AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > May > 27 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USMilwaukee’s not at its best
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Let’s hope this road trip goes better than my landing this morning…Greetings from Milwaukee, where some winds coming off Lake Michigan had us doing a little less-than-smooth-sailing on my flight in. We landed with a serious thud.
A girl with a Georgia sweatshirt on the flight squealed, which gave us a way to break with the tension by laughing. But I’m telling you, the pilots didn’t even open the door to the cockpit to tell us goodbye and thanks as we got off the plane. Embarrassed, perhaps?
The flight attendant did get on the overhead thing and say “Everybody awake now?” Hey, good for her. It got a laugh out of me.
Well, surely the Braves got here a little more smoothly and slept soundly last night and woke up ready to break this ridiculous road thing. They woke up to temperatures today in the 40s, which I’m thinking isn’t such a great sign, though.
Yes it’s in the 40s still this afternoon. Didn’t we just celebrate the unofficial beginning of summer yesterday with Memorial Day? Won’t this weather just remind the Braves they’re a long ways from Atlanta and the summer-like weather they had on their 8-3 homestand?
I really hope they did what Jeff Francoeur was threatening to, bring a white jersey to hang in their lockers. Something they can laugh at - like the flight attendant gave us - to break up some of this tension.
And hey, it’s gotta (excuse me, Biff, I mean got to) be hard to get blisters in weather these next few days in the 40s (gulp), then 50s and 60s. Right? (It’s Jo-Jo Reyes, Jorge Campillo and now Jurrjens?!)
I’m pretty sure by now you’ve seen the home and road numbers fleshed out in every which way in all their glory, so I’ll spare you. Instead we look to the brighter side and dig around for some reasons for optimism that this terrible road run will turn around, as the Braves begin this six-game swing through Milwaukee and Cincinnati, other than surely the whole law of averages catching up thing.
Milwaukee enters this series having lost 15 of their past 23. Their closer Eric Gagne just went on the disabled list and their manager Ned Yost got lumped in today in a USA Today article today talking about managers coming under heat. Willie Randolph and Seattle’s John McLaren were the others.
The Brewers have had some road struggles of their own, going 4-6 on a recent road trip and losing 12 of their last 16 away from home.
The Braves took five of seven from the Brewers last year, including two out of three at Miller Park. Yes, that’s where John Smoltz’s trapezius muscle problems first surfaced. But from what I’ve been reading, Smoltz and Rafael Soriano both have a shot to be activated on this trip. Soriano is throwing a bullpen today. I’ll have updates on all that as it comes. (I’m not at the ballpark yet, as I type this, for those who’ll want instant answers.)
Meantime, the Braves will see some old pals this series….Russell Branyan, who played his high school baseball and Warner Robins and Stratford Academy (I know, I covered him in high school, thanks very much), signed a minor league deal with the Brewers this spring and just got called up from AAA Nashville this weekend. He of the mighty swing and the lack-o-fear of the strikeout will play some third base vs. right-handers, given Bill Hall’s struggles against them (.158 compared to .409 against lefties).
(Branyan was hitting .359 in AAA with 12 homers and 36 RBIs in 45 games.)
I coulda sworn Branyan played some with the Braves, but he’s not listed on the all-time roster and would have been had he played in one official game. So my memory fails, and he must have been cut right out of the spring training he spent with the Braves. Of course, I can’t remember what year that was either. Someone, anyone?
Also the Brewers are about to sign reliever Julian Tavares (pending a physical). Who could forget the tearful shots of him in the Cleveland dugout at the end of the 1995 World Series? He was just released by Boston, but the Brewers need some arms for their ailing bullpen.
And the good news on the horizon in Cincinnati? The Braves swept three from the Reds May 2-4, granted at Turner Field. It’s also supposed to be warmer this weekend. Meantime, let’s hope they close the roof tonight in Milwaukee. (Yes, I’m a wimp.)
If you haven’t noticed by now, and some surely have, I haven’t been around the team much lately to gather new stuff for the blog. DOB covered the last NINE games in a row, and is somewhere trying to work the carpal tunnel syndrome out of his hands and wrists, perhaps by cruising on his motorcyle.
For me to find blog fodder after so long away, I just had to dig a little deeper in the notebook. And this is what I came up with. When the Padres were in town, I went over the chatted with Maddux for a while and never used it. So allow me now.
Among the things we talked about was Bobby Cox and whether or not he might really retire.
I had been thinking Bobby might stick to what he’d said a year ago in spring training, that he was still thinking about hanging it up at the end of this season but didn’t want to say yet, because it would make everything harder on the Braves as far as trying to sign players, etc. I mentioned this to M-dog and he just gave me one of those twisted looks, like “what the heck are you talking about?”
“I’ll believe it when I see it,” he said. Turns out he was right. Interesting news last week that Bobby’s sticking around at least through 2009. Congratulations to him. I know there’s one four-time Cy Young award winner, who respects him like no other.
While I might have been wrong this time about Bobby, I wasn’t wrong when I - unlike the Braves front office - predicted Maddux would accept arbitration in 2003 to play one more year for Cox.
Here’s what Maddux had to say about his former manager:
“There were no gimmicks. It was baseball. And he did whatever he thought helped his players win. The players never once thought he made a decision based on how it looked, or how it was perceived. All his decisions were based on, does it give us a better chance to win. I think players really appreciated that.”
And more…
“He always made excuses for me when I messed up,” Maddux said. “He always took heat off me and never put heat on me. He allowed me to enjoy the game both on and off the field, went out of his way to see that that happened.”
And, as I suggested, got ejected a few times on Maddux’s behalf?
“Just one that was my fault,” Maddux said. “I said something to an umpire that I shouldn’t have said and he got kicked out.”
And then he laughed. Just like Cox did when I told him Maddux said Cox got kicked out only once on his behalf. Maddux must have meant only one time that Bobby literally jumped in and took an ejection Maddux would have definitely gotten. Cause we can all think of a few more, can’t we.?
Catcher’s box in Milwaukee rings a bell. County Stadium. Eddie Perez behind the plate. Angel Hernandez umpiring. Broadcasters had been booted off the charter for pointing out a discrepancy in the catcher’s box drawn for Maddux at home. Or soon would be. Right?
Anyway… It’s Miller time. I’ll get you updated once I get to the park.
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Comments
By 18 Wheels of Love
May 27, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Peterbilt Peterbilt
By TURTSNAP
May 27, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Ah, Milwaukee….. Home of breweries and Bratwurst, MMMMMMM
By Belvedere
May 27, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
Must’ve been back in Maddux’s “Chicks Dig the Long Ball” phase..”
By BravesinTN
May 27, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
Nice cheap beer reference in the title! Well played! If and when Soriano, Smoltz and Gonzales return, who gets sent down/traded?
By pfunkatl2
May 27, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
let’s throw-off the road ghosts this trip, should be fairly easy to go AT LEAST 500 against these two guys. Let’s hope the DL boys come back strong, and hopefully we can get to like 10 or 15 games over 500 soon and gain some REAL ground!
By Steve McP
May 27, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
I do hope that they close the roof and put the heating on - The Braves have not won a game this season when the starting temp was below 60!
By H-Ram
May 27, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
Ms.Rogers brings her good luck home CHARM to the Road!!!Welcome back and that record of yours too…
By AdamWest
May 27, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
Branyan was signed on Feb 5, 2004 by the Braves and then traded on April 25th to Cleveland for Scott Sturkie - a minor league deal. Looks like he either didn’t make the major league team.
By AdamWest
May 27, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
Branyan was signed on Feb 5, 2004 by the Braves and then traded on April 25th to Cleveland for Scott Sturkie - a minor league deal. Looks like he didn’t make the major league team.
By lexbrave
May 27, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
CR - the braves signed Branyan in January of ‘04 and traded him to Cleveland that April for a PTBN
By Mr. Enigma
May 27, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
Both Russell Branyan and Gary Matthews Jr. were non-roster invitees to spring training in 2004. Both were cut before the season started.
Branyan was signed because 2004 was the year they were going to try and use Mark DeRosa as the everyday third baseman, keeping Chipper in left field. I think it would be fair to say that didn’t work out.
Matthews looked terrible both offensively and defensively, which makes me scratch my head at his later success. What could have caused this Huge, Gigantic Happening?
By Randy S
May 27, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
So, when the pilots didn’t come out to take questions after the flight did the stewardesses “throw them under the plane”? Did one say, “Why are the passengers sitting here talking to me? I didn’t fly the plane today. Go talk to them (motioning toward the cockpit). Oh they’re not there? Big surprise.”
By chuckw/deadjournalist
May 27, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
Branyon was in spring training in ‘04
By Carroll Rogers
May 27, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
thanks you guys for the Branyan refreshers. Isn’t it weird to think about Gary Mathews Jr being a - gulp - brave?
By Gary
May 27, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
I hope the Brewers are just what the doctor ordered for the Braves on the road. Now’s as good a time as any for them to snap out of their travel troubles. Nice to hear former Braves and future Hall of Famers say for the record what we already know, Cox is the best manager in baseball. He can stay as long as he wants.
By ncscoots
May 27, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
And, Allen, just to be upfront, this has nothing to do with you, my man, I just couldn’t resist revisiting an old blog joke, LOL.
[Playing at Petco] didn’t hurt Mike Cameron when he was there.
dare I say it?
“…only if the numbers are park-adjusted.”
By lexbrave
May 27, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
i vividly remember matthews, jr play that spring and needless to say i was shocked to see him put up the kinds of numbers he put up later on in his career. i know i for one was convinced he was taking something illegal.
By How bout MADDOG?
May 27, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
TO: CARROLL Do you think MADDOG would like to come back and go out as a BRAVE? Do U think Frank Wren would/will do that? Did or has MADdux ever mentioned about what team hat he wiil wear into the HALL OF FAME? Obviously I miss our DOG and hope he will return. Thanks.
By ernesto
May 27, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
Forget the symbolic white jerseys, we’ve got CR and her what 9 and 3 winning record?
That alone should break the curse.
By Eric
May 27, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
Branyan signed with the Braves but never appeared in a game. We traded him in April, but you may have seen him play during spring training.
Details:
February 5, 2004: Signed as a Free Agent with the Atlanta Braves.
April 25, 2004: Traded by the Atlanta Braves to the Cleveland Indians for Scott Sturkie (minors).
By Pete H.
May 27, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Matthews Jr. is giving Andruw a run for his money as most overpaid CF in baseball. He’s hitting .218. And I see that he’s now listed as a LF, which indicates you’re right about his defense, which has usually been good to excellent.
He sure signed a long-term contract at the right time, eh?
By jamie in richmond
May 27, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
Gary,
Here here! If Bobby wants to manage until he’s 95, alright by me. Scratch that..if he retires anytime BEFORE he’s 95, I’ll be hugely disappointed! :)
By GT80
May 27, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this
CR, just make sure they don’t wear the blue jerseys Maybe you could sneak in the locker room and steal a few if they bring them out.
By Chop Chop
May 27, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
(In honor of Milwaukee…)
One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight.
The Braves…are on…the road…it’s time to win some games!
They’re gonna do it!
Throw them any balls, they’ll take ‘em.
Hang them any junk, they’ll bang it.
They’re gonna make our dreams come true.
Doin’ it their way.
Nothin’s gonna turn them back now,
The road’s ahead; they’re on the track now.
They’re gonna make our dreams come true,
Doin’ it their way.
There is nothing they won’t try,
Different unis? Not impossible.
This time there’s no stopping them.
They’re gonna do it.
On your mark, get set, and go now,
We’ve got a dream and they just know now,
They’re gonna win some road games now!
And they’ll do it their way, yes, their way.
Make all of our dreams come true,
And do it their way, yes, their way,
Make all of our dreams come true!
Road wins, thank you!
By TrboDawg
May 27, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
NON BASEBALL QUESTION
Carroll,
Do you know if the Braves/MIB blog will be available on the Amazon Kindle device? I’m looking at purchasing one, but don’t want to spend $360.00 on a inferior device. Have you heard anything about this device? Thanks
By BravesFanTrappedinOR
May 27, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
DOB-
February 5, 2004: Signed as a Free Agent with the Atlanta Braves.
April 25, 2004: Traded by the Atlanta Braves to the Cleveland Indians for Scott Sturkie (minors).
You were correct. He didn’t last long. Got a shot during spring training and then went to Richmond.
By RC
May 27, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this
Pete H.,
It’s unfair to say that Matthews defense must be slipping because he’s now listed as LF. In case you’ve forgotten, the Twins signed Torii Hunter over the offseason. I dare say there isn’t a player in MLB that wouldn’t be moved from CF to LF to accomodate Hunter.
All that being said, I’m glad that Matthews contract is the Angels’ problem and not the Braves’.
By Reid in EAV
May 27, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
Randy S — LOL! Wouldn’t it be great if we could all pull out our “Wagner” in situations that really call for it?
“This dumb decision? Why are you talking to me about it? I didn’t make it. Go talk to my boss about it (motioning toward office). Oh, he’s not there. Big surprise.”
By Coach Smith
May 27, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
CARROLL
didn’t I see you say (a while back) that COX really likes AARON HARANG?
He just seems like the perfect fit for this ball club NO MATTER THE COST
By RC
May 27, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
Carroll,
Has there been any news out of the Braves offices of who they are taking a look at in the upcoming Amatuer draft? I would guess they probably don’t divulge any information, especially with the first pick this low (in the 60’s I think), but at least thought I’d see if you’d heard anything.
By huh?
May 27, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
TrboDawg,
Me a man and print the blog out and take it to the john like everyone else.
By jambalya
May 27, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
what happneed to David O’Brien?
By BravesFanInRockies
May 27, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
Welcome back, CR. Between the Braves’ hot bats and solid pitching and whatever good luck it is you give them, I’m expecting a successful road trip!
BTW, who should take the fall for the Muts’ collapse? I vote Omar. He put together the roster that isn’t producing, after all …
By AGTfan
May 27, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
Welcome to the frozen north. I’m about 200 miles south in Illinois and it’s warmed all the way up to 47. God I miss Georgia sometimes. Hopefully they’ll close the roof.
Kudos to Rick Minter for his story about Huston Platt. I remember that day in March when I heard about the tragedy. I was supposed to got to Yellow River with friends that day but we all ended up staying home.
Whoever wrote the caption for the photo is trying to put me in my grave a little early. It was 40 years ago, not 50. Hmmm, Can’t do math, must be a UGA grad. :-)
By huh?
May 27, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this
‘Be a man’, not ‘Me a man’
jeez, that was sooo funny in my head, I just couldn’t transfer it to print. arrrggghhh!!
By MGL
May 27, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
Fans over on the Metsblog do not seem to be happy. As a matter of fact, most are in an uproar.
Wonder what has happend to the Mets trolls that have been visiting here. Have not seen them in several days. Metroman, Sinper69, et al where are you??
By McFann
May 27, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
Hiya, Ms. Rogers! Let’s improve that record! ; )
By TennesseePaul
May 27, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this
Russell Brayan Transactions:
Jun 09,1994 - signed by the Indians
Jun 07,2002 - Traded by Indians to Reds for Ben Broussard.
Dec 21,2003 - Granted Free Agency.
Feb 05,2004 - Signed as Free Agent by Braves.
Apr 25,2004 - Traded by Braves to Indians for Scott Sturkie.
Apr 26,2004 - Traded by Braves to Indians
Jul 26,2004 - Sent to Brewers by Indians for future considerations.
Dec 20,2005 - Signed by Brewers
Jan 17,2006 - Released by Brewers
Jan 31,2006 - Signed by Devil Rays
Aug 25,2006 - Traded by Devil Rays to Padres for Evan Meek and a player to be named later
Apr 27,2007 - Placed on bereavement list
May 03,2007 - Activated from bereavement list
Jul 28,2007 - Placed on waivers by Padres
Aug 07,2007 - Signed by Indians
Aug 09,2007 - Traded by Indians to Phillies for cash considerations
Aug 31,2007 - Traded by Phillies to Cardinals for a player to be named later
Feb 20,2008 - Signed by Brewers to minor league contract
—The Baseball Cube
And out of curiosity…
Scott Sturkie… Selected by Detroit Tigers in 28th Round (828th overall) of 2000 amateur entry draft (June-Reg) … Selected by Cleveland Indians in 12nd Round (367th overall) of 2001 amateur entry draft (June-Reg)… traded to the Braves for Russell Brayan.
And from here it looks like he played the season out and went back with Cleveland and then retired…
By MGL
May 27, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
Carroll - Thanks for the update. Will you be running in the Sausage Race while you are there??
By roger
May 27, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this
Hey Rogers, hey dumbo the game will be played indoors with dome covered; please quit whining or we will put DOB back on the job…jeez.
By TrboDawg
May 27, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this
That’s okay “Huh?”, I understood what you were trying to say. I just figured you were a Muts fan trying to convince himself he was a ‘Man” and let it go :)
It’s kinda hard to respond to blog comments tho’ once they’re printed…
By FloridaBrave
May 27, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith,
The cost ALWAYS matters.
By McFann
May 27, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
Metroman, Sinper69, et al where are you?? MGL
Well, don’t call them! Maybe they won’t come back! ; >
Stupid braves.com has NO REPLAY of McCann’s FIRST CAREER TRIPLE!! And I had no luck on YouTube.
Life’s not fair……5.5% of the time.
By Lew
May 27, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this
I can’t believe (well, actually I can, because it’s quite typical here on the blog), that anyone is talking about trading for an outfielder. All of the past two years and throughout the entire offseason, all we had drummed into us ad nauseum was that Matt Diaz DESERVED to play every day in left field. He had won the job and anyone who didn’t see this was And Idiot, or worse.
Here we are not quite 1/3 into the season and Matt is in a slump and now all we hear is how he has to go, be relegated to the bench, hung, drawn and quartered and we now need Brian Giles. I’m not even going to comment any further. Y’all couldn’t make up your minds if you’re lives depended on it-or come up with a rational suggestion-or so it seems.
As for this ridiculous notion of bringing Greg Maddux back for a farewell tour (shades of Kiss and their 15 Final Tours). Greg used to be great. He’s not now. He NEVER was a good pitcher in the post season. He might help us get there (or not), but he wouldn’t help in the least if we make it that far. He didn’t before when he was the best there was and he won’t now that he is no longer anywhere near that good. Add to this the fact that he throws in the same style as every other starter we already have, having lost Smoltz (the ONLY power pitcher of the lot) and one must wonder why we would try to acquire another soft tossing ground ball pitcher when what we need is a power guy to help break things up.
By Ron
May 27, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this
It is friction between the skin and the ball that causes those blisters, and is not related to hot temperatures.
By Allen
May 27, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this
DAP, I agree he’s still a good hitter. I touched on that in my 2:49 post in the previous blog. I was just responding to Shaun’s statement about Petco being the reason for his drop in homer’s. I don’t agree. I think something else, or the lack there of, caused it. He would definitly hit well in front of Chipper, but I doubt Bobby would bat him in the 2 hole even if we did get him.
I really don’t think we need another bat anyway. Another starter should be and probably is what Wren’s focusing on.
By Kentavo
May 27, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this
I don’t like the Braves chances against struggling teams on the road. They play down to the competition. We can whup up Brandon Webb, but get totally schooled by a AAA call-up.
By Josh
May 27, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this
wow what a jackass at 5:28. no one is making you read the blog so if you don’t like what it says go do something else.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 27, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this
FloridaBrave,
Yep.
If cost didn’t matter, we could offer the Reds Chipper and Tex for Harang. Think they’d take ‘em?
By FJR
May 27, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this
Hey Carroll,
What do you think it will take for us to get Aaron Harang? Cox likes him and Cincinatti is desperate to trade him. They have no shot at contending in the NL Central for at least this year and the next 3.
You think Lillibridge and Shchafer gets it done? Maybe Jason Heyward too (they are desperate for a SS, CF and LF)
By ChampDawg
May 27, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this
Did you land corkscrew sytle and under sniper fire…. ala Billary?
By FJR
May 27, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this
LEW,
That is exactly why we need to trade for AARON HARANG.
BravesFanInRockies,
that is small thinking. do you not understand NO MATTER THE COST? Also, you are not looking at it this way. The Reds cannot contend for 4 years. Thus they need to trade Harang because that is logical. They will trade one of the 5 best pitchers in the game because they don’t have a winning record this year and they will have to pay him. The Reds are losing a lot of high paid players after this year, so this means they need to trade their veterans for low priced prospects. This is why not only will the Reds put Harang on the trading block, but the Braves will be able to offer the most attractive package to get him. Got all of that? Thought so.
By FJR
May 27, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
Floridabrave,
cost doesn’t matter when it comes to AARON HARANG.
By ChampDawg
May 27, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
Yea, Carroll………. the game is INDOORS you goof. God, you are such a lame reporter. All your comments about the temps are totally bogus. I hope the AJC isn’t paying you much more than minimum wage.
By THB
May 27, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith and FJR-The Reds are not desperate to trade Harang. They are not going to let him go, period. Of course Bobby likes him, I mean, who doesn’t? Bobby probably likes Jake Peavy too, right? It would take Morton, Heywerd, Hanson, and probably Locke or Evarts. He’s fairly young and very good. Can you show me where you found that the Reds are desperate to trade him?
The A’s will wait for the best offer for Harden, maybe at the all star break we could snag him for someone other than Morton, Heyward, or Schafer. Not willing to give up a ton for him though.
By back of the milk carton
May 27, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this
WHITHER JJS?
By Carroll Rogers
May 27, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this
from the clubhouse….kotsay out of the lineup for the second consecutive day. back’s still tight. they’re still saying day-to-day but i’m sure the more days that go by the bigger of a concern it could become.
Soriano is supposed to throw a bullpen today. will try to get to him afterward to see what’s what. they’re getting ready to do their scouting meeting in a few.
smoltz is still recovering from the flu but plans are for him to pitch thursday night in Rome if he feels good. So this series is out, and I’m wondering if it’s logical to expect him on this road trip, if he throws Thursday night, then will need at least a day, maybe two to rest. But as Bobby says, we shall see.
Mike Gonzalez got a good report from doctors today and is set to go out on a minor league rehab assignment, probably to AA first, then AAA. don’t know specifics yet.
By keylargo
May 27, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
McFann
Try this sight to see if they have Brian’s triple on record.http://www.iris.washington.edu/seismon/
By Pete H.
May 27, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this
Schafer, Lillibridge and Heyward for a couple of years of a No. 4 starter? Why don’t we just toss in Chipper and Mac while we’re at it.
Good lord.
BTW, I am in Chicago and it is bitterly cold here too. They’ll be out sanding the streets and getting the snowplows out of storage soon.
By Jeff321
May 27, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this
I can’t wait for Mike Gonzalez to return! This guy “had” some good stuff. And I think it’ll be even better now.
By eric the elder
May 27, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this
Randy S really good stuff at 4:25.
By McFann
May 27, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this
“Jeez”, roger. Ease up on Ms. Rogers. She does a fine job here! (Besides, with her coverin’, the Braves have a good winning percentage. ; ) )
Keep up the good work, Ms. Rogers!
By AdirondackDave
May 27, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this
Sure hope Kotsay recovers soon. The guy definitely has exceeded my expections and I didn’t think he was chopped liver. Speaking of chopped liver, has the Schafer guy who was so highly touted by the team gotten past his suspension and started to play yet?
By FJR
May 27, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this
THB,
No matter the cost when it comes to AARON HARANG. 60 million payroll, not in first place, holes to fill. AARON HARANG. Braves MO, low key, AARON HARANG, not the same, Reds must fill holes, can’t contend, NO MATTER THE COST WHEN IT COMES TO AARON HARANG!
By Gary Mathews
May 27, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
I might not be a Brave but I’m rich!
By woogidy
May 27, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
so Z is out, who’s in?
By AGTfan
May 27, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
Just when I was thinking there are some great Dawg fans out there, ChumpDAWG come along to remind me why some people think UGA has the most obnoxious fans in sport.
By Luther
May 27, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this
Maddux never was a good pitcher in the postseason? I guess if your standard of good is Smoltz or any of the best postseason guys of all time. 3 World Series, 5 starts, 38.2 innings and a 2.09 ERA. If you pitch that many innings and have an era at 2 I don’t care if you get the win or not, you pitched great in my opinion. Does 96 game 5, losing 1-0 against Pettitte change the view of Smoltz? I say take a look at his numbers and compare them to a lot of so called big game pitchers and they are very close (Stewart, Pettitte, etc). I think part of the issue is that he is not up for consideration as the best of all time in the post season, while that is an arguement many can make during the regular season.
By Matt
May 27, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this
It’s Julian Tavarez, with a z not an s….. He is signed and ready to pitch tonight for Milwaukee if needed. Braves should have no trouble tonight. Dave Bush is terrible, only one good start all year. Hopefully they can take at least two of three. Facing some of Milwaukee’s weaker pitchers, no excuses.
By FJR
May 27, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this
quick informal poll:
who are you rooting for tonight? The Mets or Marlins? Logic tells me to root for the Mets, but my heart just won’t let me.
Also, AARON HARANG. Bobby Cox likes him. perfect fit. Braves MO, low key. 60 mill payroll. lots of holes to fill. Reds must trade
By FJR
May 27, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this
quick informal poll:
who are you rooting for tonight? The Mets or Marlins? Logic tells me to root for the Mets, but my heart just won’t let me.
Also, AARON HARANG. Bobby Cox likes him. perfect fit. Braves MO, low key. 60 mill payroll. lots of holes to fill. Reds must trade AARON HARANG
By Golf Club in Alpharetta
May 27, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this
Carroll Rogers
Smoltz isnt sick
Smoltz is on the back nine at a private golf club in Alpharetta. He has been out here playing 3 of the past 7 days. Good swing, no flu though.
By Josh
May 27, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this
Aaron Harang isn’t a #4 starter…he’s a staff ace, or would be the co-ace on this team with Hudson. He’s also signed to very reasonable contract through 2010.
By Efrim
May 27, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this
Lew
Re: your 5:35 post, I understand what you are saying about Maddux, but to acquire a power pitcher who misses bats, the Braves would have to give up a lot more than I am willing to agree with(maybe they will though, we have a deep farm system). Now, I’m not sure if you think we need a starter, you didn’t specify that in your post, but if you do, then who? My feeling is that it is probably a bit too early to tell who is available and who isn’t. By June 15th we will probably have that answer.
By THB
May 27, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this
FJR-You’re an idiot if you think they’re going to trade Aaron Harang. Have you looked at their team? They’re going to trade Griffey, Dunn, Arroyo and Keppinger before they trade their ace. They have an outstanding foundation with their rotation and they have a closer. They need their young guns (Cueto, Bailey) to develop and if Arroyo has a decent year they’ll be alright. They have Votto, Bruce, Hamilton, and Encarnacion for position players. They really only need a catcher (Bako won’t cut it), some relievers, and another outfielder. If they traded Griffey and Dunn, they could probably get a good enough return where they’d get a couple major league ready players and get rid of a bunch of money.
How are they not going to contend in the next 4 years? They have Harang singed through 2010 plus a club option for 2011. They have Edinson Volquez, and well he’s been the best pitcher in baseball through this point. He’s a phenom. They have Cueto who has shown signs of brilliance but some inconsistency, he’s still a rookie. He’s going to be good, too. They have Arroyo who has been a disappointment, but can still be a solid middle rotation starter. Homer Bailey was considered one of the best pitching prospects in all of baseball, although he’s having a down year. Give him time, he’s going to be special too. They haev all the pieces, they just need to start performing.
By the way, you’re saying no matter the cost? So you’re probably happy with the Tex trade, doesn’t matter what we gave up. I’m not saying it was bad, but you don’t think we overpaid there?
It won’t matter though because Wren won’t get the chance to overpay for him. Harang ain’t going anywhere.
By Shaun
May 27, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
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.
…
I was just responding to Shaun’s statement about Petco being the reason for his drop in homer’s. I don’t agree. I think something else, or the lack there of, caused it.
Allen, I agree that there has been some drop off in his power. I was simply stating that Giles is still a great hitter but it’s disguised because of Petco.
Actually, look at when Giles’ power peaked—between the ages of 28-31—right when we would expect it to peak. Sure it has dropped (as we would have expected) but it hasn’t dropped that much when we account for Petco. He’s still an offensive force.
As far as other players, overall Petco does affect other players.
Let’s look at last year since we have a much larger sample that this year.
2007 Padres at Petco: .235/.310/.378
2007 Padres away: .265/.333/.440
2007 Padres’ opponents at Petco: .235/.294/.336
2007 Padres Opponents at the opponents’ home parks: .264/.328/.413
If we look at the dimensions of Petco, it’s clear why Giles’ power would drop there (and why it may not affect right-handed hitters quite as bad.
LF line: 334’
Left-center: 367’
Center: 396’
Right-center “corner”: 411’
Right-center: 387’
RF line: 322’
Unless a left-handed hitter really pulls the ball, he’ll have to hit it a ton to get it out in right.
Also, keep in mind that Giles doesn’t have to put up great numbers at Petco. He just has to put up better numbers than other players, particularly other right fielders, to be valuable to the Pads.
You said Turner Field isn’t much better. You’re probably right. But he wouldn’t have to put up great numbers. Just better numbers than most other players, particularly other left fielders.
(Again, I’m not campaigning for a Giles trade. I just think he’s still a productive player and I wouldn’t be opposed to it for the right deal.)
Okay, I’ll stop rambling.
By ncscoots
May 27, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this
I swear, if I see AARON HARANG in capital letters one more time, I’m gonna hunt down the offender and put them deep in the hurt locker.
You made your point, weak as it is. Let it go for a while, ferchrissake.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 27, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this
FJR,
Either you’re great at sarcasm or you need to reconsider your man-crush on Harang.
For one thing, Cincy needs to put people in the seats, whether or not they contend, so if you have an young ace like Harang locked up, you keep him. He’ll keep your team in the game and draw fans.
Plus, they have a few other pieces to build around — the two kid pitchers, Phillips, Votto, now Jay Bruce. They have other tradeable components, as THB said. Harang could be an anchor of a competitive team. You’d never deal him from desperation. You’d use him to build on while you unload older and more expensive players first.
By McFann
May 27, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
keylargo—
What kind of website is it? (Can’t be too careful.) Also, what would I search under (“McCann triple”, I guess)?
Thank you!
FJR—
I look at it this way: We don’t want the Mets to win, we just want the Marlins to lose. : P
GET WELL SOON, Kotsay! Sure been likin’ that bat of yours—best in our OF, IMHO.
So, is it gonna be Diaz, or is Norton gonna be in again?
By ncscoots
May 27, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this
Efrim, we (you and I) have agreed previously that the Braves will need pitching in the offseason, no? Won’t that cost the Braves prospects, also? I think we know the FA pitching is going to be weak, after the extensions signed this past offseason and the options for 2009 that are likely to be picked up.
The team is going to have to part with players that you and I both would rather remain in the organization, I think. So, I’d just as soon have the pain July 31 as January 1, I guess, if it means solidifying the rotation this year, as well as the future.
By Coach Smith
May 27, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this
FJR
You are making such an @ZZ out of yourself with this whole thing that now people can’t even tell whether you are being a JERK or SERIOUS…
THB
FJR is still attacking me for somehting I said 5 hours ago..he is attempting to be a smart @zz with his comments….
That being said THB…what I said was that with GRIFFEY, DUNN, HATTEBERG, EDWIN ENCARNOCION, VALENTINE, FREEL, WHEATHERS, KEPPINGER….all being Free Agents on a team that averages a 60 million dollar payroll…
I was saying I’m not sure they can afford to pay HARANG nearly 13 mil a year after this year with all those holes to fill
That would be 20% or more of a low budget team’s payroll to one player when you have 6 STARTING POSITIONS TO FILL
By Coach Smith
May 27, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this
THB
I hope that the HAMILTON you have included in your post for the REDS outfeild is NOT JOSH HAMILTION….
NEWSFLASH….he is now tearing it up in TEXAS and is no longer a RED..
Maybe you shouldn’t be calling people idiots
By ncscoots
May 27, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this
Ah, Shaun, God love ya, man, LOL. A sniff of “park-adjusted” or a whiff of “Petco”, and off we gooooooooo!
Don’t ever change, bro. Seriously. I think of all the great bloggers we seldom see here anymore, and it breaks my heart, but losing you would just about end it for me, I think. And I say that with all sincerity.
By keylargo
May 27, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
McFann
I’m sorry. I am apolgizing in advance for that site. I thought they might have had his “slide” on it. Don’t be mad at me, I’ll be nicer.
By THB
May 27, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith-My mistake, you’re right. I was thinking of Brandon Phillips…don’t know why I said Hamilton. Guess that makes me an idiot? My bad
By brian
May 27, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
I would love for the Braves to reaquire Maddux if it does not cost them too heavily in the prospects. If he could give us 6 strong innings a night it would give JoJo time to develop
Look at our bullpen - if everyone gets healthy the Braves could throw Ohman in the 7th, Acosta in the 8th and Soriano in the 9th one night. Then the next night the Braves could throw Boyer in the 7th, Gonzalez in the 8th, and Smoltz in the 9th. Bennett would be the long relief, do it all person in the bullpen.
That is a strong bullpen
By Lew
May 27, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
Efrim-Actually, I would not advocate picking up on any pitcher unless it was someone relatively young who was under contract for several years. No more 40 year old momentary fixes.
I’m not really into giving up any of our top prospects unless we were to get someone of such great impact that they would lead us to the series this year and at least next as well. Does such a paragon exist? Who knows?
What I do know is that we have done pretty damn well with a patched up rotation and pen. There are still a fair number of interchangeable pieces left in the arsenal and I’d like to see what we can do with what we have, keeping the General Managerial ear to the ground.
To this point, while hardly perfect, it ain’t been to bad at all-everything considered. We’re right in the middle of the race as it stands. No other team in our division (or the league, for that matter) is tearing anything up. I’m fine with waiting and seeing what Frank Wren can come up with. He’s done well to this point.
By McFann
May 27, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this
Keylargo—
Don’t know what you’re apologizing for—I never went on the site—But thanks anyway!
Go Braves! Repeat!! Repeat!! That was such a great game!
By Lew
May 27, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this
FJR-Exactly why MUST Cincinnati trade Harang if he’s under reasonable contract for two more seasons after this?
By BravesFanInRockies
May 27, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this
Lew,
I’m 90% with you but would make an exception for Maddux (if the price is not too high).
I’d rather not rely more on 40+ guys, given the record of doing that so far this year.
Maddux, of course, seems to be the exception. He always goes to the post.
By Coach Smith
May 27, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this
THB
LOL…you are making my point about the trouble the REDS could be in next year…BRANDON PHILLIPS is a 2nd BASEMAN…not an OUTFIELDER
with DUNN. Griffey, Freel, and Corey Patterson all FREE AGENTS…
That leaves ONLY HARISTON listed as an outfielder on their roster…
By Lew
May 27, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this
FJR-Don’t get me wrong. If Harang were, indeed available and for a reasonable price tag, he would be a great addition to the Braves and would help us immensely for three seasons.
However, I have serious doubts just how much the Reds are heated up about letting him go. They considered themselves to be contenders this year-greatly improved. If they think they are close to contending in the next couple seasons, I don’t see them parting with Harang. He is the centerpiece of their staff AND, as you say, under contract at reasonable rates for a while. They won’t trade him without asking for a Tex-like deal.
By FJR
May 27, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this
okay, okay,
I’ve had my fun with the whole AARON HARANG thing. Sarcasm for those who weren’t clear. Good for a little belly laugh eh? I won’t even refer to his name anymore, I’ll just refer to him as “He Whose Name Must Be In All Caps” or HWNMBIAC for short.
By keylargo
May 27, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this
McFann
The sight was a Seismic Monitor to track earthquakes. LOL,That slide into third was classic. I couldn’t resist. You should be proud of your McMann though. He and Chipper are carrying the Braves now. Just keep him working on those throws.
By ncscoots
May 27, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this
Lew, don’t encourage that nut-job by directing comments to him. That just prolongs the misery.
By jukeandjive
May 27, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
I live down here in Mobile, AL, and there is no where to listen to the braves on radio. Any tips for listening online free?
By FJR
May 27, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
coach smith, they just called up Jay Bruce, the #1 prospect in baseball (which includes Evan Longoria).
This has nothing to do with the HWNMBIAC thing, just pointing that out.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 27, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith,
Jay Bruce was called up today to play CF. I think Dunn and Jr. will be traded, but they could be swapped for ML ready OF prospects, among others.
Again, there are many other Reds who are more likely to be traded than Harang, who’s A BARGAIN (sorry for the caps).
By H-Ram
May 27, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this
Carroll
Any news on Soriano’s Bullpen??
By Allen
May 27, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this
Shaun, Good stuff. I understand what you’re trying to say and agree that he is a good hitter and player. I’m just not so sure he wasn’t on something when he was producing those big home run numbers. If he was, I really wouldn’t want him on our team. Just an opinion.
I’ll move on now. It’s not like we’re gonna get him anyway.
By Lew
May 27, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this
BravesFanInRockies-But would we re-sign Maddux for next year, too? At $10 mil plus a year? I doubt it.
Why give up any young player for a partial season rent a player that is unlikely to provide much help if you reach the postseason? Just makes little sense to me.
It may be appealing on a nostalgic level, but hardly practical from any other perspective. Way too much in talent and payroll for the returns.
By Shaun
May 27, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
ncscoots, thanks. I try to bring it with conviction and evidence, whether you agree with me or not.
By Greg in TN
May 27, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
Evening folks…
Kudos to Carroll Rogers, who fearlessly flew the friendly, if not overly bumpy, skies to check in with the Braves/MIB blog from the land of the beermakers.
Another night off for Mark Kotsay, which isn’t a bad idea with the temperature in the mid 40’s and a back that is still a little tight. No need in going out there tonight and taking a chance making things worse.
I agree that we’ll know in the next 2-4 weeks who will be buyers and who will be sellers in the grand bazaar that is the MLB trading deadline. Getting an arm to compliment Hudson and JJJ would certainly be a no brainer, however there wasn’t anything relevant and helpful available at the deadline last year, and there may not be anyone available at a reasonable price this year. Time will tell.
Almost game time in the house Hank and Rollie Fingers built. Put me down for the Italian Sausage as the winner in the great Miller Park sausage race for this evening.
By THB
May 27, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith-I did not prove any of your points. I said Hamilton (Meant Phillips though) was a position player. Learn to read man. They have Jay Bruce just called up. You know, rated the No.1 Prospect in all of baseball by many? So they have a lineup of this:
1B: Votto 2B: Phillips 3B: Encarnacion SS: Keppinger (Who by the way is NOT a free agent) C: Bako (needs an upgrade) LF: Freel/Dunn (Dunn’s a FA after this year) CF: Jay Bruce (Patterson sucks) RF: Griffey (Also a FA)
The point is, you don’t trade players signed reasonably with multiple year left on your contract when you have a foundation like they have. If he were on the market, and we could get him without giving up 5 top prospects (See Teixeira), then I’d probably do it. But they’re not trading him. Not yet.
By Lew
May 27, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
Scoots-But everyone wanted a kinder gentler Lew, Right? I didn’t know if he was like Chase, who thinks if I respond to his posts, I’m attacking him.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 27, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
Lew,
If Maddux insists on an extension, then no, I wouldn’t do it.
I’d sure consider him for a B or C level prospect if the Pads would do it, and they might if the Braves picked up Mad Dog’s salary for the rest of ‘08.
By McFann
May 27, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this
Keylargo—
Haha!! Joe said it would go as a 6.5 on the R-scale! It was SO classic! At the end of the season, they oughta have that in the Top Ten 2008 Moments! And I “hate” the Braves website for having no replays! (No photos, either! It’s so LAME!!)
But yeah, I’m very proud of him, that’s for sure. Still cringe when a speedster gets on base, but he and Chipper are really carrying this team. (That’s for very very DANG sure!) And like Ron Gant just said, “Luck has nothing to do with it—Brian McCann is just a good hitter.”
: )
By BravesFanInRockies
May 27, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this
BTW McFann and others,
SportsSouth put together a nice comparison of Heap’s batting stance in ‘08 vs. ‘07. Looks a little like the work TP did with Andruw when he had the breakout year in ‘05 (not that Andruw paid attention in the long run).
I’m thinking if Tex isn’t with the Braves next year, McCann may be the cleanup hitter after all.
By jukeandjive
May 27, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this
Any place to listen to the BRAVOs online?
By Greg in TN
May 27, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this
The lid is on denizens. Let’s play ball…
By bravesfan
May 27, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
Carroll, what is the update on Soriano?
By ncgary
May 27, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
salty is up to 245 2 for 2 tonite with a double
By jukeandjive
May 27, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this
Way to go K-Jo! 1-0 Bravos!!!
By Greg in TN
May 27, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this
No fooling KJ on either the foul ball or that blast to right-center before the Brewers faithful could even settle into their seats.
KJ has hit safely now in 13 consecutive and it’s a prelude to a double by everyone’s favorite Offensive Assassin.
By Efrim
May 27, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this
Scoots
Re: your 6:58 post. I agree. It sucks. It would sure be nice to fleece another GM though. I’d really rather not trade Heyward though. Anyone but him.
Lew
Fair enough man. I agree with you. We need a pitcher on the sunny side of 30. I trust that if there was an impact pitcher that we can control and get us to the promise land, Frank Wren would get that GM on the horn to talk shop. We’lst,l see, but as I just said to NcScoots on this post, Heyward really shouldn’t be traded….and I am sure he won’t be.
By Dan
May 27, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this
Couple of things. 1. For those of you that want Maddux back… Who are your top 3 starters lets say come playoffs? JJJ arm will fall off at this pace. So that would most likely leave you Hudson,Glavine,and Maddux.??? Please that didn’t work while in their prime years. What makes you think it’ll work now? I just don’t get that.
If the Braves do trade ANYONE, I’d rather throw in a couple more players and get A younger and power arm. Then a rent a player and lose the guy or two you trade for Maddux. 2. Trade whatever it may be for a PROVEN power arm, that will help this year and years to come . Rather then HOPE that these minor league PROSPECTS pan out.
As for the game tonight… Why is DIAZ batting in front of Blanco????? another one i just don’t get. Nice HR by KJ to get this started.
By McFann
May 27, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
BravesFanInRockies—
Yeah! He’s changed his stance a little, and that’s helped a lot. Clean-up hitter? Sounds good!
By fastasballs
May 27, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
Bush is the right handed versions of Chuck James. The Braves should pound on him. That being said, Frenchy missed not one, but TWO hangers or it’s 4-0.
By Epinephrine
May 27, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
Huddy is going to be nasty tonight, book it. His balls are low, he is consistent, and they appear to have a lot of bite. Should be a good night for the Bravos.
Bad news about Kotsay. This is where Schafer’s HGH thing hurts us. I think we can get away with it for the rest of the month, maybe into July, but we’ll need a solution eventually, and I don’t think his name is Blanco with Diaz in left full time. We’ll see.
By Carroll Rogers
May 27, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
Am I missing something or does this building have a roof on it that opens and closes? Granted, i found out from Milwaukee types that the Breweres haven’t played one game with it open yet this season. that it always warms up when they go on the road, and they open it up, let the grass get some sunshine. but whenever the brewers get home, turns cold again.
not that we could get much out of soriano, who is apparently beyond tired of talking about his elbow but he said the bullpen was good, roger mcdowell said it was perfect and i’d say if soriano’s arm feels good tomorrow, the day after, the braves activate him on thursday.
thanks, josh
MGL, hey, if it’s good enough for eddie perez, why not?!
love it, Chop Chop. thought about L and S today, driving around this town.
think you guys handled the harang topic well enough. …and i’ll be digging into the draft next week. but i’m on the road all week, so probably won’t get much into that until then.
and ron, i thought blisters also come from moist skin rubbing. like when your feet sweat you get blisters easier. but i’ll concede that’s wrong. whatever, dudes.
By Greg in TN
May 27, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
Blanco with his first career blast makes it 2-0. Atta boy Gregor.
By Carroll Rogers
May 27, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
blanco’s first major league home run just left the yard. and this is the kid who went a year without one in the minors (2006). kudos to him
By Mark in PA
May 27, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this
Keylargo at 6:06— LMAO! I didn’t need to hit the site. Look for the spike, McFann.
And Gregor hits another solo dinger. If you missed the pregame on the radio, that’s the deal with Dave Bush—fast ball pitcher, lots of go-fer balls.
By Mark in PA
May 27, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this
Keylargo at 6:06— LMAO! I didn’t need to hit the site. Look for the spike, McFann.
And Gregor hits another solo dinger. If you missed the pregame on the radio, that’s the deal with Dave Bush—fast ball pitcher, lots of go-fer balls.
By fastasballs
May 27, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
Wow these Brewers announcers are REALLY on top of their game preparation. They said Blanco was the reason Andruw wasn’t offered a contract this off season.
I nearly spewed my cheap beer onto my even cheaper computer after hearing that tidbit.
I guess some guy named Kotsay doesn’t appear in their copy of the Braves’ media guide.
By Efrim
May 27, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
Escobar looks like he might of hurt himself on that diving stop…..
By Epinephrine
May 27, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this
Ron, you are wrong. A blister is indeed created by friction between the external surface and the skin. However, the external surface is unlikely to push the skin and create a blister pocket without moisture-ie, sweat. With a non-gloved hand in cold temperatures, a blister is thus extremely unlikely. With a foot, in contrast, the heat generated by the movement, sock, and shoe, would be enough to create sweat and allow the skin to slip with friction. But basically, Carrol is right.
By McFann
May 27, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
CONGRATS, Greg White!! Hope they get that ball for ya!
Hey, and I’m keepin’ score over here. Got that moment in my book! (Cann they improve to 3-4 when I keep score? Here’s hopin’…)
Mark in PA—
Gotcha. ; )
By geauxbraves2000
May 27, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this
15 years ago today, the great Dale Murphy retired as a member of the Colorado Rockies. He was the one of the best players in his time, he should be in the hall.
Geaux Braves!!
By fastasballs
May 27, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this
Has is been 15 years since Murphy retired? Geez………..seems not very long ago at all.
By ernesto
May 27, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
From the Brewer’s Play by Play
“Already we’ve seen more batters swing at that first pitch breaking ball than we normally see in an entire series.”
“Yeah, batters usually just won’t offer at that.”
By BT
May 27, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
Thank goodness Blanco can hit because our other two outfielders tonight can’t hit a lick! Now Diaz drops one over the infield. After Kotsay comes back do you think Jeff F needs to ride the wood again?
By ncscoots
May 27, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
McFann, at the risk of creating a raft of blogger jokes, McCann seems to be shifting more weight to his back foot when he loads at the plate. It would appear that is giving him more drive through the ball, now that he has gotten his timing down for the swing change. Don’t know that makes him a candidate for hitting cleanup, though.
By Cody
May 27, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
Ok everybody what do you think about this trade. Devine for Kotsay was great. Renteria for Jair was GREAT. The trade however that went un-noticed by everyone the Wren pulled off was the Infante/Ohman deal that sent Asciano. This trade was without a doubt the best one of the winter. Not only did the Braves get a good lefty for the bullpen 9in Ohman) but they also got a super utility man that could start for any major team in Infante. Infante along has won the Braves two or three games since coming off the DL. Wren has made this team 10 times better this season because he is not afraid of making a deal. Shurholtz was great but as his reputation built I believe he was a little shy about trading because he was afriad he would goof. Just look at the Albie Lopez and J.D. Drew trades. I believe the Braves will be winners at the deadline and thats because our new GM has a loaded gun. Lets face it Wren knows what he is doing so far so good. My pitching wish list: Harang, Maddux, Young, Millwood, Oswalt, Arryo, Haren- if proven he can stay healthy up to the deadline, or Cain. Anyway you look at it this Braves team really has something special going lest just hope they can get this road thing going.
By Dylan
May 27, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
If Kotsay goes on DL, they should bring up Josh Anderson but Bobby said it would be a extra pitcher. Heard Smoltz had the flu? Is that right. What else is going to happen?
By uga-brave
May 27, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
huddy now has the same amount of extra base hits on the road as diaz, one.
By FJR
May 27, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
Why would we bring up Josh Anderson? Blanco is fine at CF. If diaz can’t play left every day while Kotsay is out, then he should be cut. If he can’t outhit Josh Anderson, Diaz should be cut. Its as simple as that. If in fact Kotsay goes on teh DL (I don’t think he will) I’d bring up a reliever or the best bat available.
Josh Anderson would have no role on this team as long as Blanco is here.
By Mark in PA
May 27, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
Carroll, did you spy any white uni’s in the locker room? Glad to have you on board tonight. You’re always a calming influence on what can be a storm-tossed blog.
And sorry, all, for the previous double post.
By FJR
May 27, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
man, a 2 run lead really scares me against this team.
By McFann
May 27, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this
0-2……No…no, no! Please NO!!
By Efrim
May 27, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
Trouble in the 6th. A real shame if we lose this one.
By JimD
May 27, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
Do you spell it neutered or nuetered? Either way … that hurt.
By Greg in TN
May 27, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
And the Italian Sausage takes the race tonight… Bravo.
Double ouch there… McCann gets nicked by a foul ball, next pitch Diaz runs his knee into the concrete and metal grate along the wall in foul territory.
Then a great play by KJ starting the 4-6-3 on the grounder from Fielder.
By MEB
May 27, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
Oh the joys of being a catcher! The left field wall can hurt as well. Add to that a very timely double play. Baseball is such a wonderful sport.
GO BRAVES!!!
By radoncbravesfan
May 27, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this
Nice double play and fly out induced by Hudson after BMac got nads mashed and Diaz knee smashed.
By geauxbraves2000
May 27, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this
Way to pitch out that Huddy.
Okay offense, time to score some runs!
Geaux Braves!!
By JimD
May 27, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
In Asian nomenclature, McCann might now be known as Won Hyung Lo.
By BT
May 27, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
Can Jeff ever take the first pitch? Diaz out.
By Cody
May 27, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Why the hell is Diaz trying a damn bunt. This guy needs some minors time, he looks lost.
By Jeff321
May 27, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Looks to me like Diaz banged his knee/leg pretty good out there.. Its time to call up the reinforcements!
By uga-brave
May 27, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
hudson just battles his butt off to get out of a long sixth inning, and francoeur and diaz put the first pitch in play. not very smart.
By Efrim
May 27, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
Wow. Diaz and Kotsay down. Hope this one doesn’t go extras.
By Dan
May 27, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
LMFAO…. M. Diaz FINALLY gets a hit. Then gets hurt on a sliding attempt on a foul ball. Next at bat.. tries to bunt his way on with a bum knee. LOL UNREAL why bunt after a hit your previous at bat. another i just don’t get.
By JimD
May 27, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this
OK, one more and I will quit … (I was a catcher back in the day so I can’t help it.)
I guess you could say that Brian now is one McNugget short of a Happy Meal.
By Philliesuk
May 27, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this
Interesting to listen to the Brewers announcers tonight. They can’t believe how many times the Braves hitters swing at the first pitch, and they won’t shut up about it.
Don’t understand why Diaz bunted in that situation, considering that his knee was banged up. Do love the hustle he showed in the outfield though.
First Kotsay, now Diaz?
By Cody
May 27, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
2-0 lead off a pitcher that has a ERA over 6. WOW this road curse is still going on for the Braves. If they were facing this guy at home the game would be 7-0. Even if this team wins tonight they have got to figure out how to score on the FRIGGEN road. DIAZ needs to go he has been figured out by ML pitching and will never see a first pitch strike again. He is simply a first pitch hitter. I say trade for Dunn and let him platoon with Blanco. hell If DUNN fallowed chipper and Tex his strikout total will drop especially if you batted hime in front of McCANN.
By eric the elder
May 27, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
I know I’m sounding like a broken record, but Francoeur’s hips are flying open so fast that his body is facing 3rd base before his bat even enters the strike zone.
Brandon Webb is a tough pitcher, but Francoeur is the only Braves batter that was made to look like a fool.
This isn’t a nuanced little tweak. It is obvious for all to see. Bobby and TP need to insist that he make this correction. If he pulls an Andruw, then sit him down a while.
By geauxbraves2000
May 27, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
I think this team at time leaves it’s smarts in ATL. It seems they have such good approaches at Turner Field, but when they get on the road it all goes to, well, you know where.
Geaux Braves!!
By woogidy
May 27, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
Maybe here is an explanation:
Averages
Starting game temp at home - 72.9° F
Starting game temp on road - 61.4° F
obviously not including tonight, which is indoors.
By Epinephrine
May 27, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
Big bottom 7 top 8. Need to get Huddy through this. Then we need to get some insurance runs, with Chipper due up 4th. Come on Bravos.
By Jeff321
May 27, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this
Has Cox got anyone up in the bullpen yet? Or is he going to wait until we’re LOSING again as usual?
By uga-brave
May 27, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
cody,
i dont think the reds are going to give us adam dunn. uh and he and blanco are both LH hitters.
By Dylan
May 27, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
FJR—START CUTTING!! Diaz is a joke right now and I think he just got hurt. Blanco is not just a CF and Josh has in past been better that Blanco until spring training and it was close. Josh proved last year in his Sept call up he could play hitting over 300. Thats why Wren traded for him. If what you say is true then why not trade him?
By BT
May 27, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
No matter what happens, this was a gutsy showing by Tim Hudson. The bullpen has to hold!
By Epinephrine
May 27, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this
Not sure I like the call of Huddy coming back out. Would have been nice to start the inning off with a pinch hitter, but Im sure Huddy was saying, let me stay in.
By Kev
May 27, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
Ahem..paging Mr Josh Anderson
By Epinephrine
May 27, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
Dylan
Anderson didn’t prove he could hit over .300 by doing it for a month. He has consistently had a low OBP, and he has hit over .300 (.308) only once in the minors. He appears to be around a .280 minors hitter, with a relatively low OBP. So don’t act like the dude is going to come in and hit .300. He isn’t.
By geauxbraves2000
May 27, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
If the score does stay the same, at least they can say they won a one run ballgame on the road. That’s go to be a positive.
Geaux Braves!!
By Epinephrine
May 27, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this
And also, Blanco is just not a center fielder? Care to explain that one?
By Epinephrine
May 27, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this
And also, Blanco is just not a center fielder? Care to explain that one?
By Cody
May 27, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
Looks like another one run loss on the road is brewing. This team is imbarrising away from teh big ATL.
By Zbrave
May 27, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
Wow! Cox left Hudson in for the 8th. Scarrrry….
By Cody
May 27, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
Looks like another one run loss on the road is brewing. This team is imbarrising away from teh big ATL. Oh why is hudson batting WTF
By FloridaBrave
May 27, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
This team really is schizo. Fantastic at home, terrible on the road. We beat the heck out of guys like Santana and Webb and then can’t muster much of anything against Dave friggin’ Bush. The Braves road record has got to them- no matter what they say- and they’re trying to force things to happen at the plate. It’s frustrating but the only way we start playing like we should on the road is when we get some victories under our belt.
By Efrim
May 27, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this
Gutsy move from BC. I like it. We really need to score some more runs though…..
Just as I am writing this, Fielder singles up the middle to beat the shift.
Be careful with Hart.
By Ashley
May 27, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
Gah we were lucky Fielder was the front runner on that one….how much do you think that guy weighs?
By Cody
May 27, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
WOW what a showing by the Braves in the 8th. This is just sickning.
By TURTSNAP
May 27, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
Another night of frustrating hitting on the road for the Bravos. Hopefully the two solo shots will hold up (just as I am writing this though, Hart just hit a double down the line).
No hitting, swinging at the first pitch, yada yada yada. How can the Braves take an approach, like they did against Webb, and other pitchers, where it is obvious they are going to work the count, and then totally abandon it like they have tonight?
By Efrim
May 27, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
Walking Branyan to get to Hardy???
Not sure about that.
By Bravesfan79
May 27, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
Ugghhh….dont we have a strikeout pitcher we can bring in for Hudson? Bobby should of brought him out after 2 men got on base.
Please dont tell me were gonna leave a hurt, tired Hudson stay in the game!
By Bama
May 27, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
2 outs bases loaded…Damn Hudson has pitched his heart out. Yes, Dylan calling Josh Anderson..What a stupid lucky break. We can’t blow this game…come on.
By Efrim
May 27, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
Take out Hudson. I know Kendal is up there now, but good lord, he doesn’t have it anymore……121 pitches.
By sri
May 27, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
why? why? bobby why?
By SNIVELER-69
May 27, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
WHY IS HUDSON still pitching? He’s thrown 120 pitches.
By Dan
May 27, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
Didn’t like that IBB. i’d rather pitch to R.Branyon hoping he would chase something out of the strike zone. he was 1-3 while Hardy 2-3. IDK
By Zbrave
May 27, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
Can anybody tell me why in the world Cox left a tired pitcher in for the 8th in a one run game? It’s now tied.
By LA Brave
May 27, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
3 rinky-dink ground balls get through. Very, very unlucky. Leaving Hudson in was the right decision. He wasn’t throwing any bad pitches. The breaks just didn’t go his way.
By Epinephrine
May 27, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
FloridaBrave
I don’t really think this has been a bad game. Santana didn’t pitch all that great, and Webb definitely didn’t pitch well. It was very clear that it was Webb who had an off day, not that the Braves beat the heck out of him. He was missing spots, elevating pitches, etc.
On the other hand, Bush has actually pitched a solid game today. True the bats don’t look great today, but sometimes you have to tip your hat to the opponent. Remember, all these guys are big leaguers. They all have talent.
Still, especially defensively, the Braves have battled. It is a game they should win, but if they do win, it is a game I think they can feel good about.
By Kev
May 27, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
THANK YOU BOBBY..for this road loss AGAIN!!!!!!! Awesome managing just AWESOME!!
By Jeff321
May 27, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
Wow, I don’t know how this one is going to shake out.. But, I was hoping one of the loyal Cox defenders could tell me why Hudson is still in there with over 120 pitches? And what about that intentional walk? How did that work out?
By Mark in PA
May 27, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
I’m listening, and did not see it, but it sounds like the score in the 8th was a bad break, and not Hudson staying too long at the dance (nor Cox leaving him in). Comments?
Come on, bats, pick Tim up!
And as I type that, Chipper singles. Yeah!
By SNIVELER-69
May 27, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
Outcoached.
By Efrim
May 27, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
DP from Tex. Damn dude.
By THB
May 27, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
Should’ve pitched to Branyan, there were two outs. Hudson probably shouldn’t have been in there after he gave up the two singles, although there were two outs. Braves need to freaking hit, and I’m sick of double plays. (See Tex)
By Epinephrine
May 27, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
This would be a really painful loss
By FloridaBrave
May 27, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
Epi,
Bush got away with a lot of mistakes, especially early. The Braves let him off the hook early, kept ‘em in the game, and when you do that on the road that means trouble. They totally abandoned their patient approach because they’re starting to press. This team isn’t the same on the road. It was Tim Hudson vs. Dave Bush today. Good teams win these type of match-ups. We’ll see what we got today…
By fastasballs
May 27, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
Blaming Cox for this game is ignorant. If the offense would have taken the same approach they took against Santana, Johnson & Webb, then the game would be well in control right now.
By McFann
May 27, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
:,(
By kirknga
May 27, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
Geez we are not putting people away on 0-2 1-2 counts.
By TexasBrave
May 27, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
How in the he11 do you leave Tim in there after he has thrown over 100 pitches and has been in trouble the last two inning culminating in a run scoring? It would have been nice to have a lead off bat and a fresh arm the next inning.
I mean come on our bullpen has been doing great lets let them finish for a much needed road win. Sheeeese Bobby.
By Mark in PA
May 27, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
Per radio: DIAZ- PCL strain, and laceration requiring stiches—he’s on his way back to the ATL tomorrow.
By A-ville Rangers
May 27, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Another one run road loss,this has become a pathology.
By uga-brave
May 27, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
hudson gave up two runs in eight innings.
he pitched out of jams in the sixth, seventh, and eighth.
how any of you can actually blame bobby for this is mind numbing.
braves just got shut out in seven consecutive innings by bush, tavarez, and torres.
quit blaming cox for all of that. now bennett falls asleep on the mound, must be bobby’s fault.
By Bravesfan79
May 27, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
This loss is on Bobby mismanaging his bullpen….. AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hudson should of been pulled!
By FloridaBrave
May 27, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
I love how people get on Cox for overworking his pen and then when he tries to stretch a starter out, he’s an idiot. Hudson’s our best pitcher and I roll the dice with him rather than any other guy in our pen.
By Greg
May 27, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
Why in the hell did Bobby leave Hudson in for the 8th? Hudson was done in the 7th. This is why we lose close games because Cox does not believe that every run counts. Newsflash, Bobby, every RUN Counts! Moron.
By THB
May 27, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
Time to drink til I pass out…this loss was pathetic.
By Mark T.
May 27, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
Epinephrine This is a really painful loss. This game was eerily similar to the loss last september, to these same Brewers, when Bobby left Huddy in too long and it came back to bite us. Deja vu…
By Section 412
May 27, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this
Nice awareness of the situation by Bennett (???). For those that insist speed and baserunning don’t really matter, I present the bottom of the 9th as Exhibit A.
By Greg in TN
May 27, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this
The road woes continue and it’s almost getting Serling-esque at this point. Bennett has to pay better attention to Bill Hall on second base, with him on third and only one out, it puts the defense in a difficult position. Nice throw by Blanco to make it close.
By Who Stole Our Team
May 27, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this
It shouldn’t be a mystery why this team loses on the road. Obviously there is no one in the dugout telling them to take a pitch or two. They must think that it’s getaway day and they have a flight to catch! What’s up with all the first pitch swinging? At least give Hudson a minute to catch his breath!
During the recent homestand, they made the opposing pitchers work. The hitters were patient. They were rewarded for their patience.
Seriously, when guys are going up there jumping out of their shoes on the first pitch someone in the dugout needs to settle them down!
Part of being a manager or member of the coaching staff has to be to recognize patterns as the game progresses. If the guys playing the game don’t do the normal, common things that big leaguers have done for years (giving the pitcher a blow after a rough inning by taking some pitches), then shouldn’t someone in a position of authority address that? (are you listening Bobby)
By princetonbrave
May 27, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this
A 1-run loss on the road.
What an effing shocker.
By Dan
May 27, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this
And thats how you win a game. Thats how you manage late innings. Small ball. Get on..move em up..steal and a simple sac fly. WOW what a heartbreaker. GET RID OF M.DIAZ already. Waste of a bat… and PLEASE move FRENCHY down to the 8 hole or bench him for a FEW games.
By Overlord
May 27, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this
2nd time this year I see KJ make a great play at 2B, this time in fould territory….. OVERLORD APPLAUDS!!!
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 fastasballs
May 27, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
Wow how many times have we seen these types of losses on the road while Hudson is pitching.
Very bad loss to take, but the offense did nothing besides hit two solo shots. If Santana was pitching I could live with that, but Dave Bush? Everyone was too aggressive. They never got the fat pitches because they swung at the first thing they saw.
That’s what happens when you let a team hang around in the game. Sooner or later the dribblers & bloops will get down for hits. Hudson pitched great, nothing was up. This game should have ended at least 5-1.
By Coach Smith
May 27, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
THIS IS PATHETIC
Now they are creating ways to lose on the road….
seeing eye singles, infield hits off the pitcher’s feet, stolen bases…
It all adds up to ANOTHER one-run loss and on the road….
This was a game that they NEEDED desperately to win…instead the way they lost it makes the road and one run loss stuff get right back in their heads for the whole damn road trip
By Del
May 27, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this
This team has the uncanny ability to turn a good fedeling about the team into one of disgust and dispair. First pitch outs, Tex and his patented DPs. Just makes me sad to see all this talent wasted on these road one run losses.
By Hue Jass
May 27, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
And the offense screws it up on the road AGAIN. Yeah, I know, it’s tough for one of the best offenses in the NL to score against a guy with an E.R.A of over 6(sarcasm), but I figured this team MIGHT be able to take one freakin pitch or two in an at-bat. I don’t know what it is about hitting at the Ted that makes this team so different, but I do know that if you can’t be patient at the plate, you’re not going to score very many runs, even if the guy’s E.R.A. is over 6.
By ZBrave
May 27, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
Blaming Cox for this game is ignorant -fastasballs
Can you honestly use your knowledge to tell us how you could justify leaving a pitcher who has just surrendered at least 8 hits, just got in and out of troubles in two innings, and he’s thrown 121 pitches? What in the world do you need the bullpen for?
By Deep Throat
May 27, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
Hey look, a one-run road loss. I’ve never that before.
It’s obvious Cox doesn’t trust the bullpen. And it was the bullpen that blew it. Maybe he was right there? Hudson threw 8 innings and gave up two runs…it’s not his fault that the Braves made Dave Bush look like a Cy Young candidate.
By FloridaBrave
May 27, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
I might get bashed for being negative but this loss was a major punch in the guy. I’m sorry, but TIM HUDSON vs. DAVE BUSH. Good teams win these match-ups. We’re still not where we should be yet and that’s the reality.
I don’t fault Cox here. I’d rather have Hudson on the hump there than guy in our pen. Cox is criticized for overworking his pen and then he’s shat on for stretching out our best starter.
The Branyan move was the move that cost us. I don’t care that he’s lefty and massive, he’s been in AAA for the whole year. You make Branyan beat you. Not an all-star SS in Hardy.
But overall, the Braves’ approach at the plate lost this game. Bush made a lot of mistakes early, we let him off the hook, and became lackadaisical. It’s the tale of two different teams- the Atlanta Braves at home and the Atlanta Braves on the road. Until we play on the road like we do at home, we’re not the team we all think they are.
On a brighter note, tomorrow’s a new day….
By Deep Throat
May 27, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
Hey look, a one-run road loss. I’ve never seen that before.
It’s obvious Cox doesn’t trust the bullpen. And it was the bullpen that blew it. Maybe he was right there? Hudson threw 8 innings and gave up two runs…it’s not his fault that the Braves made Dave Bush look like a Cy Young candidate.
By Dan
May 27, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this
Once he stole 3rd. should’ve walked Cameron. And try and get that ground ball double play. which Bennett normally gets ground balls. Made no sense pitching to him at that point.
By JC from UT
May 27, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
Mark in PA: did they say Diaz was going on thr DL?
By Overlord
May 27, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
fastasballs I agree on offense comment, but dont take COX out of the equation…… Tim gave what was necessary for the bullpen to rest. Plain stupyd to let Tim pitch into so much trouble in the 9th.
By N8
May 27, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
David Bush’s stats coming into tonight:
8 starts, 1-5 record, 46.66 IP, 10 HR allowed, 18 walks, 24 K’s, 6.56 ERA.
His line tonight:
7 IP, 2 ER (2 solo HR), 3 K’s and 1 walk.
I’ll leave it at that. NO insult or comment that I can pull from my bowl of sad, can compete with the above numbers. So I won’t try.
By Kev
May 27, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
fastballs
its true the offense didnt score as many runs as we would like…BUT you cant blame it ALL on them…they scored 2..this LOSS falls ON BOBBYs SHOULDERS!!!!!!..and guess what..we get to see more of this ‘til 09!!!!
This is the momentum we get after beating the best pitcher in baseball? Is playing on the road that hard? And I know this has been brought up several times already, but it is worth asking (again..and again…and again…) Why Bobby?! Why did Hudson need to stay in the game?!?!!!!!!! HE HAD LIKE 120 plus PITCHES…he would say this…”ahh.. i just wanted to rest the bullpen a bit”…Friggin Jack—-…
By Red Stripe Guy
May 27, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this
Boo smelly Jeff Bennett.
Hooray beer!
By FloridaBrave
May 27, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this
Right there with you, THB. I don’t blame anybody for being doom-and-gloom tonight. As CharlieAlphaBravo so adequately stated earlier today, I think we all got served a big helping of pee in our cheerios.
By fastasballs
May 27, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
If some of you really want to blame Cox for something tonight then complain about him letting Bennett pitch to Cameron with a 3-1 count & Hall on 3rd with 1 out.
Load the bases & go for the DP or force at home.
By Glenn
May 27, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
I hope someone points out how many first pitch outs they made in this loss on the road. They are a completely different team than when they are at home. It’s like they all forget how to play.
By Dylan
May 27, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
Dude I said,” Blanco is not just a CF”. Not what you said I said,” Blanco is just not a CF.” I meant he could play more than just CF. Dude, I didn’t say he would hit 300 in majors, I said he did in call up. Blanco had the same kind of record in minors but a few of you smart azz bloggers know it all. Does anyone feel good about losing, only a loser.
By Mark in PA
May 27, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this
A-ville—Pathology? It’s a freakin’ Greek tragedy!
IMO, it’s offense on the road. No clutch hits, that late DP.
Bennett letting the runner take third was bad, but it should have been irrelevant.
We’ll give ‘em heck tomorrow.
By Ahemmm
May 27, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this
fastasballs…… they beat those guys you mentioned by being patient. These guys were jumping on the first pitch with NO patience. When this is happening over and over as the game progresses, who should attempt to right the ship? Don’t you think Bobby has a take sign? Sure, the bats were impatient, but there has to be someone who can see this and do something about it. That would be Bobby and his authority to give a take sign or speak to a certain little Cuban and explain to him that he has a tired pitcher who needs a blow, so take a damn pitch or two!
By H-Ram
May 27, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
this is so frustrating…NOW i know why we only won 1 WS in 14 playoff appearances…outcoached from top to bottom Bobby…never learned the lesson…
By ZBrave
May 27, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
he pitched out of jams in the sixth, seventh, and eighth. how any of you can actually blame bobby for this is mind numbing -By uga-brave
Precisely because he pitched out of jams two innings in a row, it was time to pull him out. He surrended two one in 8 innings is irrelevant. It was a one run game then.
By uga-brave
May 27, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
swinging at the first pitch is really just part of the problem.
swinging at pitches that are out of the srike zone are more bothersome. we refuse to work the count in our favor and refuse to accept walks.
as far as approaches go there is nothing wrong with being aggressive but when your pitcher just throws 25 pitches in his half inning and you come up and swing at first pitch (francoeur and diaz) that is selfish and stupid.
By Stuart
May 27, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
The braves are a flawed team. The record on the road prove that. They do not have great speed and are lacking power from the OF positions. They do not execute and the rotation does not pitch enough innings.
Y’all do realize the braves split with the D’Backs without a starter going more than 4.2 innings. That wears on a bullpen. Bobby HAD to leave Huddy in the game, he had no one else. Who is he going to use, Buddy Caryle? His best arms had pitched multiple innings yesterday to make sure the win against Webb was preserved, which I totally agree with.
Joe Simpson is right, the main issue is the offense has stunk on the road. Tex is trying to pull EVERYTHING. Escobar was terrible at the dish tonight. The braves only saw 108 pitches tonight, or an average of 12 an inning. That will not get it done. Webb threw 100 in just over 4 innings yesterday.
It is only a matter of time until the things that are getting the braves beat on the road creep up and get them at home. On the good side, these things can be fixed if they will just do it.
I am not going to sleep a wink tonight because I am so p1ssed off.
By TexasBrave
May 27, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
I’m sorry I have defended Bobby quite a lot but that loss is on him. Yes the bats didn’t come alive and even though Jeff did give up the run, the team should have never been in the situation in the first place. Never mind that Bobby should have taken Huddy out after the 7th inning. But then to leave him in after one single, then a double. Should have brought in one of the lefties instead of the int. walk. Then should have brought in a fresh arm to pitch to Kendall. Yes it was a tough break on the ball to Huddy but he was gassed and not sharp which a new pitcher would have been.
Bobby needs to seriously turn over game situations to some one else and stay the he11 in the office.
By ZBrave
May 27, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
I don’t see why some of you used the fact that the offense sucked tonight to justify that leaving Hudson in in the 8th was the right decision. How offense was doing is not relevant to whether or not Hudson should be pulled at that point.
By H-Ram
May 27, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
bobby relies to much on one pitcher EVERY SINGLE year in the bullpen…this year he has a HARD ON for jeff bennett…
By Coach Smith
May 27, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
The first pitch swinging crap popped back up again tonight…
I don’t think YUNEL ESCOBAR is comfortable in the leadoff position..
Joe and Boog were commenting about how his average has been bad since moving there…
Maybe let BLANCO (works the count + high OBP) bat leadoff and move ESCOBAR back to 2nd
This would also allow KJ to hit lower in the order where he seems a better fit
Blanco
Escobar
Chipper
TEX
McCann
KJ/Frenchy
Frenchy/KJ
Kotsay
I still wouldn’t even mind seeing Kotsay in the 2 hole and Escobar in the 6th spot if you wanted to shake it up
By Dan
May 27, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
Overlord
I agree. KJ should stay down in the order BEHIND McCann. and move Blanco in the 1 or 2 hole. Blanco takes pitches UNLIKE some guys(yunel) Yunel should bat 2nd. Plus Blanco does have more speed. But BC doesn’t care for the small ball stuff. Bet he’s proud of the 2HRs tonight though.
By Mark in PA
May 27, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
In addition to the one run loss, another injury on the road…
Does anyone have the home/road splits on Braves injuries?
Correlation?
By N8
May 27, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this
For all of you standing by Cox on this one, that’s fine by me. One can argue both sides.
Tex and Jeff BOTH tried to pull outside pitches REPEATEDLY tonight. That can’t be on Cox. So I’ll give you that.
But we swung at a TON of first pitches tonight against a guy with 18 walks in just over 46 IP (3.52 per 9 IP), and we had 1 stinking walk tonight.
I think the Braves got a little too HR happy against a guy that has given up a bunch of HR’s so far this year.
At some point, Cox has to put a take sign on. So THAT is on him.
13 guys swung at the first pitch tonight. 8 guys made OUTS on the first pitch, 1 guy (Tex) got a first pitch single.
Just not a good approach, IMO.
By fastasballs
May 27, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
So if Cox had pulled Hudson & Boyer came in and gave up back to back jacks to take the loss then that would have been Cox’s fault as well, right?
I can’t even believe I’m defending Cox to be honest. I’m usually second guessing him myself quite often, but regardless when you can’t score more then two runs against a scrub pitcher with a 6.50 ERA you don’t deserve to win, period.
It’s not like Bush was great or got bailed out by amazing defensive plays. He simply threw his normal junk & the Braves couldn’t hit it.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 27, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
FlaBrave,
Right again. Huddy was fine and our two best relievers pitched two innings Monday.
The offense lost this game. Did the Braves have early dinner reservations or what?
I hope Diaz is OK but he and Frenchy drive me nuts with their one pitch, one out ABs. You wonder if these guys aren’t dumb as a bag of rocks. It’s all well and good to be aggressive but for crying out loud, understand the situation!!
Sixth inning, Huddy had thrown a bunch of pitches and at the top of the seventh here go Frenchy and Diaz, first pitch swinging. Smart, guys, Real smart.
Tex and Yunel were pretty impatient at times, too.
It’s as if Mr. Hyde inhabits this team away from Turner.
By N8
May 27, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this
Red Stripe Guy
“Boo smelly Jeff Bennett….Hooray beer!”
Best post of the week. Actually laughed out loud.
By Missing the Point
May 27, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this
This game wasn’t lost in the seventh, the eighth or the ninth. It wasn’t lost because Tim Hudson made a couple of bad pitches. It wasn’t lost because Bobby did or did not go to the pen.
It was lost because the offense goes BRAIN DEAD on the road! The pitching was good. The offense stunk.
If these guys can’t make good decisions at the plate, then give them take and hit signs until they prove they can think on the road with a bat in their hand like they think at home with a bat in their hand.
And by the way, Ron Gant is way off base tonight. He keeps talking about how Hudson left a couple of 0-2 pitches over the plate. Geez Gant! The guy was walking a tightrope all night without any run support. He threw a good game. I’ll take that out of him ANY day.
By Coach Smith
May 27, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this
Staurt
I’m upset too…BUT man you are a glass half-emtpy guy
You said: It is only a matter of time until the things that are getting the braves beat on the road creep up and get them at home
Well the GOOD things they do at home could just as easily emerge on the road and have them turn for the positive…
Just need to go out and take the next two…should’ve won but it ain’t the end of the world…I’m mad but at the same time we lost no ground and I believe they will get this turned around on the road
By Kris
May 27, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this
Can somebody please check Cox’s pulse? Does he do anything on the bench except pass gass? I think I am watching Weekend at Bernie’s just watching him. Is is against the law to tell your hitters to take a pitch?
BennetT nice way to keep the runner at second-unreal. Playoff teams do not play not to win and that’s exactly what happened tonight. The freaking Brewers can at least win a close game-11 wins in their final at bat. I bet we don’t have more than a couple. WAKE UP BRAVES!
By Josh from Columbus
May 27, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
DIAZ TO THE DISABLED LIST and Soriano will be activated tomorrow.
By uga-brave
May 27, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this
fastballs,
you are the voice of reason tonight.
if your staff gives up 3 runs on the road you should at least win 70% of the time.
our pitching this year has been better then just about anyone expected.
the one constant has been our inability to consistently score runs on the road.
for whatever reason, we dont make inferior pitchers work.
no excuse for being shutout in seven consecutive innings by three rag arms.
By Overlord
May 27, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
Is it the road? or is it the low temperatures that affect the braves?
By BravesFanInRockies
May 27, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
And those who say Cox should give the take sign —
The Braves aren’t a bunch of high schoolers. Yunel, Diaz, Frenchy — they’re experienced baseball players. They should be able to figure it out. Don’t blame the manager.
By fastasballs
May 27, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
Hudson was still effective going into & including the 8th. He was keeping everything down. You’re up by one run & facing a fairly powerful team so getting the ground ball is what you want.
He had given up a few hard hits, but for the most part it was bleeders & dribblers that did him & the Braves in.
By monty
May 27, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
Another excruciating one run loss! They have to be bad for morale. Got to be thinking what they could have done different in all these one run defeats. I think Bennet is Ok for earlier in the game but in the 9th with the game on the line it’s different.
By Tony Almeida
May 27, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
This is why players love to play for Cox. They walk all over him. It’s more their decisions on things then his.
By TJ
May 27, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
Bobby said Diaz definitely DL’d, and Soriano called up.
If Kotsay has to be DL’d also, I wonder if we might see Brandon Jones rather than Anderson?
Hopefully it won’t come to that.
By N8
May 27, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
Hey. Look on the bright side. The Braves only left 3 men on base tonight.
On a side note, anybody else notice that KJ now has more HR than Tex does?
Hudson deserved better than this. Then again, he usually does.
By Overlord
May 27, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
If JoJo has a blister…….WTF is he pitching tomorrow??? so we can excuse him for a bad outing because he has some blisters??? Thats just COXISH. Cant we trade for a better manager by july deadline?
By Stuart
May 27, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
Y’all,
Since Saturday, Boyer, Acosta, Bennett, and Stockman all had multiple inning outings. I know the bully has been good, but you can start scheduling the Tommy John surgeries if you keep using them as much as the braves do. Again, no starter went 5 in the ENTIRE Series against Arizona. BC had to give them time off, period. If he does not then they will be gassed by the All-Star break.
BTW, who would you rather pitch to, Mike Cameron or the reigning ROY and hot hitter Braum. I choose Cameron.
However, if you walk them both, do you really like the matchup of Ring/Ohman having to throw strikes vs. Prince without the benefit of an infield shift. If you get him out without a DP, who pitches to Hart?
Kotsay being out hurts this lineup bad. It brings KJ out of his best spot. The only thing the braves can do is use Blanco at leadoff and Escobar in the 2, and Anderson in the 8 hole I guess if Diaz and Kotsay are both DL’d
121 pitches (15.1 an inning) is not that bad if done only once in a while. He was on full rest and looked fluid.
Bobby Cox did not lose this game, bad ABs and the toll the lack of innings out of the SPs during the Arizona series is what lost them game tonight.
By Mark in PA
May 27, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this
JC in UTAH Re: DL for Diaz—they didn’t say. Carroll, I’m sure, is getting the official word right now, and will provide ASAP. I’ll update too if I hear anything.
[Some discussion of DL for Kotsay] (http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/braves/stories/2008/05/27/kotsay_0528.html) before the game, to make room for Soriano. All related and being considered, I’m sure.
By Carroll Rogers
May 27, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
Braves disabled matt Diaz with strained PCL and will send him to Atlanta for an MRI. they are activating Soriano…..be on the lookout for updated things on the website if you will. got deadlines to crack but thought i’d pass that along
By fastasballs
May 27, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
This road trip has started out just like all the ones prior to it. Lots of promise, but never an results, well any that are good.
I’m in full agreement with you guys on the lack of a “take sign”. Hasn’t seemed to exist the past few seasons.
Someone explain how the same group of hitters all seem to have an approach while hitting at home, yet on the road it all goes out the window, well except for Chipper.
Tex looks good for a few games because he isn’t trying to yank every outside pitch into the right field seats, then back to pulling the same pitch into double plays.
By Kev
May 27, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
To all out there defending Cox…you cant count on your Offense for EVERY game to be a blowout and score 5,6,7 runs…Stop looking at the players for fault in this game. This falls directly on the shoulder’s of Mr. Cox. Good teams are going to have to win some games 2-0 and 2-1. They’ll also win some 13-12 games…but not all the the time,you know..
There is absolutely no reason for Hudson to have been sent up to the plate to start the 8th…WE ALL knew Hudson was running out of gas after the 7th…THATS WHY you have a Bullpen…If you can’t rely on your bullpen to shut the door for two innings and preserve a two run lead, you shouldn’t try to count on them with a two run lead in the fifth inning the day before…
By Coach Smith
May 27, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
Overlord
People may think it is stupid but I think I agree with you about the TEMPERATURE thing….
They said even inside tonight it was less than 65 degrees and Joe and Boog both commented that it was chilly inside….
Look at the bulk of the road losses..Colorado, Pittsbugh, Philly, NY, Washington….and all those were earlier on when the temps were even colder…
On the other hand the weather at home has been good for the most part..
Maybe that is a factor for the offense
By Stuart
May 27, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith,
Did you not read the end of my post where I said those ‘things’ can be fixed.
I just made an observation. Home games can hide warts, and this bunch has some curable warts that for whatever reason are masked at home.
By Josh from Columbus
May 27, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
Didn’t know if you all saw [this](http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/braves/entries/2008/05/27/letshope_this.html#comment-68823103).
By DCbrave
May 27, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
The point is this: offense sucked tonight - yeah, no question; swinging on first pitches - yeah almost everybody except Chipper; but thanks to Hudson, after 7 innings, the Braves still managed to lead by one. The Braves should’ve won this one even though the offense sucked big time.
By N8
May 27, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
This game turned when Bennett ignored Hall at 2nd base.
I don’t mean to over-state the obvious (won’t be the first or last time I do it), but he obviously doesn’t score from 2nd base on that fly ball. He certainly doesn’t tag and go to 3rd.
I believe that 99 percent of the responsibility belongs to the pitcher in that situation. But couldn’t have Bobby called for McCann to go talk to him and remind him to pay attention to him out there?
I’m sure McCann assumed that Bennett would. But part of a catcher’s job, is to keep the pitcher’s head in the game at all times. ESPECIALLY with a guy capable of stealing at 2B when he’s the winning run and less than 2 are out.
For the record, Hall had 14 stolen bases SINCE 2006 coming into tonight’s game. Diaz has had 13 since then.
So THAT is how big of a brain-fart that is. Imagine how HARD we’d be laughing at the opponent, if Matt Diaz stole 3rd base to set up the winning SF in the bottom of the 9th.
Inexcusable.
By Dan
May 27, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
fastasballs
Lets just say…
Game 1 of a playoff series.
JJJ pitching Braves lead 2-1 going into the bottom of the 8th…. JJJ barely escaped the 6th and 7th. Plus has thrown about 110-115 pitches. Do you send him out for the 8th?
Bottom line is ….Gotta manage with the score being what it is at times. Yes it would’ve been great to see the Braves POUND Bush(no pun). But, you know what? They had the lead. period. work with it. Can’t always score 5+ per game.
By Coach Smith
May 27, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
I’d guess that if JOJO can’t go tommorrow that BUDDY would get the start….
Everyone still wanna argue with me and claim we don’t need to start going after another starter NOW?
By MIBravesFan
May 27, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this
Missing the Point: “It was lost because the offense goes BRAIN DEAD on the road! The pitching was good. The offense stunk.
If these guys can’t make good decisions at the plate, then give them take and hit signs until they prove they can think on the road with a bat in their hand like they think at home with a bat in their hand.”
Could not agree more. Huddy deserved to win this game, and the defense was brilliant. But until these guys start using their heads and producing with the bats on the road, the results are not going to change. It’s not because they don’t have the talent, because clearly they do! It’s for some unfathomable reason they don’t use their brains in their at-bats on the road.
By uga-brave
May 27, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this
stuart,
your 10:52 and 11:12 posts were pretty darn solid. nice job.
By Avatar
May 27, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
Another of DOB’s titles that ironically come back to bite us in the butt. I think he should eschew all baseball related titles on this blog from now on. Terrible way to lose IMO. Back on the road, another one run loss and allowed them to score a run in the last three straight innings to win the game. EL SUCKO
By N8
May 27, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
So Kotsay “might” be DL’d. Diaz HAS been DL’d. Leaving us Blanco, Infante and Jeff.
Am I forgetting somebody on the roster that can play OF?
By Dan
May 27, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this
LOL…. funny how some defend Cox that the BP has had to work alot…. but when others argue that there is NO need to use the SAME guys with a 5 and 4 run leads of a DH. or use 20 guys for 3 outs in other games… they defend him on that as well. TOOOOO funny.
By FloridaBrave
May 27, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this
N8,
I’m not sure that’s when the game “turned” but that definitely was one of biggest plays that contributed to the loss. But don’t spread the blame He didn’t have his head in the game and it cost us.
Yet another example of how brain-dead we go on the road.
By fastasballs
May 27, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
Is there a law that states anytime a Brave is about to be activated from the DL a current player must be injured the game before. It seems like it happens all the time.
Looks like the first trade we see is for a right handed power bat for left field. Diaz isn’t cutting it. Jones is a another lefty who would need to be platooned & his power #’s are way down compared to last season so he isn’t going to be an option. I think he’s the future/current Andy Marte.
Maybe Wren can pull off a JS type trade including Jones. Maybe something that benefits the team for a decade or so like the Marte deal.
By TexasBrave
May 27, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
fastballs yes if Cox had pulled Hudson and Boyer or whoever gives up runs then that’s the breaks, tip your cap to the other team and go get’em tomorrow.
I can understand leaving Hudson in there if his pitch count is down and if he has been for the most part breezing through the line up, but the fact remains that he was up over 100 pitches and in and out of trouble the last two innings before the eighth.
Should the offense scored more than two runs versus Bush? Absolutely, that was a p** poor hitting demonstration against a week pitcher. That is probably another reason I am really starting to turn sour on Bobby. A real coach tells them to be more patient at the plate. But oh no Bobby doesn’t want to take away their aggressiveness.
What it comes down to is that with the Braves up a run and a chance to make a change to a fresher pitcher Bobby chose to sit on his a$$ for once instead of going to the pen. Wrong time to do that.
By TJ
May 27, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this
Just a side note: I thought KJ, in addition to the HR, had a real good AB in the top of the 8th.
Hudson had struck out, and Escobar (again) went after the 1st pitch.
Not only did KJ take a couple of pitches, but he showed bunt on the first two… pretty nice move to give the defense something to think about, maybe move the corners in a step.
‘Course, he ended up grounding out to the pitcher, but I was impressed that he was thinking about what he was doing up there. Kinda rare, tonight anyway.
By MIBravesFan
May 27, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this
As for the temperature thing, it may well be true the offense has difficulty scoring runs in cooler temperatures, but if they hope to play in October, they darn well better figure out how to score runs when its cold, and the sooner, the better their chances of actually playing in October.
By mets fan in atlanta
May 27, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
I’m still in mourning…trust me, i’ve had serious doubts of my team here lately, but tonight gave me hope….Willie benched Delgado tonight, and started Tatis in the outfield. He’s been hot the last week, and continued to do it tonight. Church is still out of the lineup, just to let you know. So maybe Met fans should be booing Escobar. Granted, this was with Santana on the mound, but at least its a start. Now if they can only get something out of the other starters…..
By Dan
May 27, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith Everyone still wanna argue with me and claim we don’t need to start going after another starter NOW?
Yes i’ll argue. 1st of all. Hampton will come back soon. 2nd. Campillo will give us another 150+ innings 3rd. JoJo will give us lights out quality starts the rest of the year. 4th. Glavines only getting younger. SO…whats the need for more pitching.???? lol :) just kidding. I totally agre and have been saying the same thing. But i do not want Maddux back.
By 1957 Braves Fan
May 27, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this
Another tough road loss. The offense was impatient and settled for two early runs. Bobby left Hudson in too long. Let’s hope the people who get paid millions of dollars can figure out how to win enough games to get us back into the playoffs.
By fastasballs
May 27, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this
Dan
In your hypothetical playoff game do the Braves have Soriano, Smoltz & Gonzo or present day pen? If they have the trio, then hell no I don’t have him back out there.
If it’s the current pen, have they pen pitched countless innings the previous week?
Every game is different & countless factors will weigh on a manager’s decisions.
I don’t understand why most of you thought Hudson had clearly lost it on the mound tonight. Were you watching the game? His pitches were down, very few mistakes. His control was great. He wasn’t being pounded. The Brewers got hits on some very good pitches. I will agree Hudson didn’t finish off some guys he would have earlier in the game when he had them 0-2 & 1-2.
By fastasballs
May 27, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this
Bennet screwed up big time by not watching Hall. One more glance back by Bennett & he’s picked off.
Here’s my problem with Bobby tonight. Hall is on 3rd with 1 out & a 3-1 count on Cameron. Why the hell continue pitching to him when you could have loaded the bases with walks & taken your chances with a force out at the plate or possible DP.
At least give yourself a chance to get out of the inning. I’ve seen the exact strategy used countless times against the Braves & it’s worked quite a few of them.
By chrisklob
May 27, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
mets fan in atlanta,
Why the hell should Mets fans boo Escobar? For knocking Church out? Please. Church, along with every Mets fan should be grateful he wasn’t hurt more seriously. I appreciate the hustle and hard play that Church showed, but that was a very late and very poor attempt at a slide. I guarantee you that next time he pulls that crap with Esco that he’s going to be picking his teeth up out of the dirt because Esco won’t think twice about hitting him in the mouth with his throw.
By uga-brave
May 28, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this
another scary stat, tavarez and torres needed just 15 pitches to get 6 outs in the eighth and ninth innings. that cant happen in late close game situations.
By Dan
May 28, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this
fastasballs.
What makes this game any different though. All the sudden the pen can’t work 2 more innings? Just saying. not trying to argue but its hard to understand that that the pen has been great for the most part of the season, and now its not good enough for 6 outs? Regardless if Sor,Gonz,or Smoltz is in there. Which is a better reason to use the pen… knowing back up is on the way.
By bravesfan
May 28, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this
The Mississippi Braves announce that Atlanta Braves LHP Mike Gonzalez will be in Mississippi on Wednesday and is scheduled to make rehab appearances on Wednesday and Friday nights at Trustmark Park.
By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)
May 28, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this
BOBBY COX !
OVERRATED !
CLAP CLAP !
CLAP CLAP CLAP !
BOBBY COX !
OVERRATED !
CLAP CLAP !
CLAP CLAP CLAP !
BOBBY COX !
OVERRATED !
CLAP CLAP !
CLAP CLAP CLAP !
By TexasBrave
May 28, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this
fastballs your last is another good point why Bobby mismanaged this game tonight.
By fastasballs
May 28, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this
Dan
Every game is different, just is. If it was any starter other than Hudson I would have been right with you to pull him, but he had been getting ground balls all night long & with a 1 run lead I’m sticking with him.
I disagree A LOT with Cox, but not about leaving Hudson in, at least not tonight.
By mr baseball
May 28, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this
Another example from the Braves’ Hall of Fame manager that his decisions have repercussions, even the day after he makes them.
This game was lost in large part yesterday afternoon. Cox decided to use his 2 best relievers for 2 innings each with the Braves ahead by 4 runs. Absolutely no concern about what might happen in the next game. In a 1 or 2-run game, maybe. But with the team ahead by 4 runs, he could have used Stockman or Ohman for an inning, and held Boyer until the 9th.
That’s a large part of the reason he left Hudson in as long as he did. He knew it was either Hudson or his 4th best reliever (Bennett). Hudson still had his stuff in the last inning; the ball that bounced off his foot was a fluke. Leaving him in was not Cox’s mistake. Leaving himself without his 2 best relievers was.
Not exactly a stellar effort by the offense. Tex might wind up with fairly typical stats for himself by the end of the season, but it gets a little old watching him waste opportunities created by Chipper. Is it heresy to wonder if the team would be better off with McCann in the cleanup spot and Tex 5th if McCann continues to swing a better bat, especially with runners on base.
By 1957 Braves Fan
May 28, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this
Our Braves lose another winnable game on the road. The offense gets impatient and settles for two solo home runs early. Bobby lets Hudson pitch an extra inning. Instead of trying to play harder I want our team to try to play smarter. We can’t afford to waste good pitching performances.
By fastasballs
May 28, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this
Good post Mr B
I’m in full agreement. This isn’t the first or the last time Cox has over worked the pen prior to a road trip & it seems to always cost them.
Seems he is over protective of getting that last victory before a trip, regardless of how it sets up the following day’s bullpen.
Regardless when your offense can’t muster a grand total of two runs off a junk baller you are not going to win many games.
When is the last time Bennett was not used in a game? Seems like he’s pitched virtually every game for a week straight.
By mr baseball
May 28, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this
Fastasballs:
If you’re going to second guess Cox (something I obviously have no problem in doing), you need to think out the situation beyond whatever it was you disagreed with.
Cox did the right thing having Bennett pitch to Cameron. If you walk him, you’re pretty much obligated to walk Braun, because you’re not going to pitch to the other team’s best hitter in that situation.
What Cox was probably hoping for was to get Cameron out — and he was the weakest hitter the Braves were going to face from that point — and then walk Braun. He would either have brought Ohman or Ring in to face Fielder, or walked Fielder intentionally and try to get Hart with the bases loaded.
Bennett screwed up when he ignored Hall, but he probably should not have been in the game in that situation, and probably won’t be again with Soriano and hopefully Smoltz on the way back. He is the not the guy to be on the mound in the 9th inning of a tied game, but Cox painted himself into a corner with his bullpen decisions Monday.
By A-ville Rangers
May 28, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this
Logic tells me these one run losses are a fluke.With every 4-5 5-6 and 2-3 loss it gets harder to think there isn’t SOMETHING in this team’s makeup other than a cycle or random luck going on.All those years of getting clutch hits in close games was more than luck,maybe this is too.
By Carroll Rogers
May 28, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this
Here’s what Bobby said about leaving Huddy in, or what he said about the situation with the bullpen, which kind of explains his move in reverse:
“I wasn’t going to use boyer at all, Bennett to one hitter or an inning and Acosta to close, and that was it. But (Hudson) was plenty strong. You can subtract four off his total (for the intentional walk). He got the last out.”
Lot of smart discussion tonight and while I was surprised to see Huddy stay in so long, it made sense when you consider what cards Bobby had to play from the pen. And when you think about the fact that no starter went more than five innings in the Dbacks series. it was 4 1/3 by JJ, 4 2/3 by Glavine, 4 by Campillo, 5 by Jo-Jo.
one question i do have, and didn’t think to ask was about ohman. he was warming up. could he have come in to face branyan? tho walking him to bring up the righty hardy almost worked.
don’t think the game turned in the ninth tho - whoever said that - it really turned in the eighth. one of those balls needed to be an out and it wasn’t. three two-out hits in four batters (not including Branyan walk) - that’s pretty impressive for Brewers.
i thought Stuart’s post where he talks about how few pitches the braves saw offensively, was a really interesting tidbit. and looking at how many pitches the braves saw vs. webb …insightful stuff.
just looking back over the scorebook and thinking bout kelly’s catch for the third out in the eighth. things could have gotten a whole lot worse. or as huddy pointed out, that ball doesn’t hit his foot, it’s going into center field, that’s two runs that score instead of one.
anyway, officially babbling now. road woes are not over, despite who’s doing the typing, eh?
oh and greg norton can also play left field. but if kotsay’s back is still a problem in the next couple of days, the braves will probably have to make another move. but kotsay is counting on it getting better within days.
By pcbrave
May 28, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this
i blame the blue jerseys, they are sitting in that locker taking up space, obviously caused this loss and the injury to diaz (laughs)
By mets fan in atlanta
May 28, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this
The comment about the Mets fans booing Church was made toungue-in-cheek, mainly because the Braves fans sure booed Church when given the chance, but Church is the one who hasn’t started a game since that night. He was actually sent home today and told to avoid the bright lights. I was at the game last Thursday when Church made his pinch-hit appearance against the braves. I told my friend with me, “Watch this, they are going to boo him when he steps in the box…” and sure enough they did.
BTW, has anyone noticed how the Braves fans now boo the first time the opposing pitcher throws to first base? Is that not the dumbest thing in the world? Used to, pitchers were allowed to throw or look over once or twice because its part of the game. (cough, Jeff Bennett, cough) Notice they don’t boo their own pitcher who may throw multiple times, but let the opposing pitcher throw once-let the boos begin. I guess its because they won’t get on their own players or managers (i’m not saying its a good thing or a bad thing), but they figure booing a throw to 1st base is a safe boo. haha I just think it makes them look dumb. Then again, these fans also start “the wave” in a one-run game time and time again, in the later innings, right when the braves pitcher is about to throw a crucial pitch, they will be sending the wave behind home plate. Maybe i’m crazy, but seems like that might distract a pitcher. Again, maybe i’m wrong, but i thought “the wave” was meant to be started when the game is out of reach, and everyone is getting bored in the stands.
Sorry, just a couple things i noticed sitting at Turner field every freakin day last week.
By Mike in LA
May 28, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this
How bout this for an explanation for the loss, the Brewers played a good game. They hung in and made a tough pitcher go deep into a lot of counts, they came up with some very clutch hits (including the 0-2 double in the 8th), and they executed perfectly in the 9th. It was a tough loss for the Braves but don’t forget there was another team out there. The Braves need to work the count a little more, especially Escobar in my opinion. He’s not the same hitter leading off as he is in the number 2 slot. Blanco would be best leading off I think
By N8
May 28, 2008 12:52 AM | Link to this
mr baseball
Woah. Be careful dude. Beware the of the wrath, when suggesting that there might be a better option on the team for the cleanup spot.
By FloridaBrave
May 28, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this
Carroll,
If Ohman was brought in to face Branyan, the Brewers would have pinch hit Bill Hall there who’s hitting over .400 vs. lefties.
By steve
May 28, 2008 12:57 AM | Link to this
hey fastaballs, so you’re saying it’s a good idea to walk cameron and probably braun to get to fielder, huh. yeah, that cox guy really sucks. pitch to the guy barely hitting his weight instead of a guy who hit a jillion homers last year. what was bobby thinking? who cares what the count is to cameron.
By N8
May 28, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this
Mike in LA
Very good point about there being “another team out there”.
Too often (myself included), we expect things to go perfectly for the Braves. Maybe it’s because for over a decade (many playoff series not included), things did work to perfection night in and night out.
But I’m afraid that on the road “the other team” has been better far too often for a team that fancies themselves as a legit playoff contender.
Can it get fixed? Sure. Will it? That’s why they play the games, right?
Either way, tonights game was entertaining, and fun (for 8 innings) to watch. Hudson was brilliant (couldn’t ask for much more - without being considered greedy), and Chipper keeps on ticking, and even showed some hustle taking third on that fly-ball earlier in the game.
This team is “close” to being really frickin good. But then again, the 2006 and 2007 teams were “close” too. Too soon to tell if the 2008 version will have the same fate as the past two, or buck the odds and overcome some SERIOUSLY bad hitting on the road.
By Mark in PA
May 28, 2008 1:32 AM | Link to this
Relax, all. One loss for Carroll must be followed by three or more wins. The stats prove this—with a sample size of twelve games!
A-ville, I posted that the ‘one run game record will even out’ back when we were 0-3 in one run games. I continue to eat those words a few times each road trip. Does batting in the top half change things that much? Crowd noise? THe on-deck circle color?
I’m sure that many successful and well-paid members of the Braves organization have wracked their brains to find out what the SOMETHING is that’s causing this.
Apparently, they haven’t found it yet.
By Kev
May 28, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this
Fasten your seatbelts for tomorrow fellas…cause with Jo Jo on the mound…its going to get BUMPY…REAL BUMPY!!!!
By Wayne in Utah
May 28, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this
Actually, I think this game was lost way back in 1947, when 6 year old Bobby Cox had a nightmare about a boat named “The Cameron”, which as it was steaming down the “Hudson” River, it ran into a “Hardy” conglomerate of logs, that caused “The Cameron” to be sacrificed to the waves.
Give it a rest guys….it’s called a loss. It is so damned easy to second guess from the comfort of the keyboard.
Personally, I think it is the jinx of “The Carroll.” If she had just had the courage to go for a walk in the brisk Milwaukee air this morning, then things would have been different. (sorry, Carroll, couldn’t resist!)
Let’s just get over it. Our bullpen has done a remarkably wonderful job the past few weeks, and they are certainly overworked. Unfortunately, Bobby doesn’t have hindsight. And it is definitely Bobby’s fault that our other starters can’t go over 5 innings!!! Shame on you Bobby for not having starters who can’t go over 5 on a regular basis.
Let’s trade for a better manager. Heck, our Hall of Famer is certainly not good enough. Maybe the Mets would trade us Willie Randolph for Bobby! Now that would be a good trade.
Geezz…..
By mr baseball
May 28, 2008 1:40 AM | Link to this
N8:
Not going to lose any sleep if any of my observations are not received very favorably. Comes with the territory when you think a little outside the box, an area I believe you are somewhat familiar with.
Forgot to get back to you a while ago about the recent UGa football player who played high school ball in my area. Name is Sean Bailey. His dad Stacy was a pretty good WR for the Falcons. Son’s trying to follow in father’s footsteps.
If you come across anything about him with the Chiefs, keep us updated. Probably some other Georgia grads on here who would be interested.
One more batting order possibility: If Blanco continues to hit & Kotsay is out for a while, would it make more sense to let him bat leadoff, drop Yunel to 2nd and have KJ hit 7th to give him more RBI opportunities.
Having Blanco and Infante, who would be likely to get most of the starts in CF if Kotsay is out, hitting 7th & 8th would make the team a little light in the RBI department at the bottom of the lineup.
Can’t do much with a speed guy at the bottom of the order, and all the walks Blanco has drawn don’t accomplish a lot out of the 8th spot.
By TJ
May 28, 2008 1:46 AM | Link to this
Fasten your seatbelts for tomorrow fellas…cause with Jo Jo on the mound…its going to get BUMPY…REAL BUMPY!!!!
Yeah, that’ll be interesting with all those righties the Brew throws at you. I really wouldn’t be surprised to hear that Jo-Jo’s blisters are acting up, and Carlyle gets the start. Hope not. But wouldn’t be surprised.
By Quack Quack
May 28, 2008 2:11 AM | Link to this
Braves should have no trouble tonight. Dave Bush is terrible, only one good start all year. Matt
Thanks Matt, you jerk. Now I know why we lost. Did none of you young punks ever have a baseball mentor who taught you not to irritate the BB gods with punktalk b4 the game is even played?
By Quack Quack
May 28, 2008 2:27 AM | Link to this
FJR is still attacking me for somehting I said 5 hours ago..he is attempting to be a smart @zz with his comments…coach smith
man you sound as bad as chase or overlord, man up dude
By N8
May 28, 2008 2:30 AM | Link to this
mr baseball
I just looked at the Chiefs “roster” on their official site, and they have 93 guys listed, which includes all draft picks and UDFA’s they’ve signed since the draft. But Sean Bailey isn’t listed.
I found a link to a story that said he was signed by the Chiefs on May 2nd. But like I said, he’s not on their roster. Not sure what that means.
I’ll keep you posted.
Good night all (including Bobby - hope the nightmares end - or at least don’t include Suppan).
By Quack Quack
May 28, 2008 2:42 AM | Link to this
I guess some guy named Kotsay doesn’t appear in their copy of the Braves’ media guide.Fastasballs
Kotsay wasn’t the reason. they had already passed on Druw b4 they got Kotsay
By Quack Quack
May 28, 2008 3:35 AM | Link to this
Blanco had the same kind of record in minors but a few of you smart azz bloggers know it all. Dylan
For Crissakes man, Blanco’s numbers in the minors were much better than Anderson’s as far as getting on base is concerned. and 50 MLB at bats last season don’t mean squat, he ain’t tearing up AAA getting on base even with his hot start.lousy .325 OBP again
By Moby Grape
May 28, 2008 3:57 AM | Link to this
Logic tells me these one run losses are a fluke.With every 4-5 5-6 and 2-3 loss it gets harder to think there isn’t SOMETHING in this team’s makeup other than a cycle or random luck going on.A-Ville
I think it’s mental now. It’s on their minds and they are trying too hard. I think they had the same problem in post-season appearances the last 4 or 5 years that they got there. Used to know a pretty successful coach who would say that “mental is to physical as three is to one”. Something of an exaggeration perhaps, but a valid point IMO. You gotta stay loose and confident if you want to win.
By Pete H.
May 28, 2008 4:24 AM | Link to this
Spahn vs Satch, great footage. Guess who wins?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKNV-GxeAio&feature=related
By Bill
May 28, 2008 6:54 AM | Link to this
I said two years ago that this team is going nowhere until it is completely blown up. As much as I love B. Cox, Smoltz and Glavine it’s time for a change. They have had their day. I had rather suffer with a young staff than put up with worn out pitchers. I was against the Tex trade and still don’t like it. I would trade him as as soon as I could get a good deal. He’s not worth the money he will get. With all the steroid mess, the game is changing. The Braves need better young pitching and more speed.
By JCFROMUT
May 28, 2008 7:11 AM | Link to this
Xavier Nady needs to be aquired for…?
By Efrim
May 28, 2008 7:37 AM | Link to this
This loss was about the Braves struggling to score runs on the road…..not BC leaving Tim Hudson in. The offensive approach was bad. This wasn’t Johan Santana on the mound, you didn’t need to go up there swinging at the first couple of pitches.
I wouldn’t be mad if this is a loss we suffered at home. 6-17 on the road is embarassing.
By Will
May 28, 2008 8:00 AM | Link to this
“Milwauke Not at its Best” but still good enough to beat the hapless road Braves. Same story different day! This team looks like a world series contender at home and a AAA team on the road.
By Jersey Gil
May 28, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this
Relax people, Bobby Cox know what to do..he problaly consult with Huddy before he let him pitch the 8th. Bobby it right, that why he get pay to make those kind of decision. Offense it to blame, after the second inning( after Blanco Homer), everybody was swimging to the fense, Bush make his adjustment to the batters, not the Braves. Good News Fish loss last night Bad new Phillis continuos in ranpage of scoring run in a bunchs.
By McFann
May 28, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this
How cann any of you blame this loss on Bobby?! The Braves scored TWO FREAKIN’ RUNS!! Bobby stuck with Timmy because he’d only given up two runs through eight! One would think that our offense could score more than that! But apparently they left their bats at Turner Field!
And yeah, great job by Bennett to pay attention to the runner! Big whoop he only had 14 SB in the last two years combined or whatever! If he’s not Prince Fielder, watch the man! Now that’s 34 stolen bases of McCann already!
And the Braves’ website is the LAMEST website on the planet. No photos of Blanco’s first big league homer! (No photos of McCann’s first big league triple.) My sister wanted a photo of Johnson’s homer—NOT A ONE! But they got a picture of Bush throwin’, in case anyone here is desperate.
And last but not least: McCann snapped his hitting streak!!! WHY?? WHY?? I knew I shouldn’t have kept score!!! Pathetic game!! PATHETIC!!
Sorry for the rant. Time for breakfast.
By Efrim
May 28, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this
85 runs scored on the road
93 runs given up on the road
6-17 record?
That can’t be right. Can someone confirm?
163 runs scored at home
106 runs given up at home
22-7 record?
Seems like we are terribly unlucky on the road and a little lucky at home.
By McFann
May 28, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this
Wayne—
Hilarious post at 1:34!
Trade Bobby for Willie…Ha! That’s a hot one!
By Shaun
May 28, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this
McFann, hopefully everyone knows no one is a bigger Bobby Cox fan than I am. But I think it is fair to question his decision to stick with Hudson and allow him to throw over 120 pitches.
I do agree that you don’t expect this offense to score only two runs but there aren’t many pitchers who don’t start to struggle at around 100 pitches.
Tough luck game (yeah, I said it). Does anyone still deny luck plays a significant role in close games after that 8th inning (notice I didn’t say it’s all luck)? Three ground balls changed the game.
By McFann
May 28, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
ncscoots (whose post at 9:14 I somehow missed)—
I think the shift was on his back foot last year. I could be wrong, but I’m pretty sure they were showing the difference was that he didn’t have more weight shifted on his back foot this year. Hmm…We gotta get SportsSouth to show that again.
By Efrim
May 28, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this
Tough luck game (yeah, I said it).
I agree. And how about the balls that found holes all game which led to Hudson having a high pitch count?
By Johnny g
May 28, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this
tough luck for Hudson (surprise, surprise). I see the point of Cox leaving him in. Hudson is a trooper and I’d go to war with him every day of the week.
Now if Kotsay lands on the DL who comes up? Josh Anderson? Matt Young? Gorkys? Heyward? B. Jones?
I’d have to say Gorkys and Heyward are long shots… Do we bring up Jones to try and showcase him again? We’ll see. Matt young is a .310 hitter in AA with no pop in his bat, but the boy can hit
By Renegator
May 28, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this
Realistic record over this 6 game road trip: 2-4.
By Efrim
May 28, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
Johnny g, Jason Heyward is 18 years old and won’t be coming up this year or next. In fact, a lot would have to go right for him to make an appearance in 2010 with the big club.
By Coach Smith
May 28, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this
Since everyone wanted to shoot down my HARANG option for the Braves…
What about a trade with the PIRATES to aquire IAN SNELL and XAVIER NADY?
Snell has 2 years left on his contract with a club option..and NADY will be a free agent
I think, in addition to pitching, we need some POWER from left field…
Would anyone be interested in renting ADAM DUNN and getting Bronson ARROYO along with him from the REDS?
You guys can argue the HARANG thing..BUT the REDS almost have to trade DUNN and GRIFFEY…they can’t let them walk out for nothing and they can’t afford to resign them
Could we also start Terrence Mooore’s annual GRIFFEY to ATLANTA watch?
Could we cherry pick ZACK GRIENKE from the Royals?
By Lew
May 28, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this
MetsFanIn Atl-I agree that booing throws to first holding runners is mystifying, but it isn’t just happening in Atlanta-it happens everywhere.
I lay the blame for this one on lack of hitting. Bobby has to do what he has to do with a depleted pitching staff and sometimes the players just have to suck it up. I’m sorry, but a reliever pitching a few innings a week is not a hardship-no matter how much y’all scream about it. Tell me how tired they are in August and maybe I’ll agree. Right now? Not so much. Besides-being tired had nothing whatsoever to do with not holding a runner on second with less than two outs in the bottom of the ninth. THAT was stupid.
No, look to Chipper on base twice with less than two outs (NO ONE out in the ninth) with Tex and Mac coming up. The result? Nothing. In scoring position in the first and one out after Bush had just given up a HR and a double. That was the time to take him out-when he was on the ropes early. THAT is where the problem lies.
It isn’t early in the season anymore, so the slow start excuse is getting lame. Tex needs to be hitting and hitting for power. The time came weeks ago. Let’s start to see some results. Two runs against the Brewers when they’ve struggled all year and were tired from a huge road trip is pitiful.
Another minor item. Did anyone else see the Brewers’ feed last night? Was it just me or were the Brewers TV team the least informed and most clueless analysts you’ve heard in a long time? I sure thought so.
By KC
May 28, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this
Well, to look on the bright side… Smoltz and Soriano should both be in the pen soon (with Gonzo to follow not long after). And if those guys are in the pen, we - in all likelihood - don’t lose that game last night.
The bullpen’s been solid, but there have been at least 2-3 losses this year that were a result of lack of depth in the bullpen. That figures to improve greatly in the very near future.
And I’m perfectly aware that I cannot hold my breath on this one, but… hopefully, we’ll have Hampton back soon, which would be a HUGE lift to this pitching staff.
By macdwolfpack
May 28, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this
Another typical Braves road game. Braves score early lose any drive to put the opponent away, don’t hit any more and lose the game at the end.
Title at the top of this blog “Milwaukee not at it’s best” maybe you should change that Carroll and say “Atlanta seldom at it’s best when on the road”.
It’s obvious even a struggling team like Milwaukee doesn’t have to be at it’s best to beat this Braves team on the road.
By Renegator
May 28, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this
KC
Good point at 9:41. I was thinking the same thing. With Gonzo or Soriano or Smoltz in the game for the 8th and 9th last night - we probably don’t lose that game.
That being said - when the Brewers scored one run in the 7th last night - I turned to my wife and told her that the Braves were going to lose that game. You could just feel it coming a mile away…
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
May 28, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
If you check out Coach’s midnight post you’ll see that he is now proving that he is a Little League coach. Is that your team cheer??
How much jealousy can we see in that post?? How much immaturity??
How much more can we do to prove that most of the blog doesn’t care what your opinion is??
By Big Easy
May 28, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this
McFann, you are correct. BMac was on his back foot more last year. This year he is staying more balanced, and not pulling off the ball as much. As a result, he is killing the ball.
~E~
By Jersey Gil
May 28, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this
LEW Agree 100% with you about the Brew TV Team, no even the names i’m reconice it…
By Efrim
May 28, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this
Lew
I agree on Tex, but Frenchy needs to start producing as well. 718 OPS through 52 games is pretty bad man. I know he is young, but he has played almost three full seasons.
You’re right though, it isn’t early and the Braves have scored 85 runs in 23 road games. 3.8 runs per game for this team is a bad mark on the road. Really bad.
The blame lies on three players, Frenchy, Tex, and Matty Diaz. It’s a shame what happened to Diaz, because he is a gamer and a real good guy, but the man was sporting a 250/270/311 line through 132 at bats.
By eware
May 28, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this
Man, Heyward went 4 for 5 last night with a homer and a double. He’s now batting .340 - when’s he getting promoted to Myrtle Beach? Dude is raking! Love it!
By geauxbraves2000
May 28, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
I don’t blame BC for leaving Huddy in, he made some great pitches but somehow they just found holes. I do blame BC for the lack of plate discipline, he’s the manager, he should recognize immediately the offense wasn’t making Bush work and he should’ve done something about it. I know he doesn’t scold his team publicy, but they do have a clubhouse.
Geaux Braves!!
By STRETCH
May 28, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this
Its mental now folks, i dont know if the players think so, but its gotten mental for me. I got home, turned on ESPN to check the scores and i see the Braves up 2-1 going to the eighth.
At that moment, I said to myself …”watch they find a way to lose.” And miraculously they did. WOW! 6-17 on the road and still losing in the most unbelievable and unimaginable ways. Win atleast 5 of those games and they are sitting pretty good at 33-19.
Heres what have seen so far about these years and past versions of the Braves:
They are hurting for another starter. Look at what the starters have done the past couple weeks, not getting past the 5th and sometimes 4th innings is NOT good.
The offense continues to do the same little league thing at the plate. Its like they go brain dead when on the road. 2 runs against Bush?
So if you used Boyer, Acosta, Bennett and Stockman so much, where are the other arms out of the pen???
Tex and McCann, flip flop those guys cause Macs got the better bat so far this season, heck even KJ has more homers than Tex!
Even if Hudson still had “good stuff”, as Bobby said, its MLB people! If you pitch long enough, the batters WILL adjust and they WILL do what they gotta to win the game. They made adjustments, Cox didnt…SIMPLE. In games like that you have to adjust and keep them off balance. Remember that 99 World Series games 1 and 2 when Bobby left Maddux and Glavine in too long…the Braves left Yankee stadium down 0-2 instead of up 2-0.
And that my friends is why this team has 1 ring in 14 years of post-season play. They will never win another championship with BOBBY at the helm…NEVER.
By Efrim
May 28, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this
Renegator
That being said - when the Brewers scored one run in the 7th last night - I turned to my wife and told her that the Braves were going to lose that game. You could just feel it coming a mile away…
Can’t say I didn’t share the same feeling man. I just had a feeling that the Braves weren’t going to score anymore runs.
By McFann
May 28, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
Shaun—
But Timmy didn’t “struggle” to the point of giving up too many runs to overcome. Yeah, he got a lot of guys on base, but only two scored. He gave us every chance to win. It was perfectly understandable that Bobby left him in (for me, anyway). I personally was relieved that Bobby stuck with Timmy. Unfortunately, the offense forgot what to do, so that for some reason makes Timmy look “bad” to some.
What I don’t get is why Timmy gives up 2 runs through eight, and “Bobby should have taken him out”. Ho-Ho gives up five in 6 1/3 against the Phillies, and it was “his best start ever”. Why is that? Ho-Ho throws 105 pitches in 6 1/3, and it’s GREAT! But Timmy…That, the runner’s box at first base, and range factor are the only things about baseball I do not understand.
By Talk About Inappropriate
May 28, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this
Hayes, 25, of Cumming and three friends had been drinking beer at the game before fell off an upper-level railing that he was sliding down rather than taking the stairs, one of the friends told police.
Vote for this story!
Late Tuesday police said they didn’t have any suspects in the case.
Vote for this story!
Though his death was ruled an accident, authorities don’t yet know what caused the boy to drown, Reese said.
Vote for this story!
The driver of the other car turned out to be Shani’s father, who looked for the teenager beneath the crumpled car.
Her friends plan to have bracelets made with Courtney’s favorite Bible verse engraved on it, Proverbs 3:5, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
Vote for this story!
By McFann
May 28, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this
OK, thanks, Big E. I’m very disappointed that his hitting streak ended, but I sure can’t ask for better offensive numbers.
I’ve broken down and started voting for All-Stars (twice). McCann and Chipper have just got to go!
By 18 Wheels of Love
May 28, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this
ROAD HEAD CASES To the tune of ‘Road Cases’ with all apologies to The Drive-By Truckers
(18WOL / DOB)
We got them road head cases
Play like asses, fall on faces, play our worst, and blame the umps.
Got them road head cases take more pills than they will prescribe per ounce
Play our game with them road head cases, Advil and a can of cold Red Bull
All our players on every one or maybe just LWJ
Gonna get ourselves a big medicine bag, maybe even a suitcase
Kotsay and Chipper need two for the back.
Hope it don’t bite us in the a*.
Got them road head cases…
Someday we’ll beat our road head cases, when we don’t play anymore
To pay off that 90 million debt (10 million less than it was before)
One day we’ll beat our road head cases, when we don’t need to play anymore
When we outplay our youthfulness,
The only thing road head cases are useful for.
Got them pretty road head cases.
By DAP
May 28, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this
regenerator realistically, we are 0-1 with 5 games to play on the road trip.
By Shaun
May 28, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
Lew, since May 17 Tex is hitting .366/.422/.488.
Regarding the offense on the road, the Braves are 8th in the league in road OPS, 9th in road on-base and 4th in road slugging but dead last in road runs. They have grounded in to 28 double plays on the road, the most in the league.
Jeff Francoeur and Mark Kotsay both rank in the bottom 35 in road OPS among players with at least 75 plate appearances, and Francoeur has the most plate appearances on the team on the road. Never good when your worst regular has the most plate appearances.
Escobar is only one behind the league leader with 6 GDP (James Loney has 7). Kotsay has 5. McCann has 4. Chipper has 3. Tex has 3.
But, this could be a positive sign. We are only talking six double plays for the team road leader. That’s such a small amount that I think you have to figure there is nothing that makes these players susceptible to hitting in to double plays. It’s something that’s just happening.
By ncscoots
May 28, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this
McFann, Big Easy, maybe I worded that wrong re McCann’s swing. Whether he was on his back foot more or less last year or this has nothing to do with his weight transfer and balance. It’s his load at the plate I was thinking of.
Maybe caveman could do a little better analysis, he’s the hitter in the bunch (I was a pitcher, all those hitters are just knuckle-draggers to me, LOL).
In any event, he just looks as if he’s coiling more in his load, to me. But I haven’t exactly been breaking down film on him, either. :-)
By FloridaBrave
May 28, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
Gorkys Hernandez returns today for Myrtle Beach.
By Shaun
May 28, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
McFann, I certainly agree that Hudson pitched good enough to win and you can’t blame him for the loss. But the situation what it was, I think it’s fair to question Cox’s decision. I also think those who question that decision would also have to question it if the Braves had pulled it out.
I’m of the mindset that in general it’s not a good idea for a pitcher to go over 100 pitches if he’s not throwing a shutout or something like that. Obviously there are some exceptions. I don’t know if this situation was one of those exceptions but I think it’s a fair question as to whether it was.
By Random
May 28, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
KC: “Well, to look on the bright side… Smoltz and Soriano should both be in the pen soon (with Gonzo to follow not long after).”
Are you really inhaling the smoke the Braves are blowing?
I’m afraid neither Smoltz nor Soriano has a bright side any more — they’ve both gone as dark as Hampton.
I truly am despairing.
By Efrim
May 28, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
Shaun
Escobar doesn’t get the ball in the air that frequently. That could have something to do with the double plays.
By Rahul
May 28, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this
Yeah, Escobar hits 60% Ground balls, and combined with his not exactly blazing speed, that’ll get you some double plays
By McFann
May 28, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this
ncscoots—
OK, I know what you’re talking about. Here’s an article on the subject. (Please keep in mind that it’s “old”—from 5/17/08. But it still covers what we’re discussing.)
Shaun—
We cann sit here and point fingers all day. I think it was better to stick with Timmy than to put in someone like Boyer, who might have let it get out of hand. Yeah, I don’t like to see a guy throw 120 pitches, either. But he gave them a chance to win. This loss is on the offense—not Timmy or Bobby. We can’t be sure that someone in the ‘pen wouldn’t have given up that run—or even more—in the eighth.
By Daybed Wagmoe
May 28, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this
Nice job 18 Wheels of Love!!
By Shamus Thacker
May 28, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
Carroll, my nephew is phobically afraid to fly. His wife insisted he fly with her whenever/wherever she desired. As a barnyard psychologist, I decided to rectify the sitchiation. I sent all the Internet crash videos I could find. He no longer flies. They get along fine.
Ziggy Freud I ain’t, but pretty good eh? And naw, I ain’t Cuhnaydiun!
By David O'Brien
May 28, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
REM tonight on Austin City Limits. (Someone asked last week about when that show would air.)
By Lew
May 28, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
Shaun-Yes, Tex is hitting .360 something in that span and yet is STILL batting only .260 something overall. He still only has 5 HR (Yunel has four) and left Chipper standing out there twiddling his thumbs twice last night when either time (especially in the first when we had Bush on the ropes) had he knocked the run in, would have likely ended the game in a different manner.
Cherry pick what games you want to, but Tex has been an offensive disappointment to this point of the season. No way around it. I’m one of the OPTIMISTS and I still can’t spin this one any other way.
By eric the elder
May 28, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
Jason Heyward is 18 years old and won’t be coming up this year or next. In fact, a lot would have to go right for him to make an appearance in 2010 with the big club.
Wasn’t Andruw 19 when he was brought up? No need to stomp on me if I’m wrong - - just what I think I remember.
By Carroll Rogers
May 28, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
quack, quack, was that you on a perch outside my hotel room at 5 a.m. this morning, waking me up with your bird squealing? no? …..there were two fat little gulls out there, driving me bizonks.
good point on hall, florida brave.
By Efrim
May 28, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this
FloridaBrave
Thanks for the update on Gorkys. Hopefully he can pick up right where he left off. I believe he was sporting a 940 OPS with 5 doubles, 5 triples and 2 home runs. Pretty impressive. While on the subject of Myrtle Beach, Brandon Hicks struck out 5 times last night. It will be interesting to see if he can succeed in the upper levels with his approach. He has put up some great numbers throughout Single A. Also, Tyler Flowers seems to be struggling against right handed pitching. His home/road splits really show how tough it is to hit with power at Myrtle Beach. He has something like a 850 OPS on the road, but a 650 OPS at home.
By N8
May 28, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this
JCFROMUT
“Xavier Nady needs to be aquired for…”
I was thinking the exact same thing over the weekend. He’s pretty cheap though, so I’m not sure the Pirates would be looking to move him.
I’ve always like the way that dude plays, plus he wouldn’t be able to kill us anymore, right?
By Overlord
May 28, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this
Im not sure why people keep saying Cox is a great manager. Its simple, ANY MANAGER THAT HAS A RECORD LIKE 0-15 IN 1 RUN GAMES, IS CLEARLY BEING OUTMANAGED. It cant be teams fault. He is just not making the right moves.
By Efrim
May 28, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this
Eric the Elder
May have already said this, but the blog isn’t running right for me. Andruw was promoted as a 19 year old, but I am not sure that you want to do that very often. It’s probably better for his development process that he stays in the minors until 2010.
By d-rock in Scotland
May 28, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this
I wonder how long it will be before Schafer gets the call up. He’s set to get back in action on Saturday after serving his suspension. Wren seemed all about him in Spring Training, wonder if the HGH suspension has dampened that. Seems pretty odd he hasn’t talked about it. I wonder if he can talk about it after the suspension?
At any rate, if Diaz and Kotsay don’t get back to 100% soon, wonder if he will be part of the mix.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 28, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
RE: Tex —
FWIW, over his last 10 games, he’s been hitless three times and had one hit in two games. No walks drawn in those five games and only one run scored.
The other five times, he was Ted Williams — either multihit and/or multiwalk games. And he scored six runs in those five games.
So it’s feast-or-famine right now. If he’s on, he and Chipper can carry the team. If he’s not, the Braves need somebody else to step up.
Question is, how do you know which Tex will show up when the lineup card is filled out?
As for Frenchy … talk about feast-or-famine. Taking out his “68 Comeback Special” vs. the Mets (3-for-4 w/4 RBI), in the other nine games, he’s 4-for-33 with 3 RBI, one walk and 12 Ks. Ouch.
By SeattleBravesFan
May 28, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this
This has pretty much already been said and Carroll points it out well in her recent post. But managers can’t manage with a myopic viewpoint or mindset. They can’t make decisions such as pulling a starter only based on what is happening at that exact moment. Huddy is the Braves only true proven horse at this point in the rotation. JJ is working up to it, but still to young and Glavine isn’t a 7 & 8 inning horse anymore. If anyone can be counted on to limit the BP’s innings for a game, if he is going well, that guy is Huddy. Based on the recent BP’s innings in the last week, it makes sense for Bobby to roll the dice and see if Huddy can make it through. Because coming up in the next few games he will be running starters out there that he will be hoping to make 5 innings of good pitching, thus taxing the BP again. It didn’t work out last night, but it’s a 162 game season and from what I can see, the team is doing pretty darn good so far and Bobby’s decisions have worked out more than not so far considering the injury depletion that has gone on with the team this early in the season.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
May 28, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
I think this “road quandary” is in the Braves head. If they want to win a very winnable division they better get over their neuroticism about playing on the road. For whatever reason this team has that “it” factor at home but looked completely lost on the road.
If Kotsay goes on the DL, who gets called up? Anderson? Borchard? Lillibridge? Schaefer? Heyward? I’m kidding about the last two.
By Shamus Thacker
May 28, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
Dayum, nice heads-up DOB. Thanks!
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
May 28, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
ncscoot
YEAH!! Caveman like to hit ball hard!!! Swing bat fast !! Make ball turn into little dot in sky!!
Cavegirls like the long ball!!!
I don’t pay attention to McCanns stance too much, but I do know that when I was hitting off my back foot it was causing in uppercut swing and also open up too fast. Flying open way too much. Staying balanced is the key to a good stance and approach to hitting. Right now McCann is raking at the plate so whatever he is doing different is obviously working.
By Big Easy
May 28, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
ncscoots, yes, I know what you mean. He keeps his weight back (the tell-tale sign is that he only has his front toe resting on the dirt when waiting on the pitch), but he is indeed more balanced this year. Just a great, professional hitter.
~E~
By Efrim
May 28, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
I think the Braves might have to go outside of the organization for a corner OF bat. Brandon Jones, Brent Lillibridge(SS), and Josh Anderson have all struggled at Triple A.
Overlord
Did you watch last night’s game? Not sure how that is BC’s fault. The offense scored 2 runs man. The game should of never been that close, that late in the game. The offense, as a whole, had a lot of bad at bats. Ohman or Ring could of been brought in to face Branyan, I’ll agree with that, but the offense wasn’t there on the road again.
By N8
May 28, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this
Efrim
Agree with your 10:06 about Frenchy needing to step up as well.
But I’ve said it 100 times, and I’ll say it again. He’s making 450K this season, and Tex is making 12.5 Million.
One guy is in the beginning stages of his career and learning to BECOME a player like Tex. The other is being PAID HUGE DOLLARS to carry this team on his back.
Until Tex is tearing it up, and we are STILL losing close games, I’m not gonna rag on Jeff for anything other than his impatience and unwillingness to lay off those low and away pitches.
I don’t think that ANYBODY can argue that if Tex was carrying his weight, the season would be considerably different to this point.
Things very well could (and probably will) change soon enough. Even I can see that we are close enough, that when Tex does heat up, we will make our move.
But everyday, another game passes with people saying “it’s early”.
It’s NOT early anymore. Time to step up Tex.
Lew
My favorite comment from the Brew Crew announcers was that “Blanco has been getting the majority of the playing time in CF this year”.
Very informed indeed.
By eric the elder
May 28, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
The gargantuan business of baseball, in general, and the business-like approach of the Braves, in particular, tends to relegate fans to the same status as Microsoft customers.
To what are we fans entitled? Little to nothing. Odd, given that baseball exists and players are obscenely wealthy only because there are fans.
What we ought to expect is passion in the ways the games are played. With the possible exception of Hudson and Yunel (when he’s not pouting), this Braves team, as in teams past, lacks anything close to passion.
A team that is 58 games out of first can be forgiven for going through the motions. But the Braves are contenders. One would hardly know by watching them.
Except for the most ardent among us, the Braves are verging on committing the mortal sin: boring us to death.
By DAP
May 28, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this
eric the elder your right, andruw was 19 when he came up in 1996, but he spent three years in the minors. heyward hasnt finished one year in the minors yet.
yes, tex has been a dissapointment, and i think the loss last night is mostly the offense’s fault, although almost every game, win or loss, is contributed to by every facet of the team. the pitching wasnt perfect…why should we have expected the hitting to be? either way, i still blame the offense.
By DAP
May 28, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
eric the elder your right, andruw was 19 when he came up in 1996, but he spent three years in the minors. heyward hasnt finished one year in the minors yet.
yes, tex has been a dissapointment, and i think the loss last night is mostly the offense’s fault, although almost every game, win or loss, is contributed to by every facet of the team. the pitching wasnt perfect…why should we have expected the hitting to be? either way, i still blame the offense.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 28, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
R(CITB),
My guess is either Anderson or maybe Brandon Jones (who is starting to hit better) gets the call. Probably Anderson because he could play CF every day, leaving Infante available as the super utility guy.
If Esco continues to scuffle in the leadoff spot it might be time to move Blanco there and hit Yunel second.
By Efrim
May 28, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
BravesfaninRockies
Take out Frenchy’s 2 HR game against the Nats and his 3 for 4 game against the Mets last week and the will reveal even scarier numbers. 2 bombs in 49 games. Although I am sure you can be selective like that with many hitters in the majors.
By FloridaBrave
May 28, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
Like I mentioned before to Carroll, if we brought in Ohman/Ring to face Branyan, Milwaukee simply would have pinch hit Bill Hall there who is batting over .400 vs. lefties.
By JCFROMUT
May 28, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
N8: Would you give Lilibridge back to Pittsburgh for Nady?
By DAP
May 28, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this
also, looking at the path andruw took, he spent a full year in single A (where heyward is now) and then started ‘96 in A+ ball, and worked his way throught the entire minor leagues to eventually make his debut. so, if heyward progresses the same way andruw did (who knows if he will, everyone is different) then maybe we will see him in the majors at the end of 2009. nobody knows what will happen, but there is precedence for it. i would be he will stay at rome all this year, though.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 28, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
Efrim (12:04),
Could be. Wish I had time to do the math now but don’t. Still, I’d be really surprised if too many regulars who are supposed to be run producers are as erratic as JF has been this season.
Also, I do wonder how much the cold weather has affected these guys. As mentioned before, the Brewers haven’t opened the roof yet and it’s almost June. It was snowing in Denver when the Braves were here in April. Maybe when the weather heats up across the country the bats will too.
By KC
May 28, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
Random: Well as we saw early this season… as long as Smoltzy is able to pitch, he hasn’t lost a thing. He’s still nasty.
Between going 3/4 side-arm, and pitching out of the bullpen… I think there’s a great deal of hope that he can really help this team in relief.
As for Soraino, I’m not going to lie and say I’m 100% confident in his elbow. However, repeated tests have shown no structural problems there. So I am hopeful he can make a successful return.
Then there’s Gonzalez.
We should expect some normal setbacks on his road back. But with the kind of depth it looks like this pen will have aside from Gonzo (Smoltz, Soriano, Acosta, Boyer, Ohman)… the Braves won’t need to ask more of Gonzalez than he can reasonably be expected to give.
If we could just get TWO of those three going, the Braves would likely have the best pen in the league.
So yes, I am buying stock in this bullpen. You’re apparently selling, so maybe we can do business.
By DAP
May 28, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
efrim I think the Braves might have to go outside of the organization for a corner OF bat.
brian giles is available. it would be nice to have jason bay right now. a good, middle of the order right handed bat. nady would also be great. its to bad that giles is probably the only realistic option out of these.
By Efrim
May 28, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
N8
Tex has been a dissapointment, and he usually gets better as the season goes along, but that isn’t the case this year as posted a 290/355/490 in April and a 260/380/364 in May. But I am not really worried about a career 285/369/531 hitter. Will he have that type of year this year? Maybe not. Not insane to think he will have a below average year. But my guess is that he will be much better than 265/350/418(current numbers) when the season ends. Maybe 280/375/480?
By Shaun
May 28, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this
We cann sit here and point fingers all day. I think it was better to stick with Timmy than to put in someone like Boyer, who might have let it get out of hand. Yeah, I don’t like to see a guy throw 120 pitches, either. But he gave them a chance to win. This loss is on the offense—not Timmy or Bobby. We can’t be sure that someone in the ‘pen wouldn’t have given up that run—or even more—in the eighth.
McFann, oh, I wouldn’t question the move as a result of the final score. I question it because I don’t think it’s a great idea generally to have a pitcher throw 120 pitches.
I’d take my chances with Boyer. Geez, when is this guy going to get some respect on the blog? The guy has struck out nearly a batter an inning this season and has only walked 6 hitters.
By MacDaddy McDonald
May 28, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this
Maybe the Brewers just happen to get lucky and win the game…or maybe Cox blew it…or maybe it was Tex’s dam fault … or maybe it was Hudson’s fault for not requesting to be taken out of the game…..or maybe it was one of the Brewer’s running sausage’s fault. Seemed like it was nothing but downhill for the Braves after they had their race around the infield and the Italian sausage won. Oh well I will just try to Maybe the Brewers just happen to get lucky and win the game…or maybe Cox blew it…or maybe it was Tex’s dam fault … or maybe it was Hudson’s fault not requesting to be taken out of the game…..or maybe it was one of the Brewer’s sausage’s fault. Seemed like it was nothing but downhill for the Braves after they had their sausage race around the infield and the Italian sausage won. Oh well I think I will concentrate on the upcoming game.
By N8
May 28, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this
Efrim
“85 runs scored on the road”
“93 runs given up on the road”
“6-17 record?”
“That can’t be right. Can someone confirm?”
“Seems like we are terribly unlucky on the road and a little lucky at home.”
Don’t let the TOTALS on the road fool you into believing we’ve been unlucky based on the record and run differential.
There have been 6 “blow out” games on the road. By blowout, I mean games that had a margin of 4 runs or more.
In those 6 games, we’ve won 3 of them (10-2, 8-0, 8-1), and we’ve lost 3 of them (6-12, 0-4, 0-5). To some extent, those even out. Though in the wins, the margin was greater.
In those 6 games, we’ve scored 32, the opponent 24.
Which means in the other 17 games (3-14 record), we’ve scored 53 runs and the opponents 69.
While not a HUGE jump in run differential, it is a jump, none the less. Is 16 runs “enough” to justify losing 14 of 17 games? I’m not sure?
But it clarifies it a bit more than having a run differential of 8 runs for the 11 games under .500 that we are on the road, doesn’t it?
Maybe some bad luck in a few of those games, can explain it. But the bottom line, is that if you take out the 26 runs we’ve scored in our BLOWOUT wins on the road, we are scoring 2.95 per game on the road.
In other words…..not enough.
By DAP
May 28, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
shaun it might not have been said out of disrespect to boyer. he had thrown 2 innings the previous day. so had acosta. the brewers hit lefties well, so ohman and ring probably werent great options. that left bennett, stockman, and resop.
bobby probably had more confidence in hudson, even after thwoing 100 pitches than those guys, and i dont really blame him. hudson didnt really struggle at the end as much as it looked like. he got a bunch of ground balls that found holes.
By Coach Smith
May 28, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this
DAP
Brian Giles isn’t a bad option BUT he doesn’t have POWER anymore…
What do you think about my earlier suggestion of ADAM DUNN or XAVIER NADY
DUNN would strictly be a “rent-a-player” but maybe you could get BRONSON ARROYO along with him
Wouldn’t mind a getting one of these packages:
From Pirates: NADY and SNELL (don’t know if they’ll give Snell up)
From REDS: DUNN and ARROYO (would rather have HARANG but I digress)
From PADRES: MADDUX and GILES (Giles doesn’t have the power we need but he takes care of leadoff which lets Escobar and KJ move to more comfortable spots)
What do you all think?
By McFann
May 28, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this
Just a great, professional hitter. Big E
Totally! Yeah, whatever he changed has definitely paid off.
Shaun—
I don’t like to see guys throw 120 pitches either.
I like Boyer. I was really just using him as an example because he was the first guy I thought of. One guy I would’ve liked to see instead of Timmy would be Campillo, but he was made a stater.
By N8
May 28, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
shaun
“Geez, when is this guy going to get some respect on the blog?”
Have to agree with you. He’s been pretty stellar for about a month now.
Since allowing 4 runs on April 29th, he has made 13 appearances, pitching 14.2 innings, allowing 3 ER (1.84 ERA), allowing 12 hits & 2 walks (0.95 whip), and 11 K’s.
About time to recognize that he’s doing just fine out there.
My only complaint is that he tends to hang that beautiful 12/6 curveball every now and then, which some elite hitters might take advantage of.
But with the “big-3” coming back (at some point), the odds of Boyer facing an elite hitter with the game on the line in the last couple of innings, is minimal.
By Shaun
May 28, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
eric the elder, do you really think a team that has allowed the fewest runs and has the best OPS+ in the league could not be playing with passion? How could they possibly do that without passion?
As far as baseball in general, what gives you any clue that baseball players lack passion? I just don’t see it. Yes, I realize it’s a game and most of us would love to have their jobs but they do give up virtually their lives for 8-9 months out of the year. Many of them that I’ve heard about pay strict attention to what they put in and what they do to their bodies. Don’t want to make it sound overly heroic or their more moral or have better character than other people, but I don’t know if you could say they lack passion. I’m guessing it’s pretty near impossible to reach the majors without passion for the game. Whatever other character flaws that players may have (and I’m sure there’s are no different than many other young men) I’d guess a lack of passion is not one of them.
As an aside, has anyone noticed that the Braves have the best OPS+ in the NL? Though they’re in the middle of the pack in scoring, other numbers indicate they are one of if not the best offensive club in the league. That means they probably won’t remain in the middle of the pack in scoring for long.
By eric the elder
May 28, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
As the trading season nears, rumors and unreality abound. That’s okay, it’s part of the fun.
“Blowing up” this team is silly and not to be taken seriously. “Blowing up” the farm for rental players is another matter, and it’s scary to contemplate.
I try not to stir up the denizens, but I’m not averse to considering getting a front line pitcher - - for Francoeur.
Chipper has good baseball sense, so when he says, “Lose an Andruw, gain an Andruw,” I listen.
Francoeur reminds me of many movie starlets who got too much too fast. There he was on the SI cover, the “golden boy,” young girls fainting, the whole schtick. But the painful reality is that the league has figured him out, and he hasn’t figured out the league.
Will he? I’m skeptical. Honestly, Jeff doesn’t strike me as a very bright guy (again, think Andruw). As long as he’s a Brave, I’ll pull for him, while retaining the right to point out his dreadful mechanics. If he leaves, I’ll wish him well.
The Braves signed McCann long term, but not Jeff, apparently because he thinks too much of himself. Would anyone trade Francoeur for Nady straight up or for a good established pitcher? It might be worth a thought before pummeling me.
By N8
May 28, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
Efrim
I’m not arguing that Tex’s numbers will be that far off of what you suggest.
I’m not even arguing that he might bust out and put this team on his back for a month.
I get that his past says he’s always “cold” at the beginning of the year.
But the bottom line is that he’s been a disappointment so far. Nothing less, nothing more than that.
I was going to post some numbers last night showing how much more consistent chipper has been in the RBI department this year (as in RBI in more games, rather than multiple RBI in fewer games).
But was actually surprised to find that Chippers 35 RBI have come in 21 games (47 games played), and Tex’s 31 RBI have come in 20 games.
So, as AMAZINGLY CONSISTENT as chipper has been in the hitting department this year, Tex has been as consistent as Chipper has been when it comes to RBI.
Now, granted, just like Andruw last year, Tex appears to have failed more than succeed, because Chipper is ALWAYS on base, so that RBI total, SHOULD be higher than it is for Tex.
Especially when you consider that Chipper’s RBI total would be higher had he not had KJ (and his .263 average and .328 OBP) for 29 games in the lead-off spot.
Which is why RBI are relative to who is ahead of you in the lineup.
Bottom line, Chipper has more RBI than Tex and has had less runners to knock in.
But the “end results” are similar in their totals.
Sometimes you gotta dig deeper than just looking at the totals, which I know you do. I was just saying “in general”.
By Shaun
May 28, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this
N8, first of all I wouldn’t call 4-0 a “blowout.”
Second, why ignore the runs in blowouts? That’s just silly. The fact that they’ve scored that many runs is pretty indicative of how good the offense is. Why ignore those and then say the Braves can’t score? Kind of silly if you ask me.
Hey, try taking away the runs any team scores in their blowout wins and see how their offense looks. I’m sure the 1927 Yankees offense doesn’t look so hot when you take away all their runs in blowouts. What exactly does that prove?
And I think Efrim was more referring to the 0-10 in road one-run games because those are the games where unluckiness is going to rear it’s ugly head.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 28, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith,
Don’t know who you’re giving up to get the guys you asked about. Giles and Maddux might be the most available because of age and salary issues.
Nady and Snell would likely attract other bidders, making the price steeper.
Dunn’s Ks would drive some people on the blog nuts but he can seriously mash the ball. Don’t know what Arroyo’s worth, however.
Again, who are you giving up for who you are getting? Cost does matter.
By Murphy
May 28, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this
N8, Completely agree on Tex. As I was watching Braves Live last night, I was struck by how they and the play-by-play guys have gotten on the other guys when they struggle, but rarely is anyone getting on Tex except to say it is early. Is everyone scared if we dont make him feel welcome that he will sign with NY or Baltimore or some other team throwing him money? I dont know, but I do know that when he struts his chest out and runs to first base after grounding into another DP, I want to throw things at his expressionless mug. Geez….
By Carroll Rogers
May 28, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this
shaun, bobby said boyer wasn’t available last night, just fyi.
new blog should be up shortly…
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
May 28, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith, of those options you provided Maddux and Giles is the most realistic but I don’t know if that deal is that realistic. Giles will be owed $9 mil next season. That is a lot of payroll taken up for one guy like Giles. Honestly, I don’t want Adam Dunn. I’m just not impressed with him and Arroyo, while I love the guy, is not worth giving up what would have to be given up to get him.
No way the Pirates are trading Snell. They would entertain Nady and Zach Duke, however. I think Duke would be a solid pickup but the Pirates would likely demand Lillibridge, Schaefer or Hernandez and Charlie Morton. To me that is not worth it.
Now, I think the Braves could approach the Giants for Matt Cain and Randy Winn. Possibly offer Lillibridge and Chuck James but not sure the Giants would see that as enough.
One option nobody has really discussed is Raul Ibanez from the Mariners. The Mariners are already done in the AL West. Perhaps, acquire Ibanez and Jarrod Washburn. Don’t know who the Braves could offer though. Also, I still say the Braves should make a hard push for Juan Rivera or Reggie Wilits.
By N8
May 28, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this
Shaun
I have a question for you, regarding us leading the league in OPS, yet being in the “middle of the pack” in runs scored.
Does overall team “speed” have anything to do with this? By that, I mean are we scoring from 1B on doubles less than teams with above average speed? Along with having runners being “held up” at 3B from 2B on hard hit singles, which seems to be happening more often this year.
Escobar has decent speed, Kotsay has decent speed, but they might not risk him being involved with a play at the plate. Chipper has decent speed for a 36 year old, but with the groin injury, he’s been slowed. Tex is NOT fast. McCann is NOT fast. Francoeur has decent speed. Diaz is NOT fast, though Blanco is.
It just seems to me, like we have a station to station ball club. Which is fine when you have a lineup filled with HR hitters. But our 48 HR’s rank 16th in baseball, and if you take out Chipper and McCann, the rest of the team has 27 HR in 52 games. Yikes.
So it appears to me that we are built to mash, yet aren’t mashing yet. Until the HR’s come more frequently, with this lack of overall team speed, I’m not so sure that the runs will come that much more often.
Then again, maybe it’s simply the timing of the hitting. If we get a 2 out double, that will help our over-all OPS, right? We HAVE had an awful lot of 2 out hits (without runners on base) this year.
I’m pretty sure you’ll give me your thoughts on it.
By ncgary
May 28, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
francouer and james for marcum?
By DAP
May 28, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
coach smith giles does ok in the power dept, hits alot of doubles and has an .830 OPS. thats not as good as nady or dunn this year, but im not sure either one of those guys is a realistic option for us.
From Pirates: NADY and SNELL (don’t know if they’ll give Snell up)
if i could have any package out of these three, it would be this one, but this is the least likely to actually happen. snell is a pretty good pitcher, but not that great, but these are both player the pirates have under control for awhile. they would have to get some great pieces in return. id say there is no chance of a trade like this.
From REDS: DUNN and ARROYO (would rather have HARANG but I digress)
arroyo is a mystery. he just doesnt get results. dunn is going to be a very high priced free agent, strikes out a ton and doesnt play good defense. these guys are probably available, but i dont think i would want them.
From PADRES: MADDUX and GILES (Giles doesn’t have the power we need but he takes care of leadoff which lets Escobar and KJ move to more comfortable spots)
actually, id bat giles 2nd, hes a contact guy. this seems to be the most realistic option for the braves, but not as good as the pirates package. i would do this for the right price, since it fills holes, even though not perfectly.
who knows what will happen? here’s what we know. we need a starter, and probably an outfielder as well. im gonna bet we will dip into our minor leagues quite a bit pretty soon.
By JCFROMUT
May 28, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this
ERIC THE ELDER: yes i would trade Jeff, not straight up for Nady, but for Nady and either Nate Snell or Tom Gorzalany.
By eric the elder
May 28, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this
Shaun, I hardly ever disagree with you, and I don’t now. I just think you and I see “passion” in different ways. ‘Nuff said.
By Goodoleboy58
May 28, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this
I’m listening to the Texas/Rays game on MLB.com and they are ragging on Salty’s defensive ability. BJ Upton just stole 2nd and that makes him 1-14 on throwing out runners this year. Called him a DH that happens to play catcher. Not very good reviews so far for him. Heck I’d take him back to play 1B if Tex walks.
By Lee in S. GA
May 28, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this
I try not to stir up the denizens, but I’m not averse to considering getting a front line pitcher - - for Francoeur.
Eric the Elder -
I’m with you on this one. I think he can be the trade bait to draw one. As time goes on K.J. is slowly starting to prove to be a better option for long a term signing than Frenchy. Apparently other teams realize this because I have read on this blog several interest for Johnson from time to time but have yet to se any mention about Frenchy. Do the Braves consider him untouchable. I hardly think so.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 28, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this
eric the elder,
Not going to pummel you. Nady for JF? Not crazy, but it would take other lesser pieces to make the deal work. For one thing, I think Nady’s playing over his head this season and Frenchy is underperforming slightly.
In retrospect, the decision to lock up Heap and not JF will be one of Schuerholz’s last great moves.
JF is still young, yes, but he’s in his fourth big league season and he’s still wildly undisciplined. He might figure it out, but don’t count on it.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
May 28, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this
Eric, no way in hell would I trade Frenchy for Nady. Now, Frenchy, Lillibridge, and Charlie Morton for Matt Holliday and Aaron Cooke I would listen to? Won’t happen but its nice to dream. Perhaps, Frenchy and Lillibridge to the Royals for Greinke, Tehren, and Gaithright? Frenchy to the Rays for one of their stud young pitchers and Carlos Pena? Frenchy and Lillibridge to the Pirates for Jason Bay and either Snell or Maholm/ Those are all offers I would listen to. None of them will never happen because Francoeur isn’t going anywhere.
By blazerpunter
May 28, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this
New Blog is up…………….
By DAP
May 28, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this
eric the elder would i trade jeff straight up for nady? heck no. when nady was 24, he had hit 9 HR, with a .267 AVG and a .711 OPS
jeff is in his 24th year, has 67 HR, has hit .277 with a .775 OPS.
jeff will prove to be a better player than nady.
By N8
May 28, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this
Shaun
“N8, first of all I wouldn’t call 4-0 a “blowout.””
I wouldn’t either, but I was trying to show that in a couple of the losses, the OTHER team scored runs as well, adding to the differential.
“Second, why ignore the runs in blowouts? That’s just silly. The fact that they’ve scored that many runs is pretty indicative of how good the offense is.”
I agree and disagree with you. While “taking out” certain games, can help make any point one is trying to make, you CAN’T take those games away. They happened.
However, that being said, you are ALWAYS talking about “sample size”, right?
Well, we’ve played 23 road games so far (6-17). In those 23 road games, we’ve scored 85 total runs (3.69 per game). In our 3 blowout wins (10-2, 8-0, 8-1), we’ve scored 26 of those runs. That leaves our total in the other 23 games (to me, a MUCH BIGGER “sample size” of what we’re “capable” of on the road), to 59 games, thus the 2.95 runs per game average.
Isn’t it fair to assume that maybe in those blowout wins we were facing weaker pitching? Kind of like when teams get to face Chuck this year?
As far as luck? Why does “bad luck” only have to occur in close games?
One could argue that in an 11-1 loss, there had to be an inning or two, where luck wasn’t on the losing team’s side, (errors - bad hops - bad calls - bloop hits, a HR going off the glove of a LF, etc….)
Anyhow. Like I said before, I’ll take the 23 games that haven’t gone so well on the road as a bigger sample size than the 3 games we’ve ripped it up.
After all, Blanco hit a pretty long HR last night? So, wouldn’t that mean that he’s “capable” of hitting a bunch of HR’s? My guess, is that being a stat guy, you’ll go with the bigger sample size that says he’s NOT gonna be a big HR threat anytime soon, right?
By Section 412
May 28, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this
N8 - your 12:56 is dead on. I go to almost all the home games and the lack of team speed is an issue without bases-clearing home runs. I’m sure there are stats that will prove or disprove this, but I’m too busy to look them up. What I can say, though, is that sometimes the stats don’t tell the same story that ACTUALLY WATCHING THE GAMES does.
When you watch this team enough, especially in person where you often can see a broader spectrum of the field than you can on TV, the lack of speed screams out. This manifests itself in failure to take 3rd, failure to score from 2nd on hits, etc., as you state. We often get a lot of hits for comparatively few runs.
Don’t get me wrong, I love this team, and I agree with the Mark Bradley column the other day (that we might be in for a great season), but I do agree that some speed would be a nice addition as we plow toward the playoffs.
Good point.
By N8
May 28, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
*None of them will never happen because Francoeur isn’t going anywhere”
Nobody thought David Justice was going anywhere either.
Not saying it’s gonna happen. Who really knows, other than Wren?
By Shaun
May 28, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this
N8, don’t know about team speed as a factor. It’s an interesting thought but my guess is team speed doesn’t affect things that much.
I’m guessing most of it has to do with situational hitting. And while I think there is a little something to situational hitting, for the most part, I think good hitters can hit in any situation. It’s just a matter of time before the Braves start hitting in certain situations so that their runs match their on-base and slugging abilities.
By Random
May 28, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
eric the elder: “Would anyone trade Francoeur for Nady straight up or for a good established pitcher?”
I think I would, but not for Nady or any other outfielder or position player — I think we’re covered there for the time being.
But for an Ace? — I’m salivating already at who all we might get for a Francoeur-anchored package.
Lincecum? Sabathia? Seattle’s Hernandez? Harang(jj)? Matt Cain? Jake Peavy?!?
Or are we (am I) overestimating Francoeur’s trade value?
By Shaun
May 28, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
N8, I agree that the Braves haven’t scored enough on the road. I just don’t think you needed to go around the world to bring up that point. Just look at their road runs scored (last in the league).
As far as luck? Why does “bad luck” only have to occur in close games?
Oh, it does not. Bad luck, good luck, all of it occurs in every game. The thing is in close games luck as opposed to skill is going to affect things more. Luck isn’t likely to matter if a team is good enough to get a ton of baserunners and hits and in turn score lots of runs and good enough to limit the other team to a few baserunners and maybe a run or two. Doesn’t matter how unlucky the good team is, they are so good that they overcome it in games in which they play well.
Does this mean luck is the only reason a team losses close games? Of course not. But in close games we are less likely to discover a whole lot about a team’s true skills.
By Shaun
May 28, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
Section 412, pretty hard to measure team speed and how it correlates to scoring unless you look at steals. And there really is no correlation between steals and run scoring (some teams that steal a lot, score a lot and some don’t).
So speed on the base paths may not translate into a lot of steals but I would assume that if a team does have speed, they would use it at least some to steal bases.
By Coach Smith
May 28, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
eric the elder
I think Chipper made the “Lose and ANdruw gain an Andruw” comment as a compliment!
I know AJ was aggravating by his stubborness and strike outs BUT…he put up Hall of Fame numbers for the Braves for over a Decade…
Francoeur should consider himself lucky to win 10 GGs and hit Nearly 400 HRs in his career..much less in 10-11 years
DAP
XAVIER NADY is a Free Agent at the end of the year….makes him more realistic as a trade
ADAM DUNN is also a free agent..and the REDS can’t let him just walk and get nothing
I know some people may get ANGRY if he comes because of his strike outs BUT this year he is Hitting .266 with 14 HR, and 36 RBI and despite the low BA he has a .415 OBP
He would instantly be the BRAVES HR and RBI leader…we have enough 8-15 HR a year outfileders …WE need someone with some BONAFIDE POWER..let him hit 6 in the order and watch his RBIs pile up….
He usually K’s, hits a HR, or WALKS…either way at least he’d see some pitches and work a count!
By the way…unless the Braves got something like LINCECUM and ROWAND and got the Giants to eat part of Rowand’s salary…THEY WILL NEVER TRADE FRENCHY…and that deal ain’t gonna happen
By OLD-BRAVE
May 28, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
been reading all of the comment’s with a lot of intrest,and i would just like for carrol or d.o.b. or any of the fans to explain to me why everyone want’s to put back togeather the pitching staff from’95, remember who they were, smoltz, glavine, maddox.as good as they were in their prime they were only able to win one championship in 14 years,so now when they are in their golden years,and are just hanging on by their past glory what in the world would the braves want to trade any young player for maddox for. i do’nt know maybe two dozen bat’s.as afar as jeff is concerned he has never said it was his life long dream to play for the braves and bobby cox,yes he will get his money maybe not from the braves but some trillionaire somewhere,just look at hampton, he got his from a couple of them, and laughed all the way to the bank.