Braves

By reron

March 11, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Here’s to hoping Thor gets it cause Tex ain’t comin back…

By eware

March 11, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Lew, thanks for the Black Crowes review. You’ve recommended some great stuff in the past, so I respect what you say. I’ll pick up the album, as I’m a pretty big fan…

By Home of the Brave

March 11, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

I see Dan Meyer was just sent to the minors. Yikes!

By SNIPER-69

March 11, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

I wanted to carry this post over from the previous blog 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 Phils20 (but only this once)

March 11, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

I laughed until I cried a few weeks ago when someone tried to compare Thorman with Mike Schmidt.

Even if we buy into the theory that Thorman’s second year at a level is better than the first, he is still going to be a .250-.260 hitter with 20 some home runs and five or six times that in strikeouts.

We need to be shopping.

By Steve McP

March 11, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Have they announced the cuts today?

By 18 Wheels of Love

March 11, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

DBT’s on Conan TONIGHT!

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

Steve McP, no, they’re meeting now. Clubhouse isn’t even open until 2:30, then a big union meeting for an hour when clubhouse will be closed. We usually don’t get cuts until after the night game, so don’t expect them until then.

If I get ‘em earlier, I’ll give them. If you don’t hear it, then you know they’ve not been announced.

By taylor s

March 11, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

DOB any idea what it would take to get Rivera? Also do you feel he would play over Diaz? Average wise I doubt he would be any better but he adds a litle more pop to the lineup.

By ncscoots

March 11, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

Phils20, you got the Thorman-Schmidt “comparison” as wrong as Lew did the same day it was made, LOL. I made the original post, only to show that a bad rookie season does not necessarily foretell career doom. And I SPECIFICALLY said I was not comparing Thorman to Schmidt. Guess that was lost in translation, but I’m certainly pleased you got a chuckle, if not understanding, from the post.

By DAP

March 11, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Sniper ill repost yours from the last blog, then respond.

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.

you cant guarantee anything in base ball, sniper. ill tell you why i honestly think the phils will finish better than the mets.

i think the mets will have injury problems, and they dont have the kind of resilient team to over come them. pitching is going to be better than last year, but the offense will be worse.

early injuries will have the mets coming out of the gate really slow, and they will spend the rest of the year trying to dig out of a hole, which they will do and finish a respectable amount of games over .500

also, they have no X factor, because they got santana and think they are the team to beat. when they start losing, they dont have the fortitude to keep going.

last year, the phillies had as many if not more injuries than any other team, and they came out on top. they have a special fire, and an amazing offense that will make kendrick and moyer look decent as far as W-L records go. also, they have two very good pitchers at the top, in meyers and hamels. they arent as good as the braves or mets top two, but with their offense, it makes them just as challenging.

the phils will NOT get off to a slow start, neither will the braves, and the mets will be in a hole all year.

thats just what i think, sniper, anything could happen, obviously.

By BossLady

March 11, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Maddux best story that can be repeated in a blog was the challenge to the grounds crew to hit his pitches. Just get the ball on the MF, he says.

By Daybed Wagmoe

March 11, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

A few things:

• “Whiskey Bottle,” great song. Really like Uncle Tupelo, especially “Anodyne.” That’s a great cd, especially for summer weather.

• eware/Lew: for what it’s worth, I’ve been listening to the new Black Crowes cd some, and I gotta say that I haven’t been too impressed. I thought it was kinda boring. I wouldn’t say that I’m a big BC fan, although I love Southern Harmony and a few others cds.

• And some stats to support Bobby saying “we knew that [Maddux] would throw a strike on 3-2,” here are Maddux’s career stats on a 3-2 count (courtesy of baseball-reference.com):

1452 plate appearances, 205 hits, 338 walks, 423 strikeouts, .187 batting average.

The key there is the 338 walks in 1452 plate appearances, which equals 23% amount of the time that he didn’t throw a strike (and who knows how many of those “balls” should’ve been called strikes). 77% of the time, Maddux threw a strike with the count full. Amazing.

It should also be noted that, at the top of that section on baseball-reference.com, it says, “Count/Balls-Strikes (Incomplete or missing for many seasons before 2000).

By TennesseePaul

March 11, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the notes DOB. Interesting stuff to read.

GO BRAVES

By Renegator

March 11, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

Does anyone know if the game is telvised tonight?

By Mark Fanxeira

March 11, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Daybed Wagmoe

I’m thinkin, “how many of those strikes should have been called balls?” Considering he was known to get the calls as much as anyone.

But then again, how many of those base on balls were intentional as well?

Still, no disputing the fact that he was a god here for a few regular seasons

By Steve McP

March 11, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

Game is on FSN tonight

By chrisklob

March 11, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

TennPaul, regarding your 12.40 post on the previous blog……

Don’t know if you saw the interview that JJ gave to the SportsSouth guys after he came out of the game yesterday, but “pitching to contact” is exactly his game plan. Gaudy strikeout numbers are nice sometimes, but not necessarily the most efficient way to record outs.

By the way, that interview was the first time that I’d seen him speak. Comes across as a bright and nice guy. I hope he does well, for his sake and for the Braves.

By Daybed Wagmoe

March 11, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

Renegator — I’m pretty sure it is being televised by Fox SportSouth

By BT

March 11, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

Televised on Fox Sports South tonight.

By Eric from MO

March 11, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

Sniper,” 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.” Whats to say you dont have another collapse?

By taylor s

March 11, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

the game is on tv tonight. eather fox sports net or sports south.

By Hammy the Brave

March 11, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Do you think it possible that both Boyer and Resop could make the bullpen, leaving Yates out? I’ll admit I like their fb/curveball combo better than Yates’ fb/slider combo. Also, I believe he has more problems with lefties than them.

In the backup catcher race, who do you see as more of a threat to Lopez, Pena(Is his defense really improved?) or C. Miller(Will he hit enough?)?

With all this discussion about Thorman’s strengths(such as they are) and weaknesses( they are legion), don’t you think it would be wise for FW to trade for another team’s roadblocked 1B power prospect to put at Richmond, as a better “backup” plan to losing Tex? KC( Huber), Detroit(lefty at AA last yr), or Colorado, come to mind as trade options.

I’m intrigued to hear these rumors of trading for J. Rivera of the Angels, something I’d suggested earlier. However, I find it hard to believe you’d be ok with him as a bench player, since he has no experience that I know of, at 1B. It makes much more sense to put him in LF, try to sign him longterm(if he produces), and trade M. Diaz, since I consider him a much better run producer than Diaz(what we need to pay attention to, if Tex leaves).

On to the bench. I believe strongly that FW should trade the Bravos excess for both a righty and a lefty power veteran for the bench( assuming Thorman is dealt- he brings precious little as a bench player, IMO). Guys like the aforementioned W. Helms( 157 games played at 1B, also plays 3B, kills lefties, good ph); J. Baker( good power potential, can play 1b/3B, stuck in multi-player 2b battle in Colorado), Morgan Ensberg (still has power potential, and if J. Rivera is being tried at 1B, Ensberg sure should be able to handle it, as a 3B’er. From the lefty side, I’d like Borcherd to be given a real shot by Bobby to try yo learn 1B. What do you hear from Terry P. about Borcherd- has he cut his swing down, could he be a more consistent hitter off the bench, than he’s been in the majors so far? Also, could Sean Greene be coaxed out of retirement, to be a veteran lefty off the bench( can play LF/RF and had at least 1 full yr. at 1B)?

Wat say yea, DOB?

Hammy the Brave

By Daybed Wagmoe

March 11, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

Mark Fanxeira:

True, Maddux did get the calls. You’re right about that.

0 of the 338 walks were intentional (just went back to baseball-reference to look it up). I’ve never heard of a manager or a pitcher that has ever, on a full count, called for an intentional walk. Who would want to waste 5+ effortful pitches on a batter only to then intentionally walk him?

By KC

March 11, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Renegator: Yes, it is. Either Sports South or Fox Sports Net… can’t remember which.

By Renegator

March 11, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

Excellent.

Thanks guys.

By Drew

March 11, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

**Music and (Braves) baseball…I really don’t think there’s a better combo out there other than chicken wings and cold beer…anybody agree?

This is the best Braves blog by far gentlemen and ladies…wish I was down there in the sun puffin on a stogie with you Dave

PS-remind me never to come back to Dayton OH on business**

By sean in columbus,ga

March 11, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Hi David, I always look forward to your post. It’s fun to guess what may be the opening day roster. I was wondering what you that of my guess. Pitchers 1.Hudson,2.Glavine,3.Smoltz,4.Hampton,5.Jurrjens. Bullpen.6. Soriano 7.Moylan 8.W.Ohman,9.T.Yates,10.M.Acosta,11.Bennett,11.Boyer 1ST.12.Teixeria,13.Thorman(only because the braves dont have any power from the bench on the left side). 2nd.14. Johnson,15.Prado, SS.16.Escobar,3RD.17.Jones,18.Lillbridge,19.LF.Diaz. CF.20.Kotsay, RF.21.Francoeur,22.Lopez,23.Anderson,24.?.25?

By Choppinmama

March 11, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

DOB: as TBravesFan commented, we were out at 2:30, peering over the palms and condos to see the sky light up, but nada. I stayed up instead of setting the alarm, so I’m expecting to experience a sinking spell about the 7th inning tonight!

Sure hope the Nats bring Orr, Langy and Estrada over, just for old time’s sake, and of course, I’m looking forward to greeting Pat C. And…… my first view of Tommy in the correct uni.

By TennesseePaul

March 11, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

chrisklob: Missed the video but gathered as much from DOB’s fabulous reporting and Bowman’s crafty copying skills… (is Bowman a lefty?). But anywho, that’s where the premise of my posts was coming from. That statement from Jair and the analysis of both Jair and James careers.

By Wayne in Utah

March 11, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

I hope the game is on XM tonight, as I am “on the road again”!

As for Thorman, if you can’t get anything for him, or you can’t get a serious upgrade for your backup first sacker, then you gotta keep him for a while. Who knows, he might actually start to hit???

The Braves could always try to sneak him under the waiver wire in late April/May. A pinch hitter and backup firstbaseman/left fielder is probably not as crucial in the first 6 weeks as he will be later on in the summer.

By McFann

March 11, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

30th?

By bill

March 11, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Daybed Wagmoe:

Your stats on Maddux understate how often he throws a strike with a full count. The stats do not keep track of the number of 3-2 pitches thrown that result in foul balls. What you’ve reported is that 23% of the batters that get to a full count with Maddux end up getting a BB. It might have taken several pitches to work the walk out of Maddux. Similarly, some of the outs are from at-bats that had several 3-2 pitches. By definition, all of these at-bats had multiple strikes thrown while the count was 3-2.

By Choppinmama

March 11, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

McFann: I have the sign packed, but unless DOB does some serious ‘splainin’ to the broadcasters, I doubt it will be mentioned. I’ll try and jump on this borrowed desktop tonite after the game and let you all know if Chipper saw our little token of thanks.

By DAP

March 11, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

i studied communications in college. an example or perception and schemas in one of my text book sais this (general interpretation):

“in baseball, there are three kinds of umpires. one says ‘some are balls, and some are strikes, and i call ‘em like they are.’ one says ‘some are balls, and some are strikes, and i call ‘em like i see ‘em.

but the last type of umpire says ‘some are balls and some are strikes, but they aint nuthin til i call ‘em’!”

By Random

March 11, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

Steve McP—

Great minds DO think alike!

;-)

Epinephrine: “B Pena has snowball’s chance in hell of making this team. It has absolutely nothing to do with Escobar.”

Well, we’ll just have to wait and see, won’t we?

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Wat say yea, DOB? Hammy the Brave

About which of the numerous points/questions you made am I supposed to comment on? (keeping in mind that we only have about a half-hour to devote to your post)

By David

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

I’ve been sucked in! Long time Braves fan, but this is the first season I’ve gotten into reading this blog….at first I checked it a couple of times each week for new news…..now I am addicted and find myself looking for a new one every morning!!!

By bravesfaninCT

March 11, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

what is the best way for me to watch the braves this season? the XM radio just isn`t cutting it for me anymore. is the mlb.tv deal the most viable option? comcast offers the extra inning package, but it costs a fortune. does satellite carry braves games or will they be blacked out?

By Bawlmer Brave

March 11, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

I’m the same way David. Virgin voyeur on the blog this year. My “Refresh” button gets quie a workout while I’m at the office these days. I can’t wait for the season to start. I’m a long-time Braves fan, but I’m more excited about this season than the last 10 or so. Should be an exciting/fun team to watch, regardless of predictions or “sure-thing” final standings.

By Weldon

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

@ Daybed: Interesting post overall. But a little piece of minutia on the 3-2 intentional walk as I just saw one last night. Runners on 1st and 2nd in the 10th inning with one out. The 2-2 pitch was wild, so they decided to just go ahead and walk him to keep the DP in order. Rare, sure, but it happens. In case you care how it turned out, the next batter hit a single just past the glove of the second baseman. Go Cocks!

By Lew

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

Sniper-You keep making the assumption that you WILL get a full season from Pedro and Sanchez. Not too sure this is all that safe an assumption.

Sanchez has just missed more than an entire year. Pedro has missed closer to 18 months by the time the season starts. Neither has not pitched a complete season since 2005.

This leads to two questions 1. Why do you think they will pitch a full season now, all of a sudden (and don’t EVEN mention that Pedro threw 28 whole innings last year)? 2. What exactly, do you consider a whole season? Maybe if you think 130-140IP is a full season for Pedro, but if I were you, I sure wouldn’t count on that 180+ that I keep hearing mentioned.

By The Man

March 11, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

I would not bet on Thorman’s average improving much this season. He will get very little playing time this year with Tex at first. Don’t see how an occasional pinch hit will help him develop much as a overall hitter. However on the positive side, he bring the ability to provide the Braves with that occasional pinch-hit homer. Will a 1st baseman really be that hard to find if we need one next season!

By richbrave

March 11, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

SNIPER69:

Yours of 1:47p.m. “I can’t see how anyone can pick the Phils to finish ahead of the Mets”…Well, Sniper, you wouldn’t being a METS FAN. But as you so often point out here when we post such incredulity about the Braves, others see things differently. So, go suck on a lemon sour-puss.

By hammy the brave

March 11, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Are you saying I’m a little too verbose about my Bravos, I’m hurt?(just kidding)

Ok, can you comment on my Boyer/Resop/Yates and trading for lefty and righty power bats for the bench questions?

Hammy the Brave

By KC

March 11, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

Sniper: I agree with you… barring major injury trouble in NY, there’s no way the Phillies finish ahead of the Mets (or the Braves).

The Mets have Santana, and (Mets fans HOPE) a full season from Pedro. They are a much improved team.

The Braves have an entirely new rotation after Smoltz and Hudson. Glavine, Hampton, and Jurrjens will replace a combination of 3/4/5 starters last year that posted a collective ERA of about 6.30… so that’s a HUGE improvement.

Assuming Lidge gets/stays healthy, the Phillies improved their team by adding Lidge and moving Myers back to the rotation. But they are nowere NEAR as improved as either the Braves or the Mets.

Phili simply doesn’t have the pitching to hang wither their division rivals late into Sept.

By OrlandoFan

March 11, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

DOB I responded to your question about the notes on the other blog, as requested.

By richbrave

March 11, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

METS FANS:

Fired the “Editor” of your Mets Blog - Metropolitan Man 1. That sorry azz in draggin’ you down. No wonder you come over here to get some fresh air and vision of reality.

By richbrave

March 11, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

DAVE:

Yeah, Dave. Is Boyer still sulking, or is the real lefty standin’ tall in Atlanta? Think he’ll make it, and if not what’s to do? He’ll NEVER clear waivers.

By Steve McP

March 11, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Random, clearly you too are a very wise man!

By The Man

March 11, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

Phili simply doesn’t have the pitching to hang wither their division rivals late into Sept.

KC - Agree completely. It would not even surprise me to see the Phillies in a tight race for 3rd place with the Nationals by season’s end.

By BravesFanInRockies

March 11, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

CT,

I’m afraid if you live outside the Southeast you’ll have to suck it up and pay for a premium package. I was tempted to get mlb.tv, but since I already have that 37-inch flat-panel screen, I’m going to pay the extra dough for the extra innings package.

It’s what — $180 a season? That ain’t cheap. But it is cheaper than going to sports bars 2-3 times a week. Plus it’s better for your waistline and your liver and your family to not spend all your spare time in bars.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Just heard a great one from the inimitable Earl Weaver, from a guy who covered Orioles when he managed.

Outfielder, Pat Kelly, who was a committed Christian, said to Weaver, “Earl, aren’t you glad I walk with the Lord?”

Weaver replied, “I’d rather you walk with the bases loaded.”

By Lew

March 11, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

KC-And yesterday the Phillies announced that although he would continue pitching, Adam Eaton has a herniated disc and arthritis in his back. Granted his plus 6 ERA last year was nothing to write home about, but it certainly does not strengthen what is already a weak spot.

By DAP

March 11, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

KC barring major injury trouble in NY, there’s no way the Phillies finish ahead of the Mets (or the Braves).

you should read this

here a sentence from that article

At last count, 17 Mets were nursing injuries of one kind or another, and only two position players and half of the catching platoon are actually capable of playing.

thus my prediction that the mets finish third.

the phils can afford to have 3 pitchers with high four ERAs because of that offense.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

Boyer isn’t sulking, he’s pitching quite well. But who’s “the real lefty”?

Gonna be some tough decisions, because Resop throws right below 100 mph and, as Bobby said, “You don’t want to lose an arm like that.”

But as another Brave told me, some guys are asking each other why Resop has bounced around with that great arm of his. Usually there’s a reason….

By Lew

March 11, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

The Man-Yes, the Phillies have sever problems in the pitching department-both starting and relievers, but NEVER discount that offense.

Don’t know if Pedro Feliz will fill the void left by Rowand, but he definitely shores up their third base problem. He could easily hit 30 HR and drive in 100 in that little stadium. Their offense is quite dangerous.

By Lew

March 11, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

BravesFan In Rockies-At least MLB Extra Innings gives you a $20 break by signing up the first week and then breaks it up over four payments. That helps a lot.

By DAP

March 11, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

The Man It would not even surprise me to see the Phillies in a tight race for 3rd place with the Nationals by season’s end.

did you watch this team at the end of last year? this team has heart and can score a ton of runs last year. theyve got three players who are MVP candidates about every year, and lots of awesome supporting players. they’re players would all have to have andruw jones-slumps to be fighting for third place.

By Lew

March 11, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

DAP-It would be great if the Phillies HAD three pitchers with high four ERA;s. Last year, Jamie Moyer’s was in the high fives and Eaton’s was in the sixes. High fours would be a major improvement.

By KC

March 11, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

DAP: Well… I did say “barring major injury trouble”.

I would define that as any of their top-4 starters or Wagner missing substantial time.

I think they can overcome injuries to position players if their pitching is healthy.

By Random

March 11, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

McFann: “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.”

Go for it!! Math, that is.

My niece is majoring in math at Belmont U (Nashville) — she was just accepted for a 5-week intern program this summer at George Washington U.

(Don’t mean to brag — well, yeah, I do, but just a little.)

8-)

(PS: I took some Latin in HS, too, and majored in Lingusitics @ UGA/UNC-CH. I’d recommend it highly.)

By Braveheart

March 11, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

why do mets fans keep talking about duaner sanchez like he was some special pitcher?

pitchers like duaner sanchez are like duane reades in new york.

there are hundreds of ‘em.

By MGL

March 11, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

Dan Kolb just got the save in the BoSOX win over the Mets today.

By richbrave

March 11, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

DAVID O”BRIEN:

I’m picking DIAZ as the batting champ in the National League IF he gets enough bats to qualify. The dude is unconsciously cold as a hitter. Man!

By ncscoots

March 11, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

You guys are awfully quick to write off the Phils pitching. Hamels and Myers at the top are strong as anybody (assuming health and innings, as with all pitchers), Kendrick could be the real deal (despite his spring troubles while he works his secondary pitches), and ERA on the back-end is not as meaningful because of their offense. If they play .500 with whatever combination of 4 and 5 starters they throw out there, and they’ll be around at crunch time. Their bats make up for a lot.

I agree they may not have as much margin for error as Braves and Mets, but they may not need much.

By geauxbraves2000

March 11, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Pardon my ignorance of the “waiver wire”, but on the subject of Thorman, could the Braves put him on the wire and pull him back if he gets claimed?

By Random

March 11, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

DOB: “some guys are asking each other why Resop has bounced around with that great arm of his. Usually there’s a reason….”

And not only that — consider that for the Braves to have claimed him off waivers from the Angels, twenty-three (23) other teams had to take a pass on him, including the entire AL. (I think.)

By DAP

March 11, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Lew Last year, Jamie Moyer’s was in the high fives and Eaton’s was in the sixes. High fours would be a major improvement

good point, but the phils won 89 games and the division with those pitchers. now throw in meyers and i see no reason they shouldnt at least repeat that (89 wins, while i predicted they win 90) i dont think lidge will be great, but i dont think he will be bad enough to do them in.

KC I think they can overcome injuries to position players if their pitching is healthy.

you could be right, but i dont think the mets have the guts that the phils have to overcome injuries to position players. one of their big guys is already down, alou. i think they will have trouble scoring right off the bat, and if beltran, or delgado go down (before or after alou gets back) i dont think these guys are mentally tough enough to win alot of games.

then again, like i said, you could be right. i suppose we’ll find out, hunh? :-)

By flange1

March 11, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Hammy,

Not to jump in for DOB, but I don’t see the Braves dropping Yates for Boyer/Resop/Ring. Yates has never been my favorite, but he is a known commodity and Resop/Ring is not. I don’t disagree with your thoughts on these guys at all.

I also don’t think that FW will make whole sale changes to the bench (like trading for a lefty and righty power hitter). I think Javy will make the team as a backup catcher and right handed power hitter and if Thorman makes the team, then you have left handed power.

My perspective would be to acquire a good pinch hitter whether he hits for power of not. Those guys are not always easy to find.

We had one in D. Ward, but let him go…..

By David O'Brien

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

geauxbraves, you’ve got to be kidding, right? Or you really didn’t see the discussion above, and yesterday? if not, look back, because i can’t keep answering the question. no, they can’t pull him back is the short answer.

By TJ

March 11, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

ncscoots, you beat me to the punch … but I’ll go ahead and post.

Folks, keep in mind that the same small ballpark that inflates the Phillies’ hitting stats also inflates their pitchers’ eras. I think Hamels/Meyers/Kendrick is a pretty good top 3 (though we’ll see if Kendrick doesn’t have a sophomore slump). After that, it’s pretty slim pickins, but all they need is about a 5.50 era out of those spots and they’ll be tough.

I don’t like their bullpen at all, though. That might be their biggest weakness. We’ll just have to see what Lidge can do; JC Romero had a great era, but 25 walks to 31 K’s tells me he’s living on the edge. Madson’s not bad… but after that???

It’s amazing how consistently they have gotten off to bad starts over the past few years, and then come on strong. If they come out of the gate well (don’t fall 10 games back in June), they’ll be formidable come September.

By BravesFanInRockies

March 11, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Lew,

The early bird discount and the payment plan do indeed help. I suppose if I subscribed now I could get a few ST games when I’m not watching March Madness …

By Random

March 11, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

TOO FUNNY!!! — “Lingusitics”

Linguistics, of course.

By richbrave

March 11, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

flange1:

Rightous post. Always want that rare pitch-hitter who can wear out an opposing pitcher, go deep in counts, and get hits when the game’s in the balance. And you’re spot-on, they’re hard to come by.

By BillsNV

March 11, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

DOB, If we were to trade Thorman wouldn’t his new team be in the same boat as the Braves? Basically they would need to keep him on the roster or pass him thru waivers to put him into their minors. That would seem to make it hard to trade him to a real good team like the Angels.

Thanks for all the great information!

By geauxbraves2000

March 11, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Sorry DOB, my bad, I should’ve read.

I’m at work taking a break and the thought just crossed my mind. Thanks for the answer though.

Geaux Braves!!

By WarParty

March 11, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

Nice information here. VERY nice and it is appreciated DOB. I love following the Braves even more when I get the insider type skinner in these pages.

By McFann

March 11, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

Ah! Back to the blog…

Choppinmama—

I was somewhat kidding about the sign, but U never Kno…There was that article about Chipper blogging with us on the AJC back when it first happened…

Random—

You like math? I sure do! My brother doesn’t, heh heh. But he likes history and I do not…unless it’s baseball history, of course.

Latin’s great, because you cann learn so much about where words come from with it. (But then again…where do the Latin words come from…)

: >

By Nate

March 11, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

I’m not sure why everybody is so quick to throw away Thorman. Yeah he had a horrible year last year. But, he improved in the second half. And he’s got that trend of improving in his second year at various minor league levels. Plus, we’re talking about a back-up first baseman here. He’s like a spare tire. You hope you never have to use him, but you don’t want to drive around without one, and its not where you want to spend your money.

I’m much more concerned that the Braves don’t really have anybody at 3rd who can give them 30-50 good starts. Chipper is much more of a liability than Tex.

By Bravosimos

March 11, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

DOB,

You should check out The Black Keys if you haven’t already. A fairly new group. They had a song on the Black Snake Moan soundtrack that was phenominal called, When the Lights Go Out.

By McFann

March 11, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah! Game’s on FSN South tonight at 7:05!!

Sure y’all knew that, but just in case…

By Nick

March 11, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

I don’t think this was posted elsewhere (forgive me if it was), but DOB do you know the lineup and pitchers for tonight?

By DonRose

March 11, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

I cannot understand why everyone is so high on the Mets. Let’s compare the Braves and Mets position by position: Starting Pitching 1. Smoltz (15-16 wins)- Santana (17-18 wins)- slight edge to Mets in regular season but not in post season 2. Hudson (15-16 wins) - Matinez (13-14 wins)- slight edge to Braves since Martinez is coming off injury 3. Glavine (14-15 wins) - Maine (15-16 wins) - very slight edge to Mets but this is tenuous at best 4. Hampton (Yes, I am assuming that he pitches and wins 12-13 games) - Perez (who knows, when he is good he is very good when bad …) - edge to Mets due to unknown on Hampton but if healthy then edge to Barves 5. Jurrgens (12-13 wins) - Duque (11-12 wins) slight edge to Braves due to Duque altering style etc

Bullpen - fairly even but have to give Mets slight edge for Waggoner even though I do not trust him in critical situations

1st base - Braves edge 2nd base - Braves SS - Mets 3rd - pretty close but I would take Chipper over Wright, so edge Braves LF - Braveds due to Alou injuries and limited playing time CF - Mets RF - Braves Catcher - Braves

Bench - ? Manager - Braves

Overall I would have to say that if you asked me to pick one of the two teams as they are I would go with the Braves. I believe that they are better in position players and stack up very well in pitching

By Bravosimos

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

And DOB,

My dad ripped me a new one, thanks for telling me to tell him to get to the park at Sarasota at 9:30. They wouldn’t let him in ‘till 11. He asked me, ” Is O’Brien your sports writer or your bartender, cause he doesn’t know what the f**k he’s talking about!” I found the whole ordeal pretty funny, actually.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 11, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

O’Brien , here is the answer to why Chris Resop is already with his third team.

He only became a full-time pitcher in mid-2003 (Resop was originally drafted as an OF by the Marlins). Command has been a problem for him so far. He got hurt last season with the Angels (triceps injury to his pitching arm) and the Halo’s thought they could sneak Resop through waivers.

Somehow I don’t think the Braves picked him off waivers , put him on the 40 man roster while releasing Chad Paronto , fully knowing Resop was out of options unless they believed that he would make a valuable addition to the bullpen.

Resop does have 39 saves during his minor league career and possesses a closer’s mindset. Resop throws hard (98-99 MPH) and mixes in a strong curveball along with his changeup.

Picking this kid off waivers was a steal for the Braves. If he is healthy and learns to harness that blazing fastball , Resop projects as a strong sixth or seventh inning set up man.

By BA

March 11, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

Wow, that was almost as good as hearing it in the radio, DOB! I’m honored at the selection. I’ll admit, I resisted at first, but this blog has got me hooked. Can I get a glass of that kool-aid? I wish they would expand the rosters, because I’m going to hate seeing these kids get sent down, and there’s just too many of them. I wonder, who will be the Melvin Nieves in the next big trade? Or the other way around, who will be the next Wainwright? For that matter, who is the next Frenchy? I think Lopez has all but won his job, so that’s one less spot. I’m not crazy about Thorman but Bobby loves power. I like Anderson already. I hope Cox keeps at least two lefties, preferably Ridgeway and Ohman. As I get older, spring training is more exciting every year, is it time for the game yet?!

By DonRose

March 11, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

By Coach

Good information. Thank you.

By Murphy

March 11, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

On Thorman: I posted this a few days ago, but there was some article that came out last year about Thorman being compared to Justin Morneau with the Twins. Apparently thier numbers were comperable at this point and that is why they hoped Thorman would follow the 2nd year plan that DOB talks about above.
I really hope Resop is as nasty in the regular season as he is in ST. That would be awesome! Both Smoltz and Hudson would have competed for the Cy Young award last year if it had not been for the bullpen.

By Jon

March 11, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave I might have missed it, not sure, but would you mind telling me what would happen to Thorman if he were claimed by another team on the waiver wire? Thanks.

note - this was a joke and only a joke, no innocent bystanders and blog specialists were hurt in the making of this joke. Please carry on about your normal business

But seriously Dave, could you explain the waiver wire procedure.

again, see above note

;)

By Lew

March 11, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

Scoots-Aren’t you one of those always yelling about K per IP? kendrick struck out all of 49 batters in 121 innings pitched. Just how long do you really think his 3.87 ERA will last in Philly’s Little league stadium.

Not to mention that Lidge has already undergone two knee surgeries since last season. Do you really think that Flash Gordon will regain the form from about ten years ago when he was in his mid 30’s? It wouldn’t surprise me in the least to see Myers back in the pen, or the Phillies will lose a lot of games in the late innings.

By rd

March 11, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

Dave,

Enjoyed the story on Jordan Schafer, but it was scarily similar to two stories of phenoms from past eras. Both, like Schafer, were outfielders … Barry Bonnell (from the 70’s) and Brad Komminsk (from the 80’s, I think). I remember Eddie Haas, long-time coach and short-time manager, saying about Bonnell in the AJC “He reminds me of Joe DiMaggio.”

Both Bonnell and Komminsk had great numbers to go with apparently great skills through AAA, but didn’t last beyond a few weak years in the bigs.

Point is, Schaefer is 21 and hasn’t played above A ball. I haven’t seen him play and I hope he turns out to be all he and his hummer promise to be. But if history is any guide, I’m hoping Kotsay stays healthy all year and maybe next year, too.

By BA

March 11, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

The only way Myers is going back to the pen is if he needs to rough up his old lady where nobody will see! Let’s see, Braves/Mets comparisons: Jones/Wright- guy who hits the Mets, guy who can’t hit the Braves. Diaz/Alou- .300 hitter, guy who pees on his own hands. Hudson/Pedro- guy who donates to charity, guy who fights chickens. Need we continue? At this second, Pedro is busy making up an injury to avoid the all star game. The Mtes collapsed like Mike Piazza’s Judy Garland dollhouse last year and I promise you, they won’t be a factor this year.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

Soriano just threw a bullpen without pain, said he’ll ask to throw in a game in a couple of days….

Cuts will be announced after game or tomorrow….

Just watched the most impressive BP since Mark McGwire — Wily Mo Pena. Absolute thunder in that monster’s bat. He was hitting ball after ball off the top of the scoreboard or over the entire thing. Hit a LINE DRIVE that struck just beneath the clock. With a slight wind BLOWING IN….

Bravosimos, guess that’s what you get for asking a sportswriter what time to get to the ballpark. Your dad sounds like my kind of guy, though. Still feisty, huh?

By Yars

March 11, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

Does anyone know yet if those 50+ games that are on PeachTree TV will be televised for those that live in the South, but do not get Peachtree TV? Any truth to Fox Sports South or SportSouth possibly broadcasting them?

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

Gotta love it: Afternoon Delight playing on the stadium PA. Listen to those lyrics closely….

By QueensMetsFan

March 11, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

BA - mets won’t be a factor?

Really? You mean the team that finished ahead of you the past two seasons? The team that swept you AT HOME, beating your two ‘aces’ in must win games during the stretch run? The same Mets team beat your team that had Chipper, Tex, Escobar and Johson in the the line-up you love to keep chirping about? The same team Mets team which improved itself by adding the best pitcher in baseball won’t be a factor?

Dude, I want whatever cool-aid you’re drinking. Give the Mets a little more respect than that.

By DonCoburleone

March 11, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

Everyone says that if you give Wily Mo Pena 550 AB’s in a season he’s a lock to hit 35+ bombs (and strikeout 180+ times)… Only question is can he draw enough walks and get enough hits (therefore increase his OBP) enough to make him a power hitter who strikes out a ton but still has real value (Ala Adam Dunn).

One thing is for sure, that young outfield for the Nationals (Dukes, Milledge, Pena) has the potential to be the best outfield in baseball in another 2-3 years. Of course, it also has the potential to blow up in their face BIG TIME.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 11, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

Speaking of Komminsk. If what the AJC has reported proves to be accurate about Scott Thorman , the Braves must believe that Thorman is the second coming of Brad Komminsk and not Ryan Klesko.

When considering that Scott Thorman is a former 1st round pick (drafted 30th overall by the Braves in 2000) and that the Braves don’t seem to have a more qualified back up at 1B , this speaks volumes about Thorman being on the trading block.

He is a 6-3 left handed dead fastball hitter with monster power. Can’t hit lefties (career .181 BA) and has problems with the breaking ball. His 19 walks and 91 strikeout ratio is abysmal.

Thorman’s plate discipline is all but AWOL. He did show some improvement defensively last year around 1B and can play LF in a pinch.

But , when considering that Bobby Cox gave Julio Franco a look at 1B before the Teixeira trade , it sort of gives me the idea that Thorman doesn’t have a future in Atlanta.

I doubt that the Braves could get much in a trade for Thorman. However , they did pawn Oscar Villarreal off on the Astros for Josh Anderson.

By brian

March 11, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

back to an earlier debate and please remember I am not the one who suggested Tyler Hansbrough is the best ever in the ACC….

Tyler Hansbrough was named unanimously to the 1st team All ACC team for the 3rd straight year. Tyler is the 3rd person ever to be unanimous 1st team All ACC for 3 years. David Thompson was the 2nd and some Duke player I had not heard of (I do try to block them from my memory but this guy was pre Coach K and pre Giminiski) was the 1st.

Still not in the same “league” as Thompson but quite an honor nonetheless.

Also sporting news player of the year. Tyler will be the 8th Tar Heel to have his jersey retired. That also is quite an honor. That list really is a Who’s Who

By OrlandoFan

March 11, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

RD, great note about Bonnell and Komminsk (boy, was he going to be the savior!). Bonnell was so much like DiMaggio they moved him to third base to make room for — who? — Brian Asselstine.

By 18 Wheels of Love

March 11, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

Afternoon Delight…reminds me of that GREAT Arrested Development episode!!

By BA

March 11, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

The Mets get no respect here! I have no respect for a franchise that has some of the worst booger eating fans this side of Philly. An ancient team of third world washed up dirtbags. Queens mets fan, you’re just mad because you were one of those girls that David Cone roughed up his suspect in front of! Hey, don’t throw any batteries at Chipper this summer when he’s jacking homers in your toilet bowl of a stadium this summer! You mouthbreather! Santana’s not the best pitcher in baseball, he’s just the best pitcher in baseball who grew up on a dirt floor. The Mutts will finish fourth this year. Absolutely not a factor, even if they bring Piazza back to troll the secret bath houses of New York! Even if Randolph grows a spine.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 11, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

Dave O’Brien’s um….. mental problem.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNzzjq2dBaM

By woogidy

March 11, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

Willy Mo Pena’s impressive BP performance would be one reason not to get too excited about Tyler Flowers.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

Coach, I talked to another person today about the Juan Rivera matter, someone who should know, and he agreed with you.

Well, not really agreed with you, since he has no idea what you said or who you are. But anyway, he said he’d be very surprised if it happened.

So don’t get those Braves jerseys with “Rivera” on the back just yet. Although I also heard a rumor of Braves interest in Mariano Rivera …

Just kidding.

By Wedger

March 11, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Did you get a chance to talk to Edgar?

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this

Got the big lineup in there tonight:

1. K.J., 2B; 2. Escobar, SS; 3. Hoss, 3B; 4. Teixeira, 1B; 5. Francoeur, RF; 6. Diaz, LF; 7. Kotsay, CF; 8. Javy, C (okay, almost the big lineup); 9. Glavine.

By BA

March 11, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

Isn’t this the same Rivera that stole Jeter’s stuff from the clubhouse? Theft? Sounds more like a Mets kind of player…

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

Wedger, you’re talking about Edgar Renteria, right? Yes, when Detroit was here and when we were over there, talked to him briefly in both places.

By Patrick

March 11, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Couldn’t this be a regular lineup? Didn’t you say you though Javy might be Glavine’s catcher if he made the team…

By David O'Brien

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

Great catch by Diaz crashing against left-field wall, a near-homer by Felipe Lopez on a 3-2 pitch to start the game.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

Patrick, I didn’t say that, but yes, he could be. Was just talking about that with someone else in the pressbox. Couple reasons it would make sense: Glavine’s a lefty, so base-stealers wouldn’t be able to get a quick start (Javy’s arm isn’t anything to write home about, I can assure you), and Glavine is very much a control pitcher who won’t have Javy chasing too many in the dirt. Oh, and Glavine can call his own game.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

Yunel singles to left with one out, brings up Chipper. John Patterson toeing the slab for Los Nationales.

By 234234

March 11, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

Resop had tendenitis for a few years and finally had the bone spurs removed and now has a clean bill of health… This will be the start of only his 4th year of pitching at the professional level…

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

Nice piece of hitting by Chipper on single through the right side on 3-2 count, right through the hole created when Escobar took off for second…

By Greg in TN

March 11, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

Evening folks…

Tonight I’m with the denizens watching and listening online as FSN in Tennessee is showing the Predators.

DOB, are you getting any radio work in tonight with Pete?

By Patrick

March 11, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this

Another hit for Yunel, no surprise there!

Thanks for the updates DOB!

By alabamasmith

March 11, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

DOB - Any idea why it’s bottom of first and the game is not on FSNSouth?

By Jesse

March 11, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

Dave, you sure know how to live. A cigar before the game, who could ask for more. Thanks for all the insight and keep the good work coming. My only hope is that all the braves can stay healthy this year. If all goes well we should see another memorable October.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

Runners on the corners, Tex works 3-2 count, fouls next pitch back, Francoer waiting on deck…

And Tex takes a hook on 3-2 pitch. Don’t think he was looking for that AT ALL. Goes down with bat on shoulder.

Francoeur takes a strike on 1-0 pitch…

By alabamasmith

March 11, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this

DOB or anyone else - anyone know why tonights game is not on FSN South yet or what the problem is?

By Josh Fanderson

March 11, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this

Gaudy strikeout numbers are nice sometimes, but not necessarily the most efficient way to record outs.

2:33, do you mean gaudy, as in excessively showy? Like, how garish of that pitcher to throw those gaudy K’s up? You are a picky little fan aren’t you? Jair is good and I hope he’s in the starting rotation, but to diminish power-throwing strike out pitchers is a bit sensitive and limited. Don’t you think?

“Pitching to contact” is a term that I don’t care for but allow me to parse a bit. Mark Wohlers, Kevin McGlinchy and Kyle Farnsworth certainly “pitched to contact”. Trouble was, the contact sent those little baseballs right out of the park and lost playoff games.

Good pitchers have one game plan: get batters out by whatever means possible, not necessarily by allowing contact. Even Jair strikes out batters. He’ll strike out more, or find himself in Richmond.

Some truly gaudy pitchers: Nolan Ryan, Roger Clemens, Randy Johnson, Bert Blyleven, Tom Seaver, Don Sutton, Gaylord Perry, Walter Johnson, Phil Niekro, Greg Maddux, Ferguson Jenkins, Bob Gibson, Curt Schilling and Pedro Martínez. How gauche.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

After Frenchy ended that inning with a chopper 4-6 up the middle, Nats have two on with one out in top of second, on an E6 and a walk.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

Yunel ends inning with an unassisted DP after keeping a grounder himself, stepping on second and firing a bullet to first. Probably should have flipped it to 2B, but that gun allowed him to do it himself.

By the way, that’s three E’s in the past 4-5 games for Escobar, all on relatively routine plays. That’s the only thing he’s got to work on, making the routine plays….

By Greg in TN

March 11, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

alabamasmith,

If you’re close to the TN border, you’re likely getting Nashville Predators hockey instead. Same deal here in East TN. We’re just close enough to their coverage area to get it instead of the Braves game.

By David

March 11, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this

No Braves game in AL as well … who wants to watch hockey in the South … this is going to be a long season with FSM !!!!!!!

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

Rather surreal moment just now in the pressbox. Sitting here typing away on the blog when I hear behind me, “So this is the where it looks so easy…”

Turn around and John Smoltz is standing behind me, in street clothes, having just come from the TV booth.

By stephen jones

March 11, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

how long is it going to take for whoever is pitching to javy to complain like maddux did? i never liked the way javy sets up and jumps around.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this

With one out, Jvy just struck out looking at another big curve inside, nearly an unhittable pitch. If ump’s going to call that…

Diaz was on second at the time. Reached on an error and advanced on, I kid you not, a stolen base.

Now Diaz advances to third on wild pitch with Glavine batting…

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this

Glavine 6-3 to end inning.

By uga-brave

March 11, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

got to be a little concerned with escobar’s defense. almost made his second error of the game on the dp grounder.

got a lot of ground ball pitchers so esco and johnson have to be better.

By uga-brave

March 11, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

escobar throws one in the dugout.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

Glavine threw just 13 pitches each of the first two innings. But now he’s walked the pitcher Patterson with one out in third.

Lopez to bat.

Hard grounder up middle, Kelly makes nice backhand stop, flips to Yunel for first out, but Yunel bounces throw past Tex. E6 allows runner to advance to second.

That’s four errors in Escobar’s past four games, all here at Dark Star.

By BravesFanInRockies

March 11, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

Didn’t Diaz’s batting stats last year look a lot like Paul Molitor’s? (Except for the steals, though DOB suggests his baserunning could be OK too.

Not bad company, if you ask me.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this

This E ends up costing Glavine a run, when Boone doubles to center. Run is earned, because can’t assume a double play, so Yunel’s error only allowed runner to advance to second.

By Greg in TN

March 11, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

BMac is in the radio booth with Pete at the moment.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

Actually, the replay showed that Escobar’s throw wasn’t in dirt, but just a couple inches up and simply went through webbing of Tex’s glove.

E6 changed to E3 just now by scorer.

Gotta give an E to someone because runner advanced, though in truth it should be equipment failure, right? Hey, some rules don’t necessarily make sense, but gotta justify him going to second on something other than E-glove manufacturer.

By Niels Boor

March 11, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

How ironic and/or embarrassing -– Frank Wren in the booth, praising Kotsay’s defensive prowess, as Bret Boone lofts one over his head.

Well, at least he hit the cut-off man, like Frank said he could.

By stephen jones

March 11, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

i think the errors are caused by the annoying sound system or the majority of fans that are from the other team.

By Greg in TN

March 11, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

Good point, DOB. A tough luck error on Tex to be sure.

By Reid in EAV

March 11, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

“E-Mizuno”

By northBeach Scott

March 11, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

No error on that last throw by Yunel. The ball burst through Tex’s glove webbing. Should simply be a fielders choice, making the run earned.

By Hunter

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

DOB- Two questions for you. 1) Which coach works with the infielders on fielding? Would TP ever get out there with Yunel as an ex left-side infielder or would that be seen as intruding on the fielding coach? 2) Anything you see to worry long-term about re: Glavine’s performance tonight or do you see this as a an inconsequential preseason game?

Thanks for the insight, it is much appreciated.

By David O'Brien

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

Changing the E6 to E3 in top of third makes run against Glavine unearned, for those of you scoring at home (and if you’re scoring at home, well, no one should ever question your “fandom.”)

By Josh Fanderson

March 11, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

How ironic and/or embarrassing -– Frank Wren in the booth, praising Kotsay’s defensive prowess, as Bret Boone lofts one over his head.

What’s your gripe or do you just embarrass easily?Andruw could not have gotten to that deep gapper. Frank Wren is a pleasure to listen to. Good strategy and articulate. Seems like a good guy.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

Nice recovery for Glavine after giving up double to Wily Mo Monster. Struck out next two, Elijah Dukes and Jesus Flores.

Yes, he struck out Elijah and Jesus.

By northBeach Scott

March 11, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

Coach Loved the youTube clip—perfect.

Appreciated the background perspective on Resop. Interesting and certainly explains the “why” he was available. Per some of my previous ST posts, I came away impressed with Resop. He is nasty. I believe that it may be time to replace Yates with Resop. Yates was miserable in the St. Louis game on Sunday.

DOB I stand corrected, as I did not realize the runner advanced on the Yunel throw through Tex’s webbing. Makes sense that there must be an error awarded to allow the runner to advance. My bad.

By parks

March 11, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

Still trying to figure out how people can think Glavine was bad signing. He is going to help this team, big time.

By Braveheart

March 11, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

Boog showing off the guns.

By Reid in EAV

March 11, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

McFann — your boy is in the booth with the broadcast dudes.

Or to steal the tired LOLCats meme:

HE’S IN YR TELEVISION, MAKING LAME JOKEZ

By northBeach Scott

March 11, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

McFann Your boy is assisting in the booth with Boog and Joe. Bright young man and a pleasure.

By richbrave

March 11, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

Seriously, Yunel BLEW UP Teixeira’s glove with his throw? What a bullet.

By keylargo

March 11, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

Just a quick note to say that Directv is unexpectedly broadcasting the Braves now in S. FL. Channel 630.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

Niels Boor, he’d have needed a jet pack to get to that ball. Come on, man. Andruw wouldn’t have been within 10 feet of it, either.

Or do you want Kotsay busting tail and then laying out, diving on the track for a ball on March 11? He does that and you’d have a dozen people here saying, be smart Kotsay, it’s March 11 and you’ve got a bad back.

By the way, Andruw still made a lot of terrific plays coming in, but in recent years those plays going back to the wall and/or gap were not as frequent as he used to make them.

By alabamasmith

March 11, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

Greg in TN

I’m in NE alabama. I guess I’m close enought to TN to have to see hockey.

Thanks for info.

By William

March 11, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

Andruw still made a lot of terrific plays coming in, but in recent years those plays going back to the wall and/or gap were not as frequent as he used to make them.

DOB Totally agree. I think there is no question Andruw had lost a step and the Braves picked the right time to let him go. I don’t want to make the Andruw fans upset, so I’ll leave it at that.

By JJMB

March 11, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, I would call those cannons, not guns.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

Man, I wish I could get some good Preds hockey about right now… Like I wish there were more announcements and sound effects at the Ballpark at Dark Star Sports Complex.

By William

March 11, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

Game is on direct tv 630 on SE Ga also!!! Dang I wish I would have known earlier!

By TexasBrave

March 11, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

I take it DOB went down to talk to Glavine about his game. If anyone is watching the game how about some updates for use geographically challenged fans.

Thanks

By TexasBrave

March 11, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

Oops! Sorry DOB Thought you had gone to do an interview.

By Reid in EAV

March 11, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

First TV game of the season for my five-year-old, who is now in bed. She can’t read yet, but she sees the printing on the backstop and says “Disney!”

Brainwashed. Already.

By Steve from OH

March 11, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

Could someone give the inning and score, please? (If it hasn’t been posted already)

By William

March 11, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

For everyones info, the game will be on FSN tomorrow night against Cleveland.

By Random

March 11, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Coach — thanks for the info/insight.

Uh-oh!

Was that Javy who failed to adequately block the plate on that throw from Kotsay just now? No play-by-play during the KJ interview.

Tch-tch.

(Hate to tell you, McFann, but Kelly is way prettier than the Heap.)

By Metropolitan Man

March 11, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

Tell Pete Van whatever and the rest of his buddies to stop calling me from unknown numbers trying to sell me braves tickets! His voice is annoying as is on radio/television, I dont need him on my answering machine.

LETS GO METS!!!

By parks

March 11, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

2-0 Nats top 7

By keylargo

March 11, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

After 6 Nats 2 - 0. Some kid named Hanrahan has the Braves handcuffed. Has struck out 6 in a row in the 5th and 6th.

By northBeach Scott

March 11, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

Score is 2-0 Nats up after 6 innings. Hanrahan struck out 8 in 3 innings of relief vs Los Bravos—Ouch! 95 mph sinker and 84 mph slider. Nasty enough to maybe start this year for the Nats.

By Art in Tenn

March 11, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this

yeah lets go mets!!! lets blow another 7 1/2 game lead!!!!

By Greg in TN

March 11, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

DOB Only thing I could think of that’s worse is Pred’s hockey at Dark Star.

By William

March 11, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Chipper, Tex and Frenchy all struckout in the bottom of the sixth. This guy for the Nationals is NASTY. I haven’t even heard of him before.

By Roman Gal

March 11, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

Random, I agree. Kelly is pretty easy on the eyes.

By Reid in EAV

March 11, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

Five bucks to whomever got MetroMan’s number in the Braves robocall database. Bwa ha!

By northBeach Scott

March 11, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

Moylan pitching the 7th.

Lopez lines a shot to lf. Borchard cuts it off, hits the relay Lil’Bridge who tosses the runner out at third. Nicely done. Borchard looked comfortable on the play. Interesting . . would not have thought of him as a competent fielder.

Moylan strikes out Zimmerman on a nasty pitch that gets past Javy. Zimmerman safe at first.

By William

March 11, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

Art in Tenn I was thinking the same thing. You’d think after last years historical collapse the Mets fans would shut up. That’s okay though, let them talk it up.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

Just got back from talking to Glavine, and found out that Hanrahan struck out SEVEN IN A ROW and eight of nine Braves. And these included the likes of Teixeira, Diaz, Chipper, Escobar….

Wow. That’s something. Struck out the side two consecutive innings.

By keylargo

March 11, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

Is that Andruw pitching for the Nats????? I’m sorry, that’s Ray King.

By Pete H.

March 11, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

Meet the Mets

Greet the Mets

Come on out and

Beat the Mets!

By William

March 11, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

DOB Hanrahan was NASTY. I haven’t seen him before. Very impressive!! He got Chipper looking on a fastball. That should tell you something.

By keylargo

March 11, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

mid 8th Nats 2 - 0.

By McFann

March 11, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

Random, Roman Gal—

My sister would have to agree with you on the looks issue. Me, on the other hand, well……

Think Brian’s gonna be a commentator someday? Hee hee hee……

By northBeach Scott

March 11, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

Ray “where the doughnuts” King mowed down the Braves in order in the 7th.

Acosta on the mound for the Braves. Tossed a 99 mph heater to Willy Mo Pena and struck him out on the next pitch. Manny is nasty tonight.

He K’s E. Dukes on a 1-2 96mph heater.
Retires the side on a 6-3 routine grounder. Terrific efficient inning.

By northBeach Scott

March 11, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this

I almost barfed, Pete Orr on third, Willie Harris in LF, Ryan Langerhans in RF. Thank goodness it is the Nats and NOT the Braves. Thought I was going to have to return my season tickets.

By SNIPER-69

March 11, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this

How many rings do the Atlanta braves have? Here’s a hint….The Mets have twice as many.

By keylargo

March 11, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

Anderson walks and the Nats are changing pitchers. 2 on, 2 out, bottom 8th. Still 2 - 0 Nats.

By JJMB

March 11, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

Joe and Boog. The best two Braves announcers by lightyears.

Smoltz denfinitely has a broadcasting career ahead of him.

Wren sounds like he might know what he’s talking about.

Glavine and McCann cracked me up.

Kelly Johnson reminded me of a mental patient.

I hope Pena is kept over Lopez. Javy is done.

By SNIPER-69

March 11, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

Pete H., If the Mets had 14 straight shots at the title and only came away with one, brave fans would remind Met fans everytime they had a chance. You’ll have to do better than 1 in 14 to be beating your chest. The Marlins won 2 WS during your streak for Gods sake. Lets not even talk about the Yankees.

By keylargo

March 11, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

End 8th Nats 2 - 0.

By Eric from MO

March 11, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

Sniper what does your 9:31 post have to do with anything? I realize your just trying to stir up something but that is ridiculous. That absolutely nothing to do with anything. That would be like saying when is the last time the Mets won the World Series? I will give you a hint, the Braves have done 9 years more recently.

By northBeach Scott

March 11, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

Borchard flies out to right.

With Lil’Bridge on second (walk and a thrown away pickoff toss to first), Thorman lines out to first. A good at bat, nonetheless and he just missed a hit. 2 out

J. Anderson walks on 4 pitches and the pitcher Munoz comes out of the game.

D. Hernandez grounds out 6-4. score remains 2-0 Nats, after 8 complete.

By Eric from MO

March 11, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

The Marlins won 2 WS during your streak for Gods sake. -Sniper

How many did the Mets win again?

By SNIVELER-69

March 11, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

May I hold someone’s pocket? My heart is tender.

By Greg in TN

March 11, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

It almost looks like the Nats could be called the Beltway Braves, what with Don Sutton in the broadcast booth, Stan Kasten upstairs, Pat Corrales as a bench coach and Orr, Langerhans, Ray King, Estrada and Willie Harris on the roster.

Must be Sniper trivia night on the ‘ol blog. I can play…

How many times have the mets repeated winning their division? 0

How many times have they repeated in dead last in their division? 7

By Roman Gal

March 11, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

McFann Kelly es mi favorito en el equipo! I LOVE his engagement pictures.

By keylargo

March 11, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

Bottom 9th, 2 on, 1 out. 2 - 0 Nats.

By SNIPER-69

March 11, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Yeah, Yeah Eric,….Show me the rings. I’m not stirring up anything. Are Met fans supposed to be blinded and awed by the 14 year streak. I’m sorry but to me it’s all about the rings. To some in braves nation it may not matter. But ask the Buffalo Bills if it matters.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

Braves have two on and one out in bottom ninth, down 2-0. They’ve had 12 strikeouts and only two walks so far in this game.

Sammons at the plate. Takes a bad-call strike 2 for 0-2 count. Now a ball. Fouls one back. And grounded to first, nice play by the 1B for a 1-3 FC moves both runners into scor. position.

Big Joe Borchard to the plate, two ducks on the pond (hey, cliches work well in the blog format, i’ve always said)

By Lew

March 11, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

Sniper-Re: your 9:31 post. And you tell me I live in the past?

By David O'Brien

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

Borchard works a 3-0 count, then took two strikes. It’s 3-2 (ump wants out of here, clearly, based on those calls)

Now he SINGLES UP MIDDLE, DRIVING IN BOTH RUNNERS. We’ve got a tie game, folks.

By keylargo

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

What’s the deal with the Braves and WS rings? You get to the playoffs and have a 1 in 8 shot of winning. The Braves would statistically win one of the next two series to stay on average. Tie Game by the way. Two run, two out single by Borchard

By SNIPER-69

March 11, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

It all depends on your point of view I guess. Now brave fans think their own S-H-i-t doesn’t stink because they had 14 shots and only hit the mark once….Oh well.

By Greg in TN

March 11, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

Interesting development at Dark Star, Joe Borchard ties the game with a two-run, two-out single.

By AdirondackDave

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

Hey DOB — Do you know yet who’s pitching in Jupiter this Sunday and Monday? Thanks.

By northBeach Scott

March 11, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

Borchard smacks a 3-2, 2 out single to drive in runs on third and second. Sweet clutch situation by Borchard who is having a fine spring. He will make a good emergency player in Richmond this year. Tie game 2-2 going into extra innings.

The dreaded Jonathan Rouwenhorst pitching for the Braves, trying to redeem himself after a blown save last week. Line out to Lil’Bridge at SS.

By McFann

March 11, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

Uh…what? Roman Gal…engagement pictures? OK…

What’ll you do if Javy makes the team, eh?

JJMB—

They cracked me up, too! I wish I had that on my iPod!

Ah…Good times, good times!

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this

Willie Harris just struck out for second out in 10th (Nats have W. Harris, Pete Orr and Langerhans all on their team, and one or none of them will make the squad. Only one with a chance is Langy)

OK, top of inning over. Braves coming to bat.

By Home of the Brave

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

WE JUST TIED THE GAME 2-2 DAMMIT!! Im so proud of my team, snif snif!

GO BRAVES IN 10TH!!!

By Niels Boor

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

“Ironic and/or embarrassing”, Stewart Nunn — take your pick (if you’re able).

I’ll not choose for you — so don’t blame me for your choice.

Comprende? Comprenez-vous? Wakarimashta? Verstehen Sie? Dig?

By McFann

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

BTW—That might be it for me tonight. Be back tomorrow! Go Braves, McCann, Joe, and Boog make a great team and

NIGHT ALL!!!

By Reid in EAV

March 11, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

How many times have the Braves choked away a comfortable division lead and come away empty-handed? Oh, that’s right, none.

Ain’t as easy as it looks, that division streak.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

The Mighty Thor singles up the middle, puts that head down and chugs to first base to start the 10th. Jordan Schafer in to pinch run for the Canuck.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

Josh Anderson lays down a beautiful sac bunt, then Schafer is thrown out trying to score from second on Diory Hernandez’s single to right. Great throw.

Brandon Jones up with two out and runner at second.

By Reid in EAV

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

Phew, that was exciting, but frustrating. Langerhans zips a throw in from somewhat shallow RF, perfectly on the mark, nailing a sliding Jordan Schafer.

By northBeach Scott

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

FSN South has featured an upclose slow motion view of some interesting pitching motions, pitching movements, and that Yunel throw that blew up Tex’s glove. Not sure how it is different, but they were making a big deal out of it tonight. Rouwenhorst has an interesting backward and forward leg kick. He retire the side in order in the 10th.

Langerhans nails Thorman? at the plate on a dash from second.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

B Jones draws a walk, brings up Prado with two on and two out.

By LawtonWesley

March 11, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

DOB, how has Kelly looked going to his right this spring. I’ve heard that he has worked hard on that aspect.

Also, any word where Jordan is likely to start the season? Missippi or Richmond? I live in Richmond and would love to see him here in the R-Braves last season.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this

Prado reached on a chop single to short, brings up Blanco with bases loaded.

He gets ahead in count 2-0, now takes a strike, now grounds out 4-3, nice play deep in the hole by whoever’s out there at this point

By Roman Gal

March 11, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

McFann What’ll I do if Javy makes the team? Wear my Lopez shirt…I guess. I still like Javy but my favorite now is Kelly.

His engagement pictures are ADORABLE!

By johnny

March 11, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

for braves fan who travels a lot,get xm,never miss a game it’s great.down side is on road games you get their home team guys instead of pete or skip

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

Well here’s a matchup that’s somewhat interesting, but not really: Damian Moss vs. Pete Orr, with a runner on first and one out in the 11th inning.

By David O'Brien

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

Damian apparently working with a 1-handicap, since scoreboard operator has 4-1 count on board. Oh, now they’ve fixed it to 3-2.

Orr flies out to left field.

Now Lopez (why is this man still in the game?) grounds out to second. We head to the bottom of whatever double-digit inning this was/is.

By keylargo

March 11, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

Langerhans has had a good game. Threw out Schafer at the plate, singles in the 11th, advances to second on a wild pitch that’s not too wild. I hope he makes the team. I was semi-hoping the Braves would give him another shot when they couldn’t find anyone else. (Since though, G. Hernandez, Anderson, Kotsay, have been acquired).

By Braveheart

March 11, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

help, she’s making me watch a freaking debra winger movie on lifetime.

By David O'Brien

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

WAKE UP PEOPLE!

Sammons singles to left to start the 11th. Guzman pinch-running. Borchard back up again. Can Mighty Joe do it again? Stay tuned.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

I’ve just been informed this will be LAST INNING.

And with that, Borchard strikes out and Guzman is thrown out, the old strike’em out/throw’em out DP.

It’s all up to the Lil’ Bridge now. It all rests on the small man’s shoulders.

By ArkyTech

March 11, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

3 hits and walk but no runs in 10th.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

Lilly goes down with a mighty swing. It’s all over, folks.

Aren’t you glad you stayed up? I know I am.

By AdirondackDave

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

Thanks for the play-by-play, DOB. Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.

By TexasBrave

March 11, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

DOB - Thanks for that loud wake up call. I had almost fallen asleep.

:-/

By StingerSplash

March 11, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

Can anyone explain to me what drugs Kim Thayil or Chris Cornell on, because I’m listening to some Soundgarden and good heavens I think I’m having flashbacks.

By David O'Brien

March 11, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

yes, stellar throw by langy on that play at the plate.

and with that, i’ll pack it up, head home and see the Truckers on my brother Conan’s show.

By David O'Brien

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

By the way, Bobby was like Tanner Boyle tonight after the game. “The cruddy game ain’t over.” (Cox didn’t say that exactly; but Tanner did, or something like that). Anyway, Cox wanted to keep playing, didn’t understand why game was called.

He said both teams had pitching to go one more inning.

Of course, once Dark Star shot off fireworks (what, celebrating an 11-inning tie?) pretty well ended any chance this was going to continue.

OK, now I am leaving. Crusading Everyman, out.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

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

Yea , eleven innings of great pitching and it ends in a tie , don’t you just love Hockey !

By bfan54

March 11, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

Key Largo, “the night was clear and the moon was yellow, and the leaves came tumbling down”…what on earth, my good fellow, possessed you to “semi-hope” the Braves would give Langerhans a second look.

Please promise me that you will look at his numbers for last year and revisit this view. I know it’s late… and all that, but…seriously, this man was given about 50 at-bats beyond his useful life!

By Niels Boor

March 11, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

ippississiM—

A word to the wise:

Intimissimi

Ipsissimus

(or two.)

By Home of the Brave

March 11, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this

oh, good grief. I stayed up for nothing…again.

hmmm…sounds familiar…1996 W.S. game 6, 1998 NLCS game 6, 1999 WS game 4, 2003 NLDS game 5, and 2005 game 4 vs. Astros…not to mention countless regular season games I had high hopes on winning.

but this is spring training, for pete’s sake! (and pete lost to roger last night, lol!)

By uga-brave

March 11, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this

line of the night.

glavine asked smoltz what his spring training workout schedule was going to be like next year.

smoltz said glav suggested next year that he, stay home and just fax in his results from his backyard.

By Squince

March 11, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB - We hear a lot about Chuck James’ ah shucks attitude.  He’s earned his starting job over the past 2 years basically by default and his ability to pitch every 5 days (at least until late last year).  Are there any concerns about his mentality if, when he does get healthy, that he may get stuck in Richmond? He’ll be needed at some point, but what if he’s asked to pitch every 5 days in AAA, instead of in the bigs.As always, enjoy the insight.

By Random

March 11, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this

McFann: ” Latin’s great, because you cann learn so much about where words come from with it. (But then again…where do the Latin words come from…)”

Exactly!!!

That’s what got me into linguistics – a course in Etymology (word origins). Latin, Greek, German, English, Irish, Spanish/French/Italian/etc, Russian, Hindi, Urdu (and many more languages) are all related, having “evolved” from a common, “parent” language.

You’ll find the “same” words in all of them. Eg, Latin frater, German Bruder, English brother, French frere, Hindi bhaa-e, and (I know you’ll love this one) Russian brat — all derive from the same original word. Pretty neat, huh?

By uga-brave

March 11, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

squince,

my two cents on chuck. he will pitch where ever they tell him to pitch.

i think he was in bobby’s doghouse late last year. really think he has to earn back bobby’s trust.

cox does not ask much from his players, show up on time, where your uniform right, and be prepared.

as we know chuck is not much for scouting reports and while he has been servicable there were times last year when he looked overmatched.

walks and homeruns usually are not a good combination, and chuck definitely had the market cornered in that area last year. the last promising LH hander that had the same problem, horam got shipped off pretty fast.

By chrisklob

March 12, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this

richbrave Fired the “Editor” of your Mets Blog - Metropolitan Man 1. That sorry azz in draggin’ you down. No wonder you come over here to get some fresh air and vision of reality.

I hope you’re going over there to give him he11. You know he deserves it. Let me know if you need the link again and I’ll post it.

Reid in EAV regarding your 8.21 post. Don’t know if anyone else got that one, but I did. Good stuff!

Braveheart help, she’s making me watch a freaking debra winger movie on lifetime.

You are a grave disappointment to me. Grow a set, son. :-)

“Josh Fanderson, or whatever you go by, regarding your 7.27 post….

2:33, do you mean gaudy, as in excessively showy? Like, how garish of that pitcher to throw those gaudy K’s up? You are a picky little fan aren’t you? Jair is good and I hope he’s in the starting rotation, but to diminish power-throwing strike out pitchers is a bit sensitive and limited. Don’t you think?

No, I am not a picky little fan, but I, unlike you, understand that different pitchers have different abilities and mindsets. JJ has a clear goal in mind. He’s not trying to strike out every guy he faces. He said so himself in his postgame interview on Monday and it looks like it’s working for him so far. Nor am I diminishing those pitchers who do put up a lot of K’s. And actually, to ONLY choose high-strikeout pitchers for your rotation/bullpen would be more limiting than choosing pitchers that understand their abilities and how they translate to success.

“Pitching to contact” is a term that I don’t care for but allow me to parse a bit. Mark Wohlers, Kevin McGlinchy and Kyle Farnsworth certainly “pitched to contact”. Trouble was, the contact sent those little baseballs right out of the park and lost playoff games.

Sorry you don’t like the term. I didn’t make it up so don’t hold it against me. Maybe if Wohlers and McGlinchy had a different mindset about their game they would have had longer careers. Same might apply to Farnsworth too, but of course he’s still playing.

Good pitchers have one game plan: get batters out by whatever means possible, not necessarily by allowing contact.

But what if the best method for THAT pitcher is pitching to contact and allowing the defense to do it’s job? Wouldn’t that qualify by your standard?

Even Jair strikes out batters. He’ll strike out more, or find himself in Richmond.

Negative Ghostrider, pattern is full. JJ WILL be on the opening day 25 man roster, mark my words. Mark these words too: He won’t see a single day in Richmond this year either.

Some truly gaudy pitchers: Nolan Ryan, Roger Clemens, Randy Johnson, Bert Blyleven, Tom Seaver, Don Sutton, Gaylord Perry, Walter Johnson, Phil Niekro, Greg Maddux, Ferguson Jenkins, Bob Gibson, Curt Schilling and Pedro Martínez. How gauche.

I’m not saying that big strikeout totals (which is what I meant by gaudy) doesn’t work for some guys. JJ (or perhaps the “powers that be”) has decided that trying to fan everyone he faces is not the most efficient manner in which to record outs. It works for some guys. Doesn’t for others. Do you really care how he gets guys out? I don’t care if it’s a K or a 6-3 out. An out is an out.

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2008 12:11 AM | Link to this

squince, I’ll second uga-brave on this one: He’ll pitch where he’s assigned. I don’t think Chuck will let it get him down. And actually, I’ve seen a new bit of fire in him after he got to camp thinking he was going to be able to move into the regular throwing program and found out otherwise, that Braves had him on plan where he’d not throw in a game until 20th.

He told them he felt too good to be sitting out so long, and they agreed to move it up nearly a week and get him in a little faster. He does seem motivated to improve his slider and to earn a spot. Doesn’t have the attitude of, he’s entitled to it. Not at all.

I do know one thing: Braves won’t make any decision based on how they think it’ll affect him mentally. If they think they’re better with other starterts than they are with him, that’s how they’ll go. Doesn’t matter how he feels. He’s not John Smoltz or Glavine or Hudson, hasn’t established himself to the point where he has a spot if he’s healthy. He’s got to win it back.

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this

Lawton, I don’t know that you’ll ever see Schafer at Richmond, unless he gets promoted there later this season. He’ll start out at Double-A, and might go straight from there to majors, either at some point this season or to start next.

But yeah, you could see him later this season in the commonwealth.

UGA-brave, I guess you’re not reading my stories in the paper (or online) if that’s the first time you’ve heard that line about Glavine telling Smoltz to stay home and fax in reports of backyard workouts next spring. Damn you.

By uga-brave

March 12, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this

DOB,

just saw john tesh is a guest on your brothers show tonight. dont really see him jumping in with the DBT’s and doing an impromptu.

By Braveheart

March 12, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this

Klobber,32H, my friend. Nuff said. Now back to being forced to watch the Tyra Banks show.

By chrisklob

March 12, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this

32H? Sorry, over my head. I’m guessing it’s a movie reference, but I don’t seem to watch many of them. Unless #32 F is her cup size!

Only Tyra Banks show I ever watched was when the doctor came on and proved that she didn’t have implants! :-)

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2008 12:55 AM | Link to this

yeah, but Tesh and Patterson Hood are gonna rip through a couple of deep-blues covers together.

By brewdawg

March 12, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this

I’m not much of a regular on here, but I read this blog daily, and I gotta say, I forgot this offseason how much I miss the back and forth, the DOB updates, etc. Can’t wait for the games to count. The only thing I dread is Robert’s “donkey” comments every day five times a day.

By Gone Viral

March 12, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this

We saw Joel Hanharan pitch for the Dodgers a couple of years ago against Rick Ankiel back when Knoxville had the Cardinals. He pitched 8 innings of shutout ball and laced a double off of Ankiel to boot (which Ankiel later countered in kind). Ever since then, I’ve been trying to reconcile the pitcher I saw that night versus the guy whose stats I kept seeing. He was toying with AA pitching that night, and I thought he was certain to make their rotation that year.

Keep him in mind, fantasy baseball players. If he has it figured out, the Nationals have a keeper.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

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

Just a thought , if Hampton can’t stay in the rotation , who becomes the other main option to join Smoltz , Hudson , Glavine and Jurrjens ?

Among Carlyle , Bennett and Reyes , none of these three have stood out yet. Chuck James won’t have enough innings and is slated to start the season in Richmond.

Also , the three relief pitchers who are out of options : Boyer , Resop and Ring.

The two right handers Boyer(0.00 ERA) and Resop(2.57 ERA) have pitched well so far.

Left hander Royce Ring has an ERA of 4.50 with a loss , 4 walks and two strikeouts.

The other young lefty , Jeff Ridgway has been impressive.

By Just call me........

March 12, 2008 3:00 AM | Link to this

DOB I prefer this post is stand alone.I’m a lifelong music enthusiast,raised in West Ga in the late 60s I went from my parents music,Hank Williams,Kitty Wells,etc to CCR,Beatles,etc.I have since re-embraced country along with Jazz (Miles Davis’Kind of Blue’ is as good as any work in any musical genre I’ve ever heard.I also like blues,zydeco,Motown,alternative (whatever the hell that means now).Throw in a deep appreciation for Mozart’s best work (the 39th,40th,41st symphonies among them.I could go on but let me get to my point,I hate rap.I was watching a program with a young black college student he was speaking passionately of his love of music.He then went into a rap (gangsta)and even on a higher cable chanel half the lyrics were bleeped and there was nothing that impressed me as art.I’m curious if you’ve come to the same point of demarcation ? It’s not a black thing some of my favorite tunes have strong African influences.May as well go all the way with this,is there a real connection to music in some of the pure rap ? There is some hiphop that has roots in funk and such but the incessant non-melodic pure raw gangsta thing…is it a musical form in your mine ?

By nOLIE

March 12, 2008 3:00 AM | Link to this

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)scoots

I guess I liked season one or three the best . My favorite characters were Stringer and Omar and those were Stringer’s seasons. Next comes the last season of The Shield which I like almost as much,:-(

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 12, 2008 3:58 AM | Link to this

Since I have spent a considerable amount of time scouring all thirty major league rosters along with all the triple A teams and non-roster invitees during the past month , it’s time to put it out there.

The Braves need bench help , of course 3B and 1B seem to the priority.

This is just my top six names that I cam up with.

1.Mark Teahen

2.Morgan Ensberg

3.Mike Hessman

4.Andy Marte

5.Ronnie Belliard

6.Wes Helms

I’m not going to list all the particulars and stats , you guys will have to look them up yourselves or come up with your own list.

By Moby Grape

March 12, 2008 4:38 AM | Link to this

Half of them are guys who already failed miserably for the Braves, though Helms would at least be way more versatile than Thor. Marte and Hessman? Give me a break. How often do we need those two loosers on this club? Neither one has ever been able to hit major league pitching for an acceptable average. Worthless trash da bothen of ‘em. Give me a guy who can get on base regularly rather than some low walk-high strikeout muscle-bum. Teahen or Belliard are good ideas if they could be obtained reasonably which I doubt in Teahen’s case. You can do better Coach.

By Niels Boor

March 12, 2008 5:00 AM | Link to this

Coach: “The other young lefty , Jeff Ridgway has been impressive.”

How do you “reconcile” (thanks, Gone Viral) his performance this Spring with how the Rays “handled” him last year.

Without a single LH in the bullpen virtually all year long, and actually desperate for a LH in the bullpen virtually all year long, the Rays steadfastly refused to call him up (until Sep).

Not criticizing your evaluation, just truly wondering.

Just call me eight small dots—

Feel free to stand alone. Knock yourself out.

By Random

March 12, 2008 5:39 AM | Link to this

I’ll be visiting Nawlins for bidniss the first week of Apr — any suggestions on what I should make sure to not miss doing (or eating) while I’m there? Will be staying at some high-falutin HI in the FQ.

I’ll be traveling with my boss, so one of the parameters to keep in mind should be that I retain my job afterwards.

(Heck, while we’re at it, let’s take all possible disciplinary actions off the table of potential consequences.)

That said, can I still have fun there, post-Katrina?

By Mark

March 12, 2008 7:09 AM | Link to this

always great music selection! Hard to find people that like Uncle Tupelo, especially baseball people

By chuckw/deadjournalist

March 12, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this

With Coach throwing out some ideas on possible bench options, let me throw a name of another former Brave who could really help solidify the bench, and who happens to still be a free agent: Tony Graffanino.

Assuming he hasn’t decided to retire, he could be a great addition. He’s logged almost 200 games at 3B, about 550 at 2B, 75 at 1B, more than 100 at SS and a few games in LF (including three last year). He’s career .267 hitter, mainly as a part time player, and at 35, should - in theory - be able to bring a little veteran leadership to the bench.

Here’s the big question - and if anyone know the answer, please enlighten me: Graffanino is a “Type B” free agent. When do those free agent tags expire? Is there a date? Start of season? Never?

I’m sure the Braves (or any other team for that matter) that might be interested in a role player like Graffanino, aren’t going to sign a them this late in the spring, and give up a draft pick to do so.

By The Man

March 12, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

Mark Teahen would be the only player mentioned that i wouyld like to see the Braves acquire. Wonder if Chuck James would be enough to get him from K.C. Then he and Kyle Davies can chat together about not having so much stress on them having to perform well on their pitching duties.

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this

chuck, not sure about the date (I’ll check), but it’s irrelevant with a Type B free agent anyway, because it’s a supplemental draft pick that goes to a team that loses a Type B free agent.

A supplemental (or “sandwich”) pick is one that’s created between the first and second rounds. In other words, it’s not a pick given up by the signing team; it’s a pick that doesn’t exist until the Type B player is signed, then it’s created.

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

just call me… (regarding your 3 a.m. question): Yes, no question in my mind about hip-hop being a “musical form.” To dismiss the entire genre because you can’t stand segments of it, specifically hardcore gangsta rap, isn’t that like dismissing hard rock music because you can’t stand, say, death metal acts, or Motorhead?

Or, like saying you don’t like hard, old-school country acts like Cash and Waylon because you don’t like the wimpy, overproduced “hat” acts of today that are just pop music for the masses?

To to lump acts nuanced, intelligent acts like The Roots or Common or Kanye in with all the crass, obnoxious hardcore gangsta-rap you’re referring to isn’t logical or fair.

That’s like lumping Whitesnake and Led Zep together. (I couldn’t resist; that’s an long-running thing here on the blog.)

By McFann

March 12, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

McFann Your boy is assisting in the booth with Boog and Joe. Bright young man and a pleasure. northBeach Scott

Sorry for the delay, but I agree 100%! That’s one thing I like about ST games—that they interview guys during play. Heh, I might go so far as to say someone else cann catch tonight! Put Brian in the booth again! (Partly kidding…partly)

How’d ya like what they said about him and Glavine when they first mike’d Tom up? It was during commercials, and Brian told Glavine that he looked good on the mound and Tom responded, “Yeah, I guess I found my catcher.” Got kinda quiet after that, apparently.

By David-ATL14

March 12, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

Royals are not going to move Teahan unless overwhelmed.

I mean really overwhelmed. Might as well scratch him off the list unless you are willing to part with premium minor league talent.

Marte and hessman are non options. Neither can hit at this level.

That leves Belliard and Helms. Count me solidly in Belliard’s corner. Better player and cheaper salary wise.

Scot Hatteberg of the reds might be an ooption. Can backup 1B and be a key pinch hitter off the bench.

By Lew

March 12, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

Niels Boor-The Rays have never done much of anything right. All year long last season they needed pitching in a desperate fashion. Despite a sub 2.5 ERA and a more than 2-1 K to BB ratio, they left Seth McClung at Durham until the trade deadline, when he was traded to Milwaukee. With the Brewers, his ML ERA miraculously dropped 2.5 runs per nine over what it was with the Rays and he became considerably more effective and was offered a ML contract for 08.

There is no way any pitching personnel mistake from the Rays should surprise you or anyone else.

By AdirondackDave

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

DOB - Do you know who will be pitching Sunday and Monday at Jupiter? Thanks.

By Drive by blogger

March 12, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

Who was the player named later in last year’s Langerhans trade?

By Niels Boor

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

Lew: “Despite a sub 2.5 ERA and a more than 2-1 K to BB ratio, they left Seth McClung at Durham until the trade deadline, when he was traded to Milwaukee. With the Brewers, his ML ERA miraculously dropped 2.5 runs per nine over what it was with the Rays”

Are you saying that McClung had a negative ERA with Milwaukee?!?

By The Man

March 12, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

You are right about the Rays Lew. Unfortunately, I have always secretly pulled for the now called Rays. Always “Devil Rays” to me. They are my favorite team behind the Braves. Why………don’t know except I like the Tampa Bay-St Petersburg area a lot. Their overall baseball decisions have been questionable to say the least over their short term existence. Of course many of the Braves descicsons were also in the 70’s and 80’s.

By flange1

March 12, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

DRIVE BY,

His name was Cash, and he was real small……

By Niels Boor

March 12, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

Here, in many much more words, is what DOB has been trying to pound into our heads the past few days about waivers.

Keith Law explains waivers

Excerpt: “These are the waivers you use to kick a player off of your 40-man roster. They’re also the waivers to use when you wish to send a player who is out of options to the minors (thereby also removing him from your 40-man). These waivers are irrevocable, meaning that if you place a player on outright waivers and he is claimed, you can not pull the player back off waivers.”

By Drive by blogger

March 12, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

Flange: Air fare and a bag o’ peanuts?

By Bravetiger

March 12, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

DOB - Were there any cuts announced last night or will they be announced sometime today?

By Lew

March 12, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

Niels-No, if you’ll go back and re-read my post, I said his ML ERA dropped by 2.5 runs per game-not his Durham (minor league) ERA.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 12, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

Neils Boor , I don’t know much about the Devil Rays organization other than to say this. In their ten years of existence they have never had a winning record or season.

They did use two other lefty’s during the 2007 season in Casey Fossum and Jon Switzer which might explain why Jeff Ridgway didn’t get more of an opportunity beyond triple A.

Of the six players I listed , Morgan Ensberg seems to be more of the type of veteran player that Bobby Cox would want on his roster.

A torn tendon in his shoulder back in June of 2006 has slowed his career considerably.

He is currently a non-roster invitee in the Yankees camp and represents a low risk /high reward type of athlete if healthy.

Mike Hessman is another intriguing possibility. For those of you who don’t take the time to actually evaluate a player. Hessman hit 31 HR’s and drove in 101 RBI at triple A Toledo last year , he also had 153 strikeouts and plays 3B/1B. O yea , he was named the Class AAA International League player of the year last season and is out of options.

By Lew

March 12, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this

The Man-Dude, I know what you mean. I lived in St. Pete for 12 years. I was there before they built that ugly little dome and even attended the Kenny Rogers concert that officially opened the place. Saw Arena Football there, too.

My son’s graduation speaker was Chuck LaMarr, the ex Braves’ front office guy who was the Rays first (and now ex) GM. I even wore one of the Rays prototype hats to the ‘96 Atlanta Olympics.

Nonetheless, it has been one of the most, if not THE most dysfunctional organizations I’ve ever seen. Kind of like the early (also middle and late) Mets teams.

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

Hessman’s a classic “4-A” player — tears up Triple-A pitching, overmatched against most major leaguers. I’d rather have the guys the Braves have, including Prado.

Infante should be back by end of April or early May. What do you propose they do with him, the player they got to fill this role? Again, keeping in mind the Braves make their own player evaluations and would’ve pursued a no-salary Hessman if they believed he was a better fit than what they’ve got.

They are fully aware of what Hessman can do.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 12, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

Scott Hatteburg ? Sure , why not pay 1.85 million for a 38 year old back up 1B/C when a half dozen other younger and cheaper players are available. Not to mention what the Reds would want in a trade for him.

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

Bravetiger, cuts will be announced before tonight’s game….

Flange1, perfect answer to the player-they-got-for-Langy question. Though I’m sure it’ll be asked at least once every month for the entire season.

Folks they got NOTHING for him. Or a very small amount of money (perhaps $50,000, or the claiming price for a Rule 5 draft player)

By Daybed Wagmoe

March 12, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

Lew: I’m really sorry that I haven’t said so yet, but thanks a ton for the Smoltz print that you sent to me within the past few weeks! I got it a few weeks ago, and was really impressed with it. Thanks so much for sharing your very gifted talent with us!

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

Adirondack, it should be Glavine on Sunday and Hampton on Monday, provided Hampton’s healthy. if not, I’d guess Buddy Carlyle, who’s taking Glavine’s turn in tonight’s game.

Hampton’s throwing sim game this afternoon, probably while Braves take BP.

By ippississiM

March 12, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

I forgot to post the link yesterday, but I’ve added another installment of my Glavin mentoring analysis.

By ippississiM

March 12, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

I forgot to post the link yesterday, but I’ve added another installment of my Glavine mentoring analysis.

By Lew

March 12, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Daybed-You’re welcome.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 12, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

STOP THE DAMN BLOG AND READ THIS DENIZENS ! THE BRAVES GAME IS ON MLB.TV TONIGHT AND IT’S FREE , YES , I SAID FREE ! YOU DO NEED TO LOG IN WITH A PASSWORD AND USER NAME.

By knowitall

March 12, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

DOB, while I agree for the most part with your assessment of hip-hop, I also believe that some hardcore gansta rap is necessary. I know that the record labels push too much of it but some of it is social commentary. Agree with it or not, a lot of the things talked about in the music is reality. Not to get into a politcal discussion but I think that it is good that issues such as police brutality were brought to the attention of mainstream America by gansta rap.

By McFann

March 12, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

Yeah, Coach, it figures the one night they do it for FREE you cann watch the game on FSN anyway.

But it’s a good deal for those who don’t get FSN South. (That’s a real shame for those folks, too. They do good interviews on FSN!)

By DAP

March 12, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

i would love to have morgan ensberg on this team, i think hes great…

but there are so many personel issues on this team (as far as where to put them all)

i think i agree with coach, that the last piece of a championship caliber team would be a deep a professional bench. a conine type (which ensberg could be) would do wonders for the team right now.

sadly, the chances of us getting ensberg are slim, since we have so many in house options, but hes a real good player, and would be a wonderful backup for chipper.

By Jared

March 12, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

I think the bullpen will be:

Soriano, Moylan, Yates, Acosta, Ohman, Boyer and Ring.

That’s what I’d do anyway. Wouldn’t be surprised to see the Braves dump out-of-options Boyer or Ring for Carlyle….

By scott

March 12, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

Why is Omar Infante being considered the back up for 1st and 3rd when he returns? According to his MLB stats, he has only played 31 games at 3rd and none at 1st. Seems more like a back up for the middle infield.

By David-ATL14

March 12, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

No serious baseball man would tout Mike Hessmans talents over Hatteberg.

One is a proven MLB pinch hitter than can play 1b.

Other(Hessman) is a proven flop.

I don’t know what the braves will do for abackup could be a small move could be internal until Infante returns.

I do know 3 options that can be eliminated for certain.

Hessman and Marte who can not hit MLB pitching. Braves know this well considering they were the original org for both.

Other is Teahan, Royals aren’t going to move him without being overwhelmed by cheap young talent.

No Scott Thorman types would interest the Royals.

By StingerSplash

March 12, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

If there is a God, then Lemmy or Philthy Animal Taylor will become a denizen of the blog. Thanks for the Motorhead reference, DOB. Makes me wanna go listen to “I’m So Bad (Baby, I Don’t Care)”

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

March 12, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

DOB, what is your sense of this team as it stands right now? Does the great spring Joe Borchard is having increase his chances of making the team perhaps as the backup 1B and 5th OF. If not, would somebody like Scott Hatteburg interest the Braves or even Dan Johnson from the A’s?

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 12, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

David-ATL14 , son , you would argue with a tree stump.

Your worse than an old woman with a case of flaming butthole.

You are hereby to be ignored.

By Braveheart

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

knowitall I agree with you. The lyrics of NWA, Public Enemy, Dre, Snoop, Wu Tang, Biggie, 2pac, Nas, Jay-Z told tales of the cold, harsh reality of the hood in a way that Hemingway, Mailer, Dickens, Steinbeck, Twain could not have done.

By AstoriaMetsFan

March 12, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

Here is how the Mets tentatively have their pitching rotation set up for the first series of the season against Los Bravos

Friday: Maine (possibly Perez) Saturday: Santana Sunday: Martinez

By Blog Monitor

March 12, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

Coach

*David-ATL14 , son , you would argue with a tree stump.

Your worse than an old woman with a case of flaming butthole.

You are hereby to be ignored.*

Mr. Pot, I’d like you to meet Mr. Kettle. Mr. Kettle, please meet Mr. Pot.

By Choppinmama

March 12, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

Hello Denizens. No on the field bp for the team yesterday due to meetings, so I strolled over to the indoor batting cages to watch the guys there. Managed to show The Sign to Chipper, said it was from all of us bloggers, and got a smile and a wave from UKnoWho.

So good to see Langerhans, Pete Orr, Willie Harris and Pat Corrales. Poor Pat, he was taking all the hugs and glad hands over behind the batting cage ‘cause he is hardly able to hobble around on that bad leg. He’s using a bat for a crutch and said he had off-season surgery again on that knee. Even with Bobby’s knee replacements, he and Pat don’t have 2 healthy knees between them.

Saw umpire Joe West before the game and said “hey look, it’s the Naked Gun movie star” - he replied “I’m still getting residuals from that movie.” He was so funny after the 11th inning, Bobby, a few umps and a few of the Nats coaches came out on the field, and it looked like they were discussing let’s go 12, but Joe was already waaaay out in centerfield and going through the gate to the parking lot. No residuals for him for extra innings!

DOB, you looked a little restless up there on the 2nd row after 9, I saw more than a few yawns too!

All in all, a satisfying game once the non-roster and non non-roster guys took the field and put a couple of runs on the board.

OK, I’m taking my horrible head cold out to the field for one more game tonight, then I’m hanging up the spiked sandals for this year’s ST.

By Niels Boor

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

Yes, Lewis, I’m sure that if I’ll go back and re-read your post, I will realize that ‘ML’ must stand for ‘Major League’ and cannot stand for Minor League (that would be ‘ml’, I would assume).

And I’m sure that I’ll also realize that, despite your claim that the Rays “left Seth McClung at Durham until the trade deadline, when he was traded to Milwaukee”, he nevertheless posted an ML ERA with the Rays.

(Or should I be saying, pace you, the master of redundancy master, “ERA per nine per game”?)

Now, if you‘ll go back and re-read my post, you may realize that I was only gently joshing you for a humorous ambiguity in your post (despite that I mean for this post to be dripping with sarcasm — can you tell?).

I should have added something to my post like “That really would have been miraculous”, and topped it off with a little smiley. My bad.

“There is no way any pitching personnel mistake from the Rays should surprise you or anyone else.”

You’d be surprised at what surprises me (or what doesn’t).

By David-ATL14

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

Coach not trying to argue, I agree with you that the Braves could use a upgrade for the bench. Just trying to knock down some of your solutions they are terribly unrealisic.

DOB has told you the same in several of his postings.

Remnants of the Thorman options fiasco. Argue repeatedly on your part, be proven wrong with ease and then spout off about the person questioning your off base assertions.

No ill will though for my part. I always read your thoughts like most of the regulars here.

By Lew

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

NielsBoor-And I took no affront, but was showing that I had made a distinction. Can the sarcasm. Dude. It’s unseemly-or at least that’s what I’m told.

By 22oz

March 12, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

I remember a few years ago when Marte was on the rise, and Peter Gammons predicted he would be starting 3rd base for the Braves in 2006. Not sure where Chipper was gonna go. But that was a good prediction by Gammons. I was surprised to hear Boog say that Gammons said Braves were the best team in the NL. I swear just a week ago he said the Mets were going to the World Series.

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Choppinmama: not restless, but was yawning after ninth.

by the way, did I ever tell you Joe West was my baseball coach in pre-Little League ball in Greenville, N.C. It was called “Small Fry” league. Next was “Big Fry,” then Little league.

Anyway, Joe was just out of Elon college, where he was a quarterback. Weighed about 180 at the time, probably. He ref’d and umped high school football, basketball and baseball games with my dad in the early 70s.

NEW BLOGGAGE IS UP

By Braveheart

March 12, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

Joe was already waaaay out in centerfield and going through the gate to the parking lot. No residuals for him for extra innings!

Luv ya choppinmama. Too funny!

By Niels Boor

March 12, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

And if you don’t like the TV commentary, McFann, I belive it’s also being broadcast on 94.9 FM.

By DAP

March 12, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

22oz. I swear just a week ago he (gammons) said the Mets were going to the World Series.

yeah, he did. so why do people worship him? he changes his mind all the time and probably isnt right more often than any other analyst.

By Jerry P

March 12, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

Sean in Columbus: For your 24 & 25 spots you might consider Infante as a utility infielder and McCann as a catcher.

By Chris

March 12, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

People love Gammons because he’s a professional and loves the game.

Someone remind me what exactly the problem is with changing your mind?

He’s watched the teams a bit and has changed his mind. Thats called being an intelligent person. Only idiots hold steadfast to opinions in the face of new information.

By Anders

March 12, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

Fun stiff from NY - Yanks - DRays in a brawl at a ST game today. Guees Yanks are still steamed over there prospect catcher getting his wrist broken.

Rumor at Met camp Pagan for Coco Crisp. I don’t see him as a perfect fit but certainly more marketable down the road assuming Mets will pay some of his salary which I believe they would for the right handed outfielder they need.

By Anders

March 12, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

Fun stiff from NY - Yanks - DRays in a brawl at a ST game today. Guees Yanks are still steamed over there prospect catcher getting his wrist broken.

Not my best work. Yikes!

By Anders

March 12, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

Chris

He’s watched the teams a bit and has changed his mind. Thats called being an intelligent person. Only idiots hold steadfast to opinions in the face of new information.

Having read this I still think you’re wrong about Gammons. Oh wait - Did I just prove the rule?