AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > May > 29 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USRoof is open, and so’s this blog
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Beauty of baseball? There’s always another day, another game, and this time it came in half a day, or feels like it from the heavy eyelids I’m looking out from behind. But I’m breathing some fresh air here, with the roof open at Miller Park for a game set to start shortly.
This will be the first game the Brewers have played at home all year with the roof open, maybe it’s just what the Braves need to blow the lid off this road ridiculousness. Oh my, that was corny. Sorry. Must need some coffee.
Better now. Just got back from the clubhouse, where Will Ohman modeled several new looks for the skipper. First it was road grays with the all-blue cap. Then it was the blue jersey with the traditional red and blue cap. Ultimately, the guys chose to go with grays with blue cap, which got a cheer and a “yeah, fill it up” from Francoeur and a “I like it” from Glavine.
So see, they’re trying. Gotta mix it up.
Speaking of mixing it up, Bobby Cox has Greg Norton in the lineup in left field, batting fifth, trying to get something going.
“He’s known as a hitter, so we’re trying to get a little more lumber in the lineup,” Cox said. “Infante last night made two great catches. Hate to take out the defense. But we feel comfortable with it, gives us another pretty heavy bat.”
Infante has his right hamstring wrapped up with an ice pack last night but said he was OK, and Bobby said Infante told him the same thing.
OH WAIT: I interrupt this blog for an update on Matt Diaz (which you might also see in a burst): An MRI confirmed Thursday that Braves outfielder Matt Diaz has a partial tear in the posterior cruciate ligament of his left knee and he is out four to six weeks.
Surgery is not required. Doctors think it’s a matter of rest and rehabilitation. They fitted Diaz for a brace.
Diaz injured his knee Tuesday night, crashing into an outfield wall knee-first trying to catch a Prince Fielder foul ball. Diaz returned to Atlanta Wednesday, when he was placed on the disabled list, and had the MRI on Thursday.
Diaz had been struggling at the plate lately, but broke an 0-for-12 stretch Tuesday with a single. He had been counted on as a platoon player in left field. The Braves played Omar Infante in left field Wednesday and Greg Norton is in the lineup today.
Mark Kotsay is still out with back stiffness, so the other half of the platoon in left field - Gregor Blanco - has been playing center.
Anyway, where was I? Norton broke in as a left fielder in 2001, playing at Coors Field in Colorado, so this is not nearly that big an adventure for him.
Last year he played some right field for the Rays, and here’s his version of how it went. “I told (third base coach) Tom Foley, I said ‘I wasn’t too bad out there, Foley.’ He’s like ‘Yeah that’s because you hit .296 with 17 (homers) but if you’re not hitting, you’re not a good outfielder.’ So that put it in perspective for me.”
Norton who is 0-for-14 coming into the game since going 3-for-4, got some tapes sent from Seattle for Terry Pendleton to look at and get more familiar with his swing. Norton was looking more comfortable last night when he lined out hard to end the game.
This will be Norton’s second start in left field for the Braves, after Monday’s game against Arizona. In seriousness, this is what the natural infielder said about playing there:
“I wish I was better out there,” Norton said. “I wish I had the skills as far as running that I used to have, the arm strength, so it’s something for me personally, I have to try to get some work in bp, work on my angles. Because I can’t really afford to take a misstep and have the makeup speed as some other guys. It’s a challenge. I like challenges. On the other side, it’s not like it’s foreign. It’s not like I haven’t been out there.”
TALK ABOUT ROAD WOES: Norton also had some pretty great stuff this morning, talking about the road woes he’s been a part of. Makes this 6-18 thing for the Braves seem sort of normal I suppose.
First there were the three seasons he played in Colorado, where everybody knows they played better at home than on the road. But he trumped that when telling us about playing on a Tampa team two years ago that won only three of its final 36 road games after July 1.
“In Colorado, it got to the point where it was something players really didn’t think about, but they had sports psychologists coming in and having meetings about why we played better at home than on the road,” Norton said. “As a player, when we go out there, we’re not thinking about playing better at home than on the road, but the more people kept bringing up, then it’s going to start seeping in a little bit and you’ll start questioning why.”
“In Tampa in 2006, I think we set the all-time worst record in the road in baseball history. That was rough. So yeah, I’d say more than anybody in here, I’ve been through this quite a bit.”
He said this feels different.
“This is a better team. In Colorado we had some good players but you’re fourth or five in the division. Tampa in the AL East, we lost 101, then last year 90 some odd losses, so I think it’s a different team. I don’t think anybody is really worried about it. We’re figuring it’s going to turn around. It can’t go like this for the entire season. Keep going out and playing hard and let the chips fall where they may.”
THANK YOU, CHIPPER: Look, you gotta love Chipper for his honesty, and the fact that he’s willing to say what’s on his mind, and surely a lot of other people’s too, regardless of how it might sound. I asked him this morning about the first All-Star voting totals that came out yesterday. Chipper is leading David Wright at third base 420,664 to 321,091.
And after giving me the politically correct answer, as we talked about it a little more and he said:
“Well, honestly it’s a shame that I’ve got to go out and hit .400 for two months to make an All-Star team,” Jones said. “It’s kind of depressing to me because I’ve had, to me, what I think are some pretty good first halves, what I think is a pretty good career, and I haven’t made an All-Star team since ‘01. And I gotta hit .400 for the first two months of the season to do it. But I’ll take it. Gotta make a splash to get people’s attention? Gotta make a splash.”
He’s trying to get voted in for the third time in his career, but Wright has been hogging the votes in recent years.
Oh, and here was the politically correct answer he gave first: “It’s flattering that a lot of people in Atlanta are taking it upon themselves to vote. I heard a radio station promoting people to get on-line and vote, which is good and flattering. It would be cool to go to this one, last one at old Yankee Stadium. I’m sure they’re going to put on a good show. We’ll see. Still got a long way to go.”
INSTANT REPLAY? Some folks were asking Bobby Cox yesterday what he thought about the possibility of using instant replay in baseball. Thought you’d be curious to hear what he had to say:
“Maybe to make the call on home runs, but not the other stuff. On bases and slides, you just can’t do it. It’s not fair to the umpires. No. 1, it takes time if you’re going to do bases and those types of plays, it would take all day to play…
“And how many can you do in one game, can you ask every play? Throw up a flag? Is that what you do? Baseball doesn’t need that.”
And he doesn’t even feel that strongly about having replay for just the homers, just maybe a way to improve the foul poles, so it’s easier for umpires to see contrasts and make the calls.
“The home run that’s not a home run that’s foul or fair, 99 out of 100 times they end up getting it right,” Cox said.
HOMER REDUX: I ended up asking Gregor Blanco about his first major league homer which he hit Tuesday and I liked what he had to say.
“I was kind of ready for it,” Blanco said. “I think I’m the kind of guy who can have a little power too, so some damage.”
Not that he’s going to break out and change his approach, but just the idea that he’s like “Yeah, I should do that.” He did get the ball, by the way. Had it back in his hotel room for safe keeping, not even in his locker.
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Comments
By ncgary
May 29, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this
bcs a baseball genius i tell ya
By N8
May 29, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this
1st?
By ncgary
May 29, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this
lol or wed all just have to cry over the braves luck lately
By Efrim
May 29, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this
That is really frustrating. Bases Loaded and Norton grounds into a double play. Closed doors meeting time right before Cincy. Because this team is not right mentall in these situations on the road.
By Del
May 29, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
What a GREAT start!!!
By ArkyTech
May 29, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
Glad we got rid of Brayan Pena so we could keep Norton. Who needs a switch-hitting career .300 minor league hitter who can play multiple positions when you got guys like Norton around????!!!!!
By supergrass
May 29, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
first?
cant believe i just did that….. lol
By Efrim
May 29, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this
N8
Re: your post to me in the last blog about Tex and Frenchy and the money Tex is getting compared to what Jeff is getting, I think it is something that us fans look at, but honestly man, Jeff is a major leaguer and he has to produce. He hasn’t through a third of the season. The 32 RBI’s are nice, but lets be real man, 711 OPS. Below average. Lets just keep the money aside and say both Tex and Frenchy better get their s** together fast. Not sure how long Chipper and Heap can carry this offense, their backs must be aching.
By Will
May 29, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this
Greg Norton batting 5th just proves how big of a clueless jackass Cox has become
By mr baseball
May 29, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
Once again, Chance the Manager provides indisputable evidence that his managerial IQ is in the low Forrest Gump range.
Is there any intelligent explanation why a journeyman like Greg Norton is batting 5th behind Chipper and Tex? With McCann & Kotsay out of the lineup, this would have been a good day to move Blanco up to the leadoff spot and put KJ in either the 5 or 6 hole ahead of/behind Francouer.
Does Chance try something a little different after 16 straight scoreless innings? Of course not. That’s not who he is. His idea of a change is to insert a career mediocrity in an 0-for-14 slump between Tex and Francouer. The result: a rally-killing GIDP.
Whatever positive attributes Cox possesses as a leader, he is a negative presence in the dugout when it comes time to making game-related strategic decisions.
Those who think I’m way off base, please examine the Braves’ wonderful record in 1-run games. Don’t think there’s a correlation? Think again.
By Braves20
May 29, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
Even with Diaz out, is it not time for the front office to admit that Norton is this year’s Craig Wilson?
And as many bloggers alluded to early in the year Mark Kotsay is a fine player when in the lineup. But that’s the rub - keeping him in the lineup.
By WORKER
May 29, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
PLEASE POST UPDATES FOR US WHO CANT STREAMLINE INTERNET AT WORK.
By N8
May 29, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
Carroll
While I rag on Bobby as much as anybody for his “decisions” (who am I to judge?), one thing that I do like about him is his quotes.
I do appreciate having him (along with Herm Edwards coaching my Chiefs) to give the occasional “head-scratcher” of a quote. Like the following, when you asked him about replay being used in MLB games:
“The home run that’s not a home run that’s foul or fair, 99 out of 100 times they end up getting it right,” Cox said.”
LOL! That’s a hoot. Because I’d be willing to bet that he would be out there ARGUING 100 out of 100 times. Am I right? Or am I right?
The all-time leader in ejections talking about things not being “fair” for the umpires and what not. Now THAT is funny.
He’s right, though. At first I was for it. But I’ve since changed my opinion. Not sure why. But the game has lasted this long without it, why change now.
Besides, what the hell would we all complain about it EVERY call was correct. GASP!!! Would that mean that the players would hold some accountability when things didn’t go well?
Hmmmmm. Maybe I’ll change my mind again.
By ncgary
May 29, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
clearly campillo will have to use the big ugly bat if he wants some runs to work with,
doubles anyone??
By Rahul
May 29, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
Efrim
In response to your question in the last blog, the Major league average for Pitches/PA is about 3.8, while the Braves have only seen about 3.66 Pitches/PA.
By TennesseePaul
May 29, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
Ultimately, the guys chose to go with grays with blue cap
Awesome. So they are wearing this uni today? Grey’s with the blue cap? I tossed this idea out after seeing the blues earlier this year. This is like the Cubs home and away cap change.
As for Chipper, it is a shame he hasn’t been to more All Star games but he must remember that for a good 3 years he was injured early in the season… that doesn’t really help.
By Lee in S. GA
May 29, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
Norton could be the 2nd coming of Craig Wilson.
By Johnny g
May 29, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
Can we focus on some positives here for a quick minute. Please raise your hand if you would have thought we would be playing this well with the following injuries/non performances from: Smoltz, Hampton, Gonzalez, Soriano, Tex (admit it, for the first two months, I hit better than him), Francoeur (ditto), a backup catcher named Corky Miller.
Positives: Soriano is back, Gonzalez WILL be back soon, Smoltz WILL be back soon. Tex is starting to hit (even if it’s just singles), Chipper is a God, McCann is taking the torch from Chipper, Yunel hasn’t been a fluke, JJJ is unreal, Hudson is a God, we’re getting strong performances out of the pen and Kelly looks comfortable out of the leadoff spot.
The season is long guys, and I’ve had my fair share of headaches with this team too. They are too damn good to not be in first. A strong and healthy second half awaits us!
Go Braves!
By Bowie
May 29, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
Good post Carroll Chipper is first class. Hope the fans get off their azz and vote. Bobby must pick players out of a hat for line up..Norton 5th??? Uniforms look good but the uniform has nothing to do with win and lost record. Go Braves.
By KneeJerk
May 29, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
Will and Mr. Baseball,
You should have posted your views at Norton in the 5 hole b4 his DP grounder. As it is, you look like a couple of hindsight managers. If he goes yard, we wouldn’t hear a peep from you. A batter fails 7 out of 10 times in baseball and he’s successful.
By WhereisHarryCarry'sHONESTY?
May 29, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
Why hasn’t the media told the real story regarding the loss on Monday night? If it were not for the incompetence of the infield play by the Braves allowing a runner to walk over to third with only one out then the Braves could have won that game! The fly ball would have been out two with the runner still at third. The TV post game show and the radio broadcasters did not even mention the blunder as a reason for the loss. STOP SUGAR COATING THINGS!!! Call it like it is! A little league team would know better. Also, swinging at the first pitch so often — WHY????????????? DOB please be honest with the fans on this site and call it like it is - that would be nice for a chnage!
By Carroll Rogers
May 29, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
N8, valid point on the irony of bobby defending the umps. but he does it quite a bit. it’s a love-hate thing he has going, i guess. but really he rarely talks bad about umps in our presence, as reporters, and as a whole, he seems to look after them. just likes them better when they call strikes!
but i hear ya.
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
Double plays.
Blisters.
1 Run losses.
Injured elbows and shoulders.
Missed sac bunts.
DL stints.
GETTING TIRED OF THAT STUFF.
By RC
May 29, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this
The Braves need to take the John Maine approach to this pitcher. Force him to throw strikes. Even though it didn’t work out in the first inning, we were making him work. Then Jeff “6-3” Francouer comes up and grounds out on the first strike he sees the next inning. I know he’s young, and I hope he’ll get better, but it’s time to start thinking a little during at-bats.
By N8
May 29, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this
Efrim
I agree with you about Jeff being a big leaguer and needing to produce (BELIEVE ME, I agree).
But as far as the “dollars” just being looked at by fans? I can’t agree with that. Maybe BOBBY doesn’t care what a player is making, but I bet Wren and JS would answer that differently.
When constructing this team, the salary plays a big role, IMO. If Wren thought we could get better production out of Thorman than Tex, do you think Tex would be here?
Obviously based on past numbers, Wren wanted Tex here. Based on those past numbers (and assuming he’d carry this team), they had NO PROBLEM giving him 12.5 million dollars.
I know we’re “arguing”/discussing this based on assumptions. But I don’t think that I’m that far off.
By Carroll Rogers
May 29, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
they just changed an error to a hit on corey hart’s ball to kelly johnson. not so sure about that one.
By dogmeat
May 29, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
Johnny g—-We have no GODS on this team…We do have a Mgr. that some think is God. But Hoss and Hudson are damn good.
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
KJ…… thats 2 out of your last 12AB…….why are you hitting 2nd?
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
Sit KJ right now…… boooooooooo
mediocre play right there…….. he looked like the 2B of some Peewee league.
Above average glove……yeah right.
Way to go KJ, keep up the hard work, you will soon become a gold glover.
FROM LAST BLOG
By ncgary
May 29, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
hey it takes an abbot and costello play but at least we get a run
By Austin
May 29, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this
Hell if they cant score playing baseball, at least they can score playing football.
By N8
May 29, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this
Kneejerk
“A batter fails 7 out of 10 times in baseball and he’s successful.”
You are absolutely right. But is a guy that succeeds 3 out of 25 times (as Norton has this year), considered successful?
I would call him a “bum”, if I was from NY. But I’m not, so I won’t.
How about you?
By McFann
May 29, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
Dude! We got a RUN!
By Del
May 29, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
The 08 Norton appears to be the o7 version of Woorcrap. If it were left up to me, I would grab back Pena before he is gone, and say goodbye to Both Norton and dear old Corky, and get Anderson up here.
By Johnny g
May 29, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
Dogmeat- very funny first post; But I would go to war with a team of Hudsons/Chippers
By RC
May 29, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
If the Braves make the postseason, everyone in the scouting department should be voted a full playoff share. Jorge “swinging strike” Campillo is looking awesome.
By PJ
May 29, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
Stop the presses. The Braves scored a run, ending the scoreless streak at 18 innings. Had a 19 inning scoreless streak against those Cy Young arms of the Pirates last trip.
By Seligsucks
May 29, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
I am developing a serious man-crush on this Jorge Campillo fella. Wonder if he’d be interested in a fat balding white dude.
crosses fingers
By bigchiefrg
May 29, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
N8
its not bobby’s disdain for umpires that gets him thrown out of games, it’s his love for his players. i bet at least half of his ejections came where he actually agreed with the umpire but was taking up for his ball player.
By bravesfan
May 29, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
Carroll, I just got news that Kotsay is going on the DL. Is that true?
By Efrim
May 29, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
N8
I understand what you’re saying. But it’s not like Tex has been worse than Jeff, he has been better. That said, I know what you mean, the guy is getting 12 million to hit for extra bases, drive in runs, and get on base at an above average clip. I feel ya.
By David
May 29, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
Braves pitching this year - starting and relieving - is not the problem. TERRIBLY INCONSISTENT hitting, particularly from Tex and Frenchy, is the sole reason for the mediocre season.
By edhardiman
May 29, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
Knee Jerk or just Jerk? Will & Mr. Baseball did post before DP, jerk. You are hindsight know it all.
By KneeJerk
May 29, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
N8, I wouldn’t say that. Several players have gone thru 3 out of 25 slumps. If given time (which I’m not sure this team has) Norton would put up Diaz-like numbers. I don’t consider Diaz a bum. Norton is not an veryday player and I think a non-Lofton deal may be made. Where have you gone Mike Devereaux?
By Dan in NJ
May 29, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
WOW. BC has got to stop smoking that cheap sh!t. Norton batting 5th? WTF. scratching my head on this one.
Did Norton go on some kind of hot streak or something that i missed? Cause last i checked he was batting around 150. And 0 for his last 15 i believe. And i see he is sticking to his guns. Batting Yunel 1st and KJ 2nd. Being that that has worked so great so far. Sure, why not keep the same lineup.
whispering to myself… Norton 5th ???? scratch scratch Norton 5th ???? wtf
By lilman916
May 29, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
Corky’s batting average is catching up to Campillo’s era. It’s not fair to Campillo to have Corky catch all his starts.
By Marc
May 29, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
Carroll,
Good call by the scorer. The replays clearly showed that Hart would have been safe even with a perfect throw by Kelly.
By cabravesfan
May 29, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
for those you asked for an update- it’s 1-0 Braves in top of 4th and Francoeur just took a 4 pitch walk…
By TennesseePaul
May 29, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
Nathan: Bobby respects umps. I remember reading an article about Bobby and Umps when he was approaching the record… the Umps all said they have respect for him and when he does come out and yell, if he says something that really takes the Ump back he apologizes the next day. He never apologizes for protecting his players but does so if he thinks his argument with the ump crossed the line.
By mr baseball
May 29, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
KneeJerk:
Regardless how Norton did, and he is now 0-for-2 with 5 runners left on base, the decision to bat him 5th was not especially intelligent. Do you really think he should be batting ahead of Francouer? Would it not make sense to put Blanco at the top of the order and get a run-producer like Johnson in the middle of the lineup, instead of a retread like Norton who came into the game 0-for-14?
Over the years, Cox has frequently come up with batting orders that defied any rational explanation. One of my favorites was when he would hit an over-the-hill Wally Joyner cleanup when he was giving Gallaraga a day off.
For years, the Braves’ talent has overcome Cox’s strategic deficiencies, but the past few teams have not been good enough to offset the head-scratching decisions of Chance the Manager.
By RC
May 29, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this
I love how down everyone is on Norton. Does anyone else remember that he was DIRECTLY responsible for wins in his FIRST TWO games as a Brave? With clutch, RBI pinch hits? I’d dare to say that those 2 wins he’s given us already make him more valuable that Woodard (or Woodcrap, whichever you prefer).
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
Another DP————- what do you know.
This just cant be.
By RC
May 29, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
Anyone watching at home: Was the double play just bad luck, or bad baserunning on Francouer? Can’t tell from MLB Gametracker.
By Efrim
May 29, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
Mclung has given up 3 hits and walked 3, yet we have only scored one run.
Honestly.
By Maturin
May 29, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
Campillowned?
By Austin
May 29, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
Marc
The reason Kelly had to rush the throw was because he double clutched. Error all the way. Terrible ruling.
By TennesseePaul
May 29, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
Mike Cameron… so glad the Braves didn’t sign this guy.
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
Blanco has the 2nd OBP on the team among players with 100+ AB. Hitting him leadoff is a no-brainer. Please cox, have some balls, and i dont mean Wilson nor Spalding.
Chipper has a .495 OBP, which is 25th all-time. And he started slow in that department, he just started taking walks. That stat will also become interesting, he might end up in the top 10.
By Cody
May 29, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this
The Braves deserve to loose today with a line-up of Escobar, Johnson, Chipper, Tex, NORTON, Francour, Blanco, MILLER. We have a little league line-up today. I think the with dicovery of Campillo the Braves can aford to wait on the Hampton thing. They really don’t need another starter unless one is made availiable at a good price. I still think a trade to get Maddux would help the team. But the trade I believe would help the team even more would be the trade for NADY from Pittsburgh, this guy would give us like two top of the line-ups in the bottom of the order. 1. Escobar, 2. Kotsay, 3. Chipper, 4,. Tex the other half (1)5 McCann, (2) 6 Nady/Blanco, (3) 7 Johnson, (4)8 Francour.
Gotta love your chances with a line-up like that.
By dogmeat
May 29, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this
johnny g, I agree. I would go to war with them also my friend. I said they were damn good and you could add Smoltz and couple more to that.
I just don’t think of people as Gods.
By eric the elder
May 29, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
That run we got was a classic Braves road “rally.”
Yunel singles, Chipper moves him to third. This is followed by a weak grounder to second by Tex and a tapper to the mound by Norton.
We take whatever we can get, I suppose.
By David
May 29, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
I do like the idea someone posted earlier - somebody should ask Tex directly “How does it feel to be a grown man and yet so dependent on Chipper carrying your sorry *ss everyday?”
By Supes
May 29, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this
Time for some gold tongs, sacrifice some chickens (bats afraid of curveball?), sleep with some 2’s…just do whatever you have to do b/c this is just…there ARE NO WORDS to describe how pathetic the BRAVES offense is on the roard this year minus the 3 games where they got 26runs combined!
By Richie
May 29, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this
Somebody really needs to chew Frenchy’s a$$ out already. Pull him to the side or talk to him in the dugout tunnel before the inning starts and just light into him. Enough is enough already. His lackadaisical manner, has no place on the team. He isnt supposed to get doubled off and killing a potential run scoring inning like that. Maybe he has to be benched during a game the same way Andruw was.
By geauxbraves2000
May 29, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Francoeur just took a 4 pitch walk…
Elizabeth!!!
By BravesinTN
May 29, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
Why oh WHY is Corky Miller in the big leagues?
By Carroll Rogers
May 29, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
Gotcha, Marc. I don’t have a TV near me for a good look at replays (guess i gotta be a home writer for that). Did figure that Hart’s speed made Kelly rush the throw anyway.
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
Campillo, Boyer, Bennett, Jurrjens and Kotsay among braves most pleasant surprises this year.
I would mention chipper there, since his hot hitting is not a surprise, only the fact that it is hotter than ever. That might put him in the group of surprises.
Aswell as McCann, he is doing very good. Lots of individual good news. Hope it starts clicking with the rest of the guys that should keep performing good or even better. TEX, Yunel, Glavine, Hudson, smoltz, soriano, gonzo, francoeur.
I dont think the team needs another acquisition, it is complete, that means we are very very good. Lets just play well on the road guys….. We can match any team in the NL and maybe in baseball.
Goooooooo braves, wake up and stop acting like pu$$ies.
By John
May 29, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Do none of yall remember Norton coming up with 2 clutch hits in his first 3 at-bats? I don’t understand how he is already being compared to Woodward after producing 2 more big hits in a month than Woodward had in a season.
By SeligSucks
May 29, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Sung to “Maniac”
Anemia Anemia on the road
And they’re whiffing like they never did at hooooooome
Anemia Anemia on the road
By Shaun
May 29, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul, funny Mike Cameron comment.
I’m glad in light of the PED stuff. But we’ll see what his numbers look like at season’s end.
By David
May 29, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
HAHA! Intentionally walking Chipper to get to TEX!!!! EVERYONE has realized that Tex sucks right now!
By RC
May 29, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
I love the agressive play of stealing 2nd, but with Chipper batting you don’t give the other team and excuse to walk him. Just my opinion, and I can’t be upset with Kelly for the aggresive play.
By ncgary
May 29, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
u turn
By TURTSNAP
May 29, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
I was just thinking a 3 run bomb by Tex after an IBB to Chipper would be SWEET!!!!!!!!!!! HECK YES!!!
By Supes
May 29, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
FINALLY.
TEX gets a hit after he’s been dissed by the BREWERS for 2 straight games, as they pitch around and walk chipper jones.
MORE OF THAT PLEASE!
By cabravesfan
May 29, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
Tex just hit a 3 run homer
By Steve from OH
May 29, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
There’s Tex!
By Jeff321
May 29, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
Why didn’t Corky Miller bunt the runners over? Oh right, apparently he can’t bunt or hit. Ya gotta love our backup catcher.
By Brando
May 29, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
TEX!!!
By Johnny g
May 29, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
Tex… finally!
By David
May 29, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
No sooner do I post that and Tex hits a homerun!!! Best tasting crow I’ve eaten in weeks!!!!
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
Ballgame!!!!!!!!!
as long as its not a close game on the road…… we wont lose this one.
By Efrim
May 29, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
Wow. That is scary. They are walking Chipper with one out in a one run ball game to face Tex. Scary.
By H from Marietta
May 29, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
Make them pay, Tex!!!
By Rahul
May 29, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
there we go, Tex. Hopefully this one really gets him going
By Efrim
May 29, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
Good. Make them pay Tex. Make them pay.
By David
May 29, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
Intentional walk to get to Corky? Now THAT I understand!
By Carroll Rogers
May 29, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
there it is. three-run jack from teixeira. that should ease some minds on here….
By LT-AA Blogger
May 29, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
Mark Teixeria sighting!!!!!!!!!
My Tex watch is working!!!!!!
First home run since May 10th.
Welcome back go the team Mark!!!!!
Hey look, we just went from a “1” run lead to a “4” run lead.
By H from Marietta
May 29, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
Why is Norton and Miller playing??? Get rid of both of them for a dozen balls each!
By SeligSucks
May 29, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this
Disregard my comedic song from earlier:
GOOD GOSH DARN WHAT IS GOING ON?! 4 RUNS!
By Josh H
May 29, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this
So glad to see Texeira make them pay for walking Chipper…
4-0 Braves, and we’re still up (albeit with Campillo comin up)
By cabravesfan
May 29, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
looks like the guys are starting to wake up a bit…Francoeur and Tex both doing some hitting today
By j-schooldropout
May 29, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
Finally! Some runs. All we would have needed is a little of that this week and we would be a half game out of first. Missed opportunities like this make a big difference in September.
By TennesseePaul
May 29, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
Campillo is kicking @ss!
By H from Marietta
May 29, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
Make them pay, Campy!!!
By David
May 29, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
Holy smokes I wish I had a TV at work! Campillo just drove in 2 runs - sounds like a fun inning!
By Kneejerk
May 29, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
edhardiman..or is it ed hard-headed man. Go back and check the last sentence of “mr. baseball’s” post. He mentioned the double play. The manager must sometimes play a hunch. This isn’t a video game where you play by the book. Cox is shaking things up trying to get the team going. I’m sure if Bobby had the foresight to know what each player was going to do before it happened you guys couldn’t second guess him.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 29, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
6-0. That’s more like it.
See, we shoulda batted Campillo cleanup.
By PJ
May 29, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
Carroll,
My mind won’t be eased until we start putting runs and wins on the road regularly.
By McFann
May 29, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
WHOO-HOO!! Campillo!!
By mr baseball
May 29, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
Fortunately for the Braves, opposing managers are capable of making decisions just as dumb as our beloved dugout denizen. Why in the world would you walk Chipper in that situation? Mostly he’s been hitting a lot of singles, and he is definitely capable of grounding into a DP.
Oops. I forgot who Yost coached under.
Didn’t someone rag on the Braves earlier today for swinging at too many first pitches? Lots of folks on here with lots of opinions and very little actual baseball knowledge. Some of the criticism of the players is almost funny in its absurdity.
Sort of like listening to Bill O’Reilly.
By fair weather fan
May 29, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
I take it all back. This is a great team. Tex is starting to hit; he is a keeper. It is going to be a successful road trip. Will take the series in Cincy. This team is looking more like a winner everyday. I should have never doubted their ability.
By SeligSucks
May 29, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
Disregard my man-crush on Campillo.
He not only has a batting average now, but his ERA is over 1.00…he is dead to me.
By J.D. Phillips
May 29, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this
The Braves will probably score 12 - 15 runs in this game. The Braves are notorious for this. If only they could scatter them out more often.
By N8
May 29, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this
T-Paul
I know that Bobby respects umps. I was more or less cracking a joke.
I can’t remember the umpire, but there was one on Jim Rome last year as Bobby was approaching the record, that had a couple of really good Bobby stories that showed that he appreciates the umpires job.
Believe it or not, THAT is one of the good things that Bobby does, IMO. Going out there and “saving” his players, by getting himself ejected.
He knows that the players are more important than who’s managing them.
NOBODY (myself included) can’t say that he doesn’t have his players’ backs.
On a side note, IT’S ABOUT FRICKIN TIME TEX!! Well done. I too will eat crow all day long, if it is necessary.
By Shaun
May 29, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
there it is. three-run jack from teixeira. that should ease some minds on here….
No way. Some minds will not be eased unless the Braves go 162-0 and sweep every post-season series.
Look at the folks who think Bobby Cox is the worst manager in history.
By KneeJerk
May 29, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
mr. baseball: are you kidding? With first base open and Chipper up, you asked why would you walk him? Most baseball people would take their chances this year with Tex rather than Chipper. It just so happened that Tex came thru this time, but Yost made the correct call.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 29, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
Not much love for Bobby from the denizens, eh?
A win here today and a trip to warmer climes this weekend (Miami) might dispel some of that gloom.
By TJ
May 29, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
Oops. I forgot who Yost coached under.
Ha! Now we’re blaming Bobby Cox for the opposing manager’s bad decisions!
By KC
May 29, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
So whadya think? Is Campillo for real?
I have to admit, for weeks I haven’t given him much thought… just been waiting for the clock to strike midnight on him. I’ve been expecting his success to be short-lived. But will it be?
Another great start so far today… Is this guy for real?
By Shaun
May 29, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
The Braves will probably score 12 - 15 runs in this game. The Braves are notorious for this. If only they could scatter them out more often.
Only some on this blog would find something to complain about if the Braves scored 12-15 runs. Boo hoo! Why didn’t they score them over two or three games? Let’s whine about it!
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
J.D. Phillips braves wont score that many runs since miller and norton are in the lineup. It could be the case if mccann and kotsay were in.
By TJ
May 29, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this
Kneejerk, IMO, the bad decision wasn’t walking Chippper (that was a no brainer). The bad decision was not holding KJ, and letting him steal 2B. It amounts to walking CJ with a man on 1st, which I think is an awful call. As good as he is, you’ve got a 50% + chance of getting him out, and some chance of an inning-ending DP. To intentionally put a runner in scoring position and a man on 1B is a weak move.
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this
Why not leave Campillo in? cant he make 90 pitches? Just wondering.
By sri
May 29, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
Do you think Bobby will use Stockman pitch today?
By cabravesfan
May 29, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this
another great outing by Campillo- anyone know why he only went 5? Blisters acting up or Bobby being cautious with him?
By sri
May 29, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this
Do you think Bobby will use Stockman today?
By mr baseball
May 29, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
KneeJerk:
Pay attention to the game before you post. The Brewers did not hold Kelly on, essentially inviting him to steal 2nd so they could walk Chipper intentionally. Even if Chipper hits a single, the Brewers would have been no worse off, and if Kelly got to 3rd on the hit, they could ahve walked Tex intentionally or at least pitched around him.
You don’t intentionally walk a hitter — even one as hot as Chipper — with a runner on 1st (which is basically what Yost did)and someone like Tex on deck. It was an extremely dumb decision by Yost and it cost him 3 runs.
By Renegator
May 29, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
I hope Bobby took out Campillo because his blister was acting up - otherwise why take him out?
By TJ
May 29, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
So whadya think? Is Campillo for real?
KC, I dunno, but it’s not like a Steve Trachsel somehow winning some games despite terrible peripherals.
The guy walks almost no one, strikes out a batter an inning, and gave up his 1st HR in 37 innings.
I don’t know if it’ll last, but it sure hasn’t been smoke ‘n mirrors so far.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 29, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
Great to see Tex have two nice games in a row. Hope it’s a trend.
Why is that important? With Chipper basically being unconscious out there, the guys behind him need to produce.
Over the past two seasons, Chipper has been on base 449 times via hit or walk and has scored 195 runs; he’s scored 43 percent of the time he’s reached base.
In 2008 (up til the 6th inning today) he has reached base 109 times and scored 39 runs — or 36 percent of the time. Had Tex and Frenchy hit more often (not going to rip McCann, who’s done his share), Chipper would probably have 50 or more runs scored and no doubt the Braves would have won at least one or two of those close losses.
If Tex heats up and Bobby leaves Heap in the 5-hole, this offense could explode.
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this
Very smart play by Escobar. Instead of doing to much about hart, he went after a 300 pounder that he knows is slowe than a turtle. As a result he doesnt makes a single throw and makes the out.
That kid just knows baseball by heart.
By monty
May 29, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
That hit into the corner really showed that Frenchy just can’t go and get balls like he used to. Frenchy of old would have ran that one down
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
Is there something wrong with stockman? or why is it that bobby just doesnt uses him that much. Same for resop, he has been doing a lot better lately.
By N8
May 29, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
mr baseball
“Didn’t someone rag on the Braves earlier today for swinging at too many first pitches? Lots of folks on here with lots of opinions and very little actual baseball knowledge.”
I wasn’t ragging on THAT earlier today, but have in the past.
But even I’m able to see the difference between swinging at the first pitch (if it’s hittable and/or the pitch you are looking for), as opposed to the Francoeur approach.
Which, more often than not, is to swing at ANY pitch the second it leaves the pitchers hand.
The best way to describe Frenchy’s approach at the plate, would be to say that he is to hitting, what Leslie Nielson was to umpiring in the Naked Gun.
IE: He tends to “jump the gun” a bit, with his impatience at the plate.
Like I said. Swinging at the first pitch, and swinging at the first pitch REGARDLESS of pitch type or location are two different things.
Also, if a pitcher is struggling to throw strikes, and if the first two hitters have made outs on minimal pitches after YOUR pitcher labored through the previous half inning, those are two scenarios when TAKING A PITCH wouldn’t be a horrible idea.
By Shaun
May 29, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
Why not leave Campillo in? cant he make 90 pitches? Just wondering.
Don’t you people know it has to be because Bobby Cox is the world’s worst baseball manager of all-time in the history of world and is responsible for all the evils on the planet?
By FloridaBrave
May 29, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
Yes, Campillo’s definitely for real. You don’t dominate like he has this year without being good. He has strung together 3 GREAT starts. Everything he throws moves and he’s got impeccable command of at least 5 different pitches allowing him to keep hitters off balance by pitching backwards. He’s locked down our 4th starter’s spot.
By Renegator
May 29, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
Damn, Corky sucks.
What can you expect from a guy who plays once every 7-10 days though?
By RC
May 29, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
I have no idea if blisters affected Campillo, but I’m guessing Bobby took him out because of fatigue. He’s still not quite stretched out as a starter, and you could tell he was laboring a bit in that last inning (erratic control, not getting batters to swing and miss). Great move by Bobby to leave him in to get the win, then get him out of there before any damage was done. Since Cox’s moves are 2nd guess so often on this blog, I feel we need to recognize when he makes good managerial decisions as well. That was perfect timing on Campillo.
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
Renegator I think bobby is making sure he builts arm strength before he lets him go 90 pitches. Kind of a spring training progress stuff.
By Tomahawkin' Again (Like it's 1995)
May 29, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
In addition to the grey jerseys and the blue hats to break the road curse, I cut the head off a chicken and spread it’s blood on a Andruw Jones autographed ball I own. So far, so good!
By Renegator
May 29, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
Lead off walk by Boyer - argh!
By BravesFanInRockies
May 29, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
Boyer in the 7th — does that mean we’ll see Soriano today?
By David
May 29, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
I think Frenchy’s ankle is bothering him a lot more than he lets on - both at the plate, and as we just saw, in the field.
By mr baseball
May 29, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
KC:
Judging from a sample Shaun would argue is too small to make a valid judgment, the guy appears to be legit, although I would not expect him to maintain an ERA around 1 for long.
The guy has a big time change and a befuddling slow breaking ball. He also has excellent control, and as long as he can get ahead in the count, he is going to force hitters into a lot of guessing. Occasionally, they’re going to guess right and do what Branyan did, but the occasional HR is not going to kill him as long as he doesn’t walk many.
Our Hall of Fame manager seems determined to work Boyer onto the DL. Stockman or Carlyle not trustworthy enough to pitch with a 5-run lead? Cox apparently occurs.
No lead is safe enough for our fearless leader. There are guys in the ‘pen who have barely pitched in the last 2 weeks, but Cox keeps running Boyer & Acosta out to the mound as often as he can with seemingly comfortable leads.
If either or both gets burned out before the end of the season, I don’t want to hear Chance the Manager bemoaning his team’s bad luck. He will be the person responsible for it.
By cabravesfan
May 29, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Since Campillo has turned into one of our most reliable starters I would hate to see him have blister problems all year- hopefully it was just Bobby being careful- would hate even more to see him blow out his arm
By BravesFanInRockies
May 29, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Ladies and gentlement, from what we’ve seen the past two days, the Braves have their #4 and #5 starters.
Nice job, guys.
By tr
May 29, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this
Overlord & cabravesfan -
Blisters or not, Campillo isn’t “stretched” out to a full game yet. Just like they didn’t leave Bennett out there deep into the game when he made spot starts, Campillo is still making the transition from the bullpen (1 or 2 innings)to starting (4, 5, 6+ innings).
By RC
May 29, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this
Since Campillo and Bennet are combining to be an awesome 3rd starter, can we give them a Hollywood nickname like “Brangelina” or “Tomcat”? My vote is for Campet, although Benillo isn’t bad either.
By Random
May 29, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
Quack Quack: “My point was that he is indeed hitting with less power. The S% is higher than usual because the BA is way higher than usual not because he is hitting with power. 77 hits and only 23 extra base hits. that is indeed a low percentage for him.”
Okay, I see what you’re saying now (I think).
If Chipper had been getting extra-base hits this year in the same proportions that he has for his career, then (out of 77 hits) we would “expect” 15 doubles (vice 11), 14 HRs (vice 12), PLUS 1 triple (vice none). That would put his “expected” SLG at .723 rather than his “puny” .674. (All stats are thru yesterday’s game.)
Okay — fair enough.
Thanks — I have no further questions.
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
Don’t you people know it has to be because Bobby Cox is the world’s worst baseball manager of all-time in the history of world and is responsible for all the evils on the planet?
Not quite, Randolph and Girardi are even worse.
By Jeff321
May 29, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this
McCann amazed by Campillo’s stuff
http://tinyurl.com/594s5h
By TennesseePaul
May 29, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this
Payne: Things no good at home? What’s with the persistent sarcastic neg-head comments directed at bloggers?
Why not leave Campillo in? cant he make 90 pitches? Just wondering.
I’m interested in a reason coming from Bobby. I too would like to see Campillo pitch past the 5th inning. But, perhaps this is related to the number of times a batter sees the pitcher… For his career he doesn’t appear to have faced many batters 3 times or more in a game. There aren’t that many numbers on the guy for any real deep analysis of the theory but here is what has occurred thus far in Camp’s career concerning innings, and times through the order…
By J.D. Phillips
May 29, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
Ladies and gentlement, from what we’ve seen the past two days, the Braves have their #4 and #5 starters.
I agree and I for one am glad Chuck James is not one of them. Just got to think he will be involved in perhaps a multi-player trade later in the season.
By RC
May 29, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
Umm….why is Acosta hitting for himself with the bases loaded and 2 outs?
By Mets Stink
May 29, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
I don’t know if anyone mentioned this earlier. I was listening on the radio during the KJ stolen base/Chipper IBB. The Brewers didn’t hold Kelly on first, basically giving him second. That freed up first to intentionally walk Chipper. In essence, they were intentionally walking Chipper with a runner on 1st. That’s a lot of respect for Chipper. I think it was Chip that said it was something you’d only do to Barry Bonds.
By DAP
May 29, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
ive gotta say, im not really sure if chipper has an argument with the all star stuff. he has been injured to much to be voted in since 2004, and in 2002 and 2003 when he wasnt hurt and was playing pretty well, he was a leftfielder. so was he going to beat out barry bonds to get to the all star game? chipper is the man, but yeah right. yeah, id say its tuff luck for chipper, but the all star votes have been pretty fair.
if he had been playing 3rd in 2002 and 2003, he probably would have gotten in.
By Paul
May 29, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
I am sure this has been well discussed but I couldnt agree more with Mr Baseball. WHY DOES BLAINE BOYER HAVE TO PITCH EVERY DAY??? Is he trying to ruin his career like Oscar Villereal? Phil Stockman has been dominant (in a very small sample size admittedly) and Carlye and Ring could use some work. But again out go Boyer and Acosta. I bet they cant wait for Smoltz and Gonzalez to come back. Perhaps they will get some rest.
By ncscoots
May 29, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
Not quite, Randolph and Girardi are even worse.
Such a statement would imply that you, Overlord, could actually tell the difference. I’ve yet to see anything here to support that premise, my man.
By KneeJerk
May 29, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
“mr. baseball”- your original post said nothing about the Brewers not holding KJ on. Pay attention to what you do or don’t post.
By FloridaBrave
May 29, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
Right,guys, Campillo is not stretched out yet. Bobby’s right to not push him too hard too fast year.
By twonateshow.com
May 29, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
Is there something wrong with stockman? or why is it that bobby just doesnt uses him that much. Same for resop, he has been doing a lot better lately.
Overlord, I’m guessing he’s probably still feeling Stockman out for what kind of situations he can trust him in. But you’re right, he’s not seeing much time overall. In Resop’s case, he’s not on the club anymore.
By FloridaBrave
May 29, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this
On the other hand, Boyer is clearly fatigued and not using Gotay there to pinch-hit for Acosta was ridiculous.
By N8
May 29, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this
mr baseball
Your 3:16 is pretty “on”.
The only thing I can conclude, is that Bobby is assuming that with Soriano now back, with Smoltz and Gonzo to follow, that he’s gonna use these guys while he can (since they are reliable), and “rest” them, when the big-3 return.
The only “problem” with this theory (if it is his theory), is that if the big-3 DON’T all return, or are able to stay healthy when the do return, the you will be correct. These guys are gonna be burned up.
He might also be trying to salvage ONE DAMN GAME in Milwaukee since we’ve sucked it up the first two games of the series.
I was thinking the other day about the old 3 “thirds” to a season theory. You know, the one where EVERY team wins 54 games, EVERY team loses 54 games, leaving the “other” 54 games to determine a teams “ability”?
These series are just a microcosm of that theory. We RARELY get swept in a 3 game series. And we rarely (past few years) sweep a 3 game series.
We seem to always win one, AND lose one. It’s that damn “3rd” game of these series that we can’t seem to overcome on the road.
At home, we’re winning the “3rd” game. On the road, we’re losing it.
So in reality, if we could turn the tide, and win 1 or 2 more games on every road trip, we’d be OK.
Seems simplistic, and very much so like I’m stating the obvious. But it’s really not that complicated.
Just bad luck I guess.
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
Whats the update on Kotsay?
Is he playing next series?
By Paul
May 29, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
Acosta just struck out all 4 batters he faced so perhaps Bobby does not what he is doing. Hopefully he doesnt trot him out for the ninth.
By KC
May 29, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
TJ: Yeah… I tend to think this guy is going to be a quality starter. You hear a lot of people talk about how good his stuff is, and that’s always a good sign.
By Paul
May 29, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Acosta just struck out all 4 batters he faced so perhaps Bobby does know what he is doing. Hopefully he doesnt trot him out for the ninth.
By geauxbraves2000
May 29, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
4 batters faced, 4KS, WTG Acosta!
Geaux Braves!!
By Braveheart
May 29, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
The only players I can remember being this hot this long and keeping their average over .400 was Lenny Dykstra in 1990 and Paul Oneill in 1994. Both of them kept their average over .400 until the middle of June. Is there anyone else?
George Brett was only batting .337 in 1980 on July 10 but batted .421 the rest of the way. Tony Gwynn dipped under .400 in the middle of May in 1994 and never got back over for the rest of the season until the strike happened.
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
RC, cause there is no need to burn another arm. to burn 4 arms in a 6-1 game is already absurd enough. good thing Cox didnt make it 5 pitchers.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 29, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this
RC,
It’s a 6-1 game. Acosta was brought in in a double switch and faced only one hitter in the 7th.
Several times this year Bobby hasn’t made the double switch with the bottom of the Atlanta order due up and he’s had to burn a reliever, which adds stress to the bullpen. This time, fortunately, he didn’t do it.
Acosta then of course struck out the side in the 8th which makes Bobby look even more prescient than usual.
By Stephen
May 29, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
I don’t see the Norton/Infante platoon working out very well for the next 6 weeks. Got to get someone to take Diaz’ spot.
My vote goes for Gabe Gross. I don’t think it would take much to acquire him and I think he has decent up-side. He’s from Dothan, Alabama and played QB at Auburn… so it would be good for him to get close to home.
By DAP
May 29, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
monty Frenchy of old would have ran that one down
nope. no outfielder runs that one down if they are playing the gap like jeff was. have you noticed hes made a couple of good running catches in the gap?
the defense is different this year, the lines arent gonna be guarded like they used to be.
By Braveheart
May 29, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
Whats the update on Kotsay? Is he playing next series?
Geez, Overlord, Carroll just said only two hours ago:
Kotsay is feeling better today than yesterday, asked Bobby if he’d be back in there this weekend, and he just said we’ll have to see, it’s day to day.
I doubt there have been any updates while she sits in the press box and the team is out on the field over the last two hours.
By dogmeat
May 29, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
Overlord agree about Randolph but not Girardi. Not enough time out on Joe yet. 1 year manager of the year and 1/4 of season NYY? to early to judge.
By albanian braves fan
May 29, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this
is remembering growing up in “old country”. roof many times also be open.
By KC
May 29, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
With the way things have changed in baseball (more runs being scored these days)… I think the statistical criteria for a save should be holding a four run lead to close the game, and not three runs or less as it is now.
Having said that, I’m not sure a FIVE run lead is a save situation… but you can’t tell that to Bobby Cox. He always seems to run his big dogs out of the pen with a 5 run lead.
I can understand not getting complacent about leads, but if you don’t rest your horses with a 5 run lead… when do you rest them?
By BravesFanInRockies
May 29, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
Dang, Chipper’s 2-for-4 with 2 BBs. Bench him!
By Renegator
May 29, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
I hope Bobby doesn’t trot Soriano out in the 9th with a 8-1 lead just because it is the ninth and Soriano is the closer.
However, knowing what we all know about Bobby - here comes Soriano.
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
RC my comment was just a sarcasm. I know bobby is not in the class of those 2 guys. But he is far from being one of the best ever to me.
By mr baseball
May 29, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
KneeJerk:
Mentioned not holding Kelly on in 1st paragraph at 2:56. May have been someone else’s post you’re referring to.
N8:
Definitely not including you on list of MIB bloggers with more opinions than knowledge. Lots of guys with unfamiliar screen names pop up, make drive-by uninformed comments then disappear. Seem to base their criticisms on the latest at-bat or inning pitched, whatever cheezed them off.
10Paul:
Don’t think Shaun likes my anti-Cox rants. Can’t argue against them with painstakingly researched stats or by citing park differentials.
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this
wow soriano dealing darts……plenty of control and zip.
By Daybed Wagmoe
May 29, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
FloridaBrave:On the other hand, Boyer is clearly fatigued and not using Gotay there to pinch-hit for Acosta was ridiculous.
Eh? Let’s see just how “ridiculous” it was: -The Braves are up 5 runs in the top of the 8th. -The Brewers have scored a total of 5 runs through 25 innings in this series, including only 1 today. -They had the following players on the bench: Mark Kotsay (who is hurt), Brian McCann (today’s backup catcher, who Cox needs to hang onto just in case), and Ruben Gotay. Pinch-hitting Gotay would leave the bench vulnerable for the rest of the game, and it’s possible that Gotay may have been needed later on in the game.
And, in hindsight, Acosta struck out the side after grounding out to end the inning. If he came out, you’d have to use another pitcher for one inning.
I’d say it was a questionable call because the Brewers could’ve had a big bottom of the 8th and put the game close, tied it, or even taken the lead off of Acosta. But really, not “ridiculous.”
By Carroll Rogers
May 29, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
blaine boyer doesn’t pitch the one day and you guys are on bobby, then he does pitch and that’s no good either. and the acosta thing? score does matter. seems there’s some nitpicking going on.
soriano is pitching the ninth for those who can’t see, and just got up to 94 on Russell Branyan. he struck Craig Counsell to start it off. but just lost Branyan on a walk.
By Overlord
May 29, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Braveheart sorry to bother you with the question. Didnt know you were so busy to answer.
By N8
May 29, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Hey, just wanted to point out, before I head home from a ……er……hard day of work, that today was a good day.
A couple of things worth moaning about (like Bobby NOT using Stockman today instead of Boyer).
But other than that, a good day at the yard.
Tex appears to be on his way (though it won’t erase how ugly his first two months of the season have been on occasion), which is GREAT news.
Nor will Tex’s day erase how UGLY the offense in general has been on the road….but it’s a start.
Let’s get Smoltz back, Gonzo back and get Campillo stretched out a bit (along with resolving the blister issues), get Kotsay back, and start rolling.
There. Mark your damn calendar. Today is a new beginning for me. Let’s see how long it lasts. LOL!
By ncscoots
May 29, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
KC, I think I’d rather see Soriano shake off the rust in a game like this than wait for a 2-1 nail-biter.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 29, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
KC,
Bobby does use his best arms with “safe” leads more often than I like. But this was the perfect game to let Soriano get some work. It’s not close, so he can get comfortable on the mound after a long time away from live hitters.
Better today than putting him in a tight situation and have him think he has to throw perfect pitches to help the team. Get the butterflies out, I say.
By geauxbraves2000
May 29, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
Way to break out of it offense, awesome job by the staff as always, great game all around.
Geaux Braves!!
By rupert
May 29, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
fear the alternate road hat!!
By Tomahawkin' Again (Like it's 1995)
May 29, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
Nice win today, but 1 of 3 from the Brewers doesn’t cut it. On our current pace, 61-20 at home and 22-59 on the road = 83-79. I wouldn’t print the ticket-tape parade route just yet. Better take 2 of 3 from the Reds to salvage this road trip.
By ncscoots
May 29, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
Gosh, how do two guys so uncomfortable at the top of the order manage to go 5-for-12?
Oh, wait. The road grays must not pinch. Got it.
By Renegator
May 29, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
ncscoots
Every road game is a nail-biter for this team…
By David
May 29, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
That was fun game to follow, wish I could have seen it on TV.
By Gman
May 29, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Braveheart,
SI.com recently had photos of recent players to flirt with .400 season average since 1980. http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/0805/latest.dates.above.400/content.1.html
G Brett finished with .390 in 1980. He was batting .400 on Sept. 19, 1980 with KC.
By Braveheart
May 29, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
Some of you people are funny about the whole the old Frenchy would have caught this, the old frenchy would have caught that.
Have you watched Frenchy field the last few years? He won a Gold Glove not because he has a Gold Glove but because he has a Golden Arm.
Frenchy has never been a spectacular fielder. Never has great range. Never makes great diving plays. Never has had the best footwork. Never takes the best routes to balls. Never makes great plays crashing or leaping into and over walls. He just never has.
Doesn’t mean he has been a bad fielder. He’s been a good one for a rightfielder but there is a reason he was never a candidate for centerfield and it had little to do with the foolish thought process that says they didn’t want to lose his arm in right. He’s just not that great of a fielder. He’s more than good enough for right but let’s stop this nonsense of the old frenchy this, the old frenchy that.
It’s like hearing people say Dikembe Mutumbo or Marcus Camby turned into bad defenders overnight because Shaq and Patrick Ewing dropped 40 on their heads. No, Dikembe and Camby made first team all defensive because they blocked lots of shots like Frenchy nails lots of runners but Shaq and Ewing always dropped 40 on the heads of Camby and Mutombo when they played them just like lots of balls landed in right when Frenchy was playing out there. Don’t let a Gold Glove or an All NBA defensive first team award cloud your memory and make you remember them as better than they actually were.
I think you’ve all let that Gold Glove get to your heads and you think he actually won it for his glove and not his arm.
I thought the annoying statement of the year was gonna be the whole Andruw would have had that. Never imagined it would be the old frenchy would have had that.
By keylargo
May 29, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
The Brewers are interviewing KJ and the announcers think it is JF. I think even I would know if they were interviewing Mike Cameron and they were calling him Prince Fielder.
By 3trees
May 29, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
Trying to be positive - The pitching staff just gave 5 runs (albeit to the Brew-Crew) in 3 games. Quite good, even with the caveat that we lost 2 of 3.
The bats, well, I was trying to be positive. But as someone mentioned Suppan ain’t a terrible pitcher. Braves outscored ‘em 10 - 5 over the series and… well, you know.
Is it just me or is the lighting in Miller Park really dingy? And its fairly new, right? Reminds me of the lighting in silent films.
Welcome back Soriano.
I know its a baseball blog, but here’s to pie, toes and all manner of lost blogging topics.
Go Braves!
By ncscoots
May 29, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
Renegator, you might be right, LOL. Shoot, give up five runs in a series, you ought to be able to win two just by accident!
By McFann
May 29, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
A road win!! Whoo-hoo!!
Hey, Ms. Rogers, the part about Ohman modeling the “different looks” just struck me funny! Kinda odd, but funny.
I’m like Tex in that I like the traditional look better (and I don’t really think the uniforms have anything to do with their “woes”), but what the heck…
By FloridaBrave
May 29, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this
RUMBLINGS FROM JAYSON STARK:
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=stark_jayson&page=rumblings&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab2pos1
Can Chipper Jones hit .400? So when do we start the Chipper .400 Watch? Uh, how about now? Only three times in the past 50 years — in 1983 (Rod Carew), 1974 (Rico Carty) and 1959 (Hank Aaron) — have we awakened on May 29 and found any hitter with as high a batting average as the Chipster has now (.418). So why not jump on board this locomotive?
Yeah, sure, we recognize that it’s 67 years and counting since Ted Williams hit .400. And it’s 28 years since George Brett even became the last man to carry a .400 average into September. But why not Chipper? He’s a switch-hitter who’s batting .409 left-handed and .431 right-handed. He hit .422 in April. He’s been just as scorching in May (.429; a 3-for-10 March brings his average down to its current .418). And over the past year, he has had only one month when he’s hit lower than .364.
In fact, if we look back over that year, we find a man who’s batting .376 (with a .459 OBP and .622 SLG) — for a full season. Which means if he’d just gotten one extra hit every two weeks, he’d be a .400 hitter for the equivalent of one complete season. So let’s say this one more time: Why not?
“I think he could do it, because I’ve never seen him so locked in from both sides of the plate as he is this year,” said one NL scout. “In the past, there were ways to pitch to Chipper and get him out. This year, even if you make good pitches, he can still get a hit.”
Who is positioned to be this year’s Rockies? A year ago this time, four of the eight playoff teams (Rockies, Cubs, Phillies, Yankees) were at least 5½ games out of the playoff spots they eventually won. Then the light bulb flicked on. So the question is: Which team this year is most likely to come from even a couple of games back in the pack and show up in October?
BravesWe heard nominations for the Indians, Blue Jays and Dodgers. But our pick would be the Braves. They have a better run differential (plus-48) than six of the eight teams that would make the playoffs if the postseason started today. They rank first or second in the league in batting average, ERA and rotation ERA. And the biggest reason for their .500-ish record (28-25) is their 2-14 record in one-run games. But that’s a record that figures to improve dramatically once they add John Smoltz, Rafael Soriano and Mike Gonzalez to their bullpen.
“I’m going to predict this right now,” said one NL scout. “I think Atlanta wins that division.”
• Mad Dog for sale?: Greg Maddux to the Braves? Hey, it’s a beautiful plot line. It’s a rumor that never quite dies. And it sure isn’t impossible, if the price is right. But clubs that have spoken with the Braves say they’re more focused on trying to find a younger starting pitcher they can hang onto for just the last few months of this season. So think more along the lines of the non-free agents who could pop onto the market (though not necessarily these names in particular) — Joe Blanton, Rich Harden, Bronson Arroyo, Daniel Cabrera, Jeremy Bonderman, etc.
By TennesseePaul
May 29, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
I’m not sure a FIVE run lead is a save situation
I’d agree that this doesn’t seem to be much of a “save” opportunity but it is technically if…
Saves:
Rule 10.20 in the Official Rule Book states:
Credit a pitcher with a save when he meets all three of the following conditions:
(1) He is the finishing pitcher in a game won by his club; and
(2) He is not the winning pitcher; and
(3) He qualifies under one of the following conditions:
- (a) He enters the game with a lead of no more than three runs and pitches for at least one inning; or
- (b) He enters the game, regardless of the count, with the potential tying run either on base, or at bat, or on deck (that is, the potential tying run is either already on base or is one of the first two batsmen he faces; or
- (c) He pitches effectively for at least three innings. No more than one save may be credited in each game.
So if a pitcher enters the game late and the bases are loaded and the tying run is on deck (that’d be 5 runs if they all scored) it is a save. Gagne got a save like this during his juiced up streak. He did it May 6th 2004 against Florida. The Dodgers won 9-4 and Gagne got the save.
By Jeff321
May 29, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
The Braves need to bring up a minor leaguer for left field! Sorry, but I’m not feeling this Norton/Infante platoon action. (Assuming Kotsay is out more often than not.)
By ncgary
May 29, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
Cheap Lamps Made with Aluminum Foil
this is neat
By TJ
May 29, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Campillo just confirmed (tv interview) that the blisters were a problem in staying in longer than 5. According to the tv guys, Bobby says his next start is “questionable” but Campillo feels sure he’ll be okay.
These things can turn into longterm problems… hope the Braves will be cautious with it.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
May 29, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
The Braves need to sweep the Reds. I expect Tommy to be on his game tomorrow night. He hasn’t had to bad outings in a row yet and I don’t expect him to now.
By albanian braves fan
May 29, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
Special preview
is revealing tomorrow’s “your view” poll question:
if tex leaving braves after season, which superhero should braves be signing for first baseman:
a) iron man
b) bat man
c) incredible hulk
d) speed racer
please making sure to vote. can only vote once per hour.
is personally thinking speed racer being excellent leading off. hulk having most power. iron man is having “iron hands” so not so good defensively.
By McFann
May 29, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
Keylargo—
Are you serious? That’s awful! What—are they gonna ask him:
“I here you’ve been bothered by a sore foot. Is this effecting your play at all?”
Good grief…
By FloridaBrave
May 29, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
My thoughts on this series:
-First of all, nice win today. We avoided the sweep and played a solid all-around game today, making the first two losses sting a little bit less.
-The offense obviously let us down this series. Our record on the road dis obviously getting to the players as they were trying to force too many things at the place. We totally abandoned our patient approach at the plate we used against aces such as Harden, Santana, Johnson, and Webb and let some mediocre pitchers get the best of us. We have to win such match-ups as the Hudson vs. Bush game to be a playoff team.
-Campillo’s proven that he’s for real and has locked up the 4th spot in this rotation. He’s got great stuff and tremendous command of it. He changes speeds like a master and doesn’t follow any sort of pattern making hitters extremely uncomfortable up there. Great find by the Braves’ scouting department.
-I think there are a lot of people who owe “Ho-Ho” an apology after the way they berated him after his last start. He was excellent yesterday and deserved the win. You guys need to be more patient with him as ups-and-downs should be expected in the development process of young players.
-Bobby Cox got ripped this series but I don’t fault him for leaving his ace in there in the 8th. I’d rather go down with our ace on the hill. Many acted like that cost us the game but it was our offense leaving a wild Dave Bush off the hook early and Jeff Bennett not looking the runner back at 2nd.
-Bullpen help can’t come at a better time. I still love everyone we got back there but you can’t expect Bennett, Boyer, and Acosta to continue like this. With the big three coming back, if we can take a lead into the 7th or even 6th inning, I’ll really like our chances.
-Some of you complaining about Chipper’s lack of power need to stop. Really. The guy’s batting .420 and leads the team in almost every offensive category. It just looks ridiculous when you do that.
-Some of you have been clamoring for Blanco to be moved up to leadoff. I’m on the fence about it- stats show Escobar and Johnson are better in the 2nd and 7th hole respectively, but putting a rookie at leadoff might be risky. I could go either way though, because mainly, our offenses success will ride upon whether or not Teixeira and Frenchy start playing like they’re capable of playing.
By Daybed Wagmoe
May 29, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
FloridaBrave — thanks for posting that from Jayston Stark’s blog. Good to read that kind of praise for the Braves!
With today’s win, the Braves went to 17-10 for the month of May. The last time they posted at least 17 wins: May of 2006, which was followed by the worst month in Braves history (at least I think). They went 6-21 in June.
Here’s hoping for a much better June in 2008 than ‘06!
By RR
May 29, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
buster onley’s column • Mark Teixeira, who figures to be the most high-profile position player in the free agent market this fall, might get much less than expected because of how the industry is evolving. Will he be well paid? For sure. But officials are convinced that unless the Yankees hand him a blank check, he won’t get anywhere near $200 million, as some have speculated.
“When do deals like that work?” one executive said, rhetorically. “And who could pay him that, if the Yankees don’t? The Mets aren’t going to get involved, after what’s happened with their big-money signings.”
By McFann
May 29, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
I here Mio
Dude…
I hear! I HEAR!
By nolie
May 29, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
So we score 10. give up only 5 and lose 2 out of three. The prototypical 2008 Atlanta Braves away series.
By TennesseePaul
May 29, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this
ncgary: That is pretty cool. Organic thin film semiconductors have a high potential as well in reducing the energy consumption of fabrication to implementation of most any process that uses semiconductors. The films have been made into OLEDs resulting in extremely thin monitors since they require no back light for the images to be visible which an LCD screen requires.
By RR
May 29, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
more from buster
Think about that: C.C. Sabathia available for trade.
But here’s the catch: Sabathia is a free agent at the end of the year, and based on the $137 million contract that Johan Santana signed last winter, Sabathia is poised to take a big leap forward in salary. He’s going to test the market, so if he were to be traded to the Braves, for example, he wouldn’t sign.
The Braves wouldn’t consider trading their best young players so they can bolster their rotation with a Sabathia or a Ben Sheets for the final two months of the season. In fact, the offers for Sabathia would probably be much less than you’d think for someone of his pedigree — probably even less than the value of the two draft picks the Indians would receive if they just kept Sabathia and let him walk away as a free agent.
If the Indians are offered a couple of Grade B prospects for Sabathia, or a second-tier major league offensive player like a Mark Kotsay, would it be worth it for Cleveland? Probably not
By ncgary
May 29, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this
10paul it also is the same process that is being used to make a supercapacitor, if the thin film aluminum foil works in practice like theory electric motors may no longer need lithium batteries to power them, just 2 super caps, in case one fully discharges a backup
By ernesto
May 29, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
albanian braves fan, didn’t you used to live in Uganda?
Welcome back.
By McFann
May 29, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
Don’t mean to be picky, but the headline on ajc.com says “Teixeira drives in 6 in Braves’ Win”. Tex only drove in four. Johnson and Campillo combined for the other four.
This coming from the blogger who just wrote “I here”. Sorry, Ms. Rogers.
; )
By AGTfan
May 29, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
blaine boyer doesn’t pitch the one day and you guys are on bobby, then he does pitch and that’s no good either. and the acosta thing? score does matter. seems there’s some nitpicking going on. Carroll
nitpicking by nitwits
Doesn’t matter what Bobby or any other manager does. These guys are going to complain and they’re going to find a way to make themselves always right. It’s the nature of nitwits. Probably every baseball fan second guesses managers. The nitwits are the ones who actually believe that if only we would all pay attention to them and give them the job, they would do so much better than the HOF manager.
By OverlorDDDay
May 29, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
Jeff321 they might do that as soon as they feel sorianos elbow is not a problem. Remember that our last 3 spots in the rotation can go 3 straight games pitching 15 innings or less, that being said, cox needs an extra arm in the pen. That might change if they show him they can go deeper in the game more frequently. Kotsay might be back in 3 days, so there is no need just yet for a roster move. Its not the best scenario, but it fits the braves right now.
By Carroll Rogers
May 29, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
this from bobby on why he used manny the way he did…
“We really didn’t know what to expect out of Soriano, I wanted to use him in the eighth and back him up with Manny. But boyer got in trouble in seventh and I didn’t want to back Boyer up with Soriano. Because I wanted to give Soriano a chance to have a clean inning without coming in and having to pitch with men on base.”
By Shaun
May 29, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this
Things no good at home? What’s with the persistent sarcastic neg-head comments directed at bloggers?
Just sick of the negativity about this team. Regardless of what anyone says it is still early. The Braves are only 2.5 games out. No one within baseball thinks Bobby Cox is a bad manager and not many managers in history have a track record of winning like he has.
There are people on the blog that completely ignore things and act as if the Braves are 5, 6, 7, 10 games out. I’m going to speak against those flat-earthers.
By mr baseball
May 29, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this
Promising news out of Cincy. Belisle has been sent to the minors and Fogg will get the start Saturday. That means 2 rookies (1 of whom is ahead of JJ for Rookie Pitcher of the Year) & a stiff this weekend on the mound for Reds. Volquez is due to have a so-so start and the Braves’ forecast for Saturday & Sunday is runs, runs & more runs.
By FloridaBrave
May 29, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this
RR,
Thanks for posting. Both things you posted relate to each other. More teams out there are going to use the D-Backs, Rays, and Marlins as models for success. There’s going to be more emphasis on development within one’s own system- and in turn, locking up young studs long term before arby- than going out and throwing hundreds of millions of dollars at Free Agents. Free Agency is risky business. It always has been but teams saw it as necessary to be successful. D-Backs, Rays, and Marlins have proven otherwise. With that being sad, the Market will come down as there will be less teams being aggressive in FA and, the teams that are, will be spending less money. Therefore, team’s aren’t going to be getting as much as they have been for guys in the final year before Free Agency, IMO. Obviously, you want to give them more value then the two first rounds pick they’ll receive but not much more. If teams want value for players, they’ll have to trade them before their walk year(i.e. Tex) because only then will teams see it as necessary to give up the needed amount of prospects.
Baseball GM’s have gotten smart and the game has changed for the better in terms of how teams are constructed.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
May 29, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this
Shaun, you are so right. Considering all the injuries, the one run losses, and the unexcusable performace on the road this team is four games over .500 and within 2 or so games of the division lead. That gives reason for hope. And, if Soriano, Gonzo, Smoltz, and Hampton (somewhat rolling my eyes) can come back and contribute this team will rival the Cubs and D-Backs as the best in the NL.
By Braveheart
May 29, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this
This just in: Willie Randolph takes care of his Omar problem
By N8
May 29, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this
That “headline/link” to the game story talking about Tex having 6 RBI is great.
I wonder if when I get home tonight, it will say:
Hampton has 11 K’s in win over Brewers.
Sounds like the PR department is trying to “fast-track” Tex’s hot streak. LOL!
Then again, it’s probably just the same cat that comes up with the poll questions.
If the Braves were to miss the playoffs. How many games would you prefer they miss by?
A) 9.5 Games
B) 5.5 Games
C) 3.5 Games
D) If they do miss the playoffs I hope it’s not by ANY “half” games. That means a game was rained out and not maid up.
By BA
May 29, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
b
By N8
May 29, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this
Carroll
In my rant about the AJC “headlines & polls”, I forgot to mention that the explanation from Cox seems fair enough to me.
Just glad to know he actually had a plan.
By Reid in EAV
May 29, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this
McFann - yeah, I noticed that too. AJC can get first-class beat reporters like Carroll and DOB, but when it comes to little things like, oh, copyediting, apparently trained monkeys are quite sufficient.
By AGTfan
May 29, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
Just sick of the negativity about this team. Shaun
I’m with you. I enjoyed your persistent sarcastic neg-head comments directed at bloggers. I think you made a mistake though.
Some minds will not be eased unless the Braves go 162-0 and sweep every post-season series.
Look at the folks who think Bobby Cox is the worst manager in history.
I think in the event that Braves pulled off a season like that only N8 would still find something to complain about and some of those folks would elevate Bobby Cox to the second worse manager in history.
By Austin
May 29, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this
N8
That 5:59 post was hilarious man.
By monty
May 29, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this
I’m all for Chipper busting.400 however I don’t want to see him become a singles hitter in order to do it. His power has dropped off as of late, personally I think the Braves would be better served if he hit.340+ with 35-40 HR’s and 120-130 RBI’s than if he hits .400 with 1/4 less production in HR’s and RBI’s. To hit .400 would definitely cause a buzz to say the least, just keep up the good power numbers!
By OverlorDDDay
May 29, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this
.
By McFann
May 29, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this
Reid—
Apparently. (Ms. Rogers, you and DOB do a fine job! ; ) )
By N8
May 29, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this
AGTfan
Do you REALLY think that I would still complain during a 162-0 season?
Besides, I’ve NEVER said that Bobby is the worst manager in history. Hell, he’s not even the worst manager in the NL East THIS YEAR!
Just don’t like some of the decisions he’s made, and think that MANY managers could have won a few division titles in the 90’s with that HOF trio of pitchers in the rotation.
Along with a HOF 3B, HOF CF, and some other VERY GOOD ALL-STAR players at various positions.
All this team has to do is play .500 ball on the road, win most series at home, and do the little things that will show me this team is capable of winning post-season series, and I’ll simmer down.
Until then, when the desire is there….I’ll complain when I see fit.
It’s really that simple. But thanks for thinking of me. I appreciate that I’m on people’s minds.
By Carroll Rogers
May 29, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this
We fixed the headline right? I don’t see it…
Thanks, Braveheart. Bravesfan, don’t know where you’re hearing that about Kotsay, but it’s news to me. Far as I know, from talking to bobby today and seeing Kotsay happy and cracking jokes at his locker after the game, he’s still day-to-day. And getting better each day.
Wouldn’t you know I can’t get out of Milwaukee tonight, so it’ll be hopefully a nice dinner and lots of sleep.
See you kids in a bit.
By N8
May 29, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
Monty
Your 6:14 post could have some truth to it (about rather having Chipper hit .340 with more “power” numbers), if Tex and Jeff don’t explode pretty soon (it appears Tex may be on the verge of doing so).
But IF Tex and Francoeur get going, along with what McCann has been doing, I have ZERO problem with Chipper being on base as often as he has been, and then when needing to, finding the power stroke (as he has been), to knock in runners ahead of him.
Besides, he’s 12th in majors with 12 HR, and as far as the “drop” in doubles goes, do you WANT him to have re-occurring issues with the groin by going for hustle doubles (which he certainly does when he’s healthy)??
If this team had a list of 100 “issues”, Chipper would be somewhere around issue #245.
Even “Mr. Negative” can see that.
By McFann
May 29, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this
Yeah, Ms. Rogers, it’s fixed.
Thank you. Hope we didn’t cause any trouble. Guess I was a little “nitpicky”.
; ) Later!
By Braveheart
May 29, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this
Would people find something to complain about if the Braves were 162-0? I don’t think so. Just look at Chipper. He’s hitting well over .400 and there are no idiots complaining about a lack of power.
So stupid to hear this lack of power thing about Chipper. The guy is on pace to hit alot of homers. Have his homers declined lately? Yeah. It could just be a streaky thing or it could just be that Chipper is being pitched differently.
Chipper is like Tom Brady. If you are gonna take away Wes Welker, he’s gonna Randy Moss you to death. If you take Randy Moss away from him, he is just gonna Wes Welker you to death. If you are gonna give him Wes Welker and Randy Moss, he will Wes Welker AND Randy Moss you to death.
Right now, pitchers are walking Chipper and not otherwise pitching him much of anything to drive deep, so Chipper is pulling a Tom Brady and Wes Welkering them to death. When they try to stop Chipper from Wes Welkering them, Chipper will again pull a Tom Brady and kill them deep by Randy Mossing them to death.
Chipper is not consciously trying to hit singles. If you are a Braves fan, you know that, over the last few years, Chipper has become even more fundamentally sound and balanced in his approach then ever. He has always taken what the pitchers give him and gone with the pitch. He is now however doing it more than ever.
In the past, Chipper, feeling the pressure of being the man, would sometimes fall prone to doing the baseball equivalent of Brett Favre forcing things into double coverage. Chipper would, from time to time when the situation warranted it, try to jerk things or pull things to create some offense and force the action like Favre does. Now, Chipper has reached the maturity level and feels he has enough protection from Tex that he is content to just bleed you with stuff underneath or burn you deep depending upon what coverage the pitchers and the defense give him.
For now, the defenses are getting enough pressure on Chipper without blitzing him because his big ole left tackle Mark Teixeira is not adequately protecting Chipper from the a simple pass rush from the defensive ends. Because Tex ain’t being the big ole nasty left tackle he is supposed to be, the opposing defensive coordinators are able to get the pass rush they need without designed blitzes and are therefore able to keep enough men deep to protect against the Chipper bomb.
Chipper therefore has just had to be content doing the baseball equivalent of screen passing the opponent to death: walks and singles. Once Tex starts acting like Anthony Munoz and starts being a nasty left tackle again, the defensive coordinators will have to get overly aggressive with Chipper by blitzing him in order to get the needed pressure. This will leave them vulnerable to Chipper once again bleeding them with walks and singles or beating them deep again with bombs depending upon what opportunity is best on each pitch. Once Tex starts acting like a left tackle again, Chipper will be lofting bombs left and right to the end zone again. Count on that.
It’s silly anyway for anyone to think Chipper’s best way to hit .400 is to stop hitting homers. Chipper’s best chance to hit .400 is to hit lots of homers. More homers means his chances of hitting .400 are more in his control and less in the control of the defense. There’s only so long that Chipper can defy the odds on balls put into play. He knows that. The opponents know that. That’s why they’re not giving him anything he can drive right now. If Tex makes them afraid again, that will change.
By FloridaBrave
May 29, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this
Thank you, N8. Chipper’s power is fine. He’s had a stretch where he hasn’t hit for power but that doesn’t mean his power is down- at least not to the point where it’s worth complaining about(He’s hitting .420 we should be worshiping him but I digress), He’s still on pace for his traditional 30-35 home runs and 100 RBIs so I don’t get it. If you’re going to complain, at least complain about something that could-by some stretch of imagination- be considered a “problem.”
By richbrave
May 29, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this
DOWN ON THE FARM
PITCHING:
After two consecutive so-so outings CHARLIE MORTON tries to break out with an upbeat performance tonight.
VLADIMER NUNEZ steady in relief if not spectacular-yet.
JONOTHAN ROUWENHORST and FRANCISELY BUENO being bombed regularly now. Need to change things the second time through the league.
HITTING??:
BARBARO CANIZARES keeps hitting (now .322).
DIORY HERNANDEZ has done great so far filling in for BRENT LiLLIBRIDGE posting a .332 average with 116 AB.
BRENT LiLLIBRIDGE BTW is Ba-a-ac-ck. His average now above the Mendoza Line at .215.
JOSH ANDERSON’s average begins to rebound since he’s surpassed 200 AB’s (206). Now averaging .282.
CLINT Sammons’ average continues a downward spiral.
BRANDON JONES tailing off again after a strong rebound in his hitting.
More later.
By Salty
May 29, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this
Braveheart: Nice post…your latest. Gotta say, I’m amused. You listen to pundits talk about the economy, or the stock market, and they use baseball; we’re in the 4th inning of a recovery, etc. So…it cracks me up that you use football to explain baseball, and Chipper! LOL! How ironic?
By AGTFan
May 29, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this
Do you REALLY think that I would still complain during a 162-0 season? N8
LOL. Do you REALLY think you could go an entire season without finding something to complain about? I was of course MOSTLY kidding. If you were all brightness and light we’d ll believe there was an impostor pretending to be N8. I wasn’t referring to you when I talked about BC. But….
Just don’t like some of the decisions he’s made, Me either. I doubt the most ardent BC supporter likes every decision BC has made in the course of his career. I bet BC doesn’t like every decision he’s ever made.. As for all the HOFers, 2 of the pitchers were just promising rookies when BC’s run of successes with the Braves started and the HOF position players weren’t even on the team. He took the 4 of them and nurtured them through the beginnings and best years of their careers. I’m willing to bet that when all 5 of the players we’re talking about go into the HOF, they will give some thanks to BC.
By JUsto
May 29, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this
BRAVES FANS U ALL NEED TO TUNE INTO WCCPFM.COM AN CLICK ON THE LISTEN LIVE BUTTON FROM 3PM-5PM THERE IS A RADIO HOST OWN THERE NAME WALT DEPTULA WHO JUST TALKS CRAP ABOUT THE BRAVES EVERYDAY SO LISTEN TO THIS BULL CRAP THIS GUY SPITS OUT ABOUT THE BRAVES, DOB AND CARROL U LISTEN TO
By ernesto
May 29, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
Milwaukee station interviewing Chipper last night on why his power numbers are so much bigger left handed than right.
Chipper - I can hit the ball just as far either side, but at the end of the game Managers usually like to turn me around and with guys on base and the game on the line I just go for hits to get guys in versus trying to knock it out.
I’m paraphrasing obviously, but seeing Chipper hit what the pitchers are giving him versus trying to jack everything he sees to inflate his HR numbers (Druw anyone???) would make him way less valuable.
Chippers having a magic season so far. Enjoy the ride.
By eric the elder
May 29, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this
Shaun, I read your posts religiously because I usually come away feeling that I learned something.
However, when you haven’t persuaded me about something or I simply disagree, I don’t feel obliged to make a big issue out of it. The whole point of a blog is to express opinions, complain, rant, praise, and be grumpy. The blog is what it is.
I don’t believe I can recall a time when you have publicly agreed with someone. Your posts always seem to disagree - - but that’s okay, too, especially because you are civil about it.
That said, I have to agree with 10Paul regarding your flurry of earlier posts. I thought it was beneath you to be so derisive and to ridicule other bloggers as you did.
We can argue without being argumentative, and we can disagree without being disagreeable. Your wildly exaggerated vents just didn’t seem in keeping from a blogger I respect.
Even so, I can make allowances for your frustrations, especially if I can feel that you are willing to make the same allowances for the frustrations of others.
By BA
May 29, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this
Nice work Braveheart, the whole Welker thing. My question is, do they call up an outfielder? Brandon Jones? Maybe Anderson? BORCHARD?! Something’s got to give. I like the Ugly Stick, but he doesn’t start in left and bat fifth on a playoff team, does he? Where would we be without Infante…
By Kev
May 29, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
Smoltz rehab at Rome:
2 IP,1 Hit,0 BB,3 Strikeouts
By BA
May 29, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this
Are they going to call up an outfielder? Jones or Anderson?
By BA
May 29, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this
Geez, sorry guys. I didn’t think the first post took.
By BA
May 29, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this
Geez, sorry guys. I didn’t think the first post took.
By BA
May 29, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this
Geez, sorry guys. I didn’t think the first post took.
By Jeff321
May 29, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
“Are they going to call up an outfielder? Jones or Anderson?”
http://tinyurl.com/5fm2bd
“Diaz to miss four to six weeks Blanco, Norton, Infante to split time in left field in his absence”
I like Blanco but the others aren’t that good at defense.. And I guarantee we’ll lose some games because they falter.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 29, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
Folks,
One FA outfielder still out there is Reggie Sanders. Yeah, he didn’t quite live up to expectations when in ATL nearly a decade ago, but could he still help the team?
His career stats are close to thsoe of one Matt Diaz. He probably still plays the outfield better than Diaz ever hoped to. And he’s had very productive seasons two of the past three years.
Just a thought about a low cost acquisition …
By BA
May 29, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
I had my fill of the Reggie Sanders experience. No more old guys. I’m leaning toward Blanchard for the power. Infante is great defensively, but with Prado out, you probably need Infante to play the Betemit role, kind of like Yunel last year. I’m intrigued by Anderson, but ‘ole RichBraves reports lead me to believe he might not be ready. Plus he’s basically the same type player as Blanco.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 29, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
Agree with Jeff321 that they need to add an OF, either by trade, signing or callup. Unless Z-man is fully healthy, Norton will see a lot of action in the field and I’m not sure that’s a good thing.
By cabravesfan
May 29, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this
Sounds like Smoltz is ready- any chance they activate him before tehy get home?
By T to the D
May 29, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this
Dig the uni combo, don’t wash till back home…A sunday promo for the club might be ” Watch us burn the Sunday Uni’s”. They might be popular and sell, but sweet Jesus they’re sacrilige of the first order!
By McFann
May 29, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
If this team had a list of 100 “issues”, Chipper would be somewhere around issue #245. Neight
Great line!
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
May 29, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this
braveheart
That’s a good comparison. I wish I had phrased my post last night a little better as I really don’t think that chipper has given up his power stroke. I do believe that he is going the slap hitter route more often b/c of the way he is being pitched, which is smart.
Just like in football you take what they give you. My first pro hitting coach used a similar statement when he had the batting practice pitchers throw us everything outside or breaking away. Go with it or make an out — your choice.
By Jeff321
May 29, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
I’d rather see someone from Richmond in the Braves outfield..
Wow the Mets are up 6-0 on Brad Penny.. although he doesn’t seem to be pitching very well this year for some reason.
By ernesto
May 29, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this
Jeff321 - Infante’s D hasn’t impressed you? I’d say he’s an upgrade, from what I’ve seen, over Matty’s D.
By BravesFanChris23
May 29, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
Braveheart
Fantastic post at 7:02pm. I love that analogy as I am a fan of both Braves and Patriots.
By T to the D
May 29, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
Anyone other than me pick up on the difinitive C. Jones swagger?
Not this year but from day one, an interview might sound like this: “He’s got good stuff, um, lucky to get a piece of one, um…with the count in my favor you have to make ‘em pay.
NOTE: He doesn’t say hit the ball hard somewhere, he’ll say 9 times out of 10, listen to his interviews…He expects to MAKE THEM PAY. MONEY WORDS FROM A MONEY HOF’R.
By keylargo
May 29, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this
BA
Joe Borchard is out for the year with an elbow injury. I was also surprised to see Chuck James is on the DL in Richmond. I haven’t heard any details about that.
http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?t=t_ros&cid=431
By Jeff321
May 29, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
ernesto:
Infante has made a few good plays out there, but I prefer a dedicated outfielder. With that said, I should’ve just singled out Norton. Btw, I DO like Norton on the team as a pinch hitter.
By BA
May 29, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
Too bad for Borchard, Key. He was raking in the spring.
By T to the D
May 29, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
Carroll please to it that the Sunday uni’s are burned. Stat.
By cabravesfan
May 29, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
keylargo-
apparently Chuck James strained a back muscle down in Richmond…
By cabravesfan
May 29, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
and to Jeff321-
not sure where you are located or how much info you get on the dodgers-but here in L.A. we get an overdose- and Penny hasn’t been reliable at all this season…don’t count on him to help the braves out at all
By JC FROM UT
May 29, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
Any word on either Resop or Pena? Has any other team shown any interest or will they both be waived?
By macdwolfpack
May 29, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
When is DOB coming back this thread is dead. I miss DOB presence on here.
By FloridaBrave
May 29, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
Close the book on Charlie Morton:
7 IP 4 H 0 R 0 ER 2 BB 7 SO 1.91 ERA
..and is in line for the win.
$$$
By Yars
May 29, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
richbrave….I think all of us appreciate your, ‘down on the farm’ updates. Thanks again man.
By keylargo
May 29, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
JC
I don’t know anything official but a guy who throws 96+ and a switch hitting catcher would seem likely to draw interst from somewhere. And I’m sure if not traded, some team will pick them up on waivers. Very unlikely to clear waivers and be able to be sent to minors.
And thank you cabravesfan for the update on Chuckie.
By richbrave
May 29, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
DOWN ON THE FARM
CHARLIE MORTON was on top of his game tonight dominating in 7.0 IP with 4 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 2 BB, 7 SO against the second best hitting club in the International League (.270 club average), the SYRACUSE CHIEFS. Lots of fly ball outs early, but with a man on second and one gone in the 4th, its a double play grounder to DIORYS HERNANDEZ at 2nd to SCOTT THORMAN at 1st to end the inning.
THORMAN BTW gives MORTON the only run he needs to get on top and stay there. A HR in the 2nd.
There was no doubt who was in charge in this game. Now lets hope the pen doesn’t give it away.
By keylargo
May 29, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
cabravesfan
We get all the Dodger news we need from TJ Simers! 8)
By 3trees
May 29, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
ernesto - that’s what I was thinking (hoping)
ncgary - cool article, that’s what I’m talking about.
Braveheart (William Wallace) - Good stuff.
Richbrave - thanks for the farm notices.
Of course, thanks to Carrol too, get some zzzz’s
Go Braves! Good luck in Chin-Ci-Natty
By Ted [Ice Man] Williams
May 29, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
I miss a gal from a dream I had last night.
By cabravesfan
May 29, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
keylargo-
TJ Simers is an a*****- take anything he says with a huge grain of salt…
By richbrave
May 29, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
YARS:
My pleasure man. I think info from the farm system gives all of us a more balanced perspective of the present and the immediate future for our BRAVES. BTW MISSISSIPPI fans, MYRTLE fans, ROME fans, DANVILLE fans. Join in. Mo’ better.
By cabravesfan
May 29, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
and yes- that comment about TJ Simmers is from personal experience…
By bravesfan
May 29, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
Ok, Carroll. I didn’t think that was right, but I was just making sure.
By Yars
May 29, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Hell man we all knew Chuck James wasn’t the answer for a #4/#5 starting pitcher. Wren is gonna have to trade for a above average SP before the trade deadline. I don’t think Maddux will see the light of day in a Braves uniform again. As for the NL East, man these Fish are for real. They are a serious team. Is the NL East now a 4 team race? Holy hit! It looks like the Fish will be in south FL for a long time. Didn’t that stadium deal become a reality recently? Frenchy, Tex, LF situation have to step it up. Chipper can’t carry entire team all season. KJ is one of the most exciting players to watch in MLB, while at bat. I like seeing him in the #2 hole in Kotsay’s absence. now playing: *twentieth century fox by the doors.
By keylargo
May 29, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
RichBrave
Can you give the details of CJ going on the DL?
By AGTFan
May 29, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this
Hey N8,
I forgot to mention in my earlier response that I usually enjoy your rants and sometimes negative posts. For some reason your negative posts(almost) never seem to irritate me like some of the other negative posts. Unfortunately, I also seem to enjoy teasing you. I think it’s because I believe you can take it as well as you dish it out. I’m a cranky old man who suffers from chronic migraines and sometimes I express my frustration with some of the posters here. Heck, sometimes I probably mean to be offensive to some of them, BUT I never mean any offense to you.
Peace man.
BTW - I bet that in the course of 162-0 season I would find something to complain about, if only an umpire.
By brent a.
May 29, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
“Even the best hitters in baseball, fail 70% of the time”
Looking at Chipper’s stats tonight reminded me of just how much of a misnomer that baseball-ism is.
Chipper has an OBP of .500. To me, that says that he has been successful, AT LEAST 50% of the time this year. 50% of the his trips to the plate this season, he has reached base, and that does not even take into consideration any “productive” outs he has had, such as moving a runner-over with a ground-out, etc.
I realize that Chipper is having an epic season to this point; however, it is not wholly unlike similar seasons that superstars such as Barry Bonds have put up in recent years, with a high BA, high OBP, high OPS, etc.
Anyway, just a thought.
Go Braves!
By bravesfan
May 29, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
Smoltz expects to be activated on Monday.
(http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080529&contentid=2795215&vkey=newsatl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl)
By richbrave
May 29, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
keylargo:
Sorry man. Beyond the provenance of my hearing or seeing. R-Braves is my beat. DAMM, CJ - as in CHIP JONES - right? Oh crap. He’s not DL’d.?? Plue-e-ez-ze no. Say it ain’t so joe.!!!!
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
May 29, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
hey Braveheart
Here’s a perspective that you might find interesting.
Much as with the screen pass and short routes of football, putting together a string of singles/doubles in baseball will keep the pressure level higher on the defense than to say a 3 run homer.
Now granted, a 3run jack is runs on the board but it also resets the defense to a no runners position. You also require the pitcher to work harder with runners on than without. That being said - Chipper putting the ball in play with RISP is still just as effective as a homerun in some situations if it increases the pressure of the inning/game.
My HS coach brought in a college instructor my senior yr and he gave us a good analogy - Attn N8
He said a scoring opportunity is like blowing a bubble with bubblegum. You can blow hard and fast and it will make a bubble that will pop quick but you can’t be sure how big it will be. Or you can use patience and technique - even take a few breaths thru your nose - and the same piece of gum will blow a HUGE bubble.
Somebody should share that with Frenchy.
By richbrave
May 29, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
brent a.
And without any court appearances, or a hint of impropriety.
By Wayne in Utah
May 29, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
richbrave What was Lillibridge’s ailment? Thanks in advance.
By keylargo
May 29, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
RichBrave
NO NO I am sorry to scare you!
I was talking about Richmond’s Chuck James. Nothing (NEW) is wrong with Chipper. I should know better.
What I was asking is that I saw on the Richmond roster that Chuck James was on the DL, but I could not find out what was wrong with him. cabravesfan said he had pulled a back muscle but knew nothing further.
Again, I am sorry for any confusion. I did not think before I typed.
By Randy S
May 29, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
Interview/footage of Smoltz tonight about to air on the ATL local Fox station (ch 4 for me), WAGA.
By FloridaBrave
May 29, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
Good night for some of our best pitching prospects:
Charlie Morton(W): 7 IP 4 H 0 R 0 ER 2 BB 7 K 1.91 ERA
Tommy Hanson(W?): 6 IP 3 H 1 R 1 ER 1 BB 6 SO 5.85 ERA
Deunte Heath(W): 6 IP 10 H 3 R 3 ER 1 BB 3 SO 3.60 ERA
Jeff Locke(L): 7 IP 9 H 3 R 3 ER 1 BB 6 SO 4.76 ERA
By bravesfan
May 29, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
Gonzalez 1 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 0 SO
2 ground out-1 fly out
By tj
May 29, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
There was more to the Norton feelings about the road record on atlantabraves.com that I’m sure Carrol didn’t have room or time for. I’ll copy and paste it for those that didn’t read it.
Through his experiences, Norton has come to believe that the best way to put an end to these kinds of inconsistencies on the road is to simply not talk about it.
While the media has provided plenty of questions, Norton says he hasn’t heard any of his Braves teammates talking about their road woes.
“This is a great team for that,” Norton said. “There are a lot of professionals and a lot of guys who have been in the playoffs. There’s just a lot of experience here.”
By michigan jeff
May 29, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
Not sure if this has already been talked about.
What about trading soriano (if he comes back throwing bullets) once smoltz takes over the closer role? Of course this would all be contingent on Smoltz coming back healthy as well as someone being willing to give us a GREAT young pitcher in return. It would also clear up some salary for next year. what is everybody’s thought?
By Lee in S. GA
May 29, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
Richbrave
I too enjoy your info about the Braves farm team. Been missing your updates on Chop Chicks blog lately.
By bravesfan
May 29, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Randy S Unfortunately I am not in the ATL area, so can you let me know what is said?
By Efrim
May 29, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
Michigan Jeff
Not sure what you can get for Soriano. He is owed 6 million next year and is an injury risk, even if he does come back and look dominant. But yes, baiting a team like the Yankees and trading for someone like Phil Huges would be genious. Of course, that’s only if Hank Steinbrenner is running that organization.
By jukeandjive
May 29, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
Michigan Jeff
I agree with the Soriano deal. Trade him while he’s healthy. The Rays just put Percival on the 15 day DL. Who knows, maybe we could work something out for one their outfielders.
By Randy S
May 29, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
It ended up being a pretty small snippet from his press conference. He threw 27 pitches, 17 strikes. He said that his arm was definitely going to be sore tomorrow. He said that closing would be best for him because he wouldn’t have to get up and down so much (as compared to another relief role); that however his role evolves, what’s best for him is throwing fewer pitches. They also showed a shot of Wren in the stands in Rome.
By Kev
May 29, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this
michigan jeff
IMHO…in one word NO!!…having pitching and bullpen help is NEVER Enough…you know Smoltz is not 100% and you cant pitch him in back to back days…thas why you have Soriano and Gonzalez..pitching them in Save situations when Smoltz cant…
By Philliesuk
May 29, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
Obviously a great game today. Campillo is the man.
I’m going to put in my vote to move KJ down in the order. I think he’s better suited to be a #6 or #7. I know a lot of people have already voted for this, but my two cents: Blanco Escobar Jones Teixeira McCann Johnson Francoeur Kotsay
The bullpen is about to be sick. The good kind of sick, finally.
By Efrim
May 29, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
Check out Freddie Freeman’s numbers at Rome as an 18 year old like Heyward. 299/340/510. Not bad at all when the kid should of probably started at Danville.
By richbrave
May 29, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
Lee in S. Ga.:
Been finishing my thesis for my M.A. so a little lax about the updates. But its approved and I get to hang a sheepskin. Anybody interested in a History professor, aged 65 come Saturday?
keylargo:
Sorry man. Just caught up with all the posts and realized you were talking about CHUCK JAMES. I read the line in the paper every day. NADA re: CHUCK. But I really have been off my feed for the past three weeks as you can tell by the posts. Actually, I haven’t heard anything at this point about him, but I’ll call somebody who knows GUY HANSON and get back to you.
By bravesfan
May 29, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Randy S.
By jukeandjive
May 29, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
How about a Soriano, Ring, Gorkys, and CHUCK for Phil Hughes
By richbrave
May 29, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this
Wayne in Utah:
Trying to remember from several weeks back re: BRENT LiLLIBRIDGE. Hamstring is what I remember. My source is in bed, past 11:00 p.m. Post you up tomorrow morning.
By jukeandjive
May 29, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this
Blanco reminds me of Juan Pierre in his hay day. Not as good of a hitter yet, but has the potential to hit .300 and OPS of .400. He should definitely get a shot at leadoff.
By richbrave
May 29, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
CHUCK JAMES ON 7-Day BACK SPASMS. I looked up his status and it jogged my memory. Since CHIP and MARK have the same ailment, I completely forgot CHUCK has joined the Atlanta duo on what was a short list.
By THB
May 29, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
Efrim-I’ve been thinking the same thing about Freddie Freeman. I’ve been interested in him since I saw he was racking up the RBI’s. He’s got 38 RBI already! And I think 19 2B with 7 HR, hitting .299 and an OBP around .340. Pretty solid year, hitting cleanup behing Herward and playing 1B. It would be a nice little combo for them to move up to Myrtle Beach next year, if not this year.
By the way, I read on MLBTradeRumors that the Braves are not very likely to trade for Maddux or any one year acquisition, because they’re looking for a young guy they can have for multiple years. That sounds like something is in the works…what might it be?
By N8
May 29, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
AGTFan
“LOL. Do you REALLY think you could go an entire season without finding something to complain about?”
Oh, I would complain. I just wouldn’t be consistently chomping on my bowl of sad (as DOB likes to put it), but I’ll always “nit-pick”, it’s my nature. But one doesn’t have to be mad or angry to nitpick.
“I was of course MOSTLY kidding. If you were all brightness and light we’d ll believe there was an impostor pretending to be N8.”
I know you were. Yeah, every now and then, when I attempt to be “happier” and more pleasant, I feel like that’s not me. LOL!
As for the Bobby Cox stuff. I know what he’s meant in the past and present to the players. I think he did a HELLUVA job as the GM, building this team. JS added some nice pieces along the way (don’t get me wrong), but Bobby deserves WAY MORE of the credit for building this team than JS does.
JS had the young nucleus in place already when he took over, and always (until the last couple of years), had Ted’s checkbook to take advantage of the opportunities to trade for and sign guys that were out there.
In fact, I think JS’s fines GM moves came AFTER Ted’s money was gone.
Mock me (and him) all you want, but with the budget restraints, trading for Hampton, JD Drew, Sheffield, Renteria, Ortiz and Hudson, along with signing guys like Byrd and Wright were GREAT moves for a team hampered by already big contracts on the roster and a shrinking budget.
I would hope that the guys that go into the HOF with an A on their cap would thank Bobby Cox. He’s done a wonderful job over the years.
But that doesn’t mean that as a fan, I’m not within my right to complain about him either. I like Chipper too. But if he was sucking it up this year, you better believe that I’d be ragging on him. As he more than likely, would expect the fans to.
With Bobby, so many people want to give him ALL the credit because he has been the one constant (other than Smoltz), yet at the same time with the ever-changing rosters and lineups, why doesn’t he shoulder some of the blame for the play-off failures? After all, he’s the one constant. Well….other than Smoltz, but anybody that blames him for any of the play-off failures (though I remember him struggling against the Marlins in 97), is just ignorant, based on his personal numbers and results in the post-season.
Short point LONG? I don’t despise Cox. I’m not like Robert. I on occasion think that the nose-picking and “hee-haw” jokes are funny. But in general, I like and respect Cox.
The same way that I did Marty Shottenheimer in the 90’s for my Chiefs and Dick Vermeil in the early 2000’s. But there comes a time when a new philosophy and (or) direction MIGHT NOT be a bad thing.
Of course, I realize that there is a possibility that it ALL falls apart when he leaves and I might be left saying…”Dang! I wish Bobby Cox was still here.”.
But too many people DON’T have an open enough mind to realize that the opposite might be true as well.
I know football is different. But Joe Gibbs IS ALREADY IN the football HOF as a coach. Yet since his “return” to coaching, his Redskins are 30-34 and have gone 1-2 in the playoffs.
Does that mean that he’s NOT as good of a coach as he used to be? Does it mean he is out of touch with the speed/style of play being used today? Does that mean he doesn’t have as good of players in the past (which might mean he’s not as good as evaluating talent anymore)?
All fair questions. But either way, he’s STILL a HOF coach based ON HIS PAST.
Bobby Cox is not doubt going into the HOF some day, and deservedly so. But his teams have failed to make the playoffs the past two seasons, and if the Braves play on the road doesn’t change soon, they might not make it this year. Say they don’t, and don’t NEXT YEAR?
Does Bobby still get in the HOF? Of course he does.
My point, is just because the guy is a HOF manager, doesn’t mean he’s necessarily the RIGHT guy for this group of players. No matter what those players say.
This time I truly AM sorry for such a long post. But that’s as close to reality, of how I feel about Bobby. No BS. Just layin’ it out there.
Caveman
That’s a great analogy. Loved it. Quick and to the point.
By richbrave
May 29, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
WAYNE IN UTAH:
Bad bone bruise to his right heel. Foul tip.
By Deep Throat
May 29, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
Words cannot describe just how completely awful Corky Miller is. This team’s weird fascination with him needs to get. Getting rid of Brayan Pena and keeping was a travesty enough, but to keep giving him starts is just cruel.
Bring up Clint Sammons. He’s a (real) great defensive catcher and can actually hit a little.
Pirates’ team member Nyjer Morgan on 4/4/08 after Corky Miller’s defense blew the game for the Atanta Braves:
Link
In the 10th, Morgan led off with a walk against Chris Resop (0-1) and was sacrificed to second. Jason Bay walked, and Morgan alertly went to third when ball four got away from Miller.
“I was anticipating anything in the dirt,” Morgan said. “Resop was throwing a bunch of curveballs and spiking them. I figured Corky Miller isn’t that great of a defensive catcher back there, and I took advantage of it.”
Don’t be fooled. Bad offensive catcher does not automatically mean good defensive catcher. Corky sucks all-around!
By THB
May 29, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
Also-Gorkys Hernandez got his first start back from his hamstring injury. He went 1-4 in the first game of the double header with a double and run scored. He didn’t play in the second game. He’s hitting .306 right now.
By BossLady
May 29, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this
Well, I’m back in town. Just in time for a Braves win.
Chipper is the Best
About time for TEX
Blanco is so promising
Kelly is doing what I expected
Yunel needs to remember he is great
B Mac is as always, TERRIFIC
I don’t want to comment on Francoeur
I love Bobby, but not other coaches
Frank Wren keep on looking, we need pitchers
The Braves will be Okay….
Now, let’s see some baseball!!!
By Real Men
May 29, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this
Dear David at 2:12, I have another question, well actually 2——(1) Ask Chipper if at 80 years old he will start going with an adult name?? (2) Has he forsaken such activities as brushing his teeth, taking a shower, playing with his children, visiting with his wife, picking up morning newspaper, changing his shirt and climbing out of bed lest he do bodily injury to himself??
By TJ
May 29, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
Deep Throat, Corky walked twice today, and hit the ball hard a couple of times (once the unfortunate DP liner that caught Jeff off the bag at 2nd). I thought he played a good game.
Beyond that, he is a solid defensive catcher (though he had a couple of misplays early in the year). And his “catcher era” was 2.72 coming into today (and is lower now). About the best in the NL.
Not saying I wouldn’t like a better bat on days McCann doesn’t go, but I think Corky Miller is just about the least of our problems.
If McCann gets beat up and has to take more time off later in the year, it might make sense to bring Sammons up. But right now, it would be a waste to have him riding the pine 85% of the time.
By Wayne in Utah
May 29, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this
N8 (long time, no chat…my fault)
Agree almost 100% with your BC post. At times I shake my head at some of his moves….
But, the guys strength is being a players manager, who many times gets the most out of what a player can give, due to the supportive and nurturing environment. Not to say he hasn’t gotten pizzed off before too though.
Making a change is such an iffy thing. Like you said, you might be sorry a year later, when it all falls to pieces. We have the same situation in Utah with Jerry Sloan. Old school, and has 1000% of managements’ support to do it his way. Many are calling for a change (yearly), but I will not look forward to the day that Bobby or Jerry “go away” from their coaching/managing jobs.
I am afraid of the ramifications of a change…..
outfield help I am of the opinion that we might need another decent OF, and maybe more than another starting pitcher. Right now, our starting is vulnerable, but we have Morton and maybe Chuckie or Hampton eventually to plug in. Who do we have to plug into the OF?? I am not sure Anderson is much different than Blanco. BUT, if Frenchy and Tex start hitting like they should, maybe Anderson would be enough?
Do you folks think we are looking at a deal for somebody like Arroyo??
By BossLady
May 29, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
By the way, where is DOB? Is he down under? Or vacationing somewhere
I just finished a vacation in Italy wanted to see my husband’s ancestry
The McGreevey trial is being seen worlwide. That is stupid. How can America media think it is so important to telecast a divorce hearing? It is the same, just like my first divorce. Who in the WORLD would be intersted. It was showed in a little Pub on Tuesday.
On the subject of bar-be-que, they cooked fresh fish and seafood over old world pasta. You gotta try a seafood grill with fresh(very fresh) spinach. There is nothing in America that can compare. The fishermen have daily catches delivered to the restaurants and a lady that picks and pulls us vegetables to the door. You have not had a good tomato or any salads that can compare. The garlics (yes garlics many) used in a type of gravy over your seafood and veggies.
I am happy moreover than ever and feel healthier. WEW!! what a change
Gonna try to grill seafood this weekend. Hold on for good results with some of the recipes. By the way they DO sell the recipies and they are not cheap. They thought my husband was relations to Mario B.
What a life, what a world, what a feast.
I wanted to tell DOB, about the grilling and seasonings. They tie all fresh seasonings together cover with olive oil and include them in the grill. They do not use dry
By Real Men
May 30, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this
Dear Wayne in Utah, The only thing you’re going to plug Hampton into is an article entitled—“America: A Beuutiful Country with the subtitle How To Make Millions While Doing Absolutely Nothing Without Being Arrested
By Wayne in Utah
May 30, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this
Boss Lady you got me salivating out here!!!
I planted a small veggie garden this year, although it is going to be hard to tend to with my travel schedule. 4 different types of tomatoes, peppers (many types), squash, zucchini, and cuc’s. I can’t wait till they come in… Fire up the grill Ethel!!!!
By Deep Throat
May 30, 2008 12:24 AM | Link to this
Corky walked twice today, and hit the ball hard a couple of times (once the unfortunate DP liner that caught Jeff off the bag at 2nd). I thought he played a good game.
One of which was intentional.
There is no arguing that Corky Miller is good or bad offensively.
Corky Miller’s line this season: .087/.160/.087
.087 batting average and no extra base hits (for a slugging percentage equal to his batting average). This guy is just terrible at the plate.
And it’s not a small sample size thing either. Miller in his eight-year major league career is a career .188 hitter, with a career .278 OBP and a career .305 slugging percentage.
Right now, according to OPS+, Corky Miller (at -32) is a worse offensive player this season than Tom Glavine, Tim Hudson and Jair Jurrjens.
By TJ
May 30, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this
…and the Braves are 5-2 in his starts. I’m not saying he’s a good hitter. I’m saying it doesn’t matter.
By Wayne in Utah
May 30, 2008 12:34 AM | Link to this
Real Men You might be right, but it’s folks like you who don’t know anything about Mike Hampton that look good now. You think you know MH, but you don’t.
I choose to not count on anything he might contribute, but to hope nonetheless.
Some folks think that if a guy gets hurt a few times, he is always milking the system. Some players might be that way. Most are not. I’ll never convince you, and you’ll not sway me. Let’s just agree to have differing opinions on MH.
Who do we send down/designate when Smoltzie returns? or Gonzo? I know that Stockman is on the short list, but I would prefer to send Buddy C to Richmond, and try to get something for Ring. I like what I have seen in Stockman.
By BravesRGood
May 30, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this
i think some of us need to look around at some of the other teams and realize the Braves are doing pretty good considering some things.
A) payroll keeps us from having All-Stars at EVERY position like some of you act like every team has and should have, it just doesn’t happen
B) baseball is played everyday by these guys, imagine if each player got a big hit every single day… that doesn’t happen either
C) the worst player on the Braves is in fact, VERY good…
D) just because you got a few hits in high school or small division college doesn’t mean you can get even one single little hit in the big leagues, one swinging bunt, one bleeder, one bloop… also, DOESN’T HAPPEN
By Wayne in Utah
May 30, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this
Some guys in Mississippi are showing some decent signs….others well….
Van Pope is doing well lately. We have 2 27 year old outfielders that I know little about, Reid Gorecki and Jason Perry. Both are hitting well, Perry strikes out a bit too much, but has power. The big Hawaiian is picking it up lately, but is striking out once every three times up.
Hanson, Medlen and Redmond seem to be the pitchers of interest.
Any thoughts?
By TennesseePaul
May 30, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this
So the Braves wore the blue cap/greys today and kicked @ss. I hope this sticks. I asked about that earlier this year and it’s here and I like it. I also liked this line from the AP Notes:
Jones joked afterward that one of his favorite bats ”died a hero” after he shattered it on a single in the first to extend his hitting streak to 11 games. ”That’s why I wouldn’t let go of it, I carried it all the way down to first,” he said.
Awesome.
By Wayne in Utah
May 30, 2008 1:01 AM | Link to this
BravesRGood Hold on a minute cowboy. While the Braves are in a good stretch, that sort of talk will be tolerated. BUT, when they hit another bad stretch (if they don’t get 2 out of 3 in Cincy), that kind of positive talk will get you absolutely NOWHERE on this blog. Remember, the point to know is that INSTANT gratification for bloggers is the ultimate goal of many bloggers, and they will not want to hear contrary things like…facts, or ….common sense.
So, be careful there buckaroo!
:-)
By Wayne in Utah
May 30, 2008 1:08 AM | Link to this
BravesRGood Actually, many of our negative nellies on the blog would prefer a manner in which they could critique every pitch.
(first pitch is fouled to the screen) Wow, that Smoltz is great, (second pitch is a bit high and inside) oh no, he really sucks now, (1-1 pitch is a strike at the knees) did I mention what a great pitcher he is, we will probably win it all this year!! (next pitch is in the dirt, and the runner advances) Dang it, let’s just blow up this team and start all over again new next year. Frank Wren sucks, and Bobby is a terrible manager, how could he leave him in there for that wild pitch!!!!.
Get my drift…
Good night!
By nolie
May 30, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this
I see that Petey A-hole finally admitted on the Dan Patrick show that he bet $2000 per game on the Reds whilst managing them.He excuses is by saying that it never changed no matter the pitcher or the line-up. Lying scumbag. Hope the veteran’s committee never votes him in.
By Coach (Braves to the playoffs in 2008)
May 30, 2008 1:37 AM | Link to this
Morning bloggers ! I just wanted to give our scouts a big thumbs up for the work that they have done in recent years.
I’m talking Peter Moylan, Jeff Bennett and now Jorge Campillo. Our Uber-scouts just keep finding arms in places like Mexico, Australia and everywhere else.
Roy Clark and your merry band of men, Great work Fella’s !
By uga-brave
May 30, 2008 2:32 AM | Link to this
wayne,
you still out there old friend?
By BravesRule
May 30, 2008 2:49 AM | Link to this
Those who think I’m way off base, please examine the Braves’ wonderful record in 1-run games. Don’t think there’s a correlation? Think again.MrBaseball
y’all b*** & moan about the line-up and they score 8 runs. Makes you look pretty foolish.
Like the studies have shown, line-up changes don’t make all that much difference. Guys get hot, guys get cold. Anybody who claims that 50 to 100 at bats in a certain slot are indicative of anything is just plain ignorant. The front of the line-up did just fine today and it makes little difference in the long run who bats lead-off or second as long as it’s a reasonable choice, not the pitcher batting clean-up or some such foolish proposal. Bobby could do a better job of going with who is hot in those slots, but that is counter to the way he handles players, which is his strongest asset as a manager.
Bobby’s overall record in one run games over his career isn’t bad. You’re just another second-guessing, armchair wanna-be Gm with a Cox fixation.
By P-Town Brave
May 30, 2008 2:55 AM | Link to this
Outside Options For LF
Jason Bay (5.75M; 7.5M in 09)
Adam Dunn (13M w/ no-trade til 6/15)
Milton Bradley (5.25M)
Matt Holliday (9.5M; 13.5M in 09)
Raul Ibanez (5.5M)
Thoughts?
By P-Town Brave
May 30, 2008 3:04 AM | Link to this
Another interesting scenario was presented:
Chuck James Brent Lillibridge Brandon Jones
for
Rich Harden
If I’m the Braves and the A’s would take the offer, I would jump on this and have the papers and physicals presented in .5 seconds…
Thoughts?
By uga-brave
May 30, 2008 3:22 AM | Link to this
braveheart, N8,
you two guys make this blog somewhat readable.
WW, you defend frenchy the same way you defended chuck.
with all due respect, if him and tex would of put up the power #’s we expected our one run losses would not sting as hard.
we are now at the 33% gate.
i would of thought tex was not on pace to hit 18 dingers.
a third of the games are are booked.
our starting pitching is outstanding.
we have not missed smoltz, hard to believe.
here is my point, in all these one run losses name me one game that tex or the golden boy has changed the game with a dinger. sans today, or saturday.
gotta hunch that tex will step up, but we really need another right handed power hitter.
sorry, scoots i really think you are at the head of DELTA TAU CHI pledge class.
scoots, i think you are probably the most intelligent blogger around, but then again you are a clemson fan.
scoots, i always read your posts.
they always make me smile. at some point your clemson loyaty will pay off. RIGHT?
By Double Deuce
May 30, 2008 3:56 AM | Link to this
I hope everyone in Atlanta appreciates what Chipper Jones is doing right now. I don’t care what happens the rest of the year, but to witness greatness in anything is rare, and what Chipper is doing right now is greatness in baseball. The talk last year was Chipper would have a great year because Tex was hitting behind him. Well Tex isn’t having the year(so far) that we all expected, but Chipper is off the charts. I hope all who watch understand and appreciate greatness. It doesn’t happen that often.
By uga-brave
May 30, 2008 4:03 AM | Link to this
so our starters,
smoltz, glavine, and maduxx, just gave up 3, 1,and 1.
wait that was hudson, reyes, and some guy named camillo.
the former could not have not done better.
somehow we managed to lose two of those games.
this team is good, but for the love of offense we need a power stick in the outfield. but hey our rf. has a . 710 .ops. but he is still young?
By Anymouse
May 30, 2008 4:38 AM | Link to this
P-Town Braves:
According to all the rumor mongers on ESPN and MLBTradeRumors.com, you can have Rich Harden for a mid-level prospect.
Why would you want to way overpay for an injury-prone starter the A’s are low on?
By Moby Grape
May 30, 2008 4:43 AM | Link to this
Right now, according to OPS+, Corky Miller (at -32) is a worse offensive player this season than Tom Glavine, Tim Hudson and Jair Jurrjens.DeepThroat
I’m sure that you’re right, but the difference between him and a normal back-up catcher(who likely won’t hit all that well either) when they play once a week or less is not gonna make or break this team. It’s just not relatively important enough that so many people should get so bent out of shape over it.
Obviously Clint would be better if he had enough experience that sitting him on the bench most of the time wouldn’t hurt him, but he doesn’t & that situation would impede his development in all likelihood.
By Moby Grape
May 30, 2008 4:53 AM | Link to this
…and the Braves are 5-2 in his starts. I’m not saying he’s a good hitter. I’m saying it doesn’t matter.TJ
Bravo! Some folks pick some really trivial stuff to fixate on.
By Deep Throat
May 30, 2008 5:08 AM | Link to this
I’m sure that you’re right, but the difference between him and a normal back-up catcher(who likely won’t hit all that well either)
The Braves had a backup catcher who could hit named Brayan Pena. But they DFAed him and kept Corky Miller.
You two (Moby Grape and TJ) are describing EXACTLY what is wrong with Miller by saying he doesn’t play much so why worry. The thing is, because Corky is so terrible, Cox will use and use and use Brian McCann…who’ll probably be worn out come late August. A decent backup catcher might give McCann one more day off every week-and-a-half or so and help him play better when he is starting.
Also, 5-2 in Corky Miller’s starts is irrelevant because it’s such a small sample size. It’s certainly not Miller at fault for those five wins at all either.
By nolie
May 30, 2008 5:33 AM | Link to this
Outside Options For LF
Jason Bay (5.75M; 7.5M in 09)
Adam Dunn (13M w/ no-trade til 6/15)
Milton Bradley (5.25M)
Matt Holliday (9.5M; 13.5M in 09)
Raul Ibanez (5.5M)
Thoughts?P-TBraves
Bay would be nice but prolly cost a lot in players I would think. Kinda surprised you didn’t include Nady as so many others have.I’d take either if they were reasonable.
Dunne likely too high cost for rental and I don’t see him as the kinda hitter Wren and Cox would want to sign for long term.
Bradley, great upside but IMO has pretty much proven to be too much of a distraction for the Braves to be interested in at all.
Holliday 13.5mil is pushing it for the amount he produces away from Coors .274/.336/.444 is not all that great
Ibanez would be interesting but he is a lefty hitter isn’t he?
good list
By Moby Grape
May 30, 2008 6:13 AM | Link to this
Deep Throat
It’s a fact that already happened not a projection. Most likely the two losses wouldn’t have been helped by a somewhat better hitting back-up. As to playing another a bit more, that might be true but that still doesn’t mean it would make all that much difference.No matter who we had there would be a large drop-off when Brian sat and therefore he’s gonna play a lot. One of the down sides of getting so much offense from your catcher..not that I’m complaing. :-)
Bobby has always wanted defense in his BU catcher and despite the couple of early blunders Corky is a very good catch and throw guy who also has a rep for calling a good game.
The Pena idea just is not relevant. I’ve watched him throughout his minor league career and he is a poor catcher. Not only that but the pitchers do not like to throw to him. Poor pitch-calling skills and poor framing. So the guy was never in the mix as a catcher which was obvious by the way he was handled. And he is even poorer defensively backing up other positions, again he never played an inning that I am aware of in the field. As a hitter his sole strength is batting average, very little power and damn few walks, so a weak average at that.
I’m not saying that a better hitting catcher would not be nice, but there are a lot of things about this team that will affect the record more than a back-up catcher will.
By Greg
May 30, 2008 6:29 AM | Link to this
If we can get Harden for a mid-level prospect, we should do it. The guy is unhittable when healthy.
By TommyP
May 30, 2008 7:22 AM | Link to this
Carroll: Norton did NOT “break in as a left fielder for Colorado.” Norton was a top prospect for the White Sox as a 3rd baseman in the mid-’90s.
Concerning Chipper’s comments: I would have to say that perhaps the reason he isn’t voted in as a starter is because of comments like he just made.
Chipper hasn’t made any of those types of comments in a few years. But who is supposed to feel sorry for him because he hasn’t been voted in? He’s been voted in twice before and has played in numerous games and….he’s…..whining about not being selected recently? He’s frustrated because he hasn’t been voted in since 2001? Wow…. WOW.
By eware
May 30, 2008 7:30 AM | Link to this
RichBrave - thanks for the farm updates. We all really appreciate it.
I can barely contain how excited I am about Morton. He’s going to be fun to watch and root for when he gets here.
By Deep Throat
May 30, 2008 7:34 AM | Link to this
Holliday would be great, and he’d probably end up replacing Teixeira’s bat after he likely walks after this season.
Rockies no-doubt want a boat-load of stuff in return though.
By nolie
May 30, 2008 7:41 AM | Link to this
If we can get Harden for a mid-level prospect, we should do it. The guy is unhittable when healthy.Greg
ain’t gonna happen for a mid-level prospect unless Billy has real reason to start worrying about his health again. Will bring more than that(I think a lot more) in July.
By Some Sense
May 30, 2008 7:41 AM | Link to this
PLEASE let’s don’t take the whole month of June to realize that Blanco, Norton, and Miller can’t play.
By nolie
May 30, 2008 7:46 AM | Link to this
Holliday would be great, and he’d probably end up replacing Teixeira’s bat after he likely walks after this season.DeepThroat
not that great a hitter away from Coors. 13.5 mil is too much for a guy with a .780 OPS away from Coors. Maybe even a tad worse coming to the Ted.
By BravesRule
May 30, 2008 7:53 AM | Link to this
PLEASE let’s don’t take the whole month of June to realize that Blanco, Norton, and Miller can’t play.SomeSense
you should show some yourself. Blanco has given no indication that he can’t play and Norton already won two games for us and is a proven bench guy. Only Corky is a questionable asset
By KneeJerk
May 30, 2008 8:11 AM | Link to this
Mr.baseball: my post followed your initial one on the subject at 2:36
By Shaun
May 30, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this
eric the elder, thanks for the compliment. I don’t think my posts yesterday were personal at all. I think I was sarcastic in some of them and was expressing how ridiculous I thought it was to be down on this team.
I don’t post too many agreeing post because it is fun for me to dig for the truth about things that people seem to be so sure of. For example when someone posts something like, “the Braves stink because they aren’t playing small ball.” I like to dig a little and see if it’s true: a) Do the Braves stink? b) Is there any reason to believe their losses are due to a lack of small ball?
So, that’s where I’m coming from. It’s just what I enjoy and what is natural for me.
By richbrave
May 30, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this
TJ:
The take on SAMMONS. Right on the money. He needs the work, and he’s in a semi-slump right now with the bat. Average .272 before last two nights. I remember him getting hits both nights, so maybe he’s coming around. You can tell he’s good because he RARELY had an 0-fer night until recently. He’s a better hitter than that.
BRUNDIGE has been protecting him in the #6,7 holes all season, taking the pressure off the hitting so he can concentrate on his catching. And his glove is very good. Before my swoon at the beginning of this month, I was keeping track of his errors and passed balls for earned runs(catchers ERA), but I’ve lost track now. From what I’ve seen and heard on the radio, his runners caught stealing is O.K.(30%) but again no stats and just my guess.
Anyway, my take is he still needs seasoning and a call-up in July-August, depending on his bat.
By chrisklob
May 30, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this
Wayne in Utah, I loved both of your posts from around 1 am. Right on the money.
Some Sense, Blanco can’t play? What’s wrong with a .290 BA and a .409 OBP?
And for all you Corky Miller haters, y’all don’t understand his role on this team. Four unsuccessful at bats per week or so are FAR outweighed by his ability to call and receive 125-150 pitches in a game. Ferchristsake, the guy has 30 PA’s all year! It’s kind of tough to get into any kind of rhythm when you’re seeing so few pitches.
Seriously, y’all talk about him like he’s not a productive member of the team. This is NOT Orr or Woodward here. Miller does EXACTLY what he was signed to do. That is provide a reliable defender for those days that Mac has off.
Maybe FW should talk to Detroit about getting Pudge to back Brian up!
By KneeJerk
May 30, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this
Shaun, you can’t dig truth out of opinion.
By Shaun
May 30, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this
nolie, I agree with you on Holliday. Very good player but not worth the money it would take to get him (and the money he’ll probably get).
2005-2007 at Coors: .370/.430/.676
2005-2007 Away: .281/.343/.466
Good road numbers since 2005 but not great. An .809 OPS would have ranked 13th among major league left fielders last season, between Eric Byrnes and Andre Ethier. Does anyone think the 2007 Eric Byrnes or the 2007 Andre Ethier were worth around $15M a season that this article mentions?
By richbrave
May 30, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this
eware:
CHARLIE MORTON is an asset. You are gonna’ love him. His demeanor is stoic. He’s not a wild and crazy guy. But his stuff can be electric.
You should have seen him last night. Whew! Fast-ball strike-outs mid-90’s. Second time around, change-up had hitters groping for a hit or taking strikes flat-footed. Nasty and very effective curve thrown in at the right times, and a good slider once in awhile. This guy’s the real deal. You can tell by the way the organization is handling him.
Physically, he has everything - now.
Mentally, he handles batters well, and is beginning to gain the understanding of how to dominate games.
Emotionally, well there’s the rub. If he quickly grows into the understanding of just how good he really is without the swollen-head syndrome, the young man’s gonna’ be a monster for the Braves for years to come. That’s his personality. And only he can determine how he deals with the realities of baseball.
Thats my take on CHARLIE MORTON and I’m sticking by it. This man is special. I’d take that belief to the bank. Course, I felt the same exact way but in reverse about TOM GLAVINE. Thought with no power game he’d be back in two weeks. So how’s that working out.?
No worries about POWER this time. MORTON’s got it all. And as GLAVINE has proven, its all in your head.
By Shaun
May 30, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this
KneeJerk, some assert their opinions as if they were truth.
“Bobby Cox is the reason the Braves won only one World Series.”
“Bobby Cox is the reason the Braves keep losing one-run games.”
“The Braves don’t play enough small ball.”
These don’t seem like statements of opinion. People post stuff like this all the time. And they seem so sure of them yet they can easily be debunked.
By KneeJerk
May 30, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this
Even if I don’t agree with it, it’s opinion. We all have them. You may choose to diagree, but you can’y disprove what is not represented as fact.
By richbrave
May 30, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this
chrisklob:
Exact-a-mundo. CORKY MILLER did a great job handling the staff last year here in Richmond. With a fine understanding of the game within the game and solid defensively, he’s in Atlanta, and Pena’s good bat is gone.
By Some Blogs Have Jokes
May 30, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this
Coach: Hey, Shaun, are you enjoying your vacation?
Shaun: Not so much, Coach — I’ve kinda got this separation anxiety.
Coach: Ahhh — widdle Shawnee’s homesick for work?
Shaun: Not exactly — I’m just worried that as soon as they realize they can get along without me, they’re gonna fire my @$$!!! I mean, what do I do there anyway, besides post on the Braves/MIB blog all day?
By KyleH
May 30, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this
The Braves need to keep their farm system in tact. They have a future down there over the next few year. Jurrjens has already made it to the bigs. Jojo Reyes is making strides in becoming consistently dominant in AAA. Charlie Morton, as richbrave says is the real deal. Since he personally sees him play ill believe him over any internet scouting reports. I also really like Tommy Hanson and Cole Rohrbough. Rohrbough interests me. He is like a young lefty mike mussina. Good fastball(93mph), Decent Slider, above average changeup, and an unhittable knuckle curve. Its just strange to see a kid come up throwing a knuckle curve any more. The pitch is a rarity now. There 5 really good picthers there. And it may only take a few years longer to have them all ready. We also have Shafer and Heyward so yeh the braves farm is pretty good.
By McFann
May 30, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
Corky’s a fine catcher. He doesn’t get enough respect it seems. Apart from that game in which he had two passed balls, he’s an excellent defender.
Off to the Aquarium. Will be back later tonight. Hopefully I cann log on, but if not:
Go Braves!! (And Go McCann!! Time to get back on track…and the bases!!)
By eric the elder
May 30, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this
Shaun: some assert their opinions as if they were truth
That’s true, but it’s mostly blog shorthand.
Assertion of fact: “The Braves don’t play enough small ball.”
Opinion: “I think that the Braves don’t play enough small ball.”
I have less heart burn when I assume that people are expressing opinions. The exception is when those posts are replete with moron, idiot, retard, f-bombs, and worse. At that point, I’m solidly in your camp.
By bravesfan
May 30, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this
Just got my new edition of ChopTalk, and they had a Mark Teixeira article in there. I don’t feel very good about resigning him, after I read this. “People ask why I hired Scott Boras to be my agent. There’s answer number 1. (Organizations) are going to use everything they can against the players, and I’m going to use everything I can against the team, because it is a business. And anyone who doesn’t think so is kidding themselves,” Teixeira said.
What do ya’ll think about this?
By KC
May 30, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this
“Honestly it’s a shame that I’ve got to go out and hit .400 for two months to make an All-Star team” - Chipper Jones
I am really, REALLY glad he said that. It has angered me for a couple years now that Chipper really gets nowhere near the respect he deserves.
What happened last year with David Wright winning the silver slugger, and especially the gold-glove at third… it’s just mind boggling and beyond asinine.
I can guarantee you that if Chipper were hitting a mere .364 (80 points better than David Wright right now)… he wouldn’t be leading the all-star voting.
If he can stay healthy, maybe he’ll finally get his due this year.
By Shaun
May 30, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this
eric the elder, good point. But I will still attempt to refute, if I feel the opinion is incorrectly held. Maybe I come across as more worked up than I really am.
By Anymouse
May 30, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this
Corky like all bad hitting catchers is automatically called a good defender. It’s rubbish.
By ncgary
May 30, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
bc is a baseball genius. no sarcasm intended, thats a given
sure i disagree with his decisions almost daily, but hey thats baseball, if we all did things the same way, yuk…
bc a proven success and given any reasonable proportionate amount of good luck to go along with all the bad luck the last 12 months will translate into world championship
go braves lets put v’s electric pitches into the outfield bleachers over and over and over again
and ps if you dont believe bc is a genius use the internet dictionary and see lol
By DAP
May 30, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
KC It has angered me for a couple years now that Chipper really gets nowhere near the respect he deserves.
i agree with you that he is underrated, but if you are talking about all star selections, i think youre wrong, and i think chipper was wrong. chipper has had some good seasons, but he hasnt deserved to go to the all star game over the guys who have beat him since 2001.
By DAP
May 30, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this
bravesfan about tex’s comments, its not how it should be, but sadly, thats how it is.
By eric the elder
May 30, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
bravesfan, that Tex quote is exactly what prompted to me to post a couple of times about the difficulty that fans must have in warming up to him.
He has never uttered a word about wanting to remain a Brave. Contrast that with life-long Braves Smoltz and Chipper in the same clubhouse, and fans can be forgiven for not caring much about whether he hangs around or not.
Add to that the fact that his performance has not, as yet, matched the rhetoric, and we have a player who has not warmed the hearts of fans.
I do give him credit for being honest, but fans dislike the business side of baseball, and he isn’t likely to get much sympathy from anyone, especially if the Braves have no shot at signing him.
But we are fickle. If he turns into a monster and the Braves win the World Series, all will be forgiven.
By ncscoots
May 30, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this
Lotta love for the pitching troika of Jair, JoJo, and Jorge (who obviously need some kind of “j”-oriented nickname), and rightfully so. But the elephant in the room is that the Braves won’t get a ton of innings from the three. Nor should they. Asking more than 450 or so innings from them would be tantamount to scheduling the surgery in advance.
And, unfortunately, Glavine has not as yet been able to provide the kind of innings he was signed to produce, as I remember the blog sentiment at his signing.
So, whither innings? Try Buddy and Bennett for some starts? Not that appealing. Trade? The only guy mentioned here that even remotely appeals to me is Daniel Cabrera, and why would the O’s trade him now, when he’s seemingly coming into his own?
Oh, well. Still plenty of time until the trading deadline, and the Braves DO have some BP reinforcements on the way. But that elephant just grabbed a can of peanuts, and looks as if he’s making himself a little too comfortable in the old living room.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
May 30, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
This Braves team has the ability to win and win a lot. They have just got to put it together for more than one week.
By 3trees
May 30, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this
Richbrave - Good Morton/Glavine thoughts, appreciate the perspective and congrats on the MA!
I understand the frustration, but the real important numbers on Corky were listed above (sorry, I forgot who) - the Braves are 5 - 2 when he starts. Don’t throw him under the Woodward/Orr bus.
DOB/Carroll/Someone who knows - Baseball teams do have “strategy sessions” prior to (or during) series, right? To discuss pitching matchups, batters, approach, field dimensions (quirks) who’s hot, who’s not, defensive alignments, etc.. This would include the whole team(?). Or how is it done? To the point, how do the Braves do this?
Thanks
Go Braves!
By Jim
May 30, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this
KC- You are right about Chipper. David Wright doesn’t deserve to hold his jock! Last year’s golden glove was a complete joke.
By ncgary
May 30, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
the 3 jeersketeers
By Adam
May 30, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
Caveman,
Did you say you are still playing ball in the Atlanta area?
By KC
May 30, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
DAP: “I agree with you that he is underrated, but if you are talking about all star selections, i think youre wrong, and i think chipper was wrong. chipper has had some good seasons, but he hasnt deserved to go to the all star game over the guys who have beat him since 2001.”
DAP, I haven’t had time to look up 02-06 yet, but let’s just look at last year.
At the 2007 all-star break:
David Wright: .292, 16 HR, 51 RBI
Chipper Jones: .329, 15 HR, 41 RBI
(And Chipper 83 fewer at-bats than David Wright to that point in the season)
Chipper was hitting 37 points higher, and David Wright had already committed more errors at the all-star break than Chipper committed all season long.
Chipper DID deserve the starting all-star slot at 3B last season.
By Lew
May 30, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
McFann-Careful at the Aquarium. Just because you hold your own here on the blog doesn’t mean you’re ready to swim with the sharks-or this year- with the Rays.
Just to put things in perspective-The Braves’ record puts them only 4 games behind the ML Leader’s (The Cubs) record after over fifty games.
Considering that we’ve had numerous injuries to critical players (almost decimated our pitching staff) and our two biggest RH power hitters (Tex and Frenchy), have yet to really assert themselves offensively, I’m not too sure why so much b!tch!ing about them goes on.
By Shaun
May 30, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this
bravesfan, I think Teixeira is right. Most of us are trying to get the best deals—we would like more pay, we search for things that are on sale. Baseball teams are no different. Baseball players are no different. We are, in fact, kidding ourselves if we don’t think this is the case.
By ncgary
May 30, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this
wander which left hander toronto would be interested in , if a’s harden? maybe we could do a 3 way for frenchy, beane would probably be salivatating for that
if you could basically get marcum from toronto for frenchy to oakland or some other team with a lefty toronto wanted, would it not be worth tolerating barry bonds for a year in left and moving blanco to right and kotsay in center when healthy
maybe toronto deals straight up for frenchy, id do it despite the fact i think frenchy can be a 10 year all star too, we need another hard throwing ace and marcum has that potential
By AdirondackDave
May 30, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
Folks, take a half hour and go vote for Chipper, Mac, etc 25 times. You can be sure Met fans are doing exactly that for Wright. Granted, this voting process is a joke but if you want Chipper and Mac to start the All Star game (as I do) then take a little time to make it happen.
By AdirondackDave
May 30, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this
LEW - - Our Atlanta grandson visited us this past week in Utica and I gave him your Chipper painting and he was absolutely thrilled. That painting has taken my relationship with him to a great new level! Thanks again. Dave
By ncgary
May 30, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this
we may not like him bonds that is but lets say he isnt in jail and in under this admin lying to congress is sop
but we all know tex makes chipper better imagine what bonds could do for mccann following him in the 6th spot
and marcum or another hard throwing good movement and command type pitcher is needed if morton isnt quite ready or smoltz cant start again, and the longer we wait the more strain on the whole staff
By Lee in S. GA
May 30, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this
Unless another outfielder is acquired I don’t think Frenchy will be involved in any sort of trade anytime soon. Granted he has not provided much power this season but with the remaining outfielders the Braves have, there is definitely a lack of power. Josh Anderson or Brandon Jones will not come up and be the answer to this either.
I do think the Braves will hold off attempting to sign Frenchy to a long term deal and perhaps deal him in the next year or two.
By DAP
May 30, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
KC Chipper DID deserve the starting all-star slot at 3B last season.
nope, he didnt. chipper got hurt last year in a freak accident in pitsburg around mid may. he stayed hurt until mid june, and it hard to get all star votes when youve been injury prone for 3 years and miss about a month in the first half.
he put up good numbers, but only in batting average was he better than wright, and he had 100 or more less at bats.
thats tuff luck for chipper, but not unfair.
when you look up the rest of the years in question, 02-06, youll find chipper was injured or outplayed by players at his position.
by the way, theres no one happier than me that chipper is getting all star votes this year.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 30, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
I’m not eager to swap any of our effective pitchers just yet unless it’s for a proven hitter.
Think about this — with Soriano back, Smoltz returning Monday (probably) and Gonzo not far behind, we should have the best and deepest bullpen in baseball.
We could alternate Smoltz and Soriano as closers, saving wear and tear on both. Boyer could set up for one, Gonzo for the other. Or Gonzo could be used as a lefty specialist until he regains his strength and form and Acosta could be the alternating 8th-inning pitcher. Then you’d have Bennett and Ohman to use in the 7th inning or to plug in whenever you need them. If you stick with an 11 man staff, I suppose Acosta or Bennett could go to Richmond, unless again you can use one of them to find a productive everyday hitter for the outfield.
Consider the possibilities … once the offense starts clicking consistently, we could run away with the division. No other team has the Braves’ upside right now.
(My assumption is that Stockman goes down when Smoltz is activated, then Resop and Ring are DFA’d. One of them could slip through to Richmond but I doubt it.)
By Braveheart
May 30, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this
I love that Chipper is still the kind of cornball kid who worries about the Hall of Fame, All Star teams, Gold Gloves, batting titles, All Star teams and his place in the historical ranks of switch hitters and third baseman. Some think that is selfish or whiny or greedy but I don’t think so. To be sure, part of it is that he thinks he deserves his props. But I also think alot of it has to do with Chipper still being that cornball fan he was when he was a kid who still values the meaning of silly things like that. In a day and age when so many players only care about an All Star nod because it means a bonus check or don’t care to the point that they will do anything to avoid showing up at the all star game, he craves it. That’s great and he deserves it. So many players of his stature have been repeatedly put in the game based upon name only. Chipper at least deserves that respect. But, more than that, his performance has been great enough to deserve more nods. Only having 5 all star teams to his name is a crime.
By ncgary
May 30, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
as much as i dislike bonds too, it almost makes too much sense to not offer him a contract
By Lew
May 30, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
Adirondack Dave-You (and your Grandson) are certainly welcome. Aways like to lend a positive hand with family dynamics.
I DID my All Star Voting and wish I could cast another 75 or 100 votes. I voted for Chipper, Mac, Yunel, Kotsay and Kelly Johnson (had to be a bit of a Homer, there, but….).
By Wayne in Utah
May 30, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
ncgary When was the last time potential power source (Frenchy type) was traded for a stong arm? Not saying it hasn’t happened, and I expect some decent examples from the blog. BUT, I don’t think it is the norm. Usually a good arm brings back prospects.
I am not saying we shouldn’t think about it, but it really doesn’t happen much, unless the bat is older, or in decline, or a prospect.
I do like Marcum though….
ncscoots excellent points on the minimum innings by the three “J’s” plus Tommy Terrific. I would sure like the idea of running out Bennett once every 8-10 days or so (or Carlyle, if necessary) once our pen is bolstered.
What would really help is for us to solididy our bench, so we could get away with 13 pitchers, and 12 position players. I don’t like the situation right now, as I think Gotay is the weak link. Also, if Corky had a better stick, it would make it easier to go with 12 bats. (not to be considered a slam on Corky)
Shaun Everything you say in your 10:50 post is true. I once read where a survey was done of successful people (not sports people) Folks were categorized into yearly salary/return on investment groupings. All people were asked “At what yearly income level would you feel comfortable?” Almost every level of income category answered roughly twice what their particular level was. UNTIL, they came to those with about 4 million per year. Those folks stated in general, “I really don’t need any additional income to do the things I want to do.”
Now, that was probably not scientific, but there comes a point when many people of character do not look at max salary that they can squeeze from their employer as their goal. Some examples of those types of guys are Chipper and Smoltz. Tom Glavine (5 years ago) and Tex are on the other side of that fence.
If we were a top market team, then I would be disappointed if we didn’t sign Tex. As it is though, I am happy to let him go for the bucks. I believe that character counts.
I could go out and get a raise of roughly 25-40% more than I make now. I would have to do it for one of my competitors. Not going to happen. I am a company man. I was a company man in 1990, when my previous company cut 25% of it’s work force. I was gone after over 10 years of loyal service. I told myself I would never do that again, but here I am almost 20 years later, and I have done it again. It’s not always about the $$.
Now, I would agree when the money is not enough to sustain reasonable basic functions and some level of entertainment, then throw my theories out the window.
What say ye, my friend?
By John
May 30, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this
Once you’ve reached the 25 max for voting, just take off a letter of your email address until you’ve used up all the letters.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
May 30, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
This entire Bonds thing is very interesting. I, for one, don’t believe it would be the worst thing to do. Bonds would provide better offense than what we are getting now. Signing him wouldn’t cause the team to lose any prospects. Yes,the circus would be in town but if there is one manager who could handle it and not let it be a distraction it is Bobby Cox.
Of course, Hank Aaron would have to sign off on it which at this point is a 50/50 proposition. But, it doesn’t matter because even if Aaron signed off on it JS would never sign Bonds because of the publicity of it.
I have to say I’m surprised that nobody has signed Bonds. He could help a lot of teams right now.
By ncgary
May 30, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
hamilton volquez comes to mind so last winter this spring when did it go down
By OverlorDDDay
May 30, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Has anyone noticed Mark DeRosas numbers? he has become a weapon. .308/.400/.453/4/26. Com pare that to KJs a guy everybody says is a great hitter (not trying to diminish KJ, just to show how good DeRosa is right now). KJ .294/.353/.488/6/25. Just a little bit more pop on KJs bat. I just hope when playoff time comes, he forgets he played for us, cause if not, he we will bury us, THATS A CLASSIC.
By 22oz
May 30, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this
It is really easy to vote, i’ve done my 25 share. Once you cast your ballot, if you click on “vote again”, all you information is saved and your picks are as well. Lets get Chipper and B-mac in there! And Josh Hamilton for the Rangers, its a shame he’s not in the top 3 in the AL. People seem to automatically pick Manny, Ichiro, and Vlad (who’s not doing good at all).
My NL ballot: 1B-Berkman, 2B-Utley, SS- Ramirez, 3B-Chipper, C-McCann. I can’t remember my Of chopices in the NL other than Hermida.
My AL ballot was tougher, partly b/c there’s not many having great years, but it was 1B-Youkalis, 2B-Grudzelanik, SS-Renteria, 3B-Gordon i think, C-don’t remember, but it wasn’t Varitek or Pudge, OF-Hamilton, Ordonez, and the third escapes me. Hey its been a few days!
By ncgary
May 30, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
well not sure of norton status but i doubt it would be too hard getting him to richmond where he could get some at bats , i say offer bonds norton spot sure would help right now with diaz out
By Roman Gal
May 30, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
Didn’t see anyone post this.
schafer could debut in saturday’s game
The second coming of Jordan Schafer, the Atlanta Braves’ top-rated prospect, is tentatively set for Saturday night at Trustmark Park.
Barring a postponement that isn’t made up, Schafer’s 50-game suspension ends after Friday’s game. Atlanta farm director Kurt Kemp said Tuesday that Schafer would be here by Saturday and in uniform, pending his clearance by Major League Baseball.
“If he’s here and he’s eligible, I’m playing him,” M-Braves manager Phillip Wellman said before Tuesday’s game.
Schafer was suspended on April 8 - the day before the M-Braves’ home opener - by MLB for a violation of its minor league drug policy, for the alleged use of human growth hormone.
Under the terms of the suspension, Schafer could not participate in team-related activities with any Braves club in season. Schafer was allowed to attend Atlanta’s extended spring training program in Kissimmee, Fla., which is near Schafer’s Haines City home.
Kemp was in Florida last week and said Schafer had been playing well and should be ready to go as soon as MLB gives the green light.
“He’ll get some batting practice and take infield (at the TeePee) and try to get back into the swing of things as quickly as possible,” Kemp said.
“I’ve heard he’s in shape,” Wellman said. “I’ve heard good things.”
Schafer, 21, a 6-foot-1, 195-pound left-handed hitter, batted .312 with 49 doubles, 10 triples, 15 home runs and 23 stolen bases at two levels of A-ball last season. He was rated one of the top prospects in the 2007 Arizona Fall League, got an invitation to big league spring training and entered his first Double-A season loaded with confidence.
“If I hadn’t been to the fall league or to big league camp, it might be different,” Schafer said in a preseason interview. “But I’ve already faced older guys, big league pitchers, and I held my own.
“As long as I take care of my work here and stay consistent, I’ve got nothing to worry about.”
Schafer played in just four M-Braves games, all on the road, and went 1-for-11 before his suspension came down.
“We didn’t get a real feel for what he can do then or in spring training. We just haven’t seen that much of him,” Wellman said.
Wellman said Schafer will play center field - four different players have manned the position since he left - but he wasn’t sure where he’d hit in the lineup.
Schafer batted third in the three games he started this season, but considering how well Jason Perry has hit in that hole, Wellman said he might stick Schafer in the leadoff spot.
One thing Wellman is sure of:
“If he plays like he’s capable of, all he can do is help us.”
By jbutler
May 30, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
Robert I used to be in your line of thinking about Bonds - but I think there’s an underlying Bonds fatigue out there that is turning him into cryptonite. If you sign him, you get a decent bat, but that’s it. And in the NL it doesn’t make any sense- he’s a total defensive liability. You also get a federal indictment, a rotten attitude and a basic pain in the…well, you know. I think its a general agreement that no one wants to bother.
By TennesseePaul
May 30, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
Per Chipper to the All Star game, I agree with Bravehearts post above. It’s cool Chipper still wants this stuff and takes it to mind. But I also think DAP has a very valid point in response to KC. Chipper from 2001-2006 wasn’t at 3B the whole time. He was also in LF while Bonds was winning MVPs at the position and other outfielders were posting monster seasons. And in addition, Chipper was injured for 3 straight years which dampens the public perspective of the player. He doesn’t “have to hit .400” to get on an All Star team. But after all those years of injury hitting does a good job of grabbing the public by the face and saying “remember me?”. I hope he gets in this year…
Payne: Most of us are trying to get the best deals—we would like more pay, we search for things that are on sale. Baseball teams are no different. Baseball players are no different. We are, in fact, kidding ourselves if we don’t think this is the case.
The key phrase there is “most of us”. The issue fans have with this is that there are some of us that don’t mind being the “starving artist”. Not that Chipper and Smoltz are squeaking by from week to week, but they didn’t go for the money, they went for what they loved even if the financial reward was less. These type actions from players will always win the hearts of the fans. Perhaps I’m way off base on this, but as a fan it is a sign of commitment to not only the team and the city but the fans as well. It’s a solid marriage and something that makes you love them even more. Or in the case of a few posters, makes you take them for granted and berate them for not always being 100% and hitting .400. But these guys have been silent this season. I haven’t seen the calls for divorce… “trade Chipper.” “Chipper is a schlub” etc. They’ve focused on Francoeur… part of baseball I guess.
By DAP
May 30, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this
if we got bonds i would feel like the braves sold their soul in hopes of a few more wins.
it would be hard for me, because it would be tuff to cheer when he hit homeruns, even though it would be for us… i doubt its gonna happen.
By Wayne in Utah
May 30, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this
Sorry guys, but I think it’s time to stick a fork in Barry Bonds….he is done!
(of course, just my opinion!)
By TK
May 30, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
This may have been covered in earlier posts (not going to take hours to find out). Joe Simpson on tv the other night was asking why Gregor Blanco was not leading off. Giving very good reasons. Speed, ops,avg, and how he works a pitcher. Then showed how much better Escobar had done hitting second. Then how much better Kelly had done lower in the order. I do not understand why Bobby has not tried this???
By eric the elder
May 30, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this
Let’s get Bonds and watch as he takes over half the clubhouse for his private lounge.
AJC would need to hire three more beat writers just to cover the circus.
By Salty
May 30, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this
Braveheart What makes Chipper unique is he strives for goals, but doesn’t put them before what’s best for the team. Other players strive for individual goals first…if it helps the team, then it’s ‘collateral benefit’! LOL! I’ll take Chipper’s approach…Smoltzie’s, too.
By Shaun
May 30, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this
TennPaul, good points. I certainly have a lot of respect for players like Chipper and Smoltz, Bagwell and Biggio for sticking with “their” teams.
However, I don’t blame the guy who hires the best agent and tries to get as much money as he can. I think it’s a little different for Tex and other guys than it is for players like Chipper, Smoltz, Bagwell and Biggio. Those players stuck with the organizations that drafted them or the organizations that traded for them when they were unknowns. I certainly don’t hold it against Teixeira that he feels no loyalty towards the Braves after his contract is up because his situation is different.
By OverlorDDDay
May 30, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
Here comes another tough part of the schedule….. Fish, Phillies, Cubs, Angels. I think thats tougher than last homestand.
Cubs look like a lock for winning the central. 6 regulars hitting above .300 and their top 2 starters have a combined 2.45 ERA. Kerry Wood in the bullpen. Ramirez and Lee at the corners.
Nobody has stepped as a good #3 for them, so it comes down to 1-2 punch. Wood has been their closer but his ERA does not looks closer-like (3.14).
What I dont really get is how the cardinals are doing they run. This team is a bigger surprise than the marlins. Man they are the NO NAME CARDINALS. They are leading the wild card. Tony Larussa is doing such a great job.
Oh man, I just hope that we kick cubs a*******es next week.
By eric the elder
May 30, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this
TK, Simpson has been lobbying for this the past three games (even using a chant). Ron Gant, too, but more vigorously.
Bloggers, too, are as close to a consensus on this as we will ever be.
Doesn’t matter. Bobby is the decider.
By ncscoots
May 30, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this
Not that Chipper and Smoltz are squeaking by from week to week, but they didn’t go for the money, they went for what they loved even if the financial reward was less.
But Chipper and Smoltz played for a winning organization in their non-free-agent years, and I don’t think the Braves ever let either player get to total free-agent status, did they? Can’t remember, but it seems there was always a deal in place before those two would actually jump into the FA pool.
Teixeira is in a different situation. He hasn’t had a sniff of the playoffs previously, and this is his first free-agent contract. Only natural that he should kick the tires elsewhere, before making any kind of decision. The man knows he’s going to get paid, big-time, but he has no idea of his real worth in the marketplace. Finding out just makes sense.
Besides, how else will he then be able to remind bloggers that he took less money to stay in Atlanta, LOL?
By ncgary
May 30, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this
on second thought i dislike bonds too much too, even if he did bring us an extra 10 wins,
get frenchy off his can and get him hitting like he can
By eric the elder
May 30, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
Shaun I don’t blame the guy who hires the best agent and tries to get as much money as he can
Nor does anyone else. It goes to the age-old question, “Wouldn’t you do the same?” Of course. Most of us, anyway.
But at an emotional level, which counts a lot for fans, it is a slap in the face.
Tex will simply be trading in the contempt of the fans whose team he leaves for the idolization of the fans of the team that gets him. For a zillion dollars, I’m sure he can live with that.
By Wayne in Utah
May 30, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this
Shaun Your post to 10Paul misses the point. Tex had an opportunity to do exacly what Chipper and Smoltz did with the Rangers, but he passed up a HUGE contract there to go for the brass ring. Whatever you think, I don’t believe Tex is the same type of person. He has chosen the path of greed.
And let’s not kid ourselves about Scott Boras. While he has the reputation for being the best at what he does, his image has been tarnished a bit in the past couple of years. Problem is that the “Billionaires” who run the clubs allow the “Millionaire” players to become what they are.
Scott doesn’t think about what is the best situation for a player. If he did, he wouldn’t have put Beltran in NYC. It is all about the greed. “I want to get every last possible drop of blood that I can get.”
Even Andruw’s contract was a sign of total ego on Scott Boras’ part, what with that little kicker that made the yearly average a tad bit better than whoever else was out there.
Every time I think of guys like AJ and Scott Boras and Tex, I get sick. Let them go. If I were a GM, and one of my better players signed with Scott Boras, I would trade him the first opportunity I had to get fair value in return. (I think Kenny Williams in Chicago has that approach with SB)
Sorry, I am now ranting about SB. Please forgive me of my ranting. Please resume normal blogging!
jbutler how have you been!
By ncscoots
May 30, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this
eric, if Simpson, Gant, and the blog are in consensus, time to head in the opposite direction. :-)
Running with the herd just gets you trampled, as some wise financier opined.
By Braveheart
May 30, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
Gregor Blanco: he has been batting 8th in front of the pitcher. If you are an 8th place hitter with a clue, you should draw a fair share of walks like Blanco has been doing because opponents would rather mess with the pitcher than the 8th place hitter. Just because Blanco has a high OBP down at the 8 hole does not mean he will if he bats high in the order. Pitchers will be much more aggressive with him if he bats in front of Yunel, Chipper, Tex and McCann. The good patience he shows lower in the order could work against him as pitchers get more aggressive and eat him up with strikes. I would expect his avg, obp and slg to decrease at the top of the order. He needs to stay batting 8th for the time being.
By Braves20
May 30, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
Not a fan of Blanco in the one hole. Very few rookies over the years have proven they can handle that role. Granted there have been a few exceptions.
And if you bat him first that puts KJ and Kotsay down at seven and eight. Both are too productive be buried in the eight hole.
By TennesseePaul
May 30, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
Payne: Teixeira had the same mindset even with the team that drafted and developed him. Many players do. In my opinion it isn’t a matter of blame the guy who hires the best agent and tries to get as much money as he can. If that is the players attitude then sobeit but I’m not sure it is justified to scold a fan who does not find this as a redeeming quality in the player. It’s much like dating a girl for a while and then finding out she’s got one foot out the door looking for a guy with a faster car. She may have treated you like a king for a few years but as soon as you find out desire for a long term commitment with you is pinned on the size of your bank account your passion for the woman is gone.
Scoots: Championships might have played into it for sure. You can’t fault a guy for looking at what he has and being content, which is the point really. But as Payne brought up, Bagwell and Biggio stuck around without said championships and the fans loved them for it. The team paid them well though… even still Chipper restructured his contract to take less than he would have received had he played it out and let the options vest ($47 million from ‘06-‘08 re-worked to $37 million through the same time frame plus a vesting option for next year that maxes out at $11 million far less than he could get on the open market for the season he is putting up).
As for Smoltz, I seem to remember him turning down an offer to play for a Yankees team that was on a playoff run of its own.
After the 2001 season, Smoltz turned down a much more financially-lucrative offer from the Yankees to remain with the Braves.
—Mark Bowman
By Steve C.
May 30, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this
Just got done voting, kudos to the AJC for linking it up. I resisted the urge to be a homer, and went stat heavy for the most part. Here’s who I got…
NL- 1B-Berkman, 2B-Utley, SS-Tejada, 3B-Chipper, C-McCann, OFS-Rowand, Nady, and Ludwick.
AL- 1B-Morneau, 2B-Kinsler, SS-Jeter, 3B-Arod, C-Mauer, OFS-Hamilton, Ordonez, and Milton Bradley.
Okay…thoughts?
By Wayne in Utah
May 30, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
So it’s settled, Blanco stays at 8!
Good points guys! Too often we want to transfer a guys number from two totally different spots in the lineup. It doesn’t work that way.
Same reason KJ is doing better OUT of the leadoff spot.
By Steve C.
May 30, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
and I voted Matsui for DH…
By TennesseePaul
May 30, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this
Of course, having typed all that I must say I understand why Teixeira is posturing himself the way he is. It does “make sense” in a way. But at the same time it makes it hard for a fan to commit to him right now seeing how he makes no effort to quell the suspected future happenings that are… by the end of the year he could very well be signing up to play for the arch rival thus leaving a gaping whole in the middle of the line up.
By David
May 30, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this
Craving a new blog…..who’s got the ball today, Carroll or DOB?
By nolie
May 30, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this
if Simpson, Gant, and the blog are in consensus, time to head in the opposite direction. :-)Scoots
yeah It’s kind of hard for me to reconcile my own somewhat positive feelings about this proposal with the fact that Simpson & Gant are supporting it. I really don’t think it makes much difference over the long run, but I also see no reason not to try it and see how it works.
By TJ
May 30, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
Two Braves prospects, Heyward and Freeman, getting some love on Baseball America’s hot sheet.
Good to see! The bad news - if you scroll down, Lilli and B Jones are prominent in the “not hot” section.
By BravesFanInRockies
May 30, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
OK, so if Blanco’s not your leadoff hitter, are you going to leave Yunel in a spot where he’s not producing? What’s the good in that?
During his time with the Braves, Edgar Renteria struggled in the leadoff role but put up stellar offensive numbers hitting second. Yunel has produced in the 2-hole as well. Are you ready to give away outs in the top spot in the order (which by definition has more plate appearances than anyone else) just because you think Blanco would draw more walks hitting 8th?
Yunel struggled even with a hot Mark Kotsay hitting behind him. KJ prefers hitting down in the order (and did poorly this year at leadoff).
I see an obvious solution. Anyone have a better idea?
By snowball's chance
May 30, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this
Some talk of The Braves picking up Bonds. I don’t see it but If they did the alliteration possibilities are interesting.
Barry Bonds
Bizarro Brave
By TennesseePaul
May 30, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this
Running with the herd just gets you trampled, as some wise financier opined.
I’d imagine if you ran directly against the herd the probability of trampling increases exponentially.
By Carroll Rogers
May 30, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
good smart insights on chipper, y’all. i dig it. and to tease you for the next blog which will be posted within the next hour, i’ll be writing on a chipper subject you guys have been mulling over yourselves.
more in a bit. the blog has landed in cincy.
By monty
May 30, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this
When Barry Bonds was in his prime(even with being juiced) no one gave him anything to hit and he was walked more than anyone in history as I recall,and yet he still found away to hit 70 homeruns. Pretty impressive, juiced or not. My comment yesterday was that I would rather Chipper hit 35 HR/s with 130 rbi’s than hit .400 and stand flat footed and bloop singles to the opposite field(which we have all seen him do this year). I am not criticizing Chipper, I said nothing derogatory about his phenominal year.Some call it just hitting it where it is pitched and that is true. And if he gets on base half of the time by a walk or single great!! As long as the guys behind him drive him in with some degree of regularity. I have often heard said by the Baves announcers that Tony Gywnn could have hit for alot more power numbers than he did, but he would rather hit.340 than .280 with bigger numbers. If Chipper’s focus becomes the same,to hit.400 at the risk of giving up some slugging,so be it. I said that would be exciting, great, wonderful. I certainly will be celebrating with all Braves fans. I was just asking the question what is best for the team. I know what would be best for Chipper.
By KC
May 30, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
DAP: Chipper missed a few weeks in the first half of last season. But that just made the run production numbers he put up all the more impressive.
“he put up good numbers, but only in batting average was he better than wright, and he had 100 or more less at bats.”
If you’re going to discredit the significant edge in batting average, then you also have to give Chipper credit for putting up similar run production numbers as Wright in so many fewer at-bats. Chipper still had enough plate appearances at the break to qualify as one of the league leaders in AVG… so how many at-bats shouldn’t count against him.
Look man, here’s the bottom line…
Chipper was having a better season than Wright heading into the all-star break. His numbers were better on a whole. Especially if you factored in defensive stability. But David Wright plays in NY, so he received more votes.
It’s as simple as that.
Same damned thing happened at the end of the year when David Wright was awarded the silver slugger over TWO more deserving candidates (Chipper and M.Cabrerra), and the gold-glove, despite having more than twice the total number of errors as Chipper.
Wright is the golden boy in the biggest media market of them all. Enough said.
By Big Easy
May 30, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
C’mon. Some of you guys are serious about Bonds? You have got to be kidding me! I mean, I think I cover more ground in left than him, and I’m an overweight slug. And you guys complain about Diaz’s defense?
Besides, the stigma of Bonds is not worth it. I don’t care if he can hit a zillion homeruns. No thanks.
Besides, our team is good, and I don’t get this “Trade KJ/Frenchy for X” talk. Doesn’t make sense. Frenchy is not having a great year, but you’ve gotta be crazy if you think the Braves are gonna part with him right now. And he will come around. All this team really needs is to get on a roll. We have the pieces, we just have some mental blocks, if you will. If this team gets on a roll on the road, and continues to play good ball at home, the East is ours to win. The one-run game thing won’t last, if our guys can get their (road) confidence back.
We have a good shot at just that against the Reds. Facing some good pitchers, but we should be able to sweep them if we play good baseball. And if we do that, and sort of break this roadlosing mentality once and for all, it is going to be a red-hot summer for the Bravos.
Deep breaths everybody. It may turn out to be a bumpy ride, but it will surely be a fun one.
~E~
By Shaun
May 30, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul, the Braves were a winning, classy organization when Chipper and Smoltz has the opportunity to leave. That along with the fact that they basically grew up in the organization I think has a lot to do with it.
With Biggio and Bagwell, the Astros were perennial contenders when they had the chance to bolt.
The Rangers have never been anything like that; at least that’s the perception.
I was probably wrong to say it’s all about staying with the organization that drafted or traded for them when they were unknowns. I’m sure the type of organization has something to do with it. The Rangers don’t seem as much like a players-first organization like the Braves and Astros organizations.
Of course, you never know. Maybe I’m completely wrong and it would be no different had Teixeira been drafted by an organization like the Braves or the Astros.
Another factor may be that Tex was a college player drafted by a perennially bad team that did not show signs of changing. The Braves players came out of high school. The Astros players went to that organization when it was young, up-and-coming and had a lot of promise. Not saying Teixeira’s thinking is right but I can’t certainly understand why his view of professional baseball is different from those other guys.
By Avatar
May 30, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this
Does anyone actually believe that Tom Terrible and the Braves have a ghost of a chance to win tonight’s game?
By KC
May 30, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
DAP: We may not see eye to eye on this Chipper/recognition thing… but I’m with you 100% on Barry Bonds.
I would feel dirty just buying a ticket to watch the Braves play.
By TJ
May 30, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
BravesFanInRockies, a couple of things about Yunel in the leadoff spot:
Yunel hit .351/.400/.490 in 166 PA, hitting leadoff in 2007. He can do it. He’s just been in a (little) slump… actually, he’s been very impatient lately. 18 pitches seen in his last 10 at bats!
I think it may be a little bit due to his knee injury, which came right in the middle of his move to leadoff; and maybe a little distraction over the Pena situation (and I do NOT think that should be a longterm problem, or that the Braves should’ve kept Pena to make him happy).
Plus, I agree with Braveheart and Braves20 that Blanco is right where he should be as a rookie with little power - in a low-stress position. He’d likely tail off batting leadoff, but he’s done a great job “turning over” the lineup.
By TennesseePaul
May 30, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
Wayne: Every time I think of guys like AJ and Scott Boras and Tex, I get sick. Let them go
You know the Braves initiated the end of the AJ era in Atlanta. Boras sent in his book but the Braves didn’t bite. No negotiations were done. And previously AJ had withheld Boras from negotiations. Additionally AJ admitted he would have accepted arbitration, i.e. a 1 year deal, just to stay a Brave. He maintains his house in Atlanta with no intention of leaving it. For all that went down with AJ I think he was as honest as he could be in that situation. He repeatedly said he wanted to stay and retire a Brave. That in itself would make one in a similar position hope for and position himself for a long term deal. The Braves looked at the business side and made a business decision to end the AJ era. As sad as I was to see him go I must admit it worked out well for us.
By ncscoots
May 30, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
BFIR, I’d only say that Escobar and Johnson both performed well at the top of the order last year, over a much larger number of AB than they have accumulated so far this year. If they are underperforming at those spots currently, isn’t it more probable that the underperformance is the aberration, rather than the other way around?
BTW, Blanco’s work this year at the ML level has turned my opinion of him 180, so I’m not down on Gregor. I’d seen him in the minors, over more than one season, and I sincerely didn’t think he would be able to make the adjustment to the bigs. So far, he’s proved me wrong.
By eric the elder
May 30, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
If stats mean anything (where are you, Shaun?), Yunel was WAY better in the 2-hole than leading off, and Kelly was WAY better batting #7 than leading off.
I understand the good points made against using Blanco at lead off. But I would be willing to take the chance that one player (Blanco) might not do as well, when there is ample evidence that two other players (Yunel and Kelly) would do better in their comfort zone slots.
All at the risk of being trampled. :)
By TennesseePaul
May 30, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
KC: Wright is the golden boy in the biggest media market of them all.
That’s true. But I also think a lot of All Star balloting is carry over from previous seasons. Basically you start voting after a month of ball, so most of the initial votes are homer votes or an amalgam of the previous season and the first month. Deeper into the season the voting goes people will pay more attention to what the player is currently doing, and at that point Chipper was injured. Chipper did very well last year to set the bar pretty high this year. In 2006 he was injured for a good long time. And the year before that. And the year prior, 2004 was his worst full season, and even then he was also injured. And lastly, from 2001 through 2003 he was in LF competing against Bonds for an All Star birth.
By David-ATL14
May 30, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
Since Shaun has’t posted this yet: I will
Escobar’s (MLB) numbers Batting#1 217 AB’s .327 BA with an OBP of .376
His numbers from batting #2:(199 AB’s)
.312BA with an OBP of .377.
Very little difference in the numbers form either spot.
A lot of angst over nothing. .
By BravesFanInRockies
May 30, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
TJ,
There’s no disputing that KJ and Yunel more than held their own in the leadoff spots last season. KJ has also said (recently) that he didn’t like hitting there and felt more comfortable down in the order (and he’s been pretty lousy as a leadoff man this year, too).
As for Yunel, perhaps the injury to his knee and his finger have affected him. Maybe he’d hit lousy anywhere in the lineup until he’s fully healthy (or at least convinced that he’s not likely to get hurt by going full-out).
So what do you do about this? Do you sacrifice performance at the top of the order, or do you let a player who has shown leadoff skills take that spot until Yunel figures it out? I choose the latter, esp. if Kotsay’s still ailing.
By bubba
May 30, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
is there any chance charlie morton might get called up for one of the games against the marlins next week?
By TennesseePaul
May 30, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
Scoots: I’ve seen your 180 on Blanco. I never saw the guy in the minors but the read up on him prior to this year wasn’t positive. My impressions of him have been altered with his performance this year and I’m absolutely fine with that. But there is still an itch in me that thinks if he is moved to the top of the order he’ll start to struggle and all the good will he has garnered will sink like a stone into the abyss. He’s succeeding in the 8th spot. There’s another old adage… if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. We can shift Kotzay, Yunel and Kelly around the 1,2 and 7 spots all year and succeed. I’d prefer KJ in the 7th spot. If he is indeed a “poor man’s Utley” then perhaps we should bring him along as Utley was brought along… introduced to the majors low in the order and eventually worked up the line up until he resided at the #2 or #3 hole. But not lead off.
By eric the elder
May 30, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
David, those are career stats?
Can you give us this year’s stats?
By BravesFanInRockies
May 30, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
David —
Those are for both 2007 and 2008. This year’s a different animal. Hitting 1st (in 2008), Yunel’s has a .310 OBP/.643 OPS; hitting 2nd, it’s .401/.852.
Kelly’s OPS is .740 hitting 1st, 1.220 (wow) hitting 7th.
Think I’d be willing to take a chance with Blanco in the leadoff spot considering recent history.
By TennesseePaul
May 30, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
Regarding Chipper and the All Star Selection: To put it another way, if Chipper ends this season with the Batting title, especially if he ends it hitting .400, and then starts next season, 2009, along the afore-posted lines…
David Wright: .292, 16 HR, 51 RBI
Chipper Jones: .329, 15 HR, 41 RB
… I’d suspect he’d be leading in the balloting again.
By TJ
May 30, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
So what do you do about this?
BravesFanInRockies, I’d leave it like it is - and put Kotsay at #2 when he’s back, KJ back to 6th/7th. But, I’m not stomping my feet as I type that. I see your point, even if I don’t quite agree.
If we decided to try Blanco as leadoff, it would be interesting. I just don’t think it’s any great key to solving our problems. If Tex hits, and Frenchy gets back to even his own career numbers, I think the offense is fine.
By Boricua
May 30, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
KOTSAY DL…J Anderson call up…
By DAP
May 30, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
KC Chipper was having a better season than Wright heading into the all-star break. His numbers were better on a whole. Especially if you factored in defensive stability. But David Wright plays in NY, so he received more votes.
its NOT as simple as that. chipper was coming off of two years where he played about 100 games. his injury for about a month hurt him in getting all star votes.
KC, when your injured and miss games, that doesnt mean your having a better season than someone who has played every day if you stats are ALMOST as good.
2007 is debatable, so i dont think chipper has a beef there. its tuff luck, and like it or not, his injuries hurt his chances.
what did you come up with for 02-06 when he didnt get voted in? im sure youll agree with me that chipper didnt deserve to get in those years.
By keylargo
May 30, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this
I would have to think that part of the time the pitcher was really bearing down on the 8th spot so he could face the 9th hitter to lead off the following inning and get a pretty sure out.
Blanco has surpassed most peoples expectations of him and I would like to see him at least get a few games to see what he does. It’s not like we would be displacing a natural #1.
By DAP
May 30, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this
its to bad kotsay has been DLed, but im kinda excited to see anderson play. itll be interesting to see what the lineup looks like.
i betcha blanco is leading off tonight with yunel 2nd, and anderson batting 8th.
By keylargo
May 30, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this
Here’s the news on the outfield situation.
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080530&contentid=2798868&vkey=newsatl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl
By MGL
May 30, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this
Anyone think that they will put Anderson in #1 spot??
By Shaun
May 30, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
DAP and KC, I was going to bring this up yesterday. I went back and looked at the first-half numbers since 2001. Chipper doesn’t have any years during that period where it’s clear-cut that he should have been the starter at his position. Now, making the All-Star team is probably a different story.
By ncgary
May 30, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
i agree with that eric it would be worth taking a chance in cincy and starting blanco leadoff a couple games and see how he responds
By ncscoots
May 30, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this
TPaul, that’s probably a pretty good “itch”, LOL. Blanco would certainly be pitched differently at 1 than 8, and he’s not likely to hurt you deep, so he’s bound to pitched more aggressively there. Fastballs in, do what you can, says the pitcher. In fact, that was always my knock on him in the minors, that ML pitchers would knock the bat out of his hands. But he’s changed his swing a LOT, and is a good bit quicker through the zone, with more bat speed than I certainly remember. So, who knows? He might flourish there. But I also don’t see any overwhelming evidence that he can produce better there, over the long haul, than Escobar.
How’s that for being on the fence, LOL?
By Wayne in Utah
May 30, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
Interesting talk about where to bat Blanco. I see both sides to the argument. I suspect things like Kotsay being DL’d will be the catalyst to some potential change. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Anderson or Blanco leading off tonight. Blanco would be my first choice, but Anderson has the wheels if he can hit enough.
By eric the elder
May 30, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this
DAP, I think your instincts are good. Bobby tends to run them right out there.
Last I checked, someone has to bat leadoff. We appear to be agreed, generally, that Kelly is not the guy.
There might an even money chance that Bobby will go with Yunel and Kelly #1 and #2 and bat Greg White 7th. Ugh.
By Wayne in Utah
May 30, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
If you look at our list of DL’d players for 2008, it would make a pretty good team, and a great pitching staff (when they were all healthy).
Smoltz, Glavine, James, Hampton, Carlyle….Soriano, Gonzo, Moylan…Diaz, Kotsay, Infante, Prado, and Pena.
Did I miss anyone? (Escobar’s knee and Chipper’s whatever it was)
By TennesseePaul
May 30, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
New Blog Up
By Randy Head
June 2, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
If Bobby Cox would use speed at leadoff and play small ball their team wouldn’t have as much pressure to hit or pitch perfectly. COME ON
By Thelandryhat
June 4, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this
I wonder if Charlie Morton will be called up now with Smoltz done for the season. This blog discusses it. http://bravesnuworld.com/2008/06/04/with-john-smoltz-gone-for-the-year-braves-face-familar-obstacle/ Apparently, Morton had an incredible start last night.