Braves

By David-ATL14

May 10, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

Agree on all fronts DOB!

Kelly needs to drop to the #7 spot and Frenchy is overdue for a game or two away.

By UGA75

May 10, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

Most ball clubs have a couple of players that can carry a team when they are in a hot streak. Chipper has done all that is humanly possible, McCann has done it occassionally. But other than Frenchy 2 great games hitting, and Kotsay’s couple of games Chipper looks like he’s on a island. Someone has to step up, or the Braves will be lost before July 4 and looking to sell rather than buy.

By BravesFanInRockies

May 10, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

12th?

Excellent blog, DOB. Could have read my mind (or vice versa).

The past two years I’ve been almost a much a KJ booster as Shaun, but he just isn’t getting the job done at the top of the order.

I like Blanco-Yunel vs. righties and reverse the two vs. lefties — or Yunel-Kotsay vs. southpaws.

Or — dare we suggest it — a platoon? Yunel-Infante vs. lefties?

Oh the humanity.

By Bobby's Cox

May 10, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

David Friggin’ O’Brien

Excellent Blog.

Lets see if the denizens rip you a new one liked they’ve ripped me for saying pretty much the same thing since week 2 about KJ.

Folks, Kelly is 9-for-38 with five doubles in his past 10 games, and six of the hits and all the doubles came in those back-to-back games against Cincy May 3-4

Shaun’s gonna be p** cause he doesn’t think that when all the numbers come in few games it’s bad.

By brent a.

May 10, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

No secret. We need a guy who can get on base and wreak havoc at the top of the order. We also need Bobby to let that guy loose once he gets on base.

I know these guys don’t come cheap, but, they can be worth their weight in gold if you can get one.

By rupert

May 10, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

totally agree on kelly and frenchy,

not that it has anything to do with hitting leadoff, but if kelly gets that bunt down last night the braves win the game probably, little plays like that cost you a one run game…

By BravesFanInRockies

May 10, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

12th?

Excellent blog, DOB. Could have read my mind (or vice versa).

The past two years I’ve been almost a much a KJ booster as Shaun, but he just isn’t getting the job done at the top of the order.

I like Blanco-Yunel vs. righties and reverse the two vs. lefties — or Yunel-Kotsay vs. southpaws.

Or — dare we suggest it — a platoon? Yunel-Infante vs. lefties?

Oh the humanity.

By jimmac

May 10, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

I mentioned this earlier, but I’ll repeat for the new blog - great column by Tom Boswell at washingtonpost.com on Madddux, Glavine and Smoltz.

By macdwolfpack

May 10, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

DOB, I love Bobby Cox, but I am beginning to think like an old player that maybe he needs to recognize his end time has come. When a team performs this bad on the road and in 1 run losses then you have to start looking at leadership,especially when their situational hitting is abysmal as the Braves is. Atlanta must be leading the universe in double plays hit into. Might just be (as much as all of us hate to say it) for Bobby to either step down or start transferring some of the decision making to younger assistants. Of course I have to say I’m not really sold either on what Pendelton has done, so I’m not sure I’d transer anything to him. He has to bear a lot of the responsibilities for the Braves erratic hitting and run production over the last couple of years. 10 runs tonight, then 1-2 runs for 3-4 games against inferior talent,usually caused by terrible situation hitting. Maybe that is caused by fatigue,but with so much of it you have to start holding somebody in management accountable at some point for this inconsistancy.

Yes, I do agree with you on Johnson, I have never ever thought he was a leadoff hitter and I still don’t. I also think Franceour’s performance is down from last year as well and agree some rest might be due. If Franceour was hitting like Chipper I’d have him in every game, but he’s hitting more like THorman than Chipper.

By BravesFanInRockies

May 10, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Sorry about the double post. Stupid DSL hiccup.

Check out DOB’s story on the home page about Chuck “One Pair” James.

A question: Are professional athletes not allowed to frequent shopping malls while they’re on the road?

By RichmondBrave

May 10, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

My batting order tonight Escobar Kotsay Chipper McCan TEX Blanco(Rf) KJ Diaz But we all know BC will not make changes like that this early in the year when it could make a difference. We need something to light a fire on the road. All the missed opportunities and DP’s are going to keep us in 4th or even 5th place. We have no situational hitting. Where is the bunt with 1st and 2nd with not outs like Pitt did last night. We just swing away and hit into ANOTHER DP.

PLEASE change something!!!

By Bobby's Cox

May 10, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

[Tex} is drawing plenty of walks, got a high OBP throughout that period. But hey, let’s not kid ourselves. Braves (and Chipper) could really use a little power surge from the cleanup hitter. DOB

Shaun would argue that the walks are just as good as a hit, and a good OBP is excellent! Wrong. Not to undermine walks, but what you do with a pitch is more beneficial to your team than taking a 4 or 5 pitch walk. If teammates can see how you approach the pitcher it will help them adapt a similar approach for success. Tis why it was no joke that the offense exploded in prados starts in the leadoff spot….IMO.

DOB maybe in your next interview with Bobby you can ask him or give him hints about benching Frenchy & moving down KJ: “Have you thought about giving Frenchy a day off?” Followed by, “Don’t you think that would help him in the long run?” Or, “Have you considered moving KJ down in the order?” Followed by, “He’s hit good in the 7 spot before, do you think that would take pressure off him and he could duplicate his success there?”

Not to knock on the job you’re doing DOB, you do an excellent job for us.

By Yars

May 10, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

I think it’s obvious that Yunel can hit anywhere in the lineup. He’s the perfect candidate to hit leadoff if Bobby does decide to move KJ to the #7 or #8 hole, which he really needs to do starting tonight. Whatever happens, I just hope Bobby doesn’t start a platoon at 2B. We don’t need that. KJ’s overall numbers aren’t that bad. Move him down in the order & let’s see how he does. now playing: supermassive black hole by Muse.

By N8

May 10, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Nice blog DOB.

Precise and to the point, on all remarks.

Maybe Chase should be requesting that YOU be the next manager, rather than Gant.

All joking aside, you and I both know that Bobby will make those moves eventually, but he’ll do it when HE feels it is time to do it (maybe too late in the game), rather than when you or I (or even Gant in the booth), suggest.

Oh well. Sometimes feels good, to know you were one step ahead of a HOF manager at one point, huh?

By MLT

May 10, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

I agree. Jeff could use a day off every now and again. Yes, Cox, usually knows when to rest a guy but there have been exceptions. Andruw Jones comes to mind. Could it be that a contributing factor in Andruw’s dramatic decline over the last year or so was the fact he played day after day, year after year?

By Earl

May 10, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

You sound pretty angry today, DOB. I agree with you though, with the way he’s walking I think I’d switch Escobar with Johnson and start giving Francoeur a day off somewhere, or at least take him out early in a blowout.

Do you think if there’s another injury Charlie Morton will get the next chance? He’s getting on a roll at Richmond.

By Patrick

May 10, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Not only is Francoeur struggling but I honestly think he is 0 for the season with a runner at third and less than 2 out. Can you check on that?

By Bowie

May 10, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

DOB, While in the Clubhouse (Stay out of the food) why don’t you ask Bobby about moving Kelly out of lead-off and giving Frenchy a rest. Watch out for Bill Acree he can sometimes show his anger. You’ve got it DOB. Can’t get anything past you. Go Braves!

By Bobby's Cox

May 10, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

DOB sounds like a braves fan, even though he says he’s a paycheck fan.

By Supes

May 10, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

I know…the Braves have lacked the prototypical leadoff hitter since Raffy left for the Dodgers.

Should have been addressed then, it wasn’t and it hasn’t been since. It’s been leadoff by committee which is a little league way to go about it.

Step up Braves, make a trade for a true lead off guy, or promote Josh Anderson from AAA. From everything I’ve seen/read about the guy, he’s got the wheels and hitting game for that spot.

Either way, Braves solution isn’t on the current 25 man roster!

By mr baseball

May 10, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

There are basically only 2 options if KJ is dropped out of the leadoff spot:

1) Yunel and Kotsay 1-2; KJ and the LF 7-8. Probably the best bet, but bunches the lefties and switch hitters, making it easier for opposing managers to utiiize their lefty relievers. Both guys are also much more likely to ground into DPs than KJ.

2) Blanco & Yunel 1-2; KJ & Kotsay 7-8 in whatever order. Lots of folks like Blanco at the top because of his speed, but he can’t drive in runs and the jury is still out on whether he can hit Major League pitching. Why you would put your weakest hitter at the top of the lineup is beyond me. But those who mistakenly think that speed is a bigger deal in baseball than it really is believe guys like Pierre, Otis Nixon & Blanco were born to bat leadoff.

Chance the manager abhors tinkering with his lineup. He’ll make adjustments depending if a righty or lefty is pitching and will shift guys a little if one of his main bats is sitting out and is being replaced by Corky, Prado, whoever.

But he will not under any circumstances move guys around in the order from day to day based on who’s hot, who’s not or who has a history of failure/success against the opposing pitcher.

He left Bret Boone in the 2 hole for an entire season; would have left Andruw at cleanup all last year if the team didn’t trade for Tex; and kept Willie Harris in the leadoff spot weeks after he quit hitting altogether.

Until KJ starts to approach the Mendoza line — or Kotsay gets up to around .333 or so — the lineup ain’t gonna change any time soon. Unless, of course, Cox has a senior moment and forgets that KJ is his leadoff hitter.

By Bobby's Cox

May 10, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

Not even Joe Torre is that patient with AJ.

Not sure if you guys said this in the last blog but supposedly the dodgers are sending him to doctors & eye specialists to see if there’s anything wrong with him.

See you all later…going to disneland.

By AMG

May 10, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Do the Pirates have a lefty going tonight?

Might be a good chance to rest Kelly, but will probably need to keep Jeff in there until the Braves see a righty.

By Jake Mabe

May 10, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB: Is Joe Simpson still recovering from his illness? He wasn’t in the TV booth last night…

By McFann

May 10, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the new blog, Chief.

Gotta agree with you on Francoeur…

By Savannah Guy

May 10, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

DOB, maybe in your next interview with Bobby you can ask him or give him hints about benching Frenchy & moving down KJ: “Have you thought about giving Frenchy a day off?”

Bobby’s Cox: It would be less disruptive and annoying for O’Brien to, instead of trying to manipulate Cox, just take one for the team. First he could visit a local doctor’s office lobby, find a pretty lady with the flu, give her a big fat kiss, swap spit for a while then go straight to the Braves clubhouse and give Frenchy a big fat, well… maybe just sneeze on Frenchy. Less dangerous and not nearly as cringe worthy.

Four problems solved with a kiss and a sneeze. Streak over, Jeff rests, pressures off and Braves benefit. That and David could meet a very nice lady in the doc’s office. Of course this clandestine flu bug transfer mission will require that Carroll Rogers take over the blog a few days while DOB is convalescing at home with chicken noodle soup.

AJC Headline: “O’Brien gives one-catches one-gives one and takes one for the team. Will return soon.”

By dogmeat

May 10, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

AJ was used as ph last couple games. 160 ba 1 hr. 4 rbi.

By Savannah Guy

May 10, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

Has Joe Simpson been around Frenchy? Hmmm…

By TexasBrave

May 10, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

My batting order tonight Escobar, Diaz, Chipper, Tex, Frenchy, Kotsay, McCann, and Johnson. Reasoning is that Diaz usually rakes vs lefties and batting McCann because it just takes too many more hits to drive him in. How many times have we seen this year that he doesn’t score on a double from first or a single from second. Another reason to bat him seventh would be so he could clean-up with all the hitters getting on base in front of him. Kelly 8th because with his patience he could draw walks in front of the pitcher who could bunt him over and score on a single from the lead off guy.

So why not just take the decision out of the kid’s hands now, take some pressure off him, and sit him a day; before it gets even longer and the pressure to keep playing him grows even more. DOB

An excellent point. The longer the streak gets the more difficult it will be to sit him out of a game. Wait until the next game vs a right handed pitcher and give him a game or even two off. Perhaps let Infante or Norton get some playing time in right.

By eric the elder

May 10, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

Maybe rest Francoeur, but not tonight. Yesterday, he hit two rockets to right field, which MIGHT be an indication that he is trying something different. If he falls back into old habits, then yes, rest him.

KJ’s inability to get a bunt down last night, which probably resulted in our losing the game, might have been the final straw for Bobby. Or at least it should be.

Before I buy into Yunel leading off, maybe someone can help me out with stats. It seems to me that his sweet areas are right and right center. When he pulls, he seems to be rolling over on the ball and hitting weak grounders. Just a feeling I have, and no data.

At least against righties, I lean more toward trying Blanco at lead off.

By Cooper

May 10, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

Excellent blog DOB. You nailed two key problems that need to be addressed (among many).

Please feel free to offer the idea or pose the question to BC. “How long are you going to stick with this dance card Bobby b/c it is not working.”

Better yet ask Wren. You will achieve hero status if you do. :)

P.S. Any chance the Braves inquire about the A’s Harden. I have a feeling he is going to come back solid but being a slight question mark (health wise) the As may be willing to let him go.

The guy can be (has been) great and is only 26. I know he also has some injury issues but nothing that looks like a show stopper.

Hudson Glavine JJ Harden JOJO/Bennett/James/Morton dance card until Hampton (barf) can pitch again.

By john

May 10, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

So- dave, is it off limits to suggest to bobby, or simply ask him if he has thought about giving francoeur a day off?

By Goodoleboy58

May 10, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Bobby’s Cox

It’ll be interesting to see if the eye doctor comes back with anything… I’ve been wondering that myself since last year… I wish him well

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

Tonight’s lineup: 1. Omar Infante (2B); 2. Escobar; 3. Chipper; 4. Tex; 5. Francoeur; 6. McCann; 7. Diaz; 8. Kotsay; 9. Chuck….

Not only is Francoeur struggling but I honestly think he is 0 for the season with a runner at third and less than 2 out. Can you check on that?Patrick

Yes, I can. Francoeur is 5-for-26 (.192) with runners in scoring position and less than two outs.

He’s 6-for-16 with RISP and two outs.

By Random

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

DOB: “Slow-starting Tex got going, but now he’s struggling again.” (.256/.349/.414)

A Modest Proposal

Until Mark Charles Texeira “cowboys” up and gets his BA up to .280 or his SLG up to .500, he shall be known here as “Tesh”, a nickname not only more phonically correct, but also with more current applicability (he’s still got those good hands at first) than “Tex”.

By Daybed Wagmoe

May 10, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

Not only is Francoeur struggling but I honestly think he is 0 for the season with a runner at third and less than 2 out. Can you check on that?Patrick

According to baseball-reference.com, Frenchy is 3-for-13 (.231) in said situation. He also has 2 walks (one of which was intentional), 2 strikeouts, 2 sac flies, and one GIDP.

On yesterday’s blog, I posted some stats on how Francoeur has been doing since his 7-rbi game. I’ll post them again so that they’re here:

* 22 games total: 21/86 (.244), 11k, 7 walks (plus 1 intentional), 11 runs, 9 rbi, no HR
* Runners on Base: 6-for-38 (.158 average), 4 GIDP
* Bases Empty: 15/48 (.313), 0 rbi.
* RISP: 5/29 (.172)

By dogmeat

May 10, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

Bobby”s Cox- Eye Dr. said he was OK. That was on Thursday. Why is everyone a scaredy-cat to ask Cox a question? Chop Chick’s not!

By Mike

May 10, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

Great blog DOB…This is my first first post Agree with you on all parts…and I have some ideas about our wonderful team and some things to share… We need to give Blanco a chance to play everyday and bat leadoff. I think they should try this b/c he is a great hitter and has speed. We are losing these 1 run games b/c we cant play small ball. We need to get back to playing scrappy pesky small ball, AND THEN killin them with the long ball. We need to remeber to walk, steal, bunt, etc… My line up would be as follows… Blanco LF/CF Escobar SS Hoss 3rd Tex 1st Bmac C Frenchy RF (after a few days off) KJ 2nd Kotsay/Diaz CF/LF (occassional platoon) As far as pitching…We need Wren to find us a dependable #3/4 guy that could help anchor the rotation for some years. I know that will be very hard, and it will cost. I dont want to mortgage the future, but we have alot of peices that are good that we will not need in the future and we should use them to get what we do need. With Mike “not that we realied on him anyways” Hampton, Tommy and Smoltzie all probably gone next year, we will have serious need for an experienced dependable #3/4 guy in our rotation… and we could use him now. Sooooo…Get that guy and then you’ve got… Huddy Tommy JJ (insert new guys name here) Jo Jo/Chucky Bullpen will be stout with or w/o Soriano when Smoltzie and Gonzo are back…What do you think?

By chase

May 10, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

N8

You start off the day taking shots at me while I’m not here to defend myself? What’s that about man? LOL!

I don’t want GANT to be th emanager but I bet if he was he’d already made some of those moves DOB suggested and at least he ain’t afraid to attack COX’s decisions on the air and say what MOST of us are thinking….

I think it is definitley time to shake things up (at least on the road)

Try really shaking the lineup up for a game…

Like they talk about some old manager broke a streak by tossing names in a hat and drawing for batting order…

I don’t think I’d go that extreme but what about…

1. Kotsay

2. Blanco

3. TEX

4. Chipper

5. Escobar (high contact and walk guy

6. McCann

7. Frenchy/Diaz

8. Infante/KJ

Is that lineup TOO far out there?

Maybe that’s what they need on the road to break this up..

Whaddya think? Any other ideas?

By Patrick

May 10, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB,

And those number are terrible. They are terrible from his numbers in that situation last year and for a guy that will not sign a long-term extension because he wants a peak year before he’ll sign so he gets maximum $$$

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

Now playing on the stadium PA during BP: Springsteen and the Sessions Band’s “Pay Me My Money Down.”

Yesterday they played some Zevon during BP.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

Oh, and as expected, Carlyle was DL’d to make room for Chuck (retro DL to yesterday).

Smoltz hopes to throw here in Pittsburgh, talked to him before game. Tomorrow is two weeks without throwing for him. He actually hadn’t even picked up a ball until today, when he’s out shagging fly balls in the OF during BP as we speak.

But he’s throwing them in underhanded, per orders. They’ll test him again tomorrow, resistence stuff, etc, and see if he’s ready to do light throwing.

By albanian braves fan

May 10, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

boots of albanian leather just as good. much cheaper also.

By Chop Chop

May 10, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

DOB mentioned Zevon. I couldn’t find this on YouTube anywhere, but you should be able to play it.

“Bill Lee” by Warren Zevon

By InCognito

May 10, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

Bobby is going to start that platoon at 2nd again isn’t he…

By rupert

May 10, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

DOB, is this the start of a platoon, of course bobby wont admit it, but… not that in this case, like with diaz, it wouldnt be the right thing to do, on the contrary, might give kj some extra motivation or something

By Chris

May 10, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

I agree with everything you said!

By yunel is the man

May 10, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

Chase I have always thought that lineup would be good if you could leave it like that. ON the other when diaz plays he wouldnt make a good 2 hitter (free swinger)

By chase

May 10, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

Has anyone else seen the BUSTER OLNEY article about the MUTS potentially releasing DELGADO?!

Wow how he has fallen…I might have to laugh at the MUTS if that happens…

The article talks about them trying to get XAVIER NADY back to play first..HAHAHA…he may not even want to go back there

By chase

May 10, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this

JAQUES JONES was released by the TIGERS…

Anybody interested?

It is crazy that you got guys out there like EDMONDS, JONES, Frank THOMAS, and even BONDS who can’t find work..(I know Thomas caught on with the A’s but he was cut)

By yunel is the man

May 10, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

Hey all yall KJ lovers!!!!!!! Do yall remember back in march when I said there would be a platoon by june and I got laughed at for three days. Well lets see looks like I am 20 days ahead of myself. thank god Bobby woke up or Wren may have shown Bobby who had the bigger brass balls.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this

They just played Waylon (Dukes theme) before introducing the Braves. Ain’t nothing wrong with that, now….

By Shamus Thacker

May 10, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this

If a barbecue is properly hacked, stacked, and slathered-down, you inevitably end up wearing part of it. If your shirt doesn’t look like you’ve been in a paintball battle when it’s time to leave, a refund is in order…

By Metropolitan Man

May 10, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

CHASE:

I’m curious, where is the link to that article on Delgado? I dont see it on ESPN. Thanks, appreciate it.

By Lew

May 10, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

Well-The Mets must really have lost confidence in DelGado (justified, but…). They would have to pay him for the rest of this year AND a $4 mil buyout for next year, too. Wonder who they would get to play first for this year?

By McFann

May 10, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

AVGs of tonight’s lineup:

.333

.320

.413

.256

.263

.317

.290

.297

All except for spots 4 & 5, we got some really good averages goin’ out there. (But Infante’s only had one start, so it’s hard to judge him.)

Teixeira cann start heating up any time now and it wouldn’t hurt my feelings.

By Coach ( Braves In 2008 to the playoffs)

May 10, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

O’Brien, sorry about that last post. I hope Chuck can give us five or six quality innings today, I’m just frustrated with watching the same problem contributing to the Braves woes in one run games.

As for Francoeur, His game streak is debatable. Cal Ripkin Jr. was questioned many times because he played through injuries and slumps, Frenchy is opening himself up for the same kind second guessing.

Took the kids to see Iron Man. Robert Downey Jr. was quit good in his portrayal of the character, although I’ve hardly read any of the comic books and am no authority on the subject. Stan Lee got his cameo, AGAIN. Somehow, I smell a sequal coming to a theater near you.

I can’t wait for the fourth installment of the Raiders of the Lost Ark movie series on May 22nd. Harrison Ford is my favorite actor of all time ! The first time I saw him on the big screen was when my Dad took me to see the Star Wars premiere in 1977. Funny as it may sound, I didn’t get to see American Graffiti until many years later on VHS.

Anyway , it’s almost game time. Maybe the different lineup will produce better results.

By Amber

May 10, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

*By Savannah Guy *

First he could visit a local doctor’s office lobby, find a pretty lady with the flu, give her a big fat kiss, swap spit for a while then go straight to the Braves clubhouse and give Frenchy a big fat, well… maybe just sneeze on Frenchy.

I’ll volunteer to step in and save DOB from kissing Frenchy… But that means I’d have to kiss DOB too… Got a pic of yourself I could see? LOL!

On a less joking note, I’d add one more thing to Frenchy’s problems - he’s stated several times that he was unhappy with his power numbers last year and is trying to increase them this year. Here’s a suggestion - DON’T. He had a fantastic year last year and I’d hate to see his overall offense suffer because he wants a few more appearances on “Touch ‘Em All.”

Chicks may dig the longball, but true baseball chicks dig a great OBP more!

By albanian braves fan

May 10, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this

is time for catching fevers of baseball again.

watching if braves “straightened out”. last night not so straight.

problem for tonight is “chuckie james”. is pitching baseballs in very straight to batters. leaving from batter even more straight. so maybe not wanting “chuckie james” being straightened out. be crookedening, “chuckie james”!

By Risingstar

May 10, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

Reading some stats from offensive:

2008 National League Ranks AVG R OBP SLG OPS .285 171 .353 .441 .794
1st 8th 4th 3rd 3rd

not bad, but look now at the pitching:

ERA BAA OPS SV QS 3.48 .234 .669 5 17 2nd 2nd 2nd 14th 2nd

pitching has been awesome, and if you consider all the inyuries on this team and the class of the pitchers that are or has been on the disable list, to rank 2nd on almost every category it’s amaizing, Cox and Mcdowell should be doing something good with the rotation, don’t even the same pitchers

the reason for the braves to be where they are is the lineup, the wrong placement of the pieces

1.- Kelly is not a lead off man, Cox have in Blanco a natural choice, Yunuel did pretty well last year in that spot and it’s doing very well this season, you have Kotsay too to start the game a position where he has been in the past, Infante could be another option.

2.- Tex is not producing in the 4th spot, why not try to change something there, move Tex to the 5th and bring Frenchy to 4th, this way Frenchy should have more protection and can see better pitches per turn.

3.- Penddleton should tie Frenchy’s bat with some chain to stop that first pitch swing until he have the first strike on the count.

1. Diaz is not an everyday man, Blanco should start everygame, the joungster has all the potential to become a very good outfielder, let’s keep Diaz for the pinch hitter situation.

So with a line up of:

1 Blanco 2 Escobar 3 Chipper 4 Frenchy 5 Tex 6 McCann 7 Kelly 8 Kotsay 9 ………

the line up looks more balanced, whit this moves you could expect two things:

1- to stay in the same place we are now, or

2- to wake up all those sleepers named Frenchy, Tex and Kelly and start rolling again

By Eleth

May 10, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

“Take him out back and shoot him?” What the heck. I’m aware that you are being sarcastic, but honestly, it’s hard to go from that to saying that you think he’s a great guy in just a couple of sentences. And it’s one night. braves.com has an article up exclaiming the praises of Johnson. Give this platoon Kelly stuff a rest. He has the night off. Go complain about Teixeira.

By eric the elder

May 10, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

Escobar is a natural right side hitter. That’s why he’s batting second in the lineup. So why in the name of heaven to we have him bunting?!!

By TJ

May 10, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

Why are we playing for 1 run in the top of the 1st?

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this

See, all it took was to note no homers in 16 games for Teixeira, and boom! Next at-bat, home run.

By P-Town Brave

May 10, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

Stupid move by Cox (AGAIN) to have our 2nd best hitter bunting over a runner…

BUT, did Tex get some DOB Blog karma there or what?!

By William

May 10, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

I like Blanco better as a lead off guy than Kelly. As far as Frenchy goes, he just doesn’t look comfortable at the plate. I think he is thinking to much. I don’t know how a day off can fix that other than clearing his mind and relaxing. I say let him play and he will figure things out. If memory serves me correctly, in 06’ he got of to a horrid start 3 for 33 or something like that. Then he got hot and had a good year. He’s 24 not 40.

By uga-brave

May 10, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

great blog DOB, my thoughts exactly.

welcome back tex. that was a bomb.

By Pete H.

May 10, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

Hmm, Tex appears to be getting well. I hope this is the start of a torrid streak for him. We need it.

By BravesFanChris23

May 10, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

Well, the top of the 1st was an interesting sequence, but I’ll be happy with the end result. Tex nailed it.

By Ryan

May 10, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

Any fellow denizens having trouble with their mlb.tv feed? Can’t watch the game but can get the gameday audio so it’s not all bad.

By Risingstar

May 10, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this

Eric the elder, to be a wining team you have to go to the basics, every 1st or 2nd bat even 3rd should be abble to bunt, thats baseball basics, if you do the small things you are going to be abble to produce more, why should we wait for a double or a hommer to bring in some runs, that’s basics are something the braves lack off, Cox is never thinking on advansing the runner to the next base he is always waiting for the big splash, if Boby starts sending more runners to steal bases or hit n run plays you have the players always in the game, and put some pressure on the rival

you should play to produce not wait to produce

By uga-brave

May 10, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

anyone that ever gets to the burgh and the pirates are home, pnc might be the best setting in baseball.

By TJ

May 10, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

I really wonder if Yunel’s bunt was called by Bobby, or just the batter’s decision, bunting for a hit. Just made no sense.

No harm done, of course, with the 2 run blast by Tex.

Chipper’s down to .409… time to get hot again.

By Tomas

May 10, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

DOB, I totally agree with what you wrote. And I really think this slump from Tex is just a product of bad luck, he hits the ball hard every single time. He just hit a homer from the right side, its just a matter of time before the hits and homers start dropping for him.

By Yars

May 10, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

If KJ isn’t starting at 2B tomorrow, then we have to assume there is a platoon at 2B. Bucs throwing another lefty tomorrow, & another Monday.

By chase

May 10, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

Metro Man

go to MLBTRADERUMORS.COM they have a an article on it as well as a link to the origianl BUSTER OLNEY article..

By james

May 10, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this

dob, a couple of days ago u said that frank wren told u that cole rohrbaugh would pitch this week. seeing as its almost sunday, has there been some setback?

By eric the elder

May 10, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this

Risingstar, I’m sorry but your post is incomprehensible. If, as you say, Bobby never tries to advance the runner, then why did he have Yunel bunting??

My point was that Yunel hits to the right side with the best of them. Doing that could advance the runner or possibly score the run.

I appreciated your homily on the “basics,” and I’m sure I have much to learn from you.

By chase

May 10, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

Tough luck for YUNEL and the Braves…GANT and BOOG are right..that is the kind of flucky crap that is happening constantly on the road!

By McFann

May 10, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

Great job, Chief!

By albanian braves fan

May 10, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

obrien is mentioning “the meat of the blog”. risingstar is mentioning “produce”.

is sounding like supermarket! only dairy products is missing.

By Singindablues

May 10, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

If Francoeur is really set on a consecutive games played streak then that is very disappointing. That has to be one of the most selfish stats in baseball. Because that means he will try to play in some games when he really has no business being in the lineup and becomes a liability instead of contributer. I admire players who tough it out thru nagging injuries to play but at some point it’s up to the manager to sit a player for the good of the team. And last time I checked the success of the team far outweighed individual stats.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

James, Frank’s not on the trip and minor league pitchers in extended spring training do not come up in conversations with folks here with the major league team. Sorry, but I don’t have time to check on a matter that’s not of concern to the major league team right now.

By the goche

May 10, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

Wow, how on earth do you miss that call, then it immediately costs us a run. That wasn’t even close! Just a terrible call.

Tough luck for Mac too.

By chase

May 10, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

WOW…replay of last night…an UMP BLOWS a call and it costs the Braves…

Sure the HR would’ve still been there BUT it would still have been a tie game….

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

Eleth, you OK? I’m gonna actually go back and change the wording, since your sensibilities have been jolted by my sarcasm regarding Kelly.

By McFann

May 10, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

That guy was SO OUT at first base!!! That ump shoulda been watching the glove, not the bag!

I’m watching under protest. The game it tied 2-2.

By N8

May 10, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this

Guys, I might have to quit watching this team. I literally think I’m bad luck.

JUST walked in the door, and the FIRST pitch I saw, was the 2-run HR from Bay.

Unreal.

By chase

May 10, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

Here we are..DOWN BY ONE-RUN on the road AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By albanian braves fan

May 10, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

is “chucking”. typically.

By Coach ( Braves In 2008 to the playoffs)

May 10, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

Just great ! The 1st base ump completely blows the call at first base on the pick off throw and the very next pitch goes out for a two run bomb.

Not to mention the bad luck of having our lead off hitter erased twice already after getting on base leading off the the first and third innings.

By Jeff321

May 10, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

WOW! I’m watching the Pirates feed on MLB.. And even their announcers said Tex tagged Michaels’ out.

Oh yeah, KJ needs to be moved down the order and Frenchy looks lost at the plate. But, then again, isn’t Bobby Cox still the manager? So, I expect more of the same.

By eric the elder

May 10, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

Going back to last night, that’s 3 consecutive attempted bunts that have failed.

By Shamus Thacker

May 10, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

This is pretty much the end of Tex’s spring training. He should be ready to light it up about now.

By Coach ( Braves In 2008 to the playoffs)

May 10, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

O my GOD ! they did it again ! Kotsay is erased after another ineffective bunt. Thats the third time the Braves lead off hitter has reached base and been erased. Then the Pirates turn two and end the inning.

Unbelievable !

By northbeach Scott

May 10, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

Chuck and duck. Thanks ump.

By Braveheart

May 10, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

is sounding like supermarket! only dairy products is missing.

Lots of milfs in supermarkets. Milfs have lots of milk in their melons. We need more MILFs.

By keylargo

May 10, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this

DOB

I know this is unlikely, but that’s part of the blog. I know the Marlins payroll is about $23M and that the new stadium is years away for them. The question is what would it take in addition to Escobar to get Hanley Ramirez from the Marlins. I don’t think the average Braves fan realizes that Ramirez will be another A Rod type player. He’s 25, 6’3” 210, hit .330 with 29 homers last year. The Marlins are talking to him about 6 years @ $70M. That’s affordable.

By eric the elder

May 10, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

Okay, folks, it’s time for my annual lecture: We cannot go back in time and change something and then assume that everything following that event would remain the same.

We are saying that the ump’s blown call cost us a run because, if he had gotten it right, Bay’s homer would have been a solo shot.

But if the runner had been called out, as he should have been, there is no reason to believe that Bay still hits the homer. With an out and no one on base, the pitch sequence is probably different, Chuckie is less distracted, etc.

We hear this faulty reasoning all the time - - even from announcers.

By Original Jon

May 10, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

After Omar grounded into that double play, I was sure that Atlanta lead the league in that stat. But surprisingly enough, we dont, but we are tied for 4th. And Mark Kotsay leads the team with 7 GIDP.

By AMG

May 10, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

I’m going to start putting a dollar in my piggy bank everytime the Braves hit into a double play … I should have a full bank by the end of the year.

By TJ

May 10, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

Not much future in whining about blown calls (which that was, without a doubt).

Braves vaunted offense has put up 4 runs in 15 innings against the worst pitching staff in the NL.

Score some runs, and these things aren’t such a big deal.

By Coach ( Braves In 2008 to the playoffs)

May 10, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

For the fourth time, the lead off man gets on base and again, he gets erased here in the sixth inning.

UN-FREAKING BELIEVABLE !

The Braves have a two run bomb and so do the Pirates.

The difference on the scoreboard is that double steal in the Pirates second inning which led to the sacrifice fly for the third Pittsburgh run.

By couldawouldashoulda

May 10, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

Let me begin by saying I absolutely love the blue jerseys. When I saw them on opening night I knew I had to have the hat. With that being said I think they may have cursed us on the road.

Soooo….

DOB, is there any way of knowing our record while wearing the alternate blues? I’m pretty sure Jair won a game wearing them, so I know we haven’t lost every time when in blue.

Also, has Smoltz continued to play golf with the hurt shoulder? I’m not someone who thinks playing golf is bad for players. If anything I think it helps them, especially pitchers. I was just curious.

By Shamus Thacker

May 10, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this

Did any of you notice Matt Ryan’s left hand in the passing photo on AJC SPORTS homepage? Looks kinda like my sister’s left hand when she throws cow chips…

By Don

May 10, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this

Cox has lost it, He needs to go. His current ability to motivate and coach is about equal to Woodson’s. Unfortunately, he will stay as the organization and other Cox backers will cry the “he needs to go out on his own terms” motto.

By The Goche

May 10, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this

The freeze they did of that missed call at first is just perfect, because it’s one thing to see just how obviously out he was, but it’s a completely different to see just how great a view the umpire had.

He was right on top of the play when he missed it.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

Braves had leadoff hits in the first, third, fifth and sixth innings, and a leadoff walk in the fourth … and NONE OF THOSE RUNNERS SCORED.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

Wow, intentional walk THERE? I don’t understand that move.

By northbeach Scott

May 10, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

chuck and duck, looks like a batting practice pitcher. Sheeesh, if I may borrow from McFann. At least now it will not be a 1 run loss.

By Original Jon

May 10, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

Seriously, who needs pitching depth like this?

By Coach ( Braves In 2008 to the playoffs)

May 10, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

There you go. Chuck James, six innings, five runs and BOBBY BLEEPING COX puts his seventh best starter on the mound and lets him get lit up like a damn Christmas tree !

By McFann

May 10, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

Aw, fine! 4-2! C’mon, guys, let’s score some runs!!

Sheesh.

By AMG

May 10, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

I wonder if Chuck James would even be around if he were right handed.

By Bi-Polar

May 10, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

This team is bi-polar.

Frenchy ain’t Cal Ripken yet he’s telling Bobby when he’s playing which is every day. Sorry folks, Frenchy is a decent player, and not anything more. He’s not a star except in the mind of some in the media who still see him as a golden boy. He’s definitely not good enough to be in the lineup every day just to keep a streak going.

Bobby is senile and needs to retire.

Bobby has been guilty of leaving pitchers in too long so they can get a decision.

That is all.

By Jeff321

May 10, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

Intentional walk, eh? Tell me Bobby, how’s that working out for ya?

By N8

May 10, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this

LOL! Why am I laughing, you may ask?

So I can distract myself from TRASHING my TV.

Nice scoop by LaRoche. That guy sure can play first base.

If only we had him on our t…… oh. Never mind.

By Original Jon

May 10, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

This team is so pitiful on the road. How in the world can it be so brutally awful on the road, but so awesome at home? I mean, this is the Pirates we are talking about.

By Shamus Thacker

May 10, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

I thought one’a Y’all said earlier that Francoeur was gonna sit this’un out. Musta got my wars [Yankee And Albanian Translation: wires] crossed…

He shoulda rode the pine pony tonight…

By StingerSplash

May 10, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

Braves are making Gorzelanny look like John Smiley circa 1991. Some very poor ABs tonight, especially with Diaz not getting the bat off his shoulder last inning. Following on MLB Gameday, it doesn’t appear James pitched all that poorly — just couldn’t get Michaels, Bay or Paulino when he needed to. Also scratched my head on the walk to LaRoche in the sixth, too.

By Del

May 10, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

Two comments: (1) Our announcers keep harping on bad luck on the road. Bad luck doesn’t have a darn thing to do with it. Bad execution does!! (2) Sure didn’t take long to lose that good feeling from the recent Braves home stand.

By N8

May 10, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

Be careful with those ALL CAPS in your post, DOB.

Somebody might mistake you for a fan that cares. LOL!

By Coach ( Braves In 2008 to the playoffs)

May 10, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

I knew Chuck James was gonna get lit up before this game was ever even played.

Bobby Cox didn’t. What does that say about our Hall of Fame manager.

By Deanerthebravo

May 10, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

This team is flat out painful to watch on the road…We’ve got to start winning on road very soon, or it will be 3 yrs in a row with no playoffs…..

By Shamus Thacker

May 10, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

Bobby had any licks on the head lately?

The lunatic is on the grass

The lunatic is on the grass

Remembering games and daisy chains and laughs

Got to keep the loonies on the path

GO BOBBY!! No, really, GO BOBBY, like right now!!

By AMG

May 10, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

Is it possible the next two games played in the month of May in Pittsburg could determine how the raminder of the season goes? Keep loosing on the road and it will get into a team’s head.

By N8

May 10, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Del

“Two comments: (1) Our announcers keep harping on bad luck on the road. Bad luck doesn’t have a darn thing to do with it. Bad execution does!!”

Uh Oh! That roaring you hear coming from inside the cave, is the sleeping bear, otherwise known as Shaun. Expect an argument from him on that comment (I’m sure I’ll hear from him due to mine. LOL!

“(2) Sure didn’t take long to lose that good feeling from the recent Braves home stand.”

Not if you didn’t feel that good about winning six in a row AT HOME AGAINST LAST PLACE TEAMS.

If you people open your eyes, every now and then, the reality of the situation is staring you in the face.

That reality being, that this team CANNOT (and more than likely will not), consistently win in close games. And surely they’ve proved to all of you, that this is gonna be one ugly season of “road baseball”. Add to that, when you throw a lefty at the Braves when they are on the road, that about “seals the deal” before the first pitch is ever thrown.

If you optimists would just accept that, it makes losses like this one (not yet a loss, I guess, but soon enough it will be), much easier to deal with, because you’re not surprised by it.

Sorry to put a damper on the six game winning streak. LOL!

By AMG

May 10, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

$1.00 … I’m gonna’ be rich!!

By Original Jon

May 10, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

Another MOTHER EFFIN DOUBLE PLAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Could this team possibly SUCK any more at situational hitting?

By N8

May 10, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

Coach

Welcome aboard the “Cox should be outa here” EXPRESS. I’ll be your conductor this evening. My co-pilot Robert has yet to be seen recently.

Hang tight everybody, we’re not sure of the exact departure time. But believe me. It can’t leave soon enough.

In tribute to our senile manager, and to help buy some time while we wait to depart, our featured movie for the trip will be Groundhog Day, which we will just put on “repeat”.

Thank you for your patience.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

Only ONE at-bat with a runner in scoring position all night, and that was Escobar’s bad bunt in first inning. That’s it. Amazing. No other RISP at-bats.

(The guy who smashed his finger bunting a couple weeks ago, Escobar.)

By DCbrave

May 10, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

With that many players grounded into that many DPs in that many games with no adjustment whatsoever? TP cannot sit still, or we shall not let him sit still.

By Coach ( Braves In 2008 to the playoffs)

May 10, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Hey, David O’Brien. Even the Pirate announcers where stunned when Cox left James in the game and let him pitch to the right handed hitting Paulino after the walk to LaRoche.

It’s just sad, very very sad.

By N8

May 10, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this

It just hit me what that 250 patch on the Pirates jerseys signifies.

That is apparently how many DP’s the Braves will ground into, while facing the Pirates this year.

GOOD LORD!

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

NINE DOUBLE PLAYS grounded into by Braves in last four games, and that didn’t count the lined into double play tonight.

By richbrave

May 10, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

DAVID O’BRIEN:

Yours of 8:41 p.m. With you. Noted it on the log, and said DAMM - whaz zup with that. Just one more run to tally. Make ‘um hit their way on.

By Original Jon

May 10, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

Who wants to take a bet right now that the Braves will rally back to within 1 run and then GROUND INTO AN GAME ENDING DOUBLE PLAY??????

By Philliesuk

May 10, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

Normally, I try to stay positive. However, this game is freaking ridiculous.

The intentional walk? What? Adam Freaking LaRoche? Did I miss something?

I’m sure he’s a nice guy, but Chuck James has got to go. It’s funny that these Pirates announcers keep talking about how great he is. I see him as a guy who can’t go more than 5-6 innings and gives up a lot of taters. He will never, ever be a pitcher we can rely on in the post-season. Therefore, lose him.

Why can we not hit lefties? On paper, we have some strong right-handed hitters…Yunel, Frenchy, Diaz…Oh yeah, maybe it’s cause they don’t know how to work a count.

I’m waiting for the day when we start to win on the road. It will happen, eventually.

Jurrjens tomorrow, finally.

albanian braves fan, please say something ridiculous. I’m needing it.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

I knew Chuck James was gonna get lit up before this game was ever even played.

Bobby Cox didn’t. What does that say about our Hall of Fame manager.Coach

For one thing, says he didn’t have a lot of options to choose from. Chuck or Jeff Bennett, who’s becoming every-day Jeff in the ‘pen.

By N8

May 10, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

DOB, what’s our record when a LH pitcher starts?

By StingerSplash

May 10, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

Well, at least it didn’t take long. Broo-tull.

By Shamus Thacker

May 10, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

Summa Y’all write posts that are SO long, and SO ridiculous, that you should immediately be admitted to a psychiatric hospital. And take Bobby with Ya!

By brent a.

May 10, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

The Marlins record after tonight will be 22-14.

Our record is now 18-17.

I think it’s time we accept that we may only be the 4th best team in the East.

Yes, we could still win it. Yes, the season is long, but we continue to struggle on the road, and in key situations and it’s costing us precious games.

By northbeach Scott

May 10, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

Not sure what is worse to listen to the broadcast and hear Lemke’s inane chirpy commentary, “Chuck threw a pretty good game tonight, 6 IP and 5 ER.” WTF?

Or the suddenly know it all Ronnie Gant on TV. He of the undisciplined plate approach and motorcycle accidents pretends to preach plate discipline to Brave hitters.

We need Skip and Pete on radio (I know Skip is ill and not making road trips). How I love Skips wry commentary. Boog and Simpson do a good job on TV.

By TennesseePaul

May 10, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

Wow. Real weak showing by the Braves today. Chipper is on a bad run lately. 1 hit in his last 11 plate appearances.

This team better not be knocked down to .500 by the stinking Pirates. What a bummer that’d be.

Take the next 2 Braves!

By Original Jon

May 10, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

7 games straight on the road, lose the first 2. Get ready for a 7 game losing streak. Its gonna happen.

By Metropolitan Man

May 10, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

Thanks for that link Chase. Thank you braves for laying donw on the road after ruining my week of constant winning at home. The universe has now been re-aligned.

By albanian braves fan

May 10, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

game provides evidence that braves is not yet “straightened out” as has been explained previously.

as journalist, obrien must confront brave officials and demand of explanation.

By McFann

May 10, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

Well that was dull. Chucky only gives up four, and we can’t do a darn against the team with the worst ERA in the National League!

Gotta win these next two. Don’t wanna sound like the world’s coming to an end for this team, but my gosh! 4-13? What is THAT?!

By harvey

May 10, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this

get rid of cox bunting in the first inning cant we hit and run once we sure the hell cant sac anymore. I will not watch if James pitches again cant stand the guy.Gant shout tour about are pitching coach bring back leo

By BravesFanChris23

May 10, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this

Braves lost because of a few reasons. One, Bobby leaving Chuck in. That was a mistake right there. Two, that bad call when he was clearly out. Three, bad luck. There was some really good hitting by Braves that would’ve helped and maybe scored some runs, but the bad luck was that when they were hit the Pirates defense was either there because it was hit hard to them or they robbed Braves of the hits.

I’m not chalking it all up to bad luck, because there was plenty of times during the game that bad execution cost them some much needed help/runs/ect…., but there was bad luck in some key moments, that can’t be denied either. It definitely does suck that they lost again, but its not a disaster yet, like a lot of people are thinking/saying/going on about. If they can pull off winning the next two games in Pitts and either sweeping or take two of three from Phillies, they’ll be OK.

I know it seems like its highly unlikely in how they are going, but its very possible. I know the ones being pessimistic have a right to be and it can be justifiable. However, the same goes for the optimistic ones. I don’t want to get into that again, so I’ll leave it at that on that subject.

With Jurrjens and Hudson going next two games, the chances are much better to win than to lose. So right there, it gives reasons to feel that it can turn around for the better. If it doesn’t then its sad and room for a lot of concern/criticism.

I will say this though, the umpires needs to get their act together because a couple of bad calls have already been costly for the Braves chances at winning. Once again, I’m not chalking it all up on bad luck/umpire’s fault, because its not. There’s room for fault in the team, but its not all the team’s fault and that certainly can’t be denied.

If we can win the next two and sweep Phillies, we’ll be 5-2 on this road trip and these two losses will be moot. If we can win the next two and take two of three from Phillies, we’ll be 3-3. Not exactly thrilling, but not bad or horrible either. I believe that one of the two can happen. I just hope it goes smoothly.

By harvey

May 10, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this

get rid of cox bunting in the first inning cant we hit and run once we sure the hell cant sac anymore. I will not watch if James pitches again cant stand the guy.Gant shout tour about are pitching coach bring back leo

By Coach ( Braves In 2008 to the playoffs)

May 10, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this

N8, you see. This is why I did not want to talk to you.

You can take your train and run it right off the tracks.

Bobby Cox is going nowhere fast. The man is the dean of all managers and has earned the right to do whatever the hell he wants whether it’s right or wrong. This is a playoff caliber baseball team and if Cox continues to drive it into the ground, he will have no one to blame but himself.

By Original Jon

May 10, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this

Chucky gave up 5, not 4

By DCbrave

May 10, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

N8 - Do you still have ticket?

By DCbrave

May 10, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this

Not just cox. You cannot blame Cox for that many GIDPs. It’s TP too.

By albanian braves fan

May 10, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

a rickety branch is once saying: “bad luck” is resident of poorly designed housing. is metaphor.

bobby cox must now be sleeping in bed he makes. obviously.

By N8

May 10, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

Coach

“You can take your train and run it right off the tracks”

A) Do you think that I don’t realize that he’s NOT going anywhere.

B) He’ll run it off the tracks himself. He doesn’t need my help.

Besides. I didn’t actually think you had jumped ship on your hero.

I just don’t like the man’s “style” anymore. I don’t even really dislike HIM. In fact, I don’t know him. Never met him. So I can’t judge him personally. Which is why I don’t.

All I can do is question his “moves” or lack there of.

In all seriousness, as DOB stated, he didn’t have another choice today for the starter. But still. There are OTHER things he can do to help this team win (DOB stated two of them in the header of this blog), but he won’t do it. Which is why I almost can’t watch anymore.

I have YET to miss a JJJ start. Because that kid is fun to watch (with a Braves win OR loss). Chipper and Escobar have been MORE than fun to watch (barring Yunel’s recent DP binge).

Other than that. Not much reason to tune in.

I just enjoy ragging on Bobby, because everybody over-reacts at it, as though I’m saying Santa Clause is a gay pedophile.

By uh Chuck er um James

May 10, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

Uh, I know uh Tim Lincecum and, um, I’m no uh Tim Lincecum. Like, sorry.

By Coach ( Braves In 2008 to the playoffs)

May 10, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

O’Brien, What the hell is wrong with you? Your gonna try and insinuate that Chuck James a more accomplished pitcher right now than Jeff Bennett.

GIVE ME A FRIGGING BREAK !

Your memory is really short. Bennett has made four starts if you include his April 13th four inning effort in relief of Tom Glavine.

Bennett’s line as a starter: 19.2 innings, five earned runs, 2.33 ERA with 10 walks and 14 strike outs.

Bennett has been much more effective as a starter than pitching out of the bullpen. Which again, tells me that Cox is misusing him.

Don’t defend Cox when he screws up, it makes you look stupid.

By ben

May 10, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

Win at home, but not on the road.

By JJMB

May 10, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Getting back to my keen observations (ie Kelly Johnson isn’t a leadoff hitter or 2nd baseman, Cox needs to go, thank god Andruw is somebody else’s problem, Chipper is the absolute BEST, DOB is the Crusading Everyman), let me say this…

Have you looked at Lance Berkman’s stats??? Holy MOLEY!

By N8

May 10, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

“…but the bad luck was that when they were hit the Pirates defense was either there because it was hit hard to them or they robbed Braves of the hits.”

Will you guys STOP with this? Please.

It’s called READING THE SCOUTING REPORT, which is followed by coming up with a game plan, and then EXECUTING those pitches.

I’m gonna venture a guess and assume that this team (Braves) is pretty easy to pitch to, if you hit your spots.

WAY too predictable with their approach.

If you don’t believe me, call the Nationals and ask Pat Corrales how important defensive positioning (and having pitches that DON’T cross up the defense), is to a team’s success.

Or do you think it’s “bad luck” that the Pirates put a shift on Brian McCann and he hits it EXACTLY where the 2B is standing (20 feet into the outfield)?

I don’t.

The only bad luck we have, is that we aren’t lucky enough to have MORE hitters like Chipper in the lineup that will adjust, or a manager that demands it of them.

By N8

May 10, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

I read this in a “bathroom book” of interesting facts and quotes. I thought I’d share it with you all.

“Don’t argue with an idiot. It will confuse others as to who the real idiot is.”

By Don

May 10, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

Blame Cox for the DP’s! His responsibility to coach fundamental bunting and hit and run. Fundamentals lacking here. Team can’t do either. This team like all others in the past. If not hitting the 2 and 3 run bombs, not scoring at all.

By SHA

May 10, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

Pretty obvious Kelly needs to move to the bottom of the order. Switch him with Kotsay since we lack good options with this roster. Shame we can’t get Furcal back as the leadoff/second base. One excellent possibility is moving Infante into the order in Kelly’s spot and use Kelly off the bench…Bench him period. On my mind is the problem the Braves seem to have with some of the worst teams in our league. We can’t handle Washington, Pittsburgh, or Colorado. Heck, Washington’s record (15-21) is primarily courteousy of Atlanta. Take away those wins and where would they be? Now, we play Pittsburgh…the team with the league’s worst ERA (5.06) and opposed by our league leading BA of .285. Yet what happens? We can’t score. We waste an excellent performance by 41 year old Glavine not providing him with any support. We continue this into game two by scoring another piddly two runs. Four runs in eighteen innings, two losses, and an unproductive lineup when Chipper is not hitting. Chipper seems to mask some of the problems this team has: lack of a leadoff hitter/base stealer and a cleanup hitter who intimidates nobody with his team low .256 BA and eighteen strikeouts. If the team has this many problems scoring runs, Cox should revert to a philosophy of manufacturing runs the old-fashioned way. Single/walk, stolen base, sacrifice bunt, and two chances to bring the guy home.The Mets still do it, and the Dodgers still do it. It sure as hell can’t hurt. Soemthing’s gotta change. A closed door meeting by the team captain might help. Not by Cox, but by either Chipper, Smoltz, or Glavine. Somebody needs to take some initiative to bring this bunch together. Too much talent is being wasted and the potential for a decent season is still there if issuess get addressed now and not after the fact.

We have young free-swingers who jump on the first pitch whether it’s high, low, or outside. I mean, how can you get a feel for these new pitchers when you don’t even take them deep into the count. Make these pitchers earn the out, make them throw strikes, and make them have respect for you. Free-swinging…anybody can do that. And, in that regard I’m definitely speaking about Francoeur. He believes his bulk-up during the offseason made him a dangerous hitter. Please!!! He may have gotten more power, but if he can’t put wood on a decent pitch, no pitcher will respect him. He needs to take lessons from Chipper as do others (Diaz, Kelly, Tex). Take what the pitcher gives you. Go with the flow, and don’t try to force things. Swing at good pitches, maybe even wait on your pitch, and keep your eye on the ball all the way. I’ve noticed plenty of wild swings where eye contact is towards the field instead of on the bat/ball.

Watching this team play like a yo-yo is nerve racking. The inconsistency makes one wonder which team is going to take the field…the last place Braves or the ones with a chance at the division title. When Chipper hits, the rest try to hit. When he doesn’t…????? On the road, we get the Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde syndrome. And versus the worst teams, we fall apart —- we can’t even score. As a fan, it is depressing and frustrating. No telling how our staring pitchers (Smoltz ?, Glavine, Hudson, Jurrgens, Reyes) feel. Chuck James, forget it. Five runs in six innings 7.58 ERA. Not a starting pitcher in my book. Would love to see him traded. Let him hurt another ballclub, not ours.

By Braveheart

May 10, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this

N8, you sound like the radio talk show host on the Friday Night Lights television show who is always ragging on Coach Taylor.

The Cooch of course sounds like one of those billybobs who calls into your show all angry and pretending to disagree with you but all he does is rag on Coach Taylor as well.

205-202 in the last 407 games. It’s not working.

By JimD

May 10, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

Coach, if you would quit checking your prostate visually long enough, you would see that DOB was not necessarily saying CJ is better than Bennett. He was simply stating that Jeff has become a regular out of the bullpen of late and therefore not prepared to start. THEREFORE, CJ was his only option.

Gee, how can you see when it is so dark up there? Oh, yeah, right. You can’t.

By TJ

May 10, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

Wow. It’s Cox. It’s TP…

Guess no one has even thought of blaming the players who actually made (or didn’t make) plays on the field.

Chipper is 0/6 in the series. Escobar is 1/9. Frenchy, 1/7. Kotsay, 1/7. That’s 3 for 29 from 4 key hitters.

By N8

May 10, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

Hey. I’m watching you on HBO. OK, not you, but the Mel Gibson movie.

I still haven’t watched any of the Friday Night Lights series yet. My wife loves it.

I was gonna rent season one and “catch up” so I could watch it with her, but never did. So now I guess I have 2 seasons to watch, huh?

“205-202 in the last 407 games. It’s not working.”

DAMN! That’s a LOT of bad luck.

By BravesFanChris23

May 10, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

N8

Will you guys STOP with this? Please.

With all due respect, will stop being whiny and actually try to think before getting on someone’s view before you harp on them because you don’t see it that way? Please.

No offense, not trying to start anything with you, but I don’t like being talked to in that way, like I don’t know what I’m talking about, when I do.

I’ll clarify it for you. I was NOT talking about McCann’s hit. I’m talking about Norton’s hit that was hit hard but Bixler caught it. Talking about the hit that would’ve went for a single/double that Gorzo caught. Talking about the one that was hit in ninth that Sanchez barely caught. I’m not talking just this game alone. So yea, there has been some bad luck in the hitting department. I did say and admit and called that some of the bad stuff was at blame of the inefficiencies of the Braves hitters, but not all of them falls on them.

Yes, blame can definitely be spun towards Braves lack of offensive consistency and inefficiencies, but bad luck DOES and HAS played apart of them on the road trip thus far.

By Lou Vales

May 10, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

Very disappointed in the Marlins offering that deal to Hanley. It is a lot more fun to have won more World Series in the last 11 years than the Rangers, Brewers, Astros, Indians, Devil Rays, Expos/Nationals, CUBS(ROTFLMAO), Giants and BRAVES have won COMBINED in THE LAST 50 years!!!!!! with a payroll just slightly more than Mike Hampton gets for “Tossing off of a mound”.

Dave, you want to do an over and under for Hampton’s starts this year. I’m only 140 miles from Atlnta and WCCP will vouch for my credibility. How about dinner at Ruth Chris for whichever one of us gets closer to Mikey’s starts this year. Blog if were on and I’ll post my number tomorrow.

By N8

May 10, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

SHA

There’s no room for that negativity round these parts.

We’re bound for the playoffs, Tex is gonna stay, and Chuck James will win the Cy Young next year.

Loved every bit of your post.

One argument.

“On my mind is the problem the Braves seem to have with some of the worst teams in our league. We can’t handle Washington, Pittsburgh, or Colorado.”

While they aren’t having the success they had last year, they WERE in the WS, so give them a little respect.

Besides, it was (brrrrrrrr) c-c-c-c-old in Colorado when we played there.

By Lou Vales

May 10, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

There are also people up here who want to do an over and under for Larry’s(Refuse to call an adult man “Chipper”) number of games played. Did he really get hurt getting dressed? I missed that but this guy swears it’s true.

Boog has become a terrific announcer, really enjoy listening to him. Ask him about when Hank Goldberg at the Miami station, who was not convinced about Pete’s lack of gambling—LOL, got into an on air tussle with Dowd who did the report.

Jon’s meteoric rise from Pete Rose’s Ballpark Cafe in Boca Raton is a thing of beauty, and I can name at least 20 guys doing MLB right now that he is better than.

By BravesMinorsfan

May 10, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

Bill Shanks of The Braves Show.com is reporting that the Braves have promoted Tommy Hanson to Mississippi. Hanson was outstanding in Myrtle Beach this season.

By Coach ( Braves In 2008 to the playoffs)

May 10, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this

I’m going to be fair and non-objective. You folks can draw your own conclusions.

Jeff Bennett’s six starts: 30.3 innings, 26 hits, 4 HR’s, 12 Earned runs, 12 walks, 27 strike outs, 3.56 ERA.

Chuck James last six starts: 29.6 innings, 24 hits, 7 HR’s, 20 earned runs, 13 walks, 29 strike outs, 6.06 ERA.

By N8

May 10, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

BravesFanChris23

Every single play you talked about can be attributed to good pitching, and defense, beginning with pitching approach AND defensive alignment.

Sanchez’ play? Good play, good pitch (jammed him pretty good, IMO) and I’m assuming SOMEBODY directed him where to be on the field.

Thus good coaching (along with good execution).

I’m not trying to down-play Andruw’s play in CF the past 10 years.

But we had some pretty good CF’s that happened to ALWAYS be in the right spot at the “right time”. Coincidence?

Nope. Good scouting reports. Good game plan, and 3 HOF starters that could EXECUTE the gameplan with precision control on their pitches.

I’m not trying to start anything with you either. Didn’t mean to sound like I was attacking you.

I’m just so tired of the “bad luck” talk, that I could almost vomit.

You say, Francoeur hit into “bad luck” on the last out of the game.

I say good pitch, good location, poor swing, and pretty good defensive positioning, followed by a damn fine running catch.

If this team is RELYING on “good luck” or plays like that to help them win games, they’re gonna be waiting a while.

Unless they play the Reds anytime soon and get 4 un-earned runs handed to them.

I stand by what I’ve stated for 2 years now.

3 HOF pitchers, backed by REALLY good defensive players, and fronted by one of the BEST scouting departments lead to more wins than LUCK ever did in the 90’s and early 2000’s.

Again. No offense. I’m just not buying the luck argument. Like Braveheart stated….“205-202 in the last 407 games.”

If we’re THAT unlucky, it’s time to blow the thing up and start over.

Period.

By Overlord

May 10, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

I wish to know if someone still thinks JAMES is a better option for us than BENNETT???

Even after last nights game, I still think Bennett is far better than James. Bobby should let him start.

Is there somebody on this blog that when Chucks turn to pitch arrives feels any confidence? Personally every time Chucks turn arrives, I just know we are gonna lose.

When Bennett gets to the mount (relieve or starting) I always get the feeling we can win.

There has been 100000 excuses about Chuck James failures. Enough is enough. Hurt? Flu? Arm? Confidence? Inmature? whatever it is, I dont really care anymore, he is just costing us to many loses and we dont need that.

Send James to the bullpen and let Bennett start every 5th game as 4th starter, Im pretty sure he will give us a better chance to win than Chuck.

James could even do a good bullpen job.

I suppose Cox also got tired of KJ and Infante is going to give KJ some headaches. This is the same situation as Blanco/Diaz. If plan A is not good enough and plan B is performing very well, you cant bench your B player. Infante should play at least 50% of the games in 2B from now on until KJ shows the braves the jobs is his.

1-4 against pirates in 2008……PATHETIC

By Fred

May 10, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

Braves are pathetic. Can only beat up on last place teams (except the Pirates)

By Stuart

May 10, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

This bunch is one big right handed bat short. They are also one starter short of being a contender.

Saying that however, the braves should have won last night, but failed once again to get runners over and it led to a killer DP. Had KJ got that bunt down, that would have brought the IF in and that shot Yunnel hit would have probably gotten through.

I did not see the game tonight, it is my wife’s birthday, but when the bottom five of your order only have one hit, there is going to be run scoring issues.

The offense has been a huge disappointment. This team was supposed to bash people into submission, but the only people they bash is their own fans and their hopes.

As bad some of the rotation has been, the biggest issue has been the lack of consistent offense. They are painful to watch.

By Overlord

May 10, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this

Coach ( Braves In 2008 to the playoffs) does your 1050pm post means you would give the starting job to Bennett instead of James???

I just posted the same thing a minute ago…… wonder if you agree with me?

By JimD

May 10, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

Coach, not arguing with your stats. But you are so stinkin’ set on your opinion you are unable to understand what someone else is simply saying. Jeff Bennett pitched Tues, Thursday (a whopping 1.2 innings) and Friday. HE COULD NOT HAVE STARTED TONIGHT!!!!!!!

By N8

May 10, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

Coach

My gut says that Bennett wouldn’t be any better than Chuck if given the job. He seems to thrive on coming in on short notice (like the Hampton start).

But then again. VERY hard to argue with the numbers you posted.

I’ll assume that Bobby’s “book” doesn’t have a page in it with THOSE numbers. Either that, or Chuck James’ family is in charge of handing that book to Bobby, and have ripped that page out. LOL!

By BravesFanChris23

May 10, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this

N8

I do see where you’re coming from, don’t get me wrong. A lot of the bad stuff can definitely be blamed the stuff you mentioned. I have never and won’t dispute that. However, it doesn’t discredit the opinion/view/thought that luck (good or bad) has some say in games as well.

The base running blunders of course isn’t a case of bad luck. The lack of patient hitting isn’t bad luck. Other stuff like that you mentioned, isn’t bad luck. However, it doesn’t mean that bad luck hasn’t played into it at all. The two bad calls by the umpires were bad luck for Braves. The hits like Norton and the one Sanchez caught were just a case of bad luck of the Braves hitters. I am in no way shape or form discrediting Pirates defense, because honestly, they’ve played well.

However, had a little good fortune/luck went into those hits Norton would’ve had base hit, Sanchez wouldn’t have caught it and so forth. There was nothing wrong with the swings of Norton and the one who almost got that hit that Sanchez caught. You can say got jammed because of the pitcher all you want, albeit maybe true, the point is, it was hit good enough to be a hit, but was robbed of the hits.

I can understand you being tired of hearing “luck” when talking about the good or bad of the team, but just because you’re sick of it, doesn’t mean they didn’t play apart of it, because it did. Like I said, I’m not chalking everything up in the past two games to bad luck, but blaming everything on Braves, when some of the stuff was a result of bad luck, is wrong.

Face it, baseball is a matter of skill and luck. Yes, Braves have shown lack of skill and it has cost them, but luck has also had a part in their success/failure.

I’m not being overly optimistic or “Its OK, We’ll Get Em Next Time” or naive, I’m viewing it on the fence. Calling it as it occurred in how I see it happening. I’m not saying I’m right nor wrong, I am just giving my thoughts on how I feel it happened.

Once more on the luck issue, you’re right, not everything is based on luck. They’re either doing good skill wise or they are doing bad skill wise. However, to say luck has nothing to do with success or failure, then that’s being blind.

Take the final game against Padres for example. Luck had a lot to do with them winning. Same as their failures on the road thus far (going back to the beginning of the season). I am not saying all their failures are a product of bad luck, because they have been inept on a lot of things, but bad luck has indeed been attributed in some of their failures just as much as their success.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

Braves are pathetic. Can only beat up on last place teams (except the Pirates)Fred

Actually, that’s not the case. At all. But sounds good — right, Fred?

Disregard these facts, then: Braves are 1-4 vs. Pittsburgh, 0-3 vs. Colorado, and 3-5 vs. Washington.

Meanwhile, Braves are 3-0 vs. Dodgers (who are 19-17 overall), 3-2 vs. Mets (who are 18-16 overall).

Pittsburgh is 4-1 vs. Braves, and 13-18 vs. everyone else.

Colorado is 3-0 vs. Braves, and 12-22 vs. everyone else.

Washington is 5-3 vs. Braves, and 10-19 vs. everyone else.

By Supes

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

For the love of baseball…the only reason Chuck James still has a job in baseball is b/c he is left handed pitcher! That’s it. The guy has 2 pitches, his fastball is straight as an arrow and he refuses to pitch inside, or misses the targe when B-Mac sets up inside.

He doesn’t have the stuff to just pitch on the outer half of the plate 3 times through a major league lineup.

Coach you are right on. Jeff Bennett should be starting in James spot, and James should be in the pen. I realize you’d have to wait a few days to get Bennett back into the rotation, but they can do it if they wanted to.

Again, Bobby Cox is too darn stubborn and loyal to his player, in this case Chuck James, who should not be starting!

Anyone wishes the Braves had traded Chuck James to Tampa Bay when they had a chance 2 years ago and possibly acquired a leadoff hitter from the Rays? Yeah, I thought so!

Mets fans…Your team isn’t doing all that great. I’d be more worried about that than what the Braves are doing, or not doing in this case.

By David O'Brien

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

Braveheart, hilarious (and on-the-money) reference to Friday Night LIghts in your 10:17 post.

By Kentavo

May 10, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this

D.O.B., serious question: why can’t the Braves bunt? My suspicion is that they don’t practice it and aren’t required to practice it. My suspicion is that Cox thinks they should already know how to bunt because they are major leaguers. Anyone want to chime in?

By Overlord

May 10, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this

Kentavo I wouldnt say they dont practice it….. they just work as hard in it as if it was an important part of their game……..just my perception, nothing else.

By scott boras

May 11, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

braves are facing some strange stats this years..all around numbers are wierd

By nelson

May 11, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this

braves lost again ?? amazing , incredible !! vs pirates ? lmao braves !! what is a braves payroll? 95 millions ? 90 ? and lose vs sht.. teams? cox is time to go !!

cmon u you really love the braves , go away cox , bye bye ur time is over

By BravesFanChris23

May 11, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this

N8

I think you’re one hell of a smart fan and I like discussing baseball with you, but before it drags on, let’s agree to disagree about the luck issue. This maybe posted before you respond to my other or after, but I just want to put the issue to rest.

As far as Braves go, if they can turn it around in the next 5 games, they should be fine.

By BravesRule

May 11, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this

I want all you James’ lovers out there to explain to me again what a fine major league pitcher he is. The dude sucks. He is too lazy to follow through enough to keep his pitches down in the zone and will continue to get knocked around as a fly ball pitcher. He’s too stupid to pick up another pitch, and those mechanics are an arm injury just waiting to happen. So he got 9 Ks. big dam deal;he walked 4 and gave up 6 hits, three for extra bases and couldn’t hold a first inning lead. The guy is a AAAA pitcher. Trade his sorry azz off as quick as possible. Somebody in the minors has got to be able to give up 5 runs in 5 or six innings.

By N8

May 11, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this

JimD

I don’t wanna speak for Coach (he does just fine by himself), but could it be that he disagrees with James starting and wishes it to be Bennett. Thus, in his mind, it should have been Chuck pitching in relief, therefore (the Iraq ), James would have been the one that pitched 3 days this week.

I think (hope) that Coach is intelligent enough to GET that Bennett was physically unable to start tonight.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean that he still can’t THINK that their roles should be reversed.

BravesFanChris23

Fair enough, on agreeing to disagree.

However, I may feel compelled to spew my same arguments at any other bloggers wishing to discuss it. LOL!

I’m not totally against luck, meaning I do believe in it.

But not over a 400 (or so) game stretch. It’s that simple.

Kentavo

“My suspicion is that Cox thinks they should already know how to bunt because they are major leaguers.”

That could be the case. I often ask the same thing.

It also could be that for 10 years we were PHENOMENAL at bunting. When asked to do so, we rarely failed to do so. That included EVERYBODY from Gant to the 5th starter.

So maybe we were spoiled.

Ever notice how Smoltz seems to always get a bunt down, when asked?

Let’s not discredit the 3 HOF pitchers for “helping themselves” on a nightly basis throughout the 90’s (and since then), along with playing stellar defense (including flawlessly getting to the bag on grounders to the 1B).

Little things go a long way.

It’s like they’ve always said about an umpire…..

You don’t notice them until they make a mistake. Bunts are the same way. You take them for granted, until somebody can’t get one down in a crucial spot.

By No More Bobby

May 11, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this

For the love of God!!! Will Bobby Cox please walk away from the Braves!!! There is no excuse for losing to the Pirates and nationals like we do. NEW MANAGER FOR 2009!!! There will be no parade this fall again in Atlanta or ever as long as Bobby runs this team. Even Lasorda knew when to hang it up. You did a lot of this team Bobby but do something now for us and walk away.

By uga-brave

May 11, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this

i play golf with TOMMY GREGG alot, he played a mjor role with this team.

he told me point blank that brian hunter, could not spell cat.

he is now a hitting coach in the royals organization.

he also told me that #7 is full of himseelf.

mark lemke and him run a baseball camp.

we are doomed with frenchy.

i hope we try to trade him.

sorry all you gwinett fans, macc is good but frenchy blows.

we need a rightfielder that has power.

By THB

May 11, 2008 1:36 AM | Link to this

Guys-Francouer doesn’t suck. He’s just not as good as advertised. Want to know why he doesn’t suck? Because a lot of teams would take him in a heartbeat to be their starting RF’er. That said, I wouldn’t mind letting him go for a younger front rotation starter. I don’t think we should give up on him, but I don’t think he’ll ever be the superstar we thought he would be. We really need another starter, because the truth is that we have starting rotation depth, but the depth is tricky. James, Bennett, and Carlyle are considered depth in the fact that they can fill in for a start if needed to. HOWEVER, they can’t last a whole season. James won’t last a few more starts, largely because he really just not that good, but also because he’s hurt. Bennett is good at spot starting and emergency situations, not sure for the course of the season. Carlyle proved last year he could manage and keep us in games for a while, but not for the entire season. Reyes is still inconsistent as far as I’m concerned, but hasn’t been horrible at all, so he’ll be given another shot. Fact is, we need a mid rotation starter. We have the tools on offense, and they’re doing an alright job. Tex and KJ need to pick it up too, and the pen will be a lot better soon.

By Moby Grape

May 11, 2008 2:51 AM | Link to this

That said, this isn’t working, him at the leadoff spot.

Or I should say, when he’s in a groove, yes, it works. But he’s too streaky a hitter to hold down that spot atop the order, if you ask me (or even if you don’t ask, for that matter).DOB

For the second time in a few games Bobby used another leadoff hitter and that hitter did well again, on base several times. Both of those gamers the Braves scored 2 runs, once in overtime I believe. Johnson leading off is not the only(probably not even the main) problem with this team.

Chipper is really cooling off as is to be expected, especially from the right side. He has looked lost in many at bats over the last three games or so, lunging at bad pitches and popping up a lot. No rap on him it was bound to happen. Unfortunately Yunie is also cooling a little at the same time. Several other players need to step forward and carry the team for awhile and so far nobody is doing so on a regular basis.

By BravesRule

May 11, 2008 3:47 AM | Link to this

“Don’t argue with an idiot. It will confuse others as to who the real idiot is.”N8

I wondered why I was always so confused while reading your posts.

By Bobby's Cox

May 11, 2008 4:01 AM | Link to this

Overlord

Good morning in ATL. I agree with you about James, pretty much like i agree with you on everything else. Send him to the pen and let Bennett start. James always seems to do good the 1st time through the order, so why not make him a bullpen guy? I said this last week too.

Also with that many double plays, why don’t we hit and run? I’ve been a been advocate of the bunt, especially lately with this team. However, with a runner on 2nd with no out and one of the best oppo field hitters on our team up (escobar), why bunt? Let him hit it to right and save the bunt for guys like Frenchy (aka pitchers) or late innings. I can only imagine that Cox had him bunting there because it’s not part of the teams approach to hit the ball to right with a runner on 2nd and 0 out, so Cox wanted to make the safe bet and just throw out the sign. I also said to make these guys bunt on off-days or in BP. Obviously they’re showing a lack of skill in the small ball game as it’s been pretty absent for so long.

By Bobby's Cox

May 11, 2008 4:14 AM | Link to this

Those of you saying that Bennett could not have started tonite are wrong.

True bennett pitched Tue, Thur, Fri….whatever. But, if Bobby planned on starting him earlier in the week like he planned on starting James earlier in the week, then Bennett could’ve gotten ready for Saturday instead of pitching out of the pen all damn week. He should’ve known for 10 days that we needed a 5th starter, ever since Smoltz said he’s going to the pen.

Bennett needs to be our other starter instead of James. James, like a reliever, only has 2 pitches. He struggles the 2nd and 3rd time through the order as hitters adjust to his sneaky, well hidden fastball. He’s better off in the bullpen.

By Bobby's Cox

May 11, 2008 4:18 AM | Link to this

Funny that when the blog is titled, “Time to rest the RF, try a new Leadoff Hitter” that Shaun takes the day off.

I suppose after the weekend when the blog is titled “Braves Blowout Wins Over-Inflate stats, reason to be concerned about Offense?” that Shaun will take that day off too.

By Bobby's Cox

May 11, 2008 4:34 AM | Link to this

As bad some of the rotation has been, the biggest issue has been the lack of consistent offense.

Amen.

Throw all those )(%@#)#$ stats out the window.

By Bobby's Cox

May 11, 2008 4:47 AM | Link to this

This was me 3 days ago - the final game against San Diego…

Eric from MO

Maybe you don’t watch our games or other games around the league and see the difference between our approach at the plate and other teams’ approaches. Every other team in the league would be lighting up Ledezma or making him pitch his A$$ off because they know he’s a reliever.

you wanna bet this team loses the series in Pittsburg after winning 5 straight, facing 2 lefties, and that our pitchers have a problem with Pittsburg’s offense? This team is predictable, but maybe that’s a function of me watching them everyday since ‘90

Too bad he didn’t take me up on that bet, although our pitchers haven’t struggled that much….yet.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 7:11 AM | Link to this

A few of you seem absolutely giddy that “your” Braves (hold on, trying to compose myself after typing that) are struggling as you’d predicted….

Why am I not the least bit surprised? (at your chest thumping and own-back-patting).

It’s like a contest:

“You think you’re bitter? Here’s bitter.”

“Oh, yeah? I’ll see your bitter, and raise you self-righteous indignation. Just get a load of the following sentence….”

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 7:33 AM | Link to this

A tip of the cap to Greg Maddux on win No. 350 last night.

By 30YrBravesFan

May 11, 2008 7:41 AM | Link to this

DB

Excellent Blog totally agree. Frenchy is trying at the plate, but he doesn’t look ready to go for his at bats, and it’s showing. Bobby needs to let him rest. And I thought it was just me watching Escobar get on base consistently at the 2 spot. Do what you said, move him into lead-off and let Kotsay hit behind him. Drop Kelly to 8.

And someone leave James in AAA.

By ole timerbrave

May 11, 2008 7:50 AM | Link to this

DOB, I feel the bitterness, but it wasn’t something that I didn’t expect. I’m used to let downs like this. And yes, I tip my cap to Greg Maddux for his win 350.

By Yars

May 11, 2008 7:50 AM | Link to this

35 games into the season, & we have a platoon at 2 different positions. I’m a little disappointed in KJ. I really thought this was going to be his breakout season. I know Bobby hasn’t flat out stated that there is a platoon at 2B, but when given the opportunity, if Infante keeps playing well when he is starting, how can you not start him if a southpaw is pitching? Looks like I need to find a new 2B for my fantasy team.. now playing: pork & beans by weezer.

By Random

May 11, 2008 7:59 AM | Link to this

DOB: “Braves had leadoff hits in the first, third, fifth and sixth innings, and a leadoff walk in the fourth … and NONE OF THOSE RUNNERS SCORED.”

Wrong about the 1st innining — Chipper scored as Infante’s “proxy”.

That is, if Infante had not led off with a double (making an out instead), Chipper’s fielder’s choice would have been the third out, yielding zero runs in the first rather than two.

A minor quibble, I admit, so DON’T shoot me.

8-).

By Jack

May 11, 2008 8:04 AM | Link to this

DOB, you have great insightful blogs, but you sometimes obliterate the line between commentary and reporting. This blog post is the latest example. Are you going to report about the latest developments for the Brave or are you going to advocate the lineup? Even if you place a true wall between the commentary and reporting — which hasn’t happened hear — it hurts the credibility in your straightforward news stories.

By h_charles

May 11, 2008 8:21 AM | Link to this

DOB — I know you have always defended, until now KJ at leadoff, touting his OBP.

However, the problem has always been greater. KJ isn’t a threat to run. He scares nobody on the basepath.

What I would love to see is how often KJ scores a first inning run (since the first is the only real leadoff inning), compared to the speedsters of the league. My guess is the number is pretty low. Lot’s of other factors there, but you MUST have a distracting runner in the leadoff spot in the post-steroid era. We don’t with KJ.

Which, of course leads to the other Cox quandry — his absolute refusal to press the issue with the hit and run. How many double play grounders do we have to see before we start Escobar with Chipper or Tex up? Take a chance, Bobby. Turn one of those DPs into first and third. We need the runs, desperately. Please.

By Buddy

May 11, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this

COCO CRISP…

I live in Red Sox country and he is off to a good start and the Sox are showcasing him..I have two friends that are Providence Journal sports writers that maintain the Red Sox want to trade himn so that they can play Ellsbury every day.Coco can be had for the right price and if they pick up a chunk of his salary he could solve our leadoff woes, he can throw the leather for us in center or left,and he can steal bases.I am not suggesting we give them our best prospects but I think we should keep Coco on our radar screen.

By TheCutMan

May 11, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this

The team could do with a makeover of sorts because the current strategy of station-to-station baserunning and waiting for someone to strike the big blow to get them plated isn’t working.

I also think the changes needed involve more than shaking up the batting order but, for now, that would be a start.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

Jack, with all due respect: You don’t understand what a “blog” is, do you? Big difference between a blog and news stories. Huge difference.

I’m guessing you’re my age (44) or older, and thus not quite onboard with this whole new concept of blogging, which is entirely different than anything we had previously in my 23 years in the newspaper business.

I wouldn’t write about my music preferences, my travel snafus, a recent episode of “The Office” or my marital status in a news story. Obviously, I wouldn’t. But I will here.

So, again, with all due respect, your concept of the wall between commentary and reporting … well, it’s just not very relevant in this blog format.

And yes, that line you referred to is obliterated here frequently. That’s quite obvious.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this

Jack, here’s a couple of definitions for “Blog” that I found online, that might better explain what I mean.

And by the way, at the risk of sounding full of myself: this blog has been far more successful than we ever imagined, in terms of number of comments, page hits, level of conversation (most of the time) and every other means we use to measure this stuff.

So, while we thank you for your interest and concerns, we assure you we’re not going to appease you or change it to suit your rather narrow (and, frankly, outdated) concept of what we’re trying to do here.

When I start including the opinions you dislike into my news stories rather than the blog, well, then I’ll agree with your point.

Anyway, those definitions of BLOG that I spoke of:

Blog: Short for “Web log,” a specialized site that allows an individual or group of individuals to share a running log of events and personal insights with online audiences. Blogs with political or current-events themes have grown in popularity and become “soap boxes” for instant mass-audience commentary.

Blog: Web LOG is a journal kept on the Internet. This journal is often updated daily and contains all information that the person maintaining the BLOG (the blogger) wishes to share with the world.

Blog: A blog (short for weblog) is an online journal or diary of an individual’s opinions and latest news that is updated regularly, in chronological order. Many blogs allow visitors to make comments, or “postings” in response to the blogger, or ask questions.

By Savannah Guy

May 11, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this

Blogs with political or current-events themes have grown in popularity and become �soap boxes� for instant mass-audience commentary.

Definition may need updating. Forgot to mention blog as soap opera and mosh pit.

Get good Brave news hear.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

There’s an 80-90 percent chance of rain all afternoon and into the night, folks. Hasn’t started raining yet, but unfortunately the first pitch is four hours from now, and the rain is headed this way.

Anyone watch this Bob Costas special on HBO, about sports and the media? Great program.

By Efrim

May 11, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

When a team looks like world beaters at home, 14-4, and a last place team on the road, 4-13, I’m not sure how one couldn’t b*** and moan.

I’m sure everything will straighten out at some point, but there were a lot of people that didn’t like that the pessimists were still knocking the Braves after winning 6 in a row…..

Gotta win some games on the road before you really get too excited.

And that 14-4 record at home???

How is 11 straight games against the A’s, Mets and D-Backs going to change that record?

I think I will take 3-2 over the next 5 games and 6-5 over that 11 game homestand. That will run our record to 27-24 through 51 games. I’ll take that, and I doubt that we would be anymore than 3 games off the division lead at that point.

Whatever. Go Braves!

By Program Director

May 11, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

Bobby’s Cox,

Shaun rarely picks up a shift on the weekend. He strictly works the 8-4:15 shift on the weekdays.

His boss can’t stop him from blogging at work. His wife, however, has the boy in lockdown at night and on weekends.

By Lew

May 11, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

Hey- Some of us “Old Farts” understand about blogging. Some like Chase (who seems about 16) apparently don’t. Chase needs to understand that when you post something-whether or not you are mentioning having read it somewhere, or if it’s your own commentary, that bloggers will respond to it and comment. If you don’t wish to have others comment on what you post-then don’t post it.

Moby Grape-Dude, glad you noticed that little thing about the Braves losing even when Kelly Johnson, who I’m beginning to think that some consider the worst leadoff hitter in MLB history, lost even when he wasn’t in the lineup and the leadoff hitter got two hits.

This team’;s problem for the last three seasons has been inconsistency and nothing else. When they pitch they can’t hit and when they hit they aren’t pitching worth a damn. Exactly why this is is somewhat mystifying to me. Any ideas? And no, I don’t want to hear about how senile y’all think Bobby Cox is and how he should have retired years ago.

By Mark in PA

May 11, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

SavannahGuy Soap Opera and Mosh Pit—LOL!

By TPM

May 11, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

Everybody ( Steve West 680 AM included ) please stop making excuses for Tom Glavine’s win-loss record. He has started 6 games and has given you 29 innings. That is less than 5 innings a start. You need to pitch 5 innings to get a win.

Bobby tried to get him to back his way into a win last Sunday against the Reds and he could only give you 14 outs and 7 earned runs. He did pitch well Friday Night, but the other starter pitched better and that’s baseball.

He had a great career but he can no longer consistently give you quality starts.

By David-ATL14

May 11, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

DOB

I watched the Costas program.

Very interesting to say the least.

Buzz Bissinger(FNL Fame, book only)about to blow a head gasket.

Very low regard for the “Deadspin” and it’s ilk.

I thought Bissinger was over the top, but he had some valid points IMO, about the lack of accountability for the “deadspin types”.

Wish they(HBO/Costas) would do a follow up.

By N8

May 11, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

Braves Rule

“I wondered why I was always so confused while reading your posts.”

Don’t think for a second, that I didn’t see that comment coming (from somebody), before I hit post.

I “enjoyed” the quote enough to share it with everybody (even if it meant somebody was gonna throw it back in my face).

You’re welcome for setting you up like that. LOL!

By nolie

May 11, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

Anyone watch this Bob Costas special on HBO, about sports and the media? Great program.DOB

I watched it last week. In fact I asked in a post if you had seen it and if so what you thought of Bissinger’s comments about the big media vs the new blog media, since you are involved in both. Very good show

By chase

May 11, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

LEW

I’m 28 years old..I have said nothing else to you…the subject has been dropped for over 24 hours…NOW YOU ARE JUST BEING A JERK

And it is not that you “commented” on what I posted…it is that you ATTACKED me like it was something I invented rather than just passing along info that SOMEONE ELSE said…

Comment that you think THEY are stupid, comment on why you think that, comment on what you think about it…BUT don’t shoot the messenger!

Now Who else would like to see LEW drop something that is over a day old and NOBODY is bringing up BUT HIM?

We are all having conversations about other things and you drag up a dead discussion and insult someone when it is unnecessary….

That all being considered whihch one of us is actually acting like a 16 year old Brat!?

I’ve dropped it…you drop it…and everyone can move on

By Slider29

May 11, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Cash 3 players take note…Trevor Hoffman’s 530th career save was win #350 for Maddux.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Chuck is scheduled to start again in the last game of the Philly series.

Braves plan to start Reyes, Glavine and James in those three games, which will be the second time in a little over a one-week span they’ve started three consecutive lefties (just did it through last night).

Before this, Braves hadn’t started three straight lefties since Glavine, Neagle and Terrell Wade in June 1997.

By Lew

May 11, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

Efrim-Not enjoying your team winning six in a row because you know they are eventually going to lose another game is pretty damn anal, Dude (and I’m just commenting on the syndrome-not you personally).

For crying out loud-if they ARE winning, then enjoy it. When they are NOT then you can b!tch. The problem is that all some here do is b!tch-constantly and at all times- no matter what the Braves happen to be doing at the time. Win six in a row-cut your wrists. Lose six in a row-hang yourself. Whatever. THAT is what makes no sense, not the optimism some of us exhibit.

Being optimistic and enjoying it when your team is on a winning streak is a pretty normal thing for most people and it should be. At worst, this team is mediocre (though I refuse to believe that and never will). Mediocrity may be reason for an amount of frustration, but some here act as if we were fans of the Padres who just lost 17 of 21 or one of the other terrible teams out there who lose much more than they win. We have a winning record at the moment-DESPITE an inordinate amount of injuries. That is reason for optimism in my book. Not too sure what others here have been reading, but it must be pretty depressing. For me, baseball takes me away from the depressing things in life-high gas prices, rampant unemployment, friends or family in the hospital-THOSE are reasons for depression and lack of optimism- NOT that your team hasn’t won as much as you think they should.

Just because some of us choose to think that the Braves have the capabilities to be a dominant club are not stupid or unrealistic. I’m fully aware that Tex hasn’t heated up and that Frenchy could drive a Saint to distraction with his swings at pitches that are in the other batter’s box. I’m well aware that Kelly Johnson could be doing better at leadoff. I’m also aware that the pitching is quite thin right now because of injuries. I’m not blind to our difficulties or needs, I just choose to not get totally bent out of shape about it.

However, I’m also happy that Frank Wren got us the pitching depth he did, because without it, the Braves would not have a winning record right now. I’m also certain he is working tirelessly to find more missing parts as they become available or a deal can be worked out.

I’m also aware that just as Chipper’s torrid streak couldn’t continue, neither can Frenchy’s slump, Tex’s cold start or KJ’s lack of production. I fail to see what a bit of optimism would cost y’all. Probably much less than a gallon of gas. That’s for damn sure.

By N8

May 11, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

TPM

“He has started 6 games and has given you 29 innings. That is less than 5 innings a start. You need to pitch 5 innings to get a win.”

Stop being an azz. While Glavine is no longer the starter he was years ago (I believe HE acknowledged that at his initial Braves presser), he’s better than what we had last year.

Besides, in one of his six starts, he lasted ZERO innings (when he came out with the injury).

So essentially his 29 innings have been in the five other starts.

Only ONCE in those five starts did he fail to go 5 innings, and only TWICE in those 5 starts, did he fail to go 6 innings.

Nice try though.

Believe me, when I say that Tom Glavine is NOT even in the Top 10, of our issues that this team has. But thanks for thinking about us.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

Facing another lefty today: Infante’s at second again, and Blanco’s in center. Miller is catching….

TPM: talk about misleading. You say he’s given 29 innings in six starts. Well, he left one of those with a hamstring injury before his first out.

He’s pitched 29 innings in the five starts in which he didn’t get hurt, which includes the first turn through the rotation when most pitchers (and all Braves) are on pitch limit.

He went 5 in his first start, like others (if they went that far).

In his four healthy starts since he’s gone 6-1/3 innings, 6 innings, 4-2/3 innings, and 7 innings, and gave up two earned runs or fewer in three of those four.

By LivininAL

May 11, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

All sats are hashed an re-hashed which is fine, but the Braves fail at so many things that dont show on paper -moving a runner over, stealing an occasional base, making some attmpet to hold a runner on,execuing a bunt etc. We sometimes wait 3 games for the Big Inning, wile losing 2, then crow about promising offense. Not playing or have we played winning Baseball.

By chase

May 11, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

DOB

Have you heard if the Braves/Wren are even begining the process of looking at any possible trades for another starter?

Any whispers? Words on the street? anything?

I don’t want to see them wait until it’s too late to begin looking…

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

If you guys haven’t ready Simers’ latest column on Andruw, here it is from today’s LA Times:

By Lou Vales

May 11, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

Dear David, No response to my friendly proposition so I’ll go first. I will wager a meal at Ruth Chris’ in Atlanta that Hampton makes no more than 12 starts. He will go about 60 innings which will translate to about $300,000 an inning. AND David, don’t even go near the “bitter or jealous” garbage. Rather it is just an observation about the sheer and utter stupidity of having done a deal with this guy. Maybe the reason you aren’t moved to angst is because you know the guy. Well, that is great, however, the man has still profited from what may be arguably one of the 3 worst deals in sports history—Ryan Leaf off of the top of my head—and it should serve as a constant reminder about PITCHERS getting these kinds of deals. Oh, I forgot about Pavano.

Anyway, how about it?? I say 12 starts??? Want to go for Ruth Chris or not????? If you don’t want to engage in a bit of sportsmanship how about speculating about how many starts Warren Spahn makes??

By chase

May 11, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this

I hate to say this but I agree with LEW

some faithfull bloggers are so gloom and doom pessimistic that it is beyond reason…

For some on here it wouldn’t matter if the Braves reeled off 15 straight wins because they’d be saying “Sure 15 straight but we are gonna lose 4 or 5 straight somewhere along the line”

There must be no joy in a life outlook like that…

Those people are even worse than the Bi-Polar fans that are happy as can be when the Braves win a game and are on here spewing venom and ready to pack in the season and kill themselves when they lose a couple

It is Baseball…Even if you win 92 games (that is a good season) BUT it means you lost roughly 43 Percent of the time…. That is basically going 5.7-4.3 in every 10 games!

Relax…you can’t win every game or even every series, you are going to sweep and get swept occasionally, you are going to have hot and cold streaks…That’s just how it is in BB

By bruce

May 11, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this

looks like the weather is going to give the Braves a break today like it did back in Denver when we needed it even more than it seems we do right now… maybe play two starting late afternoon Monday if weather.com hourly forecast for tomorrow plays out…. Happy Mother’s Day out there

By Overlord

May 11, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

Chuck James starting against the phillies? What a joke. Is there anybody more OBSTINATE than Cox in the whole baseball world? He thinks Chuck will just wake up some day and will turn into Santana or a Young Glavine. Even my dog knows that aint happening anytime in the near future. Cox, you are a MF.

As for the hit & run, if there is a team in baseball in baseball that should be doing that, it is the Braves….. lowest strike out total in the majors.

By N8

May 11, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

DOB

Is that Simers column for real? My, how the mighty has fallen, huh?

I wonder if Andruw wishes that he had “settled” for 10 million or so to stay in Atlanta? Even if…..THANK GOD he didn’t. LOL!

Wow. That’s too bad. But you know what. That’s what you get when you leave your comfort zone. Add to that, it appears that the Braves fans (and Bobby), have a little more tolerance with under-achievers than everybody else, huh?

Like I said, that’s too bad. I don’t dislike Andruw the person, but it really seems like the pressure is getting to him, big time.

I’m gonna go out on a limb and say it gets worse, before it gets better.

I’m also gonna go out on a limb and say that if he becomes a distraction (like it looks like he’s WELL on his way to becoming), I wouldn’t be shocked if the Dodgers just eat that contract after this year (or even mid-season, if they think HE is the reason they’re not gelling and winning), and save face with the fans.

Yikes.

By mr baseball

May 11, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

Reading some of the comments about Chuck James on this blog is a lot like listening to Keith Olbermann’s hand-picked list of single-minded political analysts trash Hillary Clinton on a nightly basis.

I don’t think anyone who commented about last night’s game had anything remotely resembling a positive remark about the team’s favorite whipping boy. The offense, like it has done in about half the games this season, fails to produce, but most of the negativity is focused on Chucky.

Over the last 2 seasons, James is 22-14 with an ERA barely over 4.00. He has allowed fewer hits than innings pitched and has a respectable strikeout-to-walk ratio. Admittedly, he is a 5-6 inning pitcher, but exactly how many bottom of the rotation starters in the majors consistently go 7 innings? The answer is pretty close to zero, but perspective is about as prevalent on here as is “fair and balanced” political coverage on Fox.

James is a 2-pitch pitcher. So what? It would be nice if he added an effective third pitch, but he has done fairly well without one. A whole lot better, in fact, than most pitchers on other teams of similar experience, salary level and spot in the rotation.

As usual, part of Chucky’s problems last night were not of his doing. Mainly, the manager’s consistent inability to recognize at what point he needs to come out of the game. As he did for the second night in a row, Cox left his starter in one batter too long, and his flawed decision making helped result in another loss.

James has started 4 games so far this season. He pitched badly once (a game he probably should not have started), respectably twice and pretty well once. The Braves are 2-2 in his starts, perfectly acceptable for a bottom of the rotation starter.

The fact that a whole lot of you don’t like how he pitches is glaringly evident, but doesn’t say much about the depth of baseball insight that permeates this blog. All of you who really and truly think James has no business being in the Braves’ rotation and think the organization has better options at the moment need to take a close look at his numbers over the last 2 years, and not get so bent out of shape of how he pitches in one start, especially when that start wasn’t all that bad.

And for all those who demanded Kelly Johnson be removed from the leadoff spot in the batting order, things certainly improved offensively with him on the bench yesterday, didn’t they?

By chase

May 11, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

Simers is a digusting excuse for a journalist

What he is doing is delighting in someone else’s misfortunes that doesn’t have the same forum as him to defend himself…

If this guy were constantly attacking you in the paper and calling you names (VERY UNPROFESSIONAL) why would you have anything to say to him and why would you care what he says?

AJ doesn’t fit in out there and that is alot of his problem…

There was not the same pressure here and even when he struggled he had support of his longtime teammates and coach and therby stayed in the lineup enough to get at least resonably good power/rbi numbers….

And being called TUBBO by a guy who is about 80 pounds overweight himself is sort of an oxymoron

By now maybe AJ figures if this continues the Dodgers will eat about 80% of his salary and trade him back to ATLANTA….that may not be that far fetched either

And if being heavy stopped you from hitting for power….how did Babe Ruth hit sooo many dang HRs?

By chase

May 11, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

Would anyone be willing to take AJ back if you only had to pay lets say 4-6 million of his salary the next 2 seasons?

By N8

May 11, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

chase

For two days, I’ve stayed out of the b!tch-slapping fit between you and Lew.

But your comments about Andruw just fricking kill me.

“AJ doesn’t fit in out there and that is alot of his problem…”

Strange. You’d think he life-partner….er….agent Boras would have clued his client in on that, since Boras FRICKING LIVES OUT THAT WAY, huh?

Andruw made his bed (by signing there), let him sleep in it.

“There was not the same pressure here and even when he struggled he had support of his longtime teammates and coach and therby stayed in the lineup enough to get at least resonably good power/rbi numbers….”

No pressure here? Yeah, because after winning the division 14 years in a row, the fans expectations are SO LOW, right?

Just goes to show how much Bobby and the media coddled this guy.

“And being called TUBBO by a guy who is about 80 pounds overweight himself is sort of an oxymoron”

While it is a bit silly, my guess is that Simers isn’t being paid 18.6 million dollars per year to write his columns. Nor is he expected to “carry” his team and play gold-glove defense.

I’m not a very good hitter either. But that doesn’t make me wrong if I say that KJ ain’t getting it done, right?

“And if being heavy stopped you from hitting for power….how did Babe Ruth hit sooo many dang HRs?”

Are you REALLY comparing Andruw’s bat to that of Babe Ruth?

PULEEEEEEZ!

By Dadgum

May 11, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

Just chuckling DOB over the bloggers that actually start to take this blog seriously. Don’t mean any disrespect to your blog my man but much of it has to be taken tongue-in-cheek.

The denizens have great takes (most of them) on the Braves and baseball, music, general topics like BBQ, etc. It is a place where we can come to open up a little and get the “inside” scoop on our beloved Braves. Unfortunately I don’t have the time to blog as often as the last few years but I enjoy the great cyber roundtable you have been so adept at constructing. But again I take it on the light side and appreciate the stats and insider views. Thank you.

Now as for KJ, as you know I have been a proponent to remove him from the lineup and keep him as a bench utility player or trade him. Nothing has changed. I am of the belief that infielders are groomed in high school and AAU travel teams. Since there are so many phenomenal middle infielders around I just don’t see why a great organization like the Braves would try and convert a natural outfielder into a 2nd baseman.

Anyway just my take and yes I do like KJ…nothing against the man. Streaky hitters are great at turning it around and I just think he would best help this team coming off the bench.

Rock on…wondering what ever happened to BravoNam.

By Lew

May 11, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

Not too sure why we would want Andruw back even if LA ate his entire salary. He’s doing exactly what he did that made us dump him-NOTHING of significance. Right now, we actually have defense and production from our center fielder. With Andruw? Maybe the defense.

By N8

May 11, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

chase

“And if being heavy stopped you from hitting for power….how did Babe Ruth hit sooo many dang HRs?”

NO. NO. NO. NO.

That’s two much money for a guy that can’t get a crucial PH off the bench. And certainly too much money for a late inning defense replacement.

My guess is the Braves would have KEPT him for that. But hopefully Wren has moved on, and wouldn’t think about bringing him back UNLESS they gave us a good pitcher as well to take him off their hands.

Been there, done that. Don’t want him.

By Lou Vales

May 11, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

Are the strip clubs that much better in Atlanta than they are in LA???? Everyone should get the dish to hear Vin talk about Andruw. Although Jones does go on the field to play and albeit not very well, there is something to be said for participation. They even give awards for it in Youth Soccer. Kind of like having banners strung along the facade(Good Word) of the upper deck for winning divisions. Remember!!! You Play To Win The World Series!!! That Is What Constitutes Dynasties, and not beating out the Marlins, Mets, Phillies and Expos for a prolonged period of time. Hell, Davidson wins the Southern Conference every year, hear them called a dynasty across the land??

By Lance B

May 11, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

DOB, don’t create headlines that start with Drop KJ. People will start jumping on the cut Kelly bandwagon

By Ron_Paul

May 11, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

DOB

If you want a true Primanti Bros. sandwich, the ballpark just doesn’t cut it…go to the one down in Oakland…or the first one, which I hear is a dive (not sure where that one is). The ballpark Primanti’s just doesn’t do a good job, IMO.

I was at the game last night…any reason why Bobby didn’t bring in whoever the RH was that was warming up in the pen, to face Paulino? Just curious…to me, it was obvious that Chuck was at the end of his rope, by that point.

Will be at the game on Monday too, will you still be at the park?

By Savannah Guy

May 11, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

No response to my friendly proposition so I’ll go first. I will wager a meal at Ruth Chris’ in Atlanta that Hampton makes no more than 12 starts.

Not that good of a bet Lou. Hampton will only have half a season by the time he comes back… if he comes back. Make the bet 12 appearances (can be pen) or 6 starts and I’ll see your Ruth’s Chris and raise you a bone-in ribeye with all the sides at Rathbun’s Steak House.

Given all the givens, that’s a more fair bet. Hey, if you’re scared, just say scared.

By Dylan

May 11, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

T.J. Simers took it to Andruw in that interview… How times have changed for ‘Superman.’ Do you think the Dodgers will release him? Especially if his attitude about the situation keeps getting more and more nonchalant… I know he is owed a lot of money but they have better outfielders who are doing well riding the bench. How is this the guy we loved? Remember when Chipper got hurt a couple years back and Andruw put us on his back and almost beat Pujols for an MVP. GEEZ! What changed DOB? Is he older than he says he is? What are his old teammates saying about him? Besides he’ll turn it around etc. or shall I saying pulling a ‘Cox’ haha

By chase

May 11, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

Efrim

I don’t care what someone’s job is..If they are really fat they shouldn’t make fun of someone else for being fat…. (You know the whole people in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones thing)

And I don’t think you complaining about KJ’s hitting is the same thing as what SIMERS is doing….SIMERS is making the attack PERSONAL..that is my biggest problem with it

And there is NO WAY you can say that the fans/city here in ATL put the same kind of pressure on AJ that LA does…

He had built up enough goodwill here to carry him through most of his struggles without being blasted constantly

And if he came back here via trade for 4-6 mil…I think he’d go back to center full time and Kotsay would platoon with Diaz which would make your bench a whole lot better to….

I don’t know if it is likely to happen or even if I want it to…I was just tossing it out there for discussion purposes you’re right about it being HIS/and Boras’ own fault for going out there

By Savannah Guy

May 11, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Lance I’d like to see us drop KJ in the lineup and keep him there until we can trade him along with a package of others for SP. Now, where did I get that idea anyway? Headline influenced or just watching him for too long. Oh, well… it’s true. Sorry. He’d make a nice first baseman or left fielder for someone else. Bat him in the 7 or 8 spot, platoon him or utility. Kelly’s career may just be saved by a move.

AJ back to Atlanta with LA picking up most of his salary? In a word, no. In a few more words, only if he dropped 30 pounds, went home to Curacao to find his lost dream, began seeing a therapist and began to take batting instruction.

So, to repeat… no way. Andruw has not demonstrated the motivation to do those kind of things. Witnessing AJ’s slide should give us all more appreciation for the great players that, even after getting very rich contracts and living in mansions, they continue to be self motivated, competitive and physically fit.

By Lou Vales

May 11, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

Dear Savannah Guy, Since the Braves beat writer seems to be acutely aware of Little Mikey’s limitations, how about 9 starts?? I’m aware that this is a “contract year”—ROTFLMAO—for Michael so he may make some relief appearances at the end to justify his “endurance”—ROTFLMAO—for next year. Because you know he will walk on the Braves even after being paid exhorbitant amount of money for nothing.

So 9 starts would project—does he make 15 a year?—-1.75 mil per start, assuming 6 innings each start that would be around 100,000 an out!!!!!! You do realize this is more than Cancer researchers make in a year????

So I’ll go with 9 starts. Is that good?? It sounds like I can trust you, and to prove you can trust me log on to a computer around 9:20 Wednesday morning, go to WCCPFM.com, I’ll be the first caller and you can hear me reference our wager. Of course by my personality you can tell I’m Sweet Lou on the radio.

By keylargo

May 11, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Dadgum

KJ came up as a SS. He was converted to an outfielder to make the major league roster in 05.

By AMG

May 11, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

Just read the LA article on Andruw … Ouch!!

Chuck James starting in Philly? That is a great place for a fly-ball pitcher. Anyone care to bet on how many homeruns he gives up? I’ll start the bidding at four.

By Left Field

May 11, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball,Hillary can throw a far better curveball than CJ.

By Braveheart

May 11, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

205-202 in the last 407.

181-178 in the last 2+ years

79-83 in the last 162 games

Consecutive third place finishes

Not alot of reason for optimism.

By Overlord

May 11, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

AMG 3 seems like a better number to me. Cox will be going nuts when that arrives, he wont be that patient to watch 4 go over the fence. But he will if he tries to let chuck pitch 5 innings.

By Savannah Guy

May 11, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

Lou Vales, I made my bet… Hampton makes 6 starts and/or a combined 12 appearances either starting or coming in from the pen. Take that bet and I’m in. Our very own esteemed Lew Hartman, Wurlitzer artist extraordinaire, knows me and will vouch for me and my bet.

Take that wager and I’ll enjoy a big fat bone-in ribeye at Rathbun’s, the best steak house in Atlanta. I will thank you for a fine dinner. I’ll even raise a glass of a nice cab to Sweet Radio Lou, since you’ll be paying for it by phone as a gift certificate.

By TexasBrave

May 11, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball no one saying that Chucky can’t cut it. All we are saying is that there are better options than his two pitches that most teams have either already figured out or do so by the second at bat. Now since Bennett had been used a lot lately that meant that James (although I would have argued a little for Campillo to start) was the best option for last night. However, with the next start in Phillie we have a chance to not pitch Bennett and give him that start. Not going to happen but I would much rather Bennett pitch in that band box of a stadium than Chucky. He should have been left down in the minors to keep working on developing a third pitch.

Did our offense fail last night, yes, but that does not excuse the fact that he still gave up 5 runs in 6 innings which is not a quality start and Pittsburgh did not have two of their better hitters in the line up. The shine has worn off and everybody knows what to expect. He will not be able to duplicate what he has done in the past if he does not come up with at least one more pitch and he is not going to learn that while pitching with the big club.

And as for KJ being out of the line up. Correct me if I am wrong but Infante did pick up 3 hits last night including a double and played some pretty good defense. Don’t get me wrong I still want to see Kelly in the line up but, I would have just moved him down in the order and had someone else lead off. I too hope this is not the start of a platoon, however, if Infante keeps doing what he did last night it would be hard to keep him out of the line up.

By Random

May 11, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

So if Texeira were Comnmissioner of Baseball, he would shorten Spring Training by 10 or 15 ganes?

Why? So he can extend his infamous slow starts even further into May and maybe June? HE oughta be reporting with the pitchers and catchers, if you ask me. Maybe earlier — get all the siht out of his system before opening day.

If Texeira keeps hitting like a girl, maybe we should call him “Tish”.

(I still love his glove, though!!!)

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

Smoltz threw on flat ground, 25 throws, felt good. No pain. He’ll throw again on flat ground tomorrow, then take a day off.

Bobby thinks in a few days, they might “turn him loose” in bullpen. Smoltz said he still views sometime in May as his realistic target for return to Braves….

Rain is on the way. Too bad we can’t play right now, because it’s not been raining for past hour. But it’s about to start. Gonna be a long day at the ‘yard, I’m afraid….

OK, gonna eat my Primanti Brothers sandwich now…

Oh, and Soriano is throwing a bullpen session as I type this. Won’t be able to get him afterward, since clubhouse is already closed (it’s less than hour before scheduled game time)

By Overlord

May 11, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

I wouldnt take AJ back in atlanta even if he pays the braves……..

Only way I would take him would be if they created a DESIGNATED FIELDER rule for the NL. Meaning somebody else could hit for him all his ABs.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

Soriano, on his way into clubhouse, briefly paused and said his elbow was still a little sore but felt better than before. Threw 10 minutes in ‘pen…

By the way, Braves made it official today about the Hanson promotion to Double-A.

By Overlord

May 11, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

Braveheart yes there is room for optimism, Chuck is the rotation and KJ is leading off and at 2B.

By nolie

May 11, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

Reading some of the comments about Chuck James on this blog is a lot like listening to Keith Olbermann’s hand-picked list of single-minded political analysts trash Hillary Clinton on a nightly basis.MrBaseball

I don’t really have an axe to grind against James except that I don’t like his delivery and that he has only 2 pitches. Having said that, I am starting to lose what regard I had for him. It is alright to quote his stats over his major league career, but for the most part they were good early b4 the league had a read on him and not so good after that. I think if you go to BaseballReference.com and look at the game logs for the last dozen starts or so you might see what most of the psters are irritated about. Combine those with his seemingly lackadaisical attitude and it’s easy to get irritated at him.

By Random

May 11, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

Lou Vales: “Rather it is just an observation about the sheer and utter stupidity of having done a deal with this guy.”

You’re referring to the Rockies’ deal with Hampton, of course? (Right, Shaun?)

PS: Ruth’s Chris — sheesh.

By Savannah Guy

May 11, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

Smoltz threw on flat ground, 25 throws, felt good. No pain. He’ll throw again on flat ground tomorrow, then take a day off.

That must be a special conditioning program, throwing from his back and all. Good for the abs too.

When will he start throwing while standing?

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

So 9 starts would project—does he make 15 a year?—-1.75 mil per start, assuming 6 innings each start that would be around 100,000 an out!!!!!! You do realize this is more than Cancer researchers make in a year????Lou Vales

I’ll assume you know what cancer researchers make, and not contest your statement.

But so what? Is there a point, one that’s not been made by 17 million other folks for at least the past few decades?

The worst NBA player on a roster makes more than three firefighters combined, or five or six schoolteachers combined.

And a top movie actor can make $15-20 mill for six months (or less, sometimes) of work on a picture.

And the president of the U.S. makes about what a major league rookie makes (whether the president is good or bad, and whether the rookie is good or bad).

On and on, blather blather blather. So we’ve established there is no justice when it comes to salaries.

Next, please. Because that’s borrrrring….

By murphy

May 11, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

Does McCann REALLY need another day off? Corky is just such a downer in the line-up.
(hopefully some reverse psychology will work???)

By bravesfan

May 11, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

DOB, is it a platoon with Kelly Johnson and Infante or is Bobby just trying to get Infante some AB’s?

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

Chase, I haven’t heard anyone but you propose the Braves try to bring back Andruw and platoon Kotsay. That’s a sound move any way you slice it (he says, falling off his chair and wondering if the reader actually bases anything on, well, current or recent performance).

By McFann

May 11, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

Miller is starting AGAIN? The dude just had a start. My gosh! It’s only May…Why have we got that going all of the sudden?

Man…McCann didn’t start on Mother’s Day last year, either. Thought maybe he would this year and wear the pink chest protector…

By joebrave

May 11, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Please put Chuck james out to Pasture!!1When Does Mikey Hampton get back??? Oh yeah He’s tutoring Soriano!!!

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy, was the 12:48 post a stab at humor, or do you honestly not know that “flat ground” is just a baseball term to differentiate between throwing off the mound and throwing off, well, flat ground? I’m honestly just asking you. If it was the latter, then sorry I assumed you knew the terminology, seeing that it’s common in the baseball vernacular and used frequently in stories on pitchers’ health and rehab, etc.

By Yars

May 11, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

If the Braves don’t see KJ as their everyday 2B anymore, I’m sure there are some teams that would. I can understand Infante starting today after getting 3 hits last night. Will he be starting from now on every time there is a LH pitcher throwing? If KJ had gotten that bunt down in Friday’s game, I wonder if he would have started last nights game.

By joebrave

May 11, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Do The Braves have any other pitchers in the minors NOT NAMED, JAMES?????

By Braveheart

May 11, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

Braveheart yes there is room for optimism, Chuck is the rotation and KJ is leading off and at 2B.

Overlord, that would be a good piece of analysis if the Braves were not 28-21 when Chuck starts and 177-182 when he doesn’t over the last 407 games. Chuck ain’t the problem. Try again.

By jbutler

May 11, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

Not sure what to say about LA Times AJ article…except that he’s laying in his own mess. Tough to watch such a steep decline; especially when outwardly it appears AJ just, well..doesn’t care.

Great new book by John Feinstein chronicling Glavine on the road to 300 last year. Love his writing- always manages to immerse himself in whatever subject he takes on and masters it- hands down.

By Stephen

May 11, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

Is Bobby off his rocker? Does he think Frank Wren brought in Omar Infante to platoon with Kelly Johnson? Ridiculous!

If this continues, I hope Kelly is traded — the guy deserves better than Bobby’s incredible disrespect for his playing abilities.

By chase

May 11, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

DOB

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO…I don’t propose to bring back AJ and platoon KOTSAY…

I said that IF he did come back…that there is a good chance (Knowing how “loyal” COX is) that that could happen

But DEFENSIVELY if you had AJ, KOTSAY, and FRENCHY everyday in the outflield I’m not sure a ball would ever hit the ground……

I think I would like KOTSAY as the everyday #1 or #2 hitter NOW and if AJ were to ever come back I think he should be no higher than a #7 hitter where he is not counted on as much and where 25-30 HRs and a .225-.250 BA is more acceptable…..

Whether he comes back to ATL or not..I see LA eating MOST of his salary and shipping him somewhere..ESPECIALLY while they still are overpaying for PIERRE

By TexasBrave

May 11, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

DOB I am sure Savannah Guy was just trying to liven things up on what has been a downer for the last couple of days.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

It’s raining hard now and we’re officially in rain delay.

Forecast looks so bad, can’t see us playing this. Probably have a decision within an hour, from what I’m told.

They’d try to get in a doubleheader tomorrow if it’s banged today.

By Tomas

May 11, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

Kelly is not in the lineup again today, is this just to rest kelly or is it to platoon kelly and omar infante who has been hot in his rehab stints and in the majors. Also I read Frenchy has no plans to rest, but he will be willing to rest. If his struggles continue, I think Cox needs to rest him.

By chase

May 11, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

Stephen you said:

*Is Bobby off his rocker? Does he think Frank Wren brought in Omar Infante to platoon with Kelly Johnson? Ridiculous!

If this continues, I hope Kelly is traded — the guy deserves better than Bobby’s incredible disrespect for his playing abilities.*

ARE YOU KIDDING ME?????????????

I think KJ is a nice player with some pop and is still learning defensively BUT

He pops out on a TON of ABs, his BA is dropping like a stone, he has NEVER been able to lay a bunt down and he is not even working counts the way he used to…..

Bobby has given him every chance…do you not remember his first season when he started 0-30 and COX kept playing him?

If INFANTE is HOT and KJ is not then why not ride the hot hand?

By TexasBrave

May 11, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

Braveheart I like Chuck to and hope he soon finds a third pitch and or Tommy opens his eyes to the reality of the fairy tail he has been living. He has been effective his first two years getting by with what he has, but no more. I hate to say it but unless changes are made he will never win like he has in the past. He will continue to give up more runs than the offense can score and also be a burden on the pen.

By Chop Chop

May 11, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

Hot damn! Who woulda thunk it?!?!?! It’s the Jeff Francoeur Story on Sport South!!!!!!!!! Yippee!!!!!!!!!!

I’m so sick of that damn thing, denizens.

By joebrave

May 11, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Do The Braves have any other pitchers in the minors NOT NAMED, JAMES?????

By justdoit

May 11, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

hopefuly they even play tomorrow.

By TexasBrave

May 11, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

DOB Man head for shelter if it hasn’t arrived yet it is about to. This is the same system that spawned tornadoes in Oklahoma and Missouri that killed at least 12 people. Its also spinning so the rain at least is going to be a reoccurring theme for the rest of the day.

So find a place to hunker down and enjoy the rest of your day.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave, I was honestly asking Savannah Guy because I couldn’t tell. I wasn’t trying to be a smarta$$. I mean, the way he wrote it, seemed like he was pointing out that I’d written something — “flat ground” — that didn’t make sense.

Oh, well….

Chase, why are you still talking about “if A.J. came back…” as though it were being considered.

I mean, if Furcal, Sheffield and Wainwright came back, Braves would have a helluva team right now. “If” being the operative word.

By Savannah Guy

May 11, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Thanks TexasBrave for the cover and yes indeed David O’Brien, mine was a mere “stab” at humor… perhaps only a slight puncture at that.

Actually David, I thought it was pretty obvious in its intent (going for my own chuckle), but in all fairness, I can see where it could be taken seriously, especially amongst so many, uh… similar but serious questions you get. Maybe a more common, less subtle approach like a Hitchcock shower scene would be easier to catch than a subtle stab at stupid humor.

So, now that’s out of the way, another question:

When Smoltz is throwing from flat ground does he lay on one of those little mechanics carts for mobility or just get dirty and all?

By Overlord

May 11, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

By chase—May 11, 2008 1:23 PM

Y O U A R E R I G H T

By eric the elder

May 11, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

part of Chucky’s problems last night were not of his doing. Mainly, the manager’s consistent inability to recognize at what point he needs to come out of the game.

Gosh, mr baseball, I confess to being unacquainted with that concept. If a pitcher is struggling, it’s the manager’s fault for not pulling him sooner. Hmmm…

Re the Stimes column, I’ve reached the point of feeling sorry for Andruw - - sort of. When a person says, “It’s no big deal” and “I don’t care,” it’s nearly a certainty that it IS a big deal and he DOES care.

The Braves players loved Andruw and were sorry to see him go. I must trust that version more than my own. The inflated salary and inflated gut are the stuff of fans’ outlooks, but at a human level, I see a depressed young man. During fleeting moments of compassion, we should think of that as sad.

By Lou Vales

May 11, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Dear David, With the BIG difference being that all those guys you mentioned at least have done SOMETHING, ANYTHING to justify their presence on a roster, movie set, lab or Oval Office. Whereas Michael Hampton has done zip, nada, zilch for what will soon qualify as years and I view that as a crock, travesty, sham and any other appelation one could muster.

By Braves70

May 11, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Any thoughts on bringing up Francisley Bueno, the Cuban pitcher, from AAA Richmond? He might be a solution to the rotation problems. I also see that Diory Hernandez is doing great at AAA but apparantly is not much of a base stealer.

By Lou Vales

May 11, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Dear David, With the BIG difference being that all those guys you mentioned at least have done SOMETHING, ANYTHING to justify their presence on a roster, movie set, lab or Oval Office. Whereas Michael Hampton has done zip, nada, zilch for what will soon qualify as years and I view that as a crock, travesty, sham and any other appelation one could muster.

By Savannah Guy

May 11, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

Oh, and DOB, thanks for the explanation anyway. Because you took a minute, some new fan somewhere learned that flat mound rehab thing for the first time, so that’s cool. Just like the blog definition you gave earlier.

You’ll find yourself answering many dumb questions over the course of time on this public forum, so keep the good helpful attitude. Sometimes your situation reminds me of what Skip had to endure on his pre-game radio show. It’s a wonder he didn’t snap after a while… but he didn’t. Wish he was still there every day.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Game is about to be cancelled. I’m gonna pack my bag, take my stuff and head back to the hotel to write.

I’ll log on soon as I get there to tell you about pitching plans, and whether Hudson or Jurrjens will pitch the first game of tomorrow’s DH, etc.

By Overlord

May 11, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Right at this moment we are standing at the same place we were last year. Hudson wins, Jair wins, Glavine no wins yet, 4 and 5 are like a who knows what will happen.

By Lew

May 11, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

LouVales-Savannah Guy is a man of his word and he will stand behind any wager he makes.

JoeBrave-Where you been? Kiddies doing all right?

By Savannah Guy

May 11, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

Lou Vales, I’ll just assume you’re afraid to make a fair bet on Hampton’s starts. That’s fine, but man… you gotta quit raggin’ on him. You can’t actually think he hurt himself on purpose or is a “sham” because he doesn’t cure himself and pitch. C’mon… accidents happen.

Besides, what good does it do to run him down anyway? He’s contracted to be on the team until the end of the year. If we release him we pay the same amount.

By nelson

May 11, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

game 3 vs pirates : cancelled ? maybe ? thanks god !! braves cant lose this final game !! aleluya !!!!

By richbrave

May 11, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

DOWN ON THE FARM

DAMIAN MOSS continues to struggle in his attempt to return to the majors. 10 appearances, half starts. 27.0 IP, 27 H, 19 R, 14 ER, 2 HR allowed, 3 HB, 11 BB, 19 SO, 4.67 ERA and 3 ERRORS. For an experienced pitcher like Damian, this must be really frustrating. The opportunity to excel in Atlanta is wide open to him IF he can just get his mojo working correctly.

VLADIMER NUNEZ took a step backward yesterday after two forward in his previous outings. He now has 21.0 IP/23 H, 9 R, 9 ER, 6 BB, 22 SO. Beginning to SLOWLY cut out the fat pitch mistakes which have plagued him occasionally. Throws strikes, as his BB/SO ratio shows.

ANDY SHIBILO has not found his bearings yet in AAA despite being on the rubber in 9 games so far. His 2-10 BB/SO ratio is great, but pitch location at times(like yesterday) is not good. 9.0 IP/14 H. with 6 R, all earned. Has not yet been able to CONSISTENTLY throw strikes for outs.

The two Cuban pitchers, BUENO and NUNEZ flash promise, but are far too inconsistant at this point to be thought of in terms of being Atlanta bound.

No, the cream of the crop are CHARLIE MORTON - 1.76 ERA and PHIL STOCKMAN - 0.84 ERA on the mound and in the bull-pen.

Frankly, I believe the Braves thought BRAYAN PENA would have been involved in a trade for a young arm by now who could step in here and then be ready for a late call-up to Atlanta. Come on guys pry one lose.

By Tomas

May 11, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Last nights game was really frusturating, they hit into like 5 double plays and the bunts were awfull. They had real bud luck, like the ball yunel hit that was turn into a double play.

By LuisGuillermo

May 11, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

Game postponed. Doubleheader tomorrow.

By Braveheart

May 11, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

Which starting pitchers only throw 2 pitches?

Tom Glavine - throws his fastball or changeup 97% of the time.

Jair Jurrjens - throws his fastball or changeup 92% of the time

Chuck James - throws his fastball or changeup 96% of the time

John Maine - throws his fastball or changeup 92% of the time

Oliver Perez - throws his fastball or slider 96% of the time

Chien-Ming Wang - throws his fastball or slider 95% of the time

Kyle Kendrick - throws his fastball or slider 96% of the time

Fausto Carmona - throws his fastball or splitter 91% of the time

By edward

May 11, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

I went to the games on friday and saturday nights. First, we blew the game Friday. Or actually, the umpires helped us blow it. Everytime a Pirate got on base, we got no strikes unless it was down broadway. We should have won!! Then came saturday….. The first inning was beautiful. We had them reeling for a minute. Then the minute was over. Tom G. (not Glavine) was pitching up in the zone and we couldn’t miss, unfortunately we hit them where the fielders couldn’t miss either. I think James was in there a little longer than he should have been, but that is not his fault. On two plays to the outfield I have to admit I did miss Andruw out there. One funny note. Frenchy and Kotsay both shook the hands of the Naval Paratroopers on Friday night which I thought was very classy of them to go and thank them for the show and everything. The funny thing was that Jeff had this goofy smile on his face and he was yapping to the leader for a LONG time. I thought he was trying to finagle his way into doing a dive with them one day!! He looked like a kid with a $10 bill in a candy store! And DOB, you should tell Chipper to get on here every spring if this is how he is going to hit after!! He owes his great start to you and your amazing blog!!! GREAT JOB DOB!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Braveheart

May 11, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

Right at this moment we are standing at the same place we were last year. Hudson wins, Jair wins, Glavine no wins yet, 4 and 5 are like a who knows what will happen.

12-8 when Hudson, Jurrjens, Smoltz start

5-4 when Bennett, JoJo and Chuck start

1-5 when Glavine starts

Glavine has pitched alot better than that but the sad thing is that Glavine’s teams are 1-9 in his last 10 starts.

They had been 42-20 in his prior 62 starts.

It’s cool watching this old school Jim Maloney no hitter from 1965 on the WGN rain delay.

Heyward kind of looks like Billy Williams did back then. Long, lean but strong as heck.

By Tomahawkin' Again (Like it's 1995)

May 11, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Wow, Andruw reads like he has turned into a real turd. Are reading and listening there Tex? Don’t let Boras ruin you too. And, WTF is up with this team on the road? Do we have another jersey combination we can try for road games because the new blue’s and usual gray’s isn’t working.

By rlpmetro

May 11, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy,

It looks like you didn’t get the subtle “hint” DOB gave you after all. Your attempt at humor, however futile it may have been, made no sense. Add to that the fact that it was about as far as you can get from humorous, and it really makes you wonder why you would give it another try. The comment was stupid the first time, and even more stupid the second time.

By Overlord

May 11, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

DOB could you please explain why does Cox has so much faith on James??? Im not trying to be negative here. This is a sincere question I just keep asking myself, youve been in contact with him, and im sure you know whats his thinking, not what he says, but what he really thinks. I would be asking the same for KJ, but I have noticed that Infante was starting for the 2nd game in a row. I didnt see yesterdays game but I think Infante started yesterdays game, so maybe Cox finally is willing to give others some chance to proof themselves.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

Well, the Braves should have a very good chance to win a road game tomorrow, provided they play two. Because the Pirates have made a pitching change, subbing righty John Van Benschoten for lefty Phil Dumatrait against Hudson in the second game (Duke’s still going in first, against Jurrjens — so Braves actually have a good chance to sweep, yes, sweep the DH if they play both games between showers).

Basically the Pirates are taking advantage of opportunity to move back their starters a day so they can throw Dumatrait in series against St. Louis. Kind of sacrificing tomorrow’s second game, as it were.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Overlord, no, I can’t speak for Cox on the matter.

By Braveheart

May 11, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Tony Romo just got booed when he was throwing the first pitch out at Wrigley.

By brent a.

May 11, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

T.J. Simers doesn’t treat Kobe Bryant any better than Andruw Jones, and Bryant is the best player in the NBA.

By TexasBrave

May 11, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

Braveheart I see your point and it is a good one. However, most do have another pitch or good movement to keep the hitters off balance where Chuck does not. Also in the case of Jair and Tommy they usually have good control of their pitches 90% of the time whereas Chuck does not.

Quick question though since you did a lot of leg work on this. If Chuck throws fastball and change up 96% percent of the time, what does he throw the other 4%?

By Braves fan at the UN

May 11, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Thanks for always doing that Richbrave!

Wouldn’t Stockman be better than Resop?

By Savannah Guy

May 11, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

ripmetro Thanks for the heads up, you anonymous little metro-twit. You best go play in a sandbox with your own level. As you may have noticed, David doesn’t “hint” around, he pretty much tells it like it is. When I need your approval on my posts, I’ll ask for it. If he needs your backup I’m sure he’ll let you know. Now, that’s not too subtle of a hint for you is it?

Oh, and it relieves me that my humor made no sense to the likes of you. Thanks, that would have been disappointing. Have a nice day and who knows, you might have an original thought of your own.

By JEB

May 11, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

DOB just a question (or asking your opinion) In the next 2 - 3 weeks the Braves will be adding: John Smoltz, Mike Gonzales, & Soriano. So, who will be cut from the bullpen to make room for these 3? Also, Prado will be coming back, so who will be moved to bring him back in?? Or does Prado still have options left? You may have already answered this and I just missed it. Just checking to see if you have a feel for this or an opinion. Thanks!

By Braveheart

May 11, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

Overlord, do you really think Cox has a ton of faith in Chuck James?

In the last 2 months last year, Cox was clearly fed up with Chuck.

The Braves made sure they traded for Jurrjens

The Braves made sure to clear a spot for Hampton

The Braves signed Glavine

Upon signing Glavine, Wren made it clear Chuck’s job was not secure and there was an open competition for the fifth spot

Chuck has spent more time in the minors than in the majors this year

Chuck has only been called up when injuries to Smoltz, Hampton and Glavine left the Braves with little choice

Chuck was called up before JoJo because JoJo has more confidence issues and JoJo has not provided the same major or minor league results as Chuck

Despite that, it is clear the Braves feel JoJo will be better in the long run than Chuck

Bennett and Campillo have become invaluable in keeping the pen together after the injuries to Moylan, Soriano, Smoltz, Glavine, Hampton and those two starts where Hudson had nothing

If Soriano or Moylan were healthy, and Hampton, Smoltz and Glavine had been more healthy, it is doubtful whether Chuck would be up right now. Bennett and/or Campillo would most likely be getting those starts right now

Charlie Morton is flying high now but has little to no history of maintaining his confidence in the minors. The Braves most likely would love to see him sustain an extended period of success in the minors and/or see how he bounces back from adversity after he has been soaring so high since the middle of last summer.

If Morton can continue his success for an extended period of time and/or demonstrate the ability for the first time in his career to bounce back from adversity, then maybe he will be the one getting all the starts in the second half.

As for now, Bobby’s hands are tied and Chuck is just about the only realistic option. He ain’t perfect but he does have an ERA in the low 4s and his team wins over 55% of his starts. Not a bad poison pill for a manager to swallow when he is left with little alternative choices.

Pitchers with ERAs in the lows 4s with bullpens with ERAs below 4 on teams that score 5 runs a game generally tend to help their team win over 55% of their starts. That’s who Chuck James is.

By StingerSplash

May 11, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

Re: Buddy on Coco Crisp.

Can’t see Crisp coming to the Braves, not with Kotsay — also one of the best defensive outfielders in the biz — here, and Anderson and Schaefer a year (or two) away. Besides, it’s not as if the Red Sox need anything right now. They could have seven starting pitchers available by the All-Star break, if Colon and Schilling continue on their track. Colon hit 97 on the gun in his last Pawtucket outing.

For DOB, a couple of things … Didn’t catch MMJ on SNL. Didn’t know til it was too late. No clip yet on YouTube. Any word, first hand or otherwise, how it was? (Just re-watched the incredibly mesmerizing performance they had on Letterman. As powerful a performance as I’ve ever seen on Letterman from a musical guest, and I even watched his morning show). Also, in celebration of win 350, did Maddux, um, you know, down his own leg for once, instead of someone else’s?

By N8

May 11, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

Anybody watching the Royals and Orioles (don’t ask why I stopped on that game), on Extra Innings?

To start, you GOTTA love the 2008 version of the Royals “powder blues”, Braves should bring them back for a couple of games.

And if you’re watching, you gotta love Dave Trembley’s comments to Jim Joyce (home plate umpire), on that argument that he took over for Mora.

The didn’t have the mic turned down, and you could hear him plain as day saying (with laughter and a sarcastic tone)….“Why you gotta make me come out of the dugout and save my player”

I think with the Extra Innings package, they should ALWAYS leave the microphones up to hear all that crap.

Good stuff indeed.

TexasBrave

Good point on Chuck James’ location playing a factor. I was gonna say the same thing. Add to that, velocity (JJJ) and movement (Tim Hudson)has a bit to do with it too.

Granted Glavine doesn’t have the velocity he used to, and it was never that high to begin with (low 90’s early in his career), but NOBODY is ever gonna confuse Chuck James with Tom Glavine, are they?

Braveheart

While I added to TexasBrave’s point he made to you, I have to agree with him, in that you did a nice job digging up those numbers. Nice find.

But I think while it shows that pitchers CAN survive on mainly throwing only to pitches. It also shows how important command of those two pitches is.

Chuck James makes more mistakes in LOCATION of his pitches, than in pitch selection.

88 MPH fastballs, waist high, fly a LONG way. If he ever pin-points his control and location, thus cutting down on the long-ball, he’ll have a lengthy career.

I’m just not completely sold, that he is capable of doing that.

There have been LH pitchers with better “stuff” than him that have faired much worse, so we’ll see.

By Savannah Guy

May 11, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

Lew, thanks. It appears the Lou Vales/Hampton wager has not been accepted. Too bad, I was looking forward to a free steak dinner.

Joebrave, howdy, long time no see. Are those kids taking care of you and making you behave?

By bravesfan

May 11, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

With the rainout, who does it look like will pitch Friday vs OAK?

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

Van Benchoten hasn’t started since last season, when he went — get this — 0-7 with a 9.61 ERA in nine starts.

By albanian braves fan

May 11, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

is thinking flat ground is type of coffee from starbucks. is cheaper but more mellow than sharp ground. smell good. ahh!

By Braveheart

May 11, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

N8 and TexasBrave, you can go to fangraphs.com to see those pitch selection stats.

Enter the player’s name, click on their season stats and it has all the pitches they throw, how often they throw each pitch and what the average radar readings are for each pitch.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Van B (name too long to keep spelling) is 1-9 with an 8.11 ERA in 14 career starts, and 1-11 with an 8.58 ERA overall in 20 career games.

He was the No. 8 pick in the ‘01 draft, and Pirates drafted him as a pitcher after he’d led the nation in home runs as a hitter in college. Hey, they’re the Pirates.

By Savannah Guy

May 11, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave, your 12:28 was a good’un and I agree with most everything there. I’m afraid I’d be a little less kind and patient than you though. Well, maybe I’d be a combo of kind yet mercenary about what to do with both CJ and KJ.

Chuck would be in AAA this year and another team as soon as a trade can be made that would include him. KJ is more difficult, but I’d trade him along with a package for a starting pitcher deal. Then, I’d suggest he be moved to first base, left field or utility.

Kelly could be a great first sacker when his hitting confidence builds and his inclination to be indecisive fades, if it fades. A trade out of Atlanta and a change of scenery could be very good for KJ’s career.

By StingerSplash

May 11, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

As we have lambasted Francoeur for his recent failings, let’s keep in mind these statistics: Gary Mathews Jr, he of the inexplicably huge contract - .219 Ryan Howard - .169 Robinson Cano - .185 Jose Reyes - .246 Austin Kearns - .208 Carlos Delgado - .234 Travis Hafner - .215 Troy Glaus - .221 Carlos Beltran - .233 Paul Konerko - .226

That’s a whole bunch of stinking it up right there.

By Overlord

May 11, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

OK DOB, I understand your answer.

Braveheart, Glavine has been doing well enough. That braves 1-5 in his outings you cant really blame him. Id say 1 bad outing and the injury outing. The rest you can put on offense´s bill.

By Savannah Guy

May 11, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Albanian, could be starbucks, true. Could also be flat ground burger patty or level playing field too.

So many flat ground choices.

By Braveheart

May 11, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

Texasbrave, the fangraphs.com site says Chuck throws a slider 3.7% of the time. I dunno. Seems like a bit much to me.

I think one problem with that site is that when a pitcher throws two pitches at similar speeds, it is often hard to tell which pitch he is throwing.

Chuck’s changeup and slider are both thrown at 77, 78 mph, so I suspect there are times the ones collecting the data get confused about which one he threw.

Another weakness of that site is that it does not differentiate between fastballs. For example with Jurrjens, he throws two different kinds of fastballs - a four seamer and a two seamer. But they don’t differentiate between the two. So, it’s a bit misleading to say Jair only throws two pitches because he is really throwing three most of the time - two different kinds of fastballs and a changeup. He also throws his slider about 8% of the time which gives Jair 4 pitches.

But anyways, click on the link below and scroll down to the bottom to see which pitches Chuck throws and how fast he throws them

http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=4886&position=P

I can’t believe how cold it looks in Chicago right now on May 11th. Crazy.

By Yars

May 11, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

JEB….interesting to see what roster move is made when Prado comes off the DL. Prado bats RH, as does Infante. Gotay bats LH. Would the Braves rather have one utility fielder that can bat RH, & another that bats LH, or both that bat RH? I do believe that Prado has options left? I won’t be surprised if Gotay is either released, or sent to Richmond. now playing: solo impala by the fashion.

By JEB

May 11, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Van Benchoten hasn’t started since last season, when he went — get this — 0-7 with a 9.61 ERA in nine starts. DOB

So… what are we saying? Automatic Braves win? Or automatice Braves Loss????

By Kev

May 11, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

DOB or anyone…Now that this game was rainout…who will pitch Friday game against the A’s??

By JT

May 11, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

JEB

Now Thanks God Van Benchoten is a righty…..so i think we have a really really good chance to win that game.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

Yes, Prado has options.

No, I have no idea who’ll be sent down when the various relievers return in coming weeks (come on, haven’t we learned it’s folly to try to predict such things? Often these things take care of themselves when someone gets hurt or pitches poorly etc).

No, I don’t know who’s pitching Friday, nor did Cox when we asked him after the rainout was announced. Have to wait and see how guys pitch tomorrow, etc.

If no one has an early exit tomorrow, then they’ll either have to start one of them on short rest anyway, or bring up someone, or go with Bennett. Cox gave no indication and sounded like he hadn’t begun to think about that yet.

We’ve got five games between now and then, and I’ve got travel plans to probably rearrange unless we get two really quick games in tomorrow (currently booked on a night flight to Philly).

By TexasBrave

May 11, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

Braveheart I hope you don’t think that I am questioning your stats. I have been reading and blogging for almost a year now and it is plain to see you do your research. I was just saying for James to be effective in the future he is either going to have to locate better, have better movement or find a third pitch that is effective enough to keep the hitters off balance.

N8 good point about the need for velocity, unfortunately that is not something that Chuck will be able to change.

Braveheart I hope one day you can tell me “I told you so”, but unless change is made his winning more than losing days are behind him.

By Mike

May 11, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

Overlord…I agree. If Bobby has one fault (which is also one of his greatest atributes…esspecially to his players) its that he sticks with guys too long sometimes. I like James, but hes hasnt shown any consistancy. If this team plans on making it to the WS, we are gonna need to pick up another quality pitcher, or hope that we can catch lightning again (JJ) in a rookie.

By Braveheart

May 11, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, Glavine has been doing well enough. That braves 1-5 in his outings you cant really blame him. Id say 1 bad outing and the injury outing. The rest you can put on offense´s bill.

Overlord, I agree that Glavine has been good. Actually, he has been far better than I expected him to be thus far. The 1-5 record when he starts is indeed misleading because of lack of run support. Maybe that’s a reason we all shouldn’t be freaking out too much. If they were 3-3 in Glavine’s starts, they’d be 20-15 right now and on a pace to win over 90 games.

By Yars

May 11, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

savannah guy….I can’t see the Braves trading KJ this season. I think the worst case scenario would be that Bobby has a platoon at 2B with Infante/Prado & KJ. I really hope it’s too early to even consider that. I could be wrong, but I get the feeling KJ not being able to lay down that bunt in Friday’s game kinda p** off Bobby. If you look at KJ’s overall numbers, they’re not horrible, & his defense has been solid recently. now playing: would by alice in chains.

By JEB

May 11, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

Yars interesting thought! I wonder what we have vested in Gotay, since we picked him up off waivers from the Mets? If they put him on the waiver line, I was under the impression that we would have to keep him on our roster. Or did the Mets just cut him??

By N8

May 11, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

Thanks for the link. I guess you didn’t do too much “leg-work”, huh? LOL!

DOB

“Van B (name too long to keep spelling)…”

Bravo, DOB. I too don’t like to use that many key-strokes.

By TJ

May 11, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Bravo, DOB. I too don’t like to use that many key-strokes.

That’s gotta be the line of the week.

By Braveheart

May 11, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave, nah, man, we’re cool. My only problem with you is that you were a vicious bounty hunter last summer who wanted to make a BBQ meal out of the frog legs and pork of Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy.

By TexasBrave

May 11, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy I think my patience with KJ is the fact he has a sweet stroke and a decent eye at the plate. I can’t imagine him continuing to hit like he has. I think he presses to much in the lead off position and that causes him not to do well. Take that pressure off by moving down in the order and we will soon start singing his praises.

As for Chuck I really believe that we have enough pieces that we could have left him down in AAA to work on changes. Bennett should be starting, Campillo has shown he can hold down the long reliever spot and we need to bring up Stockman. The question is what will they do once Smoltz, Soriano and Gonzalez gets back. Will they keep Chuck or send him down? I know none of those guys are starters but it would mean we wouldn’t have to rely on Bennett out of the pen as much.

By chase

May 11, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

I think the great JIMMY BUFFET described EXACTLY the Braves Home vs. Road problems…..

It’s those changes in Latitudes, Changes in Atitudes, nothing remains quite the same…

and if it keeps going this way he’s right…If we can’t laugh we will all go INSANE

By bigchiefrg

May 11, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

We need to get Chuck James completely out of the equation. Those who think he has the ‘stuff’ of a young tommy need to step back and rethink. I hate hearing the goof balls in the booth say that. What makes tommy tommy is the stuff between the ears and I think it is pretty safe to say james doesnt have much there.

Bottom line…If he is in our starting rotation at the end of the year, our win/loss record will not look good and we will be 4th in the division.

By rupert

May 11, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

huddy would go on 3 days rest if asked, rather him do it and go 6 or so than risk jj, kid looks to log a bunch of innings, more than anytime before in his career, not the time to see if he can do that, bowman mentioned morton as a possiblity, the odds of them not using bennet in philly are pretty slim with james and reyes going, one them is bound to go out around the 5th or so, especially james in that park…..

By bravesfan

May 11, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

While the Braves want to give Charlie Morton a chance to continue to develop at the Minor League level, there’s a chance he could be promoted from Triple-A Richmond for a spot start. The 24-year-old right-hander, who is already on the 40-man roster, is 1-0 with a 1.76 ERA in seven appearances (six starts) this season. In his past two starts, he has pitched 14 1/3 innings and allowed just one earned run.

By Lou Vales

May 11, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy, All I want him to do and I’ll never mention him again is to say something along the lines of—“I know i haven’t done anything since I’ve been here and that tears me up, but I promise everybody in Atlanta that if I can pitch again it will be with the Braves. I’m not going to have the audacity to have produced nothing and then walk out on this ownership. I’m busting my butt in rehab and you can be rest assured that with the faith Atlanta has shown me if I pitch next year it’s with the Braves. Don’t even need an agent. I’ve made millions for doing nothing and now I’m giving back”——Savannah, At that point I’ll tip my cap, call him a classy guy and fill the Blogs with accolades. Should I hold my breath??? Or if he goes4-7 with a 4.63era will he be testing the “open market”???

By TexasBrave

May 11, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Braveheart first of all I completely deny the fact I was after said frog or the juicy… uh pig! I was only looking out for our intrepid Fly (sleuth reporter). Have you noticed he has not been around in awhile?

Anyway, dude, have you ever had fried frog legs before? Taste like Chicken. And we all know how juicy a good BBQ pig can be. Oh I can just taste them ribs now. Mmmmmmmmm

By JSS

May 11, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

Any day with a reference to the “Sage” Robert Zimmerman is a great day!!!

Let Francoeur see the career of Andruw Jones as a cautionary tale. The Braves rode him consecutively for years, and guess what, now he’s breaking down…

T.J. Simers is no different than Jeff Schultz.

By MrC

May 11, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

DOB or anyone else who might know. You often write about your travel issues. Question I have and apologize if you have answered it before…How come you don’t travel with the team? Didn’t beat writers used to in the old days? Is that practice completely gone with todays MLB teams? On a related issue, do the Braves charter or own a plane for the team?

By Braveheart

May 11, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

Texas Brave, Kermit sez frog legs ain’t the only thing that taste like chicken. Flies taste like chicken too. As for his wife, there sure is alot of meat on them bones. The meat on her bones should feed an entire baseball team for a week.

By Northern Redneck

May 11, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Chase, God bless you for the quote of the year, from one of, if not THE GREATEST…EVER. Yeah thats right, Jimmy Buffet is better than Hendrix, any Beatle, maybe even Dylan. The man has lived the life of a king, and made some damn good music while doing it. PARROTHEADS FOREVER

By brent a.

May 11, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

Bobby’s Cox

For a guy who lives in LA, you sure don’t know much about the Lakers.

1) It is proven fact that Jerry Buss chose to trade Shaq. He did not want to pay Shaq. Period. Kobe did not run him off. If so desired, the Lakers could’ve easily kept Shaq (he was under contract for another year) and let Bryant walk (he was a free agent in 2004).

2) Kobe was so successful in running of Phil Jackson, that he endorsed his return, and played the best ball of his career upon his return.

3) He did not run off Rudy Tomjanovich. Everybody and their mother, and their mother’s father know that Rudy was burnt out, and not ready to return to coaching.

In fact, even at a time when Kobe was being viciously attacked, the media went out of its way to let everyone know that Tomjanovich’s resignation had nothing to do with Kobe Bryant.

I could debate you on this for the next 100 years, but sadly, I’ve won this argument too many times over the years to even enjoy it anymore.

I did write a paper on portions of it for graduate school 1 1/2 years ago, and got an A on the paper, and an A in the class.

I know this topic like the back of my hand.

Please, Bobby’s Cox, stick to something other than the NBA, because clearly, you’ve only glanced at this topic.

The truth is out there. Find it, or ask questions, but don’t spread lies.

Plus, you’ve called Kobe a rapist. That trash shouldn’t fly on a blog like this. I don’t know all the legal terms, whether it’s slander, libel, or defamation of character, but at a minimum, it’s irresponsible, and immature.

Was Kobe convicted of rape? The answer to that is a firm, “No,” and for you to call him a rapist shows a hatred best served for a visit to your therapist, and not a public forum.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

MrC, Braves fly a Delta charter. And yes, beat writers stopped flying with teams quite a few years ago.

For one thing, simple logistics make it virtually impossible: While we are returning to the pressbox to write our game stories and update any other news on injuries, etc, the team on getaway day is boarding its bus and headed straight to the airport inside of an hour after the game ends.

I’ll let you imagine what that might be like, the team holding its bus while waiting for a beat writer to finish his story.

Secondly, this isn’t like the old days, when writers and players would routinely drink and carouse in the same places together and players trusted the writers to never reveal anything they saw away from the field. So you can imagine how they’d feel about us infringing on their private time in the plane, one of the few places where they can do as they please and not worry about it being leaked to the public, etc.

Finally, newspapers don’t allow acceptance of perks from subjects they cover, or rather they enforce rules that used to be ignored in that regard. They’d have to find out from the team how much the seat on the plane was worth and pay the team a suitable amount, because the paper wouldn’t let a reporter fly free on the team’s dime. And the team probably wouldn’t, either.

It’d end up costing the same or more, probably.

But that last factor really doesn’t matter, because it wouldn’t come to that. Except in an emergency, like after 9/11 when the Braves let the beat writers fly on the plane after commercial air travel was disrupted.

By bigchiefrg

May 11, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

bravo braveheart 5:38…stole the words right out of my mouth

By Tomas

May 11, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

Morton will be called up for fridays game lets see if this big righthander brings it.

By Ed Glennon

May 11, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

I heard a rumor that Tex is going to start wearing number 25 and only swing from the right side.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

By the way, it stopped raining about an hour or two after they banged the game. We could be at least 5-6 innings into it now, and it’s not raining at all. Sun’s poking through clouds. Unbelievable. Seems like it happens every time they call one early.

By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)

May 11, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Dear brent a

I’m guessing the a stands for as$-clown. Everybody knows that not being convicted and not being guilty are 2 different things. Kobe did it all. He forced the Lakers to move Shaq, he did make that “mistake” in Denver, and that “A” you got don’t mean CRAP. It doesn’t mean you know anything.

Now take you Kobe-loving to another place because around here we be talking baseball.

Or music, or politics, or college football, or DOB’s lunch……..where was I??

Oh yeah — but not KOBE !!

By Supes

May 11, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

DOB, what are the chances that Chuck James and Bryan Pena get trade before the deadline for some bullpen help or pitching prospects?

Reason why I’m including James in there, is because it’s apparent he is never going to turn into what the Braves have initially hoped for, that 3rd starter. After his rookie year when he accumulate much of his success (for those like MR BASEBALL giving me career stats on a guy who’s barely in his 3rd year, great job…but that’s not nearly enough “track record” to make James a keeper!) Chuck has struggled at best. He is a small built guy, he can’t overpower hitters and can’t or isn’t willing to pitch inside.

When the Braves traded Kyle Davis last year, it’s clear that their patience is running out with their young starters. They sent Jo-Jo, who’s been better this year and James to the minors several times.

Are Chuck James days numbered as a brave, and as a starter?

By Supes

May 11, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

Anyone making an argument for Chuck James and his 2 “pitches” and comparing him to a JJJ is not in their right state of mind. I guess the Chuck James appologists are in full force today!

Get a clue…neither one of Chuck’s 2 pitches is a dominant pitch! Yeah you can be successful as a 2 pitch pitcher, but you’ve gotta have that dominant pitch.

Look at Johan Santana…devastating change and an above average fastball.

JJJ or anyone else…same thing.

Look at Chuck James…STRAIGHT 90mph fastball that even a struggling Andrew Jones can’t miss, big leag hitters don’t fear Chuck’s fastball at all, and his change up isn’t as good as JJJ or Glavine’s for that matter b/c he can’t consistantly throw it for strikes.

So spare me the argument of comparing Chuck to other so called “2 pitch pitcher” b/c Chuck’s 2 pitches are not dominant, therefore he gets lit up like a pinball machine by big league hitters with patience!

By Stephen

May 11, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

Chuck James is nothing like Kyle Davies—they’re two completely different pitchers. James has never shown the EXTREMES in performances that Davies showed. James usually, but not always, gives five solid innings per start. If the Cox would understand that James is good for five innings and nothing more, then he would be a decent #5 pitcher. The numbers clearly show that he gets tagged in the 6th and 7th innings. Use him correctly, and you can get 5 solid innings on most nights he starts. Use him incorrectly, and you set yourself up for trouble.

By MGL

May 11, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

Fl wins again today, also the Mutts. Philly just lost to SF.

We are now 4 behind FL, 2 behind Philly, and 1 behind NY.

Time to get busy!!!

By Gil in Mechanicsville

May 11, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this

Sometimes it is up to your offense to win some games… You cannot expect your pitching staff to constantly win games 2-0…

By TPM

May 11, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

You all are in deep denial. You can keep telling yourselves that this jurassic park rotation is working. This team will not win 80 games.

By The Skinny on Chuck James.

May 11, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this

James is a finesse pitcher who relies on his impressive change up to deceive hitters and strike them out with regularity. He mixes his pitches well to keep hitters off balance, mainly sticking with the fastball and change up. On occasion throwing the slider.

Does not have a great fastball at around 88-90 mph. He gets into trouble when falling behind in the count, overcompensating with the fastball and walking batters. In his third season, batters have figured him out and are laying off the change up, sitting on the fastball and pounding it. James is a flyball pitcher susceptible to the homerun, especially when facing right handers.

For a lefty, his pick off move to first base is average at best. James has the tendency to forget about runners at second, thereby creating opportunities to swipe third. He fields his position adequately.

James pitching mechanics are poor at best, throwing across his body with little follow through. He has already experienced a partially torn rotator cuff and with his throwing motion can expect more arm troubles in the future. The young left handers mental approach to pitching is questionable at best. His career potential is as a back of the rotation inning eater who will manage to stay around the .500 mark in wins and losses.

By adam Johnson

May 11, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

Let frenchy play, if he wants to play, let him. He is not an old man, he can rest between games. If he wants to be tony starks, I mean iron man, then why should anyone shut him down.

By adam Johnson

May 11, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

Let frenchy play, if he wants to play, let him. He is not an old man, he can rest between games. If he wants to be tony starks, I mean iron man, then why should anyone shut him down.

By JC FROM UT

May 11, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

How about this scenerio: Braves trade Matt Diaz and CJ to CLeveland for Jake Westbrooke. Cleveland is dieing for offense. Atlanta could then promote Josh Anderson to take Diaz’ spot and can platoon in the lead off spot with Blanco. This team really needs some speed atop the order. With Cliff Lee pitching the way he has and Laffey coming up and pitctching well, Cleveland may trade Westbrooke to free up some money to re-sign Sabathia. Any thoughts?

By Bravesfan79

May 11, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

Why does everyone wanna trade Pena?? Having him definitly dosent hurt the bench….like say a corky miller does.

Im concerned about a possible drop in Escobars production/ happiness if his best friend (u know the one guy who actually speaks his language in the dugout!) is traded!!

Will Escobar then feel less loyalty to the Braves? What happens when free agency comes around for him? Him being happy/content will have alot to do with him working out a team friendly contract like Chipper/Hudson and Smoltz have done in the past to be able to stay here.

I know if i couldnt really talk to everyone else in the dugout but one person, then that person is traded, id be p**! Not to mention that person is a childhood friend. I would definitly feel ALOT less loyalty to that team. And every great team needs loyal players!

DONT TRADE PENA!!

BTW: Great Story William!

By stynes

May 11, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

DOB, what did YOU think about Simers’s new column on Andruw? I personally think some of the stuff he says may be right but he’s being something of a jerk about it. Why try to give Andruw a hard time about it? He’s boxing him into a corner and there’s nothing good to come from it.

By beachcomber

May 11, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

DOB - Just catching up with your blog and there are many you are not ticking off with your comments.

Those of us who have watching KJ struggle feel it’s time for a change and #’s 11 & 19 at the top seems only too logical.

As for Frenchy - there is a reason the vast majority of us work 5 or 6 day weeks. We time to recharge - same goes for ballplayers - maybe more so.

As for Tex, we all await a few clutch hits. They don’t come often enough to justify the current salary much less whatever absurd number Mr. Boras comes up with next year.

By Lew

May 11, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

If Chuckie throws his change up and fastball with the same motion, then how do the hitters know to lay off the change up and wait for the fastball? Is he perhaps tipping off the change up?

By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)

May 11, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this

That story on AJ from Simers is actually pretty straight forward. Considering that it comes from a writer that hasn’t covered AJ for a decade and judging by AJ’s attitude, it’s about what you would expect. But you could bet your last dollar those comments wouldn’t be tolerated as a member of the Braves and one of BC’s players. The clubhouse wouldn’t stand for it and the veterans wouldn’t let it slide without some “advising”.

At worst — Kangaroo Court.

By GrammarPolice

May 11, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB - Um…look at your 5:38 post. “Accept in an emergency…”? Yikes.

By eric the elder

May 11, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

Baseball folks like to talk about “on a pace to.” Personally, that doesn’t seem particularly meaningful. I’m just glad to be on a pace to make it through today.

However, consider this: The Braves are 14-4 at home and 4-13 on the road. That means they are on a pace to winning 64 home games and 19 road games, for a total of 83 games!

Swing just 7 games the other way, and we win 90 and possibly the division. How does that “on a pace to” work for you?

By William

May 11, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

Geez!! Frenchy had TODAY off, so let it rest people.

By brent a.

May 11, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

Capt Caveman

Why be so low-class and call me names?

The point is simply that I understand A lot about the Lakers and the events surrounding the break-up of that ‘04 team, plain and simple.

Sounds like you just know some message board fodder.

Seriously man, calling me names? I thought this was a civilized board. If you don’t want to have a discussion, then let it die.

Trust me, I understand the difference between doing something and being convicted. But, without a conviction, and without a confession, you’ve got nothing but accusations, and Bryant’s statement (written by her attorneys) that he understood why she thought she had not consented.

But, to call me names, demeans us both, but moreso you, because it’s the best you can come up with. If you want to re-direct or end a discussion, calling me a name is not the way to do it.

By joebrave

May 11, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy, Yup Them Kiddies are a tad overwhelming at times. But all is good,How’s your Family,all well I hope.

By brent a.

May 11, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

Someone on here is showing his/her true colors. It’s really a shame that some people have such little class, that they feel the need to take a relatively mature forum, and turn it into a place to reveal their weak-minded, depravity.

Happy Mother’s Day.

Too bad Carroll Rogers isn’t here today. I’m sure she’d really get a kick out of this.

By N8

May 11, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

eric the elder

“Swing just 7 games the other way, and we win 90 and possibly the division. How does that “on a pace to” work for you?”

Or 76 games and we pick fairly high in the ameture draft next summer. LOL!

You din’t thin that I was gonna let that optimism slide, did you. :-)

By Savannah Guy

May 11, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

joebrave Just checking in before shutting her down for the night and saw you there. Glad to hear the kiddies are good. Overwhelming is the cost of entry, eh? All is great here to… never been better.

Music Thought some of you new music denizens might like to hear this band if you haven’t yet. Good stuff. Porcupine Tree.

By Tubbo Strikes Out

May 11, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

The Atlanta media market doesn’t prepare ex-Braves for life after Atlanta. The writer from the times calling Andruw out about being “Tubbo” and challenging him to lose weight.

Anyway, the link is below.

Andruw Slammed in the LA Press

By Ralph

May 11, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

The problem with Bobby Cox is that he has his favorites, and no matter how bad, they preformed he won’t take them out. Johnson last year was a lousy lead off man and he’s even worse this year. The Braves are on the same path as last year, because Bobby keeps making the same mistakes he made last year. Johnson should be the 8th hitter, he’s not a very good second baseman at either. Francoeur, just keep swing at any pitch 2 feet away from home plate, he haven’t improved from last year, he still try’s to kill the ball on every swing. The Braves, just don’t have the chemistry that it takes to be a winner. Cox’s messes around with the line-up to much. Just like last year, when the Braves, are down a couple of runs, they give up. The main problem with the Braves is and hate to say it is Bobby Cox. He has to altered his way of thinking, or the Braves aren’t going anywhere, but down.

By Ralph

May 11, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

The problem with Bobby Cox is that he has his favorites, and no matter how bad, they preformed he won’t take them out. Johnson last year was a lousy lead off man and he’s even worse this year. The Braves are on the same path as last year, because Bobby keeps making the same mistakes he made last year. Johnson should be the 8th hitter, he’s not a very good second baseman at either. Francoeur, just keep swing at any pitch 2 feet away from home plate, he haven’t improved from last year, he still try’s to kill the ball on every swing. The Braves, just don’t have the chemistry that it takes to be a winner. Cox’s messes around with the line-up to much. Just like last year, when the Braves, are down a couple of runs, they give up. The main problem with the Braves is and hate to say it is Bobby Cox. He has to altered his way of thinking, or the Braves aren’t going anywhere, but down.

By LuisGuillermo

May 11, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

Those Phiten necklaces are becoming so popular… almost every player in the RedSox-Twins game is wearing at least one (they’re wearing it pink).

I wish I had SportsSouth on my cable network. Here in the Dominican Republic is so freaking hard to keep up with the Braves, since TBS no longer carries their games. I have to tune for 11Alive News to see 25 seconds of the game. ESPN must have signed a contract with the Yankees and Red Sox. They’ve been on ESPN a lot lately, and here in my country they televise a lot of RedSox games. It really sucks.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

Just got back from the Penguins-Flyers game at the Igloo. Incredible atmosphere in that place. NHL playoffs, that’s some serious, passionate stuff with those folks. Good times. Scalped a $140 ticket for $100 20 minutes before the game started. Niiice.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

Johnson last year was a lousy lead off man and he�s even worse this year.Ralph

Really? That’s news to me. Because I thought Kelly Johnson had a .372 OBP as a leadoff man last season, along with 29 extra-base hits (including six triples and nine homers) in 309 at-bats as a leadoff man.

You really consider that “lousy”?

You don’t have to revise history to make your point about him struggling this year. It’s really enough to say he’s been ineffective this year in the role, which he has been. This year.

By joebrave

May 11, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

Look Guys Chuck james SUX,Needs to be removed from Bobby’s @ss!!! If Frank would just move this guy for some windows or something,Bobby would be forced to call on Someone Else for a damn change!!!

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

Tubbo Strikes Out: Thanks for that link at 10:25 p.m. It’ll help those who missed the link I posted to the story about 12 hours ago, and the dozen or more comments that folks here made about the story this morning and early afternoon here on the ol’ blog.

By Eman

May 11, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

Diaz is not an everyday man Is there evidence for this (besides 2/3 weeks in April)?

Is it possible Francouer isn’t that good? Potentially..yes. And why is he tired? He’s a kid playing in May. It seems to me he’s a few really productive games that inflate his stats (see the Washington game), but most of the time he is pretty average.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB - Um, look at your 5:38 post. “Accept in an emergency…” Yikes.GrammarPolice

Thanks. Whew. Good thing you caught that.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this

The forecast for tomorrow calls for a high of 52 degrees here in Pittsburgh. On May 12. And rain, at least through about noon.

By monty

May 11, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this

While it’s still “early” there are some trends that are developing for the Braves that must be reversed pretty quickly. Take having the worst road record in the league and having the worst record in one run games. With a little over one month of the season gone and 4 games out of first with 3 teams ahead of them and playing better baseball as of late, the Braves don’t need to lose any more ground over the next month and find themselves 8 games back in June. While technically they would still have a shot at it and miracles do sometimes happen, barring a trade for a really good starting pitcher I don’t see that happening with this team. There have been games where the Braves have dominated, but few if any “magical” rallies that show that they have the ablity to dig deep within themselves. JMHO

By Greg in TN

May 12, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this

Evening folks…

Soggy day for part of the day at the confluence in downtown Pittsburgh, so we do the whole Ernie Banks thing and play two tomorrow.

As time goes on, I feel more and more when I look at the home and road splits that we’d be strictly .500 at neutral sites.

Just throwing this out to the denizens, however this would be my All Star ballot if one had to be turned in today (all stats for games up to yesterday):

Catcher: Geovany Soto (Cubs): Soto would just barely get the nod over BMac. Both have great offensive numbers this year, however Soto has had a better year to this point throwing out baserunners.

1st Base: Lance Berkman (Astros): Berkman is already at 12 homers for the year and his OPS is in the stratosphere at 1.256. He’s second in the NL in BA and has played well at first for the third place ‘Stros.

2nd Base: Chase Utley (Phillies): Utley leads the league in homers at 13 and is hitting .327. Impressive to me that he’s doing this while the guy hitting behind him (Howard) is hitting .169 with 52 Ks.

3rd Base: Chipper Jones (Braves): The blog is well acquainted with the season Hoss has put together to this point, so not much to add to U Kno Who’s exploits thus far.

Shortstop: Rafael Furcal (Dodgers): There is a former Brave in Chavez Ravine not drawing the ire of the LA scribes and Dodgers faithful and putting up good numbers with the bat. Furcal is playing for a good contract after the year and is making it count to this point.

Outfielders: Josh Willingham (Marlins), Pat Burrell (Phillies) and Ryan Ludwick (Cardinals): Burrell isn’t a surprise to me and Willingham is a mild surprise but I guarantee nobody saw the season Ludwick’s had so far coming. Ludwick is a big reason why the Cards are in first place in the Central at this point in the season splitting time between cleanup and the 5 hole in LaRussa’s lineup. Burrell along with Utley have certainly helped pick up the slack in Philly while Jimmy Rollins was out and Willingham and Hanley Ramirez are the fuel behind the offense that’s been keeping the Marlins ahead of the rest of the pack in the East.

Anyway, my take so far on the All-Star race, this will certainly change over time as other guys surge and some of these guys fade.

By uga-brave

May 12, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this

luis guillermo,

just spent 10 days in the dominican.

the resorts at punta cana are awesome. spent 5 says at melia caribe and 5 days at the excellence.

best vacation value out there. better then aruba, jamica, and the virgin islands.

By N8

May 12, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this

DOB

When looking at your 11:27 post, and seeing the word “accept”, along with what looks like a foreign language (perhaps German?), I can’t help but be reminded of the (ahem!) “great” Udo Dirkschneider, lead singer of the 80’s German heavy metal band ACCEPT.

All together now……BALLS TO THE WALL!

By LuisGuillermo

May 12, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this

Thanks uga-brave. I think many people will agree with you about that. People in my country take big pride of our vacation facilities. Tourinsm is very important in our economy.

By David O'Brien

May 12, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this

Speaking of rockin’ tunes, they blasted some great ones at the hockey game, everything from Neil’s “Rockin in the Free World” to some old Jesus & Mary Chain and the Beasties. But the early Van Halen and Ozzie’s “Crazy Train” (at start of the third period) really got the crowd charged up.

By Moby Grape

May 12, 2008 12:45 AM | Link to this

Which starting pitchers only throw 2 pitches?Braveheart

ah, but most of them have better pitches and/or better location. It also doesn’t help Chuckie that he is a fly ball pitcher and will remain one as long as he has that abbreviated delivery. Chuck is what he is, an ok #5. If circumstances force him to be relied on regularly at a higher level he is likely to be disappointing.

By uga-brave

May 12, 2008 12:54 AM | Link to this

if bobby is gonna ever rest francoeur tommorow is the day.

why not let norton or blanco start against the RH.

dont really think a day off will cure his woes though.

comparing andruw to francoeur is not fair to andruw. from 2000 thru 2006 andruw had really good to great years.

braves may have to make a real tough decision on francoeur. as for now i would not be in a hurry to extend him.

hey it happens, not everybody lives up to expectations. however it would be a real downer for fox sports. what else are they gonna show during rain delays.

By BravesRule

May 12, 2008 12:55 AM | Link to this

Van Benchoten hasn’t started since last season, when he went — get this — 0-7 with a 9.61 ERA in nine starts.DOB

that should be a guaranteed loss for the Bravos then

By N8

May 12, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this

DOB

Are you an NHL fan, or did you just go because the opportunity was there to go?

I’ve never been to an NHL game, but my buddy who is a die-hard NHL fan goes to plenty. One of his best friends is married to a gal who happened to be one of the Chicago Blackhawks trainer/physical therapy people. This was maybe 5-10 years ago.

But he swears that it’s the most “electric” sport to see live. I’m not so sure.

Living where I live, I’ve been to a couple of UND games, but never any of the Frozen Four games. It was fun, but not as fun as “playoff” atmosphere baseball, IMO.

Guess you gotta love the sport to appreciate it.

This coming from a guy who doesn’t really like basketball, yet has season tickets to a D-League team.

I guess the fun of those games is watching my kids enjoy it.

By David O'Brien

May 12, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this

N8, didn’t grow up with hockey (it was not big in N. Carolina, Memphis or southcentral Kansas, when I lived in those places), so I don’t have a proper appreciation of it.

But I’ve been to a few regular-season games and it truly is a great sport to watch live, rather than on TV. And I’d heard so much about the playoff atmosphere, had to give it a go when I had a chance to see one of the old-time hockey towns play at an old arena against a rival, and in the third round of the playoffs, no less. It was awesome.

I just love great atmoshere like that at a sporting event. And since I wasn’t working tonight, and arena’s only about 10 blocks away, I had to go. Glad I did, too.

Pittsburgh fans are diehard, man. Serious passion. Great sports town in general, but for the Steelers and Penguins — terrific fans.

By uga-brave

May 12, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this

DOB,

gotta agree with you on playoff hockey. it is great.

my wife is from pittsburgh, and their fans are passionate about the steelers and the penquins.

her family has had season tickets to both for a long time, and steelers fooball games has a college type atmosphere.

pittsburgh is really a neat city. the setting around pnc ballpark is really kind of cool. going up there in june, and we are going to a game. i think they are playing the rays.

who would of thought both florida teams are now 14 games over .500. combined.

how about dan uggla and hanley ramirez. right now offensively they are right there with rollins and utley.

you could make a case that the n.l. east has the best shortstops in baseball. ramirez, rollins, reyes, and escobar. heck they do have the best shortstops.

kind of funny that you guys are following the nhl eastern conference playoffs. going to philly next.

By BravesRule

May 12, 2008 1:47 AM | Link to this

Atlanta could then promote Josh Anderson to take Diaz’ spot and can platoon in the lead off spot with Blanco. JC

how do you platoon two left-handed hitters?

By jbutler

May 12, 2008 2:02 AM | Link to this

DOB That’s great you got to experience playoff hockey…a whole different beast than the regular season. We got to see the Avs/Red Wings about 8 years ago in the playoffs- it was so intense they took 3 players off on stretchers and just flat out bloodied the whole place up. The refs just watched while players literally fought until they were bleeding too badly.

By David O'Brien

May 12, 2008 2:07 AM | Link to this

uga-brave, it’s a great town. Very scenic downtown, surrounding by the rivers and the hills. And two great stadiums, with a new hockey arena coming next.

Yes, NL East has extraordinary array of shortstops. And yes, the Marlins are quite impressive. Don’t know how long they can sustain it with their starting pitching, but they’re playing great, and doing it with tiny home crowds and a puny payroll.

And it really does look like that ballpark is going to get built, though i’ve learned from my years down there not to believe anything until the bulldozers and cranes are on the construction site and shovels are in the dirt.

I’m very happy for Fredi Gonzalez. A great guy in a tough spot, and getting the job done.

By N8

May 12, 2008 2:13 AM | Link to this

DOB

Cool. Hockey’s pretty big around here. Plenty of outdoor rinks to play on in the winter.

I just never got into it. Enjoyed going to HS games, when I was in HS, but not much since.

There’s an independent league here as well, and it’s pretty decent entertainment. Some local kids, but mainly out of town guys (lot of Canadians). A couple of them have been “called up” before, but no big splashes.

But I’ve heard the same thing about playoff hockey being pretty intense.

I think the NFL is the only sport, that I would rather see on TV. Too hard to not see the “details” once that pile is formed. Guess I just grew up watching on TV, and didn’t like going to the couple of games I’ve gone to.

I’m sure if I went to a Chiefs game at Arrowhead, I’d enjoy it, though. But probably more the atmosphere and experience more than the game itself.

By Coach (Braves In 2008 to the Playoffs)

May 12, 2008 2:52 AM | Link to this

Agreed about the platoon thing. Kotsay, Blanco and Anderson all swing it from the left side. With the way Blanco is contributing, Josh Anderson has no chance of playing for the Braves unless somebody gets hurt.

As for the pitching situation due to the double header, the logical course of action would be to send James back to Richmond after his start on Thursday, call up Charlie Morton for one start and go from there.

Morton is scheduled to pitch on Tuesday for Richmond which will probably tell us more about the Braves plans for Friday.

Out in the bullpen, Boyer, Ring and Resop are as we already know, out of options.

Smoltz and Soriano are both due to come of the D.L. soon. Then there is the question of Mike Hampton.

It’s going to get very interesting in Atlanta real quick like because Bobby Cox has some important decisions to make which will affect the Braves pitching depth for the rest of the season.

By Random

May 12, 2008 5:48 AM | Link to this

Well, I’ll be out of touch in Savannah this week, so let me pre-emptively post the following:

Sheesh!!! If Tex keeps swinging from his @$$, maybe we should just call him “Tush”!

(I know, I know — and if he grows some ‘locks and dons a tam, we should call him “Tosh”. Okay, you got me.)

Later.

PS: I really do think we should call him “Tesh” until he actually does straighten up and fly right.

By Coach (Braves In 2008 to the Playoffs)

May 12, 2008 6:34 AM | Link to this

By David O’Brien

May 11, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

By the way, it stopped raining about an hour or two after they banged the game. We could be at least 5-6 innings into it now, and it’s not raining at all. Sun’s poking through clouds. Unbelievable. Seems like it happens every time they call one early.

So, am I to interpret this as: THE BRAVES GOT F*ED BY THE UMPIRES, AGAIN !

By ChampDawg

May 12, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this

Until Tex and Franceour start hitting more than their weight and until Booby Cox has the sense to put someone other than a 250 hitter at the top of the lineup, this team sux.

By hatfieldgeoff

May 12, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

Consecutive game streaks are BS stats. Lou Gehrig and Cal Ripken. There were plenty of days during their streaks when they were injured or sick enough that their teams would have benefited from another guy taking their slot. Francoeur should have been out two weeks ago when he hurt his ankle. He was obviously hurting at the plate and limping in the outfield. But he is the future “face” of the Braves so they want him to keep this record. Well I want records about driving in runs and hitting for average. I agree he looks tired but I think what is bothering him the most is the fact he only has three homers at this point. The off season workouts and the talk in spring training about him pulling the ball more than usual, makes it clear he was concerned about only hitting 19 last year and the lack of power so far has him thinking about HRs too much. Seems like pitchers are coming inside on him alot and so far he hasn’t adjusted. Time for Terry Pendleton to start earning his money and get Francoeur working on his swing. Also, as a team, it seems the Braves go in with a plan against a pitcher who is a bit wild. They are patient early, but they get up 1-0 or 2-0 and then everybody is swinging at practically everything again, and we wind up losing 3-2 or 4-3. Make no mistake the vast majority of the one-run losses are due to the hitters not the pitching.

By Jocko Conlan

May 12, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

Coach,

Umpires have no control over whether or not the game is played until the game is already under way. Since yesterday’s game never got started, it was the Pirates’ call to postpone.

Seeing as how you’re always patting yourself on the back over your baseball expertise, I’m surprised at your ignorance of this issue.

I think you missed the old “roll the hole” sign where postponements are concerned.

Repeat after me: “Gee, I didn’t know that.”

Feels good to finally admit the truth, huh?

By Shaun

May 12, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

Shaun would argue that the walks are just as good as a hit, and a good OBP is excellent! Wrong. Not to undermine walks, but what you do with a pitch is more beneficial to your team than taking a 4 or 5 pitch walk. If teammates can see how you approach the pitcher it will help them adapt a similar approach for success. Tis why it was no joke that the offense exploded in prados starts in the leadoff spot

Obviously it depends on the situations as to whether a walk is as good as a hit. It depends on whether there are runners on, what kind of hit (extra bases or a single) and it depends on if the pitch/pitches are out of the zone. I certainly wouldn’t want a Braves to chase pitches out of the zone for the sake of trying to drive in runs.

“Two comments: (1) Our announcers keep harping on bad luck on the road. Bad luck doesn’t have a darn thing to do with it. Bad execution does!!”

Uh Oh! That roaring you hear coming from inside the cave, is the sleeping bear, otherwise known as Shaun. Expect an argument from him on that comment (I’m sure I’ll hear from him due to mine. LOL!

Roar! Bad execution certainly plays a role…as does bad luck. Too bad life is not as simple as we sometimes pretend it is.

By Shaun

May 12, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

In one-run games the Braves have scored 3.73 runs per game and allowed 4.55.

In all others they have scored 5.5 runs per game and allowed 3.42. Braves are 17-7 in games decided by two or more runs, that’s the best record in baseball and 2-1/2 games better than Arizona.

So when the Braves are scoring significantly less and allowing more runs, they seem to be staying in games but not winning them.

Last year the team with the best record in games decided by two or more runs—the Boston Red Sox.

The 2005 Indians are the only team this decade that has missed the playoffs after having the best record in games decided by two or more runs.

By Shaun's Supervisor

May 12, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

Company’s Internet records show that, yet again, Shaun reported to work at 9 a.m. Monday and was logged onto www.ajc.com by 9:03 a.m.

If previous monitorings are any indication, Shaun will not log off of www.ajc.com anytime before 4:59 p.m., after which he will immediately leave the office for the day.

Productivity, as usual, is negligible.

Recommend termination.

By Devil's Advocate

May 12, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

So tell us, Shaun, how often does the team with the majors’ worst record in one-run games make the playoffs?

By The BLOG TROLL

May 12, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

I’m back ! Hey everybody, look at me ! I’m playing gotcha with coach and shaun !

Isn’t it fun !

God I miss kindergarten.

By McFann

May 12, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

Did anyone watch the webcast of Thursday’s game on MLB TV?

If so, may I ask: Did they show Smoltz with the mic? The game is available to buy on iTunes, but I don’t want to buy it if they for some odd reason they cut that part out.

Don’t know why they would, but it’s $1.99, and I don’t wanna use up any of our 13 some odd iTunes dollars if they ruined it.

Thank you!!

By Lew

May 12, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

Jocko Conlan-Now there’s a name not heard since my childhood. That and Augie Donatelli. Got my eyes on an autographed Al Barlick baseball down at the local card store for my collection, too. All great umpires.

By David O'Brien

May 12, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

So tell us, Shaun, how often does the team with the majors’ worst record in one-run games make the playoffs?Devil’s Advocate

I’m not Shaun, but D.A., are you saying you really believe the current one-run record is more important than the fact that the Braves are four games out of first place (and one game behind both Philly and NY) with 127 games to play?

By David O'Brien

May 12, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

Braves lineup for first game:

1. Infante, 2B; 2. Escobar; 3. Chipper; 4. Teixeira; 5. Francoeur; 6. Diaz; 7. Miller; 8. Blanco; 9. Jurrjens.

By McFann

May 12, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

Why would you bat Miller in front of Blanco……in front of Jurrjens?

By BravesRule

May 12, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Why would you bat Miller in front of Blanco……in front of Jurrjens?McFann

Now now McFanny, your bias is showing.

By 22oz

May 12, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

Miller will clearly hit better than Blanco simply because he is right handed facing a lefty. Thats the way baseball works.

By the way, i can’t believe we’re not panicking about the fact that we are down to only 2 catchers! What happens if McCann gets injured, then Corky gets hurt, then Diaz pulls a hammy, and then Norton has already pinch hit! What will we do? I can’t believe they didn’t call up Sammons!

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

May 12, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

McFann, that is an excellent question.

By TennesseePaul

May 12, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

current one-run record is more important than the fact that the Braves are four games out of first place

Sheeeeesh. I’ve been so busy I hadn’t even looked at the standings in a while. 4 games? Last I looked it was 1 game. These road trips are killing us. As for the Marlins… I don’t know if they will hold but they are young and talented with what appears to be an exceptional bullpen.

By Lew

May 12, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

McFann-So you don’t have two sure outs back to back in the eighth and ninth spot in the lineup.

By DAP

May 12, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

i cant get over how well florida is playing…they are on a heck of a steak right now, and at 9 games over .500, i think they have set themselves up to be in the thick of things all summer.

the braves need to win these games today, i donnt want to see .500 or below again this season. they really need to salvage this road trip.

By Im

May 12, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

DOB did i miss something about kelly johnson? why has infante been starting recently? i think hes been at 2B in two of the last three games…and i guess 3 of 4 after this first game.

By 22oz

May 12, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

Im, Kelly has fallen victim to what i like to call “Bobby’s newest toy.” Sometimes these toys stick, for Kelly himself was once a new toy, as was Escobar. Sometimes they don’t. Unfortunately, this new toy is righthanded and can play second base. Bless his heart, Bobby made it a month before Kelly got platooned.

By keylargo

May 12, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

http://www.latimes.com/sports/baseball/mlb/dodgers/la-sp-bbcol11-2008may11,0,6482432.story

Here’s another “feather” in AJ’s cap

By Efrim

May 12, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

I think it is the wrong move to platon KJ. Hit Escobar leadoff and bat Kotsay 2nd if you must, but platooning Johnson is a bad move.

Should we platoon Frenchy? His numbers are worse than Johnson’s.

I think you stick with Kelly at 2nd.

Does anyone get the feeling that Kelly is on his way out after this year?

I sure do and it is a f*** shame.

By pat

May 12, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

Warning hijack in place:

http://www.latimes.com/sports/baseball/mlb/dodgers/la-sp-simers11-2008may11,0,532491.column

This just had to be shared with Atlanta fans. Glad to be rid of Andruw? Hell yes.

By DAP

May 12, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

i feel really bad for andruw. he says this:

“When September gets here and you finish strong, no one will remember the first two weeks.”

thats true, except its been 5 weeks, and he has just 4 RBIs. its just sad now. i would love to see him snap out of it and carry LA to the playoffs. (only to get swept by the braves)

By Greg

May 12, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

Man, this Andruw thing in LA has gotten ugly.

http://www.latimes.com/sports/baseball/mlb/dodgers/la-sp-simers11-2008may11,0,532491.column

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

May 12, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

I agree with Efrim. I think Kelly isn’t comfortable in the leadoff spot. I know people think it is silly that certain players only excel in certain spots in the lineup but it does happen. Kelly would be an ideal #3 hitter but since this fella named Chipper is there that is out of the question. So, I think Kelly would be better off hitting sixth or seventh. I totally agree that Kotsay should be batting second or Blanco when he is in the lineup.

By BravesFanInRockies

May 12, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

Efrim,

I hope you’re overreacting, because I’m a big KJ fan. He’s not producing in the leadoff spot. (You have to wonder how many of our speed-freak denizens — yes, I mean you, Coach — would say to give the guy a break and keep him in the 1-hole forever because he can run, if he had speed like Reyes or Anderson.)

Anyway, I still believe he could be an All-Star caliber hitter. Perhaps it’s best for the team to drop him to the 6-hole vs. righties (with Frenchy hitting 7th) and #8 vs. lefties — or platooned — until he snaps out of it.

By Overlord

May 12, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

McFann, so Corky makes the last out and Blanco leads off next inning. :-)

By 22oz

May 12, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

Can someone put up a link to the TJ Simers article? I can’t believe it hasn’t been mentioned on here!

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

May 12, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

The “Andruw” situation can be summed up like this. Andruw is playing for the same type of manager he has always played for-one who refuses to make him accountable for his bad habits and stubborness. I love Torre and along with Cox believe they are two of the best to ever manage. However, they both have a major flaw and that flaw is refusing to make their “teacher’s pet” players do the right thing. They refuse to get in their face and tell them to get their heads out of their asses! Torre is doing the same thing with Andruw that Cox did and that is just to allow him to go on with horrendously bad hitting habits.

Until somebody stands up to Andruw and tells him to either correct his habits or sit, he will continue to look like some 40 something beer league softball player trying to play in the Majors. For him to have only 4 RBI and it is May 12 is just totally unacceptable.

By nolie

May 12, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

Why would you bat Miller in front of Blanco……in front of Jurrjens?McFannMcFann

speed in the 8 hole is a good thing in general. Ozzie made a pretty good career out of it.Helps the pitcher get the runner over sometimes too. When Furcal first came up and we still had VV playing for us, when they were both in the line-up, one would lead off and often the other was in the 8 hole.

By Lee

May 12, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Does anyone get the feeling that Kelly is on his way out after this year?

Maybe sooner than that.

By BravesFanInRockies

May 12, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

Kelly would be an ideal #3 hitter but since this fella named Chipper is there that is out of the question.Robert

Agreed. Too bad he’s been in one of his funks for so long.

And not to be misunderstood, Efrim, I hope the overreaction isn’t from the Braves who give up on Kelly too soon.

By Renegator

May 12, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

DOB

Does it look like the game will start on time or is their going to be a rain delay?

By flange1

May 12, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

I don’t know if KJ is on his way out, but I agree with you he platoon thing is a bad thing. KJ is too good a hitter to be sitting so much.

But the team does play poorly and score fewer runs against lefties, so we have to give Bobby SOME credit for trying to jump start the offense.

Maybe the team thinks Schafer will be the perfect lead off guy and that KJ can be traded, and Lil’bridge can play second.

If that is the case, I would love to see KJ back in LF full time.

By McFann

May 12, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

Well, I got a buncha good responses to my Corky Q. THough, I don’t know, 22oz, Corky only has one hit this year. But it was off a lefty, so, maybe…

Sooo……Anybody watch Thursday’s game on MLB TV? (Last time I’ll ask, I promise!)

By TennesseePaul

May 12, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

“Everybody that did [PEDs], you can see how it paid off,” he said. “They all got hurt. They’re on the disabled list, or they’re out of baseball.”
—Andruw Jones

That’s the first I recall of a player actually describing who the users were… Makes me wonder even more now about Marcus Giles.

By McFann

May 12, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah:

BravesRule—

Yeah, I am pretty biased, aren’t I? 8 )

But I wouldn’t have to be quite so much if Corky could hit a little better. (.083? Come on…) But I must admit, he did a great job gunning down what’s-his-face at second base during Thursday’s game. He took a key walk in that game, too.

By flange1

May 12, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

I think the AJ thing is interesting.

We have had many folks ask or demand that the Atlanta media “man up” (sorry Carroll!) and tell it like it is about players or managers that are not performing up to expectations.

This story is exactly that kind of philosophy. As you see when you read the story, AJ just gets as obnoxious as the writer.

And this is supposed to be a good thing? To get the player and the fans even more worked up?

Sorry, I don’t think so. I don’t think attack journalism like this story is good for anyone but the journalist’s ego.

By 1957 Braves Fan

May 12, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

If the Braves split the doubleheader and that is a big “if”, we will be 1-3 against the mighty Pirates this series. Our feast or most likely famine offense will keep us out of the playoffs again. Braves need to find ways to score more than two runs a game. Maybe bringing up a young enthusiastic player who is happy to make it to the majors would be a good idea.

By TJ

May 12, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Efrim, I agree completely about KJ.

I really doubt this is a longterm platoon. Hope not, anyway.

Braves have been struggling against lefties, KJ’s been banged up and slumping (though still hitting the ball hard), Infante needs some work and so far is hot… so credit to Bobby for a good temporary move. I suspect that’s all it is and KJ is still the primary 2B.

I’m glad Infante is hitting - hope he keeps it up - but his career numbers suggest he’s nowhere near the hitter KJ is. Even against lefties, his career OPS is just .688 (vs KJ’s .741).

By Braveheart

May 12, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

Torre batted Arod 8th, dropped Oneill, Giambi, Tino and Bernie lower in the order when the time came, benched Tino in playoff games. I don’t think Torre is as guilty as Cox of holding onto a set lineup. Torre changes things around quite a bit. What is he supposed to do with Druw? He’s being paid $18 mil. He’s gotta play.

I don’t think Torre has babied Andruw. Torre has made it quite clear on several occasions that Druw is fat and not in playing shape. Even Jose Canseco, of all people, has said that Torre was the only manager he respected because Torre was the only one who told him the painful truth.

By TennesseePaul

May 12, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

The “Andruw” situation can be summed up like this. Andruw is playing for the same type of manager he has always played for-one who refuses to make him accountable for his bad habits and stubborness.

Robert (CIB): Joe gets some flack for his managing, but to say he is treating AJ the same seems a bit of a stretch. Joe has moved AJ all over that line up trying to get some production. And recently AJ has been benched and used as a late innings pinch hit strike out. I don’t know that Cox would have ever done that…

By keylargo

May 12, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

22oz While it was ironic that three links appeared from 11:17 until 11:33, only the last two were to TJ Simers article. The first link was to a story I had not seen mentioned previously although it was about AJ.

By TJ

May 12, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

Bobby really didn’t have much of an option in CF… he certainly didn’t have Juan Pierre.

By McFann

May 12, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Hey! Zack Duke! He’s the guy Corky got his hit against!

There is hope, denizens.

By Sammy Kershaw

May 12, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

DOB,

wondering what you think of this. Ken Griffey Jr is in the final year of his contract. I dont expect the Braves would trade for him, but given he is a free agent and willing to take a little less $ to play for a contender, what are the odds he may want to come to Atlanta to maybe play left for the Braves next year?

By David O'Brien

May 12, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOG. let’s do it, folks

By Shaun

May 12, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

So tell us, Shaun, how often does the team with the majors’ worst record in one-run games make the playoffs?

Last season the Phillies were the second-worst. Boston was the sixth-worst. Yankees were eighth-worst.

I can’t pretend to know what’s going to happen (like some of you who think that one-run games are actually telling us a whole lot) but as DOB says, the Braves are only four games out and one behind the teams that will most likely be there in the end. And I would add, they are great in games decided by two or more runs.

Regarding Kelly Johnson, do you folks really think the Braves are going to give up on him after 30 games? Yes, maybe drop him in the order or rest him but show him the door?

By Lee

May 12, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

Torre had penty of experience handling players and especially the media. Jones should be no problem for him. For goodness sakes he managed the circus Yankees all of those years. Not to mention Big George breathing down his neck constantly.

By MGL

May 12, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

Is it time to post another link to the Simmers article?

I’d hate for someone just joining the blog to have to scroll up more than a few lines to get to one of the numerous times this piece of garbage has been posted.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

May 12, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

Torre isn’t as bad as Cox is but Torre does tend to have a “polyanna” attitude about things. I do have to wonder if Torre has said anything to Andruw about his poor hitting habits.

By David

May 12, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

DOB,

This 4-13 record is on Bobby. He is a HOF manager but not the last year or two. He is too soft and too set in his ways. He is not agressive enough on the bases. He just doesn’t play each game to win like you do in the playoffs. We are the LOWEST in the league in steals.

Cox waits for the 3 run homer and when your offense is struggling, ESPECIALLY with all the DP we hit into, you have to get aggressive. For all of Bobby’s strengths and they are many….this is where he has always been weak.

By Efrim

May 12, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

I am fine with Kelly being dropped in the order, he is struggling, so it makes sense. But giving half of his at bats to Omar Infante is ridiculous. I’m not saying that BC has announced a strict platoon, but if he does, it’s not smart.

And I could care less if Infante has a 4 hit day today, over the long term, it isn’t wise.

By pat

May 12, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

All I know is we should lock Kotsay up for 2-3 years. I love his passion and dedication to playing.

By Jim

May 13, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson couldn’t hit water if he fell out of a boat.

By Northern superiority

May 14, 2008 12:23 AM | Link to this

Tell me again how DB got a job as a sports writer? Oh yeah he works for the AJC, that doesn’t count as writing.