Braves

By Reid in EAV

March 27, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

Immature, yes. Pointless, yes. But… first?

By Tripleplay

March 27, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

I just wanna say…First?

By Pfunkatl

March 27, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

I KNOW I can’t be FIRST…anyways…how bout bringing back Orr and letting Thorman just GO???

By Stephen

March 27, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

First

By Nick

March 27, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

First?

By Braves20

March 27, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

mr. baseball - I must have scrolled past your 12:22 post on the old blog first time through.

You are so right. The Justice-Grissom trade was the end of civilization as we knew it.

By Renegator

March 27, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

Great Blog DOB and thanks for a new one.

By acworth atlantan

March 27, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

can’t wait to see what espn says today on the broadcast. is it going to be littered with mets/johan propaganda, or will they let gammons actually talk about the braves hype? go Bravos, and i hope they get rid of Thorman….can you say Craig Wilson.

By Shaun

March 27, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Pena and Thorman for Steve Kline and somebody else?

By Epinephrine

March 27, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

What a bizarre line up. Should be interesting to watch.

By McFann

March 27, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

OK! OK! I got one!! I love Rascal Flatts’ cover of Life Is a Highway! Awesome! The original version’s got nuthin on that one.

Sixth?

By TJ

March 27, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

DOB, did you get a chance to suggest to Smoltz that maybe he should give up golf, to preserve his shoulder? Sounds like today would’ve been a good time to bring it up!

By ippississiM

March 27, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

In the first five?

By Nick

March 27, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Crap, not first :(

Pfunkatl: How about not?

By Epinephrine

March 27, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

I would also like to reiterate: there is a bizarre amount of dissatisfaction with Kelly Johnson, and I will put myself out there in saying come mid season, a lot of people should be prepared to eat crow.

Anyone saying we should trade him (and Lil, AND an arm?!) for Brian Roberts, or platoon him with Prado, are dead wrong. KJ is a much better player, and has a much higher ceiling than both those guys.

By Renegator

March 27, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

DOB

Did you accidentally switch Tex and Hoss in the lineup or is Tex really batting 3rd and Hoss 4th?

Also, nice job on the Rude Awakening this morning. Those guys are hilarious.

By acworth atlantan

March 27, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

pfunk? bring back Orr over Thorman. why don’t we see if Ron Gant wants to play left over Diaz. there is a reason why the worst team in baseball cuts a player, good riddance Orr, & Langerhans. Thanks for the 240 avg and average defense.

By Shaun

March 27, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

Pfunkatl, are you talking about the Pete Orr with the career .292 OBP and .339 SLG?

…

I agree with those who say the Johnson-for-Roberts idea is a bad one. Johnson will outplay Roberts this season and for the remainder of his time with the Braves. I wouldn’t trade Kelly Johnson straight up for Roberts.

Oh, Rob Neyer has Kelly Johnson at number 28 on his list of top 50 players over the next five years. He says the following:

“Johnson’s been a second baseman for less than two years, but has made the switch from the outfield with great skill and established himself as one of the National League’s top second basemen.”

Let’s look at some 2008 projections (I’ll just use ZiPS this time):

Kelly Johnson - .271/.376/.464

Brian Roberts - .287/.363/.437

If you look at fangraphs.com, every projection system they have on their site has Kelly Johnson in the top five in OPS amount major league secondbaseman, a few have him second behind Utley and only one system has Roberts ahead of Johnson (and it’s not by much)…oh, and Johnson is five years younger than Roberts.

Again, no way the Braves should trade Johnson for Roberts, even straight up.

By Pfunkatl

March 27, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

Thorman is the ONLY burr in the side of our roster this year…I can HONESTLY say that I feel good about everyone else on our likely opening day roster. I have been a DIE-HARD baseball fan for 40 years, and I haven’t felt this good about a home team roster since I was in KC in the early 80s, but Thorman worries me, mostly because Cox will DEFINATELY use him if he is on the roster. I can envision MANY a pinch-hit double play or strike-out killing at-bats for that man if he opens with us.

By Jonathon

March 27, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

DOB - Same question from the previous blog entry - any news on these double-secret blue altnerate jerseys the Braves will wear Sunday night?

By Jonathon

March 27, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

DOB - Same question from the previous blog entry - any news on these double-secret blue alternate jerseys the Braves will wear Sunday night?

By UGA MAN

March 27, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

I DO NOT LIKE THE GIANTS TRADE IDEA BECAUSE THEY REALLY DONT HAVE ANYTHING THAT GREAT THE BRAVES CAN GET IN RETURN AS FAR AS A BENCH PLAYER GOES. THATS ONE REASON WHY THEY ARE NOT VERY GOOD. THEY ARE SHORT ON MAJOR LEAGUE READY TALENT RIGHT NOW.. MAYBE GET ANOTHER PROSPECT. BUT I DONT THINK MUCH MORE.
NO ONE HAS HIT OVER 14 HOMERUNS ON THEIR TEAM WITH THE EXCEPTION OF MOLINA AND ROWAND.. JUST MY OPINION

By jrjags

March 27, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the Heyward update. He sounds like he is going to be a good one if he continues to develop. Draft analysts say that he was the steal of the draft; there was no way his talent should have fallen to 14 where Atlanta was picking. Baseball America likens his plate discipline to Frank Thomas. I’ve also seen comparisons to Willie McCovey and Fred McGriff…way to early to make those kind of projections, but it is encouraging to see a prospect with tools to elicit comparisons to players of that kind of ability and success.

By Austin

March 27, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

DOB Tex is hitting 3rd?

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

TJ: No, I’ll let you do that. Why don’t you come down to the railing at Turner Field and call Smoltz over, tell him your thoughts on the matter?

By bravesfan

March 27, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

Chipper is hitting cleanup?

By Roman Gal

March 27, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

I’m so excited about this season at Rome. Next Thursday-Opening Night. More importantly, though…This Sunday-Real opening night.

By David

March 27, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

Oh, man, I am so excited for this season to get started! Smoltz sounds like he is going to tear it up!

By flange1

March 27, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

PLEASE DON’T SAY ANYTHING ABOUT BRINGING ORR BACK.

That is like going into Guitar Center on a Saturday afternoon and hearing every kid playing his only riff as loud as he can at the same time with the other kids OVER AND OVER AND OVER.

It actually makes me want to get violent!

Just like Pete Orr back to the Braves talk….

By Mets Stink

March 27, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

What’s up with the Tex/Chipper switch?

By Shaun

March 27, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Very little has been made of K. Johnson’s less than spectacular spring. If the funk continues long into the regular season, the platoon we may see this year will perhaps not be in left field but at second base.

Could be little has been made because everyone realizes 15 Spring Training games is nothing compared to .264/.360/.435 over 942 actual major league regular season plate appearances.

Mark Teixeira has struggled. Guess the Braves should think about platooning him, huh?

By Stuart

March 27, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

I know I shouldn’t want anyone to be in discomfort, but Smoltz is awesome when he has a strain, sprain, etc. Didn’t he almost throw a no-no after getting stung by bees a few years ago?

Today should be more an interesting listen. I cannot wait for Sunday.

Go Bravos!!!!!!!

By cw

March 27, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

Don’t trade Pena. Thorman has got to go.

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

UGA MAN: Use all caps again and it might get deleted. Entirely annoying.

By Steve McP

March 27, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Frenchy seems to be solid at 5 in the line-up, hopefully this will stay as he has more chance of scoring on McCann’s bat than vice versa.

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

No, just a typo. Hoss isn’t hitting cleanup. It’s fixed now.

By Pfunkatl

March 27, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

OK, ok…Pete is a BUMM. Gotcha goin tho…SURELY SOMEONE out there can be our back-up first baseman tho, and SPARE us of Thor!

By justin

March 27, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Whats the time table for Heyward? Is he a Frenchy or an Andruw kinda guy when he comes up, 21 or 19. I watched him play some when he was in High School and he could hit a baseball.

By Austin

March 27, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

DOB

Any news about the jerseys sunday night?

By Lawton

March 27, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

DOB, you think you could ask Smoltzie some stupid question once or twice a month this season? You know rile him up a little bit?

By PutMeInCoach

March 27, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

I have a side bet going with a guy in my fantasy league. Chipper v. A-Rod for most week 1&2 points. I’ve got Chipper. Anyone like my chances?

By jrjags

March 27, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

DOB do you get a free day to go over to the Magic Kingdom? I hear the It’s a Small World ride is a good one with a great soundtrack. Very indicative of the overall Disney experience.

By BroomeDawg

March 27, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

Looking foward to seeing Heyward in action today on Espn. Have heard alot about him. What outfield spots do you think he will play? And any chance of him playing 1st today??

oh yeah…1st.

By Steve McP

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

great to see and hear ESPN opening up with a review of the CHOKE.

By David O'Brien

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

Don’t know if Braves are wearing the new alternate jerseys that soon or not. They’ve kept it hush-hush.

By Randy S

March 27, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

I just turned to my little brother and said, “You wanna go to the game on Saturday?” Ahhhh, I can smell baseball.

By 3trees

March 27, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

I know its spelled diferently, but can you ask the young Heyward kid if he’s into the Moody Blues?

Smoltzie’s a piece of work, but I guess you gotta get yourself motivated somehow. “…he did it HIS way…”. Is it just me or has his whole spring been sort of a show? Something to keep the fans (and maybe opponents) guessing? All the best to him… and the Braves!

flange1 - ditto on both GC on the weekends and especially Orr!

Go Braves!

By Reid in EAV

March 27, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

Hoo, if you made that golf suggestion to Smoltz, I would pay a large sum to be there and watch. Hey, fundraiser!!

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

To revive a phrase from the blog many months ago, Smoltz was basically saying he wasn’t going to let us harsh his mellow.

By Pfunkatl

March 27, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

As a former toiler for the mouse, who had 5 nieces and nephews to take to the parks(UGHH), I KNOW that DOB is more than thrilled to leave the “dark star”

By FJR

March 27, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

Its also difficult to tell what role brian roberts PED use played. I mean I’m not saying he would have put any different stats, but its just too hard to tell.

If the rotation hadn’t already been set at this point, who thinks Smoltz would be pitching one of the first 2 games of the season now?

By Robert

March 27, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

Moylan has not looked good this spring. I hope he is indeed healthy

By 3trees

March 27, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

Big Ooops! That’s Jason NOT Justin. Forget that question, DOB (like you weren’t anyway).

But speaking of the Moody Blues… nah, forget it.

Go Braves!

By Epinephrine

March 27, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

Looks like Moylan would rather be anywhere than on the hill right now. I’d say his mind has already moved north.

By Bravetiger

March 27, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB - a question that I have wondered about for many years.

Since the Braves are breaking camp today, do most players and coach’s drive there own vehicles to spring training or do they rent? If they drive their own, how do they get them back to Atlanta since they fly back as a team?

Also, do most players stay in a team hotel or do most rent something like you have done.

As I said, just curious.

By UGA MAN

March 27, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN: SCARY MOMENT IN THE 1ST. TEX ALMOST SLIPPED AND COULD HAVE TORN SOMETHING

By Choppinmama

March 27, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

Was that a Francoeur Frank I saw down the first base line?

C’mon Braves bats, we’ve got some catching up to do.

By FJR

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

for those in cubicles.. CHipper just CRUSHED a ball to dead center after Esco sharply took one right back up the box, runners on second and third. Esco had to hold up on the cnace the ball was caught or he would have scored.

By FJR

March 27, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

Tex with a sac fly to score esco, french with a lazy pop to 2nd base to end the inning.

We hit Perez harder than the one run given up would indicate.

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

Cross starting off of the career options for Moylan. One inning, three hits, three runs, one walk in the first inning.

By FJR

March 27, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

McFann must be hyperventilating at B-mac hitting 8th, behind Kotsay.

By UGA MAN

March 27, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

KEYBOARD IS STUCK ON CAPS LOCK!! SORRY!!CRAPY SCHOOL COMPUTER! IT’S JUST LETTERS, SAME CONCEPT.

By DonCoburleone

March 27, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

FOR JOHN SMOLTZ:

Listen OLD MAN, it’s time to give up baseball because you’ve got nothing left. This recent shoulder injury is not going to go away and you’ll be lucky to throw 150 innings this year. But you don’t care do you? You are fine with stealing $11 million from the organization you’ve been with your entire career. Just do the honorable and smart thing and retire now, because you are only going to hurt the team this year.

By FJR

March 27, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

If Resop comes out there throwing strikes like this all year long, he’s going to dominate.

By UGA MAN

March 27, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

AND SOMEONE ELSE IS USING UGA MAN TOO.. SO IT’S ACTUALLY TWO OF US.

By OleJC

March 27, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Fired up about the season. Bringing my son from the ‘ham to see JS vs JS on Sunday the 6th. Can’t wait to see our JS in action.

By Big Easy

March 27, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

DOB - Same question from the previous blog entry - any news on these double-secret blue altnerate jerseys the Braves will wear Sunday night? Jonathon

Jonathon, are you a UniWatch reader, by any chance?

~E~

By Robert

March 27, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

IS Moylan Healthy

By TennesseePaul

March 27, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Giants need a catcher? All right! Maybe we can get Cain for Pena? Or possibly Cain and Lincincumcian for Pena. Maybe they’ll toss in Zito and about 140 million as well! WooooohoooooO!

Let’s get this show on the road. Spring Training is boring now.

By FJR

March 27, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

so that’s why mccann was hitting 8th against perez. He never had a chance on that AB.

By AstoriaMetsFan

March 27, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

1st Braves/Mets series

Hudson/Maine Glavine/Pelfrey Smoltz/Santana

Is this how pitching match-ups work out?

By Efrim

March 27, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Robert

Moylan has struggled a bit, but why would you think he isn’t healthy?

What are your expectations from Moylan this year?

He won’t be as good as he was last year, he simply couldn’t be. He was one of the most useful relievers in the sport last season. Maybe the best middle reliever.

Some type of regression is in store for this season. How could there not be?

By TennesseePaul

March 27, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Scary moment in the bottom of the First, I lost my bottle opener, but found it under the bon-bons

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

Robert, if he wasn’t I doubt they’d have left him out for the for the entire inning. Moylan entered with a 1.17 ER and .179 opponents’ average in eight spring appearances. You’re gonna have a bad outing now and then, and these are odd circumsances today. Everyone just wants to get out of here.

By 7hills

March 27, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

Been checking out the blog this spring and have truly enjoyed it. This is my first post to ANY blog but I had to give a shout out to DOB and all of you guys(Dobbers). Great combo of good info and fanly bantor. I live in Rome and am excited about Heyward and those four lefties who will be starting for us. Looks like the entire system is in great shape(except at first base, but I’m sure we are working on that). Thanks again Dave for all of the hard work.

By TennesseePaul

March 27, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

Glavine vs Pelt Me. Maybe Glav can clue in some Braves hitters as to Pelt Me’s subtle tells.

By OrlandoFan

March 27, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Tennpaul… Isn’t that amazing that Barry Zito is getting all that money and can’t pitch anymore. Just one of those things that makes you scratch your head. Seems like a lot of people must have seen that coming but didn’t tell the Giants.

By Roman Gal

March 27, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

I’ve decided that I don’t like the little swoosh above the ears on the caps.

By DannyDean

March 27, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

So you guys get ESPN at school UGAMAN? Hmmm

By Swiatek11

March 27, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

I can’t remember the last time the Braves had a bullpen that can shorten a game to 6 or 7 innings, especially when Gonzo comes back… Resop, Moylan, Gonzo, Soriano — finally good arms in the pen. I used to cringe when Yates and Wickman would enter the game. I am looking forward to this year…. I have a good feeling.

By GoBravos

March 27, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone-You should be wacked for a comment like that. Hopefully you were just trying to light a fire under Smoltz because if you really think that way you will surely be proven wrong this season. Smoltz 11 million=19 wins, 207 innings, 200 ks. GO Braves!!!!

By Oregon_Braves

March 27, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

Don C - Nice pep talk. I bet that will do the trick.

By FJR

March 27, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

nice play by the corkster on a weak bouncer, nasty K of church by ring, then another big K by ring. Way to get out of a 2 on no outs jam.

By DAP

March 27, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

great job by royce ring getting out of that jam with no runs scoring. it was 1st and 3rd, no outs, he got a roller that corky handled, then two strikeouts lefty then righty.

thats for you in the cubicles.

By TennesseePaul

March 27, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

Some type of regression is in store for this season. How could there not be?

He is a Brave, that’s how. He will dominate yet again and the women will flock to him like the Salmon of Capistrano.

By TJ

March 27, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

KJ is really crushing the ball against a tough lefty. That’s good to see.

By Epinephrine

March 27, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

Man, I can’t wait for that Prado platoon. Idiots.

By Random

March 27, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

UGA MAN—

Try holding down the Shift key as you type to get lower case letterage —I’m doing that right now with my Caps Lock on. (Watch the punctuation< though>)

8-)

By UGA MAN

March 27, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

AND I DID NOT WRITE THAT ABOUT TEX EARLIER!!

By TennesseePaul

March 27, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

OrlandoFan: Not terribly shocking actually. We have a 5th starter that pretty much set the standard for long term mega deals going to pitchers.

By KC

March 27, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

DOB: Do you have any idea why they would be starting Santana on Sunday??

It really makes no sense. He’s the opening day starter, right?

So he’s going to pitch on an extra day’s rest Sunday, which means he’ll miss the Phillies series.

If he pitched on Saturday, they could pitch him in both the Braves and Phillies series.

Weird.

By propp

March 27, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

152nd?

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Robert, just one other point regarding Moylan: I think somebody let the ump know after that inning that calling a postage-stamp-size strike zone wasn’t the way to go about things on spring getaway day (or at least I hope they did). It’s a minor league ump and he was seriously squeezing Moylan in the first inning.

By Robert

March 27, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

He did have a sore elbow earlier in ST

By Swiatek11

March 27, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

DAP — Thanks for the updates… I am a cubicler… I think Ring may be pushing Ohman for that lefty role… any thoughts DOB ?

By UGA MAN

March 27, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

O’Brien. About the new uniforms, i remember reading a while back about the Braves having new atlernate uniforms this year but never heard anything else about them. i know you said on here that they are being hush-hush about it, but do you know what are they suppose to look like (or close) or are they not saying anything about that either?

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

What a way to end the spring. Slowest, most painful game in weeks. Morton has no command here in the fourth inning. Bases are loaded with two outs after a hit-by-pitch and two walks.

By Robert

March 27, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

DOB

I am not concerned with Moylan’s skills. I know he will have another great year. I am a little concerned with the fact that he had a sore elbow, and he has not looked outstanding

By glorydays

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

could someone explain the differences between being optioned and assigned as well as other terms for being sent to the farm

By chase

March 27, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

Maybe this is a stupid question but WHY not keep a Versitile-Switch-Hitting Catcher/1b./OF Brayan Pena instead of the Sure Out Corky Miller?

By Lawton

March 27, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

glorydays, here is a good link that will help you out:

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

By flange1

March 27, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

UGA MAN,

Dude my advice is to chill. You offended the host and are now being aggressively obnoxious with someone trying to help you.

By Austin

March 27, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

Well at least the OF’s are getting to stretch out their legs chasing down Morton’s balls.

By Bobby's Cox

March 27, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

DOB:

Nice spring man. I think you’re ready for the season.

And i think you’re right about someone talking to the ump after the 1st. Seeing Escobar called out on strikes in his 2nd AB on a pitch 2 feet outside reminded me of the old glavine/maddux/’97 Livan Hernandez playoff game strike zone. Lets hope the umps are ready for the season.

By Lawton

March 27, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Chase, it is likely because Corky is the better receiver…..by a lot. The backup catcher will be catching one of the five starting pitchers and that starter needs to be very comfortable with his battery mate.

By Stuart

March 27, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

DOB will be able to explain it better, but I think when you have a major league tender (contract type thing) you are optioned to the minors, and you can only be optioned so many times. If a player does not make the club and is out of options, he has to go through waivers. If he is claimed, he goes to another team, or the optioning team can pull him back and keep him on the major league roster, kind of like tyler yates.

Assigned are guys that are in the miniors and they may play with the big club, but are assigned to the level of the minor league they are going to start. (Schaffer was assigned to AA.) I dont think they have major league tenders.

Outrighted is kind of like being cut. You are a major leaguer invited to camp and you dont make it, then you are outrighted to minors aka cut, you can take the job in AAA, or you can refuse and the organization lets you go and you are a free agent.

I think I got it right, I hope it helps.

By PatioDaddio

March 27, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Pharkin’ kids…..sometimes it take some of them 40 years to turn 25 years old and get it.

By Bobby's Cox

March 27, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

Captain Caveman:

Are you suggesting UGA MAN might contribute to the next campus shooting?

By BA

March 27, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

You guys love all caps? You should see the Hawks blog.

By Choppinmama

March 27, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

Morton’s been pitching like he has a load of sodium chloride in his pants.

C’mon Bobby, pull him and give us a fighting chance.

By bigchiefrg

March 27, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

I like my chances with Smoltzie on the bump with a 102 degree fever than about 99.9 percent of all other pitchers in the league. He plays every game like it is his last and anyone who has seen him running over people to shag fly balls during batting practice I think will agree. He is the BEST BRAVE EVER and everyone should give him that deserved respect. If he says he has plenty in the tank then I like our chances this year. Thanks DOB for the post, I live for these during Spring Trng.

By chase

March 27, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Lawton..I agree that that is THEIR reasoning BUT…does being a “Good Defensive Catcher” really matter ONCE ever 5 days?

I would rather have someone who can HIT rather than playing with essentially 7 hitters every 5th day! It is too much of a disadvantage!

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Stuart, you can’t pull a player back when you’re putting him on the kind of waivers you’re talking about now. These are irrevocable waivers, the ones you use to send a player to the minors when he’s out of options. If he’s claimed, you lose him.

By UGA MAN

March 27, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)

Go thing you got that off your chest, i wouldnt want you have a break down because your going insane because someone typed something in caps. Really hard to deal with that, i understand. but i had to so you could actually read it. Too bad you just did it too! what a hypocite.

By ChampDawg

March 27, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

So, we’ve found the key to keeping Smoltz healthy and feeling good this season?!* 20 minutes on the mound per week. Lovely way to start the season.

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Heyward struck out looking in his first AB.

Swiatek, Ring might make the team, but not at the expense of Ohman. Ohman is on the team. He did not have to win a job this spring.

By Bravetiger

March 27, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

DOB - Heyward is a big man. And with his lanky frame, he does have the potential to add weight and still look good. The other Dave O’Brien (the one on ESPN) even said that if the Braves don’t resign Tex, Heyward could be the starter at first base next year. That would be a stretch wouldn’t it?

He took a called third strike that looked a little low and possibly a tad outside. But as you said earlier, the ump may have gotten word that it’s getaway day.

By Stuart

March 27, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Did anyone ever pick up Ascanio from the Cubs? I thought I read that he was cut, which seems strange since the Cubs did give us 2 decent players for him.

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

KC, Mets writers aren’t quite sure why Santana’s going Sunday, why they’re not skipping a guy.They were told something about getting Pedro extra rest and also that Santana’s “not a pack mule, he’s Secretariat.”

Hey, just telling you what they’re telling me. They got a kick out of it, too.

By Lawton

March 27, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

Chase, most MLB managers and GMs would say unequivocally yes. The prototype for a backup catcher is a guy who is good enough to catch every day, but usually not good enough to hit every day.

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

Someone asked about Corky vs. Pena. Corky’s a far better defensive catcher and came-caller. And more of a power threat at this level, though that’s not nearly as important as the defensive component for the backup catcher, as the Braves see it.

By maddie

March 27, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

bobby’s cox, that comment was very uncool.

By Stuart

March 27, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the clarifiaction DOB. I was pulling from the top of my head on that one. Did I have the rest of it kind of on the money?

By Jim

March 27, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

big chief, If you mean the best Atlanta Brave ever, then you have a good case for naming Smoltz.

The BEST BRAVE EVER would have to be 1. Hank Aaron, 2. Warren Spahn, 3. now pick’em from (Matthews, Murphy, Maddux, Chipper, and Smoltz). Others that could get into the discussion for 3rd best Brave ever would be Glavine, Andruw, and Lew Burdett.

By Tommy

March 27, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Who is going to pitch the Friday night game against the Mets for us (our 5th game)?

Hudson, Glavine, Jurgens, Hampton, and then Who

By Ryan

March 27, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

Anyone know who’s pitching right now? Either I spaced out and missed it or ESPN doesn’t know. Probably a good thing he doesn’t have a name on the back of his jersey right now..Yikes

By UGA MAN

March 27, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

and the host was annoyed because i didnt want to hold down the shift key to type in lower case.. the other guy that was “trying to help me” was making fun of punctuation. If he was trying to help me he should speak up and tell me and will apologize to him/her. People can’t just read blogs and respond, it has to a paper typed perfectly.

and that crap about campus shootings is not funny. that’s some serious stuff and not something to joke about. i lost a friend at VT in that shooting.

Random if you were trying to help i am sorry. thank you. if not oh well maybe everyone is ok now

By Jason

March 27, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

DOB, a little off topic, but have you had a chance to see Teheran pitch at all this spring? If so, what are your thoughts?

By Jonathon

March 27, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

Big Easy,

I’m definitely a regular UniWatch reader. Guess you saw the same ticker item this morning that I did. I sure hope these blue alternates look better than the red jerseys.

By Alan

March 27, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

DOB, terrific analysis of Smoltzie’s psyche. He’s a great competitor (to use that old, worn-out cliche). I really like the Braves’ starting rotation, particularly if Hampton stays healthy, which is no sure thing by any means. In reply to Chase’s post (2:33), the Braves favor Miller over Pena because of defense. They want the backup catcher to be a solid defender, which Miller is and Pena isn’t. (Nor was Lopez, which is why he was cut.) I like Pena a lot - he’s a switch-hitter and a versatile player - but he doesn’t have much power, and that’s a commodity the Braves need on their bench.

By BA

March 27, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Uga man, what is a “hypocite”?

By MGL

March 27, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

uga man - I gather you are not an English major. I have a solution for you regarding all caps. Don’t blog at school.

By Braveheart

March 27, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

They were told something about getting Pedro extra rest and also that Santana’s “not a pack mule, he’s Secretariat.”

Gimme an old reliable Ford pickup truck like Smoltz anyday over Secretariat.

Why is that Ford pickup trucks are the only American cars that don’t fall to pieces after 50,000 miles?

Those suckers last forever.

Heyward looks like Darryl Strawberry in his physique.

I thought he was thicker than he is.

I often wonder how many homers Straw could have hit if he kept his nose clean.

He had 280 homers in his 20s. Only 55 thereafter.

He could have been the all time home run leader if he played full time during the roid era and averaged 45 homers a season.

By mahad

March 27, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

when do u see heyward in the bigs

By Bobby's Cox

March 27, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

I thought Heyward looked good at the plate. I know it was just 1 plate appearance, but I thought he looked really good up there against a lefty. He took at good cut at Perez’s 1-1 pitch, laid off a good 1-2 pitch before he got called out on a 1-2 pitch that painted the corner, a pitch many lefty hitters would’ve watched against a lefty.

Pretty good looking kid if you ask me. Already shows better plate discipline for an 18 year old than thorman. That 1-2 pitch would’ve got thorman and LaRoche flailing.

One more thought..that kid needs to learn 1B NOW! He’s too tall to be a big league outfielder & will have to learn 1B eventually, whether he’s 19, 29, or 35 cuz he’s too tall for those scrawny legs in the outfield. The comparison to Derek Lee was a good one. I remember watchign D. Lee one night in A-ball with the Cucamonga Quakes. He hit 3 homers that night & hooked the 4th one foul before he eventually struck out.

By Bob H

March 27, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

DOB: Great Blog……love all the Braves talk/insight, but the more important thing is that “Cheating at Solitaire” by Mike Ness better be good because - based on the infectious wave of enthusiasm in yesterday’s blog - I bought it on Amazon.com never having heard of him or Social Distortion……

By ChampDawg

March 27, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

Who the hell’s pitching today. NINE runs. Geez. Lookin’ good Braves, show those Mets who’s boss!!

By Stuart

March 27, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

I am listening to the game, so I do not say this with authority, but does it seem like the strike zone for O. Perez is freaking huge when he pitches against the braves?

By Random

March 27, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

So you were just being lazy, huh, UGA MAN?

Gee, thanks — hella thoughtful of you.

By BabyGoatEater

March 27, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

Stuart….

Asciano was cut from the big-league camp. He is a minor leaguer so he can go to their 3a team.

By TJ

March 27, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

Ryan, I don’t think ESPN ever bothered to mention who was pitching for ATL; and the mlb boxscore hasn’t updated in about 20 minutes. I don’t think anyone knows! Number 97, is all we have to go on.

By Robert

March 27, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

Hampton is going Friday

By HugeBaseballFan

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

O’Brien: who do you think that the braves forth outfielder is going to be?

By Lawton

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

Tommy, obviously DOB will know better than me, but with the off day on Tuesday, Glavine could pitch the 5th game on 4 days rest.

By Bobby's Cox

March 27, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

sorry maddie..it was a joke in response to the threads. But ya, what’s happened in this country to inspire what’s transpired on our campuses is just sad. my regrets.

By Big Easy

March 27, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Jonathon,

Good to see another UniWatcher here. Personally, I like the Sunday red jerseys. Hated ‘em at first, but they have definitely grown on me (and they look so much better in person than on TV). Looking forward to the alt blues. Hopefully they aren’t a copy of the BP uni, but something a bit more original.

~E~

By jb

March 27, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

I am wondering if there is any good reason to pay the extra 30 dollars for MLB.TV premium vs. MLB.TV. Can anyone give me any insight? thanks

By David

March 27, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

I just checked out this UniWatch blog a couple of you have mentioned today, fully expecting to get a chuckle at the expense of geeks talking about uniforms. Much to my pleasant surprise the main page is sporting a photo of a hot asian girl with baseball patches over her breasts as a uniform. I stand corrected - nice blog, that UniWatch!

By Stuart

March 27, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

Jurriens is tomorrow I think. Hampton on Saturday. (either/or)Hudson goes Sunday night in the opener. Glavine comes back for the home opener, then I think it is going to be the Jurriens, Hampton combo for the end of the Pittsburgh series. Then the rotation comes back to Hudson on Friday, Glavine on Saturday and if everything holds, Smoltzie on Sunday.

By Alan

March 27, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

DOB: I, too, have to commend you on your great work this spring. Thanks! Dark Star’s loss will be Atlanta’s gain. Have a safe, music-filled trip north.

By Lawton

March 27, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Tommy, I meant Hudson on 4-days rest.

By Swiatek11

March 27, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

DOB — Thanks for the insight on Ohman — how has he looked this spring against lefties ? Would you feel comfortable with him on the mound against a tough lefty late in the game ? This is where Mike Gonzalez coming back healthy is going to be huge.

By Tommy

March 27, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Robert,

How can Hampton go in the 5th game on Friday, if he is pitching the 4th game, which I think DOB said in one of these blogs??

Lawton may be onto something though, with the off-day in there, Huddy could pitch on Friday. hhmmmm…

By Random

March 27, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Yeah, bud, I really was just trying to help.

And that was no crack about punctuation — if you do keep the shift key down to counteract the caps lock, then your commas and periods come out <’s and >’s (as I tried to demonstrate parenthetically).

Total sincerity and naivete on my part.

No big.

By UGA MAN

March 27, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

No random, i was just typing correctly with both hands, not hunt-ang-pecking with one hand. thanks for asking.

Aww. i’m sorry BA i missed a letter while typing so you could not even read it all. i am soo sorry.. i’ll make sure everything is correctly spelled next time so you can understand it.

By Bobby's Cox

March 27, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

The red jerseys actually look a lot better on HD - and not so good on the regular tube.

If you can’t stand the red jersey JB, then i’d suggest you get fork over the extra $30 for MLB.TV premium, as the picture quality is supposed to be better.

By adam

March 27, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

DOB

I know you aren’t into really mellow music…(you were talkin about not liking DMB and such), but if you haven’t heard about Brett Dennen you might want to check him out. Kinda poppy, but not really. Not that I advocate this activity, but imagine a combo of Bob Dylan and Paul Simon rolled up and then smoked. Somewhere in that vain. Very interesting voice, enjoyable guiat, very stripped and simple, but he is an excellent lyricist and extremely socially aware. Has two albums: a self titled first album (which I would recommend first) and a second more recent entitled “So Much More.” Allegedly going to be coming on tour with John Mayer this summer. I may pay for tickets to go to the concert and leave when Brett is done….(no interest in John, or trying to hear music over screaming women who care more abou looks than music).

By geauxbraves2000

March 27, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

DOB, Have a safe trip back to ATL. BTW, you appear to fine American-American, keep up the good work.

The October parade starts Sunday night!

Geaux Braves!!

By ncscoots

March 27, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

“I’m in professional baseball now. Time to relax and have fun.”

Spoken exactly like a player with two weeks of hitting with a wooden bat, LOL. Ask him again when he’s played 130 games for the first time, and he’s tickling an oh-for-15 while trying to find the strength to pull his socks up. :-)

Seriously, he projects something fierce (I haven’t seen him play), but ya think we might let him have a 100 or so AB before bloggers start penciling him in for the big club?

By Austin

March 27, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

Cold Pizza said that Pedro would go on the 6th.

By WILL

March 27, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this

WHERE IS MY BLOG ABOUT THOSE SORRY BRAVES, CHIPPER AFTER THIS YEAR YOU WILL NEED TO HELP YOUR RARENTS IN THE FERN BUSINESS.

By ernesto

March 27, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

A heads up for anyone going with the Xtra Innings package, they’re having an early bird special, about $40 off until April 6th. Or at least that’s how it is for us stuck with Time Warner.

By Thrillhouse44

March 27, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

WILL, meet UGA MAN. Ya’ll have a LOT in common.

By MGL

March 27, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

uga man - A little touchy today? How old is your English teacher? The two spaces rule went out of style with poodle skirts.

By Renegator

March 27, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

Will

You suck

By flange1

March 27, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

Thanks Will for your input!

By jb

March 27, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

I still wonder what value Thorman has on the Braves roster. I’m still hoping he gets placed on waivers. Who in their right mind is going to trade for him, and who would want to pick him up off waivers to place on their roster? That AB to end the game is a typical AB for him. He has no defensive value, either. A pinch hitter off the bench has to put pressure on the pitcher and defense, therefore he must make contact. I would prefer to see Anderson or Blanco off the bench over Thorman. I know they don’t have power, but a least they put the ball in play.

By Steve C.

March 27, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Will, or WILL, as you would have it…

Are you serious or is this a joke? I think it would be pretty clear to all by now that the all caps is very annoying. In your case, it is actually the words that your capping that is even more irritating. Do you have a concise, clear point? Are you two years old? I have to go call my wife and see if she let our 2 year old on this blog. Good heavens, man…

By RC

March 27, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Anyone else picturing “WILL” as Randy Quaid from “Major League” right now? Someone get him a seat out in the center field and a Braves hat with an “X” duct taped over the A.

By Oregon_Braves

March 27, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Where there’s a Will, there’s a retard.

By ssiscribe

March 27, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

Finally, time to leave Dark Star and the Sunshine State behind, and get ready to get this thing rolling for real.

—30—

By chase

March 27, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

DOB and Lawton:

I know that the Conventional thinking is to have Defensive back-up catcher who calls a good game But!!!….

Wouldn’t it free the Braves up and give them more flexibility at other positions to keep PENA?

Also does the ability to “call a game” matter with pitchers like Smoltz, Hampton, Glavine, and Hudson…they are going to do what they want anyway!

When it comes to the BAT..DOB you think Corky is better? with more power?

All I remember is from last year is everytime he came up to bat it was a sure out or DP! On the other hand I recall a game against the CUBS I beleive where PENA’s PURE HUSTLE allowed the 9th inning to continue and the Braves won.

It just feels like he has a better chance of coming up with a hit than Corkey and I can’t imagine their power is that far apart, I’ve seen PENA hit 2-3 in his Major League time compared to Corky’s 1 with the Braves!

By Pete H.

March 27, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

Oh, goody, Braves on ESPN Sunday night. Go season, go Braves!

By Random

March 27, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

DOB—

And something that I haven’t seen specifically mentioned regarding why the Braves would value an ace-caliber defensive catcher for back-up (though it may be implicit in what both you and Alan have already said), is the likely regular use of the back-up as a routine late inning(s) defensive replacement, which would spare the Heap from some wear and tear in addition to his anticipated every fifth day off.

By flgrk

March 27, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Nice to see Thorman not disappoint in ending the game with a strikeout. I’m pretty sure Bobby Cox grimaced when they cut to him after Thorman whiffed by at least a foot.

By Clown Scientist Panda Man Pretend Monster Toucher Hello What Is Porridge, Exactly?

March 27, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

I’m somewhat new to the blog, so could some kind soul tell me whether DonCoburleone was being sarcastic or whether he is, in fact, a waterhead.

LYLAS

By flange1

March 27, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Do y’all think that WILL is just Jared with an assumed name and that he is still ticked about Bennett pitching well yesterday?

By Turfmen

March 27, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

UGA Man is embarrasing UGA fans on here

By Renegator

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

WILL

I AM THE GUY THAT SELLS PEANUTS AT THE PARK. WOULD YOU LIKE SOME? ONLY $16 A BAG…

By RC

March 27, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

I’m a big fan of the new blog feature in which irrational, misspelled rants are put in all CAPS to make them easier to avoid. Thanks AJC!

By Jon1

March 27, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

As some have already said Heyward needs to learn 1B. He is 6’5” and 230lbs and only 18 or 19. He is going to put on muscle before he ever gets to the big league club. That post about him taking the starting 1B job next year if the Braves are unable to re-sign Tex is totally unrealistic though. Last year the guy was still in High School!!

If the Braves are sold on him being at 1B then they won’t resign Tex but rather go out and get a stop gap player like they did this year with Kotsay at a MUCH cheaper price tag. Have the Braves even made any indications that they might start teaching the kid the 1B position like they are going to do with Tyler Flowers?

By Lew

March 27, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

I don’t know-It sounds like both UGAMan and Don C have wicked cases of hemorrhoids. Might we suggest something topically applied?

By Reid in EAV

March 27, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

Wow, DOB hops on a plane north and everything goes to hell around here.

Take a good look, gentlemen, and survey the wreckage. What you’re soaking in is every other AJC blog.

By TennesseePaul

March 27, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

but ya think we might let him have a 100 or so AB before bloggers start penciling him in for the big club

Whoa, slow down there Scoots. Bennett had all of 2 MLB starts and he was already put in charge of 70 innings of long relief plus 150 innings of starting. I think Heyward is ready to hit clean up on the big club.
Strong hands. Smell like cabbage. Nomad you know.

By flange1

March 27, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Clown etc,

Read DOB’s intro about Smoltz. DonC was being cute trying to fire Big john up…

By UGA MAN 2

March 27, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

Turfmen

Well, your embarassing all men on this blog!

By Anders

March 27, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

DOB

You’re gonna have a bad outing now and then, and these are odd circumsances today. Everyone just wants to get out of here.

Are you quoting Tom Glavine from that fateful Sunday last September?

By Random

March 27, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Tommy: Who is going to pitch the Friday night game against the Mets for us (our 5th game)?

Hudson, Glavine, Jurgens, Hampton, and then Who

Obviously Hudson — simply rinse and repeat.

S M (T) W T F S S M T =

Hudson Glavine (Smoltz’ turn, but not pitching on offday/DL) Jurrjens Hampton

Hudson Glavine Smoltz (season debut for the big B.I.) Jurrjens Hampton

Rinse and repeat.

By Lawton

March 27, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Chase, a couple of things…

1) Yes it does matter who is calling the game, even with a veteran. it breaks a pitchers rhythm when he is constantly shaking off the catcher.

2) Keeping a catcher who can hit and play other positions does not give flexibility at other positons. The reason is that when teams carry two catchers, the manager almost never inserts the backup catcher into the game unless he is completely out of options. They rarely pinch-hit and they would rarely be asked to enter the game defensively at another position. The fact is that a backup catcher generally ONLY plays on the days when he starts unless the team runs out of position players as in an extra inning game or something.

3) It makes sense to carry a catcher who can hit and is just adequate defensively when you are thinking of carrying a third catcher who might also serve as a utility guy. I’m sure the Braves have considered keeping Pena rather than Thorman because he is a switch hitter and has played bother corner infield spots and both corner outfield spots.

By BA

March 27, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Looks like the internet is alive and well in the trailer parks of Georgia.

By Jon1

March 27, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

DOB What are the chances of the following prospects getting called up due to injury or when the roster expands? Pitchers… Thomas Hanson, Erick Cordier, Kris Medlen, Cole Rohrbough and Jeff Locke Fielders…. Jon Gilmore, Van Pope, Tyler Flowers.

By Anders

March 27, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

DOB

Robert, just one other point regarding Moylan: I think somebody let the ump know after that inning that calling a postage-stamp-size strike zone wasn’t the way to go about things on spring getaway day (or at least I hope they did). It’s a minor league ump and he was seriously squeezing Moylan in the first inning.

Wah, wah, wah. Cripes - take it like a man for once, would ya?

By ncscoots

March 27, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

TPaul, isn’t Bennett also in charge of sunflower-seed cleanup and pizza runs? Gotta keep the boy busy, so he can earn his pay, right?

By Anders

March 27, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

DOB

What a way to end the spring. Slowest, most painful game in weeks. Morton has no command here in the fourth inning. Bases are loaded with two outs after a hit-by-pitch and two walks.

Try ending a season like that. If you don’t believe me just ask old # 47.

By Zbo

March 27, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

DOB, In response to your comments on Heyward “not getting his hips into into it”. I’m not sure how much you know about the mechanics of a swing, but if the hips don’t open then the shoulders don’t rotate and the bat has no speed or power. Maybe you meant that he has a quiet approach at the plate but I can assure you that if he is hitting the ball 450 ft then his lower body is very much involved in his swing.

By brian

March 27, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

how about a comparison between Pena and Thorman? I know that a lot will have to do with who they get a better trade offer for, but if the Braves have to cut one, how do they compare for the Braves?

I think with Pena’s versatility and the fact that he can fill in at first base makes him the keeper. Thorman also should stand a better shot at making it through waivers than Pena due to the catching.

Lots of decisions for Cox - the last bullpen spot, backup catcher, Pena versus Thorman, Anderson versus Blanco, and what to do with Borchard.

By Lew

March 27, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

Only way I’d apply it is with a six foot long 2x4-still interested? Dude, you’re giving UGA a bad name.

By TDub

March 27, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

Why do I get the feeling that the guys who write in all caps on this blog are the same guys who draw pictures of genitalia in public restrooms?

By Lew

March 27, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Anders-You want us all to drop the Glavine thing when referencing your posts, but Dude, that’s all you talk about. Oh well, at least you don’t post all in caps and you like Montreal. There must be something to you-I think.

By ObiWanKobe

March 27, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Anders, You may enjoy this

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVyhSzU5dV0&feature=related

By Random

March 27, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

sarcastic

By McFann

March 27, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Boy, these all-caps people are making me really appreciate DAP.

; )

UGA MAN 2’s 4:18 post was pure crud and made know sense at all. Dude, you do know that Francoeur married a woman, right? Sheesh.

All caps won’t make people read your posts, guys. It actually hurts the eyes. Plus, seeing all caps will help us know that it’s you without even looking at the name, so we’ll scroll on past your, ahem: “comments”.

Dude, where’s DOB when we need him?

(Well, he’s prob’ly on his way home after his great coverage of Spring Training.)

Very boring game, I must say. Was not sorry to see it end. Same goes for Spring Training, really…

Roman Gal—

I don’t like those hats, either.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 27, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Nine runs ! Where is Chuck James when we need him? :)

Chris Medlen pitched the ninth? Now I’m gonna have to go back and watch this game. This kid has put up phenomenal numbers down in the minors.

As for Jason Heyward, lots of potential and the sky is the limit. He could be the next Ryan Howard or he could be Mike Kelly, give it time.

Smoltz is laughing at the critics, the man will pitch until his arm falls off.

P.S. the dude really is a freak of nature. What do Randy Johnson and John Smoltz have in common? And it has nothing to do with baseball and everything to do with their shared success on the diamond.

Wrack your brain, only a few hardcore fans know the answer.

By flange1

March 27, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Hey Lew,

Is it a full moon in the middle of the day today or what?

And guess what, ANDERS is back!!!

Here come the TG digs over and over and over etc….

By woogidy

March 27, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

What the heck, Who brought the idiots out today?

By David

March 27, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

RC’s 4:30 PM post was very funny.

By Jon1

March 27, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

I don’t think any one is arguing that the pitching staff is old. The question should be are they still effective? Let’s look at the numbers from last year…

John Smoltz:14-8,3.11 ERA, 33 GS, 205 IP and 197 SO The numbers don’t lie! Smoltz is still a top tier elite pitcher. Yes, even at his age.

Tom Glavine:13-8, 4.45 ERA,34 GS, 200 IP, 89 SO Once again the numbers don’t lie, but this time they aren’t as positive as Smoltz’. Glavine is not what he once was. His age has forced him to be a different kind of pitcher than before. Still, for 8 Mill the Braves got an experienced LH starter who can realistically give them 12-15 wins with around a 4 ERA while eating up around 200 IP. What LH starter did we have last year that could do that?

Mike Hampton: Oh wait; he didn’t pitch last year or the year before! Oh, god why didn’t some one tell me! Our season’s ruined! I guess we should have cut him and given him his 13+ Million we owe him for this year even though he’s been on fire all spring. Get real!

By chase

March 27, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Let’s not forget that before he was hit in the head on a backswing, PENA was the back-up catcher for the Braves…

When he got hit, he went on the DL and that opened it up for SALTY!

So they thought enough of his abilities to be the back-up for half the year last year!

I really don’t care…its just that I hate feeling like we are playing ONE batter down every 5th day…and that is how it felt with Corky and Pratt before him!

By Pete H.

March 27, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

Will is a typical, garden-variety Mutts fan. The maturity, deep analysis, and cordiality of his posts are indicative of the actual level of the average Mutt fan. These are type of people who think Keith Hernandez should be in the HOF along with George Foster and Howard Johnson.

They are the most ignorant fans in the world. Yankee fans, despite being insufferable, at least know baseball.

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

Just got to the airport and went through the slowest security lines in America, bar none. Every time I go to this airport, I’m amazed it can be so much slower than Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Philly, or anywhere else we go. Just excruciating, this Orlando airport security….

Flange1, thanks for the warning. Should be getting some new and refreshing Glavine-stunk-in-his-last three-starts news flashes from our one-note wonder. Oh, wait, that’s right. It wasn’t his last three starts. Somehow, it was more than that, right? (had to pull the chain, for fun.)

By Lawton

March 27, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

Pena or Thorman?

Pena will be the better pinch-hitter in most situations. He is a switch-hitter and is a better fundamental hitter that battles every at bat. He doesn’t make many weak outs. Also, his being a switch-hitter is a big plus as a late inning pinch-hitter when opposing managers will play the lefty/righty matchup game.

Thorman has massive power but does give you a lot of weak at bats. He is not a very good situational hitter and opposing managers would often go the lefty when Thorman is inserted as a late-innning pinch hitter.

Both are average to below-average baserunners and both are below average defensively at first base.

My take is that Pena is the better choice for this season because of the versality offensively and defensively and because he is a very good situational hitter. But, it is likely that Tex may be gone after this season. And it seems to me that the Braves haven’t completely written him off as an every day option at first base should Tex walk at the end of the season. So, with Thorman being out of options, the may keep is an an option in case Tex does walk.

One other aspect is that Thorman is very, very well-liked in the clubhouse. On the other hand, Pena is a big brother to Yunel which could come in handy during Yunel first full season.

A lot to think about. However, another possibility is neithter making the team, but the Braves bringing in a backup corner IFer via trade or off the waiver wire.

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

Zbo, regarding your 4:50 post: I made the mistake of talking to the manager, hitting coach and a couple other guys around the cage about Heyward’s swing. I didn’t see you or I would’ve asked for your opinion….

Just got to the airport and went through the slowest security lines in America, bar none. Every time I go to this airport, I’m amazed it can be so much slower than Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Philly, or anywhere else we go. Just excruciating, this Orlando airport security….

Flange1, thanks for the warning. Should be getting some new and refreshing Glavine-stunk-in-his-last three-starts news flashes from our one-note wonder. Oh, wait, that’s right. It wasn’t his last three starts. Somehow, it was more than that, right? (had to pull the chain, for fun.)

By GSU-Lee

March 27, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

Will, UGA MAN, NASCAR Dave, UGA MAN 2,, The all caps thing is seriously ANNOYING! Could you read that? I put it in all caps for you. I don’t know, maybe you don’t even realize your all caps button is pressed or you don’t know how to turn it off. DOB, I think it needs to be a rule from now on that you can’t do ALL CAPS ALL THE TIME, or maybe we could use Thorman as a goon to beat up on the people who do it? I mean he probably won’t be busy this year.

By The Dean 21

March 27, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

Will, Hmmmm Vietnam Vet and you have the nerve to be calling someone old. The reason you are typing in CAPS is because of your old azz eyes. Get tested or just get off the blog MAN!

Why someone would post or better yet calls himself a spin-off from another blogger is a mystery to his own gender??? Well UGA MAN 2, you sir are a dumb-azz and tad bit lady like if you ask me. Grow up and get your own name before you post on a blog!

If you don’t like the Braves, kindly post on a blog of the team you do like, unless you have nothing else better to do with your pathetic lives!

By UGA MAN 2

March 27, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

Lew

I’m still interested if you are.

By Anders

March 27, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

Coach

What do Randy Johnson and John Smoltz have in common? And it has nothing to do with baseball and everything to do with their shared success on the diamond.

They have the same stylist? I mean, that was pretty obvious -no?

By UGA MAN

March 27, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

when i did typed in caps it was like 4 hours ago.. let it go..

By Lawton

March 27, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

Chase,

There is another aspect to the backup catcher situation.

This is my understanding of the situation, but there are others who may have more clarity. I live in Richmond and this version of events seems to be pretty accurate.

When the Braves broke camp last year there was a misunderstanding between Corky and Braves management. Corky thought he had won the backup job in Atlanta and was very surprised when he was sent to Richmond. He wasn’t happy, but he handled it like a professional. He never complained. He went to Richmond and did everything that was asked of him and more. He was basically an extra coach on the field and he was a great influence on younger players like Lillibridge, Prado and others.

Corky is well-respected for how he handled that situation and it another piece of the puzzle that could play into Corky’s earning the backup role in Atlanta this season.

By Jon1

March 27, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

In my humble opinion these are good numbers to expect from Hampton this year if he stays healthy.

10-6, 125-140IP, 25-28 GS, 4.00 ERA, 55-60 SO

Anything beyond that would be welcomed but it would be delusional to expect it after a 2 1/2 year lay off.

By The Dean 21

March 27, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

Pete H. - well put sir.

It seems that every year we attract the mutts at a high volume and we need an exterminator (The Braves) to fight them off. Afterwards, being at the ole ball park will be much more entertaining.

By flange1

March 27, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

DOB,

As much as you hate Dark Star, I hate the Orlando Airport. It is without a doubt the worst airport in the South East.

As you say the lines are long and the screaming kids are everywhere.

Be careful of the Outback in the terminal, I always get indigestion there!

By Anders

March 27, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this

DOB

This one note wonder had the Santana deal too. Somehow that never comes up from you. Oh yeah, the Wickman and Dotel explosions too. Pulling the chain is fun!

BTW- Orlando is the slowest for two reasons. First - lot’s of people who travel once a year or less and bring kids. “Oh, I have to take my shoes off and put them where? Oh the kids do too?” Lot’s of that. Two - well it’s Florida, everythings slow.

Well I have to get back to my radar screen here at the Atlantic Seaboard FAA control room - what was your flight # again?

By chase

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

Lawton and others..

Just one more thing to consider on the PENA/CORKY situation…

What if McCann got hurt? Who would you rather be the everyday catcher, PENA or Corky Miller…HMMMMM?

By Jon1

March 27, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

DOB

What about those prospects I posted earlier? Could any of them get a call up during the season?

By David-ATL14

March 27, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

Blog Decorum must have jumped on the plane with DOB also.

Thankfully not too many days like this.

By Anders

March 27, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

Pete H

These are type of people who think Keith Hernandez should be in the HOF along with George Foster and Howard Johnson.

Wait - they’re not?

Let it go Harnisch, you were never a Met in my eyes.That is you - right?

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

Jon1, I think that’s probably about right on Hampton projections, though at times while watching him this spring, don’t you get the feeling he might just surprise us all? We’ll see. But yes, those look like fair projections.

By UGA MAN 2

March 27, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

GSU-Lee

No need to get feisty and mean.

By The Dean 21

March 27, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

DOB, will the Braves wear the new uniforms to replace the red uniforms on Sundays or are we in for a complete uniform change? Have you heard anything about Bennett entering the starting line-up until Smoltz returns?

By Anders

March 27, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

Guys, seriously go back and read the blog for the last couple of days. It’s like a freaking wake. How much can you talk about the 7th guy in the bullpen, back up catchers and Bob Dylan? Spar a little and get the juices flowing. Opening day is right around the corner. Don’t let DOB’s manic depressive nature drag you down. If he hates “Dark Star” so much he should quit. Otherwise stop bellyaching about it. God - it’s like having an on line wife who never stops b*** about the same crap you can’t do anything about.

There, somebody had to say it.

By Lew

March 27, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

UGAMan-If you’re still interested under those circumstances, you have many more serious problems than typing with only one hand, or just having half a brain.

By OrlandoFan

March 27, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

DOB You need to invest in a Clear Card. I can send you the info if you want. It will get you through a lot of airports a lot faster. As much as you travel, it’s worth the money (and a tax deduction). But I think Phoenix is MUCH worse for security than Orlando. We just don’t like it when people leave!

By chase

March 27, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

I hear ya LAWTON! and I am not trying to specifically argue with you, I just feel like, in the long run, PENA is more valuable than CORKY or Thorman.

HOWEVER, if you can get a great deal or even a pretty good deal for him…then do it! But if it comes to trying to sneak him or Corky through waivers or send Corky back to Richmond..PLEASE KEEP PENYA in tha situation!

By Nate

March 27, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

If McCann gets hurt Sammons will get called up and take over most of the playing time. The only reason he got sent to Richmond was so that he could continue to get at bats.

By Lawton

March 27, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

Chase,

My hunch is neither. I beleive if McCann were to get injured, Sammons would be the guy to fill in as the regular catcher. Just my hunch.

By Spazz

March 27, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

Any chance they could trade Thorman for Bonds?

By UGA MAN 2The Dean 212

March 27, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

The Dean 21

I love the Braves. And I am not a dumb a$$. Please watch your language. Their might be children on the blog.

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

Dean, the blue unis, to my understanding, would be a road alternate. They’ll still wear the reds for Sunday home games.

Oh, and I thought I’d been pretty clear, but perhaps not: They’re not using a fifth starter before Smoltz returns. No need to, because Hudson and Glavine will be on regular rest in games 5 and 6.

Bennett might be on the team, but not in the rotation, provided Smoltz returns April 6 as planned. They’re probably gonna keep an eighth reliever the first week, in Smoltz’s roster spot. Then I don’t know who’d get sent down when Smoltz returns.

By Chase

March 27, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

It’s cool, Chase. I don’t think you were arguing. You was posing some solid questions and I was just giving you my two cents. It’s all good.

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

flange1, we avoided the Outback. got a turkey sandwich at the ostensibly healthy place next to Starbucks. Fresh something or other, it’s called.

By UGA MAN 2The Dean 212

March 27, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

Lew

A giant human-sized piranha bit off 1/4 of my brain when I was a child.

Not an issue to joke around with.

By Dumba$$

March 27, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

UGA MAN 2

Please watch your language. Their might be children on the blog.

Thank you for that as my kids Smart and Wise frequent this blog quite often.

By BA

March 27, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

Anders sounds like the Dwight Yokam character in “Slingblade”.

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

OrlandoFan, I don’t need the ClearCard. Because I come to this airport only twice a year, and it’s the ONLY airport I go to that doesn’t have a preferred line for Crown Room and/or gold medallion-or-higher Delta. The ONLY airport where there’s no such line. And that’s why regular security is so excruciating here, because they have a Hooterville setup with about six x-ray machines for everyone except the ClearCard purchasers. No thanks. I’ll just grin and bear it once or twice a year here. When other airports stop offering preferred security lines for their frequent fliers or Crown Room members, then I’ll worry about your ClearCard. That’s an Orlando thing.

By Jim

March 27, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I emphasize with your experience at a Florida airport. I thought the Miami airport was the worst one I’ve ever been in. I remember once being near the front of the baggage check-in line when that line closed and a new one opened a short distance away. We had to go to the new line and wait for the baggage to be inspected. In this line the baggage arrival rate far exceeded the service rate (a condition for an infinite queue size limit). It was very un-nerving watching the clock get closer and closer to the departure time while the bag just sat in the queue and the attendant yelled at anyone who tried to move up to a place where they had a better view of what was happening to their bag. Only my irritating insistence got the attendant to get my bag through the checker (and a manual check that was probably done to irritate me) before the scheduled departure time. I wouldn’t have worried so much about missing my flight had I known that the departure gate was going to be changed twice more and the flight delayed both while I was in the airport and again on the ground. Kennedy or Heathrow have never been as bad an experience as Miami. Sounds like Florida is one place to be only visited by car if it weren’t so darn big.

By OrlandoFan

March 27, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

Didn’t know that about the Crown Room lines. Good to know.

By BRAVESNATION4EVER

March 27, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

OUR bullpen has ALWAYS been a troublespot and that is JUST the REASON for OUR OCTOBER HEARTBREAK losing in the FALL CLASSIC 4 TIMES to those minesota twins,toronto blue jays and the yankees twice and in GAME 4 of the 05 DIVISION SERIES losing to the houston astros after OUR BRAVES had a 5-RUN LEAD in that game and THEY give up a homer in the 18 INNING,the LONGEST POSTSEASON GAME in the HISTORY of this MOST HATED GAME OF ALL and ONLY a TRUE CLOSER is the ANSWER if BRAVESNATION is going to END THEIR OCTOBER HEARTBREAK and START WINNING IN OCTOBER for YEARS to come.

NOT TO MENTION when the bullpen blew so many SAVE OPPORTUNIES in 06 and 07 and a TRUE CLOSER is the OLNY ANSWER if this TEAM is going to go DEEP into OCTOBER for YEARS in the FUTURE.

ALSO I have been hearing about this GUY MARCUS THAMES as of late I wonder who HE is?I AM not EVEN FAMILIAR with this GUY.

By The Dean 21

March 27, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB: Then let the season begin!

By Anders

March 27, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

DOB

Just curious- While away on my early spring vacation to the far far away land of Midlothian Va. where they care not to share any updates on all things Braves I did happen across an old Simpson’s episode. When on the screen comes “Disco Stu” I couldn’t help notice the resemblance to you (with out the disco fro of course)from the few pictures of you I’ve seen. Certainly you’ve been told this before?

By fastasballs

March 27, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB What time does BP get going on Sunday in DC? If all goes well I’ll still be there on Sunday night & I have access to a few tickets. I’m sure being opening day & the grand opening of the Nat’s new park the crowd will be big & an early arriving one at that.

I’m going to head out for a quick ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway while the weather is still nice & warm. Getting any riding in while at spring training?

By Jack G

March 27, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

I like all CAPS when you get old and have weak eyes caps are easier to read.

Now you children behave and quit this name calling.

By fastasballs

March 27, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB What time does BP get going on Sunday in DC? If all goes well I’ll still be there on Sunday night & I have access to a few tickets. I’m sure being opening day & the grand opening of the Nat’s new park the crowd will be big & an early arriving one at that.

I’m going to head out for a quick ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway while the weather is still nice & warm. Getting any riding in while at spring training?

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

BA, months ago we had a stretch where folks were assigning voices to frequent bloggers. And I swear for the next month or so, every time I’d read a certain person’s post, I’d think of that voice if it was a particularly appropriate one. You’ve now assigned one that fits perfectly.

By TexasBrave

March 27, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

Then I don’t know who’d get sent down when Smoltz returns. DOB

Well I was just to about to post you that very question. Any opinions?

Before Smoltz’s “Injury” I would have said Bennett would be starting the season at Richmond. However, now can you really take the chance that you might need him. I mean if someone gets placed on the DL then you can call someone up, but if an injury or short outing occurs occurs during the game that you need a significant number of innings then you will need that long relief man or you are going to burn a lot of relievers most of which are not used to going more than one inning.

My gut says to roll the dice and send Bennett down and keep Ring. But sooner or later one of Ring, Resop or Boyer is going to be lost when Gonzalez returns. At least this would give you a longer look at those three.

By ole timerbrave

March 27, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

DOB, Thanks for a great job of Spring Training coverage. This has been my first, but not last time of following the Braves year round. If it wasn’t for your blog, I’d be lost this time of year.

I’ve been watching the Braves since 1969, I seen some worst times, then worst I seen the Braves go from worst to first and the whole 14 yr run. I have gotten so tied up in it that I will record every game I can, just to look back and see how players did in a game. I’ll get off of my obsession!

I’m still waiting to get rid of Thorman and get a good backup to Tex, maybe even Salty back.

By David O'Brien

March 27, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

Just one last cover-song comment by me, if I’m not mistaken no one mentioned Talking Heads’ “Take Me To The River.” Not as exquisite as Mr. Al Green’s version, but great in its own way.

OK, got a flight to catch. Don’t let irrelevant interlopers bring the discourse down to base levels, denizens. We got a good thing going. Be good American-Americans.

By Chop Chop

March 27, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

I try to imagine every post being read by the venerable Bobcat Goldthwait.

On covers…How about Nirvana’s cover of Bowie’s “The Man Who Sold the World”? Good stuff.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 27, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

I agree with TexasBrave, it is a 162 game marathon. Sending Bennett back to Richmond makes sense because it allows the Braves to keep Boyer, Resop and Ring (all three out of options) in the bullpen along with Soriano, Moylan, Acosta and Ohman. If needed, Bennett can always be recalled.

Those Mets have Santana, Maine, Pedro, Perez and a prayer.

They’re doomed and they don’t know it yet.

By DonCoburleone

March 27, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

My Best Case Scenario for Hampton: 30 starts, 180IP, 3.95ERA, 110SO’s, 12 Wins.

Conservative Prediction: 20 Starts, 115IP, 4.30ERA, 65SO’s, 8 wins.

What WILL happen: 4 Starts, 23IP, 4.50ERA, 12SO’s, 1 win.

I hope he proves me wrong, but I’m betting he won’t make it out of April…

By ole timerbrave

March 27, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

Just heard on the mlb radio about Pascual Perez driving around Atlanta on I-285 and kept missing the stadium! Seems like yesterday!

By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)

March 27, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

DOB

WHY WAS MY ALL-CAPS POST ABOUT PEOPLE WRITING IN ALL-CAPS REMOVED FROM THE BLOG?? I AM VERY UPSET AS YOU CAN TELL BY MY ALL-CAPS TEMPER TAMTRUM. I AM NOW VERY VERY UPSET BECAUSE NOW I AM WRITING IN ALL-CAPS AND THIS IS UPSETTING ME. PLEASE MAKE ME STOP. I NEED HELP !!

By Lew

March 27, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

DonC-Hampton will only win one game and Smoltz is little better than a walking corpse. Who else is on your Death Watch?

By ole timerbrave

March 27, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone: Isee you getting proving wrong about Hampton and also see your Best Case Scenario for Hampton: 30 starts, 180IP, 3.95ERA, 110SO’s, 12 Wins.

I looking at 210 IP and 16 wins. Maybe more stats different but I’m not into stats that much. I’m keeping a positive attitude this year.

By chuckaluck

March 27, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

DOB Glad you had an interesing last day at Dark Star. Let me tell you about my day at the ol’ ballpark. Drove from Georgia to Disney this morning, left at 5. Took a wrong turn off the turnpike and went 45 minutes out of the way. Good thing. Got to the park 30 minutes before gametime. Was standing in line to buy SRO tickets because it was a sellout. Then this nice dude named Brad walked up. Won 10 free tickets yesterday to today’s game. He offered me and my wife two free tickets, free food and drink. Was 10 rows behind Mets dugout. Only bad thing was surrounded by Muts fans. But you know free beer, free hot dogs and free baseball. Heck, by the third inning I was even chanting Larry when Hoss came up. It was pretty obvious I wasn’t from Yonkers with my Alabama drawl. But I was just joking. My day at Dark Star was the best.

By Shamus Thacker

March 27, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

If he makes four starts, I’ll be in ultra-mega-super-duper-stunned disbelief. I’ll prolly start handling snakes and talking in tongues….

By Shamus Thacker

March 27, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

BUT, nobody’s pullin for the guy more than I am. I just have no faith in his bones, muscles, and joints; they’ll never last 4 games.

I could prolly use a little snake handling and tongue talking at this point andyway, so I hope against hope that he makes it…

By Shamus Thacker

March 27, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

Captain, I’d be glad to help, but idiocy is incurable unfortunately….

By Wayne in Utah

March 27, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

Good to hear that Gunderson and Medlen got in an inning today. These are two of many promising young prospects we have in our system. I am excited for our Braves staff 3-5 years from now with the talent we have coming up.

By Wayne in Utah

March 27, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

Good to hear that Gunderson and Medlen got in an inning today. These are two of many promising young prospects we have in our system. I am excited for our Braves staff 3-5 years from now with the talent we have coming up.

By DonCoburleone

March 27, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

Lew in all seriousness I posted the stuff about Smoltz in case he reads it, from what DOB said it sounds like he thrives on that kind of negative talk. And as far as Hampton goes, do you believe that the odds of him pitching through April with no problems is not at best a coin flip?

By uga-brave

March 27, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

might have to change my name after all the crap i just read.

By ernesto

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

Anders, you planning any more trips to Virginia or are you going to wait and see who wins the first series?

By Pete H.

March 27, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this

He may have struck out today, on a pitch three inches below the knee, but Heyward is going to be a very, very important guy for us, moreso than Schafer. He’s Fred McGriff with a lot more speed and talent. I think he will get to the majors much faster than Fred did, and put up similar numbers, but with about five more years at the front end and a few more at the back. In other words, he could be our best 1B ever.

I know he loves playing the outfield, but he fits our real need, a slugging 1B. He ain’t taking Frenchy’s job, he’s not a real ML CF, and he’s wasted in left. I would give him a 1B glove and start working him right now.

By Shamus Thacker

March 27, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

I’m 15-miles from Rome. Gonna be a fun team to watch this year. Great ballpark too.

By Jersey City

March 27, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

Spring training sweep…..Lets take it into the regular season boys.

By Danko

March 27, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

One of my favorite covers right now is Isbell covering the yet to be released (as far as I know) Hood solo effort “Assassins” Also love Isbell and the 400 unit’s version of “Psycho Killer” Both are on youtube.

By Jersey City

March 27, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this

I know it’s only spring training but if the Braves had swept the Mets the chatter could be heard all the way to Queens. LETS GO METS . I expect the Mets to be underestimated by the Braves faithful. We will win the division despite all the bull that comes out from here!! One more f-ing time LET GO METS!!!

By Jon

March 27, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

Jersey City Are you kidding me dude? Its spring training, doesnt mean anything at all, and beyond that Moylan started the game, so get off of it and get a grip.

By Epinephrine

March 27, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

Actually, Jersey City, I doubt many of even knew there had been a “sweep”. I guess that’s to be expected when two of our games were filled with minor league regulars (pitchers today, hitters last game). No, I’m afraid we were too busy here feeling pretty darn good about the fact that our biggest worry is the possible addition of a bat off the bench. By the way, you guys figure out your starter yet? Between Pelfrey and El Duque-gosh, its gotta be tough to send one of those guys down. What a wonderful problem to have!

By chuckaluck

March 27, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

Hey Jersey, I heard that stuff the whole game today from the Muts fans that surrounded me. As I told them, the games don’t count. Now, if you sweep us next weekend, then start that crap. Don’t see that happening.

By JimD

March 27, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

Jersey City, your. and. (obnoxious) idiot.

By Jersey City

March 27, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

I know and you’re right. It’s only spring training but as I said b4. If it were the braves it would be going on and on and on.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

March 27, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

I just wanted copy this snippet from the Braves/MLB website, it’s eye popping stuff.

While throwing a scoreless inning for the Braves in their Grapefruit League season finale at Disney’s Champion Stadium on Thursday afternoon, Resop recorded an inning-ending strikeout of the Mets’ Damion Easley with a 98-mph fastball. Earlier in the inning, one of his pitches registered at 101 mph.

“He’s got more than just the fastball,” Braves manager Bobby Cox said. “He’s got other pitches. He’s got a curveball and change. He’s not just one-dimensional.”

Frank Wren and the scouts, you’re all freaking geniuses. Picking this guy up off waivers for absolutely nothing was a work of art.

By JimD

March 27, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Thanks for proving my point, Jersey.

By UGA MAN 2The Dean 212

March 27, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

Jersey City

Just Shutup.

By Austin

March 27, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

Jersey City

What was the Mets record in the final 17 games last year? 5-12? Biggest chokers of all time.

Just wait till you see the tomahawks in September.

By Lew

March 27, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

DonC-I honestly have no idea whether Hampton will keel over after his first pitch or become a ten game winner. I could actually make a case for it going either way. However, I think we’ll be fine if it turns into a worst case scenario, so I’ll remain positive-at least for the time being.

I see absolutely nothing whatsoever to be gained by such radical negativity at this point of the season. Obviously your opinion is somewhat different.

By Teddy Jack Eddy

March 27, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Moylan should have been working the 1st inning.I know Bobby Cox has his own way and it works more than not but still.It seems like when he works relievers in odd ways the record is less than stellar.

By DCbrave

March 27, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

from the few pictures of you I’ve seen Anders

Anders- I’ve never seen any of DOB’s pictures. In my mind, based on his love of pop music and pop culture, I picture him as skinny long-haired “dude,” but then again, based on his busy schedule, and apparent love of not quite healthy foods, etc., he might be a bit over weighted. Anyway,would you care to share a link?

By chrisklob

March 27, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

Jersey City, to come on a Braves blog and flap your gums is one thing but I take exception with your choice of words. There are a lot of kids that read this blog (including mine) and language such as yours is unnecessary to make a point. Run your mouth if you please, but keep it clean.

By brian

March 27, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

some of my favorite covers come from Van Halen - Ice Cream Man, Pretty Woman, and especially covering The Who on their Right Here Right Now tour.

Best cover band was Breakfast Club - anyone fortunate enough to see them in the early to mid 1990s saw a great show.

Of course I also loved the band playing at the wedding at the start of “Old School”

By brian

March 27, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this

Jersey City -

Mets look good in spring training but how do they do when the pressure is on? All we have to do is look to last year’s historic collapse. Choke artists always do well when games don’t count.

you show nothing but a complete lack of class addressing southerners that way. Seems like the only people that can be denigrated stereotypically are southerners. Nice move Jersey.

By Reid in EAV

March 27, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

Here’s another vote for the “Your And Idiot” stamp on “Jersey City’s” forehead. But don’t mind him — B-n-T’ers have an inherent inferiority complex. I guess the quicker you can call someone else a redneck, the less likely someone will figure out that’s actually YOU, right?

By Shamus Thacker

March 27, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

Y’all will probably throw me out for this one, but I love Pat Benetar’s version of Helter Skelter. I also like Heart’s rendition of Zeppelin’s “Rock And Roll”

Ever heard Grand Funk Railroad’s take on Gimme Shelter? I love it.

By bfan54

March 27, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

Thanks for Spring, Dave O’Brien.

This is a profile of a Braves and DOB fan - most should skip this post.

I live eight miles away from the Viera home of the the Nationals. I was born in Milwaukee, and watched the Braves in Milwaukee, as well as and the St. Louis Browns in 1954, when a visited my grandparents - the only “Brownies” fans still living. (Satchell Paige pitched for this team that year. I saw him, but I didn’t know who he was. After some years in Columbus, Georgia, I moved to St. Louis, and as I young man returned to the Grand Avenue Sportsmans Park home of the the then only surviving St Louis team.

I was already a die-hard Braves fan, and even then cherished my Milw Braves and and the handful of old Boston Braves cards. (I had only Eddie Mathews and Ebba St Clair Boston Braves cards.

As early as 1955 I knew - like my own name, and life itself, that Henry (he was’nt hank then)Aaron would break Ruth’s record…

Like you, music is my first love love, and my dad, being a R&R star in St Louis introduced me backstage (in East St. Louis, where I got the autographs of Chuck Berry, Speedo and the Impalas, Frankie Avalon, and others…

I am fortunate enough in life to have seen Paige, Spahn, Musial, Enos Slaughter, Red Shoendients, Billy Martin, Ray Boone (his son Bob, and his grandkids, Aaron and Brett)… obviously I could go and on…

to you, and all these bloggers, the rude, the crude, the obnoxious, the Dylan and Elvis fans, the Moodies Fans, the Webb Pierce and Ferlin Husky fans, U2 and —damn - Arcade Fire (love ‘em all, absolutely!), I send from the bottem of my baseball, rock and roll, and always respectfull heart, GO BRAVES, 2008!!!!!

By Shamus Thacker

March 27, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

I just realized that all the people and tunes I just mentioned are “oldies” now. Why does that scare me?

By matta

March 27, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

The sad thing about Jersey City’s post is that, in assailing the southern stereotype, he perpetuated the New Jersey / New York stereotype.

By Shamus Thacker

March 27, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

I’d rather be DEAD in Georgia, than ALIVE in Jersey.

By Shamus Thacker

March 27, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this

Here Y’all go…

God Save The Queen

God save the queen, The fascist regime, They made you a moron, Potential H-bomb.

God save the queen, She ain’t no human being. There is no future, In England’s dreaming.

Don’t be told what you want, Don’t be told what you need, There’s no future no future, No future for you!

God save the queen, We mean it man We love our queen God saves.

God save the queen, ‘Cos tourists are money Our figure’s head Is not what she seems.

Oh God save history God save your mad parade Oh lord god have mercy All claims are paid

When there’s no future How can there be sin? We’re the flowers in the dustbin, We’re the poison in your human machine, We’re the future; your future.

God save the queen We mean it man We love our queen God saves.

God save the queen We mean it man And there is no future In England’s dreaming.

No future no future No future for you No future no future No future for me.

No future no future No future for you No future no future No future for you No future no future for you.

By DCbrave

March 27, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

Who has a link to a picture of DOB please?

Indeed, thanks a million for a wonderful spring, DOB. You are the best, no less.

By ippississiM

March 27, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

Finally some video proof of the theory of the juiced baseball?

By chrisklob

March 27, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this

Shamus Y’all will probably throw me out for this one, but I love Pat Benetar’s version of Helter Skelter. I also like Heart’s rendition of Zeppelin’s “Rock And Roll”

GET OUT NOW!

(just kidding)

By Brave Fan in Miami

March 27, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this

It still PUZZLES me how a Met fan can come on here and talk garbage.

The mets have one the division once in the last 16 years and couldn’t even hold on for a repeat.

14 in a row seems pretty damn special

The Mets have done nothing productive since ‘86 where they still needed an error to help them win the series.

this is an f’ing BRAVES blog, go read the nypost loser.

see ya in september for another collapse

By StingerSplash

March 27, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

One more cover comment: Van Halen’s “Where Have All the Good Times Gone?” Great version of (yet another) unheralded Ray Davies tune.

By Stephen

March 27, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this

Dave,

Just wanted to thank you for your hard and earnest work this Spring in Florida. It’s been great following along with you since mid-February and I thoroughly appreciate (even envy, perhaps) what you do.

-Stephen

By Shamus Thacker

March 27, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm201/ShamusThacker/alfredeneuman.jpg

Copy and paste this link in your browser. I was told this is DOB.

By Shamus Thacker

March 27, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this

I think we all realize what a blessing DOB is…

By Shamus Thacker

March 27, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this

OK, I screwed it up…

By ObiWanKobe

March 27, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this

Shamus; If you want to go w/ “Helter Skelter”, then you need to go w/ U2’s version off of “Rattle & Hum”

By THE BEAR

March 27, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

Bfan54, I was a teen in Atlanta when Eddie Mathews came up as an 18 year old rookie with the Crackers. He and I were the same age. He was an outfielder as a 17 year old but the Braves wanted him converted him to a third baseman that year. He was horrible at first and no way could I imagine that he would become a Hall of Fame third baseman. The manager of the Crackers, charged with that conversion was none other than the famed Dixie Walker, the old Dodger outfielder.

Also on that team was catcher Ebba St. Clair. One Sunday afternoon Ebba hit a line drive into a moving box car on the rail line that ran along and above the right field fence. He got “credit” in the local press for hitting the only home run that traveled from Atlanta to Birmingham.

By DCbrave

March 27, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm201/ShamusThacker/alfredeneuman.jpg Copy and paste this link in your browser Shamus

Shamus- it says the picture has been removed or deleted. Thanks just the same. I’ll do some searches.

By ippississiM

March 27, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

Shamus, that’s him - the original crusading everyman, AEN. The only pics of DOB I’ve seen have been put up for a short time as a photo connected to a story, or maybe a special promo graphic. You have to be pretty sharp to spot him, but I’d bet that he’s occasionally caught on camera in the pressbox, so if you look closely for guys with laptops when they show the pressbox on TV, whoever you see most often from game to game would have a pretty good chance of being him. It would probably help if DOB would put a Social Distortion bumper sticker on his laptop in such a way that we could spot it, but I guess that might be frowned upon… oh well!

By Hawke

March 27, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

Love the prognosticating by all the “sportswriters”…ready for the season to start and for the Braves to return to the playoffs. You’ve got to love spring training and to see the future Braves that we have in the minors. Can’t wait for the Met series..really, ready for any series

By Gil in Mechanicsville

March 27, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

DCbrave DOB is a very mysterious man who happens to be camera shy…

By chrisklob

March 27, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

Bear, great story!

By Bravesfan79

March 28, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

Im still mad about how last season went down. Last spring i BLASTED the Braves on this blog for choosing Woodcrap and Orr over Escobar making the team. If you ask me, if the Braves HAD made the playoffs a 3 man rotation would of worked just fine. Everyone wanted to blame it on starting pitching last year but i think our rotation was JUST good enough that we should of won the division. But our BENCH killed us…that and giving Redmen start after start when everyone it seemed but Cox could tell he was trash and wasnt going to improve. Ill give Bobby some credit here and say maybe he was pressured into giving him a chance because of managnment. But regardless bt that move and the move to keep woodcrap, ive never seen Bobby Cox as bad with roster decisions as i saw last year. Although i believe John Scherultz gave him bad options thou last year by signing a career 220 hitter in woodward, and NOT bringing back Glavine. That move, and lack of move, really mad me sadly doubt Braves managnment last year, but it seems like we have more flexability this year. “Braves pinch hitters hit only .213 last year, which ranked 13th in the National League, with a league-worst 20 RBIs. Their three homers tied them for worst in the NL.

Chris Woodward managed only a .199 batting average with one home run and eight RBIs in 92 games last year”

I think that about proved my point.

By Hawke

March 28, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

ok…dumb question…who’s going to be the starter for the Nationals in the opening game??? They (Nats) have a fairly good looking opening day roster , sans some ex Braves(but hey, who doesn’t at this point besides the Pirates???) …

By DCbrave

March 28, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this

*DCbrave DOB is a very mysterious man who happens to be camera shy… * - Gil

I know. With his stature and fame (VP of the baseball writers association of America, among others), you would think there should be some stories about his with his pictures in somewhere.

Oh well. He knows for sure.

By chrisklob

March 28, 2008 12:24 AM | Link to this

Hawke, Odalis Perez will be the Nats starter on Sunday.

By Braveheart

March 28, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this

Middle of the night requests for another man’s picture are kinda creepy

bestofcox.com is probaby the best place to find the picture of the man you are desperately seeking

By David O'Brien

March 28, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

DCbrave, chrisklob is correct — Odalis Perez, believe it or not. He was unemployed six weeks ago and signed a minor league contract.

By DCbrave

March 28, 2008 12:52 AM | Link to this

Braveheart I always wanted to see a pic of DOB. Have you never wanted to know DOB looks (if you’ve never seen him)? It was Ander’s post that prompted my question, and that was way before midnight.

DOB It was Hawke that asked the question. But there you are: Is there a link where we can see a pic of yours?

By David O'Brien

March 28, 2008 12:53 AM | Link to this

Chop Chop: outstanding call, Nirvana’s cover of “The Man Who Sold The World.”

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

March 28, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this

Tim Hudson vs. Odaliz Perez, chalk up the first win of the season for the good guys.

By Aram

March 28, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this

Jersey is a fantastic place. Let’s not judge a whole state because some kid decided to pick a fight for attention. When I lived there, I used to love going out to Shea to watch Chipper Jones break the will of multiple Mets teams and continually embarass the entire franchise.

I’ve been studying up on voodoo spells in an effort to do my part in keeping Mike Hampton healthy. So far so good. I think I can keep him healthy all year if I can get 13 chickens into the clubhouse showers. It’s a shame the Braves power off the bench can’t be Pedro Cerrano, because then we’d have Jobu in Hampton’s corner as well.

By DCbrave

March 28, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this

Braveheart

I read your remarks again (12:38). Frankly, I was offended - very much. I had a lot of fun reading your posts before and a lot of respect on you. But tonight, after some domant hours, you came back to bark without even knowing the context. Look through all my posts here on this blog within the past couple of months before you judge me. I don’t want to say shame on you but you do sound like a mad dog.

By Yunel Lillibridge

March 28, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this

Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)… The answer to your question posted at 4:58 PM is that the Unit and Smoltz are both devout Christians. Less than 72 hours until the real Opening Day (in DC) - Let’s go boys!

By Lew

March 28, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this

How about The Who’s cover of Summertime Blues off of Live At Leeds?

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

March 28, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this

Here is the one picture we have of our legendary leader Dave O’Brien. If this link doesn’t work, you can just paste it into your browser.

http://www.bestofcox.com/2007/html/combined/blog/index.html

By uga-brave

March 28, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this

DOB,

glad you are back, trying to get into mid-season form. francoeur did nothing in spring training to prove he is now a power hitter.

like i said i think he is a jermaine dye clone, a tall guy with flawed mechanics. he will always be GOOD, but his balance will always be a problem.

he can put on all the weight he wants, but he still is a lunger.

cant hit off the front foot if you always drop your hands.

no matter how bad hoss at times get fooled his hands are always quiet.

By Wayne in Utah

March 28, 2008 1:25 AM | Link to this

Tim Hudson vs Odalis Perez….. somehow, it just don’t seem fair!

Years from now, they are going to say, “Yes, it is a nice park, and Odalis Perez started our first game there.” Not fair at all.

Lew Thanks for keeping it positive!

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

March 28, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this

That’s a good guess about the connection between Smoltz and Randy Johnson. However, it’s incorrect.

I”ll just spill the beans and you can make of it what you will.

John Smoltz and Randy Johnson are both double jointed.

Not the answer you were expecting was it?

But, it is part of the reason why they have both had so many shoulder and elbow problems over the years.

It’s also the reason why I said that John Smoltz really is a freak of nature and why he has been able to overcome so many injuries.

look it up , it’s true. By the way, I’m double jointed myself.

By mark

March 28, 2008 1:31 AM | Link to this

Well spring training is pretty much done..it was a iffy spring..Im not sure a lot of questions have been answered other than maybethat Hampton is apparently healthy and will help..Braves hittersreally need to step it up a notch, I dont know spring training is hard to look at…I hope the guys are ready..We would be in trouble if we have Smoltz health issues.

By uga-brave

March 28, 2008 1:58 AM | Link to this

DOB,

coach just posted a link with a picture of your mug.

seen you before, but that picture made you look like me.

a old, brooks brothers wearing frat guy from georgia.

since i dont ride a cycle, nor do i have any JOHNNY CASH tatoos, i think the COACH might have the wrong impression.

your everday crusader persona did you no favors with that head shot.

either way my man, we may agree to disagree, but (not kissing up) i think you are very good at what you do.

the music and movies thing are a bonus.

just dont tell dwight that, he still thinks he is getting laid off.

By BA

March 28, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this

You never know. Odalis could be converted to lefty specialist, pitch ‘till he’s fifty, and become the next Jesse Orosco!

By Jeff Francoeur

March 28, 2008 2:15 AM | Link to this

Geez, I’ve been drinking that Brady Quinn energy drink, and pounding protein bars, and pumping IRON all winter! Everytime “Micheal Vick” was said on ESPN, I did a bench press! If I didn’t stay up at night reading the DOB blogs, I could hit more homers in the spring! So sue me, I like Bob Dylan, too. Anyway, I almost hit .300 last year AND drove in a hundred runs! Cut me some slack!

By uga-brave

March 28, 2008 2:30 AM | Link to this

BA,

except for the fact that odalis is a boarderline idiot.

marquis will always lead that group, but odalis was not far behind.

there are certain guys, great arms or not, that will never quite get it.

leo, might not have been able to relate to certain young pitchers, but i dont think he ever got that duo wrong.

By uga-brave

March 28, 2008 2:40 AM | Link to this

yo jeff,

you had close to 700 plate appearances 19 dingers, not so great.

if diaz had the same, he would of done the same thing.

you got lucky, you are a home grown kid. they sell your jerseys and make money.

time for you to step up and become a star. if you played somewhere else you might get platooned. no more excuses.

By Andruw's dad

March 28, 2008 2:46 AM | Link to this

Due to the quality of this blog, I am willing to go in with Mr. O’Brien and negotiate a long term deal with the AJC. We’ll just bypass his agent, go in on a Sunday, trust me. It worked before.

By BA

March 28, 2008 2:54 AM | Link to this

UGA Brave, what did Perez do? Fill me in, I’m curious. I never heard any dirt on that guy. I remember Marquis couldn’t keep his mouth shut. They(The Braves) really don’t like that sort of thing. They even traded the great David Justice for being too chatty.

By Jeff Francoeur

March 28, 2008 3:04 AM | Link to this

Look buddy, you’re killing me. I’m the best defensive right fielder in BASEBALL. Got all those appearances because I got the GUTS to play every day. Even when I got the runs. Or when I pulled a muscle helping my in-laws move. Or…WHATEVER! Give me some love!

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

March 28, 2008 3:09 AM | Link to this

I’ll leave you guys with one more post as to why this team is so improved.

In 2007, Wickman, Yates and Villarreal alone were responsible for 10 losses in the bullpen.

Carlyle, Davies, Cormier and Redman contributed to 21 wins and 33 losses during thier 54 starts.

Somehow, I think that with the current bullpen we can discount 4 to 6 losses, bare minimum.

And with Glavine, Jurrjens, Hampton and Bennett anchoring the back of the starting rotation, adding 10 to 12 wins is reasonable.

by my rough calculation, the 84-78 2007 squad has been improved upon by 14 to 18 wins.

These numbers, barring massive injury should result in a record of anywhere between 98 wins 64 losses and 102 wins 60 losses.

Two other numbers I took into consideration. The current 12 or 13 pitchers projected to make up the rotation and bullpen posted an aggregate ERA of 3.05 so far in 2008.

The offense scored 175 runs in 31 games so far this spring. Averaging 5.64 per game and considering that the starters didnt play half the time, it’s an indicator that the offense is going to score, alot.

Most will say that spring training stats don’t mean anything and I agree when it comes to wins and losses, but when it comes to ERA and runs scored, they tell everything that I need to know.

This 2008 Braves squad is going to KICK ARSE and I say that with no hesitation whatsoever.

the only thing standing between the Braves and the division title is the injury bug. If they stay reasonably healthy , it’s over. Playoffs Baby !

By uga-brave

March 28, 2008 3:16 AM | Link to this

BA,

Odalis, was what he was. a non-coachable pitcher. the guy always had great stuff. leo was the same way.

his way, down and outside or the highway.

some guys fit or they dont.

odalis really never excelled in L.A.

like leo or not, but i always heard he had trouble relating to some pitchers.

john thompson hated him, leo had his way about doing things, and he always thought everyone should pitch like glav, or mad-dawg.

as far as odalis goes, he was probably like marcus giles, you never hear bobby say a bad word about anybody.

but if he loves you, you usually hang around.

By BA

March 28, 2008 3:19 AM | Link to this

Coach, injuries are gonna happen. But somebody will step up and excede that nobody sees coming... I'm on board. The Braves will win 102 games this year. It's going to take 100 to win the division.

By Serbok

March 28, 2008 3:23 AM | Link to this

Time to Play Ball!!!! I’m back to the blog!!!!!!!! been readin every now and then Still have the Ego’s?* N8? lol All is good in Bravo land, it appears~ Gonna be a good year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By uga-brave

March 28, 2008 3:24 AM | Link to this

yo jeff,

love you man, but jose guillens numbers were just as good, if not better.

time to take the training wheels off.

ever heard of cory hart, better numbers and he can steal bases.

no i did not take my sugnlasses off.

By uga-brave

March 28, 2008 3:29 AM | Link to this

jeff,

you might be the sraw that stirs the drink.

or you might become adam kearns, it is up to you.

By uga-brave

March 28, 2008 3:36 AM | Link to this

serbok,

the late night vampire is back.

its gotta be opening day soon.

see you on the weekend, gotta catch 5 hours. see you later.

By Cherokee

March 28, 2008 4:18 AM | Link to this

These numbers, barring massive injury should result in a record of anywhere between 98 wins 64 losses and 102 wins 60 losses.Coach

LOL. man whatever you are smoking, I want some right now,that’s just plain nuts. maybe 88-90 wins

By Serbok

March 28, 2008 4:35 AM | Link to this

UGA~ how ya been bro? Wayne~in utah? Time for some BB!!!!!!!

By Serbok

March 28, 2008 4:42 AM | Link to this

funniest thing? I read on the blog~during “off season?* Someone used backstreet boys In the same sentence as Beatles?

Imagination run amok? lol

By CharlieAlphaBravo

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

Ummm… Just thought of a pretty good cover…. Eric Clapton doing Cocaine. That one’s alright.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

March 28, 2008 6:58 AM | Link to this

Cherokee , O ye of little faith.

By Braveheart

March 28, 2008 7:59 AM | Link to this

DCBrave, sorry, man but the best place to find the picture you are looking for is indeed bestofcox.com:

http://www.bestofcox.com/2007/html/combined/blog/index.html

And, yeah, I’ve seen him in person at Ella Guru, in that picture, and on television. The man never looks the same in any place. DOB’s a chameleon

And I’m sorry if I acted like a jerk to you. I was just trying to be funny.

Wayne, you’d better be feverishly working on your Opening Day poetry.

Welcome back to the Vampire Serbok.

By flange1

March 28, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, Are you going to be in ATlanta on Sunday night for the Braves first game?

By cherokee

March 28, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this

Cherokee , O ye of little faith.Coach

It takes a lot of faith just to think they might win 90

By richbrave

March 28, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this

CHRISKLOB:

Is JERSEY CITY the same as METROPOLITAN MAN1? Might be time to infiltrate his blog again and see.

By David O'Brien

March 28, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

A few have requested, so I’ll pick my predicted order of finish for the NL East, as well as other division winners, pennant winners, and World Series winner. And Cy Young winners and MVPs, too.

But can’t do it until I first go retrieve my bike in the northern ‘burbs from the good person’s home who trailored it back to Atlanta. Big Don at Ella Guru will be driving me up there here in just a minute.

By David O'Brien

March 28, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

In the interim, I suggest that you folks post your own thoughts on most or all of those races.

Oh, and uga-brave, others: That nice, clean-cut photo was taken the week I started at the AJC in 2002. Wish I still looked that young.

By OldBravesBag

March 28, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

DOB

Can you give us some insight about Kelly Johnson and how he fits into the Braves’ future? I’m a big fan of his, and am wondering about his work ethic and his potential. I feel like he could be an All-Star, but that he might fly under the radar because of his demeanor. And I don’t feel that being unassuming is a bad thing, I happen to admire that.

By DCbrave

March 28, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

Braveheart- It is alright, and it was me that was too sensitive. I guess at that time to seek another man’s pic is kind of suspicious - and I should’ve detected your being funny. Anyway, thanks. Now at least I know how the man who writes one of the most popular blogs looks. Don’t you think he looks a bit like A-Rod in that mug pic?

By Thrillhouse44

March 28, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

I can’t believe I missed the blog where voices were assigned.

I’ll accept your assignment, Notorious:

NL East: Braves, Mets, Phillies, Nats, Marlins NL Central: Cubs NL West: Diamondbacks NL Wildcard: Rockies NL Pennant: Braves

AL East: BoSox AL Central: Indians AL West: Marlins AL Wildcard: Angels

World Series: The Braves over the Indians! (I can’t pick against my team. I just can’t do it. And I truly believe they have a legitimate shot.)

NL MVP: Tex - inspired by free agency, he’ll have the type of year I imagined AJ was going to have last year. NL Cy Young: Brandon Webb

AL MVP: A-Rod - hate him or love him, he’s the best in months not called “October” AL Cy Young: Sabathia

Best of Cox: Notorious DOB. No brainer here.

By Gator73082

March 28, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

DOB - I was reading the latest baseall preview issue of SI last night about the elite 2005 draft class. It was quite a class there! I saw that the Braves took a pass on Clay Buchholz to pick some high school player. My heart and jaws dropped and I hit myself in the head!! Who was this high school player that we picked ahead of Clay Buchholz? What were they thinking? I wonder what they were thinking when Clay pitched that no-no last season. Sounds like a botched pick to me! We sure could use someone like Clay in our rotation at this point!

By Efrim

March 28, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

Good idea with the predictions….

National League

NL East: Mets

NL West: Dodgers

NL Central: Cubs

NL Wild Card: Braves

American League

AL East: Red Sox

AL West: Mariners

AL Central: Indians

AL Wild Card: Yankees

Playoffs

NL

Mets defeat Dodgers 3-1

Cubs defeat Braves 3-2

AL

Red Sox defeat Mariners 3-0

Yankees defeat Indians 3-2

NLCS

Mets defeat Cubs 4-2

ALCS

Red Sox defeat Yankees 4-2

World Series

Red Sox defeat Mets 4-3

Red Sox have an embarassment of riches…..

It upsets me, because I hate them more than I hate any team in baseball. Or at least I hate their fans more than any other fans in baseball.

Mets simply have too much starting pitching. There offense is overrated, but Wright, Reyes and Beltran are enough to get by.

I like the way the Cubs are structured, and I think they will eventually trade for Brian Roberts- making them a very complete team. That’s why I picked them over the Braves in the first round.

Dodgers have the most talented team out West.

I don’t understand how anyone could pick the Angels over the Mariners in the AL West.

Tigers have Verlander, and not much else on the pitching side of things. I don’t care how prolific the offense is, their pitching is terrible. Indians are the better team.

Yankees are underrated this year. If that is even possible.

By DAP

March 28, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

ok, here are my division predictions…ill do the rest later…

NL East: Braves (duh)

NL Cantral: Cubs (itll be a chicago milwakee dog fight)

NL West: Dbacks

NL Wild Card: Phillies (fending off the dodgers)

AL East: Red Sox

AL Central: Tigers

AL West: Mariners

AL Wild Card: Indians

a new york-free post season!

By eware

March 28, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

Yay predictions!!

NL East: Braves, of course NL Central: Cubbies NL West: Dodgers

AL East: Red Sox (though I hate saying so) AL Central: Detroit AL West: Mariners

World Series: Braves over Detroit (though that’s a little hard to picture right now)

NL MVP: Tex, maybe Prince Fielder AL MVP: Ortiz (it’ll create a stir)

NL Cy Young: Peavy AL Cy Young: Kazmir

By Thrillhouse44

March 28, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

I guess it’s impossible for the Marlins to finish last in the NL East, but first in the AL West. So, I meant the Mariners will win the AL West.

By ckdawg

March 28, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

I hear Smoltz is so crippled he’s practically having to use a walker to make it to the mound. I hear his fastball wouldn’t crack a plate of fine china. (Are you reading this John?) I hear Smoltzie’s so old he keeps forgetting where he put his glove before he goes on the mound so they’ve tied a rope to it and one of the bat boys throws it around his neck so he won’t lose it between innings. And is the rumor about the prune regimen really true? (John, if you’re reading this feel free to thank me during your Cy Young award acceptance speech.)

By DannyDean

March 28, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

AL East: Sox, Central: Indians, West: Mariners, WC: Yanks

NL East: Mets, Central: Cubs, West: D-Backs, WC: Braves

AL MVP: Manny NL MVP: Aramis Ramirez

AL CY: Bedard NL CY: Hudson

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

March 28, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

Here is my prediction for each division.

NL East: 1. Braves (tie) 2. Mets (tie) 3. Phillies 4. Nats 5. Marlins

NL Central: 1. Cubs 2. Brewers 3. Reds 4. Pirates 5. Astros 6. Cardinals

NL West: 1. Dodgers 2. Padres 3. DBacks 4. Rockies 5. Giants

AL East: 1. Red Sox 2. Yankees 3. Blue Jays 4. Rays 5. Orioles

AL Central: 1. Tigers 2. Indians 3. White Sox 4. Twins 5. Royals

AL West: 1. Angels 2. Mariners 3. Rangers 4. A’s

NL Wild Card: Braves/Mets

AL Wild Card: Yankees

NL MVP: Mark Texieria

AL MVP: Alex Rodriguez

NL Cy Young: Carlos Zambrano

AL Cy Young: Dontrelle Willis

NL Surprise Team: Washington Nationals

AL Surprise Team: Tampa Bay Rays

By Shaun

March 28, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

AL East—Yankees: Close last year and their pitching should be better.

AL Central—Indians: Loaded with good player at or near their peak years.

AL West—Angels: Division winner by default.

AL Wild Card—Red Sox: They fall back a little because the pitching, Lowell and Pedroia won’t be as good.

NL East—Braves: Not a weak spot in the lineup. Can Hudson repeat and Smoltz stay healthy?

NL Central—Cubs: Offense should be a little better, pitching much deeper than Milwaukee’s.

NL West—Dodgers: Great pitching, deep farm system. Only question is offense. Let the kids play!

NL Wild Card—Mets: Can’t beat the star power, with Wright, Reyes, Beltran, Santana and Wagner. Health and age keeps them from winning the NL East.

World Series: Braves over Indians. Indians take revenge on the Red Sox and are too much for the Yankees. Braves take care of the Dodgers and beat their arch rival Mets in the NLCS. Braves aren’t great at any one aspect of the game but could be pretty good at everything.

AL MVP: Alex Rodriguez, Yankees: Hall-of-Fame hitter in a great lineup equals another MVP.

NL MVP: Mark Teixeira, Braves: Great power hitter and defensive firstbaseman on a contender. Will rack up the RBI that voters love.

AL Cy Young: Justin Verlander, Tigers: Could be the first of many for the Motown fire-baller.

NL Cy Young: Johan Santana, Mets: Baseball’s best pitcher on a contender playing half his games in a pitcher’s park.

AL Rookie of the Year: Evan Longoria, Rays: Will start in the minors, but he’s too good to not win.

NL Rookie of the Year: Geovany Soto, Cubs: Will immediately take his place among game’s great young catchers and the only one whose last name doesn’t begin with M—Mauer, McCann, Martin, Martinez.

By Lew

March 28, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

Yes-DOB is about 28, 6’3” and goes about 225. And Coach is double jointed. I guess that means he can……

I’d better leave before I get permanently banned. Good Morning.

By chrisklob

March 28, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this

richbrave, I’m not sure if JERSEY CITY and METRO MAN. Even if it’s not, I think it’s time to go back over there and throw some trash on their blog. Let’s go!

By Anders

March 28, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

Efrim

Always the voice of reason. Do you really think the NL WC can come from the east with the Mets, Phils and Braves all playing each other so much? I guess they could all make hay on the Nats and Marlins but that would mean those two teams win about 60 games each. No?

By Shaun

March 28, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

I just don’t know what’s so great about the Mariners. I suppose it helps that they’re in a weak division made even weaker now that the favorite, the Angels, has injury problems now with their pitching staff.

But they were essentially a .500 team last season. They were about league average in both runs scored and allowed and the only big move they made was the trade for Bedard.

By Efrim

March 28, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

Shaun

Angels???? Escobar isn’t going to pitch this year. Lackey could very well end up haveing Tommy John and there best set up man is showing signs of slowing down.

The Mariners aren’t world beaters, but I think they will edge the Angels based on the lack of healthy pitchers that the Halos have.

By Tomahawkin

March 28, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

Shaun U are actually taking the Halos over the M’s? The Angels rotation has the injury bug running through it, and the Mariners with Bedard and Prince Felix, will probably be the best 1-2 in that mediocre division…

By Big Easy

March 28, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

Predictions: NL EAST: Braves NL CENTRAL: Cubs NL WEST: Dbacks NL WILDCARD: Rockies

AL EAST: Red Sox AL CENTRAL: Tigers AL WEST: Mariners AL WILDCARD: Indians

NLDS: Braves over Rockies 3-1 NLDS: Cubs over Dbacks 3-2

ALDS: Tigers over Mariners 3-1 ALDS: Red Sox over Indians 3-0

NLCS: Braves over Cubs 4-2 ALCS: Tigers over Red Sox 4-3

WS: Braves over Tigers 4-3

NL MVP: Mark Teixiera NL CY YOUNG: Johan Santana

AL MVP: Manny Ramirez AL CY YOUNG: Justin Verlander

FYI, I think Santana will be good, just not good enough to get the Mets to October (hey, happened to Hudson last year…he should have been a Cy Young contender).

~E~

By Ace

March 28, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

Always reading, rarely posting, here’s a few picks:

NL East - Braves Central - Reds (I like the Reds and feel like the Cubs will find a way to screw up) West - Diamondbacks Wildcard - Dodgers

In the hunt: Phillies, Padres, Cubs, Rockies

Cy Young - Santana MVP - Tex

AL East - Sox Central - Tigers West - Mariners Wild - Indians

Cy Young - Sabbathia MVP - Mig. Cabrera

In the hunt: Angels, Yankees, Blue Jays

By Efrim

March 28, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

Anders

I really think the Nats and Marlins are going to be awful this year. Like, very bad. The West is the best division in the NL, but I can’t see the D-Backs being as lucky as they were last year. It was a dumb move to trade away Valverde. Lyon is vastly overrated and even if they put the better pitcher, Pena, in the closer’s role, they will get hurt for giving Lyon crucial high leverage 7th and 8th inning spots.

Rockies will come back down to Earth and the Padres will finally get hurt for not having a powerful offense. The WC will come out of the East this year.

By Shaun

March 28, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

Anders, not to speak for Efrim but look at last season. The Wild Card came from the NL West and the NL West had four teams over .500. And the AL East had three teams over .500 and the Yankees won the Wild Card.

By rlpmetro

March 28, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

NL East: NY Mets; NL Central: Milwaukee Brewers; NL West: San Diego Padres; NL Wild Card: Atlanta Braves

AL East: Boston Red Sox; AL Central: Cleveland Indians; AL West Seattle Mariners; AL Wild Card: Detroit Tigers

NL Playoffs: Braves over Padres in 6; Mets over Brewers in 5; Braves over Mets in 7

AL Playoffs: Tigers over Red Sox in 6; Indians over Mariners in 5; Indians over Tigers in 6

World Series: Indians over Braves in 6

NL MVP: Jose Reyes; NL Cy Young: Johan Santana

AL MVP: Manny Ramirez; AL Cy Young: CC Sabathia

By Josh H

March 28, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

My predicitons:

NL East: Braves. I’m a homer, so what. But I honestly believe we have the talent and the depth for a 162 game long haul. Mets are 2, Phillies 3, Nationals 4, Marlins 5

NL Central: Cubs. I think with Capuano going down that the Brewers may not have the pitching to get the job done. Cubs, Brewers, Reds, Pirates, Astros, Cardinals (Pujols elbow explodes soon..)

NL West: Hard to call this division. I don’t think the Dodgers will make it, as trotting Juan Pierre out there to lead off every day only ensure Furcal leads off with one out. I’ll say the Diamondbacks. Disgusting pitching and a lineup that is getting better. D’Backs, Padres, Rockies, Dodgers, Giants

AL East: I still think the Red Soz will take the Yankees. The pitching just isn’t there yet for the Yankees. Look out for the Blue Jays if they’re actually healthy. Tampa Bay will improve, and maybe take the Orioles, but still won’t surpass the big three. Red Sox, Yankees, Blue Jays, Rays, Orioles

AL Central: I’m going to call for the Tigers, due to their disgusting lineup, starting pitching, and the fact that C.C. Sabathia pitched 270 innings last year and is probably due for a downturn. Tigers, Indians, Twins, White Sox, Royals (isn’t there another team here somewhere…)

AL West: All between the Mariners and the Angels. Mariners have the better pitching now, and Angels probably have the better lineup. Toss up. Angels, Mariners, Rangers, Athletics.

By Drew

March 28, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB, where is Skip? Haven’t heard him this spring.

By DAP

March 28, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

ok,

braves over cubs in the NLDS

dbacks over phillies in the NLDS

braves over dbacks in 7 in the NLCS

red sox over tigers in the ALDS

Indians over marniners in the ALDS

Indians over red sox in 7

WS: Braves beat tribe in 6 (just like old times)

CY Young AL: C.C. Sabathia CY Young NL: Johan Santana

NL MVP: Mark Teixeira (not a homer pick. after what he did in the second half, on this team, he is gonna be huge) AL MVP: Arod (will anyone else ever win while hes around?)

By AGTfan

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

I see a great season ahead. The AL East is going to be a dogfight between NYY and BRS to see who can buy the division. I think the Sox have spent more wisely. AL East: Red Sox The AL Central is just as tough. I see a nail-biter between the Indians and Tigers. Flip-a-coin methods says AL Central: Indians AL West: Mariners AL Wild Card: Tigers

The NL East is going to depend on who’s old guys stay healthy. The Mets could finish anywhere from 1st to last because of lack of depth. The Braves are better constructed to withstand 1 or 2 injuries. I see both teams making it to the Play-offs. NL East: Braves NL Wildcard: Mets NL Central: Cubs (Won the coin toss against the Brewers.) NL West: Rockies (but it’s wide open. Any team could win it.)

I won’t get into post-season or post-season awards except to say NL Cy Young: Tom Glavine. I know, it’s wishful thinking, but wouldn’t it be delicious.

By Efrim

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

Tomahawkin

That’s King Felix. The Prince term will be used for Prince Julio…..he is debuting in the GCL this year.

By Anders

March 28, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

Shaun

I’m not saying it’s impossible and I guess your West coast point makes sense. The Yanks and Sox are the exception to the rule because they play in a division with both the Rays and Orioles who would struggle in the NCAA and Toronto has been ok but they’re weren’t as good any of the 3 in the NL east are this year. I think for an NL East team to take the WC one of the other two will have to drop back to just over .500 at least.

By Shaun

March 28, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

Tomahawkin and Efrim, I just think the Angels have much more of a margin for error than the M’s. Yes, Seattle can win the division. But they need Bedard to come close to repeating, King Felix to break out, Sexson and Wilkerson to bounce back, Vidro and Beltre to repeat. But they look more like a team that will probably be around .500 or a little better. They are relying on a lot of somewhat older players that have really struggled recently.

The Angels, if they just get one of their pitchers back within a couple of months, should win in the mid-to-high 80s…and they may win that many anyway with Weaver and some of their young pitchers stepping up.

By 18 Wheels of Love

March 28, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

WORLD SERIES Arizona over Cleveland

AL Red Sox/Cleveland/Mariners/Tigers - WC NL Braves/Cubs/Arizona/Mets - WC

AL MVP Grady Sizemore AL CY Vlad Guerrero AL ROY Ellsbury

NL MVP Tex NY CY Brandon Webb NY ROY Jair Jurrgens

By Steve from OH

March 28, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Have the braves released their final 25 man roster yet? If not, when?

By Efrim

March 28, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Shaun

I agree with what you said to some degree, but I really think that they innings that bullpen has pitched, mainly Shields, will hurt them this year.

Their offensive addition of Hunter won’t make them that much better either.

I see what you are saying though. Hernandez and Bedard must be very good this year. Very good as in, 16 or 17 wins and over 200 K’s each.

By Steve from OH

March 28, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

Everyone should check out Squawking Baseball’s article on Evan Longoria. It’s a pretty good analysis into why teams often don’t call up prospects right away.

By Braveheart

March 28, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Flange, yeah, I’ll be in Atlanta this weekend.

Anders, give it a rest already with the personal attacks on DOB. You take things too personally with him.

This is how the Braves could win 95 to 100 games:

Smoltz, 32 starts, 200 innings, 3.33 ERA

Hudson, 34 starts, 225 innings, 3.33 ERA

Glavine, 30 starts, 170 innings, 4.50 ERA

Hampton, 20 starts, 110 innings, 4.75 ERA

Jurrjens, 26 starts, 145 innings, 4.65 ERA

James, 20 starts, 110 innings, 4.15 ERA

Rotation, 162 starts, 960 innings, 4.00 ERA

Bullpen, 480 innings, 4.00 ERA

Unearned runs: 65

Runs given up: 710

Offense: 850 to 900 runs

That will cause the 150 to 200 run differential needed to win 95 to 100 games

By chrisklob

March 28, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Anders/Dwight,

Don’t discount the Rays. I won’t say that they’re going to win the East or even the wild card, but (providing that Kazmir is healthy) their pitching is getting better and they have a pretty decent lineup. I think they’re going to play the role of spoiler this year.

By Bubdylan

March 28, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

NL East Champ Braves go 158 - 4 (Curse you Oliver Perez!). Defeat EVERYONE in the World Series to win Baseball Championship of the COSMOS. MVP - Corky Miller. Cy Young: Oliver Perez (4-21 record). YAY!

By KC

March 28, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

AGTfan:

All of your post-season picks are very reasonable, BUT… Tom Glavine winning the CY is more than “wishful thinking”. That’s drug haze thinking (no offense).

Glavine is going to be solid, but he ain’t Smoltz, Hudson, Santana, Webb, or Peavy. He’s nowhere near those guys anymore.

By Ace

March 28, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

18 Wheels — Vlad winning the Cy really would be quite a shock…

By ET90210

March 28, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

Elite 8 tourney bracket is up now for offseason fleeces. Love this thing.

http://mlbfleecefactor.com/2008/03/28/the-elite-8-of-offseason-fleeces-race-for-the-golden-fleece/

By BossLady

March 28, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

Thanks, DOB

Your spring training daily reporting of information, progress and trades, I feel I am trained and ready to go this season.

Well Done Sir…

By Carroll Rogers

March 28, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

New blog should be up before long…

By Thrillhouse44

March 28, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

KC, “That’s drug haze thinking (no offense).” Are you suggesting AGTFan is on a PED - Party Enhancing Drug?

By Anders

March 28, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

Chrisklob

I was talking about years past with the Rays, not this year.

Braveheart

Will do. All I ask is that DOB stop painting me as this maniac from NY. Sorry, but I feel I’ve made some realistic points on here and have been right more than once. For some reason the only time I hear from DOB is when it’s a slam dunk smack down or I post under a ficticous name for effect.Both times I did that and he didn’t know it was me I got kudos from him, peculiar -no? I hadn’t said a word about Glavine for weeks and out of nowhere DOB referred to me derogatorily regarding Glavine in a post a couple of days ago. I can take it but I expect to be able to dish it back out.I’ll take the high road for now, hopefully others will follow. This is a Braves blog not the Braves fan club. Not sure why many on here have a problem hearing from the Mets side of things?

Now all the “Aw, poor Anders” posts will follow. It’s become a predictable cycle.

By TJ

March 28, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, pretty good numbers on how to reach 95-100 wins. Taken individually, it all seams reasonable… but as a whole, pretty tough to do.

One thing in our favor is, we’re due some luck. Braves have finished 5 games below their “pythagorean” record in each of the last 2 years. I don’t know that there’s any science to it, but we’re due some good bounces for a change.

By Shamus Thacker

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

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm201/ShamusThacker/alfredeneuman.jpg

I can’t see where DOB has aged that much….

By Ramblin Wrecker

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

NL East: Braves (of course) Central: Reds West: Rockies Wild Card: D-Backs

NL Races: I just don’t feel the Mets have the young legs to make it happen. I think the Phillies have Cole Hamels, Brett Myers and nothing else in their rotation, and have head case Lidge as the closer who has a knee problem too boot. The Cubs won the central last year, but how I don’t know. They have Zambrano and nothing after him. The Reds have what looks like a nice rotation with Harang, Arroyo, Belisle, Volquez and Cueto, plus they have a closer, and will score runs. The West looks like another battle with a good young Rockies club and a D-Backs club that added Haren and may not need much hitting if Randy Johnson rebounds. LA just looks confused. They have some of the best young major league ready position players but for some reason insist on wasting at-bats on guys like Pierre and Garciaparra instead of letting guys like Kemp, Ethier and LaRoche play every day.

AL East: Red Sox Central: Tigers West: Angels Wild Card: Indians

AL Races: The Red Sox seem to be a well balanced team, good rotation with experienced and young arms, good bullpen, good offense. The Yankees have an offense, but unless their young trio of pitchers perform, they will be hard pressed to keep up with Boston, Detroit, Cleveland for a playoff spot. The Tigers appear to plan on hitting their way to October and I think they’ll do it with that lineup of murderers. Cleveland has a nice mix. The Angels have no competition in the West.

NL Cy Young: John Smoltz (he’s pitched well enough the past two seasons, but now has the bullpen to preserve his arm and his wins and the back end of the rotation to save the bullpen) AL Cy Young: Justin Verlander

NL MVP: Chipper Jones (if he plays 150+ with Tex behind him, no one will have a better OPS than Hoss) AL MVP: Miguel Cabrera

By Anders

March 28, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this

Bubdylan

NL East Champ Braves go 158 - 4 (Curse you Oliver Perez!).

Oliver Perez (4-21 record). YAY!

Now that’s funny!!! Good stuff.

By Random

March 28, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

NL Comeback Player of the Year: Mike Hampton of the Atlanta Braves!!!

NL MVP: Chipper Jones of the Atlanta Braves!!!

NL Cy Young: Johan Santana of the NastY Mets

Braves, Dodgers, Brewers, Mets(w) Red Sox, Angels, Tigers, Indians(w) . Braves, Dodgers Red Sox, Tigers .. Braves, Tigers … Braves!!! ….

By Ramblin Wrecker

March 28, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

Anders,

This is a “Braves blog” and that’s the point. Find a Mets blog. That’s the wonderful thing about the internet, you don’t have to be in New York to blog with likeminded Mets fans. So why are you even on the “Atlanta” Journal-Constitution website talking about the Braves, other than to make jabs at Glavine or whatever? You’re a Mets fan, we get that. While me may joke to the contrary, there really is nothing wrong with you being a fan of the Mets. But don’t come on here, find a Mets blog to chat on, that’s all. I’d expect Mets fan to rip me if I bugged them on a NY website.

By Thrillhouse44

March 28, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

Aw, poor Anders.

Dude, you have been right more than once. And you have at times presented a good point of view from the Mets’ side. However, there have been times when you’ve made personal attacks and irrational arguments. We’re all guilty of it, but not many of us play the woe-is-me card. Before you say you don’t, lines like “Not sure why many on here have a problem hearing from the Mets side of things?” appear with regularity.

By Efrim

March 28, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

Anders

I feel ya man.

By Hammy the Brave

March 28, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Any updates on trade rumors/bench upgrades for the Bravos? I am hopeful we can trade Ring to the Yankettes for Morgan Ensberg, or pick up Wes Helms( hope Phillies have to release him). IMO the bench will be C. Miller- catcher, Prado- middle infield, and hopefully Blanco-outfield(more well-rounded than Anderson). I also hope Bobby will give Borchard a real chance to be another bat off the bench and backup OF/1B. That way the bench will have the defense bobby desires, and the power/versatility I desire for our bench.

By the way, DOB, my wife and I are going to hot’lanta this weekend for the 2 games against the Indians. I was hoping to meet you and talk about the Bravos a little, at the Sat. game. Is there a good way/time to meet you there?

Hammy the Brave

By KC

March 28, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

After seeing everyone this spring, here are my predictions (guesses):

ROTATION:

Smoltz: 16-7, 3.38 ERA

Hudson: 18-8, 3.26

Glavine: 14-8, 4.06

Hampton: (29 starts): 12-6, 3.86

Jurrjens: 12-9, 4.32

BULLPEN:

Soriano: 2.16 ERA, 34 saves

Moylan: 3.01 ERA

Acosta: 2.75 ERA

Resop: 3.35 ERA

Ohman: 4.05 ERA (left-handed hitters will hit below .200)

Boyer: 3.80 ERA

Bennett: 3.65 ERA

Gonzalez (when he returns): 3.40 ERA

I’m guessing Ring will be traded in early April, and someone else (possibly Ohman or Boyer) will be traded in June when Mike Gonzalez is ready.

Please feel free to criticize my predictions, but ONLY if you’re prepared to make predictions of your own. I’m also open to wagers. =)

By Shamus Thacker

March 28, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

OK, I reckon I’m just a dumbazz…

By Efrim

March 28, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Here are some Braves predictions from ESPN guys(if you even care):

Stark: 93-69 1st in NL East

Kurkjian: 90-72 3rd in NL East

Olney: 91-71 1st in NL East

Law: 85-77 2nd in NL East

Phillips: 90-72 2nd in NL East

I like Phillips prediction the best. Kurkjian is out of his mind. Braves win 90 games, they are not finishing just 3rd. Olney has been supporting the Braves all off season. Stark as well. All the stat heads will predict failure for the Braves this year. So it makes sense that Law would predict a 85-77 year for them. Neyer will be right around there as well.

84-78 last year with EVERYTHING that went wrong.

I would be really dissapointed if this team didn’t win between 87-89 games….at least.

By Shamus Thacker

March 28, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm201/ShamusThacker/alfredeneuman.jpg

By Braveheart

March 28, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, pretty good numbers on how to reach 95-100 wins. Taken individually, it all seams reasonable… but as a whole, pretty tough to do.

Yeah, TJ, but a fan can hope. Until that first pitch is thrown, everything seems possible

By KC

March 28, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

Thrillhouse: could be. =)

By Shamus Thacker

March 28, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

I spend my days/nights programming IBM AS400 business systems, BUT, I can’t post a link here and get it to work.

Humbling…

By Random

March 28, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Shaun—

Didn’t the M’s also pick up the Twins’ Carlos Silva? He’s not so dismissable as your omission would imply.

By Random

March 28, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

That’s right, Ramblin Wrecker — separate but equal (but separate).

Mets fans should know their place, and it’s just not here. They’d really be happier with their own kind.

I’m sure that some of your best friends are Mets fans, but you wouldn’t let your sister marry one, now would you?

Y.A.I.

By AGTfan

March 28, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

KC and Thrillhouse No offense or drugs taken.

When all of the teams in the division are 0-0 and all of the pitchers have ERAs of .000 I can dream. I just think it would be so much fun. Imagine how PO’d the Glavine haters would be, the Mets fans who somehow manage to blame Glavine for their historic late season collapse, instead of facing reality that they have a team with no heart that can’t handle adversity, or the Glavine hating Braves fans who would be so confused. Of course I think they’re so confused anyway.

By DAP

March 28, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Ramblin’ Wrecker dont see how you can say the cubs dont have much of a rotation, but then cite the reds 5, which is definetly no better than the reds guys.

the cubs also have rich hill, ted lilly, jason marquis, shawn marshall..these guys arent cy young contenders, but all pretty solid.

Harang, Arroyo, Belisle, Volquez and Cueto are worth mentioning, but the cubs guys arent? wrong. cubs pitching is better. i just looked at the reds roster, and i dont see cueto on there…they do have josh fogg though, which i had forgotten.

By David O'Brien

March 28, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Hammy the Brave, I’m flying to D.C. on Saturday, won’t be at the Braves game.

By oldMarine

March 28, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

To The Bear…..defintely a great…remembering about that a looooong time ago. Used to go see the crackers play and hope to see Bob Montag go deep. You may know this but what WAS the old ballpark is now a Home Depot! Sheeesh!