Braves

By N8

May 25, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

3rd?

By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)

May 25, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

FFFIIIRRRRSSSTTTT!!!!

By McFann

May 25, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Chief!

Hey, McCann’s hitting streak is now at 12 games!!

Thanks for takin’ care of chase, y’all. First? (Sorry)

By kirknga

May 25, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

According to the Braves announcers some were correct here when they wondered if Escobar had been impacted by the release of Pena. Joe Simpson said that he couldn’t talk about it yet.

Don’t think he would intentionally hurt the team though.

By prattvillenolzfan

May 25, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

Chase

Before we start this blog…..

PLEASE Don’t embarrass yourself today……

By LA Braves Fan

May 25, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

DOB - simply put, you write the best blog on AJC.com, err you write the best blog ever!

Even though I rarely post, I read it every day and always enjoy the humor, music and rediculous stats!

DOB- best guess, Smoltz pitch on the upcoming roadie?

Go Braves! (being from ATL, but now living in New Orleans, can I tell you how much I HATE TBS doing games from around MLB. And Ron Darling is a JOKE as a color man)

By Dylan

May 25, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

Great song…can’t go wrong with Bruce

By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)

May 25, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

Yo DOB

Does getting this much butt-kissing cut down on your need for toilet paper??

By Spider29

May 25, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

DOB, what’s going on with Bryan Pena? Joe and Sciambi were talking about how not having Pena there anymore was affecting Yunel. They didn’t elaborate but their words made it sound like there was more to Pena not being around than just the DL. Thanks for the good work during the season so far!

By SandyB

May 25, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

some good memories today on ESPN…they showcased Phil Niekro and the knuckler. Brought back a LOT of memories. Good quote from him on how he kept going (while playing for not so good teams): he never let his losses become defeats. A follow up tonight at 7 with some of the ESPN announcers trying to catch the knuckleball…

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

That play by Upton was spectacularly bad. Just incredibly bad.

By Bravesfan79

May 25, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

Im telling everyone….no way Corkys once a week defensive ability, makes up for his .100 average. And what happens when we need a pinchitter late in a tight game? We might as well use a pitcher to hit!

Letting Pena go was a mistake!
Both from keeping Escobar sharp and focused, to having a decent hitting on the bench when needed.

And DOB you should of mentioned Smoltz name for the all star team as well, when he was a starter this year he was one of the best in all of baseball. And he will be one of the 3 best closers in the game in the 2nd half of the season! Who else would be better to have on the mound than Smoltz to close out the All Star game and clinch homefield for the NL in the World Series!?

By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)

May 25, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

YO Spiderman

Have you been in a coma for the last week??

By DAP

May 25, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

the home plate umpiring seems to be a little lopsided today.

thanx for the clean slate, DOB.

By albanian braves fan

May 25, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

is “dewsy” living in rural area, possibly mountains?

then being referred to as “mountain dewsy”. by friends.

By FloridaBrave

May 25, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

Guys, I’m sure Escobar is hurt but he’s going to realize this is a business soon enough. To imply he’d do something to intentionally hurt this team is beyond ridiculous. Escobar’s played on teams that didn’t have Pena before. If he was really Pena’s best friend, he would realize this move is bets for Pena’s career.

By N8

May 25, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

You see. I’m so frickin negative, that I just assumed I could NEVER be first on a new blog.

That sucks.

By Lew

May 25, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

CaveDude-You know many UGA dignitaries and the like. Do you know Perk Robbins? His Daughter and Son in Law are good friends of ours. They are also at UGA in one capacity or another.

By albanian braves fan

May 25, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

obrien writing: big talent added to good chemistry, that’s a nice formula.

is simply ok.

better formula: big mass multiplied by speeding of light. squared.

hint: formulas where multiplying are being more powerful then formulas where adding things. even better is exponentiating!!!

By keylargo

May 25, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

O’Brien

I think he (Upton) has gone to the Ryan Freel School of Really Cool Outfielders. The ball took off and he was just too cool to admit he misjudged it. Just though he could nonchalant it and keep on jogging to the dougout.

By DAP

May 25, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

has anyone claimed pena yet?

By dracula

May 25, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

I am prepared to bid for Brayan Pena.

I offer ten bats!

Blah!

By Daybed Wagmoe

May 25, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

Good game today — Glavine has done very well after that 1st inning and the Braves are hitting well. Home plate ump has really been squeezing Glavine though.

Perhaps others have already commented on this and I just haven’t seen it,but has anyone else noticed that Francoeur has been playing a lot more towards right-center this season? Lately he’s had two very-long running catches at the foul, and there have been quite a few fly-ball doubles that have landed in the corner. DOB — any thoughts on this? Is that just the normal defensive positioning?

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

LA Braves Fan: Yes, I think Smoltz will pitch on the road trip. And Soriano could pitch as soon as tomorrow….

Bravesfan79: Smoltz probably isn’t going to make the All-Star team after spending a month on the DL. And I’m done entertaining your tired point about Yunel vis-a-vis Pena.

Yunel was phenomenal in the field yesterday, one day after Pena was dropped. And he drove in one of the Braves’ three runs yesterday. And started today’s first inning with a single that he tried to turn into a double with hustle.

He’s dealing with the move a lot better than you are. Get over it. It’s not going to be reversed.

By FEAR

May 25, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

uhg!!!!!!!!!!

By Lew

May 25, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

Isn’t that the first Grand Slam Glavine’s given up in his career?

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

Ouch. That’s gonna leave a mark.

Only the second grand slam allowed by Glavine in his major league career. And to Byrnes, no less…

Ohh, Smithers….

By Daybed Wagmoe

May 25, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

It looked like Byrnes stepped on home plate after hitting that grand slam…

By eric the elder

May 25, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

Glavine has been playing with matches the whole game. They just ignited.

By Jeff321

May 25, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

Way to go Bobby Cox! Ya just had to leave Tom Glavine in there to qualify for a win, eh? Tell me, how’s that working out?

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Wow, what a play by Infante at 3B. Dude can play four positions and play them well. Not just serviceable-utility level defense, but solid, strong D.

By FloridaBrave

May 25, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Glavine was playing with fire all day and it finally caught up with him. His numbers have been below average across the board this year…

By prattvillenolzfan

May 25, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

Why was Acosta warming up so early…

This is the 3rd time that Glavine hasn’t gone 5…..If this continues, wonder if he’ll hang it up before the end of the year…..

By McFann

May 25, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

I…cannot…stand…ERIC BYRNES!!!!!

SHEEEEEEEESH!!!

By Gone Viral

May 25, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

The Smokies’ ballpark is in Kodak, Tennessee. I didn’t find out Smoltzie was pitching until I had already purchased Indiana Jones tickets. Otherwise, I would have gone.

I’m a bit surprised Glavine didn’t have a mouthful for the umpire on his way out.

By Mike

May 25, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

Whats up w/ Glav? They should have pulled him. Leave it to BC to leave a guy in there 1 guy too long. Id rather have the win, and Tommy not getting it, than insisting on leaving him in there when he obviously didnt have it today. I am realizing that we need another arm. At least ones that fairly reliable.

Here is my reasoning…

Hudson - good for 7-9 innings

JJ - good for 7-8 innings

Glav - lately good for only 4-5 innings maybe 6

JoJo - the jury is still out on him

Campillo - he has been awesome, but hasnt been streched yet so we dont know what he will be able to give us over the long term.

I just have a bad feeling that our pitching staff that has held together brillantly, will start to falter in some spots, and wont be able to hold up over the long haul.

By Dave

May 25, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

Second Grand Slam for Glav

By Overlord

May 25, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

10 pitches too long an outing.

I understand cox wanted to the the greater amount of inning cause bullpen is not that fresh, but boy, close game against one of the best in the NL….. take tommy out after 90 pitches……he is not gonna give you much more, but he can get in a mess……which he did.

Still not out of it, got to get 1-2 runs back in this same inning.

By Bo

May 25, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

Feel bad for Tommy. Should have been pulled with bases loaded?

Thanks to all our Military Men and women that protect our Country and freedom. God bless the USA we need it. Go Braves!

By Braves530

May 25, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

Game over! had a bad feeling tommy was gonna pay for loading the bases again.

By KC

May 25, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

This REALLY needs to serve as a lesson to Bobby Cox…

With THIS - 42 year-old version - of Tom Glavine… when he starts to lose it, you have to go get him.

Period.

I know they wanted to get him through 5 innings to qualify for the win and all, but you’ve got a focus on getting the “W” in the standings more than putting another “W” on Tommy’s baseball card.

When he’s lost it, he’s lost it. I sincerely hope BC doesn’t let this happen again.

By DAP

May 25, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

daybed i remember hearing an interview with jeff where he said they have been playing the gaps in the outfield, trying to cut off hits in the gap…thus, the lines are left unguarded.

By The Church of O'Brientology

May 25, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

Welcome brothers and sisters to the new, improved Church of O’Brientology. A church where you can just be you- even if you are that guy living in his mom’s basement with a dial up connection and a six of Mickey Big Mouthes by your side. A church where everyone is welcome- even would be general managers without a clue. A church where you can share your opinions- as long as you don’t mind being reminded of your many shortcomings. Feel free to testify on any thing that is troubling your mind. No matter how inane the denizens will accept your testimony, give it all the attention they are capable of and then support you as long as you agree with them. A church where everything is forgiven, except the failure to lay down a sacrifice bunt, an overthrow of the cut-off man or the great shame, ownership of a Tim McGraw cd. I will leave you with some words that came to me in a dream, although they do sound a little like something one of mom’s new “boyfriends” was playing last night when I was trying to sleep.

I don’t go to church on Sunday

Don’t get down on my knees and pray

Don’t memorize the words of the Bible

Got my own special way

I know Jesus loves me

Maybe just a little bit more

Get down on my knees every Sunday

At Ella Guru’s record store.

Peace and Play Ball

By Will

May 25, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

Bobby will never go get Glavine when he should. He never has and he never will.

By jeff

May 25, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

Yunel and Pena are not gay….get over it.

By fastasballs

May 25, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

I’m not defending leaving Glavine in, but he had taken care of Byrnes twice before that. I think that had more to do with staying in the game, than qualifing for a win. I could be wrong of course.

By Dave

May 25, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

Mike: Who did you want in with the bases juiced since he was in “one guy too long”. Bennett can’t be a long man today after pitching yesterday. Stockman is the only real canidate, and I wouldn’t want him to come in with the bases loaded. The ball barely cleared the wall, if we had yesterday’s wind, it would have been an easy out.

By kirknga

May 25, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Again, I don’t think Escobar will go in the tank because of Pena’s release.

I do think that people who have said that there is a case to be made for keeping Pena over Miller have a rational argument and shouldn’t catch flack because part of that argument might include a negative impact on Escobar.

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

That line about Tommy and damage control earlier? Nevermind. That was Schultz, who must’ve reached over and typed it while I was away getting coffee.

By carmatter

May 25, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

Tommy didn’t lose it today, he never had it today.

Not being able to watch on TV (thanks TBS for the Yankees game), was Tommy as bad as it looks in the box score?

By N8

May 25, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

Let me get this right. In his last outing against the Mets, Bobby pulls Glavine after retiring 17 guys in a row so he can “save” him for later in the season, though he had only thrown 82 pitches.

Yet today he lets him throw 104 pithces, when he CLEARLY didn’t have his “A” Game going.

Explain that one to me DOB. Not trying to be a smart-azz.

I bought the logic of pulling him in the last outing, and was willing to accept it, if that’s what this season will be with Glavine.

But today’s “decision” to leave him out there, goes against EVERYTHING that has to do with that theory, IMO.

Just thought I’d point that out. Not mad about it. Not venting. Not calling for Bobby’s head, just don’t get it.

If you (DOB) were a Braves fan, THAT is why you would be confused/frustrated with Bobby at times. NO consistency in some of his decisions.

By Capt. Caveman (the original dawg)

May 25, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

LEW

No , I don’t. I know McWhorter b/c he was a customer of mine in business and I have a few other friends who have “access” to the school. I’ve met most of the coaches and such, I met McGill when I was helping with a baseball camp.

Other than that I’m just a member of the class of 19-never-never.

Go Dawgs.

By kirknga

May 25, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

Maybe what we thought was a discount price for Glavine wasn’t so much a discount?

By Will

May 25, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

One hit since the 2nd inning. Guess i shouldnt be surprised. That sweep of the Mets was great and i always enjoy beating the mets, but bottom line is they are p** poor right now and the Braves were lucky to not get swept by an actual good baseball team this wknd.

By Mike

May 25, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

Dave:

Cant play baseball hoping for wind. Gotta play to win. Glavine showed that he didnt have good control and was giving up alot of fly balls today. A HR earlier. Yes, Stockman, Boyer, any fresh arm would have been better than leaving Glav in there at that point. It was Eric Brynes and he has been struggling.

By johnny 99

May 25, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

DOB——

Thanks for the Bruce, mate—btw, the April 25 show at Philips was excellent, very emotional after the recent passing of Danny Federici.

Question that I’m sure has been mentioned at some point here: With this “no pain from 3/4” tack that smoltz seems to be taking, has the door been left even slightly ajar to his trying it out as a starter? Seems like the bullpen is about to be overstocked, as we’ve all noted. I also remember Soriano wanting a crack at starting at one point, could he be stretched out in that role?

Thanks, johnny 99

“Now judge, judge, I got debts no honest man could pay…”

By N8

May 25, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Now THAT non-call on Stockman’s curve-ball, was a HORRIBLE no-call of a strike.

By chrisklob

May 25, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

All you Glavine haters need to remember that the home plate umpire was squeezing him all day.

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

If Campillo can’t make next start (too early to know just yet), Bobby said didn’t know what he’d do, but mentioned Charlie Morton again. And Bennett, but said he might be too valuable in ‘pen.

By Mike

May 25, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

N8:

I agree with you…but apparantly Glav was pulled last time b/c of a sore knee.

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Uh, N8, trying to work here. Got a notebook and game story to write. I’ll give personal one-on-one explanations for others’ actions later. Gimme a few minutes.

By N8

May 25, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

“Who did you want in with the bases juiced since he was in “one guy too long””

I agree. He wasn’t in “one guy” too long. I’d say 2 or 3 guys too long.

We’ve got this GREAT bullpen, which has 3 guys with closer experience coming back SOON. Go to the pen early. Which means that possibly 3 relievers will be off the roster within the next week or so. Why not use them?

Webb is pitching tomorrow, and even though JJJ has been fantastic at home, you pull out some stops to get the TEAM a win today. Not Tommy.

But I guess that’s why the players “love” Bobby. He’ll put some guys’ individual performances above the other 24 guys on the roster, huh?

By albanian braves fan

May 25, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

is reading on blog of obrien forming “new church”.

possibly qualified. many stories on braves actually science fiction.

By Mike

May 25, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this

Does anyone else have issue with the offense? Against the dbacks we have scored 7 runs in 3 games against their 18! Micah Owings has been pitching poorly but he is still making us out to be some punks. It just feels like our offense has no life w/o Chipper. Arrrrgghhhh, i hate Micah Owings!!!!!!!!

By Bravesfan79

May 25, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

DOB…you dont have to agree with or debate with me on Pena. All i said is that the move was terrible. Yes Escobar is still a All Star Quality Shortstop, hell still make the great plays weve come used to.

Im just saying…dont be surprised when he makes more small mental lapses than usual over the next few weeks/months. IE: swinging at bad pitches, errors, base running mistakes. And whos he gonna turn to in the dugout when he goes in a hitting slump? Im not THAT concerned about Escobar, im just tired of seeing bad roster moves. (although this year has been ALOT better than last year when it comes to backup players) No one can convince me Corky is worth keeping over Javy Lopez or Pena. End of story!

And when were in the 12th inning, 2 outs and a man on 2nd and no one left to hit for the pitcher but Corky freakin Miller….. you will know i was right.

I mean seriously, i can see how he might be somewhat usefull if hes good with pitchers over a long season. But NO WAY should he be on the postseason roster if we happen to get there!
So….whos our backup catcher for the postseason?? Please dont tell me a guy hitting twice as bad as Andrew.

Im sure the Red Sox or Diamondbacks would be licking their chops to see someone like Corky trying to get a hit in a crucial situation.

Hey but other than that terrible roster move, im not complaining. The Braves are playing well and showing the potential i knew they had all along.

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

Kirknga, where were you when Glavine was going 2-0 with a 3.38 ERA in his past three starts?

Or are you one who just drops in to bash a guy every time he struggles, and conveniently ignore when he doesn’t?

And have you checked the prices for experienced starting pitchers lately?

By N8

May 25, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

chrisklob

“All you Glavine haters need to remember that the home plate umpire was squeezing him all day.”

Apparently Bobby didn’t take that into consideration, huh? Maybe he figured the home plate umpire would “come around” that inning?

Mike

I heard nothing about the knee last start. If so, my bad.

But shouldn’t that knee have been taken into consideration today then? Or did it completely heal since 5 days ago?

DOB

“If Campillo can’t make next start (too early to know just yet), Bobby said didn’t know what he’d do, but mentioned Charlie Morton again.”

Sure would be nice if we could call up these kids when they are actually ready (or even more than ready), rather than out of desperation or emergency start scenarios, huh?

I’m excited as hell to actually see the Morton kid pitch, rather than just read about what he’s done, don’t get me wrong. But I’d just as soon, not “need” to bring him up, rather that Wren and Bobby would just feel he could help, or NEEDS to be up for his own good, not to get us by.

On the other hand, nice to have some good, young depth down there in the event of an emergency start.

WOW, did Norton’s bat look S-L-O-W on that pitch from Juan Cruz. Yikes.

By JEB

May 25, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

I have to say, the pickup of Omar Infante has really been a valuable move! He is probably the best utility guy that I’ve seen the Braves have. Lockhart was good, but he sure could not play the outfield like Omar can. A .300 avg. also. Frank Wrenn - excellent move!

By albanian braves fan

May 25, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

how is possible of dan uggla having 16 homeruns?

tex having 5?

By N8

May 25, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

DOB

“Got a notebook and game story to write. I’ll give personal one-on-one explanations for others’ actions later. Gimme a few minutes.”

I figured that question was too direct and to the point, for you to actually answer. LOL!

Since you directed a comment about taking Glavine out of his last my way, I didn’t think it was out of line to ask you to try and explain it this time.

Or does that “saving” Glavine for later in the year, not come into play on Sunday day games, at home, wearing the beautiful Red jerseys, while playing the Diamondbacks, the day before Memorial Day? If so. I apologize.

I thought you mentioned something about Bobby wanting to save him for later in the year. Add to that, I thought you mentioned something about Bobby and McDowell working magic with a “patchwork” bullpen. On top of THAT, I thought you recently mentioned that Smoltz, Soriano and Gonzo, would be back real soon.

Sorry my bad. You’re right. Leaving Glavine in for the rest of that inning, goes along with all of the above info.

Bobby is god. Don’t ever question greatness. I forgot the motto. My bad.

By chrisklob

May 25, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

Mike, are you not aware that the D’backs have the best team ERA in the NL? It’s not like they’ve been throwing a bunch of minor leaguers at the Braves!

By DAP

May 25, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

wow, some of you are slamming the braves pretty hard today. im surprised…

if the braves lose this game today, they will be 4 games over .500, and only 2 games out of the lead, after having won 7 of the last 10 games. despite how well weve playes at home this year, these eleven games were almost through playing are the tuffest strech of games weve played so far!

By albanian braves fan

May 25, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

obrien is writing: and have you checked the prices for experienced starting pitchers lately?

agreeing pitchers very expensive. possibly could import from china for cheapness. like yankees.

By N8

May 25, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

DOB

Thought I’d add, that I didn’t expect YOU to answer on Bobby’s decision for me.

Just thought that it might be a question that had relevance, due to the manner and reasoning for pulling him in his last start.

Nothing more nothing less. Add to that, you seemed to agree with the decision last time when it happened. Just wanted to know your opinion, on why he MIGHT have not done the same today.

Sorry. Didn’t mean to interrupt your work.

By JEB

May 25, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

D’Backs seemed to have come in with a game plan against Glavine. They would wait him out and make him bring the ball back into the plate. It REALLY helped that the home plate umpire hardly has any strike zone. He is a tall guy that will not get down to really look at the strike zone. He is waering that special sheild under is mask as if he has taken one to the choker. Maybe that’s why he won’t get a good look at the strike zone.

Too bad the Braves are not taking advantage of his strike zone and waiting for the good pitches to come in.

By Bravesfan79

May 25, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

i know i wasnt the only one wishing Bobby had pinchitt Chipper for KJ with 2 men on base last inning.
I dont wanna hurt KJ’s confidence or anything, but that was our chance to get back in the game.

By eric the elder

May 25, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

That lame effort by Francoeur on the dinker to right in the 8th is exactly what got Andruw Jones pulled off the field by Bobby a few years ago. Very disappointing.

By kirknga

May 25, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

Unfortunately I think that the D’backs have proven to be a better team than the Braves over the past few seasons.

On paper it doesn’t look like such an overwhelming advantage, but on the field they seem to be able to impose their will to win.

By chrisklob

May 25, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

N8, my point is that all day Glavine was forced to throw extra pitches to get through an inning. I believe he gave up 5 BB. That’s a ton of extra pitches he had to make.

By JEB

May 25, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

Smoltz, Sorianno, Gonzales coming in. Here is my picks for who is going out: 1) Stockman 2)Ring 3) Resop.

DOB besides Stockman, does Ring or Resop have any options left to be sent down?

By Jeff321

May 25, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Whew this one is getting ugly. I’ll save myself any further misery. Anyway, great last couple posts, N8. Now its time to fire up the BBQ.

By Bravesfan79

May 25, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

After showing on tv the stats about how the Diamondbacks kill Lefties…WHY is a lefty reliever in the game??

Is this turning into another one of Bobby famous throw away games?
We might as well go ahead and put in Corky for Mccann so we can have Mccan fresh for the rest of the week.

Great, NOW we bring in the righty, after giving up another run and loading the bases.
I was hoping for a 8th inning comeback…..not looking to good now.

By Mike

May 25, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

chrisklob

I am aware of that. As i am also aware that our team ERA is .01 behind them. Also our team BA is 2nd in the NL were as arizonas BA is 9th. Just though that the runs scored would be a little closer than 20 - 7!

By N8

May 25, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

Shaun

So far (8th inning of game 3), the D-Backs have a run differential of +13 against us in this series.

Does that mean that they’re better than us?

By fastasballs

May 25, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Jeff does seem a bit slower at going after balls this season.

By albanian braves fan

May 25, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

obrien: baseball games is taking too long!

please confront braves officials and suggesting brave pitchers not walking as many batters!

obrien voice of people!

By Dave

May 25, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

Mike:

I don’t think I suggested that anyone was ‘hoping for wind’. My point, which I thought was semi obvious, is that if the ball falls two feet shorter(which it could have), Blanco catches it, and Glav is inline for the win.

By N8

May 25, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

chrisklob

“N8, my point is that all day Glavine was forced to throw extra pitches to get through an inning. I believe he gave up 5 BB. That’s a ton of extra pitches he had to make.”

I got your point just fine.

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

JEB, neither Ring nor Resop has options.

By Mike

May 25, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Eric the Elder…

I know what you mean. There was a play, I think the day before yesterday, that a ball bounced off the fisrt base bag and the ump was a little late calling it a fair ball, and Frenchy was just strolling over to the ball.

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

N8 the H8, glad the Braves could play a real stinker to give you hand over most others here who’ve been far too happy with this winning streak.

This should help you enjoy your Memorial Day feast a bit better, a big ol’ heaping bowl of N8 sad and a heaping side of N8 vitriol for the mean beat writer.

Please keep your amusing little bitter posts coming. They’re entertaining as all get-out.

Honestly, I’m continually in awe of the approach that you take in following “your” team. Amazing.

By McFann

May 25, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

What’s with Gotay?? What’s going on??

By Dave

May 25, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

To the bashers: I always find it so interesting the comments people make on a blog, or message board or other “faceless” medium. I don’t know each of you personally, but I highly doubt, if you met Bobby Cox(or DOB for that matter), you’d have the guts to say any of the crap you spew on here.

I’m not saying you can’t second guess…hey, that’s the fun part…but throwing out the personal insults is kind of childish.

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

Eleven freakin’ walks by Braves pitchers, with three outs to go…. Oy. Yikes. The horror.

By JEB

May 25, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

Resop could go before Stockman. Resop has NOT looked good in his last 2 outtings.

After watching him and Stockman, it would not surprise me!

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

Well, if it wasn’t clear (and it was) that Resop would be one of those hitting the road when the three veterans join the bullpen, then surely it should be now.

By the way, this Resop inning is far worse than the corneal abrasions I once got in college from, er, sleeping too often with my contact lenses in.

By JEB

May 25, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for the info!

Say goodbye folks to Resop! This will probably be his last time on the mound in a Braves uni.

By Mike

May 25, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

BC obviously threw this one in as he did the one on Fri. Hate to see the Bravos having some pitching and hitting woes against a good team like the dbacks. Would have hoped we could have held a little more toe to toe with them as far as run differential.

By THB

May 25, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

I just laugh when I come on the blog when the Braves aren’t playing well.

GLAVINE SUCKS!!! RELEASE HIM IMMEDIATELY! AND JOJO WILL NEVER AMOUNT TO ANYTHING!

We need to chill, Glavine didn’t have his best stuff but he’s been decent this year and if you were expecting 7+ innings of 2 hit ball every time then you’re fooling yourself. He is what he is, a solid middle rotation starter. He’ll have his bad days, as will Reyes. The D’Backs are good and we weren’t on top of our game today. Let’s just win tomorrow.

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

By the way, Braves face Brandon Webb tomorrow. He’s thrown complete-game shutouts against them each of the last two times he’s faced them, allowing a total of six hits in 18 innings in those games.

By Bravesfan79

May 25, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

If we get to the postseason…its clear we need another 1A Starter. the A’s Harden would be PERFECT for the postseason. 2 bad the question with him is can he last thru the regular season…
But my postseason rotation would be Hudson, Harden, JJ, and possibly Campillo over Glavine. Thats a rotation that could get us by the DBacks, Phillies, and Red Sox.
Without another ace starter on the hill, i just cant see the Braves getting past the NLCS.

Im actually in favor of having Smoltz be a closer for the season, then as long as our bullpen is still strong at the end of the season, moving Smoltz back to starter.

Although this move dosent make as much sense now as it would of when Bobby choose Mike (NOT a big game pitcher) Hampton , over Smoltz to start that game 5 against the Astros. I had a hunch what was gonna happen the night before the game, and i was right. By the time Smoltz got in the game for damage control, the game was over. And so was the season.

2 me, that one decision, will go down as one of the worst in Bobby Cox history. Because he refused to take a chance from the “norm”, with not just the game on the line, but with the Season on the line!

I dont care if Smoltz has to throw underhanded….no one else id rather see on the mound in a decisive game!

By albanian braves fan

May 25, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

is thinking of something to shout in frustration. perhaps:

have another donut koharski!

By McFann

May 25, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

He’s thrown complete-game shutouts against them each of the last two times he’s faced them

BLECH!!!

Don’t remind us…

By Mike

May 25, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

I got a bad feeling that our home winning pct. is gonna begin to even out before our road win pct. is.

By kirknga

May 25, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

DOB

Wow are you having issues with people who don’t agree with you?

First,I got no beef with you. I enjoy the blog and tend to agree with you about 90% of the time about baseball and music.

To answer your question I’ve been here…I’m just a pithy commentor is all. I’m also a loyal Braves fan before there was a blog to make a comment. I actually attend games too and have for years. So I will not apologize or take a back seat to anyone as a Braves or a baseball fan.

To answer your other question, yes I have seen the price of pitching..it’s an overpriced market. But so what?

I simply suggested that maybe…MAYBE…Glavine might be earning what he is worth rather than being a “discounted” player. I’ve never written one negative thing about Glavine ever..but you throw some ‘tude anyway.

I have also believe that a case can be made(based on offensive skills, versatility) that keeping Miller over Pena is not some far out argument that some seem to think it is.

I also said that based on the success they have had over the past few seasons, that the D’backs are a better team.

None of what I have said should be cause to challenge my loyalty to the Braves or question when I choose to comment on this blog. I’m not going to apologize or shrink away just because I take a position(s) on something you don’t like.

But hey, after all this time you’ve choosen to respond to something I’ve written..so that’s kewl in way :)

I challenge you to search the comments that I have made over the existence of this blog and make the case that I’m someone of the nature you call me out to suggest that I might be.

By chrisklob

May 25, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

I think that FW should blow this team up. They SUCK!!!! Trade everything you can for the future. This team is awful and frankly, most of them don’t deserve to wear a major league uniform. Hell, I’m not sure some of these guys should wear a little league uniform! I am embarassed to be a Braves fan and am disgusted that they have the second best ERA in the league. You know what second place is? FIRST LOSER!!!

What about that team BA? Yep, you guess it! FIRST LOSERS again! AWFUL! How about team SLG? THIRD IN THE LEAGUE? Why do they even bother?

Chipper Jones is a hack. Can’t he hit any better than .417? Pathetic!

Bobby Cox is obviously a moron. There’s a reason that LaRussa is the only active manager to have won more games than him. Put him out to pasture already. He doesn’t have a clue what he’s doing.

Yep, better trade Escobar NOW too. He’s so ticked off about Pena being DFA’d that he’s gonna start launching throws over Tex’s head into the seats on purpose! Yeah, that’s what professionals do!

THIS TEAM HAS NO FUTURE. TRADE ALL THESE LOSERS. GET WHAT YOU CAN WREN. GET WHATEVER YOU CAN.

LOL!!! :-D

By eric the elder

May 25, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

No sensible fan would want to throw in the towel on Glavine, but maybe we can agree that he can be frustrating to watch.

Ball one, ball two, strike one, ball three, foul ball, foul ball, ball four.

Bobby calls him a “bulldog” who “never gives in.” Glavine could get away with that in his prime when he was getting the opposite of squeezed, but not now.

Glavine WAS a magnificent pitcher, and he WILL be in the Hall of Fame. But “was” is the past,and “will” is the future. For the present, I’m not sure we can expect a lot.

By TNRON

May 25, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

DOB; just FYI regarding location of Smokies Park (not that you really care),it is located in the city of Sevierville (hometown to Dolly Parton)in the community of Kodak. Was there any discussion in the offseason about perhaps making Acosta into a starter.I believe he did start some in the minors.If so do you see him going to Richmond to start and Stockman remaining in long relief when Smoltz/Soriano return?

By Random

May 25, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

chase: ”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”

Such things are “obvious” only to someone who’s already made up their mind.

By h_charles

May 25, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

Looks like we are headed for 3-1 losss to the D-Backs this series. Not really surprised. We can’t ever beat them, and 5 in a row was just too many games to win consecutively. We need the old Bravo reality check to bring us back down near .500.

Hopefully the Milwaukee trip will help us get back on track. I don’t expect more than 3 runs most against Webb — not the kind of guy we light up. Jair will keep us close. This time can’t hit pitchers who pound the strike zone. We just threw two guys out there in JoJo and Glavine that don’t. Jair will give them issues, so we have a shot if we can find a way to score against Webb.

Better to lose this way than by one, of course. Here’s to hoping the Marlins fall twice today, or at least once.

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is going with the Braves on the trip, though that doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll be activated immediately. Might still have another rehab appearance, will know more after his side session tomoorrow, perhaps.

McCann left game with “heat symptoms,” but he’s fine. He’ll be in there tomorrow, I’m sure.

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

TNRON: Haven’t heard anything about converting Acosta to starting role, not since late last season.

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

kirknga, no problem. Just thought you were another of those who seem to take glee in waiting for Glavine to have a bad start, then jumping in when he does. But not acknowledging he’s been pretty good, especially for the money they’re paying him.

Hey, didn’t mean to jump your ship. Four hours watching that game, coupled with the soul-sucking force of the H8’s posts, left me in a miserable mood for about 15 minutes before I got away from the laptop.

By A-ville Ranger

May 25, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

It’s an open question if this team can live with prosperity anymore.I don’t care how positive you are,the question has to enter your mind.

By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)

May 25, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

Wow, the starting pitching looked great less than one week ago. Then, Jo-Jo Reyes gets lit up, Campillo has major blister problems and Glavine gives up his second career grand slam.

I really don’t blame Bobby for leaving Glavine in to long, he was trying to save his bullpen an inning or two of work. Cox gambled and he lost.

Brandon Webb is pitching tomorrow, not good.

By kirknga

May 25, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

DOB

No problem. Just don’t want to be labeled as that type of person; especially when as a fan I hurt when the Braves lose.

For the record I like Glavine and believe he will be a plus as the season goes on. And I have no major issue with this team except situational, particularly late-inning , hitting.

I believe the team needs another good bat(left field??) and/or starter if they are to win a playoff spot.

By Coach is a moron

May 25, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

Go away Coach, you are boring us.

By Lew

May 25, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

Random-Dude, you’d better be careful. If you disagree with Chase, he’ll swear you’re attacking him. You won’t make his short list of supporters.

By McFann

May 25, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Chief. Huh……

By Overlord

May 25, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

what if in 3 weeks the rotation looks like this:

HUDSON

JAIR

CAMPILLO

HAMPTON

GLAVINE

I still think glavine will be our X factor this season. To me campillo is a lock for #3 spot. And I still think our best choice right now for 5th is bennett, I would move him to the starting role as soon as soriano is activated.

By Martin

May 25, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

DOB! do you talk to frank wren sometimes? tell him we want maddux badly! we all want him back…ask him if is gonna pursue the padres for him!

By Davey O'Bravien

May 25, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

Dab Blasted Diamondbacks!!

Good thing is, there is still a long ways to go. Losing ain’t fun, but there is plenty of time to get players healthy and start another winning streak.

The bullpen will be phenomenal (read AJC article) for the latter part of the season. Starters? Should give us enough opportunities to get something positive going. Don’t H8 on the Bravos for a loss in May, when they’re still within reach of 1st. They WILL make a return to the playoffs…..THIS SEASON.

Ain’t nothin gonna stop me from tomahawk choppin. See yall @ the Ted. (Awesome HR, yesterday, Jeff!) Later folks, my cup needeth more whiskey! GO BRAVOS!!!!!!!!!!

By McFann

May 25, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

Meant to say, “Hmm…”

It’s been a long day.

By I H8 H8ers!

May 25, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this

Save your venom for the enemy!

Coach, it’s funny how quickly the script can flip in MLB. The rollercoaster makes my stomach turn, but I believe we’ll be alright. The Mets are in self destruct mode, the Phils aren’t playing great, and we can catch florida. The Nats…sorry but I just can’t resist… are just gnats.

By Stuart

May 25, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

It was a tough day at the ball yard for the bravos. The d-backs are an exciting and dynamic young ball club. Hopefully the bravos can put together a win tommorrow. It would be a shame for such a positive homestand to end with 2 losses in a row, because the homestand has been a really nice step foward. Hopefully some of the good vibes will carry over to the roadie and the team can get that situation turned around.

This team still has some warts in the rotation and the lineup, but the braves have enough to contend in the east, but will take another big (preferably right handed)OF bat and a veteran SP to contend for the larger prize though. That said it still should be more fun to watch than the last 2 years.

By minookadawg

May 25, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this

I’m going off topic for just a minute. As I enjoy this Memorial Day Weekend, I just want to say THANK YOU to the TROOPS and the VETERANS! Without your dedication and bravery, our nation would not be the same beautiful country that we love and are blessed to live in. Thank you all!!

Now, Let’s go Braves.

By Hillary

May 25, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

N8, Robert Kennedy wasn’t murdered until June. Don’t give up on the season yet.

By FloridaBrave

May 25, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

In happier news, Jason Heyward went 3-5 with 2 2B, 2 RBI, and 1 RS. He is now batting .330!

DOB, Any word on when he’ll be called up?

By BA

May 25, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

Glavine was squeezed today, big time. And as far as Cox keeping him in there “two or three hitters” too long, does that mean he should’ve had the bullpen going double-barrel…going INTO the fifth? With a three hundred game winner on the mound? With only eighty-something pitches thrown? And even if you think he should’ve taken Glavine out before Byrnes, you’re saying you’d rather have a reliever who’s barely had time to get loose as opposed to a hall of famer?! If that pitch is thrown down two more inches, Mr. .217 pops it up, and you’re out of the inning with the lead. If that ball lands an INCH lower on the wall, it bounces back on the field and half those runs score. I’m having trouble seeing how you could possibly lay this loss at Bobby’s feet.

By McFann

May 25, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this

BA—

Well put. It’s not Bobby’s fault at all.

By TNRON

May 25, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB. My thinking is he (Acosta)would add depth to the rotation if there were to be an injury.As of now,if an injury ocurred,Morton would be called up(which the organization is reluctant to do),or Bennett would be inserted (which Cox is reluctant to do),or Carlyle would be activated (which I am reluctant to see).

By David O'Brien

May 25, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this

FloridaBrave, if you mean when Heyward will be called to the majors, I’d say at least 2-3 years.

By BA

May 25, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

Thank’s McFann. The Diamondsnakes are clearly a very good team. And young. I think we’ll be dealing with them in the playoffs for years to come. I like Acosta, but how hard is it too stretch a pitcher? And as electric as his stuff is, does he have enough pitches to start? Has he ever started in the minors? He’s done a solid job out there in the ‘pen, do you fix it if it isn’t broken? Same thing with Bennett- he’s so valuable in the long role.

By FloridaBrave

May 25, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Sorry bad wording. I meant to Myrtle Beach.

By 3

May 25, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

Here’s a quote from an article written three years ago about that Jerome Gamble guy who almost threw the no hitter last night in the Smoltz AA game:

“Shoot, this kid is better than sex,” the Sox’ bullpen coach Herm Starrette said about Gamble, whose physique he compared to the young Bob Gibson. “He’s got everything - fastball, nasty curveball, changeup. All he’s got to do is pitch. The best thing to do with him is leave him alone.”

http://www.brewerfan.net/ViewDailyReport.do?dailyReportId=324

Sounds like he has had a ton of arm problems in his career. Could he be this year’s Bennett?

By BA

May 25, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

I’m no expert, but the Bearded Icon looked just fine, save for the goofy “M” hat. I kind of hope they initiate the “Smoltz for Resuck” trade tomorrow. I’m also looking forward to the “Stockman for Soriano” trade, though the Aussie has done a good job-homely looking fellow, though. Get these bullpen studs hurling, and THEN you might see double-barreled bullpen in the fourth!

By AuburnBrave

May 25, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

DOB

With the big guns returning to the pen in the near future, do you see any of the current relievers being used as trade bate to maybe bolster the starting rotation, and if so, who would be prime candidates?

By McFann

May 25, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

You’re welcome, BA.

By StingerSplash

May 25, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

I heard REM was scheduled to be on Austin City Limits last night? Anybody see it? Any reviews?

By Random

May 25, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this

TNRON: “Was there any discussion in the offseason about perhaps making Acosta into a starter.I believe he did start some in the minors.If so do you see him going to Richmond to start and Stockman remaining in long relief when Smoltz/Soriano return?”

That’s an intriguing idea — I think it’d be a great solution to the imminent bull-pen log-jam without having to waive somebody.

Are you sure you’re not from Cocke County?

By TNRON

May 25, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Random: That actually was part of my thought process,Acosta has options.BTW I live in Jefferson County,just outside Sevier County,near Douglas Lake.

By chase

May 25, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

In case alot of you didn’t see it..Someone else has been posting with MY NAME and saying crazy stuff and immature stuff….

I will be posting under another name from now on

By Shaun

May 25, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

Shaun

So far (8th inning of game 3), the D-Backs have a run differential of +13 against us in this series.

Does that mean that they’re better than us?

N8, say it with me—sample size!

By Tomas

May 25, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this

Cincinati and the padres are in the 18th inning. Second time this happens this season to the Padres. This games are what burns pitchers.

By N8

May 25, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

DOB

Just got home from a day with the fam. I had a good time. Thanks for asking.

You might wanna go back and read my posts from THIS blog. I’m not one to “cry” foul, or whine for getting treated unfairly (god knows I bring this crap upon myself), but I just got done reading ALL of my posts (some directed at you - some not), and I don’t see ONE SINGLE FRICKING POST that deserves the two lashings you gave back to me.

Quite honestly, I’d like an apology. Worst case scenario, I’d appreciate it, if you would point out SPECIFICALLY which of my posts today (other days don’t count), had enough power to “suck the soul out of you”, to cause you to be in a “miserable mood”???

I’ve said some rude things to people on here. I’ve even attacked back at you when having my azz reamed in the past. BELIEVE ME, I know when I’m being annoying and bringing the “mood” of the blog down. 99.9 percent of the time it’s purposely done.

Today was NOT one of those days. I asked a legitimate question, and you chose to rip me a new A-hole like I was actually asking you to shine my shoes in front of your family.

Not my fault you had to sit through a game with 11 walks, is it?

Seriously, just let me know what I asked that was so bad. Be man enough to point it.

By N8

May 25, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this

Shaun

It was sarcasm. Simmer down.

Besides, since Arizona is the team that DOB (and many others) feel are gonna win it all, that’s hardly a slam on the Braves ability.

I feel much “better” about losing home games against the D-Backs than losing road games to the Pirates, if that makes any sense.

By Santa3247

May 25, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

Hi, I’m SEONG HO, YOON living in Jinhae city southkorea now.

Today’s game was fantastic comedy show of head-up git Gregor Branco.^*^

He didn’t catch the hit ball of grand-slam, and didn’t catch again the only hit Philip Stockman gave.^*^

If today Mattew Diaz would play starting LF, Tom Glavine could get another win.

Hey! Phillip Stockman listen!!

1. Neglect the speed-gun, when you pitch Babylon makes fraud about speed-gun, 3~4mph can be reduced babylon. Your fastball and breaking ball are unhittable. Take self-confidence with prudence when you pitch.

2. Shut lips when you throw

3. In set position, you don’t need to raise left leg high, the movement of pitched ball is connected with the arm’s swing speed and right leg’s kicking.

And make slide your left leg to the spotting point quickly at ground when runners are in bases.

1. You have to move the exactly same incredible speed as when you drow check to 1B.^*^

2. Your left arm and shoulder must be directed to the point you want to throw at home-plate when your right arm is at just ready-point of hard throwing.

3. For exact control of pitched ball, you have to remember of the stepping point of your left foot.

4. And don’t grip ball too tightly. If so, number of spin of pitched ball would reduce.

5. Use power of whole body only after footing your left foot on ground. And shortest time you have to use power with softness.

6. Remember now your total ERA in record is 1.00 and this year 0.00 untill now. ^*^

May the force of Messiah be with you

By bravesfan

May 25, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

DOB, who do you think will be sent down or released tomorrow? Since Soriano is probably coming off the DL.

By i cant take it anymore

May 25, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

at least the braves dont have to wear those terrible padres uniforms.

By Random

May 25, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

brent a.: “as soon as [the Celtics] lose a home game their confidence is likely to be really shaken.”

Random: “Yeah, yeah, yeah — and as soon as they win a road game, their confidence is likely to really soar.”

brent a.: “My point has been and continues to be, if the Celtics do lose a home game, how will they respond on the road, when they haven’t been able to win a single road play-off game, to date?”

Celtics Grab First Road Win, Take 2-1 Lead

Boston 94, Detroit 80 (F)

By Champ

May 25, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

Glavine is fine, folks.

He’s the man.

By Deep Throat

May 25, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this

So help me if Soriano comes of the DL on Monday and this team sends Stockman down instead of DFAing Chris Resop….

By Deep Throat

May 25, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this

So help me if Soriano comes off the DL on Monday and this team sends Stockman down instead of DFAing Chris Resop….

By Rudolph4358

May 25, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this

Santa3247 LMAO!

By jbutler

May 25, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

DOB Hilarious analysis of your corneal abrasions. I don’t think I could come up w/a college analogy and keep it printable for the masses.

N8/H8 Honestly…its a blog. Have a little fun - and for your heart/ulcer/hyrnia’s sake…lighten up!!!

By Lou Vales

May 25, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

Dear Larry(Refuse to call a near 40 year old adult Chipper), I have a suggestion. As long as you are employed by the Braves Don’t play with your kids, don’t dress yourself—and for future reference refrain from showering, brushing your teeth or getting out of bed without an EMT present.

You are arguably the GREATEST switch hitter in MLB history, and probably in the Top 20 of all hitters PERIOD. It has just been your misfortune to have played with a collection of Choke Artists that have frittered away the opportunity to have won at least 2 more World Series. And now your body is starting to undergo the normal deterioration that comes with advancing age. I do give you credit for obviously never having used HGH or steroids.

Heck, you can’t go off into retirement with one less ring than Jeff Conine. That would be wrong, but I’m betting on it!!

By Real Men

May 26, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

To The Dave That Posted Awhile Ago About Being “Faceless Cowards”, I’ll paraphrase, you said many would not say “nasty” things in person, well, I’ll bet that more than MANY have never hit their wives or girlfriends. Somehow I bet that fear has only been struck into a very few hearts.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this

Just heard a stat on Baseball Tonight that, if true, is rather remarkable: The Tigers are 1-24 in games in which they’ve scored fewer than four runs.

By Chase

May 26, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this

I just want to say I’m sorry for all the hell I’ve caused everyone. Please forgive me.

By N8

May 26, 2008 12:44 AM | Link to this

jbutler

“N8/H8 Honestly…its a blog. Have a little fun - and for your heart/ulcer/hyrnia’s sake…lighten up!!!”

Really? You’re telling ME to “have a little fun & lighten up”????

That’s too funny.

BTW: My heart is fine, no ulcers and I had hernia surgery about 16 years ago, (humping too much band gear), but either way, I’m not sure what an injury of that nature would have to do with sitting at a computer typing, or watching baseball.

If you’re in danger of getting a hernia when YOU type, may I suggest a new technique. You do realize that you’re not supposed to LIFT the desk while you type, right?

By Deep Throat

May 26, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this

Anyone notice that Smoltz is kind of, sort of doing what he complained Chipper was doing last season?

Just sayin’….

By J.D.

May 26, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this

heard that one too DOB- really surprising how bad they are struggling, especially with the bats they have

By jeff

May 26, 2008 12:59 AM | Link to this

N8, You make my day. I love to read your blogs. Excellent questions, great details, thats what burns some people. What kind of band gear? Do you work for a band? What kind etc?

By CharlieAlphaBravo

May 26, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this

N8:

The “desk-lifting” joke was quite good. Happy, amusing comments are even better when they come from you, because you don’t expect them. Keep it up.

By That soul sucking sound

May 26, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this

Anybody hear me?

By N8

May 26, 2008 1:21 AM | Link to this

That soul sucking sound

“Anybody hear me?”

That’s just REM playing in the background.

By BA

May 26, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this

“Babylon makes fraud about speedgun”. Must be why Trader Jack got so mad at Brad Penny. Santa, can the Messiah pitch every firth day?

By BA

May 26, 2008 1:49 AM | Link to this

I’ve noticed a lot of Corky Miller hating in recent days. I’d say first, his defense/game calling is underrated. Second, he plays behind arguably the league’s best catcher, and it’s hard to even hit a little when you rarely get to start a game. As far as the argument that Pena was a better option off the bench, I’d say the back-up catcher almost never pinch hits anyway. Catchers are at a premium these days, and Miller is clearly an above average catch and throw guy (like five error in his LIFE).

By nolie

May 26, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this

DOB! do you talk to frank wren sometimes? tell him we want maddux badly! we all want him backMartin

No we ALL don’t. Speak for yourself John

By P-Town Brave

May 26, 2008 2:22 AM | Link to this

BA

The reason there is so much Corky Miller hate…

I mean c’mon man! That guy hasn’t hit well since the Clinton administration!

DOB

I think you mentioned this earlier, but who are the 3 to go when our 3 headed monster arrives to our pen? My guess would be Resop, Stockman, and Ring…

Along w/ that, what happens if we do need to call-up Morton for Thursday (which I hope happens)…do we just send Stockman down and play it from there?

Finally, when Prado gets back, who gets the heave there…Gotay maybe?

By BA

May 26, 2008 2:34 AM | Link to this

Don’t think he hit much then either, P-town. But the problem is, some of these folks think the catcher is SUPPOSED to hit .330 and hit a ton of homers. That’s what makes McCann so exceptional, because 95% of catchers in the world can’t even hit close to that. If Diaz and (ugabrave’s archrival) Frenchy were hitting more Miller wouldn’t be as noticeable.

By Moby Grape

May 26, 2008 2:37 AM | Link to this

Anyone notice that Smoltz is kind of, sort of doing what he complained Chipper was doing last season?

Just sayin’DeepThroat

He11, he did it last year not all that long after calling Chipper out didn’t he? After 14 years of playing with a guy and especially one as productive as Chipper has been, to call him out publicly to the media instead of talking to him privately was an incredible insult. I lost a ton of respect for Smoltz over that. If I were Chipper I’d never forgive him for that.

By Random

May 26, 2008 2:54 AM | Link to this

Gotta agree with nolie (“No we ALL don’t [want maddux back badly!]”)

At least not badly enough to give up a player of our own.

The very most I would 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 bona fide rent-a-player situation.

(Except, I guess he’s in the final year of his contract, huh?)

Okay — cash only, then.

By BA

May 26, 2008 3:13 AM | Link to this

I’d take Maddog in a heartbeat over JoJo or Chucky or Buddy. We could activate Eddie Perez, just to sweeten the deal for him. If they brought back Pendleton, Nixon, Mercker, etc. they should definitely go after Maddux. He’s better than Glavine these days, and Glavine has been a huge help. We’re going to need another starter, that’s for sure. And we could use a left fielder, freakin’ B.J. Surhoff would look good compared to Diaz this year.

By Random

May 26, 2008 3:32 AM | Link to this

Man, you scare me BA — I can’t tell if you’re serious or joking.

Half and half?

By Random

May 26, 2008 5:12 AM | Link to this

BA: “And we could use a left fielder, freakin’ B.J. Surhoff would look good compared to Diaz this year.”

Nope, sorry, no way — “there is no crying in baseball.”

And BJ was the biggest crybaby ever on the Braves roster (not counting Bobby Cox questioning ball-strike calls), without even considering his pitiful press conference (what a disgrace!).

By johnny 99

May 26, 2008 5:57 AM | Link to this

Hey all, and particularly DOB—

I almost never post, but am an avid and uber-frequent blog reader. Typically, I don’t post because any questions I might have get addressed and/or answered in the course of other, more frequently seen denizens’ questions and answers, and DOB’s quality work. With that said, and the late hour aside (I manage a bar on Crescent Ave. in midtown ATL, and thus keep anti-banker’s hours…), I simply MUST address one thing in particular…albeit without having read all posts and flaming to the bottom of the blog to post upon seeing this, courtesy of our boy N8, at 10:03, and with hopes that no one else has jumped on it:

*BELIEVE ME, I know when I’m being annoying and bringing the “mood” of the blog down. 99.9 percent of the time it’s purposely done.

Today was NOT one of those days. I asked a legitimate…*

Dude, sometimes i think you’re on track, sometimes i think you’re annoying as all getout, but with regard to the above, one SIMPLE question…WHY?!?! Oh my god, WHY?!?

What possible purpose could there be in that? I truly exert effort NOT to judge, but Jesus Christ, man, what’s the point in that, other than to get a guy who works his butt off covering our team better than and more than anyone else on the plane, to respond to/yell at you?

Please, for all of us, for DOB, and most of all for you, find some other method of validation that is less tiresome…maybe without your constant distraction, we can get relevant questions answered and discussions started. Call me all the names you want, I’ll take it on the chin if you’ll even take a moment to CONSIDER what on earth your motivations could be…

Apologies for the missive, and Kentucky bourbon-aided typing, but wow….i usually skip anything that’s not got DOB’s heading, and you illustrate why.

already feeling awkward…, johnny 99

“well judge, judge, I got debts no honest man could pay…”

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

Johnny99, glad I wasn’t the only one left wondering “why?” after that peculiar statement from Mr. Personality.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

P-Town, the decisions aren’t cut-and-dried. They aren’t already made. Someone could get hurt between now and when Gonzo comes off DL, for instance.

But if I had to guess three right now, I’d say Ring when Gonzo comes off (braves won’t need three lefties, and Ohman obviously stays).

And Resop hasn’t only been used about six times in past month and gave up another couple walks yesterday, ERA’s near 6. Nevermind out of options, I’d guess he’ll get moved.

Stockman could easily be sent back to Richmond, do the back-and-forth thing a few more time this year. Bennett’s not out of options, but Bobby values him too much to move him.

By 234234

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

DOB: Nice statement about Resop…don’t recall reading anything about Glavine’s horrible outing and how bad he was… seems to me a corneal abrasion was a delight compared to what Glavine did..that kid has a mere 3 1/2 yrs of professional pitching in his resume.. he needs some time in AAA to get some work and refine his stuff…

By JerseyGil

May 26, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

minookadawgI’m going off topic for just a minute. As I enjoy this Memorial Day Weekend, I just want to say THANK YOU to the TROOPS and the VETERANS! Without your dedication and bravery, our nation would not be the same beautiful country that we love and are blessed to live in. Thank you all!!…..Thanks,I’M a VIETNAM VET, but a little big of history….Today is MEMORIAL DAY..It the day to REMEMBER ALL MAN & WOMEN PERISHED in the MILITARY SERVICES….Veteran Day we celebrate ours VETERAN. THANKS DOB for all you wonderful work with this BLOG…

By JerseyGil

May 26, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

I don’t blame Glavine for the horrible outing yesterday…Glad,Mad dog & Moyer depend who is the ump behind home plate, yesterday Gladvine can’t get any close call in the outside the plate, that make a lot of different. I saw him having a conversation after inning with the ump.

By BulldawgBrave

May 26, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Good Memorial Day fellow bloggers…

First off…let’s remember what the day is about and reflect on that.

Now, to today’s game…Brandon Webb is a great pitcher and he’ll be tough to beat BUT..JAIR actually has a slightly better ERA and as long as he pitches well the Braves will have a good chance to win…

If they do win..that’ll be a 8-3 homestand against the A’s, METS, and DBACKS…NOT BAD at all…

After being swept by the Marlins you had to figure we were going to get their best punch

The Braves still need (in my opinion) another starter to SOLIDIFY the rotation…I’d preferre someone like AARON HARANG but I would definitly take MADDUX..

This would take pressure off the young guys at the back end of the rotation as well as the aces (Huddy & Jair) at the top

With Smoltz, Soriano, and Gonzo coming back to the pen, that may free up someone as trade bait…

It would’ve been nice to pair up a Resop with PENA and see if that could’ve got MADDUX

What do you guys think it would take to get someone like HARANG (if it could be done)

By Jeff R

May 26, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

What? Fifty games into the season and Tommy Glavine’s getting lit up like the dearly departed Mark Redman. Could this forty-plus pitcher be in his decline? Maybe the end of last season for Tommy was more than a bad stretch.

And whose replacing Smoltz in the rotation? Do fans really think that a scrub is going to step in and consistently replace Smoltz’s quaility starts?

The team has Hudson and Jurrjens starting and a lot of trouble.

By JerseyGil

May 26, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

DOB Now that almost two month in the season, did you think the FISH are for real….I think we have to including in the equation, there are a young club with a good Pen.

By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)

May 26, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

On this one day of the year in which we honor our fallen brothers in arms, it once again reminds me of what makes the sacrifice of those who have paid the ultimate price, worth the reward of Freedom.

Uncle John, you will always be my hero. On June 6th 1944, storming the beaches of Normandy, you did nothing less than save the world as we know it. For that and the way you inspired me growing up, I will be forever grateful.

By eric the elder

May 26, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

Thinking that baseball is a metaphor for life is a bit of a stretch, but there is an element that, to me, does apply.

For most of my adult life, I have worked with teens and young adults. I believe that our country’s highest priority is to prepare America for our children. That affects how I think, act, and vote.

As one about to become a great-grandfather, the future is not mine to cling to. The future belongs to our youth.

It pains me a little to see older baseball players thinking otherwise. Many of them can certainly continue to make contributions, but at what price? It costs them physical breakdowns, mental stamina, and, most of all, a break with the reality that they aren’t who they used to be except, perhaps, in spurts. One more year, one more game, is not worth the loss in pride and respect.

The Julio Francos and Jamie Moyers of the game bring a kind of deadly, suffocating ambiance that is stultifying and boring to those of us who prefer youthful exuberance.

Watching once-greats who are receiving the lion’s share of the payroll playing (when they are able) modest baseball is not as entertaining as digging ditches.

By BulldawgBrave

May 26, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

JerseyGil

The FISH are really having to play well above their heads to stay SLIGHTLY in front a BRAVES team that has been RIDDLED with crucial injuries….

I for one don’t think they can maintain it once the BRAVES start getting more of their bullets back in the gun

By Austin

May 26, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

Coach

Great Post. Great man.

By Austin

May 26, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

eric the elder

I disagree with you 100%. How is watching a 48 year old man hitting a bomb boring? Or watching Jamie Moyer and his 84 mph fastball stifle opponents at times.

By Coach Smith

May 26, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

Braves win today…You heard it here first…

Hey just trying to be positive especially since its Memorial Day…

Support the Troops and Veterans

By eric the elder

May 26, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

Austin

No one should post here without expecting disagreement. I respect yours.

The examples you cite are instances of what I meant by contributions “in spurts.” However, I take a wider view.

To me, it is far more interesting to watch players who are on an upward trajectory and to wonder how good they can be. Watching players who pretty far along the downward slope and knowing that soon it will not end well is less intriguing. In fact, it’s a little depressing.

But I understand your point.

By Lew

May 26, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

Well, I don’t know about the rest of y’all, but I’ve got a great day going here in Vermont. Sunny, low 70’s with almost no humidity. The lilacs and dogwoods finally decided to bloom, it smells like fresh cut grass and there’s a game at 1:10. Found some great tomatoes. Life is good. Hope it is as nice for everyone else out there in blogland. Time to go walk through the potato patch and then listen to the new Mudcrutch CD before the game. Peace, love and whatever. Catch y’all later.

By monty

May 26, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

I don’t fought Tommy for yesterday’s loss, if anything I fought Bobby Cox. There have been many games in the past when I have been screaming at the T.V. for Bobby to pull a pitcher because it is clearly evident that they are about to self destruct, they are struggling like a fish out of water and sure a enough BAM! There it goes, either sailing over the fence or into the corner for a double and now the Braves are behind and have lost momentum. THat’s not to say that Cox is a bad manager, he is what he is a HOF coach. However, Bobby in my opinion has a fault in that at times he is overly optimistic ,I think he really felt like Glavins could get out of the 5th. I didn’t.

By Shamus Thacker

May 26, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

Been away lots lately, but, after reading this blog, I know every single thing there is to know about the Bravos.

Except one.

Y’all tell me what it is… lol

By Shamus Thacker

May 26, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

I fought the law, and the law won…

By geauxbraves2000

May 26, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

Good morning all.

Without further adieu, here’s to my Dad. 20+ years in the Navy, Chief Petty Officer, all around great man. I sure do miss him. I love you Dad.

Happy Memorial Day to everyone, including the veterans, and big hearty thank you to every one of you. Without the brave men and women, this country would not be where it is today. We all have our opinion on politics, wars and religion, but because of them, we can.

How about a win today Bravos!

Geaux Braves!!

By McFann

May 26, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

It was only 77 degrees at the Park yesterday. Gonna be in the low 80’s today…

After that bad game yesterday, we cann take consolation in the fact that Micah Owings didn’t record a hit.

Happy Memorial Day! Support the troops!!

By JerseyGil

May 26, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

LEWGood Morning to you Dude…WOW what a weekend here in the east WHEATHER WISE..well there not TOMATOES LIKE JERSEY TOMATOES…

By Shamus Thacker

May 26, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Maters grow in Jersey?

By Stephen

May 26, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Any news on Chipper, Soriano?

By cityofdecatur

May 26, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

Jersey Tomatoes are the best something in the air there LOL (something humans can’t breathe but tomatoes love)

By JerseyGil

May 26, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

After 38 year today i received an email of My Company Comander of the 101 th Airborne Div, Charley co 1/506. that My Name was put in the roster in his web side….My name was ommited because i served six month in the 9th Inf and six month with the 101th…Good news…thanks…if you google to the 1/506 you can see Pic of fellow soldiers from 1968-1972. Back to baseball…sorry but this was a good new and i have to share with you guys a day like today. GO BRAVOS….TO COMPLETE MY DAY GET ME A WINNNNNNNNNNNN

By 234234

May 26, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

Soriano is not being activated for a few more days…Buddy Carlyle has been activated…someone was DFA’d but I can’t tell you who…I know but I will let DOB tell you…

By FloridaBrave

May 26, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

Chris Resop DFA’d; Buddy Carlyle activated.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s in lineup, but Kotsay took his place on the back brigade today (only one sore back per day, please, folks).

Before the red flags start flying, let me say after talking to Kotsay, it really does sound like more a case of being smart and cautious, he’s walking around fine, but after being out there all day yesterday and playing every day for a while, he’s finally had enough tightness in his surgically repaired back to feel like he needed to tell Bobby during BP today that it’d probably be wise to rest him today.

Had trouble completing his swing, much like Chipper did yesterday. But Kotsay didn’t have his back lock up on him or anything. Just sore. And he said no, it’s not in the same spot where they did the surgery.

As for Soriano, he’s still got a little soreness in that elbow, but says he doesn’t think it’s going to bother him. Hey, I’m like most of you, that doesn’t sound great, but … it is what it is.

He’s supposed to throw a bullpen tomorrow, then they’ll decide whether to activate him.

They’re about to make a move at 12:30, but really not sure what it’s gonna be. I did see Resop on the phone outside the clubhouse just now as we were leaving, but that doesn’t necessarily mean anything.

I’ll let you know soon as I hear.

When I talked to Bobby 30 minutes ago, they still hadn’t decided, or Smoltz hadn’t decided, if he’d be activated now, or after pitching in another minor league game, or after just facing hitters here. Smoltz again didn’t come out to talk to us.

By P-Town Brave

May 26, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

Lineup for Today

1. Y Escobar, SS .307 4 22
   
2. K Johnson, 2B .299 5 22
   
3. C Jones, 3B .417 12 35
   
4. M Teixeira, 1B .262 5 27
   
5. B McCann, C .337 8 31
   
6. J Francoeur, RF .263 5 32
   
7. G Norton, LF .158 0 3
   
8. G Blanco, CF .277 0 7
   
9. J Jurrjens, P .105 0 0
   

By AthensBravesFan

May 26, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

Bill Shanks of The Braves Show is reporting that Chris Resop has been designated for assignment. Resop has talent. I wish he could stay in the organization.

By FloridaBrave

May 26, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s back in the lineup and Kotsay’s a late scratch(back). Blanco starts in CF and Norton in LF.

By SeattleBravesFan

May 26, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

I want to echo the sentiments of johnny 99. faithful reader but i don’t comment much either. love the news and insight DOB provides us. but I would be foolish to think that DOB owes me an explanation or commentary on every little thing that happens in Bravesland. The season is a grind, 162 games. Decisions are made based the concept of a long season.

Come on guys, this is a first rate blog and the best place to go for Braves insight and commentary. DOB is great at what he does. I’m gonna leave the coaching, playing and reporting up to the professionals and just enjoy what transpires.

Keep up the great work DOB.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

By the way, Braves are 0-4 with Chipper out of lineup, 27-19 with him in it.

By SeattleBravesFan

May 26, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

P.S. Don’t let the haters bring it down DOB, for those of us not fortunate enough to live in the south and lost TBS games this year. You provide the insight that we don’t get. I look forward each day to seeing what is new and what you have to add.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Resop designated for assignment, Carlyle activated from DL. The way Resop’s going, not definite that he’d get claimed off waivers. But we’ll see, Braves are probably trying to trade him for something…

SeattleBravesFan: Thanks. And don’t worry, they’ll absolutely never bring it down, try as a bitter few might.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

By the way, activating Carlyle might make it make it less likely the Braves would call up Charlie Morton to start if Campillo’s blisters prevent him (Campillo) from starting Thursday.

Then again, Carlyle hasn’t pitched in a while, so I don’t know that they’d want to throw him into that start.

I talked to Campillo this morning and he said he’s doing better and that he’ll be able to start the game. We shall see.

By Mac

May 26, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

Anything to get rid of Poser… but what happened to Soriano?

By Tomas

May 26, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

Carlyle, why? I hope he’ll be sent down tomorrow.

By 234234

May 26, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

Mac: Now if we can get rid of you and your uninformative nonsense…things will be good..

By geauxbraves2000

May 26, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

Need to get to Mr Webb early and often, if he settles in, it could be a long day for the offense.

If they don’t get to him though, JJJ can hang with him, and this could be a beaut of a pitcher’s battle.

Geaux Braves!!

By etownbrave

May 26, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Wonderful tribute to military in pregame ceremonies. We should honor our troops daily. In memory of my Dad who served in Korea and has been gone now just past 5 years. God bless our troops!

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

mac, i just wrote about Soriano’s situation. read up a few posts.

By N8

May 26, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

“It would’ve been nice to pair up a Resop with PENA and see if that could’ve got MADDUX”

Why not Hampton and Norton? Hell, with THAT combination, they might even throw in Peavy.

As for the Marlins? How’s the old saying go? “Never let em’ see you coming?”

It appears that even though the Marlins are leading the division, and just swept the team that has taken 2 of 3 from the Braves, that some STILL don’t see them coming.

Just the way the Marlins would prefer it, is my guess.

By Martin From Oakland,CA

May 26, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

This trade will happen by the All-Star Break or earlier:

The Braves Get: SP Greg Maddux, OF Brian Giles

The Padres Get: CF Jordan Schafer, OF Matt Diaz

Remember who told you first!

By N8

May 26, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

JJJ is “up” with a lot of pitches so far. He better find the lower part of the zone and soon, or it will be a short day for him.

By Original Jon

May 26, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

Martin From Oakland Yeah, if that trade happens, I will remember where I heard it first, from Dayn Perry, not you.

By Murphy

May 26, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

Martin,

Why would we want Brian Giles? Why? He has been marginal at best for a couple of years now.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

Helluva hang-tough at-bat for Hoss, and you KNOW things are going his way when he gets that blooper in there for a hit.

By Dutchie

May 26, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

N8 is ‘down’ with his comments early again today. Let’s hope JJ will get him ‘up’:)

By rlpmetro

May 26, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

I guess N8 was watching a different first inning than I was. I thought JJJ pitched a good first outside of the 4 pitch walk. First hitter he got on the first pitch, a K, and a fly out to shallow left. A good inning by my book and not too many pitches.

By N8

May 26, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

It appears as though Webb’s pitches are up too, huh?

By 3

May 26, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Brian Giles? Another lefty? Great! As if the Bravos didn’t have enough problems beating left handed pitchers

By JerseyGil

May 26, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

BRANDON WHO?….WAY TO GO TEX

By McFann

May 26, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

A strike out? Dang…

.321 (with RISP)

By Marc

May 26, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

Martin From Oakland,CA:

Way to rip off Dayn Perry’s idea and claim it as your own.

By Josh

May 26, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

At first glance (for me at least) Schafer & Diaz seems a little high of price to pay for 1/3 of a season of Giles & Maddux, but I guess Schafer’s value is down right now because of the PED situation. If Kotsay continues to play like he is now, he could easily hold the fort down a few more seasons until Gorkys is ready. Giles may not have the power numbers he used to, but consider the stadium he’s playing half his games in. He was a .299/.374/.496 hitter on the road last year. Wish he hit lefties a little better but he’s not awful against them, just not much power.

By JerseyGil

May 26, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

BRINGING ON…..SANTANA…WEBB….WE CAN HIT YOU…..

By N8

May 26, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

The strike out on the change up was a pitch that wa UP.

The pitch that Tracy HAMMERED just foul, was UP.

He did a nice job of getting through the inning without anything bad happening.

Whaddya know? That full count pitch to Schneider was UP. Hmmm. Guess I’m an A-hole for having my eyes open, huh? On the other hand, the pitch Tex hit for a double was up as well, but it was on the outer half. Not a horrible pitch.

Sometimes pitchers get away with mistakes, and sometimes bad things happen on great pitches.

You guys are just LOOKING for me to be negative, aren’t you?

I did NOTHING more than point out a fact, and I’m an azz. Gotta love it.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

Attaboy, ol’ Glass 4/5ths Empty.

Man, you must be a motivational speaker? Am I right?

On second thought, please don’t answer that. It’ll be more of the “my life is sunshine but I just try to make everyone on the blog miserable” tripe.

By Coach Smith

May 26, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

N8

Why do you act like it is going to break the bank to get MADDUX?

Padres could use PENA at catcher I’m sure…and many teams will give a reliever who can throw 96-97 mph a chance….

They are out of it, MADDUX is at the end and has a no trade clause..they ain’t gonna get much for him…

MLBTRADERUMMORS said it would most likely take the Braves ONE “B” level prospect to get him…so why not PENA and RESOP?

Not saying that would happen but it is not as far out of the question as you seem to be implying

By Coach Smith

May 26, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

That was GREED that cost us that run…

2 outs, First base open, pitcher on deck….

Maybe try and walk the guy to get the pitcher and most likely it would still be 2-0 NOT 2-1

But instead we go for the whole “let’s get this guy and we’ll have WEBB lead off next inning”

Seems like that kind of thing happens to the Braves alot

By Martin From Oakland,CA

May 26, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

guys i added matt diaz so its my idea! haha! ok i guess dayn perry said it..but give me some credit for adding matt diaz

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Just doing the scouting box for Brewers, and was curious about Gagne’s numbers lately.

In his past five games, he’s allowed 10 hits, seven earned runs and nine walks with ONE strikeout in 5-2/3 innings. An 11.12 ERA and .385 opponents’ average in that heinous stretch, including two earned runs allowed three times in those five games.

By N8

May 26, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith

Since Resop was just DFA, why not just claim him? If the Padres want him.

If the Padres are smart, they’ll hang on to Maddux for another month or so, and let the bidding begin.

To my knowledge Maddux doesn’t have a full no trade clause, and even if he did, do you think he REALLY would turn down one more opportunity to go to a contender (any contender)?

There will be a minimum of 4 or 5 teams “interested” in Maddux. Believe me, the offers will be better than Pena and Resop.

But if you wanna think that another team is gonna take our crap that’s not good enough for OUR roster, as trade bait for a future HOF, that can still help, put your homer hat on and go stand in the corner.

I’d ask DOB if he thinks Resop and Pena for Maddux is a reasonable trade, but he’s working.

By keylargo

May 26, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

You have to give Blanco credit for getting hits against two very good pitchers the first time he saw either. Triple of Johnson and single against Webb.

By Dutchie

May 26, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Braves have got a good eye on the quality Webb pitches so far. Let’s keep it up guys!

And see…..we can bunt! :)

Go Braves!

By Coach Smith

May 26, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

DOB

Is GAGNE going to still be on the DL for the BRAVES’ series against them?

By ncgary

May 26, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

well that ought to send n8 packin phillies sk8 land

By A-ville Ranger

May 26, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Man Gag-me’s really gone in the crapper,those numbers are indeed of a heinous nature.Reynolds broke the most basic rule,if they give you an out…take it.Kelly looks similar to Chipper at the plate but he lacks the recognition and comfort level that lets Jones keep jones’n.Beating Webb after beating Johnson and Santana would be a damn impressive couple of weeks.

By geauxbraves2000

May 26, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

Have a day Tex, WTG!!

Geaux Braves!!

By JerseyGil

May 26, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Mac forgot who was running…first pitch swinging…wow…mac you pitcher was ruuning, get him a break

By Coach Smith

May 26, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

N8

I’m pretty sure those comments that included RESOP were BEFORE the news that he was DFA’d….

I guess we’ll just disagree on PENA because I think he is much more than “CRAP”

And if the website rummor mills are true…MADDUX DOES have a full no trade clause and has said that the Braves are one of the teams he’d go to

Yes he is a future hall of famer BUT his age, contract, and own interests are going to make it harder for the Padres to get as much for him

Teams don’t give up top of the line prospects for 42 year old 2-month pitchers especially to a team that is going to be in fire sale mode

By Dutchie

May 26, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

How good an AB was thát by Chipper……

And that Tex-guy, not bad either:)

Go Braves!!

By N8

May 26, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith

Your 1:46 post is ridiculous. How dare you question a decision by Bobby Cox to be greedy and want the pitcher leading off the next inning. He’s a HOF manager, who are you?

Watch yourself, Bobby can’t be questioned, without your sanity being called into play.

Besides, the decision to go after the 8th place hitter wasn’t as bad as the location of JJJ’s pitch (pssst. It was UP).

But lucky enough (I now believe in luck), we caught Webb on an off day, and have not missed his mistakes. Earlier in the year NEITHER of those Tex hits happens.

By Chop Chop

May 26, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

We’ve got this game in the bag, boys.

By eric the elder

May 26, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

Yunel and Kelly almost messed up that popup that would have cost a couple runs.

Yunel doesn’t have Pena to translate “I got it,” and I guess Blanco in center doesn’t speak Spanish.

By Jeff321

May 26, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

Do the Braves have anyone in the minors that can hit and play the outfield right now? Because I think its time to cut Matt Diaz loose. With that said, I was a big supporter last year and part of this one. But, things change and Mr. Diaz doesn’t have a clue.

By TJ

May 26, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Since Resop was just DFA, why not just claim him? If the Padres want him.

Yeah, as I understand it (which may not be correct), the Pads, as the NL team with the worst record, would have first choice on Pena… so if they want him, he’s theirs. No need to trade for him.

I think Maddux could be had for a modest prospect (maybe a Diory Hernandez type, or less). But I also think it’s too early to make any deals. As long as we’re keeping our heads above water, better to wait so we can better determine what our needs really are.

By N8

May 26, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith

I wasn’t referring to Pena when I said crap. It was purely directed at Resop.

Although you are correct about the “timing” of the Resop DFA situation, it wasn’t gonna take a rocket scientist to realize that Resop (out of options I believe) wasn’t gonna STAY when the big 3 in the pen start returning.

Just using common sense I guess.

If I’m wrong about Maddux, I’m not afraid to admit it. I thought I had read he had a “limited” no-trade clause (naming the teams he WOULDN’T accept a trade to). Sure he is 42 years old, but take away the 9 runs in 7 inning allowed in one outing and his ERA is under 3.00 for the year.

It’ll take more than a “b” level prospect to get him, if more than 3 teams are involved (which they will be, IMO).

I just think it’s gonna take more than Resop and Pena.

If anybody is paying attention, JJJ’s pitches were down that inning and he “looked” much more in control. The first hit of the last inning, was a bloop on a low and away change-up that the hitter just stuck out the bat and made contact.

So, since you all thought I was being negative about him earlier, it’s only fair to point out, he seems to have it under control now.

Gotta hand it to the Braves for taking advantage of the opportunities against Webb. But if the Braves were greedy going after the 8th place hitter that inning, the D-Backs were greedy going for the out at 3rd base on the bunt (a good throw doesn’t even get Norton). If they take the out at 1B, the game is different.

But with the Braves having 5 runs on the board and JJJ’s minuscule ERA at home, one has to like their chances.

BEAUTIFUL bunt by Blanco. Well done.

By Coach Smith

May 26, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

N8

LOL…Yeah Questioning COX can be hazardous to your health can’t it!

I love him overall BUT…sometimes it can seem that common sense eludes him

Still overall it is hard to argue with his results

By N8

May 26, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

“well that ought to send n8 packin phillies sk8 land”

What the hell is that supposed to mean?

I’m sure it was funny, though. Good job.

By Dutchie

May 26, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

wow………… Gregor!

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

No, actually, we don’t “gotta love it.”

By TJ

May 26, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Yunel doesn’t have Pena to translate “I got it,” and I guess Blanco in center doesn’t speak Spanish.

Well done, Eric.

By Dutchie

May 26, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

@chop chop

Game in the bag? Which game are you watching? Webb has done nothing wrong so far. In fact, he’s done verry well. 7 K’s through 3, that’s dynamite.

Let’s just keep it tight guys. Work on this 4 run cushon now.

Go Braves!

By Student's t

May 26, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Hi folks! I’ve been lurking all season so I thought I’d say hello. I’ve been a Braves fan since 1973 when I moved to Atlanta fresh out of college, and supported them through the lean years (Pat Rocket at SS, anyone?) I’m old enough to have seen Ted Williams play (in Yankee Stadium, circa 1959; he popped up pinch-hitting) and still young enough to enjoy driving up to Rome with my gal Judy to check on the prospects like Heyward.

So, we need three starters for the post-season. Huddy, Jair, and (dare I whisper his name): Mile Hampton!

— S.t.

By jrjags

May 26, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Has anyone noticed that Jurrjen’s velocity is down today? He is consistently in the upper 80s and occasionally 90-91 instead of the usual 93-94.

By Braveheart

May 26, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

The Braves have been trying to trade Pena for months ……. obviously, to no avail. Why then do any of you think he is a valuable bargaining chip that will get anything of value in return? Get over it already. Decent bat, no power, no position, pitchers don’t like pitching to him, not the quickest cat. The Braves had to DFA him because no one was trying to give anything of any value for Pena. Unless, for some reason, you think Escobar is gonna turn into Dennis Rodman overnight and you need Pena to be his Jack Haley, there is no need for Pena. Escobar seemed to do just fine last season without Pena around.

By keylargo

May 26, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

TJ

Once a player is DFAed, the team has 10 days to trade, waive, or release him. That’s what happened with Norton and why the Braves did not claim him on waivers. If the player clears waivers, then he can be sent to the minors.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

Jurrjens BIG strikeout of Young there with two on. Young’s killed Braves past couple years with long balls. Jurrjens is cranking it up when needed.

By N8

May 26, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

“No, actually, we don’t “gotta love it.””

Apparently, my posts are like cleavage and an eclipse, huh?

By Dan

May 26, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

Hey McFann,

Thought you were going to stop posting 3B-Mac’s RISP ave. once he starting hitting his weight in that situation. I believe he passed his weight….not by much, but still over. :) lol.

Lets get this win today.

By keylargo

May 26, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

TJ

Once a player is DFAed, the team has 10 days to trade, waive or release the player. If the player is waived and not claimed, he can be sent to the minors.

By BA

May 26, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

Hey h8, wonder what the score would be with Tex hitting sixth? Brilliant.

By radoncbravesfan

May 26, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

JJ is a gamer. He and BMac seem to work well together in tight situations. Even when his stuff isn’t the best, he battles, adjusts, and competes. Fun to watch a well called and pitched game.

By Martin From Oakland,CA

May 26, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

blanco does speak spanish..he is from venezuela! and dotn they have cadahia and prado to interpret also..gotay speaks spanish too!

By keylargo

May 26, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

TJ

When a player is DFA, the team has 10 days to trade, waive or release him. If not claimed, he can be sent to the minors.

By TJ

May 26, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

keylargo, you’re right… like I said, wasn’t sure. Thanks.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

In six-day span, Braves will have won games against former Cy Young Award winners Johan Santana, Randy Johnson and Brandon Webb.

First time Webb’s given up 10 hits since July 15. 2007.

By albanian braves fan

May 26, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

obrien quote: “my life is sunshine”.

actually, on reflection, life is moonshine. probably.

By MAV

May 26, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

I couldn’t agree with you more about Pena. He was not exactly valuable to the ballclub if his only kob is translating for Escobar. Good bye and good riddance. Let him be some other teams third or fourth string catcher.

By Random

May 26, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith: “That was GREED that cost us that run…

“2 outs, First base open, pitcher on deck….

“Maybe try and walk the guy to get the pitcher and most likely it would still be 2-0 NOT 2-1

“But instead we go for the whole “let’s get this guy and we’ll have WEBB lead off next inning””

That’s some bizarro-world definition of “greed”.

With two out, it doesn’t matter if first base is open wnen you’re pitching to the number 8 batter.

An intentional walk in that situation does not increase your chances of getting a force out — this isn’t T-ball.

What it says is that you don’t think you can get the guy out — the number 8 hitter?!?

The Braves were saying “Let’s get this guy ‘cause we know we can get this guy” — that’s all.

Maybe you walk Barry Bonds or Chipper in that sitch, but not the number 8 hitter.

By N8

May 26, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

BA

“Hey h8, wonder what the score would be with Tex hitting sixth? Brilliant.”

Well, considering that the person that I wanted to “replace” him in the clean-up spot while he was struggling, was Brian McCann, I think we’d be doing just fine. Who knows? Maybe B-Mac hits a slam instead of a broken bat single, right?

Considering that in the past 28 games, McCann is 31 for 80 (.388) with 3 HR and 19 RBI, and in the same span, Tex is 21 for 81 (.259) with 1 HR and 10 RBI, my guess is that the previous 28 games before today’s, might have gone better.

Goes both ways, right?

Today is a good day for me people.

The Braves are winning, and my “eye” for where JJJ’s pitches were early in the game were DEAD ON. Like it or not people, I wasn’t ripping him. Just pointing out that his pitches looked to be UP IN THE ZONE, and they were.

I saw it, Boog saw it, Simpson saw it, and Bobby saw it. Before a 5-3 lead could become a deficit, Bobby got him out of there.

If only he had done the same thing with Tommy yesterday before the slam, that game might have been different.

Like I said. Nice to know I was right, AND still appear to be on the way to a Braves victory. Wouldn’t want you people to think that I actually root for things to go bad, so I can be correct.

Braveheart

Well said at 2:30.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

Francoeur has looked completely overmatched against Webb and Scherzer….

Tex would be doing great if Braves only played in day games: Dude’s hitting .365 with eight doubles, three homers and 17 RBI in 17 day games.

By McFann

May 26, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Dan, he passed his weight a couple weeks ago (.235), but I kept it up. It’s down to .309 today.

The thing’s been broken for a while, but I’m not kidding—before McCann led off that inning, I posted, “C’mon, Brian! 13 games!”, and then he homered!

But he’s left six men on and struck out twice! Yikes!

radoncbravesfan—

Agreed!

By Ray

May 26, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

DOB, I think some people in this blog make hyperbolic incendiary remarks just to get you excited. Your stoicism in the face of antagonistic posts is applauded. I wonder how many people understand that you have to stay in at least modest favor of the team you write about in order to have continued unfettered access to the invaluable, candid info. you deliver to us all. How long do you think press secretary Dana Parino would last if she continuously railed against the Bush administration to the press? DOB, you have on many occasions raised an eyebrow to moves Bobby has made and made no secret of it here. Keep up the good work.

Love getting off a plane, coming home with a bout of jet lag, cracking open a beer, turning on the baseball ticket, and seeing the Braves taking care of business against arguably the league’s best pitcher.

And still—STILL—N8 is nit picking on the little pecadillos. Dude, we just won a game against hall of famer Randy Johnson (a lefty, no less!!) and today we lit up Webb.

Oh and taking Glavine out of yesterday’s game would have been premature. There are circumstances in which a pitcher clearly has run out of gas and can’t continue. Glavine wasn’t getting the corners and was certainly having an off day. That being said: stubborn as a mule, Glavine had given up ONE grand slam his entire career and knows better than anyone how to pitch out of jams. He made a mistake with a pitch that got too much of the plate, but that’s baseball.

PS - Can we all pitch in to find Chipper a baby sitter for his kids? If it’s all the same to him, I’d rather he didn’t do anything that aggravates his back. Could he just be entombed in an airtight capsule next to his rookie card in between games?

Oh, and thanks to those of you who read my blog on Chipper’s career this week. Got a lot of great comments. I am lucky enough to be immune to the vitriol I see here on a daily basis.

By TJ

May 26, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Not only was JJ “up” with his location, but his velocity was down too. That’s okay… he battled through. But clearly didn’t have his best stuff.

Blanco keeps scoring points with great at bats, even if he’s facing Cy Young himself. 3 hits and 4 times on base today against Webb and Scherzer? Unbelievable.

By N8

May 26, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

BA

Before you rag on me for saying we could have done “better” in the past 28 games, I realize that the Braves are 17-11 in those 28 games.

But those 28 games include 12 road games that they went 3-9 in.

In those 12 road games, Tex went 9 for 32 (.281) with 4 RBI. B-Mac went 12-40 (.300) with 7 RBI.

So I ask you, WITHOUT B-Mac “protecting” him, how would Tex be doing?

By Dan

May 26, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

Hey McFann,
I was just joking about his weight with you. I don’t mind seeing updates on his RISP ave. at all. BTW. Very nice HR to extend his hitting streak.

N8 i agree… very short leash (i think) with JJJ, But not the case with Glavine. Which i believe JJJ did deserve to face 1 more batter while Glavine didn’t. IMO

By Random

May 26, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

Martin From Oakland,CA: “This trade will happen by the All-Star Break or earlier … “

No way — absolutely no way.

By Mark in PA

May 26, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

Wow! What happened to the open discourse and free exchange of ideas on this blog? It appears it has been replaced with open season on N8!

His original question, if you go back and look at it, was a valid one. I was wondering the same thing—why is Cox leaving Tommy out there? Didn’t everyone see the big hit coming that inning while while Glavine continued to labor? Anybody?

DOB, I do love reading this blog, and while I appreciate the need to fire off a shot or two at wayward bloggers from time to time, I’d advise caution in “firing all guns” at a someone, unless you really don’t want them to contribute again. There are a large number of folks here who will follow your lead.

Here’s hoping we can get back to the regular jabs and crosses and away from the thermonuclear exchanges.

Happy Memorial Day. Dwelling on my namesake- Maj. Taylor Johnson, USA, from Joaquin, TX, died 28 Jan 66.

By Cherokee

May 26, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

Looks goo. Great home stand. Let’s go guys on the road trip.

By minookadawg

May 26, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

Jersey Gil, thanks for your service. My uncle is also a Vietnam Veteran. I agree with you 100% about the significance and meaning of MEMORIAL DAY. If you were offended by the way I phrased some of my thoughts, then I apologize. I see where you’re coming from, but it was not my intention to detract from the meaning of today. I respect your opinion and appreciate your input.

Take care.

By non

May 26, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

is acosta still the closer?

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

Forgot to mention earlier, Bobby said Gonzalez could go rehab at either Mississippi or Richmond, not determined yet. Sounds like they’re thinking a week to two weeks he’ll be on his rehab assignment.

He’s not getting checked by Braves doctor until Tuesday, because of the holiday. Then he’ll go out on rehab while team’s on road.

Smoltz, Soriano and Hampton all are going with team to Milwaukee.

By THB

May 26, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

Braves looking gooood today even with Jurrjens not having his best stuff.

By Chop Chop

May 26, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

N8,

Fortunately, a lineup is the result of the sum of its parts, not the result of individuals independent of one another. What would Chipper do if he didn’t have Escobar, Tex, or McCann in the lineup? He’d probably be Atlanta’s better version of the late 1990s/early 2000s Kansas City Royal Mike Sweeney.

Tex benefits from McCann being in the lineup. McCann benefits from having a guy with four 30-HR/100 RBI seasons hitting in front of him. It’s the circle of life or some s**. Just enjoy the game.

Happy Memorial Day to my fellow vets out there…and everyone else.

By A-ville Ranger

May 26, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Santana,Johnson and now Webb,that’s a fair trio of pitchers.To me there’s no better measure of a team’s ability to perform in the post season than beating the best pitchers.If we can make the playoffs reasonably healthy, this team could do some damage.I thought the same thing last year though…we’ll see.

By Moby Grape

May 26, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

The Braves are winning, and my “eye” for where JJJ’s pitches were early in the game were DEAD ON. Like it or not people, I wasn’t ripping him. Just pointing out that his pitches looked to be UP IN THE ZONE, and they were.N8

yeah he was up a good bit, very few GBOs. Too bad he couldn’t hold on for the win. ChopChop you shouldn’t be tempting fate like that my man. BB gods might get mad though it looks like they might let you slide this time. :-)

By McFann

May 26, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Good numbers for BMac in your 3:31, Neight.

No prob, Dan. I’ll keep ya posted on the AVG with RISP. And yeah, nice homer. (Though if you take that away, pretty rotten day for 3BMac.)

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Non, they haven’t had a one-man “closer” for some time now. It’s been by committee, depending upon matchups.

Acosta sure looked tough today, didn’t he? He’s having a solid season, after getting roughed up in his first appearance.

By McFann

May 26, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

Is this thing broken again?

By FloridaBrave

May 26, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

I just read JJ had a couple of blisters. Is that true, DOB?

By Greg in TN

May 26, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

Afternoon lads and lasses…

And Happy Memorial Day to everyone. If there are any denizens out there who have had loved ones that have made the ultimate sacrifice for this nation, a heartfelt thank you from this corner of the blog.

TNRON, hate to have had to miss the Kodak moment with Smoltz on Saturday night, but circumstances kept me from making the trip. I did catch that foul heading your way (the Mrs and I were in 113 right behind the dugout) and actually had a foul ball off the bat of Quentin Davis land at my feet that we were able to snag.

Folks you can’t keep a good team down, and although a split with the Snakes isn’t as good as taking the series or even better, a sweep, I’ll take it. I know the mets Arizona and you are no mets.

A prudent day off for Mark Kotsay today, resting the back and keeping problems from biting he and the team in the keister down the road. His defense has been just fine in center thankyouverymuch, and he’s about 14 points over where I thought he’d be in terms of getting back into the swing of things at the plate. He’s had some very timely hits thus far and has really been solid in my eyes.

Welcome back to the lineup, Offensive Assassin. Chipper goes one-for-three after his day off. Tex found his stride at the plate today and Gregor Blanco (really like his first name) went three-for-three.

Yunel has settled in at lead-off and sets the table very well for , Chipper and Tex.

Folks a 7-2 homestand does a lot to cure ills. The team flew into town at .500 and now Delta is taking them to the land of cheese and beer four games above. No better time to start improving that road record than a road trip against the lads of lager and the lads of WKRP.

By BA

May 26, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

So Soriano and Smoltz are going because they’re getting activated? Is Hampton going because he’s such a vag that the Braves aren’t even thinking rehab yet?

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

Also: Jurrjens has a blister on his right thumb, prevented him from throwing his sinker today for most of the game.

Bobby wanted to get him out both for that reason and, he said, because he’s young and already has thrown a lot of innings and they want to be careful with Jurrjens.

By BA

May 26, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

The difference between taking Glavine out early and Jurrgens today? Jurrgens, no doubt a spectacular young pitcher, has not won 300 games. H8, face it, Tex is doing what all of us said he would, at about the time DOB told us he would. I think a lot of folks here suffer from post traumatic Andruw syndrome. If Tex could drive in better than a run a day for two months at the end of last year, you had to figure he would come around.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

Posted this (and the Jurrjens blister thing) right after I got back from clubhouse, but didn’t show up on the blog. For whatever reason I’ve been having probablems all day with the blog and getting comments up.

Anyway: Smoltz has flu symptoms and isn’t going to start out on the trip, according to Bobby. He’ll stay here and might make a rehab appearance at Rome, then join Braves later in trip.

By McFann

May 26, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

Hey, no prob, Dan. (I suppose…; ) ) I’ll keep you posted on his AVG with RISP as often as possible.

And yeah, nice homer to extend the streak. (Though if you take that away, it was a kinda rotten day at the plate for Brian.)

Neight—

Great numbers on 3BMac in your 3:31!

(Sorry for the delay, but the thing was “broken” again.)

By Greg in TN

May 26, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

Oops, I had a feeling using less than and greater than symbols wouldn’t work, but that was after I clicked post. My original thought for the Yunel paragraph, denizens was…

Yunel has settled in at lead-off and sets the table very well for (insert two-hole hitter here), Chipper and Tex.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

Backs and blisters rank just behind The Road as kryptonite for these Bravos.

By Kev

May 26, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

IF its true that Jair has blisters problems….the Braves have to order JUMBO size PICKLE JUICE for the starters…what the heck?? are the Blisters like viruses and stuff…contagious,maybe?? check the clubhouse for evidence DOB…

By BA

May 26, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

I think h8 has a promising future on the Marlins blog. Seems to be the only team he really has anything positive to say about. Maybe he could blog about batting Uggla sixth!

By JEB

May 26, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

Time to pull out the Super Glue to all of these blisters!

Load up the massage therapists and chiropractors for this road trip!

By geauxbraves2000

May 26, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

Backs and blisters and pecs, oh my.

Nice win today against a tough pitcher, excellent approach by the offense. Hopefully they can take the 8-3 momentum with them on the road.

Okay, have a nice day all, happy Memorial Day.

Geaux Braves!!

By McBlister

May 26, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

DOB,be careful down there………YOU could be the next with a BLISTERRR!!!…you would go on the DL, 2 to 4 weeks and Carroll will be called up from AAA…after you make a couple of Rehab Assignments on Chop Chicks Blog and all goes well, you would be activated on the braves next homestand ..when you come back,we will DFA either Sniper-69,Amazins08 or Coach(lol)…

By H-Ram

May 26, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

The Power of Chipper COMPELS YOU BLISTERs!!!!!!!!!!!

By LivininAL

May 26, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

Braves are playing finally paying Baseball, I mean the little things to win like moving runners getting bunts down, hitting with runners on and it is refreshing! Go Braves

By THB

May 26, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

Anybody know anything about Jeremy Guthrie? He did well in 26 starts last year, posting a 3.70 ERA and this year a 3.62 ERA. Possible trade candidate? Maybe Lillibridge, B.Jones, and Jeff Locke?

By THB

May 26, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this

What would it take to get Rich Hill?

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

Got to love Kelly Johnson, whose Texas swagger comes out whenever he’s going well:

“We have all the potential in the world to be the best team in the league,” said Johnson, who extended his hitting streak to 12 games. “We showed it here. Now we’ve just got to carry it over to the road.”

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

Wish I could share with you folks a long e-mail I just got from Greg Hope, an Army lieutenant stationed in Iraq. But I don’t think he intended for me to do that.

So I’ll just tell you, he’s a huge Braves fan who got that way from his dad, a Jonesboro native and former Crackers fan who consider the day they announced the Braves were moving to Atlanta to be the second-best day of his life, behind only his wedding day.

Greg, a proverbial tip of the cap to you. No matter what any of us thinks about this war, I believe most would agree that among you over there making such incredible sacrifices, are the best and bravest this country has to offer.

We owe a debt of gratitude. A sincere salute, my friend.

Tell all the fellas you referred to, all those Braves fans over there, that we’re going to forward your e-mail to Chipper and a couple of Braves officials.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

H-ram, I just about fell on the pressbox floor laughing when I read your 6:19 post.

By virgilshouse

May 26, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

I feel Poccaroba should be given evry opportunity to make this team.T he days that Buzz Capra starts,Poccaroba should do our catching………….

By CharlieAlphaBravo

May 26, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

Okay, so maybe N8 is sometimes negative just to be negative. But I’m starting to think some of the denizens here disagree with him just to be disagreeable.

Like it or not, he was indeed dead on when he was pointing out JJ’s pitches were up in the zone. So were Webb’s. That homer JJ gave up to Cabrera was like a batting practice pitch. He had a good start, but Coxey was wise to take him out when he did.

Like him or H8 him, N8 is a necessary part of this blog. If we agreed all the time and had no bowl of sadness between us and our tomahawk-colored glasses, this would be a pretty boring place. Let’s admit it… For the most part, we’re all a bunch of homers, and sometimes we need a little pee in our Cheerios.

By SeattleBravesFan

May 26, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

DOB….When is the AJC hiring the poster who goes by N8? Or can you give him a BLUE login so I can scroll to his posts just like I do to yours?

Apparently he has endless time in his days and is very knowledgeable about the game. Very intuitive and has great insight about baseball.

And really, when he gets a life or a job and is on here less I’m not sure I will have the desire to come back as often.

By Coach Smith

May 26, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this

H-Ram

That made me laugh out loud

By Yars

May 26, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

Great win today. AZ is the type of team we will be facing in the playoffs. Was awesome to see that we can beat a pitcher like Webb, one of the elite pitchers in MLB. We can win 2 out of 3 against the Brew Crew, hell maybe even sweep them. No facing Sheets. Is that stadium in Cincy still a launching pad? Anyone know how many HR’s have been hit there so far this season? I would like to see KJ, Frenchy, & Tex up their HR totals this road trip. now playing: she builds quick machines by velvet revolver.

By Tillman, Bob C

May 26, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

Just as long as that Diedier kid catches Niekro’s friggin knuckler so I don’t. Pat Jarvis and George Stone are pains enough.

By CharlieAlphaBravo

May 26, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

Did I say Orlando Cabrera?? Whoops, I meant Hudson.

By Shamus Thacker

May 26, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

If Smoltzie pitches in Rome, it’ll be like Elvis showing up at Bilbo’s Barbecue. Electric it will be!

By Shamus Thacker

May 26, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

My peeless Cheerios are just fine.

By Pete H.

May 26, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

That was a great win today. I finally got MLB.com and got to watch it on my new computer…a little jerky and it failed for about an inning, but on the whole, it beats a poke in the eye with a sharp stick.

DOB: Can you get a message to Bobby? I have an idea that might help on the road. Win the next 22 series or so, and that’ll take care of the road jinx.

H-Ram, that was a great post. I think, however, we can designate Sniper for assignment now. Or better, give him his outright release.

By Marc

May 26, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Any comments from Resop about his being designated?

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this

Marc: No, they didn’t announce it until we were upstairs a half-hour before gametime. Clubhouse closed then, and he obviously didn’t stick around.

By MEB

May 26, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this

No pee for me in my Cheerios! My life is also a lot cheerier when I use the scroll wheel whenever I come across N8.

GOD BLESS OUIR VETERANS!!!

By prattvillenolzfan

May 26, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

HEY DOB

Who do you think the Braves would have to give up to acquire Greinke from the Royals?

If I’m not mistaken (and I usually am…..) he becomes a free agent this year, and I know the Royals would like to get something in return. I know they started the season.

By N8

May 26, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

Mark in PA & CharlieAlphaBravo

Thank you for your “support”. Not necessary, but appreciated, none the less.

BA

“H8, face it, Tex is doing what all of us said he would, at about the time DOB told us he would. I think a lot of folks here suffer from post traumatic Andruw syndrome.”

I don’t have to “face” nothing. Just as you don’t with my posts. Two clashing opinions, nothing more, nothing less.

When Tex was sucking (and he WAS sucking for most of April), I suggested dropping him in the order until he heated back up. THAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN THE END OF IT.

But every other day, you want to bring up how dumb I am for having suggested.

Every 9 or 10 games (or so) when he has a semi-monster day, you wanna chastise me for being so stupid.

I gave you the numbers in the past 28 games (before today), and McCann has CLEARLY put up better numbers than him.

Not sure what part of that you don’t understand.

Have I stated ANYWHERE, other than to try and defend my original point (which was about 5-6 weeks ago), that Tex should NOW be dropped in the order.

if Tex hits 60 frickin homers from NOW until the end of the season. It won’t change my mind that from about the 3rd week of the season, until the last couple of weeks, the team would NOT have suffered had Tex been dropped in the order.

Hell, EVEN HE ADMITS that he always starts slow? Do you think he would have complained? Or do you think he is so damned egotistical as to DEMAND that he remains in the clean-up spot during a time in which he “always struggles” to get going?

My guess is that Tex wouldn’t have had a single problem with it.

But for the next 4 months if you wanna continue to argue about where Tex should have batted until he heated up, back in April, let me know. I’ll even give you my email address so we can send emails to each other on a daily basis trying to convince each other who’s right or wrong.

You’ve poked fun of me in the past for “over-using” the Nick Esasky angle. Fair enough, I have over-used it. But right back at you man. The Tex in the 6-hole comment is SOOOOOOOO April.

Come up with something else. Or don’t.

Either way, I don’t care. I’ll read my own posts 20 or 30 times. So feel free to keep it up….I don’t mind a bit.

I like me.

By prattvillenolzfan

May 26, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

I hate it when I hit enter before I’m done….

I meant to say….

I know the Royals started the season promising, but they have slumped lately….

There’s alot of Royals/Braves connections out there….

By N8

May 26, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

MEB

“My life is also a lot cheerier when I use the scroll wheel whenever I come across N8.”

You know what I love? I love it that you guys cannot, in fact REFUSE to believe that my life is a joy.

Yet more and more of you make comments like the above one. Including DOB calling me a “soul-sucking” something or other.

REALLY? You let a faceless name on a blog “get you down”, and dictate how your day goes?

That is WAY more pathetic than a guy like me getting bent out of shape, and venting ABOUT THE BRAVES on a blog designed for Braves fans to voice their opinions.

Maybe YOU GUYS should look at yourselves, rather than try and judge what kind of “life” I live.

Having said that. MEB has the perfect solution. Use the damn scroll wheel when you see “By N8” followed by a date and a time and usually a 20 paragraph post. My posts aren’t that hard to ignore. Certainly can’t claim that you “accidentally” read one of them, right?

Too funny.

By brian

May 26, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

the Braves will have an overstocked bullpen (how many times have we heard that over the past 15 years?) when and if everyone returns from injury. The Braves will probably carry 12 pitchers which would make the bullpen look like:

Smoltz, Soriano, Gonzalez, Ohman, Boyer, Acosta, and Bennett

That is a strong bullpen which would give us many options. I would wonder whether the Braves will try and move some of the bullpen in trades - like Ring - now before it is imperative that we designate people for assignment who do not have options thus making people available for waivers.

I am sure the Braves are trying to move Resop now but I would be surprised if there are any takers. It is too bad the Braves cannot move some people to reaquire Maddux for the stretch run. As a fifth starter I think he would be superb (Hudson, Glavine, Jurjens, Campillo, and Maddux with JoJo also available when needed). Trouble is we will try and move Ring who San Diego just traded to us.

Wrenn will have to decide whether he will want to make a big addition and thus trade prospects like Lillebridge, Brandon Jones, and one of our good young pitchers, or try to add someone like Maddux from a team that is underachieving and will miss the playoffs.

By prattvillenolzfan

May 26, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

N8

Gotta admit, I don’t always agree with everything you post

BUT I will say this, you always back up your opinion with fact.

Most people have an opinion, but are unable to back it up with fact. Then they get upset when people ask them to back it up with some sort of fact. That’s when the attacks become personal…

One thing I QUICKLY learned during my 18 years of marriage…..

You DAMN well better back up your opinion with fact when arguing……

By SeattleBravesFan

May 26, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

Keep up the good work N8. DOB has already sent me plenty of AJC garb.

I happened to read this post earlier in this blog by you that included this tidbit:

“I’ve said some rude things to people on here. I’ve even attacked back at you when having my azz reamed in the past. BELIEVE ME, I know when I’m being annoying and bringing the “mood” of the blog down. 99.9 percent of the time it’s purposely done.”

Just a little glimpse into a sad little world. What’s going on in your world that you need to be annoying or bring down the mood of people. I mean really? Find a better outlet, go to the gym, run around the block or something. Why do you need to come here and spew. I’m good (and I think most people that read or post here are good) with people challenging bobby cox or wondering why a guy is struggling or questioning the logic of DOB enjoying the latest “insert musician here” CD. But what’s the point of being an a* or an irritant?

By Dan

May 26, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

Hey N8, NOT a brown noser… but i do enjoy reading your comments. Most comments, you speak the truth… and people don’t wanna hear it. They just wanna hear that everything is ok, and nothing is wrong. lol

Keep up the good work.

By Staylost

May 26, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

Lost-Brave

As long as you post with all caps and no paragraphs you will NEVER be taken seriously. If you want to repost your material the proper way, do it, if you continue this diatrabe that no one can comprehend, you will not be taken serious.

By N8 is Gr8

May 26, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

Awh, shuud uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuup!

By JimD

May 26, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

OK, N8, everyone is singing your praises now.

I just want to go on record as saying you annoy the daylights out of me! I skip your posts unless DOB comments on you and I have to go back and read it to see what he is talking about.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

Sorry, N8. We don’t mind your recent avalanche of exclusively snarky posts, or that giant boulder now apparently surgically attached atop your shoulder, but we’re gonna have to ask you to please avoid the fifth-grad scatological references, if that’s not asking too much.

No one enjoys having to remove those parts of your cheery posts.

Thanks.

By the way, I actually used to enjoy a lot of your posts, which were often both insightful and humorous.

Seriously, maybe it’s just because so much of it’s directed at me, but I find it hard to extract good stuff from all the bile recently. And I honestly will try to take the advice you gave someone else, to just skip over your posts if they don’t like it.

But since I really try to at least skim over all the comments, and read most, it’s difficult to force myself to ignore this person’s or that person’s posts. In some cases, it’s like watching the aftermath of a car wreck — can’t turn away.

But I’m going to try.

Carry on.

By Boober Jolly

May 26, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

It seems that many on the blog got into the same ”bad batch” of whatever’s being smoked around here today.I’m not pointing fingers or naming tags but clearly some poeple post with an alias to their alias to defend themselves in third person mode.It’s not a crime,it is kind of weak and cheesy though.

By CharlieAlphaBravo

May 26, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

LOST-BRAVE:

Wow, man. I mean, WOW. That’s some truly headache-inducing stuff. I tried to read your post, but I nearly fainted for to lack of punctuation and lower-case letters.

You think the money “wasted on Hampton” could be put to better use, huh? Okay, well maybe you should post that on a Rockies blog, because we weren’t the ones who signed him. That money was guaranteed to Hampton nearly a decade ago by Colorado, and we traded for him. Did you think we resigned him this year for a gazillion dollars? That would have been a smart move.

ALSO NOTICE THIS BLOG IS IN ALL CAPITALS

Thanks, genius, I wouldn’t have noticed if you didn’t point that out. Also, my nose wouldn’t be bleeding right now.

ALSO I THOUGHT THIS BLOG PAGE WAS FOR BRAVES FAN’S TO TALK ABOUT THE BRAVES, NOT YOUR TIRED OLD LAME SONG;S,AND MUSIC LRYIC’S

Oh, well, if that’s what you thought, then it must be true. I mean, if your flawless grammar and syntax is any indication, then we must’ve been the one’s who were wrong. Our apologies.

You needn’t be worried about being nominated for worst post of the year. By the powers vested in me by the denizens of the Braves/Men In Black blog, I’m going to go ahead and grant you that honor. Surely no one will be able to match the pure, unadulterated stupidity of your post for the rest of this, or any year to come. Any objections??

By Mark in PA

May 26, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

Easy, N8. My post this afternoon was supposed to be against blog shoutdowns; your 8:54 can be read with a pretty strident tone, and the 8:46 to Seattle is just nasty.

Let’s bring it back to baseball. Couple nights ago, you were leaning in favor of trading for Maddux. Still thinking that way? What do you think a fair exchange for him would be?

Me, I’m still thinking Hampton will have a some number of starts in the second half—and that will be, in effect, a trade for a #3/#4 guy without giving anything up.

By N8

May 26, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

SeattleBravesFan

You and DOB read that post wrong.

You are assuming that ALL OF THE TIME (12 months out of the year), that I am on the blog to annoy the hell out of everybody involved.

What was meant by that post, is that when it appears that I’m trying to get under somebody’s skin, it is INTENTIONAL 99.9 percent of the time.

Now, if what I type on the OTHER 245 posts per day that I rattle off, annoys you personally, that is NOT intentional. That is a difference of opinion and blogging style.

You act as though I’ve NEVER had a legitimate question, NEVER typed anything that MANY people have enjoyed or laughed at.

As for the “get a job or a life” comment from before? I don’t have to explain my life or working obligations to you. The bloggers that I email with on occasion know what I’m about, and that’s enough.

But when you’ve got guys like Shaun spewing off things like BAD LUCK, I’m gonna argue with that.

When you’ve got guys claiming “when Smoltz, Soriano and Gonzalez come back…..etc…” I’m gonna challenge that person as to WHY they feel that their won’t be setbacks (like there has been for the first two months of the season.

When DOB dedicates a WHOLE blog to the road/home splits of this team, then rips me a new a-hole for NOT being excited that SAME WEEK for a good home stand, that makes no sense.

If that road/home differential didn’t exsist, then why did he make a big deal about it by pointing it out in the lead-in of one of his blogs.

DOB calls me out about ragging on Tex for starting slow. Oh I see. Because Tex SAYS he ALWAYS starts slow, and because the numbers back it up, I’m supposed to be OK with that?

Yet, when I state that BECAUSE OF THOSE numbers, maybe somebody else should hit clean-up UNTIL Tex heats up, BA decides that that is the dumbest thing ever posted on the blog.

Last week when Glavine had retired 17 hitters in a row in GAME ONE of a double-header, DOB backed Bobby’s decision to pull him early “because it’s a long season” and they don’t want “Tommy to wear down at season’s end”, even though he had only pitched 82 pitches.

But when Glavine clearly doesn’t have “it” (whether it was his own doing or the ump squeezing him), Bobby leaves him out there to give up a slam and throw 102 pitches.

TOTALLY contradicts Bobby’s decision last week. Then when I (with NO SARCASM or ill will intended) ask DOB to explain that to me, he acts as though I’m asking him to swim the English Channel in the middle of a KU Final Four basketball game. AGAIN singling me out and essentially acting as though I have NO REASON to question the great Bobby Cox.

So excuse me for being a little defensive. I’ve been (and will be in the future) a HELLUVA lot more negative than I have the past week or so.

But I forgot, I’m so important, that every other blogger’s life and mood depends on how my posts go.

JimD

Good for you. You think I read EVERYBODY’S posts?

I have about 10 people on here that I stop and see what they have to say.

Some of them I consider “blog friends”. The others are the ones I like to “argue” with, because it becomes a challenging game of “out-doing” each other with stats.

Other than that, I do the same. Read DOB’s posts for updates, and if one of his responses to another blogger intrigue me enough, I’ll back-track to the post being referenced and take a looksy for myself.

I wouldn’t expect anybody else to do the same.

I certainly don’t take myself seriously enough to believe that all of you read every word of my posts, much less, give a rats azz what’s in them if you do read it.

That being said, I’m sure there are a few bloggers that are looking for my posts, as I am theirs.

Feel free to keep on scrolling, I won’t be offended.

The last time I checked, this is DOB’s blg, and it’s centered around the Atlanta Braves.

By Pete H.

May 26, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

The more I watch Chipper, the more I think he’s the best hitter since Gwynn retired. He just always gets a great at-bat. I’m almost always surprised when he doesn’t make good contact.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

OK, Celts only down four despite playing a fairly awful first half. Gonna go watch the rest of this on the big ‘ol TV upstairs now.

By N8

May 26, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this

DOB

I’ll refrain with the fecal references in the future. Though the brown-nosing won’t stop, I’m sure.

“By the way, I actually used to enjoy a lot of your posts, which were often both insightful and humorous.”

That’s too bad, because not much has changed in my attitude/style of blogging. I might be way off, but I don’t feel any more (or less) negative than I’ve been for the 2 years I’ve been a daily blogger year round

“But seriously, maybe just because so much of it’s directed at me, but I can’t see the good through all the bile anymore.”

Really? Have I really singled you out and attacked you? Is that how you feel? If that’s the case, I’ll apologize RIGHT NOW in front of everybody. Got no ego issues with doing that (despite the boulder on my shoulders), NONE!

I’m sorry.

Again, hasn’t seemed to me that I’m any different than I’ve ever been.

I can take your jabs and smart remarks when justified. But I really don’t feel like they’ve been justified lately. The only time anything got remotely “personal” (as personal as blogging with strangers can be), was a few weeks back when the music discussion became “heated” while discussing American Idol and Curt Cobain.

Other than that….it’s all good.

If you were/are trying to get rid of me, it aint’ happening. If you would prefer that I tone it down, I can’t guarantee that I’m gonna do that either.

If you think it’s been personal against you or aimed at you. You’re wrong, but I’ll apologize (again) anyhow, and re-assure that it won’t be.

In fact, I think I have a bigger “case” against you attacking me, than the other way around. But I’ve never taken a word you’ve directed at me (including MANY names) as anything more than compliments, in the sense that you’ve read my posts.

Whether you think so or not, I do STILL enjoy the work you do, and if you can’t tell, I enjoy spending many hours of the day, at all hours of the night, morning and afternoon blogging with fellow Braves fans (and even the Mets and Marlins trolls).

Judging by my last paragraph, I too could use one of the AJC embroidered cloths to wipe my nose off.

Having said ALL OF THAT, you still haven’t answered the question about Glavine. :-)

By Leslie Nielson/Airplane Pilot

May 26, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

Why are we wasting a seat on the plane to Milwaukee for Mike Hampton?

By FJR

May 26, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

The thing about Maddux is that he’s probably the best available starter right now. People are talking about getting Harden and Blanton? Why in God’s name would the A’s trade either away when they’re both pretty cheap and only 1.5 games out of first?

Blanton’s making a paltry 3.7 mill and Harden is making 4.75 mill. In today’s market, that’s dirt cheap. It might be different if the A’s were way out of contention, but I don’t see either getting traded while the A’s are in striking distance.

Chris Young and Jake peavy are both ace quality and injured, they’re not going anywhere.

There just aren’t a lot of guys out there who are towards the end of a contract, making a good amount of money on a team not in contention.

Maddux would only agree to go to a west coast team in contention or teh Braves, I’d imagine. That seriously hurts the Pads chances. That leaves the Dodgers who I don’t really need pitching, the A’s who I don’t see making a deal for a veteran, Arizona who doesn’t need pitching and the Angels who could be in the mix, but I don’t really see it. I don’t think we have to give up more than a B-level prospect. Maybe Josh Anderson or Gorkyz Hernandez? I don’t really know how well regarded any of their people are in CF, but I see Hairston has been struggling and you’d like either one of those guys speed in that vast CF in San Diego.

By N8

May 26, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

Mark in PA

Am I still for Maddux? Sure. Not for the farm though. And it’s gonna take more than Resop and Pena, if you ask me (and you did).

As for Hampton? I actually agree with you (about him giving us SOMETHING later in the year), but I wouldn’t pass up the opportunity to snag Maddux at the right price (for the purpose of strengthening the team AND nostalgia), on the slight possibility of Mike Hampton contributing anything.

Get Maddux, if Hampton contributes….BONUS.

That being said, if the Padres are asking too much, I’d look for other avenues (younger and signed to a reasonable contract for another year or two), to fill the gap.

LOST-BRAVE

THANKYOU. YOU HAVE OFFICIALLY MADE ME NOT LOOK THE BIGGEST HORSES A** ON THE BLOG TODAY. I APPRECIATE IT….KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!!

By mattymose

May 26, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB you like any Yonder Mountain String Band?

By A-ville Rangers

May 26, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

If I may interrupt with a small baseball observation.If the Braves had only split their 14 one run games to date they’d be 33-18 and have the best record in baseball by 2.5 games over TB.I think this bodes well since these things tend to balance out over the course of a season if the team is otherwise strong.Since there are no obvious structural causes that I see,if the team plays as well as they have to date the record should be better percentage wise by the end of the season.

By Section 412

May 26, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

DOB - odd thing I noticed today from my perch in Row 2 of Section 412. Fairly late in the game, I thought I noticed Jeff Porter talking with / working with Tom Glavine down in the dugout. I didn’t think anything about it until after the game, when I was crossing one of the closed streets outside the stadium.

A very cool black Mercedes comes through the barricade, and I said to my buddy that it looked like Glavine driving in street clothes (this is only 5 minutes after the game ended). Then a MARTA cop pulls around and escorts this car away with his lights going.

Did the team go straight to the airport? If so, where might Glavine have been going? This incident, combined with seeing Porter working with Glavine, made we worry.

Are you aware of any physical issues with Tommy that may have arisen today? It honestly could have been nothing, and Glavine could have been going to McDonalds or Walgreens for all I know, but I thought it was odd.

Anyway, great day at the yard, and a great win.

Thanks for your time.

By richbrave

May 26, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this

N8:

It appears that you are displeased by some of the sycophatic b-s which passes for knowledge here. Lighten up bro’. Its just a blog. Have fun.

By FJR

May 26, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

N8,

Who do you see maddux possibly waiving his no-trade clause for? I don’t see the braves having a lot of bidding war competition. Maddux most likely will only go to either a west coast team in contention or the Braves.

The Angles and D-Backs definitely have no need for Maddux. THe Dodgers don’t unless they’re going to send Clayton Kershaw back to the minors, which there is absolutely no indication they are going to do that. Do you really see tha A’s going out and trading for a veteran? Do you see Maddux going to Texas or the Rangers trading for Maddux? Who is left?

Of course all bets are off if Maddux is willing to waive his no-trade clause for more teams, but I really don’t see that happening, why would he?

By Mark T.

May 26, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

Dayn Perry offered up a crazy blockbluster. Maddux and Brian Giles for Jordan Schafer. I would like to add them but not for Schafer. What do you think of this proposed trade?

By A-ville Rangers

May 26, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

N8 Man you take yourself WAY too seriously sometimes.

By JEB

May 26, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

DOB perhaps I have missed this info, but has anyone ever determined what has caused the type injury that Hampten has. How is it he can have a strained pec muscle (just hardly heard of in a pitcher). How long is the normal healing process?? I know we are talking about Hampton here and he is a real mystery when it comes to injuries. Just interested in how this all came about, thanks!

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this

Section 412, Glavine was one of the last 10 or so guys dressing in the clubhouse after the game. I was in a circle of folks talking to McCann (next locker over) and was standing in front of Glavine’s locker when Glavine walked up. Said something to him in passing, then noticed him 15 minutes later as I was waiting for Chipper to come out of the showers (Chipper was the last guy to dress after the game, so there were only a handful of guys left in there, and only a few reporters, which is why I happened to remember Glavine being one of them).

So unless Glavine left in his car in street clothes, then returned and showered and changed back into his street clothes, that wasn’t who you saw in the black Benz.

By N8

May 26, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this

FJR

“Of course all bets are off if Maddux is willing to waive his no-trade clause for more teams, but I really don’t see that happening, why would he?”

Why would he want to stay for the remainder of the year in SD, if the Braves aren’t that interested? Because the guy wants to win, that’s why?

He holds the power. If he wants to come back to Atlanta, I’m sure he’ll wait as long as he can for the Braves to go get him, but if it becomes evident that the Braves don’t want him, I think you’ll see him waive that no-trade clause real quick.

Just a guess. Maybe the guy LOVES it in SD, and doesn’t want to be away from family, thus doesn’t care about winning or losing. But if any of you have watched his recent starts, and have seen him “react” the way he does when he misses on pitches with his little profanity one-liners, I think it’s pretty evident the guy wants to win.

But you are right FJR. The other “west-coast” teams have little to no reason to make a move for him.

**A-ville Rangers

“N8 Man you take yourself WAY too seriously sometimes”

That’s just it. I don’t. I enjoy being sarcastic and stirring the pot.

OTHERS take me way too seriously, IMO.

By BA

May 26, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this

All right n8, I’ll play ball. You drop Tex down to sixth, in April, you do stuff like that, you lose your ball club. That’s reactionary panicky Larry Bowa type crap. I think sometimes you see this whole thing very black and white. Regardless of what anybody on the team makes, Cox has got to make the personalities work. He does. And dropping an accomplished clean up hitter in April down to sixth is very much the opposite of the way Cox runs his operation. Maybe in a video game, but that kind of impulsive management is bush league. Look at the Tigers this year- the more they shift the lineup, the positions, they sink deeper and deeper.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this

JEB, I’m not sure what you mean. Hampton said that he hurt it while throwing a side session before what would’ve been his first start of the season. He said he thought it wasn’t a big deal and that he could pitch with it, but that it got worse in his final pitches of his pregame warmup in the bullpen before that game.

I’ve seen no other evidence or heard anyone suggest he hurt it in some other manner.

While it’s certainly not a common injury for pitchers, the way that elbow and shoulder injuries are common, I could see where it would be difficult for a lefty to throw with the left pec (chest) muscle injured. Just don’t know why his got injured and other pitchers’ pectoral muscles are so very rarely an issue.

I don’t know if the dude’s body, ligaments and tendons and muscles are just especially fragile as he’s gotten older or what.

And since I’m not aware of any pitcher who’s had the injury, it’s fairly impossible to say how long the recovery period is for a pitcher with said injury.

Not trying to skirt the question, I just have no idea. And the trainers and Braves officials I’ve asked have given me no indication that they have any idea, either, how long it should take to heal.

By N8

May 26, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this

Section 412

Maybe the guy(s) in the Benz were Brayan Pena and Chris Resop. Could it be the Padres are flying them into SD to “convince” them to come to the Padres when they send Maddux our way?

Sorry. Couldn’t resist.

By THB

May 26, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this

N8-Man you are an entertainer. It’s just fun to read your posts whether you’re making a point or complaining about the Braves.

Anyway, read up there about our connection with the Royals. I don’t think they’d part with Greinke yet, but he would be an increible pickup. I would be pretty damn happy with Bannister too. But we’re probably gonna have to settle for Maddux.

If we can get Chris Young, Zach Greinke, Brian Bannister, Rich Hll, or Rich Harden without giving up Schafer, Heywerd, or Morton, then I’d say DO IT. By the way has anyone considered trading for Rich Hill? I know he was brought up as a piece in a Brian Roberts trade, maybe we could snag him. What would the Cubs want? Bullpen help? Another outfielder?

The Padres need a lot of help. Lillibridge might be an attractive piece, since theyre looking to trade Khalil Greene. The Royals also need a SS, as well as some other positions, especially a power bat. The A’s would probably want some near major league ready players, most likely Schafer and Morton.

What is smarter? Smaller trade for Maddux and hope it’s enough now or a bigger trade that will help us in the coming years too?

By N8

May 26, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

Leslie Nielson/Airplane Pilot

I’m glad Hampton is coming along. He said I can have his dinner. He doesn’t like fish.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

mattymose, I like the one song I’ve heard, I think it’s called Angel? Anyway, is all their stuff that bluegrass oriented? Lot of banjo in that song I heard.

If you like that, you should try the Del McCoury Band, the real stuff. And they did a terrific album with Steve Earle, which is more my flavor, that combo of sounds with Earle giving it a bit of an edgy feel.

By FJR

May 26, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this

N8,

My point was why would Maddux waive his no-trade clause for more teams if the Braves were trying to trade for him?

I just don’t see it possibly turning into a bidding war. If the Braves throw an offer out there and no other competitive west coast teams do (which we agree they likely won’t), then Maddux holds the power. He can pretty much say “either you take the Braves offer, or you’re not getting anything. You can just eat my contract and then get nothing in free agency after this year. and don’t even think that I’d turn down arbitration and you could get a draft pick, I burned the braves with that before.”

I think if the Braves offer either Gorkys or Anderson or a similar quality player, the pads will be virtually forced to take it.

The Padres could gamble that close to the deadline he’d take a better offer from a different contending team, but that’s gambling an awful lot that they’ll get nothing in return.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

THB, why in the world would the Braves trade Charlie Morton? That ain’t happening. He’s a potential top-of-the-rotation pitcher just about ready to reach the majors. After spending all the time developing him (he was a bit slower coming along that most pitchers as talented as he is), they certainly aren’t looking to trade him now that they’re in position to finally begin reaping the rewards of his talent.

He could become a Rich Harden-type pitcher, and doesn’t have Harden’s spotty health.

Folks, Harden has pitched just shy of 100 innings … IN THE PAST THREE SEASONS (2006-08) COMBINED.

And I’ve heard nothing to indicate the Royals would trade Greinke, a budding young ace who is still cheap for a couple of years, on a mid- to low-payroll team that needs such affordable arms because it’s paid a lot for a couple others.

By N8

May 26, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this

BA

“All right n8, I’ll play ball. You drop Tex down to sixth, in April, you do stuff like that, you lose your ball club….And dropping an accomplished clean up hitter in April down to sixth is very much the opposite of the way Cox runs his operation.”

EVEN when Tex himself admits he gets off to a slow start? He DID publicly admit to it, right?

Besides. If Tex and all of these other players have so much damn respect for Bobby and his baseball brains, would ANYBODY (including Tex) question it?

THB

That wasn’t me about Greinke. That was prattvillenolzfan at 8:44.

“What is smarter? Smaller trade for Maddux and hope it’s enough now or a bigger trade that will help us in the coming years too?”

My personal opinion? I’d go for a younger guy that could help this year AND long-term, if one became available.

If Maddux is the best option, go for it.

I always enjoyed Maddux. I think he’d add to our rotation, if even as the 5th starter. But at what cost?

By FJR

May 26, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this

The A’s wouldn’t be interested in Shafer, he doesn’t fit their program, doesn’t walk enough, they don’t care about SB and defense nearly as much. They don’t look at a players “tools” they look at OBP and power stats. Shafer has done neither particularly well for any extended period of time.

Charlie Morton is an absolute no-go in a trade for somebody like Joe Blanton, who people ignore is like a number 3 starter. Harden? Aren’t you the same people who just want to get rid of Hampton? and you want Harden? He’s like Mike Hampton without Hampton’s productive years.

By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)

May 26, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this

You know, for once I will agree with COACH. Today is a great national holiday that is dedicated to those that sacrificed for their country.

All of my father’s family has been in the military for a 100 yrs — from the Civil War to Vietnam. Luckily most of my fathers brothers and himself survived.

So for today I will just be thankful for their contribution and appreciative of those who were not as fortunate.

No arguments for me today.

Go Bravos

By johnny

May 27, 2008 1:05 AM | Link to this

dob:thanks for the good work you do,good blog

By P-Town Brave

May 27, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this

I have to say, if you give me a pick from all the guys mentioned today on the blog, I chose Rich Harden…

Even w/ the spotty health issues, I still feel he could come in here and get better and be healthier than he was in Oakland…

Just look at some of our past reclamation projects, and realize…he isn’t even near that bad off…just needs to stay healthy, and after watching him pitch for 2+ years now, I must say the kid has Beckett type stuff, and there aren’t many guys you could find who you can say that about…

If we could have him for talent not including Schafer, Hanson, Morton, Heyward, and Hernandez, I say it may be worth a shot at him…

If you weren’t giving up the farm like we did for Tex, wouldn’t just about everyone believe he’s got top of the rotation stuff and ability if healthy?

And yes, like I said, health is a big question, but if given an opportunity to deal for him, wouldn’t you have to take that chance given the upside?

Lastly, keep the posts coming N8…I enjoy a fresh non-biased view from time to time that isn’t clouded by the kool-aid that some folks around here drink by the bucket full.

By mattymose

May 27, 2008 1:33 AM | Link to this

Yea most of Yonders songs are bluegrass oriented. I like there stuff though considering its different than most the music I listen to. I just got done listening to some Del McCoury Band. Pretty good stuff there.

By nolie

May 27, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this

Also: Jurrjens has a blister on his right thumb, prevented him from throwing his sinker today for most of the game.DOB

OMG another blister on another pitcher? Everybody on the team needs to start peeing in a cup and giving it to the trainer.

By Jeff Francouer's Swing Is Really Bad!

May 27, 2008 2:17 AM | Link to this

It’s True.

By BravesRule

May 27, 2008 2:18 AM | Link to this

So excuse me for being a little defensive. I’ve been (and will be in the future) a HELLUVA lot more negative than I have the past week or so.**N8&&

actually you sound a lot defensive N8 the H8. Buck up and be a man, take the consequences of your annoying posting style with a bit of bravery and honor instead of all this whining. Unbecoming for such a devil-may-care dude as yourself.

By Random

May 27, 2008 5:15 AM | Link to this

DOB:

“By the way, I wouldn’t count on Smoltz being back as early as he’d hoped (by end of May). Talking to him this morning, it sounds like the soreness he’s had has made him reevaluate the likelihood of such an early return. He said it could still happen, but that it might also take longer. Perhaps significantly longer.”

“Soriano is going to pitch at Double-A Ol’ Miss Wednesday and Friday, then could — repeat, could — join Braves after that if all goes well. Said he still has some discomfort in elbow, but nothing major and doesn’t prevent him from throwing breaking ball.”

“Oh, and Glavine’s had a sore knee for a couple weeks, his right (landing) knee.”

“Also, Smoltz is throwing in bullpen right now, second day in a row. Told Cox he felt really good yesterday in bullpen session, and Bobby said it was best he’s seen Smolt throw in a long time. Even Bobby didn’t know he was throwing again today, though, at least not when we talked to Bobby a half hour ago.”

“Soriano threw one inning for Double-A Miss with one hit, one walk, one strikeout, 19 pitches. Said to have felt “fine.””

“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.”

“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.”

“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.”

“Anyway, Smoltz never came out. Sent word through a team official that he was a bit “under the weather” but otherwise fine. Apparently that meant his shoulder was OK, though Bobby Cox told us that Smoltz reported “normal” day-after shoulder soreness, or stiffness, as Bobby put it. Anyway, Smoltz plans to throw a side session tomorrow here in Atlanta, then they’ll decide if he needs to go out and throw another rehab game or two before he’s activated. Sounds like they’re probably leaning that way.”

“Rafael Soriano update: He’s expected to be activated on Monday, according to Cox.”

“LA Braves Fan: Yes, I think Smoltz will pitch on the road trip. And Soriano could pitch as soon as tomorrow….”

“Smoltz is going with the Braves on the trip, though that doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll be activated immediately. Might still have another rehab appearance, will know more after his side session tomoorrow, perhaps.”

“As for Soriano, he’s still got a little soreness in that elbow, but says he doesn’t think it’s going to bother him. Hey, I’m like most of you, that doesn’t sound great, but … it is what it is. He’s supposed to throw a bullpen tomorrow, then they’ll decide whether to activate him.”

“When I talked to Bobby 30 minutes ago, they still hadn’t decided, or Smoltz hadn’t decided, if he’d be activated now, or after pitching in another minor league game, or after just facing hitters here. Smoltz again didn’t come out to talk to us.”

“Smoltz, Soriano and Hampton all are going with team to Milwaukee.”

“Anyway: Smoltz has flu symptoms and isn’t going to start out on the trip, according to Bobby. He’ll stay here and might make a rehab appearance at Rome, then join Braves later in trip.”

So, the Braves are apparently still blowing smoke up our axes when it comes to their pitchers’ health and readiness to play.

DOB, are you a part of the conspiracy, or just a witless dupe?

Evidence points to the latter — judging from some of the things you find funny, you do appear rather simple-minded.

Joking, joking, just joking (a reprise of an earlier humorous dig — just trying to lighten the mood, maybe draw some heat away from the inestimable N8haniel.

(Joking abot “dupe” — not joking about “smoke”.)

By ncgary

May 27, 2008 6:33 AM | Link to this

i think despite all the putrid remarks towards one another most of us agree we dont want to see the 08 season resting on 3 rookie pitchers starting

i feel the best staff to attempt to rob would be the totonto bluejays, bc used to have connections there and shaun marcum, if im not mistaken signed this year for around 4 million also toronto still in race too, but they have no left handers, maybe jo jo or cj doesnt get it done, maybe they want one of the younger leftys and a position player or two, but marcum is still young enough to help for a lot of seasons and seasoned enough to avoid most of the rookie mistakes

toronto may be happy with 5 rightys in rotation, but if braves could push a lefty for him, hes the type that could grow into a nice compliment to jjj at the 1 and 2 slots in the future

By Del Crandle

May 27, 2008 7:00 AM | Link to this

I think Bob Feller is avaiable for the #5 SP. Don’t think it would take much to get him, maybe Schafer or Morton. Feller is less likely to get hurt than Rich Harden and he still throws faster than Maddux in the high 80’s. What’s that? He’s in his high 80’s. Well he’s a decorated vet, anyway. Happy Memorial Day.

By Section 412

May 27, 2008 7:03 AM | Link to this

Thanks for the info on Glavine. Glad to hear it. Now let’s go get some road wins!

By BA

May 27, 2008 7:06 AM | Link to this

Yeah Braves rule, H8 is AWFULLY defensive for someone who claims not to care. Guess you reap what you sow-if you spend twenty hours a day ragging on the Braves on this blog, maybe you shouldn’t be suprised when you get called out to the tune of twenty people. Maybe they like to “stir the pot” too. “stir the pot” is H8’s way of saying “hate on the Braves”. But don’t worry, we’ll all keep pretending he’s a Braves fan.

By LivininAL

May 27, 2008 7:39 AM | Link to this

I’m a Frenchy Fan, but with all the matchups Bobby likes ,starting a RF lefty occasionally against some of the nasty Righies in the league would make sense to me.

By BA

May 27, 2008 8:10 AM | Link to this

Geez, only twelve hours ‘till first pitch. Wonder if we’ll see Soriano tonight. Our kids are never going to believe the Brewers used to be in the AL. And to adress the bizzare Pena/Escobar controversy, I’d say this. We’ve all seen Escobar on TV, in the dugout. Anybody REALLY think he’s the type of guy who has trouble making friends?!

By FJR

May 27, 2008 8:22 AM | Link to this

ncgary, toronto isn’t going to even think about trading shaun marcum for one of our lefties. They want to win now and Jo-Jo Reyes doesn’t scream “win now” to you does he?

People on this blog never cease to amaze me with who they think is possible for trade.

By Shaun

May 27, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this

ncgary, I don’t think the Blue Jays will be trading a 26-year-old who has been their best pitcher this season unless they get at least one player as young who is better or has the potential to be better.

And they’d probably want that player to be a hitter because their pitching is solid; they need offense.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this

LOL,

I love this blog. One day people are (to varying degrees of seriousness) talking about eating Hampton’s contract and cutting him, despite all logic, because they just don’t like him because of his health. Then the next day we want to trade for Rich Harden?

The A’s are in contention. If Billy Beane trades Harden its because he knows he’s a ticking time bomb.

“Spotty health”? Are you freaking joking? The guy has made an average of 7 starts per year the last three years. If that’s spotty, I have a small spot of a pond to seel you, the pacific ocean.

Its one thing to have traded for hampton when he was healthy and tehn be saddled with an awful contract when he develops injuries. Its another thing entirely to trade for a guy who has only made 30 starts once in six years!

Think about that for a minute. IN 4 out of his 5 full seasons he has missed over 10 starts. In 3 out of his 5 full seasons he has missed 20+ starts. Holy Mike Hampton Batman!

By FloridaBrave

May 27, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this

FJR,

One Main Difference: Harden is cheaper. ALOT cheaper. If it doesn’t work out, we’re not saddled with an awful contract for 3-4 years.

With every healthy start Harden’s value increases. If he’s healthy at the trade deadline, there’s going to be more people wanting the guy.

By Shaun

May 27, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

FloridaBrave, Harden’s deal runs through 2009 only (through 2008 and club option for 2009).

May be worth trading for him if the Braves don’t have to give up one of their top prospects and/or four good prospects but otherwise it would be wise to stay away.

Wouldn’t be wise to give up a top prospect or a lot of solid prospects for only a year and a half of a pitcher who may or may not stay healthy enough to help them.

By ncscoots

May 27, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

I’m pretty sure that Wren is laying groundwork for a RH bat and a starter, but surely you don’t expect anything to happen 8 weeks before the trade deadline, right? The Braves built starting depth for a reason, and that foresight is paying off. The team will ride that horse until, and if, they can make a trade for the right piece, and will not seen as dealing from desperation.

And Maddux ain’t it. Braves have a hole at the front of the rotation, not the back. Whether they can actually trade for someone to fill that hole is arguable, but acquiring Maddux certainly won’t do it.

Jurrjens can’t be expected to throw as many innings as now projected, Glavine can’t be expected to shoulder a front-end slot (and wasn’t signed to do so), and Reyes at 4 or 5 would be fine. That leaves nobody backing up Hudson. As much as I respect Maddux, he’s no longer a front-end pitcher, and trading for him makes no sense in the current scheme of things.

By Lew

May 27, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

FloridaBrave-Come on Dude. Your justification for wanting Harden is that when he gets injured it won’t cost as much?

By FloridaBrave

May 27, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

Shaun,

The prospect is a risk too. That’s why they’re called prospects. Harden is a risk but I’m willing to bet on him with a “B-level prospect” since the reward is 20 wins from a guy we’d be paying like $5 million. I think the risk is worth the reward.

If he gets injured again then we let him walk after 2009 and we’re not stuck with an awful contract like Hampton. If he does do well and shows he’s healthy, we try and re-sign him.

You’re not going to get a young guy with ace potential as cheaply as Harden. The pitching market is absurd and I think it may actually be smarter in some instances to risk a B level prospect on Harden than it is to throw 5 prospects at a team for a more proven guy.

Either way, discussing the market for pitching just makes me appreciate what we have in Jurrjens, Reyes, Morton,and Hanson. It’d be a sick rotation and set us up for years if they can all reach their potential.

By Moby Grape

May 27, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

Good news. 90% of the AJC voters say that we will win at least one of the upcoming away series. Things are lookin’ up. Go Braves!

By DOB's taint

May 27, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

Have we resigned Jorge Sosa yet?

By Shaun

May 27, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

ncscoots, do the Braves have a hole in their rotation? I mean they still have allowed the fewest runs in the league.

Adding Maddux would be just fine only if, like Harden, they don’t have to give up too much and San Diego pays some of his salary. I think such a scenario is more likely with Maddux, if San Diego continues to falter, because they’ll just be trying to dump Maddux. Adding a decent pitcher that can give the team innings is of value even if he isn’t a “front-end pitcher.” But we’ll see if it’s practical for the Braves.

I do agree with you; no reason to deal out of a false sense of desperation and I’m sure Wren and his people know that better than any of us.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

FloridaBrave,

We haven’t actually paid a whole lot on hampton’s contract as the majority of it was covered by insurance.

let’s also not forget that in 2003-2004 we were getting a producutive Mike Hampton for only 2 Million per year. In 2005 Hampton pitched too much for insurance to pick up very much of his contract but he only cost the Braves 1.5 million that year.

Now, although the Braves don’t release isnurance figures, its believed that Hampton doesn’t have insurance on his actual contract anymore, as its believed that policy ran out after last year. What the braves probably do have however, is a pool that includes all their players making over say 5mill. So Smoltz, Hampton, Glavine, Chipper, etc would all be in this insurance pool. Typically the pool gets triggered if time spent by players in the pool on the DL equates to losses of over 5 million, then insurance covers 80% of everything over 5 mill.

It varies a lot as to how its set up though, but from what I know about baseball insurance (which is surprisingly a lot, since I was a research assistant for an insurance lawyer who consults for the Nationals), I’d be willing to bet the Braves are getting about half of Hampton’s contract covered.

So when you figure that we got Hampton cheap for two productive years and then paid about 8 mill per for 3 years (and one half productive, but cheap year), that comes out to us paying about 10 mill per year for 2 good years and one where he was hurt half the year.

That’s not awful, although its not good either.

By Overlord

May 27, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Cox got to be the stoooopidest manager in baseball. What is KJ doing 2nd in the batting order….. Cant he just get that KJ only does good if hitting down the order?

Braves beat Brandon Webb and media barely say something about it….. Its obvious NY media hates the braves.

By Shaun

May 27, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

FloridaBrave, we’ll see if a “B-level prospect” is enough. My guess is it is not, at least not just one. If so, I agree that he may be worth the risk. But I’m guessing Oakland is waiting until teams get desperate. And if they wait too long, they are in the race and he continues to pitch well, they may just hold on to him to make a playoff/World Series run.

By DAP

May 27, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

i think the pitcher that best suits our needs that is most likely to get traded is ben sheets. he is the power arm that we need in the rotaton, and that we are gonna have to have to win in the post season. milwakee isnt that far beind in the central, but if they are out of it, they WILL try to trade sheets.

he is a free agent after this year, might even be a good idea to extend him.

By ncscoots

May 27, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

Shaun, the fewest runs allowed in the league was accomplished with five Smoltz starts, 70 innings from Jurrjens, and a good first two months from Glavine. My point is that at least two of those three cannot continue going forward. The hole may be shallow at the moment, but it will get deeper as the season progresses.

By eric the elder

May 27, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

prattvillenolzfan One thing I QUICKLY learned during my 18 years of marriage….. You DAMN well better back up your opinion with fact when arguing……

One thing I SLOWLY learned during my 50+ years of marriage is that facts have absolutely nothing to do with the outcome of an argument.

By DAP

May 27, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

floridabrave i like harden to, and i think its a risk worth taking if the price isnt to high. his salary is good, so it would depend on what we would have to trade for him, and im betting it will be more than you are saying. it still might be worth it, but we’d have to see.

my biggest fear is that our current rotation cant win in the postseason. if we get there with this group, we are really gonna miss smoltz starting.

By Lew

May 27, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

Eric-50 plus years? I thought I was doing well hitting 33 years of marriage next week. Congratulations. That is quite an accomplishment. One I hope to achieve-IF I live that long.

By Shaun

May 27, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

Overlord, Johnson had a hit and a sac yesterday. He basically did the same thing that he did Friday and Sunday and did you complain about his performance those days? That’s right, you are probably going to complain about Kelly Johnson every game that he doesn’t get on base two or three times.

Only a few on this blog would complain about a second baseman hitting .297/.356/.487. Let’s trade him!

…And let’s see, Webb pitches for Arizona. The Braves play in Atlanta. So it’s the NY media’s fault for not saying enough about the Braves beating Webb. Never mind that the second story listed on espn.com’s baseball page under “ESPNEWS headlines” is “D-backs ace Webb roughed up by Braves.”

By DAP

May 27, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

eric the elder One thing I SLOWLY learned during my 50+ years of marriage is that facts have absolutely nothing to do with the outcome of an argument.

yeah, 10 months and counting for me….facts dont matter. only feelings.

which is not at all how we do it on THIS blog. its a very manly place.

By BravesRule

May 27, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Harden is a risk but I’m willing to bet on him with a “B-level prospect” since the reward is 20 wins from a guy we’d be paying like $5 million. FlaBrave

regardless of what those morons at that trade blog say, it is highly unlikely that Beane is gonna trade him for a B prospect, unless he starts to have serious doubts about his health this year. As long as he stays healthy and makes his starts some team is gonna be willing to surrender a lot more than that at the trade deadline

By Shaun

May 27, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

ncscoots, they’ve been about as good in both April and May (with and without Smoltz). True, Jurrjens has obviously pitched well but aside from a couple of starts Glavine hasn’t pitched all that great overall. James and Reyes haven’t pitched that well overall, but pretty much everyone else on the staff has pitched well.

So Jurrjens holding up should really be the only concern. Granted, it is a big one that the Braves should pay attention to (which they probably are).

By FJR

May 27, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Ben Sheets would cost much more than we have to trade. If healthy, he’ll fetch at least one A+ level prospect (which we may or may not have anymore) and either a an A or two B level prospects. I wouldn’t trade Morton, Shafer and Gorkys for a half year of Ben Sheets, who can go down to injury at any given moement and has never pitched a meaningful inning in his career. But that’s likely what it would take.

The thing with Maddux is just that we’re in an absurdly good position. Maddux most likely would only waive his no-trade clause for us or a west coast team. None of the competitive west coast teams have any need whatsoever for Maddux. THe Padres will be desperate to trade maddux the closer they get to the deadline with no shot at contention.

For all the people desperate to trade for a front end starter, look at the two trades this off-season, Santana and Bedard. The Mariners are one fo the worst teams in baseball and now have a fragile pitcher not meeting expectations and the Mets have a pitcher with a mid three era who has lost 3-4 mph off his fastball who they are paying 25 million per year for 6 years and gave up a top level prospect for that “right”.

Look at the Mariners and Mets and ask yourself “are those the kinds of deals I want to make for a top starter?”

If the right deal comes along, FW will make it.

By eric the elder

May 27, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

Lew and other blog vets

I asked this last week, but no response. Trying again.

Does anyone know what became of our old friend Bob Journalist? I think I heard that Carolina Lady has her own blog (?), but I don’t know where it is. Maybe Bob went there?

Thanks for the kind words, Lew.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

May 27, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

And, in fairness the Braves beating Webb was ahead of the Willie Randolph/Mets saga on Sportscenter last night.

By Coach Smith

May 27, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

Amongst all the PITCHERS (Harden, Maddux, Greinke, etc) that everyone is prospecting and proposing trades for….

you are all missing maybe the bEST FIT for this BRAVES team both this year and the future….AARON HARANG

The guy is a solid pitcher, an innings eater, and has another year on his contract after this one

If you could get him and extend him out, he could be a front line #2-#3 type starter for the Braves for the next 5 years….

he has no history of injury, he posts a good record (usually) and era despite pitching in CINCY…

The REDS are going nowhere and with DUNN, GRIFFEY and others either being traded or leaving after this year this is the time to go after him….

Not to mention they already replaced the GM mid-season, annd have now called up their #1 prospect JAY BRUCE who is an outfielder…this all signals rebuilding….

If they are going with replacement young players the Braves have more than most teams to get him…

right now the only SS they have on the active roster is PAUL JANISH?

Could you get HARANG for Chuck James, Lillabridge, and Josh Anderson?

What about JOSH HAMILTON of the Rangers? Will he be available?

Could you get or would you offer SCHAFER, Diory Hernandez, Matt Diaz, and Scott Thorman to get Hamilton?

SS is blocked for the Braves for years to come…..we can’t afford to sit on those prospects especially when you also have Infante.

Thoughts? let’s hear it

By Jim Hertel

May 27, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Anyone notice that Scott Williamson seems to be rounding into form at Richmond? Relief pitching isn’t the Braves greatest need, but it might be good to stretch Blaine Boyer out and make him a starter. Blaine’s career won’t be long doing what he is doing. He could be better as a starter than anyone mentioned on this blog as a possibility. If needed, Williamson could then take Boyer’s place in relief.

By Josh from Columbus

May 27, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

Any idea when a new blog will be up?

By David O'Brien

May 27, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

That was a solid post, FJR. Made perfect sense.

By eric the elder

May 27, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

Quote from David Wright after last night’s Mets loss:

We need to snap out of this and turn this thing around so we can get back on track.

Three cliches in one sentence might be a record for which Wright will be honored at the end of the season.

By Lew

May 27, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

Eric-Email me at LewHartman@comcast.net I’ll put you in touch with them.

By DAP

May 27, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

FJR youre probably right, maddux would cost (in trade) about half of what sheets would, and hes worth about half of what sheets would be worth to us. maddux isnt gonna help us win in the post season. he would be good to have for the rest of the regular season, to give us quality innings, but i think sheets for the rest of the season, with a possibility to resign is worth alot more than maddux for the rest of the season, who will probably retire afterwards.

best case for the braves is trading 3 or 4 players for sheets, and extending him for another 3 years or so. i think sheets is the best, most realistic option for the braves.

By ncscoots

May 27, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

Actually, for Glavine, it’s the other way around, Shaun. The Cincy game and the Arizona game were blowups, but other than that, he’s been pretty good. Better than I thought he would be, frankly.

By northbeach Scott

May 27, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

Thank you AJC for removing that obnoxious 10:21 post.

By Shaun

May 27, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

Blaine’s career won’t be long doing what he is doing.

Jim, are you serious? Boyer has struck out 65 batters in his major league career in 73.3 innings while only walking 25 and giving up only 3 homeruns.

True, Boyer’s career won’t last long doing what he’s doing…because soon he will be a closer or a starter.

By Coach Smith

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

Two words….

AARON HARANG

DAP…I would rather have him than SHEETS

By Lew

May 27, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

I seriously doubt that Shafer will be on the trading block even despite his recent HGH difficulties. He is pencilled in for the starting center field position next year and I’ve heard very little that would indicate that this has changed. Maybe they will push him back a year (or less) because of the games he missed, but I would doubt there will be any significant change in the Brave’s thoughts on him.

As for pitching help-first of all, we’re not in bad shape yet, we still have options in AAA and Carlyle just came off the DL. The pitching rotation by Committee has worked amazingly well and I see no reason for it not to continue with the interchangeable parts.I also haven’t heard that anyone (except denizens here) have given up on some production coming from Chuck James’ direction.

That being said, there will be a need in the next year (likely to undoubtedly) for some starting pitching. IF a deal can be made without giving up any of our own stud prospects for someone who is under contract for another couple years, it would indeed, be a good move. However, judging from previous deals, I would imagine it wouldn’t be anyone we’ve even thought of. It’s always someone flying under the radar.

By ncscoots

May 27, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

Three cliches in one sentence might be a record for which [David] Wright will be honored at the end of the season.

He’s practicing for the Academy Award he’ll receive later this year, for “Best Actor In A Portrayal Of A Gold Glove 3B”.

Reviews would have characterized the performance as “gripping”, but it was decided that might not be so appropriate.

By Rahul

May 27, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

“What about JOSH HAMILTON of the Rangers? Will he be available?

Could you get or would you offer SCHAFER, Diory Hernandez, Matt Diaz, and Scott Thorman to get Hamilton?”

Sorry, this might be the funniest thing I’ve read all week. Hamilton has to be practically untouchable the way he is hitting, and that package is nowhere close to being attractive. Ridiculous

By kdbanks

May 27, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

Here’s hoping we don’t make any more trades of significance (i.e. prospects for starting pitcher). I love the make up of this team, the way the guys fit together. Even the mismash bullpen seems like they get along really well, and that’s even with knowing three more dudes are about to show up and take three of the spots away.

I like our team for this year, and I like our youth for the coming years. We’re not looking to win it all this year at the expense of the next three. I’d rather watch the Braves win 90 games every year, and have a chance at something in October as opposed to going for it all one year and knowing the next three will be tough to win 82 games.

By eric the elder

May 27, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

Maddux is 11-14 in post season play, and that was in his prime.

He is one of the best pitchers of our generation, but not now.

A Big Three farewell tour would be emotionally gratifying, but it makes no baseball sense.

By Ramblin Wrecker

May 27, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

DOB,

You mentioned Hampton briefly above. I know you don’t know when he will be fully healed, but what can you tell us about what he’s been doing? Is he shut down completely or has he been long tossing, throwing off a mound or what? It seems after this last letdown Hampton fell completely off the radar.

By Jim Hertel

May 27, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

Shaun, I’m lobbying for Boyer to be a starter. I think he could be a real stud as a starter, something we don’t have now and can’t trade for — without selling the farm.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

Coach Smith,

there is a reason nobody is talking about Aaron Harang, the Reds aren’t going to trade him. Not going to happen, especially not this year.

DAP,

Maddux won’t cost half what Harang will, or even a third. The Brewers could start a bidding war between the Yankees, Tigers (who aren’t going to consider themselves out of teh race with that payroll until at least after the all-star break), Astros (who the longer they are in contention teh logner they’ll look to deal), etc

The Padres could start a bidding war with… um… who besides us would maddux waive his no trade clause for? Other West coast teams. What west coast team in contention is going to trade for pitching?

By DAP

May 27, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

coach smith i had forgotten about harang and cincy…thanx for bringing that up. they have some good young pitching and might be willing to dump harang to build up some other areas. hes gonna be harder to get than sheets, since he still has sometime on his contract, and ill bet that the reds try to build up thier holes by trading the peices they need less, like griffey, dunn, hatteberg, even freel and patterson are probably expendable at this point. ill be hard to pry away harang, but he would definetly be a good one. if we couldnt get harang, wold arroyo be worth having?

and i dont think there is any chance the ranger will be trading hamilton. he will be in texas for a long time.

By Random

May 27, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

ManofTeal: “the Marlins took game two of the Marlins vs Diamondbacks series and they also handed BRandon Webb his first loss of the season. Now do you consider the Marlins to be contenders???? The media seems to think that they are….FINALLY. All I can say is that the Braves fans better not be worrying about the stupid Mets…..what you need to be worrying about is how angry the Diamondbacks are going to be when they play the Braves this weekend…..especially if the Marlins win tonight and complete the sweep. Go Marlins!!!!”

So, you beat Webb, hmm? Scored three runs off him, hmm? Six hits, hmm? In seven innings, hmm? Feeling pretty good, hmm? World’s your oyster, hmm? Next stop, World Series, hmm?

Well, how does ten hits and seven runs in 4.1 innings sound to you, huh?

Yeah, ‘a’s right — go, “ManaTee”. Begone.

By ncscoots

May 27, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

As long as nonsensical player moves are the flavor of the day, the actual best pitcher available for the Braves to add is… a healthy Hampton. But even I am beginning to believe that’s as likely as any of the trades usually posted here, i.e., not in a universe inhabited by humans. But, still…

Also under the radar: Lerew should be throwing soon, I’d imagine. I have no idea how well he will come back from TJ, but, if he regains that sinker he was throwing last year, he ought to be in the mix for September and next year.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

Some of the comments on this blog make me wonder if Rangers fans sit around thinking “I wonder if the Braves would take Frank Catalanatto, Marlon Byrd and Elvis Andrus for Chipper?”

or if Reds fans sit around debating whether or not Tim Hudson or Brian McCann would be a better trade for Ken Griffey.

By DAP

May 27, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

FJR who besides us would maddux waive his no trade clause for?

maybe not even us, man. we dont really know that.

By Original Jon

May 27, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

I just read that the A’s may trade some relievers if they are out of contention, and one of the names they mentioned was Joey Devine. How awesome would it be if we could trade something to get Joey back? Be the steal of a century.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

DAP,

Sure, he might not waive it for us, then we don’t make the deal and the Padres are stuck with him, NBD. I think he would waive it for us when we’re in contention and he liked his time in Atlanta with Smoltz and Glavine. I think given the right city and situation Maddux would really like another shot at the playoffs.

By MGL

May 27, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Coach - “Cox got to be the stoooopidest manager in baseball. What is KJ doing 2nd in the batting order….. Cant he just get that KJ only does good if hitting down the order?”

Might be a little too extreme a position to take since KJ is the hottest hitter on the t4eam in May other than the middle of the order guys.

By Shaun

May 27, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

He is one of the best pitchers of our generation, but not now.

A Big Three farewell tour would be emotionally gratifying, but it makes no baseball sense.

eric, depends on what would have to be given up to get him. He’s still a decent pitcher that can provide around 200 innings a season. There is some value in that. He doesn’t have to be a great pitcher. It all depends on what the Padres would take as to whether it’s worth making a run at Maddux.

It makes some sense to me. As someone else said, he’d probably give up his no-trade to come to Atlanta, and if the Padres continue to be this bad they may just look to dump him for next to nothing.

As FJR alluded to, no team is going to get a front-line starter unless they give up a whole lot (i.e., probably more than it’s worth for the Braves or most other teams).

By David O'Brien

May 27, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

Scoots, good point on Lerew for next year. He was throwing very well in extended spring last I checked, couple weeks ago. They’re still high on him.

By TennesseePaul

May 27, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Though the Mets should be better than the 77-83 team they’ve been since last May, we should know by now that they’re clearly not more talented than the Braves and Phillies and even the Marlins. They’re not so much better that it’s as simple as replacing Randolph with Jerry Manuel or Jim Fregosi or Joey Cora.
—Peter Gammons

By David O'Brien

May 27, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

Northbeach Scott, it was the same person who put up all three crude posts. Got himself banned, you can rest assured. Removed them soon as I saw them…

Ramblin Wrecker: I’ve written updates on Hampton several times in recent days. He started playing catch this past week, without any pain. Went on trip with Braves and will keep throwing on flat ground a few more times before he gets on mound in a week or so.

Still has to do a minor league rehab stint once he’s ready to face hitters. Still at least a few weeks, at least, from possibly rejoining Braves.

By Avatar

May 27, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

He’s still a decent pitcher that can provide around 200 innings a season.Shaun

yeah that’s what everybody was saying about Glavine over the winter. How’s that turning out? Not so hot innings pitched wise. Screw Maddux. His ERA away from the Pet is 5.35 with 48 hits in 35 innings. I wish people would check the splits on players b4 demanding that we trade 4 them.

By David O'Brien

May 27, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

Eric the Elder: Good observation on the cliche trifecta that David Wright pulled off, three in one sentence indeed.

By the way, do you folks realize with which draft pick the Mets got Wright? It was a compensatory pick they got from Colorado for the Rockies signing free agent … Mike Hampton.

I kid you not.

By westy12

May 27, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

Thoughts on Diaz…

I’ve gotta think his slump has something to do with the fact that he found himself on the short end of yet another platoon a month into the season. He’s spent the past 2 years earning a chance to play every day, and finally hitting .330 became good enough to give him that chance this spring.

But then a month into the season, he’s “only” hitting .280, and this rookie Blanco comes up, gets a hit or two in his first few games, and all of sudden, Diaz loses 60 percent of the at-bats he thought he was going to get this year.

I get the impression Diaz is a good dude, with a team-first approach, and would never complain. But that’s gotta bother anyone on some level. I would guess, subconsciously at least, he’s trying to do to much, trying to win back the job that he spent 2 years earning, and 1 month losing.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

May 27, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I agree with you about Maddux. The Braves don’t necessarily need a front line starter. They have that in Hudson. Jurrjens is proving to be a solid #2. Glavine is doing okay as a #3. Maddux would be a great co-#3.

A guy like Maddux is great for this rotation. All the Braves need is a pitcher who can eat some innings and give the offense a chance to win.

By David O'Brien

May 27, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Smoking a big Cohiba, drinking coffee, and listening to this Johnny Cash “The Great Lost Performance” CD that came out a few months or so ago. This thing’s outstanding. I just picked it up last week. It’s from a 1990 show he did at the Paramount Theatre in Asbury Park.

Great versions of Folsom Prison Blues, Five Feet High and Rising, Jackson (with June), and Sunday Morning, Coming Down.

By BamaBravesFan

May 27, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

DOB,

WOW…Hampton bites us again. He is the gift that continually keeps on giving.

By DAP

May 27, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

FJR i agree with you…i think he would come back here…it would be a good story and would help us get into the playoffs.

i just dont know. id like to win a few playoff series and get back to the WS, and i just dont think we can do it with this group of pitchers+maddux. DANG i wish smoltx was gonna be able to start this year.

i like our chances better if we got a guy like sheets. and, we are gonna need pitching next year…sheets would be a good pick up…oh well. i guess we will have to see what happens.

if maddux is who we can get, i wont complain. i trust wren is gonna do the most he can to improve the team.

By Shaun

May 27, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul, I don’t know how much I agree with Gammons. Who knows if it would help them but I think it would be good for the Mets to have a fresh start with a new GM and manager. At this point, I tend to think they need to try something. Well, maybe not at this point but if they are still this far out in a couple of weeks or at the All-Star break. From what I’ve read though, Minaya’s job is probably safe.

By TennesseePaul

May 27, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

So this was a good weekend. I went to the Phoenix area for a round at Troon North (DOB I’m sure Smoltz knows of this course, it’s incredibly beautiful). The weather was perfect. After the heat showed up last week this weekend it was 75 degrees and sunny. Just fabulous. But interestingly enough I couldn’t get the Diamondback/Braves games on at the Westin. Only the Cubs games. Does this sort of thing happen in Atlanta when the Braves are on the Road? I haven’t seen it out here in LA. Shocking. But it’s nice to get back on the machine and see a split. I would have loved 3 of 4 but I’ll take 2 of 4.

FJR: Santana and Bedard weren’t the only big pitchers to change teams and leagues. The Haren trade worked out quite well for the D-Backs I would say. And I would imagine Maddux would be interested in a trade to Atlanta. I don’t know that the team will make such a deal or if such a deal is needed but I think he would seriously consider it taking into account the presence of Smoltz and Glavine and the fact the team is doing well.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

westy12, the problem with Diaz wasn’t his batting average, it was that his OBP was also .280 (he hadn’t walked a single time), he had the most strikeouts on the team and his slugging percentage was .312.

Those numbers are AWFUL. And its only gotten worse. People forget with Diaz that his BA is by far his best statistic, and that all his other offensive numbers are mediocre/bad.

He’s a singles hitter who doesn’t walk. When he’s not hitting singles he’s worthless.

Don’t mean to rag him too much, because I think he’s good for certain roles and I like him, but lets not try to say his slump is bobby’s fault because he slumped. When you are only good at one thing, and you don’t do that one thing, then you shouldn’t be an everyday player.

By Coach Smith

May 27, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

FJR and RAHUL

You act like JOSH HAMILTON is a proven all-star player and as untouchable as Derek Jeter or something….

Maybe they won’t trade him BUT he is 27 and this is the first year he has done anything substantial…

SCHAFER is/was one of the TOP PROSPECTS IN ALL OF BASEBALL and they both play CF….DIORY HERNANDEZ is also an “A” type prospect

and Thorman is a 1b with power (in case you forgot they don’t have a real 1b anymore)

Then DIAZ a good utility guy…

That fills 4 spots for them with one player…

You have to remember that not all teams are equal and therefore cannot look at trades the same way…

A team like TEXAS that is always a few years off cannot afford to sit on ONE GOOD PLAYER and pass up more peices the way a team like the BRAVES or Red Sox can…..

The same goes for the REDS…

When you need a whole outfield, half an infield, and a bullpen and bench…you can’t endlessly hang onto ONE pitcher that could be used to fill more needs

Maybe it takes more than that to get either one of those guys BUT you can’t act like all things are equal

Let’s be realistic guys

By ncgary

May 27, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

anyone else get the feeling acosta might go get stretched out if we cant rob some other gm

By Efrim

May 27, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

Maddux makes a lot of sense. Jair is at 66 innings and is on pace for 198. Far too many for a 22 year old with past rotator cuff issues. The starting pitching has been good, but another starter like Maddux would make me less nervous. I really worry about the lack of innings that our starters are throwing. I mean, I understand that Smoltz, Soriano, and Gonzo are coming back. But we really shouldn’t think that we will get production from them for the remainder of the season. Boyer, Bennett and Acosta have been used a lot. I understand there is no alternative right now, but it is just something to think about for later this season. That is why getting a proven starter like Maddux makes too much sense.

By Billy Walsh

May 27, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

ON Mlbtraderumors..someone proposed a Schaefer for B. Giles and Maddux. Why would you trade a big trade chip for a 40+ pitcher who is only going to go 5 innings and a way past his prime outfielder. Maddux makes no sense for this team. He is too old and way too expensive. Why would you trade solid prospects for a less than one year rental? The braves farm system is still trying retool from the Tex trade last year. I agree that Harang makes sense (if he is available). He goes deep into ballgames and would benefit greatly getting out of the banbox in Cinn. He also threw two solid innings in relief in San Deigo on three days rest.

By Coach Smith

May 27, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

kdbanks

your sentiment is nice BUT the Braves put this team together with COX, Chipper (getting older), trade for TEX, Smoltz, and Glavine with the thoughts of winning it ALL over the next couple of seasons….

They aren’t just going to stand pat and hope to compete again in 3 years

They will continue to try and rebuild/reload on the fly with a mix of veterans, home grown players, and free agents…And they do it better than anyone

By TJ

May 27, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

Don’t know if anyone mentioned this (I didn’t see it), but Eric Campbell made his debut last night for Myrtle Beach, went 2 for 5 (plus an error at 3B).

Never did hear what got him suspended (or held in extended S.T., whatever), but glad he’s back in the fold. He’s a monster talent if he can get his head screwed on straight. The best hope we have for replacing Chipper from within.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

DAP,

I feel you on wanting another front line starter. I jsut don’t see how its going to happen. I don’t think we have the guns to get sheets if he were to go on the trading block. Too many teams much more desperate for pitching than us. Phils, Astros, Yankees, etc. All of those teams need Sheets much more than us and would give up much more.

Harang is just laughable the more I think about it. The Reds just signed him to a 4 year deal. Even if the Reds think they’re out of it for this year, they’ve got too much young talent to think they’re also out of it for the next 4 years.

Can you imagine what it would take if the Reds went crazy and did deal him? To have one of the 10 best pitchers in baseball for 4 years at a reasonable salary? I don’t think any single team in baseball has that many A+ prospects. Maybe if the Red Sox traded Bucholz, John Lester, Papelbon and Jacoby Ellsbury they MIGHT be able to get Harang. Maybe.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

May 27, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

Shaun, Gammons is dead on right. I said it from the beginning of the season the Mets aren’t as talented as the Braves or Phillies. Name on position where the Mets have more talent than either the Braves and/or Phils?

1B? nope; 2B? nope; SS? nope; 3B? nope; LF? Maybe. I would take Alou (when healthy) over Burrell or our current platoon. CF? Not really. Beltran isn’t playing any better than Kotsay or Werth, but I suppose you have to say the Mets are more talented there. RF? nope; Catcher? nope; Starting rotation? Nope. Braves and even the Phils are deeper. Bullpen? Nope. Bench? Its not even close.

By TennesseePaul

May 27, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Payne: Well Gammon’s opinion is what it is but I was fascinated by the implication from an ESPN source that the Mets might not be as talented as even the Marlins. I had to look at my window to check for any flying pigs… I’ll admit that was two fold, one for the previously listed ESPN statement the other is a result of interest in pig pixie dust. If mud wallowing pigs can regrow limbs what type of wonders would a flying pig offer?

By MGL

May 27, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

westy12 - I don’t think your logic holds water. Check out Matt’s situational stats. Batting Ave:

.313 March/April .150 May .450 Home against Leftys .138 Home against Rightys .172 Away against Laftys .161 Away against Rightys

Been pretty gruesom all year except home against leftys and now seems to have lost that. Can’t blame Bobby for sitting him.

By Caleb

May 27, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Comments from John Donovan on SI.com.

“The Mets have enough problems without losing good players like Ryan Church. But it was his fault, and his only, that he came in too high in a slide at second base on Tuesday night and caught the knee of Atlanta shortstop Yunel Escobar in the head. Church was knocked unconscious for a moment when his head clanked against the infield dirt, and he hasn’t been in the starting lineup since. He’ll get down a little more quickly next time.”

By Daybed Wagmoe

May 27, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

It looks like the pitching matchups look favorable for the Braves (these matchups are according to the Braves.com “sortable schedule”):

• Tonight: Hudson (7-3, 2.97) vs. Bush (1-5, 6.56) — though Bush did throw 7 innings of 1-run ball in last year’s Hudson vs. Bush game.

• Wednesday: Reyes (2-2, 5.84) vs. Suppan (2-4, 4.47)

• Thursday: Campillo (1-0, 0.86)) vs. McClung (2-1, 3.55)

Overall, that looks like a very winnable series; if Reyes can keep the ball in the park, I’d say a sweep is very possible.

Reds Series:

• Friday: Glavine (2-2, 4.76) vs. Volquez (7-2, 1.31) — yikes.

• Saturday: Jurrjens (5-3, 2.86) vs. Belisle (1-4, 7.28)

• Sunday: not listed yet, though it seems that it would be Hudson vs. Cueto (2-5, 5.56).

This series also looks winnable; with Glavine going against Volquez, I wouldn’t bet on a sweep.

By Shaun

May 27, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

Avatar, Maddux has started all of six road games. Don’t know how meaningful the splits are so far this year. He’s had three not-so-good road starts this year. If you look at ERA+ (which adjusts for league and ballpark) he’s about a league average pitcher and has been for about the last six seasons.

By keylargo

May 27, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

NCGary

RE: Acosta as a starter

Some one mentioned “stretching out Boyer” just a few posts ago. I think if we get 2 or 3 of the 4 injured pitchers back and are faced with DFAing another pitcher, that it is a great idea to have one or both of those guys starting again. Very few people (Divine is an exception) start out as relievers and I bet both would jump at the chance to have a permanent job in the starting rotation.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

May 27, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

Billy Walsh, that trade proposal involving Schaefer and Maddux could have been made because of Schaefer’s HGH use. It has to be at least in the back of the Braves mind that Schaefer’s potential and great strides were at least in part due to HGH. Now, from what I have read and heard HGH is used more for recovery from injuries and prevention of injuries but the book is somewhat out on if it improves performance. However, you have to wonder.

By ncscoots

May 27, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

[Campbell is] The best hope we have for replacing Chipper from within.

Pundits said the same thing about Van Pope a couple of years ago, also. Neither kid has lit it up, as yet, but that’s not to say one of them won’t. IMO, though, the best replacement for Chipper (when he decides to leave) is…Mark Teixeira.

[trading for] Harang is just laughable the more I think about it.

There’s a name for GMs who might pull the trigger on such a trade.

Fired.

By ncgary

May 27, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

talented or not we are at least one starter short with smoltz out of the rotation, and whether he can be replaced by campillo,reyes, stretching out acosta or someone else in minors who knows,

1/2 yr of maddux and hopefully some quality innings eaten would be a godsend at this point if he could be had cheap enough, but at some point if the answers arent already on the farm , it may take a kj or a frenchy to get that arm, both look like professional hitters for a decade to come, is it worth it??

By McFann

May 27, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

or if Reds fans sit around debating whether or not Tim Hudson or Brian McCann would be a better trade for Ken Griffey. FJR

LOL! They’d be outta their minds!

We drove by the Surgarloaf Country Club on our way home from picking up our glasses. Didn’t get a good enough peek at the houses, though…

though Bush did throw 7 innings of 1-run ball in last year’s Hudson vs. Bush game. Daybed

That was the best game of the season, IMHO! A repeat wouldn’t hurt my feelings!

: )

By DAP

May 27, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

daybed wagmoe but, the braves have beaten volquez once this season already! i hope we can beat him but we just need to win those series, and well be doing good.

FJR one good thing that could happen is charlie morton could get called up in september and blow us away. then he could make the postseason roster, and be the power arm in the rotation that we are missing. who knows? its a long season.

By OrlandoFan

May 27, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

Anyone posted this piece from Slate? If not, I thought the denizens might find it interesting. http://www.slate.com/id/2190955

By Randy S

May 27, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

It will be interesting to see how much Diaz plays this next week. The Braves are most likely facing 6 RHPs in a row in these next 2 series. I would expect Blanco to get 4-5 starts in LF and 1 in CF (to rest the Z-man). I have a feeling we are seeing the beginning of Norton grabbing some of Diaz’s remaining ABs in LF.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

LOL,

“let’s be realistic guys” coming from a guy who thinks we can trade for Aaron Harang? Seriously?

The Reds just hired Dusty Baker. They have a lot of talent. They might be out of this year, but do you think their GM is just ready to give up on the next 4 years? That’s how long they have control of Aaron Harang for.

First, lets be clear. Shafer isn’t one of the top prospects in all of baseball. He was our top prospect (but now I’d say that possibly is Charlie Morton). He was probably around the 30th prospect in MLB. Now he’s missed a half year and nobody has any idea how much of his out of nowhere power surge was due to HGH. Remember he wasn’t considered a 5 tool palyer two years ago, he was an all-speed no stick guy who played good defense.

What exactly do you think the Reds are going to take for a pitcher they just signed a four year deal for (plus a club option for a 5th)? Who they aren’t even paying 5 million for this year (he’s making 4.25 mill this year)? What prospects are going to give them more than him over the next 5 years?

You think Shafer and Lillibridge are going to get Harang? I got news for you, the Braves could offer their entire minor league system and it probably wouldn’t get the deal done. This isn’t some pitcher who is going to be a FA next year. Its a guy the club has control of for 5 years. This isn’t some up and coming prospect or a vet at the end of his career, its a guy in his prime who, for two straight years, has thrown over 230 IP, has struck out over 215 batters, has won 16 games on bad teams and has posted 4:1 K:BB ratios.

By TJ

May 27, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

I know it’s tough to call too many prospects “untouchable”, but I would NOT trade Jordan Schafer, Gorkys Hernandez, or Jason Heyward. I think that’s our OF of the future.

I asked Bill Shanks to compare Schafer and Hernandez (nobody’s perfect on projecting prospects, but I think Shanks is pretty close to it, and has a pretty good read). Anyway his take:

Schafer is the better defender (an almost sure GG CF), though Gorkys is outstanding as well. Gorkys probably has a better bat, and more power potential. Both have great speed and tools. And Gorkys will probably have enough pop to move over to LF. He goes so far as to say he expects to see BOTH in the Braves OF in 2009 (or at least he wouldn’t be surprised to see it).

The ‘09 thing may be a little aggressive for Gorkys (imo), but maybe not. And another year or two, Heyward slides into right field.

Anyway, that would give us tremendous speed and defense, and all three should be plus hitters as well. And cheap for years to come. I’d try hard not to break up that possibility.

If we trade any of these guys, it better be for much more than a couple of rental players in the twilight of their careers.

These are 3 great, not good, prospects.

By FloridaBrave

May 27, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

FJR and BravesRule,

I have reservations too about the asking price but as pointed out, he’ll be a FA after the 2009 year and has a long history of injury problems. Obviously opinions vary on Harden because we don’t know what it’ll cost. But if it costs a B level prospect, Yeah, I’d throw a guy like Gorkys Hernandez at the A’s for Harden. Like I said, the injury history is there but if he does get injured, we’ll be rid of him by 2009. But if all goes well, we can ride Harden’s right arm deep into the playoffs and get a co-ace for 2009 at a very cheap cost. I think the reward highly outweighs the risk, but I TOTALLY understand the opposite view.

As for Maddux, I think it’s more wait and see. Whereas Harden would offer a clear upgrade and fills a huge need for next year, Maddux would most likely be a half-year rental and the increase in production might not be worth the cost. I still want to see more of Reyes and Campillo before I decide we need to trade for Maddux. But also something to think about if we do need a starter: Would Maddux present a noticeable upgrade over say inserting Jeff Bennett into the rotation? It may be more cost effective to insert Bennett into the rotation and move Buddy Carlyle into Bennett’s “jack of all trades” role in the bullpen. Just something to think about as I’m not ready to make a decision whether or not we need Maddux yet.

RE: Schafer for Maddux and Giles trade. It fills potential needs that’s for sure but I think that’s a little too much on our end. It’s a good thought but I’d only be on board if the Padres pay for Giles’ team option in ‘09 so we can insure he stays next year(assuming it’s a team option and not a player option).

By Shaun

May 27, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

Robert (Chipper Is The Best), Mets are clearly more talented than the Phillies at third, short and center. But I do agree with Gammons that the Mets are any more talented than the Braves or Phillies.

Don’t know about the Marlins. I still say they are doing it with smoke and mirrors. They rank 7th in on-base and 6th in runs allowed. They’ve only played 14 games against teams with at least a .500 record; the fewest in baseball. They are 7-7 in those games and have been outscored in those games. Not saying it’s impossible but I will be extremely surprised if the Marlins keep this up into July.

TennPaul, I don’t get the idea that ESPN is fascinated with the Mets. I don’t see it. If anything they are fascinated by Yankees-Red Sox because that means more money for them. People pay attention to Yankees-Red Sox, whether we like it or not.

By Random

May 27, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

eric the elder: “Does anyone know what became of our old friend Bob Journalist? I think I heard that Carolina Lady has her own blog (?), but I don’t know where it is. Maybe Bob went there?”

Try this, especially this one.

By RC

May 27, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

Great points FJR. Harang is someone I would not consider available, especially for the price he’d command.

By Efrim

May 27, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

FJR

First, lets be clear. Shafer isn’t one of the top prospects in all of baseball. He was our top prospect (but now I’d say that possibly is Charlie Morton).

Re: Charlie Morton, I know he is having a great year at Triple A, but our “Top Prospect”? I’d say Rohrbough and Hanson have a higher ceiling than Morton. At least that is what the scouts say. And as far as Schafer goes, he is still a “Top Prospect”. The only problem with the suspension is that he missed 50 games worth of development time. He had all the “tools” when he was in Danville and Rome, he just couldn’t put it together. He did in 2007. Only time will tell if the HGH made him what he was last season. To dismiss his “Top Prospect” status this early is a little much.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

Florida Brave,

If Harden comes available for a B prospect, then I’d jump all over it. I just think it takes more than that.

By Goodoleboy58

May 27, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

DOB

Got a question for ya. How closely do the players follow the Allstar voting? I know veterans like Chipper probably don’t think twice about it but how bout B-Mac and Frenchy? Even players like KJ who aren’t going to get the vote because of Chase and Uggla do they follow closely to see who they are behind?

Hopefully everyone is getting out and voting for Yunel on Mlb.com… He deserves to go but has Rollins, Reyes, and Hanley to contend with.

By Tom in NYC

May 27, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

I’m getting a kick out of all of these people who are thinking Thorman is a trade piece in any deal. I mean, first nobody would trade for him from us, so we had to DFA him, to which nobody claimed him if I remember correctly. It’s not like he has been completely mashing in AAA to raise his stock or anything.

By Efrim

May 27, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

FloridaBrave

But if it costs a B level prospect, Yeah, I’d throw a guy like Gorkys Hernandez at the A’s for Harden.

Gorky’s isn’t a B level prospect. Brandon Jones, yes, but not Gorkys. I think that is a guy we should hold onto, as well as Heyward, Hanson, Rohrbough, and Schafer. It would also be wise to keep Morton, Freeman and Locke.

By FloridaBrave

May 27, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Oh, and enough with the trade Lillibridge stuff. The guy doesn’t have much trade value when he’s batting .190 in AAA. It’s similar to James. Everyone wants to trade James but the guy had an ERA over 8.00 in the big leagues. I know you guys like trading players you think suck but you have to give value to get value. Remember that.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

RE: Giles Contract:

9M per year for 07-08

can block trades to 8 clubs and his salary is increased by 2 million per year if he’s traded. ‘09 is a club option.

So he’s at 11 Mill per year for the next two years if traded. I imagine San Diego would potentially eat a lot of that, but eating that much of Maddux and Giles contracts would really suck.

Considering this, I really don’t see the Pads trading Giles. THink about it, they have to eat at least 7 mill of his contract per year to make him marketable. At that rate, you might as well keep him and only pay 9 million. You’re only saving 2 million dollars by trading him.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

Since a lot of people have been asking about contracts on here lately, this site is pretty awesome, its as accurate as any site I’ve ever found and much more comprehensive:

cot’s baseball contracts

By Random

May 27, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

OrlandoFan—

Thanks for the link to the Pat Jordan article.

Did you ever see the one he wrote about Canseco? Pretty funny — check it out.

By FloridaBrave

May 27, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

We’ll have to disagree since I think as a fan you’re overrating out prospects. The only true A level prospect we probably have right now is Jason Heyward. Nothing against the other guys but A level prospects are the best and brightest guys in the minors. Here’s a grading scale done by John Sickels at the beginning of the year:

1. Jason Heyward, OF, Grade B+
2. Jordan Schafer, OF, Grade B+
3. Brandon Jones, OF, Grade B+
4. Tommy Hanson, RHP, Grade B+
5. Joey Devine, RHP, Grade B
6. Brent Lillibridge, SS, Grade B
7. Gorkys Hernandez, OF, Grade B
8. Jair Jurrjens, RHP, Grade B (worried about his health)
9. Cole Rohrbough, LHP, Grade B
   1. Brandon Hicks, SS, Grade B
   2. Jeff Locke, LHP, Grade B-
   3. Steve Evarts, LHP, Grade C+
   4. Jamie Richmond, RHP, Grade C+
   5. Jose Ortegano, LHP, Grade C+
   6. Kris Medlen, RHP, Grade C+
   7. Julio Teheran, RHP, Grade C+ (all hype and scouting reports at this point)
   8. Tyler Flowers, C-1B, Grade C+
   9. Chad Rodgers, LHP, Grade C+
   10. Jose Ascanio, RHP, Grade C+
   11. Cody Johnson, 1B, Grade C+

http://www.minorleagueball.com/story/2007/11/16/15556/735

Now, it’d probably be more like Jason Heyward A- Jordan Schafer B+ Charlie Morton B+ Tommy Hanson B+ Gorkys Hernandez B+ Cole Rohrbough B Julio Teheran B

I’m no expert on our prospects but I just wanted to post that t show a grading scale. But hey, if you’re that high on Hernandez, awesome. I hope you’re right on him. But right now, I wouldn’t say he’s the best and brightest the minor league system has to offer.

By RC

May 27, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

FJR,

Agreed on Cot’s baseball contracts. It’s one of the few sites that also seperates how much salary is being covered by other teams (like how Colorado and Florida were paying a portion of Hampton’s salary for the first few years).

By David O'Brien

May 27, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

TJ, Schafer’s got good speed; Gorkys has great speed.

But he said Gorkys has more power potential than Schafer? No. No scout I’ve talked to has said anything like that. Gorkys is still thin, needs to add some muscle, and has been adding it. Good to very good all-around offensive potential, but power is not a real asset of his. Speed and hit for average, those are.

They both have great arms — Schafer’s is outstanding by major league standards — and very strong overall defensive skills. If either is in left or right field, he might immediately be about as good a defensive player as there is at either of those positions in the National League.

Both are true CFs, but one obviously will have to play elsewhere if Braves keep them both. Most scouts and team officials I’ve talked to rate Schafer’s defensive package ahead of Gorkys’, or almost any other OF prospect.

So much can play out between now and Gorkys’ arrival — and possibly between now and Schafer’s arrival. Got to see how he does the rest of the season, after he gets back this weekend. He has a line-drive swing and, when I saw him, what looked to be 20-25 homer potential in majors.

Of course, we know what’s happened since I saw him all spring and in the Fall League. Unfortunately for him, he’s gonna have to prove it all over again. Which he can do pretty easily — just go out and hit in the second half of the season the way you did last year.

By Coach Smith

May 27, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

FJR

Stop saying that HARANG is signed for 4 years….

He signed 4 year contract BEFORE the 2007 season that was 2 months before his previous contract ended…

He is in the 2nd year of that contract THUS he has 2 years left NOT 4 or 5 as you are claiming

and to whoever made the comment about the REDS firing a GM that would make that trade….THEY ALREADY FIRED A GM THIS YEAR WHO KEPT STANDING PAT EVERY YEAR AND NOT MAKING TRADES

Oh and

By FloridaBrave

May 27, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

I also want to follow up my post that the grading scale is incredibly subjective. Whereas scouts from other teams may feel someone’s a C prospect, the Braves may give him an A grade(Teheran, Morton?) We might see a prospect who’s traded who’s ranked highly at Baseball America but the Braves might have seen some weaknesses in him and doubted his potential. So we’ll see. I think Brandon Jones’ star has fallen a bit after failing to win the LF spot in ST after being given an awesome opportunity. I think he’d be enough to get Maddux but not Harden. I wouldn’t give him a B grade personally and after Spring Training, I’m not sure the Braves would either.

By Bobby's Cox

May 27, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

Harden is one of the top 5 pitchers in baseball when healthy. The A’s are going to trade him this year. They’ve already mentioned it. They may be postponing the inevitable being so close to 1st, but it’s going to happen. He’d be the best pick up of anyone mentioned here.

Harang? No way is he dealt. Have you looked at the Reds roster with Voloquez, Cueto, Harang, Votto, Keppinger, now Jay Bruce? That’s a team waiting to break out. Trading Harang would be a step backward for that team.

Having Maddux back would be nice, only for reunion entertainment. The guy is having problems pitching good consistantly from start to start. No thanks.

Harden’s draws my eye. He’s only 26. True he’s been injury prone, but he’s only 26. I’ll take my chances. Injury prone players have good luck playing for Bobby Cox. See JD Drew and Mark Kotsay.

By ncscoots

May 27, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

I’m afraid Shanks is indulging in a little wishful thinking, re the pop in Gorkys Hernandez’s bat. Not the first time Bill has populated a future Braves’ team with 25 current prospects, though, LOL.

Hernandez would have to fill out something fierce to become a power corner OF bat. Might happen, I guess, but his frame doesn’t look as if that’s in his future.

By RC

May 27, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

As unpopular an idea (or maybe popular with some one this blog) it might seem, I could really see the Braves moving Francouer at some point in the future. As it stands now the Braves system is flush with good outfield prospects (B. Jones, Shafer, Heywood, Gorkys, possibly even Lillibridge) and Francouer is expecting a LOT of $$ in arbitration and free agency. Think about the two OF setups below:

Heywood, Schafer/Gorkys, Francouer or B. Jones, Schafer/Gorkys, Heywood + $$ from Francouer’s contract and prospects in a trade

I’m not saying that the Braves are looking to trade him, or even that they’d want to trade him, but if the prospects in our system continue to mature, the economics of baseball could very easily dictate that Frenchy’s time in Atlanta is limited.

By Paddy McGillicutty

May 27, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

Being the DFW Ambassador for the DOB/ MIB blog, Rangers fans aren’t exactly in the “build for the next few years mode”. This is a team that Peter Gammons calls one of the more interesting teams right now…that being mainly because of Josh Hamilton. JD and Tom Hicks are going to do what they have to to keep the Hambino in the Mighty Metroplex for the next 10 yrs.+. With that being said, and IF we had to piece together another ATL/ TEX trade, maybe you could have a Diaz/Thornton package (plus a reliever prospect) for Kevin Millwood once he comes back and shows some health. They could use a 1st baseman/ 3rd baseman (if Blalock moves to 1st) and an upgrade to Marlon Byrd.

By keylargo

May 27, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Brian Giles is 37 years old.

He hit 17 HR in 1997. 16 in 1998. Then he goes 39, 35, 37, 38.

Then he drops off to 20, 23, 15, 14, 13.

He has 3 this year.

Marcus Giles was strongly rumored to be using HGH and is out of the game.

Marcus and his brother Brian are very close.

I don’t want him on this team for any price, much less $11M.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith,

He has 2008, 2009 and 2010 left on his contract, plus the club has an option for 2011.

Sorry I said the club controlled him for 5, its just 4 more years that the Reds control him.

By Efrim

May 27, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

FloridaBrave

Sickels grading system is different than most. What he calls a C+ prospect, is a B prospect for other publications. He has said this(actually, I think you can find it on his site). I think the Braves have 2-3 great prospects, 5-7 very good prospects and a lot of good ones. I’m not sure if Sickels did organizatonal rankings, but Baseball America did and the Braves were 8th. They have a very deep system with a lot of toolsy OF’s and projectable pitchers.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

Bobby’s Cox,

its kind of laughable to say that injury proen players have good luck with Cox, we do, after all, have Mike Hampton on our roster.

By eric the elder

May 27, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

Random Many thanks for the link.

By Daybed Wagmoe

May 27, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

DAP — you’re right, the Braves have already beaten Volquez once this year. That was with Hudson throwing a 3-hit shutout and McCann hitting a two-run homer (after Chipper got on by a really bad Correy Patterson two-base error). I like Glavine and think he’s pitched just okay this year (sorry, but 45.3 IP in 9 starts isn’t very impressive for a guy the Braves “penciled in” for 200 innings), but in that matchup and at that ballpark (Glav has given up 7 HR in those 9 starts), I would not expect the Braves to win.

However, Glavine has pitched very well on the road this year, and he has a 3.60 ERA (compared to 6.20 at home) in 4.7 more IP. So maybe he’ll impress. I hope he will, although Volquez is 5-0 with a 1.44 ERA at home.

By Coach Smith

May 27, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

FJR

This IS 2008 so that is not “left” on the contract…So AFTER this year he HAS 2 YEARS (FOR CERTAIN)left on the contract…

there is a CLUB option…BUT it also stipulates if he is traded that option becomes a MUTUAL option….

Also you claim it is 4-6 million dollars…That is true ONLY UP UNTIL THE END of THIS SEASON…

After that he won’t be so “cheap” for the REDS

After this year HARANG’s salary goes to 11 mil, then 12.75 mil

Almost 13 mil a year for a pitcher (ONE PLAYER) is A TON for a team who have an average TEAM payroll of 60-65 million

That’s pushing 20-25% of a total payroll for one player when you will also have to be …

REPLACING 2 Big Time Starting OUTFIELDERS (Griffey/Dunn),

Hattieberg the starting 1B will be a FA, Encarnocion 3B is a FA, starting Catcher VALENTINE is a FA, Whethers, Patterson, and FREEL will also be FA..

That is a TON OF HOLES TO FILL….On a small budget….

If they could free up salary and fill 3-4 spots at the same time..with one player (especially with young pitchers Bill Bray, Homer Bailey, and Volquez….

It would actually be the smarter move

By Bobby's Cox

May 27, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

FJR

Hampton wasn’t injury prone before he got here. My point is that when the braves sign or trade for injury prone players, they fit in quite well playing in Cox’s system.

Hampton had few minor leg injuries while here, but TJ surgery has been his downfall. All his injuries since have been a result of TJ surgery, maybe even down to the pec.

You sound down on Hampton like most on here. Last I checked, he’s still a brave. I’m still rooting for him and hoping he contributes.

By Allen

May 27, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

Not so sure that B. Giles would be a good fit with the Braves. I’ve always been curious/suspicous of the drastic drop in the power numbers. I know he still hits for a good avg, I’m just saying. But hey, he’s got his hair like he likes it!

I’d love to have Maddux back.

By FloridaBrave

May 27, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

Fair enough, but is Hernandez still one of those “great prospects?” I’d say he’s our 5th best prospect right now and needs to develop more power/rake at Double A before I’d give him an A. I like Hernandez too but I wouldn’t give him the A grade yet. But he’s still young. Either way it was a hypothetical, but we do have some surplus in the OF right now which I’d rather trade before our pitching.

By ncscoots

May 27, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

DOB, you’re right, all Schafer has to do is duplicate last year’s phenomenal stats in the second half. Unfortunately, he has to do it one level up, at the level at which almost all young phenoms get a taste of reality, and after giving the rest of his classification a 50-game leg-up.

If he does such a thing, I’d pencil him in the 2009 big club lineup beginning November 1, because that would be quite an achievement. But that seems a lot to ask of a young man.

Unfortunate, too, because any slight regression he might suffer is almost certainly going to be blamed on the HGH thing, or, at least, looked upon with raised eyebrow; not, instead, because AA is the biggest step up, other than MLB, in the player’s development.

I wish the kid luck, he’s gonna need some.

By Josh from Columbus

May 27, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

OrlandoFan,

Great article. I think we have been fortunate as Braves fan to not have THAT many players that seem as stand-offish as Beckett. The only players that come to mind (and this is even stretching it) are Ryan Klesko, Rafael Furcal, Greg Maddux and Edgar Renterria. Think about the caliber of players we have had here that seem so willing to let us into their lives: Glavine, Smoltzie, Chipper, Tex, Frenchy, Mac, Huddy, et cetera.

By MGL

May 27, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Daybed - At least Volquez is a righty.

By Coach Smith

May 27, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Daybed

That Starts to Innings pitched stat on Glavine is not fair considering he left one start before recording a single out….

That throws the stats you pointed out…out of whack…

Take that start out and you have nearly 46 innings in 8 starts…which is NEARLY 6 innings per start

By FJR

May 27, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith,

My point was that the Reds can control him for 4 more years not waht his option will be if he’s traded (I generally count the current year as a year if you’re not even 1/3 way through the season).

There is a reason you are the only person who has talked about trading Harang. Nobody in teh Reds organization or that follows the Reds has, nobody who follows baseball generally has, nobody has. Its just not going to happen. Maybe next year if the Reds are still struggling, but the reds are built to win in the next 2-3 years. Sure they have a few holes to fill, but they also have one of the top 10 closers, the best second baseman in MLB, MLB’s #1 prospect just called up to take an outfield spot and they have a dynamite rotation.

If they trade Harang, the fans will be left to wonder “If we’re not trying to win until after 2011, when exactly are we going to try to win?”

You can keep believeing that Harang is out there to be had in a trade, no skin off my back, but don’t be shocked when he’s not traded this year. Its just like that guy who swore up and down that the Twins signed Joe Nathan in order to trade him earlier this year. Its just not how baseball works.

By Goodoleboy58

May 27, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith I’m pretty sure the Reds and Joey Votto are solid at 1B

By FJR

May 27, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Bobby’s Cox,

I still pull for Hampton. I think he’s a likeable guy and I feel somewhat bad for him (as much as you can feel bad for a guy making 15 mill), but its hard to deny his injury problems, that was my only point. I hope we get something out of him this year, but I’m not counting on it in any way, shape or form.

By macdwolfpack

May 27, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

DOB, having seen both Schaeffer and Hernandez over the last two seasons, I have to concur that Hernandez does appear to have more power potential than Schaeffer. I see Schaeffer as more of a Kotsay than an Andruw Jones. A Kotsay with a whole lot of speed but similar offensive skills other than base stealing. Hernandez appears to me to have both Speed(now) and very good power potential. Hernandez has though thin strong forearms and what appear to be quick wrists. Now both are very young with great potential to reshape greatly their bodies as time goes on. But those are my assessments so far.

By Efrim

May 27, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

FloridaBrave

He had a great 87 at bats in Myrtle Beach to start the year. He has missed the last month with a hamstring injury and it is anyone’s guess what that will do to his developmental process. I agree with you, we do have a surplus in the OF, and pitching is the key to success.

I think someone earlier mentioned Brandon Jones for Greg Maddux, that is the most I’d be willing to give up for the guy.

By Chop Chop

May 27, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

I think that Coach Smith is tilting at the windmills of his own mind.

By Shamus Thacker

May 27, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Dayummmm, never seen so many looong posts. I coulda read War And Peace in less time.

Since everything Braves has been discussed to triple redundancy EXCEPT THIS, I’ll go ahead and ask.

Hows about Hammy?

Ha-Ha He-He AAAAAAAAHHHH HA HA HA HA [hands slapping knees] AAAAAHHHHHHHH HA HA HA HA HA HA HA

LETS GO BRAVES!!!

By Shaun

May 27, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

keylargo, Giles is a perfect example of what Petco can do to someone’s power numbers. While it’s true he’s not the power hitter he once was, a) his value is greatly tied into his on-base ability and b) his slugging percentage of the last three years is still respectable at around the .480 range away from Petco.

2005-2007 home - .257/.369/.377

2005-2007 road - .298/.404/.481

Petco has eaten his stats alive.

Giles is just behind Chipper in career on-base percentage. Chipper is 47th all-time and Giles is at 49.

The Braves offense would be amazing with a player like Brian Giles thrown in the mix.

Not saying they should trade for him, mind you. That would depend on what they would have to give up.

By Daybed Wagmoe

May 27, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith

You’re right. I meant to include a note in there about that one start with 0 innings, but I forgot to. All the same, a start’s a start, and you’re right that 45.3 IP in 9 starts can be a bit misleading, but that’s what it is.

45.3 innings in 8 starts is 5.6625 IP per start, which would round out to about 5 2/3 IP per start. Over the course of the whole year, that’s still not going to get 200 IP. I know that he’ll have some 7-inning games and maybe even a few 8-inning games sprinkled in here and there, but the fact that he hasn’t gotten out of the 5th inning three times (two if you don’t count the 0 inning start) makes me think that we’ll see roughly the same number of longer outings as shorter outings.

I hope I’m wrong. I’m not Glavine-bashing here, and I hope that he is able to get close to 200 innings and pitch effectively — his success is the Braves’ success.

By Bobby's Cox

May 27, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

Efrim

B. Jones for maddux. Well said. That’s as much i’d be willing to give up for him too.

FJR

adreed.

By Random

May 27, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

eric the elder —

You’re very welcome.

I actually meant “especially this one”, but I’m sure you’ve found it by now.

If not, there you go.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

May 27, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I agree with you about Giles. He is an excellent on-base pct. guy. Who cares if he hits homers. He doesn’t need to. Bat him second behind Escobar and the Braves for sure have the best offense in the NL if not entire majors. Escobar, Giles, Chipper, Tex, McCann, Francoeur, Johnson, and Kotsay is one helluva a good powerful BALANCED lineup. Not to mention I suspect Giles’ homer numbers would go up some because he is going to see plenty of good pitches hitting ahead of Chipper.

Alas, it will never happen however. For one thing he makes more money than he is really worth and the Padres are likely to ask a lot for him because somebody (ie: Indians, Cards, and Blue Jays) are likely willing to overpay to get him.

By David O'Brien

May 27, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

DOB, having seen both Schaeffer and Hernandez over the last two seasons, I have to concur that Hernandez does appear to have more power potential than Schaeffer.macdwolfpack

Really? Then you’re seeing something I sure am not seeing.

Gorkys has 15 homers in 972 minor league at-bats, including 4 in 481 at-bats last season in A-ball for the Tigers and 2 in 81 at-bats so far this season for Myrtle Beach.

Where exactly are you seeing this big power potential? How on earth can you see more power potential from a guy who’s done that compared to a guy (Schafer) who is merely ONE YEAR OLDER and hit 8 homers in 2006 and 15 homers in 2007, and who stung plenty of line drives all spring against some pretty good major league pitchers?

Sorry, but I just haven’t seen what you’re seeing, or heard from any team officials what you’re saying. Gorkys is a great prospect, but power isn’t his game. Speed and defense and hitting for a potentially higher average are.

Power’s not Schafer’s main asset, either, but he’s got more of it than Hernandez. Unless and until he doesn’t perform after returning from his suspension, I’ll go on what I’ve seen and the numbers they’ve put up, and what the scouts I talked to at the Arizona Fall League told me they thought Schafer could become, a 20-25 homer type guy.

By FloridaBrave

May 27, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

Yeah, that was me. Like I said, I think Jones’ star has dimmed a bit as he was outplayed by Blanco in the spring. Kotsay’s played very well and we have two other OF prospects(Schafer and Hernandez) who will be knocking on the door in 2009 and another(Heyward) in 2010. I don’t see Jones getting a fair shake here so it makes sense to deal him to San Diego where he could probably start the very day he gets there.

And Hernandez has looked good so far. I’m excited for his return within the week.

BTW, this is random but how about Brandon Hicks?! He’s been bombing at a place notoriously known to be pitcher-friendly. He could get his BA up and cut down on the strike outs(two things that could be connected), but his OPS is through the roof and he’s apparently very solid with the glove. He’s blocked by Yunel so he may either play 2B if Kelly’s moved, be the guy to take over for Chipper at 3B, or be a valuable trading piece.

Speaking of Chipper’s replacement at 3B, I saw some people talking about Campbell and Pope. I think we can rule those two guys out. I love Pope’s D but he still hasn’t shown he can hi enough to be a ML 3B and Campbell-albeit super talented- is a head case.

By Random

May 27, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

DAP: “FJR one good thing that could happen is charlie morton could get called up in september and blow us away. then he could make the postseason roster, and be the power arm in the rotation that we are missing.”

Wouldn’t he have to be called up prior to Sep roster expansion to be eligible for the post-season?

Bobby’s Cox: “FJR You sound down on Hampton like most on here. Last I checked, he’s still a brave. I’m still rooting for him and hoping he contributes.”

Hear, hear!! I guess we all need to be reminded of that from time to time.

I’m with you.

FJR — So, do you, like, you know, have the inside edge on the AFLAC Trivia Question? (“I was a research assistant for an insurance lawyer who consults for the Nationals”)

8P

By Efrim

May 27, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

Maddux and Giles? Since San Diego’s system is pretty terrible, the Braves could probably get away with giving up more quantity than quality. Brandon Jones, Eric Barrett, and Brandon Hicks? Not sure if that would get it done, but again, keep in mind that San Diego has one of the worst farm systems in the league.

By Efrim

May 27, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

BTW, this is random but how about Brandon Hicks?! He’s been bombing at a place notoriously known to be pitcher-friendly. He could get his BA up and cut down on the strike outs(two things that could be connected), but his OPS is through the roof and he’s apparently very solid with the glove. He’s blocked by Yunel so he may either play 2B if Kelly’s moved, be the guy to take over for Chipper at 3B, or be a valuable trading piece.

I have been trying to get a recent scouting report on the kid. Mixed reviews on him though.

By DAP

May 27, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

whatever the rule is, you know what i mean, random.

By Coach Smith

May 27, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

FJR

You think the Reds are loaded and ready to contend now and for the next 2 years

LOL LOL LOL

A team that has 4-5 starting players including most of their power leaving and that many Free Agents…Not to mention they have already fired a GM this season…And they are built to CONTEND now???

LOL and you attacked me and made fun of me for my comments?

As for nobody talking about the Harang thing but me….MOST of the BRAVES’ trades have been quite or blindside deals that nobody was talking about nor saw comming…That is their MO

A bunch of fans and talking heads don’t have to be talking about a trade scenario to make it possible

By Allen

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

Shaun,

Turner Field is not much better ,when it comes to hitter friendly, then Petco. A ballpark is not gonna make the type of difference that Giles expereinced. It didn’t hurt Mike Cameron when he was there. Didn’t hurt Piazza when he was there either. All there power numbers were comparible with there previous teams.

By Random

May 27, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

Ryan Lavner: “Omar Infante will start at third base [this past Sunday]. Infante, who is batting .275 in 40 at-bats this season, also played third when Jones missed the two games in April.” (Ryan Lavner is an associate reporter for MLB.com.)

And some people here trash Mark Bowman???

By Renegator

May 27, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Carroll’s got a new blog up.

By Random

May 27, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

I’m not sure what the rule is myself, DAP — wasn’t trying to be “snarky” OR a smart-axe.

Just axin’.

By Renegator

May 27, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Carroll’s got a new blog up.

By DAP

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

allen what shaun was trying to tell you is that giles is a good offensive player despite his drop in homer totals. he hits alot of doubles, walks alot, has a great OBP, and hits for average. he is also a pretty decent fielder.

honestly, if he were right handed, id say we need to get him.

By OrlandoFan

May 27, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

JOSH: My thoughts, exactly, we are spoiled by the Braves and by the insights that DOB provides on this blog. The fact that Chipper came aboard in this day and age is unique. I can’t think of too many players who would do that, even the guys who are known to be open. I thought Jordan’s article provided quite the contrast.

By FJR

May 27, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

Coach smith,

Me and most of the baseball world thinks that the Reds can contend in the central next year. They have the #1 overall prospect (rated above Evan Longoria) going to the outfield next year, Joey Votto at 1B, Brandon Phillips at 2B and they’ll have some free money in the off season. Most importantly the Reds management believes they can contend next year, if not this year.

We’ll keep that vigil out for this aaron harang trade you believe is immiment though. It’ll happen dawg, and you can say you scooped everybody.

By THB

May 27, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

DOB-I know there’s a new blog up but it’s Carroll’s blog, so here goes. What I said was:

*N8-Man you are an entertainer. It’s just fun to read your posts whether you’re making a point or complaining about the Braves.

Anyway, read up there about our connection with the Royals. I don’t think they’d part with Greinke yet, but he would be an increible pickup. I would be pretty damn happy with Bannister too. But we’re probably gonna have to settle for Maddux.

If we can get Chris Young, Zach Greinke, Brian Bannister, Rich Hll, or Rich Harden without giving up Schafer, Heywerd, or Morton, then I’d say DO IT. By the way has anyone considered trading for Rich Hill? I know he was brought up as a piece in a Brian Roberts trade, maybe we could snag him. What would the Cubs want? Bullpen help? Another outfielder?

The Padres need a lot of help. Lillibridge might be an attractive piece, since theyre looking to trade Khalil Greene. The Royals also need a SS, as well as some other positions, especially a power bat. The A’s would probably want some near major league ready players, most likely Schafer and Morton.

What is smarter? Smaller trade for Maddux and hope it’s enough now ora bigger trade that will help us in the coming years too?

I bolded the without. Just wanted to point that out. You sort of misread what I said. You jumped on me for saying we should trade Morton, but I meant we shouldn’t. Just wanted to clear that up.

By Overlord

May 27, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

Cant we win it if it is a 1 run game? this is not about the bullpen…….

Why is hudson still in??????

cox sux.

By Overlord

May 27, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

2nd time this year I see KJ make a great play at 2B, this time in fould territory….. OVERLORD APPLAUDS!!!

By Overlord

May 27, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

i think KJ is hitting .250 since being moved to the 2nd slot…..

Does that rings a bell cox??????

please……….dont be so freakin dumb!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By LOST-BRAVE

May 28, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this

D.O.B. I CAN TAKE A JOKE AND A GOOD RIBBING,AS WELL AS ANY ONE BUT I REALLY DID THINK THIS BLOG YOU HAVE WAS FOR EVERY BRAVE FAN TO POST THEIR THOUGHT’S,BUT SIR. BECAUSE YOU HAVE ALLOWED OTHER BLOGGERS TO CURSE ME ON THIS SITE, AFTER THEY AGREED TO THE SAME RULES AS I DID WHEN THEY SINGED UP AT A.J.C.COM, I HAVE NO RESPECT LEFT FOR YOU OR ANY BLOG SITE THAT YOU MAY HAVE A PART OF.AS A TICKET HOLDER OF THE BRAVES, I WAS JUST EXPRESSING MY THOUGHTS,I HAVE NOT CURSED ANY BLOGGER AND I WILL NOT STOOP THAT LOW.SO I WILL JUST CONTENUE MY BLOGGING ON THE CHOP-CHICK SITE WHERE I DO NOT GET CURSED OUT FOR MY OPINION.YOUR OPINION DOES NOT MEAN A HILL OF BURNT BEANS TO ME ANY LONGER.

By LOST-BRAVE

May 29, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

BET you guy’s thought I WAS GONE BUT GUESS WHAT I’M NOT.JUST LETTING MY FRIEND CHARLIEALPHABRAVO WHICH I’D LIKE TO KNOW ARE YOU MILITARY OR JUST A WANTTABE?sir i know good and well that the braves did not sign hampton,just that our great g.m. made one of the dumbest trades in baseball historytrading for him.do’nt know how old you are but when j.s. got angry with the k.c. royal’s he destoyed them by trading away all of the young talent in their minor leauge system for injured over the hill players and guess what the royals still have not recovered,do’es the pattern look the same in atlanta.last year when the braves had the chance to get help from the insurance on hampton j.s. and his holyness bobby cox said it wasn’t the right thing to do? N8- SIR. GLAD TO BE OF SERVICE TO YOU FOR D.O.B. I KNOW THAT YOU JUST CANNOT OR WILL NOT ASK THE REAL HARD QUESTION’S FROM ANY PLAYER FOR THE FEAR THE PLAYER’S WILL NO LONGER TALK TO YOU.AND THE SAME GO’ES FOR THE BRAVES MANAGEMENT,YOU JUST GO BY THE PRESS RELEASES THEY GIVE YOU IN THE 1-3-5-7-AND 9th INNING’S,BUT AS A REPORTER YOU ARE IN A WAY LETTING DOWN YOUR READERS.OH BY THE WAY I CAN TAKE ALL THE CRITICISM,JOKING,RIBBING ANYONE WANT’S TO THROW MY WAY OVER MY BLOGS, BUT I WILL NO LONGER ACCEPT NOR TOLORATE BEING CURSED FOR MY OPIOION ON THIS SITE AT ALL. I HAVE AND I WILL REPORT ALL INCIDENT’S,AND FOR THE CAPITALS, EVEN WITH MY GLASSES IT’S THE ONLY WAY I CAN SEE MOST OF THE TIME.