AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > February > 28 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USBraves’ last visit to “Dodgertown”
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
DODGERTOWN, Fla. _ We’re here in a corner of baseball heaven. And if this is our last trip to Dodgertown, then we’re glad at least that we just walked through the chow line ahead of Tommy Lasorda in his full Dodgers uniform.
I was one of the first into the dining room, since I had to scarf some food and get back over here to write a blog. You’ve gotta get to the mess hall pri-tee early (as Larry David would say) to beat Lasorda.
Anyway, there was an older couple behind me at the salad station, and up walks LaSorda in uniform. They start talking (Tommy knows everyone in the vicinity of Vero Beach, and I mean everyone) and Lasorda tells the guy he just got back from New York.
The man asks why he was in NY, and Lasorda starts telling him, and that’s when I thought of the line from History of the World, Pt. I, when Mel Brooks said, “It’s good to the be the king.”
Not that anyone was baring cleavage to Lasorda or anthing, but just to hear him tell the story of why he was in NY, this 80-year-old dude being summoned by a friend who owns an Italian-restaurant chain, to help his son with something or other, and then while he’s there, his buddy “Mr. Modell” asks Tommy to come speak to his employees (I’m assuming he meant Modell’s Sporting Goods, but since I was eavesdropping I didn’t think it would be tactful to ask for clarification).
OK, so where were we? Oh, yeah, Dodgertown’s Last Stand. If the Orioles don’t move here after the Dodgers leave for Arizona, then the Orioles better have a helluva sweetheart deal from Fort Lauderdale officials.
Because let me tell you, having lived 13 years in Fort Liquordale and spent plenty of time at that dump of a ballpark where the Orioles have spring training, it’s incomprehensible that they wouldn’t pack up the trucks and head a couple hours north to this old-school gem of spring training if they have the chance. I’ll cry if I drive by Dodgertown someday and there are condos where once stood Holman Stadium and all the backfields and dormitories (yes, they still have the low-slung dormitories here, just like in the Jackie Robinson Story.)
OK, I wouldn’t actually cry. Then again, I wouldn’t actually have reason to ever drive anywhere near Vero Beach again if there’s no spring training. But that’s beside the point.
What was the point?
Oh, yeah, Andruw Jones. He’s not skinny. But he looks happy and actually looks kinda good in Dodger blue.
No, that wasn’t the point. It was Dodgertown.
First, the idea of the Orioles moving into Dodgertown. They’d have to swap out all these blue and red seats at Holman Stadium, to begin with. Then there are the street signs and such. Oh, what a mess.
(Oh, just got to throw this in here: They’re making Juan Pierre do something to earn his eight-figure salary — he’s out at home plate right now, catching the ceremonial first pitch from Maury Wills…. Oh, that was a cheap shot. Sorry.)
(Speaking of Wills, do you realize he once stole 104 bases in 117 attempts? That’s only slightly better than Willie Harris last season… oh, wow, I’m really not being nice today.)
Anyway, how ‘bout the Orioles at Dodgertown? Would it be O-Town? Birdland? (A not to Charlie “Yardbird” Parker, who has absolutely nothing to do with the Orioles, but so what.) No, I’ve got it: Cal-town.
OK, we’ll stop.
“I just can’t imagine another team coming in here,” Braves broadcaster Pete Van Wieren told me while ago at the batting cage. “What do they do, change Don Sutton Street to Jim Palmer Street? It just wouldn’t’ be the same.”
Especially not without Tommy Lasorda going through the food line every day at noon, in full uniform, and eating at his reserved table in the corner, the one with “Reserved for Tommy Lasorda” card a little sign in the middle of it.
Remind me to tell you sometime about how Bowman and me got to the dining room early one time, and a new waitress seated us at LaSorda’s table (the little sign wasn’t out yet), and before an older waitress could come over and kindly ask us to move our butts to a different table, I spilled some pasta sauce on the white tablecloth. I’m not making this up, I swear. You should have seen them scrambling to get a new tablecloth down in about 2 minutes, before The Man walked in….
OK, gotta watch this game. Tim Hudson’s pitching today. We’re getting underway. Braves only brought McCann, Francoeur and Diaz among lineup regulars. Diaz is leading off, Jordan Schafer in center and batting second (and Schafer just singled in his first at-bat).
Full lineup: 1. Diaz, LF; 2. J. Schaefer, CF; 3. Francoeur, RF; 4. McCann, C; 5. Scott Thorman, 1B; 6. Martin Prado, 3B; 7. Brent Lillibridge, SS; 8. Diory Hernandez, SS; 9. Hudson.
”WITH THESE HANDS” by Alejandro Escovedo
Feel the fire burning from the other side
Flames scream hear the children cry
You see the wicked prowl across the border
They say death’s the only peace the poor understand
Run for cover, run for cover the storm is breaking
Father, son, Mother, daughter
Their earth is shaking
Run to the river, The water is cool
Run to the river the water will heal your wounds
Say what you will
With these hands
Say what you will
I’ll say it with these hands
There’s danger on the highway, It’s in the shadows
Darker, Darker, Darker, I see the light
It’s moving faster, howling like the wind blows
Time comes when you longer fear the night
.JPG)
-1.JPG)
Services »
Comments
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this
Furcal tripled with one out in first inning, but Huddy got out of it unscathed.
ANDRUW will be leading off second, batting fifth in the Dodger order.
By Steve McP
February 28, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this
Anyone else having a problem logging onto gameday audio on mlb.com?
By ssiscribe
February 28, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
MLB.com picked a helluva time to do “maintenance operations” on the Gameday Audio stuff … right freaking now, as the game is on! Fantastic business decision, folks.
Sigh … update us when you can, DOB. Thanks as always.
The (somewhat @#$%ed-off) Scribe abides.
—30—
By FJR
February 28, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
First?
If there isn’t a Fantasy baseball league for the blog, I’ll volunteer to sommish one hosted on ESPN.
By bigblackfurrycreaturefrommars
February 28, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
are we gonna see any of GORKY’S Hernandez this spring, Dave?
Second!
By Longwood's Finest
February 28, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
Let’s go Huddy!
By ElbravoX-- EbX
February 28, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this
First in the East!!
By Ryan Langer-fan
February 28, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this
Ha!
By ssiscribe
February 28, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this
Steve McP: Yeah, can’t get in. Tried clicking on the other games just starting and no luck. Why they can’t do this maintenance at another time — like, say, midnight, when there are no games on — is beyond me.
—30—
By i can't take it anymore
February 28, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this
I wonder if hudson will throw low and away to andruw
By DAP
February 28, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this
this is from the last blog…i think it got lost en route to post. not that its that great of a post or anything…but i spent some time on it, and want it posted. so there.
Fan-Couer i dont think homeruns are overrated. they are the best way to score!!!
sniper-69 on your defense comments, i really do think the mets have the worst defense of the big three, past gold gloves or not. ill rank each team by position, what ever they rank is how many points the get, and the one with the fewest points wins!
Catcher…all these cathcers are good, but schneider is definetly better than mccann.
1B…tex is gold glove caliber…extremly good defense at first. howard is ok, and delgado is a DH.
2B…castillo is old with bad knees, but he was still good defensivly last year. KJ will be better, but its not good to assume.
SS…this is a hard one, these guys are all pretty even, and have different strngths. but i gotta rank them.
3B…wright winning the gold glove was a joke. #1 and #2 are close, but this is how ill rank them…
RF…these guys are all pretty close in fielding %, but heres how they rank…
CF… this one is pretty close to, but…
LF….hm….this one isnt to hard
final score:
very un scientific, i know. but for what its worth. there are the mets at the bottom of my scale. i guess i could do pitching and offense to, if youd like, sniper.
By Shaun
February 28, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this
I see George Lombard and Chan Ho Park were invited to Dodger camp, looking at Jayson Stark’s (speaking of Andruw Jones) All-Invited to Spring Team.
1B: Doug Mientkiewicz (Pirates) 2B: Bret Boone (Nationals) SS: Jose Macias (Pirates) 3B: Edgardo Alfonzo (Rangers) LF: George Lombard (Dodgers) CF: Alex Escobar (Nationals) RF: Juan Gonzalez (Cardinals) C: Javy Lopez (Braves) DH: Matt LeCroy (A’s)
Starting rotation: Hideo Nomo (Royals), Chan Ho Park (Dodgers), Shawn Estes (Padres), Glendon Rusch (Padres), Scott Elarton (Indians).
Bullpen: Brian Anderson (Rays), Kent Mercker (Reds), Chad Fox (Cubs), Tanyon Sturtze (Dodgers), Scott Williamson (Giants), Scott Strickland (Yankees), Matt Mantei (Tigers).
Reincarnation taxi squad: Junior Spivey (Red Sox), Chad Hermansen (Angels), Dee Brown (Angels), Bubba Crosby (Mariners), Ben Davis (Orioles), Luis Rivas (Pirates), Damon Hollins (Royals).
By cameron
February 28, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this
yeah its not letting me get on the mlb.com audio.
By Fan Kolb
February 28, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
Yep, i cant get on either…
By bravos11
February 28, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
yea, I can not log onto mlb game day audio as well.
By Rodney Derrick
February 28, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
MLB.com is off to its brilliant technological start. After subscribing to the audio this morning, they have a maintenance project on the site at the same time games begin. Every year it is a fiasco. At least, the TV deal with Time Warner will start in time for the season so that I can watch Braves here in Durham (except for the stupid blackout of games with Washington or Baltimore, a mere five hours away).
Anyway, even Torre does not feel comfortable with AJ’s weight according to the LA Times, but AJ says he feels comfortable and while he expects a slow start this spring, he believes he will hit again. In the LA Times article a week ago, he blamed Boras for telling him to come to camp at a reduced weight, which he said messed him up for the year. Of course, there was also the elbow which he injured on that great catch early in the season. Personally, I remain a big AJ fan. I met Willie Mays in the Polo Grounds in 1955 when I was eight years old, and I still believe, like Bobby Cox, that AJ was the superior outfielder.
By David-ATL14
February 28, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
Yes steve MLB GD Audio not available as I type.
hopefully it will be working soon.
Would hate to miss an appearance from the everyman today.
By bigblackfurrycreaturefrommars
February 28, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
FJR
I’d be down for a fantasy league
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
Furcal just drew a five-pitch walk.
By Fandruw Jones
February 28, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
Looks like we will need DOB for all of our live play-by-play.
No pressure, man.
But… seriously.
By McFann
February 28, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
I don’t really think home runs are overrated.
By Steve McP
February 28, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
Seems to be working now
By Braveheart
February 28, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
Scribe, SteveMcP, MLB is like the road construction folks. They don’t start working on the roads until rush hour traffic.
By Fan-coeur
February 28, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this
GO HUDDY!
BOOS to Furcal, Andruw! BOO…ok, maybe not to Anruw, but..STRIKE HIM OUT, HUDDY!
Love the lineup, (except Thorman, Prado).
By ellaguru
February 28, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this
Hi, Dave: Good song choice. I’d trade places with you any day but while you’re covering spring training I’ll be at Eddie’s next Thursday watching Alejandro himself. I’ll request “With These Hands” and tell him to dedicate it to you. By the way, you may not know Alejandro’s a great lover of baseball and a HUGE San Francisco Giants fan.
By BossLady
February 28, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
The only televised game is Friday, 1:05 and no games Saturday or Sunday. Makes no sense, now, I’ll have to leave office tomorrow if I want to see the game. Who makes these schedules and what sense do they make?
By David-ATL14
February 28, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
Obviously I left out the key word of Crusading in my earlier post.
That was supposed to be Crusading everyman.
I join the P** off scribe in his rant against the powers that be at MLB Gameday Audio.
Uneffing believable.
DOB we need you to provide yeoman duties and give us timely updates.
By Bob Wick-Fan
February 28, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this
I remember the same thing happening last year with their servers. All of the crazed Baseball fans come out of the woodwork at the first scent of spring ball.
By Beantown Sully
February 28, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
Go Nomah!
By ssiscribe
February 28, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this
Would hate to miss an appearance from the everyman today.
Agreed. DOB, no sense going on the Webcast today if none of us can get on to hear it. For that matter, somebody tell Pete he can relax for now. Nobody can hear his broadcast anyway.
Gotta run. IF Gameday Audio comes back up and you guys can get on, somebody please drop a line on here. Thanks much.
—30—
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
With runners at first and second and one out, Kemp just singled to right. Andruw held up rounding third, wouldn’t test Frenchy’s arm.
Bases juiced, one out, PH Sweeney up, with Pierre ondeck.
Sweeney just singled to LF, one run in
By Fan-coeur
February 28, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
Damn you, Furcal!! (Even though I hate Lofton more than I hate you!)
By Steve McP
February 28, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
Seems to be working now, so log on slowly so it doesn’t crash under the weight again
By Brandon13
February 28, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
Gotta love this maintenance crap at MLB.com…
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this
David-ATL14, your Notorioius Crusading Everyman can only do so much. Also got to write a couple stories for the paper, and I think I’m gonna have the honor of doing an inning with the Professor, Van Wieren, on his internet broadcast in a while.
By Beantown Sully
February 28, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
I’m not down with fantasy baseball. I would rather have a daily visit with The Dark Side Of The Poon.
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
Hey, finally getting to see Tanyon Sturtze pitch … for the Dodgers.
Dude spent entire 2007 season rehabbing for Braves. He just pitched a 1-2-3 inning against them.
By kdbanks
February 28, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Any reason the Braves are running two SS’s out today and no 2B (at least according to your lineup? :)
Is that for when Furcal and Andruw try to pull everything?
By Fan-coeur
February 28, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
It isn’t everything, though, McFann. What good is a Mark Texeira home run if we lost the game 8 to 1. But, hey! Chris Berman likes it!
By timthebrave
February 28, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
DOB, Does Jordan Schafer have any chance to be the starter if he lights it up or has Cox already written Kotsay’s name in pen?
By bigblackfurrycreaturefrommars
February 28, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
I know a lot of you subscribed to gameday audio, but what was the feature they had last year that enabled one to “watch” the game “live”? It looked like an atari game when you watched it and it was free. Maybe it was on ESPN. Unless that is what everyone is talking about, can someone shed a lil’ insight? thank yous
By BravesFanInRockies
February 28, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Though we disagree about some college hoops issues, you remain a blogging dynamo. It’s much appreciated.
FJR,
From previous blog. A Sports Illustrated column explaining why Duke fades every year and yes, why their talent may be overrated (quick explanation — are Duke’s recruiting classes highly rated because they get so many McDonalds All-Americans, or are they McDonalds All-Americans because Duke has recruited them?):
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/stewart_mandel/02/21/duke/index.html?eref=T1
By Fan-coeur
February 28, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
Pierre will strike out.
By KC
February 28, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
I’m pi$$ed. I had no idea this game was going to be on ESPN today, and I work an hour from my house… so I’m SOL. Argh!
By Cooper S
February 28, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this
Woah you’re on the radio right now!
Motley?!
By ssiscribe
February 28, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this
OK, I can continue my afternoon … Gameday Audio now is working.
Guess I just had to change my location: Grabbed a cigar, stepped out onto the back patio and now we in biz.
Resop just struck out his first batter. And there’s DOB on the air now. Just called us a motley group and a bunch of good people. Attaboy, O’B!
Time to get some work done. Later, folks.
—30—
By Snockered Rocker
February 28, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this
The Dodgers must have beer goggles. They find the skinny skank Juan Pierre attractive one year and the chubby chick Andruw attractive the next year.
By Fan-coeur
February 28, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
Tanyon Sturtze almost won the LVP last year. I hope the Braves clobber him next inning if he is still pitching.
By TURTSNAP
February 28, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
Gotta love Andruw’s commitment with his new team, shows up in camp overweight. Go figure!!
By DAP
February 28, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this
Fan-Couer What good is a Mark Texeira home run if we lost the game 8 to 1.
ok. instead, tex doubles, and we lose 8-0. youre right, homers are no big deal.
By ippississiM
February 28, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
This was posted in response to Mark Bradley’s column on Tex’s walk year:
By TJ
February 28, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this
Tex isnt going anywhere! I know his in-laws up here in North Georgia and according to them, he is going to do everything he can to remain with the Braves. They are building a new house here in Habersham Co. and look to maybe plant some roots in the area. Anything could happen I suppose, but I look for him to stay here for a long time!
What do you think it means?
By Some Blogs Have Colloquialisms
February 28, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
Coach sez: “The hurrieder I go, the behinder I get!”
DOB sez: “Pulled pork barbecue is the fondest thing I’m of.”
ncscoots sez: “Your and idiot!.”
By McFann
February 28, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
Hey, DAP, care to elaborate on why the Mets and Phillies have a better catcher than the Braves do?
No, Fan-heart, home runs aren’t everything. But hey, what good is a guy scoring from first on a double after if we lose the game 8-1?
By shocker
February 28, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
MLB back up after the unwanted tech difficulties — also your man DOB is on now.
By cameron
February 28, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
my gameday audio still isnt working?
By N8
February 28, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB:
I’m just posting this to remind you to tell us about the time Bowman and you got to the dining room early one time, and a new waitress seated you guys at LaSordas table (the little sign wasnt out yet), and before an older waitress could come over and kindly ask you guys to move your butts to a different table, you spilled some pasta sauce on the white tablecloth. And how we should have seen them scrambling to get a new tablecloth down in about 2 minutes, before The Man walked in .
I can’t wait to hear that story.
Sorry dude, I had to.
By Steve McP
February 28, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
KC it’s on ESPN tomorrow not today, so you can still schedule it.
DOB’s doing the webcast with Pete VanW on MLB.
By FJR
February 28, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
Okay, just created a fantasy baseball league for blog members. To avoid clutter, don’t respond to me here, send me an email to fjrabon@gmail.com saying you want in and then I’ll send you an invite.
If you want to look at the league, it can be viewed here:
http://games.espn.go.com/flb/leagueoffice?leagueId=46104
However, if people want settings changed, I’m open to that. It’s a live draft, but if the time is bad for multiple people I can try to move it to a better time.
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
Andruw flied out shy of the warning track in CF to star the bottom of the fourth. Braves still have only one hit, by the way.
By Goodoleboy58
February 28, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
let’s go Braves… man I’m glad baseball is here wooo
By MacdWolfpack
February 28, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
Dave, How did Resop look to you today?
By Fan-coeur
February 28, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this
not that, you’re missing the point. the point is leadership. Get on base, so that the next man can hit, (unless you are really good at hitting home runs). SHEESH.
By Fan-cisco Cabrera
February 28, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
ippississiM
I personally think it means nothing. I grew up in Habersham County, I also know his in-laws, went to junior high and high school with his wife and her twin brother (she’s a class act, too… BTW). But with the contract that he is going to get in free agency, he could buy a million dollar home in every state of this great country, and still be rich.
By McFann
February 28, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
Dude! I meant to delete the word “after”. That stinks.
By Wayne and Garth
February 28, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
DAVE
WE’RE NOT WORTHY! WE’RE NOT WORTHY! WE’RE NOT WORTHY! WE’RE NOT WORTHY! WE’RE NOT WORTHY! WE’RE NOT WORTHY! WE’RE NOT WORTHY!
(But serioursly great f’n blog today bloke)
By Heap
February 28, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
Yo quiero Taco Bell.
By Fan-coeur (means Fan-heart)
February 28, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
ok, so Pedro Feliz is better than Frenchy if he hits more home runs than him.
By Nick
February 28, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
bigblackfurrycreaturefrommars, I assume they’ll have that up once the regular season gets closer…you can’t even get a live box score yet.
By Baby Huey
February 28, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
Don’t drop the chalupa.
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
timthebrave, if Kotsay stays healthy, he’s the starting CF. Period.
Francoeur just misplayed ball in the sun and wind, they’re calling it a double. Could’ve been an E9.
By The Piece
February 28, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
N8,
That *&it was really funny. Good for you.
-Piece
By Fan-coeur (means Fan-heart)
February 28, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Hurray for Gameday audio!!
haha, Mets already have lost. hahahaha
By McFann
February 28, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this
Dude, Fan-heart! Now you’re stealing my catch phrase? Sheesh!
: J
By mr baseball
February 28, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this
With Hudson going today, leads to the subjects of 1) who is going to start opening night and 2) what is going to be the order of the rotation. Took a look at the April schedule and did some rough calculating and came to the following conclusions:
The Nos. 3 & 4 starters will miss both series against the Mets, barring rainouts. Nos. 1, 2 & 5 will start all 3 games in both series, no matter how Cox sets up his rotation the first week. He can either keep Nos. 1 & 2 on a regular 5-day rotation and start them in the first 2 games the first weekend against the Mets, or give them an extra day of rest the first week, and have No. 5 pitch the Friday game against the Mets.
By doing that, however, No. 5 will be scheduled for starts against the Rockies and Dodgers instead of 2 against the Nationals, which would be split up among Nos. 1 & 2.
If Glavine is slotted at 3, that will keep him from facing the Mets the first 2 series, which might be a good idea. On the unlikely possibility that Hampton is healthy and ready to go for the start of the season, might want to slot him at 5 and have Glavine and (probably) JJ at 3 & 4.
If Hampton can’t go, Cox will need to decide who of the other bottom of the rotation contenders will be the best bet to pitch against the Mets. Maybe Jo Jo, but that’s a question that probably won’t be answered until the end of Spring Training.
As far as Opening Day, doesn’t matter much. Maybe let Hudson start the ESPN game in Washington and let Smoltz go in the home opener, followed by Glavine.
By Fan-coeur (means Fan-heart)
February 28, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
mets trail 0-3 already, hahaha.
Phillies won a game though…they trail pitts 0-1.
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Macd, Resop looked very good. He’s impressed so far in camp, don’t count him out…
Ellaguru (Don), what’s up? Enjoy the Escovedo show. I think you should offer the 20-percent blog-special discount on all your used CDs again, at least for a few days. What do you think, Atlanta-area music buyers?
By the way, I’m coming home for the weekend, my only time off this spring. So I’ll come by the store.
By Ron FANt
February 28, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Can I join the FAN club?
By TennesseePaul
February 28, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
Pierre isn’t a big K man. More like a lazy can of corn kind of outing.
By Fan-coeur (means Fan-heart)
February 28, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
Damn, Frenchy, don’t you EVER do that during the regular season!
By BossLady
February 28, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Televised tomorrow 1:05 ESPN and March 10th 1:05 SportsSouth March 11th FSN 7:05 March 12th FSN 7:05 if anyone is advanced scheduling too.
By Fan-coeur (means Fan-heart)
February 28, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
Sure, Ron, welcome.
Sorry, McFann, I’ll use som’n else. Hmmm….lemme think.
By Fan-coeur (means Fan-heart)
February 28, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
The Pitts-Philly game is a slugging fest while we have a pitcher’s duel here!
By DAP
February 28, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
Mcfann only defensivly. mccann has the lowest feilding% out of him, ruiz and schneider. much lower, actually. and they both threw out more guys.
By Fan-coeur (means Fan-heart)
February 28, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
7 hits to 1! Cheeze Louise!! (like that better, McFann?)
By KC
February 28, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this
Steve McP: Aaah, I see that now. I saw Braves/Dodgers - TV: ESPN on the main page and assumed it was today’s game. Thanks for pointing that out.
By Lew
February 28, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
Don-Does the discount count for we who must order by mail? It may just be time to place yet another Ella Guru order from Vermont.
By MacdWolfpack
February 28, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the report on Resop DOB!
By i can't take it anymore
February 28, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this
FJR i would be down for a blog fantasy league
By ncscoots
February 28, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
Some Blogs Have Colloquialisms, YAI was coined by a far better blogger than I (though his/her name is now lost in the mists of time). :-)
Though you spark a mildly interesting idea of collecting all the really true got-legs sayings previously and currently used here on the blog. Perhaps someone might do so, and append them to the RROE (kudos to Braveheart, I think, for compiling that worthy list).
By Fan-coeur (means Fan-heart)
February 28, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
Ok, whoever is putting his screen name as Langer-fan, Fandruw Jones, Fan Kolb, Ron Fant, Fan-cisco Cabrera, and all the others: Quit the crack and be more original. It’s not even funny, nor does it makes sense. That’s copyright, too, buddy.
By Nick
February 28, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
Mets update:
David Wright committed an error.
John Maine gave up 3 ER in 1.2 innings (yep, he got yanked in a spring training outing).
By Fan-coeur (means Fan-heart)
February 28, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
See, coeur means heart in french. Your names don’t even have something witty.
By DAP
February 28, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this
fan-couer ok, so Pedro Feliz is better than Frenchy if he hits more home runs than him.
if everything else is equal, then yes.
if you had two players who had 150 hits per season, and one always hits singles, and one always hit homers, which one would be better?
of course the one who hit homers! a homerun is alwasy the best possible out come of an at-bat for the batting team. thats just a fact.
homeruns arent overrated by anyone here. there isnt one person that looks at homeruns and homeruns only as a measure of a hitter’s success. therefore, they arent overrated.
you cant make blanket statements like that on here, man. use qualifiers, or youre gonna get called out.
By bsj
February 28, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
Finishing my thought on Hansbrough, I think of 23.4 and 10.5 (Hansbrough’s stats in Roy’s disciplined system with other scoring options) versus 26.2 and 12.6 (Beasley’s stats in the KSU system with him as the focal point) as being comparable. If you want to be particular, Hansbrough picks up the extra 3 points and 2 rebounds in the KSU system. I second BravesFaninRockies thoughts. An argument could be made that in a less disciplined system, Hansbrough goes nuts and pushes 30 a game. Who’s gonna guard him?
But hey, baseball is in the air. The temperature was 31 at game time in Decatur, GA for the Bulldog’s game with Chamblee. The baseball feels like a cue ball at those temps. Brr.
By Double Deuce
February 28, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
Love Andrew’s commitment to his new team. A 240lb center fielder. I still get the same feeling I had last year and that is he’s just going thru the motions, doesn’t have that same drive to be great he used to have.
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
Francoeur just made a great throw to nail a dude at third.
Just got back from clubhouse, Hudson said he was just missing with his fastball, blah blah blah. Said his arm felt fine.
About 8 of 10 pitches were fastballs, he said. Changeup not there yet. Said some funny stuff about challenging Andruw and Andruw just being up there to take, not swing away. (Hudson was just having fun ribbing him.)
By Henry
February 28, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
Is there a secret to getting past GameDay Audio’s technical difficulties? I’m still not getting the game, dagnabbit.
Dave, this is becoming an annual ritual: life begins anew when DOB starts blogging from Spring Training. I’m about this close to dumping work the next two days and heading to Dark Star from ATL. Thanks so much.
Henry
By Fan-coeur (means Fan-heart)
February 28, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
And he ‘won’ a gold glove. Pathetic, more like disgusting!
Maine sucks, man.
By Ron FANt
February 28, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
Oh, sorry, forgot it was your blog, Fan-couer(means Fan-heart). Can you copyright after just 4 (pronounced “foeur”) days of posting?
By bsj
February 28, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
Too bad for the Mats. I’m thinking Maine has a bad year. I think his success last year was largely due to his funky motion. He hides the ball well, but he’s probably toast this season.
Fan-coeur, it wasn’t me who butchered your nick, but I do think the other names are pretty good.
By bsj
February 28, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this
Too bad for the Mats. I’m thinking Maine has a bad year. I think his success last year was largely due to his funky motion. He hides the ball well, but he’s probably toast this season.
Fan-coeur, it wasn’t me who butchered your nick, but I do think the other names are pretty good.
By N8
February 28, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
DOB
In all seriousness, the story about Lasorda is classic.
Tommy is one of my all-time favorite baseball people.
WOW. Waddya know? A bunch of hits off of Tom Martin, huh?
Nice to see (hear) Thorman get a hit off of a LH pither (even if it is of the caliber that Tom Martin is at this stage of his career).
By Scott Thor-Fan
February 28, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
Way to go Scotty!!!!
:P
By Phil Stock-Fan
February 28, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
Fanny Acosta
I resent you.
By Ronnie Fan Zant
February 28, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
wooooo
It’s FANdemonium!
By Townes Fan Fandt
February 28, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Que pasa con el blogo?
By Jiggy w'dit
February 28, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Good for you, Tyler Flowers! Get this guy on the team a.s.a.p., LOL!
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Flowers gives Braves a 4-2 lead with a big homer down the left-field line in the eighth, and now DeSalvo has put two runners on with none out in the ninth. He’s not got good command, needless to say.
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
Roswell’s own Tyler Flowers, by the way. He’s a mountain of a dude. Non-roster invitee who was in A-ball (Rome) last year.
Now DeSalvo has walked another, bases loaded with one out in ninth. McDowell out to get him. He’s out of game
Sidearmer Colter Bean coming in to try and get out of this
By Fan-dres Gallaraga
February 28, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
El gato grande es muy bien!
By bobby's cox
February 28, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
i hope we trade thorman. terrible and slow swing. just like la roche
By propp
February 28, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
Whatever happened to James Jurries?
By TBraveFan
February 28, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
I wish someone would take that bell away from whoever keeps dinging the dadburn thing at the game …. sounds like I’m listening to a fight instead of baseball
btw- DOB - I kept thinking they were talking to Tommy before I realized it was you on the webcast….
By McFann
February 28, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this
Fan-heart—
I was joking about using my catch phrase. Lots of people have done it (including Chipper). But hey, maybe I should trademark “sheesh” like you did with your name. (Kidding, of course. Use it in good health.)
And uh well, never mind. I guess maybe you did start the change-the-player’s-name-to-Fan thing, huh? : P
OK, DAP, OK, I read ya.
MCCANN GOT AN RBI!! WHOO-HOO!!! Only question is, uh how? Did it have something to do with that error?
By tyler Fansborough
February 28, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
No more yankee reject pitchers on the staff, please
By Tyler Fanwers
February 28, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
Tyler Flowers just answered who will replace Tex in 2009!
By Fanael Fanniard
February 28, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
Good glove, no stick. Sorry, amigos.
By Ale-Fan-dro Pena
February 28, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Where am I now?
By Fanael Fanniard
February 28, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
Yankee rejects Bean and Desalvo blow it. Nice first impression boys. Get out of town!
By Fan-ny Acosta
February 28, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
Que?
By Fanael Fanniard
February 28, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
Thorman does not have a slow swing - just a long swing.
By FJR
February 28, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
i can’t take this anymore, or for that matter, anyone who wants, shoot me an email at fjrabon@gmail.com if you want in the blog fantasy baseball league.
DOB you’re more than welcome to join in the fun.
By Austin
February 28, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
OMG!
The season is over! Frenchy is pulling everything and already a blown save!
Kidding. Of course.
By propp
February 28, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
Wonder if DeSalvo’s performance today caught Bobby’s eye…
By Mark Fanxeira
February 28, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Nobody will replace me, especially you, Fanwers
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
You probably won’t be surprised to hear that Bobby said DeSalvo must have had trouble with command because the balls were slick from the cold weather.
Uh, yeah.
Boyer also had some command issues, by the way. But he got a couple of strikeouts to limit damage. DeSalvo did not. He limited no damage.
By Capt. Caveman
February 28, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
HEY DOB
Does Andruw look “fat” this spring or is the camera just adding pounds??
By Will Ohm-Fan
February 28, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
oh yeah, well.
WILL OHMAN DRANK ALL YOUR MILKSHAKES!!!!
By ippississiM
February 28, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
Who is this Bean, and how quickly can he be sent back to minor-league camp?
By Brifan McCann
February 28, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
Few people know the proper way to fan a McCann, and that’s with a BriFAN, broseph.
By Bray-Fan Pena
February 28, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
Well played Ale-Fan-dro, well played.
By Fan-dres Thomas
February 28, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this
Was I supposed to catch that grounder, woops, my bad.
By ippississiM
February 28, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
Obviously Bobby Cox is also working out the bugs this spring, or else WHY ON EARTH put in a guy with a career ERA of 12.00 in a bases-loaded jam? Might as well have had Bobby go Chino Cadahia go out there and lob a few. Sheeeeesh.
By Jon
February 28, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
Ok, ok, the whole putting the word FAN in names thing is getting old unless its really cool or makes sense. Like McFann, or Fanny Acosta, or even Ale-fan-dro Pena. But Mark Fanxeira, thats just silly. Teix sounds or looks nothing like Fan.
By Fanny Fan-Filbert Fannerton
February 28, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
And sometimes, you just have to take it to THAT point.
By Bobby's Cox
February 28, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
long swing = slow swing….you need a short fast stroke to excel in the majors…i’ve been saying the same thing on this blog for years…i hope you’re one of the scouts i’m been trying to persuade Fanael Fanniard
By Fandel Castro
February 28, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
Where’s that little malinche Escobar? Tell him to come back, I just want to talk.
By Lew Hartfan
February 28, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
I am Lew Hartfan. #1 fan of Lew Hartman.
By Mark Fanxeira
February 28, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Jon sounds nothing like fan either. I don’t think you know how to play this game.
By chipper jones....fan
February 28, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
yeah…you cant do it with all of them.
By McFann
February 28, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
Jon is correct.
WE LOST??!!
Crud.
Hey, Brifan McCann, I got the monopoly on putting “fan” in McCann’s name. As a matter of fact, I used to have the monopoly on doing it at all until you all stole it from Fan-heart.
: J
By Claudell WashingFan
February 28, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
Can I join the club?
By McFann
February 28, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
Now, the second post at 4:28 was funny.
You know what the say, Capt. Caveman: Television adds ten pounds to your appearance.” The same must go for cameras.
By Deion Fan-ders
February 28, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
I am a fan of the baddest man in the land.
By Bobby's Cox
February 28, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
Brifan:
You should double it up…”Brifan McFann”“
what do you think eh?
By The Weight
February 28, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this
Take a Load Off, Fannie.
By Mark Fanxeira
February 28, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
Actually Fanxeira rolls off the tongue quite well. You guys just aren’t thinking outside the box. At least it wasn’t Mark Teixfan, or Fanrk Teixeira,or Marfan Teixeira, or Mark Teixfaneira…actually, I kinda like the last one…
By Brifan McFann
February 28, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
A good suggestion. i don’t want to infringe on any copyrights however.
:()
As far as your name, Bobby’s Cox, you should….no. I don’t want to tamper with that gem you got. In fact, I’ll just stay away from Bobby’s Cox altogether. Good Name though.
By ncscoots
February 28, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this
Now I remember what it was like to let kids have sugar too late at night.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)
February 28, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
Blog a day O’Brien is hard at it , Lew is the Grinch , Francoeur forgot his gold glove , Diaz is leading off and the fans have come out of the woodwork.
Spring Baseball must be back and all is right with the world , lol.
By Kieran, Long Island Braves Fan
February 28, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
Hey David,
Tommy Lasorda was actually up here talking to St Dominic High School’s Baseball team at a Charity dinner. I was fortunate to attend, as I am the Freshman Coach there. He is some talker man, great stories to tell. He started the Night off with this (roughly),
“My friend asked me if i was a fan of the constitution. I said, sure, the Constitution is what this country was founded on. Then he asked me if I beleived in Free Speech. I said sure I beleive in free speech, it’s essential. Then he said good because that what i need you to give on Tuesday.[A Free Speech for fundraising]”
It was a great night and Mr. Lasorda was very kind to offer his time for the sake of fundraising our teams trip down to Florida in March. We’re actually headed down to the Disney Baseball complex for a Tournament(Mar 24-28). I hope to go to a few Brave Games and maybe I’ll Catchya down there. Just very funny for me that you started off your Blog with that.
By doc
February 28, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
dob, took my girl in to meet don for her bday shopping spree. he was waxing eloquently about his times as a sav brave beat writer in the early 80’s. fun stories that might have gotten a bit more blue if the store hadnt been filled and my daughter there. btw, he didnt offer me the special on what we got since i took advantage of it the first go around.
listen, if don cant help you with the bike i could run up and help you tote retrieve it. heh heh
oscar comments other than they spread it around the horn pretty good. good movies with no dominate players. kind of understand why they pushed the release of blood to get it into 07 then brought it back. didnt you suggest the movie once with the oscar song winner? saw it last night and enjoyed it.
enjoying the commentaries and wont try to keep your boy straight at ella guru but says you got potential in the cd biz.
By OrlandoFan
February 28, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
I asked this before, but where can you listen to Internet broadcasts of the Braves’ games?
By JEB
February 28, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
What is it with you guys? You’re ” F’n ” up everyones name!
By Mark Fanxeira
February 28, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this
ncscoots:
You should eat some of this sugar we’re passin’ around here. It is Fan-o-licious!
By McFannŠ
February 28, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
Hey, no hard feelings, Brifan. ‘S good to have some big time McCann supporters out there! (Oh, yeah! Like there’s a shortage.)
: )
By Lew
February 28, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
Coach-I am NOT The Grinch. We were both using a borrowed computer and I forgot to log on as me. I assure you that DOB has met both of us separately AND seen us together. The only thing we have in common is that we are both people of Substance. I’m much better looking than he is and certainly more distinguished and refined.
By Tom GlaFAN
February 28, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
As an old teamster, Tommy is my favorite.
By ellaguru
February 28, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
I’ll give you the DOB discount, Lew. E-mail me. Same to you, Doc. I hear beanie-weenies just got cheaper at Wal-Mart so I can totally afford it. But you cannot take my place pickin’ up Dave after spring training, Doc. I plan on becoming TP’s ward, Robin to his Batman, Condi to his George. Or the other way around.
It is so great that baseball has started, y’all.
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this
Ellaguru, if they knew the gold mine you’re sitting on with the new LP vinyl section you’re adding, no one would feel sorry for you. You’ll need to use a shovel for the cash you’re gonna bring in.
By OrlandoFan
February 28, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this
Amen, guru
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this
Kieran, I just saw your post about LaSorda and was STUNNED. I mean, talk about small world. What are the odds of that happening, me relaying that story I overheard and you having been at the function he was talking about at some high school in NY. Or NJ. Or whatever. Unbelievable.
Doc, you should definitely hold Don to that discount. Don’t let him off the hook.
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this
Lew, you did throw us all for a loop with that screen name this morning.
And yes, I can attest to Lew and Grinch being two separate, but equal individuals. Equal, as in being, uh, as Lew said, “of substance.”
By DaFan O'Brien
February 28, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this
And the awatd goes to…..
Tom GlaFan
By Mark Fanxeira
February 28, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this
DaFan O’Brien
Just for that I’m gonna sign with the Marlins.
But really though, Tom GlaFan was pretty good…
By Kieran, Long Island Brave Fan
February 28, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
Haha yea very smallworld(Oyster Bay, New York by the way) and moreover, the purpose of the function was to fundraise a trip to the “Evil Empire” Baseball Complex where you are currently posted. Pretty funny stuff.
By bsj
February 28, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this
…Tom GlaFan…. and then it got old in a hurry.
By doc
February 28, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this
dob, i’ll take him up on it the next time around, i assure you didnt go in expecting it nor in the future. just wanted my daughter to get the vibes of a real record store. she enjoyed it and started up a conversation about one of the albums she got that left me in the dust but not the guru of course. i looked real smart when i chimed in because she at first was getting a sound track of juno and picked up something else. the guru must have thought i had lost my mind as i was speaking very much out of context. daughter waited to tell me about the switch until after we left saying i was wondering why you were making those comments. kids leave ya hangin.
look dave if he forgets his cape or forgets wing man manners one day know that i am available.
don would look real cute in one of those bucket rigs for the bike sitting next to the man in black. maybe you guys ought to consider it. oh the image.
By jeffery
February 28, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this
DOB- You certainly seem to be in your element and this was a particularly lighthearted and rare-formed post. Very nice read and no ; you aren’t being very nice today but it works. One is compelled to inquire “what WERE you smoking?” prior to the chow-line head-of-the-heard scenario but one will refrain from doing so out of respect to a guy that is slowly becoming a Braves standard in his own rights. Thanks for the good inside look today.
By Taylor
February 28, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this
DAP, you’re an idiot. Seriously?
By Lew
February 28, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this
Don-Thanks. I’ll be in touch as soon as I return to the Glacier this weekend. Apparently they got 15 more inches of snow this week. Must be up to 20 feet by now (at least where they shoveled off the roof-I think they’re having to throw the snow up on the pile).
DOB-Yeah, there’s absolutely nothing to be gained by trying to convince those who’ve met me that I’m a slender guy. I would then seem as delusional as the Mets’ fans thinking they will win the East. I’m still good lookin’, though and I can definitely paint.
By GTI in Chicago
February 28, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this
OrlandoFan Not sure if you gotyour answer yet - you can listen to all the Braves games on the internet thru mlb.com (atlantabraves.com). The audio package is pretty sweet and doesn’t cost too much. You can also watch all the games thru the site as well,for more money - if you live outside the blackout area. Orlando may or may not be blacked out. If you can do it though, you should. The MLBTV service comes highly recommended by your truly.
By kcr211
February 28, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
DAP
You live in another universe from the rest of us. How do you put Castillo above Utley at 2b? McCann as third best catcher? Feliz as better than Jones AND Wright!?
That is audaciously ridiculous. Like, top ten most ridiculous things I’ve ever heard. May God have mercy on your soul.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)
February 28, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this
I’m sorry Lew , just busting your chops.
I should really stop logging in as Bob Wickman , lol.
By DaFan O'Brien
February 28, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
Survivor.
What an awesome show.
By bsj
February 28, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this
DAP, et al,
Feliz doesn’t hold Chipper’s or Wright’s jock until he gets a motor and a selective eye at the plate. He’s better than he’s played, I’ll grant you. Utley and Castillo are different types of players, but, overall, there’s no comparison. Utley walks all over Castillo. And, to this point, McCann is Brad Ausmus with a bat. That means he’s probably the best catcher in the NL, rivaling Pudge in the AL when healthy. And that is the chief concern with B’Mac. If he can avoid getting as dinged up as he was last season, then he’s going to produce.
I”m sorry, but why am I even trying to seriously answer this stuff? It’s ridiculous. Thank you, kcr211.
By chuckw/deadjournalist
February 28, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this
i’m going to try to head over to elle guru this weekend. gotta get my shopping in before i leave decatur for OTP.
although i’m going to find a way to get by there once a month or so if it kills me.
By McFannŠ
February 28, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this
And, to this point, McCann is Brad Ausmus with a bat. That means hes probably the best catcher in the NL, rivaling Pudge in the AL when healthy. And that is the chief concern with BMac. If he can avoid getting as dinged up as he was last season, then hes going to produce.
I agree, though Brad Ausmus is slimmer. ; ) But really, if Brian improves on his defense—which he most certainly will, IMHO—and doesn’t get as banged up as he did last year, then I think he will be the NL’s best catcher in 2008. But health is the big concern with him, and only time will tell.
By Teddy Jack Eddy
February 28, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
DOB since this is Tommy Lasorda day here perhaps you can clear up something I seem to remember fron living in Greenville SC in the 90s.I was told that both Mrs Bobby Cox and Mrs Lasorda are proud natives of Greenville.Do you know if it’s true ? if not can you find out and post the answer ? thanks a bunch.
By Lew
February 28, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this
Coach-That’s OK. The Grinch and I are quite a pair. No doubt about that. I just met Florida Braves Girl, too. She just dropped off some homemade cheesecake. I have a feeling I will not be getting thinner in the immediate future. I met Jason In Maine earlier during Spring Training and Sandy,too. Lots of bloggers at Disney this year.
All that and getting to meet Chipper, Bobby Cox, Carroll Rogers and Buster Olney. This was a real good Spring Training trip.
By YAI2
February 28, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
ncscoots—
Of course, I’m sure you’re correct, and what you say comports to a significant degree with my own memory of its evolution, but this post of yours from last Aug was the earliest appearance of YAI on this blog that Google could find, though it’s apparent from your use of it there that it already had cache by then.
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
Doc, it is a real “record store,” no doubt about that. Well, except until now they haven’t had records. But still, it’s what records stores used to be like, just with CDs instead of actual records.
Only difference is, the just-scraping-by owner is a lot friendlier than the archetype music snob you see playing the record-store-employee in movies.
Don’s got such a good rapport with his customers, even I felt compelled to be really nice when I was running his store for one day….
Teddy Jack, that I do not know. Not much info available about managers’ wives, as you can imagine.
We were waiting outside the clubhouse after the game when Tommy came over in his golf cart, asked where Bobby was, then went into the Braves clubhouse (still in full uniform) and spent about 5 minutes with Cox in the little office the visiting manager and coaches share.
By Greg in TN
February 28, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
Evening gang, or maybe 1001 Fans…
Had to shake my head at mlb.com. If I worked on my company’s wireless network during the day like what the folks at MLB did during the noontime hour I’d be bagging groceries by the seventh inning stretch. Not that there’s anything bad in doing that, mind you denizens. Somebody there clearly didn’t have a very smart day.
I hated that I missed our crusading everyman’s stint in the booth with Pete. Today’s game seemed like old times, kind of like the middle of last year. Get a lead, go to the ninth, lose the lead, go home. Only this time it’s not our closer, or our setup men having to close or anyone that would be on the 25-man roster this time next month. Spring is time to develop and see what the kids can do in a lot of these games to this denizen.
Bases on balls at inopportune times caused us much grief a year ago, so I’m disappointed to see a couple hurlers with control issues today. DeSalvo didn’t have it obviously, Boyer gave up some hits and free passes. Manny Acosta’s inning of work was a bright spot. The Dodgers stranded 12, so we did get out of jams today on the mound with the notable exception of the last frame. Another nice thing to see was Frenchy’s two OF assists and Diaz throwing Kemp out trying to take 3rd.
I got a kick out of this… Hu truely was on first base today, but was erased by Bryan Pena trying to steal second.
All eyes are on the start tomorrow by Jair Jurrjens as the Dodgers return the favor and conclude the home-and-home series at Dark Star tomorrow. Will have to tape this game, but will be following along with the denizens as I can online. Great stuff today DOB, thank you for the reports from Vero.
By bsj
February 28, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
McFann, Late last season, I think the dings were catching up some with B’Mac. While his bat seemed to improve, his defense suffered. I don’t think it’s laziness (see the old Javy Lopez). He was just beat up. Healthy, he doesn’t let those pitches by.
DOB, Don’s store is in Toco Hills? I think I remember you saying this before. I’m in Decatur. I have no excuses. I might have waited until Accelerate came out, but I’ll be getting over there tomorrow. Can you name a recent must-have?
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
Greg in TN, there was indeed plenty of solid D, especially Francoeur’s rifle throws. And I, too, will be eager to see what Jurrjens does. Though this first start for each guy is really not much of a barometer, given they only go two innings and most haven’t pitched in a game in months. Still, you can’t help but look forward to seeing him, especially with the game on national TV and all….
bsj, yes it’s in Toco Hill shopping center, right down in that corner next to Ace Hardware. Get the Whigs CD if he’s got a copy. Or if you like stuff like Neko Case and Lucinda Williams, you’ll like Anna Cramer and the Lost Cause, another great Atlanta band.
But he probably won’t have a used copy of either of those. I know he’s got plenty of Cash, some used, including usually one or two from the American Recordings series. And he’s got a better selection of Townes Van Zandt than almost anywhere else I’ve ever been, if you’re into genius songwriting.
By stephen jones
February 28, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
Lew:
is there a general assembly area where everyone meets or should i put a brown bag on my head? I will be there in a few weeks and would like to meet some of these cats.
By McFannŠ
February 28, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this
Agreed, bsj. I know it wasn’t laziness. He was really banged up.
NIGHT ALL!!
By David O'Brien
February 28, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
bsj, if you don’t have the Drive-By Truckers, and you like country-tinged southern rock, that’s the one to get. That or the new CD by Band Of Horses, terrific band from South Carolina (after a stint in Seattle). Their latest one is as good or better than their phenom debut album….
And the new Bob Mould CD is his best in a long time, if you’re into him. Just listened to it twice during my four hours of driving today.
Gotta say, too, that if I were to subtract songs 4-7 of the White Stripes album, the rest of it’s a fine album. Songs 1-3 and 8-13 are great. I just find those middle four annoying.
Should’ve made a great nine-song album and left out “Conquest” and the other three after it.
By Matt the Brave
February 28, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
DOB, could you tell me why the ClearChannel is choosing not to do any of the radiocasts right now for Spring Training? I mean, honestly, do they really think that the news thing is work on the AM against ESPN and WSB? I got to hear a little bit of the game on XM, but had to listen to Dodger announcers (which is better than nothing, but still!). Any insight that you could give would be much appreciated!
By doc
February 28, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
yeah dob i came close to changing it to cd store and that isnt what it is only and the stores i frequented were like the good book stores of old where the owners were rabid about their passion and loved to pass it on. sound like your man? yep.
By bsj
February 28, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
Genius songwriting sucks! It’s so … incomprehensible.
Haven’t heard of Cramer and Lost Cause. Do they play locally? I’m a little out of touch with the local scene. Something about a wife and two kids makes the Star Bar or the Dark Horse a little less accessible. But the kids are a little older now. I might venture forth and check out an act or two.
And the Whigs? are they tied to the Afghan Whigs in some way, or is it the same band minus a frontman or something.
I heard Olney filling in on Mike and Mike yesterday morning. He classified the Braves, basically, as also-rans. I don’t know, but every season for every team starts with a few “ifs”. “The Mats will be good if…”, or “If the Phools can do this…”, and the Braves are no different. Looking beyond the “ifs”, I think the Braves rotation is the best in the East with Hampton in it, with James/Jurrjens at the backend. Offensively, it’s close, with maybe a slight edge to the Phils. My point is, the Braves aren’t also-rans. They’re legit. IF it comes together, this team can win a pennant.
By Runnin
February 28, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
DOB Does Don have White Mansions or The Legend of Jesse James? Both are theme albums written by Paul Kennerly, sort of country/rock operas. Great stuff! Historical, great music, etc. There should be more projects like this, imo.
Cash plays Frank James on the The Legend of Jesse James. Many great musicians on both records
By Greg in TN
February 28, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
Very true DOB. This is a time to see some of the kids. One thing I failed to mention earlier was the day Jordan Schafer had today and the homer late by Tyler Flowers was a nice surprise.
It’s still early, but I’ve gotta be encouraged with what has happened to this point.
By TennesseePaul
February 28, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this
JJJ. Jieer Jurrjens tomorrow. I am excited about this. This is good. I’ve got a “meeting” scheduled from 10 to 1. One of the best meetings of the year.
By TennesseePaulŠ
February 28, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
Awesome McFann.
By uga-brave
February 29, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this
prediction,
andruw will have a great year.
ahtletes are athletes no matter how many pounds they carry. said this before #25’S last season, knew he would press and try to do something different.
aint making excuses for him, he basically stunk last season, but i think he had that contract on his mind.
laugh if you will, his 05 and 06 years were monsters. how many CF’S will ever do that?
for me no matter what he did, and he looked bad at times last year, i will always remember a guy that was in the lineup everyday.
always have been and always will be a fan.
considering the tone of the BLOG, how about a McANDRUW, even though it sounds like a breakfast sandwich, i think he deserves a standing ovation for the oohs and ahhs he brought us.
if not just ask kenny rogers.
By David O'Brien
February 29, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this
bsj, Anna Cramer and her band just signed with International Hits, the hip, rising Atlanta label. She’s excellent, saw her and her band at The Earl a month ago with another great young Atlanta band, the Selmanaires….
Whigs aren’t related at all to Afghan Whigs. Whigs are local. Young guys taking off, their latest album has gotten a lot of national attention. Them and Black Lips are probably the best of the local rock bands to emerge in the past 5 years or so.
By uga-brave
February 29, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this
sheeeeesh i dont think this thing is working, WITH ALL DUE RESPECT, McFaan you are a great blogger.
your conviction to a certain brave, weird as it might be, earns you some weird kind of respect.
as william wallace said that will be the last time i will ever say sheeeesh. you keep doing what you are doing. the other fan-couer guys and their fans are just giving you a hard time.
at least you were original!
By Kev
February 29, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this
Hey guys, please IF someone has any LINK, site or something for me to WATCH or even LISTEN,please post it… PLEASE i dont wanna miss tomorrow’s game, any HELP will be very ver very appreciated…please.
By jmart
February 29, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this
I know that Mrs. Lasorda is from Greenville, SC. I do not know about the other lady.
By JP
February 29, 2008 12:55 AM | Link to this
Anyone has a link to watch tomorrow’s games??? channelsurfing.net isnt showing any games yet so im stuck there, can anyone pass a link or site where you can listen to the game or something… im stuck here…and DONT wanna miss this game..JJJ is Pitching :(
so i wait for that post BRAVES FANS
By ippississiM
February 29, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this
Kev and JP: So, you guys won’t be able to get to a TV, I take it? I’m not sure, but depending on your broadband provider, you could try ESPN 360’s streaming video if nothing else works for you. My OS is not compatible with their plugin, but I’ve heard you can watch a live stream of whatever happens to be on ESPN. I don’t know how far to trust my sources on that one, though.
Maybe that will help.
By uga-brave
February 29, 2008 1:29 AM | Link to this
if anyone cares i was down at the THRASHERS game tonight.
as much as we hate liberty, or AOL, there cannot be a more worse ownership then the ATLANTA SPIRIT.
think about the fact that phillips arena has been opened for almost 9 years and neither the hawks nor the thrashers have ever won 1 playoff game.
everybody makes the playoffs in hockey and basketball. think about it again, 8 years between both franchises and ONE playoff appearance.
DOB, i know you have met certain player’s in the spirit. AKA RUHTEFORD SEYDEL ted turner’s son-in-law.
they have made a mess of a great arena.
PHILLIPS ARENA is a great place to watch hockey and basketball.
too bad we still have BILLY KNIGHT, AND DON WADELL.
By Coach(Lets Go Braves In 2008)
February 29, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this
Got a TV and cable ? the game is on ESPN. If your to cheap for that , look up the local sports bar and bribe the bartender with a little cash so you can watch the game and knock back a beer or two.
If neither and under eighteen…..your S.O.L.
By Coach(Lets Go Braves In 2008)
February 29, 2008 1:35 AM | Link to this
Make that under 21 and S.O.L.
By nOLIE
February 29, 2008 1:47 AM | Link to this
Cash plays Frank James on the The Legend of Jesse James. Many great musicians on both recordsRunnin
Is that from the TV movie The Last Days Of Frank & Jesse James that he starred in with his buddy Kris Kristofferson?
By uga-brave
February 29, 2008 1:56 AM | Link to this
LEW,
loved your reports from spring training, i believe your reporting gave us a lot of ammo.
i will always respect your love for the braves. YOU TALK AND WALK IT!
from one good dawg, you are a GREAT BRAVES FAN. PERIOD.
you deserve it ACCOLADES.
now that the lovefest is over, do you really think andeson has beat out brandon jones?
as for me i believe having him on the bench, might be better late in the game.
either way my man loved reading about your experience.
none of us plebes got to meet bobby, chipper, kotsay, or bobby dewes.
plus you got all of your great ART SIGNED. pretty good stuff.
hope chipper enjoys the DEER you painted for him. got a hunch you will enjoy it as much he will!
By Coach(Lets Go Braves In 2008)
February 29, 2008 1:58 AM | Link to this
Cheeseburger in Paradise……as the song title by Jimmy buffet goes.
Or , as we could describe Andruw in Dodger blue.
By uga-brave
February 29, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this
BayAreaSteve,
I will leave a WHISKEY for you.
By BayAreaSteve
February 29, 2008 2:47 AM | Link to this
Leave it where? Somebody’ll pilfer it.
By BayAreaSteve
February 29, 2008 3:10 AM | Link to this
Josh Anderson’s seeming ascendence is surprising, at least in my limited mind.
A week ago, I would’ve bet my life…well, DOB’s life…OK, fifteen dollars, on Brandon Jones making the team to platoon with MattyD.
With Lew’s reports, and Anderson’s early playing time, it sure appears as though the boys making the decisions want Anderson to show enough to make the team. If he does, will Jones and Anderson both travel north?
Not to mention, will BobbyC give Diaz a chance to play every day? Please set your opinion now, a month before Opening Day.
By ippississiM
February 29, 2008 3:25 AM | Link to this
Anybody else ever check out the cardboard gods blog? I was reading the archives and found a story about baseball’s first, and possibly still only, player to be used exclusively as a pinch runner—Herb Washington of the A’s. Kinda like nipples on a chicken. This guy had 0 career plate appearances, played 0 innings at any defensive position, and ran in 91 games in 1974. He stole 28 and got caught 16 times. Fred Wilpon did some wierd stuff.
By dragrace79
February 29, 2008 3:49 AM | Link to this
Hey, DOB, was that you today at dodgertown in the “press box” next to bowman in the ireland hoodie? credentials were tucked neatly away in the sweatshirt. wanted to say hi and give you my appreciation, but just wasnt sure. oh well. all in all, dodgertown was a blast as usual- well worth the hour plus drive from west palm beach. got to talk to scott thorman for a bit, since i was directly behind the braves “dugout”. Anyone who has been to dodgertown knows why “press box” and “dugout” are in quotations…thorman really impressed me with his attitude today and converted me to a scott thorman supporter for sure. i for one hope he turns things around. good guy. from where i sat, resop and acosta looked lights out. got cooked in the sun and had to seek refuge by the press box by the time desalvo was in. the sun (and his control) was brutal. oh well, my last trip to dodgertown was memorable nonetheless. see you guys in port st lucie this week.
By dragrace79
February 29, 2008 3:53 AM | Link to this
by the way…obviously not a regular poster here at the old blog, but i read it daily. anyone hitting braves games in port st lucie or jupiter coming up? i’d love it if you dropped me a line at dirt59@aol.com. would love to talk some real braves baseball with someone in the know other than my dad for once. hope to see y’all out there. -rob
By ippississiM
February 29, 2008 4:09 AM | Link to this
First we’ll use Spahn then we’ll use Sain Then an off day followed by rain Back will come Spahn followed by Sain And followed we hope by two days of rain.
This is kinda what last year’s rotation was like—Smoltz and Hudson and pray for somethin’—but I think that as long as those scrubs DeSalvo and Bean don’t go away soon then we don’t have much to worry about.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
February 29, 2008 5:09 AM | Link to this
BayAreaSteve , Cox has almost exclusively used a four man outfield consisting of two center fielders and two corner outfielders.
Example : last season Andruw Jones CF , Willie Harris CF/LF , Matt Diaz LF and Jeff Francoeur RF.
In 2006 : Andruw Jones CF , Ryan Langerhans CF/LF , Matt Diaz LF and Jeff Francoeur in RF.
This upcoming 2008 season : Mark Kotsay CF , Josh Anderson CF/LF , Matt Diaz LF and Jeff Francoeur RF.
I hope that explains why Josh Anderson was the plan all along and not Brandon Jones.
By Moby Grape
February 29, 2008 5:50 AM | Link to this
I hope that explains why Josh Anderson was the plan all along and not Brandon Jones.Coach
Makes sense, but I wasn’t aware that you were in on their plans. I’m not gonna agree that Anderson was the plan all along, or that it will even happen. I think it’s been open and still is open depending in part on how spring training goes. It does seem as if the odds on Jones might be a little less now. Too early to predict. I would prefer Anderson if it seems at all likely that he can get on base enough to be useful. His minor league numbers do not show a great on base ability but if he could at least live up to them, say .325ish, he would likely be an asset.
By David O'Brien
February 29, 2008 7:00 AM | Link to this
dragrace79: that was me in the Ireland hoody, with hood up in the early innings (it was cold in the shade and wind, but great outside in the sun).
By David O'Brien
February 29, 2008 7:06 AM | Link to this
BayAreaSteve, Anderson’s “ascendance” is based in large part on his abiiity to play all three OF spots including CF, and on their readiness to give Diaz more than platoon status, to play him most of the time in LF.
Braves must have a backup CF, and with Infante on DL to start season, they wouldn’t have one if they kept just B. Jones and not Anderson.
Only other real option is Lillibridge, who can play CF, but they wouldn’t want him out their on any regular basis for a week if Kotsay got hurt, etc. There’s a chance Lillibridge will make team out of camp because of versatility and Infante’s status, but Anderson still seems likely for fourth-OF job over B. Jones.
By cd
February 29, 2008 7:33 AM | Link to this
DOB, thanks for the travel notes. I promise, last question: what time do the simulated games typically start? I know there will be no schedule per se, but are they typically in the morning or do they try to stick to typical games times, 1:00 or even 7:00? Or is it just whenever Smoltzie wants it to start (when he’s pitching)?
By Lew
February 29, 2008 8:06 AM | Link to this
Stephen Jones-Dude, I don’t know about meeting all those people. Grinch and I are heading out on Saturday-him to Atlanta and me to the Vermont Glacier. Jason left two weeks ago and Sandy introduced herself to me at practice and I think she has returned home as well. Florida Braves Girl was just over for the day. Hopefully Savannah Guy will be down for dinner tonight. However, his wife has been seriously ill and it depends on how she feels today.
As for DOB and Carroll-I know their presence will be out and about, but with the in depth reporting and one on one coverage they’ve been giving us, you’d have to see if they will even have time-they are the ones to ask in this instance-not me. I was lucky enough to say hello, but we couldn’t manage to get together for dinner this time out.
As for Chipper and Bobby Cox-I got real lucky. Chipper blogged with us and asked me to say hello and he introduced me to Bobby Cox-most definitely a high point.
As for Buster Olney-we live about two miles from each other and just happened to hear each other talking about Central Vermont. About a minute later DOB came over and more formally introduced us. I had already met Bobby Dews and had done artwork for him. Now I get to do some more. I’m just a lucky guy, I guess.
In my experience, the two weeks between pitchers and catchers reporting and the start of the exhibition games is the best time to meet people, especially players. Things are a bit looser than now, when they really start intensifying their readiness for the season-with jobs to be won and lost. There should be some denizens down for the games, though. Maybe if you held up a sign saying “I blog with DOB on the AJC.” Might work.
By Lew
February 29, 2008 8:15 AM | Link to this
I really had expected Brandon Jones to platoon with Matt, but it has been Anderson getting all the swings on the main field this Spring. I have, quite honestly, been much impressed with the kid’s work ethic and his blazing speed. His defense has also been superlative. I think he has a good future ahead of him.
He will never be a power hitter, but he seems to be the type to listen to his coaches and may have the potential to be a gap to gap doubles hitter. Like the other day against UGA, he will certainly beat out many a ground ball and probably line a few over the shortstop and second baseman’s heads. He will then probably steal second. .
By David O'Brien
February 29, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this
CD, sim games don’t “typically” start any time, though generally late morning. Today Smoltz is throwing at 11 a.m., though I don’t even know yet which field he’ll be on. Carroll’s probably going to monitor while I stay over here and do what I gotta do at that time of day, including post a new blog.
By crunchzone
February 29, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this
dob, ft. liquordale. i like that. you obviously spend time at the elbo room.
By kdbanks
February 29, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
I can attest to Ella Guru’s quality for those looking for a good shop. Good selection of new and used, nice listening area, very helpful staff. It’s the kind of shop where you kill an hour or two just flipping through CD’s and walk out with 3 or 4 good ones, and you weren’t really sure what you were looking for in the first place.
By Lew
February 29, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this
This is getting to the point of absurdity. We are now due for 10-15 more inches of snow in Vermont tomorrow. I may have to hire a dog sled to get home from Burlington tomorrow night. That will make close to 30 inches since Wednesday. There was close to three feet when I left two weeks ago. It may not melt until July.
By Reid in EAV
February 29, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
DOB, you keep talking Atlanta musicians and I’ll draft ya to write me something over at Georgia Music magazine. Watch out! ;-)
By Thrillhouse44
February 29, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this
All the more reason to stay in Florida, Lew.
By DAP
February 29, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this
this is weird. i posted something like 45 minutes ago, and it never showed. blog trouble maybe? this is only a test.
By Slider29
February 29, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
DOB, have you read Jennifer Engel’s piece in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram this morning?
By Tad
February 29, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this
Is it Jair Jurrjens today at 1:05? Do you know who else will be going? Is Diaz in RF? How about Anderson in CF? Probably Schafer. Thanks.
By David O'Brien
February 29, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this
DAP, blog’s been in and out last few days….
Crunchzone, I lived in an apartment about 6-7 blocks from the ‘Bo Room in the early 90s, and had a buddy who was a bartender there. That was before they opened the deck full-time and made it more a tourist place. It was a local dive then….
Turns out I’m gonna probably go watch Smoltz throw, just in case. Don’t know if I’ll have a new blog up before then. We’ll try….
By 22oz
February 29, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this
I can’t decide if i need to stay away from the blog this afternoon or not. i’m dvr-ing the game, not sure if i wanna know the outcome before i watch it. but it is spring training after all, not like the games count. More excited about seeing the young bucks give it a go, really hoping Schafer plays, but he played the last 2 days, so who knows.
By ssiscribe
February 29, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
Ah hell, Lew, just stay in Florida. Or come home with Grinch … you could see where I’m hanging my Wurlitzer in my new house.
Speaking of ye ol new abode, won’t be able to watch any of the game today, it appears. Gotta be over there for some stuff. Sucks because I wanna see Jurrjens throw it (and listen to Wainwright and Santana on Gameday Audio), but gotta make sure there’s power and hot water and all that other stuff.
That, and a few more things to move. Then, it’s over, and it’s officially baseball season for the Scribe crew.
Enjoy the day, denizens.
The Scribe abides.
—30—
By Jon
February 29, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
Hey Dave, hows it going? Quick question, do you by any chance know who Bobby is putting in the lineup today?
By David O'Brien
February 29, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this
NEW BLOG IS UP
By DAP
February 29, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this
thanx, DOB.
By Jeff R
February 29, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this
Maybe more weight will help Andruw produce. Less weight last year didn’t seem to do the trick.
Andruw seems to be a good guy, but as he’s gotten older, he’s lost whatever edge he had.
It was a smart move by management to let him go his way.