Braves

By McFann

February 8, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

Sheesh!! That last blog was the best thing ever!! Thanks for the new blog, DOB!! I hope we read from Chipper and maybe some other Braves later on this year, too.

Oh, BTW……first?

By Tomahawkin

February 8, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

D.O.B. In response to your question…

“Are you folks excited about spring training?”

You Damn Rite Playa! I hate this time of year (period after the Superbowl and before spring training, when there is nothing but basketball on…)

I noticed that K.J was money against the mets early in the season, If he puts up similiar numbers again this year I will definitely have to define him as one of the most underrated offensive second basemen in the league…

I’ve been up on the phillies forum during the last 2 weeks, and they are gunning for Santana and the mets, with the feeling of the braves as an afterthought, It remind’s of 2001 wher we were the serious underdogs…Hopefully we’ll “creep on ah comeup”

Go Braves…!

By Randy S

February 8, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

Even though the Braves’ confidence with Yunel taking over short on a daily basis was the overwhelming justification for trading Edgar, the outstanding 2007 KJ put together let them know that he could handle 2nd and Yunel would not be needed to platoon with him. Can’t wait to see KJ with more muscle, he had outstanding pop last year coupled with a solid, solid approach at the plate. He really seemed to know when to let it loose and when to shorten up his swing.

By ellaguru

February 8, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

Be nice to Dave, peoples, if you hit the store. I barely know what’s goin’ on in this place so there’s no reason to expect him to. He’s a champ, is he not. Dave’s my hero.

By jim

February 8, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

I think Kelly Johnson gets overlooked among the Braves young players such as Francouer, McCann, Escobar, and even Shaffer, but he could turn out to be he best of the lot. I look at him as a John Olerud with better than average speed.

By Tomahawkin

February 8, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

McFann that last blog was off da chain

Nuff Respect to “Hoss” for taking time out of his day to give a shoutout to us Braves Fans…

1 more week, and furthermore I’m so ready for SEC college baseball…

By Reid in EAV

February 8, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

There are really only two seasons for me: baseball and skiing. (Though I am a bit distracted by college football, I admit.) Now, I’ve done my last runs out west for the season, so that’s it for the skiing. (And my 5-year-old girl is asking me when we can go back to Braves games.) Baseball? You betcha!

By jim

February 8, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

Reading the last issue of Baseball America with the Texas Rangers top 10 prospects listed was a bit depressing. They project Salty to move to first base in the coming years, and did we have to throw in Neftali Feliz just to rent Mahay for 2 months? If we don’t resign Tex, this will be the worst trade of the JS era! We gave up far more than the Mets did to get Santana.

By SpringTraining

February 8, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

I love Kelly Johnson. He hustles and hes done more then fine on defense. This is a team of hitters and it feels good as this is the first year we are actually going to have hitting, pitching and solid defense all at once. I have my seat behind Teixeria again this year. Hope to see yall at some games.

GO BRAVES.

By Patrick

February 8, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Any new news on the Tex or Francoeuer negotiations???

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

Patrick, no news

By wiki

February 8, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

I’m on the same path regarding KJ’s progression….so much upside. I believe he well benefit being removed from the spotlight this spring versus last year when he was subject to scrutiny w/ a new defensive position, return from surgery, etc. Attention this year will be diverted to Kotsay, Escobar, Tommy G, Javy. I think he will be jostled around the order this year as well, especially if Kotsay succeeds since BC may not want to have 2 consecutive LH hitters at the top of the order, especially against lefty bullpen specialists. I think he could approach 90 RBIs hitting in the 7 hole but then again the impressive OBP makes it hard to keep him out of the top of the order.

By SpringTraining

February 8, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Patrick..Was at Fanfest in the season ticket holders area and was having conversations with some of the Braves brass that stopped by. That came up and they actually told us they werent confident of Tex signing. They told us that Liberty owning the braves really makes no difference in the fact that they will not overpay for a player.

I am hoping personally that Tex loves Atlanta and wants to put roots here. Maybe Tex is like Smolty and Chipper. Money does not rule their lives, being happy does and he will accept a decent contract to play for a winner. Time will tell.

By McFann

February 8, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

I’M READY FOR FEBRUARY FOURTEENTH!!! YOU GUYS ARE SO CORRECT: THIS TIME OF YEAR CANN GET BORING!!

(‘Sept for my brother’s b-day yesterday.)

By TennesseePaul

February 8, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Thanks DOB.

Now this is some news I like to hear. All this talk about Francoeur’s offseason training and BMac’s yoga it’s nice to know KJ is out there beefing up his routine to improve himself.
Couple all that with the past few days of hero worship and you got yourself a nice little transition from the cold miserable days of winter to the nice wonderful days of pitchers and catchers report… It’s beginning guys. 14 more days until the Dirtbags take the field. They have a solid ranking this year.

By Newman

February 8, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Out here in the middle is a robert earl keen song. REK is the man. You should give him his due. I loved that fact Chipper took some time with the fans.

By A famous wrestler

February 8, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

“Are you folks excited about spring training?”

OH - YEA!!!!

By j

February 8, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

D.O.B, Have you checked out Park Avenue Records in Orlando? Truly a great place to grab music. Also, honestly have high hopes for Hampton this year. Forgive the alliteration. Cheers, J

By Spider29

February 8, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

DOB, I am more than ready for spring training and the 2008 season! A good friend and I were discussing the state of the Braves for this season. One of the players we talked most about was Kelly. My friend isn’t sold on KJ as a starting ML second-baseman. I argued otherwise. I like his hard work on defense and think he will do nothing but get better. The guy can hit and seems to have an idea of what he wants to do for each at-bat. I hope he is the lead-off hitter but with his approach, he can be successful batting second, seventh or eighth. KJ is poised to have a great season as are the rest of the Braves. Thanks for your hard work, DOB. We all appreciate it so much.

By Tomahawkin

February 8, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Just took a look at the mets preview at espn.com, and After reading this article, I really find my boyz to be Huge Underdawgs…

I had ho no Idea that Ryan Church had 15 homers to go with 43 doubles…So that clears my assessment, that if all things go well for the mets they might come out as the best offensive team…

Also I think their rotation is a little underrated, Pedro isn’t the stopper he used to be but will still be among one of the best #2 starters in the league, But Oliver Perez and John Maine Scare me, because they have owned us the last 2 years…

And My final thing to keep in mind, I’m pretty sure the mets will add a proven starter prior to the trade dealine given the fact that they will probably have the added revenue since they will be moving into new digs in 09

BTW I’m dissappointed that their new park isn’t closer to Manhattan…

By Longwood's Finest

February 8, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

Finally some love for K.J. One of the purest hitter’s I’ve seen since someone named Hoss… Not saying he is going to be as good as him, but dang, that boy can flat out smack the ball around. I’m seeing his avg higher that .282 though and I’ll take 15-20 homers, 10 triples and 35 doubles anyday of the week from our second baseman.

Nice dude too- signed an autograph for me and chatted for a bit before a game in Washington last season

By Lee in S. GA

February 8, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

Obviously not a whole lot of NASCAR fans on this blog. Ready for spring training as much as the next guy or gal…. but this time of the year boring….no way with the Daytona 500 around the corner. GO BRAVES and GENTLEMEN START YOUR ENGINES.

By justinstud

February 8, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

At the beginning of last year I was blown away at Kelly’s patience at the plate and how is knowledge of the strike zone had come along. He looked like a productive lead off hitter. That fell off a bit, and at this point Escobar probably is the man for that slot in the order. He is a solid 2-hole hitter and if that OBP is up, Tex and Chipper should have a field day with those guys on base a lot.

As for the Tex trade rumors, I don’t understand because a lot of fans have conceded him leaving because of Boras. I think that him staying will depend on how well the team does and how welcome he is made to feel in Atlanta. Boras is the reason there is no loyalty in baseball anymore, and I hope Tex is the guy that finds the happy medium of making a lot of money and being somewhere he can win.

Need to lock Francoeur up with an extension. Should look into Blanton, he could be had with a prospect and a major leaguer. Benson is also a possibility that would not only bring a solid number 4 guy, but would also keep him out of Philly.

This looks like a solid club and I’m excited to see how it goes. I believe they will shock some people. I have seen several polls who say “who will win the east” or “who is the NL favorite?” and the Braves aren’t even a choice. That sucks and I believe the Bravos will be there.

By N8

February 8, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

Jim

Your 10:16 nailed it right on the head.

When that Santana trade happened, I thought the same exact thing. The Mets gave up literally nothing compared to what we gave up for Tex, and they got him signed within 48….er…50 hours.

Tex may NEVER re-sign with us.

We won’t be able to judge who got the better end of each trade until we see where Tex is playing next year, and how all the “prospects” in both trades pan out.

But at first glance (on paper), the Mets got a blue-light special, while we seemingly treated our trade like a hospital visit. By that, I mean getting “billed” 45 dollars for a bottle of tylonol.

We’ll see.

On a side note. I will no longer question anybody in the game of baseballs “credibility”. You all have shown me the light.

Mark McGwire is great!

Sammy Sosa is great!

Bonds is MORE great!

Clemens and Pettitte are the two greates players to ever wear pinstripes.

Rafael Palmeiro? Well he’s got a little somthin’ somthin for both the guys and the ladies, doesn’t he? If you want a guy that hits HR while approaching 40, he’s your guy. And if your a lady, lookin for a good time, he’s always got the little blue pill ready for action.

Whether you guys want to admit it or not (maybe this wasn’t the forum), it was a legitimate question. Or would you prefer I said something along the lines of “spunking on myself” when asking him a question?

It’s a simple question from my stand point.

If the answer may incriminate one’s self…….ignore it.

If there is no chance of the truth hurting that person….answer the question.

If I were to ask DOB if he murdered his ex-wife, what’s the ONLY answer he should be worried about giving?

Anyhow. Sorry to cause such a stir. Not that big of a deal.

Enjoy your weekend people.

By Tomahawkin

February 8, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

NASCAR, Uggh No! I’d rather watch my old WWF Videos, or better yet many on the ajc vent have made the case as to watch Traffic on the Northern arc of I-285 than to watch NASCAR, No Offense intended

By eware

February 8, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

Finally! I’ve been waiting for Kelly J. to get some respect around here. He seems like the essence of a team-player. I remember reading a few articles last year where players (not on the Braves roster) listed the most overlooked players, and Kelly was mentioned on quite a few.

The players respect him, and I’m glad to see the Braves nation coming to that conclusion, as well.

I’d like to see him batting lead-off and stealing bases.

Don’t smoke.

By Desert Brave

February 8, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

DOB - You da man! I really appreciate this blog and all the info you provide. I live in AZ and it’s hard to get good info on the Braves… will be even harder this year with no Braves on TBS. Man that was cool having Chipper on here!

By Epinephrine

February 8, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

I think a big year from KJ could really be a difference maker on this club. Assuming he continues his upward projection, and assuming Kotsay stays healthy, there shouldn’t be any easy outs throughout out lineup. That is pretty exciting-people ought to be getting pitches to hit. If KJ really is stronger, it should be a nice addition to power numbers as well.

I am definitely getting pretty jacked up for spring training.

By 22oz

February 8, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

My concern with KJ lies with whether or not Lillibridge makes the team as a backup. The need to get him enough at-bats to further develop him will make it all too tempting to platoon him with Kelly. I think at this point in his career it would hurt Kelly to be stuck in a platoon.

By 22oz

February 8, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

i would hardly call paying a pitcher ~$23 million a year for 6 years a “blue light special.”

By ncscoots

February 8, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

Last year, there were some here who were adamant that Kelly could move to 2B without a care in the world. After all, it’s just another INF position, right, LOL? Some posters here, on the other hand, were going Oh [sh—], oh [sh—].

Maybe some of our Strat-O-Matic experts who like to move players out of position at the drop of a hat could remember KJ’s comments at a later date. :-)

But the kid persevered. Got a year under his belt, and going-left out of his head. This year, we can begin to see how far his defense will take him.

By ChiTownBravo

February 8, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

Dave,

For those fans heading down to spring training in the coming weeks, can you offer any insight or tips for navigating the Disney Wide World of Sports complex? Are there better times than others to get autographs? Any good things you could suggest that maybe the average fan wouldn’t know about?

Thanks in advance, Pete

By NOLA Brave

February 8, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Love the blogs, man. First time, long time. Thanks for highlighting KJ. I’m a big fan of his. Love the way he plays, the effort he gives, and he’s a class act, too. A couple of years ago, he was signing a ball for me before a game, and my pen died on the “J” and he asked around for another pen so he could finish signing. I can see a lot of guys giving up and moving on to the next autograph, but KJ waited and did it right.

Speaking of classy, thanks to Chip for stopping by to blog with the fans…heckuva nice thing to do. I really appreciate the way guys like Chipper and Smoltz go out of their way to help the club (via contract adjustments) and interact with the fans.

Counting the days to the start of the season…have a great one, all…

By chiefknockahomershotmeabird

February 8, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

The only thing that concerns me with KJ getting stronger is if he is at the top of the line up. Most of your guys at this spot tend to be leaner and more flexible. Making sure they are on base more than power numbers. I don’t want him to get the Furcal’s disease and start trying to hit home runs. With KJ’s swing those will come unintentionally. He is in my opinion a pure hitter. He looks very much like Chipper without the power. That is what the Braves will need from him. If he does this I feel he will be one of the most consistent hitters on the team.

By Tomahawkin

February 8, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

DesertBrave No Braves on TBS Really Sucks, I live In cardinal country, So I will be watching a lot of the White Sox/Cubs, and Astros games

TBS Is Total-B.S. When it comes to braves fans…And that Show House of Payne is Garbage, there is only one Real Payne show that is “Very Funny”, and that is Martin Payne for “Martin”…

By Lee in S. GA

February 8, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

These multi-year pitcher signing backfire on teams so much. Randy Johnson (Yankees), Kevin Brown and yes even Mike Hampton come to mind. Santana may be the savor for the Mets but only time will tell.

By BrandonC

February 8, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

*Lee in S. GA *

I’m with you, speedweeks has started in Daytona, this is REALLY what gets me going for the new year. Bud Shootout, Duel Races, Truck race, Nationwide race and the Daytona 500 all in a single week. Thank God for NASCAR racing. And we usually see some Braves down there since it’s right when they are reporting for ST. I’v seen Chipper, Hampton and Giles there before. And I know Bobby is a big fan, but I doubt he’ll brave the crowd.

I have no doubt that KJ will have a monster year. It’s good to know that he’s bulking up a bit so he can stay strong down the stretch. I don’t think it’s unrealistic at all to project him as a .295-.300 hitter in 2008. He has great plate disipline and smacks it to all fields. And he’s only going to get better on defense, he just needs to work on that back-hand a bit and he’ll be fine.

By N8

February 8, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

“i would hardly call paying a pitcher ~$23 million a year for 6 years a “blue light special.”

You don’t think it’s gonna take THAT to sign Tex (along with the prospects we gave up)?

By 3trees

February 8, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

ellaguru - “Dave’s my hero.” And the wind beneath our feet… Just kidding.

Newman - pretty sure that DOB has given a proper shout out to REK. He is a good writer/singer.

Sorry I missed the Chipper hubbub. Cool thing, though.

February optimism is a beautiful thing. Good luck in O’ville, DOB. Keep up the great work. You’re outta there before my shift is over, but make that cash register sing!

Go Braves!

By richbrave

February 8, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

Brother Dave:

And now you are? RICH? Damn, why didn’t I pursue journalism in school. I always enjoy stringing words together. To think I could have been rich like my hero O’B - wan. Ju8st kiddin’ Dave. A man should always pursue what he enjoys best. That’s where he does his best work. Chip likes hitting. You, music - the audible kind, and as a wordsmith, the evocative kind. Keep it up biker - dude. Great blog.

By SpringTraining

February 8, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

If Kelly starts to smack them out then they could move him down the line some. Escobar and Kotsay can handle the #1 and 2 spot. I have watched Kotsay and he can smack it right down the base line for a double in a minute. He would do great in the number 2. Just hope his back is healthy for a full season. I dont ever really see KJ turning into a swing machine like Furcal did anyway. Kellys to controlled a hitter. He knows what hes doing.

By ajr_3

February 8, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

didn’t kj smack a lead of homer or two against the mets last year? he’s very underrated, should make all-star game this year.

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

Newman, I’m fairly certainly that Keen covered McMurtry on Out Here in the Middle, but they’re both incredible songwriters. Two of the very finest.

J, yes I’ve been to Park Ave CD in Orlando. Very good selection of new CDs. But for used … can’t beat Ella Guru (shameless plug, since I’m sitting in here minding the store as we speak. It ain’t open until noon, but I’ll turn on the lights if you get here before then).

By richbrave

February 8, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

RANDY S:

Like your post re: KJ and his swing. Great bat discipline. Yunel to lead off. Kelly second. Chip’s gonna’ see a lot of baserunners to move over. Tex may be battin’ lead off with no runners on because the score’s three to 0 after the bottom of the first GETS STARTED.

By timmythebrave

February 8, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

N8, the question wasn’t bad, but the response post at 4:30 am was better.

By Hootie Bookems

February 8, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

DOB- How has the team reacted to the Mets getting Santana?

By Hunk Erdown

February 8, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

DOB-

I appreciate the great job you do for us, the fans. The last couple of days have been awesome.

When you get down to Orlando do us a favor and get Hoss to try to compare the way he stares down a 20 game winning pitcher to sitting 30 feet up a tree and getting a Wally-Wallhanger in the sites of his bow. Does the “buck-fever” feeling a hunter gets relate to any part of Chipper’s game? I guess it takes a hunter to understand, but I truly believe that Chipper could help out younger guys and their patience at the plate by taking them on a simple deer hunt.

I’ve got two sons and have been blessed to be able to coach them in little league along with several hundred other youngsters. In Chipper’s MVP year I invented a simple device to teach them how to get their timing down at the plate, based on Chipper’s routine. It worked so well that several of the other teams used it and some still are. I even thought about contacting Chipper or someone about marketing it, but didn’t think I’d be taken seriously. The point is that he has helped so many people, and he don’t even know about it. It sure helps that he is someone that they can look up to as a human being. Its ironic how some people get their heads so far up in the clouds that it ends up in their a$$. Chipper has always struck me as the type of guy that can temper the stardom into still being a regular and likable guy, he’s kinda proved that the last few days hasn’t he? Here’s to ya, Chipper! I hope you’re healthy the next several years and are able to lead the Braves into a great last hoorah for Bobby, Smoltzie, yourself, and us loyal fans.

By Murphy

February 8, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

Thanks for the reminder DOB. I had forgotten how much fun it was to watch KJ hit last year. His swing is just so smooth and graceful…especially when compared to our former 2nd baseman who seemed to be swinging from his big toe.

By everbraves

February 8, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

KJ will have a great year!! Whether Lillibridge makes the Big or not, KJ is Braves 2nd baseman. But, what about Prado? He’ll be in there hustling for 2nd too. What are Prados options?

By JD

February 8, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

I am so excited that Spring Training is practically here! It seems like it’s been forever since we seen the Bravos take the field! I think that Chipper is a real class act for taking the time to interact with the fans and knowing that it was important to him makes it all the more genuine! I’m looking forward to a long season of blogs ahead! GO BRAVOS!!!

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

KJ’s indeed got a swing that’s a thing of beauty. I always remember how 6” (what Pendleton and plenty others call Bobby, with a tone of respect) raved about a kid’s swing, or rather his “setup,” at every opportunity, as he did for the first year or so that K.J. was up….

Hold on, customer at register….

Ding ding ding. FIRST SALE for mr. record store attendant.

Young dude just bought the new Alicia Keys CD.

Coolest part of this job is being able to pick music to play on the store stereo. I went through and quickly got a stack of stuff from the used bins — started off with some REM Automatic For the People, now a little live Van Morrison. We’re easing into things with the mellow stuff.

Got some Prince, Radiohead, some Dylan, some early Joe Jackson, Pretenders (II) and others ready to spin….

By SAMMY THE HEAD MILLER

February 8, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

We appreciate you doing that blog Hoss! You the man! Hope you had a great hunting season and we look forward to seeing ya’ll play some ball this upcoming year! Go Bravos! Smoltz for Prez!

By N8

February 8, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

timmythebrave

I agree that Jed’s response was hilarious. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Contrary to what Jed may think about me or how I feel about his posts, I find him to be refreshingly honest, and to the point.

And had I been looking to make Chipper “cry” as though I was Barbara Walters interviewing him, Jed’s response would be dead on.

But I wasn’t. I wanted to know how he (as a player that many feel is clean and was clean during his MVP year of 99), felt about ALL players getting lumped together with the others, and that nobody will ever really know the truth about who used and who didn’t.

Nothing more.

It’s kinda like my bandmates (and all musicians). I’ve gotta guy playing with me, that is about the same age as I am (mid-30’s), who has been clean and sober (he never did anything stronger than pot, but was a HEAVY drinker), for 12 years. I know this, because my wedding night was the last night he drank.

But low and behold, EVERY night we play, at least one person (usually more), ask him if he either (a) knows where they can score some “stuff” or (b) if he is interested in getting high, or doing a line.

He has long hair, and plays in a band. Why is it that everybody assumes that your on drugs, dealing drugs or looking to score drugs?

For the same reasons that ANY player that has strapped on the leotard since the late 80’s until now, is going to have their achievements questioned.

EVERYBODY gets lumped together, like it or not.

I’ll repeat. It was a simple question, that was not (and still is not) out of line.

By Epinephrine

February 8, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

I second ChiTownBravo-A blog on a guide to spring training through the eyes of DOB (ie, restaurants, ballparks, seedy bars that people should check out) would be much appreciated.

By Adam

February 8, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

I believe KJ will really develop much more power in the next couple of seasons. He has as good a swing as anyone on the Braves and has great hands. His swing is the type you would want to teach to a kid (short, compact, and balanced). I think he will thrive in hitting anywhere in the order. Defensively he will get better. I think KJ has a very bright future.

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

Hunk Erdown, that’s an interesting point, and I’d bet there could be something to that, the hunting/hitting thing….

Hootie Bookems, I did a story last week about Braves reactions to Santana. Probably still on our website on the Braves page. Gist of it was, they all respect Santana a great deal, call him arguably the best pitcher in ‘ball, say it’s great for Mets, etc, but they all add that they like their own team and their own pitching staff a great deal and are ready for a tight division race.

Nobody whatsoever seemed downcast or had a we’re-doomed attitude, I can assure you, either in their on or off-record comments.

By Fla Native RHETT

February 8, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

As someone who grew up around Chipper it makes me so very proud to see the level of greatness the ol’ fern packer has attaned. Living in Florida I can’t see as many games as I would like, (thanks for XM) but now that TBS has canned the Braves I guess I might as well get the MLB package. Here is to (IMHO) the best 3rd baseman and swith hitter to play the game.

GO BRAVES / Go Gators (had to say it)

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Another sale, this time the Anna Kramer & Lost Cause CD. I’m telling you, that’s a good CD. Fine purchase, sir.

By Ghost of GilGarrido

February 8, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

I’m kinda amazed (but grateful) that I was one of the bloggers that U Kno Who called out last night to thank for their posts. I feel a bit sheepish that it was me (a newbie blogger, but longtime reader) rather than some of you who keep the blog going and were more deserving.

Still, it was very cool of CJ to visit here and respond to us. This looongtime Braves fan (as you might tell from my handle) thanks both him and DOB again.

And I still think a 6-man rotation might prove to be a big advantage for us this year, given the particular make-up of our rotation (2 glorious geezers, a prime-timer, an injury-riddled old ace, an injury-riddled ex-window installer and upcoming ace, and promising rookies not yet used to the grind). Hope Bobby considers it …

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

Bookems, this was a quote from Glavine in my story, which should give you some idea the reaction:

“Obviously the Mets adding Santana is huge for them. He’s arguably the best pitcher in the game right now.

“They have every reason to be excited about their team. But so do we.”

Glavine added, “When Randy Johnson went to the Yankees four years ago everybody was ready to hand them the World Series trophy, and it never happened.”

By Geoff

February 8, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

DOB: Why is atlanta interested in Matt Bush from the Padres? (mlbtraderumors.com) He was their 1st round pick in 2004, hasnt made it out of A-ball as a SS, then they made hmi pitcher who needs Tommy John. I hope atlanta doesnt offer anything else other than a box of oranges for this guy!

By Hunk Erdown

February 8, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

N8-

A baseball star taking steroids would kinda be like Sevie Ray Vaughn dubbing a Jimi Hendrix rip over his own… Its just not necessary. Baseball, at its core, has a purity to it that, like music, can really touch and move a fans spirit. Bonds has become the Milli Vanilli of sports imo. The shame of it to him personally, if not now, will someday be punishment enough to him and others who have diluted the purity of the “game” by their own lack of integrity.

By Ron Roberts

February 8, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Automatic For The People… Some REM fans hated that album; it’s my favorite.

Jim, and N8, I’m with you guys, looking in hindsight @ the Tex trade compared to the way the Mets and Twins handled their dealings.

However, I think if we’d have been forced to sign Tex long-term at the same time, the deal wouldn’t have gone down last year, at all. Now, in retrospect, that wouldn’t have mattered in the outcome of last season, but imagine us having not re-signed Andruw and not having Teixera in the lineup, too, for this season. Free agent offerings were pretty paltry, when it comes to obtaining a big bat, so we’dve had one heck of an offensive slide.

But then, maybe that would’ve pushed us harder to involve ourselves in the Santana sweepstakes, too… who knows.

By ajr_3

February 8, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

If I recall, the Braves had him beat last year. Huddy outpitched him as a matter of fact. But ofcourse Wickman came in and blew it.

By SpringTraining

February 8, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

People need to realize that one player does not a team make, one player can help a team but it cant work unless the team plays as a team. Thats the problem with a lot of clubs. Thats why the braves have been so good. Team play.

By Harry

February 8, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

DOB:

Have you picked up Levon Helm’s Dirt Farmer. Very solid stuff from a American legend. Larry Campbell, from Dylan’s band, produced it. If you haven’t already, give it a spin at the store today.

Also, anyone have any insight into the HD situation with FSN and SS? Last year Comcast had a pitiful schedule on channel 755.

By JB

February 8, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

DOB, Great blog. REK will get credit when he starts giving McMurtry credit for “Level Land”. Give the McMurtry “Live at Aught-Three” CD a listen. It’s better every time I listen.

Go Bravos

By Ghost of GilGarrido

February 8, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

DOB: Did you say that you were manning the register only today, or tomorrow as well? Does Ella Guru have any old Graham Parker (can’t find “Howlin’ Wind” or “Heat Treatment” anywhere), Jonathan Richman (“Jonathan Sings”) or The The’s “Dusk” in stock? My cds are scratched and those are on my now hard-to-find list, together with Hank Sr. Live at the Opry and Ellington at Newport ‘56. No store around L5P has any of those that I could find, and if Ella does, I’ll try to head over to Toco Hills tomorrow. Thanks, Mr. Record Store guy. (You must be channeling John Cusack in “High Fidelity.”)

By CC Rider

February 8, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

A quick comment on Texiera: I hope we sign him really bad, but IF he leaves for greener$$ pastures we are in good shape. Kelly could switch to first base and Brent Lillibridge could play 2nd. We lose power and RBIs but pickup needed speed. The payroll could go to bolster the pitching staff. A few years from now Jason Heyward might be ready and if Chipper is ready to retire, Kelly could move to 3rd and Heyward could take over 1st. Kelly’s versatility makes him a very valuable player. Brandon Jones and Gorky Hernandez can fight it out for left field. A different type of team but a speedy, versatile, great defensive team. G. Hernandez, Lillibridge. Schafer, Heyward, Franceour, McCann, Johnson and Escobar. A top notch pitching staff and it kind of reminds you of the Braves of the early 90’s.

By Hunk Erdown

February 8, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

DOB-

When Chipper steps to the plate they blast Crazy Train out over the speakers. If you were stepping up to the plate, what would you want blasted out? For me, I think I’d have to change it up from time to time, but I’m leaning toward “Hen Layin’ Rooster” by Dr. John… lol

By SpringTraining

February 8, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

DOB I just looked at the list of the non-roster invitees. Not counting our minors and Javy, Im not impressed much. What do the braves see in these players to give a invite?

By etownbrave

February 8, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

Read regularly and enjoy most. DOB does such a phenomenal job keeping all of us informed and psyched waiting for the real season to start. Thoroughly enjoyed Chipper’s posts and that he had to leave to help with homework. We sometimes forget that away from the Ted, these guys have lives just like the rest of us. Love to watch KJ hit…sweet and easy like Chipper’s and seems to be such a nice young man. Love the braves and am counting the days. Can’t wait to hear Pete and Skip on the radio!

By Ron Roberts

February 8, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

Also thought it was insightful to get some thoughs from Chipper about the rotation and the options he forsees us having.

And really excited to hear (at least from his vantage) that the Braves are looking to break out the navy blue alt jerseys this season. WAYYYYY overdue, especially since they broke out those “electric” red jerseys for Sundays. Never was wild about them.

By Lew

February 8, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

DOB-Say Hi to Don for me. I need to place another order with him when I get back from Orlando.

By CC Rider

February 8, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

By the Way: DOB, Did you notice when word got around that Chipper was on the blog, the number of new bloggers posting skyrocketed? What do you think, were they people who keep up with the blog, but never post or star struck fans just wanting to talk ball with Chipper. I found it interesting. I also noticed the regular bloggers were more restrained in their number of questions and number of posts. Lots of fun either way.

By OrlandoFan

February 8, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

DOB, I can’t believe your afternoon playlist didn’t include your man, Johnny Cash.

By ajr_3

February 8, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

I check up on this blog many times a day, but never post. But the whole “You know who” thing sparked my interest a little more and i thought it would be cool to interact with a group of people like this.

By WarParty

February 8, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

Speaking of jerseys for the Braves on Sundays or just an alternative: How about replicating the NYG jersey/pants/socks/cap color combo they showed in the Superbowl?

It’s a nice look and with red numbers on a white jersey, a lot cooler for the players to wear on hot summer afternoons.

By stamper

February 8, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

DOB- what do you think of the Led Zeppelin hubbub at bonnaroo? announcement was made at midnight on wednesday that they would be there - then, by 7 am… it was gone. weird

also… what do you think of the lineup? a lot of people are disappointed with Metallica and Kayne West.

i’m excited… mostly cause i wanna see Vampire Weekend and Black Kids. The Raconteurs and Pearl Jam will put on a great show, i imagine.

-stamper

By McFann

February 8, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

Oh, you recall correctly, ajr_3, if you’re referring to Santana. The Braves had him beat 2-0 (RBI from Diaz and SOLO HOMER by MCCANN), but Wickman came in and blew the thing up. If we had back those six blown saves of his……well, I guess that’d be asking too much…

By stynes

February 8, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Maybe one day Chipper and other folks driving more and more interest to the old DOB blog will convince the AJC folks to spend some money on some real forum software rather than this crap. — stepping down off my soap box now —

Couldn’t agree with you more on KJ, though. Have loved his swing since I first saw him. His set up reminds me a little bit of Will Clark in his earlier days but his swing doesn’t have the same natural uppercut that Clark had. Later in his career Clark opened up his front side a little more in his setup. Probably the bad knees failing him. Anyway, back to KJ.

Not enough good things to say about the guy. Total team player to switch positions like that with not a single word of complaint. Move him around in the batting order. Platoon him. And the whole time, all he does is catch touchdowns… er… rake.

Great setup, sweet swing, nice guy and highly underrated. Glad he’s a Brave. Braves should lock up him now before the rest of the league realizes what they’ve got.

By Salty

February 8, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

DO’B Alicia Keys…good on the ears and the eyes! Did the young man know he was serviced by ‘U Know Who’s’ personal d’bag? LOL! :-)

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

OrlandoFan, we’re putting on Cash next, right after this Lou Reed “New York” finishes…

We’re ringing up sales left and right now, including good blogger Doc, who just stopped in and took home a fistful of CDs, including some used ones with the DOB discount. Sold him the new ones by Sharon Jones & Dap Kings and the DBT, and he bought the one I was playing in the store, Van’s Live in San Francisco….

Stamper, I hadn’t heard about the Led Zep rumor/announcement at Bonnarroo. That would almost be worth the hours-long wait in traffic to get into that site. That’d be amazing to see them there.

Why would people be disappointed that Metallica and Kanye were there? People need to be a bit more open-minded, don’t you think? Doesn’t all have to be all organic or noodling whatever. Metallica is incredible live, and Kanye will put on a show.

Raconteurs need to put out a new album, because I loved the last one, more than i liked the last two White Stripes albums.

By N8

February 8, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

SpringTraining

“People need to realize that one player does not a team make…”

Tell that to the 1993 Braves. They were 53-39 (still very respectable - but 10.5 games behind the Giants - who went on to win 103 games WITH Bonds on their team, after only winning 72 games in 1992).

After the Braves acquired McGriff, they proceeded to go 51-19 the rest of the way (which of course, was followed by choking against the Phils in the playoffs).

I’d say from the looks of it, “one player” made all the difference in the world to those two teams that year.

Now, had you said, it depends on what one player is being added (along with who is being subtracted), on whether the impact will be directly felt.

In 1997, McGriff had 22 HR and 97 RBI for the Braves. They signed the Big Cat for the 1998 season, who had 44 HR and 121 RBI.

Obviously a big jump in HR from our clean-up hitter, but only 24 more RBI (which is a big ammount - before you jump all over me). But to me, the “numbers” weren’t the biggest thing that impacted the team.

It was that he was right-handed and put up those numbers between Chipper and Klesko, followed by Andruw. It was a RH batter to “tutor” Andruw. Very similar to what Glavine will do for Chuck and (or) Jo-Jo.

So yes. The Mets are adding arguably the best pitcher in baseball. But lets not forget, he literally collapsed in September, and has NEVER been a big-game postseason pitcher before. Add to that, he had only two more wins (and a few more losses) than the guy that he’s replacing in the Mets rotation……Tom Glavine.

So, IMO, the “impact” that Glavine will have on our rotation will be MUCH greater (based on who he’s bumping down a spot), than what Santana’s impact will be on the Mets rotation, based on who he’s replacing.

Us adding Glavine might be worth upwards of 10 more victories for us this year (due to innings the bullpen doesn’t have to pitch - and guys who AREN’T ready having to pitch in the 5th spot), where based on what Glavine did for the Mets last year, and what Santana has done the past few years (not much different in terms of wins), adding Santana might be good for about 3-5 more wins.

Hmmmm. That would put both the Mets and the Braves around 92-94 wins (give or take), when adding those “extra wins” to last year’s final standings.

NOBODY (Mets, Phillies, Braves), is running away with this division, barring severe injuries to the superstars.

Hang on for the ride.

By ajr_3

February 8, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

You’re right Mcfann, asking for Bob Wickman to do his job would be too much to ask. Unless you paid him with more cheesy puffs! Im not really concerned with the closers role anyways. Soriano proved he was a very durable reliever(except for the stretch where he couldn’t stop giving up homeruns). He was always very dominant even in his time in Seattle. If he for some unlikely reason pulls a wickman, we’ve got Moylan, who last year was one of the best relievers in baseball. There should be no reason the Bravos don’t take the east in 08.

By OrlandoFan

February 8, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

I agree with N8…. Barring injuries, this will be a 3-team race. In fact, I think all the NL divisions will be extremely close this year. Central is not strong but balanced, and this is the Cubs’ “milennial season” — 100 years since they last won. Might be hard to beat the karma of the goat. And the West will be a beast among the Dbacks, Padres, Rockies and Dodgers. Best record in the entire NL might be 90-92 victories. It’s going to be a tight year.

By TennesseePaul

February 8, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

The NL East is far from a two-team race. The Braves, position by position, are superior to the Mets and comparable to the Phillies. Their rotation depth should enable them to withstand injuries better than their division rivals, and their bullpen is also full of options.

CATCHER — Brian McCann, third among NL catchers in on-base/slugging percentage last season, is far more of an offensive threat than the Mets’ Brian Schneider or Phillies’ Carlos Ruiz.

FIRST BASE — Mark Teixeira vs. Ryan Howard is no worse than a push. Both are significantly more dangerous than the Mets’ Carlos Delgado.

SECOND BASE — The Phillies’ Chase Utley is by far the best offensive second baseman in the game, but the Braves’ Kelly Johnson ranked third in the NL last season in OPS at the position. The Mets’ Luis Castillo owns a .368 career on-base percentage, but has no power and no longer steals bases the way he once did.

THIRD BASE — The Braves’ Chipper Jones led all NL third basemen in OPS last season, including the Mets’ David Wright. Problem is, Jones hasn’t played more than 137 games in a season since 2003. Feliz will help replace Rowand’s right-handed power.

LEFT FIELD — Moises Alou, 41, is a terrific offensive player, but once he is injured — and he will be injured — the Mets’ corner outfielders likely will be Church and Endy Chavez. The Phillies’ Pat Burrell was revived as an offensive force last season. The Braves’ Matt Diaz is a lefty masher and not bad against righties, either. The emergence of rookie Brandon Jones would enable manager Bobby Cox to use another platoon to maximum advantage.

CENTER FIELD — The Mets’ Carlos Beltran rates a big edge over the Phillies’ Shane Victorino, and an even bigger edge over the Braves’ oft-injured Mark Kotsay. But the Braves’ No. 1 prospect, Jordan Schaefer, could come on quickly, and Gregor Blanco had a good winter.

RIGHT FIELD — Also not close, but in the Braves’ favor. Jeff Francoeur is far preferable to the Mets’ Chavez/Church duo and the Phillies’ Geoff Jenkins/So Taguchi/Jason Werth combination.

— Ken Rosenthal

By McFann

February 8, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

What I meant by “too much to ask” was that it would be a bit much to expect a closer to save every game. (But if any of you know of a closer that did save every game he pitched in one season, I’d love to know, too.) The Braves finished five games behind the Phillies. If they had those six blown saves of Wickman’s back as wins, well, they’d’a been the champs. Oh well.

i thought it would be cool to interact with a group of people like this.

It is fun to interact on this thing. Unfortunately, I didn’t start because of something cool like Chipper comin’ on, I got my start because of a Mets fan. But having Chipper here has been, well, AMAZIN’!!

Funny thing, though…all those Mets fans disappeared within the past 24 hours…

By Chris

February 8, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

It killed me to see fans on here last season slamming KJ. Any guy that goes through as much as he has in what, the last 3 seasons, deserves a fair shot. He deserves to be in the leadoff spot and not flip-flopped around like Bobby did last season. Seems like he’s always on base, and I really think he could score 100 runs this year w/ Hoss & Tex behind him. Keep him at the 1 spot Bobby unless it OBVIOUSLY isn’t working w/ KJ up there. This guy will be an All Star this year or the next…write that down!

By McFann

February 8, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

CATCHER— Brian McCann, third among NL catchers in on-base/slugging percentage last season, is far more of an offensive threat than the Mets’ Brian Schneider or Phillies’ Carlos Ruiz.*

Couldn’t agree more, 10Paul.

By stynes

February 8, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

Love the way he ends the article, TenPaul…

“The Braves, under Cox, will play the game properly. Only a fool would ignore them.”

By stamper

February 8, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

DOB - As for the rumor/announcement - more than 15 different sites posted it, including NME, AP, Newsweek. all of them have since deleted them from the list. conspiracy?

I’ll see Metallica. that should be pretty cool. but i’ll be watching someone else or sleeping when Kayne is on stage - i have no interest in seeing his set. i think he’s a tool.

Gogol Bordello will be back - those guys are insane and a lot of fun.

as for the wait to get in… as long as you leave before 3 am from atlanta on the day of - you’ll be unpacked and have camp set up before 9 am… after that? don’t know long it’d take.

By Chris

February 8, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

Think I’m going to change my name to Paddy McGillicutty, to embrace my Irish roots.

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Just saw this on Buster’s blog, from something he wrote about the few teams that have pitching depth:

The Braves are another team that has seemingly created ample rotation depth for itself, which makes sense: The Braves are relying on a 40-year-old John Smoltz and a 41-year-old Tom Glavine at the front end of their rotation, along with Tim Hudson, and their expectation is that the oft-injured Mike Hampton — who hasn’t pitched in a major league game since Aug. 19, 2005 — will be a help.

“Our doctors and trainers are saying he’ll have no restrictions coming into spring training,” says Atlanta general manager Frank Wren. “He’s doing well, he’s throwing off a mound.” “His stuff is outstanding. From what we saw in Mexico, he looks like the old Mike Hampton. We’re very hopeful he can put the injury stuff behind him.”

So, as Wren considers his rotation possibilities, the Braves would seem to go at least eight deep: Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, Chuck James, Hampton, Jair Jurrjens, Jo-Jo Reyes, and Buddy Carlyle.

It is very rare that a team can withstand two or three hits to its rotation and still make the playoffs; the Phillies managed to do it last year, while the Brewers could not, with their bullpen eventually paying the price for the weakness of the starters.

By Paddy McGillicutty

February 8, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

Ahhh, that’s better. DOB, saw The Bravery in concert Wednesday night and they put on a helluva show. Are you a fan of theirs?

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Just got the scoop from one of my bosses about the Zep rumor. It’s not Zep. It’s an all-female band with a name that sounds very similar to Led Zeppelin. That’s the one playing Bonnaroo.

By McFann

February 8, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

Oh wow. I didn’t realize that was from Ken Rosenthal. Sheesh, and I used to pick on the poor guy. (I don’t really know why. I never said anything mean about him, just kinda chuckled at the way he stands there with the mike and moves his hands as he speaks.) But really, I agree word-for-word.

By Braveheart

February 8, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Well, at least one good thing came out of the writer’s strike:

Chipper Jones got so freaking bored, for some reason, he found us entertaining.

Just kidding. Thanks Chipper. Very cool. Many fans see you as a God who can do no wrong. Others have impossible expectations for you that you can never live up to. So, it’s beyond cool that you dropped by to tell people wassup and let all of us fools on here know you are just another regular dude dealing with the wife and kids, bored with television, and dying to talk some baseball.

By Mike Honcho

February 8, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Record Store version of DOB,

I’m trying to get into Townes Van Zandt after watching a documentary about him with my dad. But I literally have no idea what album I should start with. Got a suggestion?

By bravesman

February 8, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

how sweet was it to have chipper chat with everyone the last couple of days. dunno bout u guys but it seemed like all the idiot mets fans shut the heck up after they realized chipper was actually chatting with his fans.

By ajr_3

February 8, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

McFann, In 2006 w/ the bucs, Mike Gonzalez converted 24/24 save opportunities. Although it’s not a huge amount, it shows consistency. And if it means anything, he converted both his s/o’s in 07. Too bad we won’t have him back to start the season.

By chuckw/deadjournalist

February 8, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

what a day to be on the road with work - and not know about DOB at elle guru until i am back at work! damn it!

although i’ll be by there tomorrow …

By timmythebrave

February 8, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

I don’t think I will be going to bonnaroo this year. I like some of the bands but not enough of my favorites to warrant $250-$300 and HOT weather

By stamper

February 8, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

yeah… Lez Zeppelin - they were on the list as well at the same time.

By uga-brave

February 8, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

kelly johnson should have a really good year, however i dont see him hitting in the 2 hole. the one offensive area he really needs to improve in are his strikeouts. he K’d 117 times last year, not ideal for a two hitter.

i like him at leadoff or in the 7 hole.

By Hammy the Brave

February 8, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I’m really glad Chipper has come on here and answered so many questions, as well as shown his own enthusiasm for all things Bravos! Hopefully more players will see this blog as an opportunity to connect with the fans, and increase interest in the Braves.

Can you or Carroll give me insight into FW’s and farm director Kemp’s perspectives on several minor leaguers? Ryan Basner(according to Shanks might have 4 pitches and throws in the 90’s- Can he be a starter?), Dan Smith(similar fb, changeup,undeveloped 3rd pitch reperatoire to James, according to Shanks- Can he be a setup lefty in bullpen?); Francisco Bueno(Cuban lefty at AA then AAA last yr., Shanks seems to think can only be bullpen lefty- Can’t he be a potential starter?); Zach Schreiber(How good a relief prospect is he, does he throw that hard?); Have the Braves lost much faith in 3B prospects Van Pope(Does he have real power?) and Campbell(attitude/maturity issues?- but IMO maybe our best/closest to majors 3B prospect); Diory Hernandez and JC Holt(Are they potential starters at 2B in Atlanta or backups? Does Hernandez have basestealing speed and how does he project as a hitter?); Carl Loedenthal(I know he’s older, but he’s never mentioned in CF equation- can’t he be at least a backup in majors?)

Can’t wait for ST,

Hammy the Brave

By bravesman

February 8, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

just curious to see how far everyone thinks the Braves will go this year? with the lineup the Braves have now with the pitching depth I see them sweeping thru the playoffs 11-0 reclaiming the W.S. and starting a new division, and W.S. streak.

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Good position-by-position breakdown by Rosenthal, including good points about injury-prone guys…

chuck, we just sold these three used CDs to another blogger: Johnny Cash (an early compilation, Sun stuff), REM’s Murmur, and a Stevie Ray & Double Trouble.

By bravesman

February 8, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

hey DOB, enjoy reading your articles and blog’s, do you see any chance of Mike Hampton going to the bullpen like Smoltz did a few years ago?

By Paddy McGillicutty

February 8, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

As an LSU guy, I certainly hope J.C. can make it with my favorite team. However, with KJ and Schafer, looks like Holt could just be some attractive trade bait. Could we maybe dangle him to Oakland and Ka’aihue (plus others presumably) to try and get Blanton? They’re going to need a 2nd baseman when Ellis leaves and that is J.C.’s natural position. Probably just wishful thinking though…

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

February 8, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

In truth , until watching the Yankees exercise some financial restraint this past off-season , I would have believed that the Braves had no chance of signing Teixeira to a long term contract.

Now , I’m not so sure. I think the Braves have at least a fighting chance.

With Hampton’s bloated contract coming off the books after this season , the Braves will have a few extra dollars to spend.

Then there is the matter of Tom Glavine and his eight million dollar contract , will he play beyond this season ?

I of course did some digging. When comparing the contracts of some other premier first baseman , sixteen million per season seems to be the average.

16 to 18 million per season would be about right if the Braves are to sign Teixeira long term.

We know Teixeira wants to stay in Atlanta , he played his collegiate career at Georgia Tech and his wife is a native.

Everybody loves playing for Bobby Cox.

Scott Boras is a big factor. But , he has obviously lost his aura of invincibility thanks to Alex Rodriguez.

We shall see what happens. I think the Braves will be able to negotiate with Teixeira and make a competitive offer.

By Tonya

February 8, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

ugabrave, klobber hasn’t been kidnapped or brainwashed. He still reads from time to time and will be back when he has something interesting to say.

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

Mike Honcho, that’s a great doc about Townes, isn’t it? Sad and wrenching at times, but great stuff. What a genius. If I ever have a daughter, I want to name her Katie Belle (Townes’ daughter’s name).

Start with the reissued version of Rear View Mirror and the High, Low and In Between/Late Great CD, which is actually two albums on one CD. You’ll be totally hooked after listening to either of these CDs a few times. The man had few peers as a songwriter, and his voice is inimitable. You can hear the hard living in it.

By McFann

February 8, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Thanks, ajr_3. I like to be proven wrong in that sense. (Unless you would’ve typed Billy Wagner, heh heh!)

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

Bravesman, I think Chipper made a good point when he mentioned that possibility about Hampton, as a means to help him build arm strength and since the Braves have other options for the rotation. But if he’s healthy, can’t see him staying there all year. Imagine that: a $15 million non-closing reliever.

But yes, I could see him getting some worth there early. Don’t know the likelihood.

By Braves Fan

February 8, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

DOB, got any Beatles albums you like? They’re my favorite band, but I’ve never heard you mention them. Not a fan?

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

Clemens stuff is only going to get uglier, I imagine….

Rockin’ to some Pretenders II right now, after spinning the Cash “Unchained” disc…. This is kinda fun. Other than it being a beautiful, sunny day out and me sacrificing a great day to be on the bike….

Man, was Chrissie Hynde the bomb back then, or what? One of the great rock voices….

By Marty

February 8, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

DOB, I am more excited about spring training than you would believe. Three friends of mine and I are going down to Orlando on the 29th. This will be my 4th straight year down there. One of the guys I’m going with is a friend from growing up who has since moved to Chicago but still loves the Braves (this will be our third trip down together), another is his brother (this will be his first spring training), and the third guy is — get this — a BRAVES FAN FROM ALBANY, NY whom we met in March ‘06 when we and he both happened to be at Osceola County Stadium in Kissimmee to see the Braves play the Astros.

Since that year, it has become an annual tradition for the three of us. It’s just so much different from regular-season baseball, and so much fun, that even though the three of us are all in our 20s (some of us more so than others), we still get giddy about the trip and count down for months ahead of time.

Wanna grab a beer down in Orlando?

P.S. I hate Disney, too.

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

Mike Honcho, just checked and Don’s got several solid Townes CDs here in the store, including the two-disc soundtrack from Be Here To Love Me, which I’m assuming is the documentary you saw. That might be the way to go, since it’s got all his great stuff on it. But if you don’t want to spend $20, there’s also a copy of High, Low and In Between here.

By brnt247

February 8, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

KJ is the third best hitter on this team in my opinion. He’ll surprise a lot of people this year and should make the All-Star team. The only second basemen in the league that is clearly better is Chase Utley.

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Braves Fan, of course I’m a fan. How can anyone who loves rock and/or pop music not like the Beatles? I have most of their albums, particularly like Abbey Road, Revolver, Rubber Soul, Sgt. Pepper’s, and the White Album.

By doc

February 8, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

yeah braveheart i had the same thought that night how lucky to have a writers strike to have u kno who involved.

enjoyed meeting the main man today. cool digs but don needs to check and make sure all the math figures out right. the guys good with words not numbers. keep the day job as they say. heh heh

By N8

February 8, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

Coach

Good points about Tex, in relation to Hampton’s (for sure) and Glavine’s (more than likely) salaries coming off the books.

Especially if Brandon Jones proves he belongs in LF fulltime next year, along with Schafer getting a cup of coffee this year (with the thought of him taking over in 2009).

Add to that, if Chuck James turns the corner, JJJ is for real and Jo-Jo is ready to man a spot in the rotation, that would basically mean that our starting LF, CF, SS, 2B and 3 members of our 5 man rotation would hardly cost us anything next year. Added to Francouer and McCann will be signed to relatively “under market” contracts (assuming Francoeur goes the way of McCann and signs longterm - avoiding his arbitration years - more than likely a backloaded contract like McCann’s).

Leaving only Chipper, Hudson and Smoltz in the “higher paid” category.

I think I’m with you, that our chances are better than it appeared to be.

Which means that even if the Braves DON’T make the post-season this year, Wren has set the team up to be able to make some upgrades in the off-season.

Either way, Wren has done a fine job (if not a better job than JS did the last couple of years), in putting the club in a “position” to make a move going into the 2009 season.

We’ll see…..

By doug

February 8, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

I was reading Coaches post about signing Tex and it got me thinking. Didn’t Bobby Cox say this is going to be his last year? or did he retract that?

We aren’t hearing anything yet about a farewell tour or anything, but that was big news for a while last year wasn’t it?

By ajr_3

February 8, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

HaHa, you bet McFann, I try to keep it in the family. But did Wagner ever convert all saves opportunities in one season? I thought the closest he got was in 05 with philly - 38/41…but im out. Hope to see you guys tonight, along with Hoss.

By ajr_3

February 8, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

HaHa, you bet McFann, I try to keep it in the family. But did Wagner ever convert all saves opportunities in one season? I thought the closest he got was in 05 with philly - 38/41…but im out. Hope to see you guys tonight, along with Hoss.

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Paddy, I’ll respond to you now that you’ve embraced your Irish heritage.

Don’t have any Bravery music, but have seen them perform. They skew a bit young for me, but I can see where people would dig ‘em.

By Efrim

February 8, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Sorry to be negative. Baseball Prospectus just gave their spring training previews for the NL East. They gave the Braves a C- for their Winter Meetings/Offseason grade, here was their reasoning:

Trading away Renteria shows a faith in Yunel Escobar that is likely misplaced. However, the presence of Brent Lillibridge should save them. Losing Jones was inevitable, although the contract he signed may turn out to be a bargain. They have no center fielder, despite trading for two nominal ones over the winter.

Here is their advice on one move to make:

One move to make: Escobar is a utility infielder who happened to have a peak season for batting average. The Braves can’t get Renteria back, but they can minimize the damage by moving quickly past Escobar to Lillibrdge. The 24-year-old has good secondary skills and a plus glove at shortstop; rumors that he might be moved to center field persist, but those have more to do with the Braves’ fascination with Escobar than with Lillibridge’s skills.

And here is a little summary:

After the Braves went for broke last year in trading for Mark Teixeira, it would have been nice to see them sustain that mode into the offseason. Instead, they pared payroll and added only marginal talents, doing little to address the problems that kept them from staying with the Phillies and Mets down the stretch last season. A team with a lineup core of Kelly Johnson/Chipper Jones/Mark Teixeira/Jeff Francoeur/Brian McCann should be able to compete with anyone. That they’re trying to do it with holes at center field, shortstop, and in the bullpen is a shame.

I have heard many say that Escobar is no better than a Utility Infielder. It baffles me that people could say something like that. I have also heard many say Lillibridge is the long term Shortstop. I am not saying that isn’t a possibility, I have never seen the guy play at the major league level, very well could turn out to be better than Escobar. This guy was a little harsh on the Braves. I can’t say I agree with a lot of what he said.

By Mad Mike

February 8, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

Long time no post…anyhoo, any other local Atlanta talent I should be aware of? I’m loving the “indie” rock sound coming from the area these days. Thanks to the blog, I’ve found out about bands like The Whigs and Manchester Orchestra. (I’ve checked into The Black Lips and The Selmanaires too among other bands…I’m not sold on these guys…yet….) Keep throwing out the names DOB, this is my point of reference for finding quality new music. And I appreciate it. You Atlanta folk have all the fun, with your record stores and your baseball fields.

By Braves Fan

February 8, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Phew. I was getting worried there. I have all the albums in record and CD form, and have most songs memorized.

Got any particular one of those albums that you like the most?

By Mike Honcho

February 8, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I appreciate the help with Townes. Wish I could stop by the store, but I’m out in Dallas at law school by the way of Helen and the Sautee-Nacoochee valley of north Georgia.

I’ve tried to broaden my music horizons from the Jay Z, Tupac, Goodie Mob and Dre of my youth the last few years. I’ve gotten into Emmylou Harris, Teddy Thompson, Lucinda Williams, and the Frames. I enjoy music that is more folksy and brooding, but I just don’t know enough about music to find the hidden gems like Van Zandt. What would be the must have artists in a collection in your opinion, people like Van Zandt that aren’t as widely popular/well known as someone like Johnny Cash?

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

Made Mike, try the EP that just came out by Dead Confederate, another very good local band about to break big. It’s their first major-label release.

Black Lips are an acquired taste, I guess, but I love ‘em. Selmanaires, I just love that Talking Heads vibe they have. Cool guys, it seemed like when I saw their show a couple week ago. Great show.

Oh, and try Anna Kramer and the Lost Cause, another great local act about to take off. Like Selmanaires, she’s on hip Atlanta label International Hits.

By Lee in S. GA

February 8, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

Man, was Chrissie Hynde the bomb back then, or what? One of the great rock voices….

DOB - I am with you on that one man. Not only was her voice was good but for some reason I always liked her looks too even though she was not considered “diva” looks status by far.

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

That Baseball Prospectus analysis of Escobar left me with one question: Uh, do they know who Yunel Escobar is?

By Shamus Thacker

February 8, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

Anybody else here like Shawn Mullins?

I’ll say it again; If Mike Hampton throws one pitch this season, I’ll walk on my hands, drunk and nekkid, (yet polite and reserved), from Cedartown to Turner Field.

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

Abbey Road.

By ricky

February 8, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

How do you guys like this line up?

KJ Yunel Hoss Tex Francoeur/Mcann Mcann/Francoeur Diaz/ Platoon if Diaz can’t handle full load Kotsay

I like the idea of Yunel batting second since he resembles Edgar at the plate. KJ gets on base at a ridiculous clip. I like putting Kotsay in the 8 hole (maybe the 7th) so there isn’t too much pressure on him since he is coming back from couple of off years due to injury. Obviously Bobby likes to switch Frenchy and Mcann. Maybe this has already been discussed.

By Marty

February 8, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

In less than two and a half seasons in the minors, Escobar hit .295 with a .368 OBP. After slugging a paltry .346 in AA-ball in 2006, Yunel posted a respectable .456 (along with a .333 batting average) in his 46 games in AAA last season. He then went on to hit .326/.385/.451 in 94 games (319 AB) at the major-league level last season. He’s just 24 and, from what I’ve seen, shows outstanding plate discipline and good tools in the field.

What’s not to like? I guess it’s pretty clear that he doesn’t have a whole lot of power, but would about 50 doubles and 10 homers a year (about what he was on pace for over a full season based on his 319 AB last year) be so bad out of your shortstop? I think not, especially when he’s in a lineup with Chipper Jones, Mark Teixeira, Jeff Francoeur, Brian McCann, and Kelly Johnson, all of whom, obviously, have niec power.

I think they’re nuts.

By Peter Mariano

February 8, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

The guy who wrote that Baseball Prospectus article about Escobar should lose his job because he obvisouly knows nothing

By cricket

February 8, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

Folks, if you really want to understand why Anders, metsman, sniper etc. mets fans hang around here for so much time, just check out the metsblog.com blog. There’s just no comparison with thsi blog, so rich in pretty good discussions about interesting baseball related topics. Visiting that blog has really made me appreciate all our regular posters here. Every post on that blog about braves fans has to have the mandatory reference to “inbred southerners”. Man, I am glad to be a braves fan. I can’t imagine Anders coming up with his somewhat weird (but honest in his mind) points on that blog, he’ll immediately get killed there. The worse that can happen here is that he will face the famous Death by Stats if tangled with the esteemed ‘I’m always right and I can find stats to prove it’ Shaun (just busting ur chops dude, though I don’t really agree with you on many points but can’t fight with the cold hard stats)!!

By Carroll Rogers

February 8, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

I was out at Camp Roger this morning because I heard Mike Hampton was going to be there - which I’ll get to in a second - and I ran into Chipper. He was in great spirits and still kinda buzzing from his blogging experience. Think he had as much fun with it as you guys…

Hampton is here. Played catch today, supposed to throw off the mound tomorrow, which he’s done five times already this winter. He said the arm is good, the hamstring is pretty good. between the two, i’d say the hamstring might slow him down more heading into camp, but he’s expecting to be right there with everybody else. Just might not be running too many sprints. but ahem, if you’ve been to braves camp, you know there’s not a whole lot of hard running going on.

i’ve filed a story and it should be posted before too long.

By ncscoots

February 8, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Uh, do they know who Yunel Escobar is?

Yes, but the author must be married to Lillibridge’s sister, or using Keith Law’s Jordan Schaefer analysis for data.

Does the author think that the Braves’ brain trust has become so senile as to trade Edgar Renteria for a scrub? That’s harsh, even for BP.

By N8

February 8, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

Efrim

Interesting article.

Out of curiosity, any way to look back and see what “grade” they gave the Rockies heading into last year? LOL!

Because it seems to me, that our lineup is very similar to what they did with their lineup, by that, I mean they filled most of their everyday position players with guys that were their minor league pride and joy. Gave them the jobs and let them play.

Does anybody else realize that other than Tex, Kotsay (who very well might be replaced at some point in this season), and half of the LF platoon (Diaz), the players are ALL homegrown talent? And we gave up some of our BEST prospects to get both Kotsay and Tex.

So essentially our entire everyday roster was BUILT by using our farm system. Literally no free agents allowed. LOL!

That’s pretty amazing in today’s world and quite a testament to our farm.

How about the Mets, you say?

Catcher. Nope

1B….Nope.

2B….Nope.

LF….Nope.

CF….Nope.

RF….Nope.

WOW. The Mets are going into 2009 with Wright and Reyes as the ONLY guys they drafted and developed.

How many other teams can say that?

By Mad Mike

February 8, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB. Actually heard about Dead Confederate from you a while back…love “The Rat” and love the sound and will check out Anna Kramer and the Lost Cause. Maybe seeing The Lips and The Selmanaires live can make things different? How about any of these bands…anybody playing the south anytime soon (like this summer)? I’m in Valdosta so it’s feasible for me to catch a band in Atlanta, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, etc. on any given weekend….

By brnt247

February 8, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

I understand why they would dislike our fascination with Yunel, his minor league numbers weren’t very good. However, not always do your numbers in the minors evaluate how well you’ll do in the majors. Having Lillibridge behind him is perfect and I expect him to make the major league team.

BP hating on our bullpen though I don’t understand. We have two of the most solid relievers in the league in Moylan and Soriano. Ohman is amazing outside of Wrigley and we get a boost from Gonzales half way through the year. Acosta is a real solid pitcher with electric stuff and hopefully Boyer can turn the corner this year and give us a solid middle relief effort. We still have Yates who was solid for a good part of last year.

I don’t understand how they can dislike our bullpen, it’s probably better than the Mets and the Phillies, and in my opinion our lineup is better than both by a pretty good margin. KJ, Teix, and Chipper, and McCann should all be all-stars. Francoeur is due for a breakout year and we all know what to expect out of Diaz.

We didn’t make that many moves in the offseason but we addressed the one big need, starting pitching depth.

By Big Donnie

February 8, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

DOB, the new Drive-By Truckers album is a big steamy turd. They are one of those bands that have had their heyday, and unfortunately their best years and best efforts are far behind them.

Recommendation is Lucero’s “Rebels, Rogues, and Sworn Brothers” - buy it, and allow it to rock your face off.

By Mad Mike

February 8, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

By the way DOB, to whom do you compare Anna & Co.?

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

Honcho, in addition to those you already mentioned, you should try stuff by James McMurtry, Greg Brown, Robert Earl Keen, M. Ward, Gillian Welch, Steve Earle, and of course Neil Young … there’s so many more, but those are all extremely good, rootsy artists.

By N8

February 8, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

Let’s also not forget that IMO, (DOB has also mentioned this), Escobar is probably a better SS than Renteria is at this stage of his career.

Maybe not as consistent on the everyday routine play, but his range and arm FAR succeed that of Renteria’s from what I saw last year.

So whatever we “lose” offensively with Edgar gone, we’ll gain defensively, (along with Tex’s glove—work at 1B for a full season), which will only help our pitchers out.

The name of the game is outscoring the other team on a daily basis. I think to many of these “preview” magazine and website guys have gotten too giddy with the offensive numbers in the day and age of fantasy baseball, and ignored the defense.

I know times have changed, but in 1991 we won with pitching and defense, along with timely hitting. NOT by putting silver slugger award winners at every position.

I’m not saying that Escobar is the 2nd coming of Ozzie Smith, but the question needs to be asked….would the Baseball Prospectus be raggin on the Cardinals for playing Ozzie at SS everyday?

Silly to say the least.

By Desert Brave

February 8, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

Wow I just read that baseball prospectus article. Obviously this jackass has never seen Yunel play!

By timmythebrave

February 8, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Seattle got bedard for 5 prospects http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3237189

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Mad Mike, good question. She’s all over the place, a country ballad one minute, a garage-rock number the next. Got some of the great X sound in her band, which is really strong. She’s got a voice that reminds me a little of Neko Case and also Patsy Cline, but it’s not straight country whatsoever.

By D'Andre Williams

February 8, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

blabberinbraves.com

By Mad Mike

February 8, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

I’m cool with a little twang…as long as it’s not Shania twang. What’s this “great X sound” of which you speak?

By Hamburger James

February 8, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

I hope the Braves can beat up on the lesser teams (Nats, Pirates etc…) a little better this year. We always seem to do okay with the Mutts/Phils head-to-head. Play every game like it’s against NY.

WIN ONE MORE FOR BOBBY!

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

The Red Sox already have an injured starter before we even get to spring training. Which only underscores my belief that there will be at least a few teams desperate for a starter as we get into March games, and you can bet the Braves are going to get some interesting offers for one of their “surplus” starters. Not saying they’ll trade one by opening day, but it’s sure gotta be a possiblity.

First, though, I think they’ll have to see how healthy Hampton and Chuck are when exhibition games begin.

By Random

February 8, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

Shaun —

Have you seen Joe Posnanski’s approach to evaluating RBIs?

Working with runner on base data since 1959, he figured what was the league average of a batter driving a runner home from first base (5.3%), second base (17.1%) and third base (38.0%). Using these averages, he calculated the expected RBIs for a given player in a season based on the runners on base for his plate appearances, and compared the expected RBIs to the actual runs driven in (RBIs minus HRs).

Pretty interesting. Plus, he’s a pretty good writer.

By OrlandoFan

February 8, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

One thing that Escobar seems to share with Renteria — all other comparsions being valid — is that he is good in the clutch. He came up with big hits last year — as has Edgar in his years with the Braves and others — and has a sense for that. Chipper and Frenchy have shown that ability, too. That’s the key ingredient, to me, in decisive play. You’ve got to come through at the key moments. For all his greatness — and I think he was the best defensive centerfielder of all time — that was the failing of Andruw Jones. He was not a good hitter in the clutch or even semi-clutch. The guys who get the 2-out bop (and not necessariliy the homer) are the guys who win you championships. Escobar showed signs of that last year, and his continuing with that will be as important as his BA, OBP, Fielding Pct. or IQ, for that matter.

By Marty

February 8, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

DOB, how about that beer the first weekend in March?

By Longwood's Finest

February 8, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

So Yunel is only a utility player… Right. Pretty soon you’re going to be hearing about how Chuck Norris fears Yunel Escobar.

Sounds like good news out of camp regarding Hampton and Chuckie…

Just stop and think about this for a minute…. If we have those two healthy paired with Smoltz, Huddy and Glav, who has a more stable rotation in all of the NL? If they can’t go in the beginning then we have JJJ, JoJo and about 3 others who could take their turns for a month or so.

5 prospects for Bedard, huh? Seattle is looking like they want to contend this year

By David-ATL14

February 8, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Outstanding musical selections DOB.

Baseball Prospectus continues their fine tradition of being a 3rd rate magazine. Joe Sheehan in particular.

The Bonnaroo festival beside having the female Zep cover group will also have Robert Plant and Allison Krauss. That might be how the Zep chatter started.

Used to go to the festival in it’s earlier years, but alas I’ve gotten older and traffic has gotten worse.

Friend of mine Ashley Capps is the promoter and the big mover/shaker behind the festival.

Good to see him ascend to the big time status he’s achieved. I was friend with him 25 years ago when toiling in Knoxville at the same time as Mr Capps.

By uga-brave

February 8, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

i like escobar as much as the next guy, but for any of us to say he will hit this or have this many doubles is just pure speculation.

for the record, i think he will be a solid major leaguer, but he needs more mlb at bats before it is fair to draw any conclusions (good or bad)

anyone remember charles thaomas?

By SJS21

February 8, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

I HAVE HEARD THAT DAMAIN MOSS HAS BEEN THROWING VERY WELL AND THAT BOBBY COX AND ROGER MCDOWELL HAVE BEEN PLEASED.

By WarParty

February 8, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Random,

JoePos is a GREAT writer. Thanks for noticing. (From a displaced Chief’s fan).

I also think DOB has considerable cred for what he does.

By Anders

February 8, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

* Coach*

*In truth , until watching the Yankees exercise some financial restraint this past off-season , I would have believed that the Braves had no chance of signing Teixeira to a long term contract.

Now , I’m not so sure. I think the Braves have at least a fighting chance.*

Coach, How about the Red Sox? Manny Ramirez’s $20 mil comes off next year. As good a team guy as Youkilis is I’m sure they’d love to plug Tex in there full time and figure out what to do with Youkilis. Maybe move him to left? No way the Sox want to breakup that middle of the order monsters formula they’ve been printing money with the last 7 years or so.

Expect bidding to start at $20 mil+ per for Tex. Personally I think the Yanks will go all out for him too, no matter how cost conscious they appear this year. Giambi’s $22 mil per expires after this season.

Mets are a wild card too. Delgado’s deal expires along with some others. I know many on here will say not a chance but that’s what I heard about the Santana sweeptakes three months ago also. How’d that turn out?

By DAP

February 8, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

so THIS is why the other blog got deserted! i guess scrolled past the new blog announcement earlier!!!

DOB i agree on johnson, and ive been saying all winter he will compare to chase utley in a few years. i told a buddy of mine i predicted the biggest breakouts of the season to be kelly johnson.

By Marty

February 8, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

uga-brave - Yes, I remember Charles Thomas. He is a great guy whom I really wanted to see succeed, but who ultimately returned to playing how anyone would have expected based on the objective evidence available. Charles hit poorly in the minors for several years and then made it to the majors where he hit well for half a season. He was already tailing off badly by the end of his year here.

Escobar is somewhat different — although his numbers were mixed, he was quite a bit more effective as a hitter in the minors and did not tail off last season.

By Tino25Dynasty

February 8, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Hampton won’t pitch more than 3 or 4 games this season… He’s finished

James is a toss up as far as he will do this season…

By bravesfaninmassland

February 8, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

DOB Did you get a chance to check out Little Country Giants yet? You really should. Since they’re local they might even carry them there at Elle Guru (man I miss the record stores in the ATL, especially Criminal and Elle). The local stores here in Worcester, Mass tend to skew towards the dollar bin leftovers and the chain stores are predictably barren of anything all that interesting.

By justdoit

February 8, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

i hope brent lillibridge doesnt get blocked from being the braves shortstop of the future - in about the same amount of games played in the minors (Brent 170 Yuenl 177)Brent lillibridge hit 9 more hrs - 17 more RBIs - 4 pts higher avg - and 55 more stolen bases than Yuenl Escobar. it would be nice to have that speed on the braves and he has more power.

By ncscoots

February 8, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

that’s what I heard about the Santana sweeptakes three months ago also. How’d that turn out?

Congrats, Anders. Get one more right and you’ll be tied with a clock.

By Desert Brave

February 8, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

There is a pretty good article about the braves by Ken Rosenthal on MSN sports. In it he mentions that Yunel has better range and a better arm then Renteria.

By HuffBraves

February 8, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB-

Been reading your blog for almost three years now, but I’ve never posted. I’m a huge, lifelong Braves fan interning at an Orlando TV station for the next couple months. I think I’ll be able to get to cover Spring Training a bit- I was wondering if you have any advice about how to make the most of it? What the media has access to, when to go where, etc. Any help would be appreciated!

Thanks, and GO BRAVES!

By woogidy

February 8, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

DOB, …just outside Orlandopolis, where the only thing sunnier than dispositions of well-trained Disney employees is the sun itself. Seriously laughing out loud at this one. Very Funny. Anyways, sitting here in my Braves thermal top, and braves shorts, listening to some brand new Theory of a Deadman thinking about how very cool it was to blog with our 3rd baseman over the last couple of nights. It reminded me, What happened to that idea about T-shirts for the ‘ol blog?… I came up with this for the T-shirts; On the front we could do the usual, ajc.com/braves, and something like, I rock it to the Beat Blog with DOB, and on the back we could put #10 with the name U Kno Who like a baseball jersey. What do y’all think?

By Greg K.

February 8, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

Came across a Mets ‘08 preview. They have a Phils one too, but no Braves yet.

http://mlbfleecefactor.com/2008/02/08/the-2008-new-york-mets-redemption/

By DAP

February 8, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

copied from the last blog:

Coach Darren , I hate to bust your bubble. While Chipper is one of the best switch hitters on the game , he isn’t the best.

The Yankees had this fella by the name of Mantle. Hey , don’t take my word for it. Go check the numbers for yourself.

im gonna have to challenge you on this, mostly because it isnt that clear cut. mantle is better in some statistical categories, and in others, chipper is better.

chipper has played 14 seasons, mantle played 18. in four more seasons, it is extremely likely chipper will be ahead of mantle in hits, and rbis. chipper will have WAAAYY fewer stikeouts than mantle had, and he already has more doubles and a better slg%, and avg. chipper is 150 HR behind mantle right now, and i dont think he’ll hits that many in 4 years, but if he plays 6 more, he could do it.

its definitely reasonable to say chipper is the best switch hitter ever.

By uga-brave

February 8, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

marty,

i was not comparing charles thomas to escobar, i was merely saying that 300 ab’s are not enough to really get a read on a player.

the real definig moment for escobar will be when mlb scouts find a weakness in his approach and how he adjusts to being pitched different.

i personally love his approach, quick bat and he hits the ball hard all over the field.

he may not be a base stealer but has real good instincts on the basepaths. anyone remember that play in the ninth inning against the d’backs?

By TennesseePaul

February 8, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

Read the prospectus evaluation. The harshness was a bit much. I think Yunel and Kotsay will provide more than they offer. But I gotta say I agree with this line: After the Braves went for broke last year in trading for Mark Teixeira, it would have been nice to see them sustain that mode into the offseason.
Not that I wanted the team to go for broke, but an ambitious push for a young MLB proven front line starter would have been nice.

Anywho, the closer the season gets the more jazzed I am. Just gotta hope for health more this year than in any previous season. Lots of question marks…

By TennesseePaul

February 8, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

uga-brave: Yunel pulled that shoe string act several times last season. I hadn’t seen such alert baserunning in a long time. I’d much rather have a high OBP with great and alert base running skills than a casual OBP guy with high stolen base totals. Yunel will be an asset if he can handle the whole season at the pros.
Gotta remember even Francoeur came up on fire and then stepped back the next season… I think Yunel will do better though. He has better plate discipline than Franoeur.

By richbrave

February 8, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

TP:

Can’t ever have enough pitching, right Paul? Agree, agree,agree.

By Jared Wolfhope

February 8, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

I do remember him getting like 2 chances for DPs in spring training.

And the speculation he had worked himself so long to get to opening day 2007 which took its toll was true.

By Marty

February 8, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

uga-brave - I definitely remember the 9th inning “steal” against Arizona, and I think that’s indicative of the type of energy and aggressiveness that a guy like Escobar brings to the team. I agree that it’s too early to pencil him in as a star, but I do hope (and expect) that he’ll be a good one.

By McFann

February 8, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

That’s cool, Woogidy.

Hey, those Disney employees are great!! Got a lot of great memories from Disney World. Unfortunately none of them include a Spring Training game, but I’m thankful for the times we’ve spent there.

Uh, Ricky, you forgot a “C” in all your “McCanns”.

8 )

By CC

February 8, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

DOB- My apologies if you’ve mentioned this before and I missed it… but I’ve seen on other sites that the Braves are perhaps interested in Kris Benson and Matt Bush. I value your insight much more than those other sources, soooo… any truth to this?

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

February 8, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

DAP , you obviously didn’t check the career numbers of Mantle , Rose and Eddie Murray.

I’m more than satisfied that Chipper is one of the top five switch hitters in history.

Here are some rather accurate rankings:

http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/pikecracker/79624

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

That’s actually a pretty good and very original idea, Woogidy. I like it.

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

I’ll third that on Posnanski — outstanding writer.

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

Mad Mike, I’m talking about X, the seminal L.A. punk band with the unique country-influenced sound, the band that spawned the great John Doe.

By Richard

February 8, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

Gawd I can’t wait for baseball season to start expecially spring training! Kelly Johnson did an amazing job last year. I had him on my fantasy team and he did a real good job for me. He has a lot of great possiblities and I’m exicted to see what he will be able to do in a full time position now that yunel is going to be starting SS. Can’t wait to see these guys during spring training! Go Bravos!!!

By McFann

February 8, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

Carroll, if you’re still here—

I still can’t believe it about Chipper!! (I mean, I know it was him, but I can’t believe that really happened.) He may not have addressed me formally, but…but…he…he used my word…TWICE!! And DOB said he was on the radio this morning talking about being here…that’s the closest I’ve been to a radio discussion since I called into the Laura Ingraham show!!

Guess I’ve found my # 2 favorite Brave. : )

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

CC, Braves person told me no interest in Benson, never was interest despite speculation otherwise.

Matt Bush? You talking about the former No. 1 pick of the Padres, who was a bust as a shortstop and was converted to pitcher last season? I know he throws hard, but isn’t he hurt and out for the ‘08 season? I think he had an arm injury of some kind.

By Wayne in Utah (Braves fan since '66)

February 8, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

I saw Chipper play a minor league game late in the 1992 season at Greenville with my two oldest sons. After the game was over, my boys (5 and 8 at the time) took their gloves over and were hoping for an autograph. Well, Chipper and a couple of the other players went way out of their way to go around this group of 5-10 kids on their way to the clubhouse after the game was over.

Fortunately for us, Mike Kelly did come over to the edge of the stands and signed for all of the kids that were there. It took him about 4-5 minutes.

So, for a while, I was not a big “Hoss” fan in his early years. But since that time, I have come to forgive him, as we all are prone to do dumb things when we are young.

So, if “Hoss” comes back on again tonight, buddy, after coming on the blog and being a real person for the denizens, all is forgiven!

:-)

PS: My kids were too young to remember, and when Kelly came over to sign their gloves, they hadn’t read the same scouting reports that I had read, so they didn’t know Larry Wayne (great name, BTW) from Adam! They were just thrilled to be at the park, and to have a baseball player come over and chat with them and sign their gloves that night.

Too bad Mike Kelly didn’t become an all-star like you did Chipper!

Have a great season, and watch out for those phantom third basemen!!!

By Wayne in Utah (Braves fan since '66)

February 8, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

Coach Gotta put my dibs in for Chili Davis above Tim Raines. Otherwise, I like your list.

By Paddy McGillicutty

February 8, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

I think Yunel Escobar is the type of guy this team needs in the clubhouse— more of those fiery types, like Smoltz, and Francoeur also. U Kno Who even showed more spunk than in the past by bowing up to Smoltize mid-season. I think that kind of spirit is contageous in a good way and raises everyone’s game. We see that happening more in Philly w/ Jimmy Rollins and **Chase Utley and those guys and we see where that got them last year. Out with the old ho hum, “ultra-professional”, “show no emotion” style of play and let’s see some fist pumping and high fives and stuff on the field.

Anyone else agree the Clubhouse Catalog should run a special on U Kno Who #10 jerseys? Bet those would sell like hotcakes right about now.

By Wayne in Utah (Braves fan since '66)

February 8, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

Hey McFann. Glad you got a chance to get close to the “Hoss”!

I was once on the same plane with Frank Robinson heading to Ft Lauderdale (he was in first class, I was in coach). I got up the nerve on the way to baggage claim to say hello to him. He was one grouchy SOB!

Also got to talk to Matt Williams on a radio sports talk show during his rookie year. That was fun also.

By Gator

February 8, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, Heard anything about the Braves’ interest in Matt Bush from the Padres? Couple sites are talking about it. He was the ‘04 1st overall.

By CC

February 8, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

DOB- yes, that very same Matt Bush. It was mentioned on the San Diego newspaper’s website- i’m assuming it was their Padres beat writer. And yes, he had reconstructive elbow surgery. Hey, I’m not saying I believe it, but definitely saw it online!

By chuckw/deadjournalist

February 8, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

this goes back to a post earlier:

DOB: “Bravesman, I think Chipper made a good point when he mentioned that possibility about Hampton, as a means to help him build arm strength and since the Braves have other options for the rotation. But if he’s healthy, can’t see him staying there all year. Imagine that: a $15 million non-closing reliever.

But yes, I could see him getting some worth there early. Don’t know the likelihood.”

since i’m the only one to toot my own horn, i mentioned that option on the blog yesterday afternoon before mr. jones did. not that i’m the first or anything.

jumping back to music:

i’ll long been a fan of canadian singer-songwriter hayden. he’s got a new disc out. he first came out in 1995 and is still putting out good music.

i’d also make a recommendation to a country singer-songwriter that is often overlooked: tom t. hall. he is as good as anyone at turning a phrase. he just put out a bluegrass album.

it’s funny how bluegrass has become the refuge for former country superstars that are cast aside by nashville row.

By Wayne in Utah (Braves fan since '66)

February 8, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

Favorite Atlanta Braves moment(s) of 2007 were of Escobar stealing second with the pitchers back turned to him on the mound! Take that!!

By the middle of May, we will have forgotten about Edgar Rent-a-ss.

By Bryan from Kansas (Go KU)

February 8, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

Hey David, I must have missed something, Are the Braves in talks with Mark Texiera?

By Wayne in Utah (former heavy steroid user)

February 8, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this

Bulked up to 6’1” and 245 lbs in 1996 while on the juice, but my homer totals did not increase. Stayed at zero for the year!

By richbrave

February 8, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this

CC:

Why are you posting here instead of your own blog Chop Chick?

By Wayne in Utah (former heavy steroid user)

February 8, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

NBA News Flash:

Utah Jazz are on a 10 game winning streak!!!

Phoenix Suns just picked up “Brick” O’Neal for the playoff run,

and Isiah Thomas STILL has a job.

By Johnson?

February 8, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

Why does James have KJ so LOW? I mean he hovered around a .900 OPS - which rates in the top 30 of all MLB* - all year until a September swoon when he was apparently out of gas. Now that he has a full season under his belt (and a bedroom with curtains all year), I expect him to be considered the best offensive 2B in MLB…yes, including Utley.

By McFann

February 8, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this

Hey, that’s cool, Wayne! My family and I met Glenn Hubbard at Lowes in Dec. 2004. (The funny thing is that I had no idea who Glenn Hubbard was and had to ask my mother a few times.) He was real nice, too! After we had gone about our shopping and were at the checkout, he walked by and said good-bye to us!

Chipper was great. I liked reading his responses. Sorry you missed him, Wayne. (Didn’t like what ya said about Edgar at 6:22, though, but no hard feelings, I suppose. : s )

By Wayne in Utah (former heavy steroid user)

February 8, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

McFann Hey, I didn’t mean any disrespect towards Rent-A-SS. I loved the guy. Got us past Raffy, and into Yunel. Just was saying that I think that Escobar’s play will make us forget all about how good Renteria was. Edgar was (and still is) 100% class act.

Me calling Renteria “Rent-a-SS” is like calling McCann “Baby Huey”. All terms of endearment for sure. And btw, Renteria was meant to be a bridge to Escobar or Andrus anyway. So, “Rent-a-SS” is very appropriate. Just like Baby Huey McCann because of his incredible youthful looks.

Still trying to think up something appropriate for Lillibridge. He looks like he is about 12-13 years old from a distance.

By Wayne in Utah

February 8, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this

DOB Got any old Pure Prairie League at that record store?

By Justin E.

February 8, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

Anyone think Chip is going to be around this evening?

By Efrim

February 8, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

Glad to see people feel the same way I do about that Baseball Prospectus article. What a joke. The ball jumps off his bat and he knows how to work the count. Good baseball player. 290/350/420. What is not to like?

By macon county line

February 8, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

Hi DOB, great story on KJ. Haven’t had time to post in a while or read the numerous posts since you got “hoss” online so if this has been covered forgive me; how do you compare KJ to Edgar as a #2 hitter? You made me aware of how good Edgar was at #2 about this time last year, and it seems like deja vu all over again. How about some Jerry Jeff lyrics for us old guys?

By Wayne in Utah

February 8, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

Efrim sometimes I think those guys write without really watching a player….at least it appears so in Escobar’s case.

As to Chipper’s question last night. I think Hampton might start the season off slowly too. I like Jurrjens for the rotation. Chuckie if his shoulder is sufficiently healed, and JoJo if not.

Smoltz/Hudson/Glavine/Jurrjens/James or Reyes. Hampton coming out of the pen with Bennett in longer relief. Soriano, Moylan, Acosta, Yates, Ohman, and Boyer. MINUS one of those guys. Which one will be dependent on health issues and need.

Bold prediction: Micah Owings will give his little brother Jon Mark some batting tips, and he will emerge on the outfield prospect radar screen this summer. I have heard he has a big league outfield arm.

By McFann

February 8, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

OK, Wayne, OK. I getcha, now!! Rent-a-ShortStop. Just got the wrong impression there, sorry. : )

(BTW, I still don’t understand the “Huey” part of McCann’s nickname. 8 ) )

By wondering

February 8, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

why is the lexus level being renamed to the ‘golden moon casino’ level?

By uga-brave

February 8, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

wayne,

how in the heck is it going? looks like your beloved jazz are playing well.

as long as yunel makes the routine plays and turns the DP with kelly we should be fine.

on paper this should be our best team in 4 years. health and soriano are the keys.

soriano HAS TO BE GOOD. if he is everything else in the pen should fall into place.

By Wayne in Utah

February 8, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

McFann Baby Huey is a big, affable cartoon duck. (a tad bit overweight, which is where I started the McCann nickname, as he is a tad bit overweight).

Google Baby Huey and check it out.

uga I’ve been OK. Had some extended work trips, and a screwed up back, but I think I will live. I haven’t chimed in much lately, as I usually read the posts on the run lately.

The Jazz are really rockin, after a rough December. Might be one of the elite in the league right now. D-Will getting snubbed for the all-star game has put the dude on a mission to show the league what a real point guard does for his team.

I really like the Braves for this year. Your statement about health is probably valid any year, but if we can dodge the injury bug, and if everybody just does what is expected, I think we could do some damage in October. All depends on health though.

Will Juice Lopez get it done this spring??? It would be nice to see him end his career on a positive over the next couple of years.

Later….

By William

February 8, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry but I have an off the subject question. Does anyone know if the Braves practices at Spring Training are open to the public?????

By McFann

February 8, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

OH!! Yeah, Wayne!! I know! You mean like Huey, Duey, and Lewy!! (Heh heh, sorry. I meant “Louie”, er…however it’s really spelled.) Yeah, gotcha, man. OK, ‘s cool.

By nOLIE

February 8, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

I’m trying to get into Townes Van Zandt after watching a documentary about him with my dad. But I literally have no idea what album I should start with. Got a suggestion?Mike Honcho

Charly had a 20 or so song collection called Anthology 1968-1979. Has much of his early stuff including Tecumseh Valley and Pancho & Lefty which are my two favorites. Prolly available on Half.com or Ebay if not still in stores.

By McFann

February 8, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

BTW, Wayne—I like that word “affable”. Good adjective for McCann.

By uga-brave

February 8, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

for arguments sake,

i pose a question. what if glavine lays a total egg? i am not talking about how that would effect the braves but rather how it would effect his lecacy with the braves and the fans.

there are many fans that have not forgiven glavine for leaving, for the moment they are now appeased because he is wearing the tomahawk.

as for me i never understood booing the guy everytime he was in atlanta. maybe the first time but after that it was well, kind of bush.

i always was one of the few to applaud him when he came to the plate. by no means did i want see him succeed but hey you gotta respect what he did for this franchise. smoltz, maddux, glavine, as good as it gets both on and off the field.

so here is the question, if he goes totally into the tank do you think the fans will boo the heck out of him?

i always thought it was a bit of a risk for glav to come back here after the way the fans treated him when he was with the muts.

no matter what many of us would always hold glav in high regard no matter where he pitched, but if he comes back and stinks the joint up it could get real uncomfortable at the TED.

i dont think many of us here on the blog would boo him, but i got a hunch that we would be in the minority.

so anywhoo where do you guy fall?

By TommyP

February 8, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

Take a break from the blog and Chipper shows up. Made for a really good read. Can only rehash the same things on here so many times but that was some fresh stuff.

I don’t think there’s any doubt the rotation should be:

Hudson Smoltz Glavine (not sure the “righty-lefty” thing works when talking about Glavine) Jurrjens James Bennett as the swingman. (serving as the “Sammy Stewart” of the staff…there’s a name from the past)

Save Hampton for when he’s absolutely ready and have JoJo waiting in the wings. I actually think the kid makes his mark this year despite not breaking camp in the rotation.

Found it hard to believe that Baseball Prospectus actually said that about Yunel. Stunning analysis from their part.

Chipper’s come a long way with public relations. A LONG way.

And with a nickname like “Chipper”, why give him another nickname?

By Lee in S. GA

February 8, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah -

Always pull for the Jazz. Even in their original days in New Orleans.

Escobar will help this team more than Rent-a-ss. Edgar was a good player for Atlanta but was not going to be a future fixture of the Braves organization. The offense will be fine for 2008 and beyond.

This team does need to be a little concern about obtaining a younger # 1 or 2 tyep starter for the 2009 season.

By Choppinmama

February 8, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this

*Johnson believes he’ll improve defensively now that he’s comfortable at second.

“I was scared out of my mind last year,” he said. “I heard guys saying ‘Oh, Kelly can be the second baseman.’ But in my mind I’m thinking, ‘I’ve never played second base before.’ It was like a tryout. And then I didn’t get any action the first couple weeks in games, like, one ball hit to me.

“I was like, ‘Oh [sh—], oh [sh—]. It was ridiculous.’ This year I should be more at ease, a little more free up in the head. I’m ready to go.”*

Gotta give the kid props for playing so well last season at this unfamiliar position. Now, with some experience under his belt and tutelage from Hubbard, KJ and Escobar should provide outstanding defense up the middle. Add ol’ Hoss at the hot corner and solid D from Tex at first, and we shouldn’t see much get though the infield.

And the best way to re-sign Texiera is to work on Mrs. Tex. Influence with a capital I on her part.

By Lee in S. GA

February 8, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

I never blamed Glavine for leaving to go to the Mets. I do remember the guy actually winning the biggest game in Braves history. The people that booed Glavine would be the same ones giving Jose Reyes a standing ovation if he happened to be traded to Atlanta.

By JasonInMaine

February 8, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

Take a few days off from reading the ol’ blog and miss a chance to converse with one of my all time favorites. That’s what I get for not reading DOB’s blog I guess…

I am at the Dark Star now and am hoping to see a few workouts at the Sports Complex before heading back to Snow territory.

By Wayne in Utah

February 8, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

Brian McCann definitely seems to be the affable sort, at least from what I can tell.

Gotta run. The Jazz game comes on soon!

If “Hoss” logs on later, sorry I missed you and thanks for the interaction!

By Justin E.

February 8, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this

Hey Chip, If you show up tonight I would like to ask your opinion on the Skip Carey/TBS snub. Do you talk to him? Any reaction? I would also like to ask what happens to all of the broken bats, used batting gloves, ect. Do the bat boys get ahold of that stuff first? I know its just trash to you, but treasure to us dorks. I have what I believe to be one of your rookie year caps. It was given to me by my mother in law who got it from a former groundskeeper. Its a New Era Major League Pro Model, size 7 1/8. It has number 16 in black marker on the bill. I cant get my fat head in it. The greenskeeper gave it to my mother in law at the end of your rookie season and told her that you would be someone some day. She was right. Any way you can help me authenticate the hat? Palabra a su madre! We appreciate your time! It means alot.

By brian

February 8, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

woogidy -

great ideas - we need to get DOB to do this -

I love the idea of U Know Who getting on there as well

we need to get the Braves to sign off on getting the Braves symbol - the A or the Tomahawk on the T-shirt as well

Get the T-shirts going, but it is going to have to be by DOB or a DOB endorsed T-shirt. Maybe if enough of us pledge orders maybe we can get DOB to get the ball rolling

By McFann

February 8, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

Yeah, McCann does seem affable to me, too.

Chipper, if you show up tonight, thanks for interacting and for scaring the Met fans away!!

By Shamus Thacker

February 8, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

If summa you star-struck dorks would drop the love and stick to baseball, Chipper would be much more likely to return.

By Lew

February 8, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Lewey?

By PostseasonBlues

February 8, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

That was nice having Red Chipper stop. Better he be here than picking hens at Hooters. Red as the ace of hearts.

By Winnie the Pooh-bah

February 8, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this

That Taylor Swift is one fine looking country singer.

By BravesFan

February 8, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

i think kelly will be the next chipper

By brian

February 8, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

If U Know Who returns - I was wondering what it was like to face Glavine and Maddux. I assume it was much more fun being in the field when they are pitching than being in the batters box.

One more question if U know who returns - what are some of the best baseball drills or training aids for a 6 year old obsessed with baseball.

Go Braves

By bravesfan79

February 8, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

Getting Mike Hampton and letting Glavine go was the worst mistake Scherultz ever made! Forget the fact that because of his $ made hes made the Braves have one of the worst benches in baseball (1st half of last year was EMBARASSING how badly the bench was put together, who can forget all the games started by orr and woodcrap last year). And like i said all along, you put Escobar on the roster after spring training (instead of WASTING 15 or so games trying to get clutch hits with the likes of woodcrap, orr, and wilson) and the Braves are in the playoffs! this year i think the kid there missing out by not giving a chance to is that young CF.

But back to Hampton, even when healthy he is NOT a big game pitcher. Anyone else remember the worst decision by Cox ever to start Hampton in game 5 against the Astros instead of giving Smoltz the start out of the bullpen!?? I called it… i KNEW the night before the game it would be over by the 5th inning…and i was right… sadly.

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

Wayne, I just got back from the Hawks-Cavs game, which Cleveland ended up winning after the Hawks had erased a 10-point second-half deficit.

Lebron’s a beast. Josh Smith had a vicious dunk and a couple of nasty blocks.

Wouldn’t you know it, my boy Drew Gooden’s hurt and didn’t suit up. Happens every time I go to see one of the former Jayhawks play.

So Chipper didn’t stop by tonight? Not surprising. Hey, you wouldn’t want overload. Judging from his comments on the radio this morning, I think you can count on him returning and chatting with you folks soon.

By Wayne in Utah

February 8, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

bravesfan79: you are so smart, why then aren’t you the GM??

It’s very easy to second guess from the comfort of your living room.

I guess anything else JS might have done was overshadowed by last year, huh….

jeez

By David O'Brien

February 8, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

Chuck, sorry that I had overlooked your Hampton/pen suggestion. You’re right — you said it before Hoss did last night.

Also, great call on Tom T. Hall, the criminally overlooked songwriter. Love the tribute album of his songs a few years back, “The Tom T. Hall Project.” Greatness.

By Wayne in Utah

February 8, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

DOB Lebron is definitely a beast! If his supporting staff gets a tad bit better, he could pile up a few championships.

After the Jazz picked up Kyle Korver from the Sixers, it has changed the way folks have had to play them, and opened up the floor.

They are losing tonight in the second quarter, but they are keeping it close. When New Orleans came out here earlier this week, Deron Williams took Chris Paul to “point guard” school. CP is very good, but D-Will should have been on the all-star team.

BTW, did I say I have a strong dislike for Ron Artest. I would like to see Matt Harpring give him a couple of hard fouls tonight.

:-)

By Hunk Erdown

February 8, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

uga-brave-

I’m no expert, but from a long time fan’s perspective, I think the odds of Glavine ever totaly laying an egg are very low. His style of pitching is what has kept him so competitive for so long. Changing speeds without having tremendous speed, obsessive control and not giving in to anybody in any situation, and his mental preparedness make him someone that I think could still win 12-15 at age 50 if he wanted to. As long as the umpires give him the outer edges of the plate, he’s gonna be tough. If the offense can give him 4-6 runs per game he’ll be a tremendous asset. Seems like in years past, if Glavine is having an off night, you’ll know it within the first 2 innings, but if he can get through 2 innings with less than a few runs, he’s good through the middle innings at least. Just my opinion.

By woogidy

February 8, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

brian, obviously I am in. How much and where do I send the $$$$.

By The Goche (A.J.)

February 8, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

(This is the A.J. that has occasionally posted in the past, I just went to a different name because I saw another A.J. posted yesterday and what he said was so asinine I needed to separate myself from it. I believe the post was about Hampton “What’s with him? Can anyone seriously get paid that much to ride the pine?” That’s majorly low class stuff. Let it be known the original A.J. is Pro-Hampton.)

But I don’t know hardly anything about the guy, and maybe it’s my spring is coming eternal baseball optomism, but I think if we can get him cheap it would be fun to take a shot at a guy like Matt Bush.

Normally I’d say with a guy like that that he probably would cost too much because of his past grandeur. But now with the injury he could be a nice potential for a low cost.

I’m of the take a risk when you think it could turn up some special thing, and the guy is only six months older than me and I’m just a college senior. He’s ONLY 21. This is not some 27 year old flame out.

Admittedly, I know very little about him, but he sounds interesting, at least worth looking at.

By woogidy

February 8, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this

Maybe U kno Who could get us some T-shirts… since they are gonna have his name and number on them :-)

By GermanBravesFan

February 8, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this

Darn… I missed both nights when Chipper was on here!! I really enjoyed reading his posts and comments to some of us here. Too bad Robert wasn’t on - perhaps Chipper could have set him straight on Bobby Cox!!

By uga-brave

February 8, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

BRAVES 79,

dude get your facts straight, jaret wright started that game.

roy oswalt started for the stros and beltran murdered us. andruw did hit a big dinger to make it interesting for a while.

i was there, same as game 5 vs. the giants and game 5 vs. the cubs.

hard to believe that since the ted has opened, we have watched san diego, fla, arizona, st louis, san fran, chicago and houston celebrate clinches on our field. heck that almost half of the N.L.

By Curt

February 8, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

DOB

I was reading an article on espn.com about some of the cool spring training parks and there features, I was wondering which parks were your favs and why?

By Darren

February 8, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

N8 - Sorry about your monitor. LOL. It’s a true story though and the only time I have been told I look like Chipper in my life.

DAP - You bring up some good points about Mickey Mantle. But hey, I am sticking by what I said. It is just my opinion. That is the beautiful thing about baseball, nothing is cut and dry except the World Series Champ every year. I’ll look at the stats more closely when I have a chance. I know they both played in eras where the ball flew out of the park. Chipper stats are superior in most categories with the exception of dingers, and don’t count him out in that category!

By uga-brave

February 8, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

HUNKE Rdown,

agree with just about everything you said, i think he will be very servicable.

however, that was not my point.

what if he stinks the joint up, do you think the fans will boo him?

or will they give him a pass?

By uga-brave

February 8, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

woogidy,

GUARANTEE you could get mizzuno on board for that. they would do the t-shirts for nothing as long as their logo and #10 is on the back.

By Wayne in Utah

February 8, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this

uga I think the fans will give him a pass. I am one who doesn’t necessarily appreciate that he left when he really didn’t have to (how many more millions does a guy really need, versus some real loyalty). So, he is not one of my favorites, until he is pitching for us. Then he is my favorite player. It’s not like he is a bad guy, he is not. He just doesn’t display the loyal that some other guys have.

So, if he stinks it up, I will give him a pass because he is a Brave again.

By inletgrl

February 8, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this

DOB New, from coastal SC; love the site! Looking for more info on Peachtree TV: Are the games scheduled for broadcast on PTV available to areas other than Atlanta? Will those games be shown on SportsSouth also?

By Hunk Erdown

February 8, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this

UGA-BRAVE

I think it would take a pretty low-down “fan” to boo Glavine after he comes home to finish up his career for any reason. He may stink up a game or two every now and then, but my point is that I beleive he will never stink it up so bad over a season that he would win less than 12-15 games. I think Chipper and the boys will cover him up with run support so that any flaws in Glavine’s game won’t look so bad.

Its possible that there could be a few mis-guided morons that would boo him for some reason but I’ll never be one of them. He has been an exemplary example of class his whole carreer, imo. I don’t blame him at all for going to the Mets and I appreciate the way he has handled the whole thing in coming back home. He’s the kind of man I want my kids to look to as a role model.

By Hunk Erdown

February 8, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this

As I typed that last post Chuck Dowdle was telling about Glavine having a charity auction that raised over 500K for some children’s organ doner organization tonight.

By Steve McP

February 8, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this

I am sure that we will see many people purporting to be Braves on the site now that this has been such a big thing.

DOB - Any chance that you can get AJC to allocate the players with sign ins (they choose their names) that show up in a different format (red perhaps or bold?) so that we would know that they were genuine “celebrities” rather than cheap shots? It would be fun guessing who was who and we would get to blog with the people that get talked about so much on here.

By uga-brave

February 8, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this

wayne,

i gave him a pass when he left, but i think the mob is fickle.

like i said this is for arguments sake, glav is a brave and most of the fans that attend the game cheer for the uniform.

all i am saying if glav goes 3-7 in his first 13 or 14 starts what happens?

By uga-brave

February 8, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

HUNKER Ddown,

you and i agree, but 56,000 fans booed him every time he came here with the mets.

like i said i would never ever boo him i want to know what the average friday night fan would do.

By uga-brave

February 8, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this

HUNKER Down

i assume you are a dawgs fan, so what you got lauren?

By uga-brave

February 8, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

meant loran as in smith. well into the second bottle of pinot.

By DAP

February 9, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this

Coach i think you really like the “you obviously didnt…” phrase, because you use that alot in your condescending posts to other people.

you said: DAP , you obviously didn’t check the career numbers of Mantle , Rose and Eddie Murray.

why is that obvious? because i disagree with you? well let me tell you, that i compared stats from chipper, murray, and mantle before my last post so you are obviously wrong. you obviously didnt read my post or you would have seen the stats i compared.

you insinuated in your previous post that mantle was the best switch hitter ever, telling the blogger that you were responding to that he must have never heard of him.

i think chipper is better than mantle was. my evidence is this: mantle played 18 years, chipper has played 14 so far. with 4 more seasons of modest production from chipper (im thinking modest production would be 130 hits, 25 hr, 90 rbi, with career averages staying put) chipper would have more hits than mantle, more rbi, and a better lifetime batting average. he also will never strike out as many times as mantle did.

as far as pete rose goes, please! chipper is way better than him. rose has a lifetime .784 OPS. chipper has almost as many rbi in 14 seasons as rose did in 24 seasons. and rose has twice as many hits in twice as many at bats, so thats not overly impressive.

eddie murray was a heck of a run producer. chippers got him beat in BA and OPS, and if chipper plays as long as murray (21 seasons) with modest production, hed surpass him in rbi and HR, and probably hits.

so coach, obviously ive studied these guys and come to the conclusion that saying chipper is the best switch hitter ever is not a fact, but its a very valid opinion, even if you have heard of mantle. stop acting like youre the only person here that knows his stuff.

i think when all is said and done, chipper will have over 3000 hits, over 500 HR and AT LEAST 1800 RBIs. he will be hall of fame on his first ballot.

By Hunk Erdown

February 9, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this

Well Larry, I don’t know about Humphrey, but hell I can can blow a .03 after washing my mouth out with listerene.

By Mark Teshara (formerly Wayne in Utah)

February 9, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

Hi Braves fans, I am Mark Teshara. I want to come on here and chat with all you Braves fans…..

Come on now, don’t you believe me? Hey, I hit lots of homers last year. Also, I was a Tech guy.

Let’s talk some b-ball. Whadddya say??

:-)

By Mark Teshara (formerly Wayne in Utah)

February 9, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

Can I get a really cool nickname like my buddy Hoss?? Let’s call me “Little Joe” how ‘bout it??

Mark “Little Joe” Teshara

Gotta nice ring to it.

(Jazz are leading near the end of the 3rd, in case anyone cares besides me!)

By Tonya

February 9, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

ugabrave, what kind of pinot you drinking tonight?

By Hunk Erdown

February 9, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this

UGA-Brave

Looks like we got some good impact players recruited but i predict that the highest impact we’ll see right off the bat will be Akeem Hebron after his little stint in Military School. Word from my sources is that the military program and the lessons learned has had a huge impact on his mindset and he will be an absolute beast on defense.

By AdirondackDave

February 9, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this

DAP — Nice going. I’m glad to see you give it right back to Coach on Chipper and the other switch-hitters. Couldn’t agree more, when Chipper’s career is over he’ll be a first ballot HOFer and the best switch-hitter ever. Coach just wore me down with his attitude.

By uga-brave

February 9, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this

chrisklob,

you were defintely right it was a compliment.

i always liked your posts. you have gone over, no problem. pretty much never had a problem with any of those guys over there except for about two of them.

loved the paladin, always funny. there is one particular individual that speaks in the third person that thinks that he might just be a little smarter then the rest of us morons.

my advice to him is dont always ridicule people that make spelling mistakes, it is BOORISH.

By Hunk Erdown

February 9, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this

I don’t have any Pinot tonight but i have a glass of Crown Royal on the rocks (Canada’s only real contribution to World peace), and a Macanudo Portifino… Life is grand.

By uga-brave

February 9, 2008 12:34 AM | Link to this

HUNKER,

tell dennis felton to get rid of that punk. i graduated in 1990 we never had much of a basketball team except for the late ALEC KESSLER, knew him and he and his brother were and are great guys.

now the program is saddled by a bunch of pure idiots.

By Tonya

February 9, 2008 12:34 AM | Link to this

uga, thanks for the compliment.

Remind me sometime to tell you the story about “Tonya” and exactly why I knew that what you were talking about.

I’m sure I’ll be around a little more frequently before long. Too many Mets trolls. Even Metro Man has changed from being a respectful blogger to an idiot.

By uga-brave

February 9, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

tonya,

a nice bottle of MARK WEST. hope you come back some time soon.

By Wayne in Utah

February 9, 2008 12:40 AM | Link to this

Jazz win streak will end at 10 in a row tonight. It must be time for bed.

By bravesfan79

February 9, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this

UGA Brave…unless Wright pitched half a inning and then they brought in Hampton i know what im talking about! We played Houston 2 years in a row remember??
I remember Bobby Cox going with Hampton the night before because it was his turn in the rotation, and Bobby shure as hell wasnt gonna pull a Jim Leyland (whos a GREAT postseason manager) and do something unexpected yet needed… like start Smoltz out of the bullpen!! I remember being disgusted as by the time that smoltz got in the game in the 5th or 6th to stop the bleeding..the game was over…one of my sickest moments ever as a sports fan…that and Dominique being traded…

By uga-brave

February 9, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this

HUNKER,

i definetly agree with you about heebron. he will be a impact linebacker.

who would of thought that curran would and will continue to be a stud. reminds me of #47 not highly recruited but he is a FOOTBALL player. # 35 is going to be a stud.

By Hunk Erdown

February 9, 2008 1:08 AM | Link to this

uga

A lot of guys like Curran got some good playing time to show their stuff last year, i watched a lot of video of Curran on Scout before he came on board; even as good as he was in High School, you’re right, no one could have thought he would come out like he did last year… never seen a team with as much depth and talent as our defense. The whole country is going to be shocked at our ability to shut teams down in the next several years. I have never been more hopeful and excited to be a dawg fan. Funny thing is… the weakest link on the team is the highest rated player we have… Stafford, and I’m not saying he is weak, the rest of the team is just THAT strong. If he ever gets it all together to play his potential we will be unbeatable. If he don’t, we’ll still be great if he will just hand off the ball over and over. But A J Green should be able to solve any of Stafford’s problems of over-throwing the ball, that dude is gonna make Stafford a 1st round draft pick.

By Hunk Erdown

February 9, 2008 1:10 AM | Link to this

Sorry for all the football talk on this blog… I’ll go to bed now, lol.

By uga-brave

February 9, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this

hunker,

i agree, i have always been a little wiilie critic but or defense sure stepped up. staff is like a fine tuned sports car, really accurate or misfiring.

our defense next year should be nasty. reshad jones is going to declete some poor fool. our corners, allen and miiler should be great.

but that schedule? HUNKER do you realize we play at LSU, then go to J’VILLE, then AUBURN, and then kentucky, thats 4 weeks in a row before we see the HEDGES.

By nOLIE

February 9, 2008 1:55 AM | Link to this

I’ve gotten into Emmylou Harris, Teddy Thompson, Lucinda Williams, and the Frames. I enjoy music that is more folksy and brooding, but I just don’t know enough about music to find the hidden gems like Van Zandt. What would be the must have artists in a collection in your opinion, people like Van ZandtMike Honcho

If you like TOWNES try some JOHN PRINE, I especially like his first album the epynomous John Prine.and you mentioned EMMYLOU. I used to see her in Greenwich coffee houses as a waitress and folk singer in the 60s. what a voice. Her first Profile album is a real gem. It includes Boulder To Birmingham which she wrote after GRAM PARSONS death in the mid-70s. Many purists don’t care for best-of type compilations though the first Eagles Greatest Hits was the largest selling album in history last time I looked. Emmylou’s Profile is a gem. and of course that kinda leads into early Linda Ronstadt and Eagles stuff although they are very well-known of course. You might also like Bonnie Raitt. Have fun.

By uga-brave

February 9, 2008 2:21 AM | Link to this

brave 79,

jarett wright started games 5 vs. the stros. beltran got us, andruw hit a dinger to keep it close, oswalt started for the astros but we got killed. one year later we lost in houston. that series went 4 games.

as for smoltz coming out of the bullpen in the 6th inning, not correct.

the only time smoltz ever made a middle or late game appearance that was not a save appearance was 1999.

game two in atlanta against the mets, and in game six when we had already blew out al leiter in the 1st. inning. smoltz came in with one arm and gave up a 2 run dinger to piazza to tie the game up.

game six against the mets, instant classic. ozzie guiilen, brian hunter all heroes , and gerald williams led off with a double in extras.

then of course you got ricky and bobby BO playing go fish in the mets clubhouse.

kenny rogers is on the mound, BOBBY VALENTINE, at least he was not wearing that fake moustache, cringed when KENNY THREW BALL FOUR TO ANDRUW.

braves go onto series lead the yanks 1-0 into the top of the 8th with maddux pitching and the wheels fall off.

HOSS did give us that run with a dinger.

By nOLIE

February 9, 2008 2:30 AM | Link to this

i think when all is said and done, chipper will have over 3000 hits, over 500 HR and AT LEAST 1800 RBIs. he will be hall of fame on his first ballot.DAP

Really? That would likely take at least 6 more years . Do you think he will play that long? Perhaps if he goes to the AL as a DH, but he has said that he hates DHing and gets bored when he doesn’t play the field. I hope he does manage to approach those numbers and they would certainly get him into the HOF real quick-like. It’s pretty impossible to really compare players cross-era though. For one thing homers and RBI were somewhat harder to come by in the 50s-60s than they have been in much of Chipper’s era. Chipper is my favorite player ever, but I’m not sure I’d rate him as better than Mantle who played in constant pain for a decade. But it certainly ain’t foolish to think either way.

By Hunk Erdown

February 9, 2008 4:07 AM | Link to this

uga

You’re right the schedule is monster, but here’s the way i am; if we had somehow backed into a national title this past year it would have been controversial and even a bit unsatisfying, with 2 losses… especially considering the two teams we lost to. This coming year is a two edged sword, danger all year long, but if we win out there can be no doubt who the best team is. Even with a loss, there would be no denying that we deserve to be in the hunt. If we are the best we should beat the best.

The NCAA championship should be the best of the rest of the nation versus the SEC champs… every year. In fact, the post season games for an SEC team is like a break in the schedule… just ask Ohio State. But seriously, if we could take last year’s team and finish 2nd in the country, we have a better shot the next few years than we ever have in the history of UGA, including the Walker years. The best thing that ever happened to Martinez was CMR giving the OC job to Bobo. It helped CMR to have more input on the defense and the whole team because he isn’t trying to do two full time jobs. I’m like you, I’ve been highly critical of Martinez because he’s either right on or way off, but if he’s got the right guys, especially cover corners that can handle man coverage he can work those linemen and lbs like he needs to. Hell, he finally learned that when you play the Gators if you key on Harvin and Teebow you neutralize half their friggin playbook. Seven sacks and forty plus points will do wonders against Urban Crier’s spread. Gators like to claim that we won because Teebow was hurt, but him being hurt had nothing to do with us scoring 42 and knocking him on his a$$ seven times, plus, if Urban wants to use him as a fullback instead of a qb, he needs to understand that this is the SEC and Teebow’s gonna take a serious a$$ whoopin to score all those 2 and 3 yard touchdowns.

Auburn is making a serious mistake in changing their whole offense, at least for the next few years, just my humble opinion, but they are trashing 100+ years of tradition for something that is really not well suited for SEC play anyway. SEC defenses are too big and fast (especially fast) for the spread to work like it does in other parts of the Country. Its like trick plays, they work every now and then, but you don’t get away with it the whole game. It looked real good for a few years but good teams are learning how to defense it now.

I hope that Bobo, with CMR’s blessing, will decide to blow teams away this year… with our strength of schedule, if we score lotsa points it will help in the end. Besides, I’d like to see Stafford and the receivers pad their stats… I guarantee you Moreno will get his, if he can stay healthy. Again, to everyone else- sorry for the Football chat on the baseball blog, just answering uga-brave’s questions…lol

By Hunk Erdown

February 9, 2008 4:17 AM | Link to this

U Know Who

I sure could use a favor. I had a nice bat with your autograph leaning in the corner of my bedroom. Last night when I went to bed, my wife and I got kinda frisky and she whispered in my ear, “Give me ten and make it hurt.” So we did it twice and I hit her in the head with the bat. She’s fine but I busted that darn bat right in two pieces. Could you help a brother out?

By jed

February 9, 2008 4:17 AM | Link to this

oh. no i dont mind at all. i’m a life coach.

By lin

February 9, 2008 7:34 AM | Link to this

oh my here comes nascar oh ya and right behind here go the braves to fla. well if every one stays good health i move them to number 2. im sorry but older a pitcher gets more risks out there for him.look red sox problem with cs now does he retire or take chance for injuries down season.no one knows whats ahead for any player its chance one takes each season.none of braves pitchers will get 20 wins.if lucky maybe 15.as for mh returning would not suprise me if braves do last minute trade with him included in it.now braves please prove me wrong this season.

By William

February 9, 2008 7:47 AM | Link to this

Concur with the excitement about NASCAR starting tonight and pitchers/catchers reporting soon. I’m not a basketball guy and the week after the SuperBowl there is nothing on TV for me.

I asked this question last night and I didn’t see any responses. Does anyone know if the Braves spring training practices open to the public????

By William

February 9, 2008 7:53 AM | Link to this

Agreed that KJ shouldn’t be overlooked. I have to say though, that he drives me nuts because he seems “too” patient sometimes at the plate. He takes a lot of good pitches. He’s the total opposite of Francoeur (who has gotten much better btw). I’d be curious to know how many times KJ struckout looking last year.

By Braveheart

February 9, 2008 8:03 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB, it was nice meeting you at Ella Guru yesterday. Finally took DOB up on all the Wilco recs he makes. Really good stuff. Good looking out. Had to also get some Jay-Z, Led Zeppelin, Radiohead, Blackstar while I was there. I already had those CDs but I had to replace them because my little sisters and their boyfriends love to steal my cds. KInd of a pain but that’s what little sisters and their boyfriends are for …… and why you love ‘em (well, the little sisters that is. don’t got much love for their little weasel boyfriends).

By TommyP

February 9, 2008 8:09 AM | Link to this

HunkErDown: You probably don’t read the Rivals Georgia page but a LOT of people (including myself) were predicting Curran to break out in his freshman year. I’m not sure when he began to start but I said by midseason so I couldn’t have been that far off.

You could see in his high school footage how special a player he was and then add to the fact that he won the state of Georgia powerlifting championship and you have a freak of a player on your hands.

As far as basketball, Mr. Felton’s back is now against the wall. I always said as long as this season doesn’t become a lost cause, he’s back for next year. Uhhhh…it’s slowly eroding and Florida is on tap today. Yikes.

Bobby Knight to LSU? Never know. I certainly don’t buy the “he’s tired of coaching” line. I think he’s tired of certain aspects of the job (the cheating by others) but I could see him at LSU. Lots of outdoor activities to do there as well.

Braves breakout seasons: Jurrjens, KJ, and Frenchy.

By Random

February 9, 2008 8:13 AM | Link to this

A big, euphemistic gosh darn, DOB == that was a great analysis. Thanks.

(I’ll make some minor picks at it later.)

But for now, you’ve got me ready for the ST — can’t hardly wait.

Thanks again.

By Braveheart

February 9, 2008 8:15 AM | Link to this

I am excited for NASCAR as well. Won’t be the same though without Junior in the red Bud 8 car. I don’t like the new paint scheme or number. What the hell is Amp energy drink? And why is it that when every wide receiver wants to have a single digit number instead of a number in the 80s, Junior opts for 88 instead of the 5? I understand 88 has history with the Earnhardt family and Nascar but single digit numbers are what catches the camera’s eye. And so does BUD instead of AMP. And so does red instead of green. After the initial novelty wears off, if he ain’t winning, I think the camera will find him less than it used to when he had the red Bud 8. Oh well, the move to the dark side will be worth it though. Having Jimmie and Gordon as partners on the track will benefit him greatly since his teammates have never been up to the task of helping him. And having no family drama and better engines and cars will help a ton also. But it just won’t be the same rooting for him in anything other than the red Bud 8.

By Braveheart

February 9, 2008 8:22 AM | Link to this

TommyP, Bobby Knight to LSU would be very exciting. I think that sounds like a match made in heaven. Would be great to have The General spend a part of his career in the SEC.

Hunkerdown, I agree with you about Auburn. Tuberville wasn’t much of anything over there until Borges arrived. They lost 4 games the year before with Jason Campbell, Ronnie Brown, Cadillac Williams, and Brandon Jacobs in the same backfield. But Borges with the offense and Muschamp with the defense got it turned around and they went undefeated. I don’t give much credit to Tuberville for that undefeated season. I give it to Borges and Muschamp. The offense has been down the last few years but that had nothing to do with Borges. Brandon Cox stunk.

By Hunk Erdown

February 9, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this

Braveheart

I agree completely about Borges and Muschamp. Gonna be the same thing with the Vols losing Cutcliffe and Ainge. They may lose 4-5 SEC games this year.

TommyP

I know a lot of people like yourself were high on Curran, I saw his film and was too, but I was more hoping than predicting he would do well. As well as he did, I don’t think you’ve seen nothing yet. He could set some serious records before he leaves the Classic City, and he’s got some monster-lean team-mates. In the next few years I predict our defense will set an NCAA record for avg points allowed per game, even though we’re in the SEC… and we could possibly run the table once or twice with our stable of running backs for the next several years. I have never seen a more potent and balanced team anywhere, anytime. With the growth of our young O-line from last year and the new ones coming onboard under Searles’ leadership the sky is the limit. Plus, we’ve got another pile of red-shirts this year.

By Niels Boor

February 9, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

Mike Hampton —

I know you’re as dumb as a bag full of hammers — no excuses or apologies are necessary.

But I also know you can pitch the friggin’ lights out, you are as tough as effin nails and you are absolutely driven to win — no quarter asked or given.

Best of all good luck to you this year — give’ em all (including me) hell, buddy boy!!

By Braveheart

February 9, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

Trading away Renteria shows a faith in Yunel Escobar that is likely misplaced. However, the presence of Brent Lillibridge should save them.

Escobar is a utility infielder who happened to have a peak season for batting average. The Braves can’t get Renteria back, but they can minimize the damage by moving quickly past Escobar to Lillibrdge. The 24-year-old has good secondary skills and a plus glove at shortstop; rumors that he might be moved to center field persist, but those have more to do with the Braves’ fascination with Escobar than with Lillibridge’s skills.

trying to do it with holes at center field, shortstop, and in the bullpen is a shame

What is Sheehan smoking? Like others here have said, has he ever seen Yunel Escobar play?

2005, A Ball: .313, .358, .470

2007, AAA: .333, .379, .456

2007, MLB: .326, .385, .451

There does not seem to be much fluky about that. Seems pretty darn consistent. Doesn’t look like him having a peak season. When McCann hit as high as he did in 2006, that seemed more like someone having a peak year because his minor league numbers did not suggest he would hit that way. But Escobar hitting that way just seems to be a continuation of what he was doing in the minors.

The lone exception was the lost 2006 season down in AA Mississippi. But there was something wrong with the water down there in Mississippi that year. Salty slumped big time. Yunel slumped. Brandon Jones didn’t hit for the same average or OBP he usually does. And even Martin Prado hit worse than he usually does. Maybe, as Nuke Laloosh sang, those Dixie debutantes down in Mississippi were keeping our boys wooly in 2006.

If you look at Yunel’s stats from that year, it looks like he might have been too patient. His walks were higher than usual and so were his strikeouts. Sometimes, people don’t realize that when minor leaguers slump, it is because they are working on something. Being more patient is against Yunel’s nature as a hitter.

I used to say Sheehan kind of stuff about Yunel as well. Until I got to watch him everyday. I used to mock him for having less homers than Michael Jordan did in 1994 in AA.

But when you watch the guy play everyday, you see the dude just gets the sweet part of the bat on the ball almost every time and hits laser beams all over the yard. So what if they don’t go over the fence?

2005, minors, Babip: .361

2006, minors, Babip: .318

2007, minors, Babip: .384

MLB, Babip: .364

I’m sorry. I don’t know what the hell this Sheehan dude is talking about. Yunel hits the ever living crap out of the ball. Your eyeballs, his AVG and Babip stats tell you that. There was nothing fluky about his season last year. He reminds me of what Julio Franco was 20 to 25 years ago and also of the presence of Derek Jeter.

Look, I didn’t like the Edgar trade because (1) I thought 1100, 1200 plate appearances combined of Yunel and Edgar would be best for this team; and (2) I love Edgar. But the trade brought back good talent and Yunel will be just as good as Edgar normally is.

Did Sheehan get Yunel and Edgar confused? ‘Cause although I love Edgar, last year’s batting average for Edgar seemed to be the one people need to point to and say was a peak year in his batting average.

Yunel is far more than just a supersub. I love Wilson Betemit but I know Wilson ain’t nothing more than a supersub. Yunel, on the other hand, has all the makings of a star.

By richbrave

February 9, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

No FSN. No Sports South. No Peachtree T.V. Don’t have a dish. Verizon has no packages for the Braves. Besides MLBExtra Innings, do I have any options other than the 18 games between the Nationals and the Braves where I have to listen to Don Sutton - ugh!

By Nelson

February 9, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

The 11th key: For me this team has a pretty good line-un from top to buttom (quite difficult for any pitcher), now that Andrew is gone, they all put the ball in play a lot and do not strike out too much. Now we probably will have a very good back-up catcher (is said that Javy is in great shape), the only hole or question mark we have are the No. 4 and 5 starters, but as Wren said there are 5 potencial candidates for those positions, the ones that do not qualify could go to the bull-pen, a long reliever or a couple are needed, specially now that Smoltzie want to skip a start once in a while to arrive stronger to the post season and this is exactly my point! We need one of the best managerial season from Bobby Cox: He needs to recover the national league Title but at the same time he needs to rest key players, we all know that U Kno Who will take his brake, but Francouer needs to rest ( I believe Thorman is still in the team, he could practice right field to substitute Francouer from time to time), also Mc Cann (if Javy make the team) he can rest more often not only for a particular pitcher, but for example when we face a lefty, remember javy use to be a lefty killer! and so on everybody needs a brake! the players are not made or iron they are humans, and I hope to put an end to Andrew’s era cmpletly. We don’t need nobody breaking the more games played record, we need to win the division and go to the play-off, period!

By Braveheart

February 9, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

Are they really thinking of renaming Wrigley Field by selling naming rights to a corporation? Is nothing sacred anymore?

By Garry Smyrna

February 9, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

well all hope springs eternal.This should be a very interesting year for the Braves kinda a crossraods in a way. A mixture of young and old maybe like we have never seen.I know we will miss andrews defense this year but really how many runs will that save us for 18 million, I love the mix we have put togather i just wish we had that one more starter i know Glavine has had a great career but im not sold on him yet.Edgar R was a steady force for us at SS and his quiet leadership i think will be missed some.Looking forward to the Georgia Braves game in Orlando my son is pitching for Georgia this year. Thanks for the awsome blog

By Random

February 9, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

WarParty —

I stand corrected — I do not dipute your assertion at all, good sir.

I regret that I only recently stumbled across him — I’ve got a lot of catching up to do, it would appear.

Thanks for the affirmation/confirmation.

By Random

February 9, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

DOB: “The Braves used to head to spring training as favorites to win their division. It didn’t matter what personnel changes Atlanta — or its opponents — had made.”

Sorry, bud – absolutely, utterly wrong.

Maybe it was before your time, but it’s legendary here how the Braves were never given any respect going into a new season, regardless of how long their division-winning streak had grown.

I’ve just spent an hour or so trying to come up with documentary evidence, but I’ll leave it to the otehr denizens to rebut or confirm what I just asserted.

By beekay

February 9, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

If Hampton has a decent season,would he feel obligated to give the Braves a discounted second contract. If not how much could he make if he wins say 10 games and has a 4.0 era….would a team give him more than a 2 year deal? What is the latest on the pitcher we got from the Royals that had arm surgery?

By Random

February 9, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

Nelson: Pretty much agree with you.

But as for “but Francouer needs to rest” — you know what I think?

I think Francoeur really and seriously has his eye set on Ripken’s record. Really == no joke.

Hey, DOB — any insights on this? Have you seen any indication that Frenchy might be going for it for the next — what? — 17 seasons or so?

Also, Nelson — as far as “We need one of the best managerial season from Bobby Cox:”

The main thing (imo) that Cox needs to do is manage his bullpen more effectively.

By Thrillhouse44

February 9, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

beekay, I think the days of discounted contracts are a thing of the past. Andruw didn’t give a discount after a pretty awful season.

By Random

February 9, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

richbrave — someone has mentioned channelsurfing.net — have you checked that out?

(For more details, search the last couple of blogs — it was fairly recently. Search maybe for McFann — I know she was involved in the discussion.)

By AdirondackDave

February 9, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

beekay — If Hampton has a decent year I still doubt any team (well there’s always the yanks) would give him more than a 1-year deal at maybe 4m. Perhaps with a club option year. His troubles for the last 3 years are legendary. If he does well, I’d like to see the Braves keep him for low and short numbers.

By David O'Brien

February 9, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

Nolie, great rec on Prine. I second that. Brilliant songwriter, and another with a distinct, lived-in voice that delivers his words perfectly. Saw him in concert a couple years ago with Todd Snyder opening. Great show on both ends.

Prine’s solo stuff, particularly his self-titled debut with Angel from Montgomery (can you believe he was 24 when this came out?), and the albums Diamonds in the Rough and The Missing Years, are outstanding, as is his duets album In Spite of Ourselves, which was his tip of the cap to the classic country he grew up with. He duets with Lucinda, Emmylou, Gillian Welch, Iris Dement, Trisha Yearwood, on and on. I LOVE his duet with Dement on “We’re Not The Jet Set.” We’re not the jet set, we’re the old Chevrolet set….

By TexasBrave

February 9, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

I believe it was DOB that mentioned that since the Braves have such starting pitching depth that a few teams might come calling towards the end of March. Although I am very excited about the depth we do have I only need to think back to all the break downs that we have had in the past and the very real possibility of breakdowns that we could have this year that we shouldn’t be trading anyone.

It would be different if we had starters with no arm problems and were in their 20’s to mid 30’s but we don’t. Smoltz as good as he is has issues that could easily crop up this year. Although Tommy has proven durable in the past, just given his age means injury is very possible. Hampton and Chucky if healthy to start the year could go down at any time.

What I am trying to say as good as depth that we have it is very possible that one or more of our starters will need to be replaced and I would much prefer to have as many quality options as possible.

By David O'Brien

February 9, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

Random, I wasn’t talking about the entire 14-title run. Guess I should’ve clarified. I was talking about that period from very end of 1990s until the streak finally ended, when I and others who covered NL East teams basically stopped picking against Braves for reasons I stated. stop picking nits.

By Random

February 9, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Good stuff, Braveheart — hat’s off to ya.

(Where do you find the time?)

By TexasBrave

February 9, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

Thrillhouse44 - I don’t believe Andruw was given the chance to give a team discount. The Braves pretty much said thanks for the memories (good and bad) and don’t let the door hit you on the way out.

By David O'Brien

February 9, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

REGARDING M. BUSH: Folks, don’t get too worked up over that. As I suspected, it’s another case of the Pads’ front office letting info slip to the media (often happens) and things getting overblown. I’m told Braves like Bush’s raw talent, but wouldn’t give up much if anything for him. They’d probably only take a flyer on him if he became a free agent.

In the big picture, this isn’t isn’t much to talk about at this point. He’s not even supposed to be ready to play during the ‘08 season, if I’m not mistaken. That would not be a major move even it were made….

BRAVEHEART: That was the fun part of doing that fill-in gig at the record store yesterday. Besides being able to play great CDs on the store system, of course. Being able to meet a few blog diehards and a few others who read the blog regularly but don’t post (there are many), that was very cool.

And seeing “our people” make such good-taste purchases. Always encouraging.

But I gotta say, line of the day was when one of the read-only guys named Chris introduced himself and then walked over to the just-in used CD section and said, “Got any Whitesnake in here?”

By Thrillhouse44

February 9, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

Good point, TexasBrave.

By David O'Brien

February 9, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

oh, and Braveheart: They are indeed considering selling naming rights at Wrigley. Obviously nothing is sacred anymore.

After all, there’s no Boston Garden anymore.

And the coming Citi Field … gimme a break.

By Thrillhouse44

February 9, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, what Jay-Z CD did you pick up yesterday?

By Thrillhouse44

February 9, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

When are they going to sell the naming rights of the Braves/MIB/BBQ blog? If you could/had sell to any advertiser, who would it be, DOB?

By David O'Brien

February 9, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

Random, I just saw my spring preview story as it’s posted on our website.

Might have been more clear if they hadn’t slashed this paragraph from the intro, which they probably did in order to make it fit the page design:

“That was back when the Braves had won it so many times in a row, prognosticators figured they’d keep picking them until they didn’t win. Times have changed.”

By AdirondackDave

February 9, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

Anybody familiar with the Asheville, NC area? Restaurants, weather, baseball, housing costs, etc. I’m getting tired of 7 month winters we often get up here. I need plenty of ammunition to convince my wife though.

By Mad Mike

February 9, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

Thanks again for the music recs DOB. Not really a punk fan (re: “X”) but I like a few bands who confess some punk influences. Will check out Anna & Co.

By Mad Mike

February 9, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

I just found some youtubery of an Kramer and the L.C. A live performance in what appears to be downtown Atlanta (behind windows anyway)…yeah I liked it. But you know who her voice kind of reminds me of? The female lead vocal in Donna the Buffalo. But that’s just one song….

By Mad Mike

February 9, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

I just found some youtubery of an Kramer and the L.C. A live performance in what appears to be downtown Atlanta (behind windows anyway)…yeah I liked it. But you know who her voice kind of reminds me of? The female lead vocal in Donna the Buffalo. But that’s just one song….

By chucktown

February 9, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

William, yes the Braves ST facility is open to the public. You have to pay ($12 or so) to get into Disney’s Wide World of Sports facility and the main stadium and the practice fields are accessible from it. On game day you’ll have to pay for a ticket if you want to see the game. If there is no game, the stadium is open. Personally I prefer going when there is no game as there are a lot fewer fans and I’ve gotten some awesome autographs: CJ, Andruw, Gary Sheffield, Phil Niekro, and tons more.

By Braveheart

February 9, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

Thrillhouse, I bought the Blueprint. That’s my favorite of his. I think it’s the 4th time I have had to buy it. Left behind in a rental car one time. Some old white lady probably got quite a rude surprise when she found that in the CD player. The other two times I think my sisters took ‘em. Can’t prove it but I have my suspicions due to years of experiencing their idea of “borrowing.”

But Blueprint is my fave of Jay-Z. His latest, American Gangster, is a close second. His MTV Unplugged cd is third. But, as you know, it’s hard to go wrong with Jay. He’s been carrying rap almost by himself since Tupac and Biggie got killed. He’s really the only rapper ever that gets it. He does not have the best sounding voice, is not the best lyricist but he is gonna keep putting out new hits every single year, aiming as he says to “own every summer.” Take a year or two or three off, and they forget ya and you are done.

And Thrillhouse, thanks again for the Ghostface/Peter Tosh cd.

By nOLIE

February 9, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Prine’s solo stuff, particularly his self-titled debut with Angel from Montgomery (can you believe he was 24 when this came out?), and the albums Diamonds in the Rough and The Missing Years, are outstanding, as is his duets album In Spite of OurselvesDOB

yeah its great. IIRC it made Rolling Stones list of top 500 albums of all time a few years ago. Ever try any Leo Kotke? Some of his stuff is instrumental and some contain vocals.quite the guitarist… as is Roy Buchanan who unfortunately committed suicide in a jail cell in 1988. Bummer. His late blues albums for Alligator were b***’.

By Rhett

February 9, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

DOB, Saw the Whigs at 8X10 in Baltimore last week. Good stuff…. You get the sense that they’re destined for big things. A close friend of mine is Tim Deaux’s cousin, and I was able to hang out the band a little before and after the show. Genuinely nice guys and very grateful to their fans and for their recent success. Made me like them that much more. I know you’re a fan, so I thought you might be interested.

By Thrillhouse44

February 9, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, I don’t know what I would do without Blueprint. I have American Gangster in my ride right now. BUT, I’m going to have to say my favorite is Reasonable Doubt. It’s such a smooth CD. I love listening to that one on a nice sunny spring day with the windows down. I have a theory that most rappers’ first album is their best.

By Random

February 9, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

[Tonya]http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/braves/entries/2008/02/08/kjgetsoverloo.html#comment-21134502() * don’t think we can wait *that lomg.

8-)

Just joking — come, home chrisklob.

By Rhett

February 9, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

DOB, Saw the Whigs at 8X10 in Baltimore last week. Good stuff…. You get the sense that they’re destined for big things. A close friend of mine is Tim Deaux’s cousin, and I was able to hang out the band a little before and after the show. Genuinely nice guys and very grateful to their fans and for their recent success. Made me like them that much more. I know you’re a fan, so I thought you might be interested.

By DAP

February 9, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

NOLIE i really do think chipper will play at least 4 more years, and i think he can make the 500 HR plateu in that time, (he only needs 114 more) but you are right about hits. it will likely take him about 6 years to get 3000.

im not sure if he will play 6 more years, but he might. i think people assume he wont be able to play in his 40s because of injury,but if he has conquered his chronic feet issues, theres no reason to think(at this point) he cant keep playing.

until he shows signs of slowing down, which he absolutely hasnt yet, hes the best third baseman in the league.

By Braveheart

February 9, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Thrillhouse, Reasonable Doubt is real good. For some reason, I always rank that fourth although it may be the best. I can’t believe it only took him 30 days to do the entire American Gangster album.

And I agree with you about the first records being the best. You see that alot with movie directors and screenwriters as well. I think they have all of these pent up emotions and thoughts that explode the first time into a spectacular voice, then their life changes and they are not as angry with the world, and it gets hard to find that same voice without feeling like a phony.

They go from painting a grim picture of life on the streets to talking bling bling. It’s like howe Eddie Murphy became alot less funny the further and further he got away from the neighborhood he grew up in.

I think a problem with rap is that too many rules have been set up for how “hardcore” your sound has to be and it limits rappers from talking about more than the streets or bling bling. Outkast seem to be the only cats that don’t give a crap about catering to that concern but somehow still keep it real.

By Mad Mike

February 9, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

Rhett I just found out about The Whigs (actually here on the blog) and yeah they’re great. Hear anything about plans to tour further south than North Carolina? Maybe later in the tour…?

By N8

February 9, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

DOB

“But I gotta say, line of the day was when one of the read-only guys named Chris introduced himself and then walked over to the just-in used CD section and said, “Got any Whitesnake in here?”

LOVE IT!!

By Thrillhouse44

February 9, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, I agree. Outkast, Jigga, Talib, Ghostface, and a select few don’t follow the pattern.

Glad you got the Ghostface CD.

By Lew

February 9, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

UGA Brave-So what’s any harder about the Dawgs’ schedule next year? It’s still the Usual Suspects. Like you pointed out, our defense will be first rate and the offense will all be sophomores and juniors, coming off of a good season-now with a full year’s experience.

We should be ranked #1 pre season and also when all is said and done in January 09. We WILL win the National Championship next year.

By Random

February 9, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

DOB — I stand corrected, sir, as long as you’re standing with me.

Know what I mean?

And to try again for “Tonya” —

Don’t think we can wait that long.

8-)

Just joking — come, home chrisklob.

By Smokey Joe Wood

February 9, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

Unfortunately, Ron Shandler agrees with Baseball Prospectus about Escobar. “Great BA in debut, but xBA and h% say it won’t repeat. Other than that, there’s not much here: little power, and AAA speed didn’t show in ATL. Decent backup MI, but that’s all for now.”

These guys (Shandler and the Prospectus writer) are sabermetricians. They analyze data based on historical trends; they’re not wearing the rose-colored glasses of fans. I hope they are wrong, but Yunel is certainly not yet a proven commodity at short, based on <500 AB. I’m just glad we have a Lillibridge in the wings. I say it’s 50/50 that he ends up being our shortstop in 2009.

Tecumseh Valley by Townes Van Zandt is a perfect folk song. Storytelling at its sparest and finest.

By TommyP

February 9, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

Lew: Georgia’s schedule is much harder than usual.

We should get off to a good start with the first two games but we then go TO South Carolina (they’re such an achilles heal to us), go to Az.State, then come home for Bama (not too bad so far).

After an open date, we host Tenn. (always a great game) and Vandy. Problem is that the Vandy game is the last time we’re in Athens ‘til the last game. October 18th is the last home game ‘til Tech! Wow…what were the schedule-makers thinking.

We go to LSU, to Jax. for the Florida game, to Kentucky and to Auburn. That’s a horrible stretch.

I’ve heard from many, many people that most feel Georgia is a national championship team WITHOUT a national championship schedule.

By nOLIE

February 9, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

Amen on all of the above,Smokey Joe. I’m gonna be interested to see how Yunel does this season. I’m pretty sure his BA and OBP will take a fair hit, but I’m hoping he still has a good year. Emmylou has covered several Townes songs including Tecumseh and I really like them all along with his originals

By Lew

February 9, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

TommyP-Doesn’t matter. Richt’s teams ALWAYS perform on the road. 08 is the Dawgs’ year.

By richbrave

February 9, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

YUNEL is a great player. He certainly favorably impressed me here in Richmond last year. My only concern is his attitude. He MAY be a distraction in the clubhouse. I sense a ME,ME,ME presence in the limited conversation I had with him over the 1st base dugout in one game. Hope I’m wrong, or hope he grows out of it if I’m right. He can be a great asset to the Braves assuming he buys into their program.

By David O'Brien

February 9, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Rhett, Whigs are as sure a thing for bigness as I’ve seen in an “alt-rock” band the past couple years, just based on their first two albums. And I’d say that if they were from Boise instead of Atlanta. They’re great.

Try the Selmanaires. Different sound, but some similarities in there.

By Mad Mike

February 9, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

Lew the schedule is tougher because of the road games, LSU, South Carolina, the Cocktail Party, et al. And the cupcakes are tough (Central Michigan won the MAC last year and Dennis Erickson is at ASU now. Plus Tech and Georgia Southern is not a joke.) We’ve got a good team…but the schedule is even more brutal than usual.

By TommyP

February 9, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Lew: Now THAT is something we can agree on.

Greatest coach we’ve ever had.

By David O'Brien

February 9, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Mad Mike, don’t be scared off by that “punk” reference I made. I’ve never really thought of X as a “punk” band, even though that’s how they’re classified by most music folks. I know they’ve got punk elements, but I always just thought of them as an edgy rock band, more garage rock than punk in some ways. But just a damn good rock band, to me. Sex Pistols, Ramones, Dead Kennedys, Black Flag … those are straight-ahead punk bands, for me, and X don’t sound anything like them.

By David O'Brien

February 9, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Thrillhouse, I’d maybe go with a cool record label as sponsor, somebody like Bloodshot Records, or maybe the local folks International Hits.

But since they don’t really sponsor these type of things, I’d have to give it some thought for other options. Maybe Kraft Macaroni & Cheese?

No, how ‘bout Stone Mountain Harley-Davidson? (plug for free service on my next visit)

By Mad Mike

February 9, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

10-4 DOB

By Smoky Joe Wood

February 9, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

nOLIE, I came to know Townes through Emmylou and Nancy Griffith. I’ve heard Nancy’s version of “Tecumseh…”, but not Emmylou’s. I love her “Pancho & Lefty” on the Luxury Liner album. That also has her best song ever, IMO: “Making Believe.”

One thing I would say… while I have a lot of respect for sabermetrics—Bill James and his disciples are right more often than not—I have even more respect for “baseball men”, the quintessential example of which is Bobby Cox. If he believes in Yunel as a hitter, then that trumps any sabermetrician. Like DOB’s point about Bobby raving about Kelly Johnson—to me, that is worth more than any amount of data analysis by some geek that never played the game. (Although, as I said, their methods are sound and they are usually right.)

James also made a point about the age of a prospect—the sooner he gets here, the better the prospect. Remember Andruw hitting homers in the Series as a teenager? You knew then he was the real deal. Escobar is 25. He’s not likely to suddenly make a quantum leap offensively… unless he’s tight with Brian McNamee. ;)

By Smoky Joe Wood

February 9, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

FWIW, Ron Shandler’s Baseball Forecaster agrees with DOB (and most of us)on KJ: “Strong, consistent debut, especially given lost 2006. Only real wart in skill set is borderline ct% [contact rate: (AB-K’s)/AB], but that is balanced by room for growth in power and speed. A rare five-category contributor at scarce MI position.”

By Thrillhouse44

February 9, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

DOB, how about Macanudo’s MIB/Braves/BBQ Blog?

By Murphy

February 9, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

By AdirondackDave

February 9, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

Anybody familiar with the Asheville, NC area? Restaurants, weather, baseball, housing costs, etc. I’m getting tired of 7 month winters we often get up here. I need plenty of ammunition to convince my wife though.

—The Asheville Tourist (SP?) games were always pretty lively when I was up there. There is a good art scene and of course the mountains are just beautiful. Plus if you like to gamble you can head to Cherokee which is only an hour or so away.

By Steve McP

February 9, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Am I the only person to see the irony in complaining about selling naming rights to Wrigley Field when the stadium is already named after a commercial enterprise?

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

February 9, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

Chipper Jones 386 HR’s 1299 RBI .307 BA 2117 hits.

Mickey Mantle 536 HR’s 1509 RBI .298 BA 2415 hits.

Eddie Murray 504 HR’s 1917 RBI .287 BA 3255 hits.

Pete Rose 4256 hits .303 BA (all time hits leader) 3215 singles 746 doubles 135 triples 160 HR’s.

C’mon , I want to hear from some knowledgeable fans. How do you rank them as switch hitters as of right now ? not five years into some fanciful future , RIGHT NOW.

My top five is Mantle , Murray , Rose , Chipper and Frankie Frisch.

By Steve McP

February 9, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Asheville is a very good place to live, the Tourists generate a nice atmosphere, although it is only low A ball.

It has a very good music and bar scene for the evenings and the mountains and lakes around and about give lots of choice for activities during the day.

There also seems to be a street festival of some sort going on downtown almost every week during the summer, including Bele Chere which is becoming one of the largest free music festivals around.

On the downside house prices have gone up a lot in the last few years, but that reflects the high marks it gets in livability surveys.

By AMG

February 9, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

The Asheville area is beautiful. All 4 seasons- not too hot, not too cold. It is a growing city. Depending upon which area of Buncome County you choose to live, housing prices vary. Some of the other surrounding counties are good places to live and raise a family… Transylvania, Henderson, etc… The Music/Art scene is great and if you enjoy out door activities, you will like the area.

It was a great place to grow-up.

By Tonya

February 9, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

Random, you’re probably right. :-(

By Peter Mariano

February 9, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

DOB did you hear anything about Hampton felt after throwing off the mound today?

By woogidy

February 9, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

DOB, How did Hampton’s mound session go this morning?

By Goodoleboy58

February 9, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

Hey yall I’m new around here… I stumbled upon the Chipper blog and got hooked… I can’t wait for Baseball and the Braves in particular. I’m deployed out in Iraq so I have plenty of free time to read up on my Braves.. I too am pretty high on KJ he’s impressed me since his 0-fer in his rookie year… He always had a good eye and kept hitting the ball hard.. I look forward to talking baseball with yall..

By David O'Brien

February 9, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

Thrillhouse, I like it. How about Trojan? (kidding, folks)

Woogidy, don’t know, didn’t go out there (hey, it’s his sixth mound session since the hammy injury, not like his first mound session since elbow surgery. I ain’t going out there every day Hampton throws before spring training even begins. It wouldn’t have been anything to write for the paper)

By David O'Brien

February 9, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

McP, Wrigley Field is no more named for a “commercial enterprise” than Turner Field is.

Here’s a brief part of the history of Wrigley Field:

… In 1920 the name was changed to Cubs’ Park because the team had a new owner, William Wrigley Jr. Weeghman was no longer involved with the park or the team. The name was changed again in 1926 to Wrigley Field in honor of William Wrigley. If you’re wondering, he is the same guy who owns The Wrigley Building and the gum company.

By AdirondackDave

February 9, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Thanks Murphy, Steve McP, and AMG for you helpful comments about Asheville. I’ve talked the wife into checking it out this spring.

Also thanks goodoleboy58 for your courage and efforts on our behalf over in Irag. We all hope you’re home soon, and for good.

By ColoradoBravesFan

February 9, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

goodoleboy58 Stay safe. I was deployed a couple years ago to camp Victory, worked at the palace there.

As the Army guys told me then… chin up; a* down. GO BRAVOS

By DAP

February 9, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

coach

ok, here i am. a knowledgeable baseball fan to answer your question of the top switch hitters ever.

i would rank the guys we were talking about like this.

1. eddie murray

2. chipper jones

3. mickey mantle

4. pete rose

if you take everything into account, including how many seasons they played, chipper doing what hes done in just 14 seasons is awesome.

By woogidy

February 9, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

I guess I should have said how did Roger Mcdowell say Hampton’s mound session go today, but, if you didn’t go down there, you don’t know. This would have been the first session that Mcdowell would have seen, correct?

By William

February 9, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

By AdirondackDave

February 9, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

Anybody familiar with the Asheville, NC area? Restaurants, weather, baseball, housing costs, etc. I’m getting tired of 7 month winters we often get up here. I need plenty of ammunition to convince my wife though.

I’m originally from Spartanburg, SC which is about 45mins from Asheville. I’ve been to Asheville many times and I can tell you that it’s a beautiful area. The mountains are beautiful and there is not a prettier place in the fall. As far as baseball goes, I know they have the minor league team (Asheville Tourist). I would say they have most of the typical restaurants and the housing market is very reasonable. I’d highly recommend the area and I wouldn’t mind living there myself.

By April

February 9, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

GO BRAVES

KELLY YOU ROCK

WORLD SERIES RING IN ‘08

By TNRON

February 9, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

AdirondackDave: Have you considered the Sevierville,Tn areaa? Located about 15 miles east of Knoxville,it is a great place to live.The weather is mild most of the year,a little hot in July and August, and has plenty of activities including the Great Smoky Mountains Nation Park,Gatlinburg,and of course Dollywood.Plenty of lakes too for fishing and boating.Located just off I-40 exit 407 is Smokies Park,home of the Chicago Cubs AA affiliate Tennessee Smokies.Equally distanced is Nashville,200 miles west and Atlanta 200 miles south.Also Asheville is only about 90 miles away.Cost of housing is excellent compared to most places as testified by all the folks relocating from the north and Florida.If you are looking for a combination of good weather,activities,and quality of life consider east Tennessee.

By William

February 9, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

AdirondackDave: Have you considered the Sevierville,Tn areaa?

Good Point. Another really nice area. Only downside would be the tourist. The Knoxville area to live also and the cost of living is great.

By William

February 9, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this

Can someone tell me about this Peachtree TV? I heard it was just the knew name for TBS. Is that not true?

By TNRON

February 9, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

Following up on my last post,I live just outside of Sevierville overlooking Douglas Lake,technically in a small town called Dandridge.Close enough to take advantage when I want and yet away from the traffic and tourists.Many people in my neighborhood are folks that have relocated.The traffic in Sevierville can be aggravating for sure,but after you’ve been here a while you learn backroads to get around it.Again though the close proximity to Knoxville is good for entertainment value and also quality health care options.

By Random

February 9, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this

Hey, TNRON, I’m a 37722 fella, myself. My nephew was Cosby Eagles football MVP (not to brag, of course; just establishing my hillbilly creds).

Howdy, neighbor — maybe we’ll run into each other at a Smokies ganme.

By Josh H

February 9, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

Since we frequently talk about music tonight, my roommates and I are going to a rock and roll party tonight. We’ve decided to go as The Beatles, and since I still have my long shaggy hair, I’ll be going as Ringo.

William: TBS used to broadcast over the air here in Atlanta. TBS has now gone completely cable, and Peachtree TV is occupying the over-the-air signal. So they exist as two separate entities.

By William

February 9, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

So, Peachtree TV is only available in the Atlanta area?

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 9, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

woogidy — that 5:48 post was a little tasteless. people have gotten on the resident Mets trolls for that kind of stuff.

By TNRON

February 9, 2008 7:25 PM | Link to this

Random,if I busted on you the other day and accidentally labeled you a Mets fan I am sorry.I was just having a little fun and probably didnt read all the previous posts.And even if you are a Mets fan thats all right too.I used to like to kid METSRULEYOUDROOL lovingly known as the Drooler.I only live about 5 minutes away from Smokies Park.I probably will go to more since there will be fewer Braves games on TV this year.BTW my nephew actually works for the Smokies.Small world,isnt it.Maybe I will meet you this year.Also I love HS football.I go to most of Sevier County’s games.

By john77

February 9, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

so if you live outside of Atlanta we can’t see the games Peachtree shows?I have emailed alot of people and know one can tell me.Maybe DOB can tell me.If not can you fine out DOB.Thanks for all the news and great blogs.

By David O'Brien

February 9, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

Woogidy, Hampton threw off the mound for Roger and Frank Wren out in Phoenix in November. Today’s session would have been first Roger’s seen since the hamstring injury, yes.

By David O'Brien

February 9, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

Williams, Peachtree TV is the former WTBS, not TBS. WTBS is the local broadcast station, which used to show same programming as the cable TBS, but won’t anymore. They’ve got separate programming now, though will share some stuff. The Braves games are centerpiece for the new Peachtree TV. WTBS is no more, at least not by that name.

By AdirondackDave

February 9, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

Many thanks to everybody whose offered info on Asheville and other areas to consider. I think we’re making some progress with my wife on this.

By David O'Brien

February 9, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

john77, i think that’s correct. i haven’t heard any plans for peachtree games to be carried by other stations outside the atlanta area. if there are such plans, they’re keeping them private, which wouldn’t make much sense.

By Steve McP

February 9, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

On the TV front, I have been thinking that I would simply use the MLB computer package to watch games. Just checked the website and have discovered that, although I live in NC and am 4 hours drive from the Ted, it is subject to blackout for Braves games.

With no agreement between dish network and the MLB on the subscription package it looks like I will be listening to a lot of radio this year

By StingerSplash

February 9, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

For those games on Peachtree TV, not available in all areas (like mine), does that those games will be blacked out on MLB.TV? With Schilling on the schelf for a while, it appears, do the Sox go, “Glad we didn’t give away Buchholz and Lester for Johan” or “we shoulda got Santana?”

By William

February 9, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

Well, I have Direct TV so I guess I’m set. I’ll just get the MLB extra innings package to catch the games on Peachtree TV.

By Roman Gal

February 9, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

Okay, I admit that I’m not the most knowledgeable baseball history fan, but I can read stats and player histories and such…so don’t crucify me over this list because, like I said…I don’t know a whole lot about it.

1. Mickey Mantle

2. Eddie Murray

3. Chipper Jones

4. Pete Rose

(maybe switch Chipper and Pete…idk)

By TNRON

February 9, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

AdirondackDave : let me know if I can help in any way in terms of info on my area.would be most glad to assist.if you like minor league baseball Smokies Park is great.Only about 7 or 8 years old.really a lot of fun in the summer and i can scout future Braves when Mississippi comes to town.

By Kris in NC

February 9, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

AdirondackDave I live near Asheville NC, let me tell you, it is a very beautiful city and you are near the mountains. Here is a website so you can check out Asheville. You have the Biltmore house that is located there plus their medical facilities are tops in the US. You are about 4 1/2 hours or so from Atlanta. I-40 is the main interstate that runs into Tn. and I-26 runs into S.C. I have lived in this area for 11 yrs and you have the Blue Ridge Parkway which during the fall is beautiful to drive on. Here is the site: http://www.exploreasheville.com/index.aspx

By Random

February 9, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

Hey, TNRON, I’m a 37722 fella, myself. My nephew was Cosby Eagles football MVP (not to brag, of course; just establishing my hillbilly creds).

Howdy, neighbor — maybe we’ll run into each other at a Smokies ganme.

By Random

February 9, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

Hey, TNRON, I’m a 37722 fella, myself. My nephew was Cosby Eagles football MVP (not to brag, of course; just establishing my hillbilly creds).

Howdy, neighbor — maybe we’ll run into each other at a Smokies ganme.

By Steve McP

February 9, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

William you will only get the Braves on Extra Innings if you live outside of Braves territory. I live out of state and 3 hours from Atlanta, but am still blacked out, not sure how far into NC that blackout zone extends.

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 9, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

DOB — what do you think about the Comfort Inn commercials that rewrite the lyrics to Johnny Cash’s “I’ve Been Everywhere”?

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

February 9, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

Roman Gal , the rankings of Rose and Chipper are debatable as Pete was more of a pure hitter versus the power hitter that Chipper is.

I really had to do some digging for these numbers as Mantle’s splits are not listed before 1957.

We are talking about switch hitters , so I thought why not list the right handed/left handed splits.

Mantle vs. righty’s : 373 HR’s and 163 HR’s against left handers.

Eddie Murray hit 363 HR’s against right handers and 142 HR’s when facing a southpaw.

Chipper Jones batting LH vs. RHP : 305 HR’s and RH vs. LHP : 81 HR’s

I would have to say that both Mantle and Murray were much more prolific power hitters from either side of the plate than Chipper has been during his career.

By AdirondackDave

February 9, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

TNRON and Kris in NC — It’s good to hear such positive comments on the Asheville area. We are heading for Atlanta next week to visit our son and grand kids and then on to Florida for a couple months. On our way back home in April we are going to check out Asheville first hand. It certainly seems to be a good mid-south location for us. We like four seasons but this endless winter up here is for the birds.

To make matters worse, for many years we had a NY-Penn league minor league team, low-A Utica Blue Sox. One year after he retired, Cal Ripkin bought the club and moved it to Maryland! As you can imagine, he has few friends around here.

By Random

February 9, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

Hey, TNRON, I’m a 37722 fella, myself. My nephew was Cosby Eagles football MVP (not to brag, of course; just establishing my hillbilly creds).

Howdy, neighbor — maybe we’ll run into each other at a Smokies ganme.

By Random

February 9, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

Sorry for the duplicate posts.

I’ve set my advanced internet options back to default, so it shouldn’t happen again.

Much.

8->

By nycbravesbaby

February 9, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this

Hi everyone. This is my first time posting. I couldn’t help but join this blog after reading what chipper had to say. Or as the mets fans here in newyork would say “LARRY” Man I can’t wait for baseball to start. I live in newyork and I am consistently being harassed,by my friends who are mets fans, about the santana trade. I can’t wait to get the games started and prove to my friends that the braves are just as good still, if not better, as their precious mets. Who happen to still recently own the worst collapse, or in my opinion the greatest collapse in sports history. I can’t wait to go to shea so I can watch Chipper and the braves bury the mets! Just like chipper, I like hearing the larry chants as well! GO BRAVES!

By Random

February 9, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this

No prob, TNRON — I’d already forgotten about it.

My youngest nephew graduates this year, but we may still make the home games next year.

By Adam Smith

February 9, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this

I second your comment nycbravesbaby! Can’t wait for baseball to start! The braves will always be better than the mets.

By Adam

February 9, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

Does Schilling need that 8 million so bad that he’s willing to put himself through hell for the next 6 months because he’s worried the Red Sox won’t honor his contract if he opts for surgery? He has to have enough money saved up to make his decision based on what he believes and not what the team believes.

By Bops

February 9, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

It used to bother me that the “experts” feel that the NL East is a 2 team race (Mets, Phillies) but the more I though about it, it’s a good thing. Its always easier to be the underdog-just ask the Giants. Come to think of it, the Nationals are going to have a much better team this year, so it will be a dog fight in the East. The Braves are not going to worry about what the “experts” have to say because they, better than anyother sports team in America, KNOW how to win. One superstar pitcher is not going to win you a championship. What have the Twins done lately with Santana? The Braves know how to get the most out of every player and that is what makes them so good.

By Bops

February 9, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

It used to bother me that the “experts” feel that the NL East is a 2 team race (Mets, Phillies) but the more I though about it, it’s a good thing. Its always easier to be the underdog-just ask the Giants. Come to think of it, the Nationals are going to have a much better team this year, so it will be a dog fight in the East. The Braves are not going to worry about what the “experts” have to say because they, better than anyother sports team in America, KNOW how to win. One superstar pitcher is not going to win you a championship. What have the Twins done lately with Santana? The Braves know how to get the most out of every player and that is what makes them so good.

By Roman Gal

February 9, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this

Here are some seasonal averages (via ESPN):

Runs- CJ: 111 PR: 98

2B- CJ: 36 PR: 34

HR- CJ: 33 PR: 7

RBI- CJ: 111 PR: 60

BB- CJ: 98 PR: 71

AVG.- CJ: .307 PR: .303

OBP.- CJ: .403 PR: .375

SLG.- CJ: .546 PR: .409

OPS- CJ: .949 PR: .784

ESPN also had that Chipper has played 11.7 years while Pete Rose played 21.99 years…take it however you wish.

By Unbiased_Blogger

February 9, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

Discipline doesn’t win playoff games - Home runs, RBIs & 10-gold gloves do. Third place will be the best they do and the Dodgers will be in the playoffs.

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this

Daybed, I think they’re sacrilege. (I’m only half-kidding)

By richbrave

February 10, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this

When I was a young man dated a beauty from Sevierville. Liked her much over the one I dated from Chattanooga. I believe Gladys went to school with Dolly Parton. At least she said so.

By Unbiased_Blogger

February 10, 2008 12:11 AM | Link to this

Discipline alone doesn’t win playoff games - Home runs, RBIs & 10-gold gloves do. Third place will be the best they do and the Dodgers will be in the playoffs.

By uga-brave

February 10, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this

DOB,

the blog has been vibrant lately, that is a tribute to you.

my future wife thinks we are all losers.

she cant unnderstand our connection.

though she likes my seaon tickets, 105 row 12 1-4.

actually the company i work for pays for them.

either way have you heard about the sun trust seats?

thats should be money that the braves could spend on talent.

GOLDMAN SACHS, decent place to work but they are not braves fans.

By Braveheart

February 10, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this

As to the switch hitting debate, there is no debate. It’s not a matter of opinion. It’s a matter of fact. Mickey Mantle is far and away the best swtich hitter of all time. Everyone else is just contending for second. It’s like Larry Bird showing up at the 3 point contest and asking the other players so, which one of you is coming in second?

The next three is interesting. I don’t think there can be any debate that Chipper Jones, Eddie Murray, and Pete Rose are the next three and that there is no one close to crashing that party. What order you put Rose, Eddie, and Chipper in is really just a matter of preference. I think I would put Chipper fourth for now until he achieves some of the magical milestones that Rose and Eddie achieved. We gotta keep our boy hungry.

But after Chipper, Eddie, and Rose, I think you have to go with Tim Raines, Roberto Alomar, Frankie Frisch, Bernie Williams, George Davis, Ted Simmons.

By uga-brave

February 10, 2008 12:51 AM | Link to this

lots of new bloggers,

still miss chrisklob, tonya, please come back.

i know you like squirrels, but i miss your objective point of view.

the blog needs BRAVEHEART, LEW, PALADIN, AND FLANGE, SCOOTS, AND THE KLOBBER.

just a thought?

By Nolie

February 10, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this

One thing I would say… while I have a lot of respect for sabermetrics—Bill James and his disciples are right more often than not—I have even more respect for “baseball men”, the quintessential example of which is Bobby Cox. If he believes in Yunel as a hitter, then that trumps any sabermetrician.SmokeyJoe

I believe in both, but lean a tad more towards the math when it’s a baseball man in the same organization making the rating. I mean they are high on Thorman who I have watched a lot in the minors and believe he will never be much. I am a Bobby fan so I hope he is right and not saying he isn’t. I just think that .325/.385 is gonna come down some. the question in my mind is how much? I just never count on a guy completely until he approaches 1000 ML ABs, and even then guys like Marcus can still surprise with bad years. I was a scout back in the 70s so I definitely believe in personal evaluation, but I also like to add the math. Hitting ability is separate from athleticism so you are really trying to rate two different abilities. Lots of great athletes never really learn to hit. I just believe in combining the two approaches. For some reason so many evaluators seem to rely mostly on one or the other. Anyway I’m certainly not predicting that Yunel will fail. as for the music…yes sir, its all great.Emmylou is my gal though.

By uga-brave

February 10, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this

BRAVEHEART,

i know you are dale jr guy, but i also know you are a tide fan. great recrutin hall the tide got.

really believe the dawgs are gonna right there. our schedule is a ball buster. the vols, and the tide play in athens next year.

we have road games against, south carolina, arizonia state, LSU, florida in JAX, AUBURN, and kentucky.

WE GOT A NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM, but a non championship schedule.

By uga-brave

February 10, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this

BRAVEHEART,

i know you are dale jr guy, but i also know you are a tide fan. great recrutin hall the tide got.

really believe the dawgs are gonna right there. our schedule is a ball buster. the vols, and the tide play in athens next year.

we have road games against, south carolina, arizonia state, LSU, florida in JAX, AUBURN, and kentucky.

WE GOT A NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM, but a non championship schedule.

By Nolie

February 10, 2008 1:20 AM | Link to this

Roman Gal , the rankings of Rose and Chipper are debatable as Pete was more of a pure hitter versus the power hitter that Chipper is.Coach

then why does Chipper have a higher BA? Rose’ accomplishment are due in large part to longevity at a high level. Chipper does hit for a fair difference in HR totals but his other numbers BA/OBP are very even across the board. more so than most SHers. I rate it Mantle(cause of his playing for so long in so much pain), Murray and Chipper right now, with Chipper having a fair shot at #2 if he can stay healthy and productive for 4 or 5 more years. Fun to talk about anyway

By N8

February 10, 2008 1:32 AM | Link to this

“ESPN also had that Chipper has played 11.7 years while Pete Rose played 21.99 years…take it however you wish”

I see where you are going with that, but I’ve never understood HOW people (including the HOF voters), can “dis-credit” somebody for playing so long, or too long, when putting up numbers.

Clearly, Chipper is a GREAT player. The fact that he’s had some freak injuries take away some crucial playing time, is part of the game.

Is it fair? Nope. But tell that to Bo Jackson.

One of the things that Pete Rose SHOULD be commended for, is for being AVAILABLE to play so many years, while playing ALL OUT, as he did.

Guys like Don Sutton (who eventually got the nod), Blyleven, and Niekro have always had the knock of: “Yeah, they put up numbers….but they played FOREVER!”.

Good for them. It’s like Bonderman, Maroth, and Robertson in 2005 for the Tigers. They combined for 35 wins, but ALSO combined for 43 losses.

Tigers management OBVIOUSLY saw something in those guys to KEEP running them back out there to rack up all those losses.

Nolan Ryan had 324 wins, along with 294 losses. I don’t think people get how GOOD somebody has to be, to be “allowed” to stick around long enough to accumulate that many losses.

Chipper should not get punished for time that he’s missed, while still racking up HOF numbers. But in the same breath a guy like Rose should not be “punished” for playing for over two decades at a high level (ok, only about 18 of those were at a high level - but at age 43 he STILL managed to hit .286, while only striking out 20 times….AMAZING).

Anyhow. Just my two cents at 12:27 AM CDT. LOL!

By Nolie

February 10, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this

Roman Gal , the rankings of Rose and Chipper are debatable as Pete was more of a pure hitter versus the power hitter that Chipper is.Braveheart

You’re pretty much right, those three are arguable depending a lot on how you view the game . It will be interesting to keep an eye on Berkman over the coming years as his first 8 full seasons have been very strong..300/412/.559. OPS+ of 146 . all but BA higher than Chippy’s.

By uga-brave

February 10, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this

N8,

your two cents are always good.

your opinion is always good my friend.

dont worry about any detracors, you always make sense.

By Lew

February 10, 2008 1:49 AM | Link to this

UGABrave-I’m still here. I’ve been working on Chipper’s deer painting. Now I’m going to bed. Good night.

By Braveheart

February 10, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this

Sir, can you raise your right hand. Mr, McNamee, do you swear to tell the truth, THE WHOLE TRUTH, and nothing but the truth, so help you God?

Presumably, McNamee was sworn in by George Mitchell and swore to tell THE WHOLE TRUTH.

Did this physical evidence with the syringes constitute telling THE WHOLE TRUTH?

Did informing Mitchell that not only did Clemens and Pettite use but so did Rocket’s wife not constitute telling THE WHOLE TRUTH?

They why was he not forthcoming about that with Mitchell? Don’t you think Mitchell would have liked to have known those two things since Mitchell was supposedly trying to be as accurate and thorough as possible?

Mitchell defended his report by saying that McNamee had no reason to lie because if he was not forthcoming about everything he was going to jail?

Did McNamee fully appreciate that? Because. sorry, George, it seems like McNamee did lie to you - McNamee committed lies of omission by not telling you the WHOLE TRUTH.

Either that or McNamee is lying now about these two details.

Missing out on these two key details just renews my concerns about how fair. accurate, and thorough Mitchell was in his questioning and investigative techniques

By Roman Gal

February 10, 2008 2:13 AM | Link to this

I agree that Mantle is far and away the best switch hitter in MLB history thus far.

If Hoss is able to play for another 5 years putting up his career numbers, here’s what he can accomplish:

Hits-3022

2B-605

HR-551

RBI-1854

BB-1642

That’s pretty darn good. All he needs is some insect repellent so he can kill all them darn injury bugs…pesky little boogers.

By uga-brave

February 10, 2008 2:15 AM | Link to this

lew,

you deserve to be the most commisioned painter on the blog.

you get it, keep giving all the trolls hell. YOU ARE A DAMN GOOD DAWG.

i always love your posts. you good hippie. i know you loved YUDY’S great place to matriculate.

i loved athen’s lived in a a frat house 320 south lumpkin on the corner of wray street. right across from gilbert health center.

wish i could get the way back button.

By uga-brave

February 10, 2008 2:21 AM | Link to this

cmon braveheart,

do you believe the rocket is innocent or guilty?

By Braveheart

February 10, 2008 2:32 AM | Link to this

ugabrave, i think rocket is as guilty as sin. the point is more that mitchell was not as fair, accurate and thorough in his questioning and investigate techniques as he wants us to believe and McNamee did indeed lie despite supposedly not having any reason to lie. Lies by omission are still lies. He swore to tell THE WHOLE TRUTH.

By nycbravesbaby

February 10, 2008 2:49 AM | Link to this

I must have missed something, which is rare when it comes to the braves. How did chipper come to be known as hoss?

By uga-brave

February 10, 2008 3:00 AM | Link to this

braveheart,

while i agree with just about everything you just said, there is the possibility that mcnamra is full of it.

look i think roger has a monster ego, but why is he putting out there for all of idiots to debate?

never liked him, he threw that bat at piazza. but he has a lot to lose .

i gotta hunch he did it, but he will never admit it.

how many guys retire, then dont. he loves the spotlight. loves the attenion. i never thought he was that good anyways.

well thats not right he had his moments, had pro

By uga-brave

February 10, 2008 3:07 AM | Link to this

as far as the rocket is concerned,\

he is what he is, he is no maddux, nor a glavine. but the dude always had a great slider. i for one believe, he might be getting railroaded.

By Nolie

February 10, 2008 4:49 AM | Link to this

he is what he is, he is no maddux, nor a glavine. but the dude always had a great slider. i for one believe, he might be getting railroaded.UGA

who knows for sure other than Roger9and mayne Mac)? I for one believe that he is guilty and I have thought that for years with the way his career has gone. But what has he got to lose? It will be almost totally impossible to prove that he did9or didn’t) after 7 years so he might as well throw all his effort into trying to convince us that he didn’t. My bigger interest is did his wife really shoot-up as Mac says she did.?? Does Mrs. Kotsay or Mrs. Benson??? Inquiring minds wanna know!J/K

By Niels Boor

February 10, 2008 7:43 AM | Link to this

uga-brave: “as far as the rocket is concerned, he is what he is, he is no maddux, nor a glavine.”

Yeah, right, buddy — anybody outside the 30000 — 31000 zip code range would say he’s twice Maddux and Glavine put together.

I’m not sayin’ they’re right, my friend, but them’s the facts, ma’am. Just the facts.

And Nolie — who the effin’ aitch cares what the friggin’, fuggin’ aitch you think, when you so wilfully and ignorantly condemn a man without any facts, only innuendo and supposition.

You’re quite some piece of work, you really are. (Your and idiot.)

PS: And who cares who did steroids (“PEDs”), anyway? Only a bunch of self-righteous judgement freaks, in my opinion. Why don’t you all go off in a corner and judge each other — that’ll keep you occupied through the “millenium”.

Jerks.

By TommyP

February 10, 2008 7:55 AM | Link to this

TNRon/Random: I, too, might be relocating to the 37918 area this summer. I’d prefer to live in a surrounding area but will probably have to settle in Knoxville. I’m a teacher/coach so am looking at perhaps Oak Ridge or Alcoa? Good choices?????

I hate the way Bisher paints Hampton in that article. The guy has had terrible luck but no sense in rehashing the money he’s earning. He’s trying and has been trying all along. Hampton seems to be one of the truly good guys in the sport. Just cursed with bad luck.

Starting to watch more college basketball nowadays since football is done. Can’t wait for the NFL combine…anyone know when that gets started? My team Maryland is looking very strong. My other team, Georgia, is looking very tired. Fighting hard but….

Can we be certain that Brandon Jones will be on the roster???? I just ask because of the backup CF situation should Kotsay need a rest or get injured.

By nOLIE

February 10, 2008 8:10 AM | Link to this

And Nolie — who the effin’ aitch cares what the friggin’, fuggin’ aitch you think, when you so wilfully and ignorantly condemn a man without any facts, only innuendo and supposition.NIELS

Boy are you full of it lil’ Bubba. I’m not saying any more than anyone else who believes he is guilty, which is most of the posters that I see on most of the boards. You got the man-luv for the Roger-Dodger guy? Must have the crude and childish way that you responded. Braveheart said as musch , why not jump his bones too lil’ man? LOL. pathetic

By Random

February 10, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this

Apropos of Nothing:*

I have amassed 32,629 points on Vegas style 3-card draw Microsoft Windows 98 Solitaire, in the last two days!

Does anybody know if this is some kind of record?

I know, I know — who cares?

Okay; I’m just sayin’, all right?

• PS: With no regard to self-indulgent Piers Anthony, who imo got too big for his britches and then ditched his editor. As far as I can recall, Mute was his first book with no editorial oversight, and he told a mildly interesting story in 350-400 pages which could have been told in 150. And then, his onanistic reissue of But What of Earth — my G0d, I’ve never seen such paranoid self-congratulation and self-celebration since Heinlein’s Grumblings from the Grave.

Here’s to all good editors who squelch their egotistical writers’ worst indulgences!!!

PPS: after that little rant, I realized that Sir Apropos of Nothing was by Peter David, not Piers Anthony. Ice and idiot.

Nevertheless, it needed saying.

By Random

February 10, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

**TommyP —

GD, definitely stay outside the downwind plume of Oak Ridge.

And with global warming, the more altitude, the better.

Don’t want to be an alarmist, but … … .

You know.

By William

February 10, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this

never liked him, he threw that bat at piazza.

I actually loved it when Clemens did that. I never liked Piazza. I don’t know to make of this whole steroids thing with Clemens. One minute I think he is guilty as sin and the next I’m not so sure.

Has anyone heard any rumors about Bonds on where he might end up? Well, besides JAIL!

By Niels Boor

February 10, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

NoLiE, nOlIe, NOLIE, nolie, whatever —

Sure, why not? Go with the ad hominem argument, why don’t you, since you’re so obviously full of $#!t. That would seem to be your only recourse. (If your friends jumped off a clif, would you … No, I take that back — I can’t imagine any scenario in which you would actually have friends.)

You said something stupid and (imo) unsupp0ortable — why should I care who all else has said it?

If you can’t back it up, just sit down and shut up.

Nowuddimeen, “Bubba”?

Your and idiot.

By richbrave

February 10, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

Rocket/Bonds. Doesn’t matter if they took banned substances. Only matters what they said to Congress. Federal rap is the pitch-count now.

By nOLIE

February 10, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

You said something stupid and (imo) unsupp0ortable — why should I care who all else has said it?

Well at least you are living up to your lat name, lil’ Bubba.Clemens is an obvious cheater, even turned his wife on to it I read.LOL. You know the family that drugs together, hugs together. You’re throwing a lota anger around too,Boor. Like his bat incident, just can’t control that rage huh?

By nOLIE

February 10, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

Rocket/Bonds. Doesn’t matter if they took banned substances. Only matters what they said to Congress. Federal rap is the pitch-count now.richbrave

my sentiments exactly. Who cares? I dont. but I’d still Big Clemmy stuck a rocket in his butt and not his pocket, Bonds might be proved a perjurer, but it’s gonna be tough. Clemens is using the perfect approach. Use your star-power to intimidate your accuser. Very little chance that they will ever prove anything. Certainly the recent ‘evidence’ presented by Mac is too old and tainted to ever see a courtroom.

By lurker guy

February 10, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

Dave, Love the blog - THX. First post, I am one of those lurkers who never posts. I do not read every comment from every blogger - I scan down looking for your comments and those of a few other regular bloggers. Would it be possible to flag Chippers login so that his posts also show up with a blue heading (like yours) or another distinct color so they are easy to find in a scan of the blog. It is not that I do not value all opinions here - but wife, two kids, FT job and fixer upper house leave me only a few moments per day to enjoy the blog. Thx.

By Random

February 10, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

TommyP —

I’ve now taken the time to actually look at a map of zip code 37918. I would recommend neither Alcoa (‘cept it’s near the airport) nor Oak Ridge.

I still stand by my previous advice.

However, to make it a little more personal (and to up the verisimilitude), I’ll tell you, I live approximately equidistant between my agency’s offices in Asheville, NC, and Knoxville, TN.

I’ve beeen praying to G0sh for the last fifteen years that I would get reassigned to one or the other (I’m currently working in Smyrna, GA) — about an hour’s commute either way from my Smoky Mountain house.

Today, however, I would so strongly recommend that you live within a bike ride of where you’re gonna work (if possible), that nothing I or anyone else would have recommended to you hardly matters.

Just stay out of the Oak Ridge plume (number one) and as high as possible, while still being able to walk or ride a bike to work — that’s my best and last advice.

Me? I hope to retire soon. Please, g0d.}

PS: Bisher? Bisher???

Furman “Apatosaur” Bisher chimes in with his frets about the Braves’ bullpen, so I figure we’re A-OK in that department.

Then he says he’s happy with the Braves’ catcher situation, so I gotta figure we’ve gotta keep both Javy and BPena, with CSammons ready at a moment’s notice in the minors (the closer, the better).

8-)

By Lew

February 10, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

UGABrave-Not too sure about the Way Back machine, Dude. I had some good times in Athens, but was a quite typical (if I can ever be considered typical) grad student with a wife and newborn son. I was broke, in debt and actually painted for food at times. Not too sure I would like to have to go down that road again.

I did get to see every game Herschel played between the hedges and got to know Pete Buck before REM even made it out of playing local pizza places. It was a pretty good time to live in Athens-unless you were TK Harty, that is.

By beekay

February 10, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

Shocking news alert …our buddy Craig wilson was just picked up by the Nati Reds…whose next Raul Mondesi?

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

lurkerguy, I’ll talk to Chipper about it next week when he arrives (he usually gets there early) at spring training. if he plans to post with any regularity, and he would agree to having his screen name designated by a different color, i’d do that. for sure. it would also eliminate the need to monitor constantly to make sure no one else is posting and pretending to be him. so it makes a lot of sense, if he’d agree to it. we’ll see.

By Overlord

February 10, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

DAP

I would rank them like this:

a. chipper

b. Rose

c. Mantle

d. murray

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

I have amassed 32,629 points on Vegas style 3-card draw Microsoft Windows 98 Solitaire, in the last two days! Does anybody know if this is some kind of record? random

Random, I have no idea what that game is or how good that score is. But I used all seven of my letters last night in one Scrabble turn, on the word “bargains” (the b was already down, and I had a blank letter that helped).

That gave me 72 points on one turn (with the 50-point bonus and a double-points letter), and assured a second consecutive lopsided win for me against my girlfriend, moving us into a tie in our ongoing epic battle.

By jidady

February 10, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

Shamus, I’m very late in replying, but I love love love Shawn Mullins. I have kept a TiVo recording of him and Larry Jon Wilson on Turner South’s Live at the Bluebird for about five years now.

He was one of the best voices in the industry. I could listen to Shimmer all day and all night.

By jidady

February 10, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

I’m a teacher/coach so am looking at perhaps Oak Ridge or Alcoa? Good choices?????

If you have your choice, I would recommend Oak Ridge over Alcoa. It’s such a well designed town that navigation is a breeze and you are only a few minutes away from anything you might need. Alcoa is a beautiful area but the problem with living there is that you will have to drive on Alcoa Highway, which remains a death trap even after all this time in trying to fix it.

Bearden and Farragut are the best schools in the area if you can target them, though. That’s also the preferred area of town. PS: If you are looking to move here and buy a new home, I highly recommend Saddlebrook. Their developments are the gold standard.

By jidady

February 10, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

If you are playing Scrabulous online with the significant other, don’t like to lose and are the unscrupulous type, this is the link to bookmark:

Link: Like magic, it is

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

The switch-hitter ranking debate is interesting. Very difficult because Rose is such a different hitter than most of the others.

I’d definitely put Mickey Mantle first, but after that I think you can make legit cases for Chipper, Eddie Murray or Pete Rose in any order for the next three, with perhaps Ted Simmons, Tim Raines and Reggie Smith from the modern era not far behind them. And don’t forget Roberto Alomar.

Frankie Frisch was from an entirely different era (played from 1919-1937), and it’s difficult weighing his stats against these other guys. But he had a .316 lifetime average and .369 OBP when OBP wasn’t stressed like it is today, and how ‘bout this: Frisch struck out 16 or fewer times in THIRTEEEN DIFFERENT SEASONS. He had 272 career strikeouts in 9,112 at-bats.

(Even more amazing, DiMaggio had only 369 career stirkeouts while hitting 361 homers in 6,821 at-bats. Freakin’ astounding. I know we were talking switch-hitters, but I just had to throw that Joe D stat in there after noting Frisch’s low strikeouts.)

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Shamus, I was just playing Mullins’ “9th Ward Pickin’ Parlor” CD a few days ago. Very good.

By Roper

February 10, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Another one of these long time readers, first time writers.

DOB what X album(s) would you recommend. I listened to a bit of their stuff on itunes and it sounds cool. Any other punk meets country outfits you would suggest? Long live Mike Watt. err, and Chipper too…

By kdbanks

February 10, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Really enjoyed the Braves Preview from this morning’s paper. I’m really hoping for (but not counting on) Hampton to be able to pitch for us this year. I love watching that guy on the mound.

Thanks!

kdbanks

By thisandthat

February 10, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

first off, the Braves TV debate is tiresome. If you can’t get the Braves on TV, get extra innings. If you can not spend $139 on your team, well, your “fanhood” is in question anyways. That is less than $2 a game. TBS did Braves fans a favor by keeping them on there for that long. Second, we need some more good hecklers at turner field. What is the general opinion of heckling amongst the bloggers? I’m talking about Wrigley Field type heckling, no cursing, just good disruptive tasteful heckling. Braves fans in general don’t seem to appreciate it at Turner Field. Maybe we could get together a heckle section or something. I want the Mets to hear it from us this season.

By Braveheart

February 10, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

the Braves TV debate is tiresome. If you can’t get the Braves on TV, get extra innings. If you can not spend $139 on your team, well, your “fanhood” is in question anyways. That is less than $2 a game.

thisandthat man, i think that is a bit harsh. i’m a single guy with not many responsibilities to anyone but myself, so I can plunk down that kind of cash with no problema. i also work out of my house, so it is convenient for me to justify paying that money. but most people are married, with kids, mortgage payments, rent payments, medical bills, insurance payments, car loans, student loans, Little Leagues they participate in and pay for, saving for retirement, saving for college, saving for a rainy day, random school stuff they need to pay for their kids that really add up after a while, and on and on and on.

at the end of the day, many folks who are diehard fans have little time and/or little money left over to watch every pitch of every game and to pay all that money to watch maybe at most 500 to 700 innings for the entire season.

Most fans are not like the diehard bloggers here. Most fans are really good fans but they don’t do much more than check out a few innings a night or every other night when time allows and they read the paper in the morning for the stats, boxscore, standings, game story, and random notes. They might never watch a game in its entirety the whole season until the playoffs.

and even most single people are too busy living their lives to justify wasting all that money to watch other people live their lives

and some folks are just flat out too poor. they don’t have much to entertain themselves besides television and sex because they can’t afford anything else. so, for them, they love being able to watch the braves without having to pay too much for it because it keeps them happy despite their dire straits.

That is after all one of the justifications for getting a professional sports team for the area. beyond just the pure economics and how it puts the name of your city on the map and conscience of the country and world, it is also an outlet to provide the locals in your region a distraction to keep them entertained. Happy poor people who are entertained and distracted with the Braves are less likely to commit crimes and are more likely to be a productive member of the workforce.

so, i don’t think it’s right to question people’s fanhood because they are unwilling to pay the cable company $139 in addition to the $100 or more dollars they are already paying the cable company every month for cable, internet, and a telephone connection.

By Steve McP

February 10, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

this and that - would have no problem with shelling out the bucks, but the blackout coverage for the Braves is huge. How does the MLB justifies blacking out NC when we are clearly not going to drive the 3 or 4 hours to get to games every day. Incidentally when checking the zip code black outs here in the west of NC we are also blacked out from Cincinnati games and they are a 6 hour drive from here.

I know that we were spoiled with TBS, but with that pulled the pay for view options are not really an option for most of us.

Maybe the Braves could launch their own TV service like the Yankees, sure it would be popular.

E-mailing MLB is a waste of time as you just get a standard reply saying how good Fox and ESPN are and black outs are there to protect the teams.

By AdirondackDave

February 10, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

Braveheart — Very well put. Thanks.

By McFann

February 10, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

DOB—

Scrabble’s a great game!! I’ve got one of those “Scrabble Grams” desk calendars, and that thing is a lot of fun. Never used all seven letters in a real game, though.

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

Braveheart: right on.

kidbanks: thanks.

Roper: Los Angeles is their best album, in my opinion. An absolute classic that anyone into edgy rock/punk must own. But if you get the two-disc Make The Music Go Bang, you’ll get a great overview and more of what X was about. That’s one of the better best-of compilations for any band that I’ve seen available.

By Goodoleboy58

February 10, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

The switch hitting debate is a good one but how bout switch hitting duos? Where would Chipper/Tex rank in that category… I could use another 4 years of that tandem to make up my mind haha..

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 10, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

DOB - you ever play on scrabulous? have you played Super Scrabble yet? that game is awesome — 8 more triple word spaces, 4 quadruple word spaces…lots more scrabble.

By Goodoleboy58

February 10, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

I also play the scrabble and honest to goodness one time I was playing at at the beginning of the game the first letters I pulled out and placed on the little holder thing spelled TRILOGY lol it was crazy … anyway thats my scrabble story now you know me lol

By Robert

February 10, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

Pictures of syringes and fantastic stories about injecting Mrs Clemens with dope?

Everyone repeat in monotone as DOB recites off the page handed to him by his masters at the AJC. “I believe Brian McNamee is telling the whole truth. I further believe that Bobby Cox belongs in the HOF because he is a great manager. Roger Clemens cant hold a candle to Greg Maddux or Tom Glavine. I will buy 2 pairs of season ticjets this year, and 13 $6 hot dogs at every game”

By Overlord

February 10, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

DOB I put Rose 2nd because he is baseball himself. I didnt get a chance to watch him very much because i was young when he was with the red machine, but i saw him play most of his 30`s i think, and there are not many players i can think of that played baseball like he did. His aggressiveness and approach of the game is 2nd to none. He was so exciting to watch play and go head first….. just another level. There is no player that has ever hustled harder than him. There sure are some at his level but none on top of him. Jeter, ozzie, maddux, rickey henderson to name a few. The way he flew in the air when going head first….. i have never seen that again.

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

Robert, if that ignorant garbage is all you got, then take it elsewhere. Just nobody interested much here anymore because you’re a boor … and boring. And also have no class, as evidenced by more of your barnyard sexual references that have been removed and will likely get you banned.

As for Roger Clemens, his accomplishments put him far ahead of Tom Glavine in my book, even if you discount the latter years of questionable performance enhancement.

I really don’t know how much of the truth McNamee is telling. I do find him more credible than Clemens, but who knows, maybe that’ll change when I hear or see more (I doubt it, but you never know).

Unlike you in whatever job it is you manage to hold down, my bosses don’t tell me what to think. And it’s quite obvious form the bile you consistently spew towards me and others here that you don’t have such freedom and satisfaction in your own life. That’s unfortunate.

But it doesn’t make your absurd opinions any more relevent or plausible. Find another blog if all you’ve got is your Pavlovian response and tired, redundant statements.

Oh, and sorry you chose the wrong hero (Clemens). The fact you’d find it easier to defend him today and put it up to the light right now, with all we’ve heard, and expect folks here to hold him in higher esteem than, say, Bobby Cox, is completely laughable. Just like most of your posts.

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Oh, and if you wonder why I’m not responding to your inevitable bitter retorts to my above post, it’s not because you’re making any sense, it’s because I’m about to ride up to the motorcycle show in Gwinnett County.

Oh, and the fact that I only respond to about one out of every 20 of your tired, one-note posts anyway.

By David-ATL14

February 10, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

DOB

I want to make another TV suggestion for your viewing pleasure.

Another gem of a series on AMC titledBreaking Bad.

Done by one of the people originally involved in Mad men on the same Network.

Nothing like Mad Men at all, but a quality TV series. Very very dark.

2 episodes have already aired. 3rd episode is tonight at 10:PM.

I noticed they have advertised within the show about episodes being available ON DEMAND

Well worth the effort DOB.

By woogidy

February 10, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

all typed so eloquently DOB.

By TexasBrave

February 10, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

DOB - As much as I have disagreed over the seasons with some of Bobby’s managerial choices I find it very offensive what Robert wrote in his 1:42. A man is entitled to his own opinions, and a couple of times I have agreed with. But that post has no place on this blog and should be removed. I also believe that he should be warned that those types of posts will not be tolerated in the future or face possible banishment from the blog.

Surely I am not the only one of this great blog that feels that way.

By ippississiM

February 10, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

I just noticed something: a certain no-good lefty pitcher whose name it pains me to think of is on the Rockies 40-man roster, listed #6 on their depth chart. Quite a contrast to what the Braves have going on this year, huh?

By McFann

February 10, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

Wait to go, DOB!! Great post, Chief.

By Niels Boor

February 10, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

nolie: “my sentiments exactly. Who cares? I dont. but I’d still Big Clemmy stuck a rocket in his butt and not his pocket,”

Hey, Bubba — how ya doin’?

Let me ask you a question — is English your second language, or your third?

Whatever. Keep tryin’ — we’re rootin’ for ya.

Oh, and you are so right — unproven allegations of felonious behavior are a real “LOL”.

Your still and idiot.

lurker guy: “I do not read every comment from every blogger - I scan down looking for your comments and those of a few other regular bloggers. Would it be possible to flag Chippers login so that his posts also show up with a blue heading (like yours) or another distinct color so they are easy to find in a scan of the blog. It is not that I do not value all opinions here - but wife, two kids, FT job and fixer upper house leave me only a few moments per day to enjoy the blog.”

Dude, you need to become “searcher guy” — you, know Edit-Find-“David”; Edit-Find-“Kno” (match whole word only).

I can’t believe you’re actually scrolling down — that is so lame. Do you even have a computer, or are you just bluffing?

By TexasBrave

February 10, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Even with Firefox, by the time I get my suggestion up to DOB he has already vanquished the tired post of Robert. Just proves I seriously need a new computer. Thanks, DOB

By TommyP

February 10, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Random: I’m clueless as to what you’re talking about with Oak Ridge. I’m talking of working there, not living there.

Same with Alcoa. Those two school systems seem to be about the highest paying in Tenn. and you have to go to the money in Tenn. ‘cause they pale in comparison to Georgia. I’m taking a pay cut no matter what but want to minimize it.

As far as living, I’ll be living in Knoxville. That’s set in stone.

By McFann

February 10, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

C’mon, Niels, plenty of us scroll through the blog.

Lovin’ it. Robert’s 1:42 post was removed. Once again, justice triumphs. Thanks, DOB!!

By Roper

February 10, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

DOB Thanks for the recommendation about Los Angeles. I just walked down to Wax ‘n Fax and bought it along with London Calling (only on a blog would I admit i don’t have any clash) and Fugazi’s 13 Songs (high time i replaced the tape I lost about ten years ago).

About to dump them all on the ipod and go on a run.

By David-ATL14

February 10, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

Nice stinging rebuke for the old bitter one.

Well done DOB, well done.

By Niels Boor

February 10, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

You know how sometimes you can clench your teeth so hard it feels like your face will explode, and the cold, bitter tears run down your cheeks as you realize that you really can’t bite through the roof of your skull? And you know that’s the time to bring the gun to your temple?

x

x

x

Yeah, I went to church with my Mom this morning — shoot me now, please.

(Rather, shoot me then — I’m okay now.)

:-|

PS: I know, I know! — Jeff Francis, right?

By 22oz

February 10, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

I once won a game of 2-suit Spider Solitaire in under 100 moves. I believe THAT is a record.

By nycbravesbaby

February 10, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

I’m with you William. One minute I think Roger is completely guilty then the next minute I think he is possibly innocent. Either way I am sick of hearing about it! I am just glad it isn’t one of our beloved braves, for example John Smoltz, who is going through this!

By Hunk Erdown

February 10, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

I have been unable to judge which one is telling the truth- McNamaree or Clemens, but this latest deal with mac saying that he can prove it with syringes and bottles stinks of set-up to me. It would be nothing to take a syringe that he used on Clemens for b-12 and doctor it with hgh or whatever to make it look like he used it on Clemens. Additionally, if he had such a “smoking gun” why is it just now coming to light? Surely he would have offered this information to the Senator in the midst of swearing in and all the testimony he gave… You mean to tell me that he had “the goods” the whole time and, now months later, he comes up with a “Oh, and by the way, I’ve had proof the whole time and just didn’t mention it yet?” IMO, this does more to destroy his credibility than help it. Sounds to me like he had an old bag with some old syringes and B-12 vials in it, that he didn’t mention because it backed up Clemens, and now that Clemens is truly challenging his honesty and getting his pic taken with all the Reps and Senators that he has become desperate enough to try to doctor up some evidence. You know good and damn well that if he had real proof it would have surfaced way before now.

I don’t have a dog in the fight, and don’t know if Clemens cheated or not, but this “evidence” stinks to me and just like everything else, subjective to trusting someone’s word, for there’s truly no way to tell “when” the syringes were comtaminated with hgh/steroids, could’ve been done last week with syringes previously used on Clemens for something legit. If he went to all the trouble to preserve it as evidence, it makes absolutely no sense for Mac to withhold it during his testimony only to save it for now. Looks more like he’s scared he is gonna be found to be a liar and has doctored something up at the last minute.

By TK

February 10, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

TommyP I live in the 37923 area. Good luck with the move and job. Both Alcoa and Maryville are both nice schools. btw Maryville just won their 4th straight state football championship. The seniors on that team were never beaten. That would be something to brag about “We were never beaten in high school.” DOB Thanks for the post on KJ. I think he will improve even more this year…at least I hope because he is on my fantasy team. He worked so hard to help the Braves in an area of need last year! Thank you KJ.

By Hunk Erdown

February 10, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

Plus… If MacNamare was gonna save some evidence to someday put a nail in Clemens’ coffin he could have easily used some type of recording devices and “really” got the goods on him. If he hung on to some syringes that Clemens used for Steroids, there could be no other reason for it than to someday use it against him, and if that is the case he would have gotten him on hidden video so that there could be absolutely no doubt, anybody can doctor up a needle but tape don’t lie, just ask Nixon.

By woogidy

February 10, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

neils, had me laughing out loud for at least 60 straight seconds. hilarious. I’ve been there before.

By justdoit

February 10, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

anyone know about Matt Bush? are the braves really interested in him and is he suppose to be a good prospect? starter or reliever ?

By Niels Boor

February 10, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

Yeah, McFann, I scroll, too — when I have time. I want to see who’s new, who’s old with (surprise, surprise) something interesting to say, etc.

When I don’t have time, I do the Edit-Find (on This Page) two-step.

First, I search for “David” — surprisingly enough, there are few false positives here. David Wright, of course, and David-ATL14 — both easily enough skipped. (No offense, David-ATL14.)

As I do that, I search backwards for anyone whom DOB has had the wherewithal to specifically respond to, then continue searching down for “David”.

Then (of course) I search for my own nom de byte (as if everyone else didn’t do the same!). I certainly would want to respond to anyone who might have addressed me, as well as to admire wy own webs of sparkly word-stuff.

;->

Then depending on the time I have, I search for Shaun, N8, Coach, DAP, chrisklob (RIP), richbrave, uga=brave, TennesseePaul, TNRON, and last but not not least, McFann. (I really don’t ever have to search for Lew — he’s effin’ ubiquitous.)

If all you do is scroll — not even searching for your own handle — you ARE lame indeed. In thought and in deed.

No offense, kid.

Texas Brave — if you don’t like a post, don’t read it.

If it’s too late for that advice (and it always is, ‘til you recognize which bloggers to skip), either ignore or engage. That is, just ignore ‘em, or argue with ‘em.

Do not — please, DO NOT — cry to mammy AJC or Uncle DOB to censor it. Stuff that may be too much for your mirror may be just the grist for my own grindstone. (To mix the metaphors a wee bit.)

Grow up, baby. At the very least, please do not presume to request censorship or banishment of anyone for my sake.

Thanks.

By TexasBrave

February 10, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

Niels Boor - first of all how do I know whether or not I am going to like a post unless I read it? Normally I do skip Roberts posts because I know what the subject matter is going to be. However, since it is a slow blog day I broke down and read something of Roberts just like I am sure you did the same of me. That’s fine no problem.

No crying here. However, I would not wish what Robert wrote about Bobby on anyone, not even you. The fact is that DOB took the post off even before I got my post up so DOB must have felt the same way I and a few others did (except for you).

You are right about one thing though. I should not have requested banishment, that was very little of me.

By woogidy

February 10, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

Neils, agree with you 100% about the few who are inspired to involve themselves with the censorship of the blog. If it is truly over the top crazy offensive, one thing, but I had a post deleted yesterday that I didn’t think was bad at all, tasteless, but not crazy offensive. The dude was 83. He did what 83 year old people sometimes do, and he was a mets fan, and I made a comment of his team assisting in his expiration, but it was a joke. I would have thought it was funny if someone had said the same thing about me when I die. Some didn’t. But, I guess with the new found popularity of the blog, we must sell out to the masses and keep it all in good taste. I say skip it and on to the next one if I don’t like it. We all grew up in different backgorunds and are probably all kinds of races, so some things that offend “Billy Bible” do not necessarily offend anyone else. So essentially the idea of censoring someones post is usually trying to please everyone, which will never happen.

By Lew

February 10, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

Now, I’ve been called many things on this blog, but Ubiquitous?

By Metropolitan Man

February 10, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

Rumor has it that Hampton is back in the game…..so now you have a 4th starter. Congradulations!!!!

LETS GO METS!!!

By Hunk Erdown

February 10, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

I won’t beleive Hampton is back until I’ve seen him pitch 3-4 games.

By N8

February 10, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

“Oh, and the fact that I only respond to about one out of every 20 of your tired, one-note posts anyway.”

Well, there you have it folks. DOB has “officially” referred to Roberts’ posts, in the same manner that the keyboard part in Flock of Seagull’s “I Ran” is discussed.

I thought his posts sounded familiar. :-)

By William

February 10, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

DOB

I saw the info about Spring Training. I plan on going down to Orlando to watch a few workouts. Is there a normal time slot for the workouts??

By William

February 10, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

I agree with wanting to see Hampton make 3 or 4 quality regular season starts before buying into him being “healthy.” Don’t get me wrong I really hope he is healthy!!! We need him.

By Roman Gal

February 10, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this

I read something interesting on MLB.com about fantasy players. Talking about Tom Glavine they said the veteran leftie will have a tougher time picking up victories in Atlanta, where he won’t receive nearly as much offensive or defensive help as he did with the Mets.

I’m not sure why they think that he won’t recieve as much offensive support with the Braves. It seems to me that we have a pretty balanced offense and our defense isn’t so bad that it would make him have an ERA near 5.

By Chris Iafolla

February 10, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

Top to bottom, the Braves have the fewest holes on their team. The Santana trade brings the Mets a top-flight starter, but let’s remember, he only plays every fifth game.

I predict a 95 win season for the Braves.

www.heardinthecheapseats.com

By mike

February 10, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this

Roman Gal, I agree with you 100 percent. I saw that a few days ago and it made no sense to me. First of all the Braves and Mets had the exact same team batting average in 2007 (.275) with the Braves scoring six more runs in the season and that should be improved upon having Texiera for the whole year, K Johnson, Escobar, Francoeur, and Mccann’s continued improvement, and eliminating Andruw Jones from the Lineup. On Defense I can’t see how the Braves this year are worse than the Mets 07 defense. Chipper is more steady at third (although not as athletic or as much range) than Wright, comparing Texiera to Delgado is a joke, as is comparing the corner outfielders on both sides with the Braves fairing much better on offensively and defensively. K Johnson is far superior to the Mets opening day second baseban last year (Jose Valentin), and I honestly believe that Escobar will be every bit as good as Reyes defensively. The Mets obviously had a defensive advantage in Beltran over Kotsay but I can’t see that difference accounting for Glavine having an era near five. That assessment is a joke

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

Williams, they’re on the field from about 9 a.m. to about noon, give or take a half-hour at start or finish

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

David-ATL, I’ve been watching Breaking Bad and love it. But it’s maddening how slowly they’ve unveiled new episodes. I mean, TWO in a month.

Good to know a new one is coming out.

Oh, and if you’re not watching The Wire, you and everyone else should be.

By BabyGoatEater

February 10, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe anyone actually believes that Tom Glavine have less of a chance at victory in Atlanta than NY. Every position is close except CF,SS and RF,C, and even those aren’t that skewed defensively. I see no way that Glavine wins more games in NY (pressure ect) than in ATL. Now I still have my questions on how effective Glavine will be. I consider Glavine a hall of famer. I hope he wins 13-15 games this year. i still have my doubts. The same doubts about Smoltz to be as dominate as he was last year. They both seem to prove me wrong every year, so probably about 6 weeks from now we’ll all know what version of Glavine and Smoltz showed up. If I had to bet I’d say Glavine 13-9 4.31 . Smoltz 13-7 3.86.

By BabyGoatEater

February 10, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

Whens the new House start? I saw 1 new one but then …poof….nothing for a few weeks…

By JJMB

February 10, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

Clemens = guilty Robert = right about Cox Robert = annoying DOB = a shill that portrays himself as a crusading “everyman” DOB = equally annoying as Robert

By William

February 10, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

DOB

Thanks for the info!

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

Babygoateater, there was a new House that aired immediately after the Super Bowl, then another new one two nights later. There’s only one new episode in the can, according to something I read last week. Until the strike is settled, gonna be reruns.

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this

William, if you want autographs I’d get there around 8 a.m., when some players are hanging out around dugout or coming in from batting cage, etc, before the workout starts.

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

JJMB = who cares?

No, what I meant to say was, JJMB = The Last Word. The Decider. The Wise One.

Ok, Morris Day and the Time are jamming on the Grammys right now. This is good stuff.

By Random

February 10, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

**woogidy — thanks, man.

I saw that link yesterday and I wish now that I had paused to check it out. Is it really gone now? (Yeah, I guess so — I just did a search for it.)

And thanks again — I do try, sometimes rather too obviously.

;-)

By Bravesfaninmetsland

February 10, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I was just reading some of your comments on peachtree so I have a question. this year with the Braves not on TBS how many games are on Peachtree and will they not be on the comcast cable baseball package I get?

By Randy S

February 10, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

How do they go from the Time to Rihanna and not Prince? That stage was primed for Purple Rain.

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

This Carolina-Clemson game is incredible, in the second OT. Clemson has got to feel absolutely cursed vs. UNC if the Tigers lose this one, after that OT loss earlier this season against the Heels.

For a while it sure looked like Carolina was gonna lose twice at home in five days.

By McFann

February 10, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

Hey, MetMan!! Haven’t read from you since we found out Chipper reads the blog. Were have you and your Met friends been, anyway?

Niels—how do you get this search-and-find thingy? Would like to know, but still like the old-school scroll method. Either way, give TaxasBrave a break, man.

Gotta go catch the rest of the only two worth while reality shows: Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and Iron Chef America.

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

Clemson led by 15 at one point, and by 11 at the half, and yet they’re still going to remain winless all-time in Chapel Hill.

Clemson is 0-53 at Chapel Hill. Just amazing.

By Austin

February 10, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

On another absoluetly unrelated topic.

Frank Caliendo does a mean Charles Barkey.

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

The Foo Fighters just rocked a bit, didn’t they? Them boys don’t just mail it in. And the orchestra somehow worked, even with Grohl’s screaming.

By Niels Boor

February 10, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave: “I would not wish what Robert wrote about Bobby on anyone, not even you.” (Thanks, I guess.)

I can appreciate that that is your judgment and valid to you, without even knowing what he wrote.

However, without knowing what he wrote, how can I make my own judgment, and respond according to my own values?

By TNRON

February 10, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

no the Mutts are managed by the guy who blew the biggest lead in HISTORY.The Braves are managed by a guy who won 14 divisions in a row.unprecedented in team sports history.Randolph will be gone by July as the scapegoat.and I will be laughing all the time because I predicted it here first.

By McFann

February 10, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

Niels Boor, Robert basically wrote that he heard a rumor that the Braves were out to “get” Bobby. Said they drew straws or something stupid like that. It made absolutely no sense because all the Braves players love Bobby a lot.

So TexasBrave had an entitlement to type that he greatly opposed Robert’s insane post.

By Niels Boor

February 10, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

“give TexasBrave a break, man”

Yes, dear. Sorry, TB.

8-)

Okay, McFann, from the top line menu (File, Edit, View, etc), select Edit.

From the Edit drop down menu (Cut, Copy, Paste, etc), select Find (on this Page).

In the Find what: pane of the Find dialog box, type in “Boor” — case INsensitive unless you specify otherwise.

Select Find Next to get a small sample of my sparkly webs of wordstuff. (Or possibly someone else’s rude and inarguable rebuttal of one of my own porcine pearls, if they didn’t misspell my name.)

You can start at the top (or in the middle) of the blog and go down, or at the bottom (or middle) and go up.

(This is all applicable specifically to MS Internet Explorer — don’t know what the corresponding tool would be for Netscape, Mozilla Firefox or other browsers — someone else here does, though, I’d wager.)

Know what else? Last week, I stumbled across a way to get the blog to load in like 2 seconds, even with 1000+ posts. You lose ALL graphics and pix — it’s just black text and blue links — but it’s FAST.

If I can ever figure out how I did it, I’ll let you know (if someone else doesn’t beat me to it.)

By BosnianBaller

February 10, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this

If you guys wanna see a new house episode go to you tube and type in mad tv house parody.It’s pretty funny.

By chucktown

February 10, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

It works in firefox too…..

Click on Edit Click on Find On This Page A task bar with a Search function will appear at the bottom of your screen. Type whatever you want to find and it will find it.

By Definition of and idiot

February 10, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

those with the dumbest, most easily skipped posts bantering back and forth to the interest of no one at all about the best way to skip other people’s posts

By Randy S

February 10, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

Herbie doing Gershwin. Yes, please.

By Niels Boor

February 10, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

McFann: “TexasBrave had an entitlement to type that he greatly opposed Robert’s insane post.”

Don’t get me wrong — I agree 100% with your assertion here.

But please also understand my position — I would hasve liked to have read the same post and formed my own opinion.

Thass all I’m sayin.

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

Man, that was a train-wreck performance by Amy Winehouse, huh? Talented lady, just hope she doesn’t go completely off the tracks….

And speaking of hell-raising, look who’s on stage now, The Killer, Jerry Lee, still hanging on….

By Duane

February 10, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

DOB - great work on the “10 Keys to Success” column in today’s issue. It certainly made the day at work far less painful once our ISP decided to take the day off.

My apologies if I missed it earlier, but did Julio receive a camp invite?

By David O'Brien

February 10, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

Duane, no he didn’t. At least not yet, and I haven’t heard his name mentioned at all this winter.

By Duane

February 10, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

Interesting. One would think Franco would receive a minor league contract an invite to a club’s spring training unless the general consensus is his bat has really slowed down. But he still had a .793 OPS against right-handed pitching last season. The Reds just gave Craig Wilson a minor league contract, so I am a bit surprised a team such as, say, the Yankees, haven’t given him a look.

With the backup first sacker job Scott Thorman’s to lose with him being out of options, I doubt the Braves would entertain the notion at this point in the 2008 season, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see Franco catch on with someone during the summer. Hopefully father time hasn’t quite caught up with ‘ol Julio.

By TexasBrave

February 11, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this

Niels Boor - DOB had that post off the net way before I had a chance to express my dissatisfaction. But to satisfy your curiosity Robert had mention that he was down on Wickman’s farm having pleasantries with a couple of farm animals.

Of course that doesn’t sound half as grotesque as Robert put it, but you get the gist. I might not agree with a lot of Bobby’s game decisions, but that is no reason to say that about the man.

By ChiTownBravo

February 11, 2008 1:27 AM | Link to this

Thought you guys might enjoy reading an article from a guy doing team previews on Foxsports.com. He picked the Braves to finish 3rd. Doesn’t appear that he really did a whole lot of research into his article though. Take a look at my comment, third one down. Feel free to chime in also on there.

http://community.foxsports.com/blogs/Morisato/2008/2/6/AtlantaBraves2008TeamPreview?var=one

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

February 11, 2008 2:12 AM | Link to this

Dave O’Brien , thanks for your 11:49 a.m. post. I agree , Mantle is number one when it comes to switch hitters. After him , it’s debatable.

I’ll list my top ten switch hitters and se if anyone else has an opinion.

1.Mickey Mantle

2.Eddie Murray

3.Chipper Jones

4.Pete Rose

5.Frankie Frisch

6.Tim Raines

7.Roberto Alomar

8.Chili Davis

9.Bernie Williams

10.Lance Berkman

By Nolie

February 11, 2008 2:15 AM | Link to this

Hey, Bubba — how ya doin’?

Let me ask you a question — is English your second language, or your third?

Whatever. Keep tryin’ — we’re rootin’ for ya.

Boor

hi yourself you narcissistic little twit. You’re not nearly as smart or funny as you think you are, which makes you and idiot too. careful, somebody might just drink your milkshake lil’ feller .LOL.See that Roger’s lawyer just got reprimanded huh? buncha hooligans over there, but what can you expect?LOL.hey maybe they’ll find some of Mrs Roger’s DNA on some of those needles. Bet she throws him under the bus real quick if that happens. Perfect.and hey thanks for rooting for me. I appreciate that, sweetie.

By Im

February 11, 2008 2:20 AM | Link to this

DOB how did winehouse win so many awards? am i the only one that thinks shes ridiculously overrated?

By William

February 11, 2008 5:09 AM | Link to this

**DOB……..William, if you want autographs I’d get there around 8 a.m.,

Thanks. I actually got everyones autograph at Fanfest. Francoeur wanted to know how he could get one of the pictures I had him autograph. He told this guy to take my contact info so he could get in touch with me. I haven’t heard from him so I’m assuming he never got the contact info. Anyway, I’m going to give him the picture if I can catch up with him in Orlando.

By William

February 11, 2008 5:10 AM | Link to this

DOB……..William, if you want autographs I’d get there around 8 a.m.,

Thanks. I actually got everyones autograph at Fanfest. Francoeur wanted to know how he could get one of the pictures I had him autograph. He told this guy to take my contact info so he could get in touch with me. I haven’t heard from him so I’m assuming he never got the contact info. Anyway, I’m going to give him the picture if I can catch up with him in Orlando.

By Niels Boor

February 11, 2008 5:42 AM | Link to this

You’re right, [nolie]http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/braves/entries/2008/02/08/kjgetsoverloo.html#comment-21590002), no one’s as smart as they think they are, and no one’s as sober as they think they are, either.

Better lay off the sauce, honey, or at least give your mother the keys.

We certainly wouldn’t want to be laughing at your misfortunes, or your family’s.

By Niels Boor

February 11, 2008 5:59 AM | Link to this

Hey, don’t nobody tell n8LIE I was askin’, but what does it mean for someone to “drink your milkshake”?

Is it some kind of real nasty sexual putdown? Does it have anything to do with A Clockwork Orange or a song by Kelis?

Thanks — remember, mum’s the word.

By chuckw/deadjournalist

February 11, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

I didn’t catch the last hour or so of the Grammy’s, but I saw enough to know that Kanye’s performance was top-notch. It was amazing how many awards they didn’t bother to present live. Not that I’m complaining.

I think once you get a little older, you get more excited about seeing the older artists. Tina Turner? Hello! Goodness, and she’s what, 70?

Speaking of the Foo Fighters - I know it might me sacrilege, but can’t an argument be made that Dave Grohl was Nirvana’s most talented member?

And a Braves note, after seeing the note on Ken Rosenthal’s article this morning, I’m not convinced that the Braves might not still be looking for a bat off the bench. If you missed it, the blurb mentioned how the Braves were going to miss out on signing Sweeney to the Dodgers but they were comfortable with Thorman off the bench. As has been discussed here in depth, that 25th roster spot decision might be very interesting.

By Adam

February 11, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

chuckw/deadjournalist,

I agree that Dave Grohl may have been the most talented of the 3 members of Nirvana. The man is an excellent drummer but has also proven to be an outstanding front man and just an excellent musician. When the Foo Fighters started out, I thought they would be a short term joke but now they are one of my favorite bands.

By KC

February 11, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

chuckw/deadjournalist: “I know it might me sacrilege, but can’t an argument be made that Dave Grohl was Nirvana’s most talented member?”

No.

By Serge

February 11, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

Hopefully Bobby Cox doesnt overlook KJ and has Kotsay bat ahead of him in the order.

By DAP

February 11, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

coach thats good info about homers switch hitting. murray and mantle both had more homers batting right handed, but you have to keep in mind both murray and mantle had 32% or thier total at bats right handed. chipper has only had 26% of his total at bats right handed, so mantle and murray had much more opportunity to hit righty.

also, chipper has a better slugging% from both sides than murray did.

looks to me like its very common for a switch hitter to hit more HR as a lefty, and more doubles as a righty. thats exactly what all of them did. and if chipper had closer to 32% of his total at bats right handed, i think his switch hitting numbers would be pretty close to mantle’s and murray’s.

By Random

February 11, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

chrisklob —

“I feel pretty good,” said Hampton, while making his first appearance at the club’s voluntary preseason camp for pitchers. “I feel confident that I’ll be able to start Spring Training and do everything like I normally would, but I’ll be a little smarter about the pace that I do it at.”

Mark Bowman: “Having made just 12 starts in 2005 and missed the past two seasons recovering from separate surgical procedures on his left elbow, Hampton was looking forward to the opportunity to make about six starts in the Mexican Winter League. But to add to the long list of frustrations he began compiling three years ago, he tore the hamstring in the first inning of the first game he pitched for Navojoa.

“Hampton felt the tear after slipping as he attempted to kick at a grounder heading to the team’s shortstop. He understood the severity once he threw a warmup pitch before the next inning.”

All’s forgiven, my brother — please come home.

By KC

February 11, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

THE UPSIDE OF THE BRAVES ROTATION:

Ken Rosenthal recently wrote a very good article on the NL East. In it, he touched on the strengths and weaknesses of the Braves, Phils, and Mets. I agree with all he had to say, save one thing…

He mentioned that, while the Braves have more depth in their rotation, they don’t have as much upside as the Mets.

I disagree.

I think Mike Hampton and that group of young arms (James, Jurrjens, Reyes, and Bennett) represent a great deal of upside. We don’t know with any certainty what to expect out of any these guys… but the potential impact of any of these guys seems significant, which of course is the unofficial definition of “upside”.

One or more of those young arms down there could have an impact.

I also put Hampton in that “upside” category because the Braves aren’t counting on him at all. But if he’s healthy, you’d have to expect he’ll be solid after shaking off the rust. Will he be healthy? Who knows… but there’s certainly upside there in the person of Mike Hampton. He’s one of those factors that -if all goes right- could have an impact.

As for the Mets… If we define “upside” as “uncertain but with much potential to exceed reasonable expectations’… I don’t see much upside in the Mets rotation.

I think we all fully expect Santana to be excellent, and Pedro (if healthy) to be very good. Which leaves Maine, Perez, and El Duque.

I gotta tell ya, I’ll be very surprised if the Mets get anything more from those 3 guys than what they got from them last year. In fact, in the case of Perez and Hernandez… I think they should be thrilled if either can be anywhere near as effective next season.

Don’t get me wrong, I like the Mets rotation. I think they’ll have a very good rotation. However, from where I’m sitting right now, I don’t think their rotation is any better than Atlanta’s, and I don’t see as much “upside” as I see in the Braves’ rotation.

By masivatack

February 11, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

Mike Honcho,

“I’m out in Dallas at law school by the way of Helen and the Sautee-Nacoochee valley of north Georgia.”

Why in the heck would you want to move to Dallas after experiencing soch an amazing place. I grew up as a Sautee Kid, driving the backroads of the Sautee Valley, enjoying Double Mountain Honey Boilermakers at Sweetwater Coffeehouse (no relation to the brewery), jumpin off of my friends bridge into the ‘Hooch and only moved to Atlanta because I had to escape the small town that I had known all my life (and several run-ins with the local po-po).

There is actually a thriving art scene at the community center and the area has produced some good music lately.

Give a listen to Big City Sunrise, I grew up with these kids, and they are all very talented musicians and cool people too. The are a “Jam” band in essence, while that is not my thing exactly, they have a great southern rock/bluesy edge:

http://www.bigcitysunrise.com/

I am sure we have met before, considering it is hard to NOT know everyone. I was just up there yesterday and love to visit. After a couple days, though, I get the itch to get back down to the city to enjoy the restaurants, music scene and excitement of the big city. Anyway it is nice to hear that someone else representing the Valley out here in cyberspace.

One day I will retire there. But for now, I will settle for being able to walk to braves games from my house, and the E.A.R.L. and other great spots within a mile or so :)

By David O'Brien

February 11, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

Chuck, yes the Braves could sign or trade for a bat in the next 6-7 weeks. Now that they’re this close to spring training, I think they’ll take a longer look at what they’ve got (as will other teams) before possibly doing something in the latter half of s.t.

Still wouldn’t surprise me if they moved Thorman, but I haven’t heard of anyone interested yet.

Also, I think that argument could be made for Grohl, but only in his musicianship and versatility — i mean, how many guys have changed intstruments and been part of two great bands? But as far as icon-type talent, Cobain was on that rare higher level. I mean, just examine some of the lyics the man wrote, not even mentioning his inventive guitar playing, which I’ve seen praised by many experts (of which I’m certainly not one) and also entirely panned by those into more technically brilliant guitar wizardry. I just know I liked it and it sounded cool.

But those lyrics, and that growling, tortured delivery … Cobain was unique, man. Had “it.”

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 11, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

KC - I agree with you — the Mets have a very likeable rotation and one that could be very good. However, whether it’s better than Atlanta’s, or has more upside…I don’t know.

I see a couple of dints in their rotation: for one, they gave up a lot of homers last year. Santana gave up 33 last year (Chuck James gave up 32, albeit in about 60 fewer innings), and Maine, Perez and El Duque (even in his injury-shortened season) each gave up 20+. Glavine gave up 20+ as well. By comparison, Hudson gave up 10, Smoltz 18, Carlyle 19 (more in almost 100 less innings than Smoltz). (Buddy was the second-highest on the team.)

I also think that having Pedro as the #2 is a mistake. It would’ve been a huge risk to have him as the ace of the staff, but I also think that having his as the #2 is still very risky. That’s a pretty important rotation spot, and having a guy coming back from surgery at this stage in his career (he can still be productive, but not what he once was) seems dicey. If he gets hurt again or can’t perform well, then they’ll need Maine or Perez to step up to take over. Not saying that they’d be unable to do so, but they would have the same amount of pressure in that situation as if Pedro was the ace.

I can see why some writers are favoring the Mets. Who wouldn’t want to have Santana as their no. 1? The Braves have a very strong ace too, and I like our 2-5 rotation better than that of the Mets. Am I biased? You betcha. Perez is dicey, and Maine had a poor second half last year; Martinez is coming back from injury and will be counted on in an important role.

By ncscoots

February 11, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

Morisato is obviously still reading Lillibridge’s low minors’ press clippings. That vaunted “plate discipline” started taking hits at AA and AAA last year, 40 walks, 500+ AB; Escobar’s comparable AA-AAA period, 73 BB, about 600 AB. Escobar also showed he was capable of bringing skills to the ML level.

Don’t get me wrong, I think Lillibridge has a chance to be an excellent player, at some position. But the intimation that he’s waiting in the wings ready to be an All-Star should Yunel tank, well, let’s call misguided thinking…charitably.

By Braveheart

February 11, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

Bobby Bonilla and Jorge Posada have been really good switch hitters - I don’t think they are top ten worthy though but just wanted to mention them.

Glad to see Grohl and the Foo Fighters get love. I think people have been almost too ashamed for too long to admit they like them alot because their sound does not have that edge that Nirvana had.

But Cobain definitely had that charisma that makes one a legend. Cobain was more of the Lennon/McCartney variety while Grohl was maybe more of the Harrison guy.

With that being said, Harrison probably had three of my favorite songs from Beatles members: Here Comes The Sun, While My Guitar Gently Weeps, and My Sweet Lord.

By N8

February 11, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

“Speaking of the Foo Fighters - I know it might me sacrilege, but can’t an argument be made that Dave Grohl was Nirvana’s most talented member?”

I’ve thought the same exact thing for years.

That being said, we’re getting back into the “subjective” side of musicians and their “talent”.

One could reasonably say that Dave had more talent than Kurt. Yet, as the frontman of quite possibly the most important band in the last 20 years, Cobain is always gonna be considered the brains behind nirvana.

I’ve never been a huge Nirvana (especially Cobain) fan. I enjoy Foo Fighters more than I ever enjoyed Nirvana. Of the “grunge” bands, Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam and Soundgarden are ALL ahead of Nirvana in my book.

But that’s just me. I realize I’m in the minority there. But that’s my opinion.

By uga-brave

February 11, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

daybed,

agree with most of what you said, but oliver perez has been a braves killer.

stuff has never been his problem, control and confidence has.

the guy has never put together good back to back seasons so who knows?

By Overlord

February 11, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Posada is an excellent hitter, but there is a big gap there between him and the top 3.

I have to admit checking little deeper made me agree that mantle is still on top of chipper but it is clear to me that 5 average years by chipper of 130 games played and he will pass him. chipper has a better BB/K ratio, will pass him in RBIs, will be right there in HRs but is behind in SLG and OBP which will be hard to surpass at his age.

By Overlord

February 11, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

ncscoots Yunel is already a superstar in the waiting. There will be no sophomore jinx. Only if Lillibridge is something like ozzie or ripken will make any run for the position. If at some point in the future he replaces yunel i can assure you talent wont be what takes it away from yunel. Thats the reason someone like renteria even with the marvelous year he had is not here anymore.

By masivatack

February 11, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

“Of the “grunge” bands, Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam and Soundgarden are ALL ahead of Nirvana in my book.”

That is because it is impossible to put that “grunge” label on such an enigmatic band. Kurt was definately the face of the band and rightly so. I think the talk of “most talented” is truly a sujective one. Yeah, maybe DG had the most refined musical talents, but that is only so much of the equation. I personally think that the imperfections of a particular band/artist are what truly give give them their identity.

To paraphrase (loosely) David Byrne: “…the more perfect someones voice, the less honest it seems…”

Or maybe I just listened to much Talking Heads, Pixies, and Pavement around that time?!?!

:)

By cadd1951

February 11, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

In 17 days I will be in section 4, row 4, seat 10 at Dodgertown to watch my much anticipated Braves take the field. ST comes none to early for this baseball fan!

By Overlord

February 11, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Daybed Wagmoe you are right about pedro, but it is a risk mets need to take. It comes with the NY media pressure. They need pedro to be their 2nd man. I think bobby would push him to 4th but randolph is no bobby and he doesnt manage in atlanta but in the friendly confines of NY.

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 11, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

uga-brave — Yes, Perez has been a monster against us. You’re right about his stuff, control and confidence.

We’ll see how he does this year, though I have a good feeling about our chances against him this year. If Chipper (who has hit “Ollie” very well in his career — .389 with 1 HR, 1 double and 6 walks in 18 ABs) is in the lineup on a regular basis against him, that’s a huge plus; it’ll also be a big plus having him hit in front of Teixeira instead of Andruw. While Tex is only .125 against Perez in 8 at-bats, Andruw has a .240 clip against him in 25 ABs. It might be interesting to see how much “help” Andruw provided Perez last year, especially in key at-bats.

But back to my point — having Tex in the lineup instead of Andruw creates much more potential especially against Perez (let alone any pitcher we face). But that’s sort of a “duh” point.

By bravesman

February 11, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

DOB, i played baseball nearly all of my young life. i was curious to know other than batting practice, infield&outfield along with pitcher fielding practice, what all does the teams workouts consist of during spring training compared to during the reg season? thanx

By DAP

February 11, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

if longevity is a factor in a baseball players greatness…should it be in a musicians greatness?

dave grohl is the man and i think foo fighters is way better than nirvana (though i do really like nirvana) but we still have to wait and see weather grohl or cobain will last longer.

if cobain had just quit playing music instead of killing himself, he wouldnt be as popular as he is now, so since grohl is much more stable and well adjusted, he probably wont be remembered to be as great as he is.

i also love pearl jam, and some soundgarden. grammatrain is also one of my favs. grunge is what i love. good stuff.

By Duane

February 11, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

Oliver Perez really has been a Braves killer. Didn’t Rick Reed have similar success against us back when he was with the team? I distinctly remember him throwing a complete game gem at the Ted at the start of the ‘01 season.

By David O'Brien

February 11, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

DAP, I respectfully disagree and say that music and sports longevity are entirely different issues. Entirely.

One lifestyle has nothing to do with stability and long-term production, etc. Sure, it’s good, but not the same situation. At all. Fans don’t expect musicians to live and work and do what’s best for their long-term health and that of their their team (group?).

And if you must compare the two, then Cobain would be a Sandy Koufax type. Short, brilliant career.

But again, it’s apples and oranges. No comparison. Hendrix is no less a musical giant for dying when and how he did. Neither is Hank Williams.

By ncscoots

February 11, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Overlord, a couple of years ago I thought the only guy who could keep Escobar from playing SS every day was Elvis Andrus, and said so in this forum. I don’t know about “superstar” becoming Yunel’s bio, but he certainly has a chance to be very, very good. Pundits who see him as a placeholder for Lillibridge are considerably off the mark, IMO.

Brent is in an uneviable position, I think…if Escobar fulfills expectations at SS, and Schaefer doesn’t hit roadblocks in his development, where does Lillibridge play? I’m not sure he has the pop to play a corner, and KJ looks as if he’ll turn into Jeff Kent Lite (yes, yes, I know there will be bloggers who will want to move Escobar and Johnson all over the diamond to accomodate Lillibridge, but that’s unlikely in the real world).

By David O'Brien

February 11, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

masivatack, well said at 12:56.

And good band, by the way, Massive Attack. I loved a couple of their albums, Blue Lines and Protection.

By Efrim

February 11, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Wow. Please read Rob Neyer’s blog on ESPN.com. If you could even get through it. I am not sure if this link will work, because you will need insider, but here it is anyway:

http://insider.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?name=neyer_rob

By Murph

February 11, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

What is the difference if Pedro is the Mets #2 or #4? I see Pedro and Maine as being 15 game winners so what is the difference if one pitches on Tuesday and the other pitches on Thursday?

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 11, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

Overlord: you are right about pedro, but it is a risk mets need to take. It comes with the NY media pressure. They need pedro to be their 2nd man. I think bobby would push him to 4th but randolph is no bobby and he doesnt manage in atlanta but in the friendly confines of NY.

Good point, but I still don’t think it’s the smart managerial move. You’re right — Bobby probably would push him to 4th in the rotation. I might put Maine in the #2 slot and then have some combination of Perez/Pedro in the 3rd and 4th slots, but I guess that’s why I’m typing on a computer in an office in February and not getting ready to go down to Florida.

Remember last year when we had Hampton penciled in to be the #3 guy? I’m not saying that Pedro and Hampton are equal situations, nor are they at the same points in their recovery/injury. If Pedro isn’t his former effective self, then going up against other #2 pitchers (guys like Hudson, Brett Meyers, Chris Young, Dan Haren, Derek Lowe, Matt Cain) doesn’t seem like it would bode well for the Mets.

And before responding to that point, I know that with different teams’ schedules, the #2 won’t always pitch against the other team’s #2. Yeah, I know. But that’s part of the theory behind organizing your rotation, so hear me out here.

By Braveheart

February 11, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

yes, yes, I know there will be bloggers who will want to move Escobar and Johnson all over the diamond to accomodate Lillibridge, but that’s unlikely in the real world).

Not me, Scoots. I don’t want KJ to suffer anymore of the holy sh!t sh!ts at a new position like DOB reported KJ experienced last season at second.

By OrlandoFan

February 11, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Switch-hitter debate. I pretty much agree with DOB and somewhat with Coach, but I think the top 2 are unquestionably Mantle and Rose. The former set the standard for power from both sides of the plate (hew was naturally right handed but lost a ton of homers to death valley in left-center at the old Yankee Stadium). And Rose set the standard for all hitters. How can you deny the man who has more base knocks than anyone? Love him or hate him, he showed up to play and got his hits. And he got big hits. And he played a lot of positions, which is tough. I as never a big fan of Eddie Murray, so I would rate him behind Chipper. After that, you can put them in a cap and draw them out. But Tim Raines, Frankie Frisch and Roberto Alomar defintely are the next 3. In another year, you might find Tex in the debate for the top 10. I can’t believe no one has thrown out what perhaps were two of the most overlooked great switch hitters of all time: Horace Clarke and ex-Brave Darrell Chaney.

By David O'Brien

February 11, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

Scoots, very true about Lillibridge. He could carve a niche as a Derosa type with Braves, or show enough to get a starting job elsewhere if Braves wanted to deal him at some point. But those who’ve written that Escobar is some marginal player or that he’s keeping the spot warm for Lillibridge don’t have a clue what they’re talking about.

The whole book on Escobar changed last year, when he went from legit-but-aging prospect with some questions about attitude, to very impressive rookie with uncommon swagger and no fear, and the ability to hit line drives against top major league pitchers in any situation.

And there was never a question about his SS defense, which isn’t “average” by any means. Great arm, good range and hands. Much better SS than 2B or 3B.

By OrlandoFan

February 11, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

Ooops…Darrel Chaney

By DAP

February 11, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

DOB thanks for being respectful, i dont deserve it but always appreciate it…but you didnt disagree with me anyways. i said

if longevity is a factor in a baseball players greatness…should it be in a musicians greatness?

it was just a question, which you then more than adequately answered. but, it was probably a dumb question anyways…like you said apples and oranges. another way its in no way similar is that once an musicians records something, people can forever enjoy it and be influenced by it, where what an athlete does mostly benefits their team THAT season, and while we can always appreciate an event like glavine’s one hit shutout in the ‘95 world series, it does us no good in ‘08 does it? :-) music definitely isnt like that.

By ncscoots

February 11, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, of course, not you, LOL. It’s the guys who have never had to wonder where to stand for cut-offs who are always ready to move a player out of position. :-) Man, it just ain’t as easy as the players sometimes make it look.

By Bryan

February 11, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

Efrim -

can you cut and paste keys parts of Neyer’s blog … i can’t read it …

The Mets have 3 days off during their first 15 games of the year … not sure if the difference between #2 spot or number #5 is going to mean much besides psychological… ol’ Rando might sit someone here or rest someone there … i figure with Pedro’s Ego ergo he is #2 …

You got to figure at least Pedro’s wrists are going to be strong this year … considering what he has been studying during his free time over in the Dominican Republic …

By ncscoots

February 11, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

DOB, Escobar’s arm is a rated a 70 in the scouting reports I’ve seen (my personal rating was higher, but, hey, I’m not a scout), I give him plus hands and average-to-good range. He can pick it, no problem.

But that Andrus…have mercy. He’s the guy I really cry about in the Tex trade. I just don’t want to come off all Wilson-Betemit about it. :-)

By Roman Gal

February 11, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Rose was better than Chipper. Rose had longevity…he played almost twice as long as Chipper has so far and has about 2 times more hits. Plus, Chipper has way better power numbers than Rose. Yesterday I posted the numbers Chipper could acheive if he plays for another 5 years maintaining his career numbers and they were pretty darn good.

OrlandoFan why aren’t you very high on Murray?

By Danny

February 11, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

DOB, when do single-game tickets go on sale? I have noticed that some teams are already selling single-game tix, but haven’t been able to find anything about the Braves. Didn’t know if you knew of a definite date/time.

By Ippississim

February 11, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Dave Grohl is a true master, and a workhorse to boot. Listen to the first, self-titled, Foo Fighters album, and the only sound on the entire disc that isn’t Dave Grohl is a short guitar solo by Greg Dulli (Afghan Whigs) about halfway through the album. If you read any of the early-Foo/post-Nirvana interviews, you’ll find that Grohl purposefully kept his creative input to a minimum in Nirvana (didn’t want to mess with Cobain’s mojo). If you’re into 80’s metal, check out his Probot project. It’s the equivalent of a metal All-Star game. For Beatles lovers, he did the soundtrack to the movie Backbeat, a biopic about their Hamburg days with Stuart Stutcliffe and Pete Best in the lineup. He’s done numerous other soundtracks, manned the throne for Queens of the Stone Age, Tenacious D, Ozzy, Tom Petty, and lots of others, both live and in studio, and still tours his skinny white behind off with Nate, Chris, and Taylor. Plus, he keeps humble about the whole thing. Amazing.

By Jim

February 11, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Chipper compares very favorably to Pete Rose. He has a higher lifetime BA, On base percentage, and OPS. His power numbers are much better. For any given year during their prime, I would rather have Chipper at 3B than Rose.

Mantle is a different story. If one considers only his prime years from 1953 - 1961, there are few players in the history of the game who were better. The numbers he put up in his triple crown year have only been approached since by ARod’s performance last year, (not counting Bonds steroid enhanced years in the early 2000’s). Mantle’s career numbers do not reflect his true greatness during the peak of his career because of the problems with his legs and his enjoyment of the night-life caused his career to decline prematurely.

By Shaun

February 11, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

I have to admit checking little deeper made me agree that mantle is still on top of chipper but it is clear to me that 5 average years by chipper of 130 games played and he will pass him. chipper has a better BB/K ratio, will pass him in RBIs, will be right there in HRs but is behind in SLG and OBP which will be hard to surpass at his age.

I have to rate Mantle as the best switch-hitter ever. In his best seasons, he was as valuable as Ruth, Bonds, Williams or anyone.

He had three seasons in which his OPS was over 100 percent better than league average when adjusting for ballpark.

Every season he played except for his very first (as a 19-year-old) his OPS was at least 37 percent better than league average after adjusting for ballpark. He has 14 seasons in which his OPS was at least 50 percent better than league average.

And, finally, he ranks 6th all time (behind Ruth, Bonds, Gehrig and Hornsby) in career OPS+.

It will be very difficult for anyone to pass Mantle.

By N8

February 11, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

masivatack

“That is because it is impossible to put that “grunge” label on such an enigmatic band.”

I disagree. They were at the forefront of EVERYTHING that the “grunge” bands stood for (or have you forgotten about Cobain wearing the “I hate corporate magazines” T-shirt for his Rolling Stone photo shoot?).

Those bands’ “look” was having no look. Their sound went against EVERYTHING that the 80’s stood for. Nothing was structured.

DOB

You earlier said:

” I mean, just examine some of the lyics the man wrote, not even mentioning his inventive guitar playing, which I’ve seen praised by many experts (of which I’m certainly not one) and also entirely panned by those into more technically brilliant guitar wizardry. I just know I liked it and it sounded cool.”

I’m not so sure his “sound” was innovative. It was bad guitar tone, at it’s finest. That doesn’t make it wrong, or incorrect. It was what it was.

He wasn’t a gear head. But his guitar tone reminds me of that kid down the block with the 30 dollar guitar, and the old stero that his uncle “converted” into a guitar amp.

Now, don’t get me wrong. IT WORKED!! It was what was so “refreshing” about Nirvana.

But make no mistake, his guitar tone can be heard on the Beatle’s “Revolution” (or any old Lenny Kravitz album).

For YEARS there have been arguments over who has good tone or not. To each his own (just like music in general).

Cobains magic came in an era when people were VERY tired of the hair bands, and all that was the 80’s in general. So quite honestly, I think Nirvana’s success had more to do with what they were NOT, than what they actually were.

But admit it everybody….

All those photos you have of yourself wearing ripped up (and dirty) jeans, with the “I’ve been wearing this for 4 days” T-shirt, with the flanel over the top and hair that hadn’t been washed for days, looks JUST AS SILLY NOW as the photos of your older brother wearing spandex, and the ones of your dad wearing bell-bottoms and giving the peace sign.

When did grunge die? Nope. Not when Cobain died. His music will live forever. Grunge died, the second The Gap started stocking their shelves with flanel.

Just like punk before it, as soon as it became “mainstream”, it lost it’s lustre with the die-hards.

Anyhow. Don’t take this as bashing on Cobain or Nirvana. I have BIG-TIME respect for Nirvana the band, and Cobain the “artist”. Cobain the man (who felt compelled to leave a daughter behind because life got hard for him)…not so much.

But then again, if I was a fan of the Dallas Cowboys, I certainly wouldn’t care less about T.O.’s personality, as long as he was catching TD’s.

But so much of liking a musical artist, is feeling the connection to that artist. That is why their music (and surely their lyrics) hit home.

So forgive me for NOT being a heroin adict, forgive me for NOT understanding why a guy who seemingly had everything I’d ever dreamed of having as a kid, felt compelled to kill himself. Ultimately, forgive me for not getting it, other than what affect Nirvana/Cobain had on the music business (and music history in general), overall.

He is what every person that offs themselves, leaving a family in pain in the wake……a cowherd.

By N8

February 11, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

masivatack

“To paraphrase (loosely) David Byrne: “…the more perfect someones voice, the less honest it seems….Or maybe I just listened to much Talking Heads, Pixies, and Pavement around that time?!?!”

Let me add to my last post (which I realize may come across as though I was attacking you and DOB…..I wasn’t.

Cobain’s VOICE is what “moved” me about him. You could feel his pain, his anxiety, his anger (it was ALL believable and real), when the man opened his mouth.

But as a guitar player who LOVES ANYTHING that is guirar orientated, I never, ever found anything original or innovative about his playing or his tone (“sound” for the non-musician).

Did he have some cool riffs? ABSOLUTELY. But NOTHING earth-shattering in my mind.

Again. I realize, that I might be in the minority here. But I’m not gonna lie.

By Braveheart

February 11, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

I’m too young for Pete Rose. My earliest memory is the kinda chubby guy when I was 8 years old or so who was breaking Ty Cobb’s record.

But I have heard people like Mike Schmidt say that he thought Pete Rose was a more important member of his team than Schmidt himself. I have heard Schmidt say things like we weren’t good enough but Rose is the one who got us over the hump in 1980.

I don’t know what to think of that. Maybe it is just Schmidt sticking up for his boy. Or maybe it is like when Ted Williams would say things like if Phil Rizzutto played for the Red Sox instead of the Yankees, the Red Sox would have been winning all of those World Series instead of the Yankees.

But if Schmidt is the best third baseman ever and he thought Rose was a more important player to his team than himself, it’s kinda hard to rank Chipper ahead of Rose for now when Chipper has not yet toppled Schmidt at third.

Not too scientific or statistical of an analysis but not everything in baseball has to be argued that way.

But Mickey Mantle thought he was washed up in 1968 when he had an OPS+ of 142. Chipper’s career OPS+ is 143. That should tell you something about how dominant Mantle was compared to his competition.

Not that I think Mantle would ever give a crap to hear about his OPS+. He probably would have dumped a beer over my head, had Billy Martin throw me a beating, and then have Whitey Ford buy me a beer after Billy was done beating me to a pulp for bringing up a stat like OPS+.

But Mantle is on the Mount Rushmore of all time hitters with Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, Stan Musial, Ty Cobb, Hank Aaron, Joe Dimaggio, Lou Gehrig, Rogers Hornsby, Willie Mays and a few others.

Chipper is a top 5 third baseman, a top 4 switch hitter, a Hall of Famer, but he is not gonna crack the top ten hitters of all time list like The Mick.

By masivatack

February 11, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

Yeah DOB they are one of my faves, too. They, along with that kinda downtempo movement of bands like Tricky, Everything but the Girl, Morcheeba and Portishead all kinda went the way of the Dodo. But if you are pulling out all of the stops to set the mood for your lady (or any lady for that matter)… you can’t do much better than any of these bands, SERIOUS booty-smackin music.

One more note, have you guys heard of Gostland Observatory? A friend of mine tuned me on to them, saying that their live show is amazing. If you havent seen their youtube videos, this guy’s dancing is priceless….

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGpn_HeTSgM

BTW: Have you heard of a guy named Nick Manness as a possible spring training invitee? I worked with his wife and a few weeks ago, he threw for Hoss at his training facility and last I heard, he might get a chance. I had the opportunity to meet him, and he is a real humble, soft spoken guy, so I am rooting for him.

By DAP

February 11, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Shaun im glad you commented on the switch hitting talk, because i was sure youd bring something different.

dont you think evaluating OPS+ of players in different eras is unfair? mantle’s OPS+ might be insane, but if chipper played when mantle did, would his OPS+ be alot higher than it is now? (im asking cause i really dont know, but i assume it would be much higher.) comparing chipper to ‘roid improved players isnt fair to him when comparing him to mantle. (thats, of course, assuming he wasnt ‘roid improved, which i highly doubt he ever was)

By Hunk Erdown

February 11, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

There’s a lot of factors that make a comparison of Chipper versus Mantle/Rose/et al a tough call. I wonder where Chipper would be if he had been able to hit before Tex the last several years instead of Andruw Jones. How many games would Chipper have been able to erase off of the injured reserve if he had fewer times of having to slide into second to break up all those double plays. There are a bunch of what-ifs involved. Mantle played in such a different era (ballpark sizes, mound heights, equipment, even the pitchers faced) that he and Chipper are almost incomparable, imo. Given what we have to go on, up to this point, I’d have to say it’s Mantle/Rose/Jones, but I sure would have liked to see Chipper have had a few breaks that would have given him the opportunity to bypass some of the obstacles he has faced.

I don’t know what it was like for mantle or even rose and murray but i love to see the focus and concentration in Chipper’s eyes when he steps up to the plate, and conversely, the “oh sh!t” look on the pitchers’ faces when Chipper steps up with ducks on the pond. There is a connection between a hitter and a pitcher that takes place when the duel commences that is unlike any other sport. As a hitter, Chipper is one of the best at the physchological part of the battle, and as a pitcher, Glavine is one of the all time best (he has to be with his style of pitching, unlike someone like Nolan Ryan, who had a ‘here it is, see if you can hit it’ approach). Man, I can’t wait for the season to get started.

By Wayne in Utah

February 11, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

Kurt Cobain, Jimi Hendrix, Sandy Koufax and Hank Williams ALL in the same post. Only on the MIB/Braves blog!!

:-)

By Shaun

February 11, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

DAP, actually OPS+ is OPS adjusted for league and park; so it should, theoretically at least, already adjust for different time periods.

By Wayne in Utah

February 11, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

All the questions about Lillibridge, Escobar and KJ (not to mention Holt, Gilmore, Hicks, Pope, Campbell, etc) will tend to work themselves out. I really like having a couple of extra guys around in case somebody slips, or gets bit by the injury bug.

These things tend to work themselves out.

By David O'Brien

February 11, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

N8, why would you even be so simplistic as to try to compare others’ lives, their inner demons, their upbringing (have you ever checked into Cobain’s background? you might want to) and just throw out that catch-call, “Why would anyone with so much to live for, kill himself?”

Why indeed? It’s not a recent phenomena, N8. Some people are unhappy. Very unhappy. And your saying they shouldn’t be doesn’t change that fact of life.

I mean, consider yourself fortunate to have a stable existence, and/or inner happiness or contentment. But things like addiction, mental illness, inner demons … N8, they’re far, far more complex than you portray them. Doesn’t boil down so easily.

Just leave it at what you know, which is whether or not you like the man’s music, and let the other part rest. Because you or I really don’t know enough about someone’s mind and soul to know what was going on in there, what was missing, what made him so unhappy.

Sorry, but that just perturbs me, when folks try to judge whether others should be happy or just assume that money or success or whatever should satisfy others. I mean, from all I’ve read about him, he was extremely sad and lonely, and success did nothing to help him in that regard. If anything, it only allowed others to take advantage of him and use him.

Oh, and as for what you said here:

“All those photos you have of yourself wearing ripped up (and dirty) jeans, with the �I�ve been wearing this for 4 days� T-shirt, with the flanel over the top and hair that hadn�t been washed for days, looks JUST AS SILLY NOW as the photos of your older brother wearing spandex, and the ones of your dad wearing bell-bottoms and giving the peace sign.”

Sorry, but to me, neither the flannel nor the bell-bottoms and peace signs are anything like spandex, which was and is a fashion atrocity. You go to small clubs and you’ll still see bands that wear flannel, and some of them are wearing it without irony. it’s cheap and comfortable. And plenty of folks flash peace signs. I saw a few flashed last night on the Grammys, in fact.

I did NOT see any spandex. At least not on dudes.

By flange1

February 11, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Afternoon all,

Just got back into town and I find a BEAUTIFUL picture of Frenchy with MY NAME on it!

Lew, Thanks for the Wurlitzer, it is spectacular!

Hope all of the MIB denizens say their prayers, take their vitamins and do the right thing and maybe you too can win a Wurlitzer!!!

By KC

February 11, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Bold Mike Hampton Prediction:

23 starts

First half: 3-4 with a 5.03 ERA

Second half: 6-3 with a 4.30 ERA

No, I don’t seriously think I have any real idea of what’s going to happen, but if I had to guess… this would be my guess.

The best realistic expectation Braves fans can have is this…

That Hampton will have some rust, but will gradually shake it off as the year goes along.

That Hampton will miss some starts due to nagging injuries or soreness of one kind or another.

But that, hopefully, Hampton will get better as the year goes along, and by the time Sep/Oct arrive… could make a significant contribution.

That’s what I’m hoping for.

By David O'Brien

February 11, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

Oh, almost forgot: NEW BLOG IS UP

By StingerSplash

February 11, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Cobain probably couldn’t win a Guitar Hero duel, but the man had incredible skill in simply knowing what rock n roll is all about. I listened to a couple of my favorite Nirvana tunes again recently — “On A Plain” and “Frances Farmer Will Have Her Revenge on Seattle” — and Cobain was one helluva writer. Also, listen to the live version of “Aneurysm” and how he completely embodies what a frontman should be, then at end, you get the real Cobain, the shy, almost embarrassed to be there with the very low “thank you” to the crowd. Cobain and Co. got it. They understood rock n roll. Pearl Jam may be better musically and have better musicianship, but Cobain got it. He understood attitude and weltanschaung are even more important. Just my three cents; inflation, you know.

By DAP

February 11, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

N8 forgive me for NOT being a heroin adict

ok, i forgive you. :-)

ditto on your evaluation of cobain’s character.

i disagree with you though. grunge never died. neither did punk. the spirit is still there and will always be out there somewhere. like jack black says: stick it to the man!!

“I serve a society by rockin’!!! and ROCKIN’ aint a walk in the PARK, lady!”

By OrlandoFan

February 11, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

Romangal: Sorry for the delay in responding. Had to drop off for a bit and just got caught up (but you’re probably on to the other blog, which is where I will be next).

Murray is a guy who got most of his HRs in a way that had little impact. He played on some good teams with teh Orioles, but he wasn’t necessarily THE MAN on those teams. And he DHd a lot. I think that changes the complexion of everything. Mantle, Rose, Chipper have been out there, playing multiple positions, battling injuries, running into people and things. They all played tougher positions and put up superior numbers. To me, Murray’s 500 HRs (no matter how he batted) was akin to Palmiero’s, the product of opportunity. He was good but not overhwelmingly as great as the numbers would suggest. Mantle could have been so much more than he was. Some day, we may say Chipper lost a lot to injury as well. Rose overachieved. But to me they are clearly the three best. Murray gets the next nod just on numbers.

By masivatack

February 11, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

I am talking about the music, not the lyrics, or the guitar riffs, or even the voice. Their legacy will be much bigger than the “Grunge” movement. Considering it was more of an counter-culture than a particular sound, I have a hard time making that a box to put them in. It’s an easy place to put Nirvana, but that does no justice for their music. They pushed the envelope much further than Soundgarden and Alice in Chains (Although I really like that “Jar of Flies” album) ever did.

I think you are deconstructing this argument to a point that it makes absolutely no sense. But like I said, it is all relative. You like guitar riffs, I am more into people who push the limits and stretch themselves (and the industry) artistically, sometimes even with a guitar riff.

By uga-brave

February 11, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

always very difficult to compare players from three vastly differnt era’s.

lots of what ifs for all three players. what if mantle does not mangle his leg in a right center-field drain? scribes of the time said it really robbed him of remarkable speed.

what if rose does not spend his whole career playing on astroturf? the guy perfected the astroturf hit. who knows what effect playing on astroturf did to rose’s body.

i pretty much agree on mantle, rose, and then a debate.

well there has been a movie made about rose and one about mantle (thought thomas jane did a decent job playing the mick.) dont think we will see a movie about hoss. though it would be interesting to ask chipper who should be cast as the lead.

By David O'Brien

February 11, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

Stinger, you should take that cobain comment to the new blog. too good to waste here with everybody having moved over.

By nOLIE

February 12, 2008 5:17 AM | Link to this

DOB, Escobar’s arm is a rated a 70 in the scouting reports I’ve seen (my personal rating was higher, but, hey, I’m not a scout), I give him plus hands and average-to-good range. He can pick it, no problem.Scoots

70 out of 80 is very very good Scoots

By cadd1951

February 12, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

Spring training countdown

In 16 days I will be in section 4, row 4, seat 10 at Dodgertown to watch my much anticipated Braves take the field. ST comes none to early for this baseball fan!