Braves

By Pete H.

March 10, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

I think you’re right about Anderson, DOB. That may be the minor deal few noticed that has a big payback for us. I saw him play (on TV) for the Stros, and he really looks like a talent. And he makes a great insurance policy for Kotsay, who is almost certainly going to need days off now and then.

My worry now is the bullpen. They all seem to be hurting in one way or another. How do they look in real life?

By flylikeeagle

March 10, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

first?

By StingerSplash

March 10, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

Fifth?

Hey, at least it appeared they had a lot of Beatles to play with the schmaltz and cheese of Hall and Oates.

By Shaun

March 10, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

Good to hear that Diaz is going to get more playing time than perhaps ever in his career. I still say he’s a contender for the NL batting title.

By GTI in Chicago

March 10, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Would’ve been fun to watch Knucksie airing it out with Bobby Dews on the mound. How often does that sort of thing happen around baseball in ST? especially with both guys in their team unis.

By bravesfan

March 10, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

1st

By Lew

March 10, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

Anders-Respond to the other two thirds of your 11:48 post? Dude, the whole thing was a rant about how we think all you are concerned with is Glavine and that’s pretty much it. Go back and check-I covered all your questions- Honestly and with zero animosity towards you.

I’ve been quite civil all day today and for at least the last several weeks to you. I haven’t called you names or called our intelligence into question. Not too sure what more you expect from me. I’m never going to agree with you on which is the better team.

By 30YrBravesFan

March 10, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

First?

By richbrave

March 10, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

I guess everybody’s still posting at the other blog. Hyde Brother Dave.

By flange1

March 10, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for the new blog.

Any thoughts on the backup catcher race? I know Javy shot ahead of the crowd with the home run, but he has cooled off since that 1 HR. Is he still the favorite or is C. Miller, or B Pena or C Sammons?

Thanks!

By Lew

March 10, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

BTW-Everyone who was promised drawings, prints or baseballs-They will be mailed tomorrow.

By TN-MAN

March 10, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

DOB, wouldnt Hampton’s normal day in the rotation be on Wednesday? Looks to me like if he pitches Thursday, he will be taking an extra day?

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

Chopdawg, that was Lynn Jones working with Frenchy. He’s worked with most of the Braves, collectively and/or individually, on baserunning this spring. He’s a Braves minor league roving instructor (outfield/baserunning)….

David-ATL 14, Juan Rivera could be a good addition, if he’s able to play first. I haven’t heard how that’s going, that experiment with him at 1B.

He hit .310 with 23 homers and 85 RBIs a couple years ago. Not Andy Marte Triple-A numbers, but solid nonetheless (sorry, I couldn’t resist).

By TexasBrave

March 10, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

Athough ST isn’t over yet, with Javy in decline I was wondering who might have the inside track on the backup catchers job?

For those of you who have seen Pena, Miller and Sammons in ST or in the minors who, in your opinions, is the best defensive catcher?

By Big Al

March 10, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

Isn’t Shafer from the Orlando area? He should have a lot of support from family and friends this Spring.

As to who makes the final 25 man roster as utility players, it seems that with Infante out, that both Prado and Lillibridge will make it at least for the first few weeks of April until Infante is okay to play. Given Chipper’s propensity to get nicked up at any time, I don’t see how you can do it any other way.

By Bryan

March 10, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

anyone who is a gnarles Barkley fan will be happy to hear that the new album, odd couple, is great. The music is more rich and complex and cee-lo seems to be taking himself more seriously … Track 2 is a killer blues track - very subdued ….

Moving to Atlanta in two weeks! Thinking about season ticketts …

After it looked like we had the final roster spots wrapped up … Javy can’t hit and infante can’t play for longer.

There is another Bryan on the blog … I might change my name soon.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Flange1, I just wrote a story about that for today’s paper. I’m not keeping the good stuff to myself, believe me.

I don’t have a good feel for how it’s going to go, think Javy is 50-50 or maybe slightly better odds at this point.

By CC

March 10, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

Somehow Mike Hampton coulda been mentioned under “Walk Like A Man”, I think.

C’mon, Mike — how do you have the nerve to $ay you didn’t work out enough to get your leg$ in $hape to $support your $$$$trong arm$$$$?

You and Andruw…. sheesh.

By Steve McP

March 10, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

Good to see Boog doing the TV commentary - I thought that there was a chance he was moving to another franchise this year.

By Yars

March 10, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

DOB…..is it too early to speculate who will be the leadoff hitter? I’ve noticed KJ has never hit anywhere but leadoff during ST games. I think Kotsay hit leadoff one game so far. Today’s game on SportSouth! now playing: Revolution by the Cult.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

March 10, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

Juan Rivera would be a good addition. An even cheaper one from the Angels would be Kendry Morales. He is a good hitter who isn’t going to get playing time with Casey Kotchman there.

By OrlandoFan

March 10, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

Unless Javy snaps out of it, I think Thorman and BPena BOTH make the time. Thorman can play LF (well, fill the spot; and he owns an OF glove), and Pena can play 1B and 3B and, I think, the OF. Plus, he has had, from what I can tell, a better spring. DOB said his catching was better. Haven’t seen enough of Sammons to know. Miller is a known, I guess, but is he a desirable. My guess it that the job is Javy’s to lose based on his bat. But I think Thorman stays for exactly as DOB wrote, you never know what you’re going to need. Besides, with the pressure off, Thorman might blossom a bit. Or maybe not.

By Mad Mike

March 10, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, if Francouer is working on his base running, will that include his base stealing? I would think he could take 10 bags a year (maybe more) with his speed and it seems like he usually gets pretty good jumps…why do you think he’s been less than successful in that area so far in his career?

Oh and by the way, Dead Confederate puts on a great show. I guess you’ve prolly seen ‘em? My friends and I all agreed it was the best we’d ever seen at our little bar. (And still waiting for the Anna Kramer and LC album - not to mention Gutter Twins - dang ole snail mail.)

By KC

March 10, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

Before this handful of spring games he’s played in so far, Javy hasn’t hit in a game situation since spring of last year… so I think we should all give him some time.

The other possibilities all have minor league options left. They’re not going anywhere… so there’s no reason not to be patient with Javy and give him every opportunity to win the job.

By ncscoots

March 10, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

I finally feel the season (or, at least, its prologue) is finally here. Why? Because a glance at the previous blog showed a post about “Ryan Freel” and another about “intangibles”.

No matter how much things change, things remain the same. Surely a Carl Crawford post is, at this very moment, DYING to leap out of someone’s keyboard, LOL.

By Epinephrine

March 10, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

Man, Jair looks a little rusty, but 96? This kid throws harder than I thought.

I like the Kots Schafer Frenchy grouping out there.

Hopefully we see Mac turn it on today.

By Intangibles

March 10, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Most of the discussion about the potential of teams is a comparison of stats. But, though, for the most part, people are aware that there are always intangibles involved, they rarely enter into the discussion. Some refuse to acknowledge them at all. That is partly because we don’t like to admit that there are things outside the boxes we call our “understanding”.

But there are.

How many times in the last 10 years have the experts said that the Mets would win the East? They certainly had grounds to say so, but look how often the Mets failed. Was it because of the talent? Not necessarily (at least not solely).

On the other hand, how is it that the Braves continued to win even without the 3 cy’s being together on this team? Some would credit Cox. Others would site certain stats. There are many ways to try to explain it, but all will fall short without recognizing that there are things that are really not explainable.

Someone mentioned Counsell. I see him as having pretty impressive intangibles. Much of what he offers can not be explained. But he seems to be like a virus to the opposing teams — you don’t really see him, but he causes trouble and he makes a difference on a winning team.

Some people are winners. Not that they have special talents, but they just seem to win. They can have talent, but that is not all there is to them. For example, Jeter is not as talented as A-rod, but Jeter is a winner and A-rod is not. I know that what I am saying probably sounds too simple. It is not really simple, but it is real.

Getting back to the Braves and the Mets… when did the Braves finally lose the division and when did the Mets finally win? Interestingly one element changed on both teams. In comparison to years past, both teams had a night/day difference. Among others, Beltran was a different player that year. The Mets as a whole where a different team. There was something invisibly visible. By contrast, there was something invisibly visible that was missing from the Braves.

I remember during that year that I read one (only one) article about part of the reason for the difference. And it was only in regard to Beltran. The difference? —— Julio Franco.

Interestingly, did you notice that last year the Mets had Franco at the first part of the season, but not the last? It was a different team (with virtually the same players).

I know, many will not be comfortable with what I am saying. That is okay with me. But anyone who has played any sport very much knows that certain players, regardless of their talent, are important to the team. This is not intended to exclude talent as an essential part of winning, but it is to recognize a part that is also there, but seldom acknowledged.

I remember the Big Red Machine. Johnny Bench and Pete Rose got most of the ink. But even though they faded and Rose was traded the Reds were competitive until they traded Tony Perez. He was more valuable to that team than the sum of his numbers.

Sadly, this too is looked over when it comes time to vote for Hall of Famers. Stats are what get people in. But this ignores the object of the game (at least to most people) — to win. Some players are good at doing just that… even without the stats. Not to open a can of worms, but it seems to me that Murphy brought more to the table than his talent, though his talent (as compared to others of his era) was top notch.

Anyway…. just a different angle to consider.

By Robert

March 10, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

DOB

Is there anyway that the Braves platoon Schafer and Diaz in LF, so when Kotsay needs rest, Schafer slides into CF

By Robert

March 10, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

DOB

Is there anyway that the Braves platoon Schafer and Diaz in LF, so when Kotsay needs rest, Schafer slides into CF

By McFann

March 10, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

YEEEHAA!!!!!!

Welcome to Spring!!!

By taylor s

March 10, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

DOB, what do you think of Ryan Freel as our super sub? Not sure if he’s played any first base but he can play all three outfield positions and be our every day third basemen if chipper goes down. I just read where the Reds are looking to trade him. Shouldn’t take a whole lot to get him eather.

By Patrick

March 10, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

Updates DOB???

How did Jair look in the first??

By ncscoots

March 10, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

I finally feel the season (or, at least, its prologue) is finally here. Why? Because a glance at the previous blog showed a post about “Ryan Freel” and another about “intangibles”.

And please take note that a mere post ABOUT such posts is enough to make them proliferate from one blog to another. Yikes, jeepers, and Holy Cornelia!

By Kev

March 10, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

I bet McFann is all joy after that RBI single by McC.

By Epinephrine

March 10, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Intangibles,

I mean this with all due respect…but that might be the single stupidest thing I have read on this blog. And believe me, that is saying a heck of a lot. I am literally in shock right now that there is someone in the world that believes that Julio Franco’s prehistoric bat speed and questionable leadership is the missing ingredient in a championship team. I mean honestly, I want to give you a standing ovation, because that is really spectacular stuff.

By Braves20

March 10, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

Intangibles - From 1992-2005, it just wasn’t “cool” to pick the Braves. Doubt anyone picked them in ‘91 either.

Interesting line-up with Lillibridge and Prado both playing out of position. Hard to image Prado backing up SS during the regular season. Many question if he has the range to play 2B much less SS.

By propp

March 10, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

With JoJo’s location problems,does a good start today pretty much lock down a spot for Jair?

By flange1

March 10, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

DOB and Scoots,

Any chance the Braves will make a trade for Carl Crawford?

He would fit in in LF. Maybe the Rays would like Thorman and Ring?

No? oh well…

Seriously, read an article indicating the Rockies are not happy with their second base situation. Wonder if they would consider Prado, Ring and Dan Smith for B. Fuentes?

By nOLIE

March 10, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

The Wire ended last night, and the final episode was terrific (unlike the unsatisfying conclusion to The Sopranos, but that’s another story…)DOB

OMAR :-(

By MattyO

March 10, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Hampton’s going to throw Wednesday not Thursday right? That would keep him on the 5 day schedule. Good to hear he’s feeling good. I’m really pulling for him. I like our rotation a lot with him in there. Also liking Jurrjens more and more. Nice pickoff to end the inning. Go Bravos!

By BT

March 10, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

JJ is for real!!

By ncscoots

March 10, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

flange, you’re killin’ me, man, just KILLIN’ me.

And, for sure, some of our more recent additions to the blog are wondering, “What the heck are they talking about?”

On a regular baseball note, run screaming from the idea of Brian Fuentes. Screaming, I say.

By Oregon_Braves

March 10, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

I vote for one trade for Carl Crawford, Rocco Baldelli, Ryan Freel AND Chone Figgins. Throw in David Wright while you are at it, Wren.

By Scuba-Steve

March 10, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

DOB, where’s the play by play!!!!????

By KC

March 10, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

Between Schafer, Anderson, G.Hernandez, B.Jones, and others… I don’t think we need to worry about the future of our outfield.

Pretty damn nice crop of talent there, it seems to me.

By KC

March 10, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

DOB: No in-game updates?? Geeze… falling down on the job!

By BT

March 10, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Two zip Braves in fourth.

By Tomahawkin' Again (Like it's 1995)

March 10, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

DOB, I know it’s just spring training, but how bad are the Cards going to be? Based on their play the last few games, they’ll be lucky to win 60 games.

By Jon

March 10, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

I think this Jurrjens kid is for real you guys. I mean, I know its Spring Training and all, but the Kid has been impressive, 4 innings of 2 hit ball today against St Louis. I cannot wait to see what this Kid can do in a full season. Gonna be fun to watch.

By nOLIE

March 10, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Between Schafer, Anderson, G.Hernandez, B.Jones, and others… I don’t think we need to worry about the future of our outfield.KC

I guess, as long as you aren’t looking for much power at all. Very unlikely any of them would even average 20 homers per year. If one of them fills center well in the next few years, the rest might very well be gone.

By TJ

March 10, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Watching Jurjenns mow ‘em down, and Schafer looking like… yes, Grady Sizemore… I’m really struggling with a bout of unbridled enthusiasm. MetroMan, someone, slap me back to reality!

By ColoradoBravesFan

March 10, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

DOB has been provided yupdates on the previous BLOG. I copied his post below…

By David O’Brien

March 10, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Schafer leadoff double and goes to third on E8 (booted)

Then Kotsay singles up middle to bring him in.

In top of first, Jurrjens gave up a walk, faced four batters, couple of groundouts and a fly.

By David O’Brien

March 10, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

B-Mac joins the hitting party with an RBI single to right

By David O’Brien

March 10, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

Juan Gonzalez reached on an infield hit with one out in second, but Molina grounded into DP. Jurrjens faced seven guys in first two innings.

Lillibridge made a really nice play and strong throw on Gonzalez’ grounder down the line. Lillibridge has got a hell of an arm, better than I thought.

By David O’Brien

March 10, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

Hammy, Diaz caught in instructional league with Kansas City a couple months before Braves traded for him.

By David O’Brien

March 10, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Schafer drew a walk (so did D. Hernandez earlier inning) to put two on for Kotsay with two out….

By David O’Brien

March 10, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Kotsay FC to end inning

By David O’Brien

March 10, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

Jurrjens gave up a two-out single to Adam Kennedy, then picked him off 1B. Impressive, this kid. Impressive.

By ssiscribe

March 10, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

Top of the afternoon, folks. Jurrjens with ANOTHER good outing. I think barring a total collapse, he’s got a rotation spot pretty much nailed down at this point.

Interesting to see Prado at short and Schafer in left. Like Jurrjens, I believe Anderson is pretty much a lock for the fourth outfield spot at this point, partly for his ability to play center, partly for the way he’s shined so far in camp. Dude has played very well and deserves to come north.

Prado, though, is interesting, especially now that he’s getting at chance (at least today) to show he can play short. Pete said on the Webcast earlier Prado said he played a handful of games in the minors at short, but most of them were several years ago. Agree with all above that if Prado can play short, he’s on the team. I just don’t know if he can cover the hole well enough.

And after a shaky start, the folks on the coast should know Wainwright has settled down, just got a double play to get out of the fourth.

—30—

By Pete H.

March 10, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

I doubt the Reds are interested in trading Freel as a backup. There are several teams who want him to be their starting CF and will pay accordingly.

As for Fuentes, his arm is hanging by a string.

Looks like Jair is on his way to sewing up the No. 5 starter, or even No. 4.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

March 10, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

I don’t know about everybody else but I really feel good about this team. This Braves team has one thing the Phils nor the Mets have and that is depth. I look at this team and everywhere excpet maybe 1B I think this team can withstand injuries and not lose too much.

By ssiscribe

March 10, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Jurrjens this spring: 9 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 2 BB, 4 K.

So far, so very good for the young hurler.

—30—

By Turfmen

March 10, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

how is jurrjens pitching? somebody update me, i am stuck at work.

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Jurjens is done for the game.

2 hits in a row over the middle by cards.

1-2 nobody out.

By dny1979

March 10, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

DOB - How does Jurjens look?

By Bryan

March 10, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

Anyone else think that the picture of the new chop chick on the home page of the AJC looks kinda like the bad guy from No Country For Old Men?

I doubt that she looks like that … it’s just the way the glove is covering her face and the way her hair looks…

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

I didnt see Jair pitch but line says 4.0 IP 1 hit 0 runs 1 BB……. his spring ERA is an amazing 1.00

Molina flies to left.

Wainwright bunts himself out (hit by ball in batting box)

Flyball to francouer.

Inning done after it started like a mess.

By Anders

March 10, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

LEW

Regarding your 12:41 post. I agree you have been very civil today and it’s appreciated. I’ve tried to answer in kind. Let’s agree to call the dogs off on the Glavine thing. As for the better team - who knows? I still think they’re close.

Hey, who knows? Based on our dealings today maybe there is hope for peace in the middle east some day?

By ncscoots

March 10, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

nolie, Omar HAD to die…just no other way that story arc could have ended. Stinks, but it had to happen.

Give the cast and writers credit, this final year of The Wire was at least as good as season two (the best year of the show otherwise, IMO).

I plan to start using “That’s for Joe” as my new exit line after putting the hammer on anybody, LOL.

By Braveheart

March 10, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

how is it that the Braves continued to win even without the 3 cy’s being together on this team?

They scored 803 runs and only gave up 668 in 2004. A 135 run differential. Not surprising they won 96 games then with 6 decent but not great pitchers in Ortiz, Hampton, Thomson, Horam, Wright, and Byrd.

But maybe the intangibles of Julio allowed them to win one more game than Pythagoras would have thought. :-)

The impact Julio had that season towards that win total was his .378 OBP along with his .819 OPS combined with Laroche’s .821 OPS.

By Efrim

March 10, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Jurrjens has to have a rotation spot. Too good.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Like an idiot, I’ve been posting updates on the other blog. I’ll just throw them all here now.

By the way Jurrjens looks great again (4 innings, 2 hits, 1 walk, 1 K, 39 pitches, 25 strikes. He threw only one ball in each of his last two innings, 6 pitches total in third and 8 in fourth).

Wainright, not so good today. Just OK.

HERE’s the comments I posted, which aren’t gonna be much out of context:

From first inning, in chronological order:

• Schafer leadoff double and goes to third on E8 (booted)

Then Kotsay singles up middle to bring him in.

(In top of first, Jurrjens gave up a walk, faced four batters, couple of groundouts and a fly.)

• B-Mac joins the hitting party with an RBI single to right

*Juan Gonzalez reached on an infield hit with one out in second, but Molina grounded into DP. Jurrjens faced seven guys in first two innings.

Lillibridge made a really nice play and strong throw on Gonzalez’ grounder down the line. Lillibridge has got a hell of an arm, better than I thought.

*Hammy, Diaz caught in instructional league with Kansas City a couple months before Braves traded for him.

*Schafer drew a second-inning walk (so did D. Hernandez earlier inning) to put two on for Kotsay with two out…. FC to end inning

• Jurrjens gave up a two-out single to Adam Kennedy in third inning, then picked him off 1B. Impressive, this kid. Impressive.

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Schafer flies out to lf…..lazy fly ball.

By Scuba-Steve

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

Thanks David!

By Runnin

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

Jurrjens went 4 innings, 0 runs, 2 hits, 2BB, 1 SO, 1 pickoff. Looked very good. Could’ve gone 4 more at that rate.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

Gorkys Hernandez, the other kid they got in the Renteria trade (along with Jurrjens), is now in the game in CF.

By Wayne in Utah

March 10, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

DOB Back for a limited engagement, Wayne in Utah.

Been reading the blogs, but haven’t had the time to engage.

A couple quick questions: If Freel is available, he might be the answer to CF backup, third and second base. I don’t remember if he has the tools to get it done at SS or first though.

What’s the story with Brandon Jones? He came so highly acclaimed, and now he seems to be persona non grata?? Just curious.

Javy doesn’t look like a good choice so far, but it is early yet.

How does Prado look at SS today??

Thanks!

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

Kotsay hits it very good to CF but it was caught nicely by Cards CF.

5th is over, braves lead 2-0.

As i said I didnt see the start of the game, but announcers in sports south say he pitched marvelously. His line also speaks good about the outing.

Only 1 hit and not runs in 4 innings. Along with a pickup at 1B (runner), a walk and a K.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

dny1979, he looked very good. Not quite as good as the other day in Winter Haven (three perfect innings, but very good).

Pencil him in the rotation, just a matter of where they slot him.

By Maybe so

March 10, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Scoots and Epi. You can try to discredit the intangible post all you want. Many of your posts could just as well been discredited, but I have not tried to belittle either of you in any way. But it might behoove you to read what is written properly before you make judgment. Even then, there is no reason to belittle something that you may not understand.

The point of the writing was not to say that the Braves need to get Julio on the team. Though you may categorize “intangibles” as foolish, they are there. As is said in the writing, it is interesting that the Mets were a totally different team the whole time Julio was on the team. Not that he made all the difference…. nor is it suggested just how the difference was made, but just that there was a difference.

The point of the writing was to point out that some of a player’s value can not be seen by stats. This is true of the people that are thrown here and there by posters here on the blog. The posters are not in the clubhouse or in the dugout to experience a player but the tendency is to say, this one stays, but this one should go just based on the stats of ST. This is foolish at best.

The writing did not suggest who should stay or who we should get. Instead, I realize that there is much unknown for the common fan. As much as we like to think we know, there is much that we do not have privy to.

It might be wise to ask questions about the meaning before dirt is thrown at a poster than you do not know. It may just be that the person has more knowledge and experience than you read into the post.

It is funny to me that people can jump on a prospect and say he is not ready based on what they see in a few at bats in ST but then say that someone like McCann is going to be okay, that you can’t just look at ST. That is very true, but it could be just as true about a prospect. And again, their value to the team may be more than what they offer in terms of stats.

Let me make it plain, again, that I am not saying that talent and stats are totally thrown out, or even that they are less important than other factors. That would not be true. But ultimately we all must realize that there are intangibles that people like Bobby must be aware of and consider (things which we are not privy to). He often may not see them himself until later. That often happens. But he has expressed it often in interviews that I have seen when he says something to the affect of people may think I am crazy but I see something in that kid.

Have neither of you been in a position where you knew something was right or wrong but you couldn’t put it into words nor even meet your own sense of logic?

That is what I have heard Bobby do on several occasions. Certainly, we don’t always read the intangibles correctly. I would not say that Bobby has done it correctly all the time. But that does not negate the existence of the intangibles. They are by their very nature hard to put a finger on.

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Bouncer to 1st base handled by TEX.

Then a liner almost over the 3B line. Lillibridge was able to knock it down saving a double. Very very good reflex right there

Pujols bounces toward Lillibridge, right at him. 5-4-3 DP.

End of the 6th. DP was turned pretty smoothly.

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

BTW, Johan Santana 4.0 IP 0 runs 4 K

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Amazing……..Jeff takes a walk——— better believe it.

By propp

March 10, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

What can Freel really do that Josh Anderson more than likely can’t do? No reason to trade for a like value. I’ve seen Freel play alot, he is a hard worker, but I’ve seen him do some silly things on the base paths.

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

jeff steals 2B

TEX advances him on a liner to 1B.

By Duke

March 10, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah, Brandon Jones is still higly acclaimed and the Braves are excited about his future. Its just not his time yet with Diaz getting the chance to play everyday in left and the need for a backup CF on the roster. He will probably head back down to the minors and get the at-bats. I think it will be good to have him and schafer both down there getting those much needed AB’s. Plus he needs to work on cutting down the K’s.

By uga-brave

March 10, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

DOB,

sounds like your having a bad day. well at least your day is not as bad as elliot spitzer’s.

oh the hypocrisy.

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

BMac unable to drive in Jeff on a soft fly to CF.

2 outs jeff standing still at 3B.

By cd

March 10, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

DOB, I saw a guy named “Serina” (or something close to that) on the field while Braves were warming up before the game. I don’t think he’s a player but maybe a coach. Who was that guy?

By Epinephrine

March 10, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

To quote the talking heads, maybe so, “you are talking a lot, but you’re not saying anything”.

By ncscoots

March 10, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

Maybe so, if you thought I was belittling your post, then I apologize. That was not my intent. I was just making my usual bad joke about subjects which have, in the past, been the subject of countless posts and discussions, plus a few harangues and your-and-idiot’s. Kind of a standing joke, and not directed at you personally, at all. OK?

By TJ

March 10, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Simpson just made a good point: Schafer in left, Gorkys Hernandez in center, and Josh Anderson in right (in the 7th inning) might be the fastest outfield he’s ever seen.

By richbrave

March 10, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Braves locked up in a 2-0 game? Sounds like mid-season. Go Braves.

By TennesseePaul

March 10, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

I believe in the merit and value of positive intangibles. That is to say, I think intangibles, which are good for the body, soul and mind, have merit and value to a team, but not at the expense of talent and skill. I think this was part of the reasoning behind the Angels signing Hunter over AJ. Hunter has skills and talent, not as much as AJ, but he has more positive “intangibles” as well. Intangibles such as, Hunter can refrain from eating an 18 million dollar paycheck. News ain’t so happy in Dodgerland with the way AJ has been going. They’re already at wits end with his love affair with the low and a way pitches.

I’m glad Kotsay’s back is doing well. I’m holding out hope he can make the transition from AJ to the future smooth and pleasant for all Braves fans.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

Just got back from clubhouse. I’m telling you, Braves Nation is gonna love this young guy Jurrjens. Great attitude, smart, funny … oh, and hell of a pitcher.

Francoeur said they love playing behind him.

Oh, and that uncontested stolen base Francoeur got while ago? He said it was his first uncontested SB since fifth grade. The high-kicking Cardinals pitcher made it easy.

By Jared

March 10, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

My thinking was that the bullpen would be: Soriano, Moylan, Yates, Acosta, Ohman, Boyer and Ring.

If the Braves insist on a long-man like Carlyle in the bullpen, who gets thrown out? Acosta goes to triple-A to start the regular season? Boyer or Ring gets traded in spring training? Anyone?

By Julio??????

March 10, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Intangibles,

Do you feel that if the Braves had Franco this year, it would push them over the top?

Would he be a pinch hitter? Would he play first? Who from this years potential team would you eliminate?

Sounds odd to me to even entertain an idea like that…. I must agree that his presence is positive in the dugout…. I noticed him talking to players after a bad play or a bad at bat. That is truly an intangible element of his value.

Maybe the answer would be to have him on special assignment or as a coach - but as a player….NO WAY.

By McFann

March 10, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

Great interview, by the way.

Ahhhh…I love that guy!

By flange1

March 10, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

uga-brave,

The Spitzer story made me laugh out loud!

Holy Cornelia, what a piece of work!

Mr Perfect and prostitutes???

Cats living with dogs??

Oh the humanity!!

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Royce Ring got into some trouble…….1&3rd with 2 outs but got the cards to bounce to Prado at SS.

He was pitching OK, good movement. I like what i saw about him there.

By flange1

March 10, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

Scoots, how about Chone Figgens? :)

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

Javy goes YARD on 2-2 pitch, onto the grass berm in left field. Second homer of the spring.

By Tomahawkin' Again (Like it's 1995)

March 10, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

HR Javy, 3-0 Bravos in the 7th

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

JAVY HITS THE BIG ONE OVER LF WALL!!!

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

Schafer walks.

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Mets 0

Redsox 0

top 7th

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

Anderson takes walk————-bases loaded

By ippississiM

March 10, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

Just skimming through Tom Glavine’s 1995 autobiography (and getting pretty irritated by some of the things he said about loyalty, considering that he later went to the Mets as a free agent), trying to figure out if he might say anything about working with younger pitchers,and I read where as he was preparing for game 6 of the 1995 World Series, he took stress off of himself by realizing that if he blew it, they still had their “money pitcher” John Smoltz set to go the next night; several times in the first chapter he alludes to the fact that he considered Smoltz more reliable, even in 1995.

He also said that Greg Maddux mentored Mark Wohlers in 1995 and turned him into a real closer that year. Wish we had Maddux back too.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Hey, Gorkys singled up the middle in his first at-bat.

Of course, he did it off non-roster invitee Chris Perez, the right-hander Javy homered off. Still… single in your first AB after coming over from minor league camp for a day. Good stuff.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

Schafer and Gorkys out there playing catch to warm up before inning, Shafer in LF and Hernandez in CF. Anderson in right.

Three very fast CFs in the game at once for the Braves.

By ChampDawg

March 10, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Andruw needed to go but I was sorry to see Renteria go as well. Sounds like CF and SS are a bit of a mess right now. Another glorious job of trades by the Braves brass….. NOT!

By Gil in Mechanicsville

March 10, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

I think some folks have taken Intangibles comments out of context. I don’t think he/she was advocating bring back Julio but simply citing and example of how certain players bring something to the table besides just baseball skills. They are the type of players that always seem to end up on a winning team year after year.

One has to surmise that it is not just coincidence that the teams they play for end up as winners. Call it club house chemistry, call it people skills, whatever, they just always appear on the big stage at crucial times.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

March 10, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

A hit is a hit, no matter who you get it off of.

By Daybed Wagmoe

March 10, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

Looks like the Braves’ pitchers are looking good today, despite only one strikeout and seven hits. This Jurrjens kid is really exciting to watch and looks to be another great pitcher the Braves got from the Tigers!

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

Man this Brave team is so deep you could almost have to good teams out of them. That includes pitching

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

After watching flowers this spring, id have to say he really looks much better than Thorman. Whats his chance to make the team? I suppose none……. I cant understand that.

By Maybe so

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

Epi, if that is so, I join a very large club.

Scoots, sorry. I was not trying to start a big discussion. It is hard to discuss something that really can’t be grasped. It is kind of like trying to grab the wind with your hand.

But being aware of intangibles can raise some interesting questions, questions that really can’t be discussed or answered per se, but still they linger. For example, though I am very confident that Andruw’s leaving is a good thing, I still don’t know how it will affect the team as a whole. I don’t mean his stats, but his personage (for lack of a better word).

I have been on teams where someone left who really did not contribute much to the team (talent-wise) but their departure greatly affected the rest of the season for the team. Again, there was not something anyone could really define, but most everyone was aware that something was “different”. And the absence affected the performance of the team.

By the same token someone added to the team brings more than their talent. Some more than others. Therefore, it is hard to be dogmatic about what players would be good for a given team.

I admit that I am different in mindset. I had rather play (or watch ) the game unfold than to speculate about it. :)

BTW, yes “ok” All is well on the Braves front.

By Anders

March 10, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

Man this Brave team is so deep you could almost have to good teams out of them. That includes pitching

OK, who’s driving Overlord home? He’s abviously in no condition to drive himself.

By SAMMY THE HEAD MILLER

March 10, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

First!!!

By Pete H.

March 10, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

ChampDawg said:

Andruw needed to go but I was sorry to see Renteria go as well. Sounds like CF and SS are a bit of a mess right now. Another glorious job of trades by the Braves brass….. NOT!

I salute the concept of having performance artists make guest appearances here from time to time. The humor is appreciated.

By John

March 10, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

Flowers won’t make the team because he wouldn’t get enough at bats in the majors playing behind Texeira and McCann. I imagine next year he will be one of the front runners to take over for Tex.

By Mark Fanxeira

March 10, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

ChampDog

How are SS and CF a “mess” at the moment?

CF Kotsay - aquired via trade backup- Anderson Worst case scenario - Lil Bridge, Infante, best case scenario- Schafer comes in and makes us forget who all these new people are.

SS- The future is Escobar and he’s a beast. Time to believe backup- Infante, Lil Bridge, Prado Worst Case Scenario- trade for another. Best case Scenario- Well, it is already happening. Yuni comes in, bats 350, hits 15-20 dingers, 400+ OBP, 30+ SB, 1000 F% (impossible)

It isnt andruw and edgar, and I dont mean to flippantly suggest that they can be easily replaced, but trade wise- seems pretty sly to me. I mean we got Jurrjens…

And Maybe so are you a Braves player?

By Jon

March 10, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Pete H Why does it sound like to you that SS and CF are a bit of a mess right now? Yunel is more than capable of filling in for Renteria and Kotsay, if healthy will do just fine, if not, we have some pretty good prospects ready to fill in. Nothing wrong with CF and SS IMHO.

By Workinlkeadawg

March 10, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

Hey Flange- Heres a news flash….Braves are content with current 2B and LF positions. Kelly and Diaz are both clutch players and the Braves are lucky other teams haven’t thrown awrench into the money part of that situation. Both are playing for far less than market value. The Braves are smart. They have 2 potential All-Stars for the price of one. Barring injury check their stats in July.

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

Hey…..for those that said Prado does not have range for SS……. he ended the game on a play that could very well send Lillibridge to the minors when Infante gets here.

By GTI in Chicago

March 10, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

Game Over - Braves win 3 to 1. Gotta say: Jair impressed me. First time I’ve been able to see in pitch with my own eyes. Tidy, efficient, accurate, calm and cool. Threw just 39 pitches in 4 innings of work. Just one K, but who cares? Just outs, outs, outs. And his on camera interview after he came out of the game was good to see, too. I say pencil him right into the 4th spot in the rotation and don’t look back.

By Intangibles

March 10, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Thank you, Gil. You are correct.

Sometimes I am not good with words. :)

I don’t know what it was about Julio, but I wonder if some of the respect he received from players did not have to do with his tremendous drive and discipline at his age. He did not seem to have such an affect on teams when he was younger. As such, I am not sure if the intangibles of Julio would carry over into coaching. I don’t know if he would have the same drive that could be somewhat contagious.

Chipper and others have often said, “Hitting is contagious” And it seems that it is true… as well as many other things.

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Anders this team is sooooooo deep, your injuried mets will only dream of having this much depth. Dont be jealous, it is a sin.

By FJR

March 10, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

anybody else think that maybe so might have a calling in writing new age self help books? I swear he has the exact tone NAILED.

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Joe simpson said before the game was over that he has talk with lots of people about JAIR JURRJENS, people from inside braves organization, people from outside, scouts, players, coaches, announcers, etc. And the constant comment on this guy is “HE JUST KNOWS WHAT HE IS DOWN, HOW TO PITCH, GET OUTS PUTTING THE BALL IN PLAY.”. He says everybody is really impressed about him. (Include myself in that group).

By DonRose

March 10, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Intangibles, I have to think that there might be something to your Julio Franco theory. I personally thought the same thing even before the Braves let him go. I heard too many stories about how valuable he was behind the scenes. Now, obviously he cannot make a difference in a team without talent but if he could provide leadership and guidance to young players then that might be worth a few wins a year which could make a difference.

Too bad about his bat speed supposedly slowing down so much.

By Derick Richards

March 10, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

DOB, I enjoy reading the blog, but have never succeeded in getting a comment through. I’m trying again, and have a couple of questions. It’s not a complaint against Bobby Cox’s work — I recognize his value to the team and organization. But I’d to understand his baseball reasoning here: Why bat Matt Diaz eighth in the batting order when he hits as well he does, and why keep him in a platoon? I suppose here’s a third question: Why would you ever bat McCann fifth and then have faster runners like Francour and either Johnson or Kotsay batting behind him. Doesn’t McCann create a bottleneck as far as getting the faster runners across the plate? If you don’t want to ask Bobby Cox the question, I’d still like your take on it, DOB. Thanks.

By Braveheart

March 10, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

Why is that the very same people who incessantly complain about the flaws in the games of Andruw Jones and Frenchy and Rafael Furcal are the very same people who can’t understand why Tyler Flowers and Jordan Schafer are not gonna make the team?

Development is what it is all about. Could Schafer and Flowers make the same splash in the majors as Frenchy and Andruw and Furcal? Perhaps. But not likely. They are not quite of that caliber of talent. But they could probably be somewhat productive at the major league level.

But their development would probably be stunted if they rushed to the majors. Flowers and Schafer, after all, have not played a single game in their life above A ball. Not a single game.

But you want them to skip ahead three levels and go to the major leagues where the players have refined games and skills and mature bodies and the game moves at a faster speed?

It’s like asking someone to try to catch a train at a train station while the train blows past full steam ahead without stopping for you to get on board.

Just look at Furcal, Andruw, and Frenchy. They had the God given talent to survive and even thrive from the very beginning but all three were much more flawed than they should have been because they were rushed, did not receive enough seasoning at lower levels, and were not given enough time to fine tune their game.

Maybe Furcal would have gotten on base more, hit for a higher average, stole more bases and been a more consistent batter if he had played more in the minors.

Maybe Andruw would have learned to be an all around complete hitter if he wasn’t rushed at the age of 19.

Maybe Frenchy would know how to steal a base and how to take a walk and be a more complete hitter himself. Frenchy’s rookie season really should have been last season.

Frenchy, Andruw, and Furcal possessed unbelievable athletic talent that enabled them to survive and thrive despite the flaws and lack of refinement.

As talented as they may be, Flowers and Schafer are not of the athletic skills caliber of Andruw, Frenchy, or Furcal. The sheer athletic ability of that trio forgave alot in what they lacked in refinement. Without that caliber of athletic talent, you had better make sure your skills are pretty darn refined before you have any hope of surviving and thriving in the big leagues.

As Dusty Baker said the other day, Cox and the Homeboy Upstairs are no dopes. They know which players need to be completely polished before they get called up and which players can survive and thrive without the polish based almost completely on their athletic talents.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

Andruw needed to go but I was sorry to see Renteria go as well. Sounds like CF and SS are a bit of a mess right now.* ChampDawg*

Come again?

By Pete H.

March 10, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

**By Jon

March 10, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Pete H Why does it sound like to you that SS and CF are a bit of a mess right now? Yunel is more than capable of filling in for Renteria and Kotsay, if healthy will do just fine, if not, we have some pretty good prospects ready to fill in. Nothing wrong with CF and SS IMHO.**

Jon, I was making fun of another post. We are fine at both positions. Our problems are probably in the bullpen, if we have any serious problems.

By Anders

March 10, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

Overlord

Two teams? Come on. I think you’re celebrating a week early.

By Boricua

March 10, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

This will be the 25 Men Roster at 3/30/08 opening Day: Pitcher: Catcher: Infield: OUT: Hudson Mcccann Texeira Diaz Smoltz LOpez Johnson Kotsay Glavine Chipper Franc Hampton Escobar Ander Jurrjen Lillibridge Soriano Thorman Moylan Prado Bennett Olhman DL: Reyes Gonzo
Ring James Yates Infante

When Infante is ready Lilli or Prado going Down, Gonzo is ready Ring or JoJo be out and when James come out the same situation, if the Braves going to do a trade for more young bullpen help.

By flange1

March 10, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

Hey Flange- Heres a news flash….Braves are content with current 2B and LF positions. Kelly and Diaz are both clutch players and the Braves are lucky other teams haven’t thrown awrench into the money part of that situation. Both are playing for far less than market value. The Braves are smart. They have 2 potential All-Stars for the price of one. Barring injury check their stats in July. By Workinlikeadawg

Eh, dude, you totally missed my point.

I suggested traded our extra 2B to the Rockies for an extra bullpen arm.

I also made a joke to scoots about Chone Figgins and Carl Crawford because we had 5,000,000,000 posts last year about trading for them.

Appreciate your response, but it helps if you figure out what is going on first.

I have always been a KJ fan and even though I am not convinced that Matt Diaz is a full time player but with Anderson and B Jones we have enough on the team, we can fill that position internally.

By fastasballs

March 10, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

How the hell is CF & SS a mess? CF is going to be anchored by a seasoned vet, who when healthy can put up some very solid #’s. He’s going to be backed up by a future solid player who can fly & is very good defensively.

SS is Escobars, period. The Braves only traded Edgar because they felt Escobar could do as good or better job than Renteria did. Also gained in the deal was a starter & very good CF prospect.

By fastasballs

March 10, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

How the hell is CF & SS a mess? CF is going to be anchored by a seasoned vet, who when healthy can put up some very solid #’s. He’s going to be backed up by a future solid player who can fly & is very good defensively.

SS is Escobars, period. The Braves only traded Edgar because they felt Escobar could do as good or better job than Renteria did. Also gained in the deal was a starter & very good CF prospect.

By WarParty

March 10, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

I will admit to being far more of a NFL fan than MLB, although I do enjoy watching and following the Braves.

It seems to me, though that MLB, and the Braves, could do well to replicate some of the NFL evaluation tools.

Here’s one example: Francoeur has added about 20-25lbs (to me, from the image of him on TV) to his 220lbs of last season. Has he lost any long speed (40 yard sprint) or quick burst (short shuttle) as a result?
(It could be significant on defense)

Another example: Do the Braves have supervised off-season workout programs in the weight room OR do they monitor the weight of the players on a regular basis to be sure they’re in the best possible shape for the coming season? (Hello, Brian McCann?)

Okay, it’s just the other league coming out in me so don’t be hating too much…lol. By the way, DOB?

Great use of the old songs to reference your column talking points.

By OrlandoFan

March 10, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

The comments about the SS/CF post from Champdog (shouldn’t that be Chumpdog?) are funny. It was from left field, for sure, because the poster obviously knows nothing about CF (or shortstop). Looks like the Braves are 3 deep at SS and 4 deep in CF (at least). Bound to be 2 guys out of those 7 who can play every day. And the guy at SS right now seems like a really buddy star. Baseball is a lot about potential — both realized and unrealized potential. And it takes retrospect to understand what happens at any given moment. But at this moment in March, about halfway through camp, I would suggest that the changes may indeed not only help the Braves this year but for the next 10. I’m excited to see Schafer play a lot. I think it could happen by June, too. He seems that have that something. I’m sure there are weaknesses, but the Braves need some swagger. They’ve been too quiet at times. They need that edge. He might add that. Anyway, I would say CF and SS are in great hands. But check me on that in, oh, 2011.

By McFann

March 10, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

He bats McCann fifth because he’s a good hitter.

I will not elaborate further because you were addressing DOB and not myself, so I don’t want to appear pushy here. But, I thought I’d throw that out there, anyway.

Good game. Got a little boring as far as offense goes after the first—until Javy’s homer, yes.

By I'm Ron Burgundy?

March 10, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

Our rotation is going to be filthy!!!

(Except for the days when Mike Hampton is on his period)

Got to love what we’ve seen out of Schafer and Josh Anderson so far in case Kotsay’s back gives out…

Kelly Johnson Yunel Escobar Chipper Jones Mark Teixeira Jeff Francoeur Brian McCann Matt Diaz Mark Kotsay

That’s allstar quality at every position but CF…

If Kotsay can hover around .275 that lineup will be good for about a touchdown per game…

By Capt. Caveman

March 10, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

DOB

How do you do it man???

How do you stay sane on the keyboard when you have to filter through the “extremism” of perception from “fans” who overreact to the slightest events.

You should get an award for patience and virtue. I know I would have blown a gasket or two off by now.

OH and LEW

You still don’t get it do you?? It’s not about being personal it’s understanding that it is not meant personal. It’s called smack talking and fan blogs are where it happens. What is the fun of being on a blog where everybody agrees and lives in perfect harmony - like that old Coca-Cola commercial from the ‘70’s with the hippies. Yeah it’s fun for a day and a half and then you realize that without conflict and dissension this would be a blog with 10 posters on it saying “I luv you mmaaannnn!!”

So in closing I would like to say -

BITE ME LEW !!

Can you handle that??

By Oregon_Braves

March 10, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

Flange - I take back my eariler trade suggestion. It’s painfully obvious that some people can’t appreciate sarcasm. Therefore, here is my honest-to-goodness trade wishlist:

Voldemort, Abe Vigoda, Abraham Lincoln, Ronald McDonald and/or Treebeard the Ent.

Imagine the matchup problems we would give other teams!

By ncscoots

March 10, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

I had rather play (or watch ) the game unfold than to speculate about it.

Wait until you’re my age, your knees are shot, your heater reminds you of your one-time change-up, and your “intangibles” are all that’s left in the tank, LOL. Speculation and evaluation get to be as much fun as you can have!

By Workinlkeadawg

March 10, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

Hey Flange- I think we have to agree to disagree on this one. I’m as sold as anybody for Johnson at 2nd. IMO Bobby’s tinkering ways should be constrained to CF. It’s a win-win situation Diaz gets his 150 games a yr and Kotsay get’s to rest his back from time to time while Anderson or if were lucky Schaeffer get major league time. I just think,esp. with that contract, Diaz should be wanted in the line up as much as Chipper or Frenchie.

By RED and BLACK

March 10, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

Was that Greg Maddox sitting next to Bobby Cox during the game today?

Bobby kept hitting the guy with his elbow.

By McFann

March 10, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

…do they monitor the weight of the players on a regular basis to be sure they’re in the best possible shape for the coming season? (Hello, Brian McCann?)

Um, no…He got married. ZING!!

Seriously, he worked out this off season. Lost about five pounds and “reorganized” the rest of his weight.

Anybody see him being interviewed? Didja didja??

By Jon

March 10, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

Ohh, hahaha, Sorry bout that Pete. I was reading that and was hoping that you were being sarcastic, but you never know. I am not too sure if the Bullpen is going to be a problem either though. I think the Bench might be the weaker part until Infante gets back.

By ncscoots

March 10, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Treebeard the Ent.

Big strike zone. Loads too deep at the plate. No speed on the basepaths.

American League, right?

By OrlandoFan

March 10, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

NCSCOOTS…. I was about ready to put you on the DL

By Lew

March 10, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

Neanderthal-Of course I can handle that. Go screw yourself. Can you handle that? What a schmuck you are and you’re the one who doesn’t get it.

By Lew

March 10, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

The Phillies just announced that pitcher Adam Eaton has a “small” herniated disc and arthritis in his back. He will continue to throw and hopes to be ready by opening day. You’ve got to wonder just how long he’ll last, though. Wonder if he can keep his ERA DOWN to 6 runs a game with this condition.

By ncscoots

March 10, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

OrlandoFan, I’m on the “voluntary retired” list as far as baseball goes, can’t DL me, bubba! Heck, as far as that goes, I only play beer league softball for the beer, anymore. The spirit’s willing, but the flesh is weak. Or something like that, LOL.

By I heart Mazzone

March 10, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

DOB, any chance of the Braves bringing back Leo Mazzone? He did an amazing job with a, shall we say, less than stellar rotation for a few years there towards the end. (Russ Ortiz as your ace anyone???) I like McDowell alright, but the chance to bring back Mazzone seems too good to pass up.

By Maybe so

March 10, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Scoots, that is funny.

I guess I should have said that I realize that even to play or manage a team there has to be a measure of speculating. But my favorite part is not knowing what is going to happen. And, as a player (or coach), doing what I can to make something special happen.

By TJ

March 10, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Jon, I have no problem with having Infante on the team when he’s healthy, because he can play a lot of positions. But he’s no great solution to any weakness on the bench. The guy has a lifetime OBP of under .300. He’ll catch the ball if he’s in the field, but he’s no real help as a bat.

Personally, I see him as another Chris Woodward, but of course I hope I’m wrong.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

Hampton will pitch in a simulate game Wednesday, not the real game. Buddy Carlyle will make the start that night.

Soriano is going to throw off the mound tomorrow, but not in game yet. Cox said no reason to rush him (though it’s under 3 weeks till opening day).

By JC FROM UT

March 10, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

Is there any chance Gorkys was on audition today?

By flange1

March 10, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

WOW, don’t understand some of these posts!

Workinglikeadawg, my first post suggested we trade our backup second baseman Martin Prado to the Colorado Rockies for Brian Fuentes. NEVER said anything about KJ.

Maybe Diaz is the guy, we will see.

Oregon_Braves, sorry guy, I missed your post and I still don’t see it! Did I say something that you didn’t like?

All I was trying to do is be funny in my post to Scoots about Chone Figgins and Carl Crawford.

Let me go back and look for your post again!

By Jon

March 10, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

TJ, all the more reason I was petitioning for the Braves to sing Mark Sweeney for bench help, but alas, they did not.

By flange1

March 10, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

I found it!

Sorry Oregon_Braves, you beet me to the punch on the Chone Figgins/Ryan Freel/Carl Crawford thing…

I sure get the sarcasm!!

Sorry I missed it the first time..

By OrlandoFan

March 10, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

NCSCOOTS, that “spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” is what got the NY governor in trouble, I think.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 10, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

As far as the batting order goes , we will see 3.Chipper 4. Teixeira 5.Francoeur anchoring the lineup the vast majority of the time.

With Kotsay and Anderson likely to both make the team while Borchard will be in AAA Richmond followed closely by Jordan Schafer and Gorkys Hernanadez in the pecking order…I’m betting that Gregor Blanco gets traded and soon.

Depending on the health of Mike Hampton , the rotation is all but set. Then when considering that we are not even halfway through spring training , the pitching looks fantastic.

Mets and Phillies , MEET YOUR DOOM !

By Patrick

March 10, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

DOB- whatever channel you were listening to, let me know. 3 Beatles songs is great for me any day.

By richbrave

March 10, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

workindawg:

Man up for my main ‘08 hitter,DIAZ. He’s gonna’ come into his own this year with Escobar and Johnson.

By Lew

March 10, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

Flange-Dude, you forgot Coco Crisp.

By Pete H.

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

Re: The comment on the old coke commercial with the hippies:

“I’d like to teach the world to sing

And tell it jokes and stuff

Then pull its pants down to its knees

And chase it through the rough

Then knock it out and tie it up

And check its purse for change

Then leave it out at Moose Grin Hall

With cousin Ernie who’s deranged”

(Old National Lampoon house ad)

By Oregon_Braves

March 10, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

Nah, Flange, I was piggy-backing your suggestions that were ad-nauseum on here last year. Funny stuff, that was back then.

Scoots - Treebeard might look like a career DH, but he can get down the bases quick. One step and he’s there. Plus, you never have to worry about running out of bats. Just yank off a branch and he’ll grow it back. Just make sure it is a branch first!

By BT

March 10, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

Very confusing day in blogdom. Some people are giving what they know will be the 25 man roster (I guess Frank Wren can take the rest of ST off) and others are saying the Braves are in a real mess. We are in bad shape at Short, 2nd base, and cf. I had no idea. Funny about 75% of the other teams would love to have K Johnson and Escobar. Kotsay looks fine as well, backups aren’t bad. I remain confused.

By Chris from the Rock

March 10, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

Hey Oregon_Braves, I hear Treebeard the Ent has a wicked slider.

By Jon

March 10, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

Correction, I wasn’t petitioning the Braves to sing Sweeney, but sign instead. haha.

By Pete H.

March 10, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

I’m sure you all saw the Gammons comment today but in case, here it is:

1. The Braves: If Hampton is all right, the Braves should be in the middle of a tremendous race with the Phillies and Mets. Not only are Chipper Jones and Mark Teixeira devastating in the middle of the order, but the monstrous Jeff Francoeur, Brian McCann, Kelly Johnson and Yunel Escobar are all just entering their prime.

By Random

March 10, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

DOB—

A question for you (and anyone else who cares and/or might have an opinion):

To what extent (if any) do you think that Brayan Pena’s and Yunel Escobar’s Cuban connection will enhance Pena’s chances of making the Braves’ Major League roster? I would think it would be a big, if intangible, plus for him, to supplement his positional versatility.

Unless Javy goes on an offensive tear (and we may have seen the start of one this afternoon), I’d put my money on Pena. (Especially if the Braves trade or waive Thorman.)

If Pena is waived or traded, how much of an impact would you expect that to have on Escobar’s attitude and/or performance?

Thanks in advance for your time and attention.

By Lew

March 10, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

JC from UT-That thought crossed my mind, too. From what we’ve seen of Anderson and Schaefer, I can’t see needing Gorkys anytime soon.

By Ed Glennon

March 10, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

Hope Javi makes the roster. Anybody think we might trade Yates? Hey DOB Walk Like a Man is my kind of song.

By BT

March 10, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Give them heck buddy, I am all for you! My wife and I enjoyed your web site by the way.

By Lew

March 10, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

BT-Glad you enjoyed it.

IppississM-In case you didn’t see my response on the last blog, I don’t mind if you link to my site.

By Niels Boor

March 10, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

Holy cats, [McFann](http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/braves/entries/2008/03/10/coxwecan_work.html#comment-322600030—

I’ve been laboring under the assumption all this time that you had a crush on the Heap only because you had never actually seen his face — the Quasimodo syndrome, you might say.

Did you really see the interview, or did you just hear it somehow over the internet or radio?

By Workinlkeadawg

March 10, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

All this citter chatter bout Lilli-Prado is adnauseum. Braves have Infante, so what if He’s on the DL right now. My bet is or should I say wish is that Anderson makes the A list and it won’t be the end of the world if somebody goes down on the infield. Reason, don’t need a backup at first. Why? That’s Diaz most natural position. No kidding. So Braves in reality have 4 infield backups at least. Infante, Lillibridge,Prado and Diaz. No need to carry Thornton, I know we won’t re-sign Tex , but it won’t kill Thornton to play everyday in Richmond or wherever. He wasn’t the crown jewel of PH’s last yr. Make sure our ever so deep outfield, doesn’t cost us to lose Schaeffer or Anderson. Brandon’s expendable for the right or left arm. Back to the Post seaon with Smolt, Glavine on the elder side and Hudson, Jurrgens on the jr side if you will. There have been less radical ideas that have led to early season finales.

By Niels Boor

March 10, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

ChampDawg: “Andruw needed to go but I was sorry to see Renteria go as well. Sounds like CF and SS are a bit of a mess right now. Another glorious job of trades by the Braves brass….. NOT!”

Do yourself a favor, ChampDawg, — doff your cloak of apparent ignorance and tell us exactly why not.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

After talking to a couple of people today, I think there’s something to the Juan Rivera thing. I believe the Braves do have interest, just not sure if there’s a match….

Randon, I don’t believe Pena’s presence will have anything to do with Escobar’s performance, not at all. And the Braves sure aren’t going to let that effect their decision whether to keep Pena. No way.

They’re good friends, but Escobar’s not going to let something like that effect his play. Just look how well he played last year when Pena was down at Richmond.

By Capt. Caveman

March 10, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

Pete H

I forgot about that. I have a couple of more that are not blog-friendly to post but they are hilarious.

Glad to see somebody else around here has a sense of humor and doesn’t take all this so seriously.

It’s just so lew-dicrous when somebody gets all lew-vid over a comment and then has an emotional inter-lew-de about it. It’s like their brain is as cold as an ig-lew in the artic.

NowwhatameanVerne.

Yeah. Abso-lew-tely

By Random

March 10, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

Gil in Mechanicsville—

I think you meant to say that a hit is a hit, no matter who you get it off of by.

Overlord—

I think the concerns with Prado’s range are chiefly centered on his ability to make the plays in the hole, not up the middle. (But that was a beautiful, balletic pivot, wasn’t it?)

PS: somebody does have your keys, don’t they? Seriously.

By 18 Wheels of Love

March 10, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

Sure DOB covered this already somewheres, but The Drive By Truckers are gonna be on Conan TH night! Peterbilt Peterbilt!

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

Remember RHP Sergio Valenzuela, the guy the Braves were surprised to lose to Cincy in th Rule 5 draft? No? That’s OK, nobody remembers him except us who were sitting there scratching our heads when they chose him (dude’s just not that good and doesn’t project to be particularly good, either).

Anyway, Cincy already returned him to the Braves today, for half the $50,000 claiming price. And the Braves immediately traded him to to a Mexican League team, Monclova, for “future considerations.”

I’m guessing future considerations, in this case, is probably something along the lines of, “Hey, in the future, if you ever have a decent player we might be interested in, like Julio Franco years ago, could you promise to call us?”

By Daveinzona

March 10, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this

Great point by RANDOM @5:32, regarding Pena and Escobar.I too look forward to your thoughts,DOB.

By Epinephrine

March 10, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

BT, couldn’t agree more.

Personally, I think both Yunel and KJ will have big years. First, KJ had been injured during the entire 2006 season. Second, he had to learn an entirely new position in the 06 offseason. The result? He has a fantastic year, except at the end when he was obviously fatigued. Frankly, I think you would be insane not to expect an improvement from a guy that has always been able to rake.

As for Escobar-I mean just look at the guy. My bet is he also feels he has something to prove. I expect big things from him.

And Kotsay? He looks great so far to me. No sign of the back injury, and he has hit well thus far (very solid contact throughout the month). Are there actually people out there who believe Kotsay will put up worse numbers than Andruw Jones last year? Even if Kots doesn’t perform up to expectations, he will still not be a black hole hitting clean up. Instead, worst case, he’d be a guy hitting around .250-60 batting eighth. Somewhere Chipper Jones just gave an Amen, brother. But my bet is we have a .280-90 hitter in the 8th spot looking for a nice contract next year. Without question that is a huge upgrade.

And the bench/left field? Yes, Willie Harris had a torrid start. But his BA in July, August and September? .241, .213, and .128. Anyone actually think we will get worse production that that? Matt Diaz having half his year last year solves that problem.

Oh yeah-Ryan Langerhans and Scott Thorman are not in our opening day lineup. Tex and Diaz are. Craig Wilson, Chris Woodward, and Corky Miller will not be on our bench. Infante, Anderson, and Javy Lopez should be. Mark Redman, Kyle Davies, and Lance Cormier are not in our starting rotation plans. Glavine, Hampton, and Jair will be.

The fact we finished third last year with so many holes is really amazing in retrospect.

By Lew

March 10, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

Hey-The Troglodyte is back with yet another attemmpt to convince us he has a 7th grade education and one hell of a case of arrested development. You can give up now. We believe you.

By ncscoots

March 10, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

Oh the humanity! Confusion and chaos amidst the bloggers! Sarcasm, irony, and the blog-omnipresent dry wit fall on deaf ears through the printed word, sometimes, eh?

Usually, you can tell, if you’ve read a few posts by the blogger in question, but not always, and the occasional hint goes a long way to preventing misunderstanding (my personal favorite is the yelling of “SARCASM ALERT”, as one poster was wont to do). Just because TennPaul eschews the use of emoticons and the like doesn’t mean others must do likewise, LOL.

To recap: no one thinks CF and SS are a “mess”; no one advocated trading KJ. Did I miss any? OK. Sense of humor tuneups are on special this week, let’s get ‘em tweaked in time for the regular season!

By Roman Gal

March 10, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

Oh My Stars!!! Mike Hampton is HURT again! He left the game in the second inning. Looks like he has a mild strain to his right groin. We should just CUT him now…of course, then he might bleed to death.

Lew Did you send my Wurlitzer yet? I mean…I don’t want to seem pushy or anything. (Sorry McFann…just had to)

Sorry…I just thought I should get in on all the fun today!!

By Chopdawg

March 10, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

Sergio! We’ll miss you.

DOB, thanx for these blogs.

By William

March 10, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

Just got back from clubhouse. I’m telling you, Braves Nation is gonna love this young guy Jurrjens. Great attitude, smart, funny … oh, and hell of a pitcher.

I’m really liking the looks of our rotation. How can you not? I really can see 15+ wins from Smoltz, Huddy, and Jurrjens……

By TennesseePaul

March 10, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

Just because TennPaul eschews the use of emoticons and the like doesn’t mean others must do likewise

Scoots: It’s for medical reasons. The doctor said I’d live a more emotionally enjoyable life if I quit abbreviating and/or typing closing parenthesis coupled with other conjunctive punctuations. I think he was on to something. I’ve been LMAO :)

(I feel a head cold coming on.)

By JC FROM UT

March 10, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

What would the Braves have to give up for Juan Rivera?

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

Anders, I think any of these 2 teams can win more than 80 games in a season. Every single guy i mentioned there is ready for the majors and 90% of them are ready to be a starter in more than half of the teams in the league in their respective positions.

Team # 1 SS Lillibridge 2B Johnson CF Kotsay 1B Tex C Lopez/Peña LF Diaz 3B Prado RF Blanco

SP Smoltz+Jurrjens+Hampton+JoJo+

RP Gonzo+Moylan+Ring+Stockman+DeSalvo

Team #2 CF Anderson/Schafer SS Escobar 3B Chipper RF Francouer C McCann/Miller LF Jones 2B Infante 1B Flowers/Thorman

SP Hudson+Glavine+James+Carlyle

RP Soriano+Acosta+Yates+Ohman+Boyer

And give me the keys to my car.

By Lew

March 10, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

Roman Gal-I posted earlier-all promised items go out tomorrow.

By Capt. Caveman

March 10, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

Troglodyte

Is a term sometimes used in internet slang to indentify a “local user” who has become annoying or irritating. As is common the terms are joined in a single word - such as Luser - or in this case the more appropriate spelling of Lew-ser.

Which would then apply to a new spelling of:

Yep you guessed it -

TROG-LEW-DYTE !!!!

So I guess it takes one to know one.

Thanks go to Wikipedia for there assistance in research on this item.

Bwahh-ha-ha-hahaha!!!

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

Anders, I think any of these 2 teams can win more than 80 games in a season. Every single guy i mentioned there is ready for the majors and 90% of them are ready to be a starter in more than half of the teams in the league in their respective positions.

Team #1

SS Lillibridge

2B Johnson

CF Kotsay

1B Tex

C Lopez/Peña

LF Diaz

3B Prado

RF Blanco

SP Smoltz+Jurrjens+Hampton+JoJo+

RP Gonzo+Moylan+Ring+Stockman+DeSalvo

Team #2

CF Anderson/Schafer

SS Escobar

3B Chipper

RF Francouer

C McCann/Miller

LF Jones

2B Infante

1B Flowers/Thorman

SP Hudson+Glavine+James+Carlyle

RP Soriano+Acosta+Yates+Ohman+Boyer

And give me the keys to my car.

By Niels Boor

March 10, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

Workinlkeadawg—

Your and idiot.

“Thornton” is out of minor league options, and has been since before last year.

“Reason, don’t need a backup at first. Why? That’s Diaz most natural position. No kidding.”

Sure. That’s why it’s “natural” that he’s only played 2 games at 1B in his entire major league career. Especially early last year when he “naturally” played 0 games at 1B, when the Braves had no need at all for any 1B aside from “Thornton”.

citter chatter, adnauseum, “doesn’t cost us to lose”, “Brandon’s expendable for the right or left arm”, “Post seaon with Smolt”, Jurrgens, “There have been less radical ideas that have led to early season finales” — WTF?!?

Y.A.I.

PS: look up “paragraph break” and utilize that new-found knowledge.

By Overlord

March 10, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this

Anders, I think any of these 2 teams can win more than 80 games in a season. Every single guy i mentioned there is ready for the majors and 90% of them are ready to be a starter in more than half of the teams in the league in their respective positions.

Team #1

SS Lillibridge

2B Johnson

CF Kotsay

1B Tex

C Lopez/Peña

LF Diaz

3B Prado

RF Blanco

SP Smoltz+Jurrjens+Hampton+JoJo+

RP Gonzo+Moylan+Ring+Stockman+DeSalvo

Team #2

CF Anderson/Schafer

SS Escobar

3B Chipper

RF Francouer

C McCann/Miller

LF Jones

2B Infante

1B Flowers/Thorman

SP Hudson+Glavine+James+Carlyle

RP Soriano+Acosta+Yates+Ohman+Boyer

And give me the keys to my car.

By TennesseePaul

March 10, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this

the Braves immediately traded him to to a Mexican League team, Monclova, for “future considerations.”

This could be for any future vacations that Wren might want to take in the Baja or Gulf area of Mexico. Or maybe a couple of Urban Sombrero’s.

By Lew

March 10, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

Caveidiot-Are you receiving the psychiatric care you so obviously need? You really should speak to your Doctor. I bet there’s medication that could make you almost normal-or at least to help you lead a productive life.

By Workinlkeadawg

March 10, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

C’mon dudes I cant believe I got away with my 5:57 w/o some emotional or Hate response. Is this the same blog I’ve been reading? Lew- I guess they save it all up for you. Seriously, any chance of Anderson AND Schafer making the cut? I’ll answer my own question. No SChafer won’t make the final cut because the Braves will keep one of the following non-contrib guys. 1)Thorman 2)B. Jones 3)Flowers. Out of the 3 Flowers makes the most sense providing Thorman is in Richmond.

By JC FROM UT

March 10, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this

Has anyone heard how good or bad Morgan Ensberg is playing in Yankees camp? He is someone I thought the Braves should invite to camp. He can play both corner positions and is not too far removed from having decent numbers. Any thoughts?

By Workinlkeadawg

March 10, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

Only way Schaffer and Flowers see much playing time in Atlanta this yr is 1) Braves realize Thormans not the future 1B. 2) Braves fall out of love with B. Jones

By Wayne in Utah

March 10, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

Workin’ in IKEA like a Dog

OK, just so you will feel appreciated for your idiocy.

“Your and idiot!”

Feel better now?

BTW, this will be the opening day bench, my guess: Anderson, Prado, Thorman, Lopez, and Thorman. That is, if none of these guys are traded or released (possible if we deal for a backup INF-OF type that can play all corners).

:-)

By Wayne in Utah

March 10, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

Would love to see a report on some of our minor league guys: Holt, Hicks, Pope, Campbell, etc….

By Capt. Caveman

March 10, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

LEW

I got you on my Speed-blog now. But your not in my FIVE yet.

I have check into medications and found some interesting trangui-lew-sers:

Lew-nestra Lew-xotan Estazo-Lew Lew-razepam Triazo-Lew Lew-brium Lew-gactil Lew-xitane Va-Lew-rian Zuc-Lew-pentixol (I really like the sound of that one)

Of course there is always a good Quaa-Lew-de

Now these are not to be confused with a different medication known as :

Lew-agra - guaranteed that you CAN”T get it up for over 4 hours.

Wheww. I love Wikipedia.

Anybody keeping score. I think the mercy rule might be in effect.

By Roman Gal

March 10, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

Lew, I was just kidding. I saw it!

By Lew

March 10, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

WorkDawg-Dude, I think it’s more that they would rather Schaefer have another year in the minors playing everyday rather than any love for Brandon Jones. The guy has only played as high as low A ball and they want him playing every day-which he wouldn’t staying with the Braves.

I really like what I saw from Anderson in Orlando though, and apparently the braves do too. I think he may surprise many people with how good he can be.

By Workinlkeadawg

March 10, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this

Boor..Gotcha! since when did I care about your fluent criticizm? My point is the Braves haven’t been able to sustain a late season winning streak in a couple of yrs (I know your looking at your stats book)Heck even a start of the yr streak would be nice, but the starters gotta go more than 5 innings at the most. Which is why the danged bullpen gets worn out before the All-star break every yr. I think solidity out of your starting 4 isn’t asking too much. If you want to see the Braves play in Oct. I know it isn’t.

By Wayne in Utah

March 10, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this

Unless we can clone Thorman, my 7:40pm post doesn’t make sense. (and why would we want to clone ST?)

I meant to add Lillibridge to the mix.

By Lew

March 10, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

Cavedroppings-Keeping score? For a lightweight like you? Not likely. Good thing you’re not pugilistically inclined. With a right hook like yours, all you’d manage to do is fall on your a$$.

By McFann

March 10, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

What do ya mean, Niels? “Never seen his face”? I’ve been watchin’ him for over two years. I saw the interview on SportsSouth. Missed a couple words here and there, but really liked what I did hear!

Either way, why have a crush on someone you’ve never seen? Or do you mean there’s something wrong with his face?

; )

By chrisklob

March 10, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

*BTW, this will be the opening day bench, my guess: Anderson, Prado, Thorman, Lopez, and Thorman. *

Wow Wayne, you like Thorman so much you want to give im TWO roster spots? :-)

By Greg in TN

March 10, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

Evening ladies and gents,

Another impressive start today by Jair Jurrjens against the Red Birds going four and giving up a couple hits. He’s pitching much better than a #4 or a #5 right now and it will be a treat for this denizen to watch him pitch. Missed taping the broadcast (again) and missed replay number one (it’s in the top of the fourth now on SportSouth for those denizens wanting to catch it again). They’re planning on running the game again at 11PM eastern as well.

Nice to hear that Hampton will be back pitching a sim game on Wednesday and I think it’s a smart move to make sure he gets some work in without the dangers of having to field his position. Equally nice to hear that Moylan had no elbow discomfort after his inning of work yesterday.

Seeing Knucksy pitch to Bobby Dews would have been very sweet to this denizen for certain.

Braveheart, thanks for posting the YouTube link to Ernie Johnson’s feature. Brought back great memories and I got a kick out of seeing a younger Skip Carey. It’s easy to forget that Darrell Chaney spent some time in the broadcast booth with Skip, Pete and Ol Earn.

By Wayne in Utah

March 10, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this

McFann You know, maybe you should develop a backup plan for your Braves dream player. Not that I think Baby Huey is going anywhere, but it is always good to have a contingency plan.

My proposal: Get hooked on Brent Lillibridge as a backup. He is sure baby faced!

:-)

By Timothy J Bradley

March 10, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

The sun god smiled on us today in Viera (Melbourne) Florida, as I got in my second ST game in as many days. WHOA, there….was this “back to the future” with Willie Harris, Pete Orr, and Ryan Langerhans in the lineup (only Harris started and went 0-4, Ryan 1 for 1 (a single), Pete Orr (zip for 1).

A perfect 70 degree day - too hot for me to be wearing my buttoned Braves shirt over a light pullover, unless I migrated as I did to below the canopy, but the upper reaches wwhere the wind blew and the shade was cooling…

…thanks to all whose wait for the rites of spring is eternal, who blog, and to our dear leader the MIB. …what’s happening with the T-Shirts, you’ve got a national following, your the bomb, the man.

Go Braves! (I like this team, and I’ve liked a lot of them since 1954, for I am an old dude, who simply loves and lives for this team).

I get reminded of the age and the season when Aaron Boone comes to bat. I saw his granddad (Ray Boone)(for Chrissakes!) play at the tail end of his career in Sportsmans Park in St. Louis in 1959 or 1960.

Coincidental that it was the Tigers playing today, and Ray Boone put up some numbers for a few years. Ain’t that what’s it all about.

Over and out….

By McFann

March 10, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

Wayne—

First of all, how have you been? Haven’t heard from you in a while. : (

Backup plan? Hmm………might not be a bad idea. I might help soften the very hard blow if Baby Huey left the Braves. My trouble is that I don’t like to think about that. I’ll give some thought—Lillibridge is a pretty good player from what I know…I like Anderson, too…

OK, that’s enough thought.

: )

By Timothy J Bradley

March 10, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this

Javy was a solid player, and I admit I am a sentimentalist to a point. I won’t go Julio Franco, and I have seen too many players come to the Braves (Milw and Atla long after they could produce - eg, Enos Slaughter, Billy Martin (yes, Yankee Billy), Bobby Avila, Ray Boone, just to name a few)… but I like Javy, he was a gamer in his day, and that day is not done. Javy has some good baseball left, and something to prove (not sure what)and he comes cheap.

I do understand that 2 hits (hr’s at that) in a passel of at-bats are not encouraging, but he is trying too hard - a good sign. He’s not the future, but neither was Sid Bream and a host of others who were there when they were needed. This is baseball intuition, but Javy will be celebrated. I host the first to him, hail Javy!!!

Go Braves. Be blessed.

By FJR

March 10, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

workinlikeadawg, for the 50th time, Thorman is out of options. He will either be traded for a non-prospect minor leaguer or he’ll make the team. I am not sure you understand the option system, but once a player is out of options he cannot be sent to the minor leagues without passing through waivers first. Thorman would not pass through waivers.

By Teddy Jack Eddy

March 10, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

I’m seeing Schafer for the first time on Sports South.Last year Escobar seemed confident almost to the point of being cocky.Schafer seems arrogant almost to the point of being prissy.I like confident,arrogant I can do without.

By old fart

March 10, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

Stick to baseball you dumbass. All that music crap makes us want to puke.

By TJ

March 10, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

Teddy, what did you see on tv that gave you that impression of Schafer? Granted, I was working (or pretending to) while watching the game, so maybe I missed some prancing or something, but all I saw was a young guy play competent LF for the first time in his life, and get on base 3 times in 4 plate appearances out of the leadoff spot.

By Geezer

March 10, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

What dumass decided to put a b after the m before a* ? makes it look like you’re talkin about a stupid fish,I could spit or somethin.

By Timothy J Bradley

March 10, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

I’ve never posted 3x in on this blog, but “intangibles” is right on. Many of the techical bloggers, and I mean this as no criticism, look for the tangible - give Diaz more at-bats, banish P Orr, ‘shoot’ Woodward on sight (moves that are techically called for) - but the intangibles we don’t see, e.g. Wickman’s clubhouse downer.

Julio had it, and all of us can name a host of others whose clubhouse contributions for good or ill made a difference.

DOB might well be advised to look into those years when the Braves did so well in the season, and had no Tug McGraw or “We are Family” to catapult us just a hair farther into the off-season. Those teams - and you know the years - didn’t go to Valhalla, they went to Oblivion, to the River Stix, and died inglorious deaths!!

Is intangibles a psychologist, or what, inquiring minds want to know?

By McFann

March 10, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

After Diaz went 3-for-3 during Sunday’s loss to the Cardinals… Bowman

Loss? LOSS?! Is he saying that we really lost that game? Dude, that scoreboard must have been pretty confused! Sheesh…

By Teddy Jack Eddy

March 10, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

Prancing ? that’s your word,also I didn’t post an opinion on his ability.The word arrogant suggest an ‘air’ and prissy ain’t real complicated either.

By bravesfan54

March 10, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

Timothy Bradley is bravesfan54 and having said that, I welcome back and hope to be welcomed into this this blog this season. I live for this team, this sport…only kidding, I have some other life, some kids, and, worse, I listened to Webb Pierce and Johnny Horton and Little Richard long before Dylan’s ‘doorknob broke’.

Be blessed.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 10, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

Juan Rivera wouldn’t fit the Braves. The outfield is already crowded.

Unless then Braves were to arrange a three team trade with the third party in need of an outfielder I don’t see how Atlanta could have any interest in Rivera.

By StingerSplash

March 10, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

Why can’t future considerations from a Mexican League mean a really good bottle of tokillya and Salma Hayek’s phone number? Just astin’.

By Wayne in Utah

March 10, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

McFann Doing pretty well. Actually, I’ve been monitoring the blog about every other night, but nothing really to comment on. Just waiting for the chips to fall on roster decisions, etc.

How is school? Wish my 15 year old would get as serious about his education as he is about playing the guitar.

By Choppinmama

March 10, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

DOB: I’ll trot out the thank-you note again tomorrow nite for UKWho for sure.

Distaff Denizen Game Report: The speed of the game was a lot better today than the past 3 glacially-paced games. Not so bad sitting in the stands with some nice cloud cover and a gentle breeze. Ahhhhhh - the perfect spring training day, complete with the MetLife blimp overhead.

Jurrjens did look so poised and confident on the mound and I also though Royce Ring (a not-to-be- confused-with-Mark-Kotsay-look-alike)did a fine job too. After Jair was out of the game, I started to worry about our slim lead and the prospect of a Drese/Ring/DeSalvo/Campillo combo to finish the game, but those who? arms did the job. An especially fine 9th from Campillo to close it out.

Javy helped his cause on the offensive side (in truth, nothing is offensive about #8), but his homer didn’t mean anything to the lady sitting 2 seats down from me on the front row who read a book the entire game - or until she finished it in the bottom of the 8th. What a waste of an excellent seat.

And it is really good to see Niekro, Dews and Chris Chambliss in uniform. Kinda like a Braves Stargate journey into the past.

OK, 2 more games to go for this trip - I’m really looking forward to seeing Glav take the mound tomorrow nite.

I’m planning to set my alarm for about 2:20 am to see the space launch - wouldn’t do it if I was going to a day game! Enjoy sleeping in DOB. See you at the park manana. (no tilde available) ;-)

By McFann

March 10, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Hey, sorry, Kev! I somehow missed your 1:36 post the afternoon! Oh yeah! I was all joy!

By Workinlkeadawg

March 10, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

LEW- I appreciate as I know you do the abbreviated screen name. I must have been listening to an oldies station when I signed up. I’m not that wet behind the bloggers, it’s just that I don’t seem to be able to use my old screen name which BTW is Bravomann. With all attempts at idiopathy (apparently a success) aside, I like all true Braves guys hope Smoltz, Glavine, Huddy, etc. have the season of their lives. Were not in D.C. yet?

By McFann

March 10, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

Glad to read you’re doin’ well, Wayne.

School’s going good. Getting into some tough algebra, but I like math—history…not so much. I’m taking Latin this year, and I like that. Grammar’s good, too.

Your son plays the guitar, eh? My brother, sister, and I play the piano—have been for five years—and we like it a lot…but there’s nuthin like some good ol’ Braves baseball!!

By McFann

March 10, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

Coppinmama—

Maybe you’ll get on TV with your sign!

By N8

March 10, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah! Well Herm Edwards is frickin moron who couldn’t hold Dick Vermeil’s jocks str…….oh sh!t….I’m NOT on the KC Star message boards am I?

Sorry. Never mind.

By Braveheart

March 10, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

Wren is hoping the future Mexican consideration is a telephone call from Erik Estrada.

Kind of weird I know.

But Wren was a big Chips guys back when.

By Squince

March 10, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

Hey everyone.  Long time reader, first time writer.  Your jibber jabber gets me through the work day.  If I were to ever post at work, they’d block me out of even reading, and they I’d actually have to work all day.

Anyway - On Jurrjens. Anyone know how many innings he pitched last year? Assuming he wins the 5th spot, do you think there will be an innings limit on him?

By Choppinmama

March 10, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this

McFann: I doubt it about the sign. It is such an ajc “inside” message. But - if anyone sees it, let me know. I’ll check in after the game.

Hey, DOB - help me out with Chipper’s attention at bp. He never looks into the stands, and always enters the dugout with his head down. Although - the 1st day I was there, I hollered “Hey U Know Who” and he did look up, smile and wave.

Anyway, I’m just doing it to publicly thank him for sitting in with us for a couple of nights.

By FJR

March 10, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

greatest recorded live harmony singing of all time? My money goes to Seven Bridges Road from Eagles Live.

Knocks me out every time I hear it. Most bands can’t hit those kinds of harmonies with infinity takes in the studio. These guy nail it perfectly every time live.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

Choppinmama, I’m tempted to get up to see that launch, too, though I don’t know how the visibility will be. Cloudy tonight, after being crystal clear the past few nights. Just rode back from Dark Star area on the bike. What a beautiful night down here, about 65 degrees. All the nightly 9 p.m. fireworks were going off as I rode through the heart of Dark Star coming back from House of Blues. Pretty trippy….

N8, just got back from dinner with my brother, a Kansas City resident and huge Chiefs fan. He’s in Orlando on business.

By Amber

March 10, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

Choppinmama - our thanks go right along with you!

So I saw a lot of discourse between Coach and DOB on the old blog about the various 3B backups we’ve had for Chipper… did I miss where anything was said about this year’s backup guy? This is like going into the season without a solid #2 starter. Infante wasn’t the initial plan, right? Is anyone else worrying about this?

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Workinikeadawg: Flowers hasn’t played above LOW-A. He’s had a total of 518 at-bats of pro ball, at the rookie and low-A levels. What are you talking about, playing time at 1B this year on the big league club? Please. Not happening.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Workinikeadawg: Flowers hasn’t played above LOW-A. He’s had a total of 518 at-bats of pro ball, at the rookie and low-A levels. What are you talking about, playing time at 1B this year on the big league club? Please. Not happening.

By FJR

March 10, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

greatest recorded live harmony of all time? My money has to go with Seven Bridges Road from Eagles Live. Many bands couldn’t hit those harmonies with infiity takes in the studio, these guys hit it perfectly every time live.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

Squince, that (9:48) is a very good question, or good point. He pitched a career-high total of 143-1/3 innings last year and developed a sore shoulder late in the season. Previous Previous year 140-1/3. Year before that, 142-2/3 in 2005.

I think they will have to be careful not to overwork him so he can get through the season. Might be a good guy to have in the No. 5 spot so they can skip his turn a few times.

I know I said that recently about Hampton, but after thinking about it more, and being reminded by this last injury of just how precarious Hampton’s health is, it makes even more sense to do it it Jurrjens, to have him in the No. 5 spot.

By that I mean, you have to assume Hampton is going to go on the DL or at least miss plenty of starts because of various nagging injuries. So it doesn’t matter what spot he’s at in rotation.

By Niels Boor

March 10, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

Workinlkeadawg*—

Don’t be at all surprised if neither “SChafer” nor “1)Thorman” nor “2)B. Jones” nor “3)Flowers” “make the final cut”.

We won’t be the least bit surprised when you turn out to be flat-axe wrong.

Thorman’s got the best shot (and I hope he makes it), but seems likely to be traded. Schafer and Flowers need more “seasoning”, and BJones appears caught in the OF numbers/apparent lack of defensive versatility game.

By Workinlkeadawg

March 10, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this

To Utah..yes I do feel better. I’ve got the Thorman sit. under control,Something you obviously don’t. Heck what do I know? Maybe there are 2 Thormans on ATL’s team. One more thing , stay in Utah, we don’t much care (or want) for mult. wives in Ga.

By FJR

March 10, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

DOB,

With as much as you mention dead confederate, I was wondering if you were aware of their previous work as the redbelly band (and also redbelly)?

Petition to the queen is available on itunes (I know, I know, not your thing) and is a freaking great disc.

Hardy and the boys have been disassociating from the name for a while now, so its hard to get them to sale you one of the old cds at a live show. The disassociation has more to do with wanting to seem like a new band, not a band that’s already put out two albums.

Many of the songs off petition to the queen are staples of their live performances, including the rat and south.

By N8

March 10, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

DOB

“N8, just got back from dinner with my brother, a Kansas City resident and huge Chiefs fan. He’s in Orlando on business.”

Well, give him my condolences. LOL!

I tell you, it’s “tense” times on the old Chiefs message boards right now. SO MANY PEOPLE want Herm Edwards run out of town. I’m a little more patient with most and the “youth movement” going on with that team.

Then again, I’m not a season ticket holder. I have much more issue with Carl Peterson still being in control of that team, going into year 19 of his “five year plan”.

Not a single other GM in sports would last as long as he has without a playoff victory (none in KC since a guy named Montana was QB in 1993).

He continues to hire his “buddies” (Vermeil and Edwards) as HC and this is the kicker….. The Hunt family allowed him to “evaluate” himself after this past season. To which he said, I failed but didn’t do that bad of a job. WTF?!?

Imagine if Andruw was allowed to “evaluate” his performance last year, and then negotiate with HIMSELF on a new contract. That’s about how asinine, that process is. Yikes.

Anyhow, I’m sure you’ve heard it all from your brother. I saw last week that you said your brother still lives there, and I was gonna ask you if he was a Chiefs fan, but I just assumed he was. That city LOVES that team. But if the Chiefs aren’t careful, Dayton Moore is gonna turn the Royals into winners and that city will begin to ignore the Chiefs like they did in the 80’s (pre-Marty and Derrick Thomas), when they were about as pathetic as the Braves were.

Alright. Six weeks until the draft, but less than three weeks to REAL baseball. I’m done ranting now.

Many thanks for your time. LOL!

One last thing actually. Ask your brother what his “thoughts” are on Herm Edwards. I don’t mind the guy, myself. But if I were to believe the hatred spewed on the Chiefs boards, I have to believe that I’m in the minority.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

I guess Coach missed the part about Rivera working at 1B, which was the whole point of the original post — Rivera as a possible backup 1B/ OF.

He was hurt last year and barely played. But in 2006, Rivera hit .310 with 23 homers and 85 RBI, including .351 with a .970 OPS in 134 ABs vs. lefties.

He hit .349 with a .954 OPS in 109 ABs with runners in scoring position.

And he hit .335 with a .919 OPS after the All-Star break.

Yeah, I think Braves could use a little of that if they don’t have to give up one of their key pitchers to get it.

By TJ

March 10, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

Nope. prissy ain’t complicated. I’m just trying to understand how it applies to Jordan Schafer.

By N8

March 10, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

FJR

“greatest recorded live harmony of all time? My money has to go with Seven Bridges Road from Eagles Live. Many bands couldn’t hit those harmonies with infiity takes in the studio, these guys hit it perfectly every time live.”

Two things.

First, I can’t argue (on the surface) with your choice. That is a cool tune, that they do VERY well. A little too “country” for me, but cool, none the less.

Second, I’m not sure you can trust ANY “live” recording to actually be live. NO MATTER WHO the artist is. That being said, I saw the Eagles on the Hell Freezes Over tour (the first of what seems like 15 “fare-well” tours - but the ONLY one that Don Felder participated in), and while not one of my favorite bands, they were FANTASTIC. Keep in mind, when I paid over $100.00 per ticket (which was a LOT in 1995 for a concert), I was under the assumption that it was a “once in a lifetime” reunion. Hook, line and sinker I guess, huh?

I’ve been in many bands that have done Eagles tunes, and seen many more do them and do them well. But what separates those guys from other bands trying to emulate their sound, is those damn “ooohs and aaahs” in their backing vocals. For whatever reason, those 5 guys were MEANT to sing together, whether you like them or not.

So I can testify that live, they sound fine, but I’m not sure I believe that there is a live album out there that hasn’t been “doctored” up a little bit. Too many variable to overcome to make a good sounding live album (feedback, inconsistent snare hits, guitar strings breaking, occasional sour note, etc….), IMO.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

FJR, wasn’t aware of their previous incarnations. But that lead singer is damn good, as is the entire band. LOVE that EP. Looking forward to a full-length CD from that band.

By Squince

March 10, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB. Last thing the Braves need is to overuse Jurrgens. Too many times over the past few years we’ve seen young pitchers get overused. I hate to acknowledge the yankees and red sox for doing anything right, but it seems they have a good approach with young pitchers, as opposed to, say the cubs and giants. sure, they see fluke injuries, but not much in terms of arm trouble. I hope to see a little from Jurrjens and JoJo, as well as Chuck. Give them all a chance to succeed, hopefully ride their successes for a few starts, but not pitch any of them every 5 days for the whole season. Hopefully, by using them all throughout the year, they will be able to help us in october. Just because Jurrjens is fantastic in the first 2 weeks of the spring, I hope we’re cautious.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

Stinger, I’m with you on the Salma Hayek. Aye dios mios!

By FJR

March 10, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

N8, recording technology being what it was at the time, the impressive part of that song couldn’t have been changed though. Due to sound bleed, you couldn’t have removed a slightly off harmony vocal part, because it would bleed in though the other microphones anyway, and then adding a “corrected” vocal line on top of that would sound terrible.

Basically you could add in an overdub, but since its readily apparent that the Eagles had all those harmony lines in tehre during the live concerts and it doesn’t sound like there are any additional lines to “beef up” the sound, that doesn’t affect the performance. The other thing you could do to live performances is to splice in different performances of the same song to “edit out” a bad part. However, you could only really do that if you were playing the same venue, as the room ambience would be notably different from part to part. The Eagles only played one show at the venue this disc was taken from. Finally, there are a number of missteps on the live album, which if they were fixing things, would have been much easier to fix than to add in a harmony.

There are plenty of albums that I completely trust are totally live, because nobody is going to care if there is a guitar string broken or if the drummer gets slightly off on a snare hit.

The allmans for instance did “doctor” some of their live stuff, but it was only mixing in different parts of the same song that were done in multiple nights. There wasn’t any overdubbing. Because thecnology being as it was at the time, there would have been tell-tale traces. Same thing goes with the eagles from that period.

By FJR

March 10, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

speaking of saving pitchers’ arms. the reds have a couple of really promising young guys in harang (well maybe harang is more than promising, he’s a legit cy young candidate right now) and homer bailey. I fully expect dusty baker to blow their arms off this season, with harang pitching around 240 innings and bailey over 220. The reds will be surprisingly good, but long term he’ll kill them and then leave to “save” another team.

I remember seeing prior have his pitch count at 130 and get sent back out for the 8th in a 5 run game. I was just like “does he even know what his pitch count is?” Prior was a once in a generation type arm as was wood and dusty killed them both.

By FJR

March 10, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

DOB,

can you email me from a non-work e-mail account? fjrabon@gmail.com

By kenlevy

March 10, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

Great blog today, especially starting focusing on two winners The Braves and The Beatles. It’s great to see The Braves “Come Together” this spring!!

By kenlevy

March 10, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

Great blog today, especially starting focusing on two winners The Braves and The Beatles. It’s great to see The Braves “Come Together” this spring!!

By N8

March 10, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

FJR

Or they could have just redone ALL of the vocals again in the studio afterwards.

While I actually agree with you (I do think the Eagles did it live), I’m not sure I buy the “Because thecnology being as it was at the time, there would have been tell-tale traces.”

KISS has recently admitted that literally (sorry DOB - I love to use that word incorrectly. LOL!) NONE of KISS ALIVE! was actually live. There were overdubs GALORE on all of the vocals, in fact the crowd noise was added (actually enhanced) after the fact. And that is thought of as one of the greatest live albums of all time, if not the best kiss album. It was done in 1975, so I’m not completely sold on “the lack of technology” not allowing bands to do it.

When that KISS album was dissected on VH1’s “classic albums” show, and it was announced that much of that album is the product of studio work, there was MANY current rockstars (people who would have knowledge of how “live” albums are done, that were shocked that that album wasn’t actually live.

As a KISS fan, (who has seen them live many times), believe me….I’m glad they “fixed” it up. :-)

But again, not trying to argue with you about the Eagles. I think Seven Bridges Road was legit, based on seeing them live an being in awe of their dead on vocals that sounded just like the album. Not many bands can say that.

Except for Milli Vanilli.

By Niels Boor

March 10, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

Workinlkeadawg: “Boor..Gotcha! since when did I care about your fluent criticizm?”

Seems to me like you were begging for it, here. My mistake.

“My point is the Braves haven’t been able to sustain a late season winning streak in a couple of yrs”

You had a point?!?

(A) I never would have guessed that, and (2) anything about winning streaks or “rotation solidity” would have been about the last thing I would have suspected to be your “point”.

Streaks don’t matter — whether the Braves win 2, lose 1 all season; lose 54 to start the season then reel off 108 wins; or vice versa, they end up (probably) first in the NL East with a 108-54 record. Don’t get hung up on streaks, except in the sense that the more they lose up front, the more they’re gonna need to win later to wind up on top.

McFann—

So you really do go for the Pillsbury doughboy type. Hmmph — go figure. You should be popular at university.

Oh, no, there’s nothing wrong with his plump, pasty, pastry face — nice, clear skin, if a bit fuzzy for my taste.

Maybe a good back-up plan would be Chad Paronto’s left cheek. The way the Braves recycle, he should be coming back thru before long.

(Except, I hear he shaves his butt.)

8-)

By Squince

March 10, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this

FJR -

Totally agree about Baily. The central is terrible, so Dusty will pitch him every five days, in hopes that the Reds can compete with the Cubs for the division (I still don’t think they have a chance). Plus, they will tremendously overwork their 11.5 million closer and he’ll probably hit the DL soon after the All-Star break.

Disagree on Harang, however. I think he’s reached workhorse status by now.

Anyway, enough about the irrelevent Reds. Enjoyed my first night of blogging. Time to finish up watching the Godfather. Don Corleone is playing with his grandson in the garden…want to enjoy the finale.

By Squince

March 10, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this

Speaking of Paronto, who’s going to be the token fat guy in the bullpen this year?

Is Ray King available?

By FJR

March 10, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this

well yeah, you can completely take out all the vocals and just leave in the drums and guitars live, which don’t really bleed a lot because the instruments are so loud its easier to isolate the microphone. My point was that prior to protools you couldn’t pull out one vocal track and leave the others in. Even with protools, its really hard to do.

And it wasn’t a big surprise to a lot of people when KISS admitted that, as you could tell at times if you were really listening. It was strongly suspected for a long time. The vocals just didn’t have the same “live ambience” as you would expect. Also, everybody knew that KISS wasn’t that good live and would have had to play the show of their lives to get anywhere close to sounding like that.

Now its easier to make overdubbed vocals sound live than it was then. But back then, you can turn the KISS album up really loud and then pull another more reliable live record out and you can tell the difference in the vocals.

By N8

March 10, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

FJR

“Prior was a once in a generation type arm as was wood and dusty killed them both.”

No denying that Baker has NO CLUE how to handle a pitching staff, and was directly responsible, IMO, for Prior’s arm issues.

However, the same can’t be said for Wood, IMO. He had 4 managers from 1998 - 2002 (Riggleman, Baylor, Lacheman, and Kimm - the last two were interim managers in 2002) , before Baker took over in 2003.

It was Riggleman who left Wood out there as a 21 year old rookie to throw 122 pitches in the 20 K game (keep in mind that they were INTENSE pitches at that - adrenalin pumping big time).

Add to that, Wood actually threw less innings in 2003 (his first under Baker), than he did in 2002, while only making one less start. So whatever “issues” Kerry Wood has with his arm, were more due to his overuse BEFORE Baker arrived.

Just my opinion. I’m TOTALLY with you on Prior. I’m rootin for that guy to succeed in SD. The GAME needs him.

By Bobby's Cox

March 10, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

McFann:

Yes another daily mistake by Bowman….I get so sick reading his stories “due to the fact that” he makes so many mistakes and has NO STYLE.

can the guy not write “due to the fact that” in every f-ing article?

someone teach the guy to just write facts “due to the fact that” it would make his writing a lot less redundant.

By Niels Boor

March 10, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this

McFann—

Whoa!!

On re-reading my latest post, that was way too crude.

And a cheap shot to boot, since you’ve probably already retired.

Sorry — my apologies.

I’ll try to keep it (my sense of “humor”) reined in henceforth.

:-(

By FJR

March 10, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I agree to an extent about wood, part of the damage had likely already been done, but I think dusty was the nail in the coffin. Even when wood started showing problems in 2003 and 2004 Dusty rode him like a horse. If he had taken it easy in late 2003 and early 2004, wood likely could have avoided a lot of his problems.

By David O'Brien

March 10, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

Niels Boor, you know what would be great? If we never, ever see the last sentence you wrote in parenthesis in that 11:05 p.m. post.

Yes, if we never, ever read that again, here or anywhere else, that would be great.

By Braveheart

March 10, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

Nope. prissy ain’t complicated. I’m just trying to understand how it applies to Jordan Schafer.

I think whoever called Schafer prissy is just trying to say that if he played basketball, he would be a Duke Blue Devil. He just has that look. Not necessarily a bad thing. But the look is undeniable.

It was great to see Motte get some work for the Cards today. Gotta love it when a fellow Z disciple gets his shot. word to dennis leonard.

By Bobby's Cox

March 10, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this

Wood and Prior were both on the juice.

Out here in SoCal, it was no secret that Prior was on it (a USC grad). No secret either that McGwire (who went to high school at religious boy’s school Damien in La Verne, CA - my hometown) did it as well. Also, I knew Giambi’s trainer who admitted that Giambi did the juice. The Giambi brothers grew up in West Covina, a few cities over - down the street from my best friend’s cousin.

Wood, that man looks half the size he used to be.

By richbrave

March 10, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this

GIL in MECHANICSVILLE:

Are you out there buddy? Have you any access to Braves T.V.? I’m dying here thinking I only have 18 games to watch when they play the Nats AND the ignominity of having to listen to Don Sutton. No TBS announcers, except cut reject Sutton. How about MLB T.V.? Lew or Adirondack Dave suggested that venue.

By glove51

March 10, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this

DOB, I saw Wilco at the Cain;s Ballroom, here in Tulsa Saturday night and what a show it was! The abnd was really into. Earlier in the day Jeff Tweedy had received a steroid shot for his vocal chords (or he would not have been able to sing; good thing they only have two shows left for awhile he was screaming like nobody’s business) and he made a joke about how it might be their greatest show ever, but there would be an asterisk beside it. Then he said he was $&#@in’ ripped after getting the shot. It gave “A Shot in the Arm” a whole new meaning!

The opener was John Doe of the late great X. His set was fairly short, but rocked. His band had a very big, but tight sound for 3 guys and one backing female singer. Have you heard his latest - “A Year in the Wilderness”?

Anyway, it was obvious that Tweedy and Wilco loved the venue and loved the crowd. It seems like some of the more knowledgeable acts in the industry love the Cain’s and its history. I saw Elvis Costello there two years ago on St. Patrick’s Day and he went on and on about the history of the place.

The show went on about 28 songs I think, they did 5 of the Woody Guthrie songs from the Mermaid Avenue records. They did 8 or 9 songs on the first encore.

Here is the setlist:

You Are My Face Muzzle of Bees One By One California Stars Impossible Germany Handshake Drugs I’m Always In Love A Shot in the Arm Side With The Seeds She’s a Jar Jesus, etc. Pick Up The Change Airline to Heaven Forget the Flowers At My Window Sad and Lonely Hotel Arizona War on War Via Chicago

Hate It Here Heavy Metal Drummer Walken I’m The Man Who Loves You Red-Eyed and Blue> I Got You (At The End of the Century) (Happy birthday sung to Brendan Canty and belated happy birthday sung to Andy, the merch guy) Kingpin

Monday I’m A Wheel

By Bowman

March 10, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this

DOB

Can you please take my spot on the braves MLB site, due to the fact that this is a national website and although the internet is national and even international, my poor writing skills will still be less aparent writing on a world wide regional website such as the Atlanta Journal Constition which is termed AJC due to the fact that AJC stands for the Atlanta Journal Constition, and i can still let you have your amazing daily blogs due to the fact that you due an incredible job due to the fact that you get a lot of love by your fellow bloggers?

By Random

March 10, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

Daveinzona—

Thanks for the support.

I suppose you saw that DOB shot me down here.

Oh, well — we’ll see.

I think there’ll be a difference for Escobar between Pena being down on the farm and being gone gone, if he is indeed waived or traded.

I see the opening day bench as being Thorman, Anderson, Pena, Prado & Lopez.

Then in the first week of the season, we either trade Thorman or try to slip him thru waivers, and either bring up Lillibridge or bench whoever we got for Thorman.

When Infante comes back, Lillibridge goes down for more “PT” (or Prado goes down, if Lilly never came up).

By chrisklob

March 11, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this

richbrave, check with channelsurfing.net during the season. They have broadcast a few ST games (including one Braves game) so far but every day they have a wide variety of NBA and NCAA BB games and a slew of other stuff including NHL, college baseball and curling (yes, curling).

Video quality isn’t tv quality, but it’s better than nothing.

By Greg in TN

March 11, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

Couple thoughts after watching much of the game via replay tonight…

Jurrjens fastball gets to the hitter pretty quickly, team that with his slow wind-up and I can see how he’ll be tough to hit. He also wants to get you out on his pitch for certain. He jammed a few guys and also had a couple slow rollers on balls just off the outside part of the plate. Very impressive to watch throw, he looks effortless out there. He likes to get ahead of the batter, and many times was able to today which is great compared to the times last year when we had guys that kept having to battle back from behind in the count.

For a guy that hasn’t played much third, Lil’Bridge took a couple extra base hits away with the glove at 3rd. Prado played pretty good at short and had a couple nifty plays to the left, one to start a 6-4-3 DP and again late.

Didn’t realize Ryan Drese was the opening day starter for the Rangers in 2005. He struggled at times with his location and gave up three hits today but no runs.

Javy Lopez’s 7th inning blast was vintage Javy, jumping all over a Chris Perez fastball and depositing it into the berm in left.

All in all a good day to be a Brave at the ballpark. Night baseball tomorrow night with Glavine taking on the Nats. According to Bowman’s game write up, Moylan is expected to pitch another inning tomorrow night.

By uga-brave

March 11, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

schafer looks like a bigger version of steve finley. you gotta love the early returns on jjj. the guy pounds the strike zone and gets ahead of hitters.

watching the interview with jjj on the replay on sportsouth, seems like a class act. got a hunch jjj and escobar might be household names down the road.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this

glove51, now that’s a great show (Wilco/John Doe). Wish I could’ve seen that one — and at Cain’s, no less. Had a girlfriend from Tulsa while I was a freshman at KU; went down to see her at Christmas and we went by Cain’s Ballroom. Unfortunately there were no good shows the couple of nights I was there.

Saw John Doe at Smith’s Old Bar late last year in Atlanta. He’s so very good live, great rapport with the audience. His latest is a rockin’ record; but then, his last three have all been great.

Last saw Wilco about 5-6 years ago, at the Fox in Atlanta. Those Mermaid Avenue albums are so brilliant, with the mighty Billy Bragg. Some of their best stuff.

By uga-brave

March 11, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

might be a long year in st.louis.

lots of questions on that staff. mulder, carpenter, and reyes all coming off injuries. they got a pitcher playing center field and if pujols goes down larussa might want to ask the bush family for a budweiser allowance.

By uga-brave

March 11, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this

pretty candid interview with b’macc. looks like he is really focusing on his defense.

pretty refreshing to hear a guy that has been to back to back all star games, acknowledge that his defense is subpar.

By rainman

March 11, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this

after watching jj pitch today I have to believe that he is in the rotation. If that is the case and hampton stays healthy then chuck goes down and heads up the r braves rotation. for me I thinking that he could get us the things we need to win the east with come trad deadline time. with pitching being what it is a solid # 3-4 starter that will be cheap another couple of years should bring a nice bounty. I think in any trade the braves need to also think about next year and what to do about first base. tex in my mind will be gone and as much as we hear about flowers bp it is only bp. so someones top first base prospect would be nice to have stuffed away in the farm system. anyway cant wait for the season to start it is going to be a great year to be a braves fan. go braves and ty to DOB for all his hard work.

By BA

March 11, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this

I think the Braves big secret this summer is that if Chipper goes down…PENDLETON! He’s lost all that weight,the only stipulation was he will refuse to take the field if for whatever reason Marvin Freeman appears on the mound. In reality, it has to be Prado, right? I think Lillibridge has a shot, but eventually this guy Prado has got to get his chance. Prado, Escobar, then Johnson in the three hole (he can draw a walk at will) setting the table for Tex and the new fat kid Frenchy. This Jurrjens is going to be a stud, I like his presence. I like that outfielder, Gorky?! All these base stealers- but I don’t see Bobby giving all these kids the green light. By the way, I think Lopez is a lock- if he can’t hack it they can do the Mondesi(cut him in may). We need a vet with power off of the bench. Most of the music chat here is a little over my head, but “Whiskey Bottle” by Uncle Tupelo is the greatest song no one has ever heard.

By Capt. Caveman

March 11, 2008 1:10 AM | Link to this

BA

I’ll be honest and say that I have never heard of 99.9% of the music that DOB talks about. Skynyrd and a few 60’s bands and then I’m all “who the heck is that?” when he’s talking music.

By ippississiM

March 11, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this

Lew:

The link is up.

By nfieldr

March 11, 2008 1:17 AM | Link to this

DOB, gotta agree with you about the Wire, IMHO, the best show ever. Two questions for you. As a veteran scribe, what did you think of the Season 5 story line about the Sun and the newspaper business in general. And two, which version of Down in the Hole was your favorite? I still like the BB of AL version from season 1. -30- indeed.

By BA

March 11, 2008 1:58 AM | Link to this

Cave man, ippississiM, what do you think about Lopez? Chuck James in the bullpen? Is Schafer going to make this club? Is Lillibridge actually seventeen years old? Did you hear about the Mets? They installed a chest high urinal for Moises Alou to soak his hands in as part of his rehab. Pedro has been in an alternate throwing program, using chickens with sharpened claws! They have enlisted Juan Marichal to help. Also making an appearance, David Cone! Helping the mets bullpen pitchers, er, warm up…

By BA

March 11, 2008 2:25 AM | Link to this

Meanwhile, in Phillies camp, coaches marveled at Brett Myers new “throwing program” that involves throwing his wife against a wall repeatedly until the police arrive! Also, reports are that Pat Burrell, after five years in the league, has finally laid off a breaking pitch away. He struck out swinging on the next three breaking balls he saw.

By Capt. Caveman

March 11, 2008 3:43 AM | Link to this

BA

For Real, I used to eat lunch at a Mex restaurant here in Atlanta called On-the-Border near Lenox Mall. The last year Javy was here he was in a groove of a lifetime at the plate and he ate lunch there everyday as a ritual. Now I used to play ball and I would go about the same time as him and we would talk about minor league ball and other stuff. I can honestly say he is extremely dedicated and serious when he puts his mind to it - I would put my money on him making the team unless something unforeseen happens.

As for the Mutts, I heard that Ricky Henderson was organizing Texas Hold’em Tournaments in the clubhouse trying to win a uniform off a rookie so he could come back and play.

By Moby Grape

March 11, 2008 4:59 AM | Link to this

After talking to a couple of people today, I think there’s something to the Juan Rivera thing. I believe the Braves do have interest, just not sure if there’s a matchDOB

why would they need another outfielder even one with a little pop,though his seasons have yo-yoed pretty regularly so far? He made over 2 mill last season so he seems kinda expensive for a pichhitter.I’d think they would be more interested in someone who can play third. Just wondering.

By Niels Boor

March 11, 2008 5:14 AM | Link to this

Can do, DOB, no prob. (You’ll notice, I hope, that I apologized almost immediately.)

By Random

March 11, 2008 5:26 AM | Link to this

Sheesh!!

I just sta through fourteen (14) iterations of the My Cooquette’s Gone/Retirement Red Zone/99 Get It cycle of ads.

It was going when I turned on the radio this morning, and it’s still going strong.

That’s over 40 minutes — thank you, 680 Duh Phan!

By Moby Grape

March 11, 2008 5:38 AM | Link to this

Streaks don’t matter — whether the Braves win 2, lose 1 all season; lose 54 to start the season then reel off 108 wins; or vice versa, they end up (probably) first in the NL East with a 108-54 record. Don’t get hung up on streaksBoor

is that a for example or are you saying that this team is going to win 108 games?

By Random

March 11, 2008 5:41 AM | Link to this

Braveheart—

Are you referring to “Z the Magazine”?

By Random

March 11, 2008 5:51 AM | Link to this

for example

By Moby Grape

March 11, 2008 5:58 AM | Link to this

I guess Coach missed the part about Rivera working at 1B, which was the whole point of the original post — Rivera as a possible backup 1B/ OFDOB

I know that I missed it. So now I know why. Thanx

By Capt. Caveman

March 11, 2008 6:15 AM | Link to this

Morning DOB

So what have any other journalists said after seeing Jair throw so far. Do you get the feeling that he is generating any buzz??

And how do you feel now about Javy’s chances now that he has been able to come off the bench recently with the RBI last week and the homer yesterday?? Isn’t that the kind of bat that Bobby’s looking for out of him??

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 11, 2008 6:18 AM | Link to this

O’Brien , I must have missed your fantasy league roster.

Juan Rivera has never played a game in his life at 1B. Nor has he this spring. You say he is working out at 1B ? Please , give me a break already !

Matt Diaz has a whopping two games experience at 1B , why not make him your SS while your at it !

Mark Teahen actually has 137 games in the outfield and 237 at 3B.

My trade proposal is both smart and shrewd in practicality.

Teahen would give the Braves five outfielders without sacrificing depth on the infield. He could back up Chipper at 3B , spell Diaz in LF and pinch hit off the bench.

Hell , Teahen even has nine games of MLB experience at 1B.

Christ , my idea makes too much damn common sense !

Frank Wren , are you reading this ?

By ncscoots

March 11, 2008 6:26 AM | Link to this

Re protecting Jurrjens, he should be able to go 170 IP this year, based on his previous high of 140+. Depending on his mechanics, even 180 is not out of the realm. I haven’t seen him pitch (which is why I never voice an opinion on the guy), but if he’s free and easy, racking up a higher IP won’t be as detrimental. So, if he’s getting into the 6th or 7th when pitching, he’ll have to skip a few starts to stay within reason on his IP. Pitching him at 5 makes sense.

By nOLIE

March 11, 2008 6:58 AM | Link to this

Christ , my idea makes too much damn common sense !Coach

but why would the Royals want to get rid of a decent player still cheap and under control for awhile? Who will we trade for him? Will we need a gun?

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 11, 2008 7:29 AM | Link to this

Nolie , that argument could be applied toward may young players who get traded for many different reasons.

The Braves would have to give up one or two young players in return as the Royals are building a young team. They are a small market team in need of cheap , talented prospects.

Why don’t you give Dayton Moore a call and ask him who and how much.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 11, 2008 7:40 AM | Link to this

At any rate , the starting pitching looks great as does the bullpen with a team ERA of 3.41.

The offense is already in full gear averaging 6.35 runs per game.

The defense needs a little work as it has committed 16 errors already. Escobar and Chipper have three apiece.

As for the bench , it’s a bit of a mess. Infante is out , Thorman is on the trading block , lillibridge and Prado look like they will both make the team by default and Javy is far from a lock to make this team.

All in all , it’s a big improvement over the problems the Braves had last spring training.

By richbrave

March 11, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this

CHRISKLOB:

Went to bed and didn’t see your post until this morning. Thanks I’ll give it a go.

By Bobby Cool

March 11, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this

As Today This is the Opening Day Roster: Pitcher: Hudson,Smoltz,Glavine,Hampton,jurrjen,Soriano,Moylan,Yates,Ohman,Bennett,Reyes,Boyer,Acosta. Catcher: Mccann,Lopez Infiled: Taxeira,Johnson,Chipper,Escobar,Thorman,Lillinbridge Outfielder: Diaz,Kotsay,Francoeur,Anderson

Any Question??????

By Braveheart

March 11, 2008 8:59 AM | Link to this

Random, Z is a dude Motte and I both played for.

Jurrjens has the uni number of Louisiana Lightning. He needs to strike out more batters to be like the Gator though. But I’ll take his almost 2 to 1 groundball to flyball ratio thus far this spring. Hopefully, he will have the ability to rear back and blow someone away when he needs to instead of being too dependent upon the fielders to do his work for him. But he looks great and it makes me feel good and bad. The Chuckster is my boy but I’m selling the fella out for Jair. I feel like going all Deniro in Copland on The Chuckster.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

Capt Caveman: Yes, that’s exactly what the Braves are looking for from Javy. He hits a couple more bombs this spring, or just keeps consistently hitting the ball hard, he’s got a good chance of making the club.

As for Jurrjens, yes, everyone who’s seen him is impressed. But remember, it’s only been two great starts, and one of those was against Detroit, whose writers had already seen him last year.

Cardinals media here yesterday was certainly impressed, especially since he so thoroughly outpitched Wainwright (although the former Brave Wainwright was pretty tough after he got that big curve working correctly).

By SNIPER-69

March 11, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this

Mets: 94 wins

braves: 86 wins

Phillies 80 wins

By Client #9

March 11, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

Hey, has anyone seen “Kristen” - I owe her some money…

By Braveheart

March 11, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

I keep hearing everyone talk about how Javy is so much skinnier. But is he really? He kinda looks about as skinny as he did in 2003. Javy had lost 35 pounds in the winter before the 2003 season. He, of course, only dropped those pounds before a contract year.

By Shaun

March 11, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

Yesterday on ESPN’s Baseball Today podcast, Peter Gammons said the Braves were the best team he’s seen this spring and are the favorites in the NL East.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

nfieldr: The Wire writer is a former newspaperman, and I gotta say (unfortunately) he nailed it. His take on the industry, or at least a large segment of the industry, was cynical but basically accurate….

I like Tom Waits’ original version the most, but also loved three other versions by Blind Boys, Neville Brothers and, of course, my man Steve Earle.

By Shaun

March 11, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

SNIPER-69, not sure how you can project 14 wins seperates any two of the big three in the NL East. Braves finished only 5 games out last season in third place and I just don’t see that any team got significantly better or worse than the other two since then. Maybe you’re seeing something a lot of us can’t. Looks to me like those three may be about as evenly matched as any three division rivals in baseball.

By McFann

March 11, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

Choppinmama—

I’ll be watchin’ for ya tonight! ; )

Bobby’s Cox—

Due to the fact that he’s not the best writer in baseball, I’m not too bigga fan of Bowman, either. I’ll save some of his stuff—I just cross out the misprints!

Now, Niels Boor—

Yeah, that was disturbing! I mean yikes! Too much info there!! But thanks for the apology. It is accepted.

Uga-Brave*—

pretty refreshing to hear a guy that has been to back to back all star games, acknowledge that his defense is subpar.

So true! That’s one reason why I like him so much. He’s got a great attitude—always acknowledging stuff like that. That interview was great!

Bobby Cool—

Any Question??????

Yeah, I’ve got one……who’s “Be”?

By eware

March 11, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

Has anyone listened to the new Black Crowes album Warpaint? Thoughts?

By SNIPER-69

March 11, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

I disagree Shaun, adding Santana, having Pedro for a full season and Duaner Sanchez back in the bullpen is significant but I won’t be able to prove it until the season plays out…..Stay tuned.

By Steve McP

March 11, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, you may be right about Javy getting set for a contract year by getting fitter and losing weight, lets hope that his approach this year reflects a similar commitment to contracting and that he gets the bat going off the bench. I am sure that the Braves brains trust will have been delighted to see him coing cold off the bench and hitting so well, that is exactly what they need from their back ups, especially if he has got his defence better in the off season.

By the way, wouldn’t it have been nice if Andruw had approached his contract year with the same professionalism?

By Shaun

March 11, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

SNIPER-69, yes, but the Braves probably will be better (a lot of younger players are a year older and a year closer to peak ages) and the Phillies are probably better now that one of if not their best pitchers is going to pitch more innings (Brett Myers). So I don’t know if any team is 14-games better than any other. Yes, I can understand the Mets being favored but it’s awful close.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

March 11, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

I think Juan Rivera would be a great addition and I’m not so sure the Angels would really ask that much for him. They are loaded with depth anywhere so they don’t necessarily have to ask for the moon.

The Braves could offer Thorman and Boyer or Bennett. Maybe even throw in B. Pena. Rivera is a heck of a player and he can hit. Not to mention if this Tyler Flowers kid is the real thing, Rivera could be re-signed for a two year deal or so at the end of the season to bridge the gap between Tex and Flowers if Tex does move on, which is very likely.

By David-ATL14

March 11, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

Coach you are as misguided in your tirades about the Braves acquiring Teahan as you were (misinformed and proud of it) about the whole Thorman/options fiasco.

Carry on with the mindless rants though.

By ncscoots

March 11, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

Coach, Coach, Coach…Teahen has averaged .280+/.350/.450 the last two years, can even steal a base or two, can play both infield and both outfield corners, and is under club control from now til forever. What part of “cheap , talented” doesn’t he fit?

The kid might hit as high as 3 in the Royals’ order, fercrissakes. I can see you proposing the scenario once, just for chuckles, but other than that? Give up the impossible dream.

By 18 Wheels of Love

March 11, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

Drive-by Truckers’s on Conan Thursday!

DOB, how about a Thorman/B. Jones for Zack Grienke trade?

By TBraveFan

March 11, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

DOB Choppinmama and I went outside just before 2:38, stared hopingly towards the east, walked around the complex checking a few different spots (just in case) and never saw a darn thing…

By Random

March 11, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

I don’t know, DOB.

You said “I don’t believe Pena’s presence will have anything to do with Escobar’s performance, not at all.”

Well, it’s more Pena’s absence I was thinking about, and the reason(s) therefor.

Allow me to repeat some wild speculations I made late last night:

I think there’ll be a difference for Escobar between Pena being down on the farm and being gone gone, if he is indeed waived or traded.

I see the opening day bench as being Thorman, Anderson, Pena, Prado & Lopez.

Then in the first week of the season, we either trade Thorman or try to slip him thru waivers, and either bring up Lillibridge or bench whoever we got for Thorman.

When Infante comes back, Lillibridge goes down for more “PT” (or Prado goes down, if Lilly never came up).

Is all that simply too far-fetched to comment on? (I’ll admit that it very well could be.)

I’ve also got a question about what you were saying about waivers earlier (“major league waivers” vs “minor league waivers”).

It was my understanding that if a team put a player on waivers, and he was claimed, the waiving team could rescind the waiver, as long as they kept the player on the major league roster.

So, by that, the Braves could try to sneak Thorman thru waivers the last week of ST or first week of reg sea, and if (when) he was claimed, rescind the waiver and keep him on their 25.

Is my understanding wrong? (I admit my source is not the MLB rulebook, but Wikipedia, which doesn’t make a distinction between major and minor league waivers.

Thanks.

By Steve McP

March 11, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

Just going back to the Thorman discussions yesterday.

With Infante injured and now likely to be on the DL for the first 3 or 4 weeks of the season, this gives the Braves the chance to hang onto Thorman at the start of the season and then get him through waivers once Infante if fit. This is because most clubs will not have space to offer him a place on their 25 man roster at that stage of the season (which I think they will have to do if claiming him off waivers), he can then hone his skills in the minors and if Tex gets a DL injury then he can be called up to cover.

By DirtyDawg

March 11, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

From the posts here we’ve pretty much written off the re-signing of this Tex guy. So what you’re saying is that unless Atlanta runs the table this year, we dumped a guy that had all the earmarks of an all-star at a bargain basement price - SaltyMan. Hope we don’t look back at this as another loser of a trade like all those young guys for J.D. Drew.

By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy

March 11, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

18 Wheels— I’ll be watching it on Conan, tonight. I posted it a couple of days ago, but I guess nobody that was interested saw it. Any idea what they will be performing? Three Dimes Down, Goode’s Field Road, That Man I Shot, or Self-Destructive Zones all seem like good candidates.

By Random

March 11, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

Booby Cool: “Any Question??????”

Yeah — what’s the rest of your proposed bench and bullpen?

And a suggestion: make more felicitous and effective use of your carriage return (“Enter”).

By Lew

March 11, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

Eware-I got Warpaint by the Black Crowes over the weekend. I’m not a HUGE fan, but have seen them twice in concert and have several others of their CD’s.

I think if a person is a BC fan, they will be happy with this CD-unless they were looking for a totally new direction from the band. This is, to my way of thinking, a quite typical BC album. It is blues based Southern Rock and sounds just like the Black Crowes. If I were to describe it with one word, it would be Comfortable.

It is good, well recorded, well played and very typical of their music. Nothing particularly new and unique, but like I said-Comfortable. I enjoyed it.

By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy

March 11, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

18 Wheels

Just re-read your post and saw it says “Thursday.” A couple of days ago on the DBT Website, it said they will be on tonight, March 11th. Has the date changed? I can’t check it now because the DBT site is blocked at work.

By Epinephrine

March 11, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

Random,

B Pena has a snowball’s chance in hell of making this team. It has absolutely nothing to do with Escobar.

By 18 Wheels of Love

March 11, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

Rhinestone…I’m hoping for 3 Dimes Down. And it’s TH not TUES.

By TennesseePaul

March 11, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

Yesterday on ESPN’s Baseball Today podcast, Peter Gammons said the Braves were the best team he’s seen this spring and are the favorites in the NL East.

Gammons called the Braves for several years now (not always to win, but to be contenders). He’s been pretty jazzed up since the “Baby Braves” showed up. But, even if things aren’t looking too good for a team he still has a way to tell it like it is without any derogatory spin. It’s why he’s a hall of famer.

By 18 Wheels of Love

March 11, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Rhinestone…I stand corrected.

It is TONIGHT…NOT Thursday.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

So, by that, the Braves could try to sneak Thorman thru waivers the last week of ST or first week of reg sea, and if (when) he was claimed, rescind the waiver and keep him on their 25.

Is my understanding wrong? (I admit my source is not the MLB rulebook, but Wikipedia, which doesn’t make a distinction between major and minor league waivers.Random

Yes, your understanding is wrong. As I tried to explain, two totally different things. To send Thorman, who’s out of options, to the minors the Braves would have to get him through “outright waivers” so they could outright him to Richmond.

Outright, or irrevocable, waivers are needed when a player has been on a 40-man roster for three years and is out of options, and his team wants to send him to the minors. These waivers can’t be reversed: If a player is claimed by another team, he’s lost to that team. Period.

These aren’t like the waivers that teams put most or all of their players through at midseason or later, which are revocable. That’s done so that if a player does clear, the team can trade him after the July 31 deadline since he cleared waivers. That clearance lasts the rest of the season.

But that has nothing to do with the situation of Thorman and other out-of-options players. Totally different type of waivers.

By DAP

March 11, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

Sniper ill play your game, you rouge…

Braves: 94 wins

Phillies: 90 Wins (wildcard?)

Mets: 85 Wins

since i think the west will beat up on each other pretty bad, i think its possible that the braves will have the most wins in the league.

By Workinlkeadawg

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

Hey RichBrave— I don’t exactly know what you mean by “man up for my man”. If you mean write nothing but positive and affable comments concerning Diaz, then I think every blog I’ve written concerning Diaz, have been. So I STAND BY my feelings that Diaz should be an everyday player. I think His stats warrant it.

By Workinlkeadawg

March 11, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

I agree totally TennPaul. Gammons is an icon that all reporters should aspire to be.

By sean

March 11, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

Hi David, Its fun to come to each year to see who will start the season and we always know there are changes through out the year. I was wondering what you thought about my opening day roster prediction. Starting pitchers in order.1. Hudson,2.Glavine,3.Smoltz,4.Hampton,5.Jurrjens. Bullpen.1.Soriano,2.Moylan,3.M.Acosta,4.T.Yates,5.Bennett,6.W.Ohman,7.Boyer. Catcher:Mccain,Lopez First base: Teixeria,Thorman(Only because they have no other power bats to come off the bench from the left side) 2nd Base: Johnson,Prado SS.Escobar 3RD. base C.Jones,Lillbride Left feild:Diaz,Anderson as 4th outfielder,CF.Kotsay,RF Francoeur. What do you think? Thanks, I always look forward to your post.

By TennesseePaul

March 11, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

Braveheart: The Chuckster is my boy but I’m selling the fella out for Jair.

I’ll wait on this. So far Jair has been good. Not much to complain about. But he wasn’t a big strike out machine in the minors. He had a lower K/BB rate and a higher ERA in the minors than Davies. Chuck, on the other hand, had a higher K/BB rate than both of these guys and has had at least a 2/1 ratio since being up in the show. So I don’t know if it’s… ummmmm… proper, if that’s the right word, to expect a higher amount of K’s from Jair. It’s not exactly his “style” of pitching. At least it hasn’t been. He seems to suffer from a similar issue James suffers from. They hit a wall in IP eventually and start to wear down. Hopefully they can both work out of it and throw more innings over time.
The resolution to each doing so is to be economical with the pitch count. Implying they’d have to pitch to more contact. In Jair’s case this shouldn’t be too bad. He keeps the ball low. James though is a fly ball pitcher and that gets unsettling at times. Consistent mechanics should help James considerably. In his “worst” season in the majors he was league average. But being a James fan I’m sure you are well aware of all the merits he has.

I hope they both stick around and improve for the sake of the club. If these two crap out this team will really have to work to reach October.

By Fan-coeur (means Fan-heart)

March 11, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

Few things (my excuse for this lateness is that I’ve been so busy, unlike others around here, lol):

Anders

Nah, not really. But considering that Mets fans are so desperate these days that they have nothing else to do than try to mock Braves fans through their blog I’m guessing your real name means: ‘absolument cretin naturel de merde’. Dude, don’t bother looking that up; just take it as a synonym of ‘Mets fan’ (Hence you are really the esprit perdu).

Lew I was referring to Jason Schmidt, rather (Jason, Mike, they’re all common names). Boone wasn’t going to be the only one we’d had using steroids (see Sheffield, Joyner, Caminitti, etc.), and those 150 rbi with Seattle the following year would have helped with us, even for a year.

McFann

2 1/2 years?!? Dude, seriously, now. How old are you?? 9??

By sri

March 11, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

I wonder if U Kno Who remembers this photo shoot.

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=wojciechowski_gene&id=3285908&sportCat=mlb&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab2pos1

By Random

March 11, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Thanks, DOB!!!

By Jim

March 11, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

I think a more relavant stat than innings pitched is pitches thrown. If Jurrjens can chalk up a lot of 6-10 pitch innings in a game, then he can go 7 innings with only about 80 pitches thrown.

Chuck James big problem last year was not the innings pitched, but the pitches thrown. By the 6th inning he was up around the 100 pitch mark. It made each game take more of a toll on his arm and was a primary reason for his decreased effectiveness in the 6th and 7th innings.

I think aggregate pitch count and number of tough (high pitch count) games should be the measures of when to slow down or shut down a young pitcher.

By Random

March 11, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

Steve McP—

Great minds do think alike!

Epinephrine—

Well, we’ll just have to see.

By Workinlkeadawg

March 11, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

Hey FLANGE__You opened the can of worms concerning Thorman. Yes it was my misunderstanding the major league option rules.But when you pointed that out to me,it kinda revealed the Braves Nation’s feelings. Hey, by some high finance wrangling the Braves keep Tex. If not, Flowers is a good OPTION.

By Fan-coeur (means Fan-heart)

March 11, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

If we’re gonna carve pitcher’s season up into pieces I suggest you start with Glavine and his finish. I’m talking about having the onions to get it done. Maine showed up, Glavine didn’t.

Anders, you are an idiot.

You may not take Maine seriously but I think if Wren could get him and his 15 wins from last year at his $450K salary tonight he’d wet himself trying.

Anders-cretin, I think you’ll be the one wetting your pants continuously throughout the season every time Maine gets tagged for 7 runs and can’t even reach 5 innings per start as well.

By TennesseePaul

March 11, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

Chuck James big problem last year was not the innings pitched, but the pitches thrown

Jim: I’d agree about the pitch count, but James problem was inconsistent mechanics which lead to high pitch counts and low innings totals. Jair, I’m not terribly familiar with. That blogger nut has a Jurrjens sight that goes through each and every step Jair makes from waking up to sleeping, and then recounts Jair’s dreams. I haven’t gone through all of it yet though so I don’t know how Jair’s pitch count, mechanics, and innings pitched all work out. If Jair is aiming for more contact he could do well for himself. Maddux pitched similarly and still chalked up a lot of K’s over his career. But of course, Maddux’s game was to get through as many innings with as few pitches as possible.

By OrlandoFan

March 11, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

DOB: I know it’s not your doing, but you might be interested in knowing that for the past couple of days some of your notes as published in the stories from the paper are dropping the names and some other words. I would suspect it’s because of print coding that is not being picked up by your Web editing system. But I thought you might want to alert someone. Makes readers guess sometimes (not always) about whom you actually have written. Of course, loyal bloggers know everything and aren’t worred about it so much.

By TexasBrave

March 11, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

DOB - Not that the Braves would do it, but when would be the best time to try and “sneak” Thorman through waivers to the minors?

I can see grimice on your face, but Thorman is only going to get better by getting consistant playing time which he is not going to get unless he goes to the minors and plays everyday. As long as Tex stays healthy we will only need someone to fill in perhaps 5 to 7 games at most.

If he really does have potential then send him down and let him work on it. Who knows he may get a chance to show it next year. Although I hope not.

By uga-brave

March 11, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

jim,

ah, if jjj has a lot of games where he throws 80 pitches over seven innings he is going to win 20 games.

think you got the cart just a little out front of the horse.

By Epinephrine

March 11, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

Chuck James absolutely kills out pen with IP and home runs. If he cannot improve on those, I’d much prefer to give the shot to someone else. Chuck’s “league average” numbers last year fail to tell the whole story. His ERA wasn’t the only problem last year.

By Fan-coeur (means Fan-heart)

March 11, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

If the Braves insist on a long-man like Carlyle in the bullpen, who gets thrown out? Acosta goes to triple-A to start the regular season? Boyer or Ring gets traded in spring training? Anyone?

And Jared continues to smoke weed while still dreaming of Bobby Cox hitting Jeff Bennett with a bat?? Anyone???

By Robert

March 11, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

DOB

Is there any way Schafer starts the year platooning with Diaz, then plays CF when Kotsay needs a rest

Thanks

By Epinephrine

March 11, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

Anders, when you fer to Maine’s “onions”, are you referring to his August 6.32 ERA and his September 5.93 ERA? Just curious

By SNIPER-69

March 11, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

DAP, I can’t see how anyone can pick the Phils to finish ahead of the Mets. It took a major collaps by the Mets for them to finish 1st by ONE game. The Mets went out and signed maybe the best left hander in the game. Pedro returns for a full season. Duaner Sanchez is back in the bullpen. What have the Phils done? There’s also the X factor of a chip on the Mets shoulder because of how the phils played them last year as well…..I don’t get it. There’s no way the Phils have a better season than the Mets. I guarantee it dude.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOG IS UP

Orlando fan, what specifically are you talking about, give me an example to take to the editors (do it here, I’ll check back)

By McFann

March 11, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

sean, our starting catcher’s name is McCann.

Fan-heart—

Uh, no. I’m much older than nine. I just never realized how much I enjoyed baseball until 2005. I’d watch it sometimes during the years before that, and had lots of fun going to games, but it never clicked till ‘05. Go figure, man.

Sure, I missed some good stuff during my time as just a casual observer, but hey, better late than never.

By DAP

March 11, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

jim i think that the correlation between high pitch counts and low innings totals are understood.

when people say chuck cant pitch more than 6 innings, we all know its because he throws to many pitches.

and we also all know that the reason he throws so many pitches is that he only has two to go to, so its hard to fool a hitter and get him out.

batters figure that they can just foul off his change up and wait for a fastball they can hit hard. so chuck racks up pitches on foul balls, and cant put the guy away.

By TennesseePaul

March 11, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Chuck James absolutely kills out pen with IP and home runs

This I’d disagree with. I don’t think James allowing HR’s is what killed the pen. And I would disagree that James “absolutely” kills the pen. He doesn’t help, but “absolute” seems so… absolute for a situation that had many culprits.
What “absolutely killed out” the Pen last year was having a 5th starter as a 3rd starter and a bunch of minor leaguer/journey men as the 4th and 5th starters. James as a 5th starter wouldn’t kill the pen. He’d be one of the best 5th starters in the game. In 35 starts preceding July 31st, 2007 James threw 199.2 innings with a sub 4.00 ERA. We signed an aging pitcher in the hopes of getting “200” innings from a third starter over 35 starts. (James can have low ERAs with his HR allowed because he can K hitters and he doesn’t walk too many prior to the HR. He certainly isn’t benefiting from tons of ground balls and double plays).

James ran into trouble last year due to inconsistent mechanics. This was either a result of shoulder discomfort or what caused the shoulder discomfort. I have a feeling it’s a twisted knot of both sending James into his struggles. Nevertheless, James kept the team in a winning position in the majority of his starts even if he didn’t go as deep as we’d have liked. But as a fifth starter he’d be great.

By OrlandoFan

March 11, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

DOB…was away for a bit…

in this story….

http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/braves/stories/2008/03/10/bravesnot_0311.html

Here’s what I saw, but it shows up briefly as correct and then changes/disappears….

a 20-year-old center-field prospect, entered the game in the sixth inning and singled in the seventh in his first at-bat. He was brought from minor-league camp as an extra for Monday’s game. … Catcher hit his second homer of camp and first since his first at-bat Feb. 29. … Reliever reported no elbow soreness Monday, a day after making his first appearance since Feb. 29. … Closer (elbow) is set to throw off the mound Tuesday and could make his Grapefruit League debut later this week. Cox said there’s no need to push him, though there are only 2 1/2 weeks left in camp. … will make his spring debut Thursday, but Cox didn’t know if James or would get that start against Detroit. James was brought along slowly after being diagnosed with a partial rotator-cuff tear in October.

By Jerry P

March 11, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

DOB If the Braves outfield next year could be Francouer, Schafer & Josh Anderson what do you think about giving our current LF hitting machine Matt Diaz enough practice at 1B to play there in the future if Tex isn’t with us next year?

By Workinlkeadawg

March 11, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Jerry B- I think that’s a heck of an idea. Check out my 3-10 5:57 blog. I’m waiting to see if boring Boors jumps your butt for even considering Diaz at 1B. He naturally did play 1B at FSU and his college coach says it’s his most natural position. So Boor head your saying FSU’s baseball head coach is “and” idiot also. Geez some guys just can’t think out of the box at all. So, Jerry P. I think it’s a way to get the best bats in the line up along with a little speed. However Cox seems to get a ‘lil nervous if He can’t platoon a potential All-Star or BA champ.