AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > February > 21 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USShaking out the Braves roster
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Just drinking coffee and waiting to watch a workout after The Speech. Bobby Cox is delivering it now, after we were asked kindly (yeah, right) to leave the Braves clubhouse and shut the door on the way out, or words to that effect.
So a couple of things to clean out the notebook this morning while we wait.
Roster breakdown: Can’t get enough of this stuff here, I know. So let’s hit it.
This Braves camp is a bit different in that there are so many candidates for the last few spots on the roster, because there’s a few different ways it could go.
GM Frank Wren cited starting pitching, bullpen, backup catcher, and utility and/or outfield backup as the areas still undecided. “And I can’t say today how any of the four are going to turn out,” he said. “We probably have 20, 21 [hopefuls] and we’re looking for four to win battles in certain areas.
“There are a lot of potential parts, no question. The good thing is, you’re talking about talented guys…. We feel like there’s 21 legitimate candidates for our 12-man pitching staff. We have not been [in that situation] in recent years.”
Much of the pitching staff is already settled, of course. Barring injuries, you can pencil in John Smoltz, Tim Hudson and Tom Glavine in some order at the top of the rotation, and Mike Hampton will be in one of the back two spots if he’s ready to go.
In the bullpen, five spots will be filled by closer Rafael Soriano, right-handers Peter Moylan, Manny Acosta and Tyler Yates, and lefty Will Ohman.
That leaves one rotation spot (two if Hampton doesn’t make it to the post) and two bullpen spots, with lefty Chuck James facing competition from rookies Jair Jurrjens and Jo-Jo Reyes and from Jeff Bennett. I’ll go with Jurrjens as the early leader in that race, but that could obviously change if someone dominates in spring games.
Among the relief candidates are three who are out of options: Blaine Boyer, Chris Resop and lefty Royce Ring. I’ll wait to see them in some games before handicapping that race.
In the field: Do you keep Scott Thorman as a backup 1B and pinch-hitter, considering he isn’t likely to play more than a few games at 1B unless Mark Teixeira’s hurt, and Thorman hit .186 (35-for-188) with six homers, 54 strikeouts and a .229 OBP after May 19?
He was 10-for-43 (.233) with two homers and one walk as a pinch-hitter last season.
Thorman’s a good soldier, a great dude, popular in the clubhouse, all that good stuff. And he’s not a terrible defensive 1B. Oh, he’s also out of options, no small consideration. But again, he’s not playing 1B unless Teixeira gets hurt.
The Braves say he made strides as a pinch-hitter late in the season, and he’s obviously got immense natural power. But unless they believe Torman can really be a solid pinch-hit threat, or he’s a good enough OF to play there from time to time, or that he’s an answer at 1B if Teixeira leaves as a free agent after next season — then it could be argued that the roster spot could be better served.
Expect to see Thorman play some OF this spring, either to showcase him for possible trade or for the Braves to determine if he can play there.
The Braves already have four OFs with the expected platoon of Matt Diaz/Brandon Jones in LF, Mark Kotsay in CF and Jeff Francoeur in RF, so they really don’t need another pure OF as long as Kotsay is healthy.
If he gets through spring and looks like he can play 140 or more games, the Braves could rely on one of their utility men to play CF, either Omar Infante or perhaps Brent Lillibridge (another reason I think Lillibridge has a good chance to make the team, particularly if Infante’s on the DL to start the season).
It’s not as if they have a lot of options for backup 1B, by the way. But since Teixeira is expected to play every day, basically, they could get by with h Infante, Diaz or backup catcher Javy Lopez as the backup 1B.
But if Teixeira were to get hurt and be out for any stretch, the Braves would need a 1B, and they don’t have one major league-ready to bring up from the high minors. And if they played Lopez there for any length, they’d have to have Diaz ready to bring in as an emergency catcher (Diaz can do that; he’s caught in instructional league).
Confused yet? This is what Wren meant by so many “moving parts.” A lot of these decisions have to be made in concert, not in a vacuum (how about that terminology at 10 a.m.? Yes!)
Speaking of Javy Lopez…. I think you can pencil him in. Realizing we are still a week away from the first game, the impression I get from looking at Lopez and talking to people in camp is that he’s in great shape and can help this team off the bench.
He’s improved his defense from below-average at the height of his Braves slugger days to at least serviceable, and probably a tick or two above that. Again, let’s see how he holds up playing games this spring. But so far, he’s made a good impression.
Watching him hit balls the other way with an easy swing in batting practice, I couldn’t help but think, how did this guy get cut by the Rockies after hitting close to .400 in early exhibition games last spring? (I think in complete sentences like that, making me unusual.)
But then I remembered that he really was pretty brutal defensively in recent years, and not until motivated to make this comeback did he hunker down and get to work honing his rusty defensive skills. As Eddie Perez pointed out, at one time Javy Lopez was a young catcher with very good defensive ability.
So pencil him in as the backup catcher, perhaps even backup 1B. Sorry, Brayan Pena fans (and I’m one; how can you not be?). I just don’t see him making this team.
As much as has been written about his versatility, Pena isn’t a major league utility man. He’s a switch-hitting catcher with a little power. Not a great defensive catcher, but serviceable.
Somebody could use him, and he’s out of options. If the Braves can get anything in trade, I think he’s gone this spring.
Even if Infante begins on the DL, it might be tough for Pena to open the season on the Braves roster. Martin Prado or Lillibridge seems more likely for such a role, but again, it’s early. Let’s wait to see how these guys do in some games.
Going back to Thorman, to answer my own question, it wouldn’t surprise me at all if he’s on the team, especially if he can play a little in the OF and not be a liability out there.
OK, the meeting’s over and they’re out on the field doing some warmup sprints now, so I’m gonna leave it off here. Discuss among yourselves and I’ll try to add anything I can to the discussion. But again, it’s early.
Hey, let’s wake up to a tune by the mighty Clash.
”LOST IN THE SUPERMARKET” by Joe Strummer and Mick Jones
I’m all lost in the supermarket
I can no longer shop happily
I came in here for that special offer
A guaranteed personality
I wasn’t born so much as I fell out
Nobody seemed to notice me
We had a hedge back home in the suburbs
Over which I never could see
I heard the people who lived on the ceiling
Scream and fight most scarily
Hearing that noise was my first ever feeling
That’s how its been all around me
I’m all lost in the supermarket
I can no longer shop happily
I came in here for that special offer
A guaranteed personality
I’m all tuned in, I see all the programs
I save coupons from packets of tea
I’ve got my giant hit discoteque album
I empty a bottle and I feel a bit free
The kids in the halls and the pipes in the walls
Make me noises for company
Long distance callers make long distance calls
And the silence makes me lonely
I’m all lost in the supermarket
I can no longer shop happily
I came in here for that special offer
A guaranteed personality
And its not here
It disappear
I’m all lost
Comments
By Jon
February 21, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
First?
By richbrave
February 21, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
B.Pena gone. M. Prado in Atlanta. B. Lillibridge in Richmond. Richmond is going to be strong this year.
By jon
February 21, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
I’m so excited…its rainy and gloomy outside Athens! Must be nice to be in the sun, drinking coffee, and reporting! I’m reporting local police reports and art auctions at the moment…wish I were you! Hopefully Kotsay will be fine all year, and by all reports, he will be, barring another injury, but if he were to go down. Would we bother searching the market for another cheap centerfielder or would we put Lillibridge out there? I’m as excited as anyone to see Shafer, but I’d like him to be in the minors another year or two to get steady at bats. Who would be your 2nd option in Center DOB?
By biffpocoroba
February 21, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
If Thorman’s in, is Brandon Jones out?
By Erik Peterson
February 21, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this
I think that would be kind of foolish from the Braves’ standpoint, essentially choosing Thorman over Pena. Pena can hit for a much higher average and is just as versatile as Thorman. Sure, Pena isn’t as good with the glove at 1B, but as you said, Tex will be playing 98% of the innings at that spot, so 1B glovework should be a small consideration.
In the 8th inning with two outs and a runner on second, I’d much rather have switch-hitting Pena come up to bat than swing-for-the-fences Thorman. I can play each of those at-bats in my head- Pena knocks a solid single, and Thorman pops up into the infield.
Pena vs. Thorman: (which is what the choice should be labeled as) I’d pick Pena. No question.
By Bo
February 21, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
GO BRAVES
By James
February 21, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
I say we get rid of Thorman, keep both Pena and Javy on our opening day roster and go from there. Brent and Prado still have options, so we can always bring them up at some pt. later in the season.
By James
February 21, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this
I say we get rid of Thorman, keep both Pena and Javy on our opening day roster and go from there. Brent and Prado still have options, so we can always bring them up at some pt. later in the season.
By FJR
February 21, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this
DOB,
So is it all but settled that Brandon Jones will make the team?
assuming we’re only carrying 4 regular outfielders, would francouer slide over on kotsay’s days over with diaz and BJ playing the corners? That’s the one thing that has puzzled me most, assuming kotsay will need semi-regular days off, who mans center if we go with BJ/Diaz as our only “extra” outfielders?
I was considering picking up the new british sea power (actually asked you about it on a previous blog, but I guess blog change has been pretty rapid fire)
Also, am I the only one who doesn’t see chuck fitting as a long reliever? The nature of the beast with those dudes is that they get sporadic work. With Chuck’s funky delivery it seems like he would have a hard time getting teh consistent work out of a LR spot to keep his delivery straight.
By flange1
February 21, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
DOB,
Thanks for the Clash! That is my favorite Mick Jones sung songs!
Interesting thoughts on Thorman, I read your thoughts on B. Pena, but do you discount the idea of having Pena back up at 1B and be a 3rd catcher so Javy can pinch hit more?
By Jon
February 21, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this
Wow, 10:49 in the AM and not a soul is around, thats a bit odd. But then again, I am at home recovering from a bad case of the flu so….I am sure everyone else is at work. How things going down in land of abysmal sunshine Dave? Any idea who is throwing today? I really hope Hampton can prove all nay-sayers wrong and win about 15 games this year. That would be so sweet. Question though, but, what if he does pitch Healthy and wins at least 13 games with serviceable other stats, like league average or better ERA, etc, does he get a fair market value from another team and sign for about 10 million, or does he feel bad for the Braves and resign with them for much much much much less??
By MGL
February 21, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
Dap and Bayareasteve - From the last blog, the dual sonic booms from the shuttle are not from twice the speed of sound. The first is the bow shock and the second is the wake shock, about a half second later.
By DAP
February 21, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
i really like pena…i think he a good, scrappy hitter, but itll be nice to have a backup that can really get opposing team’s attention. javy definitely has the potential to do that. he isnt that far removed from being arguably the best offensive catcher in the majors! it will help out bench alot to have him to pinch hit.
so if we only have two catchers on the 25-man, is bobby gonna use javy to pinch hit or save him in case brian gets hurt? to me, its only worth having him if bobby will use him off the bench as more than a defensive sub.
By Ben
February 21, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this
Julio Franco?
By David O'Brien
February 21, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this
Flange1, I just don’t get the impression that Pena’s defense at other positions is regarded as good enough to play there on anything more than an emergency basis on a good major league team.
By Daybed Wagmoe
February 21, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this
Pena vs. Thorman: I’d choose Pena. He’s a switch-hitter off the bench, and that would be more valuable than a left-handed batter in late innings. I’d see about trading Thorman for some more bullpen help — can’t have too much of that, especially if one of the guys unexpectedly gets hit a whole lot. I’m thinking of Acosta or Yates (the latter more so), just because relievers can from being good to very hittable from season to season.
The downside of trading Thorman would, of course, be not having someone ready to take over if Tex walks next year or gets injured. If he’s not a Brave in 2009, we’ll have much more money on the payroll to sign or trade for a strong 1B. (And I don’t much like the ideas of moving Kelly Johnson or Lillibridge over to 1B — you want a 30-homer type of guy there if you can get one.)
And besides, do we want Thorman to be the guy who fills in for Tex if he gets injured or walks? I wouldn’t, but that’s just me.
Having Pena as a backup 1B/third catcher? I know that’s not a much more attractive option, but the thing that gives him an advantage over Thorman is his switch-hitting ability. With McCann’s injuries over the last two years, I think it’d be smart to have Pena ready to step in as the everyday catcher if Mac (knock on wood) gets hurt for a prolonged period.
Wait a minute — why can’t we just send Thorman and/or Brayan Pena to Richmond??? (Kidding, DOB.)
By Lew
February 21, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this
One final comment from the last blog-
Tourboy-It would have been very hard for Bonds, McGwire and Canseco to test positive BECAUSE THEY WERE NEVER TESTED. Testing was prohibited by the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
I guess some people just like to stir up the cesspool because they like the stench. As the French say “Chacun a son gout”-To each his own. Enjoy your olfactory experience.
By 22oz
February 21, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this
Its still taking time to get used to everyday blogs again! The problem with keeping Javy and thinking he will be a great pinch hitting asset is that the backup catcher is the LAST person Bobby uses in a game. Always has been. So your main pinch hitter would have to be Thorman, and that just doesn’t give me that warm fuzzy feeling.
By Anders
February 21, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this
DOB
On your lost Blog to Tourboy.
What, guys can’t work out anymore? Are they supposed to just sit around all winter, get fat so you won’t think they’re on ‘roids.
Apparently that’s the route Chipper and Glavine took. Relax, relax, I’m just kidding with ya.
By 22oz
February 21, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
i never understood how Pena could lose his job after suffering a concussion. I understood while Salty was up, but after they traded him, they call up Corky Miller. Pena is then used as a “utility man” in Richmond, with the Braves saying they are grooming him for that role. Now he’s not? I just don’t see the reasoning. I do understand the fear of losing Thorman if Tex gets injured. But i think between Diaz and Pena it could be handled. Plus there’s always trades if Tex is done for the season or something.
By uglyhelmet
February 21, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
Who would be the backup closer if something happens to Soriano?
By DAP
February 21, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
on my mock-roster i just made up, i have the 5 back-up slots going to:
b jones: LF, RF j lopez: C, 1B b pena: C, 1B, 3B, LF m prado: 2B, 3B b lillibridge: 2B, SS, 3B, OF
thats means, including the starters, we are 3 deep at 1st, 3 deep at 2nd (4 deep if you count escobar), 2 deep at SS, 4 deep at 3rd, and at least 3 deep in all the outfield positions. thats deep depth, as DOB would say it. you cant have that with thorman on the roster. i take the braves need to take the gamble and get rid of him. id like to have him in the future, but he just weakens the team this year.
p.s. also on my 25-man, james is assumed injured with jurjens, as #5 behind hampton,bennet is long relief, and ive only got one lefty in the ‘pen. i think boyer deserves the spot.
By Lew
February 21, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
Anders-Have you seen Pedro recently? He has to have gained 30-40 pounds-and it ain’t muscle. He looks bloated.
By cw
February 21, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
I agree with keeping Pena and Javy and getting rid of Thorman. I think we could get more in a trade for Thorman than Pena.
By ssiscribe
February 21, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this
Top of the morning, folks. My two cents worth on the bench, where there are five spots open (eight starters in the field — we’ll call Diaz the starter in left, although he will platoon — and 12 pitchers):
— Infante (although he’s likely to start the season on the DL). I think either Prado or Lillibridge, depending on who has the better spring, will take Infante’s spot while he heals. If Infante is only going to miss the first two or three weeks, I think it’ll be Prado on the experience factor. But again, it depends on who plays better in March and whoever it is will be holding the place for Infante. Prado doesn’t play short; Lillibridge does.
— Lopez. I’ve totally come around on this move, given what I’ve been told and what I’ve read. If Javy can play every fifth day and hit off the bench, it’s his spot to lose. That’s bad news, indeed, for Brayan Pena, a great kid who is out of options. I hope he’ll get a chance to play somewhere in the majors, because he truly deserves it and, more than likely, will get that chance this season in a locale other than Atlanta.
— Brandon Jones or Josh Anderson: I know a lot of folks have not spoken highly of Anderson. I have. Hard to overlook 40 steals and a .273 average in Triple-A last year. Plays good defense. I know Brandon Jones has a tremendous upside (.295, 19 homers, 100 RBIs between Mississippi and Richmond), but if Anderson has a better camp, I would bring him north and let Brandon play everyday at Richmond, knowing you can send one up and one down because both have options. Anderson can play center field, though, a consideration with Mark Kotsay coming off back problems. Neither Anderson nor Brandon Jones possess a lot of major-league experience, but Anderson did hit .358 in 21 games with Houston in September.
And yes, I know Houston didn’t have anything on the line and all that jazz, but still, .358 in the majors is .358, and it wasn’t like it was three or four games. It was 21, which is roughly 7.7 percent of the season. A cup of coffee, for sure, but a decent-sized one (coffee reference for DOB, slamming down the java at Dark Star).
Where were we? Oh yeah …
Those three spots above are clear cut. The last two? Hmmmm. Lot of ways they could go:
— Another backup infielder: Even when Infante returns, the Braves may keep either Prado or Lillibridge. Remember, Infante can play all three outfield positions, too, and while Francoeur figures to play virtually every inning in right field, Anderson played in center for Houston last year. The Anderson/Brandon Jones winner plus Infante gives you two extra outfielders, so you could keep either Prado or Lillibridge on the bench as a second backup infielder.
Personally, I think Lillibridge needs to play everyday. Barring an injury that would open up some ABs in Atlanta, I think Lillibridge goes to Richmond for just a tad more seasoning. Granted, he did hit .282 with 42 steals combined between Mississippi and Richmond, so he’s just about there. If he has a great spring, it really would be tough to send him down. But again, he needs four ABs every night, not four in a week coming off the bench.
— Backup first baseman: If Thorman looks serviceable in the outfield, then he’s going to make the team. I don’t think the Braves are ready to give up on him just yet. He would be another option in the outfield (20 starts in the outfield in 2006), he is the backup at first (which I think is better than plugging Diaz or Javy over there. Thorman is out of options and there is no way a 26-year-old slugging left-hander is going to pass through waivers. Sorry, not happening. Somebody will snatch him up.
But again, I don’t think the Braves are ready to give up on him. Another season like last year, yeah, probably. But not yet. He did a miserable year last year, but he did hit 11 homers and had a decent April (.288, three homers in 52 ABs) before it all fell apart for him. I think he’s going to make the team unless the Braves can trade him.
The Scribe abides.
—30—
By flange1
February 21, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this
22oz,
That is my point with wanting to keep both Javy and Pena on the team. If Javy is going to be used much as a PH, there has to be another backup catcher. Diaz can be the next backup, but he probably would already be playing or PH BEFORE Javy.
DOB,
Thanks for the infor on B. Pena’s defense. I was hoping that he was a better defender than that….
By Renegator
February 21, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
DOB:
How many more options does Prado have? I have a feeling we are going to have this option problem with him - probably next year.
By The truth
February 21, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this
I have a few questions. Why are the braves going after all the oldies of the 90’s? Why don’t we put Pendleton at third and bring Avery back in the rotation? I’m kidding of course. I love the Braves but I do not see them competing with the Mets or Phillies. We can not rely on Hampton. He is a huge mistake. We need great young arms. Smoltz is old and Hudson can not pitch everyday. Kotsay? Are you kidding me? JD Drew was a better pick than him. Tex is gone after this year. Just my thoughts. GO BRAVES!!
By DAP
February 21, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
MGL yeah, i dont know crap about that stuff. i was really just guessing…meant to put a question mark after it and a disclaimer that i have no idea what i was talking about. thanks for clearing it up….though i have no idea what you said! :-)
By Big Easy
February 21, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
I still think that we should trade Thorman (or a package of Thorman and Pena), and sign Julio for a bag of chips (i.e. league minimum). Doubtful that anyone else will sign him, he wants to play, and would be perfect as a backup 1B. Plus, he’s a great mentor to the young kids, and can still hit (even if his bat speed has slowed). But, I am not the GM (thankfully).
Can’t wait for the games to begin.
~E~
By Jon
February 21, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
Daybed, you said ‘The downside of trading Thorman would, of course, be not having someone ready to take over if Tex walks next year or gets injured.’ But then went on to say ‘And besides, do we want Thorman to be the guy who fills in for Tex if he gets injured or walks? I wouldn’t, but that’s just me.’
So which is it? Do you want to have Thorman fill in for Tex or not? I am lost.
By Bryan
February 21, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
22oz, i was just typing that same sentence … maybe pena makes it because it would allow bobby to use lopezas a pinch hitter and have a catcher still on the bench, or a 1b/3b/Of or whatever rediculous combination of positions Pena was playing last year in richmond … man … what a sport.
By flange1
February 21, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
DAP,
I like your roster a lot. I would love to have Josh Anderson there, but I really think that is a reach.
When Infante is ready, either Prado or Lillibridge can go back to Richmond.
I also agree with your rotation and bullpen. I still think it would be interesting to let Chuck stay on the team as a second long man, leave Boyer or who ever out of the pen.
Then you can give Smoltz, Hampton and Glavine a day off once every 3 or 4 weeks letting James and or Bennett take the start. It would be like a 5 man rotation with 7 guys filling the spots.
Thoughts?
By Roman Gal
February 21, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
Good point 22oz, I would much rather have Pena as our backup first-baseman than Thorman. Then, Bobby wouldn’t have to worry about using Javy as a pinch-hitter earlier in the game. It’s not like Pena’s going to get that much playing time there anyways.
By Anders
February 21, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
Lew
In Pedro’s case bloated means going from 142 lbs to 150 lbs. His face certainly looks rounder than years past. Hey the guy has to get some girth. You never know when big Zim is gonna take another run at him.
By DirtyDawg
February 21, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
Thorman will be a starting at 1B somewhere this or next year. The Tex-guy will be playing somewhere else next year - along with his $18-20 million dollar salary…so why not hold onto Scott? The guy hustles…he’s as good defensively as Texiera…and if he’s got his swing under control, he’ll be force at the plate. I like the guy and we’ll wish we still had him if we let him go…sorta like The Salty-Man.
By DAP
February 21, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
uglyhelmet i think if soriano goes down, moylan, acosta, and yates will all get a chance to close. and i think they would all do ok.
By flange1
February 21, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
SSISCRIBE,
IF Infante is hurt on opening day, do you think the Braves will keep Prado over Lillibridge and not have a SS backup?
Other than that, it is hard to argue with your rationale on the bench….
By 22oz
February 21, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
the truthSounds like you need to find something better to do than watch the Braves this year with that outlook.
By MGL
February 21, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this
DAP - When the nose breaks the sound barrier, it’s boom 1, when the air sucks in behind the tail as it passes the sound barrier, that’s boo 2. That is opposed to Anders, where the air always blows out of the tail.
By Anders
February 21, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this
The Braves need a back up infielder who can also serve as an emergency 3rd catcher so Javy can pinch hit. Hmmmm. Who thought you’d be missing Woodward before March 1?
See, it could be worse.
By kdbanks
February 21, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this
Is it just me or is DOB in a particularly good mood this morning?
Regarding CF, is it almost presumed that Josh Anderson will start down in Richmond? Given that, if Kotsay gets hurt wouldn’t we simply call him up to play?
Who is our Richmond 1B? He’s not good enough to fill in for 2 weeks if need be? If not, it seems a logical return on a Pena trade would be a AAA/MLB level 1B just in case.
By The Man
February 21, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
Thorman had his chance last year. If Tex does go down in a major injury so does much of the Braves hopes for post-season appearance. A trade will have to be made for a 1st baseman anyway. Thorman or Pena will not be the long-term answer even for half a season at first. Fish around and try to package a deal with perhaps Thorman, James and maybe throw in Prado and see what offers the Braves can come up with.
By the truth
February 21, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this
22oz., I’m being realistic. You should as well. I love the braves and have been following them since Chief Knockahoma ran across Fulton County Stadium. Nothing wrong with optimism but in reality this team does not add up. We need great young talent.
By kdbanks
February 21, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
DAP - agreed on Yates and Moylan as potential fill-in closers. Not sure on Acosta. I think Yates has a future as closer, if he shows the makeup for it.
By norcrossfan
February 21, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
dirtdawg- hate to break it to you, but texiera is a gold glover at first.
thorman is worse defensively and offensively. but i agree with you, i don’t think tex will be here next year. we need someone to play 1B. why not thorman- i don’t know of any other options in the minors.
By ncscoots
February 21, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this
Then you can give Smoltz, Hampton and Glavine a day off once every 3 or 4 weeks
Do you mean give ONE of those guys a day off every 3 or 4 weeks? Otherwise, you’re looking at snatching 20 starts and giving them to a guy who, by definition, is no better than the 6th best starter on your club. Yikes.
By Roman Gal
February 21, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
The good thing about keeping Lillibridge on the 25 man roster is that he can play all the infield positions and can play center field. If we’re not going to have Anderson up, and Infante is hurt to start the year, you definately have to go with Lillibridge…at least to start the season.
By kdbanks
February 21, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
Big Easy - Julio, much as I love him, couldn’t catch up to fastballs last year so I don’t think this year would be any better.
By Lew
February 21, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
Anders-It’s a lot more than 8 pounds, Dude. Too much beans and rice-not that I blame him-I like beans and rice myself and my belly shows it.
As for the Pena/Thorman controversy- If Tex goes down to injury for an appreciable amount of time, I would imagine the Braves would go out and get someone more appropriate at that time-if Tex’s injury were that serious, causing him to miss considerable playing time.
The reason for keeping Pena is that he could be the emergency catcher, allowing Javy to pinch hit on the days he is not catching. We’ve all seen Bobby won’t use his backup catcher as a PH, which would negate a ghood bit of Javy’s usefullness.
By David-ATL14
February 21, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
I know DOB is probably accurate with his take on the roster construction.
I just hope for once he’s off slightly and pena stays over Thorman.
Thorman is of no use whatsoever. A one position, backup to Tex that could start 5-7 games.
A butcher in LF, a Paul Bunyan like swing, no discipline.
The last man you want to see in a pinch hitting situation late.
That he runs hard to 1b on a ground out or the usual popup means nothing.
Trade him for a minor league player or just lose him on a waiver claim.
My first choice would be to retain pena over Thorman, but if he’s moved elsewhere, then just keep Anderson over Thorman.
By flange1
February 21, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
kdbanks,
You might have hit on a Braves plan. I see a few out of options guys being traded because they will not make the team, and a AAA 1B would be a decent return for 1 or more of them.
By Renegator
February 21, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this
DirtyDawg:
No way in hell is Thorman as good defensively as Tex. What are you smoking?
Oh wait, you have DAWG in your name so you must be a UGA fan - that explains it all, brother.
By David-ATL14
February 21, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this
If Infante starts on the DL, Lillibridge is a lock. If Anderson doesn’t make the team out of ST, Lillibridge is a lock.
Someone has to be available to backup Kotsay and Escobar.
Prado can do neither. And no B.Jones or Francoeur are not going to slide over and log any innins in CF whatsoever.
By ssiscribe
February 21, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
IF Infante is hurt on opening day, do you think the Braves will keep Prado over Lillibridge and not have a SS backup?
Flange1: Yeah, probably didn’t spell that part of it out all the way, but with Infante starting the season on the DL and Prado taking Infante’s spot, I think Lillibridge has an excellent chance to make the team coming out of camp as the second backup infielder, because he would be the backup at SS in case Escobar got hurt.
Then, when Infante returns, Lillibridge goes back down to Richmond so he can play every day and Prado becomes the second backup infielder.
—30—
By flange1
February 21, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
The Truth,
“We need great young talent”
eh, what about Frenchy, Bmac, KJ and Escobar…
Are they chopped liver?
By kdbanks
February 21, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this
flange1 - Yeah, I just think you have to have a backup plan for both this year (if injury strikes) and next year in case Tex leaves. Scary that there are not 1B high in our system when we have pitchers, catchers, middle infielders and outfielders galore. Can’t have it all, I guess!
By HuffBraves
February 21, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
I want to see Diaz get the chance to play everyday. I know the whole “don’t mess with a good thing” idea, but is he really going to get worse by getting more at-bats? Jones can’t play center, and who knows about Lillibridge? Our 4th outfielder should be Anderson- he’s a defensive specialist who can handle all three positions, and also has the speed to pinch-run and steal a crucial base late in the game. When’s the last time the Braves could do that?
If James is healthy, give the 5 spot to him. Sounds like he’ll need a little more time, so give Jurrjens the job, at least til James is ready. I would love Bennett in long relief/spot starter, but Jo-Jo needs more time in AAA. Gotta have Boyer in the ‘pen, he seems healthy and he has the best attitude to match his stuff. I like Ring, but he needs to learn some control.
By Daybed Wagmoe
February 21, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this
Jon — “So which is it? Do you want to have Thorman fill in for Tex or not? I am lost.”
Sorry, I should’ve clarified better in my post. I thought I did, but going back and reading it, I didn’t.
Anyway, I think it would’ve been more clear had I said, “On the other hand,…” instead of “And besides…”. So, in other words — the disadvantage in trading Thorman would be not having someone ready to fill in for Tex if he a) gets injured or b) walks after the season. ON THE OTHER HAND, I’d rather have someone else in that role (this is where the second part comes in), whether it’s Diaz, Lopez, Pena, or someone else.
Basically, my sentiment is that Thorman would be a very weak backup/replacement for Tex.
At the risk of sounding like I’m going back and forth again, I do understand that he’s probably the best (and only) option the Braves have at this point…but I’d just rather have someone else. And if Tex does walk after 2008, I would think that the Braves would look to fill that spot via a trade or free agency (with Hampton, Tex, Glavine gone, I’d think that they’d have the resources to get somebody).
By DAP
February 21, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this
flange1 i feel ya, man. if chuck isnt hurt, i actually have him in the rotation. to me, he’s earned that. until he’s HEATHLY and pitches bad, i still really like him. he’s shown he can be really good.
i dont put anderson on the roster because i dont think we need him. kotsay is oging to play everyday unless he gets hurt. if he gets hurt, we can call anderson up from the minors. if kotsay gets hit by a bus out in center-in the middle of a ame- tehre are three guys on my roster that can play center in a pinch, frechy, lillibridge, and yes, brandon jones. (remember…kotsay just got hit by a bus, so we can handle jones in center for a few innings)
what i would love to have is a slugging left fielder. ive been mantioning that for months. we might have exactly that with brandon jones, and i want to give him a shot. thus, my roster.
By Lew
February 21, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this
Rene-I’m a UGA alum as well and I would never claim Thorman a better defensive 1B. Must be a personal thing wiith Dirty. Besides, I’ve certainly never heard the terms Gators and intelligence uttered in the same sentence.
By Braves20
February 21, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this
Like DOB, I will not be surprised if Thorman is on the opening day roster. Disappointed - but not surprised. The surprise will come if at season’s end, Braves management is not prepared to obtain at least a two-year solution at 1B when Tex walks.
BTW - today would be a great day to start ST games. 70ish but with a nice cloud cover so you don’t fry. Here’s hoping next Wednesday is as nice.
By fury
February 21, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
DOB Love The Clash, one the most underrated bands ever IMHO. I like Thorman. I’m not ready to dump him for nothing after 1 year. If we don’t sign Tex after this year, what do you do I first base. I think Thor has more upside than downside. He seems to be a hard worker with great power potential. Do you think he can ever harness that swing of his?
By DAP
February 21, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this
David-ATL14 And no B.Jones or Francoeur are not going to slide over and log any innins in CF whatsoever.
why not? they are capable of playing CF in a pinch. they are better options to play CF for a few innings than diaz is to catch or play 1B.
By DOB
February 21, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
DOB I coming from the west coast to see some Braves spring training games (March 4-8). Can you give me some insights on what is the best way to make the most of the trip so I can see the team practice, play and maybe get some autographs for my 12 year old. Also, which strip clubs do you visit most;)
By Adam
February 21, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this
Just the terms Gators and Championship right Lew?
By the truth
February 21, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
flange1, Not chopped liver at all. Now tell me, what have they accomplished? NO WORLD SERIES TITLE SINCE 95!!!!! Get it? We need GREAT young pitchers! Franco doesn’t hold a candle hitting like David Wright. Bmac is good but he’s no Pudge. I love these guys but this team has got to WANT TO WIN IT ALL! I’m tired of defending 14 straight division titles and ONE WS Championship. Win the world series and shut up the mets, phillies, yankees and ESPN. GO BRAVOSSSSSS!!!!!!
By Braveheart
February 21, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this
I know people don’t think Matt Diaz can handle it full time. His AVG would most likely go down somewhat. But to me Diaz is so much like Kevin Millar. Neither Diaz nor Millar looked the part so they spent way too long down in the minors although they were good enough to play. They each essentially had to wait until they were 28 years old to get significant at bats in the majors.
But if you look at how productive Millar was between the ages of 28 and 32, I think you could expect the same from Diaz if the Braves would only give Diaz 450, 500 at bats like the Marlins and the Red Sox gave Millar.
They are not perfectly similar players. Millar has more power and a better eye. Diaz hits for a better average. And, from what DOB has said, Millar is a clubhouse leader whereas Diaz is just one of the good guys in the clubhouse but not the same caliber of leader Millar was/is.
But I don’t think Diaz should be limited to only 300 at bats or so in a season. An extra 100 to 150 plate appearances of Diaz is not gonna hurt the Braves.
But then there is the problem of Brandon Jones, who has proven all he can prove and more in the minors and his time is now as well. It’s a good problem to have and I think Brandon will do fine.
But how come there is never any thought to Brandon perhaps spelling Frenchy 10 to 15 games in this upcoming season? Diaz hits righties better than Frenchy does. The iron man streak wears Frenchy down. Frenchy’s splits against righties are not very good.
This will never happen but I think you could give Frenchy an extra 10 to 15 days off a year and enable Diaz and Jones to get an extra 70 or so plate appearances against righties since they each figure to have more success against righties than Frenchy just based upon their statistical track records.
By flange1
February 21, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this
Scoots,
On the 2 long guys, what I hear from Smoltz is that he would like a little more rest so he can still have gas in September.
Viewing Glavine’s performance at the end of last season, he could have used some rest as well.
Hampton hasn’t pitched in a couple of years and will not be ready to go 300 innings this year either.
So if you give Smoltz a day off in week 4, Hampton one in week 5, Glavine one in week 6 etc, everyone can be more rested and Bennett and James can get some work in.
Also, if Hampton is at 4, JJJ at 5 and Bennett in long relief, Chuckie will be in Richmond. One of the benefits to having Glavine on the team is his ability to mentor other lefties.
Keeping Chuckie for long relief would let him benefit from Glavine’s knowledge.
So, yes, you will be decreasing the starts of starters 1,3 and 4 and letting 6 and 7 start those games. But you will also have a rested 1,3 and 4 when playoff time rolls around.
An if the older guys want to skip a “rest” day, then let them pitch!
By Lew
February 21, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
Braves20-Got my tickets for the UGA game next week. Grinch, Me and My son will be there.
By 22oz
February 21, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
I know that there’s always a reluctance to give up on homegrown players, but why do the Braves really think Thorman is a legitimate candidate at first base still? He was handed the job last year in a platoon role, and then the rarest of the rare under Bobby Cox: the full time role for a LH, and flopped. I can’t see him as a solution if Tex gets hurt, and Definitely not a solution if Tex leaves.
By Anders
February 21, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
Ryan Howard gets $10 mil in arbitration with less than 3 years experience.
The prices are rising fellas.
By TennesseePaul
February 21, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this
I’d say keep Thorman. When Teixeira leaves after this season this team is going to need some first base help. And without Thorman this team is going to have to get help either by trade or free agency. Thorman is a good safty net incase nothing pans out, or good trade bait at that time if a trade for a better first baseman is available, which I highly doubt. The free agent market next year for first baseman isn’t all that inspiring either once you get past Teixeira. The rest are old and in decline or just never rose high enough to be in a decline phase.
Between Anderson and B. Jones, I’d keep Jones. .358 is good, but only amassed in 67 at bats. Sample Size is a common phrase on this blog and it has no better application than that of a 67 at bat rookie who hit .358. Other issues with Anderson, he can’t get on base all that well. Sure, he hit .273 in AAA but he had a .325 OBP for a wopping .666 OPS. That’s not good. He barely draws walks. From a hitting perspective he appears to be more of a Juan Pierre than anything else, a speedster with some decent contact abilities, no power and opposed to taking a walk. But I’d imagine his defense is much better.
I could see a trade of some of these out-of-options bull pen arms. The pen is a spot of concern for every team, either in the lack there of or in the lack of depth. I’d cheer for Boyer to make the team, the rest I have no opinion on one way or the other.
I dislike Marteen Prado. I’d like to see him left in Florida when the season begins. Maybe he can be included in a trade with some of those pen arms. We could restock the farm in this trade with some lightening bottles like we did with Tony Pena Jr.
For the rotation, after Wren’s call on James not being ready in time, I’d say start James in the minors and keep him as a starter there. Have a rotation of Smoltz, Glavine, Hudson, Hampton, Jair. If Hampton goes down call up James. Just don’t trade James. He’ll be a great asset this season as well as next season. Back to what I posted yesterday in James defense (taking the Tom Glavine is still good route with this). I mis-calculated on James bad 5 game stretch. My window was off by 1 game.
5 games from July 31, 2007 to September 1, 2007. The team went 2-3 in this stretch for James.
Prior to this stretch (as I’ve seen done with Glavine many times this off-season):
That is better than Jo Jo, Jair, Jeff, HoRam, Kyle Davies, Buddy Carlyle and a few others. Basically, that is better than league average. And, like I said before, James did all that with only 2 pitches and a torn rotator cuff. I’d say he’s a keeper. Just needs to keep the homers down.
By louisville slugger
February 21, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this
DOB: Going back to Thorman, to answer my own question, it wouldn’t surprise me at all if he’s on the team, especially if he can play a little in the OF and not be a liability out there.
I agree, Thorman will likely be on the roster, unless Teixeira signs an extension earlier than anticipated. Too bad he’s out of options, he could use the everyday work to try to improve the dreadful OBP from last year.
By sri
February 21, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this
DOB, Thanks for the daily updates. I have a question regarding options. If a player who is out of options is traded to another team, does his options clock get reset or change? Is the team which traded for him forced to keep him on the 25 man roster or release him, or can that team send the player down to their minor leagues? If the team signs a player from the waiver wire, then is the team forced to put him on the roster? Thanks again for the daily blogs..
By Anders
February 21, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this
Lew
You didn’t tell me Grinch was coming with us to the UGA game - awesome.
By Braves20
February 21, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this
Lew - I only have one game in Orlando this year - the 8th (Astro’s, I think). Don’t suppose you’re at that one.
We live on the west coast so we have make to do with the Phils, Blue Jays etc. Braves are in Clearwater the 14th. I think that’s the only visit to Tampa Bay this spring - except maybe the Yanks - tough ticket and frankly not worth it compared to Bright House in Clearwater or Al Lang in St. Pete.
By flange1
February 21, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this
DAP,
Also, both Infante and Lillibridge have played some center field too!
By TennesseePaul
February 21, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this
Smoltz…would like a little more rest.
Glavine…could have used some rest as well
Hampton…will not be ready to go 200 innings this year either.
It’s good to have all these innings eaters on the team so the bullpen isn’t taxed.
By DAP
February 21, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this
the truth Bmac is good but he’s no Pudge.
what the heck? mccann is way better than pudge! i cant believe you said that. by the way, pudge is 35. so much for YOUNG talent.
Lew tell grinch to come back and blog with us! we miss him!
By Lew
February 21, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
Anders-Yes, but Howard DID win a Rookie of the Year AND an MVP in those three years. I think very few will get that large an amount in arbitration for that short a time-at least not for a few more years. Didn’t Miguel Cabrera receive a $10 mil arbitration award,too. Only the elite young guys will see that kind of money.
If the Phillies were really smart they would lock Ryan Howard up long term right now.
By Bay Area Steve
February 21, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
MGL, DAP: thank you for the reponses. The 11:42 was especially well done, towards the end. So, there is always two; the shuttle is no different? Damn, I may be forced into some Wikipedia reading.
Braveheart, and maybe others, have mentioned many times that Thorman needed an extra year at each level to excel in the minors. I don’t see him not making the team, unless FW can find at least a Tony Pena type deal, if not more.
By Chucktown Brave
February 21, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
Dont forge about Clint Sammons fellas-Word is he should be the back-up catcher. Also, Gonzalez in the pin—In the words of Super Mario Cart, ” Here we Goooooooooo”
By REM
February 21, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
HuffBraves — I agree with you on Diaz. Let him play fulltime…he’s earned it. OPS in 07 was similar to Manny Ramirez ( SLG was slightly higher!). Granted, it wasn’t a typical Manny year, but it was good enough for the LF of the world champs. But the big thing is we didn’t have to pay Matt $17mm. I think he represents pretty good value for the Braves and would be an awesome value if he could extend those stats over 500 ABs. At least if he played fulltime we’d know if “he was who we thought he was”. But alas, that’s just a fan talking… I have a feeling Bobby knows better than me.
By David O'Brien
February 21, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this
The problem with keeping Javy and thinking he will be a great pinch hitting asset is that the backup catcher is the LAST person Bobby uses in a game. Always has been.220z
Yes, but that’s usually been because the backup catcher hasn’t been much of a hitter. Think about it. Why would Bobby have used some of those backup catchers he had as pinch-hitters if he had anyone else on the bench? Most of them couldn’t hit a lick. Javy can hit a lick. They can use him differently, long as they have someone who can handle an inning or two behind the plate in an emergency, which they have with Diaz.
By Lew
February 21, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this
Anders-Yes, the Grinch will be arriving tomorrow evening and will be staying with us for a week. Are you going to be at that game? I knew there were some Troll memorabilia dealers there-hopefully you’re not one of THOSE low lives, are you? Being aMets’ fan is one thing, but Troll autograph stalker? That is a much lower life form.
By DAP
February 21, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this
chucktown brave i think the backup job is either pena’s or javy’s. sammons will have many more opportunities, because unlike pena, he has options, and unlike javy, he still at the beginning of his career.
By ncscoots
February 21, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this
Wonder what the Thorman-is-useless crowd would have wanted to do with the slugging player with THESE first-year numbers: .196/.324/.373 in 367 AB? I’m guessing, merely pick the bus under which to throw him, right?
Luckily, Mike Schmidt had a chance to hit only 529 more HR after that year.
No, I’m not comparing Thorman to Schmidt…merely making the point that a single year’s stats seldom tell the whole story about a young player and his future performance. Thorman included.
By David O'Brien
February 21, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
I love the Braves but I do not see them competing with the Mets or Phillies. We can not rely on Hampton. He is a huge mistake. We need great young arms. Smoltz is old and Hudson can not pitch everyday.the truth
Uh, you need to change your screen name.
By the way, they decided today not to use Hudson every day. He’s just gonna pitch every fifth day or so. They must have agreed with you.
By Paddy McGillicutty
February 21, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this
First off, I don’t think a soul is going to be missing Woodcrap. Second, I would try to package Thorman & Pena for some kind of superutility guy similar to Infante with a little more pop. Maybe like a Doug Mientkiewicz. Not necessarily him, but someone similar to that who’s not going to just be pi$$ing away an out everytime he comes up. If that would be the case, just use Hampton as a pinch hitter or Glavine as a pinch bunter for goodness sakes!
By 22oz
February 21, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this
DOB, as Bill Lumberg would say “I’m gonna have to go ahead and sort of, disagree with you there. yeah.” Last year’s “better” options consisted of Chris Woodward, Pete Orr and Willie Harris. I know Diaz is the emergency catcher, but is he actually doing any catching this spring? if he was legimitately thought of as an option, i would think that he would at least catch some to stay fresh. If he has been doing some catching, then i stand corrected.
By FJR
February 21, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this
DOB, I agree wrt using the backup catcher off the bench and the way to see that is by how he used the 1st string catcher on his day off. He was usually one of the first PHs off the bench.
If the reason you don’t use the backup catcher as a PH is because you are worried about the catcher getting hurt and then having nobody to go in, doesn’t that apply equally to days when the 1st string catcher is off?
But if you look at last year, on B-Mac’s days off he was usually the first lefty PH off the bench.
So yeah, I think Bobby would use Javy as a PH in a heartbeat on his off days.
By Bryan
February 21, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
Dave - i am with 22oz - seems like games that someone else started - Bobby would wait to pinch hit McCann … or when Salty was with the team (of course, they might have been keeping him on the bench so they could trade him . . )
By ncscoots
February 21, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
Well, it’s one thing for ZIPS to pronounce that Matt Diaz will lead the majors in hitting (and there, but for the grace of common sense, go I), but seeing him mentioned in the same sentence with Manny Ramirez, because they had a similar OPS…
You can call me home now, mother, there’s nothing left to surprise me in this life.
By Rested Starters
February 21, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
Flange, Your plan to rest some starters for the playoffs makes no sense whatsoever. The bullpen is clearly improved and the offense should be adequate, but pitching bennett and james for roughly 20 of the big 3’s starts will probably gaurantee that we rested them fo nothing.If we don’t get 500 innings out of those 3, we will definately overexpose the pen.
By Braveheart
February 21, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
I understand Chuck James has some ugly numbers in terms of home runs given up and not pitching enough innings. But it seems awfully bizarre that people are so willing to write the fella off when he is just two months of baseball removed from pitching like a very quality pitcher for a year’s period of time.
From the sounds of things he battled injuries and physical and mental fatigue last season. Too many including the Braves seem to be willing to dismiss the abilities and contributions of a quality pitcher because he was injured and as a result pitched like crap for the last two months of 2007.
But can anyone promise us that Jurrjens, JoJo, Hampton, Bennett, or even Glavine for that matter is capable of going 16-10 with a 3.48 ERA and 196 innings pitched over a year’s worth of games like Chuck James did from August 1, 2006 until July 31, 2007?
Let’s look at Jurrjens as well. In his last 5 starts last season, he pitched a combined total of 17 innings and had a Kyle Davies like 5.82 ERA. The Braves are supposed to be trying to get away from that kind of performance at the back end of the rotation.
In Chuck’s last 5 starts last season, he pitched 25 innings and had a 4.32 ERA.
And Jair has nowhere near the track record in the minors or in the majors that Chuck James has.
And I know Chuck was pretty awful in his last 9 starts and had a 6.04 ERA in 44.7 innings pitched. But Tom Glavine pitched 50 innings and had a 5.04 ERA in his last 9 starts. Granted, most of that came in his last 3 bad outings.
But in the second half of 2007, Chuck James had a 4.66 ERA while Glavine had a 4.57 ERA.
Unless Chuck’s injury is far more serious than they are letting on, I don’t get it.
Numbers from August 1, 2006 until July 31, 2007
chuck james 196 IP, 150 Ks, 16 wins, 10 losses, 3.48 ERA, 1.34 WHIP
Tom Glavine 189 IP, 99 Ks, 12 wins, 9 losses, 4.24 ERA, 1.33 WHIP
eric bedard 214 IP, 242 Ks, 14 wins, 9 losses, 3.20 ERA, 1.19 WHIP
c.c. sabathia 245 IP, 222 Ks, 18 wins, 10 losses, 3.19 ERA, 1.14 WHIP