Braves

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.

  IP  H  R ER BB SO HR  ERA
24.2 27 21 21  6 13 10 7.66

Prior to this stretch (as I’ve seen done with Glavine many times this off-season):

Games prior    IP   H  R ER BB  SO HR  ERA
previous 5   30.2  23  5  5 12  21  3 1.47
previous 10  58.1  54 21 21 25  38  9 3.24
previous 15  85.0  78 30 29 39  59 12 3.07
previous 20 111.2 112 46 45 48  80 17 3.63
previous 25 140.0 139 59 58 61 110 22 3.73
previous 30 173.0 161 68 65 75 133 24 3.38
previous 35 199.0 190 85 81 83 153 30 3.66

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

josh beckett 202 IP, 169 Ks, 16 wins, 11 losses, 4.14 ERA, 1.21 WHIP

johan santana 225 IP, 241 Ks, 18 wins, 9 losses, 2.64 ERA, 0.96 WHIP

tim hudson 228 IP, 145 Ks, 16 wins, 8 losses, 3.44 ERA, 1.21 WHIP

john smoltz 211 IP, 196 Ks, 18 wins, 9 losses, 3.07 ERA, 1.21 WHIP

wang 200 IP, 92 Ks, 19 wins, 7 losses, 3.52 ERA, 1.29 WHIP

jake peavy 216 IP, 223 Ks, 16 wins, 9 losses, 2.50 ERA, 1.10 WHIP

brandon webb 225 IP, 194 Ks, 14 wins, 12 losses, 3.36 ERA, 1.23 WHIP

cole hamels 216 IP, 219 Ks, 18 wins, 8 losses, 3.21 ERA, 1.13 WHIP

carlos zambrano 212 IP, 186 Ks, 18 wins, 11 losses, 3.56 ERA, 1.28 WHIP

justin verlander 190 IP, 156 Ks, 15 wins, 9 losses, 4.18 ERA, 1.37 WHIP

danny haren 223 IP, 181 Ks, 19 wins, 7 losses, 3.22 ERA, 1.14 WHIP

john maine 189 IP, 157 Ks, 17 wins, 7 losses, 3.33 ERA, 1.16 WHIP

By FJR

February 21, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

DOB,

any comments on the sheffield story?

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3256776

I’d like to imagine some way that this works for us to signing Tex, but just can’t see an angle.

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

22oz, i’m not telling you what I THINK, I’m telling you what I’ve been TOLD by people who make such decisions.

Diaz can catch an inning or two in the unlikely event that Javy pinch-hits and Mac gets hurt and has to leave the game.

I asked the same question as you did. Javy will not be sitting on the bench four out of five days if he makes the team; he’ll be used to pinch-hit plenty.

By Braveheart

February 21, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

I dislike Marteen Prado. I’d like to see him left in Florida when the season begins.

LOL. I’m gonna say that I dislike someone from now on instead of I hate someone. For some reason, that sounds harsher.

It’s almost like if you hate someone, you are being irrational and you actually might love the person because you can’t really hate someone unless you secretly love that person.

But saying you dislike someone sounds like, hey, I’ve been fair here, open minded, rational, gave him a shot, I just don’t like that guy.

Sounds so much more cruel.

By Epinephrine

February 21, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, those stats don’t just conveniently leave out Chuck’s abysmal end to last year. They also leave out his ugly July of 06. An 8.53 ERA over 19 innings pitched. Making someone look good over juggled stretch is fine, but you can do it for almost anyone. The simple truth of the matter is that Chuck doesn’t go deep into games, and he gives up far too many homeruns. Due to the fact that he seems uninterested in changing his approach, I don’t think it is unreasonable to hope that Jojo or Jair can bring something more to the table.

Moreover, if Hampton is in the lineup, would could conceivably have three lefties pitching back to back to back. I don’t particularly like that idea, either-especially with two of them being off speed guys.

By JM

February 21, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

A few questions and one comment:

Is Lillibridge ready to go? Any notes on him from training?

Why are folks so sold on Jo-Jo? He looked absolutely awful in his early games w/ ATl, with the last few games barely making him seem servicable. What’s the hype for?

“Lost in the Supermarket” is an absolute surprise and a great choice. In my humble opinion, that’s one gorgeous song and a fantastic conceit for life. Nice choice, Dave. keep it going, please.

By REM

February 21, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

ncscoots — appreciate your outrage,but it was simply a one year comparison of the LF for the world champs and the part time LF for the Braves. Didn’t compare Manny’s career to Diaz’s. I simply think that Diaz’s numbers when extrapolated over a year are good enough to get the Braves where they want to go, especially with the associated pricetag.

By Lew

February 21, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

SCoots-Major difference between Schmidt and Thorman. Yes, Schmidt’s rookie season was terrible, but…. Schmidt was always considered a blue chip can’t miss prospect-I even remember reading a Baseball Prospectus Report after his rookie season talking about Scmidtty’s potential. Thorman-not so much.

By OrlandoFan

February 21, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

DOB…this probably has been asked and answered, so please forgive me. But has/does/will Lillibridge play any 3B? Infante does, obviously (I hear they have him playing in that brass band they use at the stadium once properly called Crackerjack!). Prado can. Escobar has. Pena has. But I was curious about Lillibridge. I’m thinking that could sway some decision-making on this. Scary thought: Javy as the every-day 1B!

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

Curiosity gets me some times. I noticed we have a young lefty with experience on the 40 man. In 35 starts between July 25, 2006 - July 25, 2007 James gave the team 199 innings, 3.66 ERA and a 15-12 record. The team went 18-13 during that 35 game stretch. That’s basically 1 season’s worth of pitching from him. That’s pretty good for a young guy. That, by the way, was after James’ first 4 starts. Kyle Davies had a good 4 start beginning to his career:

  IP  H R ER BB SO HR  ERA
23.1 22 2  2 11 21  0 0.77

Then he started to really stink.
After Davies first 4 games his career numbers are:

   IP   H   R  ER  BB  SO HR  ERA
263.2 321 211 197 141 191 44 6.72

And for his following 35 starts after his first 4 games:

   IP   H   R  ER  BB  SO HR  ERA
147.2 187 124 120  87 109 26 7.31

I would say that James is absolutely NOTHING LIKE Davies since bursting onto the scene.

By the way, after that 5 game skid, James posted this line to complete the season:

IP  H R ER BB SO HR  ERA
20 19 9  9  3 18  5 4.05

The team was 4-0 in those starts and James was 2-0. His K/BB rate shot through the roof 6/1. He just needs to keep those homers down.

By Nick

February 21, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

I just hope Tex has enough sense to realize what a cancer Boras is…

“Yankees star Alex Rodriguez said earlier this week he still hasn’t spoken with Boras since negotiating his new contract this offseason without his longtime agent.” “Tigers pitcher Kenny Rogers fired Boras this winter after the agent tried to shop his services, even though the pitcher only wanted to negotiate with Detroit.” http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3256776

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

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.

Now that was a good one. Made me smile.

By Epinephrine

February 21, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

JM-for a few reasons. First, he looked more than serviceable at the end. Second, he looked pretty darn good in a few of those games, but blew up in the last inning he was in the game. Third, he appears to be a very aggressive and competitive guy. Fourth, scouts seem to agree he has a big upside.

By ncscoots

February 21, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

REM, no sweat, my man…I just reacted with shock, and my fingers typed that whilst I were in a fugue. Much of the blog-expressed man-love for Matt does that to me, LOL.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

Braveheart: Good research on James comparing him to other guys in the league. His weakness is the long ball. But even that weakness hasn’t been enough to kill his ERA or take the team out of the game. I like the guy. I’d like to see a full, healthy season from him under the tutalige of another lefty, Glavine. He’d probably learn a lot from the guy.

By Lew

February 21, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Infante took swings at the batting cages yesterday, so it may be safe to assume he will be ready at the start of the season.

By BossLady

February 21, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

And I will always believe that Boras did something behind Andruw’s back that costs us to not re sign him. Andruw is doing well and making the big bucks. I just though Boras was underhanded in someway that rubbed JS the wrong way.

By REM

February 21, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

ncscoots — sorry about your altered states. Glad mother wasn’t calling too loudly.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

Yikes. My bad. I grouped in a few of Davies attrocious Bullpen attempts into his stats following his first 4 starts. So in fairness to him here it is again without the relief attempts.
Career GS.

   IP   H   R  ER  BB  SO HR  ERA
242.2 302 198 184 129 180 41 6.82

And for his following 35 starts after his first 4 games:

   IP   H   R  ER  BB  SO HR  ERA
190.1 231 150 142 100 132 32 6.71

Not that it makes him any better or that James is even remotely close to being anything like Davies…

By PutMeInCoach

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

I still think the Front Office believes that Thorman has a great amount of untapped potential. This does make him more valuable as a trading piece, however, his ability to provide a greater offensive impact gives him a better chance for the opening day roster.

Remember, Thorman was the opening day 1B man last year. An organization like we have doesn’t just throw that opportunity to a player on a whim.

By Anders

February 21, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Lew

Your Post

Braves20-Got my tickets for the UGA game next week. Grinch, Me and My son will be there.

My Post to you:

You didn’t tell me Grinch was coming with us to the UGA game - awesome.

Get it now? I think your wheaties are wearing off. You got off to such a good start today.

By N8

February 21, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

DOB

“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.”

ROFLMAO!!! (I hate using that one - but if it applies…).

Whew. Good thing too. We’re paying Hudson WAY too much money to blow out his elbow pitching him everyday. :-)

jd

Go away.

By ncscoots

February 21, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Lew, dammit, LOL…didn’t you see that I EXPLICITLY said I wasn’t comparing Thorman and Schmidt??? :-)

By PutMeInCoach

February 21, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

JD,

I’m not the internet police, but there really is no need for that here.

Using *’s doesn’t keep a 10 year old kid from understanding what you are writing.

By flange1

February 21, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for clearing up the Javy/PH/backup catcher issue.

I have believed that BC did not pinch hit his back up catcher much was because he saved the backup in case of an injury.

Hearing that BC would pinch hit Javy without a 3rd catcher (let Diaz do that) makes a big difference in the decision making process.

The more we discuss this, it seems to me the bench will be (at least at the start of the regular season assuming Infante is till hurt):

Javy, B. Jones, Lillibridge, Prado and either Thorman or Anderson. When Infante is ready, send Lillibridge back to the minors to get more experience. Having Lillibridge and then Infante on the team gives you a backup CF, so Anderson has to be WAY good to beat out Thorman.

Sounds as if B. Pena needs to prepare to move to another town :(

By DAP

February 21, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

do we have pedifhiles blogging with us now? i dont know what the rules are on getting banned, but i hope thats bannable.

By Braveheart

February 21, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

Epinephrine If you want to tell me that JoJo, Glavine, Jurrjens, Hampton, and Bennett are gonna go 22-14 with a 4.00 ERA and a team record of 28-20 in their next 48 starts, then, yeah, cut Chuckie loose and go with someone else. I just don’t see that happening with those 5 other guys.

From my perspective, I will be pleased if 2 or 3 of them manage to give the Braves a 4.50 ERA this season.

For me, part of the reason of getting Glavine is that the 3 and 4 starters become strengths with Glavine and Chuck in addition to the 1 and 2 being strengths with Smoltz and Hudson.

Otherwise, Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine does not sound much better than Smoltz, Hudson, and James.

And Jair, JoJo, Hampton, Carlyle, Bennett, Morton, Boyer does not sound a whole lot better than Davies, JoJo, Hampton, Carlyle, Redman, Cormier, Larew.

If you think otherwise, go back to the archives and look at how similarly optimistic this blog was about those 7 “depth” guys as they are with these 7 “depth” guys.

I would be very afraid of just pushing a guy like Chuck down to AAA and say we’ll call you when we need you. I don’t think his replacements are gonna be as good as him and I don’t want to know what getting sent down does to his head and how you destroy a promising young pitcher who has produced despite his limitations.

By Glynn

February 21, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

Why isnt Buddy Carlyle getting any mention in the battle for the remaining pitching spot(s)? I think he deserves to be mentioned more than Jo Jo. Jo Jo showed me nothing last year to convince me he is ready yet, he still needs some time in the minors to refine his skills. Anyways, I dont understand why no one even mentions Buddy.

By Interested Observer

February 21, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

The problem I see with pinch hitting Javy and relying on Diaz as an emergency catcher is that Diaz is such a valuable member of the team otherwise. What I mean by that is that Diaz, when he’s not starting, is a top pinch hitter himself, and a top double switch candidate. I bet he’ll already be used in most of the games Javy pinch hits in.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

PutMeInCoach: The * ‘s are the board sensoring his crap. It should be altogether deleted from the board though. This place has really improved over the years but every now and then some slack jawed yokel shows up with that kind of crap.

By Lew

February 21, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

Anders-I was looking more for your seat location so you could introduce yourself and buy me a bottle of water. We’re sitting around section 114 on the lower level-to the third base side, but pretty close to home plate.

By tourboy

February 21, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Lew,Lew,Lew, First off I didn’t say anything about McGwire. I said Giambi. Since you seem to be so “inside”, when did MLB start testing? Are all players tested? Were Canseco, Bonds & GIAMBI active players during the time that MLB had testing? You tell me. My point is, testing is mostly a CYA thing to MLB and the Union. This is from a story in the NY Times from Oct. 2007…..”Many antidoping experts remain dissatisfied with the league’s program. They say that there is not enough random testing, that the tests are easily beaten and that there is not enough independent oversight.”…The point is, just because you haven’t tested positive doesn’t really mean much. You really seem to be agitated by my skepticism. I guess that’s what happens when you stir the cesspool. Things rise to the top.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Javy, B. Jones, Lillibridge, Prado and either Thorman or Anderson. When Infante is ready, send Lillibridge back to the minors to get more experience. Having Lillibridge and then Infante on the team gives you a backup CF, so Anderson has to be WAY good to beat out Thorman.

Interesting ideas. I’d hope Marteen would be dropped and Lillibridge kept. Anderson to AAA and Thorman on the bench.
B. Jones/Diaz
Javy Lopez
Ohmar Infante
Scott Thorman
Brent Lillibridge

Lillibridge gives the bench speed, solid bat, and a multipurpose super sub like Infante. Anderson, Blanco, Schafer and Hernandez are the depth at Center in case Kotsay goes down for a longer period of time than a few games. I’d imagine the order of center field depth in the minors is pretty much as listed above unless Schafer is on a roll.

By DAP

February 21, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

lew are you in any of the ajc pics from yesterday?

By Lew

February 21, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

Scoots-Just wanted to get it in that I actually remembered reading a report 36 years ago.

By 22oz

February 21, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Thanks for clearing the backup catcher role a little bit DOB. Sounds good if Javy is gonna be used as a pinch hitter often. I still would like to see (or hear i guess) Diaz do a little catching in practice so it gives Bobby more confidence to use Javy. Of course one issue remains, wouldn’t you use Diaz as a pinch hitter before Javy anyway?

By James

February 21, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

I’ve had about enough of people saying the Braves don’t stand a chance against the Phillies/Mets (that includes you DOB). Just let it play out! Gosh!

By DAP

February 21, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

James I’ve had about enough of people saying the Braves don’t stand a chance against the Phillies/Mets (that includes you DOB). Just let it play out! Gosh!

ok, napoleon! :-) dont worry, man. youre preachin’ to the choir. and i dont think DOB has ever said that.

By Shaun

February 21, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Interested Observer, I don’t think Diaz is an option at catcher unless McCann or Javy or whomever is the backup is injured. I don’t think there is a chance in you-know-where that Diaz will catch except in a dire emergency. I think the Braves will deal with the risk.

By James

February 21, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

This is all so simple. Get rid of Thorman, now. I don’t care if it was his first full year in the majors, he doesn’t have it. It’s one thing to give a guy a chance to develop, it’s another thing entirely to have a “developing” player take a roster spot that could be better filled elsewhere. It’s time to cut our losses with Thorman and seek out another solution. Best case scenario, in my humble (but accurate) opinion, is as follows: Give Pena/Javy some time at 1st during GF League games. See how they do. If it isn’t there (their fielding ability), shop Thorman and Pena together and pick up somebody who can get the job done.

By mpinvb

February 21, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Kinda bummed the Braves organization is leaving Richmond. Always enjoyed them coming here to Norfolk and being able to get a glimpse of some of ATL’s future. Hopefully a series or 2 will still be played after the move. GO BRAVES!!

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

And maybe this is the last one…

Since September 19th (why this date I’m not sure, but that’s what got it all started) If you look at James numbers since that date minus his 5 start skid he put up these numbers:

   IP   H  R ER BB  SO HR  ERA
153.0 153 68 67 62 121 27 3.94

To get a smooth 33 start window from James’ last start of 2007 over his previous 33 starts minus his 5 start skid:

   IP   H  R ER BB  SO HR  ERA
187.0 175 75 73 75 146 28 3.51

OK. That’s it for a while on James. Now, Toss him under the bus. He had a bad five game skid. Well, one more.
Chuck James Career numbers minus that 5 start skid:

   IP   H   R  ER BB  SO HR  ERA
244.0 232 107 102 94 188 40 3.76

Lot of sub 4.00 ERA’s in these splits. That puts James as an above average pitcher over those time periods.
That’s it for sure. Hope James heals up nicely. I look forward to that guy being back in the rotation learning from Glavine as soon as possible.

By bamabrave in chucktown

February 21, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

I think the Braves have to keep Thorman on the roster and also keep Chuck James and resist the urge to trade him. Texiera probably will be gone next year and so might Glavine and Hampton. If Thorman is claimed on waivers by another team and/or James is traded, we will be scrambling to find replacements.

By knowitall

February 21, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

DOB, the 2:08 post needs to be deleted.

By Epinephrine

February 21, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

To some extent I agree. You can’t discount a guy that has produced at the major league level, no matter how much potential they may have. I think we hype guys a lot, and forget how few prospects actually produce.

Still, my frustration with James is due principally to the innings pitched problem. As the number 3 starter, he put an enormous strain on our pen. Obviously, that should be alleviated this year due to Glav and Hampton (or Jurrjens/James/Reyes) as opposed to Davies and Redman/Cormier. But last year, when Chuck would turn in 4.1 IP and a 4 run deficit, you knew that it was going to be a very long three days for the bullpen. You could almost feel Moylan, Soriano, and Wickman wincing, knowing what was in store during the trip through the back end of the rotation.

Go check out Smoltz, Hudson, and Glav’s numbers from last year on baseball reference. Each of them averaged around 6+ innings for all but one month of the season (In Glavine’s case, 5.2 for a few). Chuck didn’t hit that 6 inning average once during the entire 2007 season!

The reason is because over 30 starts, Chuck pitched into the 7th inning only 6 times. He did not pitch past the 7th inning once all season. Glavine did it 12 times (with an additional 14 through 6), Hudson 22 (awesome), and Smoltz 17 (an additional 12 through 6).

This year, we can more afford a pitcher who consistently fails to get out of the 5th or 6th inning, but it still is not exactly an asset.

Thus, I am hopeful for Jair or Jojo.

By Jim

February 21, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

Tennessee Paul,

I couldn’t agree with you more about James. Maybee the post August numbers masked the fact that he had an ERA of about 3.6 before the 20th of July and the reason for his later struggles was because he was hurt. He needs to keep his pitch count down to go longer into games, but he has won 22 games over a span of less than 2 years and many of the bloggers here are ready to dispatch him to the minors on the chance that a rookie (jurigens) or a journeyman (Bennet, Carlyle) will do better.

By Jim

February 21, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

Tennessee Paul,

I couldn’t agree with you more about James. Maybee the post August numbers masked the fact that he had an ERA of about 3.6 before the 20th of July and the reason for his later struggles was because he was hurt. He needs to keep his pitch count down to go longer into games, but he has won 22 games over a span of less than 2 years and many of the bloggers here are ready to dispatch him to the minors on the chance that a rookie (jurigens) or a journeyman (Bennet, Carlyle) will do better.

By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy

February 21, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

22 oz, I’m sure Diaz would be used as a ph first. But I’d assume Bobby would leave him in to play defense. That way he could simply be moved from left field to catcher in the event that McCann gets injured after Lopez has been used. Thorman,Infante, or B. Jones covers left field.

By McFann

February 21, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Bmac is good, but he’s no Pudge the “truth”

Yeah, OK, that’s fine. We don’t want McCann to be Pudge, do we? Somebody else once said “McCann is good, but he’s no Francoeur.” That’s fine, too. We want McCann to be McCann, and he’s real good just the way he is. The lineup takes a hit (or, doesn’t get as many hits, as the case may be) when McCann is out of the lineup—a stat that can’t be compared to Francoeur because he started every game since the start of the 2006 season, and before that, the two of them were rookies.

But saying “he’s good, but he’s no so-in-so”—about any player, really—is kind of pointless. In case you haven’t noticed, no two players are exactly alike. Some try to mimic certain players of the past, but they still have their own “style”, basically.

By James

February 21, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

There is a big white elephant in the room and nobody is willing to acknowledge it. I want Chucky to break camp as our number 5, that’d be the best case scenario in my opinion. Unfortunately, I don’t think his arm is going to get any better before it gets a lot worse. I am just going to throw this out there, and I certainly don’t want to jinx him, but I don’t see Chucky making in past the GF League sans making a trip to the DL. The shoulder is tweaked, we all know it. I can sit here and pretend that he’ll be just fine all day long. If I did though, I’d be mistaken. I just don’t have a good feeling. Y’all can say what you want, he’s hurt, he’s trying to pitch through it because of his below par sophomore campaign, and he’s going to end up messing it (his rotator cuff) up more than it already is.

By Canadian Brave

February 21, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

First! Welcome to a new season. I can hardly wait from up here where its -13 degrees in London Canada. Go Braves. Its great sitting here reading all these blogs about what the Braves are going to do with al this extra talent. Don’t be fooled by all this media hype that this is a Phillies vs Mets division. The braves have improved as much as either team just by osmosis and aging. If Glavine has a decent year and Hampton remains healthy it will be lights out. I have been a Braves fan since 1963 and this looks like the deepest team I have seen. The Braves are solid everywhere! You can’t knock a teams chances by saying well what if so and so gets injured! Right now they are healthy and every team is confronted with injury possibilities. I like the Braves depth and think they are from top to bottom the best team in the National League right now, and right now is what were looking at isn’t it.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

February 21, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

Where are the blog police when we need them , just like the real cops , nowhere to be found.

By Adam

February 21, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

Don’t think that because Chuck had a nice year his rookie year that he will maintain it.

Chuck has 2 pitches and has trouble locating either of them. He has tried to pick up a slider but doesn’t throw it for strikes very often.

If his problems from last year were truly because of a sore shoulder then he should win the job outright this spring.

To me Chuck is very similar to a former Braves lefty Damian Moss. They put up very similar numbers their first full season with the Braves. Pitching styles and problems are very similar as well. Both have trouble locating their pitches.

Damian Moss GS IP H R ER HR BB SO W L ERA 29 179 140 80 68 20 89 111 12 6 3.42

Chuck James GS IP H R ER HR BB SO W L ERA 30 161 164 77 76 32 58 116 11 10 4.24

We don’t know what we have in Jurrjens or Bennett for that matter. Hopefully Chuck will be healthy and revert back to his season in 06 but don’t put all your faith in a guy who is a 5 inning pitcher with problems giving up the homerun ball and throwing strikes. James along with that 5th spot really taxed our bullpen last year. We need guys to get to the 7th inning or our bullpen will be worn out by July again.

By The Man

February 21, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Well I don’t know if James is going to eventually be anything mnore than a 4th or 5th starter but I do know one thing. It is time the Braves acquire or produce a younger ace- type pitcher. Father time is catching up with many of these starters and right now I don’t see a young stud on the horizon. Maybe Jair will be that surprise guy. If not what was the reason we traded Renteria for him and Gorky again.

I also don’t see the Braves spending the money that is going to bring a true stopper in. I will believe it when they finally open up their wallets.

By Anders

February 21, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

From James’ 3:08 post.

Best case scenario, in my humble (but accurate) opinion, is as follows:

“Humble (but accurate)” - Classic. Like the “I used to be conceited but now I’m perfect” school of thought.

By Braveheart

February 21, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Epinephrine Yeah, while I defend Chuck alot, he sure as hell does make me want to rip my hair out of my head when I watch him pitch (or shall I say throw).

By BossLady

February 21, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

OMG!!

By boog

February 21, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

I think in complete sentences…which makes me unusual. LOL

By McFann

February 21, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

*…in the event that McCann gets injured… *

No, please!! Not again!!

You can’t knock a teams chances by saying well what if so and so gets injured!

Yeah!! Let’s quit with that kind of talk……please?

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

February 21, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Thank you , it only took an hour and a half before that 2:08 post was cleaned up.

MLBtraderumors.com is putting something together that is interesting to say the least. It’s a team by team list of all the players who are out of options.

Andy Marte is one of them.

By James

February 21, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

BMac is the killer, pudgy, lovable catcher that Atlanta has been waiting for. Y’all need to stop hatin’…

By Adam

February 21, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

Adam-Well then we have two similar pitchers because Damian Moss has signed with the Braves, and the two may pitch together at some pint this year.

By Bryan

February 21, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

I am so glad spring training is here … today has been one of the better days to sit back and watch the opinions go back and forth … good job guys!

By Eric from MO

February 21, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

Im not really sure what the big deal with what happens if McCann gets hurt and we have already used Lopez. How often do you see teams go to an emergancy catcher? Not often. Also even if we do, the most it will cost us is one game and who knows we may win that game regardless.

By McFann

February 21, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

James’ 3:52 post hit the nail on the head!! “Pudgy and lovable”, very good adjectives for him in my “humble (but accurate) opinion”.

; )

But seriously, y’all should stop the “he’s good, but” monkeys.

By flange1

February 21, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

10Paul,

I can live with your bench (your 2:46 post). I would love to have Lillibridge with the team all year, but will he get enough work?

Everyone keeps saying he needs innings and 500+ at bats…

By Lew

February 21, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

DAP-I don’t know. Where are the pictures? I can’t find them.

By Grady

February 21, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

I think some people may be missing something here and maybe this option hasnn’t been brought up, but what about neither pena nor thor being on the team. I like both guys, they are great people but neither really hits worth a lick, particularly in the clutch. Not gonna get much out of them in trade, but who knows. I say Jair is fifth starter, trade Chucky, have JOJO as long relief with Bennett. Have Javy as backup Catcher and in case Tex goes down, have Chipper play first with Lillibridge/prado/infante/escobar at the 3. So your field roster out of Spring is: 1B Tex, 2B Johnson, 3B Chip, SS Yunel, RF Frenchy, CF Kotsay, LF Diaz. Bench is: B. Jones, Infante, Prado, Lillibridge, and Javy.

By Anders

February 21, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

Eric from Mo

Losing the game isn’t the big deal. The fact that somebody has to get behind the plate is. You can’t ask a professional player to risk himself back there for a couple of innings unless they are equipped to do so. The whole thing could turn into a farce from calling the game, throwing guys out etc.. There is a professional expectation put on MLB managers to be prepared for such instances. Not to mention the ump behind the plate is not gonna be too happy as passed balls are ricocheting off him.

By James

February 21, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Anders, don’t be mad ‘cause nobody wanted to talk about A-Rod earlier. Hey, by the way, I like your approach to blogging. The ad hominem approach seems to be panning out nicely for you.

By Capt. Caveman

February 21, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Coach

Badges …. we don’t need no stinkin’ badges!!

By Anders

February 21, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

James

A-Rod? What does that mean? That has nothing to do with what I wrote?

By Renegator

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

Caveman:

Where you been brother?

By AdirondackDave

February 21, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

Lew — Many thanks for the wonderful Glavine Wurlitzer which reached me here in south Florida today. It will find its way to my grandson’s wall in Atlanta very soon. Sure hope Tex takes you up on the contract offer!

By Duke

February 21, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

I heard a rumor floating around that the Braves and Devil Rays were discussing a deal that involved Chuck James, JoJo Reyes, and Brent Lillibridge for Scott Kazmir. Surely this cant be true, can it?

By James

February 21, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

Anders, your post from 10:18 this morning is what I was referring to. As for your comments about Diaz playing catcher in a pinch, you make it seem like he’s never played the position before (which is absolutely untrue). What problem do you have with us keeping Pena and Javy, then going to Diaz in an ABSOLUTE emergency, which probably will never happen anyway?

By Eric from MO

February 21, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

Anders you can ask a professional player to catch for a couple innings. They are there to play in whatever role you need them. As far as the umps are concerned, who cares. They know the risk of being behind the plate and you say it like players cant catch the ball just because they are behind the plate. Im sure players can still catch the ball. As for throwing players out, who cares? The worse thing that can happen is you lose that one game.

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

James, witty post at 4:18. Loved it.

Earlier, though, you implied that I’m in group that doesn’t believe Braves have a chance against Mets and Phillies. Completely wrong.

I think Braves have a good chance to win the division, as good as either of those teams. Better than the Phillies, actually.

Johan’s outstanding, but he doesn’t shore up their other needs and erase a few other question marks. As I’ve said before, if Pedro is close to being the old Pedro, Braves might be in trouble. Might. But that’s a big “if.”

I don’t believe Pedro will be anywhere near the old Pedro.

By MGL

February 21, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Duke, is that the one where they are going to throw in Carl Crawford and pay 80% of his salary in exchange for Thorman?

By Dude

February 21, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Look, I’m sick of people talking about that old fart Javier Lopez replacing me as catcher. you know what, I had a down year last year considering what i did in 06, but you a***** can’t hang on that. got it? if you have a problem with me you can come to my yard and i’ll beat you to a bloody pulp if you want to question the great catcher.

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

The Man: You’re still having a hard time understanding the reasoning behind the Renteria trade, aren’t you?

Don’t know how to make it much clearer to you: Braves traded Edgar because they’re confident Escobar is ready to be a standout at SS, right now, and because they got a pitcher (Jurrjens) they believe will be a successful starter this season in back of rotation and an eventual front-of-rotation starter, probably about a No. 2 according to Braves officials and also a Tigers official that I asked about him.

And they also got Gorkys Hernandez, a highly rated CF prospect who’s a few years away and has blazing speed and strong defensive skills. Braves have a backup plan in case Schafer gets hurt or something happens along the way, and can trade Hernandez if Schafer develops as they expect him to develop.

There. That’s about it.

By Anders

February 21, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

James

Didn’t know Diaz could emergency catch. If that’s the case - there’s nothig to discuss here.

More importantly “ad hominem”. Never heard of it. Looked it up. Interesting word[s]. Pretty sure it applies to all on here from time to time. I get gang “ad hominized” on here quite often. Have to expect it in enemy territory. Thanks for teaching me two things today.

By James

February 21, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

DOB, I meant no offense, I was just messin’. By the way, you’re my hero. If I could pick one job in the world, it’d be yours. Keep doing your thing homie, I read your stuff daily, it’s the most reliable read around.

By Kevin

February 21, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

DOB or Lew for that matter, me and a few friends are going to a few games for our spring break. I think it is Mar 9, 10, 11 or so. Can you tell me anything about where is good to sit, do we need to get tickets in advance, is it possible to get autographs, how early to show up ect..? Any help would be greatly appreciated. I’m really looking forward to it. Also, how do the spring training lineups work? I’ve watched some games but I can’t remember how often/long the regulars play and when. Thanks!

By Anders

February 21, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

DOB

You’re on the inside with these pros. What do you think of Eric from Mo’s 4:35 post? Am I off base to feel that you can’t just tell any player to get behind the plate? Do MLB managers take the “who cares?” approach about putting umps in jeopardy? My understanding (because the Mets had this issue last year when everyone was screaming for them to pinch hit Castro more) that it’s expected that you have a player with some semblance of pro experience behind the plate for the reasons I submit. This isn’t little league after all (unless you count last September for the Mets - there I saved you some keystrokes)

By McFann

February 21, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

Im not really sure what the big deal with what happens if McCann gets hurt and we have already used Lopez. Eric from Mo

I know what would be the big deal…

But, in response to the rest of your post: I cann think of one game when McCann got ejected (: P ) in the ninth inning after Saltalamacchia had already pinch-hit. But, it didn’t matter, ‘cause the Braves couldn’t get anything going against the Tigers, and lost 2-1.

…then going to Diaz in an ABSOLUTE emergency, which probably will never happen anyway?

Yeah, let’s pray that it doesn’t. Nuthin wrong with Daiz AT ALL, but we just don’t want any of those kinds of emergencies.

Dude…really…just don’t even……OK? Because……just don’t…

By i can't take it anymore

February 21, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

anders, i will play back up catcher if you promise to be the ump.

By uga-brave

February 21, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

braveheart,

agree with you on diaz and francoeur but disagree on james.

bobby will give every player more then enough chances and i think he got fed up with chucks mental approach or lack of.

bobby had a lot of quick hooks for chuck down the stretch. the fact that chuck never looks at scouting reports should say something. heck even smoltz called him out in sept. and said he needs to make some serious adjustments.it is very rare when players call out other players in the media.

my take is that bobby believes that chuck is never gonna be a front of the rotation guy. no huge revelation, but backend guys better be able to eat up innings and thats one thing that chuck has shown he has trouble with. walks and homeruns not a good combination.

By Anders

February 21, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

DOB

I don’t believe Pedro will be anywhere near the old Pedro

The old Cy Young Pedro or the old 2005 Pedro?

What kind of numbers do you see him needing to be the difference?

By Nick

February 21, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

DOB- I think it is also worth mentioning that trading Renteria freed up space on the payroll for a certain starting pitcher…

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

by the way, a few observations from today’s workout:

Jurrjens had his second stellar workout in a row, and Cox commented afterward about how advanced the kid is as a pitcher, not a mere thrower. He’s got a real good arm, good command.

Moylan looks very good, and Yates also threw quite well today. Hitters don’t have a chance yet against those guys. The only real hitting has come in second round for each group, with the coaches throwing BP after pitchers are through.

Francoeur hit a few more bombs out to left and left-center, this time into the teeth of the wind.

Chipper’s right-handed stroke looks to be in midseason shape, producing line drive after line drive.

Asked Pendleton how Escobar looked, and he raised his eyebrows and said, “like he never left.” In other words, he looks very good, no signs of rust.

Escobar worked out all winter with Renteria in Miami, by the way.

Teixeira hit several balls out from both sides of the plate off Chino (like I said, nobody hit much against the real pitchers).

The kid Josh Anderson has very quick hands at the plate. Had some problems getting out on front foot today, which Pendleton pointed out to him, but what stood out were those very quick hands. No loft on the ball, no home-run power, but I can see where he’d get a lot of hits between the infielders or over their heads.

By RC

February 21, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

On the “emergency catcher” issue, I absolutely agree with Anders (wait, will that get me kicked off the blog?) You always try to have someone who has at least played the position at some level before. As for Eric from Mo’s comment that “The worse thing that can happen is you lose that one game.” he is wrong. The worst that can happen is the player you put back there with no experience gets injured because he’s never played catcher before and now you have 2 players to replace on your 25 man roster. It’s defintely not something you risk a player’s health over if you can help it.

By Lew

February 21, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

AdirondackDave-You’re welcome.How are the Grandkiddies?

Kevin-I’ll be back in Vermont by then or we’d plan to say hello. Really, any where in that little park is a good place to sit. By then it may be a bit warmer, so maybe on the lower level at the back where there is at least a vague possibility of shade-maybe. As for sight lines, it’s all good.

As to tickets-maybe it would be a good idea to contact the box office. Some teams like the Yankees will sell out. Maybe the Dodgers, too, since this is their last year in Florida.

DOB could better tell you about how long they play the starting eight. I’m really not sure. Anything or any combination thereof is a possibility during spring games-split squads and the like.

By Eric

February 21, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

Duke

I heard a rumor floating around that the Braves and Devil Rays were discussing a deal that involved Chuck James, JoJo Reyes, and Brent Lillibridge for Scott Kazmir. Surely this cant be true, can it?

I think the Rays front office folks would have to intoxicated to take that deal.

By Nick

February 21, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the update DOB, I know we all appreciate the information.

By Lew

February 21, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

DOB-Sounds pretty good tome. I’ll be there tomorrow morning with my son. Think I’ll stay by the dugout this time around and get my son to take pictures.

By wiki

February 21, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

Anders

You’re on the inside with these pros. What do you think of Eric from Mo’s 4:35 post? Am I off base to feel that you can’t just tell any player to get behind the plate?

Quit crying to mommy.

The old Cy Young Pedro or the old 2005 Pedro?

What? He surely isn’t talking about the new 2006 Pedro.

By Lew

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

Eric-Interesting at first glance.

By Utica Club

February 21, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

Eric-Lew

Sounds fishy to me.

By Luther

February 21, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

Sorry RC, you are kicked off the blog.

By Lew

February 21, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

Utica Club-Not claiming there’s any veracity to the deal-just saying it sounds interesting. Personally, I think until Chuck’s arm situation works itself out one way or another, he won’t be trade bait, nor will he be sought after by other teams.

By Curt

February 21, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

Anyone planning on going up to DC for the first game? I think my fiancee, her father, my father and myself will be going. Anyone got tickets yet? If you did where did you get them?

By The Goche (A.J.)

February 21, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

This just in:

ESPN has just announced that on Sportscenter they will be announcing “Mets or Phillies?” who will actually win the East.

I’m sure to be riveted.

By Eric

February 21, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this

Lew

Kazmir is a tremendous talent that would surely cost more than that. Jo Jo Reyes and Chuck James are back of the rotation starters. Lillibridge’s natural position is SS. Reid Brignac, a stud in the Rays minors, also plays SS. If the Rays ever do trade Kazmir, it is going to take far more than Chuck James, Jo Jo Reyes and Brent Lillibridge.

By Nick

February 21, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

Utica Club, Lew- As far as I can tell, there isn’t any substance to the Kazmir rumors (try searching for “Brent Lillibridge Scott Kazmir”). I’d certainly be happy with that trade, but I doubt they’d give Kazmir up for that price.

By William

February 21, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

**Diaz can catch an inning or two in the unlikely event that Javy pinch-hits and Mac gets hurt and has to leave the game.

I asked the same question as you did. Javy will not be sitting on the bench four out of five days if he makes the team; he’ll be used to pinch-hit plenty.**

There’s a big difference between having Javy Lopez pinch hit and Corkey Miller. Agreed, I don’t think Bobby with have a problem at all pinch hitting Javy late in the game. No brainer!

By Eric from MO

February 21, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

Anders-Im not talking about sticking Tex, Chipper, or Smoltz behind the plate. What Im saying is if the case has arrived where Lopez is used, Diez is no longer in the game, and McCann gets hurt then you can tell a bench player to catch. If you tell Prado or Lillibridge to go catch or they are going back to the minors guess what, they are going to go catch. You all talk about if they go out there they are going to get hurt because they dont know what to do. They know where the catcher needs to be so they wont get hurt. Actually there is probably less of a chance of them getting hurt because they are going to be extra cautious than a normal catcher would be. Im not saying they are going to be good at it. Im just saying they can go catch without getting hurt. Which brings me back to my point, the worse thing that can happen is you lose that game.

By Lew

February 21, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

Eric-I’m quite aware of Kazmir and how good he is. I have a friend who was a Rays’ teammate of his.I constantly give the Mets’ fans grief for trading him. If you’ll notice, all I said was that it was interesting. And if that deal were proposed-not that I think it would be-it would be exactly that-interesting.

Actually, the way the Rays’ front office runs that team,it would not surprise me if they might go for it as they’ve wanted Chuck in the past and despite what you and others may think, JoJo is well thought of by ML evaluators-as is Lillibridge. The Rays have been so hard up for pitching and will not win this year or next even with Kazmir, so you never know. If Chuck is healthy, they might like to add two young pitching prospects,one of whom has won 22 games his first two years.

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

Nick, exactly right at 5 p.m. I should’ve mentioned that. That was why they did it so soon after the season.

By McFann

February 21, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

All the talk about McCann getting injured is freakin’ me out!! Gives me visions of May 20, 2006 that I just don’t want!!

And, unlike U Kno Who, that post that was s’posed to be “McCann” was not at all convincing.

By ncscoots

February 21, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this

If anything, the Rays would look to re-build their OF depth. The two pitchers proposed might be attractive, if Shields and Garza continue on their merry way, but Lillibridge wouldn’t be the final piece of the puzzle, I don’t think.

Too early to seek Kazmir, anyway, from the Rays perspective. I’m sure they would like to see what they can do with some actual starting pitching this year, and, if the team shows progress, they can sign Kazmir to a nice deal without blowing a budgetary gasket (assuming they want to do so).

Watch out for those guys this year. If they jump out of the box, and learn they can win, they could be tough.

By SNIPER-69

February 21, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this

Lets go Mets, Lets go Mets, Lets go Mets, Lets go Mets……Just getting ready for the season. Mets win 96 games in 2008.

By Eric

February 21, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

Lew

Their front office has done a lot better of a job lately. They have the best farm system in all of baseball, hands down. David Price, Wade Davis and Jake McGee are highly thought of as legit front of the rotation pitching prospects. Like NcScoots said, they will probably want to build their corner outfield depth soon, but unless the Braves were willing to part with a corner OF like Jason Heyward(can’t trade him till June) and/or Brandon Jones, then I don’t see it happening. CF isn’t a need for them either. They have a prospect named Desmond Jennings who is considered in Jordan Schafer’s class.

Kazmir is a free agent after 2010, so like the Orioles traded Bedard, I expect Kazmir to be dealt next offseason with two years left on the contract. The Orioles got a HUGE package for Bedard, so expect the Rays to as well.

By William

February 21, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

Lets go Mets, Lets go Mets, Lets go Mets, Lets go Mets……Just getting ready for the season. Mets win 96 games in 2008.

Someone hit the bottle way to early tonight!!! LOL

By Lew

February 21, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

ERic-I lived in St. Pete for years-even before the stadium was built. If the Rays are drafting decent pitching,it is their dream of a lifetime and will prove there is a first time for everything. That has been one of the most supremely dysfunctional organizations ever. If they do have good pitchers coming up, it would not surprise me if they do something stupid to screw them up. I rejoiced when my buddy Seth McClung got traded to Milwaukee, where he immediately knocked over two full runs off of his ERA under decent coaching. Good enouigh that they resigned him. The Rays had him sit in Durham all last year.

By The Man

February 21, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

DOB -

Hopefully the Braves do have a future # 2 starter in Jurrjens.

Also I will admit if we could obtain Kazmir it would be sweeeet…..a former Mets propect doing battle against them. Jurrjens and Kazmir together may be the next coming of Smltz and Glavine and with Hudson we would have well……..maybe the next trio to be remmebered along with the famous 3 pf the 90’s teams also.

By chrisklob

February 21, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

Jill, we got your point the first time. No one responded because, frankly, it didn’t make much sense.

By chrisklob

February 21, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

Lew, have you heard from Seth since last season?

By The Man

February 21, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

Jill - I don’t know if the Braves could ever be compared to the Hawks after their division title run and the one World Series title. The Hawks have truly been one of the worse teams in the NBA for years.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

February 21, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

Scott Thorman in LF ? shades of Ryan Klesko all over again. The Braves are anticipating that Tex will play around 150 games. It makes sense to give Thorman a few more at bats in LF while backing up Tex at 1B.

By REM

February 21, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

We’re now a week into pitchers and catchers and it seems like its going pretty well for Hampton. I don’t know about you, but I’m really relishing the thought of Hampton making 30 starts with 180 - 200 IP. I know he’s let us down the last couple of years, but I’m sure thru no lack of effort.The guy’s a fierce competitor, just ask U Kno Who.I really expect him to make the same kind of recovery and comeback that Smoltzie did. I think he has that kind of mental toughness. If he’s successful in his comeback, it’ll really give Rollins and Beltran something serious to talk about. Can’t wait.

By Lew

February 21, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this

Chris-All I know is that he kept theplace in Clearwater. I will be over at the Phillies’ camp on Saturday and will see his next door neighbor while I’m there.I’ll see what I can find out.

Don’t know if he’s stressing because of Marcus or if family issues are getting in his way. I usually hear from him around this time of year, because we do the NCAA brackets with him and Casey Fossum. Who knows. Much can happen.

By Lew

February 21, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

If you truly think this is a 100 loss team, you have mental issues you need to attend to quickly before they ruin your life.

By William

February 21, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

Jill………You are SO funny!!!!

By chrisklob

February 21, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

Lew, thanks for the update. I sure hope Marcus is okay.

Oh, and be careful. It appears that we have a transgender troll amongst us this evening.

By William

February 21, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

1. Atlanta
2. Philadelphia
3. New York
4. Florida
5. Washington

Questions???????

By Lew

February 21, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

Only question I have is have the authorities in your area been notified of your mental breakdown? Have you been restrained so you don’t hurt yourself? Oops. Two questions.

By MR. E

February 21, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

Jill… that’s the Kick @ss post of the Week… congrats..by the Way youre so DAMN F#*%^#%$ funny man.

By upperdecker

February 21, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

I say Diaz in Left full-time. Definitely keep Thorman over Pena. Thorman when he’s on, can hit for power. Prado didn’t impress me last year. I hope he’s been hitting over the offseason.

By DJScrib

February 21, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

I think it is being overly optimistic to expect Jair or JoJo to do night and day better than what a healthy Chuck James has done over the last two seasons. James is still young, and a starter, maybe a #4, but still a starter. They should keep him no matter what because next year if glavine/hampton and maybe smoltz are gone, we are going to be real thin for starters real quick.

Hudson, Jair, JoJo, Chuck, Bennett for your 2010 rotation? We need to keep some depth.

As for the bullpen, I hope we give Boyer a shot and don’t get rid of him. Dump Resop. I will be real upset if we dump Ring, because otherwise, why the hell did we deal Will Startup? Certainly it wasn’t for Ledzema. Ring held batters to a .186 average last year in 20 innings. Just had too many walks.

I’m also not convinced that Ohman is our left handed godsend either. Regardless someone is getting moved down when Gonzo is ready, but by then someone will have been hurt most likely.

Keeping Thorman seems like the most likely scenario, losing Pena would be a hit, but it sounds like he’s not a great defensive catcher, and pitchers aren’t real fond of him.

I realize the Braves are tooling for a run this year, but I hope we don’t dump some young players for questional upgrades from older players (Javy and Ohman).

Lastly, if I remember this blog last year, everyone was talking about our giant surplus of deep starting pitching. Smolz, Hudson, Hampton, James, HoRam, Cormier, Davies. We were going to be 7 starters deep was what everyone crowed about. And by May we had a 3 man starting rotation.

We need a reality check on JoJo (6.22 ERA), Bennett (career journeyman with 3 decent starts last year), Jair (only 22 years old, 3 good starts, 1 mediocre start, and 2 shellings last year), and Carlyle (5.22 era, journeyman). Not all of these guys are going to suddenly have career years.

By Ben

February 21, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this

Kind of incredible where Andy Marte has gotten us. Two years of great contributions from Renteria. Who in turn got us Jurrjens and Gorkys, the former who could be something special, and the latter who could be good trade bait at the very least.

Not bad for a guy who hasn’t done anything yet in his major league career. Not saying the book is closed on Marte, but you gotta think it’s coming soon…

By 22oz

February 21, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

Jill, i don’t understand what you’re getting at. Can you elaborate? Be sure to use bold more, it adds credibility.

By Bryan

February 21, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

Jill, i was wondering if you had any thoughts about the braves and the hawks? Do you think there are any comparisons? Maybe, i don’t know, history of playoff births???

By William

February 21, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this

You don’t need your 5th starter to have a career year. You need someone who’s efficient and keeps your team in the game and give them a chance to win. With our offense that all that’s needed or expected.

By ippississiM

February 21, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

Jill:

If you think Smoltz is going to be traded EVER, you haven’t been out in public in a while. The only things I’m certain of in regard to transactions, are these:

1. Smoltz will retire as an Atlanta Brave—once his arm falls completely off his body.

2. Chipper Jones will also retire as an Atlanta Brave—once he considers himself a liability to the team, and not before then.

3. McCann and Frenchy are going to stick around for a while.

By Lew

February 21, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

We couldn’t have been talking about depth with Horacio this time last year. He was traded for Soriano in mid winter.

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

Sorry, but that was just getting freakin’ sad. Had to step in.

By Utica Club

February 21, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

Lew-maybe if chuck added a couple more pitches he would be better trade bait, but wouldnt that make him all the better for us? besides we havent really seen Lillibrige play yet and may not be able to in a full capacity unless someone gets hurt. even if he stays bc Infante is still out he wouldnt see enough time to give us the confidence we see with Escobar.

By AdirondackDave

February 21, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this

I was sort of glad to hear that Joe Borchard is in camp. Saw him this time last year in the Marlins (or was it Cards) spring training games. He doesn’t hit the ball often enough but when he does, the ball knows its been hit.

By Cleanuphitter16

February 21, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this

With all due respect, Jill, You have to be either kidding or 8 years old.

“Hudson is a never-was”??? He’s 135-70 with a 3.51 career ERA. That’s a 66% winning percentage. (The great Santana’s is 68% by the way. Food for thought.)

Smoltz is a 10/5 player. He can’t be traded unless he agreed to it, which he never would.

Glavine had around 20-22 quality starts last season and won 13 games and will do the same this season. He has EVERY season for 20 years, for $*%&# sake. Look PAST the last 3 games…if you can’t thats just selective blindness and ignoring his season as a whole.

The only part of you post that has any merit at all was the bit about Hampton, but even that is rather irrelevant considering ATL isn’t even counting on him this year. Heck, we might even be better off with Jurrjens going every 5th day than a healthy Hampton! Kids NASTY.

Good lord I have to go lie down. Feeling dizzy from the overwhelming stupidity. For the love of god please consider using a little logic before you post here again. Opinions are great, don’t get me wrong, but crap like that just gives us all headaches.

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this

Adirondack, that’s a good way of putting it. He’s a big boy. Don’t think he has any chance of making the team out of spring training, but always nice to have guys who can come up from Richmond if you’re in a bind.

By McFann

February 21, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

THANK YOU, DOB!!!!!

Had to stay away for the past hours because of……Jill.

And, well, I was just helpin’ my brother catch one of his gerbils that we let run around the room. Boy, that was a workout! Louie is quite the little rascal! Francois, the other gerbil, is more calm. We think he’s older. Gerbils are fun, but they keep my brother up at night with their (Louie’s) digging.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

Is this thing dead or what? I’m only getting a few hours worth of material here. What gives? I need my Braves fix!

By jb

February 21, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

Thorman needs to go. Watching him at the plate reminds me of watching Andruw the last 2 years. The only differnces is Thorman hits left handed and busts his butt to first. Defensively, he is average at 1B at best, and will be below average in the OF. I would be content to have Lopez and Infante available to spell Tex. Diaz can also play there in a pinch. If the Braves are worried about losing Tex next year, start giving Heywood some time there in the minors. I still would not be too surprised to see Tex as a Brave next year. If James’s arm is ready his 22-10 record deserves a spot in the rotation. I do have concerns about the 3 Lefties in a row if both Hampton and James are in the starting rotation. Maybe if Smoltz does take a start off, he’ll come back in the rotation between Glavine and Hampton. Come postseason, I don’t see the 3 left handers pitching back to back to back anyway.

By 22oz

February 21, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the deletions DOB, although its too late, I’m already dumber for responding.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

Nevermind. I’ve had a few. There is this button. It’s amazing by the way. It’s label is called “refresh”. The whole time I was thinking I needed another beer. I obliged. Then I pushed the button and whatayaknow, several hours worth of conversation popped up.

GO BRAVES

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

why the hell did we deal Will Startup? Certainly it wasn’t for Ledzema

Saw this and had to comment.
Ledzema is long since gone. Non-issue here. He was actually dealt along with Will Startup so we could get Royce Ring. So…. just sayin’. Good post, but the chronology and events are a bit off.

By Tsweet

February 21, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

Any chance the Braves are going to hold out Glavine or Smoltze until the Sunday game against the Mets ? With the off day the #5 starter is going to have to pitch that Sunday game and slot in as the #3. If they hold Glavine or Smoltze until then the rotation will be set up like they want.

By woogidy

February 21, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this

Andy Marte comment got me thinking, For all of you that complain about the few “bad” deals the Braves have made over the years… Remember back in 1990 when the Braves considered taking Todd Van Poppel with the first pick? Instead they pick the “signable” Chipper Jones. How ‘bout the Smoltz deal? It was rumored that GM Bobby Cox signed Doyle Alexander just to trade him to a contender at the deadline. Good idea, Bobby. DOB got me thinking of that Matt Diaz deal, traded to the Braves for minor league pitcher Ricardo Rodrigez. How ‘bout Juan Cruz, Dan Meyer and Charles Thomas to the Oakland A’s for Tim Hudson? Or how ‘bout Brian Jordan, Odalis Perez and Andrew Brown to the Los Angeles Dodgers for Gary Sheffield? or the one that sent Damian Moss and Merkin Valdez to the San Francisco Giants for Russ Ortiz?(who was really good, not great for the Braves but went 36-16 over the 2 years on the team) maybe you don’t remember Moylan, Furcal and Andruw being signed as free agents? Take a look at the Braves Starting lineup, and starting pitchers. Most of them are either a product of the farm system, or are player who was traded for with farm system prospects.

Yunel Escobar - Drafted Kelly Johnson - Drafted Chipper Jones - Drafted Mark Texiera - Traded for with prospects Jeff Francouer - Drafted Brian McCann - Drafted Mark Kotsay - Traded for with prospects Matt Diaz - Traded for with prospects John Smoltz - Traded for with prospects Tim Hudson - Traded for with prospects Tom Glavine - signed as a free agent Mike Hampton - Traded for with prospects Jair Jurrjens - Traded for with prospects

So only one player was brought in from the “outside” and he’s a product of the farm system anyways. If you look at the bullpen, the results are similar. Any other team in baseball that has a lineup with mostly these characteristics are losing teams. It is truly amazing what this team has been able to accomplish over the years.

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

just got back from a little p.m. run, and it’s soupy as hell here. about 65 or 68 degrees and 100-percent humidity, give or take a percentage point.

22oz, I felt my ACT score, or my IQ, or my credit score, something, everything, dimishing as I read those exchanges. Had to do something….

JB, some good points. I don’t agree with all of them, but some good ones.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

Class of ‘07: Since being chosen by the Braves as the 14th overall pick in last year’s First-Year Player Draft, Heyward has done nothing to diminish his already large legend. With a hulking frame similar to Philadelphia’s Ryan Howard, this 6-foot-5, 230-pound specimen is certainly intimidating to opposing pitchers.

While there has been some speculation he could someday move to first base, the Braves look at his athleticism and strong arm as signs that he’s more than capable of playing either corner outfield position. The 18-year-old phenom hit .302 with a homer in the 12 games he played for Danville after signing last year
—Mark Bowman

I hope Heyward pays attention. I have high hopes for this guy. If he can see these praises he gets, fulfill them, and not get too egotistical, he will be a hero in Atlanta and Long Beach. I hope he’s proud of his good rep and continues to improve it both on and off the field.

By Anders

February 21, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

Eric From Mo.

If you tell Prado or Lillibridge to go catch or they are going back to the minors guess what, they are going to go catch. You all talk about if they go out there they are going to get hurt because they dont know what to do. They know where the catcher needs to be so they wont get hurt. Actually there is probably less of a chance of them getting hurt because they are going to be extra cautious than a normal catcher would be.

And when Cox orders Lillibridge to get behind the plate and Lillibridge proceeds to shatter his wrist on a foul tip or something -then what? You have absolutely no appreciation for what catching at the major league level entails. These are serious guys throwing very hard with lots of movement. There is a lot of muscle memory and timing in catching. You don’t just pop behind the plate and catch. And catching the ball while the first and most important aspect of the job is only about half the task. I was hoping for some cover on this from the sergeant of this blog but apparently he only hears me when I mention a certain pitcher.

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

Anders: Glad you’re not putting an inordinate amount of time into a discussion of an emergency catcher who might catch one inning in an entire season. An emergency catcher (Diaz) who spent an entire instructional league learning to catcher with Kansas City three years ago.

Glad you’re not doing that.

By psychranger

February 21, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this

i don’t mind Javy getting a chance but if he shows his age and still can’t throw out a snail, hope we’ll get a look at Clint Sammons as backup C

By flange1

February 21, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this

Hey Anders,

For once you made a reasonable point. Heck, I agreed with you once today.

But why do you have to make your point then scream for attention? Isn’t that a bit childish?

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

I keep seeing all these reports that pretty much state: Teixeira’s focus is on the field.

Of course it is. he can’t negotiate a contract with the Yankees while he’s a Brave.

By uga-brave

February 21, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

guess i missed all the fun. i am assuming all the posts many of you have been discussing were deleted?

By uga-brave

February 21, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

DOB, if bradley is still down there ask him his take on the GT basketball game getting rained out. definitely the makings of a great article considering techs struggles at home this year.

kinda like when crash davis got the bulls a rainout in the middle of the drought.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

i am assuming all the posts many of you have been discussing were deleted?
uga-brave: Cracking me up man. Cracking me up.

By Anders

February 21, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

DOB

Didn’t know Diaz could emergency catch. If that’s the case - there’s nothig to discuss here.

We established the Diaz situation hours ago as you can see above from my previous post. I was actually asking you to address Eric’s thoughts about just sticking anyone behind the plate - but hey let’s forget that as you seem to still be a little verklempt from your sticky run. Important info for all-glad you did that.

How about answering my earlier post about Pedro?

I don’t believe Pedro will be anywhere near the old Pedro

The old Cy Young Pedro or the old 2005 Pedro?

What kind of numbers do you see him needing to be the difference?

I know how you like your numbers and facts - just trying to get an idea what they are here.

By Eric from MO

February 21, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

Lew-“I rejoiced when my buddy Seth McClung got traded to Milwaukee, where he immediately knocked over two full runs off of his ERA under decent coaching.” Probably getting away from pitching against the Yanks and Sox helped too.

Oh by the way thanks DOB by pointing out to Anders that his discussion is meaningless.

By uga-brave

February 21, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

looks like gary sheffield is calling out scott bora$.

it is really a testament to bobby cox that sheffield never popped his mouth off while he was here.

DOB, you have talked to sheff before, what kind of guy is he?

seems somewhat bipolar.

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

uga-brave, minute I walked in, Bradley asked me if I’d heard about the Tech game being “rained out,” so to speak (I hadn’t heard).

I said, “Couldn’t they just seal the crack temporarily and dry the floor to play the game?” He answered, “It’s not like they’re an engineering school. Oh, wait….”

Pretty funny.

By Anders

February 21, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

Flange !

Eric and I were still in disagreement on the backup catcher thing. While I appreciate your support on this DOB is the one person on this blog who has inside access to the team. I felt he could settle it one way or another. I even asked if maybe I was off base? Why is this considered a cry for attention? Isn’t this what blogging is? Discussing stuff back and forth. People ask DOB stuff all day long for God sakes. Personally I think Bobby Cox has too much respect for his players to put anyone’s career in jeopardy and force them to catch in an emergency if they don’t want to or are not equipped to.

I’m not obsessing over this but answering a post sent to me by Flange 1.

By Randy S

February 21, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this

Does anybody know why when ESPN is showing baseball highlights, they show an inordinate amount of clips vs. the Braves. Yeah, yeah, yeah, insert stupid Mets fan joke here, but it really is uncanny. It seems as if TBS or Fox South or the Braves have some sort of deal with ESPN. Anybody a TV or Braves executive?

By uga-brave

February 21, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this

speaking of college basketball what would the odds of been that the top two teams in the nation, one week prior to march would be from tenn.

espn must be licking their chops about choosing that game prior to the season for college game day on saturday.

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

uga-brave, covered Sheff for several years in Florida and again with Braves. Know him pretty well, and your impression isn’t much different than my own.

Most of the time, he’s a pleasure to deal with. Really is. But when he goes off, the man absolutely goes off.

By Timothy J Bradley

February 21, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for your early ST report!

By ColoradoBravesFan

February 22, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this

DOB… Thanks for all the updates. They are great for those of us in cold and snowy places.

Lots of discussion today about Thorman making the team this year and you wrote a quick article on him today. I wanted to ask if you have seen him take BP yet? How did he look so far? I know you stated the hitters are behind the pitchers right now, but I hope at least the bench coach isn’t striking out the guy. Any impression so far?

GO BRAVOS…

By David O'Brien

February 22, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this

Colorado, I watched him today, stood at the cage while he hit. He looked OK, nothing special. Didn’t hit any out like others did (Francoeur, Chipper, Teixeira, Kotsay come to mind; all hit several out), but Thorman did hit some line drives up the middle.

By ColoradoBravesFan

February 22, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this

OK if there is no one to help me on the Blog night shift, then you get this from Phil Collins.

I can feel it coming in the air tonight, oh Lord I’ve been waiting for this moment all my life, oh Lord Can you feel it coming in the air tonight, oh Lord, oh Lord

Well if you told me you were drowning, I would not lend a hand I’ve seen your face before my friend, but I don’t know if you know who I am And I was there and I saw what you did, I saw it with my own two eyes So you can wipe off that grin, I know where you’ve been It’s all been a pack of lies

And I can feel it coming in the air tonight, oh Lord I’ve been waiting for this moment all my life, oh Lord I can feel it in the air tonight, oh Lord, oh Lord And I’ve been waiting for this moment all my life, oh Lord, oh Lord

Well I remember, I remember, don’t worry, how could I ever forget It’s the first time and the last time we ever met But I know the reason why you keep your silence up, no you don’t fool me Because the hurt doesn’t show, but the pain still grows It’s no stranger to you and me

I can feel it coming in the air tonight, oh Lord I’ve been waiting for this moment for all my life, oh Lord I can feel it coming in the air tonight, oh Lord I’ve been waiting for this moment all my life, oh Lord, oh Lord I can feel it coming in the air tonight, oh Lord And I’ve been waiting for this moment all my life, oh Lord, oh Lord I can feel it coming in the air, I can feel it coming in the air I’ve been waiting for this moment all my life, my life

I can feel it coming in the air, I can feel it coming in the air I’ve been waiting for this moment all my li-i-i-i-i-ife I’ve been waiting for this moment all my life, my life

If you regulars don’t keep this thing going… next will be FERGIE.

GO BRAVOS…

By ColoradoBravesFan

February 22, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this

DOB… Thanks you saved yourself and all others from the lyrics to ClUMSY.

GO BRAVOS…

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

February 22, 2008 12:44 AM | Link to this

Logic dictates my thought process concerning first base.

Cox will carry two first basemen on his 25 man roster. Teixeira and Thorman are the best qualified in that regard.

So , unless the Braves are going to trade……and why would they trade for another back up first baseman when Thorman is just 26 and makes the league minimum.

look at the depth chart and roster. Two names are listed at first base.

By BayAreaSteve

February 22, 2008 12:44 AM | Link to this

Philosophical questions for the denizens:

Do you take the best 25 to Atlanta, regardless of option status, even if no trade is available?

If Thorman, Pena, Resop, Boyer, or Ring are not in the best 25, but awfully close, do you lose them?

Maybe it’s best to not use those specific players; think in general terms of prospects you have drafted and invested years in, and still believe could be solid major leauge contributors. Do you send someone back to Richmond to keep a player (and not lose him to waivers) who may not help your team quite as much?

By TrboDawg

February 22, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this

FERGIE? please, no…..

By mr baseball

February 22, 2008 12:51 AM | Link to this

The makeup of a team’s starting lineup usually determines what kind of bench is required. If you have a team with several positions manned by fringe players, you need adequate backups at those spots. If you have a team with a lot of every day players, like the Braves are likely to be, you need to be more concerned with having guys who can produce off the bench.

The one problem with the Braves’ personnel is that there is no strong RH hitter who can play CF. Maybe Infante will be able to fill that role, but he hasn’t hit much the last few years.

When Jones starts in left, the Braves will have 4 lefty hitters plus a switch hitter who has not been that great batting righty the last year or 2. The team is going to see a lot of lefty relievers, which might dictate that they have someone other than Thorman as their main pinch hitter. Javy will be useful in that regard, but as the backup catcher, Cox should not use him until the 8th or 9th inning, which would preclude pinch-running for McCann unless Javy pinch hits in the same inning.

Jones, Infante (when healthy) and a backup catcher (probably Javy) have 3 spots. The other 2 should go to the best bats the Braves have (or can trade for). Barring injury, they don’t need backups as much as pinch-hitters, and with all the lefties, they need another strong RH bat, especially one who could occasionally spell Kotsay. Maybe more than occasionally if Kotsay’s back isn’t 100 percent.

There isn’t much still available (assuming Reggie Sanders and Preston Wilson are done because of injuries), but there should be somebody they can get late in the spring for Thorman/Prado/Pena who will be of greater use considering the makeup of the rest of the team.

Wonder if the Braves have phone #s for Lofton & Patterson in case Kotsay’s back goes out again. Hope they have some kind of plan B in that event, ‘cause what they have on the current roster does not inspire great confidence.

By BayAreaSteve

February 22, 2008 12:52 AM | Link to this

Online poker is hard.

Ultimate Bet has become tighter than…ok, first thought is ban worthy, and not all that funny.

Tighter than Bowman when the check arrives. Still nothing.

Ultimate Bet is tight.

By uga-brave

February 22, 2008 12:57 AM | Link to this

colorado,

at least you did not post the lyrics to su sudio.

By mr baseball

February 22, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this

Coach: hate to break it to you, but when your starting 1B is likely to play 155-160 games, you don’t need a backup at the position. Guys like Diaz or Lopez can fill in if needed. If the Braves are going to carry 2 1B, the second guy is going to see 95 percent of his action as a pinch-hitter. That role is better suited to a guy like Daryl Ward or Mark Sweeney than Thorman.

Too many folks here are obsessing about an emergency catcher if Javy pinch hits. Can anyone remember the last time the Braves needed a 3rd catcher in a game. They had a terrific one a few years ago (Marrero) and I don’t recall him playing an inning behind the plate the entire season.

I do remember the Braves losing a World Series in ‘96 when they carried a totally unnecssary 3rd catcher in the post-season instead of an extra bat off the bench. If memory serves, I think the Braves’ pinch-hitters went 0-for-the-post season that year.

If Wren is anything like Schuerholz, the Braves will pick up a vet pinch hitter somewhere around Aug. 30 if they’re still in contention. Would be nice if they got one a little earlier instead of carrying a second backup infielder.

By uga-brave

February 22, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this

thorman is on this team unless he is traded.

pena does not hit for power and his upside is somewhat limited. he probably will be traded for whatever we can get. this is of course contingent upon javy being up to snuff.

By ColoradoBravesFan

February 22, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this

Coach… I agree Thorman is the best back up at first. We should give him a chance in spring and during the first couple of months of the season to see if can hit as a pinch hitter. If not, need to move on to other options and not waste the roster space.

* Bayareasteve*

I believe management should send down those with players with options. There will be injuries and those who don’t go north with the team from ST, might be on the team in may or June. You give yourself just more time to see if the ones without options can perform at the MLB level.

Thanks to both of you and coach for keeping the blog flowing.

GO BRAVOS…

By Cameron Chambers

February 22, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this

The lineup should be,

SS Yunel Escobar 2B Kelly Johnson 3B Chipper Jones 1B Mark Texiera RF Jeff Francoeur C Brian McCann CF Mark Kotsay LF Matt Diaz P -

The Pitching Rotation Should Be,

1. John Smoltz
2. Tim Hudson
3. Tom Glavine
4. Mike Hampton[if healthy]
5. Jair Jurrjens

Long Relief-Chuck James[or be traded] Closer-Soranio

but come on.. look at all the depth we have, and all the players without options left. make a big trade braves and get a good/great young starting pitcher, um lets see, Blanton, Kazmir, come on lets shut the mutts and phillies up and make this the year the braves go all the way.

GO BRAVES!

By uga-brave

February 22, 2008 1:10 AM | Link to this

BayAreaSteve,

Whiskey?

By BayAreaSteve

February 22, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this

Good grief, let’s pretend I spelled it league.

By BayAreaSteve

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

Trading depth wouldn’t get Blanton, wouldn’t get Kazmir, and wouldn’t get Chuck James if the situation was reversed.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

February 22, 2008 1:19 AM | Link to this

Mr.Baseball , honestly……you could not be more wrong if you tried.

Sorry buddy , Bobby Cox has always carried two first basemen…..ALWAYS.

As far as the mix of left and right handed hitters , the Braves have a really good combination of both.

By uga-brave

February 22, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this

mr. baseball,

totally agree with the left handed thing. if bobby sticks to the platoon thing there are gonna be a lot of nights when lh relievers are gonna have their way with us late in games.

By BayAreaSteve

February 22, 2008 1:26 AM | Link to this

Damn right, UGA. Canadian Club to the death.

Or rehab.

By uga-brave

February 22, 2008 1:45 AM | Link to this

or whichever comes first?

COACH, lately bobby has carried two firstmen because he platooned laroche and planned on platooning thorman. when mcgriff was here he did not carry two unless they played another position. klesko served as the primary backup and he started in left field. optimally bobby would love to carry five outfielders.

thats why infante is important he can play on the infield as well as the outfield.

i agree that thorman makes this team and i suspect he will play some left this spring if the braves intend on keeping him. he will only be out there in an emergengy but he still needs the reps.

By BayAreaSteve

February 22, 2008 1:47 AM | Link to this

Borderline ridiculous that DOB doesn’t stay up for the late shift. I mean, a true crusading everyman needs what…two…three hours sleep a night.

By uga-brave

February 22, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this

BayAreaSteve,

graveyard shift has been kind of slow lately. wayne in utah, is usually around, brave-dave used to be a regular but has gone AWOL. always a few of us late nighters around on weekends.

By Moby Grape

February 22, 2008 2:01 AM | Link to this

he’s(Thorman) as good defensively as TexieraDirtyDawg

now that is the funniest thing that I’ve read in a while.

By DJScrib

February 22, 2008 2:02 AM | Link to this

For everyone waxing poetic about a Kazmir trade, do you really think a package led by James is really the best the Rays can get for him? Maybe every other major league team isn’t paying attention?

The Yanks would offer Hughes, Red Sox, Lester, Mariners offered up Adam Jones for Bedard, do we really have a deal that matches up along those lines?

I’d love it to get Kazmir, but it’s not exactly a secret that good affordable starting pitchers are a valuable commodity. If we give up Francouer, Escobar, JoJo and Jair, I think they might listen, otherwise, not a chance for the scrubs people are listing here.

By BayAreaSteve

February 22, 2008 2:05 AM | Link to this

UGA, I fully agree about Thorman making the team, and his ability as a last ditch left fielder. I just really wonder if I want to keep guys like Pena, and Boyer, and Thorman because I don’t want to lose them for nothing, rather than because they are the best option for the team.

By uga-brave

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

boyer would have to pitch great this spring to make the team. he got in cox’s doghouse early in 06 when he was not honest about his arm problems. threw in two games and was done for the season. bobby was really peaved he did not say anything during spring training.

By SeattleBravesFan

February 22, 2008 2:20 AM | Link to this

I’m not sure why there is so much talk about an emergency catcher. DOB has set the record straight. Diaz has been taught how to be a major league catcher in the past. If an emergency arises, it appears the Braves would feel comfortable placing him behind the plate. And since that type of emergency happens almost never, I’m not sure what the fuss is. Anders, let it go or go back and read DOB’s comments, he explains it rather simply and succinctly.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

February 22, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this

Scott Kazmir. Now , just imagine where the Mets would be if they had not traded the young Ace left hander.

He could hit the trade market later on this season , although it’s more likely that Kazmir will remain a Devil Ray for the time being.

He won’t be an unrestricted free agent until after the 2010 season.

By SeattleBravesFan

February 22, 2008 2:25 AM | Link to this

And out of curiosity, where does the idea that Bobby would just throw someone behind the plate to catch come into play? Why is that even a question or concern?

By BayAreaSteve

February 22, 2008 2:35 AM | Link to this

First of all, anyone who would respond to Anders is a damn fool, in my sarcastic opinion. Although, he does have entertainment value.

Secondly, I think there is concern about the emergency catcher because we all remember Cox not pinch hitting the back up catcher over the years. DOB’s comments that he has asked and been told that the team will use the second catcher to hit is somewhat reassuring. I am less convinced.

I think the reason the emergency catcher hasn’t been needed much in the past is that Cox waited as long as possible to use the back up.

I also think Lopez and Pena have a real chance of both making the team, provided they have good springs.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

February 22, 2008 2:42 AM | Link to this

For the record : Brayan Pena , Scott Thorman , Blaine Boyer , Chris Resop and Royce Ring are out of options.

Thorman is the most likely to make the team.

Chris Resop if healthy will push for a roster spot in the bullpen. If he isn’t healthy , all bets are off.

Brayan Pena is a man fighting an uphill battle. McCann , Lopez and Sammons are ahead of him on the depth chart at the catcher position. He only has marginal experience playing 1st Base and the OF.

Blaine Boyer is likely to be snatched up off waivers if he doesn’t make the bullpen.

Ditto for Royce Ring , lefties are a valuable commodity.

The Braves are likely to lose one or two of these guys. It is inevitable.

By Moby Grape

February 22, 2008 2:43 AM | Link to this

Remember, Thorman was the opening day 1B man last year. An organization like we have doesn’t just throw that opportunity to a player on a whim.*PutMeInCoach8

oh, like Brogna and Mondesi and a few others over the years huh?

By nOLIE

February 22, 2008 3:03 AM | Link to this

TennPaul

I fail to see what there is to dislike so much about Prado.The guy has a .300/.352 career minor league average in what are all pitchers parks. He hit much better at AAA last season than Lillibridge(whose OBP has dropped off as he has progressed up the ladder) did.Makes more sense to me to give Brent more seasoning at AAA and let Prado be the backup guy. Even though he has less versatility than BL, most of that will likely be covered by Infante anyway.I’m not saying that BL hasn’t far more upside than MP, but I just have a hard time seeing a reason for the dislike…unless you are afraid that if Martin stays that Bobby will break down to the temptation to platoon them at some point. ;-)

By BayAreaSteve

February 22, 2008 3:06 AM | Link to this

Every once in a long, long, long while, the DVR is a bad thing.

I just spent ninety minutes watching the Knight Rider movie that aired on NBC a while back.

Knight Rider was must see TV back in the day; I must be maturing. On second thought, that is highly unlikely. It must have always been drivel. What does this say for the A-Team and Macgyver?

By BayAreaSteve

February 22, 2008 3:11 AM | Link to this

If you build it, they will come.

If there is a platoon to be found, Bobby will use it.

I agree about BL. If Infante is healthy, let BL dominate the minors, and force the Braves to find a starting spot for him.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

February 22, 2008 3:15 AM | Link to this

Raul Mondesi lasted all of 41 games. Rico Brogna played 72 games.

Scott Thorman has been with the Braves for seven seasons and 815 games.

Moby Grape , your gonna have to do better than that my friend.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

February 22, 2008 3:29 AM | Link to this

This is truly mind blowing. According to the following MSNBC spring training special feature , the Braves are supposedly a worse team right now than they were at the end of the season.

Who are these people and what tree did they fall out of ?

http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/6841778/?pg=21#sptMLBSpring_preview

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

February 22, 2008 3:53 AM | Link to this

I mean , are the so called experts even aware that Smoltz , Hudson , Glavine and James combined for a record of 44-36 with an ERA of 3.74 and 791.2 innings. Never mind the team record of 75-55 during their 130 starts.

These people have their collective heads in the sand.

If the Braves get 800 quality innings out of the rotation this season , the division race is all but over. If Hampton stays healthy , forget about it , the Mets and Phillies are playing for the wild card.

By Moby Grape

February 22, 2008 4:31 AM | Link to this

Raul Mondesi lasted all of 41 games. Rico Brogna played 72 games.

Scott Thorman has been with the Braves for seven seasons and 815 gamesCoach

I’m not sure what that has to do with the two posts. Guy implied that they always know what they are doing when they start a player.While that is usually true, it obviously isn’t always. Thorman will not have as good a career as either of those guys had, no matter how long he played in the Atlanta organization.

By ncscoots

February 22, 2008 6:34 AM | Link to this

I think mr b and I have been a couple of voices in the wilderness on our wish for a RH bat with pop for the bench. Yes, yes, I know it seems such a minor thing (and I guess it is), but it nags at me. Problem is figuring out where to slot such a player, what with all the different cases made for such-and-such a player to make the squad. Maybe Javy really is ready for a big season as the primary righty PH, but, man, that seems a tenuous Plan A to me.

By David O'Brien

February 22, 2008 7:12 AM | Link to this

Coach, why do you read baseball previews on sites like MSNBC if they’re gonna bother you like that? Most of that stuff comes from people sitting at home reading preview mags or other dated information, not anyone actually out covering ‘ball….

BayArea, the CE DOB can make it on 5-6 hours most nights, but not two to three. We’ll work on it, though.

By Steve McP

February 22, 2008 7:48 AM | Link to this

Good idea to post the Phil Collins lyrics in the middle of the night, should help anyone with insomnia

By mark

February 22, 2008 7:54 AM | Link to this

One of the reasons we finished 5 games behind was the inability of Thorman to develop at 1st base and his bad hitting, If Tex had been at first from the beginning..I believe we would have won 5 more games.However it is a new season.It would be awesome to see tex and Frenchy signed to extended contracts before end of spring training..Go ahead Pay 20 million for Tex..make the money back on his fame.The Team would have really been dull w/o Chipper all these years.They need Tex and Frenchy long term

By Dave

February 22, 2008 8:05 AM | Link to this

What is going on with reliever Gonzalez when is due to come back from injury?

By richbrave

February 22, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

nOLIE:

B. Pena gone, M. Prado in Atlanta, B. Lillibridge in Richmond. Richmond’s gonna’ have a great team.

By 22oz

February 22, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this

Dave, Gonzalez is supposedly ahead of schedule and should be back by late May or early June is everything goes according to plan.

I see the Marlins finally got their stadium deal, good for them. Only 3 more years of god awful Dolphin Stadium. I get tired of just watching games on TV from that craphole.

By David O'Brien

February 22, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this

Dew is on the outfield, and there are dozens of fresh tracks visible coming from the door in the outfield fence that leads to the batting cage beyond. The tracks in the wet grass widen progressively, fan-like as they reach the infield, and … oh, hell, give me another cup of coffee.

By Bryan

February 22, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

I almost spit my coffee on my keyboard dave …

nicely done, good morning Denizens.

There is an awesome HIP-HOP sale on iTunes - 7.99 an album for some of the best albums of all time …

By ncscoots

February 22, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

DOB, re your 8:32…

Ring Lardner weeps at the beauty of it.

While Red Smith shoulders you aside at the coffee machine with a grunt that says “not bad”, LOL.

By ppaddy123

February 22, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

well DOB, at least there’s no frost on the punkin’

By doc

February 22, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this

good chuckle as the blog author dob makes his return to sign on for one more day. man it is raining still here 45 degrees and you are talking dew?.

By Sam Jam

February 22, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this

I’d rather hear “too high for the super market, too high for the grocery store, too high for the supermarket…aint gonna shop like this no more” by The Uninvited.

Go Braves!

By 22oz

February 22, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

That poetry pierces the utmost regions of my soul, plunging the depths of my burning desire for fungoes and wind sprints.

By Scott Boras

February 22, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

253 days 14 hours 28 minutes

By MGL

February 22, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this

Anders, some early morning news! Hope it makes your day.

http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/mets/ny-spmnotes225587405feb22,0,4303627.story?track=rss

By Javi's Padawan

February 22, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

FINALLY!!!

A song that I love from the band I love!!! LOL! The Clash rules! Strummer, the legend,r.i.p.

Great stuff from my homie Javi! I knew he’d make the team (will make the team). He was such a great influence to our team, that I thought we were going to sweep those yanks back in 96’ after observing Javi’s offensive explosion against the unfortunate Cardinals. Then, years later, when he hit 43 homers, I thought they were going to win as well. He really wanted to help the Braves win a title, he said so himself. His work ethic is admirable. I think he’ll be a leader out there. And as for Braves’ bench critics and pessimists, you are all wrong. This guy will boost the bench tremendously.

GO BRAVES IN 2008!!!!!!!!

By DAP

February 22, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

cameron chambers love the linuep you came up with. those are my thoughts exactly, except, i would have KJ leadoff and escobar bat second. i really dont think thats how it will go though. i think bobby will bat kotsay 2nd, escobar leadoff, and johnson down in the order…probably 7th. batting there will take advantage of his power more. i dont think KJ is a good #2 hitter. i would never bat him there, unless we had a big stolen base threat leading off.

the reason i feel that way is KJ takes alot of pitches (good if the guy on base is gonna be stealing) but he strikes out a good bit. you (by “you” i mean ME!) want to have a contact hitter type in the 2-hole if you can.

By DAP

February 22, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

the article above reminds me of when journalist jimmy would often lecture us on toe health.

now, a shortened pinky toe is giving el dookie balance issues! this could be a long year for el dookie.

ive also learned form this article that you cant pitch well if your tooth hurts. now i knew pitching took everybody part working in harmony to be any good. i underestimated the importance of healthy teeth for pitchers.

i wish jimmy was here to help us understand.

By Javi's Padawan

February 22, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

i don’t mind Javy getting a chance but if he shows his age and still can’t throw out a snail, hope we’ll get a look at Clint Sammons as backup C

Clint Sammons won’t be of same value pinch-hitting as Javi. Get that straight. Javi certainly won’t be a ‘disaster’ attempting to throw out base-stealers, so unless he gets injured, I don’t see Sammons getting a lot of playing time this year, considering Matt Diaz is our emergency catcher, and Penya won’t make it. If Penya can’t make it, I don’t see Sammons making it, much less Corky Miller.

By Ben

February 22, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

Regarding where Yunel should be in the order, let’s take a look at how Derek Jeter has done in the leadoff spot vs. #2. DOB has already compared the two players, so here we go:

Jeter as Leadoff Man for his career: 1830 AB, .317 BA, .390 OBP, .472 SLG, .862 OPS

Jeter as #2 in the order for his career: 4561 AB, .317 BA, .389 OBP, .466 SLG, .855 OPS

Man is he consistent or WHAT??

Just for kicks, Jeter’s OPS in the 7 and 8 spots respectively is .682 & .871, though only 170 and 73 ABs in those.

Bottom line: if Yunel’s hitting style is anything close to Jeter’s, he’ll do extremely well leading off or hitting second.

By McFann

February 22, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

ColoradoBravesFan—

I always thought it sounded like Phil Collins was saying “Oh Lord”, too.

OK, I’m ready to watch some baseball.

By MGL

February 22, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Lew - perhaps you could get our esteemed journalist jimmy smith and toe expert to make a guest appearance and comment on this new toe issue.

By DAP

February 22, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

Ben agreed on escobar. he could hit 1st or 2nd, no problem. the reason i want him hitting 2nd, is because i dont think Johnson can hit 2nd. Kelly johnson needs to either leadoff, or hit 7th this year.

By Ben

February 22, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

Let’s continue with Kelly’s stats at the leadoff, #2, and #7 positions in the order over his short career.

Kelly as Leadoff Man: 320 AB, .272 BA, .374 OBP, .453 SLG, .827 OPS

Kelly as #2 in batting order: 253 AB, .241 BA, .332 OBP, .407 SLG, .739 OPS

Kelly as #7 in batting order: 93 AB, .355 BA, .444 OBP, .602 SLG, 1.046 OPS

Given his success leading off, his struggles in the #2 hole, and his domination in the 7-spot, I don’t think he should bat 2nd. No matter where he hits, the delta between his BA and OBP is great, but maybe there’s just something holding back his ability to hit in the 2-hole. Originally I thought I liked the idea of Yunel, Kelly, Chip, Tex, McCann, Francoeur, Diaz, Kotsay. But now, I’ve decided the order should be as follows:

Yunel Diaz (1.058 OPS here in 73 AB) Chip Tex McCann/Frenchy Frenchy/McCann Kelly Kotsay

By Javi's Padawan

February 22, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

A word about last blog,…someone was saying how the tex deal was a bad move, and how we should’ve traded for Haren and stuff like that. While I agree that we could have gotten Haren, we would’ve also had a huge hole in first base, and less offense as well as less leadership. While I’m a fan of ‘good pitching beats good hitting’, I also felt the need for our best first baseman since Crime Dog McGriff (Galarraga only gave us one good year, and a miserable lack of stepping-up in the postseason/ LaRoche fell short to McGriff, I’m sorry/Ditto for Klesko)…

As much as I wanted Danny Haren on our team, we really needed a powerful guy last year as well as this year at the plate, to help us compete with the Mets and Phillies (how many games we play against each, over 20???), and having Glavine and a healthy Hampton will probably not make up for not having Haren, but will come very close to doing so.

I strongly believe this.

By Ben

February 22, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

DAP, clearly I agree with you 100%.

By David O'Brien

February 22, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Dave, 22oz answered correctly. First week or so of June is the ETA for Gonzalez.

Talked to him this morning. He feels great.

Gonna write a new blog, I’ll put some stuff about him in there

By David O'Brien

February 22, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

DAP, just for what it’s worth, Chipper wants Kotsay hitting second, says he makes better contact than Kelly, but Kelly has more power.

I’ll put some stuff about that in blog, too.

OK, gonna write it now. It takes a few extra minutes these days because we have a couple of grammar police here and I feel bad when I don’t edit for their benefit.

By scoreboard

February 22, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB:

When real pitchers throw batting practice in spring training, what sort of stuff do they throw? Are they just pumping fastballs, or are they using all their pitches as they would in a game? If so, do the batters know what pitch is coming?

By Javi's Padawan

February 22, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

…and if Tex leaves, it’s not the end of the world either.

Hayward will be with us soon, so maybe we would need some ‘one-year-guy’ for 2009 while Hayward gets more seasoning in the minors and then he would be called midsummer of 2009 so it’s not like no hope for 2009, plus we can work on getting Blanton or Haren or Bedard if we have a chance, considering Glavine and Hampton leave, and Smoltz…oh who am I kidding, Smoltz is Smoltz. I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again: Smoltz is going to be the next Satchel Paige, in the sense that he’ll still be durable during his forties and beyond. So mets fans can brag all they want about ‘the old guy’, so I don’t care. Besides, they brag about smoltz but they have ‘old guys’ themselves in El Duque, Pedro, Billy Wagner, Delgado, Moises Alou, and others I missed out.

By kdbanks

February 22, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

Since we’ve pretty much beaten the emergency catcher question to death, I propose a new topic. In the opening game, what kind of pitch sequence should Hudson throw to the first batter.

I propose the following:

Pitch 1: Slider (strike outside low corner)

Pitch 2: Splitter (ball, low and away)

Pitch 3: Splitter (swung on and missed, low and inside)

Pitch 4: Slider (fouled off, low and away)

Pitch 5: Splitter (grounded to KJ for the out)

Thoughts?

By DAP

February 22, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

maybe el dookie’s tooth hurts because its so long.

By David O'Brien

February 22, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

scoreboard, pitchers aren’t just pumping fastballs. they’re using their entire repertoire, but early on they might be working on this pitch or that and not throwing as hard as they will in a week or two.

By TennesseePaul

February 22, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

unless you are afraid that if Martin stays that Bobby will break down to the temptation to platoon them at some point

We have a winner.

By ncscoots

February 22, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

while Hayward gets more seasoning in the minors

MORE seasoning? Jeez, bud, Heyward has played all of 12 games professionally; think you might want to let him get at least a few hundred minor league AB before you pencil him in for the big club?

By DAP

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

DOB i hope bobby feels the same way chipper and i do, that KJ shouldnt bat 2nd. im pretty sure with kotsay on the team, we wont see KJ in the two hole, which is good.

By Ben

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

I guess if Chip wants Kotsay second, he’ll probably be second. But that means Diaz moves down to the 7 or 8 spot. I just don’t feel like his incredible hitting ability gives us enough returns down there. While Kotsay’s career numbers are best in the leadoff spot, and decrease steadily as he drops down in the order, his career OPS batting second is only .764. Batting leadoff it’s .786. And that’s his best OPS of any position in the lineup. He’s just not that great a hitter. (By the way, his BA in those two spots is in the .280-.290 range, but is OBP is only in the .340-.350 range, while Yunel’s and Diaz’s are higher.)

Even if Kotsay is better than Diaz at making contact without regard for whether he ends up getting on base (I’m not sure he is, but just assuming he is), the stats tell us that Diaz is better at getting on base than Kotsay. Isn’t it better to have a guy batting 2nd in the order who can not only hit the ball, but not produce outs? Of course. So that’s why Diaz and not Kotsay should bat second.

By McFann

February 22, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

Grammar police? Gee, are there really grammar police around here?

8 )

By ncscoots

February 22, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

So that’s why Diaz and not Kotsay should bat second.

Good grief. You think the idea of Kotsay batting 2 might have something to do with the fact that he’s had 5000+ ML AB, and Diaz has fewer than 800 (and not even 400 in a single season)?

Matt might be the second coming of Ted Williams (according to some bloggers), but a little proven reliability, by someone such as Kotsay, tends to be more enticing.

By doc

February 22, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

dob tohellwiththegrammerpoliceiftheyneedpunctuationandcapsthatistheirproblemspellerpolicetookeepupthegoodjob

By Ben

February 22, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Matt might be the second coming of Ted Williams (according to some bloggers), but a little proven reliability, by someone such as Kotsay, tends to be more enticing.

Look, I don’t think Matt Diaz is Ted Williams, or even Wade Boggs. But the guy can hit, anywhere in the lineup. He’s played a lot of games for us now, and his ability to hit can’t be called a fluke. On the other hand, Kotsay has proven his ability to hit…for an OPS in the mid to upper .700s, including an OBP of less than .350. The guy won’t mind hitting at the bottom of the order. He knows he’s just bridging the gap to Schafer. He seems thrilled just to be on the team.

I don’t really understand your logic, ncsoots. The “reliability” you speak of I guess could be called a “known commodity,” based purely on the number of ABs. I guess you look only at the number of ABs Kotsay and Diaz have, and conclude that Kotsay is more “enticing” because he has 6 times as many as Diaz has in the 2-spot. Why not look at how each player has actually performed in the 2-spot? It’s not like Diaz has these great numbers based only on 50 ABs. I’d rather have a slightly less-known commodity that excels rather than a known commodity that’s mediocre.

By ippississiM

February 22, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Anybody else watching Bull Durham on AMC?

By DAP

February 22, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

why is the discussion for the 2-hole being limited to diaz or kotsay? what? i think escobar should hit there. hes the same type of hitter as renteria.

By David O'Brien

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

NEW BLOG

By McFann

February 22, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Haha!! Good one, Doc.

By Jim

February 22, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

I say put Francoeur in as a closer. Put him in right field. Play the Superman theme and let him close the game. You can save money, have more pitchers available to get to the end of the game, and the fans would love it. He couldn’t do worse than we’ve seen! If you can hit home from right field, I know that you can throw a strike from 66 feet!

By Keeping It Real

February 23, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

It is amazing how the comments keep referring to the slowest outfield in the majors and who will hit second. This will be a very boring team if they do not hit any homers. Go Druw and the Dodgers.

By ESPN Analyst

February 23, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

I absolutely agree with one of the previous comments! Well said!