AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2007 > November > 09 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USGoin’ to Arizona to see some fall ball
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Looking forward to getting on a plane bound for Phoenix tomorrow morning, and not simply because it’ll be 90 degrees when I get there (but that sure sounds nice about now, doesn’t it?). No, I’m eager to see The Kid play a little fall ball, see if young Jordan Schafer is all that everyone says he is.
Just checked the latest stats for the Braves’ future center fielder (I’ll bet he’s manning CF by opening day 2009, perhaps even sooner) and saw that he was 1-for-12 in his last three games before today.
Not to worry — his average was still at .350 and his on-base percentage at .418. He was third in the batting race among players with at least 60 at-bats.
Before the mini-slump Schafer had gone 14-for-26 in his previous games to raise his average to .397. He’s 28-for-60 with six doubles and a homer for the Peoria Javelinas, and he’s one of the youngest players in the league, having just turned 21 in September.
“He’s done a great job out there, adapted just terrifically to the higher level of competition,” Braves player development director Kurt Kemp said of Schafer, who is one of the few top prospects out there who hasn’t played above A-ball.
Meanwhile, the Braves continue to turn up rocks and pound the phones trying to find the stopgap replacement CF for Andruw Jones.
I’m hearing the same names you folks are, waiting for something substantial, for one name to emerge ahead of the others. I’ve talked to several people, and I’m talking to some beat guys in other cities who are snooping around, too.
Maybe it changes an hour from now and I hear something that leads me to believe one guy has emerged as the favorite. But not yet. So I’ll keep asking about the likes of Boston’s Coco Crisp, Kansas City’s David DeJesus, the Angels’ Chone Figgins, Toronto’s Reed Johnson, Cincinnati’s Ryan Freel, and San Francisco’s Randy Winn, among others.
Some seem a lot more realistic than others. Obviously Chone Figgins would be just about a perfect fit, a versatile player who has plenty of CF experience and hit .330 with a .393 OBP and 41 steals in only 115 at-bats last season. Hello, leadoff man. However, the Angels have teams lined up interested in Figgins, who’s making $4.75 mill next season and then should make plenty more in his final year of arbitration in 2009, before becoming a free agent.
I’d rank him first among affordable (salary-wise) or somewhat affordable possibilities, well ahead of Coco Crisp, who’s better defensively but hit just .268 with a .330 OBP and .382 slugging percentage this season and lost his job to rookie Jacoby Ellsbury late in the season. Crisp, once a power-hitting Indians prospect, has only 14 homers in over 900 at-bats over the past two seasons, and showed no more power this season than he did when his sore wrist was blamed for sapping his power in ’06.
Making him even less likely is the high asking price the Red Sox want in a trade for Crisp, who’s owed $4.75 mill in ‘08 and $5.75 mill in ‘09, with an $8 mill option and $500K buyout for 2010. Too much money, too long a commitment, and too much in trade (Braves already said “no way” to a reported Kelly Johnson-for-Crisp proposal).
David DeJesus has a lot of pluses, not the least of which is a very reasonable contract — $13.3 mill over the next four years. Royals GM Dayton Moore, a former Braves asst. GM, says the Royals are unlikely to trade DeJesus, whose average slipped from .295 in 2006 to .260 in 157 games in 2007, his first season with more than 122 games.
Maybe Dayton’s just trying to drive up the asking price, trying to get plenty in return for DeJesus. I don’t know if the Braves would want to make a four-year commitment, even at that reasonable rate. Then again, you could always trade DeJesus again or use him at another position after Schafer arrives.
Winn is a solid all-around player who hit .300 with 42 doubles and 14 homers for the Giants, including 10 homers on the road away from pitcher-friendly AT&T Park. He’s got a .286 career average in 10 seasons, double-digit homers in seven consecutive seasons (20 in 2005) and a ton of experience in CF and in LF.
But the switch-hitting vet is owed $8 mill in 2008 and $8.5 mill in 2009 and I can’t see any way Braves trade for him unless they can get San Francisco to pay a chunk of that salary.
Ryan Freel might be at least a remote possibility from Cincinnati, but I can assure you Ken Griffey Jr. is not. Braves haven’t talked to Reds about Griffey and have no plans to.
And considering Freel hit .245 with three homers in 277 at-bats last season, including just two homers in 40 games at the most hitter-friendly home ballpark in the majors, and he’s owed $3 mill in 2008 and $4 mill in ’09 … uh, well, I don’t see that happening.
Looking for lefties: The Braves are expected to land one left-hander in the next week or two, soon-to-be 42-year-old starter Tom Glavine. If they don’t sign the free agent, I and most of baseball would be very surprised.
It could happen next week anytime after the Tuesday start day for teams to talk contract figures with other teams’ free agents, but don’t be surprised if it takes a little longer. Glavine isn’t going to take the Braves’ first offer, I’d imagine, not when teams such as Washington have made it clear they’d also be interested should he choose to even consider other proposals.
But whatever happens, whatever posturing occurs, whatever rumors of the Braves’ big being too low or the Nationals making a great offer, I really don’t see Glavine signing with any team other than the Braves. Maybe if the Braves just flub this thing up and come in with an embarrassingly low offer, he’d look elsewhere, but I don’t see that happening.
Meanwhile, Braves are also trying to land a lefty reliever, whether that be re-signing Ron Mahay or trying to get a cheaper option if Mahay’s price goes too high, which could well happen since so many teams are interested in him.
Mahay’s come this far and now has his first crack at a big free-agent deal, so you can expect that he’s going to test the waters and not sign anything too quickly.
Chipper “shocked” by Wright Gold Glove: I talked to Chipper Jones a few hours after the Gold Glove awards were announced on Tuesday, and he seemed at least as surprised as most of us were that Mets 3B David Wright got the NL award.
Wright had the fifth-most errors (21) among NL third baseman, and his .954 fielding percentage was fifth-lowest among NL third baseman, far behind the top three of San Francisco’s Pedro Feliz (.973), Chicago’s Aramis Ramirez (.972) and Chipper (.971), who had nine errors in 126 games at third base.
“I wouldn’t have been disappointed had someone like Feliz or Ramirez won it,” Jones said. “I’m a little confused by the final tally — that’s a head-scratcher for me.”
The managers and coaches do the voting for Gold Gloves, and I told Chipper it wouldn’t be the first time their votes were swayed as much by a player’s hitting totals as his defense. Wright hit .325 with 30 homers and 107 RBIs in 160 games.
“Then [Miguel] Cabrera should have won it, if that were the case,” Chipper said of the theory. And he had a point, though Cabrera’s defense is so shaky that it would be ridiculous to award him a Gold Glove.
“When I find out [Wright won] I was speechless, for quite some time,” Chipper said. “Certainly the guys with the least amount of errors and best fielding percentage quite obviously didn’t win it.”
This afternoon I was going over stats and started comparing. And it made me realize, again, just how potent Chipper’s bat has been whenever he’s been in the lineup the past two seasons.
Consider this: Wright had what was widely hailed as a terrific offensive season, batting .325 with 40 doubles, 1 triple, 30 homers, 113 runs, 107 RBIs, a .416 OBP and a .546 slugging percentage (.962 OPS).
Now consider this: Chipper played 24 fewer games than Wright, and Hoss hit .337 with 42 doubles, 4 triples, 29 homers, 108 runs, 102 RBIs, a .425 OBP and a .604 slugging percentage (1.029 OPS).
Wright killed him in steals (29 to 5), but otherwise Chipper’s numbers are all nearly equal or better than Wright’s, in 24 fewer games.
Chipper got hot at the plate in late June 2006, and the only thing that’s cooled him for any significant stretch since then has been a couple of stints on the DL. Each time, he’s come back from the DL blazing, no rehab required.
Since June 24, 2006, he’s played 185 games and hit .350 with 58 doubles, 48 homers, 153 RBIs, a .434 OBP and .655 slugging percentage.
In 92 road games in that stretch, Jones hit .370 (not a typo) with 33 doubles, 25 homers, 77 RBIs, a .442 OBP and a .690 slugging percentage — a 1.132 OPS.
My Morning Jacket: I know we’ve raved about the Kentucky band My Morning Jacket in the past, but I just have to reiterate, since I’m going through a second wave of can’t-take-it-out-of-my-CD-player with their live album, Okonokos.
The thing came out a year ago, but I go back to it and it sounds as fresh and incredible every time I put it on.
Seriously, if you guys want to hear one of the best live bands and best straight-ahead, bluesy, rock albums of the past, oh, century or so, get this double-disc. It’s what “jam bands” should be, but almost none are. Don’t believe me? Download a couple of songs on it. Try these three from the first disc: songs Nos. 7-9, “The Way That He Sings,” “What A Wonderful Man” and “Off The Record.”
Now, a great singer-songwriter will take us out:
”NO MORE BUFFALO” by James McMurtry
I guess we knew the cards were stacked
started out the best of friends
and we beat that highway ‘till it quit beating back
it didn’t mean much in the end some you win, some you lose
some you throw away
we headed South across those Colorado plains
just as empty as the day we looked around at all we saw
remembered all we’d hoped to see
looking out through the bugs on the windshield
somebody said to me
no more buffalo
blue skies or open road
no more rodeo
no more noise
take this Cadillac
park it out in back
mama’s calling
put away the toys
don’t chase that carrot
‘till it makes you sick
what do you think you’re gonna prove
just let it dangle
‘till it falls off that stick
that’s when you make your move
don’t go chasing after shooting stars
trying to make yourself a name
you could joust at the windmills
with that old Fender guitar
you’d probably do about the same
no more buffalo
blue skies or open road
no more rodeo
no more noise
take this Cadillac
park it out in back
mama’s calling
put away the toys
I never thought they’d ever doubt my words
I guess they were just too tired to care
I’d point to the horizon
to the dust of the herds
still hovering in the air
somebody said it ain’t any such
man you wish so hard you’re scaring me
and those are combines kicking up that dust
but I guess you can see what you want to see
you can keep on chasing what used to be there
top that rise and face the pain
but man they were here
they were here I swear
not just these bleaching bones
stretching across the plain
no more buffalo
blue skies or open road
no more rodeo
no more noise
take this Cadillac
park it out in back
mama’s calling
put away the toys
hey broke into your car last night,
took the stereo
No seen Elvis in a year or two
Comments
By chuckw/deadjournalist
November 9, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this
regarding the options in center, what about the center fielder from japan that is an unrestricted free agent this year? what little i’ve read about him indicates that he has a mark grace-type approach at the plate and can play all three outfield positions although he is best suited for the corners. while we all like matt diaz, you’d have to think he’d be a good option to move to left if and when one of the young prospects are ready. his asking price might be too high, but i was just curious if his name had come up.
By geauxbraves2000
November 9, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this
I just saw who won the silver slugger awards, notably David Wright at 3rd base, and now I know why he won the gold glove. Quite a system, ain’t it?
Geaux Braves!!
By brent a.
November 9, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this
Have fun in Phoenix. Make sure you find out for sure whether or not Schafer can hit lefties ;).
By MikeS
November 9, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this
I knew I’d post on the old blog just as a new one was being posted…oh well. Maybe I should have washed my car more often these last couple of dry months too…
DOB, I like Figgins and Winn the most from that list, but both probably will come at too high of a price unfortunately (in players for Chone and dollars for Randy). We’ll see. Since I doubt anyone caught it at the tail end of the last blog, here’s that post again:
Steamboat, Don’t forget about having Tex for a whole year. His power numbers in a full year practically make up for Andruw and Edgar’s power numbers combined. And by adding Glavine there’s way more depth at the back of the rotation. Seriously, between James, Hampton, Reyes, Jurrjens we should have NO problems getting above average production out of the 4-5 spots; which we all know killed us last year (not to mention having Bennett, Carlyle, Cormier etc. as even more backup options to them).
And as I’ve said many times…The Office is the best show on tv (at least until The Wire starts back up in January). Even during one of their slower episodes like last night’s, there are still always enough one-liners, awkward moments, and amazing cast interactions to keep you wanting more. It’s a shame we only have one more episode for awhile due to the writer’s guild strike. But if any writers deserve something more it’s the geniuses that write for that show…
By The Piece
November 9, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this
The gold glove thing really makes me angry. Wright is a horse, who did play more games (159) than Chipper (126), but not significantly more than Feliz (143), or even Garrett Atkins (who played in 154, and still had a higher fielding % than Wright .963 to .954) What were the final tallies then? Was it even close? I haven’t read anything that told how close Chipper came.
By JohnBama
November 9, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this
Again the numbers go to show that Chipper is really not appreciated even though many in the country call him over rated. Above average defender and as good as it gets with the stick in his hands.
By Big braves fan
November 9, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this
That Mets Rule guy gave us a beat down on the last blog. But hes got a point. Our rotation is old and not good. We dont’ have a CF. Chipper is going to fall apart. McCan is fat and overated. We have scrubs in the OF and infield. But the Mets have studs and MVP candidates up and down the line up.Hope we can get lucky and get the Wild Card. Go Braves!
By Braveheart
November 9, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this
those be fighting words by chipper about wright.
By Big braves fan
November 9, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this
We should quit whining Wright is the best 3B in all of baseball and hes got range, if you want to see an older statue than Chipper you have to go to Greece.
By David O'Brien
November 9, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this
Braveheart, I believe you’re correct. Or right. Or Wright, I guess. Oh, nevermind…
LES from British Columbia, thanks for the great Johnny Cash articles from the paper up there. I just went into the office today for first time in weeks, and got your letter. Very nice. Thanks again.
By The Piece
November 9, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this
The gold glove thing really makes me angry. Wright is a horse, who did play more games (159) than Chipper (126), but not significantly more than Feliz (143), or even Garrett Atkins (who played in 154, and still had a higher fielding % than Wright .963 to .954) What were the final tallies then? Was it even close? I haven’t read anything that told how close Chipper came.
By Lyn
November 9, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
MikeS…I agree on Figgins & Winn as options. I guess it all boils down to the asking price on each of course. If the price is too high for a stop-gap centerfielder, I could see our hand being forced into starting Lillibridge in 2008. Worse things could happen.
By ernesto
November 9, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this
It would be nice to see us give a kid a shot I think - Blanco, Lillibridge, somebody within.
Lofton would probably produce similar good numbers to last year, around .296, and around 140 hits in 150 games, over 20 steals, but who knows maybe we could do better with one of our kids. If not, there would be time at the break to make a move, and the offense would probably be alright on 7 cylinders - it was last year.
By Braves Fan 79
November 9, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this
BIg Braves Fan: what!?? So the Braves are Old but the Mets arent!?? Am i missing something!??
By Tomas
November 9, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this
Really Chone Figins, I agree he would be a perfect fit, also Coco Crisp. De Jesus is not worth it, and Winn is to expensive. But Freel is also a good option, he plays really hard, runs like hell, and can play Center field. He has a carrer average 270, and his best season came in 2004 where he hit 277 in 142 games with the reds. Another opcion could be Carl Crawford who is one of the best outfielders in the game. He can play CF, he runs really, really well, hits for average, and has a good arm. But Tampa will ask a lot of prospects.
For me the best options are: Carl Crawford, Chone Figins, and Coco Crisp. Either one of them is fine with me.
By Braveheart
November 9, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this
Here’s my top 5 list of best third baseman of all time:
Mike Schmidt
Eddie Mathews
Chipper Jones
George Brett
Home Run Baker
By Lyn
November 9, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this
On paper, Lofton might not be a terrible option but if my memory serves me correct, he was NOT a team player when he was with us the last go around. Who knows, maybe he’s finally grown up. I’m not sure I’d want to take the chance.
By OrlandoFan
November 9, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this
David Wright won the Gold Glove for the same reason a lot of players win them: the highlight reels on SportsCenter. Certainly never hurt Andruw. Powerful lobbying device. Wright made some great, great plays. But the Gold Glove always seemed to be for steady excellence.
By Braveheart
November 9, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this
big braves fan is really drool.
By geauxbraves2000
November 9, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this
Here’s my top 5 3rd baseman:
Warren Spahn
Phil Niekro
Bob Gibson
Cy Young
Greg Maddux
Oh, oops, sorry, those are pitchers. Never mind.
Geaux Braves!!
By BravesFanInRockies
November 9, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this
Oh, no, Tomas said the “C” word. …
By BravesFanInRockies
November 9, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this
Lyn,
Yeah, Lofton wasn’t popular w/the Braves last time around, but he seems to wind up in the postseason a lot. Maybe he’s a Grade A jerk, but his teams sure win.
By Summerteeth
November 9, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this
I concur on MMJ and I would add another song to that…One Big Holiday…the 1 minute lead in builds it up really well.
By cmk
November 9, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this
Wright didn’t deserve the Gold Glove, but he probably has the best range of any third baseman in baseball. Where he gets into trouble is the throw to first. Might be a candidate to move over to first when Delgado is gone, or even second.
By joe
November 9, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this
i hate the braves, and i HATE chipper jones for precisely this reason…he must have the biggest hairiest v agina ever…first it’s the braves schedule, then its not getting the calls for his pitchers, now its wright….he is the biggest p ussy in the league
By Billy Walsh
November 9, 2007 6:03 PM | Link to this
I cant believe it has come to this. Watching t.v. and a commercial comes on. Nissan has reached out to the Clash to sell Muranos. Of all the songs they could have chose, they went with Pressure Drop. Which is off one of the Clash’s best and not so known albums (in my opinion)Super Black Market Clash. Mr. Strummer must be rolling over in his grave. Hey Braveheart you cant exclude Brooks Robinson, who should be number 1 on that list.
By Matt
November 9, 2007 6:09 PM | Link to this
Joe, if you hate the Braves so much, why are you on a Braves blog — oh wait, I know, it’s because you’re a LOSER!!!!
By Braveheart
November 9, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this
billy walsh i think brooks is probably the best fielder from what everyone has ever told me but as a complete package I don’t think offensively he can match what brett, schmidt, chipper, eddie, baker or even boggs could do at all.
By Ripme
November 9, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this
DOB- COCO lost his job to Ellsbury in the play-offs, while he was nursing a sore knee. Per Francona. Coco played in more games (145) than all the players on Red Sox team except three also more than everyone on Braves team except three. He had 526 ab 1 error ( should have won Gold Glove Per Francona.) 408 PO in 1216 innings. Better than A JONES. Pretty damn good! Just needs to get AB up.
By Bobby
November 9, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this
DOB-Any idea/guess what it would take to land Figgins? I assume Angels focus currently is on M.Cabrera (FLA), maybe Figgins deal to ATL will get attention afterwards.
What about Gathright in KC?
Also, have seen Lofton mentioned here but have not seen your opinion.
By Bob
November 9, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this
Joe,
Get over it and get over your hate. Chipper was ASKED by a reporter about the inter league schedule. Chipper said it was not balanced and unfair that the Mets had to play the Yanks 6 times and the Braves had to play the Red Sox 6 times while the Phillies and Marlins don’t play that caliber of teams. Uh, by the way, how much did the Phillies beat the Mets and Braves by? He was asked the question and he answered it.
Ditto on the Gold Glove. Obviously Dave asked him about it. People in New York can’t believe it either. WFAN has been flooded with calls from Mets and Yankee fans expressing shock over the selection. Chipper answered the question; he did not call up a news service and complain that Wright got the award.
You need to see a doctor about your hatred of the Braves. It is affecting your ability to reason.
By chuckw/deadjournalist
November 9, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this
the cf i was referencing above was kosuke f*******
By True Braves Fan
November 9, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this
CHIPPER WUZ ROBBED….TWICE. DAVID WRIGHT..UGH!!!!!
By N8
November 9, 2007 6:22 PM | Link to this
DOB
So based on you “numbers” comparison between Chipper and Wright, Chipper got screwed AGAIN today, with Wright being awarded the Silver Slugger.
I’m beginning to think that there IS something to all the hype that is referred to as the “East Coast Bias”. (I really don’t believe that, but…..)
What a crock.
I’ll also assume that Tex got screwed by switching leagues, huh?
Too bad. Then again, he wasn’t gonna beat out Fielder, I guess.
By Champ
November 9, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this
You’re an intelligent man, Joe, one of the brightest.
I’d like to see how you fare in the Major Leagues, highly doubt you’ll be near the leader or player Chipper Jones is…
By Matt what?
November 9, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this
are you saying everyone on Braves blog is a loser? I hope not.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)
November 9, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this
The other Cf option that the Angels have is Reggie Willits , although , I prefer Chone Figgins. Theo Epstein is off his rocker if he thinks that Coco Crisp is worth more more than one or two minor league prospects. Supposedly the Braves are shopping for a backup SS. Chone Figgins or Willits and Maicer Izturis for Chuck James ? it could happen if Glavine and Hampton are back and Alex Rodriguez ends up an Angel. But , thats a lot of IF’s and I’m not thrilled about the idea of trading pitching. Willits hit .293 with an OBP of .393 , he , like Figgins is a switch hitter who can hit in the lead off role. His 27 stolen bases scream speed merchant on the basepaths , but can he play defense in CF as well as he has played in LF and RF ? He is strictly a slap hitter with absolutely no power. Willits is one of those blue collar , get your uniform dirty kind of guys in the mold of Lenny Dykstra. Willits in four minor league seasons stole 129 bases with 241 walks / 292 strikeouts and an OBP of .397 while hitting .301
By Calculator
November 9, 2007 6:27 PM | Link to this
I was very disturbed to find out the Not Right won a Gold Glove instead of Chipper. Chipper averaged one error per 33.4 defensive outs, Not Right averaged one error per 20.5 outs.
And what do you mean McCann is fat and overrated?!
By ray
November 9, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this
whhy don’t the braves trade for carl crawford? he’s a good centerfielder. the twins are going to trade santana, so we should get him for c.james and mike hampton. and also, we just traded renteria, so we should put ARod at shortstop, because a lot of people don’t know this, but he used to play shortstop.
By McFann
November 9, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this
McCann (spelled with TWO n’s, BTW) is not overrated you ingoramoose!!!! Where did you come up with that anyway?! You must’ve had your head underwater thoughout his whole career!! I can’t believe you could say something so dumb!! (He’s not “fat” either, dodo!)
By Ripme
November 9, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this
SI.COM said Lofton would be Braves cf for 3 million. Also read somewhere that Royce Clayton would be Braves back up SS??? Now who will be back up catcher?
By Greg
November 9, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this
I think the Braves will ultimately have to look outside the Crisp-DeJesus box. I have to wonder why Gregor Blanco is getting no love. And an affordable stop-gap might be Jeremy Reed of the Seattle system. He was once an A prospect, but got hurt.
Heck, if we could trade HoRamirez for Soriano, I bet we could get Reed for Keith Lockhart.
By N8
November 9, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this
Big braves fan
“if you want to see an older statue than Chipper you have to go to Greece.”
First of all, NOBODY, and I mean NOBODY makes the barehanded play on bunts better than Chipper.
2nd, his defense is BETTER than it was in his so-called prime.
3rd, half the time he has TOO MUCH range. He often knocks balls down to his left, that the shortstop could’ve made a play on. Hell, more often than NOT he makes that play too.
4th, he may not have the cannon that guys like Rolen have/had. But find me a guy that CONSISTENTLY throws more accurate throws across the diamond.
I can live with somebody saying that Cabrera is a bigger threat on offense over Chipper, but not Wright (yet). I can live with somebody like Rolen (when healthy) being perceived as better defensively, but not Wright (yet).
Though to just look at errors, when judging a fielder, is misguided at best. Maybe Wright makes a throwing error on a ball that NOBODY else gets too. Maybe not.
I’ll go on record as saying that Chipper deserved the Silver Slugger award more than the GG, based purely on the numbers DOB posted earlier. Sure Wright had more steals, but last time I checked SB’s had NOTHING to do with “slugging”, and considering Chipper played in 24 less games……well, you do the math Mets fans.
But to call Chipper a “statue” is just plain ignorant, IMO.
Ridiculous is more like it.
By Ripme
November 9, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this
DESMOND CHONE FIGGINS WOULD BE ANOTHER GEORGIA BOY FROM LEARY, GA. sorry about caps just looked up and noticed. Coach your blog sounds good.
By bruce
November 9, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this
Dave, I just read the Choptalk interview of Mark Teixeira posted on Braves MLB site. I did not realize that he did not move to Atlanta. Tex says they are staying in their home in Westlake Texas near Arlington for the foreseeable future, loving where they live and with two little ones, its too crazy to be moving. How much of that do you think is related to having only one more year on his current contract, so moving to Atlanta for one year doesn’t make sense until he signs his next contract.
By Ripme
November 9, 2007 6:54 PM | Link to this
Just look at % of games won when Chipper plays and % when he’s out of line up. *Chipper is # 1 * should have won GG.
By N8
November 9, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this
DOB
This question may have been asked numerous times. Maybe it hasn’t.
Keeping in mind that he was not a welcome “guy” in the clubhouse in 1997, Lofton seems like an absolutely PERFECT “stopgap” CF. Especially if Schafer is gonna be starting in 2009 (or sooner) as you suspected.
We could have Lofton start for the first half of the year, and when he wears down, or becomes ineffective, call up the kid and BAM! Lofton is a perfect bench guy.
I looked on si.com for the article that said he’d come to Atlanta for 3 million, (that another poster referred to), but I couldn’t find it. (That would be a helluva deal, considering we have kids on the way, IMO).
So my question. In reality, based on what you know (I believe you were still covering the Marlins in 97, right? - or should I say Wright?), would Bobby be receptive to having his presence in the clubhouse? More importantly, would Lofton even consider it, with how ugly (I remember public snipping), his marriage with the Braves ended?
Just curious. It seems to make too much sense to me, if he truely will be that cheap (if one can consider 3 million “cheap”).
By Billy Walsh
November 9, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this
Braveheart, Brooks wasnt great offensively…however his defense made him a legend. That would be like comprising a list of the best shortstops of all time and leaving Ozzie Smith off it. I would also leave Chipper off the list. Dont know too much about Baker (considering he played over 100 years ago).
By Efrim
November 9, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this
Kenny Lofton can’t be an option for the Braves. Doesn’t Cox and him have issues? If not, for 3 million, I guess. He had 51/58 K/BB ratio which is solid. I think he had a 750 OPS.
By chipdip
November 9, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this
Chipper got robbed…..Coco Crisp friggin’blows!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By David-ATL14
November 9, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this
My guesses would center more on Willits,Duffy,or Gathwright. True stopgap measure. Low acquistion cost and low salaries to boot.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
November 9, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this
Figgins would be great here but I really think the Braves would have to give up a lot. I don’t think Lillibridge would be somebody the Angels ask for simply because they have plenty of great infield prospects but I could definitely see the likes Jo Jo Reyes and either Schafer or Hernandez being asked for. That seems like a bit much too me. I wouldn’t be oppossed to the Braves offering Kelly Johnson and Reyes. The Angles could use Johnson at 2B and move Howie Kendrick to 3B if they don’t get Arod. While I wouldn’t want to see Reyes gone, I think the rotation would be fine with Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, Jurries, and James/Bennett/or another starter.
By ND
November 9, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this
Doesn’t make me as mad as Nomo winning ROY over Chipper.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
November 9, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this
Okay, nobody shoot me. I am just throwing this out there. We all know the probablility of the Braves resigning Tex is slim with the likes of the Mets, Yankees, Angels, and Mariners all being in the market for a marquee 1B. What if the Braves offered Tex to the Angles for Figgins, Joe Saunders, and Casey Kotchman with maybe a prospect throw in?
By Braveheart
November 9, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this
Billy Walsh, my list of third baseman (probably too offensive oriented) is because of this:
Schmidt had an OPS+ of 147,
Mathews has an OPS+ of 143,
Chipper has an OPS+ of 143,
Brett has an OPS+ of 135,
Home Run Baker has an OPS+ of 135,
Wade Boggs has an OPS+ of 130,
Jimmy COllins has an OPS+ of 113,
George Kell has an OPS+ of 111,
Freddie Lindstrom had an OPS+ of 109,
Pie Traynor had an OPS+ of 107,
Brooks Robinson had an OPS+ of 104.
All of those except Chipper are the only 10 third baseman in the HOF. Chipper stands hands and shoulders above all except Schmidt and Eddie.
Just looking at those OPS+ numbers, Brooks was only 4% better than the average MLB hitter during his career. Schmidt was 47% better, Chipper is 43% better, Eddie was 43% better, Brett and Home Run Baker were 35% better, and Boggs was 30% better.
Schmidt, Chipper, Eddie, Boggs, and Home Run Baker are clearly the three best third baseman of all time.
In fact, Brooks Robinson is the worst hitting third baseman in the HOF. I understand he is without question the best defensive third baseman of all time but his defense could not have been so good to make up the 40 percentage points difference between Chipper, Schmidt, Eddie and Brooks as compared to the offensive competition at the time they played.
There are only 10 HOF third baseman all time and Chipper’s offensive numbers put him right up there with the top 3 all time. He can’t be considered with Eddie and Schmidt until he get 500 dingers.
Ron Santo had an OPS+ of 125 and probably should be in the Hall as well since he is one the top ten third baseman of all time.
I think people really need to start realizing that Schmidt, Eddie, and Chipper are the Holy Trinity for Third Baseman all time. People just seem really reluctant to do that just like they are reluctant to put him in all star games or give him gold gloves and silver sluggers.
By Big braves fan
November 9, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this
Waaaaah. Chippers’ not as good as Wright and Davids got the hardware to provde it. Waaaaaaah!!!!!!!
By N8
November 9, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this
ND
“Doesn’t make me as mad as Nomo winning ROY over Chipper.”
I hear ya. But, similar to the argument of whether pitchers should be included in the MVP voting, maybe there should be a rookie PITCHER of the year, and a rookie PLAYER of the year. Just like the NFL giving out an Offensive & Defensive Rookie of the year.
I’ve always felt that if they are going to allow pitchers in the MVP discussion and STILL give out a Cy Young award for the pitchers, there should be an “offensive player of the year” award given as well.
Otherwise, leave the pitchers out of the MVP mix. Though I completely understand how a pitcher (starter or reliever) can be “valuable” to his team.
Take it for what it’s worth.
By Mets Rule You Drool
November 9, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this
McCans not fat? Dude, get your tv fixed. Fat and overated is no way to go through life son. Hahahahahaha!!!!!!!!!
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
November 9, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this
DOB, do you see any way the Braves can get a CF without having to give up a really good player or prospect. I just don’t see how it is going to happen. Lillibridge, K. Johnson, Reyes, Schafer, and Diaz are going to have to be part of the trade for anything to happen. Would the Braves consider trading Tex if they can get a good 1B in return along with a CF and a starting pitcher or reliever?
I threw the Angels out there. What about a team like the Giants? The Braves could ask for Lowry, Rajah Davis or Fred Lewis and then maybe try to acquire somebody like Kevin Millar or even sign a Tony Clark.
By N8
November 9, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this
Robert (Justice Is The Best)
You aren’t gonna hear (read) me calling you crazy. I’m not sure if that’s THE deal to be had, if we decide to trade Tex, but I’m NOT opposed to it (trading Tex that is).
I know DOB has stated MANY times, that the Braves have no interest in trading Tex (which I believe WILL become a reality at the deadline if we’re not in position to contend & he has rejected a longterm deal).
But, having said that…
I think our chances of Tex signing a deal before this season starts (or 2009 for that matter), are SLIM TO NONE. Especially after reading that he didn’t even move to Atlanta after the deal.
Let it be noted that if Tex “walks” we will have given up quite a bit for a 1.5 year rental. Add to the fact that Andruw’s offensive numbers were SO OFFENSIVE that we’re gonna get screwed out of a better draft pick due to him being classified as a Class B free agent instead of a Class A.
It’s NOT gonna happen, for the same reasons that Andruw was not traded before he became a 10/5 guy (why trade a guy that is a big part of “hanging in” the race).
But if I’m Frank Wren, I offer him a VERY lucrative deal this winter. For one, he IS a guy you can build a team around, so he’s worth it, and if Wren expects him to sign without testing the waters, it needs to be what is conceived as “fair market value” based on estimates of next off-season, to even be considered.
If he refuses the offer, I let it be known to the world that he’s on the table.
With our “budget”, and what we gave up for him, simply acquiring a draft pick for him after 2008, is purely unacceptable, IMO.
Like I said. It’s not gonna happen, but it should if he doesn’t sign an extension.
By ChrisfromSacramento
November 9, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this
What a shame! What a joke! David Wright is a fine player, but he needs to play like that for a decade to even be in the same breath as Chipper. Wrights fielding has been suspect from the first day he has been playing. The stats dont lie. No matter if it is either at the plate or in the field CHIPPER IS BETTER. Chipper should have won the Gold Glove. Hell if the Braves would have won the Division Chipper would have had MVP consideration. Chipper is a HOF’er. Wright is nothing but New York bias.
By Peter
November 9, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this
At first glance Wright winning the Gold Glove seems shocking, but Wright’s range is as good as anyone’s. Anyone who follows the new math in baseball (ie Bill James, sabermatics) knows that fielding percentage is a crock of crap. Yes batting average means some, but please don’t tell me that Ramierez and Chipper are better fielders than Wright. A good case can be made for Feliz, but the guy doesn’t even have decent hitting stats for a shortstop.
By JD
November 9, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this
DOB, do you know if they put a lot of faith in the AFL stats or are they like spring training in that the pitchers are trying to learn something new or are approaching at bats differently? Thanks…and have fun.
Not a bad year to be a Jayhawk, huh!
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
November 9, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this
Well, I think its time to be real about things. Tex isn’t signing an extension. He will test the free agent market. If the Arod has shown us nothing it has shown us that Boras won’t listen to extensions if he thinks he can get a king’s ransom and with Tex he will. The Mets, Yankees, and Giants will all be in desperate need of a 1B. Unless the Braves are prepared to offer Tex a minimum of $22 mil a year I don’t think there is any chance he will sign an extension.
Now, I think it could be in the Braves best interest if Mike Lowell doesn’t sign with the Red Sox. This is what I mean. If he doesn’t sign, that means the Red Sox will need to look at getting a 3B. They have already mentioned moving Youklis back to 3B. If they do that, they could be interested in Tex who would come cheaper than Arod even with his upcoming “payday”. Of course, the issue would be would the Sox be willing to give up a guy like Lester along with Crisp and maybe DelCarmen. That deal would free up a good $8 mil or so which would allow the Braves to pursue a stopgap 1B and probably have some left over.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)
November 9, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this
Robert(JIB) , the Braves traded five prospects for Teixeira , then you think they would trade Teixeira for a group of three or four players. That defeats the whole purpose of the first trade. My opinion on the gold glove issue , Ryan Zimmerman got robbed , period. He led all N.L. third baseman in games played (161) , innings (1431.2) , total chances (511) , put outs (140) , assists (348) , double plays (39) and Range factor (3.07). Out of the NINE defensive categories , Zimmerman was first in seven of them. That’s called a FREAKING NO-BRAINER. For all the managers and coaches who voted for David Wright , you should all be tarred and feathered.
By Braveheart
November 9, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this
To me, if Brooks Robinson is in the HOF, Graig Nettles deserves the Hall as well.
Wasn’t Clete Boyer perhaps a better fielding third baseman than Brooks? His range factor stats seem to indicate that. His brother Ken should maybe be in the Hall as well. But Clete looks like he was too poor of a hitter to make the Hall.
Hawks & Celts are in a battle right now. Hawks getting sloppy. Garnett is a monstrous freak. 15 points 12 rebounds, 2 blocks and many other altered shots and we are not even at the half yet.
G’nite Paladin.
By McFann
November 9, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this
McCann is a CATCHER, dimwitt!! Catchers are usually a little chubby. Also, you people need to learn how to spell his name: M-C-C-A-N-N!!! Put some commas and apostrphies in your writing, too, would ya? Another thing—I said it once, and I’ll say it again—he’s NOT overrated!! If you think he is, what must you think of someone like A-Rod? I don’t even know why I bother reading this stuff by you CRAZY people!! Just tell me why he’s overrated!! Just give me ONE reason!!!
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
November 9, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this
Coach, I understand what you are saying but the fact is the Braves’ aren’t going to resign Tex so they should get something for him. They believed he was going to be enough to get them over the hump last year and he was not. I’m not necessarily advocating trading Tex but its definitely something to give thought to if the Braves can get a good bounty like the one I suggested from the Angels. I think the Yankees would be a good fit if they were willing to give up both Cabrerra and either Hughes or Kennedy. But, I don’t think they are going to do that. They believe they can stick out next year and wait to land Tex in ‘08.
But, the fact is until Arod signs and the situations with Posada and Rivera get solved I don’t think a whole lot is going to take place.
For instance, the Yanks aren’t going to be willing to make that deal but if they don’t keep Posada then all of a sudden their position could change and they might listen to a deal that involves Hughes or Kennedy. Imagine that Yankee lineup without Arod and Posada and no viable bat to replace them. You don’t think they would listen to a deal then?
By Mets Rule You Drool
November 9, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this
McFat is Overated because he doesnt hit for average, his defense sucks, he cant throw out anyone and there are a lot of better catchers.
Unless you mean he’s not overweighted…but he is that too.
Does that help you sweetheart?
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
November 9, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this
Yeah, Mets Drool, that Paul LoDuca is the picture of fitness isn’t he?
By TennesseePaul
November 9, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this
there should be an “offensive player of the year” award given as well.
I believe this award is called the Hank Aaron award.
By David
November 9, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this
I would love to see Chone Figgins in center. He’s a leadoff hitter who will generate some excitement at the top of the order. If it were me, I would offer Chuck James and maybe Kelly Johnson. The reason being is that Brandon Jones may be ready to man left field. If not, Matt Diaz can fill in admirably. In an ideal world, I would put Martin Prado at second, Kelly Johnson in center and go after a couple strong starters. I am not so sure that Tom Glavine is the answer. I liken him to Chuck James at this point in his career. I am interested to see when the Braves begin to phase in their minor league talent ie Shafer, Lillibridge, Heyward, Rohrbough, etc.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)
November 9, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this
Robert(JIB) , the Braves are going to get something for Teixeira , the 2008 season. Whether or not he was worth the five players who were traded will be determined on the success or failure of the Braves in the 2008 post-season. I do agree with you that the Braves don’t have a snowball’s chance in hell of resigning him after next season.
By Braveheart
November 9, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this
the braves are 165-132 when mccann starts the last 3 years since his call up. 58-71 when he does not start since he was called up on june 10, 2005. yep, he is so freaking overrated.
the braves ranked #2 in OPS from catchers last season in the NL. the braves had the most homers from catchers last season, the most doubles, the most RBIs, the most total bases, the most hits, the highest SLG from catchers last season, the second highest AVG from catchers last season.
in 2006, the braves had the highest avg for catchers, the second highest OBP, the highest SLG, the highest OPS, second most runs, third most hits, 2nd most doubles, third most homers, 2nd most total bases, THE MOSt RBIS
AND if I bothered to research it, I am pretty sure the Braves would probably lead in almost all NL categories for catchers in the last two seasons combined.
Oh yeah McCann is SOOOOOO overrated.
mccann is TOO FAT even for a catcher but he is not overrated at all. i think the overweight thing though is being partially caused by his bum ankles. hard to get your cardio in when it hurts like hell to run. he needs to mix in a few salads though if he wants to do a better job running the bases and blocking passed balls and wild pitches next season.
jerry crasnick article on espn.com about frank wren
By McFann
November 9, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this
MCCANN DOESN’T HIT FOR AVERAGE?!! Where were you in ‘06, bozoe? And don’t use that fowl language about his defense!! It might intrest you to no, dude, that he is one of the nicest guys the Braves have, and being humlbe is a heck of a lot more important than throwing guys out stealing or hittin’ home runs!! BTW, there might be a couple better catchers, but I think B-Mac did fairly good for someone who can barely see, you freak!! [And thanks to Robert (Justice Is The Best) for his comment!]
By David O'Brien
November 9, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this
David-ATL14, Willits? You really want your stopgap CF to be a guy who slugged .344 with 83 strikeouts and zero homers and 34 RBIs in 430 at-bats last season?
I mean, I know it’s a high average and OBP, but geez, that’s a black hole in center in terms of homers and RBIs.
By Mets Rule You Drool
November 9, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this
Yeah, whatever bagadoosh, how about when McFat stoled a spot on last years AllStar team and EVEN he said he didnt belong there.
Thats overated. Honest. But overated.
By McFann
November 9, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this
Thank you, Bravesheart!! (But I still don’t think he’s that fat!)
By Steve C
November 9, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Exactly what “Jam Bands” have you consistently listened to…to say that the band from Kentucky, and I am assuming you are intimating this, so my apologies…but, are they better than the Allman Brothers…Widespread Panic…Phish…hell, Sector Nine, Robert Randolph, Moe…all seem better
By Mets Rule You Drool
November 9, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this
Even though McFat is overated he does represent maybe the only position where the Brokes have and Advantage over the Amazins - considering we have no one there right now. Hahahaha!!!!!
But seriously the Amazin will probably bring back Castro and probably make a strong bid for Yorvit Torrealba, if not theyll bring back LoD. Either way, I think with Castro and either of those guys the scale tips teh scale in the Mets favor. But thats’ just my opionion.
Almost everywhere else its no competition.
But its’ not just the Mets, the Phillies are better than you at at least 5, maybe 6, positions, thats why you will finish 3rd again. If your people were smart theyd start rebuilding with youth and start of 5 or 6 year plan. You should be sellers right now not buyers. You may not want to hear that, but its true.
By webhead
November 9, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this
Sorry but Bones is funnier than the Office and it’s a drama. Chipper was robbed twice this week . It stinks but New York players always gets the extra votes
By Billy Walsh
November 9, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this
Brooks Robinson:
Those are hall of fame credentials.
By jimmy
November 9, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this
Dave, What do you think about Dontrell Willis? Do you think that he is probably there best chance to get a shutdown type pitcher for atleast four yrs. Dontrell,Hudson,Hampton,Smoltz and Glavine. For 2008 is there a better leftie righty combo? DOB is the man. go braves
By Billy Walsh
November 9, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this
On Tex: Given the fact that the Yanks lost a ton of offense with Arod’s departure, what type of package would the Yanks offer to the Braves. If (considering Cashman would part with one of the big 3)the Yanks offered Kennedy, Cabera, and Cano for Tex…would you do it? A lot of callers on WFAN here in the northeast are under the assumption that Tex is available.
By N8
November 9, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this
Drool, while based on the last two season’s results, one could conclude that we were better off “selling” than buying.
But…
1) Who would we sell?
Chipper? Nope. Can’t do it (and shouldn’t)
Smoltz? Nope. Had our chance a couple of years ago, and didn’t. He TOO should retire a Brave.
Andruw? Oh….wait. We missed the boat on that one as well. Now we’ll get a draft pick for him.
Escobar? Nope. He’s young and part of if not THE future of our club.
KJ? Maybe. With all the middle infield depth we have in the system, it wouldn’t kill us to move him. But in all honesty, what would we get for him?
Diaz? (see KJ)
Francoeur? Nope. He’ll be a gold-glove RF for as long as AJ was in CF, not to mention compete for an MVP in the near future. He stays.
Chuck James? (see KJ)
Hampton? PULEEEEZ.
Soriano? Nope. Even teams that are rebuilding (or selling), need a reliable closer to finish games, so the youngsters learn how to win, and aren’t discouraged by a bullpen blowing games.
That brings us to Tex. If….BIG IF…. the Braves were to remotely think about selling, he is our ONLY chip we have that can bring significant return. In fact, I believe that if he were traded to a team that could throw a TON of money at him immediately for an extension (Red Sox, Yankees, Dodgers, Angels), we could damn near trade him and get enough in return and possibly NOT miss a beat. Of course 1B might be weakened in the process, but maybe the rotation (and another position) are strengthened. Please note, that his value will only RISE as the season progresses. With the way he performed down the stretch for us last year, a contending team would be silly not to go all out after him, should he become available.
I guess that Hudson could be in the same category as Tex.
So there you have it. A team that you claim should be “sellers”, doesn’t have anything to sell. Wonderful idea there, drool. :-)
Believe me. It’s been discussed at least 1000 times since last winter.
Which leaves us right where we’re at. A team that is STILL getting younger, and building for the future, all while signing Glavine, which coincidentally improves our chances of catching you guys and the Phillies and giving Chipper and Smoltz a couple more “shots” at winning.
Whether this team puts it all together to win the division, much less the World Series, is yet to be seen. And though you may be correct about us finishing third again (I don’t really see that happening, but who really knows? - I didn’t think the Mets would CHOKE down the stretch either), we aren’t going away, and we surely aren’t gonna be a team that rolls over and dies because the Mets or Phillies are “coming to town”.
It’ll be a 3-way race again next year. The team with the best health will prevail. Even IF you guys get A-Rod.
Period.
By Bobby
November 9, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this
DOB-Would you do Reyes for Figgins? Would the Angels? Would the Braves?
By Britt
November 9, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this
You know what, I am tired of all these lame Mets fans. I mean, the team with the highest payroll in the league and they blow a lead against not the likes of good teams but the Nationals and Marlins. If you weren’t so ignorant you would realize just how pathetic the Mets are. What’s the excuse for the collapse. All I got to say is 14 years straight, you diss it, but you guys couldn’t even do two years straight. Don’t hate, appreciate because yeah we didn’t make the playoffs either, but I could guarantee if we had that lead with the season winding down that would have never happen. Now sit back M-E-T-S fans and let that marinate, because the last time I checked you guys were on the outside looking in just like us.
By chrisklob
November 9, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this
jimmy, Dontrelle Willis hasn’t been a “shut down” pitcher since 2005. Check his stats and you’ll see.
By atl_fan
November 9, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this
DOB, have you heard anything about the Braves inquiring on Figgins, or are you just speculating? I remember him being mentioned last year in the LaRoche talks. I think he’d be a great fit as a leadoff hitter too.
Also, if the Braves are unable to re-sign Teixeira, maybe they could move Figgins to 2B and have Kelly move to 1st for his 3rd career position switch.(I think I heard some talk of moving Kelly to first before)
By TNRON
November 9, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this
Hey Drooler,it is going to be so funny when your guy Willie gets canned this year,probably around the allstar break.The Mets,the biggest chokedogs in team sports history will,look like what they were for the majority of the year….mediocre.And of course who will take the blame?Yeah WILLIE!!!Betcha Moises doesnt even play 81 games.What makes you think other GM’s are salivating to get that stiff Lastplace Millidge?Another tipical overated NY prospect.Remember Drooler,come July..I TOLD YOU SO!!!!
By N8
November 9, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this
Jimmy. I think the Braves might be able to come up with a better “leftie righty combo” with guys ALREADY on the roster taking Willis’ spot.
BOTH Chuck and Reyes have more “up-side” than Willis. His time has passed. He got burned up. He’s shot.
It’s too bad. He is a GREAT face for the league. Hard to ignore that smile he has on his face most of the time, and when he first came up, he was DOMINANT! But so was Prior and Wood. I don’t see anybody clamoring for us to get either of them.
2007 stats for Willis vs. Chuck:
Willis:
10-15 record in 35 starts, 205.1 IP (5.2 IP per start), an ERA of 5.17, a 1.597 WHIP…Yikes! With only 16 Quality Starts)
Chuck:
11-10 record in 30 starts, 161.1 IP (5.1 IP per start),an ERA of 4.24, a 1.376 WHIP (not much better….but better), With 11 Quality starts)
Chuck had Quality starts in 36 percent of his outings, compared to Willis achieving that goal in 45 percent of his.
However, Chuck had 3 other starts where he went into the 6th inning allowing 2 or less runs. Just missing a Quality start.
So while “taxing” on our bullpen (by not going deeper into games. He too kept us “in” games around 50 percent of the time.
6 times Dontrelle FAILED to get out of the 3rd inning. While Chuck only did that 3 times.
So while Dontrelle has the (misconceived) reputation as a “hutdown type pitcher”, he clearly ISN’T anymore.
In fact he had a considerably WORSE season than our very own Chuck James, who you didn’t even include in your “leftie righty” rotation. Which means you, like many others, are unimpressed with him.
Yet you want to replace him with a guy that is statistically inferior to him.
Why is that?
By N8
November 9, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this
atl_fan
Considering how poorly KJ moves to his right at 2B, I’m not so sure, I want him playing 1B. That would leave and awful BIG whole on the right side of the infield, don’t you think?
chrisklob
Your 10:08 post managed to “sum up” in one sentence, what I took 2000 words to do in detail a few minutes later.
Thanks a lot for making me look long winded……JERK!
(just kidding of course) :-)
By TNRON
November 9, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this
And also Drool,evidently Phillie is better at most positions than you guys too,after all THEY BEAT YOU.
By Mets Rule You Drool
November 9, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this
Whatever ENRON - We will s