Braves

By Ace

February 18, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

DOB —

Did you see the Phillies prank on Kendrick? Everyone was in on it — and he thought he had been traded to Japan. Its on YouTube and more than worth the five mintues.

By PABravefan

February 18, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB why not Mr. Blue Sky by ELO. Are you not an ELO fan? I thought everyone could listen to ELO!

By TI

February 18, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

The Braves have more depth than the Phillies and Mets. I’m going with the Braves by 4 games!

By BamaBrave

February 18, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

You don’t have to be Nostradamus to figure out that the healthiest team will win this division. And who knows how that will unfold? 162 games is one tough mutha…

On a musical sidenote…I grabbed a ticket to see Radiohead at Lakewood Amp last night. I’ve never been there…is that a decent venue?

By PABravefan

February 18, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

I love that the Braves are not the favorite! Sometimes it is just better to be the underdog!! Like in 1991!!!

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

February 18, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

I think this will be a three team race. Each team has its strengths and weaknesses. I think all three teams have excellent offenses although I think the Braves and Phillies have the edge over the Mets. If I were a Mets fan, I wouldn’t place a lot of stock in Ryan Church and “Mr. DL” Moises Alou.

I have to say overall the Mets have the edge in the pitching rotation but the Braves are best equipped to suffer an injury. The Braves definitely have better depth than the Mets or Phillies.

The bullpen is a bit trickier. I would say the Braves and Mets are about even. The Phillies bullpen sucks and I still say Brad Lidge pitching at Citzens Bank Park is like throwing a match in a 55 gallon drum of gasoline.

The Braves have the advantage on the bench as well. The Mets and Phillies have decent benches but neither one of them have the depth the Braves do.

And, I think the Braves have the better farm system too. To me the Braves are better equipped to handle injuries to their position players. Yes, if Chipper went donw it would be a problem but at least the Braves would have the ability to move Escobar to 3B and insert Lillibridge at SS. The Braves are deep in the outfield so they would be okay there. And even if Tex had to miss a few games between Thorman, Infante, and maybe even a Bryan Pena the Braves could get by.

If the Phillies lost Ryan Howard or Jimmy Rollins for any amout of time they would be through. Same goes for the Mets with David Wright or Carlos Beltran.

I’m not ready to make any predictions just yet but I think it would be a huge mistake by the Phillies or Mets to discount the Braves. This team has the look of the type of teams Bobby Cox likes and that is a team that can sustain itself over a 162 game schedule.

By ugaman

February 18, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

First time blogger, but long time reader. Dave, I really enjoy your blog. It’s very insightful and most of the people are ver knowledgeable about the game. I still get humored reading all of the exageration of fans who believe their team is perfect while other teams have nothing but losers. Correct me if you will, but if a player happens to make it to the major leagues, more times than not he is a very talented baseball player. Yes, every team has its star players, but I usually find it’s the normal guys on each team that determine whether or not they make it to the postseason. For that reason, I look at the back of the rotations and the “role” players on each team. When examining these teams in that light, and barring any major injury to any team, I have to believe that the Braves look the strongest coming out of spring training, whith the Mets and Phillies a fraction behind. However, any player on the Mets or Phillies that have career years (as someone on most every team has each year)can swing the pendulum to their team. For the Braves, these players, in my estimation, will be Yunel (first full season as starter) and Jurrgens (back end of rotation). Plus, it’s hard to ignore the Braves record when Chipper is healthy and playing a full season. Anyway, sorry for the long post. Here’s hoping the Braves have a Back to the Future of 1995 this year!

By DonCoburleone

February 18, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

Check out this little snippet from MLTBR: “Buster Olney learned from Braves GM Frank Wren that Kelly Johnson has been the team’s most asked-for player in trade talks this winter.”

With all this talk about getting a Francoeur extension completed, why aren’t we trying to get Kelly Johnson extended? 2008 is his first year of arbitration eligibility isn’t it DOB? So that would mean KJ will become an unrestricted Free Agent after the 2010 season?

By MiamiBravesFan

February 18, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

DOB

I am traveling to Orlando this weekend. And on Sunday I want to stop at Champions Field to see the Braves workout.

Could you tell me what time they start, what time they finish, any info that could help me know when to be there so I can see them up close on Sunday the 24th

By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy

February 18, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Gonna rain today: Weather’s been beautiful so far at Dark Star, but today it’s cloudy and a storm is approaching.

Storms Never Last, do they?

By Greg form Marietta

February 18, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

As long as the Braves stay injury free they are as good as any team in baseball. Injuries will determine the winner of the NL East. Mark my words.

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 18, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

I think that some might misinterpret the Braves’ lack of a fiery response to being left out of the equation as their understanding that they won’t be in the race.

I can see the Mets’ trolls posts now: “Chipper didn’t say anything because he knows that the Braves will be in another division race — the race for 5th place with the Marlins and Nationals!”

Idiotic comments like those are what I’m expecting some to say, and I’d expect the Braves to simply say, “well, we’ll see when March 30 comes.” I’ve got a lot of respect for Bobby and Chipper, and they’re both showing that they’re too smart to get involved with the kind of sideshow trash-talking that the Mets and Phillies have going on.

To me, the whole Beltran-Phillies thing that’s being played up seems like boneheaded jock talk.

By MetsPussycat

February 18, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

Wow…does a METS fan get to be first? Or in the top 5? Good ish! lol

DOB- “Fans of the Braves and Mets, in their heart of hearts, realize their teams have big question marks in the rotations…”

Very true comment! Lets see Pedro is back….we METS fans felt confidant in him before Santana but of course Santana in the lineup just makes us relax a little bit more! As for Perez…ill be the METS fan to say it..hey we made him what he is now..if he feels gully and lets Boras fill his head with gas then let him be dismissed….

Rollins…somebody needs to muzzle him!

LETS GO METS!!!

By varoadrunner

February 18, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

I’ve been feeling the same way… poor ole Braves, not even mentioned in the race for the East. Lot’s of ifs, but if just a few of the ifs come through, we are easily the team to beat. If Hudson has another “ace” year, if smoltz can handle a 200+ inning year, if Glavine can give us 200+ innings and 13-15 wins and then the biggest if - Mike Hampton. If he has a comeback season, that’s FOUR ace caliber pitchers, not to mention the rest of the staff. The offense has been good enough to score - now all we have to do is “hold-em”

I’m excited about the season - just let it play out.

By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy

February 18, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

Lew, can I have YOUR autograph? :-)

By RA

February 18, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

Abraham Lincoln once said that the hen is the wisest of all God’s creatures because she waits to cluck until after the egg has been laid… I don’t think that any team in the east (or in the NL for that matter) has enough depth to claim primacy over everyone else. They’re all one or two injuries away from mediocre, and injuries happen…

By Harvey Moped

February 18, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

Lots of good Blue Sky songs out there. Not to be excluded is blues guitarist Ian Moore’s tune by the same name. Beautiful, soul-stirring track that if you listen to it enough might just bring tears to your eyes.

By John

February 18, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

What’s our new logo this year? How about “The Atlanta Braves, a Team for the Aged”? Our pitching staff needs adult Depends as much as reisin bags. It’s time some of our new, young “stars” in the every day lineup got past “new” and “young” and started playing like stars. I really don’t care who just got married, which is what I see a lot of news coverage about. I do care if he is going to hit .300 with runners in scoring position. Quit trying to make them family we will miss when their stats go south and get traded. Do you really think these beloved players who have become part of our baseball “family” will not leave for an extra million dollars when it’s offered by someone else? My hats off to Chipper and Smoltz who DID resist the temptation of a few more dollars more. Contra the carpetbagging Tom Glavine, who, after ‘95 couldn’t win the big one again. Come on Tom, show me I am wrong about you. Do something this year other than beat weak teams and collect a paycheck.

By Shaun

February 18, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

This race may be a matter of depth versus star-power. It would be hard to argue that any team has the talent of the Mets’ core of Wright, Beltran, Reyes, Santana and Wagner. But the Braves and Phillies are probably deeper.

By almost native atlantan

February 18, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave, I am a big Braves fan and supporter, but in answer to your question about the Mets and Phillies as to whether I would want Wagner or Lidge on the mound in the 9th inning of a close game, I think I would feel at least as confident with either of those guys up there as I would Sorieno. I like Sorieno, but I still have lots of questions about whether he will be able to deliver all season long. When/if Mike Gonzalez comes back and gives us two guys to go to, I will feel better. Thanks for a great blog!

By timmythebrave

February 18, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Bama brave, Lakewood is ok. The good is that it is outdoors and large enough to get tickets. The bad is that it is outdoors and large enough for the sound to get distorted unless you get close tickets. Should be a fun show though. As far as the Braves not getting consideration for the division, I think it will be a tight 3 team race and the winner will be the team that wins the close games. Also the team that whips up on the Nationals and Marlins will have a big advantage. I like the look of our team and I am ready for some baseball

By Spider29

February 18, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

This is going to be an exciting season, no doubt. Barring bad injuries to any of the three teams’ most important players, I see this thing going down to the last week of the season. As defending NL East champions, the Phillies should be considered the “team to beat”. We Braves fans usually insisted on that during the great run. Why should Jimmy Rollins be muzzled? He only spoke the truth.

By Bryan

February 18, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

RA, the mets laid an egg last year … so i think its appropriate that they start clucking

By Braveheart

February 18, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

Scribe, that was a real good point about Soriano and his increased workload as compared to the 3 previous seasons. I also think the abuse due to the back end of the rotation took a toll on him during that period of time. But also, relievers sometimes just go through those kinds of stretches during the season:

Mariano Rivera, April 15 to May 20, 2007: 12 appearances, 10.7 innings, 11 earned runs, 16 hits, 3 walks, 10 Ks

Rafael Soriano, July 14 to Agusut 11, 2007: 14 appearances, 14 innings, 11 earned runs, 15 hits, 4 walks, 14 Ks

Billy Wagner, August 10 to September, 26, 2007: 18 appearances, 18 innings, 13 earned runs, 22 hits, 9 walks, 22 Ks

Brad Lidge, July 29 to September 27, 2007: 23.3 innings, 16 earned runs, 22 hits, 11 walks, 30 Ks

Trevor Hoffman, August 5 to October 1, 2007: 20 appearances, 18.3 innings, 12 earned runs, 28 hits, 7 walks, 19 Ks

Trevor Hoffman, rest of season: 39 innings, 7 earned runs, 21 hits, 8 walks, 25 Ks,

Mariano Rivera, rest of season: 59.7 innings, 14 earned runs, 52 hits, 9 walks, 64 Ks

Rafael Soriano, rest of season: 58 innings, 13 earned runs, 32 hits, 11 walks, 56 Ks

Billy Wagner, rest of season: 50.3 innings, 7 earned runs, 33 hits, 9 walks, 4 home runs, 58 Ks

Brad Lidge, rest of season: 43.7 innings, 9 earned runs, 32 hits, 19 walks, 58 Ks

By N8

February 18, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

Shaun

You mention the Mets “core” of Wright, Beltran, Reyes, Santana and Wagner.

Can’t argue with. OK, I lied. I’m gonna.

To Wright we have Chipper. Health concerns? Sure. Just like they have with Beltran.

To Beltran, we have McCann. Yeah, I know they don’t play the same position. But as DOB pointed out yesterday, McCann only has 4 less RBI than Beltran does since the 2006 All-Star break. How do we “counter” Beltran’s defense in CF with McCann? Well, hasn’t everybody from Smoltz to Bobby claimed that McCann calls a helluva game behind the plate? It’s a push, IMO.

How about Reyes? Well, he is obviously the catalyst of that offense and one helluva SS. Escobar might be as good (if not better), defensively as him, and we arguably have the best hitting 1B in the league, with Tex.

Johan Santana is a clearly one of the Top 5 best pitchers in Baseball. Webb belongs in that conversation, as does Peavy, Sabathia. But even at his age…..so does John Smoltz. Edge? Slightly to the Mets due to age. But if Smoltz is healthy for 162 games, I’d take him 7 days a week and twice on Sunday’s over Johan.

As for Wagner. That’s a little more “up for debate, IMO. Do you go with the veteran that’s been there/done that, but is obviously on the back end of his career and showed signs of it in the second half last year? Or do you go with the guy that has the stuff to do it, but not the experience. Slight edge goes to Mets. Because if I’m gonna give the nod to Chipper and Smoltz, due to experience, it’s only fair to look at Wagner the same way, right?

But here’s the thin. I believe we’ve countered their “core” with a decent core of our own, but when you add in the comparisons of the “other players” (Francoeur, our LF platoon, Kotsay and KJ vs. Castillo, Alou, Church and Schneider), we CLEARLY have the edge, IMO.

Then when you start talking the rotation depth? I’ll take our chances with Hudson vs. Pedro (at this point of his career), any day of the week.

I’ll take Glavine against ANYBODY IN MLB’s 3rd man.

And at this point the #4 and #5 comparisons can’t really begin, until we know who for sure they will be.

So, while I agree that the Braves and Phillies have more depth than the Mets, I don’t totally agree that we are that far behind them (if at all), when it comes to the core of “star” players, either.

If we are healthy in order of importance (Smoltz, Chipper, Kotsay, Hampton, Chuck, Gonzalez), I think we could literally run away with this thing.

If we are not, (depending on WHO is not healthy), we could finish 3rd again. But at the same time, if the ANY of the Mets big 5 you mentioned (Wright, Reyes, Beltran, Santana and Wagner…might as well make it 6 and include Pedro), miss any significant time, they’re in DEEP trouble, unless they “buy” some more help.

By Epinephrine

February 18, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

I think you have to give the slight nod to the Mets rotation as is. With that being said, if Mike Hampton really is able to resume his old form (and believe me, I know that is an enormous if), that could put the Braves rotation easily among the best in the bigs. Of course, time will tell, but the possibility ought to be on everyone’s radar in the NL East.

If Hampton isn’t able to put it together, then I think the Braves have to be seen as third in that bunch, albeit a very close third.

By OrlandoFan

February 18, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

Everyone has to remember that even if these 3 teams are balanced, there are four good teams out west (Rockes, Dbacks, Dodgers, Padres). The runner-up in the East probably gets nothing. The Central has some balance if not depth, too. The Reds could be a real darkhorse. So though so much is being said about the Braves’ race, the NL overall has some top-level teams that could mean the division winner won’t eclipse 88-90 victories.

By Bravo

February 18, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

This just in from ESPN.com - the mets have lost another game…..

By mileyhater

February 18, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

Hannah Montana is a w*******!!

By mileyhater

February 18, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

Hannah Montana is a w*******!!

By MetsPussycat

February 18, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

SPIDER29- “As defending NL East champions, the Phillies should be considered the “team to beat”. “

If were talking in terms of only knocking out the defending NL EAST leader then yes this is a true statement! In terms of the Phillthies being “the team” as in no other squad in the NL East has chance in 2008 thats BS! As for Rollins poppin off at the mouth, thats not truth, that just poppin off at the mouth! Every squad has one BS talker…METS have one , we call him “SIllY BILLY”!

We all have 162 games to play!

LETS GO METS!

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

ugaman, welcome. thanks for the post.

DonC, let’s not get carried away with the notion that there’s some urgency to sign guys who are free agents in 2010.

Signing guys to multi-year deals before arbitration is very much still the exception, not the rule. Nothing wrong with seeing how Kelly develops another season before worrying about signing him long-term.

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, doing some serious numbers-crunching. Impressive.

By N8

February 18, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

I just saw this snipit on the Mets official site about Glavine’s departure.

“Tom Glavine: For all the public will say about Glavine’s poorly timed, poorly executed final Mets start, he will be sorely missed. Before his last three starts fell flat, Glavine contributed 190 innings, posting a 13-6 record with a 3.88 ERA. The team had won 18 of 31 of his starts. Who among the current Mets starters can be expected to match that?”

Like I’ve said a few times before. Johan is OBVIOUSLY an upgrade over Tom Glavine (at this point of their careers), but not as much as Glavine is an upgrade for us in the 3-hole.

It’s all relative Mets fans. Time to admit that. Look yourself in the mirror and honestly tell me how far “ahead” of the Braves you would have finished in 2007 had we signed Glavine LAST off-season.

My guess is that you would have made a harder push for Barry Zito. I’m sure his 11-13 record and 4.53 ERA would helped you get to the WS, huh?

Not to mention, if you had Barry Zito, you more than likely DON’T go after Johan.

So you guys need to praise the heavens above that we didn’t find a way to get Glavine last year, like we were trying to.

Anyhow. I think it’s worked out well for both teams. You’ve obviously got your ace for the next half decade, while we might be relying on Hudson and youngsters after 2008 (2009 at the latest).

As for the 2008 season? We’ll see…

By MetsPussycat

February 18, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

Epinephrine - Yes…Mike “Enormous if” Hampton could help you…but im sure the braves fans arent holding their breath for this one! But your right time will tell….!

LETS GO METS!!

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

MiamiFan, workouts start at 10 a.m. every day EXCEPT this saturday and sunday, when Braves have physicals in the morning. Workouts get pushed back to about noon on those days.

By 18 Wheels of Love

February 18, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

Great lyrics to Blue Sky…but are they as good as ‘Let there be Rock’? I’m not too sure…

Dropped acid, Blue Oyster Cult concert, fourteen years old, And I thought them lasers were a spider chasing me. On my way home, got pulled over in Rogersville Alabama, with a half-ounce of weed and a case of Sterling Big Mouth. My buddy Gene was driving, he just barely turned sixteen. And I’d like to say, “I’m sorry”, but we lived to tell about it And we lived to do a whole lot more crazy, stupid, s**.

And I never saw Lynyrd Skynyrd but I sure saw Molly Hatchet With 38 Special and the Johnny Van Zant Band.

One night when I was seventeen, I drank a fifth of vodka, on an empty stomach, then drove over to a friend’s house. And I backed my car between his parent’s Cadillac’s without a scratch. Then crawled to the back door and slithered threw the key hole, and sneaked up the stares And puked in the toilet. I passed out and nearly drowned but his sister, DD, pulled me out.

And I never saw Lynyrd Skynyrd but I sure saw Molly Hatchet And the band that I was in played “The Boy’s are Back in Town”.

Skynyrd was set to play Huntsville, Alabama, in the spring of 77, I had a ticket but it got cancelled. So, the show, it was rescheduled for the “Street Survivors Tour”. And the rest, as they say, is history.

So I never saw Lynyrd Skynyrd but I sure saw Ozzy Osbourne with Randy Rhoads in 82 Right before that plane crash. And I never saw Lynyrd Skynyrd but I sure saw AC/DC With Bon Scott singing, “Let There Be Rock Tour”.

With Bon Scott singing, LET THERE BE ROCK!

By Renegator

February 18, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Lew

Just received my colored print on Saturday and I have to say - it is awesome. Thanks so much - you are the man!!!

Heard about your run-in with Chipper and Bobby this morning. Sounds like a dream come true. Keep up the good work and keep those Muts trolls in their place.

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Jair Jurrjens was very impressive today in his third and best day off the mound. He kept the ball down, threw hard, and had good movement on his sinker and changeup. Dude does not make many mistakes up in the zone, from what I’ve seen early on.

Really good kid, too. Brith, and has a self-deprecating sense of humor.

By the way, it’s pronounced Ji-eer, not one-syllable Jair the way we’ve been pronouncing it.

By Guy Wilson

February 18, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

I like the Braves team. They have good bats and defense - They still need a young starter and good luck in the injury catagory. This should be a good year.

By MET FAN

February 18, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

We needed one game from big time GLAVINE and he screwed that up!!!! Atlanta can have him back we replaced him with JOHAN i take that switch!!!!

LETS GO METS!!!!!!

By Murphy

February 18, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

I love it when the national media and the teams in our division discount us. They did it for the 14 years we won the division as well! Actually, I think if the Met’s fans were not concerned about us, then they would not be on our blog fighting with Lew until the wee hours of the morning.
Great insight as usual DOB!

By MetsPussycat

February 18, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

“Like I’ve said a few times before. Johan is OBVIOUSLY an upgrade over Tom Glavine (at this point of their careers), but not as much as Glavine is an upgrade for us in the 3-hole.

It’s all relative Mets fans. Time to admit that. Look yourself in the mirror and honestly tell me how far “ahead” of the Braves you would have finished in 2007 had we signed Glavine LAST off-season.

N8- Im looking in the mirror…..but I just cant pull myself to admit anything positive about that bum glavine! LOL! He was a brave, is a brave and will always be a brave! He screwed us in everyway! We want revenge!

Ok seriously…hard question because we all know in baseball…”IF” is the biggest word around! What if we did this or what if we got this guy! Don’t think we will ever know, just like METS fans will never know if our 2008 squad with Pedro leading would have been fierce without Santana in the rotation! I for one was looking forward to our boyzz proving a point! Either way the baseball God’s felt that Santana needed to be part of that point so here we are….!

LETS GO METS!!!

LETS GO METS!!!

By mitchie-san

February 18, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

I for one am more excited about Jair than anything else. This kid sounds lke the real deal. I liked Edgar, but this may end up being a steal…

By MetsPussycat

February 18, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

Murphy - METS fans are by far Not a little bit concerned about the braves! Yeah we do want to rock that bum glavine! But Lew likes to hammer us and we like to give it right back is all!

LETS GO METS!!!!!

By Nick

February 18, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

God I wish Dickey wasn’t a drunk and could get back with the Allmans.

By Duke

February 18, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

Great song DOB, I really love the Allman Brothers. My Dad grew up good friends with Gregg and we go to Macon for New Years Eve every other year for another one of my Dad’s friends party, where Gregg almost always is in attendance. Thanks for the Jurrjens update. What was he hitting on the radar and what would you say his best pitch is?

By Bryan

February 18, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Lew, do you have a website that has your art work? I would defiantly like to check it out…

Dave, thanks for the pronunciation help - nothing worse than sitting at turner field and watching someone try to get an autograph of a player and hearing them scream the mispronounced name at the top of their lungs …

Ji-eer … hmmm …

I can see it now, people in giant ear costume taking over the space from Frenchy’s Franks and McCann’s Cans …

Jair’s Ears … hmmmm or maybe Jair’s Beers …

I wonder if Jair could all of a sudden become a cult figure in Atlanta’s alternative lifestyle community and we would see a Jair’s Q … ohh never mind … though i think Turner Field could use some flamboyance (besides Jimmy Buffet Night)

By Stinky

February 18, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

…Tom Glavine, who is 41 and said he would’ve retired if the Braves weren’t interested in bringing him back for this season…

I told you so.

By BamaBrave

February 18, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

I’m glad to hear good things about Jurrjens…because right now, I can’t think of the possible 2010 Braves rotation without getting the shakes.

Thanks for the Lakewood intel, Timmy. Outdoor acoustics, or lack thereof…yikes. Ah well…

By Nick

February 18, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah 18WOL the Truckers rock.

By mitchie-san

February 18, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

If Jair was pronounced “jar” we could have been the Jar-Heads…

By flange1

February 18, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Good news to here JJJ had a good outing. With Morton one of Cox’s favorites, Bennett’ lost weight and dedication to pitching and JJJ pitching well, Hampton James and Reyes need to step it up or the righties will take all of the roster spots.

I really do think that if Bennett, Morton, and JJJ pitch well in camp that Chuckie might get traded….

We will see!

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Duke, nobody’s got radar guns out this early. But scouting reports say he throws low to mid-90s and has a good sinker, slider and changeup.

By TampaDawg

February 18, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

Hey does anybody know what time the braves practice and where their practice field is and where to be at to get autographs. I really want to get Autographs from Glavine, and Smoltz!!!

By mr baseball

February 18, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

Since it’s supposed to rain on the Braves today, figured I’d add to the precipitation. There’s a reason the Mets & Phillies are considered more likely division champions than the Braves. On paper, both are better.

Fortunately for baseball fans, teams that are better on paper are frequently not the best team on the field. And the geniuses who pontificate on the sport for a living are wrong more often than not. Anybody remember how the Braves were all but conceded the division title last year after the Tex trade by the yakkers on ESPN’s Baseball Tonight and a lot of national writers?

The Phillies are clearly the most dangerous offensive team of the 3. They have pitching concerns, but they won the division last year with a third-rate rotation and a suspect bullpen. Lidge has head issues, but still has one of the great arms in the majors and a change of scenery might be what he needs.

The Mets are probably too old, but there is still a whole lot of talent in the field and on the mound. Braves fans downplay the acquisition of Santana at their peril, and both Perez and Maine are as good or better than what the Braves have in similar spots in the roration. Wagner is iffy, but so is Soriano, who doesn’t have anywhere near the history of achievement the Mets’ closer has.

There are too many question marks regarding the Braves to consider them the favorites to win the division. If those questions, particularly in regards to the starting rotation, are answered positively, the Braves may be the best team in the league. But it’s just as likely they’ll be answered in the negative and the rotation will consist of Hudson and a bunch of rookies/castoffs.

And last but not least, now that the Braves are no longer significantly better than the teams they’re competing against, the strategic shortcomings of Chance the Manager will be more evident. The Braves had a losing record in 1-run games last year, an all too familiar occurrence, in part due to decisions made from the dugout.

After the last two seasons, we have to accept the fact that the 15-year run is done and ain’t comin’ back again. There’s a good chance the Braves can start a new streak this year, but reality may get in the way of a lot of the overexuberance expressed here.

By T-Bone

February 18, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

flange1, totally agree with you. If Hampton is healthy going into the season, James will probably be gone.

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

18 Wheels of Love: agreed. Terrific DBT tune.

As you can imagine, there are a lot of lyrics I’d like to post that might be a bit rough or risque. Better for you to post them. Fine job.

By ChaseBravo

February 18, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

I’ve been posting on the ESPNs blog about this article that Jayson Stark wrote. There are a bunch of idiot trash talkers from philly and ny in there. Go defend the Bravos!!

By Alan

February 18, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

I’m amused that the Phillies and the Mets - and their fans, of course - are taking the Braves for granted. These 3 teams are very evenly matched, and it should be a tight race all season. After all, last year was close, wasn’t it? Correct me if I’m wrong, but didn’t the Braves finish 5 games out? With only 2 reliable starting pitchers, a massively subpar year from the guy (A. Jones) who hit cleanup more than a third of the time, and a bullpen weakened by injury (Gonzalez) and ineffectiveness (Wickman). Still, they stayed in contention all year. At this time of year, everyone is an optimist - even diehard Royals and Pirates fans. We Braves fans, though, have every reason to feel good. By any measure, this team is better than it was this time last year. You can say the same thing about the Phillies and the Mets, although I submit that the Braves have improved more than the others. The NL East race should be exciting and it should go down to the wire just as it did in ‘07. I like our chances.

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

Just had to share this with the rest of the pressbox, everyone agreeing it’s brilliant. So let’s post it again, like hunkerdown did last night

Beekay, you’re the man.

By beekay

February 15, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

Roger Clemens Yesterday (as played by Jack Nicholson) Clemens: You want answers?

Congressman: I think I’m entitled to them.

Clemens: You want answers?

Congressman: I want the truth!

Clemens: You can’t handle the truth! Son, we live in a world that has baseballs. And those balls have to be hit by men with bats. Who’s gonna do it? You? You,Congressman? I have a greater responsibility than you can possibly fathom. You weep for steroids and

you curse HGH. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know: that HGH, while illegal, probably sells tickets. And my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, sells tickets…You don’t want the truth. Because deep down, in places you don’t talk about at parties, you want me on that mound. You need me on

that mound. We use words like fastball, slider, splitfinger…we use these words as the backbone to a life spent playing a sport. You use ‘em as a punchline. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a man who rises and falls asleep to the Sportscenter

clips I provide, then questions the manner in which I provide it! I’d rather you just said thank you and went on your way. Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a bat and dig in. Either way, I don’t give a damn what you think you’re entitled to!

Congressman: Did you order the HGH?

Clemens: (quietly) I did the job you sent me to do.

Congressman: Did you order the HGH?

Clemens: You’re g* right I did!!

By DonCoburleone

February 18, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

“Signing guys to multi-year deals before arbitration is very much still the exception, not the rule. Nothing wrong with seeing how Kelly develops another season before worrying about signing him long-term.”

I agree, but I would then ask why all the hub-bub about getting an extension done with Francoeur? One could easily make the argument that right now, given their current ML production and current positions on the diamond Kelly Johnson is a more valuable player than Jeff Francoeur… Wouldn’t you agree DOB?

By ugaman

February 18, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

Thanks Dave,

By the way, Have you had a chance to see Boyer yet? When hefirst came up I really liked the way he pounded the strike zone and it was thought that he might be groomed as a closer. How does he look and how does he seem mentally coming back from injury?

By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy

February 18, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

18 Wheels of Love,

I asked you the other day, but never saw a response:

Are you the acoustic “Gangstabilly” version or the electric “Alabama A$$-Whuppin’” version with quite possibly the greatest spoken song-intro in the history of American Music?

Mama would sit there in her room, reading the Sun and the Star, sippin’ vodka and milk, and flippin’ them channels.

By ncscoots

February 18, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

mr b, get ready for the wrath of the blog, LOL. Excoriation cometh, I’ve no doubt, for your temerity. Though I agree with your position that the Braves should not be considered a favorite to win the division, today, in February, even before position players have reported.

But the wheel of baseball karma turns in many directions, and my guess is that the Braves, to contend, need fewer high positive outcomes on their many questions than do the other two teams. Since no team has EVERYTHING go right in a season, in regards to injury and performance, I do think that gives the Braves a slight edge.

‘Course, if the Mets’ starting five make 150+ starts, I’d say that seals the deal.

By Spider29

February 18, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Okay MetsPussycat, yes I think the Phillies are the team to beat in our division this year. The Mets earned that distinction going into the ‘07 season just as the Braves earned it for a number of years before that. That is just my way of respecting the reigning NLE title holder. If you had bothered to really read my post, you might have noticed that I did not crown or leave out anyone for the East title. I said that I see the race possibly going down to the last week. I do think it will be a three-team fight, no disrespect to the Marlins and Nationals. Because I think the top three teams are pretty evenly matched, it would have been stupid for me to suggest that any one team would run away with the division. Jimmy Rollins only spoke up for his team. Why does he need a muzzle? Do you think Beltran needs one, too? After all, he predicts that the Mets will win it in 2008. I guess he gets a free pass since he is a Met and you are a Met fan. Just enjoy the season, my friend. It’s going to be exciting!

By mitchie-san

February 18, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

That was absolutley great.

By texmex

February 18, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

“For a team like that to be flying under the radar is scary stuff,” Hamels said. “While all the talk and the battling is going on between us and the Mets, it could be smooth sailing for them.” —Hamels talking about the braves - theres more if you go to phillies.com and go where it says Club guarded in Beltran talk. pretty good stuff - atleast the phillies are smart..

By tampadawg

February 18, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

first off The braves have a lot to prove cause we’ve finished 3rd 2 years in a row….I think this year we have a very solid team and a lot of depth for pitching unlike we’ve had these past few years….There’s going to be a lot of competition for those last two spots with hampton coming back, chuck james trying to make a statement for himself, new comer Jair, and Jo Jo Reyes needs to prove he’s ready for a spot on our roster that he has his control down….

Also I can’t wait to see these two young studs Escobar and Johnson turning double plays and leading us off in our lineup at 1 and 2…. Then cleaning them up will be chipper and Tex come on baby!

Lets play ball!!!

By Bryan

February 18, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

This is an article about peter moylan … might have been linked here before … check it, reck it, lets begin.

By McFann

February 18, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

To Beltran, we have McCann. Yeah, I know they don’t play the same position. But as DOB pointed out yesterday, McCann only has 4 less RBI than Beltran does since the 2006 All-Star break. How do we “counter” Beltran’s defense in CF with McCann? Well, hasn’t everybody from Smoltz to Bobby claimed that McCann calls a helluva game behind the plate? It’s a push, IMO.

Very good, Neight. Excellent point! And I suspect that McCann’s defense is going to be much improved from last year.

By Bob Marley

February 18, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

…I would then ask why all the hub-bub about getting an extension done with Francoeur? One could easily make the argument that right now, given their current ML production and current positions on the diamond Kelly Johnson is a more valuable player than Jeff Francoeur**…

Aahhh, DonC, mon - still partaking of the blessed herb, I see.

By MetsPussycat

February 18, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

Spider29 - Come on, I obviously did read your post! But I like ALL choose to respond to specific parts of specific posts! If you had really read my post then you would have read my response then too. I said …”If were talking in terms of only knocking out the defending NL EAST leader then yes this is a true statement!” ..ok thats meaning your statement was true! Next…. I also said that “In terms of the Phillthies being “the team” as in no other squad in the NL East has chance in 2008…thats BS! Meaning other squads ie…METS and even your braves too have just as much chance as being the team in 2008!

As for Rollins and Beltran making comments..I dont give Beltran a pass at all! Our sleepy spoke a full sentance about the squad…as a METS fans im just amazed at that fact! The season will certainly be exciting so im gonna agree with you there! Like I have said before we wouldnt be real fans if we didnt defend our squads! I keep saying it too….. We all have 162 games to play!

LETS GO METS!!!

By KC

February 18, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

OFFENSE: The Braves, Mets, and Phillies are comparable offensively… and each will finish top-5 in the league in runs scored, I would guess. Keep in mind that Phili’s offensive stats are a little inflated due to the fact that they play in a popcorn machine.

ROTATIONS: I think the Braves and Mets are very comparable here as well. The Mets have 2 aces, and so do the Braves. Both are solid 3-5. I like the Braves depth a bit more, but these are very comparable rotations.

The Phillies just don’t match up here. Moving Myers back to the rotation was a good move, but I’m not putting Hamels/Myers up next to Smoltz/Hudson or Santana/Martinez. The rest of their rotation doesn’t match up well either.

BULLPENS: Braves and Mets are again comparable. A lot hinges on Soriano for the Braves, obviously… but I have no worries about him. Mike Gonzalez could tip the scale in this dept. in the second half.

Again, the Phillies don’t quite measure up here either. If Lidge is the Brad Lidge of old, they should be in good shape, at least in the late innings.

The Mets have a couple of Wild Card factors that could make this difference, as do the Braves.

The keys for the Mets are the health of Pedro, and the performance or O.Perez and Maine.

For the Braves… while they’re not counting on either, Hampton and M.Gonzalez could both have an impact.

Anything can happen, but right now I’d call it a toss up between the Braves and Mets for the division.

By Duke

February 18, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Dickey Betts is playing in Savannah on the 9th, but I would recommend anyone who attends to get there a night early for the Kid Rock show. I love his new album.

Love to see Kotsay fitting in so well. He going to be a very nice pickup and I believe him when he says he’s healty.

By Overlord

February 18, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

Who says you cant compare coner infielders FP? i agree you cant compare SS with C or 2B with 3B or CF with RF but you can sure compare 1B with 3B, or if not, which position is harder to field?

By N8

February 18, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

18 Wheels of Love

The band I was playing in in 1994 opened up for Molly Hatchet in Superior Wisconsin at a dive called the Pacific Club.

They had two “younger” guys playing guitar at that time (I don’t think either were original members), but they both had PRS guitars (which I had just bought), so we gabbed a bit.

But the singer (for the life of me I can’t remember his name), was 2/3 of the way through a bottle of Jim Beam at 3:00 in the afternoon at soundcheck.

Needless to say I wasn’t shocked when I read a few years back he died of diabetes after having liver issues and other “alcohol related issues”.

I was never a big fan of theirs. But they kicked a* that night and since then, when I hear Flirtin’ with Disaster on the radio, I just chuckle to myself.

Anyhow….

By kdbanks

February 18, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Agreed that this division is a three team race down to the wire this year. Unlike the Arms Race divisions, the NL East features three top teams that all have questions, but whose fans are all saying the same thing - if we can stay healthy, if our young guys can step up and do a good job, and if our veterans do what we think they’re capable of doing, this is our year!

So to me, it seems, whichever team stays healthiest and gets the most from guys they weren’t expecting too much from, that’s the team that wins the NL East.

Hopefully it’s the Braves, but that means our middle infield plays great, Kotsay and Chipper stay healthy and play to form, Hampton goes 30 times and the bullpen takes care of the late innings. Call me psychic, but if we get those things we’ve got a shot.

DOB - Do you know if the Braves (or other MLB teams) do a standard concussion baseline evaluation before the season like football teams do? I know concussions are less common in baseball, but they do occur and I wonder how much MLB has taken the NFL’s tough lessons on this subject to heart. Just wondering…

KDB

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

February 18, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Four words : Let’s get it on !

Four more words , Snake in the grass.

By kdbanks

February 18, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

By the way, Braveheart isn’t the only number cruncher out here…I just figured out that the Braves magic number currently stands at 162.

By bravesfan79

February 18, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

Yea, bringing back Glavine is something the Braves should of done LAST YEAR!! I knew that taking him back would hurt the mets as much as it would help us, and i shure wasnt dumb enough to rely on mike hampton last year! Last year was lost before the season even started when we didnt go after Glavine, and when we decided to go for “experience” in chris woodcrap and pete orr on the bench instead of taking a chance on someone i saw was special (yet when i said it last spring everyone on the blog said..but hes inexperienced)…blablabla, but i told you, those cubans are a different breed and that Escobar was special!! Glad to say i was right the whole time. Even thou i wish i had been wrong about chris woodcrap, if he could of batted just .230 instead of .175 that would of made a difference.

Please Braves…no more career .190 hitting “utility” men!! Because we all know Bobby cox is going to bat them until the wheels fall off.

By Efrim

February 18, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

The real question is what will the Braves do if they finish in third place for a 3rd consecutive season? I think there will be a lot of mixed opinions on what direction the Braves should go if they do finish in third place.

By DAP

February 18, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

BamaBrave youre already worried about the ‘10 rotation? you are a worrier, my friend.

i wouldnt worry, dude.

even IF smoltz and huddy are gone, which i dont think they will be in ‘10, weve got jurjenns, jojo, james, bennett, boyer, morton, all under our control. thats 4 guys who could be major league starters NOW and two more who arent far off.

none of these guys are #1 guys YET!! but they are major-league caliber. And these are the guy we have of we dont sign or trade for ANYONE! were in good shape, buddy. dont worry about it!

By Overlord

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

I keep reading LETS GO METS, what i dont get is why dont they just go, along with the person that post that phrase. You are free to go, so please GOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!

RUN METS, RUN….AND NEVER RETURN……..

Sound familiar?????

By timmythebrave

February 18, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

beekay, that was great. I pictured roger clemens doing a jack impression. ha ha. BamaBrave, no problem. It doesn’t sound bad there but there is nothing like the small venues for live music but there would be no way to get tickets if radiohead played something smaller. You will have a blast anyways.

By Anders

February 18, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

DOB

(Mets fans would have you believe he’s already in full decline, that his last three starts in 2007 were the precipitous decline; most impartial observers would tell you it’s usually more of a gradual process, and Glavine was too good before those three starts to have done it with a shot arm).

Just to be clear on where I’ve stood regarding Glavine I’ve not said he was done. I’ve tried repeatedly to make two points about him that you and others never seem to get because you only see red when my name appears.

1.) When you and others talk of the Mets historic collapse in 2007 I’ve said you can’t seperate Glavine from it. He wasn’t the only cause of it, but he was dead center of it right until the last day. He did not give them what IMO a HOF veteran pitcher is expected to give them under those dire conditions which is a gutty performance somewhere in the slide to stop the bleeding. Instead he progressively pitched worse.

2.) Tom Glavine over the totality of his career as a Met did not come close to living up to expectations nor his compensation. Overall he was 5 games over .500 with a 4.00 era. He was more than 100 games over .500 with a 3.33 era the previous 15 years as a Brave. Did he pitch well at times? Of course. You continually slice out a 31 game segment. Fine but that’s equal to about 1 year out of the 5 he spent in NY.

Will he slot in as a reliable # 3 or 4 - Probably. That’s not what he was hired and paid to be as a Met.

By Murphy

February 18, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

Look up Paintings by Lew Hartman for his website.

Met’s fans…you have a right to be positive at this point in the season…it is a feeling that comes so rarely for you that I hate to deprive you of your moment of glory! NL East champions!…on paper….

By ncscoots

February 18, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

yet when i said [he was special] last spring everyone on the blog said..but [Escobar’s] inexperienced

Hardly. Some posters here brought up Escobar long before spring training last year, so you weren’t exactly visionary on that score.

The problem with tooting your own horn is that, usually, someone else has previously written the same tune. A thought to hold for future reference…

By Bryan

February 18, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

bravesfan79,

braves couldn’t have resigned Glavine, due to the financial restraints at the time, without trading Hudson - which they almost did.

I really wish the liberty deal would have gone down last winter instead of last summer … man, that 10mil or so extra we had to spend would have made up those 5 games back … (what’s that. 2mil a game?)

By SeattleBravesFan

February 18, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

kudos to beekay…thanks for resharing DOB, for those of us who missed. couldn’t think of a better scenario to use as a parody. that was absolutely perfect…great mid-day laugh…

By Bryan

February 18, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

Lew, i just checked out your website for the first time - great stuff …

i was wondering, have you ever though about merging the surrealism of you B and W “wonderland bar” with your , well, reality based baseball portraits?

Some of your portraits seem to be on the verge of this kind of expression, i would love to see you take the plunge…

By Anders

February 18, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

Anyone watching this Pettitte press conference? He was asked do you see yourself as a cheater for using steroids? After rambling a bit he say’s no. Sorry dude-you have more healing to do if you don’t think you cheated.

Man, when will any of these guys just come completely clean?

By DAP

February 18, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

if you remember last year, the phils got off to a terrible start, getting swept by the red-hot braves, who went on a tear at the start of the season, and the mets were really hot at the start as well.

the braves were in first place when chipper got hurt in pitsburgh… i remember that day. hanging out in my buddy’s apt in athens after a gig…what a bad day that turned out to be. the braves never really recovered, because the weaknesses of the back of the rotation reared its ugly head.

the phils from that point made steady progress and ended up winning it while the mets barely hung on and then blew it in september.

i expect similar things to happen this year, with the mets starting hot and then injuries exposing big problems. the braves will start hot and if chipper gets hurt, we have tex to fall back on which will make a huge difference, and a much much stronger back of rotation. i think the phils will start slow again. thier pitching will be very taxed. when we play them, we just need to make sure we work them hard, and they wont be worth anything by mid-season.

i just hope bobby treats every game like a must-win, cause you never know if one game is what it comes down to.

By HuffBraves

February 18, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Overlord, was that a Lion King reference?

By Efrim

February 18, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

I kind of feel bad for Pettitte right now. Watching him discussing all of this. Oh well. The guy cheated. Maybe he doesn’t beat us in Game 1 of the 2005 NLDS if he wasn’t on HGH.

By THWG

February 18, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

I’m still waiting for someone to dress up as “Bobby’s Cocks”… chicken costumes, of course.

By Andy

February 18, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

Anders, put things into perspective. Say you’re a fantastic golf player, in a long career, and word gets out that you illegally dropped the ball twice in two instances when you hit it in the water. Would you call yourself a cheater? Would you say your whole career is fabricated? Plus he didn’t use steroids, he used HGH two different things. Human Growth Hormone helps grow tissue. Steroids help intensify muscle tissue. Pettitte has come clean. Now, I’m not saying what he did was right, but he did it to repair his body, not to get an advantage, plus, having experience in the medical background, the use of HGH twice would make no difference. Put yourself in his shoes. Believe it or not, these guys have feelings too. We’re all human!

By DAP

February 18, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

anders on galvine: Will he slot in as a reliable # 3 or 4 - Probably. That’s not what he was hired and paid to be as a Met.

exhibit 57a on why the mets suck. stupid decisions like this one. glavine wasnt an ace when he left atlanta, but he was paid to be one in new york. whoops! i sincerely believe he will help make the braves rotation a force in the NL.

By Overlord

February 18, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

Huff yes it was.

By MetsPussycat

February 18, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

OVERLORD - You whine about this same subject like everyday!

In your pouty child’s voice: I dont want to play with the METS kids anymore..they make me mad!!!

Come on…Stop whining and give up the fight! lol

BTW…..

LETS GO METS!!!!!

By bobbymahlon

February 18, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

The argument that Doncoburleone makes that Kelly Johnson is more valuable than Franceour is crazy. How many times has Kelly knocked in 100 or more runs and how many gold gloves has Kelly won, lets get real I take it you do not watch many Braves games.

By DAP

February 18, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

anders did pettite use steriods or HGH? there’s a pretty big difference.

im not sure if i would say guys that did HGH were cheating. it wasnt against the law or the rules in baseball.

steriods is a differnt story.

anyways, ive tried not to opine on the steriods stuff, cause like i said, im just not sure.

By smokin' da doobie

February 18, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

I kind of feel bad for Pettitte right now. Watching him discussing all of this. Oh well. The guy cheated. Maybe he doesn’t beat us in Game 1 of the 2005 NLDS if he wasn’t on HGH.

Yeah. That makes sense. If I did not get drunk twice in 2002 and once in 2004, maybe I would not have flattened a telephone pole with my car in October 2005.

By Overlord

February 18, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

LETS GO MUTS!!!!!!!!

Z Z Z Z Z Z…….

B O R I N G…….

By mike

February 18, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

Beltran said the Mets are the team to beat? Beltran was the author of Mets Choke #1 at the end of 2006.

It’s a little late to swing now, Carlos.

By Overlord

February 18, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

Petite is doing the smart thing, get the smallest possible punishment by being as sincere as he can (or at least tries to look or sound like that). But one thing is not clear to me, if he really thought he was not cheating (own words) why didnt anyone know he was using HGH? The moment he kept it secret, he is admitting it was cheating.

By JM

February 18, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

The Braves should win the division this year. We had the best team in the NL East last year (expected W-L record was better than the Mets and Phillies), but we were undermined by some bad luck. Even with the crappy backend of the rotation, we still should have won the division. It’s not like the Phillies’ rotation was any better. In fact, it was considerably worse. Now that our rotation has been strengthened drastically with the additions of Glavine and Jurrjens and the presumptive return of Hampton, I don’t see why we shouldn’t take the East barring the usual variables such as injuries or general bad luck getting in the way.

By VaBravesfan

February 18, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

BamaBrave: Lakewood Amp used to be awesome. Assume it still is. Saw Tom Petty, Stevie Nicks, and Georgia Satellites there in the 90’s.

By smokin' da doobie

February 18, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

say anders had suffered an injury that prevented him from conducting all of these “important business meetings”, would anders take a magic pill so that he could get back to conducting “important business meetings”?’ Would he consider that cheating?

say anders lost his way and could never find a mets blog and feared that he would be stuck on a braves blog for the rest of his life, would anders take a magic pill so that he could get back to a mets blog?

By Overlord

February 18, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

I didnt notice there was a fight going on. Boys dont fight girls, its against the law, boys law.

By carlos beltran

February 18, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

just browsing ………

By BosnianBaller

February 18, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

You can’t pay attention to Jayson Stark he is a huge phillies fan.I remember him talking about the phillies like they were the best team of all time when they got millwood and thome a few years back

By OrlandoFan

February 18, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

I had not see Beekay’s post as Clemens a la Nicholson… Extremely well done. Hilarious…. Macnamee could be played by Noah Wylie, too. Very, very funny.

By smokin' da doobie

February 18, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

Tom Glavine over the totality of his career as a Met did not come close to living up to expectations nor his compensation.

That is why the Braves did not offer him that money.

Who freaking pays an old a$$ guy who doesn’t throw hard that money and expects him to be an ace?

By PAPA 10

February 18, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

Carlos BELFAN NEEDS 2 PUT UP OR SHUT UP

By midtownBrave

February 18, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

If Hampton makes a decent comeback (and I most certainly believe he will; he has the determination and ability to do just that), then I think the braves rotation will look way better than that of the mets and phillies (maybe even the best in the majors?). The key will be Hampton’s ability to pitch the way he used to (preferably excluding the way he pitched at coors field - i hate that park from a pitcher’s perspective) and I’m not very concerned about his health (I know it is a bold statement to be making after what went down these past few years). So yeah i said it - the guy is healthy and we should stop worrying about that. It can be argued that genetics has a role in ligament strength but not as much as we would think - a ligament tear can happen to the best of the pitchers and the probability of a tear reoccurring in the same pitcher is just the same a tear occurring in any active pitcher. So yeah, i guess what i am trying to say here is that if Hampton can pitch the way he did with the astros and the mets, then we have one of the best if not the best rotation in the majors. And even if Hampton’s not the same pitcher anymore the braves rotation will still be a formidable one (smoltz and glavine are getting old as we speak and that’s sacring me as well). I have faith in Jurrjens becoming an ace somewhere in the future and would like him to be the 5th guy in the rotation. * 1. Hudson 2. Glavine 3. Smotlz 4. Hampton 5. Jurrjens * You can’t beat that rotation. Bennett should get a spot in the bullpen and can serve as the spot-starter to rest the aging smoltz or glavine. James could be the guy just in case someone has to go to the DL.

GO BRAVES!! IT’S TIME TO TAKE BACK WHAT’S OURS!!

By McFann

February 18, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

bobbym

How many times has Kelly knocked in 100 or more runs…

Dude, KJ mostly hit leadoff. Not as many RBI opportunities up there.

…how many Gold Gloves has Kelly won

OK, yeah, maybe you’ve got a point there. When a player takes a crash course over the winter to learn a new position after missing an entire season, he sure as heck should have a Gold Glove!!

Crazy, dude. Crazy.

By CharlieAlphaBravo

February 18, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

Haven’t posted in a while, but y’all have done a great job keeping me entertained. In DOB’s article on Jurjjens, Jair said he thought his parents probably named him after a Brazilian soccer player. While there have been many Brazilian soccer players by the name Jair, the most popular was certainly Jair da Rosa Pinto. Like many of his countrymen, he elected to be known simply as “Jair” while on the field in the 1940’s and 50’s. He was a key part of the 1950 World Cup squad and one of the best Brazilian soccer players of his time. Leave it to CharlieAlphaBravo for the soccer history report… I’m sure most of you are absolutely enthralled with this info, but I thought Jurjjens might be interested to know where his name came from. The anti-soccer-nistas can shove it.

Anyway… I’ve been listening to a lot of great music recently (much of it inspired in some way by the ‘best of 07’ lists on this blog). The Drive-By Truckers’ latest is an early entry for album of the year ‘08, and the Whigs grooved right in behind it with Mission Control. The Whigs are on the verge of blowing up nationally, and it’s really exciting to see. I used to go see these guys at tiny venues like Tasty World in Athens, and pretty soon they’ll be playing arenas. They’ve already been on Letterman, and for those of you that are interested, they’ll be on Conan on Wednesday. And they just released their first music video at yahoo! music. Check out the “Who’s Next” section. That video was filmed at their house in Athens, which I’ve been to more that a few after-show blowouts at, since they were only a couple of blocks from my house. Couldn’t be happier for these guys.

Oh, and one more thing…

Mama ran off with a trucker,

Mama ran off with a trucker,

Mama ran off with a trucker,

PETERBILT!

PETERBILT!

By DAP

February 18, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

sahne victorino said this in stark’s article

“It’s gonna be fun,” said Victorino. “Put it that way. It’s going to be an interesting season. New York Mets 1, Philadelphia Phillies 1. Let’s get it on.”

uh, shane, i think youre forgetting something. how about braves 11, mets 1, phils 1. thats better.

oh yeah, and before that, the braves won 3 times in a row in the west. so, THATS the score.

By midtownBrave

February 18, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

i agree with BosnianBaller. Jayson Stark, whenever he is talking about the phillies, gives a biased opinion. Maybe working for the Philadelphia Inquirer for more than a decade made him that way.

By DAP

February 18, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

McFann i think you missed the point of bobbym’s post. he was responding to someone who thought KJ should be given a contract before frenchy. nothing crazy about his response.

By TennesseePaul

February 18, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

DOB: Thanks for the blog. Good stuff. Glad to hear everyone on the team is geared up to win this season. Maybe it’s just me, but I don’t remember players in the past coming to spring training talking about workout and conditioning programs. There were a few I guess, but it seems these days everyone of them is doing something. One benefit of Free Agency I suppose.

I know this was posted in an alt version the other day. The full version of the testimony cracked me up when I read it. So here it is again. Skip if you like

Congressman: Thank you for coming. Today we will be examining Mr. Clemens and his roll in the steroid scandal in America’s past time. Mr. Clemens it has been alleged in multiple reports, by your former trainer, and by your best friend that you ordered and used performance enhancing substances to resurrect your career in the twilight of your years. This is troubling. If true it is a sad day for the nation and for the sport. Additionally presented to this session is physical evidence which is purported to contain traces of your DNA and illegal performance enhancing drugs. You have denied the charges against you.

Clemens: That is correct

Congressman: Can you explain why McNamee would present this evidence if it is false?

Clemens: [smirks]

Congressman: Is this funny to you?

Clemens: No it isn’t. It’s tragic.

Congressman: Do you have an answer to the question, Mr. Clemens?

Clemens: Absolutely. My answer is I don’t have the first damn clue. Maybe he is paranoid and liked to keep all his trash in his closet. And maybe he didn’t have any friends. I’m an educated man, but I’m afraid I can’t speak intelligently about the habits of Brian McNamee. What I do know is that he was my trainer for a number of years. Now, are these the questions I was really called here to answer? False accusations and 5 year old garbage? Please tell me that you have something more, Congressman. The game of baseball is on trial for its dignity. Please tell me Congress hasn’t pinned its hopes to a pile of garbage.

[Congress hesitates, dumbfounded]

Clemens: Do you have any more questions for me, Congressman?

[Clemens defiantly gets up to leave the room]

Clemens: Thanks, boys. I love Washington.

Congressman: We aren’t finished yet. Sit down.

Clemens: I don’t know what the hell kind of outfit you’re running here.

Congressman: You will address this committee as Sir, or Congressman. Do you have an answer to the accusations and evidence against you?

Clemens: You want answers?

Congressman: I think we’re entitled to them.

Clemens: You want answers?

Congressman: I want the truth!

Clemens: You can’t handle the truth! Son, we live in a world that has sports, and those sports have to be played by men with skills. Whose gonna do it? You? You, Congressman Waxman? I have a greater responsibility than you could possibly fathom. You weep for purity, and you curse HGH. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know. That steroids, while tragic, probably sold tickets. And my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, sold tickets. You don’t want the truth because deep down in places you don’t talk about at parties, you want me on that mound, you need me on that mound. We use words like slider, curve, fastball. We use these words as the backbone of a life spent defending championships. You use them as a punchline. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a man who rises and sleeps under the blanket of the very sports highlights that I provide, and then questions the manner in which I provide it. I would rather you just said thank you, and went on your way, Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a bat, and dig in. Either way, I don’t give a damn what you think you are entitled to.

Congressman: Did you order the HGH?

Clemens: I did the job you paid to see me do.

Congressman: Did you order the HGH?

Clemens: You’re g******* right I did!!

By richbrave

February 18, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

Let’s wait and see how long Santana’s arm holds up. I’ve got a good friend with some indirect connections who feels his arm has been permanently damaged. Short-term he’s O.K., but the word on the street up north is he’s lost some mileage. This is all here-say of course, but my man was a long-time lower minors scout in Virginia up until a couple of decades ago, and thinks there’s something to it. He’s usually right about that sort of thing.

By DonCoburleone

February 18, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

“The real question is what will the Braves do if they finish in third place for a 3rd consecutive season? I think there will be a lot of mixed opinions on what direction the Braves should go if they do finish in third place.”

That is a good question… Although I think this team is pretty much devoted to guys like Chipper, Smoltz, and Hudson at least through the 2009 season… The real rebuilding for this team starts once Smoltz, Chipper, and Hudson are gone/retired.

By Capt. Caveman

February 18, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

WOW — some of you guys get all bent out of shape over nothing. It’s the 1st day of spring training. Maybe ya’ll should do the 3 step process to blogging: 1) STOP & THINK

2) TAKE A DEEP BREATH (maybe hold it for a day or two)

3) OK - NOW POST SOMETHING INTELLIGENT AND WELL SPOKEN.

OH YEAH — maybe let team have a practice or two, maybe even play an actual game, before you start saying what’s what.

After all :

IT IS WHAT IT IS !!

By Lew

February 18, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

Bryan-The Wonderland drawing was an illustration from a specific book by an author friend of mine. When I’m not doing portraits, my typical work would be the piece in the B&W gallery entitled Cameo. I think that is my best piece ever. Really gave up the Surrealism with Hallucinogenic substances about 35 years ago, though the genre is dear to my heart-I love Dali and Magritte’s work. Glad you like the stuff, though.

Rhinestone Cowboy-The only reason I can see that anyone would be interested in MY autograph is if it were attached to a Wurlitzer Award-of which many will be forthcoming, as the Braves’ players have been quite accommodating with autographs of their own. Keep the entertaining posts coming. You never can tell when a surprise may be sprung!!! I may even try to find something appropriate for McFann-IF she remains a good kid.

TampaDawg-There are three prime areas at WWof Sports (The stadium Formerly Known as Crackerjack Field) for signings-The fence next to the batting cages beyond left field is excellent-this is where Chipper usually signs (like about 150 today, alone-what a guy). Both sides of the Braves’ dugouts seem to be favored spots, as well. Sometimes you can get signatures on the back fields, but a long trek to get there is in store.

Rene-Glad you liked the print.

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

We need more CharlieAlphaBravo posts. And Beekay posts, obviously. Beekay, that dialogue will be tough to beat as Post of the Year. Tremendous.

By FLEE HOUND

February 18, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

The Braves are done before they get started. They brough glavine back knowing he’s wash’ed up.They are doing the same thing they did before the 90’s bringing pitchers here to retire.The braves will be 10 games back by the allstar break.pitching wins championships. they don’t have enought starting pitchers that arn’t over the hill.

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

Just filed a B. Pena feature, should be on site later tonight. He’s such a good dude, can’t help but pull for that guy.

By OrlandoFan

February 18, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

Sounds like from all I’ve read that spring training is off to a great start with nothing but good news. No reason to doubt anything, even Hampton’s potential return. Jurgens sounds like has will really push for that No. 4 or 5 spot, and I would be stunned if he doesn’t get it. To me, Hampton is the big foot on all the other dancers’ toes. If he pitches, Chuck goes somewhere, if healthy (though I can’t imagine the bullpen). JoJo will be in AAA. Don’t think they’d want him in the ‘pen, either. But of course, it’s still friendly fire right now and we all should sit a spell and resume the debate in about 6 weeks.

By dcarp23

February 18, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

What’s the story on Tyler Flowers, whom the Braves invited to big league camp? He seems to be one of three non-roster “prospects” up with the big boys this year, though I have never heard of him. He has never played above Rome, so he’s likely a while away, but he had exceptional numbers his first two professional years.

http://www.thebaseballcube.com/players/F/Tyler-Flowers.shtml

By McFann

February 18, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

As far as the backup catcher, I can’t single out who I want to make the team. I like Brayan Pena, but for Roman Gal’s sake, I also hope Javy makes the team. For me, as long as our everyday catcher remains the same, I’m cool. But of course, I still want the backup to be good…

Note to Capt. Caveman:

It’s not the first day of Spring Training.

And Lew, I’ll try. : )

By brian

February 18, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

Anders - the Mets paid Glavine to be an ace. No one else in the National League did. The Braves were not offering that kind of money. Don’t blame Glavine for taking the huge contract. Blame the GM for offering it.

By Wayne in Utah (Hee Haw)

February 18, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

I suppose the answer might come in the Brayan Pena article later tonight, but can he catch and hit well enough to stick? I know there are some who would want Javy to make the club, but unless he hits heads and shoulders better than BPena, I think Javy being around is just a hinderance. I don’t think both of those guys make the club.

It will certainly be interesting to see how the bench fills out over the next 6 weeks. Anderson, BJones and Blanco in the outfield, then you have Thorman/Pena/Lopez/Sammons as potential catchers and first basemen. Then we have Prado, Lillibridge and Infante for the infield. Only 5 of those 10 guys makes it. We could still deal for another piece too.

Who will be Chipper’s primary backup, or would we not worry about that unless the need arises. Several of those guys could play third for a day or so until we got someone else recalled, if needed.

By richbrave

February 18, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

WAYNE IN UTAH:

He can hit. Check his numbers here. Richmond is decidedly a pitchers park. He can hit. Catching not so much.

By The Wizard

February 18, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this

It’s pitching, pitching, itching,….. Mets: 96-66; Braves: 90-72; Phillies: 88-74.

By Capt. Caveman

February 18, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

* HEY MCFOOL *

Whatever. You know what I meant. I bet your the guy at work who sends back everybody’s emails with CORRECTIONS.

By AC

February 18, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

Lew I would like to hear about your morning adventures in bravesland!!!Sounds like a dream come true. Am a chipper fan and Nevada braves fan.

Went to your website this morning—AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!! Love your work!

By DonCoburleone

February 18, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

“The argument that Doncoburleone makes that Kelly Johnson is more valuable than Franceour is crazy. How many times has Kelly knocked in 100 or more runs and how many gold gloves has Kelly won, lets get real I take it you do not watch many Braves games.”

Why is that such a crazy idea? Anyone who understands real baseball statistics know that just because you knock in 100 RBI doesn’t mean you are an elite hitter… I would argue that KJ is a better all around hitter than Francoeur is as of this moment. I mean, just look at the simplest of stats when it comes to judging a hitters overall effectiveness - OPS. In 2007, KJ had an OPS of .832 while Jeff Francoeur had an OPS of .782. Not to mention the fact that an OPS above .800 is ridiculously good for a second baseman while an OPS of .782 for a right fielder is about average…

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 18, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

FLEE HOUND:

put an egg in your shoe and beat it. you and the dog you rode in on.

By richbrave

February 18, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

Brayan Pena. Yunel’s good friend from the Cuban National Team batted .301 here last year. Problem is he’s had three looks in Atlanta, and not shown much. With Cox three strikes and usually you’re out. He had a good winter-ball season. Be interesting to see what O’Brian has to say in his article on Pena.

By Capt. Caveman

February 18, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone

I agree with you 100% on that line of thinking. I believe that KJ and Franky are both valuable in their own ways and while it is hard to compare the 2 together, it is easier to look at them according to their positions around the league. I’m surprised you didn’t point our Andrews rbi’s from last year as to how irrelevant the number’s are to the perception. Decent rbi’s but considered a rally killer by the fans.

By Efrim

February 18, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

DonC

Kelly Johnson is a better player than Frenchy at this moment. I’m not sure how anyone could argue different? When people bring up RBI’s as to why Francouer is better than Kelly, I get depressed that they simply aren’t looking at the stats that actually matter. RBI’s are overrated.

Now regarding what you wrote at 4:48PM,

I think you could make the arguement that it could be better for the franchise if they went another direction. Three straight 3rd place finishes would be pretty tough. I mean, what would be the point? Especially if they can’t resign Teixiera. Look at what the White Sox are doing. It is stupid. They aren’t going to finish better than 3rd place in the AL Central with the current roster that they have, yet they traded the best three prospects in their organization for Nick Swisher when they should of held onto them. The Mets and Phillies aren’t as good as the Indians and the Tigers, but I hope you understand where I am coming from.

By Lew

February 18, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this

McFann-And make sure you eat all your vegetables.

By DAP

February 18, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

DonCourburleone The real rebuilding for this team starts once Smoltz, Chipper, and Hudson are gone/retired.

gotta disagree with you, man. this team will never rebuild. it isnt the way the braves work. the braves will be just as competitive when those guys are gone as they are now.

the steady flow of talent into this team insures that when those guys you mentioned are gone, the guys that are behind them now will step up and be the leaders that keep the braves dynasty alive.

By Lew

February 18, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this

AC-Glad you enjoyed the art work. It was definitely a good morning. Meeting Chipper AND Bobby Cox was quite an experience. Wil Ohman, too. He’s a great guy-I’ll bet he’s a good clubhouse presence.

By FLEE HOUND

February 18, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

Hey Daybed wagmoe Hope you get hit in the face with some dog crap in stead of steping in it. turd head.

By McFann

February 18, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

Wow. That was a nice article about Pena. Gotta pull for the guy. I was really ticked when he lost his backup catcher’s job last year…until the Teixiera trade, of course.

Capt. Caveman:

Nope, sorry. I don’t know what you were talking about. I guess you were just referring to the other day, but whatever.

And no, I’m not “the guy at work who sends back everybody’s e-mails with corrections”. Dude, I don’t go to “work”, I gotta finish high-school first. But come to think of it, you did spell my name wrong…

Don’t worry, Lew, I ate all my string beans tonight. >P

By Efrim

February 18, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

DAP

Would you give up a couple of seasons, say 2009 and 2010, to be a serious World Series contender in 2011? The reason I say this is because I don’t think the Braves can resign Mark Texieira. Now, I agree with you, the Braves don’t rebuild. They won’t do it. Even if they don’t win 80 games this year, and lose the division by 15 games, they still won’t ever rebuild.

By GermanBravesFan

February 18, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

Has anyone seen this video about the Phillies pulling a prank on one of their young pitchers (Kendrick)? They told him he had been traded to Japan… everyone was involved, including the manager!!

http://video.msn.com/video.aspx?mkt=en-US&brand=foxsports&vid=1993d333-bf2c-4ab2-8106-cb5c2f5b4acd&MSNHPHMA

By Sandy

February 18, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

DOB Love the posts and the updates. I keep looking for you in Braves camp ‘cause I want to shake your hand.

Lew Good to meet you today. I too love the wurlitzer and how it draws the players to you. Thanks for the education. Oh yeah, as promised, I am a lurker no more. Sandy is in the house and looking forward to helping out the misguided Mets fans. It’s like shooting fish in a bucket….too easy.

By DonCoburleone

February 18, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this

I totally agree Efrim. Another 3rd place finish and this team needs to seriously consider going into “rebuilding mode”. I mean, with the way the Phillies and Mets are currently constructed they will have their core group of guys around for at least another 4 years (Philly: Howard, Utley, Rollins, Myers, Hamels……….Mets: Reyes, Wright, Beltran, Santana, Maine). If we have a third straight 3rd place finish then what is the point? Now as far as what exactly “rebuilding mode” entails I am not sure, but my guess is to see what we could get for our proven commodoties (maybe see what we could get for Hudson, KJ, Diaz, and yes, even Chipper).

By Lew

February 18, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

DonC-Moot point since we won’t come in third this year. That’s the Mets’ spot.

By savannah dawg

February 18, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this

We will win the WORLD SERIES this year!!!!!

By Shamus Thacker

February 18, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

Have any of you seen the video of Pedro Martinez participating in chicken fights. Hands-on participation, actually in the ring urging his chicken to scrap!

When PITA sees it, his azz is grazz… lol

By Efrim

February 18, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

DonC

It is a difficult team to rebuild with because of how many young players are already on the team. I believe Kelly Johnson and Jeff Francouer aren’t free agents until after 2011. McCann is under our control through 2012. With the losses we might receive because of Tex departing, Glavine and Hampton leaving, the Braves best bet may be look toward the future. When it comes down to it though, this team will never rebuild because of the young talent that it currently has. Even though it might be better for them in the future.

By Shamus Thacker

February 18, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

Or is it PETA? Hell, don’t know, don’t care.

By Efrim

February 18, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

Lew

For conversational purposes, lets say we did come in third. What are your thoughts on that type of a movement- rebuilding? I’d be interested to hear your thoughts on that. You are a pretty optimistic Braves fan, so I would think that you would be totally against the idea.

By Smoky Joe Wood

February 18, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

To me, the two biggest question marks for the Braves this year are 1) Yunel and 2) Kotsay. Kotsay is easy; an older dude with recent injury history. And he’s never been a superstar; he needs to be close to his best to be above the major-league average.

Yunel, on the other hand, is different. The Braves have invested a lot on 2/3 of a season of data. They believe he is a suitable replacement for Renteria. (Not saying they believe he will be equivalent to Edgar, but they thought he made Edgar expendable.) That seems to me to be our biggest gamble, that a guy with this little history to back it up is being counted on to be an offensive key (leadoff? second?) and starting shortstop. I hope they are right, but it seems to me today to be our biggest area of risk. (Lillibridge diminishes the risk, but remember that he was ticketed for AAA til recently.)

By flange1

February 18, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

Never trying to talk for Lew, but have seen your posts and wanted to respond.

I don’t think a “blow-up” of the existing team will happen because after this year Glavine, Hampton and Tex are all supposed to be gone. If we get lucky and sign Tex, all the better.

Excluding Chipper and Smoltz, who is there to get rid of? Do you decide that McCann, Frenchy, KJ and Escobar just aren’t good enough and trade them for prospects?

I don’t think so. If the current Braves looked like the Giants, then I could see a real re-grouping by management with an “Out with the old, in with the new” but with this team, as young as it is, I don’t see a real blow up if the team does not win the division this year.

As you and I have discussed, I think the Braves might look at young stud pitchers to invest in like Kaz with the Rays and I think they will look harder at that if the team loses this year.

My 2 cents…

What do you think? You are a pretty darn knowledgeable fan who knows the Braves minor league system WAY better than most, what do you think will happen?

By McFann

February 18, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this

Lew—

Still can’t get over you meeting Bobby!! That is so cool!! I’d love to meet Bobby Cox. Saw a photo on the AJC page of him signing autographs for some fans. Man!! I wish we could get down there!!

By DAP

February 18, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

Efrim Would you give up a couple of seasons, say 2009 and 2010, to be a serious World Series contender in 2011?

i dont like the choices. i dont want to ever “give up” a season. absolutly not.

why would the braves need to rebuild in the foreseeable future anyways? they have so many young players under their control for the next several years. i dont think the braves needing to rebuild is even something to consider. theres just no need for it.

we finish third again? ok. weve still got a young core of frenchy, bmac, escobar, KJ. weve still got chipper, smoltz, and hudson under contract. weve still got a closer… why rebuild? we basically rebuilt the team in 2005.

the braves are a long long way from needing to rebuild.

By DonCoburleone

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

“the guys that are behind them now will step up and be the leaders that keep the braves dynasty alive.”

Thats just it, there is no “dynasty” anymore! Two straight playoff-less seasons means we are no longer in the upper 25% of major league baseball teams (8 teams out of 32 make the playoffs, or 25%)…

By Andy

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

DOB:Wouldn’t it make sense to keep Pena on the big club’s roster as Scott Thorman’s replacement and trade Thorman? I mean, with everyone raving about Javy, and how he’s improved his defense, it’s pretty much a sure thing he’s the back-up, and then you’ve got Corky Miller, Clint Sammons, and J.C. Boscan for AAA. I mean, Pena’s got the same if not more upside than Thorman, and can be useful off the bench and at a variety of positions. Thanks

By David O'Brien

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

“Rebuild?” Seriously? Well, debate it all your want, but if you’ll allow reality to enter the conversation, I can assure you the Braves are not going to do any sort of “rebulding” project in any conventional sense. They simply are not. That’s what the Marlins and other teams with no payroll and no revenue do.

Braves fans, at least the vast majority of them, don’t want anything to do with a rebuilding project. Efrim, have you just completely forgotten the “Baby Braves” of three years ago? I mean, really. That was the youngest contending team in the majors, and that, if anything, was the rebuilding year. The rebuilding is done. It’s tweaking now, adding a player here, an affordable free agent there, and working a prospect or two per year into the lineup and/or rotation.

Of course, that’s just me offering reality. Continue to debate hypothetical situations that aren’t going to occur all you want.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

February 18, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

Four or five outfielders , that is the question.

Cox has always carried two center fielders. Kotsay and Anderson fit the mold. Schafer and Borchard will get a look , but that is all. Did Gregor Blanco even get an invite to the Braves big league camp ?

Then we have the platoon debate over the two corner outfielders of Matt Diaz and Brandon Jones in left field. Will it be a platoon or not.

Francoeur in right field…. the Gold Glove Iron Man , no further discussion needed.

Barring injury , I say Bobby sticks with his usual four man outfield consisting of Frenchy , Kotsay , Diaz and Anderson to start the season with.

By The Wizard

February 18, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

The Hatchet Heads will beat out the Fillies…for second place. They are a better all around team. Metropolitans win it all.

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

Sandy, good to have you here…

Efrim, just read up higher and saw your post at least acknowledging you realize the Braves aren’t going to rebuild.

And so, what’s the point in discussing it? As someone said, you’ve only got a few older veterans on the team in key positions anyway. And you’re not going to release Chipper, who’s still one of the better players in the league.

Glavine will likely retire after one or, at most, two seasons back with the Braves. And Smoltz will be a Brave as long as he’s able to do the job, which is the way almost every Braves fan I’ve talked to would have it.

So what are you talking about rebuilding? McCann, Francoeur, Escobar, K.J., Schaefer, Brandon Jones — that’s probably six of your eight starting position guys, all young and relatively cheap for several or more years to come. And if K.J. doesn’t do the job defensively, Lillibridge can. Or Lillibridge can be your super-utility guy, or you can trade him as part of a deal for a young starter.

By Overlord

February 18, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

I dont agree with that rebuilt stuff…. last years problems are already gone…….

1. wickman

2. wickman

3. woodward

4. woodward

5. orr

6. orr

7. james as #3 (with luck he´ll be 5th)

8. redman

9. redman

10. redman

Isnt that rebuilding ? Every single position player is a good to great player. 4 starters with the potential to go into half of fame and great guys competing for 5th spot, and a bullpen that is second to none at least in the NL.

Rebuilt? come on, if team finishes 3rd, it will be bobbys fault.

By Kieran, Long Island Brave Fan

February 18, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

On Matt Desalvo:

I saw the kid pitch in just about all his starts last year as I watch nearly every Yankee game with disdain. The numbers are not good and his performances didn’t pan out very well either, however you could tell something was there. He’s similar to Mike Mussina in many ways and throws a biting knuckle curve. A very cerebral pitcher, But I beleive he will be 27 this year so the window is closing. Out of all the young stop gap pitchers the yankees used early in the year, I definatly liked him the best and he really did stand out to me(Rasner, Karstens, Clippard and Wright would be the others I was refering too, not the big boys at the end of teh year).

I stood up when I heard the Braves signed him and said outloud “Now THERE’S a Guy to watch”. I personally would be shocked if he didnt find his way onto the 25 man roster.

I was pretty suprised he was available. the yankees must have just looked at his age and thought he peaked. We shall see though.

Also Dave,

I should be at camp this year. The High School team I coach will be down at Disney for a tournament between March 24th-28th, so if the times don’t conflict I’d like to catch a game. I don’t know how availble you are to talk to during the games but it would be cool to say Hello. If you can let me know. Thanks.

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 18, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

that full picture of Chipper and Hampton looks a bit weird — like those are Chipper’s hands on the steering wheel and his left leg below it.

SmokyJoeWood — Kotsay and Yunel are question marks, but no way are the biggest ones on the team. With the Braves’ offense, they won’t be relied on too much as everyone else should do quite well.

Kotsay just turned 32; he’s not very old. I’ll bring up a point that DOB made about a month or so ago (and confused the hell out of some of us): his “best” year was 2004, when he hit .314/.370/.459 with 15 HR and 63 rbi. His career numbers are .282/.337/.415, which are pretty good. I’d just say that the Braves would hope he’d hit somewhere close to his career numbers.

Regarding Yunel, don’t forget that the Braves have his 3 minor league seasons to go on as well. Sure, he’s a risk but showed last year that he can perform at the major league level, especially in some very key at-bats. And it wasn’t like he showed a lot after September call-ups or anything — he played in 94 games (served as a pinch-hitter in 12), so that’s a very good sample.

And Braveheart — DOB’s right, those closer stats from earlier today were very impressive.

By Efrim

February 18, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

DOB

Nice. I knew you would jump all over that post. Honestly, I really just wanted everyones feelings on the thoughts of actually rebuilding. It doesn’t really work for the Braves because of how much young talent they actually have and how quickly replenish the minor leagues.

I have a friend that is a White Sox fan, and he thinks Kenny Williams is an idiot for doing what they are doing. They are going to finish in third place this season and probably should of held onto some of the players that they traded away in the Nick Swisher deal.

It would just be interesting to see what the Braves would do if they finished in third and then lost Teixiera in free agency. But like you said, they will continue to do what they usually do after losing players, rebuilding on the move and still being a contender.

By The Man

February 18, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

If you were around in the 70’s and much of the 80’s as a Braves fan, the words rebuild are for suckers. It seems like ths Falcons have been rebuilding for their existence in Atlanta except for the super bowl year. No thanks…just as soon the Braves make a run at winning it all every year. i think this has been the case the past 2 seasons also even though they ended up in 3rd place both years.

By Overlord

February 18, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

Im with ya DOB, the only reason braves would finish #3 would be because the division is loaded and yes you can include the marlins and nationals, they are not great but they wont be no joke.

Personally i think this is our best chance to win it all in a long time, great team, 1 or 2 things missing but every team has at least that.

1. would be speed.

2. Would be a young superstar stud #1, but i think we are just fine with what we have, enough.

3. maybe a bench with more dangerous guys, but we are better than last year.

By Murphy

February 18, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

Andy, I am not sure where I read it, but one of the reasons for keeping Thorman around was the way Morneau developed up in Minn…apparently they hoped he was on the same type of path…Again, I don’t remember where I read that last year.

By Lew

February 18, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

Efrim-Rebuilding? Dude- we’re trying to sign Tex long term. We have a not even arbitration eligible player at second,at short and with Brandon Jones in left. Frenchy is a third year player and McCann, too.

Then you have James Jurrjens, Acosta, Boyer, and all that bunch of young pitchers coming up. Add to that mix Schaeffer and Heyward and who else you going to rebulid? A third baseman?

By Efrim

February 18, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this

Overlord

If the Braves finish in third, it will be Bobby’s fault???

I disagree. If the Braves finish in third, it will probably be because the Phillies and Mets simply played better than the Braves. I don’t think you could blame it on BC.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

February 18, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

I just love all these “Clemens apologists”. They are all just mindless idiots. I mean really, come the hell on!

If Clemens is telling the truth that means a plethora of people are lying and conducting a conspiracy against him. If somebody wants to say McNamee is a lying then I will buy it. But, what about Andy Petitte? Why would he lie? Why would Chuck Knoblauch lie? Am I really to believe that McNamee is telling the truth about Petitte, Knoblauch, and Clemens’ wife Debbie but is lying about Clemens himself? Why? What motivation would McNamee have to lie. And, yes, he wasn’t upfront about everything at first but that was because he was protecting Clemens and Petitte.

People, use what few brain cells you have. If McNamee was just a random liar then why not include Derek Jeter, Jorge Posada, and Mariano Rivera. He was the Yankees trainer until 2001. And, if Clemens thought this guy was so slimy then why did he say as recent as last spring that he thought McNamee was “one of a kind”; “a great guy”; and would “employ him as his trainer anytime”? That doesn’t sound like a guy who thought McNamee was that slimy!

Folks, wake up and smell the lidocaine! Clemens’ story is full of holes and makes no damn sense. The obvious Barry Bonds hatred and Clemens’ apologists makes me ill!

And, for those who keep questioning Petitte’s credibility by stating that he lied when he said he only took HGH in 2003 when he was hurt, that is asinine. First of all, Petitte said he took HGH in 2003 three times which is exactly what McNameee said. He didn’t mention that he took it in 2004 but he never said he ONLY took in 2003. And to me that fact that he admitted taking it in 2004 when he got HGH from his father only enhances his credibility because he didn’t have to say a damn word about that. The only people who knew that were he, his father, and his wife and his father and wife weren’t about to say anything.

Until somebody can give me an intelligent reason why not only McName but Petitte, Knoblauch, Clemens’ nanny, and Mike Stanton are lying I will continue to believe that Roger Clemens is a bold face liar!

By SeattleBravesFan

February 18, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

rebuilding???…that is the most ridiculous comment i could imagine. how can any fan look at this roster and even think of a concept such as rebuilding??? the team is filled with good young talent. DOB is dead on that the baby braves year from a few years ago was as close to rebuilding as this team will do or be doing in the foreseeable future.

rebuilding? we talkin about rebuilding? rebuilding?

By Efrim

February 18, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

Lew

I agree. Just wanted to see what you had to say. Personally, I don’t value the pitchers you listed as high as you do, and I don’t think resigning Tex long term makes sense unless the payroll goes higher than 110 million.

By Murphy

February 18, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

Rebuilding for the Braves is JS moving to president and FW moving to GM. SEAMLESS!

By mr baseball

February 18, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

This has little or nothing to do with the Braves, but it’s kind of interesting to ponder with no real news coming out of camps that don’t have steroid/HGH users having to offer totally sincere mea culpas.

How good would this pitching staff have looked a year or 2 ago: Starters — Bartolo Colon, Freddy Garcia, Jeff Weaver, Odalis Perez, Eric Milton. Bullpen — Ostuka, Benitez, Wickman, Alfonseca, Mesa, Villone.

Every one of those guys is available and unsigned with training camps opening. So are Piazza, Sosa, Lofton, Corey Patterson, Shawn Green & Shannon Stewart. Given Lofton’s penchant for winding up on teams that play in October, somebody is going to have to sign him at some point. If Kotsay’s back goes out, what are the chances of the Braves giving him a look?

About the same, I’d guess, as a Ron Paul-Dennis Kucinich ticket representing the ET party sweeping into the White House in November.

By Greg in TN

February 18, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

Evening lads and lasses…

Earlier post seems to have been eaten, but it all works out in the end. Cringed after I clicked ‘Post’ and saw a run-on sentence after not fully fleshing out a thought, so I for one appreciate the second chance. I’ll paraphrase my thoughts from before for general consumption now.

I’m quite comfortable flying under the radar, nobody paying us any attention at all. It worked well for us in ’91, let the amazin’ mediocre fans and the fans of brotherly love beat their chests and argue amongst themselves who’s going to win. After all, Shakespeare, who it could be said never had to face Chipper and Tex back-to-back did say “uneasy lies the head that wears the crown.” The fans of Flushing found that out last year and the Pfilly Pfans might very well find that out this year. Nothing like a spotlight or a target on one’s back when negotiating a 162 game marathon.

Everything I have read on Jurrjen’s suggest the guy is really top notch and I also liked what I heard from him in interviews done since he’s made the move to the ATL. I also like the idea that Jurrjens is locating his off-speed pitches. Makes him very dangerous with the quality heater he totes around, and it’s nice to see a guy keeping a sinker low in the zone as opposed to some rather notorious (and not in the DOB-like way, denizens) sinkerball pitchers we’ve had in the recent past. Of course, Jurrjens being able to fire a fastball 95+ really helps him out and differentiates him from the other guys.

By McFann

February 18, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

Hey, Daybed, you’re correct!! It does look like Chipper’s driving!! Huh huh…weird!

Oh hey, Capt. Caveman! You want corrections? I’ll give you corrections:

But there’s no doubt the left thumb that was badly bruised by an opponent’s bat in the season’s third week and a bone spur in his left ankle played a part. Bowman on McCann

OK, first of all, it was his ring finger that he injured; and it was originally injured by a pitch that hit the finger at the beginning of the season’s fourth week. It was hit by Rod Barajas’ swing in the season’s fifth week. But he’s got the bone spur in the correct ankle.

By DAP

February 18, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone nope. the braves will alwyas be a dynasty.

DOB exactly what i was saying. yes.

By Brad in MT

February 18, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

I haven’t posted in a while, but great discussions the past week or so with Spring Training starting. I feel really good about this years team. The Mets and Phils are both good teams and its going to be a three team race. With all the young talent many of you were referring to, we have a lot to look forward to now and in the future.

By Overlord

February 18, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

You are right Efrim, what i meant was that if braves dont perform well enough to win at least 85 games, you can give big part of the blame to bobby.

By Kev

February 18, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

SI.com is such a DUMB@$$

They think ESCOBAR is JUST A UTILITY PLAYER!!!! Whatttttttttttt!!!! there must be on another planet covering another person called Escobar look at this BS:

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

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

HA! Escobar is gonna show U guys!!! what he’s made Of!!!! The SKY IS THE LIMIT FOR THIS KID!!! how can these guys say that he’s just a utility player??? OH!!! this is Hilarious!!!

THEY SAY THAT GREGOR BLANCO IS “probably a better player”than 32-year old Mark Kotsay!!! and that We have no CF despite trading for two “NOMINAL” ones… hahahahaha!!! that one was good??? then what??? that BRAYAN PEÑA is better than McCann or Thorman better than Teixeira???? and “bullpen is a shame”??? HEY SI.com look at the Mets Bullpen THAT’s a SHAME!!!

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

Regarding the bone spur in McCann’s ankle: He’s still got it, just for the record.

He said it doesn’t cause any problems, at least for now. But you’ve gotta wonder if the next time it does become an issue, he might need to get it shaved off. That’s something I’m sure he’d do in an offseason, and just endure the pain if it crops up again during this or any season.

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

And I somehow forgot to mention Heyward when I was listing the young, talented and relatively cheap or outright cheap players the Braves have under contractual control for the next 3-5 (or more) years.

If there’s not a spot for Heyward at a corner outfield position, there could be at 1B. He’s a keeper.

Obviously Braves will probably end up trading one of these top young prospects (Lillibridge, B. Jones, or Heyward) if everybody else stays healthy and keeps developing. No way to know how all that’s going to work out, obviously. But point is, there’s a lot of young talent that’s now at the major league level or waiting at the door.

By JT

February 18, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

DOB

Didn’t McCann had a type of surgery this past offseason??? minor or something like that??? i thought i heard something in the offseason and thought it was to fix the bone spur or something.

By Overlord

February 18, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

Top fielders ranked in new statistical system

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

No, McCann didn’t have postseason surgery. Teixeira had surgery to repair minor cartilage damage in a knee, right after season.

By Wide Right

February 18, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

Thinking about Andy’s suggestion to trade Thorman and keep Pena. Like everyone else, I’d like to keep Pena and it’s not a bad idea. But Thorman is a lot of power off the bench and we are arguably lacking in power nowadays. Remember, Thorman is the guy that made the homeboy upstairs feel okay about losing Laroche. He’s got to have potential. And he can platoon with Diaz if BJones isn’t up to snuff…and I dont think he is yet.

By CharlieAlphaBravo

February 18, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

DOB: Thanks for the encouragement, I appreciate it… I just haven’t been posting much recently because we’re so close to showtime. I have to try to ignore the itch, because scratching it just makes it worse. Of course, that won’t stop me from stopping by three or four times a day to see how everything is progressing. I already learned my lesson a week or two ago. I hadn’t checked the blog in two or three days (which rarely happens), and I returned to find that someone suspicious had been posting under the infamous pseudonym “U Kno Who.” I read most of the posts and caught up, but I felt like I had missed a key moment in Braves blog history. Oh well, at least I was there when Sid slid….

By Duke

February 18, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

Do you see us running a little more this year? Yunel has good speed as well as Kotsay and Kelly, whichever one of them bat 2nd. But then again, im not sure how much i would want either one of them risking it in front of Hoss and Tex.

By Wide Right

February 18, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I live in NYC. A friend invited me join him at the Beacon to see the Allman Bros. Tickets aren’t cheap. If I see them play live today is it worth it? No Dicky and, of course, no Duane…is that like seeing Skynard now or Creedence Clearwater Revisited or does it bare enough resemblance to old days that its still worth the price of admission.

Saw Fogerty a couple months back in NYC…now that was a great show.

By CharlieAlphaBravo

February 18, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

Oh, and by the way…

Carlos Beltran drew a line in the proverbial sand when he claimed that the Mets were “the team to beat (in the NL East this year).” Rollins expressed the same sentiment at the beginning of last season, and the Phillies were indeed champions of the NL East at the end of the year. But with statements like these, their immidiate impact is usually how they can best be measured… And lest we forget, Jimmy Rollins’ bold words last season provided ample “bulletin board” material for the Braves clubhouse, and our beloved Bravos responded by promptly sweeping the Phillies in their first meeting of the season. Let us hope that Beltran’s comments have the same inspirational effect on the Braves when we meet them in the first weekend series of the season…

By David O'Brien

February 18, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

wide right, allmans are still a very solid live band. well worth the price, as i’m sure anyone here who’s seen them in recent years can attest.

night all

By The Goche (A.J.)

February 18, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

Kev:

It looks like that deal on SI.com may have been “courtesy” of Baseball Prospectus.

They are not big Yunel fans to say the least. And it is funny that some of the national prospect media has taken such an interest in Brent Lillibridge.

There is a camp, of which the BP guys are a major proponent, who are not into Escobar. For them his baseball card reads “Yunel Escobar, IF” and he’s just going to have to prove it to them that he should have an SS after his name.

If you aren’t familiar with them they try to boil the game down into stats that are more direct indicators of talent, as opposed to things which could benefit from luck, like AVG, errors, etc.

The problem is that, while they have certainly opened up some very good points about things that we have long ignored, they can’t explain everything in those terms.

They tend to be pretty absolute in their language and when they decide you aren’t good that’s going to be what they stick with until you totally disprove them or start putting up the numbers they like.

I don’t know their argument for why Escobar actually sucks and their concerns may be valid, but a lot of people will say that a guy who hit .294 for his career in the minors, who hits (well) over .300 in his rookie year, is someone you can be excited about.

He’s no sure thing, but I agree that it’s unfair to declare him utility infielder, esp. after last season.

By Robert

February 19, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this

“We’ll fly under the radar, Dave,” manager Bobby Cox told me this morning, and he smiled and left it at that.”

The above is actually a translation. Here is the original transcript

Bobby Cox - “Hee Haw” (smiles)

By GoBravos

February 19, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this

The only reason the phillies won last year is because the mets had the biggest collapse ever. the phillies get off to a horrible start every year. as good as the mets and us are, the phils wont be able to catch up. starting pitchers get hurt more than anyone, and we have 8. how many do the mets and phils have? not to mention our back end is better.

DOB,

how is manny acosta looking? he looked so great the end of last year, is he keeping that up? do u think he’ll play a pretty big role in our bullpen this year?

By Robert

February 19, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this

The Mets, Phillies, and Braves all three have rosters that SHOULD win 90-95 games

The Braves will play September tyring to finish at .500 while the Mets and Phillies fight for playoff spots

Take one guess why

By GoBravos

February 19, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this

the phillies cant start, and the mets cant finish, never have been able to except two years ago and cont go back 22 years to argue that im talking about the recent past; now the bravos have put the team together that can compete with the depth to sustain injuries, so why robert?

By Logan23

February 19, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this

Marlins New Stadium Apparently the architect is on something other than HGH. Projected opening 2011. Bring your laser swords.

By Robert

February 19, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this

Cuz one of one guy who is NOT in the Mets or Phillies dugout but who routinely turns various shades of blue in the Braves dugout b*** about the umps balls and strikes calls

By NY Jay

February 19, 2008 1:38 AM | Link to this

For what it’s worth. The Braves in ‘07 and ‘06 were statistically better than the Mets but still finished in 3rd place.

Statistically the Mets, pictched, hit and fielded about the same in ‘06 and ‘07 but had two very different results.

The Phillies in the past 3 seasons have not picthed or fielded well but hit lights out.

The only true sign of a potential division winner is very good, healthy starters.

Philly in ‘07 is the exception to that rule. Philly starters were not very good in september and Kyle Lohse not Hamels, was their most reliable starter. The Philly offense would win games that the 3-5 spots in the rotation had no business winning. Thats baseball.

The Phillies have added Lidge to the bullpen and placed Myers in the rotation. However, they will still suffer from their 3-5 spots and will continue to rely on their bats to win games. Lohse could make a difference but they have chosen Kris Benson(mr straight fastball himself) instead.

The Braves suffered all year from a top heavy rotation. 1-2 were very good 3-5 were mediocre and the team played to the abilities of the pitchers. The Braves played well when Smoltz and Hudson pitched and mediocre when others pitched. Glavine should help the 3 spot of the rotation but what about 4-5?

The Mets suffered from having too bland a rotation top to bottom. None of the starters were “spectactular”, they were just “good” or “decent.”

The Mets needed a “stopper” in september. They got flashes from some guys but it wasn’t consistent. The lack of a legit number one starter was the Mets’ ultimate weakness. Hitters were not intimidated by Glavine and Maine and perez even if they performed well at times.

Here is the biggest factor in which of thses teams will win the division: which one of these pitchers will have more of an impact; Glavine, Myers or Santana?

By justdoit

February 19, 2008 2:25 AM | Link to this

i wish out of nowhere i read that the braves trade for joe blanton - can you imagine that rotation..smotlz-hudson-blanton-glavin-hampton - now that would be very nice - even though its looking pretty good how it is right now - just hope its jair over james for that 5th spot.

By Robert

February 19, 2008 4:51 AM | Link to this

By the way, regarding the whole Roger Clemens deal. Has anyone considered the one scenario whereby both McNamee and Clemens could actually be telling the truth?

That is, McNamee TOLD Clemens that he was injecting him with B-12 while he was actually injecting him with steroids and/or HGH.

They then are both telling the truth, as they “KNOW” it. Then you can conjecture all you want about whether Clemens suspected, and if so, to what degree, that the stuff was in fact not B-12.

It’s the only scenario that makes sense (and therefore, the most likely one to be true)

By HEEEE HAW !

February 19, 2008 6:38 AM | Link to this

Then Andy Pettitte must be telling the truth when he MISHEARD Clemens say that he was taking HGH.

Chuck Knoblauch knew it was HGH and steroids. He told the truth.

Andy Pettitte knew it was HGH. He told the truth.

Debbie Clemens knew it was HGH. She told the truth.

Brian MacNamee knew it was HGH and steroids. He tried to cover for Clemens and only told the truth after the Feds threatened jail time.

That makes Roger Clemens the dumbest S.O.B. alive if he really believes his own B-12 lies.

No wait , that title belongs to you DONKEY BOY. HEEE HAW , HEEE HAW , HEEE HAW , HEEE HAW

By Capt. Caveman

February 19, 2008 6:41 AM | Link to this

Robert

I said the same thing to a friend of mine the other day. Why would McNamee keep the syringes and gauze? If Clemens really did ask him for HGH why would they want evidence laying around? It could be possible that he did it without Clemens knowing. Of course you would really be a whacko with an axe to grind to do that to somebody. I’m not saying it happened like that, I’m just saying it’s possible.

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 6:49 AM | Link to this

GoBravos, regarding Acosta: He looks the same in early workouts, looks sharp and seems much more relaxed in the clubhouse. He was a nervous kid who spent a lot of time looking toward the floor when he walked past you last year. Seems more at ease this year. Understandable, since he’ll, yes, play a big role in the bullpen. Setup-type role, perhaps….

Regarding the 4:51 post: Umm … yeah, sure.

By Robert

February 19, 2008 7:23 AM | Link to this

“That makes Roger Clemens the dumbest S.O.B. alive if he really believes his own B-12 lies.”

No. Clemens “knows” deep down what the stuff was. But the only thing he “knows” legally is what he was told officially - that it was B-12

By Capt. Caveman

February 19, 2008 7:27 AM | Link to this

HEY DOB

Your up early today. Hope your enjoying the sun down there.

So when and who is the first golf match Smoltz is working on?

By cmac

February 19, 2008 8:02 AM | Link to this

So DOB…

-Javy or Pena as backup catcher? (Javy is cuter, and IF he can hit, he’s the better hitter. But Pena is younger, cheaper, and has a future.)

-Escobar or Lillibridge at SS? (The national sports columnists seem to be down on Escobar, and think Lillibridge will eventually win that job. True?)

-Leadoff hitter: KJ or Yunel? (I say KJ because of his experience.)

-Jones or Anderson as fourth outfielder? (I’ve seen them both, and can’t understand why the Braves seem locked onto Jones, when Anderson has more experience, more speed, and seemingly more upside.)

-Chucky or Bennett as fifth starter? (Assuming Hampton stays healthy and Jurrjens is 4th. If Hampton’s hurt, it’s Jurrjens and Chucky at 3rd and 4th, and the debate becomes “Bennett or Moylan as fifth starter?”)

-Ginger or MaryAnn? (Definitely MaryAnn. I just saw Dawn Wells in a play, believe it or not, and she’s still cute as a button.)

By bob cox

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

cmac:

glavine is 3rd, in case you havent noticed

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 8:18 AM | Link to this

Escobar or Lillibridge at SS? That’s not even worth addressing. Whatever “national sports columnist” is saying that doesn’t know his head from his a@&.

And Ginger, no question. Those dresses, those hips, that hair…

By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy

February 19, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

cmac:

-Javy -Escobar -Yunel -Jones -Huh?? -Mary Ann, hands down.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this

This whole mess gives me all the more appreciation for Fred McGriff. Stuck on 493 home runs, he is not often talked about as a future Hall of Famer. It’s hard to say that you believe anyone did it naturally but if there ever was a guy, I would have to believe it was McGriff. Long, lean, wiry, and powerful.

I know there are certain roids that can make one ripped instead of big but wouldn’t you expect a dramatic change in performance? McGriff never really had that. Never hit 40 homers. Just went out and hit 30 homers every year for 15 years.

McGriff had legit power before all of these other frauds had power. His 30 homer streak started in 1988 when it actually was a great feat to hit 30 homers.

I know some players were on the juice before 1994 but weren’t those likely the guys to be bulky? It seems like the advances in PEDs in the post strike era have enabled players to be more ripped instead of bulky.

I still remember being heartbroken that Mcgriff had his 30 home run streak snapped in 1995 because there were only 144 games played due to the strike. I still remember Bob Costas mentioning during the 1995 World Series what a shame it was that McGriff’s streak was snapped due to the strike shortened season. Costas found that sort of 30 homer streak amazing at the time. So did I.

Little did we know we were entering the era where 30 home runs would become the norm and no longer the exception.

McGriff may never make the Hall of Fame but at least he can take solace in being tied at 493 home runs with Lou Gehrig on the all time list. The Crime Dog and the Iron Horse together forever. Not bad. And hopefully the Crime Dog can know in his heart he did it naturally. I believe he did.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this

Wide Right-If you truly think that Thorman is a. a better hitter (except for power) or b. a better outfielder than Brandon Jones, you have some serious knowledge issues with baseball. There is absolutely NO comparison between them. Brandon IS an outfielder-Thorman is not. He is also a much better hitter than Thorman. You just can’t judge Brandon on his whole 25 AB’s in the bigs. I would prefer to look at the 100 RBI he racked up in the minors last year-no mean feat.

Thorman has also shown zero inclination to do anything to tone down his swing. Do we need to remind you of how that worked for Andruw Jones, who is ten times the hitter Thorman is?

By ncscoots

February 19, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this

cmac, what is your reasoning on Josh Anderson has “seemingly more upside” than Brandon Jones? I admit to not having seen Anderson play, but there is nothing about his game, according to his stats, that would lead me to believe he’s anywhere close to the Brandon Jones that I HAVE seen play.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this

Wide Right-I saw the Allmans twice WITH Duane and they were unbelievable. However, since that time, there is only one slide guitarist who can come close to Duane’s playing-Warren Haynes. I think he is touring with the Allmans, though I may be wrong (I kno his band Govt. Mule has been touring with Grace Potter). If Warren and Derek Trucks (also touring with HIS band) are playing with them, you’re in for a treat.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

Or maybe Dangerous Dan Toler from Greg’s band is with them. Also good.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

Josh Anderson has more upside than Brandon Jones? Put down the crack pipe man.

Everyone needs to remember this Lillibridge/Escobar nonsense. Those kinds of comments by the statheads seem destined to live in infamy right alongside Rob Neyer’s analysis that D’Angelo Jimenez was better than Alfonso Soriano.

By Bryan

February 19, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

AHHHHHHHHHH Good Morning Denzins!

I am getting things cranked up here in Savannah - what a gorgeous day to be working out of my home office in the lovely historic district of downtown savannah … dog relaxing on my second story porch, lucinda williams just popped up on an old playlist i am kicking (2 cool 2 be forgotten), and the eastward sunlight pushing through the blinds.

It almost makes not being at spring training bearable …

Anyway, I am excited about the first day of full camp reporting - i hope there will be some good pictures and updates of the day.

Dave, question for you about Jair. You seem more certain than most that he will be in the rotation… when did you develop that sentiment? Did you feel like that after the trade? Did chipper’s view on the matter sway your opinion (i know they did mine)?

If Hampton pitches out of camp (and i think, at least, he will do that) who is the 5 starter (i know its early - what’s your gut)

Some thoughts on Hampton:

My biggest fear is that Hampton pitches well enough to make the team - but breaks down after 10 starts …

right now we can say - ohhh we are not counting on Hampton - but if he breaks camp with the team, we will be loosing/trading a player or two because at that point WE WILL BE COUNTING ON HIM. (bold and capitol letter - i must be getting serious … )

The longer spring training continues - the bigger the Hampton questions becomes…

By richbrave

February 19, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

Brandon Jones hit .300 here in Richmond in a pitchers park. He still needs some batting seasoning, but would definitely be ready for the bigs by ‘09. A platoon with Diaz would be good this year if their relative hitting strengths match up well. Otherwise, a start here with a call-up when needed. That way he sees all pitching for a while, and can work on his weaknesses. And you know there are going to be injuries. Its baseball. There will be call-ups.

I’m sure Wren has touched on the Francouer and Teixeira contracts with both players. I’m certain Frenchy will be inked whatever the cost. I think Teixeira is more problematic. If the off-season moves pan out well in ‘08 there is a less likely chance of Tex remaining, but if Braves moves go south, I believe there will be serious discussions with Boras about a long-term contract here. And if something occurs to shorten Chip’s career during ‘08 count on a Tex signing in Atlanta. Just my opinion of course. Like a*******holes. Everybody got one.

By Memphistro

February 19, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

DOB- You may have already discussed this and if you did, then I apologize, but what is going to happen state-wide (Georgia) with the 45 games broadcast this season by PEACHTREE TV?

Will they only be available in the Atlanta area on WTBS? If so, will local stations throughout Georgia or the southeast have an opportunity to similcast those games? I don’t know if you remember the defunct Braves Network from the late 1990s.

I think it is a real shame for the Braves organization that 1/3 of the regular season games will not be available on TV to the Braves regional fanbase when they have for the past 30 years.

If all of this is correct will those games (on PTV) still be blacked out on the MLB Extra Innings package if you purchased it from Directv because we in South Georgia are in the “Braves region”?

If that is the case then even if you wanted to purchase the MLB package, you still could not see the Braves games if you live in Georgia!

I just don’t think this is good for the state-wide fans at all.

By cmac

February 19, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

When it comes to Escober vs Lillibridge, I don’t know — haven’t really seen Lillibridge play. My question is from reading other sports reporters, who all seem to denigrate Escobar. I happen to think he played great last year, and aside from a sophomore slump, can’t see Bobby Cox take him off the field.

As for Josh Anderson, he looked GREAT last year. Brandon Jones just looked like another good rookie — nothing special. (And I’m biased in that I can NOT figure out why the team doesn’t simply tell Matt Diaz he’ll be starting every day. The man was a hit machine last year, no matter which side the pitcher was coming from.)

Oh…and sorry about my math being bad on pitchers. Yeah, yeah — it’s Smoltz and Huddie and Glavine. I’m still interesting in knowing if Chucky is going to make the grade. You’ve got to think Jurrjens is the #4 guy… I’d hate to see them give up on the Chuckster, but my guess is that they’ll trade him to one of the many teams in need of a pitcher who has proved he can get ten wins. Seems like a case of wasted talent — Chuck doesn’t seem to want to spend the time to learn the game, learn the hitters, do the little things that will push him over the top. And those guys haven’t lasted a long time in Braves uniforms.

By KC

February 19, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this

Bryan: “My biggest fear is that Hampton pitches well enough to make the team - but breaks down after 10 starts… right now we can say - ohhh we are not counting on Hampton - but if he breaks camp with the team, we will be loosing/trading a player or two because at that point WE WILL BE COUNTING ON HIM. (bold and capitol letter - i must be getting serious … ) The longer spring training continues - the bigger the Hampton questions becomes…”

Bryan, I respectfully disagree. No matter how healthy Hampton is or how well he pitches… he’ll still be the 4th starter on a team with several other options for the bottom of the rotation.

The ONLY circumstance under which the Braves start counting on him is if he is healthy, and one of the top-3 starters goes down for a long period of time.

Aside from that, no one with be counting on Hampton. Anything we get from him will be considered a plus.

By Jimmy James

February 19, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

Duke next time your at Paul’s New Year Party in Macon, look me up. Just ask for Jimi, keyboard player, and we’ll talk some Braves and trash. Maybe we can get DOB down for the party.

By flange1

February 19, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

DOB, enjoyed the B. Pena article.

It makes me think that maybe the Braves need to keep Pena on the team.

I know I have gone on and on about the bench, but if the Braves were to keep B. Jones and Matt Diaz as the extra outfielder, Javy if he can still hit as the backup catcher, Lillibridge as the 2B, SS and 3B backup, that still leaves 2 slots open.

With Infante hurt, Prado could take the other infield job, and then let Pena be 3rd catcher, back up at 1B and 3B.

By keeping B Pena, you get his switch hitting ability and he can free Javy up to pinch hit when you need right handed power.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

cmac-Yes Diaz WAS a hit machine for two years-AS A PLATOON PLAYER. When given more playing time, he did not perform quite as well. Besides-if it ain’t broke, why fix it? The platoon with Matt was successful. Might as well not tinker with that success. Brandon will almost definitely be better than Willie Harris. He is also an excellent defensive player, though his minor league outfield assists do not point to an extremely strong arm. However, Frenchy and Kotsay have devastating throwing arms.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

cmac-About Chuck-I’ve always wondered whether he was really as lackadaisical as he makes himself seems or if some off his comments about his lack of study were really tongue in cheek.

By Bryan

February 19, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

KC,

my worry concerns injury. If he pitches well, earns a spot, and then injures himself early on (two elbow surgeries without much work yet… there is potential) than at that point, the Braves would have had to have made roster moves give him a spot out of camp. Maybe Jair comes up and thats it … but what if we trade a potential member of the rotation because of a surplus?

When the braves start making roster moves to bring Hampton onto the staff … than it becomes more than “anything they get from him is a plus.”

By Lew

February 19, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

Flange-My thoughts, exactly. Brayan Pena has been scorching the ball at Disney. I have been very impressed with how he’s on everything. Saw him limping a bit around the cage yesterday, but he may have just fouled one off of his foot. Jason In Maine caught one of his HR balls on Saturday.

By CC Rider

February 19, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this

Lew, I just returned from a trip to Savannah and who is waiting for me at my door but Sid Bream sliding into home plate. I politely asked him to take his cleats off and come inside. Seriously, I really appreciate the Wurlitzer award and have already framed it and hung it in a revered place in my den. I am taking it as a sign that this year will be a return to exciting , winning and championship baseball. If so, You will be the official artist of the team and therefore the bloggers must award you with their highest honor—- To BE Determined

By KC

February 19, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

The Braves are overlooked for one reason:

They didn’t add a big name player this winter, but they did *lose a big name player.

Often times, that’s as deep as people go. They simply look at the stats of a Tom Glavine or a Mark Kotsay and assume the Braves won’t be any better.

This is based on the assumption that a team that falls well short of 90 wins has a talent deficiency, and they need a marque talent to come in and improve the locker room gene pool.

Sometimes this is assumption is accurate. Other times it is completely wrong.

Think of a speed boat. If there’s a hole in the boat, do you need to overhaul the motor, or do you simply need to plug the hole?

One glaring hole CAN derail an enormously talented team.

Look at the USA Men’s basketball team that fell short despite an incredible pool of talent. They didn’t need more talent… they just needed someone who could reliably hit an open perimeter shot when opponents clogged the paint.

People who assume the Braves won’t be a significantly improved team have missed the fact that the Braves already had 2 aces (something no other NL team had last year)… as well as a great bullpen, and a potent offense. CLEARLY it was not a question of talent.

The Braves fell short for one simple reason… the rotation, after Smoltz and Hudson, leaked like a siv.

Frank Wren’s job was actually pretty straight forward… plug the hole, plain and simple.

The Braves have done just that, and anyone speaking as though the Braves are a long-shot prove their ignorance in the process.

By BT

February 19, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this

Lew,

Meeting Chipper, Bobby Cox, etc. Are you in Heaven? What a deal.

By DAP

February 19, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

cmac IF he can hit, he’s the better hitter.

what a strange statement…. i hope youre not old enough to vote this november.

NY Jay hey man, hipe youre still on. science rules! anyways, you asked who will have the most impact, glavine, santana or meyers. obviously that remains to be seen, but i think youve got to factor in the team’s needs to evaluate the moves.

i think meyers will have a big impact on the phils rotation, but i dont think its enough. he is a good #1 or #2 pitcher, and i really think it will make their team alot better. they just neeed pitching…any pitching, so meyers could make a huge impact.

the mets needed an ace, definetly. they needed some one that would do it it, pitch alot of innings, strike alot of guys out ect. and they got him. he will make a big impact on the team because before him, they didnt have a #1.

the braves didnt need an ace. they have two. both who pitch alot of innings and strike guys out (smoltz more than huddy)what killed their pitching was the fact the back of the rotation was shaky and taxed the bullpen. well they got a #3 who they can count on to pitch 200 innings and give them quality starts. with the braves offense, they will win most game their pitcher gives them a quality start, and the bullpen will pitch much better whn they arent over worked. it also takes pressure off the guys in front of glavine and behind glavine in the rotation. having glavine helps out the braves team in a number of ways right away. so glavine could have a huge impact.

so what team will fare better? a team who has two aces and added a very good third starter, or a team who has no aces and added one?

By CAR3BOOGIE

February 19, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

DOB the Article CMAC was refering to was a SI NL EAST preview and it had no byline.

They were harsh on Escobar.

By KC

February 19, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

Bryan: “the Braves would have had to have made roster moves give him a spot out of camp. Maybe Jair comes up and thats it … but what if we trade a potential member of the rotation because of a surplus?”

I understand your concern, but it’s really a non-issue because all the backup options are young and have plenty of options left.

Let’s say Chuck James wins the 5th spot in the rotation. You have Jurrjens, Reyes, and Bennett… all of whom can be sent back or forth between Atlanta and Richmond several times this year if need be.

If Jurrjens wins the 5th spot, James will probably start the year as the Braves’ long reliever… but of course, he’ll still be available if needed to start.

It the Braves had 3 or 4 veterans competing for the final 2 slots, that would be another thing all together, and that might necessitate a trade. But that’s not the case here.

The Braves do not need to part with anyone to make room for Hampton, and are not likely to give up talented young arms.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

Peña or Javy???

I dont have good memories of javys defense, s far as i can recall he was not able to throw anybody out at 2b. Did he improved that while in the AL?

What if the game is on the line, lets say 8th and 9th innings or extra innings. What about last week of the season and playoff time. Would yo like a veteran like javy? or Peña?

What about backing up 162 games, isnt it better to have young blood?

I think that if peñas defense is better than javys i would add him as back up. I like javy but i think his best years are over, but to me, braves are gonna go with javy.

By KC

February 19, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

Lew: “When given more playing time, [Diaz} did not perform quite as well.”

“Did not perform quite as well?” What… he hit .305 instead of .340?

Do you have any stats to support this statement Lew? Because I’m afraid I don’t remember it the same way.

By Steve McP

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

Just going back to number crunching by Braveheart looking at Soriano’s poor spell.

It should be emphasised that most of his poor performances came in games with nothing on the line, he clearly needs the pressure to be at the top of his game and this bodes well for him as a closer in 08.

Certainly prefer him to Wagner, and, if Gonzo can come back and be anywhere near where he was before surgery then the second half of the season looks good for the pen (not that it isn’t already with most of the good players from last year’s strong pen still on the team and the likelihood of adding a long reliever spot starter from one of the surfeit of starters that we have.

Our starting pitching depth looks like it will be able to cover for the inevitable injuries,so the Braves will surely be in the mix in September. Pitching is the most important thing in deciding a season as most teams have players who will hit the ball consistently and the Braves look to be very well placed in comparison with others in the East.

By Bryan

February 19, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

KC,

good points. I am glad so many of our options have … well, options.

I still believe that the longer hampton stays - the more the braves have to come of of their position that anything we get is a plus - because how the braves act before camp breaks, before the trade deadline, will be based with him in out plans. 3/4 spot in an Atlanta rotation is not just anything we get is a plus spot.

By Bryan

February 19, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

GOOD point Steve Mcp,

Braveheart, wanna do the math on runs given up in late and close situation?

Anyone want to go over my resume … my head hurts. Daybed?

By McFann

February 19, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

I wish McCann had had that bone spur removed. It still being there gives me the heebie-jeebies.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

“It feels just as good as it ever has,” James said. “Now it’s just the wonder of how much it’s going to hold.”

That declaration sounds a little suspicious.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

I don’t think the backup catcher should be a defensive guy at all. They need someone like Javy to have something left.

Brian McCann brings so much more to this offense than almost anyone because of what he contributes offensively compared to the average catcher.

People focus so much on how harmful it is when Chipper misses 30 games but it is just as harmful when McCann is not in there for 30 games.

The Braves are 16 games over .500 the last 2 seasons when McCann starts.

The Braves are 14 games under .500 when McCann does not start the last 2 seasons.

So, please no “defensive” backup catchers. Hopefully Javy has enough pop left to hit 8-12 homers off the bench in the 225 at bats he can get this season.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

February 19, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

Robert and Capt. Caveman, here is my problem with McNamee injecting Clemens with roids instead of B12 and lidocaine. For one, why doesn’t Rog just say that. The man is seen as hero and it is obvious so many people are willing to give him a doubt while persecuting Bonds. As slimy as McNamee is most people would have no issue with Clemens claiming he thought he was receiving B12 shots and lidocaine. Of course, I wonder why a trainer would be giving shots of B12 and lidocaine to anybody when those are meds that are supposed to be administered by a physician?

Second of all, am I really suppose to believe that a control freak like Clemens is allowing anybody to inject him with anything and he isn’t making completely sure what exactly is being injected into his body? C’mon. If you don’t believe Barry Bonds when he says he thought the “cream” was flaxseed oil then you surely can’t believe that.

Also, why would McNamee do that? Andy Petitte said McNamee strongly advised him not to take HGH as McNamee himself had said. So, why would he strongly advise against it for Petitte but recommend it for Clemens? Unless, you think Petitte is lying and anybody with common sense who saw his press conference yesterday could tell Petitte was being totally honest. And, why would he lie against Roger “Pookie” Clemens?

I am dissapointed more people are not shooting this kind of crap down regarding Clemens like they would agaisnt Bonds. See, it is hard to buy the argument that Bonds isn’t getting personally attacked when you see the same lame excuses he has given provided for Clemens and people believing that those lame excuses could be plausible for the “Rocket”.

By ncscoots

February 19, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

As for Josh Anderson, he looked GREAT last year. Brandon Jones just looked like another good rookie — nothing special.

So, you’re basing your analysis on the 67 ML AB for Anderson and the 20 ML AB for Jones? Got it. Good thinking.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

KC-I’m blogging on a much slower computer with less memory than at home so not sure if I can find the complete game log to support my assertion. However, I still contend that he has done quite well in a platoon role, we have a good platoon partner, so why change?

Diaz will not be a long term fix for left-Brandon may well be. I don’t see Diaz getting to play everyday-at least not in Atlanta and not this year. No matter what his stats were.

Check what he did in Serptember,though. I’m sure he had a prolonged dry spell while playing pretty regularly.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

KC-You might check what he did in September as well as Serptember.

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 19, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

It sounds like if Hampton has a spot in the rotation, that doesn’t mean that we have to trade anyone. As KC has pointed out, all of the candidates for the 5th spot still have options (including Chuck James, right?), so they can go to the minors if needed. The Braves wouldn’t have to trade anyone to make room for Hampton, which is probably another reason why the Braves didn’t acquire any other veteran pitchers who no longer have options.

If they had signed an out-of-options pitcher, he’d have to stay on the 25-man roster (or be traded), right? So, if they go with Hampton, then the newly acquired guy would be blocking Jair, Bennett, JoJo and James. While all of those guys have options, the new guy might lay a big one and just be terrible, and the Braves have been there with Redman.

I see what you’re saying Bryan — Hampton might go 10 starts and then break down. Certainly seems like a possibility, but it also seems like the Braves have thought through the possible scenarios quite well and have prepared themselves for all of them.

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Gonna crank out a new blog, but just wanted to let you know Teixeira is here. Talked to him about everything. Nothing new on contract, and he’s not going to discuss it. Said it’s possible something could get done before season’s over, but just said that as if to say, it’s not entirely impossible.

Said he has more important things to worry about now — the season and trying to help the Braves win the division. He said he can put up his best season ever in this lineup.

OK, gotta write this stuff and more in new blog

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

February 19, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

Exactly, ncscoots. While I pray Josh Andersn will become a good major leaguer his minor league stats as a whole are mediocre at best while B. Jones suggest his a superstar in the making. I think to base B. Jones future on 20 Abs is a bit asinine.

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

Oh, and by the way, had a team official come up to me and point out that SI.com scouting report. He said the baseball ops and front-office people were absolutely laughing in disbelief over the escobar part, and also them pointing to shortstop and bullpen as team weaknesses.

By DAP

February 19, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

Lew Diaz had 70 ABs in august, the most in any month last season, and he hit .386 with a 1.213 OPS. also, from what i could tell, he saw pretty consistent action all year, only 17 ABs separating his slowest month from his busiest month.

i tend to agree with you that we should continue to platoon him, cause hes so good in that role…but i wouldnt be against letting him play full time, and we just dont know if he would slump playing full time.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

KC0-Not as hard as I thought. He played almost every game in September and batted .283. Now while not terrible, it was certainly NOT .349. He lost 11 points off of his season average in Sept.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

Braveheart-From what I’ve seen at Spring Training, Javy has lots of pop left in his bat. His scorching it over the left field wall quite a bit.

By McFann

February 19, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

Well said, Braveheart! Well said.

I think it is a little more important that the backup guy cann hit because of that hole that is left in the lineup when McCann is not there. As for defense, well, it would be nice if the BUC had average defense. But then again, in just one game, how many guys will try to steal against the Braves? If they’re playing the Mets or Phillies that could be a problem, but in the long run, I think a semi-solid hitter would be better.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

DAOP-He had 67 AB in Septemebr and performed like I’ve already pointed out. Dude, he’s not a .340 hitter playing full time. Damn near NO ONE is.

Let us also take into account that while Matt has improved his defense, he is no Brandon Jones, who is an EXCELLENT defensive outfielder.

By BT

February 19, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

Have you seen Javy in the cage yet? Does he have any pop in the bat left?

By flange1

February 19, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

Lew,

I agree that Diaz is not a full time player. He has excelled as a PH and as a platoon player. MAYBE he can be a full time player, but I think both B. Jones and Anderson have more potential.

Don’t get me wrong, I would keep Diaz if I can afford him to PH and backup at 1B and LF.

I think that B Jones and Anderson will be competing for the final outfield spot. Maybe Thorman as well, but I just don’t see Thorman making this team.

I would love to have Anderson as a pinch runner and OF backup. But I would love for B Jones to have a massive spring and win the full time job too…..

By KC

February 19, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

Lew: Everyone has an off month. But .283 isn’t bad for an “off” month.

The only way we’ll ever know what Diaz can produce as an every day player, is if he gets that change. But I agree with you that probably will not get that opportunity here this year with B.Jones on the scene.

By FJR

February 19, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Considered picking up the new album by British Sea Power. You heard it?

If you had to handicap the 5th spot right now, the more I read, the more I get the feeling that 3J is pulling a lot of the late smart money while Chuckie is the conventional wisdom. Your thoughts?

It just seems like we are at a point with CJ where nothing quite fits. I don’t really see him as a long reliever, I think his delivery is too funky to be consisntent with out of a long relief situation (where you can go two weeks without seeing action at times), I don’t think he’s our best option out of the 5, trading him is probably selling low because of the injury concerns.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this

Braveheart & McFann i agree that a good defensive C that has no offense at all is not a good choice. But dont underestimate the importance of good defense behind the plate. We all have seen tons of close games lost on a PB a WP that could have been stopped if good D was behind the plate.

Tie game 9th inning, BB, SB, RBI single, tie game and then extra innings loss.

By DAP

February 19, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

Lew yes, he slumped in september to hit .284, but that wasnt his busiest month. his busiest month was august where batted .386 and had a 1.213 OPS.

to me this disproves your theory that he would struggle with more playing time. it was arguably his best month. his worst month was actually april, where he got the least amount of playing time. he hit .259 with a .659 OPS. ouch. one could argue that with more playing time he improves.

all im saying is that his mini slump in september had nothing to do with him playing more.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

BT-Check my 10:46 post. Both Javy and Brayan Pena, as well as Kotsay are hitting nothing but scorchers. It’s early, of course, but they are right on every pitch. Like DOB says,Kotsay looks like he is in NO pain. That is great news.

Got a chance to talk to KotsayandWil Ohman. Both are really nice guys and I would bet both are great clubhouse influences. Kotsay will definitely become a fan favorite. I hope Ohman does, as well. He is an exceptionally nice person and pretty humerous. You should have seen him and Jeff Bennett doing their running in soccer unis.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

February 19, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

Flange1, I hope you are kidding. Josh Anderson isnt’ half the player Diaz is. While I have some reservations about Diaz being a full time player, no way in hell does Josh Anderson push him to the bench. What gives anybody an indication Anderson can do that? Because he had a good Septemeber when there was no pressure on him to succeed? He is a good player who I think could start if necessary but he is also a guy whose minor league numbers were average at best.

As far as Thorman goes, he is on the roster when the team breaks camp unless he is traded. He is out of options and he just has too much potential to let “walk away”. As frustrated as I was with him at times last year and wanted him gone, I know better. I think Thorman has to be given a chance this spring to see if he can turn it around if for no other reason than to see if he can be Tex’s replacement if Tex decides to head for greener pastures.

By john77

February 19, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

I know this is way off but I would like to know about Peachtree too.I have emailed Atlanta,Peachtree,Directv,and MLB TV know one wrote me back.If you (DOB) can fine out a lot of fans would like to know.I live in N.C and I get SS and FSS.The 45 games Peachtree has are some games fans want to see heck the home opener is on Peachtree.If you can find out I would love to know.Thank you for the great news and keep up the good work this is the best site to find out about the BRAVES.

By ncscoots

February 19, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

KC, I like Matt Diaz, too. Heck, you can’t NOT like the guy. But, can you honestly watch him at the plate and not think “550 AB = exposed”? I cannot, for the life of me, believe he can hit in a fulltime role as he has in limited AB. Call me blinded by his swing mechanics, if you like, but there you go.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

KC-No, like I said, .283 is not bad. However, everyone is wanting Matt to play full time based on his .349 BA NOT .283 (which I bet we will see .283 from Brandon, too). How many .340 hitters are there in all of baseball, when they play full time? If Diaz were truly considered by the experts to BE a .340 hitter, I guarantee he would be playing every day. He’s not, so he isn’t and won’t.

As for the off month-According to DAP (and Ihave no reason to doubt his research), Matt had 137 plate appearances in August and September yet his average for the year slipped 11 points. THAT right there should answer your question on regular playing time. I think it indicates that He does not have the stamina, at the very least to play every day and maintain the high average.

By beekay

February 19, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

DOB Have you asked Bobby or any Vets if they are upset that they were chosen to fly out to DC for the one game series to open the season. I live in DC and I know it’s a new stadium and opening night, national TV but I wonder if the extra travel and having to fly back after the game and play the next day in ATL is something they aren’t too happy about. One more thing can you break down the average salaries that the minor leaguers get from rookie ball through triple A. I’m guessing 20k for A ball up to 100k for AAA is that about right?

By nOLIE

February 19, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

Anderson has more potential than Diaz??? Hmmm.

By DAP

February 19, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

Lew He had 67 AB in Septemebr and performed like I’ve already pointed out.

so what? he had 70 ABs in august and performed like I pointed out. youre theory is debunked. we just dont know until he actually plays full time.

but like i said, i would leave him in the role he’s in.

By David-ATL14

February 19, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Wholeheartedly agree with Lew and flange on the Pena situation.

He could prove to be far more valuable tha a stiff like Thorman.

I like the idea of carrying both Lopez and Pena instead of Thorman.

Thorman will never be an everday player at this level for the Braves or any other MLB team.

Pena could back up Tex at 1b for the 5-7 games that he doesn’t play along with providing BC the ability to pinch hit with Lopez or pinch run for McCann late in the game.

Also provides a nice swith hitting option off the bench and someone that could play 3b or LF in an emergency situation along with being a legitimate catcher.

None of this Matt Diaz or Pete Orr(years past) nonsense when talking about emergency catchers.

5 man bench to start the season: Lopez,Pena,Lillibridge,Prado and the LF platoon. When Infante returns then Prado can be returned to Richmond.

By flange1

February 19, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

Robert (CIB),

Sorry I wasn’t better at explaining myself! I think Diaz is great as a platoon player and a PH. He is a great non-traditional hitter

I love the speed that Anderson brings to the table.

I love the power that Thorman brings to the table.

I think Brandon Jones has more tools and a higher upside that all of the rest.

I think Diaz is on the team. I think the other 3 are competing for 1 maybe 2 spots.

All 3 of the other have talents that could help the team as a bench player/spot starter/platoon partner.

I think Anderson is the best 4th OF of the group. B Jones is the best to be a full time starter, and Thorman is trade bait.

To me the competition is who plays better this spring, Anderson or B Jones and to a lesser extent G Blanco and S Thorman.

Is that better?

By KC

February 19, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

nscoots and Lew: Again, we’re all talking out of our rears if we pretend to know what he would do if given a chance to play every day (not they you’re trying to declare that).

The only way we’ll know, is if he gets that chance.

However, I am convinced that Diaz is a .300 hitter. I don’t think anyone would expect him to hit .340 if he played every day. But he’s hit pretty damned closed to that over his last 500-600 at bats (over the past 2 seasons). He has no major weaknesses at the plate, he is able to make contact with almost anything, and he hits righties and lefties almost equally as well.

All things considered, IF Diaz gets 500 ABs this year… I don’t think that’s likely, but if he does… I’ll be willing to wager that he hits at least around .300 or better.

Seriously, I’ll wager that. Just let me know your terms.

By Shaun

February 19, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

Lew, many do not consider Diaz a full-time player because of his power; it has nothing to do with batting average or on-base ability. Since he’s been given a chance to play regularly or semi-regularly in the majors, he’s been one of the best hitters (in terms of getting hits) in the majors.

ZiPS projects Diaz to have the highest average in the majors in 2008. Over at fangraphs.com, you can see that a couple of projection systems have him at .299 and .314.

I think Diaz is a pretty good bet to hit .300 or close to it.

But batting average is the least of my concerns with Diaz vs. Brandon Jones. My concern is on-base ability and power. Batting average is only part of the larger, more important equation.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

SteveMcP: I don’t know if this will come out or not but here are the stats against Soriano and other top closers in late and close situations in terms of AVG, OBP, SLG, and OPS:

avg obp slg ops

papelbon 0.142 0.201 0.243 0.445 soriano 0.163 0.207 0.294 0.501 wagner 0.183 0.251 0.299 0.550 isringhausen 0.186 0.298 0.283 0.581 krod 0.193 0.296 0.293 0.589 nathan 0.219 0.281 0.331 0.613 street 0.214 0.264 0.376 0.640 hoffman 0.233 0.279 0.370 0.649 moylan 0.213 0.311 0.361 0.671 lidge 0.214 0.296 0.434 0.730 rivera 0.267 0.330 0.416 0.746

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

David ATL

Thorman will never be an everday player at this level for the Braves or any other MLB team.

I agree.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

DAP-Yes, he did perform well in August-However….. He had almost as many AB in September and after playing almost full time for two months (1/3 of a season) he tailed off considerably. I think this speaks to his stamina (or lack thereof) and it’s affection his long term batting prognosis.

Willie Harris had a great month and a half, too, but look what happened to him when he had more playing time than he was used to. Now I believe Matt to be a MUCH MUCH better hitter than Willie, but still believe him to be only a platoon player. I reiterate-If he were a .340 hitter and was considered to be such by the Baseball powers that be, he would have been playing full time and we would not be having this discussion at all.

Besides-Have you seen Brandon play? I have and he is a much better outfielder than Diaz and a better hitter than he showed in very limited AB’s in Hotlanta last fall. He is a keeper.

By KC

February 19, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

David-ATL14: “Thorman will never be an everday player at this level for the Braves or any other MLB team.”

David, you don’t know that. Neither do the Braves, which is why they’ve been reluctant to cut him loose. He couldn’t cut it in the 1/2 season he was given to prove his stuff. He’s got a lot of talent. Will he make it? Who knows… but there’s a reason the Braves have been holding onto him even though they clearly don’t need another first baseman.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

I don’t even know we are all debating this. Isn’t it clear by now that Jones is not competing with anyone for the fourth outfield spot and that the Diaz/Jones platoon has already been decided? Sure, they might say differently just to play down the pressure on Brandon but that is probably what the reality of the situation is right now.

The competition is probably more between Josh Anderson and Scott Thorman than it is Josh Anderson and Brandon Jones.

By DAP

February 19, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

Lew diaz may have lost 11 points on his average in the last month, but chipper lost 5 points in the last week. he definitely isnt a full-time player.

debunked, lew. we just dont know until it happens.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

February 19, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

Flange1, I got ya! I agree on B. Jones. I think this kid is a superstar within three years. In fact, I think this team is full of potential young superstars. I predict this will be Francoeur’s break out year. I’m talking possible MVP. I think K. Johnson has a .285/25HR/75RBI/.375 OBP in his future. Despite that garbage SI placed on its website Escobar is a .300/.380 OBP hitter. And, Jordan Schafer is on the way and if Scott Thorman holds to form this could be his breakthrough season as well.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

KC-I’m not a betting man. However, I think Matt may hit .300, but I don’t think he is viewed as an everyday player. Brandon Jones WILL be though.

One thing I almost WOULD bet on is that Matt does not fit the Braves longer term plans. Brandon does.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

well that didn’t work. I’ll try it again.

Here are the avg, obp, slg, ops numbers against Soriano and other top closers in late and close:

papelbon 0.142 0.201 0.243 0.445

soriano 0.163 0.207 0.294 0.501

wagner 0.183 0.251 0.299 0.550

isringhausen 0.186 0.298 0.283 0.581

krod 0.193 0.296 0.293 0.589

nathan 0.219 0.281 0.331 0.613

street 0.214 0.264 0.376 0.640

hoffman 0.233 0.279 0.370 0.649

moylan 0.213 0.311 0.361 0.671

lidge 0.214 0.296 0.434 0.730

rivera 0.267 0.330 0.416 0.746

By Lew

February 19, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

KC-Love your optimism. It may actually exceed mine, but Dude,you thought Willie Harris was more than a .238 hitter, He wasn’t. Sometimes your judgment is way skewed towards the optimistically improbable.

By ncscoots

February 19, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

KC, no offense, but I offered to take you up on the LAST Diaz “wager” you proffered, LOL.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

DAP-You’re starting to reach a bit too far for those straws that are just out of your grasp, Dude with the Chipper comparison. Way too far. Chipper played with a tweaked oblique and ended up as the number two hitter in all the NL. Diaz is and was a role player. Nothing more and nothing less. You’re also talking a week compared to a month-1/24th of Chipper’s season and 1/6 of Matt’s. And a week where, if I remember correctly, Chipper actually took several days off after we were out of the race.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

KC-Love your optimism. It may actually exceed mine, but Dude,you thought Willie Harris was more than a .238 hitter, He wasn’t. Sometimes your judgment is way skewed towards the optimistically improbable. Lew

Ladies and gentlemen, the pot just called the kettle black.

By Shaun

February 19, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

It’s pretty crazy to assume that if a hitter hit’s significantly lower that his overall numbers for a period of a month, that the month’s worth of games tells us more than the season’s worth. Has there ever been a hitter in baseball history who is perfectly consistent from month-to-month? If so, can’t be many. A .300 hitter isn’t going to hit .300 every month. That’s just a ridiculous thing to assume that he will.

By Jbellfp

February 19, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

That’s alright, let them talk. I can see the headline now. “Mets and Phils Both Eat Their Words; Braves Win the Division!”

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

Braveheart you are assuming that Diaz will be backup at 1B? or what is the scenario if anderson beats thorman?

Shaun in understand Jones is a great player, but if he was not around, i dont understand what would be the problem with Diaz not having much power? We have lots of power here, very potent infield. Getting on base is as important as having high SLG. And having matt hitting ahead of pitchers changes his singles into doubles lots of times (pitcher bunts).

Maybe i just missed your point.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

DAP-Just as I thought. It was Chipper’s last 9 games where he lost those 5 points and he hit safely in seven of those 9 games.

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

Just found this out:

Bobby Cox’s mother-in-law, Dell Boswell, died last night. She had been really sick for about a year, and in recent months it had been a really tough situation.

He’s not here today and won’t be here tomorrow for the first workout.

The funeral is tomorrow in Adairsville, and Cox hopes to be back on Thursday. Condolences to Pam and Bobby.

By DAP

February 19, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

Lew that same week where chipper lost 5 points on his season average, diaz went on a tear hitting .421 and raised his season average 5 points. so much for tailing off.

again, i dont disagree with you that diaz should be platooning, cause i like him where he is. i dont disagree that he dont fit into longterm plans like b jones probably does, but theres no way you can know he wouldnt hit as well playing everyday, and there arent any stats that prove it, period.

every players goes through stretches where they dont hit as well. thats why they average it. diaz’s stretches dont correspond to him playing more. they just dont.

By Shaun

February 19, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

Robert (Chipper Is The Best), I don’t think Escobar will be far off from what SI says.

I think .280-.300 AVG and .350-.390 OBP are pretty realistic.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

DAP-Also Chipper actually raised his average 10 points in September. S T R E T C H for those elusive straws.

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOG IS UP

By Shaun

February 19, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Lew, let’s see, if I’m running a team trying to determine how much playing time to give a player, do I look at a month’s worth of games or a whole season or even two whole seasons? The answer is a no-brainer. Matt Diaz has hit over .320 in two seasons with the Braves. I’d trust that over looking at what he did last August. Who in there right mind wouldn’t?

By Shaun

February 19, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Overlord, yes, I agree. Diaz is just fine with me as an everyday player. My point was simply that if people are out there that don’t view Diaz as an everyday player, it’s because he’s not a flashy homerun hitter. I would also add because Diaz is not speedy and doesn’t look athletic, and I would guess there are a lot of people around baseball that still ridiculously think you must be super speedy and look athletic to play outfield in the majors.

By DAP

February 19, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

Lew You’re starting to reach a bit too far for those straws that are just out of your grasp, Dude with the Chipper comparison. Way too far.

not really lew. im just pointing out that batting average can change in a hurry for any player…thats why they average it out over a year. and youre talking about a guy that went from hitting .349 to hitting .338. its still a great average, and as i just pointed out, he actually raised it the last week while chipper’s fell, so it obviously wasnt fatigue, or overexposure.

if I remember correctly, Chipper actually took several days off after we were out of the race.

thats not how it happened. from sept 23 on (which is where i got diaz numbers for the last week vs chipper’s) they both played all the games. chipper had 23 ABs and diaz had 19 ABs. bobby kept chipper in trying to win the batting title.

chipper hit .260 in those games… he lost 5 points, where diaz hit .421 in the same time frame, raising his average 5 points.

By DAP

February 19, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

Lew Just as I thought. It was Chipper’s last 9 games where he lost those 5 points and he hit safely in seven of those 9 games.

whats your point here? he hit safely and still lost points.

i have no need to grasp for straws, lew. youve been proven wrong.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

DAP-Dude,comparing Matt Diaz to Chipper and you call me wrong? Sorry Dude. Chipper gained ten points on his average the month of September-DOWN THE STRETCH when the cards were on the table- Diaz lost eleven points under the same conditions. What does THAT say about both players? No way you can be right making your point. No flipping way. At best you .MIGHT claim apples and ornages. You can’t take as small a sample as a week and compare it to a month. Just can’t.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

DAP-Dude,you can’t win an argument whose premise is flawed to begin with. If you want to compare Chipper to Diaz, do it for the entire month of September. THEN you may have an amenable comparison.

By DAP

February 19, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

Lew why should we take a month and not a week? they are both small in the scheme of a long season.

i used chipper as an example because we all know he is the best hitter on the team, and one of the best hitters in the majors. he slumped and his average went down (though he still had a great average). if the best hitter’s average goes up or down that much in such a short time period, that shows it can and does happen to everyone, and you shouldnt use a month to come to a conclusion about a player.

it isnt about chipper, it isnt even about weather diaz can play everyday. the FACT is, you dont KNOW what diaz would do with 500 ABs in a season, and there are no stats that can possibly tell you he wouldnt hit .330!!!

By crazelatinoNYC

February 19, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

Why do the Braves keep fizzling out towards the end of the year? No Renteria (dumb move) or Andruw Jones (has been) How exactly are the Braves “Better” than last year? I hope they don’t think Tom Glavin is the answer (dont’ believe me, check out what he didn’t do last year, that is, pitch well when it counted most) Therefore, it is a 2 team race, Mets and Phillies.

By BraveFanInMI

February 19, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

DOB Great column on Pena…saw him play for Las Aguilas in Serie del Caribe and he was awesome. Every time you turned around there was a runner on third and he was stopping balls in the dirt. TJ Pena played on same team too and got to everything effortlessly. Don’t know why we traded him…but that is a different story.

Thanks for the Allman Brothers education and your blogs…enjoy and appreciate them.