Braves

By Mark Fanxeira/ BBFCFM

March 24, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

F1rst!?

By Robert

March 24, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Watching Kotsay play defense is painful. First yesterday now today. When can Schafer get here.

By Robert

March 24, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Watching Kotsay play defense is painful. First yesterday now today. When can Schafer get here.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Kotsay just got turned around again going straight back on a long Jhonny Peralta drive to straightaway center. Went for a double after Kotsay raced straight back, looking first over left shoulder, then over right. Ball fell about a foot or two in front of his glove. Second time in two days.

By Renegator

March 24, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

4th?

By midtownBrave

March 24, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

kotsay, escobar and chipper strikes out!

By Murphy

March 24, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

yay, new blog! I was wondering why the other one stopped refreshing…

No worries jet on Smoltz. YET. Love the news on the trades though! You would think we would be getting lots of calls for our bullpen guys.

By Robert

March 24, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

Kotsay sucks at defense

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

Jake Wesbrook has struck out five of the first six Braves hitters.

By midtownBrave

March 24, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

who’s pitching for the bravos other than buddy? yates, boyer?

By flylikeeagle

March 24, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

first??

By Murphy

March 24, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

yikes. Hope that defense get’s better. The one yesterday looked horrible.

By hk

March 24, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

… ‘MVP’ (Runs + HR’s + RBI’s) through yesterday … also, factored by at-bats …

http://www.mindspring.com/~hk3/mvp08.htm

By Javy's back (ok, maybe not)

March 24, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

I cannot wait for the season to start, especially after my brackets got busted like a NY govenor. DOB, your blogs are great and we all appreciate them. Please keep us updated on the game today as I am stuck on my computer all day.

By Murphy

March 24, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Is the game on TV? All I can find is the Astros game from yesterday.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Scheduled to relieve today: Moylan, Ridgway, Yates and Ohman.

By Robert

March 24, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Westbrook is getting all those borderline strikes

By McFann

March 24, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Derick Richards—

You’re welcome. Glad to be of service.

Ron R—

If you take me up on the cut-and-paste (which I spelled wrong before, darn it), you cann stick at the end of the last blog, so as not to use up too much space over here. If not, no prob.

Thanks for the new blog, Chief!

Trade Yates! Trade Yates!

By KneeJerk

March 24, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Dave, I went to Webb’s a few years ago when I went to see the Royals play. I think Goat’s milk fudge is an acquired taste. I’ve yet to make that acquisition.

By Workinlkeadawg

March 24, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

Please Bobby bring Schafer back

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

Sammons just drove a ball to the RF wall, but Gutierrez robbed him of extra bases with a nice leaping catch for third out in third….

Braves down 1-0 heading to bottom third. Only run scored on Peralta’s double that Kotsay didn’t get to in the first inning, after Haffner had walked.

By John B.

March 24, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

Got a nice shout out by Peter King, DOB. “f. Want to read an enjoyable blog, a guy who blogs the way blogs were meant to blog? David O’Brien has a great slice-of-spring-training-life in the Atlanta Journal Constitution. Very human, with snippets of how he does his job (not as easy as you think), the music that accompanies him on trips around central Florida chasing the Braves, and the fun scenes he sees — like the Hooters with the defunct Hooters Motel behind it.” http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/peter_king/03/21/mmqb/2.html

By BillyBrave in Germany

March 24, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Game is on MLB.com

By tomahawknation

March 24, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

What are some options as far as Power Hitting bench players?

By BrandonC

March 24, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

I don’t know if I can handle watching Kotsay get turned around on a regular basis. I know he’s not Andruw, but he IS a professional baseball player and should know what routs to take by now.

By Since Mr. Modest won't tell you ...

March 24, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

Peter King of Sports Illustrated tells his readers that one David O’Brien blogs the way bloggers should. He even mentions positively the music stuff, which I could live without. Thanks for the warning on that today and congrats on getting props from King.

By SpringTraining

March 24, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

I hope Anderson is on the roster. We will need him for defensive purposes in close games. Kotsay cant run em down like Anderson can. I have seen Anderson in action and hes fast.

By knowitall

March 24, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I’m a faithful reader of Peter King for my football news. He gave you a shout out in his column today. Congrats. You are the official King Of the Blog!

By Alan

March 24, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

I’m not at all worried about Smoltz - he’s fine as both he and Bobby Cox have been saying for days. I am concerned about Kotsay, though. Didn’t see either yesterday’s or today’s miscues, but they sound absolutely awful. He’s got to do the job defensively - that’s the main reason he was signed, right? He hasn’t done much at all on offense this spring. I expect Yates and Ring both to be traded - probably Pena and/or Thorman, too. I can see the Braves getting a right-handed hitter with power and a bit of versatility - someone like Kevin Millar or Brandon Inge. Wes Helms might work, too, but he’s not as good as either Millar or Inge. This week will be very interesting - not only for the Braves but for every other team as well.

By Reid in EAV

March 24, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Question that may not have an answer in this forum, but gotta ask it anyway — Why, with a game now being played, is SportSouth replaying yesterday’s Braves-Astros game? Maddening.

By Rob U

March 24, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Westbrook, a perfecto through 4, our bats have cooled down in the last week. Hopefully thats a sign that there gonna be warming up come Sunday.

By Larry

March 24, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Glavine start the home opener? Why?

Isn’t this the same greedy, self-centered guy who took just a little more money to walk away from the franchise that gave him his start and paid him millions and moved to New York and left his wife and young children behind?

Yep! This is the same old nose mining, cheerleading “bubba” manager who is 1-14 in the final must win game of the postseason who is still today making the dumbest of all decisions!

Why not start Mike Hampton? This guy has been though everything to get back on the mound and is one of the hardest working teammates on this team!

Another year of boobie ball!

By Stuart

March 24, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

I have this funny sensation that I am going to mutter “Andruw would have caught that” alot this year.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

Lillibridge in to play SS now. And wouldn’t you know, first batter of the fourth inning, Gutierrez, hits one that gets under Lillibridge’s glove. Tough play to make, but Yunel might have.

By TrboDawg

March 24, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I see that Lillibridge is in the game and Yunel was grabbing his back/oblique during his at bat. Anything there????

By Novice Ned

March 24, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

Finally saw Liilibridge on TV yesterday. I seriously wondered whose kid was getting a chance to stand in the field between innings. You know, kind of like whose best golfing buddy gets a few hacks during BP. He looks like he should be working a paper route on a bike (oops, showing my age). Whatever happended to Daryl Ward and can we get him back in a trade? He was a very useful pinch hitter with more than a little pop but can he play 1B?

By TPM

March 24, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

If Glavine opens up at Turner Field, who will come in to relieve him in the fifth inning ?

By Oregon_Braves

March 24, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Speaking of dead horses…

Larry, give it a rest. All that anger is not good for the soul, my man. Do you possibly have a brother named Robert??

By TJ

March 24, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

I still say keep an eye on what Oakland does. From what I’ve read, they’ve got to choose from between Mike Sweeney (who’s on a minor league contract but appears likely to make the team) and Dan Johnson, who we discussed the other day. Either one would be the kind of impact bat we need (and Johnson would be a great backup and possible replacement for Tex).

We’d probably have to give up something of value for Johnson, though, because he has value.

And I think Wes Helms would be a good (not great) addition for a year, but not so sure that the Phillies and Braves want to do much business with each other.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 24, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Westbrook has no hit stuff today.

By Randy S

March 24, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

Wow, just realized that although the Big 3 (Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz) probably won’t all be in the same HOF class, Bobby might be in one of their classes. Do managers go by the same rules (5 years after retirement)? Might have to trek up for that induction weekend.

As to that, has anyone here been to a HOF weekend in Cooperstown? Is it worth it? I know the town seems to have become a bit of a joke by now, overrun with cheesy baseball stuff. And I bet HOF weekends are madness there. Still, would be great to see Glavine and Cox or Smoltz and Cox go in together.

Also, the Indians announcers are plugging Grissom’s baseball charity. Cool move by them, taking an entire half-inning talking about him.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

Braves STILL HITLESS through five innings (I hurriedly told you Francoeur singled earlier; he did not. That ball was a 1-6-3 groundout).

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 24, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

Westbrook is perfect through five frames with seven strike outs.

By Mark Fanxeira/ BBFCFM

March 24, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

Larry,

actually nevermind.`

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

Ridgway just made a terrible throw to first that let in TWO RUNS in the fifth inning. Not one, but two runs. Bunt to left side of field, should have been a simple sac, turned into mayhem for the Braves.

By Stuart

March 24, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Okay Larry, you are the boobie, and not the good kind.

Why not start Mike Hampton? It IS the home opener vs. your biggest rival, who has a potent lineup. Oh BTW, it is Mike’s first start in over 2 years.

Maybe Bobby wants to start Mike against the Pirates, a team that, I think it is fair to say, doesn’t have as potent of a lineup. Maybe that will give Mike a better chance to have a modicum of success in his first start in over 700 days to build on.

Maybe Glavine, who got low-balled, (not by much, but he was) by the Braves, deserves to come back to cheers. He does kind of know the Mets hitters, but to give your weak argument defense, they know him as well.

I am not a fan of how Bobby handles the pen, and I don’t agree with everything he does, but he has won somewhere in the neighborhood of 2,000 games. Let’s give him the benefit of the doubt a bit this year, at least during the first week of the year at least.

I just love this whole ‘heart and desire’ arguments on here. If the players dont have fire and desire, the manager, I dont care who it is, ain’t going to install it into someone making millions. Great players/business people, etc. motivate themselves.

GO BRAVES!!!!

I can’t wait for the season to start.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Now a BALK by Ridgway has let in another run. Two walks, a balk and an error. NEXT!

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 24, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Ridgway stinks here in the fifth. Two walks , a hit , an error and now a balk. Three runs are in so far….

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 24, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

Another hit off Ridgway , 5-0 Cleveland.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

Jason Michaels just CRUSHED a double to the base of the CF wall. Five runs have scored against Ridgway in this inning.

Rumor is there’s a cab in the parking lot, ready to take him to Richmond.

By Rob U

March 24, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

I think it’s safe to say Ridgeway sealed his fate today.

By bullpenfan

March 24, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

maybe today is saving day for yates…when he is on, he is on…i hope they keep him. boyer looks great out there this year and royce comes and goes…but has seemed to get more control. with ohman and mikeG coming back i think he could be on the block, more so than yates…bobby seems to really like him.

By kdbanks

March 24, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Anyone know where I can get a replica Boston Beaneaters cap? Love that name…

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 24, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Ridgway has just punched his ticket back to the minors for darn sure.

Two walks , three hits , a two base error , a balk and five runs so far….6-0 Cleveland.

By Jon

March 24, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

Stuart Why not start Mike Hampton? It IS the home opener vs. your biggest rival, who has a potent lineup. Oh BTW, it is Mike’s first start in over 2 years.

Since when are the Pirates our biggest rival?

By Blake Penno

March 24, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

DOB

Smoltz said something on yesterdays broadcast about pitching in Rome, have you heard anything about this? The open on Thursday of next week, so it seems as if he wouldn’t pitch in a real game if he did pitch there, though my assumption could be off.

Regardless, Ridgeway looks pretty rough on TV right now

By AGTfan

March 24, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

I loved the Peter King comments about DOB on SI.com. One of the few times that I agree with him completely. I think we Braves fans are lucky to have DOB. I bet even teh Mets trolls will agree.

By Brad

March 24, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Dave, I don’t usually get in to the music portion of your blog very often, but I will say this about Mike Doughty’s new album… if you’ve followed him at all in the past, you know that the track “27 Jennifers” is a previously recorded song, but, he’s added a little something extra to the instrumental portion of the new recording, and I like it a lot better than the older version that I have…

Thanks for the updates on the trade talk… any ideas of specific guys the Braves might go after in a trade, or teams that might have that ‘surplus’ at specific positions and might need a Tyler Yates/Brayan Pena/Scott Thorman type?

By Luther

March 24, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

The never ending inning. Hey this is supposed to be an enjoyable Spring training listen. Thank you Lillibridge, I didn’t want to turn the game off because of frustration before the season even started.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

The Lil’ Bridge just made a spectacular diving stop to mercifully end the inning. Braves down 7-0.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 24, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

Close the book on Ridgway. six runs on four hits , two walks , the balk and a two base error in one inning. FUGLY.

By DCbrave

March 24, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

Yep, Ridgway just showed himself the Rich way, Richmond, that is.

By Tommy T

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

I think Dmitri Young is going to be the odd man out at 1B for the Nattys. I know he has some lbs. issues, but he would be a dangerous stick off the bench. I know he used to play the OF corners some, might’ve had a few too many Big Mac’s to do it now though.

By DAP

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

stuart the pirates are NOT our biggest rival, and they DONT have a potent offense.

By kdbanks

March 24, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

Anyone know where I can get a replica Boston Beaneaters cap? Love that name…

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 24, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

Three up and three down for the Braves in the sixth inning . Westbrook has a perfect game through six with eight strike outs.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

The Braves, who pitched a no-hitter until two out in the ninth here last time we were in Winter Haven, are now being not just no-hitted, but perfect-ed (inventing word usage). Westbrook hasn’t allowed a thing.

By Brent S.

March 24, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

Here’s a music question for you. How’s the Bauhaus and Mike Doughty albums? I wasn’t sold on Bauhaus, but have been previwing the Doughty on iTunes. Also, did you like the Raveonettes and The Black Crows new albums? I’ve been trying to like the Ravenonettes, but really enjoy the Crows new one.

By BT

March 24, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

Looks like Greyhound would be more appropriate more Mr. Ridgeway. Did he have much of chance before today?

By Efrim

March 24, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

How many Braves games will I see if I purchase MLB Extra Innings? Does anyone know?

By ManOfTeal

March 24, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Go Marlins!!!!

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

Blake, Smoltz could pitch a rehab game at Rome to build arm strength before he comes off DL (assuming he’s going on it, which he is). Gotta pitch somewhere between now and April 6, in a real game somewhere, not just camp games or sim games.

By Steve McP

March 24, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

Efrim, it depends where you live - when you go onto the site to purchase you can enter your zip code and that will show which teams games are going to be blacked out.

I live near Asheville NC (3 hours drive from the Ted) but I am in the black out area, so decided to go with just the radio package, which only costs about $15 for the year and gives coverage of all games.

By David O'Brien

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

Then again, if they’re not starting until a week from Thursday (I haven’t checked) then I can’t see him pitching there before a Sunday April 6 start against the Mets….

Brent S., I love that Raveonettes album. Don’t have the Crowes.

If you like Peter Murphy, you’ll probably dig the Bauhaus.

By timmy

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

DOB, you’ve said more than necessary about Ridgway. I think after a stinker like that, a cab would be too much to give him.

By Stuart

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

I misspoke, I keep thinking forgeting about the Pirates series being sandwiched in there. Of course I dont get peachtree TV, so does it even count? My bad.

By Wayne in Utah

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

With all the other arms we have for the bullpen, was there any doubt that Ridgway was heading to Richmond before the debacle today?

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Hoss breaks up no-no with two-out double off Jorge Julio in seventh.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 24, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Chipper busts up the perfect game with a double.

By ROCHIE

March 24, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

cant wait to be there for opener!! you guys go out and support the bravos!!!!guess ridgeway lost any chance he had by todays outing!!

By ROCHIE

March 24, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

cant wait to be there for opener!! you guys go out and support the bravos!!!!guess ridgeway lost any chance he had by todays outing!!

By Brad

March 24, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

Hoss saves the day. Being “perfect-ed,” even in spring training, would have been embarrassing.

By Tomahawkin

March 24, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

Anyone interested in bringing back Kenny Lofton as arole player off the bench? I know I will probably get My Chops busted but last year he stole 23 bases for Cleveland last year, and we definitely need more speed off our bench…Granted his Defense is only half the caliber it was ten years ago…

but “It’s hard to believe (Harry) that no team signed ex-brave/phillie Kenny Lofton for the coming season. Lofton hit .296 in 490 at bats last year, and hardly looked like he was finished. He played a key role in getting Cleveland to the ALCS. He’s a .299 career hitter with over 620 stolen bases. Even at age 40 somebody should have signed him.”

By timmy

March 24, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Efrim, you get all the games that arent nationally televised in your region(games on Tbs, Espn or Fox). I am from NYC, so I wouldnt get of the Braves nationally televsed games that are on the same day as mets or Yankees Fox days.

DOB, I agree with the Reed Johnson comment. Where do people get this idea that we are interested in him? I know he would be concsidered a bat but I remember in one of you blogs last week, you said Wren was looking for a bat that people would fear coming off the bench. Reed Johnson hardily strikes fear in an opposing pitcher, especially in a late game RBI situation. I also think Pena makes the roster but will be traded at the deadline. He has a steady bat and does offer the opportunity to be versatile versus Thorman. Plus, he is a switch hitter. He is almost like 2 hitters, and he can only benefit from being around Tex and Chip, two the best switch hitters in the game

By Steve McP

March 24, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Stuart - the Wednesday and Thursday games vs the Pirates are on FSN and SportsSouth, Peachtree TV has about 40 games this year, but it seems to include almost every Friday and Saturday game and about 70% of the games in late June and July

By DonCoburleone

March 24, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Dang, Braves getting no-hit by Jake Westbrook? Kind of reminds me of one of those nightmare games from last season where the Braves inexplicably forgot how to hit. Remember those games? Where we made random pitchers (like Jason Bergmann or Oliver Perez) look like the second coming of Sandy Koufax?

I know there were more average pitchers who shut us down last year, anyone remember???

By VENEZUELA

March 24, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

DOB DOB DOB

What ever happened to SORIANO???

Wasnt he supposed to pitch yesterday? or the day before?

I thought he was pitching today for sure…so much time without him for a game…

Is he gonna be ready, heard he has only played 4 games or something…last year he played 9 and that seemed like to little…wouldnt 5 or 6 games (x inn.) be pushing it ?

By STRETCH

March 24, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

DOB, or anybody…is Thorman gone or Pena? By the way, how much is that MLB pax going for? Im in Pensacola and i am really looking into it. Who is this Ridgeway guy?!

By Efrim

March 24, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

Steve McP

Thanks man. I live in CT. I am pretty sure I should be able to get a fair amount of them.

By flange1

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

DOB,

How did the other relievers look today? (Besides the explosive outing by the Richmond bound Ridgeway)

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 24, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

I’m getting all 162 games and these spring training exhibitions. Having my cake and I’m gonna eat it too.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Moylan’s getting squeezed, just gave up an RBI double that bounced over the RF fence after it landed in front of Francoeur. That swirling wind must be playing havoc with balls, because I don’t think we’d see Kotsay and Francoeur both misjudge them that badly in the same game.

By flange1

March 24, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

No to Kenny Lofton, Sammy Sosa, Barry Bonds, and Jeff Weaver.

By Stuart

March 24, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

Stuart - the Wednesday and Thursday games vs the Pirates are on FSN and SportsSouth, Peachtree TV has about 40 games this year, but it seems to include almost every Friday and Saturday game and about 70% of the games in late June and July

Dang it, I am the boobie today. I deserve it.

By SBowers

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

First of all, DOB great job

Secondly…about Tom Glavine. Although I respect his accomplishments (over 300 wins and tons of innings pitched) does anyone else have a sour taste in their mouth over the union and strike way back when? I recall an interview with Glavine as he was about to tee off over at Country Club of the South with Donald Fehr as the players were about to strike. Just curious if anyone else remembers that period. All that being said…I think the players should get all they can if someone is willing to pay it. Fair market value I just have trouble with the way he handled it I suppose.

By Steve-O

March 24, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

Efrim- I live in NY, and got the extra innings package last year. I got every game that wasnt on ESPN or TBS. the Mets games were blacked out, but I just watched them on SNY.

By Blake Penno

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

STRETCH

Your in Pensacola also? I don’t have dish, so I can’t say much about the extra innings package, but I love the mlb.tv online package. My plasma has a computer monitor hook up, so I just sit back and watch every game on the couch like I did when I lived in the ATL area.

By BlueDevilCBW

March 24, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

Is it reasonable to assume that Cox will keep 12 pitchers again?

By Stuart

March 24, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

Being a Braves fan and all, is it wrong to cheer against Tyler Yates? I am conflicted. I don’t wish harm on anyone personally or career wise, but I do not want Yates in the pen, especially over someone like Boyer or Ring.

By Interested Observer

March 24, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

I’ve never understood why the Braves value Corky Miller more than Pena as a back-up catcher. It sounds like several catcher-needy teams are interested in Pena. I doubt many of them are beating down the door to get Corky.

By Pete H.

March 24, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

I admired Glavine for his union rep work. It would have been easy to let someone else do it; he already had HIS money, but he held out for the young kids who weren’t likely to make the big bucks. The vast majority, the vast-vast majority, of players never even sniff the big bucks or a pension or much more than a weekly paycheck and some meal money.

Glavine has always been a class act and I am very happy to have him back, even if it is only for a year.

By StingerSplash

March 24, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

Thanks to Chipper, the Braves have been spared the ignominy of being no-no’ed in Grapefruit League. Usually the only time “no no” is said down there is when one of the players’ breaks his line and pole when trying to reel in a bass in the afternoon.

By Christy

March 24, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

Please, no more Glavine bashing. it’s been done to death here and IMHO it’s unfair. If it hadn’t been Tommy, it would have been someone else on the team assigned that role. Would all Glavine haters be as unhappy if it was Smoltz who had represented the players during the strike years? Before you say no, think about it and be fair. Glavine had a duty and if you ask the players, he did right by them. If they say otherwise, then we as fans can gripe. If they support his role in the strike then we have to blame all the players.

Glavine gave us great years and Atlanta’s only World Series to date.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy Opening Day. It’s Spring. new beginnings for everyone, and that should include Glavine…

By Bobby Cool

March 24, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

DOB You problaly answer this question , but If you know what Javy lopez going to do now that he is retired, If he has a Business in the Atlanta Area? I know much of this Player when retired there already have investment.

By Brad

March 24, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I may be biased, but I think the Braves have the most talent 1-25 in the entire NL East. I’d like to know the team’s take on this. At times it felt like a huge gap last season, but we were really never that far away from the Phils and Mets. What’s the most critical thing to look for this season that will determine whether the Braves win the division?

By STRETCH

March 24, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

BLAKE PENNO,

Thanks for the info, i have DISH network, tried that but in the end i didnt see ANY baseball. The NBA packages were great, but MLB? I got NOTHIN. So im gonna go with the MLB.TV online…sounds promising.

By Chop Chop

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

I’ll get all the games outside of the Peachtree TV ones. I apparently wouldn’t be able to get those 45 games even if I had MLB Extra Innings or MLB.TV. Gotta love living in Braves territory and not in the metro Atlanta area, right?

I don’t know if anyone else has done this, but here are some games that you will miss if you are unable to see the Peachtree TV games:

1. The home opener against the Pirates.

2. Six (that’s right, SIX) of nineteen games against the Mets.

3. Eight (yes, I said EIGHT) of nineteen games against the Phillies, including three of their final six September games.

4. Three of six games against the Cubs this year, including two of three at Wrigley. What a joke.

5. Five straight games (3 vs. Marlins, 2 vs. Phils) from June 3-7.

6. Two three-game runs: June 19-21 (1 vs. Rangers, 2 vs. Mariners); July 3-5 (1 vs. Phils, 2 vs. Astros)

While it’s true that I’m lucky to able to watch the Braves without having to purchase MLB.TV or MLB Extra Innings, I submit that losing more than a quarter of my favorite team’s games without recourse is a crappy proposition. I guess I’ll get reacquainted with my radio in 2008.

By Stuart

March 24, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

Is it just me or does this team still strikeout a ton?

By ObiWanKobe

March 24, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

DOB, How about Kendry Morales of the Angels? Looks like Scott Shields is going to go on the DL. They have other bullpen issues as well as their best 2 starters on the DL. They might be in a place where they have to make a deal even if it isn’t for equal value. They expect to be a contender and don’t want to tank the begining of the season. Any thoughts?

By AdirondackDave

March 24, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Brad —- Sometimes I think the Braves do have the best 1-25 but not when we have games like today. I’m not sure we’ll miss Andruw’s Ks and DPs but how can we not miss his defense? It’s not just center but he also had a positive impact on left and right and maybe the middle infielders as well. Time will tell, but I’m concerned.

By loafer

March 24, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Give me abreak….Glavine the Met in the home opener. I paid $150 a seat to see that traitor pitch for us. How the heck am I gonna boo him if he’s pitching for us. He’ll get bombed out in two innings anyway then I can boo him off the mound. I’d rather see on eof the new guys.

By DCbrave

March 24, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Oh well, on a day like this when you were almost perfected upon and striked out 11 times, the only thing we could say is this is only spring training. The good thing is that we are not gonna see these guys again until in Oct.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 24, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

The Braves will carry twelve pitchers. Cox has already said as much.

The roster will look like this.

1.Five starters.

2.Seven arms in the bullpen.

1. Two catchers.

4.Four outfielders.

5.Seven infielders.

By NY Jay

March 24, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

Does any Brave fan think that the loss of A. Jones will alter the pitching philosophy?

Kotsay, Francouer, and Diaz in the outfield isn’t exactly ideal in terms of defense.

The infield is very good if not the best in the NL defensively but I wonder if a pitcher will take a chance on throwing a belt high fastball now that they know Andruw isn’t there to outrun a rope up the gap to make a catch.

On top of that I also wonder if Cox will play his corner outfielders a little more toward the gaps to help Kotsay.

So here’s the question to any who wants to debate it;

Will the Brave outfielders hurt the pitching staff?

If so then would you rather have Jordan in CF and batting eighth because he can play defense or keep Kotsay and see what happens by the All-Star break?

Keep in mind, two dynamic players in the NL East, Jose Reyes and Jimmy Rollins, played their first season providing defensive stability at their position while providing little offensive impact.

By Steve McP

March 24, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

chop chop - my dish network gets WGN which is a Chicago channel that gets the Cubbies, so you might get those games at least.

By 22oz

March 24, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Well, that game is mercifully over. Errors, no hitting, poor defense, not too good of pitching. I think the only bright spot was Yates, which probably further complicates the bullpen picture.

By Wayne in Utah

March 24, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Can Lofton play any first base? I would see him on the Braves, only if we were keeping 5 outfielders. His value would be more in the ocassional start, or a modified platoon with Diaz.

I think Kenny will be available for another month or so….just a guess.

By Kevin

March 24, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Hopefully they got a game like this out of their system before the season started. Jake Westbrook is not that good.

By DAP

March 24, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

so i guess peachtree didnt work out a deal with any cable channels to broadcast some of the games in the southeast?

supposedly, they were working on something like this, no? like a simulcast or something?

that ticks me right off. at least they will be on the radio, though…

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

March 24, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this

Considering the backup catcher will catch no more than one game on most weeks I don’t know why Corky Miller would be picked over B. Pena. Yes, Miller’s defense is a lot better but it is the backup job. Pena is a better hitter and more versatile. If Pena is traded, I hope the Braves get something good for him and I think he will become one of those players that can blossom if just given the chance to play.

By Chop Chop

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

I don’t have a dish (Dish Network or DirecTV) and I don’t get WGN through my cable system. As a kid, I used to get WGN down here in Albany, GA. I’d come home from school and watch what was left of Cubs’ home games. WGN hasn’t been carried on Mediacom (or any other cable provider) in my area in at least 15 years.

Long story short, I’m not going to pay more money for a dish to get a couple of games that I’m getting screwed out of seeing.

(Don’t worry. I have cheese to go with my whine.)

By Pete H.

March 24, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

I’m resigned to just being able to follow the boxscore on ESPN and hopefully get some updates here or on Scout. I might be able to see 10 games on TV this year. My computer is way too lame to waste time watching through mlb.com.

I assumed Dish TV would have a Braves package, but evidently not.

By Randy S

March 24, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

DAP - The word, as indefinite as it is, is that Comcast will be picking up the games that are on Peachtree TV and broadcasting them on CSS throughout the southeast. HERE is the original story and HERE is one that says the deal might not be quite worked out yet.

By Thank god for P-tree TV

March 24, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

ya know, everyones is complaining about peachtree TV, when in-fact, those are the only games I will get at all since I don’t have cable. SO congrats to all you whiners for getting 66% more games than I. I would trade with you in a heartbeat if I could.

By Blake Penno

March 24, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

DAP

I received a call from a friend in Alabama that Cable One is about to pick up the channel, so I’d assume that would be the same for other Cable One areas. If they are your cable provider, you might be in luck.

By Randy S

March 24, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Actually, now it looks like the deal is done because Comcast/Charter is showing some Braves games on it’s CSS TV schedule, but only for TN, AL, SC, MS, Asheville and GA outside ATL. LINK 1 LINK 2

By Caleb

March 24, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

How about the Braves trading Yates for Albert Pujols, straight up. Then the Cards could go with an all reliever-turned starter rotation and the Braves would have a decent backup firstbaseman.

By TexasBrave

March 24, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

Does any one remember Bobby handling rotation/pen as poorly as the last couple of years? I am not a Bobby Cox defeatist like Robert, but I don’t recall the pen being burnt out as much as it has been the last couple of years. Any theories as to why?

The only one I can come up with is that Leo is gone. I wonder how much Bobby relies on the advice of his pitching coach? I assume that Bobby relied on Leo’s advice a lot thus the staff did fairly well. Now since Leo is gone, does Bobby rely on Rodger as much or is he going by his own book? Either way, if the past couple of years are any indication, I would say the Braves have missed Leo’s handling of the pen.

By woogidy

March 24, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

P tree TV is %100 HD too! YAY!

By StingerSplash

March 24, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

You know, I’m kinda mad the Indians are leaving Florida for Arizona (and doesn’t that, along with the equally repulsive Dodgers, put the Grapefruit/Cactus split at 50-50?). I hope Willie Mays Hayes gets in tax trouble. I hope Cerrano can’t be saved by Kiefer Sutherland and I hope their third baseman is relegated to a life of Skinemax movies. And I hope Norman Dale delivers a comeuppance to that starting pitcher who rubs snot on the ball.

By DAP

March 24, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

NY Jay its never a good pitching philosophy to give the guy a belt-high fastball.

you pitch low in the strike zone, and change speeds, causing weak contact, i.e. pop-ups and grounders. i dont think that changes no matter who is on defense.

if pitchers never made mistakes, all the defense would have to do is make the plays they are supposed to make. routine plays, in other words. if the pitcher gives up solid contact, you just have to hope its at somebody

i hope you get what im trying to say…great defense is not required if the pitcher never makes mistakes, and that is probably always the pitching philosophy, no matter what the defense is like. dont make mistakes. so, defense never affects pitching philosophy.

By Jersey Gil

March 24, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop I fill sorry for you, that happen to me when i moved to Jersey, but the last few year i have the Indemand Xtra Inning pkg and last year i didn’t miss any braves Games. I think what you have to do is put in you Xmas wish list so any of your parent r friend buy it for you. This TV thin is killing Baseball, Did any one hears this morning what Ticket in the new Yankee Stadium will cost in the first 8 roll…$2500.00 per seat….crazy.

By Renegator

March 24, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

woogidy

Are you in ATL?

I don’t get Peachtree TV in HD yet.

By DCbrave

March 24, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Texasbrave- It is absolutely a fact that the amount of using the pen always depends on how the starting pitchers perform, and I am sure you know perfectly well how our starting pitchers performed last year.

By BT

March 24, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Now DOB is going to be on 680 every Tuesday afternoon. Man you are going big time Peter King and 680 all being announced in one day. Now if you could help out Pendelton in getting the Braves to hit we would be really in good shape!

Congratulations David

By TJ

March 24, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave, I haven’t researched it, but I suspect that Bobby’s “poor” handling of the bullpen the last couple of years, is a direct function of bad starting pitching and too many mediocre relievers. When you’ve got four horses pitching 180-200 innings like we did for so many years, it’s pretty easy to manage a ‘pen (not that Leo doesn’t deserve any credit… he was a fine pitching coach). And when your 3/4/5 starters are routinely knocked out after 4 or 5 innings, there’s almost no way to manage a pen effectively; anybody who’s any good is going to be overworked.

I’m not a fan of the “1-inning max” philosophy that Bobby (and many other managers) have adopted for relievers. But that’s really just 21st century baseball, not Bobby Cox, IMO.

I agree that there have been a few really confounding moves made in the last couple of years; but I think if you look as closely at other teams as you do the Braves, you’ll find similar circumstances.

By etownbrave

March 24, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

Gary Caruso says in current issue of ChopTalk,that came in mail today, that a spokesperson for Peachtree TV said that their games would be available in the Braves region,but had no details. Said games were available for Comcast and Mediacom customers and Cox customers in Macon, GA. I am also stuck in that area that currently will not get the PTV broadcasts but do have local radio stations that carry the Braves until football season starts.

By Ellen

March 24, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

It’s ridiculous that I can watch almost every game of the two Chicago teams, but I can’t see a good chunk of games of the team just down the road. Can’t even do MLB.com because they black it out. Peachtree TV should have NEVER gotten a deal. If they can’t broadcast regionally, or heck even in the whole state of GA, they shouldn’t get any games.

As for the Glavine bashers, sure hope you’re wearing some tasty shoes when your foot ends up in your mouth. It’s time to grow up and get over it. He’s a Brave now and if you boo him now, one has to wonder what kind of Brave fan you really are.

By Bravesfan79

March 24, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

CHOPCHOP: that sucks man, im glad i have cable here in metro Atlanta. Radio is defenitly old school, but works!

And Lofton to the Braves is unlikely,him and Bobby have a history.

By DAP

March 24, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

Thank god for P-tree TV

hey, we paid for cable so we could watch 162 games. we have to PAY and only get 122 games. you get 40 for free? its not my fault you dont have cable. you live in ATL and could go to every game if you wanted.

By DAP

March 24, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

thanx ya’ll for the links about CSS carrying the games.

By Bob Dole

March 24, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

DOB, or whoever —

“Dark Star”…WTF? I do not know the slang. Please educate me.

By mark

March 24, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

This gfame was ugly today except some quality innings by Carlye….come on hitters wake up its almost time to start season….2 hits thats awful!

By Scuba-Steve

March 24, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

WOOGIDY, are you kidding?

By ernesto

March 24, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

It will be interesting to see what Wren can come up with in the next few days. It seems like their are a lot of overpriced names out there that could be had, but I think I’d rather see young talent play. I saw one comment on MLB Trade Rumors that was Yates to Detroit for Timo Perez. Puh-leeeze!

By Steve McP

March 24, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

texasbrave - the bullpen got used so much last year because of the lack of a worthwhile 4th and 5th starter in the rotation and so they were over used trying to get through games. Not Bobby’s fault he was getting 5 innings or less from 40% of the rotation.

By AJ

March 24, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

Hey Tomahawk Choppers..that starting rotation is looking rather sad. Smoltz down, Hampton soon to follow…not good. Santana-Pedro-Maine-Perez is looking mighty formidable. Look out especially for John Maine this year. Pitching lights out in Florida…and at 26 ready to take the next step to be among the elite level starters…an “ace” they say. You heard it here first!

By Gil in Mechanicsville

March 24, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave yeah, the bullpen was wasted because the starting rotation sucked….

By STRETCH

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

Isnt it funny how all of us live in different areas of the states and are having the same problem with watching games? All these network policies and area restrictions and blackouts, then throw in some licenses and bingo! The everybody but the lil people gets paid…we get laid!

I remember back in the late 70’s and early 80’s coming home from church and the Bravos would be on TV. Good or bad i was there! And i watched every since even in the late 90’s and early 00’s(when all this talk started about zoning and loose TBS). It sucks now…thats all i have to say.

By TheCutMan

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

First, we have Smoltz doing a head and shoulder fake around spring training with a special schedule and still not ready to go when they count, and now Kelly Johnson has been, “playing too much” and needs rest?

I’ve said it before many times and am tired of saying it now but where is the off-season conditioning program? This is the pre-season, for crying out loud!

If the guys aren’t in shape to get through the slap n’ tickle part of the season, what can we expect during the long hot summer and beyond?

Alot of these guys need to prepare for the season the way a boxer prepares for a big fight, but that’s asking too much for pampered players? Alas, so it is.

By Jersey Gil

March 24, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

Bravesfan79 Question? If the Games is on MLB Radio, if They block that game in the Atlanta Area to?

By OrlandoFan

March 24, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

I didn’t like Lofton’s acquisition the first time. I sure wouldn’t like it a second. And I think it was Robert(CIB) who wrote that Pena over Miller made some sense. I’ve been saying that. WIth five bench players, a one-diminensional one had better be a stud, in my view. I wonder if the pitchers have any voice in who might be the fifth-day catcher? If one starter prefers one of those guys, would that be a vote in the decision?

By Greg K.

March 24, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

Off topic, but this is fantastic!! It’s an NCAA-style bracket about MLB offseason trades/signings - which is the worst. Lot of fun.

http://mlbfleecefactor.com/2008/03/24/the-2008-sweet-sixteen-of-offseason-fleeces/

By Machado

March 24, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Try listening to Ramsay Midwood…I think you might like the sounds of this guy…

Have you also heard the new Braves songs playing on Peachtree TV? I heard a snipet the other day on a commercial. Not bad, but the hip-hop version is hot! I’m not the biggest rap fan around, but I was boppin my head and wondering if iTunes had it available for download. It’s catchy to say the least!

By Jim

March 24, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

Is there something about the Braves’ cleanup spot that acts like the Bermuda Triangle dragging down the BA of anybody who ventures into it? I know its only Spring Training, but I’d like to see this lineup begin to gel like we all expect it to. I think it’s time to leave the Hicks’ etc. over at the Minor League fields and get all the regulars at least 3 ABs/game so they are ready to start hitting when the season starts.

By NY Jay

March 24, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

DAP-

Good point-

Pitching and defense affect one another. Johan Santana is considered a flyball pitcher. John Maine is a groundball pitcher etc. Defense is determined by the type of pitcher.

When you have great defense in the outfield then a pitching mistake is easily erased. Hitters have their philosophy of waiting for a pitch or sitting on a fastball. There is always a pitch that can be mashed in any at-bat. It doesn’t have to be a mistake pitch.

However, there is a certain confidence a pitcher has when he knows he has great defense behind him. The pitcher may just throw free and easy and let the hitter hit to the defense.

If the philosophy is to make no mistakes then thats a ton of pressure on a staff that is mostly filled with guys that rely on location.

There were plenty times when Smoltz threw his best fastball down the middle and relied on Andruw to make a play. With that option now gone, will that make pitchers tense up or still throw free and easy even though the defense behind them is not the same.

What I’m really asking here is, will the Braves pitchers just pitch away and locate or will they trust kotsay to make a play that Andruw would and throw a fastball when they feel that a batter doesn’t have the bat speed to hit a homerun but he may hit it up the gap.

Pitchers need to feel secure that what they throw will be caught.

By Jersey Gil

March 24, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

I Just heard in the Radio that was one person in the ESPN Bracket that when 0-32 in there pick.WOW this guy live in other planet.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

TheCutMan, Kelly Johnson came to camp in great shape. What are you talking about? Oh, that’s right, diagnosing via soundbites from Cox and your opinion that offseason conditioning should eliminate all strains and injuries.

My man, the fields down here are like high school fields in a few places, hard as rock from the sun, wind and water restrictions. Between all the early work Kelly does almost every day, and the extra infield work early in camp, and then playing on hard fields like the one in Kissimmee (Astros), the guy’s got a sore knee. It’s not a big deal. You rest him now so it won’t be a factor when the season begins.

How does offseason conditioning prevent a sore knee? The guy’s got no extra weight, he’s as lean as you’d want a hitter to be.

By Thank god for P-tree TV

March 24, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

Thats ridiculous logic DAP. Just because I live in the vicinity doesn’t mean I can go to every game. If you’re so well off, why don’t you fly down and go see them yourself and quit whining like a little girl.

By woogidy

March 24, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

no not kidding, It’s on your antenna - 17-1 -

Cut and paste E-mail from P-Tree TV when asked: “What is the plan for Braves baseball in HD this season?”

Thank you for your correspondence. We appreciate hearing your views and welcome your suggestions.

We will air a total of 47 Braves games, 2 Exhibition and 45 regular season games, all in HD. All outlets will have the option to carry our HD signal, so please contact your provider directly to find out if they will carry the Peachtree TV HD signal.

Sincerely, Peachtree TV

By Bob Dole

March 24, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

EXPLAIN DARK STAR. BOB DOLE NO UNDERSTAND.

By TennesseePaul

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

flange1: Regarding your post from the previous blog. The proposition you stated in that post had Smoltz tossing 180 or less innings. Same with Glavine. In addition to a 6th man starting on their off day breaks. Smoltz’s option vests if he pitches 200 innings, anything less and technically he isn’t under contract for next season. They’d probably find a way around that though.
Jurrjens hasn’t pitched more than 143 innings in his life and you have him tossing 200+. That’d be great for this year, then he’d be useless next year. Absolutely ruined. Of course, that’s assuming he could pitch more than 140 innings without getting “tired”.

I find it amusing that after two years of watching our pitchers struggle to go 6 or 7 innings now there are a few posters hoping, planning, and excited about preventing our best pitchers from pitching often.
It’s like saying we want Chipper to be healthy for the post-season so we should only play him in 110 games and give the rest of the time to a player who is not Chipper. It’s a well meaning idea I suppose but you have to get to the post season before it even matters.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

Does any one remember Bobby handling rotation/pen as poorly as the last couple of years? I am not a Bobby Cox defeatist like Robert, but I don’t recall the pen being burnt out as much as it has been the last couple of years. Any theories as to why?TexasBrave

Yes, and it’s a pretty simple one: Their starters stunk more often than not when Hudson or Smoltz wasn’t on the mound. Cox was getting 3-4 innings out of much of cobbled-together rotation on too many nights last season, including the likes of Davies (4-8, 5.76 ERA in 17 starts), Cormier (2-6, 6.85 ERA in nine starts), Redman (0-4, 10.62 ERA in five starts), Lerew (0-2, 7.71 ERA in three starts) and Reyes (2-2, 6.46 ERA in 10 starts).

The man knows how to handle a rotation. I know that because everyone from Maddux to Burkett, Jaret Wright to Glavine, Smoltz to Damian Moss, has said so. In fact, several of those guys have said it was Cox’s handling of the rotation that had the biggest effect all those years on their performance and the team’s performance.

Now, unless you believe he’s lost it…. Personally, I think you probably should wait to see how he does with a real rotation again. This year’s, for instance.

By Tomahawkin

March 24, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

Word of Mouf from a Mets fan I’ve been shoutin at is that John Maine has looked better than Pedro…Thats not good, especially since it is noted that Maine and Oliver Perez are the Braves killers over the last 2 seasons, I just wonder if ESPN still wants to crown these guys to win the Pennant

And BTW…WTF is all the Glavine bashing going on about? People still want to diss the H.O.F.er when he could’ve signed elsewhere and got double of what the braves are paying him, Cheese-whiz…

By DCbrave

March 24, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

EXPLAIN DARK STAR. BOB DOLE NO UNDERSTAND- Bob dole

What do you want to know? They probably don’t sell viagra there.

By Gator

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

DOB, Can you remind me again why we didn’t get Clark for the back up job again? We should have gave him whatever he wants.

By Scuba-Steve

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

WOOGIDY

By Scuba-Steve

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

WOOGIDYOK COOL…THANKS..COMCAST DOESN’T CARRY IT THOUGH, DO THEY?

By flange1

March 24, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

10Paul,

Sorry, I don’t agree. If Glavine and Smoltz were 35 instead of 40+ and Hampton had pitched in 2 years, I might agree but they aren’t/haven’t.

JJJ pitched 143 last year, OK.

DO you remember Smoltz in the post season a couple of years back making a pitch and then walking around the mound because he hurt so much?

All I am saying is that we have Bennett and James that are decent pitchers and that we should use them too.

If your response is no, then let’s trade them! I am sure we can get an upgrade in LF or CF and let Diaz PH which is what he is best at any way.

There is no reason to hang on to Bennett and or Chuck if we are not going to use them.

Get creative, they both have options, move them back and forth between clubs, keep them both on the team, let the starters go 5 or 6 and if it is a blow out PULL the guy.

We can’t have our cake and eat it too. We can’t have Smoltz and Glavie and Hampton pitch 200 innings each and think that they will be fresh and ready for the playoffs.

By TexasBrave

March 24, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

DCbrave, TJ, Steve McP and Gil - I totally agree with you guys on the starting pitching not going far enough. However, I also believe that Bobby did not spread the work out evenly amongst the relievers either. Now I don’t have the numbers to back it up yet, but I a willing to bet that there is a big difference in the number of innings per reliever on last years squad.

I can understand that sometimes you might not have faith in all your relievers (Devine), but to not use him and others will cause more of a strain on the rest of the pen thus weakening the bullpen as a whole. I know a lot of the same situations came up last year but you don’t have to keep plugging in the same guys over and over.

Also agree with TJ that we need to stretch out some of the innings these guys pitch. The reason Bobby only uses a pitcher for one inning is to be able to bring him back the next day if needed and last year he did that a lot causing pitchers to be over worked.

By Lew

March 24, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

ChopChop-Don’t be so certain you wouldn’t get those Peachtree games on Extra Innings. They don’t always do the Braves’ feed. A good bit of the time they use the other teams’. I’ve only missed one or two Braves games a year, but I’m not sure how no TBS will impact that. Many TBS games were broadcast on Extra Innings, too, though, so it might not make any difference at all. Peachtree might also have worked something out with MLB.

By ROCHIE

March 24, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

the situation with mike gonzalez has been very quiet. Any word if hes ready in 2 MONTHS???????

By TennesseePaul

March 24, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

There is no reason to hang on to Bennett and or Chuck if we are not going to use them

Well here I’d disagree as well. Part of the benefit of retaining the services of Chuck and to a lesser extent Bennett is for future years, not just this year. After 2008 we have a rotation potential of Smoltz, Hudson, Jair, [blank], [blank]. Chuck would fit into that group. Same with Bennett. But that doesn’t sound too promising. Especially when factoring in the proposed pitching restrictions. Smoltz wouldn’t be under a guaranteed contract if held to less than 200 innings. Glavine isn’t certain to come back. Hampton certainly won’t be back. And pushing Jair well past any pitching usage he’s ever experienced reduces the likelihood that he’d be healthy or effective in the following season creating the possibility of a 2009 rotation of Hudson, Chuck, [blank], [blank], and [blank]. Trading our “depth” in pitching this year weakens the team this year and next year.

By TexasBrave

March 24, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

DOB I was talking more about the handling of the bullpen than the rotation (although there were a couple of times I wished he had let a starter go longer). No doubt the lack in innings per start put a strain on the pen, but then it was compounded by the fact that Bobby would generally only use 3 or 4 guys and not everyone equally. Yes I know some situations call for certain pitchers, but after a while you are going to have to trust that the other 3 guys are going to get it done or you are going to wear out everyone else.

By McFann

March 24, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

Good grief, TheCutMan, dry up. Can’t a guy get a sore knee without being jumped all over? Now, Smoltz’s shoulder’s a bit of a different matter because he’s only pitched one real game. But the fields down there must be awful. Besides, how cann some “conditioning” prevent sore joints from playing on a crummy field?

Nobody said it was your fault that the man has no cable, DAP. Sheesh, dude! If the guy doesn’t have cable, maybe he can’t afford to go to every game—not many people cann. Gee wiz, leave the guy alone!

By Fr. Guido Sarducci

March 24, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

Maybe you hear that a Johnna Smoltz gonna pitch in Rome. Everbody in the Vatican gonna be there to watch. The coliseum she gonna be full. Next Johnna gonna pitch in Sicilia. Maybe that nice Mike Piazza gonna catch the ball for him. Maybe.

By woogidy

March 24, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

no, comcast does not, yet. Stay tuned though. They like to add things without announcement. They may even broadcast them in HD on another channel. They used to have BravesHD channel(755), but it’s gone, and FSNHD is here. I am assuming the Braves games in HD on Sportsouth will be on this channel, maybe the Peachtree games. We’ll have to wait and see…

By Randy S

March 24, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

The Keith Hernandez episode of Seinfeld is on right now. Totally forgot that Roger McDowell was in there, the Second Spitter! Awesome stuff.

By Metropolitan Man

March 24, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

Great, Santana will not pitch against the braves tomorrow so you cant get a head start on gauging his change up. You better do what Chumper said and watch those Cleavland tapes form 07 against him.

NY Daily News:

Willie Randolph yesterday named Johan Santana his Opening Day starter on March 31 opposite Marlins lefthander Mark Hendrickson. Martinez and Oliver Perez will follow in the next two games in Miami, while John Maine gets the nod for the series opener in Atlanta after a day off. All signs then point to Pelfrey starting over El Duque on April 5, with Santana completing the six-game road trip. Martinez then should get the nod in the home opener against the Phillies on April 8.

By Gamecock Brave

March 24, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

Tenn Paul What makes you think Mike is certain not to be back? I can see a situation in which hepitches well this year and the Braves offer him a one or two year deal, not nearly at the salary he has now though.

By CharlieAlphaBravo

March 24, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

Hampton certainly won’t be back. TexasBrave

Not so fast. At his current price, the Braves definitely wouldn’t want to resign a 36-year-old southpaw who has missed the last two seasons, but a lot can change in a year. If (and this is a big if) Mike can stay healthy for a full season and put up good numbers (let’s say 160 IP, 3.00 ERA), he might be worth resigning for a much more modest price. He might even feel guilty enough about the last couple of seasons to accept a big hometown discount. If the Braves can sign him for 2-3 years for somewhere in the neighborhood of $6-8 million, it might not be a bad idea… But like I said, that’s a BIG if.

By Jon

March 24, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

Just clicked over to the new blog had to get some work done but just let me say, GOOD GOD!

What’s up with all the Bobby and Tom bashing?

Bobby Cox has done as well as any manager could have considering that he lost 2 hall of fame pitchers and had his payroll cut by crappy corp. ownership. His “poor” management of the pen is a figment of your imagination! Cox is one of the best manager is MLB history. Don’t even try that crap about only winning 1 WS. How many did he get us to? Using that flawed logic I guess Marv Levy was a crappy coach for the Bills because he made it to the SB four times and walked away a looser four times. That don’t hold water! No one in their right non-prejudiced mind could truly believe that.

Tom Glavine left the Braves because Time Warner would not pay him what the market said he was worth! I don’t know about you guys but I don’t still work for the same company that gave me my first job and if another company made me a better offer today because they valued my services more I would be gone. If any Braves fan boos Tom Glavine this year he is nothing more than a hypocrite.

By TexasBrave

March 24, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

CharlieAlphaBravo wasn’t me you were quoting but liked what you had to say. Agree if Mike has even a decent year and can be had at 8 mil or less then sign him. We are going to need a bridge especially if we lose both Glav and Smoltz.

By AJ

March 24, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

Metro Man: Only two games in Fla…..Santana and Pedro. Then day off….then Perez-Maine -Santana for 3 Braves games.

By Jon

March 24, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

MetMan You can bet that the Braves players have already studied every piece of Santana film they can get their hand on. No one and I mean NO ONE is taking the Mets rotation lightly. It is strong 1-3 as long as Pedro is healthy and all signs are that he is. I’m not sold on Perez as a “Brave Killer” yet although his numbers have been pretty good against us lately. His problem in the past is that he gives up to many HR. This year it seems we have the players to set the table in front of the original MET DESTROYER (old Larry himself). The additional protection that Tex will provide him for a full season should only further brew the hatred that the Shea faithful have towards good old Chip.

I’m not going to argue with any Met fan about Maine; he’s the real deal. Pelfrey and Hernandez should make you worry though. Read a report today on MLB.com I think that whoever caught him yesterday said that the radar gun readings on the majority of his pitches yesterday started with a 7. Not looking good for the previously ageless wonder.

The NL East is going to be hard fight all year! No one is going to just roll over and give it away, not the Mets, Phils or the Braves at least.

By RedandBlack

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

Hey DOB,

Have you ever listened to The Mundahs? Real good groovy tunes to check out if you have not already done so. The lead singer has Morrison/The Doors kind of sound. Good stuff.

Let us know about the new B-52’s release when you can. Go Braves!!

By Andy

March 24, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

Texas Brave: I agree with you buddy. Personally, I am a huge Cox fan, but I have to question his stubborness in my many situations last year that exposed the pen. Why did he keep throwing Wickman against the Marlins on the road in red hot weather? I kept thinking to myself, why not let Moylan close a few on the road?! Wickman was awful away from the Ted, yet Cox kept on throwing him out there. I am suprised Moylan’s arm is still attached. We would call up Devine, and he would sit in the pen. Cox had no confidence in him. I think that was a mistake. I also have to really blame Chuck James for never getting out of the 5th inning on most nights, Mike Redman’s 2 inning masterpieces, and Davies’ disasters.

Cox has mismanaged many extra inning games in the last few years. Throwing Kolb so much and Yates in tight situations, has realy killed us in close contests. He also refuses to move runners over. Our bunting the past few years have been awful!!

P.S Please get rid of Yates!!!!!!!

By TennesseePaul

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

But that’s fine with the Braves, who got him to be a No. 3 starter who can pitch close to 200 innings, something that only two Braves starters (aces Smoltz and Tim Hudson) did last season. No other Brave was even close.
—David O’Brien Thursday, November 22, 2007, 08:44 PM

I think that by setting the bar at 170-180 innings for Smoltz and Glavine and maybe 150 for Hampton.
JJJ and Hudson are younger let them go 200
—flang1

That’d leave us with only 2 starters reaching 200 innings which is exactly what we had last season. I will agree, getting 150 innings out of Hampton would be a blessing. I’m not expecting much out of him even with his great spring against a grab-bag of hitters. However Glavine and Smoltz are here to be work horses as well to some extent, along with Hudson. It’s nice to plan this way and that for the pitchers. I just don’t see Jair pitching that much without incident. I also don’t see everyone of Glavine’s or Smotlz’s starts going perfect allowing them to stay in for 7 innings or so. So while they may skip a start on occasion and reduce their overall innings this doesn’t mean the pen would be used less, it could actually be used more. Nothing says that Bennett every 6th day, or Chuck every 6th day is going to be good. The pen could spend half the game cleaning up for them. Then what’s to happen when Smoltz or Glavine struggle and only go a few innings shortly after. The pen is exposed again.
I guess my issue is this, after watching a starting staff struggle to pile up the innings, a necessity if one is to “protect the pen”, I find it disheartening that this pitching staff is built around the idea or goal of limiting the number of innings by the starting staff and banking on a handful of pitchers that, while talented, are unproven and therefore at high risk of not going deep when needed.
After an off-season analyzing the starting rotation and discovering that it could use some improvement, while praising a bull pen that ranked 2nd in ERA in the NL and 5th in innings pitched, we built a rotation that apparently only has 1 starter capable of 200 innings and the rest needing to skip starts or not expected to do too much. And this is exciting…? I don’t know. I’d be more excited if the innings eaters were going to eat the innings instead of passing off the left overs to the bullpen or a AAA call up.
I feel I should state again, for the record, that I think this team will compete for the Division Title even with this type of pitching arrangement. It’s a solid team. I’m just not thrilled with the idea. Probably in part because I’ve shelled out $160 to view every game and now it appears I’ll see less and less of my favorite player, Smoltz. At least Chipper aims to be in there as much as possible. And yes, McCann and Francoeur. Does McCann have his beard back? The guy looks solid with the beard.

In my research I also found this from Nov 12th:
Who is Sung Ki Jung? Glad you asked. He’s a Braves pitching prospect who spent three years in mandatory service with the South Korean Army before pitching for high-A Myrtle Beach and Double-A Miss this past season.
In 40 appearances, all he did was post a 1.30 ERA with 23 saves, 57 strikeouts, 13 walks and 31 hits (two homers) allowed in 48-1/3 innings. Yowza.
Something tells me the South Korean Army let him throw a little on the side over the past three seasons.
Might be a bullpen candidate, if not this spring then during the season. Also looking forward to him possibly getting into the game tonight, since Wren described his delivery as “funky” but left it at that. Anyone out there see him pitch this season? If so, what’s the funk
By David O’Brien | Monday, November 12, 2007, 08:56 PM

Should have done this sooner and I wouldn’t have had to ask the question the other day.

Gamecock Brave: I don’t know. Guts I guess. He could come back but I’m not banking on it. He may be brought back out of necessity. Next year the Braves will still need rotation work what with the potential turn over.

By SBowers

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

When I started the blog regarding Tom Glavine…there was no “bashing” I just wanted to know if there were other fans who had animosity toward him after the strike.

By Chop Chop

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

Lew -

I think the problem is that I live within the Braves territory. MLB has those damned territorial restrictions that prevent people from watching games that are televised locally in a MLB city. For example, I believe (although I’m not completely certain) that MLB also blacks out opposing teams’ broadcasts (even doing so on MLB.TV) if you happen to live in an area that could possibly access the local (in this case, Peachtree TV) broadcast. The Braves’ six-state territory (Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee) would all seem to be affected by this (this is one reason why it isn’t worth it for me to buy Extra Innings or MLB.TV to catch Braves games), so I guess that it will be up to cable providers to work out a deal (for this season or in future seasons) OR for people to get really mad and burn stuff.

I kinda like the “getting really mad and burning stuff” idea.

By McFann

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

You mean the the first time the Braves see the Mets is gonna be against Perez? Aw, crud: a lefty.

; )

Hey, and the NY Daily News doesn’t even know the Mets’ schedule? Weak.

Jon—

I got your back about Bobby Cox. People think Mike Ditka (or whatever his name is) was such a great coach, but he only won one Super Bowl! The Braves played a buncha cheaters in the WS—the Twins and their air conditioner, and picking up Gant off 1B to tag him out, for example. Not to mention, they played the Yankees how many times??

So lay off the man! He’s the greatest manager ever! The Braves wouldn’t be the Braves without Bobby Cox.

(BTW—who’s the winningest team since 1991??)

By Metropolitan Man

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

Jon: That was the most realistic assessment so far on this blog about the METS. That 5th spotfor the METS went from being no problem to uhhh-ohhh, is Freddy Garcia still available . I’m going to miss Smoltz because he is the ultimate competitor so if he cant go, then it cant be done. Without Smoltz, the braves can still possibly hang with the METS and philthies, but they wont have that guarenteed stopper that Smoltz has been when tailspins occur. Hopefully Maine, Santana, or even Pedro can be that for the METS but only Hudson and Smoltz can do that for the braves. Glavine, Hampton and your #5 keeps everybody in the NL east close, until one team gets as close to 100% health wise as possible. LETS GO METS!!!

By StingerSplash

March 24, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

To all DBT fans,

Happy Patterson Hood’s birthday. Shouldn’t this be a holiday or something?

By Gamecock Brave

March 24, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

Tenn Paul- Ill agree with you that Hamptons return may be out of need, but i dont share you less than optimistic views for our rotation. We have three guys that have proven that they are capable of gettin it done night in night out. The occasional rest day is to keep them fresh (being they are over 40) for the strach run and playoffs. So i dont have a problem with that, in fact i think its pretty smart. I think our main concerns should be more on the development of Jair and the health of Mike. I think alot of people’s optimism(including my own) have been on the heels of the fact Mike is healthy and ready to go, and Jair is showing why we got him in the first place. Im not really that worried about Jair because if you were gonna have a solid young guy in any rotation, it would be this one. He is backing up 4 vets with loads of experience and wisdom. He has very little pressure being the #5(essentially) and can pick the brains of the likes of Smoltz, Huddy, and Glav… I think he will be fine. Im excited for this rotation for this year, next year im a little worried but hey we have this year to go.

By Jon

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

Someone on here gave me good advice on Friday, can’t remember who, that I’m going to pass along. It is way too early to be worrying about 2009. Let’s get as far as we can this season; then worry about the potential rotation holes during the off season.

By gadawgs

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

dear larry, do you know Tommy Glavine as a person? i think NOT. if you did, you would eat every miserable word you said about him. get your facts straight, don’t just give your stupid opinion (based on the media ) on a FIRST CLASS person like Tom Glavine. he is so much more than what youhave so rudely said about him.

By AJ

March 24, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

Jon… Insightful blog. The Mets strength will be the rotation. The Braves have an edge in their lineup 1-8, especially if Jones can stay off the DL. That being said, I wouldn’t trade David Wright for anyone in baseball right now. He’s that good, and at 25, the already 2 time starting NL Allstar, gold glove winning 3rd baseman is getting better. He’s a stud!

By DonCoburleone

March 24, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

Metropolitan Man the Mets’ problem with the 5th spot in the rotation makes that Bannister for Burgos trade with KC last year look even better… Bannister would be the best 5th starter in baseball, hands down. But hey, Burgos has done really well for you guys so far right? LOL…

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

By the way, can you folks guess who Smoltz would face if he does pitch that Sunday afternoon, April 6?

Johan Santana.

By flange1

March 24, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

10Paul,

I see your argument. Really I don’t disagree in philosophy at all, I would love to see 200 innings from Smoltz, Hudson and Glavine, 170 from Hampton and JJJ.

I just think we are closer to end with Smoltz than we realize. Until the spring this year, I didn’t know he was hurting last year.

Same with Glavine, if Anders had not posted the same crap about Glavine everyday for what 200 days, I would not have realized how out of gas he was at the end of last year.

I feel your pain on the $$$ for the MLB package, heck I live in Atlanta and have season tickets, so you know I wrote a little check as well..

ANd I don’t know how you get Chuck and Bennett in more games. Do they start more or pitch 2-3 innings in relief regularly?

That is really my point, DOB said a bit earlier to watch Bobby manage a GOOD rotation this year.

I agree it is a GOOD rotation, but it is not like the days of Smoltz, Glavine Maddox and Avery, he is going to have to be on his toes to work THIS rotation correctly.

If anyone can do it, my faith is/always has been in Bobby.

I think the Braves have a chance to win the whole dang thing this year, but it will take Bobby doing his best job managing his pitching to make that happen.

Thoughts?

By CharlieAlphaBravo

March 24, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

My bad TexasBrave, you’re right, it was TennPaul I was quoting.

By mo in the boonies

March 24, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

McFann, they were hunting Easter eggs up here during a snow blizzard, and 2 feet of it on the ground.

Coach, thanks for the suggestions, but I do indeed have Direct TV, and dialup, so…. :>( Do you get a full screen picture on your monitor or is it like one of those video small screen things.

BravesFan79 Comcast isn’t available in our area. But I will also be able to watch WGN when the Braves play the Cubbies. sigh..

Dap, I can’t even get the games on the radio. (Can get the Tigers though) Thanks a lot TBS.

Lew, do you get the MLB package on Direct TV? Or do you have cable?

Alan, agree that Brandon Inge would be a great pickup for the braves, he is an excellent third baseman, and could prompt Chipper into not having too many twinges of the Obliques this year.

Why are the Braves hanging onto Thorman???

OH, BTW, DOB, incase you haven’t noticed, Peter King said complimentary things about you! (Big grin, and rolling eyes…)

By Jon

March 24, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

Metman Hold your horses and don’t get your hopes up too high. Smoltz has a little soreness in between his shoulder blades. No one said his right arm fell off! Smoltz will pitch! He might be on the DL up until April 6 but he’ll be back if for no other reason then to just annoy and worry Met fans like you.

Speaking of arms falling off, how’s Wagner? He’s got to worry you guys a little bit? He wasn’t the door closer he used to be by the end of last season. Was that just fatigue from being over worked or was that a sign that he’s not the closer he once was? Kind of like the sign John Franco should have seen about 5 years before he finally retired.

By jim Johnaon

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

the braves are going to need Schaefer very soon as a result of the preformance of Kotsay in center field. Go Braves

By Brayan Pena for Backup PAC

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

Heave Javy….HEAVED!

Sack Sammons

Can Corky

By TennesseePaul

March 24, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

Gamecock Brave: Yes. I see the well intention in the idea. I’m skeptical about it though.

We have three guys that have proven that they are capable of gettin it done night in night out.

At this point though, it is speculated that two of these three guys are not going to be allowed to get it done night in and night out.

The occasional rest day is to keep them fresh (being they are over 40) for the strach run and playoffs.

Assuming it doesn’t back fire and we’re out of the race by then. Every 6th day a AAA starter or long reliever steps in. Could get shelled, even without a shelling, this option retains a high probability of requiring a lot of innings from the pen in addition to what ever “normal” innings the pen would get the rest of the time.

Maybe you can’t win the division in the early part of the season but you sure can lose it.
Perhaps Glavine was “out of gas” due to the amount of pitching he contributed in the 10 games prior to his melt down and not the 15 games at the start of the season. Those 10 over lapped the stretch-run. I hope we don’t intend to skip our top of the rotation pitchers when it matters… but unfortunately they will be on a schedule of being skipped and it could be detrimental to their health to suddenly be pushed back into to heavy usage down the stretch.

There are other reasons I have as well but I’ve stated or implied them plenty already. I’m still a fan of the team and I’ll be cheering for them to win every night. Not going to bet on them winning every night, I’m not Pete Rose. But I’ll be cheering for them and I hope to see them in the post season. I just have my reservations. This team has to earn it. On paper they look good, but the papers fly out the window once the season starts. They gotta do it on the field at that point.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

Redland Black, haven’t heard of the Mundahs. Where are they from?

As for the new B-52s, uh, I’m gonna have to leave that one up to you to review.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

Maybe you hear that a Johnna Smoltz gonna pitch in Rome. Everbody in the Vatican gonna be there to watch. The coliseum she gonna be full. Next Johnna gonna pitch in Sicilia. Maybe that nice Mike Piazza gonna catch the ball for him. Maybe.Father Guido Sarducci

Maybe I’ve been out in the sun too long, or worked too many days and been to too many little Florida towns. But this post actually made me laugh.

I need to get home.

By Jared

March 24, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

I feel that it is my duty to provide some balance to Metropolitan Man’s one-sided anecdotes. Let me preface my discussion by quickly reasserting a familiar theme of my previous posts here: Metropolitan Man’s delirious posts often resemble an inverted fairy tale in that the triumph of innocence comes at the start and the ugly sisters of antipluralism and careerism enter on stage in triumph for the final curtain. One can examine this from another angle and plainly see that we must encourage our spirits to soar. Only then can a society free of his maladroit, malodorous inveracities blossom forth from the roots of the past. And only then will people come to understand that when I hear his sympathizers parrot the party line — that he is entitled to calumniate helpless ingrates — I see them not as people but as machines. The appropriate noises are coming out of their larynges, but their brains are not involved as they would be if they were thinking about how when Metropolitan Man’s exploitative utterances are translated into plain, words-mean-things English, he appears to be saying that courtesy and manners don’t count for anything. For me, this inimical moonshine serves only to emphasize how we have a choice. Either we let ourselves be led like lambs to the slaughter by Metropolitan Man and his yes-men or we hammer out solutions on the anvil of discourse. While I don’t expect you to have much trouble making up your mind you should nevertheless consider that it is irresponsible to accept everything at face value. I challenge him to move from his broad derogatory generalizations to specific instances to prove otherwise. Nobody ever went broke underestimating Metropolitan Man’s intelligence. So I give you this letter. I hope it helps.

By TennesseePaul

March 24, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

flange1: I guess after the last two seasons of getting my hopes dashed to pieces, and then being completely over joyed watching the Mets stink it up in the post season and down the stretch, I feel the need to temper my expectations to allow for less medical attention towards October.

Seriously though, this team is good. I don’t know about the post season results. Still not sure they’ll put up a good fight against the NL West teams in a post season format, or beat the AL team in the World Series. But they should be in the race the whole season. I suppose if I take the “crap shoot” point of view then they have just as good a shot as any team in the post season. It’s a balanced team that’s for sure. The injury risks are less than most teams and the position to position strength is on par or better than most of the other teams in the league. I like the chances better than last year. The line up has an aura of 2003 about it in some aspects and the rotation is solid… I need the real games to start though. Then I’ll be fired up. Toss all the paper work out the window and start looking at what’s actually going down on the field.

By mo in the boonies

March 24, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this

TennPaul I see where you’re coming from…what hurt the team a lot last season were the games they lost at the beginning of the season. Where they got so far behind that they couldn’t catch up. We sure don’t want a repeat of that this year.

John Smoltz has always been my favorite ball player, but the comment made on the Vent today about “playing so much golf could have some bearing on his shoulder problems” might indeed be true. He may have to decide what is more important to him, Golf or Baseball.

By Randy S

March 24, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this

Funny story about the B-52s (kind of). They were in Athens last summer recording their new album. Word came out one day that they were going to be playing at a small bar that night. So, of course, I went. As did a few Athens musicians. All the members from of Montreal were there. Then walked in Michael Stipe and Mike Mills. Seeing Stipe was nothing shocking, but I had never seen Mills out in Athens. The really odd part came when I saw some bearded fellow in the corner. He looked strangely familiar….because he was Sean Lennon (he happened to be in town playing a show that night). So there I am, talking to one of my favorite bands (of Montreal) as Mike Mills chats with Sean Lennon. All the while Michael Stipe is standing on a couch to try and see the band. Turns out the B-52s never showed up (Pylon played instead), but it was a mindfrick of an evening nonetheless.

By BravesFanChris23

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

Stretch

I read you live in Pensacola, I do as well. As far as the MLB Extra Innings package goes, I’m pretty sure the games on Peach Tree TV should be aired via other team’s feed.

I mentioned a few blogs ago that on MLB Extra Innings package when the games were on TBS/Sports South and even weren’t on either, they showed the game on the other team’s station feed.

A few games against Dodgers and Nationals as well. I don’t know if it’ll change or something like that, but if its like last year, then the Peach Tree TV games may air on it via that way.

By 18 Wheels of Love

March 24, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

While we are sharing REM stories…

I got to hang out with Bill Berry at a golf function right before he left REM. Cool dude. We ended up having a mutual friend who did his investments. Also stayed up way too late that same night with Johnny Drama. That’s one crazy fella.

By DAP

March 24, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

Thank god for P-tree TV

if i lived in atlanta, id definetly have season tickets. i will be making the trek for my share of home games.

if i decided not to buy cable, like you have, i wouldnt see any games at all. let us cable buyers complain about missing the games if we want.

By Rooster

March 24, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this

here again are the braves options at the trade deadline. What you think DOB.
1. Chad Tracy - coming off of injury offers power and insurance at 1st and 3rd. 2. Tony Clark - braves beater in the past, serves as a back up at 1st and PH 3. Rich Aurilia - Although old still has a little power and can be insurance for 1st and 3rd. 4. Ronnie Belliard - Look at Spring stats he would be welcomed. 5. Matt Stairs - He may be old but still is very productive and can play outfield and 1st base.

By Rooster

March 24, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

here again are the braves options at the trade deadline. What you think DOB.
1. Chad Tracy - coming off of injury offers power and insurance at 1st and 3rd. 2. Tony Clark - braves beater in the past, serves as a back up at 1st and PH 3. Rich Aurilia - Although old still has a little power and can be insurance for 1st and 3rd. 4. Ronnie Belliard - Look at Spring stats he would be welcomed. 5. Matt Stairs - He may be old but still is very productive and can play outfield and 1st base.

By Rooster

March 24, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

Here are the possibilities at the possible trades. What you think DOB.
1. Chad Tracy - coming off of injury offers power and insurance at 1st and 3rd. 2. Tony Clark - braves beater in the past, serves as a back up at 1st and PH 3. Rich Aurilia - Although old still has a little power and can be insurance for 1st and 3rd. 4. Ronnie Belliard - Look at Spring stats he would be welcomed. 5. Matt Stairs - He may be old but still is very productive and can play outfield and 1st base.

By McFann

March 24, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

mo in the boonies—

Easter egg hunting in snow? Cool! Hey, it wouldn’t be hard to hide ‘em—just bury ‘em in the snow! (Course, then somebody might step on a few and wind up with some very sad jelly beans…)

And you’re sooo correct about Smoltz and his golf. My mother and brother especially say that all the time about him needing to decide between golf and baseball. Whenever I hear/read about him playing with Tiger, I want to puke.

As for this talk about bloggers bashing Glavine, I have only his to say: He didn’t have to get more money. Goodness knows that no player in this day and age needs more money than they are getting. Heck, a lot—if not all—of them should be making less money. If he loved Atlanta so much, he would have taken less money. Look at Chipper. Now, granted, the guy makes a lot of money, but he’s taken pay-cuts before to open up payroll. He’d never leave here for more money. I know he wouldn’t! If a player loves his team as much as Tom says he loves Atlanta, than why would they leave like that? One word: GREED.

Now, I’m not saying I’m going to boo Glavine if my family and I happen to go to a game that he starts, I’m just sayin’ why some other people might.

By McFann

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

Rooster—

Ronnie Belliard would have to have a serious hair cut before he’d be welcome here, IMO.

8 )

By DAP

March 24, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

mo in the boonies I can’t even get the games on the radio. (Can get the Tigers though) Thanks a lot TBS.

dude, that sucks. thats why im really glad i dont live out-of-market.

mccfann i understand not everyone can afford cable, or to go to alot of home games. thats fine. all i heard was “you guys are jerks for wanting to see the only 47 games im gonna miss! pity me!!!” and no, im not gonna pity him. it really sux he cant see 115 games, but it also sux that i cant see those 47.

By Rooster

March 24, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this

Just look at Manny Rameriez (hair comment); hey if Belliard can hit in the clutch bring the dude to the ATL!!!!!!!!!!!

By Robert

March 24, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this

I wonder if the Braves could get Ian Stewart from the Rockies. He is blocked by Atkins, Hawpe, and Helton.

By Robert

March 24, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this

I wonder if the Braves could get Ian Stewart from the Rockies. He is blocked by Atkins, Hawpe, and Helton.

By chuckaluck

March 24, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

To anyone: I am going to the last spring game at Disney on Thursday. Can you get tickets at the stadium or is it best to get online? Any tips would be appreciated.

By KC

March 24, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

DOB: Santana is the opening day starter for the Mets, right?

If so, and if he stays on regular 4-day-rest rotation… he would start on Saturday.

Did you hear something to indicated he’ll be pitching on Sunday the 6th instead?

By Rooster

March 24, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

There is no way that the Mets will win the East. They have no pitching and coaching. Phils and Braves will fight to the end. This Braves team is brewing something special, if you don’t believe me just look at Mr. HAMPTON. If Hampton returns to form we instantly have three number one starters. (Hudson, Smoltz and Hampton) Cross your fingers cause a healthy starting 5 means WORLD SERIES GOLD IN 2008. Up yours ESPN Braves are the Beast of the East. GO BRAVES!!!!1

By bruce

March 24, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

Dave: Are you thinking of going to Detroit for Friday night? I have given it some thought. Went to Davidson and travelled some with the team back in the mid seventies as an assistant manager. Thought I was going to be a HS coach, wanted to learn how to teach the game. Thanks, Bruce

By Lew

March 24, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

ChopChop-There’s always XM radio. They carry every game of every team all season. No picture, but you’ll t least get the game. But then again, you probably live within range of radio coverage, anyway.

Mo-I’ve got Comcast.

By Greg in TN

March 24, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

Evening denizens…

Counting down the days folks. One week from tonight I’ll be sitting at the Ted watching Tom Glavine take the mound for the home opener against Ian Snell (thanks for the head’s up DOB on who the Pirates will line up for the first three home games).

Opening day of the season to this denizen is like Christmas was when I was a kid. The anticipation leading up to it is almost unbearable, but that day it’s impossible to wipe the smile off my face.

Jake Westbrook certainly looked to be dealing today from the accounts from DOB and Planet Braves and after a quick glance of the box score. And it’s ironic now that most of us had penciled Tyler Yates on a Delta flight out of Atlanta (with a new sassy safety video according to AJC) that he winds up pitching his best inning of the spring. Buddy Carlyle pitched well as did Will Ohman. Today’s Drese-esque meltdown on the mound was courtesy of Jeff Ridgway, who looks to be likely heading to Virginia to begin the season rather than the Beltway.

Smoltz’s stint on the DL is certainly inevitable, however I don’t see it as anything more ominous than a little soreness for the Autumnal Warrior from Warren MI. Glad to see KJ get a well deserved day off. Folks that don’t understand the toll that a hard infield takes in terms of scrapes and bruises ought to go out and take some grounders on asphalt someday. I’ve seen a few infields that could have been lined and used as parking lots.

Frank Wren will be burning up the long distance lines in the next few days. Yates’ aforementioned inning today might sweeten the pot some in terms of what he could get back, or it could even lead to a decision to keep him despite the pleas to do otherwise by denizens in recent days. I don’t have a gut feeling for how this will end up, but will be watching for developments.

I don’t know if the Braves will bring Wes Helms back for a second tour of duty with the team. Teams are much less inclined to deal within their division than what they used to (and I can’t really blame them myself), however I do agree with DOB that Helms is a viable plan B if other irons in the fire cool.

Good news to this Tennessee based denizen that the Peachtree TV games will be picked up by CSS, and believe me, I am happy to have that option, although listening to the game on the radio isn’t a bad option at all IMO, however to me, it’s just not the same as “the good old days” when all one had to do was dial up TBS after Carol Burnett and watch baseball with Pete, Skip, Ernie and whatever recently retired player rounded out the broadcast team (Billy Sample, Don, Joe Simpson these days).

My apologies, I’m a little chattier today than usual, then again, opening night is almost here and I can just about taste the dogs and the peanuts already.

By McFann

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

DAP—

It’s 45 games.

Rooster—

Oh yeah, Manny’s got the worst hair in baseball! What are those, dreadlocks? YUCK!

By Kevin

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

chuchaluck Some buddies and I went to some games down there and we got tickets at the stadium both times. They weren’t sold out or anything and there seemed to be plenty of seats available. Hope that helps.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

KC, yes, a Mets beat writer called me tonight and told me that Santana would pitch Sunday. He called to ask about Smoltz….

Rooster, regarding your trade “options” for Braves:

Chad Tracy is not going to be ready to start the season because he’s still recovering from Sept. micro-fracture knee surgery and hasn’t played in a spring game. That, plus the Diamondbacks have given no indication he’s available. They’re not looking to trade him after signing him to an affordable three-year, $13.25 mill extension before last season, which also contains a $7 mill option for 2010.

Tony Clark signed a $900,000 contract with his hometown San Diego Padres in February; they hve no interest in trading him, at least none I’ve heard about. Why would they? He’s a bargain. By the way, he was very excited to sign with Padres, not just because he grew up out there and they trade six minutes from his Phoenix home (I’ve said before, he’d have been tremendous addition for the Braves).

Rich Aurilia is 36, is making $4.5 million this season, and hit .252 with 5 homers and a .304 OBP in 329 at-bats last season.

Matt Stairs had a good year in 2007, after a bad one with three teams in 2006. He’s been a “professional hitter” a long time. A very long time. He’s 40. Don’t know what reports are on him this spring.

Ronnie Belliard would not seem a good fit for the Braves’ needs. He’s 5-8 and doesn’t play 1B (played it there in emergencies last year, for first time in his career). He’s a second baseman.

By Jason

March 24, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

i sure miss andruw jones out in center. kotsay sucks really bad. i mean two years ago andruw led the league in almost every catorgie. but no one can touch his defense

By Jason

March 24, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

i sure miss andruw jones out in center. kotsay sucks really bad. i mean two years ago andruw led the league in almost every catorgie. but no one can touch his defense

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

Chuckaluck, you can buy tickets at gate. Very few weekday day games sell out, though that is the Mets and spring break is going on. You might want to call them just to make sure they aren’t close to a sellout.

By chuckaluck

March 24, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

Kevin: Thanks. That’s what I was thinking. It does help.

By keylargo

March 24, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

The NFL has a vote this week to possibly ban the hair flowing out of helmets. MLB will have to address this soon.

By Bravetiger

March 24, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

Greg in TN - Thanks for the great news. I’m in Alabama and I had given up the fact I would not see games on Peach TV. But after reading your post from 8:45, I checked the CSS website and found out that games on PTV will be shown on CSS in Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina and in Georgia (outside of Atlanta metro area).

By Yars

March 24, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

If you live in the South, & your local cable provider is Comcast, you should have a channel called CSS. It broadcast sports stuff, mostly college sports. However, in my area, (I live in West TN) they will be showing those Braves games that would otherwise be on Peachtree TV. Those of you that have Comcast as your cable provider need to check to see if that channel CSS will be televising those Peachtree TV games.

By Peter King

March 24, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

Great Job DOB

Did you see the Kudos I gave you this week in my MMQ?

Smoltz will be fine……

By Rick M

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

Guys,

I haven’t had the pleasure or perhaps “displeasure” of watching Kotsay stink it up in CF today or any other day as I can’t watch until my MLB package starts. I imagine I’d be irritated, too. That being said, the guy has either lost it overnight or just a bad game or 2 as he’s a solid defensive player. Remember, nobody wanted AJ and his atrocious “leg breaking knee popping twisting swings. Maybe someone should have told him the MILLION DOLLAR contest for hitting the COKE BOTTLE area was over a long time ago. I miss AJ but for all his talent, he’s wasted so much more. It’s amazing he can speak 7 or so differemt langauges but just could not understand the logic of hitting the ball to RF. You’d think with all the tapes he’d get it. I’d take Inge all the Tigers hands and give them a relief pitcher and catcher PROVIDED the Tigers ate most of his salary. Unlikely, but you never know. Inge adds more flexibility to the team for any future move. Perhaps we trade a more offensive talent like a KJ in exchange for more pitching. We have decent enough hitting - we need more solid pitching.

By Metropolitan Man

March 24, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

By DonCoburleone

Man why you have to bring up Bannister. Thats just as bad as bringing up Kazmir. METS fans will never get over those two, they could have really helped this team the past 3 years. Oh well Minaya has to answer for Bannister but Kazmir was on S. Phillips watch. Anyway they would be welcomed right now especially while they are still cheap and arent going anywhere. When they are free agents, the METS will have to overspend to get them back…..the circle of life continues.

By bravesare#1

March 24, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this

Ok will I get Peachtree TV? I have Directv, and I get SportsSouth, FSN, and I used to get Turner South. I live a little below Macon, GA.

By N8

March 24, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

Jason

March 24, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

“i sure miss andruw jones out in center. kotsay sucks really bad.”

Andruw, unfortunately, has gotten really good at sucking too……sucking down 3 Big Macs in one sitting, that is. Judging by his new waste line.

By keylargo

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

Directv seems to be to best service - for $180 - $230 per year. Others are available.

By Metropolitan Man

March 24, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

By Jon

I’m not concerned with Smoltz, the braves should be. If he cant go, its a bonus for us. He is the only braves that can garner respect from METS fans. We know he doenst like the METS but its not as evident as say a Chumper Jones. He is the ultimate gamer and would have been loved by any city he pitched for. Besides, who wouldnt want to see the Santana/Smoltz games. I mean the Glavine vs Smoltz game was a joke in your favor. The Pedro vs Smoltz were classics but not enough of those were played. No more steroids so the dominating pitchers should dominate the hitter this year.

Wagner has more mouth than arm now so lets hope somebody shuts him up. (Thats all I have to say about that)

Hurry up Opening Day!!!

By Gamecock Brave

March 24, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

Cmon guys, at least give Kots a shot here. The guy has been a quality CF for a while now. Its spring training, in little stadiums in FLA. If he is makin dumb plays when it counts, then go ahead and blast the guy… Ive watched him over the last couple of years (mostly fantasy related).. but the guy can play and we wouldn’t haven gotten him if we didnt think he would help the club. I think we have all been spoiled by the greatness of Andruws defense, but Kotsay’s isn’t too shabby.

By 18 Wheels of Love

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

DOB

Serious music question….if offered a chance to see Francis Dunnery perform a private party at someone’s house for 50 folks, do you go?

By Greg in TN

March 24, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Bravetiger Happy to help. There were some posts earlier today that CSS was hinting about having something ready and saw their announcement when I checked their website link.

bravesare#1 Not sure that the Peachtree signal will go that far south, however you could try and get the signal “old school” style trying an antenna out (keeping the receipt in case it doesn’t work so you can get your money back). That is, unless a station closer to Macon and that is carried by Direct makes an affiliate agreement with Peachtree.

By The Burger King

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

Andruw looks fine, n8. He was in here the other day, and he only had TWO double whoppers.

By keylargo

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

In Kotsay’s defense, the wind in Florida is usually howling at 15 to 25 mph this time of year. It can change the flight of a long, high fly ball by 50 feet from where it would land on a calm day. All pro stadiums now are enclosed to some extent which keeps the flight of the ball fairly true. while the ST Stadiums are mostly open and are more affected by the wind. A different stadium layout every day can and will confuse even a good MLB player.

By Anders

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

Just back from an early spring vacation and what do I discover? Smoltz is ailing! Yikes. I mean at least Seabiscuit showed up for the big race.

And now Glavine is pitching the home opener - Batting 9th and pitching, number 47 - Benedict Arnold.

Followed by polite , nervous applause.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

So Kotsay gets turned around on a play yesterday (bad play, no question), then gets fooled on a very windy day today on a ball that took off and kept going to the warning track, then he stinks? Oh, OK.

I’ve head that a lot about Kotsay, that he stinks defensively. All the time. Ask anybody in baseball, either league he’s played in in the past decade, opponents or teammate, and let me know when someone has said he’s not good defensively. Unless he’s all of a sudden gotten bad because of his back surgery or something? He’s running fine, but he’s no longer a good OF?

That theory really make much sense, does it?

If Kotsay doesn’t cut it this year, it’ll be because he doesn’t hit. Defense? I’d doubt that’ll be a problem, long as he’s as healthy as he is now.

Ask Francoeur how bad that wind was today. He looked just as bad on the ball that landed in front of him and bounced over the RF wall. The wind was legit, folks.

And just FYI, et me give you the quote from Cox this morning when an AP writer asked him about Kotsay:

“Real smooth in the outfield. He’s the most accurate thrower I’ve ever seen.”

Someone then asked, really?

“Yes, absolutely,” Cox said. “On the money every time. He’s not a gunner, but he’s very accurate.”

By bravesare#1

March 24, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this

Greg in TN, what does this mean?

TBS was broadcasting Braves games on their Superstation for years. This year TBS is now PeachTree broadcasting in Atlanta, but they also holds the rights to broadcast SOME Braves games in Braves territory (the old Turner South territory) in addition to Atlanta.

We are working with PeachTree to get a deal done. I’ve spoken to that group today to see if it’s ok to let this information out on this community and we got that approval.

Basically what will happen is Braves game in Atlanta will be on Peach Tree locally in SD. HD not sure just yet but that is also a possibility.

The old Turner South territory will have 47 games available for DIRECTV customers in that territory in SD and HD.

Furthermore, these games will also be available on MLB Extra Innings for Braves fans nationwide that are not part of the Braves territory or the Atlanta DMA.

By David O'Brien

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

18 Wheels of Love: Who charges $50 to attend a party at their house?

By BA

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

How could any waterhead Mets fan say they don’t respect Chipper Jones? The man has shamed your franchise repeatedly! He won a MVP by exploiting your pitching staff in YOUR crime ridden, drug infested city! The only person to bring more shame to NY than Hoss might be David Cone. Or that powderhead Strawberry.

By Pete Incavilia

March 24, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

Kotsay’s solid defensively. Like me, but only in center. I heard the Braves might trade him for Wes Helms!

By Metropolitan Man

March 24, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

Jared:

Just curious about your post. They dont need to be simplified, just erased and burned. Is there something you want to ask, go ahead but the crazy soliloquy that comes from you has to stop. Do you actully enjoy baseball??

By 18 Wheels of Love

March 24, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

Not $50, limited to 50 people. Interested in your opinion of Dunnery.

By David O'Brien

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

Apropos of nothing, we present Juan Pierre’s spring stats: .188 (13-for-69) with three doubles, four RBI, .253 OBP, .232 slugging.

And the stats of Dodgers OF Jason Repko, who’ll probably be sent down soon (they say they’re only keeping 4 OFs): .343 (12-for-35) with two doubles, two homers, 13 RBI, a .455 OBP and .571 slugging.

By Randy S

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

Levon Helm has started charging for people to come up to his house and hear his band play. Actually pretty darn cool, calls them the Midnight Rambles. Started as basically a rent party but has evolved into a regular concert type party. Had Medeski, Martin and Wood up there earleir this year.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

Just back from an early spring vacation and what do I discover? Smoltz is ailing! Yikes. I mean at least Seabiscuit showed up for the big race.Anders

Just curious, where exactly does a supposed baseball fan go on vacation in early spring and not have internet access of exposure to TV or newspapers with sports sections that cover American sports?

By uga-brave

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

assuming kelly is healthy, anyone else concerned by the fact he has one extra base hit in 50 at bats?

By Metropolitan Man

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

BA:

Chumper has his place in baseball. He is the guy I and many METS fans love to hate and for good reason. However he was to stick it to other teams like he does the METS, then a little more respect migh be do. He is good at what he does no doubt, but at the METS expense makes him a public enemy number one (when he is healthy).

As far as Strawberry and Cone goes, they played the game and earned multiple rings, but hey all you remember is the druggin’ and boozin’.

By Anders

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

DOB

Kotsay is at least a step down and probably more than AJ defensively which as a Met fan will be a relief. Center field was where all balls went to die against the Braves the last 12 years or so. I get that’s not the reason the change was made but I’m willing to trade down AJ’s glove for an average to just above average player at this point of his career if he can stay healthy.

BTW- What’s the latest on Soriano? I’ve been away and haven’t seen or heard anything about him.

By Greg in TN

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

bravesare#1 From what you’ve posted, it sounds like Direct does have an agreement in place with Peachtree to carry the 47 games since you used to get the Turner South signal. I would recommend contacting Direct for confirmation and to find out on which channel they’ll be carrying those games.

By Gwinett Madam

March 24, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this

I used to charge at LEAST fifty, and that was on half-price nights.

By JimD

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

uga-brave: “*assuming kelly is healthy, anyone else concerned by the fact he has one extra base hit in 50 at bats?”

no

By 18 Wheels of Love

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

Santana3247…Post of the Decade, man!

By Metropolitan Man

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

Sad a native NY has to tell you this. Unplugg your cable, hook up the rabbit ears and watch Peachtree TV on channel 17, the old TBS. That way you can watch the braves lose 47 games on TV. I’ve probably watched more braves games living in GA then braves fans. I know my enemy so well, but you guys are fading. I may have to take the disgust to the philthies if you guys cant keep up with the METS and philthies.

By Epinephrine

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

Hahaha, DOB and others, you will all get a kick out of this. Check out the wikipedia entry for Joe Sheehan, author of baseball prospectus.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Sheehan

Of note, in the first line under career “Joe Sheehan is widely known as a dumb[!@@] for believing that Yunel Escobar is a glorified utility player who peaked in 2007. This is probably the most idiotic statement ever.”

He also predicts Glavine will pitch 93 innings. Absurd until I read that he is from NYC. Hopefully Glav will rub it in his face in the first series against the Mets.

By Austin

March 24, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

DOB

As far as Escobar and Renteria go which one f them has better overall speed? It’s hard to compare by just watching them play on t.v.

Thanks

By uga-brave

March 24, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

JimD,

you may be right, but if he does the same thing over his first 50 ab’s of the season, dont be suprised if prado is not playing against some lefty’s.

By BA

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

The man hit .337 last year. that includes teams other than the choking dog Mets. And be fair, I also remember Cone playing peek a boo in the Mets bullpen with unsuspecting fans looking on! If the Mets players like Beltran and Reyes had any guts, they could have a year like Hoss. These guys won’t even run out grounders! Hey, has Pedro faked an injury yet, or is he going to wait for the all-star break?

By BA

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

Escobar has better pure speed and certainly a larger range defensively. Edgar knew his limitations, and he rarely made ANY mental mistakes defensively. Edgar, when healthy, has better than average speed on the bases. Escobar is probably faster, and is fundementally SOLID on the bases.

By JimD

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

uga-brave, when I think of Kelly Johnson, I think of the absolutely woeful slump he had when he was the LF in 05. Cox stuck with him through what seemed like an 0 for 1,000,000 strectch, all because he liked his swing and beleived KJ would turn it around. He did to some degree, he had a hot tear, then cooled again.

But, that said, I think Cox likes him and will stick with him no matter what. His sharing time with Escobar last year had so much more to do with Esco’s ability than with KJ’s slump.

By Anders

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

DOB

Just curious, where exactly does a supposed baseball fan go on vacation in early spring and not have internet access of exposure to TV or newspapers with sports sections that cover American sports?

What’s your problem? I was away visiting family in Midlothian Va. and didn’t go on line or read a paper while I was there. I did watch some NHL hockey (they have the NHL package) and I watched a little NCAA b’ball and some ESPN as time permitted. The Smoltz news didn’t hit any of those outlets. As you can imagine the NCAA’s updates and panels were wall to wall on all the ESPN channels, baseball was scarce-scores only.

I don’t make my living following MLB so I can leave it behind from time to time even as an avid baseball fan.

Why do you always question my travel habits? Even a supposed professional like yourself knows it’s healthy to get away from everything once in a while.

As a matter of fact it sounds like that time has come for you. I know a family in Midlothian that would be more than happy to have you for a few days. And don’t worry about the Braves pulling the triple A team out of the area - nobody there seems to care.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

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

Just a few REAL viable trade options that the Braves might be looking at :

Wes Helms , Marcus Thames or maybe Morgan Ensberg.

By BA

March 24, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this

I don’t think KJ is headed for a platoon. Last year he showed the ability to come out of slumps and remain at least consistent. What people forget about KJ is the guy can walk almost at will. Even when he isn’t hitting, he is always on base. And full time, I think he has twenty homer power.

By 18 Wheels of Love

March 24, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this

Anders,

Go take a walk, man.

By uga-brave

March 24, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this

JimD,

agree again, but kelly’s going to be counted on to be one of the cogs on offense. i think it is pretty fair to say that the two guys that are being counted on the most to step up this season and reach the next level are K.J. and FRANCOEUR.

hard to believe we were 12th in the national league in hr’s by outfielders last year.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this

Austin, Escobar has better speed and range than Edgar. But Escobar isn’t a blazing runner. He’s quick, more than fast, if that makes sense. Quickness and athleticism is what gives him his range.

Edgar was quick at Escobar’s age, too. But he never had Escobar’s overall skills, at least I don’t remember him having them. Edgar was/is a very smart, sound player. Escobar’s got a lot more flash.

By BravesFanInRockies

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

Austin,

Agree with BA. If you’re wondering whether Yunel will be a basestealing threat, well, probably not. No J-Rol or Reyes impressions. There’s no reason he won’t be a solid baserunner otherwise, however. And he clearly has more range than Edgar (at least the 2008 version of Edgar). And an arm. What an arm.

By i cant take it anymore

March 24, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

lets start a collection to send anders back on vacation to Midlothian.

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

Randy S, that Levon Helm barn party jam, now THAT is something I’d pay $50 for. Read about that a while back, sounds incredible.

18 Wheels of Love, I don’t have any Francis Dunnery, to be honest. But I’ve read good things about him and I think I listened to one of his CDs on the headphones at a music store a while back and liked it (but didn’t buy it, for whatever reason). Who’s he comparable to?…

Why do you always question my travel habits?Anders

Uhh … what?

Actually, nevermind. Already way more information than needed.

By Braveheart

March 24, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

18WheelsofLove,

You don’t tell someone to take a walk.

You tell them to take a long walk off a short pier.

By Randy S

March 24, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

I just read the piece on Escobar and I absolutely love that he worked out with Renteria this winter (I had read that before, but had forgotten). It shows how classy of a guy Renteria is. That kind of selflessness is greatly appreciated. I am glad the Braves don’t have to deal with the Tigers this year but I wish that Edgar would get a chance to come back to the Ted and get a standing ovation. He made a fantastic impression in a very short time. Solid player. Solid guy.

By Metropolitan Man

March 24, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

Hey BA, whats with the Chumper man crush. I mean the guys you mentioned play more games then your boy so wheres the beef???

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

Coach, I like all three of those options for a bench role, but especially Thames, far more than the others (and he’d cost more in trade, obviously, but he’d be worth it). He’d be a nice fit if you moved Thorman.

Frank and Dave D. (Dombrowski) go way back, and they spent a lot of time talking on the field at Disney before the game the other day. Tigers have really been looking all spring at Braves relievers, and Dave loves power arms like Resop and Boyer (or maybe even Yates, if they had a scout there today, which they probably did).

By David O'Brien

March 24, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

Randy S, Edgar is as classy as they come. Period.

By uga-brave

March 25, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this

i agree on thames. a rh power bat for the bench, would be a good fit.

By Jim Leyland

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

Of course Edgar’s a class act, that’s why we gave up so much to get him! O’Brien, you got any smokes?

By VolBrave

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

DOB,

When is the next round of cuts, and whose your picks to stay/go? BTW looks like Andruw is keeping his stats and going to L.A. with them…

By David O'Brien

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

VolBrave, next round of cuts is the final round, and it won’t be made until Friday night or Saturday morning, after all the remaining players in camp make the trip to Atlanta for the games with Cleveland Friday and Saturday.

By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)

March 25, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this

ahh - good’ol Motormouth

As the Moots fall apart coming out of the gate you try the old magicians trick of sleight-of-hand to change the attention from you team.

BTW - in case you haven’t seen ESPN’s website lately, your team was described aw “BRITTLE”

By VolBrave

March 25, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this

Can you tell me your 25? I hope Resop makes it, he’s looked good, I don’t think Rng makes it, do you?

By Metropolitan Man

March 25, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this

Hey Lt. Cavewoman, How the heck are ya. No magicians tricks here, just telling it like it is. Anyway “brittle” does not describe the METS. ESPN will be back on there jockstraps after the 1st week of the season.

What did they say about the braves besdies that they are not a factor??

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

March 25, 2008 12:44 AM | Link to this

In case no one here in Braves land has noticed , the Mets starting pitching is in trouble.

Johan Santana(3.15 ERA) and John Maine(1.78 ERA) look ready to go.

Pedro Martinez has an ERA of 2.00 , but just nine innings and two starts so far.

Oliver Perez has an ERA of 5.79 , he has blown hot and cold all spring.

Mike Pelfrey has continued to struggle (8.31 ERA) which has been the story of his career so far as a major league starter.

El Duque looked horrible in his lone start , going three innings and giving up five earned runs. He is not ready to start the season.

Beyond these six , the Mets have virtually nothing for quality depth since they traded Philip Humber , Kevin Mulvey and Deolis Guerra for Johan Santana.

The Mets spring training record of 17-9 is nothing but a mirage. They look exactly like the Braves were last season , a third place team.

By Furman Bisher

March 25, 2008 12:51 AM | Link to this

The Mets are what, in their forties? Strapping young bucks, I say!

By Overlord

March 25, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this

DOB edgar was one of the main reasons marlins won their 1st WS. He had everything yunel has. One thing i think yunel will develop more than edgar is power….. he is a big kid.

By bruce

March 25, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this

Coach: Agreed on Mets pitching… I read some of the Mets MLB site pitching articles today… sure did make me feel good, even though I do not wish anyone ill or injury.

By Metropolitan Man

March 25, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this

Atlanta Braves: “Lordy, Lordy, Look Who’s 40”

From your friends at ESPN.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/preview08/columns/story?columnist=crasnick_jerry&id=3306865

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

March 25, 2008 1:20 AM | Link to this

So , we can assume that the remaining 34 or 35 players in the Braves big league camp will see Turner Field on Friday unless those trades that Frank Wren alluded to are made.

By the way Tim Hudson will start for the Braves tomorrow afternoon. The Mets will be sending some minor league lefty by the name of Jonathan Niese who will take the bump for the Mets.

By david

March 25, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this

Brandon Inge

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

March 25, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this

Metropolitan Man , you have my sympathy.

Your team can’t and won’t field five decent starters.

With no starting pitching depth to speak of.

The Mets are even older than the Braves.

They have been ravaged by injuries all spring training.

Stick a fork in the Mets , they’re done !

By Metropolitan Man

March 25, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this

Follow the link and click on NL EAST preview Coach.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/preview08/index

By Jim

March 25, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this

I hear Wren is talking with Riccardi of the Blue Jays dont be surprised to see 8 players have new address—coming to Atlanta Alex Rios(CF), Gustavo Chacin(SP OR RP) and Jordon de Jong(RP) for Scott Thorman(1B), Royce Ring(RP), Tyler Yates(RP), JO-JO Reyes(SP) and Brent Lillibridge(3B)Jays Rolin is injured this WILL be a season busting trade for the Braves Rios will look much better in CF than Kotsay

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

March 25, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this

Ken Rosenthal picked the Braves to win the World Series and NO , I didn’t read your link. ESPN is horribly biased.

Her is a REAL prediction Metroman. Neither the Yankees or the Mets will see the playoffs in 2008 and you can take that to the bank and cash it right now.

By ObiWanKobe

March 25, 2008 2:19 AM | Link to this

Hey Met Man; When the Braves play their first home playoff (hopefully Glavine is throwing) & the Mets are at home, I’ll fly you & Anders down for the game and get you guys great seats (one’s that will put you both on national tv). I’ll also get the both of you pink Bobby Coxs’ jerseys, pink cleats inculded. You get to wear your Mets hats or visiors. The catch is the both of you will have signs provided by me that say “I(HEART SYMBOL) COX”. You will stand and hold these signs up each half inning & pitching change. So if you are willing to put your behind where your mouth is let me know. I can fly out of Burbank or LAX & I have a place to stay in NYC. Game on?

By Braveheart

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

I’ll let you nightshifters fight over which one of you is Lionel and which ones are the Commodores. But I think Wayne from Utah is Lionel.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=dlsfYDj2HWA&feature=related

By Wayne in Utah

March 25, 2008 2:43 AM | Link to this

WW Oh man, it’s time to “sail on down the line” as we close it out tonight on the “night shift”.

your onto me!! But Lionel (I) wasn’t even in that video clip. That was post Lionel stuff.

Hey, Jim, where did you hear of that rumor?? For Rios, I might be tempted to give up Lilly. I know nothing about any of those pitchers in return though. Who is talking that one up? Somebody in the Jay’s org?

Gotta a long night on the computer, but not much time on the blog….sorry about that. Work and fam comes first.

Work is bustin’ my arse these days too!

How’s things uga? You still up?

Gotta go ride the stationary bike for about 15 minutes (my doc and wife are on my arse about my health too!) I guess that means they love me, huh….. Got about 25 or more lbs to lose before summer gets here.

This old fart is going to get into size 34x34’s if I have to kill myself doing it!!

By Moby Grape

March 25, 2008 4:48 AM | Link to this

I wonder if the Braves could get Ian Stewart from the Rockies. He is blocked by Atkins, Hawpe, and HeltonRobert

the Braves don’t do not have a history of trading for unproven youngsters to use as backup, hitting .209 in Coors field would make it even more unlikely

By William

March 25, 2008 5:17 AM | Link to this

So Kotsay gets turned around on a play yesterday (bad play, no question), then gets fooled on a very windy day today on a ball that took off and kept going to the warning track, then he stinks? Oh, OK.

I’m sorry folks but I’m much happy to have Kotsay than Andruw. I’ve been impressed with Kotsay this spring in th e outfield. Is he as flashy as Andruw? No, but he’s certainly not in adequate. He’s much more consistent with putting the ball in play at the plate. I have no second thoughts at all about the Braves letting Andruw go. I think it was a great move. It was time to move on. I think the line up is better without him.

By CharlieAlphaBravo

March 25, 2008 6:05 AM | Link to this

It has begun… Welcome to 2008 my fellow baseball blogaholics…

By CharlieAlphaBravo

March 25, 2008 6:16 AM | Link to this

Wow… Who are these guys from Oakland??? Blanton makes me nervous like Chucky J. Too many runners on base. Don’t know about you guys, but I prefer my staff ace doesn’t give up 250+ hits in a season. Ol’ Billy Beane needs to give the Moneyball a rest. If only they could resign Jose Canseco…

By Steve

March 25, 2008 7:26 AM | Link to this

Dave-

So who do we know that will fund our founding of a radio station and handle the programing? If you don’t have the new Tift Merritt record, go get it- and she is playing in Atlanta on April 24th.

Thanks for posting Tom Waits lyrics- just put on ‘Time’ the other night for the first time on about 8 years and WOW is it good!

GO Braves, can’t wait for the 30th!

By David O'Brien

March 25, 2008 7:40 AM | Link to this

DOB edgar was one of the main reasons marlins won their 1st WS. He had everything yunel has. Overlord

Thanks. I was the Marlins beat writer for the Sun-Sentinel from 1995 to June 2002.

Edgar didn’t have an arm like Yunel. Few have.

By David O'Brien

March 25, 2008 7:44 AM | Link to this

Steve, maybe Liberty Media would fund it? (smile)

I’ve got Tift’s latest. Great stuff. Might have to grab that the for drive to Port St. Lousy.

Speaking of … gotta go. Two-plus hours from the rental house to that ballpark.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

March 25, 2008 7:46 AM | Link to this

Would Scott Thorman and Tyler Yates be enough to pry Marcus Thames away from the Tigers ? Or is that to much for a back up type player.

By Anders

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

DOB

Might have to grab that the for drive to Port St. Lousy.

More class from the leader of the band.

By chris from md

March 25, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Do you think the Braves might try to trade for a backup catcher? Before they invited Javy to camp they were looking for one.

Thx,

Chris from MD

By 18 Wheels of Love

March 25, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, I actually typed that out and then shortened it to be nice….for whatever reason…

By Epinephrine

March 25, 2008 8:29 AM | Link to this

DOB you really gotta get your Marlin’s knowledge down.

By scott

March 25, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

Please don’t keep Corky Miller, Javy would have been much better than Corky. Why in the hell would we keep him over Bryan Pena, who can play other positions in a pinch? I’ve heard criticisms of Sammons not being ready yet, hell has Corky ever been ready? Please don’t do it.

By doc

March 25, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

i have been in denial as i am sure i have read about it and seen it to ponder thinking only surely this is a special spring training pre-season fiasco to go to japan. finally as it is after the fact yes indeed the baseball season has opened in japan rather than cinncinnati. what has happened to the world and the one that i am endeared to? oh the indignity of it all as i really come to grips with the idea that times have changed and how could it truly be for the better? where is the indignity expressed minions and denizens?

dob, really good spring son. you have displayed your chops and come out of the spring season ready to go. no time now on the disabled list for something as benign as a writers cramp, block or carpal tunnel from beating the key board. we are all ready to jump on your back lie we were smoltzie and head to the world series and have you blogging away with us in atlanta this year. anything less is a bust, lead the way.

also remember if the guru ride lets you down because he has to catalogue his new vinyl section, ill be your wing man if you need it.

maybe all i need is a bike to motor on to forget the ills of baseball starting its season in japan. yeah, thats the ticket or no less than a nice soft top to ride around in. got to go to the store it seems to make my mood better and drink up some more petrol to make the world a better place for mid-easterners and texans to live in.

By Jon

March 25, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

What’s the deal with the Rios rumor that was dropped on here earlier? How concrete is that? What’s the plan, put Rios in LF and Matt back on the bench? Giving up Jo-Jo might not seem like such a big deal but neither did trading Wainwright. Who got the better end of that deal?

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 25, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

4-4 game here in the ninth. Huston Street just gave up a home run to some kid by the name of Brandon Moss and blew the save. Oakland and Boston all knotted up.

By TheCutMan

March 25, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this

I stand corrected on KJ’s conditioning and appreciate the counter points/explanation.

By ssiscribe

March 25, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

Free baseball from Japan! To the 10th, 4-4.

—30—

By Lew

March 25, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

Don’t you just love those days that begin with a phone cal-“Dad, there’s a burst pipe outside the bathroom. What’s the credit card number?” Yes, sometimes one hopes it just goes uphill from there.

By TJ

March 25, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

Jon, maybe that poster is privy to some info that’s not being reported anywhere else, but I doubt it.

Rios is reportedly about to sign a new 6 year $65 million contract with the Jays. I really doubt the Jays are gonna sign him and then trade him for a couple of good (but not great) prospects and a couple of marginal out-of-options big leaguers.

Actually, he’s probably most comparable to Jeff Francouer, so his new contract might be a glimpse of what Jeff can expect when we get serious about renewing him.

(and for (fantasy) discussion sake, if there is any validity to the rumor, I wouldn’t think twice about giving up Lilly and Reyes for Rios. An outfield of Frenchy, Rios and Schafer would be the best in baseball for about the next 8 years - but it just ain’t happening.).

By wiki

March 25, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

Anatomy of a Collapse Date Opponent Result Record Sept. 14 Phillies L 3-2 83-63 Sept. 15 Phillies L 5-3 83-64 Sept. 16 Phillies L 10-6 83-65 Sept. 17 Nationals L 12-4 83-66 Sept. 18 Nationals L 9-8 83-67 Sept. 19 Nationals W 8-4 84-67 Sept. 20 Marlins L 8-7 84-68 Sept. 21 Marlins W 9-6 85-68 Sept. 22 Marlins W 7-2 86-68 Sept. 23 Marlins W 7-6 87-68 Sept. 24 Nationals L 13-4 87-69 Sept. 25 Nationals L 10-9 87-70 Sept. 26 Nationals L 9-6 87-71 Sept. 27 Cardinals L 3-0 87-72 Sept. 28 Marlins L 7-4 87-73 Sept. 29 Marlins W 13-0 88-73 Sept. 30 Marlins L 8-1 88-74

truly amazin’

By Jon

March 25, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

Isn’t Cinncinnati currently looking for depth at C? Have they been rumored to have contacted the Braves about Pena?

Who do they have surplus that could be a benifit to us in a bench/PH roll?

By Jon

March 25, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

Just read a report by Ken Rosenthal where he stated that he Jays and Rios are close to signing a 6 yr. contract extension. Don’t think that trades going to happen!

By Jon

March 25, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

Not sure if we have the players to offer a good match to the Red in a trade but what about Hatteberg?

The Red MLB sight is predicting Votto will get the starting 1B job out of ST. He can back up Tex and can catch in an emergency situation. Not sure about his salary though.

By Jon

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

So DOB, I guess you could say Escobar is a bit of Edgar and Furcal mixed together into this really awesome player. Would I be right in that assesment?

By Jon

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

Hatteberg’s contract this year is for 1.85 Mill. Not bad for a guy that batted .310 with 10 HR and 47 RBI in 361 AB last year. He also only had 35 SO to 49 BB.

By Shaun

March 25, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

Coach, Brandon Moss is a Georgia guy…born in Monroe, went to Loganville High.

By Ed Smith

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

Do you know any news about Franco the oldest player in baseball but looks like he’s a rookie

By Maconboy

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

DOB, thanks for the music warning!

By McFann

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

All the teams changed the format of their websites on Sunday. I liked the old ones better.

:,(

By Jon1

March 25, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

If Milton Bradley is healthy enough to play RF and not just DH for the Rangers Kevin Mench might be available too. He would give us more pop from the right side than any of our current bench players have.

By jonathan

March 25, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

I have a good one for you….

Brandon Moss played for Loganville High School. He come to Elbert County my senior year (his junior) and pitched a no hitter against us! He was unreal! Also hit the ball real good, but he was throwing so freaking hard noone was worried about the hitting. After watching that documentary on Frenchy on FSN, Brandon Moss was our North Georgia version of Frenchy. Threw the crap out of the ball and hit like a beast. Glad to see he is doing good for Boston! Small World I guess!

By Scuba-Steve

March 25, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

DOB, what do you think about MLB opening the season in Japan? Do you really think the MLB has, “sold their soul”?

By JC FROM UT

March 25, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

Hatteberg would be a nice oiece to the bench. He came up as a catcher then moved to first base. Has always hit for a good average. He could in a pinch still catch if BC used McCann to pinch hit or if McCann was ran for late in a game. He wouldn’t be the primary backup but could do the job for an inning ot two. The reds would probably want starting pitching. I would not give up Jojo or Chucky, so I’m not sure there would be a good match. I would like to see Xavier Nady, but again who would you have to give up? And would there be enough at bats for him?

By brent a.

March 25, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

I guess the worst part is that the Red Sox already have the best record in baseball.

By Jon1

March 25, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Where’s Leo at now. His down and away pitching concept didn’t quite catch on in Bal. Is he coaching some where else or just rocking on the front porch instead of in the dugout?

By Chris

March 25, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

Game 6 - 1995 Wold Series

If you can’t stand up for Glavine for that performance next Monday when he toes the rubber, i’d question exactly what it is you look to get out of sports.

Who cares what the inner business workings of the sport are? This is the United States, and in case you haven’t noticed entertainment industries (Sports included) make billions of dollars.

Are you going to boycott “Indiana Jones” because Harrison Ford gets $20M for a movie?

Are you going to not watch CSI (or whatever your favorite show is) when it comes back on after the writer’s strike?

get over it already. Baseball as an industry makes billions. The players should make a solid percentage of that. They ARE the product.

By Andy K

March 25, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

DOBWhat about a Pena for Hatteberg trade? Then, Wren could ship Thorman paired with a relief pitcher somewhere else for further help. On another note, Why is everyone bashing Corky? He’s had a good spring, offensively and defensively. He’s one of those guys you want in your clubhouse, plus, he’s put up some good numbers in the past.

By McFann

March 25, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

I’d give up Ho-Ho for Hatteberg! He hasn’t caught in a ML game since 2001, but still. If the Reds want Ho-Ho, go for it!!

By StingerSplash

March 25, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

J.D. Drew didn’t play today because of a lower back strain. He was seen earlier carrying a novel by Johnny Cash that he’s reading. How big is that book to put J.D. on the sideline this morning?

By Jon1

March 25, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

DOB What do you think of the Hattiberg ideal? Is it a possibility? Would it take either Jo-Jo or James to get the trade made and if so would it be worth it?

It seems to me that the Reds bull pen is OLD! HOLLY CRAP their actually looking at KENT MERCKER to round out their pen! Maybe two young quality releivers could get the job done, lets say Yates and Ring packaged with Pena.

By 18 Wheels of Love

March 25, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

How about Pena, Thorman and Yates for Grienke from KC? I wonder if they would get rid of him even though he had a good year. He was volatile at one time but I remember him being compared to Maddux a long time ago.

By Nate

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

I guess its old news, but I’m sad to see Javy cut. Hard not to pull for the guy after he worked so hard to get back in shape.
Not sure I understand the reasoning behind cutting him either. We’re talking about maybe 30 starts at catcher. That’s leaves the bench pretty much void of a pinch hitting threat. And no one can deny he would help sell tickets. I can’t see people lining up to get Corky’s autograph.

By JimD

March 25, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

How about Pena and Ho-Ho for Hatteburg and Freel?

By JimD

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

StingerSplash: J.D. Drew didn’t play today because of a lower back strain. He was seen earlier carrying a novel by Johnny Cash that he’s reading. How big is that book to put J.D. on the sideline this morning?

The Cliff’s Notes are enough to sideline JD.

By Shaun

March 25, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

Chris, good points. I’ve often wondered why athletes are seen by some as over-paid cry babies while actors can auction there services to the highest bidder at will…and probably don’t have to stick to the rigorous schedule and training that athletes must in order to stay successful. Not saying either job is as easy as some seem to think but it seems often times movie stars and others who are well-paid get a pass while athletes are criticized and scrutinized.

Also, athletes in general are probably better examples of discipline and decency than movie stars or rock stars. Again, not that I’m against movie stars, rock stars and free expression. But again it’s ridiculous that athletes are often seen as selfish and arrogant while others who are far from shining examples of moral behavior get a pass.

By ncscoots

March 25, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

Giving up ANY starting pitching for a PH bench player would be foolish in the extreme. Next year, the Braves are going to need to look at as many starting pitchers as they can, in the hopes that at least one of them can make the grade.

I don’t care how bad any of them look this spring, or even during a minor league year, Braves are going to have to throw a bunch of ‘em against the wall next year to see what sticks.

By richbrave

March 25, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

sscribe:

“Free baseball” just a dagger in my heart. No Skip, no Braves. Damm TBS.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

March 25, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

I have a couple of used cars I would like to sell to you guys who apparently have no sense of value. Trading away solid relief pitching or a proven starter for a bench player…. Duh…

By richbrave

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

BRAVES LOCAL INTEREST. Season ticket sales are UP in Richmond!! Not as much as I would have liked, but a few. At least there won’t be any backlash from the fans, and that’s good for future baseball prospects here.

By McFann

March 25, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

No, keep Pena! Dump Ho-Ho and Yates!

By MAC

March 25, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

I agree with you, Paul Thorn’s new cd “A Long Way From Tupelo” is outstanding and so is the future of the Braves. I am excited about this season and beyond.

By brent a.

March 25, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Okay, so Rob Neyer ranks his 50 best players in MLB over the next five years:

1. David Wright
2. Kelly Johnson
3. Brian McCann
4. Asdrubal Cabrera

No Frenchy or Yune

By brent a.

March 25, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Okay, so Rob Neyer ranks his 50 best players in MLB over the next five years:

1. David Wright
2. Kelly Johnson
3. Mark Teixeira
4. Brian McCann
5. Asdrubal Cabrera

No Frenchy or Yune

By Bubdylan

March 25, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Shaun, it’s a bit different with the movie stars, though they do take flak for being sell-out when good actors show up in pointless money gigs. But to be like baseball, you’d have to think about, say, Al Pacino pulling out after Godfather I and taking more money to go make an ABC After School Special. Copola: “but Al, we gave you your shot, and now we need you for GF II … you and De Niro together, man…” Pacino: “It’s not up to me, Francis, my agent is just getting me market value.” I agree with you that it gets out of hand sometimes, but you must admit the dynamics are a bit different.

By brent a.

March 25, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Okay, Escobar hasn’t played enough …

“Oh, and one other thing: With one exception, you’re not going to find any “prospects” on this list. Jay Bruce and Colby Rasmus may be great baseball players, but they’ve not played an inning in the majors and even once they reach the majors they might need a year or two or three to become great major leaguers. Which disqualifies them from making our five-year list.”

By Nate

March 25, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

DOB-

Have and of the rumors floating around included lineup regulars, or are we just talking about swapping prospects and bench players?

By DAP

March 25, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

ncscoots is exactly right, the braves dont need to give up any starters for bench players. next off season we are going to have to replace 2/5 of our rotation. maybe jojo will be ready then.

trading out of options relievers is one thing, trading young left-handed starters is stupid unless its for a big piece.

By doc

March 25, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

lew i was just wondering how you were this am. sorry to hear the plumbing was overcome by your winter it seems. maybe there are some indignities worse than major league baseball in japan in march. just wish i could hurt my neck with a southern league injury on a flight to japan for a mere extra 40k paycheck. nice bonus.

By DAP

March 25, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

richbrave or any other braves minor league experts…are there any players that could potentially be our 1st baseman in 2009? is flowers gonna be ready by then do you think?

i have a feeling either hampton or glavine will be playing for the braves again in 09, but im not sure which one…

By StingerSplash

March 25, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

JimD,

That’s either a cutting remark on either Mr. Drew’s fragility or the fact he went to the intellectual bastion that is Florida State. I think the former, but either way, that smarts - and it’s funny.

By brent a.

March 25, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

FWIW, that is not how I numbered those players above. I do not know how that happened.

Wright was number 1, and Asdrubal was 50, the three Braves were somewhere in between.

Is the “filter” on this thing too smart for its own good?

By Jon1

March 25, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

I agree with you on one point Gil and that is we will potentially need starting pitching next year.

What we need THIS year is a good right handed hitter with some pop who can back up 1B. If we find someone who can back up other positions as well all the better.

I guess you could say it’s a matter of supply and demand. We have supply of good young pitchers and we have a demand for a quality veteran Bench player/PH. How do you think we go about making a trade to fill THIS year’s need?

By richbrave

March 25, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

GIL in MECHANICSVILLE:

Hey Gil. They missed the kitchen sink in that give away post. Great point. I’m sure Wren has a cooler head. And thank goodness for that!!

I see Anders is taking pot-shots with DOB’s comments. Maybe he’s really SNIPER 69? Come on Anders, come clean. Are you really the famous Sniper that lurks around the periphery of this blog?

By Epinephrine

March 25, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

Neyer ought to be proven right or wrong this year. But I bet if you polled the experts, Braves potential would probably be:

Frenchy McCann Escobar KJ

With Escobar having the most variation of the 4, ranging from 1 to 4.

By Efrim

March 25, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

Brent A

Kelly Johnson was #28 and Brian McCann was number #42.

I’m confused as to why you had Kelly at #2….

By TennesseePaul

March 25, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

San Francisco Giants: “We Put the ‘0’ in San Francisco”

That’s pretty clever.

By Jon1

March 25, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

ncscoots I’m in agreement with you as far as our starters go. My suggestion was Yates/Ring/Pena. All are out of options and don’t appear to have a spot on this year’s roster. We are either going to loose them on waivers or we can try and trade them for some value.

By David O'Brien

March 25, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

Hey folks. Just got here to Port St. Lousy, because I first went by Dark Star to see Smoltz throw. He played catch in thye outfield, that was it, but said his shoulder felt “normal,” much better than last time he threw.

He’ll throw again, probably off mound, tomorrow or Thursday, then face hitters this weekend. Would probably pitch in a minor league game next week sometime, aiming for that April 6 start if all goes well.

Only a slight chance, if any, that he’d not open season on DL, and even then he’d start no earlier than the fourth game of the season. But again, it’s almost certain he’s going on DL to begin season.

They’ve already told Glavine he’s pitching the home opener. He’s throwing in a minor league game today, not here with the team.

Tex, Chipper, Kotsay .. many others didn’t have to make trip. Those are just the ones I saw working out back at Dark Star.

team’s just arriving here in Mets land, not taking batting practice.

By ncscoots

March 25, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Perhaps the blog feels there is some righty 30-HR-potential bench bat out there just waiting to be snapped up at the Braves’ leisure. Seems so.

Bench players are on the bench for a reason, and expecting everyday-player performance from those guys is just wishful thinking. Wren may be able to upgrade the bench’s power (not too hard with the crew currently assembled), but I doubt his choice will fulfill bloggers’ expectations.

By Eric W

March 25, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Jon1, I agree. A good fit would be a 1B/3B back up bat. I’ve heard rumors abot Wes Helms coming back thru trade talks. He, or a similar type, would be an ideal fit.

By McFann

March 25, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

Very interesting that there’s no Francoeur on that list, brent a.. Just goes to show something that I firmly believe: McCann and Johnson are better hitters. (But McCann is a catcher, so you really can’t compare the way his hitting differentiates with others at his position to the way Francoeur’s differentiates with others at his position.) Francoeur may have more “pop” in his bat, but Johnson’s willingness to take pitches and not always swing for the fences (“Lose an Andruw…”), make him a disciplined hitter, IMHO.

By Jon1

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

Well the Mets might have a chance today unless Pelfry or Hernandez is pitching.

I’m pretty sure a line up of all Non-roster invitees could knock them out of the game by the 2nd right now.

Who is pitching today?

By richbrave

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

DAP:

Canizares and Pena were basically it last year. There was one other player that filled in for a long stretch while Canizares was out of the country, but I can’t remember his name. GIL might. Does that tell you anything about availability down on the farm? Maybe someone from AA or below, but I really haven’t heard of much below AAA. From play-by-play in ST games I haven’t looked at either man’s stats, but it appears the Braves have had both in camp and have evaluated their current level of talent. Canizares was doing quite well early in the spring of ‘07, but went home and had visa issues upon attempting to re-enter the country. Probably his correct birth certificate. Different sources place him anywhere from 28 to 36, so pick an age. Have seen Dave mention him here and there. Don’t think he’s being seriously considered for back-up. Pena you know of already. Not what you wanted to hear I’m sure, and certainly not what Atlanta needs now. I suspect either or both would be gone with one arm(Yates or Ring) for a solid 1st base back-up and/or bat.

By Lew

March 25, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Doc-The plumbing problem was at the Orlando Homestead-not Vermont. It only cost $265, which when a plumber is involved is a steal.

Vermont just impacted life in that when I went to pay my heating oil bill, I found out that the capped price for next year is going to be $4 per gallon (it was 2.89 this year). This means another $1100 in 09. This on top of the fact we found out yesterday that our health insurance premiums go up 25% in September, too-another $125 a month.

At least we can cover the increases. I wonder how some people manage, though. Something must get done in this country-and very soon. Not too sure I’ve ever seen the prospect this bleak-it may well be even worse than in the late 70’s and early 80’s.

By FJR

March 25, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Brent A.,

Rob Neyer takes moneyball to a ridiculous level. That is why Frenchy isn’t on the list (anti-moneyballer) and why K-Jo is our best player on the list (prototypical moneyballer).

That being said I think a lot of fans here tend to underestimate K-Jo. He’s going to develop a little more power and eventually hit 20-30 HRs. That will raise his batting average, as I don’t think he’ll do it by swinging for the fences, just making solid contact. Guys is going to be a doubles machine and walk a ton. I see K-Jo being the second toughest out on this team THIS YEAR, after Hoss.

Frenchy is great, but you can look to him to make an out, K-Jo just doesn’t give away ABs.

By Lew

March 25, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

McFann-Francoeur always “swings for the fences”? If so, then how come everyone is b!tch!ng his power numbers went down from going to right field too much? You’ve really got to get over this McCann/Francoeur animosity thing, Grasshopper.

By Royce Brown

March 25, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Am I missing something. Long time Braves season ticket holder and looking over the schedule it appears we only have ONE interleague matchup at home this year? How can that be?

By Epinephrine

March 25, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

McFann, I have to agree. This is a Braves blog, which applies equally to Mets fans and to people who are fans of a player and not a team…You constantly put down Francouer in order to hoist McCann up in a better light. But your comments that denigrate other Braves often ring hollow for a lack of objectivity.

By Jon1

March 25, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

ncscoots I for one have not suggested “some righty 30-HR-potential bench bat”. The two suggestions I made on this blog was Hattiberg who hit 10HR and had a +.300 BA last year and Mench who hit 8HR and batted .267.

Both player MIGHT be available because their respective ball clubs have other player slotted into their positions. If they were to stay on those ball clubs they would be bench players there as well.

Both the Reds and the Rangers have needs that associate well with our surplus of good young OUT OF OPTION relief pitchers (for TX and the Reds) and a good OUT OF OPTION catcher in Pena (only Reds).

I don’t think a trade for either of those players is a delusional expectation as far as offensive production from a bench player goes.

By DAP

March 25, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Jon1 How do you think we go about making a trade to fill THIS year’s need?

we try to make a trade with our out-of-options guys, not with young starters.

we need a good bench for this team, but i wouldnt touch bennett, jojo, james for someone to sit on our bench. those pitchers have a much greater potential impact than a bench player.

i would be trying to pry away either ensberg or thames offering two of these players: yates, thorman, pena, ring, carlyle, resop.

all are out of options (right?), and they are all either on the bubble, or definitly not making the team.

(i personally like ensberg more, because is primarily a 3rd baseman which we are more likely to need for chipper…ensberg CAN play 1st, but thames does play third at all)

By TennesseePaul

March 25, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

DAP: This list might not be 100% correct, but it’s what I’ve got. It’s last years’ Org Chart list.

First   Last        Pos  Age B/T Level
Barbaro Canizares   1B    29 R/R   AAA
Tyler   Flowers     1B    22 R/R     A
Freddie Freeman     1B/P  19 L/R    Rk
Cody    Johnson     1B    20 L/R    Rk
Kala    Kaaihue     C-1B  23 R/R    AA
Graham  Koonce      1B    33 L/L   AAA
Carlos  Mendez      1B    34 R/R   AAA
Ryohei  Shimabukuro 1B    19 L/R    Rk
Mark    Teixeira    1B    28 S/R   MLB
Larry   Williams    1B    23 L/R    A+

By Efrim

March 25, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

I think Kelly and Heap are better hitters than Frenchy. But there is no reason why Frenchy shouldn’t of been on that Top 50 list. I’m sorry, but I can’t read too much into that thing when he put Melky Cabrera on it. So that means Rob Neyer thinks Melky Cabrera will have a better 5 years than Jeff Francouer???? Please.

Also, Dustin Pedroia isn’t a better player than Kelly. I simply will never admit to something like that. Pedroia played out of his head last year. Defense aside of course.

By TennesseePaul

March 25, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

Royce Brown: Looks like we have home interleague games against the A’s on May 16th-18th. And then Home games against the Mariners on June 20th-22nd.

By TennesseePaul

March 25, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

You’ve really got to get over this McCann/Francoeur animosity thing

Tell me about it. I was a growing fan of McCann until McFann started showing up. Now I’m re-assessing the whole thing. Sad really. I liked both players but this kid seems hell bent on driving a wedge between them.

By Lew

March 25, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

Royce-You missed something. The schedule is weird, as usual. There are two home Interleague series. One from May 16-18 against Oakland and another against the Mariners, June 20-22. The interleague schedule just starts a ot earlier this year.

By gary

March 25, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

The Braves look like a strong 4th place finisher this i season behind the mets phillies and washington, I like tommy but giving up Andrew for him was a big error in judgement. the corners could be strong but Chipper can’t make it a full season and 2nd and ss we will have to wait an see, pitching ??????

By Epinephrine

March 25, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

I think KJ and Mac are better hitters too (or least, the 06 Mac, or even a blend of 06/07, but not purely 07). With that being said, I think all three of those guys are going to have big years, and I think this conversation is premature. Suffice it to say they should all comfortably be within the top 50 (Mac in the 40s is laughable too, imo).

By Jon1

March 25, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

McCann will rank higher because of the offensive production that he provides is a rarity from behind the plate.

Francour still has just as high of an up side though. He increased his average last year by 33 points, hit 16 more doubles, drew 19 more BB and increased his on base percentage by 45 point while keeping his SO about the same. He will get his HR numbers back up now that he can drive the ball to RF consistently.

By Jon1

March 25, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

ncscoots…it seems we are suggesting more or less the same thing; just for different players. Ensburg would fit well but would he be available?

By richbrave

March 25, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

DAP:

Thanks to TP’s post I recall the others. Mendez is not in ST camp I don’t think and is not an option in my opinion. Koonce either. Koonce played a short time only. Mendez was the primary replacement for Canizares. Canizares would have to be the primary candidate from AAA in my humble opinion, and the Braves have evaluated him this spring. Not much going buddy. Sorry.

By McFann

March 25, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

Hello? It wasn’t me who didn’t put Francoeur in the Top 50 in the Next Five Years List! Besides, did you read my post? I said Johnson was a more disciplined hitter! I said you can’t compare the way McCann and Francoeur differentiate with others at their positions because catchers usually aren’t as gooda hitters as outfielders.

I’ll quit the comparison then! I’ll quit! I’m sorry, 10Paul, that was not my intent! But if you would have read my post you’d know I was comparing Johnson and Francoeur.

Why don’t you read what FJR and Efrim have to say if you think I’m the biggest nut-job around right now. Yeah, I don’t know where Melky came from…or even Miguel Cabrera for that matter. I’d say Francoeur would be better than Miguel.

TTFN.

By Steve McP

March 25, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

Gary - your and idiot

Which Braves are you looking at?

By Mets Stink

March 25, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Gary, what are you smoking? You can make an argument for 3rd (although I think they’ll finish better than that), but 4th? Behind Washington?

By Jon1

March 25, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

FYI McCann had fewer Hits, doubles, Hits, BB, lower average and lower On Base Percentage than Francour last year. He did however have fewer SO.

Francour did however play in 162 games last year and had 642 AB to McCann’s 504.

By Nate

March 25, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Why are we worrying about what Rob Neyer thinks? The national media that covers baseball is a joke. If you don’t play in New York or Boston, don’t expect to get much attention from the national press.

By richbrave

March 25, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

gary:

Thanks for that little boost to Braves morale. Don’t mind us if we rate the Braves a bit higher.

By Mark Fanxeira

March 25, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

gary,

er, what?

By Jon1

March 25, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

The Braves look like a strong 4th place finisher this i season behind the mets phillies and washington gary

I should just rip this post apart but I will have sympathy on you only because you really need to get help with your crack addiction.

By STRETCH

March 25, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

NATE….you said it!

By SavJosh

March 25, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

DOB gets a little love from Peter King at SI.com. Check out item 10.f. in the “Ten Things I Think I Think” section of Peter King’s Monday Morning Quarterback column. Mr. King praises our very own DOB:

Want to read an enjoyable blog, a guy who blogs the way blogs were meant to blog? David O’Brien has a great slice-of-spring-training-life in the Atlanta Journal Constitution. Very human, with snippets of how he does his job (not as easy as you think), the music that accompanies him on trips around central Florida chasing the Braves, and the fun scenes he sees — like the Hooters with the defunct Hooters Motel behind it.

[http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/peter_king/03/21/mmqb/2.html]

By Jon1

March 25, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

Nate’s right! We have Four of the best young talents at their respective positions in all of baseball. Who really cares at this point who’s better than who as long as they all stay in the same lineup for years to come.

By Tom in NYC

March 25, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Question: Does anyone have a link to the gametracker for our game on mlb.com? Not sure how to access it during spring training. Thanks!

By McFann

March 25, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

* Epinephrine* & Jon1—

THANK YOU!!

They could pull off one of those Cabreras and squeeze in Francoeur.

My point is (not very clear, but it’s there somewhere) that McCann was a slightly above average offensive catcher in his first two years, considering what the “competition” is at that position. But this conversation is way premature. Let’s see what those three have to offer this year, eh?

By Efrim

March 25, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

There is NOTHING wrong about saying Kelly and Heap are better hitters than Frenchy….

NOTHING.

I don’t think anyone should be accused of treason if they make that statement.

By DAP

March 25, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

McFann kelly mentioned during a spring training interview that he was a pull hitter, and that wasnt going to change. i thought that was kind of funny.

in frenchy’s defense, he hit alot of singles up the middle last year, some were game winners. i think hes got the right idea to be a very productive hitter.

weve got alot of guys i look at as “time bombs”. (mccann, frenchy, johnson, jair, yunel) they are right on the edge of just exploding, and i cant wait till it happens.

rockies went to the WS last year because all their young guys clicked on at once. that could be the braves this year.

By McFann

March 25, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Nate, I’m with you, pal!

By ncscoots

March 25, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

I for one have not suggested “some righty 30-HR-potential bench bat”.

Didn’t say you did. That was a comment directed toward the more starry-eyed of our bunch, as a group.

Most here can tell you that there’s little ambiguity if I’m directing a comment at someone in particular, LOL.

By 22oz

March 25, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

Looks like the Braves and Mets are employing opposite strategies: The Mets don’t want the Braves to see their pitchers, the Braves don’t want the Mets to see their hitters.

By TennesseePaul

March 25, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

McFann: “Nut job”? Not sure where that came from.

Richbrave, DAP: Koonce was a 60th round pick in 1993 by Detroit.
I didn’t pull in Thorman but he should be on that list as well.
Mendez was an undrafted free agent from 1991.
The AAA 1B don’t seem like real options at first base in Atlanta. They appear to be place holders so to speak. The Braves have practically zero first base prospects in the system let alone close to the ML level. Kala was listed as a catcher in my list, not sure if that’s true, though I always heard he was a first baseman that hasn’t seen a ball he wouldn’t swing at. And we all know Flowers after his hype this spring, which included repeated statements that they plan to keep him at catcher for the time being, but he does have 1B experience. So, Thorman looks like the deal right now from our system, like it or not.

By Mark

March 25, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

love the music stuff….keep em coming

By ATLfan4life

March 25, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

COMCAST PEOPLE….COMCAST HAS PEACHTREE TV….

By David O'Brien

March 25, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOGGAGE IS UP

By FJR

March 25, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Hey guys, I wanted to talk about chucky a little bit, but felt that posting it here would be a little too long. So I used it for the impetus of starting a blog that I had toyed around with for a while.

What to do with Chucky?

Hope to have about 1 braves blog every two or so days, varying with how much there is to talk about and how much time I have.

By David O'Brien

March 25, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOGGAGE IS UP

By McFann

March 25, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Efrim. Glad to know someone has my back.

rockies went to the WS last year because all their young guys clicked on at once. that could be the braves this year. DAP

I hope so……

By doc

March 25, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

lew, we have been headed on this course for at least 7 or 8 years, been holding my breath on it hoping folks would be aware or congress would wise up, doubt either have certainly not the latter. funny how they are your best friend when they have their hands out but turn wen someone reaches out to them for help except for the rich welfare system we have once again seen in action.

funny how i assumed it was vermont thinking you might have gotten a reprieve to return to see the boys one more time before it gets real.

By DAP

March 25, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

richbrave and 10paul maybe we should give that mark teixiera kid a look. could be alright.

it looks like unless kala kaaihue or whatever his name is blows the minors away this year, we will be buying our next 1st baseman. tyler flowers is probably a ways away still.

mcfann I’d say Francoeur would be better than Miguel.

do you know who miguel cabrera is? seriously…do you?

By OrlandoFan

March 25, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

New blog is up

By Buzz

March 25, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

Any word on any rumors the Braves have in their site?

By Russ

March 25, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

I could have saved you the money and told you that the Doughty record not as good as Haughty Melodic. the Only 2 songs worht their salt on that record are “27 Jennifers” and “I just want the girl in the blue dress…” “More bacon than the pan can handle” could be the worst song put on an album this year.

By Dan

March 25, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

I have NO ill feelings against #47. Remember he still won game 6 in 1995 with a 1-0 shoutout over the Indians for Atlanta’s only major title. No, I don’t count the Atlanta Chiefs NASL Title. He got $5M extra from the Mets. Would you turn that down? Everyone got on Jon Koncak for making “too much money” also. Glavine is a different pitcher now. He doesn’t live on the outside corner anymore. I’m excited he will end his career as a Brave. Hopefully he can give us 200+ innings and 13-15 wins this year. I have much optimism regarding the starters. I’m only nervous about centerfield. One of the kids might come up sooner than later. The Braves have had success with young players, as we all know. Play Ball !!!

By SAMMY THE HEAD MILLER

March 25, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

In Smoltz We Trust.

By Torpedo

March 25, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Perfect guy for the bench will be George Lombard, he killed the ball in spring training with LA.

By buzz

March 25, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

I JUST READ AND THOUGHT THAT IT WAS INTERESTING THAT JIM LEYLAND OF THE TIGERS SAYS HE HAS TWO SPOT OPEN ON HIS ROSTER. A BULLPEN SHOT AND A POSITION SPOT, SOUNDS LIKE A PERFECT TIME FOR A TRADE. TWO-FOR-ONE; THREE-FOR-ONE/TWO… THE OTHER MAYBE BEING A PROSPECT THAT THE BRAVES WOULD RECIEVE??

By Random

March 27, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

Last?

By jimelyyes

May 10, 2008 7:25 PM | Link to this

there is the professional world of warcraft power leveling here. welcome.

By jimelyyes

May 12, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

there is the professional world of warcraft power leveling here. welcome.