AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > April > 03 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USHampton ready; I’m banged up
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
It’s only appropriate that on the night of Mike Hampton’s first real-game appearance in more than 31 months, your Crusading Everyman will barely be able to get in and out of his car and up the steps through the security gate at Turner Field.
Yes, I’m having back spasms, the result of either my failure to stretch before working out at the gym two days ago, or overdoing said workout, or pulling my heavy computer bag out of the overhead compartment on the plane and my car trunk. Or, more likely, the result of all of the above.
Anyway, I’m miserable.
So let’s go watch Hampton pitch against the Pirates, his first start (or appearance of any kind) in a major league game (Grapefruit League games don’t count) since Aug. 19, 2005.
What’s the mood among the denizens? Trepidation? Anticipation? Excitement? Deep concern? Wholesale skepticism?
Anyway, it’s happening tonight. Only a rainout can stop it, and that’s not going to happen. It might drizzle, but that’s about it.
(Actually, more than a rainout could stop it. Don’t know why I said that, given Hampton’s injury history in recent years. Dude could step wrong going up the steps and show up at the ballpark feeling like me. Let me just say, I would not be able to make tonight’s start if I were the scheduled pitcher. But I’m gonna take a handful of Alleve and cover this thing, that’s for sure.)
(Oh, and some Sinutab for this nasty head cold or whatever I have. Yes, if you’re gonna have back spasms and your first cold in a couple of years, might as well have ‘em at the same time and feel completely, utterly awful, I always say.)
Hey, I wrote it today, but for those who missed it:
Hampton went 14-8 in 2003 and 13-9 in 2004. And he was 17-6 with a 2.99 ERA in 30 starts from May 18, 2004, when 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.)
Can you guys believe that, how good he was over a one-year stretch from May to May? Does it seem like that was so long ago? I mean, that’s seriously good over that 30-game stretch.
If he’s anywhere near that, anywhere at all near that level, the Braves have a helluva rotation (provided John Smoltz stays healthy, of course).
Hampton tonight and then the Mets in town for the weekend. You excited? Sunday, Smoltz vs. Johan Santana … that’s good stuff.
Chipper keeps going…. He has six RBIs in three games, which means Chipper Jones is showing every sign of continuing a rather amazing run that began in late June 2006, a run interrupted only by a couple of nagging injuries.
Consider these numbers: Since June 26, 2006, Hoss has hit .350 (248-for-708) with 58 doubles, 6 triples, 49 homers, 159 RBI, 108 walks, 99 strikeouts, a .433 OBP and .657 slugging percentage. That’s a 1.090 OPS, folks.
And on the road in that stretch, he’s been almost ridiculous: .367 with 33 doubles, 5 triples, 26 homers, 78 RBIs in 91 games, with a .439 OBP and .699 slugging percentage (1.138 OPS).
Prado raising his game: Gotta admit, every time Terry Pendleton raved about Martin Prado in spring training, every time he told me that Prado has nothing more to prove in Triple-A and belongs nowhere but the majors, etc., in the back of my mind I said, “Wow, T.P. really likes this kid, because Prado’s not all that.”
I’m starting to realize that maybe I’ve been wrong about Prado. The kid is a player, at least good enough to be an important utility man on a championship-calber team, and good enough to start for a lot of teams.
He went 2-for-4 with a triple, two RBI and a walk last night filling in for leadoff man/2B Kelly Johnson. And in his past 20 games, since Aug. 11, Prado has hit .371 (13-for-35) with a couple of doubles, a triple, only three strikeouts and a .421 OBP.
That’s a real small sample of at-bats, but consider that it’s a lot tougher to put up good numbers getting only one start here and there and otherwise doing it with isolated at-bats in the late innings against tough, fresh relievers.
Jurrjens wows ‘em: Pirates hitters were very impressed with rookie Jair Jurrjens, particularly with his changeup, overall command and mound presence.
A Pittsburgh writer told me that a couple of players said that changeup looked exactly like his fastball coming out of Jurrjens’ hand, and that they had no idea how to hit it.
His line - 5-1/3 innings, 7 hits, 2 runs, 1 walk, 5 K’s - wasn’t nearly as impressive as Jurrjens was, as anyone who watched the game can attest.
By the way, Jurrjens made his major league debut Aug. 15 for Detroit, holding Cleveland to four runs in seven innings of a Tigers loss on the road.
Since then, he’s 5-0 in seven starts, and his teams have won all seven games.
OK, I gotta get to the ballpark. Running late. Or, rather, hobbling late.
“ON A NIGHT LIKE THIS” by Bob Dylan
On a night like this
So glad you came around,
Hold on to me so tight
And heat up some coffee grounds.
We got much to talk about
And much to reminisce,
It sure is right
On a night like this.
On a night like this
So glad you’ve come to stay
Hold on to me, pretty miss
Say you’ll never go away to stray.
Run your fingers down my spine
Bring me a touch of bliss
It sure feels right
On a night like this.
On a night like this
I can’t get any sleep,
The air is so cold outside
And the snow’s so deep.
Build a fire, throw on logs
And listen to it hiss
And let it burn, burn, burn, burn
On a night like this.
Put your body next to mine
And keep me company,
There is plenty a room for all,
So please don’t elbow me.
Let the four winds blow
Around this old cabin door,
If I’m not too far off I think we did this once before.
There’s more frost on the window glass
With each new tender kiss,
But it sure feels right
On a night like this.
Comments
By wolfpacker
April 3, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this
awesome
By Stephen
April 3, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this
hey
By Tripleplay
April 3, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
Survey says…1st?
By TrboDawg
April 3, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
Thanks for service above and beyond DOB - You really need to find you a compounding pharmacist. She (or He) can fix you right up!
Who do you see being sent down when Smoltz returns?
By mitchie-san
April 3, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
First??????
By 22oz
April 3, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
You might wanna have some cheese to go with all that whine. Seriously though, i don’t know what to think about tonight. I’m gonna miss it-going to see Ron White at the Classic Center in Athens. i think he’ll do real good and go 7, allowing 1 run. Hampton, not Ron White.
Nats blow lead, allow 7 straight hits,then hit Rollins, then another hit. Phils 7-6 after 6 innings.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
Ray King comes in WP’s in the go ahead run then DP’s the Phillies 2-3-2 to close out the bottom of the sixth. Score after 6 - Phillies on top 7-6.
By W. C.
April 3, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
First????
By Ace
April 3, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
I hate to bring this up because its so early…. but let us imagine that Prado continues on something like this kind of pace (and continues with the nifty glove)…. any chance he cuts into Kelly’s time when Kelly’s back?
By wayne
April 3, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
What does everyone think about Acosta? I think he needs more seasoning in the minors. We have extra arms in the pen right now. It’ll be better for the team now. Better for his career in the long run.
By mitchie-san
April 3, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
Darn….Thought I had “first”…..
By will36206
April 3, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB, colds, allergies and bad backs are a nasty combination. Remember Sammy Sosa? Looking forward to seeing Hampton make his comeback tonight!
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
7-6 Phils at the seventh inning stretch time. Ryan Masdon in Pillies relief 1-2-3 through the heart of the Nats order #’s 3-4-5.
By mitchie-san
April 3, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
I’ll take the #5 seed.
By brent a.
April 3, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
Excitement!
By DAP
April 3, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
im really excited about hampton’s start tonight, but im trying not to get too riled up, knowing how injury prone hes been the last couple of years. which is really a shame, because he is some pitcher.
one of the most impressive stats DOB listed to me is his 99Ks. thats it! what a great hitter chipper is!
By jonathan
April 3, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
Anyone concerned that Hampton will be starting and it might be “drizzling”? I don’t even want them to wet down the infield before the game…Scary!
By Jim H.
April 3, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
DOB, speaking as another 40+ (47 to be exact) avid weight lifter….take Advil…..it’s better than Aleve for muscle strains, spasms, etc.
I’m really excited about the starting rotation (as well as the team in general). As long as they can avoid the injury bug, I think we will be VERY good this year. Hopefully Jurrjens will be the centerpiece of a rebuilt Braves rotation for many years after Smoltz and Glavine are gone. He looks like the real deal.
By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy
April 3, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
Mac,
It’s pretty evident that Wright will win the MVP, the Gold Glove, the Cy Young, the Presidential Race, American Idol, and custody of Britney’s kids. Might as well crown him Master of the Universe, too.
Chipper Jones has hit 19 home runs in 306 career at bats in Shea Stadium. That comes out to 1 hr every 16.1 ABs.
David Wright has hit 49 home runs in 979 career at bats in Shea Stadium. That comes out to 1 hr every 19.9 ABs.
Also Chipper is sporting a .958 career fielding percentage to Wright’s .951.
I would request that you tell Keith Law to “try again” but he obvously didn’t try the first time so “again” would be unnecessary.
By etownbrave
April 3, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
DOB, Thanks for the blog even though you probably feel as lousy as the weather. Back spasms and a cold…UGH! Looking forward to Hampton’s return and for the bats and defense to be as good as they were last night. Do hope you will be feeling better soon.
By Linzo
April 3, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
i hate when people say “not so much”
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
Hanrahan comes on after Ray King allows two hits in the bottom of the inning. Hanrahan retires the side. 7-6 Phillies in the top of the 8th.
By Epinephrine
April 3, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
I’m not nervous, I’m excited. Let’s face it, a lot of people thought Hampton would never get to this stage. Anything we get from his, especially quality, is a very nice bonus.
By ssiscribe
April 3, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
Looks like the Nats just woke up and realized they are the Nats … that 6-1 lead is long gone. 7-6 Phillies.
And the Reds held on and won 3-2. Cueto went seven innings, allowing only a homer to Upton. One hit, no walks, 10 strikeouts.
Wayne: You’re serious about Acosta, aren’t you? I know that 21.60 ERA looks bad, but have you watched him pitch the past year? He went 1-1 with a 2.28 ERA last season, with 22 strikeouts in 23 2/3 innings. He gave up two homers all season last year (Richmond and Atlanta combined).
He had one bad outing in the home opener and you’re ready to send him down? For whom? Buddy? Acosta is the hard-thrower every bullpen needs, and he is only going to get better with more experience. He’s got the stuff to succeed at the big-league level.
Sorry, just don’t see the reasoning why he needs to go down. He pitched a good inning last night, a good bounce-back performance after Monday. No way you send that dude down, man. No way at all. He’s plenty good enough to pitch here and help this team. Otherwise, it’d been him and not Ascaino dealt to the Cubs for Ohman and Infante.
—30—
By Firsty McFirst
April 3, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
Aaaaaaand…FIRST!!!
By flange1
April 3, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Sorry about the back, I feel your pain! I have had back problems for years and it is no fun at all.
Can’t wait to see Hampton pitch. I have a feeling this is going to be a good year for him.
By prussell
April 3, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this
Everyone is so concerned about Hampton. Let him pitch. If he gets hurt he gets hurt. We havent had him for the last two years. It would be nice to have him for the full season but we cant be worried every time he goes to the mound.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
Wayne are you serious? Acosta is has closed the gap between him and Moylan so much… That kid is ready. One bad outing, so what? He did just fine last night. And he did just fine last year. Who would be replacing him if he is sent to the minors? If you are not aware, that kid is one of the biggest reasons our bullpen is considered solid. He can be lights out. And he will do nothing but improve.
By NRBQ
April 3, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
Following last night’s game on TV and radio, I noticed that not one of the announcers has learned to pronounce The Jury’s name.
It’s tough listening to Skip knowing all that he’s going through health-wise.
Maybe you can take some comfort, DOB, in knowing things could be worse.
By Braveheart
April 3, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
MAGIC NUMBER IS 162!
tragic number is 158
By BuckeyeBrave
April 3, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
DOB,
I get back spasms about twice a year. I always stick an Icy Hot Patch on the area, and it makes a huge difference. Give it a try, you won’t believe how much better you feel.
By Shaun
April 3, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy, Chipper was the better player when healthy in 2007. But I think Wright is the better player.
No one would confuse me with a Mets fan but I think Wright is the best thirdbaseman in baseball. And I would want Wright if I were starting a team tomorrow and could pick any National Leaguer. I don’t know of many thirdbasemen who’ve hit .312/.389/.535 in 2327 PA in the majors before the age of 26.
As far as defense, Chipper has been near the bottom in total chances every season in recent years. And he’s played in more games than most of the players that have a similar amount of total chances. That would seem to indicate he doesn’t get to many balls compared to many other thirdbasemen. Of course he’s going to make fewer errors if the only balls he fields are the ones that are hit very near him.
Not trying to knock Chipper as a player. He’s one of if not my favorite. And I’m not convinced he’s a bad defensive thirdbaseman. But the evidence is pretty clear that he’s not one of the best.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
Top of the 8th. For Phillies, Romero on for Rudy Seanez. Walk, single 1 out. Runners on first and second LoDuca up at the plate. Two singles to Guzman and Millidge one run in 7-7 bases loaded. 2 out. Third out Bottom of the eight coming up.
By MGL
April 3, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
KC just beat the tigers 4-1 completing a three game sweep.
By Elements
April 3, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
I’m nervous about Hampton’s start tonight. Even if he makes it through the game w/o injury I won’t get my hopes up for a comeback until I hear his arm still feels good tomorrow.
By AJ 25
April 3, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
DOB says Prado could start for a lot of teams. How about he starts for us. He’s a much better fielder then KJ and doesn’t strike out nearly as much.
By flange1
April 3, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this
Hi All,
I want to respond to some of the discussions from the last blog, I was going to on that blog until DOB moved us over.
Is it just me or does Prado look like a different player at the plate this year? Last year, he looked very defensive at the plate, so nervous at times that he couldn’t hit a watermelon on a stick. This year, he is much more aggressive looking. I know it is only 3 games, but things are looking up for him.
I said a few times over the winter that the Braves should trade (actually I said dump) Prado. I think I might be wrong.
If you include Lillibridge in the equation, the Braves ARE producing talented players from the minors, maybe not power pitchers, but we have 4 guys in their early 20’s that could be starting for major league team RIGHT NOW.
I think the Braves will keep KJ and Escobar, and I think that Lillibridge and Prado will be better than bench players. At some point, the Braves will have to deal 1 and maybe 2 of these youngsters for other needed talent.
I strongly disagree with the posts that suggest the Braves farm system is barren and not producing. In todays world of “paying slot” for amateur talent, teams like the Braves that normally conform to the Commissioners edict on “slotting”, the Braves are choosing position players that they can sign and develop VS drafting power pitchers who want WAY more than slot.
The Braves are developing those position players, keeping the best for the Major League team and spinning the rest off for pitching. Seems like the smart thing to do for a team on a budget.
On another note, we all need to give the bullpen and the bench some time to get used to the Braves and their roles with the Braves. Other than Soriano and Moylan EVERY other bench player and relief pitcher is new to being on the opening day roster. Some of the guys saw action last year when rosters expanded, but they have to get used to their roles and Bobby Cox has to get used to them and put them in the correct roles for their talent.
We saw a great game last night from JJJ and the bullpen looked pretty good too. Moylan was so nasty the ump missed a couple calls. Resop has a real power arm, he just has to control his breaking pitches.
I still think this will be a great year to be a Braves fan. We just need to give the kids some time to adjust.
AND poor Pedro is out 6-8 weeks, what a bummer.
I like Keith Law, but I do not understand the Chipper/D Wright answer….
Sorry for the length of the post!
By cricket
April 3, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
Folks, I am sorry if this is already discussed, but did everyone see where Jayson Stark has picked Braves to win it all?
Jayson Stark
By Shaun
April 3, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
Shaun - any place that would provide number of chances for each position over the course of a season - i.e. before we can agree that Chipper’s chances are fewer because he doesn’t get to as many, can we find out how many chances are “up the middle” and right side so that we can see how much may or may not be attributed to how are pitchers have pitched over the course of Chipper’s career vs his range?
Well, I’m assuming if Chipper ranked 11th or 12th in total chances every year for the past four seasons, that’s a good variety of pitchers. I doubt it’s Braves’ pitchers causing the low total every year over four seasons any more than any other team’s pitchers.
I don’t think Wright is as good as people think and I don’t think Chipper is a bad fielder but I also think Chipper is worse than many think.
By dobearsbare
April 3, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
Hey, writers don’t work out. What the heck were you thinking?
By j-school dropout
April 3, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
DOB:
You gotta watch out for those laptop bags. As a fellow road warrior, I pulled a laptop bag out of an overhead compartment on a plane, felt a twinge in my shoulder, and tore my rotator cuff. This 40-something fan now has a lot of sympathy for injured pitchers now. The surgery wasn’t bad, but rehab is forever. I now understand why some of these guys say they will walk away from the game rather than have another surgery.
By Henry
April 3, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Really sorry to hear about your back, dude, I’ve been there and it’s no fun whatsoever, especially if you’re sneezing —- major ouch.
I was expecting nothing from Hampton a month ago, but I gotta say, I’m excited. The Braves have three good starting performances out of three tries so far, and Hampton had a good spring.
I was at the park last night — gorgeous night for baseball. I agree with everything you said about Jurrjens, a very strong performance for five innings. In fact, the whole team was sharp, offensively and defensively.
Shaun’s comment above notwithstanding, Chipper deserves major props for maintaining concentration and starting that double play with the business end of a broken bat bearing down on him. As you noted, DOB, he has been in the zone for a couple of years now, and appears to be picking right up with it this year. In my opinion it’s criminally wrong that he’s been that good, but ignored at All Star time. (In fact, he and Renteria both got robbed last year.) He is, simply, one of the premier offensive players in the game over the last two years. If he keeps this level of performance up, surely he can’t keep getting ignored. Can he?
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
AJ25 dont say that about Prado and KJ around here….. you are not get a lot of new friends that way… just my advice. I just got hanged this morning for saying less than what you just said… LOL
By Yars
April 3, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
22oz…..you lucky s.o.b. in getting to see Ron White. Man he is freaking hilarious. I love him.
By Stuart
April 3, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
I thought Jurrgens looked great last night. He is going to have rough spots this year, but the ball came out of his hand free and easy. Brian’s mitt did not move alot. Unlike Davies or someone like that, Brian looked like he had an ‘easy’ time catching Jair because of his command.
I am not going to get to see Hampton tonight. I wish him well. I am axious to see how he looks. We need him.
By Wes
April 3, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
DOB, wasn’t Randy Johnson’s perfect game in Atlanta in 2004? I only asked because I moved here in 2004, and remember watching it as I was unpacking.
By Braveheart
April 3, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
Orlandofan I saw your post at the end of the last blog. Definitely agree with you. Afternoon baseball is awesome. MLB should probably make sure they have at least one afternoon game televised nationally on ESPN everyday. Start the darn things at 2:30 so that it is starting up when kids are getting out of school. It would probably cause a short term loss in money and low ratings but over the long run, it may create more money because kids grew up watching at least an inning or two everyday.
I wish Wrigley never put lights on that stadium.
Those Under Armour signs in the Ivy look classy and low key enough but it just seems a sin for any sign to be on the Ivy covered brick walls of Wrigley.
Alfonso Soriano looks so cool in a Cubs uni.
I overdid it in my trashing of Prado on the last blog. The difference between Prado and KJ to me is that KJ is a starting second baseman on a playoff team. Prado is a utility man on a playoff team and a starter on a noncontender.
I liked Chad Curtis’s quote after the Mitchell Report about players like him that were starters on average clubs but bench players on contenders: Chad Curtis wonders how much steroid use prevented clean players from getting jobs. “Decisions that were made hurt other guys. How did that affect pay structure and who got what job? To me, a guy that was clean … I was going to be a starting outfielder on an average team and a backup outfielder on a good team. If everything was level, maybe I would have been a starter on a good team. How many times did that play out over the course of the years?”
By La Jolla Dawg
April 3, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
Not sure when your back went into spasm but here are some tips: use an ice pack for 20 minutes on 20 minutes off for first 24 hours, then alternate heat and ice. ThermaCare makes a great heated wrap. Out here I buy them at Vons , I bet CVS or Kroger would carry them. Finally, tylenol PM really helps with pain and you’ll get some sleep too. Once your back calms down you should get a massage. Hope that helps. I am 40, have had back issues on and off for a while and this is what I have found works best. I hope you feel better.
By La Jolla Dawg
April 3, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this
DOB—couple more tips: don’t sit down for prolonged periods of time if you can help it and sleep on your side with a pillow in between your knees.
Very excited that I can watch the Braves here in La Jolla. I actually get Peachtree T.V. via DirecTV and SportsSouth. I will actually see more games this year then I did when Braves were sporadically on TBS.
By GSU-Lee
April 3, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Wes, yes it was, and DOB has it listed that way up top. “…from May 14, 2004, when he threw a complete game but lost because of Randy Johnson’s perfect game….” what a horrible night that was. Hampton pitched terrific but Randy was a little bit better. If I remember correctly, Hampton hit a few balls pretty hard that night,one of which almost left the yard…but Don’t hold me to that
By Lew
April 3, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Christie (McN8)-No, liking my posts and those of the Esteemed Scribe do not make you a tramp-I would never denigrate your character like that-it just shows you have good sense and a modicum of good taste. Of course, being a Nathan groupie would also make you as pure as the driven snow. BTW-You don’t carry a bag of plaster in your purse, do you?
By Seymour
April 3, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
DOB,
I know a doctor who can help your back. He is not cheap, but he can really do amazing, amazing things. I’ve known people who have lived with chronic conditions for years who have gone to see him and in a couple of visits were as good as new. Seriously. His name is Dr. Kenneth West and his phone number is 404-255-6027.
By bigchiefrg
April 3, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
How about the Phils making 4 errs in that Wash gm and getting blanked last nite. Looks like we’re not the only ones a little rusty. I wish they were just THAT BAD, but I dont think so.
Is it just me or does it feel like Chipper has stepped it up a bit so far this year and is on a bit of mission? I know I am a bit biased but he seems posessed thus far. I would take a Chipper over Wright any day of the week and twice on Sunday.
By Sir Stealth
April 3, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
Congratulations, Martin Prado! You’re the irrationally fetishized Braves player of the week! Sorry, Kelly. You’re merely the irrationally disregarded Braves player of the day. Don’t worry though, just get on a streak (think 2-3 games and a nice turn or two at second base) and everyone will want you taking Chipper’s spot in the order in no time. Beware Martin, while you’re doing a great job, all glory is fleeting.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
Where’s the ascerbic cherib? Free baseball in Philadelphia. Top of the 10th 7-7.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
BTW Skip looked rough at the end of last season. Lost a lot of weight. What health issues is he battling?
By Seymour
April 3, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
DOB,
If you go and see him, and he is what I say he is, maybe you could also mention him to any ailing players. :) Nothing like having a secret weapon to shorten a DL stint.
By flange1
April 3, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
Lew,
A plaster caster?
Have not heard about those ladies in awhile!!!!
By AdirondackDave
April 3, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
Big Chief — I think you’re right, Chipper seems to have stepped it up a notch this year although the guy has been producing at a very high level for such a long time.
He isn’t up there with Ted Williams but I remember Williams career very well and the guy came back from Korea and continued to pound away like he’d never been away. Somewhere around 40 he won another batting title and everyone was disappointed (except the Yankees and some writers) when he retired. If Chipper keeps pounding away into his early 40s the comparison will not be so far-fetched.
By Keith Law
April 3, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
I hate the Braves.
By BUSHWACKER
April 3, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
I remember before he got hurt, Hampton had been the most dominant pitcher in either league for about a year,if he’s healthy he can be the best pitcher on this staff and that’s saying alot!
By Thrillhouse44
April 3, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
“Plaster caster” a.k.a. Braveheart’s hot date for Friday night.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
Richmond Braves 1-0 over Rochester at the end of 1. Lillibridge gets a hit.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
KEITH LAW:
Why are you here?
By flange1
April 3, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
Thrillhouse,
Tell me that you know about the Plastercasters from the late 60’s?
Interesting group of ladies!
If Braveheart is dating them he is in for a good time (they might be a bit old for him) but I am sure he will enjoy it!!!
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
Phillies 8-7 bottom of the 10th.
By wayne
April 3, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
Acosta:
His K/BB ratio was 22/14 last year. Meaning that he has dominant stuff but needs to have better control. Like most young power pitchers
He was a lot better pitcher on the road than home. (Since the TED is slightly a better pitchers park) I take this as a sign of overthrowing or getting swayed emotionally by home crowd noise. Also like most rookies not named Jaba/Palpabon
So the choice is between
1) sending him down for a month or two so the braves can trade another reliever. This allows the braves to “showcase” a few of the other relievers. AND allow Acosta to work on his control a bit. July call up seems about right.
2)let him mature here forcing Bobby to make a “tough decision” with someone else once Smoltz is back in a few days. (Bennet is too valuable to be sent down)
By Justo
April 3, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
Prediction for tonights ball game. Hampton 7.0IP 6H 1ER 1B 5K Braves win it 5-1..frenchy goes yard, Tex drives in 2.
By McFann
April 3, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this
The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy—
Sorry for being so late (and I hope you’re still around now). You’re so correct. David Not wRight will prob’ly win everything. There’s not even a point for anybody else to have third basemen. Wright will top them all! LOL!
Those home run numbers at Shea are very int’resting. Doesn’t surprise me at all that Chipper’s HRPAB there is better. I’m gonna be kinda sorry to see that place go! Shea it ain’t sho! (Don’t we have a couple other guys who aren’t to shabby there? Nothing like Chipper, of course, but I think there are a couple more good Shea AVG on our team.)
Stuart—
Brian would have an easier time catching Hampton on the DL than he ever had catching Davis!
By BossLady
April 3, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
Did anyone notice that all this happened to DOB after he came home after a long stay away and having days off?
By GSU-Lee
April 3, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
Justo, that’s a pretty optomistic prediction….but I hope you are right
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
That earlier “wayne” was not me. I would not send Acosta down.
Overboard You need to decide what you are saying about KJ’s defense. I hear that you like his bat better than Prado’s. (most of us does)
On the one hand, you say he sucks, then you allude to him being average defensively. I would agree with the latter. He certainly does not suck at second base. I SUCK at second base. Also Prado has an OK arm, OK range, good hands and so far, has a limited amount of experience anywhere but second and third. He ranks as an average fielding secondbaseman also, maybe just a bit better than KJ.
So, let’s agree to disagree if you still say he sucks (if you say that, then I say “Your and idiot”).
I hope Prado improves. Just like I hope Kris Medlen improves, like I hope all Braves players improve.
DOB Sorry to hear about your back. Back problems suck! You presented yourself well on XM a few hours ago. (XM is my only salvatation when I am traveling.)
Just pulled into a podunk town in the middle of nowhere, Utah. Lucky for me the Best Western has wireless!
Hope the back gets better.
I am excited for Hampton tonight. Where are all the Hampton haters from last year? He may still fail, but I would never bet against the man.
McFann I will be real hard to recognize in Denver on Tuesday night, unless the cameras focus on the cheap seats. I will be the mid-50’s gray bearded guy with the Orange Clemson cap! (and probably chewing on a bratz and milking a Diet Dr Pepper)
By Pete H.
April 3, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
DOB: Watch out for that cold. I am just recovering from it…2.5 weeks of misery. It’s sweeping the nation. I spent three days in DC barely able to work, I was coughing so hard.
Excited about Hampton tonight. Also excited about the Mets series…that should be be fun.
Cubs just won their first, 6-3, over the Brew Crew. Dempster pitched a good game and Wood got his first ever save.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
Carlyle pitching for Richmond. Top of 3rd. Balk plates a run. Josh Anderson runs down deep fly to center. Doubles off Rochester runner trying to steal second to end the half-inning.
By Seymour
April 3, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this
Just checked the weather forecast: no rain predicted until 10 pm when there is a 30% chance of showers. Sounds good for the game.
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
wayne (from where, btw) So you would send Acosta down for a bad game?? Doesn’t make sense to me. Gotta give these guys a chance. If he goes down, it would be only because he has options, and they are afraid of losing another guy, OR, if they think they need Bennetts ability to go multiple innings.
By Greg in TN
April 3, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this
Afternoon friends and neighbors…
So, Keith Law and Dayn Perry walk into this bar…
Folks what Keith Law or any other talking head thinks about this team is the last thing I worry about. It’s amusing to see the man crush some talking heads have with this player or that. Wright is a outstanding hitting 3B with a good glove. A gold glove? Um, no. Try again. Actually Pedro Feliz or Aramis Ramirez should have been your Gold Glover at the three-bag for 2007, but it’s water under the bridge now. Wright will have his day in the sun, what with being predicted to win the MVP, another Gold Glove, the Pulitzer, a Nobel Prize and Time’s Man of the Year.
Back in soggy TN to watch Mike Hampton take the mound tonight against the Pirates from a much drier locale. I am happy to see Mike getting back on the mound for a game after what has to be the two most frustrating years of the man’s life. Whether it’s fair or not, there will always be questions from here on out about his health. A healthy and effective Mike Hampton makes this pitching staff formidable.
McFann That’s Bowa. I just think the Phillies probably could have been more of a contender during the four years he was there. It was entertaining to watch for those of us that were division rivals, that’s for sure.
Folks the Nats have been impressive thus far. I feel like Manny Acta did a great job last year with their young guys and they’re picking right back up this year and playing good baseball. If Jeffrey Loria gives Fredi Gonzalez some talent to work with when they open their new ball park I don’t think we’ll see the Marlins down for very long either.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this
THIS JUST IN: Corky’s catching tonight, and wouldn’t surprise me if he’s assigned to catch Hampton starts, though the answer I got was neither a confirmation or denial. Bobby just said Mac’s caught every inning so far and been some long games, etc, etc.
Also, PRADO is at 2B again. Kelly’s OK, but wanted to give him another day. Plus, the way Prado played last night, and with the chilly weather, I’d have been surprised if Prado wasn’t in there….
BuckeyeBrave, glad you mentioned the IcyHot patch. Gotta try that. Works for Shaq, right?
Kotsay showed me a couple of stretches I hadn’t tried. Gonna do those when I get home.
By the way, don’t know who heard Gammons say something about Kotsay spending “hours” each day to prepare, but Kotsay just assured me it’s only about 30-40 minutes daily, just his regular maintenance stuff of back exercises, stretches, etc, designed to prevent recurrence of real problems. Told me again he’s had no problems this spring and so far this season.
And yes, he’s in there again tonight against another lefty, Zach Duke.
By Pete H.
April 3, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
How on earth could the following words be in the same sentence? Kansas City, completed, sweep, Tigers, in Detroit.
By Greg in TN
April 3, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
DOB, hang in there. Sorry to hear about your back and cold. I usually get a cold along with something else myself. It’s bad enough to get one, but when dealing with something else at the same time, it’s a thousand times worse.
I did see that Skip is only doing home radio games this year. I know he’s been going through a lot of health issues lately and hope he’s able to recover enough to do whatever he wants to do.
The Cubs get to fly the ‘W’ flag at Wrigley tonight. Kerry Wood strikes out Jason Kendall looking to preserve a 6-3 win.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this
Not sure when your back went into spasm but here are some tips: use an ice pack for 20 minutes on 20 minutes off for first 24 hours, then alternate heat and ice. ThermaCare makes a great heated wrap. LaJolla Dawg
Appreciate the advice. Unfortunately, when I’m sitting in pressbox chair for six hours writing stories and updating the blog, it’s pretty much impossible to alternate heat and ice or do anything else other than take pills.
By Eric from MO
April 3, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this
Shaun” I think Wright is the best thirdbaseman in baseball.” Right city but wrong team. A-Rod is not only the best 3rd basemen in baseball he is the best player in baseball.
By Murphy
April 3, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this
I used to carry Salon Pas patches with me at all times for my back. They are great!
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this
Looks as though everyone has calmed down a bit after last night’s win.
I’ll admit I’m really excited to see Hampton pitch tonight. I’m not expecting a lot, but we’ll see. I think a good outing by him will not only boost his confidence, but also that of the team’s as well. By team’s I mean their chances of winning the division.
The offense has looked good, a little impatient, but that’s always the case it seems. The only issue really bothering me is Cox getting soooo deep into the pen every night. If he’s just trying to get some guys into the game to get them going that’s fine, but he keeps it up the pen is going to wear out faster than Pedro’s hamstring.
By Eric from MO
April 3, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this
Everyone that thinks Hampton is going 7innings is going to be disappointed. He will go 5 innings for a couple of reasons. 1. He didnt get a chance to build up his arm strength to go deep into ballgames during ST. 2. This is his first start in 2 years, the Braves aint going to blow his arm out tonight.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
Brandon Jones strikes out to end the fourth with Anderson on third. Score Rochester 3 Braves 2. Line on Anderson so far: 2-3 w/walk, SB, and outfield assist.
By The Piece
April 3, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this
Did anyone see the quotation from Mike Pelfrey regarding facing Glavine in the batters’ box from the preview of this weekend’s series on mlb.com?
One of the funniest things I’ve ever heard a ball player say: “‘When I face him, I’ll do what I always do — watch the ball as long as I can, close my eyes and swing,’ Pelfrey said.” Now I’m no fan of Mike Pelfrey, but that s**t’s funny.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this
Carlyle goes 3.2, 2 walks, 5 hits. Cold(45), windy, drizzle.
By AdirondackDave
April 3, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this
I look for a good start tonight from Hampton but it won’t be about innings. Especially with the weather, I expect a limit of 80-85 pitches unless he’s got something really good, or really bad, going.
By La Jolla Dawg
April 3, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this
DOB, try to get up and stretch during the game or do laps in the press box—whatever, just don’t sit the entire 6 hours or they will have to carry you out when the game is over. Trust me, I speak from experience.
By McFann
April 3, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
Wayne—
I’ll keep my eyes open during the Tues. game! (That’s my B-day, so that TV oughta be stuck on the Braves!)
; )
Greg
Oh yeah—very entertaining!
By Bo
April 3, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this
I had a dream last night that Hampton pitched 6 shutout innings and Hoss and Kotsay hit homers. Never dreamed anything like that before…Maybe, I Hope its true.
By BeachBrave
April 3, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this
Hey richbrave how do the R Braves look this year?
By ncscoots
April 3, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this
Wright [is] predicted to win the MVP, another Gold Glove, the Pulitzer, a Nobel Prize and Time’s Man of the Year.
Perhaps. But I’m betting that nowhere in his retinue is there a blog tramp. And, so, the man is nothing. And I drink his milkshake.
It’s unfortunate, but Wright is liable to be infected by all the douchebaggery of those who tout him so heartily.
OK for Corky, but, boys and girls, Heap’s swing is BACK. His bat looks as solid as two years ago, and that’s saying a lot. I don’t know what he’s hitting yet, but his swing right now is pretty, pretty, pretty. I’ll miss him in the lineup tonight, when Hampton goes 6 IP, 1 ER, 4 K, and 1 BB. And pretty much zipping the lips of every mother-loving Mike-basher in Braves Nation and the world.
Not bad for a NASCAR hood.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this
How many think Hampton will pitch more innings and have more wins this season than Pedro?
After seeing Pedro react as though he’d been shot when that hamstring went, I’ll be surprised if he’s back before late May. And when he returns, he’ll have to make sure he doesn’t compensate for his weak leg by altering his delivery.
By Terry Forster
April 3, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this
DOB, Walk it off young man. Someone’s got to cover this game tonight as Mike “the Franchise” Hampton takes the hill…this is about as big as an April game can get IMHO.
By OrlandoFan
April 3, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this
Hang in there, DOB. Been there, done that. I echo earlier advance that Advil is the way to go. Just ask Nolan Ryan.
By ncscoots
April 3, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this
fastasballs, Braves saw an average of almost 4 pitches per PA last night. Don’t believe I can characterize that as “impatient”.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this
Just talked to McCann about the importance of the Mets series. He and Glavine and Francoer all said it’s important, didn’t try to downplay it because it’s early April.
“These games are just as important as the ones at the end,” McCann said. “Last year [during a Braves midseason slump] we were like, ‘Yeah, we’ll get ‘em tomorrow.’ I think this year we need to get them early, so later on in the year we’re not talking about trying to catch teams.”
By ncscoots
April 3, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this
And when he returns, he’ll have to make sure he doesn’t compensate for his weak leg by altering his delivery.
Which why I LMAO at Harold Reynolds’ prediction of a two-week return. HR (I’m guessing) hasn’t had the pleasure of spending a couple of hours landing and twisting on a bad hammy 85-90 times, and doing it every few days or so.
By AdirondackDave
April 3, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this
I’ll take Hampton over Pedro, wins, starts, innings or any other measure. Hampton is a tough cookie, regardless of the time he’s lost over the last couple years. Nobody ever described Pedro as tough (except to hit when he’s healthy and has his a-game.)
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
Richmond scores 3 on three walks, a single and a hit batsman. After 6 its Richmond 5 Rochester 3. Rowanhorst 2.1 and very effective.
By McFann
April 3, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this
ncscoots—
McCann’s hitting .308 so far this year. As far as his swing being back, and hope you’re as right as rain during the Florida hurricane season!!! (And there’s a good chance you are—unless he gets hit in the finger again.) I’ll miss him in the lineup tonight, too, as I do every time he gets a day/night off—even when he’s slumping.
8 )
DOB
Good quote by Brian. Thanks, Chief!
By darren in nashville
April 3, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this
DOB, nice job on espnnews today, nice to actually here your voice…really pulling for Hampton tonight, wish game was on in nashville
By DAP
April 3, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this
good to hear that from mccann. he is exactly right, play every game like a must-win.
By Goodoleboy58
April 3, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this
DOB-
With Sheffield tearing a tendon, what do you think the prospects of Bonds in a tiger uni in the DH spot?
By Boby's Cox
April 3, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this
Thanks DOB for the Prado stats and confirmation to what i’m saying.
And in his past 20 games, since Aug. 11, Prado has hit .371 (13-for-35) with a couple of doubles, a triple, only three strikeouts and a .421 OBP
Those numbers are just carring over from the last 2 spring trainings and last season. In spring training, prado hit .333, KJ just .237 In ‘07’s spring, Prado hit .354 with an .407 OBP and a 886 OPS. KJ hit just .267. For Prado, That carried over from a .316 BA in 86 games last year with Richmond, which was 2nd in the IL. He hit safely in 46 of the last 57 minor league games last year. He made the postseason IL all-star team as a 2-baseman. His discipline at the plate looks good this year.
Whoever said his defense was average in this blog or the last was totally off. Prado fielded at a .995 clip in 86 games at Richmond last year. Meanwhile KJ was 19th of 23 major leagers who played at least 100 games at 2b last year with a .981 fielding PCT, most of those errors coming at the end of last season (when he had more experience and there was more pressure on the Braves to make the posteason) if i remember correctly.
And, while y’all may have doubts about Prado, remember that Yunel hit just .264 in the minors in ‘06, 1 year before tearing it up in ATL. Sometimes players play better on a bigger stage or improve immensly in 1 year. Escobar was given a chance to prove himself, so was KJ in ‘07 before ever playing 1 game at 2B, missing then entire ‘06 year being hurt, and hitting just .241 in ‘05. WOW.
Prado’s proved himself. He’s ready, while KJ has a bum knee that’s hurting him, has hurt him all spring, and according to ESPN, was hurting him last year too. Prado’s bat looks more consistent over the last 2 years than KJ’s. According to last year’s splits, KJ hit over .269 in just 2 months out of the year, and had 3 months that he hit under .260, including 1 he hit .200 (sept).
I know u all love KJ, but I’d rather have a more experienced fielding 2-basemen, and a guy who hits consistently year round. Who cares about the power numbers when you have Chip, Tex, Bmac, Frency, and a homer happy club that k’s a lot (including KJ).
Again, I like KJ and his work ethic, but he’s the most tradeable guy on our team, injury prone, slump prone, and is terrible defensively. The walks are nice, but with contact and Batted Balls Put Into Play (BABIP), i’d rather have Prado and the chemistry with Yunel in the middle infield.
Now lets hear you all b***. Back me up Overlord
By chuckaluck
April 3, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
DOB: Thanks for playing hurt. I gave a coworker this bet today. Over/under on Hampton’s start tonight is 6 innings and 1 ER. He took under on the innings and over the earned runs. I have more confidence than that.
By the Stranger
April 3, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this
I’ll take Hampton over Pedro for innings & W’s, but when it comes to toughness I’ll take Pedro over Zimmerman. I’d also take Pedro over Hampton at a cockfight. Not even close.
Speaking of music, a little known band out of Athens on the Colbert Report last night. Quote of the interview from Colbert (paraphrased): “When people say this is a comeback album do you want to tell them to f**k off?”
By Greg in TN
April 3, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this
Scoots, agree with you. Not everyone can tout such an advantage.
DOB, Mike has the edge right now, that’s for sure. Pedro was walking awful gingerly to the clubhouse the other night.
I really like McCann’s quote. The Phillies have stumbled out of the gate. We looked much better last night and we have a great opportunity this weekend to see where we stand at this point and jump on the mets.
By Boby's Cox
April 3, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
ncscoots
fastasballs, Braves saw an average of almost 4 pitches per PA last night. Don’t believe I can characterize that as “impatient”.
wait. that was without KJ in the lineup? Impressive. Oh yeah, and that came in the braves 1st win of the year.
By Mike S
April 3, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this
Boby’s Cox, and who exactly would we trade Kelly for?? A backup first/third baseman or a bullpen arm?? No way.
By McFann
April 3, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this
DAP—
I agree completely with your 6:53 post. I think it’s about time they treated every game like a must win!
By jed
April 3, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this
you know, at 15 million per year, i’d figure DOB would be on a better stretching program. pilates, yoga, swimming with dolphins…something.
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this
Boby’s Cox Can’t you spell your alternate screen name correctly when you change it???
FYI, it was Skip Caray who said Prado was an average fielding second baseman.
I trust Skip’s opinion much moreso that your’s or Overlord’s. Or are you one and the same??
Go back and spell your screen name correctly next time, name changer!!
BTW, we have nothing against Prado, only against those that would try to alter the truth.
By bravesfamninmetsland
April 3, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
Just turned the game on my baseball package, and my God… Does Sciambi look like Heat Meiser or is it just me?
By DAP
April 3, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
mike wont be making the start tonight
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
UNBELIEVABLE: MIKE HAMPTON has been scratched. No details yet as to why, if it’s weather or injury or what. But game’s going to start late because of it, because Bennett is scrambling to get warmed up.
By bigchiefrg
April 3, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
OH NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!JEFF BENNENT WARMING UP!!!!WTF
By Epinephrine
April 3, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this
Hahaha wow, I don’t even know what to say. Hampton out.
By chuckaluck
April 3, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this
Hampton scratched?
By bravesfan
April 3, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this
No Hampton tonight!
By Goodoleboy58
April 3, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
you have got to be kidding me Hampton is scratched already???
By Robert
April 3, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
Hampton got hurt already.
By bravesfan
April 3, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
Hampton hurt himself warming up in the bullpen.
By Dawgsfan1990
April 3, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
Hampton’s been scratched…anybody know why??
By DAP
April 3, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
looks like jeff bennett is going to get the start. they dont want to risk mike hampton in this nasty weather. im watching the pregame on sports south.
we will have to wait to see hampton’s comeback.
By TennesseePaul
April 3, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
“These games are just as important as the ones at the end,” McCann said. “Last year [during a Braves midseason slump] we were like, ‘Yeah, we’ll get ‘em tomorrow.’ I think this year we need to get them early, so later on in the year we’re not talking about trying to catch teams
Awesome DOB! Glad to hear the team wants to do its homework the day it’s assigned instead of putting it off until the end. Having said that, I can’t help but think if they lose the series against the Mets they’ll come back out and say “we’ll get ‘em tomorrow”.
By Randy S
April 3, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
What the fudge?
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
Mike S Though I wouldn’t necessarily advocate trading a guy like Kelly Johnson, if I were going to trade him, it would be for a starter, or a high potential prospective starter.
Not that I would trade him at all.
As some here have alluded, I think KJ’s eventual position might be at third or first on this team. Unless of course, he improves at second. (Overlord and Boby’s Cox shudder at that thought.)
By The Piece
April 3, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
Hampton scratched…
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
Hampton scratched from the start, unreal…………………….
By Mark C.
April 3, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
Apparently Hampton is a scratch. I’m sure DOB is on the case.
By William
April 3, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
Well, he we go again…………
By Justo
April 3, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
New prediction since Hampton is a P***. Bennette 6Ip 6H 3ER 3K, Tex and Frenchy still do they thang, so braves still win 5-3.
By Gamecock Brave
April 3, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
Hampton scratched, i saw the winse on tv… uh oh.
By Salt Lake Brave
April 3, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
Hampton’s not going tonight. So it begins anew.
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
Wow….
No Mike Hampton. I really hope he is okay. I hope he starts tomorrow night against the Mets.
Dodgers pulled Chad Billingsley out of a start because it was too cold.
As I am writing this, I just saw Mike Hampton grimace warming up.
Why do we give Mets fans crap about Pedro???
I understand people think Pedro is their “#2”, but I never did. Maine is that team’s #2- and he deserves to be, the kid is nasty. Perez as the #3. Pedro #4.
Same slot to me.
Anyway, I really hope Hampton isn’t too badly hurt.
By Murphy
April 3, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this
No Hampton huh. They did the same thing with San Fran last night.
By Jared
April 3, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this
Should have known Hampton wouldn’t pitch.
Just call up James now. I know you save no money doing it, but I wouldn’t mind the Braves just flat-out releasing Hampton now. This is ridiculous.
By joesizzle
April 3, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this
let the rip on hampton session begin! dude…seriously.
By TJ
April 3, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this
Hampton scratched? Didn’t make it through warmups.
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
April 3, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this
* YO DOB *
Man - I had back spasms once when I was a player and I know how annoying the pain is so I sincerely hope they go away quickly. I used to chew on some spicy jerky while my back was flairing and it help to distract from the discomfort.
Feel better dude.
By rupert
April 3, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this
hampton scratched, what gives DOB?
By Curt
April 3, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this
Well so much for Hampton. They showed him grimace while warming up but it could also just be because it is cold. Any word DOB? Also any idea if this will change the Santana vs Smoltz match-up I have tickets to?
By Sir Stealth
April 3, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
I can’t believe he actually didn’t make it to the start….you can’t make this crap up.
By craig
April 3, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
Hampton has been scratched! what a wuss!!!
By BillsNV
April 3, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
MLB.com shows Jeff Bennett pitching today instead of Hampton? Did he hurt himself already?
By Lenny
April 3, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
what’s wrong with hampton?
By cricket
April 3, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
What happened to Hampton ???
By Jeff321
April 3, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
Well, well, well.. Hampton isn’t starting after all. I am SO OVER this loser. SHEESH!
By brewdawg
April 3, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
…and hampton isn’t starting. great.
By TennesseePaul
April 3, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
Hampton is out. Ha! I knew he couldn’t do it.
By jimmac
April 3, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
I am not shocked - at noon today I thought Hamoton should take a pass
By Stephen
April 3, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
I knew he wouldn’t pitch, highest salary, least contribution.
By Daybed Wagmoe
April 3, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this
Hampton scratched from start, Jeff Bennett starting. WHAT THE F*@#????
By Eric from MO
April 3, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this
Prado is a good utility man, that is it. Boby’s Cox you talk about Prado having the better OBS in the STs but you leave out their OBS during the 07 season. You tell about Kelly’s 05 season but what you forget is that he started out 1-30. You take away his first 30 at-bats and he had a pretty good batting average.
By Greg in TN
April 3, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this
Hampton a late scratch, Jeff Bennett is starting. Boog and Joe said it could be just a precaution due to the weather (cold and a little damp), however they also ran video of Hampton warming up in the pen and caught a grimace after a pitch was thrown.
By Mikey
April 3, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this
What, Hampton is not starting? Bennett is warming up and therefore a delayed start. They showed Hampton grimise when he was warming up. I can’t believe this although I guess I should. DOB called it with an injury stopping him from pitching.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
So lets see how “mike” bennett does today.
By Braveheart
April 3, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
ARE YOU FREAKING KIDDING ME WITH HAMPTON?!?!?!?
By WoodstockJake
April 3, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
Hampton Scratched?! Say it ain’t so! DOB, what’s the scoop?
By BroomeDawg
April 3, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
Just for those of yall who dont have the game tonight Hampton was scratched..no word on why yet. Bennett is starting in his place.
By N8
April 3, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
Hampton out! Go figure.
So I guess everybody mocking on Pedro for getting hurt in his first start (myself included), at least he was ABLE TO MAKE his first start! LOL!
Oh well. I guess we get to find out how good our “depth” really is, huh?
Go Jeff Bennett!
By TennesseePaul
April 3, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
if it’s weather or injury or what
Not going to pitch because of the weather. Classic.
By jed
April 3, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
way to go, hampton! hell yeah! i knew you wouldnt let me down!
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
What’s going on at the game??? What happened to Hampton?
Go Jeff (Jared, here’s your shot)
By joebrave
April 3, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this
OMG: Just shoot Him and Put Him out of his Misery!!! This is a Joke!!!!!
By DAP
April 3, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
hampton isnt hurt…they scratched hom to prevent injury. he will start when its warmer.
By craig
April 3, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
I think i saw what happened to Hampton. I think a gnat landed on his pitching hand causing a deep bone bruise… Bummer for him!
By Fan-per Jones
April 3, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
Hampton ready; I’m banged up
Does this mean that you’re ready now DOB?
By phar71
April 3, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this
WHAT IS GOING ON WITH MIKE???
By Jared
April 3, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this
Again, I like KJ and his work ethic, but he’s the most tradeable guy on our team
Why is that, hmm….? Doesn’t it make you think when you say Johnson can get this guy or that guy and imply Prado cannot? Maybe other GM’s know who they’d rather have everyday at second base between Johnson and Prado? Johnson should be every bit as untradeable and untouchabe as McCann and Francoeur, in my opinion. He’s one of the Braves’ better, if not best, young position player.
Really, is 35 at-bats even worth mentioning? Anyone can put up stats over a 35-hit stretch to make themselves look like Babe Ruth.
No one is saying Prado is a bad bench player, or a bad player period. It’s trying to pass him off as an everyday major league second baseman on a contending team where it becomes laughable….especially when you have a guy like Johnson.
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this
good first inning for Bennett. Hope he can go 4 or 5 so the pen isn’t shot for this weekend against the Muts.
By Pete H.
April 3, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this
I think they just scratched Hampton to add some tension to the 2014 blockbuster, The Mike Hampton Story. A real tear jerker.
By Greg in TN
April 3, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this
Bennett with a 1-2-3 first. Excellent considering he found out he was starting about 20 minutes ago.
By iowabrave
April 3, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this
That has got to be the ultimate tease. Hampton’s even better than my 8th grade girlfriend Sara Briggs. That is going as far as you can without closing the door. Or would that be opening the door? Go get em Jeff.
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this
Jared Shut the he!! up. I get so sick and tired of your negative bu!! sh!t! We will find out soon enough what the problem is, and what do you gain by releasing Hampton now.
My friend (and I use that term very loosely), Your and idiot.
Why would some people be so down on a guy who has been trying to come back?
Oh well, Huddy, Glavine and JJJ sure looked good so far.
(I guess we can hear the footsteps of the Mets fans and the Braves Naysayers coming!)
Salt Lake Brave where from?
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this
People take it easy……. you should be happy that a major injury has been prevented. And you should be happy we have ways to cover for hampton……luxury. Smile…….we are just fine and hampton is alright.
By weston
April 3, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this
Can someone post the link to the radio broadcast again.
I have Dish Network in Florida! Thanks
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this
The problem is we dont have bennett available anymore for this weekend.
By tom a. hawk
April 3, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this
why am i not surprised…simply unbelievable…
By McFann
April 3, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this
Now catching for the Pirates: Buzz Lightyear!!
Sheesh, Hampton! I think it’s time you retire, dude.
By justo
April 3, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
www.wccpfm.com click on Listen Live.
By PutMeInCoach
April 3, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this
Shirley you can’t be serious!
By bravesfan
April 3, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this
weston do this and you can watch the game:
Go to this http://www.tvants-ppstream.com/ and download tvAnts program, then go to this http://www.myp2p.eu/broadcast.php?matchid=9641&part=sports.
By Jared
April 3, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this
Shut the he!! up. I get so sick and tired of your negative bu!! sh!t!
Oh boo-frickin’-hoo. Get over it.
Defending Hampton now puts you in the minority here, not me.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this
Problem is if something happens to smoltz on sunday, we wont have a long reliever. And if Glavine pitches poorly, there i will not be long reliever.
By Gamecock Brave
April 3, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this
weston i got ya. its http://www.wccpfm.com/ if it doesn’t work just post it and ill try to find another one.
By Salt Lake Brave
April 3, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
Wayne in Utah Born and Raised in Salt Lake. Live in Cottonwood Heights a suburb of Salt Lake.
By geauxbraves2000
April 3, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
If Hampton was pulled because of weather, fine, but if he’s hurt, he just needs to retire.
Geaux Braves!!
By BravesFanInRockies
April 3, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
Bennett, Boyer, JoJo … all hands on deck. Bueller? Anyone?
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
Wow. An injury for Hampton. Discomfort where???
I am guessing an oblique strain or something.
This is awful.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this
I. Am. Astounded.
Speechless.
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
Overlord: Per Bennett not being available for the weekend, I suspect you might see someone like Stockman brought up if Hampton is disabled, if even for a day or so before Smoltz is activated. James might even be brought up.
I guess we will have to wait and see.
By Epinephrine
April 3, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
Um…this one could be a long night guys
By TennesseePaul
April 3, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
Strained peck muscle.
By Epinephrine
April 3, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this
Hahaha his left pec
By Chop Chop
April 3, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this
Hampton’s got Chipper’s toes in his body. That’s the only answer. Got him in the pecs this time.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this
Strained left pectoral muscle. Day to day.
By brewdawg
April 3, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this
Strained left pectoral according to the braves announcers. I feel for the guy, but damn it’s frustrating as a fan. I mean, does he have a body part left to injure?
By Kyle Braves Fan
April 3, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
Strained pectoral muscle… day to day. I sure hope this isn’t a big deal.
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
Wayne in Utah
Sorry that I mispelt my blog name after doing maintenance on my laptop. Oh, and I’m not Overlord as well. I don’t use alternate names. I can take the heat for whatever opinions and facts (stats) that I throw out, and wouldn’t need to hide behind Boby’s Cox with 1 “b”. How ridiculous.
But that bothers me that Skip would say that about Prado. Obviously he didn’t have the Field PCT numbers in front of him or was using, as DOB called it, “a real small sample” of Major League at stats.
And Jared Johnson is tradeable. Wasn’t he a trade option at the end of last year? They were talking about moving either renteria or KJ. Good trade of renteria by the way to get JJ and Gorkys. If Prado is ready, which i believe he is, then KJ should be tradeable for relief, or a starter now that Hampton is acting up again.
And, I’m not using a small sample size of 35 AB. I’m giving you 2 years worth of stats, go back and read.
By jimmac
April 3, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
Do you people not understand the positive correlation between cold, damp weather and the increased likelihood of injury? I would have made the change hours ago, but I’m sure Hampton would not have allowed that to happen due to his desire to get back out there. (I would not have strained my left pectoral muscle, because I don’t have one).
By Greg in TN
April 3, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
Strained left pectoral muscle for Hampton according to Boog and Joe and is day-to-day.
By MattyRoss
April 3, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
strained left pectoral muscle…Hampton listed as day to day. WTF. There’s nothing to say at this point except hopefully he can get back soon and make some kind of contribution. I’m sure he’s as disappointed as we are…
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
STRAINED LEFT PECTORALIS MUSCLE (or pec).
Whole new injury for Hampton.
By TrboDawg
April 3, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
I wonder how many people are googling “strained pectoral muscle” right now???
By Bryan
April 3, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
For all the people who said “whatever we get from hampton is a posotive and there aren’t any negatives … ” look at what is happening tonight …
My feelings in spring training: the longer we have to rely on hampton, the greater the risk becomes … and here we go, counting on him and tonight we are going to ride bennet hard or the bullpen hard …
Mike, god love him, is a liability with the potential to be a positive for this team.
By chop-chop-chop-a-roo
April 3, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
mike hampton’s problem: strained left pectoral muscle
how in the world do you strain your pectoral muscles???
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this
Strained pectoral muscle????
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this
It smells like DL to me. But he is listed as day to day. Maybe its only a contracture and not a strained pectoral. It is cold.
By BT
April 3, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this
Strained pec. I am seeing Buddy Carlyle in the immediate future.
By BravesFanInRockies
April 3, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this
If it’s more than the weather, I guess that makes the roster decision when Smoltz comes off the DL easier.
Sheesh indeed.
By Rocky
April 3, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this
I saw Hampton grimace it looked much worst than JUST the weather. I could be wrong but it looked like he tweaked something.
By Braveheart
April 3, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
Hampton’s nipple might fall off if he breathes too heavily.
By BravesFanInRockies
April 3, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
Left pec. Wow. Is there any muscle/joint/tendon he hasn’t injured?
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this
Oh Lord, Hampton strained his left boob. As much as he’s sat on the bench I’m shocked it wasn’t a hemroid that caused Cox to scratch him.
By Bravesfan
April 3, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
Whole new injury, same old story.
By BravesFanInRockies
April 3, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
BTW, could the Braves DL Hamp retroactive to the end of Spring Training and add another pitcher for the next few days? I mean, there’s still the roster move that has to be made for Smoltz, but … ?
By Murphy
April 3, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this
Could not be more “shocked.” When do we get the insurance money back for this season?
By Gamecock Brave
April 3, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this
bravesfan you’re the man
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this
Eric from MO
Kelly is alwasy going 1-30. Did you even look at the splits from last season that I posted in that blog. He’s inconsistent year long at the plate.Hot cold hot cold. That is my point. Go back and look at all the stats i threw out in this blog and last before you criticize on a stats i already mentioned.
No one knows what Prado can do offensively until he gets to prove it everyday like DOB mentioned. But he sure can do a heck of a lot better defensively. The offensive stats though show that he won’t do worse than KJ offensively. And I believe that to the fullest.
By Mike R
April 3, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
This is just another example of why baseball was so much better in the past. I promise you that Bob Feller or Bob Gibson would not have missed a start because of a “tweaked” muscle in his side. Isn’t it funny that Henry Aaron, Willie Mays or Babe Ruth never went on the DL with a strained oblique muscle. It makes me question the work ethic of today’s players.
By westhamutd
April 3, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
Honestly though, can we talk about how terrible Corky Miller is? I know that we are supposed to support the Braves regardless of who they put on the field, but this guy is atrocious. He reminds me of Albie Lopez or Dan Kolb…someone who everyone in the crowd knew would never make it but somehow continues to draw a paycheck while diminishing the overall quality of the team. At least Albie and Kolb had had one or two good years to base their signings on. Corky is a joke and if you don’t believe me, google the “Legend of Corky Miller” to see what the Twins fans thought of him.
Miller looks like some random guy who the Braves went out and recruited because he had a good round at the batting cage at the ESPNZone. Hampton and Hudson should be above Corky Miller on the pinch hitting depth chart.
The man has a lifetime .196 average. Explain to me why we get rid of Salty (admittedly a good trade for Texiera in the long run) and the only thing else we have waiting in the wings is this guy? Todd Pratt would be a more effective backup than this joker.
By Hampton's Body
April 3, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
Please, someone kill me. No one is supposed to be made of this fragile a glass. Why did God compose me of naught but paper and sorrow? In high school, I sneezed so hard one time I missed three years of class. Oh, oh God no! Is that a squirrel? Oh God! It’s coming right for me! Oh God! It broke my leg in half!!! Someone please help me!
By PutMeInCoach
April 3, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
No way on Buddy Carlyle. It’s gotta be Chuck James…left handed and does much better against left handed hitting. Well, when not giving up 550 foot homeruns.
By roan st
April 3, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
At least Pedro made it to the mound and threw a few pitches. Did somebody sneeze on Hampton? GEEZ. He has to be the most fragile puss I have ever seen. Well at least the braves have options with bennent or james taking a spot in the rotation. No reason to count on Hampton anymore with it being his last season under contract. If bennent pitches well tonight and I’m the manager I give him the damn job. Maybe Hampton could serve gatorade to the other players during games. Get something for this big waste of an investment.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this
Jeff has 41 pitches in 2 innings….. he is not making it to the 5th. So bullpen will be banged up for the mets series. Plus no long reliever. That would be a problem. Specially on saturday.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this
Bottom of 9th I lose reception. Braves down 9-5. Damian Moss 1+(7th-8th innings) gives up four runs one unearned. Effective for 1 inning only. Go ahead run scores on Thorman throwing error to catcher. Basner pitches 1(9th) allows two runs before I lost reception. Most effective pitcher Rowanhorst. Barbaro Canizares 4-5. Josh Anderson 2-4. Others so-so.
By Kev
April 3, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
hey guys ,i think we should stop the posting of links and stuff of Tvants, Sopcast… you know that sopcast banned all their MLB games… so we dont get DOB blog in trouble too..please.
By Saltywoody
April 3, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this
Hampton must have sustained the strained pec sometime over the course of the last 3 years while he’s been busy playing graba$$.
Holy Moly. The guy’s like Glass Joe in Mike Tyson’s punchout.
On the plus side, thank God for Jeff Bennett.
By Braves20
April 3, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this
How many of you guys ever played baseball? Two? A strained pec is an extremely common early season injury particularly among pitchers and catchers how thrown five times more than the other positions.
Beside common, it is also relatively minor and Hampton probaly won’t miss more than one start. Or would we rather he give it the old college try in 45 degrees and be out for a few more months?
By brian
April 3, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this
DOB - do you think that Hampton actually wants to pitch and still has the desire or is he just happy to sit back and enjoy his contract? He has had some serious injuries obviously but some like this make me wonder about his drive. People give Chipper crap all the time - that is nothing and that man plays hard and does play hurt a lot. This “strain” just seems over the top to me
By jed
April 3, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this
a dislocated nipple is nothing to laugh about. yall just dont appreciate the physical realities of pitching. i once pitched a pony league game so i know all about it. you throw a few pitches, start breathing a little hard, next thing you know, you’re carrying your nipple off the mound in a paper sack. hampton’s trying the best he can; we just need to be patient. while we’re at it, we should probably give him a couple extra million just for his troubles.
By Roman Gal
April 3, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this
Come on guys…Chuck James is on the DL.
Let’s try to stay optimistic here. Maybe Mike won’t have to go on the DL.
Oh…and by the way, Rome Braves are up 1-0 in the 4th.
By chuckaluck
April 3, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
All you guys ought to get off Hampton’s case. I admire the heck out of him. The guy has worked hard to get back when he could have cashed the check and gone to the beach. Baseball is full of hard-luck stories. We’re seeing one. But don’t fault his effort or his heart.
By richbrave
April 3, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this
Do banned substances cause injuries to muscles? I mean if you used steroids heavily years ago would that be a cause of multiple muscle ailments later in life? Has Hampton been tested for rare muscle disorders such as McCardles disease?
By Datominator
April 3, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this
You’d think a guy in the final year of his contract would at least try to pitch through some minor discomfort. Either it is serious or the Braves are being overly cautious and didn’t leave it up to him. Geez Louise!
By Train Wreck Bystander
April 3, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
I don’t buy the pec strain. I think its a bad case of nerves.
By bravesfan
April 3, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
By Gamecock Brave
April 3, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this
bravesfan you’re the man
How am I the man, Gamecock Brave?
And there is some other “bravesfan”, I have been here for awhile, so change your name.
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
Hampton will be OK, and will pitch for us this year. Yes this does add to “The Mike Hampton Story: a real tearjerker”
lol
By Posting what most think
April 3, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
Mike Hampton is soft,he should be embarrassed.This isn’t anything most people don’t believe whether they express it or not.
By Roman Gal
April 3, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this
By the way, I know some people have been commenting on the necklaces the Braves players are wearing. You can read about them HERE
By Greg in TN
April 3, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
Great play by McLouth to rob Tex.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
Braves20 i agree with you…….after watching the replay its clear that hampton was not in extreme pain, just like some discomfort. It most be something like a cramp. It takes little time to heal. Be patient. Pieces will start falling in their places.
By macdwolfpack
April 3, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this
I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again, the Braves need a Pilates trainer. I’ve never seen a team have so many muscle injuries as this team.
By VolBrave
April 3, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this
Bravesfan is there any reason why it’s still buffering?
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this
dob, as a runner i know a thing a or two about bad backs.
my home remedy, beer, beer, beer, jager, and repeat.
By jed
April 3, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this
richbrave—
you’ll probably catch hell from the sports-hero crew here, but you’re asking the salient question in your 8:04 post. what else is one to speculate?
By Gamecock Brave
April 3, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this
Im pretty sure the guy doing the braves game tonight cannot go 2 min withouts talkin about hampton’s injury. yes its a big deal, but seriously dude, gettin annoying
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
They’re knocking Bennett around pretty good now.
We’ll set April 15 as the over/under for Chuck James’ return. Denizens, choose over or under.
By chase
April 3, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this
They make some spactacular play in deep right center to take away TWO runs then waddaya know..THEY SCORE in the NEXT INNING and add to the lead!
By James
April 3, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this
Braves20, if a strained pec is so common how come i’ve never heard of it ? I’ve never heard Smoltz, Glavine, or Maddux having a strained pec.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
I hope the guy that said this morning that KJ was a better player than yunel……saw the superb play yunel just made behind 2B.
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this
Enough about Hampton.
Lets score some runs off of Zach Duke. He isn’t very good.
By macdwolfpack
April 3, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
Braves are very slow a foot in the outfield with this starting lineup. Not a lot of coverage out there with Diaz and Franceour playing on each side of Kotsay. So far this season lots of balls falling and over the heads of these guys.
By steverino
April 3, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
I can’t be the only person that looked at the weather this week and thought:”Ya know, it’s going to be freezing cold on Thursday, why don’t we let Mike pitch when it is warm and Juri when it’s cold? Ya know, just as a precaution?” Can these people not think on the fly…at all? And please don’t give me that “it was his turn in the rotation crap.” These are pro athletes, they can adjust.
By Posting what most think
April 3, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
Richbrave I think Mikey just got another booboo,he just needs some hugs and his special blankey tonight,poor little fella.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
On the upside…….. yunel and chipper are sizzling. And it looks like TEX has found himself again (but he has nothing to show for…..yet). We will be ok if Hampton just misses this start
By StingerSplash
April 3, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this
Maybe Hampton’s having sympathy pains for the Crusading Everyman. No? Is anyone listening to Pete and Skip tonight because, in all honesty, Skip sounds like he’s not well. At all. He sounds like he is on the verge of having a stroke with the slow delivery and confusion he has, even if he corrects himself quickly. It’s unnerving. I hope the radio network guys are paying attention.
By chase
April 3, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this
I will defend the BRAVES every night from many of the lunatic fringe on here BUT
I must say they have the uncanny nack of making at least one player from every team look like Babe Ruth/Joe Dimaggio reincarnated and make a pitcher or two from those same teams look like the second coming of CY YOUNG..Only then to go on and beat 2 or 3 great pitchers and teams in a row!
It does get aggrevating
By Brad in KY
April 3, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this
I bet half the people on here criticizing Mike Hampton for being weak, etc. are collecting worker’s comp.
By bravesfan
April 3, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
By VolBrave
April 3, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this
Bravesfan is there any reason why it’s still buffering?
It took mine a little while to load.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
Boyer headed to the slab.
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
Overlord
In terms of offensive potential, yes, KJ over Yunel.
I think you are a little too obsessed with Kelly’s defense. The guy is a very productive offensive player.
By flgrk
April 3, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this
westhamutd Corky is a joke and if you don’t believe me, google the “Legend of Corky Miller” to see what the Twins fans thought of him. - Hahaha!! That sight is hilarious. I mean, it’s pretty rough on him, but I can understand their frustration, e.g. Scott “Windmill” Thorman. It’s a little easier to see why Pena is with the club as well.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this
This will be bennetts last inning.
They have to check on hampton tomorrow, if he is not better, he will have to go on the DL, we will need someone to eat innings.
By McFann
April 3, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
Anybody see Boog and Joe’s purple ties? Haha! That was good! Odd…but funny.
Hampton, I gotta say, I hope you cann work things out, dude. Now, on to another subject…
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this
Thanks Bravesfan for that link. I’m watching the game now! It works great and its free!
Look at Matt-D make Duke work, fouling all these pitches out of the strike zone off. Ball 3,4,5,6,7 all fouled off, follwed by a base hit on another ball out of the strike zone. Gotta love Matty-D.
By A-ville Ranger
April 3, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this
Mike Hampton is the biggest p*y to ever wear a Braves uni.
By taylor s
April 3, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
hate to say it but diaz hasn’t looked great in the field thus far. their have been a couple of ball hit where he took some really bad angles.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this
Pirates #3 pitcher is giving us the ZERO. That is more concerning than hamptons “strained” pect.
By chase
April 3, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
I will defend the BRAVES every night from many of the lunatic fringe on here BUT
I must say they have the uncanny nack of making at least one player from every team look like Babe Ruth/Joe Dimaggio reincarnated and make a pitcher or two from those same teams look like the second coming of CY YOUNG..Only then to go on and beat 2 or 3 great pitchers and teams in a row!
It does get aggrevating
By JJ
April 3, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this
I think I strained my pec laughing at some of these comments, like the one about the dislocated nipple.
HAMPTON SUCKS!
So does Tyler Gaytes, I’m so glad we get rid of THAT guy.
By Saltywoody
April 3, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this
Hampton is a bigger tease than all of my high school girlfriends combined.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this
Efrim im not obsessed on KJs D, Yunels play reminded me the discussion this morning. Thats all…….enjoy the game pal.
By chase
April 3, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this
sorry bout the dual post!
This is why I hate it when CORKY plays…It forces Kotsay up in the lineup and essentially creates 2 sure outs in the bottom of the lineup.
Nothing against him, its just like having two pitchers hitting and with Kotsay up higher in the order it just hurts the offense!
By Greg
April 3, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this
I have been a big supporter of Hampton, but this is ridiculous. It’s like he’s inventing injuries. This is beginning to stink of Pavano. I doubt Hampton throws a real pitch all year. We have to stay close and hope we have enough of a package to get a pitcher at the break. Bennett will have to do.
By bigchiefrg
April 3, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this
I take the over on James. He probably doesnt even know who Mike Hampton is. Bring JoJo or Buddy back first.
By geauxbraves2000
April 3, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
Everyone in the free world knows why the Braves aren’t hitting Duke. He’s left handed.
Geaux Braves!!
By bravesfan
April 3, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
By Bobby’s Cox
April 3, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this
Thanks Bravesfan for that link. I’m watching the game now! It works great and its free!
No problem man!
By Mike Hampton
April 3, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
Salary: 14,500,000
Starts per year: 35
14.5 million divided by 35: 414,285.71
I made $414,285.71 today! Cha-ching!
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
Martin Prado just hit a doble to go along with his triple last night. Just saying. ;-)
By VolBrave
April 3, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this
Bobbys Cox did you have to wait a long time while it was buffering? I bet I’ve been waiting 45 mins now…any suggestions?
By joebrave
April 3, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
Son of a B*,Can’t these guys Hit a lefty??? This is unbelievable! Cmon Offense get Offensive!!! Hampton? At least he does’nt have Felix Pie’s curse,I fear the Twisted testicle would finish Ol Mike off!!!
By Posting what most think
April 3, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
Brad,most of us don’t live in Kentucky.
By Jared
April 3, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
Martin Prado just hit a doble to go along with his triple last night.
Too bad Prado still only has one homerun in over 110 major league at-bats. I’m just sayin’.
By joebrave
April 3, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
Looks like Frank will be trying to Trade for new Pen come June!!!
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
My guess is Duke gets racked in the 6th if he stays in there. McLouth has saved him 2 or 3 runs already with some outstanding D.
By chase
April 3, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this
BRAVES..6 hits NO RUNS
Pirates..4 hits TWO RUNS
Top of the 6th already…we can’t afford to get any further behind…
2 runs Sunday, 11 monday, 10 wed, 0 so far on thursday.. They have got to develop some CONSISTANCY!!!!!
By Roman Gal
April 3, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this
That fellow McLouth is a one man wrecking crew.
By chase
April 3, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
on a positive note..BENNETT and BOYER looked REALLY GOOD tonight!
maybe the bullpen is settling down!
and what is the deal with the Braves having to face so many lefties between last year and the start of this year? It just seems like an oddly high number
By jim mora
April 3, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
Playoffs,were talking about PLAYOFF’s?? Right Now I’d be happy to see one damn Run.Playoff’s???
By Snidely Whiplash
April 3, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this
I don’t think DOB is a homer, even though he picks the Braves to win the division every year.
Now, Joe Simpson—that’s a homer. He just said tonight’s microscopic crowd was “better than I expected.”
C’mon Joe…tell it like it is every once in awhile.
By chase
April 3, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
TEX just bailed out DUKE on 2-0 count with one on and no outs…POP UP!@$@##
By ugaman
April 3, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
OK everyone needs to chill on Hampton. As incredible as it seems, no one wants to be out there more than Hampton. For those of you that can remember, he is a major competitor and put it all out there when played. I have to believe that this isn’t that serious and that Bobby has told the coaches to keep a close eye on him, especially with the type of weather there is tonight. So, before we all jump to reactions, let’s just wait this out and see what happens. He’s going to be a major contributor this year, just wait andsee.
By Billy (TBFnB)
April 3, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
hey stat mongers look up our record and stats against LH last year…wonder if their is a scouting report saying the Braves struggle against lefties
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
Regarding the Braves vs. lefties thing:
Actually, before Duke stuck it to them tonight, Braves were hitting .295 (15-for-51) with a .373 OBP against lefties and .254 (15-for-59) with a .333 OBP against righties.
But until this inning (two on, one out), they’ve done NOTHING against a guy, Duke, who won 3 of 20 starts last season (3-8, 5.53).
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
Okay!!!
Diaz with 2 on and 1 out……
By Mike Hampton
April 3, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
That last”Mike Hampton” poster is an impostor.I haven’t made 35 starts since Bobby Cox had knees.Now I’m going to put on my bunny slippers,warm up some cocoa and watch ‘The vagina chronicles’on blu-ray.
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
Volbrave
Yeah. It took a while. I thought something was wrong with it but then it just started working. I don’t speak Japanese so I don’t know what was going on, but hey it works!
Nice hit Frenchy
By ugaman
April 3, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
Bennet looked good tonight considering he pitched last night too. Chipper is absolutely amazing. Boyer pitched well. Diaz speed in left is going to hurt us some this year, let’s hope his bat counters that deficiency. Well, just as I typed that, diaz drives Chipper home. Great job Matty!
By JD
April 3, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
Can Matt Diaz hit or what! Ugly as all get out but, man can he hit.
By Braveheart
April 3, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
This lineup is so damn deep and so damn good with Matt Diaz playing everyday. The attack becomes relentless.
By Braveheart
April 3, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
Way to wipe him out Matty. Attaboy. Hardnosed ballplaying
By Larvell Blanks
April 3, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
Nice slide Diaz. Gotta like the guy.
By chase
April 3, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
UGGGHHH! Kotsay nearly hit into a second DP! HE CANNOT HIT HIGHER THAN 8th in the order…!
Please pinch hit for CORKY please!!!!
By JD
April 3, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
Whatever we gave up for Diaz, it was highway robbery.
By Alllen Brandon
April 3, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this
Hampton, about as reliable as my Land Rover. Boot his as*
By chase
April 3, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
Well…I am happy to eat a little crow when it comes to CORKY..he came through…I still think it does the Braves a double disservice when he is in the game…cause Kotsay would be better suited in the 8th spot!
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
Matt Diaz keeps inning alive with a hard slide (way the game’s supposed to be played, but if I were Pittsburgh’s manager I’d have argued); and the man named Corky drives in the tying run.
Turning out to be a good ballgame here, folks.
By ugaman
April 3, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
Who was that complaining about Corky earlier? I’ll take him if he keeps this up even 50% of the time. Go Cork! The Braves have 10 hits so far, so there offense is getting hits, it’s just a matter of time before they start stringing them together like they did the last two games. Error on Wilson on sharply hit ball. Braves take the LEAD!!
By TJ
April 3, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
Okay, 10 hits so far and 3 runs (one a gift). Is it okay if we “homer happy” now?
By ContactBuzz
April 3, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
Wow…how important was that simple little DP break-up by Diaz?
By jimmac
April 3, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
I wish Corky could hit …
By chase
April 3, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
DOB I appreciate the info on the lefties but doesn’t it seem like they have faced WAY MORE than the usual amount of lefties and I think they were one game under .500 against tehm last year
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
where are the fools that thought Diaz shouldn’t play everyday? Man that guy is a hitting machine. RBI baby!
Man look at Diaz break up that DP! Extends the inning so we can tie it!
P.S. Double earlier for Prado. Professional looking hit going the other way. Look out KJ.
By bravesfan
April 3, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
By chase April 3, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this Please pinch hit for CORKY please!!!!
Glad your not the manager!!!!!
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
Credit that inning to Diaz both with the bat & his aggressive slide that took out Wilson extending the inning.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
Since I criticized Boyer for pumping his fist after that strikeout the other night, only fair to commend him for some stellar work tonight (two perfect innings, three strikeouts). He stands to get the win if the Braves were to retain this lead.
Long way to go, however.
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
Chase
Agreed on Kotsay. Nice player, but he really shouldn’t hit higher than 7th.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
Martin Prad just took a walk, but i guess it doesnt matter, he is a leadoff hitter, he is supposed to hit HRs.
By Joebrave
April 3, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
Now Then,That’s More Like It!!!
By brewdawg
April 3, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
Too bad Prado still only has one homerun in over 110 major league at-bats. I’m just sayin’.
Jared
Exactly what are you saying? If I’m not mistaken he’s hitting leadoff. Not exactly where you look for a bunch of power. I’m not saying he’s a future super-star or even an every day starter, but your post is one of the most pointless I’ve seen in a LOOOONG time.
By Braves20
April 3, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
While our overpaid “stars” hit weak pop ups and two hoppers to the second baseman, the much maligned Corky Miller comes through in the clutch.
By Pete H.
April 3, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
Corky is just a hitting machine. Matt will have to give up the title.
You know, this team is so likeable. You KNOW they’re going to score, and the bullpen, after that disastrous game, has looked great.
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
Prado’s got a good eye at the plate. Lays off some tough pitches, draws a walk, his 3rd in 3 games.
Watch out KJ
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
Chase, just giving you the numbers vs. lefties. Sorry if it didn’t work for you.
Yes, they faced more lefties than any other team last year, by the way.
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
Rough strikeout looking for Yunel. That hurt. He just missed that 3-1 pitch. Osoria isn’t too bad.
By chase
April 3, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
ugaman
I ate my crow about CORKY..BUT don’t you think the fact that you have to get excited over a weak looping single proves what kind of hitter he is!
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
Oh, and Chase, with that sixth-inning barrage off Duke, Braves will actually be hitting over .300 against lefties. Again, sorry if that’s not what you wanted to hear.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this
Oh wait……KJ is into the game……. defensive substitution.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this
E4 on routine grounder that Prado blocked but didn’t field cleanly.
By Jared
April 3, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this
Nice error Prado.
By geauxbraves2000
April 3, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this
You watch the games and you think you remember, then DOB comes up with the numbers vs LHP. I stand corrected on my earlier comment.
If the Braves hold on to win this game, game ball to Matt Diaz.
Geaux Braves!!
By Billy (TBFnB)
April 3, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this
I forget what did we trade for Diaz?
By Pete H.
April 3, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
Corky Miller. You cannot stop him, you just hope to contain him. In this situation, a single is a victory for Pitt.
Lay of Mike. There was a 5 mph hurricane blowing through Turner Field.
Actually, I think we all know that the Braves would keep him out if he had a cold sore. The guy is cursed.
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
Boy this defense…..
By Philliesuk
April 3, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
Looking at the crowd turnout tonight, I am embarrassed by our Atlanta fans. I know this is the Pirates, but come on. It’s our first freaking homestand, people. Unfortunately, I don’t live in Atlanta, or else I would be there. We need a better turnout, bottom line.
By Joebrave
April 3, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
Here’s an idea; Let’s put Andruw Francouer in Center Field,and play Blanco in right,that way we can be spared the painful plate appearances of Mr.Kotsay.
By Muggly Other
April 3, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
I’m usually a “glass half empty” kind of person. But with that said, I’m not too concerned about Hampton, YET.
It’s the worst possible weather for a guy who is coming back like Hampton to have to pitch in. Hopefully, it wasn’t even a major strain and something that he would have pitched with had he not had the injury history AND the weather not so crappy. I wouldn’t even be surprised if he made his next start.
As for Bennett, I’m not judging him by this start. He pitched Monday, last night and had all of 10 minutes warning (or less) that he was starting.
All and all, holding the opposition to 2 runs through six innings with an emergency starter who didn’t even have a half hours notice he was going, ain’t too bad.(and Boyers two innings)
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
Oh, almost forgot to mention: Asked Chipper about making that play with the bat hitting him in the leg last night. He admitted: He didn’t see the bat…
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
And the Prado error and Miller passed ball costs us the lead.
Simply incredible.
By jjrockstar
April 3, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
HAHAHAHAHA. Karma’s a b*** aint it whitetrash braves fans. Keep makin fun of the Mets and Pedro. Maybe you should worry about your own sad pitching staff.
Awwww Mike Hampton pulled a muscle. At least PEDRO made it to the frigging mound. Hampton is a pathetic waste and a complete wuss. Hurts himself warming up. Pshhh….he’l be hurt all year. Guess you got a find another pitcher.
Hudson, Smoltz and pray for a hurricane. Thats right…..Tom My great grandfather Glavine and his 80 mph fastball isnt gonna cut it this year. Unless Tommy is getting friendly calls, hes a useless player.
Suck it Atlanta. Mets take 2 of 3 this weekend, and Santana dominates.
hahahahah mike hampton hahahhaa
By Bookit291
April 3, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
First homestand of the year and you guys cant even pack the stands. Atlanta is an embarassment. Get some fans in that stadium…oh thats right, no one gives a crap about the Braves. I totally forgot.
By chase
April 3, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
DOB gosh man you, bravesfan, and ugaman won’t give me a break about CORKY even though in my 9:06 post I ate crow about him
Oh and now maybe I’m vendicated since CORKY’s PASSED BALL (thought we kept him for his D) just cost us a RUN!!!!
Now maybe I can get some apologies!
And DOB your lefty stats were great I was just expounding on them from my memory of what I thought was a ton of lefties…
Is your back and the weather making you cranky? LOL
By ugaman
April 3, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
Chase,
I don’t think the braves are looking at Corky’s bat as a strength off the bench,(other than maybe some occasional power) but a defensive catcher (so much for that with the passed ball). Regardless, that makes any kind of offense from him gravy and I would take that any day of the week.
By Andy K
April 3, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
DOB: How long will Hampton be out? Or is this a next start situation?
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
Finally saw that vid on Hampton. Does not look serious whatsoever. I’ve had a strained pec once or twice and they heal quite fast. I’m sure Mike will make his next start.
By brent a.
April 3, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
Right now, my biggest fear in life, is that I’ll be lying in the hospital in need of an organ donation, and then, when it comes, I’ll find out that it’s a donation from the body of Mike Hampton.
By bigchiefrg
April 3, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
How bout let Mr Kotsay play center and Mrs Kotsay bat? That would at least be entertaining.
By Can we release Hampton?
April 3, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Can we release Hampton already? This is never going to end with him. I’ve always pulled for him and believe him but this is rediculous.
By Tony C.
April 3, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this
Yep.
Who wasn’t surprised when Miss Hampton suddenly pulled something????
I ask because I bet it’s a very small number
By chase
April 3, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
DOB I’m sorry if there was confusion but I was never talking about how the BRAVES “did” against lefties…I was only ever referring to “What’s up with having to face so many lefties” kinda thing
I could’ve been more clear.
I wasn’t trying to make the case that they stunk against lefties only that they faced a unusually high amount of them!
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
Joebrave
Good freakin’ idea.
By Lee
April 3, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
Ok Mr. Met, It’s fair game. For as much as I made jokes about Pedro the last two days, I’ll give you a freebie tonight. Say what you want.
We’ll still take this weekend though.
By bravesfan
April 3, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
By chase
April 3, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this Oh and now maybe I’m vendicated since CORKY’s PASSED BALL (thought we kept him for his D) just cost us a RUN!!!!
No, Prado E4 cost us a run. If he would have made that the guy would have never even been on base.
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
I thought I smelled a dirtbag Muts fan.
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
How many times are the Pirates going to try and give us this game/series with walks and errors??????
Honestly…
By Muggly Other
April 3, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Hampton and Pedro
Hampton is gravy for the Braves. If he is healthy and effective, it makes the Braves really formidable. If he is injured again, there is still Bennett, James, Carlyle. PLUS, you already have a better rotation than last year with the addition of Glavine. (We don’t have to suffer thru Cormier and Davies again)
Pedro is not gravy for the Mets. They are depending heavily on him.
I hope the Braves won’t lose Hampton, but if they do, they can better afford that loss than the Mets can afford losing Pedro.
DOB
Back problems are the worst! Fellow sufferer here. When it’s bad, there is no way to get relief. I had a six week bout last fall. My back just laughed at Vicodin. No relief, no sleep. And the worst thing is that in many cases, there is no real way to get it to “ease off.”
Hope it gets better soon.
By Joebrave
April 3, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
JJRockstar,Book: You two Mutts Loving PUKES want to meet me and my damn boots and settle this???? You mutts lovin scumbitches find something better to do,like play with yourselves sissy-@ssed ladyboys!!!!
By PatrickCotySutherland
April 3, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
Kotsay is a bum
By chase
April 3, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
KOTSAY is a black hole in the lineup..nothing but DPs and strike-outs with men on base so far!
Efrim we agree on Kotsay but I’d say no higher than 8th if he continues this!
By Braveheart
April 3, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
Jordan Schafer for Rookie of the Year! He’ll have to be up soon enough if this continues with Kotsay.
By Joebrave
April 3, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
Believe I’d hit Blanco first,Escobar2,Hoss3,Francouer4,Texiera 5,McCann6,Diaz 7,and Prado 8. all Weekend!!!
Since Hampton did’nt twist a testy,I wonder if his detachable Nipple,will stay intact for his next Start. Sure as Hell don’t want to see James back up here!!!
By Austin
April 3, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
If you need an inning ending double play or strikeout Kotsay is your man.
I know it’s early but I dont see Kotsay starting everyday come all-star break.
By mr baseball
April 3, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
Said it before and I’ll say it again. The Braves really, really, really need a RH hitter who can play CF. Both these teams also need infielders who can catch the ball. I’ve seen better infield defense (Escobar excluded) in my kids’ rec league.
By Drew
April 3, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Put Hampton in Canseco’s new book. It’s OBVIOUS the guy’s roided out. What a joke of a baseball player. If I were the Braves I would take his a* to court
By flgrk
April 3, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Corky rules! Maybe now I’ll stop being reminded of “Life Goes On” everytime I hear his name.
By chase
April 3, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
tell me that last AB by Corky didn’t look like a pitcher swinging! 2 strikes looking and one weak swing!
he seems like a good guy but I’d rather go with PENA if it was me
By N8
April 3, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this
DOB
“Matt Diaz keeps inning alive with a hard slide (way the game’s supposed to be played, but if I were Pittsburgh’s manager I’d have argued)”
I’m not sure if this has been touched upon, DOB. But Joe thought the same thing until they showed the replay, and Diaz reached out and touched the bag with his left hand as he slid, so if you were referring to him being out of the base-path, he was not.
By chase
April 3, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
That was a HORRIBLE call by the UMP.. neither of those two strikes were close to GOTAY and he only called the third for revenge b/c of the start towards first by GOTAY
Some UMPS let a little power go to their heads!
By Niaccm
April 3, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
“KOTSAY is a black hole in the lineup…nothing but DP’s and strike-outs with men on base so far…”
Last year, you had another name to insert where you have Kotsay’s name.
It was the guy he replaced.
By chase
April 3, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
bravesfan Prado’s error only allowed the runner to 1st base..he couldn’t have scored on the single without CORKY’s passed ball!
By Debra
April 3, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
Lets face it, the guy is a loser. He has serious mental (not physical) issues. If we were honest wouldn’t we call him a woosey. Hampton has mental blocks, not physical injuries. Let him go, he can not be counted upon in April or September, much less October….
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
Hold em Raffy. We got the big sticks coming up in the bottom of the inning.
By godawgs701
April 3, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
Soriano always hangs the Slider!!
He’s starting to look like the guy that gave up all the long balls last year.
By Pete H.
April 3, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
Mutts fans are so classy. Let’s see who appears in the Majors first, Buttboy. Oh, I meant, Muttboy. Hampton or Pedro, you pays yer money and you takes yer cherce.
I really don’t like the Mets, but their fans are just so terminally nasty and ignorant, you just can’t cut the team any slack.
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
Bring up Schaffer. Can’t do worse than Andruw last year or Kostay this year.
By N8
April 3, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
“I know it’s early but I dont see Kotsay starting everyday come all-star break.”
IMO, (and that’s all it is - based on similar situations in the past), Kotsay’s time is going to be a short one in CF.
He’s a fine player, who happens to be coming off of major surgery. If he hits even a little in the 8-hole, thats fine. Not to mention his defense is more than adequate out there.
But if Schafer is tearing it up in the minors and Kotsay is struggling, or fighting nagging injuries that keep him from playing anywhere near what he’s capable of. Schafer will be up sooner than later. IE: just like Francoeur was when the Jordan/Mondesi tandem wasn’t hitting a lick.
But like I said. He’s a decent CF, he’s a pretty good hitter, and everything that DOB has said about him and his reputation is that he’s a GREAT club-house guy. So his leash will be MUCH longer than Mondesi’s was.
But since Schafer has been dubbed a fantastic CF and deemed “ready to play defense now” by Bobby, if Kotsay ain’t hitting and it’s late May or June, it’ll be Schafer Time.
By Luther
April 3, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
Just a nasty fastball, exploding
By bgvt
April 3, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
Chase —
Wilson’s “single” that drove in the run would have been a double except that he pulled a muscle running to first. The ball went all the way into the left field corner.
By j-school dropout
April 3, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this
Hate to agree with the crowd. I’ve always liked Hampton, but his injury history does smell of steroids. They make you really prone to tears and strains.
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
Somebody get Metroman off the field.
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
Niacom…
I never said anything against Andruw..i’m a huge AJ fan and think he is a sure fire first ballot hall-of-famer
You’ll never see another one like him defensively and lets not forget, in his bad years he still hit 25-35 homers and drove in over 100 runs!
By bravesfan
April 3, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
By chase
April 3, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
bravesfan Prado’s error only allowed the runner to 1st base..he couldn’t have scored on the single without CORKY’s passed ball!
Yeah, but if Prado makes the play he never would have even been on BASE!!!
By Contra
April 3, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
what is it about this damn team where they CANNOT score a single run in a tied, late inning game?
this is the exact same thing that plagued us all of last year and i cannot figure it out for the life of me.
i also love getting owned by yates in all three games in this series.
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
Why have we been makng YATES look like Lee Smith out here?
By Andy K
April 3, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this
Guys…geez…give Kotsay a chance…it’s only the fourth game of the year…not to mention our all-star first basemen is hitting in the low 100s…you wanna throw him under the bus too?
By N8
April 3, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this
“If we were honest wouldn’t we call him a woosey.”
What in the HELL is a “woosey”???
In my neck of the woods (hey….where’s Al Roker on tonight’s broadcast?), we would say…..wussy.
“Last year, you had another name to insert where you have Kotsay’s name….It was the guy he replaced.”
And just think. Only a “few” million dollars separate their salaries. Actually about 11 million dollars - and actually a savings of about 15 million for the Braves since Oakland is picking up about 5 million of Kotsay’s 7.5 million dollars.
Let’s put it this way. If we’re getting about the “same” worthless production for 15 million dollars LESS. That’s a “win” in my book.
By Tony Almeida
April 3, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
Don’t worry about Tex huh DOB? Whatever. Tex is this years Andruw Jones. What a waste. Maybe the Braves will get smart and trade this guy before the deadline.
By Don
April 3, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
Guys, Again in Baseball the contracts are guarenteed. They are NOT going to release, cut or trade Hampton and eat the money. If he stays on the team insurance pays, if he is cut, the Braves pay 15,000,000. But that will not be an issue. I am surprised they let him try to warm up in this type of cold weather, just not thinking. He will be fine when things get going and he will win at least 10 games. Probally more, but he will NOT be released, cut or traded. So stop that line because you come across as not being real smart.
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
bgvt… you think the catcher would’vd scored from 1st base on a double?
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
bravesfan…by that rationale you are saying “since Prado didn’t do his job, its okay that Corky didn’t do his”
By Deep Throat
April 3, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
This Chris Resop guy really sucks. How did he sneak onto the team?
Fun fact: Resop, spelled backwards, is ‘poser’.
By N8
April 3, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
I haven’t complained all night. But I’m about to.
Extra innings is NOT where Bobby does his best work. He does his best work when the starting pitcher goes 8 innings, and we enter the 9th with a 6 run lead, and the bullpen and bench players end the game where they started….on the bench.
So this game is about to get “interesting” to say the least.
Let me get this straight. We’re supposed to not only contend with the Mets and Phillies, but win the East. Yet the Pirates have taken us to extra-innings twice in three games.
Yikes!
Why again, did we trade Tyler Yates? I guess it’s his impeccable record of consistency. LOL!
Appearance #1….DOMINATING.
Apearance #2….Not so much.
Appearance #3…DOMINATING.
Such is life as a fan of a team with Tyler Yates in a major set-up role.
DOUBLE YIKES!
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
RESOP is all over the place! gonna cost us the game if hes not careful
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
Damn…….you can’t walk the leadoff guy. Last one didn’t score, so what’s the odds of this one coming home.
By michigan jeff
April 3, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
at some point, Hampton’s gotta suck it up. Stop being a baby and pitch. Pull your weight or go home.
By Mike Hampton's superfluous nipple
April 3, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
Joebrave I assure you sir I am NOT detachable.Don’t you think Mike being in a seemingly permanent, weakened condition would remove me if possible without surgery ?I do feel guilty that Mike’s tiny heart has to waste energy pumping blood to a useless appendage such as I.Then again how much more useless could a third nipple be than the rest of him ?
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
ALRIGHT CORKY LOVERS…
*THAT is a 2nd CRUCIAL PASS BALL by CORKY *
Got a runner to 3rd with less than 2 outs!
And we kept Corky for his Defense
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
Man, 4 games this year (against WAS & PIT) and we’ve got 2 extra inning games, 1 tied going into the bottom of the 9th, and a nail-biter heading into the last of the 8th before a blow-out win.
Is it going to get any easier?
By N8
April 3, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
Time to start my ranting….
Corky Miller…huh?
Let’s see if he can cost us this game all by himself (even with his go ahead RBI).
And apparently the reason we traded Tyler Yates, is because we have his carbon copy STILL on the team in Chris Resop.
They BOTH have electrifying stuff. But so does a 220 outlet if you plug in your dryer with a wet hand. That’s not to say the “results” of either of the 3 is completely desirable.
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
first and third ONE out… we NEED a DP!
By couldawouldashoulda
April 3, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
well, at this pace we’ll be playing in about 79 more extra inning games this season…we’ll eventually get some clutch hitting…right?
By Contra
April 3, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
great to see we have corky in there for his defensive prowess! he’s really been living up to expectations in this game
i’m referring to resop as “poser” until further notice. gearing it up to 98 mph is worthless when you have no command and no effective second pitch to speak of
yeah, of course it’s early and it’s a long season, but these signs thus far are pointing to everything that went wrong for us last year
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
So far it looks like kotsay was a mistake……. but at least he fields his position.
Just like AJ, lots of defense no offense.
I thought miller was supposed to make the roster over Peña because of his defense. So far his defense has not impressed me.
By boca brave
April 3, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
some observations (aided by some very nice gin and tonics-the brits did give humanity some real gifts): 1. hampton-no comment 2. we released tyler yates? wow! we must have a heck of a bullpen 3. If tex is always a slow starter, can’t we just bench him until may? he’s not doing much now except hitting some monster pop-ups 4. i’ve heard of guys with “warning-track-power”, but kotsay has “second-base-power” 5. bennett and the pen have done OK tonight!! 6. corky’s catching ain’t so great, but he did get a thundering base hit 7. are we setting a record for extra inning/wrap it up in the bottom of the 8th and 9th games? i’d like a nice 7-zip game in the 4th sometime…this gin is really good…wait have i had too much? Resop in left field???
By Bobby's Cox
April 3, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
Wow, another passed ball putting the go ahead run in scoring position. Pena isn’t better defensively than Life Goes On?
Corky has to go sunday when smoltz is ready.
By N8
April 3, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
Alright! Who replace Bobby with a manager that’s willing to gamble?
OMG. This is SO setting him up to be second guessed (if not first guessed). LOL!
But I love it. Way to use your noodle Bobby.
Unreal.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
Wow, Cox is going to an obscure rule here.
Chris Resop remains in game, moves to left field, and lefty Royce Ring comes in to face LaRoche.
He’s obviously doing it so that he can have Ring face LaRoche, then bring Resop back in to keep pitching.
But meanwhile you lose Diaz. And Ring will be done for the night (Cox said before game they’ve been holding him back each night just to face LaRoche, since they knew Pirates wouldn’t pinch-hit for LaRoche).
Folks, Resop has reminded us tonight why he was put on waivers last fall by the Angels, hasn’t he?
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
I thought Corky was so great with the glove? 2 passed balls isn’t getting the job done at all.
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
WOW, know bobby has impressed me. Amazing move.
By richie
April 3, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
I am glad something is thinking the same as I am about Resop. His 90+ mph is not impressing me. He has horrible command. Just horrible. Also the high pitch counts to hitters makes me see why he was DFA’d by the Angels. Resop in Left Field? Good…he’ll have better location out there
By michigan jeff
April 3, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
Loved seeing rally killer laRoche up at the plate. Good thing he’s out of town.
By Gamecock Brave
April 3, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
OH MY GOSH, BOBBY COX! he never ceases to amaze me
By N8
April 3, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
I’m officially gonna back off of Bobby for a while.
That was brilliant. Not sure why he hasn’t done that more often in extra innings in the past?
Even if the run ends up scoring. Gotta give him credit.
Nicely done.
By brian
April 3, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
Cox trying to manage tonight and get creative????
Ring did his job! That is how you come in and get a lefty out
By chuckaluck
April 3, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
Wow. This is at least entertaining. I would love to see Bobby’s lineup card when this thing is done.
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
what the hell is this? Little League
By Saltywoody
April 3, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
At least PEDRO made it to the frigging mound.
Much as I hate to admit it, this is 100 percent true.
By bgvt
April 3, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
Hey Chase:
Chris Gomez was on first after hitting into a force play. While he doesn’t have blazing speed, he runs faster than the catcher. I’m not sure whether he would have scored but my guess is that Prado’s error was the bigger culprit in leading to the run.
By brian
April 3, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
our bullpen is going to be burned up in 1 week or less. Hope Hudson can go 9 tomorrow. I do not know if anyone else will have anything less in the bullpen
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
WHY WHY WHY WHY WHY WHY do we keep pitching to NADY with runner in scoring position and TWO OUTS? WHY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By bravesfan
April 3, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
Resop STINKS!!!
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
WTFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF
Why the hell do they keep pitching to FFFFFFFking Nady????????????????
I hate coxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
By N8
April 3, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
What do you know? Xavier Nady LEANS OUT OVER THE FRICKIN PLATE and gets another RBI (in extra innings mind you).
Here’s a novel FRICKIN concept!!! How about pitch around that guy?????
Unreal. Maybe we should have traded for him this off-season. Apparently he’s turned into Miguel Cabrera with the stick.
SOAB!!!!!!
By bigchiefrg
April 3, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
i dont care if resop can through 195, if he cant through strikes he is no use…i think this assures us who’s goin to richmond saturday nite.
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
hey but liberty media saved about a million dollars.
the braves cant consitently score runs in close games. same thing as last year.
By StingerSplash
April 3, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
Xavier Nady=Braves killer. Thank God he and Oliver Perez aren’t on the same team.
By Goodoleboy58
April 3, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
didn’t the twins stick Rick Aguilera out in LF for a couple hitters in the ‘91 series?
By JohnGTFan
April 3, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
Pathetic
By TJ
April 3, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
I JUST DON’T GET IT!
Royce Ring, career against RH batters: .182 avg; .284 OBP; .286 SLG. In all most as many plate appearances as against lefties.
Bobby has just become obsessed with “matchups” to the point of managing like this is little league. I appreciate the creativity, but am really concerned about our bullpen, and its use.
By Beach Dawg
April 3, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
Can anyone tell me the significance of the “cables” many of the Braves, including Chipper, are wearing around their necks?
By mr baseball
April 3, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
We’ve all heard of situational lefty relief pitchers, but having a guy on your roster who is only allowed to pitch to Adam LaRoche is stretching things a bit. After throwing 11 pitches in the 9th and not having pitched since Monday, would it have been unreasonable to send Soriano to the mound for a second inning.
Unless the Braves come back now, this will be three one-run losses and a blowout win. What Cox just did was cute, but that may not change the team’s 0-3 record in one-run games.
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
Where the hell is evyone who was giving me grief earler for complaining about Corky?
By Royce Ring
April 3, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
I strike out LaRoche and you remove me to put in a sucky pitcher who wasn’t pitching good to begin the inning?
By jed
April 3, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
wow…remind me never to take bong hits during a game. i’m sitting here with my head reeling and next thing i know cox is putting the pitcher into left field then bringing him back in to pitch. did that really happen? this is some good weed…
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
Still gave up the run & Diaz is out of the game. Cox has managed to use almost the entire bullpen once again & it’s only game 4.
By j-school dropout
April 3, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
Let’s concede this game and save what’s left of our pitching staff.
By Bravesuck
April 3, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
hahaha man…..way to hold the fort braves bullpen!
last night your all ready to crown the Braves NL East champs. You might want to win a series AT HOME FROM THE FRIKKING PITTSBURGH PIRATES.
hahah…..real scared of this team. cant beat the pirates in your building hahah Pathetic.
By bgvt
April 3, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Chase —
Chris Gomez scored on the play — not the catcher. While Gomez doesn’t have blazing speed, with two outs, he might have scored. I don’t know. I do think Prado’s error was the bigger mistake of the inning.
By JohnGTFan
April 3, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
I’ve got my money on a 1-2-3 bottom of the 10th. 10 pitches, maximum. 1-3 to start season against Nationals and Pirates…YIKES!
By N8
April 3, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
Let me get this correct. We have 10 hits, the Pirates have 3 errors and we have a lousy 3 runs scored?
That’s not gonna cut it people.
So, DOB. I understand that Bobby wants to give McCann some “days off”. And I can’t Imagine him starting him Sunday Afternoon (though Saturday’s is an afternoon game too, right?).
So with the off-day after game one of the season, was it REALLY necessary to give McCann TODAY off?
Unfortunately THAT is one of the problems when your catcher is one of your better hitters, and you have a manager that gives him regular days off. It just means that in 20 percent of your games, your offense will be considerably weakened.
By Niaccm
April 3, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
Chase
Most insiders, including Braves play by play guys last year, agreed that if Andruw had hit situationally (which he did very little in his career)he should have had 130 rbi last year.
Comparing offensive stats between Kotsay and Andruw is like apples and oranges. Kotsay isn’t supposed to hit 30 HR’s and drive in 100. He never has and never will. But if he stays healthy all year and is the Braves CF, he’s going to hit more than .220.
I don’t care if Kotsay keeps the CF job or not. I’m just saying it’s a fact that Andruw was the guy last year who you described Kotsay being this year. Of course some folks have short memories.
By Contra
April 3, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
wow kotsay probably missed that by 3 feet
By Andy K
April 3, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
You wanna bash Kotsay now? HUH?
By Braveheart
April 3, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
Schafer who?
KOTSAY!!!!
Triple!
How fairweather am I?
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
Good hit by KOTSAY but if he hadn’t been going into his HR trot to first he may have had an Inside the parker
By Rocky
April 3, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this
I thought the 2007 season ended? Apparently not because they are playin the EXACT same way as last year. Inconsistent AGAIN. We need to get it in gear and not wait until September to start playing good like we did last year because THEN it will be TOO damn late AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Bravo123
April 3, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
not good gentlemen. can’t drop 2 of 3 to the lowly pirates….then feel good about the Mets coming into town.
Mets pitching and bullpen is worlds better than Pittsburgh. I hope we can get these bats going soon…its concerning
By brewdawg
April 3, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
Like I said last night: Xavier Nady is the clear favorite for “Braves Killer of the Year”. What an awful start to the season. Not just record wise, but as far as having to use our bullpen so much this early in the year. Hudson may pitch 7 or 8 regardless of his effectiveness tomorrow (within a reasonable pitch count of course). Ugh
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this
No clutch hits! This was the worst effort so far!
11 hits and only 3 runs when the Bucs had 3 errors
they had 4 runs on only 6 hits
1-3 going into a tough series..time to wake up
NO CONSISTANCY 2 runs, 11 runs, 10 runs, 3 runs
have to take 2 outta 3 from the MUTS
By ssiscribe
April 3, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this
Ugh.
—30—
By Beach Dawg
April 3, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
We kept Resop and waived Yates — help me understand!!!!
By Jared
April 3, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
Please, please, please get rid of Resop.
Too late with Moylan warming up Bobby. Might have wanted to use him BEFORE Resop.
0-3 in one-run-games for your Atlanta Braves.
By N8
April 3, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
TJ
“Bobby has just become obsessed with “matchups” to the point of managing like this is little league. I appreciate the creativity, but am really concerned about our bullpen, and its use.”
I saw those numbers too the other night, and you are DEAD ON about Bobby’s obsession with the righty/lefty matchup.
It’s the same reason he used to bring Remlinger in to face the lefties, even though they were hammering him that year.
I’d rather have a manager look at EACH PITCHER’S numbers rather than what the damn “book” says to do.
So, while I commend Bobby for being creative as well. You are correct. The RIGHT MOVE would have been to just keep Ring out there for one more batter.
It might not have worked either.
But unfortunately, when this game went to extra-innings, my gut feeling came true.
By Austin
April 3, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this
Andy K
I wanna bash Kotsay for not busting it down the 1st base line.
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this
Niaccm you just cannot say that someone who had nearly 30 homers and over 100 rbis was a blcak hole in the lineup…That is just dumb..sorry
Guy has over 350 homers and he is only 30. and Kotsay’s defense does not even come close to comparing
By Contra
April 3, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this
gotta love this team!
they give you just enough hope to keep you interested only to leave you devastated in the end.
anybody remember the mets game where we loaded the bases on wagner only to score nothing? how about the yunel clutch hit in miami that tied the game only to lose it? or the 7 run come back on arizona that ended in a loss?
atlanta braves baseball! welcome to the bigs!
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
Cox gets his 2nd loss of the season…….his 0-2 Nady just killed him. He deserves this loss.
Once Brian missed that 1sst strike over the middle…..he was out. Why didnt he swing at it? The pitchers was throwing strikes to everybody….overaggresive, thats why kotsay got to him.
We are really sokking, i was relaxed before this game, but this is starting to look really bad. 1-3 against nats and bucs.
I have to say we had tons of bad breaks and bad luck. But bad decisions and errors are taking care of us.
We lost this game before it even started, plus we burned the bullpen even more.
Has a long season just kicked off?.
By Alan
April 3, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
This from Richie at 10:23pm:
“Resop in Left Field? Good…he’ll have better location out there”
Laughed out loud and woke up the dog. Hilarious…thanks for a laugh that takes the sting off the loss.
By monty
April 3, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this
Another one run loss.It least they are consistent. How many times are they going to let Nady beat them? only guy on the Pirates who has consistently hit us and every time ther is a pressure situation he comes through for his team, at least against us. Maybe Bobby will put two and two togther soon. Corky Miller kept for his defense and 2 passed balls in one game that hurt.
By N8
April 3, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
“Unless the Braves come back now, this will be three one-run losses and a blowout win. What Cox just did was cute, but that may not change the team’s 0-3 record in one-run games.”
Yeah…..but we outscored the Pirates in the series (24-18), while averaging 8 runs per contest. What more can you ask for? The offense is “doing THEIR job”, right?
By scott boras
April 3, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
Unprecedented bad luck start.. 3 losses by 1 run.2 in extra and one in bottom of ninth! we have scored more than given up and 1-3…all starters respectable starts. Boy This is just painful right now we could be 4-0 or 3-1. i knew and called it when nady stepped on the plate on the games. aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
1-3 against wash and pitt. we have no bench.
middle of the road payroll teams always have holes.
it is pretty evident that our bench is flat out terrible. no experience and zero power.
go on say it is early, but we just lost a home series to pitt. cant get those games back.
have not seen a thing from our offense that leads me to believe that we are better.
starting pitching has been good enough to win all four of these games.
gotta start scoring runs early in the game.
By BravesDave
April 3, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
Have to wonder if McCann would have had two passed balls tonight that cost the Braves two runs. The Braves are finding some interesting ways to lose this season - walk-off HR in game 1. Extra inning 3-run homer in game 2. Extra inning loss due in large part to a passed ball and an idiotic insistence on pitching to the only Pirate doing damage in every possibly damaging situation, with a pitcher in left field, in game 3.
Depressing start to the season. 1-3 against Odalis Perez, Gorzelanny, and Duke (I leave out Snell because he is respectable). 99.9999999% of us would have expected 3-1. So much for expectations.
Bring on some more losses this weekend!!!!!!
By Austin
April 3, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this
Whose bright idea was to have Resop pitching to Nady instead of Moylan? Oh, thats right Bobby Cox.
By Bravesfan79
April 3, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this
So we either win by 10 runs or we loose the game?? This sucks.
How can a human being…ESPECIALLY one in decent shape like Hampton, have that many problems?
That young guy on the broadcast looks like someone id chug beer with at a keg party….he looks like the fat guy at the party whod get wasted and somehow end up running around shirtless half the night…man who did he blow to get that gig huh?
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this
3 one-run loses…stinks of last year..we have got to get this turned around…2 outta 3 against the Muts will do it! Leave town 3-4..a sweep would be better! Huddy, Glavine, Smoltz!
By Niaccm
April 3, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
Chase
No he wouldn’t have.
I watched the replay to. He probably would have rounded third, but they would have held him.
So I suppose Andruw would have had his big rump even to third?
By Overlord
April 3, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
BTW, Cox move was not the best….. even if Kotsay hit a 3B. The right move would have been to sit kotsay and leave Matt in, then blanco after him.
It worked out for bobby but you dont sit matts bat and let kotsay hit. Blanco can play CF, if you are gonna go crazy at least do it right.
By Resop and Tex... Nightmare
April 3, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
Tex isn’t worrying me… he’s p** me off. DON’T SWING UP AT EVERY SINGLE PITCHH!!!!!! And Resop is a bum. That sure was the right decision trading Yates and keeping him, or Boyer for that matter.
By j-school dropout
April 3, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
Wow! That sucked the big one.
By TJ
April 3, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
N8, geez, I’m steamed. Been a Bobby Cox supporter forever, and still am. But we’ve used virtually every reliever in 3 games out of 4 (and Ohman in all 4).
He even pulled Moylan last night for the sake of “matchups.” I thought he was supposed to be our lock down 8th inning guy! He can’t pitch to a right handed batter?
You can’t warm these guys up and put them out there that often. I don’t care if it’s 2 innings or 1 batter. It’s what killed Yates (who is better than Resop) last year.
Meanwhile the Mets are sitting in their hotel rooms resting and taking notes on this. We’re not set up well for this series (well, except the starting pitching matchups, I guess).
By Rocky
April 3, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
Really who did NOT see us scoring just a few runs and getting ZERO clutch hits? I mean this is BASICALLY the SAME offense from August of 2007 and that offense was very inconsistent but we have Kotsay in CF INSTEAD of Andruw Jones. That is the ONLY difference for the lineup. But I was hoping with a FULL year of Tex in the Cleanup spot our offense would be MORE Consistent. But it looks like the same ole team. I am so not surprised that Yates owned us tonight.
By Greg O.
April 3, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this
I was watching the game on the DirecTV package and got the FSN Pittsburgh feed. The announcers went into a long argument about how it’s a double-standard that Bobby Cox was allowed to go to the mound first and call the umpire to the mound when making a “double switch.” They argued that the rule states you must go directly to the home plate umpire when making a double switch. Proof positive that these talking heads on TV often don’t know what they’re talking about. Since two players did not enter the game, it’s not considered a double switch. Here’s the rule (Rule 3.03): “When two or more substitute players of the defensive team enter the game at the same time, the manager shall, immediately before they take their positions as fielders, designate to the umpire-in-chief such players’ positions in the team’s batting order and the umpire-in-chief shall so notify the official scorer.” Only one player entered. No immediate conference with the umpire necessary.
By Austin
April 3, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this
Someone might want to mention to Blanco that in Major League baseball the object of the game is to get on base. You cant achieve this said goal by watching 3 strikes.
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
Passed balls & an error cost the Braves the game. Also the 3 runs that McLough saved with his glove didn’t help either.
The worst thing about Hampton not pitching it what it did to the bullpen for the series with the Muts. With Smoltz, Glavine, & JJJ the pen is going get it’s share of work, but any extra work is really going to have negative effects.
Cox gets himself in trouble with the so-called book he manages by. He can blow through a bullpen in a few innings with this match-up crap. I could understand sending Resop to LF had Diaz not been batting 2nd in the bottom of the inning. He would have put the bat on one of those fastballs that Blanco couldn’t.
By chase
April 3, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
Before everyne starts pushing the panic button agian letme remind you
THERE ARE 158 GAMES TO GO
And we started 7-1 last year, the Phillies started 3-9…how did that work out????????
Complian and vent but be realistic and stop the over-reacting panic!!!
By bfan54
April 3, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
“Bad Moon Rising”. That’s all I’ve got to say. This was bad managing, plain and simple, no other way to explain it. You can’t lose games like this. The hitters didn’t, the SP didn’t, the bullpen didn’t - so why’d we lose. (Hint: Soriano only thru 11 pitches. Corky Miller was chosen over Javy Lopez, for starters!)
By Joebrave
April 3, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
Can you say 1 and 6 for this pathetic bunch of Overpaid,OVERHYPED @SSKLOWNS!!!! Watch the Damn SCUMBITCH MUTTS OWN OUR ARSES THIS WEEKEND!!!!
DAMN!!!
By Bobby Cox
April 3, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
To be fair, we’ve faced some really tough teams to start the season in the Nationals and the Pirates. We’ve had some bad luck. I thought our bullpen has thrown really well, especially Resop. His fastball is zippy, comes out of his hand real easy. We’ll get ‘em tomorrow with Huddy.
By chop-chop-chop-a-roo
April 3, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
A few things:
Tex has to start hitting—he was 0-for-5 today with 5 LOB…that’s just ridiculous.
Resop should be run out of town. He throws hard but has NO control what-so-ever.
Kudos to Bobby for trying to get creative.
By Niaccm
April 3, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
Chase
Making out like Andruw was anything close to what the Braves needed from him last year just shows that you are smoking crack again!
Geez man, he was dropped so low in the order last year that I thought Bobby was gonna pull a Tony Larussa and let the pitcher hit in front of him! Bobby moved him back up in the order and he STILL stunk it up!
Chase, go buy a Dodger jersey and get the Extra Innings package to watch “your man!” He doesn’t play for the Braves anymore.
By Cold Hard Fact s
April 3, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this
I am going to lay this out on the line as a true Braves fan. This team has lost 3 out of 4 to the Pirates and Nats. Don’t really care to hear this nonsense about this being the 1st 4 games of the season. If it was towards the middle or end of the 2008 would it make any of us fans feel any better. He!! NO. Luck is not on our side this season. Hampton and our hitting compared to the Pirates proves this again tonight. So does the other games played so far this season.
I went through this in the 70’s and 80’s with this team and at the present time I see a lot of comparsion to those teams. Overall good hitters, ocassionally good starting pitching, questionalble bull pen; overall good players but however the bottom line is that they team always seem to find a way to lose a close game. Those teams in the 70’s and 80’s did this a lot.
Well with the Mets comng up this will be very interesting. Cox needs to chew some butt; however, this is not going to happen. I think Larry Bowa would be the answer to managing the Braves at this point. At least he would keep fans on the end of their seats. They need some a$$ to spark them. I am just getting disgusted at these 1 run loses. Cox is burning the bull pen out quickly. This team will stand no chance of winning with this managing style asthe season goes deeper. I am sorry folks but when things are going wrong who is the 1st to get the blame…….the manager. He is a Hall of Famer as a coach but this team needs someone besides Cox at the present time.
By Joebrave
April 3, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
This is what happens when you go to Spring Training and PLAY GOLF and NOt TRAIN!!!
Golf is about as useless as t** on a boar hog!!!
Fore,Look Out Braves golf Team,there’s a Baseball Seaon Happening!!!
By Rocky
April 3, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
The sad thing about it is that we get UP for the Mets and we will probably either Sweep the Mets or win 2 out of 3 against them and THEN lose the series to the Marlins later this month and look bad against other teams this month also. Why cant we get UP for all the damn series INSTEAD of just the Mets?
By N8
April 3, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
The “homers” will say that the offense is “fine”. That McCann, Tex and now Kotsay ALL just “barely” missed hitting HR’s that would have made a difference in two of the 1-run games.
The realists that are worried about this team’s performance in “tight” or one-run games, will say……Xavier Nady DIDN’T miss a single thing.
Hey. Didn’t the “slides” of 2006 and 2007 start out this way too?
With all the optimists saying the same crap they’re saying now, like:
“it’s only so & so amount of games…don’t worry about it….it’ll turn around….it’s just a slump….it can’t last….this team has too much talent”
Maybe it’s time to face facts people. The young players on this team, just aren’t used to winning, and might not ever be.
For those that think Tex’s bat is the “difference maker” (which I happen to think it is), I bet there are a WHOLE BUNCH of Rangers fans that are wondering why they didn’t win when he was on their team.
Chipper, Glavine, Smoltz (and Kotsay), are the ONLY guys on this team that have every won ANYTHING.
Period.
Talent should win above all, but EXPERIENCE WINNING is hard to come by.
We might be farther off than we think. Though that seems difficult to swallow.
Who knows. But this feels an AWFUL lot like the past two seasons, no matter how much it seemed like it was gonna be different.
Why is that?
By chase
April 3, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
Niaccm
Say what you want about Andruw..he’ll be laughing all the wall to the Hall of Fame!
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
Is it alcohol that causes some of you guys to get stupid during the game. Or are you just stupid.
Two weeks ago, it was get rid of the bum Yates, now it’s “tell me why we kept Resop instead of Yates” talk.
I love Bobby! I hate frickin Bobby! Kotsay is a bum. What a hit Kotsay! Kotsay, why didn’t you run harder?
Prado is great! Prado sucks. Corky sucks twice! Corky is OK now. Let’s trade McCann. He can’t even get a pinch hit!
Jeez.
The team has some issues (all teams do, look at the Tigers!).
Just give it a rest folks. Everything is so emotionally on edge here during games. Now I remember why I walk away from this blog at times. Some of you folks are well reasoned, and others of you are just plain crazy. Your not fans. A fan doesn’t rail on his team after 4 games. We have outscored the other teams by 5 runs, but yet we are 1-3. The Mets are coming into town.
Get your act together, and quit acting like frickin 3rd graders that whine and cry every time they don’t get their way.
How’s the back holding out Dave? Hope it is getting better. Thanks for your work! pretty OK job!!! :-)
Get your homework finished, and lights out McFann! (Heap will do better tomorrow!)
:-)
By tvsportscaster
April 3, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
The sky is falling, the sky is falling.. The sky is falling. You guys are freakin hilarious, it’s four freakin games.. Chill out.
By Tomas
April 3, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
Who is worst: Mike Hampton, Carl Pavanno, or mark Prior. I think Hampton is injuring himself in purpose or something so he can make hes 14.5million without breaking a sweat. DOB is he going to te DL, or what? Whats the official word on him, how much time will he miss beside the last two years.Resop sucks, I prefer Yates. If Resop doesn’t improve i think the braves should give a chance to phil stockman.
By TJ
April 3, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this
Cox just said on postgame tv that Reyes will be brought up.
By chase
April 3, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this
COX just said HAMPTON to the DL and he seems very very aggravated
Even Ron Gant commented on how Cox looke angry/irritated
Chucky will take Hampton’s next start and Jo-Jo will be added to the bullpen
By BravesDave
April 3, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
There are just so many frustrating situations with this team. Why is Corky Miller on this roster? When is Francouer going to learn some discipline? When is Cox going to stop sitting McCann for 20% of the season????? He is a 2-time All-Star. Are the Twins sitting Mauer? Are the Dodgers sitting Martin? McCann is 23 years old, I think he can handle playing 150 games. I wasn’t a huge Yates fan, but does it ever make sense to trade a pitcher with a wicked breaking ball and a 97 mph heater? For a middling AA pitcher? Can Pena’s defense be worse than Miller’s??? Can Cox mismanage a bullpen any worse than so far this season?
I cannot believe we are only 4 games into the season and I already want to pull my hair out watching this team.
By Joebrave
April 3, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
How bout instead of no Music in the Clubhouse,you Instill No More Damn Golf until the Season is Over!!!
Tee Time 12:00 tomorrow!!!
By Bops
April 3, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this
This next series with the Mets is going to tell us all what to expect this year. I hate to put too much emphasis on it this early but just imagine if the Mets sweep us? Being 1-3 isnt the end of the world by any means. I can’t remember when it was but we were swept by the Expos some years ago and won 101 games. The Braves just need to look at the Mets this weekend very seriously. THESE are the games you will look back at when all is said and done.
By Shamus Thacker
April 3, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
HE’S THE GLASSMAN
Wonder how much insurance premiums are on Hammy? Hammy sure did put the whammy on my GlassMan Returns Party. Everybody was kinda down till I explained that Hammy can hire ten 5,000-bucks-per-hour call gals, and not even miss a meal to pay for it! The party was on then!
By N8
April 3, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
TJ
My two biggest gripes about Cox all these years has been that he goes with the “book” with his bullpen match-ups, and that he has too much loyalty, IMO to guys that are slumping or not doing their job.
His “in-game” strategy gets ragged on by many people, but he doesn’t really mess that up that often. It’s who he pinch hits and when, along with when he goes to the pen and who he brings in.
On the broadcast tonight, the Aflac trivia question was “who has the most HR under one manager”. McGwire was 1st, Babe Ruth 2nd, Bonds 3rd and Chipper was 4th.
Joe was mockingly wondering what kind of manager that Miller Huggins was (1927 - Murderer Row - Yankees skipper), and how “hard” his job had to be, with a ton of SARCASM about basically filling out that lineup card.
Kind of reminds me of Bobby’s 1990’s Braves teams with 3 HOF pitchers toeing the slab 3 out of every 5 days.
Only in the post season (when the other teams were good too), did Bobby’s deficiencies truly come out when he actually had to manage the games.
What’s that……oh….I’m sorry. I DID say that I was gonna cut Bobby some slack, didn’t I? LOL!
Oh well.
By Jim Acker
April 3, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
Hey guys, its me Jim Acker from 1988. Don’t worry…the 100 loss season we’ve just begun will fly by…plus, we’ll get a really good draft pick. Tell Frank Wrong and the Homeboy Upstairs I’m available if needed.
By seriousbravesfan
April 3, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
What are the chances of Hampton realizing that his body just can’t stand up to the strain of pitching any more and consider retiring? I think he has the desire to pitch but his body is just not up to it. He shouldn’t need the money and he shouldn’t want to keep drawing a salary that he can’t earn. He deserves better and so do the Braves and fans.
By chase
April 3, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
Niaccm
you are a ridiculous fairweather what have you done for me lately fan..
How bout 2005 when Andruw single handedly carried this team (with a hurt Chipper) to the playoffs
If you think 30 hrs, 100 rbis, and a gold glove is not enough…I’d hate to be you at Christmas..you must never be happy or satisfied with anything!
By Bravesfan79
April 3, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
Why pitch to their hottest hitter?? Why not walk him to get to the next guy?? Im sick of us loosing these close games and its because of these dumb choices. 2 out homerun first game of the season is the perfect example.
Man i cant wait to get Hampton off the payroll….he should play a extra season for free for the Braves.
By David O'Brien
April 3, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
THIS JUST IN: Hampton on DL, Jo-Jo Reyes comes up to fill spot in bullpen temporarily (Carlyle pitched tonight, so he can’t do it) and CHUCK JAMES will be brought up to replace Hampton in rotation for his next start.
They don’t think Hampton will be out more than a few weeks, but too early to tell.
By Tell Us Again About Baseball, Coach!
April 3, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
March 31, 2008 2:10 AM | Link to this
What I predicted five months ago and now firmly believe more than ever, THIS IS A PLAYOFF CALIBER BASEBALL TEAM.
And you can take that to the damn bank and cash it.
By Joebrave
April 3, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
Bring Back Ron Gant!!!!!
By dwaynerice
April 3, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this
I love the Braves, but honestly…please, please someone mercifully put Hampton out to pasture. Really put us in a bind tonight. We have been snakebit the last 2-2 1/2 years. Mediocrity at its best. We hate clutch situations, dread them it seems. and other teams sense it. like someone on here said the other day, we will have 2 or 3 heartbreaking losses, teases of a possible win, if you will. then come around with a blow-out win, like last night: We all have heard it, or said it before: “Did you catch those Braves the other day? Man, they must now be really coming around. Shhhheesh. And Frenchy, on the 1st game of the season at Washington, all he could come up with was, “well, sometimes it’s just not meant to be..” (what with the “aura of the new stadium, pomp and circumstance, etc. etc. excuse, excuse). where is the killer attitude/instinct? Why won’t anyone get angry and PO’ed? too much business as usual. I am pretty sure, that within 30 days or so, this roster, what with call-ups, send-downs, releases, trades, etc. this roster will look different. This (as a pattern dating back 2 or 3 years) is a pattern that “needs-a-changin’” or a swift kick in the arse!! come on, let’s get it gear already..push it!!
By chop-chop-chop-a-roo
April 3, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this
Reyes is going to be brought up? aren’t there better bullpen options than reyes?
By chase
April 3, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
Actually N8
The 2007 season didn’t start out like this…it started out great at 7-1
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
how can any of you fault cox.
his starting pither does not even toe the rubber and we are into the bullpen in the top of the first.
cox did not walk the leadoff hitter in the 10th, it is not his fault that the leadoff hitter reached base only once in ten innings.
your supposed to have a major advantage at home in extra innings. not this team.
besides chipper, we just dont make pitchers work to get us out.
really think we are the same team as last year minus some power.
that being said, i think we still will win 86 to 87 games if the starting pitching stays consistent.
By ippississiM
April 3, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this
That’s it. I’m done. I don’t care anymore. Too many disappointments. I can’t take it anymore. I don’t care if it’s only the fourth game of the season, it’s a new year, same old crap. I got all worked up about the “big improvements” that supposedly came in the off-season, and what do I get? Same old cold bats, same old leaky pen, same old stupid, Stupid, STUPID lumberjack-swinging idiocy at the plate, same bitter taste in my mouth after over three hours spent watching a game when I could have been, oh, I don’t know, doing ANYTHING besides getting upset over a stupid game. This sucks. This totally sucks. I’m taking a break. Wake me up when the Braves break the .500 mark.
By Wayne in Utah
April 3, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this
N8 If I don’t mention it in the next few weeks, hope all goes well for your mother.
One more thing Nate. What teams don’t have questions? You might be right, but it is WAY too early to start doing the sky is falling thing. I think many of the same things you do, but a team learns how to win in different ways. And as much as you don’t like hearing it, it is an incredibly long season.
Don’t let the idiocy of a few here cloud your judgement and get your titz in a ringer.
Night to all rational Braves fans. To heck with the rest of you whiners!
By monty
April 3, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this
From reading several of your comments along with what I already posted, it appears everyone but Bobby Cox knew what Nady was about to do. I think Bobby Cox’s greatest strength is also his greatest weakness. He is too optimistic in certain situations. He thinks “there is no way Nady can burn us again,” but he does. Corky Miller seems to have vision problems. I’m being serious.
By Niaccm
April 3, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
Chase
Henry Aaron is in the hall of fame, but he wouldn’t help the Braves this year. Neither would Andruw. I’ll take a good defensive CF that the Braves are getting for a song rather than paying Andruw 18 mil for the pleasure of another year of his “hall of fame” performance.
By BravesDave
April 3, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
N8, great point on the young guys and the winning mentality. I have been saying that for a while now. Guys like McCann, Francouer, Escobar, and Kelly Johnson are good players. Outside of Kelly, they also seem to come up with some big hits now and then, but one thing they are not is consistent, night in and night out. Johnson is ridiculously streaky. McCann went from .333 to .270. Francouer is just a mystery. So much physical talent, but I am not sure where he is mentally. Escobar might be the best of the bunch. It is hard to win consistently when Chipper is the only professional hitter in the lineup (like last season) or Chipper and Tex are the only professional hitters in the lineup (this season). I will throw in Diaz also, because I am starting to think that he is a better hitter than both McCann and Francouer.
Are these guys winners, though, like Justice, Grissom, Pendleton, etc????
I just don’t know.
By VENEZUELA
April 3, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
DOB WOW !!! THIS IS YUCKKKK
MISERABLE PLAY…there is this baseball saying…the team isnt as bad as you think when it is losing…and as good when it is winning ….but this team has played some horrible games lately…
I think this is a reallity check for everybody including the players…they thought they were gonna come out and sweep the pirates (which also played horrendous ball) …and they got hit in the face literally, now they gotta do like old braves team did, calm down and not make desperate moves…Things that didnt go this days:
1st. DEFENSE…for me this was the worst of the series, and most underrated factor of this team, everybody thought we were gonna be fine but NO!!! Look at this series youll see some horrible plays…Esco may have talent…but hes no sure thing out there…Kelly is less than ok …
2nd. BULLPEN…always said we were laying all our eggs on one basket…we have no absolutely no solid experience aout there…at best 1 or 2 good seasons…Moylan was selling tylenols 2 years ago..dont get me wrong i love his story and his stuff…but championship teams are not built under this type of setup men.-. And he is probably the least I am concerned about——What about RESOP YUCK…no commentS!!! Clearly Frank Wren’s inexperience played him here !!! Ohman i think is gonna do good..as well as Ring…manny is not ready sorry but i love him…but he aint cut for the 8 inn stuff right now..to inconsistent for a championship team…bring this guy with the bases loaded at shea..7th or 8th inn with david wright at the plate he’ll melt…Soriano is good…but is not proven …all in all too much gambles on this bullpen …
3rd. BATTING…this team will bat dont get me wrong…but just couldnt cut on this series…WE CANNOT continue losing 1-run games like last year…
4th. SP - this looked great ! oops hampton just injured a finger writting an email to his buddy DOB to tell him what was wrong …
CORKY DELENDA EST CORKY DELENDA EST…
Cant believe it but Hampton is never gonna pitch again in his life…he has Total Body Failure disease….i was gonna laugh at bravesjournal.com when he pitched today…everything looked great !!! but then the curse HIT!!!!
THIS TEAM I LIKE …but this 4 games have been PATHETIC…we could have almost lost the one we won if it didnt open up late in the 8th
By Mark in PA
April 3, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
Not quite ready to throw in the towel yet…
One stat used to deflate the potential of unexpected upstart teams early in the season is that team’s record in one run games. If a team is winning a lot of those games, the thinking is that they are not ‘structurally’ superior, but are a ‘statistical aberration.’
If you buy that (and it’s usually right), then the inverse is also true: the Braves won’t keep losing one-run games. I mean, come on- what are the odds? Three one-run losses, two in extra innings? DOB has pointed out some extenuating circumstances with each loss (now a scratched starter). Not to make excuses for losing- but the .250 win rate will not last long with this team.
Maybe they’re getting the June swoon out of the way early this year.
By HP
April 3, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
I don’t like the idea of Booby Cox bringing Jo Jo Reyes back rather than Buddy Carlye if its true. I don’t have faith in Jo Jo at all until he improves greatly.
By Steve
April 3, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
Why is this guy still on the roster?? Rub some dirt on it and get out there and play some ball man!! Please get rid of this guy. I know it’s very early, but the Braves look very average at best. The Pirates are not exactly teeming with talent.
By chase
April 3, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
I gotta mess with you a little DOB how about taht glove of CORKY’s they love?
His bat is not good enough to overcome him making VERY VERY Costly defensive mistakes!
By tbo
April 3, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
SOS as it has been for last 4 to 5 years. BC is an absolute idiot when it comes to managing a close game. Do we really think it will be any different than last year. What a joke! Please retire now Bobby.
By HP
April 3, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
Ignore my comment above
By chase
April 3, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this
Niaccm YOU are the one who brought up Andruw in the first place
and make fun if you want but if the guy gets his averages over the nex 4-5 seasons he is going to have over 500 home runs and 15 gold gloves..That WILL get you the HALL and he will still on be 34 or 35
By Teddy Jack Eddy
April 3, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this
Dway,I agree,give Hampton the money and send him home.I could make a fair case that with the extra pitcher the last two seasons the team could be going for their 17th straight division title,or at least 17th straight playoff appearance.
By BravesDave
April 3, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
The worst part about the 3 losses to date is that in each game, the opposing team did all it could to give the Braves the win. Against the Nats, the Braves tie it on a wild pitch. Monday night, the Pirates bullpen implodes and blows a 9-4 lead in the 9th inning. Tonight, the Pirates defense was atrocious. Two errors in one inning. Not to mention, Russell leaving Duke in the game in the 6th inning when he had obviously had enough.
The Braves were gifted oportunities in three games and all three games ended in losses. That is a BAD sign.
By TJ
April 3, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
HP, in his interview, Cox mentioned that Carlysle had pitched (started) today for Richmond, so he really wouldn’t be available for a few days. I imagine that had something to do with choosing Reyes rather than Buddy.
By boca brave
April 3, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this
the gin may be getting to me, but: 1. we will finish with a better record than the Nats or Pirates 2. tex will hit, as will frenchy, and we will score runs 3. we shoiuld just park hampton on the DL so no other team can claim him this year-i’m sure he’d have a miracle cure if the mets got him (he reminds me of a football player at one of our rival schools in high school-fast, big, great moves, tough competitor, impossible to tackle-he put his headgear in my chest one game and not only ran over me but left me gasping for air; but ((you knew there was a but)), he never seemed to make it past the first half-an ankle here, a shoulder there, a knee everywhere-he was definitely not a wimp-he just broke down, constantly.) i’m afraid hampton has reached that point..4. i still think we’ll contend for the division-there’s a good team here-they’ll figure it out……
By Fernando Vina
April 3, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this
It’s a marathon, not a sprint!
By Steve
April 3, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this
Could be an Ugly weekend with Mets coming in…
By uga-brave
April 3, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
the bullpen is already blown up because of the offense.
it would be nice if we could put a little pressure on the opponents starter and have a lead before the 6th inning.
N8 said it and i agree, some of these guys dont know what it takes to win in the major leagues.
we NEED a TRUE leadoff hitter. someone that uderstands how to put pressure on the defense.
By Lee in S. GA
April 3, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this
N8
I will say I agree with the majority of your posts and read every one of them. Realists or Homers, what does it really matter, we are all Braves fan. Each type of person is o.k. within their own comfort zone.
If anyone does not see this team has a major problem then they are only fooling themselves. Somwething has got to give sooner or later. At least at this rate, unless improvement occurs quickly, we can trade Tex for a couple of good prospects or players by midseason and not worry about signing him.
By Fernando Vina
April 3, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this
BravesDave: Do you read tea leaves? It’s a marathon dude, not a sprint.
Where have you been anyway?
By Bravesfan79
April 3, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this
UGA brave: man no way this is the same team as last year, our bench was one of the 3 worst in all of baseball last year. This bench is already 10 times better, and hopefully we kick Corky down soon to make it better. I mentioned that the other night when i said us having a “defensive specialist” as a 3rd catcher on the roster doesnt make much sense. I mean how often does that guy even play defense?? unless its to give Mccan a rest in blowouts (Bobby should start Mccan every game, and as soon as its a blowout, take Mccan out around the 5th-7th inning)
Yet the “defensive specialist” comes up to the plate in crucial situations late in games….WAY more often than hed be needed for any actual defense!
Anyways im watching my favorite basketball team…the Rockets on TNT…Mutombo is amazing and has always been one of my favorite players…i dont know why hes not talked about for the Hall of Fame more…hes Defensive player of the year 4 times and 2nd all time in shot blocking! Now thats a mans man, no bling bling BS for him. BTW…Mcgrady is better than Queen (overhyped) James!
By fastasballs
April 3, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
I’m sure having Hampton scratched right before the game really deflated the players. I’m sure they were all amped up wanting to score some runs & get him a win, only to be disappointed like the rest of us when he came up lame once again.
Watching these one run games is like when I was a kid watching a really crappy R movie just for the nudity, only to be disappointed in the end when all the nudity turned out to be was some guys a* that was shown in the first 10 minutes.
By Casey in Idaho
April 3, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this
What the heck happened to this lights-out bullpen that DOB was writting about all spring? It’s like the Braves just throw in the towel on games that go into extra innings. They have that mentality of: Oh well, we’ll get them tomorrow. Which, over 162 games, that is partially true—but that’s precisely why the Braves suck in the playoffs. You’re going to play a bunch of 1-run games in the playoffs because you face better pitching. And you can’t just toss in the towel and go get them the next day because there’s only 5 or 7 games! So, it’d be nice to win some of these games. Wake up, Bravos! Good teams win the 1-run games.
By Fernando Vina
April 3, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this
Three loses and somebody is already talking about trading Tex. It’s a marathon dude, not a sprint!
By Efrim
April 3, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
I am not sure how any Braves fan can ever again knock the Mets about their injury concerns……
And please spare me with this “Pedro was the Mets #2”…
In whose eyes???? Just because he started game 2 doesn’t mean he is one. John Maine sure is, Oliver Perez is their #3. Pedro is their #4, just like Hampton was ours.
By Les Nessman
April 3, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
Moving the pitcher out of position and back isn’t really taking advantage of”an obscure rule” it’s not used more because it’s a risk to the pitcher’s health and takes them out of their rhythm.Bobby seems to get more erratic every season in his deployment of relievers.
By brewdawg
April 3, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this
ippississiM
See ya tomorrow night :)
By Lee in S. GA
April 3, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this
DOB
How bout some good news. Buy any good CD’S today.
By ippississiM
April 3, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this
One last shot: I’m serious, guys. I’ll be back when the Braves break even. Until then, I’ll check the standings once a day, and maybe scan the headlines, but I’m not getting myself worked up another 158 times for the kind of bonehead crap I’ve been subjected to so far this year. Pythagoras can kiss my backside. This team sucks until further notice. Not even just for not hitting, fielding, or pitching worth a plug nickel, but for getting our hopes up again and again, only to fall flat when it counts.
By The Man
April 3, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this
It’s a marathon dude, not a sprint!
Famous words spoken by Fernando Vina.
Nuff said.
By Casey in Idaho
April 3, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this
Les— Bobby has always been too much of a slave to the lefty-lefty and righty-righty matchups. I’ve seen him lift guys who are blowing the ball past hitters just so he can get the lefty-lefty matchup. Then the lefty walks the lefty, and he’s removed from the game, and a righty is brought back in to face the next righty, and before you know it, the whole pen is used and there’s nobody left for the extra-innings game. Bobby has no idea how to manage his pen. Yet another reason the Braves have fallen short so often in the playoffs.
By Incognito
April 3, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this
Hudson/Glavine/Smoltz and the Mets for the weekend. It will be a great weekend to be out at the park!
And would Chuck James pitch in Colorado next week? Oh Lordy!!
Mr O’Brien: What was wrong with Corky Miller tonight? Was it just one of those fluke games, or is this a sign of things to come. I suspect Brayan Pena might get the next start when McCann gets a breather.
By Roman Gal
April 3, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this
Beach Dawg You’re kidding right??
By Roman Gal April 3, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this By the way, I know some people have been commenting on the necklaces the Braves players are wearing. You can read about them HERE
By Incognito
April 3, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this
Who thinks the Detroit Tigers bloggers are ripping the Tigers tonight?
By Shamus Thacker
April 3, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
Bet Hammy sees it as a small victory when he wipes his butt without being seriously injured, or even killed. You can drown in a teaspoon of water you know… It would be possible too, if Hammy’s hips and torso collapsed and he went completely into the toilet. Somebody should give Hams a heads-up on that…..
By boca brave
April 3, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
IPPISSISSIM…where do you live? i grew up in west point (45 miles south of elvis’s birthplace), and still get back from time to time….
and we’ll be sure to call you when (not if) we hit .500
By BravesDave
April 3, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
Fernando Vina, newborn baby has been taking up all of my time lately. I am actually away on business all week and have been sitting in a bar in Geneva, Illinois three out of the past 4 nights watching this nonsense the Braves are calling baseball. Since I am away from the baby, I have time to post, just been reading lately since time is limited.
I wish DOB would change the title of the blog so that every time I refresh I don’t have to read that “Hampton is ready”.
By Fernando Vina
April 3, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
Mississippi: Don’t go away mad dude, just go away! It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
By Ralph
April 4, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this
JESUSCHRIST, i dont give a $$HIT about Hampton anymore… a strained left pectoral muscle… what else is he going to strain??? a tear on his testicule??? WTF is he made OFF?? Glass, 25 cent paper or what??? Go ahead and retire with your 15 million your going to earn without pitching you dip$hit
By Fernando Vina
April 4, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this
Message to Bobby Cox from one of your former players: Let those guys pitch man. Dont’ be afraid to leave them in for a few batters. Hank Aaron and Willie Mays are retired, and Babe Ruth is dead. Let them pitch. It’s a marathon dude, not a sprint!
By N8
April 4, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this
“If you buy that (and it’s usually right), then the inverse is also true: the Braves won’t keep losing one-run games. I mean, come on- what are the odds?”
You can ask what the odds are. I’ll remind you that this team is NOW 164-164 since the start of the 2006 season, and have been HORRIBLE in 1 run games.
So, I’d say until they prove other wise, that the “odds” are pretty good at the results remaining the same, based on the past 328 games.
Or do you disagree?
chase
“Actually N8…The 2007 season didn’t start out like this…it started out great at 7-1”
You are absolutely correct Chase. Which is why I actually SAID that the “slides” of each season started this way. In 2007 the “slide” began literally the day that Gonzalez went down for the year. Which was in mid-May.
Don’t let the details of my posts get in the way.
(btw: I’m just busting your balz and would have used the little smiley face to show I was kidding - but I wouldn’t want to give the wrong impression about my sexuality)
To those saying it’s a marathon, not a sprint…
That is very true. 4 games does not make a season, that’s for sure. But if you get hit by a bus within the first block of the marathon the odds of you finishing, much less finishing on top tilt heavily against you.
To those saying we’ll be “fine”. I can’t understand how you can be so optimistic, after all of us said for about 80 games last year that “we’d be fine”. With NO RESULTS except for much of the same.
Then we traded for Tex, and NOTHING changed.
In ALL seriousness, I’m certainly NOT saying we can’t turn it around, or we won’t turn it around. It IS (as you all say), very early.
But just like last year, I’ll believe it when I see it. Not when you all predict it. Talk is cheap. Just like most of my ranting posts.
I want to see results. Not hear about how this team is capable of turning it around.
It’s that simple.
Similar to the other night, I’m not angry or freaking out about this team. However as each game passes (especially against allegedly lesser opponents), my “faith” in this team, takes a slight step back.
It’s gonna take more than one nice game (like last night’s 10-2 victory - along with JJJ’s nice Braves debut), to convince me they are for real. We had PLENTY of teasers last year, followed by 8-10 game stretches of Bad News Bears style baseball.
I need one solid month of baseball to convince me.
All winter we talked about HEALTH being a key.
So how does our season start?
With Smoltz on the DL. KJ playing two games and then missing two games (with a knee injury that NOBODY seems to know what is causing it), and now Hampton is put on the DL due to pulling a pectoral muscle WARMING UP for his first start since 2005.
ALL playing significant roles in putting us in a 1-3 hole, while playing two teams that NOBODY should be concerned about.
Not a good start. No other way to put it. Doesn’t mean it’s time to give up. Just means it’s one of the UGLIEST starts (not just the 1-3 record, but the lack of all around good play), in the past 17 years of Braves baseball.
Period.
By Justo
April 4, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this
This sucks. I am sick of hampton you cant count on the guy for anything. And Resop is horrible,DOB u should agree he is a hard thrower not a pitcher. and now we have to see Jo-Jo walk a man Reyes, and Chuck 2 pitch James, this sucks, this season is going to suck. GoodLuck against those mets braves your going to need it.
By Shamus Thacker
April 4, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this
Casey in Idaho, I agree.
I love Bobby, but pen management is his big, ugly, zit.
By Wayne in Utah
April 4, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this
One last thought tonight. I remember when Joe Torre was the Braves manager, and Bob Gibson was his pitching coach. The Braves were terrible in those days. One of the announcers asked Gibson what he said to pitchers when he would go out to the mound. He said he told them this: “If there wasn’t so many people watching, I’d whop you up side the head!”
We need Bob Gibson back!
By N8
April 4, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this
Wayne
“N8 If I don’t mention it in the next few weeks, hope all goes well for your mother.”
Thank you. I appreciate it.
By Shamus Thacker
April 4, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
I wouldn’t board a plane with Hammy if Chuck Yeager were flying it.
By Fernando Vina
April 4, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this
BravesDave You better get your azz back home and help that little woman with that baby! If you don’t, your gonna be up s** creek man!
Your first? Boy or girl? Kids are great. I got about 12-15 of them out there.
Don’t let these games get you too excited, cause you know, it’s a marathon dude, not a sprint! You heard it hear (check me out on ESPN).
By BravesDave
April 4, 2008 12:11 AM | Link to this
Fernando Vina quoting Motley Crue. Freaky, although somehow appropriate since the Braves are quite a motley crew right now.
By Chop Chop
April 4, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this
N8,
How do you propose fixing this Braves team? The only difference this year’s team really has from last year’s is the expectation that the depth in the starting rotation is going to be enough to weather any storm. I personally think it’s BS for anyone to think that guys like Carlyle, James, Reyes, and Hampton (who simply cannot be relied upon for anything) are going to be able to hold it down on the back end, but that’s what the fans are being told. Glavine is no more than a 6-inning pitcher at this point (he threw 200 innings in 34 starts last year, which averages out to 5.88 IP per start), especially if he gets his pitch count up early in the game.
As long as Smoltz comes back healthy and able to go more than 6 most of the time, we’ve got two guys we can count on (Smoltz and Huddy) and a promising young arm (Jurrjens). Jeff Bennett looks like he’s got something for ‘em, but we can’t expect much more than 5 or 6 innings out of a swingman guy.
How do you fix this team? Without any top-line pitching prospects coming down the pipe, the Braves are basically in standby mode. The old guys (outside of Hampton) have to get it done this year. There’s no way around it. If Smoltz is out for chunks of time and Glavine can’t turn the tide before he heads off to wait for enshrinement, the Braves will be worse off than where they were last year, the one caveat being that Jurrjens (as opposed to Chuck James) seems to be the kind of guy who will get better with experience and be a very solid, mid-rotation answer.
Hey, I wish this team was better, but we’re only four games in. Things could get better; they may very well get worse. Either way, I’ll give it at least until 40 games in before I start baying for blood.
By bravesfan
April 4, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this
I don’t know what to say really. 1)Mike Hampton needs to just MOVE on! I mean straining your chest during warm ups…that the best excuse he could come up with. Frustrating to say the least! 2)The Braves have to learn how to win CLOSE games! All those years they went to the postseason, they won the close games. 3)When they have chances to put the game AWAY, they HAVE to! 4)This team is just like last year, an average team at best!!!!!! Grrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!!!!!
By David O'Brien
April 4, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this
For those perhaps wondering, Cox said Moylan was getting the night off, regardless. And it was Resop’s game to win or lose, he would’ve come back out to pitch the next inning if necessary….
Justo, I do agree with your Resop assessment, for the most part. There are always reasons guys get put on waivers. If the Angels thought enough of him to keep him, they would have….
Lee in S. Ga., no, but I’ve got so much new stuff it’ll take weeks to thoroughly listen to it all.
You gotta get the Black Keys if you like straight-ahead rock with a bluesy bent, and the Wrights’ EP is some great country. Tift Merritt’s new one is great, the REM album, we’ve discussed at length (terrific). So much good music out these past few weeks. Steve Earle’s kid put out a great album, and The Van Morrison album’s really growing on me, too. Oh, and I haven’t even mentioned the typically interesting new Joseph Arthur EP that’s out (love that several bands are doing shorter albums or EPs, for some reason. No filler.
By Rico
April 4, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this
This is the kind of total body failure that happens to steroid users. I’m just saying…
By Kev
April 4, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this
Hey DOB and guys, i dont know if it has been mentioned here but the Braves have signed Sal Fasano and assigned him to Richmond. Here’s the link
By mets fan in atlanta
April 4, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this
Its funny that everyone is starting to see exactly what i mentioned last night. “A rotation full of Chuck James” and now they really are going to bring up Chuck James! With the way Cox has burned through relievers so far, do you really think it’s going to get better?
People kept screaming “depth” at me, but when they need someone for the bullpen, do they bring up one of the bullpen depth arms….no….they bring up a guy who we all know isn’t good enough right now to pitch in the majors. With the rook, Glavine, now James (or Hampton), and old man Smoltz, you are talking maybe 5 or 6 innings each night and thats tops. That bullpen is going to die hard by July, especially when they each pitch every night.
That is one thing people forget when we essentially traded Glavine for Santana. Santana will pitch deep consistently in games, where Glavine turned into a 6-inning pitcher about 2 years ago. Saves the bullpen that day, and makes them stronger for the next.
Yeah, i’m feeling good about the mets this weekend, but the poster above who said the Braves always get up for the mets is exactly right. The Braves may win the series this weekend, but then they’ll lose series to the Reds and Marlins and whatever other bad teams they play. The Mets tend to beat the teams they are supposed to beat (with the exception of the last 17 days of the season—i know this), whereas the Braves are ridiculously inconsistent.
But i’ll be there all 3 games this weekend for a great set of games. Hope the weather warms up a little!
By Wayne in Utah
April 4, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this
N8 I know it’s a little late for what-if’s, but if this were your team (you were the GM), what would you do with them?
Would you go for the small chance of getting to the WS (10-20% chance, maybe?), or would you rebuild. If you choose the latter, what would be your first few moves?
It’s obvious with Smoltz/Hoss/BC etc, they are going for the ring. I really don’t blame them at all.
If it were my show, I might would do a 1-2 year rebuild. But then again, it’s not my show.
We have a VERY good nucleus, but we need to get younger in our rotation. I am not going to use Hampton as a scapegoat. I was in Houston when he came up. He is a gamer. As badly as he gets slammed on this blog, who of us would have turned down Colorado when they made him that offer. Also, who can blame JS for taking him on when Glavine left. He had no history of injuries, and had a huge upside potential after the Denver experiment.
What would you do, my man?
By Double Deuce
April 4, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this
Totally agree with Wayne in Utah’s 11:00 post. Last week it was get rid of Yates, this week it’s get rid of Resop, next week will be Boyer’s turn or Acosta’s. Settle down folks. Three games into the season and panic runs rampant on the blog. Do you think Atlanta’s bullpen is the only one with problems? There is a ton of inexperience out there and when the nerves settle down this pen will be better than most. Give them a chance.
By Trippy Hippie
April 4, 2008 12:23 AM | Link to this
In honor of the upcoming Earth Day celebration, we’ve replaced your Hampton with one made of 100% post-consumer recycled toilet paper!
By Robert
April 4, 2008 12:23 AM | Link to this
What scares me is that teams that are bad have a way of losing the game instead of the opponents winning it. The 2 losses to the Pirates, we gave those games away.
By David O'Brien
April 4, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this
By the way, last time a pitcher moved to a position and back to pitching all in same inning was 1990.
By Shamus Thacker
April 4, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this
If the Braves string together the next five in a row we’ll all be talkin World Series again. It really is a tad early to throw in the towel.
The Braves started slowly more than once during the nineties. We ain’t even out of the starting gate yet…
By bravesfan
April 4, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this
I wonder if the Reds will trade us Johnny Cueto for Mike Hampton? Pretty good trade if you ask me…
By N8
April 4, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this
Chop Chop
Your question of how to “fix” this team (I don’t think it’s broken - I just think it’s not functioning to it’s ability - or alleged ability), is a good question.
The ONLY suggestion I have, if this is the group of pitchers we have to live with, is to put the best defensive team on the field behind them, so the pitchers don’t have to get “extra” outs and the bullpen doesn’t have to be burned out by May.
Unfortunately, that might mean going with a guy like Blanco in LF, and maybe even bringing up Schafer earlier than wanted, along with putting our best defensive 2B out on the field.
If the bats of Chipper, Escobar, Tex, McCann and Francoeur aren’t enough, I’m not sure what else to say.
At least in the past, when Javy sat down for Maddux’s start, we had Berryhill, Blanco and Perez (all GREAT defensive catchers), so at least they didn’t COST us games with their glove. Oh, and don’t discredit the fact that Bobby used the “backup” catcher, while the BEST PITCHER IN BASEBALL during those years was on the mound.
But even I’m sensible enough to not panic yet. I just like to pizz and moan. But I’m off of the “I believe this team will win the division” bandwagon, until they show me they want to play.
The Pirates 2nd run tonight, is a PERFECT example of what we’re NOT doing as a team (get em’ on, get em’ over, get em’ in).
McClouth doubles (while taking an outside pitch to left-center - where it was pitched). Next batter grounds out to Tex, and McClouth moves to 3rd. Next guy grounds out and McClouth scores. Next guy makes the 3rd out of the inning.
One hit gets them a run. Seems so simple. Yet for us, it’s not right now.
By BravesDave
April 4, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this
Fernando, a boy, and he is our first. The wife is hanging out with her parents this week, so I am off the hook for now. Plus, since the wife has just become a stay-at-home mom, she can’t get on my case for having to travel for work. Hey, I’d rather be at home with the family anyway, believe me.
I’ll be sure to check you out on ESPN. Do you need to take ‘roids to be a commentator on ESPN?
It is a sprint, not a marathon.
By BamaBrave
April 4, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this
Hampton will have to go 15-0 and hit 8 HRs to get off my sh#tlist… And then…maybe.
By jbutler
April 4, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this
So I was out enjoying a brisk Spring night here in the Mile Hi; came home thought I’d check the game score…and..well, truly. Its Groundhog Day. At what point does the anxiety for whatever new muscle will pop/flare/strain/dislocate override trying to trot his surgically adhesed body to the mound??
Heard a tidbit of an interesting interview w/JS the other day. He was asked by the host if he thought the Braves were better than the Mets. He hesitated and said, “as good as.” Then asked same about Phillies- same answer. When asked about the BoSox, he laughed and said “not a chance”
Only 159 more games to go.
By HP
April 4, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this
When are Braves signing Mark Teixeira to long term contract? They better sign him before he gets hot. How about 8 years for $136 million? I think thats fair.
By Teddy Jack Eddy
April 4, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this
DOB I agree with you on the Van Morrison cd.His voice isn’t quite as strong as it once was but he’s still the man.REM’s new one is their best in many years and rates in their top 5 or so imo.The Black Keys ?? they’re ok but I don’t think I’d buy anything I’ve heard them do.
By N8
April 4, 2008 12:51 AM | Link to this
Shamus Thacker
“It really is a tad early to throw in the towel.”
Even in the midst of one of my rants, I agree.
“The Braves started slowly more than once during the nineties. We ain’t even out of the starting gate yet…”
I got in this argument the other day (forgot with whom), so I’m not gonna get deep into it again.
But those teams of the 90’s had 3 HOF starters that ALL were capable of going 8 innings on ANY given night, (and some of those rotations had 15 game winners in the 4th and 5th spots), not to mention those old Braves teams could ALWAYS play defense.
This team is one of the weakest defending teams we’ve had in years.
Diaz’s defense was “tolerable” with Andruw in CF. Not as much with Kotsay (who is fine - but not great anymore - though I like his arm - which he’ll need apparently), KJ isn’t strong at 2B, and contrary to what McFann thinks, McCann is average at BEST behind the dish. Though, I’ll note that Javy was as well, and McCann calls a great game.
But Yunel, is gonna remind us of a young Furcal by the time this year is over (defensively). He’s gonna wow us on a nightly basis, and then later in the game, kick a routine grounder that will cost us a run. He’s young. What do you do?
Wayne
If I were GM?
I wouldn’t have traded for Tex last year without him signing an extension. I would have traded Andruw before he became a 10/5 guy. I would have STILL made the Hampton trade (it made sense then, and returned immediate dividends - just hasn’t worked out in the “luck” department since).
That being said, I can’t lie. I would have traded Hudson last year as well. So not all of my moves would have panned out. LOL!
But you’re right. Chipper and Smoltz “deserve” another run.
I just think we need to have great defense on the field. Defense might not always “win” games, but it won’t cost you games either.
Plus, if the hitters know that they don’t have to score 10 runs a game, and the pitchers know they don’t always have to make a PERFECT pitch….EVERYBODY would relax a little more (except for me).
Those 90’s teams (early 90’s) were built on starting pitching, great (solid - not spectacular) defense, and timely hitting. NOT all-stars at every position, and guys in the lineup that were liabilities in the field, or playing out of position (like Klesko was in 94).
EVERYBODY was playing the position they were drafted, signed, or traded for, to play. Gant was originally a 2B, but he was horrible and went back to the minors to learn the OF. He wasn’t any better or worse out there than Diaz, but he was a POWER hitter (and our #3 hitter before Chipper), and his speed always made up for his lack of experience out there. Diaz can’t rely on that.
That’s my theory. Defense and pitching. The hitting will take care of itself.
By mr baseball
April 4, 2008 12:52 AM | Link to this
Why do baseball “experts” and the compliant Atlanta media persist with the idea that Bobby Cox is one of the greatest managers ever. His record is largely the product of having Glavine, Smoltz & Avery/Maddux for a decade, along with a host of All Star caliber position players. He may be a womderful manager in the clubhouse, but once the game begins, his strategic inadequacies are evident to anyone who watches the team on a regular basis.
Granted, he began tonight’s game in a bind thanks to Mr. DL, but that doesn’t explain why Soriano had to come out after 11 pitches, and why he thought Resop could get Nady out. Throughout the series, Braves’ RH relievers could not get Nady out. Why would he think Resop was a better option in that sitation than Ring?
Oh yeah. Ring is a lefty, and we all know it is against Cox’s religion to allow a LH reliever pitch to a RH hitter in a key situation. They say that those who fail to study the lessons of history are doomed to repeat the midtakes, and watching Cox manage is living proof of that.
Getting Diaz out of the game was not the brightest idea, but at least it kept Ring from doing what Cox obviously thinks he can’t — get RH hitters out. And how about Gregor Blanco’s MLB debut? A true deer in the headlights moment.
Hudson better go at least 7 tonight, otherwise the next call to the bullpen will be for the former Parkview playoff closer.
By drmaryb
April 4, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this
Mike Hampton
This guy is a royal BUST! He is a lazy bum, who is straining himself while reaching for his wallet!
He reminds me of Al Henderson, who pulled up to the OMNI daily in a drop-top Bentley, bragging about his dad the cardiologist from Indiana!
WTF & who cares, some athletes are not very athletic and have not one competitive bone in their bodies.
Mike Hampton needs a ski-mask, and an OUZI & a get-a-way driver to go cash his pay checks. If I ever saw anyone back up to the pay-window, It’s this Bum.
He should just do the right thing and just turn himself in along with his Gun & Badge.
He is a dirty-cop or a Rouge-Officer whatever, it is that you call yourself once you been caught and confess!
Get rid of this rat! Oh my Bad - You mean no one wants to trade for him?
Didn’t Mark Lemke send us Orlando Cabrera for some bats and a bag of balls? Is that trade still available. Somebody call Lord of London underwriters and see If we can cash in his contract policy!
Geeez! Get rid of this Silent-Killer!
By N8
April 4, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this
DOB
Since Bennett “earned” his spot on the roster as the long man/spot starter.
Why won’t HE be inserted into Hampton’s spot, while Buddy comes up as the long man/spot starter?
Wouldn’t BOTH Reyes and Chuck be better served staying where they are….at Richmond? Reyes for the experience, and Chuck to actually recover from his injury, rather than being put in meaningful games before he’s ready?
Bennett looked fine tonight. Might have done better had he not pitched last night. Just seems odd to me.
By uga-brave
April 4, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this
whatever happened to harold reynolds? thought he would resurface somewhere after his departure from baseball tonight.
fernando vina, since you are now a baseaball tonight guy you might have some insight. oh by the way how are you and albert belle getting along these days.
one walk, and two extra basehits, thats how you loose a game when you get 11 hits and reach base on three errors.
so whats different from last year not much. pitch well dont hit. hit well dont pitch.
bobby needs to shuffle the batting order. cant have the gwinett county all stars and diaz hitting consecutively.
none of those guys see enough pitches and at times make for a quick half inning.
gotta start making the opponents starter work and not get in a rhythm.
on a sidebar, i think the braves miss pat corrales as a bench coach. bobby really needs a bad cop on the staff.
to quote crash davis ” they are kids scare them” i know that is not bobbys style but it could not hurt. you want to get francoeur’s attention bench him for one game or go off on someone when they dont hustle (mccaan)
potential and hope is not exactly a great strategy. i know it is early to get concerned but it is time to wake up.
cant win a pennant in april but you can lose one.
By scott boras
April 4, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this
watch mike hampton will come back strong….well part of the season…..learn from the experts
By Joebrave
April 4, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this
The Pen is already TOAST!!!! Thanks Hammy/Booby!!!
By scott boras
April 4, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this
n8 u got valid points…however if Chucky ready then he should start.AGAIN DONT GIVE UP ON HAMPTON YET!!!!
By Bobby's Cox
April 4, 2008 1:25 AM | Link to this
I know how to fix this team.
Trade KJ for a reliever.
Get rid of Kotsay and put someone speedy in center who can bat leadoff, steal bases, and put pressure on the opposing starting pitchers. We have several in the minors (anderson, schaffer, lilibridge,) and blanco.
Hit and run. This is my 3rd time saying this in 2 days…this team is too homer happy. As a consequence, we suck in games that are close because we are overpowered by the opposing pitching. Example, seeing Chipper trying to be a hero in the 9th tonight by swinging out of his heels against the 1st pitch from Yates, got behind, and struck out. Guys need to just get wood on the ball and slap it into the outfield folks. What’s so hard for you people and management to realize this. I’ve been saying this for years and it’s the biggest achilles of this team! Put wood on the friggin’ ball with the purpose to get on base!!!! Anyway, a hit and run will help remind our hitters that you can get hits and be successful by playing small ball and just by putting the ball in play. “Put ‘em where they ain’t”, and that doesn’t always include over the fence.
Wait till Gonzalez gets back. Hopefully he’ll get back faster than it’s taking Hampton.
Wait on Hampton. He’ll be fine. Show some patience. It’s a peck man. Those heal in 2-3 days tops.
Bring up Chuck James if we need a starter. Jo Jo and Buddy can’t cut it. Sorry folks, they just can’t. Buddy’s stuff is not impressive, and Jo Jo can’t locate consistently yet. If you all want consistency, Jo Jo’s not the guy yet.
Start going to some ball games Atlanta. F*, this is your team and you don’t even go to their games.
Get rid of Corky. That guy’s done. Play BMac more often, maybe 1 day off in 7 games, 8 games. Not every 5th.
Get this team fired up like Yates was this series. I was glad to see the released as it was justified, and p** that his adrenaline got the best of us. Did he ever hit 97 on the gun for us? But we can learn that his intensity in this series could’ve saved him his job, and can win this team some damn ballgames if we adopt that same attitude.
By Wayne in Utah
April 4, 2008 1:38 AM | Link to this
N8 I also would have dealt AJ in mid 2006, and would not have dealt for Tex without an extension (as you state). I was torn on the Hudson thing, but I was not enthralled with the prospects of going after Tommy g in 2007. I still thought of him as a traitor back then. His signing last winter was a smart move. Anytime you can add a guy of his caliber to your #3 spot, that is an upgrade (makes Chuckie or JJJ a 4th or a 5th.).
I would have packaged a group of players this winter (Salty? plus) and made a strong play for either Bedard or Haren.
IT would have been interesting, for sure.
But, from today forward: I would be tempted (I am fairly certain FW will not do this) to deal Tex. Would the Dodgers send Pierre, Loney and about 15-20 million for Tex and Brandon Jones?
WOuld Pierre (with all his power and arm deficiencies) be the spark plug the Braves need at the top of the order? He could either play LF or CF, if we wanted to keep Diaz bat in the lineup.
I would also see if KJ plus some other players could bring a bounty of Rich Hill from the Cubs?
Kotsay would be on a short leash, depending on how Schafer starts out in Mississippi.
I would hang onto our low level, high prospect pitchers.
I would also be looking to groom someone else besides TP for Bobby’s replacement. I didn’t think he showed leadership in the handling of the AJ debacle last season.
To heck with this insomnia, it’s time to take some drugs for this cough, and pass out.
Talk with you tomorrow.
By BosnianBaller
April 4, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this
I know it’s only 4 games but the season is over.I had the braves 3rd in the division before the season.Hope I’m wrong.Just because you have depth at pitching doesn’t mean you have good pitching.You can’t lose renteria,mahay,dotel and replace them with ring,resop,gotay’s of the world and somehow think you have a better team.James and Reyes didn’t cut it before so what makes anyone think they are going to play better now.
By dwaynerice
April 4, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this
In honor of the upcoming Earth Day celebration, we’ve replaced your Hampton with one made of 100% post-consumer recycled toilet paper! —that from Trippy Hippie.. I split my sides laughing…I can’t help it, God is gonna smite me down, but my SNL sense of humor just kicked in. I really think, and have faith, that Mike will get it together and be a decent contributor this year, and no one will be happier for him than me. Actually, I am more concerned about other aspects of the team, all outlined above, and are deep ingrained patterns over the last couple of years..we all know them. And 1 run losses ARE important..shows lack of clutch performance (and not exploiting weaknesses of other teams) just like 1 run wins show clutch performance. I am a Redskins fan, and they typically in last several years have played just well enough (or bad enough, depending on your perspective) to lose..shame to blow thru a bullpen to lose a heartbreaker, while trying to dig deep for a win..blowouts are more tolerable, at least one guy can go out there, eventually in the end, and “take one for the team” and spare the other guys, and (oh no, I am saying it: “go get ‘em tomorrow”) man i thought I was the only one nauseous from hearing that last year, Brian McCann even knew that was a tired platitude. don’t wanna hear that s** this year. come up with a new line at least, like “we are just (performing) very average. I happen to think that, overall, this team is above average..it is not always, or even usually, reflected in the outcomes though. that sux.
By Deep Throat
April 4, 2008 1:54 AM | Link to this
Why’d the Braves lose? Teixeira isn’t playing well right now. No McCann. No Kelly Johnson. Chipper and Escobar can’t do it all people.
By geauxbraves2000
April 4, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this
I for one admire Mike Hampton for all he’s went through, and all he’s done to try to make a come back. But, I really think it’s time for him to hang up his cleats. Some people are just injury prone. This is a brand new injury for him, and I would be willing to say another one is on the way after this one heals.
I’m not trying to beat Hampton down, but for his mental sake and the sake of his fans, I think the time has come.
On another subject, so far the Braves have lost 3 games, and all three losses have come from the bullpen. I thought this was supposed to be a new and improved bullpen, however, so far, the only thing different is some of the names have changed.
Oh well, it’s still early. Maybe the mirror of the last two seasons will fade, and this team will play like I know it’s capable of.
Win or lose (as frustrating as the losses can be sometimes) this is still my team.
Mets next.
Nite all.
Geaux Braves!!
By Moby Grape
April 4, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this
Too bad Prado still only has one homerun in over 110 major league at-bats. I’m just sayin’.
who cares? Trade Klutzy Johnson now. Get a middle reliever or a decent bench player at least. 0-30 all the damm time. Prado Prado Prado rules!!!
By nolie
April 4, 2008 2:06 AM | Link to this
perhaps Prado is perfectly placed in his present position as a part-time player?
By fragilehandlewcare
April 4, 2008 2:09 AM | Link to this
Hampton…an enigma … I think it has gotten into his head a little, being over cautious. Smoltz pitched with a sore shoulder 2nd half of last year. All the players end up not playing 100% … a pec Hampton says… I say man up and throw the ball for the Braves Mike sore pec or not…at least try because you are starting to look worthless to everyone. Jeez … i just pulled my pinky finger hitting the shift button … be back in 15 days to try to blog again.
By uga-brave
April 4, 2008 2:10 AM | Link to this
at the end of the day you get what you pay for.
we have not exactly developed any great arms lately. in order for us to compete with our current payroll constraints, we must have player development.
it is no coincidence that when we cut our scouting budget in 2003 that it would eventually affect us.
a bench of pena, miller, prado, gotay, and blanco does not exactly strike fear into anyone. by the way none of those guys make much more then the league minimum.
kind of the same with our bullpen. besides soriano, who would be considered somewhat proven.
there are gonna be nights when we pound the ball and look great, but there are gonna be a lot of games like tonight. why do you think we never won more then 4 in a row last year.
two out of the three (francoeur, b’macc, or k.j.) are gonna need to have big years for this offense to be consistent.
By nolie
April 4, 2008 2:27 AM | Link to this
What do you know? Xavier Nady LEANS OUT OVER THE FRICKIN PLATE and gets another RBI (in extra innings mind you).
Here’s a novel FRICKIN concept!!! How about pitch around that guy?????N8
previous to this week Nady is a .270/.314/.389 career hitter against the Braves. I guess Bobby just felt like it was gonna catch up to him at some point?
By nolie
April 4, 2008 2:35 AM | Link to this
Yeah…..but we outscored the Pirates in the series (24-18), while averaging 8 runs per contest. What more can you ask for? The offense is “doing THEIR job”, right?N8
yeah old Pythagoras might have a hard time of it again this season.
By The Wizard
April 4, 2008 2:54 AM | Link to this
What are the Braves paying Hampton this year? $15 million. What a joke. Hampton is a bum. And mark my words, Braves fans…David Wright will be the NL starting 3rd baseman for the next decade. He is rapidly becoming the best player in baseball. Even now he is rated #2 to only ARod in the Fantasy Baseball player rankings for all players this year. And he’s only 25 and getting better. He looks better this year than last…looks to be in even better shape…a monster year is assured! He’s batting .462 right now, and has already made 3 spectacular plays in the field after 3 games. He’s getting so good, it’s scary! Speed, power, fielding, hitting…he has it all. Your boy Jones is a great hitter, and a HOFer, but his best days are over. Wright’s stats will surpass Larry’s by the time his career is over, I guaranty it.
By nolie
April 4, 2008 3:22 AM | Link to this
Oh, and I haven’t even mentioned the typically interesting new Joseph Arthur EP that’s out (love that several bands are doing shorter albums or EPs, for some reason. No filler.DOB
I think the industry is sliding away from the album orientation. With so many getting their music as downloads and album sales being off perhaps because of that, I think the short”album” with no filler is the way to go for a lot of guys. I mean with even old f@arts like myself who have thousands of Cds getting much of their music on-line we might be going back to the 50s single days. Thanks again for the Black Keys. Very impressed with them.
By nolie
April 4, 2008 3:28 AM | Link to this
bfan54 I was too optimistic last night. I looked for my early Billy Joe stuff to listen to the lyrics, but haven’t located it yet. Between CDs,DVDs,Laser Discs,Record Albums,VHS & Beta tapes and Books there are way over 10,00 pieces of media stuffed into every nook & cranny of my house. Locating then is sometimes a job for a psychic. Did you go to Amazon and listen to a snippet of Old Lump of Coal to see if that is the song that you were thinking of?
By LA Brave
April 4, 2008 3:36 AM | Link to this
DOB, A few months back you were relating a tale of how ‘cool’ Hampton is when someone said something to him about how short he is and he responded by saying something along the lines of ‘well, let me stand on my wallet’. You used that to relate what a ‘cool dude’ Hampton is. Well, let’s see…a hammy that was never detected on an MRI (actually multiple hammys), a “pulled” muscle in his side (also never detected) and now this pec issue — you still think he’s a “cool dude” when he makes jokes about collecting checks while not playing? He’s pulled off one the greatest grifts in history…and not just in sports.
This story would be better placed in the police blotter than the sports page.
By Moby Grape
April 4, 2008 3:44 AM | Link to this
WOuld Pierre (with all his power and arm deficiencies) be the spark plug the Braves need at the top of the order? He could either play LF or CF, if we wanted to keep Diaz bat in the lineup.Wayne
Pierre? The guy can’t even break into their starting outfield even with that horrible expensive contract. One of the truly most over-rated guys in baseball especially for the last 5-6 years. NO No No!
By LA Brave
April 4, 2008 3:45 AM | Link to this
in DOB’s other article:
“Nobody’s more disappointed than I am,” said Hampton, who missed the past two seasons recovering from two left-elbow surgeries 16 months apart. “I worked pretty hard to get to this point.
gotta give the man credit at least he worked pretty hard for the 80 Mill he got while not pitching
By Double Deuce
April 4, 2008 4:16 AM | Link to this
I find it amusing that we are four games into the season and we have Mr Baseball telling us how the team should be run and then we have someone else telling Chipper how he should hit. Do you really believe any of us think you are smarter than Bobby or a better hitter than Chipper? Given the opportunity to sit in Bobby’s shoes for one day would enlighten you to just exactly how much you truly know about baseball. And I would love to see “Bobby’s Cox” standing behind the cage and repeating your comments to Chipper. One of the greatest switch hitters in the history of the game. When he was done with you your next blog would be about knitting, not hitting.
By Metropolitan Man
April 4, 2008 4:20 AM | Link to this
Do we still have Pedro and El Duque bashers on here? Couldnt be, not with a missing Smoltz and a never appearing Hampton. We all know injuries are horrible and we are to play through them but your rotation is starting to look spring trainingish. I dont know what to say about that Hampton except I’m glad he turned down that contact with the METS in 2001, he could be our problem. Imagine we could have Pedro, El Duque, and Hampton all on the DL right now possibly. Instead, we have Santana, Maine, Perez, and Pelfery which is good to go looking at the rest. The 5th spot should get solved down the line but there are only 4, maybe 5 elite healthy pitchers in the NL east right now.
Hey ODB, when you coming off the DL. Players hurt, editors hurt, managers feelings are hurt, somebody start a braves pick me up party quick. See you guys later…..no I should take that back. Should be only METS fans at the Ted tonight, our new home away from home.
Hers a quick stat for you guys to read:
Traveling south of the Mason-Dixon Line to play the Braves no longer is the trip from hell it used to be for the Mets, who make their first 2008 visit to Turner Field this weekend. The Mets finished 5-4 at the Ted last year to put up back-to-back winning seasons in Atlanta for the first time since 1988-89. They also have completed three-game sweeps at Turner Field in each of the last two seasons - something they had not done in Atlanta since 1985. The numbers:
Year Record Pct.
1988 5-1 .833
1989 4-2 .667
1990-2005 37-74 .333
2006 6-3 .667
2007 5-4 .556
By Manny "Million$" Moore
April 4, 2008 5:53 AM | Link to this
Tyler Yates was the best reliever in that series. Bravo. Bravo. Bravo.
By Manny "Million$" Moore
April 4, 2008 5:58 AM | Link to this
JoJo Reyes? That guy sucks. Always will. Great stuff. Nice kid. Too nice. Is too amazed to be a major leaguer. Instead, he needs to make major leaguers amazed by him.
The third best pitcher on the Braves is still in Richmond. Chuck James, get your dumba@@ back up here.
By Manny "Million$" Moore
April 4, 2008 6:01 AM | Link to this
Let the annual debate begin:
How much can the Braves recover in insurance for Mike Hampton?
By Manny "Million$" Moore
April 4, 2008 6:09 AM | Link to this
When JoJo Reyes is called up to rejoin your rotation in week one, you never had depth. You had sh!t. The same sh!tty pitching that destroyed last season.
Will JoJo get his ERA under 6.00 this year? I hope not. If you are gonna suck, then just go out and really suck. It’s funner that way. Who wants to only sorta, kinda suck?
By Moby Grape
April 4, 2008 6:22 AM | Link to this
Who wants to only sorta, kinda suck?Manny
obviously you do when posting.
By Manny "Million$" Moore
April 4, 2008 6:44 AM | Link to this
John Smoltz better beat Johan Santana on Sunday. If he doesn’t, I will drive my a@@ over to Augusta to heckle Tiger Woods. I’ll personally make sure Tiger Woods never wins another Masters.
Playing golf with and pitching simulated games to Tiger Woods is no way to prepare for a season. Simulated games on backfields against Tiger Woods can be wrapped up within an hour. That way Smoltz makes sure he never misses his precious tee time. Going to spring training games with your teammates and playing in real games would have involved an actual commitment to your team and not just a commitment to playing on the PGA Seniors Tour someday. Smoltz has one foot in and one foot out the door. Smoltz needs to ask himself whether he is with Tiger or is he with the Braves?
And spare me the St. John The Holy Christian Martyr crapola about how fired up he is. We’ve been hearing that same crap for years. After 20 years, he has the same winning percentage that Michael Vick did as a starting quarterback. Spare me. Smoltz was never an ace but he was always a headcase.
20 seasons. Has only won more than 15 games 3 times. Not a Hall of Famer. 15 years and 203 wins as a starter does not a Hall of Famer make. An average of only 13 wins a season for a series of division winners. Spare me, spare me, spare me. Maybe if they let him pitch 25 seasons, he’ll finally get to 300 wins. But he’ll never pitch that long. It would interfere with graba$$ tee time on the PGA Seniors Tour with his beloved Tiger.
The egomaniac never hesitated to call out Chipper or the Homeboy Upstairs. It’s time for Smoltz to be called out. Maybe he would have won more than 20 games one time in his career with all of that talent if he wasn’t so distracted with playing golf and running his mouth.
By Deep Throat
April 4, 2008 6:48 AM | Link to this
Manny, Chuck James is the one joining the rotation. Reyes is likely only here until Smoltz is activated on April 6.
Did someone really suggest trading away Teixeira and getting out-making machine Juan Pierre? I know these three losses in four games to start the season were all disheartening, especially with the way they happened, but that’s no excuse to be that irrational. Pierre is horrible.
By Ted's Cannibal
April 4, 2008 6:50 AM | Link to this
When that temperature rises by 8 degrees like Ted is predicting and we all become cannibals, I will make sure that Moby Grape’s skull is the first I chew on. His skull is supposedly filled with lots of self-proclaimed smart food.
By Pitching Depth
April 4, 2008 7:03 AM | Link to this
Do I suck or did I never exist?
By BT
April 4, 2008 7:25 AM | Link to this
Am I wrong with this awful thought? The Hawks and Thrashers have a higher winning percentage than the Braves at this very early point in the season. 40% of our starting pitching from last year is on the DL (not counting Hampton). Maybe we will all get over this today but now here comes the Mets who we were laughing at this time yesterday.
By Moby Grape
April 4, 2008 7:32 AM | Link to this
His skull is supposedly filled with lots of self-proclaimed smart food. Teddy the meateater
Boy are you gonna go hungry
By BT
April 4, 2008 7:41 AM | Link to this
I will be glad when we have a new blog. The title of this one is just too depressing.
By ncgary
April 4, 2008 7:42 AM | Link to this
for all those disappointed in braves record, try this, place large bets on braves opposition, enough money wagered against braves they win the remaining 158, just saying what we all really know
By BT
April 4, 2008 7:47 AM | Link to this
DOB, Sunday please don’t write “Smoltz is ready” in the title of the blog! May not want to say anything like “Braves Great Defense Will Save the Day.”
By rlpmetro
April 4, 2008 7:49 AM | Link to this
I just got on the blog to read the reaction to Hampton getting scratched last night. You people are A-holes. It’s not Hampton’s fault that he has run into these injury woes. Personally, I respect the guy for not trying to go last night after he strained his pectoral. He could have still run it out there and tried to pitch, and it would have cost the team even more. Give the guy a break, and root for him to heal up and pitch. Anything the Braves can get from him this year is a plus! DOB said it all spring…the Braves aren’t counting on anything from him this year, so anything he does is just a bonus. He was a good pitcher in his last full season starting. Let’s see how serious this injury is, and get him healthy.
By Shaun
April 4, 2008 8:06 AM | Link to this
Right city but wrong team. A-Rod is not only the best 3rd basemen in baseball he is the best player in baseball.
You’re right. Should have said NL.
BT, key words in your post: “…at this very early point in the season.”
By eware
April 4, 2008 8:15 AM | Link to this
I hope Jeff Bennett pitched his way on to this team permanently. He was great last night - considering he only had 7 minutes to get ready - mentally and physically. You gotta love this guy.
As for Hampton…I’ve been rooting for this guy all spring, but he’s done in my book. My grandmother could start more games than him. She made it to Triple A with a wicked slider.
I like that Chuck is coming back. I hope he stays.
Does anyone think Hampton would be better in the pen? It would be cool, but I doubt it could work.
By BT
April 4, 2008 8:22 AM | Link to this
Shaun,
You are correct concerning my email. It was a poor attempt at humor toward our “all is lost friends.” Although I must admit, I am not overjoyed about this week so far myself. I still believe!
By Shaun
April 4, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this
BT, yes. I think as long as they are not 5 games out on Monday morning, I’m not too concerned. Even then, wouldn’t be a huge deal just yet.
By BT
April 4, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this
Happy that no one has said bring back Mark Redmond and Wicky.
By Will
April 4, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this
Mike Hampton is a mental/physical sissy. He is totally worthless. I actually had my hopes up he was finally gonna start last night. Also, what in the world was Bobby Cox doing in the 10th inning?? I think he is losing it, seroiusly!!! This is the same old cant win close games/ cant win home games Braves of last year. Its gonna be a long season.
By Zbrave
April 4, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this
DOB- Now that Hampton is banged up, I hope you are ready. what a mess!(sign)
By Original Jon
April 4, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this
David Well, since Resop wasn’t valuable enough for the Angels to keep and was put on waivers last year, do you think the Braves could possibly get him through waivers without being claimed? I know he is not looking good right now, but this kid has electric stuff and I would hate to give up on it. Sucks that we traded Yates now in hindsight. But I say that if Resop keeps throwing the way he has, he is the odd man out when someone has to go. Ring has looked decent though. I think Acosta needs more time either in the Minors or in Mop up situations.
By Joebrave
April 4, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this
This Just in Mike Hampton tore his pecker while taking a Pi$$!!!
By bigchiefrg
April 4, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this
1-3 is not bad guys. Stick ur chests out and keep your head high because we are STILL the BRAVES!!!! We are too talented to stay in this funk and we will win a bunch of games. No need to wear black today. The next winning streak is never more than a game away. Turner Field better be packed and rocking and rolling this weekend. I am making my 5 hour trek there and everyone else should too.
By Shaun
April 4, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this
Original Jon, are you talking about the same Yates with the 5.12 career ERA and 4.81 BB/9?
By Zbrave
April 4, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this
Oops! There is no need to “sign” here, I meant “sigh.” I’ve got to check the damn spelling. (sigh again)
By Shaun
April 4, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this
Will, the Braves actually had the 11th best record in baseball in home games, and less than or equal to a 2 run margin.
If Hampton were weak, a sissy, etc., why wouldn’t he just walk away from the game and collect his check? That would be the “weak and sissy” thing to do. Instead he keeps coming back risking more injury and embarrassment.
You want to blame someone, blame the Rockies for giving a pitcher who had only had one maybe two great seasons a ridiculous contract or the Braves for trading for him.
By atlbravesfan44
April 4, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this
you can’t pitch around Nady in that situation. Resop has already shown that he has trouble throwing strikes. so what’s he gonna do with the bases loaded? gotta go after him.
By Efrim
April 4, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this
Shaun
You really think being 5 games back on Monday wouldn’t be a big deal?
I mean, we might not be out of it, but it would be quite embarrassing. 1-6 to start the year.
Many people on this blog last year, including DOB, said that the Phillies “couldn’t get out of their own way” when they were 4-11. Now that isn’t a knock on DOB, or anyone else who said it, because I felt the same way. If the Braves are 4-11 after 15 games, are we to say that about them?
By JimD
April 4, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this
Manny, what are you smokin’?
Yes, in 19 years Smoltz has won 207 games. That alone would not necessarily warrant HOF consideration … EXCEPT for 4 of those years he wasn’t a starter. In 2001 he became one of the games most intimidating and dominating light’s out closers. In fact on top of his 207 wins he has 154 saves. No pitcher has ever put up numbers like that from both sides of the bullpen.
Manny, it’s time for you to check yourself into the clinic and detox again, man.
By flange1
April 4, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this
Morning All,
Not a good night at the Ted last night. A couple of responses to the folks from last night:
“Atlanta fans need to support their team” folks it was cold and raining last night in Atlanta. I know lots of folks with tickets that did not want to get out in the nasty weather. It is early in the year and school is still in session. Give us a break! My tickets were used, but still it was not a baseball night last night.
Mike Hampton is a woosey (or wussy). That is one of the most amazing things I have ever read. If folks could go back to when Hampton was acquired and read what was written about him the terms “warrior” and” bulldog” were used many times. Yes he has had a string of bad luck with injuries, but he has fought back from them.
Also on Hampton, remember that before the season started the Braves philosophy was that “any thing we get from Hampton will be a bonus”.
I will admit that I thought he would be healthy pretty much all season and this chest injury is tough and at a bad time, but it is not the end of the world. We do have Chuckie and Bennett and we knew that they would get a good bit of work this year.
“Corky Miller is terrible!” I must admit that is important for the 2nd string defensive specialist to play good defense. Anyone who has caught knows that passed balls can be the catcher’s fault for not catching the ball or the pitcher’s fault for throwing the wrong pitch, but Corky needs to step up and do the things that he has been counted on to do.If he doesn’t, the Braves will keep Pena on the team and release Corky when Spiezio is ready to come up.
“The bench is terrible”. Well, Prado has looked pretty good so far. We haven’t seen enough of Gotay, Blanco and B. Pena to determine if they are good or bad. 2 at bats is not a large sample size.
All in all the team has not shown a spark and has made dumb defensive plays. It is early in the year, but they have to stop giving up so many runs. I am happy with the pen, except for the control issues of Resop. He has got to throw strikes or he needs to go.
We need a good game from Hudson tonight and the team needs to get on the board early.
We will see.
By 18 Wheels of Love
April 4, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
pitching moves by Cox
Genius. I always wondered why this type of move wasn’t used more often. Why waste another pitcher for one batter when you can move him to a temporary position for 1 out and then move him back. I say use that type of move more. Granted Nady did get the game winning hit, but the guy have flat out raked so far this year. Gotta give him credit.
By Hampered Hamstrung Hampton
April 4, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
Stick ur chests out and keep your head high … No need to wear black today.
Why would I wear black when my chest is black and blue?
I’m not gonna stick my chest out. Might puncture a lung if I did.
I’m not gonna hold my head high either. Might break my neck if I did.
By 1957 Braves Fan
April 4, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this
I have been a Braves fan since 1957 when I was in the second grade. I live in Sacramento CA. When my son was younger he was a San Francisco Giants fan. He switched to the Braves when we got cable and could watch the games on TBS. I told him to prepare to be frustrated especially when the Braves hit with the bases loaded. When Yunel struck out in the sixth with a chance to drive in at least an insurance run I knew it would probably be another loss. Let’s start winning these home games against the Mets.
By Overlord
April 4, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this
Good morning all…..Zbrave, Shaun, etc.
I read Kelly injury is more serious than we thought, so we might be in some kind of trouble there. I think braves new before season started and thats why they got Gotay, so for those of you that dont like Prado, get use to him cause you might get to see more than you would like. Which i know it could mean we are in trouble if indeed Kelly is badly injuried. It is not smart to keep from from the DL if he needs it, he didnt even pinc hit last night, and we could have used him instead of Gotay as a PH.
As for Hampton, well its not the end of the world. As far as it aint his surgically repaired elbow, im not so concerned. Gods have told me he will be OK but we need to be patient.
As for James, he is supposed to join the team (Hamptons spot). Is he pitching well? or is he the same old story from last year?
By raindawg722
April 4, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this
I just don’t understand why Resop would throw back to back offspeed stuff off the plate to Nady, who obviously looks for the ball there, when Nady looked completely uncomfortable with the first-pitch fastball strike on the inner half of the plate.
By Efrim
April 4, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this
It is alarming to me, because these are the same things that happened last year.
I am not quite sure why its happening. Is it just rotten luck? 18-25 in one run games is bad, but does that say something about the team, when they can’t have a winning record in one run games?
Crazy.
By KC
April 4, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this
18 Wheels of Love:
I wholeheartedly agree. I loved the move. I thought it was brilliant. We didn’t get the results we wanted, but that was a results of a good hitter doing his thing… or less than stellar pitching on Resop’s part. Take your pick.
The move, though (provided Resop can catch the ball in left) was smart one.
Anyway, it really, really sucks to start 1-3… especially heading into a season I and many others have been very excited about for months.
Oh well… nothing a series win against the Mets won’t solve.
By Scuba-Steve
April 4, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this
So much for out “defensive specialist” catcher last night! And why was Resop throwing junk to Nady when he couldn’t touch his fastball inside! Bad pitch choice!!!!! AHHHHHHHHH!
By scott
April 4, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this
Corky is a joke! Why is he on this team, I pray when Spezio is brought up Corky will be gone. He is the defensive specailist, and lets two balls get by him last night. We should have kept Javy over him. If he can’t catch, then why is he in there. AWFUL!
By Overlord
April 4, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this
Chop-Chop im not sure if you are watching the games or just stats, because i can tell you that TEX has been hitting, last 2 games he has been robbed of at least 4 hits, he is making much better contact, but right at defense or robbed. Hit will start falling eventually.
Better worry about Kelly knee and Hamptons chest.
By Shaun
April 4, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this
Efrim, well, think about this: Zach Duke, a 25-year-old pitcher with an injury history, was cruising along then hit a wall at 100 pitches. He was allowed to continue the game for another 16 pitches and three runs. So it may have been a game the Braves shouldn’t have had a chance in in the first place. Yet they still almost pulled it out.
By Efrim
April 4, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this
KC
Oh well… nothing a series win against the Mets won’t solve.
How about a series sweep to get over .500 before we go on a 10 game road trip to the defending NL Champs, current NL East leaders, and…..the worst team in the National League. And yes, the Marlins are worse than the Giants. At least the Giants can pitch.
By Original Jon
April 4, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this
Yep Shaun, that Yates. He is pitching better than Resop right now, and I would be willing to bet he pitches better than him all year.
By Overlord
April 4, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this
For those that defend COX as is was their mother, there is no doubt in my mind he is the only responsible for our 1-3 start. There is no excuse for a team with so much talent and potential to lose 3 one run games in the 1st 4 games of the season. He let Zimmerman kill us, he let Nady beat us. I said it right after Zimmerman beat us….. why in the hell you let the best player on that team beat us?
Then comes Nady, he show us he is hot, but Cox doesnt care, he just keeps letting the boys pitch him, as a result he has driven in like 20 runs including like 10 game winners in a 3 game series…….. HELLLLLOOOOOO!!!!!!!!
By Efrim
April 4, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
Shaun
Pittsburgh also botched two balls in the 7th and we weren’t able to capatilize. Anyway, don’t you think it wouldn’t be a good thing if we got swept, ended up 1-6, and had to go on a 10 game road trip? I guess it isn’t that big of a deal in the grand scheme of things, but the Braves haven’t really shown me they could rip off 15 of 20. They haven’t done it in a while. These one run games are tough.
By Shaun
April 4, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this
Overlord, I think Prado is a fine fill-in for Johnson. And with the Braves’ offense, as long as he’s not out too long, everything should be fine there. Now, if another key bat goes down, we should worry.
By Overlord
April 4, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
Guess whos leading the majors in RBIs and in less games than a lot of players…… Yes thats right Xavier Nady, thanks bobby.
I feel sorry for Huddy, he keeps pitching like a Cy Young and has nothing to show for. But you bet its not only the bullpen you should point your finger at….. point it a cox also. Point 3 fingers at bullpen boys and 7 at bobby.
Somebody mentioned last night that forecast is not a secret….. we all knew thursday was gonna be cold. Even though bobby decides hampton should go on cold weather…. i suppose he is thinking about this while we speak, that shows you, no matter what your age is and your experience…..you never stop learning from life. Im 100% sure it wont happen to bobby again, i hope he learned the lesson.
The lesson he has not learned is KEEP THE BALL AWAY FROM THE OTHER CLUBS BEST HITTER AND/OR A HOT HITTER IN A CLOSE GAME.
By Adam
April 4, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
I can’t believe how some Braves fans can get so worked up after every loss. I might be upset for a few minutes but tomorrow is another day. Team is gonna take some time to find out what they need and fix. The season is soooo long there is no reason for an uproar. The Phillies started out terrible last year and ended up winning the division. LOTS of baseball left to be played. Lots of things are going to change between now and the end of the season.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
April 4, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this
All this doom and gloom is so asinine. Would you people just be quiet. Just stop it! It is four damn games. Four!!!!!! By all accounts Hampton will be okay. I’m sure his being put on the DL has more to do with his past history injury than the severity of the injury itself. He will probably miss two starts. Three at most. I think Chuck James is a more than adequate replacement.
This team will be fine. The first week isn’t even complete yet. Braves sweep the series against the Mets and they are 4-3. Lets get a couple of weeks into the season before we start panicking. Hell, the Tigers are 0-3 and got swept by the Royals. I bet you won’t hear any gloom and doom from their fans. Its just ridiculous.
By AGTfan
April 4, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
I’m going to withold comments on the Braves right now. I just wanted to say thanks. I bought the new REM and Black Keys CDs yesterday. I would have bought REM regardless, but I didn’t know about the Black Keys. What a great CD! I’ve bought a few other CDs based on recommendations on this blog and thought they were OK, but I love this one.
By Shaun
April 4, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this
Original Jon, “right now”? After three games? Barring injury, Resop will be at least as good over the course of the entire season.
Overlord, yes. It’s Cox’s fault for putting in one of his best relievers from last season in a key situation. It’s his fault for not putting the winning run on base late in Washington. It’s his fault that an otherwise mediocre hitter (Nady) had a good series. It’s always good to give away baserunners late in ballgames. Bobby Cox should know that.
How about we give it more than four freakin’ games before we start calling this team an underachieving one? I guess Jim Leyland and Lou Pinella are responsible for their teams’ “underachieving,” too.
By Overlord
April 4, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this
Shaun you said the magic words… not too long…. for what i read, even Kelly thinks the pain is not gonna go away. I think they are missing something that is really bad. He says he feels like there is a knife in his knee. He says it was like that last year and that he thought that resting would be enough. The season starts and he finds out that 5 resting months were not enough.
By Thrillhouse44
April 4, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
Good point, Adam.
I dig the pitching move by Cox. How cool is it to see that he still has tricks up his sleeve? Resop has to make a different pitch to Nady though. Good strategy, poor execution.
You’re right on with the series win, KC. I think that’ll be a cure all and will get the Braves on a roll. I also believe that getting Smoltz back with give this team the jolt that they need.
By Shaun
April 4, 2008 10:12 AM | <