Braves

By woogidy

February 24, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

hmmm. nice job. tell him to get some extra stretching in and some extra fielding practice if he’s gonna be inducing more ground balls. I’ll never forget that play when he went rolling over to first base…

By Austin

February 24, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the new blog!!!

By Section 412

February 24, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Loving the new blogs most every day during Spring Training. The info you give gets us ready for the season, too. Often these blogs simply become arguments over who is going to beat who, etc. The truth is, we don’t know until the season starts - injuries, trades, hot streaks, and the like often swing the pendulum. In the meantime, keep the great info coming as the teams get ready to go - looking forward to seeing some of the new faces take the field.

By Marla

February 24, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

Thanks for blogging on the weekend. Just want to say that I am so excited that baseball is starting back up and can’t wait to see the Braves in action. The Braves are such a classy oganization from the front office down to the coaches, players, scouts, etc. Sometimes we take that for granted-but after seeing the debacle that was the Falcons this year, I appreciate it even more. I have enjoyed your blog for some time and always look forward to reading the real story of what’s going on along with your unique style. Thanks.

By richbrave

February 24, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

Smoltz or Hudson SP. Escobar Johnson Jones Teixeira Francouer McCann Diaz Kotsey.

Score after one. 3-0!!!! GO BRAVES!!!!

By brian

February 24, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

one more thing about Hansbrough - I am a big Hanbrough fan, but agree it is way off base to talk about him as the best ever in the ACC. However, it is equally off base to call him the most overrated player in the ACC. Hansbrough is a great college player who will probably be average in the pros. He should and will have his jersey retired at Carolina but unless he leads them to the title he will not even be in the top 5 players in UNC history much less the ACC history. He is a great example to all children about playing hard, getting rebounds, playing defense, getting the loose ball, and staying out of trouble.

He deserves every mention he gets as national player of the year as does Beasley. Player of the year does not go to the person who scores the most. The highest scoring average does not make you the best player.

Again - way too big a reach to call Hansbrough the best in the ACC history and agree he in not in the top 20 (and beyond), but it is also way too big a reach to call him the most overrated player in ACC history as well (that would be a busy blog)

By richbrave

February 24, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

FOGERTY?:

Now you’re hittin’ on all eight. That’s my genre of music. Groovin’ to sounds I know somethin’ about. Thanks for the blast from the past.

By Cherokee Parks

February 24, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Hansbrough will not be any good in the NBA

By Eric Montross

February 24, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

Don’t worry Hansbrough. I’ve got your back. You will at least be as good as me in the pros.

By Bobby's Cox

February 24, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

Love your daily scoops DOB. You’re hard work and dedication is greatly appreciated.

Hopefully smotlz’s arm is ready when he takes the mound in april. I’d hate to see his “competitive juices” take over with a non-condition arm in front of 30,000-50,000 fans in april. But i like his new approach. Everything smoltz threw before was hard. Thought he always should take some power off his pitches to create more movement and keep hitters off-balance. Can’t wait to see the results in 5 weeks. Damn that seems so long!

By ole timerbrave

February 24, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB John Fogerty’s Centerfield is my favorite.

Good article on Smoltz, he is a masterpiece.

I think this is my 3rd post after reading everyday for yrs. Thanks for the updates and the news. I love this time of year. I’m hoping next year to be at Spring Traing with my grandkid.

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

Bobby’s gonna wait until tomorrow to announce the pitching plans.

They are probably going to move Chuck up a week, as of now. That would have him pitch on about March 13. If he keeps having good results the next week or so, they might move that up a bit more, but he’s not going to pitch the first week or more in spring games. Still doesn’t look likely to be ready for opening day rotation, but that’s not certain….

BRIAN, agreed: I never called Tyler the most overrated player in the ACC. Not at all.

I only objected to the absurdity of calling him the best player in the history of the league.

By Braveheart

February 24, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

Looks like Dennis Dixon won’t be coming back to the Braves minor leagues this summer.

Not the biggest shock or loss in the world I suppose.

One thing he isn’t planning for is a return to the baseball diamond. A fifth-round draft pick of the Atlanta Braves last June, Dixon spent a few weeks in the middle of last summer playing in the minor leagues before returning to Oregon for his senior season. But Dixon said he intends to tell the Braves that he won’t play baseball this summer, in part because the knee injury kept him from preparing for the season. “Football is totally my forte right now,” Dixon said. “Baseball was, but right now football has my attention. … Things just changed.”

By flange1

February 24, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

DOB,

If Chuckie comes in #6 in the race for 5 starters, do you see the Braves keeping him in the bullpen or letting him start the year starting games in Richmond?

By Bobby's Cox

February 24, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

Here’s my prediction this year:

This season will be a breeze for the braves. They have an incredible lineup 1-9, (hampton, glavine, and smoltz are good hitters as well) a good, young, and hungry bench, and a solid bullpen that will only get stronger as the season progresses. They will easily will around 100 games again, and finish a good 8-12 games ahead of the 2nd place mets or phils.

The braves have the 3rd best team in baseball, and if the hitting and/or pithcing stays solid in the postseason, this team is world series bound, as either the pitching or hitting can carry this team on any given night. There are other good teams in the NL, but no team is as solid in all areas (starting pitching, hitting, bullpen)and have has much depth in case injuries occur.

This team will be on the positive end of many blowouts, allowing pitchers and starting position players to rest and stay fresh year-long. That will give the young bench (prado, anderson) more experience. It will also help javy lopez in the long run and allow b. mac to rest his legs.

The top teams in MLB this year will be the Red Sox, Indians, Tigers, Mariners in the AL, and Braves, Brewers, Mets, and like last year, the rest of the spots are up for grabs (dodgers, d-backs, rockies, phils, cubs, astros, padres).

No other team in the NL will be able to keep winning if their star players get injured.

By McFann

February 24, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

Ole timerbrave

I’m with you. Centerfield is Fogerty’s best song. Every time I hear it, I want to watch some baseball!!

By McFann

February 24, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

They have an incredible lineup 1-9, (hampton, glavine, and smoltz are good hitters as well)

Don’t forget Hudson and his .263 average! He was our best hittin’ pitcher in 2007.

By MacdWolfpack

February 24, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Dave agree wholeheartedly on Hansbrough. In a game of one on one he’d have a hard time staying with eitther Thompson,Jordan, or Lenny Bias. Thompson and Jordan would block his shot because they could jump out the gymn, and both would beat him off the dribble. To say Hansbrough is in the top 4 in the history of the ACC is blaspemy!

By BravesFanInRockies

February 24, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

DOB,

OK, so Hansbrough may not be the best in ACC history. I still think — considering the totality of his career; his statistical performances and how much better he made his team — he’s a top 10 if he leaves this year and should be a top 5 if he stays one more. (Not in the top 20, brian? Please.)

Agreed, though, that if MJ had played in Roy’s system Michael would have scored much more. And the Heels might have won another title or two.

As admirable as all the “no I in team” stuff may be that El Deano preached, there are times you need to let your best player put the team on his back if that’s what it takes to win. Dean didn’t really believe in that. Roy (and I’d say all of his successful contemporaries) do.

By Chop Chop

February 24, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Tyler Hansbrough is like a frontcourt version of Matt Harpring: a great college player who should be able to carve out a solid career for himself in the pros, but one who will never get to the line as much in the NBA as he does in college. It’s an absolute joke for that guy to get as many free throw attempts as he does. Not only does Hansbrough get the benefit of the doubt from the refs when he’s banging people around when he gets a rebound; he also gets cheap calls on the offensive end. He’s the white version of Dwyane Wade. All he has to do is flop around and he goes to the line.

(I could go on and on…)

Anyway, go Braves.

By Ted

February 24, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

Dave,

I just read this snippet from a NY Times article about Sandy Koufax.

In the past, Koufax has taken special interest in the Mets’ left-handers, tutoring Shawn Estes, Al Leiter, John Franco and Tom Glavine, among others. Sometimes, the lessons have overflowed into exclusive dinners. His project Saturday was Wagner, specifically developing his curveball. Wagner requested the private session.

I’d love to hear what Glavine would be willing to tell about Koufax.

Thanks.

By BravesFanInRockies

February 24, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

MacdWolfpack,

We’re not talking about who’s the most physically talented player or who’d win a one-on-one game. That’s why the NBA exists.

Here’s my Top 10 ACC players since 1970, since that’s the time I’ve been watching hoops, based on what they did over three or four seasons:

In alphabetical order:

Shane Battier Len Bias Tim Duncan Phil Ford Tyler Hansbrough Michael Jordan Christian Laettner Mark Price Ralph Sampson David Thompson

Tough call between Price and John Lucas. I picked Price because he could take over games as a scorer and frankly Lucas rarely needed to because he had more help. Big game James — my favorite all-time Tar Heel — didn’t make the cut because he played only two seasons. Two years or less doesn’t count as a college career IMO.

By RichmondBrave

February 24, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

I can’t wait for the season to start; eventhough, I will have to watch the games on my computer. We don’t have SS or peachnetwork up here in the north.
Having Glavine back is going to make a huge difference, and the offence is going to be awesome without AJ in the lineup. It’s gonna be a fun year, and we WILL be in the postseason this year. Go Braves!

By BravesFanInRockies

February 24, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop,

(I’m leaving this topic soon, I promise—)

Hansbrough gets to the line so much not because he flops but because when his defender isn’t set he gets in their chest and doesn’t back away after contact. Kinda like Karl Malone. Who used to drive me nuts, because I hated the Jazz. Effective way to play if you’re strong enough to take the punishment, though.

By Bravosimos

February 24, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

DOB

If Chucky isn’t ready, is it pretty much JJ’s job to lose? And if that’s the case, then is the only way he’d lose the job during the season if he pitched bad? Where does that leave Chuck? Any trade rumors, possibly from those guys out of options?

By BravesFanInRockies

February 24, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

Changing the subject—

This just in: Lidge to have his knee scoped, could miss the regular season opener.

By MacdWolfpack

February 24, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

Braves fan in the Rockies you obviously did not see either Thompson,Jordan,or Len Bias play in person or you wouldn’t even make such silly statements.

By StingerSplash

February 24, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

Great insight, DOB, into the drive that compels Smoltz. He’s not playing for another fat paycheck. That winning stuff is mighty addictive once it’s in your veins. Gotta weigh in on Hansborough. He might be one of the top 5 ACC players this decade once it’s said and done, but in no way does he compare to Len Bias (still heartbroken over him after thinking the Cs were never gonna lose again after drafting him), David Thompson (best hops not in a beer), Worthy, Perkins, Mark Price, Johnny Dawkins, Phil Ford, Buck Williams … I said when he was a freshman that Josh Howard at Wake was going to be a huge stud and he was. Hansborough is not better than he is as a collegian and won’t be as a pro.

By Epinephrine

February 24, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

Would be much obliged if anyone could post the Chipper Jones Bustner Olney article.

By BravesFanInRockies

February 24, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

MacdWolfpack,

Actually I saw everyone but Thompson play in person. I was at Carolina from 75-79 and worked for the university from 82-89. Saw a bunch of games at Carmichael, Greensboro, Charlotte, Dean Dome, Reynolds and even Cameron.

That’s why they all made my Top 10.

By ncgary

February 24, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this

dean smith was the greatest defensive coach of all time you know, the only coach who could hold michael jordan to under 20 points a game

By AdirondackDave

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

Don’t know much about this basketball stuff you guys talk about but did anybody watch the Accenture Match-play golf today? Tiger won so easily it was just spooky. Has anybody ever dominated a sport like this, even Jordan?

By Metropolitan Man

February 24, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

WoW…last year I bought some Time Warner stock thinking it would be a good investment. Now I got people calling me telling me what do I want to do about a 4th or 5th starter. I was so confused and asked them what were they talking about. Come to find out that with my Time Warner stock purchase, I am now part owner of the braves franchise. So without further or do, finish 3rd or below and I will start the contraction paperwork from Atlanta ……only problem is where do I send you????

Former Braves pitcher Rick Camp, now 55, is attempting to rebuild his life after serving 21 months in prison. Camp was convicted for his role in a conspiracy to steal more than $2 million from a mental health facility.

After reading this, its evident he really loved the braves. At least he tried to raise money to sign a player!!!!

If your not smiling yet, then you must be a braves fan.

LETS GO METS!!!

By brian

February 24, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

you didn’t call him the most overrated player in the ACC but a post you commented on did.

I am fired up about the Braves season this year for the first time in probably 10 years. Nice mix of youth and experiene. The addition of Glavine is so important for this team - not simply for his on the field performance but for his off the field intangibles. Glavine’s leadership will not only help the younger Braves but will also help Smoltz and Chipper. The past few years so much attention and pressure was placed on Smoltz to be the leader by himself without Glavine and Maddux. Now Smoltz can just relax and do his thing on the field without the focus solely on him. It will also help Chipper - he never struck me as the vocal team leader in the locker room or in front of the media. That will fall to Glavine. We can leave to Chipper the big games at New York like a few years ago - every big game, every big at bat he gave the Mets nightmares.

Look at the rotation of Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, Hampton (big IF I know), and Jair/James/JoJo. Escobar is not a utility guy who peaked in his first year (if he ever needed any motivation I hope someone pinned that article at his locker). I bet we will platoon the leadoff spot with Escobar and Johnson with the other hitting in the 8 spot.

Escobar/Johnson, Kotsay, Jones, Tex, McCann, Frenchy, Diaz, the Johnson/Escobar - solid lineup. Good power in the middle but good contact as well. This is not your older brothers hitting team with a lot of 40 homer hitters with 150+ strikeouts a piece.

Bullpen is solid and deep as well. I would love to see Lillebridge in the majors getting 1 start out of 5 in CF and 1 in 5 at 2B while also giving Escobar the occasional day off with Brandon Jones platooning with Diaz.

I hope the Braves are exhausted in November from all their october work.

Give it a rest NC gary - Dean Smith coached fundamental basketball. MJ would not have been the player he was if he did not play for Dean Smith in college. Again, basketball is a team sport and Dean Smith never ran the I offense. part of the greatness of Jordan - one of the best fundamental players and best practice players (take note AI) to go along with being arguably the best NBA player of all time

By PatioDaddio

February 24, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

Just to get you up to speed…Bush was elected President, The Cubs can play night games because they have have lights and Liberty owns the Braves.

By PatioDaddio

February 24, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this

And with the little bit of stock transfer it won’t empower you to have access to the bat boy’s dog..

By Austin

February 24, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

Hansborogh is going to be like Noah from Florida in the NBA. A high energy player but with a much more positive attitude.

By ncgary

February 24, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

give it a break? ewe never heard of a joke

By Metropolitan Man

February 24, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this

I seet he tone on this blog changes from week to week and day to day no matter what DOB writes about. You guys go from I dont care what the analyst think to I’m glad we are under the radar. Bottom line is with all the improving Wren did by being J.S. puppet and taking the credit, he made a better 2008 braves team then 2007. The only problem is so did the METS and philthies. Now Perez is happy because he got his money (at least for 1 season) so that means the braves killer is happier than before…..not good for you.

By Paladin

February 24, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

DOB said doo do in his song. lol

By McFann

February 24, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

PatioDaddio—

Good stuff at 6:35 & 6:39!! That was funny!

By MetsPussyCat

February 24, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this

Hey Metropolitan Man I own some Time Warner stock too….do I get a vote? lol

LETS GO METS!!!

By ncscoots

February 24, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

BFIR, Love ya, man, but, I swear, if you bring up that Heels’ guy again, I’m gonna hunt you down and make you do the hurt dance. :-)

While I find it interesting that Smoltz feels the need to re-invent, I fear the possibility that he becomes overly enamored of sinkers, curveballs, and changeups. Because I don’t have any doubt that the man can come out of ST with those pitches at ML quality, and any human has the tendency to play with the new toys versus the old. And I sure would miss the look on hitters’ faces after missing that slider by a foot.

By PatioDaddio

February 24, 2008 7:25 PM | Link to this

Prediction

Braves Phillies Nats Mets Marlins

LETS GO NATS!!!

By N8

February 24, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

I’m baack everybody! Come on, tell me how much you love me. (wink)lol. DOB, you know how negative I can be, but I will go ahead and say it. John Smoltz needs to go back to his splitter!!! There, go ahead, give me my reaming! (wink) At this stage in his career he doesn’t need to be changing anything. He just needs to go with what’s been working baby!!! (wink) I realize that I don’t know everything, but I know more than most everybody on this blog. Just kidding folks! (wink) Come on, show me some love everyone. Oh and Davy, I will be waiting for my reaming! (wink)

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

Flange, I don’t think Chuck’s gonna be ready to begin the season with the major league club anyway. I’d guess he’ll probably start out on the DL at Richmond and move right into a rehab stint there, in their rotation to begin the Triple-A season or shortly thereafter.

But let’s give it a couple weeks and we’ll probably know a lot more.

By McFann

February 24, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

Got something stuck in your eye, Neight?

; )

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

Adirondack, I can think of other guy who’s dominated like Tiger: Roger Federer in tennis….

Brian, MJ “arguably” the best NBA player? I don’t think it’s really open for argument. Michael’s the best, or was. For me (Bobby speak), Wilt’s the only one who can be compared to him, really. I know Russell won more championships and Kareem won more in the same era and all that, but for greatest player, to me it’s Michael followed by Wilt.

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop, Tyler’s game is in no way, not even the slightest bit, reminiscent of D. Wade. Please.

By Braveheart

February 24, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

From Chicago Sun Times:

MESA, Ariz. - Another day at Cubs camp, another trip to the hospital for a non-baseball issue.

This time it was right-hander Jose Ascanio, who was sent to the hospital today to be examined for injuries suffered Saturday night in a one-sided fistfight at a Scottsdale convenience store.

Ascanio, the reliever acquired from Atlanta in December for Will Ohman, was not seriously injured but suffered bruises and abrasions to the left side of his face.

He got beat up pretty good last night,'' manager Lou Piniella said.He got punched a few times by a guy that was looking for some money. He didn’t get robbed. But the guy asked for money and evidently the young man said, `I don’t have any money,’ and the guy punched him a few times.”

Piniella said Ascanio’s left eye was closed and his face was swollen. The pitcher wore dark glasses in the clubhouse today.

Pitchers had a scheduled day off so Ascanio didn’t miss any work on the mound, and he’s expected to be back on the field Monday, Piniella said.

If I need some food from now on, I'm going to have room service,'' Piniella quipped.I’m not making light of it. But those are things that aren’t common occurrences.”

The strangeness around an otherwise quiet Cubs camp began Friday, when center fielder Felix Pie missed a workout to have an unusual, but minor, medical procedure in his Australian region (think land down under), and continued Saturday with the hospitalization of Mark DeRosa over an irregular heartbeat.

It's amazing,'' Piniella said.We haven’t had any groins. We haven’t had any hamstrings. We haven’t had any shoulders or elbows. And we’ve had all these other types of injuries that are not normal.”

By jelloboy10

February 24, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

JJ Redick…greatest player in ACC history.

By William

February 24, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

DOB Dropped an email about our experience today with a couple pictures.

By Niels Boor

February 24, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this

‘Ppears like ever’body an’ their bubba’s taken to postin’ highly annoyin’ lyrics on thisyere blog. (Not, you, DOB.)

I guess the saps’re risin’, it bein’ Spring Trainin’ ‘n’ all.

Well, I’d be proud to jump on that there band wagon my own self:

She use’ta be mine,

But she done left me—

She got real cold,

Now my Coquette’s gawn.

(Gawn down the line …)

(I blame you, McFann, for making it look so easy and come out so smart.)

;-)

By N8

February 24, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

Needless to say the 7:31 post was not from me.

Out.

By Niels Boor

February 24, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

Basketball???

Okay.

What the NBA oughta do to spice up the All Star break — I think everybody’s pretty jaded by the dunk and 3-point contests — is have a free throw shooting contest.

Only, the contestants would be the league’s worst free throw shooters. Maybe the worst five from each conference, or just the ten worst league-wide.

It oughta be a hoot for the fans, and may just embarrass a few of the players into taking the necessary steps to assure that they’re not gonna be participating during the next All Star break.

There you go — my one cogent NBA thought.

By JB Braves

February 24, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

DOB, is it just me or is everyone else about 90% sure that Tyler Yates is gonna get traded before the season starts. To me, he was right there with Villarreal and Paronto as arms to get rid of, taking up idle space in the bullpen. I think Jeff Bennett, Royce Ring, Phil Stockman would be upgrades, and I’d actually have more confidence in Schrieber and Resop. (I didn’t mention Morton because he’s going to be at AAA starting.)

By brian

February 24, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

the only reason I said arguably is that there are so many Carolina haters on this board, I did not want to read the rest of the blog on who the greatest in NBA history is. I would say Jordan. I thought you may say Wilt. Didn’t want to make waves. And yes I would agree Wilt is number 2 and then there is a drop to #3.

By brian

February 24, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

Hansbrough may not be Beasley, but averaging 28 points and 13 boards in the last 7 ACC contests is not too shabby

By raindawg722

February 24, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

I bet Smoltz is learning to pitch left-handed.

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this

JB Braves, it’s just you….

Brian, Jordan transcends Carolina. How can any basketball fan not like Jordan? I mean, that’d be like, I don’t know, not liking Joe Montana because you don’t like Notre Dame.

By BravesFanInRockies

February 24, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

scoots,

Won’t mention the guy again (on this post, anyway). :-)

But REDICK? Puh-leeze. Talk about your one-dimensional player. Even Dickie (Coach K is greater than Jesus) V now admits Redick was overrated.

By JB Braves

February 24, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

Well DOB, what is so special about Yates. He lacks control and seems to falter in crucial situations. He can throw 95, but that doesn’t do a whole lot when it’s outside of the strikezone or a gimme right over the plate.

By Niels Boor

February 24, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this

Braveheart—

I think somebody should start keeping track of all the ex-Braves who get somehow snakebit before and during this season (don’t want to go back too far, or it’ll become meaningless, as if it wouldn’t be already).

But, who do we have so far — Aybar, DeRosa, Ascanio — even Sheffield, kinda. Well, maybe not him — he has a history of biting his own snake on a regular basis.

So anyway, whaddaya think? (I nominate you to document the “Braves’ Curse”, of course.)

By sean

February 24, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

David, do you think the braves may start Glavine 2nd? It seems that Hudson talked about either him our smoltz being 3rd two break up the r/l. hudson,glavine,smoltz,hampton,j.jur.?

By Jim H.

February 24, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is the man……ain’t nobody I would rather see on the mound in a playoff game. I have a good feeling about this season (and it’s a real feeling this time…..not just a wishful feeling like the last couple of years). The added pitching depth is gonna make a HUGE difference.

DOB….I was at the Fogerty concert in Atlanta in December. It was Friggin’ awesome…..a smokin’ almost 3 hour show. I never dreamed I would ever hear those great CCR songs live (plus plenty of his excellent solo stuff). Don’t let anyone tell you a 60 year old can’t still rock…..He even did Ramble Tamble……oh my god, what great stuff!

By Metropolitan Man

February 24, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

PatioDaddio: I’ve been bloggin so much that I havent had a chance to open mail. So thats what this stack of mail is…a bunch if Liberty Media junk telling me they now own the braves and my stock is still good. What to do what to do. The batboy’s dog is sitting in my lap now telling me to start him at 3b and I’m incline to oblige. Also when did they start playing night games and when did we get a “Bush in office”?

METSPUSSYCAT: With a name like that you know you get a vote. What should the stockholders do to raise money for the upcoming “Boras/Tex” fiasco we will have to deal with down the line. Mever mind that, he’s not going to stay anyway. The “rent a player” saga sadly continues!!!!

LETS GO METS, then nats, then marlins, then philthies, and thats about it!!!!!

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

Good start to the acting awards, Javier Bardim for supporting actor from No Country For Old Men.

I thought him or Philip Seymour Hoffman from Charlie Wilson’s War were equally deserving.

I’d love to see Ellen Paige win best actress for Juno, but don’t know if she can overcome the woman from La Vien Rose.

If Daniel Day-Lewis doesn’t win best actor, there should be an investigation.

OK, so what’s going to win best picture. Get your votes in now. We’ve got a couple hours or so.

I’m gonna go with No Country For Old Men.

By BravesFanInRockies

February 24, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

Back to baseball. DOB, if Smoltz can indeed reinvent himself and he starts turning in Maddux-like performances n his 40s (say, 80-pitch CGs), is there any doubt he’ll be a first-ballot HOF?

What a pleasure to watch this guy work over the years.

By i can't take it anymore

February 24, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

david- thanks for the smoltz article.

By Niels Boor

February 24, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this

DOB—

And Edwin Moses in hurdles?

By Austin

February 24, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

Joe Montana

Is one of the most overrated Quarterback’s of all time.

By james

February 24, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this

DOB, what do you think the chances the braves take a chance and trade for Matt Bush from the padres? Also, who do you think they might give up?

By Metropolitan Man

February 24, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

Hers a snipet ffrom last weeks SI. Not sure if you guys saw this but it was too intersting not to post.

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

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

Link:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/baseball/mlb/02/18/bp.NLeastpreview/index.html

By McFann

February 24, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

Sorry, Niels. ; )

By Noch-a-homa

February 24, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

DOB

Great article on Smoltz. He is amazing! Think about the the adjustments he has made in his career: starter, closer, starter, occasional sidearm, and now curveball and becoming more efficient. Whatever it takes to get the job done, whatever it takes to win. That is big time stuff. He is a pro and best of all he is a Brave.

Regarding Chuck James: if he’s healthy and IF Hampton is healthy I do not see the Braves carrying three LHP in the starting roation; two yes, three no. What do you (anyone) think?

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

Very strong entry, Niels Boor. Very strong. Ran track in high school, and Edwin was a hero. Lived in Newport Beach, Calif., one year, and I was running on the huge grass field area at UC Irvine, where they have several football and soccer fields side-by-side (it’s where USC has training camp each year before the football season).

Anyway, I’m running and I see this unmistakable figure taking these long, loping strides as he’s running toward me. It’s freakin’ Edwin Moses. He runs right past. I said something stupid like, ‘Right on, Edwin,’ and he sort of waved and smiled as he loped past.

It was a great moment for me. For any track fan, he was The Man.

Ok, back to Oscars. Coen Bros. just won for screenplay. Another fine choice.

By brian

February 24, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

I guess I cannot vote for Gladiator for best picture?

Has anyone even seen these movies?

By Mike S

February 24, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this

I vote for There Will Be Blood for best picture. I saw all of the best picture noms except for Atonement and think TWBB just beats out Juno, in my opinion. All were great, great movies though.

I really hope Daniel Day-Lewis wins best actor as well. He was robbed a few years back for Gangs of New York. It better not happen again this time…

We’re waiting another hour or so to watch the DVR’d version of the awards. It’s nice to be able to fast forward through the commercials and all the boring/awkward speeches. Guess I better not check back on here for a little bit, so you guys can blog freely about it and I won’t get spoiled.

By Braveheart

February 24, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

One reason you can’t take any current college player too seriously in best of all time talk is because college basketball is so darn watered down these days. So many kids who should be playing college ball are playing in the pros. It is hard to believe Hansbrough would have the same success and be held in the same esteem if he had to compete with the following this season:

Seniors: Arron Afflalo, Corey Brewer, JamesOn Curry, Glen Davis, Jeff Green, Taurean Green, Al Horford, Dominic McGuire, Joakim Noah, Ramon Sessions, Jason Smith, Sean Williams, Nick Young LaMarcus Aldridge Jordan Farmar Rudy Gay Daniel Gibson Tedric Hill Kyle Lowry Patrick O’Bryant Randolph Morris Marvin Williams Al Jefferson Robert Swift Sebastian Telfair Jackie Butler Dwight Howard Shaun Livingston J.R. Smith Josh Smith Dorell Wright

Juniors Wilson Chandler, Josh McRoberts Rodney Stuckey Marcus Williams Julian Wright Tyrus Thomas Shawne Williams Andray Blatche Andrew Bynum Monta Ellis Gerald Green Amir Johnson C.J. Miles Martell Webster Louis Williams

Sophomores Mike Conley Daequan Cook Javaris Crittenton Kevin Durant Spencer Hawes Greg Oden Brandan Wright Thaddeus Young

By ColoradoBravesFan

February 24, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

DOB, Saw Acosta throwing in one of today ST photos. Have you seen himpitch yet, and how’s he been doing? I really liked how effective he was last year and hope he makes the team out of ST.

GO BRAVOS…

By Metropolitan Man

February 24, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

Here’s a legitimate question braves nation:

Would Maddox, and Glavine still have won over 300 games if post Quest Tec era??? The reason the question is legitimate is because we all know braves pitchers got the 6” off the plate call all throughout the 90’s. Granted Smoltz was the only power pitcher of that group and would have had made his 300 barring injuries and the bullpen duties. How many pitchers left the braves and duplicated the success they had there in the 90’s on other teams besides Glavine and Maddox who seem to get calls more off reputation thatn actual execution nowadays? I cant think of any and probably neither can you. I now realize all the success you garnered was because you ran a tight ship and had a great farm system and the big bucks you had with Ted that no longer exist. Looking at all this brings to the conclusion we have known for 2 years….the streak is over and so is the winning ways. Just remember you should have capitalized back then, because as you tell METS fans, its hard to repeat, and for the braves its just harder to get there again.

By brian

February 24, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

I just don’t like Joe Montana (and coincidently I don’t like Notre Dame but you are right no relation). I was always a Dan Marino fan growing up (even had my pair of Isotoner gloves) and I also liked Steve Young.

Good point though. Part of Jordan’s greatness is he is one of the few athletes that can transcend a sport like that. Not many of those out there.

Great article on Smoltz. Wish I could see more Braves in person.

Who would be the darkhorse this year to make the team and make a contribution? Charlie Morton taking the 5th starter position? Lillebridge being our superutility guy playing 3 games out of 5? Brandon Jones taking LF to himself making Diaz trade bait?

Any predictions?

By Niels Boor

February 24, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

Yeah, DOB, I’m with Ted.

(And people keep saying that Glavine was and will be a mentor, based apparently on nothing but their own wishful thinking.)

By Austin

February 24, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

DOB

Barry Bonds? No Way! Isin’t he that skinny left-fielder for the Pirates?

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

No, MetroMan, we haven’t seen that about Escobar. Thanks a lot. You’re on top of things, always.

Hey, did you hear the rumor about Barry Bonds? Some folks believe he might have been on some sort of performance-enhancing drug or something….

But seriously, dude, you really need to work on the accuracy. It was SI.com, not SI, and it was not “last week’s issue,” it was an online scouting report by someone from Baseball Prospectus that SI.com is using for its previews.

An SI.com writer, Jon Donovan, was quite surprised when we showed him that preview, by the way.

And you should have heard Ken Rosenthal, who was at camp today. He hadn’t heard about that thing, and when he saw what had been written, he, too, was at a loss for words.

I think what everyone who knows baseball has said about that review of Escobar is, if you don’t want to put any stock in his outstanding stats last season, then just watch the young man play. I mean, if you know baseball, you can’t watch him play and come away thinking he’s a mere utility infielder who “peaked” after his first season in the majors.

But hey, long as folks like MetroClown will bite….

By ColoradoBravesFan

February 24, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

Hey, one of the mets blogs has a Robert too. Mets in trouble already if El Duque and Pelfrey don’t pitch and pitch well.

Comment by firemetmanagementorboycott 2008-02-24 17:45:59 Im back to get my points across. El Duque is a waste of roster space and should be released ASAP. This clown has cost the Mets countless of times in a big spot. Where were you in the 2006 Playoffs??? You bailed out on the Mets, you gutless fool. Throw this guy out like yesterday’s garbage.

Also, I’m sick of getting attacked by all of you Kool-aid drinkers. When I make my points across, it’s for all of you to learn something important about the game of baseball. But the fact is that none of you buffoons will ever take me seriously and it’s a real shame that a GM in the making like myself gets treated like this. I hope one day when Minaya steps down or gets fired, Freddie Coupons will hire me to take this team to the next level. Firing all of the a**holes in the front office and that incompetent fool we call a manager.

[http://www.metsblog.com/2008/02/24/burkhardt-el-duque-not-throwing-hard/#comments]

Comment by mets484 2008-02-24 11:57:25 when i was at spring training on wednesday i noticed that el duque wasn’t throwing the ball at all during fielding drills, while all of the other pitchers were

Log in to Reply

Comment by jimmy 2008-02-24 12:02:31 Better to see if Pelfry is good enough now than to have El Duque in the rotation because if Pelfry doesn’t solidify a spot in the rotation this season, there may be three holes to fill in the rotation next season without any minor leaguers ready to fill those roles. The payroll is going to skyrocket and before you know it we’ve turned in to the yankees.

GO BRAVOS…

By Braveheart

February 24, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

Sound mixing, sound editing. There’s a difference? Who knew? Who cares?

By AdirondackDave

February 24, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

Metroman — Either pay more attention or get lost. Those SI clips have been posted many times. Come to think of it, just get lost.

By wiki

February 24, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

metman

The SI article is old news. Its been discussed thoroughly in prior blogs. Go back to your nonsensical belly comparisons….you know, the brainless shtick that you’re defined by.

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 24, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this

DOB — good call on “best actress.” I thought Julie Christie was the popular choice, though I also was hoping that Ellen Page would’ve won.

I’m hoping for Daniel Day-Lewis also to win Best Actor, and No Country For Old Men is my vote for Best Movie. I’d love it if “Juno” won, but no way it would — it’s in the role of the indie flick whose honor is just being nominated.

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

JB Braves, I was merely answering your question: “DOB, is it just me or is everyone else about 90% sure that Tyler Yates is gonna get traded before the season starts.”

Would you be happier if I lied and told you I thought he was going to get traded? OK, I think you’re right — I’m 90 percent sure he’s gonna be traded.

But seriously, I’m not saying he won’t, I’m just saying I haven’t heard one thing that would lead me to believe that’s happening or being considered.

By AdirondackDave

February 24, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

Metroman — Up here, as you can imagine, I’m surrounded by Met and Yankee fans. I think I can say, without fear of contradiction, you are the most clueless of the lot… It’s getting embarrassing, man.

By N8

February 24, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

Metro-Man

That story has been on si’s site for about a week (if not longer), so you’re NOT bringing anything new to the table.

In fact, DOB wrote about the Braves’ reactions to it in an article about Escobar the other day. In which the first paragraph reads as follows:

“The heartiest laughter in the early part of Braves camp came when some Braves players and team officials saw a Web site scouting report that characterized Yunel Escobar as a glorified utility infielder who “peaked” as a major-leaguer in 2007.”

Then entire article (posted yesterday), can be read here:

Escobar Story

By Greg in TN

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

Evening gang…

That’s what I love about John Smoltz folks. He wants the ball when the game is on the line. Champions want the ball, or the puck, or what have you when it’s time to put up or shut up.

Gretzky, Jordan, Bird, Montana, Elway, Brady, Favre. All of those guys relish the spotlight, relish the moment to step in and make a play with the clock ticking down. All of the cameras in the park are on the guy as the clock winds down, and it’s these guys often pumping their fist in triumph when all is said and done.

John Smoltz is cut from that same cloth. 2007 saw the Brave’s HOF pitcher will himself and his team through victories and through pain. Perhaps the most impressive thing when reflecting back on John Smoltz’s career is that he is always eager to reinvent himself. He’s always looking to throw a wrinkle to the National League, literally. It’s almost like the Road Runner taunting Wile E Coyote. “Okay fellas, let’s see what you can do with this…” It’s telling that essentially, this spring training we are going to save John from himself, from getting into the game and letting that killer instinct he’s honed over nineteen seasons take over. That competitive fire can never be fully extinguished in a guy like Smoltz.

I can understand Chuck James’ anxiety. It’s kind of like watching the class out on the playground through the window while you’re sitting at your desk. Had to do that a time or two, but not too often because I always enjoyed gym class and recess. Hopefully Chuck’s rotator cuff will respond.

Charlie Morton’s resume is expanding and the hard throwing hurler draws the Bulldogs with the exhibition assignment. Morton’s star is rising and I think as long as he’s able to continue to work on control and location, we may see Morton and Jurrjens anchoring the next generation of Braves’ hurlers.

mets fans in the house bloggin’ like it’s 1999. Too funny.

By N8

February 24, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

Niels Boor

You typed:

“(And people keep saying that Glavine was and will be a mentor, based apparently on nothing but their own wishful thinking.)”

One doesn’t have to be a mentor to have a lasting impression on a young man. I find there to be NO coincidence that Andruw’s season with the most “growth” was the first season Galarraga was in a Braves unfiorm. The after being a teammate of Sheffield’s for two seasons, he EXPLODES.

Same goes for Damion Moss having his best year, while merely hanging around and watching Glavine.

Hell, I’ve said before, that I’d be willing to bet that Oliver Perez (if asked) would say just talking with Glavine and watching him, helped him in some manner.

You would have to be some kind of moron, to have a future HOF’r in the same pitching staff as you, that throws with the same arm as you, that DAMN NEAR uses the same style of pitching as you (Both Chuck and Jo-Jo), and NOT pay attention.

Even if Glavine NEVER takes either of them under his wing, so to say, if I were them, I’d watch every move he makes, in preparation. Having said that, it isn’t gonna hurt either of them having Hampton around either, as long as he’s not lost for the year again.

I’m not looking for Glavine to invite Chuck to live with him, and be his “roomy” on the road.

What I’m asking is that Chuck (if he wants to have a career that lasts HALF as long as Glavine’s has - with even HALF the success), he merely needs to watch, and talk to the guy.

It ain’t gonna hurt.

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 24, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

Also, I wrote an article for athomeplate.com about the NL East. Here’s the link if anyone is interested.

By Metropolitan Man

February 24, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

Man, DOB, you sure did tear me a new one didnt you??? Whats the matter, you didnt win an Oscar for “best blog” in a non sports town??? Anyway when you get busy with work, its hard to keep up with ALL the baseball news. Its like trying to post on 1 blog and then “BOOM” another blog is up!!! What was the big problem. Was it that fact that it was a negatvie article on the golden child Escobar, or is it because you NEED him to succeed to make the Renteria trade look good??? You do great work DOB and I read your stuff because you get people blogging, but dont get it twisted either. You are a blogger who writes about the braves….do you really expect 100% positive feedback that is current??? Old news is posted here all the time and then some “teachers pet” wants to yell out, We studied that already. Then the smart kid says lets re-evaluate it because you obviously didnt learn much form the article except Escobar will probably suck in year 2. So with that said keep it coming and please find a new team to write about. Writing about the braves either depresses you or obviously drives you to drink. Dam let me hurry up and post this, a new blog might be up!!!!

By chucktown

February 24, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

Say DOB, kind of a random question here…. When the Braves and Bulldogs play will the Bulldogs be using wooden or aluminum bats?

By adam

February 24, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

Metrosexual Man….do you not find it the least bit fruitless to post fanboy mets opinions on a BRAVES blog, where obviously even if your arguments might have a shread of truth (which they don’t because you have yet to formulate an argument, which requires a sound basis of fact and an assertion or hypothesis btw, none of which you offer) that not only is no one here going to agree but even less going to care, and FYI the BRAVES are owned by Liberty Media, not Time Warner anymore. And looking at things realistically the mets and the BRAVES are pretty evenly matched, both better then the Phillies who are already falling apart (3-6 weeks and surgery for Brad Lidge). If you do not agree that the teams are evenly matched out the gate then you are ignorant to anything related to baseball. I honestly think whichever team wins the first series here in Atlanta is going to be able to probably hold that lead from momentum into late September where there is an NL East free-for-all thanks to the awesome schedule. Every NL East fan should thank the people responsible for the schedul because we all get October baseball in September and I can’t wait. As far as facts to back up my opinions I admit to being to lazy to type it all out, but I base my argument on this. Looking at every position and pitcher to pitcher from number 1 starter to closer it is dead even. The mets have it in some positions and the BRAVES have it in others and a fair assessment of them all together pretty much shows a push, so this will be settled on the field. So I will welcom you to respond and continue throwing your brain against a brick wall with no results what so ever. We are BRAVES fans here and regardless of how rediculous your posts it won’t change anything. Why dont you take the time you spend posting here and either contribute something factual and reliable that isnt biased to favor the mets knowing it is skewed or go read a book. I recommend “Socrates’ Apology” from The Great Dialogues of Plato. It will help you learn how to formulate an argument that might garner some good discussion and perhaps make your entries to this blog valid.

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, sound mixing and editing two different things. Like you, I — voice of Johnny Carson here — did not know that.

But Bourne Ultimatum was cool, so good for those boys who mixed and edited that sound. Now let’s get on to the big stuff.

That, or keep showing Diane Lane. That’ll work, too.

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 24, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

Trading Yates would be a very stupid move by the Braves.

By adam

February 24, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

Metrosexual Man, while we are lobbing insults about player conduct of former players which have played for our respected teams…you can say camp, but is it even neccesary to remind you fo the complete debacles of both Daryl Strawberry and Dwight Gooden….so I guess the Braves got a few extra calls around the plate from our pitchers, but your guys got added running speed and pitching speed from cocaine. Alls fair in love and war. I mean heck Its hard to tell whehter Daryl was in the batter’s box half the time, cause he had probably snorted half of it up between his first and second at bat.

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

Dawgs will use wooden bats….

Brian, I saw all the best-picture nominees. Personaly thought No Country and There Will Be Blood were about equally great, so either would please me. Also liked all three other nominees. Great fields of nominees in all the majors categories this year….

OK, I can’t type for a few moments. Penelope Cruz does that….

By wiki

February 24, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

Was it that fact that it was a negatvie article on the golden child Escobar, or is it because you NEED him to succeed to make the Renteria trade look good???

I’m sure he wakes up in a cold sweat every night worried about it…..funny stuff.

By Metropolitan Man

February 24, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

adam: When I see some intelligence here I will follow suit. You guys post some seious BS here and whine if its another fan “GRACING” this blog. No beat repoter beleives the braves will compete with the METS and philthies in 08…not 1 except of course the AJC. Its your jobs as fans to beleive and root the braves as I do for the METS. Its your duty to bash the opposing teams which I have done well for as long as I can remember. If you want some substnace tonight i’m sorry, I’m not watching the Oscars but I see the blog is. So keep your assessment because like you said it will be settled on the field. I’m just so giddy with this METS squad and then look at the braves squad and just laugh. You guys dont have a chance. So get off the high horses, get some wit when the news is slow ans please, please…stop whining and crying. The blog is getting wet!!!

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this

Miike S, agreed on Daniel Day-Lewis getting robbed when he didn’t win for playing the Butcher in Gangs of New York. This would be an even greater injustice if he didn’t win this year. So he will win. They can’t do it to him twice. He will win. Count on it.

Hoping the song from Once wins. Soulful tune, that. Good stuff.

I’ll bet Coen Bros. win for best director, regardless of which movie wins best picture.

By Double Deuce

February 24, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this

JB Brave Tyler Yates was hardly taking up space in the bullpen. 75 appearances, 44 before the break, 13 appearances in 19 games including 7 straight games just before the break when Bobby was trying to keep the Braves in the race and we couldn’t get more than four innings out of the back end. His numbers went in the tank after that, but Bobby still asked him to take the ball and he did when other guys in the pen said no(and they aren’t in the pen anymore). Put that on top of 56 games in four months in ‘06(didn’t come up until the end of May), that puts him in about 45% of the games since he’s been with the Braves. I hardly see that as taking up space.

By StingerSplash

February 24, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

OK, I’ll step in the minefield. I’m no Jordan fan. And I started hating UNC well after he graduated (God, what a whiny bunch they are). Jordan ruined basketball. How? Because with him, the NBA started pushing individual players and the game and the league went right in the latrine. I haven’t watched an NBA game from start to finish, or for more than 5 minutes, since 2001. Let’s not forget Detroit’s “Jordan rules” which essentially were copied and mugged by others, notably Pat Riley (how’s that 2007-08 season working out for you, Mr. “Winner Within”?) Talk about dragging the game down. Jordan could have been dominant in era. He was good. But during his prime, what other superstars were there to contest him? Bird was done. Magic was fading. Dr. J. was long gone. Drexler and Hakeem? Hmm. Not really. Besides, Wilt was the greatest scoring machine of all time. He was unstoppable on the basketball court, too.

By Metropolitan Man

February 24, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

Darryl and Doc, and i’m accused of going back 1 week. Give me a blog break please!!!!!

By Braveheart

February 24, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this

The nominees are: Anders, Metrosexual Man, Drool, Robert, Metspussycat

And the Douchebag goes to:

Metroman

By adam

February 24, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

Metrosexual Man, I hope you have to stones to show back up on this blog to take your lashings when the BRAVES prove you wrong at the end of the season. Or perhaps you would be kind enough to give a url to the mets blogs you post on so that we as BRAVES fans care show up and cause chaos there when it happens? that would be the noble way to proceed.

By Jerry

February 24, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

DOB, I was just wondering if you liked Toto? Man, I love that Africa song. I like a lot of the music that you recommend, I am just curious.

By TrboDawg

February 24, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this

So Happy to see “Falling Slowly” win. Just watched it last night. Really good date movie :)

By adam

February 24, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this

Metrosexual you are in the wrong place to expect breaks….I never accused you of going back any, you are the one who brought up Maddux and Glavine, so you went that far back first. You know its hard to argue with an idiot who doesnt even recall what there own arguments stated. Go snort some crack and relive that ole time mets fervor. We as BRAVES fans will continue to win by doing it the right way and continue laughing at you for being a complete and utter failure at any sort of sports realted competence what so ever. But please, feel free to keep proving your reign as the king of idocy by responding with absolutely no relevance at all, I implore you. You really do make it too easy.

By chucktown

February 24, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, do you think Lew will paint a “Douchebag” award for Metro Man?

By LM

February 24, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this

MetroMan, maybe we will get off our “high horses” when/if you decide to ever get off yours. Just a thought.

DOB, I love reading your updates about Spring Training. I read everyday to see what’s new with our boys. Thanks for doing such a good job at keeping us informed.

By adam

February 24, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, can you give any insight into this new Dugout club that is rumored to now exist at the Ted. What exactly is it, how swank, what do you ahve to do or be to get in, etc? I heard they put it in under the field down front behind homeplate, or something to that effect?

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

Jerry, personally I liked “Rosanna” a lot more than “Africa.” Incredibly cheesy band, Toto. But those songs are burned into my brain, I admit.

And thanks for bringing up that song, which will now be stuck in my brain as I drift off to sleep…. Thanks, Jerry. Thanks a lot.

“It’s gonna take a lot to drag me away from you

“There’s nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do…”

Aaaaaaghh!!!

By MetsPussyCat

February 24, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

Braveheart Wow…..dont even blog regularly and I get mentioned! Cant keep the METS and METS fans off your mind I see! I love it! Even when its in a ridiculous 12 year old post such as yours! I think you were trying to be witty but you are in no way ready……Stick to baseball loser!

LETS GO METS!!!

By BayAreaSteve

February 24, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

I don’t know, PussyCat. I thought it was the best “ridiculous 12 year old” post I’ve ever seen.

And the douche bag painting is an excellent idea. Douchitzer? Lew, get to work.

By N8

February 24, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

DOB

Speaking of Toto. No seriously. Just today, I had a buddy email me a link on you-tube, to this guy Andy McKee that is a KILLER guitarist, doing a version of Africa. Watched it like three times, and I don’t even like the song.

Pretty amazing, even for a cheesy song, indeed. But how can you rag on a band that managed to fit the lyric “Sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti” into a song, and MAKE IT WORK? Yikes.

Anyhow, check it out.

Andy McKee

By MetsPussyCat

February 24, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this

BayAreaSteve You must be 12…..

LETS GO METS!

By Daniel Day-Lewis

February 24, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this

I DRINK YOUR MILKSHAKE! I DRINK IT UP!!

By Metropolitan Man

February 24, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this

I sure do luv that Let’s Get Physical song by the Olivia Newton girl. I really hope you love it too DOB. I do my aerobics to it every night in the back bedroom. Mets rock!

By chucktown

February 24, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this

BAS And the douche bag painting is an excellent idea. Douchitzer? Lew, get to work.

You ready for that drink yet?

By MegsyLovesJulio

February 24, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB,

What is the word on The Ageless Wonder? I’ve not heard a peep since post-season speculation about him joining the coaching staff. Any news?

By David O'Brien

February 24, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

Can’t recall a recent group of best-actor nominees as strong overall as those five. Yet Day-Lewis was still the obvious, must-win choice. That’s just how remarkable his performance was.

Should be a three-time winner now. I’m sure he’ll get one or two more before he’s done….

By Operator

February 24, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

Excuse me, I have an emergency person-to-muts call for Metroman and Pussycat from a Mr. Pot. He’s actually asking for Mr. and Mrs. Kettle and you’re the only ones here that apply. He also would like to know if either of you would like a little cheese with your whine tonight and wants to remind you to review this before the beginning of the season.

By Metropolitan Man

February 24, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

Ok adam ill keep it recent. 2 third place finishes from 1 team, 1 title and 1 game out of 1st for the other team. Upgrades have been made and you the braves are still picked 3rd and may finish further down that that. All of this is as recent as now. So my original argument on this blog is: LETS GO METS, AND THE braves SUCK. Thats been the argument since someone left the gate open in the NL west and the braves entered the NL east. Deal with it braves fans without…hmmm cryung maybe!!!

By jdfromsc

February 24, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this

Metspussy- you should do standup…at an elementary school.

HOW ABOUT NOT!

By BLUE JAYS FTW

February 24, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this

I’ll keep it stupid. Two 3rd place finishes and One title and 1 game out of first place finishes in the last 2 seasons. But you better watch out because the BLUE JAYS have been making some major upgrades. My original argument on this blog is: LETS GOT BLUE JAYS, AND THE nl east SUCK! hmmmm cryung maybe!!!!!!!

By midtownBrave

February 24, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this

I really doubt that Smoltz will be very effective after this season (just a gut feeling). Glavine will be just OK this year considering how well we hit him last year (expect the phillies and mets to do the same). So i am really counting on Hundson to continue to do what he did last year and hoping that Hampton can step up and have a great year. But the future and this season looks good for the braves though. We have depth and the depth comes from solid pitchers (maybe not james, but JJ and jojo are both great talents). Plus the line-up is as good as it gets (tigers have a line-up out of this world though). Tim Hudson, Jair Jurrjens, Cole Rohrbough, Jeff Locke and Charlie Morton will make a good rotation for the future when smoltz steps down.

By BayAreaSteve

February 24, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

Hey Chuck…is someone buying me a drink? I occasionally imbibe. Rarely. Once in a very long while.

And that was an excellent idea. Wurlitzer worthy, even.

By chucktown

February 25, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this

BAS, sure I’ll buy you one. I’m more of a bourbon guy than a canadian whiskey guy though.

Glad you liked my idea but it’s not Wurlitzer worthy though.

By David O'Brien

February 25, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

MetroIntellectual, that’s not at all surprising that you would work out to Let’s Get Physical. Nor that you wouldn’t have the common sense to keep such info to yourself. But hey, good for you for not being afraid to admit it. So, you wear leggings when you’re going at it, aerobicise boy?

By StingerSplash

February 25, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this

DOB, How bout a little “99” or “Hold the Line” from Toto. yes, I enjoy being evil, very much so. Daniel Day Lewis was outstanding in “In the Name of the Father” too.

By MetsPussyCat

February 25, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this

Operator and jdfromsc….Very cute boys, I see you two have been reading my book on **blog witt”! Well done…..you’re learning! As for the whine, we METS fans only come here to make you whine…and we successfully do it!

LETS GO METS!!! LETS GO METS!!

By BayAreaSteve

February 25, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

Probably not…but Lew’s been giving ‘em out like candy. It was worth a shot.

By BLUE JAYS FTW

February 25, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this

Very cute mets fan boys, i see you two have been reading my novella on *idiocy! Well done…you’re learning. As for whine, we BLUE JAYS fans only come here to make you nl east fans whine…and we sucessfully do it!

LETS GO BLUE JAYS!!! LETS GO BLUE JAYS!! WERE A BUNCH OF BOTARDS!!!!!

By MetsPussyCat

February 25, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this

Ok DOBBLOGINATOR, If you believe that post was from me…..well anyway it was from one of your blind faithful trying to make wit. The post was funny after I found out who the chick was and heard the song. (internet is so great)

Now dont try and grab on to someone else deflecting the facts about baseball. Keep up the good work guys especialy DOB. The Baseball season is upon us and i’ll send the “cheese” for your advance whining. Please dont forget…

LETS GO METS

By BLUE JAYS FTW

February 25, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this

LETS EAT CHEESE!

By BayAreaSteve

February 25, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this

So, Metro Man and PussyCat are one in the same. Makes sense. I’ve long suspected all these Mets people are imposters. I mean, seriously, what kind of fan goes to another team’s blog, and posts…CONTINUOUSLY?

By BayAreaSteve

February 25, 2008 12:45 AM | Link to this

I would give 9-1 that Blue Jays is the from the same fool as well.

DOB, is posting under multiple names bannable? It probably shouldn’t be, if you’re not taking someone else’s identity.

But, how about terrible posting under multiple names? Surely that is ban worthy.

By Im

February 25, 2008 12:54 AM | Link to this

there should be an entrance exam to be able to use the internet. this is ridiculous.

By GSU-Lee

February 25, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this

MetsPussyCat, Mets are going to be good this year, but the Braves are deeper on the mound, in the pen and starters. With all due respect, and keep in mind I did say with all due respect, You guys are going to lose again. And The Bravos are back on the throne. Just my humble opinion.

By Metropolitan Man

February 25, 2008 1:08 AM | Link to this

You are an idiot to post as two people…simply sickening. Now to say I dont know METSPUSSYCAT would be a lie. She is her own boss and a METS fan. I know she is tough but dont let the lady get the best of your baseball world!! Did it ever occur to you dolts that we are blogging from the same computer? Follow this…its your 2008 outlook against the METS!!!

LETS GO METS!!

ALL THE WAY!!

By BayAreaSteve

February 25, 2008 1:21 AM | Link to this

I would never assume another’s name. I think it’s the worst thing that happens here, surpassing langauge, sexual Hannah Montana comments, politics, religion, etc.

I feel for N8, who it happened to earlier.

I don’t know if it’s right to ban you, Met Man/PussyCat. I leave that to the powers that be. But, let me say, thank the internet gods for the scroll wheel.

By justdoit

February 25, 2008 1:46 AM | Link to this

metssuck

By Metropolitan Man

February 25, 2008 2:24 AM | Link to this

Bay/AreaSteve, you are so girly, you’re flaming. Don’t tell me; you were bullied around in school. Am I right?

By Moby Grape

February 25, 2008 2:31 AM | Link to this

McFann c’mon now, everybody knows that McFatts is sooo slooow that you gotta hit a triple just to be certain of getting him home from second. no wonder Diaz ain’t got no RBI

By BayAreaSteve

February 25, 2008 2:33 AM | Link to this

Metro/PussyCat/BlueJays,

Spot on.

By fastasballs

February 25, 2008 5:05 AM | Link to this

LOL, A Muts fan bragging about being ONLY 1 game out of first last season. OMG I’m going to bust something vital to living if I keep laughing any harder.

You clowns root for a team who had one of the biggest, if not the biggest, collapse in the history of baseball & you’re bragging about it.

Take a look at your roster Muts fans. Old & lacking depth is the first words that come to mind when I look over it. Great addition(gift) in Santana or you would be fighting with the Nats & Fish for 4th place. You have more questions than answers from that roster so good luck in repeating last year’s finish. Well, actually I would pay to see you guys duplicate it, providing we were the team that edged you out.

The Braves have overall much better depth than the Muts or Phillies. Yes we have questions, but for once the pitching staff doesn’t rely on Hampton this season. If he performs it’s nothing but a positive & will make us even deeper. If he doesn’t, oh well.

I hope your pen is DEEPPPPPP with the likes of Pedro & El DL List heading the staff. Can they make it into the 6th inning these days? The rest of that staff had better take the load off of Santana or the pen is going to wear out by Aug.

By Niels Boor

February 25, 2008 5:35 AM | Link to this

That’s the spirit, N8 — keep on wishin’ on!

‘Specially if you got no evidence.

And we both know that “I find there to be NO coincidence that” and “I’d be willing to bet that” ain’t evidence.

Whereas the rest of your post (“You would have to be some kind of moron” on), ain’t nothin’ BUT wishful thinking.

By Niels Boor

February 25, 2008 5:54 AM | Link to this

BayAreaSteve (and many of the rest of you on this blog)—

The expression is “one and the same”, not “one in the same”.

What in the world could you think the latter would even mean?

Think about it:

“X & Y are one”. “X & Y are the same”. “X & Y are one and the same”.

But “X & Y are one in the same”? In the same what?

By We're All Bozos on This Bus

February 25, 2008 6:08 AM | Link to this

Gabba gabba hey.

Gabba gabba hey.

LETS GO METS!!! LETS GO METS!!

By David O'Brien

February 25, 2008 7:04 AM | Link to this

Niels Boor, that pales next to the number of times I hear this on an almost daily basis, often from very bright people: “I could care less.”

It’s “I COUDN’T care less.” Not “I COULD care less.”

Think about it. To say the latter would be exactly opposite of the actual intent of the statement.

By David O'Brien

February 25, 2008 7:07 AM | Link to this

Not much sleep we’re working on, so don’t expect much until we get caffeinated.

By nOLIE

February 25, 2008 7:31 AM | Link to this

everybody knows that McFatts is sooo slooow that you gotta hit a triple just to be certain of getting him home from second. no wonder Diaz ain’t got no RBIMoby

yeah you got that right. It’s not known by many, but Brian was one of three contestants in that race between the tortoise and the hare. Unfortunately they had to give him such a huge headstart that none of the spectators saw him begin, and he finished sooo far behind the other two that everybody had left before he finally reached the finish line. If it hadn’t been for a few extremely diligent scholars who heard some rumors and spent their careers tracking it down, nobody would even know about it now. True story!

By sean

February 25, 2008 7:56 AM | Link to this

Hi David,Hudson earlier said that it didn’t matter to him if he started #1-3. It seemed he was thinking that there would be a split with the r/l/r.Do you think that might happen with hudson,glavine,smoltez,hampton,jair jurr?

By ncgary

February 25, 2008 8:07 AM | Link to this

anyone interested in a 6 spd 2000 corvette with low mileage? financial problems here , could be a good deal for one of you

By David O'Brien

February 25, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this

OK, I’ve had a travel mug of Seattle’s Finest, a half a Romeo Y Juliet stogie, and some Lupe Fiasco on my drive in (too foggy for biking in). I’m ready to roll now.

NCgary, how much? Personally, I dig the vintage GTO convertible I saw this girl driving here yesterday. Incredible car.

By Jeff R

February 25, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this

Let’s go way back in Braves history to a pitcher John Smoltz reminds me of in terms of savvy: Warren Spahn, arguably the greatest lefty of all time. Having read about Spahn, I learned that as he got older and lost his fastball, he began to develop other pitches. It kept him winning big into his 40s. So it’s a tribute to Smoltz that he’s adapting to changes. Hope he enjoys the same success.

Anyone not familiar with Spahn should check out his career. But for World War II, which took Spahn out of the game for a few years, he may have won 400 games (as it was, he won 363).

By BamaBrave

February 25, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this

Thank you, DOB…thank you. The “could/couldn’t care” thing drives me insane. “Revert back” is another that drives me up the #%&#@ wall…

Good Oscar show. No frills, and that’s OK. I only recently learned that Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead did the music for “There Will Be Blood”… Another reason why I need to make the time to see it…

The insight on Smoltz is a great read… But I’m not sure I’d announce what my ‘08 strategies are going to be… Then again…maybe that’s just what he WANTS us to think…

By David O'Brien

February 25, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this

Sean, it certainly could go down that way, but I just don’t know. Bobby’s given no indication how he plans to do the rotation, but we should have a better idea today if he gives us the spring rotation for first week.

By richbrave

February 25, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

Geeze. The Mets idiots are back with more innane delirium. Take a hike time-wasters.

By Jonathon

February 25, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I recently saw a pic of Smoltz and Glav wearing retro unis. Looks like it was taken this Spring. Are the Braves planning to wear some throwbacks this season? Glavine had the royal blue road jersey from the 70s with the lower-case “a” hat. Smoltz was rocking a way-back Boston Braves uniform.

By AdirondackDave

February 25, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this

Jeff R —- You bet, Warren Spahn was the the best. He and Williams both were effective way into their 40s and, when when you figure down time for the service, their numbers were just out of this world. I never saw Spahn pitch but I did see Williams and the guy hit rockets, time after time, through a shift. Just amazing.

By Jeffery

February 25, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

Look at the numbers Santana had against his rivals last year, plust 4.0, and higher with the Indians. He pitched more innings against them than any other team, and got hit around 1 win and 8 losses. Ridiculous logic! It will be sad if you resort to using Sosa as a starter if one of your sophmores dont make it. The fact is that Hudson and smoltz had better years last year than santana, and did not have to adjust to a new league! Tom Glavine was in the top five in quality starts and (WILL) have a better year playing for his passion and his franchise. Mets will still have to catch up to the Braves and Phillies this year. Baring injury the Braves have 4 proven 20 game winners in the past, and 5 others battling for the other 1 spot. Chuck james will be a 5th starter with a 4.0 - 4.5 ERA and good for at least 12 wins. To think that the braves are done or that the Phillies are just going to strike out with their offense is ludicrous! When it comes down to it, a 3 way race down the last 10 games will decide who comes out on top, my guess who ever is the most healthy will prevail. Eat it mets fans!

By McFann

February 25, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

Hey, everybody, I know McCann is slow, and I take no offense at somebody pointing that out, but would you quit calling him “McFatt” already?!!

And that Tortoise and the Hare thing? SHEESH!!

By JEB

February 25, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

Based on the time table BC has set for Chuck James (original Mar. 20th) and then just moving it up a week (Mar. 13th) I think it is pretty obvious that they plan on Chuck being on DL to start and let him rehab awhile. So, that takes him out of the mix (and also out of any trade plans). Chuck is a guy of the future, so is Jo-Jo (and mid-season call ups if injuries occur)I would throw Morton into this catagory also. So that really narrows down the numbers for the 5th spot. My money is on Jair Jurjens (if Hampton is healthy). Bennett is long & spot reliever. That pretty well rounds out the starting pitching (BARRING any huge surprises - and they CAN happen!)

By Mad Mike

February 25, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this

Godot, Robert (Chipper is The Best): Sorry for not replying sooner. Godot: I don’t think anybody’s necessarily “aiming low” when they ground out to the right side of the infield with a runner on second. I would think they were trying to go the opposite way in order to get a hit and move the runner over. It just so happens that sometimes those balls get fielded. But if they ground out to the right side of 2nd, then they might advance the runner from 2nd to third. This is as opposed to freezing the runner at second with a ground ball to the left side. But I definitely get what you’re saying…I think you make both of our points in the old blog when you say those high fives in the dugout come from somebody having made a productive out.

Robert: I think ESPN sucks because of the way they cover the Red Sox, the Yankees, and the Mets…with at least twice the coverage everybody else gets. (I hate ESPN’s coverage of college football too, but that’s a different story.) I hate the coverage, but I don’t think ESPN sucks because of the production quality. I mean they (ESPN) always have a very good production…well except for Joe Morgan. I hate listening to him call a game. Now I don’t know the guy, so he could be one of the coolest people I could ever hope to be around. But even if I knew him, I would still hate to listen to him call a game. All in all, my disdain (yes, disdain) for ESPN is mainly because I want better Braves coverage, and my only option is basically cheesy FOX productions.

By kdbanks

February 25, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

Great Oscars last night, thrilled for Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova winning best song. Great movie, great song, well-deserving people.

DOB, didn’t you see them this past fall at Variety? How was the show? They are playing the new Cobb Energy place in a couple weeks and I’m thinking of going.

By LM

February 25, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

McFann, I agree.

McCann may be slow, but he still gets on base a lot because he can hit. (How many doubles did he have last year, people?) Can we find someone else to make of now? Frenchy and Teixeira both run on the slow side as well, but we don’t see people making fun of them. I know McCann is not the only bigger-built baseball player out there. Just because he is built bigger than most players, doesn’t make him any less of a great player.

By josh H

February 25, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

LM:

Francouer isn’t exactly slow. A notch behind Kelly perhaps, but not very far. And Texeira is pretty fast for a first baseman.

Yeah, McCann is slow, but who cares? He’s a catcher, and its almost more rare to find one who can actually run as it is to find a hitting catcher.

By David-ATL14

February 25, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

Not to belabor a small point but it was I not the esteemed DOB whom referred to Hansboro as overrated.

I did so in context of him being absurdly claimed as the Best player in the history of the ACC.

He’s not even close. There have been quite a few more accomplished players from the ACC than young Tyler. Many from the Carolina Blue themselves.

Brad Daugherty was a far superior player to Tyler. Not even remotely close.

That’s where you have to look at systems and not just numbers and compilers of numbers.

Had TH been around during the heyday of the Dean Smith Era, he would have found himself coming off the bench as the #7-8 man on many of Dean’s teams.

Sorry for interruption of a very fine baseball blog for basketball talk.

DOB, when do you expect BC to confirm his plans for the rotation?

Thanks for all the effort from DarkStar.

By Ramblin Wrecker

February 25, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

LM & McFann,

You could put McCann in a race next to Michael Johnson and McCann would end up looking foolish. But put a bat in their hands and it would be Johnson who looks foolish. My point is, speed only helps after you’ve hit the ball. That old axiom that you can’t steal first base is truer today than it ever was. Sure speed might help you beat out a slow roller to short, but if you’re having to count on slow rollers to get on base, you aren’t much of a hitter. McCann gets on base because of his keen eye and the line drives he hits more often than not. (He had 38 doubles last year and 34 the year before that.) He’s the third best hitter on this team, behind Chipper and Tex. He can be slow if he wants to.

By SeattleBravesFan

February 25, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Thank you DOB, finally someone points out the “COULD CARE LESS” issue. I can’t tell you how many times I hear that phrase uttered wrong and I am there saying to myself “Couldn’t care less”, “Couldn’t careless!”…I almost started doubting myself since I hear it in so many different walks of life and from so many people.

By LM

February 25, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Josh H, I didn’t mean they were as slow as McCann, I’m just saying that they’re no speed demons on the bases. They are average runners.

That’s what I’m saying. Most catchers are gonna be slow because of the wear and tear they endure everyday of the season.

By N8

February 25, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

“Brad Daugherty was a far superior player to Tyler.”

How superior can you be, if you finished 4th on American Idol?

By ncgary

February 25, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

dob its a silver coupe has less than 29000 miles , its a great car, id take 22000, glass tops, in 6th speed at 70 mph you are only turning around 1300 rpm, it wont let you redline so that motor could probably run forever

By N8

February 25, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

Neils Boor

If somebody were to tell you that if I took a crap on your chest, that you would smell funny the rest of the day.

Would you need me to actually do it (you know…..”evidence”), to conclude that it would be true?

By Josh H

February 25, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

Indeed, LM.

Although, weren’t most people expecting Francouer to be more trouble on the basepaths? The guy is definitely fast enough. And Texeira will definitely beat Adam LaRoche in a foot race.

Besides..McCann will always be faster than Estrada.

By McFann

February 25, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

I appreciate the support out there very much. (I don’t think it’s time to “make fun of someone else” though.) Really, why do people find it necessary to expose the disabilities of someone? So he appears “fat”, what of it? Like you (Josh H., LM, Ramblin Wrecker [go Tech!]) said, he’s still a great player, and he’s not the first “bigger built” baseball player! Look at Big Papi, he’s not small, but he’s a great player. It’s like Patrick Henry Hughes said on Extreme Makeover: the Home Edition last week, “Don’t judge people by their disabilities, but by their abilities.” Being fast isn’t all it takes to be a good ball player; being slim isn’t all it takes to be a good ball player.

It is so sad that people such as Moby Grape have this “need” to make fun of someone because of how they look. And don’t tell me that “McFatt” is a term of endearment. McCann is a great player, and a great guy. So why don’t we move on? This has been going on for a long time now, and frankly, it has gotten extremely old to say the least.

By Steve McP

February 25, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

Agree entirely on the careless use of the care less.

For me I have two that are the equivalent of somebody dragging their nails down a blackboard.

One is “Self-titled” as in “the groups self-titled album”. This means that they have named the album themselves, not named it after themselves. To indicate that an album, or book, or whatever has the same name as the group or author the correct word is eponymous, but nobody uses that word and so we get regular references to groups having self-titled albums or authors having self-titled books, which of course is correct as you would expect performers to name their work themselves, but is meaningless if trying to indicate that the album/book etc is eponymous.

The other word that the media uses that really annoys me is when an anchor says that he/she/the show will be back “momentarily”, which means that they will be back for the briefest time and then they will be gone again (of course on some channels that may be true), but it is awful English usage. Say “we will be back in a moment” but stop using momentarily in this context.

phew I feel much better for that!

By David-ATL14

February 25, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

Good point N8 maybe I need to reevaluate either Hansbrough or Daugherty’s talents especially in light of being a 4th place finisher on that God awful show?

LOL!

By Josh H

February 25, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

McFann, Ramblin Wrecker: I’m a tech alum :)

By N8

February 25, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

DOB

Since were on the subject of mis-used phrases. I’ll add one to the mix.

I love it when people say:

“I’m gonna take some ground beef out of the freezer and unthaw it.”

My wife is good for that one, every now and then. I’m not sure why you would want to freeze something that’s already frozen. :-)

By Braveheart

February 25, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

Holy William Safire. I could care less about this couldn’t care less conversation. :)

By DAP

February 25, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

am i being punished?

By Jeff R

February 25, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

AdirondackDave—I was just a tot when Spahn and Ted Williams were finishing their careers. But I’ve always liked baseball history, and as a Braves fan, learned a lot about Spahn back when the Braves’ pitching was poor. I would wonder if it had always been like that, and learned that the Braves once had the best lefty in the game.

By PEPr

February 25, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for the great blog. I am excited about the Braves team this year (every year, actually).

As for NBAs Greatest; It has to be outside men who could consistently beat the “Big Men” inside. Michael Jordon and Bob Cousy, period.

Fellow Brave bloggers: Debating with the “Metros” is like feeding peanuts to the monkey. The monkey won’t stop dancing until you stop feeding him.

By dgd

February 25, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

Can’t WAIT for opening night at the Nats’ new stadium vs. Braves. We’ll be three rows behind home plate with the family. The Nats are going to hit more than last year, but they are REALLY going to miss Brian Schneider behind the plate. I worry about how much he’s going to help the Mets’ pitching staff. Opening Night—March 30………..

By D'Andre Williams

February 25, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

http://www.blabberinbraves.com/

Smoltz is truly one of the best SP in baseball. He is always trying to figure out a way that he can keep the hitters guessing. He is is a great role model and the face of the Atlanta Braves Organization. I wouldn’t trade Smoltz for anybody in baseball.

http://www.blabberinbraves.com/

By Sheijrzla

March 15, 2008 4:44 AM | Link to this

When the produce of any particular branch of industry exceeds what the to exceed .18,000,000. Since the late recoinage of the gold,

By Sheijrzla

March 15, 2008 4:44 AM | Link to this

When the produce of any particular branch of industry exceeds what the to exceed .18,000,000. Since the late recoinage of the gold,