Braves

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Good to hear that Tex is focused on winning the division. I agree, worry about signing a long term deal afte the season.

By NorthBeach Scott

February 19, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

DOB Appreciate your timely perspective as always. Curious about Brandon Jones and how he looks this spring and if Thorman has recovered from the minor injury he sustained in Winter ball.

I will be at ST to see Braves games 3/5-10 and cannot wait.

By Bryan

February 19, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

Hey, if tex will talk baseball all day long - get him on this blog!

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

Just found this out, folks:

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 Longwood's Finest

February 19, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

Good news on Tex… I’m guessing he’ll be in full swing from his minor surgery.

Sure would be great to lock him up this spring.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

Those have to be the most upbeat song lyrics DOB has ever posted.

By Braves-Report.com

February 19, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

We need to re-sign Teixeira.

By Braves-Report.com

February 19, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

We need to re-sign Teixeira.

By jon

February 19, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

DOB, enjoy your blogs! Two questions and this is more of a I want your opinion kind of question. Are the Braves the best well-rounded team in the East going into Spring Training??? Do you think we will resign Tex?? (Whether its during the season, which I’m sure it won’t or after) What is your gut feeling?!?! Keep up the good work, you brighten my day up with Braves Blogs and Song Lyrics..especially when I’m stuck in this dark, old, closed up office for my local radio station!

By Malkatraz

February 19, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Dave,

Wasn’t there a rumor that JS took the Brave’s President job to free him up for Selig’s job? If so, I wonder what he thinks of Selig signing the extension.

I feel like Tex’s fate with the team won’t be decided until the offseason and that usually doesn’t bode well for the Braves…

By i cant take it anymore

February 19, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

first? i should be looking at notes for my midterm at one. i’m gonna flunk grad school because of the braves blog

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

NorthBeach, Brandon looks great, saw hit hitting at pitching camp. Talked to him this morning and he’s excited and ready for his opportunity.

Was going to do a Diaz/Jones story for tomorrow, then Tex walked in and had to change plans.

by the way, TOMORROW IS FIRST FULL-SQUAD WORKOUT.

By Bob

February 19, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

DOB - please explain the use of the term “Dark Star”. Where does this come from?

By JordanPTC

February 19, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

You’re right, DOB. We should be talking contract terms with Tex. And the other players should (and undoubtedly will) be worried about it. We gave up some very talented players for Tex, and we need to get him on board long term. If that isn’t going to happen, we need to know sooner than later so we can try and get something via trade before its too late.

By beekay

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

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 Duke

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

To lose Tex after this year would be a bit of a setback, but not one we couldnt overcome. Hopefully Thorman will keep progressing and he can play the role if Tex leaves. Maybe just until young Heyward learns the position and develops at a good pace.

By TennesseePaul

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

DOB: Thanks for the updates. Keep up the good work.

I appreciate Teixeira. He has made no secret of his ability to “work it” in a contract year. I fully expect him to dominate this year. I expected as much from AJ, but he fell flat on his face. I don’t think Teixeira will. I see that guy posting monster numbers and taking a massive payout to play in New York or San Fran. But his good season should boost Chipper up tremendously. Hope Hoss can stay healthy. I’d like to see him get the MVP, Gold Glove, Silver Slugger and other David Wright Man of the Year awards.

GO BRAVES!!

By ssiscribe

February 19, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

Thoughts and prayers to Pam and Bobby indeed …

From the last blog: I really was intrigued when Anderson was acquired. I know the sample size is small (21 big-league games), but the dude did hit .358. At Triple-A, Anderson hit .273 and was 40-for-48 in steals, and by all accounts plays good defense. I’m interested to see him play this spring.

Bench right now, in my mind: Infante (although he may start the season on the DL), backup catcher (Lopez is in great shape and if he has a decent spring, I think Javy will get the spot), Diaz’s platoon partner in LF (Brandon Jones or Anderson).

That’s three of five spots. Prado or Lillibridge gets the fourth spot (both make it if Infante starts the year on the DL), and Thorman gets the last spot if he’s not dealt in camp.

Gotta run and make some deadlines and meetings today. More later.

The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Anders

February 19, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

I went on the Scott Boras website and there’s a running clock that says “Just 256 days 11 hours and 30 minutes until free agency” with Tex’s picture next to it.

Just kidding, but there might as well be.

DOB Let Tex know they’ll be a nice duplex on the East Side of Manhattan opening up when a certain Yankee slugger vacates it after this season and heads back to the left coast leaving a $22 mil per year opening. Maybe Tex would be interested in adding it to his stable of property holdings? Wonder what kind of season he’d have in the Yankee lineup or Boston’s seeing that he appears to be thinking about such things?

By McFann

February 19, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

Boy am I ticked! I spent a long time typing a long post in response to Overlord’s 11:13 post. I come back about twenty minutes later and find out that it couldn’t go through, and now the dumb thing’s gone forever. I spent the whole thing equating losing a game on a wild pitch to my most favorite game of the 2007 season (which was almost lost because of a WP). Stupid computer!

Thoughts and prayers go out to Bobby and Pam Cox. My father lost his mother last summer.

By ssiscribe

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

As an added point to my post above: I know Javy wants to play everyday, from reading a couple of quotes from him in previous stories stating that he’d like to have a shot to play on a regular basis.

So, if he has a good camp and Pena has a good camp. maybe Lopez gets dealt to somebody who can give him a chance to play more than once every fifth day. Doing so would give Pena a chance to be the backup catcher, and he also can play several other positions.

Just a passing thought as my afternoon begins.

—30—

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

Beekay, while no one likes the extra travel to D.C., most of the players I’ve talked to are pretty jacked about playing the first game on ESPN, sort of like being on Monday Night Football in that most of their peers will probably tune in along with a lot of baseball fans. It’s the only game played that day.

By supa

February 19, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

My sympathies to Bobby and his family.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

Anders

There is a better chance of Tex playing for the Braves than the Red Sox next year. And since I think there is no way in hell Tex resigns with the Braves, you should be able to understand what chances I think Tex has of playing in beantown. They will exercise Manny’s option. If if they didn’t, they have Youkilis. There just isn’t a need for Tex in the Red Sox lineup.

The Yankees will need Teixiera more than any other team in baseball next season. Even more than the Braves. I expect a 7 year 161 million dollar proposal to come from the Yanks for Tex’ services.

The Braves will take the two draft picks and go about there business. They will probably fill the 2009 1st base/Cleanup hitter need through trade. As usual…..

By Anders

February 19, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

Beekay

Is there anywhere I can buy National’s single game tickets yet? Their website says March 4th. I’m coming in for the Mets series 4/22 and 4/23 and want to get some seats asap.

Thanks for any help.

By Dap

February 19, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

I am growing more and more pessimistic on signing Tex to a long term deal. He is giving text book answers just like Boras wants him to. I hope though, that he stays.

If he leaves, I say put Kelly on first and Lillibridge at 2nd.

We will be fine.

By Matt

February 19, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

DOB have you heard the new Ben Harper or Jack Johnson?

By john77

February 19, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

DOB Sorry this way off but do you know if Peachtree TV will be showing the games outside of Atlanta?I have emailed every body that I can and know one can tell me or they just don’t no.A lot of fans will be mad as heck if they don’t show the games.I live in N.C and people tell me even if I pay for MLB TV or Directv that it will be blacked out.If you can will you find out for us? Thank you for the great news and blogs this is the best site to fine Braves news.Maybe you can say something to JS about it and take a poll on how many people it’s going to make mad and show him.It’s a lot of games that fans want to see HECK it’s the home opener.Thanks again your the best sports writer on the web!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Bravesbaseball101

February 19, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Hello DOB, I’ve been reading your stuff for a while now, and I like the work you do. However, with the ability to get into the club and talk to the players and such, is it possible that you can let them know how important it is to sign guys like Tex and Frenchy long term? If they let Tex walk away, this team is taking a big step in the wrong direction. Tex is becoming a fan favorite, offers great offense and defense, and is still young. Whatever happened to the “many millions” more will be spent by Liberty Media? I consider many millions to be a bit more than 3 million here and 500 k there.

Braves fan in Rochester, NY.

By Eric from MO

February 19, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Ssiscribe there is no way Javy can play everyday. Sure every player would like to play every day, but Javy just cant. Javy is too old and his body wont hold up and I think Javy probably knows this.

By The Murf

February 19, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

So Dave, if you were a Vegas oddsmaker, what sort of line would you give that the Braves will pay high dollar to keep Tex?

By FJR

February 19, 2008 1:06 PM | 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 Eric from MO

February 19, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson doesnt have the power to play first.

By kdbanks

February 19, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

Glad to hear Tex isn’t focused no his contract (at least not admitting it publicly). It seems like contract years can either go really good or really bad when the player is thinking about it. When they’re not thinking about it they do their normal thing - which in Tex’s case is great.

Sad news for Bobby…I’m sure all in Braves Nation send their thoughts and condolences.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

Below is a list of the top 20 highest paid baseball players in the 2007 season. I don’t know how accurate it is since I lifted it from Wiki. But ask yourselves which ones are really worth it.

I can only count four players on that list who were worth the money they were paid: Arod, Derek Jeter, Manny Ramirez, Vlad Guerrero.

Even then you could argue that no one is worth what Arod makes but he hit the hell out of the ball last year and fills seats.

Jeter is not really worth that money as well. Based upon production he probably should make half that. But Jeter sells seats, jerseys, hot dogs, beer, and the YES channel, so he becomes worth it in that market only.

Manny Ramirez is in decline and it could be said that he is no longer worth that money. The Red Sox seem to think that as well sometimes since they seem to want to try to trade him all the time. I personally think they are nuts for doing so.

Vlad is probably underpaid.

So I would be very hesitant to pay that money to Tex. In fact, I would not do it. Tex will not sell seats and will not be the worth the kind of money he wants with his production with the bat by the end of his contract.

1. Alex Rodriguez New York Yankees $ 27,708,525

2. Jason Giambi New York Yankees $ 23,428,571

3. Derek Jeter New York Yankees $ 21,600,000

4. Manny Ramirez Boston Red Sox $ 17,016,381

5. Todd Helton Colorado Rockies $ 16,600,000

6. Andy Pettitte New York Yankees $ 16,000,000

7. Bartolo Colon Los Angeles Angels $ 16,000,000

8. Jason Schmidt Los Angeles Dodgers $ 15,703,946

9. Jim Thome Chicago White Sox $ 15,666,667

10. Bobby Abreu New York Yankees $ 15,600,000

11. Barry Bonds San Francisco Giants $ 15,533,970

12. Richie Sexson Seattle Mariners $ 15,500,000

13. Mike Hampton Atlanta Braves $ 15,475,185

14. Carlos Delgado New York Mets $ 14,500,000

15. Vladimir Guerrero Los Angeles Angels $ 14,500,000

16. Lance Berkman Houston Astros $ 14,500,000

17. J.D. Drew Boston Red Sox $ 14,400,000

18. Pedro Martinez New York Mets $ 14,002,234

19. Andruw Jones Atlanta Braves $ 14,000,000

20. Miguel Tejada Baltimore Orioles $ 13,811,415

By texmex

February 19, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

stubhub - but tix are up there in price - i already got mine also got seats right next to braves dougout at shea

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

john77, they’re trying to work out deals with local cable providers. that’s all Peachtree TV is saying. Sorry, all I got….

Matt, like a little of Ben Harper’s stuff, but not a fan of Jack Johnson. Find it bor-ring.

By the way, I’ve given the last White Stripes CD a few more chances, listened with an open mind. And I’ve gotta say, I find most of it annoying.

They’re trying too hard to be quirky. Loved their early CDs, but not the past couple.

OK, back to baseball. Gottra write Teixeira story now.

By David O'Brien

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

Oh, and by the way, Chuck’s throwing off the mound for the first time in camp tomorrow. Bradley did a column on him, should be up later today on website.

And I watched Hampton throw BP today and was impressed. Really. Said his arm feels better than it’s ever felt (he probably didn’t mean that literally, maybe in the past few years he was speaking of). He broke one of Javy Lopez’s bats with a pitch.

By Efrim

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

Dap

If he leaves, I say put Kelly on first and Lillibridge at 2nd.

I couldn’t agree more. I think if Kelly can show his season that he could hit 20 or more home runs, he should be the replacement for Tex at 1st base. Lillibridge could take over at 2nd base.

By texmex

February 19, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

dugout*

By Lew

February 19, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

From The last blog’s discussion-

DAP-You can’t win an argument whose premise is flawed to begin with. If you want to compare Chipper to Diaz, use the entire month of September, don’t just cherry pick one week or nine games. Chipper added ten points to his BA in September-Diaz lost eleven-DOWN THE STRETCH where it REALLY counted-while we still were in the race.

Now, this is making me sound like I’m down on Matt as a player and I’m not. I just don’t think he is as great a hitter full time as he is in a platoon role (and apparently the Braves’ Brass does, too). I really do like him-as a platoon player. I mean who wouldn’t want a .300 hitter in there while the kid is learning?

Part of the reason I would like to see him remain a platoon player is that I really think Brandon Jones can be a standout everyday player and he is MUCH better defensively, though Matt has improved considerably in that department. He still can make a fly ball an adventurous and harrowing experience, though. I didn’t name him Magellan-his teammates did. Yes, it’s a joke, but still.

Note to the Trolls-Now you see that I can argue and disagree with a blogger without calling his intelligence into question or denigrating him in any fashion. But, then again, DAP actually HAS intelligence whereas most of y’all don’t. He is, after all, a Wurlitzer Winner. Y’all will never be. Wurlitzer Envy-That must be it.

Shaun- I absolutely REFUSE to engage you in conversation about ANYTHING on my vacation. No way. No How. It ain’t gonna happen. I’m enjoying myself immensely and would like very much for that to continue. It won’t with you in the equation.

Let’s see here-Meet Chipper and Bobby Cox or argue with Shaun. Hmmmm. Yeah-that’s a choice. Sure It Is. Really. I had to think about it. Yeah, right.

Condolences to the Coxes.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

Eric from MO

If Kelly could increase his home run totals this year, I think he would be a fine 1st baseman capable of slugging .500. Not to mention you are getting an OBP of 380 to go along with the slugging. The guy is a very good offensive player that is getting better.

He is the best young player we have on the team. Better than Heap or Frenchy.

By Duke

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

I dont see Kelly ever moving to first base. I think that would be a bad move especially with Heyward coming up and alot of people talking of him moving over there. If anything Lillibridge will take over for Kelly if he doesnt master the defense it takes to play second, but otherwise Kelly will there for years to come and Lillibridge will probably be a Saltalamachia type guy. We get his name out there, get him some big league at bats so the other teams can see what he’s got and then maybe swing him for a starter next year.

By TennesseePaul

February 19, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

He broke one of Javy Lopez’s bats with a pitch.

Well, it has been a while for Javy’s bats as well. But they’ll all come around I suppose.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Even if KJ didn’t hit 25 or more HR, what would be wrong with a first baseman that hits like Mark Grace did? Grace never was a HR hitter, but hit lots of doubles. Kelly also has triple speed that Grace didn’t.

By rammerjammer

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

It’s totally illogical to think Tex will stay in Atlanta for less than he can make in New York or wherever.

This is not Chipper or Glavine…they have roots in Georgia. Tex transplanted his already.

I see nothing hopeful in his remarks. Fortunately, we have his great bat/glove in ‘08 and good options in ‘09 and beyond.

Braveheart, thanks for the list of mega-millionaires. That put it in perspective.

I say, steer that Tex money in ‘09 to Francoeur and some pitching.

By ncscoots

February 19, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

I know Efrim thinks (and probably many others do also) that Teixeira will get $20+ MM a year from somebody. I’m not so sure. Manny money, or even Carlos Lee money, seems more appropriate, at least today. Rangers offered a lot of years at around $18MM per, and were turned down (I guess even Tex couldn’t imagine eight more years of Ranger-dom), but still…

Will GMs consider him a team-changing player, a pennant-delivering player? Or just a very, very good 1B? I don’t know, and I’m guessing we get an answer in the coming year. If his performance elevates him to the status of the former, Braves probably can’t sign him; if the latter, then he might be signable by the Braves at a sane rate.

But I do think some GMs (even those able to pay the freight) will ask if he merits being one of the five highest salaries in baseball. That might make the difference in offering $18MM and the $20+MM he’s sure to ask.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Duke-Sorry Dude, but Lillibridge will not be the offensive player that KJ is. No way. He does not have Kelly’s power and he has never put up offensive numbers like KJ has-in the minors, much less in the bigs. KJ may not move to first, but Lillibridge will only replace him if KJ moves to another position.

From what we’ve been told, Kelly was the most sought after Braves player this off season. If they were going to trade him, he would already be gone.

By TennesseePaul

February 19, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

I’m not sold on KJ to first. I don’t think it would be a good move. Maybe an adequet short term option (like maybe a few games), but not a long term option. Losing AJ and replacing him with Tex is one thing. Losing AJ and Tex and replacing them with KJ and Jordan Schafer is something else entirely. That’s a massive drop in power production.

Perhaps a trade will be made, but that would cut into the much praised depth that the team currently has. And of course it would cost a few highly thought of prospects… a move that could be viewed as “gutting the farm”. And the last time the farm was “gutted” was for Teixeira. Looking at it from that perspective changes things. 5 players traded for a first baseman. Then, a year and a half later, more players are traded for a first baseman. One that is almost assured of not being anywhere close to as good as Teixeira.

We’ll have to keep our eye on Heyward. If he suddenly sees an increase of playing time at first base this season then it probably signals the impending departure of Teixeira. At least we’ll get draft picks! If the season tanks real bad we can get high draft picks as well! Not sure which to hope for, draft picks are so exciting but so are winning seasons…

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 19, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

DOB - you’re referring to “Icky Thump,” right? I couldn’t agree more, though I’ve listened to it far fewer times than you. I listened to it during a weekend with friends in August or so, and it played through at least twice. The guy who brought it said that it was his favorite White Stripes cd and, in his opinion, the best work they’ve done. The entire time it was on I thought, “meh.” I just couldn’t get into it at all. That “Conquest” cover was awful.

By ncscoots

February 19, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Well, it has been a while for Javy’s bats as well

Musta had his bats on that Bennett chicken-and-rice diet. Not good for bats, Jobu.

By KC

February 19, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

We can’t count on Hampton, and fortunately, the Braves aren’t banking on him… but if he could make 25 starts this year, and could be sharp down the stretch… BOY what a boost that would be to this rotation, which is already getting a boost with Glavine and that collection of good young arms at the back.

I’m not going to predict 25-plus starts from Hampton… but I do think he’ll pitch this year, and I believe his arm will hold up just fine.

By BossLady

February 19, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

This TEX thing is beginning to sound a lot like a most loving marriage going on the rocks. You don’t want to lose him, you really want him and believe you need him, etc. But, you have got to face facts, if he no longer wants you or you don’t give him what he wants (money) then you have to say goodbye. We can’t continue to agonize over whether TEX is gonna leave us or not. We have to be prepared to move on.

GO BRAVES!!!!!!! 2008

By john77

February 19, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Why not move Chipper to fist.Yunel to 3 and Lillibridge to SS.

By HGH

February 19, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson doesnt have the power to play first.

That makes me laugh…besides Teixera now and way back when McGriff, when have the Braves HAD a 1b with power?

KJ’s 20-25 HRs would be welcome after what we have been through in the last 8-10 years.

But sign Teixera anyways.

By KC

February 19, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

If Tex departs after this year, and Brandon Jones impresses… I wouldn’t be shocked to see the Braves try a Diaz/Thorman platoon at 1B next year.

As I mentioned earlier… sure, Thorman blew the first crack he got at regular playing time. But a disappointing half-season by a rookie does not mean the guy will never cut it.

Maybe he will, and maybe he won’t. But if the Braves didn’t see anything in him, he’d already be gone.

Sure would suck to lose Tex’s bat though. I mean, that would really suck.

The price tag’s probably going to be around 23 mill per season for Tex, and I’ll be shocked if the Braves pay that. I do think the Braves may offer a 6 year-120 mill deal… and I believe there’s a chance Tex would accept that if he really enjoys playing here.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

If the fans really want Tex to sign, they had better put 40,000 butts in the Ted every night and people better tune in to the radio and television like crazy every night and they better buy tons of Tex jerseys. Otherwise, why would the Braves sign him?

Scheurholz made it clear in October in an interview with Colin Cowherd about Andruw Jones and Arod that he does not think any baseball player is worth what Tex wants.

Cowherd: “Is anybody worth $30 million a year?”

Schuerholz: “I think it’s obnoxious. I admire and respect Alex Rodriguez as much as any ball player that has played the game. But for someone to suggest that this is a valid salary level for a professional athlete, no matter what kind of voodoo economics they can do in analyzing the books of MLB, it’s absolutely asinine. It only takes one team to have the wherewithal with that player, and then that player and his representatives think ‘Well, this is what the market value is.’ It’s crazy, and so is that level of compensation.”

C: “What do you say when an agent presents you with such a high offer?”

S: “When he presented us with that kind of offer with Andruw Jones, we found it so ridiculous and obnoxious we didn’t even respond. It didn’t even rise to the level of requiring a response. It’s just idiotic. And I suppose there is this theory of some agents out there, that as long as there is one person that has idiotic thinking, that’s all they need because it drives the market to where they want it to go. But there’s no validity to it at all.”

C: “How much is a high-level player worth?”

S: “It’s so hard to draw that comparison now because we are where we are in this environment. We’ve been taken so far out of whack it’s hard to measure what the common sense number would be. I don’t think $10 million is an embarrassing amount of money for a high-level player. I wouldn’t be embarrassed by saying I think the star caliber players in our game, if they received $10 million or so, I think that’s a fair, high level of compensation for a star.”

When Michael Kay relayed the highlights of that interview to Scott Boras, the agent said Schuerholz has a “short memory” and that in 1997 the Braves paid Greg Maddux so much money that the amount relative to MLB’s revenues at the time was the equivalent of a $30 million a year plus deal today.

By McFann

February 19, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

Ummm…here’s a thought: Keep Johnson at second and, if Tex leaves, put Lillibridge to first if the Braves want to keep him. Leave Johnson where he is.

Efrim, I agree that Johnson is better than Frenchy…As far as plate discipline, he is prob’ly the best on the team, up there with Chipper, who’s never struck out more than he has walked in a single season. Putting KJ next to Heap, well, they’re prob’ly about equal in most things. KJ might have better PD (plate discipline), but I say that he and McCann are the best youngsters on the team at this time. Let’s see how things go this year now that McCann cann see clearly.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

I don’t like the idea of KJ moving off 2nd base either, but the guy can hit like a 1st baseman. I have no doubt there. Once Tex leaves, there is no option internally at the moment to replace him. Unless you count Scott Thorman, who I don’t. Kala Kaaihue would have to absolutely dominate Double A to be considered at 1st for 2009.

I am not really sure why people aren’t as big of a fan of Kelly as I am. He takes pitches and hits for power. He is a player that teams want because he couples good on base skills with power and a little bit of speed.

Regarding Heyward, he is an outfielder at the moment. I don’t think you could assume that the Braves have plans to move him to first base. He is very athletic and many scouts felt like the Braves should of kept hm in CF, which was his high school position. They have decided to move him to Right Field because they want him to concentrate solely on hitting the baseball. I’m sure he could move to Left field once he got to the bigs.

By Shaun

February 19, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Lew, while we’re pulling up random stretches of games late in the year, Diaz hit .305 from September 10 on.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

NcScoots

The Yankees have 80 million coming off the books after this season. I have no doubt that they would offer whatever it takes to bring in Tex next year. 23 million seems like a good starting point. Boras will ask for 25 million a year over 8 years as a starting point, but NO ONE will pay that.

To be honest, I wouldn’t pay Tex 20 million over 6 years unless the payroll was going to be well over 100 million dollars. Giving a fifth of your payroll to one single player is absurd. Only teams like the Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, Tigers, Angels, Dodgers and Cubs could afford a guy like Tex. These are the only teams that it even makes sense for.

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Daybed, agreed: The Stripes’ “Conquest” is horrendous.

By Willy

February 19, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Any more info on Aaron? Will he be in camp the rest of the week and weekend or is he just here for meetings and leaving soon?

By Evan

February 19, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

Unfortunately I don’t think we will be able to sign Tex next offseason. Although if we don’t resign Tex I think it would be easy to move Heyward to first. He has about the same skill sets it seems as Ryan Howard, and most websites have him listed around the 20-30 range of overall prospects in all of baseball and could be ready in about 2 years. Granted we’d have to find a suitable stopgap in between Tex and Heyward.

By PutMeInCoach

February 19, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

Has anyone checked out SI.com’s preseason scouting report for the NL East. The writer absolutely rips Yunel Escobar. He basically said that the Braves Front Office has Escobar very overated and that Lillibridge will take over by mid-season.

Crazy…it’s like Yunel had relations with his wife

By kdbanks

February 19, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

That SI preview looks like it was written by an intern that mostly follows women’s basketball. But whatever, we’ll see who they put on the cover in September and October.

By Shaun

February 19, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

Here’s what Dayn Perry said about the young Braves including Yunel Escobar:

The Braves also probably won’t be making the playoffs this year, but they’ve hung in there the entire way. The presence of Jeff Francoeur (23), Brian McCann (23), Kelly Johnson (25), Yunel Escobar (24) and Chuck James (25) mean they’ll likely come back strong next season.

Who to hate? The SI writer or Dayn Perry? Ahh!! I’m confused!!

By KC

February 19, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

McFann: First base would be a wast of Lillibridge’s speed and range. Not to say range doesn’t matter at 1B… just that it matters more in the middle infield or in the OF. I can’t think of a single instance where I’ve ever seen someone that fast at 1B.

If anyone currently on this team moves to 1B next year, it would be Matt Diaz. I think Diaz could be a Mark Grace type… only with slightly more pop, and a little lower -though still solid- OBP (because he doesn’t walk).

Unless Lillibridge makes the team and impresses the hell out of everyone, he could very well spend one more season (2009) as a super -or at least we hope he’ll be “super”- utility man.

I’m very hopeful that he can fill that role this season. It’s an important one with Chipper’s various health concerns.

I’m obviously even more hopeful that Chipper can play 150 games, but if not, I’m anxious to see what Lillibridge has got.

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 19, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

PutMeInCoach: Yup, plenty here have read the SI.com’s article. Plenty of statements on here and the previous blogs, all saying pretty much the same that you’re saying.

By richbrave

February 19, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

COWHERD:

What an idiot!! Now he WANTS Caron back in L.A. Years ago he considered him a bust and wanted him gone. Kwame and Profit for Butler and Adkins. Now there’s a deal.

Condolences to Cox’s and his wife’s families

By TennesseePaul

February 19, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

KJ vs Lillibridge. Minor league career juxtaposition:

Player      Yrs  AVG  OBP  SLG  OPS  aAVG aOBP aSLG aOPS
Lillibridge   3 .285 .369 .444 .813  .245 .364 .501 .865
KJohnson      7 .281 .366 .464 .830  .246 .367 .527 .894

They are pretty similar as far as traditional averages go. KJ has more power but Brent hits for a slightly better average and slightly better OBP.

But, if you look at the adjusted numbers based on every appearance at the plate KJ takes a good lead. Lillibridge edges KJ in every “speed” category though. Lillibridge is just faster than KJ.

Seeing how well Yunel fairs this season will probably be a factor for Lillibridge. If Yunel fulfills BP projections, Lillibridge will replace him. I get a sort of Troy Tulowitzki impression concerning Lillibridge. It’ll be interesting no matter what happens. It’s nice to have an abundance of good young players.

By DAP

February 19, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

also from the last blog…sorry i went out to lunch

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!!!

this part added on now

Lew, i appreciate the wulitzer props…im still amazed that i won it.

i agree with you on what diaz’s role should be. i only argue that we dont know weather playing everyday would make his numbers go down. you have stated that he couldnt keep it up, and there just isnt any hard evidence for this. you claim fatigue and over exposure cause his “slump” in september.

diaz’s worse month was april! was he over exposed and fatigued in april? must have had a tuff spring!! his “september swoon” is something every single player in the majors deals with. every single one! diaz just happend to have a down month in september.

nothing about that is flawed, buddy.

By Luther

February 19, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

Efrim- He is the best young player we have on the team. Better than Heap or Frenchy.

I hate even bringing this up because I like Kelly a lot and there is reason he could be better than the two mentioned players, but I don’t think you can say this absolutely. Based on what they have done or potential. In comparing what they have done, McCann has already been an all-star twice in his only two full seasons. Is that comparable to a guy who lost his everyday job and platooned a portion of last year? And if you are looking at potential, Francoer seems to have a pretty high ceiling to me. I just think if you told the Braves you get to keep 2 of the 3 guys, they don’t even take the time to think about it and keep Frenchy and McCann.

By kdbanks

February 19, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

If Chipper (god forbid) gets hurt, or simply needs a rest, wouldn’t Yunel move to third and Infante play shortstop? Yunel was solid at third last year I thought. In this case, Lillibridge (or as SI calls him - “The Next David Wright!!!”) would stay at AAA and play everyday.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

I would consider Diaz at 1st base. I wonder if he could field the position though.

He won’t offer the home run pop. But I think he could manage to serve as a good platoon there. I’m sure we could get a left handed hitting 1st baseman on the market next season, or trade for one if need be. Ben Broussard and Scott Hatteberg will be available. Of course, in my opinion, those two are better options than Thorman. But that is just my take.

By jake

February 19, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

this text will be bolded Braves are the underdogs of the east. i really want 2 cee more off mark kotsay!!!!!

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

Fidel Castro steps down.

The SI article is ghost written and bashes Yunel Escobar.

Not a coincidence.

Fidel Castro now works for Sports Illustrated.

By KC

February 19, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

PutMeInCoach: “He basically said that the Braves Front Office has Escobar very overated and that Lillibridge will take over by mid-season. Crazy…it’s like Yunel had relations with his wife”

That’s a pretty good guess. I understand that national writers don’t have the benefit of seeing every team up close on a regular basis… so it makes sense that national writers are often off base on things that are even obvious to many Braves fans who don’t get paid for understanding baseball (or the fans of any other team a national writer may be opining about).

However, if you don’t know what the hell you’re talking about, you should probably refrain from making bold (and more than a little uninformed) statements… like the stuff this writer said about Escobar.

Sounds like a bad case of head-in-@ss syndrome to me.

By ncscoots

February 19, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

Efrim, I submit that Tex will not get Santana money. That leaves him a wee bit short of $23MM a year.

Did Boras’ office hire you part-time, LOL?

By Josh H

February 19, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

PutMeInCoach:

Yeah, he ripped Kotsay too. Which is funny because the only issue with Kotsay is his healthy. Statistically, he’s very similar to a CF who just grabbed a 5 year, $18 mil per deal (Tori Hunter).

Oh, and then there is this [http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=neel/080219]. Really, is this a joke, Braves at #26. Of course, he listed the White Sox at #3, so the guy really lost all credibility there.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

Efrim

I agree with your logic on Tex not being resigned by the Braves. That being the case if the Braves don’t make the playoffs this year was the trade for him a bad one? 1 1/2 years for 5 prospects?

BTW- All that Yankee money coming loose was another reason Minaya had to make the move for Santana now. As a free agent the Yanks would have paid the moon for him and kept their prospects.

As for Tex to the Red Sox. If Manny starts to fade I could see them going after Tex and moving Youkilis to left. They get about 10 years younger in the swap and keep him away from the Yanks. Yanks are a better prospect I agree but I don’t think you can completely discount the Sox unless Manny looks real solid this year.

By McFann

February 19, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

OK, KC, I see. Obviously I don’t know a whole lot about Lillibridge. But you people seem to sometimes forget that Johnson is fast, too.

Oh yeah, what’s up with Francoeur and TP? giving each other a high-five because they made fun of what McCann was wearing? Dude…I cann expect that from Francoeur, but I mean, grow up a little, ya know?

By DAP

February 19, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

McFann Johnson is better than Frenchy…As far as plate discipline, he is prob’ly the best on the team, up there with Chipper, who’s never struck out more than he has walked in a single season.

kelly johnson struck out 117 times in 521 ABs. we walked 79 times. he has good plate discpline…but he strikes out a whole lot. im thinking he’ll cut back on those and be our future #3 hitter.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Luther

I know Frenchy dazzles people with the arm and RBI’s, but at this stage of their careers, Kelly is the better offensive player.

In terms of ceiling, if Francouer doesn’t improve his plate discipline, he simply won’t ever be a better offensive player than Kelly Johnson.

I really hope Braves management feels the same way I do.

Plate discipline like Johnson’s, at 25 years of age, is an attribute that not many in baseball have.

As far as McCann goes, they are probably equal. Especially since it is so difficult to find such a good young catcher like he is.

But I’ll take Kelly over Frenchy. I like Francouer. And maybe he will continue to develop his OBP skills, but as of right now, Kelly is the better offensive threat.

By ncscoots

February 19, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Who to hate? The SI writer or Dayn Perry?

Even a blind douchebag finds a nut once in a while.

And don’t blame SI for anything except lifting a BP article. Or having it “contributed”. Or whatever. No SI writer (in its heyday, anyway) would compose such drivel.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

Scoots

I just know that is the way Boras works.

I think he will get more than Santana. Mostly because I think the Angels and Mets will be after Tex as well. The Yankees can’t lose out on Tex. Hank will flip out. They will offer whatever it takes to get the guy.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

DAP-Likely what we are engaged in is a debate that will take neither of us anywhere of significance.

I think the thing we need to remember is that Matt will likely platoon with someone this season in left. I sincerely hope Matt does bat .340 again and that whoever shares time with him (likely Brandon Jones) hits better than Willie Harris did.

As for the idea of Chipper at first. Ordinarily I would consider this an option, but Chipper played Gold Glove Defense (despite Wright’s win of the award) last year.He apparently is not slowing as a defensive player. If the reason to send him to first is to help him avoid injury,then it is a dubious move. There is infinitely more chance for him to be injured at first than at third.

If, however, you are looking for someone to fill in for a year until Heyward is ready,then a deal similar to the Kotsay deal could be struck. Someone on another blog suggested Nick Johnson of the Nats,if he’s healthy. That might just work.

Shaun-I refer you to paragraphs five and six of my 1:21 post.

By ncscoots

February 19, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

Think I will now take the same stand as Teixeira on contracts.

I will not discuss Teixeira’s contract; I have to get ready for the season. I will blog about baseball all day long, but anyone who wants to blog about Teixeira’s contract, see my agent.

HA!

By Luther

February 19, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

Anders I was really hoping you wouldn’t mind telling us your opinion on whether or not the Braves will resign Tex. I always read the blog here and have just been waiting on your opinion on this matter. Maybe you could post the same opinion on every post and if we forget what your opinion is we won’t have to look any farther than your last post.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Jeter is not worth that kind of money, but he sure is worth tons of money, that guy aint about numbers, his presence somehow means winning. One of those guy that even sitting in the dogout helps your team win, he is about winning. Same goes for Manny, you just cant pitch to that guy, you can throw behind him and he will find a way to hit the ball, even if its foul.

McFann try copying your text before clicking on POST, i do that most of the time in order to prevent nightmares.

People wakeup, TEX saying that he is just focusing on winning the division doesnt automatically means that. What do you expect? for him to say he cant stop thinking about how many zeros will his next contract have?

By Drew

February 19, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Read this…the Braves “sold the farm” for Texieira. If they didn’t want/didn’t think they could get him long term (6 years) they wouldn’t have unloaded Saltalamaccia and Elvis Andrus. Schurholtz is smarter than that.

And the YANKEES have 80$ million coming off payroll? Well the BRAVES have close to $50 million to work with…

1)losing Andruw Jones worthless a*(he made $13.5 last year and 18 this year. We saved $18 million in my book)

2)Mike Hampton and his $22 mil are gone next year (he owes us in my book)

3)Chipper won’t make NEARLY as much as he has the past 6 years even though he will be resigned

4)Glavine’s 8.5 million off the books

5)Smoltz’ 2009 option

yeah they’ll sign Francoeur long term (I speculate 6 years $50 million) but Liberty, being a business, will realize the market potential Francoeur brings to the table (benefit outweighs the cost)…

So, develop Jair Jurrjens, keep Tex happy, hope McCann loses a little weight and have Frenchy drop bombs and the 2008 Braves are definitely soaring under the radar but I think will surprise a TON of people come September.

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Willy, Hank’s just here for meetings. I’d imagine today’s only day he’ll be out here. Possibly tomorrow, but not beyond that.

By ssiscribe

February 19, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Eric in MO: Nah, dude, not saying I think Javy will or should or even could play everyday. Not at all what I’m saying, man.

What I am saying is Javy has alluded to the fact he believes he can do more than just be a backup. Personally, I don’t see him playing 135 games this year for anybody. But, injuries open up opportunities and if somebody loses their catcher in mid-March and Javy’s having a great camp, he could end up with the opportunity to play more than every fifth day.

Here’s the end of a story Carroll wrote about Javy on Feb. 5:

He’s regained confidence in his arm by making throws to targets 10 feet beyond second base. And he’s set his sights high.

Lopez wants not only to break camp as a backup but make enough of an impact to spark trade interest from teams looking for an every day catcher.

“You never know,” Lopez said. “I’m focusing on playing well. I will make all this hard work pay off.”

—30—

By Ramblin Wrecker

February 19, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

DAP & McFann,

Kelly Johnson works every count deep. I think the difference between him and Chipper Jones or even Brian McCann is the respect factor. When pitchers fall behind guys like Chipper or McCann, they rarely come back into the strike zone (on purpose). I think KJ gets challenged more in deep counts and is obviously not the same caliber of hitter as the other two. He’s still a good hitter and I think he’ll develop along the way to turn more of those deep counts into hits instead of strikeouts. I also think that he has an exceptional eye at the plate, sometimes too exceptional for his own good, because he will take some pitches that even though they might be called balls, he could put good wood on and also because umpires aren’t giving him the same calls as a Chipper Jones, so he will take some borderline pitches that Chip might walk on, but he gets rang up. I think he’ll eat into that margin over time, heck he’s just played his first FULL season in the bigs.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Efrim-I hear what you’re saying about KJ’s upside and I agree with your assessment of him.

However, as to Frenchy-Dude,he is quite possibly the most devastating threat in the NL with two out and runners in scoring position. When the situation calls for an RBI guy, I would never quibble about having Frenchy up at bat. NEVER. He’s as close to a guarantee as Albert Pujols in those situations. He’s done it for two successive years, too.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Efrim Problem is not who will play 1B….. even chipper can do so, matt, maybe JF, problem is CLEANUP HITTER. Someone to hit cleanup that pitchers respect. Not converting someone like AJs case. I think LA will get the best out of him if they dont put him 4th. Trying JF and BM at 4th spot will be dumb. Putting chipper will be aswell. We need real cleanup hitter. We have TEX, why the hell let him go. Give him 10 years or whatever he wants, the guy earns it.

By Jim H.

February 19, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

That SI idiot must have been watching a different Yunel Escobar than I was last season. I saw an extremely confident, swift footed, strong armed, high BA, clutch hitting, rising star that did not play at all like a rookie. I can clearly see why the Braves moved Renteria (as painful as it was to do it). It always amazes me how incompetent lots of the national sports writers are anyway. I see inaccuracies related to Braves players all the time (and if you look up incompetent in the dictionary there will be a picture of Dayn Perry from Fox Sports staring back at you…… What a dipsh!t!) . You can’t beat local writers that actually know something about the team —— like DOB.

By Jim

February 19, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

Do agents or players take cost of living into account? I’m thinking that the equivalent of 20 million dollars/year in Atlanta would be closer to 24 million in NY or Boston. If it is just an ego thing, then go for the higher number, but if it is about comparable lifestyles, then cost of living must also be considered.

By ncgary

February 19, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

as far as the tex contract why not get creative, offer 10 million to sign and first 3 years deflated where we average around 14 million a year, then have 3 yrs overvalued,trade him before the contract necomes too excessive

lew received the smoltz print today , wow, thanks, love it

everyone ready to hear play ball go braves

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Drew

Doesn’t work that way dude. Braves are losing about 25 million off the books.

Hampton is apparently only making 9 million this year.

Glavine is making 8 million

Texiera is making 12.5 million.

That is 29.5 million coming off the books. Figure a raise of Soriano from 3 million he is making this year to the 6 that he is making next year and you are down to 26.5 million. Then figure the raises to players through arbitration and other contractual increases.

I figure the Braves have around 20 million or so to play with if they keep the payroll where it is right now. Will they increase it to fill needs in other areas and sign Tex long term? We will have to wait to find out.

But rest assured it is a clean 75-80 million that the Yankees are getting off their books.

Giambi(22 million), Pettitte(16 million), Abreu(16 million), Mussina(12.5 million), Farnsworth(7 million) and Hawkins(3 million). 76.5 million right there. Figure contractual salaray increases and arb. players and lets say they have 60 million to work with.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

Lew when Grace was 1B he was not cleanup there was a guy called Dawson and i guess there were other cleanup hitters there.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

Lew

Frenchy is clutch, no doubts there. But I like Kelly’s offensive game more. That is just my preference though.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

Efrim

*just know that is the way Boras works.

I think he will get more than Santana.*

Efrim, you are dead on. BTW- Boras won’t be using Santana as the measuring stick - It’ll be A-Rod. Of course Tex doesn’t have A-Rod’s body of work but $23 mil ain’t $30 mil either.

How about an $80 mil infield once Jeter gets his new deal in a year or so?

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

Don’t know that I’m ready to make odds on Teixeira signing, but I will say there are far, far better odds of Francoeur signing an extension, and far sooner.

I think that could get done in the next couple of weeks.

By Efrim

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

Overlord

Teixiera is a impact cleanup hitter. I agree. But I think it is too risky to give him 20 million dollars a year when you have 100 million dollar payroll.

By Bryan

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

Yall, that Cnn - Si article has been discussed before … when it first apeared as [a baseball prospectus article] (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=7119)

The guy who wrote it, his name is Joe Sheehan … whats weired, is her is the guy who wrote the article about Frenchey breaking out this year????

Whatever …

you can e-mail him your problems here

By richbrave

February 19, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

LEW: Yours of 3:04 p.m. And better year over year also. I’m telling you he’s Chip’s heir apparant. The sky’s the limit on this man unless he is seriously injured.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

I like the move 77 mentions more, about moving chipper to 1B, yunel 3B, Lilli SS.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

Overlord-Who said anything about cleanup? The discussion was about KJ at first base. Someone else would obviously bat cleanup. There is no rule that it must be a first baseman batting cleanup- At least not that I’m aware of. Besides, if you’ll look at another of my posts, you’ll see I advocate doing a deal like Kotsay’s to get a guy at first until Heyward is ready.

By knowitall

February 19, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

Jim,

If your making $20 million, I don’t think cost of living is really an issue.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

Luther

Feel free to skip my posts.

BTW- My opinion on the possibility of the Braves signing of Tex has not wavered from the day the Braves acquired him, unlike many on here. If you’ve been reading the blog I guess you already know that. If you’ll just be patient there’s a narrow minded train asking for only Brave fans opinions that passes through every 5 minutes or so. No ticket required. I suggest you get on.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

Overlord-MY preference would be to sign Tex long term, too. However, we were discussing possible options should this not occur.

By Drew

February 19, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

take andruw’s salary (18) and take Kotsay’s (2) and add $16 right on the top of that $20 million..Glavine won’t come back @ $8 mil a year. I guarantee that the Braves will have more than $20 to invest…I’d say closer to $35-40 million anum

By ncscoots

February 19, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

…chipper to 1B, yunel 3B, Lilli SS.

Strat-O-Matic lives.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

Braveheart i would have answered exactly what JS answered on that interview. But as i mention, you can replace years for money. If you know what i mean.

By knowitall

February 19, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

Why do you all keep bringing up Chipper moving to first? It’s not going to happen. Chipper likes to bat 3rd and play 3rd base. Neither of those things are going to change.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

Efrim i dont even like KJs fielding in 2B, but I do think for him to go to 1B would be a mistake. I rather watch him make errs at 2B than let our cleanup hitter go away.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

NCGary-Glad you like the art. I agree-get creative with the Tex contract. I’ll be glad to have Boras write it into his contract that I’ll sweeten the deal the Braves make by giving him a painting of his choice. Think that might make the difference? It’s definitely something he will not receive going to New York or LA.

Anders-This is not meant as a rip, but a quite serious question. How can the Mets afford another contract over $150-175 million when next year they will have to replace not only Del Gado, but Alou, Perez, ElDuque, Pedro and Wagner-none of whom are under contract next year? I believe Maine will also be arbitration eligible. You also traded all but one of your top prospects to get Santana, so there is little relief in that direction.

Add to this that were they to sign Tex after spending all of that $$$ on Santana, and lowballing Wright and Reyes with their long term contracts, there will be almost guaranteed clubhouse dissension. I do not see the Mets signing Teixeira.

By Wayne in Utah

February 19, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Jim It’s all about ego with a guy like Scott Boras. He could have kept Beltran in a place that he would have been more comfortable in right off the bat, like Houston. They were willing to pay.

As for the Tex discussion. First off, I hope we sign him. Secondly, I hope we don’t screw up our team by signing him. Would it be better to ensure we keep guys like Francoeur, McCann, Escobar, KJ, Soriano, and some of our young pitchers happy? I think the answer is yes. One player can be replaced. I think we will see the truth in that this year as we proceed without Andruw.

Now, who will play first IF Tex does not sign? WAY too early to tell. Would Chipper move over from third, if we had a better choise (via trade or internally) for third? He has proven to be a team player time and again.

Would Thorman be a potential? I think so, if he improves. Do we have guys on the farm that might come up in 1-3 years to fill in there? Yes, Cody Johnson is a possiblility, as is Heyward or KK.

Way to early to put Kelly on first, although I do think he might end up either at third or first eventually.

How would this lineup look in 2009?

C Baby Huey McCann 1B Thorman/Pena (Chipper in 2010) 2B KJ SS Escobar 3B Hoss (KJ in 2010) LF BJones (pushed by Heyward in 2010) CF Schafer (pushed by Hernandez in 2010) RF Frenchy (until pigs fly!)

Just some thoughts early on.

Lew Hope your basking in the sunlight, and having a great time. Sounds like you are!!

By McFann

February 19, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Overlord. I’ll try to remember that with my long posts.

Efrim, I agree. Johnson over Francoeur is the way I would go, too.

By DAP

February 19, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Drew take andruw’s salary (18) and take Kotsay’s (2) and add $16 right on the top of that $20 million..Glavine won’t come back @ $8 mil a year. I guarantee that the Braves will have more than $20 to invest

what? youre not making much sense…why would we use andruw’s 2008 salary in any equation for the braves’ budget? ill be honest dude, you lost me.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Long live Strat-O-Matic!!

By BravesWeenFan

February 19, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

IF chipper is with the braves for the next … i don’t know … four years … he will not play the whole time at the hot corner… i wouldn’t write off a stop at 1b

(Escobar, if he bulks up and his range diminishes, maybe, is a good 3rd baseman … got a cannon of an arm).

By Greg in TN

February 19, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Good afternoon denizens…

Let me begin by adding my condolences to the Cox family for their loss.

Tex is in the fold, is this his first and only spring at Dark Star? Too early to tell, and Tex is playing it just right by focusing on the task at hand. 162 comes first, then worry about 18 per or 20 per or more later.

I would be stunned to see him sign an extention. Stunned. Sure, it’s within the realm of possibility, but I’d bet dollars to donuts that the Braves would pay a premium to Tex and Bora$ before the market gets a say and Bora$ always wants to take his players to the market and let the bidding frenzy begin. Even though he made some miscalculations last offseason with ARod and was outmaneuvered by the Braves in jumping out of the AJ sweepstakes early, I would expect him to come out with guns blazing this offseason.

In the end, Tex may well bolt for the green pastures and the piles of green cash that the Steinbrenner boys will throw at him next offseason. He could decide that he likes the lay of the land in Georgia and resign with the Braves. But that’s something I’m quite comfortable worrying about once the season is done, folks.

Right now it’s Grapefruit League action in my crosshairs, followed by a date with the Nats at the opening of the rather generic sounding Nationals Park.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Efrim

You forgot the $10 mil in quarters the Steinbrenner boys have in their change jars on their dressers.

By john77

February 19, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

knowitall Chipper has moved before.If Tex don’t sign I thank Chipper would move to 1B if the team needs him to and Yunel at 3B and Lillibriged SS.That if Tex don’t sign.They might go after another 1B who knows.If they did’n Chipper would be great at 1B.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

Lew if you replace TEX with KJ and KJ with lillibridge, who will be your cleanup hitter? lillibridge? jeff? brian? chipper? thats what i meant. There are no options if you move KJ to 1B.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Chipper can’t, won’t, and shouldn’t leave third base. We’re talking about a player who has a chance to become the best third baseman of all time. The best chance for Chipper to make the Hall of Fame and to be in the lofty company of Schmidt, Mathews, Brett, Boggs, Home Run Baker, and eventually Alex Rodriguez is to finish his career off at third base. Some fans won’t like that but if you want your greats to be remembered as one of the greats, you can’t just go repositioning him all over the field. It’s nice and all for him to eventually be remembered as one of the best switch hitters of all time but that is not quite the same legacy as being remembered as one of the best third baseman of all time. So put down the XBOX joystick for a second.

By Wayne in Utah

February 19, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

I love KJ’s bat, but I would take Frenchy ALWAYS with the game on the line.

I suspect 2008 will be the year of the “Frenchy Connection.”

By Ron Roberts

February 19, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

Anybody else read the NL East Preview capsules on SI.com? It’s right HERE if you didn’t get to check it out; but PLEASE do. Tell me if you’re as shocked and scratching your head as I am after SI’s synopsis on Yunel Escobar and the Braves roster lacking a leadoff guy.

Huh? Did they not watch the same guy we did, last year? Ya know, the one w/the baseball instincts that made us all go “wow” in the Arizona game? The one who stepped in everytime we needed a spot-start (or the long injury-stretch Renteria was out for) and oh, you know, hit, hit for average, ran the bases well, and fielded the middle infield positions so well as a rook…

…and they’re higher on Lillibridge than Yunel for SS. I’d thought the Braves viewed Brent as a super-utility guy… and SI has ‘em backwards. Thoughts?

By Workinlkeadawg

February 19, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

All the talk of back up catchers, Glavine’s return, Hampton’s health is a boring soap opera. MARK MY WORDS: Diaz should be penciled in the line up daily. The platooning should be b/t Kotsay and Anderson. The Braves made killer deals in the off season , starting with Anderson,Jair,letting smiley Jones go. If Tex stays it will probably be due to Arthur’s confirmation as owner after 2009 (It’d be funny if you wern’t a Bravo fan). Liberty is going to run the whole organization in the ground. I see Bobby leaving in disgust along with our super ex-GM. Sorry the writing was on the wall the day Blank’s ownership went down the drain.

By Wayne in Utah

February 19, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

Bold prediction for the bench: Lillibridge, Prado (Infante a bit later), Pena, BJones and Scott Thorman (with Josh Anderson waiting in the wings).

Sorry Javy, but I think we keep a young kid that can play a few spots versus the stroll down memory lane.

By ObiWanKobe

February 19, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

While keeping his roots in Atlanta, Andruw Jones already wants to extend his career with the Dodgers, saying he will bounce back from a bad 2007.

By Dylan Hernandez, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer February 16, 2008

DULUTH, Ga. — Nine tall boxes sit in the garage of Andruw Jones’ nine-bedroom house, taped up and ready to be shipped to Los Angeles. Inside are his clothes.

Almost everything else the Dodgers’ new center fielder owns will remain at his residence in suburban Atlanta, at least until he can see beyond the next two years.

Asked last week about buying a house in Los Angeles or enrolling his 4-year-old son in kindergarten next fall, Jones prefaced his responses with a conditional clause: “If I get an extension.”

To be able to answer questions about his future more definitively, Jones will first have to answer questions about whether he can recover from what he described as the toughest season of his 11-year career, played entirely so far with the Atlanta Braves.

“It’s all about this year,” he said.

Jones’ life is in Atlanta. What the 30-year-old wants to know is whether he’ll be with the Dodgers long enough to start a new one in Los Angeles. The first day of the next phase of his life will be Sunday, when he plans to report for spring training in Vero Beach, Fla.

His contract with the Dodgers is for two years and will pay him $36.2 million, the length of the deal reflecting the doubts created by his performance at the plate. Jones won his 10th Gold Glove award for fielding last season, but hit a career-low .222 with 26 home runs, down from a major league-best 51 in 2005 and 41 in 2006.

Scott Boras, Jones’ agent, noted that the short-term deal would allow Jones to quickly re-enter the free-agent market upon re-establishing his value. But Jones says he wants to avoid that, adding that he’d discuss an extension as soon as the Dodgers are ready.

“I want to be there for a while, like I was with the Braves,” Jones said.

He was called up to the majors at 19, hitting two home runs in Game 1 of the 1996 World Series. Jones stayed with the Braves from then until last September, long enough that not an eyebrow was raised when he walked into their clubhouse at Turner Field last week accompanied by his live-in personal trainer, Daniel Leoncio.

On his way to the batting cages, he bumped fists with Chipper Jones. He exchanged hugs with Brian McCann and Peter Moylan. Another former teammate asked if he still had his old locker. Jones leaned back and laughed.

“He’s a special guy,” Braves Manager Bobby Cox said. “Great in the clubhouse. You’ll never hear him pout about anything, except losing.”

For most of the off-season, Jones hit in the batting cage in the basement of his house. Throwing to him was either Braves first base coach Glenn Hubbard or strength coach Frank Fultz. When an injury put an end to Hubbard’s house calls last month, Jones went back to his old home away from home.

And the Braves didn’t mind that the enemy was using their facility three times a week?

“The enemy?” Moylan asked, shaking his head and smiling. “If someone’s been here as long as he’s been, he’s not the enemy.”

That probably won’t change April 18, the day the Dodgers open a three-game series at Turner Field and Jones enters the visiting clubhouse for the first time.

“I could hit 10 home runs against them and still walk in this ballpark,” Jones said. “They love me.”

That includes the team’s young players.

“Age-wise, he was always the baby with the Braves,” said Jones’ wife, Nicole. “It’s mostly the younger guys that he relates to.”

Such as McCann, the Braves’ 23-year-old catcher, who called Jones “family.” McCann, another Duluth resident, often hit at Jones’ house and played basketball with him at a local gym this winter.

Driving out of the players’ parking lot at the stadium, Jones glanced over at the autograph-seekers and waved.

“When a change like this happens, you find out how much you were appreciated,” Jones said. “Now that I’m moving, a lot of people are telling me, ‘We’re going to miss you,’ or ‘We wish you could have stayed.’ “

Staying wasn’t an option. He said then-Braves general manager John Schuerholz approached him last season about extending his contract, but that the club was interested in offering him only one more year.

Jones didn’t take well to free agency. Nicole said that he never said anything to her about his season-long slump, but he couldn’t hide his anxiety of being without a contract.

Told by a friend that it could take months for her husband to find a new team, Nicole said her reaction was: “Months? Oh my gosh, he’s going to have a nervous breakdown.”

By late November, Jones said he already was leaning toward the Dodgers, something Manager Joe Torre seemed to sense in a meeting at Dodger Stadium that included owner Frank McCourt and General Manager Ned Colletti.

“It seemed like a special meeting,” Torre said. “It didn’t seem like a meeting that was just sort of getting a feel for something. It sounded like he genuinely wanted to come to us.”

Jones took comfort in what McCourt told him.

“He said he really wanted to win,” Jones said. “He told me, ‘We want to win and we want to win right away.’ That opened my eyes a little bit. I related to what he was talking about.”

Furthermore, he felt the owner would provide him the long-term stability he wanted if he could demonstrate that he was the same player that he was two or three years ago.

Said McCourt: “It’s my hope that he’s a Dodger for a long, long time.”

The relationship has started with both sides trying to please, the team arranging to get Jones his customary No. 25, worn last season by Esteban Loaiza, and Jones volunteering to play in the Dodgers’ two exhibition games next month in Beijing.

Wherever he ends up down the road, Jones said, his home in Duluth will remain his primary residence. But by staying with the Dodgers, he said, he hopes to give his two children a routine.

Nicole has talked to a school near the Calabasas home they will rent about letting their son, Druw, attend a school in Georgia in the winter. Madison, Jones’ 10-year-old daughter from a previous relationship, will remain in the Atlanta area to live with her grandmother. Her mother passed away four years ago and plans are for Madison to visit her father regularly.

But any semblance of normality Jones can manufacture in this brave new world could be short-lived if he doesn’t fix the problems at the plate that mystified him last season.

He had always hit his way out of slumps, such as when he endured an 0-for-28 spell in April 2005 and finished the month with only three home runs. He finished that season with more homers than anyone in the majors.

He waited for something similar to happen last year. And waited. And waited. Then, the season was over.

Jones had trouble sleeping. He watched video of himself obsessively, often with computer screens placed side-by-side, one showing his at-bats from the recently concluded season and the other with images from as far back as when he was in the minors. He made frequent runs to the batting cage in the basement, experimenting with minute adjustments.

His conclusion: His stance was too wide, causing him to fly open.

But there was something else, something he felt in his gut during the season: “I wasn’t that strong.”

Told by Boras that he should lose weight to make himself more attractive on the free-agent market, Jones spent the winter leading up to the 2007 season lifting lighter weights and running more. He lost 15 pounds and reported to camp at 225.

That Jones struck out 138 times wasn’t a surprise; he has struck out at least 100 times every full season that he has played. But in previous years, when he whiffed on a pitch, he often felt that he would’ve crushed it over the wall had he made contact. Not last season.

He dedicated this winter to rebuilding his strength and adding the 15 lost pounds, weight that he said won’t affect his ability to play center field.

“My whole career, I’ve known how to carry my weight,” he said. “I know how to run balls down.”

Because, according to Cox, “His instincts are better than anyone else’s.”

But what appears to be instinct was trained into him early in life. Jones was raised speaking Papiamento, English, Spanish and Dutch on the Caribbean island of Curacao, a country his father Henry represented in baseball and volleyball in the 1960s and ’70s.

“When Andruw was born, he had a glove in his crib,” said Henry, who still lives in Curacao.

When Andruw got older, Henry had him squat like a catcher and hop around the bases, something Henry called the “duck walk.” He had him swing a 10-pound sledgehammer, but using only his wrists.

“I didn’t abuse him,” Henry said. “I made him hard.”

He had his son run from foul pole to foul pole, hitting him three or four fly balls on each of his dashes across the outfield grass. Catching fly balls in Curacao was no simple matter, as the wind blew constantly.

Compared to that, Andruw said laughing, fly balls in the United State are “a piece of cake.”

Andruw signed with the Braves and moved to the U.S. on his own at 16. But until he was an established major leaguer, he returned to the island every winter to train with his father.

“We worked like hell,” Henry said, recalling their two-a-day workouts.

But however much Henry pushed his son, he let him know that if didn’t reach the big leagues, he could always go home.

Don’t worry. Have fun.

Henry’s sense is that Andruw couldn’t do that in his contract year last season.

“He doesn’t want to admit it, but it’s really that,” Henry said.

That could be why Jones distinctly remembers the congratulatory phone call he received from Torre upon signing.

“You don’t have to go out there and be this guy,” Jones recalled being told. “You just have to go out there and play your game and have fun.”

By DAP

February 19, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

bravesweenfan IF chipper is with the braves for the next … i don’t know … four years … he will not play the whole time at the hot corner

why not? do you think a 40 year old cant play 3rd base?

By flange1

February 19, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

I kind of agree with Efrim and Wayne, I would love to have Tex next year, but I don’t want to ruin the team to sign him. As Efrim says 20-25 million for 1 player when the team payroll is less than 100 million doesn’t work.

But there will be other options NEXT year if Tex bolts. Some or even most of those options are not known yet.

Who knows, at the end of spring training the Braves might trade B Jones and Chuck James for a stud power hitting left fielder…….And we might not even need Tex…Well maybe not…

By DAP

February 19, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

overlord look for frenchy to establish himself this year as the braves’ next cleanup hitter.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

Lew

I had the Mets as an outside shot at signing Tex. That was before I read something about Delgado’s contract today I didn’t know. The $16 mil option for next year is Delgado’s, if he achieves certain number of points based on a complicated version of MVP votes and such over the life of his present contract. The article said he would have to run the table on all this years awards to do so. Highly unlikely but if he does, $16 mil is a bargain. The second option is the clubs at $12 mil per year(versus a $4 mil buyout) . Unless he falls flat on his face this year I expect they’ll pick up that option at a net $ 8 mil. Perez will be sticky especially with Boras as his agent. I will find it quite humorous next off season if the bloggers on here are making a case for signing this “One shot wonder” as he’s now known on here! As for Alou and El Duque - you have to expect to turn over guys every year. Maybe Martinez will be ready to take Alou’s place - we’ll see. As for Wagner - Let’s see what Sanchez has. He was very effective as a set up man before he got hurt. If Sanchez comes back healthy he’d be a natural progression to stopper. They may resign Wagner if he’s still effective too.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

People are forgetting this as well: Chipper at third is special because of how much better he is offensively than the average third baseman.

Chipper at first base is not as special because his numbers are not as dramatically better than the average first baseman as his numbers are at third.

McCann is special at catcher, not at first.

Kelly Johnson is special at second, not at first.

Yunel Escobar is special at shortstop, not at third.

People on here have talked about how the Braves have been able to get away with lesser production from first base over the years.

Their names were usually Chipper Jones and Andruw Jones and Javy Lopez and the last two years, Brian McCann.

The Braves were getting offensive production from three positions that were so much better than the average player at those positions where you rarely get great offense that you could get away with average or below average production out of first.

This nonsense about moving Chipper to first, Lillibridge to short, and Escobar to third would only make the Braves weaker because the added offensive production from Lillibridge in terms of his OPS stats would not be equal to what the average first baseman who replaces Tex could provide.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

Overlord-Dude,just because YOU don’t see Frenchy or Mac as an option don’t necessarily make it so. Don’t forget we hope to have Schaeffer here next year as well and Heyward in the near future-maybe even Kai’hue. All we really need is someone good enough that they can’t pitch around Chipper. For that matter, KJ may not have the power, but he will get on base enough to garner respect. Quite honestly, a someone with a high OBP and a bit of power could work.

There are options,you just don’t agree with or like them. There are stilloptions, regardless.

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 19, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

DOB - You mean Hank Aaron didn’t report to camp today as a non-roster invitee? Dang, I thought that’s why he was around — just another guy in the current “former Braves returning to the team” movement!

By Workinlkeadawg

February 19, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

Tex won’t stay cuz Liberty won’t pay. MARK MY WORDS; Liberty is going to run the Braves entire organization into the ground. I see Cox leaving along with ex-GM JS in disgust and frustration. The Mets are the clones of Stienbrener’s madhouse. Being able to field a team with guys who are loyal to the end are at an end. So do it in 2008 Bravo’s it might be our last chance in a loooong time.

By knowitall

February 19, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

John77, unless I’m mistaken, Chipper is on record saying that he doesn’t want to change positions again. And I think that as long as Bobby is the manager, he won’t be asked to change.

By JohnGTFan

February 19, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Here’s a thought about Tex signing an extension…..WHO CARES

The grapefruit league hasn’t even started yet! Much less the season! Noone knows how the season will play our or what he provides. I’m just hoping ATL gets back to where they belong…NL EAST DIVISION CHAMPS. After that, then speculate all ya like!!!

GO BRAVES!

By Lew

February 19, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

Overlord-Dude,I will say it again. If Tex leaves via free agency, my thought is that the Braves will do a Kotsay like deal to bring in someone temporary until Heyward or Kai’hue are ready. All I ever said was that KJ would be a possible, but unlikely option. Bringing in someone else would likely negate your concerns about cleanup-or not.

One thing is certain. Neither you nor Iwill be consulted.

By Wayne in Utah

February 19, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Work in Ikea Dog

What planet did you come from? Did the Liberty folks come in and totally screw up the Braves organization? Did I miss something?

Sometimes I think folks just want the Braves to fail, for whatever the reason.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

Lew

One thing is certain. Neither you nor Iwill be consulted

I’m not so sure about that. I understand you’re in the inner sanctum where you have Chiiper and Cox’s ear. A belated kudos on that score. Very cool.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Anders-DelGado’s option could well affect that scenario, for sure. My point was the cost of whether resigning (Wagner) or replacing of most of your rotation, first base and an outfield spot,plus arbitration for Maine, is going to be enormous-unless Omar continues going the Tony Armas, Jr. route (God help y’all if THAT occurs). You’re right-Martinez could likely take care of the LF situation. I would also wait until I saw what Sanchez has on his return before I would even consider him an option.

Nonetheless, this promises to be a quite expensive off season of 08 for the Mets. MUCH more so than the Braves have to look forward to.

By Shaun

February 19, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

To be fair to Mr. Sheehan, let’s look at Yunel in detail.

Here are his minor league totals:

.294 AVG/.367 OBP/.411 SLG, 92 BB/137 SO in 223 G, 836 AB in 3 seasons ages 22-24.

Escobar wasn’t a very disciplined hitter and didn’t have much power. Yes, he was young but all not that young for the levels at which he played and for a would-be major league star. We’d expect a guy who is would-be major league star to have a little more discipline and power and possibly hit for a higher average as a 22-24 year old progressing through the minors.

But it’s tricky with any Cuban player because he did not go through the same systems that American players go through—high school and possibly college. Plus we don’t know how the move to the US affected him. He did show more discipline in ‘06 and ‘07.

I think it’s understandable that Sheehan would make those assumptions about Escobar this coming season but he’s a tricky player to evaluate. And I think he’s jumping the gun a little.

By MGL

February 19, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

JohnGTFan I agree, more important things to discuss, and the Chipper to first idea has been floated ad nauseum before.

More importantly, with Hank Aaron in town, wonder if he would try out for the bench. Certainly would add that veteran presence.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

Wayne

Sometimes I think folks just want the Braves to fail, for whatever the reason.

Naah, too easy - nevermind.

By Aaron

February 19, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

As much as all of us love Mark Texeira on this team, this year will be his last. Scott Boras is the antichrist of the MLB and is determined to get his client $20 million per year. That contract could be offered by any team, good or bad. If Frank Wren wants him back, it will be much easier with Mike Hampton’s awesome $15 million contract off the books. Don’t let Tex go to Baltimore.

By Barrett

February 19, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

Lew I totally agree. Not every team needs a big, power hitting first baseman. With all the firepower that this team could have next year, assuming that the players make all the right adjustments, a good OBP decent power guy would work.

To me, power does not make a first baseman. Will Clark and Mark Grace did not have tons of power but both were really good first basemen. The braves could benefit from something like that statistically and economically. We don’t need a lineup that can produce seven 20 HR guys.

By Jeff R

February 19, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

The reality is that Scott Boras is going to expect a big payday for Tex. He’s a very successful agent for a reason. And the fact is that if the Yankees choose, they’ll tender an offer that trumps anything the Braves offer. Too, NYC is the nation’s media Mecca. If it’s all about money for Tex, promo money in NYC is second to none. The Braves simply won’t be able to compete on that level.

On the other hand, Tex has got to want to play in NYC. It’s a different world - more spotlight, more pressure. He’s got to ask himself if that’s what he wants for the next X years.

If not, Atlanta will be in play. But I wouldn’t put any bets on it right now.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Lew

We’re all in the same boat. The better your guys play the more the team has to pay. The only difference is the upper threshholds of payroll by team ( A big difference to be sure). But once your team is at this threshhlod it becomes a juggling act - even for the Mets I agree. I think with a new park opening up in 2009 the Mets will spend what it takes to put a top flight NL product on the field. They won’t Yankee spend but if they need another $15 mil - they’ll do it rather than have Aaron Heilman closing games for example.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

Don’t let Tex go to Baltimore

Somewhere Tex just got a shiver down his spine and has no idea why.

By Wayne in Utah

February 19, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

Anders Dig a little deeper. Yes, lots of folks want the Braves to fail (Mets fans, those who have grown tired of “America’s Team” over the years). I understand all that.

What I was responding to was some blogger who seemed to want Arthur Blank to buy the team, and when he didn’t, was “dreaming up” a scenario that is not happening, of Liberty media ticking off most of the current organizational structure, to a point of them all just leaving.

Dig a little deeper. I know it’s hard, but you should still try!

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

Anders

I simply don’t see the Yanks getting outbid for Tex. That is why they will get him.

Overlord

We’ll find a cleanup hitter if Tex leaves. We always make it work.

By ncscoots

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

Shaun, that’s a nice try, but you merely underscore the LACK of analysis by Sheehan.

Minor league players seldom develop on a straight path. Each year of a player’s minor league career has to be taken in context, instead of summatively, and his tools-to-skills conversion evaluated at the moment…not based on two years earlier.

Escobar’s lost year in AA is a prime example of a year putting a big dent in a player’s career numbers, but having zero relevance to his AAA year (and subsequent ML appearance). Would you say that Escobar (or Tulowitzki or any other 2-yr ML player) has no more upside than his high A and AA numbers portend? Players change, they mature, they grow into their bodies and their heads, and they begin to turn tools into skills.

Or they don’t, in which case there is no discussion on that player, LOL.

But, in the last word, Sheehan doesn’t deserve “fairness”, only ridicule for his laissez-faire analysis. A little more effort forward of a glance at career minor league numbers might have given him a different perspective.

By Duke

February 19, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

Lew I totally agree. The point I was trying to make was that Kelly wasnt going anywhere unless he doesnt ever develop into a good defensive second baseman. Thats why I said I saw him as trade bait down the line. Sorry if you misunderstood me but im a huge Kelly fan and dont want to see anyone but him there.

By MGL

February 19, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

Anders - we are not even in the same ocean, nevermind the same boat. Your dear Mets franchise is stuck with having to increase payroll to pay the exorbitant demands of free agents or marquee players as they have no choice since they have decimated the farm system.

By hop

February 19, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

TEX IS LONG GONE AFTER THIS YEAR. He will get top dollar and the braves will pull out as always! the other reason for his departure involves the age of the braves!

they are an old team with glavine, smotz and,chipper short timers.

the braves will be a typical small market team like pittsburgh, cincy,minnesota to few a few.

we will have two triple teams in the atl from which to choice from.

what an exciting choice we have and so much to look forward too.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

DAP Jeff as our next cleanup? we could start talking about that when he hits more than 30. He does not has the discipline to be cleanup. Brian has not shown he is durable, so it would be a little risky. And he power number are not convincing.

Braves cant continue trying everybody but the pitcher as their cleanup hitter. ABSURD!!! It is as important as your #3 and maybe more than your leadoff. As long as they keep experimenting theyll keep finishing 3rd. Maybe if if cleanup was the only question mark i would agree to go and experiment. But when you have lots of question mark you dont treat your #4 as if it was not that important.

By N8

February 19, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

I just finally watched the video clip on youtube with the prank that Bret Myers pulled on Kyle Hendrick.

Pretty damn funny, if you ask me.

Good stuff indeed.

By Wayne in Utah

February 19, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

hop: Tex might be long gone after this year, but it won’t be because of the age of Chipper Jones, John Smoltz or Tom Glavine. It will be because of his agents greed, and his lack of being a viable option for a mid-market team.

And, no, we will NOT have two AAA teams in Atlanta. Atlanta will continue to be a fiscally responsible team. Some folks are never happy.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

Efrim why go waste time looking for something you already have here? They will regret it as much as they have with maddux, glavine, etc. The team is complete. This is the RIGHT TIME to spend the money on 1 player, cause he is the difference. The rest of the team is cheap. Why not pay a guy that is worth every penny? Problem is they have to pay jeff good money, which will be covered with glavines departure.

By Wayne in Utah

February 19, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Overlord Who are our question marks in the lineup??

Kotsay/Schafer?? maybe

Diaz/BJones??? maybe

Who else?? I didn’t get your last point?

Definitely Hoss, Frenchy and McCann are NOT question marks. I think we saw enough of KJ and Escobar to have a pretty good idea of what we would get out of them.

We are talking about what to do with first base and clean up in 2009. A lot can happen in a year.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

Overlord

I can understand why you feel like we need to resign Teixeira, I really do. But understand that we are going to have several needs in upcoming seasons. Mainly, starting pitching. Investing 20 million dollars a year on one player isn’t a wise decision in my mind. Not for the Braves.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

I agree Wayne, but i wouldnt be so sure that TEX is already gone until i see it. and its not just faith. He like it in atlanta. Its not like 15 million a year is a bad salary. It depends on what you want out of life and every person is different. Maybe TEX he will be happy enough staying here even if the braves dont give him 20 or more. Smolts is not a braves produst (farm) but he is a true braves. Glavine is a product of the farm and he ran away. Renteria was traded, but i bet if it was the case and yankees offered him 15m and braves 9, he would have taken braves offer. We will just have to wait and see. We could have our christmas gift by august.

By Braveheart

February 19, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

This is the RIGHT TIME to spend the money on 1 player, cause he is the difference. The rest of the team is cheap. Why not pay a guy that is worth every penny?

Overlord, the problem is that now may be the right time but 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 years from now will not be the right time to have all that money tied in to one player in decline.

By BT

February 19, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand why anyone deals with the Devil (Boras). Braves shouldn’t sign anyone that has Boras as his agent. How many of our other players have the Devil as their “man?”

By mo in the boonies

February 19, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Lew Just wanted to let you know I got the print of Smoltz today. Looks great! Thanks a lot!

Robert(CITB) I agree completely with you on the Clements argument.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Anders-To a point, but not really. There is a major difference between the Braves and Mets and I’m not talking $$$ here-at least not directly.

The Braves have a 2B who is not FA eligible for several more years, a SS who is not even arbitration eligible for two more. Their catcher si locked up long term at a reasonable rate and their right fielder si about to be as well. Chipper si locked in through next season ands would likely (he already has a couple times)sign reasonably for as long as he wants to play. They will have a leftfielder (Brandon Jnes) a Center fielder (Schaeffer) and a OF-1B (Heyward), who will not see arbitration for years. Smoltz is also in a situation like Chipper where he will be signed reasonably for as long as he chooses.

THwere is a stream ofpitchers coming up fromthe minors-no arbitration THEE for years. Jurrjens is not arb. eligible for years and Chuck James not until next.

The Mets have Reyes, Wright and Santanalocked up long term. That is pretty much it.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

Even if Tex does leave-we have the $12.5 mil he receives this year, $8mil from Hampton’s departure, $8mil from Glavine’s departure. That right there is almost $29 million. If that is not enough to plug gaps at first and get some more pitching,then there is little hope-especially when combined with all the talent we have in the minors for trade potential.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

In our lineup? none, maybe kotsay, thats why i say the team is complete. and its the right moment to spend money in tex. Question marks are all in the pitching staff, which happens to be half of our team.

Smoltzs arm and age

Glavines age

Hamptons arm

James ????????

JJJ?????

JOJO????

Bennett???

Gonzalez comeback

Soriano as closer

There is a thin line between total failure and complete domination in this pitching staff. We could lead the league in ERA (even below 3.00) or we could have a year worse than last year.

As i said before, you just dont start dragging everybody into the cleanup spot just to see who looks better. Cleanup hitters have it written on their forehead just as leadoff hitters do.

We have neither if TEX leaves. We will have tons of great 2,3,5,6,7 and 8 hitters, that for sure.

By Jeff R

February 19, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

I’d much rather management plow whatever they’d pay Tex into pitching, but managament will make a serious run for Tex. They gave up some potential top talent to obtain him, so they’ll make a serious bid.

By Lew

February 19, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

Anders-Don’t ever say I never cut youslack, Dude. I’m going to let David’s last comment about you pass. Just consider THAT your award. Not A Wurlitzer, but you’ll have to make do.

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 19, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

hop: they are an old team with glavine, smotz and,chipper short timers.

You left out Mike Hampton, who is only 5 months younger than Chipper. Both will be turning 36 this year — that’s old? It’s not young, but it ain’t old yet, either.

They are an old club? You’re kidding, right? Here’s a list of players on the 40-man that are 30 or younger (not sure if it’ll be a list or all one block of text, so I’ll bold every other one)

Manny Acosta Jeff Bennett Blaine Boyer Buddy Carlyle (30) Jairo Cuevas Mike Gonzalez (30 in May) Chuck James Jair Jurrjens Anthony Lerew Charlie Morton Peter Moylan (30 in December) Will Ohman (30) Chris Resop Jo-Jo Reyes Jeff Ridgway Royce Ring Zach Schreiber Rafael Soriano Phil Stockman Tyler Yates (30) Brian McCann Brayan Pena Clint Sammons Yunel Escobar Omar Infante Kelly Johnson Martin Prado Mark Teixeira Scott Thorman Josh Anderson Gregor Blanco Matt Diaz (30 in March) Jeff Francoeur Brandon Jones

That’s 34 players on the 40-man roster who are 30 or under, which leaves the following players as 31 or older:

Tom Glavine (42 in March) Mike Hampton (36 in September) Tim Hudson (33 in July) John Smoltz (41 in May) Chipper Jones (36 in April) Mark Kotsay (33 in December)

Phew, man, that is one old club.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

OK, i agree with you guys (partially), we dont have the money (or do we???), lets say we let TEX go. We are back to the times when everybody had a shot at #4. Jeff has the potential, but thats all it is, potential. So we go back to situations like CHUCK JAMES. Lots of potential, nothing to show for it. Same for Langerhans, everybody talked good about him, he is loooooooong gone. Same for betemit, ive never seen him get where people said he would.

Future is uncertain for 99.99999% of things, that include jeff as cleanup.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

You think TEX would not take the money is being used with glavine and hampton?

Will the braves resign hampton if he comes up strong (30 starts, 200+IP, 15-8, 150+K) and takes same money or less for 1 or 2 years?

By OrlandoFan

February 19, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

Gosh I’m glad they play the games. The moves on paper here make my head spin (and shake). It’s like we have to create scenarios of what might be next month, next year, next decade rather than seeing how things are going this year and commenting on that. Let’s hope everyone stays healthy. That would be the one greatest asset this team could have. Because its talent would take care of everything else.

By Wayne in Utah

February 19, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

Overlord: I think what many are saying is that while we would love to have Tex, we would rather not blow too much money on one player, in lieu of not being able to improve in other areas.

Uncertainty is not 99.99999% of things. I would beg to differ. While I would say many things are uncertain, many are predictable. Yes, it is 99.9999% uncertain if Hoss will hit exactly 327, with 34 HR’s and 115 RBI’s in 149 games played. Get my point.

But, with a measure of certainty, if he does not fall to the injury bug, he WILL lead the team in many categories, to include leadership and professionalism.

So, lets just say that if we do not have a rash of injuries to guys who seemingly have been healthy, we would then only need 1/2 of those on the mend to be back to their normal selves, for us to be successful in 2008. Is that not too much of a stretch.

So, even though it is somebody else’s money, I agree with Efrim that I would rather not go too high, for fear of having another “Hamptonesque” salary to contend with in 6-7 years. Look at the Rockies and Todd Helton.

Well, you guys have about worn this poor southern boy out today, with all the “early spring” what-ifs.

Have a great rest of the evening. I will check back in later on….

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

OrlandoFan I dont see wheres the sickness of talking baseball while we wait for the real thing? It is fun, i dont see anybody crying or fighting, just good, clear, crisp, interesting braves blogging.

By mr baseball

February 19, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Everybody who has speculated about who will play 1B for the Braves next season after Tex signs for big bucks elsewhere gets an F in Braves history. Chipper is not moving to 1B, neither is KJ nor Diaz. Thorman sure ain’t the answer.

The Braves do not believe in developing first baseman. Since ‘91 they have produced exactly 1 (one) major league first baseman, and they couldn’t wait to get rid of him.

Sid Bream. Fred McGriff. Andres Gallaraga. The horrors of Eico Brogna & the all-Franco platoon. Tex.

Get the picture.

If Glavine retires and Tex bolts for big bucks, the Braves will have at least $35 million coming off this year’s payroll (they’re paying Hampton $15 million no matter how they try to disguise that fact).

I think they can find a pretty good 1B with all that $$$$$ and have at least $25 million left over. Why you folks want to waste your time speculating about things that positively, absolutely are not going to happen is beyond me, but to each his own, I guess.

Who knows, the Braves might even pull the shocker of the year and pony up $18-20 mil a season and re-sign him. That’s only a $7.5 million increase, which is less than what they’re paying Glavine and half as much as Hampton’s going to get for possibly missing a third straight season. They could afford it, but doubtful that they will agree to.

Here’s an idea. Let’s send Gonzalez back to the Pirates for LaRoche.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

There is your big IF Wayne

I agree, we shouldnt go high (22-25) but 18 would be just fine with me. We paid 16 to chipper in 2004 and 14 to maddux in 2003.

TEX made 9m last year, wouldnt doubling be enough?

By OrlandoFan

February 19, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

Overford: I’m cool with it. I find it amusing. It’s fun to read a lot of the posts. Some are out of left field (some of mine are), but it’s fun. But it makes me smile to know that we are discussing the 2010 lineup when the first game of spring 2008 is still 2 weeks nigh.

By GSU-Lee

February 19, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

DOB and Bloggers, I had a funny comment to share with you guys. Apparently my dad read the blog the other day and someone had written something about liking Barack Obama and Spring Training because they both bring hope. My dad had something to this effect to say: “Barack? Hope?!?!? Obama is all fluff and no tough. He is full of empty promises and shallow dreams-unlike spring training. Saying spring training is like Obama is like saying spring training is rounding third base with Scarlett Johannson (spelling?) and then waking up!”

By Jeff R

February 19, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

The other thing about the Tex talk. He’s definitely an upper tier first baseman, but if the Braves pitching doesn’t come through, he can hit up a storm and it won’t make a difference.

The Braves will make a play to sign Tex long term; they gave up too much talent to walk away (talent that I believe would have been better used to secure solid pitching, young or established). Regardless, they’ll make a healthy offer to Tex. Frankly, if he doesn’t accept that may be of greater benefit to the team, in that it’ll free up money, as others have mentioned.

Like it or not, two thirds of the starting rotation is living on borrowed time: Glavine and Smoltz. The Braves will need to replace those guys, perhaps sooner rather than later. Since the farm system isn’t producing blue chip pitching talent right now, the dollars will help secure arms elsewhere.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Mr Baseball

I have heard 8 million for Hampton. I believe that is how it reads for this seasons payroll.

Along with the raises that are going to come to arbitration eligible guys like Francouer, Kelly Johnson, Matt Diaz and Mike Gonzalez, it might be a little different than you think. I really think that we will only have something like 20 million to play with this offseason, if payroll doesn’t increase.

DOB

Am I wrong in that assumption? There has been some confusion, which may be on my part, regarding Hampton’s salary this season.

By Wayne in Utah

February 19, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

Overlord Doubling Tex’ salary, I don’t think is going to do it. He!!, Andruw got 18 million from the Dodgers for 2 years after totally stinking it up in his walk year. Nah, I don’t think doubling from 2007 will do it.

mr baseball You make some good points. But, I suspect Lillibridge is going to make folks forget about first basemen. While it is true that we have had a revolving door at first, and while our luck has been anywhere from great (Tex, CrimeDog, Galarraga, etc) to terrible (Brogna and the Scott Thorman try), it is still true that first base is one of the easiest positions to fill, in general.

Also, I don’t think 20 million will do it for Tex. I wouldn’t want to spend more than that, unless we get a big salary bump from Liberty. We need to sign some youngsters, re-up Hoss, and mend our aging rotation.

And yes, it is 9 million that the Braves have accounted for Hampton’s salary for this year. They put the other 6 million under a mattress in previous years (accounting wise) so that they could count on a steady salary output for him over the past few years. So, NO they will not have 15 million more to spend.

What is so hard to understand about that with some folks???

By Wayne in Utah

February 19, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

I can hear it now, this time next year. “We sent all those great prospects over to Texas and what do we have to show for it.” Even if we make it to the big dance in October, I suspect we will still hear it. It is soooo easy to second guess from the comfort of your keyboard.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

Overlord

Tex isn’t signing for 18 million per year. I would be absolutely shocked if that happened. I think 22 million is a good starting point. Boras is going to compare him to ARod. Now, he isn’t as good as Alex Rodriguez, but ARod makes 30 million a season. He will make at least 22 per year. I think that is far too much to allocate to one player on a team. Especially if that team only spends 90 million on player contracts.

By Wayne in Utah

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

Jeff R Do you remember last July, when we tried to get some pitching for Salty and our other prospects. No big name, decent mid to top of the rotation guys were available then. AND, the ones that were available were WAY over priced.

JS could have run for the hills, and just give up on the season, or do what he did.

Some would say that he should have just taken the hit in 2007, but that is not the way he has ever played it. He always does whatever he can, within his abilities, to give BC and the coaching staff a shot at the pennant. It hasn’t worked out a time or two, and it has on other ocassions. You can’t change a tigers spots, no matter how bad you want to.

By Overlord

February 19, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

OK Efrim&Wayne&Co. you win, LOL, TEX will be a met next year.

But if he is in braves uni in 2009 youll hear from me, hehehe.

Strange things can happen.

By Ben

February 19, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

To me, Tex’s statements to DOB translates to: “I’m not going to give the Braves any special consideration, unless something truly magical happens this year. As of now, I plan on signing with the team that offers me the most.”

I don’t think this bodes well for us Bravos fans. It’s ridiculous to think Tex will take anything less than $20M/yr, and I could definitely see him getting a 5 or 6 year deal worth $110-140M. Teams were definitely hesitant this offseason to shell out the dollars, but we had a really weak FA market this offseason. Teixeira is so enticing - gold glove 1B, top notch cleanup hitter, good guy, not a big injury history. And he’s only 28 years old in April.

It’ll be interesting to see if the Yanks make a serious play at him. I don’t know what contracts are expiring for them, but Cashman said he wants to reign in their payroll over the upcoming years. Mets are likely to go after him if Delgado doesn’t resurrect himself this year (though a NYTimes article today was pretty optimistic about him making a comeback…he worked on his swing all winter apparently). And while lots of other teams could probably use an impact bat at 1B (Nationals come to mind immediately, though they love Nick Johnson, who’s signed through 09), the trend is not to shell out multi-year contracts for position players.

It’d be interesting if the Braves offered Tex something like 5 years, 100M, and no other team offered him more than 3 years, but promised him $70-80M. I assume he’d pull an Andruw and go with the shorter contract so he can then sign another. But maybe he’d prefer to go with the sure thing. I could see the Braves making him an offer heavily backloaded so that they’re paying him the most once Chip and Smoltz are gone. But to do that they’d have to offer him at least 4 years, more likely 5.

What do y’all think of all that?

By james

February 19, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

DOB, how does Jordan Schaffer look?

By rammerjammer

February 19, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

At 3:17, DOB said this: “Don’t know that I’m ready to make odds on Teixeira signing, but I will say there are far, far better odds of Francoeur signing an extension, and far sooner. I think that could get done in the next couple of weeks.”

When DOB makes that kind of prediction, you can bet it’s gonna happen. Shoot, it may have already happened and they’re just waiting for the right time to announce it.

It will also mean, in my opinion, that Tex is NOT in the long-range plans.

By Nelson

February 19, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

The players are there, focused in the same goal “win the Division”, there is a lot of enthusiasm. I believe we need another starter, but Wren is right there are 4 o 5 candidates for two positions in the rotation, no other team has that luxury, we need the young talent to step on and a little help from God to give us some luck. Go Braves!

By Wayne in Utah

February 19, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this

Overlord Hey, if he signs with us, then I will shout from the top of the highest ant hill that you were right, and I was wrong! :-)

Actually, my money says if Tex doesn’t stay in Atlanta, then he goes to the Yankees or the Orioles. I think the Mets will be outbid.

Hey, I played a pretty mean first when I was younger, maybe I have a shot!! But then again, I was certainly not a power hitter. I would have to bat 9th.

We have way too much talent coming up in the next two-three years to spend too much on one player.

By TennesseePaul

February 19, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

For all those who keep pointing to the large sums of cash, or should I say, many millions more that the Braves will have next off-season when Glavine, Hampton and Tex retire or sign elsewhere here is a look at what will be available:

First Basemen
Rich Aurilia SF
Ben Broussard TEX
Carlos Delgado () NYM
Nomar Garciaparra LAD
Jason Giambi () NYY
Wes Helms PHI
Kevin Millar BAL
Richie Sexson SEA
Mark Teixeira ATL
Frank Thomas () TOR
Jim Thome CWS
Daryle Ward CHC
() = Option year for 2009.

Starting Pitchers
Kris Bensen BAL
A.J. Burnett TOR (may opt out)
Paul Byrd CLE
Jon Garland LAA
Tom Glavine ATL
Mike Hampton () ATL
Rich Harden () OAK
Orlando Hernandez NYM
Jason Jennings TEX
Randy Johnson ARZ
John Lackey () LAA
Esteban Loaiza OAK
Braden Looper STL
Derek Lowe LAD
Pedro Martinez NYM
Matt Morris () PIT
Mike Mussina NYY
Jamie Moyer PHI
Mark Mulder () STL
Carl Pavano NYY
Brad Penny () LAD
Odalis Perez KC
Oliver Perez NYM
Andy Pettitte NYY
Mark Prior SD
Horatio Ramirez SEA
C.C. Sabathia CLE
Ben Sheets MIL
John Smoltz () ATL
Julian Tavarez BOS
Steve Trachsel BAL
Brett Tomko KC
Claudio Vargas MIL
Woody Williams HOU
Randy Wolf SD
() = Option year for 2009.

The good ones that are young have a long injury history. The other good ones are old and some of those have a long injury history. The rest aren’t that exciting.

Now just salivate over all the ways the Braves could spend those many millions more on that list to shore up the team… or salivate on position changes for current players. Which ever. This offseason would have been a prime time to secure a solid veteran front line starter for future years.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

Overlord and Wayne

Tex will be wearing Yankee pinstripes in 2009. They have the most money and the biggest need for him.

By BigKuntry86

February 19, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

Man this is driving me crazy we HAVE to sign him longterm. Or else this trade was a waste for the braves for what we gave up for nothing but a 3rd place finish and whatever happens this season which I think will be a very interesting season though. This however should be Frank Wren’s biggest priority number 1 in signing Tex longterm! Go Bravos!

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

Efrim, now that you’ve established and told us where Tex will be next season, can you pick up the skipping needle and put it on a new song? Because this one from you has gotten borrrrrring.

By David O'Brien

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

James, how does Schafer look? Like a young guy who’s on the smallish side for major leaguers, but in very good shape.

Other than that, can’t tell you, since he just reported today and position players weren’t allowed to take part in the on-field workout (until tomorrow).

I’m sure he hit out in the batting cage, but I was watching pitchers throw batting practice on the field. I talked to him a few minutes. He’s excited to be here, etc.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

Lew

Anders-Don’t ever say I never cut youslack, Dude. I’m going to let David’s last comment about you pass. Just consider THAT your award. Not A Wurlitzer, but you’ll have to make do.

Did I miss something? What is this about?

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this

Oh, and Efrim, I’m getting past tired of answering the question about Hampton’s salary. It’s $15 mill this season, but goes on Braves’ accounting books as just over $8 mill, the amortized amount per year of their six-year commitment to him.

That’s it. Cut it, paste it in a file, write it in pen on your forehead, but don’t ever ask me again.

By Steve McP

February 19, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

Overlord - why the ???? on Soriano? Did you see Braveheart’s breakdown on his pitching versus other top guys in close and late situations on the last blog -

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

I had queried that Soriano’s numbers were skewed because of his lacklustre performances when nothing was on the line, and these figures bear out that when the game is on the line he is as effective as any of these guys.

By Metropolitan Man

February 19, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

When a guy like Tex is quiet on contract talk it doesnt bode well for the braves but it doenst seal the deal with another team also. I’m leaning on your success in 08 to be his deciding factor. If the braves miss the playoffs or make it and do the usual choke job, he may stay thinking you guys are 1 or 2 pieces away from the glory days. Then you might finish 3rd or lower (3peat), and he will realize he should have never stepped foot in Atlanta. He could have actuAlly helped a team be successful elsewherewho was just needing an offensive boost. Not being able to keep both Jones and a Tex will be the braves undoing as far as offense goes. Welcome to a full season of the NL Tex, hope you realize what you read about the braves in the past is just that……past news. New era, new winners, new players!!!!

LETS GO METS

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

DOB

Sorry man. The convo kept going on and on and on. No Braves fan wants to hear that stuff anyways, but I can’t hear people say Tex is signing for below market value to stay in ATL. I think 18 per year is below market for his services.

Switching to another subject or something for you to answer, if you please: What is the word on Tyler Flowers? Have you heard anything on him while you have been down there? He was ranked #12 in Baseball America’s Braves prospect list. Heard any Braves official talk about the kid?

By William

February 19, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

**By Lew

February 19, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Efrim-I hear what you’re saying about KJ’s upside and I agree with your assessment of him.

However, as to Frenchy-Dude,he is quite possibly the most devastating threat in the NL with two out and runners in scoring position. When the situation calls for an RBI guy, I would never quibble about having Frenchy up at bat. NEVER. He’s as close to a guarantee as Albert Pujols in those situations. He’s done it for two successive years, too.**

Lew. I totally agree with you. With the game on the line I want either Frenchy or Chipper at the plate hands down. I don’t really understand the comparison between KJ and Jeff. They are two totally different hitters. I like KJ and I think he is a great hitter, but frankly he drives me nuts at times, because he take ALOT of good pitches. Granted his job as a leadoff hitter is to see as many pitches as possible and get on base. It seamed to me that he had a bunch of K’s looking last year. Many times with guys in scoring position.

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

I should add, Tex made a point today of saying that he’s his own man and makes his own decisions, doesn’t have to have his agent make them for him.

In other words, he’s not just going to go soemwhere because Boras tells him he should go. And he also made a point that whatever differences Boras might have had with any team or any team’s GM in the past, it means nothing in his (Teixeira’s) case. Make of that what you want, but he wanted to be sure we knew that.

To the person who asked why any team deals with Boras: Because he represents more star players than any other agent. Teams like star players. They tend to help you win.

By William

February 19, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this

Heck, lets just be happy we have Tex this year. When the year is over then we can worry about signing him. Geez!!!

By richbrave

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

BRAYAN PENA:

Nice piece on Castro and Cuba man. But just to let you know. Not every Cuban wants to return to their homeland.

And for those of you who read his article, my wife says nothing’s gonna’ bring back the Cuba she knew before 1962 and loved so much. It’s all about living in the present, and loving where you are. For her, America’s where it happening and its staying that way. No visits, no desire for visits.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

DOB

Ease up man. I must of missed it. I think you must of posted that at a time I wasn’t around or didn’t read that blog. I honestly didn’t remember what Hampton’s salary was.

By TennesseePaul

February 19, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

They tend to help you win.

They tend to put butts in the seat and about 10 pounds of junk food in their laps. Sometimes they help you win.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

DOB

I should add, Tex made a point today of saying that he’s his own man and makes his own decisions, doesn’t have to have his agent make them for him.

Not sure if you heard but word has somebody was bored with all this Tex talk. We’ve changed gears to Tyler Flowers. Please try and keep up.

Efrim - Carry on.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

I had no idea Castro was the President of Cuba! Dude is a hellavu back up catcher. Where does he find the time to run a country? David Wright sure - but Castro?

By Barbara Streisand

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

you dont bring me tyler flowers anymore

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

Anders

No negative Tex leaving Braves talk is allowed. I’ll try to follow the blog-master before he yells at me again. Just joking DOB.

By NorthBeach Scott

February 19, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

Some posters have alluded to the significant discount that they feel players should take (i.e. Tex) to play in ATL vs NY, because of the lower cost of living in ATL.

Although there is certainly a lower cost on many things, there is a significant quality of life plus of living in New York on a terrfic salary. Imagine being able to expose your family to the culture and people that for many folks is a big advantage to living in ATL.

I am originally from Atlanta (and returned in the last 15 months), but have had the good fortune to live around the country and recognize the benefits that a big city can offer. Atlanta is a fine place to live and is a good value, but at the salaries of a MLB player NY, LA and SF would be high on the list all other factors being equal.

By William

February 19, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

No negative Tex leaving Braves talk is allowed. I’ll try to follow the blog-master before he yells at me again. Just joking DOB.

Freedom of speech should only be allowed if you don’t say something stupid.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

Northbeach

Although there is certainly a lower cost on many things, there is a significant quality of life plus of living in New York on a terrfic salary. Imagine being able to expose your family to the culture and people that for many folks is a big advantage to living in ATL.

Dat’s all I’m sayin!

By Anders

February 19, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

William

Freedom of speech should only be allowed if you don’t say something stupid.

First time here? I mean the blog would be blank under your rule.

By BT

February 19, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I agree that Boras does represent a large percentage of star players but does working with him ever work out for the team? It appears that the team always overpays, and when the contract runs out the player opts out. I am not disagreeing with you, I realize that Boras is a fact of life but it seems like playing with dynamite. JS didn’t get along with him but hopefully FW can “play the game” since it seems to be a necessity.

By ScottBravesfan

February 19, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

So Atlanta isn’t a big city anymore? In five years it will be a top five TV market behind New York, LA, Chicago, and Dallas.

And to DOB man the new White Stripes CD is brilliant, sucks you don’t like it but it’s been getting so many spins in my player lately. Just awesome guitar work.

Also did you get tickets to Radiohead at Lakewood?

By Lew

February 19, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

Anders-Never mind. I was referring to a post that has since been deleted.

Mo-Glad it got there and that you’re pleased with it.

By Baron

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

Have not perused the comments for quite awhile, thanks in advance for your warm welcome back.

You may have seen this already, but if not, posted as a chuckle, this insightful… uh, insight, on the Bravos via Sports Ill:

SI Spring Training Preview

I am personally amused by the “NRI to watch” nominee Joe Borchard. Can’t find any other source that confirms Joe B actually in camp. Maybe ‘cause no one else cares? Seriously, are they that unaware of Matt “The Bat” Diaz?

Similarly, y’all’ll be startled and chastened to learn the FACT that “Escobar is a utility infielder who happened to have a peak season for batting average.”

And then, this: “A team with a lineup core of… (all our awesome bats) …should be able to compete with anyone. That they’re trying to do it with…(alleged holes in the field) …and in the bullpen is a shame.” (Italics mine).

Again, seriously? The Braves bullpen has holes? Sweetheart, in the leaky boat world that is an MLB bullpen the Braves are rocking in an effing Boston Whaler, am I right? It could be sawed in half and still float.

It’s as if SI didn’t know this Atlanta Braves team from the Cleveland Indians. What can you expect, I guess, from an article that’s too embarrassed to even to attribute itself to a person.

Looking forward to a successful return to the top of the (sh**)heap, otherwise known as the mutts, fish, fillies and nats.

BARON COMMENCES CHOP. EXITS.

By Yars

February 19, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

I love all these, ‘KJ should move to 1B one day’ posts. Now that’s comedy. Hell man, maybe next season, Hoss will move back to LF, & maybe, just maybe, McCann will start taking some groundballs at 2B. I hope that KJ is in a Braves uniform for a long time. He’s going to put up some impressive numbers this season. He’s more comfortable with his defense, & he needs not worry about any sort of platoon at 2B. He’s the Braves everyday 2B. I only hope that Bobby sticks him somewhere in the lineup, & keeps him there. I would really like to see him hitting in front of Chipper. Also, those of us who live outside Atlanta & will not be getting Peachtree TV channel, I guess our only other option is MLB Extra Innings. If the games aren’t on SportsSouth or Fox Sports Net, will MLB Extra Innings televise the games that would otherwise be on Peachtree TV? Any help would be appreciated. now playing: Fascination Street by the Cure

By ncscoots

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

Dang, someone must have lifted The Notorious One’s Cohibas, the man is snappin’ a little ‘tude today, LOL. I’ve always said nobody does snarky like DOB does snarky :-).

Well, me, maybe, but that’s for another day. Did Tex sign an extension yet?

By richbrave

February 19, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

TENNESSEE PAUL:

Yours of 7:49 p.m. You can never have enough pitching, right TP? An axiom I picked up somewhere,”there’s no time like the present.” Too bad October to January went by without my big two, Santana and Rowand coming to Atlanta. Oh well, we’ve done well in other areas. Maybe these moves will pan out. I believe there’s going to be a great team in Richmond to start the season.

By Bryan

February 19, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

so, my roommate asked me tonight what savannah fest show i was going to … i said maybe derek truck … he said whose that … i said, you know, the son of butch trucks from the allman brothers bothers… he said whose that …

my jaw dropped.

Get this his girlfriend didn’t know them either … (both from the north - Ohio and Minnesota …

I just burned them a mix an told them from the bottom of my heart, this might be the last time in your life someone burns you a cd of music you have never heard of that the person giving it to you believes this strongly in the quality of the music on a disk…

just thought yall might want to know…

By Baron

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

Braveheart, your 1:59 pm post was excellent and much appreciated. Shuerholz comes off a little dim and peevish, but his conclusion is sound whatever his reasoning. Fact is, player salaries, and any person’s salary in any biz, should be representative of that player/person’s earning power for the organization he works for. For most baseball teams that equates directly to his ability to help the team win. Winning is the most bottom line factor in almost every team’s ability to make money.

Some teams stand outside that matrix; Large market teams have an ability to sell seats (and more to the point, merchandise) to a larger market, and thus have an incentive to pay money to players that goes beyond the player’s ‘on field’ value, or his ability to help the team win games. Who could argue that everything else being equal, what results in more wins: ARod for 30 mill plus Joe Borchard for 400 K, or Chipper for 14 mill plus Tex for 12.5 mill? Less money, more wins.

By car3boogie

February 19, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

DOB like the Hank Jr. attitude

“Teams like star players. They tend to help you win.”

You REKON… even a Red Neck Country Boy can figure that one out.

By Baron

February 19, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

DOB, must say, your 3:15 pm post warms my heart. Frenchy for 4-8 mill over the next 6 years versus Tex for 18-23 over the same? Priceless.

And oh, yeah, “tell ‘em Raul sent ya. Yeah, Raul.”

By Roman Gal

February 19, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

I’ve been gone all day, so I read up on the blog…one thing: It’s Jordan Schafer…not Schaeffer or Schaffer. Okay…just thought I’d throw that out there. Also, I can tell whoever asked about him that he is in VERY good shape. He is definately not scrawny. :)

DOB, I know that the “Chipper to 1st base” idea has been floating around for LONG time…but didn’t you say last year that playing 1st base is rougher on a players feet than 3rd? I dunno, maybe I dreamed it.

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

Royce Ring has a full beard and looks like actor Scott Caan. Got to credit Bowman for noticing that. Very good call.

Of course, if this Caan wasn’t in the cheese-fest movie Varsity Blues, which Bowman treats as if it were The Godfather, then he wouldn’t know Ring looked like him. But hey, good call nonetheless.

By brian

February 19, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

William -

With Freedom of Speech comes responsibility.

True but kidding in your instance.

Let’s just enjoy Tex while he is here and put our faith in Wrenn hoping for the best.

By Baron

February 19, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

TennPaul, regarding your 7:49 post with player availability on the 2009 free agent market. Not sure who you were responding to there or what their point was, but I like having all that money to sign some of our “in-house” talent to longer term deals. Particularly the home grown. Frenchy and KJ for two. Escobar for maybe a third. After this season, maybe Lillbridge, Anderson, and Blanco, as well.

I like the idea the Twins seem to be riding lately where you buy out your young player’s arbitration and early free agent years by offering them a few (million) ducats above the major league minimum in their pre-arbitration years, perhaps buying some good will by not forcing them to live like college students while their older teammates enjoy the highlife, and also lock them up for 6-10 years.

Bravos seemed to have exercised this theory when they signed McCann, and look at his contract. Over the course of it, do you see him ever being overvalued? Barring career ending injury? Not sure but I think he tops out at roughly 8 mill in 2013, probably about what it would cost you to coax Damon Berryhill out of retirement to serve as back-up catcher at for that season.

One thing we know for sure is that, unlike the real estate market, player salaries never, ever, ever experience a recession, and since the free agent era have seen only bull market gains, collusion in 1987 included.

By john77

February 19, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

DOB I asked about Peachtree TV.Today I got a email from Atlanta and it said Thanks for writing the Braves! We always appreciate receiving feedback, and the Braves know that it is fans like you who continue to make us a successful organization. The Braves are currently working on an official release that will inform fans outside of the metro Atlanta area how they can watch the 45 games that will be airing on Peachtree TV. We appreciate your support and hope you will continue to be a Braves fan for many years to come.Thanks for the news on Tex sounds like he’s ready to WIN IT ALL.

  GO BRAVES

By DAP

February 19, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

overlord i think you misunderstood my post on frenchy batting cleanup. i dont think hes ready for it now, i do think that he will progress enough in ‘08 that he will be considered for the cleanup role in ‘09.

By Robert

February 19, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

“So Atlanta isn’t a big city anymore? “

Atlanta is a big city, but not a cultural center on the order of NY LA or San Fran

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

John77, persistence pays sometimes, huh? Good deal. Glad they finally gave you a response.

All those with questions about PeachtreeTV, see John’s 10:44 p.m. post.

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

Yars, love the post and Fascination Street. R. Smith and the lads made some great music back in the day.

Speaking of tunes, bought two CDs today (on sale for $10 apiece at Virgin), both TERRIFIC: Raveonettes’ new “Lust Lust Lust” (might be their best CD to date) and The Band’s “Best of a Musical History,” which is a one-CD set of 19 songs taken from their six-disc opus “A Musical History.”

It’s got some great live stuff, some early versions of songs, some stuff with The Hawks/Dylan and the Hawks/Ronnie Hawkins, Forever Young with Dylan, etc. Just about a perfect CD for driving down here in Central Fla.

But that Raveonettes’ CD … ooh, that’s tasty. A little like early Sonic Youth.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

Scotbravesfan

So Atlanta isn’t a big city anymore? In five years it will be a top five TV market behind New York, LA, Chicago, and Dallas.

Well maybe Wren can convince Tex to wait 5 years for that big payday? Fingers crossed.

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

Scoots, I’ve actually got a bunch of Cohibas, just haven’t been able to smoke them because a., there’s a $200 fine if you smoke in this damn rental house, and b. I’ve been riding the bike to the ballpark most days this week.

Maybe you’re right, and that’s part of why I was a bit edgy. That and it was quite a busy, eventful day at the ‘yard. But I’m good now, after a little night run through the neighborhood where we’re living. Ready to hit the sack.

Or hit Anders.

By BravesFanChris23

February 19, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

Just curious and for future reference….

Will the Peach Tree TV games be included in the MLB Extra Innings package? Sports South and FSN was last year.

By Anders

February 19, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this

Royce Ring has a full beard and looks like actor Scott Caan. Got to credit Bowman for noticing that. Very good call.

Is anyone else starting to miss Efrim’s Tex rants?

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this

BravesFaninMI, thanks.

By N8

February 19, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this

DOB

“That’s it. Cut it, paste it in a file, write it in pen on your forehead, but don’t ever ask me again.”

WOW. Somebody’s a little touchy today? LOL! Just kidding man.

But it did remind me of when I was 10 years old and a buddy of mine and me drew KISS makeup on our faces with a sharpie. It was a Saturday night.

Needless to say, the rest of the congregation was none too impressed on Sunday morning, when what was left of the sharpie, mixed with red faces (from my mom using a Brillo Pad to scrum SOME of it off), pretty much scared the hell out of every old lady in the church.

(sigh)…..memories.

By Acorn

February 19, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

William

Quiet.

By Swami Dave

February 19, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

One of our contributors wrote a very good article looking at some of the challenges facing Major League Baseball on the cusp of the 2008 season. He looked at MLB from the perspective of the current big-dog among professional sports, the NFL.

Check it out

-Swami Dave

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this

N8, which one of you was Gene Simmons, and did you go all-out and do the fake blood and/or fire-breathing?

By David O'Brien

February 19, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this

Baron, I can confirm to you that Joe Borchard is in camp. And that he’s a huge dude. Legit 6-5 and not skinny whatsoever.

By Paul

February 19, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this

Agents don’t go out and kidnap guys. Players hire agents for a reason. The important thing is the Braves, with Cox leaving, have to be careful that their hard earned reputation as one of the best organizations isn’t tarnished.

Heyward isn’t a first baseman so the arguement is pointless and you need dominant pitching if you don’t hit homers. Tell us one legit clean up hitter who changed teams this off season. The Braves felt that they needed power there that’s why they traded the calibre of prospects that they did.

Without him there’s no chance that they win this season. Want to keep him? Fill the park up. Sitting at home wondering where to find them on TV? If I’m Liberty I’m not paying for that either.

By TennesseePaul

February 19, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this

buy out your young player’s arbitration and early free agent years by offering them a few (million) ducats above the major league minimum in their pre-arbitration years, perhaps buying some good will by not forcing them to live like college students

Yes. I remember those days. Making new friends. Staying up late, craming for test… It was truly awful trying to survive my early 20’s on a $380,000 salary. But you know, I look back on it now and those were good times. I could make $10,000 last for days. I don’t know how I did it. C’est la vie.

Baron: The list of Free Agents was to assist all those speculating or allocating those future many millions on the free agent market next off season. A little red meat.

By Efrim

February 19, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this

N8

I feel like I run into DOB when he gets in those moods. Probably because he dislikes my posts- as many do here because I am negative.

Oh well. Take it easy ya’ll. I’ll see ya come March 30th. I’ll be in D.C. that night. Should be an awesome atmosphere.

Go Braves!!!!

By BayAreaSteve

February 20, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

Very nice, 10Paul, your 11:53. Falling out of my chair laughing in my Canadian Club induced stupor. Don’t forget the $200 or so a day per diem.

Also, another thank you for the Fairfield Echo site. I think that was you.

Scoots, you, sir, are the man. Or the woman. Or the blogger. Consistently strong posts, dude. Shout out to Braveheart, much of the same.

Baron, I think you’re new. Very nice start. Impressive stuff today.

Wayne, in Utah. You, sir, are also an excellent blogger, but hard for me to like with you constantly touting the Jazz. They whacked my Warriors tonight, yet again. They are now my pick to go to the finals from the West. They can play up and down, or half-court, and do either very well.

Sorry, for the ramblings. But, it’s my one post a quarter. Where’s whiskey?

By Anders

February 20, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this

Efrim

Did you get tickets for March 30th? I’m trying to get tickets for 4/22 and 23 when the Mets are in DC but the Nats website says single games aren’t on sale yet.

By N8

February 20, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this

DOB

I was Gene. No fire breathing. But if memory serves, I did use a red marker for the stream of blood trickling down the corner of my mouth. :-)

It was pretty serious. My poor mother.

By Wayne in Utah

February 20, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this

Bay Area Steve Sorry about the whooping. Just finished watching the game with my 15 year old. D-Will is quickly becoming the class point guard of the league. He beats up on Chris Paul every time they play, but CP3 gets all the press.

Hey, I can feel for you, as I was a Warriors fan when Don was there the first time. Run TMC was my boys. I lived in Fairfield for 15 years from 1975-1990. The Giants were always my second favorite team, until they signed BB in the early 90’s.

Again, sorry about that smack down tonight. I agree, we might be the surprise team that could win it all for Jerry S (or J-Slo as he is known by the youngsters here in Utah.)

By Wayne in Utah

February 20, 2008 12:27 AM | Link to this

Efrim Been meaning to talk with you about that negative thing you got going on….

N8 How’s it been? Long time, no arguments!

It is my fault, as I have actually been a bit busy with Life101. Nothing terminal, but lots of little thangs!

My prediction: Chipper does NOT move to first in 2009, Tex plays first in Baltimore in 2009, and I can’t get to first tonight, cause I am out here bloggin’ and not paying any attention to “Ms Wayne in Utah”

:-)

By james

February 20, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this

I had dinner with president Terry Mcguirk tonight. I wont name the club we ate at for both of our privacies but I can confirm that the braves are attempting to lock up franceour and that that is their first priority even over texiera.

By uga-brave

February 20, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this

BRAVEHEART,

when did you turn into a management kind of of guy?

in order to stay competitive in this division you better spend some cash.

hey for all you KOOL-AID drinkers that play strato-matic baseball, the PHILLS pickup of FELIZ and JENKINS is huge.

PEDRO FELIZ WILL HIT 25 dingers and play GREAT DEFENSE ALONG side of rollins.

we all say the phills aint got no pitching. i say they know how to build that team for that ballpark.

get that last at bat.

oh by the way, check out brett myers ERA against the braves.

cole hammels, bret myers, jamie moyer.

not great, but not bad.

here is the difference,

rollins, victorino, utley, howard, burrell, feliz, jenkins, catcher.

i know that their is not one of us that likes playing in that SMALLPARK, ask smoltz he hates it.

the phills are the team to beat, SORRY ANDERS, AND MET MAN.

there was a time that reyes was a STAR still might be. but rollins is MVP and got a hunch that him and VICTORINO WILL STEAL 11O combined.

By BayAreaSteve

February 20, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

Can’t get to first with Ms Wayne in Utah? What does this say about Mrs. Wayne in Utah?

I think I would take your point guard over any in the league, factoring in both ends of the floor. J-Slo, I like it. Can you see Sloan referring to himself like that? Has a certain “homeboy upstairs” quality to it.

By TennesseePaul

February 20, 2008 12:44 AM | Link to this

I had dinner with president Terry Mcguirk tonight

James, did you start the roast with “what the hell? “Many Millions More”? Were you just on a roll with alliteration that day?”

By TennesseePaul

February 20, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this

BayAreaSteve: Yeah that site is nice isn’t it?

Lew: Got home tonight and found a much appreciated parcel waiting for me. Thank you plenty. Looks great! Hope you’re enjoying Spring Training as much as I wish I was.

By Wayne in Utah

February 20, 2008 12:51 AM | Link to this

J-Slo is definitely our “home boy” here in UT. Nah, Ms Wayne and Mrs Wayne, are one in the same, for the past 30.58 years.

uga: phillies will be formidable, probably better than the Mets. I still like our team though. I like Feliz, but Jenkins is a platoon guy. Are they gonna work him in with Werth?

It all will come down to who has the best luck in dodging the injury bug.

Gotta run. Early alarm in the am.

Steve: Where in the Bay Area? I miss northern Kahlee-forn-ya, but not enough to move back.

By uga-brave

February 20, 2008 12:52 AM | Link to this

MR. BASEBALL,

your 6:05 was right on point.

By BayAreaSteve

February 20, 2008 12:59 AM | Link to this

Palo Alto, by way of Santa Clara. Congrats on the 30.58, certainly an achievement in this day and age.

By mr baseball

February 20, 2008 1:02 AM | Link to this

uga-brave:

Good call on the Phillies. With the anmount of runs they’re going to score, they don’t need the league’s best pitching staff. What they have is probably adequate, especially if Benson is at least decent and Lidge chases away whatever demons that have taken residence in his head. They’re a bigger threat than the Mutts.

Efrim: if you’re still around, here’s an alternate take on Hampton’s contract. He will make about $15 mil this year, all of it paid by the Braves. When they acquired him they assumed about $48 mil of his contract over the last 6 years, and the accounting department decided they would credit him with making about $8 mil every year. They only paid him about $5 mil total the first 3 years, but it went in their books at $8 mil per. Now that the Braves are on the hook for the entire thing, they still list him as making $8 mil, even though they’re paying him almost double that. Hope that answers that.

By Wayne in Utah

February 20, 2008 1:08 AM | Link to this

Jazz vs the Warriors on 1320 KFAN in SLC. Rebroadcast. Smokin’ Joe Frasier said something to this effect after whuppin Mohammed Ali the first time. “The tape delay gives folks who lost money the first time, another chance.”

Steve, you wanna put $5 on the game??

:-)

Nite all….. Mama says if I want to make it to 31, I better turn that danged radio off!

By BayAreaSteve

February 20, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this

Uncalled for. But funny.

By uga-brave

February 20, 2008 1:26 AM | Link to this

TENN PAUL,

love your posts. you always have gotten it.

we should not bicker about money. that is not our job.

factor in inflation, and our team is not competeting.

we froze our payroll at $80 mill for a long time.

we traded away a good first baseman because of arbitration.

now i know at the time that we thought, that getting gonzalez was a good deal. heck i agreed, but as for now that invesment has yielded ZERO.

here is my point, if we still would of had LAROCHE, do you think we would of add the AMMO to get HARDEN OR SANTANNA.

we traded away ELVIS, AND SALTY, i just hope we dont get left with nothing.

hindsigt is 20-20. as a g.m. you never know. BUT RIGHT NOW IF YOU DONT KEEP THAT GT FIRST BASEMAN I THINK WE GOT BEAT ON THAT TRADE.

By Wayne in Utah

February 20, 2008 1:51 AM | Link to this

uga (and others) you guys are right. we shouldn’t have to argue about money. But, unless you want to stick your frickin head in the sand, it is about money.

So, it is SOOOOO darned easy to call a trade a bad trade, or say this decision sucks from the comfort of our keyboards, a full year later. Like you said, you liked the trade when we made it. Now, you are going to have the nerve to say it sucked, when last year you just said you agreed????? What does that say about somebody that goes back and changes their opinion on how the story will end, after they see how the first few chapters start.

Come on UGA, be a man. Don’t get caught up in that wo as me crap. We have had a darned good team for a long time. And, you know what, I have to live by a budget, and I suspect you do to. We all can’t be the kids we knew when we were in school who were born with the silver spoon in their mouths.

Listen to yourself. Grow some ba!!s man, and don’t get on that whining, crying “we need to spend some more money” bus. Heck that bus takes you straight north to NYC.

I like where I am, thank you.

(sorry if I seem to be a bit hard tonight, but sometimes I gotta tell the truth, even if it hurts a friend.)

Now, if we want to discuss how we would have done things differently if we were the GM, that’s ok. But realize, we AREN’T the GM. Like 10Paul said (I think it was him), I would have loved to have seen us go after Haren, Bedard, or someone similar to improve and give our staff an infusion of youth. But, it didn’t happen, and dreaming about it and crying about it won’t make it happen. We have a darned good team, that has a legit shot (early opinion, of course) of going all the way this year. We just need to catch a break or two along the way. We are fairly deep, and we are experienced. If we don’t get hit by the injury bug to the wrong guys, we could be playing in late October.

OK, I am off my high horse, and off to bed.

Still friends??

By uga-brave

February 20, 2008 1:57 AM | Link to this

THATS the point stratomatic baseball players the LAROCHE trade was the key.

as for now, WE HAVE got nothing out of it.

we would of never given away our top 3 prospects without it.

MR. BASEBALL, is right i agree. if we dont resign TEX it is a diaster.

now if gonzo’s arm heals and lillibridge adds up i will call it even.

laroche is a .280 25 80 kind of guy with a plus-plus glove.

fact is the pimp named john S. aint made a LOT of great trades lately.

salty, and elvis would of landed any pitcher we wanted.

FACTOR OUT SANTANA, TOO MUCH MONEY.

would we be better with HARDEN?, who i think the A’S would of jumped at, if we offered salty and ELVIS.

OR ARE WE BETTER now and in the future with TEX.

By uga-brave

February 20, 2008 2:07 AM | Link to this

wayne,

ALWAYS FRIENDS PERIOD.

dont know know from shinola, but i always will LOVE debating you.

love your opinion and WILL ALWAYS RESPECT IT.

By Wayne in Utah

February 20, 2008 2:17 AM | Link to this

Make up your mind. Was it a bad trade, or was it a good trade. You gotta decide WHEN it is made. Grading trades years later are for baseball historians.

This is the stuff that keeps me off the blog. No guts. No conviction. No deciding, and staying decided.

You said you liked the LaRoche trade. If we hadn’t pulled the trigger on that trade, you would have been raising holy he!! that we didn’t do enough to strengthen our bullpen. Admit it.

I admit, so far, the trade has not resulted in a plus for the Braves. Will you come back and hail the virtues of JS if Lillibridge turns into another Craig Biggio, or if Gonzo solidifies our bullpen for the next 3 years?

Now that the chips have fallen, and you in an earlier post said you agreed with the trade, now you want to rip up one of the BEST two things that ever happened to our franchise! WOW. JS and BC have both done more than any player we have ever had in building this organization to what it is today, which if you didn’t realize, is the envy of most of baseball.

Hindsight is 20/20, and changing your position on something after you see how the chips fall, puts you in the same boat as most of our politicians.

I’ve had enough tonigh, and I’m outta here….

We can talk later, or not, it really doesn’t matter to me.

By Wayne in Utah

February 20, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this

Just saw your last post, after I ripped you a new one….again.

Come on uga, man up. This second guessing is for the birds.

It is OK to say, so far the trade hasn’t worked out. But don’t rip on it, when you were for it when it happened. Time has a way of evening some things out. Let some time pass, then lets see where we (the Braves) stand.

What did Aaron Tippin say in his song, “Youve got to stand for something, or you’ll fall for anything.” Make your stand, and hold your ground.

I am truly gone now. Way too late, even in the west.

By uga-brave

February 20, 2008 2:28 AM | Link to this

OH BY THE WAY,

was in new smyrna beach for race week. never been much of a RACE FAN but race week is fun. CHIPPERR’s face was on the wall in a restauant we ate in. HE GREW UP IN PIERSON FLA. thats the fern capital of the U.S..

was down there because a couple of sponsors, not mine, really enjoyed it. either way WAYNE, got to meet jimmy johnson, lowes car guy.

i know he is a good driver, but he said he and MARCUS GILES used to be friends.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

February 20, 2008 2:34 AM | Link to this

Frankly , all the talk concerning the contractual status of Mark Teixeira is a distraction.

Let’s play the season and then address the issue of whether or not Tex stays in Atlanta.

By BayAreaSteve

February 20, 2008 2:41 AM | Link to this

Good call, Coach. I don’t see any cirsumstance where he extends or gets traded; it’s a nonissue until the end of the year.

Also, Wayne makes a good point. One’s position on a trade should be made at the time of the trade; no changing after the fact.

By uga-brave

February 20, 2008 2:59 AM | Link to this

WAYNE,

no matter what, i will always respect ur opinion.

sometimes every now and again we make a bad trade?

i think the LAROCHE trade sent the wheels in motion. thorman BASICLLAY WHIFFED AND WE HAD NO CHOICE.

GO for it. heck we had a chance, but guys like chuck james and reyes were not ready.

for that matter i dont believe that chuck james wiil ever be ready.

hope i am wrong about a back to back 11 game winner, but i just dont see it in his makeup.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

February 20, 2008 3:26 AM | Link to this

I like the team. No wait , I REALLY LIKE THIS 2008 Braves squad.

Everyone has become aware of the imposing amount of depth and experience represented by the rotation.

The bullpen is just as deep.

The offense and defense is in good shape.

Ditto for the catching corp and infield. Although , the Braves could use some more depth in that dept.

The bench is still a work in progress.

But , the biggest surprise of 2008 just might be that kid in right field.

It’s hard to call Jeff Francoeur a surprise anymore due to his gold glove , sports illustrated cover etc. etc. etc.

I just think that the vast majority of fans have no idea of the incredible potential possessed by the NATURAL in RF.

Francoeur is a five tool Phenom. Few athletes possess his combination of size , speed , strength , power and raw athletic ability. Jeff is an MVP waiting to happen , he just needs to harness his talent and when it all clicks , God help the rest of the N.L.

2006-2007 saw Brian McCann take some of the spotlight off Francoeur. That will change , just ask McCann who has been regarded as the THE GUY during the formative years of competition between the two of them.

Francoeur was recruited by Clemson primarily as a football player and almost chose to go that route because the Tigers offered him a two-sport athletic scholarship playing both football and baseball.

Look for Frenchy to put it all together sometime this season. And when it happens , believe you me , all of baseball will know it.

By BayAreaSteve

February 20, 2008 3:49 AM | Link to this

Francoeur doesn’t concern me. At worst, he will produce as he has the last two years. I’m more concerned with Escobar, KJ, and Kotsay. I think KJ and Escobar have huge upside, but wonder where they will plateau.

Kotsay needs to have range reasonably near what Andruw provided. I don’t think Diaz and Frenchy have plus range in the corners.

By BayAreaSteve

February 20, 2008 4:06 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Do you read the overnights check: Can you explain the Hampton contract situation? Thanks, Steve

By BayAreaSteve

February 20, 2008 5:00 AM | Link to this

While I’m drunk, and alone, and rambling here, let me take this space to mention two blogs I think worthy of the denizens’ time. I do this trying not to take anything away from this AJC, DOB, MIB blog, which I thoroughly enjoy.

First, bravesandstuff.wordpress.com and second, rookierulesofengagement.blogspot.com, who I think should have the “rookie rules of engagement” more prominently posted.

Both of these sites are from past and present bloggers here, who have a lot of good stuff to read related to our Braves. I’m not sure of the etiquette here; I believe DOB to be fair enough that this is not a problem. The AJC, DOB, MIB blog is always the first destination.

By BayAreaSteve

February 20, 2008 5:55 AM | Link to this

You responsible b******* can really upset a drunkard. I mean, you people are here for my entertainment, and my entertainment only. Wake the ** up. OK, that was sarcasm. As was the Hampton contract question. Where’s whiskey?

By ncscoots

February 20, 2008 6:33 AM | Link to this

BASteve, looks as if you’re a new member of the late-shift denzines here. Wayne (a Clemson alum and a fine, fine human being, LOL) is the guy to see if you have any questions at that time of night :-). He sees all, knows all, even if he is a Jazz fan.

By CharlieAlphaBravo

February 20, 2008 6:54 AM | Link to this

Bowman: Varsity Blues? Really?? Iee downt wawnt… Yer laaf. You want a high school football movie? Friday Night Lights, my friend… Friday Night Lights.

By David O'Brien

February 20, 2008 6:59 AM | Link to this

Hope you had some good music to help get you through that interesting night, BayAreaSteve….

Funny stuff.

And remember, as the good Doctor said, “When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro.”

By David O'Brien

February 20, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this

ScottBravesFan, I should clarify on Stripes CD. You’re right: phenomenal guitar work. And you know, there’s a bunch of songs on it that stand up with their very best. It’s just that they’ve never been quite so annoying as on a few tunes on this CD.

If you took the first three songs, the last two songs, and then a few in the middle, and cut out the others, you’d have a terrific 40-minute CD.

Of course, it’s gotten mostly outstanding reviews and sold a lot anyway, so who cares what I think.

But give me their De Stijl album anytime. Now THAT was a classic.

By eware

February 20, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this

For those of you that love the Blues, like I do, check out this video on Youtube. Check out the guitar work - here’s SRV reincarnated. These dudes are about to explode.

BACK DOOR SLAM

By David O'Brien

February 20, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

Another beautiful day at the ballpark, folks.

Only players on the field right now are Pena and Javy Lopez, both working on receiving pitches cleanly and springing up to throw. Chino’s feeding ball after ball into a pitching machine that’s firing them at the catcher….

Not gonna be quite the same having first full-squad workout without Cox here and without his talk before. But it’s the first full-squad nonetheless, and there’ll be plenty of TV cameras and fans here.

By David O'Brien

February 20, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

Now Corky Miller and McCann are out there doing same drill…

Just sitting here thinking about how interesting it’s gonna get with that last spot on bench, that 1B and/or backup catcher and/or corner outfield or some combo therein.

Infante’s likely to start season on DL, so maybe you keep Pena and Javy to start season, then a couple weeks in you try to get Pena through waivers, which is much easier at that point unless another team has a need/injury in the first week or two.

Maybe you trade Thorman and keep Pena, who can play first base in a pinch. But if, god forbid, Teixeira went on 15-day DL, who’d play 1B for two weeks? Probably only Thorman on this team capable of doing that, unless Pena is a LOT better than I’m thinking he is over there. Or maybe this spring you look longer at Diaz over there in case you need him in a two-week stint.

So many options. Five weeks to sort it out.

OK, going down to clubhouse.

By eware

February 20, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

Dang it, probably easier to just copy and paste this link…

www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7PtSsbkGdM

It’s worth it. I promise.

By ContactBuzz

February 20, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

DOB - Great call on the recommendation of the Whigs. Two solid albums. They’ll be pairing with DBT for several shows in March, mostly in the Northeast. Hopefully, they’ll add more dates and play somewhere closer to ATL.

On the way to work this morning, I heard Roger McDowell on 680 and wondered to myself why I don’t hear DOB on the local sports talk shows? Is there any chance of a DOB segment on either of the local sports talk stations?

By McFann

February 20, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MCCANN!!!

By Scott Boras

February 20, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

255 Days 14 hours and 35 minutes.

What distraction?

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 20, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

DOB - a few weeks ago, I was in Criminal Records in Little Five Points. They were playing a cd that sounded great, but I didn’t recognize it, so I asked about it and the guy said it was The Ravonettes’ new cd that hadn’t come out yet. Thanks for the tip, I’ll check it out.

Here’s a bit of an odd question: does anyone know who the top Tigers’ prospects are? I’m writing a fantasy preview for the Detroit Tigers for a baseball website, and something to include is “Prospects to Watch.” I’m going to include that with Jair Jurrjens and Gorkys Hernandez now in Atlanta, the look has changed a bit for this year (although Hernandez probably wouldn’t have seen time in the majors this year anyway), but now I need to know who will be high on the list. Thanks anyone who can help!

By kdbanks

February 20, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Disintegration is the best album ever.

eware - thanks for the link, good stuff. Sounds like a cross between John Lee Hooker and Jonny Lang. How’d you find those guys?

By the way, DOB, think the Astros are cursed this year? Pence cut himself walking through a glass door. Good stuff. At least he didn’t burn himself while ironing a shirt he was wearing at the time. Or fall down the stairs carrying a box of venison meat. Gotta love baseball’s off the field injuries.

KDB

By kdbanks

February 20, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this

Daybed - I think the Renteria kid the Tigers picked up from Atlanta has a good shot to make the roster this year. :)

By Snid

February 20, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

I imagine that winning the division is what will ultimately be the deciding factor in whether we keep Tex or not. His numbers last year were incredible and if they translate that well over 162 games then he’s going to be a monster this year, not to mention the protection he’ll give Chipper.

I think if we win the Division he and Glavine will get a lot of the credit, whether they deserve it or not. Its a mental thing. Also, I imagine that a trip to the playoffs (and a successful noe at that) generates a lot of revenue. If we win the East and keep Tex, I see there being a big spike in season ticket sales for 2009.

Being a Tech man, I am even more hopeful of keeping him, because I’ve been watching him play for quite awhile and love his demeanor almost as much as his production.

What’s the deal with Mike Gonzalez? Is he going to start the year on the DL? Any guess as to his return? The bullpen and the back of the rotation are still the biggest questions for the year. I think the ‘pen will be good again, especially with Gonzo. Moylan had a great year last year and I think Soriano is capable of being a full-time closer.

as for the White Stripes, while Icky Thump has its moments, Elephant is still the standard. Ball and Biscuit is one of the best rock songs of the last decade.

By SNIPER-69

February 20, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

I’ve read several post that state the Phillies are a bigger threat than the Mets? Lets put aside your bias for a moment. From top to bottom the Mets are a better team. In 2007 they were a victim of unfufilled expectations but that doesn’t mean they were not the better team and should have won the division. Yes, I do admit they tanked in September. But no one would be talking about it if the expectation of them winning the east wasn’t there. They possess a potent offense, speed, defense and one of the better rotations (If not the best, only time will tell) in the NL. You’ve got to be seriously blinded by prejudice if you actualy beleive the Phillies are the bigger threat.

By David Bowie

February 20, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

Mr O’brien, I don’t post much, but i read all the blog all the time. It looks like you might need some help to make it through the this tough time … so i wrote a song to help you out and give you inspiration.

Five weeks - an ode to our fearless everyman journalist (sing to the music of my song Five Years)

Pushing thru the darkest star, so many writers sighing

News had just come over, we had five years left of testifying

News guy wept and told us, Clemens, just won’t stop trying

Cried so much his face was wet, then I knew Roger was lying

I heard telephones, laptops, autograph seeking, I saw australians, cubans, and B.P with T.P

My brain hurt like hamptons elbow, no more surgeries to spare

I had to make a story for blog, everything goes in there

And Bennet was a fat-skinny bra-ave

and Chuk james was a tall-short bra-ave

And all the nobody bra-aves, and all the somebody bra-aves

I never thought Id need so many bra-aves …

Weve got five weeks, dark star is stuck on my eyes Five weeks, I miss varsity fries

Weve got five weeks, my hand hurts a lot Five weeks, thats I want what starks’s got

Weve got five weeks, the same question again Five weeks, disney makes me cringe

Weve got five weeks, Orlando’s too far Five weeks, i hate my rental car

Weve got five weeks, no more of that mouse! Five weeks, I can’t smoke in my house!

Weve got five weeks, Dave can we resign tex? Five weeks, Next Weve got five weeks, no, really, how much for tex? Weve got five weeks, Next Weve got five weeks, wait, my brothers, friends, boss is friends with mark and said he was firing boras and building a house adjacint to turner field, then do you think we could sign Tex? Fiveweeks, NEEEEEEEEEEXXXXXXXTTTTTTTTTTTTT!!!!

Five weeks

Five weeks

Five weeks

Five weeks

By kdbanks

February 20, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Snid - Last report on Gonzalez was that he’s still upset at losing the Braves 2007 Least Valuable Player award to Tanyon Sturtze.

By Brave New World

February 20, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

I see the Mariners signed Bubba Crosby…Wonder if the Braves were ever interested in him…

I also wonder where Brian Jordan is, used to admire his attitude, probbly wondering if he still has a chance.

By MGL

February 20, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

SNIPER - I think you should direct your comments to Jimmy Rollins for the final verdict.

By David Bowie

February 20, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

Bloody Formating:

Pushing thru the darkest star, so many writers sighing

News had just come over, we had five years left of testifying

News guy wept and told us, Clemens, just won’t stop trying

Cried so much his face was wet, then I knew Roger was lying

I heard telephones, laptops, autograph seeking, I saw australians, cubans, and B.P with T.P

My brain hurt like hamptons elbow, no more surgeries to spare

I had to make a story for blog, everything goes in there

And Bennet was a fat-skinny bra-ave

and Chuk james was a tall-short bra-ave

And all the nobody bra-aves, and all the somebody bra-aves

I never thought Id need so many bra-aves …

(Chorus) Weve got five weeks, dark star is stuck on my eyes

Five weeks, I miss varsity fries

Weve got five weeks, my hand hurts a lot

Five weeks, thats I want what starks’s got

Weve got five weeks, the same question again

Five weeks, disney makes me cringe

Weve got five weeks, Orlando’s too far

Five weeks, i hate my rental car

Weve got five weeks, no more of that mouse!

Five weeks, I can’t smoke in my house!

Weve got five weeks, Dave can we resign tex?

Five weeks, Next

Weve got five weeks, no, really, how much for tex?

Weve got five weeks, Next

Weve got five weeks, wait, my brothers, friends, boss is friends with mark and said he was firing boras and building a house adjacint to turner field, then do you think we could sign Tex?

Fiveweeks, NEEEEEEEEEEXXXXXXXTTTTTTTTTTTTT!!!!

Five weeks

Five weeks

Five weeks

Five weeks

By ssiscribe

February 20, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

Bowie: That’s awesome. Great lyrics!

Snid: Word is Gonzalez could be back before the All-Star Break. The timetable through the winter was a July-August return, but while the Braves insist they will bring him along slowly, he appears to be a little ahead of the original time frame and could be back in June (somebody correx me if I’m wrong on that).

—30—

By Davey Johnson

February 20, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

COACH:

The bullpen is just as deep.

I remain skeptical about that. At least when Day 1 kicks off (the season, not spring training), the ‘pen’ won’t look deep. Depending on Tyler Yates and struggling Will Ohman in middle relief is not the deepest you can get. Losing Octavio Dotel was, in my opinion, a blow to the Braves’ pen. He and Soriano looked unstoppable during the final weeks of last season in innings 8 and 9. Don’t get me wrong, I like Moylan for inning 8, but now that we lost Devine, we have to rely on Yates, Ohman, and Ring, if he makes it. My point is, until we get a healthy Gonzo, and perhaps we get Carlyle or Bennett in there, we may not be exactly deep. Moylan and Soriano won’t pitch every day (hopefully), so we need more depth.

Remember, we lost Villareal, Devine, Ascencio (or Ascanio…), Mahay, Paronto, McBride, Dotel, Kyle Davies.

By Epinephrine

February 20, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

Kdbanks, Gonzo was more valuable in just one game than either Craig Wilson or Mark Redman, who affirmatively tried to lose us games.

By kdbanks

February 20, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

Epinephrine - Valid point! Though Craig Wilson’s hair puts him over the top in my opinion. And Mark Redman is just sad. I am excited about Gonzo getting healthy for the second half surge to the playoffs!

By David O'Brien

February 20, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

NEW BLOG IS UP

By DAP

February 20, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

SNIPER youve got to be biased not to accept we a braves fan seeing the phils as a bigger threat. first and foremost, they are defending champs, they are gonna have the swagger.

2nd, though the mets have a good offense, it aint as good as the braves, and definitely not as good as the phils. the mets offense doesnt scare us. the phils on the other hand…are a very scary offensive team. they score enough to win despite mediocre pitching.

By I'm Chuck James, B$atch!

February 20, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

Last report on Gonzalez was that he’s still upset at losing the Braves 2007 Least Valuable Player award to Tanyon Sturtze.

You are out of your mind.

Kdbanks, Gonzo was more valuable in just one game than either Craig Wilson or Mark Redman, who affirmatively tried to lose us games.

Redman appeared to be the clear winner over Wilson. Wickman finished third. But don’t forget Chris Woodward and Wily Aybar, who got many first-place votes for that LVP! Two seasons ago, Mondesi was so bad, that he couldn’t even win the LVP, as he lost to Todd Hollansworth.

Past winners include Bobby Bonilla, Wally Joyner, Ken Caminitti, Chris Reitsma Dan Kolb, Chris Ray, and Ryan Langerhans.

By ssiscribe

February 20, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

Davey: I think the bullpen is actually a strength (regardless of what the folks at SI.com have to say). The way it stands right now, here’s the way I see it:

Closer: Soriano

Set-up men: Moylan, Acosta, Yates

Lefty specialist: Ohman

Spot starter/long reliever: Bennett (if he doesn’t win a rotation spot outright)

That’s six of the seven spots right there. I said all winter I think the Braves will carry two lefties, which means Ring or Ridgway would earn the final spot. But I’m beginning to hedge on that. If the Braves keep Bennett as the spot starter/long reliever, then I think they will carry one lefty (Ohman), and the final spot will be between Boyer, Stockman and Resop, with somebody like DeSalvo, Drese, Schreiber or Cuevas needing an awesome camp and perhaps an injury or trade to make the team.

Ohman’s numbers outside of Wrigley are fantastic. Moylan proved last year he is one of the league’s better set-up guys. Yates’ numbers were good both in 07 and 06 before he tired, a victim of overuse. Acosta was impressive when given a chance and has really good stuff. We’ve discussed Soriano at length the past couple of days.

Dotel was good at the end, but the Braves couldn’t afford him or Mahay. True, they lost Asciano and Devine. But remember, they gave up Asciano to get two needed pieces (utility guy in Infante who can back up at short, which Prado can’t do, and Infante also can play third and second and all three OF positions. They also got Ohman, a veteran lefty to replace Mahay). They gave up Devine for Kotsay, a career .282 hitter who figures to hit second in the lineup and, if he is healthy, is an absolute steal at $2 million a year.

The Braves totally gave away McBride, which I think was a mistake. Davies needed a fresh start somewhere. Paronto was released to make room for Resop. And, if all goes well, you add Gonzalez (who had 24 saves in 2006) by mid-summer.

I think the bullpen will be just fine. They were second or third in the NL in ERA last year, and I think they will be even better this year. A big key is having their roles defined coming out of camp, which they will be, and not having to use the bully so much in the middle innings (read: better and deeper performance by the middle and back of the rotation).

—30—

By DAP

February 20, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

Davey Johnson

hey man, octavio dotel is an unreliable arm. no way he was worth paying for, dude. and losing him aint that big of a deal. probably the best bullpen arm we lost was mayhay. that one stung.

listen dude, yates is good. thats what i said. i have no qualms at all about having yates for middle relief. he was a victim last year of over use, and was literally unhittable at time. if he is used right (not a guarantee with bobby) he will be very good. dont forget about acosta, who is awesome. i will wait to say something about ohman until i see him, but he was great away from wrigley last year.

the key will be how they get used. bobby never needs to use soriano or moylan when we have a comfortable lead, or when we are getting blown out. keep them fresh for when we need them the most.

By N8

February 20, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball

In general I agreed with yesterday’s 6:05 reguarding the Braves and their development of 1B.

You stated that they developed only one 1B over the years and “couldn’t wait to get rid of him”. I’ll assume you’re talking about LaRoche, which isn’t that far off.

Though, I wouldn’t say that they couldn’t wait to get rid of him, I think they legitimately thought Thorman could do the job, and saw an opportunity to add Mike Gonzalez (who might have been a difference maker in making up the 5 games we fell out of 1st place last year, had his season NOT been cut short).

But the one guy your are forgetting about, is Klesko. He NEVER should have been an outfielder. He made Diaz look like a GG’r. Granted he improved as time went along, but had McGriff not been a Brave (I remember an article where Klesko was PIZZED and wanted to be traded when the Braves traded for McGriff and didn’t call him up), Klesko COULD HAVE BEEN our 1B for a while. He wasn’t the greatest defensively at 1B either, but had he not been converted to an outfielder, and stayed at 1B, his defense could have improved.

So I just chuckle at all of you guys saying there is a track record of the Braves NOT putting guys out of position, or changing their positions. Chipper was gonna be an outfielder (replacing Gant), until he got hurt. Which thrust Klesko into the LF job in 94. KJ goes from being a SS, to learning to play the OF, THEN gets converted to a 2B, and did a fine job.

Bottom line, is that the player the Brave contemplate moving to different positions is a good enough athlete, they don’t seem to have a problem teaching them a new position. So I wouldn’t be so sure that pending what happens with Tex, that Heyward won’t be given EVERY opportunity to learn 1B, or be traded.

We already have Francoeur, Schafer is on the way, Brandon will be here this year, and you’ve got the kid in the Rentera deal (Hernandez?), along with Anderson and other OF prospects coming up. I don’t see Heyward being in our OF pland anytime soon (assuming he’s ready to hit up here).

He’s got a big enough frame (long that is), to play 1B, and if he’s as good of an athlete as the scouting reports say, why can’t he start playing their (1B) when he gets to AA or AAA to see what he can do?

Like I said though, if Tex signs, then Heyward is either trade bait (but more than likely he’d be the LF of the future - since his “stock” seams to be higher than that of Brandon Jones).

Only time will tell.

By ÌõÂë´òÓ¡»ú

April 1, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

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