AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > May > 23 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USFor Braves, home is where sizzle is
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
OK, this is getting ridiculous. Ridiculous in a good way, in an entertaining and interesting way for your correspondent and Crusading Everyman. But ridiculous nonetheless.
The Braves are 21-12 since April 17, the National League’s best record in that span, just ahead of Houston (21-13).
The only team in the majors with a better mark since April 17? That’d be the Central Florida outfit formerly known as Devil Rays (hey, I said it was getting ridiculous). Tampa Bay is 21-11 since April 17, while Boston is 22-12.
But anyway, we care about the Senior Circuit here, so back to the Bravos.
Atlanta got off to 5-9 start that had a few folks here on the ol’ Braves/MIB blog practically throwing souvenir bats through TVs, and some pleading for GM Frank Wren to start selling off high-priced parts and building for the future.
(Nevermind Bobby Cox’s teams had mediocre starts more often than not during the last decade or so of their 14-year division title runs. Hey, some people don’t want to know about the past, just this week, today, now dammit.)
(By the way, Atlanta hosts a four-game weekend series starting tonight against an Arizona team that’s going the other way, having struggled to a 9-12 record since its 19-7 start. The D-backs have scored a total of 10 runs during a six-game road skid, including just three runs in three games this week at Florida).
Anyway … where were we before the awkward two paragraphs in parentheses that we like to use on this blog?
Oh, yes, the Bravos’ split personality.
It’s not so shocking, at least to me, that the Braves would rebound from their slow start and be within 1-1/2 games of first place on May 22. I knew they were a better team than they showed in that odd first 2-1/2 weeks, when they faced a lot of adversity and didn’t handle most of it very well, including the brutal schedule, weather and the first few of their many, many injuries.
No, the component that’s inexplicable _ well, besides the fact that it’s still Florida leading the division _ is this crazy home-road dichotomy for the Braves, who have the National League’s best home record (20-5) and the majors’ worst road mark (6-16, a few percentage points worse than Cincy’s 7-18).
The Braves are on a tremendous 19-3 home surge in which they’ve batted .320 with a stingy 2.45 ERA. They’ve won 13 of their past 14 home games while averaging more than six runs per game in that stretch.
Meanwhile on the road, they’ve lost nine of their last 11 games, batting .240 with a 4.61 ERA in that period away from Turner Field.
Hey, the crowds have been great lately at the ballpark I refuse to call The Ted. But that doesn’t begin to explain why the Braves could pitch and hit so much better at home, in a ballpark that slightly favors pitching and is a far cry from more recently built hitters’ havens in Cincy, Philly and Houston.
There probably is no explanation (I asked a handful of Braves yesterday, and they basically said they had no clue). And you know what? It’s likely to start evening out soon. Almost always does, eventually.
Remember last year? It was the total opposite for the Braves for the first three-quarters of the season, when they were a road machine that played poorly at Turner Field and lost so many close games at home.
They turned that around late in the season and have taken it to an entirely new level this season.
They have a majors-leading 2.71 ERA at home (more than a half-run ahead of No. 2 San Diego), but rank seventh in the NL with a 4.30 road ERA.
The Braves’ league-leading .286 batting average includes a .316 average, .386 OBP and .474 slugging percentage at home, and .251/.322/.396 on the road.
“We just have to figure out how to get this feeling when we’re eating foreign food and sleeping in different beds,” said Chipper Jones, who was talking about road games, not trips to Japan. “We’ve got a lot of confidence going. Somehow, some way, that’s got to translate to the airplane ride wherever we go next.”
Both Kelly Johnson and Jeff Francoeur, in separate interviews, mentioned taking the teams’s home-white jerseys on the road to Milwaukee and Cincinnati on a six-game trip that starts Tuesday, even if just to hang them in the lockers.
They were smiling, but I think it’s something the Braves have seriously discussed, one of the slump-busting ideas you run into in baseball. Hey, why not? Whatever they do, they should retire the new road blues, if you ask me. Almost nothing but losses and injuries have happened in those jerseys.
Besides, if you stop wearing them now, they might even sell more at the stands and stores for the novelty factor (“Hey, remember when the Braves wore these jerseys for a couple months in 2008? No? Well, they did. I’m getting one, probably be a collector’s item….”) (That was my stab at fan-to-fan dialogue there. Pretty good, huh? No? Ok, anyway….)
Let’s face it, the jerseys, like all throwbacks and alternate jerseys that have pervaded in pro sports in recent years, are designed for one thing and one thing only - to make money. So retire them. I’d say retire the garish Sunday reds, too, but the Braves have played awfully well in those and apparently a lot of fans like them, for some reason.
(Me, I’m old-school all the way on unis. Gimme all-white pants with little or no stripes, simple logos and color schemes. Dodgers, Cardinals, Braves all have great uniforms. Dodgers made a tweak to theirs a few years back, some unnecessary shadow-boxing or trim or whatever you call it on the lettering around “Los Angeles.” Dumb move.)
OK, we’ve rambled incoherently for a few paragraphs, steered way off course….
It’ll turn around: That’s the point we meant to make. Or the prediction. The Braves are playing such good ball on this homestand, building such momentum and confidence, that the one-run game thing doesn’t seem so dire. Though they are still 2-12 in one-run games, you don’t get the feeling that right now that’s a concern for them like it was a week or two ago.
And they won’t keep losing three out of every four games on the road, just as they won’t keep winning four out of every five (or more, lately) at home. Just won’t happen.
This next road trip, to Milwaukee and Cincy, provides an opportunity for them to flex some hitting muscle, bang out some homers, and have their groundball pitchers succeed in environments that can be brutal on flyball pitchers.
Roger McDowell has done an outstanding job with this patchwork bullpen and the injury-plagued rotation, and the Braves have as good a groundball-heavy staff as you’ll find in the majors. They don’t give up many homers and have cut down on walks, which are two big keys to avoiding big innings and keeping your team in games.
This weekend: There are almost too many good factors in the Braves’ favor this weekend, to the point where you figure things can’t possibly go as well as the stats indicate they should.
Here’s what I mean: The Braves will play three consecutive day games beginning Saturday. They have the best day-game record (10-5) in the National League, and their pitchers have the best day-game ERA (3.11), and more than twice as many strikeouts (104) as walks issued (55) in those games.
The Braves also have the best day-game batting average (.303) by a whopping 20 points over the Cubs. And the best day-game OBP (.381), and the best day-game slugging percentage (.453)…. You getting the picture?
Add that to the home-game thing, and the D-backs’ road-game thing … well, it just looks too good for the Braves. No way they can sweep another four-game series. Too many things working in their favor.
Kelly’s turnaround: Talked to Kelly Johnson yesterday, and he said he believes his recent surge has to do with two things: Yes, he’s a bit more relaxed now that he’s out of the leadoff role and not worrying as much about taking pitches.
But even more than that, he said that an adjustment he made even before the move out of the leadoff role has helped him a lot. It involved taking the approach he’s used recently against lefties, being aggressive and keeping his shoulder in and not bailing out, and applying that to right-handers (the irony didn’t escape him, when I mentioned it’s funny he’s been used in a platoon some recently, playing against right-handers when he’s actually felt better hitting against lefties for some time).
If I had time to go over my notes I could explain it a little better, but I’m running late now, gotta get to the ballpark. Suffice to say, it’s working whatever the reason. Kelly’s hit .411 (23-for-56) with 12 extra-base hits and nine RBI in his past 16 games, after hitting .231 with six extra-base hits and 12 RBI in 91 at-bats in his previous 24 games.
Etc.: We might want to temper the first-pitch aggressiveness discussions for now, because the approach seems to be working for a lot of Braves.
They lead the NL with a .397 average (98-for-247) when putting the first pitch in play, including 12 home runs.
Kelly J. is 9-for-16 with two homers in those situations, Hoss is 15-for-29 (.517) with two homers, Mark Kotsay is 16-for-33 (.485) with five extra-base hits, and Yunel Escobar is 14-for-30 (.467) with three homers and 11 RBIs.
Couple others of interest to the denizens: Brian McCann has a .355 average (11-for-31) with two first-pitch homers, and Jeff Francoeur is 10-for-31 (.323) with a homer….
On a note of some concern, do you folks realize the Braves have only 10 home runs from outfielders? Only the Dodgers (9) and Nationals (6) have fewer among NL teams.
Kotsay and Francouer have four apiece to lead Braves outfielders. They’re getting no power and very little production in general from left field. But you knew that.
OK, a tune. By the brilliant young bard from Nebraska.
“WE ARE NOWHERE AND IT’S NOW” by Coner Oberst (Bright Eyes)
If you hate the taste of wine
Why do you drink it till you’re blind?
And if you swear that there’s no truth and who cares
How come you say it like you’re right?
Why are you scared to dream of God
When it’s salvation that you want?
You see stars that clear have been dead for years
But the idea just lives on…
In our wheels that roll around
As we move over the ground
And all day it seems we’ve been in between
The past and future town
We are nowhere and it’s now
We are nowhere and it’s now
And for a ten minute dream in the passenger’s seat
While the world was flying by
You haven’t been gone very long
But it feels like a life time
I’ve been sleeping so strange at night
Side effects they don’t advertise
I’ve been sleeping so strange
With a head full of pesticide
I’ve got no plans in too much time
I feel too restless to unwind
I’m always lost in thought as I walk a block
To my favorite neon sign
Where the waitress looks concerned
But she never says a word
Just turns the juke box on and we hum along
And I smile back at her
And my friend comes after work
When the features start to blur
She says these bars are filled with things that kill
By now you probably should have learned
Did you forget that yellow bird?
How could you forget your yellow bird?
She took a small silver wreath and pinned it onto me
She said this one will bring you love
And I don’t know if it’s true
But I keep it for good luck
Comments
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
May 23, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this
me first?!
By bigchiefrg
May 23, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
Gr8 #’s…Good story with this Davis kid pitching tonite. Cancer survivor. Go bravos. First?
By Todd
May 23, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
DOB, hearing mostly positive reports lately on Gonzalez, Smoltz, and Soriano. If all three come off the DL end of this month, or early June, who do you see being the odd men out in a bullpen, that has done a fairly fantastic job so far? i’m assuming Stockman would be one, Campillo and Acosta I believe have options, but as good as they have been can we send them down? Bennett has been good and shaky at times, but if he goes, who would be long relief? Ring? Ohman? Resop?
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
May 23, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
That is why Xavier Nady or Johnny Damon have to be potential pieces to acquire via trade. They will give the Braves that needed production in leftfield.
By 22oz
May 23, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this
So Brayan Pena was one of the hitters who faced Smoltz. His back mush be feeling alot better…His 15 days have to be up soon, right?
By Jersey Gil
May 23, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
DOB Can you clerify a controversy between my friend and myself?… I say that Jorge Campillo was a Braves before this year…Braves signed him in 1996 in the amateur draft as free agent and then released him in 1997.In the Braves web side is not enought stat about him, just from 2005.
By MOTDawg84
May 23, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
DOB, any word on Escobar’s status for today (and the rest of the weekend, for that matter)?
By djscrib
May 23, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this
RE: Todd
There was this same problem early in the season with Smoltz coming off the DL, and it solved itself real quick as people started getting hurt. It’s not a real bad guess to assume 1 pitcher will wind up on the DL between now and them returning.
If Campillo has a good start Sat. there’s no way he goes down. Acosta probably won’t go from being a closer to AAA. I think Ring’s days are numbered when Gonzo returns, and Resop is next on the chopping block. (Stockman will probably go down first).
Unfortunately Ring and Resop are out of options, and while Resop could maybe make it through waivers, Ring would not for sure.
Maybe we should’ve kept Will Startup ;P
By Mike M
May 23, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
Quite possibly the win of the year thus far in this young season for these Braves (last night)…what a nice change to see the team actually manufacturing some runs!…if they can continue to do that and also get some of the weapons in the bullpen healthy….watch out…
By 22oz
May 23, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
Just checked myself. Pena was disabled on May 5, which means he was able to come off on Tuesday. So whats going on? I hate to see this poor kid getting jerked around like this. All for the sake of Corky Miller? Good grief.
By Josh H
May 23, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this
Speaking of left field:
How is Brandon Jones doing in Richmond? Do you think we’ll see him up in Atlanta at some point during the season?
Kotsay’s four homers are actually a pleasant surprise. He’s not going to hit much more than 15 even in his best years. It’s Frenchy’s four that are out of place. Neither Diaz nor Blanco are going to give you 20 homers a year but, it was much more excusable for Diaz when he was hitting closer to .350
By ellaguru
May 23, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this
Got a lot of pleasure watching that ballgame last night. And today looks good because I just bought about 10 used Prince CDs. Oh, baby.
By TennesseePaul
May 23, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the Blog DOB.
By Steeledawg
May 23, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
I am with you DOB on the old school uniforms. Get rid of the Sunday red and new blue road jerseys. The regular ones are classic and one of the best in my opinion.
My favorite NFL throwbacks are the Detriot Lions. They are so ugly and plain, yet the look so cool.
By Johnny Damon
May 23, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this
No way you want me, I’m washed up and have a three year old girl’s arm.
By BossLady
May 23, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this
GO BRAVES!!!
GO BRAVES!!!!
GO BRAVES!!!!
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!
That’s All
By Josh M
May 23, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
Love the post, but your old journalism professor would murder you.
By Todd
May 23, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
Thanks djscrib, I agree with you as to who should go, was just wondering if someone less deserving might get sent down to avoid losing anyone to waivers. Like you said though a lot could happen between now and then, someone could have a setback, or someone else have to go on DL.
By FloridaBrave
May 23, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
Robert(Chipper is the Best),
If we acquire Damon-and that would only happen if the Yankees are woefully out of the race and they eat a huge chunk of the salary- then we’d have him next year since he’s still under contract an d we’d block Schafer, who might provide simlar production at a far less price.
On the other hand, with Nady, we can play LF this year. The next year we can re-sign Kotsay, shift him to LF to make room for Schafer, and give Nady a look at 1B. We could also use him off the bench next year, because unlike Damon, he doesn’t have the high salary like Damon which would makes us obligated to start him.
You had it right last blog mentioning Nady and Rivera. I’d forget Damon.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 23, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
Gotta say that Resop has largely redeemed himself over the past couple of weeks. I was ready to let him go for nothing. Well done, Roger.
Not that Resop, rather than Acosta, should stay in Atlanta when a roster move needs to be made. (Acosta has options, Resop doesn’t.)
But gee, you think the Braves might actually get something more than a bag of balls for The Artist Formerly Known as Resuck if they must ship him out?
By OrlandoFan
May 23, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
22oz on Pena: I thought the same thing. Feeling much better. Hope they keep him, though, and dummy Corky.
By Josh H
May 23, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
Jersey Gil:
From what I remember from watching a Braves broadcast, Campillo was signed by the Braves back in 96. They then “traded” him, for lack of a better word, to the Mexican League.
I don’t know anything else about it so I’m not sure if my word is enough to end the bet.
and to Robert (Chipper is the Best): Johnny Damon? The dude is in serious decline and seriously overpaid. We probably have better options in the minors at this point. Nady is playing out of his mind right now. Real numbers are a bit closer to .280 and about 20 homers a year. Production that exists are left fielders right now.
I do agree though. Left field is one of those locations where you’d love to have a power bat.
By eric the elder
May 23, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this
The only team in our division with a winning record both at home and on the road is Florida. Maybe that’s why they are in first place.
By Braveheart
May 23, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this
My favorite NFL throwbacks are the Detriot Lions. They are so ugly and plain, yet the look so cool.
Especially when Barry Sanders wore them
By Josh H
May 23, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
I absolutely butchered one of the sentences in my last post:
“Production that exists are left fielders right now.”
How about, production that exceeds our left fielders right now? Its Friday, is that a valid excuse? :)
By Jersey Gil
May 23, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this
Josh Brandon Jones is Batting only 277 in 45 games with Richmond, i don’t see him any time soon until Sep in the Mayor…The Stat is scary me is he got 41 SO, More than Thorman (36).
By ncscoots
May 23, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this
They’re getting no power and very little production in general from left field. But you knew that.
But bloggers didn’t want to hear that in March, when a few voices in the wilderness brought up the possibility that it might occur.
Unfortunately, Brandon Jones is still left-handed and unable to play center. He’s heating up in Richmond, but is still striking out a little too much, and hasn’t unleashed his power enough to force the Braves to give him a callup.
If the Braves think Infante could spell Kotsay when needed, Jones might still be an option in LF. But he can’t be expected to help against LHP, and that’s where the power outage is probably more significant, I’m guessing.
Still, I’d rather have Jones up than some of the names hurled against the wall for a possible LF “upgrade”. And I’m not knocking Blanco, either. He’s been a fine addition, as far as I can tell, for the player and type of player that he is. He was never supposed to be a run-producing corner OF, anyway.
By Shaun
May 23, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul, replay will very likely increase the number of correct calls. And, if used for questionable homerun calls, most of the time will not increase the length of the game.
Your argument that it will not guarantee 100 percent accuracy is silly. If it increases accuracy without taking anything away from the game, why not use it?
How will it lengthen the game? I just don’t get that at all. Maybe the way you think it will eventually be used will lengthen the game but you seem to be jumping to a lot of conclusions about how replay would be used. Do-overs? Re-positioning? You’re pulling this out of nowhere to try to make your point but no one has every mentioned any of this.
Let’s use Delgado’s homerun as an example. Looking at a replay would have taken a minute at most. It took at least that long for the umpires to get together and then to end the arguments. And, more importantly, they got the call wrong. Most questionable homeruns will be like this. Very few questionable homerun calls, with the number of cameras and angles that are possible these days, are going to be inconclusive.
By Chop Chop
May 23, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
The Braves’ home dominance and their road ineptitude should both start to even out some. That ridiculous .397 first-pitch BABIP will come down some if any of the Braves’ future opponents read this blog. Seems like the Braves are getting waaaaaaaaaay too many good first pitches to hit. If the opposition adjusts, we’ll probably be back in the soup again on the blog (“Why won’t these guys stop swinging at the first pitch??!?!?!” will be the rule of the day here).
By chuckw/deadjournalist
May 23, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this
Josh H -
Brandon Jones is hitting about .275, with 14 doubles and two homers in about 185 at bats. His numbers are proportionately similar to Joe Borchard (although Borchard has about 70 less at bats.)
Although the production is low right now, I doubt the Braves would want to loose the roster flexibility Blanco gives them (if he were to be optioned back to AAA).
don -
it was good stopping by the shop a couple weeks ago. wish i had more time (and $) to spend when i was there.
22oz -
the pena vs. miller debate has its merits, although you can’t deny miller’s arm. given as well and as much as mccann is playing, i’m not sure any back-up catcher could be making much of an offensive contribution in such a limited role.
the braves love the veteran mentor, at the catcher position - they even have sal fasano stashed at AAA backing up clint sammons (who is putting up solid numbers, btw).
By Jersey Gil
May 23, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
Damm…is he was with the braves in 1996, he was 18 yr old…He look like older than 29.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 23, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
scoots,
Agreed on Blanco. He’s a very nice 4th outfielder and I appreciate his ability to work the count. Just not the sort of bopper you’d play every day in left or right.
Heck, he’s so effective he’d hit 9th for Tony LaRussa!
By Braveheart
May 23, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
10Paul, it’s funny how almost everything can be related back to a show about nothing
By DAP
May 23, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this
i think the braves have realy turned the corner on this home stand. the series against the A’s showed a different type of team…coming from behind, have great at bats, making the pitcher work…this is good stuff.
i believe the braves are clicking now and will take it on the road and play well. i also think they will continue to win ALOT at home.
By chuckw/deadjournalist
May 23, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
here’s the thing on nady: his career .ave, .obp and .slg are basically the same as diaz’s. actually, is ops and slg are about the same, but the ave is about 40 points worse.
By ncscoots
May 23, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
The next year we can re-sign Kotsay, shift him to LF to make room for Schafer
Uh, if Kotsay is healthy enough and performs well enough to make a re-signing worthwhile, what in the world makes you think he won’t get a two- or three-year offer from some team needing a CF? What possible incentive could he have for signing a one-year deal with the Braves?
By Cody
May 23, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
Everyon laughed at me at the beginning of the season about aquiring Nady now just about everyone wants him. I knew Diaz was not going to hit .330 this year and that is because NL pitchers had yet to adjust to him. He is a average hitter that was getting first pitches to hit and he took advantage of that. Now pitchers take him seriously and pitch him like a great hitter. Blanco is fast but I just don’t think he will be any better than an average player. As for B. JOnes this guy is a waist of time and is a AAAA player. He will be a good one to send in the trade for Nady. I say trade for nady and send Diaz and B. Jones for hime. Then use nady as a primary left fielder and use Blanco in the way he has been used up to this point. Basically we swap Diaz and Nady but the fact is Nady has a better track record than Diaz. Plus nady is a better overall pinch hitter than Diaz and I am sure the Bobby would use X in that copacity when he isn’t starting. I say another starter and LF and this team will be primed to pound the snakes in the NLCS and whip the bloody soxs in the World Series. We are the deepest team in the majors. We are weathering the injury bug right now, but at 100% capacity this is a 100 win team.
By ncscoots
May 23, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Other posters re Brandon Jones have not, I believe, taken into account his early struggles and recent success. The kid had a brutal April (sound familiar?), but has hit over .300 in his last ten games and is hitting with more authority. A coincidence of similarity with Joe Borchard re season numbers is just that.
I don’t think he’s ready to come up, either, but he’ll be ready long before Joe Borchard, LOL.
By ncgary
May 23, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
What possible incentive could he have for signing a one-year deal with the Braves?
opposite coast home field discount? snark
By StingerSplash
May 23, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
(Maybe the Braves need to wear the blue tops at home just once, see if that can’t get them off the schnied and let the home mojo magic wear off on em.) (or since they’re talking openly about talking the whites with them, some of their hosts over the next week often opt for an alternate jersey as well. who’s to say the braves can’t bust out the whites on the road just in case? ok, maybe Darth Selig can (cue the music) or his minion Lord Dupuy).
By Dylan
May 23, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
DOB - Do you think they will actually retire the blue away unis? They looked sharp but played like Jorge Sosa after the all star break. GEEZ!
By Dick
May 23, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
Two weaknesses so far. First base and left field. Tex is not the solution to first. Defense is iffy, offense is a joke. He doesn’t need to be batting clean up.
By doc
May 23, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
well dave you are in the mood today, smooth as silk and mellow. a good winning streak will do that to everyone.
as far as uni’s give me the old fashion simple greys with a blue tommahawk on the chest, the chief on the sleeve and the reds for the sunday show.
enjoy your work with 680, especially in the am as i head to do some volunteer work. great line the first show i keep chuckliing over. you were talking about the first time you saw REM in lawrence, ka. it went something like this, “you couldnt understand any of the lyrics but you sure knew it was cool”. that is a summary of what i usually get from almost al music as i never can hear the words and assume it must be cool if it has good beat and sound.
team seems to be winning folks over as it becomes its own personality. it would be fun to get at least a world series out of the stud at first and then to get lucky and sign him because the attendance figures go up so dramatically that they assume they can pay him.
i know you asked it about jj for roy how about wren for early leader for gm of the year?
btw, i heard kotsay the other day suggesting the whites for the road to hang in the lockers on the pm 680 show as his input as a vet as to what they need to do. kind of fun to see the guys so loose, kind of reminds me of the rally cap days of ‘91 or so.
By Dick
May 23, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
Two weaknesses so far. First base and left field. Tex is not the solution to first. Defense is iffy, offense is a joke. He doesn’t need to be batting clean up.
By FloridaBrave
May 23, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
ncscoots,
Uh, who said anything about a one year deal. 2 yrs, 14 mil seems plausible. He can hold the fort for yet another young guy- Jason Heyward.
Whether he plays LF or CF won’t be a huge factor in his decision. Kotsay will remain in Atlanta’s price range after this year, so while I’m sure there’ll be competition for his service, it’s not like we won’t be able to offer a similar deal to that of other clubs- 2 or 3 yrs for 6 or 7 million per year.
It’s not like we’re talking about Tex here…
By BostonBravesGirl
May 23, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
I’m a Braves fan in Boston but since every single Sox game and most Yanks games are televised here (but almost no Braves games), I’ve seen a lot of Johnny Damon and he’s no Brave. Most in Boston are glad he’s gone - he can’t move well and he’s got a Little League arm, plus he’d cost a fortune.
By MattyRoss
May 23, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
I really don’t think the outfield offensive production is/will continue to be an issue, for a couple of reasons:
One, Frenchy is showing big times signs of waking up. After sitting that game out, he came back and absolutely raked. Chipper was as excited as anyone to see that, and personally I thought, as Joe Simpson pointed out on the broadcast, Jeff keeping his hands inside the ball and not flying open with his hips was hugely encouraging. “Lose an Andruw, gain an Andruw” was what Chipper said this spring. Andruw’s hot streaks were always characterized with his willingness to go to all fields, and it looks like Frenchy is getting back to that himself.
Two, Kelly Johnson. The guy plays second base for us, but when he’s on he’s essentially Pat Burrell with a higher avg. and fewer K’s. Coming up through the system, he was always a middle of the order guy, and an outfielder, as we’re often reminded by his less-than-perfect defense. With those two guys hitting (which they can, and will continue to IMO), we can essentially have 2B production from our LF spot, which is why I LOVE Gregor Blanco in that lineup. Between him, Kotsay, and even Yunel when he’s not ripping doubles, it seems like there’s always a couple guys on base for our big bashers.
Folks, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, and contrary to popular belief, I don’t think it’s broke. The order of the day should be sorting out the bullpen and starters when the time comes. I really think that with the way this team looks right now (obviously subject to change), the Braves are one good starter away from the World Series.
By David-ATL14
May 23, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this
* Attention Greg In TN*
Not going to make it tonight to the Smokies/Braves tilt.
Unexpected drop in, by the in laws. We all know how welcome of a surprise that can be.
Hate it, wanted to try and get together even briefly. Maybe another time.
File a report later tonight if you get a chance.
Solid blog DOB.
By leon
May 23, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
delay? Ppd? Whats the forecast
By Jersey Gil
May 23, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Dick If you ever watch a game before? Your Comment are a joke….Tex is one of the Best defense first baseman in the Mayor.
By Original Jon
May 23, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
Dick
Tex is not the solution to first. Defense is iffy, offense is a joke. He doesn’t need to be batting clean up.
I hope you were joking, seriously hope you were.
By Greg in TN
May 23, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
Afternoon gang…
The Mississip’ team website is reporting that Smoltzie will pitch here tomorrow night in a rehab stint against the home standing Tennessee Smokies. The timing can’t get any better for this denizen. I know the Notorious One will have more information on that once he gets settled in at 755 Hank Aaron drive for tonight’s tilt with the Snakes.
More on Soriano and Tommy Hanson’s night when I return denizens.
Go Braves!
By Greg in TN
May 23, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
David-ATL14
It happens, with Smoltz throwing here tomorrow night, I’m going to try and make that game also, but will definitely have some thoughts when I get back from the other side of the big crater in I-40.
By David-ATL14
May 23, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
** Smoltz going out on rehab tomorrow with the Mississippi Braves (AA).
Pena activated off the DL and then DFA’ed.
Hate to see Pena go, would have preferred him over Miller as the backup catcher.
By bravesfan
May 23, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
Pena DFA.
By rupert
May 23, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
the blue ones are a nice change of pace, don’t have to wear them often, once or twice a week, just something to change the luck whenever needed, i think the blue ones look better than the red ones honestly, but both add a little variety, the traditonal ones are great, but it doesn’t hurt to change things up every now and then, they won’t get rid of either simply because its all marketing, they still sell red ones at a good clip and the blue ones are very hot as well, it’s all a business
By John J.
May 23, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
After seeing other managers try to self-destruct, I am glad that Bobby Cox is the manager of my team!
By Tomahawk Matt
May 23, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
THANKS! Awesome Stats today DOB! I see fewer whiners on the blog when we get to see real numbers posted. DOB IS THE BEST!
I say ditch the blue tops also. They remind me too much of losing in the 80’s for some reason and I’m not sure why. Keep the Sunday red tops though cause they look sweet on my HD TV.
Thanks for the info BostonBravesGirl. I love you!
GO BRAVES!!!
By jbutler
May 23, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
Any thoughts…are the Marlins the real deal - or will they fade like every talking head (and Braves fan..) thinks they will.
Damon is a poser and a weak - at best - ball player. Its amazing how good looks will carry you far. I’d rather see MATT Damon wearing a Braves jersey. Maybe he can put some Bourne-like moves on the field..
By Random
May 23, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
Braveheart, McFann—
Here — this should work.
By Josh H
May 23, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
David-ATL14:
Doubt that would happen. Haven’t we heard that there is interest in Pena for a trade?
By MattyRoss
May 23, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
That’s bad news about Pena. He has a chance to be real good, just always going to be blocked by Mac here. I wonder how Yunel’s going to take that…
By Clown Scientist Panda Man Pretend Monster Toucher Hello What Is Porridge, Exactly?
May 23, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
Dick,
You don’t know your namesake.
By 22oz
May 23, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
Where are ya’ll getting the Pena info? I guess i knew this day would come. I just can’t believe we gave up on him for …Corky Miller.
By ncscoots
May 23, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
2 yrs, 14 mil seems plausible [for Kotsay].
Oh. See, that’s where I was going wrong, because I was unable to comprehend a Braves’ multi-year offer to Kotsay.
I am obviously blind to plausability of that magnitude, LOL.
By McFann
May 23, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Random. Tee hee…
Would be a real shame to lose Pena, but he needs to play, and the Braves would have a real hard time sneaking him through waivers. If he’s gotta go, might as well get something in return. But I hate to see him go.
By sri
May 23, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
for a chuckle..
http://sports.espn.go.com/minorlbb/news/story?id=3409864
By James
May 23, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
WE NEED TO TRADE FOR MADDUX. Here’s my suggestion: Trade Flowers, Diory Hernandez, and Rohrborough for Maddux and Rayner Contreras (he’s their third basemen of the future). Flowers has power, but his fielding skills are never going to be more than adequate. Hernandez is solid, but disposable/replaceable. Rohrborough is going to be a stud, but let’s face it, he’s at least a year (prob more like 2 years) from making an appearance for the big league club. I don’t know, that’s just my suggestion. Obviously I’m not a GM, I just would like another veteran starter and Maddux fits that bill nicely. THOUGHTS?
By TennesseePaul
May 23, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
Payne, aside from you not convincing me that instant replay is necessary for the game if you are unable to see how or why its inclusion takes away from the game then we are at an impasse.
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
Brayan Pena indeed designated for assignment, almost certainly spells end of his Braves career. I’d expect a team to claim him if he’s not traded.
By Jersey Gil
May 23, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
Hey guys,I just heard an interview in 95 the Fan with Dave Wade the Ex Phiilis GM and Houston GM, He said that one of the Trade that the Phillis have couple year ago was Chase Utley,Ryan Mason, and Michael Bourne for Barry Zito…WOW…that one of trade that never happen, Also they are rumors here that the Phillis want to trade Pat Burrell for Ryan Zimmerman of the Nat.
By Scott from Fairburn
May 23, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
Why Porky over Pena?
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Smoltz will rehab at AA Ol’ Miss on Saturday night. Wouldn’t surprise me if he’s with the Braves to start the road trip Tuesday.
I’ll know more when we talk to Cox after the their D-backs scouting meeting
By Random
May 23, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Here’s the Smokies’ website for anyone who wants to buy tickets on-line.
By eric the elder
May 23, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
If the rumor is true, then it’s like trading Pena to another team for Quirky Miller.
That doesn’t pass muster, in my view.
By TJ
May 23, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
Where are ya’ll getting the Pena info? I guess i knew this day would come. I just can’t believe we gave up on him for …Corky Miller.
Braves obviously had ZERO confidence in him as a catcher. He was nothing but a bat off the bench for us (and not exactly a slugger), and without a position, was expendable when Infante came back.
Sammons is the future at backup catcher for the next 2 or 3 years at least, unless we trade him for something more valuable.
By Clown Scientist Panda Man Pretend Monster Toucher Hello What Is Porridge, Exactly?
May 23, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
Wow. I know Pena never showed too much (or had much opportunity to), but I wonder if he was in someone’s dog house.
I love Bobby, but sometimes I feel there’s a bit of Alex Gibbs (zone-blocking offensive line guru) in him … maybe a bit of pride in saying, “Look, I can even win with scrubs like Corky” (much like Gibbs’ saying “Look, I can win with all 7th-round or undrafted linemen).
Actually, scratch that. That theory’s kinda dumb.
By FloridaBrave
May 23, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
ncscoots,
Why wouldn’t the Braves offer Kotsay a multi-year contract? He’s playing great, has proven healthy thus far, he’s adored in the clubhouse, and he’ll come at a fair price.
He’s proven to be a great stopgap for Schafer and there’s no reason to think he can’t play the role again for Heyward.
Again, we’re not talking about Tex here….
By Rob
May 23, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
Dont know if anyone heard this, but Smoltzy will be making a rehab appearance for Mississippi on saturday
By DAP
May 23, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
re pena DFA: that really sux. i dont like it at all…at the least we should have sent corky down and had pena up here utnil we could trade him. the backup catcher doesnt do much catching up here anyways.
i just dont get it…why corky over pena? was pena that bad of a catcher? i really dont understand.
i hate this move.
By Fidel Castro
May 23, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this
Brayan, ask the man in the white suit and the white hat for a white flag and you can come back home.
Cuba claims Pena off waivers.
By tvsportscaster
May 23, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this
I’ve said on this blog several times, Brayan Pena had no future in Atlatna, because the Braves pitchers absolutely hated throwing to Pena behind the plate. He was brutal back there, so there was no reason to keep him around, especially after the acquisition of Norton and Gotay.
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
BOBBY COX SIGNS ONE-YEAR CONTRACT EXTENSION through 2009. Gotta go to press conference right now.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 23, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
Hate to see Pena go. Then again he reminded me a bit of Johnny Estrada — decent average, not much power, OK behind the plate. Not good enough to start for a contender but a reasonable backup.
I don’t know how he was as a catch-and-throw guy, and from his last start, Corky seems to be just fine in that role. Especially if he’s going to start no more than 30-40 games.
By StingerSplash
May 23, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
You step away from the blog for a moment and look at what you miss — a DFA for Pena. This work thing has to stop so I can devote more time to the more meaningful pursuits, such as the Braves blog.
By FloridaBrave
May 23, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
James,
I don’t see anyway we include Rohrbough in a deal for Maddux unless Adrian Gonzalez or Jake Peavy is included. Rohrbough is such an amazing talent.
RE: Pena,
Yeah, he was pretty bad defensively and I heard the Braves pitchers didn’t really like throwing to him. He’s a young, switch-hitting catcher so he must certainly has value but he has a long way to go defensively and I didn’t even like his swing that much. I don’t see us losing much here.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 23, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
Cox signs one-year extension. Robert has cow.
By TJ
May 23, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
Wow, great news (IMO) on Cox.
As to Pena, I can’t remember reading a single post, since he went to the DL, saying: “Boy, we’ll be much better when Brayan Pena gets back.”
Nothing against him. Hope things work out. But he was just not a key part of this team, and never would’ve been.
By FloridaBrave
May 23, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this
Tremendous news on Cox, that could have a positive domino affect on the decisions of Chipper(but moreso), Glavine, and Smoltz as to whether to play past this season.
By Salty
May 23, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
obviously blind to plausability
Scoots Come clean…did you type that correctly the first time? LOL! I can’t say it three times!
If Tex walks, Kotsay becomes even more attractive, in my view. He has the experience, veteran presence, and if his back holds up all season, the athleticism to, perhaps, learn another position…first base? I’ll duck now!
By Met hater
May 23, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
OT if you will. What’s the deal with the “Yippie!!! I’m first in line” routine? Congrats, you’re the first guy to post here today, which naturally makes you very special. DOB, how about a permanent moratorium on lame posts that begin and end with “Me first?!”
By JamieInRichmond
May 23, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
Hate the move to designate Brayan. I’ve always thought he got a rotten deal with Atl…last year, he was hit in the head with a backswing, and was never given a chance to win back his job. This year, he goes on the DL, and this time its cost him his Braves uni. If Brayan’s not the Braves’ cup of tea, that’s their perogative, as much as I failt to udnerstand why. But having Corky Miller on the roster in lieu of ANYBODY is absurd. Defensively, offensievely, and on thebasepaths, he’s awful. Pena gave us speed, flexibility, a better bat, and a great attitude. All I know is, if Corky’s better with the glove than Pena, it aint by much, and any positive gained there is moot when considering all that’s lost by having Miller on the team over Pena. I really, really dislike this move…
By TennesseePaul
May 23, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
Awesome news about Cox!
Congratulations Cox!
By FloridaBrave
May 23, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
Salty,
Kotsay has played 1st before so that’s no absurd. I would think his defense would be a little bit more valuable in LF though. Him subbing at 1B now-and-then will undoubtedly be an option though.
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
May 23, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
I say give BC a lifetime contract and let him stay as long as he wants. If not as a manager than anywhere he wants to be and do. We as fans have enjoyed unparalleled success with him around and the Braves have risen to league-best heights.
Go Bravos and another Happy Birthday to Bobby Cox !!!
By FJR
May 23, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Considering going to go see Jason Isbell tonight at the Soul Bar. You have any idea if he has a backing band called The 400 Unit? Can’t figure out if that is another act or his backing band. Not a huge fan of his pure solo guitar playing, seems to oddly waver the tempo way too much for my taste in that format.
Also, if you’ve never heard of him, you should try to check out a cat named Shaun Piazza (no relation to Mike). Right up your musical alley, I believe.
Click on the song “blue”
Speaking of Mike Piazza, has anybody seen the ridiculous article on Page 2 about Mike? I’m not the biggest Piazza fan in the world but this guy is just a whiny idiot. He tries to equate Piazza not being good at sliding with him being a poor athlete. He obviously never saw Mike Vick try to slide. I’d like to hear him try to say that Sid Bream was a better athlete than Vick, because Bream could slide better.
By Murphy
May 23, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
Ugh. I was so hoping they would release Corky Miller.
By daniel
May 23, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this
DOB- Not coming down on you or nitpicking, but that’s twice I’ve seen you call the AA team Ol’ Miss. As a Mississippi State Alum, it sure makes it hard to like my local minor league team when you hang a moniker like “Ol’ Miss” on them….That only means one thing over here, and those of us with good sense don’t like it. Great blog, and looks like it’ll be a busy/long night at the ballpark.
By tim-braves lifer
May 23, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
Well DOB i guess all the Bobby Cox haters are gonna be ticked that they will have to wait to bury him. Most Braves fans know that he is without question one of the BEST to ever manage in the bigs!!!
By Chop Chop
May 23, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
Bobby Cox gets an extension through ‘09.
Bah.
I’m reminded of the lyric from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers song “Even the Losers”:
Yeah, life is such a drag when you’re livin’ in the past
As good as Bobby has been over the years, I want new blood at the helm. Some of you won’t agree with me, and that’s just fine. However, Bobby’s 67 years old and this season is probably his last good shot at postseason play. I believe extending him through next year is a mistake, but I hope I’m wrong.
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
May 23, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this
met hater
You are a tool and a douchebag. What is the big deal about “first”. It’s not any different from people who call “shotgun” when getting in the car. I know you’ve done it too.
Lighten up, dinglenuts.
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop, your view on Cox is quite different than the players and coaches I just talked to, on and off the record. Including one from the Arizona side and a bunch of Braves.
One of those was Kotsay, who said knowing Cox will be back would be nice to know if he comes back here to play. He said the experience playing for Cox has been even better than all he heard from other players before he came here.
By ALAGT
May 23, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this
DOB, Really concern about Escobar’s makeup with the departureof Pena. I heard you say he was really down. Such a young guy, make have a long term effect! What do you think?
By OrlandoFan
May 23, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this
You tell ‘em, Daniel From a USM grad.
By Mike in LA
May 23, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this
JamieinRichmond, I agree with you 100 percent. I always liked Bryan Pena. In the starts that he had at catcher last year I never felt that there was a big drop off in offensive production when Mccann was out of the lineup. And although he does not standout defensively I’ve never seen anything to indicate that he’d be a liability back there. Crappy move. Putting a positive spin on it, hopefully it means that Clint Salmons will get called up at some point this season. Lets face it whenever the Braves felt that he was ready Pena was going to be expendable anyway. Until then hopfully Bobby can work Corky into games against weaker pitchers so that Corky doesn’t come up in late innings in 2-1 games
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this
Completely overshadowed by all the news is the fact that Escobar is back in the lineup.
Yes, he was really down about the Pena news. Just shook his head when I asked him couple questions about it.
Long-term effects? No. Can’t see that.
By Deep Throat
May 23, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this
Breaking News:
Reuters: Neighbors report single gunshot rang out from Braves/MIB blog member Robert’s house shortly after Atlanta Braves’ manager Bobby Cox was given a one year extension.
..Joe Simpson made a good point yesterday. Would the Braves have won yesterday is Escobar was healthy? Escobar would have been at shortstop, and the game’s MVP, Kelly Johnson, likely would have been sitting against Santana. Let Kelly Johnson play everyday already.
Johnson has the best career batting average against tonight’s Diamondback starter Doug Davis; .667.
By Rman
May 23, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this
Does anyone have any news about Mike Hampton? He seems to have completely fallen of the radar scope. Obviously not counting on him for anything, but he seems to have vanished from any talk about pitchers rehab these days.
By Chop Chop
May 23, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Believe me, dude. I know my opinion is different. Players and coaches have no real choice but to live in the moment. Bobby’s a great guy and has been a top manager in baseball for a long time. That is a fact.
However, the question I ask is this:
When is the right time to let a guy go?
I have no doubt that Bobby will get the opportunity to manage this team until he makes the decision not to. However, I don’t think that is the best thing for the long-term future of the organization. Wren obviously believes it is, so if his judgment about extending Bobby through next year is as good as the Jurrjens deal, then I’m all for it.
(If I were the GM, I’d wait to see how this year goes before extending him. If that’s disrespectful, so be it. Missing the playoffs this season would mean three straight years without postseason play. Terry Francona didn’t get a contract extension last year until the day of Game 1 of the 2007 World Series. He seemed to do his job just fine.)
By richbrave
May 23, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this
Well the little gambit with BRAYAN PENA went a-glimmering. I for one don’t expect to see him back here in Richmond. He’ll never clear waivers. If he does, knock me over with a feather. Sure was hoping we could pull in a future Jair Jurrgens for him.
By KLB
May 23, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
DOB - For those of us heading to the game tonight, has there been any announcement on whether the start is going to be delayed because of the rain?
By AMG
May 23, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this
Rman - I believe DOB reported on the blog yesterday that Hampton played catch.
John Smoltz is doing everything in his power short of trying to pitch left handed to get back… Hampton played catch for the first time in several weeks.
Nice
By Nelson
May 23, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this
DOB. Yes Kelly is hot now, but he is not a good second base palayer and wil never be. So I think the best for the team is to give him back his job at left field (Matt is not doing good) and play Infante or Gotay at second.
By Shaun
May 23, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul, never said replay was necessary. In my opinion it would make the game better because it would increase the number of correct calls on big plays without using any extra time, if used in certain situations. It’s as simple as that.
By THB
May 23, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this
MLBTradeRumors says Harden would take one good prospect…
By McFann
May 23, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this
Pena’s gone?? Dang it!
I always liked Pena—his attitude and all that. I don’t really buy into the whole “our pitcher’s hated to throw to him” thing. I mean “hate”? Come on…
By Mark
May 23, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this
Totally agree with DOB on the Red Unis. They are AWFUL!!! Why mess with the classic whites? You can’t beat them.
Plus, playing in Sunday Red during the hot summer days (as we all know, Sunday games are almost always during the day) attracts more heat and creates a competitive disadvantage.
By Deep Throat
May 23, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this
Yes Kelly is hot now, but he is not a good second base palayer and wil never be.
He’s not as bad as you think he is. Also, just who the heck are you to declare “and will never be”?
Doing what you suggest would mean taking Blanco/Diaz out of the lineup and replacing them with the horrible Omar Infante, he of the career .299 OBP in over 1,600 major league at-bats.
By THB
May 23, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
Nelson, what does it solve by putting Kelly in LF and starting Gotay at 2nd? All it will do is show our flaw at 2nd instead of LF. Infante wouldn’t have a spectacular season, but he could manage a .260 season. Blanco is doing fine in LF, and as long as hes getting on base with, Im good with it.
By djscrib
May 23, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
RE: Kelly Johnson
Would people quit saying he came up as an outfielder in the minors.
The guy was a college SS. He was drafted as a SS. He played SS in the minor leagues. He was converted to LF in 2004 due to our craptastic LF options at that time (Langerhans), and the fact we had Fookie at SS. He played SS in the minors for the first 4 years (2000-2003).
So yes he can play the OF, but it’s not like 2007 was the first time the guy has ever set foot in the infield.
By djscrib
May 23, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
RE: Kelly Johnson
Would people quit saying he came up as an outfielder in the minors.
The guy was a college SS. He was drafted as a SS. He played SS in the minor leagues. He was converted to LF in 2004 due to our craptastic LF options at that time (Langerhans), and the fact we had Fookie at SS. He played SS in the minors for the first 4 years (2000-2003).
So yes he can play the OF, but it’s not like 2007 was the first time the guy has ever set foot in the infield.
By djscrib
May 23, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this
RE: Kelly Johnson
Would people quit saying he came up as an outfielder in the minors.
The guy was a college SS. He was drafted as a SS. He played SS in the minor leagues. He was converted to LF in 2004 due to our craptastic LF options at that time (Langerhans), and the fact we had Fookie at SS. He played SS in the minors for the first 4 years (2000-2003).
So yes he can play the OF, but it’s not like 2007 was the first time the guy has ever set foot in the infield.
By McFann
May 23, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this
BTW—Great news about Bobby!!
Let’s go Braves!!
By met hater
May 23, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
Good one, Captain Jacknuts (the original moron). Shouldn’t you be out delivering pizzas right now?
By Jeff321
May 23, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
Classic Bobby Cox move.. Booting Pena and keeping Corky Miller?! Oh right, Cox needed to replace Pete Orr’s bat on the bench in order to get a good nights rest, eh.
By McFann
May 23, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this
The D-backs have played well at home this year, winning 19 of their 27 games at Chase Field, but the road has not been as friendly. It’s something that Melvin finds perplexing. “The one I’m having trouble with is the home and road one,” he said.
Lovely……
By PlayTex
May 23, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this
Mike Hampton reported that he was having slight abrasions from his new underwire bra. He was fitted only last month by a team of experts from the factory. With this latest setback, Hampton said his timetable was reset to the Fourth of July in the hopes he could be independent of all ailments since he couldn’t think of any he hadn’t already claimed to have had.
By TennesseePaul
May 23, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this
never said replay was necessary
Alright Payne, as long as you acknowledge that instant replay is unnecessary great… No need to add an unnecessary dimension to the game. Now someday you’ll see that if it’s in the game for one play it is only a matter of time before it is in the game for all plays… from there you’ll be able to see how it would alter the actions of umps and duration of the game…
By bruce
May 23, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this
anybody else rooting for Langy to stick and do well with the Nats?anybody else have a langy braves Tshirt? I’m rooting for him… glad to see he is back up now.
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this
Smoltz will throw either one or two innings at Double-A Miss St. tomorrow night, depending on pitch count. Bobby said no decision made beyond that. Sounds like he could be activated after one game, but it’s totally up in the air. Just gonna see how he feels….
Someone asked: Yes, game’s starting on time. Rain stopped some time ago here, tarp’s not out. In fact, they’re watering the infield….
Deep Throat: That post about the single gunshot made me laugh out loud in the pressbox.
By MiamiBrave
May 23, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
lets hope to keep it going tonight
GO BRAVOS!
By Dutchie
May 23, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
Hey denizens.
Lets keep the good run going tonight. Last two nights were awesome!! As allways, enjoyed reading some quality beat-writing DOB. It’s hard to explain here in Holland what a ‘beat-writer’ is, but this blog is what I tell people to read. Only good reactions untill now!
btw, I browesed the ajc.com page a bit. What’s the US ‘freak’ about petrol prices? 3,85$ a gallon…. I’ll let all of you in on your future…. Here a liter of petroll goes for € 1,66. That makes for: 1,811,59 (exchange rate on the $)3,8 (liters in a gallon)makes $ 10,94 a gallon…..
Just keep that future in mind whilst thinking about the kind of car you’ll want next time around :).
Anyway, let’s hope for another great outing by Jo-Jo.
GO Braves!!
By JimD
May 23, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
“DOB. Yes Kelly is hot now, but he is not a good second base palayer and wil never be. So I think the best for the team is to give him back his job at left field (Matt is not doing good) and play Infante or Gotay at second.” - Nelson
I see your point, Nelson, but consider the exchange. You really can’t play Infante everyday at 2B, that is not why we got him - his job is to be SuperSub, play all over the diamond.
Yet if you play Gotay over Diaz/Blanco you really aren’t gaining a whole offensively and you have no one to come off the bench to fill in at 2B or 3B when needed except Infante. And what do you do if he is already in the game.
Just think it messes up the bench. KJ plays a pretty good second base, he’s no Sandburg, or Hubby, but he does a good job and he is finally starting to hit. No need to tinker.
By Chop Chop
May 23, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop’s Baseball Replay Proposal
Replay may be used for determining fan interference, catch attempts, plays on the basepaths, and determining whether or not a home run has been batted.
Managers receive two challenges per game (no more, no less). Umpires may still conference together during the first eight innings after questionable plays if they choose. If umpires overturn a call made on the field, a manager may challenge the changed ruling.
In the ninth inning and extras, all questionable plays will be automatically reviewed by an ump upstairs. They will buzz the home plate ump to let him know a review is taking place. The umpire will call time, announce that a review is taking place, and give the “Play Ball!” after receiving the booth decision and making any necessary changes regarding outs, bases occupied, or runs scored. A booth review is final.
By bruce
May 23, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
David: who is C. E. ?
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
May 23, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this
met hater
Jacknuts?? Did you hear that term on TV today??
I know what show you were watching earlier.
And now just for you ——-
143rd!!!!!!!!!!!!
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
Bruce, it’s the Crusading Everyman, derisively dubbed by an annoyed blogger some time back (I added the capitalization for emphasis).
By jbutler
May 23, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this
Dutchie Sorry to burst your balloon - but the ‘ol “we have it so much worse so quit your gripin” just doesn’t fly. Living in a neighborhood where there’s 10 homes being foreclosed on, everyday expenses rising (gas/food) and not many (if any) raises being given in addition to cutting back coverage on a pretty pitiful health plan anyway - it is a big deal. Keep your lectures on the other side of the pond!!!
Quick question actually relevant to this here blog…how is a rehab assignment determined? What’s the benefit to Smoltz pitching at AA and possibly hitting the pen here in Atl, rather than going to Richmond? Just curious…
By Dutchie
May 23, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
On last nights blog… of course JJ is the NL rookie of the year. Not that that is supported by the facts (great job there DOB), but just chauvinism:). But I’m still empressed as hell by how he’s develloped. Makes for a nasty dillema as well. If JJ does well, then he’ll last all season. At the current rate, that will mean offseason as well (hey, I’m an optimist as well as a realist!). That means he’ll be out the Dutch olympic squad…..
Anyway, since the Braves have kind of a linking for Dutch Curacao, a little tip for the future of CF (no kidding, CF:)). Check out Wladimir Blentien. Gotta love that name. Brought up from AAA end of july, in the Mariners organisation, together with Jeff Clement. He’s lasting, Clement didn’t. His numbers (slugging!) aren’t too impressive yet, but he’s a good defensive player and a true big hitter. Just for anyone who’s curious:)
It’s 01.30 am here, so…..Let’s play ball!
Go Braves!
By Dutchie
May 23, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
Just a quick note on the outfield HR. Balentien has hit 4 of them in about 14 games since being moved up. As a 22 year rookie, that is:).
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this
This blister thing with Jo-Jo is a concern. Thought i saw him showing the blister finger to Roger during that mound conference….
By the way, Braves are looking for a starter, but I’m led to believe it’s not active searching, more like keeping their ears open in case something comes up.
Could Maddux come back? It’s possible. But not something they’ve actively explored, at least not yet.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 23, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this
Holy Cornelia, JoJo’s getting clocked …
By Braveheart
May 23, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this
Dammit, Jojo. You gave up a homer. So what? Shake it off. He makes one mistake and gets so upset about it, he makes 5 mistakes.
By TURTSNAP
May 23, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this
Oh well, time to pop a movie in the DVD player. I don’t understand Jo-Jo
By Scott from Fairburn
May 23, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this
Ho-Ho Reyes … what can you say
By McFann
May 23, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
What the HECK?
Ugh…I can’t STAND Eric Byrnes!!
By MAV
May 23, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
Jo Jo is just complete garbage. He will never be a major league caliber pitcher. Bring up ANY reliever and put Bennett in the rotation.
By uga-brave
May 23, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
look i dont condone beaning anybody, but byrnes needs one up and in on his next at bat.
could you take longer to run the bases.
By Efrim
May 23, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
Wow. Jo Jo has good stuff, and it may be the blister, but you gotta learn to command those pitches. Still early, but 5-0 is going to be tough to overcome. Go Braves….
By Overlord
May 23, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
Im very positive today…….down 0-5? I still think we can pull this one out…..braves are hot.
By ncgary
May 23, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness…” Mark Twain
By princetonbrave
May 23, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
Can’t win ‘em all.
When you’ve got a minor league pitcher on the hill, this will happen from time to time. I like our chances better with a veteran who knows how to pitch, but does not have dynamic stuff - rather than pitchers who arent ready to play major league ball.
By StingerSplash
May 23, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this
Perhaps the top of the first will help expedite the Braves’ search for another starter. Reyes is way too inconsistent at this point. That was one brutal inning.
By Overlord
May 23, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this
We found out in the 1st inning that Arizona is a team good enough, not to throw away opportunities. Walks??? runs……..
They still have not showed that they are not beatable bye us.
By Braveheart
May 23, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this
Good heads up with the blister thing, DOB. That would explain the inability to locate in that first inning. He seemed bothered in that inning. I presumed it was just JoJo reverting back to getting all flustered by a mistake like last year. But that blister thing makes sense.
By Shamus Thacker
May 23, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this
Time for Jo-Jo to Go-Go.
By Overlord
May 23, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this
Im not sure about numbers, but i think we are not good at playing catch baseball. But sure we can catch them…..go braves!!!!!
By midtownBrave
May 23, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
Blister or no blister this JoJo is not a reliable pitcher. It is easy to blame a bad outing on a blister, but that doesn’t mean that the reason for the bad outing is that freaking blister. JoJo just needs to pitch with better control.
I am not saying he will never be a consistent #3-4 starter, but this is not what the Braves need right now.
Bring up Charlie Morton please.
By AMG
May 23, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this
Down 0-5 in the first inning with two homeruns? Is Chuck James pitching?
I think this Blister is more of an issue than we may have originally thought.
By McFann
May 23, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
Uga-Brave—
OK!!
Also, his little “flair” after every swing is obnoxious! YUCK…
By midtownBrave
May 23, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
Yeah, I’m hoping we can still pull this off!
By geauxbraves2000
May 23, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this
I think it’s time for a move for a veteran SP. We all know Hampton is not going to be a major factor this season, if a factor at all. A top of the line starter would be excellent, but not at the expense of the farm. Another innings eater who gives the team a chance to win more often than not sounds good to me. If the Braves could find at least another #3, then Campillo could possibly step in for #5. At least with him the Braves have a chance to win from the #5 slot.
Okay, I’m done for now. Let’s root for a Brave comeback!!
Geaux Braves!!
By Shamus Thacker
May 23, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
I find it hard to believe summa these pitchers ain’t liquored-up. I know I would be. Jo-Jo musta ate [yankees, before I’m corrected, I’d like to point out that I know the word is EATEN!] with the umps this afternoon.
Somebody wanted word on Hammy. I got one; WUSS!
I’d like to attend his next “side-session.” My lungs and vocal chords need an industrial-strength workout.
By Efrim
May 23, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
Annnddddddddd Justin Upton punches every Braves fan in the stomach…..
How many line drives have we hit off lefthanders the last two days???
By Overlord
May 23, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
Sooooooooo close to being back 5-3……damn it!!!!!!!!!!
By chrisklob
May 23, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this
Shamus, are you related to Robert?
By LuisGuillermo
May 23, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
Why don’t we trade Pena?
By McFann
May 23, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
Hey guys, McCann scored from second on a single!!
Tellin’ ya what…
By Braveheart
May 23, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
The Braves are gonna win this game
By Logan23
May 23, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
Salty just hit a slam for Texas
By LuisGuillermo
May 23, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
The rally is on. Go get them Teixeira!
By Braveheart
May 23, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
Chipper is sick. Just sick. He’s also played in 137 of the last 144 games and is batting .373. Sick. Just sick.
By Dutchie
May 23, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
Jbutler I never said ‘we’ve got it so much worse’. That’s in your reception of my post. It was a genuine insight into gasprices up here, which will be in the future anywhere (it’s running out, basic economics!), nothing more, because of the report on ajc.com on the ‘gas’action by the Braves (therefore it triggered my post). Didn’t mean to get you into a twist about US - European relations :). If I did, I appologise.
Let’s hope there will be another rally or two tonight. We need it!
Go Braves!
By Wayne in Utah
May 23, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this
Love the Mets series. I was hoping we could finish off the year with no more losses, but alas, I guess that is not to be.
I was wondering though, how long it would take for some of the denizens to hop on the “Jo Jo stinks” train. I guess they don’t remember his last start.
Sometimes you gotta give the kids a chance to grow up. Glavine totally sucked for his first year or so. As I recall, Maddux too.
Great news on Bobby’s new contract. Also, hate to see Pena go, but I am guessing there was no confidence in his catching abilities, or else we would have never heard of Corky Miller.
How long before Sammons gets a call up?
I would love to see more of Resop, since he seems to have righted himself. Would be a shame to send him packing, and then have him flourish elsewhere.
Sorry for the long post.
By jbutler
May 23, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
McFann I’m w/you in general dislike of Eric Byrne..he was a complete obnoxious dough head when he played in the NLCS for Arizona against the Rox last Fall. The best revenge is that he was the final out sending the Rox to the World Series. As they were celebrating he was making faces at the players/fans..just obnoxious!!!
By McFann
May 23, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this
Francoeur……
Why must he bat fifth? Why must he bat fifth?
By Efrim
May 23, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this
Damn, Tex hits into a DP and Frenchy strikes out. I really thought that was the inning to get back into it. Doug Davis is sneaky good.
By Wayne in Utah
May 23, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
How ‘bout these two guys for possible mid season acquisitions: Paul Byrd and X-man Nady.
I like what someone stated about Nady being a possible 1B replacement next year if Tex does not return.
By jbutler
May 23, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this
Dutchie No harm done at all..besides - truly - its not like I can really get angry w/a Scandanavian!! :)
By Wayne in Utah
May 23, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
McCann is turning into a speed merchant! :-)
HoHo is not being hit hard, excepting for the tater in the first. Maybe that blister is causing him to be a bit off (3 walks).
Let’s trade Chipper….can you believe such lousy d???
:-)
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
Nothing like a five-run first inning to suck the life out of a winning streak. Big Friday night crowd not getting to see the kind of baseball that was played here the last four games.
By Robin
May 23, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
Time to sit JoJo! He’s had time to recover from the first inn. Now he has the D on their heels. You’re in the bigs now JoJo, pitch like it!!
By Wayne in Utah
May 23, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
question Is it interference if a batter drops the bat in the way of the catcher?
By Scott from Fairburn
May 23, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
Ho Ho Reyes!
By eric the elder
May 23, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
Dutchie, no need to apologize. We Americans are a little uptight these days and with good reason. You would be too if you had to endure 8 years of … Oh sorry, no politics on this blog.
By snowball's chance
May 23, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this
KJ is batting .304. He is still learning to play 2nd base. Give him a friggin break. Bet you all wish we still had Marcus Giles.
By Dutchie
May 23, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
whaahahahahahah Classic one jbutler!
Live sucks, but love to live it! :)
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
jbutler, they send guys to Mississippi because it’s much easier to get over there and back, and because the facilities are so much better.
When Braves move to Gwinnett, they’re going to save a whole lot of time and have hassle-free rehab trips. Going to be a big potential advantage for them, especially in a season that’s had as many injuries and rehab assignments as this one.
If the Braves have a day game at Turner Field, for instance, there will be times when the manager and GM can go up and watch a prospect or rehabbing player at Triple-A in Gwinnett in a night game, or vice-versa if Gwinnnett has a day game and Atlanta has a night game.
By TennesseePaul
May 23, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
So last season Jo-Jo just stunk. This year he gets to blame the blister…
By Efrim
May 23, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
MInor League Pitcher update:
Tommy Hanson is also having a rough go of things at Double A tonight.
Jeff Locke is pitching well for Low A Rome.
Deunte Heath is struggling.
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
MAV: Reyes is “complete garbage,” huh? That’s news to me. I thought he’d made a lot of progress, going 4-1 with a 3.60 ERA in eight starts since Sept. 1 before tonight.
Those of you who believe Charlie Morton will step right in and produce better numbers than those … well, I feel bad for Morton when he is brought up. Because like about 95 percent of young pitchers, he’s almost certainly going to struggle early on.
By geauxbraves2000
May 23, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this
Good stinking grief, does this team lead the world in hitting into DPs?
By Dan
May 23, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
By McFann
May 23, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this
Francoeur……
Why must he bat fifth? Why must he bat fifth?
AMEN. But BC LOVES that lefty / righty match ups. Regardless if players are in slumps and killing rallies and all.
And WTF is DIAZ doing in the 7 hole instead of 8th. He looks REALLY BAD. at the plate and field. WOW awful swings.
By McFann
May 23, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
Jbutler—
I’m with you on your 8:33 ALL THE WAY!
Speed merchant for sure, Wayne!
And yeah, sounds like interference to me.
By Scott from Fairburn
May 23, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
Let’s let HO HO finish this off this laugher and give the bullpen the night off.
By Wayne in Utah
May 23, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
Looks like we will get to see Resop tonight…
By Dutchie
May 23, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this
eric, similar up here :) and they can even go longer then 8 years! haha. What can you do about it except keep voting? :)
pfff….not just Jo-Jo being lit up, but all of a sudden the DP is back for a sequel. Looks like we’re in need of a little miracle tonight. Make that 8 little miracles for the one run win….
Go Braves!
By StingerSplash
May 23, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this
JoJo “Puttin’ it on a tee” Reyes. The D-Backs have scored more runs in four-plus innings off Reyes than they did in 27 innings against the Marlins. Outstanding.
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
A loss tonight would drop Atlanta to 3-11 vs. the D-backians since the beginning of the 2006 season.
By ncscoots
May 23, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
Wayne, try to keep up, man, LOL. If bloggers throw HUDSON under a bus for a bad outing, how ya think they are gonna treat a poor dumb rookie who actually pitches like a rookie one game? :-) JoJo just GOTTA get a beat-down from these folks.
Dude, pitchers with fewer than 20 big-league starts are supposed to be able to locate and dominate through blisters, tough lineups, and (I guess) Armageddon itself. Reyes can’t seem to do that, thus gets the blog heave-ho.
And we all know the quality level of the talent evaluation here, so they must be right. Pay attention!
By Robin
May 23, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this
Attaway to suck the life outta your teammates Reyes, just when we’re going good. Fer cryin’ out loud! Just put it on a plate for ‘em. Now Davis is settling in.
By Pete H.
May 23, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
Well, Salty’s having a big night. I guess we were due for a game like this. Just reload and get Randy tomorrow. We got the Mexican League Kid going tomorrow, and he has been shockingly good all year.
Thanks for those who posted that Campillo was actually a Brave originally. Why we dumped him in Mexico I have no idea, but no one else thought much of him either.
I’m rooting for him hard. He’s a true feel-good story.
By geauxbraves2000
May 23, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
I may be wrong, for my research skills aren’t the greatest, but from what I’ve found, the Braves, including the 2 GIDP tonight, are tied with the Dodgers w/46 GIDP, which is 3rd highest in the majors. It’s hard to rally when the DP keeps showing it’s ugly head.
Can’t win every game, I know, but loses still aren’t easy to take. The Braves had a winning streak going, the D-Backs had a losing streak going, Reyes on the mound for the Braves, and a LHP on the mound for the D-Backs. The story was pretty much told before the first pitch.
That’s okay though, the game’s not over yet. If the Braves don’t come back, they can chalk this one up to one of the at least 54 games they were going to lose anyway.
Geaux Braves!!
By Wayne in Utah
May 23, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this
Oh man, you are right scoots. My apologies for being such a dum azz!
:-)
This is the problem with a blog. Instant gratification is required, to avoid total and complete anarchy by some.
Anybody seen the Indiana Jones flick? Going with my kiddo late tonight. Also, I hear “Iron Man” is worth the look…
Resop just put one into Reynolds back. Sometimes a dusting off is a good thing, to keep the other team from digging in. Not that it should be done on purpose.
Do you think Bob Gibson would hesitate to dust somebody off???
By Wayne in Utah
May 23, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
Let em get as many as they can tonight, and then Campillo can shut the door tomorrow.
(my earlier statement about getting to see Resop and not letting him go too quickly, is coming back to bite me in the azz!)
By Scott from Fairburn
May 23, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
HO HO and ReSOB … a losing combination
By Overlord
May 23, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
Suddenly I feel like a muts fan, LOL, well, not maybe not that bad.
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
D-backs have scored as many runs tonight as they scored in their past six road games combined. They lost all those six games.
By McFann
May 23, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
A loss tonight would drop Atlanta to 3-11 vs. the D-backians since the beginning of the 2006 season. DOB
And since their first meeting in the 2006 season, I have absolutely DESPISED this team!!
By AMG
May 23, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
Oh well…not going to win them all at home. Time to rest some guys and plan for tomorrow.
By StingerSplash
May 23, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
Great. The D-backs’ bats are waking up just as they’re about to run Randy Johnson, Micah Owings and Brandon Webb at the Braves. Suddenly, this weekend ain’t shapin up so good.
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this
Wayne, Iron Man is outstanding. Loved it. Robert Downey Jr. is perfect in the role. It’s not like other superhero flicks (most of which I don’t much care for).
By TennesseePaul
May 23, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
So am I seeing all the bench in the game now because of the blow out or did something happen to a few starters, mainly Chipper?
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
Two worst starts of Reyes’ career have both come against Arizona (his only starts against them).
He’s given up 15 runs (14 earned) and SIX homers in nine innings of those two games.
Hasn’t given up more than five runs against anyone else, and has allowed seven earned runs twice against Arizona.
By bravesfan
May 23, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
Here are Soriano stats from tonight: Soriano 1 IP, 0 H, 0 ER, 1 SO
DOB, when is the earliest we will see Soriano back?
By Random
May 23, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
“I don’t think the trade fo MAddux would cost us any name we know”
“resop and pena should get maddux and all but a million of his salary”
“We won’t need to trade the farm in order to obtain Maddux, but if you think we will get Maddux in exchange for players like Thorman or Pena, you are kidding yourself.”
“Trade Corky Miller for Maddux.”
“what about Brayan Pena for Maddux instead? If that’s not enough, they could try including Resop.”
“In the Maddux Trade..i don’t give more than one player for him”
“As far as everyone talking about Maddux, I am thinking of a Pena, Diory Hernandez and a pitcher”
The very most I would counsel the Braves to give up for Maddux in a deadline trade would be cash and a player to be named later, PROVIDED that the PTBNL is Maddux himself.
Make it a genuine rent-a-player situation.
(Except, I guess he’s in the final year of his contract, huh?)
Okay — cash considerations only.
By Scott from Fairburn
May 23, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
Hey Matty, don’t be afraid to go to the wall … that ball barely cleared the left field fence
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
You want good some good news, here’s some:
Soriano had one strikeout in a hitless inning at Double-A SouthernMiss, threw 9 strikes in 14 pitches and was clocked at 93 mph on at least one pitch.
Mike Gonzalez had a strikeout in one inning in extended spring game, will do back-to-back thing by pitching tomorrow.
By Train Wreck Bystander
May 23, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
What a fugly game.
The only way it would be worse is if it was actually televised on a channel most people outside of the Atlanta DMA could actually watch. ;-)
By Murphy
May 23, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
Geez Corky.
By Random
May 23, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
McFann, sometimes the only thing I can do is just look at you, sigh and simply shake my head.
I’m betting you get a lot of that from your parents, huh, Podkayne?
By H-Ram
May 23, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
Lets GO Campillo!!! Mow em down tomorrow!! i hope Diaz doesnt start tomorrow…he was suppose to hit lefties,right..he doesnt hit ANYONE…put Blanco in there…at least he wont go hacking at every friggin pitch and take a walk or work the count..
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
Florida lost tonight to the Gigantes, and Philly is down 3-1 in eighth at Houston.
So Braves will still be 1-1/2 games behind Marlins, as will Phillies unless they come back and win that game at Houston.
By BossLady
May 23, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
All in all the Braves performances have been great. No team, hear me, no team will win every game on every night.
We are hurting for pitching and when these guys go out there they are trying to win. Stuff is not always guaranteed to show up.
Let’s suck it up and cheer them on
By Wayne in Utah
May 23, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
Good night to let the other team get all their hits in one game. Lets go get em this weekend.
Nite all. I have a 2 hour line to sit in to get seats to see Indiana Jones! What we do to spend quality time with our teenangels!
Dave, thanks for the movie review on Iron Man! Maybe catch it on a matinee on Monday.
By BossLady
May 23, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
Oh yeah, why is Francoeur and Tex in the line up back to back?
That makes no sense, however, there will not be a single gunshot here.
I love Bobby and Chipper, without them there is no Braves…..
By LuisGuillermo
May 23, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
Good thing is the Marlins lost and both the Phillies and the Mets are losing their games. Washington already won tonight.
By Bravesfan79
May 23, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
I warned about us loosing Pena and now its come true. Without Pena here whats gonna now keep Escobar from taking the highest offer as a Free Agent as soon as he hits that status??
From reading the article is sounded like Escobar sounds down….and we all know emotions can play a big part in a player slumping.
So Pena is around a .250 hitter? Hes still a better bat off then bench than Corky Miller.
Imagine your in a foreign country, and the MAIN/ONLY guy that you can talk to on your team is traded. Not to mention its a friend youve known since childhood!
We just sacrificed our relationship with our young all star quality shortstop….. OVER CORKY FREAKIN MILLER!
BAD MOVE BRAVES!!
By CC Rider
May 23, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
We will see Saturday if Campillo can be a number 5 starter, but Jo JO is showing the same tendencies as last year. He often has poor control and unlike Glavine or Hudson, he either doesn’t know his own mechanics well enough to make the corrections quickly or he lets the problem work on him mentally. MAYBE BOTH! The point is, unlike Smoltz and pitchers with better Stuff he needs placement of his pitches to be better or he will have a game like tonight. You can’t throw a 91 MPH fastball down the middle or hang a breaking pitch waist high and not give up the game. The point is: Jo Jo is still not ready to pitch for a contending team. We see Jair and his composure/control at 22 years old and Jo Jo at 24 and his lack thereof and its plain as night and day. I understand the Braves don’t want to rush Morton, so with Soriano, Smoltz and Gonzalez coming back move Bennett back into the rotation, trade or release Resop. Smoltz, Gonzalez, Soriano, Acosta, Ohman, Boyer and Stockman ( both Boyer and Stockman can pitch multiple innings). I don’t want to lose Ring and it would be great if the Braves could peddle Ring and Resop for a comparable lefty with options left. We just need a starter that will keep us in the game and let the offense do their work. If, Bennett, Campillo or (SHUDDER) Hampton not fill the void then make a trade or try Morton, but Jo Jo is not ready for prime time YET.
By TennesseePaul
May 23, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
You know what I miss? It’s hasn’t been around here in a while… Where are all those calls to get LaRoche back? Or the over-paid-to-get-Teixeira-because-first-base-was-a-self-made-hole crows. Sure do miss those…
By Bravesfan79
May 23, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
Didnt see much of todays game, but i sure hope after we were down so many runs….. Bobby used it as a chance to rest Mccan and Chipper.
By northbeach Scott
May 23, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
Went to get a haircut around 1:15pm this afternoon at Phipps Plaza and as I was waiting to go back noticed these two fellows talking and heading out. Turned out it was the D-Backs Cy Young Winner Brandon Webb and I think P Micah Ownings. The stylist next to mine cut his hair and said he was very nice and that he was a D-Backs pitcher. Nice to see ballplayers as real people. No big deal, just a slice of life.
I suppose with all the free time the players have on the road, getting errands like this save time when they are home.
By TennesseePaul
May 23, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this
Without Pena here whats gonna now keep Escobar from taking the highest offer as a Free Agent as soon as he hits that status
Wow. Pena was alright from what I saw, but not good enough to justify keeping him for 6 more seasons at least for an ever so slight edge in resigning Yunel 5 years from now… oh, and the Braves would have to give Pena raises each year through arbitration to keep him here.
By jbutler
May 23, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this
All is not lost..there are a few positives from tonights momentum-sucking blowout…
Wayne My friend saw the Indy flick yesterday- said it was okay..but Indy is showing his age- looking more like the relics that he hunts out. And the theatre only had about 20 people in it- during prime time!! Enjoy..
DOBThanks for explaining rehab process…makes perfect sense.
By TNRON
May 23, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
For Braves fans in the East Tennessee area,the Smoltz rehab game is against the Tennessee Smokies in Kodak,Tn (10 miles east of Knoxville just off I-40 exit 407).I saw Soriano and Tommy Hanson tonight.Hanson is impressive physically,big RH,throws hard.Had some location problems and gave up 5 runs.Soriano seemed to throw free and easy,no sign of discomfort.Looking forward to seeing John tomorrow night.
By LuisGuillermo
May 23, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
northbeach Scott: nice experience. I think Micah is a Georgia native.
By Andy
May 23, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this
Who were we kidding we when thought that we could count on Chuck James and Mike Hampton for pitching depth??? As great as we played the past 4 games, tonight almost makes you forget ‘em.
Here we are with an inconsistent jo jo reyes who is not ready. Campillo may wash up. The jury is out on him, although he’s been nothing short of fantastic so far. I really still dont know why in the heck we didn’t try for livan hernandez, or even kyle lohse. I wonder if Jeff Weaver would be of any help? I am sure he’d be better than reyes at this point. Greg Maddux would be great. Aaron Harang would be ideal. We can’t go like last year again and have such huge question marks with two or even one spot in the rotation. What do you guys think?
By chase
May 23, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
Now where is everyone who was Criticizing me yesterday for saying that with the UNCERTANITY around JOJO and CAMPILLIO it would be great to get MADDUX???????
Many of you assured me that we had all we needed and didn’t need a MADDUX in the rotation….
I like JOJO and I like CAMPILLIO but I would feel better counting on a proven guy like MADDUX and let the other two guys each work in the 5 spot or spot start to get more work without the pressure of COUNTING on them to win…..
By chase
May 23, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
Andy, CCRider and others
its funny how one day changes things…last night I was attacked for saying we still needed MADDUX or another starter….
And this is why!!!!!
By Bravesfan79
May 23, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this
Tennessee Paul: Look for Escobar to now make more errors in the field (at least in the next few weeks) due to not being as focused.
I mean thats natural when you feel kinda betrayed like obviously Escobar does.
I sure hope not, but dont be surprised when Escobar goes into a mini slump coming up soon. Hes a great player yes….but usually unhappy great players make for average results.
By Andy
May 23, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
Chase:
That’s hard to believe. It certainly wasn’t me, because I posted on the last blog that we needed another guy, preferably harang, but a maddux acquisition would be great.
By BossLady
May 23, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
Damn, I’m leaving. This is so, so ridiculous. Everytime we do not fair so well, everyone wants to trade the damn team. Bring in people from “parts unknown” and redo the lineup.
We have got to work through our misfortunes and continue to improve. Just today, Wren was being congratulated for bringing in the people he did to help the team.
I’ll just get the F*&% out of here and when I return, I hope the team has been changed to suit youse folks.
I am already disappointed with the loss and now all I hear is whining and complaining. We swept the METS in four (4) games. That should get us up by humiliating those clowns.
Listen, the Diamondbacks are No 1 and remember DOB has them picked to win it all this year.
So, we have got to figure them out and hopefully Sunday or Memorial Day we can get them for a split. It would not be a disgrace to lose to the First Place Team……..
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
I guess I get so pi$$y with people for playing gotcha that I can’t complain when no one points out a typo (made my bed, must sleep in it, foreign bed or otherwise).
But I just went back and reread the blog for the first time since I hurriedly posted it. Yikes. Several typos.
Anyway, it’s cleaned up a bit, so if you want to bore yourself and read it again, please do. I also inserted a couple of really dirty words spelled backward, so see if you can decode them.
By Sarah
May 23, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
Just so you know, DOB… THIS fan hates those disgusting red uniforms!!
Like you, I’m not quite sure why most people like them.
By chase
May 23, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
ANDY
I know it wasn’t you BUT…go back and look at yesterday’s blog and you’ll see me getting grilled about it…
I totally agree about HARANG…I have been calling for that move ALL YEAR…but if you can’t get that deal then get MADDUX
Maybe now that the BRAVES only have 10 days to do something with PENA they will get a trade going….
Can’t see them letting him go for nothing!
By BossLady
May 23, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
I’ve got an idea. Why don’t we trade Escobar and Kotsay to the Red Sox for Josh Beckett.
Better yet, why don’t we trade McCann and Chipper to Diamondbacks for Brian Webb.
Ah, no that’s not right, we should trade, Chipper, McCann and Escobar for Dan Haren.
Why not go for the whole ShebannG!!
We could get Torre or Pinella for Mr. Bobby Cox.
Dusty Baker and Ken Griffey Jr. for McDowell and a player to be named.
See, the good pitchers are locked in contracts. If there were really good pitchers available you can believe that JS would have or FW will get them.
By Efrim
May 23, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
I like Reyes. Good stuff. This team will probably need a starter though, and I am sure they are aware of that. 4-4 in the 7th. Lets go Rockies……
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
I warned about us loosing Pena and now its come true. Without Pena here whats gonna now keep Escobar from taking the highest offer as a Free Agent as soon as he hits that status??Bravesfan79
If you’re really going to stress about that, then you’ve got until 2013 to relax. That’s when he’d be eligible for free agency.
Tennessee Paul: Look for Escobar to now make more errors in the field (at least in the next few weeks) due to not being as focused. I mean thats natural when you feel kinda betrayed like obviously Escobar does. Bravesfan79
Betrayed? You really don’t know Escobar if you believe he’s going to start making errors because he feels betrayed.
Should they have kept Pena on the 25-man roster regardless of performance, for as long as Escobar wanted to keep him?
Hey, I feel bad for both Pena, a genuine prince of a guy, one of the classiest you’ll ever meet, and for Escobar, whose good friend is gone. But folks, it’s a tough business. Much tougher decisions than that will be made by teams all season long.
By David O'Brien
May 23, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this
Thank you, Sarah. You’re a woman of good taste, obviously.
By StingerSplash
May 23, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Unless you included “Hampton is dead” backwards up above ….
By scottbravesfan
May 23, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
The Red uniforms rule.
By Dude in row three
May 23, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
I’m so relieved to read that Mark Richt, the great military master mind has taken a five day tour of bases in the middle east and determined the war is necessary.After years of the best military and political minds studying and debating, the great one has spoken.Being a humble military genius wasn’t enough however.He also found a clever way to recruit by writing UGA football slogans on a 2000 lb bomb.It seems the great one fully appreciates the gravity of the situation.
By chase
May 23, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
BossLady
I am not sure who your sarcasm is directed at BUT…you need to have a reality check…
Nobody is mentioning the players or trades that you are opining about
A deal for Maddux would not be that hard (he’s willing to come back, the Padres are 15 games under .500)
A deal for HARANG is not impossible…the REDS are in last place and going nowhere, HARANG has the kind of contract the Braves like to get (this year and another for not bad money)
and he has a bad record but a good ERA and the REDS are already the subject of other trade rumblings and have a new GM
If people were actually talking foolish enough to mention the names/trades that you are then you can criticize them…otherwise it sounds ridiculous
By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)
May 23, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
Hey, It’s just one game, RIGHT?
What is lost in translation is, another left hander shut the Braves offense down.
C-O-M-P-L-E-T-E-L-Y.
9-11 against the southpaws. 17-11 facing right handers.
But thats just scratching the surface of the problem. In those eleven losses against lefty’s, the Braves have scored just 21 runs and have been shut out 4 times. Thats an average of 1.9 runs per game.
In fact, when looking at all twenty of the games played against left handed pitching, the Braves have scored 70 runs. That’s an average of 3.5 per game, compared to 5.8 per game in 28 contests played against right handed pitching (162 runs).
Folks, this is one hell of a problem and I really don’t think that Bobby Cox has a damn clue.
By Terry
May 24, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this
i know its been only one ugly,slugfest start so far for Reyes..but face it..he doesnt have it to be a No.4 on this team or on a contender…Reyes has written Kyle Davies all over him..exactly the same..except Kyle was a righty..i mean,Reyes has good stuff,but this guy takes 2 Steps forward then 5 steps back..look at Jurrjens at 22..Reyes is 24 and a lefty..Jurrjens has control,confidence and didnt even get to pitch at AAA…Reyes well hes no more than what he looked in star versus Oakland…what a shame Reyes..get yourself together and dont blame the friggin Blister..
By CC Rider
May 24, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
Chase, I didn’t comment about the starting pitching yesterday, just today. I did see the derisive comments to your suggestions of trading for Maddox. I think the panic in your post is what sent people to attact your post. We and many of the bloggers agree that Jo Jo is too erratic to keep in the rotation. He was pitching well under the watchful eye of Guy Hansen at AAA, but everytime he comes to the big club he slowly gets back in bad habits. The question thus becomes how to replace him. DOB and others who have been posting here since the blog started will tell you the Braves will exhaust all internal options before forcing a trade. Bennett, Morton, waiting and hoping on Hampton, giving Chuck James another start, Rouenhorst at AAA, Bueno at AAA will be tried or considered before jumping at a trade that would require players that might be needed later to make trades for injured players replacements. So, don’t get bent out of shape because others don’t agree on a rush to trade for Maddox or someone else. The Braves braintrust never rush to make changes until there out of options in their farm system or start to fall to far behind. It just the way they do IT!
By Daybed Wagmoe
May 24, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this
Billy Wagner gives up a game-tying solo home run to Matt Holliday in the bottom of the ninth. Ooh, DAT’S GOTTA HOIT!
My fantasy pitching will take a bit of a hit thanks to Wagner…but my fantasy hitting will get a boost thanks to Holliday!
By N8
May 24, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this
Guys, at first I had about 10 seconds of concern over Escobar’s performance now that Pena is gone. But guess what?
Pena has hardly been on the 25 man roster this year, and Yunel has done just fine, hasn’t he?
The guy escaped from Cuba for crying out loud. Though he doesn’t have “Barry Zito” money, he surely makes enough money to pay for a frickin’ cell phone and keep in touch with Brayan on a daily basis, if he so chooses, right?
If losing his best friend within the organization is the worst thing that’s gonna happen to him in this lifetime, things will work out JUST FINE for young Yunel.
My best friend moved to California when we were in the 8th grade. I’m still suckin’ air.
Now….about Jo-Jo? (sigh)
By chrisklob
May 24, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this
CC, I agree with much of what you just said. The unfortunate truth is that many of the bloggers here demand instant gratification. The mlb season is a long one. It is often described as a “marathon, not a sprint”. This does not jibe well with the NFL mindset that many people have. In football, one game lost has tremendous implications on the end-of-year standings. In baseball, the loss of one game is not nearly as significant.
I believe that Billy Beane, GM of the Oakland club has said something to this effect: “The first two months of the season you figure out what you need. The second two months of the season you fill those needs. The last two months of the season you try to win the division.”
That is not a direct quote, but a paraphrase. The message therein tells us that it is still early. It’s not time to panic. I am very comfortable with the current composition of this club. Recent adjustments of the lineup have worked. The starting pitching has been mostly solid. The bullpen has been excellent. The bench is much improved. In the coming days/weeks Gonzalez and Soriano will be back. So will Smoltz. That will further solidify the pen.
I am very impressed with what Wren has done to bolster this roster without weakening the farm system and I have every confidence that the moves that need to be made to solidify this team to compete in October will be made.
Patience people, patience.
By Greg in TN
May 24, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this
Morning gang…
Mississip had the same kind of night that the big club had as the Lads of Pearl dropped tonight’s game 8-3 at the foothills of the Smokies.
TNRON mentioned this before, however Tommy Hanson got the start and went 5, giving up 3 earned runs and 6 hits. The M-Braves did not help matters in the field making two errors that led to a total of 5 unearned Smokies runs. Hanson did have location issues, walked 2 and struck out 2, but left a few balls out over the plate that were smacked around pretty well.
Soriano pitched a 1-2-3 sixth inning, had a very effective fastball and a good changeup. I felt like the radar gun at the ballpark was off by a couple 3-4 MPH, so DOB’s confirmation that Soriano reached 93 tells me that Hanson’s fastball was in the low 90’s fairly consistently throughout his five innings of work.
Offensively, Kala Ka’aihue hit two homers, a solo shot in the fourth that reached the base of the picnic area in left field and a two-run blast in the 8th to right-center. JC Holt had a lead-off walk and a steal and a single in the 5th, Van Pope had a single in the 6th and Quentin Davis was 2-4 with a pair of doubles which constituted the bulk of the Braves offense.
Sung Ki Jung came in and pitched an inning and a third out of the pen, and is a sidewinder much in the same way as Peter Moylan. The South Korean came in with the bases loaded in the seventh and surrendered a two-run single and a walk before striking out the lead-off hitter to end the inning, then pitched a 1-2-3 8th inning. I really like this guy’s delivery motion even though his stats in Mississip’ (1-2 with a 8.15 ERA) don’t look particularly well right now.
Folks that are planning on making the trek out to see Smoltz might want to take note that if you’re traveling eastbound through Knoxville to reach the ballpark, I-40 is closed downtown (you’ll be rerouted to I-640), so allow extra time to navigate through the city.
By A-ville Ranger
May 24, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this
It’s only one game,it’s only one game,it’s only one game.If not for the two plus season pattern of falling back around .500 after a run like the team has been on none of us would see this game as anything but a bad night at the Ted.I’m not a fatalist by nature ( a pessimist at times perhaps) so I’m optimistic the team will remain on their upward trajectory and this route will be a footnote not a benchmark.
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
May 24, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this
northbeach
Wasn’t that you last week calling me a liar b/c I posted about some ballplayers that were friends and teammates of mine??
Not that I care — it’s just funny to me that the same guy who would say that is now saying that he supposedly ran into a couple of players today.
I’m not gonna call you a liar b/c it could be true, Im just pointing out you’re hypocrisy if you ever say I made something up again.
By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)
May 24, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this
During the 2006 and 2007 seasons, the Braves posted their two lowest stolen base totals in any season (52 and 64) as a team since 1975.
It’s also coincidently, the first two season they have garnered losing records against left handed pitching since 1989.
Is it some strange alignment of the stars or is there something missing?
Inquiring minds want to know.
By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)
May 24, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this
Chrislob, Bobby Cox last won a World Series in 1995. He last took the Braves to the Series in 1999. Cox won his last playoff series in 2001. The man last went to the playoffs in 2005.
And you’re asking me to be patient?
RIIIIIIGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHT !
By A-ville Ranger
May 24, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this
DOB an edit ability would be a big plus for chronic misspellers like myself.The word on my last post should read rout not route.
By Stephen
May 24, 2008 1:25 AM | Link to this
Lighten up on Reyes, people.
Flashback: Tom Glavine, 22-years-old 1988: 34 starts, 7-17, 195.3 IP, 1 CG, 111 R, 99 ER, 63 BB, 84 SO, 4.56 ERA
Tom Glavine, 25-years-old 1991: 34 starts, 20-11, 246.7 IP, 9 CG, 83 R, 70 ER, 69 BB, 192 SO, 2.55 ERA
Reyes is only 22-years-old right now. It’s ridiculous for anyone to expect him to be dominant EVERY time he takes the mound. He’s already got part of the equation of being a big league pitcher solved: he’s got the makeup and the talent to be a professional pitcher. Right now, he’s going to take some licks, but it’s only going to make him better. Patience is a virtue. And with young pitchers, you have to be patient, patient, patient.
Bobby’s given Reyes his vote of confidence and I don’t think he’s going anywhere this year unless he totally loses it. He’s got nothing left to prove at AAA and it’s going to do him no good to shuttle back and forth from Atlanta to Richmond all year. Keep him in the fourth/fifth spot, let him learn, roll with the punches, and stay patient with this kid.
By uga-brave
May 24, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this
observations and predictions, i just got home from five paces so they might be a little DRUNK.
was at the game, diaz will be DFA’D after the all-star break…
jo-jo will be a good pitcher….
kelly is hot and will stay hot in the bottom of the lineup…..
infante will sneak his way into the lineup, alot. bobby loves dirt players……
ringo (francoeur) i am trying real hard, ringo. 0-8 since his so called breakout game. ringo i am trying real hard.
every team has at least 7 games like this one.
By Bravo Nam
May 24, 2008 1:45 AM | Link to this
Great news about Bobby renewing his contract…Robert will also be delighted.
ALAGT
Agree with your 5.42pm post…I wondered the same thing…how much Pena’s departure will impact on Escobar. He’ll come to play, but emotionally one wonders if his heart is going to be in it like before…over time that’s gotta impact on your overall attitude and performance.
By uga-brave
May 24, 2008 1:47 AM | Link to this
coach,
i do not ever talk, or call out bloggers.
but, you are and idiot.
so please tell me why, dont give me the roll the hole stuff.
i know you just got done WATCHING the tom emansky, FRED MCGRIFF, play like a pro video. that is where you get your clever stuff.
to say bobby is not a great manager, i say pure stupdity.
ask kotsay how much he likes playing in this clubhouse?
ask glavine why he came back?
ask smoltz why he stayed here for less money?
6 will be the first thing they said.i dont get it. the guy is probably the best manager in modern times, and all of you want to crap on him.
By KDb
May 24, 2008 1:53 AM | Link to this
im with uga-brave..i was at the game the other day..DIAZ looks HORRIBLE!!! has NO clue of what hes doing when hes batting…what happened to the guy..he used to hit lefties pretty good…i guess he sucks against everyone now…trade him while you can Wren!!!
By uga-brave
May 24, 2008 2:13 AM | Link to this
KDb,
you aint gonna get much for him.
we got kerry lightenburg, for a bag of balls and some ashe bats.
time to reverse that trade.
GLUM, as DOB calls him is done here.
no power, no speed, strikes out a ton, is a terrible outfielder.
heck, we have no money invested in him. for the love of casey stengel, DFA HIM.
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
May 24, 2008 2:15 AM | Link to this
uga-brave
Coach is kinda of like that guy that you know from your company that can’t sing a lick, just destroys the enjoyment from any song on the radio when he starts trying to sing along. So therefore when anybody else sings anywhere near him - even if they are really good - he will be the first to say “keep your day job” or some other snide remark to demean them b/c it is really an insecurity issue on his part.
There is no reason in the world to bash on Cox’s career. Every manager makes mistakes, it’s just part of being human and part of the game. People like Coach are just nay-saying nellies who derive some kind of pleasure out of being “known” as a criticizer of somebody who is actually accomplished.
Or he could just be a humongous douchebag !!!!!!
By uga-brave
May 24, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this
going to the ritz at lake occonne, for a couple of nights.
gotta love three day weekends.
to give all the denizens, perspective.
i am on the phone with N.Y. all day.
to a man, they hate larry but they respect him.
they hate minaya, cant stand all the?
fred willpon is gonna fire minaya, before randolph.
By uga-brave
May 24, 2008 2:41 AM | Link to this
cavey,
i have already made my plans to go to TEMPE.
we are going out west to see the dawgs.
not often that you get to see the dawgs go west.
for the love of god, we gotta go to columbia and beat the cocks first.
i hate that place. flat and boring.
i hope we shove it up spurriers’ a*.
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
May 24, 2008 2:57 AM | Link to this
Yeah — My buddy bought a season tix package from AZ State just to get 2 seats at the game.
Also good to see the tennis team pick up a 2nd consecutive title — especially since it wasn’t in Athens this year. Funny how it was ok for us to carry college tennis on out backs for the tournament until we started winning the damn thing.
By BravesRule
May 24, 2008 3:29 AM | Link to this
MLBTradeRumors says Harden would take one good prospect…THB
Bah they were claiming a C prospect last week.Billy would be crazy to trade him this early so cheaply when he will bring a lot more that than in July, a LOT more. and if he does trade him early/cheap it will probably be because he is starting to worry about his health again. I don’t read them all the time cause every time I do they are wrong. Just rumor mongers.
By Davey O'Bravien
May 24, 2008 3:34 AM | Link to this
Go DOGS….I mean braves. Forgot where I was for a minute. Whew! What a beat down. Bravos will rally over the weekend and take the next 3. (I hope). At least they’re just 1& 1/2 back of 1st. Right? Am I right about that? I am. Yes, I am. !ynnuf era ouy ,hsalpS regnitS
By Language police
May 24, 2008 4:18 AM | Link to this
Excuse you, Caveman/Original Dawg. We do not allow Mckluskey like language on this blog. Davey O’Bravien, please speak english! David O’Brien, please do not encourage the trolls to use foul language! (Forwards or backwards, Foul = Foul) Thank you. You may carry on.
By Kevin
May 24, 2008 4:43 AM | Link to this
Oh yea we let cox back a year n for his great return arizona whips us like a mule 11-1. Come on now marlins are a better team then Us..and yet u not metion them.If fla could sweep arizona out of state of fla. We should had won friday..more excuse’s again
By gotigers72
May 24, 2008 5:06 AM | Link to this
If Jo Jo could get it out of his mind that not every hitter is Babe Ruth or Hank Aaron [although the Snakes hit him like they were the 27 Yankees tonight], he would be a much better pitcher. That’s why he does so well at AAA IMO. But in The Show, he nibbles around and walks too many, or gets behind and has to come in with a big fat cookie to the hitter. He did both tonight. He needs to 1] Throw MORE strikes and LESS pitches, 2] Keep MORE pitches out of the middle of the plate 3] Pitch MORE from in front and LESS from behind. Of course, anyone that knows anything about baseball/pitching would tell you that those are rules for EVERY pitcher. The difference with Jo JO is that he does those things at AAA, but doesn’t do them at the major league level. I don’t know why. I’m just surmising that it is the Babe Ruth/Hank Aaron mind screw that happens with a lot of young pitchers when they first come up and see a Chipper Jones or Albert Pujols come to the plate. Nothing wrong with Jo Jo’s stuff, it’s all in his head. Kind of the Kyle Davies syndrome. Hope he can get rid of that syndrome soon.
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
May 24, 2008 5:28 AM | Link to this
Dear Language Police
I would like to see your badge you little bleepity bleep
And you can take your bleep and stick up your bleep !!
Language Police my BBLLEEEEEEEEPPPPP!!!!!!
LOLOL
By SFreud
May 24, 2008 5:59 AM | Link to this
My best friend moved to California when we were in the 8th grade. I’m still suckin’ airN8
Aha, now we know where all the anger and cynicism and the desperate need for attention come from.
By Quack Quack
May 24, 2008 6:14 AM | Link to this
It’s also coincidently, the first two season they have garnered losing records against left handed pitching since 1989.
Is it some strange alignment of the stars or is there something missing?
Inquiring minds want to know.oach**
are you back with that crap again? Yeah and the other night Reyes stole three bases and didn’t get a run out of them let out affect the outcome of the game. Go back and pplay with your fantasy stats that you were posting earlier. I’d be even more blunt but I’m afraid Defender of Coach will jump all over me. How much do you pay that guy anyway?
By Cherokee
May 24, 2008 6:19 AM | Link to this
was at the game, diaz will be DFA’D after the all-star breakUGA
Yep, you’re drunk my friend. That ain’t ever gonna happen.
By R1U
May 24, 2008 6:31 AM | Link to this
I thought baseball was a professional sport. Why all the suspicion about Yunel tanking? He plays hard because he loves the game. Sure it stinks that a friend has been passed over. What’s that have to do with Ws and playing the game you love! Man, you guys sound like New Yorkers!!!
By Bill
May 24, 2008 6:56 AM | Link to this
The Braves don’t need another broken down, older pitcher. Trade Chuck James and Brandon Jones for Harden. It would be worth taking a chance if, if he can stay healthy.
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
May 24, 2008 7:18 AM | Link to this
Quack Quack
Dude - Def. of Coach IS the Coach. Until I see them actually blog on here at the same time or exchange a conversation it will always be obvious that Coach is making up his own invisible friends.
Or he is telling one of his neighbors at the retirement home to post something.
Either way — don’t hold back. Go ahead and Bust’em up !!!!
It’s a talent that he picked up from his Little League squad.
By ncscoots
May 24, 2008 7:37 AM | Link to this
Lots of venom for Reyes here last night, along with the voicing of perceptions formed about the kid from last year’s early performance. As usual, most of those in error.
“he’s inconsistent” - Blaming a rook for being inconsistent is like blaming a dog for being a dog. It’s the natural order of things. Most rookie pitchers are going to suffer by comparison to Jurrjens, who is a rare exception among rookie pitchers. But Reyes, so far, has been no more inconsistent than 95% of most other back-end starters in MLB. He’s had more good games than bad, and that’s all you can expect. If you’re sane.
“he nibbles, then grooves” - Uh, 7 walks in his 20 innings prior to last night, to go with 17 K. Not pinpoint, but hardly Wild Thing, either. Resulting in one, one, HR.
I don’t know how Reyes will pan out, but he’s hardly the “garbage” that some here think. If the blister doesn’t keep popping up, he’s certainly capable of handling a back-end slot (the folks who think you can pitch through a bad blister on your pitching fingers haven’t ever pitched, I’m guessing).
But if you think Reyes ought to go 15-2, then you might as well archive some of the blasts you wrote tonight, so you can use them again later in the season.
By Efrim
May 24, 2008 7:46 AM | Link to this
NcScoots
Well said at 7:37. Take a look at Phil Hughes and Clay Bucholz. Potential aces that got bombed this year. It happens when you are young. Reyes will be fine as long as this blister clears up….hopefully it will.
By Will
May 24, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this
Is it a coincidence that the day the Braves sign Bobby to a 1 year extenstion they lose 11-1, I think not!!!
By Random
May 24, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this
Quack —
Coach needs no defenders — he can stand on his own.
And I and many others will stand with him, and be proud to do so.
By ncgary
May 24, 2008 8:17 AM | Link to this
i throw out some silly trade scenarios, some i think should be looked into, and some just to get a few chatterers chattering,buti like bills scenario,
By Bill
May 24, 2008 6:56 AM | Link to this
The Braves don’t need another broken down, older pitcher. Trade Chuck James and Brandon Jones for Harden. It would be worth taking a chance if, if he can stay healthy.
By chase
May 24, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this
NcScoots and othe JOJO apoligists
For all of you who are saying “Lighten up on JOJO he’s ONLY 22”
or “JoJo needs more time, he’ll be fine, he’s just a ROOKIE”
Well EXCUSE ME BUT…First of all he is 24…and JAIR JURRJENS is ONLY 22 and has less big league expereince than JoJo
At some point it is obvious that one pitcher “has it” and “gets it” and will be a front line starter for years and the other is going to havve to work to become merely a consistant SERVICABLE starter
I like JoJo BUT he should be further along
By chase
May 24, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this
Stephen
Part of my last post is directed at you…JOJO IS 24 NOT 22 (actually will be 24 in a couple months)
and we see where 22 year old JAIR is in comparison
By Yars
May 24, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this
Reyes isn’t the answer for a #5 starter. We need a solid end of the rotation pitcher. The verdict is still out on Campillo. Who knows how he’ll pan out in the rotation. So far, so good. Could the platoon at 2B be over? KJ has a 10 game hitting streak. He looked great at the plate Thursday, & had a good game last night. His defense has been a lot better as of late too. I hope Bobby goes for broke & starts him against Big Unit today. now playing: true faith by new order.
By MEB
May 24, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this
Will… Your comment at 7:58 is worthy of this blogs common censure… your and idiot!
GO BRAVES!!!
By TommyP
May 24, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this
To those with the MLB Extra Innings package:
Which announcer do you find yourself wanting to listen to for other teams? Which announcer do you immediately turn off when you hear him?
For me, it’s Matt Vasgersian as my favorite and Sutton for the Nationals. I cringe when I hear the latter.
Glad Pena is gone (for his sake). We just didn’t really seem to use him much and he needs a chance.
Love the Maddux trade ideas on here. My brother was talking about reuniting Smoltz, Maddux and Glavine next year but it COULD happen this year.
San Diego is about 2-4 weeks away from starting that firesale as their team is poorly constructed (check that OF production). They already started the changes with their minor league callups this past week.
Don’t trade JoJo. It’s ok to be frustrated with last night but the kid will be pretty good soon.
Wouldn’t mind seeing Morton by mid-June. And Brandon Jones.
By chrisklob
May 24, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this
COOCH, don’t bother responding to my posts again. My comment was not directed at you in any way, shape or form. You have proven time and time again to not only be arrogant and unnecessarily disrespectful. Why don’t you go “roll your own hole”, you douche?
uga, I don’t see Diaz getting DFA’d either. He’s had too much success too recently for that too happen. I wouldn’t rule out a trade, but not a DFA.
Random *Coach needs no defenders — he can stand on his own.
And I and many others will stand with him, and be proud to do so.*
That tells me all I need to know about you. Of course it won’t be you and “many others”. It’ll just be the two of you. Awwww, won’t that be sweet. Good luck with that. But don’t fall for that trick where he asks you to “roll the hole”.
By Random
May 24, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this
Capt. Caveman (“the original dawg”): “Coach is making up his own invisible friends”
Oh, I’d say that ol’ Coach has more friends on here than even he knows, with the full spectrum of incidences of refraction, from trnsparent (invisible) to opaque. Certainly more friends than you, I’d think.
And as far as I’m concerned, you’re no dawg at all — at least no UGA dawg.
Maybe Miss State, or Georgetown (to give you the great benefit of the greater doubt). You’ve probably never even met Dan Magill.
By ncgary
May 24, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this
if norton would step up and get a couple of key pinch hits again or a 3 hit day maybe we could market him and ring for a left fielder and use diaz as norton pinch hitting roll, probably needs a new eye prescription
By richbrave
May 24, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
DAVID O’BRIEN:
Thank you for your post of 11:22 p.m. last night regarding BRAYAN PENA and YUNEL ESCOBAR. Couldn’t agree more. Sanity about the subject. Again, thank you.
By N8
May 24, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
SFreud
“Aha, now we know where all the anger and cynicism and the desperate need for attention come from.”
Nope. Other than my two favorite Sports teams, not much else in my life isn’t grand or great.
Loving wife, that allows me to watch (and pizz and moan) about every other Braves game. 3 Beuatiful and healthy kids, that cause more joy in 5 minutes, than ANY blow-out victory by this inconsistent team could ever do.
Hell. I’m not even that bothered by Cox coming back. Just gives me one more year of nagging and ragging on him, which means one more year of annoying the pizz out of you folk.
Get it through your skulls. I’m not an angry, crabby person in “real life”. Not even close. Sarcastic? Yup. Does this team (and my Chiefs during football season), bring out the BEST of my sarcasm? Yup. On a nightly basis.
But I appreciate the jab, either way.
By McFann
May 24, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this
Random—
What? Oh…uh…yeah…the “tee hee” thing was bad. I’ll go for “LOL” next time.
; >
By McFann
May 24, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this
AAAAA!!! Tied for second most doubles in the Major Leagues!
Gotta work on that tonight! Hasn’t been a double since Wednesday!
Later.
By SFreud
May 24, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this
But I appreciate the jab, either way.N8
That’s all it was too, dude. I even like some of your posts every now & then. Glad your going well, but you oughta give that old friend a call and say howdy.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
Man, what a tough loss for the Mets last night — 13 innings at Colorado, blown save by Wagner….
Happy birthday to Bob Dylan (67), Priscilla Presley (63) and Rosanne Cash (53 — not too old for me, Rosanne).
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
N8, thanks for the cloying update. Glad all’s well.
By Lew
May 24, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
Scoots-What you said at 7:37.
Chase-Before I call you And Idiot yet again, please explain your logic for knowing that HoHo is a terrible pitcher and will remain so eternally. I for one, can’t see much logic in much of anything you ever post, but I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt that you actually have a brain, so take a shot and try to convince me you’re not a complete fool.
Is it because Jurrjens has been good at a young age? Is it because you can tell definitively after less than a dozen ML starts? Come on Genius, let’s hear your scholarly evaluation and not just a bombastic proclamation, signifying nothing.
And yes, THAT was an attack.
By ghbrave
May 24, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this
DOB,what moves do you think will be made in the bullpen once Smoltz, Soriano, and Gonzalez are back from the DL?
By Lew
May 24, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this
Excuse me-JoJo has 16 starts-not under a dozen. Chase is still And Idiot.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this
ghbrave, don’t know. resop’s an obvious one, since he’s only pitched five or six times in the past four weeks.
Bennett has options, always something to keep in mind.
By Lew
May 24, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
ghBrave-Look to the relievers that pitched last night and I imagine the first two would at least partially answer your 11:09 question. Stockman has options. Question answered, I would believe.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this
The Diamondbacks score three total runs while getting swept at Florida, then hit five homers and score 10 runs to beat the Braves.
And the Marlins sweep the D-backs, then lose to Barry Zito.
What a strange, wonderful game.
By Language police
May 24, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this
Caveman, if you really want to see my badge, go ask your wife. She won’t give it back. (Something about a nice little momento of our time together).
Now, let’s clean up the act, buster.
By bruce
May 24, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this
Minor Leaguer Traded for 10 Baseball Bats in Texas
By Shaun
May 24, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
That was not me on May 23, 2008 at 6:36 PM, FYI.
By ghbrave
May 24, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
Do you think Wren will be able to make trades for Resop, Ring or both? Aren’t both out of options? DOB, I will be at the game watching Smoltz tonight at the Tennessee Smokies ballpark in Sevierville,TN. I’m anxious to see how the old man looks.
By It WAS too
May 24, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
Yes it was!
By TJ
May 24, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
During the 2006 and 2007 seasons, the Braves posted their two lowest stolen base totals in any season (52 and 64) as a team since 1975 … It’s also coincidently, the first two season they have garnered losing records against left handed pitching since 1989.
I think that’s a pretty complex (and misguided) view of why we’re not scoring against lefties. Against LHP, there are 5 guys who should “mash”. They are the 2 switch hitters, CJ and Tex, and the three key rh hitters, Frenchy, Diaz and Escobar.
Of that group, only Chipper is performing against lefties (.981 OPS). Of the others, against LHP:
Tex: 2007 - 1.000 OPS; 2008 - .647 OPS
Frenchy: 2007 - .852 OPS; 2008 - .729 OPS
Escobar: 2007 - .870 OPS; 2008 - .679 OPS
Diaz: 2007 - .964 OPS; 2008 - .810 OPS (and falling fast)
League-wide, RH batters against LHP have posted a .798 OPS.
I don’t know what Cox can do about it. If your key righties can’t hit LHP, you’re generally gonna have trouble, and there are not a whole lot of options at this point except wait for them to come around.
By ncscoots
May 24, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
Well, I guess if trying to look at Reyes’ performance and ability objectively makes me an “apologist”, I’ll have to plead guilty. But, believe me, if he were stinking it up on a regular basis, I’d be calling for his head, too.
In any event, look at some of the names being thrown about on the blog as possible trades, and so forth. Most of them back-end starters who are unlikely to deliver any more performance than Reyes has to date. Reyes at least has potential; most of these other scrubs have peaked as back-end starters. Where’s the upgrade in replacing the former with the latter?
No, I don’t think Reyes and/or Campillo will exactly lead the Braves to the Promised Land, but oxymoronic calls for a “solid 5th starter” as replacements just do not compute.
By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)
May 24, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this
Concerning the impending return of Smoltz, Soriano and Gonzalez, we can all agree on one thing. You can never, never, never, never, never……did I say N-E-V-E-R, have enough pitching !
If I had to make adjustments in the personnel, I would make damn sure not to lose more than one pitcher in waivers.
Blaine Boyer, Royce Ring and Chris Resop are all out of minor league options. Thats said, Phil Stockman, Chris Resop and Manny Acosta would be the three guys on the bubble.
Stockman just got called up, he will go right back to Richmond. Resop throws triple digit gas, he just has problems locating and his fastball is straight as an arrow. Acosta has been steady and he deserves to stay with the Braves.
The problem is, Ohman isn’t going anywhere. Bennett is the long man/ground ball pitcher. Ring is the one out lefty specialist and Cox likes having two south paws in his bullpen. Boyer has 28 K’s and 5 walks in 26 innings, he isn’t moving. Campillo is at the moment, in the rotation.
That leaves Acosta as the logical choice to be demoted because he has options and his role as the closer will be filled. No, it’s not fair, especially considering Acosta’s 3 saves in three save opportunity’s.
Then again, the injury bug will probably make everything I just said totally moot !
By richbrave
May 24, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
DAVID O’BRIEN:
That would be sizzle-lean after last night, David.!!
By Random
May 24, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this
chrisklob —
Geezum, Will! As they say, “Physician, heal thyself.”
“don’t bother responding to my posts again. My comment was not directed at you in any way, shape or form. You have proven time and time again to not only be arrogant and unnecessarily disrespectful.”
Those shoes fit more feet than just yours, mine and Coach’s. Get over it — and get over yourself.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this
Richbrave, I guess so. Fourth loss in past 23 home games. Talk about slipping. That’s terrible.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this
Coach, agreed on Stockman. Don’t know how I forgot him when mentioning obvious moves when the other relievers start coming back.
I don’t see him sending Acosta to minors. Could be wrong, but I don’t see it.
By FsuBravesfan10
May 24, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this
Gotta be depressing to be forever known as the kid who was traded for 10 maple bats….
By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)
May 24, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this
O’Brien, I forgot that Mike Gonzalez will be the other lefty if and when he rejoins the team. That leaves Royce Ring as the odd man out along with Stockman and Resop.
By ArkyTech
May 24, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
I think sending Acosta down after all 3 come back makes the most sense. He can close in Richmond to stay sharp be ready in case some of the big 3 get put back on the shelf. Staying with Atlanta will mean only mop up duty for Manny.
By Braveheart
May 24, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
JoJo wasn’t that good last night but I wasn’t totally disgusted. I thought he got rattled after he gave up the first homer in the first inning and turned one mistake into five mistakes. That was his m.o. last season. But as the thing played out, it just looked like he had nothing last night and/or just couldn’t locate. Maybe that had to do with the blister or maybe it was just one of those nights.
But JoJo did show me alot last night in eating up 5 innings in a game that was lost in the first inning. I thought he showed some toughness in being able to take a pounding when he didn’t have his best stuff.
The kid has good stuff. I think he definitely has the potential to be a 3 someday. Before last night, he was 4-2 with a 3.52 ERA and 36 Ks, 18 walks, only 3 homers allowed in his last 46 innings over 9 games, including 8 starts. That’s pretty good.
THe one thing I am looking for with JoJo is toughness because I thought he was like a deer in the headlights at times last year and in spring training this year. But he bounced back towards the end of this year and in the minors and majors this year. So I thought it was good to see him tough it out for 5 innings when he had nothing and had essentially lost the game for his team in the first inning. Showed some maturation to me. It will be interesting to see if he shakes this start off in his next start.
By Bobby's Cox
May 24, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
Without Pena here whats gonna now keep Escobar from taking the highest offer as a Free Agent as soon as he hits that status
What the braves need to do is sign Escobar to a long-term multi-million deal like other teams are doing with their young studs. Pay him more earlier and Escobar will have a millions of reasons to forget that Pena is gone.
I’d think with all the money being freed up this next offseason, we lock up escobar.
By Bobby's Cox
May 24, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
That minor-leaguer traded for 10 bats was once drafted by our own Atlanta Braves.
By Mark in PA
May 24, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
Mets GM, ownership supporting Randolph
Whew! Willie must be so relieved! That is just what they need to say…
Right before they fire the manager.
Note also that Minaya had to get out of NYC to say it.
By Overlord
May 24, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
And the Marlins sweep the D-backs, then lose to Barry Zito. - DOB
I saw at the beginning of this week a deep analysis (kind of) on Barry Zito and they were making emphasis on how his stuff was getting better, they were saying they expected him to win a little bit more often.
Bennett has options, always something to keep in mind. - **DOB
Im not sure if you will agree with me, but right now, I think bennett is the last pitcher bobby would get rid of. He loves his versatility, and he loves the fact he can count on him almost everyday without being disappointed. Just my opinion. I believe your thinking is pretty the same as mine in this matter.
By Mark in PA
May 24, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
My post above just further highlights (by contrast with the Mets) what a quality organization the Braves have.
By Bobby's Cox
May 24, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
Flashback: Tom Glavine, 22-years-old 1988: 34 starts, 7-17, 195.3 IP, 1 CG, 111 R, 99 ER, 63 BB, 84 SO, 4.56 ERA
Tom Glavine, 25-years-old 1991: 34 starts, 20-11, 246.7 IP, 9 CG, 83 R, 70 ER, 69 BB, 192 SO, 2.55 ERA
Difference:
The Braves weren’t expected to be a postseason team in 1988-1991. They could let the likes of Glavine struggle in the Majors and develope their young arms.
If you’d expect the braves to lay low for the next 3 seasons while we let Jo Jo, Morton, Hanson, et all develope their arms in the majors then I have no rebuttle to your argument.
However, we are in a baseball age where young players and pitchers are dominating the sport and an Altanta team that is supposed to be playoff bound. Fans expecting Jo Jo to pitch well should not be so disregarded as you make it sound. He has pitched quite well actually.
With that said, shame on the rest of you for getting on Jo Jo. He had 1 bad game. The Braves had their first blowout loss of the season. Games like last night are going to happen.
Let the blister heal, let the braves recoup from last night. If we start to see a trend in Reyes and some more blowout losses, then get worried. In the meantime, enjoy the hot homestand and watching young exticing pitchers like Reyes, Yunel, JJ, Blanco, etc… play.
By midtownBrave
May 24, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
gotigers72 couldn’t agree with you more on what you said about JoJo. He has good stuff and you hate to see a young pitcher not trust his stuff and go after hitters especially when he’s so successful doing that in the minors. Its like he’s enjoying himself out there and is putting too much pressure on himself (i guess that would explain why he’s sweating so profusely).
Bobby’s Cox he’s from Atlanta, but he was drafted by the Giants.
By Bobby's Cox
May 24, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
Midtown Brave
thanks for the correction on John Odom. You’re right, he’s from atlanta, not drafted by the braves. my mistake.
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
RE: Reyes
Many of you guys really give new meaning to the phrase “fair weather fans.” It’s amazing how many people turn on a young player after one bad start.
Reyes has shown so much progress this year in terms of command and poise and obviously the blister was a factor.
You pitchers are inconsistent. That’s called DEVELOPMENT. Look at Glavine 1st two years in the majors…awful.
Did the Braves give up on him? No, but there’s a key difference. We sucked back then so there wasn’t as much pressure on Glavine to win games. The fans could be patient. Now that we’re constantly contending, we need everyone to contribute so there’s more pressure-and in turn less patience from fans- on Jo-Jo to perform well immediately. The environment and circumstances were more conducive for Glavine to develop. So despite the differences and the fact we’re in a pennant race, fans need to be patient with Jo-Jo.
Somebody mentioned Jurrjens and how he’s 22 years old. Yeah, well he’s SPECIAL. I’m glad that person isn’t our GM because if he expects every young pitcher to come in and dominate early, he’d trade most of our young pitchers.
Players also develop at different rates. A guy like Kerry Wood came in and dominated and then he leveled off, partly due to injuries. There are tons of other perfect examples. Charlie Morton, at the age of 24, is just starting to put his talent together. Again, that’s DEVELOPMENT- it’s an imperfect science.
This post is long-winded and unorganized but I felt I needed to make these points because the reactions to Jo-Jo’s performance are ridiculous. Big, lefties who can throw 94 mph and have a four pitch arsenal don’t grow on trees. Anyone who hasn’t seen progress in Jo-Jo this year isn’t looking.
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox,
Fantastic stuff yet again- great minds think alike. If I had know you were posting that, I would have saved my long winded post.
By h_charles
May 24, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
As someone said earlier, compare him to Jair. The mental toughness and savvy difference is remarkable.
JJ goes after guys. He pounds the zone. That is how to do it.
JoJo messes around, bites and nibbles. Can’t find the zone. Doesn’t get ahead.
DOB — young studs do struggle, but I’m not sure JoJo has the stuff the to be a front line starter.
Unlike other teams young guns — Hamels, Prior before getting hurt, etc., JoJo has very good, not blow you away stuff.
When Hamels gets knocked around b/c he’s wild, you can take heart that he has the stuff when on to do what he did to us a few nights ago. He is nasty.
JoJo isn’t nasty. He is good when on, but not dominant. At least he doesn’t look that way to me.
So, he needs to make sure he uses his head to make up for what his body lacks. Not sure he has that aggressive attitude he will need to thrive. I watch his demeanor. I watch his half-hearted execution on bunts, his lack of intensity. I just hope he has more Smoltz than James between the ears. Time will tell, and the jury is still out, but I certainly wouldn’t chalk up nights like that purely to youth (he has been very fortunate in some earlier starts as well, including his last one, when if not pulled he gets lit up there as well).
As long as he is the #5, fine. At the #4, he is a bit worrisome.
By Overlord
May 24, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
Heres the menu to start june
vs MARLINS
vs PHILLIES
@ CUBS
@ ANGELS
Kind of rough Id say than rougher than this homestand. Suddenly the marlins should be consider as part of a though schedule. Go figure.
By CC Rider
May 24, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
Just read Mark Bowman at mlb.com. He said Campillo had blister problems after his start Tuesday, but was going to try to pitch today. Let’s hope we don’t have another melt down like last night’s!!!!!!!!
By TNRON
May 24, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
Greg in TN; I thought you would be there last night,wish I could have said hello.BTW,did you see my wife and I almost get hit with that check swing screamer early in the game (we were in 115 at the top).I still think she should have caught it!Maybe I will see you tonight. I usually sit on the 3rd base side and will be wearing my Braves batting practice hat.
By TNRON
May 24, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this
FloridaBrave; excellent post on pitcher development
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
We got Infante (2B), Blanco (CF) and Corky (C) going today, stacked righty lineup against Big Unit (though Kotsay is 4-for-15 with a homer against him).
Corky worked so well with Campillo last time, Bobby figured this was best day to give a rest to McCann, first of three consecutive hot day games.
By GeorgetownKid
May 24, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
Between playing out JV lineup and facing a solid lefty starter, this could be a rough one for us today.
Let’s hope Campillo can come through for us again!
Either that, or we have to hope that Corky’s repeated weak dribblers to the pitcher tire Johnson prematurely.
Who says he can’t contribute with the bat in his hands?
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
Smoltz pitching 7th inning tonight for Mississippi….
Hampton threw from 90 feet for second time in three days, will do it a few more times before a sim game, which could happen on the road trip or right afterward. After that, rehab assignment….
Gonzalez threw one inning with one strikeout in extended spring game vs. Tigers today, his back-to-back days test completed. He’s on his way to Atlanta to be examined before going on rehab assignment….
H Charles, if you’d seen Tom Glavine in his first couple of seasons, I’d love to see what you’d have said about him.
And NO, I’m not saying Jo-Jo’s going to be Glavine, because it’s safe to say he’s not a future Hall of Famer and 300-game winner.
All I’m saying is, what you or any other of us non-scouts think really isn’t overly important when you’re talking about a pitcher that young, that inexperienced.
Just have to wait and see. Just too early to know. But when I hear Bobby and Roger and Glavine say the things they say about Jo-Jo, I at least am smart enough to let that temper my own view, which has been similar to yours — not overly impressed with Jo-Jo most nights.
His stuff’s way better than what you describe, though.
Oh, and Mark Prior? Who cares about his stuff if he can’t ever use it? You want the most fragile young pitcher in recent memory on your team?
By Bobby's Cox
May 24, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
h_charles
gotta disagree with your last post.
a dominating pitcher can either attack hitters like Smoltz, or hit spots like glavine or maddux. In fact, this team has a harder time hitting the soft-throwing lefties than the harder throwing pitchers, so I find it odd that you can state what you stated about Jo Jo.
i’d guess that you like the dominating pitchers better. So do I actually. But it’s not fair to say that Jo Jo can’t be successful by nibbling and hitting corners & hitting spots.
In fact, Cleveland’s Aaron Laffey hardly throws hard. But he’s a young, soft-throwing lefty like JJ that’s having lots of success.
From Yahoo:
[Laffey’s] repertoire – 86-89 mph sinker, mid-80s slider, elusive change – won’t blaze the brows of opposing hitters, but his surgical precision (1.69 BB/9) and ability to induce groundballs (51.8 GB%) indicate his speedy start isn’t fluky. Laffey recently told the Akron Beacon-Journal that his sudden success is primarily due to a modified slider, which moves more sharply than last season.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
Coach, agreed on likelihood of your 1:18 p.m. post scenario. Just had the conversation with another writer here, and that makes the most sense, since they won’t need three lefties and Ring has been effective against single lefty batters but not much else.
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
May 24, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
YO Random
Now that’s funny. I have Dan Magill’s number in my cell phone. But you go ahead and think what you want and while you’re doing that I will be dropping by another business friend’s house today - some guy named Bruce McWhorter.
Maybe you’ve heard the name. His family is a major contributor to UGA - you know - that’s why their name is on the athletic dorm.
But you keep up the good commentating, and I’ll keep laughing my as$ off.
You’re pathetic , DUDE.
By Bobby's Cox
May 24, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
thanks FloridaBrave!
Holy Moly…what’s up with these blisters? Do some yard work in the offseason braves pitchers.
I’ve seen that smoltz can make cool braves logos in nicely fertilized lawns.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
FloridaBrave, fine grasp of the subject matter (2:17). Bravo, sir….
h_charles, consider: 5-17, 5.52 ERA, 177-2/3 innings, .289 opp. average, 83 walks, 78 strikeouts.
Those were Glavine’s totals after his first 33 starts in the majors.
What would you have done with him? Didn’t exactly blow you away with stuff, so with those numbers and his non-Prior stuff, would you have traded the future Hall of Famer?
Just asking.
Or how ‘bout this one: 5-9, 4.67 ERA, 96-1/3 innings, 49 walks, 63 strikeouts.
Those were Smoltz’s numbers in his first 17 starts.
Or this: 6-11, 5.04 ERA, .293 opp. avg, 123-1/3 innings, 52 walks, 81 strikeouts.
Those were Maddux’s numbers in his first 22 games (20 starts).
Trade him. That little Maddux guy can barely hit 90 mph. Trade him and get me a retread veteran to fill the back end of my rotation.
By McFann
May 24, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
Aw, nuts!
By Stephen
May 24, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
I can’t understand Kelly Johnson being platooned. I just can’t.
By gobravesss
May 24, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
DOB, is Soriano ready to be activated?
By McFann
May 24, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
Stacked righty lineup, eh? Might we be looking at another no-hitter, here?
Just kidding. Heh heh…We still have a guy with a .415 AVG in there.
Little nervous, yeah…
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
Stephen, it’s a righty-stacked lineup today. I asked Kelly and he’s never faced Randy Johnson, said it was perfectly understandable to have Infante in today.
I really don’t think it’s going to be a straight platoon. I think Bobby was trying to get Infante a lot of at-bats right after he got up, to get him up to speed. I think you’ll see Infante play some CF, some 2B, a little SS and 3B on rare occasions (or more if an injury, obviously).
But as long as Kelly’s hitting so well, I do think he’ll be in there against some or most lefties (like he was last night against lefty Doug Davis).
By TJ
May 24, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
I can’t understand Kelly Johnson being platooned. I just can’t.
Stephen, I’m a HUGE Kelly Johnson fan - love his bat - and think he’ll eventually play every day. But gotta say… he struggled the first month of the season, and then Bobby started sitting him against lefties some, and KJ’s been a monster in May (OPS over 1.000).
I don’t think it’s a strict platoon (KJ did start last night against a LHP); it’s Bobby trying to put guys in a “position to succeed”, which is cliche’, but does seem to be paying off.
Plus, Infante has hit lefties well so far; and the D’backs only have one lefty in the pen, and he pitched last night; so we may see KJ (plus McCann and Kotsay) in the later innings.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
Soriano COULD be activated tomorrow or, more likely, Monday. Bobby said hadn’t decided yet. I’d bet he’s activated by the road trip Tuesday.
By TJ
May 24, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Plus - Wow! - Left-handed batters are hitting .063… that’s OH SIXTY THREE … against Randy Johnson this year. (Righties, .301, btw).
By Dan
May 24, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
Like DOB said. Have to wait and see with JoJo. But for some of you comparing him with Glavine and others, just doesn’t make any sense. Lets compare others then… How bout D.Moss, Hor.Ram., C.James, K.Davies, and many more that DIDN’T pan out. so the JJ/Glavine comparing makes no sense.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
Lefties this season vs. Big Unit: 1-for-16 with two walks, six strikeouts.
Hard to believe that’s all he’s faced in seven starts, but it is.
Righty hitters are hitting .301 against him (41-for-136), which explains the stacked lineups.
By AndrewS
May 24, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
Anybody know how many pitches Campillo could throw today?
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
Good, got that out of the way (a hit)….
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
Dan,
Nobody’s comparing Jo-Jo and Glavine. Glavine was used as an example to show young pitchers need time to develop as most don’t come in and light it up immediately. Many young pitchers don’t pan out, but the point is you can’t make that determination after a young pitcher’s 15th career start.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Dan, it’s called making a point. Why would I compare his numbers to guys who DIDN’T PAN OUT if I’m trying to say, you just can’t judge a pitcher based on his first year or fewer starts?
I’m not saying he’s going to be an ace; not saying that at all. Obviously there’s little if any chance he’ll ever be like one of the Big Three. I’m merely stating that you could never have looked at Glavine’s performance at a similar point in his career, or Maddux’s, and predicted they’d be 300-game winners someday.
That’s all. I think most others here probably understand the purpose of the stats, to make a point. You don’t, but I’m guessing most here do.
By A-ville Ranger
May 24, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
Reyes was bad last night but unlike some (see Chuck James)there is nothing inherent in his mechancis or approach that would lead me to think he can’t succeed in this league.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
We’ve got Kirstie Alley in the second row of the Suntrust Club seats, on the Arizona side, right by the ondeck circle. Her daughter on her left and her son on her right, for those watching at home.
By Efrim
May 24, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this
If we are to actually win games against lefties….Frenchy and Diaz have to start hitting, and with power, right?
By Dan
May 24, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this
I do understand the “point” but i’m just saying to all that are bashing JJ. that like you said, we’ll have to wait and see. Baically saying its too early to judge him just yet. Regardless of how Glavine and others started. Thats all i was trying to say.
By prattvillenolzfan
May 24, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
Not that this matters….
May 24 SS Clint Barmes suffered a sprained right knee in the 10th inning when Mets shortstop Jose Reyes slid hard into second when he led off the inning by hustling a blooper into a double. “I don’t feel any pain, and I’m hoping two weeks (out), but we are going to have an MRI (Saturday) and see,” said Barmes.
Didn’t see the play, so I shouldn’t really comment…BUT looks like this is becoming a trend……
Saw where Minaya gave Randolph the proverbial kiss of death when he gave Randolph a vote of confidence….Minaya said they would “talk” when the Mets got back into town Tuesday…..
Johnson sure looks good today….
By Braveheart
May 24, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
We’ve got Kirstie Alley in the second row of the Suntrust Club seats, on the Arizona side, right by the ondeck circle. Her daughter on her left and her son on her right, for those watching at home.
Were the all you can eat seats sold out?
By Bravesfan79
May 24, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
Wow Corky is on FIRE…..hes hitting 1000!! Owait… thats .100
Common the guy hits like a American League pitcher.
We got rid of Pena for a guy who “calls a good game” once a week. 2 bad in all the other games hes pretty much about as usefull as Chris Woodcrap as a pinchitter. Its hard to believe his average is below even Chris Woodcraps… but damn!
WHY! The more i see corky, the special olympics runner-up in the javelin (only because he “accidently” speared all the other competitiors) the more im convinced he should not be on this team!
By Braves Fan in PA
May 24, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
I agree with the logic if we get Gonzalez, Smoltz and Soriano all back with the likely candidates to go are Ring, Stockman and Resop.
But what about this. I saw Rejes pitch in Philly and though everyone says he pitched good he still gave up a lot of hits and yesterday wasn’t exactly a major league performance. I also think Stockman deserves more of a chance so what about sending Rejes back down and give Bennett a shot? OK I am not expecting him to be as great as Campillo has been these two starts but if he keeps us in the game its more then Rejes has and our bullpen has another potential late inning arm.
By Braveheart
May 24, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
Team is reeling …. manager’s head is in the guillotine …… kind of a big game for May …… Billy Wagner of course came up small ….. what else is new?
By BravesFanInRockies
May 24, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
Out here in Denver stuck watching Fox show the Muts beat up the Rox. AA Muts callup Nick Evans has two opposite-field doubles in his first two ML ABs.
Anyway, the word on Pedro — rumors that he might retire now aren’t true. Pedro’s ailing father wants to see him pitch again. Of course, that doesn’t mean he won’t retire after this season … or if he gets hurt again this year.
By Braves Fan in PA
May 24, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
I think there are certain players that Bobby just doesn’t seem to give a fair chance to. Devine was one after he got shell shocked last year he seemed to be the odd man out. I think Pena is another one. OK, I didn’t see him catch enough to know if he was that bad but with McCann catching just about every day you’ld figure he would be more valuable as a bat off the bench and the rare start. Maybe the organization felt he just couldn’t catch?
By Kevin
May 24, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
ZING!
Nice one Braveheart!
By BravesFanInRockies
May 24, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
Campillo must be dealin’ again. What a pickup this winter.
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
May 24, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
Nice to hear the high level of praise that Campillo is getting from the announcers on Fox today.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
Might just have left game because of 59 pitches on short rest, after making his first start in a few years and going longer than expected in that one.
Would be understandable.
4 innings, 2 hits, 3 K’s, no walks.
Looking like Braves have a starter.
By chase
May 24, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this
Chasetime to give JO JO a break and let GM make all trades. Take the day off and enjoy the game and family. I understand I always talk to myself.
By Pete H.
May 24, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
Do I even dare ask why Campillo is out after four? Wince.
By Yars
May 24, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
Braveheart….your 4:34 post was cold, man. What is Kirstie Alley doing in Atlanta? Maybe she’s filming Look Who’s Talking III?
By Mike
May 24, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
I get worried when BC does these make shift line ups to get people rest and playing time. Its like we are playing the back up team. I understand about McCann, although Corky (good catcher) has been horrid at the plate. Its like having to face a second pitcher. And Diaz isnt far off. he has been in a slump all year. I would think about trying to find a LF with some pop and better average, if available, and in the meantime give Blanco a shot everyday. At least he works counts, gets walks, and can bunt and run.
And why was Campillo taken out after 4. He was pitching a 2 hitter. Wait let me guess…..blister? Spray some windex on it and wrap it in duct tape and go back out there…Just kidding.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
Sure, I expected Jeff Bennett to get his first major league hit there. Didn’t you guys?
By A-ville Ranger
May 24, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
Campillo got it done today but his pitches didn’t look nearly as sharp as his last start to me.The changup was more on the junk side (good junk) than the textbook kind he has on his best days.That is nitpicking for sure,I really like that 0 beside the ARZ…cool stuff.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this
Braveheart, that Jenny Craig stuff’s working for her, man. She looks good.
By Bobby's Cox
May 24, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
on the west coast i can’t watch the game today, but why did Cox take out Campillo after 4 innings? Is it the blister or pitching on short rest that did him in?
By Kev
May 24, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
DOB
Some people are starting to say Campillo left because of a blister problem…is that true??
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
Blister on right middle finger for Campillo.
By Efrim
May 24, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
Johnson is just dominating this lineup.
By Mike
May 24, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
Braves getting acrried away with the strike outs again. Up to 9 on the day. I know its Randy Johnson, buts its 4.12 ERA Johnson. Were gonna need more than 1 run against this scrappy team. Offense needs to pick it up after yesterdays 1 run.
By Dutchie
May 24, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this
Gotta love Bennet for blooping that one!
Go Braves!!
By Pete H.
May 24, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
Since there is a very good chance that Bennett will never face Johnson again, he’s going to be able to say he OWNED a a hall-of-famer. Pretty good story to tell after he’s retired.
By Efrim
May 24, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this
So…two of our starters have blisters?
Will the injuries ever stop?
By Dutchie
May 24, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this
hmmm…inning should have been over, tight there!
Come on Bennet!
By Bo
May 24, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
N8 I agree man- another year to bitccccch. Love to read your blogs. Bennett is in big trouble. Go Braves.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
WOW, what a play by Escobar (and scoop by Tex).
Escobar didn’t look like “betrayal” was weighing too heavy on his mind there.
By Slider29
May 24, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this
What a play…trade an easy double play for an impossible one. I’ll take it.
By Braveheart
May 24, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this
Oh my freaking gawd! Yunel is a freak.
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this
Unbelievably huge double play ball there from Bennett after putting himself in a jam.
Now let’s get some more runs!
By Efrim
May 24, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
DOB
Would thr blister be a DL thing? I know Beckett always had those blister problems and at times needed a couple of weeks.
Nice DP.
By Dutchie
May 24, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
Yuuuuu neeeeeeeeeeell!
By Pete H.
May 24, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
Jeff “Houdini” Bennett
By MAV
May 24, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this
Stop crying about Pena, hes not that good to begin with.
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this
Just saw the highlight of the double play- Tex’s defense just saved two runs there. Heckuva pick over there…
By McFann
May 24, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this
I understand about McCann, although Corky (good catcher) has been horrid at the plate. Mike
I think we’ve just been very spoiled the last few years in terms of hitting from the catching position. Although under .100 isn’t very good…at all…sorry Corky.
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this
Bennett’s inability to get ahead of hitters finally catches up to him…
Well, time for us to swing the bats.
By kirknga
May 24, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this
I’m not enjoying having the Diamondback’s announcers working the game.
By TJ
May 24, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this
d@mn these walks.
Walks, I d@mn thee!
By JimD
May 24, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this
At least it’s not Buck and McCarver, but geez, Sutton and Grace are putting me to sleep.
By Dutchie
May 24, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this
that’s a tough deal. Close call on 2nd, but a definate out after Upton slid over the bag.
But Bennet was honestly doing a bit toooo much of a ‘Houdini’ (nice one Pete H)
Go Braves!
By Murphy
May 24, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this
Why is Kirstie Alley at a Braves game?
By Dan
May 24, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this
Damn UMPS. getting tired of these bad calls going against the braves.
By Efrim
May 24, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this
Arizona is a team I have no desire to see the rest of the season.
By Deep Throat
May 24, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this
I’m so glad the Braves got rid of Brayan Pena and kept the offensive black hole that is Corky Miller.
By Dan
May 24, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
Just wondering why BC didn’t put in 3B Mac in for Corky either. Time to get the REAL bats in there BC.
By Efrim
May 24, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this
I hope BC doesn’t put Bennett back out there.
By The Realist
May 24, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this
MAV, so Pena’s not that good huh? I assume you think Miller is better? One plays good defense, the other plays good offense. A valid argument can be made for both. Nobody’s crying. You can’t blame a person having issue with sending out a good hitter that’s so-so behind the plate for a sub-.100 hitter who’s solid behind the plate. Like I said, an argument can be made for both guys.
Anyway…
With the slumping Diaz in the lineup minus McCann’s bat, I’m not surprised we’re having trouble scoring any runs today.
By prattvillenolzfan
May 24, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this
With Cox resting our starters today, at least we’ll have the advantage if/when it goes into extra innings.
By Tom
May 24, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this
Why is Dorky Miller doing on this roster still?
By Dan
May 24, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
Only positive about Corky. He seems to call a great game. Thats got to be THE main reason he is still on this team. This could’ve should’ve been 2 straight shutouts so far IF the UMPS got that call at 2nd right.
By A-ville Ranger
May 24, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this
Is there a better defensive SS than Escobar ? That last play many players wouldn’t have even backed Chipper up let alone made a clean pick and strong throw from so deep.Of course the bare-hand pick and clean throw on the earier DP was big time.
By The Realist
May 24, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this
I’m p** about that call, but you can’t argue that he was inside the baseline. Horrible rule but the umps got it right. That’s not the first time we’ve been called for that this year. Anybody got any suggestions on a baserunning coach for our guys? LOL…well, screaming a little bit too…
By Deep Throat
May 24, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
Has utility man Omar Infante gotten enough at-bats now that he can please sit on the bench for at least a few days? Please?
By TJ
May 24, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this
Why is it a horrible rule? The catcher has to have a path to throw the ball. And you can’t “give” the offense the sacrifice.
I’m bummed about it, but it was clearly the right call. And a “learning experience” for Yunel. (fundamentals, right?)
By THB
May 24, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this
Seeing as two of our starters have blisters, think Morton might get called up for a start?
I read on MLBTradeRumors that the Indians are ready to deal, and they need offense. They probably wouldn’t want Diaz, and Prado probably wouldn’t bring a great return. But their rotation is solid, they’d probably move one of their starters (probably Byrd) for an offensive boost. Doubt they’d part with Laffey, but if they did it would cost us KJ probably.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
Hey, that Francoeur kid ain’t so bad.
By A-ville Ranger
May 24, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
Way go go Frenchy…..GREAT FINISH.
By prattvillenolzfan
May 24, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
……………DAMN…………..
By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)
May 24, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this
Frenchy !
Frenchy !
Frenchy !
Frenchy !
Frenchy !
YEEEEEEEEEE HAAAAAAAAAAA !
By The Realist
May 24, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this
Could the announcers have been any more deadpanned/unenthused about the walk-off homer?
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this
Alright!
You can say what you want about Frenchy but he’s always been clutch.
Great win.
By JimD
May 24, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this
Yeah, that Francouer, he only drives in runs when it “doesn’t matter.” LOL
I think he is coming around.
By Pete H.
May 24, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this
Had it in the bag all the way.
Pacing the floor, chewing my nails, muttering about bum umpires..no sir, not me!
Franky seems to be getting well. Amazing what a day off can do.
By Dutchie
May 24, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this
Why does that Francoer allways swing on any first two pitches you throw at him??????
Walk off denizens!!
Go Braves!
By Mark in PA
May 24, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this
Dang that Francoeur. He just can’t lay off that slider.
2-4, with a walk-off homer. The boy needs another day off.
By Greg O.
May 24, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this
Would you believe it? The Braves found yet another way to avoid a one-run win… hahaha
By McFann
May 24, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this
Nice win. Beat them D-Backs!
By Jeff321
May 24, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this
WOW! That was a great home run! WOOOOO!
I am a little disappointed on a couple of fronts though. First off, Campillo not being able to pitch longer.. And Cox’s decision to sit McCann, Johnson, Kotsay on the SAME DAY!
By Murphy
May 24, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this
NICE Frenchy!!
By Disgusted Dem
May 24, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this
Francouer has taken a lot of abuse on here lately from people whose knowledge of baseball is somewhat lacking, being charitable. As Forrest Gump would say, “stupid is stupid does.”
Speaking of stupid, baseball needs to re-think the Escobar play at first. Either move the base into foul territory or extend the baseline to the outside of the base, preferably the latter. If that’s not feasible, at least don’t send the runner on 1st back to 1st when the batter getting hit with a thrown ball had absolutely nothing to do with the other runner advancing. Unfortunately, that’s too logical for those who make the rules.
Tex will get some praise for making a productive out in the inning, but consider what he did and didn’t do. Did he hit the ball hard? Did he hit a long fly ball? Did he hit a sharp grounder? No, no and no. A hard hit ball at a fielder is at least 1 out, maybe 2. But if you barely make contact and hit a dribbler or a weak chopper, you’ve advanced the baserunner and done your job. Failure eq
By Louisville Brave
May 24, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this
Pete H.
Pacing the floor, chewing my nails, muttering about bum umpires..no sir, not me!
Glad I’m not the only one who watches Braves games this way…poetic justice that we won this one after the hose job we got on the double no call at 2nd base
Braves are looking goooooood
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
Frenchy will continue to frustrate bloggers- this will only quiet them- but people did seem to forget that he’s still a good run producer and saves a ton of runs a year for his arm.
Great work by all of our pitchers. When healthy, Campillo definitely has locked up a spot in the rotation. Last start was no fluke. Bennett didn’t have his control today but he worked himself out of jams. And good work by Ohman and Boyer.
Nice play by Yunel, but maybe it’s just me being a former 1B, but the pick by Tex was big time. Sure maybe not a lot of SS’s make that play, but Tex is the one who saved two runs with the pick, IMO.
Chipper continues to hit. Corky, despite his anemic bat, really works well with the staff. Blanco contributed early…
Just a great win against a tough pitcher and tough team with three of our starters out.
By JimD
May 24, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this
THB I don’t think the Indians will be dealing any starting pitching right now with Carmona going on the DL.
By PlayTex
May 24, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this
Jeff321
Did you see that left handed batters are hitting .067 against Randy Johnson this year? Did you notice all those people you were disappointed about not started happened to hit lefty?
I tell you what I am still more than a little upset about. You called Blaine Boyer a LOSER after he saved a game last week, getting the last four outs, and gave up a run. WE WON THE GAME LAST WEEK AND TODAY AND YOU ARE WHINING 10 MINUTES AFTER.
By McFann
May 24, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
I don’t have a big problem with McCann getting this one off. Day-game-after-night-game thing, and like DOB said, three straight HOT day games.
I mean, I know they’re paid to play in the hot summer games, but it didn’t hurt. Better chance to extend the hitting streak to 12 games now.
Good homer, too. The guys waiting at home looked like they were playing Red Rover! So funny…
By eric the elder
May 24, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this
Tex will get some praise for making a productive out …
I had to laugh. My wife and I were having dinner during the game, and the announcers DID give Tex credit for a productive out. Wife turns to me and says, “Aren’t there any inexpensive players in the minors who can make productive outs?”
What Tex DOES deserve credit for is the great pick on Escobar’s unbelievable double play throw.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
Campillo thinks he can make his next start, since he’ll have regular rest this time.
He’s got a couple of blisters on the middle finger and a small one on the index finger, too. Not bad ones, but bad enough.
Don’t know about his next start. Cox wasn’t sure….
Move the base? Yeah, because this game just isn’t functioning properly with the current rules.
By jcmo71
May 24, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
I think it was last night when Skip said something to the affect that Frenchie was already a great player and we’re just waiting to see if he has what it takes to be star.
I am hoping for Star and the hometown discount.
By albanian braves fan
May 24, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this
is reading of campillo with “finger blister”
is also reading on ajc website of “mommy’s bliss nipple cream”.
possibly campillo using on fingers. preventing blisters. just not let babies licking of fingers.
By Cousin Diaz
May 24, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this
Tide seems to have turned, now you get the feeling that something good will happen in the close-and-late situations. Look at the RS/RA the Bravos have posted the last two seasons through this year, they have clearly been victims of bad luck. Then again, having Chips Tex and Frenchy online top-nine in a tied game will mess with the variables, won’t it?
I laughed at Frenchy after the game saying, “I guess we figured out a way to not win a one run game again”, or something to that affect. These Braves are such outliers in so many ways, most particularly about that last run of the game. Statistically speaking, the last run scored in a game is the most important; it winds up being the game winning run more than any other run scored. Maybe Shaun can run the numbers for validation, but I can’t remember more than twice this season where the Braves won a game with the last run scored. Tonight was a classic example.
JoCamp is quite a phenom, is he not? I’m pretty sure the guy could qualify as Rookie of the Year, although JJJ might have a say in that award by the end. Still. What are the qualifications for “comeback playa of the year”? So happy for that guy, particularly since he’s a Brave and not a PhilMet.
By N8
May 24, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
DOB
“N8, thanks for the cloying update. Glad all’s well.”
Wow. Dude. Not very often, I gotta “look up” what a word means. Never heard, much less used the word “cloying” before.
Well done. And you’re welcome….smart azz.
Appears as though we’ve found our 5th starter, if not our 4th starter? Let’s hope the blister isn’t a re-occurring event.
Didn’t watch or listen to a second of the game today. Appears as though it went well.
By Efrim
May 24, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this
Great job by Frenchy. Good win today. It’s important to bounce back after loss following a long winning streak. Don’t want to spoil all that good work done against the Mutts. I’d be happy with one of the next two. Preferably tomorrow against Owings.
By albanian braves fan
May 24, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
is hearing some teams interested in acquiring of corky miller.
question is - how many bats is worth?
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
May 24, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
The Braves do have an intersting situation with Smoltz and Soriano very likely back in the next five days and Gonzo back in probably about 7 to 10 days. Lets not forget that Hampton could be back in about two to three weeks. Well, given he doesn’t pick a spoon up wrong while eating some ice cream and tear his rotator cuff or seperate his shoulder.
One would have to assume Resop is gone. That is one spot. A second spot would be by Stockman getting sent back to the minors. But, what about the third spot. While Bennett does have options, I think would be awfully risky to take him out of the pen considering how well he has pitched overall and he is really the only long reliever they have.
Royce Ring would be difficult to take out considering he has stranded all 19 runners he has inherited. DOB said he doubted Acosta would get demoted although I think he could use a little more seasoning in the minors. I would guess that it will be Bennett though.
Also, Buddy Carlye should be coming off the DL soon but I would assume he’ll get sent to Richmond. Looks like Richmond will have one helluva pitching staff here in the next couple of weeks.
By Jeff321
May 24, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
PlayTex
Yes, I did notice lefty’s don’t hit Randy Johnson very well. But, I would like to know what the right handed hitters average was today against him!
Oh and concerning the “loser” comment.. I would like to apologize to Mr. Boyer and any of his groupies on this blog. Perhaps next time I’ll have something a little more crafty to say.
By albanian braves fan
May 24, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
is seeing blog making fun on barry zito
actually, is very smart guy - devising of zito’s paradox.
zito stating: for motion to be occurring, object must change the position which is occupying. is giving example of baseball in flight. is stating that in any one instant of time, for baseball to be moving, must either move to where it is, or it must move to where it is not. is not moving to where it is not, because this is a single instant, and cannot move to where it is because is already there.
so in any instant of time no motion is occurring, because instant is snapshot. therefore, if cannot move in single instant, cannot move in any instant, making any motion impossible.
explains success of barry zito. before 2008.
By Cousin Diaz
May 24, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this
Disgusted Dem: Are you gonna be one of these guys who rags on Tex all the time? He is what he is, hitting well or not hitting well. What do you and the rest of the Tex-negs propose Bobby do? Bench him, trade him, talk smack to the beat writer from the AJC about him (Thanks, Ozzie), get Matty and Frenchy to beat him up behind the clubhouse one night? It’s like with Andruw last year… for better or worse, he’s your 4-time All-star position player, big thumper, and gold-glover, and any other team in the majors would hand over a bounty to have him in their line-up. He’s in a slump and he’s sucking. WHY AND OR WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO CONTRIBUTE BY RUNNING ON ABOUT IT?
By midaz
May 24, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
albanian braves fan:
Uh, what the hell was that you just posted? Twisted my brain in knots.
By Wayne in Utah
May 24, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
Could Reyes and Campillo wrap their fingers up in duct tape and make a go of it. It works for feet.
Saw a great bumper sticker yesterday:
“Silence is Golden, but duct tape is silver!”
By Wayne in Utah
May 24, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
Dang it, if Frenchy keeps this up, he’s going to give my buddy uga a complex!
By northbeach Scott
May 24, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)your 1:00am post. It stinks to be acused of being a liar, especially when you are not one, doesn’t it? You are way off base on thinking it was me who called you out. I did not.
While I occasionally feel compelled to set some of the more ignorant, boorish, or just plain stupid bloggers straight. I have no quarrel with you. Was just sharing a slice of life that was no big deal, but indeed happened.
By KC
May 24, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this
Let’s keep our fingers crossed…
If we could get Smoltz, Soriano, Gonzalez, AND Hampton back over the next few weeks…
Wow.
What a pitching staff this would be.
By gotigers72
May 24, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this
Some questions. 1 - Why did the Braves designate Brayan and keep Corky instead of vice versa? Is Corky THAT much better defensively than Brayan? To keep a guy hitting .087 rather than a guy hitting in the .280s with some pop just doesn’t add up. UNLESS his defensive skills are that much better.
2 - Why doesn’t someone give Francoeur a key when the catcher stands up behind him? Like yelling “HEY FRENCHY, THE CATCHER’S STANDING UP BEHIND YOU!” Yes, I know he hit the game winning walk off homer, but for teams to continually do that and get away with it [usually striking him out], is ridiculous.
3 - What the heck has happened with Matty D.? I don’t remember him striking out as much as he is now. He has over 30 Ks versus 2-3 walks. He swings and misses at bad pitches and swings through and misses good pitches. It is almost like he needs an eye exam or something. He had one already and had something done to improve his depth perception for outfield play, maybe he needs to go again.
4 - How good a defensive SS is Yunel? That kid can flat play a difficult position. That play he made with the bases loaded to get a double play was just a thing of beauty. 5 - Is Campillo for real? That’s two games that he has made major league hitters look bad. If he’s for real, this rotation could be downright nasty, to go along with a nasty bullpen. He does what is known as pitching as opposed to what some of the younger pitchers do what is known as throwing.
and 6 - What’s up with the blisters? I know the stitches on the ball can be rough on the tips of fingers. I can see it on Campillo because he hasn’t really had but 2 starting situations where he had to throw enough pitches to rub a place raw. I believe that Nolan Ryan used to soak the tips of his fingers in pickle brine to toughen them up. Especially for that filthy curve ball he threw. Can you imagine the torque that put on that sensitive spot? Whatever he did it worked. After all, he only had 5,000 and something strikeouts.
By northbeach Scott
May 24, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
Randy Johnson was nasty, today. He really looked like he was throwing free and easy out there. Although he rarely got above 91MPH, he really owned the plate. He makes for a solid #3 or #4 starter for the Snakes.
D-Backs are going to be a problem come playoff time for the Braves, if they can every get their hitting going. It will be interesting to see who the D-Backs pick up to help with offense by the trade deadline—something to keep an eye on for the Braves faithful.
Corky looked good behind the plate today and does appear to call a good game, something that Brayan Pena was incapable of doing. Given how few games he will catch because of the durable and talented B-Mac. His BA will likely continue to suffer. That is not his purpose.
Our buddy Matty Diaz looks really lost right now at the plate. Not sure how one would go about coaching such an unorthodox hitter. Hope he can review some tape of last season and figure it out. Unfortuately, I think it likely the opposing pitchers have finally recogized he often swings at the first two pitches and they are just not giving him anything hittable.
I think Escobar makes the All Star team this year. He has done a great job cutting down errors on routine plays (ala Furcal) and he is exceptional on the challenging plays (with a little help from Tex). If you have not voted, yet. Keep him in mind for your 25 votes. I am going to vote my wife’s proxies tonight.
While Bobby and FW will have to make some tough choices when the big 3 Closers return over the next week or so, that is a good problem to have. The kind of situation that screams what a good job of creating pitching depth that FW has done. Love to see Soriano in Monday’s game as my Father, StepMom and Wife will be joining me to see Webb and Jurjens dual it out.
By Section 412
May 24, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
Just back from the Ted a little while ago and catching up on the blog. A couple of points —
Diaz is lost. He had no chance / clue today. Need to find some magic for him or pull back even more on his PT (though playing through it may be necessary to break out of it - a quandry).
Lots of love on the blog for Escobar on the sweet DP and lots of angst over Tex at the bat. A couple of posters have pointed this out, but PLEASE don’t lose sight of the fact that Tex may have saved the game with the pick on that same DP. Sweet doesn’t even begin to describe it. Tex was a key to this game, no doubt about it.
By KC
May 24, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
Is Kristie Alley a Braves fan? I guess I’m always a little surprised to see any celebrity in the stands (or posh leather seats - in this case), given that this isn’t LA or NY.
I was kind of surprised to learn that Elton John is a huge Braves fan. Never would have guessed that.
By H-Ram
May 24, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
Mike Hampton doesnt exist to me…erased from the universe..im never EVER going to count on that guy on anything related to pitching again…what a wuss..
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
gotigers,
1)Yes, Miller’s a far superior defensive catcher. I also don’t believe Pena would be a .280 hitter- I saw a lot of hole sin his swing. We’ll get something for him.
2)That’s not really “accepted” in baseball but I’m sure teams do tip off players with something less obvious.
3)I don’t know about Diaz, but if he doesn’t get his act together by the trade deadline and we have the opportunity to acquire some right-handed pop, i think action will be taken. He never really offered much outside of hitting for average- his OBP was inflated by his high average, he had sub-par power, sub-par defense, maybe average-above average speed though. So when he doesn’t hit for average, he doesn’t offer us much.
4)Best defensive SS in the league based on what I’ve seen. I’m glad you brought this up because we don’t give him enough credit. And that doesn’t come from a biased Braves fan- even thought I’m usually objective- stats back it up.
5)Yes. He commands like 5 different pitches and changes speeds extremely effectively. He can throw his secondary pitches for strikes which makes him tricky because it allows him to pitch backwards. Don’t expect the sub 1.00 ERA to continue but he’s definitely for real- very Livan Hernandez-like.
6)I don’t know, but let’s hope they don’t pee on their hands like Moises Alou.
By KC
May 24, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this
Terrance Moore is way off base. Replay is a good thing, and it should absolutely be instituted asap.
Not only should there be replay for homerun calls… it should also be used for plays at the plate.
You can’t possibly tell me that it takes less time to have a manager out arguing a call for 5 minutes. Replay will actually SAVE time, in my opinion, AND it will improve accuracy.
Additionally, I think it’s time to automate the strikezone. If Questech is accurate… then I say, put it in every part, and use it to call balls in strikes.
Umpires can wear an earpiece or hold a device that tells them whether the pitch is a strike or a ball, at which time the umpire makes the call aloud.
I see no reason to resist improving the accuracy of umpiring in the game, so long as it doesn’t make the game noticeably longer.
How would it feel to watch a division title or a World Series title be decided by a bad call??
Surely, this has already happened somewhere, at some time. No reason for it.
We now have the technology to improve accuracy without detracting from the game. We should take advantage of it!
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this
northbeach Scott,
The D-Backs will mean trouble for everybody come playoff team. They’ve got the best pitching staff in the league, IMO, and that’s backed by tremendous defense. They’re obviously tremendously athletic with a ton of young guys who can run very well. Their achilles heel though will be their hitting. They can hit, don’t get me wrong, but expect their young guys to be extremely streaky up there. If their hot during the playoffs, no one may be able to match-up. If they’re cold, teams can match-up. I guess that’s a pessimistic view coming from a Braves fan but their organization has done an amazing job.
By Jeff321
May 24, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this
Concerning Matt Diaz.. He seems to be emulating softball players who slap the ball, except he swings like a heavyweight! Can’t someone tell him to stand still until contact is made? Seriously he is walking towards the pitcher most times, and of course his gigantic strike zone makes for a “zig-zag” prior to whiffing. With that in mind, I do realize he does get hits sometimes.. just not lately.
By newteamgear.com
May 24, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this
bravo jeff. this is exactly what we need. fyi new team gear especially socks are now in stock. nike , reebok, puma do not even have these. check it out!!!!!!!!!!!
rock on braves.
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this
Yup, that’s what I’ve been saying Section 412. Tex may not have scored any but he no doubt saved two. We might(probably?) lose that game if that play isn’t made.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
May 24, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
I could be very wrong about this but I’m thinking the Matt Diaz phenomenon is wearing off. I’m beginning to think he could be traded or even DFAd if he doesn’t get it turned around very quickly. The Braves need another bat in LF and since B. Jones doesn’t seem to be ready yet that player would need to be acquired via trade.
I still like the idea of Xavier Nady. Surely the Pirates don’t believe they are really in that race in the Central? Do they? I also like Randy Winn but he may make too much money. Somebody else who could be sought after is the Cubs’ Matt Murton. Of course, the Cubs act like Murton is the second coming of Andre Dswson and are always asking a king’s ransom for him.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
May 24, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
I could be very wrong about this but I’m thinking the Matt Diaz phenomenon is wearing off. I’m beginning to think he could be traded or even DFAd if he doesn’t get it turned around very quickly. The Braves need another bat in LF and since B. Jones doesn’t seem to be ready yet that player would need to be acquired via trade.
I still like the idea of Xavier Nady. Surely the Pirates don’t believe they are really in that race in the Central? Do they? I also like Randy Winn but he may make too much money. Somebody else who could be sought after is the Cubs’ Matt Murton. Of course, the Cubs act like Murton is the second coming of Andre Dswson and are always asking a king’s ransom for him.
By eric the elder
May 24, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
albanian braves fan
Your 7:27 is hilarious. Please know that this is one blogger who looks forward to your imaginative stuff. Great comedy relief.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this
This is unbelievable: Smoltz is supposed to pitch the seventh inning, and right now Mississippi’s batting in the top of the seventh.
But guess what? The Mississippi pitcher, 28-year-old Jerome Gamble, is throwing a no-hitter. I kid you not.
Do they take him out, or wait until he gives up a hit to let Smoltz pitch his inning?
Stay tuned.
By Braves20
May 24, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
After catching up on a DVR of today’s game and the blog:
Thanks Frenchy for overcoming the five out 7th inning the umpiring crew and the wind permitted the D-Backs.
What a treat to have the D-Backs cheerleading squad telecast the game. What the hell is Fox thinking?
Designating B. Pena is going to bite us you know where.
And that guy about 50% of the blog said could become a decent utility infielder last year is doing pretty good until we can find a real shortstop.
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
UPDATE ON SOME PROSPECTS
Charlie Morton
5.0 IP 6 H 4 R 2 ER 4 BB 6 SO
Stat line doesn’t look amazing- he did struggle with his control a bit- but the defense didn’t do Charlie any favors…3 Errors(2 by Lillibridge) and 2 stolen bases given up.
I also looked at his Groundball:Flyball Outs ratio since last start it was 14:1- It was 5:4 but 5 of the 6 hits were groundball hits and I also mentioned the 3 errors by INFers. So it looks like his groundball tendencies continue- he’ll fair better with a better defense behind him but he’ll also have to have better control than he did.
Thomas Diamond, got the win in his Myrtle Beach debut going 6 IP 6 H 2 R 2 ER 1 BB 5 SO. *1B Ernesto Mejia paced the offense going 2-5 with 2 HR and 3 RBI
Despite a poor start by Cole Rohrbough,(4 IP 5 H 4 R 3 ER 2 BB 6 SO), Rome is out in front of Hickory 7-4 in the 5th inning. The offense is lef by Cody Johnson who is 2-3 with 1 HR 3 RBI 2 RS and Freddie Freeman is 2-4 with 1 HR 1 RBI and 2 RS. **Jason Heyward is 1-3 with a RS and a walk.
For Mississipe, Jerome Gamble, while not a prospect, lost his no-hitter in the 7th as Mississippy currently trails Tennessee 3-2
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
Dude gave up a two-run homer in the seventh, but finished the inning.
Smoltz will pitch the eighth, I presume.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
Designating B. Pena is going to “bite” the Braves? You’re kidding, right?
By Yars
May 24, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
Man some of you losing faith in Diaz. His bat will heat up soon. I kinda dig the Diaz/Blanco LF platoon. I can’t see Wren addressing LF before the trade deadline. I think starting pitching is far more important. Also, let’s lay off Corky Miller. Sure, it’s a bit sad what happened to B. Pena. The positive is, he’ll hook up with another team real soon. Way to go Frenchy! I love Frenchy, but I still wouldn’t be shocked if Kelly Johnson finishes the season with more HR than Frenchy. I am dying to try that Chipper &Mc Cann named wine. DOB…..have you tried it yet? now playing: only happy when it rains by Garbage.
By Cousin Diaz
May 24, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
KC, I’m with you all the way. Baseball is unique amongst North American sport in that the rules have very specific does and don’ts. The One exception is the strike zone, and if they can get that Questec thing to maintain consistency, then go on with it. Get the home plate umpire back behind the pitcher like in the olden days and “play ball!”.
By Greg O.
May 24, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
I just heard on the M Braves broadcast that Smoltz pitched a clean inning - 1 IP, 1 infield hit that they said should’ve been an out, O R, 0 BB, 0 K.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
Smoltz scoreless inning with one hit.
Waiting for more details.
By Kev
May 24, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
Smoltz down in Mississippi:
1 IP, 1 “hit”(it was a infield hit,no one covered 1st on a grounder to Smoltz),0 BB,0 SO…so Smoltzie is doing good..now on to Monday…
By Andruw watch
May 24, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
Yesterday, 0-1 w/ K as PH. Current avg .165
JJS, umm… ABF.. nice to see you back.
By prattvillenolzfan
May 24, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
The hell with Smoltz
Let’s bring up this Gamble kid
By Yars
May 24, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this
DOB…..If you have VH1 Classic channel, the next couple months they are showing, ‘Classic Albums - the Doors.’ A 1 hour program on the making of the Doors self titled debut album. If you haven’t seen it yet, I suggest you do. I know you respect the Doors. Some great footage of Jim Morrison & company.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
Smoltz faced four batters, gave up one hit, got two flyouts and one groundout.
By eric the elder
May 24, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
KC How would it feel to watch a division title or a World Series title be decided by a bad call??
I can give you an example. The Cleveland Indians last won a World Series 60 years ago. In one game, Bob Feller was pitching a no hitter, but he had a runner on 2nd with the score tied at 0-0.
Feller and Lou Boudreau used a pick off play. The runner was out by three feet, but the ump called him safe. The hitter then singled to score the runner, and Feller lost a 1-hitter by a score of 1-0.
The next day, the top half of the front pages of the Cleveland newspapers showed a huge photo of the runner being so out it was ridiculous. It didn’t cost the Indians the championship, but it could have, and it erased what might have been a World Series no hitter.
Some of this is from my childhood recollection, so please don’t present me with the Your.And.Idiot award if you Google it and find an errant detail.
By Cousin Diaz
May 24, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
Can anything besides injury shake Chipper out of this hitsmanship? DOB keeps posting updates so we all know what he’s done in the last 2-3 years and 200 or so games while playing, which is absolutely mash, but has he become the John Smoltz of hitting now? Which is to say that as long as he is 100%, he is THE BEST PLAYER in baseball? It’s real early yet, and maybe I’m jinxing it, but is it possible that Chips might crack .400 for the season? His balance at the plate, his pitch recognition, his bat control, his effing wisdom! He seems to know what every pitch is going to be! Like he knows the pitching coaches better than the pitchers!
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
Apparently the only hit Smoltz allowed was an infield hit to Smoltz when Kaaihue failed to cover first base, at least that’s what broadcasters said.
By prattvillenolzfan
May 24, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
While it’s great to hear the news about Smoltz/Soriano/Gonzelez coming back (to all the idiots who keep mentioning Hampton…Aint gonna happen..) Let’s keep in mind that they (except possibly Smoltz) won’t be 100%…
I would say that we need to bring Soriano and Gonzalez slowly, maybe middle relief until they get back into the swing of things……
Our bullpen has been lights out lately, we could possibly be taking a chance with chemistry if we depend on those 3 right off the bat…Right now we have the luxury of bringing them in slowly….
By northbeach Scott
May 24, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
Yars On What do you base your opinion that Diaz’s “bat will heat up soon?” When Kotsay was hitting line drives at people, you knew he would come around, same with Tex. With Diaz, he is almost as lost at the plate right now as Andruw has been for two years. That is not to say he will come around, but he is no where close to that happening. You actually have to hit the ball to have a chance of it falling in for a hit. If you have not seen him live, like some of us have, you may not be able to truly appreciate how ineffectual he is.
Please understand, I am a Matty fan and was one who thought he deserved a shot at the full-time LF role. He has some work to do with video and TP to determine a plan for sorting himself out.
Should this not occur and if Brandon Jones continues to not be ready, the Braves may be active at the trade deadline for an Adam Dunn type. I hope it does not come to that, but the matter is entirely up to Diaz to get it together.
now playing Masterplan by Plasmatics, Wendy O. Williams
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
Any report on how hard Smoltz was throwing, DOB?
By Andy
May 24, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
I wonder if Chipper would have hit .417 with Andruw behind him?
By JC FROM UT
May 24, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
DOB: Are you hearing anything about any other team showing interest in Pena? Or do you think teams will just wait until he is placed on waivers? Hopefully FW can get at least an A or AA pitcher for him. You never know what that arm could turn into
By TNRON
May 24, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
DOB.That is correct on the infield hit,Ka’Aihue was spectating and thought Smoltz would tag the runner.Should have been an easy out.He looked ok warming up as I was right just up from the bullpen mound.he didnt appear to grimace or anything though he made that shrug with his shoulder a couple of times.He had one or two pitches register 90 on the inhouse gun which is a little slow.It was a great turnoiut for the Bearded Icon,a Smokies Park record crowd of 7381,most cheering fanatically when John made his appearance.Hopefully there were no setbacks.
By Josh C
May 24, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
Evening denizens. Don’t know if anyone already mentioned this, but line of the week goes to Dan Patrick in SI:
“The other day Pamela Anderson threw out the first pitch at the Dodgers game. Andruw Jones was caught looking.”
Good stuff.
By David O'Brien
May 24, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
Smoltz pitched one inning, was charged with one hit on a comebacker to the mound (no one covered first base) and had a groundout and two flyouts.
Most importantly, Smoltz told a team official he felt good after throwing eight strikes in 12 pitches. His rehab assignment could be as brief as one game, if Smoltz decides he’s comfortable with his new “three-quarters” delivery.
We’ll see tomorrow what he says and what they decide.
By A-ville Ranger
May 24, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
I checked the defensive stats of the top 20 rated shortstops in baseball and only one Erick Aybar of the Angels has more total chances per inning played than Escobar .596 to Yunel’s .586.Third is Orlando Cabrera of the Chi Sox.Cabrera is #1 overall because he had 1 error coming into today,Escobar had 4.I know our pitchers are tops at inducing grounders,even so for Yunel to get to that many balls and have so few mistakes given his limited experience is very impressive to me.
By JC FROM UT
May 24, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
Would the Yankees take Pena and either Ring or Resop for Ross Olendorff?
By old gold
May 24, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
After today’s methodical dismanteling of the D’Backs, is it possible (O my gosh, shall I say it?) that the Braves will be a true national league championship contender ?
By old gold
May 24, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
After today’s methodical dismanteling of the D’Backs, is it possible (O my gosh, shall I say it?) that the Braves will be a true national league championship contender ?
By fastasballs
May 24, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this
Great news about Smoltz. Hope he’s back shortly.
The Phillies went down again in Houston so the Braves are all alone in second place. Marlins are in a rain delay still the last time I checked.
Great game today, wasn’t it? Campillo looked great once again as a starter & all season for that matter.
It looks like the Braves are starting to catch some breaks. Earlier in the season that error by Bennett would have probably cost them the game.
You gotta feel good for Frenchy. He smashed that mistake by Qualls. I’m still shocked he threw him anything within 2 feet of the strike zone, but glad he did.
I can’t believe some are so upset about Pena being DFA’d. He swings a decent bat, but that’s about it. Guys like Miller are around for two reasons, they can call a game & play defense. That’s it. If they hit in their one start a week great, if not, oh well.
The Braves just happen to have one of the best hitting catchers in baseball & it spoils everyone. Rarely does a team ever see the offensive production McCann puts out.
Believe me when I say Pena would still be here if the pitchers raved about him behind the plate. We’re not privy to the information shared between the pitchers & coaches. If we were probably nobody would have a problem with Miller over Pena.
If Miller’s contribution all season is to help Campillo win games, that’s a good enough reason for him to be here. They are 2-0 in Miller’s last two starts by the way.
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this
JC FROM UT,
That sounds like an extremely fair trade to me and one that fills needs on both teams. With Posada’s injury, the Yankees could use a young catcher but moreso so versatility off their bench. Even though Resop has better stuff, they have no lefty relievers so the idea of getting Ring to better match-up would be a good idea on their part. And despite his ERA, I really love Ohlendorf’s stuff. He throws hard and throws three or four pitches. I watched a game where he got rocked but he was hitting spots and was down, the guys he was facing just brought their hit sticks.
Good idea, JC. On an internet where people propose Chuck James/Scott Thorman for Jake Peavy-type deals, it’s good to see someone come up with an idea which is fair value and fills needs for both teams(assuming Ohlendorf has options)
By old gold
May 24, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
As a Tech man I hate to say it but Tex has more trade value than player value. Lets call in Boros now,negiotiate under our preference and say ” We want to move him now. Who can you find to fit our budget and perform ?” Better than an end of year deal when Boros says “you will get what I decide to give you. “
By old gold
May 24, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
As a Tech man I hate to say it but Tex has more trade value than player value. Lets call in Boros now,negiotiate under our preference and say ” We want to move him now. Who can you find to fit our budget and perform ?” Better than an end of year deal when Boros says “you will get what I decide to give you. “
By old gold
May 24, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
As a Tech man I hate to say it but Tex has more trade value than player value. Lets call in Boros now,negiotiate under our preference and say ” We want to move him now. Who can you find to fit our budget and perform ?” Better than an end of year deal when Boros says “you will get what I decide to give you. “
By JC FROM UT
May 24, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
Florida brave: Thanks for the comment. I think Olendorf could be sent down to Richmond for the rest of the year and perhaps compete for a spot in the rotation next spring.
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
old gold,
Contending teams don’t trade their clean-up hitters. And agents aren’t the one’s that find players who “fit into our budget and perform.” That’s the general manager’s deal. Tex will play out the year, we’ll offer him arbitration, he’ll decline to accept the salary. Tex will get a long term deal worth over $20 million a year and the Braves will happily take the two picks in the draft.
By fastasballs
May 24, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
Andruw just hit the DL for the first time in his career. That’s the first thing he’s hit in a long time.
I really hope he comes back strong. I hate to see him doing so poorly, but am really glad he’s eating 18 mil & doing poorly with someone other than Atlanta. Kot”Z”say is doing just fine in his place.
By northbeach Scott
May 24, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this
FloridaBrave I think you are right on regarding what will happen with Tex. As much as I like his glove, switch hitting, protecting Chipper, his Aug-Sep 07, and the good numbers he will likely produce by season’s end, just cannot see the Braves paying 20-25% of their payroll to a non-skill position player that takes off April every year.
Many act as if we will get nothing for Tex. The two draft picks are valuable make no mistake and his time in 07 and 08 was likely worth what we paid. Not sure what else “the Homeboy Upstairs” could have done last season considering costs and who was available to give the Braves even a chance at making the playoffs.
So easy for folks to Monday Morning Quarterback. If we had won the WS, there would have been no question.
By keylargo
May 24, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this
Hanley Ramirez is the next A Rod and is under contract for the next 6 years for $70 - less than $12M a year for a superstar. Far more valuable than Tex at about 50% of salary. I know Yunel E. is one hell of a SS and is young. Hanley Ramirez is a better SS, younger, faster(13 SB this year - more than the top 3 Braves combined),and far more power (more than any Brave but CJ with 9).
He also doesn’t have a no trade clause.
I know it’s a reach, but he will hit 20 more HR’s than Escobar. Not 20 HR’s but 20 MORE than Escobar. That gives you some flexibility at 1B with Tex going at years end. It also means not as much will be demanded of the corner outfielders as far as power.
Escobar is Cuban and would be a huge asset to Miami to help draw fans to this failing franchise. I heard he had 200 people on his guest list the last time the Braves were in Miami. And as far as the Marlins are concerned he is about $10M a year cheaper than Ramirez - not a figure a team with a $22M payroll can ignore.
I can not even speculate on what else it would take other than Escobar but I sure would like see it happen.
By chase
May 24, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this
By chase
May 24, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this
Chasetime to give JO JO a break and let GM make all trades. Take the day off and enjoy the game and family. I understand I always talk to myself.
you know it takes a cool person to post as someone else whoever did this is an @ZZ!!!
LEW
I forgot that you are the only one on here allowed to have an opinion and that you are the be all end all God of the blog….
so sorry I forgot that…
My discussion of JOJO mostly stemed from me being attacked yesterday for saying that we still needed another starter and that JOJO wasn’t ready for us to COUNT ON HIM FULL TIME…
And he is not!
At 24 years old and 16 starts..he should be showing more improvement…
My biggest concern with JOJO is that he goes back to the MINORS and does great…then he gets to the MAJORS and is greatly INCONSISTANT and at times looks afraid to throw a strike
He is 24 and has been here a while…when is he going to start to take the next step…
I by no means say give up on him…but he has to start improving
By keylargo
May 24, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
NorthBeachScott Florida Brave
You two are making good sense tonight, so I am going to ask you to take a look at my 11:32 post and let me know what you guys think.
Florida Brave - Do you agree with the impact Escobar could have on the Miami area?
By FloridaBrave
May 24, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
keylargo,
Why would the Marlins trade their franchise player after they just locked him up to a friendly, long term deal as they get ready to play in a new stadium?
Even if so, why would the Braves trade Escobar? He hits for the same average as Ramirez, plays much better defense, and comes “$10 million cheaper.” You know the type of ball player(s) we spend that $10 mil on.
I can understand people wanting to trade Matt Diaz, Chuck James, etc. But Yunel Escobar?!
By Johnny B
May 24, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
Greetings All!
A quick question for DOB… I’m assuming minor league rosters are “set” along the lines of the major rosters, meaning to move a guy up or down a spot has to be cleared. How does that work when a player goes for a rehab assignment? Is there an exception for that or is one of the players on the minor roster designated not to play that game?….just curious.
By northbeach Scott
May 24, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
keylargo Interesting idea about Hanley as alternative to resigning Tex. I think my concern with him is that I do not think he will be playing SS much longer. If I am not mistaken, he is not a great fielding SS, and there has been talk of moving him to either CF or 3B.
Alternatively, I do think we will see Yunel continue to blossom and likely see some more power (i.e. 15-20 HR, not 25-35 like Ramirez).
Also, Ramirez seems to struggle when he bats 2 or 3 hole and is more comfortable as leadoff. In order for him to be truly seen as a middle of the order hitter he would need to get over this.
It is rather remarkable how many good SS are in the National League, especially NL East (Escobar, Rollins, giggling schoolgirl-Reyes, and Ramirez).
By keylargo
May 24, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
FloridaBrave
I’ll tell you why they would trade Ramirez. Because they can get a comparable SS for $10M a year less and prospect(s) they can afford for several years. You live down here and know that a Cuban SS would immediately be King of Miami. Ramirez is a Dominican and that is not the same to the Cuban community.
Yunel is a good working on great SS Hanley Ramirez is one of the top 5 players in baseball.
By northbeach Scott
May 24, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this
Former Brave DeWayne Wise has been recalled by the ChiSox for yet another opportunity. At 30+ surprised he is still in baseball. Classic AAAA player, but aparently a good guy.
Also sometime Brave killer, LH SP Matt Chico was optioned to AAA by the Nats. It would be nice if we could face a RH next Nat series in his place.
By A-ville Ranger
May 25, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this
No way would I trade Yunel unless it was for a young front of the order pitcher (then just maybe).Ramirez is a big time talent but so is Escobar.
By Kev
May 25, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this
Johnny B
The minor leagues have an exception when a Major League player goes down there to Rehab..its called Major League Rehab..they put it like that on their Roster..they will say: X Active Players, X disabled list players and in this week i saw on an article of Rafael Soriano and Smoltz on the M-Braves page, 2 Major League Rehabs..
By keylargo
May 25, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
I compared Ramirez’s stats to those of R. Furcal, J. Reyes, D. Jeter, A Rodriguez. The only stat that Ramirez did not dominate was OPS with Furcal being the clear winner there.
I have to admit that his BA has fallen about 40 points since he signed the contract.
One last thought about why the Marlins would trade him? Because they would not agree to the contract with a no trade clause.
By FloridaBrave
May 25, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this
keylargo,
With your logic-which is the same as mine- the question is why would the Braves do that? The Marlins get a comparable SS for $10 mil less and the Braves get more pop and speed, but less defense for $10 million.
I agree, Escobar would be a great sell, but the Marlins also believe that Ramirez is as well and could be the face of the team as it tries to sell tickets in it’s new stadium.
i don’t think it’s a bad thought, I just don’t think it’s realistic.The Marlins plan on keeping Ramirez as evidenced by his long-term deal. And we didn’t even bring up the fact that trades within the division-especially of this magnitude- are extremely rare.
But if you want to compromise, maybe the Marlins and Braves work out a trade for fellow Cuban Brayan Pena. Pena for Cody Ross?
By KC
May 25, 2008 12:40 AM | Link to this
Eric the Elder: I don’t doubt it at all.
I don’t see the advantage in continuing to allow umpires to alter games or entire seasons with missed calls, just because that’s the way it’s always been done.
I don’t recommend replay on every single play, so I guess I’m not recommending that we entirely remove the opportunity for umpire error…
However, between video replay and Questech, we can at least ensure the accuracy of all ball/strike calls, homerun calls, and plays at the plate.
By Johnny B
May 25, 2008 12:51 AM | Link to this
Thanks Kev!
By Quack Quack
May 25, 2008 12:52 AM | Link to this
Fantastic stuff yet again- great minds think alike. If I had know you were posting that, I would have saved my long winded post.
FloridaBrave & BobbysCox
Geeze guys why dontcha just get a room and get it over with. Great minds? Hah!
By Lew
May 25, 2008 1:08 AM | Link to this
Chase-No one has agreed with you. If you’re going to post idiocy on the blog, people will tell you-count on it. Go through all the posts responding to your JoJo comments today and see just how many agreed with you. It certainly isn’t only me that doesn’t.
You make bombastic, blanket statements that have absolutely no basis in logic or reality. You don’t use anything resembling facts-you go strictly on personal opinion with nothing whatsoever to back up your assertions. Then you get all upset when someone tells you you have no inkling what you’re talking about. Use some sense before you post and you might see people respond differently.
Believe me-calling me disagreeable or worse won’t help your problem. All I do is respond to your nonsense.
By northbeach Scott
May 25, 2008 1:31 AM | Link to this
Lew Well said. Thank you for being a voice of reason.
Not sure anyone made any comments about Gregor Blanco’s triple off of LHP Randy Johnson in today’s game, but that was a fine piece of hitting for a young left handed batter.
He continues to impress in terms of consistent quality fielding at all three outfield positions and has a good mature approach at the plate. He does not seem to get nervous with an 0-2 count and has worked several walks or hits by getting the count back in his favor.
I was sold on Josh Anderson in ST, but Blanco has really done well. At some point it will be interesting to see Blanco in the leadoff role.
By David O'Brien
May 25, 2008 1:33 AM | Link to this
JC from Utah, Yankees had no interest in Pena a while back when I asked (last month), and that was when the Yankees needed a healthy catcher….
Old Gold: That’s not even close to how it works. Agents don’t help facilitate trades, especially not trades of players who don’t have no-trade clauses. And someone else said it tonight, and I’ve said it many times, but it warrants repeating for those still not quite clear on this: Teams DO NOT trade healthy cleanup hitters in the middle of a playoff race. Not unless you’re getting an equal of better hitter in return who you can plug right into the spot and help the team reach the playoffs. And that doesn’t happen….
Trade Hanley Ramirez? Please. Use logic. They just signed him as the face of their franchise for years to come as they move into a new ballpark. They don’t then trade him because he had a bad couple of weeks after the deal was signed. That’s just ridiculous….
Oh, and the Braves will be quite happy paying a budding star shortstop less over the next four years combined than Hanley will average per season in his contract….
One other thing: I covered the Marlins when they had Livan Hernandez and Miami native Alex Fernandez (also of Cuban ancestry) in their starting rotation n their starting rotation. The team studied the average crowd size for games with each of its starting pitchers.
Guess what? The average crowds when those two pitched weren’t even the highest among the starters. There was ZERO impact at the gate, and both of them were bonafide heroes in the Cuban community down there.
By gotigers72
May 25, 2008 1:51 AM | Link to this
FloridaBrave;
Thanks for answering my questions to my 8:15 post. Excellent answers every one. I DID NOT know that Moises Alou whizzed on his hands. Guess that is his alternative to wearing batting gloves. Seems like there would be some kind of sticky substance on the market that would do the same job without the urine smell being around. Bet his teammates are a little skittish about giving high fives when he hits homers, etc. Maybe someone could market it and call it something like “Big League Whiz”, guarenteed to get you to the majors or your money back. That’s one reason I’ve always been hesitant to eat Cheese Whiz.
About Matt Diaz. There is a leftfielder at Richmond named something like Jason Perry that has 11 homers and 37 RBIs, and a decent average also. May be leading the league, or at least close to that status, in homers and RBIs. Don’t know how he plays defense. The only problem: He bats lefthanded.
By CARTZ
May 25, 2008 2:14 AM | Link to this
DOB, kudos on the bright eyes. i love his more soul/folky stuff, and ‘i’m wide awake, it’s morning’ has to be my favorite album.
cassadaga is also very, very good.
By gotigers72
May 25, 2008 2:15 AM | Link to this
Regarding my 1:51 post about Jason Perry. Sorry, my bad. He plays for Mississippi, not Richmond. He is second in homers with 11 and third in RBIs with 37. His batting average is .311. He also strikes out a lot, but so do a lot of power hitters.
By hypersmoltzaholic
May 25, 2008 3:33 AM | Link to this
I cannot wait to hear what John Smoltz has to say next.
I’m gonna stay up all night watching this blog just in case there’s an update.
I don’t care if it’s only a remark about the weather. Or his golf score. Gotta hear it!!!
By JSmoltz
May 25, 2008 4:26 AM | Link to this
My golf game is really going well, especially during days with beautiful warm weather. My three quarter arm delivery is coming along just fine too. Thanks for the interest. Now you can go to bed and get some sleep so you can watch the Braves game later today. G’night.
By eddie
May 25, 2008 6:58 AM | Link to this
Did I miss it or was Chipper NOT in the big celebration at home plate for Frenchy. I replayed it a couple of times and didn’t see him (although he may have been in the middle and not discernible).
By prattvillenolzfan
May 25, 2008 7:46 AM | Link to this
I doubt Chipper was in the celebration because of fear he would get hurt..As fragile as his ankles/legs are, it would be easy to hurt them in the celebration…
One thing about today’s game…
Last year, Micah Owings had his breakout game against the Braves here at Turner field….2 hr’s etc… The Braves took offense at his last home run, thought he was showing up the Braves…If I remember right, there were alot of PO’d Braves after the game. I remember one comment (can’t remember who) that basically said the Braves won’t forget that the next time they play….
Well, this is the next time they play…..Glavine was not here obviously, BUT he has always gone by THE CODE that baseball players have….Heck, he even hit Dale Murphy (in Atlanta no less) when Murphy was with the Phillies….
Not saying it will happpen….But you never know…..
By Random
May 25, 2008 7:55 AM | Link to this
Just heard that Gary Carter is campaigning for Willie randolph’s position.
By Random
May 25, 2008 8:15 AM | Link to this
prattvillenolzfan: “The Braves took offense at his last home run, thought he was showing up the Braves”
How can anyone “show up” a team by deliberately hitting a home run, let alone a pitcher?
C’mon — get real.
By ncgary
May 25, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this
anyone watched jesse litsch pitch yet for toronto? he and reyes are similar careers , they have all 5 right handed starters and in the east they might be interested in either cj or jo jo. he has 4.25/1 ko to bb this year, about .65 per inning, havent watched him but stats appear to bear out same type pitcher as jjj, pitching more to contact, being 23 they probably dont part with litsch , but marcum 27 and mcgowan 26 are both proven innings eaters
they also have halladay and burnett 2 31 yr olds with larger contracts, all 5 are right handers though, just saying litsch is probably the coup , but marcum is probably hardest thrower,
doesnt look like they have much left handed starters in the pipeline either, just saying they are righty loaded , maybe cj could be peddled along with lil bridge if is hitting is toooo light for his glove maybe just cj alone would get it , depending on how bad they are lookin for leftys, isnt toronto a pretty spacious park
maybe a dh like kanizarez spelling? thrown in gets the pitcher that takes the braves over the top, if they have no confidence in his defense getting better maybe toronto willing to take a chance with a jo jo for litch straight up maybe throw a lil bridge or b jones or kanizarez and a combo of jo jo and 1 of these gets it done for marcum , probably closest thing to halladay without the exhorbitant contract
and maybe we dont need that 1 more good arm, but relying on what we have probably doesnt get us in unless they all step up like they have this homestand, continues all season long
i dont know that toronto isnt satisfied with 5 righties , its working pretty fgood for them now, but we have some young leftys if 1 would get a more established righty wouldnt it be worth it, even if we had to throw in 1 other triple a position player, for marcum , probably 2 but any one of torontos starting 5 would complement our staff well in my opine
By BX
May 25, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this
I think it was talked about at the end of last season, but haven’t heard anything about it since.
Any chance that when Soriano, Gonzo, and Smoltz replenish the bullpen that Acosta gets sent down to stretch out his arm and maybe get a shot at starting later this season?
By prattvillenolzfan
May 25, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this
How can anyone “show up” a team by deliberately hitting a home run, let alone a pitcher?
Hey Random, thanks for correcting me, you must be an English teacher….
I didn’t word it right…..
It has nothing to do with “hitting” the homerun….
It has to do with how you act AFTER you hit the homerun….
Evidently the Braves felt that Owings celebrated a little too excessively while running the bases…
I know if I had 6/7 RBI’s, 2 homeruns, ALL in front of my hometown team/family I would be excited…
If the Braves didn’t respond against the Mets, then they won’t probably won’t respond against Owings….
All I’m doing is throwing it out there….
By ncgary
May 25, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this
maybe lyrics for queens bycycle are appropriate after the memorial day annual jack up of prices
By ghbrave
May 25, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this
After attending last night’s Miss.Braves/Tenn. Smokies game, I have was even more impressed with John Smoltz than before (which I didn’t think was possible). I am not talking about his performance during the game but what he did before the game. Smoltz came out of the dugout and signed autographs for the Tenn. Smokies record crowd for over 45 minutes. How many other superstars in any sport would do that without some type of additional compensation? During his appearance in the game, Smoltz gave up only one infield hit as he fielded a high chopper between the mound and 1st base that most pitchers wouldn’t have gotten to. After fielding and looking to toss to first, Smoltz found the 1stbaseman too far from the bag. The next batter hit a 385 ft fly ball to dead center. That was the only hard hit ball of the inning. As Smoltz left the mound, the crowd game him a standing ovation to which he tipped his cap on the way to the dugout. My 13 year old daughter asked why everyone was cheering for a player on the “other” team and I tried to explain to her that the crowd appeciated the opportunity to see a class act and future Hall of Famer in person. I have been a Braves fan for 39 years and I have the same respect for John Smoltz that I do for Henry Aaron and Dale Murphy. True Class.
By FloridaBrave
May 25, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this
gotigers,
Jason Perry’s actually in Mississippi. Yeah, he’s playing well, but like you mentioned, we need right-handed pop.
BTW, I like the match-up today for the Braves, assuming Tommy’s on. The D-Backs can hit anybody’s fastball but with their young hitters, I think their susceptible to guys who can change speeds as well as Glavine(or Campillo).
By chase
May 25, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this
LEW
You argue for the sake of arguing and you don’t only do it with me…
I made no “blanket statements”
You have yet to site exactly what in the hell your problem is with my post.
Oh and LEW…I went back through the ENTIRE blog…You said that nobody on here agrees with me about my post/JoJo You sir, are WRONG
Here is just a little sampling of those who agreed with what I said and/or said pretty much the same thing theirselves..
By Yars May 24, 2008 8:36 By Yars
By TURTSNAP May 23, 2008 7:51 PM
By MAV May 23, 2008 7:54 PM
By StingerSplash May 23, 2008 7:57 PM
By Shamus Thacker May 23, 2008 8:02 PM
By midtownBrave May 23, 2008 8:03 PM
By geauxbraves2000 May 23, 2008 8:10 PM
By Robin May 23, 2008 8:40 PM
By CC Rider May 23, 2008 10:30 PM
By Andy May 23, 2008 11:07 PM
Lew…that is just a few people who either agreed with me or said virtually the exact same thing…maybe YOU should quit making blanket statements that include everyone and ADMIT that you just want to argue and attack everything I say for NO REASON…
Now go back and have a look at those posts
By prattvillenolzfan
May 25, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this
Chase…..
Did you wake up on the wrong side of the bed this morning……
As Robin Williams said in Good Morning Vietnam…..
You are in more dire need of a Bl* Job Than any white man in History*
By David O'Brien
May 25, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this
ghbrave, outstanding post (9:13 a.m.) from someone who attended the game. You painted a picture for everybody, my man.
By chase
May 25, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this
prattvillenolzfan
I woke up in a great mood then I came on here and saw a bunch of rude attacking comments that LEW left overnight (when I wasn’t here to defend myself)
It gets old when one guy wants to constantly attack and ridicule you for everything you say/write even when 15 people before you said the same thing!
By Lew
May 25, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
Chase-Your And Idiot. That’s a blanket statement that few will disagree with. Would you like for ME to go back through the posts and point out those who disagree with you? Well, ain’t going to happen, because after this post, I won’t say another thing to you today. You are rarely worth the effort required in any attempt to educate you.
BTW-CC Sabathia has started ten games this year. He has given up 35 ER in 61 IP (in his last nine, JoJo has given up 18ER in 46 IP-better than Sabathia). Maybe he needs to improve a bit quicker or you’ll start advocating that HE has no future in MLB. Let me know how CC does on the Free Agent Market this offseason.
Numerous people here pointed out to you that Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz and numerous other pitchers had much worse rookie and early records than JoJo does, but apparently this is insignificant to you. It was also said no one expected JoJO to be a 300 game winner, but nonetheless, it has been seen time and again that young pitchers are notoriously either slow starters or wildly inconsistent. You can’t tell (well, maybe no one but you can tell) in advance if they will overcome it, but many do. Happens all the time.
There is a quote from a manager or pitching coach (Maybe DOB or another Denizen will remember who said it) to the effect that a pitcher has little idea what he’s doing until after 50 ML starts (that’s MORE than 16-you do realize?)
I’m glad you know so much more than the Braves’ coaching staff and minor league development system knows about JoJo and other young pitchers. Maybe you also think that Hanson will never be more than a low rotation pitcher, too? How about Rohrbough? Any early predictions, there?
Yes, I can be argumentative, but usually not with those who have a clue what they are talking about-never just for the sake of argument. I also back up what I’m saying with a modicum of logic and rarely do so without doing some research first. Don’t you wish you could say the same? How many have argued with you this week? I got news for you Dude, it’s been plenty-you yourself said as much when you responded to me yesterday. Guess what? I didn’t respond to you all week last week, except for two posts yesterday, one of which responded to comments you made to me. I guess it isn’t all me now, is it? Why don’t you go inventory it you moron?
By David O'Brien
May 25, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this
Chase: give it a rest. Go enjoy the holiday or something if that’s all you and Lew have. I think we’re all sick of hearing it.
I know I am.
We’re here to discuss the Braves. (Or music, BBQ, etc. By the way, I envy those of you who have time to enjoy the beautiful weather with some outdoor BBQ today and tomorrow, but hey, ballpark on a sunny day ain’t a bad place to be, either.)
Couple good shows tonight in Atlanta, Francine Reed at Smith’s and Clinic at The Earl….
By Deep Throat
May 25, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this
DOB said he doubted Acosta would get demoted although I think he could use a little more seasoning in the minors.
Acosta has spent eight seasons in the minors. Dude is seasoned out.
By ghbrave
May 25, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
DOB, I appreciate the kind words. It means alot coming from someone that is the best at providing the most Braves info I can find anywhere. For me and the countless others that starve for everything Braves……….Thanks!
By David-ATL14
May 25, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
* Attention DOB*
A musical tip, if you don’t already have it.
John Hiatt’s new one titledSame Old Man
Outstanding work as usual.
Luther Dickinson of the North Mississippi All Stars adds some first rate guitar work and Hiatt’s daughter Lilly also lends a added bonus with her work.
Really great work by Hiatt, one of my personal favorites.
By Lew
May 25, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this
DOB-Music it is. Not too sure if this is something that you yourself would enjoy, but I’m sure some of the Hard Rockers would. I picked up a three disc retrospective of Tommy Bolin the other day.
Bolin played with such 70’s stalwarts as Zephyr (for all you Colorado fans), James Gang, Billy Cobham and Deep Purple. This compilation doesn’t really go into the more commercial bands he played with, but concentrates on demos, solo albums and live performances that are extremely rare (including a show at Ebbetts Field-thought it had been long gone). I’ve rarely heard ANY of these cuts before. The introduction is by Steve Vai, who was influenced by Bolin.
The source material was recorded from some terrible sources-bad analog recordings done on less than professional equipment at someone’s home, yet it was engineered with such devotion and care that the recordings are some of the clearest, most separated tracks I’ve heard-they could have been recorded digitally, the quality is so good. This is a real nice collection for those of us still living the music from 35 years ago.
By Braveheart
May 25, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this
I don’t fear Smoltz, Soriano, Gonazlez ruining the chemistry of this pen. I think the three of them will be getting injected at just the right time. Alot of these guys have been overused to good effect. Bobby’s bullpen philosophy has always been use ‘em up, wear ‘em out, make ‘em do or do without. Bobby has been able to be even more aggressive with that philosophy early in this season because he has known he’s got reinforcements coming along. The pen can’t go on the whole season the way they are being used. Gonzo, Smoltz and Soriano will be coming along at just the right time to prevent the meltdown that occurred with the pen from late June until Mahay, Acosta, Dotel and Ascanio were injected late last summer.
Smoltz, Soriano, Gonzalez, Boyer, Bennett, Acosta, Ohman
Hudson, Jurrjens, Glavine and one big time top of the rotation guy purchased in July
McCann, Tex, KJ, Yunel, Chipper, Kotsay, Frenchy
Diaz, Blanco, Infante, Gotay, Norton
That pen, rotation, offense and bench will stand toe to toe for 7 games with the Bosox in October
By Travisimo
May 25, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
How good is Chipper Jones? He could go 0 for his next 266 and still be hitting higher than Andruw Jones.
By keylargo
May 25, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
FloridaBrave
Regarding your suggestion of trading the Cuban B. Pena for Cody Ross of the Marlins, that would be a SUPER trade for the Braves. Just going form memory, I can remember him not only hurting the Braves hitting but I remember a couple of outfield assists. The Marlins would love to have Pena from a PR standpoint but I’m not sure they would be getting a comparible player. In short if the Marlins would do it the Braves should send a few maple bats along as well.
By i cant take it anymore
May 25, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this
ghbrave…thanks for that post, man. i wish i could have gone.
By N8
May 25, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this
DOB
“I envy those of you who have time to enjoy the beautiful weather with some outdoor BBQ today and tomorrow, but hey, ballpark on a sunny day ain’t a bad place to be, either.”
Just be happy it’s a SUNNY day at the ballpark. In my neck of the woods, it’s been raining for 2 days, and windy too.
Braveheart
“Bobby has been able to be even more aggressive with that philosophy early in this season because he has known he’s got reinforcements coming along. The pen can’t go on the whole season the way they are being used. Gonzo, Smoltz and Soriano will be coming along at just the right time to prevent the meltdown that occurred with the pen from late June until Mahay, Acosta, Dotel and Ascanio were injected late last summer.”
Well said. I was thinking the same thing. So far, on all accounts (regarding the “big 3” in the pen), it appears that it’s all system go, with them. Which is great. Let’s hope they hold up.
But as you’ve stated (in a roundabout way), even if we only get a month or two out Smoltz, Soriano and Gonzo, give or take some setbacks, in a worst case scenario, the guys that are doing well in the pen right now, will get some needed relief, if you will. Thus keeping them a little more fresh than they normally would be.
My biggest concern for now, is Campillo’s blister. Bobby made a comment about if he had gone another inning he might have been out “a few weeks”. Which tells me the blisters are pretty bad, and even if he makes his next start (as Bobby thinks he will), you have to worry about them re-occurring every time he takes the mound. Which stinks, he appears to be on a roll.
DOB
Correct me if I’m wrong, but regardless of age, with only 15 or so Big League innings, is Campillo STILL considered a rookie?
As dominating as JJJ has been, hard to argue that a guy with an 0.83 ERA doesn’t belong in the ROY the year “mix” if he keeps that up.
By eric the elder
May 25, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this
braveheart on a side note, do you know what became of our old friend, Bob Jounalist?
I might be wrong, but I think I recall Carolina Lady setting up her own blog, and maybe Bob went there?
By old gold
May 25, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this
Dave: Thanks for the article and your comments along this string of posts. The current sense of excitment among these fans is super and has not been matched in quite some time. Again, Cox has done a superb job. With the pitchers returning I think the Braves are about to become really nasty. Its always great for any team to speculate what might be if we were to pick up a front line starter but I don’t see it happening without giving up one arm and two legs.
By Joe Fan
May 25, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this
When Glavine won his 300th I heard alot of talk about him being the last to do that for a long time. But if you ask me, it sure looked the other night like Randy Jonson can win 12 more before he is done. What say yall?
By Joe Fan
May 25, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this
When Glavine won his 300th I heard alot of talk about him being the last to do that for a long time. But if you ask me, it sure looked the other night like Randy Jonson can win 12 more before he is done. What say yall?
By David O'Brien
May 25, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this
Randy Johnson will, in my opinion, definitely win 300. People, including me, doubted he would a year ago because his back seemed like it was going to prevent it. No one could’ve predicted he’d come back from a couple of back surgeries this well.
By David O'Brien
May 25, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
David-ATL14, agreed on the HIatt disc. I love it. Got it a month ago before the Florida trip; my man at Ella Guru gave me an advance copy. It’s got a few songs on it that are classic Hiatt.
Speaking of, for those who never got the Ryan Bingham CD Mescalito, I’ll again give it highest recommendations. Like a combo of Steve Earle from earlier in Earle’s career, with a lot of Hank III sprinkled on top. Great stuff.
Wouldn’t call it country, but if it is country, it’s right there behind Yoakam’s Buck Owens covers album as best country CDs of past couple years.
By EMan
May 25, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this
“Now pitchers take [Diaz] seriously and pitch him like a great hitter.”
So for two years, pitchers just lobbed it over the plate for Diaz. The fact is, Diaz is a slow starter who has hit righty’s and lefty’s very well over the last two years. He was never really given his shot as full time starter (now if he had as many ABs as our RF, I’d say fair enough). He sits around on the bench for a week and then gets to start against J Santana and R Johnson.
By KC
May 25, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this
Ya know… when I hear that Brandon Webb is pitching for the D-Backs tomorrow, my initial reaction is to think “uh oh… we’d better get em’ today!”.
But then I glance at the stats leader board, and see Jurrjens at #5 in the ERA category (ahead of Webb) with a 2.64 ERA.
Providing further encouragement for tomorrow’s contest, is the fact that Jurrjens is 4-0 with a 1.48 ERA at Turner Field this year.
Hey, Jurrjens could very well have his worst outing of the year tomorrow… or maybe he pitches well but is out-pitched by Webb. But the fact remains that we have at least as good a chance of winning tomorrow with Jurrjens on the mound as the D-Backs do with Webb on the mound.
That’s saying something, isn’t it?
DAMN, what a trade (Renteria for Jurrjens/G.Hernandez) this has turned out to be so far.
It’s still too early to attach titles like “top-of-rotation” or “#1” starter to Jurrjen’s name.
But we can certainly say that - to this point - he has been a #1 starter… and it shouldn’t surprise anyone if he does establish himself as a top-of-rotation starter here for years to come.
I think it’s also safe to say that, as good as Renteria is, the Tiger’s brass would like to travel back in time to the day before they signed the papers for this deal.
By Lew
May 25, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
Randy Johnson sure looked done last year-no doubt. The way he pitched the other night indicates otherwise.
Question is this- The Guy is 45 years old and coming off of surgery. Can he win those 12 this year or will he need part of 09 as well? What is the oldest pitcher to A.win 12 games and B. Win 300 games?
By MBPelican
May 25, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this
IF the Diaz Blanco platoon doesn’t work, anyone think we would go after Coco Crisp? OR just stick with the platoon and see if it “wakes” up so to speak. I know that Blanco OBP is over 400 so he’s doing a great job getting on base, but Diaz isn’t looking 100%.
By McFann
May 25, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this
AAAAA!! Where’s Chipper???
By Tomas
May 25, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
The Braves will have such a tremendous bulpen. Smoltz, Soriano, Gonzales, Boyer, and Acosta, all of them capable of closing games. And Ohlman, and Bennet who have been very good.
Ring and Resop will probably go on waivers, thats the bad thing about having this amazing bulpen.
By Will
May 25, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this
Happy to see another great homestand for the Braves! Only thing i say is it too much to ask for the Braves to put together some success on the road before we crown them. Have to prove they can win games on the road and 1 run games before i will get excited.
By chase
May 25, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
DOB
Why single me out brother?
Lew attacked me when all I said was that at this point we couldn’t count on JOJO to consistant and that we needed another starter….
I never said get rid of him or that he’d never be any good…
I am tired of being singled out and attacked when a heard of others post the same thing!
By woogidy
May 25, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB, Why’s Chipper out today?
By northbeach Scott
May 25, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this
BX Like the idea about potentially stretching out Acosta at AAA into a starting candidate, when the Big R3 are healthy and back on the 25 man. Recall that it was discussed that Acosta (and Soriano and Boyer for that matter) had such good stuff that their destinies appear to be either closer or starter.
It is great to have the situation where we have to choose among which stud we put into what role, is it not? Thank you Braves Leadership.
Looking forward to Glavine bringing his finess to challenge the aggessive young D-Back hitters, today. It will be good to have Heap, KJ and Kotsay back in the line up and Diaz on the bench.
By northbeach Scott
May 25, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this
chase (the original douchebag) Your.and.Idiot. Please just shut the F—-Up no one is interested in what you are selling.
Henceforth your posts will be ignored by me.
By the Stranger
May 25, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
DOB, I got Mescalito on your recommendation and I’ve got nothing but good to say about it. I think Hayes Carll, Trouble in Mind, is a solid #3 on that list. Smart lyrics, classic country twang. Would’ve never found it anywhere but here. Thanks again, dude.
By Murphy
May 25, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this
What is with this stretching out Acosta deal? He isnt Joba! He was a closer in the minors I thought…why would we stretch him out now?
By David O'Brien
May 25, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
Just got back upstairs, but you’ve probably heard CHIPPER OUT OF LINEUP with back spasms.
Talked to him a while, feels a lot better than he did last night and this morning (he got here at 8:30 a.m.), but still has an isolated spot of pain in his lower back.
Last night his back locked up on him when he was playing around with his kids.
Said he’ll keep getting treatment during game and could be available to pinch-hit, possibly. Otherwise, he’ll try to play tomorrow.
Infante at third batting eighth, Kelly batting third.
Oh, and Smoltz didn’t come out to talk, but through PR guy told us he’s under the weather (sick) but otherwise fine. Will throw a side session tomorrow. Bobby said Smoltz had “normal” shoulder stiffness this morning.
Soriano LIKELY TO BE ACTIVATED TOMORROW.
By JC from UT
May 25, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
It is not good when Chipper is not in hte lineup, but it seems he his leaning on the side of caution so he only misses a game here and there rather than 15-20 games at a time. Rather him take a day off than 2 weeks
By McFann
May 25, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this
Dang! Hope Chipper’s back tomorrow!
Smoltz under the weather, huh? Ugh…me, too. IT’s the whole throat thing…And my sister had it last week…
Good news on Soriano!
By JC from UT
May 25, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this
Good choice, KJ hitting third. Francoeur just doesn’t cut it in the 3 hole.
By chase
May 25, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this
McFann
Quit kissing your sister and you won’t get sick
By eric the elder
May 25, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
Kelly needs to hit as if he were still in the 7 hole. If he tries to be Chipper, he could have a long day.
By Murphy
May 25, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this
*By chase
May 25, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this
McFann
Quit kissing your sister and you won’t get sick* You are not doing a lot to help your reputation are you dude?
By David O'Brien
May 25, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
Strange, agreed on Hayes Carll, too. Great “alt-country” album, like Mescalito is ‘alt-country.” Too bad that’s not the kind of country that’s played on the radio these days (which is pretty much across-the-board unlistenable, unless you’re talking the outlaw country and old-school country stations on satellite radio).
By jbutler
May 25, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
gbrave What a great opportunity to see Smoltz in a small setting; I love the minor league parks. You brought up a great point about him just being classy; A few years back (maybe 2) Clemens was on his never-ending “retirement” tour and was making minor league starts prepping to hit the big leagues in July..or some ridiculously late month in the year. He was pitching with Matthew McConaghy (sp?) and Lance Armstrong directly in line of the cameras - and then showed after the game him signing autographs for everyone on both teams- but no fans. The TV announcer said he wanted it done on the field so everyone could see how “charitable” he was being. Gag. Complete contrast..
By Bo
May 25, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
Chase, how old are you? You are acting like my 7 year old. Give it a break, please. Go watch the game!
By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)
May 25, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
Chase
uh — dude— McFann is a girl. FYI
Friend don’t let friends BLOG drunk !!!!
By fastasballs
May 25, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
Man it’s going to be a long day for Glavine & the Braves if this tight strike zone keeps up. They should have been out of the inning with only 1 run.
By Mike
May 25, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this
The offense has mustered 2 runs off their starters in the past 2 games. Can the offense wake back up and knock Owings out of the game. He acted cocky last time we faced him here at home and we need to put him in his place. Thank you Glavine for striking him out.
By Bravesfan79
May 25, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
Im still worried about the fallout on Escobar because of letting Pena go.
Someone unhappy like that is bound to make more mental mistakes, like swinging at bad pitches he dosent usually swing at (saturdays game), or bad baserunning (todays first inning)
Ill say it again…. the combo of Penas bat off the bench, and Escobars happiness and focus……WAY Overrides ANYTHING that Corkys .100 average and once a week “defensive speciality” gives us!
Now i still think Escobar will be a great player for us, but now who translates for him in the dugout? Who can he now talk to when he makes a error or is in a slump?
This makes no sense that we now have a backup cather who hits worse than most AL pitchers! We should of just kept Javy like i wanted!! I mean Javy could of easily gave us a .200 average and 10-15 homeruns. Which is more than double than well get from Corky!
By N8
May 25, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Not sure Glavine is gonna do himself any good, by getting in the umpires face in the 2nd inning.
From my angle, not many (if any) of those pitches in the first inning (if that’s what he was complaining about), were bad calls.
By Mike
May 25, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this