Braves

By ijonathan

June 1, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

I’m getting tired of…

1. Yunel swinging at the first pitch
2. Yunel grounding to SS
3. Yunel jogging down to 1B

By richbrave

June 1, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

DOWN ON THE FARM

In rummaging about the farm system’s stats, I came across a young man with some impressive statistics. His name’s MIKE YOUNG and he plays CF on the MISSISSIPPI BRAVES. I know a few folks post here that are fans and attend the games of that franchise. So wha’s ‘zup with YOUNG.??

54 G, 182 AB, 32 R, 58 H, 4 2B, 5 3B, 1 HR, 24 RBI, 75 TB, 28 BB, 22 SO, 9 SB, 7 CS, ,421 OBP, .412 SLG., .319 BA, .833 OPS, 4 E.

I like the 58 H - 54 G ratio, and the 28 BB’s to 22 SO’s is excellent. 5 TRIPLES smells of some speed on the bases and the OF, but 4 E means maybe he’s still learning in that position. OBP is high of course, and the slugging appears good. 9 SB/ 7 CS not so. Somebody who knows the league?? Does this represent a call-up to AAA???

We’re currently filling in CF since JOSH ANDERSON’s departure with REGGIE TAYLOR who’s been struggling this year with the stick.

Speaking of batting woes BRENT LiLLIBRIDGE is currently at .197 falling below the Mendoza Line again after getting up as high as .215. Leading the club in errors with 8 and in basestealing with 12 (3 CS). BRENT’s not had an easy year so far. His problems pre-date his batting-induced heel injury.

The organization continues to stick with him, but the R-BRAVES now have DIORY HERNANDEZ who has filled in admirably for “LiL BRIDGE.” Shortstop/Second Base HERNANDEZ is batting a team-leading .331 in 86 AB.

BARBARO CANIZARES remains steady with the bat (.320) and around the bag (3 errors). I think his fielding is slowly improving. His season’s line: 52 G, 185 AB, 19 R, 59 H, 10 2b, 0 3b, 6 HR (tied for the club lead with THORMAN), 32 RBI, 88 TB, 15 BB, 29 SO, 0 SB, 0 CS, .368 OBP, .480 SLG., .320 BA, .840 OPS, 3 E.

CANIZARES continues a slugger’s mentality with a 2/1 SO/BB ratio and leads the club with 32 RBI and 88 TB. OBP suffers with the low BB count, but the TB’s raise the slugging to an acceptable level. G/H ratio good, but obviously ponderous when running the bases, 0 SB. BARBARO continues to be a valuable man in a DH role on a NL team. If his work with the glove pays off and continues to show improvement, he could be released from his minor-league prison, and become ATLANTA’s solution to the back-up 1B job. He should also bring some heavy lumber to the plate as a PH.

We have a new LF in town the past two games - JASON PERRY. BATTING .500 in eight AB with 1 2B, and 1 HR (8 TB). He’s over from TOLEDO (the MUD HENS of M.A.S.H. fame). His stats there not so good. Not sure at this point how we acquired him from the TIGERS organization, but he’s made a splash taking BRANDON JONES’ place in the line-up. I’m guessing with the PACIFIC COAST LEAGUE (SEATTLE org.) background, DAVE BRUNDIGE has clued in ATLANTA to sign him, and give him an opportunity to at least fill-in in the OF. We’ll see.

To my knowledge, BRANDON has no injury. But he is slipping at the plate (.258). Still leads the club with 14 doubles, however.

DAMON MOSS picked up his second win (2-4). His game line: 5 IP, 7 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 5 SO. This is typical of his starts this year. Good, but not dominating the league, which you must do to have the opportunity to excel in ATLANTA.

ANDY SHIBILO pitched well in long relief going 3.0 IP, goose-eggs except for 5 SO. Good job, ANDY.

AND JEFF RIDGWAY picked up his 3rd save with 9th inning relief including 0 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, and 1 SO.

By LA Brave

June 1, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Decent first inning, considering. Escobar and Johnson were definitely patient. Hudson looks sharp. If anyone is going to pitch us out of a funk, it will be Hudson.

By N8

June 1, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Does anybody else out there think that Jr. going for 600 HR is MUCH more relevant than Bonds Breaking Hank’s record, Sosa hitting hitting his 600th, and or anything McGwire did?

IMO, I refuse to believe that Jr. was EVER on the juice.

So to me, this is huge. The first LEGIT guy to hit 600 HR in my lifetime.

By Will

June 1, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

I am getting tired of all the stats thrown out there to put a positive spin on where the Braves are right now. They had a chance to be leading the division right now and they just flat out didnt take it. Phillies are as good or better a baseball team then the Braves and they are already a few games up and just now playing really well. Road wins need to come in a hurry or the Bravos are in trouble. Everybody always wants to talk about things evening out, well another thing thats going to come back to earth is the Braves home record!!

By Will

June 1, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Yes Griffey hitting 600 is definitely a huge deal. I get irritated everytime they show the top home run hitters seeing Bonds and Sosa. I am happy for him and knowing braves luck it will probably happen today.

By eric the elder

June 1, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

First time through the order, and three rocket shots were caught. Hope it’s not an omen.

By richbrave

June 1, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

WILL:

I agree with you. I thought TEX would be batting .290 by now, and the duo of JOHNSON/ESCOBAR would be confounding the opposition with hit after timely hit. Did anyone else notice that KELLY’s two strike-outs yesterday were pitches up in his eyes.??? If that’s a hole in his swing, he better go to work on correcting it. More BB’s and less SO’s are necessary from JOHNSON.

I completely agree with McCANN batting in the #5 hole, but FRANCOUER is really struggling comparatively speaking (prior ML years). Maybe he’s better as a free swinger.

By HELP

June 1, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

CAN SOMEBODY IN FRONT OF A TV PLEASE POST UPDATES ON THE GAME.

By Austin

June 1, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

This team is borderline pathetic.

By keylargo

June 1, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

Thank you Phillips for standing in the box to admire your double. Without your help it’s an easy triple and another run in.

By Jeff321

June 1, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

Maybe its just me but I think Tim Hudson is washed up or playing hurt.

By C from Marietta

June 1, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

All I have to say is 81-81. Medicore at best. No ace. No clutch hitting. A bullpen that will be worn out by June 15th. Time for something to change.

By eric the elder

June 1, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

Last night, I sent an email to my brother in Cincinnati. I said he could expect 27 quick outs today because the Braves can’t get home soon enough.

Cueto: perfecto through 4.

By Section 412

June 1, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

HELP - easy summary so far. Braves are 12 up and 12 down. Reds rocking Hudson. HR for Bruce (bomb), HR for Dunn (bigger bomb), double by Griffey followed by RBI double for Phillips (who was thrown out at 3rd trying to stretch it to a triple).

So far, not so good, but it’s early! Right? (he asks, optimistically)

By Bobby's Cox

June 1, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

i find it odd that many on here are complaining about Escobar. The dude looks like he’s slumping a little for the 1st time in 2 years, and people are all over him.

Looks like KJ is starting to slump again. That dude goes in and out of more dry spells than any other brave barring Frenchy.

By Section 412

June 1, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Hudson - quick 4th. 3 up, 3 down, on about 10 pitches or so.

By Greg

June 1, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

We need a leadoff hitter. We need to burn those damned blue unis.

By bravesfan

June 1, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

HELP We are getting no hit through 4 IP, and losing 3 to 0. Dunn and Bruce have hit solo shots for the Reds of Cincinnati.

By Carroll Rogers

June 1, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

N8, good point.

helluva a play for a Norton just now, and a guy who doesn’t play much outfield.

Jay Bruce. good lord.

By Moby Grape

June 1, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

First time through the order, and three rocket shots were caught. Hope it’s not an omen.OldEric

I sure don’t like it that he is throwing sidearm so much. I wonder if he’s hurting? Pretty unusual for a sinkerball guy to throw that way much;won’t be any sink on those. And he seems to be getting hit pretty hard so far. We do not need him to develop some health issue, for sure.

I think we got out big run game yesterday and were unable to take advantage of it. We look pretty anemic so far.Their pitcher is doing a good job of keeping it down.

By Del

June 1, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Seems to me that Yunel’s recent performance and “seemingly” indifferent attitude started about the time we released Pena.

By eric the elder

June 1, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

The Braves announcers have been reduced to evaluating fans’ hats.

Watching Braves games these days is like checking for hanging chads.

By Section 412

June 1, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Still no hits thru 5. Frenchy did walk, though (odd), to break up the perfecto.

Cueto 66 pitches thru 5 no hit innings.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 1, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

No hitter intact through 5; Frenchy broke up the perfect game with a walk.

Hudson also gave up a third run on a double to Jr and a double to Phillips (thrown out at 3rd trying to stretch it).

By Yars

June 1, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Hell the Braves look asleep. Being no hit through 5 innings so far. How pathetic.

By andy

June 1, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

Even though i’m a Braves fan, i’m so mad at them right now i hope they get no-hit. Maybe it will finally wake them up.

By N8

June 1, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

Ho-Hum. (sigh)

One pith to Tex…..One out.

Go figure.

Again though. Two teams that coming into playing the Braves, were a combined 49-56. Yet they have MAN-HANDLED the Braves in the 5+ games (other than the 8-1 Braves W against the Brewers).

WHY THE HELL is Norton on this frickin team, much less starting.

I got news for the people that think Smoltz, Soriano and Gonzo are gonna change any of this. Unless they can hit in the clutch, it’s NOT gonna make a damn bit of difference.

Somebody the other day posed the question that IF Hampton returns anytime soon, where would he “fit in” with Jo-Jo and Campillo looking solid in the 4th and 5th slots of the rotation?

To that, I say……how about LF, and bat him clean-up?

Braveheart, your post last night was FANTASTIC and filled with MANY valid points.

But you know what I will remember to go along with your points?

I’ll remember how POORLY Bobby has managed the lineup for the past week or two (Norton? REALLY?).

I’m quite certain, that when Coach was pining for Norton to be a Brave, is was NOT to start 3 games in a row at the end of May.

You guys can rag on me all you want (and I know you will), but Bobby has lost this team. Only thing is THEY don’t know it yet.

Yaaaay for Bobby, he went out to “save” his catcher from getting ejected. That’s great, if MLB was a “father/son” contest.

How about he save the TEAM from losing games, by putting a frickin BIG LEAGUE line-up out there to compete on the road? THAT truly would be something to praise him for.

To those of you that are gonna say “OK….what “moves” or lineup changes should he make?”

How about ANYTHING other than trotting the same pathetic lineup out there day after day after day after day after day.

By definition…….insane.

By ijonathan

June 1, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

Look at Blanco…team’s in a rut, not hitting, so he gets a nice bunt down, uses his speed and legs it out to first.

Geez, that’s kind of what you’re looking for in a leadoff hitter. Too bad that we already have a stellar leadoff guy.

By N8

June 1, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Greg

“We need to burn those damned blue unis.”

First, let me say that it’s NOT the frickin’ uniforms causing this bad play.

But while we’re on the subject of changing uniforms, may I suggest that they wear clown outfits, when on the road? That’s how they play on the road, anyhow?

Besides, it’s not like the big shoes would take away our team speed, right?

And now, batting clean-up, wearing the Bozo the Clown suit, circa: 1985…..

By Yars

June 1, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Perhaps Yunel needs a day off. Enough of this 1st pitch swinging! Blanco at 2B, & Yunel swings at the 1st pitch & pops out. Work the count a little Yunel!

By Section 412

June 1, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

No-no gone. Blanco bunt single. Hudson sacs him over, Escobar pops up on first pitch (shocker) and KJ strikes out (shocker). Ray Charles could see that coming.

Del - while the implication of your statement makes no logical sense (that Escobar has lost interest w/o Pena around), it actually seems to be true. I’m sure one of our resident “stat guys” can prove or disprove the theory with numbers, he does seem lost the past couple of weeks. Again, it makes no logical sense that a guy who has been through so much in his life would “lose it” over a business decision, but you have to admit that it looks a little like that may be true.

By andy

June 1, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

I honestly think the Braves need a big change, like maybe firing Bobby Cox. Unfortunately, I don’t see that happening since they signed him for another year.

By Mark T.

June 1, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

It is safe to say again, we need a leadoff hitter…It is becomeing clearly evident Yunel isnt the best option to lead off. Too many AB’s less than 5 pitches and got to put KJ back at 7th. Why not start Blanco and Anderson. Gives us some speed in the outfield, in the lineup and on the basepaths? As shaky as Hudson has looked in this game, again he has kept us in the game….again. And again, it is the offense turning marginal pitchers and inconsistent rookies in to top flight pitchers when we play them, especially on the road.

By eric the elder

June 1, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

I have an idea for a promotion.

25 fans are chosen at random. If the Braves lose, the players have to line up, and the fans get to pie them.

By Section 412

June 1, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Hudson has settled down and has a decent outing going. Thru 6, still 3-0 Reds. Too bad he gets no support. Yet.

By Epinephrine

June 1, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

Yunel is not a lead off hitter. Carroll, can you ask Bobby when we will end this charade and put Gregor as the lead-off man? This is absurd. He isn’t patient, and it’s hitting him and the Braves. Absurd.

All right Tex. One more run this inning would be nice.

By Section 412

June 1, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Tex - laser HR around the RF pole. 3-1. BMc - bomb. 3-2. Like I said, no support - yet.

By andy

June 1, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

I can just see us losing 3-2 today.

By Yars

June 1, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

Well look at that. I flip over to TBS to catch a few minutes of the Fish-Phils game & all of a sudden, Tex & BMac hit back to back HR. Good golly!

By Ray

June 1, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

I’m visiting a friend in NY. A Yankee lover, of course. I don’t get to see very many American League games, so the Twins’ players are largely unfamiliar to me. The Yankees, of course, are an all star team—my sister knows who most of them are. I watched these guys battle it out last night, back and forth, for 11 innings, until the Yankees manufactured a run with some crafty hitting by Jeter, folowwed by Rivera slamming the door shut.

I can’t tell you how peculiar it looked to watch a team do everything right. They went into Minnesota and didn’t let the crowd disrupt what they needed to do to eek out a victory.

I asked my buddy if he was ever worried. “Nah,” He said assuredly, “They’ll lose a few of these games on the road, but by the end of the season, they always manage to get it done.”

I suddenly felt like I needed a support group for all my Braves induced misery. Then I realized I, in fact, had one: this blog. The reason why we all vent as vociferously as we do in here is because we never think for a fleeing moment that the Braves might have the resiliency to bounce back from adversity, or the constitution to stay sharp for very long. They are literally stressing us out to the point where we may find ourselves in a real support group—like AA.

As my friend turned off the tv and went to bed, still giggling after seeing my reaction to the Braves’ second extra inning loss in as many nights, I envied him. Then I had a beer.

By N8

June 1, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Hack and Jack at it’s finest.

It appears that Tex is heating up.

Now Francoeur doubles. What? Is Bobby now managing the Reds? They gonna let him get the loss after giving up 1 bunt single through 6 innings?

Ahhhh. Greg Norton, to bring the team back to reality.

Nice.

By Yars

June 1, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

eric the elder…..not only should the players have to line up & be pied, but Bobby too!

By Bobby's Cox

June 1, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Mark T

Excellent Post. Agree 110%.

Start Anderson in center/leadoff. Play Blanco in LF, hitting 8th. Put Esco back at 2 and KJ back at 7.

Screw the power. If the team does the little things, the power will come and be icing on the cake, like a few games from the last homestand. Sorry to say, but quick legs and some small ball can bring some consistancy other than the win at home, lose on road pattern this team has been displaying.

By ijonathan

June 1, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Seriously, folks, regarding the leadoff spot…how many at-bats did it take Bobby last year to finally dump the Diaz-Harris platoon, after Willie started sucking? 50 AB? 100 AB? I predict in mid-to-late June the light bulb will turn on above Bobby’s head.

By eric the elder

June 1, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Ray

Solid post.

By N8

June 1, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

I think it’s a mistake leaving Hudson out there to start the bottom of the 7th.

Keep in mind, that I’m “first” guessing, NOT second guessing.

By Section 412

June 1, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

Hudson came out for the 7th and was kind of stretching funny in his warmups. Threw one pitch - single. Leaving the game limping. Looked like a left hamstring to me, but they aren’t sure yet on the broadcast. Ugh.

By MVH

June 1, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

If this score holds up the Braves will have scored 22 runs and allowed 19 on this road trip.

By AMG

June 1, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

Things just keep getting better …

By Bobby's Cox

June 1, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Not even Carroll’s hot record could turn this team’s road woes around.

Bring Carroll on the road and what happens? The braves amazing record in games she covers also goes back to .500.

By Section 412

June 1, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

Replays show Porter working on Hudson’s left hamstring (low), just above the back of the left knee.

By ijonathan

June 1, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

Frank Wren, for the love of God, get Brayan Pena back ASAP. :-)

By ijonathan

June 1, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

Yep, bunting is overrated.

By AMG

June 1, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

Boyer is HURT!!

By Mark T.

June 1, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

Yunel with the ole throw to 1st. E6 to add to the reason we arent winning road games. The same breaks we make to win games, are the same breaks we are making to lose games. Thank you Yunel for extending this inning

By N8

June 1, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

MVH

“If this score holds up the Braves will have scored 22 runs and allowed 19 on this road trip.”

Uhhhh….an 8-1 victory (in the only victory) will do that to the run differential on a road trip.

HEY! Whaddya know? Single. Bunt. Error. Squeeze.

Bobby has to go.

Instead of McCann and Boyer taking out their frustration on a hitter not getting in the batters box, HOW ABOUT THEY TAKE IT OUT ON THEIR TEAMATES???

I think it’s about time we all come to grips with something.

The Braves are not under-achieving. The Braves will NOT turn this around.

This team is quite simply…..mediocre. Period. End of discussion. NOTHING has changed since the beginning of 2006.

But don’t worry. We have Bobby Cox, it’ll all be alright. Right?

By Bobby's Cox

June 1, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

If this score holds up the Braves will have scored 22 runs and allowed 19 on this road trip. MVH

Not to mention we’ll be 1-5, although outscoring their opponents.

Where’s Shaun with his statistical reasoning to tell us that this offense doesn’t have a problem because we outscore our opponents.

By jmart1951

June 1, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

We are experiencing the reason I don’t think that Cox is as good a manager as most seem to think. He has a lineup that has not been working, including a left fielder that is shaky defensively and yet will not budge. A simple move puts the lineup back in good shape where the individual players have proven themselves to be comfortable. We lose 1 run game after one run game and Cox still doesn’t make a move. We need a new lead off man. For me its Anderson playing left field and batting first. This moves Escobar back to hitting second and Johnson back to seventh or eigth. Cox will eventually get to this type of lineup but how many games has it cost us.

By Austin

June 1, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

Bobby might loose another one. Using the same damn relievers day after day. WHERE THE HELL IS STOCKMAN? Why would you pitch to Bruce THEN walk Griffey? Makes no damn sense.

By kirknga

June 1, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

Is it possible that Boyer is the one to follow Resop out the door? I can’t remember the last time he’s had a 1,2,3 inning.

By Reds Fan

June 1, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

BRUCEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

By THB

June 1, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Pretty sure the Reds have made the Braves look silly this series. I hadn’t lost my temper with the all year, until today.

By Jeff321

June 1, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Well, looks like Bobby’s golden boy is giving up some runs, eh?

By Section 412

June 1, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

Escobar air-mails Tex on a routine ground out (would have been out #2). Next batter (Hairston) squeezes in a run, then Bruce singles in another. 5-2 Reds. Add me to list of those who think that maybe Infante should get a spot start at short tomorrow (and maybe Tuesday.

Boyer has slipped off the rubber on two different pitches and now he’s leaving hurt.

What next?

By keylargo

June 1, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

Well, looks like Phil Stockman got a reprieve. Hope it is not serious to Hudson or Boyer.

By kirknga

June 1, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

Now I feel bad for being mad at Boyer. He’s hurt again.

By Bama

June 1, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

D. Baker has took Cox to school in 7th. Maybe Cox will learn something, sorry I forgot you can’t teach old dogs new tricks. Reds damn look great agains Bobby’s Braves.

By Mark T.

June 1, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

A fly ball pitcher with the bases juiced, and a BIG power hitter coming up…I wonder what will happen…..

By 22oz

June 1, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

Well, maybe Stockman will get into this game before he’s sent down to make room for Smoltz.

By N8

June 1, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

And the hits just keep on coming.

Boyer leaves due to injury. That’s two pitchers in one HORRIBLE inning of baseball.

Hey Braveheart…. What are you gonna remember about THIS game? LOL! (sorry…had to).

Anybody wanna challenge my prediction of a 5-1 homestand against the Phillies and Marlins, (temporarily putting us in 1st place) followed by a 3-7 road-trip? Of course, knocking us back out of 1st place.

It’s about time for Wren to make a move. Or the only “moves” this team will be making is lateral ones.

If treading water were an MLB statistic, the Braves would lead the league in that category.

By Random

June 1, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

eric the elder —

De gustibus non est disputandum;

Chacun a son gout.

I was not presuming to speak either for you or for Braveheart, only for myself. Please excuse my exuberance over an excellent comment.

georgewallace — Ditto.

“Speaking of … where … ?” — here.

By ijonathan

June 1, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

How many backhand stabs has Mac made at pitches this year that get by him? Is he not physically able to shift to either side, face up the pitch and block it with his body??

By Interested Observer

June 1, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

Well, the ugly blue alternate jerseys claim two more injury victims. When will they learn!

By eric the elder

June 1, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

I don’t want this to be interpreted as stereotyping or expressing some kind of ethnic bias. I don’t.

Many Hispanic players tend to be emotional and to rise high and fall low.

It will be hard to convince me that Yunel’s hitting problems aren’t related to his being put into the leadoff position. The numbers are compelling. He was great at #2, and now Bobby refuses to recognize that.

I’m guessing that his emotional state is very bad right now. And so I wonder whether that will carry over to his defense.

I think Bobby is playing with fire.

By Carroll Rogers

June 1, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

i gotta tell you, i just got chill bumps. they had a guy play god bless america on the violin, and the fans sang with him. it was so cool to be able to hear people sing and not drowned out by somebody on a mike. it was lovely. and the fiddler was quite good too.

guessing cramp on tim hudson. left calf.

By John

June 1, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

The Braves are now 22-7 at home and 7-21 on the road. Just pathetic.

By jeff

June 1, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

The Braves might have a Anderrrrsssoooon!!!!!! if Cox give him a chance.

By Bobby's Cox

June 1, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

Anyone still wish we had Joey Divine?

By jmart1951

June 1, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

And while I’m at it. Stockman was having an unbelieveable season in Richmond. We have some injuries and bring Stockman up. Bobby doesn’t use him at all. If you go through Cox’s past as a manager, the only time that Cox has ever brought up rookies and played them is when all other options had been exhausted. Three cathers go down and them he lets McCann play full time. Same with Frenchy, everybody and their brother got hurt in the outfield before Bobby lets Frenchy play. Through the years this has happened time after time. The ONLY TIME Cox varied from this was when he brought up Devine and then pitched him a second inning in his first outing in a very tight game (grand slam). The players love Bobby as a player’s coach, I wonder what their private view concerning Bobby’s game management skills are?.

By FloridaBrave

June 1, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

I love how everything is Bobby’s fault.

Anyone ever just think we’re a mediocre team? Because that’s the conclusion I’ve come to after this roadtrip.

And, no, going back home and winning some games won’t change my opinion. I refuse to get excited about this season again until we start winning games on the road.

By Edward

June 1, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Now toThe Bear or anyone else…i was right with what i said, and i stick with it…THIS IS NOT PLAYOFF CALIBER TEAM..just for the sanity of the fans..WHY IS GREG NORTON starting???WHY?? Face it,guys!!..i know its Pretty difficult…im having a hard time myself…but the TRUTH is the Truth…unless this team makes DRASTIC Changes in their APPROACH, players,lineup coaches,MANAGEMENT..this will not change..NOT ONE BIT

By N8

June 1, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

Where are you at Carroll to calm us (me) down and tell me that it’s all gonna be OK? LOL!

On the Reds broadcast they just showed the game summary. Filled with Reds highlights.

They might as well have shown Buster Douglas pummeling Mike Tyson. Because that’s about how bad of a beat-down Baker and the Reds gave Bobby and the Braves this weekend.

It’s play like this, that makes me wish the Steinbrenners were the owners of the Braves.

At least we’d have some entertaining quotes and squabbles to read about.

Who out there thinks that if Bobby was managing the Yankees the pas 2+ seasons, that he wouldn’t be on the “hot-seat”??

By Section 412

June 1, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Hudson - strained left hamstring. No further info at this time.

6-2, bottom 8.

By A-ville Ranger

June 1, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

I think we should do something special to welcome the team home.By home I mean .500 baseball,that IS home.It has been for going on 3 seasons and these guys will defend that home against any opponent,be it opposing teams or heightened expectations.So what to do to show the guys we’re onboard for their drive to mediocrity ? I’ve got it let’s all go into work tomorrow and do our jobs till a couple of hours ( substitute for innings) before quiting time then just start fing up,I mean fup EVERYTHING.

By Ramon

June 1, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

BAMA

I can tell D. Baker didn’t took you to school, though. Or is that higher education over in Bama?

Sorry, but you left yourself wide open for that one. LOL

By AMG

June 1, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Funny thing: given the up-coming schedule, it is possible the Braves could be in first place this time next week.

Then they will go on the road for 10 games, yikes!!

By Andy

June 1, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

I just think the Braves standards arent as high as teams like the Red Sox, Yankees, etc. If Cox was managing the Yankees and his team performed the way the Braves have the last few years, then he would have been gone years ago. The Braves are just satisfied with winning 80-85 games a year.

By Andy

June 1, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

I just think the Braves standards arent as high as teams like the Red Sox, Yankees, etc. If Cox was managing the Yankees and his team performed the way the Braves have the last few years, then he would have been gone years ago. The Braves are just satisfied with winning 80-85 games a year.

By Andy

June 1, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

I just think the Braves standards arent as high as teams like the Red Sox, Yankees, etc. If Cox was managing the Yankees and his team performed the way the Braves have the last few years, then he would have been gone years ago. The Braves are just satisfied with winning 80-85 games a year.

By Phillie Fan

June 1, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

Just so all ya southern cupcakes know, Phils just came back from down 5-1 to take the lead 7-5 on Burrell’s 2 OUT double. Ya all might want to turn over to TBS to watch some real baseball.

By N8

June 1, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

FloridaBrave

“I love how everything is Bobby’s fault.”

The play on the field is NOT Bobby’s fault. The fact that the lineup has not changed (like the mediocre play), IS Bobby’s fault. Look up the definition of insanity, if you don’t believe me.

If you have a puppy that craps on the carpet when you leave the house. That is not your fault. But if you consistently leave that puppy out of a kennel when leaving the house, that is your fault.

“Anyone ever just think we’re a mediocre team?”

I’ve been saying if for 2+ seasons. You’re barking up the wrong tree.

“And, no, going back home and winning some games won’t change my opinion. I refuse to get excited about this season again until we start winning games on the road.”

Keep in mind, I got lambasted by DOB after the last “successful” home-stand for predicting this horrible road-trip, and REFUSING to get excited about the team, based on the home/road splits this season.

This team will end up with 85 wins MAXIMUM by the end of the year, if it stays as it is currently constructed (and that includes Smoltz and Gonzo coming back).

If some drastic measures are not taking with the every day 8 and the order in which they hit, NOTHING is gonna change.

By CHRIS

June 1, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

I’ve come to grip with something, that all yall eff-ing couch potato losers dont know jack about baseball (especiall N8). This team is not mediocre, they are great, yall are just mediocre fans.

By Carroll Rogers

June 1, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

strained left hamstring for hudson, more serious than i thought. he’ll be re-evaluated tomorrow in Atlanta.

Also will have to see about Blaine, who came out in the seventh inning. he’s had shoulder problems in the past, so you don’t like to see him leave a game. But i’ll let you know what i find out on that one.

By N8

June 1, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

To those that praise Bobby and would NEVER question his “ability”.

Why the double standard?

By that, I mean, why is he “the best” manager when the talent does their job on the field, (mainly 3 HOF starters in his rotation)?

Yet, when the team fails, it’s NOT his fault?

The nature of his job is that he is ultimately responsible for ALL the results (meaning wins and losses), or NONE of it.

Time for the Bobby fans to pick which way they want it to be.

By Crabby Bill

June 1, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

Andy your case has a hole or two in it.The GM would have to be a pre-cog and see the future to fire Cox BEFORE the two disappointing seasons.I do think Bobby has given his best to the organization and everybody would be best served by new blood.I understand the equity he has earned though.

By FloridaBrave

June 1, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

N8,

Replacing Greg Norton with Josh Anderson isn’t the difference between mediocrity and greatness. Nor is starting a rookie with numerous hole sin his swing- Blanco- in the leadoff spot.

CHRIS,

The team is 29-28. That’s not great. That’s mediocre.

By N8

June 1, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

CHRIS

Thanks for your opinion. But if you think this team is great, then I don’t even need to insult you back. You’ve made yourself look more stupid than ANYTHING I can say about you.

Well done.

By Efrim

June 1, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

Pretty bad week for the Braves. Very bad indeed. Maybe the turning point in the season if Hudson is seriously hurt. They could of just gone from buyer to seller if the guy has to miss 4-6 weeks or something like that.

By Random

June 1, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

Austin: “I am a Braves fan not a “baseball” fan.”

Austin: “This team is borderline pathetic.”

Austin: “Oh and Random

“Shutup. Maybe I am too young to understand.”

By Crabby Bill

June 1, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

Chris I agree I’m a mediocre fan.I’m not delusional though and any objective person can see this team is missing the intangible ingredients needed to be champions.

By CHRIS

June 1, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

FloridaBrave,

The team is 29-28 with the longest disabled list in baseball. And yall bash Cox for the job he has done. We are only top three in pitching, batting, and fielding. If you dont think the team is gonna come around, its because you are an idiot and have never stepped foot on the field before.

By Andy

June 1, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

I say lets get rid of all the veterans, and trade them for some good young players. Lets just start over fresh. Maybe we’ll be good in 5-6 years.

By ncscoots

June 1, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

It appears nathan should break out his Dutch oven and start cooking. A single bowl of sad won’t be enough, considering how many of you folks are holding spoons at the ready, LOL.

Wait. I’m sensing something. Yes, there it is…Psychic Network will be hiring an entire cadre of Braves/MIB bloggers, the ones who are able to foresee the autumn future of baseball teams no later than June 1. :-) O’Brien may win awards, but THIS will REALLY put the blog on the map!

By Andy

June 1, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

How in the world can the Braves be in the top 3 in pitching, batting, and fielding and have a 29-28 record ?????????????

By FloridaBrave

June 1, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

It’s hard to picture the Braves to be sellers)although if we do start to suck, it might be good for our future to deal Tex…but I digress.) I just hope the Braves don’t throw 5 prospects at a pitcher a year and a half away from FA because they were in a panic over Hudson’s injury. Not that I’m going back and crapping on the Tex deal, but we’re going to be a team in transition- if we aren’t already- and we need to start being a little more careful when trading away our prospects.

Even if Hudson’s ok, I’d have to see some serious improvement on the road before I start throwing around trade scenarios involving our top prospects.

By N8

June 1, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Florida Brave

“Replacing Greg Norton with Josh Anderson isn’t the difference between mediocrity and greatness. Nor is starting a rookie with numerous hole sin his swing- Blanco- in the leadoff spot”

I actually agree with you. But here’s the thing. We already play GREAT at home. I’m not looking for GREAT on the road. I’d be happy with MEDIOCRE on the road.

Blanco batting leadoff (or Anderson, with Blanco hitting 8th), might be enough to spark some mediocre ball on the road, thus making this team GREAT when combined with their home success.

But being the best team in MLB at home, and the worst team on the road, gives us the end result of a MEDIOCRE team overall.

I don’t think that Blanco or Anderson are long-term solutions (even within this season), to the offensive problems we have on the road.

But they are BOTH better short-term (while Kotsay is out - or until a trade is made), than Norton is. Or do you disagree?

I’m sure Bobby would say that Anderson is only here in the case of emergency (while Kotsay is out), not to start.

Well you know what? Losing 5 of 6 on the road to two teams that were below .500 BEFORE they played us, is borderline emergency, IMO.

Sometimes drastic times, call for drastic measures.

While Blanco does have “holes” in his swing (can’t argue there), he has speed. He CAN (and would) make some things happen, more so than Norton (if Anderson were to start).

While his BA has dropped a bit in recent weeks (.237 past 14 days), his on base percentage during that time is STILL .375.

During the same stretch (14 days) Escobar’s OBP is .339, and in the past 28 days, Escobar’s OBP is .330.

Now don’t get me wrong, based on the numbers Yunel had last year in the lead-off spot (along with KJ’s struggles), I thought Yunel was a better option at lead-off than KJ.

But, based on the past 28 days, a guy with a .330 OBP should NOT be occupying the lead off spot.

Ultimately, what I’m saying, is that Bobby needs to shake it up a bit.

The old saying says: “If it ain’t broke…..don’t fix it”.

Well guess what….On the road, IT’S BROKE. Fix it. Or at least try.

By ijonathan

June 1, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

CHRIS

If we are “only top three in pitching, batting and fielding” why then are we only 29-28?

The answers of course are the ever-popular “luck” or the more probably “Cox” factor.

By uga-brave

June 1, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

when your starting outfielders hit in the 6,7, and 8 holes you might have a problem.

what a mail in job today.

braves probably have the worst offensive outfield in the n.l.

By Mediocre fan

June 1, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Chris,I really enjoyed your defense of Britney Spears on Youtube.

By facefacts

June 1, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

I say let’s get rid of Bobby Cox. (I have felt this way for some time).

It is very possible that these players need a kick in the butt not a pat on the back.

I would love to see what would happen under a more results-oriented skipper.

By monty

June 1, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

Run back to Atlanta with your tail between your legs! Back to the protective arms of the Ted! Instead of road warriors, we have road wimps! Blame Boyers arm problems on BC. He has used him too much recently without enough rest in between. His throwing motion even yesterday was different, trying to heave it instead of his usual crisp pop with his wrist.

By Jason

June 1, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

Bring Andruw back !!

By FloridaBrave

June 1, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

CHRIS,

I’m not a Cox basher so don’t lump me in that category.

If you think I said this team would never come out of it, then you’re the idiot. I said this team is mediocre right now. Which they are.

But this team has been relying heavily on injury prone guys and guys over 40. When you are, you have to expect injuries to occur.

This team also relies heavily on some really young guys, thus our streaky play.

But the talent is there and they can snap out of it. Whether or not they will…we’ll see.

By Chop Chop

June 1, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

I would rather delve into the supernatural realm to explain this team’s problems. Quite simply, the Braves are cursed. Any other explanation is insufficient.

N8,

This team has been underwhelming the last three seasons. It only takes a rational fan to realize it. You can post and post and post, but your insight is not so difficult to obtain. (I know you know that. That’s one reason why you post as much as you do. You can’t believe the blinders that some fans where.)

I wanted Bobby Cox out of here back in 2002 or so. It took me a few years to realize that he’d never be held accountable for any kind of postseason failure. It’s taken a season or two for me to realize he’d never be held accountable for any regular season failures. At this point, I’m just waiting for Bobby’s days to be done so we can see how the next guy fares. He’s had a great run, but this team is not what it once was. C’est la vie. It is time to move on.

By Ray

June 1, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

FloridaBrave

Well said. It’s as though we are maniacally rummaging through our medicine cabinet in search of a band-aid to stop the bleeding. The ailments that plague this team, however, are more serious than that. It’s not the bunting, the line-ups, the untimely hitting—and it’s not a fluke either.

It’s just, simply, the Braves of the post Maddux/Glavine era.

Some teams just don’t add up to the sum of their parts. On paper, the Braves are a contender—on the field, they are mediocre.

Will they go home and win 4 of the next 6? Yes. Will they then drop 4 of the next 6 on the road? Yes. Or maybe at some point this year, they will go on a tear in other ball parks—and then, magically, they won’t be able to win at the Ted.

This is just the Braves way, now.

A teeter totter that must abide by the rules of gravity and physics.

When some new blood in infused into the franchise, they will become a different team. Perhaps not even a very good one, but different.

Right now, I’ll take that. Whether it’s dreams or something wicked this way comes—at least it’s not THIS anymore.

By Bravesfan

June 1, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Lets face it, the Braves will NEVER get rid of Bobby Cox. The Braves could lose 100 games and they would sign him to a 5 year contract.

By fastasballs

June 1, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

Pass me that bowl of sad N8, think I’ll have a few spoonfuls after watching this series.

Although I wasn’t surprised, but I was VERY disappointed by their effort this weekend.

Has a team ever been this good at home, but this bad on the road? So which is the fluke, the home or road record? One is going to change, almost has to.

If Hudson is out any length of time I really don’t see how they will compete for the division anyway.

By N8

June 1, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

CHRIS

“If you dont think the team is gonna come around, its because you are an idiot and have never stepped foot on the field before.”

Why is somebody an idiot, because of an opinion they have about something that they enjoy, like baseball?

Why does one ever have had to “stepped foot on the field before” to form an opinion?

DOB is not a musician, and has never stepped foot on a stage in a bar, large club, nor arena. Yet he is allowed to form an opinion about the music he likes (Johnny Cash), and doesn’t (Whitesnake).

Baseball, like music is nothing more than entertainment.

If ALL OF US on the blog weren’t fans of baseball in general and more importantly the Braves (or other teams in the NL East), we wouldn’t be here. Period.

If you wanna argue with other bloggers. Fine. In fact it’s welcome. But calling other bloggers idiots because we never played baseball is silly.

In fact, I’ll go out on a limb and take a guess that if ONLY people that “stepped on the field” were allowed to be baseball fans, their wouldn’t be many people at the games, paying for the “Extra Innings” package, much less spending time on a blog talking about it with other fans of varying opinions.

Besides. If you’re gonna call somebody an idiot. At least have the MIB/Braves Blog, etiquette to phrase it properly. For not at least knowing how to do that, my friend, you’re the idiot.

By Im Not aBravesFan

June 1, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

Silver lining is they lost by 4 and not 1. When will the braves stop taking “dives” on the road?

By FloridaBrave

June 1, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

N8,

I agree Blanco and Anderson could provide a spark, but a spark is just that. Some short-term energy which may or may not fix anything. I would like to see Anderson over Norton but I don’t think the difference is substantial enough to blame Cox for all of our road worries for not pulling off the move. What I would do is drop Kelly to 7th to deepen our lineup because right now we’re rolling 6 deep, if that. I’d keep Yunel in the leadoff spot mostly out of necessity. But he’s still a darn fine ball player who’ll snap out of it. I’d then put Blanco in the two hole. Because he’s left-handed and fats, he’ll stay out of double plays and his bunt prowess would be better suited in the 2 hole in order to move over Escobar when on base. Anderson would bat 8th and surely run a lot to spark some things at the bottom.

By Austin

June 1, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

You are 10 times the blogger that I am. No question about it. But I can say I did stay up till 4,5,6 in the morning in Germany during the school year to watch the Braves. I have no doubt you are a huge Braves fan. It’s just hard for me to understand how you cant get any fun out of a loss. I respect you and your opinions greatly. ROLL TIDE

By BrucePearl

June 1, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

N8; Let me do the honor: CHRIS, your and idiot

By Interested Observer

June 1, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

I see Morgan Ensberg was DFA’d by the Yankees. Let’s see, a veteren pinch hitter…batting around .200….has played first and third… Sounds like our next starting left fielder to me!

By N8

June 1, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop

“At this point, I’m just waiting for Bobby’s days to be done so we can see how the next guy fares. He’s had a great run, but this team is not what it once was. C’est la vie. It is time to move on.”

Couldn’t have said it better myself. As I’ve stated before, I don’t have a “Robert type” hatred for Bobby.

I’m just ready for something new, and I fully understand the ramifications that they may bring. Meaning that with a new manager, it might get worse before it gets better.

It’s not that these games aren’t entertaining, because ultimately they are. Even when they lose all the 1-run games. The games are tight, and semi-fun to watch.

Like Braveheart said last night, MANY little stories within the big picture to follow and “remember” after all is said and done.

But these Braves road games are like a bad Steven Segal movie. I’ve seen it before, and can guess the ending about a half hour past the opening credits.

I just want a new movie to watch.

By Ray

June 1, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

I’d like to hold in abeyance the opinion I blogged the other day concerning Mike Hampton not being needed—I couldn’t have foreseen Huddy’s hammy acting up.

Just not Chuck James again. He’s like the Jason Vorhees of Camp Tomahawk, coming back to kill us over and over again. Please…

Not.

Chuck.

James.

By jbutler

June 1, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

Hey Carol..nice to have you along for a spell, even if your good luck didn’t quite work as well this time…always the voice of reason.

Once again, being in blackout-land in the Rockies I didn’t get to see the game, just didn’t know why Boyer left so quickly. Didn’t realize it was a possible injury. Bad news indeed.

Any thoughts on how the roster will shape up when JS is activated tomorrow? Maybe injuries will take care of any moves needing to be made. Ick.

N8 I’m in totally agreement of your smackdown of Chris. Truly. Just because you haven’t walked in their exact shoes doesn’t mean you don’t have a valid, reasoned argument. Not every argument is..but on the flipside- not everyone isn’t. You can really extrapolate that argument into any area of interest…but point well made!

By Dan in NJ

June 1, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

Questions.

1. When will it EVER be B.Cox fault??? Seems like all the BC lovers NEVER find anything that goes wrong with this team to be his fault.

2. When do you think it IS time for a change??? IT happens ALL the time in ALL sports, ALL teams. Except the Braves. (worst one ever IMO was Tony Dungy getting fired from the TB bucs) point is it happens to the best of’em

So i guess all the BC lovers are just fine with this bs…same lineups and same relievers and same results day in day out.???

Now as for Blanco batting leadoff. What he did today, breaking up a no-no with a bunt single, was just a sample of what he is capable of doing. Works the count, Knows how to bunt, Has Speed, Nice OBP, Pretty good AVE. WHY NOT try him out and see what happens. instead of going with what HAS NOT worked for some time now.?

By Austin

June 1, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

Bobby needs to go. Bottom line.

I really think given the stats and attributes my mom could put together a better lineup than Cox.

By CHRIS

June 1, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

N8,

I read this blog for DOB’s extra information on my favorite team and never post. So I sit here at work and read this crap that most of yall post about how Bobby needs to go, the team sucks, throw the season away after 10, 20, 60 games, etc. I finally reached the point where I cant take it anymore. Not only has Bobby kept this team in a position to make a run at the post season with a huge disabled list, makeshift bullpen, two rookie starters, etc. but every person in the major leagues says he’s the best their is. So forgive me for not agreeing with your unvalid opinion, but I’ll agree with the pros.

By Dadgum

June 1, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Folks before the season started we all prertty much had a starting rotation of: Smoltz-no longer in the rotation Hudson-average to date(now injured) Glavine-average to poor James-no longer in rotation Hampton-never in rotation

It is now clear after the road meltdown that this Braves team has potential but not the starting pitching to sustain them into the deep summer schedule. The Braves must trade for a quality starter. NOW!!! They may have to part with a quality middle infielder to achieve that along with a prospect.

Milwaukee and Cincy were big tests for the Braves and they flunked. It isn’t all the starers fault for sure but since pitching is key and given the injuries the Braves have no choice.

Rock on…..

By Chop Chop

June 1, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

N8,

If you saw the “Steven Seagal in Indian dress speaking about the dangers of pollution” ending coming, then YOU, sir, are a better man than I.

By Im Not aBravesFan

June 1, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox, nice like Torre, just not as successful. If rings are the determining factor of a winner in baseball, Bobby Cox will always be second to whoever he faces in the big game.

By Tommy Bowden

June 1, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

I’ve come to the conclusion that when any Braves pitcher takes the mound an EMT should be in the vicinity along with an Evavuation Helicopter from a local hospital. There should also be an ambulance along the 3rd baseline as well as a team of trauma specialists from Emory.

Kind of like an FSU football game. When the team buses pull up before the game they are accompanied by an ambulance, pathologist, cardiologist, urologist and lurking nearby an ME.

By Carroll Rogers

June 1, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

hudson said the hamstring strain is minor and he doesn’t think he’ll miss any starts…..boyer hurt his right knee. he said doctors told him it’s structurally good but he’s going to have it checked out tomorrow with an MRI to be sure.

By Lou Vales

June 1, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

Has anyone else noticed that Bobby Cox is starting to make Kirstie Alley look like Jennifer Aniston??

Bobby, With a waistline like that you are looking for numerous cardiovascular problems. There has also been a correlation established between male obesity and early onset senile dementia. I have not even mentioned cholesterol and glucose difficulties.

Lose some weight!! You’re on national TV nightly. Be an example!!

By N8

June 1, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

CHRIS

Well done. THAT is how you argue a stance on the MIB blog.

I have no problem with that opinion and you angle.

“I read this blog for DOB’s extra information on my favorite team and never post.”

That’s a lie. MANY days, I only read DOB’s (or Carroll’s) posts, to get the scoop on things. So I see where you are coming from.

But if that were true with you, you wouldn’t have a clue what else was going on with the other bloggers.

Just admit it. You read it all, don’t you?

”. I finally reached the point where I cant take it anymore.”

So have I, when it comes to Bobby.

It’s come over the previous 381 games. During that time span Bobby Cox’s team has gone 192-189. With MANY talented players available.

We’ve won division titles in the past with MUCH greater players than Peter Moylan out for the season. So take your injury theory and throw it away.

That is, unless you are willing to concede that before 2006, the Braves had more talent, than they do right now?

See my 4:00 post. Which is it? This team is talented and Bobby is doing a poor job of managing it. Or the team isn’t that talented, meaning Bobby wasn’t as responsible for the 14 year division title streak as the GREAT players on the field were?

I’m not saying Bobby sucks. Or he’s lost his “ability” to lead a team. I’m not saying that he wasn’t a GREAT manager of personalities and egos on some LOADED teams in the 90’s (him and Joe Torre are the best at that - or do you think Willie Randolph is handling the Mets as well as Bobby would?).

What I’m saying, is that with this core of players, Bobby hasn’t been able to get the job done.

It’s time for a change, IMO. It’s not as though I’m suggesting putting the old timer to sleep.

Just need some new blood.

Or have you completely missed what Joe Maddon has done for the Rays? You know, the ones who were previously led by Lou Pinella (another guy thought of in baseball circles as a pretty good manager)?

Change isn’t always bad. Why are so many people afraid of it? Say for instance, the people spelling doom for the Braves without Andruw Jones roaming CF. That’s really killed us, hasn’t it?

By I dont watch road games

June 1, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

the Wilpons and the GM had a meeting with Willie and the Met’s start winning ,wonder if ownership would drag Bobby Cox’s fat belly in for a meeting that would fix the Braves? I doubt it Bobby is like a God so it dont care if they win or loose

By N8

June 1, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop

Fair enough. I didn’t see THAT coming.

By TennesseePaul

June 1, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

That Jay Bruce is amazing.

To bad the Braves suck on the road. Ain’t no other way to say it. When they’re on the road, they absolutely suck.

And now Chipper has only 2 hits in his last 12 at bats.

I hope Hudson and Boyer heal up well.

By I dont watch road games

June 1, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

Who cares about Blain the Brain Boyer ,he sucks as a pitcher anyway

By Lou Vales

June 1, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

Dear N8, Bravo!!!! Plus if Bobby is replaced we could get him into a program at Duke University. Didn’t work for Hank Goldberg who remains a fat slob, but Bobby has more discipline.

Could you imagine him storming out of hos room to argue with the nurse when she brings him his lettuce and cucumbers for dinner. He will probably kick over the salad bar.

By T

June 1, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

America’s Most Frustrating Team just adds to it’s title.

I am so sick of watching this team on the road. It seems as if they they don’t care, they don’t extend their effort, they don’t do anything different to try and spark a different result.

“Staying the course” will continue to produce the same mediocre results earned up until now. I’ve never seen so many injuries to a pitching staff. When does the question become “Are these pitchers in shape?” UGH!

By BravesRule

June 1, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

It is safe to say again, we need a leadoff hitter…It is becomeing clearly evident Yunel isnt the best option to lead off.M

No no tell me that can’t be true. Why just a couple of weeks ago dozens of posters here were cussin’ Bobby for not using Yunel as the leadoff hitter cause they KNEW he was the best possible leadoff hitter on the team and Bobby was a senile old fool for not batting him there. So I’m sure that you must be mistaken. No way our resident experts would post something that wasn’t ironclad fact.

Oops now it’s Blanco who is the best no-fail leadoff hitter, according to those same experts, no matter that his BA is already slowly coming down in the 8 slot. Buncha fr1ckin’ morons.

By Chubby Checker

June 1, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

Dear I Don’t Watch Road Games, To refer to Bobby’s belly as “fat” is an insult to fat bellies everywhere. Call him corpulent, call him obese but “Fat” does not capture the former Yankee third baseman.

By I dont watch road games

June 1, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

Braves = tax write off

By Cardiologist In Cairo

June 1, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

Bobby makes Jabba the Hut look like the “After” in a Weight Watcher’s Commercial.

MLB should allow him to wear a “Mama Cass” label pair of stretch pants.

By Ed

June 1, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

The leadoff spot seems to be a killer for good hitters. I think Gregor Blanco would excel there. Put Escobar back at # 2 and K. Johnson # 8.

By RN In Rome

June 1, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

Here I thought that I was the only one to view Bobby as disgusting. I swear everytime he runs out of the dugout I’m fearful of a cardiac event.

Help the man. He is eating himself into oblivion.

By Austin

June 1, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

Bobby is probably the best “players” manager in the league no doubt. But that doesn’t always translate into winning. IMO he is one of the worst strategic/game managers in all of baseball.

He continues to make horrible pitching moves and does not shake up the lineup. Everybody on the blog is calling for Blanco to lead off. We all know that dosen’t matter, but know Gant and Simpson who know what their talking about agrees with us.

In this series he has pitched Ring and Caryle over Stockman which makes no sense.

How about whoever makes the polls here get some balls and ask if Cox should be fired. That would be very interesting.

By ryan

June 1, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

big trade cox for randoph tired of how players say they like playing for him.sure the hell was nice to tex go from 1st to 3rd was the fist in 2 weeks.

By Brett Butler

June 1, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

Atlanta has some excellent weight loss facilities. For the good of the man’s long term welfare grant him a leave of absence and get him enrolled.

Even if Elmer Fudd had been managing the Braves since 1991 they would have only won 1 less World Series than our Bloated Skipper. Therefore no need to rush his weight loss regimen. Get him down to about 250 and then go from there.

By Amber

June 1, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

I’m going to throw something in here and see if it gets a bite, because I still have no words for this disaster of a road trip.

We have had no news updates on Mike Hampton. I’m a glutton for punishment today, so hit me. No news is bad news - very bad. Isn’t it? If he’s never going to pitch again, then why the HECK is he taking up space on the bench????? What is going on? I’m a big girl - I can handle it. Anyone?

By jbutler

June 1, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

Glad that some have taken the frustration w/the Braves season into personal BC bashing. That’s the garbage that keeps a decent amount of fans away from blogs…And will turn me away pretty quick.

By randyh

June 1, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

with all these injuries, and mostly to the pitching staff, it makes you wonder; are these guys in shape or are they having to play their way in shape ? maybe they will be there by all star break. too many pulls and strains, someone needs to make some demands on the conditioning of these athletes.

By kirknga

June 1, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

Perhaps it’s time we look at the trainer/strength staff. Too many pulls and the like up and down the roster.

Through all the discussion of the pros and cons of keeping Bobby Cox, it struck me that you always hear players say the love playing for him….but you never hear them praise his decision making or tactical skills.

I think that there may be an over-emphasis on “chemistry” and so you don’t see the type of personality types that are going to challenge teammates. As great as Chipper,Smoltz, and Glavine are and have been, they are not the types to tell someone their play is hurting the team.

There seems to be no accountability, not between the players or from Cox.I believe that is why you see a team with talent underperform/underexecute.

Either that or we’ve all misjudged the talent/skill level of this team.

Sorry to be so negative, but as a fan, I just get nothing but misery from losses.

By John Candy

June 1, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

Quit picking on Bobby’s weight.

By Random

June 1, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

So What’s Wrong with Yunel?!?!?

Since I was the first here who brought up the possible negative impact of Brayan Pena’s waiver on Escobar’s performance way back on Mar 10, and was also correct that the Braves would keep him on the ML roster as a third catcher, I sat out last week’s discussions on the issue.

But I’m weighing in now to say that I think that they were right who expressed a similar concern (Spider29, Bravesfan79, MattyRoss, ALAGT, Bravo Nam, Daveinzona & especially Bravesfan79), and that their pooh-poohers (DOB, FloridaBrave, jeff, kirknga, eric the elder, TJ, Chrisklob ,Braveheart, MAV, BA, N8, richbrave, Bobby’s Cox & The Realist) were wrong.

Anyone want to reconsider their position?

Here are some prescient quotes from both sides:

Random: ”To what extent (if any) do you think that Brayan Pena’s and Yunel Escobar’s Cuban connection will enhance Pena’s chances of making the Braves’ Major League roster? I would think it would be a big, if intangible, plus for him, to supplement his positional versatility. If Pena is waived or traded, how much of an impact would you expect that to have on Escobar’s attitude and/or performance?”

DOB: ”Random, I don’t believe Pena’s presence will have anything to do with Escobar’s performance, not at all. And the Braves sure aren’t going to let that effect their decision whether to keep Pena. No way. They’re good friends, but Escobar’s not going to let something like that effect his play. Just look how well he played last year when Pena was down at Richmond.”

Random: ”I think there’ll be a difference for Escobar between Pena being down on the farm and being gone gone, if he is indeed waived or traded.”

DOB: ”Completely overshadowed by all the news is the fact that Escobar is back in the lineup. Yes, he was really down about the Pena news. Just shook his head when I asked him couple questions about it. Long-term effects? No. Can’t see that.”

Bravesfan79: ”Im still worried about the fallout on Escobar because of letting Pena go. Someone unhappy like that is bound to make more mental mistakes, like swinging at bad pitches he dosent usually swing at (saturdays game), or bad baserunning (todays first inning) Ill say it again…. the combo of Penas bat off the bench, and Escobars happiness and focus……WAY Overrides ANYTHING that Corkys .100 average and once a week “defensive speciality” gives us! Now i still think Escobar will be a great player for us, but now who translates for him in the dugout? Who can he now talk to when he makes a error or is in a slump?”

Braveheart: ”Unless, for some reason, you think Escobar is gonna turn into Dennis Rodman overnight and you need Pena to be his Jack Haley, there is no need for Pena. Escobar seemed to do just fine last season without Pena around.”

And finally from the ever humorless but precociously precognitive chrisklob:

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

(Give him a break guys — at least he was trying to be funny. Seriously, that was his finest attempt at sarcasm to date.)

By Bobby's Cox

June 1, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

It’s been a long season already and there’s still 106 games to play. Many avid baseball fans love the sport because of the drama and following of players over a long season. This Braves team has been more exciting than any in that regard.

The problems in the starting rotation looks as though they’re starting to take its toll on the bullpen with Boyer now having arm issues. I sadly believe this has been in the braves plans to overuse the bullpen this year. Cox, or was it Wren, admitted about a week ago it was their plan. With Stockman and Ridgway still available, and Smoltz and Gonzo coming back, the management decisions have shown no regards to the long term health of its bullpens arms, allowing them to tire in time for the new wave of arms that become available. All of the decisions point to this reasoning, including not pitching Stockman when he was called up….save his arm for when the others fall off.

There has been a lot of mismanagement of this team as this season has unfolded, but it started before the season started, bringing 3 catchers north, trading for a stop gap injury prone CF at the expense of a #1 draft pick reliever who was showing signs of turning the corner, trading good young trade bait for a 1B who we new we wouldn’t resign and therefor knew was also going to be a stop gap guy. Imagine if we got Voloquez from Texas instead of Tex for less players, and still had enough to offer Oakland for Haren.

It’s odd to me that the roster moves indicate a “win now” mentality, yet the lack of lineup moves implemented by Cox when a change is dearly needed implicates a sense of patience. The bloggers here have demanded for changes that have worked long before they have been implemented by Cox. For instance, moving KJ down in the order and putting Esco at the top. It worked. With the expected injury to Kotsay, now it appears Anderson needs to play CF, hit leadoff or 8th, move Esco back to 2nd, KJ back to 7th, and Blanco 8th or leadoff in LF, yet Cox continues to start Norton in left which depletes our bench. How many more games go until this happens? When the moves are made will Anderson prove to us that we shouldn’t have traded Devine for Kotsay? Stay tuned.

One last thought: If getting rid of Pena truly is affecting Esco, which probably isn’t the issue but maybe, then keep in mind that we released a solid hitting backup catcher for Corky Miller. Yikes. Is catching defense really that important when he plays once a week? Management has shown a passion for veteran presence and i’m afraid their cold feet in showing faith in the young is backfiring.

Sorry for the long post, just a little frustrated like most of you.

By ncscoots

June 1, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

[Gant and Simpson] know what their talking about

That “whoosh” you hear is the sound of your credibility fleeing out the window.

Holy Cornelia.

By Jim Scott

June 1, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

jbutler, You believe it is personal bashing to try to get a man to lose some weight and possibly save his life?? Are you insane???

By Steven Segall

June 1, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

Lose Some Weight!!!

Lose Some Weight!!!

Lose Some Weight!!

By Lou Vales

June 1, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

Amber, Michael Hampton from Brooksville, Florida has about as much chance of contributing to the Braves as Amelia Erhart and Jimmy Hoffa. They are all gone!!! Missing in Action!!! Kaput!!!!!

By Crabby Bill

June 1, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

To Bobby’s Cox and many (too many) others.Why send those overly long redundant post ? How many people read to the end of those things ? Almost invariably you make your point in the first 50 words yet your ego keeps typing,enough is plenty.

By Canuckbravesfan

June 1, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

Ray No need to worry about Chuck James being brought up any time soon. On disabled list at Richmond. I’m sure the next SP to get called up will be Charlie Morton. The Phil Stockman thing amazes me. He has been very good in his 3 appearances-4.1 Ip 1H 0 ER 2BB 6K but has not pitched since last Sunday. Does anyone know why ??

By John Candy

June 1, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

crabby bill, Don’t use that name around Bobby. He will think you’re talking crabcakes. Fortunately an MLB team’s per diem is pretty high or you would have Bobby searching out Pancake Houses late at night.

By Efrim

June 1, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

I heard Ken Rosenthal talk about the Braves asking for Joe Blanton. He may be young, and still not in his arbitration years, but the guy is as overrated as any pitcher in baseball. A horse. But do we really need to trade any of our 5 best prospects for this guy? I bet you Beane asked for Jason Heyward and Tommy Hanson, if not more. Not sure how everyone else feels about it. I just think the team needs to access the market for a young starter this offseason. Not during the season when Billy Beane can fleece a desperate Frank Wren. Although I’m not sure FW will ever get desperate.

By tbo

June 1, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

What the hell is wrong with the upper management of the Braves? That idiot BC has been ruining this team for the last 3 years. Can they not see it? The way he handles the bullpen, the insistence to keep the same lineups that are not working, the inability of the team to execute fundamental baseball like bunting, hitting the cuttoff man, etc. My God! Of course, the Yankees top would have run the fast %$&^*#( off 2 years ago. Open your eyes!! I am sick of it.

By eric the elder

June 1, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this

Random, in your 5:56, I am flattered that you would include me in the list of some of the best of our bloggers.

I never aspired to that honor nor do I deserve it. Yet I accept it.

By Mike

June 1, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

The Braves are not good at all.They have to many problems.The only person seem to be consistent on the whole team is chipper and Maccan.I fill sorry for the guys being on a team as bad as the braves.The Braves are going to have to spend money to compete with the top teams.GO REDSOX!!!

By bf54

June 1, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

Thank you RICHBRAVE for your “Down on the Farm”. I’m lookin’ to the future, as I don’t want to go large with either Tex or Frenchie (he—yes, I’m serious)- this team doesn’t is solid, but there are problems with the current team, let’s be honest! Tex is producing, but nowhere near what Boras will want. Francouer isn’t, but will still want (and get, hopefully elsewhere, a big contract.

Sounds like I’m ready to blow the team up? No, not really, but it has been written and conceded that this was ‘our last best chance’ for awhile, and I think “awhile” has a ticket on the Titanic. Nothing encourages me for more than a game or two.

I believe it sank in weeks ago that Hampton does just enough to fulfill his contract, but truth be known, he has no intention of ever throwing in a game again. We didn’t know that before, gave him the benefit of the doubt.

We are, thankfully, seeing the brilliant sunsets of the careers of Glavine and Smoltz.

(Some sentimentalists on the blog - and in a better season I would join in the ‘feel good’- want to bring Maddox back. But to paraphrase Rick Pittino’s rant with the Celtics’ - “get over it, Bird, McHale and Parrish ain’t walkin’ through the door”).

I have been hard on BC - but, while not the manager he once was, he doesn’t pitch, hit, or field. These are professional players, they don’t need a guru, or a certain uniform to be able to mount a rally, or hold a lead. This team bobbles the ball, gives up the gopher, and grounds into the dp. Bobby to his credit has experimented with his line up.

Pitching - the so-called Name of the Game - despite the injuries has been great. Speed non-existent, batting very, very good, except when you really, really need it.

The team blew itself up. Sorry, but I have the bloggers right to call it as I see it. I see a max of 8-10 games over .500 at best, and .500 at worst.

So, yes, the farm is important, and, again, my thanks to RichBrave.

By TJ

June 1, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this

So What’s Wrong with Yunel?!?!?

Random, are you really suggesting that the Braves should base their personnel decisions on who Yunel’s best friend is? We should’ve kept a guy that even the offensively-challenged Kansas City Royals DFA’s after about 3 days?

It’s sad that his good friend was cut. It may be a distraction for a while, but that “while” is about up. He’s a professional making over $400K a year at 25 years of age.

If he’s gonna mope about this, then we should trade him while his value is high, because he obviously lacks the emotional makeup to succeed longterm. It’s his career that hangs in the balance, not the future success of the Atlanta Braves franchise.

I really doubt that’s the problem. But if it is, he needs to “get over it”, and soon.

By SNIPER-69

June 1, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

I guess the braves beleive the hometown hype. Which explains why they only play well at home. Anyway, after tonite the braves and Mets will have the same record. But while you may be losing Hudson we get Pedro back on Tuesday….LETS GO METS!!!

By TURTSNAP

June 1, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

First off, clean slate, same results. Secondly, I don’t know that it being June is such a good thing, I think June has been an unkind month for the Braves the past two years. Another sub-par June this year, and it’s “wait till next year”.

By brian

June 1, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this

Heyward is and should be untouchable.

By Lew

June 1, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

Snipper-Think Pedro will make it more than three innings this time? Will he retire when he doesn’t?

By h_charles

June 1, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

Escobar is definitelty unhappy right now. It is certainly affecting his play. Not sure if its Pena or having to bat leadoff with his obvious lack of comfort there, but right now he is really hurting this team.

Cox may no longer have what it takes. Philosophically, one can debate his refusal to play smallball (notice how it changed yesterday when he got thrown out?). Still, that is debatable at least. Say we give him a pass there.

Player loyalty is also debatable, and stubborness in keeping Escobar at leadoff, not moving KJ down in the order, etc. This has positives though. He stuck with KJ after the 0-27 start, and to his credit. Perhaps give him a pass there to.

However, his management of the bullpen and starters really borders on negligence. He yanks JJ pitching well in the 5th, but always let’s Hudson hang himself.

He pitches Bennett every day. He lets others gather dust in the pen for weeks on end.

There is little rhyme or reason, and it almost seems that he has no memory of who pitched the day before.

Guys go out to the mound overtired or underworked.

I’m not sure this issue can be justified. I’d love someone else’s take here — I really am starting to wonder if he hasn’t lost “it”. Even baseball’s best lose it some day. Everyone has to retire eventually. Perhaps it is time.

By Yars

June 1, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this

Wren needs to make some moves if this Braves team has any chance of reaching the postseason. This current roster we have has holes, obviously. With the NL East being a 4 team race, & yes, I do believe the Fish are for real. I can’t be the only one. Phils & Mets aren’t going to disappear anytime soon either. Yunel in a slump right now, that’s all. It has nothing to do with B. Pena or hitting in the leadoff spot. KJ is striking out way too *ucking much. Some of the pitches he’s been swinging at are mind boggling. I would like to see Bobby give Anderson some starts in CF/LF. Why the *uck not? It’s not like Blanco, Norton, & Infante are hitting machines. Hit Anderson leadoff, Yunel in the #2 hole, & move KJ back to #7, or put KJ #6 & Frenchy #7.

By ijonathan

June 1, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

Nice post, h_charles.

Too bad there’s no “headset” in baseball, linking the manager to his “coordinators” up in the booth. If there were, we could just take it away from Bobby, as has been the case with Grandpa Bowden at FSU for years. Then Bobby could focus on the “people management” side of the game, and waddling out to argue fruitlessly…er I mean inspire the troops…every few games.

Unfortunately there is no headset in baseball.

By Efrim

June 1, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

I never thought Escobar would slug a ton, but he has a slugging percentage that is now under 400. Gotta get the ball in the air a bit. His OPS is down to 750.

Good to hear that Hudson’s injury isn’t serious. If it was, I’m not sure the Braves would be able to hang around. I know the Mets are inconsistent and the Marlins are overrated, but the Phillies are taking off despite their starting pitching problems. Their bullpen is very good. The Lidge trade was the right move.

Jeff played better the last two days, hopefully that is a sign of things to come for the month of June. We could really use him and Tex to provide consistent pop.

This homestand is pretty important. Division rivals looking down on us. It would be nice to win both series(5-2) and be at 34-30 before the 10 game road trip.

By Metropolitan Man

June 1, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

Not trying to get in braves business but watching the fallout from the Willie saga in NY got me thinking. I have a new found respect for Bobby after witnessing what can happen when management, the players, or the fans turn against you. It magnifies everyhting negative that goes on with a ballclub. Here is a fluff piece on your manager, where is the loyalty to Bobby you had during the 14 year run?
Ok, I’m back now….

LETS GO METS AND DOWN WITH THE BRAVES.

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/8184436/Cox’s-respect-and-desire-have-never-left

By ijonathan

June 1, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

h_charles…you asked for a take, so here it is.

My hunch is that if you were to set up some “logical” parameters for pitching staff/bullpen management (i.e. using your long guys for extended stints every few days and/or when the score dictates, giving guys a rest after a couple of days of straight work, not using your 1 or 2 situational lefties in a blowout, etc.) and applied that to Cox’s management, it woudl completely run counter to that model.

By Carroll Rogers

June 1, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

Amber, I updated Hampton in the notes yesterday. He’s been throwing without pain on flat ground. Might get up on the mound next homestand for a side session, but nothing really matters a ton until he faces hitters. that’s when he turns it up and that’s when the pec has started hurting in the past. wouldn’t count on him for a while. i know, a day like today, you guys are grabbing at stuff. don’t blame you.

jbutler, i’d say your hunch is right. that one of those injuries today is what will create room for smoltz on the roster. between the two, i’d say boyer. he’s having an MRI tomorrow on his knee and hudson didn’t seem to think his hamstring was a real big issue. i’m sure doctors will look at it tomorrow too, but he’s at least got time between starts to rest. back of the bullpen relievers don’t have that luxury.

i’m at the airport in cincy (the lovely concourse C where you gotta bus to for crying out loud), too cheap to pay $50 to get on an earlier flight. my killer record with the braves went right out the window this trip, getting sucked into the black hole of this road losing thing. it’s got some serious pull!

did want to tell you guys that mccann was once again showing fire today, which i believed some appreciated on the blog last night. the reason he and hairston got into it in the seventh inning, jawing at each other at the plate, is because according to both mccann and blanco, hairston got on blanco for bunting for a base hit when cueto had a no-hitter going.

blanco actually told me hairston said “we might hit you (with a pitch)” when he got to second base. so mccann was sticking up for blanco and rightly so. i know there are unwritten rules on these kinds of things but the braves were trying to win the game and bunts are part of blanco’s game. as mccann said “it’s not like i was up there trying to bunt.” now that would have been something! just thought i’d share that nugget.

this airport wireless is a little faulty and not sure how much more bloggin i’ll be doing tonight. but kudos that it’s not total bitching on here tonight, some thoughtful posts mixed in with the bobby rants. he was peeved today people, after the game. this stuff is killing him, i can tell you.

oh and before i go, thought i’d give chipper’s response when asked if the team should have some kind of closed-door meeting about this: “Getting mad doesn’t do anything. all that does is make people madder. Frustratrion level is at an all-time high. But fighting amongst ourselves and confronting people about their play is not the way to do it. it’s just going to make things worse.”

hey, sorry for the long post. beginning to see how my editors feel?

By Yunel's Pet

June 1, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this

I got released again by the lowly KC Royals. They plan on sneaking me through waivers in a 72 hour period and then hide me in the minors as insurance in case Olivo leaves at the end of the season.

I really need a biscuit. Could you foreward this to Yunel? Maybe Bobby has some sugarcubes stashed away with his carrots?

If Yunel really misses his wing b*tch, uh man, he has not even called me.

By Austin

June 1, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

ncscoots

In no way was I implying that Simpson and Gant are aristotles, but they both have been in major league clubhouses and know that a lineup shakeup needs to take place.

By brent a.

June 1, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

Florida Brave:

Missed your retort last night - yes, I am basing Tex’s performance on what he’s done so far this year.

HE IS SO DRAMATICALLY BETTER FROM THE LEFT-SIDE THIS SEASON, that it seems to be the logical conclusion base pitching decisions upon his current left-handed performance, and not what he did in the past.

Maybe as the season progresses, things will change; but right now, Tex is a big threat from the left-side, and not much of anything from the right side.

Trust me, despite Tex’s history, this is showing up in scouting reports and is influencing opponent’s decisions regarding how and when to pitch to him.

By bubba

June 1, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

i hope this doesnt give chuck a spot in the rotation again - bring up Charlie Morton the kid is piching awesome.

By Bring Me the Head of Francisco Cabrera

June 1, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

Smoltz called out Larry about his play (or lack of play) last year and it did some good. Got him back out on the field again, at least. Maybe Larry shouldn’t knock “confronting people about their play” until he’s tried it.

By richbrave

June 1, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

bf54:

Thanks. My only regret is I won’t be able to provide first-hand accounts after this year. Hopefully someone in GEORGIA is willing to take my hand-off at the beginning of the NFL season and run with it.

Of course, there are those who are undoubtedly ticked off by my information. In which case, they should put their scroll on (as my good friend drmaryb would say) and roll quickly past.

Meanwhile. I’ll ask MISSISSIPPI fans again - whats up with YOUNG in centerfield.??

By HERSHEL MANEK

June 1, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

 The Braves will be losers as long as Bobby Cox refuses to play "short" ball. Many of those one-run loses could have been victories if he had the gumption to play for a run when the opportunity arose (many did). Phooey on Bobby Cox!

By carl

June 1, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this

Hey Bobby’s Cox, I enjoyed your 6:00 post; I feel the same way :(

By SNIPER-69

June 1, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

Lew, I can’t say how long Pedro will be around but for now he’ll be playing while Hudson won’t be.

By macdwolfpack

June 1, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

Can anybody tell me where in the world Dave O’Brien is and when in the world he is going to return?

By don

June 1, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

I had the “pleasure” of seeing the Braves firsthand and in person this weekend since I live close to Cincinnati.

To be honest, the team doesn’t look very good.

Escobar did nothing. He must be having withdrawal after the unwise release of his friend, Pena.

Chipper is usually good in the field- so long as the ball is hit within a foot of him in either direction. Of course, that doesn’t always guarantee a gold glove performance, does it? I think his age is beginning to show.

If the Braves are going to depend on Soriano, it will be a long summer. It would have been nice if he had bothered to at least slow Freel down a little before throwing to first base. He didn’t. Of course, McCann wasn’t blocking the plate either.

Bob did allow me to see the entire bullpen- most of them two or three times in the series. It seemed to be a little too much micromanaging the way he yanked them in and out. On the other hand, they weren’t too impressive individually or as a group.

Some of you posters have been building up Jurrjens for rookie of the year. I suggest you find another candidate. He won’t even get the Atlanta voters.

All in all, it was a most educational weekend. But, then, at least I can forget the playoffs and concentrate on other things.

Some opf you guys should be sued for false advertising. The Braves are, at very best, mediocre.

By Random

June 1, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

eric the elder —

Ha ha.

I like you — you’re funny.

(And also, in this case, wrong. Want to reconsider your position?)

TJ: “Random, are you really suggesting that the Braves should base their personnel decisions on who Yunel’s best friend is?”

“Best friend”? Not the issue. Countryman? Yes, that should have been one of the factors considered, along with positional versatility, offense, options, etc.

And the Braves may very well have considered it. I think it was considered and played a part in the Braves “bringing three catchers north”, so why would it not still be a factor?

Releasing Pena may or may not have been a good move (me, I think not, for several reasons), but to ignore or downplay the impact of the decision on Escobar is foolish.

What did the Red Sox do in anticipation and support of signing Daisuke Matsuzaka? They acquired his countryman, Hideki Okajima, as a free agent.

Don’t get me wrong — Okajima can pitch; but so can Pena catch. Don’t frame the issue as if Pena were some kind of straphanging, hanger-on, posse member, like a “personal trainer” in Barry Bonds’ old retinue.

“If he’s gonna mope about this, he obviously lacks the emotional makeup to succeed longterm.”

Yeah, obviously — after all, he is a human being. Sounds like you’ve never worked in a foreign country, and have no real idea of the intensity of culture shock.

Are the Braves paying for his family to be here like the Red Sox are for Okajima’s and Matsuzaka’s?

“We should’ve kept a guy that even the offensively-challenged Kansas City Royals DFA’s after about 3 days?”

We’ll see.

By Lew

June 1, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

Austin-Simpson and Gant have time in ML clubhouses? How about Bobby Cox? His 45+ years don’t count?

(Austin-This rest is not necessarily addressed to you). Just because the blog decides that players have to be shuffled around on a consistent basis, and Gant and Simpson (if they are such great managers, why are they broadcasting and have never managed?) think so too, says nothing for continuity, which is exactly what Bobby Cox is striving for-and I would be willing to bet is what the players want as well. It is likely one reason so many love to play for him-they know exactly what to expect and realize that it will take more than a slump for him to lose confidence in them.

The blog wasn’t happy with KJ leading off and now we have Yunel (who is the one so many clamored for). Now, after what, a week and a half, Yunel doesn’t fit your expectations (did anyone consider he has had a hand injury and is merely in a slump?) and the clamoring has begun yet again-just like it did whenever Raffy Furcal hit a Home Run and messed up his swing for two weeks.

The problem is that y’all are trying to see the team is managed like a Fantasy team would be. It may be the way to go to constantly change your lineup on a daily basis and dump whoever is momentarily not productive, because that’s how one scores points in Fantasy baseball. Baseball in the real world isn’t played that way. Too bad some of y’all can’t tell the difference.

As far as picking up pieces that so many consider crucial-Has anyone seen what the A’s are asking for their castaways? Apparently it was more than the Braves wanted to pay in personnel. Add to this the fact that NO ONE is letting anyone go at the moment (at least not for a reasonable trade value) and you might just realize why nothing is happening on the trade front-with anyone.

Look y’all-The road fiasco so far has been frustrating and disappointing-even for an optimist like me. However, rarely do quick fixes based on knee jerk reactions succeed anywhere, much less over the course of a 162 game schedule. It is always better to make changes after a well thought out plan of action and you can’t keep changing that plan on a daily basis.

It’s about time for many to realize that yes, there are concerns and yes, they will have to be addressed (most likely ARE being addressed-they just ain’t told y’all), but the Braves, even with the lousy road record, even with the lousy record in one run games, even with the rash of injuries to the pitching staff (which have reached epic proportions), are still within spitting distance of the division lead and we still have a winning record heading into a home stand. Calm down and let things work themselves out or trust that the people who get paid to work them out will do so. We’ve still got 100 games to go. Ask the Mets or the Phillies what can happen in only 17 games.

By Braveheart

June 1, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

Random, do Escobar’s recent struggles have to do with Pena or with the finger he busted on the botched bunt and the leg he messed up on the Church double play?

N8, I didn’t see the game today. Spent the day grilling chicken, burgers and dogs and teaching my three year old niece how to play football, baseball, soccer and basketball. A bit of an ADHD afflicted child like most three year olds I suppose but when she focuses, she’s quite the little athlete. So I didn’t have the chance to find beauty on the Courtney Love train wreck that today’s game sounded like. We did have the game playing on the radio out in the yard though. Listened with interest when I heard that McCann and Hairston were getting into it. Wished I had seen it. Nice to hear Carroll’s explanation of McCann sticking up for his boys. The bearded heap is stepping up.

Random, thanks for the compliment. The comparison was flattering but I will never possess the way with words that scribe, bob and jimmy do. I’m just content to consider them friends as I do you.

Austin, don’t ever believe that any blogger on here is better than anyone else. We’ve all got our moments. I’ll go back to being an ahole fan tomorrow who incessantly rants against Tex, faceless cheapskate owners, Terry Pendleton and so on. Roll Tide! Go Braves!

By Lew

June 1, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

Snipper-You hope so, anyway. I’d rather stake my money on Hudson performing the rest of the season and for years after, than I would put money on Pedro even making it through a single start. You do realize that He hasn’t yet, while Hudson has a 7-4 record with an ERA barely over three? Come to think of it, that’s better than your $20 million pitcher, isn’t it?

By Lew

June 1, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Random-Dude, whether or not it was wise letting Pena go (and I would have kept him, myself), it is a done deal and he ain’t coming back. Time for everyone to move on about the situation. It is what it is and nothing more.

AS for Yunel-I’m of the opinion that he is experiencing lingering effects from being hit in the finger a while back-not pining away for Pena (that might make a good song title). As far as his family-His wife IS here. When we played in Miami, he had numerous relatives at the ballgame (remember his grandstanding when he Homered?)-half of the total Marlin’s attendeance were there to see him. If he needs to speak to tother Hispanics, there is still Chino Cadahia and Eddie Perez-at least they speak the language-likely Infante, too.

I think the guy is slumping, pure and simple. Nothing to do but to play through it.

By Robert

June 1, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this

I dont know which is sadder, watching a donkey destroy a team with real potential, or reading the Bobby supporters continue to dream up excuses

You cant win with a donkey in the dugout

By Random

June 1, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

Yunel’s Pet —

Perhaps KC still feels snake-bit by the last Pena they got out of Atlanta — see Tony, “Jr“‘s latest numbers.

Hey, Crabby Bill (“To Bobby’s Cox and many (too many) others.Why send those overly long redundant post ? How many people read to the end of those things ?”) — I read it all and found it well worth reading.

Maybe you should stick to TV, or Marvel/DC.

By FloridaBrave

June 1, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

brent a.

Yeah, Tex is better from the left-handed side right now. That wasn’t what we were debating. That happens with switch-hitters.

Random,

No, I don’t change my position. I think that’s a post hoc ergo proptor hoc fallacy. Who’s to say Escobar isn’t hitting because of Pena? He could just be in a little snide just like any other hitter gets in for no reason.

By Braveheart

June 1, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

Randon,, here’s a sobering perspective on Brayan Pena: The Royals DFA’d Brayan Pena so that they could call Kyle Davies up to the majors.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 1, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

CR,

Thanks for the updates on the injuries and on Heap sticking up for his mates.

Guess this road trip reinforces all the denizens who think this is a .500 team!

I really appreciate the blog as a place to vent, but face it, folks, nothing we say here (or probably nothing Ron Gant or Jerome Jurenovich say on Braves Live) will change a thing Bobby Cox does. Cox does what he does, and more often than not, his teams win.

If you look at his career, he’s been a very conventional manager. If he had speed on the roster, he’d run and play small ball. If he didn’t, he wouldn’t. He didn’t force teams to do things they weren’t capable of doing, and he didn’t necessarily tell his boss to go out and get one type of player just to fill a perceived need.

And unless he had a genuine speed burner in the outfield, he really wants his middle infielders at the top two spots of the lineup, even if his middle infielders aren’t that good (remember all tha ABs that wen to Quilvio Veras? Keith Lockhart? Rey Sanchez? Marcus Giles [long after he was effective]?).

Willie Harris got a lot of ABs in the leadoff spot last year because he was the only potential base stealer on the team (even though he wasn’t real good at that).

With Cox, you’re not going to get a lot of in-game maneuvers or oddball lineups or bizarre strategies (like batting your pitcher 8th), as much fun as they can be for the fans to watch.

From my many years of watching the Braves, it seems to me that Cox had the same sort of expectations of his players that John Madden had during his days of coaching. Madden says he had three rules: Be on time; pay attention; come dressed to play.

It’s very conventional. He lets the players play. And as long as they don’t break the rules, he doesn’t mess with them.

And also in recent years, he’s really been happy when he had eight regulars who could play everyday. He’s occasionally used platoons but he doesn’t seem to like them. He doesn’t like to change his lineup to satisfy matchups or situations unless a regular needs a day off.

One thing that’s memorable about Cox is how infrequently he ever shows any public displeasure with a player. Years ago he took Andruw out of a game for not hustling, and last year he made sure Wickman was off the team seemingly within hours of Wickman saying he didn’t want to pitch in a non-save situation. That’s about all I can remember in the three decades Cox has been in the dugout. That’s probably why players love him so much, even if his stubborn loyalty to guys when they aren’t performing drives us fans crazy.

By Austin

June 1, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

Lew

I just feel that Gant being a former all-star slugger knows what needs to be done in this particular situation. Bobby im my opinion is a below average game/strategic manager. If Blanco is leading of and gets a bunt single, now you have a more comfortable Escobar in the 2 hole, Chipper and a hot Tex. Instead of having the pitcher behind him. Blanco’s speed on the base paths will do no good, if no one can drive him in.

By Shamus Thacker

June 1, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

I thank summa Y’all are auditionin fer a job.

Summa Y’all write great stuff, summa Y’all suck. If it’s like it useyoually is, the greats amongst us have low personal opinions of their own writings, the idiots think they’re Howard-Damn-Cosell…

By Robert

June 1, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

Actually, Cox did all he could today to avoid another one-run loss. For example, when the Braves were down by one, he brought in Royce Ring.

The man is just a frickin idiot. It is getting hilarious watching his antics, the stuff he thinks will work

By Braveheart

June 1, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

Escobar, before busting his finger: .310 AVG, .400 OBP, .471 SLG

Escobar, since busting his finger: .292 AVG, .344 OBP, .342 SLG

Escobar, in the 9 games since the Church play: .231 AVG, .286 OBP, .231 SLG

It’s probably the finger and the leg much more than Pena and batting leadoff. Or it could just be a bit of a slump

By Wake Me In 2010

June 1, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

As the name suggests, wake me in 2010. That will be the next time the Braves have a chance to start over with a manager who isn’t so passive he’s just gonna sit there with his arms crossed and wait for the worm to turn. Everything Cox says seems to point to that being his plan.

No, Cox can’t pitch and Cox can’t hit, but as in the business world there is a saying, “when you’re numb on one end and dumb on the other, it’s time to get off your A$$ and do something!” or this one, ” if you always do what you always did, you’ll always get what you always got!” Sounds like Cox would be happy with that result. His words may say otherwise, but talk is cheap. He may be unhappy, but he isn’t going to try and do anything to change the team’s luck it seems. Just because he could sit in the dugout and let division championships come to him for 14 years, doesn’t mean he can do it forever. The last couple of years have proven that.

Suggestions? Sure! Anything! Pitching hasn’t stunk until the last two days. The offense has been the big problem.

Lead off with Blanco, Escobar back to second, Kelly to Francouers spot and Francouer 8th. Batting back to back lefties shouldn’t be any more of a problem than flip flopping the order because that sure as heck hasn’t worked!

Heck, even pull the lineup out of a hat! Even though everyone knows that the road woes are the elephant in the room, no one is doing anything to address it! And the players all know that nothing is being done so how do they expect their luck to change? That’s just it. It’s not luck, even though the players and Bobby would have you think that. Luck is when you get a couple of bad breaks to lose games or a couple of good breaks to win games. The worst road record in baseball…… so that’s luck huh?

By Beat Writer Wannabe

June 1, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this

My writing is not all that good, y’all.

Hired?

By chappelli

June 1, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this

ijonathan; I was a catcher in Australia and had the same problem as McCann - stabbing back hand at balls low and outside to a right-hand hitter. By simply changing the position of the glove when setting the target he could solve the problem. At the moment it appears [from a brief glimpse at the highlights on mlb.com]the he has his arm and glove parallel to the ground - perfectly placed for a back hand stab. If he were to set the target with the arm extended slightly and the glove pointing to 12 rather than 3 o’clock on the clock face he will find it easier to move the glove anti-clockwise and block the ball that is in the dirt low and away to a right handed hitter.

By Robert

June 1, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

“That idiot BC has been ruining this team for the last 3 years. Can they not see it? “

THREE? Try eightenn and counting. And the front office is begging him to stay.

Mind-bogglingly sad

By SNIPER-69

June 1, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

Lew-ser, the money thing is all relative. The Mets are a wealthy franshise and have the money to spend. As for the Pedro & Hudson thing, we can look at small samples of a player’s performance and come up with all sorts of conclusions. The truth is although Hudson has been a very good pitcher Pedro has had a better career. It seems the Mets are getting back on track and I still believe Pedro will be a big reason why the Mets win the division.

By Braveheart

June 1, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this

Robert, is that really you or an imposter? You seem a little off your game so far tonight. Out of practice?

By Herman the Braveman

June 1, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

Shuddup,This Team is a.Too Arrogant for it’s own good, Our Braves think a lowlyteam ie; Cinncinati,Milwaukee,Colorado…is supposed to just lay down for them!!what is happening? The Braves are Playing GUTLESS baseball on the Road…It ain’t the Manager Folks:It’s the Arrogant @ssholes in the Playing field!!!!!!!! Gutless Performers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Robert

June 1, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

This team doesnt hit a lot of home runs, but there is nothing wrong with this team’s offensive capabilities.

Similarly, there is nothing seriously wrong with their pitching.

The big problem is how the offense and the pitching are utilized.

Wake Me in 2010 said it best - the worst road record in baseball isnt bad luck.

By Random

June 1, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

Lew: “Random-Dude, whether or not it was wise letting Pena go (and I would have kept him, myself), it is a done deal and he ain’t coming back. Time for everyone to move on about the situation. It is what it is and nothing more.”

Lew, mi amigo, I’m not holding on — I know it’s done and done.

All’s I’m saying is we (the Braves) have got to man up and deal with the unintended consequences — somehow address (what I and others see as) the negative impact on Escobar.

How? Beats me — I was hoping one of you would come up with something, once you were convinced of the reality and severity of the situation.

“If he needs to speak to to other Hispanics, there is still Chino Cadahia and Eddie Perez-at least they speak the language-likely Infante, too.”

I worked for six months in New Zealand once — I was looking the h3ll forward to it, too, thought it’d be a nice break from Japan. (I joked that it wouldn’t be too long before I picked up the language.)

It was the most miserable tour I’ve ever been on (and I spent 5.5 years in Kuwait). A common tongue is no panacea for culture shock. (Though they do help pass the nights.)

Braveheart: “Random, do Escobar’s recent struggles have to do with Pena or with the finger he busted on the botched bunt and the leg he messed up on the Church double play?”

Fair questions — I don’t know. We’ll see (and perhaps we’ll hear, upon DOB’s return.)

By BravesFanInRockies

June 1, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

Because Cox doesn’t like to make a lot of changes in his day-to-day lineup, that might explain why the Braves have had a fair number of switch hitters on the team over the years. You don’t have to think about platooning if you can accomplish lefty-righty matchups with the same players.

That may be why Norton is getting PT in left and not Anderson, though Anderson is clearly the better defender and right now may even be the better hitter (and I’m no huge fan of Anderson).

Cox is nothing if not steady. Robert calls that stubborn (hee-haw).

I don’t know how well Cox’s approach will work this year. I’m guessing he’s frustrated by all the injuries and so many roster moves and dealing with a lot of players he’s unfamiliar with during the season. But nobody else has run away with the division just yet, so I’m far from giving up.

By Greg

June 1, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

I;ve about had it. This team is in shambles. We need Blanco at leadoff. We need Yunel at 2. We need Johnson at 7. I don’t care if Blanco goes 0 for 4 every game. At least he makes pitchers work and takes walks. Half of these one run losses are because BC won’t play the speed game. We need to manufacture runs. Bobby Cox is terrible at managing the game and great at motivating players. The worst thing about all of this is that it’s affecting Chipper. He’s trying to kill the ball instead of get hits. I hate it, but he will be under .350 by the end of the month. And one last thing, BURN THOSE GD BLUE UNIS. The team won 14 titles in its Gray and White unis with the red and blue cap. The baseball gods are angry because the team has been so arrogant as to change its uniforms after all those years of success. There’s a reason why the Yankees didn’t ditch their pinstripes for orange parfait jerseys when that was the rage back in the 70s. It’s called tradition. I say burn the red unis and the blue unis to appease the baseball gods.

By ijonathan

June 1, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this

Chappelli

Thanks, interesting insight. I’ve never caught (pitched, 1B) and sitting here on my couch trying the different arm/glove angle you suggest does make it seem more likely that you would shift and block palm up, rather than back hand stab. Wonder if that would work for most catchers, or if some would find it too awkward…

Thanks mate!

By Robert

June 1, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

Braveheart - it’s me. I guess I am out of practice. And I probably shouldnt even bother posting - I mean, those who get it, get it. And those who support Cox could watch him set fire to the clubhouse and would swear he was innocent of a any wrongdoing.

I just think this year is particularly dramatic. We have a guy who looks like he is gonna give .400 a serious shot, and one of the best offenses and pitching staffs in the league (even if the offense and pitching arent all coming from where we thought they would) - and we are one game above .500

Give me the best hitting and the best pitching and I dare say I could manage better than one game above .500.

And the geniuses sound-bytes go on - it has long ago passed the point of frustration. When it came out that Cox will likely manage in ‘09, I stopped caring about the wins or losses or the standings

To me, it is just comic relief at this point

Happy days - in 2010 maybe?

By BravesFanInRockies

June 1, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

And Herman the Braveman’s suggestion to get some wins is …. ???

By Nelson

June 1, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

Good comment by BravesFanlnRockies,yes you’re right Bobby Sucks, and thanks to that I turned-off my TV today and use the time washing my car and getting ready for work tomorrow. As Carrol said this line-up is not producing, Why?, because Yunel is not playing his roll as lead-off, and I can smell he doesn’t like to hit lead-off, by discipline he has to do that and do it right, but he is not happy in that position,Blanco as Ront Gant is saying everyday should be the lead-off hitter in this team, yunel second, move Tex 5th, Mc. Cann 4th, and Kelly 6th, since he moved Kelly again the guy coolled-off. Honestly I’m tired, every year the Braves has good teams, but Bobby is unable to move the cards correctly, last year had Andruw batting 4th with the biggest slump ever. I think is time for a younger and more dinamic manager to make those players do what they are paid for.

By The Ghost of Howard Cosell

June 1, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

the idiots think they’re Howard-Damn-Cosell

What am I? Chopped liver? Maybe that was a compliment.

By Bowie

June 1, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

AJC Poll: What frustated you the most? A. B. C. but the one that Frustrated me the most was not a choice.*Bobby Cox *. They have silly polls with not real answer. I agree with Robert,N8, Bobby’s Cox and alot more. Cox is a damn joke! If you like him fine,its your right. Its my right not to.

By Shamus Thacker

June 1, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

lol

By Ted Williams's Freezer Burnt Head

June 1, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

Howdy Howard!

By LivininAL

June 1, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this

I Agree! Shuffle the lineup a little…I dont care how,rmember when Billy Martin would pull the line up out of a hat? We are playing with the energy of a bunch of snails,looks like we have been sentenced to play by a judge for a crime.

By Random

June 1, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

Beat Writer Wannabe: “My writing is not all that good, y’all.”

At least you know how to spell “y’all” — that’s more than most, and quite a leg up around here.

Braveheart: “It’s probably the finger and the leg much more than Pena and batting leadoff. Or it could just be a bit of a slump”

Post hoc, ergo propter hoc, eh?

25 Apr: Escobar’s finger-busting bunt

21 May: Escobar-Church incident

23 May: Pena DFA’d

Gonna be kinda hard to segregate or differentiate the separate impacts of the last two events based on timetables alone.

Shamus Thacker: “Summa Y’all write great stuff, summa Y’all suck. If it’s like it useyoually is, the greats amongst us have low personal opinions of their own writings”

I agree ou — Braveheart is admirably modest.

Braveheart: “Random,, here’s a sobering perspective on Brayan Pena: The Royals DFA’d Brayan Pena so that they could call Kyle Davies up to the majors.”

Yeah, I saw that while I was adressing Yunel’s Pet. I involuntarily shuddered as I felt my credibility crumbling.

FloridaBrave: “Random, No, I don’t change my position. I think that’s a post hoc ergo proptor hoc fallacy.”

Mar 10 is post hoc?!? I think not! Did you even read the whole post?

By Robert

June 1, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

If we played .500 in the one-run games, we’d be 36-21. That equates to a 102 win season

As it stands, we are 29-28

I said before the season started that this was a 90+ win roster that would play .500 ball

Maybe I was wrong. It may be a 100+ win roster that’ll be brought down to .500 by the “genius”

The Braves are like a good prime time comedy show, in that I dont have to watch to know what will happen. If it’s close enough to where a tactical decision cam decide the game, we will lose 9 out of 10 times - to any and all comers

The man costs us a gme a week - and that’s a very conservative estimate

By brad

June 1, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

I have gone through this whole blog and there seems to be alot of talk about Escobar. Some of you think its Pena, some his leg, some his finger, some his lead-off and some all the above!!! Is all I can and will say,,, its his lead-off role thats he is upset about. His finger and leg is fine. Pena,,, well thats “buisness” as it was put. Yuni knows he isnt a lead-off hitter and is making it VERY obvious at his at bats that he doesnt want to be there with the first at bat swings. “Blanco and-or (now)Anderson could lead this team” Yunel at 26 could be a manager if he wanted because he understands the game so well and I KNOW thats whats getting to him. Just a HUNCH is guess!!!

By JJMB

June 1, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

Robert typed, I just think this year is particularly dramatic. We have a guy who looks like he is gonna give .400 a serious shot, and one of the best offenses and pitching staffs in the league (even if the offense and pitching arent all coming from where we thought they would) - and we are one game above .500

It is sad. How many wins wasted to this point? Yet, they give Cox another extention. And who in the Atlanta “media” questions Cox? The only ones I can think of are Ron Gant and Joe Simpson.

Sad situation.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 1, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

Nelson,

I didn’t say Bobby sucks. Far from it. I said he is what he is and we can’t change that. His methods have worked (as in winning division titles) extremely well and he’s not likely to wake up one morning and become Tony LaRussa or Jim Leyland or Joe Torre, constantly tinkering with the lineup or calling out his players in the media.

He prefers putting who he sees as the eight best players on his roster on the field day after day and not mess with them. Works more often than it doesn’t, but when it doesn’t, it’s painful to be a fan.

By No More Bobby

June 1, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson says - “We need to get a voodoo doll or something.” No you guys need to stop taking this as a joke and play with some freaking passion. Im tired of seeing guys jog to first base, not get upset when striking out, no team unity shown on field (the Reds showed a lot of that this series) and Im way over Bobby Cox cheering on the team from the dugout all loud like a drunk fan. Bobby ball is BORING and Atlanta needs something (someone) new!! I would rather lose like we did back in the days of Horner and Murphy than watch this team play like a church softball league. At least those horrible teams of the 80s played with heart.

Will someone please step up on this team and fire up the other players? Bobby isnt going to do it unless its his time to shine and get thrown out of another game. What a joke!

Bobby your washed up and its time to walk away. Lord please let 2010 get here soon!!!

NO MORE BOBBY!!!!!

By Braveheart

June 1, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

Robert is just warming up now. Like he’s jogging in the park, working the kinks out before he gets down to business and shows the amateurs what true Bobby bashing is.

By Santa3247

June 1, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

EXPECTO PETRONUM !!!!!

Joseph Reyes Jeff Bennett Manny Acosta Jorge Campilo-Babylon helping him powerfully for making John Smoltz reliever and outing from team now Gregor Blanco Greg Norton Joseph Salmon Joseph Bochard Derek Arnold(AA) Paul Bennett(AA) Enrique Cruz(AAA) Brent Lilibridge(AAA) Chad Lundahl(A)

May the force of Messiah be with you

By TJ

June 1, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

Yunel at 26 could be a manager if he wanted because he understands the game so well and I KNOW thats whats getting to him.

I’ve now officially heard “everything.”

Funny, to me, how Cox is made the villain, and the players (you know those guys actually making errors, striking out, taking bad at-bats, throwing gopher balls, etc) are the victims of his evil deeds.

Oh well.

By N8

June 1, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

I just read Carroll’s account of what McCann said the “squabble” was about.

Bob Brenly made some comments a few years back when he was the manager of the D-Backs, and Schilling had a perfect game broken up (22 batters in a row), with a bunt single by Ben Davis.

It was May 26, 2001 (both teams entering that game were 26-22 and tied for 1st place), the D-Backs were leading the game 2-0.

Brenly called Davis’ bunt a “chicken-bleep” play. Saying he was a young player that had a LOT to learn.

Brenly, Hairston (and anybody else that has a problem with that play - in a close game when a team in contention is involved) need to take that “un-written” rule and shove it up their azz.

Besides. Isn’t Bobby “old-school”?? If he truly is, and the Reds (along with Dusty Baker) are aware that he is. Don’t you think Bobby would “handle” it in house?

If the game is out of reach, or the Braves were 20 games back in August. Then YES. It’s a cheap shot at breaking up a historic event.

As long as the Braves are still in the pennant race, and the game wasn’t out of hand, the Reds should be able to figure it out.

Hariston…..Your AND idiot.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 1, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this

No More Bobby,

Now that’s an interesting comment. You’d rather have the team lose and be interesting than win?

I’ll forward your request to the front office. I’m sure they’ll get right on it.

By Random

June 1, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

Cubs Have Best Record (36-21) in MLB

For What It’s Worth (Humor-wise):

George Will on the Cubs (circa 1977):

(I claim fair use)

… I recently resolved to buy one share of Cubs stock so that on my income tax form I could list my occupation as “baseball owner.” While visiting Omaha, I confided this desire to Warren Buffett, who is a St Louis Cardinal fan but not otherwise sinister. In a blaze of bonhomie uncharacteristic of Cardinal fans, he wrote to a friend in Des Moines, the estimable Joseph Rosenfield:

“Dear Joe: George Will, an otherwise quite competent young man, shares your irrationality regarding the Cubs. I mentioned to George that in this case it is possible to put your money where your aberrations are, and that it would be possible for him to buy stock in the club. Considering the fact that you and Phil Wrigley are the two largest shareholders, I don’t see how he can help but upgrade the present membership. Why don’t you write George directly and explain to him precisely how to get aboard this gravy train.”

Cardinal fans are by nature sarcastic. Cubs fans are of sweet disposition.

By Santa3247

June 1, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

EXPECTO PETRONUM

Joseph Reyes Jeff Bennett Manny Acosta Jorge Campilo-Babylon helping him powerfully for making John Smoltz reliever and outing from team now Gregor Blanco Greg Norton Joseph Salmon Joseph Bochard Derek Arnold(AA) Paul Bennett(AA) Enrique Cruz(AAA) Brent Lilibridge(AAA) Chad Lundahl(A)

May the force of Messiah be with you

By N8

June 1, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

“Robert is just warming up now. Like he’s jogging in the park, working the kinks out before he gets down to business and shows the amateurs what true Bobby bashing is.”

Well said. I’ve been wondering where he’s been. I’ve just been keeping grill warm for him.

It’s darn near getting to that point where Robert pours the whole can of lighter fluid on the coals.

I sense a “Hindenburg” type explosion on the horizon.

By Thomas Aquinas

June 1, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this

Dear Carroll, Truly remarkable news about the fragile, diminutive portsider from Brooksville, Fl “Throwing off of flat ground without pain”.

I don’t know how old you are. Therefore I don’t know if you recall Jimmy Hoffa’s disappearance, if you do you would note correlation between Jimmy’s disapperance and Mikey’s leaving the scene.Both guys just vanished. Of course little Mike has left a trace, but the trace is so fleeting as to remind you of that summer breeze that stirs up and then is gone. To keep providing updates of Malingering Mike’s whereabouts is tantamount to giving credence to Jimmy possibly resting at the Meadowlands—It doesn’t really matter is what I’m trying to say in a convoluted way borne of fraustration——-Mike Hampton Does Not Want To Play!!!!!! He is reflective of all that is wrong in a society that rewards Slackers and works to deprive teachers, firemen, policemen, garbage colectors, cancer researchers, EMT personnel, social workers, National Guardsmen and on and on.

I’ve heard all the GARBAGE about how the union won’t let him give money back AND I don’t want him to give the money back I do wish he had the fortitude to stand up and say—“Hey, I realize I’ve produced nothing in my stay here. I realize I’ve been paid for doing nothing so I wish to contribute half of my charity for last2 years to Atlanta charities”—Okay, that won’t happen so how about 25%, No?? Okay 10%, No?? 5%, No??? 1%, Oh blank it!!! Keep the cash and make sure your relatives 5 generations out can sit on their dead butts like you have and do nothing.

By santa3247

June 1, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

EXPECTO PETRONUM

Joseph Reyes Jeff Bennett Manny Acosta Jorge Campilo-Babylon helping him powerfully for making John Smoltz reliever and outing from team now Gregor Blanco Greg Norton Joseph Salmon Joseph Bochard Derek Arnold(AA) Paul Bennett(AA) Enrique Cruz(AAA) Brent Lilibridge(AAA) Chad Lundahl(A)

May the force of Messiah be with you

By Train Wreck Bystander

June 1, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

This team is in a deep funk.

It’s time to give up the funk and tear the roof off the sucker.

That’s the optimist in me talking.

The realist in me still insists out Bravos will finish within 5 games of .500, above or below.

By brad

June 1, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

TJ I in no way came down or said anything bad about BC, I guess you just took it that way. All I am saying is>>> A BIRD IN HAND IS BETTER THAN 2 IN THE BUSH!!!!, if you know what I mean.

By Will

June 1, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this

So here we are a 1-5 road trip after everyone took the koolaid of a good homestand! I love chipper jones and john smoltz but after that this team can go to hell. Its a .500 baseball team folks and i will still root and watch every game but anybody that thinks anything else is a bonafide idiot

By Lou Vales

June 1, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

Thomas Aquinas—I trust he is not the real one—is not only my new hero, but i think he should represent the owners at the next labor(although in Hampton’s case that word should be used loosely) negotiation.

By Jeff

June 1, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

I am 32 year old life long Braves fan and I am very upset and lost. At home this team can sweep the Muts and hammer Brandon Webb. However we go on the road and get whacked. I look around at the NL and see the Cubs,D Backs, Phillies leading there divisions. In my opinion the only team that is better than us in Arizona. The other teams have heart and we don’t. We need to tack Joe Blanton down

By Jerry Seinfeld

June 1, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

Mike Hampton????? I thought he had retired and moved to Boca Raton years ago. Is he being paid for residuals the way I am???? Mike may be lazier than George and as productive as Kramer.

By Random

June 1, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

brad: “Yuni knows he isnt a lead-off hitter and is making it VERY obvious at his at bats that he doesnt want to be there with the first at bat swings.”

And exactly how did he make it obvious last year?

Here’s how: .361/.404/.491!!!

Y.A.I. — you and your’n.

By Will

June 1, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this

Jay Bruce is mirror image of Jeff Francoeur when he came up and i only hope for reds fans sake that he doesnt flop and fizzle like Frenchy has!

By Davey O'Bravien

June 1, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this

Well, now that we’re past Memorial Day and the team still doesn’t win on the road, I AM VERY CONCERNED! The current status quo, if you will, is beyond baffling. It is down right AWFUL. As many of you know, YOUNG teams sometimes struggle away from Home. This Braves team is loaded with experienced players. The injuries don’t help, but are by NO MEANS a reason for the road debacles. Next time I hear the word Hampton, I hope it’s because I’ve won an all expenses paid vacation somewhere near the ocean!

Good Night and Go Bravos!

By N8

June 1, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

Brad

“Yuni knows he isnt a lead-off hitter and is making it VERY obvious at his at bats that he doesnt want to be there with the first at bat swings.”

If this statement is true, then Yunel should be traded ASAP!!!

Or Bobby should be fired.

A) If Yunel is pulling a Gary Sheffield (IE: playing bad intentionally to get put in a different spot in the lineup - or in Sheffield’s case, intentionally botching plays in the field to force a trade), I don’t want him on this team.

B) If he IS doing that, and Bobby hasn’t noticed, than the inmates are running the asylum. Time for the old man to step down.

C) I’m gonna call BS on your part.

In his career, Escobar has hit .319 with an OBP of .368 in 249 PA’s from the lead-off spot, with 3 HR and 23 RBI.

In ALL OTHER Spots in the order, he has hit .313 with an OBP of .382 in 340 PA’s, with 6 HR and 27 RBI.

Appears to me, that in 100 less plate appearances, he’s been MORE productive from the lead-off spot.

He’s hit a rough spot the past 18 games or so as the lead-off hitter.

He’s hit .253 with an OBP of .305 with 1 HR and 7 RBI. However, in those 18 games, he’s 8 for 18 (.444) leading off the game.

The last 7 “day” he’s hit .258 with an OBP of .324. In the last 14 “days (12-games), he’s hit .308 with a .339 OBP.

If anybody cares, Edgar Renteria has hit .368 with a .419 OBP in the last 14 “days (11 games).

Maybe the people ragging on Yunel would like us to “re-trade” JJ for Edgar?

The kid is in the middle of a slump (7 days). When guys are in slumps, the don’t take a lot of pitches. When the team is pressing, guys that WANT to step up, don’t take a lot of pitches (unless their last name is Francoeur - then they NEVER take pitches).

For the record, in the last 28 “days” Escobar has hit .282 with an OBP of .330. Tex, in the same stretch has gone .267 with an OBP of .374.

So by you saying that Escobar is “clearly” frustrated in the lead-off spot. How would you classify Tex in the clean-up spot?

In that stretch Tex has 3 HR and 21 RBI, Yunel has 1 HR and 9 RBI.

One COULD argue that if the switched spots in the order, the team might be better off, right? After all, Tex ONLY has 2 more HR than Yunel in the past month, and actually has a better OBP.

:-)

By adam west

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

flop and fizzle…..

Hmmmmmmm…. Am I watching an old Batman episode or Snoop Dogg’s Fatherhood?

I hope Jeff gets it going, so that will can say, “flop and fizzle sizzle!!

Fo’ Rizzle.

By Philliesuk

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

Just got back home after my trip to Cincy. It looks like I picked a bad weekend for a Braves road trip.

Got to meet Manny Acosta after the game; seems like a great guy. I’m sure he feels pretty bad about yesterday.

I haven’t read the blog today yet, but all I can say is that our hitters are too freaking streaky. Yunel looks really bad, as you all could tell today. He also needs to lose a little of that swagger before he learns some fundamentals. That bunt attempt yesterday was a joke. He looked lost today.

Josh Anderson looked good. Obviously, there’s no way to tell after five at-bats, but I like his approach to hitting. He looks like a true lead-off hitter. Bobby…are you listening??? He’s the fastest Braves player I’ve seen in a long while. He also does something i like to see - he actually hustles to first, every single time. Ever since Spring Training, I’ve wanted this guy leading off. I’m not saying it’s going to fix everything, but I think having a true lead-off hitter is a start.

Chipper looked incredibly frustrated out there today. He deserves better than what most of the others are giving him. It must suck for a hall-of-famer to bat .400 and watch his teammates blow it so often on the fundamentals.

By Nomad

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

This may be the worst example of a “discussion” about what is good and bad for the team EVER on the blog.

A person who does the same thing over and over and expects different results - definition of an idiot.

Why do all of you anti Cox people go over this after EVERY loss? He is the manager. He was renewed through 2009 and will coach at least until then. No matter how many post you put up they will not fire Bobby Cox. He is and will remain the manager. Do something productive. Y’alls is idiots.

By adam west

June 1, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this

!”

By Jerry Seinfeld

June 1, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this

Someone on the Braves’ vent asked why Mike was on the bench and not rehabbing in Florida——We don’t want him rehabbing because he will get hurt. He is safe on the bench. Just pay attention to line drives,last out the year and then hightail it for the French Riviera. Those millions won’t be worth as much in Europe, but nobody will recognize him for the non-productive, fragile, welfare beneficiary that he has been here in America——Truly has been the Land of Opportunity for Little Mike.

By brad

June 1, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this

Random Pay attention!!!! Oh ya I know the numbers, he could be a great lead-off hitter, (he along with Chip are the best two hitters on the team). HE DOESNT WANT TO>>>>>….!!!!!

By Philliesuk

June 1, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

Great post by N8 about Yunel.

I really want to like Yunel. I really do. He’s an exciting player who is capable of making spectacular plays in the field. He is one of those guys who could hit .300 with some potential for power (maybe). He just exudes potential.

The thing is don’t like is how aloof he seems. During Spring Training, he was the ONE GUY who I never saw signing autographs. Every time a kid would yell out his name, he wouldn’t even look up. I mean, come on; dude just came up from AAA. Today was no different. He was the one guy who didn’t pay any attention to the fans. Actually, I take that back; Tex didn’t either. I know the fans can be really annoying to the players when they are constantly trying to get autographs etc., but I think how you treat the fans says a lot about a player’s makeup and character. I’m sure many of you will disagree, but that’s just my opinion.

By Smoltz HOF

June 1, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

Maybe it’s just me, but I sense a bit of melancholy and resignation in what Smoltz has been saying as he rehabs. The guy is a raw nerve with plenty of guts, but I just think the guy is tired of hurting all the time. He’s gonna give it a shot. If anyone can do it, I’m sure he’s the one. I’m not sure he’s gonna have the stuff to be a closer and I’m not sure he sees himself as being just a relative piece of a bullpen. If he doesn’t have success at the level that allows him to close games, I think we’ve seen the last of him. He’s already said he would never have another arm surgury to continue his career and evidently, there’s nothing in that arm that requires surgery. It may just be that his arm-elbow-shoulder is finally telling him there’s nothing else there.

Does anyone actually think Smoltz might get in a jam in an important game and NOT revert back to throwing what he knows will get guys out? He’s said the last couple of years that it hurts him to throw the split. Yet if anyone recalls the game he was going for his 3000 K, it seemed every other pitch was a split. Number 3000 came on a split. That’s the competitor in him. It’s like Ronnie Lott telling the doc to cut off the finger so he could keep playing football. That’s the way Smoltzie is. If he gets in a bind with the game on the line, he’ll revert back to what gets people out. In turn, his arm is going to tell him it can’t go anymore.

Hate to see him go, but I don’t expect Smoltz to keep playing if he can’t pitch like John Smoltz.

Besides, he’ll have a life after baseball. He would be snatched up by a network to do games if he has a desire to do so. He’ll also be playing plenty of golf trying to get ready for the senior tour in a few years. No less than Tiger Woods said Smoltz is good enough to make it on that tour.

I want to see Smoltz succeed. I hope he does. I just know that I’m not counting on him to be a major contributor to the Braves from this point forward. Either way, it’s been a heck of a ride for him!

By N8

June 1, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

Nomad

“Why do all of you anti Cox people go over this after EVERY loss?”

Let’s just say, that if we do “this” after every loss, we’ll be doing “this” more often than not, the rest of the way.

Just like last year, and the year before, this team is going nowhere, UNTIL they play better fundamental baseball.

Those “little things” that DO make a difference in close (IE: 1-run) games, are things that should be DRILLED into the team during spring training. Not talking about Tee-Times.

If those things are NOT gone over until the players are blue in the face during Spring Training, they should be gone over daily INSTEAD of batting practice.

After all, according to all the homers, this team “can hit” right?

“A person who does the same thing over and over and expects different results - definition of an idiot”

That’s not very nice. I don’t like to refer to Bobby as an idiot. Just insane.

What’s that? You weren’t talking about Bobby? It sure seemed like it.

By brent a.

June 1, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

Florida Brave:

Actually, I was talking about this season, which is the entire reason I brought up the point yesterday, immediately following the “pitch-around” walk to Chipper, followed by Tex’s 3-run homer from the left-side.

If you were debating something different, then you should’ve said so sooner. :)

By No More Bobby

June 1, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this

I like these people who take up for Bobby Cox on here as if 1995 wasnt 13 years ago. Ha! I bet you all think its awesome and high five each other when he gets thrown out of games at Turner Field. Well I want a manager who can inspire his team to win games and not be known as some WWF sideshow. True he is not the one out there striking out or making errors but a good manager knows how to get whatever players he has on roster to show up to WIN. Get that? Show up to WIN!! Not show up to play but WIN. I think a team playing in the NBA finals (hate the Celtics) is proof that change at head coaching spot can make a huge difference for a team. Also the same guy I want out of town (hate Bobby Cox) is also proof that change is good. Cox changed baseball in the ATL back in the early 90s when brought back but he was younger and a genius of a manager then. But people lose it and whatever “it” was. “It” is gone!

Who knows maybe he goes to another team and pulls the Leyland trick and gets some other team to the series but it just aint gonna happen in Atlanta. Change is needed and I hate that we Braves fans have to wait until at least 2010 for that to happen with all the young talent we have. So go ahead and defend Bobby Cox now and when finally a new guy comes in 2 years from now (please God) and we look like the team we should look like now, just know it could’ve happened earlier if Cox would walk away instead of dragging this out and making us all suffer.

By texmex

June 1, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this

it is time for this team to turn it around and start playing like they should be playing - we got a nice 7 game home stretch against the first and second place teams // i’d love to see charlie morton piching in one of those games, and also how about giving Josh anderson a start and let him or blanco lead off and bat yunel 2nd again..

By Lew Burdette

June 2, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this

John Smoltz will have the same difficulty leaving the game as Brett Favre. What do you think either of these two are going to do post sports—-Write the great American Novel or work on Strand Theory with Steven Hawking????

Smoltzie will hang on until his arm is dragging along the ground resembling Ted Abernathy.

The sad thing is Smoltz should only be hanging around to win a World Series and since he hasn’t won one in nearly 15 years—Does he really believe he is going to win one with this collection of ragamuffins. Couldn’t win one with Glavine and Maddox and a great line-up. So now he wins one with a rotation of an elderly Glavine and a JoJo and a Juir—Right!!!

By brent a.

June 2, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this

I still say Cox should’ve retired after 2004, at the absolute latest.

I, as much as anyone here, really want to see Smoltz and Cox win another World Series, and have no desire to do anything other than cheer for them as long as they are playing/managing; but, I just don’t think Bobby Cox is that great anymore.

I still say that everyone’s time passes at some point or another. I think with Cox, perhaps what is most difficult is just how close he has been, and just how close he probably thinks he is to another shot at a world title.

John Wooden won so many that it couldn’t have been too terribly painful (or at least not unfulfilling) to walk away in 1975 after winning another championship. But, Cox’s career, as great as it has been, has to feel much more unfulfilling for him, than it does we, as fans.

I think we all love Bobby Cox, especially those of us that attend games here in Atlanta. The place erupts when he runs out onto the field to argue a call. We want him to win because of what he has meant to this team and the city. But, this team is clearly lacking something. It began earlier this decade (if not late in the last decade), but got dismissed by many because we were still winning the division. But now, for the third straight year, we are very much an average performing team.

Of course we could still improve this season. That is such an obvious statement that it begins to seem ridiculous for people to keep pointing to it as reason to not be concerned. A team that plays this well at home obviously has the ability to play better on the road. But, there is a nasty flip-side to that coin, and that is of course that a team that is this porous on the road, could potentially have that poor play carry over to the home diamond as well.

We have no choice but to hope that we come home and dominate again this week. And then, hope that for the first time this year, we can carry this momentum into our next road trip.

It’s scary, though, to think about what the mentality will be if we do not dominate at home this week. Most will likely suspect that that will be a signal that the party is officially over, even though we may well then go out and have a .500 or better road trip.

That’s the tough thing about this week, to the pessimist, it’s a no-win week, because even if we win every home game, none of those will be road games, and until the Braves start winning on the road, no one’s concern’s will be fully assuaged.

Go Braves!

By eric the elder

June 2, 2008 12:11 AM | Link to this

Chris Matthews, as aggressive an interviewer as can be, once explained why he doesn’t like the word “idiot.”

If the purpose is to discuss and debate, he said, then calling someone an idiot essentially closes everything down.

Apparently Matthews has not yet experienced the joys of this blog, but he does have a point. If I call someone an idiot, then what does it say about me if I continue to try to reason with that person? Who is the bigger idiot - - him or me?

My grandmother would not allow any discussion of religion or politics within a 25-mile radius of her kitchen. My calling someone an idiot within her sphere of influence would have resulted in a trip to behind the woodshed and a 6-month deprivation of her strawberry shortcake.

Some things just stick with us, I suppose.

By Chop Chop

June 2, 2008 12:27 AM | Link to this

brent a.,

Well, I guess it’s going to be a tough week for me. N8, pass that bowl of sad over here.

By Coach (Braves to the playoffs in 2008)

June 2, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this

After the 2005 season, Rafael Furcal and the running game left for L.A., neither has been seen since. For the third season in a row the Braves have been unable to offset the dominance of left handed pitching with the running game.

I’ll break it down in plain old numbers. Chipper Jones and Mark Teixeira have hit 446 HR’s and 1440 RBI against right handers.

Left handers have held the two of them to 129 HR’s and 567 RBI. I would add in McCann and Francoeur but the numbers would only get even more lopsided.

Suffice to say, the Braves dependence on the power game and their inability to play small ball and attack opposing defenses is the direct link between all these one run losses and the last three seasons of losing to the south paws.

Here is a clue, look at the Red Sox. Jacoby Ellbury and Dustin Pedroia feed the Sox power game with their combination of speed and base stealing ability.

Ellbury bats lefty, Pedroia bats right handed, Ortiz is left handed and Manny hits righty. They have the perfect balance of speed and power with both sides of the plate covered. The Braves have the power and plate coverage but not the speed. The running game is missing in action and until it returns, we will continue to see this team underachieve.

By LuisGuillermo

June 2, 2008 1:05 AM | Link to this

This upcoming homestand is going to be pretty critical for the Braves. They’ll be facing the Marlins for 4 games (2nd place) and the Phillies for 3 (already in 1st place), and then they’ll hit the road for a long/tough stretch. Here’s what I think:

A 5-2 homestand is possible. A 5-2 homestand would be nice. A 6-1 homestand would be great. A 4-3 (or worse) homestand would not be ACCEPTABLE.

I hope Chipper can add some power numbers now (goshh, he didn’t drive in a run this week, playing at Miller Park and at the Great American Homerun Ball Park), but don’t want him to drop from .400 avg.

I can almost hear Bobby complaining about that change in the schedule on that June 15th game at Anaheim. They’ll have to travel from Anaheim to Colorado (for that postponed game on April 10th) and then to Texas. At least I’ll get the chance to see them playing on TV (thanks TBS for letting us go, now I haven’t been able to watch the Braves play on a regular basis. I wonder what are their ratings now).

By the way, the Braves host the Phillies next sunday at 1:35pm on TBS.

“The frustratrion level is at an all-time high. “But fighting amongst ourselves and confronting people about their play is not the way to do it. It’s just going to make things worse.” — Chipper Jones after being swept at Cincy.

By Chop Chop

June 2, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this

Coach,

Chipper has nearly three times as many plate appearances against righties as lefties. Teixeira has more than twice as many plate appearances against righties as lefties. That’s a qualification you might want to make when quoting their career HR and RBI stats against lefties, but you wouldn’t want to do that, would you? Of course not.

The fact is that Tex is a career .278 hitter against righties. He’s better (.301 for his career) against lefties. There’s no significant difference in Tex’s OPS splits against lefties (.912) and righties (.897). Chipper is a career .310 hitter against both righties and lefties. His OPS is higher against righties (.974), but still very good against lefties (.902).

If you want to say that lefties have “held” Chipper to a .310/.902 OPS, that’s your right. If you want to say that lefties have handled Tex to the tune of .278/.897, go right ahead. That doesn’t sound like “dominance” to me, but I’ll have to defer to you. You are the coach, after all. I’m just some schmuck looking up stats.

(I do agree with you that the Braves would be better off if they could manufacture more runs. At least it would give Bobby some more options. Blanco at the top of the order…many have stated this, of course…would be one way of putting a high-OBP guy with speed in the right position. If he fails, that doesn’t mean his skill-set is wrong for the spot. If he succeeds, it could be the kind of makeshift solution that Bobby Cox used to be well-known for.)

By Crabby Bill

June 2, 2008 1:38 AM | Link to this

Random I spend more time reading worthwhile material (I just finished a long article on southwest U.S. aquifers) than most ”regulars” here.These endless,blowhard post that say less than nothing though I can do without.

By AttaBoysMets

June 2, 2008 1:39 AM | Link to this

I never thought Escobar would slug a ton, but he has a slugging percentage that is now under 400. Gotta get the ball in the air a bit. His OPS is down to 750.Efrim

maybe he’s just coming back to where his minor league numbers suggest he should be? Maybe that idiot Sheehan wasn’t as far off as all you Braves fans ranted that he was?

By Moby Grape

June 2, 2008 2:12 AM | Link to this

Wakeme in 2010

LOL. what makes you think that Bobby won’t still be here then too? I sure wouldn’t bet against it if he stays healthy. But hey, I’ll be sure to wake you either way. In fact I’m looking forward to it.

By Coach (Braves to the playoffs in 2008)

June 2, 2008 2:38 AM | Link to this

Chop Chop, my advice to you and alot of other Braves fans is to wake up and smell the damn coffee.

Look no further than within our own division at the likes of Jose Reyes, Hanley Ramirez and Jimmy Rollins.

These are guys who eptomize speed, power and defense as lead off hitters. The running game is back, stolen bases are up for the third season in a row, while HR totals are dropping.

Balance has returned to the game of baseball and the Braves had better get with the program if they want to compete.

By BravesRule

June 2, 2008 2:40 AM | Link to this

I sense a “Hindenburg” type explosion on the horizon.N8

Who really cares what Robert does? The guy is a total azzhole.

you know most teams, most years often for decades at a time are mediocre. What in the world makes y’all think that won’t apply to the Braves too?

Buncha spoiled little pansy-azzes. Go on back to your fantasy baseball where you can play GM and move the lineup around every time your ADD acts up a little.

By BravesRule

June 2, 2008 3:00 AM | Link to this

Random Pay attention!!!! Oh ya I know the numbers, he could be a great lead-off hitter, (he along with Chip are the best two hitters on the team). HE DOESNT WANT TO>>>>>…Brad

I think it’s just amazing that you have this special gift of being able to tell how someone feels about things without even having to meet and talk to them. Most psychics are not that talented. I envy you your ability and I’m sure that you are putting it to good use in your personal life guaranteeing your success. I am a little surprised that I have never heard of you and your great success but I assume that you are just a modest dude. Keep up the good work. BTW would you post again and tell me how my girlfriend is feeling about me right now. She seems a little cool lately, our love-making being down to just three times a day the last week or two. Please help. Thank you in advance.

By Charlie

June 2, 2008 7:07 AM | Link to this

The Braves TV announcers have been discussing different uniform combinations on the road this weekend, in an attempt (for the Braves) to “change their luck”. They should wear baggy, poc-a-dot uniforms, with over-sized shoes…no caps, but red curly wigs. A clown uniform would fit their persona well… Clarabelle is there to lead them, and their new-look unifrom fits well, considering the type of baseball product that they put on the field.

By Bill

June 2, 2008 7:17 AM | Link to this

This homestand will make or brake the Braves. They will either be in first place or ten games out.

By Shaun

June 2, 2008 8:07 AM | Link to this

my advice to you and alot of other Braves fans is to wake up and smell the damn coffee.

Look no further than within our own division at the likes of Jose Reyes, Hanley Ramirez and Jimmy Rollins.

These are guys who eptomize speed, power and defense as lead off hitters. The running game is back, stolen bases are up for the third season in a row, while HR totals are dropping.

Balance has returned to the game of baseball and the Braves had better get with the program if they want to compete.

Yes, because the four teams with at least 50 steals are all in the top five in scoring, right, Coach?

Actually only one is in the top seven.

But you know which teams are scoring runs? Teams with good on-base and slugging abilities.

By Shaun

June 2, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this

After the 2005 season, Rafael Furcal and the running game left for L.A., neither has been seen since. For the third season in a row the Braves have been unable to offset the dominance of left handed pitching with the running game.

Coach, how exactly does speed help a team hit left-handed pitching? Maybe you know something I don’t but I don’t see the relationship between the running game and hitting left-handed pitching. Oh, and the Braves finished second in the league in scoring in 2006 and third in 2007. I’m not sure how Furcal’s loss has hurt the offense.

I’ll break it down in plain old numbers. Chipper Jones and Mark Teixeira have hit 446 HR’s and 1440 RBI against right handers.

Left handers have held the two of them to 129 HR’s and 567 RBI. I would add in McCann and Francoeur but the numbers would only get even more lopsided.

More right-handed pitchers so of course they are going to hit less homers and have fewer RBI against lefties; fewer chances against lefties.

From 2005 to 2007 Chipper hit worse against lefties but he was still a great hitter against them. Teixeira was actually better against lefties. Francoeur was much better against lefties. And McCann wasn’t bad against lefties. This year Tex has struggled and Francoeur has struggled against both righties and lefties. But Jones has done just fine and McCann has actually hit better against lefties than righties.

Exactly where do you see that the Braves hitters, particularly their two superstars, have struggled against lefties in the recent past, since Furcal left? Maybe looking at their counting stats but that’s obviously flawed because there are more righties than lefties.

Suffice to say, the Braves dependence on the power game and their inability to play small ball and attack opposing defenses is the direct link between all these one run losses and the last three seasons of losing to the south paws.

I don’t see the “direct link.” Since the direct link seems to be so strong and so obvious, and since you are an expert on this and have studied it, maybe you can show us some evidence to back up your point. I’m just not seeing it.

By Lew

June 2, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this

What the Hell, it could be worse-Coach could have already declared the season over with.

By Philliesuk

June 2, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

This is one reason that Chipper Jones has more home runs from the left side.

Right: 1870 AB
Left: 5228 AB

By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)

June 2, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this

Shaun, your missed the part about Jacoby Ellsbury’s 27 stolen bases and .389 OBP leading the offensive attack of the World Champion Boston Red Sox.

I bet you wouldn’t want Jose Reyes, Jimmy Rollins, Hanley Ramirez or even RAFAEL FURCAL leading leading the Braves offensive attack either because speed and base running evidently doesn’t help, according to you !

For fifteen straight seasons the Braves had a legitimate running game and they beat left handed pitching every year. Since Furcal left after the 2005 season the running game has been non-existent and the Braves have had three straight seasons of losing baseball against south paws.

Hey, if you chose to believe that it’s just coincidence, be my guest. I choose to recognize the obvious.

The running game is back and in full force, Bobby Cox and the Braves need to get with the damn program or they will continue to be run over by other teams.

By Shaun

June 2, 2008 8:59 AM | Link to this

The Braves are obviously a great offensive and pitching/defensive team at home. They’ve been a great pitching/defensive team on the road but have been an average offensive team (they are last in runs and middle of the pack in on-base and slugging.)

Actually, they are pretty much dead even with their opponents in all the important offensive categories on the road, which helps explain all those one-run losses.

Braves Road - .247/.323/.397

Opponents - .242/.324/.395

When you are playing teams that even in their home parks, they obviously have the edge because they get to bat last.

Look at bases earned (TB + SB - CS)

Braves - 387

Opponents - 363

Only a 24-base difference.

Good news is, the Braves can obviously hit as they’ve shown the last few seasons and at home this season. Plus it’s not like they’ve been an awful offensive team on the road.

They just have to figure out how they can turn around a mediocre offense on the road. As I said earlier this week, if anyone can figure that out, they need a front office job right now. Just one of those weird baseball things that is impossible to explain.

By Lew

June 2, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

The only problem with having Hanley Ramirez play short is that he sucks as a shortstop. Yunel more than makes up for Hanley’s base stealing abilities with his defense.

By Lew

June 2, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

Just something to think about. Look at our last two steal attempts. Yunel was out trying to fake the Reds. Josh Anderson actually stole second and they turned around and walked Chipper, taking the bat out of his hands (that’s actually happened a couple times this year.

Speed kills-it’s just not quite certain who it kills. Maybe if we ran smart and not indiscriminately it would work.

As for speed killing us-I saw us lose yesterday by a 6-2 score. That was with McCann throwing out two stealing runners in, I believe, two attempts. Speed obviously didn’t kill us in THAT loss. As for us running-you actually have to have runners on base to do it. We didn’t. Speed was a moot point.

By FloridaBrave

June 2, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

brent a,

Even with Tex being better left-handed right now, I don’t think it should mean pitching to a guy hitting over .400 when he’s been subpar.

Then again, he’s starting to snap out of it and Chipper hasn’t hit for power lately so they might start going after Chipper now.

By Braveheart

June 2, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

Derek Jeter is now dating Lila from Friday Night Lights. I would say he is a lucky dog but I think Riggins is gonna hunt him down and beat him down.

By Defender of Coach

June 2, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

Shaun, your missed the part about Jacoby Ellsbury’s 27 stolen bases and .389 OBP leading the offensive attack of the World Champion Boston Red Sox.

I bet you wouldn’t want Jose Reyes, Jimmy Rollins, Hanley Ramirez or even RAFAEL FURCAL leading leading the Braves offensive attack either because speed and base running evidently doesn’t help, according to you !Coach

You are again using OBP included with speed. Since any of us would be happy with a lead-off guy with an OBP of .389 whether he stole bases or not. Any number of people have said on here that they are against speed what they are against is guys who only have speed. Even you must recognize the difference between say Henderson with an OBP of .400 which would cause him to be an excellent lead-off guy even without all that speed, and say Anderson whose OBP will likely be .325 or so in the bigs. Give us a guy who can get on base at a .385 clip and we will be happy, if he can steal 80% of whatever attempts he makes that’s great too, but you can stick your low OBP guys who have no assets but speed where the sun don’t shine. Get us an Ellsbury and we will be thrilled to have him lead-off(even Shaun I’m certain).On the other hand the fact remains that teams with a lot of steals do not necessarily score any more runs than teams without as the Braves/Mets comparisons of the last few years point out. Stop with the rants about speed alone and quit copnsfusing it with guys with speed who can get on base too, ot I’m afraid that I’m going to have to stop defending you all the time.

By JCFROMUT

June 2, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

Any news on Resop? Any other teams interested in him? I can’t imagine no one would not want to take a chance on him and give at least a low minot leaguer. It is better than just releasing him.

By Paul Hamilton

June 2, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this

This Braves team is a joke on the road. If they don’t overcome this mental block soon, they won’t be making the post season this year. All it’s going to take it one bad series or two at home and it’s going to spiral downward. I actually saw Bobby Cox get p** off in interviews about the way the team is playing the other day. Was that a first? Where are all the damn leaders on this team???

By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)

June 2, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

Lew, you must not have watched Saturday’s game. Speed killed the Braves in the ninth inning.

Ryan Freel came into the game as a pinch runner and scored by using his fast feet to beat the throw home from first base.

Freel tied the game with his base running ability allowing the Reds to win the game in the tenth with the home run.

And just yesterday the Reds again used small ball to score in the seventh inning by executing a perfect suicide squeeze. The Reds played small ball and long ball during all three games. It should be no surprise that they swept Atlanta.

I’ll put it as simply as possible to describe exactly what is wrong with the Braves offensive approach to baseball.

TO MANY CHIEFS AND NOT ENOUGH INDIANS, TO MUCH THUNDER AND NOT ENOUGH LIGHTNING. THIS BEER LEAGUE SOFTBALL STYLE OF ATTACK ISN’T GETTING IT DONE ANYMORE.

By Shaun

June 2, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

Lew, another way to look at it: Compare teams’ total bases and walks to their steals. It’s virtually impossible for stealing bases to make that huge of a difference.

Steals aren’t a bad thing. I’m all for stealing bases. But it’s kind of silly to build a team around base stealing over on-base ability and slugging ability. Yes, it would be nice to have both, but that’s hard to do. And given a choice, you take the on-base and slugging.

By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)

June 2, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

Defender, I neither want nor do I need anybody defending me. Got it ! Good, have a nice day !

By Shaun

June 2, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

Coach, yes, a leadoff walk to Adam Dunn and a line-drive single by Votto didn’t make much difference. It was all Ryan Freel’s speed, right?

Braves have the second-fewest steals in the NL at home. But they are nearly unbeatable and have scored the fourth-most runs at home. Seems the “thunder” and the “beer league softball style of attack” is getting it done at home. How do you explain that, since you are obviously have all the answers on baseball offenses?

I guess the speed just shows up at home. Never mind the fact that their OPS is .109 points better at home. That’s trivial. It’s that they all the sudden become more speedy at home.

By DefenderofCoach

June 2, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Defender, I neither want nor do I need anybody defending me. Got it ! Good, have a nice day !Coach

Sure you do coach, you are just too foolish to know it. Look at all the responses to your posts. They are almost all not only negative, but extremely so. You should try a little reason instead of your one-sided rants concerning speed alone and your dubious claims concerning left-handers. I know that you can’t really mean that you do not appreciate my efforts to defend your somewhat tarnished reputation. Always appreciate a friend old chap. There are few enough folks in the world who will stand up for you, or anybody else for that matter. As Always. DoC

By Shaun

June 2, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

Coach reminds me of Dusty Baker talking about how good a player Corey Patterson is because he doesn’t clog up the basepaths. Well, Corey Patterson is down in the minors NOT clogging up the basepaths while Jay Bruce is actually doing things that are helping the Reds win.

By DirtyDawg

June 2, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

I’m beginning to believe that the Braves’ biggest problem is that they’re chicken-s**t. They’re simply not mean enough. Here is a team - admittedly hot, but still a second division team in the Central - that’s rubbing our noses in it and we meekly go along. That little twerp - Wainright, or Waynescoat, or whatever - gives McCann a ration of crap for Blanco’s bunt and Brian doesn’t salvo him with the mask…OK that would be an immediate suspension, or worse, but Boyer’s standing out there with a ball in his hand and doesn’t put one behind his ear - like to see him bunt that one.

The Braves are gutless. We get, what, four batters hit in a home series by Arizona, or somebody, and nobody even comes close to retaliating? I was struck by an observation by one of the Brave announcers when they handed JJ the ‘marked’ ball when Junior came to the plate with a chance to hit his 600th…he said, can you imagine what Don Drysdale or Bob Gibson would have done with the next pitch? Well, until the Braves start to show some fight they won’t be any better on the road and will just be a bunch of wimps at home.

Show some damn fight, will ya’?

By Lew

June 2, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

No, speed did not win the game for the Reds Saturday, the Braves’ inept defense did. If the defense had made the play the way they should have and McCann had actually blocked the plate, Freel’s speed would have been yet another Moot Point.

Besides-let’s not mistake team speed for base stealing ability. The Braves are not great base stealers (though when they DO run, they are successful more often than not), but as a team, they have plenty of speed. We’ve discussed this difference before, but apparently some don’t pay attention because they already know everything. But, we’ve been through THAT before, too.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

June 2, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

Well, this past weekend sucked! I have to disagree with Chipper a little. Something needs to be done. I think some screaming and yelling need to take place. This current “stay calm” approach isn’t working.

By DAP

June 2, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

my worst fear at this point is that the braves will stop winning at home.

and we are screwed if hudson is out of a long time. id say if he misses more than a couple of starts, were in BIG trouble.

and weve got tuff lefty tonight in olsen. im nervous.

By LT-AA Blogger

June 2, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

Agreed with Bill- this is one of those make or break weeks.

I’d be fine with a .500 week just to keep pace. With the way this team is playing, it’s appears to be a lot to ask. It seems more likely their home record will even out before the road record.

I am getting frustrated with BC not trying to shake things up with this line up. There is just little to no come back with these guys. Once they’re down late in the game, that seems to be it. That sort of thing doesn’t seem to by cyclical in baseball- a team either has it or doesn’t.

Oh well, the next week I think will be a large indicator.

By eric the elder

June 2, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

Yunel-gate might be old news (i.e., yesterday), and perhaps all possible explanations have been put forth: leg, Pena, finger, cockiness, leadoff discomfort, and an increasing resistance to cleaning up Bobby’s dixie cups at the end of a game.

However, we might also consider the possibility that Yunel is a competitive spirit who suffers from the 3R syndrome: Rollins, Reyes, Ramirez - - all shortstops, all in the NL East, all leading off, and all generally regarded as in a higher tier than Yunel is.

By putting Yunel in the leadoff position, we are putting him (at least in his mind) in direct competition with those three, thereby asking him to do more than he is capable of and to get away from the best parts of his game.

Just a possibility. Who can know?

By prattvillenolzfan

June 2, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

HEY COACH

Speed didn’t win the game when Freel went home.

Soriano not faking a throw cost us the game.

If Soriano fakes a throw, he keeps Freel at 3rd AND still has enough time to throw the runner out.

The reason we sucked last week-end is because the hitters were too impatient at the plate. Remember how we worked the count against Santana, Johnson, et al….last week..

We totally got away from it during the road trip

By BravesRule

June 2, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

Coach, yes, a leadoff walk to Adam Dunn and a line-drive single by Votto didn’t make much difference. It was all Ryan Freel’s speed, right?Shaun

You are wasting your time talking to and idiot Shaun; as is anyone else who attempts to use logic with the dummy. The guy knows a tiny little bit about one thing so that is all he can talk about. Talk about a hard-headed fanatic.

By STRETCH

June 2, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

Well in Saturdays game, you dot walk the leadoff man in the bottom of the ninth! Second, if you gonna hold him on 3rd, make a better attempt.

These guys are doing the same thing they have been doing for the past 3 years.

And Bobby Cox is going to do what he’s been doing as long as management allows. And he’ll turn around and sign an extension after the 2009 season too while continuing to SUCK.

By Shaun

June 2, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

I’m beginning to believe that the Braves’ biggest problem is that they’re chicken-st. They’re simply not mean enough.

So how do explain the fact that their great at home? They just get mean at home?

This current “stay calm” approach isn’t working.

What about at home? You think the stay calm approach is working at home or are they not staying calm at home?

my worst fear at this point is that the braves will stop winning at home.

My worst fear is that they’ll continue to struggle on the road. They aren’t going to play as great as they have at home all season. But they should play better on the road eventually. Although they are playing worse on the road than at home, they really aren’t being outplayed on the road. They are just playing pretty much equal to their opponents and the opponents are of course going to have the edge at their parks.

By David O'Brien

June 2, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, is that true, Derek Jeter dating Lila from FNL? Damn. Jete really is akin to a modern-day Joe Namath in New York….

Morning, all. We’ll have a new blog before noon.

By DecaturDog

June 2, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

Can anyone remember a group of baseball players who are more fragile than this Braves team?

Is this age of technology aiding in training and fitness, this team seems to be made up of players of putty. It is June 2nd, for criminy sake…not September 2nd.

They are either a big group of pusses or the strength and conditioning folks need to be “hitting the road”.

By Braves70

June 2, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Hooray for former Brave and now White Sox Manager, Ozzie Guillen. He wrapped up in a statement about his team what Braves fans have been feeling about our team: “I’m sick and tired to watch this thing for a year and a half. I’m not protecting anybody anymore. (Bleep) it. If they can’t get it done, Kenny (Williams) should find someone to get it done.” Replace Williams with Frank Wren and you have my exact sentiments. Oh for an Ozzie Guillen to manage this bunch rather than Bobby Cox.

By DAP

June 2, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

Braves70 bold statement indeed by ozzie. he even went as far as to say if getting a new manager is what it takes, do it.

his rant was very unproffessional, and I would fire him, but yes, he sums up the feelings about the braves team pretty well.

By Shaun

June 2, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

How’s this for an explanation?: The Braves players are trying to win. Bobby Cox is trying to win. They aren’t really making any more mistakes than other teams, and in fact they are making fewer mistakes than a lot of teams. Their bad games just have happened to come on the road so far (which to some degree we may expect given that teams generally play worse on the road). Plus they aren’t getting breaks on the road (hence the one-run losses). Going beyond that (they don’t have the desire to win on the road, Bobby Cox is a moron, etc.) is just nonsensical speculation because those aspects of the game can’t be all that different at home than on the road. And my guess is none of us have a clue what’s causing the bad games and bad breaks. We can come on and pretend that we know Bobby Cox is a moron or a lack of speed is killing them or that they have no leadership or whatever but the truth is nobody knows what’s going on and why. Some of you just want to fill in the gaps because you can’t stand that their are things that are unexplainable and you want to seem like you know things.

By Random

June 2, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

Here you go, Crabby Bill — expand your horizons:

**SEQUESTRATION POTENTIAL OF THE MADISON OF THE NORTHERN GREAT PLAINS AQUIFER SYSTEM

Braveheart: “I will never possess the way with words that scribe, bob and jimmy do.”

Maybe yes, maybe no, but at least you usually have something worthwhile to say, regardless of how you may think you must labor to say it.

Which was never (or very rarely) the case with the entities mentioned.

By Efrim

June 2, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

Braves are:

7-2 vs. Mets

3-5 vs. Nationals

2-5 vs. Pirates

0-3 vs. Rockies

2-3 vs. Marlins

3-0 vs. Dodgers

3-3 vs. Reds

3-0 vs. Padres

1-2 vs. Phillies

2-1 vs. Athletics

2-2 vs. D’Backs

1-2 vs. Brewers

13-12 vs. NL East

8-5 vs. NL West

6-10 vs. NL Central

1-2 vs. AL West

29-28 overall

By Shaun

June 2, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

Braves70, yeah, because Bobby Cox’s approach didn’t work for, I don’t know, 14 years?

DecaturDog, I would guess the Braves don’t hold the record for number of players on the DL through this point in the season.

By Efrim

June 2, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

Braves70

I don’t want a manager who calls out his players like Ozzie. It’s not like the Braves aren’t trying. They are. They have had some bad breaks in the first third of the season. More bad breaks than I have ever seen a baseball team have. Will things turn around? Maybe not. It’s possible that they will continue to be unlucky all season.

By Shaun

June 2, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

Braves70, yes, and Ozzie Guillen’s approach worked so well in 2004 and 2007 and got them into the playoffs in 2006, didn’t it?

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

June 2, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

Shaun, they feel more comfortable at home. All I’m saying is this whole “everything is going to be alright attitude” on the road isn’t working. Do you think it is? What do you think the problem is? Bad luck?

By Braves70

June 2, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

Let’s see, I think Ozzie Guillen has 1 World Championship in about 5 years of managing while Bobby Cox has 1 World Championship in over 25 years of managing. I like my odds with Guillen.

By Steve from OH

June 2, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

Ozzie Guillen is a terrible manager.

By Efrim

June 2, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

Braves70

Let’s see, I think Ozzie Guillen has 1 World Championship in about 5 years of managing while Bobby Cox has 1 World Championship in over 25 years of managing. I like my odds with Guillen.

That makes no sense. Bob Brenly won a World Series and only coached a few years. He was a terrible manager. Why not take their overall record? You’ll probably bring up the fact that Cox had the Big Three. How about 2004 and 2005? Those were excellent jobs of managing by BC.

By DJ

June 2, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

Just checking in on the Hate Bobby Cox Anonymous blog….

The problem is that too many of these Braves are simply choke-artists. They are just mentally weak. Period. During the division title run, Bobby’s approach and the players’ approach to 162 games worked. They simply were going to win because they didn’t get too high or too low. They saved the choking for the post-season…because they did the same thing. They never got “high” enough in the post-season and their opponents did.

Now, however, they have players that are pressing too much in tight games. They simply don’t know how to win the close ones and it’s in their heads. Chipper, Smoltz and Glavine telling them how to do it doesn’t help. The “Baby Braves” are the problem. They have to learn how to win and be consistent.

This isn’t on Bobby, unless you think he has ruined their minds…because it’s all in their heads. The team isn’t mediocre in terms of talent. It’s mediocre in terms of results because of their heads.

One thing is certain. The home vs. road disparity won’t continue. They will either get it together and win on the road and in close games (remember the comeback win against the Orioles that turned around the season a few years ago?), or their road woes will get into the heads at home. I think this home stand will prove the latter, unfortunately.

Blame Bobby if you will…but these players don’t know how to handle pressure.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 2, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

Efrim/Shaun vs. Braves70 —

This is the Earl Weaver vs Billy Martin debate. Martin was entertaining to the fans, and he won (so did Earl), but I imagine the clubhouse wasn’t exactly the friendliest place. Ozzie is Larry Bowa with an accent.

This is purely a hunch, I wouldn’t be surprised if Blanco is in the leadoff spot Tuesday vs. the righty. His bunt single yesterday was the sort of hustle play that occasionally awakens Bobby from his trance and convinces him to make a change.

That may depend on what Yunel does tonight, of course.

By Efrim

June 2, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

BravesFaninRockies

I wouldn’t mind Blanco in the leadoff spot and Yunel in the 2 hole. It’s amazing how much better this team looks when Mark Kotsay is healthy.

By Josh from Columbus

June 2, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

Why HASN’T Bobby made the move to put Blanco in the lead-off spot yet? Does anyone know? DOB? Is it just “Bobby being Bobby”?

By DAP

June 2, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

i just hope bobby moves blanco to the leadoff spot. even if he doesnt do well, it wont be worse than what yunel is doing there. its been brutal. blanco needs to at least get a chance there while yunel is slumping. heres the lineup id like to see tonight.

1. blanco CF 2. Escobar SS 3. chipper 3B 4. tex 1B 5. McCann C 6. Frenchy RF 7. Johnson 2B 8. Infante LF

By Todd A

June 2, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

How in the world do you lose 30 consecutive one run road games? How is that even possible? The futility under the Braves’ overrated manager just continues to amaze me. Cox should not have been given an option to return in ‘09. Time to put his @$$ out to pasture.

By 22oz

June 2, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

Bobby is well known to make changes about 3 to 4 weeks after they are needed. Still a few more weeks before Blanco leads off.

By ncscoots

June 2, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

Random, you’re mostly ignorable, but dissing a group of guys who still have a lot of friends in this forum can bring some attention your way pretty quick, if that’s what you seek.

When you can start delivering some content that’s even close to those guys, rather than the self-obsessed drivel you normally post, your opinion might actually mean something other than squat.

I’m not holding my breath awaiting the occurrence.

By Austin

June 2, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

Efrim

Agrred. I never thought Kotsay would make this team look so much better in the lineup card. He is a tough out. Especially with his .343 avg against RHP. He’s got a cannon arm and pop in his bat. He has been a true player on this team.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 2, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

I will say that if the Braves were to replace Bobby with a Guillen-type and they keep the core of the team together, they might well win in the new manager’s first couple of years. Teams that change managers and bring in someone who’s a 180 from his predecessor sometimes perform much better.

The O’s won a WS right after Weaver was replaced by easy-going Joe Altobelli; Leyland won with the Tigers after replacing Trammell.

That would take nothing away from Bobby’s HOF career. Just that sometimes a change of personality makes a difference.

By Goodoleboy58

June 2, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

Carroll or DOB,

With Fookie’s injury do you think this lessens his free agent price tag and increases the likelyhood of Wren and Co. adding him back in the off-season? The more I think about it the more I would like an Escobar, Furcal to KJ doubleplay combo… I’m still learly of investing anything over 14 million a year for Furcal

By DAP

June 2, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Austin and Efrim wow, i hadnt even thought about kotsay like that, but you guys are right. hes like renteria was for us. when edgar went down last year, it was all over for us.

By Todd A

June 2, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

How many managers in baseball history have had 3 HOF starting pitchers on the same pitching staff for 10+ seasons? And The Braves have only one stinking WS championship to show for it. You Cox apologists can stick your head in the sand all you want, but he needs to be shown the door after this season. It should have happened after the ‘98 season, but that’s a subject for a different day. If the Braves don’t act, this charade will continue like a bad dream every time his contract is about to expire. He’s just like Vince Dooley, he won’t just leave. his departure is waaaaay overdue. And just like N8 said, it may get worse after he leaves because the players are so used to him, but I’m willing to chance a last place season or so to get this ship righted with a younger coach, with fresh ideas.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 2, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Efrim and Austin,

Yeah, who would have thought before the season that Kotsay would be such a linchpin? We got him to play a decent CF and hit 8th, remember?

By Jersey Gil

June 2, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

I been tried to compare this team again the phillis, as must of you know my wife is a phillis fan, so i been watching a bunch of there games, and i found is not a great different between the First three Batter.The combination of Rollins,Victorino and Utley has combine of 26HR,103Run,279TB,82RBI. Braves first three has:21HR,91Run,301TB,84RBI. there very similar, but when you compare theirs bench that where the Bus stop,the combo of Phillis :Dobbs,Brunlett,Coste and Tegushi has 54R,98H,49RBI Braves: Gotay,Miller,Infante,Norton has 17R,32H,15RBI……Last year Beanch is better than this beanch.If the Braves need to Upgrade the Bench real soon…i mean NOW if they want to WIN.

By eric the elder

June 2, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

Shaun

Some of you just want to fill in the gaps because you can’t stand that their are things that are unexplainable and you want to seem like you know things.

Precisely why there are so many religious zealots.

By Efrim

June 2, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

DAP

With the way Kotsay was hitting, his loss is huge. His return to the lineup will also allow Blanco to move to LF and play most days instead of Norton and Infante, their used best as reserves- obviously.

By Lew

June 2, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

Bad Music News-Bo Diddley is dead. Just saw that George Thoroughgood video with him playing pool with the Bo the other day. What a classic video and what a loss of a true legend-influential to many musicians.

By Lee in S. GA

June 2, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Last year Beanch is better than this beanch.If the Braves need to Upgrade the Bench real soon…i mean NOW if they want to WIN.

Jersey Gil -

I don’t know about last year’s bench being better. The Braves’ bench was leading the N.L. in pinch hits according to one of the announcers going into Saturday’s game. Last year we can do endure with the like of Woodcrap, Orr and Wilson (part of the year). This present bench has to be better than those guys. I sure have more confidence in these guys.

By Lee in S. GA

June 2, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

Precisely why there are so many religious zealots.

So true….so true…. Eric the elder.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 2, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Sad news indeed. His health has been declining for awhile. I was supposed to see him perform with the great Johnnie Johnson (Chuck Berry’s piano player) four years ago at the Long Beach Blues Festival. Bo canceled about a week before the show because he was sick. (The Original Blasters took his slot — and mind you, it was a legendary show. The Alvin boys on stage …)

Then Johnnie passed on a few months later, so I missed seeing both of them.

BTW, Zevon fans, WZ did a killer Bo Diddley medley on his “Stand in the Fire” live album.

By Tomahawkin' Again (like it's 1995)

June 2, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

Why are we so surprised that this team is 29-28? This is now the 3rd straight year of us being an average ballclub. The upper management hasn’t yet come to grips with reality. Stop bringing in over the hill pitchers like Glavine, stop ransacking our farm system and instead let the young talent develop. Can you imagine if we had the management for the Marlins calling the shots for the Braves? You can take all the shots you want at the way the Marlins are cheap and play at a joke of a stadium…but, 2 World Series titles since 1997 is 2 more than us. They are playing harder, smarter, are younger and currently playing better than Atlanta is. Getting swept by the Reds and going 1-5 on this recent road trip is the final indictment of the 2008 Braves. Mediocre, old, boring and destined for a 3rd straight season out of the playoffs.

By DOB's lazy azz

June 2, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

In case you were wondering, I had to take a week off because I have covered approximately 80 percent of the first 50 games of the Braves season. This following the entire off season when I did absolutely nothing.

I am currently promising a new blog by noon and not delivering. Please do not disturb me.

By Shaun

June 2, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

I’m open to the possibility that Bobby has lost something. But I also am doubtful when there are no glaring examples of anything he’s done to cost the Braves games. And I think he deserves the benefit of the doubt. With his success he deserves to retire on his terms.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Managers get too much credit and too much blame. I don’t think a manager matters as much as some think. I think you pretty much have to go by reputation and results. And over the course of his career it’s hard to find managers who have gotten Cox’s results and who have a better reputation.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

June 2, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Oh, unfair shot at DOB! Don’t worry, brother, most of us still love ya!

By Kentavo

June 2, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

Excuse me if it’s been mentioned here, but don’t ya’ think the Braves’ offensive woes can be traced to the loss of Edgar Renteria? Have the Braves ever had a more steady presence in the no. 2 hole than when Edgar was here? I know why they traded him and love Escobar and Jurrgens, but I think we’re seeing the result of losing the most consistent no. 2 hitter in baseball.

By Shaun

June 2, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

Shaun, they feel more comfortable at home. All I’m saying is this whole “everything is going to be alright attitude” on the road isn’t working. Do you think it is? What do you think the problem is? Bad luck?

Robert, teams generally have an edge at home and are at a disadvantage on the road. You look at the composite record of every team since 1901, you’ll see that. But the Braves have taken it to the extreme.

I don’t think one-run games are all about luck but when a team is good in virtually every other scenario is that bad in one-run games, I think we have to assume luck plays a pretty big role in those one-run losses.

Also, the offense is last in scoring and mediocre in other important categories on the road, while they are near the top in the important categories at home. So for some reason they are having their bad games on the road. Some of that is to be expected because, again, teams generally play poorer on the road. Some of it is bad luck, as is evident in their record in one-run games. As far as why they are playing even poorer than most teams on the road and have been so unlucky on the road, I don’t think anyone has a clue.

By N8

June 2, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

Shaun

“Some of you just want to fill in the gaps because you can’t stand that their are things that are unexplainable and you want to seem like you know things.”

Let’s not forget to change the “you” in your post to an “us”.

You do the same thing dude. You use numbers and past history, to determine that things SHOULD turn around and eventually “even out” on the road.

From my angle, that is NO MORE logical than any idea that anybody else on this blog comes up with.

Or do you disagree? Just don’t sit there acting like you don’t do a helluva lot of speculating as well.

You just happen to be more calm about it. Good for you. I’m glad you can NOT be a fanatic about it. But your logic, is no more logical than what many of us SEE with our eys while watching the game, no matter what past numbers or previous patterns say SHOULD happen.

Bottom line is that this team is NOT winning on the road.

They can sit around and wait for it to change (like they did the past 2 seasons), or try and do something about it.

I’ll stop pretending to know what the “be all, end all” resolution to that is. But by all means, Bobby….TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT!

As for all you Cox supporters (which is fine - I can “get” why you like the guy, what I can’t understand, based on the END results more often than not - is why most of you can’t understand why many do NOT like him - to each his own, right?), that are so afraid that there is not a chance in hell of the Braves doing anything good without him….

Take a look at Roger McDowell.

EVERYBODY has raved and raved and raved at Bobby’s “handling” of a patchwork bullpen. Which is fair. He has done a darn good job of using guys where they have a chance to succeed.

Other than maybe over-using some guys early this year (and not using Resop or Stockman in blowouts - saving Boyer and others for when it matters), I can’t really complain in general of how he’s handled the bullpen.

But why no love for McDowell?????

For two years we had to listen (and read) to HUNDREDS of posts asking if Leo could be hired back, because Roger sucks, and this pitching staff sucks. Blah, blah, blah….

Here we are, 3 years into the Roger McDowell era for our pitchers, and we lead the league in ERA. Where is Leo Mazzone? Yup. Doing broadcasts of Braves games for Fox, after taking over for an Orioles staff, and leaving them in worse shape than when he started (ERA wise).

I’m not saying Bobby is the ONLY reason we stink. In fact, I’m very much willing to admit that some of the good things he does with the players might make up for some of his faults.

I’m just ready for a new leader. Nothing more. Nothing less. Nothing personal.

So many people fear change, yet the three instances of “change” that scared the hell out of Braves fans have turned out just fine in the past few years.

Furcal left. Renteria entered and has since made way for Escobar. One could argue that we could use Furcal’s speed. Sure we could. But last time I checked, he’s making 13 million dollars (or about 12.5 million more than Escobar is).

Leo leaves. Everybody panics (along with thinking the Orioles are gonna over-take the Yankees and Red Sox). Nope. Roger is doing just fine, thank you.

Andruw leaves. Granted Kotsay is hurt right now (but so is Andruw), and there is NO DENYING that Kotsay has outplayed AJ this year (at a fraction of the cost).

Don’t fear the unknown people….it just may be for the better. Who knows, right?

By Jersey Gil

June 2, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

LeeMy Stat is not including Pitch Hitting from the bench…There are player there are not in the day to day line up total Hits. If you want to include Kotsay 50H,Diaz 33H,Blanco 32H again Werth34H and Jenkins 43H, the Phillis total will be 175H again Braves 147. In just this week Jenkins came out the bench and have two Homer. The other think is Atlanta is playing with bad luck, is part of the Game…Hitting cluth…also part of the Game. How i can explain a Team second in the league in Batting and first in ERA can be in 4th. I hope the second half ours luck change and the Phillis Bats going cool.

By Efrim

June 2, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

Let’s just hope the home magic doesn’t dissapear this week. It sure shouldn’t, right? I guess we will find out. I’ll say one thing though, if Tim Hudson is more hurt than he is leading on, this team is in big trouble. Huge trouble. They need his leadership and innings pitched in this rotation.

By J.D. Phillips

June 2, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

Well if things don’t change soon maybe the Braves can set a new MLB record for the worse winning % on the road for one season and also the most loses by a 1 run deficient in a season. This can be added to Bobby’s record book also.

By Efrim

June 2, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

N8

I have no problem with people who have a problem with BC as long as their is good reason for it. If you are just pointing to this season, then I don’t agree and can’t understand why. If you are looking at 4 straight first round exits followed by two seasons of .500 baseball then I understand that more. Looking at those series and the last two seasons makes me think that this team has been more unlucky than any team in history. I get that you want a change, and you’ll get it in 2010. At least I think you will.

By David O'Brien

June 2, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Well that took longer than expected. but NEW BLOG is up, people.

By 1957 Braves Fan

June 2, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Despite all these losses our Braves are just 3.5 games away from the division lead. Its either turn it around or spend the winter looking forward to 2009. Two solo home runs are not enough to win most games. Can’t score then can’t win.

By David O'Brien

June 2, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

Robert, thanks. But let me assure you: not overly “worried.”

By Braves20

June 2, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

Todd A - To answer you question posed at 12:02, there was one - Al Lopez who during his career managed Early Wynn, Bob Feller and Bob Lemon.

While you can nit pick that Feller’s career was winding down during Lopez’ stay in Cleveland, it can also be argued that he had better 4-5 guys than Cox in Mike Garcia, Art Houtemann and even the great Hal Newhouser when he still had some gas left in the tank. Plus another pitcher who was one line-drive away from the Hall of Fame - Herb Score.

He also had a better pen with Don Mossi and Ray Narleski - a great left-right punch.

And how many World Championships did the great Lopez win with that staff and some pretty decent ones is Chicago - one less than Bobby Cox.

By Shaun

June 2, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

N8, I simply try to explain things where I can. Yes, I do say things should turn around. But that’s a lot different than asserting they will and acting like that’s a fact. Or asserting something like “Cox is a moron.” Why not just say, as you are saying, “maybe Cox has lost something,” instead of being so sure that Cox is the root of all evil.

I don’t think people are afraid of change. I think people just see what Cox has done over his career and think he deserves the benefit of the doubt. It would be different if there was something glaring we could point to that shows Cox definitely has costs the Braves multiple games.

It’s not about people being afraid the Braves can’t do anything without Cox. I for one expect that other managers could lead this team just as well as Cox. It’s just that Cox is so respected by everyone (within and outside the game) and has done so much good in his career, that we think he should go whenever he wants to go.

As far as McDowell and Andruw and Renteria—there were probably just as many people defending the moves to bring in McDowell and let Andruw and Renteria go as there were people criticizing those moves. It’s different from Bobby’s situation. I don’t know of anyone who was afraid of the change from Andruw to some other player. I know there were plenty of people who thought that Leo moving on wouldn’t have as much of an impact as some thought. I know plenty on here who thought Escobar would be just find taking over for Edgar. I don’t see a fear of change, just a respect for Bobby.

By NO MORE BOBBY

June 2, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

Did tonights lineup make sense with the team really needing a victory after another horrible road trip? Its now become funny and all you Bobby Cox lovers enjoy a team that maybe can finish 500 if lucky.

Go Cubs!! (My number two team is now my first because they unlike Atlanta are not afraid to fire a manager and make change.)

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June 6, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

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