Braves

By David-ATL14

December 18, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

First? Good blog an outstanding musical tasate DOB. Very solid list for 2007.

By phil niekro

December 18, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

knuckleball

By ppaddy123

December 18, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

FIRST? I doubt it……….

By Austin

December 18, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

DOB

Do you think Cox likes platoons because of the actual righty left matchup or getting more players involved on a consistent basis?

Austin

By doc

December 18, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

oh dear my wallet just took a hit and will be a bit lighter as i try to keep up with the dob sounds of 2007.

this blog is better than the rolling stone.

dob, the only risk with lopez is if bobby falls in love with what he might do instead of what he is still capable of doing. that may be too much of a temptation. however i like javy and hope he can really deliver in the clutch. it is just a new role for him and sometimes bobby’s wishful thinking can leave us a bit shorthanded.

By Hotspur

December 18, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

You never did listen to the Firewater album, did ya, DOB? :-)

Gotta put that on. The new Silverchair is pretty darn good too.

By Bryan

December 18, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

2-17 No order

Devendra Banhart - Smokey Rolls Down Thunder Canyon

Pharaohe Monch - Desire

Band of Horses - Cease to Begin

Arcade Fire - Neon Bible

Bettye LaVette - The Scene of the Crime

Ween - La Cucaracha

UGK - Underground Kingz

Tony Trischka - Double Banjo Bluegrass Spectacular

Rilo Kiley - Under The Blacklight

Talib Kweli - Ear Drum

Kanye West - Graduation

Wilco - Sky Blue Sky

Jay-Z - American Gangster

Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals - Lifeline

Eddie Vedder - Into the Wild

Spoon - Ga Ga Ga GaGa

The New Pornographers - Challengers

By TennesseePaul

December 18, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the new blog DOB.

That might raise the urgency level and force the Braves to pull the trigger
Might? It certainly would which would raise the price as well I’d imagine. Nothing like taking advantage of a team in need and if none of these AA or A ball players pans out we’ll need another vet to come in. But not a great one, that’d cost too much. And nothing long term, that could block all those AA and A ball players who didn’t pan out.

You didn’t even list Blaine Boyer in your pen. He’s a lefty right? He could work into the mix and leave Ring on the ropes. How about Resop as well?

I don’t think I purchased 25 albums this year so I wouldn’t have a top 25 of 2007. Neon Bible is a good one as is Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga. Probably my two favs of the year. I haven’t gotten into that new Modest Mouse album. I picked it up and it had some good cuts on it but it wasn’t as strong as I was hoping. Better than Wincing the Night Away, but not drastically better. Two different types of sounds though and I find Modest Mouse as a more agreeable sound than The Shins. The Shins tend to lean on celtic melodies a lot while incorporating words into the lyrics which should never be sung.

By David O'Brien

December 18, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

Gotta bolt, folks. Going to the office for a training class, then to the KU-Georgia Tech game tonight.

By Jonathan

December 18, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

D.O.B, I gotta give mucho props on your cd list. Truly stunning list. I suppose I am biased such that I purchased 90% of the discs listed. Kings of Leon’s new spinner is great. In Rainbows somehow keeps getting better. Boxer is my favorite disc in years, though, Alligator was as good or better. Braveswise, gotta wonder how much Lopez got left. Years are rarely kind to catchers. I hope we trade for a CF. Probably will not in spite of the “we will spend more this year” mantra. God, I wish we were not owned by a Corporation. I simply do not think Liberty will ever see the team as more than an asset or tax write off. Have enjoyed your posts and lyrics throughout. Glad you are a fan of Jay Farrar as well. J

By Braveheart

December 18, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Welcome back Javy Kournikova!

By 22oz

December 18, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

I bought a new truck (used) this year without a CD player, so i haven’t bought near the amount of CD’s that i have in years past. I also have XM, so its not terible. But that being said, here are a few that i have bought this year that i have enjoyed:

Foo Fighters: Echoes, Silence, Patience and Grace Gary Allan-Living Hard Sunny Sweeney-Heartbreakers Hall of Fame Zac Brown Band-The Foundation Chris Knight-Enough Rope

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 18, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

very solid list DOB, and one that i’ll be sure to take with me to the cd store after christmas. can’t disagree with you on the arcade fire being #1. just curious - do you listen to Queens of the Stone Age at all? they’re a bit harder than what i usually listen to, but their cd from this year is damn good (an opinion i’ve already stated on these blogs).

By 22oz

December 18, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

Blaine Boyer is right handed.

By ObiWanKobe

December 18, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

Here’s my Top 10, I need to work on the next 15 though…

1) Jesca Hoop - Kismet

2) Radiohead - In Rainbows

3)Travis - The Boy With No Name

4) Jens Lekman - Night Falls Over Kaortedala

5) M.I.A. - Kala

6) Arcade Fire - Neon Bible

7) Feist - The Reminder

8) Wilco - Sky Blue Sky

9) Eleni Mandell - Miracle of Five

10) Rilo Kiley - Under the Blacklight

By 3trees

December 18, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

I ain’t holding my breath for Javy. If he can still swing it, maybe a bench player, but…

Cool list, DOB. Glad to see Feist on there. And the surprise listing is James Blood Ulmer. I’ve not heard the record, but am a fan. One of Merle’s Pearls too, really great song. For me, his finest period.

Happy Holidays

By Bryan

December 18, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Yeah, i am with Tenn Paul … i don’t think i got 25 NEW cd’s … i almost threw in some old school music i have been listening too this year…

Mainly my props would go to the Traveling Wilburys - The Traveling Wilburys (vol, 1 and 2) and The Impressions - This Is My Country.

Im not very anxious about the OF position … mainly because it seems like we have the prospects who can play the defense we need … and the rest of the team can pick up the offense… We have positions who in the past might not have hit well (1st, 2nd, SS) manned with dudes who can RAKE (and rake in different ways, mind you).

After a few years of so little offense at 1st base (except when LALALAroche got hot) its nice to have that covered … if we are in the race 2/3rds of the way through and someone in the OF is not producing … it is going to be easier to find an OF bat than another position.

Though the fact that we have lost our CF is disconcerting …

Dave, Ween (you talked about them a few days ago) is not a band you can just jump into like a lot of todays bands are (i think because of the shear amount of music available … bands have to work hard to make sure their music is … approachable?) Unless they have made it (radiohead, arcade fire).

Ween takes a long time to get into … and then you are hooked for life … so weird … go get Chocolate and Cheese or the Mollusk … or their country album (recorded in Nashville with some of the best studio musicians around) 12 golden county greats… don’t let the weirdness fool you … they are musical geniuses. (and one of the best live rock shows today).

By TBraveFan

December 18, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Can’t say I can find absolutely anything wrong with this scenario and I think it’s a very wise move on Wren’s part. Javy has been preparing himself to return to the MLB since last year’s cut by the ROX…how can that be wrong in any way? He’ll bring back a whole lot of fans to the stands - it’s a shrewd move by Frank indeed…and I bet he’d make a great coach in the future(young players raved about Javy’s mentoring while with ‘other’ teams)…. Welcome Home Javy — just one more reason I can’t wait for 78 more days to hurry and pass!!!!!!

By David O'Brien

December 18, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

22oz, who said Boyer was anything but righty?

By BamaBrave

December 18, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

Gotta check out Boxer then…cool list…thanks DOB. Here’s hoping Radiohead stays together. Maybe they’d tour with Zep. I’d sell my house for tickets to that…

By Darren

December 18, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

I for one am rooting for Javy to make the team. Take HGH, or do whatever you have to do brother. We still love you.

By JCSmalls

December 18, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Steroids are not legal now so Javy is done!!! Clint Sammons from UGA will be our backup catcher.

By Thrillhouse44

December 18, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

“Welcome back Javy Kournikova!” - Braveheart

Salons throughout Atlanta cross their fingers that Javy has a great spring.

By JCSmalls

December 18, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Steroids are not legal now so Javy is done!!! Clint Sammons from UGA will be our backup catcher.

By TennesseePaul

December 18, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

DOB: That would be me. I mixed Boyer up with McBride and I have no idea why. Just fell apart there.

ObiWanKobe: Pumped on the Rilo Kiley pick. I forgot about that as well. That’d certainly be in my top 25 for this year, especially considering how few albums I’ve purchased. But it’s higher than Modest Mouse and the Shins.

ppdaddy123: TennesseePaul I just think the Braves have too much infield talent waiting to get their shots to waste the position on this guy. I know he’s played well in the past (did a fine job subbing for C. Jones in 2006) But, why block good, young talent with this guy? I can see where Yunel Escobar would block a position, but not Aybar.

Who’s Aybar blocking? All the young guys with talent I see in the farm appear to be guys that could benefit more with playing time than a bench role meaning they’d be down on the farm or starting up at the majors. With KJ and Yunel already in those spots and Aybar never going to be a starter, he’d make more sense as a bench player. Hopefully he’d raise his value more over the season and allow for a better trade in the future. But I don’t think he’s a “waste of a position”. He’s good. He has MLB experience. He handles the bat better than Omar. His only “fault” is he doesn’t play 8 positions. But Willie Harris at 3rd didn’t go over so well either and his asset was supposed to be the ability to play all the infield and the outfield. That Harris at 3B and Chipper at SS game pretty much tanked the season.

By 22oz

December 18, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul thought Boyer was a lefty.

By Charles

December 18, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

What is the possibility that Glavine had something to do with Javy’s return? Javy knows how to catch him and may be taking a Greg Maddux/Eddie Perez approach by being Glavine’s “personal catcher”. While I think McCann has better defensive and offensive skills as well as he is 15 years Javy’s junior, it seems like it is a possibility. What does anyone else think?

By TennesseePaul

December 18, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Here’s a token for yall:

With Joe Torre sporting that old gleam in his eye in Los Angeles, Troy Tulowitzki and Matt Holliday poised for a repeat in Colorado, and Jake Peavy and Greg Maddux quite comfortable as generational bookends in San Diego, the National League West has become a very unforgiving place to build a team.

“It’s like SEC football,” said Josh Byrnes, Arizona general manager. “It’s just a grind. It might not make your record too pretty, but to survive it is a real accomplishment.” —Jerry Crasnick

By Art

December 18, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Well if he can hit and that is the question. Why not let Javy play left field and then use rookies in center. He has the arm for left.

By Thrillhouse44

December 18, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Interesting theory, Charles. I would think after hearing Smoltz rave about McCann that Glavine would like to try B-Mac out himself. Who knows?

By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy

December 18, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

I see one glaring omission from DOB’s list: Jason Isbell

The jury’s still out on Shooter Jennings because I haven’t heard the new one yet, but I hear it’s quite good.

By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy

December 18, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

I see one glaring omission from DOB’s list: Jason Isbell

The jury’s still out on Shooter Jennings because I haven’t heard the new one yet, but I hear it’s quite good.

By Officer Mancuso

December 18, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

So is Neon Bible an homage to the novel of the same name by the late, great John Kennedy Toole, who more famously wrote A Confederacy of Dunces?

By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy

December 18, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

DOB, Would Cox ever actually use Lopez as a pinch hitter off the bench, being the back up catcher and all?

By Braveheart

December 18, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Salons throughout Atlanta cross their fingers that Javy has a great spring.

Thrillhouse Yeah, what’s the risk with Javy? If he makes the team, the Braves make 50,000 pink number 8 tee shirts and cover his salary.

By Frank

December 18, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

Hey Charles….remember back when we had Charlie O’Brien….he was Greg’s personal catcher too as well and before that…Damon Berryhill was Greg’s personal catcher.

IMHO…I’m glad they signed Javy to be the back-up catcher (or at least try out to be the back-up catcher). If not catcher…I don’t see why they can’t keep him for off-the-bench help late in games.

By DAP

December 18, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

so this is the team that the braves want to take on the league with? alright…can we go ahead and get started? i miss baseball, and since we have our team set, maybe MLB will agree to go ahead and start the season!

By DonCoburleone

December 18, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

DOB I see your point about Javy, but what if he does decent in spring training and we end up retaining him and he stinks in the regular season? Just seems like an old, tired name that didn’t need to be even brought up again in the Braves organization. I mean, is there any doubt that he used roids/HGH while he was with the Braves? I mean, a .680 slugging percentage and 43 home runs in 2003 and then just 4 years later he can’t even secure a backup spot on the Colorado Rockies??? Keep his cheating a$$ away from the organization, whether it is a minor league contract or free tickets to a game in June, just move on…

By Desperado Dave

December 18, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Are the Braves putting together their 2008 roster or planning for an Atlanta Braves Old Timers game. Glavine, Lopez. Who’s next? Biff Pocoroba?

By ssiscribe

December 18, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

Bringing back former Braves is nothing new for the organization. Kent Mercker comes to mind. So, too, does Al Pena, Terry Pendleton and Brian Jordan. Now, perhaps Javy Lopez, too, joins that list if he can make the ballclub.

But I don’t think you can put Glavine in that grouping at all. Dude won 13 games last year, made 23 quality starts and did what nobody else not named Smoltz and Hudson did over the course of the season: eat innings and give his team a chance to win on a consistent basis.

It’s one thing to give Javy a non-roster invite to camp. But you can’t put Glavine’s situation and Lopez’s situation together. Totally different set of circumstances; totally different expectations.

—30—

By ObiWanKobe

December 18, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul- The Rilo Kiley CD isn’t great, but it was pretty catchy & fun. I enjoyed it despite it’s lack of critical acclaim. It was just fun and isn’t that what music is supposed to be about? I really liked the Modest Mouse w / Johnny Marr. I was very disappointed in the Shin’s album.

By Ed Glennon

December 18, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

I think it was nice that the Braves gave Javi a chance. It would also be nice, as well as a good baseball move, to extend Chipper’s contract. The Braves are lucky that they have so many quality people playing for them. Sometimes you need to reward the loyalty even if it costs a little more money.

By Renegator

December 18, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

Art:

Did you seriously suggerst putting Javy in left?

Unbelievable…

By Bryan

December 18, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

NEW MUSIC UPDATE:

Hey, its still 2007 right? Throw the new Lupe Fiasco cd on my list … just got it - ohhhhhhh its good …

The next big thing out of Chi-City

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 18, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

DonC - i see what you’re saying about Javy doing well in spring training and stinking in the regular season. if that happens, i’d guess that the braves would just designate him for assignment and bring in sammons. it’s not like he’s blocking sammons’ or pena’s star-promising path to the majors, you know? there doesn’t seem to be much of a rush to get a rookie into the backup position this year (there seemed to be one with salty, but not with sammons or pena).

your hypothetical situation with lopez reminds me of mike remlinger in 2006 — he did well enough in spring training, but then the braves released him in june that year. though, if my hunch is right, he was released more because he wasn’t being supportive of his teammates (chipper, specifically) in the news than stinking during the regular season. i’m sure that both of those factored into his release (although he wasn’t pitching as bad as other relievers have been, in and out of atlanta), although i suspect that his comments were the final straw and had he not made them, he would’ve been given more chances as a reliever.

i’m not positive that’s how it all shook out; just my hunch.

By Tom in NY

December 18, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Speaking of new albums, new Mary J. Blige album came out today, already listened twice and it’s amazing.

Surprised Alicia Keys album didn’t pop up on anyone’s list. Hype or not, it’s very good.

By Brian (denizen of the day 6/18/07)

December 18, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Josh Anderson as CF hitting .260-.270 is the worst thing that could happen? Are you kidding? That would give the Braves, albeit less power, a .50 upgrade over last year AND some speed on the bases. How many innings would have been kept alive last year had we had that kind of production out of Andruw?

By Kentavo

December 18, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Kentavo’s albums of the year;

1. “Attic Jam,” Pete Townshend, Rachel Fuller and guests (including Ranconteurs, Editors, “Death Cab For Cutie)

2. “Icky Thump” White Stripes

3. “Wincing the Night Away,” The Shins

4. “Into the Wild” (soundtrack) Eddie Vedder

5. “Echoes, Silence, Patience, Grace” Foo Fighters

By Randy

December 18, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

My top 3 albums of 2007:

of Montreal - Hissing Fauna, Are You the Destroyer?

Arcade Fire - Neon Bible

The Shins - Wincing the Night Away

My top live shows attended of 2007:

Arcade Fire - Atlanta Civic Center

of Montreal - any of the 4 times I saw them this year, I’ll go with Halloween at the 40 Watt.

Yo La Tengo - Variety Playhouse

Les Claypool’s Fancy Trio - Echo Project Festival

Johnny Vidacovich, Mike Dillon, Skerik, Marco Benevento - Maple Leaf Bar, JazzFest

Greyboy Allstars - Variety Playhouse

My top games attended 2007:

UGA-Auburn - Sanford Stadium

Braves-Mets - Smoltz’s 200th win, Turner Field

LSU-Arkansas - Tiger Stadium

By phil niekro

December 18, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

daybed wagmoe,

the only thing that got remlinger released is that he was done. this javy story is nice and everything but there has got to be a reason that javy did not get picked up after the rockies released him. that being said if he can still play its a great roll of the dice. should know early in spring training.

By WHITEY

December 18, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

who cares the whole game of baseball is a lie fake players and definately fake fans.players making millions off drugs and yall are dumb for supporting the game.who cares about the braves i dont never see them going to the world series again.unless they get clemons and pettitte there steroid arms will give us a pass.

By Cooper S

December 18, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

Luckily, I already had a best of list:

1.Arcade Fire- Neon Bible

2.Apples In Stereo- New Magnetic Wonder

3.Of Montreal- Hissing Fauna, Are You the Destroyer?

4.Wilco- Sky Blue Sky

5.Radiohead- In Rainbows

6.New Pornographers- Challengers

7.Bruce Springsteen- Magic

8.Band of Horses- Cease to Begin

9.Kings of Leon- Because of the Times

10.Rufus Wainwright- Release the Stars

11.Black Lips- Good Bad Not Evil

12.The National- Boxer

13.Various Artists- I’m Not There Soundtrack

14.The Pendletons- Oh, Me!

15.The Shins- Wincing the Night Away

And then an extra 11 in no particular order:

-Andrew Bird- Armchair Apocrypha

-Spoon- Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga

-Arctic Monkeys- Favourite Worst Nightmare

-Paul McCartney- Memory Almost Full

-Devendra Banhart- Smokey Rolls Down Thunder Canyon

-LCD Soundsystem- Sound of Silver

-Bjork- Volta

-Modest Mouse- We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank

-Lucinda Williams- West

-White Stripes- Icky Thump

-Feist-The Reminder

By DAP

December 18, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

ive been searching all over for “marry me panda bear” that a denizen suggested recently, but i cant find it.

By phil niekro

December 18, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

whitey,

you win the genius of the day award.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 18, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

Cooper S,

you wouldn’t happen to be, by chance, a Blue Hose, would you?

very nice list too.

By Thrillhouse44

December 18, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

phil niekro,

Whitey can’t hear us. You’re a fake player and I’m a fake fan. And judging by his grammar and spelling, Whitey went to a fake elementary school.

By StingerSplash

December 18, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

Been waitin on a good Ghostface Killa reference.

By Cooper S

December 18, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

Daybed, I don’t know what a Blue Hose is, but I’m glad you liked the list…

By Spider29

December 18, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

I am skepical of Javy’s ability to make the team this spring. He was never a great defensive catcher. He did have some good power-hitting years as our starting catcher. I also seem to remember that he wasn’t much of a pinch hitter. That may be wrong. If true, it might also be because he wasn’t used often in that role. I hope he can make it back but I am not holding my breath. To 22oz, I agree with you on the Gary Allan CD.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 18, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

Cooper S,

it was a longshot anyway. the Blue Hose is the mascot of Presbyterian College, my alma mater, and i knew a cooper s there who had similar taste in music. oh well.

what’s the new Of Montreal like? is it more of the dance/techno direction they’ve gone in, or rock, or what?

By phil niekro

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

with all this talk about a stop-gap cf. here is an interesting statistic. andruw and renteria had a higher combined .OPS then francoeuer and mccann. time for the home town boys to step up and earn their accolades. dont care about their age both have plenty of major league at-bats under their belt. they have to be better then .782 and .772 .ops (flat out aint gonna cut it.)

those two guys are the offensive keys next year.

By whitey

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

phil niekro(fake wanna be)the truth hurts dont it.LOL!

By Randy

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

Does anyone ever read the song lyrics DOB puts up at the end?? Anyone?

Or do you do the immediate scroll down to the comments?

Personally, I just scroll on down.

By Wayne in UT (Juicy Javy is the Best!)

December 18, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Gotta say there are precious few artists on those albums I even recognize the names of. Guess that dates me, huh.

I have XM, and talk radio, so I have only bought one “album” this year, the Led Zepplin “Mothership” release. I think one of my sons are going to give me the new Eagles CD for a Christmas gift.

Javy as a non-roster invitee is no problem. If he hits, great. If not, then thanks for the memories.

When will one of these players on the Mitchell report come out and say, “Hey, I did the ‘roids. I probably shouldn’t have, but everybody else was doing it, so I wasn’t going to be left in the dirt.”

Also, let’s not be naive and think that all current Braves players are clean. I wouldn’t have been shocked if the number would have been 400-500 names on the report, if other trainers would have stepped forward and talked.

New blogs are great….and fast!

By phil niekro

December 18, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

say what you want about javy but he did hit some big postseason home runs for us and he played out of his mind in the 96 nlcs.

By mo in the boonies

December 18, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

Dap from the last blog, surviving is “just hanging on by your fingernails” which is about what third place is.

I don’t think we should be relying on Aybar too much, we still don’t know if the drug rehab took hold. But I’m more than ready to have Thorman gone…but don’t expect him to be, he seems to be one of those who Cox just won’t let go of. Javy? Who knows?

This morning Shummer, Senator from NY said he is writing a bill that will make HGH a criminal offense with jail time of 5 years for first offense, to ten years for second offense.

By Art in FL via TN

December 18, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

As an avid reader of this blog and occassional blogger, I just wanna say… I am in no way related to “Art” at 2:20 pm. Javy in left…. mhmmm. maybe we can have Berryhill play center and Ozzie Virgil in right, since this is apparently “stick an old catcher in the outfield” day

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

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

When Javy Lopez is the subject of a blog , things must be really slow in the baseball world.

I don’t think Lopez will make the team unless he has somehow improved his play(INSERT VARIOUS CHEMICALLY ENHANCING SUBSTANCES)during his year away from baseball.

I also don’t anticipate the Braves doing much of anything between now and spring training.

By ColoradoBravesFan

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

Randy…. yes I would guess many do read the lyrics. The biggest percentage of this blog today is music first then Javy getting a second chance. Lots of folks on here talking music today. I, like you, just scroll on by, but I do like to read what others think on certain music/songs. Go Braves…

By CAR3BOOGIE

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

My 2 favorite games I attended of all time:

Actually saw a man drop his false teeth over the fence in the picnic area onto the dirt on the field, lean over as trying to catch a foul ground ball, Pick up his teeth rinse them off with a beer put them back in his mouth never missing a beat.

By Braveheart

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

Javy in left, huh? They are called the Braves and all but I don’t think they are looking for someone with the mobility of a cigar store indian to play left field.

By WarParty

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

DOB,

I got jacked over the live report you had in AZ this past fall with the impressive outing of Charlie Morton along with similar impressions you reported from Wren and Cox who were also in attendance.

My question is, how impressive does a guy have to be in spring training to have a shot at the final 25? This question relates to other guys as well, like Jordan.

Do they have to:

a) Blow away everyone on most every outing or ABs in a game?

b) Prove they belong by being consistent by someone’s subjective measurement of success?

Is it more a ‘feeling’ than a statistical body of work or coupled with same? I know this is a highly subjective question but thought you might shed some light on the issue?

Thanks.

By KC

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

OPENING DAY GET TOGETHER AT FOXSPORTS GRILL IN ATL:

A few of us are putting together a GTG to watch the game on opening day at Foxsports Grill at Atlantic Station in Atlanta. If you’re interested, please email me at embassypro@hotmail.com.

By Dan

December 18, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

Any Holiday rumors concerning a long term deal or deals for Frenchy or Tex???

By Braveheart

December 18, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

How about bringing Marquis Grissom back as an instructor in spring training for a week or so for some of our young players? Perhaps, Grissom could teach Blanco, Schafer, Anderson, Brandon Jones, Frenchy, Yunel Escobar, Brent Lillibridge to steal some more bases like Grissom once did when he was young and stole 76, 78 bases. The Braves need to find ways to manufacture runs in late and close situations. Maybe a tip or two from Grissom in the spring can help our youngsters steal a needed victory or two in August, September, and October. Wouldn’t hurt for them to listen to a few tips on defense from Grissom either. It also wouldn’t hurt for some of his leadership skills to rub off on Frenchy, Yunel, and McCann who look to be the leaders of the Braves for the next decade.

I dunno if that is something the Braves or Grissom would be interested in or if that idea is just plain corny but the Braves have built up quite a tradition now. It’s time to start flaunting it and digging into it to receive assistance from past greats to address team needs. I know they have Pendleton and Hubbard and the like around but, sometimes, people are more likely to listen to a guest instructor than they are their everyday instructor.

By Lew

December 18, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

If Boyer throws Left Handed, then I drew his portrait backwards and Blaine didn’t catch it when he signed the drawing.

Afraid my music favorites this year were nothing new and unique. Couldn’t afford as many as usual (new ac/heat pump system) so I recorded anthologies from my own collection. I listened more to a 15 volume Southern Rock Anthology I put together than anything else. Lots of great music on it. Not new, by any means (though it does have some Isbell and the new Kings Of Leon), but great music nonetheless. The Arcade Fire, the new Cult CD and The new Lillian Axe were high points for me and the Jason Isbell solo was a good one, as well.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

December 18, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

Breaking news : Roger Clemens has publicly denied using steroids or HGH.

News flash : Roger Clemens is a lying sack of DODO. See the following analogy.

Quote from the Mitchell report :

“According to McNamee, from the time that McNamee injected Clemens with Winstrol through the end of the 1998 season, Clemens’ performance showed remarkable improvement,” the report said. “During this period of improved performance, Clemens told McNamee that the steroids ’had a pretty good effect’ on him.”

From April 1st to June 24th of the 1998 season , Clemens went 8-6 with an ERA of 3.77 giving up 42 earned runs in 102.2 innings of work.

Then from June 30th to Sept. 26th of the 1998 season , Clemens went 12-0 with an ERA of 1.76 giving up 26 earned runs in 132.2 innings of work.

Clemens allegedly stopped using in 1999 and went 14-10 with an ERA of 4.60 .

McNamee also told investigators that “during the middle of the 2000 season, Clemens made it clear that he was ready to use steroids again.

Clemens had a record of 4-6 with an ERA of 4.76 during the first half of the 2000 season.

The second half , Clemens went 9-2 with an ERA of 3.00

Coincidence ? I think not. Pretty damning stuff if you ask me.

By Randy

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

Randy, I read the lyrics about half the time. And since you have stolen my name (kidding), I, like my brother Cooper S, will now go by Randy S here. That is my list of albums, shows, games of 2007 up there, by the way.

By Randy, now Randy S

December 18, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Randy, I read the lyrics about half the time. And since you have stolen my name (kidding), I, like my brother Cooper S, will now go by Randy S here. That is my list of albums, shows, games of 2007 up there, by the way.

By Erik

December 18, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

I had already posted my top 10 a couple of threads ago, but I’ll go ahead and repost it here (and round it out to 30), since it seems to be the official place for such things:

1. Of Montreal - Hissing Fauna, Are You the Destroyer?

2. Deerhoof - Friend Opportunity

3. The Besnard Lakes - The Besnard Lakes are the Dark Horse

4. Animal Collective - Strawberry Jam

5. Sunset Rubdown - Random Spirit Lover

6. Andrew Bird - Armchair Apocrypha

7. Deerhunter - Cryptograms

8. Radiohead - In Rainbows

9. White Williams - Smoke

10. St. Vincent - Marry Me

11. Panda Bear - Person Pitch

12. Black Moth Super Rainbow - Dandelion Gum

13. Liars - Liars

14. Marnie Stern - In Advance of the broken Arm

15. Health - Health

16. Beirut - The Flying Club Cup

17. Matthew Dear - Asa Breed

18. Blonde Redhead - 23

19. Arcade Fire - Neon Bible

20. Jens Lekman - Night Falls Over Kortedala

21. Menomena - Friend and Foe

22. Patrick Wolf - The Magic Position

23. The Clientele - God Save the Clientele

24. Dan Deacon - Spiderman of the Rings

25. Blitzen Trapper - Wild Mountain Nation

26. Spoon - Ga Ga Ga Ga

27. Clap Your Hands Say Yeah - Some Dark Thunder

28. Apples in Stereo - New Magnetic Wonder

29. David Karsten Daniels - Sharp Teeth

30. Via Audio - Say Something

I know that was an absurdly long list, but it was really tough to even trim it to 30. This was a really fantastic year for music. Probably the best in the last 30+ years. A lot of people might not realize it, but I firmly believe we’re in the middle of a second musical golden age (the first being ~1966-1971). I guess we’ll have to wait 10-15 years to see if the music holds up over time. My guess is that it will. (Most of it, at least. I fully expect to not enjoy, say, Dan Deacon, as much in 20 years)

By Lew

December 18, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this

Coach-Not to nitpick, but Clemens is a lying sack of extinct prehistoric bird? Perhaps you meant DOO DOO and not DODO?

By Cooper S

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

Daybed, Ahh got it. Definitely didn’t connect, and I even have a good friend that went to PC.

The new Of Montreal is very dancey, much like the album before it, Sunlandic Twins. filled with lots of electronics and cool grooves and gets a little funky. Great hooks and the music goes to really unexpected places. Think of it as really bizarre, funky indie-pop. How’s that for a genre?

By Forrest Gump

December 18, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this

I will be at Lake Buena Vista just to see Javy. We love ya, man.

By Braves' Fan

December 18, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

Javy es muy macho!

By Metropolitan Man

December 18, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

Wow, they said signing all those ex-braves will bring back those old winning ways. I hope this is waht they are talking about:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j141/ECKoolAid/a*****.jpg

By stephen

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

DOB, you need to pick up Mute Math’s self titled album…would be the new number 1 on your list.

By Braveheart

December 18, 2007 6:03 PM | Link to this

Damn Coach. That was some impressive research and pretty damning of Clemens. Looks like Roger the dodger is gonna continue to dodge what we all know to be true. Why are they all so stupid? Do they really think we are all stupid? I think most of us figured out Clemens a decade ago but never had proof like we had with Bonds. And who the hell is Andy Pettitte freaking kidding? He is so full of it. Stop hiding your b.s. behind the Bible Andy.. Did you forget that you added 5 mph to your fastball when you started working out with Clemens? 5 extra miles per hour in your late twenties? Who do you think you are fooling Andy? You were doping up with Roger.

Now that we know the truth, here is a very interesting and damning article from Tom Verducci about Andy Pettite that was published almost 7 years ago on May 30, 2001:

Yankees left-hander Andy Pettitte just keeps on winning — he has a .646 career winning percentage — but he’s become a very different pitcher over the past two years.

“One of the best things to happen to Andy Pettitte was Roger Clemens, ” Yankees manager Joe Torre said.

Clemens impressed upon his fellow Texan the importance of conditioning. The two pitchers now train together in the offseason; Pettitte has become noticeably stronger and more toned. The result: Pettitte recently topped out with his fastball at 95 mph, a good five or six miles per hour better from where he was three years ago. With that kind of power, Pettitte can complement his sinking fastball and his famous cutter with a riding, four-seam fastball, the staple of a power pitcher’s repertoire.

“He’s got some extra weapons now,” Torre said. “He’s throwing a lot of four-seamers.” Said Pettitte, “I feel like my velocity is so good now I can challenge guys. Before, I used to always try to sink the ball. Now I feel like I can beat guys with my fastball. I feel strong. There are certain situations with certain hitters where I feel like I can go right down the middle. I never did that before. I was throwing 85, 86 and sinking everything.”

Pettitte has averaged 7 2/3 innings per start this season, with no fewer than six in any start. One testament to his conditioning was a May 16 start in Oakland in which Torre let him throw 143 pitches. Another testament was how he fared in his next start: a 7-3 win over Boston in which he gave the Yankees 8 1/3 strong innings.

By Metropolitan Man

December 18, 2007 6:09 PM | Link to this

My bust, wrong link:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j141/ECKoolAid/a*****.jpg

By Metropolitan Man

December 18, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this

Daybed Wagmoe its not much but its a start. Omar has a calling of the ARMS.

NEW YORK — Still searching for a starter who might pitch some of the innings left uncovered by Tom Glavine’s departure, the Mets have armed their bullpen with a veteran right-handed pitcher who is expected to cover relief innings for a bullpen that was overworked by late last summer. On Tuesday, the Mets signed free agent Matt Wise to a one-year contract. Wise, who turned 32 last month, comes to the Mets after four seasons with the Brewers, the last three exclusively as a reliever. Although he is not the same kind of pitcher as Guillermo Mota, Wise is likely to work the kind of the innings Mota struggled to cover last summer — post-starter, pre-setup man.

“Matt has had success in a variety of roles,” general manager Omar Minaya said in a prepared statement. “He adds a versatile arm to the bullpen.”

Wise pitched two or more innings six times last season. Manager Willie Randolph had hoped to bring in a versatile reliever after some of the Mets relievers became unnerved by how they were used last summer.

“I’m ecstatic to join the Mets,” Wise said in the same Mets statement. “I look forward to helping out in whatever role Willie Randolph wants.”

Wise, who began his career with the Angels in 2000, produced a 3-2 record, one save and a 4.19 ERA in a career-high 56 games with the Brewers last season, pitching 53 2/3 innings. He allowed 61 hits and 17 walks and struck out 43 batters. Wise has a 3.27 ERA in 33 innings against National League East teams in the last three seasons.

Wise has a 17-21 career record and 4.18 ERA in 201 games.

By Kenneth Simpson

December 18, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

Why don’t Roger Clemens go ahead and admit he took steriods like his buddy did, Andy Pettite and let the chips fall where they may. He might not get 25 million dollars in 08 to win 3-4 games but who cares if he took steriods or not but quit denying it and go ahead and fess up. I know the yankees don’t care because all they care about is buying pennants.

By Old Dawg55

December 18, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

Hey, DOB…I’ll come back sometimes when your MTV gives way to baseball…why not just give it up and become a music critic…you’re more inclined and accurate with that analysis…you’re missing your demongrahics, too!

By Nelson

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

DOB:Absolutely agree with you, they have nothing to loose and in addition if you compare the back-up catchers the braves had lately, Javy is a MONSTER!

By summerteeth

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

Man, how could you leave Son Volt off?

By Roidger Clemens

December 18, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this

Hi, I’m Roger Clemens, and I’d like to set the record straight. I did not take any banned substances, especially if the alleged substances were not banned at the time I might have allegedly not taken them. Also, I did not take steroids -of course, if someone shot me in the butt several times with steroids, then they did it, not me. As far as HGH, that was not the exact name of what I may have taken, so I did not take HGH. And since I took a shower this morning I can look you in the eye and say that I am clean. Now that all of this nonsense is behind me (forgive my bad pun), I can get back to the important things in my life like wondering who will win the annual “Roger has Decided to Come out of Retirement to Make $20 Million for Pitching 15 Games Sweepstakes” And remember MLB general managers, you must be 18 years of age or older to enter (we wouldn’t want to break the law).

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

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

I stand corrected , Clemens is a lying sack of DOO DOO.

Some other research I did :

Compelling evidence of the effectiveness of steroids and HGH.

Jose Canseco(1982 15th round pick) , who played from 1985-2001 , candidly admitted to Mike Wallace in his 2005 interview on 60 minutes that he never would have been a major league caliber player(462 HR’s) without Steroids and HGH.

Ozzie Canseco (2nd round 1983 pick), Jose’s identical twin brother , had a grand total of 65 at bats in the big leagues……and never hit a single HR.

By Bryan

December 18, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

Old Dawg 55,

Which ever one of your grandkids taught you how to use the internet needs to show you how to work the TV so you can get the dial past 10 and see that MTV has about as much music as this blog has water polo talk …

also, what are demongrahics???? Is that some kind of 1930’s baseball joke i wouldn’t get because i watch to much of that dag gum ol tele-vision?

deamon-grahics sounds kinda scary!

By AZBravoFan

December 18, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

As my brother told me after the Javy signing: “We’re gettin’ the band back together!” Anyone heard from Mike Mordecai?

By Bryan

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

Ohh and Daybed,

the official reason the braves cut Remlinger: This is from the official BBATA report -

Bobby Cox, after a moth long relapse into Afgani black tar heroin, pulled a needle out of his arm and said “HOLY S### We Have Mike F’ing Remlinger On Our Team.”

However, as soon as bobby said this, Mike walked into the clubhouse with a needle (and the damage done) and eased Bobby back in the chair … needless to say, Mike hung on with the team for another month.

Thus extending the ol’ baseball adage: You can pitch in baseball for a long time if you are a lefty with a good black tar heroin connection …

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

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

Players from 1995 who are still active : Ryan Klesko , Mike Stanton , Greg Maddux , Chipper Jones , Jason Schmidt , Javy Lopez , John Smoltz and Tom Glavine.

By Dennis G. Berdanis

December 18, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

Sermon On Exhibition Avenue by Ricki Lee Jones Challengers by The New Pornographers

By TK

December 18, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this

I had a friend tell me the Braves have talked to the Twins about * Joe Nathan.* I can’t find that rumor anywhere. Has anyone else heard it? I can not see the Braves pulling that off. I think the Twins would want to much in return.

By NASCARfan

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

For once on this Blog, O’Brien, BE HONEST!!!

It doesn’t matter how good or bad Javy Does in Spring Training. he could hit .180, and still he’ll make the team.

Why? Because Booby Cox is STILL the manager, isn’t he? Booby Cox will pitch Glavine first and start Lopez at catcher with McCann backing him up, you wait and see.

And you know it’s true, O’Brien.

Booby Cox needs to be fired and fired soon. This team will never reach its potential with Booby on the bench. It never really did for 14 straight years, so why would it now?

By BB FAN

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

Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008),

Jose Canseco and Ozzie Canseco both have admitted to Performance Enhancing Drug use. Both Jason Giambi and Jeremy Giambi have both admitted to Performance Enhancing Drugs as well.

If anything, this helps support the idea that it takes more than just steroids or HGH to perform in the majors. Don’t get me wrong, I’m sure it helps, but a person still has to have the skills to be a major league baseball player. I guess you could say, the Performance Enhancing Drugs could take a career minor leaguer to a bench player status; a bench player to a starter; a starter to a minor star, a minor star to a star; a star to superstar status.

There are hundreds of cases where players took the drugs and did nothing in the majors. In fact many of the players named in the Mitchell report were career minor leaguers with only about 1000 at bats in the majors or career role players or bench players.

I am glad that MLB is getting rid of the drug use in baseball, but that’s not why Bonds hit 762 HRs and Clemens won 354 games. Both guys had amazing talent as well. Jose Canseco obviously had more talent than his brother Ozzie. As did Jason Giambi compared to Jeremy Giambi.

I think many of the guys listed in the Mitchell report were either recovering from injuries or trying to hang on for one more year in the sun when they took the drugs. Of course, there are many guys like Dykstra as well. Dykstra obviously had talent, but he needed the boost from minor star to star status.

By BB FAN

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

Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008),

Jose Canseco and Ozzie Canseco both have admitted to Performance Enhancing Drug use. Both Jason Giambi and Jeremy Giambi have both admitted to Performance Enhancing Drugs as well.

If anything, this helps support the idea that it takes more than just steroids or HGH to perform in the majors. Don’t get me wrong, I’m sure it helps, but a person still has to have the skills to be a major league baseball player. I guess you could say, the Performance Enhancing Drugs could take a career minor leaguer to a bench player status; a bench player to a starter; a starter to a minor star, a minor star to a star; a star to superstar status.

There are hundreds of cases where players took the drugs and did nothing in the majors. In fact many of the players named in the Mitchell report were career minor leaguers with only about 1000 at bats in the majors or career role players or bench players.

I am glad that MLB is getting rid of the drug use in baseball, but that’s not why Bonds hit 762 HRs and Clemens won 354 games. Both guys had amazing talent as well. Jose Canseco obviously had more talent than his brother Ozzie. As did Jason Giambi compared to Jeremy Giambi.

I think many of the guys listed in the Mitchell report were either recovering from injuries or trying to hang on for one more year in the sun when they took the drugs. Of course, there are many guys like Dykstra as well. Dykstra obviously had talent, but he needed the boost from minor star to star status.

By Desperado Dave

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

Hey, Otis Nixon would be a nice stop-gap CF if he can stay off of the nose candy long enough. David Justice can get back on the juice and be good for another couple years….oh boy.

By Braves Fan 79

December 18, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this

Man if GT only had Crinnention back!

I LOVE the Lopez signing…and actually i called for it this time last year. Im so sick of us bringing in .200 hitting guys with NO power to pinch hit late in games! I really wish the Braves would go all out these last years of Smoltz and Chipper and win another title…but sometimes it seems were just trying to make the playoffs…instead of building a team that could win it all! (before we brought up escobar last year we had the worst bench in the MAJORS…HANDS DOWN!!) and thats why we didnt make the playoffs… I would take us sucking 2011-2015 or so if we could just have 2 or 3 more GREAT years!

By Jon

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

NASCARFan, you are an idiot if you think that is true.

By Dan

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

Any update on a possible long ternm deal for either Frenchy or Tex?

By Pot Hill

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

I have to wonder how White Stripes’ Icky Thump could be left of any list, and especially your list.

By mike28212

December 18, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

This has to be the best blog of any type on the internet. I don’t post a lot but usually read the blog and all the posts. I’ll throw my fave albums of the year in random order. I have a few on DOB’s list that I’m hoping Santa brings.

Wilco - Sky Blue Sky

Arcade Fire - Neon Bible

Spoon - GaGaGaGaGa

White Stripes - Icky Thump

Radiohead - In Rainbows

Eddie Vedder - Into the Wild

Various - I’m Not There soundtrack

Amy Winehouse - Back to Black

Porcupine Tree - Fear of a Blank Planet

Flight of the Conchords - the Distant Future

Neil Young - Chrome Dreams II

Sigur Ros - Hvarf/Heim

By NASCARfan

December 18, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

Jon, you watch, Lopez will make this team no matter how poorly he does.

How could he not? Booby still manages.

By richie

December 18, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

DOB, do you think the Tommy and John would attempt to persuade Maddux to come back here at the trade deadline if the Friars are out of it? Looking at the NL West, the competition just got stiffer with the addition of Haren to the DBacks and the moves the Dodgers made out there. I know we havent gotten out of the Winter yet but it just seems like that is something that would happen. I think our pitchers could use all of that wisdom, even Hudson, who is a Maddux type pitcher. And I know we’d be making the rotation very, very old. But why not have Smoltz, Glavine and Maddux together making a postseason/divison run. I know we’d have 4 starters who’d definitely go 6 innings. What do you think?

By bravesfan16

December 18, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

My top ten:

1. Josh Ritter-The Historical Conquests of Josh Ritter
2. Two Cow Garage-III
3. Glossary-The Better Angels of Our Nature—-this is free on their website
4. Mark Olson-The Salvation Blues
5. Wilco-Sky Blue Sky
6. Mic Harrison and the High Score-Push me on Home
7. The Everybodyfields-Nothing is Okay 8.Bruce- Magic
8. Jason Isbell-Sirens in the Ditch 10 Centro-Matic-Operation Motorcide EP

Just missing (in no order): Chris Knight-Trailer Tapes Sharon Jones and Dap Kings 100 days 100 nights The Sadies- New Seasons Explosions in the Sky-All of a sudden I miss Everyone Betty LaVette-Scene of the Crime (with DBT backing) Scott Miller-Reconstruction

By Brent S.

December 18, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

Josh Ritter is one of my favorite artists, but I did not think “Historical Conquests” was as good as “Animal Years”. I know the albums’ tones differed, but it took me a while to really embrace conquests.

By Jared

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

Chad Paronto signs one year deal w/ Astros

By Brad in MT

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

NASCARfan…you can’t really believe that can you? That is such a ridiculous thought…

By Bryan

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

Sigur Ros - Hvarf/Heim good call mike!

I did not mention that one … but that is one of my favorites of the year.

Do you have radiohead disk 2 of in rainbows… some really good and different tracks … not just throw ins.

By David O'Brien

December 18, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

Just back from the KU-Tech game, folks. Waay too close for comfort at the end; Techsters almost pulled one out. Whew….

Anyway, just so you know, Teixeira had a very minor left-knee surgery, an athroscopic procedure right after Thanksgiving to clean out a little “loose debris,” which is usually another way of saying to clean out a little piece of cartilage. He’ll be ready to roll a few weeks.

Trust me on this: There are usually two or three guys on the team who have this type of procedure every offseason and we never even hear about it. The team just doesn’t announce so-and-so had arthroscopic surgery when it’s an offseason thing that doesn’t cause him to miss any practice time or games.

Teixeiera was given the choice, doc basically told him he could get it cleaned up and be fine for spring, or keep playing with occasional discomfort. Braves left it up to him to decide, and he wanteed to get it done to be fully recovered well in advance of spring training. Should be fine by mid-January, five weeks before position players are due to report to camp.

By David O'Brien

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

Wow — I was in a rush to get the blog posted before I left this afternoon, and didn’t get to go over the CD list carefully enough. I had two glaring omissions that should have easily made my top 25 — Jason Isbell’s “Sirens in the Ditch” and Son Volt’s “The Search.”

Gonna have to replace a couple others with those two. Just those two changes. I’m allowed, right? (Hey, I’m doing it anyway). Need to get those right. These things happen when you’re going through stacks of CDs and trying to figure out which were released in 2007 and which came out late in 2006, etc. Can’t leave off those two great albums, though.

By N8

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

Braves Fan 79

When referring to the Javy signing, and how much you like it, you stated the following as a reason:

“Im so sick of us bringing in .200 hitting guys with NO power to pinch hit late in games!”

Uh….

In 2003 (his last year in Atlanta), Javy, in 457 AB’s, hit .328 with 43 HR (1 every 10.62 AB) and 109 RBI in 129 games.

Since then, (actually from 2004 - 2006, since he was released from the Rockies in Spring Training last year), in 1316 AB’s, he has hit .278 with 43 HR (1 every 30.60 AB) and 170 RBI in 347 games.

So while Javy may have more power than Pete Orr, I’m not so sure that after him taking a 1 year layoff (after steadily declining for 3 years before “taking a break”), that I’d put him in the category of being a power bat off the bench.

In fact, he’ll (if he even makes the team), be closer to what Mondesi or Craig Wilson were, than what Sammy Sosa was for the Rangers last year, after taking about the same amount of time off, and almost identical “declines” in their numbers….you can come to your own conclusion WHY that is. :-)

Having said all of that…I don’t have a problem taking a chance on Javy. However, I WILL have a problem if he makes the club due to past reputation (like Wilson did last year), since he and Bobby have a history.

Maybe he’ll surprise us all.

By MattNC

December 19, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB, why no Wilco? I thought “Sky Blue Sky” was an excellent album. Agree with you on Arcade Fire.

By uga-brave

December 19, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this

phil niekro,

you posted that the combined .ops of renteria and andruw was better then the gwinett county all-stars. wow at least i am not the only one that saw that problem. time for them to become the face of the franchise. their .obp has to impove no matter what. mccann’s .obp was only .320 last year. in my book .obp and .ops are the most important stats in baseball.

most baseball experts say divide a players .ops by three and that gives you their value as far as a hitter’s worth. well both the boys from gwinnett .ops were below .780 last year.

that gives you about a .260 real average. well its time to step up guys. this offense is now built around you. no more excuses about being young. in baseball terms both are now salty. they have had more then enough at bats.

if the braves are to be contenders they will be the key.

By N8

December 19, 2007 12:12 AM | Link to this

BB Fan

“I am glad that MLB is getting rid of the drug use in baseball, but that’s not why Bonds hit 762 HRs and Clemens won 354 games. Both guys had amazing talent as well. Jose Canseco obviously had more talent than his brother Ozzie. As did Jason Giambi compared to Jeremy Giambi.”

Are you frickin’ KIDDING ME????

Find me another pair of guys that have produced (much less stayed on the field), the way that Clemens and Bonds did on the juice. Don’t bother looking, you won’t find any others (other than Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa and Rafael Palmeiro).

Whether the jucie “enhanced” their abilities or not, it allowed them the stamina and recovery of health to stay on the field (or get back on the field), thus allowing them to rack up more numbers.

Listen, I’m not arguing that they both have GREAT god-given abilities (more than likely enough to be HOF guys without the juice), before the spike in numbers. But there is NO WAY that Bonds even remotely gets close to 755 without the steroids.

Imagine if Nolan Ryan had used HGH??? What, would he have pitched until he was 60?

I’m not sure if anybody heard Smoltz on Jim Rome the other day (Monday), but it was an EXCELLENT interview. Rome has pretty much been playing sound-bites from it ever since.

Rome asked Smoltz if he ever thought of “using”. Smoltz responded with a resounding NO. Stating that it would’ve been nice to have something help him recover from his injuries, but he never thought about it.

Imagine if he had? He’d EASILY be knocking on 300 wins, since he probably would’ve never become a closer without the arm trouble.

So knowing what we know (or what is alleged about Clemens), who is more impressive, Rocket or Mad Dog? Hell…throw Glavine into that mix as well?

Why hasn’t Clemens SUED THE THE PANTS OFF of anybody involved with the Mitchell investigation? Why hasn’t Bonds sued as well?

Smoltz said that if it were him (getting wrongfully accused), he come out with multiple lawsuits in a heartbeat trying to clear his name.

Saying steroids didn’t help Bonds and Clemens because they already had talent is just plain silly.

Sorry dude.

By TennesseePaul

December 19, 2007 12:16 AM | Link to this

DOB: Glaring omissions? No, no, no, no, no. You can not change the list. What would that tell the children? Somebody please think of the children!

I see you dropped Modest Mouse from the list to make room. Not a bad move. I am a little surprised that Wilco is not on that list. It has been mentioned by several posters already. It’s a good one. Also, if you never picked it up, I know I forgot to ship it to you, my advanced copy was snaked, Richard Swift’s album is worth it.

From what I can tell I purchased 11 albums that were released this year:
Spoon Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga
Richard Swift Dressed Up For the Let Down
Interpol Our Love to Admire
Wilco Sky Blue Sky
Aqueduct Or Give Me Death
Rilo Kiley Under the Backlight
Radiohead In Rainbows
Modest Mouse We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank
Smashing Pumpkins Zeitgeist
Velvet Revolver Libertad
The Shins Wincing the Night Away

And that’s pretty much the order they’d be in if I sorted by number of times listened, which I’d assume means how much I like it. Spent the bulk of the music money on older stuff. I’ve been building and building on the Jazz and “old stuff” (Blues, Funk, R&B, Zydeco, Gospel, Boogie Woogie, Motown, Swing, Soul, etc.) this year. I finally got all of it ripped so I can listen to it more frequently. That took forever. But it’s done now, for the second time. The first time, right when I finished the drive crashed and I lost everything. That was depressing. For some reason it seemed to coincide directly with the Braves Interleague nightmare. I could be wrong on that, but it just seems fitting. They couldn’t score a run and I lost all my tunes. Still had them on other media, but damn it all, that took forever to do over again.

By TennesseePaul

December 19, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

Arcade Fire. I skipped over that one as well. So I picked up 12 albums from 2007 in 2007. Insert that near the top and keep The Shins at the bottom and the list would look about right.

By Scott

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

How can you not have the new Foo Fighters record on the list? Only rock record to actually get some nominations at the grammys.

My partial list

Foo Fighters-ESPG Eddie Vedder - Into the Wild Modest Mouse -Ship was sank White Stripes - Iggy Thump Dropkick Murphies- The Hardest of Times Queens of the Stone Age - Era Vulgaris

By Objective Lou

December 19, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

Javy and Hampton will team up to become Co-Comeback Players of the Year.

Fragile Mike after winning 10 and losing 9 will seek out free agency and will be signed to a lucrative deal by the Mayo Clinic Syringists who will want to study his muscular-skeletal structure for insights into the many ways the body can break down.

Tommy Glavine will continue to finnce efforts to discover the remains of his idol, Jimmy Hoffa. Tommy will be encouraged by the Wharton School of Business to learn how to differentiate between an independent contractor and a regular union stiff. Tommy may even find time for a picket line and rekindle the zeal of his bygone youth.

By Objective Lou

December 19, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

Javy and Hampton will team up to become Co-Comeback Players of the Year.

Fragile Mike after winning 10 and losing 9 will seek out free agency and will be signed to a lucrative deal by the Mayo Clinic Syringists who will want to study his muscular-skeletal structure for insights into the many ways the body can break down.

Tommy Glavine will continue to finnce efforts to discover the remains of his idol, Jimmy Hoffa. Tommy will be encouraged by the Wharton School of Business to learn how to differentiate between an independent contractor and a regular union stiff. Tommy may even find time for a picket line and rekindle the zeal of his bygone youth.

By N8

December 19, 2007 12:33 AM | Link to this

Back to BB Fan’s steroids comments.

You made a comment about most of the guys in the Mitchell Report “recovering from injury” or hanging on at the end of a career?

You must be really naive to be buying that BS comming out of Vina’s and Pettite’s mouth, huh?

Why is Pettitte being “commended” by the media for “fessing up” to his crime (against baseball), just because he claims he was doing it to recover from injury?

It was still cheating either way. He claims it was to recover faster, NOT to gain a competitive edge. That he was “doing it for his teamates” because he “owed it to them” to get back on the field. WTF?

So anybody that DOESN’T use HGH when injured, is letting their teammates down?

His “edge” (that he claims he wasn’t trying to gain), was GETTING BACK ON THE FIELD SOONER than he could’ve without using it. THAT’S THE EDGE!!!

As far as him (Pettitte) coming clean? HOGWASH! In 2004 he was quoted as saying in an interview that he NEVER…I’ll repeat…NEVER used HGH or steroids, and that it was embarrassing to his “good name” that he would “be mentioned” with the word steroids in the same sentence.

So when he made those comments, he was not only lying (since he NOW admits - after getting busted - that he used in 2002), he was feeding us with as much BS as Palmeiro was when he waived his finger at congress.

So you tell me why on earth am I supposed to believe that he “only” used a couple of times to recover from injury, when he already documented that he’s capable of lying through his teeth?

Make no mistake, anybody (and everybody) who have “come clean” amidst all this scandal, have done so because they were about to get “outed”, not because of conscience.

I would have MUCH MORE respect for Pettitte, had he come out in 2004 and said “I used twice to recover from injury, back in 2002), than him coming out NOW that his name was brought up in the Mitchell report.

He was, is and ALWAYS will be a phony in my book. Lump him in with Mark “I’ll do WHATEVER it takes to help” McGwire, Sammy “I suddenly speak very broken English” Sosa, Rafael “When the little Blue Pill doesn’t work for me, I like to juice up” Palmeiero, Barry “Deny, Deny, Deny until you die” Bonds, and Roger “I’ll play a half of a season on the Juice for 30 million bucks” Clemens.

They all belong in the same category…..A**HOLES.

By Randy S

December 19, 2007 12:39 AM | Link to this

For those who enjoyed the Into the Wild soundtrack, local artist Kaki King (who I went to high school with) also was involved in the score. I’m not sure how involved she was in the soundtrack because I have not heard it, but she was nominated along with Vedder for the Golden Globe for best score. She does some amazing, innovative tapping on the acoustic guitar. Very cool stuff. Check her out.

By uga-brave

December 19, 2007 12:44 AM | Link to this

roger is turning into bar-roid before our eyes. the guy retired how many times? he got the standing o’s and the rocking chairs, the farewell tribute in every town.

he came back and ESPN loved him. he pitched in relief and even hit in the postseason and everyone thought he was a legend.

as for me i always thought he was a 250 pound ego-maniac. the dude loves the spotlight. not that there is anything wrong with that, but when he denied throwing the end of the bat at mike p. in the series he showed his real colors. the guy’s reputation is going down in flames.

no tears here. this country forgives everyone if they step up and tell the truth. lie, and continue to deny and you will end up on the outside looking in.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

Scott, I like the Foo Fighters, just didn’t think that album stood out in any particular way from stuff they’ve done before. I’d have that way behind Queens of the Stone Age’s album among harder-rock albums this year.

Oh, and who cares if something was nominated for a Grammy? Much crapola is always nominated for Grammys each year, in additioin to a few worthy winners. Last year Mariah Carey was nominated for Album of the Year in 2006 at the Grammys. ‘Nuff said.

By SeattleBravesFan

December 19, 2007 12:51 AM | Link to this

I’m not sure my music year would have been as good without these….

Chevelle - Vena Sera Fu Manchu - We Must Obey Ben Harper & IC - Lifeline Clutch - From Beale Street to Oblivion

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 12:51 AM | Link to this

TennPaul, man I gotta say, that Wilco album bored me. It’s good, just boring. Have to be in the right mood. So it’s not in my personal 25. Wouldn’t even have made my 35, either.

I should’ve put Interpol “Antics” on my list, but frankly forgot it was this year for some reason. I can’t make any more changes. That wouldn’t look right to keep changing it. But I’ve loved every album Interpol has put out, and they’re really good live, too….

I really like the Into the Wild soundtrack. But the Once soundtrack would’ve been slightly ahead of it. Both would make my top 50.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

Erik, I just got that album by Beirut last week, and it’s great. Only listened to it once, but I really like it.

Someone recommended Mute Math … heard something about them recently, but don’t know the sound. Who are they like?

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 12:59 AM | Link to this

Randy, I started reading your comment about the song lyrics … but my attention span didn’t allow me to finish. So I scrolled on down….

By N8

December 19, 2007 1:03 AM | Link to this

DOB

Let’s not forget that Milli Vanilli actually WON SOME GRAMMY’S!!!

If THAT doesn’t let you know where the Grammy’s stand in the grand scheme of things in the “quality” of music out there, I’m not sure what will.

I’m not sure what the bigger farce in the history of the Grammy’s is/was….

Milli Vanilli winning, or Jethro Tull winning in the “hard rock” category, the year that Metallica’s “And Justice for All” was nominated.

Both VERY embarrassing marks on the Grammy’s “credibility” from where I’m standing.

By uga-brave

December 19, 2007 1:04 AM | Link to this

n8,

fernando vina did the same thing. they all now have the same corporate line. ” I DID IT TO HELP ME COME BACK FROM INJURIES, I WANTED TO HELP THE TEAM”

it would be refreshing if one of them came out and said ” IT WASN’T A BANNED SUBSTANCE AT THE TIME AND IT MADE ME MORE MONEY”.

at least they could be honest about something.

By TennesseePaul

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

DOB: I can see that about the Wilco album. Antics came out a few years ago though. Our Love to Admire was this year. I’ve enjoyed all their albums but I find this recent one to be the best of the three.
Death Cab’s new one is supposed to hit the stores in May of 2008. I’m looking forward to that one. They haven’t missed one yet.

By uga-brave

December 19, 2007 1:19 AM | Link to this

DOB,

if you are still around, once again great job. the blog and the paper are lucky to have you. i still got my chuck taylor hightops. it was an 80’s thing. either way still love bands like the church, hoodoo gooroos, jason and the schrochers, big head todd, pumpkins, connells, repacements, and r.e.m. as antiquated it might be.

By N8

December 19, 2007 1:19 AM | Link to this

uga-brave

EXACTLY. Well said.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 1:24 AM | Link to this

TennPaul: Our Love to Admire, not Antics. Just ran upstairs to confirm. I’ve got three — Antics, Turn on the Bright Lights, and the new one, our Love to Admire.

Antics and Turn on the Bright Lights were both great, and the new one very good. On the new one, I thought they sounded quite a bit different on two or three tunes, like they were ready to try some new stuff. Which is fine. But I love that distinct sound of theirs from the first two albums, as it comes so directly from Joy Division, one of my favorite old bands.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 1:33 AM | Link to this

uga-brave, I not only still have the Chuck Taylors, but still wear them — to work, even. Usually get some crap from a couple of players when I wear them, but Bobby Dews loves ‘em. That old dude is cool.

Got three pairs of lows — bright white, dull white, and blue. And a pair of hi-top whites. Have to confess, I cheat by putting gel foot pads in ‘em these days. Those thin soles are a bit rough for wearing and walking around all day.

By uga-brave

December 19, 2007 1:53 AM | Link to this

DOB,

wish them chucks had arches.

By uga-brave

December 19, 2007 2:14 AM | Link to this

n8,

and all others, at least we are getting to see some of these guys true character.

we sit here all summer and wonder how can you swing at the first pitch after the pitcher has just thrown eight straight balls.

well now we know. we never thought these guys were wharton guys, we never ever expected it. but what we did expect was some sort of responsibility.

this goes back to an old argument. most of these guys have never had to face authority before. when confronted they mishandle it. there has always been someone to cover up their tracks.

like i said before own up to it and say ” IT WAS NOT A BANNED SUBSTANCE WHEN I TOOK IT AND IT HELPED ME MAKE MORE MONEY” at least that is a capitalistic approach. kind of what this country is based on.

if you dont believe me ask ENRON and WORLDCOM.

By Lance

December 19, 2007 2:47 AM | Link to this

DOB, don’t waste your time with Mute Math. We’ve already heard them before, only with a smug lead-singer in the form of Bono. Pretty much a U2 sound and nothing more.

By RMF

December 19, 2007 2:51 AM | Link to this

While I think it would be pretty cool to see Javy back in action as a Brave and for him to finish up as a Brave, I doubt he will ultimately be on the team unless his defense truly has improved. As mentioned by someone above, Bobby rarely uses his backup catcher as a pinch hitter — if he hits, he generally comes in. I think the defense is going to be more important than the potential offense in making this decision. Javy will also have to check his ego with BMac and be careful how he handles his relationship with BMac. Any sign of tension with BMac and Javy is gone.

Regarding the comments on Pettitte, at least he publicly admitted what he did, apologized for it and was consistent with the trainer’s allegations and the report. I think he deserves some credit for this, but I also think he needs to take the lead in calling for independent testing and in discouraging use of this stuff if he truly wants to restore his reputation. It seems to me that some active players really need to step up on this issue and call for independent testing to protect the integrity of the game. He would be as good a leader as anyone as someone who gave into the temptation.

As far as Clemens, I agree with a lot of the comments above. Although the case against him (so far) is based solely on the word of a convicted felon, sending a statement through his agent only confirms to me a fear that there could be at least some pieces of paper out there linking him to steroids and he will not stand up and personally deny the allegations or subject himself to questioning. He looks pretty guilty to me.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

December 19, 2007 6:03 AM | Link to this

The following eight players who are out of options and on the bubble :

C Brayan Pena , RP Blaine Boyer , RP Chris Resop , RP Phil Stockman , LP Royce Ring , RP Jeff Bennett , RP Buddy Carlyle and last but not least C Javy Lopez.

There are others , but these are the eight who have the best chance of making the team or going bye bye.

By doc

December 19, 2007 6:32 AM | Link to this

n8 good comments on pettitte. some of the remarks he has made along with his working out with roger strikes of the shef and bonds connection that seemed to work until shef threw bonds under the bus a bit and went his own way. the steroid era is the last twenty years and so many are guilty by association and i would think close to what 20-25 % used at some point in their careers i that time span. the net of suspicion is huge.

who is to say the big unit wasnt a user? he seems to have hit his demise when the bust began and since he was a west coast guy maybe he skipped discovery. besides what the anabolics and pure steroids do is mask pain so you can go longer with the common ailments and essentially overtrain the muscle for what he ligaments and tendons can handle and essentially brek down in a huge way.

the ligaments and tendons dont really get stronger in training and certainly not as quick as muscle as there is no blood supply. there is an imbalance that explains some of the common new era injuries that have become so common, in particular are the elbows and i suspect the achilles injuries. so the big unit stops the drugs and his back flares up and he certainly doesnt look like the animal he was in his hey day. maybe he needs to find bonds’ trainer who is so good with the over 40 crowd to help him out without roid assistance. oh yeah the guy is in jail.

as far as the guys coming forth and saying they are clean, i wont accept any of them unless they have the notion to back it up with the guts to do it in a qualified lie detector setting. too many have lied their teeth off to ultimately fall on their sword say in the track business. i am yet to see someone not implicated by the real thing dealers be able to escape. yeah just go to the nearest lie detector site and then fess up or else stay with rose who lied for how many years that a felon who has no cred shouldnt be allowed to sully his good name. once in bed with the devil you become the devil.

david as your list gets longer my wallet gets lighter. have you got any favorite shakuhachi flute bands or soloists that might sound good in my clinic? the son volts, u2, lucinda williams, rem, radioheads et als. used to go well in the operating room but they just dont get it when practicing energy medicine. i guess i’ll have to go it own my own unless i can convince you to get into a different genre. have you ever tried riley lee on your bike n the middle of where. it might be the match for nirvana dude. ill have to go to toco and talk to your buddy and get him to introduce a few to you, of quality of course.

By David-ATL14

December 19, 2007 7:04 AM | Link to this

Thorman too coach(LOL). I know you finally figured out he was out of options last season, I suspect you think he’s not on the bubble.

I believe he most definitely is. He could be traded,but he doesn’t have a spot locked down by any means whatsoever.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

December 19, 2007 7:47 AM | Link to this

Reality to David-ATL14. Ryan Klesko , Tony Clark , Doug Mientkiewicz are just two of the current twelve free agent first basemen. I wonder why the Braves still have Scott Thorman penciled in as the back up to Mark Teixeira ?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 19, 2007 7:58 AM | Link to this

Good morning all, DOB Don’t you feel just a bit put off by the fact that Frank Wren was being a bit less than truthful with you on the topic of Javy Lopez? Obviously he knew the Braves bench coach was working out with him.

I am not saying that he has to confide in you but I would think he could ask you to just hold the story for a while. In the stories filed by you on the 5th and 6th of December your sounded pretty confident the Braves had no interest in bringing Javy back.

I think I would be a bit more skeptical of your sources after this.

By Braveheart

December 19, 2007 8:03 AM | Link to this

Pettitte didn’t really fess up. They said 2 to 4 times. So Pettite said alright, I did it twice, you got me. Pettitte is so full of it..

These players should just do what N8 and ugabrave are suggesting. They are better off saying greed, money, power, ego, fame, the women, competitive desire got the best of me. Sorry. The roid culture in this sport was out of hand, was actually being encouraged and celebrated by the higher ups, so I gave in. That really is the honest answer. If they were honest, they would find that alot of us baseball fans really don’t care and that we all just want to move on already. But if you continue to lie, those of us who really don’t care get really angry about it.

If Pettitte wants me to believe him, he needs to explain how he picked up 5, 6 mph on his fastball in his late twenties if he only used twice AFTER he had already picked up 5, 6 mph on his fastball. Makes no sense. Back in 2001, Torre and Pettitte were giving credit to his workouts with Clemens. EXACTLY! What’s the deal? Mel Stottlemyre couldn’t teach him how to pick up 5, 6 mph on his fastball naturally through improved technique. Well, then, why didn’t the Yankees send the entire pitching staff down to Texas to work with CLemens during the offseason?

Clemens, like Bonds, is a stubborn, arrogant SOB and will go down in flames making the very same mistake Bonds did: dishonesty.

Guys like Clemens and McGwire could be very effective if they were just honest about what they did and threw themselves at the mercy of the public. Instead, it looks like the really big guys pushed the roid era to the extreme, continue to lie about it but the little guys, the F.P. Santangelos of the world, are like yeah I did it, my career was ending prematurely and I had to continue to try to compete in this roid world where the very best of the best were making it increasingly hard to compete. As a result, we become somewhat sympathetic to the Santangelos of the world and we harden our stance to Clemens and Bonds because of how much they are drawing the line in the sand.

They should look to the example Mickey Mantle set right before he died when he issued lots of statements and did lots of interviews telling people, fans, kids not to live their lives like a bunch of philandering, drunken fools like Mickey was. As a result, Mickey’s legacy grew even more.

Clemens and McGwire should not wait until they are on their deathbed like Mickey Mantle did.

By Braveheart

December 19, 2007 8:10 AM | Link to this

Coach, I like Thorman and they might keep him around. His thunder off the bench could be helpful like it was late in games a few times last season. However, I really don’t see the Braves keeping a young, struggling first baseman on the roster the entire season who may never get 100 at bats for the entire season. Doesn’t make any sense. The Braves would be better off with someone with more positional utility like Pena or Diaz playing on the bench and filling in at first in the 10 or so games Tex might miss.

By BB FAN

December 19, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this

N8,

“Saying steroids didn’t help Bonds and Clemens because they already had talent is just plain silly.”

I never said that steroids or HGH did not help them. You missed the meaning of my post. I just said they had the talent to get the numbers they got. Off course HGH and/or Steroids helped keep them on the field.

If it was just the steroids and HGH use, then why didn’t Ozzie Canseco hit 462 homers like his brother Jose? Why didn’t Jeremy Giambi hit 364 + homers like his brother Jason? Why didn’t Adam Piatt hit 762 homers? How about Gary Bennett? Why couldn’t he do the same? Why didn’t all of those picthers listed in the report win 354 games?

I’ll tell you why those guys haven’t done sh!t in baseball even though they used steroids and/or HGH…they didn’t have the talent!!!!

That is my point…a guy needs the talent to make it in the majors. You and I can not decide to take these drugs and make it to the Big Leagues!!

By Braves Stink

December 19, 2007 8:54 AM | Link to this

If the roster the Braves have now is the roster they are going to play the season with, then the Braves can quit the “we have a good team” crap right now. Even the average fan can see that they had no intention of spending those “millions” they claimed to have to spend on players. They are either too young or too old at most positions, with broken down players, players way over the hill, a potential starting staff where your two “aces” are 41, another lefty starter who has not pitched a full season with success since FDR was in office, a ??? bunch of names in the pen. No, Atlanta has gone the cheep road. They are going the Pirates and KC route. We will start over young and go from there. So, if this bunch of young pan out, 4 or 5 years before they compete. What of all those so called great farm hands that the Braves traded away for players, and we thought they were giving away the farm, but those guys were no bodies. Never came to anything. So, all hope is now on a 20 or 21 year old hoping he comes to play and make it. OR some over the hill veteran. Nope, I will just skip rooting for the Braves this year. The run is over. 1980s, here we come again.

By coco rubio

December 19, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this

good list….one i would highly recommend is THE AVETT BROTHER’S “EMOTIONALISM”…….a brilliant album that should be on everyone’s top 5 of 2007……

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 19, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this

Braves Stink Spoken like a true fair weather fan……. Which bandwagon to you propose to hop on this year?

By David-ATL14

December 19, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this

Reality to coach: the Braves wouldn’t have any interest in those 1b types whether Thorman was there or not.

Braves aren’t going to pay a couple of million or more to a backup one position 1b to start 5-7 games a season.

Wren has already acknowledged that other teams inquired about Thorman during the winter meetings and they like him but he’s far from a guaranteed spot on the roster, Wren’s words not mine.

And furthermore there coach just another bite of reality sandwich for you, if Thorman is moved Braves won’t sign any of those players you mentioned or try to acquire a backup 1b. That spot will be filled from within with Wren mentioing that Pena,Aybar and Diaz can also play 1b. Again Coach, Wren’s words not mine.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 19, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this

Coach: C Brayan Pena , RP Blaine Boyer , RP Chris Resop , RP Phil Stockman , LP Royce Ring , RP Jeff Bennett , RP Buddy Carlyle and last but not least C Javy Lopez.

doesn’t royce ring still have options? and brayan pena?

By BB FAN

December 19, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this

N8,

Furthermore, a cortizone shot gets a player back on the field sooner as well. I guess that should be illegal as well. I’m not saying I am in favor of these drugs, but when used properly, they are very helpful for many things.

When I was young, I had asthma so bad that I could not even walk up stairs, let alone play sports. When I was about 10 or 11, my parents took me to a specialist in Burlington, Mass. This doctor put me on steroids to strengthen my lungs. After that, I was able to play sports and do just about anything any other kid could do. Does that make me a cheat?

Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad that MLB is cracking down on the performance enhancing drugs, however, HGH just helps the healing process, it doesn’t help create muscle like steroids. Now, it is still illegal to use either without a prescription so that’s is where MLB obviously has to crack down.

And I’m not being naive to think that many of the players that used HGH did so during an injury or while trying to hang on an extra few years. I never said that all of them took the HGH for this reason only. I’m sure many others took it and steroids to get that competitive edge. Or to make it to the majors, or to get that 5 year, 75 million dollar contract.

I think it’s ignorant to think every player who has taken these drugs did so just for the unfair advantage. Just like I think it would be ignorant to think that every MLB player has used these drugs.

By BB FAN

December 19, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this

N8,

I never said most guys in the report, I said many of them.

By Oliver Stoned

December 19, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

The Mitchell 86. Good things come in threes they say. 2004, 2007, the Mitchell 86. Quite a few New Yorkers think the number is beyond coincidence. Further proof that the Curse of the Bambino has gone away forever.

Why did a Red Sox guy stop at 86? Mitchell used a Mets guy and a Yankees guy only as much as he needed to get 86 names. The Mitchell report is bloody Red Sox revenge for Buckner in 1986.

It is beyond coincidence that the guy most prominently named in the Mitchell report is Roger Clemens, the fella who, in the prime of his career, in one of the greatest seasons of a pitcher, asked out of that fateful game 6 in 1986 where the ball eventually went through Buckner’s legs.

How many pages does Mitchell primarily dedicate to Clemens? 8. Who famously wore 8 for the Bosox? Yaz.

Clemens was supposed to carry the torch from Yaz. The torch that was passed on from Ted Williams when he retired in 1960 and passed it over to Yaz, whose career started in 1961, and was supposed to follow through to Clemens when his career started in 1984, a year after Yaz retired in 1983.

How many years had it been since the retirement of Yaz and the Red Sox winning the series in 2004? 21 years. What number did Clemens wear as a Red Sox? 21. They did not win until they realized Rocket and Nomar were not worthy of carrying the silly torch, so they rid themselves of said silly torch.

Beyond coincidence as well is that the Rocket’s part of the Mitchell report starts on page 167 and ends on page 175. What happened in ‘67 & ‘75 to the Red Sox?

Clemens has his name mentioned 82 times. When Clemens pimped himself out to the Yankees to win a Series in 1999, how much money did Clemens make in that season as a Yankee? 8.2 million.

The Red Sox would have loved to exact their revenge on the field for 1986 against the Mets but they must have figured they would never get that chance since the Mets choke too much to get to a World Series. So, they did it through the Mitchell report instead.

And, of course, in the report, Mitchell nails one of the most beloved members of the 86 Mets: Lenny Dykstra.

How often was the name of Dykstra mentioned? 28 times. How much money did Clemens make in his last season as a Yankee? 28 million.

Coincidence? Some think not.

Lincoln had a secretary named Kennedy and Kennedy had a secretary named Lincoln.

By BB FAN

December 19, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

N8,

“They all belong in the same category…..AHOLES.”

So you think that because Pettitte, McGwire, Sosa, Palmeiro, Bonds, and Clemens all supposedly used HGH and/or steroids, it makes them a**holes?

What many of those guys do for charities alone removes them from the ahole category. I even think Bonds does a lot of charity work. I may be wrong there, but I know Pettitte, Clemens, Sosa, McGwire all do a lot for charity. They may not all have integrity, but that’s different than being an ahole.

Bonds could be considered an ahole. I witnessed him acting like one. I was in Montreal for a weekend 4 or 5 years ago, and I was walking out of the hotel to go get lunch. I stay at the same hotel (Sheraton Centres) as the players used to in Montreal. Anyway, I saw a little kid, one little kid, not 25, but one go up to Bonds and ask him for an autograph. Bonds turned to him and said “Now why would I want to do that?” and walked away. I was shocked. I could not believe it. So I can agree with you on Bonds. He is an ahole.

But those other guys do a lot of charity work.

By Overlord

December 19, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this

Braveheart i agree with you on your diaz or peńa comment as options to back up tex at 1st.

But man, Thorman thunder is as rare as rain in arizona.

By Shaun

December 19, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

BB FAN, don’t you know that anyone who drinks too much on the weekends or anyone who smoked marijuana in their youth should be labeled an A hole. Doesn’t matter how they treat people or how much work they do for society or how responsible they are later in life or in other aspects of life.

Hey, folks: Bonds is an A hole for entirely different reasons than HGH or steroid use.

By flange1

December 19, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this

Morning all,

The bench is going to be interesting this year. I would love to have Thorman on the bench, but I don’t think we will have room for him.

We have 5 spots on the bench. Diaz/B Jones is one spot, Infante is in spot 2, Catcher is spot 3.

We have 2 spots left. Infante can play CF, but we need another CF backup. We also need another backup IF.

I am thinking that Aybar will be the IF backup for 2B and 3B.

That leaves 1 spot. We need a CF back up and a 1B backup. Diaz can play 1B, so I would think Anderson will be in the 5 spot with stop gap playing CF.

That leaves Blanco, B. Pena and Thorman without a job.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Gil, they had Frank Wren and the UGa president at the AJC yesterday for an informal interview-techniques session, and someone asked about Lopez. Frank was talking about how fluid situations can be, and about how he honestly had not even considered Lopez for the backup job when Bowman and I asked him about it at winter meetings, simply because he wasn’t aware that he’d shown any sort of conditioning or reason to believe Javy would be ready or be serious about the comeback.

Frank said it wasn’t until they got back from winter meetings, when Chino Cadahia saw those stories about Javy and figured he better call Wren and inform him that Javy had actually made surprising progress and really could be a legit contender for the job. I’m just telling you what he said — that it was only AFTER those stories ran that Frank got a call from Chino informing him that he was worth a look.

Now, could Frank have been more forthcoming when we asked in Nashville and said Javy was working out with Chino but that he (GM) hadn’t heard much about what kind of condition he was in? Yes, I think he could’ve been. Wish he would’ve been.

But I can also see where Braves might not want any other teams knowing they were working him out, because we certainly would’ve written it. We don’t usually abide by any sort of “hold the story” edict under any circumstances, certainly not to help out the team hide a guy or whatever.

But Frank could also argue that he was stepping around the answer and that he’d said only that the Braves officials in Nashville hadn’t mentioned Javy during the winter meetings. That might be true. Still, yes I’d like to have known they were working him out.

Don’t know what else to tell you Gil. These things happen every day in what we do. It’s not the black-and-white, everything-up-front world that folks would like it to be. You and I are simply not always going to know exactly what’s going on, because the club and its officials are out to do one thing — promote their club and make it better, not keep us all informed of their inner workings. That’s my job to try to get stuff they don’t want us to know. Unless I ran into Javy (he’s long since had his old number changed) and asked him, I wasn’t going to find that out, that he’d been working out for the Braves.

And you know what? It’s a minor league contract.

By Lew

December 19, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

Shaun-Hope you weren’t serious about that everyone who smoked pot comment. I think you would find quite a number of us here would fall into the a hole category-maybe most of us.

Look y’all-it’s over and nothing of any significance is going to happen to anyone. You will never know the extent or all the names. You can speculate all you want and use whatever logic you might consider to condemn whomever, but nothing will change. If you’re really all that upset, then go volunteer at a drug rehab center and make a REAL statement. Time to get over it.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

COACH, you said “Last but not least Javy Lopez” is out of options.

Of course he is. But he’s not even on the 40-man roster, so it doesn’t matter if he’s out of options. In other words, unless and until Braves put him on the 40-man, they couldn’t “option” him to the minors anyway, even if he had options. See what I mean?

He’d just be assigned to a minor league team, no option required, since he’s not on 40-man.

But I’m sure Braves have agreement with him that he’ll make the team or become a free agent by a certain date.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Not one player from the NFC South in the Pro Bowl. Imagine if not one player from the NL East made the All-Star team? Strange.

Of course, there are two things that would make that impossible: 1. Every MLB team has to have representation in the All-Star Game; and 2. David Wright.

By rich brave

December 19, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Don’t get your shorts in a bunch over Lopez being given a minor league deal. It’s just ONE more move by management to strengthen a perceived trouble spot. Personally I never felt Javy was a particular favorite of Cox’s anyway. Cox seemed to feel Lopez relied too much on his God-given talent and not enough on perfecting his craft. Don’t count on Cox automatically granting Javy any largess just because he has a long-standing past with the skipper. This is just a band-aid at best - like Glavine. And what he can bring to the table education-wise for the team is highly questionable, unlike Glavine.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

Flange1, I agree with your reasoning except for one possible factor you’re not considering: Infante plays all INF positions except 1B. Therefore, when Braves got him, I asked about the other backup utility job, and Wren said it no longer necessarily had to be an Aybar or Prado type who could play SS.

Getting Infante eliminated the requirement of having a guy who could specifically back up SS, which the Braves didn’t have before. But Infante also plays 2B/3B, so neither Aybar nor Prado is assured a job.

By BB FAN

December 19, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

Shaun,

Good point.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

December 19, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

O’Brien , I said out of options and on the bubble. It was a blanket statement referring to all eight players , not just Javy Lopez.

If Lopez makes the team , great. If not , he either ends up in Richmond or elsewhere.

Braveheart , I really don’t understand why you can’t see the logic of having Scott Thorman as Teixeira’s backup. Thorman is young , makes the league minimum and will only benefit from being the understudy of an all-star first baseman during the entire 2008 season.

By Wayne in Utah (when not speeding in Wyoming)

December 19, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

I remember some time ago, I was cruising up a rural highway in Wyoming, when I got pulled over by a Highway Patrol officer. I was probably going 85 in a 65 zone. He asked me if I knew how fast I was going. I said, “I was flying low.” I told him I might be a speeder, but I wasn’t a liar.

If I were a baseball player in the ‘90’s and lots of guys around me were using PED’s, I would probably do the same. If confronted, I don’t think I would come up with some lame azz excuse about doing it to rehab and injury, or I only did it once. I would hope that more player would just tell the truth, cause I ain’t buying their current line of BS.

Also, wouldn’t it be refreshing if some current players that were not named on Mitchell’s report came forward and said, “Hey, I’m not proud now of what I did, but I used PED’s to try to get an edge, and I will own up to it.”

Just my two cents worth

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

Rich Brave, how can signing Lopez, who didn’t play in 2007, who got cut by the Rockies in spring training, and who has signed a $750,000 minor-league contract, be in any way compared to signing Glavine?

Glavine pitched 200 innings and won 13 games last season for the Mets, and in the past three seasons he’s averaged 203 innings while winning 13, 15 and 13 games in that span.

Lopez’s is trying to make a comeback after hitting .251 with eight homers in 2006 and not even making a roster in 2007. They’re not even remotely comparable, whether you insist they are or not.

By Dennis

December 19, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Just read in MLBTR that the Braves were late players in the Dan Haren deal. Any idea what we offered? Came from Rosenthal.

By DAP

December 19, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

N8 There is no way clemens can sue those involved in the mitchell report, even if he never touched the stuff. anybody that sues because o the mitchell report would to prove not only that the accusations were false, but that the drafters of the mitchell report KNEW that it was false and published it anyways. Its called malicious intent. I’m not attacking you, just throwing that out there, so that people know, there’s no way The drafters of the mitchell report can be sued.

lance* youre way off-base with mutemath. they do compare to U2, but they are much more creative and use alot of unique sounds. DOB don;t buy their album in a music store. go see them live and buy it at the merch table afterward. i say that because their live show is an absolute must-see. i saw them twice in one week with the whigs and jonezetta. anyways, great great show.

By Anders

December 19, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

DOB

Of course, there are two things that would make that impossible: 1. Every MLB team has to have representation in the All-Star Game; and 2. David Wright.

Yeah, and you say I’m obsessive about Glavine. I hope you have the stones to bring this over rated matter up to Wright’s face some day. I look foward to that interview. Until then, it’s just all fodder for your posse.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

Oh my: The Mariners are about to sign Carlos Silva to a four-year, $44 MILLION contract. Carlos Silva. Four years, $44 mill.

2007: 13-14, 4.19 ERA, 202 innings, 71 K’s.

2006: 11-15, 5.94 ERA, 180 innings, 70 K’s.

2005: 9-8, 3.44 ERA, 188 innings, 71 K’s.

55-46 career record.

He’s not a bad pitcher. In fact, he’s a pretty good pitcher, and durable by today’s standards.

But $11 mill a year for four years? Hey, the price of doing business keeps climbing, doesn’t it? Wow.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

Coach, I could see Thorman being Tex’s backup again, too. If the season opened tomorrow, he would be. Don’t know that Braves are even trying to trade him, because they wouldn’t get much, compared to what they believe he could still become.

Remember, Thorman’s rep is a guy who struggles in his first year after every promotion, then improves significantly as he gets more comfortable. Granted, this is a much bigger test, doing that in the majors. But it’s what a scout told me at midseason, that he takes a while to get comfortable and make adjustments at each higher level. And yes, he did look a lot better down the stretch in his limited role.

Is it ideal? I don’t think so. But Braves aren’t going to spend a lot of money for a backup who’ll play so very rarely at 1B.

By RK

December 19, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

TO: Mr Wren FR: 7 million Braves Fans RE: backup catcher

I hear Johnny Bench is available…who…even in 2007…is better than Javy…defensively as well as offensively… How can you even entertain this idea even as a minor leaguer??? If you also mess up signing Teixeira long term, I’m sending you all my Braves crap since 1970. Liberty Media wants to spend as they have publically said. DO THE DEED. and don’t spend more money signing another “old feel good in the media” legacy like Glavine…

By DAP

December 19, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

has anyone seen this rookie card of barry bonds ? this is on one of my friend’s facebook pages. bonds sure put on a lot of weight.

By bruce

December 19, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Dave, do you think the Mariners are doing it for the innings? Pretty solid numbers there and alot of innings for fair poor and good era years. Thanks, Bruce

By DAP

December 19, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

that link may not take you to it. try this one

By McFann

December 19, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, regarding your 5:16 post, (I know this is late, but I’ve just now been scanning the blog.)

I don’t know about Escobar being a leader of this club. Fancoeur, maybe, but Escobar doesn’t even speak English. And he’s a little cocky at times. We don’t need one of our leaders being cocky.

A leader is someone who shoulders the blame for a loss; someone who doesn’t take credit for a win; someone who doesn’t make excuses for bad performance; someone like:

Brian McCann!!

The only problem is that he doesn’t seem to like talking with the media. But that’s understandable. Bobby Cox doesn’t like the media, either, and he’s the manager. McCann doesn’t like talking to people because he’s humble, a great trait to have by all means. That’s why he’d make a good team leader…maybe when he’s just a little older…or when Chipper retires.

By N8

December 19, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

DAP

Couldn’t Clemens sue the trainer guy (forgot his name already), that “testified” to actually injecting Clemens himself?

I mean, to me it’s either one of two things:

1) Clemens is lying

or

2) The trainer lied in his testimony.

If mean, seriously, if I testified to the FBI that I saw Stinky molest teenage boys, and then he proceeded to get arrestef for that crime, and his name was run through the mud, and it turns out I was lying, couldn’t he sue my azz off?

SOMEBODY could get sued for false testimony, or am I wrong?

Braveheart

Thank you for your 8:03 post. I’m glad SOMEBODY ELSE “gets it”.

Pettitte and Vina (along with Paul Byrd) are only “admitting” to the BARE MINIMUM, as to make themselves look like the “good teamate” by trying to get back on the field.

If what these guys were doing, was ONLY to get back on the field, why didn’t they go to a legitimate doctor (NOT crooked dentists and trainers), to get their fix of HGH?

Why not go directly to Bud Selig and say “in order for me to help get back on the field, since it isn’t illegal, could I get a get out of jail free card for using this stuff?”

If I have pain following a surgery, my DOCTOR will perscribe some narcotic pain medication. But when that runs out, if I go to the “street” to get some more…..THAT’S ILLEGAL. No matter how much charity work I do. :-)

Those guys are A-holes for LYING not for using. They are all cowards, IMO.

Who’s the ONLY guy who’s come out looking good in all this steroid mess? That would be Jason Giambi. Why is that? Because for the most part he sincerely seems to be remorseful. He admitted to doing “that stuff”, and has said how sorry he is.

When I see Pettitte, all I see is a guy trying to side-step the ACTUAL conversation. Make NO MISTAKE about it. He hasn’t admitted to ANYTHING.

By DAP

December 19, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

DOB on those carlos silva stas…wow. 71 strikeouts? in comparison, chuck james struck out 116 in 160 innings. thats almost 50 more strikeouts in 40 less innings.

i wonder what chuck james would get as a free agent? judgeing by carlos silva, id say like $15mil per year at least.

By Mac

December 19, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

Braves inquired on Haren http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7581498

By Steamboat

December 19, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

Those suggesting that the Mitchell report was a waste of time should read THIS NY POST article.

Apparently, the players’ union has agreed to meet with MLB to discuss reopening the CBA to implement Mitchell’s recommendations; and 2 Congressional committees have scheduled hearings next month, and players may be subpoenaed.

By stephn

December 19, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

Mute Math is fantastic….ridiculous live show…powerful vocals…great insturmentation…worth an itunes download.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

For some perspective of how the price of pitching has risen, consider that Tim Hudson was 29 and had the second-highest winning percentage among active pitchers (behind Pedro) when Hudson signed a four-year, $47 million contract extension in March 2005, a deal that included a fifth-year club option for 2010.

It was a below-market contract, but still — Hudson had been the winningest pitcher in the AL over the previous five seasons when he signed that deal.

Hudson’s previous five seasons with Oakland: 20-6, 4.14 ERA in 2000; 18-9, 3.37 ERA in ‘01; 15-9, 2.98 ERA in ‘02; 16-7, 2.70 ERA in ‘03; 12-6, 3.53 ERA in ‘04. He pitched over 200 innings in four of those five seasons, including seasons of 235 innings, 238 innings and 240 innings.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

DAP, you can see where plenty of teams might be interested in James if the Braves were to decide to trade him. They’d get plenty in return. Not saying they’re trying or will try, but all they have to do is let teams know he’s available this spring, and the offers would start coming quickly.

Keep in mind, they got Rafael Soriano for Horacio Ramirez.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

Anders, this is a Braves blog, not a news story calling Wright overrated. In fact, I think he’s a damn good player. We’re just poking fun on a blog.

Now I’d suggest going to a Mets blog if you’re offended, OK? Or just keep being offended, because it’s not going to stop.

By David-ATL14

December 19, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

The Thorman’s of MLB are really where a GM can prove his worth,IMO.

Trading for a Tex type or Haren is just a matter of having enough pieces and being able to come up with a match.

Thorman and players of his ilk present an interesting dilema. Will he imporove like he did at his stops in the minors? and show that he can contribute? Will he continue to struggle in 08 further depressing his already limited value?

I know some think he will improve and others namely Bowman and his sources think Thorman has hit the end of the road as far as improving goes anyway.

Somewhat like the Davies situation after the 06 season, as bad as it was, he still had value based on his work in the minors. After his 07 first half that value was dropping rapidly. Did JS wait too late with Davies? or give up to early?

Thorman presents the same type of dilema. Though Thorman has never been considered as good a prospect as Davies was in his career.

Intersting stuff for all GM’s and Wren in particular.

Just a guess on my part but I could see Thorman or Prado being added to the James package when/if Hampton is healthy in Spring.

By rich brave

December 19, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

O’B - wan:

The comparison was in the educational value Glavine brings to the team which I don’t believe Lopez can. Did I phrase it badly, or did you just not comprehend the gist of my point?

By Anders

December 19, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

DOB

Oh, we’re back to having fun? OK, because when I poke fun, I’m called an obsessive idiot. Or is just not funny when it’s said about a Brave?Just trying to keep up.

BTW- I have been to the Mets blogs but nobody talks about the Braves on them. So I come here for my Braves news.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 19, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

DOB Thank you for the explanation. I don’t expect any organization to share their trade secrets. I just felt Frank Wren was not being upfront with you. It comes down to a credibility issue whether it is intentional or not.

I learned long ago to take it all with a grain of salt.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

I know it’s hard keeping up sometimes, Anders, but hes, we’re back to poking fun now. See, it’s a Braves blog, so most folks are more inclined to make fun of the rival teams than their own team.

Oh, and right now, you probably don’t need to worry about missing too much Braves news here if you stay away a day or two and blog with Mets fans on the Mets blogs. That’s because this is relatively slow part of the year for most teams, especially those who, unlike the Mets, have already taken care of their major offseason needs. Got all that? OK, cool.

Wait, this just coming in on the news ticker… what’s this…. oh, great news: David Wright has offered to step in and negotiate a settlement in the TV writers strike.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Rich Brave, I think you phrased it less than clearly, but that might just be my fault for the misinterpretation. Now I understand what you meant. Thanks, didn’t mean to jump on you.

By cricket

December 19, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

By Shaun December 19, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this BB FAN, don’t you know that anyone who drinks too much on the weekends or anyone who smoked marijuana in their youth should be labeled an A hole. Doesn’t matter how they treat people or how much work they do for society or how responsible they are later in life or in other aspects of life.

Wow, I learn something new everyday on my favorite blog. So if someone cheated in their profession using even illegal means (steroids used in the way by these players is illegal, even if MLB did not have a rule against it in past), that person is not an Ahole if he fulfills any of the following conditions: - they treat people well - they do some work for society - they are responsible later in life or in other aspects of life.

Thanks for the enlightenment. Wish this was not limited to the profession of playing baseball.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

December 19, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

Anders, loosen up, dude. Even you have to admit that Wright gets way overexposed. You’d think this guy is the second coming of Mike Schmidt which he is not….at least yet. Yes, Wright is a great player but he isn’t as great as he is made out to be. And some folks are still upset about the Gold Glove. They need to get over it but Mets fans need to admit he didn’t deserve it and if he played for almost any other NL team he wouldn’t have.

By geauxbraves2000

December 19, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

I remember many years ago Michael Jordan signed what I believe was a $10M contract. I could not fathom that kind of money for 1 year. Nowadays, $10M barely gets a decent player. Wow.

Geaux Braves!!

By flange1

December 19, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for the response on the bench! I guess that means that right now we know:

Bench spot 1 - Diaz/B Jones platoon Diaz can play 1B, LF, RF B. Jones can play LF, RF and CF in a pinch

Bench spot 2 - Infante Infante can play 3B, SS, 2B, CF

Bench spot 3 - catcher back up Catcher only unless in B. Pena

We have 2 spots to consider. Your response indicates that Aybar and or Prado don’t have a spot locked in.

Wouldn’t you think one of those spots would be used for a secondary IF back-up and one either a 1B backup or another OF specifically a CF backup?

By Braveheart

December 19, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

McFann Frenchy is a born leader. Dude was born to be the captain of whatever he decided to do in life. Even Peter Gammons in the article he just wrote mentioned how Frenchy’s energy helps his teammates. Hopefully, his baseball performance will catch up and justify it.

McCann seems to be one of those guys who will lead by example but also lead with the close relationships he builds with his teammates where they listen to him. Things like he did at the All Star break where he said Edgar should have been there and not him probably makes his teammates want to go through a wall for McCann.

As for Yunel, I dunno. I’m just a fan but the guy seems to have an arrogance about him that could go either way. It could make him a leader or make him selfish. But the hardnosed mature way he plays the game could make him a leader.

I don’t know why you have a problem with somone being cocky. If you’re not cocky in what you do in life, you most likely will suck at it. You shouldn’t believe that you are better than others but you also shouldn’t believe that others are better than you either.

Having played on quite a few teams in my life, don’t ever believe that these guys can’t speak English. They can. They usually just have not reached the comfort point of being able to speak it publicly where they might mispeak and humiliate themselves. The same pride issues that drive these players to be the best and to sometimes take steroids also causes many Spanish speaking players not to have their pride wounded by misspeaking and having people laugh at them.

But most of them know English well to talk smack with their teammates and know it well enough to be a leader on a team or in anything they do in life.

Ichiro for example is someone who still uses his translator when talking to the media but from many accounts is a clown in his interactions with his teammates.

But, also, as in any endeavor in life, the guy who speaks the least is usually the best leader so long as he speaks up when he has to. The so called leaders who talk the most usually are gasbags who need to shut the hell up. Guess I’ll never be a leader.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 19, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

I just heard Bill Parcells talking about the Falcons job that Arthur Blank has offered him, and he’s already named his first choice for the head coach: DAVID WRIGHT!! Woah!!

By uga-brave

December 19, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

braveheart,

bluto from animal house, now that was a leader.

By Efrim

December 19, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

Rosenthal reports…

The Braves and Rockies were among the teams that showed late interest in Haren, but neither club stood a chance of matching the Diamondbacks’ offer. The Reds were persistent but also could not get in the mix, particularly when they would not discuss outfielder Jay Bruce. Several other clubs do not value right-hander Homer Bailey as highly as the Reds do in trade proposals. …

Good to hear the Braves seeing what it might of taken to get Haren. I figure Schafer, Lillibridge, Jurrjens and who knows what else. Way too much. But acquiring a front of the rotation starter will be the topic for next winter….. or at least it should be. Although who will even be available?? And is it even worth trading a boatload of talent like in the Tex deal? Probably not. How do you solve the problem? Hope to god Cole Rohrbough and Tommy Hanson pan out.

By DAP

December 19, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

McFann agreed on mccann having great leadership potential.

By McFann

December 19, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

Being cocky isn’t a good thing per se. Being cocky can get you in trouble. Nobody likes a person who goes around boasting all the time (not that Yunel does that). I’ve always known people who like people that are humble. No, you shouldn’t think that you stink at what you do, that won’t get you anywhere for sure. But you also won’t get to far if you think you’re tops. If you think you’re great, and you’re only mediocre, you might ask for big bucks, but teams aren’t going to want to pay a lot for someone who only thinks he’s good. So then what’ll that player do, eh?

McCann leading by example is exactly what I meant! You hit the nail right on the head, my friend. And see, his teammates like him ‘cause he’s humble!!

By ObiWanKobe

December 19, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

2007 Music addition!!!

Kate Nash - Made of Bricks

Kate Nash (born 6 July 1987) is an English[1] singer songwriter from Harrow, Middlesex[2]. She has been compared to Lily Allen because of their storytelling lyrics, the dry sense of humour that fuels their songs as well as distinctive London accents.

By DAP

December 19, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

N8 i dont think the trainer can be held accountable because he is not responsible for the report being written and published. at least i THINK thats the case.

you can SAY something about someone, but if you arent personally giving it to a substantial audience, it doesn’t constitute libel. for instance, i can say anything i want to on this blog about any public figure, and i wouldnt have to worry about anything, because my audience on this blog is tiny. if i say something, and a news source (DOB, for instance) decides to repost it or print it and run, he first is responsible to make sure the facts check out.

its also important to remember that the laws on libel and slander are different for public figures than they are for private citizens.

i could be wrong on some of these areas, because im not an expert on the subject. these are just a few principles i recall from my communication ethics class in college. i should probably find my textbook and refresh a little.

By BB FAN

December 19, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

cricket,

I think there’s a lot of things that would make a person an a*******hole. But using HGH or steroids to play baseball is not one of them. I would consider them to have very little integrity if any at all. I might consider them arrogant and stubborn to think they would not eventually get caught. Or for not admitting it.

But a real a*******hole is somebody who who brings harm upon others. Now, I know some will claim that the PE Drug users take jobs away from other players, but I consider that lacking integrity. A rapist, a murderer, a child abuser all come to mind as a*******holes. Osama Bin Laden is an a*******hole. Saddam was an a*******hole.

By DAP

December 19, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

Escobar kinda reminds me of Jeter with the way he acts. Confident and good at what he does. Jeter is a pretty good leader, so i think Escobar could be to.

By JimD

December 19, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Lew I got the Francouer pic today. Dude, you rock. It is hanging on my office wall next to my litho of George Brett - my favorite player of all time.

Art Yes, Javy has the arm for LF but not the legs, glove, or eyes. That would be scary with him out there, he might hurt himself!

DOB I agree that the Braves’ roster will be a little different when they open in Washington on 3/30. I think they will add a lefthander, possibly pulling the trigger on the Fuentes deal - maybe involving CJ.

Also, I think someone not currently on the roster will start in CF. That one should be interesting.

I think signing Javy was a good gamble. Who knows, he might be OK. Of course he can play a little 1B too. BUT NOT LF!!!

I don’t think that BOTH Prado and Aybar will make the team, but only one of them, most likely Prado. And I would like to see Pena stick too, since he has worked so hard to learn some additional positions. He now has the kind of positional flexibility that BC likes. If they do keep him, I hope then they go with 2 catchers.

February 15 … HURRY UP AND GET HERE!!!!

By N8

December 19, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

BB Fan

For the most part, I agree with you.

I probably should’ve used a different word. Integrity would’ve been a better choice.

But I don’t buy one second of Clemens or Pettitte’s testimony and claims of minimal use.

Since Pettitte went PUBLIC in the past claiming to be embarrassed that his name was mentioned, and at the time of making those statements, he was LYING THROUGH HIS TEETH, (based on him now admitting he used in 2002 - the interview, according to Jim Rome was in 2004), that is enough of a reason for me to clasify him as an a-hole.

The fact that you and I might differ on what constitutes an A-hole, is insignificant. I think we essentially agree on WHAT he is. We’re just using different terms to describe it.

You claim that unless the inflict bodily harm on somebody (rape, murder, child abuse, etc…), they shouldn’t be classified as A-holes.

Fair enough. But what about the bodily harm they do to young kids (either in HS or in the minor leagues) that are looking up to them, or think they need to do the same, to keep up? What about the harm they are doing to themselves? Doesn’t that count?

Just asking.

DAP

I’m no lawyer, but you sound like you know what you’re talking about. So maybe I’m wrong.

But at the very LEAST, Clemens could come out and emphatically deny the allogations, and claim that he WON’T HESITATE to sue anybody, that can be sued, for false accusations. Even if there is no ground to stand on…..at least act like your pizzed off about it.

Besides, all I was doing was relaying what Smoltz said HE WOULD DO, if it were him, and it wasn’t true.

By DAP

December 19, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

If Chuck James be would worth well over $11mil per year as a free agent, why would we trade him for fuentes? is fuentes worth more than $11mil per year? NO!!! bad trade! if trade James to the rockies, we are gonna need to get back alot more than Fuentes.

By NCBravesFan

December 19, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

Efrim Good points on Haren. The Braves will hopefully have the luxury of seeing how Jurrjens steps up this year and evaluate their pitching needs next winter.

Haren was outstanding in the first half of the year, and tailed off quite a bit as the season wore on. He’s a really good pitcher, but I don’t know if the Braves trading for him makes sense given what they would have to give up to get him.

For my money, Bedard would have been a better target if that’s the way the Braves wanted to go. Dude was lights out after about June of last year.

By TheBigDawg

December 19, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

DOB Ken Rosenthal said that the Braves made a late play for Dan Haren before the D-backs closed the deal. Any word on what they were offering? Love the Javy signing. Could be a nice bat off the bench at no risk if he doesn’t pan out.

By Lew

December 19, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Anders-Maybe you’re just an obsessive idiot.

By Steamboat

December 19, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

N8, just for the record, Clemens DID come out and pretty adamantly deny the allegations.

Since I believe he’s dirty as dirt, I just assume he’s taken this public stance because he believes there is no more evidence against him - he’ll not be “convicted” based on the Mitchell report. Since it’s legal to lie to the press, what’s he got to lose?

But if he’s subpoenaed, whether by Congress or a federal court, that’s when he’s really got to tell the truth, because those institutions don’t look kindly on perjury.

If it reaches that point, he’ll be doing his best Marion Jones imitation, crying and admitting all, to avoid prison time.

By JimD

December 19, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

DAP

Starter/releiver salary disparity notwithstanding, I agree CJ for Fuentes straight up is not a good trade. That is why I said “possibly involving.” I don’t think a deal involving Fuentes or CJ, the same deal or different deals, would be a one for one proposition.

By AdirondackDave

December 19, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

Man, things are slow. Would love to see some winter league games on tv. Fidel could probably balance his budget if he contracted Cuban baseball with TBS or somebody… anybody, even the shopping network. Or David Wright’s address to the United Nations. I may die of boredom waiting for ST… Would give the Braves $500, just for the entertainment value, if they would get that hot-shot young Baltimore starter before the end of the month.

By cricket

December 19, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

BBFan,

It’s cool dude. I love this blog where we discuss music, bbq, scope of humanity that can be called AHole and yes, baseball :) I guess we just have to agree to disagree on the characteristics of people who can be called AHoles and that’s ok with me. I just don’t like it when some people are given benefit of doubt in some areas of life due to their sort of good deeds in other areas. And I think it was really Shaun’s post that made me make my comment in that respect. Anyway, water under the bridge as far as I am concerned.

By BB FAN

December 19, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

N8,

“But what about the bodily harm they do to young kids (either in HS or in the minor leagues) that are looking up to them, or think they need to do the same, to keep up? What about the harm they are doing to themselves? Doesn’t that count?”

I do see your point there a little. But to me, it’s a parents job to make sure a child knows what’s right and wrong. Hopefully the child looks up to his parents as well. And hopefully his parents stress that HGH, steroids and other drugs are not to be used unless they are prescribed for them. And no matter what, not to abuse any drug evn if a doctor will prescribe it.

I know I will be instructing my son (He’s only 6 months old right now) to be the best person possible. And that means to play by the rules and laws.

As far as harming themselves, that’s their perogative. If a player wants to take that chance, there’s not much MLB can do if they have no proof. Hopefully, a test for HGH will be created soon. Even the blood test isn’t always accurate. And I would not want to subject players to a test that is not accurate.

By Lew

December 19, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

DAP-I think that’s the point of ll this. So many are in such a hurry to jettison Chuck James, yet they fail to take into account the price for replacement parts.

Hey Shaun-isn’t that what VORP is all about? And you thought I never paid attention.

By MGL

December 19, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

There is a Q&A with Chuck James on Braves.com

By McFann

December 19, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

I’m glad to have read that someone (DAP) agrees with me on McCann. I mean seriously, wouldn’t y’all rather have somebody who’s humble lead the team in the future than someone who’s cocky?

But I think Escobar’s going to mature. He’s still young yet. (I mean to lead the team. I mean, he’s older than me.) He may never have an attitude like McCann, but like I said, he’ll mature. Perhaps someday he can be our outspoken leader, and B-Mac can lead by example. (Course, Esco’s gonna hafta wait for Chipper to retire.)

Frenchy’s a born leader? Care to elaborate on that, Braveheart?

By DAP

December 19, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

N8 you sound like you know what you’re talking about.

wow. i think thats the first time anyone has ever said that to me. would you mind printing out a copy of that post, signing it and sending to me so i can show my wife? she’ll get a kick out of it. :-)

By AdirondackDave

December 19, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Bedard, that’s the guy. I’d give up James, Lillibridge, and about 4 other guys if that’s what it took. Sometimes it’s ok to overpay (especially when it’s somebody elses money). I want a serious run for the WS now, while we have Tex and Glavine. With Bedard we should win the NL pennant and be strong enough to compete with Boston and Detroit. Maybe that would give Tex some incentive to stay. Same for Glavine if he pitches ok this year. Just trying to stay awake here, folks.

By Anders

December 19, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

Lew

How come every time I put a post in DOB’s ear you come out his rear?

Do you really think he needs your back up or do you do this as a way of creating a sense of self importance?

By DonCoburleone

December 19, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

DOB any idea what the Braves may have offered to Oakland for Haren? Or was it more of just a phone call asking Beane what it would take to get a deal done and Beane saying - uhhh, not gonna happen with the players you have? I would think it is the latter. Because based on what he got from Arizona, it seems as if he was looking for 2-3 minor leaguers who are ready or 1 year from being ML ready PLUS 2-3 minor leaguers in High A or Double A who are a few years from the majors… Based on that criteria, I seriously doubt we could have gotten it done without completely gutting our already depleted farm system…

By BB FAN

December 19, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

As much as I would like to see the Braves get Fuentes, I would not give up Chuck James for him unless we were getting a young starter in the deal. A guy like James is likely to only improve, especially with Glavine on the team this year.

I think the Braves will need all of their starters this year. I would be surprised if Hampton makes 15 starts this year. Jurrjens may have potential, but he is young and has less than 10 starts in the big leagues. He may need a little more time before he reaches that potential. Bennett has very little experience as does Reyes.

I just think James will be an important part of the Braves success this year.

By BB FAN

December 19, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

cricket,

Shaun was referring to my post. What you copied and pasted was actually my original post so that’s why I responded to you.

But anyway, I was just explaining my interpretaion of an a*******hole. I wasn’t trying to be confrontational or anything like that.

I mean everybody has a different opinion on what makes somebody and a*******hole or not.

By Lew

December 19, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Anders-No, I don’t think he needs my backup. He’s just as capable as I am of seeing that a person is an idiot and quite capable of apprising them of the fact. I just don’t like you all on my own. I actually formed my own opinion of you long before DOB ever acknowledged your existence. Is that good enough for you? I just agree with his terminology. Obsessive Idiot. Yeah, that about sums it up-at least in English. Couldn’t improve on the description, is all. If someone else would care to translate, I bet we could call you an Obsessive Idiot in several languages.

Now I want to ask you a serious question and would like a serious answer. If I were to go on a Mets’ Blog and talk the trash about Pedro or Wright, that you talk about Glavine and other Braves on this Braves’ Blog, do you think the New Yawkahs would treat me as nicely as we treat you? Seriously now. Would they? I don’t think so. Obsessive Idiot is hardly the worst they would call me. If you don’t like the responses we have for you or the terminology we use to describe you and your (to us) meaningless thoughts, we have the perfect solution-Go post on a Mets’ blog and leave us alone. Wearing that persecution complex on your sleeve is hardly attractive. Either learn how to take it like a man or leave. Choice is yours. Obsessive Idiot. Yeah, I like the sound of that. DOB could have won a Wurlitzer for Descriptions if he still had some wall space.

As far as self importance. Want to put it up to a blog vote on which of us might be considered more important? Nah, didn’t think so. BTW, has anyone told you that you’re an Obsessive Idiot?

By cricket

December 19, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

McFann, I’m with you on McCann. But Escobar will have to improve his english to become a leader, as our GM’s name is not Minaya :)

Anders, It really pains me, but have to give you props on that ear - rear post. I would declare it the funniest post of this blog but we are still waiting for David Wright’s surefire most funniest greatest post ever.

By rich brave

December 19, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Dave:

The band-aid reference is what set you off I’m sure. But fearless leader, Glavine can only be a TEMPORARY fix for our LONG-TERM questions regarding SP - a band-aid. He’s still good for the short-term and I believe a very good answer for lack of stable SP for the next one to three years. At the point when Glavine and Smoltz are done, the management hopes moves already made will bare fruit (Jurrjens) and our farn system will come through like the early ‘90’s. They have to have faith in the system. Otherwise just buy what you need like the Red Sox or Yankees. At some point in the not too distant future there must be a reliable winner like Hudson or there will be real trouble for the Braves winning abilities. I have called for the rebuilding to begin now rather than later through the acquisition of Bedard, Haran, Santana or some other solid SP. Like you have mentioned today on other posts, the price of pitching just keeps going up. I was thinking a long-term deal now would look relatively cheap in three years, but I’m just postulating. You’re the man getting paid to get the inside poop. So if you don’t think it necessary this year to accomplish that end, I’ll lay down and wait. Hopefully I’ll be here in three years to see the end of an era.

By N8

December 19, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

DAP

“i think thats the first time anyone has ever said that to me. would you mind printing out a copy of that post, signing it and sending to me so i can show my wife?”

WOW! I believe, I’ve officially just had my first autograph request.

:-)

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 19, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Bottom line is ….. It is good to have options…. Fact, Braves have more pitchers than they have places to put them. This is a good thing but maybe Acosta starts in AAA this year because he has options left and Boyer doesn’t. Same with Joey Devine. He has an option left and none for Jeff Bennett.

Since this is the silly season and we can make wild speculations, I would not be surprised to see Buddy Carlyle packaged with someone like Thorman to another team for a couple of prospects. It sometimes comes down to just making room for the folks you feel can help you win now.

Gregor Blanco may be doing everything he can to be taken seriously as an answer for the Braves in centerfield. He put up very good numbers in winter ball and showed more pop in his bat. He has decent speed but still needs to work on his base stealing skills. Of course that could be said for a lot of the Braves.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Rich Brave, I agree with you it’d be better to do it now than later, and I’m sure Braves felt same way when they were calling about Haren. If they could have gotten him or Bedard without giving up what they deemed too much of the future at other positions, they would’ve done it.

It’s a catch-22 in that regard — you satisfy need for a starter in the future, yet open holes in left field and middle of your rotation for future. Gotta think of all those things when you’re on a budget.

But I agree, obviously, that Glavine is a one-year or, at most, two-year fix.

By McFann

December 19, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah, cricket, I’m not saying I want Escobar to be our leader (‘cause, to be honest, I don’t think I do). I was just trying to make a point.

So far I have three supporters in this (if Braveheart counts). This is good. Does anybody disagree? And if you do, WHY THE HECK WOULD YOU?!

DOB, you need a format for doing bold italic.

Hey, Braveheart, how long will it take to tell me why Frenchy’s a born leader? ; )

By Anders

December 19, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Lew

As far as self importance. Want to put it up to a blog vote on which of us might be considered more important? Nah, didn’t think so.

Did you just challenge me to a blog vote?

Sorry, I’m trying to think of something funny to write but just the sound of a “Blog Vote” has me laughing at my desk.

What are you, in the 8th grade?

By AdirondackDave

December 19, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Lew - ‘effing jack*ss comes to mind for Anders… but I’m no wordsmith.

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

DonC, others: No, I don’t know what Braves offered for Haren or if they even got to that point. The way Ken worded that, Braves and Rockies and other teams might merely have gotten word of what Arizona was giving up, or some idea of what they were giving up, and then called Beane and said, would you be more interested in these players we have available? They might have heard it was only two or three prospects Arizona was giving up, instead of six, and then called and asked Beane about it and been told otherwise. Just don’t know.

Teams call each other every day, especially in this internet era when so much is leaked, accurate or not. Teams want to know if they might get in on something at the last minute, after hearing a player might be going for less than what they thought he’d have gone for. Sometimes, that information is totally bogus and they quickly learn as much.

I’ll eventually find out, hopefully soon, if Braves actually made an offer or just called. Just out of curiosity.

By DAP

December 19, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

rich brave bare fruit

careful…this blog is rated PG-13.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 19, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

BB FAN — i agree with your thoughts on chuck james. i’ve said before on the blog that i think it’d be a mistake to trade chuck away this offseason because he could be an important piece to the future when one or some of our veterans are no longer around (hampton, glavine, or smoltz).

you said, “A guy like James is likely to only improve.” i’m not trying to be argumentative, but why do you say that? what is it about him that makes you say he’s likely to only improve? i thought the same about kyle davies a year ago. chuck will have glavine in the dugout with him, and hopefully that will help. is it that he had a poor year and seemingly has nowhere to go but up? because i can see him continuing to struggle, not effectively coming up with a third pitch, etc.

By flange1

December 19, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

McFann,

Not to try to speak for Braveheart, but the Frenchy being a born leader is not that hard to see.

Frenchy has a magnetic personality. You can see that from watching him interact with the other players. People are drawn to him. Same for John Kennedy, Bill Clinton and others that are said to be born leaders.

McCann is more quiet and one of the guys.

No problem with that, that is just the way he is. Don’t get too perturbed that McCann is not being called a born leader.

Maybe if McCann could lose some weight, but ……….

By DAP

December 19, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

idiota obsessivo is Portuguese.

By pc

December 19, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

DOB, From Ken Rosenthal’s latest article.

Are the Braves still pursuing a top line pitcher even after the Glavine signing.

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7581498

“The Braves and Rockies were among the teams that showed late interest in Haren, but neither club stood a chance of matching the Diamondbacks’ offer. The Reds were persistent but also could not get in the mix, particularly when they would not discuss outfielder Jay Bruce. Several other clubs do not value right-hander Homer Bailey as highly as the Reds do in trade proposals. …”

By uncle peepot

December 19, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

DOB mentioned the Braves have spme interest in Brian Fuentes,that would be good to get him.Does anyone know what the Rockies are asking for him?

By DAP

December 19, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

обсессивнофобический идиот

thats russian. i cant say it, it looks like it has a couple of 6’s in it. you getting all this anders?

By David O'Brien

December 19, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

pc, thanks. it’s been linked or referred to multiple times today already.

By Bay Area Steve

December 19, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Adirondack Dave,

Beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.

By Lew

December 19, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Now Anders-If I’m in eighth grade, you must still be in kindergarten. You never answered my question about what treatment I could expect on a Mets’ blog, now did you?

No, as far as a blog vote-you were the one stressing MY self importance. Merely wanted to point out to you where YOU were and what that response might be. However, I do have a nice Chipper drawing. Should I offer it as a Wurlitzer for the Denizen who comes up with the most apt description of you and your Obsessively Idiotic posts? What do you think THAT response might be? I doubt you would be any happier. Believe that. I think I can safely say that I’m not the only one here who holds your crap in low esteem. Poor, poor persecuted person. Braves’ fans just don’t like you, do they? Maybe those important clients you service like you, but Braves’ fans? Not so much.

By McFann

December 19, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

Dang, F 1, Some people might be drawn to Francoeur, but I sure ain’t. I have to say, though, he’s more of a born leader than Bill Clinton. Francoeur said he’s a George W. Bush fan, so there you go.

I’m not perturbed that McCann isn’t being called a born leader. And, dummy, you don’t have to be skinny to be a leader. Besides, I saw him working out on the field before a game once. He can touch his toes without bending his knees!!

By Lew

December 19, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

Daybed-You’re assuming that Chuck’s 11 win season last year was poor. Not sure that most of MLB would agree with you.

By uga-brave

December 19, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

well thats assuming that he can actually see his toes.

By rich brave

December 19, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

DAP:

Had printed “bear” but large fuzzy aninmal is what I see in my mirror so I corrected my post. OOPS.

By McFann

December 19, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

BTW, the vote count for leadership is still 3-1 in my favor. (That’s not counting my vote.)

My vote for the most important person on the blog? Well it ain’t Thirsty Horse…

By flange1

December 19, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

McFann,

I think you need to change your screen name to

TREBOR

Reasoning being you are the absolute anti-Robert. He absolutely hates one person and you absolutely love one person….

By McFann

December 19, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

Lew, I’ll speak for Anders:

There are no Mets blogs. They don’t know how to use computers.

By BB FAN

December 19, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Daybed Wagmoe,

I think James will improve because he dealt with injuries last year…and still was 11-10 with a ERA a little over 4.00. He also will likely improve his pitches and maybe even add a pitch. I heard he was working on another pitch last year. Hopefully he can be comfortable with it to throw it occationally in games. The guy is only like 25 years old as well. Many pitchers don’t start to reach their potential until they are like 26 or 27.

By DAP

December 19, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

Lew, i want in on that possible wurlitzer.

i’d call anders’ posts craptastically crapulent.

or traginomically pitifulencent.

or stupinomic stupositories.

By rich brave

December 19, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

LEW:

How many of those 11 wins wore out middle and/or late relief who had to hold a lead, leaving the team vulnerable the next game?? James was spotty and he needs to improve to be an answer rather than a promise of one. Hopefully, Glavine’s presence will help.

By Anders

December 19, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

Lew

Now Anders-If I’m in eighth grade, you must still be in kindergarten.

Clever stuff. Apparently your writer is on strike as well?

By Lew

December 19, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

McFann-I’m certainly NOT saying that I’m the most important on the blog. I would NEVER claim that and don’t vaguely consider myself to be such-just held in higher esteem than the Moron Mets Fan whose skin is so thin and who takes offense so easily. Anyone who takks trash about the Braves on a Braves’ blog can’t be overly intelligent, now, can they?

By rich brave

December 19, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

And the laugh of the day goes to McFANN. “There are no METS blogs…”

By DAP

December 19, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

im not sure of the rules, but if i cant make up words there’s no chance ill ever win a wulitzer.

By Lew

December 19, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

McFann-You could well be correct. I’ve never checked, as I am a Braves’ fan and don’t really care what Mets’ fans think.

By DAP

December 19, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Anders that last post of yours was traginomically pitiflecent.

that really has a ring to it, doesnt it?

By Lew

December 19, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

Rich Brave-What you say is SOMEWHAT true. Chuck, due to injuries to our staff late last spring, was forced into the Number 3 starter’s role. He is NOT (at least at this time) a #3 starter. However, a #5 starter who goes 11-10 with an ERA under league average, who pitches 161 innings is the proverbial horse of a different color. Context, Dude, context. And as I said, your view of the situation would certainly NOT be the same as MLB front office people. Most ML teams would love to have a #5 guy with Chuck’s CV.

By Anders

December 19, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

Lew I’m not sure if you’re aware of this but McFann is having a Blog Vote without your consent. I don’t even think he’s old enough to vote.

He’s having the most likely to be a leader vote. You’re planning a most popular vote. Gee whiz I feel like we’re on the yearbook committee.

By Lew

December 19, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

DAP-Not true. You are quite capable of coming up with the requisite words. There are no rules involved. Give it a try. If nothing else, I have a cousin with the same initials as you. Never can tell-that may be all you need.

By Braveheart

December 19, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

McFann, what is it with you and Frenchy? It’s like you are so blinded in your love for McCann, that you try to make Frenchy out to be his rival when they are really good friends. Anytime someone says something good about Frenchy, you get all upset and think McCann has somehow been slighted.

Whaddya mean you want me to elaborate on how Frenchy is a born leader? I don’t think it needs much elaboration at all but …….

When the Mitchell report came out, which Brave could DOB get on the telephone? Frenchy.

Who is the union rep for the team at 23 years old? Frenchy.

At 22 years old and the youngest member of the team, which player got in Arod’s face and essentially called Arod a douchebag straight to Arod’s face for the way Princess Arod berated some clubhouse kid who dared to bring Princess Arod the wrong damn sandwich? Frenchy.

By Ace

December 19, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

I canNOT believe that David Wright was overlooked by Time Magazine as Person of the Year.

By Renegator

December 19, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Lew:

I’d love to get in on that Chipper Wurlitzer…

Best description of Anders would be - George Costanza

30 something, living with his parents, unemployed, never been married, fat and balding.

Or at least that’s what I imagine him being like…

By Lew

December 19, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

DAP-Not bad at all. It does have a certain ring to it.

I’ve got some errands to attend to. Let’s see what the Denizens can come up with. Make Anders proud. Let him know what you really think. Maybe we’ll let HIM decide if the Wurlitzer should be Chipper, who owns the Mets, or Glavine, whose presence Anders laments so much. What do you think Anders?

By McFann

December 19, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

uga, dry up, will ya? I thought you had a college education.

F 1, come on, I like Tim Hudson, too.

LOL

Anders is a classic example of mind vs. matter.

I don’t know what’s the matter with his mind.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 19, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

lew — that’s a good “outside atlanta” point, and thanks for reminding me of it.

i do think that there are quite a few things that would suggest a poor year. his 11-win season was coupled with 10 losses and an ERA that was about a half-run higher than his 2006 ERA; he consistently struggled to get past the 5th inning; he gave up many home runs; he himself admits (in the recent Chop Talk Q&A session) that it was a disappointing year; he was sidelined in august with should trouble. also, i’m responding to BB Fan’s statement that “a guy like James can only improve.”

i think you’re right that not many in baseball would characterize an 11-win season as poor, and i’d agree with you. by most standards, that’s not a poor season. however, while the 11 wins looks promising, there are other things that aren’t quite as promising, such as his ERA, his injury, HR allowed and his innings pitched and average innings per game. i remember reading that the royals wouldn’t want to do the david dejesus/chuck james trade because they didn’t think that james was a fair return. i would think that an 11-game winner from a contender would look good for a team like the royals, but evidently there’s more to it than wins.

By rich brave

December 19, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

LEW:

I’m with you there. I was thinking that without improvement in’08 he may not even be a SP. With the plethora of arms thirsting for the #5 slot, I felt he might be long relief. Maybe even better than Moylan. Give me two to four shutdown innings and turn it over to the 8th and/or 9th inning guys. Just postulating of course.

By AdirondackDave

December 19, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Bay Area Steve — Thanks, great minds, etc….

By Lew

December 19, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Now Anders-As usual, you fail to read all that is said and fail to comprehend even the limited amount you DO read. His vote has to do with leadership on the Braves.

Now say what you will of McFann and his younger age. However, he went toe to toe (allusion to a common blog concept) with me all day Sunday and we walked away as respected combatants, if not as friends. You might just learn something from McFann-but then again, knowing you? Probably not. Besides, he has a feathered friend living with him. That alone speaks volumes about his sterling character.

By Rookie Rules of Engagement

December 19, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

New rule has been added to the RROE.

No more superiority or persecution complexes are permitted. They are both equally annoying.

Also, a new one is being debated on the floor as we speak: No more creepy middle aged men pretending to be teenaged girls who just fanatically love a certain chubby catcher.

By Lew

December 19, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Daybed-With those ten losses, you must take into consideration that the Braves were shut out in four of his starts and scored 2 runs or less in quite a few more-don’t have the exact numbers, but Braveheart could likely tell you. Yes, he has improvement to look forward to, but he is young, has a good minor league record and 22 wins in less than two full seasons for a team that had a losing record one year and two consecutive third place finishes ain’t chopped liver, either.

By Anders

December 19, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

Lew

Gotta be Chipper (who does own the Mets - I agree) since that’s what you promised. I’m sure somewhere along the way we’ll have another difference of opinion that will warrant you giving out an award on my behalf and you can use Glavine then - Fair enough?

Must say I haven’t seen anything clever enough to win yet though.

By DAP

December 19, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

LEW in that case, please consider my three entries above, describing anders’ posts as craptastically crapulent, traginomically pitiflencent, stupinomic stupositories and add meticulously metly to my entries.

i actually used a real word in that one, and slid-in a reference to the most terriborificly sucknatious baseball team ever!

this post may end up being harder to read than the russian i posted earlier.

By Lew

December 19, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

Keep those quips coming y’all. I shall return-bearing artwork, for sure. I just love all this involvement.

By McFann

December 19, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

Hey, Braveheart, I have news for you. Francoeur was not the youngest on the team. Nope. He was born on 1/08/84. Got that? Now, see if you can guess which player was born on 2/20/84…

BTW, Chipper is still the Braves current leader. And Frenchy wasn’t the only Brave who spoke out on the Mitchell Report. Come on, Terry Pendleton said it was sad.

I have no idea what that A Rod event is of which you speak, so I cannot comment on that.

Gee, I never thought I’d get the Laugh of the Day Award!! I thought awards only went to people like Not Wright.

LOL!

By Anders

December 19, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

Just saw this on CNN.

Congress has voted to add David Wright to Mount Rushmore.

Chipper’s gonna be pi$$ed

By ncscoots

December 19, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

Francoeur said he’s a George W. Bush fan, so there you go.

Well, he’s young, so there’s still hope.

By Anders

December 19, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

Overheard at Hartsfield Airport:

Bill Parcells: “No Mr. Blank I’m not here to salvage that mess of a franchise you own. I was just connecting flights for Miami. Sorry about the confusion.”

By AdirondackDave

December 19, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

ncscoots —- got that right.

By McFann

December 19, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

Aww, thanks, Lew, that was very touching…only you got my gender wrong. Yeah, secret’s out, I guess.

Nah, Anders can’t learn anything from anyone, especially not from a “Know It All 15 Year Old” like me. ; )

As I right to you, my lovable bird is SCREAMING at the top of his lungs. I guess he’s just excited about me being in the room. He suffers from sever separation anxiety.

By mo in the boonies

December 19, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

flange1 I think Charisma is the word you are searching for in regard to Frenchy. And I too think he has the makings to be a leader, but time will tell.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

December 19, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

Realizing the Braves already have a plethora of young centerfielders I wonder what it would take to get Rajai Davis from the Giants. Would a straightup trade of Scott Thorman for him work? I like Davis and think he would fit the “stopgap” role and give the Braves needed depth in the outfield so they can possibly put together a package next offseason to fill a need. The guy can fly and I was quite impressed with him when watching Giants games. Have to wonder what the Pirates were thinking trading him for Matt Morris.

By Bay Area Steve

December 19, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

Having seen Lew’s artwork, I would desperately love to win the coveted Wurlitzer. But, in regards to Anders, you’re simply not going to do better than Adirondack Dave’s 3:43.

By Anders

December 19, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

McFann I have no beef with you. You’ve repeatedly say how young you are. Just today you said you were younger than Escobar. How was I offensive?

Don’t let Lew drag you into his nasty world.

By Braveheart

December 19, 2007 6:03 PM | Link to this

Hey, Braveheart, I have news for you. Francoeur was not the youngest on the team. Nope. He was born on 1/08/84. Got that? Now, see if you can guess which player was born on 2/20/84…

the team that I was speaking of where Frenchy was the youngest member of the team, McCann was not invited to be a part of. Frenchy was indeed the youngest member of that team. If you don’t know which team that is well then …… start reading about the other 24 players on the team for once.

BTW, Chipper is still the Braves current leader. And Frenchy wasn’t the only Brave who spoke out on the Mitchell Report. Come on, Terry Pendleton said it was sad.

Never questioned whether Chipper is the leader. The quote you referenced from me yesterday was about Yunel, Frenchy, and McCann being future leaders of the team. I wasn’t even comparing which one of the 3 would be THE leader because I believe all 3 will be leaders in their own different ways. Frenchy, not McCann, was the Braves player who came out first and spoke to DOB following the Mitchell investigation, which opened Frenchy up to criticism from some people on the blog. Part of being a leader is putting your mug out there to let people take shots at during unpopular times for the team, player or game.

I have no idea what that A Rod event is of which you speak, so I cannot comment on that.

Of course you don’t know of it. It didn’t involve McCann. You are aware the team has 24 other players, right?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 19, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this

The reason Francoeur spoke out was because he is the team’s union rep. Is everyone going to bash him too now because he represents the (gasp)union.

By DAP

December 19, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

Lew youre the wurlitzer guy, but i really hope you make a decision on the wulitzer winner before david wright gets wind of it. he’ll win for sure and steal my glory. then he will take the image of chipper and taunt it with his gold gold forever.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 19, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this

Anders Anyone who lives so close to the Jets should be careful how they speak.

By DAP

December 19, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

wow, Anders your last post was idiomatically redicous

By Lew

December 19, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

All Right Denizens-Here’s how it will shake out. You’re help in proving my point is extremely well appreciated. Now the thing is though, that the point is NOT my popularity, as Anders thinks, but the support y’all have showed for your team. You had their backs on this, a Braves’ Blog, where they suffer constant attacks from mere Mets’ fans, who have yet to learn THEIR places. You are all to be complimented and you all will be rewarded.

DAP wins the Chipper drawing. He submitted several good ones, but anyone that even has the Cyrillic alphabet at his fingertips, just to make a point, deserves something. However, his “Traginomically pitiflecent” was great (despite what Anders thinks). He is deserving.

Now McFann-Regardless of what gender you my be or not, what I said earlier was what I believe to be the truth. You DID hold your own against me (even if I still believe myself to be correct-heh, heh!!). You handled yourself pretty well. I will now bestow upon you something I have only done once before (it is also the reason Adirondack Dave is not being declared a winner-he was the other instance). I have a portrait of Brian McCann. Now that, in and of itself is no big deal, but McFann, this drawing was signed by Brian McCann at Spring Training 06. It is inscribed on the back with when and where he signed it. How’s that for a runner up prize?

Now the rest of you-Adirondack Dave, Renegator, Bay Area Steve and Rookie Rules- I will award all of you hand colored prints of whatever Braves’ player that I have a drawing of. Choose from Chipper, Javy, Glavine, Sid Slid, Francoeur or even Johnny Estrada, or even Johnny Cash. Not exactly a Wurlitzer drawing, but a one of a kind piece, nonetheless. Merry Christmas (or whatever Holiday seems more appropriate to everyone-Halloween is always good) to all loyal Braves’ fans.

All I require is an email to me at lewhartman@comcast.net and you must include your real name, your blog name and your snail mail address.

See Anders? It never was about me, but about the Braves. I need no votes to know where I stand on this blog. Maybe now you begin to get an idea of exactly where YOU stand though. Not too high up-that’s for sure.

By Hugh Hefner

December 19, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

David Wrong is the 2007 Playboy Playmate of the Year. Be sure to pick up that edition. The centerfold features David Wrong in the middle of a Dayn Perry/Keith Law bag o’douche sandwich.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 19, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this

I just got back from the mall to do some Christmas shopping, and there was nobody in the Santa Claus line. I went up to the girl in the elf costume and asked “hey, where is everybody?” She didn’t say anything, just nodded across the atrium where David Wright was standing in the middle of a mob of eager kids and parents, all of them climbing over each other to get their pictures taken with him.

By geauxbraves2000

December 19, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

Just saw this on CNN. Congress has voted to add David Wright to Mount Rushmore.

Now that’s funny, I don’t care who you are. :)

Geaux Braves!!

By Bryan

December 19, 2007 7:22 PM | Link to this

I just heard on ESPN radio that chuck james started installing windows again at Lowes this week …

The report went on to say that James had lost his touch (a lot of cracked frames and off center cuts) and they brought in a specialist from the corporate office to help him progress.

When the car with the specialist pulled up, Chuck James’ boss said “hey, this guy in the car, he is the best of the best, an all-star window installer, maybe the best in the world, God’s gift to window installing - and just like you Chuck, he is only part time”

The car pulled up and out stepped a familiar face - “Hi there Chuck James, my name is David Wright”

By Steve

December 19, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

I don’t buy nearly as many new albums as I used to. But of the new albums I bought for 2007, this is my top 10:

1) Arcade Fire — Neon Bible 2) Bruce Springsteen — Magic 3) Graham Parker — Don’t Tell Columbus 4) Ian Hunter — Shrunken Heads 5) Nick Lowe — At My Age 6) John Fogerty — Revival 7) Steve Earle — Washington Square Serenade 8) Paul McCartney — Memory Almost Full 9) Lucinda Williams — West 10) Patti Scialfa — Play It As It Lays

By Braveheart

December 19, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this

The car pulled up and out stepped a familiar face - “Hi there Chuck James, my name is David Wright”

And Chuck James said who the hell are you since Chuck has no clue what the names of the batters he is facing are.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 19, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this

BB Fan and Lew — don’t get me wrong, i’m a chuck james fan. he’s still young and has time to improve, and i think he will.

Lew — it looks to me like the braves were shut out in 3 of his losses: may 23 vs. NYM (3 runs (2 earned) in 4.2 IP), june 13 vs. MIN (6 ER in 4.1 IP), and june 24 vs. DET (4 ER in 5 IP). yes, a lack of run support hurt him in those games and contributed to his total losses, but abundance of run support also helped his win total. in his 11 wins, he had only 2 runs of support twice; in his other 9 wins, he had between 4 and 8 runs of support. i’m not saying that this is bad — a good pitcher makes the lead stick and doesn’t cough up a lead when they get at least 4 runs of support — but i wouldn’t call him the victim of poor offense, either.

sorry for going into that much detail, but i’m not sure where to find a pitcher’s run support statistic. anyone know where that is? by comparison, i think (though i’m not positive) that tim hudson, john smoltz and johan santana had much worse run support than chuck.

By CC Rider

December 19, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

Lew, My entry in the name Anders posts contest: Anders Meanders.

By mike

December 19, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

Mahay signed with the royals, 2 years 8 million. That sounds like something the Braves could have afforded with the “extra millions” especially if they didn’t trade for ohman. Oh well

By ncgary

December 19, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

have to agree adirondak probably nailed the head with anders castanza,thats about the scenario i imagined also, dont like to put others down but castanza and anders may very well be one in the same, send that man a chipper even though we all would love to have that one

By JerseyGil

December 19, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

DOB Gil Did you remember back on November that i post that Javy was working in Puerto Rico to comeback in shape. That was in that time a true source, personal and family source fromn the island.Frank Wren lie to you DOB…he want to keep a secret.

By Braveheart

December 19, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

On next week’s episode, Homer Lew Simpson gets driven nuts by Flanders yet again.

By Steamboat

December 19, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

mike, I agree. Mahay at 8 mil for 2 years beats the heck out of trading players for Fuentes, for one year at $5 mil. If that’s what it took to get him, I’m really disappointed we weren’t in the mix.

Seems like the “not so good” decisions for the Braves keep adding up.

By Lew

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

CCRider and Daybed-Go ahead and email me. Y’all were somewhat late, but in keeping with the season, I’ll send y’all prints, too. The information is in my 6:45 post. That’s it, though, Have to cut it off somewhere. FaLaLaLaLa and whatnot. Deck them Halls.

By Lew

December 19, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Steamboat-How in the world can you consider not giving Mahay $4 mil a year a bad decision-especially with Gonzalez returning mid season and the fact Chuck may end up as a lefty out of the pen? Come on, Dude. Mahay pitches what? Three innings a week max? I sure as hell wouldn’t pay him that much. $4 mil a year for someone that old who pitches that little is absurd.

By McFann

December 19, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Wow, Braveheart, the Braves have 24 other players? Well, live and learn.

LOL!!

Hey, I read stuff about other players, dummy. But back when whatever it was that happened with A-Rod happened, I wasn’t an internet surfer. Boy, Fancoeur’s pretty bold to pick something with someone like A-Rod.

And you know, you have to be such a smart aleck about it!! SHEESH!!

By NCBravesFan

December 19, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

I heard about the Silva contract with the M’s for something like $40 million over 4 years. It reminded me of all those insane free agent pitching signings from last year (esp. the Cubs).

It made me appreciate the job the Braves do to trade for pitching and try to keep to a budget.

By McFann

December 19, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

Anders, when, pray tell, did I say that you were offensive.

Oh, and, Braveheart, that team that Francoeur was a part of was the USA Team in the World Baseball Classic. Duh!!

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

December 19, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this

There has been some discussion about the infield today. I think that things are pretty much set on this area of the team.

Chipper , Escobar , Johnson , Teixeira and McCann are the starters. Infante , Aybar and Thorman are the back ups on the infield and the second catcher will be decided during spring training.

What I can’t figure out is , how are the Braves going to carry four outfielders if Brandon Jones/Matt Diaz platoon in LF , Francoeur is in RF , Josh Anderson is in CF and the Braves still need one more outfielder to cover CF for a total of five.

Cox will carry 12 pitchers on his roster. Leaving room for 2 catchers , 2 first basemen , 5 infielders on the left side and 4 outfielders.

It’s a problem that , at the moment , doesn’t seem to have an answer.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 19, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

JerseyGil How you been guy? The plot thickens does it not? I remember. Problem we have is separating the truth from fiction. We know how Sen. Mitchell feels eh?

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 19, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this

Did you guys see this? I’ve seen the show a couple of times and thought it was pretty stupid, but must have overlooked a certain person’s role in it…

*Tequila Finds Mr. “Wright” on MTV Dating Show

NEW YORK — Tila Tequila is taking a shot at love with a dude.

The bisexual Internet celebrity selected 24-year-old baseball player David Wright as the winner of “A Shot at Love With Tila Tequila,” her popular MTV reality dating show, instead of 29-year-old female firefighter Dani Campbell.

“I do love Dani, and we’ve gone through so much together,” Tequila said during Tuesday’s finale. “But I am in love with David.”*

The rest of the (real) story can be read here

and perhaps it’s just coincidence that all of this talk has been going on, but guess who’s birthday is tomorrow, Dec. 20th?? you guessed it — David Wright!

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

December 19, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Foxsports is reporting that Ron Mahay has agreed to a two year 8 million dollar contract with the KC Royals.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 19, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

Daybed Wagmoe Has to be the shoes man, has to be the shoes…. Chicks dig shoes:-) And a big bat….. Oops, I mean a long ball… Something like that….

By NYBOB

December 19, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

I think that the chances of keeping Tex past this year are slim. He wants to go to Baltimore.

I would trade Tex to Baltimore for Roberts and Bedard. We get speed in the order and innings pitched. And, we get to keep someone for more than this year.

Baltimore would do this in a heartbeat and let them deal with Boros next year.

By chris

December 19, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

Lew: So what is a guy who says “ya’ll” doing in northern New England?

By Jared

December 19, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this

BREAKING NEWS: Braves continue to do nothing!

By Steamboat

December 19, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Lew, I would’ve liked to see us go another way.

No Ascanio for Ohman/Infante deal. That alone saves us about $3 mil, right?

Lillibridge can do anything that Infante can do, and probably better (probably MUCH better). But apparently Lilli will play another year in the minors. I think he could have gotten 300 ab’s in the majors if he can back up SS, 2B and CF.

And we got Ohman, but seem to still be in the market for a LHRP (Fuentes). So I can only guess there’s not too much faith in him (or Ring).

I’d rather have seen us keep Mahay, and not make the Ascanio for Ohman/Infante deal; show a little faith in our up-and-comers.

Hey - I might very well be wrong! I acknowledge that JS/FW/BC know a lot more than me, but I must admit, I’m a little suspect of the approach we’ve taken so far. Mahay at $4 mil is high, but we could’ve had that, as opposed to Infante and Ohman… OhWell.

By Lew

December 19, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

Chris-After almost 35 years down south, my wife, who is from South Carolina (we went to Mercer in Macon and UGA), was offered a dream job in Vermont at many more $$$$$ than was ever going to be available south of the Mason Dixon line. Combine that with a house on lots of wooded acres overlooking the Green Mountains and it was too good to turn down. Still watch all the Braves games and either watch or listen to all them Dawg games too. With that and the blog, the single digit temperatures and the two feet of snow are bearable. Can’t wait for Spring Training and that Florida sun, though.

By Lew

December 19, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

Steamboat-I hear ya Dude, but I think, in the long run, Ohman will do what Mahay did. Ohman’s record is very skewed because as a Cub, he was God awful at Wrigley, but lights out everywhere else. Add to that the fact that he is also lights out on LH hitters and he serves the purpose of a LH reliever-to get out lefties. He also does it at a lot less $$$$$.

As for Infante. They were looking for someone who could play short and a lot of other positions, as well, with ML experience. That’s what they got. They obviously want Lillibridge to have another full year of experience behind him. From what I understand, they are not certain he is ready to hit ML pitching.

By ColoradoBravesFan

December 19, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

DOB Or any others, Bennett has not pitched in Winter Ball since 28 Nov, and it was a bad outing. 3 innings, 10 hits, 5 ERs. Is there anyupdate as to why he hasn’t pitched in almost 3 weeks? Was there an injury in his last outing? Go Braves…

By Canuckbravesfan

December 19, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this

Lew and Steamboat—with regard to Infante, I think we will find he is a huge up-grade from Woodward. He is an above-average hitter with some pop and pretty decent glove. May turn out to be one of our better off-season moves.

By N8

December 19, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this

Just gotta say all this David Wright sarcasm is frickin’ hilarious! Keep it up guys. Good stuff.

Still laughing about the Mount Rushmore comment. Very nice. :-)

By Steamboat

December 19, 2007 11:19 PM | Link to this

Canuck, well, “a huge up-grade from Woodward” is one thing… but an above average hitter is quite another. The guy has a .298 career OBP… yeah, well, it was .307 last year!

I’m feeling unusually critical of the Braves tonight. Sure it’ll all be fine. But Ohman and Infante, as opposed to Mahay and Lillibridge, just aren’t getting me too excited right now.

By chris

December 19, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this

Lew: I’m in Boston and the winters are pretty brutal here, so I can only imagine what it’s like up in VT. Anyway, TBS sure made it easier to follow the Braves. So much for that now.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

Steamboat, I can certainly understand you having concerns with having Ohman instead of Mahayr (don’t agree with you though; compare Ohman’s stats to Mahay’s vs. lefties, and particularly compare their overall stats away from Wrigley. Folks, Mahay had a very good year at a very opportune time. He’s OK to good, not great.)

But when you write: “Lillibridge can do anything that Infante can do, and probably better (probably MUCH better)….” I gotta say, where in the world are you getting that information? Based on what exactly?

You can’t seriously expect a rookie like Lillibridge would be a better choice for a utility role than a solid veteran like Infante, can you? My man, he’s a very versatile utility man with above-average defensive skills at three or four positions and average skills at a couple others. Good player.

Lillibridge will likely have a good career and could be well above average, but he’s not ready to thrive while playing a bunch of positions he’s never played before, moving around and getting sporadic playing time as a utility man, and certainly not pinch-hitting. That’s just not the role for a kid like that, without any experience in the majors and without any pro experience at any position except shortstop.

I mean, there’s only one former rookie I can think of who could have excelled in such a role after playing one position his whole minor league career — kid named David Wright.

By Wayne in Utah (we need David Wright in ATL)

December 20, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

Dave Do you think the Mets would take Thorman, Prado and Buddy Carlyle for David Wright? Then we could spin Infante and Chuckie James for Erik Bedard!

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

December 20, 2007 12:26 AM | Link to this

What do you think O’Brien. Is Lillibridge insurance in case Chipper goes down and Escobar has to slide over to 3B ?

I can see Escobar at 3B and Lillibridge as our SS in the future , assuming Chipper retires due to injury in the next two or three seasons.

Keep in mind that Chipper is under contract through 2008 with a team option for 2009. Chipper will be 37 at the end of the 2009 season.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

Steve, agree with you on the Nick Lowe, Graham Parker, Lucinda Williams and Steve Earle albums all being among the best of the year. Lowe, Lucinda and Earle all would’ve made my top 35 or 40.

Parker would have been in my top 15, to be honest, but I thought it was released at the end of 2006. Guess I screwed that one up. Which is really dumb, considering I saw him live in July in Chicago at the Old Town School of Folk Music. Great show. At the show, I bought a limited-release live album “103 Degrees in June” that he’d done in Chicago during the summer, when it was that hot. Rockin’ album.

I thought “Don’t Tell Columbus” (released this year, as now noted) was his best since “The Mona Lisa’s Sister.” Terrific album.

By the way, here’s a link to a cut from that live album.

graham parker live

By Wayne in Utah

December 20, 2007 12:33 AM | Link to this

Dave: If the Braves had more than just passing interest in Dan Haren (Huge IF), then would they have the same interest in some others? Bedard, Blanton, etc?

I know that Frank W has stated he is finished with the staff, but I think he would be foolish to at least not be checking to see what is being offered and accepted for these pitchers. I like our staff so far, but I would like it a lot better with a guy like Haren, Bedard, Cain, or even Blanton.

By Steamboat

December 20, 2007 12:37 AM | Link to this

Ha! Yeah, Wright would be the uber-utility player.

Utility Player of the Year! David Wright!

DOB, like I said, I’m a little frustrated with the Braves’ moves this offseason, and I’m about to take the Holiday week off, so maybe I’m venting a little, in advance of a week off.

Losing Renteria, Mahay, and AJ… adding Infante, Ohman and Josh Anderson. I like the young guys, but just am not sure this all adds up.

Yes, I DO think Brent Lillibridge would hit, run and field better than Omar Infante if given the chance. (have you looked at Omar’s offensive numbers?) But I understand that maybe it would be unwise to throw Lilli to the wolves like that. So… okay - I’ll buy it, though I think it’s a very conservative approach. Lillibridge is not a kid - he played 3 years of college ball and 87 games at AAA last year - But, okay.

What are we doing with LHRP? God, we get Ledezma, dump him, get Ring, get Mahay, get Ohman, and the rumors are we’re still looking at trading quality players for Fuentes? All that with Gonzo coming back in July, hopefully?

Sounds a little like the Falcons and tight ends!

I’ll try to shut up now, for a week or so; I understand the logic of the moves to date, but am having a hard time agreeing with it. I’ll hope for the best.

By Wayne in Utah

December 20, 2007 12:44 AM | Link to this

Coach A couple of thoughts on your post. I suspect that Chipper will be signed to an extension soon, maybe with some qualifiers.

I suspect that Lillibridge’s has the ability to handle SS. I believe the question is can he hit enough in the majors for that exposure.

Whether he gets a chance will probably depend on how the roster sorts out. Will there be someone else that is good enough to handle third base if Chipper goes down, and will this person (Aybar, Infante, Prado) hit enough to not tempt the Braves to give Lillibridge a try.

Sort of similar to what happened last year BEFORE Escobar was called up.

Whaddya think??

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

December 20, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this

Wayne , considering the fact that Lillibridge has been playing SS for at least the last five seasons , it’s fair to say he can handle the position :)

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

December 20, 2007 1:00 AM | Link to this

Steamboat , I agree with O’Brien completely. Infante is exactly what the Braves needed.

Omar Infante scouting report

Assets : A very intense and driven player, with superb defensive skills up the middle. At the plate, he’ll poke the ball the other way and has occasional power. He’s got quick feet on the base paths.

Flaws : Can’t catch up to tight heat, resulting in too many strikeouts. Has some trouble against southpaws.

Career potential : Strong utility infielder.

Which is exactly how the Braves will utilize him.

By John Adcox

December 20, 2007 1:03 AM | Link to this

**DOB wrote:

Wait, this just coming in on the news ticker… what’s this…. oh, great news: David Wright has offered to step in and negotiate a settlement in the TV writers strike.**

Don’t toy with me, dude. That’s my livelihood you’re funnin’ with! And at Christmas, too. Shame.

By uga-brave

December 20, 2007 1:40 AM | Link to this

to all the denziens,

driving up to pittsburgh tommorow, braveheart, lew, n8, tenn paul, wayne in utah, and all the great bloggers HAPPY HOLLIDAYS. you guys make talking about the braves FUN. never forget that word FUN. it is what it is all about.

we all agree to disagree at times, but we all share one common thing, except for anders, WE LOVE THE BRAVES AND BASEBALL. so from the bottom of my heart i wish all of you HAPPY HOLLIDAYS.

as far as baseball goes i sure hope ohman works out. mahay looked really good last year, for him to go to a non contender pretty much tells us our budget is tight. i know 4 mill is a lot, but over two years for a really good left handed guy that gets people out it is what it is.

so we will find out. if ohman works out. wren is a genius, if not we got to call out our budget constraints.

By uga-brave

December 20, 2007 1:56 AM | Link to this

guys we are now a mid market team. this is what mid market teams do. they make choices, that are within their prescibed payroll.

we are not the yanks, mets, angels, or phils. this is now our new way of life, i hate it. we are now and have been a corporation for a while.

By uga-brave

December 20, 2007 2:08 AM | Link to this

DOB,

first and foremost have a happy holliday, keep wearing those chucks.

probably will notice you at some point. aisle 105 row 12 1-6. cant wait to see how much of 101 is gone. anyways DAVE happy hollidays, i think there are a lot of guys besides me that envy you.

only a hand few of beat guys out there, and i think you have a top 10 job.

By Steamboat

December 20, 2007 2:10 AM | Link to this

Coach, I just hope all of you who don’t seem concerned with offense… from CF or the bench … will feel the same way when it’s 5-4 in the 8th, in a late June game.

Infante’s “career potential” seems to have been correct; he’s not a prospect. He’s been in the majors for 5 years (6 if you count a limited 2002), so I wouldn’t expect any major improvements in his performance.

I’m sure he’ll be serviceable. A decent SS (though his statistical history there is not so great) and a weak bat. Is there any reason to expect anything else?

By Nolie

December 20, 2007 2:32 AM | Link to this

DOB Or any others, Bennett has not pitched in Winter Ball since 28 Nov, and it was a bad outing. 3 innings, 10 hits, 5 ERs. Is there anyupdate as to why he hasn’t pitched in almost 3 weeks? Was there an injury in his last outing? CBF

yeah I asked the same thing almost a week ago but never got an answer

By Wayne in Utah

December 20, 2007 2:36 AM | Link to this

Steamboat: Just a thought or two on offense. Comparing last year to 2008, is it fair to say that we are close to being equal or maybe even marginally better at 2B, SS, 3B, C, LF, and RF. With Tex for a full year, he is a huge improvement over what AJ did last season. So, our CF, will have to give us more than Thorman did to be equal to last years offense.

No, I am not forgetting about Renteria, but while he will be missed offensively, we do have Escobar for the entire season, and he will make us forget about Renteria’s defense.

The bench should be better, with two possible big IFs. If Chipper doesn’t go down, or IF Lillibridge comes in and does well IF Chipper does break down.

The wild card is then CF, which I personally think will not be a concern this year. Maybe that’s the optimist in me, or just being positive about our choices.

So, while there is NO doubt our rotation is better, if our bullpen can hold up, and I think it will, then we should get a WS win next fall!

Nite all.

uga: If you go back and look at Mahay’s career, he has been a pretty OK pitcher. You don’t pay 4 million per year for 36 year old “pretty OK” pitchers. Not unless you are the Yankees. (actually, there are a few other stupid GM’s that would overpay for a middle reliever, I guess.) I just think that those positions in the bullpen HAVE to be filled by cheap, effective journeymen, or young upstarts from your system that are also cheap. Or maybe from someone elses retreads. So, I think Ohman will probably do fine for us. Maybe I am wrong, but if so, I think we have troops to back him up.

thanks for the holiday greetings. Have a safe trip and a Merry Christmas!

By Marilyn Monroe

December 20, 2007 4:09 AM | Link to this

Happy birthday to you, Happy birthday to you, Happy birthday dear Mr. President Wright, Happy birthday to you

By Ole Prof

December 20, 2007 4:13 AM | Link to this

Wonder why we never see some discussion of country music here when baseball is slow…. not the KID country of today, but REAL COUNTRY MUSIC… Aww, I know, you guys are kids..

By Elton John

December 20, 2007 4:20 AM | Link to this

Easy now, Norma Jean. Mr. Wright is just a candle in the wind who clings to Keith Law when the rain sets in.

By John F. Kennedy

December 20, 2007 4:27 AM | Link to this

Ask not what your country can do for you; Ask what the country can do for David Wright

By Metropolitan Man

December 20, 2007 4:40 AM | Link to this

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAVID WRIGHT!!!! YOU ARE NOW THE LEAGUES NEW ELITE 3RD BASEMEN. Watch that other old 3rd basemen hurt himself trying to turn back the clock.

By Howard Stern

December 20, 2007 4:46 AM | Link to this

I have been wrong all these years. David Wright is the King of All Media.

Imus still sucks, however.

BABABOOEY!

By Larry Wayne Jones

December 20, 2007 4:51 AM | Link to this

Metrosexual Man, shut your mouth. David Wright has to work 8 days a week to match my stats while I only have to work banker’s hours.

By Metropolitan Man

December 20, 2007 5:06 AM | Link to this

Chumper, meet me at Wright’s birthday party at Dave and Busters on Satelite. I’ll be the one wearing orange and blue. I know how to spot you, just look for the big guy in the fruity pink hooters shirt.

By David Wright

December 20, 2007 5:16 AM | Link to this

He’s right Metrosexual Man. Chipper Jones dogged me in the 134 games he played this past. Better batting average, OBP, slugging percentage and only one less homerun despite me playing in 26 more games. Also Chipper had under half the errors my gold glove defense produced.

Before I go to fight AIDs in Africa, an interesting stat via the Bill James handbook:

“Scott Thorman had the longest average homerun in the NL at 409 feet.”

Never give up on a player with huge potential after one season. Even I was not awesome as I am now in my first season: .332 OBP! I know, hard to believe.

By CC Rider

December 20, 2007 5:38 AM | Link to this

From ESPN: Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank in response to Bill Parcels about face in not taking the Falcons President of Football Operations position. ” We gave it our best shot, but it just didn’t work out. We know the fans are wondering what our next move will be in regards to our difficult season. Well, I am happy to announce the position has been filled by the most qualified candidate on the market. The new President of Football Operations is David Wright of the New York Mets. David would like to briefly address you now.” “Thank you Mr. Blank, I would like all the Falcons fans to know that we will have this francise turned around next season. I will also double as Defensive Coordinator and we will run not a 3-4 defense nor a 4-4 defense, but my new GOLD GLOVE defense. This new defense makes a lot of errors and mistakes but the gleeming whites of our smiles and rugged woman appealing and apparently male baseball award voters appealing good looks will stun the opposition into making even greater mistakes, thus rendering them helpless in the face of our illusionary greatness. I wish I could give you greater detail at this time, but I have a photo shoot for GQ, an appearence on the Letterman show, a Saturday Night Live rehearsal and a dated with some supermodel my agent arranged. I will have another press conference very soon and at that time will address my nomination this morning by President Bush as the GOP candidate for President in the upcoming election, as well as, Al Gore’s request to head the United Nations Global Warming Symposium in Geneva Switzerland next Month. Thank You and may the force be with you, IT HAS BEEN WITH ME!

By Joe Buck

December 20, 2007 5:46 AM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN: Tony Romo has dumped Jessica Simpson. That’s wright. Tony Romo has dumped Jessica Simpson. Tony Romo is now dating David Wright. Look for David Wright to be sitting in the booth instead of Jessica this weekend.

By Larry Wayne Jones

December 20, 2007 5:59 AM | Link to this

Then Dave and Busters it is Metrosexual Man. I’ll recognize you as the lonely wallflower twiddling his thumbs looking adoringly at David Wright as he strikes out with all the women with his favorite pickup line, “Who knew being so Wright could be so wrong.”

Don’t worry. Mr. Wright has no chance with those women once I show up. He’ll be working his way back to you babe with a burning love inside.

By Joe Cocker

December 20, 2007 6:24 AM | Link to this

When you are an aging performer like me, you get all kinds of weird requests to perform at strange events. For example, just yesterday, I got a call from a man named Dayn Perry. This Mr. Perry wanted me to perform You Are So Beautiful To Me when Mr. Perry proposed marriage to Mr. David Wright at Mr. Wright’s birthday bash. It just don’t feel right to me. Can you imagine me standing there singing “You are so beautiful to me, You are so beautiful to me, Can’t you see, Your everything I hoped for, Your everything I need, You are so beautiful to me” while Mr. Perry fawns over Mr. Wright. Sorry, man, just can’t do that. Don’t feel wright to me. Don’t need the money that bad. Only way it would work is to bring John Belushi back from the dead to imitate me and spoof Dayn Perry’s bizarre request.

By Metropolitan Man

December 20, 2007 6:31 AM | Link to this

Hang in their Chumper. On your birthday we will give you an elusive gold glove. I know you have been robbed by the league your entire life but knowing that Hooters still exist should numb the pain. Wear your pink braves jersey and your hooters wig and start singing happy birthday.

By Metropolitan Man

December 20, 2007 6:42 AM | Link to this

Boston braves, No Milwaukee braves, No Atalnta braves, No

David Wrights Birthday Wish: send the braves to thier 4th city, like Montgomery. That way everybody is friends and family at the same time.

By ssiscribe

December 20, 2007 8:20 AM | Link to this

Top of the morning, denizens, on this cloudy Thursday.

I wanted to come on here this morning and clear my conscience. This is something I’ve thought about doing for a long time; now seems like the appropriate moment.

Some of you have asked about my life, who I am and what I do for a living. I’ve told you that I used to work in the newspaper business as a sports writer, covering some major league baseball along the way.

That’s not exactly true.

While my profession and major league baseball have crossed paths, I’ve never worked for a newspaper. I’ve always enjoyed writing, but I’ve never been a published writer until I found this blog. Actually, I’m just a guy from Norfolk, Va., who loved baseball growing up, fortunate enough to play the sport for a long time.

Today, I work for the absolute greatest organization in the United States, in the largest city in America, doing something I love to do. I pay close attention to the Braves though; I see them play in person 18 times a year.

I hope the facade I’ve been hiding behind for the past two years doesn’t scare you away from the real me. I long to know each and every one of you, and I look forward to expanding our friendships and correspondences as 2008 dawns.

Happy Holidays, esteemed bloggers of the Braves/MIB. And in case you need another reason to celebrate, today’s my birthday! Yippee!!

Love, David Wright

—30—

By Anders

December 20, 2007 8:20 AM | Link to this

Lew

Traginomically pitiflecent

That’s the winner? I honestly have no idea what it’s supposed to mean? But then again I went to one of those colleges where they don’t even care if their football team wins so I guess I’m slower than most on here.
Anyway - I offer my congratulations to DAP. As for McFanns second place prize of the McCann drawing I hope he has a wall wide enough to hang it on! Oh, and McFann don’t be suprised if once a day it falls off the wall and rolls to the other side of the room.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 9:08 AM | Link to this

David Wright’s Birthday Wish List

26 Game hitting streak. Join the 30-30 club ( Even though only two others have done it before 25 years old). To be featured on the cover of MLB 07 “The Show”. A wax figure in Madame Tussauds in NYC. A 460 foot HR into the construction site of the Mets new ballpark. A $55 mil contract. A $20 mil deal with Vitamin Water (thank you coke - for buying them). To make the All Star team again. A Gold Glove. The Silver Slugger award.

Oh wait - He has all that already. I’m sure he’d trade some of it to get the division title again but not a bad year for an over rated, over exposed 25 year old.

By Bruce Springsteen

December 20, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this

You’d better watch out, you’d better not cry You’d better not pout, I’m telling you why David Wright is coming to town David Wright is coming to town David Wright is coming to town

He’s making a list, he’s checkin’ it twice He’s gonna find out whose daughter you’re nice David Wright is coming to town David Wright is coming to town David Wright is coming to town

He sees you when you’re sleeping He knows if you’re awake He knows if you’ve been bad or good (so you’d) better be good for goodness sake Better be good for goodness sake

You’d better watch out, you’d better not cry You’d better not pout, I’m telling you why David Wright is coming to town David Wright is coming to town David Wright is coming to town

He sees you when you’re sleeping He knows if you’re awake He knows if you’ve been bad or good (so you’d) better be good for goodness sake Better be good for goodness sake

You’d better watch out, you’d better not cry You’d better not pout, I’m telling you why David Wright is coming to town David Wright is coming to town David Wright is coming to town

By Thrillhouse44

December 20, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this

Man-crush much, Anders?

By Thom

December 20, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

Add John Fogerty’s ‘Revival’ to the list. And as great concert as well.

By Thom

December 20, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

Add John Fogerty’s ‘Revival’ to the list. And as great concert as well.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this

Lew

See Anders? It never was about me, but about the Braves. I need no votes to know where I stand on this blog. Maybe now you begin to get an idea of exactly where YOU stand though. Not too high up-that’s for sure.

Lew, I’m pretty sure your campaign was “Say nasty things about Anders win valuable(?) prizes.” Not exactly an objective poll, but I have no problem with it - Kind of fun. BTW - I’ve always known where I stand. With the team the Braves have finished behind the last two years.

By DAP

December 20, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this

Coach you post the 5 outfielders question once before…i guess you missed my response. there isnt a problem for CF. the answer is that francouer and play CF, b. Jones can play CF and infante can play CF. those are the backups.

my guess is that the CF wont get many days off. when he does, itll be infante. in case of emergency, b. jones or francouer will play center. all three are capable.

By Dale Earnhardt

December 20, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

BTW - I’ve always known where I stand. With the team the Braves have finished behind the last two years.

Only a Mets fans boasts about finishing in second place and out of the playoffs. Second place is just the first place loser.

By David Wright

December 20, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this

Thrillhouse Lay off Anders. He’s my best dame. Anders will be jumping out my birthday cake tonight and doing a little tease. You should come. You’ll see why Cosmo and Anders’ father invented the manzierre and called it The Bro. Evidently, there’s quite a market for such a thing by the looks of Anders. He’s at a minimum an H cup.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 20, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this

anders - i didn’t know that david wright was so selfish and self-praising. i would’ve thought that he would’ve wished for a world series ring, his team not to have choked down the stretch, or maybe a for his team to pick up a good pitcher for next year. in keeping with the personal/individual accomplishments theme, perhaps he should’ve included “better defensive abilities” on the list.

after reading that list, i’m not sure if i feel comfortable giving david wright all of this praise anymore. sounds like he’s getting plenty from himself!

By 22oz

December 20, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this

Ok, the David Wright jokes have been oficially run in the ground. Friends know when to say when.

By N8

December 20, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

DOB

“I mean, there’s only one former rookie I can think of who could have excelled in such a role after playing one position his whole minor league career — kid named David Wright.”

Bravo! Sad thing is, while I was reading it, I didn’t see it coming, and as I began to read that paragraph, I was thinking to myself….”Hmmm. Who is he gonna mention?”.

Damn near spit my Diet Coke on my monitor.

Nice job DOB.

By Thrillhouse44

December 20, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

David Wright - please accept my apologies. I had no idea you were a switch-hitter. On that note, I’ll pass on the cake.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this

Thrillhouse

We don’t have anybody we call Frenchy, so lets not go down the man crush road - OK?

By kdbanks

December 20, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for the rec on the Rebels of Oakland documentary. Very entertaining, though a little too much Tom Hanks for my liking.

I see that Mahay may be going to K.C. I love what Dayton Moore is doing out there - spending money (overreaching some, but doing what he has to do to get guys) and building excitement.

KDB

By Marvin

December 20, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this

Sun Volt but no Wilco? I dissent.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

*Dale Earnehardt

Only a Mets fans boasts about finishing in second place and out of the playoffs. Second place is just the first place loser.

Hey even though the Mets hit a wall during the race at least they finished. Know what I mean?

By ssiscribe

December 20, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

I agree with 22 oz. Time to lay off the David Wright jokes. Know when to say when, even though I added my two cents worth to the mix :-).

Anders, we’re just poking fun at ya, man. Much props and respect to David Wright from this longtime ball fan. And a Merry Christmas to you and yours, and to all of you fine folks out there.

The Scribe abides.

—30—

By DAP

December 20, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this

thanx anders. dont go anywhere, brother. we need a target.

By Thrillhouse44

December 20, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Anders

No one on this blog gushes about Francoeur the way you do about DW. The only thing comparable is a 15 year old girl with a crush on McCann.

I thought you could take a joke - what happened? Rough off-season?

By Dale Earnhardt

December 20, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

No, Anders, I think the Mets met the same fate in Turn 4 that I did. But, yes, my finish was devastating, not disappointing.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 20, 2007 10:33 AM | Link to this

Hey even though the Mets hit a wall during the race at least they finished. Know what I mean?

um…no. do you mean that the mets finished the race by playing all 162 games? cause, uh, the braves did that too.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

Marvin, you really thought that Wilco album was better than Son Volt’s “The Search?” Not even close, in my opinion. Give me Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, Summerteeth, Being There or A.M., or the 2005 live album Kicking Television. But the last two albums, Ghost is Born and this year’s Sky Blue Sky, just didn’t do much for me. I have them both, but never play Ghost is Born and rarely play Sky Blue Sky.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

Scribe

Thank you, same to you and yours.

To all Don’t forget our troops over the holidays. Contact your local recruiting station and ask what and where you can send something. This is the toughest time of year for those far from home. Share something.Write a letter of thanks and appreciation and include it. That’s probably the best gift they can receive. This is not a pro war statement -strictly about the troops!

By David Wright

December 20, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

yes. yes. after 22 oz., these denizens are done for. definitetely time for these lightweights to say when after 22 oz. what a bunch of Two Can Sams.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

In case you missed it, Keith Richards turned 64 on Wednesday.

One word: Amazing.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

Thrillhouse

The Frenchy line was a joke too. Hang in there. No bad feelings.

BTW- I’m sure Frenchy’s agent has his sights set on that $55 mil deal (which is going up every day the Braves wait). Better lock that boy up or he’ll cost ya $70 mil over 5. That’s the going rate and I doubt he’ll discount it much to live across the street from his old high school.

Daybed um.. I think you missed the joke. We’ll all give you a minute to catch up. If you still need directions just read DE’s 10:32 post. If you still don’t get it -well then we’re done.

By Thrillhouse44

December 20, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

Agreed, Anders. I have a buddy in Iraq right now and he seems to be more homesick now than ever. If given the opportunity to do something for the troops, please take advantage and let them know we care.

By Kentavo

December 20, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

I bet Frenchy will sign with BoSox when he gets a chance.

By BB FAN

December 20, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Anders,

If you meant what it seems like you meant with your comment about Dale Earnehardt, then are a very sick individual. That is why everybody jumps all over you…you have no shame.

And what else do you expect when you are on a Braves blog bragging about the Mets finishing ahead of the Braves 2 years out of the last 16.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

December 20, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Man, its been a tough year for Arthur Blank. His star quarterback is fighting Lassie and killing the Taco Bell dog. His coach just up and quit on him after telling him that he was “his man” and there for the long haul. Guess that long haul he meant was only 10 minutes. Then, he thinks he has Bill Parcels who spurns him for Miami. Wow!

Sure wish the guy could buy the Braves. He is a bit meddlesome and thinks he knows it all but he wants to win and is willing to spend whatever it takes to do it. He could make the Braves that power again they once were!

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

December 20, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

DAP , nope. Brandon Jones doesn’t play CF or I should say that the Braves don’t believe he has the athleticism to play CF in the big leagues.

Francoeur is set in RF , but it is possible he could see some limited time in CF if push comes to shove.

I still think the Braves want to find a quality veteran CF.

Gregor Blanco is the real dark horse candidate to win a job in spring training. He is currently hitting .338 with 4 HR’s 14 RBI and 5 stolen bases for the Sharks in the Venezuelan winter league.

By 22oz

December 20, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Agreed on the Earnhardt comment. Too low Anders.

By nOLIE

December 20, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

I’ve noticed a coupla stories saying that the Mets are close to signing Lohse. Boy that is a scary addition….for them!

By DAP

December 20, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

Coach actually, yeah, b. jones can play CF if he has to. would only play there for the braves in case of emergency, which is exactly what i said. remember, chipper played a little SS in 2007.

there will only be 4 out fielders: Francouer, Diaz, Jones, and starting CF. if the CF cant start for whatever reason, infante will be the first choice to back him up, second would be francouer and b. jones could play right, and, if need be, jones would play center.

i dont think it will come to that, because it would take infante and francouer both getting hurt in the same game bad enough to not play any more.

weather or not b. jones can play CF is not even the point. the point is there is no need to worry about the roster and who the backup CF is. its infante.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

BB Fan, 22 Oz. and Dale Earnhardt

Fair enough - My apologies. Shouldn’t have crossed that line - even in fun.

By McFann

December 20, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

For heaven’s sake, I’m not 15.

By Blabberin Braves Forum

December 20, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Hey guys.

Really would love to have some members for my new Braves forum. If you want to sign up: http://blabberinbraves.9.forumer.com

Thanks to any who sign up. Staff needed!

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 20, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

anders - wow. that was classy pause not. i’m not a nascar fan at all, but a remark like that is rather low no matter whom you’re offending.

By Marsh

December 20, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

Been reading the blog for a long time. First time to type something, though. Really enjoy it, Dave. Keep up the good work.

What is your take on the Mark Redman deal by the Rockies? Did we just catch him at a bad time last year? Or, did he just happen to run into some luck late in the season with the Rockies? Think it was wise move by them?

By Lew

December 20, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

Anders-Of course you didn’t know what it means. You usually are clueless in the extreme, aren’t you? Now don’t go getting all bent out of shape. It had nothing to do with saying nasty things about you. It was all about saying nasty things about you CREATIVELY. However, everyone who won seems to be happy about it, so I guess the competition was a success. BTW-Don’t you wish YOU had a Wurlitzer under your Christmas tree next week? Keep wishing. You and David Wright will just have to go without-but maybe Wright will lend you his Nobel Peace Prize. Unless, of course, Wright would be willing to trade an autographed bat for the museum. He can then have the distinction of being the only Met represented (unless you count that Bobby Bonilla baseball-but he was a Brave at the time).

Have an enjoyable and safe Christmas, though. Like someone said, we need a target-though Metro Dude is rapidly closing the gap in the race for Mets jack@$$ of the year-especially now that NoBrainZone and the Drooling Moron are gone. Happy Holidays, Dude.

By David Wright

December 20, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

That’s the going rate and I doubt he’ll discount it much to live across the street from his old high school.

No. I don’t think Frenchy has his sights on the land across the street from his high school - it being the former property of the former Grand Wizard of the KKK and all. No lie.

By Lew

December 20, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

McFann-No matter how old you are, you need to email me to claim your Wurlitzer. lewhartman@comcast.net

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

December 20, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

I agree, Coach. If another CF isn’t acquired (which I have a feeling one will be and soon), then I think the job is Blanco’s to lose. Honestly, I don’t think the Braves want Schafer to win the job. They want him to get another year of seasoning in the minors like B. Jones did. Probably want him to spend a couple of months in Greenville and the rest of the season in Richmond ala Dan Smith and Brent Lillibridge.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 20, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

anders — i didn’t see your 11:38 comment before responding…your apologies are appreciated, and the type of mature, responsible behavior that David Wright would be proud of. ;)

By TennesseePaul

December 20, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

Sheeesh. Take a step back for a day or so and the blog goes nuts, Wulitzers going everywhere. The need for a long term solid starter to carry the team from today into the future when we hope all these rookie and AA pitchers will be ready is brought up again, and not by me. The Sliva contract analyzed against the Hudson deal. And the Haren rumblings from Rosenthal.
I’m bummed I missed out on the Wurlitzers.

I’m glad to hear the Braves at least inquired about Haren. I wish it had been sooner in the process. It’s funny though. Bean specifically mentions the Hudson deal as a reason he went for quantity over quality this time. From what I’ve read anyway, the take seems to be that there are a couple of good prospects and one with a chance to be a star, but the rest should level out to adequate major league players.
Anyway, Bean himself is admitting he didn’t get a good deal on the Hudson trade. His word was “myopic” when describing the way they went about the trade. That’s a bit of an understatement, but it isn’t easy to swallow your pride after being a national sensation with a well publicized book on the subject.
As long as the Braves at least looked into Haren, perhaps, or hopefully, they’ll at least look into Bedard as well. It wouldn’t hurt to look.

By Chopdawg

December 20, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

I guess that MIA album “Kala” is about Isaiah Ka’aihue, right?

By Lew

December 20, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

TePaul and any Other Denizen who missed the Wurlitzer Blitz last night-E mail me at the address above (see 11:48 post), with real name, blog name and snailmail address and I’ll send you a hand colored print. Choice of Chipper, Glavine, Smoltz, Javy, Johnny Cash or the Sid Slid Play. Won’t get it until after the first of the year, but that just prolongs the holidays.Merry Christmas all. I love this blog. Even with Anders and MetroDude hanging out.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Lew

Since it is the holiday season and I have repented on here once already today - I didn’t get the CREATIVE thing as opposed to nasty. Now I do. I honestly still don’t know what the winner’s expression means but that’s OK. Appreciate being part of your fun. As for your Wurlitzer’s, I have an idea for your next one. It would be of Tom Glavine arriving back to Atlanta with bags of NY $’s. Chipper could be picking him up at the train station in Dale Murphy’s old pick up truck, representing the guys who stayed in Atlanta for less $’s welcoming the mercenary pitcher back into the fold. In the background could be Tex buying a ticket north with huge empty bags. Kind of “Circle Of Life” theme.

Your Nobel Peace Prize line was funny.

BTW- Guess who the Mets drafted with the pick they received from the Rockies when Hampton bolted for their school systems? None other than Sir David Wright! My new favorite Brave - Mike Hampton.

Happy holidays to you and yours too. Not too many prettier places to be than in Vermont for Christmas. Enjoy.

By geauxbraves2000

December 20, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

I was 15 once. Come to think of it, I’m approaching 15 for the third time. Where does the time go?

Merry Christmas everyone!!

Geaux Braves!!

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 20, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Afternoon all, things are kind of slow when the biggest news is about David Wright. I think Ryan Zimmerman has a bigger up side. Does make me wonder who the Braves have in mind for the third base position when Chipper leaves for good.

Hopefully Atlanta can get a few more good years out of our venerable old Hoss….

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

December 20, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Gil, what about Van Pope? Could he be a viable replacement for Chipper some day.

By The Ole Pro

December 20, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

I read this blog to get AB news,not MTV news.

Let’s stick to baseball fellas.

There are other places to go for music stuff.

By rich brave

December 20, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Tennessee Paul:

I guess your 11:56 a.m. post on lomg-term fixes of SP is in reference to DOB’s and my exchange from yesterday. Have you found the gathered prognosticators of this blog less than receptive to your statements? You sounded so defensive. No worries mate. You won’t catch any crap from me on that score.

Great arms don’t come along every year, and the prices just keep climbing. Braves gotta’ have a solid nucleus of SP to survive. Next year? There’s always next year! Hopefully before some Rick Mahler clone becomes the MAINSTAY of the pitching staff.

Have things changed in MLB? Is it possible for a team to “steal” a Hudson anymore? Or have some of the best arms flown to riches in the AL leaving the talent pool thin in the NL? Is it possible that the NL will become a poor step-child of the AL in the future due to monetary constraints?

I’m merely postulating here on the whys of Atlanta’s reluctance to pull the trigger NOW on a blockbuster deal with a true mainstay of SP. I understand the reluctance after Mike Hampton’s foilables. $$$$ are a terrible thing to waste, after all. But just the same, they are in the professional baseball business. You must place your dough and take your chances ultimately. Here’s hoping the moves made to the present and the ones to be made in the spring and ‘08 bear ripe and not bitter fruit.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Van Pope hasn’t hit much yet (there was a reason he went unprotected and still didn’t get taken in the Rule 5 draft)…

Marsh, I think Redman will get rocked on a regular basis at Coors Field. He had a few good games for the Rockies late, but I won’t believe he’s got much left until I see it over the course of a season, or even a half-season. While he was here, he looked absolutely done….

Anders, can’t believe you wrote that about Earnhardt, on a blog that originates from the middle of NASCAR country, a blog that follows a baseball team that’s identified more with the South than any other team in pro sports.

We have unofficial rules here, but some other things are just understood to be off-limits and out of bounds, my friend.

By nOLIE

December 20, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

TePaul and any Other Denizen who missed the Wurlitzer Blitz last night-E mail me at the address above (see 11:48 post), with real name, blog name and snailmail address and I’ll send you a hand colored print. Choice of Chipper, Glavine, Smoltz, Javy, Johnny Cash or the Sid Slid Play.Lew

I gotta say that’s a wonderful gesture Lew.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

By the way, Brandon Jones’ shoulder was merely bruised after that injury in winter ball that sent him home to Florida for a checkup with Braves docs. They didn’t believe it was serious but wanted to make sure, so they brought him back to have it checked out. Docs found no damage, just bruised.

By nOLIE

December 20, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

Isee that the Phantastic Phillies just signed Jenkins. Things are gradually falling into shape for the NL East teams. I’ve never thought all that much of the guy so I’m glad they got him instead of trading for a better player

By ObiWanKobe

December 20, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

Can’t believe I forgot to make David Wright’s debut CD my top album of the year, decade, century, ever, EVER!

By TennesseePaul

December 20, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

Rich: No defensiveness. None at all. I’ve brought it up on several occassions this offseason. And several others have agreed. Just glad to see another one.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 20, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

Robert, I cannot give you an honest evaluation on Van Pope as I have not seen him play. Anything I would have to offer would be hearsay and speculation.

Wes Timmons on the other hand I have seen several times. Nice little ball player but does not strike me as a major league third baseman, at least not yet. He is very good defensively but not the “knock your socks off” kind of impact player like a Bob Horner or Chipper Jones or even Ryan Zimmerman.

Still, I think the Braves are about two years way from having to make the move that will close out the Chipper Jones era in Atlanta. I the mean time I will keep looking.

By DAP

December 20, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Gil in Mechanicsville i dont follow you on zimmermann having more upside than wright.

i think they both are and will be very good players, but wright is clearly better, and when (but not until) chipper retires, wright will be the new king of NL 3rd baseman. (or maybe not even then, because wright might be up for free agency and sign with an AL team…or maybe the braves!)

By TNRON

December 20, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

I heard that David Wright once went thru the drive-thru at Burger King,ordered a Big Mac,and got it.

By nOLIE

December 20, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

I think Ryan Zimmerman has a bigger up side. Gil

Gotta say that I really don’t see that. Would you care to explain what makes you think that?

By DAP

December 20, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

the phillies could have done alot worse than jenkins. hes got some power. i guess this means victorino will be playing CF. they still have a great offensive team, but it looks slightly less formidable without rowand in there.

By N8

December 20, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

Not sure if anybody has linked this yet, but Si.com has the NL rotations ranked. Here’s what it says about the Braves rotation: Link

*”Two keys to Atlanta’s rotation, Smoltz and prodigal son Glavine, are each more than 40 years old, and Hampton hasn’t pitched in a regular season game in more than two seasons. Jurrjens and Reyes are up-and-coming but unproven. And yet, as you’ll see, this group qualifies as the best group of starters in the NL East.

Sorry Mets fans, but even the pundits see what we’ve been telling you since we took Glavine back from you. Of course if you guys trade for Johan Santana, that would change things a bit. But until you do…..

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

Ole Pro, simply not much, if any, Braves news the week before Christmas, so you probably will want to check back next week. In the meantime, we’re gonna discuss what we’d like, if that’s alright by you.

So by popular (or unpopular) demand, I’m gonna print my Next 25 Favorite CDs from 2007 in tomorrow’s blog, which would be Nos. 26-50, and that’ll wrap it up. I’m doing it because I got a few more CDs this week, two of which would’ve made my top 25, and because I had a couple of oversights on my first list, such as forgetting that the Graham Parker CD came out in March (I was thinking late 2006), and because, frankly, it was a damn good music year and I found 25 more titles today that I liked almost as much as the 25 I listed Monday, including a couple that I actually like more. Anyway, 25 more CDs coming tomorrow. Those who don’t like it, simply skip over it, please. It ain’t that hard to do….

Ole Pro, in late December would you prefer we continue to debate 24 hours a day the merits of the Braves pursuing another starting pitcher and what might happen to Scott Thorman? For some here, it feels like that ground has been covered ad nauseum and until there’s a new development, really not much more to say.

And you gotta understand, I’m supposed to be taking some down time this time of year, comp time to balance out the long work weeks for nine months of the year. So I’m trying to do that around covering Braves actual news and blogging. But that’s why you don’t see a lot of Q&A’s with Chuck James and that sort of thing here in late December. Just trying to get some time off before full-immersion begins again late next month, when we start preparing for Camp Roger followed by six weeks of spring training and … well, you know the drill.

And with all that’s going on with the Falcons this winter, and staff cutbacks and folks taking vacations and Carroll also backing up other pro sports, there hasn’t been a lot of manpower or space in the paper for Braves stuff in the past couple of weeks. Of course, if they make any actual moves or have news, I have and will continue to cover it. But just taking a bit of a breather here, otherwise….

By the way, Frank Wren reiterated when I asked him about a possible extension for Teixeira yesterday, and whether the Braves have thought about or begun to talk to him about an extension this winter, and in the GM’s words: “I don’t and won’t have any comments on that.”

Since this negotiation will be at the highest level (Wren), and since Teixeira wouldn’t give out his phone number to Atlanta reporters (the quote you saw from him this week on MLB.com came from a Rangers reporter he knew for many years playing in Texas), then it’s likely that any updates on possible contract talks (of which I’ve been told there have been none), might have to come from Teixeira’s agent.

And I know there are a couple of you here who don’t like when I quote Scott Boras, or don’t believe anything he says, so that doesn’t leave a lot of options for updates in that matter.

By sri

December 20, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

An interesting article on NL rotations on CNNSI. I think it highlights the fact that we are not as deep in our rotation as we would like to think.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/jon_weisman/12/20/nl.rotations/index.html

Please dont trade Chuck for a stopgap outfielder or a lefty reliever..

By MGL

December 20, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Interesting rankings of NL pitching on SI. http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/jon_weisman/12/20/nl.rotations/index.html

By DAP

December 20, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

Gil youre giving chipper 2 years? i know hes had some injuries dude, but he shows no signs of slowing down his production!

i doubt very highly he will be done after ‘09… my guess he will be full time at least through the ‘10 season, and probably beyond. i dont think it would be crazy to think he will play till he’s 40. (that would be during the ‘12 season) who knows though. right now, he’s still one of the best players in the majors and we have no business talking about him being done.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

DAP, I agree with you on Chipper — I’m guessing he plays 3B for the Braves at least through 2010, barring, of course, some dramatic slip in production or defensive ability in the next two seasons.

By the way, someone asked about Willy Aybar’s options situation. He’s OUT of options. So he makes the team or is traded, because he’d certainly get claimed off waivers if the Braves tried to go that route.

By dgd

December 20, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

Glad to hear Brandon Jones is OK. What about Bennett? Others have implied that he got hurt in winter ball, but I haven’t seen anything on that. Glad to see all of the music reviews, I will check some of those out. Here in DC we have no radio station that plays most of those bands, and in my household with a 9-year-old daughter, I’m afraid we hear a lot of Hannah Montana and Jonas Brothers…….

By ChipChopper

December 20, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

DOB, do we need to be concerned about the bullpen? I can understand letting Mahay go since he was due for relatively big bucks and since Mike Gonzalez will be back, but why let Paronto get away? He’s been a pretty reliable and important cog the past couple of years, hasn’t he? Mahay gone, Paronto gone, Ascanio gone—sure hope we’re not heading back to the ‘06 woes. Any insights on our ‘08 bullpen?

By N8

December 20, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

DOB, Anders and all involved in the Ehrnhardt “comment”

Here’s my take. I don’t think he was doing much more than cracking a joke (a rude one at that, but a joke none the less).

As for the unwritten rules? Not sure I follow that. Poking fun at a tragic accident should be off limits in life (not just the blog), unless it’s something stupid like a guy free falling from the Empire State Building without his shute opening. Or maybe a better example would be one of those silly magician guys locking themselves in a box and burying it in 6 feet of dirt and “escaping”. If one of those guys died, they would deserve to be made fun of a bit.

To some extent, DE knew what he was getting into. Does he deserve to be made fun of? Probably not. Have I cracked any jokes about him? I have not.

I have however cracked the occasional Kurt Cobain joke. Find it hard to dig deep inside and feel sorry for a guy that had EVERYTHING that I dreamed of having growing up, and still fantasise about (being a rockstar). So when a guy like that takes his own life, I find it ironic/comical as opposed to tragic like most of the world thinks.

DOB, as for saying: “…on a blog that originates from the middle of NASCAR country…”

I’m aware of that, but at the same time, without seeing the login details and knowing exactly where people are from, I would say that the great majority of the regular bloggers are from elswhwere in the country and might not take the Nascar experience as seriously as others. Not saying that makes it Wright (had to get that in there), or wrong either way.

But I would like to think that IF somebody was offended by Anders’ comment, it was due to being offended by him mocking HUMAN life and tragedy, rather than being offended because the life that was lost, was that of a Nascar driver.

Just my two cents (in long form of course). :-)

By TennesseePaul

December 20, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Those SI rankings are interesting. I recall prior to 2007 the Dodgers were near the top with “the best rotation of the NL”. Then we all watched them slip down to second to last in their division, effectively 1 win away from .500.
I think Smoltz will do well this season. I hope Hudson will. He certainly improved over the previous season. Glavine could be good. I’m banking on his “rivalry” with Smoltz to be inspiring for the both of them. And I’m really pulling for James to be in the rotation over Jair or JoJo. Especially JoJo. I hope we don’t see that guy again until September call-ups. If Hampton actually pitches it’ll be an improvement. I have this feeling he’ll come out, toe the slab, then morph into Mark Redman and go on the DL with wip-lash in his neck and more arm issues.

By Lew

December 20, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

Anders-That Wright for Hampton pick reminds me that we got Chipper as the number one pick of the draft, when Todd Van Poppel refused to be drafted and signed by the Braves. Who do you think got the best of THAT decision? Wonder which, in hindsight, the Mets would rather have happened?

All joking aside-I really don’t think Wright deserved the Gold Glove, but from all accounts, he is an asset to his community and seemingly a pretty darn good guy. Not sure he’s my candidate in the 08 Elections, though. Enough New Yorkers running as it is.

By Dale Earnhardt

December 20, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

I’m more insulted that these rubes can’t spell my damn name right. Chrissakes, man, I’m a damn legend. It is Earnhardt. As for Anders, don’t worry ‘bout that boy. The Intimidator will teach him what we mean when we say rubbin’ is racin’ when that little peckerwood joins me in heaven.

By Roman Gal

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

Just got back from the elementary school Christmas Talent Show. My neighbor did an excellent job, unfortunately she only came in second place because David Wright was there and took home the gold. But I must say, he looks excellent in a tu-tu.

By DAP

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

I agree, not a good idea to trade chuck james unless we include him in a package to get a good starter, like bedard.

but we are 4th in the NL behind three team we dont play much, so our chances of making the post season are pretty good.

however, i dont think this thing is to scientific. the dodgers only ranked ahead of the braves because of thier QUANTITY of pitchers, not the QUALITY of the them, and i strongly disagree with his ratings of the brewers pitchers.

By Lew

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

Anders-However, if he does run, do you think you could sign Guiliani to play third?

By N8

December 20, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

TNRON

“I heard that David Wright once went thru the drive-thru at Burger King,ordered a Big Mac,and got it.”

Rumor has it that they liked him so much they gave him the lead role in his very own BK commercial.

David Wright BK Commercial

For those who haven’t seen this before…enjoy. It’s funny. For those who have…Enjoy is again…it’s STILL funny.

By BosnianBaller

December 20, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

I’m suprised wren asked about a trade for haren according to k.rosenthal.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry, but just when you think it’s getting redundant and tired, someone like Roman Gal drops in another D.W. reference that makes me smile….

By Anders

December 20, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Lew

All joking aside-I really don’t think Wright deserved the Gold Glove, but from all accounts, he is an asset to his community and seemingly a pretty darn good guy. Not sure he’s my candidate in the 08 Elections, though. Enough New Yorkers running as it is.

I never fully disagreed with people saying he didn’t deserve the Gold Glove. However, I don’t think it’s as outrageous that he did as many have expressed. That said, I did have a problem with Chipper’s comments strictly from I found them to be disingenuous with all his, (and I’m paraphrasing) “I didn’t mind losing but I’m suprised to who” etc… Speaking of unwritten codes there was no need for that. Whatever happened to just tipping your cap and moving on which was always Chipper’s style? I’ve certainly let it go but certain folks on here invoke Wright references on here daily so I choose to return in kind for fun. If there’s an unwritten rule about that I will have to apologize yet again! It’s all meant in good fun. I have the utmost respect for Chipper.

As for New Yorkers running for President, there’s only one - Rudy. Not sure I’d vote for him even being from here.Sir Hillary is actually from Chicago by way of Arkansas. Not to worry about her though. Seems Big Bill can’t help himself and he’s stepping all over her campaign and mucking it up by overshadowing her.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

N8, just having a little fun. But don’t you even think of making any jokes about The King (either Elvis or Richard Petty). Dammit….

By the way, David Wright doesn’t sleep, he waits….

(OK, that’s actually cheating — I’m just cribbing from the Chuck Norris list….)

By Lew

December 20, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Nathan-That’s just because Burger King discontinued the Whopper.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

I’ll check on Jeff Bennett, but I think he was only scheduled to pitch that portion of the winter ball season, not the entire season. Like Thorman, who left after about 5-6 weeks of winter ball. Most American players aren’t there for the duration, especially pitchers.

Frank Wren is skiiing in Utah with his family for a few days, so might not get a reply to my query until tonight.

By Lew

December 20, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Anders- Where’s Pat Paulsen when we really need him? Even dead he might be a better….well maybe I better not go there. Hell. Maybe David Wright IS a better option. Have we ever had a third baseman as President?

By Fight Club

December 20, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

Where’s Pat Paulsen when we really need him?

His name is Robert Paulson.

By Saltywoody

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

When David Wright jumps in a lake, he doesn’t get wet. The water gets David Wrighted.

By Lew

December 20, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Fight Club-Pat Paulsen was a comedian associated with the Smothers Brothers who ran a semi serious (I think-maybe not) campaign for President during the 70’s. Not sure who you’re talking about.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Just came across the CNN wire:

Jamie Lynn Spears has announced that David Wright is the father of her expected child.

Hey - When in Rome. (Italy not Georgia)

By Saltywoody

December 20, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Omar Minaya told me that David Wright uses tabasco sauce for eyedrops.

By Fight Club

December 20, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Fight Club-Pat Paulsen was a comedian associated with the Smothers Brothers who ran a semi serious (I think-maybe not) campaign for President during the 70’s. Not sure who you’re talking about.

His name is Robert Paulson.

By Saltywoody

December 20, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

David Wright doesn’t read books. He just stares them down until he gets the information he wants.

By N8

December 20, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

DOB

Sorry to go all “epic post” on you and others.

I actually thought you were getting all pompous on us for cracking at the Intimidator. :-)

No harm intended. I had to go back and look at your post. I thought you said I can’t make fun of Elvis or Tom Petty. But then upon further review, I realized you said Richard Petty.

Freaked me out for a second. I was pretty sure that I didn’t miss Tom Petty’s death. LOL!

By Roman Gal

December 20, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

DOB, your comment about Wright being the only rookie that could pull that off was great. It caught me completely off guard and made me laugh.

By Saltywoody

December 20, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

David Wright gave Mona Lisa that smile.

By Ken

December 20, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

who ran a semi serious (I think-maybe not) campaign for President

Stop picking on that crazy loon Cynthia McKinney.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Lew Did you see the Ralph Nader special on Independent Lens on PBS this month? Good stuff. Not saying I’m a Nader Raider or anything but seeing how he was treated in the last two Presidential elections by both major parties was quite an eye opener.

By Lew

December 20, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Fight Club-Again, I’m not sure who you’re talking about. The person I’M talking about is Patrick Layton Paulsen, 1927-1997. He was a very simple person -comedian whose humor was very subtle and self effacing.

By Saltywoody

December 20, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

David Wright’s tears can cure cancer. Too bad David Wright never cries.

By mo in the boonies

December 20, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Has anyone noticed that the Cubs signed F*kudome to be their RF guy for 4 years and 48 mil?

By Fight Club

December 20, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Fight Club-Again, I’m not sure who you’re talking about. The person I’M talking about is Patrick Layton Paulsen, 1927-1997. He was a very simple person -comedian whose humor was very subtle and self effacing.

His name is Robert Paulson.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 20, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Hi folks, I did not intend to stir up a hornet’s nest with my Chipper Jones comment, after all, it is just an opinion. No one is a bigger fan of Chipper than myself but I am just being a realist. If Chipper were in the AL he might be able to play longer as a DH but I think with the crackdown by MLB on “The Fountain of Youth” will cut short more and more careers.

I hope I am wrong and Chipper Jones can play for the Braves at a very high level for years to come but I just don’t think it is going to happen. If we are still around in three years, you can all tell me “I am and idiot”. :-)

On my bold statement about Ryan Zimmerman, he is far superior to Wright as a defensive player, has power and is still growing in the position. he did not have the same type of protection around him as a batter so teams pitched around him a lot.

He is a player that the Nationals are building their team around. If he were playing in New York, he would be the guy getting the press.

A lot of folks don’t realize Zimmerman played much of this past season hurt. Sorry if it flies in the face of some of you folks’ sensibilities but after watching both Wright and Zimmerman play, I would pick Zimmerman. At least he has better taste in footwear.

Hey, you don’t have to agree. Anymore than the fact that I thought Chipper Jones played a better defensive third base this year than any I can remember and if I had a vote, I would have given him a gold glove.

By DAP

December 20, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

N8 richard petty isnt dead either is he?

By Michael

December 20, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

WRIGHT & CLINTON (2008)

By Lew

December 20, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Anders-Missed that one. I always admired Nader as a consumer spokesperson and advocate-he was definitely one of the best ever-as a candidate? Not so much.

By DAP

December 20, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

mo in the boonies yeah i had noticed that. they have turned from being a sad team in ‘06 to a really good team in ‘07 to a very formidable team in ‘08.

ok, so that didnt make any sense, point is, the cubs have gotten alot better.

By David-ATL14

December 20, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

All the David Wright and Chcuk Norris syaings are just copying the actual Master: Bill Brasky.

Funniest recurring skit in SNL’s rich history.

By Lew

December 20, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

DAP-King Richard is definitely a class guy. I had made arrangements when I was in the Carolinas, some years back, to take a painting to him for the Petty Museum. He was not able to make the meeting, but called me HIMSELF to cancel, so I didn’t make the trip for nothing and miss him. Met Kyle, too, who is also a great guy.

I’ve never been a huge NASCAR fan, but with the artwork, I have met quite a number of the drivers at one time or another. To a person, they were the nicest group of pros I ever had the pleasure of meeting. Very accommodating and down to earth people. Never too busy or self important to sign your memorabilia, or just carry on a conversation with you.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

Lew

Watch for it on PBS. Nader couldn’t agree with you more on him being a poor candidate. He was basically forced into it in the beginning. He took to it because he really saw how bad the two major parties were treating him to control the election system. Fro then on he wanted to expose the hypocrisy for what it is. Definetly worth two hours of your life no matter what your political affiliation. Almost scary.

By DAP

December 20, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

gil in mechanicsville i definitely agree with you that zimmerman hits way better in a decent lineup.

however, stats dont really support your claim that he is much better defensively. he might be a little better, but its not significant. i’d take wright over zimmerman.

id take chipper over both of them! :-)

By Lew

December 20, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Anders-I will watch for it-especially since I broke down and got an HD TV. I never knew they actually had the scores of the game in the corner of the screen.

If he was so bad, I wonder why he went for it the second time around? A lot of people blame him for the way things have turned out since 2000. Not too sure that they’re wrong.

By WarParty

December 20, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Excellent information from DOB. Thanks for keeping us apprised of what’s happening.

By David-ATL14

December 20, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

Somehow I just can’t picture David Wright as the esteemed Bill Brasky in this scenario:

Did I ever tell you about the time Brasky took me out to get a drink with him?

We go off looking for a bar and we can’t find one.

Finally Brasky takes me to a vacant lot and says with a wry grin “Here We Are”.

We sat there for a year and a half,and sure enough someone constructs a bar around us.

The day they opened we ordered a damn shot, drank it, and then burned the damn place to the ground.

Brasky yelled over the roar of the flames ” Always leave things the way you found them”

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

December 20, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

The Phillies sure downgraded didn’t they. Geoff Jenkins? I think I would rather have Rowand.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

Lew They cover that in the special. I’ll let you draw your own conclusions as I understand we shouldn’t talk politics on here (which I agree with).

On a baseball note. What do you think is happening with Santana. I have to say the longer he sits the better I like it for obvious reasons. I still don’t think the Sox want to pay him but I don’t have a read on wether the Yanks are for real going with youth or they’re just lying in the weeds.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

Robert JIB

I’m sure the Phillie fans are saying pretty much the same thing about the Braves CF spot. Point is, they didn’t want to pay Rowand like the Braves didn’t want to pay AJ. Both have merit.

By QuentinMcCracken

December 20, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

The heat will now be turned up on Roger Clemens until he roasts in hell. The old saying says that if you cant stand the heat, get out of the kitchen. Truth be told, Roger has been pitching, juiced up from Hells Kitchen for 23 years. Additionally, Clemens has been cheating since 1984 when he came into the league with the Boston Red Sox. As fellow statesman and second fiddle sore loser pitcher Curtis Schilling stated yesterday, Roger Clemens should return at least three of his Cy Young trophies/awards and give them back to major league baseball in Cooperstown so that the rightful winners can be determined and desciphered. Hopefully, in determining the correct winners, maybe Schilling might get his first Cy Young, really the only thing missing from Schill’s illustrious career.

By Jared

December 20, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

David Wright-Cynthia McKinney 2008!

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 20, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

i wouldn’t have minded having jenkins. he’s a .277 hitter (.347 OBP/.496 SLG) with 212 HR over 10 seasons. he plays good defense. he strikes out at a pretty good rate and had a down year last year, but i think he’s still good.

By Lew

December 20, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Anders-From what I hear in the Red Sox Nation, the sticking point is that the Twins really want Jacobly Ellsbury and the Red Sox, would rather not part with him. I think there will be a deal done, but the Twins really need to consider doing it now, before everyone tells them to screw off. If they don’t do a deal, they will lose him for sure. With the improvement to the Tigers’ lineup, not so sure Santana (or the return of Liriano, for that matter) will get them any closer to another Division Title. The AL Central will likely be a two team race, but the Tigers and the Indians will be those teams-not the Twins. Trade him and be done with it.

By TEX MVP Bandwagon

December 20, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

I saw the link to S.I. above about NL pitching rotations and specifically the Braves in comparison to the rest of the league. I think Someone mentioned that it showed our lack of depth. However the article seems to imply differently.

Two keys to Atlanta’s rotation, Smoltz and prodigal son Glavine, are each more than 40 years old, and Hampton hasn’t pitched in a regular season game in more than two seasons. Jurrjens and Reyes are up-and-coming but unproven. And yet, as you’ll see, this group qualifies as the best group of starters in the NL East.

I’m a little surprised, but, then again, I’m not. And if someone already dissected this, I apologize for the rehash.

By sharpe95

December 20, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

Sorry I’m way late to this blog but DOB: no Ryan Adams’ Easy Tiger on your list? But nice call on Son Volt’s latest.

By Lew

December 20, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

Quentin McCracken-Not sure Schilling was ever more than a good, not great pitcher in anyone’s mind but his own. He certainly will fall way short of the HOF. He needs to learn to shut up, though.

You can’t pull anyone’s awards with no proof-which there is none of. People can look at weak first halfs and turned around second halfs all they want and it proves absolutely nothing. Does it mean that every player who turned around their season midway was a juicer (happens all the time, too)? As for the trainer, any decent law student could discredit his testimony in court-eg-

Defense Attorney-Mr. Trainer, did you make a deal for this testimony?

Prosecuter-Objection Your Honor.

Defense Attorney-Goes to witness credibility, Your Honor.

Judge-I’ll allow it, answer the question, Mr. Trainer.

Mr. Trainer-Yes, they offered me a deal for my testimony.

Defense Attorney- Do you have anything to offer in the way of proof other than what you claimed happened? Do you have any cancelled checks or shipping records?

Mr. Trainer-No I don’t

Case over.

As for MLB’s case-There were no rules prohibiting the use of these substances when Clemens was accused, so how can he be penalized for violating the rules?

Sorry, Dude. This is still America and without positive test results, there can be no MLB penalties. The Feds can try him if they want, but would likely need a lot more proof. You and others can plead righteous indignation all you want, but the fact remains, you SUPPOSE he did something wrong. You know nothing definitively. Can’t condemn him in anything but the court of public opinion. That’s just the way it is. Live with it and move on.

Quite honestly, re: Schilling, there is more chance of proving that the bloody sock Schilling wore during the series was paint than there is that Clemens juiced. All just allegations, aren’t they?

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

December 20, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

Anders, you have a point. The difference between the Phils and Braves right now is that the Braves pitching (both starting and bullpen is better) and whomever the Braves put in CF will wind up being at least as productive as Geoff Jenkins. Also, the Phils have not solved their 3B situation and I don’t think anybody trust Pat Burrell in LF.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

Lew That sounds reasonable. Earlier this month Heyman reported all the Mets had to do was add Fernando Martinez to the deal and it was done. He was wrong (again). The real report here in NY was that the Twins have asked for Reyes in every conversation and Minaya will not relent ( I agree with him). Twins have to have a pitching prospect in return (Reyes not withstanding) and the Mets don’t have one of elite value to give. The Sox know this and as long as they think the Yanks will stick to their youth movement they don’t have to over pay. The Twins risk is waiting too long and getting nothing as you say. The Mets only hope is a panic sale that they can up the ante with Martinez in the deal. Not good odds, but you never know.

By TEX MVP Bandwagon

December 20, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

To further clarify:

Obviously, by SI’s rating scale, having more pitchers could increase your “rating” since another pitcher could represent more points. So the additional “depth” could result in more points. But I don’t think this article highlighted that aspect of our rotation in any way.

But, even though the D-backs are ranked #1, “this group qualifies as the best group of starters in the NL East.”

Depth or no depth, thats seems to signify our staff as the best overall.

And, just my 2 cents, I’m going to state that I think Jurrjens will be awesome for us this year. And i base that on absolutely nothing at all, other than 2 bit of copper.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

Robert JIB

I wasn’t speaking for the rest of the Phillies situation, just how they handled CF. I see a lot of the same holes you do. But all three teams have their issues.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

December 20, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this

Anders, you are so right about the deal for Santana. Minaya would be a bigger idiot than I already think he is if he included Reyes in the deal. That makes no sense. Reyes is the heart and soul of that team.

If Santana gets traded, it will be to the Red Sox. Even with Crisp in the deal instead of Ellsbury the Sox offer is infinitely better than everyone else’s. Now, if the Yanks decide to offer Cabrerra, Hughes, and Kennedy then the Yanks offer is better.

By Roman Gal

December 20, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this

Most annoying commercials of 2007:

1. Diet Pepsi Max

2. Title Max

3. The Carmina Burana AJC commercial.

By Roman Gal

December 20, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

oh…and I forgot about the Zaxby’s commercial with Chip Caray.

By Jared

December 20, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

2009 Free Agent list here.

Teixeira is a free agent after 2008m but everyone knew that. Smoltz and Chipper Jones are possible but it’s certain the Braves will pick up both their options.

One thing that gets me is Rafael Soriano is on the list as a free agent after this upcoming season. I thought he wasn’t a free agent until after the end of the 2009 season. If this is true, are the Braves going to talk contract with him? Or do they plan on using Mike Gonzalez as their 2009 closer and beyond?

By Anders

December 20, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

Robert JIB The Red Sox deal might be better but again - you’re assuming that the Sox want to pay him $25 mil. Beckett will then have to match that shortly. Big Papi is well underpaid and coming due soon. Then Papelbon will want a taste and so on. I know Lew feels strongly that money is no issue for them and he has a point that they’re printing $’s but I’m not 100% convinced the Yanks or the Sox really want Santana at those ridiculous prices when they have young options at their disposal. I think if Santana left the league and they both kept their chips they wouldn’t lose any sleep over it. Self serving thoughts I know - but I have heard repeatedly on ESPN and other places that there’s doubt as to how serious the Sox really are. As for Reyes - If Santana had 5 years left on a reasonable contract, $12 mil per let’s say, you’d have to consider the deal( I still wouldn’t do it but I could understand looking at it). But you can’t trade Reyes and pay Santana $22 mil per for 6 or 7 years.

By Jared

December 20, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

Anders, you are so right about the deal for Santana. Minaya would be a bigger idiot than I already think he is if he included Reyes in the deal. That makes no sense. Reyes is the heart and soul of that team.

Yeah, who needs a multiple Cy Young award winning ace pitcher on a crumbling staff when you could have a leadoff hitter who’s done nothing outside of his good second-half in 2006 and led the NL in caught stealings and posted an OBP of .354 this past season….which frankly is not good for a spot in the order where OBP is the most important stat? Oh, and his career OBP is .334.

By N8

December 20, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

Anders

“Jamie Lynn Spears has announced that David Wright is the father of her expected child.”

While very funny….you are incorrect. Jim Rome reported that the father might be “that guy from Blues Clues”.

He was actually very funny yesterday mocking on the Spears sisters (and the mom). Rome can be over the top (most of the time), but when he gets going on something, I can hardly contain myself from laughing hysterically outloud.

By Jeff R

December 20, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this

Purely hindsight and guesswork, but the Braves might have been in the mix for Haren had they not acquired Tex last summer. Beane wanted quality prospects for Haren, and the Braves had just that before the Tex deal. No way to know if the now Rangers’ prospects would have met the A’s needs, but it’s food for thought.

By Jared

December 20, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this

Braves’ Starting Rotation Ranked 4th Best out of 16 in NL

Atlanta Braves (13 points)

• Above-average (6 points): John Smoltz, Tim Hudson

• Average to above-average (4): Tom Glavine, Chuck James

• Mystery (1): Mike Hampton

• Up-and-coming (2): Jair Jurrjens, Jo-Jo Reyes

• Below-average (0): Dan Smith, Jeff Bennett

Comment: Two keys to Atlanta’s rotation, Smoltz and prodigal son Glavine, are each more than 40 years old, and Hampton hasn’t pitched in a regular season game in more than two seasons. Jurrjens and Reyes are up-and-coming but unproven. And yet, as you’ll see, this group qualifies as the best group of starters in the NL East.

By Andrew Dice Clay

December 20, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this

Jill, what’s got your panties all wadded up tonight? Did Jack and Jill go up the hill, to fetch a pail of water, Jill the Shill forgot the pill, and now they have a daughter?

Or was it the one I told about Jack and Jill going up the hill each with a buck and a quarter and Jill coming down with $2.50, that little …… OOOH!

By Bryan

December 20, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

Here is the AP albums of the year list

Looks like it is a good mix of our lists. I can’t believe the Rilo Kiley is ranked 7th???

By Lew

December 20, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

Anders-I’m telling you-the Red Sox can and will pay Santana. There is absolutely no doubt about it. Good Lord, they paid $100 million just to talk to Dice K’s people. They paid his entire cost with ONE TShirt deal. Their merchandising is amazing -they even make money in every grocery store in New England.. They sell out their small stadium ( at exhorbitant ticket prices) each and every game. They have for years.

Believe me-they can pay him AND give Josh Beckett a raise. Why do you think they want to keep Ellsbury who is and will be cheap for years? Pedroia already costs them nothing. Getting rid of Crisp drops another $5 million. I tell you, their finances are no big deal.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 20, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

Yes Lew, some folks have not yet figured it out that you cannot out bid someone who has deeper pockets than you.

Cost and value are relative terms. Can and will depend on perspective. The only way you will have parity is for there to be revenue sharing and a salary cap.

With the elimination of TBS making the Atlanta Braves America’s team. Money will be a lot harder to come by as sales become more regional for the Braves.

Alas, Atlanta will become a “mid-major” team, always hoping for the perfect storm which will allow for them to compete with well financed and well stocked teams.

By Anders

December 20, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

Lew I tend to agree with you more now than I did a month ago. Minnesota seems to be blowing this thing. They need to create a bidding war. Instead it’s more like a wake.

By Overlord

December 20, 2007 8:30 PM | Link to this

Wonder how would the 4th ranked pitching team look in a World Series.

If the best cant handle the AL, how do we expect to handle them with oldies and rookies?

Our offense is good enough, but to this point pitching is nothing but from a mystery to a joke. Sad but true.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

I’ve been assured by the GM that Jeff Bennett is “fine.” He’s not injured.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 20, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

I hope Jeff just had a plane to catch then…. Maybe it was something in the water….

By Lew

December 20, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this

Gil-Just because the Braves are no longer affiliated with TBS, don’t get the idea that there will be no broadcasts or tv revenue. Fox sports will broadcast almost every single game on the MLB extra innings package and should be readily available in and around Atlanta. Such is the case for almost every team now. The Red Sox are on NESN (New England Sports Network), the Nats are on MASN (Mid Atlantic Sports Network). I’m not sure what the Braves is called, but that’s what Joe Simpson was on all last year with Boog.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

David-ATL, you’re right about those Bill Brasky skits on SNL. Great stuff.

A few of the best lines, at least the best ones that your AJC employee feels comfortable sharing with you here (feel free to substitute a certain larger-than-life Met’s name in place of Brasky whenever it works):

“One time I was with Brasky in the back of a pickup truck, along with a live deer. Brasky goes up to the deer and says, ‘I’m Bill Brasky! SAY IT!’ Then he manipulates the deer’s lips in such a way as to make it say, ‘Billbrasky’… It wasn’t exactly like it, but it was pretty good for a deer!’”

“He once breast fed a flamingo back to health.”

“I once saw him scissor kick Angela Landsbury.”

“He sheds his skin once a year.”

“I once saw him eat a whole live chicken.”

“His favorite movie is ‘One on One’ with Robby Benson.”

“He sleeps eight hours a night! …. Well, he was pretty normal when it came to that.”

“Bill Brasky was a two ton man-mountain who could palm a medicine ball!”

“Did I ever tell you about the time Brasky took me out to go get a drink with him? We go off looking for a bar and we can’t find one. Finally Brasky takes me to a vacant lot and says, ‘Here we are.’ We sat there for a year and a half and, sure enough, someone constructs a bar around us. The day they opened we ordered a shot, drank it, and then burned the place to the ground. Brasky yelled over the roar of the flames, ‘Always leave things the way you found ‘em!’”

“Bill Brasky had a four day heart attack…a day for each chamber. At the autopsy, they said his heart looked like a basketball filled with ricotta cheese.”

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

oh, why stop there….

“He once punched a hole in a cow just to see who was coming up the road.”

“They found $60 in change in his stomach.”

“He did all the makeup on The Planet of the Apes movie.”

“He grew a 3rd arm and kept it in a vault.”

“They say Gene Roddenbery got the idea for Star Trek from listening to Brasky talk in his sleep.”

“He once inhaled a seagull.”

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

… oh, OK, one last round (and this is it, I promise):

“Brasky named the group Sha Na Na. They did NOT want to be called that.”

“All the Yes album covers are Brasky family photos.”

“Did I ever tell you about the time he taught his son how to drive? He did it by entering him in the Indy 500. The kid wrecked and died. Brasky said it would’ve happened sometime.”

“He framed Roger Rabbit.”

“He uses Old Spice aftershave as nasal spray.”

“He brushes his teeth with a meat cleaver and rock salt.”

“They say he bleeds peppermint vodka.”

“Did I ever tell ya about the time that Brasky and I took a hot air balloon trip over Los Angeles? Brasky brings an atomic bomb and drops it on the city! Then, he looks at me and says, “It would have happened sooner or later.”

“His memoirs are tattooed on Ruth Buzzi.”

By superman

December 20, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this

I hate the off season. There is never anything worth watching on tv. What the hell is clash of the choirs? What do you guys watch?

By BossLady

December 20, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

Sports South

By Muggly Other

December 20, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

Carlos Silva gets 4 years at 12 Mil a year! Sub .500 last year with a 4.19 era and lifetime ERA over 4.

The more I see of these fringe potential pitchers making over 10 mil a year, the more of a bargain Glavine seems at one year for 8 mil.

Charley Finley made an observation when explaining one reason he sold the Oakland A’s back in 1980. He said it wasn’t the price of the star salaries that bothered him…. it was the high price of mediocracy. (mediocre players making big bucks)

He would definitely blow a gasket if he could see what was happening today.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

Anyone watching this Pitt-Duke game? What an incredible finish at Madison Square Garden.

Pitt’s rallied from double-digit defict in second half and it’s tied with 25 seconds to go. Duke just got the ball back, though, after Pitt missed an open shot with a chance to take the lead.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

Going to overtime now, after Duke missed a couple of point-blank shots in the final seconds….

By rich brave

December 20, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

GIL:

Are we to become the Pittsburgh of the NL East? No, no a thousand times no!!!! I’ve always felt the Braves could do more with less than any team in baseball. Their organization really is top drawer, but you already know that. I’m really disappointed the Braves have not as yet secured a monster starting pitcher and a huge bat. Yet ‘08 is not yet upon us, and if management has any plans we won’t know much before it actually happens. Maintain. We’ll get there. And ultimately, if we end up with lemons, just make lemonade. See you at the ballpark. Have a great holiday season.

My thesis advisor just reminded me that my work must be completed before August 1. Thank you all for allowing me a most pleasant diversion during one of the few depressive periods in my life. See you in ‘08, and more Braves chatter.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 20, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

Lew, it is not just the TV revenue, it is the loss of the fan base built up over the years. Or perhaps the diminishing fan base as each major league team is now able to stake out exclusive territories based on geography and not population.

Folks like myself who have been longtime Braves fans will shell out begrudgingly the extra cash each year over and above what we pay for cable service but with each passing year, I suspect fewer and fewer people will feel compelled to do the same.

It is not just the TV revenue either, you have said many times the Red Sox draw on other revenue streams such as Red Sox paraphernalia such as hats, jerseys and tee shirts.

The medium income per family also varies greatly between different geographical areas. This has a direct affect on expendable income relative to a team’s location. Even within the Commonwealth of Virginia, the medium income levels vary as much as 2x for exactly the same profession.

Bottom line is Boston and New York and LA will always be able to out spend Cleveland, Atlanta or Colorado.

By rich brave

December 20, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

DAVE:

Screw the thesis. Who is Bill Brasky? Reminds me of “The Great Grandfather” by Bo Diddley. Remember that song? Probably a little too early for you.

By Overlord

December 20, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

Superman i can recommend you to rent:

1. 24

2. Band of Brothers

3. Bourne trilogy

4. The Prestige

5. 30 days of night

6. Count of Montecristo

you could also watch science channel, national geographic or discovery channel.

I should also recommend playing CALL OF DUTY…… just amazing stuff.

also recommend 90s movies as…

1. Heat

2. Saving private ryan.

3. seven

if you like westerns TOMBSTONE is as must see…….it is even if you dont like westerns……state of the art.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

December 20, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

Gil , I would imagine that most American born players like Jeff Bennett have called it a season (winter ball) and come home for Christmas and the new year holiday.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 20, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

rich brave e mail me when you get the chance at elliotgm@aol.com. I hope you have a full recovery and keep the faith. Pittsburgh? No… I said mid- major, not triple A.

I look forward to calling you Dr. Rich Brave. :-)

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 20, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

Coach It was not his coming home early that bothered me. It was the stats on his last start…..

By Lew

December 20, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

Gil-You’re right, but…..If the seats at Turner Field end up with lots of butts in them, there will be money for the owners to spend. THAT’S what Liberty pointed to when they agreed to spend some more $$$$-the increase in attendance in recent years. If that stadium is packaed every game, I am certain the marquis players would be signed. However, with salaries going the way they are, I just don’t see the sense in spending all that money when your fan base is as fickle as the Braves’ is. You’d be surprised what might happen if they averaged 40-45,000 attendance every night.

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this

Gil, it’s one start in winter ball. After the number of good outings he had late last season and for most of winter ball, I wouldn’t get worked up over one start down there. Nobody will remember or care anyway, once spring training starts.

Oh, and just for the sake of accuracy: In the e-mail Frank didn’t say why Bennett left that game when he did, just said he’s fine now, not hurt.

I mean, it might have been a rain delay for all I know. Or he might have had a sore calf or whatever. But he’s not hurt now, if he was then. I’ll get a clarification later, but for now Wren’s on vacation with his family.

By Lew

December 20, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

Gil-One more thing- and this is certainly not a condemnation of you-with all this griping and fussing I hear people making about how the Braves won’t spend the big bucks, not once have I heard those same people urging others to buy season tickets, or even four game packages to support their team. It’s all been about Liberty just won’t spend all those $$$$$. It’s really a two way street. All the successful teams that spend the big $$$$ also have huge turnouts and many sellouts in their stadiums. Now certainly being in a place like New York or Chicago with their populations might have something to do with it, but Atlanta could very well put 40+ thousand in the seats every night-they’ve done it before and they do have a population of over 5 million, which is a substantial number of people. Atlanta is only a mid market team because they let themselves be one.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 20, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

No problem DOB I will be here all winter. Just a red flag when someone’s numbers are so good and then suddenly off the charts. I like Jeff Bennett and think he is a good addition to the Braves staff but you always worry when someone is still basically in rehab. It takes a couple of years for a pitcher to really come back to full strength after surgery.

By chrisklob

December 20, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

Gil, regarding your 7.46 post, I think it is safe to say that the Braves have already become a “mid-major” team. Payroll has been mired quite steadily in the middle of the pack for several years now.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

December 20, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

Ah ha…. “Taste the soup”

Lew Yes, I do not rag about the lack of money that the Braves are willing to pay, the Braves in the ’90s had extra money to spend because Ted Turner figured out that a winning team led to higher ratings, higher ratings led to more revenue for TBS. Money was spent on the team and they became competitive. In essence there was two sets of books but that is a topic for another night.

Bottom line, people don’t mind it as much if they see a return on their investment. They may gripe a bit about higher prices but if the team stunk they would not be able to fill the stadium if they gave tickets away.

Biggest problem I see with Atlanta is not making it very fan friendly for folks to get there. Bad planning to locate a stadium in a bad neighborhood with no parking.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

December 20, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

Ron Mahay’s signing with the Royals guarantee’s the Braves a draft pick right at the end of the first round.

Between the 31st and 35th pick , which is subject to change depending on where the rest of the free agents end up.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

December 20, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

I still believe that Johan Santana will end up in a Yankees uniform. Which puts Coco Crisp on the trade market.

But , I doubt that the Braves will do anything until the latter part of spring training because of the questions surrounding Mike Hampton.

The eight pitchers that the Braves are determined to take into spring training vying for spots in the rotation.

1. John Smoltz 2. Tim Hudson 3. Tom Glavine 4. Chuck James 5. Mike Hampton 6. Jair Jurrjens 7. Jo-Jo Reyes and 8. Jeff Bennett.

By brian

December 20, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

Santa is bringing my son one of the all sport (basketball, baseball throw, football throw, putting, etc) games that I will have to help put together.

3 guesses whose voice I will have to listen to with that thing. BooYah

By chrisklob

December 20, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

With all the grief that Stu Scott has received on this blog, it should be noted that he was recently diagnosed with colon cancer. Dude could probably use a little lovin’ from the denizens and a prayer or two.

Here’s the story

By David O'Brien

December 20, 2007 11:40 PM | Link to this

That’s awful. I had not heard that about Stuart Scott. Sounds like he’s got right frame of mind to beat this, if anyone can.

Chrisklob, that story you linked to doesn’t mention colon cancer. It says a malignancy around his appendix. Did you read colon cancer somewhere else?

Regardless, it’s obviously a serious condition, whatever he’s got.

By brian

December 20, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

Scott is in my prayers as most people’s I assume - cancer is a horrible disease. I am just thankful that he had appendicitis so they could find it. It sounds like they think they got all the cancer out - if it had not spread he will be fine. If it did spread it will be a long road ahead.

That being said, I am not looking forward to hearing his catch phrases as my son plays with his new ESPN game center

By brian

December 20, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

I assume it has to be an intestinal cancer or a lymphoma in that area. Also possible is a tumor on the kidney such as Ewing’s sarcoma. The colon cancer, isolated non-Hodgkins lymphoma node (like Butch Davis’s that was found by his dentist) or a renal tumor would be my guess. It sounds like his doctor’s believe it has not spread but want to do chemotherapy just in case it had started to spread microscopically.

Horribe for anybody to go through cancer. Stu’s grief on this blog is good natured ribbing for annoying catch phrases though picking on the eye might be a little harsh.

His appendicitis may have saved his life. That would be a Christmas miracle

By chrisklob

December 21, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this

DOB, I did, in fact, read that it was colon cancer. However, I did another search and found that it was NOT colon cancer but his appendix that had a tumor. A second operation was done to remove some surrounding tissue. Either way, it’s not good news. He does seem like a good candidate for survival though. He’s young and seemingly in good physical condition.

He’s not one of my favorites although I understand why he is a popular figure at ESPN. Either way, good thoughts and prayers are certainly in order for him.

By Jared

December 21, 2007 12:02 AM | Link to this

Am I missing or something or wasn’t there a post a couple of hours ago from David O’Brien talking about Christmas cards he recieved from the Red Sox and the Marlins? It talked about how one card was really nice and expensive while the other card was a cheap piece of garbage, or something close to that.

By Nolie

December 21, 2007 1:35 AM | Link to this

Superman i can recommend you to rent:

30 days of night Overlord

hows he gonna do that? It doesn’t come out for two months yet does it?

By Coach(Lets Go Braves In 2008)

December 21, 2007 1:42 AM | Link to this

This is for all you music lovers. Enjoy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLF9iEXnBRo&feature=related

By A-ville Ranger

December 21, 2007 1:56 AM | Link to this

I took a quick glance at Fuantes last three seasons stats.I didn’t break it down to home and away or other more telling numbers yet.From the basic numbers pitching in Denver they look real good.I don’t know his health situation,makeup,etc,in other words I’m ignorant but I’ll verse myself tomorrow then I’ll know all there is to know and some.

By Metropolitan Man

December 21, 2007 5:38 AM | Link to this

Just this little snipet of an article lets me know which team is still rising and which team is going the opposite way of the glory days.

Teixeira’s desire to remain near his wife’s family in Atlanta could certainly increase if he gets a chance to experience the postseason and compete for a World Series championship. But based simply on my current gut feeling, I’m thinking this will be his final year with the Braves.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

December 21, 2007 6:17 AM | Link to this

This is an excellent article from ESPN back in 2005 , kind of sets the stage for what we all know now.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2926447

By Nolie

December 21, 2007 6:26 AM | Link to this

ANALYSIS OF FASTBALLS,SLIDERS,CURVES AND CHANGEUPS ON HARDBALL TIMES/main/article/fastball-slider-changeup-curveball-an-analysis/

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

December 21, 2007 7:02 AM | Link to this

Incredible isn’t it ? To think that the entire career’s of both Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco were made possible by steroids.

Without these chemically enhancing substances , baseball had been labeled as being in the golden era of it’s history. Now , it will be forever known as the steroid era.

Bud Selig , your a horses arse.

By tlj

December 21, 2007 7:12 AM | Link to this

Many years ago when Archie Manning was starting his collegiate career at Ole Miss and had a lot of hype, Steve Kiner a LB at Tennessee made the following statement ” I know who Ole Miss is but who the heck is Archie Manning.” Now it’s my turn, I’ve heard of the NY Mets but who the heck is David Wright???

By Jimmy V

December 21, 2007 9:00 AM | Link to this

Yeah, I saw that Duke game. Helluva finish. Real clutch 3 pointer by David Wright to win that game for Pitt. yep. still beating the dead horse. but wait. david wright never dies. keep beating on him.

hawks are 13-12. first time over .500 this far into a season in 8 years. oh yeah!

thank goodness king arthur does not own the braves.

get better stuart scott & dick vitale. don’t give up! don’t ever give up! you too carol mcbrayer.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 21, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

DOB - i just noticed that you didn’t include Black Francis’ “Bluefinger” on your top 25 list. i thought i remember reading that you enjoyed it…will it be somewhere in the 26-50 range?

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

December 21, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

Some of you are too much. All you do is rip on Stuart Scott with your silly attack (some of which are personal) then when you hear has cancer all of a sudden your sympathetic and feel for the guy. Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease! I hate when people do that crap. Be real. If you didn’t like the guy when he was healthy then you don’t like him now. Him getting cancer shouldn’t change your opinion. He is going to be back on air tonight and I’m sure he will be the same as he always had.

What? Now that he has cancer all of his sayings (which I happen to like) are okay whereas two days ago they were obnoxious? Its just like when someone dies and people have all these nice things to say about them but had just called them a no good sob five minutes before they found they died. Just asinine!

By AdirondackDave

December 21, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this

Metro Man — Your gut feeling needs to be emptied somewhere else.

By Braves Fan in NYC

December 21, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this

DOB- Thanks for the excellent Braves coverage, looking forward to 2008.

Happy Holidays to all the denizens. Here’s my Top 20 or so albums of ‘07, in random order and subject to me inevitably missing one or two.

Ryan Adams “Easy Tiger” TV on the Radio “Return to Cookie Mountain” Kings of Leon “Because of the Times” Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings “100 Days, 100 Nights” Amy Winehouse “Back to Black” BOH “Cease to Begin” Jamie T “Panic Prevention” M.I.A. “Kala” Modest Mouse “We Were Dead…” New Pornographers “Challengers” Once Soundtrack Sondre Lerche “Phantom Punch”/”Dan in Real Life” soundtrack Spoon “Ga Ga Ga Ga” White Rabbits “Fort Nightly” Sunset Rubdown “Random Spirit Lover” Arcade Fire “Neon Bible” Wilco “Sky Blue Sky” The Bamboos “Rawville” Ghostland Observatory “Delete.Delete..” Bloc Party “A Weekend in the City” Alison Krause and Robert Plant “Raising Sand” The Bad Plus “Prog” The Selamanaires (represent ATL!)

By kdbanks

December 21, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this

Interesting show on Discovery channel last night that revealed some hidden truths about sports. Most interesting, I thought, is this:

David Wright has never actually hit a baseball. The balls are just terrified of the forcefulness of his swings, and go shooting off in the opposite direction when they realize it’s him swinging. It just happens so fast it looks like he hits it. Slow motion replays reveal it to be true.

Probably on demand for awhile if anyone wants to watch it.

By DAP

December 21, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

superman after baseball season is over, i watch alot college football, and then after that, i watch alot of law & order, everybody loves raymond, and friends reruns. in february, LOST returns, so ill be into that, and me and my wife will probably be into american idols when it starts again.

overlord good suggestions on entertainment in the offseason. there are so many movies out there id love to see that ill never be able to watch them all. agreed on “tombstone”. what a great movie… i love val kilmer’s doc holliday, he’s definetly my favorite in the movie.

“im your huckleberry”….what does that even mean? i love it.

By DAP

December 21, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

did you guys know that the teenage mutant ninja turtles were based on a true story? yeah, one day chuck norris ate a bowl of turtle soup, and when he crapped it out, his turds were 6 feet tall and knew karate.

By AJ 25

December 21, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

The heck with Javy…they should have brought his sister back instead.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 21, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Braves Fan in NYC — TV on the Radio’s “Return to Cookie Mountain” came out in 2006. i bought it as a christmas gift for my brother last year.

By AdirondackDave

December 21, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

kdbanks — good one!

By Braves Fan in NYC

December 21, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

Daybed Wagmore- You’re right about TVOTR, I’ll substitute it with “Boxer” by The National

By Braveheart

December 21, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Some of you are too much. All you do is rip on Stuart Scott with your silly attack (some of which are personal) then when you hear has cancer all of a sudden your sympathetic and feel for the guy. Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease! I hate when people do that crap. Be real. If you didn’t like the guy when he was healthy then you don’t like him now. Him getting cancer shouldn’t change your opinion. He is going to be back on air tonight and I’m sure he will be the same as he always had.

RobertCIB, If I hear Al Michaels call one more player Great during a game, I’m gonna choke the hell out of him. The “great” phrase of Al Michaels is even more annoying to me than most of Stu’s often annoying act.

Stuart Scott is just like Dan Patrick, Keith Olbermann, Bill Walton, Dick Vitale, John Sterling, John Madden, Howard Cossell, and all those guys who have too much schtick. Some people love ‘em. Some people hate ‘em. Some people like me both love & hate ‘em - depending upon my mood or who they are getting all chummy with or how annoying and overused some of their schtick gets.

But no one wishes cancer or death on anyone.

I think when people hear someone has cancer or has died, people step back and realize just how fragile and temporary our lives are. So, yes, they can become very sympathetic to even people they can’t stand.

Reminds me of that time Mike & the Mad Dog were killing the Yankees for losing and showing no heart against the Tigers in 2006. Cory Lidle was listening and called in all fired up. Mike & the Mad Dog jumped all over him and the team. Very ugly interview. Cory Lidle died in that plane crash the next day. Moments like that can make you wanna step back and look at yourself. To their credit, Mike & the Dog said they had no regrets about the way the interview went down (although they probably should have considering that, death or not, it was too nasty and pompous of an interview) but they were very sympathetic to Cory and his wife and son following his death. I don’t think that is hypocritical. It’s just human.

People that are annoyed with Stuart Scott are not gonna be any less annoyed with him now but they can still have heartfelt sympathy for him and his family and his situation.

Tupac, John Lennon, Dale Earnhardt, Princess Diana, and so on are wildly more beloved in death than when they were alive. Same goes for Muhammad Ali. Much more beloved now that he has Parkinson’s. Dan Reeves is a much more beloved Falcons coach now than when he was actually coaching here.

Its just like when someone dies and people have all these nice things to say about them but had just called them a no good sob five minutes before they found they died. Just asinine!

Is it any less asinine to have a moniker for years on here that says you think Justice is the best but then within 5 minutes of him being named in the Mitchell Report with extremely sketchy evidence to support him being named, you dumped Justice and said Chipper was the best? It’s really no different Robert.

By Lew

December 21, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

Didn’t buy quite as much music this year, but for those who like good old fashioned Hard Rock, check out Libertad by Velvet Revolver. Slash should have died years ago, given his lifestyle, but he can still rock with the best of them.

By Renegator

December 21, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

Lew:

Slash is still the man!

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

December 21, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

First of all, Braveheart there is a difference. My changing my name from Justice Is The Best to Chipper Is The Best was a result of the Mitchell Report but I have not blasted Justice or ripped him. It is not like I went from giving the guy love to hating his guts. You say the Mitchell Report had flimsy evidence. I say its the same type of evidence that people have used against Bonds for the last four years. So, pleeeeeease! Its the same evidence that exists against McGwire, Tejada, and Clemens but nobody here has a problem ripping them. Hell, look at Sosa. No evidence of any kind has been levied against him yet I’m sure you and many others believe that he is guilty as sin. Right?

My point about Stu Scott was that he is unmercifully ripped on here and people talk about how much they hate him and can’t stand him but now they want to wish him well. Some here had even openly hoped he would get sick or something so he wouldn’t be on air. So, c’mon!

The fact is most people are phoney. Its like right now. I will freely admit I am no fan of Dick Cheney’s. If he died right now, I would give his family my sympathies but I would certainly not begin talking about what a great man I think he is because I don’t think he is one. Don’t intend to bring any politics into this but I am trying to make my point. Also, for anyone reading don’t rip me or assume my poltical persuasion based upon my dislike for Cheney. You know what they say about assuming.

By doc

December 21, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

the appendix is part of the colon and is considered colon cancer when the appendix has it in it and the cell type matches the colon. it can have other types of cancer besides colon cancer. sometimes it is more invasive just because it is asymptomatic until it is found late and it ACTS like appendicitis. it is rare and hopefully hadnt spread too much into surrounding areas. since he is getting chemo it was more advanced than some as they dont just give chemo without significant indicators. i only found it unexpectedly in two persons in my career as it is a very big rarity.

dont know why stu has gotten so much trash over the years as i have often liked him and his delivery, never understood it. so with that guys, send it out for the guy, thoughts and prayers or frankly love do help in spite of what science tries to prove otherwise. he has always seemed like one of the really good guys in the business, just my impression and i have absolutely nothing to go on besides that.

By David O'Brien

December 21, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

Jared, that post about the Christmas cards was up for a few minutes, then I decided myself that it seemed a bit mean-spirited in regards to the Marlins. I mean, hey, they spent money and took the time to send out cards. That’s enough. There’s just happened to come the same day the Boston card came. The Red Sox card is better than all others I’ve received so far, too….

Daybed, it’ll definitely be in my next 25 in this afternoon’s blog. Another of those that could easily have been in my first 15 as in my third 15, know what I mean? After the first five or so, the rest of the good/great ones seem to lump themslves together when you listen to so many over the course of a year. Easy to forget ones you were so high on a few months ago, but that’s a great CD.

By Braveheart

December 21, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

RobertCIB, the evidence against Justice is much more flimsy than for Clemens. There is no testimony that alleges possession or use. There is an allegation of a purchase that is not supported by any corroborating evidence like the checks that were used to corroborate the evidence against the other fellas. Nor is it supported by any level of detail like the detail contained in the sections on other players about purchases, possession, and use.

Clemens on the other hand has his longtime personal trainer alleging possession and use by Clemens. The evidence against Clemens would get laughed out of a criminal courtroom but the evidence against Clemens is much stronger than against Justice.

But also, Justice never went through puberty in his twenties and thirties like Bonds, Sosa, McGwire, Clemens. Justice never had this inexplicable spike in performance during his career. He was pretty much the same player when he got called up to replace Dale Murphy that he was at the end. His career was also pretty short for someone of his stature and ability during the roid era he played in.

Sosa went from an above average star to a superhero. Bonds went from a superstar to a superhuman. Clemens went from washed up in 1996 back to the stud he was in 1986 overnight and magically remained that way until 2006. Sosa, Bonds, Clemens all look far different than when we first came to know them. Sosa acted like a phony at Congress - he did not fire back the way Justice has been since he was named. Sosa saw his performance drop dramatically once testing started. Clemens and Bonds have remained the best at what they do 10 years after most superstars stop being the best at what they do.

On the other hand, Justice was Justice from day one to the last day - an oft injured, really good but not quite so great player.

For all I know, Justice did do it. But considering all the evidence, with his stats, his physical appearance, his relatively short career, I have to suspect Justice didn’t. Nothing contained in the report convinced me otherwise.

By Lew

December 21, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Rene-Yeah, now that Ritchie Blackmore has decided he’s the reincarnation of Henry VIII and is doing his Renaissance gig and no longer kicking royal butt like with Deep Purple and Rainbow, I guess the Hard Rock Mantle goes to Slash. At least he hasn’t forgotten where he comes from. Well…..maybe given his past drug use, he HAS forgotten, but he still rocks. The new Lillian Axe is pretty good, too, as is the new Cult CD.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

December 21, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, I will give you this. I may have jumped the gun on Justice. Believe me when I say I hope he is totally innocent. No bigger fan of David Justice than me! No doubt about that. I think Justice’s story is plausible. Well, except the part about him not buying the HGH. A cancelled check actually does exist with Justice’s name on it and he refused to say what it is for. Also, if Justice was totally innocent why didn’t he respond to Mitchell’s request to speak with him. He didn’t have to offer up names. Giambi didn’t. Mitchell wanted to talk about Justice’s involvment and he refused to speak. Does that not say something?

Here is what I hope is the truth. Justice spoke with Clemens and McNamee about HGH. He purchased the HGH as the cancelled check implies he did. He received the crap and never actually used it. I hope that is the truth and would say its a 50/50 shot it is. Supposedly, he is deathly afraid of needles. John Smoltz confirmed that on The Jim Rome Show on Wednesday.

Fact is, all the evidence against these guys is flimsly including Bonds. The Game of Shadows used as one of its main sources a former lover of Bonds who has all the credibility of Britney Spears. C’mon. Does that mean Bonds is innocent? Nope. Just means a court of law would never convict him. You think the feds will convict him of perjury? Nope. Not enough evidence. Is he guilty? Hell yes he is!

Again, I think my changing my name and the sudden “support” for Stu Scott are two totally different things.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

December 21, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

I also agree that Justice’s body never really changed. I will contend though that Sosa’s really didn’t either. Yes he was bigger at 30 than he was at 21 but most guys are. Look at Smoltz.

I’ll be really honest about Sosa. I’m on the fence about him. On one hand logic says he is guilty because guys just don’t hit 60+ homers in consecutive seasons. However, there have never been any cancelled checks or anybody naming him as using roids. Nobody has ever come forward to say they gave him anything. Even his teammates can’t say they saw him do anything. They all said he was an a* as a teammate but that’s it. Suppose he could have gotten them while he was south of the border in the offseason but he would have had to use some during the season. Somebody would’ve had to stick him in the butt with the crap. Nobody has ever said he did.

Do I think Sosa did it? Yeah, probably. But, there is not one shred of evidence to say that he has. Thus, the problem with the “steroid era”.

By MGL

December 21, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

Robert (citb) From what I read there is no cancelled check for Justice.

By David O'Brien

December 21, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

Robert, the two can certainly be mutually exclusive — despising Stu Scott’s on-air personality and his tired “street” schtick, yet feeling quite bad for him personally during this scare and hoping like hell that he beats this and doesn’t have any more serious health issues (he’s dealt with more than his share already, especially for such a young guy).

Please don’t get all self-righteous and take people to task for hating the guy’s on-air personality, but pulling for him as a human being and, as far as I know, a fine person. One has absolutely nothing to do with the other, so pick another topic for your soapbox spiel. Don’t be silly. We’re adults here.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

December 21, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

DOB, you’re right but I was speaking more to the people who have attacked him personally and wished illwill on him. By no means do I mean to come across as self-righteous but it is just one of those pet peeves with me. I hate when people supposedly can’t stand somebody and then they become the best person in the world when something horrific befalls them.

Now, on to perhaps more pleasant discussions. DOB, I just read on Talking Chop where they broke down the Braves payroll and they have it a little under $83 mil with the current construction of the team. That would mean they have about $12 mil or so to spend. Would they consider going after a higher priced player for CF or a top flight starter if available. Would Erik Bedard be in their sights? Joe Blanton?

Again, DOB, I apologize for coming across as “self-righteous”. Was not my intention.

By brian kelley

December 21, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Robert..don’t slide my boy Dick Cheney’s name in and then say I don’t want to talk politics you Hillary lovin hillbilly

By Anders

December 21, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

DOB Can’t believe you wrote that about the Marlins X-mas card, on a blog that originates from the middle of the Christian South, a blog that follows a baseball team that’s identified more with the South than any other team in pro sports.

We have unofficial rules here, but some other things are just understood to be off-limits and out of bounds, my friend.

Thanks for my early X-Mas gift!

Just having fun with ya on this so pleasing - no lashing.

By ObiWanKobe

December 21, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

*Dodgers’ Furcal goes back to the farm

Coming off a disappointing season, the shortstop is wintering in his native Dominican Republic, playing ball and getting his mojo back. By Kevin Baxter, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer December 19, 2007 SANTIAGO, Dominican Republic — For more than a week rain had pounded the fertile farmland surrounding the Dominican Republic’s second-largest city, knocking down power lines, causing rivers to overflow and turning unpaved streets into rushing torrents of mud.

“Oh, it was terrible,” Rafael Furcal says with a shake of his head.

Winter of his contentment Winter of his contentment click to enlarge

But it’s all better now, he adds. And just to prove it, he hustles a visitor onto the balcony of his penthouse apartment for a view of clear blue sky that seems to stretch forever.

“You should see it at night,” the Dodgers shortstop says. “It’s beautiful.”

As for his baseball future, well, that too seems to be rosy again because, just hours earlier, Furcal’s personal black cloud had also lifted. Playing for the first time since hobbling off the field in Colorado three months ago with back and ankle problems, Furcal had four hits, two runs and stole a base in a Dominican winter league game in nearby San Francisco de Macoris.

OK, so it’s not the World Series. But it’s not a bad start.

“It felt good,” Furcal says. “I feel much better.”

That’s something he could rarely say during the summer. A sore shoulder kept him on the sidelines through much of spring training, then he started the season on the disabled list with a severely sprained left ankle that never fully healed. As a result, Furcal struggled through his worst season in six years, playing only 138 games and finishing with a career-low .270 average, 25 stolen bases and 87 runs.

After matching a career high with 15 home runs and helping the team reach the playoffs in his first season in Los Angeles, Furcal managed only six last summer, when the Dodgers finished fourth in the National League West. And with their leadoff hitter hobbled, the Dodgers outscored only one NL team that finished with a winning record and out-homered three of 30 big-league teams.

“I don’t think any lineup would be productive without the leadoff hitter being able to get on,” Dodgers General Manager Ned Colletti said. “Obviously he’s a key player for our club. We saw the difference he made.”

Five mornings a week Furcal steers his silver Mercedes through Santiago’s pothole-riddled streets to a downtown gym where a trainer from his winter league team, Aguilas de Cibao, gives him a massage, applies ice and heat and puts Furcal through a series of strength and flexibility exercises.

“I feel like I’m getting back to my game. Steal a base, bunting, running,” he says. “It’s tough when you’ve got a bad injury and you can’t even stand up at home plate. I felt so disappointed with myself.”

For the most part, however, he suffered in silence. Although the Dodgers’ trainers and confidants such as infield coach Mariano Duncan knew he was in pain, few others, even teammates, knew how badly he was hurt.

His wife, Glenny, knew because Furcal’s silence spoke volumes.

“When he feels hurt, he never says anything. He just stays quiet. But at the same time, I know that he was expecting more and he was getting frustrated,” she says, sitting in the living room of the couple’s sprawling two-story, 11th-floor penthouse.

“He wanted to do more [but] he was scared to say something because he felt like maybe people wouldn’t believe that he was hurt,” Glenny remembers of the long, quiet nights in their La Canada home. “It was really bad. He would come home sad. When Raffy can’t play well, he gets frustrated.”

So Furcal sought solace in his 1-year-old son Rafael Jr. and Glenny, a former New Yorker he met during his final spring training with the Braves.

“I didn’t know anything about baseball. And I still don’t,” she says. “Sometimes I’ll ask Raffy a question and he’ll just laugh. I thought it was really boring.”

But Furcal won her over with two simple gestures — a surprise call on her birthday and a visit home to meet his parents.

“When I met his family and I saw the way that he was treating his mom, I said, ‘Oh, wait a minute. This is a man who could really make a family,’ ” she recalls.

Which is why she was one of the few people who wasn’t happy to see Furcal back in uniform this week. “We don’t have enough time [together] in L.A. Now he’s playing here, he’s not going to spend time with his family,” she says. “It’s another job. I never told him anything, but I was sad.

“But if he needs it and he feels happy doing it, then I have to go ahead and be with him.”

Furcal grew up near the Haitian border in Loma de Cabrera, a dusty village of less than 7,000 split by the Dajabon River — a river most locals know as the rio masacre because its shallow waters have frequently flowed red with blood from massacres dating back more than 300 years, to when French and Spanish colonizers fought along its banks.

Furcal’s father, Silvio, built a reputation as a standout left fielder in an era when major league scouts ignored the Dominican Republic. But he would make up for that by sending all three of his sons to the U.S. to play baseball.

Manuel, who died in an accident eight years ago, pitched in the minor leagues for the Seattle Mariners. Lorenzo, an infielder signed by Hall of Fame pitcher Juan Marichal, played two years in the Oakland Athletics’ system until he broke an arm, then a leg, and decided to retire.

Rafael, however, rocketed through the minor leagues, playing just one full season there before landing in Atlanta and winning the National League rookie-of-the-year award in 2000.

“There were three of us. One had to make it to the major leagues,” Lorenzo says with a shrug.

It almost didn’t happen. Although Rafael was the family’s last hope in baseball, he was ready to start engineering school before scout Felix Francisco spotted him at a tryout in Santo Domingo and offered him $5,000 to sign with the Braves.

Furcal managed to pocket only $2,800 of his bonus, but that was enough to buy a car for his parents. Five years later he bought them a house, and now his father manages much of the farmland Furcal bought after signing a three-year, $39-million free-agent contract with the Dodgers two years ago.

That contract expires after this season. If Furcal, who turned 30 in October, wants to sign another one that big he’ll have to return to being the kind of dependable and disruptive offensive force he was before the injuries, one who averaged more than 150 games, 108 runs and nearly 33 stolen bases over the previous five seasons.

“I don’t like to put pressure on myself like that,” Furcal says when asked about his future.

But that’s not to say he isn’t taking things seriously. Furcal’s comeback game last weekend — in which he played second base, not short, to ease the strain on his shoulder — was his first in winter league play since signing with the Dodgers in 2005.

“We were encouraged that he wanted to play winter ball,” says Colletti, who believes Furcal may have tried to rush himself into shape the last two springs after taking the winter off.

And if he can stay in shape, Furcal’s hoping that will keep the down time to a minimum. With former Braves teammate Andruw Jones anchoring the middle of the lineup, Furcal believes the Dodgers are much more potent than they were a year ago.

“We’ve got a guy that can hit 40 homers, 100 RBIs. That’s what we’re looking for. That’s what we need,” says Furcal, who has played in the postseason six times in an eight-year career yet never in the NL Championship Series or World Series.

“It’s tough for me because the World Series is the best. Every player wants to be in the World Series,” he says. “Sometimes it depends on luck. I think sometimes I don’t have luck.”

But he does have a healthy ankle. And that’s a good start.*

By Braveheart

December 21, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

RobertCIB, are you sure there is a canceled check from Justice? There was none in the Mitchell report and last I heard Justice was demanding to see a copy of it if there is one. Justice did speak to Mitchell. But he did not speak to Mitchell after those bozos made allegations about him and Mitchell attempted to contact Justice.

Justice claims his cell number changed a bunch of times over the last 2 years. I dunno. That does not sound like the greatest excuse to me. But I heard Jon Heyman on the Mike & the Mad Dog show the other day and Heyman and Mad Dog were mocking that excuse of Justice. They used this warped logic to mock Justice: He works for the Yankees so it is not like Mitchell should have had a hard time finding him if Mitchell wanted him. Don’t know how that works against Justice. He can’t respond to a message he does not receive.

And if they could not get in touch with Justice, why couldn’t Mitchell just take the 4 train up to Yankee Stadium and corner Justice and sit down with him that way to confront him with the allegations? What kind of two bit investigator just sits around sending letters out and making phone calls? That’s crappy investigative work. A good investigator hunts people down like a dog (as my father used to warn me all the time when I was a juvenile delinquent). A good investigator knowing Justice was where he was would have cornered Justice at the Stadium and got the info he wanted there.

But I still think that cell phone excuse of Justice does not sound like a very good excuse to me.

By old timer

December 21, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

DOB, what has happened to Pena? Has he taken a step back? I pictured him as a solid back-up catcher or even trade bait to a team in need of a No. 1. Switch hitter, right? He looked pretty good the times I saw him play a couple years ago.

By Anders

December 21, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Regarding Heyman, is it just me or is he getting a little full of himself of late? With all the exposure he’s been getting on the Fan and at SI I think he’s trying to be more personality than reporter. Nothing concrete just an observation. He was dead wrong on his “If Minaya added Fernando Martinez to the Santana deal it was a done deal” It’s since been reported by Met’s officials that the Twins have asked for Reyes in every discussion they’ve had.Did that come up in the interview? Some of these reporters just trip all over themselves to have something to say in their contractual air time.

By Renegator

December 21, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

I wonder if they hand out DUIs in the Dominican Republic. Maybe that’s really why Furcal went down there.

By TennesseePaul

December 21, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Braveheart: Justice’s stance that he “doesn’t do needles” isn’t a good one either. Nor is it pleasing to hear Justice say “if it’d been in pill form…” Basically he’s an admitted pill popper. Perhaps he didn’t take the needles and use them. Maybe because his medicine cabinet was already packed full of pills. But it isn’t, or wasn’t, Mitchells job to go down and corner every single player and force them to speak. The players had the right to plead the fifth and it appears that all of them did when they were notified of their inclusion in the report.

“My number changed, and I don’t like needles anyway. I perfer text messages and pills.”

Just for the record, I don’t dislike or hate Justice because of this. Again, the more accurate word would be disappointed. I’m still glad he hit the Home Run in 1995. He was a good ball player back in those days and all Mitchell exposed of him was he may have been a cheat while with the Yankees towards the end of his career. But it didn’t say anything about his time with the Braves.

By Renegator

December 21, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

The article in Talking Chop is very interesting. It has some noble possibilities on the Braves Payroll and even gives DOB a shout out (even though they disagree with him)

Check it out here

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

December 21, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Oh, Brian Kelley, real nice, pal! I love the “Hillary loving hillbilly” blast. That is classic. You pulled that right out of the “if you aren’t with Cheney you are against him” playbook, huh? Very nice. Well, for the record I am not a Hillary lover nor am I a hillbilly. Of course, I’m sure facts are not that important to you and they usually aren’t with folks of your ilk. I should’ve used somebody else as an example. Mistake in judgement on my part. Perhaps, I should’ve used someone more on your level like Britney Spears. Probably think she’s a goodess, don’t you? If Dick Cheney is your boy all I have to say is “God bless you” and don’t go hunting with him.

By DAP

December 21, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

raffy was gonna be an engineer? he must be a pretty fart smeller.

By Braveheart

December 21, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

10Paul, I think the I don’t do needles thing was pretty weak myself. Almost like Whitney Houston that one time saying crack is wack in answer to allegations that she was a crackhead. The saying if it was in pill form, then I would have used is also like OJ saying if I killed Nicole, this is how I would have done it.

I like the interview Cowherd did with Justice because he just let Justice go and speak but a problem with it is that he should have redirected Justice at some point and said well then did anyone ever present this stuff to you in pill form and did you ever use it by pill. Justice is not a dumb guy. I believe he skipped the 7th and 8th grade when he was a kid because he was intelligent and graduated high school at 16 years old.

I could see Justice almost setting up, if it comes up later, that yes I did it in cream and pill form but not in syringes. That is perhaps why he is so insistent upon stressing he don’t do needles but he does pills. A good interviewer would have picked up on that and gone after that angle Justice was leaving wide open in his statements in trying to defend himself.

And 10Paul, I disagree with you. Mitchell was hired to be an investigator. Investigations entail a whole lot more than just sending out letters and voicemails and piggy backing on federal investigations. They paid the dude millions to do what exactly? Compile a list in one place of all the literature out there accusing players and a list of names the feds have dug up? What independent information did he discover as a result of his investigation that was not already known by the media, the public, and/or the feds?

He was hired to be an investigator. A quality investigator knocks on doors. He never knocked on any doors except for the Feds. There are so many tactics he could have employed that he didn’t. How about calling the player up or his agent or his lawyer and saying we can do this the easy way, the hard way, or not at all? But regardless, your name has been brought up and will be in the report. You can have your side of the story portrayed in the report if you like. If you don’t want to talk to me, then I may just make a little visit down to your clubhouse and attempt to speak with you and ask for private time with you in front of your teammates and the media. They will know why I am there even if I never say why publicly. They will make their own assumptions. Is that what you want? Apply the pressure to them. It is no different than during a criminal investigation where the police tell the lawyer to bring their client in for questioning or risk that they will come down to your client’s house or office and humiliate your client in front of his family, neighbors, bosses, and coworkers just with their presence alone.

It may not have worked but it sure beats just sitting there and sending out messages in a bottle and pretending that constitutes an investigation.

Also, since it seems that the people with the info were the clubbies and trainers, how many clubhouses did he visit so he could talk to them? They are the lowest paid people and most susceptible into being bullied into talking obviously. Maybe most would have refused to speak with him but maybe, just maybe, he could have gotten one or two or three to speak and broken the thing wide the hell open.

Who knows? Mitchell’s investigative techniques were pretty sorry if you ask me.

By TennesseePaul

December 21, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

Renegator: Sheeesh. Careful how you say that. Any whisper of payroll not being 95 million in 2008 brings sharp cries of reprisals.

I will say this though, the values of some of these players I think are set lower than they actually will be. Guys like Francoeur or Diaz and a bunch of the second year guys as well. League Minimum is 380,000 I think. Some of the raises seem a bit low. But even still, if payroll is supposed to be in the 95 million range than it could still handle this re-alignment on the younger guys.

Plus, don’t be surprised if another thing comes down. You can’t count Hampton’s full 15 million, but you must include all the prorated signing bonuses for other players. It’s an important tweak to the system which puts the salary much higher.

What ever the case, it doesn’t appear that the team has spent more money. It’s one of the few teams in baseball that can boast about having “many millions more” and then proceed to “spend” it by letting go of high priced vets and acquiring minor leaguers. The actions don’t match up with the traditional interpretation or expectation of the words.

By 22oz

December 21, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

Renegator, I went to the Dominican Republic on my honeymoon, and after seeing how they drive, I’m not sure how you can tell who’s sober and who’s drunk.

By TennesseePaul

December 21, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

Braveheart: I still don’t think he should have, or would have had the right to, corner all of the alleged users and force them to respond. They all could plead the 5th. And he knows this. And the players knew this. The union directed them to do as much. He could have force Justice into a broom closet and it still would have resulted in a “no comment”. He had no subpoena power either. He couldn’t “force” anything. He’s an old man having to drag suspected ‘roid users into closets to pound out a statment from them. Don’t see it happening. They’d rip him to pieces what with the ‘roid rage and all.

I’ll stick with Mitchell on this and say he did the following:
…provide a thorough, accurate, and fair accounting of what I learned in this investigation about the illegal use of performance enhancing substances by players in Major League Baseball.
—Mitchell Report, SR-7, Paragraph 2, line 1.

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 21, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Braves Fan in NYC — great substitution! every time i listen to “boxer” i like it more and more.

By DAP

December 21, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Robert(CJIB) you are clearly an america-hating terrorist. your disdain for cheany shows your desire for america to be destroyed. i cant believe you are so unpatriotic ;-)

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

December 21, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Braveheart and 10Paul, here is what you are missing about Mitchell and his investigators. You can say all you want he should have knocked on doors until somebody answered or cornered guys at the stadium or employed other tactics. But, the reality was that Mitchell and his ban of CSI wannabes were not an investigative body. They had no subpeona power. They could not make anybody talk to them legally. Not one player or trainer or roid distributor HAD to speak with Mitchell. Not one of them! The only reason the two trainers and the Mets clubbie did speak was because they were forced too by the federal government because they were currently under investigation. Don’t you think if Mitchell had the power to make guys talk he would have?

That is the reason there was this unspoken vow to not speak to Mitchell by the players including guys like Schilling and Smoltz who have been so critical of alleged roid and HGH users. The players knew that they didn’t have to speak to Mitchell or his investigators and if they could get a league wide boycott of the investigation they couldn’t necessarily be implicated by their refusal to speak. Fact is, no matter how rampant the use was of steroids or is of HGH not every player is on it. So, if none of them speak it takes the heat off of the actual users.

By Lew

December 21, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

I still contend that the “many millions more” referred to what they intend to offer to Teixeira. Now maybe they WON’T resign him-though anyone who says they know for sure is full of it, because it is unknown at this time. However, if they were to go out and spend all those $$$$, then I guess that they wouldn’t be able to make a bona fide offer to Tex, now would they?

A high priced “savior” pitcher is not an urgent need right now, nor is there one available who would fit the bill that won’t cost more than the Braves (or any sane person, for that matter) are willing to give up. Six prospects for Haren? God knows what for Santana? Get real, y’all.

It’s plain to see y’all are real good at spending money that belongs to others, but you would be abject failures running your own business if you outspent what you would logically bring in. It’s called profit and loss and reinvestment.

You want all sorts of $$$$ to be spent on superstars? Put your assorted butts in Turner Field seats. Try putting 40,000+ in those seats every night of the season and you might just be shocked what you’ll get in return. You really think Ted could have or would have spent all those bucks if the team weren’t packing the stadium? We used to draw over 3 million per season and it is now just in recent years (when the Braves are nowhere near as good) that the attendance has gone up, though nowhere near those levels. Quit griping and go out and support your team. Hell, you can even go get drunk for them. Those beers are expensive and have a great profit margin.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

December 21, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

I know, DAP. I should be ashamed of myself, huh? :)

By TennesseePaul

December 21, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

However, if they were to go out and spend all those $$$$, then I guess that they wouldn’t be able to make a bona fide offer to Tex, now would they?

Lew, I’m not sure I follow. If there are many millions more to spend this season, then it would stand to reason that it wouldn’t prohibit what was spent next season when one considers the other argument put forth about the ability to retain, or at least make a competitive offer to, Mark Teixeira. That is, the Hampton Contract will be off the books and possibly Glavine.

So, they save the money for the next off season when even more money is freed up so they can offer Teixeira an 8 million dollar raise over his projected 2008 salary. They stand to clear something like 15 million off the books next off season alone. Without even investing those “many millions more” they’d have enough money to make a competitive offer to Teixeira.
Theoretically of course. I still think this guy is going where the money is and the money will be in NY.

But it seems to go back and forth.
The many millions are for Teixeira in the future.
The many millions are for the raises to the players this year.
Acquiring Haren’s 5 million a year salary instead of signing Glavine at 8 million is too expensive.

I should stop now. This tends to inflame people and that isn’t the point. Just trying to reconcile all the excuses.

By flange1

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

Lew,

I agree with you to a certain extent on the “put your butts in the seats” before you complain about spending logic. I for one DO have season tickets and DO support the team at the concession stand as well even though beer and food prices are too high and the quality is not.

But we have also heard that mlb.com sent each team a little check for $25 million. We have heard that team payroll is going to go up. Terry M. has said that there is no etched in stone budget numbers but money CAN be spent.

All of that talk is great. Gets folks excited.

Then wee have the off season moves. We choose not to resign AJ, Dotel and Mahay. We trade Edgar. We sign Glavine to a discounted contract.

While each of those moves CAN be explained for non-monetary reasons, one could look at the moves as salary dumps.

I know that you believe the Braves are on the right path, and in most part, I agree with you, but one can look at the “talk” from the front office and the “action” of the front office and get confused about which way the salary thing is really going.

Please don’t come back with Smoltz’s salary is increasing, Hudson’s salary is increasing etc.

Salaries are increasing at an alarming rate. a 10% increase in team payroll is actually not an increase in spending, it is just baseball COLA.

It would be nice to see one more move that involves SPENDING some money……

By Braveheart

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

I’ll stick with Mitchell on this and say he did the following: …provide a thorough, accurate, and fair accounting of what I learned in this investigation about the illegal use of performance enhancing substances by players in Major League Baseball.

10Paul, I guess we differ in the fair, accurate, and thorough. Were his investigative techniques thorough and fair enough to provide a fair, accurate, and thorough picture of the steroid problem? Absolutely not.

But mostly where we differ is in labeling this an investigation. It was not an investigation. It was more of a glorified study.

There really was no investigation because the investigative tactics utlitized were so poor. Mitchell should have taken out the word investigation and replaced it with the word study. Because what you are applauding him for is a fair, thorough, and accurate study of the steroid issue. It was not a fair, accurate, and thorough investigation.

And don’t be ridiculous. I’m not saying Mitchell had to force them into broom closets at all. And of course he probably would have received alot of no comments initially. But if he appeared in clubhouses and such and, for example, DOB was there, DOB would have had to report his presence and that Mitchell personally asked to speak to Player A, Player B, and Player C but they refused to speak. Then the blog would have went wild. It would have spread like wildfire and the pressure would have been turned up on the players to speak with Mitchell to get the public off their back.

Maybe even that would not have been effective. Who knows? We’ll never know because Mitchell never really tried to exhaust the investigative techniques available to him because he treated his job more like a study than an investigation.

RobertCIB, most investigations are done without using subpoenas or even the threat of subpoenas. Most are just done with good old fashioned visits to the crime scenes and knocks on people’s doors - this would have required Mitchell and his posse to become an annoying omnipresence in clubhouses.

They didn’t bust Michael Vick and his boys by sending Vick and his boys messages in a bottle praying that they please come in and speak with investigators. If you sit around and wait for the perps to come to you, they never will.

This “investigation” looks like it was conducted by academics and lawyers and not investigators.

By TennesseePaul

December 21, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Well, one last thing because I just thought of it and I’m curious.
I still contend that the “many millions more” referred to what they intend to offer to Teixeira.
Lew, wouldn’t this mean that you are contending that they have not spent the many millions more this off season? In other words, they haven’t spent more money on payroll this offseason.

By brian kelley

December 21, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Robert Unfortunately Britney and her lame sister are a bit beneath me…but most liberals are probably praising her lil sis for practicing free sex and not enforcing any values or rules because it’s not pc…anyways I do like your taste in baseball teams…Go Braves!

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

December 21, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

I don’t think that extra $12 mil or so is being saved for Tex. I think that money will come from Hampton’s contract. It is almost a certainty that Hampton will not be resigned. If he has a great comeback year he will command too much money ($12 to $15 mil). If he is a bust, well he isn’t much use to the team. Even with the increases in pay going to McCann, Francouer, and Gonzales for the ‘09 season the money will be freed up. It will come down to whether the Braves want to invest that kind of money into Tex for the next six to seven years.

By Lew

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

TenPaul-They are, in all likelihood, given that Wren will not discuss it, in negotiations with Tex right now (well, maybe not during Christmas). As for Haren- Dude, what part of $5million PLUS six prospects do you not understand? The money is one thing, but mortgaging your future is quite another. Besides, I don’t recall anyone saying that “many millions more” would be spent right here and now. Even if they had, how many more millions would you be happy with? 5? 10? Another 10 mil? Another 20? I still contend that if you go out and spend it, you won’t have it to offer to Tex-or to anyone else. Not to mention, who is paying for the upgrades to the stadium? Do you seriously think Atlanta is doing it?

Now it’s obvious to me that the Braves powers that be believe that the pitching staff that they have assembled is going to be pretty damned good. They are, after all, the people who get paid the big bucks to analyze and make these decisions. Other analysts with no stake in the Braves seemingly agree with said assessment. So, seems to me that the rub is that YOU (and some other fans, of course) don’t agree with their assessment. Same goes for whomever ends up playing center field. Sometimes you just have to let your own kids have their shot and given the Braves considerable success in bringing up their own kids, then maybe, just maybe, they have a clue.

As for spending NEXT season, maybe there will be a considerably better Free agent class from which to choose. Maybe they feel that some of their own pitching prospects will be ready by then, or shortly thereafter. Maybe some of the pitchers they now have will succeed enough that they may bring a stud in next offseason. The possibilities are myriad. The point remains that just because you aren’t happy with their not spending like they are the Yankees or Red Sox on steroids (don’t you just love THAT theme?) doesn’t mean that they don’t know what they are doing. Not to mention, that the season does not start for another 3 months. Much can happen in that time and how many times have deals developed that none of us ever saw coming?

It’s high time that you and everyone else come to the realization that pitching-even mediocre pitching-is absolutely outrageously expensive and everyone is looking for it-EVERYONE. There is considerably more demand than supply. Look to your economics, Dude. Somewhere along the line you have to do what ALL teams hope to do-discover excellent pitching from your own organization, or through trades, that you can have cheap and control for five or six years. Seems to me that is what the Braves are doing.

I get so sick and tired of hearing how we are nothing but a mid level city. This is a bunch of bull. Atlanta has the 9th largest Metro area by population in the entire United States (at least accoding to the 2000 census). Those cities with appreciably more population that us are those with two teams. Boston actually is below us in Metro population, yet they sell out EVERY game. THAT’S where their money comes from. We are only a mid level city IF the fans choose that it be so. Put @$$e$ in the seats, like I suggest, and see where it gets us.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

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

Braveheart, are you serious? They got Vick because they got warrants to check his property. Hell, if the property those dog fights were being held at didn’t belong to Vick I would argue they would’ve never even gone after him even if others implicated him. But, with fights being on his property he couldn’t really deny any knowledge of what was going on.

Fact is, not one major leaguer had to say a damn word to Mitchell. And, they didn’t! Man, even the feds have had problems with Bonds. That is why they jailed Greg Anderson for a year. They couldn’t get anybody else that had pertinent info to give up Bonds. You have to keep in mind. This isn’t CSI or Law & Order where the investigators are dealing with “ordinary Joes”. These are multimillionaires or guys close to it who can get the best lawyers and stonewall. Short of pulling some Sopranos crap Mitchell had no way of getting the info he needed from the players. The one player he did get info from (Giambi) only gave it because MLB backed him into a corner. The only reason MLB was able to do that was because of Giambi’s leaked grand jury testimony which forced Giambi to “admit” his use. Without that leaked testimony Giambi wouldn’t have talked either. Don’t be naive, man. You better believe that.

By Braveheart

December 21, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

but most liberals are probably praising her lil sis for practicing free sex and not enforcing any values or rules because it’s not pc

brian kelley, please stop disgracing such a fine irish name. that was such an ignorant opinion on so many levels and exactly why we try to avoid the political b.s. on here.

By Lew

December 21, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

Flange-It’s great you have season tickets. Were I down there, I would try to,as well. Now maybe that there is part of the problem-How many here on the blog are from way out of state?

Be that as it may. You mention a 10% increase. That would be approximately $8.5 million, or the price of a discounted Glavine at today’s prices. It also would put our salary at about $93 million, which is what I thought DOB had it figured to be. Also consider that in season moves require some $$$ as well. How about that last piece at the trade deadline, like last year?

Besides, as I’ve mentioned before, if Tex is signed and Francoeur is signed to a long term extension, are not those counted in the “many more millions? There comes a time when you have to give them a chance. Like I also said, there are three more months until the season even starts. Many more moves could be made. Just because Wren says we have our team does not mean he won’t do more. Give the guy a chance. He HAS already filled the holes and at the worst, will field a team that I sure consider to be competitive. He’s covered if nothing else develops. Maybe people need to realize that just because we may want to make a deal doesn’t mean the other guy will be amenable.

By CarrierPigeon

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

I found out yesterday on ESPN that the only reason why Andy Petite’s and Roger Clemins’ trainers revealed to the media that both of these guys were doing HGH was because the feds came in and threatened him with being put in jail, similarly to what Greg Anderson (Bonds’ trainer) had to do. He didnt want to go to jail so he told the truth that Petite and clemens both did steriods. I know Roger will never admit that he did human growth supplements but I know that Roger is lying because if he was completely clean, he would have told the media that his trainer is lying and that he will sue his trainer immediately for slander the first chance he gets or that Roger and his trainer both take lie detecter tests. Roger didnt say any of these becasue HE KNOWS THAT HE IS GULTY AS SIN. Roger knows now that he has been completely exposed and he wants to hide under a rock as big as the rock of Gibralter. Now everone knows where the Rocket gets his rocket fuel to continue launching is rocket and blasting off every year. Thank you Jose Canseco for delivering the truth to us.

By David O'Brien

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

RENEGATOR: Just a quick glance to the linked breakdown of the Braves’ 2008 payroll reveals several calculation problems, all involving underestimations or signing bonuses not accounted for.

There is a complete absence of any money from prorated shares of signing bonuses for Hudson and Chipper, and those most assuredly count in the payroll, both for Braves purposes and for MLB tabulation.

Hudson got a $10 million bonus, which works to 2.5 mill per year prorated for four years.

Chipper Jones got a $4 million bonus in his reworked contract, or $1.33 million per year prorated over three years.

So there’s $3.8 mill unaccounted for.

Then there’s the matter of underestimating the amount that several zero-to-three guys are going to get, including Peter Moylan, who had a strong year and is not going to get $400,000 which is merely $10,000 more than the new, increased major league minimum.

Kelly Johnson is not going to get $400,000 after the year he had (he has more than 2-1/2 years’ service n ow, including time from 60-day DL in 2006).

Yunel Escobar is going to get more than $400,000. And there’s a few others like that, which is close to another mill underestimated.

So there’s $4.5 mill or so just from the prorated signing bonuses of Chipper and Hudson and the raises for zero-to-3 guys.

Hampton’s salary, for Braves payroll purposes, works out to closer to $9 mill than $8 mill annually (don’t ask me how they come to that figure, but I’ve been told repeatedly that it’s more than $8.5 mill).

So we’re at over $5 mill now underestimated.

Then there’s Teixeira, who will likely be at about $13 mill or slightly above, not $12 mill.

Infante should be about $1.5 mil, not 1.2.

We’re at close to $7 mill understimated now, and that puts it at about $90 mill right now for the 2008 payroll.

Braves could probably take on another $5 mill or so before opening day, maybe slightly more if a deal they simply couldn’t refuse came along, but that seems unlikely.

By TennesseePaul

December 21, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

Lew: That was a long one. For starters, I never stated that the 2008 rotation will be bad. My point this entire off season concerning player moves was to bridge the gap that will show up in 2009 and beyond. Haren would bridge that gap. Glavine gives you one extra step but nothing to get you to the lauded Rohrbough who has only pitched 6 games in single A.
Secondly I don’t know what it would have taken to get Haren, but apparently the Braves were interested enough to talk to them at the last minute. Apparently they heard that it was going to take a mixture of relievers and college experienced players and one star which it did. That apparently was something that they thought they’d be able to work with.
Thirdly, I don’t recall anyone saying that “many millions more” would be spent right here and now. Perhaps this will help.
Earlier this week in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Braves CEO Terry McGuirk indicated that the club will spend “many millions more” on next year’s payroll
Fourthly, so the “many millions more” is being allotted the following ways: a) Saved to apply toward Teixeira in future years. b) Going to player pay raises this year. c) paying for the upgrades to the stadium.
By your own contentions you are implying that the many millions more has not been spent. That was the point of several bloggers and apparently you agree. And as you can see from the links above, there was an implication that the money would be spent on the 2008 roster. This is where the confusion begins. This is why DOB goes back to the books and adds in all the figures and bonuses, but only Hampton’s prorated salary, and comes up with a payroll that is a few million more than last season. How much is “many millions more”? I have no idea. Terry never really said. Apparently it’s just enough to give everyone raises. That’s fine. But they should take note, when the front office says “many millions more” to spend on the payroll, the fan base typically takes that as meaning an influx of all star talent. Not pay raises, minor league acquisitions and stadium upgrades with a little bit of nostalgia sprinkled on top.

And lastly: Put @$$e$ in the seats, like I suggest, and see where it gets us. Yeah. Easy one Lew. Pick on the guy in California for not buying season tickets. I’m already bummed enough that I can’t see more home games, you don’t need to rub it in.

By David O'Brien

December 21, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

Brian Kelley, I agree with Braveheart: Your post is so ignorant, so nonsensical, that the Irish-American Council is meeting now to decide if it should dip into its general fund and try to make an offer to you to change your last name.

By TennesseePaul

December 21, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

Fact is, not one major leaguer had to say a damn word to Mitchell. And, they didn’t!

Robert CIB: That isn’t entirely true. Giambi spoke to him under pressure from the Commissioner. But I get what you’re saying.

By mo in the boonies

December 21, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

Braveheart You are calling Mitchell a two-bit investigator? And he should have hunted Justice down like a dog at the stadium? The reason Mitchell was appointed to the job was because of his impeccable reputation. Everyone knew he would do a unbiased report, even though he did have a slight tie to a baseball team. Like Robert said, he had no subpoena power, and couldn’t impel anyone to talk to him if they didn’t want to. All he could do was ask politely. And with the union backing them and the owners sitting on their hands, the players felt completely safe in ignoring Mitchell. That doesn’t make them innocent. Far from it. I usually respect your opinions, but you are all wet on this one. And Robert (CITB) is right. I know you and others on here hate to even imagine that any Braves could be guilty, but hang on, the other shoe hasn’t dropped yet. The congress will have subpoena power. Then players can either testify truthfully, or perjure themselves, or take the fifth, and appear to be guilty whether they are or not.

And as for them going into the club houses and trying to force players to talk to them, how long do you think the players union would have stood still for that? Remember they had no legal recourse to force the players to talk, they were not police officers or FBI, they were a civilian organization. Strong arms tactics would only have rebounded on them, not the players. And public opinion and the ACLU would have been stacked against them. The Mitchell committee did what they could under the tight circumstances they were forced into by the managers, and the players union, and the fact they had no legal recourse. Was it enough, no! But stay tuned, the game isn’t over yet.

By TennesseePaul

December 21, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

DOB: Another issue with that payroll tabulation: the guy had the Braves carrying 3 catchers, McCann, Lopez and Pena. So aside from not adding in all the variables, the team he built isn’t correct.

By Shaun

December 21, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

Brian Kelley and others, want to talk politics and no talent “entertainers,” I’m sure there are plenty of blogs out there for you.

By TommyP

December 21, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

DOB: Just curious but how close are Furcal and Andruw? Were they best buddies in Atlanta or just good teammates?

Also, Tony Gwynn, Jr. is in one crowded OF in Milwaukee. Cheap platoon acquisition for CF???????

Just a thought…

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

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

10Paul , that tabulation by Choptalk is not even close to being accurate. It left out Mike Gonzalez and didn’t take into account that the final roster will consist of 25 players. I figured that after arbitration the payroll will be roughly somewhere between 88 to 90 million.

By David O'Brien

December 21, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

Furcal and Andruw are very close. Best of friends.

By TennesseePaul

December 21, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this

Coach: I agree, that thing is flawed but didn’t take into account that the final roster will consist of 25 players I counted 25 on there.

By TennesseePaul

December 21, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

Coach: Also, I’m seeing Gonzo on there. What it didn’t do is pro-rate the replacement that will have his spot until he returns.

By David O'Brien

December 21, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

Josh Hamilton traded to Rangers for righty Edinson Volquez and a minor league pitcher, Danny Ray Herrera.

Volquez, 24, was 14-6 and struck out 166 in 144 2/3 innings in three minor league stops last season.

By Lew

December 21, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

TenPaul- Point one-whenever I head a post with your name, I do so in reference to you directing things towards me. However, rather than include twenty other names, I will include other related topics when I post whether or not it was you who mentioned them. If the sequence is there, does it really matter if you mentioned it or not?

Point two-even if they did say this season, it ain’t this season for three more months. Just because sitcoms and tv dramas have a solution in a short period of time doesn’t mean it will ever happen in baseball-eg. look at Johann Santana. Still on the market, isn’t he? Still no clue who will eventually get him (if anyone), is there?

Point three-The pitching. You’re obviously not happy that $$$$ haven’t been spent. Exactly WHO and what position would you have them spend it on? Pitching, perhaps? Maybe center field? Seems every other position is filled with experienced talent or players that the brass has high hopes for. We got fouled up last year with lack of pitching depth due to injuries-we now have depth, both in the rotation and in the pen. We lost Andruw, but have only four or five potential players to fill in. So for me to mention the pitching in response to you makes quite perfect sense to me even if you did not specifically mention it.

Point Four-How much in addition to the $$$ are you willing to pay? Would you be comfortable shipping off six of our prospects for Dan Haren just so we could boost our payroll by $5mil-especially after giving up about seven young guys at the trade deadline? What if we gave up $3 mil in salaries to get Haren in addition to the six players? Would that then mean they have to go spend another three million, because you think they said they would spend Many millions and that wasn’t enough?

Haven’t people been majorly critical of shipping off all of our young pitching in the past? When we don’t they’re critical anyway and there is griping about reliance on young guys. We keep hearing how we need to get good young pitching. Isn’t that what we did by trading for Jurrjens? Hasn’t there been a hue and cry to get more team speed and potential base stealers? Isn’t that what we did by picking up Hernandez and Anderson? Didn’t we need a LH relief pitcher that can get out LH hitters? Isn’t that EXACTLY what Ohman excels at? Is it a wrong move because Mahay would have cost four times as much, thereby boosting the payroll?

Sometimes it just flat out seems that no matter how the Braves work their plans, there will be criticism. Damned if they do and damned if they don’t. Add to that the fact that a winning team is what we really want and not just an expensive team, and I really wonder just where all these shouts for huge expenditures come from. I think the team is pretty solid as is now fabricated. Question marks? Hell yeah-but, then again, when aren’t there? I don’t see this is any different. You need to face facts that you aren’t ever going to be able to outspend the Red Sox or the Yankees and I’m not even certain that anyone we could pick up right now would give us as strong a team as Boston or Detroit-are you?. All we can do is try to be competitive and to win our division and we could very well do that. The Phillies and the Mets have not made themselves appreciably stronger. We have. Even if we were to go out and spend another $15-20 million-who would you spend it on? Carlos Silva? Bartolo Colon?

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

December 21, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this

The Hamilton / Volquez trade was rumored to happen soon and it did. The Reds picked Hamilton up off the scrap heap , kept him for one season and then flipped the guy for two pitchers. Not a bad days work by the Red front office.

By AdirondackDave

December 21, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

TommyP — DOB’s right of course on Furcal and Andruw. If I remember correctly, they were roommates early on in their bachelor days.

By David O'Brien

December 21, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this

OK, folks, finally got a new blog up. Please indulge.

By TennesseePaul

December 21, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Lew: Point 1: If the sequence is there, does it really matter if you mentioned it or not?
That is fine by me if you would like to include statements from other posters. Simply state that it was posted by other persons. This is an established and esteemed journalistic source. I just have to make sure my name is clear of some of these inclusions on the sequence. Some of these additional references seem to take the extreme of the position, which is also not my position. So the clary is to keep my name clean of such for all times, purposes, peoples and aliens that should happen to skim over the blog.

Point 2: even if they did say this season, it ain’t this season for three more months
I understand that. I also read Wren saying he is done with major moves and is only looking for Stop-Gap who seems to be a slippery fellow and hard to obtain. But anyway, at what point may one speak of a move without being told it’s too soon to speak of the move? And even still, you seem to be agreeing that they have yet to spend the many millions more for you are allowing for 3 more months to spend it.

Point 3: players that the brass has high hopes for
I have yet to see or hear the team present its depth chart and state clearly the following:
We have so-n-so as a backup if some one goes down and that’s not a good thing. Sure he’s young and up-coming but honestly we have no hope that this kid is going to amount to more than a carreer minor league journyman. In fact there is internal debate over whether he is even worth his minor league salary. In short, we’re skrewed.
The point being that they are high on the kids all the time. They were pumped on Davies as well. Sometimes, a lot of the times actually, these kids don’t turn out well. Which is fine. It’s why you try to pack as many good ones down on the farm as you can. And they have packed the minors this offseason. No disagreement there.

Point 4: Would you be comfortable shipping off six of our prospects for Dan Haren just so we could boost our payroll by $5mil
Acquiring Haren would not be to simply increase payroll.

By bruce

December 21, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

Dave, For offseason blues remedy… what are your top ten movies or TV shows to rent and your five Braves games from this past season to go back and watch to help with withdrawal/coping. Thanks, Bruce PS Stubhub wrote today and said they were canceling my ticket order for the Nats game that was moved to opening day. I may call them for further explaination.