AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > April > 02 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USTex will be fine, but that bullpen….
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Those of you who’ve expressed concerns about Mark Teixeira due to his woeful spring and 1-for-10 start to the regular season, let me reiterate: No need to worry about him. Your trepidation would be better spent on other matters.
Like, for instance, determining at what point do the hazards of hitch-hiking become acceptable in the face of the soaring costs of gasoline and the nickel-and-dime gouging by airlines?
But seriously….
Concerns about the Braves? Yes, there are a couple, though it’s silly to judge things based on the first two games of a 162-game season. Particularly when one game was a season-opener at a new ballpark the Braves saw for the first time a few hours before they played the game, and the other game was their home opener played the next night after the team arrived home at 4 a.m.
Still, only hitters named Yunel, Chipper and McCann have done much of anything, and the bullpen has absolutely blown … er, blown leads.
And by the way, who’d have ever thought that a Sunday afternoon blowout loss at Pittsburgh last May 13 would be the turning point of the Braves’ fortunes, and that they’d be just another mediocre baseball team forever after that?
Kidding, of course. Well, sort of.
Take a look at these numbers: The Braves were 24-12 with a 3.83 ERA before that 13-2 loss at Pittsburgh on a getaway day May 13. Other than Anthony Lerew getting lit up, the game taking forever, and the one-sided loss making for less than a party atmosphere on the charter flight to Washington, there really wasn’t any reason to fret much over one loss after the strong 36-game start.
But in 128 games beginning that day in the Steel City, the Braves have gone 60-68 with a 4.22 ERA.
What does it mean? Well, other than they’re eight games under .500 for their past 128 games, I don’t know what it means. Just thought I’d point it out.
By the way, in that same span since May 13, the Nationals are 64-64, the Phillies are 72-55, the Mets are 67-62 (despite their September collapse) and, just FYI, the Cubs are 69-60.
Anyway, back to the bullpen. The Braves expect to have Mike Gonzalez back the first week in June, and they can only hope he doesn’t take too long to get back to something resembling dominant form.
Because it looks like they might need him more than some expected. (OK, now there I go, putting too much value on the results of two games in a 162-game season. I’ll try to remember that the next time I chastise someone else for doing what I just did.)
The bullpen cost the Braves a shot at coming from behind to win Sunday at Washington (after they’d tied it in the ninth), and Tim Hudson again had nothing to show for a fine pitching performance (this time he got no run support; last year he had four leads blown by Wickman).
And relievers spoiled Tom Glavine’s homecoming and an absurd ninth-inning Braves rally fueled by patience (four walks in five batters), Hoss (Chipper’s clutch hit and hustle), and one of the worst two-out fielding blunders imiginable by two Pittsburgh outfielders who watched a popup land between them.
Still, like I said, two outs is way, way too soon to brand this another shaky bullpen. Lot of great arms down there. We saw enough of Manny Acosta and especially Peter Moylan last season to believe that their performances in the first couple of games this week had more to do with being too geeked up and/or trying to get into a rhythm, rather than being ominous signs of things to come.
(However, I will say that the undeniably talented Acosta is awfully young and inexperienced to be cast in the role of important setup man; might be better to ease him into the role over the first couple of months, though your setup options other than Moylan do all come with some question marks or concerns.)
But back to Teixeira for a moment. Yes, he hit .211 with two homers, 12 RBIs and 15 strikeouts in 57 at-bats this spring, and his .351 slugging percentage in Grapefruit League slugging percentage was barely higher than Brent Lillibridge’s .345. But as Teixeira told me in Florida, he’s had bad springs most years and expects them, because he doesn’t focus on anything at spring training other than getting ready for the regular season, with extra weightlifting and hitting most days during camp.
As for his 1-for-10 start to the season, consider this: In his first 15 games last season for the Rangers, Teixeira hit .192 (10-for-52) with one extra-base hit (double) and two RBI.
Then in his next 22 games, he hit .349 with 12 doubles, five homers and 16 RBI.
Tex will be fine.
Kelly Johnson, on the other hand…. We’ll know more about Kelly’s sore right knee after we get to the ballpark today. As I wrote on opening day, it’s something that bothered him not just this spring, but since last spring training.
He said the Braves haven’t been able to determine what causes the occasional soreness on the outer part of his knee, but that it’s more an annoyance than anything else, not something that’s prevented him from playing.
But he tweaked it early in Monday’s game and came out after four innings (and after making a costly fielding error).
For those scoring at home, Kelly’s not done much with the bat since Aug. 5, notwithstanding a pair of singles in six at-bats in the first two games.
Including the last 43 games of the 2007 season, he’s had a .219 average and 12 extra-base hits in his past 160 at-bats. Throw in his lackluster spring (.226, two doubles) and it’s a .221 average with 14 extra-base hits in 213 at-bats.
That said, he’s a streak hitter capable of reeling off a 30-game sizzling stretch at any time. Kelly told me he’s trying hard this season to be more consistent, so it’s not something he takes a cavalier attitude about.
In fact, he’s as diligent a worker as there is on the team, one of three or four hitters that Terry Pendleton could usually count on seeing every morning in the batting cage at 7 a.m., long before most Braves arrived.
But hey, it’s not like the Braves don’t have another leadoff option if Kelly has to miss any time. You’ve probably noticed, the kid hitting behind him, Yunel Escobar, rakes wherever he’s at in the order.
Said it last fall, said it all winter, and will say it again now: Escobar will be a star. Very soon.
OK, quick music talk: What a terrific week for new music releases, including strong new albums by R.E.M. and Black Keys and a borderline-brilliant debut CD from Steve Earle’s son, Justin Townes Earle (the fact that Steve’s got a son old enough to make great songs about hard living makes me feel old).
If you like the Black Keys, you should run, not walk, to the store to get their new Attack and Release CD produced by Danger Mouse, the former UGa student and non-singing half of Gnarl Barkley. The Black Keys have their usual Led Zep roar, but the production adds whole new wrinkles to their sound, stuff that all works to make this as good as anything they’ve put out (and that’s saying something, because every Black Keys album has been good to great).
It’s blues, rock and soul all rolled up in a big, tasty ball of sound. For my money, the Black Keys are better than the far-more-celebrated White Stripes, who have plenty of similarities, beyond the fact that it’s basically just two folks producing that wall of sound each band produces.
Earle’s The Good Life is the rootsy slice of Americana you might expect from the offspring of Steve Earle, a kid named after the great Townes Van Zandt (how tough is it to live up that, by the way?). He’s only 25, but young Earle has the songwriting chops and just enough punk attitude to give a strong edge to his old-timey sounding country- and bluegrass-tinged tunes. And he’s smart enough to surround himself with a great band, including Pete Finney on pedal-steel. Georgia folks, especially those down around Macon, should love the tune, “South Georgia Sugar Babe.”
And finally, the album that’s got me stoked. My old favorite band is back. Not that R.E.M. ever retired or anything, but I mean, they’re really back with a vital sound and a rockin’ record some of us wondered if they’d ever make again unless Bill Berry were back on drums. He’s not, but the CD Accelerate absolutely rocks, start to finish (and it’s nice and short, like albums used to be, full of no filler).
It’s better than Green or Monster, far better than Up, or Reveal or Around the Sun, and as good or better than New Adventures in Hi-Fi, which was their last really strong, energetic rocker of an album (that was 1996).
Give me a few weeks before I decide if I think it’s as good as Out of Time, Fables of the Reconstrution or Document. If not, it’s close to being as good as each of those, which rank near the top of R.E.M.’s deep discography.
Is it their best? No, in my humble opinion. It’s not as good as Automatic for the People” or Life’s Rich Pageant, not to mention seminal albums Murmur or Reckoning. All four of those are solid-A albums. This one, probably a B+ or A-.
All is right again in my music universe.
Long live the greatest band from the rich musical hotbed of Athens, Ga. (and if these lyrics aren’t correct, we’d appreciate Mr. Stipe or anyone else pointing out any mistakes).
”MAN-SIZED WREATH” by Michael Stipe (R.E.M.)
Turn on the TV and what do I see?
A pageantry of empty gestures all lined up for me — wow!
I’d have thought by now we would be ready to proceed
But a tearful hymn to tug the heart
And a man-sized wreath — ow!
Throw it on the fire
Throw it in the air
Kick it out on the dance- loor like you just don’t care, oh
Give me some
Wave the palms, steal the alms, fists in the air
A motorcade of benign strength shows the people that you care — ow!
Nature abhors a vacuum but what’s between your ears?
Your judgement clouded with fearful thoughts
A headlights and a deer — ow!
Throw it on the fire
Throw it in the air
Kick it out on the dance floor like you just don’t care
Look at what I’ve found
Everybody look around
Everybody looking like they just don’t care, oh
Give me some
Well I’m not deceived by pomp and odious conceit
But a tearful hymn to tug the heart
And a man-sized wreath - ow!
Throw it on the fire
Throw it in the air
Kick it out on the dance-floor like you just don’t care
Look at what I’ve found
Everybody look around
Everybody looking like they just don’t care
Throw it on the fire
Throw it in the air
Kick it out on the dance floor like you just don’t care, oh
Give me some
Give me some
Give me some
Comments
By bravos08
April 2, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this
first?
By brent a.
April 2, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this
In the top ten.
By Original Jon
April 2, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this
First?
By brent a.
April 2, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
Isn’t that Pittsburgh game when Chipper Jones got hurt falling over the 3rd baseman?
By Roman Gal
April 2, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
The bullpen didn’t cost Hudson a win. He was in line for the loss until the ninth inning, silly.
By David
April 2, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this
Man I sure hope we get our first win tonight! We all hate excuses, but several could be made for the Braves play in those first two games. Now home and rested, let’s hope the Braves put that disappointment behind them and pick up a few W’s in a row!
By Romanbrave
April 2, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this
Second….or first
By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this
Kelly may only have two singles, but he’s also come close to having two doubles, both down the left field line, one against the Nats and one against the Pirates. Apart from the knee, his bat looks fine to me.
By BossLady
April 2, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
O K I’ll bite, Top 10
By j-rock
April 2, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
who is MATT Lillibridge?
By ScootBrave18
April 2, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
Good Stuff DOB…About Tex, I’m not concerned AT ALL, if you notice, it’s not like he hasn’t been hitting the ball hard. That pesky shortstop for the Pirates (Wilson?) made 2 very nice plays on hard hit balls on Monday night.
P.S. I want one of those new road alternate jerseys…those things looked GOOD!
By Chris
April 2, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
Dave, seriously, Accelerate is awesome, but New Adventures is criminally underrated. Leave, on its own, could make just about any album. Also, Automatic is an A+. That record was classic the moment it hit store shelves.
By NRBQ
April 2, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
R.E.M. played a bar where I worked in ‘80 or ‘81, before Radio Free Europe was released.
It was “Punk Night.” Most of the 40 or 50 people that showed up where just there to get there regular drunk on, and hardly noticed.
Who knew?
By 22oz
April 2, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
i think Acosta’s problem Monday night was he was trying to throw the heater too much, trying to announce his presence with authority, a little bit like Nuke from Bull Durham. Cox forced that hand though, using four pitchers in the 7th inning. Not to mention Sunday night using a lefty specialist to retire Willie Harris. Willie? Really?
By Cherokee
April 2, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
True. Not many outside of the Tigers and Braves figure him to be more than a mid level pitcher. But so far that is the best young pitcher this team has. And even then, burning him out this year would be a waste.TPaul
Oh I agree with that. 170 should be a max, but I’m not so sure Bobby is up on that stuff. Dave’ll have to bring it to his attention.
By Patrick
April 2, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
I was wondering that too Brent. I think you’re right
By chuckw/deadjournalist
April 2, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
excellent point on acosta. my concern in the bullpen is the lack of experience. there really isn’t anyone, other than maybe ohman, that has more than a one year of big league experience.
By TennesseePaul
April 2, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the work DOB.
From the previous blog:
herokee: True. Not many outside of the Tigers and Braves figure him to be more than a mid level pitcher. But so far that is the best young pitcher this team has. And even then, burning him out this year would be a waste. 40 extra innings is a 25% increased work load. 165 innings, 15%, would work just fine for me. He’d be in position to go 190 innings the following season (still only a 15% increase) and it should reduce the possibility of injury.
And one more
Efrim: take a look at Micah Owings numbers from last year
For sure! I mean look at this…
If we can get that kind of production from the nine spot I’ll be ecstatic! Oh wait, did you mean pitching?
By kdbanks
April 2, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
I’m predicting Jair goes 8 innings tonight, gives up 5 hits and 1 run and the Braves win easy, setting the table for a string of about 12 wins in the next 16 games.
That’s how I roll, yo.
By Eric from MO
April 2, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this
Tex will be fine and I dont think Kelly’s bat has been that bad. Now his defense has been horrible. Oh yeah, those jerseys are ugly. Remind me too much of the blue Padres jerseys and I think those are ugly too.
By ElbravoX-- EbX
April 2, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this
Marcus Giles reportedly changed his mind about signing a minor league deal with the Dodgers after agreeing to terms with the team. According to the L.A. Daily News, Giles was driving to join the Triple-A Las Vegas affiliate from his home in San Diego, only to turn around before he got there. The plan was for Giles to play third base for the 51s for about 10 days before being called up by the Dodgers. Now he might be considering retirement.
By TennesseePaul
April 2, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
You know, now that I re-read what I just posted… I’d like to qualify it with “that is the best young pitcher [in the starting rotation] that the Braves have”. Basically, the only young pitcher in the starting rotation. I’ll reserve giving him credit as best in the whole organization until he’s pitched a few games as a Brave.
By Eric from MO
April 2, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
What with everything being in italics?
By TURTSNAP
April 2, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
Brent A. I think that was the series, but if memory serves me, Chipper’s freak injury was Friday night, and the blow out game was a Sunday afternoon game. DOB I like your point about Acosta and being thrust into the setup role. I worry about his psyche much the same way I worried about Devine’s when we thrust him into the closer role. I hope Acosta can bounce back, because I do like his stuff.
On another note, I was in the park Monday, and saw Resop. This was the first I had seen of him and boy was I impressed!! Although I think he did give up a run, man the guy was lighting up the radar gun, and throwing strikes. I had seen you blog about him on several occasions, but seeing him in person, I do believe the hype. Kid is good!!
Lets go Jair!! Get us a win tonight!!!
While I don’t wish ill-will on anyone, I did notice that the Mets received a chink in their pitching “armor” last night with Pedro. Like I said though, no ill-will, or gloating as the Braves could be facing the same tune before we know it.
Finally, I read it somewhere, may have been here on a blog, but the Braves reluctance to “change Frenchy’s aggressiveness” is starting to concern me too. As the person pointed out, they took that approach with Andruw too. Hopefully they can rethink this approach.
By DCbrave
April 2, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the new blog DOB.
With only two games played, given the circumstances surrounding both games, I am not sure even the bullpen should be a concern, at least not now. Given their ST performances, and given the way almost ALL of them performed poorly altogether in the home opener, one has to think that was an abnormality.
By Efrim
April 2, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
TennPaul
Nice. Look at those numbers!!!! 1,032 OPS!!! Those numbers would be nice for anyone in 60 at bats. The kid is a modern day Ruth.
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this
J-Rock, I write all that, and all you’ve got is “Who is Matt Lillibridge?” You gotta bring it better than that, my man.
Besides, don’t even know what you’re referring to (just gotta love how easily typos can be fixed here).
By nOLIE
April 2, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
DOB
Ok , you finally came up with a new(er) band that I like. Black Keys is pretty good. I’ve tried a lot of the newer bands that you mention, but have’t really cared for most of them, though some Mike Ness and a few Drive By Truckers songs were decent; but this one I like. I’ll keep trying. Thanks.
By ElbravoX-- EbX
April 2, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
The last blog had 925 posts in a week day blog. My-oh-my, one remembers a time when a 1000 posts over a weekend was huge. I wonder what other team blogs average, any stats out there?
By ScootBrave18
April 2, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
The red Sunday jerseys are ugly…the navy blue road jerseys are sharp eric
By Lew
April 2, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this
In the Musical Say What? Department for all you hard rockers-The band Velvet Revolver has parted ways with singer Scott Weiland due to excessive drug use and erratic behavior on stage.
Does anyone else find it somewhat ironic that a band composed of three former members of Guns and Roses are throwing a band member out for drug use and erratic behavior? Oh well-no one ever said Slash made it through the GnR years with an intact brain.
It does precede a reunion tour this summer with Weiland rejoining the Stone Temple Pilots.
By doug
April 2, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
After reading DOB write about all this new music, I though I would turn on the radio here at work for a while. Loverboy was on the classic cafe.
We need a new rock station here in a bad way. I would have settled for some Whitesnake. Oh well, back to work.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
April 2, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
I would not worry too much about Acosta, I watched him implode like he did Monday night once last year with Richmond. Then he reeled off about 10 games where no one could hit him. I told the wife, who was watching the game with me, that Acosta looked flat. Sure enough BooM.
Trends however, do become evident in the long run. The entire team looked a bit uninspired in the first two game. I think that is going to change this week.
Do we really think the Nationals will continue on their current path any more than we believe the Braves will fail?
By Jeff
April 2, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
Does anyone know what channel Peachtree TV HD is on Direct TV or is that broadcast HD because it doesnt look like it and it isnt listed as HD?
By bravesfan
April 2, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
FYI in the Royals-Tigers game, Edgar Renteria is 2 for 2.
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Gil in Mechanicsville, the team was not uninspired, they came back twice. Thats a good sign…… very good one. Theyll be fine. Lots of weapons and talent. I just hope they get on the right track soon. We are all hungry for them to start kicking azz.
By TennesseePaul
April 2, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
Lew: I had not heard that about Scott. And are you saying he’s going back to tour with STP? I’m not a promoter of drugs but that man wrote much better lyrics under the needle than he did sober. Shangri-LA DEE DA was less than impressive.
By brent a.
April 2, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this
Thanks to those who responded to my Chipper Jones question.
It looks like he played on Friday (got hurt), and then we won on Saturday w/out him, before the losing began on Sunday.
(Pete Orr was the starting 3B both days).
By nolie
April 2, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
Thank you ZBrave, maybe I ain’t a total dummy. I mean…
*I been to Georgia on the fast train honey
I wasn’t born no yesterday
I got a good Christian raisin’ and a 8th grade educatin’
ain’t no need y’all treatin’ me this way*
Billy Joe Shaver
By Lee
April 2, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB, You may have addressed this question before, but I haven’t seen much printed on this subject and haven’t been able to read all the posts the last week or so. But what can you tell me about Pat Corrales leaving the Braves and going over to the Nationals after 17 years. I found a washington story from early March that just said it had nothing to do with Bobby or John and that he didn’t want to go into it. Can you clue me in?
By Mark Fanxeira/ BBFCFM
April 2, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
I heard weiland decided himself that he was leaving the band and that he announced it was their last tour during a show overseas, to the surprise of his bandmates. Just what I heard on the radio.
On a Braves related note, there is nothing I can really say that has not been uttered already, but, I’ll do so anyway.
Tex will be fine. He needs to tighten up at first base however. I realize he didn’t commit all the errors, but it seemed to me that he could’ve scooped those errant throws.
We’ll see what verdict “The Jury” brings tonight, but I have a feeling it will be swift and just.
Kelly’s injury worries me a bit and I wonder if it would behoove his longevity to sit out a few days to a week. we shall see.
Chipper is Chipper and you can’t go wrong.
Hampton is the one true test I think. Will he get hurt? It’s really a toss up. Boy seems fragile. But, if he does pitch well, we must have the best #4 in the league..Maine is quite good though as well..
well, thats all I got
By Gil in Mechanicsville
April 2, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
Overlord That was not inspired play by the Braves, that was poor play by the Pirates. Now, that said, I look for the Braves to kick it into another gear as that should know by now, other teams are not going to roll over for them any more.
By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
TennPaul, you’re dead wrong about Jerrjens. Scouts, including Prospectus and Baseball America peg Jurrjens as a 2 guy. So I don’t know what you’re smoking, but keep me away from it. Kid has a high ceiling, with possible questions about staying healthy. But to suggest nobody thinks he can be more than mid level outside the Braves and Tigers is just asinine.
By ScottBravesfan
April 2, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
Bought the new REM and Black Keys records last night and they both are awesome. The REM is a like a long lost friend suddenly reappeared and hasn’t missed a beat. Damn I missed this band. Black Keys is brilliant like the rest of their catalog.
By propp
April 2, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
As far as the 0-2 start…the NL East Champion Phillies started out 0-3 (against us, no less) last year, look where they ended up…
By flange1
April 2, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
Afternoon all,
I have been slammed at work the last couple of days and have just caught up reading the blog.
2 games is not a season folks so chill.
Yes the fielding looked like garbage and the bullpen was not at it’s best, but this is a young team. I am sure they are a bit nervous/excited about the upcoming season.
They know they are good and they are pressing.
We need a good start out of JJJ tonight and folks just have to go out and play their game.
It will all come together…
Isn’t it a shame that Pedro gets hurt in his first start? Hamstring pulls and pitchers do not go well together.
Hope El Ducke get better quick! For lots of reasons!
By TennesseePaul
April 2, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this
Epinephrine: Before you get all upset, I was responding to a poster who credited Jair as a mid order prospect. I’ve seen a lot of reports suggesting as much. Could you link the sources for those you cite?
By Ramblin Wrecker
April 2, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this
I think the problem with our relievers is they are amped up and are a little to confident in their fastballs. Fastballs over the plate have a tendency to become souvenirs even when they are 95mph+. All these guys have gas, but it matters where you throw it. Glavine is a great example. His gun readings would hardly get a yawn by the state patrol if he was on I-75. But he puts it where he wants it and often its more effective than throwing 100mph. So I’d advise Moylan, Acosta and Boyer (and Resop too, before he groves a 98mph fastball that finds the seats) to start pitching, instead of throwing. Get the ball down and out of the middle.
By Efrim
April 2, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this
Epinephrine
Baseball America pegged him as a #3. If there is any real difference between a #2 or #3, according to BA that is.
By Steeledawg
April 2, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
Although I have only listened to it once, Accelerate seems to be a return to form for R.E.M., but Automatic is still my fave.
I am very interested to see how “The Jury” reacts tonight. Will he pitch with the confidence that he showed in SP, or will he feel the pressure of his first start on a new team with a two game losing streak?
By VegasBrave
April 2, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
ElbravoX— EbX, the news about Giles is disappointing…I heard he was stopping by in Las Vegas and was actually looking forward to seeing him at a Las Vegas 51’s game (best name for a AAA team ever, btw…new management’s going to change it next year, sadly).
Been listening to Accelerate…pretty much flipping between it and the new Gnarls Barkley album for the last few days. I give it a solid B+…and makes me wish I still lived in Athens, near a great music scene. The best option in Las Vegas right now is Engelbert Humperdinck. Sigh.
By Lew
April 2, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
TenPaul-There are several dates for the STP tour already scheduled for this summer, though I’m not sure what their itinerary is.
Your comment on the lyrics reminds me of a Bill Maher quote-“I don’t advocate heroin usage for anyone, but I can’t claim that it’s hurt my record collection.” I still think Clapton was a better guitarist when he was strung out than he is today-of course, he would very likely be playing in the All Star Dead Band now with Duane Allman if he hadn’t quit.
By Steeledawg
April 2, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
DOB- I’m not sure if you saw it, but I saw a report that said Friday Night Lights has been renewed for a third season. In my opinion it is the best show on TV, and definately has the best soundtrack.
By Ed Glennon
April 2, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
Based on his play so far Broras will base Tex’s salary next year on his number of at bats. Play hardball with that. By the way do you know who the highest 5th place hitter in the National League is? Wouldn’t you think for $18 million you could find a guy who could third or fourth?
By Turfmen
April 2, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this
DOB thanks for all of your reporting, you are the man. I am with you about TEX and i dont think we should worry about the bullpen. Moylan threw one bad pitch to a very good hitter in washington. other than Manny’s meltdown the bullpen was solid. manny is young. he will get his stuff together. he did last year. Boyer pitched an inning too many. BUT we had no one else in the bullpen so he had to pitch. The Bullpen will be fine. LETS NOT FRET BRAVES NATION!! we have 160 more games to claim the EAST!!! Go Braves!!! DOB you are the man
By Shamus Thacker
April 2, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this
Maybe Tex should take a different approach to spring training. He should have his stroke down by GAME ONE of the regular season. THAT is what spring training is for. Wins/losses at the season’s beginning are as important as wins/losses at season’s end. He’s getting his stroke down DURING the season. If the Braves miss the playoffs by two games, you can credit at least part of that to Tex’s failure to prepare himself DURING spring training, for the early season. It could take 10/20 games before he’s on track. By then, it might be too late. If he’d applied himself hitting-wise during spring training, he’d be ready NOW. He’s not. I know he’s a hard worker, but his spring priorities are bass ackwards.
Aloha from Cedartown….
By Cherokee
April 2, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this
But to suggest nobody thinks he can be more than mid level outside the Braves and Tigers is just asinine.EPI
actually I suggested that first. everything that I read at the time of the trade listed him with a middle of the order high side. Prospectus, hmmm ,that’s the same site that cites Yunel as no more than an utility infielder isn’t it? Did you agree wholeheartedly with that one? I thought it was kinda asinine myself. And a year or so ago BBA did not rate him that high in what I read. So I’d appreciate some links to get re-educated, please.I’ll be thrilled to learn that he’s an ace in waiting. Thank you.
By Shamus Thacker
April 2, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this
If the best option is Engelbert, who the Hell is the worst option?
By DCbrave
April 2, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
Ramblin Wrecker - very true that the young guns need to learn how to “pitch” quick, and the pitching coach needs to stress that. I remember old Leo was always preaching “low and outside corner.”
By Novice Ned
April 2, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
Did I hear that Jair might be “brought along slowly” to ensure he lasts the entire season since he hasn’t pitched more than like 150 innings in a season? Just thinking that outside of Huddy, seems like during the first 2-3 roations turns, the bullpen may be crazy busy. Why are we carrying 3 catchers and when will that mystery deal get done so that we can bring up Buddy?
By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
TennPaul: Prospectus and BA don’t publish them online, I bought the books for the spring training trip. But I’m not lying, and anyone else who has the books can vouch for me.
Efrim-I’m sure you’re right, I don’t have the book with me. I know BA liked him more than Prospectus (which isn’t saying much, considering Prospectus trashes just about everyone), but both were positive, and suggested he had a nice ceiling. BA listed him as our 3rd prospect in the organization, behind Heyward. Either way, both peg him higher than a “midlevel starter”.
Also, people like Gammons, Olney, etc. have said in their ESPN chats that they are high on him, and that it may turn out to be the trade of the offseason.
The point being, Jurrjens has caught the attention of a lot more people than homers inside the Braves and Tigers organization. Sorry I can’t post any links.
By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
As for music, Handsome Furs concert tomorrow. Anyone that hasn’t listened to them should. What We Had and Hate This City are both on their myspace page, and are really fantastic songs.
Plus, new Wolf Parade album on the near horizon.
By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
And I just swapped Prospectus and BA in my post, but you get the point.
By DCbrave
April 2, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
Maybe Tex should take a different approach to spring training. He should have his stroke down by GAME ONE of the regular season *Shamus Thacker *
I second that as it is part of “getting ready for the regular season.”
By Scuba-Steve
April 2, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this
DOB,where art thou? I haven’t seen many posts from you the last couple of blogs. I miss your input :-(.
By ncscoots
April 2, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
Did I hear that Jair might be “brought along slowly” to ensure he lasts the entire season since he hasn’t pitched more than like 150 innings in a season?
Exactly the reason he should be pitching at 5. The starts skipped at 5 will allow him to keep his innings per game up (hopefully), and total innings down. Best of both worlds.
‘Course, that means that Glavine actually has to produce innings, as advertised, and that Bobby gets more concerned about Jurrjens’ innings than whether two lefties go back-to-back.
By Efrim
April 2, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
Epinephrine- He is a solid, future middle of the rotation starter with a frontline ceiling. Either way, the kid has a bright future and it was an excellent trade by Frank Wren.
By TennesseePaul
April 2, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
Yes. I mistyped. Mid-Level should be Mid-Order or Mid-Rotation. I see how the term “level” would appear to position the guy as a perpetual AA or AAA pitcher. Not what I intended. Everything I read says he can pitch in the majors, but more of the middle of the rotation. I haven’t read anything that says “ace”, “number one”, “front line starter” or any phrasing that would imply as much.
By Jim
April 2, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
The relief pitching throughout baseball was bad Monday night. Maybe what we saw Monday was an aberration. I am hoping for good things out of Acosta based upon what we saw of him last year. Moylan has made one very bad pitch, but did exactly what he was supposed to do on Monday. I just hope we don’t burn him out before the All-Star break with the uncertainties shown by the rest of the pen. Resop, Soriano, Ohman, Acosta, Bennet, and Boyer all got into trouble by making a fat pitch to the first batter of the inning. The weakness that I see in the bullpen is that we are prizing velocity over location. Resop, Boyer, and Acosta were all hitting 95+ on the radar gun, but they were very inconsistent with their location. Good velocity and movement with inconsistent location can lead to very inconsistent results producing some very dominant outings but being vulnerable to the homerun or meltdown innings that we saw on Monday. I hate to say it, but watching Heilman and Smith last night, I saw two relievers with less dominating stuff than the late innings guys in our pen, but with a better command of their stuff who give a better sense of security to their fans and team mates.
By Scuba-Steve
April 2, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
Speaking of music, has anybody heard of the local band, Father Peter?
By rbrave
April 2, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this
I’m not worried yet. But I thought Tex should have been able to scoop up those throws in the dirt. I know its not his error but I thought he should have been able to come up with those. Looking forward to JJ’s first start tonight. Good job DOB
By Train Wreck Bystander
April 2, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
Question:
Who will Corky Miller be catching for? Constantly one pitcher in the rotation or just whenever B-Mac needs a day off?
By Willie Jacques
April 2, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
I don’t have concerns about the bullpen. I have concerns about how thery are used. Can’t beleive that the Braves were out of pitching by the 10th inning. That goes on the manager and his situational pitching that has come to bite the Braves in the rear many a time!!
By Andy K
April 2, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this
DOB:If Spiezio does well in AAA, what are they going to do when they call him up? Who will go down?
By 18 Wheels of Love
April 2, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this
No kidding about Weiland…
And Axl and Slash did throw Steven Adler out of G n’ R because his drug use was worse than theirs…ha!
Gonna get the REM today…looking forward to it. One of my favorites pictures that I have is of me and Bill Berry at a golf function…fun guy to hang out with.
Listening to Steely Dan exclusively today…now that’s some good stuff, even their new ones are awesome. F* is the man.
By Eric from MO
April 2, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
ScottBraves gotta disagree with you, the navy blue ones are ugly. Way to plain and ordinary. Nothing special about them. If they want blue ones go with the blue ones used in the 90’s.
By Andy K
April 2, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
By the way…how much of an idiot is Marcus Giles? Wow! Way to go…drive half-way to the Dodger’s facility and then decide you don’t wanna play third base. Ridiculous!
By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
TennPaul, got it. To me mid-level means, good at triple A, maybe a solid 4 or 5 guy. I see what you’re saying now.
As for his innings, durability is definitely the big question to me about Jair, but he should be able to hit at least around 170 on a normal development curve.
By Moby Grape
April 2, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
Kid has a high ceiling, with possible questions about staying healthy. But to suggest nobody thinks he can be more than mid level outside the [Braves and Tigers is just asinine.Epinephrine
whoa, that’s mighty strong language from a guy who uses Yunel’s Prospectus friends and a mis-statement of Baseball America which listed him as a 3 guy if all goes well] as proof. I’ve never seen him listed any higher before some on this board started calling him a future stud. Some people might think that was a sort of asinine post, dontcha think? S’Ok though, we understand, all that adrenaline running around in your system all the time can make for an Excitible Boy
By Original Jon
April 2, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
Guys guys guys, Something I just thought about, and it holds so true, is that, its the beginning of the season, Hitters usually do have the advantage the first few weeks over bullpen pitchers because the ‘pens-men usually dont pitch as many innings to get ready in spring training games. Then again, I could be wrong. But it would make sense that the hitters timing is better at the beginning of the season because they practice hitting more. Pitchers cannot go out every single day and throw or their arms would be done before the season started. Just my thoughts on the matter.
By AGTfan
April 2, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
I’m sure Tex is going to change his approach to spring training. After all he’s been so unsuccessful so far in his career.
By Evan
April 2, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB, I don’t usually recommend music to others but i just discovered this great new band from New York called MGMT. They sound a little bit like Modest Mouse so you should give it a try if you haven’t already.
By woogidy
April 2, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
On the music side of things, those of you (like myself) that have the taste for some modern rock (Nickelback, Trapt, 10 Years, Linkin Park, 3 Days Grace, 3 Doors Down) pick up the new Theory of a Deadman CD called “Scars and Souvenirs”. It came out yesterday, and I happen to think it is fantastic. Best disc of the young year.
It is rubbish to suggest that Tex will not bounce back from his slow start. He will, in the end, perform like his American-American self. I am also prone to think that we will enjoy watching Kotsay play defense out there. He sure does throw well. How lucky are we to get to watch Escobar play shortstop every day this year? He is so fun to watch. Not to say Edgar was bad, he was just so typical. Yunel has some sort of flash about him. I am calling what he’s got the “it” factor, as they say. I hate to compare other sports to baseball, but the Yunel situation reminds me of when Tom Brady replaced Drew Bledsoe. Brady has “it” you know? Obviously Tom Brady has way more impact on his team than Yunel will on his, but I, for one, will pay to see this guy play. The ball just seems to find the sweet spot on that stick of his.
Now to the ‘pen issues, I have the opinion that these guys just had the opening day jitters. I think they had just a little too much adrenaline, hence leaving the ball up and out over the plate. You are not going to get away with those pitches in the big leagues. The good thing is, all of them have pitched now, so the jitters should be gone. Tonight is a new night.
DOB, Did you here the sound of all those Homer’s in New York yelling “DOH!” last night when Pedro went out? He said he heard something pop. Not good.
By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Moby Grape, Prospectus analyzes every player in the bigs, in addition to some prospects. Moreover, they have several different scouts that are assigned to different teams and players. The fact that they might get a player wrong is statistically inevitable. The person who wrote the write up of Yunel, in my opinion, made a pretty big mistake. But what in the world does that have to do with their other evaluations? Prospectus has been consistently pretty good with their predictions.
By GermanBravesFan
April 2, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
Pretty funny to read some people’s “concerns” after TWO games!!! Geez… Let’s wait a couple of months and then see where the Braves stand! Everybody needs to relax a bit…
By VegasBrave
April 2, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
Shamus Thacker, music here is pretty rough. The last show I went to was a Flaming Lips show at the Palms casino. To get in, I had to buy an 18-pack of Miller Lite from a convenience store, peel a sticker off the box, and take it to the box office to get tickets. Then it turns out the show only lasts 1.5 hours…concerts in casinos have to be over by 10pm. Oh, and the stage was set up in front of a giant pool, so you couldn’t get directly in front of the stage. But hey, at least I could drink the beer later, right?
By Northern Redneck
April 2, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
Man oh man how I wish I could be Sir Robert Cox for a week. I think the time is NOW to try out Gregor Blanco in CF. Now don’t get me wrong, Kotsay has played great, way better than expected so far, but Blanco hit the snot out of the ball in Spring and looked good through-out…imagine this line-up… 1.Blanco 2. Esco 3. Hoss 4.Tex (who NOBODY should worry about) 5.Frenchy 6. Mccann 7. Diaz 8.KJ…. THAT sounds like a very formidable line-up to me, and something that I hope to see often this year (whether it be Schafer, Anderson, or Blanco.
Secondly to DOB, is there any chance that Spezio does anything good this year to help the Braves? Obviously we shouldn’t hold our breath but it would be nice if he could give us a strong bat off the bench
Finally I want to tell all of you nay-sayers that you ought to be ashamed of yourselves. It is TWO ..TWO games into the season and your already jumping ship, give me a BREAK. I believe a little team called the ROCKIES last year started 18-27… Wait until June for all of you fairweather fans to jump off the bandwagon if the team isn’t doing well.
By FrenchiesMaid
April 2, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this
Here’s what NOT to do on your birthday…look at the Braves roster!
I’m older than over half the current 25-man roster! Dang…at least there’s always Smoltz, Glav, and Chipper!
By TN Jeff
April 2, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
Broken record here - but can anyone recall a single late game clutch hit by Tex / or for that matter any other Brave save Chipper & Diaz?
By TJ
April 2, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
Kansas City just beat the Tigers 4-0. Tigers had 3 hits, all by Renteria.
Who would’ve thought Detroit would get shut out all year, much less by the Royals and Brian Bannister?
By DCbrave
April 2, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Wow, the royals just beat the tigers, again, this time 4:0. Edgar got all 3 hits the tigers team got.
By wiki
April 2, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this
FrenchiesMaid
Yeah, I stopped doing that a few years ago. I’m 2 months younger than Smoltz. Feels like we grew up together…..well, not really :)
By RC
April 2, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
TN Jeff,
I would say a 9th inning double in Washington when your team is down one would qualify as a “clutch hit”.
By ContactBuzz
April 2, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
Detroit Tigers…3 hits today as a team…all by Renteria.
By Efrim
April 2, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
TN Jeff
Francouer…countless times.
Tex- no I can’t recall many late game clutch hits. But we were probably in striking distance because of Tex, so I am not sure what you are getting at…..
By Sir Stealth
April 2, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
TN Jeff, are you only referring to this season? If not, then Francoeur and McCann’s career performances in late game situations, or with 2 outs and RISP, make your post seem like a parody.
By TJ
April 2, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
can anyone recall a single late game clutch hit by Tex / or for that matter any other Brave save Chipper & Diaz?
TN Jeff, you mean since Mark Kotsay’s double in the 12th inning of our last game? Or Jeff Francouer’s homer in the preceeding at-bat?
By DAP
April 2, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
if spezio plays well at AAA, they will either trade pena and bring spezio up, or send miller down and bring spezio up. he a great bat of the bench and plays alot of positions, especially 1st base and 3rd base. a great pickup for the braves.
can someone fill me in on why he isnt in the majors? something happened with him, i recall, but i cant remember what…
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
SteeleDawg, that’s outstanding news about Friday Night LIghts. Since The Wire is done, I’d probably agree with you that it’s as good or better than anything else on the tube. The Shield and Rescue Me are at least as good, but don’t know if they’re any better….
Scuba, I was off yesterday, and for once tried to actually be off, not off-except-for-the-blog. This isn’t spring training anymore, so I won’t be sitting at my laptop much of the day and not having to keep an accurate scorebook. This stuff counts, so I’ve got to score the game and make deadline, that kind of thing. Don’t have time for constant comments, much as I’d prefer to do that.
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this
Speaking of … got to get down to clubhouse. Which is why you won’t hear from me for the next couple hours. Not carrying a crackberry to file from down there. when it comes to that, someone shoot me.
By chrisklob
April 2, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
The Tigers have lost two games to the lowly Royals. How will they ever make up that deficit? Well, this much is clear. The 0-2 Tigers need to can Leyland and the entire coaching staff, break the team up and trade those losers for whatever they can get and start from scratch.
:-)
By Daybed Wagmoe
April 2, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
DOB: Relievers cost Tim Hudson a shot at an opening-night win Sunday at Washington, after ex-closer Bob Wickman cost him several last season.
No, they didn’t. Hudson was never in line for an opening-night win on Sunday. When he left, the Braves were down 2-1. If anything, the OFFENSE cost him a shot at the win.
By FrenchiesMaid
April 2, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
LOL…wiki. I know what you mean. Sometimes I have a hard time believing that Chipper’s considered “the old mentor” to Heap (that nickname cracks me up, btw!) and Frenchie.
By Scuba-Steve
April 2, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
DOB, I understand and I appreciate all you do on the blog, just got spoiled during spring training I guess. I tend to act like an excited little kid waiting on Christmas to get here, when I wait on your comments….wow, that was sad wasn’t it…
By ncscoots
April 2, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
The Tigers have lost two games to the lowly Royals. How will they ever make up that deficit?
Klobber’s got it. Maybe all the hitters on the Tigers, except Renteria, needs to change their ST routine. Yeah. That’s the ticket.
By Efrim
April 2, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
The Tigers don’t need to worry, but the people who think that team is a shoe in for 1,000 runs are idiots. There is no way of knowing if that team is going to score over 6 runs per game. Great lineup of patient power hitters, but please on the 1,000 runs thing.
By RC
April 2, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Daybed,
I noticed that comment two. Everyone has been talking about “two bad games by the bullpen” when it’s really been “one bad game and one bad pitch by the bullpen.” Aside from one Moylan hanging slider, the pen was outstanding in the Washington game. And Moylan actually was good in the Pirates game, but KJ’s error ended up costing him.
By Daybed Wagmoe
April 2, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this
A few “Man-Sized Wreath” corrections:
Turn on the tv, what do I see?…
Give me some…
A motorcade of benign strength shows people that you care…
GREAT song. And thanks for doing that — I won the pool as for which Accelerate song’s lyrics you’d post first! Can you believe that Bryan thought it’d be “Houston”? Oh man…hey Bryan that’s $121 you owe me!!
By TJ
April 2, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
DAP, HERE is the most complete account I’ve seen on why the Cards released Spezio.
By TheCutMan
April 2, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
I will readily admit to not being as strong or knowledgable a MLB fan as I am to professional boxing, (My past career), or the NFL. I’m certainly not wanting to disrespect those MLB people such as DOB who know far more than I on the status of the team and its peformance to date.
DOB, afterall, is a most astute and daily observer of the players and team in general. His views are accepted by me with considerable weight and importance by virtue of his access to team personnel and his evaluation of what’s really happening with the team.
However, (And you had to know that word was coming), I have to voice some observations and concerns that are contrary to the conventional views of where this Braves team is at present.
ITEM: If a NFL team were to start its season with a 0-2 record against second division teams, it would suggest a tough, tough season ahead, probably with the liklihood of not making the playoffs.
However, and here is the rub, one game in the NFL approximates 10 games in the MLB with the huge number of extra games played by the Braves in this case. So it’s far easier to say ‘chill’ and not get too exercised over a couple of losses early on in MLB whereas, in the NFL, it would be the early warning bell of failure ringing loud and clear.
I get that. That said, I’m concerned at this early stage because of the following:
*Poor fundamentals. Base running, fielding, cutting off gap drives, and mental errors in general.
All the above can quickly be explained away with statements on the order of: “It’s only two games” or “It’s a long season and way too early for concern”.
Folks, I’m probably using two different sports and two sports that have little similarity to MLB to make my final point, but if I’m a NFL coach or Fighter manager and seeing by comparison what I’ve seen out of the Braves in their first two games, I’m worried.
Then again, it’s only………(you decide)
By Bravesfan79
April 2, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
24-12 yes DOB that was our record before our starting lineup started resembling a AA team (no i wont even give it AAA credit) Its no wonder we went back to .500 pretty fast after chipper got banged up because our starting lineup featured Orr, Woodcrap, Wilson/Thorman, and Andrew hitting 4th. And as i stated many many times last year, you add Escobar over woodcrap last spring training…and we make the playoffs!
Instead we kept sending woodcrap and thorman in crucial pinchhitt situations all year…and it killed us!
Even if we start the year 0-10 i have 10 times more faith in our bench now than i did this time last year.
I wish wed get a speedster for the bench. The guy dosent even gotta know how to catch a ball or hit. Just someone we can stick on 1st base with 2 outs in a 9th, and know that he can steal 2nd, and then get home on a hit. Either that or another good bat for the bench.
I see no point in having a corky miller on the team thats a “defensive specialist”, that only happens to play Defense when its a blowout, and yet hits in crucial pinchitt situations like the final out of monday nights game.
I dunno about anyone else…but i was wishing it was Javy up there in that situation Monday night instead of corky!
By Marc
April 2, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
The bullpen didn’t cost Hudson a win. He left after the 7th behind 2-1. The rally in the 9th gave him a no decision. It didn’t matter what the bullpen did after that.
By Tomahawkin' Again (Like it's 1995)
April 2, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
We Want Leo!
By NRBQ
April 2, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
Moby Grape
Hey, Grandma!
I (for one) really appreciate your blog handle.
Still have the first-press vinyl copy of their debut album.
Did you know they sold the rights to that album for $500 up front?
Tragic.
By Josh H
April 2, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/gameflash/2008/04/02/20096_recap.html
Talk about low-sample sizes and aberrations happening in the first two games of the season, Detroit’s vaunted lineup combined for three hits in a 4-0 loss to the Royals.
“Combined” is the wrong word, as all 3 hits were singles by some guy named Edgar Renteria… :)
By woogidy
April 2, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
Bravesfan79, Did you realize the Braves had scored 11 runs at that point? I don’t think the plan was to lose and score 11 runs. Bobby took defense because he thought the pitching was better than it has been so far. Corky was last on the bench because Pena had already been used. He was the last guy Bobby wanted to use in the offense, but had no choice. Classify Corky as a back up catcher who can also be used as an emergency pinch hitter.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
April 2, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
I have to admit that the entire “defensive specialist” reason for a backup catcher is lost on me. Why is it so important to have a defensive minded backup catcher when that catcher is only going to play once a week if that. Now, while I would have preferred to have Javy up the other night his defense during the spring was atrocious. That is why I called for B. Pena to be the backup catcher with Borchard making the team. Gotay is a fine player but had that been Borchard up Monday night the chances of a ball getting jacked out of the yard would have been greatly improved!
By ncscoots
April 2, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
Who is the leader of this team and why is he not getting in the face of those making those blunders?
And how do you know that the “leader” is not doing so? Because he doesn’t show up a teammate on the field, or level a blistering public diatribe at one?
That isn’t leadership, though there are many fans who revel in the leadership-by-newspaper-quote philosophy, who deride the lack of rah-rah as a character fault.
Give me the guy who handles it in the clubhouse, treats me like a man, and then expects me to act like one. That’s the guy you’re proud to play with.
The other kind? That’s the guy you run through a wall for, all right…as long as he stays on the other side, that is.
By Greg in TN
April 2, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Afternoon everyone…
Game number three tonight just south of Ralph David Abernathy and Jair Jurrjens takes the hill for his first Atlanta start. Jurrjens can have the same amount of success that he had in the spring and help the Braves end the opening season slide as long as he keeps the ball down and out of Xavier Nady’s happy zone. Braves pitchers didn’t do a very good job of that Monday night much to the consternation of Braves Nation.
I am optimistic that we’ll see better defense tonight. We’ll need to with Jurrjens habits of pitching to contact. We have several of those type pitchers on the roster, so the quicker we get the leather in mid-season form, the better.
Moises Alou admitted the other day that he would not have caught the ball on the fateful night in October 2003 when he wrestled for a foul ball with Steve Bartman at Wrigley Field. Too bad he didn’t realize this when he was acting like a four-year old throwing a tantrum immediately afterwards. The Cubs would go on to hand the series over to the Marlins and Alou would also see another lead slip away in September of last year. Uhh, Steve, if Moises wants to apologize to you personally, that’s fine, but I would recommend you passing on a handshake.
Phil Niekro’s birthday was yesterday, so happy belated birthday to Knucksie.
By Thrillhouse44
April 2, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
CutMan, …like being down after one quarter of a football game. I’ve never thrown in the towel (note the boxing reference) after a quarter of watching the Redskins. And I’m not hitting the panic button after two games in a 162 game baseball season.
I didn’t get to see Monday’s game, so I didn’t see any lack of intensity in the home opener. The guys came back to score 5 in the ninth. Seems like they had plenty of drive in them.
Don’t sweat, man. It’s too early to bring in the young, backup quarterback and focus on 2009.
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
i heard laroche couldnt agree on a extension with pirates.. should’nt braves go after since TEX will leave for more money…..dude we agreed to not accept a 140m contract from texas..HELLO!
By Shamus Thacker
April 2, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
I wholeheartedly agree that Tex will have a fine year, but it’s not ALL about Tex. The TEAM, called the BRAVES, is suffering because of his lack of preparation for the early season. If he chooses to wait for the beginning of the season to find his swing, he should just skip spring training altogether.
Hope it’s not too late when HIS spring training is completed and he’s found his groove…. The Braves [you know, the TEAM] hope so too.
Guess he’s just not making enough money…
By BravesFanInRockies
April 2, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
RE: Corky and defensive specialists,
I think it’s a philosophical matter with Bobby and most managers, too. When they rest their regular catcher, they want the backup to focus on handling pitchers and throwing out runners. They don’t want their pitching to suffer too much from poor defense when the regular catcher is out. Offense is secondary.
I don’t really agree with it. I’d rather have a backup catcher with some pop, just so you’re not surrendering four or five at-bats every game your regular isn’t behind the dish. There aren’t too many of those bench players around, I suppose, because if you can hit a lot and catch a little you’ll play every day, or at least more than a couple times a week.
Still, I think of Mike Piazza the past couple years or Robert Fick or Matthew LeCroy as players who can catch if they must play in the field but who wouldn’t hurt you at the plate. Pena might be the type as well. Braves haven’t kept those guys around very often.
By THB
April 2, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
Hey guys, no need to worry about the first 2 games! The NY Giants lost their first 2 games and won the super bowl, and that’s out of 16 games.
By woobangers
April 2, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
Hold up, wait a minute. Guys its still early in the season. The Braves will right this ship. However, we probably need to have an eye on a closer. I’m not completely sold on what we have presently. One of the keys to this season will be how well the pitching holds up. The Mets clearly upgraded their staff of pitchers. The Braves…(Unknown)
NEED A DATE IN ATLANTA,we can help
By KC
April 2, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
Just now heard that Pedro pulled a hammy.
Yeah… he’s MUCH more reliable than 40 year-old John Smoltz. Isn’t that the argument people seem to use to assert that the tandem of Santana/Pedro is better than Smoltz/Hudson duo?
By OrlandoFan
April 2, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
Robert (CIB): I share your sentiments about Miller and expressed those several times in Spring Training. Versatility is key when you only have 5 guys, unless one of them is Manny Mota or somebody.
DOB: Confirmed the Friday Night Lights is returning next season. Was published on OrlandoSentinel.com a few days ago. Now I wish they would get back to teh current season. DVD for second season is supposed to be out soon.
By beachcomber
April 2, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
Love the baseball but I’m just too damned old for the music segments.
My main man Lew was talking about a group called Velvet Revolver. The only Velvet I remember is Virgil Johnson and the Velvets (Tonight Could Be The Night).
Actually I enjoy the music segments when I understand them - tough for an old former DJ whose first “platter” on the radio was Surf City.
Maybe we can start a sub-culture this season of old farts who remember pre-Beatles rock.
Keep up the good work DOB.
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
THIS JUST IN: Kelly’s out of the lineup, Prado playing second and leading off.
Probably only a day or two, according to Cox, and Kelly can pinch-hit. Haven’t talked to Kelly yet; he said he’d come out to talk after BP….
Oh, and Spiezio hit a home run off Chuck James in the sim-game conditions yesterday at Rome. Spiezio had a bunch of at-bats (Bobby thought it was 14, but not sure of that).
Chuck felt good, but didn’ have good command. He’ll come off DL on Sunday and start out at Richmond.
By McFann
April 2, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
Heap (that nickname cracks me up, btw!) FrenchiesMaid
Me, too…if you leave out the last part of it…
Late-game clutch hits? Does the eighth inning of a 2-1 (one run) game count? ‘Cause if it does, then I’ve got a good one for ya:
OK, it’s the bottom of the seventh in Milwaukee: there’s a man on third, and two outs—the game is tied 1-1. Tim Hudson throws the next pitch and it gets by McCann. The run is in. Next guy gets out, but Brian and Timmy are livid.
So here we go to the top of the eighth. Diaz, pinch-hitting for Hudson, leads off with an out. Then Johnson walks, Willie Harris walks, and Renteria singles. The bases are loaded now for the man who let that ball get by.
He takes ball one. The next pitch is down the middle, and he drives it to left-center field. It goes toward the gap—it’s “in the gap, all the way to the wall! Kelly Johnson scores! Willie Harris scores!” Edgar Renteria comes all the way around to score, and McCann—who thought he’d caused a loss—turns out to be the hero.
The Braves went on to score 7 runs in the inning. The date was May 30, 2007—the best game of the year, IMHO.
(The quote was from Pete Van Wieren.)
By bravesfan
April 2, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
DOB is Kelly Johnson playing tonight?
By Billy Walsh
April 2, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
Sorry DOB, but the best show on the tub is entourage…cant wait til the boys are back this summer. In more disturbing news…Mariah Carey just passed THE KING for the most number 1 hits (18). The king is rolling in his grave. Oh the humanity!!!!
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this
Marc, good point about Hudson leaving behind 2-1. You’re right. (But thanks for ruining my easy assertion … come on, man. facts sometimes screw things up.)
By Flee Hound
April 2, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
With that ageing starting pitching staff and unreliable relief pitching the braves will be lucky to finish third.
By Joshhh
April 2, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this
Far better than The White Stripes??? No way Dave, absolutely not.
Go see The White Stripes live, it’ll change your mind.
By DCbrave
April 2, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this
*By Roman Gal April 2, 2008 1:21 PM |
The bullpen didn’t cost Hudson a win. He was in line for the loss until the ninth inning, silly.*
Roman Gal ruined your easy assertion hours earlier, DOB, right after your blog came up.
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this
Daybed, so you’re saying it’s “give me some” every time I have it as “give me the sound?” Could be, I’m just asking to make sure that’s what you’re saying. If so I’ll check with someone else I know who’s good at discerning lyrics.
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
Daybed, nevermind my question: Just found out you’re correct about “give me some.” Thanks, man. Change made.
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this
Joshh, you go see the Black Keys live, it’ll change yours.
By rlpmetro
April 2, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this
Does anyone know what channel Peachtree TV HD is on Direct TV or is that broadcast HD because it doesnt look like it and it isnt listed as HD? Jeff
Not sure if any one responded to this yet, Jeff, but Peachtree TV isn’t offered in HD yet on DirecTV. It sounded like mid to late April before they are broadcasting in High Def from what I was told.
By TrueBlueBravesFan
April 2, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this
How is anyone hitting a home run off of Chuck James any differnet than last year. I would just say it shows that Spezio isn’t a total dud,
By mr baseball
April 2, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this
Phillies just waived Helms. He won’t solve all the Braves’ bench problems, but he would definitely provide a quality backup at 1B & 3B + giving the team a decent pinch-hitter. If the Braves are going to bring back a washed-up ex-Brave like Javy, why not one that can actually still produce a little.
By Cooper S
April 2, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this
DOB- Glad to see the “Man-Sized Wreath” lyrics. That song, along with Mr. Richards and Horse to Water are some of my favorites on the album. Really solid release from the Athens boys.
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this
The Braves have a wonderful team, why is everyone panicking? the only worry would be not extending TEX. TEX was 0 for 6 and braves scored 11 runs . hahahahahah
By Yars
April 2, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this
Who the hell listens to Mariah Carey anyway? Nothing but generic sounding pop/r&b crap. Top 40 radio is garbage. Too many people only care what is popular & dominating the charts it is becoming really pathetic. Can people not think for themselves anymore? Only liking what is popular, only caring about what is trendy, only repeating what you hear on cable news, ect….Man I could go on & on but I think I made my point.
By Eric from MO
April 2, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
Everybody needs to chill with Tex’s spring trainging. It is ridiculous. He was conditioning so he wont be worn out by mid August. It wasnt like he wasnt doing anything, he was just more focused on being ready for the long haul of a baseball season. Baseball season is a marathon not a sprint. Besides not like he hasnt helped the Braves. He did score the tying run in the ninth on a double that just missed going out.
By brent a.
April 2, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
So far this blog we’ve heard about games from May 13 and May 30 last season, both of which occurred during series in which the Braves lost key players (Chipper and Gonzo).
I remember that Milwaukee series, very well, too. Back in the good old days when you could travel to Texas to see the in-laws and still watch the Braves on cable. ;-)
By Rob U
April 2, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this
How come Gotay isnt getting a look? Does Bobby not feel confident with him or something. He has shown great plate disipline in my opinion.
By Eric from MO
April 2, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this
If Wes Helms really was just waived and the Braves have a chance at him and dont get him, then they are morons. He is better than any of our infielders and he would give us an actual back-up 1stbaseman and someone to play 3rd when Chipper goes on the DL.
By David-ATL14
April 2, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this
The above info is correct. Peachtree games in Hi-DEF late April.
While on TV subjects.
FNL has indeed been renewed but it’s a joint deal between NBC and DirecTV.
They will share in the cost associated with the series.
DirecTV will get the first crack at the new episodes. After they are shown first on DirecTV they will make their way onto NBC.
Still good news for all us FNL fans.
On a baseball Wes Helms(aka goofy grape) has been released by the Phillies.
Hopefully Wren can resit the thought of picking him up.
He’s not an improvement.
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this
Rob U, how come Gotay isn’t “getting a look” where? They’ve played two games, and Prado is starting in place of Kelly, the first different player to be in the lineup to date. Where do you want Gotay getting a look, at 3B? At SS? Maybe 1B?
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this
Eric and mr. baseball: regarding Helms and backup corner infield “need” — that’s why they signed Spiezio. Not saying they won’t have any interest in Helms, just saying it’s not as much a need as it was three days ago.
By Rob U
April 2, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this
At 2nd base vs. Lefties, he is a switch hitter, and KJ struggles against lefties. What is the point of picking him up if he’s not better than Prado?
By Goodoleboy58
April 2, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this
mlb.tv user’s i know i’ve asked a few questions about it before but I’ve heard mixed reviews.
if I get gameday audio can I listen to archived games or can you only listen live?
Also can you download and listen later without being connected to the internet or is it only streaming?
Thanks for yalls help I’m trying to get my Braves fix here in the desert but I’m torn lol..
By Serge
April 2, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this
Are the Braves interested in goofy grape?
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this
gotay is doing his job his title is the bench player
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this
im not sure if boyer can handle a full season. he might get hit..hit hard
By David-ATL14
April 2, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this
Rob U the point was/is that he(Gotay) is a nice bat for the bench.Nothing more nothing less.
Gotay also struggles against lefties as he’s a much better hitter from the left side and facing righties.
Back to the FNL fans which are quite a few on the Crusading one’s blog.
A little more info.
Season 3 of FNL will be available for viewing in October 08 via DirecTV. They will run multiple times on DirecTV exclusively.
These episodes will then make their way to NBC in Fevruary 09.
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
Prado could suprise you! i will be his new agent
By Beach Dawg
April 2, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this
SOB (Sam Old Braves), no Bull in the Pen !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By JC FROM UT
April 2, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this
When Infante returns can Gotay be sent down or will he have to go through waivers first?
By TJ
April 2, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this
Kelly Johnson, 2007 vs. LHP:
.272/.366/.405/.771
Rueben Gotay, 2007, vs LHP:
.194/.286/.222/.508
I don’t see any urgency to get that .222 slugging percentage into the game against lefties.
By Roman Gal
April 2, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this
Scott Boras I had no idea you were such a Braves fan.
DCbrave Thanks. I’m glad to know my post wasn’t in vain.
By brewdawg
April 2, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this
No L O S T fans on here? Nothing against the other shows - The Wire, The Shield, Rescue Me, FNL - as Iadmittedly need to add them to my movie queue to make a good judgement on them), but I’ve never been as enthralled with a show as I’ve been since LOST’s inception. All of matter of opinion I guess. I feel the first win coming tonight, but I’m not so sure jjj has a great start to get it for us. Too much nerves starting for his boyhood team.
By McFann
April 2, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this
Hey guys, watch this!
It’s hi-LARRY-ous!!
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
brewdawg: i am rooting for braves because Teixeira will bring me money.Every RBI counts!…ooo im making my 50 page profile as we speak! go braves
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
roman gal: i am rooting for braves because Teixeira will bring me money.Every RBI counts!…ooo im making my 50 page profile as we speak! go braves
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this
THX MCFANN that was very funny..man that guy never changes. TEX for mvp believe
By Roman Gal
April 2, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this
Ok Scotty, good to know. For a minute there I actually thought you cared about something other than yourself.
By Flee Hound
April 2, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
If we have to watch a loser let it be the Falcons they look better at it.
By Billsnv
April 2, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
Go Braves! Win one for the bloggers!
By DonCoburleone
April 2, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
DOB I agree with your early season worry about this bullpen… Soriano I do not worry about (other than the occasional giving-up-the-long-ball slump). I don’t want to worry about Moylan either based on the fact that he was so dominant last year, but maybe we should worry about him a little? I mean, lets face it, the guy is only in his 2nd big league season and he threw a TON of innings last year. Then there is Acosta, who did look good in limited action last season, but again, very inexperienced. Plus, he has always walked a TON of guys throughout his minor league career (5.32BB’s per 9IP - or 259 in 446IP’s) and in limited action in the majors last year (14BB’s in 23innings). And looking at his minor league career, he really was downright terrible until 2006 - wonder what happened that year?
Then the rest: Boyer - inexperienced also, plus a Tommy John survivor, does he have the same stuff he did before the surgery? And he too struggled with control at Richmond last season - 50BB’s in 73 innings.
Ohman - Should be good as a LOOGY, but as someone who has watched alot of Cubs game the last few years, the guy instills little confidence in me; he seems to get rattled easily.
Resop - At the age of 25, already a “journeyman reliever”. This is his 3rd team in 3 years and despite pretty good minor league numbers he’s struggled in the majors… Seems to me (from looking at his stats) that he just can’t make that leap from AAA to the bigs. His strikeouts drop, while his walks, hits, and Homers all go up… Still, he’s only 25 so I think he could eventually be solid - but we can’t say for sure!
BOTTOM LINE, HANG ON GUYS, IT COULD BE A BUMPY BULLPEN RIDE IN 2008!
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
Hampton pitching tomorrow night. It’s been a long time, so in case everyone’s forgotten how good Hampton was before his elbow injuries, consider this:
He was 17-6 with a 2.99 ERA in 30 starts from May 18, 2004, the night he threw a complete game but lost against Randy Johnson’s perfect game, until May 14, 2005, when he left a game at Los Angeles with a “strained left forearm.” (That was the beginning of the end, regarding his elbow)
By the way, against Pittsburgh he’s 10-3 with a 2.48 ERA in 16 starts, including 6-0 with a 1.53 ERA in six this century (last faced them in ‘03).
OK, now to Jurrjens, who’s just recorded his first out on a 4-3 groundout to start the game…
By TrboDawg
April 2, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this
Strike ONE, that’s what I like to see!
By Gamecock Brave
April 2, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
Oh my goodness, Jair’s change is DIRTY! i love watchin this guy pitch.
By N8
April 2, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
Triple-J with the NASTY change-up.
Nothing to b!tch about yet.
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this
Jair looked better than tim and glavine in his 1st……great kid
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this
Prado hits a triple deep rF-CF…….long one.
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this
Chipper drives in prado after yunel kkk, with a liner hard one over the middle.
By Billsnv
April 2, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this
Way to go Chipper!
By yunel is the man
April 2, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this
prado has a triple. and scored
By McFann
April 2, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this
You’re welcome, uh…Scott.
(BTW—Your MVP just GIDP.)
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this
prado he can hit…ya im excited to see hampton..he can and did go thru long winning streaks in his history he also can suprise…
By DP
April 2, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this
Ouch!
Is it in the contract that the number 4 hitter for Atlanta has to hit into a certain amount of DPs? It has been a trend for a while now.
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this
i love jair jurrjens
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this
3 KKK for jair in 1 and 2/3
By Murphy
April 2, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this
still cannot watch the game in Charlotte…I may have to move back to Atlanta
By ROCHIE
April 2, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
get laroche as a backup if we lose tex
By Deep Throat
April 2, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
Why is Prado starting? Kelly’s knee still hurt?
Seems a little early for Bobby to be doing this platoon garbage again.
By yunel is the man
April 2, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this
WHERE ARE ALL THE PRADO HATERS, MAN YALL ARE QUIT. JJ IS LOOKING GOOD,,, (REAL) GOOD
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
frenchy with a single…..to RF that is…….beautiful AB.
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
Brian battled for about 7 minutes and finally walked…… runners at 1st and 2b
By N8
April 2, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this
OK. I’ve found something to gripe about. (big shock).
How come DOB didn’t tell all of us about the costume party at the park tonight? And if there isn’t a costume party at the Ted, why are all those Braves fans disguised as EMPTY SEATS??
Call me a b!tcher and a moaner, but I tune in every night. If I lived in Atlanta, I’d find a way to scrounge up enough money to buy 81 tickets for a damn baseball game.
For crying out loud, I dumped 3500 bucks for 4 season ticket to the damn NBA D-League team here in Bismarck for cryin out loud.
Unbelievable.
By TJ
April 2, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this
Those are fans. Jair’s Chairs.
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this
Jair kind of reminds me of Pascual Perez
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
braves really have some great player Tex=mvp..chipper=consistent allstar.frenchy=huge asset in all areasyunel=amazing skills with a added hype mccann= among top catchers with huge upsidek.johnson=solid skills around.diaz=hitting machine..kotsay=servicable.huddy=cy winner period jurrjens=looks solid hampton=huge suprise.prado=solid help in many areas.smoltz=expected contender.so only hole is bullpen. but there better than this..NO WONDER some espn and other experts predict braves. any disagreements??
By Interested Observer
April 2, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
Pedro’s out 4-6 weeks.
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
Good thing KJ is not playing as the pirates grounded to 2b with the tying run at 2b to end the inning.
Jair has 4K after 3 IP
By Pete H.
April 2, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this
I thinks Zsa-Zsa can start looking for a permanent place in Atlanta. Cancel that 1-bedroom in Richmond, buddy.
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this
This is just in. Pedro has a Strained hamstring. Placed on DL. Out for at least 4 to 6 weeks. Plus Randolph says it doesnt looks good.
By ncgary
April 2, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this
its a shame some one didnt have the good sense around the first of spring training to go out and buy an insurance arm, one easily expendable at trade deadline if gonzalez comes back sharp, coulda shoulda woulda , d smith lil bridge and gorkys would have got a 6 million dollar closer
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this
Prado took a walk. he is 1-1 with a triple and a walk……there you go martin
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this
Deep Throat, nothing to do with a platoon. He aggravated his right knee Monday night. Plenty has been written about that already, including a separate note about him in the original post today.
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
Prado got to 3B on a hit and run…..yunel hits it to RF. This is the 3rd H&R i have seen cox play las 3 years.
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this
Chipper has 6 RBI in 2+ games…..
By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this
ZOMG TEX was a mistake!!!!
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this
That’s six RBI for Hoss. Not a bad start…
N8, not surprising that the second game of the home schedule, a Wednesday night game against the Pirates, would be a small turnout, between a big crowd for Monday’s home opener and the highly anticipated weekend series with the Mets.
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this
SP has been as good as advertised…… im pleased even with glavines outing…… even 0-2 i feel pretty good about our braves………. GGGOOOOOOOO BRAVESSSSSSS
By Murphy
April 2, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
kid is pitching like a champ so far!
By Gamecock Brave
April 2, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
How good does this kid look. Not only does his stuff look good but he is workin the hitters like he’s been up here for years.
By Gamecock Brave
April 2, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
Anyone else smokin a cigar watchin the game? Romeo y Julieta DOB fav cigars?
By yunel is the man
April 2, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this
HEY YALL PRADO HATERS, I SAW A BRAD PUT A MEESAGE ON HERE THE OTHER NIGHT THAT SAID A PLATOON BY JUNE WITH KJ. I MIGHT GO ON A LIMB AND SAY MAY
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this
Gotta like how Jair doesn’t get flustered, even with a couple of runners on base. Just keeps doing his thing, pitching to contact, letting the defense work behind him. That’s why the fellas love playing behind him, they’re not going to be on their heels.
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this
Meanwhile, in Fla, Perez is doing the same number as Jair. Very good performance through 3.
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
Nats 0
Phi 0
6th inning
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
Yeah, I think this Matty Diaz might be good enough to play every day…
By Goodoleboy58
April 2, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this
atta boy Matty!!
By flabrave
April 2, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this
got the mlb package tonight. sweet. go diaz.
By Tomahawkin' Again (Like it's 1995)
April 2, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
Have we finally found a young gun starter to begin the transition from the over 40 crowd? JJ looks fanastic, Diaz goes deep, Pedro’s out for the next 4-6 weeks…all’s well in Braves Nation
By McFann
April 2, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
OK, Matt comes up to bat, and my brother says, “C’mon, Matt! Hit one out!”
Next pitch, KAPOW!!
Great job, Matty!!
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this
Anybody has an idea about weekends pitching matchups?
By Pete H.
April 2, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
Matt Diaz might make a serviceable left fielder if we could find a good lefty bat to platoon with him.
Note: This is a joke. I realize irony doesn’t come across well anywhere on the Internets and especially here, so please read this disclaimer in its entirety.
By flabrave
April 2, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
kid really looks good.
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this
that fifth inning was a 7-pitch inning for Jurrjens
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this
Jair needed 7 pitches in the 5th. Wow. Hope its not only because its the pirates.
By yunel is the man
April 2, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this
I SAY JJ WILL PITHCH 8 AND MOYLAN IN FOR THE CLOSE
By chuckaluck
April 2, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this
Edgar is a heck of a player. That said, what were the Tigers thinking?
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this
Just talking to a Pirates writer about how since-fired Pittsburgh GM Dave Littlefield turned down a trade last July 31 thaqt would have sent Jack Wilson to Detroit for Jurrjens (and a lesser piece).
By joebrave
April 2, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this
Jurrjen,looks like a Surgeon!!!
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this
Nats 1
Phi 0
7th inning
By Pete H.
April 2, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
Does Tex have any options left? We could still call up Thorman…
Note: This is a joke. Irony…Internets…blahblahblah
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
yunel is the man: jurrjens surely isn’t going to pitch eight. he’s already thrown more than 80 pitches and isn’t through six innings yet. i’d be a little surprised if they let him throw 100 in his first start.
By Tomahawkin
April 2, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this
Triple J looks Good, lets blow these guys out so that our blow-pen won’t have a chance to blow it…Also we are gonna need all the arms rested for this weekend…
By Overlord
April 2, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
Here we go again……if Nady is killing us, why dont they walk him with the base open? instead he gets a hit and drives in 2
By brewdawg
April 2, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
Nady has the early lead for “Brave Killer Of The Year” award
By jimmac
April 2, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
Long time, first time—-okay, let’s give a starter a chance to win - come on, Wil
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
Jurrjens got a standing ovation as he walked off the field and hi-fived teammates waiting at the top step of the dugout.
By TJ
April 2, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
Boy, when he lost it, he lost it. But a great first start for Jair.
DOB, that’s incredible about the Pirates and Tigers. Guess that’s what has made the Pirates the powerhouse they’ve been for the last decade or so. If that’d happened, maybe Edgar would still be here, or who knows who we’d have traded him for.
By jimmac
April 2, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
I really thought Chipper was throwing the bat
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
Pretty impressive for Hoss to concentrate, field that ball and throw to second to start a double play as the broken bat is literally hitting him in the leg….
By Tomahawkin
April 2, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
Cliff Floyd, Carlos Delgado, Oliver Perez, Now Xavier Nady joing the effing list of (Past/Present/Current Mets) known as NOTORIOUS Braves Killers…Cheese-Whiz…!
By woodog
April 2, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
Impressive outing for Jair. This should build his confidence. Bennett saves the day and the infield comes up with a timely double-play. I think we can pull this one out.
NEED A DATE IN ATLANTA,we can help
By Lew
April 2, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
KAPOW? Oh!!! The Humanity, Batman.
By bigchiefrg
April 2, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this
Nice turn by Prado…I dont think Hubby himself could have made that turn…
Hopefully those Gold Glove voters were watching chipper
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this
Hey, and the broken bat was Jose Bautista’s — the same guy Chipper flipped over last year at Pittsburgh, when he hurt his hands.
By yunel is the man
April 2, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this
DOB BEFORE THIS INNING IF HE WOULD HAVE PITCHED A 8-10 IN THE 7TH DONT U THINK HE WOULD HAVE WENT 8 INNINGS TO SEE WHAT HAPPENED? NICE DOUBLE PLAY LARRY AND PRADO
By BayAreaSteve
April 2, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
Mr. Lew,
You have this one on Extra Innings?
By Risingstar
April 2, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
why in the * is bc taking jeff out of the game, he is going to burn the bp again
By jimmac
April 2, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
Wat to get back on the horse, Manny!
By Josh from Columbus
April 2, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this
BULLPEN IS ON POINT TONIGHT!
By chase
April 2, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
If JJ pitches like this all season and the rest of the pitching staff pitches the way they have for their long-successful careers…THIS TEAM WILL DO VERY…VERY WELL!
By KyBrave
April 2, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
DOB When Smoltz is ready to come off the DL, are the Braves leaning towards dropping one of the catchers down or dropping a reliever?
By Lew
April 2, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this
Steve-Absolutely. Got it in HD. They’ve had both of the non ESPN games on Extra Innings and they’re scheduled to be on at least through next Tuesday that I’m aware of.
By Philliesuk
April 2, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
It’s way, way early in the season, but Chipper is looking like an MVP already, both at the plate and in the field. When Tex steps it up and plays his game, it’s gonna get nasty.
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
ya manny needed that more than any one else…nice inning
By Goodoleboy58
April 2, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
is everyone holding their breaths for hampton’s debut tomorrow? i know i am i wish him the best of luck… God know’s its about time he gets some good luck
By McFann
April 2, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
Heh heh…Sorry about the “Kapow”, Lew. It shouldn’t happen again.
By Risingstar
April 2, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
Don’t know why bc is taking a reliever out of the game, when he throw only 5 pitches, and then replacing the next one by a pinch hitter, JB could keep going thru the 7th and then pinch hit for him
the arms from bp will be tired to throw 30-40 pitches warming up and then only 10 on ball game
By bigchiefrg
April 2, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
Yates is still completely filthy…Too bad he has no consistency
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
boy i guess braves coulda used yates, he looks good. DOB what u think about letting yates go? i know he struggled spring
By Efrim
April 2, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
Wow. Yates has looked pretty damn good this series. But that is Tyler, good one day, bad the next.
Hopefully Moylan and Soriano can close this one out.
By Andy
April 2, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
Why in the world do we get Xavier Nady ANYTHING to hit?????????
By BayAreaSteve
April 2, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Lew.
Comcast out here only has 10 MLB extra inning channels, and the Braves are on “Game 12,” so no TV for me, just the blog.
And, no HD, ever. I’m a little hesitant to spend the $160.
By the way, I thought both the drawing and the painting were excellent. I truly couldn’t see one was better than another.
By Josh from Columbus
April 2, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this
KyBrave,
If I had to guess, I would say that Gregor Blanco will probably get sent down and not one of the catchers. Corky Miller will be our #2 and Brayan Pena is out of options. We are probably keeping him up with the hopes of trading him so that we don’t have to place him on waivers, but I could be wrong.
DOB,
KyBrave got me thinking though, what is the status of Scott Thorman?
By Efrim
April 2, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
I know Ring struck out Laroche the other night, but I wouldn’t let Rochy get another look at him…..
By Tomahawkin
April 2, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this
Chipper looked like an MVP All of last year, Problem is that he didn’t play over 150 games…
By chase
April 2, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
That pitch from MOYLAN to BAY was STRIKE 3 ALL DAY…Right down the middle!!!!!!!!
Ump missed that one BADDDDDDD
By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
Why take out the ground ball specialist?
By yunel is the man
April 2, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
WOW MOYLAN GETS XXXXXED ON SOME CALLS HOW MUCH BETTER COULD IT GET
By Bravesfan79
April 2, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
I dont see how Cox could possibly drop a reliever with the # of bullpen changes he makes every game. I say its the defensive specialist Corky to go…
By Efrim
April 2, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
Well I was wrong about Ring, now Nady, the Brave killer….
By Shamus Thacker
April 2, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
JJ was GREAT!
Tex needs a few more at bats to get going. He chose to not worry about his hitting this spring, but shoot, that’s OK, he can use this first month for spring training. If we miss the playoffs due to early season losses, hey, I understand; he doesn’t make enough to lift weights during the off-season, then concentrate on his swing during spring training. Must have taken on a second job to get by or sumpthin… But I’m not complainin’, I’m underpaid too….
By woogidy
April 2, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
Moylan fooled the umpire tonight. He was filthy.
By A-ville Ranger
April 2, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
I just downloaded ‘Accelerate’ I agree it’s one of their best.I especially like the three live from Athens cuts,’Horse to water’ ‘Living well is the best revenge’ (so true) and my favorite ‘Until the day is done’.This cd takes me back to some wonderful nights in Athens all those years ago.It’s not that far removed from ‘Murmur’really.
By TJ
April 2, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
I just don’t get using 5 relievers (and pulling your “setup” man to bring in a lefty specialist for one batter) before the 9th inning in a low-scoring game. If the Pirates tie this thing (God forbid) we’re not in very good shape for extras.
No disrespect meant, and I hope it works out. Just don’t get it.
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this
Resop gets ahead of Nady 0-2 on 98-mph fastballs he couldn’t catch up with (fouled ‘em off), then walks him on the next four pitches including three breaking balls in the dirt.
By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this
Here we go kids.
By William
April 2, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
Do we every have a easy game????
By Efrim
April 2, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
Where is Ohman to face Doumit?
By TJ
April 2, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
Braves can’t drop a position player. Can’t go with a 4 man bench, and no reserve outfielders. It’ll probably be Bennett.
By bigchiefrg
April 2, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
with the ability to hit triple digits why 50% curveballs?
Give him the heater Ricky!!!!
By Risingstar
April 2, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
**By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
Why take out the ground ball specialist?**
b’cause boby still have another 3 or 4 arms from the penn that want to rhrow every single game of the season
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Josh, you asked, “what is the status of Scott Thorman?” His status is, cleared waivers, no team wanted to claim him, and now he’s set to begin the season at Richmond. That’s his “status.”
By chase
April 2, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
This whole inning is still going because of that NON-STRIKE call by the UMP!
Should’ve been over already
By jimmac
April 2, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
Whew
By Efrim
April 2, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
Resop has a great fastball…..
but not much else. That breaking ball is average at best.
By Ben
April 2, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
where’s our freaking offense? another 1-run game, again against a team not known for its pitching. What a nerve-wracking beginning to the season!
By chase
April 2, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
Thank goodness RESOP got out of that…He was getting squeezed too
By Murphy
April 2, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
Lordy Lordy…another hand ringer and it is only the 3rd game of the season!
By William
April 2, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
Ok, lets get some runs so we don’t nail bite in the 9th.
By Hawks Fan
April 2, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
HAWKS were down by 17, came back and won an amazing game. We’re playoff bound.You gotta believe…
By Risingstar
April 2, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
I propose to send Gotay, Miller and Blanco down to AAA and bring James, Morton and Carlyle so Boby is going to have plenty penn to finish the games
By yunel is the man
April 2, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
HEY Epinephrine, HOW YA LIKE THE LEAD OF MAN TONIGHT? JUST WANDERING…….
By Josh from Columbus
April 2, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
Thanks DOB. How ‘bout Yates throwin’ at Hoss? Haha. I am really looking forward to the Mets series this weekend. Smoltz / Santana on Sunday is going to be a great match-up.
By William
April 2, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
Now get off Tex’s back!!!
By jimmac
April 2, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
Ka-boom - way to be, Tex!
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
there u go!!!!!! my boy TEX JUST DID IT
By chase
April 2, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
That helps!!! Way to go TEX!!!
By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
I’m telling you, every time DOB writes a column about Tex.
By bfan54
April 2, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
Nolie (2:15),
Can you help me find a Billy Joe Shaver song about with a line about “a diamond in the rough”. In 1977 I did a successful pro-bono legal appearance before the Pasco FL county commission and stopped a Disney Corp 6600 home development from being approved in a water-starved county. My clients were some upscale hippies who crafted(among other things) stained glass windows. The day before the hearing we did some snorkeling in a crystal clear (Florida? - I must have been seriously stoned!) pond, and the music in their rural palace included a BJS song with that line. (I recall something about an album called “Old Five and Dimers Like Me”.
Anyhow can you (or anybody) help me with the song- it’ll help bring back the music to the memory.
By Goodoleboy58
April 2, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
there ya go TEX
By mets fan in atlanta
April 2, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
Update-while bobby cox is determined to use Moylan and the rest of the bullpen for 162 games this season, Oliver Perez and the Mets are cruising 11-0.
By Josh from Columbus
April 2, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
ATTA BABE TEX!
By SandyB
April 2, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
How prophetic, DOB….”Tex will be fine…..” Good call. Now, is there anyone else we need you to “jinx”?
By Efrim
April 2, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
Tex playin Insurance Man…..
By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
yunel is the man I’m glad you’re wandering, I hope you wander right off this blog, because you’re annoying. But since you asked, I like our utility man. I hope he continues to be a good one for the rest of the season.
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
all i know is if TEX gott out in that AB i would have gotten non stop calls on whats wrong with my client..now there will be silence
By blazerpunter
April 2, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Again DOB, it is your job to some how mention TEX struggling in each and every BLOG you write for the rest of the season. Everytime you have talked about him possibly struggling he RIPS!!
GO BRAVES!!
By Tomahawkin
April 2, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
Yea! Dats what I’m Talkin About Tex Get You Some…!We got this game in the bag now…Seal it up Blow-pen…
By William
April 2, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
Hey the bats woke up!!!!!!
By MEB
April 2, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
Bobby says… “Lets go Mark T.”
GO BRAVES!!!
By jimmac
April 2, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
Now, this inning is more like it
By Epinephrine
April 2, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
Hopefully Bobby rests Soriano so he’s primed up for the Mets series.
By Murphy
April 2, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
Ahh, this is the team I thought we would see all year!
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
DOB u did this during spring..showcase tex as the headlines and he hit a hr now today u chose TEX for the headline today and there u go…
By Goodoleboy58
April 2, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this
Did anyone see how bad Diaz looked on that first swing… he practically took a step before the swing then he comes right back and ropes a RBI single to center… that dude can just swing the bat lol
By Pete H.
April 2, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this
Did I say something about Tex? NO, Comrades, that is a filthy lie by the owners of the means of production. I never, ever suggested that we inquire into the number of options he had left, if any. And never, never, dear comrades, did I suggest bringing back the Canadian imperialist tool Thorman to replace him. Anyone who says different is a revisionist thug.
By HuffBraves
April 2, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this
DOB-
Every time you write a blog telling us to not worry about Tex, he hits a HR. Please write more blogs about how Tex is going to be ok.
By William
April 2, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this
I can’t remember where I saw it, but who ever said if McCann was racing a pregnant women he’d finish 3rd………that was freaking hilarious.
By Bravesfan79
April 2, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
TJ: Why drop Bennett?? hes exactly what the Braves need right now considering it seems none of our starters can go more than 5 or 6 innings anymore.
By Stephen
April 2, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
DOB: Are you not alarmed at the rate at which Bobby is peeling through these relievers?
By McFann
April 2, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
DOB has done it again!! Tex awoke with a homer!! And Matty’s come through, too! Oh yeah! This looks good!!
By TJ
April 2, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
Well said, Epi!
By Tomahawkin
April 2, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
4-run lead now thats what I’m talking about, those 1-run games drove my narrow a..s insane…
This game is in the win-column…
We just can’t overlook tomorrow’s game in anticipation of the Muts coming through the “A”…
By yunel is the man
April 2, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
WOW SANCHEZ NICE 1 THATS A WEB GEM SY YALL BUT A NICE PLAY IS A NICE PLAY
By William
April 2, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
By mets fan in atlanta How did it go last night???? How is Pedro doing by the way?
By MattyRoss
April 2, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
Just out of curiosity, anyone watching the game on MLB.tv having the audio for the broadcast continuing while the guys are on commercial and think no one can hear them?? Kind of entertaining…
By TJ
April 2, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
Bravesfan79, far as I know, he’s the only reliever (except Acosta) who has options. I agree, we need 9 or 10 men in the bullpen at the rate we’re going. But, I just can’t see us going with a 4 man bench and no 4th OF. Maybe I’m wrong.
Another possibility is that trade we’ve been expecting. Maybe Pena gets moved for a prospect or 2.
By woogidy
April 2, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
Ben, here they are.
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
yunel is soo o sick
By Efrim
April 2, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
YUNEL=STAR
By William
April 2, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
who was talking about cruising earlier?
By Goodoleboy58
April 2, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
thought Joe Simpson said that Escobar doesn’t hit for power lol… he raked that one
By chase
April 2, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
hey muts fan in atlanta i wouldn’t be churping too loud…we’ll see how you do with a ONE MAN PITCHING STAFF for at least 6 weeks!!!!!!
By scott boras
April 2, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
braves will win NL east …i have money on my table
By Shamus Thacker
April 2, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
Best crow I ever had!
Way’da go Tex!
Way’da go Bravos!
By Tomahawkin
April 2, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
OOOOHHHH Yunel…man that kid is raw, bout time we get a blow-out…Lovely!!!
Now this is the offense that we’re used too…lets save some for tomorrow….
By William
April 2, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
Ok. How about 3 quick outs and maybe everyone will stop mashing the panic button. I can’t believe all the discussion about roster moves that should be made after 3 games.
By Philliesuk
April 2, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
Let’s hear from all those panicking whiners now. I also would love to hear what Keith Law thinks of Yunel’s performance so far this year. And by the way, all of you who were so angry about the Renteria trade…looks pretty good at this point, especially considering we still have Gorkys waiting in the wings…
By Tomahawkin
April 2, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
William Where you saw that was in the vent…If you want funny check out the philly.com/phillies forum, they are mad as hell that they dropped the 1st 2 (especially 2nite since they got shutout by Tim Redding)…
By TJ
April 2, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
William, a roster move will be necessary when Smoltz comes off the dl.
By Ben
April 2, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
Hell of a win tonight. Now we can all relax! Do you all realize we’re averaging 2 homers per game?? Absolutely ridiculous pace we’re on, even if it’s only 3 games. And Yunel and Chip each have 6 rbis in 3 games! Not too shabby.
By TexasBrave
April 2, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
I realize Bobby wants to get that first win of the season, but to go through 6 pitchers tonight when they all pitched the last game is already pushing the envelope. Lets all hope that after tonights win that Bobby stops using so many relievers even in close games.
I also believe we need to let some of our guys go more than one inning. Bennett is going to be sent down and we are going to need guys that can effectively go more than one inning.
Good to get that first win out of the way. Go Braves!!
By mets fan in atlanta
April 2, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
We were counting on Pedro about as much as you all are counting on Mike Hampton, which means not very much. Pelfrey looked pretty good in spring training—beating out El Duque, who himself looked good in his two outings. Hernandez went on the DL for his toe, but he’ll be back now in time for the next time we need a 5th pitcher (sometime next week).
But if i were you, I would be worried about the fact that it now looks as if Chuck James pitches every game for you now. Are any of the starters going to throw more than 5 or 6 innings? Old man Smoltz???—hope he doesn’t break down.
By MEB
April 2, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
Well I’m glad we won one this year. I was afraid we were going to get skunked. Look out Nats the Braves are hot on your heels.
GO BRAVES!!!
By TennesseePaul
April 2, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
Well I didn’t get to watch this game, but I can tell just from the box score that Cox was out managed hands down. Not a doubt in my mind. Anyone who knows anything thing about baseball would be able to tell that he was out managed. Schooled.
Nice outing by the team today. Great way to bounce back. Now to keep up this pace and roll through the rest of the season.
If Yunel wasn’t playing in a division with MVP Rollins, Ramirez, and Reyes, it might be easy to see him rocket straight to the top. I’m sure he’ll get his spot light but this is a crowded division for short stops. Crowded league really. Love that boys range and cannon arm. It goes very nicely with his stellar bat.
GO BRAVES!!
By Murphy
April 2, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this
Nice win! DOB, next time let’s blog about Hampton pitching 200 innings and winning 18 games or so. DOB says it…and it is so!
By Pete H.
April 2, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
I personally think that Cuban kid at SS might be a fairly good player. Snicker.
By William
April 2, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
TJ…….really???
By Shamus Thacker
April 2, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
Escobar is a baseball prodigy.
As great as Ozzie Smith was, this kid could be a MJ type phenom.
By William
April 2, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
I like this kid Jurrjens. Seems like a great guy.
By JC from UT
April 2, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
DOB: If your the GM who gets sent down/relesed/traded to make room for Smoltz? I would think the easiest move would be to send Bennet down, but then there would be no long relief. Any chance Pena or Boyer or Resop get traded?
By JC from UT
April 2, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
DOB: If your the GM who gets sent down/relesed/traded to make room for Smoltz? I would think the easiest move would be to send Bennet down, but then there would be no long relief. Any chance Pena or Boyer or Resop get traded?
By Daybed Wagmoe
April 2, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
The caption under the headline, “Major Moment for Hampton”: * Former Cy Young winner returns to mound in regular season game for first time since May of 2005.*
So…which year was it that Hampton won the Cy Young?
By richbrave
April 2, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
DAVID O’BRIAN:
Since I’m blind here and this is my source for info, how did Prado do tonight? Do you have his line?
By TJ
April 2, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
Jurjenns in a postgame interview: “I walked a guy, and he scored.” His only walk of the night, and that was the only thing he was critical of himself about.
Great to see a pitcher who gets it.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
April 2, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
I guess people can come down off the ledge now. The Braves have won. They scored 21 runs in the last two games. Jurrjens looked really good tonight especially consdiering he is the #5 starter. Peter King might be right about Yunel Escobar and his prediction of him finishing #4 in the MVP race. Tex woke up. Diaz is Diaz. And, Martin Prado is a good player.
By yunel is the man
April 2, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
LOL Epinephrine IF JOHNSON WAS IN, IN THE 8TH IT WOULD HAVE BEEN 2-1 BUCKS BECAUSE KJ CANT GET ON BASE. FACE THE CHANGE YALL WANT SOME POP ON THE BENCH ( WITH A 2.40 AVG) BUT A THREAT WITH THE POP UP KJ ON THE BENCH. GOOD JOB GUYS LOOKED GREAT
By TJ
April 2, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
William, thought you were criticizing the discussion of whether to send a pitcher down, or a position player. If I misunderstood, sorry.
By Tomahawkin
April 2, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
Gotta give a Shoutout to Double-J (JerrJens)Its gonna be nice to see him build on his arm strength over the season, looks like the Renteria trade is looking good right now…
I like the statement D.O.B. stated that he Holds his own in pressure, gotta love that for a cat his age…
Hopefully the yankees will lose as well to cap it off…
By BobbyBraves
April 2, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
Not to rain on the Braves win tonight, but why am I reading comments about the Mets “one man rotation?”
Because Pedro is out for 4 weeks? Hate to get everyone down, but Pedro will be back (not a serious injury), and the Mets have better pitchers than him right now anyway. Oliver Perez was almost unhittable tonight, and he OWNS us. John Maine had 15 wins last year, and looked great this spring (so i heard).
Point is…they have the best pitcher in baseball, and a very good 2 and 3 (one of which we cant seem to beat), so lets not get too cocky with them having no pitching. Their 1-3 are very tough to beat.
By Daybed Wagmoe
April 2, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
mets fan in atl: “We were counting on Pedro about as much as you all are counting on Mike Hampton, which means not very much.”
Bull. That’s why Pedro is the #2 starter and Hampton is the #5 (who just happens to be pitching in the fourth game due to the schedule). Another reason why you’re very wrong: the Braves have stockpiled their starting pitching so that in case Hampton gets hurt, we’ve got Bennett, Chuck James, Jo-Jo Reyes, and Buddy Carlyle who can fill in for the #5 slot. Who’s going to fill the #2 slot — and if it’s Maine or Perez, who’s going to fill their slot?
Face it — you guys were counting on Pedro this year as much as the Braves were counting on Hampton in 2007, and that bit Atlanta in the a$$.
By andy-LA
April 2, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
I guess in the spirit of the bandwagon thats been playing for the past couple of days—-Oh my god—the braves are going to adv. 23 runs per 3 games—starters era going to be around 2.5 or so. The pen now has “turned the corner” and will be lights out—although the braves are going to adv 7 pitchers per game. Guys were winning the world series..or maybe we’ll have a pretty good idea about the team around the all star break—kinda like every other year. I’m just speaking to the alarmist who are like—“we’ve got dark clouds brewing…it’s already over” Great game tonight.
By Jared
April 2, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
Anyone see the Braves’ AJC front page?
“Major moment for Hampton
Former Cy Young winner returns to mound in regular season game for first time since May of 2005.”
http://www.ajc.com/braves/content/sports/braves/index.html
When did Mike Hampton win the Cy Young award?
By Pete H.
April 2, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
Nice win.
For Mutts fans, please find your own dang blog…you are tiresome.
I hear your No. 2 pitcher is out for 4-178 weeks. He and your first baseman and your LF and your whole bullpen can now audition for a HoverRound commercial. Go-go-go in my HoverRound.
Too bad you can’t use them in ML games.
Now we get to get BP against Pelfrey. We’re looking forward to it. Unless you dare start Sosa. Snicker.
By SandyB
April 2, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
maybe a story tomorrow about Kotsay (0-4)?? Bobby needs to find a nickname for Jurrjens—seemed like he was trying to pronounce it, then just said JJ :-)
GREAT game! just wish we could start putting them away before the 8th. I have to admit, I did have to change the channel for just a brief moment…
By Yars
April 2, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
KJ better heal up quick or he’ll wind up being nothing more than a bat off the bench.
By Mr. J
April 2, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
RichBrave,
Prado was 2 for 4 tonight. One walk, a triple to lead off the 1st, and 3 runs scored. That’ll work.
By JeffersonBravesFan
April 2, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
Hey Richbrave you dumbass….spell the mans name right why don’t you.
By mark
April 2, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
Well Lots of runs/hits and an END to those BULLPEN BLUES and how about 1st win goes to the Rookie Jair…Im predicting a Escobar batting title this season…GOOD LUCK to MIKE HAMPTON tomorrow!!
By Jared
April 2, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
yunel is the man, it’s a temporary thing. Get over it. Prado and his empty .300 batting average (no walks, low OBP, no homerun power) will rightfully be back on the bench soon enough.
By mark
April 2, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
PS Mike Hampton has never won CY Young was a runer up once….
By mets fan in atlanta
April 2, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this
The only reason Pedro was pitching in the 2nd game of the season was because of past reputation. John Maine was widely considered the mets ace last year—do you really think the mets are calling him their #4 this year?
BTW, you could not give the mets JoJo, Buddy or any of those other sorry “starting pitchers” you claim to have. Last year you thought you had a lot of depth too (where is Cormier now? That one was the funniest.)
By mets fan in atlanta
April 2, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
Considering i have braves season tickets, i figure i have just as much right to come on here and talk about the braves and mets. Heck, i probably stayed longer at the game Monday night than most of you all would have.
By Pete H.
April 2, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this
Bobby Braves: The Braves will have rough, illegal-in-37-states sex with Mr. Santana. Perez, OTOH, seems to own us.
Mssrs. Hernandez, Pelfrey and Sosa, OTOH, do not.
The Mets might just finish ahead of the Nats. Not likely, but possible.
By Jared
April 2, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
KJ CANT GET ON BASE.
Kelly Johnson career major league OBP: .360 in 817 at-bats (.375 in 521 at-bats in 2007). Career .364 OBP in seven minor league seasons.
Martin Prado career major league OBP: .327 in 104 at-bats. Career .352 OBP in five minor league seasons.
Face it, Johnson gets on base better and slugs much, much better than Prado.
By JeffersonBravesFan
April 2, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
mets fan in atlanta….just man up and admit you are a braves fan. If you bought season tickets, it’s not to see the Muts 9 times a year. Come on over and jion the good guys.
By TexasBrave
April 2, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
Thinking about the long reliever/spot starter situation since Bennett is likely the one to go barring a trade of one of the relievers. If a long man is needed Boyer did start last year at Richmond and did fairly well in that roll. He could possible be used as the long man.
As for the spot starter I have a suggestion. During the season when we normally would skip the fifth starter why not rotate who we skip? In other words when we do skip a starter instead of skipping JJ (who I assume is the fifth starter) skip Hampton’s start. Then the next time skip Smoltz’s then Glavine the next and so one so everyone (except perhaps Huddy) gets to take a start off.
This would also allow us to keep two of Boyer, Ring or Resop when Gonzalez comes back instead of one if we had a spot starter and Gonzalez.
By Philliesuk
April 2, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
I hate the Mets. Absolutely hate them. But if he is being honest, ‘mets fan in atlanta’ has a serious point. The Braves fans need to wake up and realize they need to start supporting their team and staying for the ENTIRE game, even we’re down 10-0. By the way, can’t wait to hear the ‘Larry’ chant at Shea while he just dominates you guys again. And again. And again.
By Pete H.
April 2, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
Mets Fan in Atlanta:
No one, sane, ever said we had pitching depth last year. We let Mark Redman start games for us. That was proof enough.
If you want to criticize, grab a brain. Someone else’s brain, that is, since yours is so defective.
By ssiscribe
April 2, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this
There. Everybody feel better now?
Good win tonight. Just the type of performance this team — and its fan base — needed.
Jurrjens gets it, folks. Love watching that dude pitch. Saw a couple of his spring starts, and listened to a couple more. Love the way he works the plate, his approach and the fact he pitches to contact. The fact he struck out five tonight shows you he has great stuff and good control. He’s going to be a good one for a long time if he stays healthy.
A little concerned about overuse of the bullpen, with Hampton pitching tomorrow and no off days for the next week and a half. I’d left Bennett out there to start the seventh and would’ve pitched Boyer in the ninth, but that’s just my two cents worth. Good work by Acosta and by Ring.
The bats are doing what we thought they would do. Nice bomb from Tex in the eighth. Good games from Prado and Diaz. And yeah, the Escobar kid is pretty good … dude is a star on the rise.
And a good night defensively. Chipper’s play on the ball (and broken bat) from Bautista was the play of the game, in my opinion. Good teams catch and throw it well; Braves did that tonight.
First win in the books. Go for the series win tomorrow night, then bring on the Mets!
The Scribe abides.
—30—
By woogidy
April 2, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
Escobar rhymes with superstar. DOB, What’s this Gammons is talking about Kotsay going through “hours” of back treatment a day? Is this true? He also said if Kotsay can give the Braves 4 good months to get to Scheafer he would be a “really good pickup” What do you think?
By yunel is the man
April 2, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
JARED, MAN…. WERE YOU ONE OF THE ONES SAYING KELLY IS HIITING GOOD, AND WOW HE GOT BEHIND THAT ON. YA, I HAVE WATCHED EVERY GAME, SEEN WHAT KELLY DID WHEN (WHEN YALL WERE SAYING THAT) LOL LOOK AT PRADO HE HAS DONE THE SAME THING HITING TO THE TRACK (AND HE HAS A AVG.). BUT THE BIG DIFF. IS THAT PRADO CAN PLAY 2ND …… KJ … CANT …. PLAIN AS THAT
By Stuart
April 2, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
It feels better to win one tonight. The offense is still too homer happy.
To put it in football terms, a homerun is the post pattern bomb. If you hit it, then you score alot of points. Moving runners along is like a strong in between the tackles running game, not as flashy, but more consistent. Put them together and then you get something special. The braves don’t put it together enough. On nights they hit the bombs they are unbeatable, but the nights they come up short, they are going to struggle until the small ball comes around.
The other thing that is worrisome is the lack of a true 8th inning guy. It looks like Bobby is going to use Moylan as the middle innings closer. If that is the case, there is not an eighth inning bridge right now. With Hampton, Jurrgens, and Glavine, 6 innings is what you are usually going to get, so Moylan and Soriano arent going to be enough. I am not impressed with the rest of the pen. However, if the bridge is established and the braves quit wasting 1st and 2nd and nobody out, this team can win 100 games. If they dont fix it, 85 losses is not out of the question.
BTW I love how the ball came out of Jurrgens hand. McCanns mitt moved up and down, not a foot right and left. Jurrgens has great command with the ol number 1. He isnt going to be perfect, but he has a bright future.
By Greg in TN
April 2, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
Evening Braves Nation…
Beautiful night for nine innings at the intersection of Pollard Blvd and Bill Lucas Drive.
Jair Jurrjens was both efficient and effective through five tonight. Started getting behind some batters late, particularly in the sixth, however I’m really happy with his Atlanta debut tonight.
Great night for the bully. Jeff Bennett came in to get Bautista to ground into an inning ending DP. Manny Acosta came back and pitched a scoreless seventh and Moylan, Ring, Resop and Ohman shut down the Bucs the rest of the way.
Chipper tonight did just what a leader does folks. RBI single in the first, SAC fly in the third, a single and a walk and also dodged a splintered bat from Jose Bautista to start the aforementioned 5-4-3 DP from Bennett and a nifty bare handed play on Jack Wilson in the ninth.
Bryan Pena had a pinch-hit single in the seventh, Martin Prado looked good tonight in the leadoff slot.
The Braves needed to put together a solid effort and tonight certainly fit that bill.
By MrGnat
April 2, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
Don’t look now but the Nats are showing their late season surge last year was not a fluke. They may have to use smoke and mirrors but they are still unbeaten with a nice little three game streak.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
April 2, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
richbrave Prado played like he wanted to keep the 2nd base job.
By MIBravesFan
April 2, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
DOB: “Just talking to a Pirates writer about how since-fired Pittsburgh GM Dave Littlefield turned down a trade last July 31 thaqt would have sent Jack Wilson to Detroit for Jurrjens (and a lesser piece).”
Two thoughts - (1) this how the Pirates have gotten to where they are, and why the Braves are the Braves; (2) Tigers undervalue young pitching, always have and apparently still do, understandable now perhaps in competing in today’s A.L. offensive-dominated game. But I think the trade of JJ is going to haunt the Tigers for a long time (maybe not quite as long as another Tigers trade of a young starting pitcher, but for a long time).
By brian
April 2, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
Pedro Martinez is out 4-6 weeks with a strained hammy. Hope the Mets pitching depth is as good as our Mets fan says it is. I guess from their point of view that is another 4-6 weeks for his arm to heal
By Josh h
April 2, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
Great game tonight.
I love how Bobby threw Manny Acosta right back out there in the 7th inning. Pitched a great inning to boost his fan support after Monday night.
All the relievers looked pretty sharp. I was worried when Ring came in, but he did his job, located and struck out LaRoche. Resop’s location was a bit off but he managed to get out of it. Bennett got out of a serious jam with that double play.
Hats off to Jurrjens and the offense. Even before the 7 run bottom of the 8th, we were working the count and getting good clutch hits. Texeira picked a good time to wake up and Escobar just smoked that ball.
Remember, Jurrjens is our #5 :). Well, him or Hampton.
By Daybed Wagmoe
April 2, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
The only reason Pedro was pitching in the 2nd game of the season was because of past reputation.
Yeah, okay. I’m sure it had nothing to do with Pedro’s supposed improvement coming back or his work during Spring Training. Or his salary. If that’s how MLB managers form their rotations, then Mike Hampton would’ve pitched on Monday night.
Last year you thought you had a lot of depth too.
No we didn’t.
By Brave Fan in Miami
April 2, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this
DOB
where can we find the new blue uni jersey?
By Jared
April 2, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
LOL LOOK AT PRADO HE HAS DONE THE SAME THING HITING TO THE TRACK (AND HE HAS A AVG.).
Prado hits for a higher batting average, yes. But he doesn’t get on base as much as Johnson (OBP again), he doesn’t walk and has no real power to speak of. Johnson is the superior player.
PRADO CAN PLAY 2ND …… KJ … CANT …. PLAIN AS THAT
Stats are a pesky thing when you’re arguing with emotion.
Kelly Johnson had a .978 fielding percentage at second base in 2007 in 133 games. He also has a career major league .981 fielding percentage.
Prado, meanwhile, had a .941 fielding percentage at second base in 2007. Prado also has a career major league .957 fielding percentage.
By Tomahawkin
April 2, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this
Scribe said it best…
Yea we gotta get an early blow-out tomorrow, so the Blow-pen can rest a little headed into the Muts Series
An Overused Blow-pen + the Mutts Offense =’s well You do the Math…You don’t have to be a “Rocket-Ship” to figure that out…
By mets fan in atlanta
April 2, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
Don’t worry i’m being honest. I do get the season tickets, but mainly because i’m a baseball fan, and i would watch any two major league teams play. I never went to a major league game until 6 years ago when i first moved to Atlanta from MS. Long story why i’m a mets fan, but i’ve been a diehard fan since 1986.
By Goodoleboy58
April 2, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
anyone see Maddux just lay out and rob Berkman from the mound… that old man can still field
By Lew
April 2, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this
Steve-Dude, you misunderstand the way they number the games on Extra Innings. Twelve means it’s on the twelfth MLB channel-some games are earlier e.g.-up here, our channels are 531-544, so for us (it was also 12 here tonight), the game was on channel 542. Actually go to the first channel that your package assigns to the games (right now the first few are still NHL) and do channel up until you find the Braves. That’s kind of like going around your butt to get to your elbow, but at least you’ll find the game.
McFann-No BIFF, POW Or WHAP, either.
By Let's Run the Bullpen Into the Ground Again in 2008
April 2, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this
At this pace, we want have anyone with an elbow left on his pitching arm after June 1, when will that knucklehead learn to manage a bullpen wisely.
By Randy S
April 2, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
Just saw this on the mlb trade rumors forum for the pedro injury:
“Santana, Maine and pray for rain”
Oh, and Jack Wilson for JJJ??? Wow. Two GMs makin me scratch my head there.
By richbrave
April 2, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
Mr. J:
Thanks dude. Looks like Prado wants it after all. He’s picked up his game since last year. Guess he knew it was now or never.
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this
Richbrave, Prado played a very good all-around game, had a leadoff triple in the first inning, went 2-for-4 with a walk and made a stellar turn on the double play when Chipper ignored the bat hitting Hoss in the leg as he threw to Prado to start the 5-4-3 DP.
Prado gave the Braves a scare when he went sprawling on ninth-inning single after getting tripped by the first baseman as he beat out the hit to deep second-base hole. But Prado just had the wind knocked out of him, that was only reason he stayed on the ground a while.
Very solid game for the utility man.
By yunel is the man
April 2, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
JARED OK, FIRST OF ALL MARTIN IS A DIFFERNET PLAYER THIS YEAR I SAW THATTHE FIRST WEEK IN SPRING TRAINING. THAT BEING SAID YES JOHNSON WAS A GOOD PROSPECT IN 05 AND IN THE MINORS IN OUTFIELD. KJ IS NOT A INFIELDER…. HE HAS NO RANGE AT ALL, AND IF ITS TO HIS RIGHT HE MIGHT AS WELL STAND THERE AND WATCH IT GO BY BECAUSE HE KNOWS HE CANT GET IT. i KNOW YOU HAVE WATCHED HIM HE WILL GO 20-30 FT ON HIS LEFT SIDE SLIDE INTO IT KNOCK IT DOWN (AT LEAST) AND MAYBE HAVE A CHANCE. ON THE LEFT SIDE AT 10 FT HE WILL LET THEM GO (WITHOUT THE SAME SLIDE ATTEMPT) BECAUSE HE KNOWS HE CANT MAKE THE PLAY AND i THINK HE DOES THAT BECAUSE HE DOESNT WANT THE ERROR WHEN HE MISSES A CATCH, OR CANT MAKE THE OFF BALANCE TOSS TO FIRST. RIGHT
By richbrave
April 2, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
GIL IN MECHANICSVILLE:
Enjoy the game Thursday. Health still too iffy to go to a game. Will be there in spirit. Say hi to Carroll Rodgers for me. BTW my grandson is posting 79-80 with his four-seam fastball. 14 on Feb. 23.
By David O'Brien
April 2, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
Oh, and anyone who says that Escobar won’t hit for power is dead wrong. Don’t care what he’s done in the past, the man has arms like steel cables now, and he’ll hit 15 or more homers this year just by accident with that stroke of his.
If he wanted to, I really believe he’d hit 20 or more this season. But if he’s as savvy as I think he is, he’s just gonna hit line drives all over the field, and pop 15 or more homers in the process.
By BamaBravesFan
April 2, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
DOB! I have been following your rec’s when it has come to music lately. (Got tired of all my stuff on the ipod, thought i would try some new stuff). Got to say, I absolutely LOVE The Black Keys. Amazing band. Their new CD is great. Thanks for the music reccomendation.
Yunel is a special player…hope that he and jair will keep it up and we can lock em up for a long time!
GO BRAVES!!!
By ippississiM
April 2, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this
Evening, all! I’ve got a question for those who have been Braves fans for a while. Who was slower on the basepaths, Heap or Sid Bream? Please explain your perspective on this.
mets fan in atlanta: what part of Mississippi?
By BosnianBaller
April 2, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this
I like prado more as a starter because he is sure handed on defense.you have to figure we have enough offense and prado really isn’t that bad swinging the bat.
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this
after reading a lot of blogs UGA has abstained.
been patient not trying to jump to early conclusions but here are my early reads.
starting pitching will be a WHOLE lot better.
offense is the same. relief pitching is a work in progress.
anyone that has watched the last two games needs to put a stopwatch on our innings when we hit.
we dont make pitchers work. we swing at pitches early in the count.
whereas, our opponents make our pitchers work for every out.
from a lineup perspective we cant have francoeur, mccann, and diaz, hit behind each other. they are the same hitter.
they swing at everything, whether it is a ball or a strike.
how did our rally start today? chipper walked. then tex dialed up.
game over.
my point is francoeur, mac, and diaz dont have enough patience to start a late game rally.
except for chipper and tex, our hitters dont see enough pitches.
kotsay has got to hit in between those guys.
either that or hit ESCOBAR fifth.
right now i believe he is the third best hitter on this team.
esco is gonna be a star, great swing and good mechanics.
i believe that prado is already a BOBBY favorite.
kelly would of never turned that double play tonight.
bobby aint gonna put up with shoddy defense, period.
not to knock kelly but it is what it is.
hamp, and glav are both ground ball pitchers. guys that need the double play.
just thoughts from the graveyard.
By ippississiM
April 3, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this
Just saw on Baseball Tonight on ESPN that the Mets’ estimate of 6-8 weeks is “conservative” for Pedro’s return, and we shouldn’t be surprised if it was more like 2-3 months at least, because of the stress of Pedro’s delivery on his hammy.
By Who is this Jose Bautista, and what does he have against Chipper Jones?
April 3, 2008 12:27 AM | Link to this
Good game tonight! Yunel Escobar for President, on the Braves Ticket!
By Pedro Who?
April 3, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this
Veras says it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Brilliant! Did the ‘roids make him so smart?
By cherokee
April 3, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this
At 2nd base vs. Lefties, he is a switch hitter, and KJ struggles against lefties. What is the point of picking him up if he’s not better than PradoRobU
he is a poor defensive player. Prado is way better and just about the same kinda hitter with perhaps just a little less power
By JimD
April 3, 2008 12:34 AM | Link to this
Those tight hammies are a booger on an old guy like Pete. Trust me, I am an old guy too. I know how it feels.
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this
Interesting how a good night will cure lots of ills. Where are all the naysayers tonight?
Patience, grasshopper.
By Metropolitan Man
April 3, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this
Good game tonight from both teams. Its good to see you get that 1st win, you better win tomorrow and keep the momentum because we all know Friday starts the METS thrashing of the braves for the first time in 08’. You guys have proven you can tally up some runs, try doing that against METS pitching even without Pedro. (get well soon). Here are the guys who will hold the fort down: Nelson Figueroa, Jorge Sosa (who threw 2 2/3 scoreless innings on Tuesday night), Tony Armas or Brian Stokes, who was just optioned to Triple-A New Orleans. Of course El Duque will be back in a couple of weeks. Losing Pedro hurts especailly with no El Duque and the METS keep rolling. Can the braves say the same without a Smoltz AND Hampton? You better cross your fingers.
By Roman Gal
April 3, 2008 12:45 AM | Link to this
uga-brave, I’m going to have to disagree with you on this statement:
kelly would of never turned that double play tonight.
He may not be the best fielder, but the man knows how to turn a double play and has a great arm. In fact, last year he was 4th in the majors in assists by a 2nd baseman last year. Even with a lot less chances.
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this
DOB,
pretty obvious about escobar. he is already a better hitter then francoeur and it did not take 1700 plate appearances.
some guys have plate presence , and he has got it.
does not look like he ever gets fooled.
but then again, with all due respect he is not a local story.
just kidding DOB, i think jeff is all that is good about being a local guy, i just dont think he will ever be a star.
the swing at this point, and he is still young, reminds me of jermaine dye.
you gotta grow into that hack.
he wants to be chipper with every swing and he does not get what it takes to be truly a great hitter.
guys like galaraga, pujols, bonds, and chipper, know when to take a walk.
make a pitcher labor or throw deep into a count, keep your team in the dugout and the other team on the field.
By mr baseball
April 3, 2008 12:52 AM | Link to this
All it takes is one win to change the mood on the blog by about 180. Amazing how fast folks on here have jumped on the Prado bandwagon. In any case, Cox might be thinking about a platoon at 2B, because it’s the only one available to him, and we know how much he loves platoons. Fortunately for KJ, if he gets back in the lineup this weekend, there’s no Oliver Perez waiting for him. Unfortunately, it’s Johan on Sunday, so expect to see Prado & Corky in the lineup. Can Pena play center?
It may not take long for Cox’s stubborn refusal to let relievers pitch more than an inning to catch up to the bullpen. Maybe the Moylan HR to Zimmerman opening night spooked him, followed by Boyer’s second inning meltdown the next night.
Not exactly sure why he yanked Bennett so quickly. When Smoltz comes back, someone other than Bennett is going to have to go, because he may be the only guy in the ‘pen capable of multiple inning atints, and that’s going to be a necessity with a staff of 5 & 6 innings pitchers other than Hudson & Smoltz (if healthy).
Given Helms’ salary, the Braves will likely wait until the Phillies have to unload him, which may or may not be too late. If Prado can produce on a reasonable basis, there’s no need to keep Gotay around. Helms would be a much better fit, but he may want to go somewhere where he can be more than a pinch hitter and twice a month caddy.
Uga…..
Don’t get so hung up on the aggressive nature of some of the Braves’ hitters. An aggressive hitter with a .225 average is one thing. That does not apply to any of the 3 guys you cited. People tend to forget how many first pitch hits guys get, but first pitch outs somehow stick in the memory of those who prefer the selective approach.
By MiamiBraveFan
April 3, 2008 12:55 AM | Link to this
Met Man
you guys have proven you can tally up some runs (marlins ace mark hendrickson and rookie andrew miller)
you’re about to face some real pitching yourself
now shut ur mouth and go follow your team’s lead and choke on something
By Pete H.
April 3, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this
Metroman, just go back to your Mutts sewer. We really, really don’t care what crap you have to spew. I don’t even read your idiotic posts anymore.
Don’t go away mad. Just go away.
By Metropolitan Man
April 3, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this
MiamiBraveFan:
I’ll go choke on a fat victory cigar this weekend after the METS embarrass your braves at the TED….again. If you have hate in your heart, just let it out.
LETS GO METS!!!
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this
wayne,
what up u jazz fan.
i think we both like our good friend N8, the dude has clout around here as far as i am concerned.
he just chooses to look at the game from a different perspective.
and rightfully so. we have all been somewhat disappointed in several postseasons.
now it has extended into the regular season.
SORRY CHASE, you dont have the right to call out N8. THE GUY HAS THE RIGHT TO SAY WHAT HE DOES.
N8 has forgot….. well that would be a rant.
besides BRAVEHEART, which i think many of you have scared away, N8 right or wrong is entertaining.
more times then not he is right. he was right about the fact that mccann should of been on second base.
By Metropolitan Man
April 3, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this
Ok, Petey H, I’m gone. Congradualtions you are the first brave blogger to say something to make me go away. It finally worked. Now that baseball season is here, I will crawl in a hole and listen for any signs of the METS. I blogged in the winter only to disapear when the season starts and its all because of you. Now go celebrate your 1 braves win and give me room as I will always ripped the braves. They got ripped then, will get ripped now and forever as long a I’m around. Thank you for your time.
LETS GO METS!!!
By nolie
April 3, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this
Can you help me find a Billy Joe Shaver song about with a line about “a diamond in the rough”.bfan54
The only song of his that I can think of right now with diamond in is is Old chunk of coal which has I’ll be a diamond some day in it, but that wasn’t on the Old five & Dimers album. Chunk of Coal came out in 81 I believe. Guy is a tremendous songwriter. I’ll keep thinking on it. In fact I’ll go back and revisit that album as I haven’t listened to it for years.
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this
MR. baseball,
RIDDLE ME THIS?
tie game, bottom of the ninth would you rather face craig counsell, or jeff francoeur.
kinda a dilemna?
By yunel is the man
April 3, 2008 1:29 AM | Link to this
mr baseball U JUST SAID WHAT i WANT 2 SAY, JUST JUST WANNA HACK AT THE BUTTONS THAT LONG. u SOUND LIKE A COACH OR SHOULD BE. i WANT 2 KNOW IF YALL THINK TERRY P. WIILTAKE OVER BC JOB WHEN HE RETIRES?
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this
uga Hey, I like N8 too, but sometimes…..
Well, let’s just say that when I was young, I was a lot more opinionated and vocal too.
Granted, I have not studied the Mets like I have the Braves, but MAN, that rotation looks a bit ragged. Like Metro says, we have some concerns: Smoltz and Hampton’s health, and Glavine’s age. Then there is the youth of Jurrjens.
BUT, we have some good strong young arms, waiting in the wings, even if they are a bit rough around the edges (James, Bennett, Morton, Reyes, etc). Counting on El Duque and Sosa does not inspire confidence.
uga One more thought. There are times when we all can “beat on a dead horse” you know, but I think you are getting a little obsessed with letting everybody know that you don’t think Francoeur is going to be a star.
Something to think about. So what if he doesn’t? He could, and for sure the potential is there, but how many major league players actually become stars. We have 4-5 guys on the bubble right now: Frenchy, Heap, Escobar, KJ. How many of these guys will turn into perennial all-stars? Maybe one. If we are lucky, maybe two or three. There is nothing wrong with the Paul O’Neil types, which if Frenchy turns into a 290/340/500 hitter with an average of 25 HR’s and 105 RBI’s, and with that gun!! Hard to ask him for more, isn’t it? So, I think you should just not worry about it. I really don’t think the Braves are. I think they are just thankful for what he is today, with the expectation that he might show gradual and continual improvement.
Besides, we have Heyward and Schafer in the wings!!!
Jazz have been hit by the flu bug lately. They could go a long way, but they don’t seem to have the answer for road games sometimes. Hope does spring eternal, though.
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 1:37 AM | Link to this
uga Is Craig Counsell still playing? No question, it’s Francoeur HANDS DOWN! He lives for that moment.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
April 3, 2008 1:48 AM | Link to this
richbrave I’m sorry you are still ailing. I am looking forward to tomorrow’s game. I am anxious to see Anderson in person. I have no idea who the starting pitchers will be. I am glad Atlanta is playing at 7PM as it will give me a chance to get home in time to watch Hampton.
Let me know when you are planning to attend a game. I try to make the day games as much as possible.
I am impressed.. I couldn’t get my fast ball over 55… Except when it was coming straight back at me…
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 1:57 AM | Link to this
soriano, ohman, ring, resop, bennet, moylan.
mercker, stanton, wholers, clontz, oh that was a decade ago.
what’s the difference?
we used to develop arms. now we just try to pick up peoples discards.
said it a long time ago, when we cut our SECOND TO NONE SCOUTING AND PLAYER DEVELOPMENT BUDGET, that it would get us eventually.
WE HAVE not developed a QUALITY ARM in relief,
or a starter in a long time.
NAME ONE GREAT PITCHING PROSPECT WE HAVE?
yanks have TWO, JOBA AND HUGHES. the reds have homer bailey, the phills developed cole hammells.
what do we have?
well we cut the budget, now instead of having pat coralles or a major league bench coach, we have a oompa loompa that throws batting practice fastballs.
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 2:02 AM | Link to this
gil,
good to hear from you again>
always loved your introspect from richmond.
hope you got a new vehicle for your daughter.
By Santa3247
April 3, 2008 2:07 AM | Link to this
Hi I am Seong-Ho Yoon from Jinhae(Sea of Glass) city southkorea, and I want to tell about something crazy behavior of Bobby Cox and Roger McDowell. For only one pitch at the mound, relievers have to warm up and pitch so many balls in dugout. Relievers are not machine I think. Fans of Braves have to know exactly the behavior of manager and coaches, or friends of Babylon mainly would just play to the order from neutron.
“May the force of Messiah be with you”
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 2:11 AM | Link to this
wayne,
i agree, but if you lived in atlanta you have to read about certain players every move.
especially two of them.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 2:17 AM | Link to this
bfan54, I was going to make same suggestion nOLIE did, that perhaps you’re talking about Ol’ Chunk of Coal and the line “I’m just an old chunk of coal now Lord / but I’m gonna be a diamond some day.”
Billy Joe Shaver, truly The Real Deal. Right up there with Dylan and Hank for songwriting genius.
I’ve been listening to his Electric Shaver CD the past few weeks. Great stuff.
You ever hear the live album from the show at Smith’s Olde Bar here in Atlanta? Great guitars on that one.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 2:22 AM | Link to this
but then again, with all due respect he is not a local story.uga-brave
Am I missing something? Without going back and reading your earlier posts (because I’m going to bed), I’m going to assume you said something that made this line relevent.
Because otherwise, I’ll ask what are you talking about? Why do I care if he’s a “local story”? This is major league baseball, dude. Not high school or college sports. Not everyone on the team needs to come from the metro Atlanta area.
“Not a local story”? Huh? He’s one of the best young players in baseball. You think most Braves fans care as much as you seem to that Yunel is from Havana and not Hahira?
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 2:25 AM | Link to this
And by the way uga-brave, you seem far more obsessed with Francoeur than anyone here. I haven’t written about him as much as I’ve written about Yunel Escobar or Jurrjens since spring training began, other than Francoeur getting hit in the face by a pitch, which was a newsworthy story.
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 2:30 AM | Link to this
wayne,
i dont dislike francoeur, on the contrary i think he is a great ball player.
what i dont like, is having to read about his every quote.
if he was not a home grown guy, at this point he would be matt diaz.
he is lucky he gets to play every day.
the local persona can get played out so much.
By yunel is the man
April 3, 2008 2:32 AM | Link to this
DOB PLEASE SHOOT ME A EMAIL ON THE SUBJECT. TY
By mr baseball
April 3, 2008 2:35 AM | Link to this
uga:
Francouer, no question. Look at his numbers the last few years with RISP. Some folks get too hung up on appearances. I don’t put a lot of stock in how things look. Take Vlad’s swing for example. He is totally undisciplined at the plate, but I can count on the fingers of one hand hitters who scare opposing pitchers more.
Diaz is another example. How many awful swings do we see from him? But does that prevent him from hitting around .333. Nope. I believe in numbers, not appearances. As long as he keeps driving in big runs, Francouer can swing at as many first pitches as he wants. He’ll get a little more patient as he gets more experience, but he is never going to be what he is: an aggressive hitter who will look bad at times but will produce numbers that will make him a very wealthy man.
Appreciate what he does. Don’t sweat what he might do if he did things differently. He probably would not be nearly as good.
Also, cut the organization a little slack. They have probably produced more quality position players over the past 15 years than any team in baseball. Not sure what it is with pitchers, but they haven’t had much luck in that department since Millwood. But the endless stream of first rate non-pitchers more than compensates.
Yunel:
Yes, I’m a coach (sort of, rec league teenagers). No on TP. At least I hope not. His leadership skills may have been overrated and he hasn’t exactly gotten through to some of his students on the art of hitting.
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 2:38 AM | Link to this
DOB,
sorry if you missed my point, but you are right on with escobar.
the guy is gonna be great, but the old crap with the home grown braves in the paper got stale.
nice to see a braves player that is really good that did not come from EAST COBB.
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 2:57 AM | Link to this
at least we dont have to read about macky mcbride or kyle davies anymore.
that really got played out.
the home grown braves thing got BOORISH.
i always thought it was a way to put butts in the seats.
oh by the way DOB, as a athens guy i think your review of REM’S new album is right on.
they are back, kinda like u2’s beatiful day.
went back to their roots, and did it right.
for me, you cant go back to rockville, but you can come close.
By Moby Grape
April 3, 2008 4:38 AM | Link to this
Moby Grape, Prospectus analyzes every player in the bigs, in addition to some prospects. Moreover, they have several different scouts that are assigned to different teams and players. The fact that they might get a player wrong is statistically inevitable.Epinephrine
Thats true, but being so egregiously wrong about Yunel means that they could be just as wrong about JJJ.I’m not saying that they are. It seems like a rationalization, you’re going to choose to use the the one you agree with and discount the one that you don’t. Doesn’t make the strongest most logical impression.
Basically though I just took exception to your rudeness, calling other posters asinine with so little reason, very little since one of the 2 sources you quoted BA actually said exactly what the other posters said- that he was a number three, and not what you claimed. If you’re gonna talk like that you should at least have a preponderance of evidence proving that they are indeed that wrong, not one example. There was nothing asinine about what they said, it was totally valid. Ad hominem arguments, as someone posted recently, lack class; and make you seem even more foolish if you are wrong.JMO obviously.
By kc brave
April 3, 2008 5:01 AM | Link to this
Hey David. I saw Back Door Slam on Jimmy Kimmel Live last night and I was blown away. That kid can wail on the guitar. Have you seen them play before? I gotta run out today and pick up their CD. Oh and J.J.’s stuff was electric for the first five innings last night.
By Metropolitan Man
April 3, 2008 6:22 AM | Link to this
Is it true Chumper survived getting hit by a piece of Bautista’s bat? Now that in itself is a victory for braves fans. Make sure you keep that iron man fresh, he has missed too many games against the METS the past couple of years. In order to even things out, he has to play and the METS pitchers will finally bring that average against the METS down.
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 6:24 AM | Link to this
Looking at their minor league stats, KJ’s BA in 603 games and 2142 AB was .281. Prado’s BA was .300 in 486 games and 1901 AB. KJ struck out every 4.5 AB, and Prado once in every 7.7 AB.
In terms of OBP, the reason everyone on here prefers KJ over Prado, KJ’s minor league OBP was .366. Prado’s wasn’t far off at .353.
Prado hit .316 last year at Richmond with an OBP of .374.
KJ’s Fielding PCT last year was .978 which ranked 103 out of 140 players who played atleast 1 game at 2B, and 19 out of 23 who played more than 100 games at 2B. At 2B, Prado’s fielding PCT was .995 in the minors and majors combined (87 games).
It seemed like KJ made more errors last year at the end of the year when the pressure was on the braves to earn a playoff spot. In a high pressure situation, I’d rather have Prado at 2B.
Last year, KJ hit just .268 in the leadoff role with .372 OBP. He hit better in the 5th spot (.462 but just 13 AB), then in the 7th spot (.377, .457 OBP in 61 AB), then in the 8th spot (.297 with a .372 OBP in 37 AB), before the leadoff spot.
Leading off an inning, KJ hit just .251 last year with a .326 OBP, his 3rd worst situational hitting out of 17 different situations according to ESPN. Also, KJ hit just .256 last year at the Ted.
I just think Prado is a gamer, much like Escobar if finally given the chance to play. Been saying it for 2 years. We never should’ve gotten Kotsay and put KJ in center until Schaffer is ready., or trade KJ and put Blanco in center for this reason….
(Thank you Stuart for summarizing what i’ve been saying for years):
*The offense is still too homer happy.
To put it in football terms, a homerun is the post pattern bomb. If you hit it, then you score alot of points. Moving runners along is like a strong in between the tackles running game, not as flashy, but more consistent. Put them together and then you get something special. The braves don’t put it together enough. On nights they hit the bombs they are unbeatable, but the nights they come up short, they are going to struggle until the small ball comes around.*
That is why we lose a lot of 1 run games. The bullpen is the other reason.
KJ’s Splits KJ’s Minor League Stats
By Metropolitan Man
April 3, 2008 6:29 AM | Link to this
I didnt beleive it but it seems true. Your precious Tex is not clutch. He can only get going when a hit barrage is taking place. Texas fans said this last year (of course you didnt beleive them) when you got him and it just might hold some wight. Better kick the tires on that one before selling the Macon braves to try and sign him after the season.
Also, will you guys actually miss K. Johnson with all those infielders you guys have?
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 6:32 AM | Link to this
BC is never afraid to use his pen after an off day. Those of you concerned about the bullpen use should know this.
And when smoltz returns, bennett stays. BC loves a ground ball specialist, and Bennet, getting that DP in the 6th aroused BC i’m sure. Not to mention, Bennet is the long relief guy. BC will use him sparingly in DP situations (no more than 1 or 2 batters a game) & save him for long relief situations.
Hopefully, we’ll start Prado at 2B and use KJ as our 4th Outfielder. Then Blanco will be the odd man out unfortunately until we get a trade figured out.
By Yars
April 3, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this
Some of you are judging Prado based solely on last nights performance. What if he had went 0-4 last night? I agree that his defense is slightly better than KJ’s, but I’d take KJ’s bat over Prado’s anyday. I agree with what Brian Jordan said on the post game show on FSN South. KJ better heal up fast & start hitting the ball, or we will definitely being seeing more Prado at 2B. In other words, 2B is KJ’s to lose at this point. Prado is being given a golden opportunity right now & making the most of it. The thought of Bobby having a platoon at 2B gives me a headache. now playing: Capital G by nine inch nails.
By Jersey Gil
April 3, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this
I Hope the Family of Jurjens was not disapoint with last night Baseball Pkg “Indemand” Extra Inning like i was. Indemand Extra Inning have the Braves Games in Channel 782 Game 12 and when i tried to look for the game My Comcast Cable in this are only have thru channel 780, so the Braves Games was not show in last night in this area, if any one have the same problem last night?. I when to my back up plan with my XM Radio, good game last night.
By kdbanks
April 3, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this
Hampton’s first start…can’t you feel the electricity in the air this morning? I’m voting for Hampton’s Hampers to make an appearance tonight.
By ncscoots
April 3, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this
BC is exercising the pen arms early because he doesn’t as yet know where each pitcher will be most effective. Understandable, a lot of new arms down there. It appears he would like one of the Acosta/Resop/Boyer triumvirate to step up and take charge as a guy he could use in the 8th, so he can keep Moylan as a tactical situational weapon in the middle/late innings. But he can’t find that out unless he runs them out there early in the season to see how it falls out. So it wouldn’t surprise me to see a lot of pitchers work a game in the first few weeks.
Prado over KJ? Sorry, boys, that one doesn’t bear discussion.
Oh, and that Hoss? He might work out. He’s kinda OK good, I guess. Jeez.
By Stuart
April 3, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this
Bobby’s
Thanks for the props earlier. I have to respectfully disagree with you on KJ.
KJ is just an average 2B, but he is going to hit. I think his biggest issue is that he is not a leadoff hitter. He would probably be best used in a run producing spot (5-7) in the order because he has pop. However, since the bravos do not have a true leadoff hitter, he is forced to bat leadoff. I like Prado. He is a good defensive 2B, but he does not have the bat KJ has.
You do not want Yunnel to leadoff and take pitches, you want him slashing and doing his thing in the 2 hole.
The lineup has 3 sure things with Hoss, Tex, and Bmac. These guys are going to hit. I think Escobar and Diaz will too, but they are in the next teir. All Kotsay has to do is be selective, keep the OBP up and turn the lineup over. The keys to the lineup are the production of KJ and Frenchy.
Frenchy is not going anywhere in the media or to another team. He is THE guy. There is no logical replacement for him right now. Heyward isnt near ready, and Brandon Jones does not appear to be the answer right now. BJ needs some AAA time. Frenchy has to hit and I think he will. When he is on a tear, the lineup shifts from good to outstanding.
KJ is the engigma. He is the key to the lineup, AND the most disposable spare part we have. If the braves can find an anchor for the bully (ie Scott Shields type setup guy) or a quality starter (ie Joe Blanto, Rich Harden type) either this year or next by trading him, the trigger needs to be pulled. Prado can replace him at least in the short term. Prado does not have the pop, speed or talent KJ has, but his right handed bat and ability to control the bat would bring some balance to the lineup.
I am not saying trade KJ, far from it. Again when he is right, the offense shifts to another gear. However, if someone comes along and gives you the ‘Godfather’ offer for him I think the deal needs to get done because of Prado. It would be trading a strength to sure up a weakness.
By Shaun
April 3, 2008 8:59 AM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox, you conveniently failed to mention that Johnson’s slugging percentage in the majors is .435. Prado slugged .393 in the minors and .380 so far in the majors. Combine Johnson’s clear edge in power and on-base ability makes him the better player. Prado’s a fine player, too, and could probably start for many teams but Johnson is the better player.
Also, do you think a “homer-happy” offense is actually costing the Braves wins? Teams that score runs are teams that get on base and hit for power. Those things are kind of a prerequisite for scoring runs.
I think the primary reason for the one-run losses is that their pitching is not better than their offense on a lot of nights/days. When you give your opponent the chance to stay in games, sometimes they are going to come out ahead. Has more to do with the Braves lack of pitching depth in 2006-2007 than anything.
Look at home one-run record and you’ll see that in 2006-2007 only one team had a losing record at home in one-run games. Teams that get last bat naturally have a distinct advantage in close games. I think it follows that teams that allow their opponents to stay in the game will lose some games.
By ncscoots
April 3, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this
Here are the guys who will hold the fort down: Nelson Figueroa, Jorge Sosa (who threw 2 2/3 scoreless innings on Tuesday night), Tony Armas or Brian Stokes
Uh, is that supposed to actually strike fear into the hitters on a ML club? Holy Cornelia. If those are the guys holding the fort, the rampaging Apaches are tooling up for a massacre.
By Josh H
April 3, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this
The comment about Texeira only being able to turn it up in a blow out? He started the blow out with a two-run home-run to give us the insurance. Its not like we were leading by 5 when he came up to bat. 3-2 is not a blow out by any means, its a close game where two extra runs really helps.
Not his fault that McCann, Diaz, Francouer, Brayan Pena and Escobar followed his example.
Also, let’s not go ahead and trade Kelly Johnson and start Prado just yet. He had a good game last night.
But the night before, Prado lifted three balls to the warning track. Problem is, he doesn’t have the power to get those out. 1 home run in 108 major league at bats (if I read that right).
Interesting point when I was looking at Kelly’s statistics. 8 of his home runs last year came on a 1-0 or 2-0 count. I wonder if that holds true for most players.
By 18 Wheels of Love
April 3, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this
about new REM album
On first listen the new REM sounds incredible, and as DOB said, up there with their best. I’m thru 12 songs and am extremely impressed. Gonna listen to it for about a week and then make final judgement, but so far sooooo good!
By Jared
April 3, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this
Johnson is probably the best young player on the Braves’ team. I remember someone, Neyer I think, making that same argument. Johnson is really good, and should be every bit as untouchable in trade discussion as McCann or Francoeur.
Johnson gets on base and hits for more power than Prado. The Braves would, and will, no-doubt score more runs with Johnson playing 145+ games than they would Prado playing that many games. It’s not even debateable. It’s like saying the 2005 version of Pete Orr and his .300 batting average that year was better than Adam Dunn.
By THE BEAR
April 3, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this
DB wrote: **But as Teixeira told me in Florida, he’s had bad springs most years and expects them, because he doesn’t focus on anything at spring training other than getting ready for the regular season, with extra weightlifting and hitting most days during camp.
As for his 1-for-10 start to the season, consider this: In his first 15 games last season for the Rangers, Teixeira hit .192 (10-for-52) with one extra-base hit (double) and two RBI.**
PERHAPS in future ST’s Tex would be well advised to “focus” on getting his bat going. Why waste two or three weeks? That is what ST is for, to get ready for opening day.
By Jared
April 3, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
Looking at their minor league stats, KJ’s BA in 603 games and 2142 AB was .281. Prado’s BA was .300 in 486 games and 1901 AB. KJ struck out every 4.5 AB, and Prado once in every 7.7 AB.
Batting average again? Next I assume you’ll be saying Juan Pierre (career .301 hitter) is better than Adam Dunn (career .248 hitter)?
Even worse is you’re bring up strikeouts.
Top five guys who struck out the least per nine innings in 2006: Pierre, Garciaparra, Polanco, Lo Duca and Eckstein.
Top five guys who struck out the most per nine in 2006: Dunn, Ryan Howard, Granderson, Bill Hall and Alfonso Soriano.
Which of those two groups of five would you take?
In terms of OBP, the reason everyone on here prefers KJ over Prado, KJ’s minor league OBP was .366. Prado’s wasn’t far off at .353.
Or maybe it’s the power? The upside? Kelly Johnson had a .375 OBP in a full major league season last year. Kelly Johnson walks more and gets on base more.
Here’s the big kicker (in 2007):
Prado: .662 OPS
Johnson: .832 OPS
That is a BIG difference.
By AdirondackDave
April 3, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
Every time Escobar has a great game, which seems like 2 out of 3 days, I chuckle and think of that guy who said we would rue the day Renteria was traded because Escobar was was nothing more than a utility player!
As much as I like Edgar, I would have made that deal any day of the week and twice on Sunday. Imagine, the Pirates declining Jurrjens for Wilson who seems to me to be a journeyman shortstop and nothing more. For that matter, think of how ecstatic the Tigers must have been that they reeled in Renteria after “losing out” on Wilson! Must have been like Christmas in the Detroit offices!
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
Shaun, dont forget that a player is not only his bat, but his glove. And Martin is a much better fielder than KJ plus he can field all IF positions but catcher. And KJ is not a slugger, im convinced that Martin will soon catch up with KJs offensive numbers.
By 22oz
April 3, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
Chipper’s on pace for 324 RBI’s! But i think he’ll probably need some days off, and he may not produce some days, so i’ll predict he gets around 250 RBI’s this year.
By LT-AA blogger
April 3, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
Good luck to Hamp tonight (if the game doesn’t get rained out)! While I’ll be amazed if he can play the entire year, I really think the guy has a lot of heart for going through what he has the last two + years and making this come back a reality.
If I had been in the same position, I think I would’ve been chillin on a beach in Maui right now with a mai tai in tow. Peace
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this
Johnson is probably the best young player on the Braves’ team. I remember someone, Neyer I think, making that same argument. Johnson is really good, and should be every bit as untouchable in trade discussion as McCann or Francoeur.
Thank you Jared. The best post I have seen in a while on this blog. That isn’t a sarcastic comment either. Johnson is just as good, if not better, than McCann, Francouer or Escobar.
By KC
April 3, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this
MetroMan: My, my, my… you’re feisty this morning! Must be feeling a bit threatened on behalf of your Mets.
That’s understandable. You see that Jurrjens looked good, so you believe the Braves are 5 deep… where the Mets are only 3 deep right now in the rotation.
You see the writing on the all and it tortures you, so you lash out at Braves fans.
It’s ok. I understand.
HEY, one thing though… Grinchy told me you said you emailed me… but I haven’t received anything from you. Please try again embassypro@hotmail.com
Surely you’re not backing down… I hope you’re willing to back up your talk! =)
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this
DAVID O’BRIAN:
I missed your info on Prado last night. Caught it on the rebound this morning. Thanx. Not every blogmeister would bother. Just shows your dedication.
I am pleased to see Martin doing well. Based on last year I thought his chances slim and none, though I should have realized a .301 average at “the Diamond” means more than normal. Its a rough park to hit in. Pitchers love it.
I’m looking forward to this final year. James, Reyes, Campillo, Carlyle, MORTON et. al. are gonna’ be tough at home.
DAVE, be sure to tell Gwinnett executives to design a ballpark that reflects conditions at “the TED.” It would be a great measuring stick to have your second-line players prepared for the Atlanta park’s situations when they arrive downtown or when they leave to work on problems they experienced in the majors.
The less personnel problems related to playing conditions, the more efficient the organization becomes. Just good business practice.
By NRBQ
April 3, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
DOB - R.E.M. Alert
R.E.M. was on The Colbert Report last night. It will be repeated a couple of times today on Comedy before tonight’s new episode.
By 1957 Braves Fan
April 3, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this
What happened to everyone who thought we didn’t get enough for Edgar?
By Shaun
April 3, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this
Overlord, 1) I don’t know if Prado’s advantage with the glove is enough to offset Johnson’s advantage with the bat.
2) Johnson has always had an edge in both OBP and SLG. Compare them by age, by level, by whatever. Why would Prado ever overtake him, other than because of a serious injury?
By Shaun
April 3, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
Efrim, I agree. Johnson, if healthy, will be the second-best second baseman in the National League in 2008, and for the next few years, behind Utley.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
DAVID O’BRIAN:
Your patience paragraph and lack thereof was what I saw from KC, Francouer, and Diaz in the Washington game. Escobar understood. Perez was there early to be had. Just wear him down in the beginning. 22 pitches in the firast vs. 29 for Hudson. Then afterward-forget it. Hudson put the petal to the metal and Perez should have been slammed by the offense.
Chip was just getting fat pitches to hit. I see he didn’t miss when Perez gave him the exact same pich the second go round. Jones doesn’t miss much. Fool me once shame on you. Fool me twice shame on me. Chip’s no fool that’s for sure.
By Lew
April 3, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this
MetroDude-The sewer runneth over as usual. Have the neighbors gotten tired of your stench yet? We sure as hell have.
If y’all are so sure that Tex is not clutch, then why, all winter long, have we been forced to listen to y’all Trolls tell us how he’ll be a Met next year? Why would you possibly want him when you have Mr. Clutch Del Gado already signed, right? Whatever.
As far as us being a different team without Smoltz and Hampton-the only problem there is that we HAVE Smoltz and Hampton (at least in two days You’ll see we have Smoltz). The problem for the Mets is, that after two games, the Mets DON’T have Moises Alou, El Duque, Duaner Sanchez or Pedro Martinez and are unlikely to have them for the next 1 1/2 to 2 months.
Again, all winter long we have been forced to listen to y’all tell us how Pedro would win 15 and pitch 180 innings and that Sanchez would stabilize that terrible bullpen. All winter long, we’ve been telling you they’d all be injured. Exactly which of us was correct in our assessment?
Laugh on you flipping hyena .
By AdirondackDave
April 3, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this
One more thing on Escobar. A while back there was some discussion, here or somewhere else, about the relative merits of Reyes and Escobar. The Mets SS is exciting and valuable for sure with that speed, but I am not at all certain that I would trade Escobar for him stright up. The Braves SS is pure gold. Stolen bases aside, he seems to have no upside limit. No, I don’t believe I would trade him for Reyes but I would like to hear from DOB and denizens on that question.
By McFann
April 3, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this
OK, Lew, no “Pow” or “Whap”, either. And I wouldn’t ever say “Biff”. Don’t worry.
Diaz, Francoeur, and McCann are not the same hitter. PERIOD.
Diaz cann take a bad swing and turn it into a hit. Francoeur takes a bad swing and turns it into a strike. McCann takes a bad swing and turns it into a foul ball.
Diaz is one of the better hitters on the team. (That .231 AVG is gettin’ ready to rise, my friends. And wait till we get to Florida!)
By N8
April 3, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this
uga-brave
“we used to develop arms. now we just try to pick up peoples discards….said it a long time ago, when we cut our SECOND TO NONE SCOUTING AND PLAYER DEVELOPMENT BUDGET, that it would get us eventually….WE HAVE not developed a QUALITY ARM in relief, or a starter in a long time.”
What’s the issue? Of the 3 HOF starters that CARRIED this team for a decade, ONLY ONE of them (Glavine) was “our guy”.
Smoltz was traded for. Maddux was a free agent. The way I look at it we got Soriano for HoRam. We put a TON of time and patience into waiting for him, and it didn’t pan out. So we traded him. Same with Gonzalez when he comes back (and is under contract through next year). We traded a pretty damn good hitting and fielding 1B in LaRoche for him.
Whether the arms we send out there are our guys WE developed or the “product” of a trade for guys we developed, what’s the frickin difference? We’re using our farms system to better the team.
We traded Andy Marte (so far a HUGE bust in the big leagues) for Edgar Renteria and cash. We then traded Renteria for JJJ, who is YOUNG and appears to be a very good pitcher.
So what’s the problem. We essentially traded Marte for JJJ, and how is THAT not a good thing for us? Not to mention we got 2 pretty stellar years out of Edgar in the process, not to mention a mentor for Yunel.
On the surface, you are correct about our system not producing big time arms (but it really never has. Just guys that would shine for a while and then move on, or be traded for other parts).
THAT being said, our system seems to have turned the page in producing BIG BATS, when other than Gant, Chipper, Justice and later Andruw and Furcal, wasn’t very consistent at producing offensive players.
It’s just flip-flopped. Either way, our system is STILL working better than most organizations have.
Our system is what allowed us to get Tex. Odalis Perez allowed us to get Sheff. Wainwright netted us Drew for a year (and he had a GREAT year). Millwood got us Estrada, who got us Oscar (who was a BIG part of the pen for the past couple of years). You get the picture.
My suspicion, is that if some of our own young pitching doesn’t shine this season and step up to be in the rotation next year, that Wren will AGAIN trade from our surplus of CF’s and offensive prospects to net another young pitcher that’s part of somebody else’s organization.
Gotta look at the BIG picture with the farm system. Not just what appears to be on the surface.
By Moby Grape
April 3, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
OK. Let’s trade than fumble-fingered flummox Johnson and start Prado at second. He can pick’em much better than Kelly and this line-up has enough power without KJ in it anyway. Ought be able to get a real good middle reliever for him.
By DAP
April 3, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this
bobbybraves pedro is out for 6-8 weeks. id say thats pretty serious. but youre right, the mets arent dead in the water because of it.
bobby’s cox Bennet, getting that DP in the 6th aroused BC i’m sure. hey, man…i dont know if bobby likes groundball specialists THAT much!
and everybody…about the bullepn situation…ive been alottle confused about how many arms bobby is going through in the pen, and the the post game interview, bobby said tha they had some extra arms down there, so he wanted to use them…do you guys think that by june our bullpen will be overhauled again, so bobby is using guys up now? other wise, why would he go through so many relievers? why would he take out moylan, who is great at getting groundballs, when laroche is up, who is great at hitting into double plays? (i know the lefty-righty thing, but its not like moylan gets lit up by anyone)
also, did anyone hear the discussion pete and skip were having about relievers on the radio last night. it was really interesting. skip mentioned that glavine was not happy at all about being pulled in game 6 of the world series.
i think bobby is great, but the way he uses the bullpen has always killed me.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
Shaun Prado just looks totally different with the bat. Last year he looked like Orr. Now he looks a lot more patient and i have seen him try to use all the field and trying to pick up a walk. Its early, but youll see, that kid will have a good all around year. He is under the radar and he will show he belongs him.
By N8
April 3, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this
Shaun
*”Shaun
Efrim, I agree. Johnson, if healthy, will be the second-best second baseman in the National League in 2008, and for the next few years, behind Utley.”
I didn’t go back and read all the posts, but I’ll assume in your above comment, you mean OFFENSIVELY? I won’t argue with that point. But I haven’t seen anything out of Kelly that would tell me he’s gonna come close to winning a gold-glove over there.
His work ethic, and willingness to learn a new position, is commended and he is more than adequate over there (especially with what he brings to the table with his bat), but nobody is gonna confuse him for a defensive star at 2B, IMO.
AdirondackDave
I’m with you on Escobar vs. Reyes.
Two totally different players in my book, and since I would NEVER want to admit that a Mets player is better than one of ours, I’ll stand by Yunel. LOL!
In all actuality I’m a “speed and SB” guy. So I absolutely LOVE how Reyes uses that speed to change games. He’s a pain in the azz, everytime he gets on base.
But the main reason, I like Yunel over Reyes is attitude, (or perceived attitude). Reyes was causing a stir with his tude last year, where Escobar has been NOTHING SHORT of a model teammate since coming to Atlanta (though there were rumored attitude issues with Blauser, if I remember correctly?).
But that’s where the magic of Edgar came in. We didn’t make the playoffs with Edgar on the roster. But his impact on this team will be felt for YEARS to come, due to his mentoring of young Yunel last year, and this past off-season, even AFTER he was traded. Priceless, if you ask me.
By brent a.
April 3, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this
I don’t understand this mentality that says, “Spring Training is for getting ready for opening day.”
That’s not exactly what it’s for. Spring training is for getting ready for the season.
Clearly, Teixeira is of the mind-set that rather than focusing exclusively on his swing in spring training, he should rather focus on strengthening his body, getting it ready for the grind of a 162 game seasons + play-offs.
His mind-set is that the trade-off between a potentially slow first two weeks, followed by a monstrous mid-April through September, is worth a lot more than being at his sharpest on March 30th, only to tail off at the end of the year.
Everyone goes through peaks and valleys during the season. EVERYONE.
It’s not as if Teixeira isn’t trying (in the first three games, he has a home run, and a double off the top of the wall!), he just isn’t in “trade deadline” form yet.
Throw in the fact that the guy stays healthy and will likely give you 158 games this year, and you’ll be very thankful that he took the time he did to get himself in top physical condition during March.
By Dadgum
April 3, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this
Prado seized the moment that is for sure. I have written on other blogs here over the last year. I don’t care what the fielding percentages are I will take Prado over Johnson day in and day out every time. And yes, I will take his defense over any Johnson advantage at the plate. That is what 2nd basemen are for. However don’t be fooled that Prado can’t be an offensive weapon either. To wit last night’s play.
Escobar and Prado have played together as the double play tandem in Richmond and know each others tendencies. That is huge chemistry. I really don’t want to sell KJ short so I will assume KJ will be back at 2nd shortly and have time to develop that chemistry with Yunel.
Oh yeah, Escobar is indeed special. Has a Furcal-like arm but will make a few more errors initially as he gains experience. No problem as Braves know he will make 25 errors or so on the season at a tough position. Escobar brings a great bat, speed, and excitement. DOB is right on the money about him.
By Greg in TN
April 3, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this
Morning gang…
Looks like Larry Bowa is in mid-season form already in this, the first week of April. The Dodger’s third base coach and former Padres and Phillies manager was tossed by umpire Ed Montague after a rather spirited discussion centering around Bowa not being in the coaching box.
After his ejection, it took an army of coaches to restrain Bowa, and the former shortstop dumped a cooler over in the dugout before exiting.
For all of this, Bowa has gotten a three game suspension from MLB and his wallet has been lightened by an unspecified amount. No one can argue that Bowa left his temper in Dodgertown to start the season.
By Epinephrine
April 3, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this
People that want Prado over KJ are just dead wrong. KJ has every bit as much of potential as Frenchy or Mac. Prado does not. KJ has a high OBP and power. Prado does not. What in the world is the problem with you people?
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
Efrim are you under the influence? KJ better than yunel? please, i beg you. Let me know what are the facts that support such a statement.
KJ better than Jeff? ill tell you what i just told Shaun, a player is not only his bat. Jeff is a gold glover. KJ will never win one. KJ just looks better in being patient and jeff looks ugly when he starts hacking, but jeff has learned to use the opposite field. Not a chance he is better than jeff.
McCann i cant defend.
By THB
April 3, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
The only issue I have with the Renteria trade depends on how Gorkys Hernandez does. He has a lot of potential, and if he becomes an above average/star player, or he’s used as a big piece in a trade, then this was one of the best trades this offseason, in all of baseball. My guess is that he is used after this season to bring in a solid top of the rotation starter, since Glavine may retire and Smoltz and Hampton can only give so many innings. Maybe somebody like Snell or Harden could be options, or maybe we go big with someone like Kazmir. I’m sure a package including Lillibridge and Hernandez along with others could bring a lot.
As for this season, we’ll be awesome if Chipper and Hampton are healthy, and if Gonzo comes in strong.
By McFann
April 3, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this
Greg—
Yeah, wasn’t that ejection pathetic? Good to read he was suspended!
Here’s a link to the video for those who want to watch it.
By Shaun
April 3, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
Overlord, Johnson has a significant edge in OBP and Francouer in SLG. And, Johnson is getting a bad wrap as a defensive player but he’s really not as bad as his reputation.
By Lew
April 3, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this
Jersey Gil-Dude, like I told Steve last night, they had the game on Extra Innings-You just have to go to each channel on the package individually and you will find it. Their numbering system is strange, but I promise-it was there-it was game twelve on our system, too, yet I watched it. For example-our package starts on 531 (even though up to 535 is still hockey). Because of this they are doubling up and ours was on 542. Check it out. I promise it’s there.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
Epinephrine my only problem with KJ is his glove. I just cant watch 162 holding my breath every time a bouncer is hit toward me. His glove is average at best. Didnt you noticed how cleanly braves played last night? The difference……. KJ was not the starting 2B.
By McFann
April 3, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
Overlord—
Why can’t you defend McCann?
By DAP
April 3, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
kelly johnson is the next chase utley. he will grow this year, next year, he will become a perennial all-star and perhaps an MVP candidate. yeah, im serious.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
April 3, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
Pedro’s injury in and of itself isn’t that big of a deal. The Mets won 88 games last year and he didn’t even pitch 30 innings. Where the problem could be is if El Duque doesn’t come back from injury or his luck finally runs out and begins showing his age. If the Mets have to use Sosa or Armas as their #5 starter they are in trouble. Also, they don’t have any pieces to trade to get any pitching. They could sign Claudio Vargas but that doesn’t exactly strike fear into hitters. I happen to believe Pedro will be out more than 4 to 6 weeks. If he is back before the middle of June I will be shocked!
By DAP
April 3, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
does anyone know what “beach” on the the sleve of the braves’ uni’s is all about? DOB? do you know?
By Lew
April 3, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
McFann-Batman thanks you Girl Wonder.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
McCann i cant defend.Overlord
Unbelievable how much some people take for granted (or worse) the 24-year-old catcher who’s a two-time All-Star with a .296 career average, 79 doubles, 48 homers, 211 RBI and a .943 OPS in 331 games.
Simply stunning how a few folks here act as though he’s just a decent catcher. If you can’t understand how good a hitting catcher he is, and no slouch behind the plate, then I gotta think you’re either not watching too closely, not listening to a lot of people who really and/or are simply discounting most of what you hear others who know the game say about him, not to mention how his peers around baseball view him.
There’s a reason the normally conservative Braves gave him the longest, richest contract they’ve ever given a player with such little service time, a reason it was the biggest contract in baseball history ever given to such a player before Tulowitzki’s deal this winter eclipsed it.
Is McCann the next Johnny Bench? No. Is he a damn good hitting catcher? Yes. And like I said, not bad behind the plate. Could use some work in a couple areas, and he’s working on them. But as a hitter, he’s very good. And has been very good since the day he got here.
By Shaun
April 3, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this
DAP, I don’t know if Johnson will surpass Utley. But I think he will be right behind him for the next several years.
By Lew
April 3, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this
Overlord-Dude, Kelly’s knee has been acting up and it has hurt him defensively. He’s an adequate 2B defensively. He will never win a Gold Glove, but he is fine. Prado’s bat will never be as good as Kelly’s. No matter how much some of y’all want to see the switch made, it just will not happen-except for injury.
Nathan-I’m in total agreement with you on this one. The purpose of your Minor League system is to provide players for your ML club. It does not matter one little bit whether they provide it directly by advancing to the big or by being trade material for filling immediate needs.
BTW-What happened to your fan from the other day? McN8 has been missing since she declared how great you were.
By Big Easy
April 3, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this
DAP, The “Beach” patch is a memorial patch for Jim Beauchamp, who was a coach in the Braves organization for a long time. He died of leukemia in December.
Jim Beauchamp Memorial Patch
~E~
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this
Richbrave, I like your suggestion of having the Gwinnett ballpark designed with the same playing-field dimensions as Turner Field. That’s a might fine suggestion. I’m actually going to bring that up with Bobby or Frank, see what they think of that. Makes sense to me, really does.
DAP, I answer the question on the blog two days ago and wrote a note about it in the paper (and online) again after the home opener. It’s to honor Jim Beauchamp, former player/coach/roving instructor who died Christmas day after long bout with leukemia. He was a beloved figured in the organization, one of Cox’s best friends but also close with a few generations of players, including young guys like Francoeur.
Beach was his nickname. He was a good man.
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
On developing starting pitching.
You guys, let me know if I am all wet, but this is my take on developing starting pitching. I didn’t do ANY research on this, just gut feel and knowing what I know about other teams pitching.
First, developing a top of the rotation pitcher (lets say a #1 or a #2 pitcher) is SO MUCH harder than developing a position player. A position player for the most part comes through the minor league system, either learns a few lessons along the way (how to hit effectively in the majors) and is either successful or not. Usually it takes a certain number of plate appearances. There are exceptions to this, but for the most part, after I would guess 1500 AB’s, a team will know what they have in a position player.
As for a pitcher, it is much more difficult to figure. Pitchers go through a learning process, often times re-inventing themselves after not being able to get beyond a specific plateau, or after injuring their arm/shoulder by a flawed throwing method.
For these reasons, often times a team will give up on a pitcher, and then he might successfully re-invent himself with his second (normally) or third team.
I bet N8 could come up with some sort of stats on how many #1 and #2’s are actually with their original teams.
I will admit it does seem that the Braves do not develop a lot of top flight rotation guys, but I am not sure if they are that much worse than the average major league team.
For the reasons I have stated above, we see a lot of Greg Maddux/John Smoltz/JJJ situations.
In the past, the Braves have used some of their top pitching talent to get other players that were needed (Adam Wainwright comes to mind). But, how many years did it take Wainwright to actually come around after we dealt him. And, how many others will never make it on other clubs (Harrison or the other kids sent to Texas for Teixeira).
With that all being said, I hope we get lucky and hold onto the right pieces we have coming up right now. It seems that there are a lot of talented arms in our RL, A and AA systems.
Have at it!
By Lew
April 3, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this
On the Minor League system-Seems to me a perfect example of how it works is Marte. He netted us two All Star caliber seasons from Edgar Renteria, who in turn netted us Jurrjens and Gorkys Hernandez.
So lets look at this realistically-Marte, a player destined to likely never fulfill his potential as a Major Leaguer (he sure hasn’t done it yet), was worth two All Star seasons at shortstop, a pretty damn good pitcher who is still 22 years old, and a really fast, great defensive center fielder. No. our farm system does not produce for us.
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this
Overlord
What do you have against Kelly?
He is a lot better than you give him credit for.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this
NRBQ, thanks for the tip. Hopefully I’ll catch the show before heading to the park. Right now Good Times is on Comedy Central.
Wouldn’t it be cool if JJ (the JJ on Good Times, not Jurrjens) answered the door and it was R.E.M. in the hallway, and they busted into “Radio Song” with KRS-One there to do the rap part?
(Wow, I’ve really gotta cut back on this cold medication I’ve been taking since last night.)
By BravesFanInRockies
April 3, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
Shaun and Jared,
I appreciate your puzzlement. But a lot of the denizens prefer the steady and sometimes flashy glove man who’s an OK offensive player to hitting machine who doesn’t embarrass himself in the field. I don’t, I’m with you, but they do, and persuading them to change their minds is like talking to a wall.
If KJ were a total butcher at 2B, and he isn’t, then you might pick a glove man like Prado who’s a decent average, mediocre on-base, low-power guy.
But KJ, when healthy, is an offensive machine, and he’s completely serviceable at 2B. Frankly, I’m not sure that will be his long-term position. I wouldn’t mind seeing him at 3B in a few years when Chipper retires.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this
THB if Jair is not a one year show and he keeps this great work……. i dont really care about anybody involved in that trade. Any time you get a great pitcher for prospects…. you have won lottery.
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this
Why are we so obsessed sometimes with comparing players with other players. McCann vs Frenchy vs KJ vs Escobar. They are all very, very good players (some better at their positions than others), but they all add to the sum of what is the 2008 Braves.
I sure hope Prado gives Bobby every reason to platoon him and KJ. I say that because if he does that well, then that can ONLY help the Bravos.
Go Marteen.
Is KJ as bad as some (Overlord seems to be overstating the point) would have you believe defensively? Nah. He is an average second baseman, considering that this is only his second season at the position, he can only get better.
I listened to XM last night, and Skip was talking about Prado. Everything about Prado is average. Nothing exceptional, but nothing terrible either. My guess is that in 3 years, he will be out of baseball. I hope not, but that is my guess.
By Big Easy
April 3, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this
I am just not understanding the thought here that Kelly is a defensive liability. Last year, his defense declined at the end of the year. This year, he botched a couple of plays. But I don’t get this “I hold my breath every time a ball’s hit his way” attitude some of you have. He’s a fine 2B. Makes many nice plays. Like some have said, he’s no gold-glover (neither is Yunel), but he is well above average.
~E~
By DAP
April 3, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this
johnson is three year younger than utley, but hes laready got the ability to hit as many homeruns as utley, i think we all agree kelly could hit in the 20s every year, his batting average is way off, but he walks more than utley, so his OBP isnt off by much. kelly’s was .375 in ‘07, ultey’s was .410. utley’s slugging is way higher to, but with more homers, kelly could be right there.
shaun youre probably right about kelly not surpassing utley, but he will be right there with him after this year, i believe.
By Epinephrine
April 3, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this
DOB, why in the world would you take my touting of Kelly Johnson as a slight against Brian McCann? Mac is my favorite Braves player, believe me, I meant no disrespect. But if you look at KJ’s numbers in the minors, his ability to bounce back from TJ surgery and turn in a banner year apart from the month of September, and his unfailing dedication to improving himself-it just baffles me why people are looking a gift horse in the mouth. Nothing I said could possibly have been construed to be disparaging towards McCann.
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this
DOB Nancy Reagan had it all wrong. Just say “maybe” to drugs!
(currently enjoying much cold/cough medications myself!)
By Cooper S
April 3, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
The REM interview on Colbert is hilarious. Especially when Stephen asks Michael why he doesn’t write more songs about girls… The look on Stipe’s face is priceless.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this
Sorry Epinephrine. Then I took it the wrong way. My bad.
By Epinephrine
April 3, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
Moby Grape Actually, it’s your logic that doesn’t stand up to scrutiny. First, let’s take a look at your argument, which, by the way, completely misses the entire point of the debate.
You argument, as a syllogism, would be something like, BP’s analysis of Esco was horribly wrong, all scout’s that make horribly wrong pronouncements are more likely to err in other pronouncements, therefore, the analysis of JJJ is more likely to be wrong.
The argument falls on its face for two reasons. First, different scouts were responsible for the JJJ and Esco evaluations-one for the Tigers, and one for the Braves. So your second step is a non-sequitur. Second, because errors in evaluation are inevitable in a guide that gives evaluations for every player, making one wrong pronouncement is in no way indicative of the overall accuracy of the guide. Moreover, given BP’s general accuracy over the years, the “preponderance of the evidence” bodes in favor of my argument, not yours.
But apart from all that, your condescending post took up an argument that was never on the table. The assertion was that only people within the Braves and Tigers thought Jair was anything more than a mid-level starter. Therefore, the accuracy of the prognosticator was never at issue. The question was, where there people outside the Braves and Tigers organizations that believed JJJ could be an eventual 2 or 3 starter? Now, I confess that at least with regards to TennPaul, there was ambiguity over “mid-level” starter. I thought he was saying something more disparaging than he was. But that doesn’t change the fact that you rode in on a high horse to take up the cause of an argument that never even existed.
On a more general note, if you really found my post “rude”, I don’t know what to tell you. I am sorry if the word “asinine” shocks your conscience, but this is the internet. It is not a place known for social niceties. If that is problematic to you, I’d suggest you start taking posts with more of a grain of salt.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
Shaun are yo sure his glove is not as bad as his reputation? Im very tolerant with braves players, cause i love the braves. But his defense makes me as sick as AJs circus and acrobatic strikeouts. Or as James repetitive 4 and 5 inning outings. I repeat, i like KJ as a player, but we cant afford the luxury of a 2B that drops once every 5 games a softly hit grounder right at him.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this
Don’t know why I bother, but here goes….
“I didnt beleive it but it seems true. Your precious Tex is not clutch.” MetroMan
Seriously, is that all you got? Teixeira hit .405 (53-for-131) with runners in scoring position last season, and .327 with a .441 OBP in those situations throughout his career.
Now run along. Go back to monitoring the Mets infirm. Leave Braves talk to those who know the team.
By Big Easy
April 3, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
I also agree with a couple of you on the farm system. Seems like we are doing OK. We don’t have a lot of pitching in our system, but we have the pieces required to get the pitching we need.
And I also think that our system has produced in ways not really foreseen. You expect to develop some good, solid talent in your system. But players like McCann and Yunel are special. Guys that come in, and are immediately productive, with no real drop-off, and seemingly no ceiling. Those guys don’t show up very often, and you have to take advantage when they do.
Don’t get me wrong, I am not discounting anyone here. Francoeur is my favorite player, but he McCann (and he isn’t supposed to be). He will struggle to hit, because his tendencies are to swing for it all. He works hard, and is an excellent glove, and therefore will be a key cog for a long time. Same deal with KJ, except his defense requires more work, but his offense is more natural. Great players, and we are fortunate to have such a crop of young, talented baseball players on one team.
Bottom line, we’ve got a great, talented, young team. Let’s enjoy it while we can!
~E~
By Epinephrine
April 3, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
No worries DOB, I’m in full agreement with you over people not giving Mac the respect he deserves. Especially given the fact that he played hurt all last year, still put up good numbers, and never even thought about making excuses. He will be a cornerstone of this team for a long time, and for good reason.
By Workinlkeadawg
April 3, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this
Will the Braves ever have a decent BP? I’m not gonna dog Cox anymore but Reyes should have stayed with the club. Hell, I know he needs the work. Don’t you think he’d get plenty of innings with Atlanta’s BP? Hampton is probably one of the most over paid players ever. But that was financial stupidity by the Rockies and even the Braves. It’s easy to be a critic but wouldn’t you have signed your name on his contract? I hope Mike wins and isn’t pulled to early or late by Cox for his cowpen. I really am pulling for Hampton and Gonzo to get well. I love this team, but so much anxiety follows them.
By CT
April 3, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this
DOB, Just curious, how do you feel about The Grateful Dead.
By Big Easy
April 3, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this
arrg…that was supposed to read: Don’t get me wrong, I am not discounting anyone here. Francoeur is my favorite player, but he isn’t McCann (and he isn’t supposed to be).
~E~
By Braveheart
April 3, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
I can’t take it anymore.
The Braves have 5 young players at catcher, first, second, short, and right who are amongst very best of the young players at those positions in the entire sport.
But scrubby Marteeeeeeeeeeeen Prado gets a few damn hits and all of a sudden he’s the next Eddie Collins.
I’ll take the next Chase Utley anyday over the next Fernando Vina.
Cannibalizing your young is a sin and makes you a bad fan and an unknowledgeable one at that.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
I didnt said i have something against McCann. He is a great young player as DOB and everybody else say. I just think he is not superior to KJ. He has learned to call games really good. Patient and power (very good combo), but his defense and his hustle is something he needs to work on…..a lot. Arm not great nor his glove.
Thing is that of all our young players to me it is clear it goes as this:
1- Yunel, he is just a natural, a monster. His offense is just impresive, make no mistake he will be a superstar by the end of next year. And i would suggest you take a good look at his defensive errors, cause you wont be able to see much errs by the end of this year.
Jeff, his defense has no substitute. Complete package once his glove is on. His has 2 100 RBI seasons and he is still learning how to bat and how to use the opposite field and he is doing well in that aspect.
McCann and KJ for a tie, they are good young hitters, lots of power for their respective positions, good AVG for their positions, but defense is average at best. We all know defense wins championship. Weak glove at 2B and C positions and a weak arm behind the plate could spell another long offseason. I like them both a lot and love to watch them play, but they are not better than jeff nor yunel.
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this
Anybody else out there think KJ’s defense is as bad as Overlord states???
OL, I think you are WAY over stating Kelly’s shortcomings. WAY overstating!
Give it a rest, cause we aren’t drinking your Kool-Aid.
By Braveheart
April 3, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
I meant to say I’ll take a poor man’s Chase Utley anyday over a poor man’s Fernando Vina.
By Wantin the New Jersey
April 3, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
DOB
i read the article on the jerseys, but i don’t live in atlanta so i can’t buy em at the stadium, and they aren’t available online yet
any news on the jersey’s availability
need one for when they are down in miami asap! lol
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
DOB i never questioned McCanns bat nor his ability to call a game. We cant ask for a better offensive catcheIt would be greedy. But admit it, his arm scares no one. He will not throw out rollins, reyes, castillo, utley, ramirez, etc. And that is a big problem within the division.
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this
I really like Prado too, but when people on this blog say that he should be the 2nd baseman, it makes me want to knock Prado’s ability. He is a solid player and important to this team, but by no means is he a everyday player for the Atlanta Braves.
By Braveheart
April 3, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
Martin Prado is also not exactly a defensive whiz himself. Prado is decent with his glove. Not great at all. It’s just little Martin Prado, a punch and judy hitter and an average gloveman. He can’t play shortstop. If he could, he would have been in the majors last season. There’s a reason why he can’t play short. He lacks the defensive skills necessary to be a top defensive middle infielder or utility man. Such a shame too. He also doesn’t possess the bat to make up for it.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this
Wayne in Utah youll see what im talking about very soon. I have plenty of memories from last year when kelly looked very bad. Plenty. Ill drink all of my kool-Aid, but ill will remind you with regularly what i have been stating last few days.
By Epinephrine
April 3, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this
Overlord, given how much Mac worked on his arm over the winter, and his nice pick off of McLouth the other night, I’d go easy on those arm predictions for the moment.
I would also put Mac at least equal with Frenchy. I’d put KJ maybe a hair away from those two, with Yunel, perhaps, just above. If I had my choice between Mac and Frenchy, though, I think I would lean Mac.
The point of all this, though, is that we have a great cadre in Yunel, Mac, Jeff, and KJ. All are young, all have very high ceilings, and nobody should be petitioning for any of these players to be traded or benched. The notion is just flat out crazy.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
Efrim i never said Prado should be our everyday 2B (in case you were including me in your statement).
By Lee in S. GA
April 3, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
I hope Prado continues to do well for one simple reason, not to replace K.J., but to provide valuable trade bait by mid-season if needed.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
Harold Reynolds says he thinks pedro will be back pitching in 2 weeks, he analyzed the video and he thinks its not a bad injury. Some other analysts think it will be between 4 to 8 weeks.
By Workinlkeadawg
April 3, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this
The Braves position players aren’t the problem. Hell now that KJ got hurt Cox can platoon 2b instead of LF. JS needs to talk to him and the PC. God knows King would still be coming out of the BP if some suit didn’t download him. Rockin’ Louie is sorely missed and needed.
By DCbrave
April 3, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
richbrave - I loved your idea of designing/building the Gwinnett ballpark with the same playing-field dimensions as Turner Field. I hope the Braves brass seriously consider it.
BTW, somebody once pointed out to you: the man’s name is O’Brien not O’BRIAN. If you knew it already, and did it on purpose, then never mind.
By Original Jon
April 3, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
Hey MetroMan If Tex isn’t clutch, then why do all Mets fans drool over the thought of him becoming a free agent and possibly playing for the Mets? If he’s not clutch, why would the Mets want him, because he can hit a homer? Give me a break.
By Billsnv
April 3, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this
Wantin: To order your very own Braves Clubhouse Collection catalog, call 1(800)433-BRAVES (2728)
By Moby Grape
April 3, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this
Moby Grape Actually, it’s your logic that doesn’t stand up to scrutiny. First, let’s take a look at your argument, which, by the way, completely misses the entire point of the debate.Epinephrine
Sigh. whatever. your logic is impeccable. Not! Because you have one source no matter how unconvincing to oppose all that other ones, that certainly makes those other guys asses, no question. Solipsism at it’s grandest.
By N8
April 3, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this
Lew
“Nathan-I’m in total agreement with you on this one. The purpose of your Minor League system is to provide players for your ML club. It does not matter one little bit whether they provide it directly by advancing to the big or by being trade material for filling immediate needs.”
EXACTLY. I’m glad somebody get’s it.
Just look at our everyday “8”. Kotsay and Diaz (or did we trade for Diaz?), are the only ones that weren’t homegrown or aquired with the resources of our farm. Tex cost us a WHOLE BUNCH of prospects. As for Kotsay, he’s merely stop-gap to Schafer. Wren knows it. Bobby knows it. Kotsay knows it. As do the fans and Schafer.
With Glavin in the fold, our rotation consists of 5 guys that were drafted by us, or traded for with our prospects. In Smoltz’s case, HE was the prospect that we got for Doyle.
Would I like a hot prospect that we drafted and developed to come up and dominate? Sure. Who wouldn’t? But isn’t Francoeur, Yunel, McCann, Kelly and Chipper enough “stars” on our roster that we did that with?
Not to mention Glavine?
As for your next comment:
“BTW-What happened to your fan from the other day? McN8 has been missing since she declared how great you were.”
I must have missed that. I don’t even know what you are talking about. Link?
By Workinlkeadawg
April 3, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this
The Braves have to have Tex, Chipper, Franceur, McCann and anyone who can get RBI’s. Face it the Braves pen can’t even hold a 3 run lead. Mike I hope you have a good lead before Bobby pulls you.
By Epinephrine
April 3, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this
Way to address the merits, Moby. But again, I had more than one source. Olney, Gammons, BP and BA all call JJJ better than what I understood “mid-level” start to be. That was the debate. Considering that these sources happen not to exist only in my mind, I’d say your word choice is poor. But perhaps that is a defense mechanism; you believe using an arcane word might obscure the intellectual bankruptcy of your position.
By Billsnv
April 3, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
N8 - How are things in Bismarck? I lived there for 15 years. Is the bb team still the Wizards? Go Braves!
By Shaun
April 3, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this
Overlord, so Cox should play Prado over Johnson or platoon them even if Johnson’s offensive advantage more than makes up for a defensive disadvantage.
Say Johnson makes an error. That will cost the Braves a baserunner or a run at worst. He has four, five, maybe even six chances to make up for that at the plate.
I doubt Johnson is going to make four, five, six misplays in a game.
Last year he got 223 hits plus walks. As bad as you think his defense was, you certainly can’t say he botched 223 plays.
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this
Overlord: You are definitely a glass half empty sort of guy. And not too astute in your observations either.
For pushing the KJ defensive issues today, I would like to nominate you for the “Your and idiot” award this morning.
The horse it dead, dude. Leave it alone.
Sorry about that!
By Original Jon
April 3, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this
N8 - We did trade for Diaz, we traded Ricardo Rodriguez for him. And actually, we traded Renteria (who wasnt drafted by us or a prospect of ours) for Jurrjens.
By TennesseePaul
April 3, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
But scrubby Marteeeeeeeeeeeen Prado gets a few damn hits and all of a sudden he’s the next Eddie Collins.
Thought I’d hop on the ol’ blog this morn’ and see what’s going on. Saw that post and it made it all worth while. Thank you Braveheart.
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this
IKEA Dawg Oops, our pen held a 1 run lead last night for over 3 innings. Man you are way over your head. Go back to the shallow end of the pool.
By McFann
April 3, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
DOB—
I want to thank you for your comments about McCann. I don’t know why Overboard wouldn’t defend him.
I, too, do not think he is the second coming of Johnny Bench. He’s got a good ways to go before he cann sit (squat) next to Bench. But he’s a very good hitting catcher, and I’m sooo glad he got that contract!!
Me, too, man!!
By Lew
April 3, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this
Nathan-She posted under the name of Christine, I believe-in the past couple of days. She was going on about how your posts had been the greatest over the past year. I named her McN8. I guess we would all like to have a groupie-or two. Seems you found yours.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
April 3, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
Are you people really judging this bullpen on more or less one game? Give me a break? What about last night? Moylan, Acosta, and Resop came in and held the lead for Jurrjens last night. Even before the offense put the game out of reach. Good Lord, chill out, folks! Some of you act like it is August and the bullpen has been blowing leads all year. We are three damn games into the season!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Original Jon
April 3, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
N8- But meant to also say that you are right on every other aspect of that.
By TJ
April 3, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this
Prado has been playing 2B all his life. KJ has been playing it for 18 months. If Prado is a little more comfortable with the routine plays, it’s probably because he’s had about 1 million more repetitions with them.
I think KJ will develop into at least a league average defensive 2B, and probably better than that. Hubbard taught Marcus Giles to play 2B, but it took more than 1 year.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this
If KJ has a knee, why rush him? his is not your prototype leadoff hitter. Yunel can make up for his absence and put matt at the #2 hole. Martin could be 7th or 8th. IF he has a knee, give him some rest. IF he gets better and can play 100% then no need to use prado. But if you have good players to fill the hole like prado and gotsay, why act as if braves offense depends on kellys offense? Let him heal, then he would be able to field better even if not a gold glover.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this
Billsnv, thanks for answering the question about jersey availability. Miami, if that number he gave doesn’t work, then just Google Braves Catalog or new Braves jerseys, I don’t know what else to tell you. Use the number, though. It should work.
By McFann
April 3, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this
Wayne—
I think Overboard makes a good nominee.
N8—
I’m kinda wondering about the “McN8” thing, too. Whoever it is/was is stealing my model for a username…although a have this feeling in my stomach that he’s talking about me…but what in terra did I SAY??
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this
But he’s a very good hitting catcher, and I’m sooo glad he got that contract!!
I wonder why dont you mention his good defense also.
BTW, Im glad about his contract too McFann
Wayne, how exactly would you rank KJs defense? average? above avg? below avg? good? great? Seriously, please answer that question, i just want to know what do you think. Obviously you dont think at best is average (like i do).
By David-ATL14
April 3, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this
Dare I ?
What the hades. Wade in.
KJ vs Prado.
As usual we have the two extremes here with each side overstaing their favorite’s ability.
KJ is a good offensive player. Not great, not elite. Has a chance to be a very solid contributor with the stick for many years.
He’s not Chase Utley though. Not now not ever more than likely.
He’s not the #2 2b in the NL. Utley and Phillips are clearly better. Hudson if healthy is better also.
That being said though he has a chance to be a very good player for the forseeable future with Atlanta.
Position change is more than likely down the roiad but not for now.
Prado has the makings of a very fine utility player. Could start for some teams in certainsituations. Has improved immensley.
Still though a utility Infielder by most accounts.
In closing edge to KJ, but let’ s not get carried away in thinking he’s an elite player. He’s not yet there.
Also as a n aside there is the usual stathead fawning over Johnson, same people who lambasted JS when he had the temerity to release Giles.
Stathead after stathead lining up to pillory JS.
How’s that working out?
We always tend to overstate our own.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this
DAVID O’BRIAN:
Please. Buildings are the ONE thing in baseball that can be controlled. I’m assuming the Braves have made these moves regarding the minor locations and new parks to facilitate the business end of things. I’m talking not only general configuration of the field, but especially the lighting positions, the playing surface, foul areas, the type of grass even. This would really allow the organization to get a feel for the prospect, or the player trying to work on problems. Good luck with that. Anything to help my team.
By DAP
April 3, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
DOB thanks for the info in the “beach” patch. i missed it before!
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
MOBY GRAPE:
The grapes on the vine are not quite ripe yet. I think I’d wait a bit to pull the trigger on that trade.
By DCbrave
April 3, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
Lew and N8 I’m a bit confused, maybe because I’ve not been on the blog long enough. So, N8 is Nathan? Lew kept addressing to Nathan, but I don’t see Nathan’s post.
Also, Lew, did you mean “Christy?”
BTW, N8, I noticed that you were missing from the blog for quite some time yesterday, and I remember you mentioned a family member’s scheduled surgery. Hope all’s well.
By Moby Grape
April 3, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this
Way to address the merits, Moby. But again, I had more than one source. Olney, Gammons, BP and BA all call JJJ better than what I understood “mid-level” start to be.Epinephrine
let’s just go past it. I probably over-reacted.
By KC
April 3, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this
Robert(CIP): “Are you people really judging this bullpen on more or less one game? Give me a break?”
You are absolutely right.
The bullpen wasn’t bad on opening day. Moylan gave up a solo homer. It happens. I wouldn’t call it a bad night for the bullpen. And last night was a very good night for the pen.
There are some questions here…
Is Acosta ready for the pressure of being a counted on late-inning guy?
And what kind of number will Resop put up out of the pen?
What will we get from Blaine Boyer? (He was a tale of two pitchers from one inning to the next the other night)
BUT I think we know what to expect from Soriano and Moylan… and even (lefty specialist) Ohman. I think the pen will be solid overall. And it has the potential to be great (particularly when Gonzo returns) if Acosta and Resop can use their great stuff effectively.
If you want to call the bullpen a bit of a question mark at the moment… ok, fine. I’ll go with you on that for now.
But it is ridiculously premature to call the bullpen a “weakness” for the Braves.
By Yars
April 3, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
Overlord….I agree with you in that KJ is not your typical leadoff hitter. I was kinda hoping Bobby wouldn’t even think about batting KJ leadoff this season. I think KJ could put up better numbers in the #7 or #8 spot in the order. In a perfect world, I would like to see KJ hit in the #2 hole. Yunel can hit anywhere. Put him in the leadoff spot & he’ll still get hits. now playing: ghost in you by the psychedelic furs.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
April 3, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this
Of course, if Gwinnett plays it’s cards right, they will be in position to become the home of the Major league club when the Braves realize that the majority of their fans are from the suburbs and not the city. Don’t laugh… It can happen…
By N8
April 3, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this
Billsnv
“N8 - How are things in Bismarck? I lived there for 15 years. Is the bb team still the Wizards? Go Braves!”
Just fine. Gonna get “up” to 60 today. Not bad for first week of April.
Yes. The Wizzards are still the team hear in town. They are no-longer part of the CBA, but the NBA “developmental” league. They won the D-League championship last year, in their first season in the league.
One the most exciting sporting events I’ve ever attended, and I’m not really a B-Ball fan. My kids LOVE it. Darius Rice dropped 50-some points in the championship game, including 3 or 4 3pointers in the last 2 minutes to force OT.
They got a kid from this year’s squad, Blake Ahearn that just signed his second 10-day contract with the Heat. Kid can play.
Lew
Yes. I did see (and respond to) Chritine’s post. Just didn’t see where you nick-named her McN8.
Original Jon
“N8 - We did trade for Diaz, we traded Ricardo Rodriguez for him. And actually, we traded Renteria (who wasnt drafted by us or a prospect of ours) for Jurrjens.”
Thanks for the info on the Diaz trade. Forgot about that. True on the Renteria trade. But we traded Andy Marte (who was a TOP prospect of not only us, but all of baseball), for Renteria. So the “end result” is that we traded Marte for JJJ and Hernandez, along with being “allowed” to rent Renteria for 2 years.
Not a bad trade AT ALL, if JJJ ends up being as good as he looks like he will be.
Add to that, Gorkys Hernandez, will more than likely be trade for another area of need, with Francoeur in RF, and Schafer being ready for CF next year, at the latest.
“N8- But meant to also say that you are right on every other aspect of that.”
Thanks.
By Christy
April 3, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this
I don’t think I’ve ever been accused of being a groupie before. I’m not quite sure how to take that, but whatever.
I do enjoy N8’s posts, and sscribes’ and Lew’s to for that matter… wonder if that makes me tramp instead of groupie…
By the way - anyone else listening to the Nats Vs. Phils game on Gameday Audio… 5 - 0 Nats over Phils in the 1st… : )
By OrlandoFan
April 3, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
For what it’s worth, Orlando Sentinel today had a nice profile of Braves GM Frank Wren.
Here’s a link to it:
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orl-wren0308apr03,0,4302227.story
By DAP
April 3, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
David-ATL14 brandon phillips better than kelly? wrong. look a little deeper into the stats.
they hit for about the same average, but kelly walks more than twice as much as phillips, this has a better OBP and OPS+. phillips hit 30 homers to kelly’s 16, but had about 130 more AB’s.
phillips is a fine player, but i would take kelluy over him offensively, especially on this team.
kelly WILL be the next chase utley. he will have a solid 2008, and then bust it open in 2009.
By bravesfan
April 3, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
There is a very good young pitcher pitching in the D’backs-Reds game, Johnny Cueto. You might want to watch it.
By N8
April 3, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
DCbrave
“Lew and N8 I’m a bit confused, maybe because I’ve not been on the blog long enough. So, N8 is Nathan? Lew kept addressing to Nathan, but I don’t see Nathan’s post.”
Yes. I am both. Lew is like the fatherly person that refuses to call his kids by the nick-name their friends give them (or some silly alpha-numerical name I gave myself).
“BTW, N8, I noticed that you were missing from the blog for quite some time yesterday, and I remember you mentioned a family member’s scheduled surgery. Hope all’s well.”
My mother is scheduled for surgery in a few weeks. But thank you for asking.
Yesterday was just the first in a busy evening of work. I watched the first few innings of the game (and posted once or twice), and DVR’s the rest of the game and watched it after mid-night when I got home from band practice.
Also thought the blog could use a break from me, as well after 48 hours of ranting. LOL!
Besides. Haven’t you figured it out yet? If there is nothing to b!tch about, I’ve got nothing to say.
Just kidding.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this
NATS-PHILLIES:
5-0 Nats after 1. Top second. Bases full of Nats 0 outs. Moyer getting rocked. Three errors on Phillies so far. Utley, Rollins. Pop out 1 away top of second. DP ends inning.
By Epinephrine
April 3, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this
Moby, fair enough. Obviously I was wrong from the outset, because TennPaul was calling him a 3 starter to begin with.
Anyway, do we think KJ gets the start tonight, or one more day off?
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
Correction. Pop-up was dropped. Strickout to end half-inning for Moyer. Three runs earned for Nats in Philly. Computor is upstairs. T.V. is down. I’ll update changes in the score.
GO R-BRAVES. 3:45 start today.
By Original Jon
April 3, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
Hey David Does it annoy you that richbrave is constantly writing your name in all caps, and is constantly spelling it wrong, Every…..Single…..Time…..? Just curious
By beekay
April 3, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this
N8 I was just curious when you mentioned dropping 3500 on those NBDL tickets, how much are the face value and where are your seats. The few NBDl games that I have seen on the NBA channel look like they are played in front of empty stands.
By Big Easy
April 3, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
I do enjoy N8’s posts, and sscribes’ and Lew’s to for that matter… wonder if that makes me tramp instead of groupie… Christy
That made me laugh. Good stuff…
The Nats look dangerous this year…
~E~
By Shaun
April 3, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
Yars, what’s wrong with Johnson in the leadoff role? He gets on base at a good rate. Why would you waste one of your best on-base guys at the bottom of the order?
By bravesfan
April 3, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
Johnny Cueto 4 innings, perfect game, with 7 strikeouts in his MLB debut.
By MGL
April 3, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
I think Kelly will be out a few days. I heard the Assistant GM for 2nd base (Overlord) wants him in some intensive training to see if he can be as good as Prado.
By DCbrave
April 3, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
NATS-PHILLIES: 5-0 Nats after 1. Top second. Bases full of Nats 0 outs. Moyer getting rocked. Three errors on Phillies so far. Utley, Rollins. Pop out 1 away top of second. DP ends inning. - richbrave
How about these Nats!! Living in metro DC, I almost wanted to root for them, but they are going to be the fourth place eventually.
Did you notice my earlier post to you? Never mind about the O’Brian vs O’Brien. I’m sure you did it on purpose. I was silly of me.
By KC
April 3, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
NL EAST STANDINGS AT THE END OF APRIL:
Here’s what you’ll see on May 1…
1 - Atlanta 18-11
2 - New York 17-11 (1/2 game back)
3- Phili 15-13 (2-1/2)
4 - Washington 13-15 (4-1/2)
5 - Florida 11-17 (6-1/2)
KC has spoken. It will be so. =)
By Yars
April 3, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
Anyone know off hand what spot in the order KJ usually hit in the minors? now playing: only happy when it rains by garbage.
By Cherokee
April 3, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
But apart from all that, your condescending post took up an argument that was never on the table. The assertion was that only people within the Braves and Tigers thought Jair was anything more than a mid-level starteEpi
what a crock. I was in at the start . I replied to a poster saying that nobody outside those organizations etc. It seems to me that anybody with a normal level of intelligence and some experience on blogs and boards would realize that nobody but would likely not mean literally not one single organism of any kind anywhere, but would be interpreted as a figurative generalization meaning* a significant preponderance. Just like when you say *everybody knows it’s understood that it does not mean that every single sentient being actually knows but that most people know. By arguing a semantic technicality you are trying to change the discussion from one about what most non-Braves believe to an argument about whether of not you could find just one source that did believe. It is you that are changing the issues.
You claim that you misunderstood what was meant and obviously whether it’s true or not you are indicating that you actually thought it was about an absolute instead of a marked consensus. LOL. and deemed that you could call us asinine over that.
In case there is still any misconception on your part as to the meaning of the discussion, it was that most non-Brave/Detroit personnel see him as a middle of the order(read #3) starter, not as a future stud #1 or #2 that has been suggested since he became a brave. So the worthiness and number both would have relevance to me.
Of course he might actually become a #2 or so but that was not a part of the discussion. It was about how most projected him, and most project him as a #3 including your cited BBA.
I’d say that you are a worm trying to squirm, but I don’t use the internet as an excuse to be discourteous, so I won’t say that. :-)
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
Top of the 4th, 5-1 Nats. Bergmann pitching for D.C. Chris Coste hits first ML homer for Phillies leading off bottom of the third.
By David-ATL14
April 3, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this
DAP
That would be you that is wrong.
Phillips is better across the board than Johnson.
More power, better speed, much better glove. Glove isn’t even close.
That KJ walks more, comes nowhere close in this case to offsetting Phillips advantages across the board.
Fatal flaw of statheadism. The “walk trumps all”
If played in a vaccum and two players are equal in skill sets then yes plate discipline could be a determining factor.
If in this case you are trying to imply that solely because Johnson walks more that that makes up for every other advantage Phillips has then you are wrong beyond any comprehension.
By ssiscribe
April 3, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this
bravesfan: Cueto is nasty good, mid-90s fastball, great changeup. Dude is really pitching well and is mowing through the D’Backs lineup.
Cueto is perfect through five innings in his MLB debut.
3-0 Reds.
—30—
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
MGL i never said Prado was as good as KJ, i just said Kellys glove sux and it is the truth, like it or not. Prados glove at 2B is superior. That is a fact also. Offensively KJ is far superior. There is not a single lie on those words, is there?
By Big Easy
April 3, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
My guess on KJ is he sits out today, possibly pinch hits, and is back in the starting lineup for the Mets series.
~E~
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
DAVID O’BRIEN:
Another poster just mentioned I had reverted to an “A” again. Sorry, I forget. My bad.
By ncscoots
April 3, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Christy, you use “tramp” as if it’s a bad thing, LOL. Personally, I could see where “blog tramp” has a certain cachet that would be appealing. :-)
Of course, the fine gentlemen in this forum would never even form the thought of “tramp” in context with you, let alone use the term. The distaff side of the blog has long been its best, believe me.
By McFann
April 3, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
Over(board)—
Good point. I didn’t mention his defense. (I was in a hurry for lunch, you know how it is.) His D last year wasn’t exactly “top notch”. But I believe that this year, barring injury, he will be much better. Remember that pick-off the other night? Man, that was good! (But I wish it counted towards his CS%.)
I think the real test will come this weekend, when we play the Mets. I have no doubt that Jose Reyes will try to steal a few bases, and they’ve got a couple other quickies, don’t they? Up next comes Colorado (I’ll be watchin’ for ya on Tuesday, Wayne). I don’t know a whole lot about their speed, but I’m sure it’s there.
To be honest, I can’t wait till the Mets get here, so we cann get a good sample of what to expect from Brian’s defense (and the way we fare against them). It should be fun. We got the top of our rotation going against Maine, Pelfrey, and TBD.
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Tyler (Conyers, GA): How in the world can you say David Wright is better than Chipper when Chipper is healthy? In 2007 Chipper beat Wright in AVG (.337 vs. .325) OBP (.425 vs. .416) SLG (.604 vs. .546) FPCT (.971 vs. .954) and ZR (.797 vs. .771). It is not even close who is the better player when both are healthy and on the field.
Keith Law: (2:03 PM ET ) Um, no. Jones has been a bad defensive third baseman for years now, while Wright is among the best. And Shea Stadium kills power hitters. Try again.
DOB
If you ever come across Keith Law, please ask him why he hates the Braves.
Thanks.
By MGL
April 3, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Overlord, all is well, just kidding you.
By ssiscribe
April 3, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
Justin Upton just busted up Cueto’s perfect game with a leadoff homer in the top of the sixth, a liner into the seats in left.
3-1 Reds.
—30—
By N8
April 3, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
beekay
“N8 I was just curious when you mentioned dropping 3500 on those NBDL tickets, how much are the face value and where are your seats. The few NBDl games that I have seen on the NBA channel look like they are played in front of empty stands.”
My dad and I split an “executive” table. It seats four. I pay for three of the seats for my boys and I and he pays for his. However I don’t usually go do to working late. But it’s still a “write-off” for my business, as with those tables, comes a banner that can advertise whatever it is you want to advertise.
It is a table that sits behind one end of the court. There are “sideline” tables that sit right behind the hoop, then ther is a section of “raised” tables behind it. That’s where we are.
As for how many people show up? Our arena only holds about 10,000 people for concerts and what not at capacity. But for the B-Ball games, the “curtain” off the upper levels so it doesn’t look so empty. Usually on a weeknight there is anywhere from 2500 to 3500 people that show up. On the weekends, it’s usually around 4500 or so.
For the playoffs and championship game last year, there was a little over 5000 I believe, but I could be wrong.
To my knowledge, we have the best attendance in the league. But that’s more than likely due to NOTHING else to “support”, now that Virgil Hill is a washed up 40-something boxer. LOL!
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
Hey David Does it annoy you that richbrave is constantly writing your name in all caps, and is constantly spelling it wrong, Every…..Single…..Time…..? Just curiousOriginal Jon
No, you know what annoys me? It annoys me that my back is locked up right now, first time in three years, and I have a head cold, first time in two years, and overall I’d rather put a bullet in my temple than lift my computer bag in and out of my car and cover the game on what promises to be a chilly, wet night at Turner Field, where for some reason they’ll probably keep the windows open so we can soak in the atmosphere of 17,000 people turning out for the series finale against the Pirates.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
6-1 Nats top of fourth. Chad Durbin on in relief of Moyer. Gets final out of half-inning. Run unearned(subject to final scoring ruling).
By McFann
April 3, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
We’re knocking the Braves’ defense? Check out the Phillies! Four errors—and I think that’s in one inning!
By KC
April 3, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
Efrim: Please tell me Keith Law did not really say that! Please tell me you’re kidding around, and you made that up.
Please tell me that.
I would hate to think anyone could get paid to that uninformed and extraordinarily wrong.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
McFann Ill admit it, he made a perfect defensive play on that pick-off, i forgot about that one. Hope you are right and his bad CS% had something to do with beat up 2007.
Hey, in case u missed it, it is Overlord. (just kidding).
By Mac
April 3, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
I just lost any respect I might have ever had for Keith Law’s opinion. During his Chat on ESPN someone asked him if David Wright was the best player in the NL to which he responded yes. So I asked if, when HEALTHY, Chipper was still a better player than Wright. He responded no. So I did a quick search of the stats and sent him this back, “How in the world can you say David Wright is better than Chipper when Chipper is healthy? In 2007 Chipper beat Wright in AVG (.337 vs. .325) OBP (.425 vs. .416) SLG (.604 vs. .546) FPCT (.971 vs. .954) and ZR (.797 vs. .771). It is not even close who is the better player when both are healthy and on the field.” His well reasoned response? “Um, no. Jones has been a bad defensive third baseman for years now, while Wright is among the best. And Shea Stadium kills power hitters. Try again.” It is insane! Let’s just go ahead and name David Wright “Master of the Universe” and be done with it. It is like they brainwashed all the ESPN writers. Someone tries to argue against David Wright on pure talent, they point to the stats. Someone tries to point to the stats, they want to argue the ballpark kills his numbers. It is not like Chipper is playing in Coors or anything.
By DAP
April 3, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
Yars dont you think KJ strikes out to much to bat 2nd?
By bravesfan
April 3, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
ssiscribe yeah he looks outstanding. 1 hitter through 6 innings with 10 k’s in his MLB debut. I think the Reds will take that anyday. What would you give up for Cueto?
By McFann
April 3, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
Efrim—
What a jerk that Keith Law is!! What a rude way to answer a question!! Chipper is a bad defensive third baseman, and Wright is one of the best?! What planet is this man from?
21 errors…9 errors……21 errors…9 errors……Hmm…I’d say Chipper was better even if he played for the D-Backs or Phillies!!
I think Mr. Law needs to “Try again”!
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
6-1 Nats top of the fifth. Bergmann strikes out the side. Gets Howard et.al. with a four-seam high-riding fastball with late break. Note to U KNO WHO. Has a slight late rise.
By DCbrave
April 3, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this
DOB
Sounds like you need to take a day or two off. Sounds pretty serious stuff, man. Hope you recover soon - don’t take too much of that cold pills you’ve been taking, because we want some senses off you.
By McFann
April 3, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
Sorry, Over lord.
You forgot about that play? DANG! I guess it got lost in that wild game!
By Scuba-Steve
April 3, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
Who is Keith Law? He sounds like an idiot!
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
Cueto is what we call a “Front of the rotation type starter”.
Jurrjens is what we call a “Middle of the rotation type starter”.
That isn’t a knock on Jurrjens, but as you can see from Cueto- the kid is electric. 10K’s 0 BB’s.
By Shaun
April 3, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this
I didn’t go back and read all the posts, but I’ll assume in your above comment, you mean OFFENSIVELY? I won’t argue with that point. But I haven’t seen anything out of Kelly that would tell me he’s gonna come close to winning a gold-glove over there.
I mean overall value, which is mostly due to Johnson’s offense and not his defense. Again, a player can make much more of an impact offensively than he possibly could on defense. Last year Johnson got 223 hits plus walks. As bad as you think his defense was, you certainly can’t say he came close to botching 223 plays. I’d venture to say he didn’t botch even close to half that many.
Defense matters but when looking at an individual player’s value, defense is a relatively small fraction of the total.
Overlord, you have seemed to imply that the Braves should consider playing Prado more because his defense is better than Johnson’s. See above as to why that’s probably not a good idea (unless Prado is a late-inning defensive replacement).
By Braveheart
April 3, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this
Wow. Great hardnosed play by Richie Weeks. 2nd and 3rd, no outs. Prince Fielder hits a sac fly. F******* makes a weak throw. Weeks just decks the catcher. Ball rolls away. Gwynn scores from second on a sac fly because of the weak throw and because Weeks acted like a fullback wiping out a middle linebacker.
Afternoon games at Wrigley are always awesome no matter how bad the teams are
By Boby's Cox
April 3, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
Good discusssions.
I’d rather have Prado over KJ because of his glove. Prado seems to have a nice chemistry with Yunel in the middle infield, and with Yunel going to make a lot of errors early on, we need to shore up the infield somewhat.
Don’t get me wrong. I like KJ and his work ethic, but I think he’s the most expendible guy on the team with all of our infielders, and now outfielders waiting in the wings. He’s damn good trade bait. And give me a break, we don’t need his power numbers, that’s why slugging PCT was “conveniently” left out of my post earlier. But if you compare Prado’s minor league stats last year to KJ’s major league, Prado had a higher OBP (.374) to KJ’s (.360), which is what we need out of the leadoff.
Jared
Batting average again? Next I assume you’ll be saying Juan Pierre (career .301 hitter) is better than Adam Dunn (career .248 hitter)?
In certain lineups and in certain spots of the lineup, YES. Sometimes having good hitters in front of power hitters make those power hitters much more productive. My point, as is Stuarts is that we have enough power already in Tex, Hoss, BMac, Frenchy, and the newly gunned Escobar. But yeah, I’d rather have a pesky pierre at the plate, than a player who’s more prone to strike out (Dunn) in a situation where you need 1 hit.
We don’t need KJ for power and aren’t using him for that, we’re using him to get on base for the big boys. This lineup is too “Homer Happy already,” and that was and is my point with this Braves lineup for years.
I liked Prado at the end of ‘06, but his bat has even come a long way since then. Everyone thought Escobar was JUST a utility player, and everyone thinks the same of Prado now. Prado has just as much upside as Escobar. Ask Terry Pendleton.
By DAP
April 3, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
David-ATL14
im not saying the walk trumps all, but i am saying kelly has a higher OPS than b phillips, so so i think it makes him a better offensive player. phillips defense is great, i wont argue that for a second, but his .330 OBP isnt. kelly ends up on base at a .375 clip.
if phillips could up his OBP by about 50 points, he would be the best 2nd baseman in the league (even better than utley). brandon phillips is basically jeff francouer as a 2nd baseman.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this
6-1 Nats top of sixth. Jason Bergmann impressive: 6 K’s 1 walk. Two types of fastballs. Great change-up. Good slider curve. Phillies line 1-3-4(not all in the same inning). Nats 10-6-0.
By beekay
April 3, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
Thanks N8..when I lived in Cincy in 1998-99 I attended some ABA games. They had a team called the Cincinnati Stuff. I worked out a business agreement for some seats in the first 3 rows. They would draw a few thousand. It was a pretty good time, decent local talent, cheap beer etc. One time I was in the front row for a game against the Richmond team coached by Ralph Sampson. He stood up the entire game, it was as if I was sitting in an obstuctive view seat…anyway now I watch my Celtics on the NBA pass and occassionaly go watch the Wizards here in DC at the Verizon Center.
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
KCand McFann
I usually think what he has to say is informative and interesting….. Most of the time.
I honestly don’t know what to say about the comment he made there. Tyler, whoever he is, clearly presented a great arguement as to why Chipper had a better overall 2007. KLaw put him to shame by saying “Um, No.” All he had to back it up was that Wright played in Shea for half of his game as oppose to Turner Field?????
Please. Spare me.
The question posed was who was the better player right now. It’s hard to argue that a 36 year old Chipper Jones is better than a 25 year old David Wright. That stats say otherwise, but I think people are so in love with how good Wright is at such a young age.
Anyway, Law knocks a lot of the Braves players/prospects.
If you didn’t like that, then just wait until he answers a question about Yunel Escobar. I’ll post that answer and people on this blog will want the guy to be fired.
By DAP
April 3, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
what keith law said to you makes me really mad. what a dope. like turner field is a launching pad!
DOB sorry youre sick. that sux. we appreciate all the more what you do for us braves-loving baseball fans.
By nOLIE
April 3, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
Just like when you say *everybody knows it’s understood that it does not mean that every single sentient being actually knows but that most people know.Cherokee
so what you are saying is that everybody knows that when you say “everybody knows” you don’t really mean that Everybody knows? Sounds like a trio doing a Leonard Cohen song if you ask me. ..Sorry I couldn’t resist.
By midtownBraves
April 3, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
I hope those f* at ESPN will soon realise they’re a big bunch of idiots come May-June. Their man-love for Wright and Reyes are understandable considering they are good players, but picking team-Mets over the Braves? Don’t think so.
Do not want to make any judgments based on a couple of games, but it is pretty obvious without even factoring in the results of the past games that the Phillies have HUGE pitching issues. Mets may be a decent team, but for far can a team with no rotation depth go? Just look at how far the braves went even after piling up all those runs.
The braves addressed their issues from last year and the other teams have not. It would not take a genius to figure out what that means.
By Shaun
April 3, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
No one would confuse me with a Mets fan but I think Wright is the best thirdbaseman in baseball. And I would want Wrigh