish fry? talk about delay …

and journalist thanks all who have been kind to defend this journalist and this journalist’s honorable intentions that were surely misunderstood. sort of makes jimmy smith wonder why such a short fuse …

and then, the braves … the season will end and memories will linger of running redman out there again and again and wilson and woodward and of letting andruw bat clean-up forever.

doesn’t matter if the wins come early or late if they add up at the end to one more than the team in second place.

let the meltdown begin.

By //////////Berigan\\\\\\\\\\

September 23, 2007 1:34 AM | Link to this

Man, didn’t this used to be a baseball blog about the Braves??? semi ;)

Braves played a hell of a game, and Cox didn’t really screw up once that I recall, but truth be known, I did miss a few innings! full ;)

How about Joey Devine coming out on top with the bases loaded? Well, perhaps that was a Cox boo-boo…having him walk a guy with his wild side…got to 3-1 with the next guy but got him to pop up. Thorman and Devine will sleep well tonight!!!

By //////////Berigan\\\\\\\\\\

September 23, 2007 1:43 AM | Link to this

Now Grinch,

I think one thing we can all agree on is that my music taste and cd collection is far better than yours or DOB!!!:)

Bet you don’t have any Edison Laterals or Wax cylinders do you??? Me neither. I do have some of my Grandfather’s one sided 78’s.

I have several Miff Mole cds…bet no one here is cool enough to have any of his cds!!! I have every Megadeth cd except the last one. That makes me incredibly cool as well. And before anyone wants to start a Megadeth vs. Metallica war, I have all but one of their cds as well, so there!

Funny thing is, most of my cd collection is jazz. Not ONE REM cd though….

By //////////Berigan\\\\\\\\\\

September 23, 2007 2:11 AM | Link to this

JJS,

No reason to leave here over one or two people. Even the most popular politicians have 40% of their constituents vote against them. There is always going to be someone that doesn’t like us is this world, right? Some people we come across face to face in our daily life don’t like us, but say it behind our back….do as you please, but I hate to see people leave, cuz it gives those troublemakrs that stay more power to try to get others goats and get them to leave as well. Just a power trip for those.

By uga-brave

September 23, 2007 2:20 AM | Link to this

PALADIN, BRAVEHEART,,

HOW BOUT THEM DAWGS, staff looked great.

braveheart , good luck to your nephew, semper FI.

By uga-brave

September 23, 2007 2:26 AM | Link to this

first of all,

i will defend myself about GOLDEN BOY all day. he aint that good.

WHAT A PASS BY STAFF, right on the money. great throw, certain guys get it, some guys dont.

By uga-brave

September 23, 2007 2:32 AM | Link to this

for all you FRANCOEUR, fans he hits like a middle infielder. no power to the opp field. could not hold HOSS’S jock.

By The Grinch

September 23, 2007 2:40 AM | Link to this

Wow, that was awesome. Whoo.

Anyhoo, Berigan, surely you’re aware that both Metallica and Megadeth both quit recording alblums after 1990 (though a band by the same name as Metallica did a damn good cover of Ennio Morricone’s “Ecstasy of Gold” recently). No alblums after the fourth count for either. And quit playing with my tweeter.

WRONG AGAIN, DAVE. :-)

G’night, all.

By uga-brave

September 23, 2007 2:47 AM | Link to this

WE will be doomed with a fat catcher, and a overrated RIGHT FIELDER. KINDA MISS JAYY, dont you think?

By uga-brave

September 23, 2007 2:57 AM | Link to this

DOB,

man i love your blog, always will.

but tell me how is this season better for frenchy than the last?

same extra base hits. dont care about the avg. NO POWER OR STOLEN BASES.

would trade him in a minute for a great pitcher.

By //////////Berigan\\\\\\\\\\

September 23, 2007 3:04 AM | Link to this

Grinch, Blasphemy!!! Countdown to extinction * rocks Daddy-O, and you know it!!! As does Risk. Well, anyway, some good melodies, hey it’s better than REM at least! :)

By Double Deuce

September 23, 2007 3:09 AM | Link to this

jjs I’m not a regular contributor here, but I can tell you this blog would. be less entertaining without your presence. Tiffs come and go on this blog and are usually the result of some misinterpreted comment or observation. Wayne in Utah once set me straight, and I’ve never looked back nor took offense. Methinks you are a denizen of the first class and should not let misunderstandings stop you from contributing as you always do.

By uga-brave

September 23, 2007 3:13 AM | Link to this

what do you think THE GREAT VOICE WAS DOING AT THE END?\

poor larry was thinking about a HOB nailed boot or a missed fieldgoal.

but then again he was probably worried about the weather.

By //////////Berigan\\\\\\\\\\

September 23, 2007 3:16 AM | Link to this

UGA-Brave,

Man, you are close to getting Robertian on this Frenchy thing! ;) Reread my 5:32 AM post on Frenchy. Dude, he is hitting .350 with RISP, what more do you want of him, to hit more homers, and hit .260 like Andruw does, err, I mean did??? I’ll take Frenchy’s .341 With RISP and 2 outs over Andruw’s .165 RISP, 2 out B.A.

What did Mike Schmidt do when he was 23? He hit 18 homers, and hit a robust .196. Hit slugged an amazing .373 that year. Clearly he was never going to become a power hitter.

And Frenchy has brown hair, anyway.

There, that is settled, lets go back to bashing the Mets, and rooting for the fightin’ Phils!!!!

By uga-brave

September 23, 2007 3:30 AM | Link to this

if you even compare # 25 to fracnoeur you are smoking really bad drugs.

i aint robert, he hates BOBBY, i dont have hatred for # 7 j ust think he is media created.

By uga-brave

September 23, 2007 3:33 AM | Link to this

berigan,

in two years i will be proved right.

By Serbok

September 23, 2007 3:39 AM | Link to this

Geeze, At the risk of “blogging” I shall post again? I have been kinda “lax” on the blog~ when WE were in contention I usually read every word, Now I come onto the Blog to see JJS post @ 1:28 AM? I have read the last few posts from bottom up and stopped a JJS* post. I obviousley do not know (yet) what caused you sirJJS* to post such nonsense? However I do want to impart to you, that about 18 mos ago I discovered this blog, and YOU my Friend! Stood head and shoulders above the rest of the ppl blogging on here, I Enoyed your humor and wit tremendously. However, now? I do not understand the reasoning behind your post? Surely!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A person as talented as yourself is not going to leave us do to some AZZhole? No way, Do I see that happening!

By uga-brave

September 23, 2007 3:43 AM | Link to this

our future is about # 7. our banrkoll is about the GWINNETT county all stars.

AS FOR ME love bmacs talent, plus hitter in a non hitter position. sorry all you FRANCOEUR lovers but he is AVG. dont give me that crap about a great arm. right fielders all hit for more .ops than he does.

By uga-brave

September 23, 2007 3:47 AM | Link to this

VINCENT PRICE IS THAT YOU. BOOOH, AHH, GOTTA LOVE THE vampire.

By uga-brave

September 23, 2007 3:53 AM | Link to this

sebrok, guaratee i am the only DAWG fan waiting for the replay on ESPN.

by the way, i like BILL MAHER, JUST CANT STAD JEAANE GARROFALO.

By uga-brave

September 23, 2007 3:59 AM | Link to this

SEBROK,

you left coast liberal, how is it going?

By uga-brave

September 23, 2007 4:02 AM | Link to this

turn on ESPN MY BOYS.

By Serbok

September 23, 2007 4:27 AM | Link to this

JJS Read thru about the last three hours of posts~ The idiotic statements from what I can discern, were made by a poster whom the rest of the blog hasnt caught onto yet, Course I may be incorrect (WRONG) but I do not think so~ the posts all have inherently distinguishable styles. The guy should be ashamed of himself as he talks out of both sides of his mouth:o( I contend he is using 3 different monikers. One of the Monikers seems to have this blog appreciating his appearance on the blog, while at the same time, he is an instigator. Really is not that difficult to figure out? UNLESS OF COURSE I’M WRONG LOL

By Serbok

September 23, 2007 4:32 AM | Link to this

uga-brave Whats up my friend? Was readin the blog~ to find out about JJS disgust? Still cannot understand your take on JF? NOW If you were talkin ‘bout BC I could totally understand:o) HE is the reason we will NOT be in the playoffs?

By Serbok

September 23, 2007 4:39 AM | Link to this

I once saw a movie about Al Capone. In his later years if the book and the movie were correct? He spent his last few months “fishing” in his swimming pool.(due to syphyllis) Some reason I see Bobby very soon sitting at the dinner table saying: please pass thu gulden’s. Then suddenly ranting~ about balls and strikes! SAD VERY Sad:o(

By Serbok

September 23, 2007 4:45 AM | Link to this

UGA *SEBROK,

you left coast liberal, how is it going? LOL I urge all Bloggers to type in the Word Blackwater into google :o)

By Bravo Nam

September 23, 2007 6:47 AM | Link to this

DOB

I noticed you mentioned Detroit might be a trade partner for the Braves in relation to Edgar. What about Minnesota? There has been quite a bit of speculation out that way that now might be the time to trade Santana and get some good value before he becomes a free agent.

Whether the Braves package Edgar and some prospects, or another package entirely, do you think they’ll make a run at Santana? Who do you think the Braves would have to give up to get him?

By Mike Mills

September 23, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

We were playing a club in Augusta way back in the day.

We were really thrashing that night, and so Stipe asks the audience if they’d like to hear anything special and this one guy yells out: “How about a chord change?”

Come to think of it, we still get that request while playing warm up gigs. What does that mean?

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 9:38 AM | Link to this

Now…two of my favorite denizens on this blog must forget the dustup in the BlogBar last night. A toe was inadvertently stepped on, a challenge was made, a challenge was accepted and the retort became terse and tense (can those T words all go in the same sentence?)…fortunately no fight ensued. That bespeaks of cool heads and gentlemanly behavior prevailing. When the sun rises in the East, it will seem no more that a little bump in the night. We need all good denizens on board for the remainder of this season. Especially the good ones.

And, did William Wallace get our young fighting man nephew a beer or two and give him a proper sendoff. Will the blog get a (G-Rated) report? Does WW have a bit of a hangover on this fine morning? So many questions.

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

jjs I take your word, and others, that what you said was not malicious and admit to my having over-reacted. I guess what really “set me off” is that I have never had anything but the utmost respect for you, and admiration for your posts, that have always been highlights. Nor, have I ever posted anything to, or about you, that did not reflect that—until yesterday when I posted some derogatory things for which I am sorry.

I hope that you will not let “Stinky” get you down and that you will continue to be the blog’s cornerstone, as you have been for so long.

Good day to you, sir.

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this

Good Denizen and Esteemed Journalist Jimmy Smith, I hope it was a combination of the late hour, the swarming of trolls and such that caused you to consider staying away. Do not let your heart be troubled or your pen silent. This blog needs you, your humor and your Braves perspective.

“what is it about jimmy smith that makes that blogger react so?”

The Jiminy Cricket, stinky and other such changelings do seem to aim for you a bit more than most although most of the regular denizens get that…I’ve had my share as well. You already know the answer but I’ll add: Stinky and the band of trolls (or same troll) are jealous of your life outside of the blog, but mostly they covet your unique humor and writing ability. Since they don’t possess that, they wish to stop yours.

In Russia and other communist countries, the mentality that was and still is prevalent in areas: If one works hard, saves their money and buys a cow to provide their family with milk, their neighbor is not happy for them. Quite the contrary; they are angry that you have a cow and they don’t. They also don’t want to take a lesson or be inspired to work hard themselves to do the same.

Instead, they would rather kill your cow so that no one in the neighborhood has milk. In that way, they believe that they are equal, without having to work hard to earn. They do not want the bar raised. For them, killing your cow is socially justifiable and much quicker and easier than having talent, developing a skill or working hard.

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

SG Your cow analogy would do BobJ proud. :>)

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this

Good Denizen and Esteemed Fighter Pilot Paladin, after that steak dinner, Braves win and Dawgs win, I hope you are feeling chipper this fine Sunday morning. Uh, let me rephrase that…I mean, I know you like our third baseman and everything but, um…well, you know what I mean.

I watched that game…wow what a finish. Rollercoaster game. Missed kick that would have been as amazing as the incredible pass that succeeded. Dawgs prevailed. Looking at last night’s Blog docket, seems the after-game late night crowd filled in and whooped it up. No, make that Woofed it up. Great win for the boys.

Oh, don’t let that sore toe hobble you today. It was just a chain reaction to what started out as… whatever, you know what I’m saying. See you during the game. Gotta run.

By Rasputin

September 23, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this

It’s a well known fact that all Russians hate cows.

By Bob, Journalist

September 23, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this

In Russia and other communist countries, the mentality that was and still is prevalent in areas seems also to be the prevalent mentality of parasites in capitalistic countries as well … methinks losers aren’t limited to any particular economic system or ideology.

By Bob, Journalist

September 23, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

Speaking of sore toes … nobody stepped on mine but I broke two yesterday afternoon …

later …

By Rasputin

September 23, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

Toes are not to be trifled with.

By Salty

September 23, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

Positive thought for the day: could, would, … will the Braves be within a game of a playoff berth come next Friday/Saturday? Our Braves have relentlessly teased us all season, why not one last shot at hyper-ventilating?!? Then again, we might just exhale this PM>

The ‘blog’ has an imposter odor to it…again. Sad…very sad.

By journalist jimmy smith

September 23, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

oh, the humanity! journalist bob has hurt two toes. will bob go on the d.l. like someone else we uh, know with uh, bad toes? not sure how many (could be a rumor).

bob, soak those toes in listerine. seems like that was what carolina lady told dob to do awhile back.

now, thanks to all the bloggers who were kind to this journalist. jimmy smith does not wish to leave the blog permanently and please don’t think jimmy smith threatens to leave for sympathy as charged by the insignificant stinky blogger - but, this journalist was abused and maligned for many months on this blog by the stinky blogger. ugly comments. sexual in nature. racial, too. the ugly blogger took jimmy smith’s name and posted ugly posts as if he were jimmy smith. tried to start fights with others this journalist respects.

been there. done that. can read a book and not have to deal with that again.

jimmy smith derives enjoyment from this blog. perhaps jealousy creates the nemesis who tries to rob journalist of that enjoyment.

the ugly one also was rude to dob - and to others. then, the blog reacted and demanded banishment. the culprit dim-wittedly continued to post ugly posts and babble back and forth among his several personalities. and then was banned. that’s right, banned from a baseball blog. oh, the humiliation!

well, blogging was enjoyable for a time. quite enjoyable. now, the stinky blogger has returned as good guy, bad guy. free country, right?

ajc, defender of freedom of speech. loosely interpreted here for certain. can say most anything about jimmy smith and get away with it.

not saying stinky shouldn’t blog, just saying journalist won’t choose to regularly blog here while stinky does so.

jimmy smith may pop in here and there. and no doubt will suffer slings and arrows. still, as the blog sees numerous regular contributors leave perhaps some thought will be given to the character (or lack therof) of the bloggers blogging here.

now, journalist has this to say: toes are not to be trifled with. banana pudding is heaven. peach ice cream is next to heaven. butter pecan is pretty special, too.

thinking of banana pudding and of ice cream, a special hello to diane lane and virginia madsen.

go braves! play in october.

p.s. serbok is very perceptive in serbok’s observation. nice job.

p.p.s. to paladin, thanks.

p.p.p.s. journalist bids all a good day.

final salutation: oh, the humanity!

By Lew

September 23, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

Journalist Jimmy leaving again? Temporarily? UGABrave and Robert in need of Obsessives Anonymous. Journalist Bob stumbles getting out of the hot tub and breaks toes? Another typical day on the blog. As the Man In Black Turns? Oh, The Humanity!!!! I think I need a Twinkie.

By brent a.

September 23, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

Andruw’s last game. I hope he gets a standng Ovation in his last at-bat. Not for this season, but for the total package.

I’ll never forget running up and down the halls in my freshman dorm during game 1 of the ‘96 World Series, celebrating the 2nd of Andruw’s 2 homers that Sunday night.

Sad to see how this one has ended, but over-all, Andruw has been a pleasure to watch.

My apologies for not making it over myself.

Go Braves!

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 23, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Good afternoon all, BobJ After all the information on good toe health disseminated on the blog….. I feel sorry for you my friend, especially with your upcoming trip to the left coast. I fear there is absolutely nothing beyond the Advil or Wild Turkey (your choice) that will help. It is why I leave a light on.

JJS A huge void would be left by your absence, something like ripping a hole in the universe…

Lew Do you like or can you eat peanuts?

By BossLady

September 23, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

The way JS was starring down Andruw and Bobby Friday night, I wouldn’t be surprised to see some bigger changes in the Braves than any of us would expect to happen to the team. The mention of Yost’s family and children, his East Cobb home and his pulling into the parking lot at Turner was so touching. Glavine and large amount of ex-Braves make their homes here and that is saying a lot about this area. They have as much money to live anywhere they want but yet choose to remain with our fair Southern Town. As a Southern Baptist lady, I offer my most sincere apologies to the things I have said and thought about Thorman. I truly thank him for saving our team last evening.

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Braveheart where art thou Braveheart? All is forgiven. Come back to the flock so that we may celebrate your epiphany.

By Carroll Rogers

September 23, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

coach, not totally sure what you’re getting at with the smoltz question about his disparity in wins. some kind of conspiracy theory? run support does mean a lot when it comes to wins and losses and that run total you mentioned in 96 might mean something different than it does now. a run now is cheaper than a run 11 years ago because the game has changed. more offense now. plus he was 11 years younger, might have been staying in games longer, giving himself more of an opportunity to get the decision.

not sure if i’m answering your question but i’m tryin

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Talk about whimpering for sympathy and audacity. This sheep is leaving.

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

The esteemed and newly hobbled Bob, Journalist: Two toes…at once? How on earth? Sorry for your calamity. Dr. Guy says, ice for swelling reduction then pain liniment. Feet elevated in that recliner.

Were you shopping for two cars at once yesterday? Perhaps you kicked the coffee table in frustration while watching the Braves lose a winning opportunity in the 9th yesterday? Was it the missed field goal last night? Did you try and kick two things at once? Can you do that? So many questions.

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

And it all started so innocently: Well, yesterday denizen Boog suggested his choices for music on a desert Island. DOB chose his desert Isle (musical) choice as Miranda Lambert, who happens to be a beautiful young country singin’ gal. I chose Sarah McLaughlin, because of her, um…gorgeous voice.

Ok, all that is well and good…but now journalist Jimmy comes along and chooses Diane Lane and Virginia Madsen. Now, I ask you…does that seem fair to anyone? Two? Will the journalist have one lady gathering coconuts and firewood while the other sings? Does either of them sing? Would journalist like them to act? Act like they can sing? Would they act like they are marooned with Robinson Caruso or Tom Hanks? Bring canned ham and peach pie?

Then, to further complicate matters, Lew comes along and requests a twinky! He will not be hungry, but he may soon be lonely for acting and music on that desert isle. Lew may decide to add to his fantasy league desert isle shopping list with another request, preferably non-food.

To be fair then, I will add another so that I can match journalist. I’ll choose Helen Hunt. She can act like FedX will send food, libations and a fishing rod while Sarah sings. Oh, and I’ll also choose a snack, since Lew did. A Moon Pie will do nicely. Now we’re fair?

By Braveheart

September 23, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

What is the rule for adding hitless at bats so that people qualify for batting, OBP, SLG, OPS titles?

I was looking at the stats this morning and Chipper Jones has a chance to win a quadruple crown of sorts - leading the league in AVG, OBP, SLG, & OPS.

It’s only been done by 17 players and 6 National Leaguers.

In the NL:

Bonds - 2004, 2002

Helton - 2000

Walker - 1999

Musial - 1948

Rogers Hornsby - 1920, 1921, 1922, 1923, 1924, 1925, 1928

Honus Wagner - 1904, 1907, 1908, 1909

11 players in the American League:

Brett - 1980

Lynn - 1979

Yaz - 1967

F. Robinson - 1966

Ted Williams - 1941, 1942, 1947, 1948, 1957

Lou Gehrig - 1934

Babe Ruth - 1924

Ty Cobb - 1909, 1914, 1917

Tris Speaker - 1916

George Stone - 1906

Nap Lajoie - 1901, 1904

Chipper is leading the league in hitting and OPS, is second in OBP - 6 points behind Helton, 3rd in SLG - 3 points behind Holliday and Fielder.

But I think Bonds changes that if they add hitless at bats and such to make him qualify.

By Braveheart

September 23, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

IF Chipper should end up leading the league in all of those sabermetric quadruple crown categories, but Bonds is allowed to take it from him with hitless at bats, I never want to hear another Braves fan tell me what is the big deal about Bonds taking steroids.

By journalist sees it coming

September 23, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

I’m a bit befuzzled how a person with the ascribed greatness of a nutcase such as journalist jimmy smith can be felled by a buffoon the likes of “stinky”! No guts? No wit?

Now journalist jimmy is leaving again! Sympathy for jimmy please!

They say there isn’t enough room on the blog for stinky and smith—-but actually there is plenty of room for both of those little mental p**!

This blog won’t live or die for the sake of jimmy smith, or any other blogger for that matter! It ain’t about you jimmy! Get over yourself! This is DOB’s blog boy! Don’t let the door hit you on the way out! We’ll see you back here jimmy in about 3 or 4 days, as usual! Until then, enjoy your book reading jimmy!

Sympathy please!

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Stinky, could you just this one afternoon allow a peaceable kingdom on the blog by not directing your negative barbs at anyone in particular? It would be greatly appreciated. You are clever and you must have another moniker that could be used. Perhaps it’s one we would recognize? So many other things to talk about. No need to stir the pot. No need for that on such a fine and beautiful day of baseball and blogging. Peace.

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

I have always thought that a mute was better than a mime. A mime would still “talk” you to death. And do they have telephones for mimes? A woman without a telephone is like a man without duct tape.

My dream woman was always a mute, nymphomaniac who owned a liquor store. Now, well two out of three ain’t bad…if you get my drift.

By Bases Loaded

September 23, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Braves with bases loaded still look like nothing short of losers!

By Braveheart

September 23, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

I will add another so that I can match journalist. I’ll choose Helen Hunt. She can act like FedX will send food, libations and a fishing rod while Sarah sings. Oh, and I’ll also choose a snack, since Lew did. A Moon Pie will do nicely. Now we’re fair?

Why would you choose Helen Hunt? Did you watch Castaway? All he thought of was her. Within 4 years, she had presumably maintained hope, grieved, dated, was engaged for a while, got married, was pregnant for 9 months, and had a child? Helen Hunt made me angry in that movie. He must not have meant much to her. She moved on like you would not believe. I’ll pass on Helen Hunt. Plus, she would probably bring Paul Reiser along with her and there would only be so much kvetching I could take from the two of them without strangling them.

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Braveheart You never cease to impress me with the good and well presented info you bring here. Thanks. Our Chipper is in some incredible company. The best.

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy, perhaps when Lew said “twinkie” he was that word as a euphamism for a female companion?

Braveheart, that is a formidable list of names that Hoss is cozying up to! I hope he’s able to hang on to that lead. At least it gives me something to root for.

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

Carroll Have you heard anything about the Braves signing Bonds, since he is leaving the Giants? NOTE I ask that jokingly, but I bet by tomorrow it will be asked seriously.

By Stinky

September 23, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

My dream woman was always a mute, nymphomaniac who owned a liquor store.

That was even better than:

I feed the jello to the fat chick.

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, I don’t believe that Bonds will have enough AB’s to qualify to win those categories. You have to have 3.1 plate appearances per team game to qualify. He’s got 472 (if my math is correct) and will need 502 by the end of the season. So that means that he would have to have 30 plate appearances in the last seven games. He’s not been playing much since he stole Aaron’s record. At least, that’s what I’m hoping for.

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Paladin, maybe Bonds can take over in RIGHT field for that bum Francoeur. I’m sure ugabrave would like to have anyone over there aside from Frenchy.

By Braveheart

September 23, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

And yet they don’t about Chipper enough for MVP. What the heck can be more valuable than leading the league in every major rate stat?

By this journalist

September 23, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

little stinky—-it would be difficult to not post under one of your former nom-de-plumes!

and you couldn’t tote this journalist’s jockstrap—-much less out think this journalist! Even got your asssss handed to you by jimmy smith!

If you want to roll—-let’s roll!

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

The fat chick also sings. I can’t keep my hand over her mouth forever.

By this here journalist

September 23, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

stinky, what’s it like being jimmy’s bytch??

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

ChrisKlob No, I figure someone will suggest putting him in center.

By Steamboat

September 23, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, interesting point about Bonds. He’s not in the lineup today; if he misses a couple more games, he won’t win those categories regardless.

As to Chipper for MVP: I think you DO hear him mentioned, and I’m sure he’ll be in the top 5 or so. But given that he’s tied for 21st in home runs; tied for 9th in runs scored; 20th in hits; tied for 14th in RBI; and not even on the map in stolen bases, I don’t see how you can argue too hard that he should win it.

I hope he does, just because I’m a fan, but I think he’s missed too many games, and that’s hurt him too much, statistically.

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy A second poster needs your plea for “peace”. The first one seems to have taken it to heart.

By Overlord

September 23, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

phillies lost. muts are still losing, so phillies will be needing to sweep us at philly.

Man, this muts team would be already eliminated from playoffs if pedro didnt come back. They will miss el duque this coming week and in the playoffs if they are able to get there.

If there is a team that could beat an AL team which team is it? which team has the tools?

By Stinky

September 23, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

little stinky—-it would be difficult to not post under one of your former nom-de-plumes!

Wow.

this journalist, the fact that you hijacked someone else’s handle speaks volumes about you - you’re either unethical or unoriginal.

But the fact that you question the diety-hood of JJS speaks well of you as well.

You need to get off the fence. No one likes a wishy washy troll.

By Overlord

September 23, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

muts went ahead, it looks like muts will win east, i dont think phillies will be able to sweep us. An picking up 2.5 games will be extremely hard task.

They are only 1GB WC, so their chance is still there.

By Braveheart

September 23, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

Yost is nuts. Loved it.

By Braveheart

September 23, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

HELL YEAH! where’s this magic been all year?!?!?!?

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

The best way to get back at a pitcher for throwing at your head…hit one at his head! DIAZ!!!

By Braveheart

September 23, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Steamboat, you’re right. But, dammit, I don’t have to like it.

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

Overlord, recent history indicates that ANY team that makes the playoffs has the chance to take it all. Look at last year’s St. Louis team or consider how many wild card teams have won the WS the past ten years. The “best” team doesn’t always win. Lately it seems like it’s the “hottest” one that takes it all.

By Braveheart

September 23, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

PRADO!

By ElbravoX-- EbX

September 23, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

PLUS PRADO, MINUS WOODWARD = PLAYOFFS.

By ppaddy123

September 23, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s problem concernig the MVP is he has only plated in 80% of this season’s games. I showed these stats on the previous blog. If Chipper had played in every game and we assume he maintained the same average, his numbers would be: Ave. .342, HITS 206, runs 126, doubles 51, HR 33, RBI 126, BB 96 Without a doubt, those would be MVP numbers!

By BG

September 23, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox… managerial genius … pinch-hitting Martin Prado for yesterday’s hero, Scott Thorman.

Remember earlier in the year when the Braves got all sorts of two-out “magic”. Maybe it has returned just a bit too late. More likely: things just even out over the course of the year.

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Braveheart How’s nephew Cuz?

No to Helen Hunt? You ain’t right. Actually…she’s As Good As It Get’s. Besides, she really didn’t want to leave Tom Hanks, but the guy was about, what…6 years late for dinner? Besides, he had a good buddy Wilson…and then a pretty country girl artist sculptor. You gotta give Helen a mulligan…after all, she was in the Swiss Family Robinson. Lot’s of desert Isle training there.

Chris Bonds should go to center…right smack dab in the center of an AL team that wants to deal with controversy and jeering fans all year. Don’t even want to think about him getting a chance for a ring with a leading team. He doesn’t deserve one. Maybe another ear ring for his three ring circus.

By keylargo25

September 23, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

I’m going to ask a question asked by millions before me. After Dotel is lights out in the 8th, why will they pull him and put in the closer? A guy strikes out the side and is almost unhitable and he will not pitch in the ninth. I have never understood this and I guess I never will.

By Steamboat

September 23, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

ppaddy123, yep. Chipper is definitely one of the 5 or 6 elite hitters in the game. I don’t know if we’ll ever see 155 games from him again (though I do think he’s got a lot of 130-game seasons ahead of him). So, it’s going to be hard to win HR, RBI titles (or even come close), and thus to compete for the MVP-type awards.

That’s why it would be really cool to see him win a batting title this year.

By Braveheart

September 23, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

great. we miss a great play by escobar live because sager was interviewing a big hootered middle aged woman dressed like she was still 18. sager always was a player.

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

SG, actually, I wish that Bonds would just go away. Period.

By Overlord

September 23, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

chrisklob, i agree, but the team has to get hot plus have the tools to win, just as cards, they had lots of weapons. As well as past WC winners. But this season SD has lots of pitching but almost zero offense. Phillies have lots of offense but zero pitching. Muts have lots of injuries, zero bullpen (wagner injuried), lots of key players ailing or on DL. Cubs…… ill tell you what, i think this teams has some players that can make a short series a pain to opponents (soriano, ramirez, lee, zambrano and lilly), so dont count them as an easy opponent, plus wrigley is a tough place to play as visitor.

But i really dont see any of these teams beating the machines the AL will bring to postseason.

By Mark

September 23, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

Could it be a different season if we had Dotel instead of Wickman during that Cincinnati Series. We’ll never no.

By Braveheart

September 23, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

Savannah, Helen may be As Good As It Gets, just make sure she is Mad About You.

Thanx for asking about my brave little cousin. We had alot of beers and alot of cheers when Thorman hit that homer and the Braves pulled that one out, screaming cheers by him when stafford threw that touchdown, screams of agony by me when stafford threw that touchdown, and then tears and hugs during an awkward cigarette break out back where we made the mistake of making eye contact. Way too emotional of a night to really go into great detail about. Semper Fi.

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

This…blog……..has………….slowed……………….to……………………………a…………………………….crawl…………………

Will it last to the games end? Takes longer to refresh than Sid Bream running from ATL City Hall to the Ted.

Or is it just me? Uh, my computer…

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Matt Holliday is not in the starting lineup for the Rockies today.

By tanyon & kelly

September 23, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

yoo hoo savannah guy. wow. you post on here all day and all night. shouldn’t you be working on your term paper?

By BG

September 23, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

keylargo —

While I agree with your point in lots of situations, Dotel is just coming off 6 weeks on the DL and he pitched yesterday. It makes sense to work him back into pitching gradually. If he can get back to his old form (and like the 8th today), the Braves might actually want to pick up his $5.5 million option year for 2008. And, if they do, they want him healthy.

By Mark

September 23, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

correction: know

By keywest25

September 23, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

Like I have repeatedly stated - there is nothing like a shutdown closer.

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Tears are not a sign of weakness, they are a sign of caring. Men who do not cry are men who do not know how to care.

By TennesseePaul

September 23, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

Incredible game Bravos! Incredible. Too bad they didn’t play like this all season, but I’m glad they are finishing the season with some punch.

GO BRAVES!!

By tanyon & kelly

September 23, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

we just noticed that someone wrote:

My dream woman was always a mute, nymphomaniac who owned a liquor store.

what a perv! you guys must be a sorry bunch of horndogs that can’t score dates.

By Overlord

September 23, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

wagner blows another save………this time to the fish.

Muts just are no competition for the WS.

Muts blow a 6-3 lead late in game. Plus they left runners on 2nd and 3rd with 1 out in the 10th.

Wonder where are their blogging fans.

By d-rock in Scotland

September 23, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

We may have just seen andruw’s last home game as a brave, and he gave us a lot to miss if he hits the road. diving to first, some great catches in center. He looked like a kid out there today, and i think he gave something extra, knowing it might have been his last as a brave here.

By Overlord

September 23, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

This teams offense and bullpen is loaded and ready for 2008……. could they get some bench and back of the rotation please so all this talent is not wasted AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

The Braves won and Tech lost. Then, I had a delicious steak dinner and the Dawgs won. Today, the Braves won. Can the Falcons possibly make it a 6 for 6 weekend?

By GeorgetownKid

September 23, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

It is amazing what happens when you get clutch hits and clutch outs.

It is especially amazing what happens when you get both in the same game!!

If only the Braves had discovered this formula a few weeks earlier. Oh well. GREAT GAME FELLAS!!

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

Tanyon & Kelly, I can’t even imagine why a bad little boy like you are trying to get into the mindset of flirty little teenage girls and pose as them. Is that how you get your kicks? Giggles? At least you aren’t still on those dirty blogs that you spend time on. They are really sleazy and could be dangerous for little boys with your obvious predilection. Do you watch baseball? No? Then rent Bad News Bears…your speed. Oh, but then it might remind you of all the times you were left off the team. Never mind. Just go play in the street or something.

By bronxbrave

September 23, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

Am I the only one here who thinks the wild card may still be within reach? If the Padres lose tonight, the Braves are only 3.5 games out with six to play. Obviously, we need to win all six (against the Phillies and Astros on the road), which is a tall order, but looking at the schedule for the teams ahead of us, there’s a way it could work.

There are three teams ahead of us in the wild card: the Padres, Phillies, and Rockies. If we win out, that takes care of the Phillies. The Rockies have to close with the Dodgers in LA, and the Dbacks at home. I would bet on them splitting those games, at best, meaning we pass them if we win all six. That leaves the Padres, who close at San Fran and at Milwaukee (seven games). The Brewers are probably going to be fighting for the NL Central, so that won’t be easy, and it wouldn’t be really surprising to see the Pads lose four of seven.

If that happens, and we sweep the next two series, we’re in the playoffs, folks. It’s a long shot, but hey, it’s a shot.

By fastasballs

September 23, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

The Muts just won although they looked about as bad as possible in doing so. They will be lucky if they are not swept in the Division series. Just about everyone if playing better ball than they are right now.

Great game for the Braves today & last night. I loved the emotion & clutch hitting. Too bad the Braves were not a few games closer because they could do some serious damage in the playoffs. The Braves are still alive & stranger things have happened.

By Braveheart

September 23, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

Thanks Paladin. It was a tough moment I was trying to avoid with him. He may be a Marine now but I still remember when his mother was pregnant with him, remember him as an annoying hyperactive two year old who would not shut the hell up, an even more annoying twelve year old that had to be watched like a hawk as he struggled horribly with the divorce of his parents, and a punkish seventeen year old who regularly had us hassling with people to keep him out of trouble. Hell, I remember going to his mother’s high school graduation like it was yesterday although it was 20 something years ago. All that races through your mind as you look that nineteen year old Marine in the eye as he gets ready to go to war and your eyes get filled with tears of pride and fear of the unknown. But he’s a tough hombre and a good man who will be serving with a bunch of other tough hombres and good men who will make us all proud.

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

I’m immensely proud of the Braves. They are not “mailing it in”. They can’t do anything about other teams; all they can do is take care of business. And they are! Go Braves!!

By Braveheart

September 23, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Looks like Maddux is doing us a favor right now. Maddux got roughed up. We can be 4 out in the loss column come tomorrow morn. Perhaps even 3 out in the loss with 6 to go by the time we play our next game.

By ncscoots

September 23, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, I find one of the finer and more comforting facts of life to be that clueless boys and girls who seem to be a complete waste of air can turn into fine men and women almost before your eyes. Daily repudiation of the “it’s over” philosophy, LOL.

Paladin once told me that everybody couldn’t be as upbeat as I, and I agreed. But the transformation of young folks, such as you describe, certainly contributes to my mindset.

Maybe not as much as clutch outs and clutch hits by the Braves, of course, LOL, but some.

By ncscoots

September 23, 2007 6:22 PM | Link to this

Tears are not a sign of weakness, they are a sign of caring. Men who do not cry are men who do not know how to care.

A young lady I once knew told me she had a foolproof way to determine if a new beau was worth pursuing. She said she would rent Field Of Dreams and My Dog Skip, and any guy who didn’t choke up at least once got bid sayonara :-).

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

ncscoots
Braveheart, I find one of the finer and more comforting facts of life to be that clueless boys and girls who seem to be a complete waste of air can turn into fine men and women almost before your eyes.

Does this rule apply to trolls and jackals also?

By KC

September 23, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this

Damn I wish we played in the Central this year.

A remote chance at a post-season berth still exists, but it’s unlikely. I guess I didn’t need to say “unlikely” after I already said “remote”, did I? Another entry from the department of redundancy department.

Anyway… 3 things would have to happen:

1 - The Braves must win out. They can’t lose another game this season. That would have them finishing with an 88-74 record. If they did so, they would take care of the Phillies in the process.

2 - The Padres must go 3-4 in their remaining 7 games (assuming the Rockies hold their 5 run lead over SD).

3 - The Rockies must go no better than 4-2 in their remaining 6 games.

If those 3 things happened, the Braves would tie for a Wild Card berth. Does anyone know what happens in the event of a 3-way tie? I honestly have no idea.

It would have been huge if the Braves could have won that Friday game with Hudson on the mound. Then if the Braves were to win out, they would only have to hope for a 4-3 finish from the Pads. That’s a lot more likely than 3-4.

It’s a long shot, I know… but it’s enough to hold my interest for now. Even if the Braves miss the playoffs again as it appears will be the case, it’s great to see them playing great baseball right now. And I think finishing with a win total in the high 80’s despite all the injuries and pitching problems, would be a nice accomplishment.

By fastasballs

September 23, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

If the Rockies lead holds the Braves climb to 3 1/2 out. Only the Phillies, Rockies & Pads will be ahead of them. We can take care of the Phillies heads up & the Padres & Rockies have a tough schedule the last week. The Brewers play very well at home so they might give us some help with the Padres. Rockies have the Dodgers & DBacks left.

It’s still a long shot, but not impossible. I’m still having a blast watching one game on TV, another on the computer & checking scores every 10 minutes. It will be a really fun week ahead regardless if the Braves pull off the miracle.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

September 23, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

We knocked the Brewers on their butts and the Phillies are next. It’s fun being the spoiler. The Braves are going to finish with a winning record for the season and just maybe finish with the best month of baseball they have played all of 2007. Kudo’s to Bobby Cox for keeping this team focused and playing hard.

By ncscoots

September 23, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

Klobber, yes, I hold out hope for even trolls and jackals :-)

Just not much, LOL.

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this

Scoots, apparently you have more faith in people than I!

By dunwoody in denver

September 23, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this

Sorry, but the Braves aren’t making it, even if they win the rest of their games. Why, you ask? Well, the Rockies are about to win their 8th in a row, and since they just swept a four-game series from the Dodgers, they have nothing to fear from them this week. They’ll most likely finish 89-73, one game better than the Braves…

By MEB

September 23, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

Did y’all hear the post game interview with Ned Yost. WOW!!! Sounded a lot like Chipper’s rant against the umpires but Yost was absolutely fuming. Really hot that the first base ump was smiling and grinning at Yost during his tirade. Focus of his anger was the fact his players were giving it their all and the umpires owed them correct calls.

GO BRAVES!!!

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

dunwoody in denver Well, thank you for your negativity. That added a lot to the blog.

By Bob, Journalist

September 23, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this

Esteemed Wurlitzer Winner of the Savannah, the ice was applied and feet elevated … immediately after I stopped saying “goodness” and things like that! That is, about 15 minutes after the doing of the deed.

I can’t afford to have my car fixed … much less buy one … I wish I could blame it on something like that or frustration but no, I “kicked” a solid cherry chair while shoeless … how and why remains a mystery but the deed was done … ‘tis purple they are.

Carol says it’s called not paying attention to what you’re doing and being too much of a red neck to wear shoes indoors … to which I plead guilty … the only question I have is “when will they stop hurtin’?”

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist perhaps you should do what I do whenever I kick a solid cherry chair while shoeless. Take a fifth of Knob Creek Bourbon. Splash a small amount onto a clean cloth and apply to the affected area. In a glass, splash a little more bourbon over ice. Yes, ice is critical here because of its ability to reduce swelling. In no time you will feel much better. Repeat as necessary until the pain subsides. Enjoy!

By KC

September 23, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this

If you want evidence that the Braves aren’t completely out of it yet… here ya go:

As I posted a moment ago, the Braves need 3 things to happen in order to have any shot at tying for the Wild Card: 1 – SD must go 3-4 in their final 7 games (after today)… Colorado must go no better than 4-2… and last but not least, the Braves must win out. They have to win all 6 of their remaining games.

Starting with San Diego… what are the odds of SD going 3-4 in their remaining 7 games? I’d say there’s a 40-45% chance.

The Padres are 3-deep in their rotation. Maddux just got roughed up today in a Padres loss. Also, while he still has outstanding numbers for the season… Chris Young was 0-2 with a 5.48 ERA for August, and so far he’s 0-2 with a 5.73 ERA for September.

The Padres finish on a 7-game road trip. Next up: 3 against SF. They will see Matt Cain and Zito (not that he’s scary this year) in that series. Then it’s 4 against the Brewers. My guess is that Ben Sheets pitches in that series if they’ve still got any shot.

Colorado going not better than 4-2 in their remaining 6? I’d say there’s a 80-90% chance of that.

They’ve got 3 against the Dodgers, followed by 3 against the D-Backs.

The Braves Winning out? What are the odds? I’ll say 33% odds.

The Braves will have Hudson, Smoltz, and James going against the Phillies. The way James pitched his last time out certainly offers encouragement heading into that series. We will either miss Cole Hamels, or face him on 3 days rest.

It’ll be tough to sweep in Phili, but the Braves are playing great baseball right now and are playing all-out like a team with nothing to lose. Also, the pitching matchups favor us in that series.

The Braves may elect to move Hudson, Smoltz, or both up 1 day (on 3 days rest) so that just in case the Braves have a chance when the last couple games of the season roll around… they could bring them both back on short rest again, or have Hudson pitch the final game of the season, and have Smoltz available for a 1-game playoff if the Braves could force tie-breaker.

3 against the Astros to end the season. There’s certainly an opportunity to sweep there. Not saying it’ll be easy, but certainly possible.

Again… it’s definitely a long shot. But it’s not quite over yet.

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this

BobJ I used to have a coach that would have said, “rub a little dirt on them”. It wont help, but nothing else will either.

By Paladin

September 23, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this

No 6 for 6. G’night.

By Carroll Rogers

September 23, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this

from yost: “That umpiring was a joke. a bad joke. Two times we were out of the inning with a lead. That changes the game completely. There’s got to be some accountability somewhere in the ranks there. That was unbelievable. Teixeira was out by a half step and Rickie had the other kid out. And then they’ve got the nerve to smile. Let’s have a little professionalism invovled in the craft.” etc etc etc.

oh and paladin, ha ha on Mr. Bonds

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

Carroll, I’m sure the conspiracy theorists will have a field day with this one!

By Stinky, Conspiracy Theorist

September 23, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

The real conspiracy concerning the Braves - Soriano’s 4 game suspension. Someone in the Commish’s office wants to ensure a Braveless postseason.

More later. Right now, you sheep can’t handle the truth.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 23, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

After seeing so many calls go against the Braves this year, it’s nice to get one or two for a change.

If the Braves are in contention by the time they get to Houston, I would be very leary of the Astros as I am sure they would like a little pay back for what the Braves did to them last year.

By robert's right

September 23, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this

Soriano just gets better with more work,” Bobby Cox said

Yeah. He can’t wait ‘til next year so he can pitch him every day.

By Timothy Leary

September 23, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

I would be very leary of the Astros

Well, I am not leary of the Astros but I am always Leary 24/7.

But I am leery of the Astros.

By Overlord

September 23, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

KC if we played in the NL central we would be in last place since the reds would have taken care of us all season some 15 games………LOL. So im glad we are in the east. Playing in the west wouldnt be good either, since the DBacks ha our number also.

By journalist tres faux

September 23, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this

Baa

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

Chrisklob Let’s see…I told the newly hobbled Bob, Journalist to ice his toes and elevate his feet. You told him to ice his toes and put some of that ice in a glass, rub a little Knob Creek on toes then pour some Knob into the glass and drink…then repeat until pain subsides. Well, I like your prescription better.

Elevate the feet and head at the same time. Perfect. Should we now refer to you as the esteemed Dr. Klob? Would white rooskies work too doc?

Bob, Jouurnalist “I go barefoot at home.” Wait… Does anyone wear shoes inside the home? Is there any other way than barefoot? That’s not redneck, that’s comfortable and sensible…unless you are Chipper Jones. He should always wear steel-toe shoes.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 23, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

Timothy Leary Sorry dude, I was spaced out… What’s your excuse? Just a jerk? No? Not what your wife said….

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

Timothy Leary Is it true that you said, “Toon in, turn None and Drop Pout”. That really makes no sense.

Unless you mean that one should watch cartoons, don’t change the channel and pout on occassion. So, are you living in a purple haze that Mr. Natural created? Owsley?What is reality? Far out and away cosmic dude. Dig it.

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

SG, white rooskies can occasionally do the trick. You just can’t drink too many or you’ll get fat before your pain subsides. If you’re sensitive to caffeine then you have to really drink a lot to overcome its effect. And be sure to use a decent quality vodka or you’ll be needing more help in the morning. Course, that’s nothing that a bloody mary wouldn’t cure anyway.

I prefer the KC method for a purely pragmatic reason too. It’s quicker. Kind of like morphine is quicker than aspirin.

Oh, and just to be clear, it is not necessary to use the same ice cubes to put on said toes before you apply the Knob Creek to the glass. I always use fresh ice and suggest that others do as well.

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

Carroll Meant to mention yesterday per your Hampton/Huddy dialogue…Remember the TV spots that featured Maddux and Glavine practicing to hit home runs off of a tee? What was the punch line? I think I remember…but if I’m wrong, I could be banned from the blog (out of context, you know). If you know, let’s hear it from you. Something like, “Chicks love the…”

Very funny ads. Maddux played it perfectly.

By Salty

September 23, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

chrisklob Per your remedy suggested to Bob, J…once he imbibes enough Knob to kill the toe pain, what’s he do the following AM for the pain in his head!?! :-)

SG “Chicks dig the …

By KC

September 23, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this

Overlord: Yes, I forgot about the Reds! Excellent point.

Still… central looks friendlier right now. =)

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

Salty, I don’t know. Hadn’t gotten that far in my cunning plan! Hopefully, he’ll find the equilibrium point achieved by imbibing enough KC to stifle the pain yet not so much as to feel its ill effects the following morning.

By Yars

September 23, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

KC……I dig your optimism, but there aren’t enough games left for the Braves to win the NL Wildcard. If there were maybe 15 games left, then I would still have faith. What I will find sad is if the Braves finish only 1 or 2 games behind the NL Wildcard winner. This team sure is playing good right now. Just a little too late.

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

Dr. Klob, pediatrist Only use Sky, pure filtered Vodka for the rooskies and only have two per night. Those two are the size of pitchers, but who’s measuring anyway (the tailor? Liquor store? ).

Salty Good Knob won’t cause a bad headache…unless the toe is really throbbing and an overdose ensues.

I did know the “dig” part…but wanted Carroll to finish the line and correct along the way. Heyyyyyyy…you didn’t finish the line either.

Ok, here goes: “Chicks dig the long ball” (can I be banned for that?). Nah. Carroll, are we being mischevious or just appreciative of ad copy? They were the best ads I’ve seen done by Braves.

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

SG, Skyy is an excellent choice. Very good quality for the price. If you are a martini drinker you should try their newest product called SKyy 90. It’s 90 proof and they’ve perfected the distillation process to remove ALL the harmful junk. It’s literally 100% pure vodka distillate and it’s the first product that can say so.

I can speak with certainty that it will also help ailing toes. Here’s my remedy:

1. Put Skyy 90 in freezer for several hours. The colder the better.

2. Remove bottle and pour vodka in large martini glass.

3. Put bottle (still very cold) on affected toes

4. Drink martini. Repeat as necessary.

For those that are particularly motivated, I suggest having two bottles and using them in rotation. After all, the affected toes will warm the glass of the bottle and make it less effective so it’s a good idea to swap the bottles out from time to time.

By Salty

September 23, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

SG Sorry…I wasn’t finishing if you weren’t! Then again, I guess I needed to play catch up on your posts, rather than butt in. You’re right, Glavine and Maddux were a hoot in those ads!

BTW…a bit tardy, but congrats on the Wurlitzer!

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this

Shoeless Bob, Journalist Per Doc. Klob with a rhyme: Knob Creek and ice is very nice, but with two toes in a sling you may need to pour thrice.

The esteemed Joe Jackson wore no shoes inside either. By the way…he retired and lived in my Savannah town. Good guy he was. All the locals liked him.

Paladin When you catch up in the morning just remember: 5 out of 6 ain’t bad. The birds will return.

By dunwoody in denver

September 23, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

KC, an 80-90% chance the Rockies go no better than 4-2?

C’mon, you haven’t been watching the last week and a half. They just swept 4 from the Dodgers, who have given up on their season, so sweeping them 3 more shouldn’t be that difficult. They just swept the Padres, who have the best pitching in the NL, without Matt Holliday, who should win the NL MVP. The last 3 games are at home against the D-Backs, who will most likely have the division sown up by this weekend and will be resting most of their starters. They should go 5-1 at worst…

By Savannah Guy

September 23, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

Dr. Klob, podiatrist Whoa! You have this toe therapy thing down to a fine science. Like it. Next time I hurt my toe I’m going to bring out your recipe. Now, where’s my hammer?

Salty “I wasn’t finishing if you weren’t!” Now denizen, I’m gonna take the heat from Carroll for blurting it out. Or, she’s seen the ads, appeciates the long ball too and congratulates me for having the, uh…memory…to ask the question about the ads.

Thanks for the congrats. Actually there is no such thing a butting in around here. Everyone has the floor at any time. Now, if we practiced Dr. Klobs recipe for toe pain we would soon have the floor ourselves… face down.

By Overlord

September 23, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this

dunwoody in denver probabilities say they rockies could go 4-2 or even 3-3………easily.

By BossLady

September 23, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

Like it. Next time I hurt my toe I’m going to bring out your recipe. Now, where’s my hammer? LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL Nite all

By Dr. Klobs, P.E. (Podiatrist Extraordinaire)

September 23, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

SG, no need for rash action. Don’t forget that practice makes perfect. Giving first aid requires practicing first. Would you want someone to give you mouth-to-mouth without having practiced it before? Besides preventive medicine is much better than curative medicine!

By chris

September 23, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Anyone a little bit surprised that Cox wouldn’t throw Hudson and Smoltz on three days rest vs. Phils and Astros? That way we’d have our two aces pitching in 4 of the last 6 games instead of 2. At the very least, I would expect Hudson to pitch on Sunday if we are still alive. What say the rest of you?

How about a week where three pitchers get their first ML win and another gets his second?!

Also, do you suppose Dotel will close if we have to be without Soriano at all this week (because of his suspension)?

Cox did an excellent job with the bully these last two days, I thought.

Chris from MD

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 23, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

Okay, so we may fall a little short. I can live with that as the Braves can build on this type of run. The young players will remember this.

I can’t help but remember what Adam LaRoache said when the Braves were beat by the Astros in 18 innings a couple of years ago. He said he would rather be completely out of the race than to lose like that. Well Adam, you sure got your wish….

I think this will only make the guys like McCann and Frenchy more determine. I hope the Braves make it but the probability is remote. At least they are not giving up.

All and all it has not been a bad year to be a Braves fan. Frustrating at times due to pitching or lack thereof but I know the team was playing with a payroll handicap.

You just never know till the final out is recorded do you? And yeah, “Chicks dig the long ball….” So do the uninformed folks who don’t really understand all of the finer points of the game.

Carroll Thanks for keeping the blog going this weekend. Honestly, I have never met a person from North or South Carolina I did not like and I have met many. Nearly married a girl from Lexington, NC and still think the world of her.

By KC

September 23, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

dunwoody in denver: IF the D-Backs already have the division locked up during that Arizona/Colorado series… then you have an excellent point.

If not, it’s going to be tough to go 5-1 over their last 6.

By The Grinch

September 23, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

Morning, all. I’m watching the f-ing Cowboys beat up on the Bears. I hate them, as I do all “dynasty teams. Blah. Did I miss anything exciting tonight?

By Robert

September 23, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

” I will say he looks very tired this season and things do seem to be getting to him much more than in the past. The only reason I would suggest retirement would be if he was having health issues-which, for all we know, maybe he is. Not making excuses-I do realize this has not been his finest season, for sure, but he hasn’t seemed as on top of things as in the past. Damn-I should have been a lawyer (I should be stricken for even having THAT thought). Was that a worthy tap dance?”

Lew, I see the same Cox making the same mistakes. He managed no better or no worse this year than any other.

The only health issue he has is a feeble mind

And Grinch, quit ogling my Twinkie!

By chrisklob

September 23, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

And of course we must have the obligatory visit from our Village Idiot.

By Chop Chop

September 23, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this

Grinch,

We’ll never have to worry about the Falcons being a dynasty team. How about ol’ D-Hall today? How about a bad/fumbled snap on a chipshot field goal? What the hell did we do to deserve this?

Maybe the Steelers, Cowboys, and Pats have room on their bandwagons…

By Bob, Journalist

September 23, 2007 11:54 PM | Link to this

Methinks the biggest problem with those fine sounding remedies is that they encourage folks to break their toes … I understand that Knob Creek is mighty fine but I never developed a taste for the sweet stuff … still, I do have an unopened bottle of Old McBrayer, from the last case ever sold … I’m sure it would kill either me or the pain!

I imagine that the total amount of alcohol that I’ve consumed over the past 5 years is less than what some bloggers claim to put away in one evening … of course that doesn’t speak to days of yesteryear.

My guess is that Royal Salute and ice would probably work as well … and it cost so much (about $225 a fifth, methinks) that you couldn’t be encouraged to break many toes … back in the sixties when I drank it, the cost was about $21.00 … a healthy sum in those days.

Regardless, I appreciate everyone’s concern and, as I an still a bit skeptical, would not be opposed to some of you conducting research and testing the various remedies on my behalf … just in case.

By Bob, Journalist

September 24, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

Gil, I agree as per usual with most of what you say … but I don’t see blaming things on the budget limitations … had they been better prepared and played as a team throughout the year, methinks they would have already clinched the division.

Highly paid players can find ways to lose just as well as those receiving the minimum.

Still, it’s not over …

By The Grinch

September 24, 2007 12:28 AM | Link to this

Back again. Chop Chop, Falcon fans are like the Jews; we’re so long suffering we have the right to expect better treatment from the general public. Don’t even THINK about joining any of those bandwagons; I’ll no longer call you my brother. We must persevere; it’ll make any success (should it ever happen) that much sweeter. We WILL prevail, one day. And the fruit will be sweet indeed.

Bob, soak your toes in something cheaper than Royal Salute; you’ll make us paupers feel bad.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

September 24, 2007 1:01 AM | Link to this

Mark Bowman :With his recent health concerns and a $5.5 million option for next year, there’s a good chance Dotel won’t return to Atlanta next year. Thus, he feels it’s necessary for him to make a positive impression during the final week in order to show other teams that he’s healthy…..

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

September 24, 2007 1:16 AM | Link to this

Referring to my previous post , Mark Bowman is smoking weed. We just paid 6.5 Million to Bob Wickman and he didn’t even play the last month of the season in a Braves uniform. Not to mention the obvious health concerns surrounding Wickman ( his weight). If and I said IF Dotel is healthy , bringing him back for the 2008 campaign is a no-brainer. Think about it , Rafael Soriano , Octavio Dotel and Mike Gonzalez backed up by Moylan , Ring , Acosta , Ascanio , Yates , Devine , etc.etc etc. That is an incredibly deep , versatile and talented bullpen for 2008. John Schuerholz can focus on fixing the rotation , maintaining the defense and adding depth to the bench in the off-season without any concern for the bullpen.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

September 24, 2007 4:26 AM | Link to this

Let me add this. The Braves are playing extremely well down the stretch and it is a shame that they are getting no recognition for it outside of here (Braves Nation).

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 24, 2007 7:04 AM | Link to this

Coach The national media loves band wagons too. They will ride which ever front runner happens too appear like a cheap mule and claim to be a life long supporter.

BobJ If we agreed on everything there would be no point to our discussions. I was but offering the most obvious reason abet it might not be the correct one but again the most discernible for the Braves slide from prominence to also ran.

It trust the Braves will do a lot of soul searching in the off season along with many others. I doubt they could however feel any worse than the Detroit Tigers who feel short of the mark as well as the Cardinals.

Gee, must be the fault of those two really stupid mangers they have calling the shots, right Robert?

Anyway, I will watch and root for the Braves as have since ‘66. At least I can be proud to wear my Braves cap. We still have a shot. I am rooting like heck for the Marlins and the Nationals this week too. The Mets have the look of a team playing desperately not to lose as opposed to the Braves playing to win.

By Philly Fantatic

September 24, 2007 7:57 AM | Link to this

You Atlanta folks make me laugh….when you jokers come to CBP bring your crying towels…better yet, make sure that your gutless Braves know their role, and lay down before the Fighting Phillies!!! I can’t believe we even have to play you guys, you should just forfeit because you are obviously going to lose anyways. You guys need to put your tails between your legs, like the rest of the people in Atlanta do when challenged to a fight, and run back home like the punks you are.

Phillies in da HOUSE!!!!

By Paladin

September 24, 2007 8:20 AM | Link to this

Philly Fantatic You’re a girl, right? And one who doesn’t know how to spell fanatic.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 24, 2007 8:29 AM | Link to this

Philly Fantatic is not a real Phillies fan. The giveaway is this poser knows how to spell and has a sense of writing style. Likely it is the same person who poses as a Mets troll. Just someone trying to stir up a little ruckus on the blog.

By The Grinch

September 24, 2007 8:42 AM | Link to this

My god, one of these days I’m gonna have to quit drinking. G’night again, y’all…this daylight thing is painful.

By Paladin

September 24, 2007 8:59 AM | Link to this

Grinch Don’t quit drinking, just listen to ChrisKlob and BobJ and drink the good stuff and not that rot-gut. It treats you a lot better. :>)

By Shaun

September 24, 2007 9:04 AM | Link to this

I doubt they could however feel any worse than the Detroit Tigers who feel short of the mark as well as the Cardinals.

Gee, must be the fault of those two really stupid mangers they have calling the shots, right Robert?

Don’t you know, it’s only what a manager does in the post-season that matters? Right, Robert?

By Shaun

September 24, 2007 9:11 AM | Link to this

Coach and Gil, I think the national media follows whatever will get them ratings. I heard that the recent Yankees-Red Sox series had about the same ratings as last year’s NL playoffs and higher ratings than some of the NFL marquis match-ups that weekend. Their only bias is to the almighty dollar.

I think the national media isn’t following the Braves because it’s still a long shot for them no matter what they do.

By TampaBrave

September 24, 2007 9:11 AM | Link to this

Braveheart

My best wishes to your soldier. I have one myself in Korea who may end up in Iraq in the near future. I think these kids today need and want a cause they can believe in and though I personally don’t believe in the merits of the current war, I certainly pray for each and every soldier to make it back home to their families.

By Lew

September 24, 2007 9:16 AM | Link to this

Gil-Yes, I eat peanuts (shell them myself) on a daily basis. They are one of the best foods for keeping blood sugar down. We get Fenway Peanuts at the grocery store. I’d rather have Braves’ peanuts, but this IS New England. I refuse to eat the Mets or Yankees peanuts and have lobbied to have them removed from the grocery store. They haven’t listened.

Grinch-The Falcons persecuted? Dude, you have no idea. You should have been a Bucanneers fan in the 80’s and 90’s-the teams that had 14 consecutive losing seasons? Most of them 2 or 3 wins. They had the worst record in the history of Sports Franchises. Probably still do, even with a SuperBowl win. I mean, Good Lord, we traded 2 1st round and 2 second round draft choices for a Coach who looks like a doll from a horror movie. Even Michael Vick can’t equate to that. Remember, we had Chris Chandler when he was really bad.

By Robert

September 24, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

Shaun, a week or so ago sportsline.com quoted Leyland about this season. He said that was disappointed in his own performance.

Detroit didnt perform up to expectations this year. And the manager had a lot of excuses available to him, if he chose to go that route. After all, the team lost a 17 game winner, their best reliever, and their offensive leader for significant portions of the season.

But Leyland didnt blame that. And he didnt blame the umps. He started the accountability with himself.

And the next time Bobby “Donk” Cox does that, it will be the first.

By the way, Yost’s tirade is sad. Just as sad as Chipper’s, or Cox’s.

Rule number one in baseball - There is NO SUCH THING as a bad call by an umpire. If they call it an out, it’s an out. If they say it’s a strike, it’s a strike. And so on.

Deal with it. Get over it. And do it.

By Robert

September 24, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this

And Shaun - LaRussa is VASTLY overrated as a manger.

Dude, if Jim Leyland had managed the Braves this year, we’d have clinched a playoff berth a week ago.

And if Cox managed the Tigers this year, they’d still be looking up at win number 70

By Paladin

September 24, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

If Andruw will sign for a figure that will make it possible for the Braves to re-sign Tex, I want him back. He has done too much for the Braves to judge him by a bad year, and I think the light has finally gone on for him. That being said, I don’t think with Boras as his agent that the figure I mentioned above can be reached; and, if not, I wish Andruw well.

By Paladin

September 24, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

Gil Lew catches the peanuts very adroitly when they are tossed to him in his tree. :>)

By KC

September 24, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

Yars: “KC……I dig your optimism, but there aren’t enough games left for the Braves to win the NL Wildcard. If there were maybe 15 games left, then I would still have faith. What I will find sad is if the Braves finish only 1 or 2 games behind the NL Wildcard winner. This team sure is playing good right now. Just a little too late.”

Yars, there’s really no optimism in my statements. I’m with you dude. I’m not optimistic about the Braves making the post-season. I agree that chances are the Braves are done for.

I was simply stating the fact that the Braves aren’t completely dead yet. I wouldn’t give the Braves any better than a 10% chance of making the post-season at this point… but if you have a 10% chance to live, you don’t give up.

Again, the Braves would have to win all 6 remaining games, and the Padres would have to go 3-4. But stranger things have happened. Highly unlikely, but certainly not impossible.

By ssiscribe

September 24, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

Top of the morning, denizens. Gotta run here in a second, but just scanning the posts from over the weekend. Love the way the ballclub is playing right now; don’t love the fact it’s probably a week too late to make a difference.

Or is it? In the words of that noted prognosticator Lee Corso, “not so fast my friend!”

(And Lee, thanks much for picking ‘Bama Saturday. Great win for the Dogs.)

The Braves have a sliver of hope, and it really is going to take some doing to make this happen. But let’s say — just for fun, mind you; this is no prediction — the Braves go 5-1 this week, winning all three in Philly (which won’t be easy) and winning two of three in Houston.

I’m NOT saying it will, but what if it did?

Going 5-1 puts the Braves at 87-75. IF San Diego goes 2-5 this week (that’s a real reach, I know) and IF Philly goes 2-4 (which is possible if the Braves sweep them) and IF Colorado goes 3-3 (the Rox gotta cool off sometime, and they do finish with Arizona), then all four teams finish tied at 87-75.

What would the tiebreaker situation be, then? Two games Monday, winners play Tuesday? Who would be home team in those games? How would all of that be determined? Wow, that would be wild!

If the Braves find a way to run the table and go 6-0, then the Pads gotta go 3-4 this week, the Phillies 3-3 and the Rox 4-2 to tie at 88-74.

Again, it’s a reach to ask the Braves to finish with eight consecutive wins, I know. AND I’M NOT SAYING IT WILL HAPPEN.

But you know what? Wouldn’t it be fun if we woke up Friday morning and the Braves had found a way to sweep Philly, the Rockies had lost two of three to the Dodgers (yes, I know Colorado is hot) and the Padres had lost three of four to start the week? That would put the Pads in first by one game over a three-way logjam — Braves, Rox and Phils — entering the final weekend.

Dare to dream, dare to dream. Regardless, I’m encouraged and proud of the way the team is playing down the stretch, whether they make it or not.

Back to work. One week till Vegas. Eleven days until the Thrashers drop the puck!

And goodness, the Falcons are horrible.

The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Shaun

September 24, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

Robert, you are a genius! Why hasn’t anyone else figured out what you have? It’s amazing.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

September 24, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this

Jimmy Leyland is a total jacka.s.s , Starting a rookie in game one of the 2006 World Series. Kenny Rogers threw 23 innings in the 2006 post season and NEVER gave up a single run. Leyland got him into one single game in the World Series , which Rogers won , the only win the Tigers had in the WS. Absolutely the one of the worst jobs of managing by anyone in World Series history. Cox would have never made such a stupid mistake , he knows to go with the veteran pitcher no matter how talented a rookie may be. Cox is 2-1 against Leyland in post season play.

By Paladin

September 24, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

Shaun Robert need to go on the drug Tryforgetin.

By Braveheart

September 24, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

No Robert. Those were two bad calls. Tex was out at first. Frenchy was out at second. I’m glad they went our way but those were bad calls.

What manager could just sit there like you say he should when those kinds of calls were going on? He was angry as heck and he should have been. Especially when that fat tub of lard started chuckling at him. To be honest, I don’t know how he restrained himself when that tub of goo was laughing at him. I really might have knocked the weeble wobble out. You had one umpire going toe to toe yelling back in his face and the other rolling his eyes and laughing at him while his team’s playoff hopes are going down the drain because both umps blew two critical calls.

There was nothing sad about what Yost did. Not at all. He actually showed incredible restraint to me. In fact, he did not even dispute the first bad call with Tex at first - well, not until they blew the Frenchy slide at second. Only a putzy manager would sit there and watch his team get screwed out of playoff contention by two umps and not utter a word on his team’s behalf.

By Shaun

September 24, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

Paladin, I think he’s already on that. He’s already forgotten that Cox has clinched plenty of playoff appearances in his managerial career. Oh, wait, only post-season matters when it comes to Bobby Cox. For every other manager, the regular season matters. Never mind that there are 162 games in the regular season and only 19 at most in the post-season. We’re supposed to believe that in a small sample of games, managers matter most, or something. Not sure. There are all kinds of inconsistencies in what Robert wants us to believe, so it’s hard to know what he wants from us.

By NCBravesFan

September 24, 2007 10:33 AM | Link to this

Scribe I’m with you - I think this is about a week too late to get terribly excited.

The nice thing is that the Braves appear to be playing without pressure or expectation, and that makes them quite dangerous to the Phils.

It looks like the Mets have closed the deal in the East. (In fact, I expect Anders, et al to come calling on the blog just about anytime now. They’ll come here with a lot of pride, and a lot less respect from me. Gutless cowards, those Met fans!)

This leaves the WC for us to fight for. In that realm, odds are that the three teams ahead of the Braves are not all going to fold up.

But it is nice to see the Braves playing well and having fun.

By Braveheart

September 24, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

Robert, Cox has 3 less victories than Leyland this year. It is indisputable that Leyland has had 6 quality starters this year while Cox has only 3. Leyland is a great manager but he failed to get what he should have out of the quality arms in his rotation.

SO, Cox and LaRussa are VASTLY overrated in your mind. What the hell kind of mind do you have? Who the heck is a good manager in your warped mind? For two decades, both of them have won World Series, gone to the playoffs numerous times, and been in playoff contention many other times. What the hell kind of manager are you looking for?

Robert, you are the kind of idiot who would fire Marty Schotteinheimer and bring in Norv Turner and turn a 14-2 juggernaut with a HOF running back into an 0-3 team with that HOF running back averaging like 2 yards a carry.

By Shaun

September 24, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

ssiscribe, I’m waiting for a year where we have a crazy “pre-playoff” playoff scenario. You know it’s going to happen sometime with the current set-up. Hopefully it will happen this year. Hopefully the Braves will be involved but even if they aren’t, it would be great.

By Bring Me the Head of Francisco Cabrera

September 24, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, it doesn’t hurt your correlation any to point out for the sake of accuracy that the Chargers are 1-2.

And it sure is fun to watch statheads like Shaun left helpless as they try to justify what they can’t quantify.

Not that this automatically makes Robert correct. He’s the other extreme.

A man’s got to know his limitations, as Dirty Harry once said. There’s a few geniuses on this blog who feel they have none.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

September 24, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

Agreed , Ned Yost had every right to do what he did. The umpire’s blew both calls. but , then again , Yost screwed up big time when he pulled Chris Capuano after just five innings and 88 pitches. Of course , if you haven’t seen the incident with Milton Bradley on ESPN , you should tune in. Those two umpires should be fired immediately for what they did. Showing up the Padres , the fans , embarrassing the really good umps with the stunt they pulled. I believe both umps were white and Milton Bradley is black , which makes it an even worse situation. At any rate , it was unprofessional and the two of them (Brian Runge and Mike Winters) should be fired.

By Paladin

September 24, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this

DOB and/or Carroll

How about a new blog. This one is slower than old folks fornicate. And I know!

By Lew

September 24, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

Braveheart-I don’t know about the play involving Tex, but on the Francoeur play, with repeated replays I noticed two things 1.The ump was in perfect position to make the call and 2. Francoeur appeared to roll away from the tag (towards the pitchers mound)-it looked like it was a good call. Improbable, given how much the throw beat him by, but he was safe.

By bring me the Pointyhead of BMTHOFC

September 24, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

A man’s got to know his limitations, as Dirty Harry once said. There’s a few geniuses on this blog who feel they have none.

You being one.

By DAP

September 24, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

i dont think the umps blew the calls. they were the right calls, from what i saw. the tex call was close, but on the replay of jeff sliding into second, you could tell the tag missed his hand, and got his shoulder AFTER jeff had the bag.

either way, i can understand yost blowing up, but dont get on the umps for unprofessionalism just because one ump yelled back and the other one laughed. if you do that, blame yost for blowing up. that was unprofessional to.

if i was an ump it would be really hard not to yell right back in a guys face when hes all over me, and i think the guy that just laughed had a better reaction. at least he didnt lose it.

By Braves Fan 79

September 24, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

Go Braves! sigh… man i just wanna see Smoltz have 1 more shot at a WS title!
All the games we threw away this year, all the times we sent woodcrap up to pitchit in what would turn out to be our last good scoring chance of the game makes me sick.
Replace Woodcrap with Escobar coming out of spring training…and were in the division lead right now! Hands down!! BIGGEST MISTAKE OF THE YEAR!!

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

September 24, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

By the way, Both Tony La Russa and Bobby Cox have two World Championship rings with two different teams. They will both be enshrined in Cooperstown as hall of fame managers. Jimmy Leyland can enjoy his one ring and visit Cooperstown. Although , he will have to buy a ticket to get in.

By Shaun

September 24, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Bring Me the Head of Francisco Cabrera, what do you mean by “it sure is fun to watch statheads like Shaun left helpless as they try to justify what they can’t quantify”? Please explain.

By Paladin

September 24, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

Coach You sure have gotten smarter of late. What have you been drinking? Maybe we all should have some of it.

By Shaun

September 24, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

Coach, Cox only has one ring, but I still agree he’s one of the best managers ever.

Leyland did go with the rookie pitcher in game one of the World Series that finished seventh in the league in both ERA and strikeout rate, so I don’t think you can fault him for that decision.

By David O'Brien

September 24, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Paladin, there will be a new blog up shortly. Sorry, but I’m just starting my workday. Some of us don’t go to bed at 6 p.m. and wake at 5 a.m….

(just busting your chops.)

By Bob, Journalist

September 24, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

Paladin, I always figured Robert was a bit senile, always repeating himself like he does … but suggesting he’s a liberal too, now that’s bad.

By Contradictory Statement If Ever There Was One!

September 24, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Cox only has one ring, but I still agree he’s one of the best managers ever.

By Bob, Journalist

September 24, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

Carol said we have it all wrong … Robert’s okay … his doctor put him on Tryforgetin and it worked … he keeps forgetting what he’s previously posted.

By Paladin

September 24, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

Thanks DOB, I was just bustin’ your’s too. Have a good un.

By Paladin

September 24, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

BobJ The Dr. put me on Tryforgetin but I keep forgetting where I put it. Must be with my truck keys.

By fastasballs

September 24, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

After watching this team play to their potential this past week or so gives me a lot of optimism for 2008.

A full year of Tex batting clean up will all but guarantee a another good/great year from Chipper, if healthy. Tex should put up 35/140/.280-.300 type #’s if these 50 games he’s been here is a good indication of next year’s production & I think they are. His average should stay close to where it is because he’s batting behind a group of guys always on base & Chipper will teach him a thing or two about hitting.

The bench should be much better with a decent mix of vets & talanted youth. The bullpen should be one of the best & deepest in the league, again a good mix of vets & youth.

There should be a stable full of starters here to choose from. Will Edgar be traded for a solid starter? I’d hate to see him go for anything less than a good established starter, but is there a team willing to trade?

Hampton will pitch winter ball so they will have a better idea if he’s going to impact the rotation a lot earlier than they did this year. Will he even be effective? I would say so & if he is he would be about the best 5th starter if the league.

One of the starter candidates will be the long man & a few others will end up in Richmond or traded for other needs. I think Oscar is gone next year.

Brandon Jones & Lillibridge should make an impact on the team for next year. If Edgar is still here the bench could consist of Diaz/B. Jones, Escobar/KJ, Lillibridge, Prado, Thorman & Pena. Unless they keep 12 pitchers then drop one from the list.

Who knows if Andruw is staying or going. I was almost certain he was gone, but now who knows? He wants to stay & his #’s are so bad I don’t think anyone will give him the long tern deal Borras would want. Maybe he signs a one year deal with options. I think the Braves will have more money to spend than anyone thinks they will & especially after next season.

By Paladin

September 24, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

BobJ On a serious note: Please give my best to Lady Carol; and I hope that she is feeling and doing well.

By Shaun

September 24, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

Coach, I just watched the espn.com replay of the Milton Bradley incident. If Bradley is telling the truth—that Runge asked Bradley if he threw his bat at him—that is ridiculous. Not saying Bradley was innocent during the whole incident but why would an umpire even ask a player that, unless the bat came really close to hitting him or actually hit him?

I think something needs to be done about umpires’ interactions with players.

By Coming to a theater near you

September 24, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

Memento - a man named Robert who can no longer build new memories uses the same blog posts everyday to hunt for the man he believed killed his postseasons.

By GeorgetownKid

September 24, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

The biggest game of the upcoming Phillies series, I believe, is the first one in which Chucky faces Moyer. If we can pull that one out, we then have Hudson and Smoltz against Lohse and Eaton. So if Chucky comes through for us in game #1, a sweep is hardly unrealistic.

How sweet would that be?!

By Shaun

September 24, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

By Contradictory Statement If Ever There Was One!

Cox only has one ring, but I still agree he’s one of the best managers ever.

It’s a contradictory statement only if you accept the false premise that the best team always wins the World Series and if you assume managers have more control in winning and losing than they probably do.

By David O'Brien

September 24, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

Just out of curiosity, and because I honestly didn’t know or had forgotten, I was curious how many managers are in the Hall of Fame.

The top 11 winningest managers in history include three still managing, La Russa, Cox and Torre. La Russa is third and Cox fourth in wins, and Torre, I believe, passed Leo Durocher this season to move into 9th. (Not certain, don’t have time to look further).

Anyway, just FYI, of the top 11, the other eight are inactive and every one of them is in the Hall of Fame. Every one.

Anyone who really has any doubt whatsoever that La Russa and Cox aren’t mortal locks to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, is either in deep denial or simply isn’t aware of the history.

And I’m certain Torre will go in, too.

By Paladin

September 24, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

If Chucky does well in game #1, I think you are looking at a legitimate #3(or #4, depending on Hampton)for next year. Then, the $s can be spent to shore up the bench and sign Tex(and maybe Andruw.)

By Shaun

September 24, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

DOB, of course you know winning regular season games as a manager shouldn’t get someone into the Hall. Only post-season games count in that regard. We all know that’s the only time managers do anything and it’s when managers alone win and lose games. Duh!

By Paladin

September 24, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

OK, I’ve ot to go take my nap so I can stay up ‘til six. :>)

By KC

September 24, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Paladin: I think James is a solid starter. People seem to forget his numbers last year and the 3.55 ERA he had heading into his last start of July before his shoulder started acting up.

James wasn’t the problem this year. If the bullpen had been as deep and strong all year as we thought it was going to be, he would likely be at least 13-8 right now, even with the DL stint.

People also forget that this was his first full major league season. I think we have to cut him a little slack.

The problem, quite obviously, was the bottom of the rotation. And if Hampton is healthy, the rotation will be in good shape next year.

But I don’t think we can (or will) do nothing and hope for the best with Hampton. I’m sure JS will pursue a starter (via trade) every bit as aggressively as he did at the deadline. If there aren’t any great trade prospects for a starter that can help us beyond just next season… I expect the Glavine talk to start hard and heavy.

In my opinion, Chuck James will likely start the season as our 5th starter. If so, I think he’ll be the best 5th starter in the league.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 24, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

I have a prediction based on no facts other than just a hunch and perception of what appears to be Atlanta’s feeling of apprehension about Bryan Pena’s catching skills that he will be traded somewhere before the start of next season.

Typically the back up catcher is a skill guy from whom offense is a plus. Bryan can play a bit of offense and would be a good addition to a club looking for a Johny Estrada type catcher.

One guy not mentioned much is Barbaro Canizares He is a good looking young ballplayer who I think has a much better upside than Thorman who I also think will be traded.

By Braveheart

September 24, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

If the bullpen had been as deep and strong all year as we thought it was going to be, he would likely be at least 13-8 right now,

KC, I agree with you about Chuck. He gets alot of unwarranted grief. However, part of the reason the bullpen has some rough stretches was because of Chuck and his inability to get past 5 innings. He and the other two at the bottom of the rotation just burnt that pen the hell in the beginning of the season which caused the pen to be not so good from the beginning of July until mid-August. Gonzalez being hurt was not his fault but would the rest of the pen have suffered so bad in July and early August if they did not need to pitch 4 innings for Chuck in games they were winning big in?

By KC

September 24, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Just curious…

Does anyone know what would happen in the event of a 3-way tie for the Wild Card???

By Gil in Mechanicsville

September 24, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

Contradictory Statement If Ever There Was One!

Bobby has one ring for the WS as a player with the Yankees.

By Steamboat

September 24, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

KC, Bravheart, also agree on James. He is more a part of the solution than part of the problem.

He needs to quit his day job at Lowes this offseason and work on two things: building strength and endurance; and learning a sinker or splitter - something that dives down. He still has a chance to be a very solid mid-rotation starter.

Oh, and the “I don’t think, I just throw” attitude needs to go. Maybe Nolan Ryan could get away with that, but not Chuck James. It was “cute” for a while, but 29 HR in 158 IP is evidence of that.

By beachcomber

September 24, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Braves Fan 79 - I agree with your earlier post. It seems sometimes front offices, not just ours, go into deep denial about a personnel move.

This year it was Wilson and Woodward - patience is one thing but these two were god awful.

Same with some of our bullpen last year. Since we don’t follow other teams as closely, I’m sure there are examples on every roster. But having a .320 hitting super sub coming out of spring would have mean at least 2 or 3 games - or not facing elimination tomorrow night.

By Robert

September 24, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

“Paladin, I think he’s already on that. He’s already forgotten that Cox has clinched plenty of playoff appearances in his managerial career”

Shaun, there’s MAYBE of those playoff berths that wouldnt have been clinched by ANY other manager - MAYBE

And there’s almost a half-dozen playoff performances that wouldve been exceeded by ANY other manager (and close to 10 that wouldve been exceeded by a good one)

Taking a World Series team to a division title does NOT mean you are a good manager

Cox is 2-1 against Leyland in the playoffs. He should be 3-0, with nary a one of those series being close. But he is 2-1, and if not for a miracle hit, would be 1-2

That right there tells it all. But of course, in the Cox-apologist version of history, Jay Bell, Bobby Bonilla, and Tim Wakefield become the equivalents of Honus Wagner, Mike Schmidt, and Lefty Grove

By Philly Fanatic

September 24, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Paladin - That was your best comeback? Ever hear of a typo, douchebag? Pathetic. Just like the Braves. When you start caring about who your real daddy is, I’ll start caring about how I type.

Just make sure your boys lay down for us like you did for the Mets.

By GermanBravesFan

September 24, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Robert: get back to your donkey - he’s lonely!