AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > May > 04 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USBraves, Glav going for a sweep
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Since there’s nothing else going on today on the Atlanta sports scene, we should have a huge audience in the ballpark today, as well as on TV and here on the blog, right?
What’s that? Potentially the biggest upset in the history of the NBA? At 1 o’clock? Oh.
Maybe that’s why Yunel Escobar was just scratched from the lineup. Maybe he’s a huge Celtics fan.
Actually, he’s sick. Has a cold or flu symptoms.
Anyway, plenty of folks tuning into the Hawks-Celtics Game 7 who’d otherwise never think of watching an NBA game. But there are still plenty of paying customers filing into Turner Field as I sit here typing, even if some are cussing (at least I was) about the repaving they’re doing on the Downtown Connector right now, in the hours before a game.
Hey, guess they’ve got to do it sometime, and Sunday noon is better than tomorrow morning. But man, can’t they get that stuff done overnight?
Anyway, hey, chances are you’re having a better morning than Joe Simpson. He had an appendectomy this morning at about 5 a.m. According to his broadcaster partner, he’s doing fine and plans to be back in the booth on Tuesday.
He’s a tough Sooner, I guess. Good luck, Joe. You apparently are determined to return to action a little quicker than Danys Baez did after his appendectomy a couple or three years ago, whenever that was (the Baez era didn’t exactly leave a big impression with me, obviously).
Now, to today’s series finale as the Braves go for a sweep to get themselves to .500. It’s perhaps the best chance yet for Tom Glavine to get win No. 304, which would also be the first win of his second stint with the Braves.
He’s 0-1 with a 2.60 ERA, and he’s facing Bronson Arroyo, who comes in 1-3 with a 6.97 ERA. Glavine has made four starts for the Braves, and the only one that wasn’t good was his April 13 start at D.C. when he gave up three hits, two runs and pulled a hammy before recording an out.
In his other three starts, he’s given up one earned run in five innings vs. Pittsburgh, no earned runs (and three hits) in 6-1/3 innings at Colorado, and two earned runs in six innings at D.C. last Tuesday, in the 6-3 loss when the bullpen gave up four runs in the seventh inning.
Glavine needs four strikeouts to pass Bob Feller (2,581) for 25th on the all-time list, and six strikeouts to pass Braves legend Warren Spahn (2,583) for 24th.
Speaking of starters…. As a group they haven’t exactly been durable (understatement), but Braves starters have usually been quite good when they’re out on the mound.
Hence the league-leading 3.13 ERA for Atlanta starters, which is significantly better than the No. 2-rated Cardinals starters (3.51). Next are the starters from the Padres (3.77), Cubs (3.82) and Diamondbacks (3.95).
Problem is, Braves starters have worked just 158-1/3 innings, the lowest total in the league. That’s exactly what the Braves hoped to avoid when they added Glavine last winter to a rotation that already had Tim Hudson and John Smoltz.
They talked over and over about having those three combine for 600 innings if things went as planned.
Things haven’t gone as planned, which you’ve probably noticed.
Still, the Braves have managed to juggle their rotation, with a couple of helpful off days that came at perfect times, and avoid having to dip down and bring up starters who were overmatched.
Jo-Jo Reyes surprised me last night. In his previous callups he’s ususually pitched two or three good innings before getting rattled and knocked around in one bad inning that’s undermined his outings. But last night, solid stuff from the kid lefty.
I don’t think the Braves are guilty of exaggerating his stuff to us in the past. I do believe he has the physical stuff, the repertoire, to become a solid No. 3 or No. 2 starter. But the mentality, the maturity, has been the thing that’s held him back.
So last night was a big step in that regard. He didn’t drop his approach or get out of his gameplan. He stayed with it, trusted his stuff, and went at hitters.
If the Braves hope to pick up the slack caused by Smoltz’s injury absence and imminent move to the bullpen upon return from the DL, then they’re going to need more performances like that one from the likes of Reyes (they’re already getting them from fellow rookie Jair Jurrjens, who is even better than expected after his fine spring performance at Dark Star).
I think the Braves are kicking the tires and poking around talking to teams about available starters and relievers, but they don’t want to just make a move and bring in mediocrity. If they add a starter, they want it to be a good one, and such a move might take at least a few more weeks.
By the way, it went unnoticed because the Braves don’t usually announce minor-league contracts, but hey signed reliever Scott Williamson a few weeks ago. He’s had a 13.50 ERA in four appearances for Richmond, which is, coincidentally, the same ERA he had in two games for the Giants this spring before they dropped him.
It’s been a while since the former Cincinnati closer was an effective big league reliever. Probably since 2004, when he had a 1.26 ERA in 28 appearances for Boston (and are we getting a bit tired of the otherwise solid ESPN Baseball Tonight host calling the Sox “The Nation” EVERY … SINGLE … TIME … that he refers to them? Well, I am).
Since then Williamson’s had unimpressive stints (5-plus ERAs) with the Cubs and Padres, and last season he had a 4.40 ERA in 16 appearances for Baltimore.
I just typed three paragraphs about Scott Williamson. What is wrong with me?
Diaz just a tad aggressive: Matt Diaz has replaced Jeff Francoeur as the most overly aggressive hacker on the team, at least statistically. Diaz has taken a league-low 39.5 percent of pitches this season.
And in the swing-at-first-pitch stat, where we found Jeff Francoeur at or near the top of the league for three years running at about 50 percent, we now have Diaz at 45.2 percent, third-highest in the league. Frenchy’s not in the top five.
Diaz is out of the lineup again today against a right-hander, with Gregor Blanco handling left-field duties.
So much for the notion of Cox going with the hot hand. Neither of them are hot now. Blanco has had a bit of a rookie reality check of late, going 1-for-15 in his past five games, after going 11-for-20 in his previous six.
As for Diaz, he’s 2-for-12 in his past six games, and has started only once in the Braves’ past six games. He’s still batting .289, because of his .447 average (17-for-38) against lefties.
Against righties, Diaz has hit .173 (9-for-52).
Etc: The Braves are 10-4 with a league-leading 2.70 ERA at home, and 4-11 with a 4.23 ERA (sixth in the NL) on the road. They are hitting .309 (second in the NL) at home and .252 (sixth in the NL) on the road…. Jorge Campillo’s .106 opponents’ average ranks second among NL relievers, behind Billy Wagner (.075)… Mark Kotsay is 17-for-49 (.347) with six RBIs and a .385 OBP in his past 13 games.
”OLD DOGS, CHILDREN AND WATERMELON WINE” by Tom T. Hall
How old do you think I am? he said.
I said, well, I didn’t know.
He said, I turned 65 about 11 months ago.
I was sittin in Miami pourin’ blended whiskey down
When this old gray black gentleman was cleanin’ up the lounge
There wasn’t anyone around ‘cept this old man and me
The guy who ran the bar was watchin’ Ironsides on tv
Uninvited, he sat down and opened up his mind
On old dogs and children and watermelon wine
Ever had a drink of watermelon wine? he asked
He told me all about it, though I didnt answer back
Ain’t but three things in this world that’s worth a solitary dime,
But old dogs and children and watermelon wine.
He said, women think about they-selves, when menfolk ain’t around.
And friends are hard to find when they discover that you’re down.
He said, I tried it all when I was young and in my natural prime;
Now its old dogs and children and watermelon wine.
Old dogs care about you even when you make mistakes;
God bless little children while they’re still too young to hate.
When he moved away I found my pen and copied down that line
‘bout old dogs and children and watermelon wine.
I had to catch a plane up to Atlanta that next day
As I left for my room I saw him pickin’ up my change
That night I dreamed in peaceful sleep of shady summertime
Of old dogs and children and watermelon wine.
Comments
By Robert
May 4, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
What happened to Escobar. Is he ok?
By JimD
May 4, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this
First?
Hey DOB, starting out with Ol’ Tom T. What a good one!
So what’s up with Joe Simpson’s absence today on SportsSouth? I missed the pregame.
By Matt in Athens
May 4, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
What’s more painful: emergency appendectomy or listening to Ron Gant for nine innings (as much as I love Ronnie as a player, he’s brutal behind the mic)
Get well soon, Joe.
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
Some interesting stuff.
About braves plate discipline. Im not sure how bad Terry Pendleton has been. Braves are the team that has stroke out the least (157), 20 less Ks than the next team (mets).Only have 1 player (Diaz 26th) in the top 50 in the strike out department.
On the other hand, Braves dont have a player in the top 25 and only 1 (yunel-28th) in the top 40 in the walks department.
That is kind of strange, Braves are not fanning a lot, but we are not taking the walk either. This leads me to think Pendleton is doing a good job, cause braves are waiting for a good pitch to hit, and they are making contact, lots of it.
Some other interesting facts.
Arizona (best record in the majors) have 3 players in the top 11 in strike outs (Reynolds, Young, Upton). The first 2 have more Ks than AJ, and you can add Howard to the group as the top 3 and AJ being 4th.
Arizona only has 1 player in the top 40 in walks in NL.
Thoughts???
Thanks.
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
Looks like Joe Torre is making the kids play well, I think thats the best team in the west. Or at least as good as Arizona, we will see.
BTW, into the game already.
Leadoff hit by KJ., just great to see that.
Then a great bunt by Kotsay, he looks more focused, although he almost misread a flyball in the first.
By McFann
May 4, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
Haha!! Votto never had a chance to steal that base!!
First?
By Yars
May 4, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
DOB…we thank you for the news on Joe. I was wondering why Ron Gant was in the booth with Boog.
By ricflair
May 4, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
Robert and Jim did you guys read the blog? It’s says in it what happened to both of them.
By Interested Observer
May 4, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Anybody still want Ryan Freel as our center fielder??
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008))
May 4, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Ryan Freel has got to be the toughest and dumbest ball player on the Reds roster.
I love his hustle, he just does not play smart.
By Stuart
May 4, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Productive out by Prado. Good to see a sac RBI.
By JimD
May 4, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
Ah, saw in the blog now. I “sped read” and missed it the first time.
Best wishes and prayers for Joe!
Looks like the Hot Dog (Freel) got his mustard on the liner.
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
Great great throw by McCann…..gun shot.
Braves playing better lately, is our course gone?
Also very good AB by Prado getting the sac fly.
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
KJ with his 2nd hit so far, a double in the RF corner…… theres the difference…. he is on, braves score lots of runs.
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Kotsay is just getting better and better, over the .280 mark, what about him as leadoff? Lots of contact.
By Greg in TN
May 4, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Afternoon denizens…
Bring your broom day to the ballpark, albeit against a very good pitcher not pitching well so far this year in Bronson Arroyo.
BMac has struggled against Reds baserunners, but he certainly looked good in gunning down Joey Votto in the second. It looked to me that he was either a little early or a little late in his release point on his throws last night, but a picture perfect throw today even if it wasn’t Freel or Phillips attempting to run.
There’s no doubt these guys like to play the games scheduled to be at 755 Hank Aaron Drive so far this year. After last night’s win, the team is six games over .500 at home which is a marked contrast to how they’ve played at home in years’ past. Of course the teams in the past two years didn’t play all that hot at times away from home either, and the 2008 edition is a woeful 4-11 away from the friendly southern confines, but I like the fact we’re playing well at home the first month into the season.
And since this is a new fresh blog from the Notorious one, a few more thoughts while I’m at it…
CF seems to be an adventure today, Kotsay and Freel both are having problems tracking the ball off the bat, however Freel’s miscue led to our first run of the day.
Looks like Cincinnati pitching is the elixir the offense has been waiting for now that Glavine has driven in a run and KJ follows with a double.
Get some rest Joe Simpson, Braves Nation hopes you are on the mend and will be back in the booth on Tuesday.
By Interested Observer
May 4, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
The Braves must think that Carroll is still covering the game! Just teasing, DOB.
By Pete H.
May 4, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
Did Mac really score all the way from second on a DOUBLE? They must be working on his running.
As for Glavine’s single, you cannot stop the Braves’ slugging pitching staff, you can only hope to contain them. Good time for our staff’s second hit! At this rate, they might end up in double digits by September.
By David O'Brien
May 4, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
This just in: Chipper is really, really good.
Three-run BOMB, and it was a towering thing of beauty.
By Stuart
May 4, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
DOB,
How is the sickness issue on the team? Obviously the bug has bitten Yunnel, but is everyone else doing better?
I wonder that because I had that upper respitory infection thing that sounds similar to what Huddy and Bennett had. It took me three weeks to get over it. Do you think that took more of a toll on the team that was let on?
By richbrave
May 4, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
DOWN ON THE FARM
Since going 0-18 to start the season SCOTT THORMAN is now 21-96 and .219, but 6 for his last 11.
By Greg in TN
May 4, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
The Offensive Assassin chases Arroyo with a three-run bomb.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008))
May 4, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
SWEEP ! SWEEP ! SWEEP ! SWEEP ! SWEEP !
Chipper just put the icing on it. 7-0 Braves.
By Tomahawkin' Again (Like it's 1995)
May 4, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
TD Atlanta! 7-0.
By Pete H.
May 4, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
This Jones kid seems to be pretty good. I think we should keep him. If he ain’t player of the month, there is no justice.
By David O'Brien
May 4, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
That was like watching batting practice.
My, has anyone slipped as quickly as Bronson Arroyo? (No, Giles’ decline wasn’t quite that rapid).
By fastasballs
May 4, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Wow what a start to the game. It appears most everyone has went to the plate with an approach today. A welcome change indeed.
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
Well gang, back to .500, up 7-0 in the 2nd.
Braves look much more confident and relaxed.
CHIPPER IS A HITTING MACHINE!!!!!!
COULD THIS GUY HIT .400 THE HOLE SEASON???
By GTI in Chicago
May 4, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
Chipper Jones Says: Hello, 3-2 Pitch. Goodbye Baseball. 3-run Dinger.
By Yars
May 4, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
Chipper just sealed the win for Glavine! Good to see KJ hitting the ball well today. I am now starting to wonder how long Chipper can keep his average above .400
By David O'Brien
May 4, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
Hey, what happened? Why didn’t Ryan Freel dive for that fly ball to end the inning? He dives for everything else.
By BravesFanChris23
May 4, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
7-0 in 2nd inning and going into Reds’ bullpen this early, good sign for us. Glavine helped out his own cause too. Get well soon Joe. To be honest, before I found out it was Ron Gant calling game with Boog, I thought it was David Justice lol.
By Pete H.
May 4, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this
Too bad that Frenchy didn’t hit one out this inning. It would have been fun to see if McCann could have scored all the way from first.
By BravesFanChris23
May 4, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this
If McCann keeps on at this rate, he’ll steal more bases than Jose Reyes -_-
By Pete H.
May 4, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this
Paul cough, cough Bako. Oy, they better test him and Henry Blanco for steroids. I know for a fact that neither of them can hit, and suddenly they both look like Babe Ruth.
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
Feels like if every run glavine has given up this year is via HR.
Braves should intentionally walk any exbrave that bats against us, they just kill us.
By McFann
May 4, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
Great inning!! Boy is Chipper good! Great choice for Player of the Month…oh wait, never mind.
My best to Joe! (WE MISS YOU!!)
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
Blanco keeps looking very good, it will be hard to keep that guy on the bench, great weapon.
By GTI in Chicago
May 4, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
Seriously. Does anyone here NOT believe that Chipper Jones is capable of hitting .400 all year long?
I admit, part of me feels like, if Tony Gwynn couldn’t do it (What did he finish at that one year, .397?) then no one will, especially, not a guy who still has to behave like a power hitter.
BUT, I also truely believe that Chipper is seriously motivated to do and keep doing exactly what he’s been doing so far. He looks like a man on a mission to me.
Keep it up, Chipper. GO BRAVES!
ooo. he’s up again… kick it chipper.
By David O'Brien
May 4, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
Overlord, you’re right about Kotsay — he’s doing what Braves thought he could do IF he stayed healthy. And so far …
By nolie
May 4, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
This Jones kid seems to be pretty good. I think we should keep him. If he ain’t player of the month, there is no justice.PeteH
Thats over. Utley won it over Chipper
By David O'Brien
May 4, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
Well, this isn’t exactly “protecting the lead,” is it? Glavine’s usually solid in the damage control dept., but they’re hitting him hard this inning.
By Epinephrine
May 4, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this
Hope Glav gets through the 5th. Fitting he’d get the win on pitching like this after not getting it in his previous performances.
By Cherokee
May 4, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
Glavine looks like crap. Given up 4 already. This could end up poorly yet
By Joe Fan
May 4, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
Win sealed huh?
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
On Chipper hitting .400:
Last guy to do it, Mickey Mantle, .405 in 1941.
Most recently near .400:
Tony Gwynn .393 in 1994.
George Brett .389 in 1980.
Ted Williams .388 in 1957.
Rod Carew .388 in 1977.
Joe Dimaggio .381 in 1939.
Larry Walker .379 in 1999.
Some very company there, make your own conclusions.
By GTI in Chicago
May 4, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
Mmmmm… Careful, Tommy. Let’s keep the door closed, here.
Annnnd now it’s 8 to 5. Think Tommy might have gotten a little too relaxed.
btw, the news from Boston isn’t so good right now.
By David O'Brien
May 4, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
Any of you hear Skip’s line last night? “The bases are loaded, and I bet Dusty wishes he was, too.”
Gotta love him.
By Yars
May 4, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
If Chipper can stay healthy, meaning avoiding the DL the entire season, he could very well keep his average in the .370-.380 range throughout the season. Hell, add 38+ HR & 100+ RBI, he may be looking at his 2nd NL MVP award. I know, I know, it’s still too early to speculate anything. The key for Chipper is avoiding the DL, & leading the Braves to the playoffs.
By McFann
May 4, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
Pete H.—
I agree. It would have been nice if McCann could’ve scored. Looks like Glavine could use a few more runs.
Now a hit to the pitcher! DUDE!
Hey, does a player’s OBP go up when they reach on an error?
By DAP
May 4, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
has anyone else noticed how chummy brandon phillips is with some of the braves players? he seem like a really nice guy…hes an atlanta guy, right?
glavine needs to tighten up the screws a little bit here…..
By Baseballstats
May 4, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
Mickey Mantle didn’t even play in the majors in 1941 and he never hit .400. Ted Williams hit .406 in 1941 which was the last to do it.
By Cherokee
May 4, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
I was not a fan of getting Glavine last winter. He needs to get taken out now before he blows the entire lead. C’mon Bobby get him out.
By Baseballstats
May 4, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
Mickey Mantle didn’t even play in the majors in 1941 and he never hit .400. Ted Williams hit .406 in 1941 which was the last to do it.
By 22oz
May 4, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
I think Glavine really want us to get a one run win.
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this
Seriously. Does anyone here NOT believe that Chipper Jones is capable of hitting .400 all year long?
I admit, part of me feels like, if Tony Gwynn couldn’t do it (What did he finish at that one year, .397?) then no one will, especially, not a guy who still has to behave like a power hitter. GTI in Chicago.
If you pay some attention Gwynn hit .394 in 1994. He was 34 YO then. About Chippers age right now. I would say that hitting skills ate that age are the best a hitter will ever be. Maybe could hit with eyes closed (no really mean that).
You comment makes me think you believe Chipper is not at the same level as Gwynn, and that is not true, Chipper right now is seeing the ball like if it is in super slow motion.
Chipper is not hitting as if he needs to hit a HR to help the team. Therefore he is not hitting as a pure power guy.
He will get less balls to hit now that TEX looks better at the plate, that means he could get even more selective.
Im not saying he will hit .400, but he is doing a darn good job until now. And I wouldnt be surprised.
I have seen him all his career, and he has never looked this good. Its just like he was in AAA, when they then said, the kid just couldnt be put away.
By DAP
May 4, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
this is glavine worst start of the season, and he still might get his first win from it. i hope….welp, never mind. bobby yanks him, as he should. sorry glav, youll have to get it next time.
By radoncbravesfan
May 4, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Well, Glavine could not get through the 5th with the lead, too bad!! DOB, I also had a good chuckle at that line last night. Classic Skip.
By Epinephrine
May 4, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Sucks for Glav. Yikes. He’ll be furious.
By Baseballstats
May 4, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Overlord, Mickey Mantle didn’t even play in the majors in 1941 and he never hit .400. Ted Williams hit .406 in 1941 which was the last to do it.
By DanTucker
May 4, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Wake up Grandpa Cox. Glavine was done about 45 minutes ago. If the Braves lose this one, it’s on Bobby’s head. It’s time for him to GO!
By TJ
May 4, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
has anyone else noticed how chummy brandon phillips is with some of the braves players?
I have noticed that, DAP. I don’t really like it… just too much glad-handing among competitors. But it’s definitely there.
btw, Chipper (before today) has hit exactly .400 in his last 51 games, going back to Sept. 1 last year. Awfully hard to maintain that for a full season, when a 1 for 3 drops your average and a 2 for 5 doesn’t help.
By eric the elder
May 4, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
Gotta give Bobby credit for pulling Glav, even though he was just one out short of qualifying for a win.
Cox has been known to sacrifice the team for loyalty to a player, but not this time.
By Moby Grape
May 4, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
On Chipper hitting .400:
Last guy to do it, Mickey Mantle, .405 in 1941.Overlord
Mickey Mantle in 1941, huh? Thats interesting. Revisionist history I suppose? and no I don’t think Chipper will be next.
By geauxbraves2000
May 4, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
That’s irony for ya, the offense finally gets Tommy some runs, and he can’t even get the win.
The offense better get it in gear, 8 runs might not be enough.
Geaux Braves!!
By McFann
May 4, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
22oz—
I was under that impression, too. Ha! No win for him today!
By David O'Brien
May 4, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this
That’s 16 for 16 inherited runners stranded by Ring, tied for the league lead.
By nolie
May 4, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
Mickey Mantle didn’t even play in the majors in 1941 and he never hit .400. Ted Williams hit .406 in 1941 which was the last to do it.Stats
LOL. That woulda been some awesome hitting for a ten year old
By Stephen
May 4, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
Glavine is washed up.
By keylargo
May 4, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
Overlord
I didn’t know Mickey ever hit .400. It was quite an accomplishment since he was 10 in 1941. I noticed the Reds have a patch on their uniforms for Joe Nuxhall who I thought was the youngest player ever in the majors at 15. 8) (You must have been out late last night.)
By GTI in Chicago
May 4, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
Overlord, Thanks for digging up those stats for the near misses at .400 in the last 60 years. (I know your listing for 1941 was just a typo.)
I’m not trying to make any predictions. I’m well aware of the history of the record, of how long the season is, of how badly the media can chew up a player in the hunt, of how much sheer mental fortitude is required for a MLB player just to hit .300, not to mention the power-hitting requirements for a player in Chipper’s position in the lineup.
But, I’m saying I firmly believe that Chip has it in him. We know it’s not a fluke for his average to be high. That’s been well documented here on the blog. We know he has the physical talent. I think it’s safe to say he has the mental fortitude and determination. I don’t think that anyone would dissagree that having Tex hitting behind him is a boon to his fortunes.
I say, if it can be done, Chipper’s a guy who can do it, and, if he can stay healthy, this is the year for it to happen.
Go get ‘em, Chip. and GO BRAVES
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
Chipper is on pace of playing exactly 150 games this year. He is also on pace to hit 251 hits. That would be the 6th highest ever. That does not sounds like a power type hitter to me.
By justdoit
May 4, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this
thank you kelly
By justdoit
May 4, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this
thats nice, loaded for chipper
By LuisGuillermo
May 4, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
DOB: This game is yet another good display of the Braves’ offense. They’ve struggled in some games, too. But how have the Braves fared against the opposition’s best starters (their aces)?
C’mon Chip, drive ‘em all!!!
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
OK OK, I got that one wrong,my fault, it was Ted Williams, just a confusion. You did get the point.
By radoncbravesfan
May 4, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
Left handed, right handed, Hoss is sizzlin !!
By Ryan
May 4, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
I may be reading too much into it but I think Boog gave the blog a subtle plug by saying U Know Who was on deck and he comes through with 2 RBI’s as I type this.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008))
May 4, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
Bases loaded and nobody out. You’re the opposing manager, Chipper is up and you hear Ozzie screaming: ALL ABOARD !!!!!
That has got to suck.
Then Chipper delivers a two run base knock. Yea, it sucks to be Dusty Baker right now.
By GTI in Chicago
May 4, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
Overlord I just caught up to your 3:15 reply to my first post…
I see how you might have misunderstood my comment about Gwynn compared to Chipper. I actually did not mean it to be an unfavorable comparison. I think Chip IS swinging the bat that well. I was just giving some props to Gwynn, who I estimate to be the best hitter in the past couple of generations.
In a way, I think pursuing .400 was a little easier for Gwynn because much of the time he was just trying to guide the ball over the infielder’s heads for a single. He was never the power hitter that Chip is and I think being a power hitter costs a lot of guys points on their average. It’s just a natural trade off.
But no, I compare Gwynn and Chip very favorably right now.
Very astute of you to see that Gwynn was 34 in 94 same as Chip is now. I didn’t realize that.
No, I think you and I agree about this.
And just as I was typing this, Chip’s done it again and driven in a few more RBI.
The man’s amazing.
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
You guys sound like romans, you want to crucify me also because of a mistake?
Give it a break!!!!
By J.D.
May 4, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
DOB i did catch that line last night, certainly had me laughing…you gotta love skip, and by the way how bout that chipper guy if hes not an all star this year there should be a congressional insight into it
By LuisGuillermo
May 4, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
I’m not watching the game on TV, I’m just following it on GameCast. But, what happened there? McCann singled to ”deep right” and only one run scored! What happened with Chipper Jones?
By geauxbraves2000
May 4, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
An absolutely horrible AB for Jeff.
Geaux Braves!!
By MEB
May 4, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
Interesting… Chipper has right and left handed bats. Must be the way the label is printed on the barrel.
Some ugly hacks by Frenchy with bases loaded.
GO BRAVES!!!
By AMG
May 4, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
Not a good day for the pitchers…
By DAP
May 4, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
overlord Chipper is on pace of playing exactly 150 games this year. He is also on pace to hit 251 hits. That would be the 6th highest ever. That does not sounds like a power type hitter to me.
he is also on pace for 45 homers, and over 150 RBIs and a 1.177 OPS. that doesnt sound like a power hitter at all, hunh?
did you miss your sunday nap?
By McFann
May 4, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
.171!! The elevator rises!
In an article on braves.com today, McCann said, [H]opefully I can start carrying my weight with runners in scoring position.”
So when he reaches .235 with RISP, I will stop posting the number every time it changes. It’s like when Smoltz was after 3000 K’s; after he reached that milestone, they stopped flashing the number across the screen.
By Greg in TN
May 4, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this
I guess the hard luck tag this year is Glavine’s to wear. He pitches really well and gets a no decision or the loss in the case of his start against the Nats and little run support, or the offense gives him some breathing room and he can’t put it together. I really liked seeing Royce Ring come in and get the final out of the fifth against Adam Dunn.
Really really nice pinch-hit single by Bryan Pena and now the Offensive Assassin strikes again with a two-run single.
Could Chipper hit .400 or better over the course of the season? It’s difficult to pull that off, just ask Brett and Gwynn. I think Chipper could do it, I think Ichiro is capable even if he’s cooled off a little in the past few years and I think Matt Holliday could do it. It’s just awfully tough, especially in the waning days of the season to keep that kind of pace up.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008))
May 4, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
Now this is what drives me crazy about Bobby Cox. He has a six run lead and pulls Royce Ring after one pitch, never mind the fact that Ring has just five innings of work all season.
Cox is going to wear out the rest of his bullpen and keep using Ring as a one out specialist irregardless of the score.
FOR STUPID ! Cox is old and set in his ways. The man simply cannot adjust his thinking to match the scoreboard.
By DAP
May 4, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
Very astute of you to see that Gwynn was 34 in 94 same as Chip is now. I didn’t realize that.
whats with you guys today? chipper is 36.
By keylargo
May 4, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
How the times have changed.
Chipper goes 2 for 5 and his average goes down.
AJ goes 1 for 5 and his average goes up.
By ijonathan
May 4, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
Chipper just officially had a “Frenchy” at bat. Had his mind made up to swing at the firs pitch before he saw it, swung out of his shoes at one pitch, and with a runner on 3B and less than 2 out, made an unproductive out.
By David O'Brien
May 4, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
That’s FIVE doubles in two days for Kelly Johnson.
By GTI in Chicago
May 4, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
whats with you guys today? chipper is 36. DAP
Ahhh. Details. I defend myself this way: If you consider all the time Chip’s had to miss the last few seasons on the DL and whatnot, and then subtract that time from his age, then it’s like he’s only 34 in “on the field” years.
No? Ok, ok. But wouldn’t it be nice if it did work like that.
But these details don’t matter. I still think he’s capable of hitting .400.
By Bobby's Cox
May 4, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
couple of things.
It’s nice to see KJ swinging the bat. It’s amazing how well this team does when the #1 spot gets on base.
Couple of bunts in the first innings lately and a hit and run too. Is BC reading our posts or what? Nice to see the offense being more active on the bases and moving runners up.
Prado needs to cut down on his errors. He’s booting 1 per game. He looks like he’s trying to do too much, like he’s got something to prove.
That’s it! Go braves!
By McFann
May 4, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
HAPPY 40th TO EDDIE PEREZ!!
Nice birthday present, eh? Much better than the one they gave me!
; )
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008))
May 4, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
13-7 and Cox is into his fourth pitcher. Keep burning that bullpen, Bobby. It will come back to bite this team in the butt later on in the season.
By ijonathan
May 4, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
I guess Ohman is this year’s version of Ron Mahay…meaning old man Cox will pitch him 13 days in a row, especially in blow-outs. Then, magically, the one day you need a lefty for a situational matchup in a close game, he isn’t available or effective.
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
DAP, I meant about the same age, 35 YO, whatever…… you are more astute than your last comment.
But you are right, chipper is hitting for tons of power, I didnt explain myself well enough. I meant to say, he is not looking like the prototype power guy…. HR or sit down.
And Ill get my sunday nap as soon as the tylenol pills I took, do their job, after all the jabs and upppercuts i have been hit by.
By Jeff321
May 4, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
Looks like Yunel had a miraculous recovery.. Oh wait, didn’t that dummy Prado hurt his thumb or something sliding in to first base? Just tell me this, when is Omar Infante coming off the dl?
By Bobby's Cox
May 4, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
In a way, I think pursuing .400 was a little easier for Gwynn because much of the time he was just trying to guide the ball over the infielder’s heads for a single.
I think chipper does aim the ball time to time. He gets those Tony Gwynn hits every now and then and sometimes you see him guide the ball on the ground through the infield.
I’d compare Chipper’s season thus far to John Olerud’s 1993 season. Olerud flirting with .400 all year and hit for lots of power (24 HR, 54 doubles, 107 RBI, 114 BB).
It’s still early, but Chipper looks damn good and comfortable.
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
If you pay some attention Gwynn hit .394 in 1994. He was 34 YO then. ABOUT Chippers age right now. Overlord
Read carefully before firing your bullets at me.
By David O'Brien
May 4, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
Wish I could tell you guys about the politically incorrect gifts they gave Eddie for his birthday, along with the Happy 50th (yes, 50th) birthday card they all signed.
They closed the clubhouse for a few minutes after BP to have a little presentation for him. Very funny stuff. He loved it.
By Bobby's Cox
May 4, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
couple more things.
McCann is playing great ball, both behind the plate and at the plate. Blanco still looks like a rookie at times, but he’s got some serious talent. Hopefully he doesn’t fade.
It’s amazing how amazing this offense looks at times. Hopefully chipper is rubbing off on the rest of the team and the offense doesn’t fade again after these blowout wins. Now’s the time for it to step up with the injuries to the pitching staff.
By brent a.
May 4, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
Okay, it looks like Kelly’s entering into another one of his hot streaks.
Let’s hope it lasts at least 30 days, and the Braves ride it to about a 20-10 record over that stretch.
The Hawks are through, so I can put more of my focus on my two first loves: The Braves and The Lakers.
Yes, that traffic was ridiculous. I go home from church that way, and it was really annoying, and surprising. I don’t see how people deal with that nonsense on a daily basis.
Good for the Braves to get another week-end sweep. The way the Dodgers have played since they left town is making that week-end sweep look even more impressive.
Of course, unlike Bobby Cox last year, Joe Torre hasn’t decided to stubbornly keep Andruw Jones in the middle of the order (or even in the line-up at all) despite his career-worst struggles.
Anyway, good week-end in Atlanta. Yes, the Hawks got killed today, and some will try to say that this diminishes what they accomplished in this series; but I don’t agree. I found no rationalization for picking the Hawks to win more than a single, fluke game in this series; yet, they turned their home cour into their fortress. They lost because they were young, inexperienced, and had no idea how to win on the road.
Whereas, the Celtics were older, experienced, more talented, and yet, they could not win on the road either.
Hopefully, for the Hawks’ sake, they will appreciate the value of home court enough, that they will go out and try to scrape together 50 wins next season, and get themselves home court advantage in the first round.
By mr baseball
May 4, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this
Didn’t get a lot of support (any?) when I defended Cox’s use of KJ as the leadoff the other day. Where are all the critics today? Johnson may not be the ideal leadoff hitter, but he is the best option the Braves have. Hitting Escober & Kotsay 1-2 and Johnson 7 might not be that bad a situation, but as long as KJ is producing, he should stay at the top of the lineup, maybe even against lefties.
For all the geniuses advocating the dismissal of the pitching coach because of the arm injuries: please check out the league ERA standings for starting pitchers. Anyone who thinks McDowell is responsible for the various arm ailments is thoroughly worthy of our favorite insult here:
YOUR AND IDIOT.
Speaking of YAI, having Coach second guess Cox’s moves is kind of like Jeff Daniels’ character engaging Jim Carey’s character in “Dumb and Dumber” in a philosophical debate.
Let’s see if I can explain this simply enough for even Coach to understand. The Braves had 2 days off earlier this week and Hudson pitched a complete game the other night. That’s 3 days this week the bullpen hasn’t thrown a pitch. No one’s arm is falling off.
Ring is primarily a lefty specialist and has done his job very well this season in those situations. He was the second batter due up in the bottom of the inning. Cox pinch hit for him, Pena got a single and the Braves scored 3 runs. Exactly what he should have done in that situation.
There are lots of opportunities to criticize how Cox manages a game. Today has not been one of them. Unfortunately, Coach (It’s Hard To Be Wrong All The Time But I Come Pretty Close) hasn’t quite figured that out yet.
By BravesRule
May 4, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
Looks like Yunel had a miraculous recovery.. Oh wait, didn’t that dummy Prado hurt his thumb or something sliding in to first base? Just tell me this, when is Omar Infante coming off the dl?Jeff321
what? are you and imbecile? You have a problem with the way that Prado has produced off the bench? Sheeeesh!
By Overlord
May 4, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
If you pay some attention Gwynn hit .394 in 1994. He was 34 YO then. ABOUT Chippers age right now. Overlord
Read carefully before firing your bullets at me, DAP.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008))
May 4, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
Dusty Baker has used five pitchers today because his bullpen stinks.
Bobby Cox has used five pitchers because he is Bobby Cox.
By Bobby's Cox
May 4, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Didn’t get a lot of support (any?) when I defended Cox’s use of KJ as the leadoff the other day. mr. baseball
see how good the lineup is when the leadoff guy gets on? It was our point that KJ needs to do so more consistently. If the trend continues, he’ll there’s be another 8-10 game stretch where KJ goes 0-4 or 1-4 and the lineup will suffer. Let’s hope that’s not true mr. baseball.
By ijonathan
May 4, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
What, Bobby’s planning to use Ohman, Boyer and Acosta every game?
By GTI in Chicago
May 4, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox I agree with your assessment of Chipper’s Get It Over, or Squeak It Thru the Infield hits. It seems like the last few years he’s been willing to do that more and more, especially with no one on base. It’s like he understands that baserunners are a valuable tool to getting a rally started. (I wish more of them could grasp and do that kind of thing.)
It’s kind of amazing how he can also sit back a look for a particular pitch and then when it comes he can blow it into the outfield bleachers. He’s adept a both approaches, and I think it’s a great thing.
I’m going to dissagree with your comparision to Olerud in ‘93 - not because it’s a bad comparison, but really more just for the sake of conversation. Olerud was a great hitter, but that was still kind of a fluky year for him. The only other year he put up similar numbers - at least ones that included that super-high average - was in ‘98 when he was with the Mets. A lot of the reason I feel like Chipper could do this is because, in a lot of ways, this is kind of almost normal for him.
The comparison I had in my mind was Larry Walker and the year he had in ‘99, when he had reached a certain age, had amassed a certain level of experience and really put everything together at the same time, while still very much holding onto his power-hitter resume. I know he did all that while playing half his games in Colorado, but in my memory (which could be weak on this point) he had really strong home and away splits that year (and most years, even - again, if I remember right.)
Then, even though Walker finally faded in the 2nd half that season, he still performed at a comparable level in the years afterwards.
By Philliesuk
May 4, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
Could Chipper hit .400 this year? Sure. Will he? Doubt it. All it takes is one really bad slump in August to kill it. I would love to see it, but I think realistically he can hit in the high .300s this year and pick up 40 HR/120 RBI. Those would be MVP-caliber numbers, but I’m sure the voters will go ahead and give it to some Phillies/Mets player.
Interesting to see the impact of KJ getting on base. His OBP is critical for this offense.
By David O'Brien
May 4, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
PRADO has a SPRAINED LEFT THUMB from that head-first slide in the fifth inning.
By Greg in TN
May 4, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
Kotsay’s extra point sailed inside the right field upright making the Braves two-for-two on point after attempts.
Things getting a little chippy now after Chipper’s single as Burton sends a fastball behind Tex to put him on.
By eric the elder
May 4, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
A Ron Gantism: “There’s no reason to throw at a batter for no reason.”
Someone parse that for me.
By Jeff321
May 4, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
“what? are you and imbecile? You have a problem with the way that Prado has produced off the bench? Sheeeesh!”
Produced off the bench, eh? How about his production of errors? Did you happen to see the throwing error today? How about when he was playing first recently? Or when he filled in for Chipper at third? I think Prado needs to follow Pete Orr out the door.
By ijonathan
May 4, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this
I’m sure somewhere, right now, Joe Morgan is giving a painfully slow and repetitive 45-minute explanation, to nobody in particular, as to why it is better to run through first base rather than slide head first.
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
May 4, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
And Coach has posted 5 wrong opinions today because he couldn’t find the right one’ s to cut-and-paste online.
By Yars
May 4, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
KJ raised his average 25 points today. Not bad at all. I’m shocked that Tex didn’t record a hit today! Chipper finishing the day with a MLB leading .425 average!
By ijonathan
May 4, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
Jeff321 any comparison of Martin Prado to Pete Orr is idiotic.
By Pete H.
May 4, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
And Cincy ties the Pods with 20 losses, for most losses in the majors.
Not a pretty game, but it’s a W.
By GTI in Chicago
May 4, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this