AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2007 > September > 26 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USBraves’ surge helping Chipper’s MVP cred
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
We’re watching something special here, folks, these Braves winning eight of their last nine, staging comeback win after comeback win, pulling themselves up off the proverbial canvas and getting back in the playoff race, going from impossibly long odds to, well, still long but at least reasonable enough to consider.
And even if it ends tonight — if, say the Braves lose and the Padres win (which would put Atlanta four games behind the San Diego with four to go) — then it was still impressive, wasn’t it? Maddening, I’m sure, for Braves Nation and the denizens here who wanted so much to believe in them back in July and August, when they kept frittering away opportunities in “must-win” series and such.
But it’s still enjoyable, isn’t it, for you folks to watch these games? Has to be, admit it. And it should at least give the Braves and their fans something to remember for next season, a reminder of how good this team should be, and how it’s imperative to get your act together early and not wait too long just because the 162-game season is so epic.
Just imagine, a few of those leads they blew, a few of those games when they left bases loaded … OK, I’ll stop torturing you.
Anyway, let’s get to this MVP thing I wanted to blog about real quickly before I head over to the ballpark.
I still don’t think Chipper Jones will win the league MVP award, primarily because he’s played only 129 games and three of the other four top candidates (Prince Fielder, Matt Holliday David Wright) have played more than 150.
Fielder’s hit .291 with 50 homers, 119 RBIs, .392 OBP and a 1.017 OPS. He’s a terrific force and the Brewers wouldn’t have a prayer without him.
Holliday has hit .338 with 48 doubles, 36 homers and 131 RBIs, albeit with a .374 average, 25 homers and a 1.159 OPS at Coors Field, compared to .300 with 11 homers and an .858 OPS on the road.
Wright’s hit .322 with 30 homers, 105 RBIs and a .964 OPS, and if he weren’t doing it in New York and ESPN wasn’t calling him MVP every other night, I don’t think he’d really be considered a top-three candidate. He shouldn’t be.
Reigning MVP Ryan Howard, who I’m assuming is still in the top five in many voters’ eyes, has played 139 games for the Phils. While his 43 homers and 127 RBIs are impressive, his .264 average and major league-record tying 195 strikeouts in 511 at-bats are not. Besides, four other Phillies have 22 or more homers, and Howard might not even be their team MVP — Chase Utley’s hit .336 with 22 homers and 101 RBIs in 127 games, and has a .991 OPS to Howard’s .957. And don’t forget SS Jimmy Rollins, who’s hit .293 with 84 extra-base hits (18 triples, 30 homers, 134 runs and 91 RBIs. Damn, do they have some punch.
Which brings us back to Chipper, and I can already hear a legit counter-argument that he might not even be the Braves’ MVP, since I’ve said myself that Edgar was the team MVP before he got hurt, and hey, Mark Teixeira might be their MVP since they got him July 31, hitting 15 homers and 52 RBIs in 50 games.
But take a look at what Chipper’s done, and you might see why I think some voters who wait until the end of the regular season to vote, like you should in a close race, are probably considering shifting their votes to Hoss.
He’s hit a league-high .340 with 41 doubles, 28 homers and 100 RBIs, with a .428 OBP and a league-leading 1.036 OPS.
On the road, he’s hit a majors-leading .360 with 53 RBIs and a 1.090 OPS in 61 games.
Against right-handers, he’s hit a majors-leading .383 (yes, .383) with 52 extra-base hits (21 homers), 72 RBIs and an 1.181 OPS.
Here’s something to think about: The Braves have had a flukish season in that they’ve faced far more lefties than any other major league team; think if they’d had a couple more at-bats against righties, an amount similar to the breakdown for most teams? I’m just saying…
OK, since his return from the DL in mid-June, he’s hit .359 with 46 extra-base hits, 73 RBIs and a .444 OBP in 87 games.
Since the Braves added Teixeira to the lineup behind him, Chipper has hit .341 with 11 homers, 44 RBIs, 44 runs and a 1.068 OPS in 46 games.
And in his past 27 games, Chipper has hit .374 with eight homers and 32 RBIs.
Hey, I think Prince Fielder will win it, and I wouldn’t argue that he’s not deserving. But you really have to consider Chipper Jones, don’t you?
If he’d just played in that Mets series a couple weeks ago, got a key hit or two in that series, gotta wonder if he might be considered a favorite about now.
Leadoff next season? Whether or not the Braves keep Kelly Johnson at second base next season or trade him, they might have found another solid leadoff hitter.
Because as good as Kelly was in the role, rookie Yunel Escobar has been about as good or even better. (I’m still amazed at some of the things I see this Cuban rookie do. Escobar is seriously good, people).
This came to my attention today, when I decided to look up the leadoff on-base percentage guys after Escobar had two doubles in the role last night.
And I was surprised by what I found: Escobar leads NL leadoff men with a .414 OBP hitting in the No. 1 spot in the lineup. Kelly still has enough plate appearances to qualify and is fifth with a .375 OBP (yes, the Braves have two of the top five NL leadoff OBPs, with Hanley Ramirez, Cincy’s Norris Hopper and Rickie Weeks between Escobar and K.J.)
Escobar has hit .364 (52-for-143) with 14 doubles and two homers as a leadoff man.
By the way, his .331 overall average includes a .352 mark (82-for-233) in his past 68 games.
Phillies didn’t get memo: That, or the Phillies are ignoring the script that was sent out to all NL teams 10 days ago, the one titled “Unflappable Braves Rally for Wild Card.”
I say this because they’ve decided not to pitch Adam Eaton on Thursday. Eaton, of the plus-6.00 ERA that includes a plus 11.00 ERA vs. the Braves.
No, they’re going with rookie Kyle Kendrick, who is 4-1 with a 3.63 ERA in his past seven starts.
The Phillies supported the kid with a whopping 40 runs during the 25-2/3 innings he pitched in those four wins. Imagine what John Smoltz might do with such run support?
Smoltz, who goes against Kendrick in the series finale, is 4-1 with a 2.77 and 2.17 ERA during 10 consecutive quality starts since Aug. 8, including three in which the Braves scored only one run while he was in.
OK, that’s it’s I’m running late. Gotta file this.
“BOOMTOWN” by Greg Brown
Here come the artists with their intense faces,
with their need for money and quiet spaces.
They leave New York, they leave L.A.
Here they are — who knows how long they’ll stay
It’s a Boomtown
got another Boomtown
and it’ll boom
just as long as boom has room.
Here come the tourists with their blank stares,
with their fanny packs — they are penny millionaires.
Something interesting happened here long time ago.
Now where people used to live their lives the restless come and go.
Nice to meet you, nice to see you
in a sheepskin coat made in Korea.
Welcome to the new age, the new century.
Welcome to a town with no real reason to be.
The rich build sensitive houses and pass their staff around.
For the rest of us, it’s trailers on the outskirts of town.
We carry them their coffee, wash their shiny cars,
hear all about how lucky we are to be living in a …
The guy from California moves in and relaxes.
The natives have to move — they cannot pay the taxes.
Santa Fe has had it. Sedona has, too.
Maybe you’ll be lucky — maybe your town will be the new…
It’s a Boomtown
got another Boomtown
and it’ll boom
just as long as boom has room.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By //////////Berigan\\\\\\\\\\
September 26, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this
7th!!!!
By Paladin
September 26, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this
Whew! I’m winded from running up those steps.
By Thrillhouse44
September 26, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
Fitting how the Fat Chicks have infiltrated the Pie/BBQ blog!
2 blogs in one day without lyrics? Notorious DOB, has your iPod hit the fritz?
By Overlord
September 26, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this
what if braves win, SD wins and muts lose?
By Burt
September 26, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this
I can’t help but imagine what Chipper’s number could have been had Andruw not been batting (so weakly) behind him until Tex’s arrival. Now that there’s a real threat in the No. 4 hole for the Bravos, Chipper is seeing more pitches to hit.
By bandwagon
September 26, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this
ALL ABOARD!!!! we’ve missed quite few of you over the last three weeks. means no matter. ALL ABOARD!!!!
By Burt
September 26, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this
And hey, is Escobar eligible for Rookie of the Year honors? He’d get my vote. This kid is the real deal.
By BravesFanInRockies
September 26, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this
DOB,
You’re a machine, man. Nice job as always. BTW, I still hold out hope that the Braves will win out and the Mutts lose out (or just win one more) so that the Braves can win the East.
Or I could get back on my meds …
By AJ Soprano
September 26, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this
Still no Fing Ziti, DOB? This blog without lyrics is like no Fing ziti. Gimme some ziti DOB.
By Ken Oberkfell
September 26, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this
Even if the Bravos don’t make it to the playoffs, they can still ruin Philly’s shot at it. Sweep this series and keep those bums at home!!!!!
If the Braves can sneak into the wild card that’d be cool too.
By Thrillhouse44
September 26, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this
Good point, Burt. There are plenty of “what if’s” for this season.
It’s amazing how Chipper’s season has been so quiet outside of ATL. I wonder if he ever regretted not playing in a more ESPN-friendly city…
By Fat Chick
September 26, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this
Thrillhouse, sugah, there ain’t nuthin’ wrong with a big strong woman. Ask Paladin. We don’t just like pie and BBQ. We like to have our cake and eat it too. Wouldn’t mind me a little ziti either but DOB has not been so kind to bake us some ziti on the last two blogs.
By Tony Soprano
September 26, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this
AJ One more efing word out of you about the efing Ziti and I’m gonna beat the sheet out of you. Now, apologize to your Mother for your bad manners.
By //////////Berigan\\\\\\\\\\
September 26, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this
Decent blog, DOB, quite decent….
;)
You make a good argument for Cecil, err, I mean Prince. Where would they be without Ryan Braun though??? That’s what’s so amazing with the MVP race. Usually, there is just one guy that jumps to the foreground that you say, without him, they go nowhere.
Ryan Howard has 43 homers and 127 RBIs AND he was on the DL this year!!! Would they be battling for the wildcard without him??? I think not. Chase Utley was on the DL as well, and with a broken hand. hit .336 22 HR’s 101 RBI’s in 127 games, They would be out of the race without him as well And Jimmy Rollins!!! Has played every game, and has scored 134 runs, has 204 hits, 38 doubles, 18 triples, 30 Hr’s 91 RBI’s(Mainly batting leadoff!!!) oh, and 37 SB in 43 attempts. You know they would be going nowhere fast without him. Never hear of him dogging it like Reyes.
IF somehow, the braves get in, Chipper really should be considered for the MVP though, cuz we all know we wouldn’t be in a race without him. Didn’t Kirk Gibson get the MVP with lame numbers while missing quite a few games? Had big hits when it counted, but man, those season numbers were terrible!!!Well, just checked, he did play 150 games, but 25 homers, 76 RBI’s,anand he wasn’t batting leadoff….
By Thrillhouse44
September 26, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this
Here are some lyrics for you AJ:
Hey fat girl,
Yeah, I called you fat.
Look at me - I’m skinny.
By The Piece
September 26, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this
DOB, Why is Peter Moylan not getting any ROY buzz??? He’s easily got the stats, and has been by far the Braves most consistent reliever.
By //////////Berigan\\\\\\\\\\
September 26, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this
Jason Stark has gotten on the bandwagon! Sort of! ;)
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=stark_jayson&id=3036950
By Fat Girl
September 26, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this
Thrillhouse I’d rather be fat than dumb. You can lose fat cells.
By Fat Chick
September 26, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this
Whew! I’m winded from running up those steps.
Paladin, honey, you’re always the show off ain’t ya? Running up steps at your age. You should be careful. Don’t you stroke out on me. I get winded on the first step. Can’t climb the stairway to heaven and knock on heaven’s door. Gabriel wouldn’t let me in heaven’s gates anyhow. Gabriel says my singing is the devil’s music, the music of Grim Reaper. And no drinking tonight, Paladin, you ole drunk. You’re gonna stay up and watch this game with me. I promise not to sing.
By Shaun
September 26, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
For all the conspiracy theorists out there, the Braves were the top story on espn.com twice today.
DOB, I think David Wright’s candidacy is legit. I do think Fielder will win it but here are some reasons I think a lot of people consider Wright (not saying I accept these arguments but I do think they are just as sound as some others):
1) Chipper hasn’t really played enough, Fielder’s team is probably going to miss the playoffs, Holliday plays half his games at Coors Field, Utley hasn’t played enough and Pujols’s team isn’t going anywhere.
2) Wright has been the most consistent and healthy hitter on the team that will probably finish with the best- or second-best record in the league. Yes, there’s Reyes but Wright has been their only “run producer.”
I personally think Wright should be a candidate because of more non-traditional stats like runs created—he’s created more runs than any player except Holliday (who of course plays his home games in Coors). His numbers look at least as good as Fielders when you take into account that OBP is more important than SLG; he has a 22-point edge in OBP. No other power hitter with close to as much playing time has that good an OBP.
My heart says Chipper. My head says Wright. My pick is Fielder.
By //////////Berigan\\\\\\\\\\
September 26, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
Lyrics??? You want some lyrics??? Hers are some that DOB would totally approve of….
Poison Every Rose Has Its Thorn *We both lie silently still in the dead of the night Although we both lie close together We feel miles apart inside
Was it something I said or something I did Did the words not come out right Though I tried not to hurt you Though I tried But I guess that’s why they say Chorus: Every rose has its thorn Just like every night has its dawn Just like every cowboy sings his sad, sad song Every rose has its thorn Yeah it does I listen to our favorite song playing on the radio Hear the DJ say loves a game of easy come and easy go But I wonder does he know Has he ever felt like this And I know that you’d be here somehow If I could have let you know somehow I guess Chorus Though it’s been a while now I can still feel so much pain Like a knife that cuts you the wound heals but the scar, that scar remains Solo I know I could have saved a love that night If I’d known what to say Instead of makin’ love We both made our separate ways But now I hear you found somebody new and that I never meant that much to you To hear that tears me up inside And to see you cuts me like a knife I guess Chorus*
Sniff, sniff….excuse me for a a little while……
By mart
September 26, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
Let me get this straight: you think Chipper is more worthy of being mvp BECAUSE he’s played in fewer games? I think reliability is a criterion for mvp and Chipper’s propensity for injury makes him unreliable.
By TennesseePaul
September 26, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this
Payne: I’m not the one knocking on LaRoche. But I do find it funny. There are blue blinders on most baseball fans out here. If the player isn’t a Dodger, they aren’t any good. So it cracks me up when the opposite shows up because I know, if that was uttered at a game, the offending person would be found in the parking lot missing a couple of organs, which would turn up on e-bay.
By Fat Chick
September 26, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
Thrillhouse, i am spunky, i like my oatmeal lumpy. i’ll eat up all your crackers and your licorice. i’m the one who said just grab ‘em in the biscuits. they say i’m ugly but it just don’t faze me. i get busy in a burger king bathroom. i am crazy, allow me to amaze thee. i look funny but yo, I’m making money. gonna ruin the image and style you are used to.
think that profile is gonna get me far on eharmony?
:o>
By uga-brave
September 26, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this
paladin,
just saw that the GOLDEN GIRLS are now on the liftime network every day in the afternoon. now i wont have to worry what you will be doing next week during the afternoons. that betty white is a peach
By AJ Soprano
September 26, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this
Every Rose Has Its Thorn?!?!?!?!? F those lyrics Berigan. That’s Olive Garden B.S. ziti. I want some real ziti. Some ziti baked by grandma. With tomato sauce made right from the tomatoes that grow in grandma’s garden that my mother crushes with her feet and toes. Poison?!?!? That’s Prego sauce lyrics. Gimme some homemade tomato sauce. DOB knows what I’m talking about. DOB gimme some lyrical ziti already, dammit!
By Carolina Gent
September 26, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this
I do happily admit that the last week-and-a-half have been fun to watch. I said in some blog last week that if the Braves went 8-2 the rest of the way (that was, I think, after game 1 of the Brewers series) with a sweep of the Phillies included, they’d have a shot. Truly these last number of games is the most passion and fire I’ve seen out of this team since almost the first week of the season. May e it’s the fact that they season coming to an end and they’ve lightened up a bit. Who knows? But is sure has been fun to watch.
Now, Chipper as MVP? As much as I love the Braves and love it when Chipper gets on a roll, you gotta go with Fielder. Chipper’s numbers really took off when Teixera arrived and, until recently, wasn’t too good in “clutch” situations. He’s closing fast, and should get some top 10 consideration, though.
I’m also with DOB on the Escobar as leadoff man. A couple of questions come to mind, though. First, if we have to give up Renteria in order to shore up the rotation, will that hurt whoever is in the leadoff spot. Edgar is so adept at moving runners over and getting them in, and we all know that his in short supply elsewhere on the team. Second, even though Bobby Cox could take Jose Reyes and make him a 15-steals player, could someone work with Escobar to improve his base stealing abilities? That’s awfully important for a leadoff guy and has been a missing ingredient since the Otis Nixon days, despite what Furcal did.
Finally, once more thanks to DOBeat Writer for putrting up TWO blogs in one day! How awesome!!
By Braveheart
September 26, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
Now, Now, Fat Girl. Don’t be calling Thrillhouse dumb. That’s my homeboy. Don’t ever call him dumb. The man is far from it. He makes many excellent points. He’s just not a desperate attention seeker like the rest of us.
By Chop Chop
September 26, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Since you’ve never posted these heartfelt lyrics, I’ll do so now:
WORD UP by Cameo
Yo, pretty ladies around the world /Got a weird thing to show you, so tell all the boys and girls /Tell your brother, your sister and your mamma too /Cause they’re about to throw down and you’ll know just what to do /Wave your hands in the air like you don’t care /Glide by the people as they start to look and stare /Do your dance, do your dance, do your dance quick, mamma /Come on, baby, tell me what’s the word
Word up, everybody say /When you hear the call you’ve got to get it underway /Word up, it’s the code word /No matter where you say it you’ll know that you’ll be heard
Now all you sucker DJ’s who think you’re fly /There’s got to be a reason and we know the reason why you try to put on those airs and act real cool /But ya got to realize that you’re acting like fools /If there’s music we can use it we need to dance /We don’t have the time for psychological romance /No romance, no romance, no romance for me, mamma /Come on, baby, tell me what’s the word
Word up, everybody say /When you hear the call you’ve got to get it underway
Low /Dial “L” for Low /C’mon all you people say /W.O.R.D. UP, W.O.R.D. UP, W.O.R.D. UP, W.O.R.D. UP
By Greg in TN
September 26, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
This just in folks… The AP is reporting that MLB has suspended umpire Mike Winters for the regular season for his run-in with Milton Bradley in San Diego last weekend.
Interesting to say the least. Bob Watson was reported as still trying to decide on any punishment for Bradley.
This might put the brakes on some of the umpires out there that were getting a little ‘big for their britches’ as my dear mother would say. I can’t say that will happen as these guys have slowly but surely gotten more and more confrontational in the last 10 years or so. Still, I’d love to see the exchange of lineups at home plate for Winters’ first game with the Pads next year.
By mike
September 26, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this
DOB Assuming Andruw doesn’t come back next year and the braves dont want to overspend on a CF when they need pitching is Brandon Jones capable of playing CF or is he strictly a corner OF? I also agree with you that Escobar looks awfully good at the top of the lineup. Everyone assumes that in order for Esobar to play everyday Renteria has to go but I think the Braves best offense and maybe defense includes Esobar and Renteria at the top of the lineup in front of C Jones and Texiera. I dont think the Braves should be in such a hurry to part ways with Renteria for pitching. You cant replace his veteran leadership and his knack for getting the big hit. They do have other trading chips, Prado, Thorman, Kelly Johnson, Chuck James. Heck, Id offer all 4 of those guys for Matt Cain. Think about it the Giants have holes in the of, 2b first base, and james might thrive in a pitcher friendly park such as San Fran. I also do think that Thorman will be a 270 25 hr guy in the near future so it would work out for both teams. The Giants could play K Johnson in left and Prado as 2b. Just a thought
By David O'Brien
September 26, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this
What do you mean, no lyrics?
By //////////Berigan\\\\\\\\\\
September 26, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this
Ken Caminiti got the MVP in 1996 playing in 146 games.Larkin got in 1995 playing in 131 games(hit.319, 15 HR, 66 RBI’s)Bond in 1992 played in only 140 games an won…
By ncscoots
September 26, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this
Certainly, one school of thought likes a lefty batting 2, so I could see Escobar-Johnson at the top of the lineup in 2008. Though, for my money, I’d do it the other way around. Just because I like KJ’s pop coming up sooner if there’s a bottom-of-the-order rally.
But, either way, that would appear to mean a lot of baserunners next year, if the two kids were to hold to form (and always assuming Edgar is gone).
By Greg in TN
September 26, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
I should say Winters has been suspended for the rest of this regular season.
Link to story
By AJ Soprano
September 26, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
Thank you for the lyrical ziti DOB. Now AJ won’t have to unsuccessfully attempt suicide for a second time.
By Fat Girl
September 26, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this
I didn’t call anyone—by name—dumb. I was just alluding to the fact that fat may be fleeting, dumb is forever. If the glove do fit….
By Thrillhouse44
September 26, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this
Fat Chick - let me know when you get your eHarmony profile setup. I’m already intrigued. You like the Braves, BBQ, pie and Digital Underground; now as long as you enjoy Ziti, we may have a good thing.
Fat Girl - No offense intended by my lyrics selection; merely a shoutout to a great party song. BUT if you can lose fat cells, why haven’t you?
Braveheart - thanks for having my back.
By Blackie the Cat
September 26, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this
MVP
I don’t know exactly what the criterion are, but let me say this. The MVP should be the guy who 1)Has a biggest impact on his team, 2) Is consistently productive offensively and defensively, 3)Contributes to a winning team, and 4) Hits and fields in the clutch.
I think number of games played is only relevant if they prevent him from reaching certain benchmarks, i.e…100 RBIs, etc….
To further CJs case. The records show that with him, we win, without him, we lose a lot. Now that’s valuable.
By Stinky
September 26, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
Dob’s not a fan, but he sure does favor ol’ Hoss.
By Paladin
September 26, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the headsup on Golden Girls, uga-brave; but Rainman and I watch Judge Waupner during that time period. And I’m a very good driver.
By Chop Chop
September 26, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this
Put me down for Prince Fielder as NL MVP.
Chipper’s been fantastic this year, but he missed too many games. For my money (or AJC Bucks!), this is the best year he’s had since he won the MVP in ‘99. I just don’t see him overcoming the 28 games he missed. It’s a damn shame, though.
As for David Wright, he’s had a very strong year, but the Mets’ problems have been too high-profile for the media to give him that award. His candidacy is tainted, rightly or wrongly, because his team was expected to do more.
Jimmy Rollins is the only Phillie I’d consider for the award. He’s playing a very good shortstop while having a 30/30 year. He’s a leader who backs up his words with actions. That plays well in the media. Don’t discount J-Roll if the Phils somehow manage to get into the postseason.
By //////////Berigan\\\\\\\\\\
September 26, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this
DOB,
you seem to have added italics to all the posts along with those lyrics!!!!
By mike
September 26, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this
Any 24 Fans? Wikipedia says that Tony Almeida is alive and coming back in season 7. Im stoked the show has steadily gone downhill since his presumed death
By Shaun
September 26, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this
Berigan, I’d have to go back but if my memory serves me correctly, there were no clear-cut, obvious favorites in those years.
By knowitall
September 26, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this
David Wright has too many errors in crucial situations to win MVP.
By Paladin
September 26, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this
thrillhouse44 Watch it when Braveheart “has your back” less he slip a stiletto between your shoulder blades.
By StinkyJones
September 26, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this
I like Chipper’s chances. Chipper catches choppers and Chipper is clutch. Chipper could capture the crown and command colossal cash in the coming campaign. Chipper for Congress! Uh,
By ncscoots
September 26, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this
from here on out, you can just call me…
Notorious Ziti.
By Jason
September 26, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this
Great article on ESPN about the last great pennant race. Brings back some great memories ESPN Story
By mo in the boonies
September 26, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
What’s up with all the Italics in all the posts, is the Italic button stuck or what?
By Big Ed
September 26, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
An MVP should not be a guy who cries hurt and who John Smoltz had to “call out” to get back on the field and play. Chipper hit a home run that day when he was supposed to be on his self imposed DL.
By StinkyJones
September 26, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this
Hoss ain’t a term of endearment. Hoss means cowboy tough. Besides, you can say Hoss on here you just can’t say VanDyke.
By True Braves Fan
September 26, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this
DOB: Excellent article. I agree entirely. I think Chipper should not only win the MVP, but also a Silver Slugger and a Gold Glove. Some similarity here between this year and 1999. Bruce (The Brain) Bouchy left Chipper off the All- Star team that year (Greg Maddux also.) He was left off this year. He had a terrific final series against the Mets, and he can have a terrific last month of the season this year. Divid Wright’s candidacy is based totally on offense, he is a butcher on defense. Personally, I would vote for Reyes as the MVP of the Mets….
By mo in the boonies
September 26, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
Hmmm….now the italics are unstuck! How’d that happen?
By Buffalo NY Braves fan
September 26, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
DOB thanks for the 2 blogs today, it gives me something to read when things are slow on the job.
Chipper has a shot at the MVP, but the only way he can win it is if the Braves win out, and Chipper plays a large roll in winning those games.
As far as the Andruw situation after the season…. do you think he would take that 5 year deal, and possibly move to left (a la Griffey moving to right) when Schaefer is ready for the bigs?
By knowitall
September 26, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this
Mike,
I like Tony but can they bring back Michelle with him?
By knowitall
September 26, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this
Mike,
Now that I think about it, Tony was never actually killed was he? He just wasn’t a part of last season’s storyline.
By TampaBrave
September 26, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
The fact that Fielder will play 159 games, yet even with competent supporting staff, could not wrestle away a division title in the weakest division in baseball might eliminate him in my mind. Granted, if they come back and win the division and God I hope they do, then his stock goes up a bit.
Insert Chipper in 25 more games and the Braves are likely leading the eastern division or at least the wild card. That is value, like in valuable my friends. Stats are one component but not the only component.
By Dwight Fry
September 26, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this
DOB or anyone has Chipper ever considered batting left-handed all the time? I’m not sure that batting right-handed really gives him any advantage against left-handed pitchers.
By Paladin
September 26, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this
When y’all talk about “Hoss” you do mean Cartwright, don’t you? I love that show. Can’t wait for the new season to start.
By DonCoburleone
September 26, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this
Seriously people, I am as big a Braves fan as anybody, but Chipper is not the MVP (not even top 3 in my book) and Yunel Escobar is not the ROY (not in my top 3 either).
ROY: 1)Ryan Braun 2)Troy Tulowitzki 3)Hunter Pence
MVP: 1)Matt Holliday 2)Prince Fielder 3)Jimmy Rollins
By Skippy
September 26, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this
How can a grown man want to be called “Chipper”?
By Train Wreck Bystander
September 26, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this
The WC possibilities give me a headache.
GO BRAVES GO NATS
By DonCoburleone
September 26, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this
Am I the only one who really does not want Andruw back next season? I mean, if he’d sign for $8mil or so then heck yeah, but $15 mil or even the $14.5 he’s getting this year??? I say NO WAY. Let him walk, save the money and get a starting pitcher…. A middle of the order consisting of Chipper, Teixera, Francoeur & McCann is plenty good enough to put up runs next season. PITCHING PITCHING PITCHING!!!!
By Big Donnie
September 26, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this
It’s nice to dream — they’re playing awesome baseball right now, but it’s not feasable to get caught up in going to the playoffs.. we will have to win every remaining game and pray for help.
On a separate note: $100,000 fine to D. Hall? That’s ridiculous, and will almost certainly be reduced. Give me a break with that crap. So he melted down… bring him in your office Petrino, shut the door, and chew him out. Then sit him a game and be done with it. $100K? That’s just silly
By Lew
September 26, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this
Dwight Fry-Last night I watched the Phillies feed. They put up some interesting stas on Chipper. Did you realize that for his career, Chipper is hitting .310 LH and .305 RH? Not that big a difference, is there? He has more power from the left side, but hits righties and lefties much the same. He’s the ONLY pinch hitter with a career BA over .300 (.307) and more than 300HR-which will end up over 400 HR.
By Lew
September 26, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this
Excuse me. That should have been switch hitter, not pinch hitter.
By jones beach
September 26, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this
Chipper for MVP. Andruw for another year. Brandon Jones in left next year. And another sunny day at the beach.
By mo in the boonies
September 26, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this
Didn’t get to see the game last night thanks to TBS…but will be watching tonight, just hope I don’t jinx them, because the last time I watched after a big win, they lost!
By 3trees
September 26, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this
“Early one morning the sun was shinning/I was laying in bed/Wondering if she’d changed at all/if her hair was still red…”
Now THAT’S some ziti!
Reads like a good tune, DOB. I’m sure you’re familiar with The Blasters “Boomtown”? Cool too.
Thanks for bloggin’ yo yazz off, man. I appreciate the thought on Chipper, but Batting Title - yes, Gold Glove - yes, MVP - no.
GO BRAVES!
By mike
September 26, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this
know it all Tony was stabbed with a syringe in season 5 but the substance was never identified. Im guessing that they will say that the substance wasnt lethal and that it put him in a coma or something like that. The producers said they toyed with bringing michelle back however they could not find a scenario that was believable. I do agree with you, though it will be weird having Tony with Michelle. Its been said that the Tony Almeida thats coming back is not the one we all knew before. Im guessing that hes either traumatized or has complete vengeance in mind. Michelle is actually signed on to be on ER this year. Ive never seen an episode of ER but I might watch a few this year just for michelle
By jones soda
September 26, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this
who’s your pop?
By Lew
September 26, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this
It’s interesting. The umpire involved in the Bradley situation the other night, has been suspended for the balance of the 07 season, by MLB. About time the Umps caught some penalty time.
By DonCoburleone
September 26, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this
Why is the MVP award automatically tied to a team who makes the playoffs? I can understand the logic behind it - Take a great player off of a playoff team and that team might not make the playoffs; Take a great player off of a last place team and they are still a last place team - I GET IT. BUT, baseball relies on a collection of players more-so than any other sport IMO. If we look at players on bad teams, say Hanley Ramirez for instance, is it really his fault that Florida’s collective team ERA is well over 5.50? Or lets say that Detroit had made a late push and kept the Yankees out of the playoffs, would that mean A-Rod shouldn’t still win the MVP?
Bottom line, I propose baseball introduces another award - the MOP (Most Outstanding Player). You can with both (like A-Rod would in the AL this year) but usually it would be split. For instance, lets say the Brewers miss the playoffs and the Rockies sneak into the wild card. Then Holliday would win the Most Valuable Player award while Fielder wins the Most Outstanding Player award.
By Paladin
September 26, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this
Agree with you on the fine, Big Donnie. He chucked Smith within 5 yards of the line of scrimmage. What was he supposed to do? Kiss him? And the flag that ref threw on him for mouthing with Smith, was ricki-tiki. And why wasn’t it a double foul? The only thing he should be fined for is mouthing off at the coaches. 10K and one series is what it deserves. AND, for Petrino to tell him to keep his efing mouth shut and play football!
By david byrne
September 26, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this
A straight line exists between me and the good things.
I have found the line and its direction is known to me.
Absolute trust keeps me going in the right direction.
Any intrusion is met with a heart full of the good thing.
By DonCoburleone
September 26, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this
TampaBrave Fielder is doing ALL HE POSSIBLY CAN to get Milwaukee into the playoffs. Why should it make a difference if Milwaukee ends up 1 game behind the Cubs? Is it Fielders fault that Capuano unexplicably “lost it” this year? Or that Ben Sheets just can’t stay healthy? Or JJ Hardy fell off the map once the calender hit mid-May? I just don’t understand people’s MVP arguments sometimes…
By David O'Brien
September 26, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this
Moylan’s had a helluva season, but won’t even get top-5 in rookie of the year. Just look at numbers put up by Ryan Braun, Troy Tulowitzski, Hunter Pence, Kevin Kouzmanoff, Tim Lincecum.
I’d imagine that Escobar will even get more votes. Guys just generally don’t vote on setup men for awards like that. They hardly get noticed, unfortunately. But in this case, no way is he as deserving as Braun and a couple others….
Chop Chop, I’m a fan of the even-earlier Cameo, the Knights of the Sound Table, with “Knights by Knights,” “Don’t Be So Cool” “Freakin Dancin,’” etc….
By kevin
September 26, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this
I think that it makes a lot of sense to let lillibridge and jones play as a combo of center field. They both have minors experience playing there, and jones can play some in left as well. Escobar is the perfect 9th hitter you need. if he fills in once a week for kelly, edgar and chipper he will get lots of at bats and really be a 9th starter. The problem the braves have always had was depth, mostly because bobby likes extra pitchers. If you keep utility guys with talent instead of the woodards of the world, it is not a problem. Andruws money covers all the extra money you need to resign tex, and when hampton gets hurt again ( not if, when) his money can be used to sign free agent pitching help the following year,
The braves just need to find a lefty that can eat innings to fit into the 3 slot in the rotation when hampton goes down. The bullpen next year will be highly nasty. The braves are close to having another young dynasty team, starting pitching is the only concern. Smoltz id getting older, but as the old aces start to leave there money should help to pay for free agent pitchers.
All the talk about starting pitching from the organization is over rated anyway. The braves built their staff through trades and free agency tommy g is the only long termer that came up through the system. Smoltz, Maddox, hampton.. they all were acquired via trade / free agency.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
September 26, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this
Sometimes I think some of the post season awards go to the player with the best publicist. It is almost as bad as the Heisman in college ball. No wonder players want to go to New York, it’s where they get all the press.
It broke my heart that the Giants choked last night, saw it coming though. We can play the what if game all day long, it is not going to change a lot.
One thing the Braves do have is a heck of a foundation for next year. We might not make it this year, very long odds but look out 2008. Braves are going to be everybody’s pick to win.
By Stinky
September 26, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this
Jerry’s about to steal steal that old lady’s marble rye. Woohoo!
By Caleb
September 26, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this
Depending on how all the wildcard teams play, I find it funny/ironic that Mark Redman (who’s scheduled to pitch the opening game for the Rockies on Friday against Arizona) could contribute to the demise of both the Braves’ season and the Rockies’ season.
By Caleb
September 26, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this
Depending on how all the wildcard teams play, I find it funny/ironic that Mark Redman (who’s scheduled to pitch the opening game for the Rockies on Friday against Arizona) could contribute to the demise of both the Braves’ season and the Rockies’ season. He’d better do for them what he did for the Braves.
By David O'Brien
September 26, 2007 5:50 PM | Link to this
3Trees, I’m with you, man. I’d give it to Prince Fielder….
Buffalo Fan, that’s an interesting though on Andruw, moving to left when Schafer’s ready. Can’t imagine Andruw’d go for that, but it’s interesting.
Griff moved, somewhat reluctantly, at a much older age and after multiple surgeries. Andruw’s never even been on the DL, much as he’s played hurt.
I do think Schafer will be the Braves’ CF in 2009.
Someone asked about Brandon Jones. He’s a corner OF, not a CF. Again, a corner OF.
By Stinky
September 26, 2007 5:50 PM | Link to this
1 umpire from each league should be banished each year. The managers should vote on it at the end of the season and then “Asta La Vista Baby”. That would qualify under the checks and balances provision that all real Americans consider fair play.
By Chop Chop
September 26, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Cameo???? This disturbs me.
It’s better to like a lot of different music than just a few bands or singers, though. I’ve always respected that your musical tastes provide something for everyone here. For example, if all you did was post R.E.M. or Tim McGraw tunes, I’d never post here. Your interest in so many different musical genres really makes the music talk fun.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
September 26, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this
kevin Smoltz was acquired from the Tigers while still a minor leaguer and he spent time with the Braves minor league teams before getting to the majors. Steve Avery was also a Braves product. Jason Smidth and Millwood were also products of the Braves organization.
Maddux was an accomplished pitcher when he was signed but there have been many kids to come up through the Braves system who have made an impact.
Some of the better talent has been traded away but all those tiles came at a cost. The Braves have been in a position to win because of moves made. You cannot always pick someone’s pocket.
Good ballplayers come at a cost. Even Chipper Jones came at the cost of the Braves being one of the worse teams in the league so they were in a position to draft him.
By DonCoburleone
September 26, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this
It’s Tim Lincecum DOB… And yeah, I forgot about him… I don’t think Escobar even gets into the Top 5 for ROY….
By David O'Brien
September 26, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this
For what it’s worth, my informal survey of the clubhouse revealed two votes for Prince, a split vote for Prince and Holliday, and Chipper himself voting for either Prince or Holliday. “You can flip-flop ‘em, either one,” he said.
Chipper said he’s missed too many games and shouldn’t even be considered unless Braves make playoffs.
Bobby, by the way, in a general discussion of MVP, said he thinks the MVP should be the best player that season in the league, regardless of where his team finishes. “But I know the writers don’t see it that way,” Cox said.
He was referring to the general consensus, which seems to be that a player should come from a winning team unless there’s an overwhelming season by a player from a bad team, a performance so clearly superior to the other individual performances.
By Stinky
September 26, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this
Anybody who pitches in the World Baseball Classic should be ineligible for consideration for Rookie of the year honors.
By Paladin
September 26, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this
See you guys at game time. I’m going out for dinner. Let me go over my check list. Spectacles…testicles…watch…wallet. Yeah, I guess that’s got it. Au ‘Voir
By cutty
September 26, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this
Something happened in the Braves comeback win Sunday that I wonder how many people noticed or thought significant. Late in the contest Chipper and Tex hit back to back identical ground balls that the second baseman backhanded.Our MVP candidate jogged his out and was thrown out by a step. Tex ran hard and was safe by the same step. He scored the tying run and the Braves won.How many times in the last few years have the Jones boys conserved energy on ground balls and at what cost?
By Gil in Mechanicsville
September 26, 2007 6:06 PM | Link to this
DOB Hopefully the Braves will recognize Moylan’s good work with a nice raise next year or maybe a bonus. Think that could happen? I don’t know what the club’s policy is but I think it would be a way to give some of these guys some well deserved thanks and recognition.
By the way, told you folks you would like this kid Manny Acosta. He has a little trouble finding the strike zone sometimes but he looks like Soriano’s twin brother. Both are tall and lean and really bring it…..
By Stinky
September 26, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this
Paladin forgot his walker and his nurse.
By Stinky
September 26, 2007 6:11 PM | Link to this
Bionic Wednesday. Tonight. Starting at 8.
By Braveheart
September 26, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this
Yeah, Gil, Manny “Need Food, Will Pitch” Acosta is damn good. We better keep him hungry. Don’t let him get too Americanized on us like Andruw. Liked your points about things coming at a cost. Even signing good players like Chipper and Andruw earlier in the decade before budget cuts ended up costing the Braves talent after the budget cuts. You need and want good players like Chipper and Druw around but then it costs you having Glavine, Millwood, and Maddux around because the owners all of a sudden got real cheap and Chipper and Andruw were taking up so much payroll.
By Notorious Ziti (aka ncscoots)
September 26, 2007 6:22 PM | Link to this
Gil, I like Acosta, too, but he’s not really a kid, is he? Thought he was just a little younger than Teixeira?
By Stinky
September 26, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this
Prince Fielder hates his daddy. That’s unAmerican.
By Braveheart
September 26, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this
Are we stuck with the ESPN fellas tonight? I’d rather hear Joe & Boog or Chip than those clowns. But I guess it’s good because so many of our out of state denizens can watch it on ESPN.
By Stinky
September 26, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this
Lothar: I am Lothar of the Hill People! Much have I have seen, and much have I done, for I am Lothar of the Hill People!
Faldor, Tyler, of what do you speak?
Tyler: We speak of many things! The hunt! Fire! The weakness of women!
Lothar: Do not tell me that women are weak! For today, my woman has cast me out of the hut!
Faldor: Mine, as well!
Tyler: My woman, also! She behaves as if I am unimportant!
Lothar: Yes! I am Chieftan of all the Hill People! But in my own hut, I am deemed no better than foul humors discharged from the body!
Faldor: Ah, yes. I, too, have worn the brown helmet. It vexes me!
Lothar: You know, I will do battle with my woman, and lose. I will do battle with my woman, and win.. and yet, I still lose! And I am supposed to feel great sorrow for her! I swear, by Zeena’s teats, if I hand her advantage on the field of war, I would be a god.
Faldor: To this, I can relate. At dawn, I leave the hut; my woman is happy in her toil. When I return from my daily gathering, I am tired and hungry; there is no food or fire, because she has dragged out her ceremonial betroval skins and spent the day weeping because they do not fit. And somehow all this is my fault! I tell you, that ties a knot in my pelt! And now, her family has come to comfort her. They have been with us since Nordis blew his icy breath. And, I tell you, if her brother is not out of my hut by piping time, there will be a clubbing!
By Stinky
September 26, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this
I would rather substitute sandpaper for Charmin than listen to Chip.
By David O'Brien
September 26, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop, Cameo was good, old-school funk back in the early 1980s, then they became commercialized and mainstream.
Tim McGraw is terrible, overproduced pop disguised as new country (but that’s just my opinion).
By the way, got two George Jones remastered reissues last week, Golden Ring and Grand Tour.
By Elmer
September 26, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this
Dat notowious thug David O’Bwien wites weal good. I wike his wywics too. I wike my wywics even bettaw:
I’m wookin’ fo a wiwd cawd bewth… But some dwatted team in my way. Huddy vewses Kywe Wohse? Bwaves vewses Phiwwies? Philliew wisten wight now… I’m a mean mistweetah, A Phiwwie feastah, And I pwedict A bwoody sewies. A scuwowing shadow And dah shadow was dis Phiwwy wabbit. And dah night aiwah echoes… Kill dah wabbit!!!
Kill dah Phiwwys!!! Kill dah Padwes!!! Kill dah Wockys!!! Wiwd Cawd bewongs to Bwaves! Ohhhh…and dayah won’t be any mow awound. No mow Phiwwies. No mow Wockies. And no mow Padwes! Ah ha ha ha ha!!! Be vewy vewy cawhafo… I wuv my Bwaves. Go Bwaves, get wot’s of Wuns and beat thowse Philfy Phiwwies!!!
By Greg in TN
September 26, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this
Braveheart Actually FSN also has the broadcast tonight, so denizens in the SE are not tied to the ESPN feed.
By Lothar
September 26, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this
Lothar: My woman’s family dwelled among us for some time. My woman would not walk with me while they were in our hut. She felt her matriarch would not approve of her walking with a man. I told her that her mother must have walked freely with somebody at sometime, or she would not be here for this conversation. My point was futile. It was like trying to tell the people not to eat monkey heads!
Tyler: Ah. There are days that I am so troubled, that I swear I will never walk with a woman again! And keep only the company of men!
Faldor: I have a brother who made that pledge.
Tyler: Oh, do not be misled.. the urge to walk with women is still there, there has never been any question of that! But my woman is so unpredictable! After the last great hunt, I stopped by the council fire and the feast!
Lothar: Ah, I know it well - it was a good feast, albeit a formal one.
Tyler: I drank many falgens of mead, as is my custom, and invited my fellow warriors to the hut for a game of sticks and rocks. I sent my woman ahead to prepare for us, but when I arrived, I found my personal collection of sacred relics and amulets scattered outside the hut, as if thrown with great force! Above the door is the Talisman of Gleadley, signifying death to all who cross it! Since then, I have been in the company of men!
Lothar: I have seen woman behave like this - they frighten cattle!
Faldor: What gives women such power? We are the warriors! We are the chieftans!
Lothar: Yes! Who smoked the Tree People when they attacked with a force three times greater than our own - women?
Tyler & Faldor: No!! Men!!
Tyler: And who was it that redirected the River Zoro, so the harvest would be more bountiful!
All: Men!!
Faldor: And who is it that can write their name in the snow without using their hand! Men!
[ Lothar are Tyler stare at Faldor ]
Lothar: Well.. that is a lesser point.. But you are a man, and we will overlook it!
Tyler: Yes! Slacks shall be cut for you, my friend!
Lothar: And who is better at creating a social and domestic order - one in which we can all create, and be at our best? [ pause ] Again, that is a bad example. Let us sing a song to help us forget about women!
Tyler: Yes!
Lothar: Yes! Let us sing “The Man Song”! You know the tune!
[ they stand ]
All: [ singing ] “Men, men, men, men Men are better than women! Men are stronger Men are better Men are better than women!”
[ they laugh ]
Tyler: I am filled with camaraderie!
Faldor: Let us sing another verse!
Tyler: Yes!
Woman’s Voice: Lothar? Lo-thar!
Lothar: Uh.. I can tell by the position of the sun in the sky, that is time for us to go. Until next time, I am Lothar of the Hill People!