Braves

By ppaddy123

September 26, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

I thought we were going to pick up ground on everybody last night but the Rockies and Padres both won late.

By Greg in TN

September 26, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

There is a 0.00825 percent chance I am first…

By KW

September 26, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

Dave appreciate the positive thought, but that would have to go down as the most monumental collapse (Padres, et al) to ever happen, and the greatest rise (Atlanta). We really needed the Padres to lose last night to still be talking about this, but I have to say it is great to finally see the Braves playing well. We can always look forward to next season.

By this sounds so smart

September 26, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

this sounds like those baseball analysts that say “bonds in on pace to hit 264 home runs in one year” when he starts out hitting 3 in the first 2 games of the year.

put it to bed already.

By TN Jeff

September 26, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

Hudson & Smoltz and pray for Lightning Boltz

By Novice Ned

September 26, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

Likewise, it is still possible that James will pitch a complete game in the last contest of the season. Last night’s game was fun but I lost my wind with Giles’ homer and the Rockies victory. But it is good to see the good guys do their job and win these games. Boy, losing 3 of 4 to the Reds was a real kick in the family jewels. If only…

By BULL OF THE WOODS

September 26, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

Try to imagine where the Braves could be had Teixeira been with them all year. They could be sitting on a 5-10 game lead right now, even including their less than stellar pitching.

By Greg in TN

September 26, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

Afternoon Braves Nation…

It seems that the Pads and the Rockies did not get last night’s amended script in what the boys in Bristol have been calling the last few seasons “The Hunt for October”.

Still need help, however we also still need to continue to take care of business like we did last night at the house wiffleball built. If we are able to continue the status quo, it puts pressure on the lads of Petco and Coors respectively to follow suit.

The days of the season are dwindling down, and I look upon the end of this season with a little sadness in the fact that the Braves on TBS relationship that has endured and prospered for thirty years only has days left. I’ll comment more on that over the weekend, denizens, but suffice to say I’m already starting to feel nostalgic for Ernie Sr, Skip and Pete.

Big game tonight, another playoff type crowd in Philly.

Go Braves!

By Brian

September 26, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

No matter how this ends, at least the end of the season has been a lot of fun. Who knew this would happen? I thought this season was a lost cause.

By Adirondackdave

September 26, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

The Braves streak right now is great but this decrepit brain can’t keep up with the probability numbers. Let’s just keep winning and see what happens. On another subject… I’m hoping for a 1+1 contract with Andruw. A long-term contract scares me almost as much as losing his glove entirely.

By Allen

September 26, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

Earlier this year Huddy had the Marlins beat—twice!—only to have the bullpen blow it. How huge those games seem now

By Bill

September 26, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

This is the play-off. Must win the next five games! Everything else will take care of its self.

By Allen

September 26, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Earlier this year Huddy had the Marlins beat—twice!—only to have the bullpen blow it. How huge those games seem now

By JD

September 26, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Brian Giles killed the Braves last night. Freakin’ Giants!

By Braveheart

September 26, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

Shaun, thanks for that link to the ESPN article. It was really good. Hoping you took the funnin’ this morning as just harmless joshing.

DOB, reading one of your blogs without a lyrics section makes me feel like AJ Soprano, “What, no f***!ng ziti, now?”

By Andrew

September 26, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

There is a .0000000001 percent chance the Falcons win the Super Bowl.

By justin

September 26, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Someone else that agrees finally that a 1-6 record against the Reds is totally unbelievable. The other kick in the teeth was obviously the past 6 or 7 games against the Mets. It is nice to see the Braves playing well, and even if it doesn’t result in a playoff berth, at least it gives us fans something nice to think about over the next 6 months, while we resort to watching old World Series videos and remembering how nice it was to see a big champagne bath…..We have been spoiled, but the Braves are on the verge of being a serious contender for a World Series again…..provided the pitching is found.

By raindawg722

September 26, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

You know what Jim Croce said about Slim …

You don’t tug on Superman’s cape You don’t spit into the wind You don’t pull the mask off the old Lone Ranger And you don’t mess around with Slim.

By bobolink

September 26, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Like Willie Mays said, “It’s not over till it’s over. Kick the team up Bobby!

By Slade

September 26, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

There is a 0.16320% chance of winning the division….but only a 10% chance of that.

By TennesseePaul

September 26, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

So you’re telling me there’s a chance.

Hey, what was all that 1 in a million talk?

GO BRAVES!!

By GrayDawg

September 26, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

If we do nothing but pass Philly, I would be happy. Seeing them end the season in 3rd place would be priceless!

By Lawrence

September 26, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

I REALLY wish the Braves would stop playing with my emotions, but I have to admit this is the most excited I’ve been about the Bravos in quite some time!

By TennesseePaul

September 26, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

We very well could miss this post season by 1 or 2 games. I’m pointing towards Mark Succubus Redman. April 6th, Home Opener vs. the Mets. Mark Redman started. Game result: Braves lost 1-11. April 13th, against the Marlins, Mark Redman Started. Game Result: Braves lost 4-11.

By Greg Moundine

September 26, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

Braves will prevail! Go Braves!

By biff pocaroba

September 26, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

it would be nice.

hey DOB, why is there no talk of renteria moving to the outfield, and frenchy to center? frency was a centerfielder in the minors wasn’t he? then, spend the loot on pitching.

By biff pocaroba

September 26, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

it would be nice.

hey DOB, why is there no talk of renteria moving to the outfield, and frenchy to center? frency was a centerfielder in the minors wasn’t he? then, spend the loot on pitching.

By Kentavo

September 26, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

Okay, now DOB has cursed them. Remember how they faltered everytime there’d be a blog post proclaiming: Must-win series'' orBraves can get back in it if they can sweep so and so, and it’s a possibility with Smoltz and Hudson up next.”

They’re playing well because they dropped off the radar - now that the pressure’s on - they’ll fold.

Seriously, how many “must-win” games and series have these guys dropped this year.

That being said, this season is still an improvement upon last season - recordwise - and I look for further improvement next year resulting in the Wild Card spot, with the acquisition of a third, proven starter and the departure of the human rally killer Andruw Jones.

By Darryl

September 26, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

It’s soooooo good to read decently positive blogs. Makes you feel good to be an Atlanta sports fan. I’m pulling for them. And yes that it’s sad that the Braves/TBS relationship is ending. Fate changing moments in Atlanta sports history…Dan Reeves firing…Dominique trade….Ted Turner selling the Braves and TBS to Time Warner…what could have been.

By GT80

September 26, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

It is really going to suck when the Bravos finish 1 game out of the wildcard. It’s a long, long season, but to finish 1 game out brings up all the losses that just shouldn’t have been, like the blown games the bullpen (and Bobby’s stubborness) caused Huddy, the inexcussable record against Cincy. Oh, this will drive me crazy.

I’m hoping and praying they get in the playoffs. If so, we really have the team that can win it all.

By Braveheart

September 26, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

The bottomline is this: Just win baby! If they win all the remaining games, I have a feeling they will get in. If not, then, oh well, they at least gave us alot of fun here towards the end. This is almost funner than having a first place division title winning team that wins by 7-10 games every year that you just know will get bounced out in the first round which is exactly what they do.

For too many years, the Braves never had to climb the stairway to heaven and knock on heaven’s door. Heck, they didn’t even know there was a stairway or a door. Climbing the stairway to heaven and knocking on heaven’s door and being denied a few times makes it that much sweeter when God gives Gabriel the okay nod to let you walk through the gates of heaven.

It’s always funner to watch the team build and take baby steps - to go from 79 wins to 86 or so wins to 95 wins the next year than some machine which renders regular seasons boring and postseasons predictable.

If they make the postseason this year or next, I’m betting there will be no problem selling out postseason games.

By fastasballs

September 26, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

All the Braves can do is win out & hopefully that’s enough to make it in, if not it’s a giant building block for next season.

We all can rattle off 10 or more games the Braves blew & the lack of starters etc, etc. The biggest difference I see is Cox managing the past two weeks like he should have been all season. Even with the back of rorations problems, Andruw’s bad season, & injuries, all could have been overcome with a little more sense of urgency from the manager & players earlier in the season.

For the past two weeks Cox has run the best line up out there regardless of favorites & little if anything has been heard from Woodward or Oscar V. He’s been quick to yank pitchers who were on the verge of losing it, not wait the additional 3-4 batters he would have earlier in the season. Also the pinch hitters being sent to the plate actually have a chance of hitting the ball.

Now the flip side of that is the roster being expanded HAS given Cox much more flexibility with the pitchers & bench.

I do think the Braves are 10 times better off when Cox’s management style is proactive instead or reactive. Meaning he makes the move prior to the disaster happening based on prior experiences with the player in question in similar circumstances. Basically the way he has been managing the past two weeks.

By YellowIsTheColorOfP**S

September 26, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

All those blown saves have really come back to haunt this team!

By ObiWanKobe

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

I live in the L.A. area, and watched some of the LA/Colorado game, and LA is playing all their kids, so I wouldn’t expect too much help from them. They started Andy LaRoche!!! He’s horrible!

By bravesdude

September 26, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Lets just hope that we can do 3 things in the off season.

1) Lock up Tex….multi year and pay him

2) Re-sign Glavine….not only does it help our rotation, it hurts the Mets rotation.

3) Let Andruw go and sign Tori Hunter to multi-year deal…best long term decision based on Andruws declining performance(this one hurts because i love Andruw)

Thats it….we will win the whole show next year!!(notice my optimism) Though im not very optimistic about our chances this year. If we had played this way the entire year, wed have the best record in baseball by now….oh well…..always next year!!

GO BRAVES!!!

By rob

September 26, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

The rockies and padres comebacks made the scenario a lot more difficult. All the Braves can do is win them all and let the chips fall where they may. A good season this year no matter what. The stinking Cincinatti Reds are to blame for this.

By Jim

September 26, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Lets see….. we’ll take care of the Phillies…..then maybe we can get the umpires to help blow out the knees of some more prominent Padres players….and then maybe there will be a freak snow storm that buries the Rockies and they can’t complete their season…..yeah, I think we got a chance!

By dan

September 26, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

THE BRAVES MAY NOT MAKE THE PLAYOFFS. AT LEAST THEY WILL FINISH ON A WINNING NOTE.GOODBYE TBS AND PETE AND SKIP. YOU’LL BE MISSED. THIS WHOLE BIG RUN WAS FUN WITH YOU GUYS SPEAKING ABOUT IT. WHO KNOW’S WHAT NEXT YEAR WILL BRING.

By Armstrong

September 26, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

biff pocaroba

The reason nobody has talked about that is for many reasons…One being that Renteria is our biggest trading chip for a starter that will ALSO make more payroll room. If we move him to the outfield, who do we have to trade? Lillibridge is unproven to play everyday if we trade Escobar, same with Martin Prado, and nobody is going to take somebody that unproven alone for the pitching we need.

Another is that Renteria is an experienced veteran and a team leader who has won All Star berths, Gold Gloves and Silve Sluggers at his position and is competing for a batting title this year. You just don’t move players like that…

Braves player’s salaries alone are expected to rise the payroll to around 95 million or so IF I’M NOT MISTAKEN. I may be, but from what I’ve read, that seems to be the case. So we need to preserve as much money as we can, because nobody really knows how high this ceiling is that Liberty Media is giving us.

Any disagreements?

By Braveheart

September 26, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

McGregor/Guiness I have never seen him play but what makes you think Andy Laroche is horrible. He’s got incredible stats in the minors, only 74 at bats in the majors, 18 walks in those 74 at bats. I have never seen him but he’d probably be alright if they just let him play. He might take a while like his brother but he’s supposed to be better than Adam.

By Pitbull 7

September 26, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

The Braves showing the whole baseball world that we are not quiters..we will fight till the end..this is how it should be..play for the fun and play for your town..Braves have nothing to be a shamed about DOB you are great thanks for the excellent writing. GO BRAVES for McGRIFF’s sake..do it for FRANSISCO CABRERA’s memory..Remember..?

By South Georgia Chad

September 26, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

I’m starting to get butterfiles like it’s 1991 all over again and waking up at 2:30 a.m. to check the late game scores on ESPN.

I think it’s still a longshot but I’m proud to be a Braves fan after witnessing their fight to the finish.

Beware; if this team does get in Watch Out!

By Joe

September 26, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

Imagine if interleague was not a part of the deal. The 4 games we are behind is exactly how many more games both the Phillies & Mets won in interleague play

By Darrin "The Vent King"

September 26, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

Wrong KW- the Braves did it worse to the Giants back in ‘94. THAT WAS THE BIGGEST MOUMENTAL COLLASPE of all-time concerning the division race. Anything can and has happened. I’m not saying it will, but stranger things have already happened before.

By Shaun

September 26, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, No offense taken. I take pride in the teasing in that it shows that maybe I look at things differently than a lot of people.

By Kentavo

September 26, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Fastaballs, I totally agree with your assessment of Cox. If only he would do this stuff all season long, we would be in first and not scraping for a playoff spot.

By Overlord

September 26, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

WFor all of you that think braves should have made the playoffs because there were like 10 games they should have won and didnt……..think again, thats not a trademark for the braves, every team in the league have many games like that. just ask the giants last night and the yankees. Its part of all sports. Not to make excuses.

But, dont lose faith, think positive, human mind has lots of power. Braves WILL make the playoffs, sit down and enjoy the show.

By bob

September 26, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Braves are in the hunt, but it’s like this: It’s one thing to hear a fart, but an entirely different thing altogether to smell a fart.

By Ole Man Bourbon

September 26, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

I know we’re just going to barely miss getting in, but I would give a toe to win the division on the last day of the season.

By Ramblin Gamblin Wreck

September 26, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Milton Bradley is out for the Padres due to another of his typical rants. Thus their power is gone.

Maybe…

As the Wild Card, we would love to open against the Mets.

By Shaun

September 26, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

fastasballs and Kentavo, I agree that Diaz should have been playing everyday all along but other than that, I’m not sure what Cox is doing differently besides maybe keeping his pitchers on a shorter leash. But he couldn’t do that earlier because it’s a long season and you need pitchers. He has to use his best pitchers now because they can’t afford to lose any more games.

By ppaddy123

September 26, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe the AJC wiill let you say fart on the blog, but not A$$

By Steve

September 26, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Wildcard or not, this late season run will be a big boost for next season. Get one quality starter and hope that Hampton can win 10-12 games. I’m not totally against trading Renteria for a pitcher, but he is one of my favorites and I’d hate to see him leave especially at his bargain salary. Escobar is ready to be an everyday player.

By biff pocaroba

September 26, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

ARMSTRONG

moving edgar allows escobar to play ss. he is a better, faster, younger talent at the position.
your lineup is then yunel edgar chipper tex frenchy mccann dirty diaz kelly pitcher

solid

you will have m,oney from andruw, you will have money from liberty, spend it on 1 starter. throwing $15M at mike Cameron or Rowand is a mistake.

mcann

By Bob, Journalist

September 26, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Regardless of how things go, here’s hoping Chuck gets an additional pitch … methinks the “non-homerun” ball would be a good one on which he could work.

As we approach the end of this season it’s easy and natural to look back and and point to missed opportunities and “reasons” why we find ourselves where we are today.

Everyone seems to have a formula for winning … from Hyperactive Leo’s down and away to Earl’s 3 run homer. I don’t like such formulae but do believe that the team needs to do a better job do developing its game specific offensive plan and players need to be better focused relative to the opposing battery’s dynamic player and situation specific plan.

I’m pleased as punch with the team’s current level of play but am concerned that the success could result in a continuation of the status quo, relative to game preparation and approach.

It was surprising to see so many “new found confidence” references I found on the Internet … of course, Chipper’s remarks over the last 12 months have suggested the possibility of significant differences between that which was being expressed and that which was.

It still ain’t over …

By True Braves Fan

September 26, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Well isn’t this something…all of you fairweather braves fans have come back! welcome! 2 weeks ago 90% of the fans in atlanta hated everything about this team. You guys make me sick. 2 weeks ago you hated bobby cox, chipper jones, john smotlz…everyone! and i’m sure if the braves miss the playoffs you will forget this great run they are having and go back to your old fairweather ways. you guys make me sick. win or lose, cheer for your team. it’s too bad you were spoiled with 14 years of success. i hope, just for the sake of the braves fans we lose 14 years straight. it will serve you all right.

By AZBravoFan

September 26, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Regardless of what happens, I think this Philly series is great experience for the young guys. For guys like Escobar, Diaz, Bennett, Moylan, Acosta, Soriano,heck even Chuck James, the excitement and the must-win pressure of these games will be valuable next year as they go down the stretch and hopefully get into the post-season. And if they somehow pull off the miracle this year? Well it will go without saying that for the first time since ‘91 or ‘95 they will be peaking at exactly the right time. It sure would be interesting to see how they could do entering the playoffs as the hot underdog as opposed to the bored division winners that have flamed out in the past. So I’m gonna enjoy this while it lasts. Go Braves!

By Paladin

September 26, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

I just returned from my nap only to read “bob’s” 1:54 post. Boy, is that inspiring. I vote to have it removed.

By Shaun

September 26, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

Darrin “The Vent King”, you probably mean ‘93. Actually the 1964 Phillies blew a 6-1/2 game lead with 12 to play. That’s probably the worst collapse in major league history.

By Daybed Wagmoe

September 26, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

any news on soriano’s suspension?

By Las Vegas Louie

September 26, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

I’m all in. I just took out a home equity loan and dropped $20,000 on the Braves to win the Wild Card. Hey, I’m a bettin’ man, but I ain’t dumb. I’m not going to squander the money bettin’ they’ll win the division. But I am going to retire on the beach in Honduras or someplace real fancy-like when the Braves win the Wild Card and I win that bet. So go kick some Philly-Butt, Bravos! Pete and I got a lot riding on you!

By sam in KY

September 26, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

brilliant point about the fart, bob…but, how exactly do you connect that to the braves situation?

By Paladin

September 26, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Maybe I can introduce “Slim” to the Fat Chick. Keep ‘em both busy while the Bravos take care of bidness.

By ppaddy123

September 26, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Hey Biff, did you take a foul off the facemask or something? That post (2:03) is whacky! Jabber Jabber Jab!

The bottom line with Edgar: if he stays; he plays short. I think a guy with his reputation has earned the right to not move from his position. If anyone moves on the infield, the logical choice is Kelly back to LF and Escobar at 2B. But you don’t hit Kelly 8th. No way a guy with a .379 OBP hits in front of the pitcher.

By TennesseePaul

September 26, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

I take pride in the teasing in that it shows that maybe I look at things differently than a lot of people.

This is the same thing Jeffrey Dahmer used to say concerning playing with and eating road kill as a child.

By ObiWanKobe

September 26, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/eticket/story?page=93pennant

By HomerDome

September 26, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Wait a minute…are you telling me the baseball season is still going on? Are you sure???

By Overlord

September 26, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Ramblin Gamblin Wreck SD power might be gone, but they hit 3 HR yesterday including a BOMB from Giles. Too bad for us they found some power from other sources, just hope they dont have anymore surprises.

My opinion on other situation is that KJ is the one that will be included in a trade, not yunel nor edgar.

Tex is not going anywhere, he will stay in hotlanta, ill bet anything on that. He loves this team, he feels this is his home, you can easily tell how good he feels here.

Tom is a mistake braves should not make. Enough oldies with john and hampton.

I said this morning, i saw CAIN las night, that guy should be in our uni next year as our #3 or #4 if hampton is ready to go. I agree with some of you that James is nothing but a #4 at best ( at least as we speak and im pretty sure it will be like that for at least middle of next season).

By who cares

September 26, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

Who cares? Even if they made it they’d just choke like always. It’s better not to get the city’s hopes up. Better luck next year.

By Brad

September 26, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

0.00825 chance?

so you’re saying there is a chance?

By VABRAVESFAN

September 26, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

What is the tie breaker for 3 or even 4 teams for the wildcard….what if one of those teams is the Padres and they are tied for the division lead as well?

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

September 26, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe I am saying this but the Braves have a legit chance to make the playoffs. They have their two aces going in the next two games with the Phils. That gives them an excellent chance of winning those games and they avoid Cole Hammels. I would assume Reyes and Carlyle will start the first two games against Houston, which doesn’t exaclty inspire great confidence but both are capable of bringing it so anything is possible. You know if the Braves still have a chance when Sunday arrives that Smoltz will pitch on three days rest.

It is entirely possible that the Padres could lose 4 or their last 5. The Brewers will still be alive when the Pads come to town tomorrow. The Rockies could also lose 4 of 5. Now, the Phillies are more of a question. They could possibly sweep the Nats but who knows.

This team is still alive. Who would have thought it just one week ago. All I will say is this about the Mets. I will laugh harder than I have ever laughed before if they blow this division. It is very possible that they could lose the rest of their games. The Nats have their number and the Marlins will have absolutely nothing to lose. Even if the Mets hold on it can’t be a division title they are that proud of. Talk about a team backing in!

By Braveheart

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

Maybe I can introduce “Slim” to the Fat Chick.

that’s usually the way it works. the skinny man with the fat woman, the fat man with the skinny woman. don’t often see two fatsos together.

By TennesseePaul

September 26, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

They started Andy LaRoche!!! He’s horrible!

HA! I love it. The Dodgers are rolling over like a bunch of, well, Dodgers. Putting any hope in them to help you out is pointless. But that knock on Andy cracks me up. He’s so highly regarded in the Dodger organization. So much so he is “untouchable” in a trade. We’ll see about that though.

By Overlord

September 26, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Las Vegas Louie you didnt do that!!!!!!!

By Mr Peanut

September 26, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

If Planters could put a net around this blog they would have enough nuts for the upcoming holiday season.

By BravesFanInRockies

September 26, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Las Vegas Louie,

Too late to reconsider the bet? If I were putting down any money it would be for the Braves to win the East. That’s right. The least complicated path to the postseason may well be for a) the Braves to win out and b) the Mets to lose out or to win only one more game and then lose a one-game playoff.

With five days to go, it’s easier to pass two teams than three. Not that anything’s easy this late in the year.

And what would the media in NY do if the Muts missed the playoffs? Oh the humanity.

By Mike Vick

September 26, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Yo dog (girgle girgle) I’m jus gonna sit back and watch dem Bravs win nowhutimsayn

By Overlord

September 26, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

ABRAVESFAN i think theyll send the muts and cubs home to make some room for real teams to play in the playoffs.

By Paladin

September 26, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

The “tie breaker” is to have Robert pick the best manager.

By Bob in Sandy Springs

September 26, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

As Yogi would say, “It aint over till it’s over”

By ppaddy123

September 26, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Braveheart you must not go to many “all you can ear buffets. ‘Cause take my word, them fatsos stick together at the buffet.

By Shaun

September 26, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul, actually Andy LaRoche played in 30 major league games this season. While he didn’t show much power, he did post a .383 OBP. Plus he’s hit .294/.374/.524 in his minor league career with a pretty good BB/K ratio. He’s only 23 so if I’m the Dodgers, I play him right now over pretty much anybody else.

By Braveheart

September 26, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Foul off the facemask!!!! That was hilarious ppaddy. maybe he’s smoking too much of that wacky tobaccey with MV7.

By Overlord

September 26, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

I do care.

If you dont care…… just dont waste your time blogging about the braves, it will make your life easier.

By Shaun

September 26, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for bringing up the Baseball Prospectus odds report. If I’d brought that up I would hear how unoriginal I am and how stats are worthless, etc.

By Michelin Man

September 26, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Hey Braveheart, I got me a Fat Chick so hang that in your ear.

By Fat Chick

September 26, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

No, Sandy Springs Bob, he said it ain’t over ‘til he hears me singing.

By Overlord

September 26, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Paladin that means we are already in!!!!!!! LOL

By keylargo25

September 26, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

Just wanted to let all of my GEOGRAPHICALLY challenged brothers out there know that ESPN has picked up the game tonight. No more of that watching MLB.com gameday at least tonight.

By MetsfaninATL

September 26, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

Robert (Justice…),

As a Mets fan, I couldn’t agree more. The Mets should be ashamed for backing in to the playoffs this way. What a joke.

That said: The Braves are done. But it’s been a nice run at the end of the year. Should be a good way to go into next year.

Now, I’m gonna go pop more tums and wait to see the results of tonight’s game.

MFIA

By Fat Chick

September 26, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Braveheart you must not go to many “all you can ear buffets. ‘Cause take my word, them fatsos stick together at the buffet.

Or in the Braves bullpen.

By The Grinch

September 26, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Mornin’, all. Braveheart, that Kurtis Blow thing was hilarious. Made me want to break out the parachute pants.

How ‘bout our boy Vick? Couldn’t even lay off the chronic ‘till sentencing. Wonder if that will affect the outcome. You know, I’ve supported him probably more than any white guy in Atlanta, but MY GOD I’m starting to wonder how he ever even memorized half the playbook. What a dumb@$$. I can’t even get mad anymore that he’s literally broke (already!) and thus we have no money to recoup for free agents; he’s just too pitiful to get mad at.

By Nad

September 26, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

The Bravos can be proud of this late push going into the off-season and not hang their heads. Plus, we’ll see how it goes tonight, but it looks like Smoltzie is hurting this late in the season. So I don’t think he would fair well this postseason. But I hope they prove me wrong!

It’s tough not to look back though on all those blown leads though. Just like when Kolb was the closer. What if we had just won 3 of them?

When your top 4 batters are hitting over .330 this late in the season, it shouldn’t be that hard to win games.

But I love the Braves and there’s always next year. Go Hampton!

By BamaBrave

September 26, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Just get us in the dance, boys…just get us in…

By Son of Sam

September 26, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

I take pride in the teasing in that it shows that maybe I look at things differently than a lot of people.

By Adirondackdave

September 26, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Good one, Mr Peanut.

By AZBravoFan

September 26, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Hey Tennessee Paul Don’t despair yet. Mark Redman may still have an impact on this race. He’s scheduled to start for the Rockies against the D’Backs on Saturday! Redman at Coors. I doubt the Rockies have enough H’s to overcome that.

By Armstrong

September 26, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

biff pocaroba

Then tell me, past that, who do we have to trade for a starter? As rare as quality pitching is becoming these days, I don’t know of any teams that would give up the pitching we need for Prado or Lillibridge, and from the whole Tex acquisation I really see it very unlikely that they make another 4-1 or 5-1 deal of a package of prospects. Prado and Lillibridge are not proven- and they are probably our best trading chips right now. Whoever makes a trade with us is going to want somebody proven in return, maybe a few people proven in return. Also, do you honestly think Renteria himself would move from a position he’s played in the majors since he was 19 years old and won numerous awards doing so? Also consider this as a factor as to why I think he would say no.

He left the Cards for the money when he went to Boston- same contract length, just one more million a year. Didn’t take that hometown discout, in a place where he was very successful. He’s making 9-10 million a year right now, and is coming off his second excellent season in a row. With the way the market is expanding, regardless of his age, if he keeeps his production up, he’ll probably be in line for another hefty payday when his contract is up. So why would he agree to risk all of that- moving to a less valuable position and risking the chance of poor stats resulting from it- just for the betterment of one team, when he easily left the Cards over one mil?

I love the guy as a player, he’s excellent, and a great leader. But it’s just not gonna happen.

By Edgar

September 26, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

The best gift ever for my birthday would be if the Giants rock out Peavy today.

By DonCoburleone

September 26, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

It is so frustrating to see this team playing so well so late in the season… Where was this run a month ago when it could have actually meant something???

By Apaul404

September 26, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

I prefer not to get my hopes up as the fellas have let me down several times before this year. Who would have thought a month ago we weould be talking about this? I apprecialte them having a little pride. BTW Chuck James sucks. Hitters count, just groove it down the middle… twice. Cant take muck more ove that. And would hate to see him in the playoffs. GO BRAVES!

By David O'Brien

September 26, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

ANOTHER BLOG IS UP, I just posted. Let’s see if we can’t flood two of these things with comments in the same day, shall we?

(signed) Notorious DOB.

By ppaddy123

September 26, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

Hey Fat Chick, I bet you ride a HOG!

By Thrillhouse44

September 26, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

Fitting how Fat Chicks have infiltrated the Pie/BBQ blog!

By Steamboat

September 26, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

Just reading ideas off the interenet: how ‘bout this one: Reyes, Boyer and Escobar to Pittsburgh for Ian Snell.

The Pirates get an affordable SS to replace Jack Wilson, who they could then trade (and save $13.5 mil over the next two years); and a couple of young starters to balance out the deal.

Snell is solid, and still won’t make real money for a few years.

Yes, we’d have to pay Renteria for at least next year and maybe ‘09 (unless Lillibridge replaces him), but he’s a lot cheaper than Glavine (who we wouldn’t need if we had Snell).

By Burt

September 26, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

DOB: Great sentiment, but you left out one important magic number — 3. That’s 86-71 San Diego’s magic number for locking up the wild card. Any combination of wins by SD or losses by the 83-74 Braves that add up to three gives the wild card to the Pads. So the Bravos could win all five of their remaining games, the if the Pads go just 3-2, SD is in.

Thems thin odds, all right!

By Braveheart

September 26, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

I’ve supported him probably more than any white guy in Atlanta

Grinch, i might have been more pathetic than you in defending him. If anyone would ever go back and read those Falcons blogs from last year, I had declared a damn jihad against all of his naysayers. But to see this, it’s just absolutely pathetic. Makes me feel like a complete fool. And you’re right, I’m not even angry at him. He’s too pathetic to be angry at. I have no idea how he knew the playbook. Maybe that’s why then never let him audible. Sometimes, I wish the two of us could sit down with him and say what the hell are you doing to yourself? What a freaking waste of talent. I hope that whatever he was doing in his personal life was worth losing everything for.

By tim

September 26, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Just think if the Braves had a REAL manager how many games they be in front. The nose-picker almost blew it again last night.

By Jim

September 26, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

Couple of corrections:

1) If the Rockies win 3 of 5 and Braves win 5 of 5, they would be tied, and the matter would come down to whether the Padres lose 3+ of their remaining games. Peavey pitches tonight which means he does not pitch against the Brewers unless they bring him back on short rest. If there is a 3-way tie with the Padres, Braves, and Phillies/Rockies, then Braves would get the option to play the winner of the first game (using Hudson or Smoltz) and the Padres would be forced to use Peavey in that first game. If a miracle were to happen, and the Braves were to make it into the playoffs, we would be playing the Diamondbacks — the other NL team besides the Reds that we did poorly against this year, and we would have to use Hudson or Smoltz in a playoff where they would have Webb rested for games 1 and 4.

A second comment on the blog that claimed the Giants collapsed in ‘94: The year was actually ‘93, ‘94 was the strike year, and the Giants won 103 games that year. The Giants didn’t collapse; the Braves played incredibly well and had the stronger pitching late in the season.

By Las Vegas Louie

September 26, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

Believe it, baby! I’d have taken out the home-equity loan for more had my wife not set the limit. Thanks for the advice, BTW, on the likelyhood of the Braves winning the division being the safer bet. Originally, I thought it wouldn’t be too good a bet, but … I’ve got money in the kids college fund I could temporarily leverage till win the bet and can put it all back … and then some! I how I love Las Vegas! Come on’ Bravos! Show me that money! Wild Card? Division? Who cares? I’m gonna be rich either way!

By Pete

September 26, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Dave, using your silly “anything is possible” logic, its also possible for me to have a date with Jennifer Anniston. Its over, so deal with it.

By mart

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

Like many fans for many different teams, I can’t help but wonder about all those games my team (Braves) blew in April, May, June, July, August and early September. If only … .

By bonzo

September 26, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

flew out to see a rockies game 2w ago. i like their chances. they have been playing well for quite a while, with a few lapses, and they are under the radar entirely. phillies pitching is really streaky, the padres cant hit consistently and the braves are hard to judge.

By mart

September 26, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

In addition——one has to feel good about the Braves going into next season. Despite all their faults, they’re going to end up winning more games than the world champion Cardinals did last year (I think).

By Jennifer A

September 26, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

Pete, I can’t find your number….call me, Jen

By sammy miller

September 26, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

The Mets are going to lose no matter what! Wow, two lucky years compared to 14 awesome years by us! Go Bravos lets win out baby!

By ppaddy123

September 26, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

Steamboat, you’re on crack! Escobar goes no where. PERIOD.

By Lew

September 26, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Pete-Perhaps the 64 Phillies didn’t want to date Jennifer’s grandmother, either. If you will recall (or you can take my word for it), the Phillies led the NL by 61/2 games with 11 left. They lost ten in a row and the Cardinals won the title on the last day. Yes, the Braves face improbable odds, but it ain’t over til it’s over. BTW, to the person attributing that quote to Willie Mays-????????Dude, that’s a Yogi-ism, pure and simple, based on the baseball cliche that the game isn’t over til the last man is out.

By RobbV

September 26, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

The Braves are coming on strong because they all want to use the free health equipment to tune up for nexts weeks golf games. Too little too late- they are not in control of getting into the post season -The Rock’s and Pad’s are in the cat-bird seat.

By Jim

September 26, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t trade Escobar even up for Snell. Escobar looks like a future star — a natural SS that can also play 3B and 2B. We do not have an emerging 3B to replace Chipper and Escobar could be the best option for that position if Lillibridge can be the future SS. In the near term we have to prepare for Chipper missing time on the DL. Who plays 3B if and when that occurs next year? Orrwood? Aside from our current and future needs, Escobar will win us more games next year than the differential between Snell and Reyes. Escobar looks like a baseball player and he brings a certain “attitude” to this team that can be contagious.

Defensively Renteria is only an adequate SS. He doesn’t make many errors (except at Fenway Park), but he has limited range and a weak arm. His position to any potential trading partner would seem to be 2B or DH. He does not have the power of the typical DH and he has never played 2B for any extended period. A DH without power or even a 2B man will not likely return a highly regarded starting pitcher. A veteran like Renteria would be of no interest to a team like the Pirates who need to rebuild around young players like Snell. (I don’t think I would trade KJ even-up for Snell either. I think he is only going to get better both defensively and offensively, and his patient approach at the plate is what the Braves need in more of their hitters. Remember, he is just completing his first FULL year in the majors.)

Reyes is just a kid who started the season in AA after jumping 2 levels in the minors last year. It is too soon to know what he is going to become, and as some have pointed out, if our rotation next year is going to feature Smoltz, Hampton, and maybe Glavine, we are going to have to replace pretty much the whole rotation within the next couple of years. We are going to have to grow and keep some of our own kids.

By dobearsbare

September 26, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

DOB: If Sunday’s game matters, will the Braves start Hudson on short rest rather than let Chuck J. take his regular turn?

By The Grinch

September 26, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

BH, as long as we didn’t include Lew in our “sit-down.” They’d be giggling and wolfing down doritos withing minutes; Mike’s ankle bracelet would go off then we’d wind up bailing Lew out as well.

By Mark Lemke

September 26, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

i think we will have to start huddy on sunday

By Steamboat

September 26, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

Nope, not on crack, but the day is still young.

Really, just sharing an idea I read elsewhere. Escobar hasn’t earned “untouchable” status, in my mind. He’s having a great run, though, and I hope it continues.

Given our depth at SS/2B, I would trade him, or KJ, or Edgar, straight-up for Snell (but agree that the Pirates wouldn’t be interested in Edgar). 25-year-old pitchers who throw 200 innings a year, strike out 175, and are years from free agency are a lot harder to find than middle infielders.

By Rhino

September 26, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

I couldn’t be happier with the Braves right now. At the beggining of the season I put a good sized wager that they would win 84 or more games. My disgust from a week ago has turned to pure joy! One more boys and we goin to sizzler!!!!

By ChampDawg

September 26, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

I’m glad the Braves have put on a winning streak here at the end of the season. Too bad they hadn’t the fire or desire to do this earlier. They’ll make it close but this team crapped in it’s own nest a long time ago. Where were all these wins when they really needed them?

By Jim

September 26, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

dobber,

If Sunday’s game matters, there will undoubtedly be a Monday or Tuesday game. If Hudson goes on sort rest Sunday and wins, Smoltz will have to go on short rest Monday. In that case, if the Braves were to get into the playoffs, they would only be available for games 3 and 4 and James would be pitching games 1 and 5. Hudson on short rest has not been good this year, so the Braves would be better off starting James with a quick hook and a long pen if he were to get into trouble. If the Braves make it to the weekend still in contention, they are going to have to rely on the likes of Reyes, Bennet, Cormier, Devine, and Ascanio to make major contributions, especially if there is no Soriano. (Any word on him yet?)

By mr baseball

September 26, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

The last 10 days or so have been enjoyable, but all the Braves have really done is severely damage the Brewers’ playoff hopes and maybe put the first nail in the Phillies’ coffin. San Diego winning with 4 in the 9th last night pretty much wiped out the Braves’ slim playoff possibilities.

At the risk of being smacked down by this site’s blogmaster and his devoted followers, I don’t think the stories on Glavine & Andruw the last 2 days were particularly noteworthy.

The idea that Glavine is the solution to the Braves’ starting pitching problems is preposterous. He’s past 40, will cost in the $10 million range and is essentially Chuck James with a few less HRs allowed and not quite as many strikeouts. Given that the Braves have 3 starters who will cost them around $40 million next year, there is no way Glavine is coming back, barring a decision by Liberty to boost the payroll to around $100 million. Not holding my breath.

Instead of obsessing over a 40-year-old ex-Brave, why not an examination of why an organization that has produced so many quality position players has not done nearly as well in the pitching department? And why so many of the once highly valued young arms in the farm system are now elsewhere?

The Andruw story has already reached its end, even though the parties involved may not want to admit it. Again, unless Liberty is willing to a huge payroll increase, he’s gone. Teixeira will be getting Andruw’s money and then some next year. With no legitimate starting CF on the current roster, the Braves are going to have to bring someone in at half Andruw’s salary or less. With Boras as his agent, there is absolutely no chance he accepts what the Braves might be willing to offer him. He’s gone. It’s a waste of newsprint to run quotes from teammates offering the hope he’s coming back.

Maybe I’m wrong on both counts, but I don’t see Liberty’s incentive to open up its wallets when the company acquired the Braves for purely financial reasons. The fact that they shelled out some bucks to acquire Tex and the 2 relievers is encouraging, so I guess there’s some reason for optimism regarding the payroll. I just don’t see spending the millions it would take to bring back Glavine and Andruw as wise uses of that money, however.

By rho_0407aa

September 26, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

The odds of the Braves winning the division based on those numbers is about 600 to 1. The odds of winning the wildcard is probably closer to 100 to 1.

By ChampDawg

September 26, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

I think it’s damn hilarious that now the Braves are trying to figure out how the solve the pitching problem by bringing Smoltz and Hudson back on short rest. If it works, great. Where the hell was all the managerial strategizing earlier in the season when the p**-poor 3-4-5 guys were doing absolutely nothing for this team? The inability to solve the pitching woes this year has cost us the Division and the playoffs.

By Jim

September 26, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Maybe a topic for future blogs would be to examine the Brave’s recent drafts. It seems this year that they did well in their first pick, but there were still some of the top rated pitching prospects around when they selected. Let’s hope Gilmour turns out to be a productive pick, but would a pitcher in the sandwich round have made more sense? And why did we waste a 2nde round pick on Fields? What was the understanding on his signability when he was drafted? We also did not sign our 8th round pick (a pick that was thought to have been a good one in that spot by Baseball America). Why take Dennis Dixon with an early round pick unless we intend to sell him to the Falcons for cash? I could see us taking a gamble on someone like Porcello or Brackman and not being able to sign them, but these players were signed by the teams that drafted them, and the Braves were the only team that did not sign 2 of its first 10 round picks. We also did not draft and sign a pitcher until the 4th round despite the organizational need.

Is the emphasis on high school players serving us well given how quickly and how prominently college players, particularly college pitchers have advanced to the majors. (Joba Chamberlain was available when the Braves picked first last year)

By ChampDawg

September 26, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

To hell with Boras! Andruw has said he wants to stay in Atlanta. So, the decision is clearly his to make. Will he accept want the Braves offer him in exchange for staying here or will he show his true colors and chance the money? If he wants to stay, he certainly can regardless of the money.

By dunwoody in denver

September 26, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

Hey Bonzo, how did you like Denver? It seems like we’re taking over; there are 3 families from ATL (2 from Gwinnett, the other from Conyers) on my street alone…

By gotigers72

September 26, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

A more perfect storm was ruined by the San Francisco bullpen imploding last night. I’m sick that the Braves probably aren’t going to the playoffs, but proud that they’ve played with the heart that they’ve played with lately.

Chuck could be in trouble. Bobby rdid NOT give him the old “Bobby pat on the back” when he removed him from the game last night. The last pitcher that happened to was Macay McBride, and he never threw another pitch in a Braves uniform. You know Bobby gets tired of these ragarms [3-5 starters] giving up leads.

Chuck is HoRam Jr. He had a good rookie season, as did HoRam, then was worse the next year, as was HoRam. I just don’t see Chuck getting any better, the same as HoRam. HoRam has an ERA over SEVEN! and the Mariners removed him from their starting rotation. I don’t think he will be playing baseball for a living much longer. And Chuck passed him last night for most homers given up in a season by an Atlanta pitcher with the astounding number of 32. YIKES! Chuck just can’t get the ball down and has just gotten worse as the year has gone on. NL hitters have him figured out. Wait long enough and he’ll give you a big fat pitch to hit out. He has been truly atrocious this year.

Someone else that may be gone is Roger McDowell. Did you see what happened after his mound visit to talk with Chuck last night? BAM, THE NEXT FREAKIN’ PITCH GETS HIT ABOUT 450 FEET BY RYAN HOWARD. Roger just has not done a good job with the young pitchers this year. Or over a 2 year period for that matter. NONE of them have improved over that time frame.

Now for something positive. How about Teixeira? He has absolutely raked since he came to the Braves. Project his numbers since August 1st for the entire year, and they would be 45 homers and 156 RBIs. Sick, just sick. And the Braves have him for the whole year next year! If he does that next year, the MVP will be a Brave. If Chipper and Teixeira rake next year like they have this year, the Braves will only need to add a little pitching [and a pitching coach], to get back to the playoffs where they belong.

By ObiWanKobe

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

Shaun, You obviously haven’t had the opportunity to watch LaRoche. First off, he’s 24, he’s hitting .230 w / 19 strike outs in 74 abs. He’s got no range. The only hits he gets are dead pull or off the end of the bat up the first base line. He’s also got a gigantic holey swing.

By BC6639

September 26, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

Remember ‘93!!!!

By jbutler

September 26, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this

Hey Dunwoody/Denver…I’m residing here in the Mile Hi…You on the Front Range - or in the mountains? We only hit one Rox game this year- but hoping to hit the Broncs/Steelers…Great to see another 5280 blogger!

By david

September 26, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this

This $ucks! Trying to figure out mathematically how we can win the division. I would rather go back to the old way of doing it, which is be way out in front by this time.

By J

September 26, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

lets get it

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

September 26, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

O’Brien , you have jinxed this team. Mets are winning 5-0 , the Braves are losing 4-2.

By David O'Brien

September 26, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball, who cares? Don’t read if the story’s not important to you. Lot of people care, one way or another, if Braves are planning to pursue Glavine and the possible end of Andruw’s time here.

Sorry, but they just do. A LOT of people.

You might not, but others do. So really, it doesn’t much matter if you disagree, does it?

By David O'Brien

September 26, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this

Steve, I’m gonna bet that if the Braves lose tonight, tomorrow, and every game in the Houston series, they still have a much better chance of making the postseason than you do of getting a date with Jennifer Anniston.

By Jake

September 26, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

“Slim” is looking anorexic right about now.

By Marc

September 26, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

They’re not going anywhere if they go back to their free-swinging, careless defensive ways again. They had seemingly righted the ship the last few games, but tonight was old frustrating Braves again with anxious and stupid baseball that cost them a game they should have won.

By some guy

September 26, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

Forget it, if the Padres win tonight, it’s over.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

September 26, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

Tough loss , no doubt. But , I get the feeling that Smoltz and the Braves will return the favor tomorrow night. It doesn’t matter that the Braves were never going to the post season , they will keep playing hard right up to the last out on Sunday. Go Braves !

By Philly Bob

September 27, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

Hello, Philly fan here. Your guys opened a can of Fulton County Whoopass on the Phils last night and benefited from the fact that Jamie Moyer has been leaking oil for the past month. We’re hoping for some tough baseball from the Braves tomorrow and you might benefit from having Adam Eaton on the mound for the Phils. Maybe not, but we still need the tough baseball to get us in fighting shape come the playoffs. Because, really, if there is a team that looks like it lost all its wheels it’s the Mets.

By David O'Brien

September 27, 2007 1:37 AM | Link to this

Slim is at the city limits.

By submariner

September 27, 2007 2:21 AM | Link to this

DOB, can you give us some realistic scenarios that the Braves might explore to address stating pitching in the off season?

By ROLLTIDE

September 27, 2007 2:44 AM | Link to this

SMOKE THEM PHILLYS!!!! YEAHHHH MANNNN

By wayne

September 27, 2007 4:17 AM | Link to this

The braves will NOT be in the 07 playoffs, book it. Nor, do they deserve to be.

By Steve

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

Brian Giles 3 run, 2 out homer Tuesday night (Wednesday morning)ended the Braves chances, and I think kept them out of the playoffs. Braves would have been 2 back, Padres would have been in fullpanic, and a Braves win last night (and the inevitable loss by San Diego had they not won the night before in dramatic fashion) would have had the Braves 1 game back with 4 to play. It would have come down to them and Colorado on the last day of the season.

Oh well, a good run to end the season. Let’s get some pitching for next yewar!

By Bob

September 27, 2007 9:57 AM | Link to this

It ain’t over until the fat lady sings… but she IS warming up. She could start belting it out tonight.

By Pete

September 27, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Pete-Perhaps the 64 Phillies didn’t want to date Jennifer’s grandmother, either. If you will recall (or you can take my word for it), the Phillies led the NL by 61/2 games with 11 left.

Lew, there is a big difference between 11 games left and 5 left. Thats the real problem here.