Braves

By ssiscribe

February 14, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

All aboard! Next stop: October.

(We hope.)

—30—

By DW

February 14, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

Boogity! Boogity! Boogity! Let’s go pitching, boys!

By Jim H.

February 14, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

I might be nuts, but I have a good feeling about Hampton helping us out a lot this year. I can’t really understand all the “hating” on him anyway. It ain’t like the dude is a big, fat, out-of-shape slob and is injury prone……The fact is he was always known as very physically fit and an intense competitor. He really had only the one major elbow injury, which unfortunately did not heal correctly the first time. And as some might have forgotten, after he got Coors Field out of his head he was our most effective starter for about a season and a half until the elbow injury happened. As far as the contract, can’t fault him for getting what he could….most anybody reading this would have taken the money if they could have gotten it too. Now if does come back successfully and wants to give the Braves a discount to extend his contract for a year or two, that would be cool (not likely though).

By Bryan

February 14, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

John Prine in the spring time! Thats what i like!

By Adam

February 14, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

It sure will be nice to feel like the Braves have starting pitching “options” this year unlike last year where they thought 6 guys would be enough and ended up with 4 (sorry Mike Redmond doesn’t count as one as bad as he was). That #5 slot cost the Braves a ton of wins not only on there starts but also the toll it took on the bullpen. 5 solid starters is going to do wonders for the bullpen.

By bravos fan

February 14, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

glad its that time of the year. i like this team alot . the infield is solid and the only concerns are center nd left. they need to start jair hes got nasty stuff. his stuff is wayy better than slow baller chuck james and way better control than reyes. bobby listen to me i have to watch all season DOB heard anything about maybe renting Joe Nathan he could help because the pen isnt as good as it was last year . thanx and keep up the blogs

By eware

February 14, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

Ohhh, I’m soooo excited a little pee just came out.

This is going to be a great season! Let’s play some games already!

Thanks, DOB. You’re a great hype-man - whether you like it or not.

By David-ATL14

February 14, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

Plenty of good info and kudos on the Song selection also DOB.

All’s right in the world for a day anyway.

By Jim H.

February 14, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

John Prine can still do it. “Fair and Square”, which came out just a few years ago, is a great album (I personally skip the one Bush-Bashing song on it, though).

By thehonus

February 14, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

If only September contained as much anticipation and optimism as February

By ncscoots

February 14, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

Bennett was signed as a minor league FA (I think) by Milwaukee in 2004, and was with the ML club all year (no option used). Add in the minor league time lost due to injury (plus I think the options rule changed this year in the CBA. I think). Bingo, options left.

By Rich

February 14, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Prine played Jekyll Island back in 1979 & I was able to spend an afternoon & have a meal with him & his band. What a songwriter…probably no velocity on his fastball, tho, so he can’t help the Braves.

By ncscoots

February 14, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

Oops, sorry, had the Rule 5 changes and the options rules mixed up. Now 4 and 5 years for purposes of Rule 5. Guess option years have remained at 3.

By Im

February 14, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

DOB why do you call it Dark Star?

By TennesseePaul

February 14, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB!

Baseball begins! Let’s get this show on the road. Dirtbags take the field on the 22nd against Rice. It’s about the bat, the ball, the glove, the field, the everything it is. This is what we live for.

GO BRAVES!!

By Epinephrine

February 14, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

You have to feel good about this year’s team. Looking back to last year, it’s amazing I was able to discount the potential problems with our starting rotation, Thorman, Langerhans, etc. We do not seem to have any of the same wholes this year-or at least not as big. How left field will work, and how Kotsay will perform, remains an open question. However, those are two questions I am pretty comfortable with.

Just the idea of Hampton pitching on a regular basis gets me pretty pumped. I hadn’t even allowed myself to really consider the possibility. Could be absolutely huge for this team.

Go Braves.

By Braves Fan

February 14, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…

By Milledeville Matt

February 14, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

We need to go ahead and forget about Hampton already. I love the way he plays and believe he was an excellent pitcher, but if anybody thinks he will start more than five games this year is sadly mistaken. I wish him all the best, but he clearly cannot be counted on.

By Salty

February 14, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

Goodness! Spring training, excitement, and incontinence! What a grouping! LOL! eware, that was funny!

By Carolina Gent

February 14, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Eware, a little TMI there (too much info). Gotta agree with The Honus, though. Let’s ll hope our optimism in September/October for this season is as high as it is now!

By stewie d

February 14, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

players who could be traded if the Braves don’t plan to keep them on the 25-man roster: relievers Blaine Boyer, Chris Resop and lefty Royce Ring; first baseman Scott Thorman, and catcher/utility man Brayan Pena

I know he will make the roster but something tells me Chuck James will eventually be trade bait also if Hampton IS healthy and Jair has a good spring. Bennet and JoJo will also be there if needed.

By Carolina Gent

February 14, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Eware, a little TMI there (too much info). Gotta agree with The Honus, though. Let’s all hope our optimism in September/October for this season is as high as it is now!

By HuffBraves

February 14, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

What time do the workouts start this weekend? I seem to recall they usually have physicals on the first weekend od ST…

By Randy S

February 14, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

AWESOME SONG, DOB. John Prine is touring right now. Missing him by a week at JazzFest

By Salty

February 14, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

Milledeville Matt: I will consider myself ‘sadly mistaken’. He hasn’t forgotten how to pitch; simply hasn’t been able to.

By StingerSplash

February 14, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

Great. No sooner do I get worked up for Van Halen in Jacksonville that I find out that George Jones is coming to Savannah on the same night.

By Salty

February 14, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

ncscoots Off topic: how are your TarHeel friends (oxymoron?) treating you these days? My heart is still hurtin’!

By Tomahawkin

February 14, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Biggest key for the team as a whole, And I will bet that many will cosign on this is…

We Gotta improve our record in one run games, 1-run games killed us last year, and expect more of the same this year

I’m not rolling with Hampton either, I seriously think we will be Lucky to get 15 starts out of him…lets not repeat the same mistake on over-relying on him like we did last year…

By Jo

February 14, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

Who needs candy and flowers? Give me pitchers and catchers. Go Braves!

By kdbanks

February 14, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

Mmmmmmmmmmmm….daily blogs.

I sure hope Hamper’s ready to go this year and can stay healthy. Love watching that guy throw.

Seems like we have some hungry players down there which should be good for everyone’s energy level.

Fingers crossed for an injury free spring.

By ncscoots

February 14, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

Salty, many reports down this way of Tar Heel fans knee-capped and spray-painted orange. But I have no knowledge of those events.

Anyone who says I do has misremembered.

By Jim H.

February 14, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Come on baseball season! Since I have zero interest in basketball and hockey, and only very passive interest in NASCAR , this time of year (between the Super Bowl and baseball season) is the “black hole” of the sports year to me.

I think most of the problems from last year have been addressed and corrected, with the biggest being the added depth in starting pinching. I think the bullpen will be more or les equal to last year (meaning they’ll be pretty dang good).

Kotsay needs to stay healthy. It’s gonna be strange with no Andruw in center. We’ll loose some defense for sure, but not having Andruw in the middle of the order snuffing out rallies right and left should help offensively.

Gotta resign Tex !!!!!

By uga-brave

February 14, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

salty,

i agree. have been saying for a while that hampton will suprise.

i think it will take a while to build up his arm strength, but if the elbow holds up i think he can be a major contributor.

DOB, speaking of PRE did you ever see the movie “WITHOUT LIMITS?”

By Robert

February 14, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

What’s the use? The Donk will blow it in the end.

By McFann

February 14, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

Bennett loses weight

That’s great, DOB……uh…anybody else…?

8 )

By McFann

February 14, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

Oh crud. I thought Robert was gone.

By Greg in TN

February 14, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

Afternoon fellow denizens…

DOB, I doubt that I’ll be able to parlay ‘diametrically’ into something as memorable this go around, but it’s good hearing about the early reports from Dark Star as everyone begins to convene for ST.

I always enjoy seeing the scribe showing up as well as David-ATL14 and I am sure that in the next few days, the blog will also have many regulars “reporting for duty” for the season.

Folks, I know many eyes will be on Mike Hampton in the next six weeks, and rightfully so, however this denizen will be pulling for the guy. I realize and understand the frustration by the fellow citizens in the Braves Nation, however he helped this team when he was healthy and I’m not about to bury a guy that can help us this year, and admittedly, he has to stay healthy to do that. The Mexican League video has been discussed, and after watching it soon after it was posted here, I saw a guy slipping and falling on the front of the mound trying to make a play. Nothing fluky about that folks, not in my book. Still, he’s missed a tremendous amount of time in a sport that generally isn’t very forgiving for things like that. It will take some time for him to adjust to game situations again. If he’s able to do that, I think we’ll be just fine, if not, we have the luxury this year of having internal options that we haven’t had the past few springs.

I am very eager to see how much Javy Lopez has in the tank, especially after how his 2007 ended so early after spring training with the Rockies. How much has working with Chino Cadahia helped him in the offseason? We will soon find out, but if he’s effective with the stick, he will make a contribution to this team. He did look fit and trim at Braves Fest and seemed happy to be back.

I will be watching three guys closely this spring, and these are guys that may or may not make the club once the team breaks from Dark Star for Hank Aaron Drive.

First, Jordan Schafer. From what little I saw of him last year at Myrtle Beach, I was impressed, however he’ll need to improve on what was a good year split between the Pelicans and Mississippi. Some think he could step in this year in CF, but I still believe he’s one year away from jumping in and being an effective CF’er at the MLB level.

Two, Charlie Morton. This guy pitched light’s out in one Arizona Fall League game that so happened to have much of the Braves Brass and the leader of the Braves/MIB blog in attendance. If you take out one bad outing against Scottsdale where Morton was touched for 5 ERs in 3 innings, the kid was dang near unhittable, giving up one earned run in 18 innings and striking out 18. This coming after making steady improvement in Mississippi toward the tail end of last year. I hope to see him making steady improvement during ST. I think he’s also going to need some time with the depth we have right now in pitching, but will be following him closely this year wherever he winds up.

I’ll also be looking to see what kind of spring Brandon Jones has. He has a far better chance to make the team than either Schafer or Morton and I agree with the sentiments of many here that believe he’d do well in a platoon with Diaz in LF. I haven’t seen Jones play to this point, he had the night off the only time I could catch Mississippi playing here, but it seems to me he’s kind of in-between being a good hitter in terms of average and a power hitter. Either way, he’s going to have to work a little more on hitting for average or for power and improve his K totals.

Should be an interesting year, gang, so put your tray tables and seats in the full upright and locked position while we prepare for what should be a pretty entertaining season.

By flange1

February 14, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for the new blog.

I gotta say that I am really excited about our young pitchers. I really think that JJJ, Bennett and Morton are going to push James, Reyes and Hampton. A little competition is good for all involved.

I hope the guys in the pen can do the same thing, everyone push each other to be better. I like the depth in pen as well. I would love to have 1 more stud out there, but we might already have him and don’t know it.

The bench to me is going to be a place where the competition is going to be interesting. Pena and Thorman better have great springs if they want to hang around.

I am looking forward to seeing Anderson play the outfield and run. I would love to see him make the team as an extra outfielder/pinch runner.

It is great that Diaz is in camp so early. I have always thought of him as a great PH and support guy, but it would be great for him to push Brandon Jones HARD in left.

I think 2008 is going to be a great year to be a Braves fan!!!

By BamaBrave

February 14, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

Awwwwwwwwwwrite… pitchers, catchers and blogmeisters report. Love it.

Hampton… I’d hate to do the math on how much he’s been paid as a Brave, and divide that by the innings he’s pitched. It would just be too painful. But hey, fingers crossed, dude. Good luck. Gawd knows he’ll be flying under the radar this year.

It’s a springtime ritual to feel optimistic about your team, but I’m stoked about the mix of veterans and younglings on this team. It will be interesting to watch the chemistry develop as the year unfolds…

By timmythebrave

February 14, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

Jim H, You should go to a thrashers game. I wasn’t a hockey fan either until I went to a live game. You get big hits, fighting, and a decent team to watch. I’m still not a “hockey fan” but I’m a huge thrasher fan. It’s not baseball but it will get you through until April 1(Unless your lucky and get to go to spring training) I’m pretty excited about this team. I think we have improved starting pitching and 1b(Tex all year) but I’m worried about Kotsay in CF. Also I think Escobar is a good player but you have to admit that it will probably be a drop off in hitting. Renteria had a hit almost every night. Overall it should be a battle for 1st between Phillies, Mutts, and Braves. I know who I am picking. Go Braves

By uga-brave

February 14, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

tomahawkin,

one run games were a problem but games that we scored five or less runs in buried us. we were at least 20 games under .500 in games when we did not score five.

had trouble winning the close ones all year. pitch well, we did not hit. hit well, we did not pitch.

our season was the polar opposite of the D’BACKS who won every close game they played in.

By Tomahawkin

February 14, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

Hey guys check out this CBS article

http://cbs.sportsline.com/mlb/story/10637459

Read it and holla at me about what’chu think…

After reading it I thought this Cat was Joking ranking The Rockies above Our Braves…I usually stick to The Athlon Baseball Annual Magazines as the most credible th their predictions, This Cat who writes this article obviously had to be wearing a Reyes jersey while he was making this stuff up…

I mean come on, How da hell did the cubs rank so High???Their offense sucks. Lee carries that offense, if he gets injured that team then ranks among the Reds. I would take my money on the Brew-Crew ahead of the Cubs…

By flange1

February 14, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

Robert,

I believe that you have said in the past that if Bobby Cox manages the team past this season, that you would stop being a fan.

He is already alluding to the fact that he will be coming back next year.

Think you could find a new team to “root” for now?

An maybe find that teams blog? :)

By doc

February 14, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

just get hampton to the pen to start the season and healthy there for a month or two then let him work into the starter slot and gonzalez take the pen role from there. that puts someone in long relief or spot starts out of the bullpen when the older arms need a rest.

By Rocket

February 14, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

It is what it is. I misremember the words of those who are diametrically opposed.

By QueensMetsfan

February 14, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

from Jayson Stark:

“Most improved teams (NL)

Mets Diamondbacks Cubs

Here’s how much of a difference maker Johan Santana is: Before the Mets traded for him, they were viewed as one of the National League teams that had done the least to get better this winter. But drop the best pitcher of his time into this mix, and people start changing that tune, faster than you can say, “Whatever happened to Deolis Guerra?” Can one player really make that much of a difference? Sure. When he’s this player. Heck, the Twins went 105-47 when Santana started over the past five years (and only 335-323 when he didn’t). So the Mets might go undefeated when he’s out there.

Poll tidbit: The Mets got 14 votes from our panelists. The D-backs got 10. And no other NL team got more than three.”

read it and weep, Braves fans!

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 14, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Tomahawkin - you’re right on the one-run games. Atlanta was 18-25 last year. The other teams with a losing record in one-run games last year were the Marlins, Astros, Pirates, Cardinals, Padres, and Giants. Not great company. For a full list, go here .

But why should we expect more of the same this year? Last year the problem was starting pitching and the bullpen, though 3rd in the league, had Wickman for most of the year. The Braves have addressed the pitching needs and the bullpen is more solid.

As for the offense, I think one thing that might help is not having Andruw in the lineup anymore. He hit .218 in 97 close & late plate appearances last year, including 22 strikeouts. The Braves as a team hit .257 in close & late situations.

And nobody would think that the Braves are “over-relying” on Hampton this year.

By Lee in S. GA

February 14, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

Wouldn’t mind seeing someone like Anderson or Diaz get a little work at 1st base also during spring training. If Thorman is cut or traded we really don’t have anyone as a backup without a trade being made.

By timmythebrave

February 14, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

Hey Robert, we get it…you hate bobby cox….you’ve said it 1,000,000,000,000 times. Just rename yourself “I hate Bobby Cox” and then post something other than that. Just think of how many key strokes you could save.

By ncscoots

February 14, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

The best way to improve in one-run games is not to play any. Period. Big bats beat bad hops. Something the Diamondbacks will more than likely find out this year.

Pythagorean records gained credence for a reason, and the wheel of baseball karma turns, if slowly. All the breaks that went Arizona’s way last year will most likely go the other in the coming year.

By Salty

February 14, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Scoots…that would be ‘misremembered dismemberment’? LOL! Say that three times!

By uga-brave

February 14, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

daybed,

the braves had that habit of scoring 7 runs one night and 2 the next.

well at least whoever hits leadoff has got to be better then willie harris was. the guy flat out struggled as soon as bobby started hitting him there. take out that 6 hit game against st. louis and his stats were downright scary.

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 14, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

T-hawkin — I skimmed the article and think it’s total bunk. Mets as #1? I don’t see how you can have as the #1 team a club that didn’t even make the playoffs last year, dealt away its prize prospect for a mediocre catcher and fair outfielder, even if they added the best pitcher in baseball.

These rankings seem to be an offseason report card as much as anything, so I wouldn’t worry too much about it. Rank the Mets #1? Fine with me. The bigger they come, the harder they fall.

After reading it I thought this Cat was Joking ranking The Rockies above Our Braves — seriously? The Rockies went to the World Series last year. The Braves didn’t make it to the playoffs. What’s not hard to understand about that?

By Tomahawkin

February 14, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

Daybed Dawg when I Said expect the same I was referring to those 1-run games, that got me all Fired up when we lost because of blown leads by Wickman among others in our Blow-pen

I was mainly making a general case of the close games we will have with the mets and phillies…Feels good to already be written off by ESPN, and the other markets. Guess we will have to “Creep On Ah Comeup”

As for not having A. Jones I don’t know why Bobby was so reluctant to move A. Jones down in the order last year, he’s my boy but he’s never been known as a clutch performer….

I’m Gonna miss That #25 patrolling center, I’ have to hang my Throwback A. Jones Jersey on my wall…

By Kentavo

February 14, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

I am excited about this season, but I still see plenty of “what-ifs” and potential holes.

We seem to have a surprise every year, ala Escobar last year.

But still plenty of question marks:

1. Can Escobar repeat last year or improve?
2. Can KJ make the backhand play?
3. Can Kotsay stay on the field?
4. How will team react without A.J. in centerfield for the first season in a decade?
5. Can Tex be the stud we hope he is?
6. Wait a minute, these are all the same things D.O.B. outlined is his preview article
7. Sorry
8. My bad

By mo in the boonies

February 14, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

This is probably old news but I didn’t get a chance to post on the last blog, so bear with me.

I watched the entire hearing yesterday, also read Pettitte’s deposition and Knoblock’s. There is no doubt in my mind that Clement was lying through his teeth. Also it didn’t seem to bother him to admit his wife used HGH, but he didn’t even know about it…ya, right! But he said, “”When she finally disclosed to him about taking it and about having an reaction to it”, (for two days) he didn’t see any need to take her to a Dr. Possibly because he knew from experience that the reaction would be short term, or perhaps he didn’t dare to take her to a Dr, and risk the press finding out that HGH was connected to him or his wife?

It would have been interesting to have Pettitte there to testify also, but reading his Deposition, he said his first shots were given to him by McNamee after he asked about the HGH and he told McNamee that Rodger had told him that McNamee had given Roger shots of HGH. He said that McNamee was really surprised that Roger had mentioned it, and was also mad that Roger had told Pettitte. The first time he asked McNamee to give him the shots, McNamee refused, told him he, ( meaning Pettitte) didn’t want to take the HGH. But then when Pettitte was paying McNamee to be his full time trainer, McNamee gave him the series of shots after Pettitte asked him to.

Pettitte told the investigators in his deposition that he hadn’t mentioned the second shots earlier because it involved his Dad. Apparently his Dad had been though a series of heart operations, and wasn’t recovering as well as he wished, so somehow he secured his own supply of HGH, and was treating himself. Andy Pettitte’s mom asked Andy to try to make his dad stop using the HGH, but he continued anyway. So when Andy had another arm problem, he felt guilty about taking so much money and not being able to do his job for the team, and he asked his Dad for a couple syringes of HGH. His Dad delivered them to him, and Andy gave himself the shots. They didn’t seem to help, and he felt guilty about doing it, and he never did it again.

When Pettitte’s deposition was finished, he asked if he could be excused from testifying in front of the committee, because he didn’t want to get on TV and tell the things about his Dad, and the Committee agreed he needn’t testify.

One thing I found touching and maybe a little naive, was Andy Pettitte, when replying to the question, “Did you tell anyone else about Roger telling you he took HGH?” Pettitte said, “No….well… I told my wife… I tell my wife everything.” I wonder how many baseball players can truthfully say that???

Sorry to make this post so long, but I have to comment on the congressional committee. Apparently Clements’s two day smoozing visits had an effect on many of the Republican members, (one wonders how many autographed balls and pictures he handed out on his visits.) as the questions seemed to follow party lines. Perhaps the Democrat members were not in their offices to receive the popular baseball player and his lawyers, when they came lobbying for their votes. The Committee members should have had the integrity to refuse to visit with Mr. Clements before he was due to testify before their committee. Apparently they did not!

I hope this will not be construed as a political statement, It meant it only to be a matter of truth. Brian McNamee is no hero figure, but I do believe what he said is the truth.

Jeb According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA, human growth hormone is legal for only 2 conditions; wasting syndrome of AIDS and Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD). The diagnosis of GHD must meet 2 very specific diagnosis criteria; If a person has a subnormal response to the growth hormone stimulation test and patients with GHD, either alone or along with multiple hormone deficiencies, as a result of disease of the pituitary, hypothalamic disease, surgery, radiation therapy or trauma or patients who were deficient of growth hormone as children.

No where in that statement do I see it is legal for the Fountain of youth, or to enhance ball players abilities.

By JEB

February 14, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

DOB looking at our pitching lineup (w/ plan B, C, & D),our bullpen, and with a full year with TEX (so much better at 4 spot than AJ) I thnk we can, at the least, expect another 10 - 14 wins over last year. That figures out to about 2 more wins a month. That would bring us 94 to 98 wins. Now the question is : Did the Mets or Phils add that number of wins over last years production? Is Santanna going to add that number of wins over what Glavine did for the Mets last year?

By Reality check for Mets fans

February 14, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

The Mets record the last 2 seasons when Tom Glavine starts: 42-24

The Twins record the last 2 seasons when Johan Santana starts: 44-23.

Johan Santana, the last 4 years against NL Central teams that score over 790 runs in a season: 14 wins, 15 losses. 3.32 ERA.

Johan Santana, the last 4 seasons against NL Central teams that score less than 790 runs in a season: 18 wins, 2 losses, 2.55 ERA.

Bully for him.

Unfortunately for Johan, he is headed to the NL East where the Braves, Marlins, Phillies all scored over 790 runs and where the Nats figure to have a much improved offense.

Johan will not be the difference maker you think he is gonna be.

By Mike S

February 14, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Tomahawkin, great reference. We’ll have to make sure there is “No Surrender” in this Braves team either.

By Tomahawkin

February 14, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Unless We come out Smoking 94-98 wins in this division? No Way…I’m saying 88-92 and that’s being modest, because 1-run games kicked our arse last year…

We seriously need to Beat up on those Jubroni teams in the Loser Central, because games against the N.L. West are not gonna be a walk in the park…

By David O'Brien

February 14, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

It is what is is. They are who we thought they were.

An elephant’s faithful, 100 percent.

Anyway (long day)….

T-hawkin’, the Rockies have a pretty dynamic young team, and they’re signing guys to long-term contracts, doing things the right way (finally).

That division will be awfully tough to win, but wouldn’t surprise me if the wild card came out of there. Then again, wouldn’t surprise me if it came out of the East or Central, either. All three divisions have multiple contending teams this year.

By Tomahawkin

February 14, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Mike S Which reference were you talking about? You wasn’t referring to my old Bone “Creep On A Comeup” theme from a song were you?

Santana is beatable, Only if we play A-B-C offense against him, That wait for the 3-run homer approach won’t work against him or Cole Hamels for that matter…

By bravesedandconfused

February 14, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

1st: Hampton must stay away from hot tubs as he’s been known to hurt his back getting out of them.

2nd: Gonzalez must not be allowed to brush his hair as this is what he was doing when he blew his arm out.

3rd: DOB should get $10 from the AJC for everytime he hears “Centerfield” and/or “It’s a small world”. (he should be able to afford to buy the Braves before opening day)

4th: A national writer picks a New York team to do well….really?…wow,that never happens.

5th and finally: didn’t Robert out “himself” last year as a group of guys on here just to irritate people with the contstant BC bashing? Is this a new Robert,did I miss something or what?

By Desert Brave

February 14, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

DOB: “They are who we thought they were.” That is just classic, especially for me… being from Az and all. Love it!

By Headlines

February 14, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Some things never change …. This team has always been a loser and nothing will change this year. Make sure you hide the ‘roids boys, the man is watching.

By The Truth

February 14, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Time for Cox to hang ‘em before they uncover his ‘roid usage. Oh yeah, he has always been a fat-a* has-been. Once a loser, always a loser. Leave already …..

By Mike S

February 14, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

Tomahawkin, of course. Hence my “No Surrender” reference back at you.

Speaking of Bone, they’re coming to the Roxy on March 12 for those wanting to relive a bit of the mid-90’s rap scene.

By ncscoots

February 14, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Santana is beatable, Only if we play A-B-C offense against him

Sorry, man, that is exactly NOT the way to approach Santana (or Hamels, either). If either is on his game, there will be fewer run-scoring opportunities for the opposition and a team needs to maximize each one of them. Giving up outs, playing for a small inning, and the like, is almost guaranteed to put you in a hole against a top-flight pitcher.

Gotta hang and bang against those guys; playing for a run won’t get it done.

By JC FROM UT

February 14, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

DOB:Will Javy take ground balls at firstbase, so he can give Tex a rare day off? Of course this would mean Thorman does not make the team. Also, have you heard anything about anyone being interested in Thorman and/or Brayan Pena?

By Bryan

February 14, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

I am surprised about all the predictions that rank the Phillies and Mets offense higher than the Braves … I am assuming it’s because most people didn’t SEE Escobar like most of us did … and maybe some people don’t know KJ like we know KJ … but still … a whole year of Tex … and what is Chipper - Tomahawk Chop Liver?

I think this is going to be a watershed year for the Braves … contracts feeing up … we are going to have some money to spend … i just hope we can spend it the right way - i am not sure if a 18 (or 19, 20, 20+)mil a year for Tex is worth it, and I LOVE Tex …

Kinoki foot pads … you guys seen those commercials ? ? ? they draw the toxins out of your feet … I heard chipper has been using those for the past year and only made up the shoe size to avoid news of his ancient Japanese healing secret.

By mo in the boonies

February 14, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

One more scary point about yesterday’s hearing. These people on this committee are the ones who are entrusted with overseeing our Airport security.

By Tomahawkin

February 14, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

Mike S Damn Dude, Don’t tell me that, I live 1000 miles away, but Man I’d to see them out. They came to a frat-party at the school I go to up here back in 05, but It was So thick I could bearly see them…

Man I’m ready for the exhibition games, I will only get to see the ones that are aired on ESPN so that sucks, I get to be drowned out by those Horrible ESPN commentators…

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

February 14, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

Is there really anybody out there who thinks Clemens could be innocent? Pleeeeeeeeeeeease! People, get real and use your brains.

Why would Andy Petitte lie? Does this assclown really expect people to believe that McNamee injected his wife with HGH without his knowledge and he didn’t get upset about it and furthermore just let it go? Does Clemens really expect us to believe that Petitte “misremembered” him saying he used HGH? Are we really to believe that McNamee, Petitte, Chuck Knoblauch, Mike Stanton, and Clemens’ nanny all conspired to lie about him?

Are people really this stupid?

By Ray

February 14, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

DOB, I would like to say that I appreciate your work on the blog and all the time that you spend with us. You’re blog is definitely the best. I don’t comment much, but have been reading a lot about your musical tastes. I like a lot of the older artists like the Beatles, Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, ect. I can’t seem to find any new music that really compares to these. Maybe you can throw some suggestions this way, if you get a chance. Also, wanted to ask you if you like the Beach Boys? The new Arcade Fire CD you talked about late last year was awesome. Thanks

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

February 14, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

No doubt, Mo. I swear those Republican congressmen should have just showed up in Roger Clemens’ jerseys. That couldn’t have indicated their bias anymore than their reprehensible behavior yesterday. I thought the female representative from New York was going to flash her boobs to Clemens and then have him sign one of them right then and there. It was just sickening.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

February 14, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Neither the Mets nor the Phillies have the breadth and depth of pitching possessed by the Braves. In fact , no other team in the entire N.L has as much quality pitching when compared side to side with Atlanta.

I mean , name another team besides the Braves that can field ten starters ? You can’t , period.

Remember , it is a 162 game marathon not a sprint.

The only real concern I have is the injury bug and lack of depth on the left side of the infield. Other than that , this team looks solid.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

February 14, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Also, is it me or does Henry Waxman (D-Ca) look like the mayor of Whoville?

By Tomahawkin

February 14, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

NCSCOOTS

I meant smallball offense when I referred to A-B-C, I’ve heard Al Hrabosky refer to this style of offense. A means get him on base, b Means get him over, C Means get him in

In other words be agressive on the basepaths, I have a feeling the lack of team speed is really gonna come back us in games against the mets and phils when there is no comparison among which teams are lacking in speed among the 3…But I’am ready for those matchups especailly at CBP and Shea, I think the fan atmosphere is much better at those places, but nothing beats the TED in October only if we’re playing…

By Tomahawkin

February 14, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

Man I’m So tired of hearing about Clemens, It’s another Barroid Bond’s Saga part 2, I guess ESPN Will have to make a show about Clemens much like they did for Bonds, actually nevermind they already did…It will air in an hour…

The Man Is A cheat, and furthermore a douche, Nuff said

Further evidence look at Roger Clemens 80’s baseball cards, I did that about a month ago and there’s no comparision…

Lets get on with the games!

By Capt. Caveman

February 14, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

I wonder how Clemens really feels about Petite.

I bet its a little chilly around them.

By Tomahawkin

February 14, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

(Robert) I thought the same thing about those Repubican congressman, they made me want to start throwing things at the TV, Instead I just cussed it out…

McNamee is no saint, but if It was a real hearing, Petitte and his wife/Canseco/Knoblauch/among others would have been in attendance

By QueensMetsfan

February 14, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

Reality check for Mets fans:

You conveniently left out that in the AL, a superior offensive league, that Santana led baseball in era, strikeouts and wins. Oh, and Santana has won the Cy Young twice in the last 4 years. There is a reason he’s called the best pitcher in baseball. Not Smoltz, not Glavine, not Hudson, but Santana.

Additionally, factor in A) He is moving the NL with the weaker line-ups and will be facing a pitcher 2 or 3 times B) Will be playing in a pitchers ballpark C) Will have a more much potent offense providing run support with three perennial MVP candidates in the lineup D) Will have a much better defense, including the best up the middle defense in the NL;

and you have a formidable baseball team. A team that can beat you with pitching, defense, speed and offense. The Mets are a team with questions like every team, but with no apparent weaknesses.

Finally, Santana is coming to a team that was in first place more or less the past two seasons. And this was a team with Pedro Martinez on the DL the last season and a half. With Pedro Martinez replacing the revolving door of the Limas, Chan Ho Parks and Brian Lawrences, and Santana, a tremendous upgrade over Glavine, you are going to be facing a team which was a good team in 2006 and 2007 and is now a dominant team in 2008. Santana was the last piece the Mets needed.

THAT is why the Mets are predicted to win the division and is one of the elite teams in baseball.

By Luther

February 14, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

*By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

February 14, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Also, is it me or does Henry Waxman (D-Ca) look like the mayor of Whoville?*

Thanks. I couldn’t place it yesterday, I was thinking Hans Moleman from the Simpsons, but I knew that wasn’t right.

By Hunk Erdown

February 14, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

Man, I remember last year thinking at the start that we were gonna be looking real good to get back to the post season. Then Hampton and Gonzalez went down. I guess you have to expect to have that kind of thing happen every year or so, the difference is that we some depth and realistic expectations this year.

Tomahawkin

You are absolutely correct about the 1 run losses last year. Seemed like Smoltzie suffered a whole bunch of no decisions and losses because we couldn’t get him a run or two. As someone else said already though, I truly believe that Tex will do a lot to change those numbers. I too will miss those “highlight reel” plays from Andruw but not only will Tex pick up Andruw’s slack on offense he will help Chipper to shine a little brighter too, hopefully.

I mentioned this the other day and I don’t guess Chipper has been back to answer any questions, but I think that having Tex bat behind Chipper instead of Andruw will cause less stress, wear, and tear on the body for Chipper. Especially against right handed pitchers, it seemed like Andruw hit a ton of grounders to short and second causing Chipper to have to sacrifice himself busting up the double plays. If thats true, having, #1- a “better” hitter and #2- a lefthanded hitter will help Chipper stay more upright on the basepaths. Think thats a stretch? I’m an ex-player (only went as far as College and all-Navy west coast) and don’t think its a stretch at all… again, I’d love to hear what Chipper says about it. It was a more unique situation in Andruw’s case than normal because Chipper get’s on base a lot, and Andruw just had an un-natural knack for hitting into double plays… It was a friggin plague, seemingly.

One other thing… You guys are blessed to have someone as good as DOB running the blog and have a pretty darn group of denizens aboard, don’t take it for granted… I hang out a lot on the UGA board and it is plum pitiful over there. Nothing against Chip Towers, its just that DOB really goes above and beyond the call of duty to get ya’ll some material over here and works hard to stay in and on top of the blogs. Plus, folks just love to hate UGA… we have a lot of “fans’ that make us easy to hate.

By Tomahawkin

February 14, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

About those one run losses, Many out side of Atlanta don’t give enough props to the jobs Smoltzie and Huddy did last year, with better luck both could’ve won 18-20 games a piece

Many on the phillies forum, are saying that Huddy had a mediocre 07 season, but they fail to understand that many of Huddy’s starts ended up resulting in No Decisions because of the bullpen, it seem like he was the guy on the losing side of a game that could’ve been won but was lost…

By Braveheart

February 14, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

Hunkerdown Chipper and Andruw actually hit into the same amount of double plays per 162 for their careers.

Chipper’s DPs however seem to come from his approach of being balanced and hitting the ball up the middle and adjusting depending upon pitch location.

Unfortunately, the pitcher makes his pitch sometimes, and Chipper ends up knocking it up the middle to a middle infielder shaded up and in towards second because there is a man on base.

When Andruw’s pull happy a@@ did it however it looked particularly awful because he would be fed outside pitches that he would try to pull like a bonehead and he would just hit feeble ground balls to the shortstop or third baseman.

So, although they actually hit into the same amount of double plays it is just far more aggravating when Andruw does it because of how it comes about with Andruw’s poor approach.

By McFann

February 14, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

I’m concerned about the injury bug, too, Coach.

Oh yeah, Hunk Erdown, Andruw Jones was a double-play machine. Now, heh heh…he was third on the team behind Chipper and McCann, but he seemed to hit into more when the Braves were in a tough spot.

Tomahawkin, you are sooo correct about Timmy’s luck. Half of Wickman’s blown saves were when Hudson pitched. And on April 4, he gave up only one run and got an ND.

DOB, speakin’ of McCann (In my third sentence there)…how’s he lookin’ this spring, eh?

8 )

By mr baseball

February 14, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

Today’s question: who has the worst case of unbridled optimism/hope/fantasy?

1) Baseball fans on the opening day of Spring Training.

2) Idealistic political neophytes enraptured by a Barack Obama speech.

3) A male teenager with exploding hormones fixated on a revealing photo of Marisa Miller.

My money is on 2. At least 1 & 3 know what they’re ga-ga about.

“Look in my eyes/What do you see?/The cult of personality.”

Probably have to vote for him in November, but with no more idea of what to expect from him than the Braves do regarding Hampton.

Wake me up when the first exhibition game begins and the Ohio/Texas primaries are over.

By TBraveFan

February 14, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

“The true harbinger of spring - the sound of a bat on a ball”

ahhhhhhhhhhh…..finally

By Murphy

February 14, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

Anyone know the word on Ryan Drese? He pitched well in relief a couple of years ago…

By The Goche (A.J.)

February 14, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

On the rankings linked by Tomahawkin:

I think some of that stuff he said was the “conventional wisdom” stuff that really is only accepted as true because people repeat it, not based on the facts.

Things like: “They cannot match the offense of the Mets and Phillies.”

The Braves were third in the NL in runs last year, the Phillies were better, the Mets slightly worse. Tied the Mets and bested the Phillies in AVG. OPS was the same as the Mets.

The Braves offense is at least as good as the Mets, and while Reyes and Wright still may be improving, guys like Delgado are declining. I think the Braves (without Andruw sinking them) may actually be consistent. No more one week of scoring 10 runs a game followed by 2 weeks of scoring like 2 a day.

The Phillies may be better because of their stars, though they aren’t great top to bottom. And consider this, they put up the numbers they did last year with about 5 different players having career years. They certainly can repeat that, but it wouldn’t take much for them to come down a little bit, to about the same level as the Braves and Mets. Plus, their pitching staff doesn’t even compare to the Braves or Mets.

Another instance of the conventional wisdom is that the Braves need Hampton to compete in the division, and that just isn’t true.

Makes one wonder why noone is talking about how much the Mets need Pedro to stay healthy. Pedro started 23 games and 5 games in the last two seasons.

If Pedro makes close to or more than 30 starts, then they will be real real tough to beat. But can you really assume that. Without him they are still good, but no runaway favorite.

But if Hampton starts even 20 games and anywhere near what he was when he got hurt, the Braves are pretty freakin good as well.

My question is, why do the rankings always assume Pedro will make 30 starts, but the Braves will stink without Hampton.

We may not be perfect, but even without Hampton, we will be miles ahead of where we were last year (pitching wise).

The conventional wisdom says the Braves are the third best team, but if guys Escobar, Johnson and Diaz are as good as we think then you can forget all that.

We may or may not win, but we certainly will compete, I think right to the end. I think that this division could have all three in contention right into the last series of the year.

By mr baseball

February 14, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

DOB:

Forgot to include this in previous post. Kudos on the song selection. May be the finest written debut album by any singer/songwriter ever. How in the world did someone come up with all those brilliant efforts the first time out? Hard to listen to Bonnie Raitt’s version of the song and not get a little emotional.

Next time we get some more bad news out of Iraq, maybe trot out “Sam Stone.” Different war, same sentiment.

By Braveheart

February 14, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

Tim Hudson got 5.69 run support last year. Hard to complain about lack of luck. And, yeah, Wickman and the pen blew 2 or 3 games but the pen and the lineup also gave him two or three wins he did not deserve. He pitched really good but let’s cut the woe is Tim crap.

By ka

February 14, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

Trade Hampton for a couple of bats and a bag of balls.

By Skip

February 14, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

Can anyone explain the infield fly rule to me?

By Capt. Caveman

February 14, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this

Skip

If you have runners on first and second OR bases loaded with less than 2 outs the ump will call an infield fly if the infielder can catch the ball anywhere in the infield or on the outer fringes leading into the outfield. This rule prevents the fielder from letting the ball drop and getting an easy double play. However it is not a dead ball so the runners can do whatever they want to. They are not in jeopardy of being doubled off base if the ball is not caught. Once it is called the batter is automatically out , regardless.

By 30yrBravesFan

February 14, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

DOB, never blogged before but read your stuff all the time. It’s great! Just wanna say, Hooooeeeee!!! Pitchers and Catchers reported!

GoBraves!

By N8

February 14, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

Jeb

Your 4:05 post is a pretty good assessment, I’d say. About both us and the Mets.

I really, really feel like we improved our club from last year. I’m not sure if it’s 10-14 wins like you said, but hey! Why not? If Chuck (or whoever is in the 4-hole of the rotation), pitches above .500, you may be right.

As for the Mets. Since not too many pitchers in the last 20 years have had many more victories than 20, and Johan has only done it once in his career (and the Twins weren’t a horrible offensive club the past few years).

I’m not sure that even Johan giving them 20 wins (7 more than Glavine last year).

So let’s assume that Johan is good for 5-7 more wins for the Mets, the Braves “moves” would have to AT LEAST be worth 11 more wins to catch up to them (12 more to catch the Phils).

If Hampton is healthy (and close to what he was before), I’d say it’s close.

The fun of it, is that so many other things will factor in along the way (they always do). But “on paper” I’d say we’ve done enough to catch them, SURELY enough to compete with them.

Before the Johan trade, it wasn’t even close, IMO.

We’ll see.

(PS: Good to see you posting about stuff other than sticking up for HGH - it’s the time of the year when baseball talk should be about the game - not the problems the game have. That period OFFICIALLY ended in my book, yesterday. LOL!)

Play ball!

By nochahoma

February 14, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

Expecting great things this year. Tomorrow morning I’m headed out the door about 4:30 am (live in Jax, Fl) for the Braves camp.

My spring ritual, the juices are flowing. Love to go and watch the first official workout.

Hope Hampton is good to go but I like the fact we do not have to depend on him this year.

By ncscoots

February 14, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this

Capt, believe that was a joke by “Skip”, but thanks, anyway. You can NEVER have the infield fly rule explained too often!

Braveheart, what’s wrong with you? Don’t you know that without bad luck EVERY Braves’ starter would have won 20, no wait, 30, yeah, THIRTY starts last year? In the blog universe, no Braves’ pitcher ever hits the mound without his A game, is never overmatched, and never, ever has “just a bad outing”. No, sir. Only bad luck derails our Bravos’ pitchers, LOL.

By Smoky Joe Wood

February 14, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

From the same self-titled John Prine album as “Angel from Montgomery”, one of the best songs ever about a love gone bad. “Far Away From Me”:

“We used to laugh together, And we’d dance to any old song, Ya know, she still laughs with me, But she waits just a second too long.”

By Capt. Caveman

February 14, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

N8

I agree with you on the wins the Bravos have picked up through their offseason moves. One thing to remember is that some of those wins picked up will be against the Mutts and Phools so that would bring them even closer to the top. As we all know the closer the race the more pressure to perform and that will have an affect on performance. Hopefully it will be the other teams that will choke.

By Capt. Caveman

February 14, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this

ncscoots

I wish I had known it was a joke, I would have explain it more hilariously.

Hey — has anybody seen Renegator on here lately??

By 30YrBravesFan

February 14, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

DOB - Great Blogs! Chipper is Definitely the Man for talking with us,

And GO BRAVES!!!

By David O'Brien

February 14, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

JC from UT, I really don’t get a sense that they have any desire to play Javy at 1B. Just the vibe I’m getting, though haven’t heard it directly.

By David O'Brien

February 14, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this

Smoky, that’s a brilliant verse. Again, I’m amazed Prine was only 24 when he put out that amazing debut album.

By 3trees

February 14, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this

Good stuff. Another great song too. One thing, unless someone’s already got it - its “…broken down dam” not dance (I guess this could be a variation, but in the original its dam. And Heck Yeah, MR. B, an amazing first record).

Heading down to FLA tomorrow, but will only make it as far as Tally for my Pop’s 91st BDay.

I’m really rooting for Bennett. Liked his stuff a lot and he went right after guys.

Spring is great! Bought a new set of cleats (now that’s hope). Should re-lace my glove, but…

Go Braves!

By BT

February 14, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

Reuters is reporting Bonds flunked a steroid test in 2001 after the 73 HR season. Fox News has it also.

By Josh C

February 14, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

Evening all. Haven’t posted in a while but read the blogs pretty frequently. Would’ve loved to have been logged on when Chipper was here. Unbelievably cool that he would hop on here unrequested.

I know this blog is about Hampton, but I saw an interesting stat in the Sporting News (hope this isn’t redundant): Braves pitchers last year had a 3.87 ERA when Brian McCann was catching but a 4.96 ERA when he wasn’t. Good thing we didn’t move him to first base… I think that speaks volumes to his value behind the plate.

Here’s to a big comeback year for the Bravos!

By David O'Brien

February 14, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this

Josh C, feel free to comment about any Braves subject — or just about any other subject, period — any time you feel like it. We’re not tied to the blog topic. Besides, today’s blog only had a small item about Hampton.

By McFann

February 14, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

“Redundant”? “Redundant? Why, don’t be silly, Josh! That’s a great stat!! Feel free to mention that any time at all!!

8 )

But seriously: I don’t think there was ever a thought of moving McCann to first base. That just uh…well it wouldn’t work. You’re correct: He’s gotta lotta value behind the plate. And I don’t know…I just can’t picture him at first base…

Anyway, I can’t wait for the season to get started and to see what we get from our Braves (and our numero uno everyday catcher : ) ).

By Josh C

February 14, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB. All the praise you get on here is well deserved. Your work is first class sir. I know you get tons of e-mail but on the off-chance you remember I’m the guy in Cleveland who went all three games at the Jake last year with my little dude in his Francoeur jersey. Great series. I stopped blogging right about the time all the silly drama was happening with a few blog-dominating folks a few months’ back. Wasn’t put off or anything, just got busy and the season ended.

Anyhow thanks for acknowledging my post. I’ll try to bring what little I have to the table and contribute when I can. Keep the news coming!

By uga-brave

February 14, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

scoots,

your 7:15 was right on. i know you are a clemson fan, and though i dont know you i was thinking about you on sunday.

clemson 0-6 from the line while the heels shot 25 plus free ones pretty much summed it up. if not that night who knows when, at leat bowden seemed to get a great haul.

Hunke Rdown, always great to have a dawg-brave diehard around.

By Teach

February 14, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

Montreal Expos still dominate Hotlanta, and you hillbillys should bend dowto Habs inside/out site, Montreal Rules.

By Matt the Brave

February 14, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

THANK GOD IT’S BASEBALL SEASON!! I hate hockey and the Hawks are almost in the tank again. Yup, it’s baseball time!

By A-ville Ranger

February 14, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

It’s been awhile since I thought of Prine,good choice”if dreams were thunder,lightning was desire” is as good as lyrics get.While I’m on music I’m revisiting highway 61 as I type.The song ”subterranean homesick blues”is playing. Does anybody hear Skeltonic verse in there?(a real three beatnik)anyway that song bridges Skelton,Hip Hop and maybe a bit of Valdimir Linin as well….Oh yea, go Braves.

By David O'Brien

February 14, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

Josh C, sorry I missed you and the youngster in Cleveland. That was a good series, and good weather if I remember correctly. Warm, but not rain?

By McFann

February 14, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

That’s what’s boring about those other forums on the AJC (no offense Mark, Terrence, and Ferman)—the people who post there always stick to the blog’s original topic. But here, you cann pretty much talk about anything (except hatred of Bobby Cox).

Thanks for the new blog, BTW, DOB.

GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!

By Josh C

February 14, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

Perfect weather and the Braves won two of three. Huge game one comeback over CC in the ninth. Yunel had a huge hit. Two run double I believe. Carlyle pitched great that day then signed a ball for my boy during bp the next. Great weekend.

By Capt. Caveman

February 14, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

McFann

No doubt about that. If your looking for a blog where the subject and the tangents/rants/and general off-topic comments can co-exist — then you have found your spot.

Just remember to wear a CUP!!

By JJMB

February 14, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

JEB, my response to you from the Dave’s last blog, about HGH.

You wrote, JJMB - you said it correctly “HGH promotes new cell growth”. Of course it is common for someone in their twenties! But, those in their late 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, 60’s etc. also want new cell growth. It is what keeps us young. Now, who wants to get old, weak, sick … Are you going to line up for that!

Well sure, I would line up for a fountain-of-youth miracle drug. Problem is, there just ain’t such a thing. You don’t get something for nothing. There is always a price to pay.

As far as my comment about new cell growth for old cells. What is cancer? Uncontrollable, abnormal cell growth. What happened to Lyle Alzado? As a 40yo trying to make a NFL comeback, he took mega doses of HGH. Then his brain became rife with malignant tumors. I’ll pass on letting an unproven cell-growing machine loose inside my body.

No thanks to amatuer bio-engineering for me. I’ll age as gracefully as I can, then die as we all will.

Of course, you’ll find many “clinics” that will inject you gleefully. Best of luck with all of that.

By avlbrave

February 14, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

i have a funny feeling…or i guess i’m hoping… we’ll see similar results of the braves acquisition from detroit (Jurrjens) as in the past, when we got some dude named Smoltz.

By David O'Brien

February 14, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

JJMB, thanks for spelling that out so succinctly for our HGH enthusiast, including the example. Perfect. That’s what I was hoping someone would be able to say (wish I had said it). Well done.

By David O'Brien

February 14, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

Cpt. Caveman, wearing a cup is helpful, but strapping on the leotard is also fundamental….

There sure are a lot worse places to ride a motorcycle at 6 p.m. than these old two-lane roads around Kissimmee and Haines City on a 70-degree cloudless February day, with the sun setting over the cypress trees. Not to make any of you in chilly climes jealous or anything.

By Braint

February 14, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

I’m so excited for a new season! Prine was only 24 when he put out that album? Where is all the song writing talent today? Sampling other people’s music and more worried about image than substance. Would Janis Joplin make it today because she wasn’t ideal for a music video? Patsy Cline has acne so she probably wouldn’t have been an ideam magazine cover photo.

By BrandonC

February 14, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

I’m getting excited about Bennett, we may have found a special player who kinda fell thru the cracks. He seems really focused and determined to leave ST with a rotation spot. Losing 50 pounds is no easy task, and it shows me he is serious about being a big part of this team. Heck, the entire rotation is looking good to me. I can’t wait to see some games.

By Newman

February 14, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

DOB, Nice Prine song, have you heard the Bonnie Rait/Prine duet? But Prine’s Paridise, now that is a song.

Go Braves

By JJMB

February 14, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Dave.

By Capt. Caveman

February 14, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

DOB

I used to live in Orlando on the northside. Have you had the chance to visit any of the Cheers bars down there?? They are a true fans/sports bar and their is always plenty of spirited debate. You should also try a steakhouse place on International Drive. I forget the name but they serve some seriously HUGE steaks. It’s a large building, I think it’s white, and the sign SCREAMS beef!!!

By Capt. Caveman

February 14, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

It might be Charley’s Steak House, but I’m not sure. When I was there they had one of those specials “It’s so big that one man can’t eat it but if you do it’s FREE!!”

I did but it hurt like a beeatcchh!!

By HollywoodChop

February 14, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this

Spring training begins! I am really excited about the rotation and seeing Javy and Tommy back around. Looks like we are having continued strength with our brothers from down under. I am so excited and this is why…

I lost my job last fall as I had subscribed to mlb.com and became addicted to watching games on my computer at work. The Bravos generally threw out first pitch around 4:00 out here so I was useless for the last two hours of the day. It was worth it. Work sucks and the Braves will be back. I remember those days sitting in Fulton County Stadium cheering for Horner and Murphy. It was tough being a ball player and growing up with America’s losing team but lo and behold everything changed in high school (‘91). So now I am constantly defending the Bravos out here in LA. We will be back. Hampton will be healthy and if not, the roataion will bring us into October again.

I am just glad I do not live in Queens. Enjoy your last year at Shea. We are all watching Santana. It’s not like you guys blew it last year or anything.

GO BRAVES!

By Capt. Caveman

February 15, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

YO Hollywood

Looks like u and I will be late night on the blog this year. I too got in hot water with my job for the sports and for the bloggin’.

By Moby Grape

February 15, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this

That body-language expert really gave Roger a seriously failing grade, from the very first thing he did to the very last he was full of ‘tells’. Don’t forget kiddies when you next get sworn in do not tuck your thumb under your fingers or they will know that you are planning to fib. and Yahoo Sports has a story that Mrs Canseco and Mrs Clemens were in the house at the party comparing their store-bought frontal endowments. Some party I guess,CLICK HERE

By TexasBrave

February 15, 2008 12:55 AM | Link to this

Man I love the depth we have this year in our starting rotation. So many options. It is good to hear about how Bennett is coming into this year gunning for a starting spot. I really wonder if Chucky is sweating or not about his spot. I say it is his to loose.

I had previously mentioned that if Bennett does not win a starting spot that I would love to see him in the long reliever/spot starter role. Although I still see that as a possibility I mainly said that so we could keep him on the roster. Now that he has options, if he does not win a rotation spot would it not be best to send him down so he can keep working as a starter? He has got be seen as a future starter for when the veterans hang it up or go down. He should continue in the starter role gaining valuable experience.

I would like to suggest instead using Blain Boyer as the long reliever/spot starter and he is out of options. I remember reading that he had gotten some starts and did fairly well.

Well just wanted to contribute something to start building some endurance in my fingers as we get to the start of Spring Training and looking forward to the start of the season!

By uga-brave

February 15, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this

DOB,

all you jerry sienfeld fans out there will get this. you guys watcted the clemens hearings,right.

kramer, when he was convinced there was a race of pigmen being bred.

look no further then the great senator, WAXMAN. oink, oink.

By HollywoodChop

February 15, 2008 1:10 AM | Link to this

Clemens, go sit some place and shut it already. Andy ate his humble pie and you think he “misremeberedrerdrerd”.

It’s on Captain.

By Moby Grape

February 15, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this

Reuters is reporting Bonds flunked a steroid test in 2001 after the 73 HR season. Fox News has it also.

Mistake by the Feds. He really failed in Nov. 2000 b4 the record season, that one was already reported.CLICK HERE

By Capt. Caveman

February 15, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this

Good deal Chop!!

By uga-brave

February 15, 2008 1:33 AM | Link to this

the best offensive team in the division is the PHILLIES. they may not have the pitching, but they will score runs.

rollins,victorino, and utley are a great combination. the first two will combine for 100 sb’s this year.

heyward, burrell, and the newly acquired feliz, will combine 90 dingers.

then they got geoff jenkins to platoon in right. their only weakness might be at catcher.

ask smoltz if he likes pitching in that small-park.

that team is going to lead the N.L. in runs.

they will give up a ton of runs, but it is going to be hard to beat them there.

rollins, victorino, and utley. tons of speed and power.

reyes, castiilo, beltran. not bad either.

so WHO do we hit one, two that can compete with that?

no matter who we hit one or two are not going to be base stealers, so they better be high .obp guys.

our real strength is chipper,tex, and then what?

offensively this season depends on FRANCOEUR, and b’macc becoming stars. we know what HOSS will give us, we know what TEX, will give us, but the GWINNETT all- stars have to improve on their .750 .ops.

5,6, and 7 are the the keys to this team.

our bullpen should be very good. heck it was third in the N.L. last year.

the key is consistency within the offense.

we need jeff, brian, and kelly to step up and become stars.

By uga-brave

February 15, 2008 2:35 AM | Link to this

SIDEBAR,

anyone that has blogged here all summer knows that i have been very critical of our current economy, stock market, and housing market.

said in july to watch out and some scoffed, said in august to protect your 401’ks.

been in the game a long time, i know this is not the place for this but the CURRENT FED CHAIRMAN is in over his head.

the FED is always behind the curve in a normal slow down.

this one is different. citibank, ubs, jp morgan, baer stearns, merrill lynch, have no idea what their trading loses are.

current fed funds are at 3%, they should be at 1%. it happened in japan we are headed there.

wall street packaged all those NO DOC loans sold them created cdo’s and now that the real estate market has stagnated, there aint nobody on the other side.

i know on this blog i might sound like a idiot b.s ing you guys, but why is GOLD at $900 oz.

three years ago it was $350.

maybe someone knows something.

i trade currency for a living, why i always post late.

the dollar is in the gutter because of the price of oil.

debt is debt. why do you think the price of milk, corn, and other commodities are going up.

O.K. sorry to bore everybody or scare everybody, there definitely is a pre-requisite to buy the market when it is down 15% or more, but this is the first time when the financials are shaky. in the finacs i mean our BANKS.

By uga-brave

February 15, 2008 2:41 AM | Link to this

that had no place on this blog, my apoligies.

By uga-brave

February 15, 2008 3:07 AM | Link to this

the biggest baddest guy on the block aint so. you guys ever been elsewhere our dollar aint the same.

By Capt. Caveman

February 15, 2008 3:08 AM | Link to this

actually uga, I rather enjoyed that. Besides it’s 3:00am, and a couple of shots of the good stuff will getcha going.

Always like to support my fellow DAWGS!!!

By uga-brave

February 15, 2008 3:16 AM | Link to this

thank you caveman

By uga-brave

February 15, 2008 3:27 AM | Link to this

caveman,

if you are are true dawg you know BROOKS HALL, have given a couple of lame speeches to under-grads there.

i matriculated in caldwell hall. did late night studies there. the food machine in CALDWELL always had RUDYS FARMS and chocOlate milk.

By Capt. Caveman

February 15, 2008 3:52 AM | Link to this

uga

I haven’t been on campus in over 20 yrs except for games. I was actually encouraged to seek my education elsewhere due to my excessive embrace of the “party life”.

Now I’m not sure if that makes me a TRUE dawg but it definitely makes me ALL DAWG!!

By William

February 15, 2008 5:12 AM | Link to this

DOB Do the Braves hold Spring Training full squad workout on the weekends?

By LOST-BRAVE

February 15, 2008 5:32 AM | Link to this

WHEN IT’S HOT IN HOTLANTA WE WILL SEE IF WE GET 600 INNINGS OUT OF OUR TOP THREE OLDIE GOLDIES, AND I JUST PRAY FOR 9 INNINGS OUT OF OUR LONG LOST HAMPTON,CAN ANY BODY TAKE A JOKE? WE SHOULD BE O.K. AS LONG AS EVERY ONE STAY’S HEALTHY, I’M JUST REALLY MORE WORRIED ABOUT SCORING RUN’S THAN THE PITCHING AND DEFENCE RIGHT NOW,OH, BY THE WAY WITH ALL OF THE STERIOD TALK, IF ANY OF OUR GUY’S WERE EVEN THINKING ABOUT TAKING THE JUNK, WOULD IT NOT COST THE BRAVES MORE FOR THE XXXLARGE HAT’S, AND UNIFORM’S JUST A SILLY THOUGHT. BYE NOW

By Metropolitan Man

February 15, 2008 6:34 AM | Link to this

2008 Lineup made by Willie, Omar, and Wilpon:

1 JOSE “get on base anyway you can” REYES 2 LUIS “bunt baby bunt” CASTILLO 3 DAVID “drive’em in” WRIGHT 4 CARLOS “belt another homer” BELTRAN 5 CARLOS “dig deeper” DELGADO 6 MOISES “sweet” ALOU 7 RYAN “double the pleasure” CHURCH 8 BRAIN “throw’em out” SCHNEIDER” 9 Insert pitcher here:

PEDRO “im back baby” MARTINEZ JOHAN “2007 wasnt my fault” SANTANA JOHN “15 game winner” MAINE OLIVER “dont listen to Boras” PEREZ ORLANDO “they call me El Duque” HERNANDEZ MIKE “put me in coach” PELFREY

Can you feel the excitement?????

EVERYBODY TOGETHER NOW,

LETS GO METS LETS GO METS

By bob

February 15, 2008 7:12 AM | Link to this

OK, forgive me, but I have been wondering…. what is DOB referring to when he says “Dark Star”? I know about the song. Does he mean the practice facility, the town, what?

By ncgary

February 15, 2008 7:15 AM | Link to this

ugabrave research majeure force & 6900 protocols, now thats scary and that is what will happen after the fed chairman determines that the interest on the nations debt has overcame revenues, the debt since 2003 when david walker us comptroller general declared it unsustainable unless current budgets were lowered, he guestimated 2009 the debt would go from unsustainable to unserviceable, thats when majeure force would have to e announced by the secretary of the treasury, this would happen around 12.30 pm when all other world markets are closed and when the least amount of traders are on the floor, later that evening the president would then put the 6900 protocols into force and declare martial law that evening around 9 pm est, scary indeed , plausible soon ? very

By richbrave

February 15, 2008 7:57 AM | Link to this

uga-brave:

Should we buy Braves tickets now before stagflation makes them unaffordable? I’m with you. Scary.

By David O'Brien

February 15, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

Clubhouse hasn’t opened yet, sitting here looking out from pressbox and guess who’s running the stairs: Bennett.

Dude is SERIOUS about this conditioning thing.

Glavine’s meeting with reporters at 8:45 a.m., team meeting at 9:30, workout at 10 a.m.

By 22oz

February 15, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

bob, DOB is referring to Disney’s Wide World of Sports, a place that holds a very, um, corporate, place in his heart.

By David O'Brien

February 15, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this

uga-brave, i posted this last night about 2:45 a.m. Rather, I hit post. I see this morning it didn’t make it to the board, for whatever reason. But here it was, just so you know I was paying attention:

uga-brave: quick story for you about gold. I sold commodity options in the late 1980s (hey, I wanted to live in LA for a year, what can I say? I was young and stupid, so I did it. had the job 10 months, then got back into my current profession).

Anyway, I can remember many times urging customers to buy gold, though honestly the price hadn’t moved significantly in years and the options always seemed to expire without making them any money. It was just something that was relatively easy to sell at the time (like oil was).

I read what you said about the price of gold, and couldn’t help but wonder how much some of those unfortunate souls who bought gold options from me back then might actually have made if they’d done so in today’s market.

OK, that’s it. Was just coming to turn off the computer when I saw your post and thought I’d mention that. (Now I realize it wasn’t much of a story, or maybe it’s too late for me to tell a good story. Anyway, I’ll say goodnight now Gracie. Goodnight.)

By Overlord

February 15, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

DOB you think JJJ is better than Jeff B.? Cause i see people are voting he is the best option for end of rotation.

By Braveheart

February 15, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball I get what you are saying about the unbridled optimism surrounding Obama and spring training. It reminds me of that Cobain vs. Grohl debate the other day. It also reminds me of Reagan and JFK. There is just the magical “it” factor involved for many Americans with Obama, Cobain, JFK, Reagan, and spring training.

There may be more accomplished and better politicians and decision makers than Obama, Reagan, and JFK, there may be more accomplished and better musicians than Cobain, there may be better sports than baseball, but I think Reagan, Obama, JFK, Cobain, and baseball speak to our better sides and cause us to hope.

To be honest, however, they are all flawed. I have no idea what Obama is really about kind of like I never really understood what the hell the lyrics were that Cobain was singing. Sometimes I feel like Obama’s speech writers are just ripping material out of one of the Aaron Sorkin scripts from The West Wing. I didn’t like all of Reagan’s policies and decisions. I didn’t like all of JFK’s policies and decisions or the way he conducted himself with women. I didn’t like that Cobain was a drug addict that killed himself. And I don’t like the many self inflicted black eyes and broken hearts baseball can’t seem to avoid.

However, they are the right thing or right people with the right message at the right time. Spring training, Reagan, Obama, and JFK deal more directly with the message of providing hope. Cobain didn’t but ironically provided hope to many about the way rock and roll used to be and should always be.

I’m not making much sense. James Earl Jones explained the way I am thinking about all of them much better in Field of Dreams.

Ray, people will come Ray. They’ll come to Iowa for reasons they can’t even fathom. They’ll turn up your driveway not knowing for sure why they’re doing it. They’ll arrive at your door as innocent as children, longing for the past. Of course, we won’t mind if you look around, you’ll say. It’s only $20 per person. They’ll pass over the money without even thinking about it: for it is money they have and peace they lack. And they’ll walk out to the bleachers; sit in shirtsleeves on a perfect afternoon. They’ll find they have reserved seats somewhere along one of the baselines, where they sat when they were children and cheered their heroes. And they’ll watch the game and it’ll be as if they dipped themselves in magic waters. The memories will be so thick they’ll have to brush them away from their faces. People will come Ray. The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been baseball. America has rolled by like an army of steamrollers. It has been erased like a blackboard, rebuilt and erased again. But baseball has marked the time. This field, this game: it’s a part of our past, Ray. It reminds of us of all that once was good and it could be again. Oh… people will come Ray. People will most definitely come.

I think Reagan, JFK, Obama, Cobain and spring training all provide us hope of what was once good and could be again. But, first, we have to allow ourselves to have the innocence of a child and cease the cynicism we have developed as adults.

By ssiscribe

February 15, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

Top of the morning, denizens, as the temperature slowly begins rising along the southern rim of the capital city.

It might be chilly, but it’s officially spring as the Braves begin workouts today at Lake Buena Vista (or Disney World, or Dark Starr, or whatever the heck you wanna call it).

Now, Bennett (noted transition from the Scribe): Interesting to see how he’ll factor into the mix this season. He’s going to pitch in Atlanta at some point, but when and in what role? Will it be as the fifth starter, a distinct possibility if Mike Hampton cannot start the season in the rotation? Will it be as a spot starter and long reliever, in case Smoltz or Hampton need to skip a start early in the season?

I loved watching Bennett in his three starts last season. Dude really has battled to get to this point, to have a shot to make the major-league roster after overcoming arm problems. Seems older and wiser, too, taking advantage of the chance Bobby gave him at the end of the season, and then carrying that over into Venezuela this winter. Fifty pounds ain’t easy to lose, either. That shows me a ton of commitment and a level of seriousness, that he knows he’s got a shot to win a roster spot.

If Jair Jurrjens has a good spring, I’m 99.9 percent convinced he’s going to make the team, even if Hampton can take the fourth spot (of that, I’m not anywhere near 99.9 percent convinced). But Bennett’s going to play a role with this pitching staff sometime in 2008, I believe.

Now, Jurrjens and depth (more transition): More viable candidates than openings … it’s a good problem to have, folks. Remember last year, when Hampton got hurt again and Lance Cormier (the team’s best pitcher in spring) got hurt in his last spring start? The options were Mark Redman and Kyle Davies. Redman, if you’ll recall, had been pitching to a mattress in the basement of his home. Davies, if you’ll recall, endured a nightmare 2006 riddled with injury and poor pitching, and really needed to start last season in Richmond if, for nothing else, than to rebuild his confidence.

The Braves have so much more depth this season. I personally think Jo Jo Reyes needs to start the season in Richmond. He clearly wasn’t ready when promoted last summer, but if you look, he lowered his ERA in his last five starts and looked like he finally found a comfort zone on the mound near season’s end. Let him begin the season at Richmond and build on that momentum and confidence; I still think he’s got a chance to be a good major-league pitcher, maybe a No. 2 or No. 3 guy.

But Jurrjens potentially (that’s a dangerous word, I know, but I haven’t blogged with you guys in a while, so I’m rusty) could develop into a staff ace one of these days. He just turned 22 and has a world of upside. Being able to throw three pitches for strikes (404 strikeouts against just 121 walks in 503.1 career minor-league innings) shows there is a ton of talent there. I’m really excited to see him pitch on a regular basis this spring.

And if he were to struggle, then he goes to Richmond for a little more seasoning. If Chuck James is healthy and can show he can get hitters out after 65-70 pitches, he obviously is going to be a major factor in the makeup of the back end of the rotation. Dude did win 11 games in each of his first two big-league seasons. And what of Buddy Carlyle? Sure, I know some bloggers have totally dissed Buddy and I really think he’s a longshot at very best, but he did have two good months in 2007 and he’ll get a chance. If he’s lights out this spring, he’s going to force the Braves to consider him coming north.

OK, that’s long enough. Got plenty other things to do. Good blogging with you good people again. Started my own blog and have been busy at work, and the usual freelance stuff and family and getting ready to move and all that … but it’s baseball season now. So, I’ll be around.

Wishing all of you good things on this first Friday of spring.

The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Braveheart

February 15, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

Damn, sounds like Jeff Bennett has the eye of the tiger right now. That running steps story reminds me of all those writers and basketball execs who used to marvel at the way Larry Bird would run the steps of the Boston Garden all the time.

I was very skeptical of Bennett. But he pitched hungry last Septemeber. And it seems like he has stayed hungry. JoJo, Jair, James better watch out for Jeff. Doesn’t seem like he is gonna settle for long relief or Richmond.

By Carolina Gent

February 15, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

Mornin’, DOB! Here’s my question o’ the day as I sit at my desk day dreaming optimistically about the start of the season… if the Braves are unable to reach any sort of extension with Tex would they be willing to trade him at midseason so they can get something in return? I know it probably depends on team’s record, etc., but just wondering about your thoughts.

By obxer

February 15, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

Dude - To compare Obama to spring training is a joke. Spring training offers hope for all, yes, but Obama is all fluff and no substance. Your analogy would only work if spring training was followed by nothing. So far Obama has fired up a lot of people but has not provided an expected conclusion. Kind of like rounding third with Scarlett Johannson only to wake up.

By Eric from MO

February 15, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

Can anyone explain to me why the Braves are considering to platoon Diez again. He has batted well over .300 the last 2 years. Give him a chance, if he struggles with everyday then platoon him, but give him a chance.

By richbrave

February 15, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

In reference to O’Brian’s blog regarding Gonzo. If you rush things you become Gilbert Areanas of the Wizards. He was impatient, tried to do too much and re-injured himself. Tell Gonzo to just take the time the Drs. say is necessary to be safe.

By Overlord

February 15, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

TEX traded at midseason? next question please………..

Braves will do their best to keep him, and they WILL pay good money.

By scribe

February 15, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this

* i wanted to try and post on this page because my comment that MR. JOHN LEWIS HAS BEEN IRRELEVANT FOR 15 YEARS. would not post. which i’m sure has nothing to do with selective editing of the blogs and their ethnicity. what a racist paper*

By David O'Brien

February 15, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this

Glavine just filled it up for a half-hour before the team meeting. If he can pitch half as well as he can still interview, then he’ll be a helluva No. 3 starter.

Because he’s still the ace in the interview dept.

Not the throng of reporters Glavine got used to in NY, but there were a couple of NY reporters here along with Jayson Stark with his his video-blog cameraman in tow.

By Tomahawkin

February 15, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Please, No talking about politics up in here… Its just like rules at a party, you never talk politics or religion…It just leads to arguments…

I gotta Co-Sign with Eric’s statement about Diaz, Give him a shot at it everyday, I know his defense is average (Cox can always use a defensive replacement in the later innings) but the man can flat out hit

By ncscoots

February 15, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Did we suddenly rescind the rule on political posts? If not, let’s get that 9:42 outta here. Otherwise, let’s at least have some Bush bashing to balance the ledger. :-)

By Overlord

February 15, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

Eric explanation is simple, Coxs brain is being affected by age, to much cholesterol in brain arteries is affecting him. We all live in a world and he lives in another. We all know it is the best option to give him the chance, only cox thinks different. Sadly for us, he makes the calls.

By Renegator

February 15, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

Enjoyed the morning post ssiscribe. I’m looking forward to many more throughout the year.

By i cant take it anymore

February 15, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

whats the big deal with victorino? does everyone think he is going to be that great? im sure i will be grilled for this, but im just not sold on him being the catalyst eveyone projects. thanks to the mets fans for teaching me who johan santana is and why the mets are an elite team. i had no idea who they were.

By ncscoots

February 15, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

We all know it is the best option to give [Diaz] the chance

Sorry, “all” doesn’t include me, and my cholesterol is just peachy, thanks.

By David-ATL14

February 15, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

Looking forward to reading some of the points touched on by Glavine.

Great to see some of the regulars returning to the blog. Special shout out to Greg in TN already in mid season form.

Blog has been very informative on a wealth of subjects baseball and other lately.

Only a few of the disgruntled one note wonders hanging on in abject bitterness, one in particular.

All in all though a huge plus for the denizens here. Give yourself and the blogmaster DOB a well deserved pat on the back.

By In Heaven There Is No Beer

February 15, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

What did Tommy have to say?

By Tomahawkin

February 15, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Hey, my man, you will See How much of a Catalyst Victorino is when he becomes a pain in our arse…Actually he was a pain in our Arse that last Series in Philly…And Don’t forget Oliver Perez, We seriously gotta find a way to him hit him…

By Overlord

February 15, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

ncscoots do i need to remember you Diaz numbers? and not only numbers, he is clutch, period. Please explain why would you also keep Diaz on the bench half of the season? I would really love to read your point, maybe then i could understand Cox.

By ssiscribe

February 15, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Here here on the 9:42 a.m., Scoots. And as a matter of clarification and for the record, the 9:55 a.m. is not me …

Renegator, thanks much. Good to be back talking baseball, for sure. I’ve been reading all winter; now, it’s time to chat it up.

—30—

By Overlord

February 15, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

Victorino is good but not great, my 2 cents.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

February 15, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

Well , I’ll be the first to admit that I am biased in favor of Jeff Bennett.

He really impressed me at the end of last season in Richmond and Atlanta. Then he went to winter ball and continued his success. Now the guy shows up at spring training fifty pounds lighter.

Jeff Bennett is going to make guys like James , Reyes and Jurrjens work a lot harder if they expect to make the team.

By 18 Wheels of Love

February 15, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Jeff Bennett is officially my ‘get in better shape’ role model for this spring. Dude is crazy serious about getting fit…Slim Goodbody Fit!

Mmmmm…Bumble Bee Organic Chocolate Energy bar time…vegan style too.

Puke…..

By David O'Brien

February 15, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

NEW BLOG UP. How ‘bout that! Early, baby.

By Braveheart

February 15, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

Scribe and Scoots, thanks for being good friends and pointing to the other guy but not me. But you guys are right and fair is fair. I got carried away. DOB should delete my 9:19 as well. Just read Mr. Baseball’s post and got carried away with my thoughts. Sorry about that. NOW, back to baseball….

By DAP

February 15, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

Tomohawkin’ the cubs actually have a very solid offensive teams, just like most of the central teams to. id say the cubs success relies more on alfonso soriano than lee. when soriano went down last year, they went into a tail spin. add to him ramirez, derosa, lee, and solid top of the order guys like murton and theriot, and they will be tuff. not to mention they have two of the best hitting pitchers, with zambrano and marquis.

braun, fielder and hart headline o tuff brewers offense, the astros have berkman, tejada, lee… the way we will beat these teams is scoring a bunch of runs, cause they can hit fine.

By DAP

February 15, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

QueensMetsFan three perennial MVP candidates in the lineup

who are you talking about here? im assuming youre talking about reyes, wright and beltran. reyes has never been close to winning the MVP, wright was close for the first time in 2007 (hardly a perennial candidate) and beltran was close once, in 2006(again hardly perennial)

a team that was in first place more or less the past two seasons.

thats a funny way to say that…more or less.

By Moby Grape

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

But Jurrjens potentially (that’s a dangerous word, I know, but I haven’t blogged with you guys in a while, so I’m rusty) could develop into a staff ace one of these days. He just turned 22 and has a world of upside. Being able to throw three pitches for strikes (404 strikeouts against just 121 walks in 503.1 career minor-league innings) shows there is a ton of talent there.scribe

I see you are saying potentially, but not according to most of the talent evaluators across the baseball nation. most rate him as a middle order guy, good control but not #1 quality pitches. The Braves do have a lot of depth in the starting pitching staff, but almost all of it is back of the order depth. If one, or God forbid two, of the Smoltz/Hudson/Glavine aging trio are hurt for any length of time it is going to be tough.

By justdoit

February 15, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

from ny and was wondering where braves fans get the foam tomahawks? do they sell them in atlanta or just at the games? i cant find them online anywhere - great gift to give to all these mets fans surrounding me when Atl go to playoffs and there all watching

By Reid in EAV

February 15, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

That’s a great song, but to me Susan Tedeschi (on her debut, “Just Won’t Burn”) owns the definitive cover of it.

And as for the Mets fans, please feel free to shut up until you prove you can to Game 162 of this year without a monumental choking collapse.

We Bravo fans have had to contend with some early playoff exits, but never anything like that. Santana or no Santana, I expect the character of this team to be the same until proven otherwise. It’s all theoretical until you play da games.

By Justin E.

February 15, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

I opened a pack of 2008 Topps last night and found a card of Andruw in a Dodgers uni. I tossed my cookies, and screwdriver I was drinking.