AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > June > 06 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USHo-hum, Hoss belts 400th while hitting over .400
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Ho-hum, Thursday was another four-hit day at the office for Chipper Jones, who punctuated the work day with his 400th home run, jointing Eddie Murray and some dude named Mickey Mantle as the only switch-hitters to accomplish that feat.
And while Murray (504 homers) and the Mick (536) are still a long way ahead of Hoss in the homer department, I’m no longer of the belief he can’t catch them. Well, at least Murray.
(Trivia note: Did you know Murray also hit his 400th in Atlanta? Off Marvin Freeman in 1992. OK, back to the blog…)
Or don’t you folks agree that Chipper could realistically hit at least 105 more homers? I mean, if he averages 20 a year after this season, he could do that by hanging on for five more seasons (assuming he gets five or more the rest of this season), and he told me he wants to play four to six more years.
I think it’s becoming pretty clear now that Chipper is headed for the Hall of Fame someday.
Now, it’s just a matter of whether he could be a first-ballot selection. What do you think it’ll take? I’m guessing that 450 homers and a plus-.300 average (he’s currently at .310) and plus-.400 OBP (he’s at .406) with, say, 1,600 RBI (he’s at 1,338) would get him in on the first ballot, or at least very close.
Oh, by the way, a batting title and another MVP award would sure help cement first-ballot status. While it’s way too early to talk MVP, especially considering the seasons that Chase Utley and Lance Berkman are having, the batting title is a reasonable goal for a guy who leads the league by more than 30 points this far into the season.
For those wondering how Chipper’s done month-by-month through his career, it’s interesting to note that his best overall offensive months have been April, July and August, and his worst have been May and June.
So that sure could bode well for a guy’s chances of hitting four hund… oh, I’m not even going to say it yet. Let’s wait a few weeks and see if he keeps that average in this stratosphere.
But career-wise, he’s hit .294 in May, .295 in June, .328 in July, .313 in August, .309 in September and .381 in just 14 October regular-season games.
He’s got a .305 career average (and .399 OBP, .538 slugging) before the All-Star break, and a .317 average (.415 OBP, .564 slugging) after the break.
Folks, if anybody’s been better situated to hit .400 since Tony Gwynn’s .394 in the strike-shortened 1994 season, then I’m not aware of who that person would be.
By the way, Chipper has identical .310 career averages against left-handers and right-handers.
Finally, does anyone realize it’s been nearly a year since U Kno Who was on the disabled list? That’s hard to believe, huh?
Since he came back from the DL last June 13 after being out with bone bruises on his hands, Chipper has hit .378 (214-for-566) with a .462 OBP and 1.084 OPS in 148 games, with 39 doubles, 3 triples, 31 homers, 114 RBIs, 92 walks and 69 strikeouts.
The Braves are 80-68 in games he’s played in that stretch, and 1-9 in games without him. That’s right, he’s played all but 10 of their 158 games since June 13.
It took him a few weeks to get his power stroke back after he got back from that last DL stint for the bruised hands. Since July 5, he’s hit .378 with 37 doubles, 30 homers, 102 RBI in 129 games, with a whopping 1.128 OPS in that span.
Jurrjens slips a bit: Reminding us that even the best rookies are still rookies, Jair Jurrjens is 1-0 with an 8.40 ERA and .406 opponents’ average in his past three starts, with 28 hits, 14 earned runs, four homers, 10 walks and 10 strikeouts in 15 innings.
This after he went 5-3 with a 2.64 ERA and .219 opponents’ average in his first 10 starts, with 50 hits, 18 earned runs, one homer, 22 walks and 45 strikeouts in 61-1/3 innings.
The Braves have scored nearly 11 runs per nine innings he’s pitched in his past three starts, which is why he’s not suffered a loss in that stretch. As much as Bobby Cox is prone to hyperbole and protecting his players, Jurrjens really did pitch better than last night’s line (6 innings, 11 hits, 5 runs) would indicated.
Not as great as Bobby said he did, mind you, but Jurrjens wasn’t as as bad as the line indicates. Lot of ground balls, some hits that found holes, some mistakes afield, etc.
Anyway, here’s the stat that still jumps out at me: Jurrjens has made 12 home starts in his career with Detroit and Atlanta, and his teams have won every one of those games. He is 7-0 with a 3.64 ERA in those 12 starts, with nearly seven support runs per nine innings.
Hey, maybe when guys love playing behind you, when you’re a pitcher who doesn’t make the defense stand on its collective heels through ponderous walk-a-thon, picking-at-the-corners innings, then just maybe that also translates to better production from those teammates when they get to bat.
Or maybe it’s just dumb luck.
Anyway, last night was the first time Jurrjens gave up more than four runs or eight hits in a home start, either with the Tigers or Braves.
Speaking of pitching stats: There’s a John Smoltz stat that always blows me away, that’s just about impossible to even wrap your brain around, and one of the few stats we didn’t include in our Smoltz package in the paper the other day after his season-ending surgery announcement.
It happened from midseason 2002 to midseason 2003, when Smoltz, then closing, went just one week shy of a full calendar year of pitching in nothing but Brave wins. Seventy-three in a row.
Yes, from June 1, 2002 to May 25, 2003, Smoltz posted a 1.42 ERA and .177 opponents’ average during a 73-appearance stretch in which the Braves were 73-0 in games when he pitched.
He was 3-0 with 60 saves converted in 62 opportunities in that stretch, while allowing just 47 hits (one homer) and 17 walks with 86 strikeouts in 76 innings. Sheer dominance.
Say what you will about Mariano Rivera as great closer of this generation, because Rivera’s postseason accomplishments have assured him of that distinction. And Trevor Hoffman’s longevity puts him in that discussion of greatest closers of our generation, too.
But for those three-plus seasons that Smoltz filled that role for the Braves, I’d have to say he was the best, most dominant closer in the game.
McCann under the radar: It’s been overshadowed by Chipper’s performance and the Smoltz saga and so much else that’s happened in the first 61 games for this Braves team, but Brian McCann is having one hell of a season.
He hit his 11th homer last night and is batting .307 with 19 doubles, 35 RBI, a .382 OBP and .574 slugging percentage in 56 games. Oh, and lest we not forget the amazing triple by the spry youngster.
I went back to see how this start compared to McCann’s performane through the same point in 2006, when in his first full season he he had one of the greatest offensive seasons since Johnny Bench by any catcher not named Piazza.
McCann finished that season at .333 with 34 doubles, 24 homers and 93 RBI, with a .388 OBP and .572 slugging percentage.
Through June 5 that season, he hit .347 with 10 doubles, five homers and 21 RBI in 40 games, 16 fewer than this season because of injuries. He had a .399 OBP (17 points higher than this season) and a .554 slugging percentage (20 lower).
It’ll be interesting to see how McCann holds up through the hot summer, because this is the healthiest he’s been in a long time and he could be on the way to a huge season to compare with that 2005 performance, which I frankly didn’t know if he’d ever be able to match.
Regardless, he’s certainly headed to his third All-Star Game in his third full season, which is pretty special.
Rock ‘n’ roll movies: Thought I’d bring this subject over from a late comment on the last blog, where I was asked whether I’d seen the movie The Commitments, and it was pointed out how the movie showed behind-the-scenes stuff that goes on in bands, conflicts that can fracture a group or whatever.
Yes, of course I’ve seen the movie (I’m of Irish and Scottish descent, after all). But if you want to see the things that can divide a band, you should rent two movies that show it actually happening, and in excruciating detail: Dig, an outstanding documentary that follows the very different fortunes of two bands that came along at same time — The Dandy Warhols, who had a couple of big hits, and the very talented but self-destructive Brian Jonestown Massacre (who have a huge cult following still, and are still putting out CDs).
Great movie. Not good, great.
And the other is the Metallica doc Some Kind of Monster. It’s hard to watch at times, they do so much bickering. But it’s utterly fascinating. And if you like the band at all, or even as long as you don’t actively dislike them and just like rock music in general, you really must see the movie.
“WILLIE, WAYLON AND ME” by David Alan Coe
I’d heard the Burritos out in California
could fly higher than The Byrds
Roger McQuinn had a 12 string guitar.
It was like nothing I’d ever heard
And the Eagles flew in from the west coast
Like the Byrds they were trying to be free
While in Texas the talk turned to Outlaws
Like Willie and Waylon and me.
Hey!
Well somewhere Texas music is in the make
And we’ve been making music that is free
Doing one night stands and playing with our bands
Willie, Waylon and me
Oh Mad Dog! go to lead
They say the Beatles were just the beginning
of everything music could be
Just like the Stones I was rolling a lone
Like a ship lost out on the sea
And Joplin would die for the future
And Dylan would write poetry
And in Texas the talk turned to Outlaws
Like Willie and Waylon and me
Hey!
My name is David Alan Coe and I’m from Dallas, Texas.
They say Texas music is in the make
And we’ve been making music that is free
Doing one night stands and playing with our bands
Willie, Waylon and me
Big Jim!
I’d heard the Burritos out in California
could fly higher than the Byrds
Roger McQuinn had a 12 string guitar.
It was like nothing I’d ever heard
And the Eagles flew in from the west coast
Like the Byrds they were trying to be free
While in Texas the talk turned to Outlaws
Like Willie and Waylon and me.
Services »
Comments
By StingerSplash
June 6, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
Third?
By Graham
June 6, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
I would think that, because Chipper is a switch-hitter, and his numbers are consistent, he is a first-ballot HOF. That is without reaching the 500 homerun plateau. I am sure, though, he will reach it.
By Coach Smith
June 6, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
braves win tonight…you heard it here first
By monty
June 6, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
The game turned out well in the end for the Baves last night. I happened to be one of the lucky ones at the Ted last night. There was a decision by Bobby Cox to let Jurrjens bat for himself with two outs and two runners on that could have blown the game open late in the game, I believe 5th or 6th inning after Jurrjens had already been shelled with 11 hits and 5 runs and had barely escaped the last inning. Jurjens hit a soft liner to Uggla to end the inning. I got to tell you everyone around me including myself could not believe Cox let him hit and in essence said, “it’s your game kid.” Possibly a good confidence builder by Cox, we’ll see. But at the time it seemed to all to be dumb as dirt.
By Lee in S. GA
June 6, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
DOB
I agree that Chipper could possiblity reach Murray’s home run record. Health is certainly the key issue with him being able to do that.
By McFann
June 6, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this
I never expected McCann to be as good as he is. I don’t think anyone did. Braveheart
Heh heh…Me neither. I still remember calling him “McCan’t” sometime back in ‘05 (though he wasn’t horrid then). Never questioned keeping him over Salty, though.
He will almost certainly go down as one of the greatest hitting catchers this town has ever seen. And although he’s only thrown out 17% of would-be base stealers this year, he’s only got one error and no passed balls. This time last year he had 6 errors.
he’ll likely be right up there with Murphy. Shaun
Yeah…Let’s just hope he’s not like Murphy in the sense that he goes on to the Phillies (or anybody)! ; )
Flange1—
Thanks for the apology. ; ) But, when Francoeur and McCann first came up, I, too, thought Francoeur would be better. I’m, uh…big enough to admit it. But then, I dunno…I think it was during the play-offs that I started to realize what a good player “McCan’t” truly was. After losing Julio Franco, it didn’t take me long to find a new favorite player. (I know, I know! Why was Julio my favorite? I don’t know…I thought he seemed like a nice guy, and I was new to the game.)
So then when 2006 began to unfold, I was thinkin’, “Boy, do I know how pick a favorite, or what?” (OK, sorry…But I couldn’t have been happier—unless he would’ve gotten the starting job in the Midsummer Classic over Paul Lo Duca.)
Anyway, sorry for the super-long post, but hey, it was a good topic!
(BTW—In the top ten???)
By Jeff321
June 6, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this
McCann would have even more rbi’s if people were actually on base when he got up to bat.. Which is why I feel keeping him in the 6th hole for most of the season is idiotic.
By Cecil34
June 6, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
DOB
You are so right about Some Kind of Monster - great movie.
And there is no question in my mind that Chipper, if he can average 120-130 games a year for the next 5 years, can surpass Murray. I even think he has an excellent shot at Mickey.
He is most likely going to hit over 40 homers this year alone.
Chipper is what we thought Darrell Evans was going to be after ‘73.
Of course Darrell’s stats won’t compare to what Chipper winds up with.
Not to mention His getting in the Hall.
I too am excited about McCann’s future - He is hitting a ton now, but should only get better in the coming years.
Provided his knees hold up.
By nate
June 6, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
I understand drafting so many pitchers. Young pitching is the coin of the realm in baseball right now. Its the choice of drafting high school pitchers over college pitchers that I don’t understand. College pitchers may not have as high a ceiling as high school pitchers, but they are much more likely to reach the majors and contribute. Drafting high school pitchers is a crap shoot and Braves haven’t been lucky over the past decade. Maybe its time to change strategy. As others have said, a mix of high risk / and near ready pitchers seems like a better strategy. If you’ve got a few sure things in the pipeline you can afford to take some risks.
By Herschel Talker
June 6, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
I am the man. So am I. And so am I. All of us are.
By DAP
June 6, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
nate from the last blog I understand drafting so many pitchers. Its the choice of drafting high school pitchers over college pitchers that I don’t understand.
like i said in my earlier post, the braves trust thier minor league system more than the others. they want thier pitcher taught and instructed and protected THEIR way. when you get a college guy, you get a guy who has been coached and instructed 3 or 4 years longer than a high school player. who might get someone who was taught in a way you dont like.
i dont KNOW if thats why the braves draft high school pitchers, that just why i think they do it.
By rupert
June 6, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
campillo has been good but you could almost say it has been a “duel starter” role with bennet because he always comes in the in the 5th or 6th for him and pitches a few, campillo looked like he came back down to earth a bit and if he is only going to give you 4-5 innings morton might get the call in a week or two, campillo could still go to the pen and be effective and not have to worry about the blisters as much etc. just a thought…
By Graham
June 6, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
I have to agree about McCann. I always thought that Francouer would be the better offensive player, but McCann has been consistent and aims to improve his game, not only physically, but mentally.
Francouer is trying to improve his game, but has a hard time breaking bad habits (swinging at the first pitch more times than not, lack of patience at the plate).
By ChampDawg
June 6, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
Offensively, I like McCann….. but he weak defensively. Too slow with the arm and still needs to learn how to position himself at the plate. I know the rule— can’t block the plate unless you have the ball, but he still plays out of position.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
As others have said, a mix of high risk / and near ready pitchers seems like a better strategy. If you’ve got a few sure things in the pipeline you can afford to take some risks.
Yup. I agree. Just a few high risks. Just a few. You could end up with a Hamels/Verlander talent.
By Drew
June 6, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
Nice blog, DOB. However you wrote the following about McCann…”because this is the healthiest he’s been in a long time and he could be on the way to a huge season to compare with that 2005 performance”. It was actually 2006 where he had that amazing season.
By Original Jon
June 6, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
Just incase no one saw this on the other blog
Here’s something cool if you guys and gals want to see what the scouting videos on the players the Braves have drafted so far. You can go to MLB.com and click on the draft tracker, then you can sort it by team, then, underneath each player is their scouting video. The guy the Braves took, DeVall, looks kinda like Trevor Hoffman with the leg kick. Its pretty cool.
By Lee in S. GA
June 6, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
*Chipper is what we thought Darrell Evans was going to be after ‘73.
Cecil34
As a fan watching the Braves back then I agree completely. 1973 - the year of the big (Evans, Johnson and Aaron)3 hitting over 40 homeruns each.
Chipper is truly a great player.
By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)
June 6, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this
Agreed on the fact that Chipper is in high cotton and headed for the Hall of Fame.
McCann made Saltalamacchia tradable and heap is going to make the All-Star team for the third straight year, there is no need to say anything else.
As far as bringing Greg Maddux back, I would do it in a heartbeat.
By BamaBrave
June 6, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
Brian Jonestown Massacre is killer-effing-DILLER…
It wasn’t that long ago that the blog seemed to have a constant sprinkling of Chipper-bashers…belching out infantile Hooter’s references and ignorant assertions of laziness and/or indifference. I can’t tell you how happy I am that Chipper’s play has shut most of them up.
By Shaun
June 6, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
I suspect that that 73-game stretch has a lot to do with the fact that Smoltz was the closer and was coming in when the Braves had the lead, for the most part. Still, he was dominant and DOB is absolutely correct that Smoltz may have had the most dominant 3-plus-year stretch of any relief pitcher in baseball history.
By Michael Scharff
June 6, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
DOB, I’d be really interested to see what Chipper’s stats were during the time period several years ago when in a space of about six weeks or so, he virtually dismantled the Mets by himself on the way to the Braves winning a Division title.
By flange1
June 6, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
I agree with your 3:34.
It would be nice to pay over slot from time to time as well..
By Lawrence
June 6, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
I think Chipper will need 500 to be a first ballot pick.And he should hit #500 sometime during the 2011 season.
By ChampDawg
June 6, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
Booby Cox is full of idiotic decisions in the batting order…. Andruw in 4th last year, Kelley Johnson in leadoff this year, McCann in 6th this year, Greg Norton this year……… :-(
By McFann
June 6, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this
OK, now that I got that other post finished, I cann respond to DOB’s EXCELLENT points he made in his blog:
I don’t think he’ll ever quite mach that 2006 season, either, but I do think he’ll almost always hit close to .300 (as long as he’s healthy). Yeah, he’s been overshadowed a bit, but that’s the way it’s been for a lot of his career. And he sure doesn’t mind…
Love those numbers you posted from 2006! Never will tire of seeing any of his stats from that year. Did anybody know he only went 0 fer _ 23 times that year? (That’s not counting games in which he had only one AB.) He’s already gone 0 fer _ 16 times this year. I’m workin’ on 2007 right now.
Yeah, it’ll be int’resting to see how he holds up through the summer…as long as he holds up well. There’s always that sinking feeling that comes with each scorching day and each play at the plate.
By faninFaytown
June 6, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
from the previous blog, totall agree on the Some Kind Of Monster documentary, sends chills down my spine watching those guys take the different parts and transform them into the finished product
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
John (Atlanta): Can I hear your opinion on the Braves draft before you pumpkin out of here?
Keith Law: (3:29 PM ET ) Started with three interesting HS arms, typical for them. Lot of athleticism in their draft, as usual. And, not that this means anything, a ton of JC kids. Decent haul considering they gave up their first pick for a below-average major league starter who’s averaging about 5.5 innings a start.
John (Atlanta): I’m comfortable with Atlanta losing their 1st round pick because a) the crop was a little thinner this year, and b) they snagged Julio Teheren earlier. Am I delusional?
Keith Law: (3:33 PM ET ) Could have waited three weeks and gotten Glavine and kept the pick.
By DAP
June 6, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
shaun I suspect that that 73-game stretch has a lot to do with the fact that Smoltz was the closer and was coming in when the Braves had the lead, for the most part.
im glad you decoded that for us. :-)
By McFann
June 6, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
Oh yeah! And he’s going to his third straight All-Star Game…even if it is as Soto’s backup.
ChampDawg—
Whatever. He doesn’t play “out of position.”
Drew—
Thanks. 8 )
By Jeff321
June 6, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
‘Big three’ focus of TWIB Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine sit down for intimate interview
http://tinyurl.com/3kc5sx
By ChampDawg
June 6, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
Chipper has been a much better and more productive player ever since Smoltz called him out last year and told him to man-up about the injuries and also since Tex has been added to bat behind him.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
Flange1
If and when Tex signs with the Yanks, we’ll get their #1 and probably the top compensation pick. Along with ours, that makes 3 of the top 35 picks next year. It would be nice to go above slot next year.
By ChampDawg
June 6, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
McFann— You don’t know much. Yes, he does.
By Cecil34
June 6, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
Lee in S GA
Remember that season so well. We had so many players hitting a ton of homers but besides Knucksie and Carl Morton, just no pitching at all….
And still finished below .500. I think 74 and 88 was the record.
And then in ‘74 we turned it around and went 88-74 with the emergence of Buzz Capra. Remember him?
Went 16-8 and low 2 ERA - one year wonder. Got him from the Mess.
Then arm problems and poof!
The ‘73 and ‘74 teams were not bad teams, but in a division with the Dodgers and Reds, not much hope really.
By NS at Kennesaw
June 6, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
I like McCann, he is very consistent on offense. His defense is very strong in the way he is calling pitches. For his arm, knowing he knows and he is working on it and that he threw out a couple of guys already, I have to admire him for that.
I also like Francoeur and hope that he breaks out of his bad habbit soon. He has way too many one-pitch-out or strike out when bases are loaded. I heard he is working on it too - so I hope he will come through soon.
One thing I notice in most games this year that the Bravo win, regardless of being at home or on the road, when our guys are more patient and work up the pitches - we increase our chances by a huge margin.
Yesterday J3 looked tired, I mean from the get go. not sure what was the reason. But certainly, he experienced the way to protect the lead when he did not have his usual stuff.
GO BRAVES !!!
NOTE: (1) What’s happening on AJC Brave page? Lots of white spaces and very slow to load.
(2) Listened to radio broadcast the other day, can someone tell Skip, with all due respects, please don’t talk while having something in his mouth. It’s very annoying.
By Novice Ned
June 6, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this
Let’s face it, McCann continues to be overshawdowed by this crazy love affair with Frenchy. Meanwhile, in 3 years, Frenchy may very well be the 3rd or 4th best position player on this team. Behind McCann, Escobar, one of the other outfielders (steroid Schafer?) and whomever is playing 1B (Heywood?). He is SOOO ridiculously overrated that he completely overshadows the fact that McCann is far and away the best young Brave to join this club in the past 5 years. It’s not even close. (And Escobar has already surpassed the free swinger as well).
By Paul Hamilton
June 6, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
DOB,
I have a question for you. It may have already been answered on here, and I missed it, but go ahead and humor me.
A couple weeks ago I read an article on ESPN.com that talked about major league clubs signing their top young talent to big contracts early so that they don’t test the free agent market at all. In the article they listed a bunch of young talent that teams had either been reluctant to sign or couldn’t come to terms with them. One of them was Jeff Francoeur (sp?) and the article stated that he had turned down offers the past two years that were similar in years and money to the contract Brian Mccann signed. Is this true? I just can’t imagine he passed up that type of offer while he clearly is nowhere near as accomplished a hitter as Mccann. He better pick up his numbers!
By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy
June 6, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
DOB, you still haven’t picked up that cd (two albums combined) from my namesake that I’ve been recommending to you for 3 years now, have you?
David Allan Coe - LongHaired Redneck/Rides Again.
Willie, Waylon, and Me is one of the worst songs on that c.d., and that’s not a knock on the song. It’s just a testament as to how freaking awesome the rest of the tracks are.
By oilburner
June 6, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
I wonder,if all you knowledgeable fans would offer your thoughts on an alltime Atlanta Braves(excluding pitching)team,by position?
By Kentavo
June 6, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
Best Rock n’ Roll movie of alltime is “`The Kids are Alright”
By snowball's chance
June 6, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
Spinal Tap is the best band movie. It is a farce but anyone that’s been in a band can tell you that life in a band usually is a farce.
You play sports and you play music. Are any other endeavors described that way? Why is it that athletes and musicians seem to take themselves much more seriously than the average person? They have to lead the general populace in talking about themselves in the third person. If they are playing why do so few have fun while they are doing it?
By Pete H.
June 6, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
I agree on Dig, DOB. It’s an awesome movie. If you REALLY want to see some bickering, watch End of the Century, the Ramones bio. Near the end, when Johnny refuses to go see Joey, who is dying in the hospital, it’s pretty telling. I used to hang around with them a bit in the early days, and they were always pretty unfriendly, but it really got out of hand when Johnny, the right-winger, stole Joey’s girlfriend, causing Joey to write The KKK Took My Baby away and force Johnny to play it every show from then on.
It went from bickering to vendetta.
And Nate, picking as low as we did, there weren’t a lot of college arms of any value hanging around. We picked a great year not to have a first-round pick. The talent, given what teams will have to pay for first-rounders, was the thinnest in years. Three or four teams are going to pay top dollar for college arms that project as set-up men at best.
It’s true that high school pitchers are a crapshoot, and you gotta be crazy to draft them in the top 10, but that was really all that was available at 40 and lower.
The guys we got have roughly the same chance of becoming impact players as any of the pitchers taken higher, IMO.
By LA Brave
June 6, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
Chipper is first ballot. 3B is the rarest position in the Hall. Chipper’s career OPS+ is 145 (crude, but I’m in a hurry). Also, Chipper’s OPS+ has been rising over the 2005-08 stretch.
Schmidt is the only 3B in the HOF with a higher OPS+, at 147. (Matthews and Killebrew are both at 143).
By McFann
June 6, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
NS in Kennesaw—
He calls a great game! And yes, he knows very well about his defensive struggles, and wants badly to get better. I have to go along with your last sentence!
He’s made a lot of accurate throws that were just too late, but our pitchers could also do a better job at holding the runners.
By Random
June 6, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Capt Caveman: “To clarify that, the batter may switch sides up until he has 2 strikes on him, at that point he must stay on the same side of the plate as when the 2nd strike was called.”
Nope — that is a myth.
The batter can change batter’s boxes after every pitch, regardless of the count.
My source?
[Rich Marazzi](http://www.ruleball.com/], MLB rules consultant for Yankees, Red Sox and Astros.
I’m sure you would have known that, had you ever played above the level of Little League.
Well, at least you’re not an umpire or nothing, where your egregiously incorrect rule interpretations might have an impact on impressionable kids.
;-)
(Just joking — a little good-natured joshing.)
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
Novice Ned
While I don’t disagree that Frenchy is overrated, he still has time to become what many scouts thought he could become.
By Gang Greene
June 6, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
Look, Chipper is a HOF, plain and simple. We are all biased, but the guy belongs in the hall. I know this comes up all the time, but first time balloter vs 7th time balloter is often nothing more than perception. Face of the franchise (offensively at least)that won 14 straight. My whole thing is his perception suffered because he appears to have played it clean and straight for his career, so he got overshadowed by only poppoing 30 homers a year when all the false heroes were killing the record book. If there is any justice, when the voters look back at this era, they will keep that in mind and move him in
By McFann
June 6, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
Novice Ned—
I agree with every word you said regarding the strange love affair with Francoeur. He is ridiculously overrated.
But heck, I’d rather McCann be an overshadowed great then always be in the spotlight. Might sound strange, but that’s the way I feel.
There’s a waiting line for the computer, so I gotta go! Be back later!
By Jay Stiltner
June 6, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
Here’s a well deserved congratulations to Chipper Jones! Keep it up. Obviously, Jones is one of the most patient, prodigious and smartest hitters in the game today.
There’s no question that Jones will be a first ballot Hall of Famer. It’s great to see the fans recognizing and appreciating what Jones is accomplishing this season. He deserves to start to all-star game this year at third base.
If he can keep up this torrid pace, it would be impossible NOT to give him the MVP award this season, regardless of how well Chase Utley and Lance Berkman are performing.
On another note, it’s an extreme bummer that John Smoltz is done for the season. We, as Braves Nation, all hope he can make a comeback in 2009. If anyone can do it, Smoltz would be that man.
His dedication and competiveness to the art of pitching are simply unparalleled. It’s also good to hear that Smoltz is content - even if his career is truly over.
He has done so many great things for this city and the Braves’ franchise over the course of his career. His 15-4 record and 2.65 era in the postseason constitute one of the dopest records in the history of the game.
It would be great to see Smotlz, Maddux and Glavine enshrined in the Hall of Fame the same year, but it would be way cooler for Smoltzie to comeback and jump the latest hurdle to get back on the mound.
Let’s go Braves! Let’s show Philly how we do at the Ted this weekend!
By aefwb
June 6, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
The other reason why the Braves may not take too many college pitchers is that they are usually in the bottom of the first round. The best college guys are usually taken by then.
By FloridaBrave
June 6, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
Thanks for posting about our draft. We really stocked up on pitching, going along with out M.O. I also noticed we seem to have a little pipeline in Nevada- I saw we had some guys drafted from some smaller colleges there and I believe that’s where we found Rohrbough too(?).
I disagree with Law saying Glavine’s a below average starter but I am curious as to why we didn’t wait three weeks to sign Glavine?
By Steve McP
June 6, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this
DOB - don’t forget the Beatles “Let it Be” as a documentary about a band on the cusp of break-up, they were at the peak of their powers when the movie was made, but the tension between Lennon and McCartney is tangible, especially when Yoko Ono was around (which later led to joke “what is yellow and lives off of dead beatles”) - I also remember the movie for the almost total non-contribution of Ringo Starr.
By Chop Chop
June 6, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
When I look at Chipper’s gaudy numbers, I’m reminded of what used to tide me over as a young Braves fan: stats. I’d get my baseball cards and think about the numbers. I’d think about how good or bad the guys were that posted those numbers. I knew the Braves sucked, but they’d always put up some stats for me to look at when the baseball cards came out for the next season. I still have my baseball cards. I’m thinking right now about a 1990 Donruss Steve Avery “Rated Rookie” card. Avery looks like he’s eight years old on that thing. His numbers aren’t even that good, but I guess the folks at Donruss had a little Baseball Prospectus/Baseball America in them because they knew he had the potential to be something. I don’t know how many other people on this blog experienced the same kind of childhood baseball card fascination as me, but I’m sure a few of you did.
By Kentavo
June 6, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
IF you need any testament that McCann is the better player than Frenchy (who would be better if he realized his potential) look no further than who has been locked up long term and who hasn’t.
By R1U
June 6, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
What I like about McCann is that he doesn’t duck when the pitcher throws!!!
Also, so many projections!!! We have to win one game, one series at a time!!!
Do that the stats will speak for themselves.
By StingerSplash
June 6, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Wow. First time I was first and didn’t think I was first. I’m better than I thought I was. Maybe I otta change my name to Joe Morgan. Or Jim Leyritz.
By StingerSplash
June 6, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
Does anyone else think that batter in the AJC’s online BP simulator look like a right-handed Chipper? Of course, I’m swinging and missing like Rob Deer.
By Random
June 6, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
monty: “Jurjens hit a soft liner to Uggla to end the inning.”
Well, like you said, you were there (and I wasn’t), but on the television, it looked like Jurrjens pounded that line drive, really ripped it, and Uggla had to leap with a full extension to just barely snare it.
It didn’t look at all soft to me, but I guess the camera may add a few “pounds”.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
FloridaBrave
Yeah, I have no idea why we didn’t wait on Glavine, maybe DOB can clear that up, although I know he has already wrote about it. I don’t think he was going to sign with the Mets. Oh well.
I disagree with the notion that it is okay that we lost our first round pick for Glavine. It isn’t okay to lose a first round pick. The guy who posted that brought up signing Teheran, which maybe off-sets the loss of the first round pick? No. Makes no sense. You can never have too many prospects. Look at the new Evil Empire(Red Sox Nation).
By KUchamps08
June 6, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
The more Chip keeps raking, the more and more I wish we would get a deal done for Tex, that’s great protection for Chip and he’s still going to get walks and then Tex can knock him in, plus Tex is a stud with the glove. Let’s dominate this weekend
By TURTSNAP
June 6, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
DOB - Just read your series preview with the Phillies and glad I did. When I first saw Moyer was going tonight, I thought “Oh crap, he’s one of those slow pitchers that the Braves seem to have trouble with”. But I see the Braves have faired rather nicely against him. Here’s hoping Huddy has a good one.
I like alot of others thought that between the two Frenchy would be the better of the two between he and McCann, but McCann has quickly moved into the top 4 of my current favorite Braves (Smoltz, Chipper, McCann and YUNEL!!)
By DonCoburleone
June 6, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
Chipper Jones is friggin’ awesome. IMHO, any player with a career batting average above .300, OBP above .400, an MVP Award, a World Series ring, a (probable) batting title, 400+ homers and 1,400+ RBI should be in the hall of fame for sure… Maybe not first ballot (he’ll get that if he plays another 5 years though), but definately a hall of famer in my book.
By Supes
June 6, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
Chipper Jones goes in on the first ballot. No question. Peter “red sox lover” Gammonds said so, and so did the man I respect the most on the ESPN baseball tonight show…Tim Kurktchin.
When Chipper is done, and he retires, people will truly appreciate it then. I think many of us take it for granted these days, we expect Chipper to lead our team, hit .300, hit 25+HR, drive in 100 and score 100 every year, while being a commanding presence in the middle of the order.
I have never bought any braves players Jersey before, but I did buy a Chipper Jones last year b/c I started to realize how special of a player he will be for the Atlanta Braves organization, the southeast, and baseball in general.
An above average defensive player, one of the best pure hitters in the game = HOF on the first ballot.
John Kincade on 680theFan said it best…the thing he admires the most about Chipper Jones is the 3 years in LF, when he put the TEAM first, and moved over so Vinny Castilla could play 3B and help the TEAM, getting both their bats in the lineup at those positions. That’s when he started acquiring some injuries and his production went down a bit. He did it anyways, didn’t gripe, didn’t demand someone else move over, etc. It showed you all you need to know about Chipper Jones.
If someone tells Chipper this season…you will hit .400, win the NL MVP, but the Braves will miss the playoffs, or you can trade it all in for one more WS championship in 2008…I know which one Chipper Jones will chose! The team championship!
One last thing…in this era when guys bulked up and cheapened HR numbers, nobody has ever doubted or implicated Chipper Jones…b/c he’s a natural talent and can hit for power anyways. That alone will weight in heavily on the hall of fame voters.
You heard it here now…Braves sweep the Phillies this weekend. Everything is set up. They miss their 2 best starters, and they’ve got Monday off…meaning everyone is in play this weekend from the pen for more than usual if needed, and I have a feeling they will be needed!
Chipper Jones vs. Chase Utley begins tonight at the Ted.
By Horner's Corner
June 6, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this
I think Chipper is a 1st ballot HOFer right now. The steroid era distorted homerun milestones and I don’t believe 500 are essential to make it on the first try. In addition, I’m tired of all the discussion of Chipper’s injury problems over the last few years. He was a model of consistency for 10 years and then he reached his 30’s. That’s what happens to guys that don’t juice, they breakdown as they get older. It’s almost a double standard in which you can’t use performance enhancing substances (not that I’m advocated their use) but you get chastised for suffering injuries later in your career. I’m rambling because he’s my favorite player and for some dumbass reason I feel the need to defend him. Are the Braves going to boost their lineup any for the interleague games? How about calling up Barbaro Canizares?? He may not be the answer, but we sure could use some additional punch against the AL.
By DonCoburleone
June 6, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
And about this series, I really feel like we SHOULD sweep this thing… We don’t have to face Hamels or Myers and we have been dominant at home this year. We get the dinosaur tonight (who I think is actually the best starter we’ll face in this series), then Kendrick and Eaton… Two average-at-best righties who are exactly the kind of pitchers the Braves have been feasting on this year. I say tonights game is a low scoring one, but tomorrow and Sunday I’m predicting slugfests; and a Braves sweep!
By Bravosimos
June 6, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
DOB Great post as always, you’re one of the best, but please, for my sake, don’t mention Chipper and the DL. It’s like saying, “Do you realize how long it’s been since an American Embassy has been attacked?” The only difference is Chipper might not go on the DL again, we can only hope; but it definately need not be talked about.
By MGL
June 6, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
NS at Kennesaw - Take it easy on Skip. The poor man has major health issues. We are lucky he’s there. I think he’s been around long enough that he doesn’t need to be told not to talk and eat at the same time.
By wendy miller
June 6, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
is this the chipper jones fanzine?
what’s chipper’s favorite color?
what’s his favorite song?
does he like girls?
what color are his favorite pajamas?
when are they going to make a chipper jones movie? will chipper play himself or will they get justin timberlake? i can’t wait, i think i’m going to faint.
By wendy miller
June 6, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
is this the chipper jones fanzine?
what’s chipper’s favorite color?
what’s his favorite song?
does he like girls?
what color are his favorite pajamas?
when are they going to make a chipper jones movie? will chipper play himself or will they get justin timberlake? i can’t wait, i think i’m going to faint.
By ContactBuzz
June 6, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
“jointing Eddie Murray…”
I thought this blog was about Chipper, not Knowshon
By MGL
June 6, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
Dob - Thanks for the new blog. Great numbers!!
To Shaun et al - Regarding the last blog discussion on Winn vs Giles. While Winn is a switch and Giles bats lefty. Either one of them handle LHP and RHP well. I wouldn’t mind seeing either of them.
By Fred
June 6, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
How about calling up Barbaro Canizares??
Unfortunately, Barbaro was put to sleep after breaking his leg tryig to steal second base.
By FloridaBrave
June 6, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this
Fred,
Post of the day at 5:05. That was hysterical.
By pfunkatl2
June 6, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
Be at the game tonite guys 109L row 25 seat 101…behind first base if anyone wants to say HEY…of COURSE I will prolly be in the chop House til dark…lol.
By Shamus Thacker
June 6, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
I think Large Charles Kerfeld was the greatest Brave ever.
By Shamus Thacker
June 6, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this
Sorry, meant to say greatest Brave eater…
By dgd
June 6, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this
I agree with all the praise for McCann. He seems like a good guy and a terrific hitter for someone who’s, er, quite chubby. But, he’s going to have to do something about his weight if he expects to hold up as a catcher for the long term….It was very disappointing to see him show up at spring training so fat.
By Mr. Optimistic
June 6, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
just saw an inside report that the braves are looking at bringing back kevin millwood. DOB how does that move look. maybe a change of scenary would help. or what about these options . José Contreras, or Zack Greinke from kansas city. we have a good relationship with their GM obviously whatt do you think. and to me it just seems that this team is playing through the motions on the road. no energy no nothing. but i say this this team reminds me of the old days a lil because as u can see some of the teams in the past. like in 2004 the big come from behind win against balitmore or in 2005 against cincinnati with the baby braves affect. this road trip could be that spark. they usually play well at wrigley probably no hilliday in colorado and we get a bad john garland in LA with no Lackey. Granted we get 2 hot pitchers in Saunders and E. Santana but come on with this offense we should get to one of them. all in all i think this road trip will tell us alot about this team. i just dont see a team that scores enough runs and has give up the the least amount of runs can make the playoffs. as u can see arizona is to young the mutts are old as shea stadium the phils are tough but are very streaky especailly with their starters and the billy goat will soon find its way back to wrigley. i cant think of one team that has seen soo many injuries and still be right there. thank god for stans rodeo cream or we really would have a mess on our hands. any word on kotsay how is the back???? thank you
By McFann
June 6, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this
McFann— You don’t know much. ChampDawg
Gee, thanks! I appreciate it.
But uh, other than that play against Cincy, name me a few more times where he played “out of position”.
Take your time. Oh, and year doesn’t matter.
By Chuck T
June 6, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
I’ll second DOB’s recommendation of Dig. It’s just a crazy movie about two very talented bands. Also, if you get a chance to see The Swell Season in concert (featuring Glenn Hansard from Once and the Commitments, I can’t recommend it enough). Great concert!
Now to talk a little baseball: I’d definitely amazed by the season McCann is having but I am wondering if he’ll get squeezed out of th All-Stars because of tight competition at catcher, especially with Soto likely winning the popular vote and with the Giants and Dodgers, who both have solid catchers (Russell and Molina) having few All-Star candidates.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 6, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this
mr optimistic
What “inside” report??
Where was this said??
I think your confused or making it up.
By keylargo
June 6, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this
I agree with all the McCann’s Fanns out there. He has truly been more than anyone could have expected.
He has one area though that he is going to have to get control of to reach his potential. He is going to have to get his weight and conditioning under control. It’s never going to be easier for him than now. He needs desperately to get a personal trainer and nutrionist to work with him this off season. Absolutely nothing like Francoeur, but if he could maintain his weight and reduce his body fat about 10% he could be better longer.
He needs to face the facts that catching is very demanding position and that by carrying that extra weight he is shortening his career and productivity.
By KC
June 6, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
DonCoburleone:
I certainly hope you’re right!!! I’m reluctant to predict a sweep though, despite missing Hamels and Myers in this series.
The last time I felt GREAT about pitching matchups heading into a series was that last trip to Shay stadium… and that one didn’t turn out so well. So I’m keeping my optimism on the down-low, and knocking on wood!
Could very well happen though. That would be sweet as it would pull us within a 1/2 game of Phili, and tie them in the loss column.
I’m comfortable expecting a series win, at the very least.
We need to win this series and take some momentum out on a tough road that will start with 6 games against the Cubs and Angels.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 6, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
keylargo
you have no idea what you are talking about. You need to learn a lot more about a person’s health before you start throwing out details like body fat and length of career. The man isn’t even 25 yet. Get a grip.
By JimD
June 6, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this
Capt., I believe Mr Optimistic has been reading - or actually MIS-reading Jason Stark. Here is what Stark wrote about the Braves in his latest column:
• BRAVE NEW WORLD: We’ve all heard the talk about Greg Maddux going back to Atlanta. But how about Kevin Millwood?
Our Rumblings espionage agents report that the Braves have taken a hard look at Millwood, if only because they know him well and because he wouldn’t be a rent-a-starter.
But in reality, unless Texas is desperate to unload Millwood, there’s as much chance of Steve Avery rejoining the Braves’ rotation as there is of a Millwood comeback. He has $23 million coming in 2009 and 2010. And the Braves, as we reported last week, are interested in younger arms they can control for as long as possible. So Millwood wouldn’t qualify on either front.
By McFann
June 6, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this
Chuck T—
McCann’s still in second place in the voting. I don’t know if he cann catch up to Soto at this point, but he’ll make it as a backup if we Braves’ fans have anything to do with it!
By Scott Coe
June 6, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this
Nice song by David A. Coe (met him before and enjoyed talking with him). Good points about Chipper and McCann. I’m a little worried about the current outfield situation, especially with the injuries.
By keylargo
June 6, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
Caveman
I know plenty about condioning and I can recognize when someone has too much body fat to the point where it affects his running.
I don’t tell too many people that they are wrong, but you are. If you can not see that Brian McCann could use some conditioning and nutrition help then you will never recognize it.
By DonCoburleone
June 6, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this
KC you just made me remember that after this series we are AT Chicago and AT the Angels; thats pretty f’ing brutal. With the way this team has been playing on the road all year, that could turn out to be a 1-5 or 0-6 disaster. So that makes this series against Philly even more important…
WAR U Kno Who going yard again tonight and leading the Braves to victory!
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 6, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this
Jim D
Thanks, like I said, if he had read the article then he knows that it’s not going to happen.
Why do you bloggers post stuff that is so blatantly off the mark. That’s the problem around here, a bunch of made-up “inside” stuff that’s just completely off base.
By jord in idaho
June 6, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this
DOB you idiot. chip hasnt been on the dl yet, and if he gets hurt and goes on the dl its all you fault cause you jinks him! keep that hush hush we dont need to jinks him
By Lew
June 6, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
KeyLargo-Did you not read on the blog throughout the winter that McCann had trained for strength and flexibility and then took Yoga for even more flexiblilty? I think the results have shown in the considerable defensive improvement he’s made. Not getting all those passed balls anymore, is he?
Y’all are making way too much of his weight. His knees and his feet are going to have problems because he’s a catcher. It’s all part of playing the position. As for being a bit more bulky, you sure wouldn’t want a skinny little dude like Hudson behind the plate. A strong wind, much less a 230 pound runner going all out to score would put him into the stands if he didn’t have some weight to anchor him.
Let’s get real here. McCann sure as hell is NOT Bob Wickman, Dmitri Young or David Wells. His weight sure has not kept him from hitting over .300 for the better part of his career, nor has it kept his fellow players from voting him a perennial All Star. He will never be fleet of foot even were he to lost 30 or 40 pounds.
By KC
June 6, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
Unless the Braves are convinced that Millwood’s stuff is still as good as ever, and are equally convinced they can help him improve his performance… pursuing Millwood makes no sense.
I have an especially hard time believing reports that the Braves would prefer to have Millwood back, as opposed to Maddux!
Frank Wren made it clear that they have no intention of trading for a mediocre starter. He has stated that if they acquire anyone, it will be because that pitcher is an upgrade on what they currently have.
Would Millwood be an upgrade on anyone in the Braves rotation right now?
Here’s a brief comparison between Maddux and Millwood…
This year:
Maddux: 3.48 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 6 innings per start avg.
Millwood: 4.65 ERA, 1.68 WHIP, 5.5 innings per start avg.
Maddux’s ERA over the past 2 full seasons: 4.19
Millwood’s ERA over the past 2 full seasons: 4.81
By BosnianBaller
June 6, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this
How can Rivera be the best closer of all time when he blew game 7 of the world series in 2001.He is one of the best of all time,but the best no way.the best get it done in those situations.I bet Smoltz would of been the greatest closer of all time if he was a closer his whole career.Maybe the braves would have more than 1 championship if that was the case,but thats up for debate.
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this
Just got up from clubhouse and field. Talked to the Braves’ top draft pick, high school lefty Brett DeVall. Seemed like a smart kid, and not gawky or skinny like so many other tall kids that age. Threw 88-91 with his fastball as a starter, got it up to 93 as a reliever.
He’s standing behind the batting cage and Chipper comes out after taking BP and goes up and introduces himself to the kid. Made the dude’s day.
He went to his high school graduation three hours after being drafted by the Braves yesterday. Then he’s at Turner Field today meeting Braves players. Quite a whirlwind, eh?
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this
Hey Wendy, tell you what: Come back when Chipper’s not hitting .418 with power at age 36, or doing stuff like hitting his 400th homer, and we’ll have plenty of other topics discussed here.
While he’s hitting 30-some points better than the next-best in baseball, and leading the team in homers, we’re probably going to write about him pretty much every day.
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
Infante’s in the lineup in LF, batting seventh. Blanco’s in center, batting eighth….
Bobby said Norton’s injury not serious, MRI was good, he’ll be ready to play in day or two, might even pinch-hit tonight.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 6, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this
Keylargo
No - Im not. I figured that you were probably some fitness guy or wannabe personal trainer. I’m saying that catchers are a different type of athlete and have different stress put on their body’s. I know - I was one. I worked out 5 days a week for 10 yrs after the age of 28. But at this point in his career I think that he is fine and of course we all could lose some weight, but catcher’s lose weight all season long between the heat and the equipment. You can lose as much as 6-9 pds during a really hot game or a doubleheader, that’s why you don’t see a lot of catchers-beside Biggio- under 220. You got to have some body mass, and all catchers run slow, that’s why it’s called catcher’s speed.
Of course, I guess in Key Largo you know what’s best for everyone else, right?
By McFann
June 6, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this
Y’all are making way too much of his weight.
Fully agreed with that, and everything else you said.
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this
No shocker here: RESOP cleared waivers and was outrighted to Richmond.
BosnianBaller, are you referring to someone else proclaiming Rivera the greatest closer of all time, or Smoltz having that title? Because I sure didn’t.
Read closely, here’s what I wrote:
“Say what you will about Mariano Rivera as great closer of this generation, because Rivera’s postseason accomplishments have assured him of that distinction. And Trevor Hoffman’s longevity puts him in that discussion of greatest closers of our generation, too.
“But for those three-plus seasons that Smoltz filled that role for the Braves, I’d have to say he was the best, most dominant closer in the game.”
By KC
June 6, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this
DonCoburleone:
Well, maybe I’m deluded… but I really, truly do expect the Braves to shake this road issue they’ve got. They’re play at home has shown us what they’ve capable of, and I think they’re too good of a team to keep this road nonsense up.
It’s Glavine, Jurrjens, Hudson for the Cubs series… that’s the good news.
The bad news is that both Zambrano and Dempster will likely pitch for the cubs in that series. Other bad news… Glavine has not fared well at Wrigley Field in his career.
But hey… what better way to kick off a road trip than to take 2 of 3 from the Cubs in the windy city!! Here’s hoping!
By Shamus Thacker
June 6, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this
DOB, looks like you’re gonna be answering denizen questions till the wee ahrs. [FYI novice hillbillies and pure-bred Yankees, that’s “hours”]
SO, I won’t ask the question that mesmerizes tens and tens of people, both near and nearer. BUT, when there’s a slow day at the ole blog, I’ll go ahead and ask. Hell, I think it just slowed here a little. You may have time for just one more. OK, here goes!
Hows about Hammy?
By Wendy Miller
June 6, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this
While he’s hitting 30-some points better than the next-best in baseball, and leading the team in homers and RBIs
mr. o’brien - i just looked it up and guess what? Tex is leading the braves with 43 rbis to chipper’s 39.
i wish this was tex’s fazine. he is a lot cuter than chipper.
By Shamus Thacker
June 6, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this
That’s killer DOB!
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
How cool is this: Jimy Williams (now a Phils coach) is walking through the arriving crowd, handing out baseballs to little kids and shaking people’s hands.
Just walking through the aisles in the seats behind home plate and behind the Phils’ dugout, handing out baseballs while the Phillies are taking BP.
By McFann
June 6, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
and all catchers run slow, that’s why it’s called catcher’s speed. Capt. Caveman
Yeah. And McCann was “speed challenged” back when he was still a kid playing second base for a travel team. That’s why he became a catcher—well, that plus the fact that Callix Crabbe stole his job (LOL). But like McCann said, “I didn’t get to a lot of balls…”
Is this helping his case, or no? Anyway, good points, Capt.
And I didn’t know you were a catcher. Did you ever go MLB?
By Fred
June 6, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this
Jimmy Williams… is walking through the arriving crowd, handing out baseballs to little kids
They really wanted Chipper’s autograph but Mr. Jimmy told them they can’t always get what they want so they got baseballs instead.
By ppaddy123
June 6, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this
dob, I know mcCann is an all star catcher, but, what are the chances the braves move him to 1st base after this season? It would keep him healthy and keep his bat in the line up everyday. I really don’t think Tex will be back.
By Greg in TN
June 6, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this
Evening folks…
Belated congratulations to U Kno Who for belting round-tripper number 400, which is quite appropriate that he reaches the 400 level at the same time his BA is north of that lofty line. Getting a win at the same time is even better, and against the division rival Fins, well that’s a pretty nice trifecta.
Less than an hour away from another opportunity to gain ground on the teams ahead of us with Jaime Moyer and the Phils in town to wind up the homestand.
By Salt Lake Brave
June 6, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this
Wendy stop being a b***. Most of us on this blog love Chipper and have since day one as a Brave.
By Fred
June 6, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this
Chipper is leading (the Braves) in all the established metrics but Tex is ahead in the popular vote.
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this
Wendy, good for you. You’ve actually added something of substance to the blog (the RBI total).
By KC
June 6, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this
Boy, I need to lay off the cough syrup. Lots o typs… I mean typos today!
I’m going to make a bold prediction here…
Greg Maddux will be a Brave this season.
I’ve thought for weeks that there was a very good chance, but the more I look at it, the more I have begun to consider a Maddux return likely.
I say this for the following reasons:
1 - The Braves want him. He’s a perfect fit for the remainder of this season. He’s still a quality starter. He’s a tested veteran who is certainly comfortable in a pennant race. And at 6 innings per start (by today’s standards), he’s not a burden on the bullpen.
2 - The Padres will likely be perfectly willing to part with him. The Pads certainly aren’t going anywhere this year, so they have little need for a 42 year-old starter with an expiring contract.
3 - Maddux’s no-trade clause will help get it done. Because of his no-trade clause, Maddux can decide if or where he wants to go. He has expressed a desire to pitch close to his Las Vegas home, but would likely make an exception to return to Atlanta for a post-season run.
In all likelihood, Maddux would only accept a trade to Atlanta, LA, or Arizona. Looking more closely at the Dodger’s and D-Back’s rotation today, I’ve come to the conclusion that neither of those teams are likely to have serious interest in Maddux.
The D-Back’s starting staff is set, 1-5… and the Dodgers are expecting Jason Schmidt back soon to fill out their rotation.
This all points to Atlanta being the most likely trade destination for Greg Maddux.
By Jeff321
June 6, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this
Infante, eh? Wouldn’t an even minded manager want to give his team the best chance to win? Isn’t starting players out of position a desperation move or something done when playing The Mariners? Because last time I checked, The Phillies are no joke and every game counts. Too bad our manager is the equivalent of short order cook in the weeds.
By Chop Chop
June 6, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this
DOB,
That’s pretty cool of Jimy to do. It would be even cooler if he were placing and taking bets on the outcome of the game. I know it would be against MLB rules, but it would still be cool.
(Oh…and if you get the chance, go down after the game and ask Jimy what he thinks about Carl Everett.)
By BosnianBaller
June 6, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
No DOB I wasn’t saying you said Rivera is the best.It’s just that whenever I turn on my TV I always hear people calling Rivera the best of all time and I just can’t do that because he blew game7 of the world series in 2001.I think it has something to do with Rivera pitching in New York and that the media(ESPN and others)hold him so much higher than any other pitcher and I think thats wrong.I would take Smoltz or Gagne over that 3 year period.
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this
Fred, are you and Wendy the same person, or just sharing an IP address? Certainly must be two of you, to produce that much smarmy wisdom from one computer.
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this
Shamus, glad you asked about HAMPTON: He threw off mound yesterday for second time, did two sets of 20 throws, all fastballs.
Will throw again this weekend off mound, and mix in his other pitches. No timetable for next step beyond that.
By Will
June 6, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this
Did it need to mentioned that Chipper has been off the DL for about a year! That sounds to me like a jinx waiting to happen. Hope the Braves have a good weekend against the Phils. Not essential, but i think very important to take two out of three.
By cabravesfan
June 6, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this
Wendy- I too am a female fan who enjoys discussing certain…shall we say assets… of the boys- but not here- this is for fans who actually watch baseball for what happens on the field- If you are only interested in who is “cute” perhaps I can direct you to a more appropriate site: http://braveslove.blogspot.com/ Please stop complaining to those of us who care more about stats then looks
By Shaun
June 6, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this
An article on The Big Three.
By Dan in NJ
June 6, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
Anyone know what channel the game would be on other then PTV. on Dish Network. Maybe a phillie ch.?
Thanks in advance.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
Why do I have to watch the Phillies broadcast team? I guess because I am in CT. Still sucks. Go Braves.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this
Anyone know why Heyward is out of the lineup in Rome?
By Shamus Thacker
June 6, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
And he’s still alive!?
By Jeff321
June 6, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
According to Phillies.com, they come on Comcast SportsNet.. I think that channel is available in (at least) parts of NJ.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this
Everything was absolutely crushed during that inning. Hopefully Huddy can settle down or it will be a long night.
By chrisklob
June 6, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this
Efrim, I think he’s hurt. Rome was in Charleston last night. I went early to watch bp. He was the very last guy out of the clubhouse. In fact, the rest of the team was done with their pre-workout stretching before he came out. I asked the manager (Randy Ingle) if he was still with the team and he said that he was in the clubhouse “getting treatment”.
I stuck around for bp and have to say that Heyward didn’t look good. Didn’t hit the ball hard at all. No pop whatsoever. It appeared that he had a slight limp but I couldn’t really tell what might have been hurting. He had a pretty poor night at the plate too as he went 0-3 with 2 K’s.
By Robin
June 6, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
Tryin’ to remember how we beat this crafty lefty in Moyer, (as Chipper just gets on) … That’s probably how, with dunkers, bloops, and going the other way. Cool!
By DonCoburleone
June 6, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this
McCann is a lock for the All Star team guys; he has hands down the best statistical numbers of any catcher in baseball right now. Plus, he is actually a really well-known name and should get plenty of support from not just fans, but also players and coaches.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
Chrisklob
Thanks man. Hopefully it isn’t anything serious. It would be nice for him to avoid any injury so that his development isn’t stalled. The way he was going, would of probably been at Myrtle Beach by July 1.
By Will
June 6, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this
Hudson probably has a blister, its his turn.
By Will
June 6, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
Guys better start paying attention to how Chipper/Brian Mac batted against Moyer or this is gonna be a long night.
By Deputy Dawg
June 6, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
I couldn’t find the right Blog to vent so I’ll do it here. During the draft yesterday, I almost puked hearing over and over the lack of black players in MLB, and the effort being put forth to get more into the game.When the hell is someone going to have the gonads to say we need more whites in the NFL and the NBA.SO white boys make up the majority of professional baseball!! So what.
By chrisklob
June 6, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this
Efrim, hopefully nothing serious. I’d like to think they’d fast track him but he’s very young so they won’t rush him. He’s put up some pretty strong numbers so far. Good enough to be named to the Sallie League All Star game along with 1b Freddie Freeman.
By Del
June 6, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this
Time for Bobby to bench Frenchy the next time he doesn’t back up the CFer. That is either the second or third time this season he has failed to execute this fundamental play. What gives with him this year? His whole attitude seems to be one of indifferance. Maybe he should have stayed single.!Bobby did it with Dru, as did Philly mgr last night with Rollins.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this
Moyer is putting on a clinic.
ChrisKlob
Yea, they shouldn’t rush him, but at 18 years old he is ripping up the Sally League. Like I said, an injury would suck. Gorkys Hernandez had to miss a month of development time with the hammy injury.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this
Chipper is really good at baseball.
By mr baseball
June 6, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this
Sorry to throw water on McCann’s cans on the blog, but he is by no means a lock for the All-Star team. Benji Molina and the Cubs’ hotshot youngster Soto have comparable numbers, and Russell Martin might have to make the team as the Dodgers’ only representative if Saito isn’t selected.
Not saying BMac doesn’t deserve to make the team. He does, and he might get the nod as starter. But better players than him have been shafted in the selection process, including the team’s current 3B. Other than Chipper, there are no locks on this team, and it would not be a total shock if he’s the team’s only representative in Yankee Stadium.
McCann’s chances are probably better than 50-50, but he is no sure thing.
By A-ville Ranger
June 6, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
Good breakdown on Chipper’s position historically and what it mak take to get him into Cooperstown DOB.I’ve looked at a few historical measures and I’m like to add them to the conversation.The all time season record ba for a switch hitter was by Mickey Mantle in 1957 at .365.The all time nl record belongs to George Davis at .355,he set it WAY BACK in 1893…Wow, 115 years ago.Now the all time season ab record for a third baseman belongs to George Brett,it dates to 1980.The nl record for third basemen was set by John Mcgraw WAY BACK in 1899…a mire 109 years back.So any way you slice it this could be a season for the ages…..GOOD GOD AS I TYPE HE HITS A DOUBLE…UN-FING REAL.
By Saltywoody
June 6, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
Can someone send a telegram to the Braves and let them know that they’re facing Jamie Moyer?
Because, right now, I think they’re mistaking him for Mark Redman, or something, and are completely baffled.
By Braveheart
June 6, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
Chipper is unbelievable!
Now that Geoff Jenkins is no longer in Milwaukee, do people stop saying he looks like Brett Favre?
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
Frenchy has to come through here.
By BosnianBaller
June 6, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB did you get a championship ring with the Marlins when you covered them?
By Braveheart
June 6, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this
Chipper could go oh for his next 88 and still be batting .300
By Robin
June 6, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
Terrible ab Frenchy! Just terrible!
By Will
June 6, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
Good AB frenchy! How about dropping this joker in the batting order.
By KC
June 6, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
Is it just me, or has Frenchy turned into Andrew Jones lately?
By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)
June 6, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this
Another bases loaded choke. Another lefty handed the Braves their Arses in a paper sack. I don’t know whether to laugh or cry.
By Tomahawk Kris
June 6, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
Way to go Frenchy - anyone else getting sick of seeing Frenchy fail to come through. I just knew he wasn’t going to get it done there.
By Some Blogs Rip Off Seinfeld
June 6, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
Coach: *”So, when Tommy John had Tommy John surgery, did they just call it “surgery”?
By Will
June 6, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this
Mr Baseball, You are absolutely right. I really hope Mccann makes the all star team, but it is by no means a lock. I think Saito is definitely in at this point, You have a really good point about Russell Martin and Molina as well.
By FloridaBrave
June 6, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this
Jordan Schafer homered.
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this
BosnianBaller: That’s not how it works. At all. Ever.
The only people who get rings are folks who work FOR the team, who are paid BY the team. Among the media, that only includes team broadcasters.
By uga-brave
June 6, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this
braveheart,
check out frenchy’s day, night splits.
pretty skewed.
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this
Some Blogs: That’s funny.
Actually, no, when Tommy John had surgery, they called it Mike Hampton surgery. (drum roll, please)
By Jeff321
June 6, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this
Frenchy has turned into one big joke. Its time to put him on the bench. At this point I’d rather see Norton playing right field if that gives you any indication of my disdain.
By N8
June 6, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
Efrim
“Frenchy has to come through here”
Are you shocked that he didn’t?
Phillies got lucky that Chippers ball bounced out of play. KJ scores standing up on that play otherwise.
Or were the Braves unlucky? Either way.
DOB
Thanks for the info on “Dig”. I’ll definitely check it out.
I’ve got the Metallica on DVD. It is classic. Gotta love Lars’ dad. Looks like Uncle Jessie.
Glad to hear you’ve seen and enjoyed The Commitments. Surprisingly, that’s a show that flew under the radar for many. Doesn’t get the pub that Spinal Tap got. I had to watch the damn thing 3 or 4 times, before I caught all the humor. A) From laughing so hard, you miss things, and B) that Irish accent is a tough one to grasp, once they start yelling and all talking at once.
By McFann
June 6, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
Shee-wiz! Enough with the FC’s, already!
I missed it—Where’d McCann get hit?
By London Correspondent
June 6, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
Marvellous. Just marvellous. Tex walks to load the bases and mlb.com goes down. Is this what I pay my 100 bucks for? It’s 1:40am here, so I might as well go to bed.
By uga-brave
June 6, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
KC,
that is an insult to andruw’s body of work here.
francoeur will never ever approach the numbers that andruw put up here.
By Braveheart
June 6, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this
Got finished catching up on The Wire by watching the first 4 seasons on DVD. That has to be the best written, best acted show there ever was on television.
But watching The Wire and thinking about The Big Three, I got to thinking about what if The Big Three were drug dealers on the Wire.
Glavine would be Stringer Bell, too worried about the money and business side of things.
Smoltz would be Avon Barksdale, a warrior who always keeps his ear to the streets. Avon even got pinched and had to spend some time locked up in the hell that is prison like Smoltz has gotten pinched and been locked up in the hell that is the disabled list
Maddux would be Marlowe because he made his pitches mysteriously disappear like Marlowe made bodies mysteriously disappear.
Otis Nixon, of course, would be Bubbles
By Will
June 6, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
Gosh can somebody other then Chipper or Mac put together a good at bat!! Time to make a drink!
By ricflair
June 6, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
DOB I know Frenchy is young but you would think by now he would make some adjustments up there. He is in third full season and I do not see any improvement.
By BravesFanInRockies
June 6, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
Schafer keeps homerin’ and Blanco keeps strugglin’ and we may see Jordan up here soon.
By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)
June 6, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this
What Jamie Moyer is doing to the Braves tonight is using his twenty-two years of veteran savvy and experience to carve up the Braves.
Wouldn’t you like to see Greg Maddux back in a Braves uniform doing the same thing to the opposition.
By N8
June 6, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
Some Blogs Rip Off Seinfeld
“Coach: *”So, when Tommy John had Tommy John surgery, did they just call it “surgery”?”
Too funny. Reminds me of the Denis Leary stand-up where he’s impersonating a dead Babe Ruth talking about Lou Gehrig, saying “we used to tell Lou…..Lou, there’s a disease with your name ALL over it”.
Along the same line as your question, do what do Canadians call “Canadian Bacon”? Bacon? Or do they just call it ham?
By FloridaBrave
“Jordan Schafer homered.”
Unless he falls flat on his face, he’ll be making a Francoeur/McCann like journey to Atlanta later this summer.
Maybe if we’re lucky, he’ll REPLACE Frenchy’s worthless AB’s in the lineup.
Dude is LOST at the plate.
By E. "Buzz" Miller
June 6, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
Totally off topic here…..The Darrel Evans reference brought this to mind….but do any of you guys remember back in the mid 70’s when we used to pick up all of the Dodger’s cast-offs and minor leagers?…the “Toy Cannon” and Lee Lacey come to mind…also, Messersmith…mann, those were BAD DAYS!!!
By cabravesfan
June 6, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
McFann- Mac got hit in almost the exact same place he did the last time (the marlins?)
By Spider29
June 6, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
Efrim, I am in Florida and see the games on MLB Extra Innings. I’m watching the Phillies feed but listening to the Braves announcers on radio.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
N8
Of course the Braves were unlucky there. Haha. Well if we lose by one run…..that’ll be the reason, right?
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
anybody having trouble with MLB.TV streaming?
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
A man older than I am is throwing a two-hit shutout against the Bravos. Oh, my.
By dean wormer
June 6, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
braves outfield the worst in faber history,
no power, no speed, no defense is no way to go through a season.
congratulations frenchy, .250 you are at the head of the delta tau chi pledge class. blanco .260 no power suspect defense. mr norton has no batting average,
for good measure lets just drop corky or is it flounder into the mix, son fat, drunk, and a .050 batting is no way to go through a season.
By N8
June 6, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
Wrong spot of the ballpark for Escobar to drive that pitch from Moyer.
I saw an article the other day where Moyer was saying that in his opinion, having played with him, that Babe Ruth was a better pitcher than hitter.
By Jeff321
June 6, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
London Correspondent
I’m watching the Peachtree feed on MLB and haven’t experienced any problems.
By Some Blogs Rip Off Seinfeld
June 6, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
(Re-post to correct format and link, and to tighten the verbiage.)
Capt Caveman: “To clarify that, the batter may switch sides up until he has 2 strikes on him, at that point he must stay on the same side of the plate as when the 2nd strike was called.”
Nope — that is only a myth.
The batter can change batter’s boxes after every pitch, regardless of the count.
My source?
Rich Marazzi, MLB rules consultant for Yankees, Red Sox and Astros.
I’m sure you would have known that, had you ever ball played above the Little League level.
Good thing you’re not an umpire.
;-)
(Joking! — just a little good-natured joshing.)
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
If I am a lefty, I am throwing every pitch inside to Chipper. Just like Moyer did right there. This looks like one of those games.
By N8
June 6, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this
Efrim
“Of course the Braves were unlucky there. Haha. Well if we lose by one run…..that’ll be the reason, right?”
No. If we lose by run it’ll be Bobby’s fault. What are ya….ignorant?
DOB
Wow. Dude. You’re old.
By chopperhobby
June 6, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this
I agree with 8:38. Norton makes adjustments whereas Francouer has the same mentality no matter who the pitcher or what the situation. Frenchy is a pitcher’s delight.
By McFann
June 6, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
OK, the back again. Sheesh. Glad he didn’t pull a Coco Crisp! LOL…Like that would ever happen…
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
We are walking into NO MANS LAND, better score next inning, if not, game over.
By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)
June 6, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
Overlord, I have had to restart it twice already. MLB.TV is having problems tonight.
By uga-brave
June 6, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
N8,
when was he really ever found?
By BosnianBaller
June 6, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
Can anybody explain to me why lefthanded pitchers are called southpaws I have never understood that.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
Walking Victorino wasn’t a smart move.
By KC
June 6, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
This is ridiculous. Jamie moyer is a crafty veteran starter… but this is bulls**t. We have got to get something off this guy her in the next inning or two.
By Will
June 6, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
Dean Wormer, I think we should call Jeff Fran “flounder” instead of Corky. That is one of the first words that comes to mind when i watch Frenchy hit.
By TURTSNAP
June 6, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
Funny, coming into tonights game, opponents were batting .312 against Moyer. Braves making him look like Cy Young
By keylargo
June 6, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
BUZZ
Two Dodgers come to mind. Tom Paciorek? and Mike Marshall.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
Victorino was safe even on a pitch out……. what the heck. Thanks ump.
By Braveheart
June 6, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
George Brett had 449 at bats in 1980. For Chipper to hit .400 after 449 at bats, he would have to hit .382 over his next 233 at bats
Ted Williams had 456 at bats in 1941. For Chipper to hit .400 after 456 at bats, he would have to hit .383 over his next 240 at bats
Tony Gwynn had 419 at bats in 1994. For Chipper to hit .400 after 419 at bats, he would need to hit .379 for the next 203 at bats
As DOB pointed out above, Chipper has hit .378 over his last 566 at bats. He just might do it.
By McFann
June 6, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
NICE PLAY to end the inning! And nice tag by the former shortstop!
That’s CS #11 if you’re counting the two pick-offs our pitchers have made.
By Edward
June 6, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
Hey Atlanta Braves REMEMBER when you defeated TWICE A LHP named JOHAN SANTANA..THIS IS JAMIE MOYER…he is a LHP..DO the SAME FRIGGIN THING!!!!!!!!!!!!! Two HITS..Two hits through 5..are you f’n ME??…
By N8
June 6, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
uga
good queston.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
Frenchy bunting? No confidence folks. Zero.
and he pops out to short. They need Kotsay back in this lineup and Frenchy needs to be hitting no higher than 7th. McCann and Johnson can hit 5th and 6th(they can hit lefties too). I know that is a bit harsh and I am being kind of dramatic, but come on Jeff.
By Braveheart
June 6, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
Oh lord. Someone please make the Francoeur horror show stop.
By bravesfan
June 6, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
DOB, any news on Gonzalez?
By TJ
June 6, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
Yep, tough to win a championship with an outfield of Francouer, Blanco and Infante (and throw Norton and Josh Anderson into that mix). Ugh.
Getting Kotsay back would be huge against righties. Diaz, I guess, against lefties.
But I think we need to hoodwink Pittsburgh out of Jason Bay.
E. Buzz Miller, don’t forget Terry Forster and Mike Marshall. Actually, signing Messersmith as a free agent was a big deal in ‘76 - he was a great pitcher still in his prime. ‘Course it didn’t turn into anything.
By TennesseePaul
June 6, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
So, I get the impress this team goes into “big games” with “the big game” on its mind. Much like they go into road games with a “road game” on their mind. Shut out by Moyer… they gotta be over thinking…
By keylargo
June 6, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
McFann
He was “OUT” but you could not have blamed Howard if he reached out and grabbed McCann *as he ran past him
By Braveheart
June 6, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
BMAC!!!!!!!!
By cabravesfan
June 6, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
Mac just crushed that…
By Robin
June 6, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
ATTABOY BRIAN!!!!
By TennesseePaul
June 6, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
Awesome! All it took was me typing that quip. (and to a lesser extent, McCann’s effort)
GO BRAVES!!
By kirknga
June 6, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
I vote for The Wall for best R&R movie.
Yes Overlord mlb.com is having issues AGAIN.
McCann!!
By Will
June 6, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
YES! thank god for Chipper and Brian Mac!
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
B R I A N MC C A N!!!!!!!!!!!!
What a veteran AB.
By LuisGuillermo
June 6, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
Did anyone said McCann is having a hell of a season? Great at-bat!!!
By Braveheart
June 6, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
INFANTE!!
By Jeff321
June 6, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
Brian McCann just put a clinic on in the box! And ended it with a two run jack.
By McFann
June 6, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
So ya fallow up a GREAT PLAY with the GO AHEAD HOMER!!! So that gives him three hits this month—all homers.
By keylargo
June 6, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
TRY A SUICIDE SQUEEZE
By midaz
June 6, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
Hey McFann!
How bout that lousy catcher you seem to follow… :).
Nice shot to right for him.
By chrisklob
June 6, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this
Bosnian Baller
From wikipedia
A left-handed individual may be known as a southpaw, particularly in a sports context. It is widely accepted that the term originated in the United States, in the game of baseball.[23] Ballparks are often designed so that right-handed batters are facing east, so that the afternoon or evening sun does not shine in their eyes. This means that left-handed pitchers are throwing with their south-side arm. However, the Oxford English Dictionary lists a non-baseball citation for “south paw”, meaning a punch with the left hand, as early as 1848,[24] just three years after the first organized baseball game.
By Chip Caray Hater
June 6, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this
These past few PTV days have been brutal for me. Just listening to poor Joe Simpson having to make small talk with a blithering idiot, ruins the experience.
I wish there was a cable feature that would allow one to bring up the AB’s of Chipper and McCann, while watching another channel.
By JimD
June 6, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
Coach what you just saw out of Moyer is what you would see out of Maddux. Only good for 5 innings. And you know what you would do Coach, one of two things. You would with gripe about Cox leaving him out there for so long OR you would botch and mian because he was overworking the bullpen.
If we get a starter, I hope it is a good innings eater to give the pen a break. Other than Huddy and occasionally JJ, we can’t count on any of our starters going very deep in the game right now.
By kirknga
June 6, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
Wow! Again with the lack of execution on a bunt.
At least Bobby continues to call for them.
By LA Braves Fan
June 6, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
What does DOB look like??
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
McCann is amazing.
TJ
Giles makes a lot more sense. You would most definetly have to give up two or three very good prospects for Bay. I don’t think it is worth it.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
I wont say anything about that squeeze…… Im sure it will be sooooo criticized that my comment wont be need.
I supposed that aint on Cox either!!!
By Jeff321
June 6, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
I tell ya, not one game can go by that Bobby Cox doesn’t make a dumb decision. What is he trying to do a squeeze play for? You notice Hudson hit a fly ball to center.. And Blanco couldn’t do that for an insurance run?
By monty
June 6, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
Why Bobby Cox keeps us running into outs on squeeze plays is beyond me. I haven’t seen us get one down in ages. Way to go McCann!
By Will
June 6, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
The one reason i dont miss Braves on TBS is Chip Caray is absolutely unbearable. He is the worst baseball announcer i have ever heard. I used to have to watch on mute to not listen to him or Bobby Cox yelling COME ON Mac COME on Gilly COME ON Tex every pitch.
By Robert B
June 6, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
Jordan Schafer has gone crazy. 2-2 with 2 HR and 3 RBI’s Both Homers were to the opp field
By BosnianBaller
June 6, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
Thanks Chrisklob
By Tomahawk Kris
June 6, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
The Braves might just be the worst team in baseball at laying down a bunt. They consistently fail to get it done - and it is such a basic fundamental part of baseball.
By dean wormer
June 6, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this
chip (kevin bacon) all is well!
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this
Damn. Jenkins went the other way. That sucks. Hopefully Hudson can get Coste to hit into the DP.
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
Well that was obviously huge.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
ESCO!!!!!
By BosnianBaller
June 6, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
thanks chrisklob.
By TennesseePaul
June 6, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
84 pitches through 7. Hudson is tossing one helluva game.
By A-ville Ranger
June 6, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
Yunel made an all star play to save a run on that dp.
By Murphy
June 6, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
Nice DP!!
By Will
June 6, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
Great Pitching getting outta that jam.
By Will
June 6, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Great Pitching getting outta that jam.
By Braveheart
June 6, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
what a double play by escobar, kj and tex.
escobar is unbelievable with the glove. KJ has also looked much improved with the glove over the last two or so weeks.
barry bonds won’t be going to trial until 2009. Means his season won’t be interrupted. Sign him up! It’s better than watching an Infante/Norton platoon in left
By Robin
June 6, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Great DP ….and I still have my fingernails! wOOt!
By Kev
June 6, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Brian…what a hitter…i JUST dont understand WHY some “experts” say Soto is better than him(offensively speaking too)…Brian has way better numbers than him…you name it AVG,OBP, SLG,XBH,HR,even in Runs…plus Mac strikes out WAY LESS than Soto….BRIAN is the one that deserves to start in the All star game..freakin Cubs fans….if is up to them they’ll vote for their entire team..Theriot,Soto,Soriano,F*******,Derosa,all Ramirez and Lee are in the Top 5 in the ballots…i really dont like this fans get to vote who will start..cause then this will happen..all Cubs,red sox, yankees, mets fans get to choose all their players even if they dont deserve it!!!
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Superb DP all the way around.
Diving Yunel, problems to get the ball out of the glove.
Great turn by KJ, just great.
Great pick up by TEX at 1B.
Thumbs up braves!!!!
By geauxbraves2000
June 6, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Oh, what a play!!
Geaux Braves!!
By Tomahawk Kris
June 6, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
I don’t know if anyone has noticed, but ol’ Kyle Davies is pitching an absolute gem for KC against the Yankees. Everyone always said he had the stuff to be a good pitcher he just didn’t have it between the ears. I hope he does put it all together.
By LT-AA Blogger
June 6, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
Nice D- wouldn’t ever had been turned first month and a half.
By Larvell Blanks
June 6, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
KJ, what a turn!
Does anyone keep stats on failed squeeze plays? If so, I imagine Atlanta would be near the top.
By chrisklob
June 6, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
Robert B, are you listening on the radio, reading a game log/box score or what? Thanks for the updates.
By Coach (Braves in 2008 to the playoffs)
June 6, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
JimD, you have no clue. By the way, Maddux is averaging six innings per start. I’ll take Maddux any day of the week and twice on Sunday.
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
What does DOB look like??LA Braves Fan
I’m thinking a young Brando.
By chrisklob
June 6, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
Anyone else as sick of the Verizon “Wish You a Better Deal Day” commercial as I am? It’s not quite as annoying as that stupid Pepsi Max commercial from last year, but it’s not far behind.
By kirknga
June 6, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
I think the problem isn’t calling for the suicide bunt, it’s the lack of execution.
If Bobby stops calling for it, then opponents will pick up on it and will not have to consider it part of the Braves strategy. By continuing to call for it the other side still feels some pressure.
By Supes
June 6, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this
Mr. Baseball…still think McCann isn’t a lock to start the all star game playing like he is? Throwing runner out and the big hit in the game? Yeah, now I know why the Braves haven’t signed Jeff but signed BMac to that contract.
KC,
Jeff has been looking a lot like Andruw (the past year version) at the plate. Just unreal how obvious his approach at the plate is just not right. You’d figure he’d learn from Chipper’s approach?
OK, to settle this Maddux debate. Campillo or Maddux? Anyone? OK, I thought so too. Bring Maddux in here as the 5th starter and be done with it. Either that or bring up Charlie Morton now, let him make some starts so you know what you have in him.
By McFann
June 6, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this
midaz—
Yeah, he’s been pretty good this year, hasn’t he?
Not bad: 1-1 with a 2-run homer!
Let’s get s’more runs,PLEASE!! But after that DP, I’d say they’re meant to win…
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
Bravesfan: There’s a note on Gonzalez in my Braves notebook just posted on the website, with headline about Kotsay being discouraged.
By TJ
June 6, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
Efrim, I have no problem with Giles. But keep in mind… he’s 37, and makes more money (if we picked up his option in ‘09); and he’s left handed, and I think we need a RH bat.
Bay is 29, RH, signed cheap(er) through ‘09. A guy we could keep next year while we develop some of our young OF. (and maybe even longterm, to replace Frenchy, but that’s a whole other can ‘o worms.)
But, we’d need to find a good deal for him (Bay). I’d give up more for him than I would for Giles… but I don’t want to give up the farm for either. Bay is worth one good prospect, plus pieces, imo.
Anyway, not really disagreeing… it’s just a wish list.
By Will
June 6, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this
Why even sac bunt? you know they will just pitch around chipper and then its all gonna eventually gonna come down to Jeff Fran to drive in an insurance run. Not gonna happen.
By Tomahawk Kris
June 6, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
Bases loaded for Frenchy again - I am going to go out on a limb here and predict that he does not come through.
By dean wormer
June 6, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
overlord-d- day,
overlord has no grade point average , all classes incomplete.
all the baseball that you watch at least there should be some sort of osmossis.
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
Marlins are getting pounded 10-3 by Cincy in South Florida.
By Crabby Bill
June 6, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
Didn’t a chimp once lay down a bunt on ”The tonight show ”? I know the players union wouldn’t allow Cox to use a chimp in games but perhaps he could hire one to teach these guys how it’s done.
By JimD
June 6, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Coach, yes 6 innings all while pitching in a cavern with year round ideal weather. At Turner Field and in the ATL summer heat, he would wither even sooner. We need someone who is a threat every time out to go 7 or eight, if not all the way.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Can Frenchy take 3 and let Heap hit?
By mr baseball
June 6, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
Didn’t complain about the squeeze, which didn’t work. Didn’t complain about the intentional walk to Feliz, which worked. Neither decision was obviously right or wrong.
Having Kelly bunt is something else entirely. I doubt there’s another manager in the game who would willingly take the bat out of the hands of his own best hitter. Kelly is not going to ground into a DP, and even if he makes an out, I would just as soon given Chipper an AB with 1 on & 2 out as opposed to Tex with 2 on & 2 out.
I would really love to hear an explanation from Cox why he bunts in front of Chipper, but I doubt it would be very coherent, like most of what comes out of hsi mouth.
If any of you Cox defenders can explain it, go for it. It’s incomprehensible to me.
By Braveheart
June 6, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
horrible baserunning by escobar
By Andy
June 6, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
Lose an Andruw, gain an Andruw
By Shamus Thacker
June 6, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
Oft injured [or faking it] players should be recognized in some way. The Hammy Award, complete with a fractured glass sculpture of Hammenmeister, would be nice.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
Wow. I am not really sure what to say. Frenchy hit it on the nose and Escobar made a terrible baserunning decision.
By Tomahawk Kris
June 6, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
wow - that was horrible. What is the deal with the Braves being unable to capitalize with the bases loaded. What the hell was Escobar thinking? It didn’t even look like he was running hard when he was tagged out at the plate. That was pathetic!
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this
Well, now that was just dumb by Escobar. No possible way he scores on that play barring a terrible throw.
Francoeur hit the hell out of it, just right to the guy.
By A-ville Ranger
June 6, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
Escobar is just an awful base runner,not bad AWFUL.My poney league coach would have ripped into me for that mistake…JUST AWFUL.
By uga-brave
June 6, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
so please wake me up when francoeur has the ability to recognize the strike zone.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
Yunel……please explain…….what are you doing? Is there any 3B coach there? Was he buying a coffee or something?
Terrible mistake. That could have been a big inning to demoralize phillies for the series, instead, momentum turns around.
By McFann
June 6, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
Kev—
You’re absolutely right.
Yeah, now I know why the Braves haven’t signed Jeff but signed BMac to that contract. Supes
That’s exactly what we here at home just said after a second consecutive CHOKE with the bases loaded!!
By woogidy
June 6, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
That was a terrible baserunning play on so many levels.
By Robin
June 6, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
Really hope that base-running blunder doesn’t come back to bite us on the a$$. :(
By Larvell Blanks
June 6, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
McFann — ground-rule double robbing us of a run, can’t bring him in; failed squeeze; Yunel out by 20 feet tagging up late, wasting a bases-loaded, one-out situation —- and you think the omens say we’re “meant to win”??? I and the baseball gods blame you if this turns out badly.
By Will
June 6, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
Frenchy you suck buddy!! Way to sac bunt Bobby! I predicted that inning to perfectly and that is just sad
By Original Jon
June 6, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
FRENCHY HAS NO BUSINESS BATTING IN THE 5TH SPOT IN THE ORDER!!!!!!!!!! That is now 7 men he has left on base. Bobby needs to stop with the whole, oh, lets bat Frenchy 5th because a left hander is on the mound, and McCann 5th when there is a righty. That is the dumbest thing I have ever heard of. FRENCHY HAS NO BUSINESS BATTING IN THE 5 HOLE>
By mr baseball
June 6, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
My bad. Forgot there was only 1 out, not 2. That makes it even worse. Guess Cox was just trying to keep Chipper out of a possible GIDP.
Would love to see a breakdown of how many times the Braves have attempted to bunt (excluding pitchers but counting squeezes) and the percentage of times they have led to runs. Would bet the numbers are lower than W’s approval rating.
By TennesseePaul
June 6, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
What does DOB look like??
A middle aged Steve Buscemi, with a monocle.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
Come on guys… 22 down, 5 to gooooo!!!!
lets go braves!!!!!!!
By Will
June 6, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
Efrim, You are 110% right. I would much rather Chipper bat with 1 out and man on first. Nobody can properly explain why Cox did that but i am sure some will try. Just a stupid stupid decision.
By Billy (TBFnB)
June 6, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this
Will
June 6, 2008 9:54 PM
Why you not post your prediciton? I mean if I had that ability I would try and make some money.
By Larvell Blanks
June 6, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this
And now let us all pray that Manny Longball remains in the far corner of the bullpen.
By TennesseePaul
June 6, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
With this pitching Change Cox has assured Hudson’s great effort tonight will not be ruined with a Loss in his column. Hope the team holds on to win, but at least now Hudson won’t be tagged with the L.
By Robin
June 6, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
Fantastic job by Huddy tonight against a potent lineup! We need to pull this through for ‘im. Sure would’ve liked to have seen Mac up with the bags packed last inning. Attaway Ohman!
By Coach Smith
June 6, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
Can we all STOP with the “Lose an Andruw, gain an Andruw” quote?
Chipper meant that as a COMPLIMENT to Frenchy….
That said, I don’t care if it is a righty or lefty pitching…HE SHOULD NOT BE HITTING AHEAD OF MCCANN!
By Random
June 6, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
Tesh has still got *GREAT hands!!!
By Jeff321
June 6, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
Escobar is a great player, but he needs some serious base running lessons. And the whole team minus Chipper needs to get instruction on hitting to the opposite field and bunting. However, I doubt Cox would want to “inconvenience” his players for 2 hours a day until they get it right.
By McFann
June 6, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
OK, Larvell Blanks…
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
Thanks for those to replied about MLB.TV having problems.
Ohman and Infante have being just big…… And what i like the most, is that we might face cubs in playoffs and they might play that with fire in their eyes.
By bf54
June 6, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
I would like to get well beyond the 500 homer HOF standard. We have had a number of juicers and DH’s dilute this benchmark. Career-wise, who do you like Fred McGriff or Rafael Palmiero. I doubt Fred has any real chance of getting selected, but, boy, everybody salivates at Rafael’s numbers. What about Big Hurt - look it up, he wasn’t a position player. He extended his career and numbers, sitting on the bench and waiting to swing lumber.
Just my opinion, but I think 500 is artificial and should be totally eschewed as a standard.
By A-ville Ranger
June 6, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
Misapelled pony,that’s what happens when I get a few brews down.There’s nothing about Utley’s body that suggest power,yet he leads baseball ib HRs.An old instructor of mine defined power as ”speed + strength + focus = power”.
By mr baseball
June 6, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
If the Braves pinch hit for Ohman, Ring needs to pitch to Howard, then go to Soriano (if he’s available). If Ohman’s spot in the order doesn’t come up, he needs to stay in for at least 1 batter. No way should Howard get an AB against a hard throwing righty.
By Larvell Blanks
June 6, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
Geez, McCann looks like the best bunter on the team. Wonder if he can cook, too?
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
Wow, amazing bunt by brian. Good idea brian, and good bunt, bad luck though
By TennesseePaul
June 6, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
“McCann Bunt Grounds out, pitcher Ryan Madson to first baseman Ryan Howard. One out.”
A bunt ground out by McCann to lead off the inning??? What’s going on over there?
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
Damn. No Soriano? Can’t go two days in a row. I’m glad he told someone that he wasn’t good to go tonight.
By Will
June 6, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
Billy (TBfNB), I did post my prediction. Check 9:45 PM
By uga-brave
June 6, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
DOB,
was that brano or bando?
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this
Escobar has to get a base hit here. They need to make this a two run game. I mean, it should be like 7-1 for crying out loud.
By Josh from Columbus
June 6, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this
DOB
What’s wrong with Soriano?
By TennesseePaul
June 6, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this
Incredible! Ohman draws a walk. Nice bit of holding a bat and breathing Ohman!
By bravenate
June 6, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
What about Will Ohman for right field, what a turn, francour should pay attention to ohman
By jbutler
June 6, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
DOB So you’re thinking a young Brando…What is your girlfriend thinking?? :)
Seems to be some strange plays this past inning…hope the BP holds up - or my ulcers may not.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
This team….
hahaha. Yes, luck is huge part of one run games. But running yourself out of two consecutive innings can do it as well.
Wouldn’t shock me at all to see Howard or Burrell or Jenkins go deep.
At least we have the top of the order coming up in the bottom of the ninth.
By TennesseePaul
June 6, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
And a caught stealing to boot! Ohman’s all over the field!
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
If the Braves hang on, Huddy will be 6-1 with a 2.55 ERA in seven home starts.
By mr baseball
June 6, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
Braves can’t bunt, can’t run the bases, and only 25 percent of the starting lineup has a clue at the plate tonight.
But they’ve got a lead going to the bottom of the 9th. Ain’t baseball a great game?
Glad to see Ohman stay in the game for Howard, but I think he blew his hopes at ever being used as a pinch-runner.
By Larvell Blanks
June 6, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
Why do I think Helo is getting ready to sabotage Roslin’s plans again? Oh, wait, that’s on Battlestar Galactica. Have to stop this channel-switching.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
BC is asking for three relievers to come in and be sharp. That is asking a lot in my mind. Ohman looks excellent, why not keep him in there???
By N8
June 6, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
OK. I’m willing to concede that NOT scoring a run on Chipper’s ground-rule double, was “bad luck”.
But Escobar and Ohman have been poster boys for BAD BASE-RUNNING.
Two HORRIBLE decisions. One by a guy that should no better. The other, by a guy that has NO BUSINESS running the bases.
Yikes.
By chrisklob
June 6, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
bf54
The only problem with your argument (at least one aspect) is the fact that it ignores the fact that pitchers were/are also juicing during this period which gave them a competitive advantage over the clean position players. What is more impressive, 500 career HR’s hit against clean pitchers or 500 hit off of some dirty ones?
However, If you want to say that the 500 HR mark is no longer relevant due to the influx of smaller ballparks and a more tightly wound baseball, I think you’d have an argument.
By dean wormer
June 6, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
coach smith.
you must be from gwinnet county. fran-flounder might be the the most ower-hyped player to ever wear a braves uniform.
By McFann
June 6, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
Past the computer’s (and bird’s) bedtime. Gotta shut down. (3BMac almost beat that bunt! LOL)
Night, all!!
By godawgs701
June 6, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
WTF? No Soriano? What’s up DOB?
By bgvt
June 6, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
Why take out Ohman? Burrell hits RH and LH pitching about the same; Jenkins hits RH pitching better than LH pitching. Boyer…yikes.
By N8
June 6, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith
“Can we all STOP with the “Lose an Andruw, gain an Andruw” quote?…Chipper meant that as a COMPLIMENT to Frenchy….”
Not to be an azz. But I don’t think so.
I think it was a good “ribbing” of a team-mate and a little bit of a jab at Andruw.
Granted it was said in a sarcastic, humorous manner, but I don’t think it was intended as a compliment to anybody.
By woogidy
June 6, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
OMG! I’m out of fingernails!
By Shamus Thacker
June 6, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
From what I’ve surmised so far, DOB is somewhere between a young Marlon Brando and Colonel Klink…
By godawgs701
June 6, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
TAKE HIM OUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Larvell Blanks
June 6, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
Let’s hope that in the three minutes it takes for this to post, my fears will be proven unfounded. BUT … I have a bad feeling about this.
By Crabby Bill
June 6, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
This is most wanking team I’ve ever followed,unreal.
By Braveheart
June 6, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
OMG!
By David O'Brien
June 6, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
UNN-believable.
By chrisklob
June 6, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot
By Random
June 6, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
Shaun —
Based on Bobby’s strategic moves and non-moves with the pitcher last night (eg, feinting with a pinch hitter, then having Jurrjens bat) and tonight (eg, leting Ohman bat), are you still hard over for the DH in the NL?
Or were you just playing Devil’s advocate previously?
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
HOLY S**!!!!!!!
THAT WAS SO AWFUL!!!!!!
KELLY, YOU BETTER MAKE UP FOR IT MY FRIEND!!!!!!!!!
By godawgs701
June 6, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
You’ve gotta be kidding.
By Larvell Blanks
June 6, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
I blame McFann.
By Robin
June 6, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
UNBELIEVABLE!!! Stunned!
By kirknga
June 6, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
I’ve seen it all now. You almost had to see it coming with the failure to score with runners in scoring position and less than 2 out.
By Will
June 6, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
I dont remotely understand why Ohman was taken out after dominating Utley and Howard. Regardless of whether this works out still yet another bad decision by Cox.
By Tomahawk Kris
June 6, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Oh my GOD!!!! Kelly Johnson should be benched for that crap. I can’t believe I just saw that - what kind of bush league crap is that. I just threw up in my mouth a little.
By Jeff321
June 6, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
This is f’ing unbelievable! I can’t decide who to blame.. Either Boyer for walking two guys, Cox for leaving (or putting) him in there in the first place, or Johnson for dropping the third out! And now those wasted opportunities come home to roost. SHEESH!
By TennesseePaul
June 6, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
What a bad way to blow the game. And Boyer gets the blown save on that? These rules will have to be adjusted.
By Edward
June 6, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
And that my friends is WHY the ATLANTA BRAVES NEED A Bonafide CLOSER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
IS THERE ANYTHING NEEDED TO BE SAID ABOUT KJ??? Im done pounding that guy, he is just not worth it. Cant even catch a beach ball. Even my german shepherd could have catch that. Maybe Ill just have to teach him to hit and he could replace KJ.
By Philliesuk
June 6, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
We are cursed. Some force out there is keeping us from winning one-run games.
By Salt Lake Brave
June 6, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
You’ve got to be S H I T T I N G Me!!! Two hands JOHNSON you SON OF A B I T I C H
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
THIS F*** SUCKS.
By Will
June 6, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
Cox you stupid idiot!! You leave Ohman in and the Braves are 2-1 winners right now. This crap gets so old its sickening. Another F-You to tim hudson on a great start as well.
By dean wormer
June 6, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
boyer dead, johnson dead.
hey bluto is right. toga, toga, toga.
what a bunch of young guys that dont know how to win.
notice i did not say losers.
By princetonbrave
June 6, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this
If there is a way to lose a 1 run game, the Braves will find it.
By TURTSNAP
June 6, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this
Appears to me the Braves need a 2B, another OF and another arm
By princetonbrave
June 6, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
Saddest part of that travesty of a 9th by Boyer and KJ is that it cost Huddy a win.
By dmstr25
June 6, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this
I swear the announcers jinx them with all of this talk about strategy for getting three measly outs.
It’s
By Saltywoody
June 6, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot
If I weren’t so stunned by what I just saw, I’d by dying with laughter at that.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
I am in utter shock right now.
By braves70
June 6, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this
This has been a total team failure tonight. A big fat F for Cox, Francoeur, Johnson, Escobar, Boyer, Tex and Ohman for base running.
By Andy
June 6, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith: Whine on baby. He doesnt belong in the 5th hole. He has the lowest average of all regulars on the team. He looks completely awful at the plate. Chipper was ribbing at him and andruw. Dummy.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this
I have never been more mad and dissapointed.
And then there is Tex and Frenchy with 2 on and 1 out.
Strikeout and a pop up.
This is awful. This will be the worst loss of the year and last three years. What is wrong with this team?
By lexbrave
June 6, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this
yes its bobby’s fault kelly dropped that can of corn.. i wish you could see my eyes rolling.
By woogidy
June 6, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this
I am prematurely balding because of this team. At this rate I’ll be a chrome dome in August.
By Will
June 6, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
FRENCHY you are the man buddy great AB’s tonight!! Whoever is gonna pay Mark Tex 20 mil is an idiot. A guy making that kind of money would not gag when there are intentional walks to get to face him. Can somebody please explain to me how bad Kelly Johnson’s error was?? I am watching gamecast and have no idea what he did.
By Larvell Blanks
June 6, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
Manny Longball!!!!!
By Tomahawk Kris
June 6, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
This game has extra innings loss written all over it. I am so sick and tired of watching this team blow it. This whole game has been about missed opportunities or the Braves. Frenchy sucks - the guy is a bum. KJ is a POS and I swear if I were Tim Hudson I beat his a s s for that crap.
Oh great here comes Manny Acosta - Game Over. Another game we should have won, but ends up being a loss.
By Steve In VaBch
June 6, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
I am not sure i can blame KJ since Boyer walked two batters with 2 outs…..wtf is that about
By Tom
June 6, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
It is good that Tex THINKS that he is worth 20+ million a year. Talk about totally worthless, besides Cox’s bone head pitching moves that has resulted in another blown save Tex’s performance so far has been pathetic.
By Philliesuk
June 6, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
This is ridiculous. How many runners can Francoeur leave on base? Nice way to swing at ball four. Good pitch selection.
I expect the Phillies to put at least a 3-spot in this inning. Don’t know why, but I’ll be shocked if we win this game.
By Mike
June 6, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
Could Francouer be any more useless? Seriously, how many times do I have to watch this guy swing at balls off the plate or over his head? It’s unbelievable how dumb this kid is.
By dean wormer
June 6, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
how bad is this guy. meet jugdish, mohamedd , etc… 9 guys left on base superstar.
he really squares up the ball well.
By Michael
June 6, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this
What happened? I’m in London and can’t watch the game? Was it a pop up that KJ just dropped? Somebody help me.
By Phillie Fan
June 6, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this
Snicker
By Larvell Blanks
June 6, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
Does anyone think Manny will get out of this?
By princetonbrave
June 6, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
Well, with Manny in, we wont have to worry about another 1-run lose.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
I wonder where is the guy that said KJ will be like Utley in a few years….. got to be joking me.
By TennesseePaul
June 6, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
At least we know if they get a 1 run lead the game is over.
Oh who am I kidding, it’s extra innings, the game is already over. But Hudson didn’t get the loss!
By Edward
June 6, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
This team DOES NOT DESERVES TO BE IN THE PLAYOFFS!!..i feel bad for Hudson…he pitched his heart out toninght..for what…for Nothing..two scrubs fail..Boyer and Johnson should be crucified….that kind of PITCHING AND DEFENSE does NOT belong in the MAJOR LEAGUES!!
By Philliesuk
June 6, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
Told you.
By Phillie Fan
June 6, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
Snicker louder
By Murphy
June 6, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
Terrible. Terrible. There went the home magic. If I was in the stands you would hear me booing Frenchy and Manny. Terrible.
By JimD
June 6, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
Hey, DOB, if you want to interview Manny you might better run on down there now. Or maybe hang out around the players parking lot.
By rolltideface
June 6, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
I’m in Pensacola so I had to pay (mlbtv.com) to watch that! Seriously- he should be ashamed of himself.
By rolltideface
June 6, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
I’m in Pensacola so I had to pay (mlbtv.com) to watch that! Seriously- he should be ashamed of himself.
By Will
June 6, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
I am gonna GOD DAMN LOSE IT!!! Manny Acosta i knew this game was over the second that jackass idiot was brought into this game. this is just UNBELIEVABLE!!!!!!!!1111
By Phillie Fan
June 6, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
Snicker louder
By TennesseePaul
June 6, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
Acosta really fell from the top fast. This guy can’t even give up singles any more.
By dean wormer
June 6, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
anyone notice that frenchy runs like mandy peppridge with his arms slightly raised.
By rolltideface
June 6, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
I’m in Pensacola so I had to pay (mlbtv.com) to watch that! Seriously- he should be ashamed of himself.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
And Snelling doubles.
I can’t take this s**.
Good night folks.
Cox better get this team’s head straight because this team is far too talented to lose these games.
And there goes Victorino with a big hit in a big spot.
Yea, this team can win close September/October games?
Yea.
Hey mr baseball, whatever I said to you man, you were right. The team doesn’t have the right mentality to win this division.
By Tomahawk Kris
June 6, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this
I am so p** off right now. G O D D AM I T Braves. THis has to be one of the most pathetic games I have seen all year. Way to ruin a great game pitched by Hudson. I swear sometimes I hate the Braves - my night is ruined. Kelly Johnson sucks I officially hate that a-hole.
By rolltideface
June 6, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this
I’m in Pensacola so I had to pay (mlbtv.com) to watch that! Seriously- he should be ashamed of himself.
By GT80
June 6, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
I just watched a 3rd place team play tonight. Even though the game isn’t over the Braves deserve to lose this one. Poor baserunning, poor execution at the bat, poor fielding, poor managing. A shame because Huddy gave you great starting pitching. Bobby, if you are going to go righty-lefty, go all the way. Sheesh, hard to watch this.
Thanks for letting me vent.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
I still feel as if the play just happened 3 seconds ago!!!!!!!!!!!
Bench that “%·”&%$/$%/”!%$&/(%,
DL him for stupidity!!!!!!!!
By Mike
June 6, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
Shocker of the year…Acosta blows it. I mean come on. I love the Braves, but I’m a realist…this team is going nowhere.
By Coach Smith
June 6, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
This is EFFIN DISGUSTING….this is how you lose division championships..
Everyone should be home in bed with a win…
This is hard to watch…makes your stomach turn…
These are the kinds of loses that can kill a team
By Salt Lake Brave
June 6, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
I have been a Braves fan since my childhood. And will always be one. But sometimes this is really hard to watch. But I will always live and die with the Braves. Go Braves!!!
By kirknga
June 6, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
Now it seems we can’t trust Boyer or Acosta. I’m trying hard not to let the doom-and-gloom monster get me but damn these guys are breaking my heart.
By brian
June 6, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
If anybody is wondering why the Braves do so poorly in 1 run games, just look at tonight. Multiple mistakes on the basepaths that cost us runs keeping it a one run game. Walking 2 batters in the 9th inning. Dropping a popup. An overworked Acosta falling apart. It may only be early June but this will be a devastating loss if we do not come back
By Larvell Blanks
June 6, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
The saddest part is that this is all going as expected.
By woogidy
June 6, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this
Acosta = Huge pile of animal feces, Oh wait, you can use that stuff for something. Uhhh, Acosta = A gay studded horse.
By iowabrave
June 6, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
Everyone can yell at KJ all they want, and he should have made the play, but the fact is if this was a contending team, they would have gotten a couple hits with RISP earlier in the game and made that play moot. But the fact is they aren’t a contender. This was a make or break series for the Bravos to show they belong at the top with the Phils. They don’t.
By MrC
June 6, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
Not Ready For Prime Time, in no particular order: Francoer, Johnson, Acosta. The shine is definitely off of these players.
By N8
June 6, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
EVERY time I hit fly balls to my 10 year old, I scold him if he doesn’t use two hands.
Who’s gonna yell at KJ? Surely not Bobby.
16 pitchers later, we can’t hold a frickin’ 1 run lead.
Unreal.
THAT being said. Just because KJ can’t execute a play that little league kids could make, DOES NOT take Tex and Francoeur off the hook for the HORRIBLE AB’s in the bottom of the 9th.
By MattyRoss
June 6, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
There was a game against the D-Backs a few years back where the last out wasn’t recorded due to a dropped third strike…Arizona went on to win. Similar situation, since they were damn good that year. Don’t remember when it was exactly, but I do remember Pete Van Weiren making a “snatching defeat from the jaws of victory” type of comment…didn’t think I’d ever see a loss like that again.
TEX has got to get a hit there, no? Goodness gracious.
By Brad
June 6, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
I can’t help but overstate this. I’ve got a really bad feeling that in September we’re gonna look back on this game as the one that cost us most.
I wonder if Acosta will stick around in the clubhouse tonight.
By gabart
June 6, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
And WHO was at bat and stranded, at last count, 8 men on base?…..Frenchy, that’s who. He is turning into more of a liability than an asset at the plate if he doesn’t figure out what the hell he has to do to connect with the ball. I love the guy dearly, but we’re more than a third into the season and the rest of the team is leaving him in the dirt. All things added up, with tonight’s lousy base-running and offense…..they deserved to lose. You can’t play this way against a team like the Phillies. I feel SO sorry for Huddie who really pitched a good game. I’m already getting weary of these 9th inning collapses…..GRRRRRRRR!!!!!
By Scott Thorman
June 6, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
So, Do I get a another chance now?
By dmstr25
June 6, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
I’ve been watching Braves games for a long time.
The worst game I’ve ever seen was game four of the 2005 Division series against the Astros.
The worst regular-season game: I think it’s this one. I have never seen such a performance. 12 men left on. Idiotic base-running. Francouer leaves 9 men on base. The ninth inning, TWO OUTS. NOBODY ON. Two walks. A dropped pop-up. Acosta gets ripped AGAIN.
Listening to Chip and Joe, they’re so dejected, it’s like there’s no way the Braves can win this one.
I don’t know how they don’t just come out and call the Braves what they are: a JOKE.
By Gary
June 6, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
Kelly Johnson has officially lost all confidence from me as a Braves fan. I don’t care if he ever plays another game for Atlanta, that was simply pathetic. USE TWO HANDS!!! How hard is that?
By Crabby Bill
June 6, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
DOB Why do you think the team loses most of these close games ? Bobby Cox Well it’s hard for me to say,I’m usually asleep by the 7th inning. DOB If you had to give one reason ?Bobby Cox Well we’re not very smart,that’s for sure. DOB So the lack of intelligence would be the chief reason ? Bobby Cox I’d say it’s in the top two or three along with no heart and a lack of leadership for sure. DOB Thanks for your honesty Bobby it’s really refreshing. Bobby Cox Speaking of refreshing I’m gonna go top off my buzz,later Danny. DOB It’s David. Bobby Cox You sure about that ? DOB Yea. Bobby Cox I knew a David back in high school DOB Good night Bobby Bobby Cox…..Night Danny.
By Murphy
June 6, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
Well it only took 10 innings, but finally Frenchy gets benched!
By Edward
June 6, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
This team is just a joke…Bobby threw this game when he putted MANNY ACOSTA in extras…results: leadoff double, a triple and a run scored..thank you Manny…you can take all of that TO RICHMOND!!!!!…i wonder why do they have Phil STOCKMAN…they NEVER use him never ever ever…i mean…Two days ago many blew a game like this away…and they PUT HIM AGAIN!!..send this LOSER outta HERE WREN!!
By Coach Smith
June 6, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
ANDY
Can you read you freakin JERK?
I plainly said after my comment..IN CAPITAL letters just for an IDIOT like you that Francoeur DID NOT BELONG HITTING THERE…
I am just tired of no originality and seeing that comment over and over again…Frenchy is making me sick…I’m just tired of the comment…
Until Frecnhy hits 400 hrs and wins 10 gg then he shouldn’t be mentioned with AJ in ANY WAY
By The Atlanta Braves at Turner Field
June 6, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
New exciting ways to lose!
Come on down to Turner Field and watch your Atlanta Braves invent new loses to blow games! We got bad baserunning, failed squeeze plays, relief pitcher caught stealings, no-control pitchers who walk two with two outs in the bottom of the ninth with no one on, dropped game-ending popflys and the amazing Hackouer: a man who will swing and either miss or ground into a doubleplay or pop-up (depending on # of baserunners and outs) on just about anything…on any count!
By Random
June 6, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
“There’s something inside most of us that wants to unleash some rage after the home team loses.”
Yeah, Kelly, we’re talkin’ ‘bout you.
By faninFaytown
June 6, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
im so sick of watching this s**
By MrC
June 6, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
What is the record for men left on base in a single game???? Francoer has 9….so far.
By FloridaBrave
June 6, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
Whoa, Whoa, Whoa
Our 2B drops a routine pop fly, a catch that would have won the game, and Bobby Cox is to blame?
Some of the ignorance on this blog never ceases to amaze me.
If you want to fault Bobby, fault him for bringing in a recently ineffective Acosta in a tied ballgame. But all-in-all, we won this game if Kelly catches the ball.
End of story.
By Will
June 6, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
This is the kind of BS that .500 baseball teams pull! Braves will never make the playoffs again with that senile babbling idiot pulling the strings in the dugout. I knew the freaking second Acosta came in this game was over. LEAVE WILL OHMAN IN THE DAMN GAME!!!!! Braves have lost two games this week after taking out an efficent and highly effective Ohman. This is pure crap. I dont care if its only June 6. This is a sickening loss.
By mo
June 6, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
Look at that. Frenchy taken out of the game? Good. There are people on this blog who actually think this team can make the playoffs. Wow. Playoff teams don’t lose these games.
By Crash Davis
June 6, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
Hopeless. Utterly F******* I N G hopeless
By Tomahawk Kris
June 6, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
Francouer is totally useless. He is a bum. I really hope the Braves don’t sign him because whatever he wants he ain’t worth it. I get that the kid is from around here, but he isn’t as good as advertised. He should of stuck to football - what a jerk. I hate this team. They get your hopes up and then they send them crashing down every single time. I am sick of watching this team and then going to be pis sed off.
You just know they are going to go on this roadtrip and go 2-8 and then play well enough at home to be right around .500.
By Larvell Blanks
June 6, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this
I’m a little conflicted over whether we’ll meekly go 1-2-3 in the bottom of the 10th, or whether we’ll score one and leave the tying run on base. Predictions?
By monty
June 6, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this
Bunch of Little Leaguers! Can’t bunt, can’t catch pop-ups, can’t tag up, can’t throw strikes in the 9th inning. THis was supposed to be the big show down, show em who’s boss on our home field. The Phillies are going to laugh their butts off in the club house.
By MrC
June 6, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this
396 posts at 11:00 p.m. My guess is there will be 1,000 before tomorrow’s game. Unless of course we get a new drawing board.
By woogidy
June 6, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this
What’s that slogan? “Welcome to the Bigs” This team minus Chipper looks awful.
By TNjeff
June 6, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this
I was one of the few that predicted on the poll earlier today that the Braves would get swept by the Phillies. I’ve learned not to underestimate the ability of this team and this idiot manager to lose winnable games!
Bench Johnson til he learns to use 2 hands & bench Escobar til he learns how to run the bases.
Bench Acosta til the minor league roster is completely depleted.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this
N8
Sorry about my excuses for the one run thing man. Haha. What happened tonight was just the Braves playing tight baseball because of that 3-16 one run record. They will continue to play tight in these close games because they simply don’t believe they can win these games.
By braves70
June 6, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this
For old-time Braves fans: Dosen’t Francoeur remind you of Brad Komminsk? All the press, the next Dale Murphy, and then nothing.
By Dan in NJ
June 6, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this
WOW. How GREAT has Stockman been? UNhitable / UNtouchable. SOOOoooooo glad he’s in the bigs.
Glad to see B.Cox not using the same guys EVERY f. night. and giving a guy a day off here n there. UNREAL.
By Jeff321
June 6, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this
I really can’t see having Acosta on this team any longer. I read on mlb trade rumors the Rangers just DFA’ed Ponson for bad behavior. Do ya think he might be a little too “toxic” for Bobby Cox’s perfect club house? I mean, seeing that great clubhouses don’t proudce world series rings.. Anyway, tonight has been an utter and complete failure on so many levels.
By Tomas
June 6, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
This game hurts, it’s like a kick in the croch. After I saw Victorino’s hit I just changed the channel, i cannot watch this anymore. I can’t blame an Kelly, but how could you drop that ball in the most critical part of the game. And Escobar, how could you be so stupid on going on the Francoeur long flyball and be thrown out at the plate by Pat Burrel. The Braves don’t deserve this one.
Anyway changing into a less depressing subject, I heard Mike Gonzales is feeling great, and his velocity is back to 94mph, and he is going to triple A for a couple of rehab starts. He sure would be a usefull addition to the club specially when Soriano cannot pitch in every single game.
There is a curse in one run games for the braves this year. It can’t happen, it’s either a pitchers fault giving up homeruns and walks, or its a fielding miscue.
By Philly Fan
June 6, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this
Where are those Lidge haters?
By Shamus Thacker
June 6, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this
Liquor complicates the simple game of baseball…
Maybe it ain’t only me. I’d love to know what DOB knows. Of course DOB couldn’t tell us if Bobby’s liquored-up before certain games. I wouldn’t expect him to tell us, and I’d be disappointed if he did. I think DOB believes in honor over a story or headline. I’m not schmoozing or brown-nosing, I just think he’s a class dude, and I believe when a person is a class act, somebody should let them know it’s appreciated once in a while.
Back to Bobby before I begin to sob.
OK, I think Bobby is liquored-up half the time. I’m not criticizing the guy, cause I’d be drunker than I believe he is. I’d have to be wheeled or carried to the mound for pitching changes, and I’d prolly stagger to the wrong dugout after exchanging lineup cards. I’d also be making more bad decisions than Bobby’s made this year. Course I ain’t been managing baseball my whole damn life.
OK, I just realized I’ve written to the point of being regarded the damn blog book writer.
SO.
Without further adieu, Aloha, from the breezy buzzarama of Cedartown…
Oh Yeah. CHEERS!!
By mr baseball
June 6, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
After his flameout in the 9th 2 days ago, don’t really understand why Acosta was in the game, but that’s pretty much par for the course for Chance the Manager. Sending the game to extras just gives Cox more opportunities to make head-scratching decisions regarding his bullpen.
By Murphy
June 6, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
SPEED. This is what it can do for 9 innings!! Keep Frenchy benched…
By N8
June 6, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
The Braves dugout looks like the night of the living dead.
How about 1 run in the bottom of the 10th, to make it a 1-run loss?
If only we had Pujols on our team, huh?
By Tomahawk Kris
June 6, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
If Bobby Cox plays down KJ’s mindnumbing defensive blunder and the missed opportunities tonight I am done with this team. The Braves don’t need to be coddled they need to be kicked in the A S S real hard. Kelly Johnson and Francouer need to hat a bat taken to their heads.
By jimmac
June 6, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
Will - can of corn, hit the palm of the glove, and bounced out.
By New Braves Baseball At Turner Field Commercial
June 6, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
It’s the tragic in every game
Seeing a future Hall of Famer pitch five and a third
The look on a kid’s face as the poster on his wall drops a fly ball
Is there anything better?
Atlanta Braves baseball at Turner Field
By BravesDave
June 6, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
Wow, just wow. F this team. Two absolute heartbreakers in the past three games.
Nothing more than a .500 team.
Time to watch a real closer. You know, the one that the Phillies acquired for a song in the offseason.
By chrisklob
June 6, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
I hope that someone like Chipper or Mac destroys the clubhouse after this game. Someone, one of the team leaders, has GOT to send a message that this type of play is NOT acceptable.
Seriously, Bobby can’t seem to motivate them. Someone’s got to step up and call BS on the lack of discipline and execution that this team is exhibiting.
By rolltideface
June 6, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
sorry- didn’t mean to hit that so many times. Yeah- I agree with the previous posts, M Tex needs to get a hit there, as does Frenchy.
By David
June 6, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
It’s official. Jeff Francouer is the new Andruw. Plays good D, but never lives up to potential and shows no discipline at the plate.
By Dan in NJ
June 6, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
I hope Cox is smart enough and give Stockman a much needed day off tomorrow. I’d hate to see him pitch again tomorrow. Might blow his arm out from alllll the work he’s put in.
By N8
June 6, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
Did anybody REALLY think that Norton was gonna come through in that spot? LOL!
If you did. That’s funny.
By MrC
June 6, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
almost
By N8
June 6, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
Live….he looked safe.
But it shouldn’t have come to that.
By BravesDave
June 6, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
Anyone want to bet that the Braves don’t score here?
By Larvell Blanks
June 6, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
Well. Poetic.
By alan
June 6, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
That at bat by Norton was just awful. Seriously one of the worst I’ve ever seen in the majors.
By dmstr25
June 6, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this
It had to end that way.
Had to be a one-run loss.
Had to. Had to. Had to. Had to.
I am going to throw something out a window.
By woogidy
June 6, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this
omfg
By Coach Smith
June 6, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this
I won’t be able to sleep for a while..FINALLY get the DAMN hit and still it backfires….
watch us get swept right out after the way this one went down
By Shamus Thacker
June 6, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this
Tomahawk Kris, don’t hold back, go ahead and tell us how you really feel… lol
By kirknga
June 6, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this
Just enough for a 1-run loss.
By princetonbrave
June 6, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
Whew - For a minute there I thought we were going to lose by 2.
F*!
By FloridaBrave
June 6, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this
This was one of the most heart-breaking losses in recent memory. I don’t know what to say…
By Mike
June 6, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this
So f’n typical. Just make it close enough to break my heart again. I’m done with bunch. Screw this, I don’t need to be wasting 3 hours every night just to be p** off.
By Shamus Thacker
June 6, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this
Maybe I’m underestimating Bobby. Anybody know if he has a history of dropping acid?
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this
He was out. 3-17 IN ONE RUN GAMES.
Someone up there really does hate this team.
By MrC
June 6, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this
Sometimes I hate sports. You get emotionally wrapped up with a team and you get a kick in the 8alls. It hurts.
By Charlie
June 6, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this
WHAT A JOKE!!!!! The Atlanta Braves… The Home of the CHOKERS! Jeff F. nice job of choking every at bat with runners on. Mr. “Deer in the headlights”…go back to Rome. Maybe you can grin your way through “A” ball. Kelly Johnson, drop a Little League pop up in the 9th. Wow. Nice Choke, KJ. Blaine Boyer, had to walk 2, with 2 out huh? You can’t ever finish anything off. Choke.
Manny “I COST ya” another game. Choker.
Yunel, nice job of little league baserunning. (Lessons from the lefty relief corps?)
This group sucks so bad they should give back their paychecks. They don’t desrve to be in a major league uniform. What a joke.
LOSERS!
By TennesseePaul
June 6, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this
Ahhhh it’s games like these that made Elton John a Braves fan.
By Charlie
June 6, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
WHAT A JOKE!!!!! The Atlanta Braves… The Home of the CHOKERS! Jeff F. nice job of choking every at bat with runners on. Mr. “Deer in the headlights”…go back to Rome. Maybe you can grin your way through “A” ball. Kelly Johnson, drop a Little League pop up in the 9th. Wow. Nice Choke, KJ. Blaine Boyer, had to walk 2, with 2 out huh? You can’t ever finish anything off. Choke.
Manny “I COST ya” another game. Choker.
Yunel, nice job of little league baserunning. (Lessons from the lefty relief corps?)
This group sucks so bad they should give back their paychecks. They don’t desrve to be in a major league uniform. What a joke.
LOSERS!
By Coach (Braves in 2008 choking the season away)
June 6, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
Gag me already ! What a joke ! I think this team is going to find a million different ways to lose by one run.
This team just makes me sick to my stomach.
By Charlie
June 6, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
WHAT A JOKE!!!!! The Atlanta Braves… The Home of the CHOKERS! Jeff F. nice job of choking every at bat with runners on. Mr. “Deer in the headlights”…go back to Rome. Maybe you can grin your way through “A” ball. Kelly Johnson, drop a Little League pop up in the 9th. Wow. Nice Choke, KJ. Blaine Boyer, had to walk 2, with 2 out huh? You can’t ever finish anything off. Choke.
Manny “I COST ya” another game. Choker.
Yunel, nice job of little league baserunning. (Lessons from the lefty relief corps?)
This group sucks so bad they should give back their paychecks. They don’t desrve to be in a major league uniform. What a joke.
LOSERS!
By midtownBrave
June 6, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
GOLDENBOY lost the game for the Braves. Of course there were plays that should have been made, base-running mistakes that should have been avoided, but coming up empty twice with the bases loaded?
By Will
June 6, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
After all this BS of tonight we have to see an ending like that this is just beyond disgusting. I hate this team.
By Deep Throat
June 6, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
Another one-run loss.
Instead of 2.5 back, it’s 4.5. The Braves will have to win the next two just to get to where they should have been after tonight. And the pitching matchups aren’t getting any more favorable. This team apparently can’t stand prolonged success.
Imagine if Acosta wasn’t so awful, howe these two homestand losses might have turned out. But by all means Bobby, keep using him in every other late-and-close game.
By Edward
June 6, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
HAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHA AHAHAH to the Braves PLAY IN THIS GAME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THATS WHAT we deserved!!…we didnt PLAY to win in this game!! HAHAHAHA..just FEEL REALLY REALLY BAD for Huddy…4.5 GB and counting…DOB..the TITLE of the next Blog should be: BRAVES PLAYING IN CLOWN SUITS!!
By Shamus Thacker
June 6, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
Looks to me like the night of the dead dead.
By Original Jon
June 6, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
I blame this game on Jeff Francoeur for leaving 9 men on base throughout the course of the game. I blame Blaine BOyer and Kelly Johnson for blowing the lead in the top of the ninth, I also blame Bobby Cox for once again using Manny Acosta in a close game when he just blew a game a few days ago.
By N8
June 6, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
Ironically, did anybody see Escobar clapping his hands together as he ran towards first base? The Phillies announcers did, and laughed about it.
Replay showed he was out. Didn’t look like it live. Good throw, good catch, good block, good tag.
Bad luck, I guess…..right?
Not sure why Stockman is even up with the Braves, but this one isn’t on Bobby tonight.
Bad base-running.
Bad defense.
Bad hitting by Tex and Frenchy in the bottom of the 9th (actually the whole game).
Bad pitching from Boyer (over-using that damn curve-ball), can’t walk those guys THERE.
HORRIBLE AB by Norton.
And being on the short end of a fantastic play to end the game.
By Coach Smith
June 6, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
The way VICTORINO was jumping up and down, pumping his fists, and screaming after his hit in the 10th and Assist in the bottom of the 10th..
He needs to get one in the back tomorrow…
That was all alittle too much
By BravesFanChris23
June 6, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
There should be no blame whatsoever on Cox for the loss. As much as I like and respect Kelly Johnson, he cost us the game. The ball should have been caught and we would’ve won the game.
By Greg O.
June 6, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
I’m embarrassed to be a Braves fan. 1)Because Kelly Johnson dropped that ball. 2)Because calling myself a Braves fan lumps me in with the utter idiots who blame anything besides Kelly Johnson dropping the would-be final out of the game. Maybe it’s just the immediate frustration, but I can’t remember a time when I’ve been more disgusted with a Braves loss.
By Brad
June 6, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
I feel like I just got punched in the stomach.
By Phillie Fan
June 6, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
Sorry, I can’t even just give a snicker for that. It’s like the Braves don’t even want to win. I almost feel sorry for you guys. That was unreal. That was about the worst that Lidge was been all year, and we still won. But I guess that is what you get for winning 14 titles in a row. All that luck has changed. How’s it feel?
By Robert
June 6, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
Just watched the worst played game I have ever seen. All season the Braves lose one run games for two simple reasons. Lack of good management and coaching. And “Frencie” is the most overrated player in franchise history. He turned down McCann money? McCann is worth twice as much as him. I love McCann but can’t he slim down and train to run faster than an old woman with one leg? Thank you Chipper! Thank god you are a veteran and don’t require coaching or you would not be hitting 400. Retire Bobby! You and I have the same birthday and name, but I would know to step down.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 6, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
GOOD THING FOR THE PHILLIES THAT KJ WAS NOT PLAYING CF FOR THEM
Please email me when that guy is traded, Ill be gone til then.
kjsucks@hotmail.com
By JEB
June 6, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
Two Games in One Week Two games we should have had locked down in the ninth and blown! Two games in 3 days!
Unbelievable!! Unbelievable!
Frenchy at bat 3 times to help the team and KILLS us!
2 walks with 2 outs in the ninth, a dropped “can of corn”. Does this team want to win??
It really appears that these guys do not really know how to focus when it really matters!
Right now we could be 1 game out of 1st. With those 2 losses we back to 4.5 games out. UNBELIEVABLE!!!!!!!
By chopperhobby
June 6, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
Who do give the scarlet L to tonight. Johnson for a minor league play,Boyer for the walks,Accosta for his great pitching,Escobar for the great base running, or Francoeur who couldn’t hit a cow on the a* with a snow shovel and had a hundred L O B.
By woodie
June 6, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
The Braves will need to re-build soon. I wish we could trade Tex for a young arm before we get nothing for him. With our payroll we are obviously using stop-gap players in a few positions. We need a shutdown strike throwing closer also. Mama said there would be days like this.
By Kev
June 6, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
DOB
Why Soriano did NOT pitch in the 9th???? resting or is he hurt again..
By tbo
June 6, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
Bobby Cox has GOT to be the biggest friggin idiot I have ever seen. But, no. It must be Schuerholtz and Wren for keeping the old fart around. Something has got to change. This has got to be the biggest choke in baseball.
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
Someone needs to throw a water cooler at a locker or something.
I mean, these guys are full grown men. Stop playing like little league pansies.
By Larvell Blanks
June 6, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this
I’ve always said, it’s not the runs you give up that hurt you, it’s the runs you give up AFTER THAT. Rest assured, if you give up one run in a tie game, and think it’s over, and then you give up another one, it’s that second run that will kill you.
Of course, I have no doubt that, if the Braves had given up only one run in the 10th, they wouldn’t have scored any in the bottom.
By supa
June 6, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this
Of all the heart-wrenching defeats this team has suffered over the years…this one has to be in the Top 5.
UNBELIEVABLE.
By BravesDave
June 6, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this
Can people stop saying that Francoeur plays good defense??? Please??? That is a myth. He won a GG last season because he threw out a lot of runners. Fact is, he does not get to balls that other RF get to.
Just stop.
I wonder if Chipper still feels that calling other clowns out in the clubhouse is not worth it?
By BravesFaninOregon
June 6, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this
Freakin’ A-Cost-us!!!
By BravesFanChris23
June 6, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this
rolltideface
Your 10:54 PM post….
I’m in Pensacola so I had to pay (mlbtv.com) to watch that! Seriously- he should be ashamed of himself.
I live in Pensacola as well, which part if you don’t mind me asking?
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this
That was not the type of game you wanted to start a series. And this isn’t going to be the type of home series you want right before a 10 game road trip. I really wish I had something to do tonight and not have to sit here and watch this game. I mean, they really f*** up that one. They aren’t ready to win yet. Chipper is getting on base at a 500 clip and they are 2 games over .500. It’s sad really.
By uga-brave
June 6, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this
victorino has a hose FRANCOEUR has a nose.
sans brian mccaann all the so called HOME GROWN BRAVES SUCK.
sorry all you francouer defenders, time has come to admit he is somewhat below average.
look kj should of caught that ball, no doubt.
still there is no excuse (from the cockiest man alive) to walk two straight batters in the 9th with two outs.
IS IT NOW OBVIOUS THAT BOBBY HAS INFERIOR baseball players.
i did not say talent, but winners.
By chrisklob
June 6, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this
The Braves clubhouse must smell like a barnyard right now. It’s full of goats after tonight’s debacle.
By Interested Observer
June 6, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this
Acosta pitched well earlier this year. He’s clearly been overused and is not sharp right now. There’s no need to cut him but he needs to be rested so he can get his stuff back. Unfortunately, our coaching staff isn’t able to see that.
Does anybody know what Phil Stockman looks like? I wonder if Bobby even realizes he’s on the roster.
By Austin
June 6, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
This game is bullsh!t. Jeff Francoeur is a bum. Bobby Cox is a bum.
Dan in NJ Your absolutely right with the way Bobby has used Stockman he might not make it a week before his arm gives out. F* Bobby Cox. Where the hell was our hottest pitcher Soriano?
F* Francoeur too. He is Andruw without the power. He is a complete bum. I would rather have my mom hit with the game on the line than him.
Their was a good fucking crowd out to see the game tonight and they end of looking like the fcking bad news bears. Cant catch a damn pop up. Obviously his @ss doesn’t need to be in the major leagues.
This is nothing but a mediocre team that is just good enough to pull your heart out, stomp on it, then feed it to dogs every night.
Fck Bobby Cox. Fck Jeff Francoeur.
This makes me wanna puke.
By chipdip
June 6, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
manny sucks and kelly blows.
By brian
June 6, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this
they need a players only meeting after that game to get their head out of their as$#s. Way too many mistakes. U Know Who needs to call the meeting and take charge of these young players. Still 2 to go versus the Phillies. Forget about tonight, we need to take those 2
By Efrim
June 6, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this
DOB
You out there man? I know you aren’t a Braves fan, but have you ever seen anything like this? Or even heard of anything like this? It’s a talented team that has a plus 51 run differential and is 32-30, but honestly, can you see this team winning meaningful September games?
By jed
June 6, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this
victorino makes a perfect throw to get a fast runner at the plate and save a win for the phils. meanwhile, kelly johnson cant catch a pop fly. they find ways to win; we find ways to lose. doesnt bode well.
By carl
June 6, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
ok Cox defenders:
honestly, just think back on all the games he’s cost because of bullpen management or pure idiotic decisions.
just tonight:
-batting francoueur 5th (9 LOB) -the failed squeeze play (when this team has demostrated repeatedly that it can’t put down a bunt; how many have failed so far this season) -bringing in Boyer instead of leaving Ohman in (Ohman had thrown just 9 pitches) -bringing in acosta to pitch when he’s been horrible his last 4 appearances
Well sure, many of the teams problems are the players fault (lack of timely hitting, subpar defense, lack of fundamentals), but anyone can notice at least a couple of questionable decisions daily with Cox.
By GT80
June 6, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
BravesFanChris, if Cox hadn’t strayed from the right-left matchup in the 9th and taken Boyer out the game might not get to the catch by Kelly. Cox has as much blame for this game as Escobar, Kelly, Boyer, Acosta, basically the entire team other than Hudson, Chipper and Tex.
By faninFaytown
June 6, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
hudson threw a hell of a game and then even when he got in a jam at the end we look like a baseball team and hold them. then we look that bad the last inning? thats incredible. i bet chipper would give up a few points on that BA if it meant we stopped with this bipolar s**
By Murphy
June 6, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
I agree with whoever said someone should be throwing things in that clubhouse tonight. Something!
By Murphy
June 6, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
I agree with whoever said someone should be throwing things in that clubhouse tonight. Something!
By Coach Smith
June 6, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this
Time to put KJ in LF and INFANTE/PRADO at 2nd…..
PhilliesFan
You can’t be serious…Somehow I dont see a 4 game lead with 100 to play as Insurmountable….
I wouldn’t talk too much my friend..
The Phillies DID NOT WIN this game…the Braves LOST IT…..
They had to have the Braves play their worst game of the year to eak out an extra innings win….
Braves need to take the next 2 then it is not that big a deal
By Gary
June 6, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this
If I was Bobby Cox and the coaching staff, tomorrow I would start off with some BP, then the gauntlet begins. EVERYONE, and I mean EVERYONE takes infield until they are black and blue. Grounders, pop ups, and turning double plays. Then once that is done, time for some situational baserunning. Run their arses until they can’t take it anymore. Then get dressed and go play. No team meetings, not tearing up the locker room. Also, tomorrow I foresee Johnson and Frenchy being benched, not given a night off, but benched for the rest of the series. Time to make some examples out of those not pulling their weight.
By Will
June 6, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this
Here come all the Bobby Cox defenders. I absolutely understand Kelly Johnson catches that and its game over, but that wasnt the only play in tonights game. Suicide squeeze was a tad questionable but i let it go, the sac bunt voluntarily getting chipper walked crap was just stupid as was taking out Will Ohman for a righty righty match up against Burrell. I know Ohman is not a closer but they just keep doing the closer by committee and Ohman is never of part of the committee and he is pitching as well as anyone right now. I blame Bobby Cox in genearl not just cause of this game. His teams lack of ability to execute the simple things like getting bunts down is just sickening. To top it off he pretty much conceded the game when he brought Acosta in in the 10th. If Frenchy bats 5th again anytime soon there is no excuse for that.
By GT
June 6, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this
Witness the contrast between two teams heading in opposite directions. To anyone who ever believed this Braves team was a postseason contender, tonight is why they are nothing more than a .500 team. -This year and until they make significant changes organization-wide. Who plays with smarts and patience, finds ways to win, manages with common sense instead of nostalgia? Here’s a hint: they don’t have tomohawks on their jerseys. Because Blaine-F*ing-Boyer can’t distinguish the strike zone from the other 40 billion cubic feet of atmosphere that occupy 755 Aaron Drive, everyone on this blog gets to read more of my eloquent words.
By Thor
June 6, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
You Bobby haters are unbelievable. i don’t profess to like every one of bobby’s decisions (pitching Acosta wasn’t a brilliant move), but putting this one on his shoulders is silly.
KJ drops a little league pop up, Frenchy strands 40 runners (although he doesn’t belong in the 5 hole), Yunel makes a boneheaded baserunning error, and Boyer walks two in the ninth.
None of these are Bobby’s fault, yet some of you just want to blame Bobby for global warming.
How about hold the players accountable sometimes.
By Austin
June 6, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
I hope they bring in Acosta to do something useful tomorrow. Drill Victirino. He looked more like a college softball player than an MLB player.
By JEB
June 6, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this
Kelly catches that ball in the 9th and we WIPE OUT the last 45 - 50 blogs!
All these thoughts, all of this anger brought on by one man and one act - what power!!
By Cousin Diaz
June 6, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this
This reminds me of that loss to the Mariners last season, the beginning of the the end for Biggie Bob Wickie and the Braves contention.
So many ways these Braves find to fumble away a victory, it is effing maddening. It must be killing Chipper. 15 years of winning games, improbable wins like this, and now three years of bad Karma. Perhaps the Braves should hire Earl as a special consultant?
I like to listen to the other team’s radio broadcast on mlb.mlb.com, mainly because I don’t care for the laconic indifference of whoever the Bravos trot out (Skip, Chip, Don, Et al) and because there are hilarious regional commercials on those enemy broadcasts, like Strohman’s bakery tonight with the Phils. I have never heard such a belligerent broadcast tandem as the called the game on WPHT. When Tex got HBP, I think it put two and the winning run to the plate, these guys actually speculated on whether it was intentional. Later, when somebody (I think Gregor) got a running bunt hit, one of those dudes said, in all seriousness, “the next time (so-and-so) faces (so-and-so) I expect (so-and-so) will find a pitch up under his ribs.” DOB, I wonder if you know the Phillies network radio broadcast duo, and are they, like, typical Philadelphians? The jerky, violent, vitriolic phil fans?
By FloridaBrave
June 6, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this
This game was devastating.
Kelly cost us the game. I love Kelly, but he cost us the game. Before you call for Kelly’s head however, remember he’s still one of the better 2B in the league and we don’t have anyone close to being able to replace him.(Spare me the Infante talk)
…On a postive note, props to him for keeping his head up afterwards and throwing the guy out at home while hitting a double in the 9th. If our four and five hitters do their job, we forget his error.
If Kelly catches the ball in the 9th, we win and everything else is forgiven. But Jeff Francoeur left 9 men on base.
Ring was brought in to get the lefties out. If he did his job the game would be tied.
Norton didn’t do his job either with runners on 1st and 3rd and 1 out.
Acosta has been ineffective recently and should have never been used. If there’s anything to put on Cox, that’s it…but Cox didn’t lose this game, the players did. Someone brought up a good point before, this team just doesn’t believe it can win 1-run games. They get tight and they choke.
It’s going to take a lot of intestinal fortitude to overcome this loss.
Not to be doom and gloom, but we’re not a playoff team until we win close games. People have said our luck will change and how it’s still early…but the thing is, it’s not early. We have to start winning 1-run games NOW
By Will
June 6, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
I know it wont happen but i wish somebody would throw Kelly Johnson under the bus after that BS! My sunday softball team catches that pop up after a 6 pack!!
By braves70
June 6, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
RIP Braves 2008. Date of Death 06-06-08. Luckily the Cubs were on TV so I got to ditch the final inning of this freak show in Atlanta. Bobby Cox is as senile now as Connie Mack was in his final days running the Philadelphia A’s.
By A-ville Ranger
June 6, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this
Bobby Cox is not a loser or stupid.He is a hall of fame manager,one of the best ever.That said, this team needs new blood leading it.It is just painfully clear they are in a rut, repeating the same season going on tree years now.I don’t want him fired,I do hope he decides it’s time to move on.
By Michael
June 6, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this
Say what you want, I don’t really care. But I’m just wondering - had KJ caught that ball, would all of you be calling Bobby Cox a bum? You “fans” are pathetic. It’s baseball, s** happens. No wonder people say Atlanta has the worst fans. You sound like a bunch of LAers. It’s one thing to accurately say that the Braves played badly, but to say that a player, coach, or manager is bad because of one game is a joke. There’s a reason that every other manager and GM in baseball would say that Bobby Cox is one of the top managers in baseball. But I guess people on this vent have a better knowledge of the game. What a joke.
By Austin
June 6, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
DOB
I think you should run a Brett Myers in reverse and ask Jeff Francoeur is a retard, he sure plays like one. F*** it I dont even care anymore. F*** Cox and F*** Francoeur. The s** is pathetic. The entire team is a pile of s**. F*** the organization. F*** the team. Trade Francoeur’s a* now.
By waterst
June 6, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
DOB: I have been a Braves partial season ticket holder since ‘91. What is the deal with them NOT being able to play fundamental baseball. They can’t move runners over, can’t lay down bunts, etc. What the hell is the deal. I just don’t get it and am very unhappy!!
By Francisco Cabrera
June 6, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
PhillieFan - Go F*ck Yourself
By Kev
June 6, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
Kelly Johnson marvelous, Gold Glove play
By PJ
June 6, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this
That does it for me. I’ll continue to watch for entertainment purposes but won’t get worked up about it anymore. The 2008 edition of the Braves showed what they were made of tonight for all the world to see. 3 guys from the ‘05 “Baby Braves” screwed up royally. Boyer, Francouer, and Johnson. Feel sorry for the veterans when you have the “Baby Braves” to soil your team.
By Coach Smith
June 6, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
Austin…I agree
VICTORINO needs to be DRILLED with a pitch Tomorrow
His antics in the top and bottom of the 10th were way too much…
They need a team meeting and air things out..they should be undefeated on this homestand right now
I still say the Phillies DO NOT have the PITCHING to carry them to a division title
Hitting runs too hot and cold to depend on it alone
By Robert
June 6, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
Just watched the worst played game I have ever seen. All season the Braves lose one run games for two simple reasons. Lack of good management and coaching. And “Frencie” is the most overrated player in franchise history. He turned down McCann money? McCann is worth twice as much as him. I love McCann but can’t he slim down and train to run faster than an old woman with one leg? Thank you Chipper! Thank god you are a veteran and don’t require coaching or you would not be hitting 400. Retire Bobby! You and I have the same birthday and name, but I would know to step down.
By N8
June 6, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this
Not to make light of the Braves injuries (because Smoltz is tougher than I could ever imagine being).
But where are all of those people that were saying “when we get Smoltz, Soriano and Gonzo back”, at these days.
Smoltz: Lost for the year (maybe forever)
Soriano: Apparently he’s gonna NOT be able to pitch more than 2-3 days a week (as I predicted).
Gonzalez: If you guys are expecting anything more than what Soriano has to offer, I’m afraid y’all are gonna be disappointed until 2009.
Until Soriano can go EVERY TIME Bobby needs him, he’s gonna hurt the team, more than help it, when taking into consideration the other arms in the pen.
Just my opinion.
Just like last year when there wasn’t a pitcher to be had, and JS went out and got Tex (next best thing to more pitching was adding a big bat), I think that might be the way to go.
Without giving up the farm, the only thing we’re gonna get is Maddux. He would help, but it wouldn’t be enough.
I’m not even sure there is a OF out there to be had, that’s “available” and any better than what we’ve got.
But I can tell you this much.
I’m ready for a game where our starting outfielders are Anderson, Blanco, and Infante (until Kotsay comes back).
I’m sick of Jeff costing us games. Period. Unfortunately, there isn’t a CHANCE IN HELL of that happening.
By Bob
June 6, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this
Dump Cox!!!
All this terrible playing… leaving millions of base runners on base every game, stupid base-running errors, dropping easy pop ups, and so on and so on… does anyone think that its NOT the fault of the so-called “Hall of Fame” manager Bobby Cox? That man has lost more games that should have been easily won than any manager in history. All this nonsense of his about endless pitching changes just to get the right “match up,” suicide squeezes that don’t have a chance in hell of working, never bunting but always expecting the big home run to win every game… and I could go on forever. Let’s face it Braves’ fans, Bobby Cox is the manager who won only one World seruies after his team won 14 straight division titles. That alone is testament to his complete inability to manage and motivate. Its time that idiot of a manager do the right thing and step down so Atlanta baseball can get a real manager. Cox Sux!!!
By Will
June 6, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this
for “bobby Haters” such as myself games like tonight just bring out years and years of frustration with that guy. he won one world series title and had the best team at least 5 times. You can trace this BS all the way back to 1991 getting shutout in game 7, bobby cox teams just dont get it done when it matters. If not for Dave Justice and Tommy Glavine they wouldnt even have one. they were trying hard to blow that series but glav and justice wouldnt let them.
By A-ville Ranger
June 6, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this
Gary, So you’d work Chipper tomorrow till he’s black and blue…you’re fired.
By jukeandjive
June 6, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this
This team needs a shot of BRUUUUUUUUCE-like energy. With DOB reporting on Kotsay’s back, don’t be shocked to see Schaeffer here sooner rather than later. I saw him last night and he looked good. He’s got spunk and this team needs some of that. I’ll be going to his game tomorrow night as well. I’ll let you guys know how he does.
I like Blanco, but he doesn’t seem near as fast as the announcers make him out to be. By the way, no ones talking about his short lead at second. With 2 outs you’ve got to get as big a lead as you can to make sure that doesn’t happen.
By chrisklob
June 6, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith
Braves need to take the next 2 then it is not that big a deal
I respectfully disagree with you here. This loss tonight is a HUGE deal. It is a snapshot of just about everything that has gone wrong for this team so far. Let’s face it, these guys don’t play good fundamental baseball. This team has NO shot of winning squat in the post-season playing this way.
The only good that can come out of this game is if someone snaps their foot off in the arses of all the guys that sucked tonight (I’d list them but there are too many) and motivates these people to play MAJOR LEAGUE BALL, not beer league softball.
They can win the next two and I’m still going to be ticked off about this series because of the way they went about losing this game.
By uga-brave
June 6, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
jeb,
MY POINT EXACTLY AND CREDIT TO YOU FOR REALIZING IT.
“if kelly catches that ball we probably wipe out 50 or so of these blogs”
By Random
June 6, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this
Shamus Thacker —
Are you serious here?!?!?
Those are pretty flamin’ reckless accusations, don’t you think?
By carl
June 6, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this
Thor, you just defeated your own argument;
francine had no business hitting 5th; Cox’s decision;
bringing Boyer in was unnecessary when Ohman has been pitching masterfully; Cox’s decision
Acosta also shouldn’t have been pitching; that was basically conceding the game; Cox’s decision
To say Cox has no fault in this loss is ludicrous.
BTW, I’ve loved Crabby Bill’s 11pm post, as well as the many jokes regarding how much Stockman has pitched ;)
I swear I’m gonna lol so hard if Morton is turned into a long relief man or goes through what Stockman has…
By Brad
June 6, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this
You won’t find a bigger Braves fan than me, but this Victorino bashing for showing emotion is a joke. The Phillies realize how important of a win this was. I see no problem with that. If we somehow would have found a way to win this game, the Braves would have done the exact same thing.
Well, everybody but Acosta. He probably bolted after getting the hook.
By N8
June 6, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this
Thor
“You Bobby haters are unbelievable. i don’t profess to like every one of bobby’s decisions (pitching Acosta wasn’t a brilliant move), but putting this one on his shoulders is silly.”
There’s “1”.
“…Frenchy strands 40 runners (although he doesn’t belong in the 5 hole)”
There’s “2”.
“…and Boyer walks two in the ninth.”
Boyer should not have been left in to walk the 2nd guy.
“None of these are Bobby’s fault, yet some of you just want to blame Bobby for global warming.”
What kind of vehicle does he drive? I bet it’s NOT a hybrid. LOL!
“How about hold the players accountable sometimes.”
There’s “3”.
You’ve just mentioned 3 things wrong with Bobby, in a post wondering why people rag on Bobby.
By definition…..ironic.
By faninFaytown
June 6, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this
On a positive note for kelly, the dp when escobar dove back up the middle and flipped to him to start the dp to get out of the inning, kelly made one hell of a turn imo
By H-Ram
June 6, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this
DOB
How is the mood in the clubhouse??..anybody crying(i.e KJ) saying WHY WHY WHY???
By Gary
June 6, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this
Michael, I am not one of the Bobby blamers here. He had nothing to do with the Braves losing tonight. However I will throw Kelly Johnson under the bus and run over him. His defense is atrocious. He boots easy grounders, makes backhand blunders, looks lost at times a la Adam LaRoche, and then this. His defense is bad and I am not buying this one of the best 2B crap. He is not even one of the best AA 2B. Little Leaguers can field better than he can. Sheesh!
By Will
June 6, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
Michael 11:40 PM, You dont get it at all. The Cox haters have so much built up frustration over the years its just disgusting. I am the only braves fan in my entire group of friends and they all blow me crap constantly about Cox being a great manager. Its a delusion that many Braves fans wanna hold on to. He is a players manager, he is great at leading the team through the grind of a season, but as far as in-game decision making he is brutal. His philosophies are crap. I do not knock Cox for getting the Braves to the playoffs every year but it is just inexcusable how they exited. He could turn a 100 win team into a playoff whipping boy. And this has happened time and time again.
By BravesFanChris23
June 6, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
GT80
Your 11:31 PM post….
No, Cox doesn’t deserve any blame really, well, except for Acosta. However, HAD KELLY NOT DROPPED THE BALL the game would’ve been over.
I’m not condemning Kelly for the error at all, everyone is human and makes mistakes. However, blaming others when the one who could’ve ended the game and didn’t because of a mistake that was so simple not to make is absurd.
I’m not saying Cox doesn’t deserve a bit of flack, he did make a mistake in Acosta. However, that mistake wouldn’t had happened had Kelly caught the ball, its that simple.
Tonight’s loss isn’t Cox’s fault, its the players. I’ve seen many say that managers need to be held accountable, well, that’s all Cox gets from internet backseat bench coaches and that’s blame. Sure, when the situation warrants it, its fine, but Bobby isn’t that far gone like Bobby haters go on about.
When the situations warrant criticism for the manager, then yes, the manager is held accountable. However, its a two way street. Players need to be held accountable as well and tonight, the players lost it, not Bobby.
By JEB
June 6, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
N8 I’ve got to say I agree with your 11:44 post! Don’t know that taking Frenchy out of the line up on a regular basis would be a good thing, but he needs to sit down for awhile and get some things in his head straightened out! Or at least pull back and work in the cages awhile. The league is reading his book and making Frenchy read it too - he just won’t change his side of the story!
Anderson and Blanco have got to be in there. Their speed would offset power if they can get on base.
By Coach Smith
June 7, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this
chrisklob
I know what you are saying…
my point is more in that in the grand scheme of things if you win 2 outta 3 here…you leave town with 98 games to play and 2 back…
Just win series…would it have been better to win tonight, lose tommorrow, and win Sunday?
It’s just the way they lost that was so brutally painful
Phillies don’t have the pitching to sustain this for a season..
does anyone else have a problem with the way Victorino celebrated in the top and bottom of the 10th?
By Mike R
June 7, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this
Time to pull the plug on the Johnson move to second. I’ve been following the Braves since 1969, (yes I’m old). He is the worst Braves defensive 2nd baseman to play on a regular basis in all that time. Maybe he could play first once Tex is gone. The Tex trade was an obvious mistake, (bet the Rangers would not reverse that trade even if Tex was signed to a long term deal.) He is NOT a clutch hitter, like striking out in the 9th with 1 out and the winning run on 2nd. Well Johnson and Tex wasted the Braves ace in game 1 so it looks like a Philles sweep and a 6 1/2 game deficit.
By Cousin Diaz
June 7, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this
Where are all you nay-saying wankers when the Braves take three of four from the Marlins? I know you are disappointed, but seriously, are you all nine years old? Because you sound like nine year olds. KJ is third on the team in offense. Manny filled in admirably at closer for three weeks. Frenchy may be Andruw part duex but did we not love Andruw? Don’t be haters until the season is lost- and that’s at least 30 games from now.
Our boys have flaws, no doubt. But they also have a lot of talent and a nice mix of experienced money-men and young up and comers- anyone remember Yunel’s outrageous start of the double play that erased a bases-loaded one out in the seventh to preserve the lead tonight? Things will even out. They may not be a division winner yet but they are surely a contender for the wild-card, even now, and if the starting pitching can hold out they may have enough to go all the way. The season is young, still. A loss like this is not the end of the world unless you make it so.
By Will
June 7, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this
Uga-Brave, You dont get it either. Cox haters dont come out and just freak out after one game. This is a body of work of absolute BS decision making especially the last few years. If Boyer doesnt get into that jam then Johnson never drops the pop up and who brought Boyer in to relieve?? As i said earlier if the Braves are gonna do closer by committee and Will Ohman is not part of that committee 95% of the time then thats another problem i have with Bobby Cox. Doesnt matter who gets you to the 9th if you have nobody to shut the door.
By Novice Ned
June 7, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this
Looks like the Braves drafted a regular ‘ole rocket scientist yesterday. That DeVall kid was thrilled to see Smoltz playing either chess or backgammon. Hmm, are there any common pieces in those games? Maybe dude only does the NYT Crossword puzzle and has only heard of those games in passing.
It was good to see Hudson pitch a very good game in a pressure situation (and it crazy hot conditions). Now how an AARP member limits this team to a McCann homer is beyond puzzling.
By rupert
June 7, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this
tough loss, we are about to see what this team is made of… maybe the fact that they have been playing so “loosely” and not great baseball, while some on this homestand, maybe this will shock them into playing all out and eliminate the mistakes, but you never know…
By jukeandjive
June 7, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this
I hope there was a players only meeting. Cause Chipper or someone needs to lay down the law. Is Terry Pendleton overated or what? Look the Pistons fired Flip for not having the respect of his team. I think TP should be fired because he obviously can’t get through to his hitters. Look at AJ, Frenchy, Tex, and others who in the past make NO adjustments. The reason the Red Sox will win again this year is that they’re hitting coach keeps his hitters applying pressure on the pitchers not the other way around. They’re not trying to figure out how to get a hit. They’re making the pitcher figure out how to get an out. Its MENTAL. This team has talent, but their brains are tucked in the PANTIES. GRANNY PANTIES.
Please someone stop me. I’M P**!!!!!!!!!!
By mr baseball
June 7, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this
Now that everyone has gone nucular on our favorite team after tonight’s hard to believe loss, a few words of calm reflection will be way out of place on here.
What Kelly Johnson did with his glove was astonishingly amateurish, but he did have the presence of mind to throw Feliz out at the plate on the play and put the team in position to win the game in the bottom of the inning with his sharp double. He deserves the lion’s share of the responsibility of the loss, but he did not shrink from his job after his ridiculous screw-up.
Those of you who are including Boyer in your Braves bashing are barking up the wrong tree. He got the one batter he needed most to get out, pitched carefully to 2 guys who had the ability to hit the ball out of the park and got Coste to hit a weak popup. HE DID HIS JOB. In that situation, there are a lot worse things than walks. Exhibit A: Manny Acosta.
Francouer deservedly gets a good portion of the blame, but he did rip one off Seanez with the bases loaded. Just because he hit it right at Burrell ain’t his fault. But his last AB against Gordon reeked. Don’t know if it’s mechanical, mental or what, but he is just missing a whole lot of pitches he used to drive.
I realize most people’s memories here don’t go back as far as yesterday, but he has been a great clutch hitter for just about all of his short career, and has some huge hits already this season. He doesn’t deserve the scathing quality of the criticism he’s receiving, but trying to reason with irate sports fans after a loss like this is pretty much a hopeless endeavor.
The guy is going through a rough patch. Considering what he’s done to this point in a Braves’ uniform, you might want to cut him some slack.
Tex is another story. He’s done OK (barely) as Chipper’s protector in the batting order, but OK don’t cut it. The guy is paid to be one of the premier run-producers in the game, and he is failing a lot more than he should with the game on the line.
If Cox wants to shake things up a little, something we all know is as likely as Bob Barr winning the Presidency, he could do worse than moving McCann into the cleanup spot and tell Tex when he starts driving in runs the way a cleanup hitter is supposed to, he’ll go back to hitting 4th. Ain’t gonna happen, I know.
Would add some more digs at our esteemed leader in the dugout, but have been there and done that.
The next 2 games will reveal a lot about this team’s psyche, even if Mr. O’Brien doesn’t think this series is that big a deal.
By Thor
June 7, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
N8 and Carl,
If KJ catches it, Cox wins.
If Yunel tags, Cox wins.
If Frenchy drive in 1 or 9, Cox wins.
Cox may be the cause of some loses in the past this isn’t one of them. As soon as the Braves lose, you guys put one your “Bobby Cox sux” glasses and blame him for everything that happened in the game.
All I am saying is put this one on the players. the game could have been won four or five times.
By A-ville Ranger
June 7, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
Michael, Ifs and buts,candies and nuts.If they had found a way to win some of the one run games.Not just tonight…..what is the record 2-18 or something like that in one run games.The team went 15 years winning most of these close games,that wasn’t luck and neither is this.
By monty
June 7, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
Kotsay deal isn’t going to work out anf that’s a shame he looks like a heck of a ball player when healthy, Smolts gone, Soriano is either having arm trouble or he just can’t go back to back, yet. Blanco can’t hit the broad side of a barn on his throws to the infield, Frnchy isn’t contributing when it counts but the statisticians will tell you he’s great with runners in scoring position and 2 outs. THE only problem is he can’t hit any other time when it matters. Eunell makes a great play and gives it right back with a bonehead play. What the heck was Ohman doing on a delayed attempt for second? This team goes into self destruct mode late and close. I like many others can’t sit for three hours any longer knowing this kind of crap is going to happen, LIfe is too short to spend it ticked off every other night.
By mo
June 7, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this
And at some point within the next few days, some fool on here will say that Frenchy needs to be signed long term.
I don’t get why people like Jeff so much. He is an average right fielder who is probably the most overrated player in the National League.
He wants how much money???
See if we can get Matt Cain for him. We’ll even throw in a top tier prospect. Francouer and Hanson for Cain. How about it Braves fans????
By princetonbrave
June 7, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this
I’m gonna email Frank Wren with a list of some of my favorite motivational speakers to bring in to the clubhouse.
By Jerald Holcombe
June 7, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this
It’s amazing how many different ways there are to shoot yourself in the foot. It’s more amazing that the Braves seem so hell bent to invent new ones. I mean, couldn’t you tell in the first inning that things weren’t gonna go well? How many times does Tex and Francoeur have to butcher chances to drive in runs before they actually look p** about it? I don’t know how, but I watched that pop up and I saw Johnson tense up like he was about to catch an anvil and I thought, “uh oh”. He just looked uncomfortable. Is it wrong for me to be glad that Blanco was sent home on such a sharply hit ball that was fielded in short center on one hop? If it had been an earlier inning, he would have been held up. Wouldn’t it have been appropriate for Johnson to come to the plate with runners at the corners and a chance to redeem himself? Of course, he would have went down on strikes, but it would have been humorous to watch him flail about. I hope that the team loses a lot of sleep tonight, with the exception of Chipper and McCann. They’ve done all they could.
By Thor
June 7, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this
Will,
you blame Bobby Cox for bringing in Boyer? He had just struck out the guy before and was looking good. Had bobby left Ohman in and he’d given up a bomb, you’d be b*** saying Cox should have taken him out.
What is frustrating is this mentality that every loss is on the manager, yet when they win it is “good job, players.”
BravesFanChris23 - good post @11:57. When Cox warrants criticism, he should hear it. This game, however, is not one of them.
By chase
June 7, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this
Can’t believe that Cox put that sorry Josh Anderson in and he got a hit, moved to third on heads up play and scored…just can’t believe he played Josh. Oh, where is Stockman? Some players are just not members of the good old boys club. Got to love that Alzheimer Bobby calling the shots. * I believe you make your on luck and the Braves stink.*
By uga-brave
June 7, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this
well at least the idiots come out at night.
i have just about had it with all you cox bashers.
the braves scored 2 runs courtesy of a homerun.
to pin this lose on cox is, about what i expect from morons.
there are more here then i could of ever imagined.
i have been critical of two players on this site for two years.
one is chuck n duck, the other is the most over hyped player in franchise history.
the former wont be back, the latter we are stuck with.
french fry left 9 PLAYERS ON BASE TONIGHT.
you have to try to do that.
By Will
June 7, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this
Cousin Diaz, I for one was no “nay-saying wanker” after the marlins series. All I have said all year after home success is get some wins on the road and it never happens. Not to mention that fla series should have been a 4 game sweep not 3 out of 4. The Braves once again are not a playoff team and that is okay, you cant make the playoffs every year. This team does not have “it” anymore. Anybody can say oh they are only 4 games out with x-amount to play, but 6 weeks from now people gonna be saying oh they only 5 out with 75 to play. And 6 weeks after that its gonna be the same BS. I hate it and i wish they were better but i know a .500 team when i see it and we are watching one play every night.
By BravesFanChris23
June 7, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this
Before anyone mentions I contradicted myself, I’ll explain….
When I said….
No, Cox doesn’t deserve any blame really, well, except for Acosta.
Then…
I’m not saying Cox doesn’t deserve a bit of flack, he did make a mistake in Acosta. However, that mistake wouldn’t had happened had Kelly caught the ball, its that simple.
I meant….
Cox doesn’t deserve any blame for losing the game, when he did play some smart ball, just didn’t work out in his favor. The only thing really to blame him for was bringing in Acosta. However, that would’ve been avoided had Kelly caught the ball.
As far as the taking out Ohman for Boyer and leaving him in instead of brining Royce Ring in, its simple….
If they would’ve brought Royce Ring in, they would’ve pinched hit a right hand hitter for Jenkins (as the Phillies announcers said Phillies had some right hand hitters ready). Since that didn’t happen, its just speculation to what would have happened either way.
So like it or not, leaving Boyer in was a smart, but gutsy/bold move. What happened? Two men got on base, but there was two outs.
Then comes the out that should have been caught. Since it wasn’t, it was all messed up from there. Yes, Tex/Francoeur gets blame for not hitting like they should have, but….
Like it or not, THAT SITUATION WOULDN’T HAVE HAPPENED IF KELLY CAUGHT IT, LIKE HE SHOULD HAVE.
So therefore, my assessment is simple, while tonight wasn’t a great game played by Braves, the FACT is that when McCann hit the two run home run and Hudson/Ohman held the game to 2-1 in the 9th, the mess ups early in the game become moot. Yes, in hindsight the mess ups earlier in the game did keep them from winning. However, its goes back to that pesky little fact I keep saying over and over….
The point of Kelly dropping the ball. There were two outs BRAVES HAD THE LEAD, game should have been over.
Again, I’m not condemning Kelly nor shying away from criticizing the play of Braves tonight, but the point is to blame Cox like its solely his fault when the game should have ended in top of the 9th is absolutely absurd.
I’m not a Bobby Cox lover or defender to no ends, but the hate is beyond pathetic.
By Edward
June 7, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this
This teams doesnt have enough fire…they NEED that type of player/coach..like Carlos Zambrano type, or in the NBA Rasheed Wallace or Ozzie Guillen…this team will fade soon(sooner than others here MAY THINK) if they keep this up…
By carl
June 7, 2008 12:23 AM | Link to this
I’m not bashing Cox alone, Thor, I mentioned the players responsability in my first post.
It’s just that Cox should know better than to pitch Acosta, and if anyone but francoeur bats 5th, they probably have at least an RBI to show for it.
Sure it’s francine’s and acosta’s fault for not getting it done but Bobby’s not helping either
By Austin
June 7, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this
Jeff Francoeur should now be called “Francine” on this blog.
By Dan in NJ
June 7, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this
Hey Micheal,11.40
Guess what? KJ didnt make the catch(sh!t happens). So that means Cox needs to manage a late tie game.
As for GM’s all over… They don’t watch ever game , every move , day in day out.
It’s not “just” one game. its plenty of games so far.
Question. Does R.Howard, or Chase Utley(and many others) get bounced around in the lineup cause of lefty righty matchups??? A. NO Point is Cox lives and dies by that. Whether its lineups or relievers. So WHY must he switch frenchy and Mc cann(and others) around so much? Frenchy is killing us right NOW. but yet bats him 5th. SAME as last year with A.Jones(batting cleanup). Its just DUMB.
Seems like Cox NEED to use at least 5 arms A night… is like a crackheads NEED for a fix. Its a must regardless if a guy like Ohman only used 9 pitches. He’s gotta kill 3 more arms in the pen to get his fix.
one more question. If COX has NO plans on using Stockman, Why not send him back down and bring up a bat.? Stockman can use some work, and an extra bat “might” help the Braves.
By carl
June 7, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this
Wow at all the Cox defenders here; it’s as if he impregnated your mothers, left you to be raised as b*******, yet you somehow share an unspeakable bond with him that won’t let you speak ill nor let others badmouth him.
Please let me know of what foundation I can donate money to combat this terrible disease
By Thor
June 7, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this
Carl,
Point taken. I agree, there are some decisions that BC makes, that leave you scratching your head and he doesn’t help the matter - soemtimes.
This game, in my opinion, was not BC’s fault.
By N8
June 7, 2008 12:34 AM | Link to this
Thor
“If KJ catches it, Cox wins.”
Yes. Can’t argue.
“If Yunel tags, Cox wins.”
I still think he get’s thrown out. But that’s up for debate.
“If Frenchy drive in 1 or 9, Cox wins.”
As long as Cox continues to put him in the 5 hole, we’ll keep having this discussion, game after game, after game, after game.
“Cox may be the cause of some loses in the past this isn’t one of them. As soon as the Braves lose, you guys put one your “Bobby Cox sux” glasses and blame him for everything that happened in the game.”
I really wasn’t putting this one on Cox. In fact, for the first time in a long time, I DIDN’T blame him, and posted just that, before my response to you.
Which is EXACTLY what it was. You made a post, saying how everybody needs to back off Bobby, yet pointed out two things that DIRECTLY fall on Cox’s shoulders (bringing in Acosta and putting Frenchy in the 5 hole).
To end your post, you stated that the players must be held accountable at times as well. One could only hope that some day, Cox WILL hold his players accountable.
“All I am saying is put this one on the players. the game could have been won four or five times.”
Totally agree with you.
But at some point, the lack of discipline at the plate, on the base-paths, and on defense, are a direct reflection in the coaching, or do you disagree?
This whole team is way too laid back. I wanna see somebody playing like their lively-hood relies on it. Like their job depends on it.
Not like if they mess up (and leave 9 guys on base), that they KNOW their name will STILL be on the lineup card the next day.
If Manuel can pull Jimmy Rollins out of a game for not hustling (and Rollins publicly had NO PROBLEM with it), then surely Jeff can be pinch-hit for with the game on the line, when he repeatedly doesn’t come through, right?
I’m not saying that the PH would come through. But if there was even REMOTELY a chance in hell of him getting PH for, my guess is that Jeff would make whatever adjustments necessary to make sure that doesn’t happen.
Like you said. I just want the players to be accountable for their actions.
By CC Rider
June 7, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this
A Moment of Clarity: I, like all Braves fans, am upset with the loss of this and many recent games. We the fans get emotionally attached to the franchise and certain players, which blinds us to the teams shortcomings. First of all, our starting pitching has been great, but also has come up short on pitching deep into games. We have to give credit to Bobby and Roger for taking one All Star(Hudson), one aging veteran (Glavine) who is only good for 5 innings, a 22 year old rook(Jurjjens) who is starting to look like one the last 3 starts after trying to be the only one other than Hudson to go past 5 innings on a constitent basis, A refugee from the Mexican league (Campillo) whose starting to get hit the more people see and watch film of him and a rookie (Reyes) who has been up and down. No more Smotlz, never had Hudson, James failed to return from arm problems. Who among the fans would have put $100.00 on the table before the start of the season that all of this would take place and our starters would have the best ERA in baseball. NO ONE!! The bullpen has pitched well despite injuries and overuse. The hitters have done a better job of putting the ball in play, as we all wanted them to. NOW THE FLIP SIDE: I said it during the winter, Kelly Johnson is a good hitter, but he has no true position. Kelly was a poor outfielder when the Braves tried him there the first time he broke in as a Rookie. He is not a good defensive player and has already contributed directly to 3 losses due to his poor fielding. Mark Texiera is not Chipper. Jeff Franceour is not Brian McCann. Look at the Phillies and you see over and over again their top 4 Rollins, Vicorino, Utley and Howard coming through in the clutch. We have Escobar, Chipper and McCann that are consitent, but they are spilt up in the lineup. The Reality is this! Starting pitching will not continue at this level. The bullpen may get better if Soriano and Gonzalez can get all the way back to their former selves and Bobby finds the right guys to use to get to them ( NOTE: BOBBY has not manage late game situtions well this year and that is the reason we are last in baseball in saves!). The lineup is decent but not great. If Chipper and Brian hadn’t had a great first 60 games we would already be buried. Chipper will fall off a little, as will McCann and unless a trade is made quickly to get another solid bat with power in leftfield, the Braves will lose touch with the Phillies and struggle to stay in the wildcard race. In the immortal words of Brain Mcnamee, IT IS WHAT IT IS! and this year that is close but no cigar.
By Cousin Diaz
June 7, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this
For the record, I like Frenchy hitting in front of BMac, it gives him some protection and also, for the the record, French’s career BABIP is .290, right now he’s at .207 and need I remind you he’s striking out very little. He’s gettin the shaft in that regard. He’ll hit for average sooner rather than later. No doubt BMac is a better hitter, but he’s a catcher and don’t play everyday. Maybe we should move him to firstbase and let Salty catch? Ouh, oh yeah, sorry.
By Murphy
June 7, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this
Dan in NJ-great points on the line up shuffles. Seriously enough already! By the way, when does Tex pull out of this early year slump again?
By Will
June 7, 2008 12:40 AM | Link to this
Uga-Brave, You are so right i am so sorry for ever blaming Bobby Cox for anything. He is just a phenomanal manager and i expect nothing less the playoff apprearances the rest of his career. Thank god we signed him to an extension!! The prosperity will continue!
Chase, Do you understand that Josh Anderson has hardly seen the field til recently? people on here were wondering why for several weeks now. So yes you are right Bobby Cox is an utter genius for putting him in tonight.
Thor, I actually wont be a smart a* towards you, i can blame bobby all i want for putting boyer in but the real problem is they dont have a closer or at least a closer who is healthy 100% of the time. Only thing i can argue with you is that I wholeheartedly believe that Ohman stays in the game it takes him about 7-10 more pitches and braves are in the clubhouse as winners. Thats half the problem with Bobby he has to keep tinkering and playing matchups. He cant just say you know what Will Ohman has been pitching god damn great lately and i am gonna let him stay in against burrell even if it goes against the almight “book” of baseball matchups. Bottom line is braves snatched defeat from the jaws of victory for the 2nd time in 3 nights and they are beyond god awful on the road so i dont feel good about this team anymore.
By Kev
June 7, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this
How many times has Hudson and Glavine lost because of errors,bullpen woes or POOR Offense and situational hitting??…can someone tell me the exact number
By uga-brave
June 7, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this
WILL,
YOUR ARE AND IDIOT.
i never call out other bloggers, i respect every bloggers right to voice their opinion.
heck i go to at least 40 games… well that has nothing to with this comment.
if K.J. CATCHES that ball all is well.
if you win a 2-1 game your manager has done a good job with matchups.
ohhhh. i guess you forgot ohman taking care of back to back LH.
FOR ONCE BLAME THE NINE ON THE FIELD FOR THE FAILURES.
hey i think esco and k.j. will be good offensively long term.
i do know that francoeur will not.
i have been one of his biggest detractors for a long time, been criticized and berated.
DOB, has called me out.
all i always said was, his mechanics stink.
you cannot hit off your front foot if YOU ALWAYS DROP YOUR HANDS.
oh by the way my, the dawgs are one game away from omaha.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this
Murphy, have you been watching the actual games, or just shooting from the hip and saying whatever comes to mind? Or what exactly constitutes a “slump” in your book? One at-bat?
I mean, seriously, you can’t expect to make such a ridiculous statement — “when does Tex pull out of this early year slump again?” — and not get taken to task.
Murphy, Teixeira hit .355 (27-for-76) with six doubles, four homers and 22 RBI in his past 20 games (including three hits Thursday) before tonight, when he was 1-for-3 with a walk and a hit-by-pitch.
Wow, that’s some crazy new definition of “slump” you’ve got, Murphy.
By Will
June 7, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this
Dan in NJ, You are absolutely right about the lefty right matchups! You know who else does that is Tony Larussa who is also a playoff flop job just like Cox, but even he managed to stumble a* backwards into one more title then bobby the great!
By N8
June 7, 2008 12:51 AM | Link to this
uga
In your 12:17, you rag on Jeff (he deserves it after tonight).
You defend Bobby, yet rip Jeff for leaving 9 men on base. Not that far off of his 18 for 72 (.250) that he’s been doing all year with RISP.
Yet, Bobby (the man you say is not responsible - which I don’t think he directly is tonight), is the one who keeps putting him in the 5 hole.
Why isn’t McCann just the EVERYDAY 5 hole hitter? Jeff is hitting 22 for 83 (.265) with 3 HR and 10 RBI against LHP.
McCann has gone 26 for 73 (.356) with 1 HR and 7 RBI against LHP.
Bobby managed good enough to win (including the lineup), if KJ catches that ball.
But one could argue that if McCann was hitting closer to Chipper (giving him more opportunities to knock in runs), that the lineup would be better on an everyday basis, and possibly that drop by KJ doesn’t come into play.
Lots of speculation, I know. But there is not a single stat (based on the first 2+ months of THIS season), that you can give me, that will convince me that McCann doesn’t belong in the 5 hole EVERY day.
In fact, Jeff is becoming dangerously close to being nothing more than a late inning defensive replacement. He’d been THAT bad.
Blanco is over-matched. Anderson hasn’t put up that great of an OBP in the minors.
But they BOTH look less lost at the plate than Jeff does right now (and has for about a month…..or two).
About two weeks ago, I defended Jeff over Tex, because of the salary and expectations on each of their shoulders and wallets.
Well, in the last 28 days (26 games), Tex has gone 30 for 96 (.313) with an OBP of .380, with 5 HR and 24 RBI.
Looks like I’m off the “rag on Tex” Express, and cashing in my ticket for a season pass on the Wiff Machine band-wagon.
Kid needs to step up, or sit down. It’s that simple.
If the day comes, where I pine for Andruw to be back, I’m gonna puke.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 12:53 AM | Link to this
uga-brave, it is amazing, isn’t it? Never seen a group of fans like these here so willing to put blame on a manager when two players (Johnson and Escobar) clearly cost the team a win tonight, when Francoeur had a terrible night at the plate (as you noted), when Acosta blew it again.
Can’t imagine being a fan of this team and somehow, when a second baseman drops a routine popup with two out in the ninth to cost the team a win, somehow finding fault with the manager after the game.
What a forgiving bunch, when it comes to passing blame from the players to the manager.
Well, except for Murphy, who blamed the “slumping” Teixeira.
Geez, time for me to pack it up and go home.
By A-ville Ranger
June 7, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this
How’s this for frustrating….If the Braves had won 50 % of their one run games they’d be 39-23 with the best record in baseball by .5 over the Cubs.Win 40 % of them and they’re 37-25 and in first place by .5 in the east.Win a sad,pathetic 30 % of them and they’re 35-27 and just 1.5 out of first in the east.Mr Cox got it right,they’re ”GIVING IT AWAY”.
By uga-brave
June 7, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this
sorry to offend you WILL TRY SOCCER.
you probably would be good at it.
you posh beckham and all the so called smart people can hang around and tell my why we have global warming.
By Chop Chop
June 7, 2008 12:57 AM | Link to this
According to a Google search (because I couldn’t remember when), Bobby Cox signed his contract extension on May 23rd. Since Bobby signed that contract extension, the Braves are 6-9.
Boy, that was a real shot in the arm.
By Cousin Diaz
June 7, 2008 12:57 AM | Link to this
Will, you are high on something. I’d like to know what it is. To dismiss this Braves team so early in the season means that you are high on something. Any day now, DOB is going to run an entry about how the braves had been scuffling up to this point in the season, back in 2002 or whatever, and how they came back to win the division with Quilvio Veras as their second baseman. I for one believe in the power of positive thinking, and although I hadn’t grouped you with nay-saying wankers, I hope you won’t be one of those. You are smarter than that, buddy.
By Philliesuk
June 7, 2008 12:57 AM | Link to this
Last weekend, I drove to Cincinnati to watch our Braves. When I arrived on friday night, I learned that we suffered a crushing defeat. At that moment, I had a feeling that we would get swept. Losses like that lead to sweeps.
That’s how I feel about this game.
By Will
June 7, 2008 1:02 AM | Link to this
Uga-Brave, I totally agree with you about Frenchy. My question is who put him in the 5 slot to strand 9 runners?
By monty
June 7, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this
In my opinion Boyer never expected to pitch to the left handed batter. THat bumfuzzled him. He couldn’t pitch to Feliz becasue Feliz is a good fastball hitter. Boyer needs a hard slider to get people off his fastball. THat slow breaking ball doesn’t get it. Acosta threw a hanging slider to Victorino. He has thrown more hangers this week than a mad dry cleaner employee. It’s a shame he throws 96 without movement.
By uga-brave
June 7, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this
DOB,
of all the nights i have sat here and sipped great 12 year old scotch this one takes the cake.
it happened folks, it was not bobby’s fault. might not be boyer’s fault, however two walks, two outs.
made the pitch and, heal of the glove.
either way guys keep blaming a manager that puts this team into position to WIN, yeah you get it.
By Rocketide
June 7, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this
Braves have only two clutch hitters. Chipper, and BMac. Frenchy looks like the Cleveland rookie of the year Charbinneau(sp?) who was a one year wonder
Bobby is a good manager for a older, homer hitting team, but not the 2008 Braves.
I don’t understand his lineups. Escobar should be hitting 2nd, BMAc 5th and Kelly 7th.
Cox will keep running the same tired bullpen arms until they fall off
oh well wait till 2010, maybe we’ll get good draft picks when Tex leaves
By A-ville Ranger
June 7, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this
DOB I’m sorry but a manager is supposed to get the best from players.Isn’t that exactly why Cox has been praised in the past ? When a pattern becomes persistent such as losing most of the tough,close games, who would you suggest get the blame ?
By N8
June 7, 2008 1:18 AM | Link to this
DOB
Not trying to defend the Cox bashers tonight (and you know that I’m usually not shy about voicing my Bobby opinion).
But when a player is as frustrating to watch as Jeff is, there’s only so much you can say about him or complain about HIM. It’s all been said.
I get WHY players love Bobby. He’s ALWAYS got their back, when maybe they should be kicked in the backSIDE.
Who’s to blame? Jeff for stinking? Or the manager who refuses to acknowledge that he’s stinking and keep plugging him in there?
Sure enough, Tex has emerged from his April woes to have a solid May, and looks (other than tonight with the game on the line), like he’s on his way to posting his “usual numbers”, by tearing it up in June and the second half.
But how many games COULD HAVE been different, had he NOT been left in the clean-up spot? Speculation, at best? Sure. But Cox just seems to “wait it out”.
I “get” that it’s a LONG season. I get, that going into today, we were 3.5 out with 101 to play.
Now, we’re 4.5 out with 100 to play. With two more against the team we’re chasing, and big road-trip coming.
No urgency on this team. From the players, or Cox. So at the end of the year, when we fall 2 or 3 games short again, I wonder if Cox will regret some moves he DIDN’T make early in the year, when last time I checked, the games STILL count in the standings?
You get to see them in the club-house. You get to hear “off the record” comments. You get to “feel” the mood of the team. You get to see Bobby daily, pick his brain and get some insight on his moves (or lack there of).
Cut us some slack. All we get to see, is a guy that drops a pop fly that cost us a game (against the division leader), and more than likely will get to read a quote from Bobby where he shrugs it off as bad luck.
I’m not sure what I can do about it, other than complain. But that’s not good enough for me, as a fan.
I don’t REALLY want to see Bobby publicly rip him or make Kelly “cry”.
I’m not looking for players to be publicly ridiculed (we do enough of that on the blog). Just wanna know (as a fan), that if a guy like Jeff is having as awful of a time at the plate as he is, that the man in charge of putting the best 9 guys out on the field to win a game, is really trying to do so.
With Andruw, it was understandable. The guy was making 15 million. Dude HAD to play. Jeff is not only making the league minimum (or close to it), he is NOT signed long-term.
Bench him. Show the fans, and the other players that as an organization, only their BEST will be accepted. If THAT is his best, it’s a good thing we haven’t signed him long-term.
Not sure how this rant about Bobby has turned into a rag on Francoeur post. I don’t blame Jeff. His manager and hitting coach have done EVERYTHING within their power to NOT change his approach since his rise to (ahem!) stardom.
If you don’t set a curfew for your kids, do you REALLY think they’re gonna come home at 10 O’Clock every night on their own?
For Jeff’s sake, I hope he gets to play with a manager, that has the balls to take him aside and change him FOR THE BETTER, rather than allow him to struggle the way he has been, and publicly say that they “don’t wanna take away his aggressiveness”.
Truly sorry for making this one so long.
By Will
June 7, 2008 1:18 AM | Link to this
Cousin Diaz, I would love more then anything to see the Braves win another World Series i just dont know what in the world this team has shown through 2 months this season and over the last 2 years that can make me feel good about their chances. I will fully admit reading a few of my earlier posts again i have gotten carried away tonight on the Cox bashing. cant take em back i posted it. Losses like tonight just didnt used to happen to the Braves and its hard to deal with. I honestly and seriously would like to know from you and others what reasons you think this team is a championship contender? People like DOB, who does a fine job covering the braves, but he hates when people like myself start in on this crap, but he was not here for 91,92,93, and worst of all 96. I am not a dumb enough baseball fan to have all my opinions i have stated tonight of bobby cox off just one game. This is a near 20 year body of work. Again i will admit i have went overboard on cox tonight, but i still just dont care for him as an in-game decsion maker.
By uga-brave
June 7, 2008 1:21 AM | Link to this
will,
that i agree with. but if you hit norton or b macc there and we lose.
a whole lot of b*** will take place.
this is gonna sound a little weird, but i believe in some things evening out.
By Cousin Diaz
June 7, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this
DOB I’m listening to that most recent Arcade Fire album, and not so crazy about it. Have you ever heard Datarock?
By Will
June 7, 2008 1:35 AM | Link to this
Uga-Brave, Why not Mccann permanately in the 5 spot? I mean he had several great at bats against a lefty tonight. I guarantee if he was batting fifth he drives in several of those runners Frenchy stranded. At this point i dont have solution for a 5 hitter, but all i do know if frenchy has to be 7 or 8 in the lineup. He is utterly clueless at the plate to the point i am truly starting to question how great of a major league player he is.
By scottBravesFan
June 7, 2008 1:44 AM | Link to this
Tex and Francoeur are terrible. They are just going to continue to pitch around Chipper unless Tex starts hitting like he wants to get paid. Also what was wrong with Soriano? Just didn’t want to pitch him back to back days or something? Acosta and Boyer are terrible and someone should tell Kelly Johnson to use TWO hands when trying to catch a pop up. The Braves are so bad at fundamentals it’s really hard to watch sometimes.
By uga-brave
June 7, 2008 1:46 AM | Link to this
NEIGHT,
DUDE THERE ARE YOU, WW, AND LEW (WELL HE IS A UGA GRAD AND HAS A COOL DOG NAMED ORCA)
dude either way, with all due repect WAKE UP.
HUDDY just shuts down the best offense in MLB.
sure we should of scored more runs.
then again, me and BRVES-DAVE whispered into the self anoited superstars ear and said leave 9 PLAYERS ON BASE SO WE CAN B*** ABOUT IT.
WHOA just flipped over to chanell 48, the jeff francoeur story is on.
kinda weird about a 215 pound safety in high school.
By Will
June 7, 2008 1:53 AM | Link to this
Scottbravesfan, I agree with you. I know Tex has been statisticallly heating up lately, but he has not got big hits late this season. I was sitting here thinking how crazy it was that, even as hot as chipper is, they are issuing a walk to a guy who is gonna make near 20 mil a year after this season. This is gonna increase Chipper chances of staying above .400 if they gonna keep walking him. other teams have to do it til they are given a reason not to.
By Philliesuk
June 7, 2008 1:55 AM | Link to this
No way you can blame Bobby Cox for this loss. No way. This loss is on Kelly Johnson. Period. He had the final out in his glove. Let’s stop the rest of the speculation. Sure, we can discuss the horrific night from Francoeur. We should have been up by at least three runs in the ninth. Regardless, if you take everything away, the dropped ball was the ballgame. Once that ball dropped on the grass, the game was lost. I knew it. We all knew it.
I actually like Bobby Cox. And while I like him, he has made some bonehead decisions in the post-season. You can attribute some of our more painful losses in the post-season to his decisions. If you have watched every single post-season game, as many of us have, then that much is obvious. He is still a hall-of-fame manager, but he still makes some of those questionable decisions that he has for so, so many years.
By Robin
June 7, 2008 2:16 AM | Link to this
This game has been over for what …4 hours now? I STILL can’t quit thinking about it, reading these posts, mulling and more mulling … Devastating! I’m embarrassed for every Braves fan, player, etc. yet, strangely complacent in the fact that … we’re really not that good. Sure looked pretty promising on paper coming out of spring training, high hopes abound. Now this …
I don’t remember feeling like this since the the mid to late 80’s.
Somebody say something that may give me some hope for at least a good night’s sleep anyway. This one hurts!
By GT
June 7, 2008 2:16 AM | Link to this
“Never seen a group of fans like these here so willing to put blame on a manager when two players (Johnson and Escobar) clearly cost the team a win tonight, when Francoeur had a terrible night at the plate (as you noted), when Acosta blew it again.”
Francouer has been having terrible nights at the plate all year. This is hardly an anomoly for Acosta. If not the manager, then who’s job is it to recognize whats going on with the players who are consistently contributing to such results? And more importantly, who is responsible for trying something different to produce a better result? I’m not shifting blame off Johnson, Boyer, Francouer, whoever… but at some point the manager has to recognize the very point you are trying to make.
By Philliesuk
June 7, 2008 2:25 AM | Link to this
Hey Robin here’s some hope: There is absolutely NO WAY that there is a more painful loss than this one for the rest of the year.
By wiki
June 7, 2008 2:27 AM | Link to this
Watched this team since 1979 and believe this to be the toughest loss to take since a 1982 game at LA when Jerry Royster (playing second base) let a weak ground ball go through his legs with 2 outs in the 9th, allowing the winning run to score. Oh well, I guess once every 26 years isn’t bad. I’m thoroughly disgusted.
By Will
June 7, 2008 2:30 AM | Link to this
Robin, I dont know what to tell ya. I was just for some stupid reason watching the highlight clips on mlb website and i watched Johnson drop it like 5 times. I stll dont understand it at all. As i said earlier on my sunday softball team we all would have made that catch even while drinking!that was a 2 game swing in the standings and i cannot remember a more disgusting regular season loss.
By uga-brave
June 7, 2008 2:35 AM | Link to this
hey superstar,
how does it feel to bring a winning franchise down?
since you #7 have started in right field, we have not sniffed the playoffs.
14 years in a row, and somehow you and that great strikezone of yours have proved selfish.
way to go #7, at least you are on a ton of billboards.
By jed
June 7, 2008 2:36 AM | Link to this
just checked back in to see if we’d eaten kelly yet. it’s 2:15 and i’m STILL angry about it. that’s one of the most dreadful moments in recent braves history. anger aside, i’m concerned about what this is gonna do to the guy’s head. we all know he’s got his problems at 2b, but next time there’s a pop fly hit to him in an important game situation, what’s he gonna do? will the pop fly become knoblachian to him?
he’s got to be a conundrum for cox. you need his bat in the lineup, but the defense is a serious liability—especially, i’ve noticed, when there’s pressure on. i dont think he can survive in MLB at 2b. think he’s gonna have to move to 1b or back out to LF eventually.
positive from tonight: the speed of anderson and blanco add some real kick to that lineup. might take a while before bobby figures out how to manage speed. cant recall us ever having any. i’d have those 2 out there for a week in CF & LF and cut them loose on the basepaths. see what happns. but cox is so predictable. watch him start norton and infante in LF, b/c they’re vets.
By Robin
June 7, 2008 2:40 AM | Link to this
For years now this team has had the rep of staying on an even keel, never getting too high or too low, professional about their business, blah, blah, blah ….
Well, ya know what? That ain’t workin’ anymore. Is there any wonder as to why the consistently top teams all have some fire in them? Victorino’s antics weren’t “over-the-top” IMO. It’s passion. He wasn’t trying to show us up at all.
Time for somebody to get pi$$ed-off in that clubhouse!
By Robin
June 7, 2008 2:50 AM | Link to this
Philliesuk Thanks! I feel better already ….a little. :)
Will Yup, I’ve envisioned myself making that play on my old softball team … eyes closed … on the way to the cooler.
You guys are right though, it can’t get any worse …….can it? :)
By Teddy Jack Eddy
June 7, 2008 2:52 AM | Link to this
Chipper makes not one but two very uncharacteristic f-ups back to back in Cinncy,Johnson fs-up a little league catch.What do these and many other ”butt pucker” plays this year have in common ? They all come at a critical point late in very close games.It’s the M.O. of a team that doesn’t have a strong belief in itself.It’s the M.O. of a team short on leadership either on-field,in the dugout or both.
By jed
June 7, 2008 2:52 AM | Link to this
hey uga brave,
i’m not trying to be a smart-a* or anything, but is there anything personal there with you and francouer? i’ve read your posts for a while now, and it sure seems personal. as if you ran into him in buckhead one night and maybe—i dont know—he acted like a jerk to you.
maybe not. maybe it’s all about on-field performance. but it sure doesnt seem that way to me. just asking…
By Nolie
June 7, 2008 3:16 AM | Link to this
Can anybody explain to me why lefthanded pitchers are called southpaws I have never understood that.Bosnian
Most early ball fields were built with home plate facing east so that the late afternoon sun wouldn’t be in the batter’s eyes. The pitcher faced west, and if he was left handed, the ball would be thrown with his south side hand, his south paw.
By Broken News
June 7, 2008 3:25 AM | Link to this
It was reported in saturday’s addition of the New York Times that Cuba has agreed to perform free sex change operations.The move is believed to be an attempt to win support from Republicans in the United States lower Congress and Senate.Upon hearing the news Senator Saxby Chambliss of Georgia was reportedly ”giddy as a school girl on prom night”.
By BravesRule
June 7, 2008 3:29 AM | Link to this
Can anybody explain to me why lefthanded pitchers are called southpaws I have never understood that.*MrBaseball
not sure I can explain the strategy, but calling Kelly Cox’s best hitter casts some serious doubt on your baseball expertise.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 7, 2008 3:59 AM | Link to this
bravesrule
Baseball fields were originally design so that a right handed batter was facing east at the plate, so that the sun wasn’t in there eyes.
In that configuration the right arm of a pitcher would be on the north side and the left arm would be on the south side of the rubber.
These are myths from over a hundred and fifty yrs ago but it is generally considered where it came from.
Supposedly - boxers were using that term for a decade before it was first used in baseball. So unless you know somebody from the 1850’s you’ll just have to pick one of these to believe.
By underachieving again
June 7, 2008 4:23 AM | Link to this
This team is done. Blown a season’s worth of winnable games already. Should’ve won about .650 now, law of averages will catch up and go a legit .500 the rest of the way. Not good enough. Big time underachievers. Bobby has to be accountable.
That said, Kelly has to go. He sucked/choked defensively last year. Just has that deer in the headlights look that makes me expect disasters at clutch time. Let’s cut our losses before we get back to the Series in a couple years and he pulls that crap to lose Game 7. Kelly has the talent but definitely not the intangibles…just doesn’t look like a player. Name a “baseball player” that’s dropped out 27 in a win…you can’t. Good players smell a win. Kelly chokes. Why bother “developing” him. You can’t teach clutch.
By pfunkatl2
June 7, 2008 4:41 AM | Link to this
I have attended NEARLY 1000 major league games, and tonite’s was the SORRIEST! I apologize to the people with children that were near in the 8th 9th and 10th innings…I SURELY sent them into SHOCK with the F-BOMBS.
F’ing SORRY!!!
By Cherokee
June 7, 2008 5:03 AM | Link to this
Here come all the Bobby Cox defenders. I absolutely understand Kelly Johnson catches that and its game over, but that wasnt the only play in tonights game.Will
No but it was the play that lost the game. Make it and all your bullsh1t Cox-bashing stupidity is moot. I’m not a big Cox fan, but all the ludicrous crap that you guys throw around about him in a game like this is just unbelievable. Every loss and most wins are just an excuse for you haters to bash Cox.This game was lost because the damn players did not perform. Get a f@@king life dudes.
By BravesRule
June 7, 2008 5:45 AM | Link to this
Francouer has been having terrible nights at the plate all year. This is hardly an anomoly for Acosta. If not the manager, then who’s job is it to recognize whats going on with the players who are consistently contributing to such results?GT
Even with Francine batting 5th…the game was won with Bobby’s lineup. It was in Kelly’s stinking hand. WON!! Or not…but it was Kelly who lost it , nothing else mattered. Haters just need someone to blame. It’s their nature. Makes them feel better about themselves. It’s not their fault that they root for a mediocre or worse team, it’s really a good team that someone else is ruining. Just the nature of some people. Sad, but it is what it is.
By BravesRule
June 7, 2008 6:04 AM | Link to this
Baseball fields were originally design so that a right handed batter was facing east at the plate, so that the sun wasn’t in there eyeCaptCaveman
draw that out for yourself on a piece of paper dude. If the righthander is facing east than the plate itself is facing north. that means that the pitcher looking in is facing south so neither of his hands are south hands they are east and west hands.Thus when he turned to pitch to the batter his left arm would actually be on the north side.
If the plate itself is facing east then the pitcher is facing west when he is looking in, which places his left arm on the south side. gee just a little bit of geometry would do wonders for you.kill all those urban legends that make no sense. draw it out and think about it instead of parroting something that you read
most are set up now with the plate facing NEish, but that was not the original direction. I don’t know where you came up with that RHer facing east but it would never end up with a LH pitcher being a southpaw.
By Bill
June 7, 2008 6:25 AM | Link to this
This team is terrible. I’ve said for two years that this team is going nowhere under this plan. BC has been there long enough. Some of these players are just to comfortable. I feel sorry for KJ. When are these players going to learn to take both hands to catch the ball. The game was lost before KJ dropped the ball. Looks at the runners LOB.If it takes it I would put everyone up for trade, that can be traded including Tex and Frenchy. It;s time for a change of the guard and stay away from the old and broken down players.
By Yars
June 7, 2008 6:55 AM | Link to this
What hurts the most is, instead of being only 2.5 games out of 1st, we are 4.5 games. I still say the NL wildcard will come out of the NL East. DOB….had no idea you were a Dandy Warhols fan. Dig is a great documentary. Best Dandy’s album I think is, ‘Dandy Warhols….Come Down.’ Even if you take off their big hit, that, ‘heroin is so passe’ song, it’s still a good album. Was not a fan of Some Kind of Monster. I agree, it’s interesting, but it shows a side of the band that turned off some fans. You have these multi-millionaire band members who are exposed as having fragile egos & being way too oversensitive. I actually know some hard core fans of Metallica that after seeing Monster, they lost all respect for the band.
By InCognito
June 7, 2008 7:08 AM | Link to this
worst regular season lost I have ever seen. i am a loss for words. wow. big game too. UNBELIEVABLE. they need to win the next two and try and put this one behind them.
By TURTSNAP
June 7, 2008 7:26 AM | Link to this
Whats this big, bright, round object in the sky that is blinding me this morning. It can’t be the sun, because with all the doom and gloom on here after the game, I thought it was the end of the world.
Some of you guys should be ashamed of yourselves with your attitude/posts. DOB even was so disgusted that he packed it up and went home because of some of the immaturity on here. You all act like you are former big leaguers that made every play in your life.
I think the one that should be most ashamed is pfunkatl2 Give me a break guy (I assume a guy), dropping the F* bomb at a ball game with children and family around you. Shows your IQ level thats for sure. I, for one, am embarrassed to be a Braves fan right now, not because of last nights game, but because of some of you. I guess it is games like this where you really do see who your true fans are.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 7, 2008 7:32 AM | Link to this
Bravesrule
If you really wanted to know you would google it dude. Or do you just want to find a way to argue about it. It was 3 am, I wasn’t trying to draw you a freakin diagram.
Sheesh!!
OK The batter is looking at the pitcher/2nd base/center field - That is EAST. North is 3rd base and South is 1ST base, and well that would make home WEST.
If the pitcher is looking at Home - which arm is on the First base side which is SOUTH — That would be his LEFT ARM.
You are a moron !!!
Now for you next brain teaser — the PEANUT in it whole original form is neither a Pea or a NUT — does that one stump you to.
By Greg
June 7, 2008 7:34 AM | Link to this
That may be the most disgusting Braves game that I have ever watched, and I have been a fan since 1967. It was wretched on so many levels.
Also, our bullpen sucks. I don’t care what the stats say. The bullpen sucks. The only stat that matters is blown saves, and we must lead the league. I would also bet that we walk more people in the 9th inning of close games than any other team in MLB.
I don’t understand it. Boyer was cruising until he realized that he was closing the game and then…AWFUL.
Yes, he got squeezed. But just throw it down the middle. A HR would have been better than what happened last night. This team is now officially in trouble. If Soriano can’t pitch, it’s going to be a long season.
By Del
June 7, 2008 7:51 AM | Link to this
There is one suggestion that I wish Braves mgmt would seriously consider. When Prado is ready to come off the DL, I would like to see him become our regular 2Bman and move Kelly to LF. We need a power bat at the corner outfield spot and Kelly would fill that need quite nicely. That should reduce the chances Kelly has of handling the ball.
Agree with many posters who would like to see Bmac moved up to the 5 hole for good, bat Kelly 6 and Frenchy 7.
Come this off-season I hope that the Braves tell Frenchy TO STAY AWAY from Abdruw Jones workouts. I see a lot of Andruws plate mannerisms in Frenchys approach.
We also need to quit making it easy for pitchers to intentionally walk Chipper after someone steals 2nd or is sacrificed to 2nd. Makes no sense to take the bat out of Chippers hand while he is this hot.
IMHO!!
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 7, 2008 7:51 AM | Link to this
Bravesrule
I actually just went back and read your whole post. You are making to much of a deal about the batter being RHanded. The fields were not built on a compass. They were just generally laid out so that the batter wasn’t looking into the setting sun while batting. That would be impossible to do — remember they didn’t have lights back then. Hence the sun was a major factor and the directional view of all fields were similar. That’s were the term of South-Paw came from and if you were old enough to know that you wouldn’t be asking that question on the blog and just google it for yourself. I can tell that you must be a kid or teenager b/c you went out of your way to try to make my answer sound wrong and then you perfectly explained what I meant right after that.
Only a real idiot would try that and I’m done talking about it. Get a life or get some knowledge but don’t be a douchbag.
By Efrim
June 7, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this
Just woke up and it still is on my mind. What a bummer. For something like 15 years, this team got all of the regular season breaks. Since the start of 2006, the winds of change are in effect. I feel terrible for Hudson because the guy pitched his arse off. I don’t think he even had his best stuff, but he battled all night long. I feel bad for Kelly, it was his fault, but that game never should of been a one run game. Whatever. I’m looking at Jeff’s numbers right now, and he has basically been the worst right fielder in the National League this year. That is pretty awful. I know he is 24, but good lord man, he has no idea what to do up there. It’s like he ran into that Seanez pitch with the bases loaded by mistake. I know people are far too tough on him, but I really don’t think he should be hitting int he 5 or 6 spot. It’s just difficult right now because Kotsay isn’t available. That guy is important to this team. Really important.
By nolie
June 7, 2008 8:14 AM | Link to this
Baseball fields were originally design so that a right handed batter was facing east at the plate, so that the sun wasn’t in there eyes.
In that configuration the right arm of a pitcher would be on the north side and the left arm would be on the south side of the rubber. CC
Capt, the only way that a pitcher’s left arm is on the south side is if he is facing west. He can’t be facing west if the right hander is facing east unless he is pitching from the firstbase dugout across the right side of the plate. He can only face west if the plate is facing east not the righthanded batter. Sorry, butI just don’t see how your discription can apply.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 7, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this
nolie
for the last time the batter is looking straight at the pitcher and facing EAST.
The pitcher is facing west.
What is so f’kn hard about that. Forget about the batter being right or left handed. I shouldn’t have said which side, of course if I didn’t we’d be sitting here talking about that —- North is here, west is there, turn them around, now it’s all backward.
What a couple of losers.
I swear that is the last time I tried to educate the truly stupid.
By Acorn
June 7, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/stats/batting?split=0&league=nl&season=2008&seasonType=2&sort=OPS&type=reg&ageMin=17&ageMax=51&state=0&college=0&country=0&hand=a&pos=rf&startDate=null&endDate=null&minpa=0
By Bobbymahlon
June 7, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this
I would like to see KJ moved to left field and play every day. He was fine when he played there two years ago except for his long hitting slumps which he seems to have over come now. Put Infante at second and sit Frency for awhile and put Andersen in right field .If needed send Frency down and let him get back on track. He left 9 runners on base last night and leaving runners on has got to be the norm for him this year. Also move Andersen or Blanco to the leadoff spot and Kelley to the sixth slot unless a right handed hitter is placed between MaCann and him. I’m sure the old man is too old and stubborn to make moves like this. Signing Cox for another year was one more bad move by the management.
By Lee in S. GA
June 7, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this
Del
I think i am going to have to agree with you about Prado and moving K.J. on back to LF. Johnson has played the position so changing even in the season cannot be much of a concern; It’s not like he is a defensive wizard at 2nd anyway ….so what take the gamble.
This team has no luck but team play determines a lot of luck in sports and the Braves have not helped theirselves at all in that dept. this season.
Think goodness Peachtree carried that game last night. I could not see it and did not see the outcome until ESPN news this morning. I really could not do anything but shake my head and made a little chuckle. It had to be a little tormenting to those that actaully watched the game on T.V.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 7, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this
OK BravesRule and nolie
Why don’t you tell me why we call Left-handed pitcher’s Southpaw’s.
I already gave you the baseball version and mentioned boxing in the mid 1800’s.
So why in the hell do we call them Southpaw’s???
I can’t wait to hear some cockamamee description from either one of you.
You can’t grasp that the batter is FACING the PITCHER. His chest is facing the dugout but his FACE is looking at the pitcher.
Do you need some type of Special-ED lesson plan to understand this?? Maybe I could make little stickers and you could put them on either hand, would that help you??
Or do you now want to suddenly tell the whole freakin’ baseball world that the Southpaw explanation is wrong so we should stop calling them that??
Please observe theses three steps when you answer:
1 - STOP
2 - Think
3 - Type
Actually I really don’t even care. You’re both idiots.
By BravesRule
June 7, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this
The game was lost before KJ dropped the ball.Bill
One of the stupidest statements I have ever read on this board. The game was NOT lost before KJ dropped the ball. If he catches it we win so it wasn’t already lost. My gawd you people are unbelievable whiners, but at least make an attempt to stay with what actually happened.
By Acorn
June 7, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/stats/batting?split=0&league=nl&season=2008&seasonType=2&sort=OPS&type=reg&ag
By Tomahawkin' Again (like it's 1995)
June 7, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this
I actually told my wife as Yunel was stepping into the batters box, “Just watch, he’s going to get a base hit here, but the tying run will be thrown out.” After it happened, her look said it all. Hey Braves Nation, been there, seen that. This is not just a 1-year abberation. The 1991-2005 run is over, the last 3 years are now the reality of the team we follow. Not trading Andruw in ‘06, trading for Tex who is going to turn out to be a 1+ year rental player, signing ancient pitchers like Glavine, relying on that walking disabled list Hampton, all of it is the Braves management (and us as fans) not coming to this reality. They are a .500 team, nothing more, nothing less. They’ll get our hopes up for a series, sometimes for a week, but then the 1-run losses start happening, the brutal lack of fundamentals we see night in and night out. Stop trading away the farm system, let it develop. Stop signing 40+ old pitchers and instead develop the JJJ’s and Stockman’s of the world (like they did in the 90’s). Even if somehow, someway they win the next 2 this weekend (not likely, last night’s loss is a tidal wave and a sweep is brewing), nothing changes. We’ve seen this movie before, 2008 Braves meet the 2006-2007 Braves.
By Philliesuk
June 7, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this
The game was lost WHEN KJ dropped the ball.
By BravesRule
June 7, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this
Bravesrule
If you really wanted to know you would google it dude. Or do you just want to find a way to argue about it. It was 3 am, I wasn’t trying to draw you a freakin diagram.
Sheesh!!Capt Moron
What? You believe everything that you read on the internet whether it makes sense or not? Try thinking for yourself, draw yourself a diagram moron and see for yourself where everybody is facing.
OK moron I googled origin of term southpaw and the first answer reads Early ball fields were built so that home plate faced to the east. That way, the late afternoon sun wouldn’t be in the batter’s eyes, a dangerous situation when a baseball is thrown in your direction.. I also have great uncles(actually great great uncles who played back in the 1800s and they said the plate faced east . Again I say draw the damn thing out instead of believing everything you read.
Aha after reading 6 or 7 different entries that state what I said I finally find that Wikipedia says what you say. So you think Wiki (which is written by whoever wants to write it) is the Hoyle of all things huh, even when it makers no sense? Golly I pity you.
Get off of your fat lazy azz and draw a diagram, idiot.
By Jointing Eddie Murray
June 7, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
Ten hours and eight beers later, I don’t feel one damn bit better.
By Efrim
June 7, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this
Tomahawkin Again
If Jo Jo goes out there and pitches well, they will win tonight. If he doesn’t they will lose. Momentum is as good as the next days starting pitching matchups. Reyes vs. Kendrick.
By Acorn
June 7, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/stats/batting?split=0&league=nl&season=2008&seasonType=2&sort=OPS&type=reg&ag
By Random
June 7, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this
BravesRule & nolie —
Geez Louise, fellas — give the guy (Capt Caveman) a break.
You both know (or at least should) that all batters face the pitcher during their at-bats, whether they’re batting right-handed or left-handed.
So if the batters are facing east (to avoid the sunset), the pitcher is facing west, and his left arm is to the south.
“Southpaw”, QED.
(Or are y’all just messin’ with him? If so, carry on — I’m sure to join you evetually.)
Capt Caveman —
I’m still waiting for you to recant your “2-strikes — no switchee batter’s boxes” myth.
Or are you still convinced that you are right, and you’re doing the requisite research to prove me wrong?
If so, carry on. I’ll be interested to see what you come up with.
Cheers!
By Acorn (Trade Frenchy in 2008)
June 7, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/stats/batting?sort=OPS&split=0&league=nl&season=2008&seasonType=2&type=reg&ageMin=17&ageMax=51&minpa=0&hand=a&pos=rf&startDate=null&endDate=null
By Nomad
June 7, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this
You know, I have not seen Chase on lately. Think he might be posting under another name? Caps, argumentative, needy.
By Supes
June 7, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
Here is what Bobby Cox should do but won’t b/c he is unbelievably stubborn and set in his ways. His loyalty to players is laughable at this point, b/c all he accomplishes with that is players like him, but this team loses games So yeah, he’s the “most well liked manager”, everyone wants to play for him b/c he doesn’t call out their a* when they don’t perform, make mistakes, etc. So they have no fear of losing playing time, their job etc.
This “best friend” manager style is just not working right now and it’s not best for the team.
Kelly Johnson should be benched tonight. Yes, benched for the entire game. Have him PH if you need to, or if there is an injury on the field and he’s gotta come in that way. Start Omar Infante at 2B.
Jeff Francouer should be hitting in the 8th spot tonight. Yes, drop him in the order and keep him there, until he bats more than .250 and actually drives in a RBI or two?
Bench Manny Acosta and definitely rest Blaine Boyer. Boyer is getting to be overused, and Manny is on his way out of ATL at that current rate. For God’s sake they have Stockman and didn’t use him…again!
The person who suggested trading Jeff Francouer for one of the Giant’s young studs in a packaged deal…if such a trade is a possibility it should be done in a heartbeat. Jeff is a good and serviceable right fielder. That’s it. He’s not the “natural” or the “next Chipper Jones”…b/c there will NEVER be another Chipper Jones. Jeff can’t wear Chipper’s jock, use his bats or gloves or sit in his locker. Although he should be! Maybe if he did, some of Chipper’s awesome plate discipline, hitting ability, mental approach to the game would magically rub off on Jeff and the guy would actually hit .285 with 30 HR like “advertised”.
So yes, to answer the question, if you can trade Jeff either now or in the off season for a 1 or a 2 starter…esp. a young pitcher…YOU DO IT and turn the page.
McCann showed us that he’s a stud. Jeff showed us that he’s been overhyped by the media, Braves management and that’s about it.
Braves don’t need TEX. It would be awesome if they sign him, but they don’t need him. However, he’s been heating up some in May, meanwhile Jeff is going the other way.
Lineup for tonight should look like this:
By nolie
June 7, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
Capt Caveman
the parks were set up with the point of the plate facing east. thus the pitcher is facing the point of the plate looking in or west. You talked about RH hitters not looking into the sun, but it would also apply to LH batters too. they would also be facing east so they both would be looking away from the sun in the west. The way you originally stated it made me think that you meant that only the RH batter would be facing east . We are saying the same thing then, the plate faced east which is how I said it. The RH hitter is looking east when he looks at the pitcher as is the LH batter. Since your wording confused me perhaps it confused BR too? But my original post was correct, the plate faced east.
By Tomahawkin' Again (like it's 1995)
June 7, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this
Efrim, you know, you’re absolutely right…but nothing changes that reality. 10 games, a month, okay, you can’t make rash judgements on a team. We’ve seen this all too many times the last 3 years. Nothing changes, they’re a mediocre team after chasing glory for 15 seasons. Let’s not try to turn us into the ‘27 Yankees, the ‘95 Braves, hell, let’s not even turn us into the 2005 Astros who rallied from 15-30 to a NL pennant. They’re a 79-84 win team, as they were the last 2 years.
By monty
June 7, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
I must be missing something, “move Kelly back to left field” Yeh, right put him back out there where he dropped a pop up in the shallow “outfield” last night to lose the game! That makes a lot of sense.Dude turned a beautiful double play with Escobar last night. He will only get better defensively at second. Most major leaugers have been playing their positions since at least high school. Kelly is learning on the fly. Kelly did have the presence of mind to throw out the trailing runner, and did hit a double in the last at bat and scored.Yes, he cost us the game in the sense that if he catches that pop up Braves win. But you have to follow that by a long string of other “if uh, should uh’s. ” The BRaves left countless men on base, At one point they were 2 for 12 with men on base. It was a total team give away last night, with Kelly’s error being the “icing on a big ole cake!”
By Efrim
June 7, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this
Supes
Kelly Johnson should be benched tonight. Yes, benched for the entire game. Have him PH if you need to, or if there is an injury on the field and he’s gotta come in that way. Start Omar Infante at 2B.
Kelly Johnson has been the 5th best offensive second baseman in all of baseball this year. You want to bench him tonight? Well then. He doubled off Gordon last night in the bottom of the ninth and showed a lot of toughness.
Jeff Francouer should be hitting in the 8th spot tonight. Yes, drop him in the order and keep him there, until he bats more than .250 and actually drives in a RBI or two?
He should be hitting no higher than 7th or 8th tonight.
My lineup:
Escobar
Johnson
Chipper
Tex
McCann
Norton
Blanco
Francoeur
Reyes
By Bill
June 7, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this
By BravesRule- So you are into name calling. Stupid use a little old everyday commom sense. The offense puts so much presure on the defense and pitchers. They should have had at least five runs. If,if, if they had scored more runs the drop ball would not been a factor.
By Philliesuk
June 7, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this
Agree with Supes, for the most part. The only difference is that I would like to see how things go with Josh Anderson in the lead-off spot. Not sure how good he is going to be, but he’s a prototypical lead-off hitter. I can’t believe that Cox hasn’t put him there at least once.
By Efrim
June 7, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
Tomahawkin Again
I’m not saying you don’t have to change anything. I would bat Francoeur 7th or 8th against ALL righties until he gets his s** together. Again, Kotsay is a huge loss to this team. If you bat Johnson further down in the order around the 5 or 6 spot instead of Frenchy then you definetly have something. Kotsay bats second. This offense will come through in clutch spots if all of that takes place. Too bad there is no timetable for Kotsay’s return.
By richbrave
June 7, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this
DOWN ON THE FARM
I went to some stats for MISSISSIPPI BRAVES pitchers. Thought you might like some because after CHARLIE MORTON, CHUCK JAMES and DAMIAN MOSS appear to be the only RICHMOND BRAVES pitchers with any intermediate potential to help the big club. Maybe next year, SCOTT WILLIAMSON and his high 90’s heat, but not now.
TOMMY HANSON has a 2-2 record to date with a 5.54 ERA in 5 starts, 26.0 IP, 24 H, 18 R, 16 ER, 1 HR, 3 HB, 11 BB, 25 SO, 1.35 WHIP.
DAN SMITH 1-7 with 6.12 ERA 13 G, 12 GS, 60.1 IP, 80 H, 44 R, 41 ER, 5 HR(Too many!!), 5 HB, 33 BB, 46 SO, 1.87 WHIP. SORRY SANTA 4-whatever, this is not good.
MIKE GONZALEZ 0-0, 0.00 ERA, 4 G (All Relief), 5.0 IP, 7 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 HR, 0 HB, 0 BB, 4 SO, 1.40 WHIP, 1 HOLD.
And JORDAN SCHAFER is batting .259 after 8 games and 27 AB, 13 TB, 6 BB, 6 SO, 1 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, .394 OBP, .481 SLG, .875 OPS.
I really can’t comment on their relative abilities at this point because I have no feel for AA levels of competition. I will add that might change in 2009 however, as Richmond wrangles with Minor-League Baseball’s monopolistic scions over availability of lower level clubs. AA or HIGH A appears to be in our immediate future.
By Philliesuk
June 7, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
My lineup: Anderson Escobar Jones Tex McCann Johnson Norton Francoeur Reyes
By Efrim
June 7, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this
PhillieSuk
Anderson never gets on base. Why would you bat him leadoff?
By richbrave
June 7, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
I say KELLY JOHNSON OWES the BRAVES team and fans a week of .325 hitting with 2 HR’s to atone, and Kelly’s the kind of guy that would do it. Put him out there, and LET’S GO BRAVES.
By Acorn (Francoeur is overrated)
June 7, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/stats/batting?sort=OPS&split=0&league=nl&season=2008&seasonType=2&type=reg&ageMin=17&ageMax=51&minpa=0&hand=a&pos=rf&startDate=null&endDate=null
By Random
June 7, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
BravesRule —
Looks to me like your and idiot here.
You asked the question. (Well, actually, BosnianBaller — not MrBaseball — asked, and you said you didn’t know).
In answering, Capt Caveman made the following true statement: “Baseball fields were originally design so that a right handed batter was facing east at the plate, so that the sun wasn’t in there eyes.”
Your idiocy is exposed when you make the false assumption that the “opposite” of that statement — that a left-handed batter would be facing west — is also true. You evidently do not know what point of the ballfield a batter faces — you seem to think they face the dugouts.
Both left- and right-handed batters face in the same direction — toward the pitcher — during their at-bats. That is the same direction that you say “home plate faces”.
All of you are saying the same thing, yet you continue to dispute each other. Wikipedia is saying the same thing that your 6 or 7 other resouces are saying, yet you do not recognize that and instead think they are in conflict.
Are you just picking nits? If so, I’m outta here.
Let me suggest this — try talking to chrisklob the way you’re talking to Capt Caveman.
chrisklob will knock you on your axes, pick you up, dust you off and set you straight!!!
PS: Btw, simple BosnianBaller was satisfied with chrisklob’s answer twelve hours ago.
By Philliesuk
June 7, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this
Efrim, I guess I just like his plate approach and speed. I’m just saying give it a try. I have a feeling he has the potential to be a better lead-off hitter for our team that Johnson or Escobar. Plus, I think he’s done pretty well since he’s been called up. But I do agree that his main problem is the lack of walks.
By McFann
June 7, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
Aheh heh…oops…
Boyer…Cox…Johnson…Not their faults. All I cann say is 0 for 5 with 9 LOB, and his batting AVG is down to .249. All else does not matter if he drives in at least 2 of those nine. He has no business batting fifth.
By Random
June 7, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this
nolie: “the parks were set up with the point of the plate facing east. thus the pitcher is facing the point of the plate looking in or west.”
Who needs a diagram now? The “point of the plate” points away from the pitcher’s mound, so if it points east, the pitcher is facing east, and the batter is facing west.
Sheesh!!!
By McFann
June 7, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this
The Curse of the One Run Lose:__ While many believe this began in August of 2007, further research has proven otherwise. It dates back to October 9, 2005, when, in 18 innings, the Braves lost 7-6 to the Houston Astros in Minute Made Park. That game knocked them out of the play-offs, and they have yet to return. It also doomed them to a horrible ratio in one-run games, especially on the road.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this
Yars, I really like a couple of the Warhols’ early albums. Have three or four of them. Lead singer’s full of himself in the film, obviously. While watching the movies, that turned me off more than anything the Metallica guys did in their documentary. But didn’t change how I feel about listening to the music — of either band.
That kind of thing just doesn’t affect how I feel about an artist’s music. Why should it? I don’t get that, I guess.
Their artists and/or rock stars. Not role models. I did their art, or their rock, or whatever. And seeing that they’re actually human beings with same ego trips or feelings of insecurity or needs that many of us have, if anything it adds to my awe of what they produce when they get behind the mic or on stage.
By A fly on the clubhouse wall
June 7, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this
Robin
You’re right man, it was all ho-hum in here after the game last night. Couple of guys playing cards, couple guys b***’ about the post-game meal spread, even a few smiles here and there. Couldn’t tell if they won or lost ….really. Just another night.
By Philliesuk
June 7, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this
Here’s what I feel about Josh Anderson…In the minors, he looks like he could be a .280-.290 hitter right now. Given our other current choices, I would take that with a guy who can stretch singles into doubles and doubles into triples. His stolen base % was also 82% in AAA.
If not Anderson, I want Blanco up there. Either one would be a catalyst at the top of the lineup.
By raindawg722
June 7, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this
I remember being told to use two hands to catch popups in little league. It’s such an easy thing to do, yet you so rarely see major leaguers do it. Last night AFTER the gut-wrenching play, I saw Blanco and Anderson both catch popups or flyouts one-handed. In fact, the only guy that I specifically recall using two hands after the play was Kelly’s next door neighbor on the infield, Tex.
Sure, most of the time it is not going to be a factor, but when you have that hand there ready to clamp down on the ball the one time out of a 1,000 when you need it, it can save the day (or night, as it were).
Is there any reason that the Braves (or other organizations) minor league coaches or instructors tell the players NOT to use two hands? I cannot think of any reason why they would advise against it, but I also cannot think of any good reason why it should not always be done.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this
R.I.P. Jim McKay. The great sportscaster is dead. Grew up watching that guy do the Olympics, Wide World of Sports, everything….
Oh, and I agree with N8 on this one: No way Escobar scores on that play, even if he stood at the base and waited to tag when the ball was caught. No way. It was a liner to mid-range left. No way you beat that throw home, no way unless it’s a bad throw and you’re the fastest player in the bigs (which Yunel is not).
Just a poor decision. Period. End of story on that play….
By LT-AA Blogger
June 7, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this
Couldn’t bring myself to blog last night.
Could this, please, be rock bottom. No way on earth this isn’t in their head (this late inning crap).
McFann, you are 100% correct. The start of all this was that 18 inning turnip truck. I remember thinking after that game was that it would carry over into the next year and that was the end of the playoff streak. I didn’t think it would last this long.
This team is better than their record and they only have themselves to blame. Not taking anything away from the Phillies- damn good line up. Overall, I still think the Braves are the better team if they could play to their potential and not totally nut up when a game is on the line.
I think we’re gonna have to start a support group for the Braves and it’s fans, 1RA (1 run anonymous).
By h_charles
June 7, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
There was a time when the Braves always won games like this. They were a blessed team. For over a decade, always found ways to pull out game.
Perhaps it is just karma catching up. All those years of good luck balancing out. This team can’t find a way to win 1 run games.
As to this one, KJ has killed this team all year with the glove. Seems every error he makes is a huge one, and this tops them all.
I don’t know how long you can keep him at 2b. His bat is great, but the D is just awful.
Or course, Cox does deserve some of the blame by making him a 2b. He isn’t. He can’t do it.
It was worth a try, but no more.
Frenchy seems to have taken A Jones role as choker with men on. This is as bad as I’ve seen him, and that includes the K filled rookie year. At least back then he hit some homers. He might need some time off.
This team has got to learn to shorten their swings and go the other way (except McCann, who has the hand/eye to hit breaking stuff and junk throwers despite the big cut), and Chipper, who actually knows how to hit.
The bullpen is toast. Just overworked, and that is Cox’s fault. He pulls every pitcher but Hudson after 6. He carries a pitcher he never uses.
Cox deserves blame there. Boyer is beat. Acosta is a head case. Soriano is too fragile to go every night.
Gonzo, hope you got your stuff. We need it.
By Braveheart
June 7, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
Who needs a diagram now? The “point of the plate” points away from the pitcher’s mound, so if it points east, the pitcher is facing east, and the batter is facing west.
Doesn’t the plate point west but face east, thereby leaving the hitter looking east but the pitcher looking west with the arm of the righthander coming from the north and the arm of the lefty coming from the south?
Don’t know what I just said but thanks, Caveman, for giving us something else to talk about.
By chrisklob
June 7, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this
Let me suggest this — try talking to chrisklob the way you’re talking to Capt Caveman.
chrisklob will knock you on your axes, pick you up, dust you off and set you straight!!!
But that’s only because I don’t have any sense of humor.
By McFann
June 7, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
LT-AA Blogger—
Yes, that carried over…and over…and over. That game placed upon the Braves…a terrible curse…
Ya best start believin’ in ghost stories, Turner Field…Yer in one!
Yeah…sorry…
By JEB
June 7, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
Here are some theories of why McCann is batting 6th: McCann is a good contact hitter and has some pop in his bat. If TEX was not in the line up he would be a great #4 hitter.
But, he is slow on the bases. So, after TEX cleans up from the top 3 (this is the idea) then the no# 5 batter is to either start the cycle again, or keep it going. McCann (at #6) is to then push the runners forward. If McCann is in front of Frenchy then he slows Frenchy down on the bases (this effects you more as the game goes along - especially in close games).
At the present we have fast guys behind McCann in the order (which will slow them down) McCann will get pulled very often in close games for a faster runner.
Right now, I would move McCann to the #4 spot (he is hitting GOOD enough for this spot). At this spot you get more change ups and off speed pitches, but he is good at making good contact on those pitches.
Move TEX down to #5. He will get hotter as the year moves on. When he does move him to 4 and McCann to 5 or 6 with speed and contact in between him and TEX (if Frenchy does not improve - definetly not him) If Anderson continues to do well, it would be him. Frenchy has to be at 7 or 8 in the line up.
I do understand why BC has him in the 5 spot now, Frenchy will get better pitches with McCann behind him.
Shaking this line up around MUST be what happens to get some things going. They ARE stuck in a rut!
By McFann
June 7, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this
If McCann is in front of Frenchy then he slows Frenchy down on the bases JEB
First we have to get Frenchy on base.
By Interested Observer
June 7, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
JEB, I must respectfully disagree on one point. Frenchy will not get better pitches with McCann hitting behind him because pitchers know they don’t have to throw Frenchy good pitches. He will only get better pitches when he stops consistently getting himself out on bad ones.
By JEB
June 7, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
DOB I know you are not responsible for the interactive hitting game on the AJC site, but it is about as negative as some of these bloggers on this site!
I hit 14 of 20 pitches out (at a .700 clip) and it tells me “it’s ok - that I could do better!” Just never enough is it!!
By N8
June 7, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this
DOB
“That kind of thing just doesn’t affect how I feel about an artist’s music. Why should it? I don’t get that, I guess.”
I hear ya. I’m the same way. I’ve got a buddy who refuses to watch (and if he does watch - he complains about it), certain actors movies or TV series, because of their political beliefs. I just don’t get that.
“And seeing that they’re actually human beings with same ego trips or feelings of insecurity or needs that many of us have, if anything it adds to my awe of what they produce when they get behind the mic or on stage.”
100 percent agree. Many people like to witness stars acting like stars (Paris Hilton comes to mind), but I like seeing what they do in their everyday life, and HOW they got to be stars.
I used to love (still do in re-run format), the VH-1 “behind the music” shows, before they started reaching for stories.
But my favorite one was the Milli Vanilli episode, and I certainly don’t consider myself a MV fan, by any stretch. But it sure was interesting.
Another series I like on VH-1 is their “Classic Album” shows. Where they take an album and dissect it, talking to the artists, producers and managers, and they sit down and go over the tunes track by track, and turn down certain tracks and tell the stories of how the songs became the way we know them.
One of my favorites, is the Steely Dan episode, and I have never really cared for Steely Dan.
I guess I just love “behind the scene” type of shows, when it involves musicians.
By Austin
June 7, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
Cox needs to man up and call KJ and Francine out. He dosent need to go on a tirade but he does need to say something like play like that is unacceptable. He can’t continue to baby grown men.
Francine needs to be hitting 8th and KJ needs to be benched.
By mr baseball
June 7, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
Will be interesting to see how the team responds to last night’s debacle. One of the few things I like about Cox has been his ability over the years to keep the team from sulking when things are going badly, and they couldn’t go much more badly than they did last night.
All the people trashing Kelly for his awful screw-up last night need to let it go. Not sure I remember the same vitriol directed at Chipper after he let two straight grounders get through him last week to cost the Braves a game. Kelly knows what he did, we know what he did. Let it go. It wasn’t for lack of effort. He just botched it.
Same goes for Francouer. He has played too well in his short major league career to trash him as has been done on here because he’s struggling at the plate. He is not Andruw. He is not striking out at least once a game. He’s not flailing repeatedly at pitches he can’t reach. He’s missing pitches he should be hitting, which could be any number of things.
Unless he’s all of a sudden forgotten how to hit in his mid-20s, he is not going the way of Andruw. He’s in a slump. He’ll snap out of it. Cut him some slack.
The manager is another thing entirely. He did not lose the game last night. Johnson did with assists from Francouer, Tex & some wonderful baserunning blunders. Cox was not responsible for any of that.
However, he is responsible for the decisions he makes during a game, and you can almost always count on several stupid ones from him every night. The guy is clearly not the sharpest pencil in the box, and 2 decisions he made last night demonstrates that.
Having Kelly put down a sacrifice bunt, allowing Manuel to intentionally walk Chipper, is as idiotic a decision as a manager will ever make. Why in the world would a manager willingly invite the opposing team to walk the game’s hottest hitter? (I was referring to Chipper, BravesRule, not Kelly. Learn how to read and comprehend before you blog.)
That decision is a window into Cox’s stubborn adherence to the “baseball book.” He frequently makes decisions not based on whether they make sense, but whether they’re in line with traditional baseball thinking. No major league manager outside Atlanta would bunt in that situation except our beloved Chance the Manager.
It’s possible Chipper would have grounded into an inning ending DP, but it’s also possible he would have delivered the game-winning hit. We’ll never know, will we?
Stupid decision #2 was sending Acosta back to the mound in a tie game after his recent performances. Has Cox not watched Acosta stuggle mightily the last week? Carlyle was still available (not sure about Bennett) and should have been in the game at that point. Let Acosta work his way back to his late-inning role in a less pressurized situation.
But, n-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o. Chance the Manager puts exactly the wrong pitcher in the game at the wrong time, and there you have it. Another one-run loss.
Don’t deapair, denizens. Our illustrious blogmaster will reassure us today that there’s still 100 games left, the Braves are only 4 1/2 games out of first, we have the best manager in baseball, this series really doesn’t matter that much and all is well in Bravesland.
By JEB
June 7, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
McFann
You are absolutely right!
Interested Observer
You are correct! I’m just stating the theory of this batting order. Right now Frenchy is getting himself out - with poor plate discipline. Right now this theory (which is why BC uses it) is just a HOPE!
By Reality Rex
June 7, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
The Detroit Pistons fire a guy for reaching 3 Conference Championship Games in a row, and the President of the team is IRATE.
Now if this occured in Atlanta for the Braves there would probably be a write in drive to waive the 5 year requirement and have Bobby enshrined in the Hall of Fame.
And I’m going to go out on a limb and say it might be harder to reach 6 Conference Championship Games in a row, win two of them and 1 NBA Championship THAN it was to beat out the Florida Marlins, Montreal Expos, Woebegone New York Mets—ask anybody in baseball—-and the Philadelphia Phillies for a prolonged period of time. The Braves OWNED the Philadelphia Phillies(a team that has won 1!!!!!less World Series in their history than the Marlins). I will give them that—if doing that for years and then failing miserably in postseason qualifies you for deification—Well, go right ahead and give the little round man all the accolades you can think of.
Just seems funny that act would not have been so greatly admired in Boston, New York, Detroit in Basketball or other markets without a fawning press corps and a level of expectations suitable for a team who employed 3 Hall of Fame pitchers, arguably greatest switch hitter in baseball and a Lineup that was by any estimation markedly better than their division rivals for duration of run.
By nolie
June 7, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
June 7, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this
nolie: “the parks were set up with the point of the plate facing east. thus the pitcher is facing the point of the plate looking in or west.”
Who needs a diagram now? The “point of the plate” points away from the pitcher’s mound, so if it points east, the pitcher is facing east, and the batter is facing west.Random
Yes I misspoke, I meant that the front of the plated pointed east-I should have just said faced east like I originally did.I played through college as a catcher and scouted and worked for a minor league team through most of the 70s so I know how it is laid out, I simply misspoke . And you can mistake what way he meant the batter faces, when he first steps in he could be said to be facing the dugout area-which if a Rh hitter is the only one being considered then that could be true. There was no confusion when I stated originally that the plate faced the east. I admitted that we were basically saying the same so what the hell are you giving me an attitude about something that wasn’t directed to you and something that I was not nasty about in any way. Two other guys calling each other morons -and they both did it- has nothing to do with me other than my admitted misunderstanding of what Capt meant-so what? I’m catching he11 from you because I admitted to my misunderstanding?, But my original post was correct so why was he continuing to say it wasn’t?
By Reality Rex
June 7, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
Dear David, I’m retired and co-host the 3:00-6:00 show in Spartanburg(ESPN1400) two days a week, if I ask the station manager to arrange it can we get you a 5 minute segment to tell us how Mike Hampton looks throwing off of a flat surface?? People in the upstate of South Carolina are constantly asking about his rehab, his pectoral muscle, his shoulder, his groin and whatever. The guy on WCCPFM(The Clemson Flagship Station) eviserates him even more than I do.
If he somehow pitches 5 games this year and goes 2-3 with a 4.67 era do you think he attempts to go somewhere else OR do you think he might believe he owes Atlanta, the Braves, Bobby and John the chance to see him pitch here??
By Lew
June 7, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
Whatever. Kelly dropped the ball and we lost. Today’s another day and we have another game tonight. Only 100 more chances to gain those 3 1/2 games on the Phillies. Tonight’s a good night to start.
Oh yeah-only 100 more games for some of y’all to b!tch and moan-at least until the playoffs. Is that enough time? Can you get it all off your chests by then? Doubt it, but I’m sure you’ll try.
Under the category of if you don’t like the weather-wait a minute. It was 54 degrees here in Vermont yesterday. Today it’s going to 95. Time to break out the fans. Don’t have AC.
By McFann
June 7, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
Thanks, JEB.
So, ChampDawg (wherefore art thou?), did McCann play “out of position” last night in the ninth? Didn’t think so.
By Greg in TN
June 7, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this
Morning folks…
Well we certainly have had our share of brutal games the last few years haven’t we? And that was before the dawning of the ninth inning last night denizens.
The seventh seems to have framed how the season has gone so far neatly. Top of the seventh, sacks packed, Yunel saved disaster with a diving snag of a Chris Coste grounder to start the twin killing to get us out of the inning unscathed. Bottom of the seventh, Yunel’s delayed tag on a Frenchy liner to left dooms his attempt to score from the beginning, and I agree with DOB and the others that say he would have had no shot regardless. No way he makes it home even if he’s back and tags ahead of Burrell’s throw home.
However the toughest pill to swallow is the drop down the right field line by KJ of what would have been the game ender. No excuses there folks. KJ joins a fraternity of players that have dropped fly balls this year that includes Ken Griffey Jr and Alphonso Soriano (although Soriano’s drop was blamed on the sun). Soriano’s gaffe cost the Cubs the game in the same manner we lost last night.
I don’t know why the insistence by most fielders in the game to throw the glove up and not use the other hand to assist, especially in a situation where a catch equals a win and a drop equals, well, what we ended up with. He got to the ball in plenty of time to be able to use both hands (not all of the time is using two hands realistic with that type of catch).
Victorino’s throw in the ninth was perfect, if it wasn’t, Blanco scores and ties the game. Nothing to do there but tip the cap to Victorino.
Regardless of the outcome, the NL will expect the team to show up at 7 PM tonight to play again, so no time to sit around and dwell on what could have been, which is a good thing. One thing is for sure, mental lapses on the basepaths and in the field has to improve, or woulda, shoulda, coulda will be back for a return engagement from the past two years.
By chrisklob
June 7, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this
N8
I hear ya. I’m the same way. I’ve got a buddy who refuses to watch (and if he does watch - he complains about it), certain actors movies or TV series, because of their political beliefs. I just don’t get that.
I’m one of those guys and I’ll tell you why I feel that way. In my opinion, celebrities shouldn’t use their “celebrity status” to shove their political beliefs down my throat. Being a celebrity does not make one an expert in politics. In fact, many celebrities come off as being really ignorant when it comes to really understanding political issues.
By seeing a tv show or movie or whatever starring one of these outspoken actors shows that I am in support of their beliefs, in my opinion.
Don’t get me wrong. Each and every one of us are entitled to our beliefs. I am not denying that Michael Moore or Charlton Heston of their right to have an opinion. I don’t need to know what that opinion is though. I am sure that there are plenty of celebrities that I happily watch whose beliefs are not consistent with mine. I just don’t want anyone trying to impose their beliefs on me.
On a similar note, anyone ever suspect that some of these celebs jump on the “political bandwagon of the day” just to further their own career?
By N8
June 7, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
chrisklob
Don’t get me wrong, when Bono decides to start talking politics while accepting a Grammy, it annoys me.
I, for whatever reason, am able to “separate” that from their music, (or movies/shows in the case of actors), if it’s a form of entertainment that entertains me.
But I understand your angle, as I do my buddy’s. I just don’t share the same theory.
By jbutler
June 7, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
chrisklob I’m w/you on the actors/political bandwagon…I don’t enjoy watching the especially vocal ones (Sarandon/Penn/Heston) just cause I watch a movie to get away - not be reminded that Penn thinks I’m ruining the ozone.
DOB Any word on why Soriano warmed up last night than Cox said he was “unavailable?” Sorry if I missed it - just curious.
By TexasBrave
June 7, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this
Mr. Baseball good point that even a great player like Chipper can make an error to lose a game, although I will say that Kelly’s chance was far easier to make than Chip’s.
However, I do have to disagree with you a little in reference to bunting Escobar over. I am willing to bet Cox new that Manual would walk Chipper by bunting the runner over. However, it would take at least a long double to get the runner at first in were it would take a single from a hot hitting Tex to bring him in at second.
One thing I am getting sick and tire of is Bobby not giving Stockman a chance when he has proven he deserves one. Yes it was a pressure situation but Acosta got burned twice the night before. The worst that could happen is that he would lose the game which is what happened anyway. Lets see what this guy is capable of so perhaps we can use him more to relieve some of the pressure that Bobby has been placing on a few members of the bullpen. This is really starting to look like one times (Devine) that Bobby doesn’t have a lot of confidence in someone and uses him sparingly no matter what the cost to the rest of the pen or the team.
By chrisklob
June 7, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
N8, I wish I could separate those two issues. But I can’t. I realize that it precludes me from watching certain movies, shows, whatever that I might otherwise enjoy. Honestly though, I couldn’t tell you the last time I went to ANY movie. It’s just not something that I find that enjoyable.
By Lew
June 7, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
As far as Political viewpoints from actors and musicians- do what I do. Watch the movies, listen to the music. Don’t bother watching the stupid awards shows where they air their views.
I couldn’t care less whether or not Bono gives his fortunes or energy to African relief or if Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt adopt any more ethnic children. I like the Lara Croft movies. I like U2’s music. Don’t care what they do with their celebrity. They are two separate things that are hardly mutually exclusive. It’s real easy to enjoy one part and to ignore the other.
By Pete
June 7, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
As long as a team…………any team, at any level………has the name Atlanta attached to it, they will find new and creative ways to lose……….to choke when the “money is on the table”. No mystery here. Some things NEVER change.
By Lew
June 7, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this
Y’all-People can only shove their opinions down your throat if you let them do it. If it were a natural occurrence, Nathan would have turned me negative three or so years ago. He ain’t stopped ranting and I’m still optimistic-about the Braves, anyway. About Nathan changing his tune? Not so much.
By JEB
June 7, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
Texasbrave
Totally agree with your Stockman thought! BC does not have confidence in him right now!
He will put him in a game they are BEHIND in to see what he is made of and how well he will do. If he does well, then Stockman’s confidence grows, and BC’s trust in him grows. If he puts him in during a tight game (game on the line situation) he may hurt Stockman’s progress and Stockman’s confidence.
In the mean time Stockman sits and his ball players pysche grows with the thought “get me in the game - I’ll prove what I can do!” As this grows in him, BC puts him in a game - he either does great (it gives him confidence - encourages him, & BC too!) If he does bad, he knows he has some work to do and knows why BC hasn’t put him in sooner.
Stockman has done well in the past, but has struggled also, creating a few “edge of your seat” situations. BC will bring him along slowly. In the mean time we just all scratch our heads and wonder what’s going on !
By Shaun
June 7, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this
Based on Bobby’s strategic moves and non-moves with the pitcher last night (eg, feinting with a pinch hitter, then having Jurrjens bat) and tonight (eg, leting Ohman bat), are you still hard over for the DH in the NL?
Random,
It really not a huge issue for me. Sure, I’d like to see the two leagues under the same rules. And I don’t really think it’s all that entertaining to see pitchers hit. But I completely understand the symmetry arguments and the reasons that people off up for pitchers to hit.
I don’t think it’s as big an issue as some have made it, though. I mean the NL has won some World Series since they started using the DH in AL parks but not in NL parks.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this
Happy B-Day: Prince (the big 5-0), Dave Navarro (41), and Tom Jones (68)….
MR BASEBALL (and I use that term very loosely, and only because it’s your chosen moniker): let’s get this perfectly straight, or crystal, as the kids say: I’m not here to assure you of anything, my friend. Not a single thing. I couldn’t care less if you believe the Braves are going to win the World Series, finish 30 games out of first base, or somewhere in between. And I say that with complete sincerity. Matters not one bit to me. I’m covering the rest of the games (or rather, about 80 percent of them), whatever happens. You can watch, enjoy, complain, etc, really doesn’t affect me one iota.
Oh, and I can assure you of one thing you mentioned, but only one: Braves have 100 games left to play.
The rest, matters not to me. I just report on what happens and what I think of said happenings. Whether you like how I view it, again, matters not to anyone but you.
Peace to you, my man.
By wiki
June 7, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
Given the Braves’ road woes, there’s a good chance that Soriano will get plenty of rest on the upcoming road trip.
By Bravesfan79
June 7, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this
Reality Rex: what are you smoking man! To say the Pistons run over a few years in a WEAK eastern conference (until this year) is possibly more impressive than the Braves run of 14 straight division titles IS STUPID!!
And the Braves didnt always beat up on the same teams, they had to beat out the Giants, Dodgers and the NL west when they first started the streak! You sure your on the radio?? because you sound like a 10 year old Pistons fan that dosent know much about baseball or basketball to me.
And why are you so obsessed with Hapton? We dont really care much for the ex met thats done nothing but drain the payroll, besides even when hes healthy hes NOT A BIG GAME PITCHER! Smoltz should of gotten that start against Houston in that game 5 a few years back, it showed Cox’s un-flexability and to me was the worst move (or non-move) of Bobbys career. Little things like that are why we have only 1 WS title.
So whats the Pistons excuse for only winning it all once?? They couldnt even beat Labron overhyped Queen James last year to get to the finals.
And this is coming from a fan of Hamilton, Rasheed Wallace. I like the Pistons, but no way u can compare 5 years to 14 years.
Go Braves! BTW: dont count out Smotzie!
By Lew
June 7, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this
JEB-Why scratch your head trying to figure it out? Seems to me you already figured it out. Your statement sounds to me like the reason BC is going slow with Stockman.
Does anyone remember what happened when Joey Devine was thrown head first into the fray? Do we need or desire a repeat?
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this
Reality Rex: You’ve given a lot more thought to what Hampton might do beyond this year than I have. Apparently you care more than I do.
Why on earth would you want him to sign another contract with the Braves? Seriously, is that something that’s weighing on you, what happens to Hampton IF he comes back and pitches this season?
Anyway, I have no idea. Not convinced he’ll pitch at all this season, personally. I’ll keep you updated on his “progress,” though. Part of my job.
By TexasBrave
June 7, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
Lew are you agreeing with JEB that Bobby should be going slow with Stockman? I think Stockman and Devine situations are totally different. I think Joey was brought up and put in a division series pressure cooker in what a year in the minors? Stockman, however, has been around, I think he is 28, a little more maturity and is most likely able to handle the pressure of a single close regular season game.
Stockman has done his time in the minors like Devine should have. Stockman looks ready to contribute, lets test him and find out.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
As someone mentiones last night….
Why isnt Infante playing 2B and KJ LF???
I would even bench him
Play infante at 2B and Anderson at LF.
At least they both can catch the ball.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
N8, I wish I could separate those two issues. But I can’t. I realize that it precludes me from watching certain movies, shows, whatever that I might otherwise enjoy. Honestly though, I couldn’t tell you the last time I went to ANY movie. It’s just not something that I find that enjoyable.Chrisklob
All due respect, because that’s obviously a choice you make and you obviously are perfectly content with it. But that’s nearly incomprehensible, to me. I mean, you don’t enjoy going to the movies because of actors’ political beliefs? Whew. That’s rough, man.
So much for the proverbial water-cooler or dinner-party conversations, huh?
Oh, well. Like I said, you’re obviously content and it’s not like your life’s empty without movies. So shouldn’t be a concern of mine or anyone else. Just hard for me to imagine that, that’s all.
And as far as music, well, many of the greatest rock artists have been outspoken in their views since the advent of the genre. Same for a lot of jazz, country and other artists. I couldn’t care less if this country artist is a staunch Republican or that rock artists is an outspoken Socialist or whatever. I like the music or I don’t.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
Just looking up Francoeur stats: In his past 50 games, he’s hit .237 with four homers, 25 RBI, a .298 OBP and .379 slugging percentage.
That’s really bad, folks. Gotta wonder how long Bobby will stick with him hitting as high as he has in the order. That’s just unproductive work.
By JEB
June 7, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this
Lew
You are correct!
I just use the statement: “in the mean time we all just scratch our heads and wonder what’s going on!” as a corporate statement concerning this blog. That is generally the perception here.
I agree with you on the Devine thought - he was rushed! Lost confidence. His psyche was messed with!
By Braveheart
June 7, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this
The Detroit Pistons fire a guy for reaching 3 Conference Championship Games in a row, and the President of the team is IRATE.
Yeah, because Flip Freaking Saunders had nothing to do with making that team good. Joe Dumars and Larry Brown did like the way Cox and JS did with the Braves.
Now if this occured in Atlanta for the Braves there would probably be a write in drive to waive the 5 year requirement and have Bobby enshrined in the Hall of Fame.
You mean like the way Larry Brown gets all those props for winning one NBA title with that team?
And I’m going to go out on a limb and say it might be harder to reach 6 Conference Championship Games in a row, win two of them and 1 NBA Championship THAN it was to beat out the Florida Marlins, Montreal Expos, Woebegone New York Mets—ask anybody in baseball—-and the Philadelphia Phillies for a prolonged period of time.
It is so much easier, once you have put together a core in the NBA, to consistently make it deep in the playoffs.
6 teams have won 27 of the last 29 NBA championships: Celtics, Lakers, Bulls, Pistons, Rockets, Spurs
Look at the Eastern Conference Finals over the last 29 years:
The Celtics made it 8 of 9 years, the Sixers made it 5 of 6 years, the Bucks made it 3 of 4 years, the Pistons made it 5 years in a row, the Bulls made it 5 years in a row, the Knicks made it two years in a row, the Bulls made it 3 years in a row, the Pacers made it 5 of 7 years, the Magic made it two years in a row, the Heat made it two years in a row, the Nets made it two years in a row.
Once you got that core together in the NBA, you are gonna make it deep before you lose to the better team.
Baseball is nothing like basketball. Performance and stats in basketball are pretty darn static. Kobe is not gonna go from scoring 40 points a game in this series to only scoring 8 points a game in the next series the way Chipper can bat .500 in one series but .125 in the next series or the way Maddux can have a 1.12 ERA in this series but a 5.65 ERA in the next one.
In basketball, the best teams usually make it deep and the best team usually wins it all. There are never teams that got hot at the right time.
In baseball, hot teams do beat the better team. The best teams make it to October but the best team does not always win.
By brian
June 7, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
I would think Frenchy’s spot in the order is safe DOB looking at Bobby’s track record (his stubborness with Andruw Jones last year was unbelievable)
By Random
June 7, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
raindawg722 (expressing also the sentiments of many others here): “I remember being told to use two hands to catch popups in little league. It’s such an easy thing to do, yet you so rarely see major leaguers do it.”
As I recall the play, KJ was running hard to his left just to get to the ball. He really was in no position (ie, settled under it) to use both hands.
Let’s get off his back at least about that.
chrisklob —
Just tryin’ to give you your props — credit where credit is due. (We can’t all be funny — you should reconcile yourself to that, and resign yourself to simply enjoying and appreciating the humor of others.)
8-)
nolie: “Yes I misspoke, I meant that the front of the plated pointed east-I should have just said faced east like I originally did… . what the hell are you giving me an attitude about something that wasn’t directed to you and something that I was not nasty about in any way.”
nolie, bud, I wasn’t giving you an attitude, unless you somehow think a mild and innocuous “Sheesh!” qualifies. I was just pointing out your misstatement — surely you can take that? Props to you for correcting and clarifying it.
And please note that I didn’t take exception to the rest of your comment — you were saying the same thing I was. You certainly did not catch h3ll from me for that — perhaps you were throwing (straight) up?
I gave BR a Y.A.I for persistently and perversely misinterpreting what Capt Caveman had said (actually, what he had quoted from Wiki).
“And you can mistake what way he meant the batter faces, when he first steps in he could be said to be facing the dugout area-which if a Rh hitter is the only one being considered then that could be true.”
Imo, given the context of the discussion, this is a far-fetched intepretation of what he said, and one that should certainly have been early dispelled as the discussion continued. That’s why I kept thinking y’all were either just giving him a hard time for S&G, or deliberately nit-picking.
Be that as it may, I certainly did not intend to give you an attitude. I apologize for allowing you to get that misimpression.
Anyway, I blame the whole brouhaha on Wikipedia and their unfortunate wording that pointlessly and irrelevantly specified the handedness of the batter while addressing the origin of some nomenclature for the handedness of the pitcher. BR is partially right at least in that respect.
(Nor does it help to use such loose and undefined language as “home plate faces east (or west, or wherever)”. As far as I’m concerned, home plate faces straight up.) ;->
By Steve from OH
June 7, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
DOB:
With all of the new draftees for the Braves, how does the organization make room for all of them? Do they just cut an equivalent number of players?
By TexasBrave
June 7, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
Is it about time for Frenchy to sit out another game? With his average below 250 and him struggling mightily, I think so. At the very least he should not be batting in the fifth hole until he starts turning things around. He does have 3 singles and 3 strike outs in 8 at bats against Kendrick. Perhaps try this line-up tonight: Blanco, Escobar, Chip, Tex, McCann, KJ, French, Anderson.
I am still not sold on Blanco as a lead off hitter. He does take pitches and gets walks, but he doesn’t have much of an average and at times will take a called strike three looking for the walk.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
Move TEX down to #5. He will get hotter as the year moves on. JEB
Jeb, Teixeira has hit .348 with four homers, 16 RBI and a .446 OBP in his past 12 games. At one point would you move him back to the cleanup spot, how hot should he be before you’d move him back?
By JEB
June 7, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
Texasbrave
The situation of Stockman and Devine is not musch different!
Devine was only in the minors 3 months (maybe) when placed in that situation.
Stockman (though he is 28) was found from the World Classic (Australia team I think) he has not been around the pros very long! Although Moylan was in the same situation - I just don’t quite rank him in the same class with Moylan YET! Maybe at some point - but not right now. It’s a different world pitching in the minors than in the majors. BC has the book on him from the minors coaches, and he knows about this guy and a little about his makeup. I’m sure there is a reason BC is going slow with him.
I too would like to see more of him, and less of wearing out a few guys (even in games where the score is lopsided - I don’t understand those calls by BC!!).
By Braveheart
June 7, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this
Just looking up Francoeur stats: In his past 50 games, he’s hit .237 with four homers, 25 RBI, a .298 OBP and .379 slugging percentage. That’s really bad, folks. Gotta wonder how long Bobby will stick with him hitting as high as he has in the order. That’s just unproductive work.
I love Frenchy but if he wasn’t “Frenchy” that kind of performance would be grounds to get sent down to the minors, not just lower in the lineup.
I mean that’s what caused him to get called up in 2005 - those are the kind of horrific numbers Mondesi and Jordan were putting up.
By Supes
June 7, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
DOB
Thanks for putting up the stats on FRANCINE the past 50 games. Right down awuful from the 5th/6th hole in the lineup.
That is the maddening thing about Bobby Cox, he won’t move Jeff to 8th until Jeff heats up (if he ever does?). He is way too stubborn, loyal and protective to a fault.
BTW…MR BASEBALL (I too use that reluctantly b/c yeah!) we are no trashing FRANICE or Kelly. We are pointing out the facts.
The point is that these Braves are babied by Cox. Jimmie Rollings is the NL MVP, and he was benched for breaking a team rule of not hustling. So do you think that Kelly is beyond reproach, or that sitting him one game is throwing him under the bus? Kelly is our second baseman. He can hit. He will make his fare share of routine errors. He’s worked on his defense. What I believe is that he made a MENTAL ERROR during that play in the top of the 9th and has to be punished for it. Make him sit. Just like Rollins was punished for the remainder of the game a few days ago by Charlie Manuel, a manager who understand how to motivate and light a fire under his team, and one who doesn’t cottle his players.
KELLY JOHNSON needs to be on the bench tonight as punishment for costing the Braves the game with a mental error, not using 2 hands on a play like that…they teach you that in little league.
FRANICE needs to be hitting 8th, and needs to be embarrased by it, and hopefully motivated to actually get some hits and not leave near a DOZEN man on base!
That is what cost the braves the game. Not the pitching or the pen (who’s been overused like nobody’s business).
Apparently people mistake criticism and sitting a player down, moving them down in the batting order for trashing a player. They are 2 completely different things.
I’m a Kelly Johnson fan, but he needs to sit tonight. Period. He needs to be tought a lesson. Bobby needs to man up and call out some of these guys, if not in public, then in private and tell them this kind of play is not going to be tolerated, if it happens there are going to be consequences.
Right now FRANCINE knows he can go 0 for 5 with 5K and BOBBY will still call him the second coming of Dale Murphy, and bat him 5 or 6 in the order.
There is something fundamentally wrong with this kind of thinking!
PS…FRANK WREN, please work a trade soon and get Jeff out of here, and bring in a young stud pitcher to bolster the rotation.
By David-ATL14
June 7, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
A long overdue rebuke for the man with the moniker that doesn’t fit.
mr baseball.
Kudos DOB!
mr baseball never has a name done more diservice to a character than yourself.
By JEB
June 7, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
DOB
What are McCann’s stats in the same time frame??
What are McCann’s stats for this year?? Who is more consistent between them right now? Can you make the comparision there?
By chrisklob
June 7, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
Random
Just tryin’ to give you your props — credit where credit is due. (We can’t all be funny — you should reconcile yourself to that, and resign yourself to simply enjoying and appreciating the humor of others.)
Say something funny and I promise you that you’ll get a big belly laugh out of me. (Note: I’ve been reading you for months now and can’t recall that you’ve ever been successful at being funny). I’ve never considered myself to be a comic. Apparently you do. Perhaps much of what you write here would be funny if you were saying the words out loud but it doesn’t translate to the blog.
Or maybe I just don’t appreciate your sense of humor. Much like you don’t appreciate mine. Whatever little tiny bit there may be.
By Interested Observer
June 7, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
FYI, the Royals got Brayan Pena through waivers and outrighted him to Triple-A.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this
Gregor Blanco is 5-for-34 (.147) with runners in scoring position, second-worst among NL qualifiers, albeit a distant second.
Andruw Jones: 1-for-33 (.030) with RISP. Mind-boggling.
By Braveheart
June 7, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
Will you guys please stop with the Blanco for leadoff campaign?
Blanco is hitting .222 with a .308 SLG over his last 34 games since April 27th which includes 108 at bats. He is also striking out once every 4 at bats. He gets some walks but that is only because he bats 8th in front of the pitcher. Give it up with the Blanco for leadoff campaign.
He had one hot 6 game stretch from April 18th until April 25th. He was 11 for 20 during that stretch. For the rest of the year, in 114 at bats, he is hitting .219 with a .307 SLG
So why do any of you want Blanco hitting leadoff? Because he was hot for 6 games almost 2 months ago but has otherwise stunk?
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
JEB, here’s a couple more stats I just stumbled upon: Teixeira’s 12 RBI over the past 10 days are tied for the major league lead in that span. And his team-high .394 average in late-and-close situations ranks ninth in the NL and 13th in the majors.
Mac’s having a terrific year, as I pointed out yesterday. Sensational. But moving Tex from cleanup makes no sense. Not now. It did a month ago.
By A-ville Ranger
June 7, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
Jim Mckay was the closest thing to ubiquitous in sports before ESPN,the internet,etc.You old (or late middle age)dogs remember when ABC was the closest thing to a sports network we had.Mckay was tireless,informative and entertaining.I hope there’s a playing field and microphone where he is.
By Random
June 7, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
chrisklob —
Ditto for you — I’m certainly not loath to give you as much credit as you do me.
I’m sure were we ever to meet and watch a game together, we’d have each other rolling in the aisles, in stitches.
But note — I never said I was funny (or did I?), only that you weren’t (and that was joking).
And now I can’t even remember why I started that riff — thanks though for helping me keep it going. You’re a great straight man.
And you know baseball better than me.
And the headwaters of the Verde River are a series of springs fed by groundwater from a large regional aquifer(s) which are the primary source of water for the first 29 miles of the upper perennial reach of the Verde River. (That was for you, Crabby Bill.)
By BosnianBaller
June 7, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this
This has to be the worst outfield by far the Braves have ever had since ‘91.No power whatsoever.J.Anderson has to get some starts and hit leadoff and cause some havoc on the bases because Frenchy,Blanco,Norton can’t cut it.
By A-ville Ranger
June 7, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
Regarding the post on whether an artist views should matter in your choice of music,films ,etc.My view is as long as it isn’t part of the act it doesn’t effect my taste.There are bands like ”Dave Mathews” who are so heavy handed I would like to see them give it a rest and focus more on making appealing music.I’ll confess ”Toby Keith” and Ted Nugent” are hard to stomach.That has more to do with their lack of talent,but they do annoy the hell out of me.
By Braveheart
June 7, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
You know it’s a bad loss when there are 717 posts in a 24 hour period in early June on a Friday night/Saturday morning.
By mr baseball
June 7, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
The approved MIB blog lineup for today:
Blanco
Escobar
Chipper
Tex (or McCann)
McCann (or Tex)
Norton
Infante
Anderson
No Johnson. No Francouer. A real powerhouse bottom of the order that I’m sure will strike fear into Kendrick’s heart.
Manuel sat Rollins because he didn’t hustle, not because he screwed up. If he used the brilliant logic floated by some of the knee-jerk reacting geniuses on here, Ryan Howard and his .200 average would have had his rear end nailed to the bench long ago.
You want to point out Francouer’s disappointing numbers this season, fine. No problem with that. He’s clearly struggling at the plate. But if anyone on here really thinks Infante or Norton is a better option in RF, you’re as deluded as the guy who fills out the lineup card every day.
The negative reactions aimed at Francouer and Johnson have little do with their numbers and a lot to do with the short attention spans of some bloggers on here, who can’t remember much past the most recent game. If memory serves, Francouer has a couple of game winning homers the last 2 weeks or so, but I guess everyone’s already forgotten them.
Kelly’s doing an adequate job at 2B, but because he drops a pop-up, let’s bench him. That’ll show him. And while Cox is at it, he never did punish Chipper for his 2 boots against the Reds. Let’s sit him down, too.
Ya’ll want to disagree with my occasionally acerbic opinions, go for it. But to fall back on O’Brien’s (and others) lame-a$$ comebacks by taking righteous umbrage at my tongue-in-cheek screen name is pretty weak.
I’m guessing there’s lots of Republican types on here. When you strongly disagree with someone, instead of refuting their argument, just launch a personal attack. Or twist/misinterpret their words and respond to what you choose to believe they said.
Denizens of this blog are fortunate to have a very skilled beat writer driving it (by far the best the AJC has had since the late ’80s), but like all beat writers, he has to tread lightly on some topics, which is where the rest of us come in.
It’s always enlightening to see what critical comments get DOB cheesed off and which ones he lets slide. He lets on that he doesn’t much care what’s said on here, but methinks he doth protest a little much in that regard, as our old friend Bob might ruminate.
By Shamus Thacker
June 7, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
Ummmm, Reality Rex, maybe a name change is in order. Hows about Insanity Rex?
By chrisklob
June 7, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
Random
*And now I can’t even remember why I started that riff *
I don’t know either. However, in spite of the fact that we have had very little if any conversation, you have brought it up on several occasions.
Let’s drop it. This seems like an exercise in futility.
By Chop Chop
June 7, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
HURT
(as sung by Kelly Johnson after last night’s debacle)
I dropped a ball today It hit right off the heel. I should have used two hands, And now it’s pain I feel.
The bloggers tear a hole: A new one in my seat I explain it all away But my attempts are incomplete.
(Chorus)
What have I become, My bloggin’ friends? Every ball I boot bites my a* In the end. And you will give me hell For my E4s and worse, But I won’t let you down… I will make you hurt.
I wear this baseball cap Upon my sweaty hair. Full of broken thoughts I cannot repair. Beneath the stains of sweat, The feelings disappear. Hey! Here’s another ball! I’ll boot it over…there!
(Chorus)
What have I become, My bloggin’ friends? Every ball I boot bites my a* In the end. And you will give me hell For my E4s and worse. Oh, I won’t let you down. I will make you hurt.
If I could field again That ball I botched today I’d still boot that ball I would find a way.
By TexasBrave
June 7, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
Braveheart agree with your last. I just think Escobar is a better fit in the two hole position. Neither Blanco, Anderson nor KJ excite me leading off. I do believe Anderson needs to start some games. That does diminish some of our power, but we were not getting much anyway. Might as well improve our defense, speed and batting average that Anderson will give us over Norton and Infante.
The problem is with KJ batting second, who to put 6th? Since Anderson and Blanco will not drive many runs in that means Bobby will put Frenchy in the 6th hole and not the 7th or 8th where he belongs right now.
Man I can’t believe how much Kotsay’s bat is being missed right now.
By faninFaytown
June 7, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
Supes, personally i dont think kelly needs any “punishment”. I am fairly confident that he was punished enough last night with the outcome. And I also hesitate to compare a botched play to “Rollings” not running out a popup. Yes, it was a terrible play, but terrible plays happen. If you say he should be benched then just about everyon on the team should other chipper and Hudson. Everyone here agrees on the Frenchy thing but I’m just not sure how much moving him down helps with the lineup we have. He has not been nearly as clutch this year as at soem points before, but im not sure if I would rather put him 8th to move up.. Blanco? No question though Mac should be in the 5 hole and stay there.
By Shaun
June 7, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
I’m guessing there’s lots of Republican types on here. When you strongly disagree with someone, instead of refuting their argument, just launch a personal attack. Or twist/misinterpret their words and respond to what you choose to believe they said.
Do you really think bringing up political parties helps you in your baseball discussions?
I don’t think personal attacks are a Republican or Democratic thing; it’s a tool used by folks with intellectual short-comings. You know, the type of people that try to insult others by calling them “Republican types” or a “Democratic types.”
That just shows how week someone is at making a valid and logical argument. So if I’m a Democrat and you call me a Democratic type or if I’m a Republican and you call me a Republican type, am I supposed to be insulted? It’s a rather stupid way to construct an argument.
By TennesseePaul
June 7, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
Last night’s game was snatched from the jaws of victory. It was brutal. But it didn’t end there. I took off to downtown LB for a Rhythm Lounge show. Never been to this place before so I was interested. I should have known.
The band was a friend of a friend of a friend. I’d never heard them. They were described as a mix between Tool and Pink Floyd. I couldn’t hear it. Couldn’t even imagine it. But I headed out anyway. Couldn’t sit around and read the re-caps of a game like last night. Needed to just brush that one off.
So I headed to the venue. The cover was large for a local act. The layout of the place was awkward at best. The tap was under refrigerated resulting in over priced warm Stella’s being served in plastic cups. They did have about 15 power fans and two Super Blaster 6000 AC machines in the room. Along with some sort of fairy tale like theme with large white balloon’s hanging from the ceiling and high backed sofas and chairs on the outer rims of the floor. It was an odd set up.
The band started. They didn’t sound like Tool or Pink Floyd. I’m not sure what they were trying to do. I’m not sure I’ll ever know. Not 2 measures into the second “song” small fires started popping up around the room. Then, all the power blew out. The house lights came up. The extinguishers were put into action. Forty-five minutes of the venue flipping switches and changing plugs resulted in about 20 second intervals of the remaining 3 songs the band attempted to perform.
It was the single worst show I’ve ever seen. And the place wouldn’t even refund the large fee they charged. They handed out a voucher for free admittance to a future date. I should have known.
By Mr J
June 7, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
I would like to see either Blanco or Anderson leading off for a while. I don’t know that either of them will prove to be capable, but in both cases that is the spot in the order they are used to. They’ve been lead-off hitters throughout their minor league careers, so if they’re ever going to be comfortable and productive in a major league lineup wouldn’t it be there?
Play Norton in left batting 6th behind McCann, with KJ 7th and Francoeur 8th (at least until Frenchy snaps out it).
You never know, one of those guys might step up and get the job done. And if they can’t, then at least we know that and can get serious about a trade. Kotsay is not the answer, and continuing to square pegs into round holes at the top of the order will only make matters worse.
By Random
June 7, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
Great stuff!!!, mr baseball.
chrisklob: “I don’t know [why you started that riff] either… . Let’s drop it. This seems like an exercise in futility.”
Futility, or FUNtility???
Drop it, huh? I dunno — I usually have 3 or 4 reasons for everything I do, whether I remember them or not. I think I’d rather dig back through the old blogs and perhaps refresh my memory.
(But I haven’t forgotten your snide, misdirected mama’s boy jibes, either, off-target though they turned out to be.)
Drop it? We’ll see.
PS: The first 29 miles of the upper perennial reach of the Verde River support approximately 800 riparian acres with an average discharge of approximately 25 ft3/sec. You still with us, Crabby Bill?
PPS: I will admit that Shaun is the undisputed, absolute KING of humorlessness around here, which takes nothing away from his indefatigable researching and timely, well-reasoned and articulate insights (though he can err occasionally).
Humorlessness is not the ultimate insult you make it out to be. Perhaps I just struck a nerve with you.
And I do recognize and applaud the “tiny bit” of self-deprecating humor and/or sarcasm evidenced here:
*”Or maybe I just don’t appreciate your sense of humor. Much like you don’t appreciate mine. Whatever little tiny bit there may be.”
and here:
“But that’s only because I don’t have any sense of humor.”
You’re not entirely humorless, after all, now are you?
Friends?
PPPS: Hurt’s so good, Chop Chop!
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 7, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
In the words of Kelly Johnson:
“It’s just one of those things that doesn’t happen,” Johnson said. “It’s not supposed to happen. It doesn’t happen. That’s all I can say. It’s probably the worst feeling somebody can feel on a baseball field, outside of it being a playoff game. But in a way, this was our playoff game.”
Hey son, here is some advice from a little league Coach.
Next time, USE BOTH HANDS ! It works wonders.
By Kelly Johnson
June 7, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
Coach, I would use two hands but it’s useless. It would take at least FIVE HANDS to cover that big, stupid clueless mouth of yours.
By JEB
June 7, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
* Ok DOB - time to move TEX to the 4th spot!*
By TennesseePaul
June 7, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
The Royals also sent switch-hitting catcher Brayan Pena outright to Triple-A Omaha. Pena was claimed off waivers from the Atlanta Braves on May 30.
Looks like the Royals were able to get Pena through waivers. Apparently the only team that had interest was the Royals…
By NCBravesFan
June 7, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
You know, you hear the stories about “Little League Parents Gone Wild” and wonder how in the hell people could be so clueless, petty & stupid about a game. And then you read bloggers on here suggesting how Kelly and others should be “punished” for making mistakes and it all makes sense.
Folks, there’s nothing you could do to KJ, Escobar or Frenchy that’s going to serve as punishment that’s any more severe than what they’re experiencing now.
And if they’re uncoachable or that clueless or careless about the game, “punishing” won’t help them anyway. The only answer in the case of players like that (which I don’t think applies to any of the Braves we’re talking about) is to get rid of them.
People fail, and as frustrating as it may be for us to watch, it’s even more frustrating for guys who have a lot of pride and make mistakes such as what we saw last night.
Lighten up folks. The sun rose this morning, and it’s my fervent hope it will continue to do so, whether or not the Braves win or lose.
By monty
June 7, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
I seem to remember Tony Romo muffing a field goal snap that cost Dallas going to the Super Bowl a couple of years ago. I don’t think the coach sat him out the first game of the next season to “teach him a lesson.” you don’t bench players for a one time goof up if they are trying. It seems to me there were alot of goof-ups last night.You could name at least 4-5 players that if they had done this or done that they win. Kelly’s was just the most obvious.
By rupert
June 7, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
DOB, what are the impressions you are getting about anderson from the braves brass since he has been up? seems like a keeper, but cox seems to prefer norton
By Shamus Thacker
June 7, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
Random, I wasn’t accusing, I was opining…
How the Hell else do you explain summa the bizarre goins-on going on.
In my humbler than road kill opinion, I’d say maybe crack, acid, x, or PCP.
All’athem old New Yawk Yankees have a wild side….
By cabravesfan
June 7, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
NCBravesFan You are totally spot on- I agree 100%- Mistakes happen and people need to let it go and move on- KJ, Escobar and Francoeur are all very talented, very young players and they will all be very valuable for the Braves for a long time.
By Random
June 7, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this
Well, I’m off to the game — y’all look for me in 404R.
McFann, if I get a foul ball, you may consider it yours. (As long as I get to keep it.)
;->
By Shamus Thacker
June 7, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
Course I’m joking bout the drugs; well, all cept one. Alkyhawlllll!!!
Bobby’s as red-faced as Uncle Ewless [pronounced Youless, like you give a $hit] at times. Course Bobby’s usually pretty teed-off too, so that could be a cause of the redness. Hell, it could be the color on my damn TV for all I freakin know. Thangs get more bizarre by the minute; I do know that.
By raindawg722
June 7, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
Random, I was at the game, and I don’t think he was running hard to his left, not hard enough that it would have prevented from putting his other hand up to his glove. It appeared to me as he was going back that was kind of battling the ball a little bit. Maybe the wind was messing with him. Maybe he was losing his balance and he couldn’t get his hand up.
Anyway, my intent in posting was not to criticize Kelly. He is a good player and I admire how hard he has worked trying to make himself a major league second baseman. I don’t think he should be benched. My intent was to find out if there is any particular reason that the Braves or most other major league teams apparently don’t instruct their players to use two hands to catch a fly ball or popup. I only played organized baseball ball up until high school and we were always told to use two hands. As I said earlier, even after the play, Blanco and Anderson made a couple of catches one-handed. Apparently Kelly only using one hand when he dropped the ball didn’t make much of an impression on them.
By McFann
June 7, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this
OK, Random. Yeah, you keep it.
: J
By nolie
June 7, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
Imo, given the context of the discussion, this is a far-fetched intepretation of what he said, and one that should certainly have been early dispelled as the discussion continued. That’s why I kept thinking y’all were either just giving him a hard time for S&G, or deliberately nit-picking.Random
I guess you are right. Even a few years ago I would not have misinterpreted it to begin with or would have noticed immediately. The unfortunate truth, at least in my case, is as I have gotten into my 60s and my health has deteriorated some, I get some senior moments once in awhile now. No matter how high your IQ,agile your mind and retentive your memory was as a younger person most of us reach a point where we are forgetful sometimes and sometimes it’s kinda like your mind goes on auto-pilot once in awhile and you just don’t think quite as sharp for a period. Guess that is my excuse for being slow picking up my misinterpretation of his statement. Sorry I over-reacted to your post and got a little whiney. I’m gonna blame that on old age too.
By Deputy Dawg
June 7, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
Bobby Cox is the most overated mgr.ever in baseball.He’s everybody’s pappy, and players are dragging a*. He was a loser the first time he was here. That’s why they sent him packing to Toranto or wherever. He rode the best pitching staff in baseball and still couldn’t win but one WS. AS long as he’s here, expect this kind of play.Get a mgr. who’ll raise a little hell in the duggout and bench some asses when when they drag it. BOBBY..go home and sit on the couch and pick your nose..get us a mgr. whose a mean SOB
By Justin
June 7, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this
real lineup…
Philadelphia Pos Player HR RBI AVG SS Rollins, Jimmy 3 18 .284 CF Victorino, Shane 2 16 .289 2B Utley, Chase 21 55 .313 1B Howard, Ryan 15 44 .206 LF Burrell, Pat 14 40 .276 RF Werth, Jayson 9 26 .260 3B Feliz, Pedro 8 30 .249 C Ruiz, Carlos 1 15 .224 P Kendrick, Kyle (5-2, 5.00)
Atlanta Pos Player HR RBI AVG SS Escobar, Yunel 6 28 .300 2B Johnson, Kelly 6 26 .295 3B Jones, Chipper 14 39 .421 1B Teixeira, Mark 9 43 .275 C McCann, Brian 12 37 .307 RF Francoeur, Jeff 7 36 .249 CF Blanco, Gregor 1 8 .269 LF Anderson, Josh 0 1 .357 P Reyes, Jo-Jo (2-3, 4.78)
By Shamus Thacker
June 7, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this
Ole Polk County boy caught Chipper’s #400. Here’s the kicker though; he GAVE the ball to Chipper. Chipper gave guy/son the #400 bat.
Worked out pretty well for both sides, and pretty typical of the people who reside here. In Polk County, that is…
Gotta run!
Aloha from the carbon-monoxide-swept ruts and ditches of Cedartown…
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
Couple things after getting back up from the clubhouse and field:
Anderson is in left field batting eighth, Blanco in center batting seventh, everything else as usual — Yunel followed by Kelly, etc….
SORIANO was supposed to pitch the ninth, but told Eddie Perez his elbow was sore after warming up. So they had to adjust and went with Boyer. Cox didn’t know if Soriano would be ready tonight, presumably has to wait until he warms up to see. That’s a problem, obviously, unless and until he gets back to 100 percent healthy….
Talked to SNITKER about Escobar’s bonehead move. When ball was hit they obviously didn’t know if it’d be a hit or right to the LF, so Snit said “tag” and then turned his attention more to Chipper, because he was going to have to decide whether to send him if it was a hit. When Snitker saw Yunel take four or five “hard” steps down the line while ball was in air, he knew it was too late for him to be able to come back and tag, but he also said he didn’t even know if most players could hear the coach in that circumstance, with everything going on and the crowd yelling, etc.
Short of going out to the line and holding up a stop sign (which he’d probably do if he had it to do over, I’m guessing), Snitker didn’t know what else he could’ve done. But when he saw Yunel take off after tagging, Snit just assumed that he was trying to draw a throw from the OF, to try to get him to make an errant throw home. Had no idea he was actually trying to score, since, as you guys probably noticed on replay, it didn’t really look like Yunel was taking off with any great urgency and tearing toward the plate.
When he realized Yunel was going to try to score, Snitker said to himself, “Oh, no.”…
Heard a few stories about coaches who were ready to shake Bobby’s hand and didn’t even see the popup squirt out of Kelly’s glove. Everyone (including me) just assumed it’d be caught and turned to proceed to next order of business. Great story about scout Bruce Benedict (yes, same one), who shut his briefcase and was out the door of pressbox when the popup as in the air, the he heard the crowd gasp and he turned and came back to see the second runner trying to score on the play.
Crazy, crazy night.
And yes, I talked to Francoeur. Doing a note on him and his struggles. Gotta get writing now.
By Shamus Thacker
June 7, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
Wonder if Dad knows Bobby is my Pappy???
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 7, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
Random
You know — I admit that the 2 strikes thing is a myth. It has never happened to me in a game as a player or an ump. But your right and I should have known that. I thought I already said that but I guess not.
See this is the part about this blog that cracks me up. At 3am I was just trying to find something to talk about other than KJ’s bone-head play. I googled for an explanation and stuck it out there for the dude. I used Wiki b/c I thought that the explanation was as simple as you could get. If I had been more awake I would have edited it a little but you know I figured if he had to ask the blog maybe he didn’t know how to find his answer on the internet. So instead of just saying thanks they both gotta start a “who’s on first?” type discussion. I thought they might be deliberately acting stupid but in my rush to help the handicapped I forgot that you just can’t increase a person’s IQ level. I had Wiki on another tab already open so I used it and for doing so I have now found another foil on the blog to duel with.
As far as “setting him straight” goes, I am trying not to get banned by the blogGOD so I have tempered my language on here a lot. If it were really open season I would have given the readers something to wake’em up in the morning. LOL
By Crabby Bill
June 7, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this
You people make me sick,what a bunch of knuckle draggers.You’re like butt hernias,only duller.GO BRAVES !!
By Greg in TN
June 7, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this
Hopefully Soriano’s soreness abates for tonight’s game, and I’m quite happy to see KJ in the lineup for the game tonight (I think a benching would not do much to help the situation, the effort was there).
Really hope to see Reyes pitch well tonight. He’s 1-1 with a 2.77 ERA in his last two appearances, so to see him go 7 strong would be a shot in the arm.
Da’Tara spoils the triple crown for Big Brown at the Belmont.
Rest in peace Jim McKay. He had the emotionally excruciating job of informing the world of the tragedy in Munich in ‘72, but was eloquent and classy in all that he did with ABC. He will be missed.
By Chop Chop
June 7, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this
What can Big Brown do you?
Finish last in the Belmont (the first winner of the Kentucky Derby and Preakness to pull off that ignominous feat).
So, yet another Triple Crown averted.
By cabravesfan
June 7, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop if you had watched the race you would have seen that Big Brown’s jockey pulled him up midway through the race…something was wrong with him
By McFann
June 7, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this
That hitting game is addicting! My best so far is 10-20.
By A-ville Ranger
June 7, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
Shamus Thacker I’m from Cedartown but haven’t lived in Ga in 17 years.I had a guy at Rivals from Rockmart try to draw me into a ”p** off” by repeatedly making derogatory comments about C-Town.My response was I wasn’t going to allow one jackass to get me throwing insults at the town.My ex-wife was born and raised in Rockmart,but I don’t hold THAT against the whole town either.Just kidding, she is a good person.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
A shock collar might be in order for a certain talented but overly aggressive shortstop, who seems to think he’s got tremendous speed.
By TJ
June 7, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this
Escobar’s now 2 of 6 stealing bases… and I don’t know how to find out how many other outs he’s made on the basepaths, but it’s been several.
You’re hitting in front of some pretty good bats, Yunel. Let’s sit tight and try station to station for a while.
By Austin
June 7, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this
I think Jo-Jo should have jumped up and down like a cheerleader after striking out Victirino.
By LuisGuillermo
June 7, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this
and Yunel gets caught stealing…
By A-ville Ranger
June 7, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this
As strong as Escobar is defensively he counters it with the worst base running I can remember from a Brave in recent years.On that steal attempt he stood almost strait up while looking for the throw.A Spanish speaking coach needs to explain to him(firmly) that he’s both giving away precious outs and critical base runners.This isn’t like Mac who can’t help his lack of speed,as Bobby said about last night, ”he’s just giving it away”.
By LuisGuillermo
June 7, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this
McFann seems to be a pretty good hitter. My best score is 9-20 and 53-200 overall (.265 avg), not bad huh? (higher than Ryan Howard’s Pedro Feliz’s and Francoeur’s avg)
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this
Austin kind of agree with you. Not 100%, but more than 80%. Sometimes pressing too much can have the opposite result that you are after.
But having 2 speedister to hit at the bottom of the lineup is just a plain BAD decision.
Having Jeff hitting anywhere but 8th is a mistake at this moment.
Having McCann hit anywhere but 5th is a mistake.
Not using stockman or resop (while he was in the roster) is a mistake since your other arms are gonna blow up to the sky before august.
Trying to get Acostas confidence back last night was a mistake.
Not benching KJ as much a he deserves (tonight is an example) is a mistake.
Stoopid squeeze play to get 1 run against a team thats able to score 5 in a blink of an eye???? dumb!!
The list goes on and on and on.
Of course player have their share, tons. But right now McDowell looks smarter and more helpful to the braves than bobby does.
Understand that it is pretty difficult not to win a division if you have a rotation that has maddux, glavine and smoltz and you add to that some good arms short stands.
If he is so damn good a manager, how come braves had such bad season last 2 season?
If he is so damn good how can this team have such great number to be in the top 3 in so many categories and still be in 3rd place and in danger of being in 4th by week ends.
Too many weapons, bad results…… that spells bad execution.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
Im not sure why in the world bobby does not tries either Blanco or Anderson to leadoff. I mean, how bad can they be. They have showed they can get on base.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this
Personally I dont mind (not at all) that yunel is overly aggressive on the bases. Somebody has to be like that. Rest of the braves look like mummies on the bases. Maybe Blanco and Anderson can learn something from him, I sure hope so.
Let the guy play baseball like he knows, he has showed baseball is a way of life for him.
The only running mistake I can recall was last night tag from 3rd. Besides that, only good aggressive baseball. At least he gets on base and tries to do something about it.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this
Time to sit jeff again….. let Blanco play RF.
By Epinephrine
June 7, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
This is the pitcher you hoped Jojo could become, but didn’t know if he had the mental stuff to get there. I mean comparing him last year to this year, its just uncanny. He is finding the zone, and he looks so confident. Its huge for the Bravos.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this
WTF isnt JoJo bunting?
Come on cox… what is this team doing???????
Thats suicide.
By Jeff321
June 7, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
I think KJ missed the pitch on a hit and run when Yunel got caught stealing. With that said, I fully admit Yunel is a terrible base runner.
Oh, and I wonder how Frenchy feels since Anderson came up and stroked a single after he got caught looking at the third strike?
By Ken Brave
June 7, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this
Yunel!!!! Come on. Is Bobby sending him or is he allowed to go whenever he wants to? Is Otis Nixon still alive?
This was the best thing I read about last nights game and about Yunel’s base running. Funny piece…
http://bravesnuworld.com/
By Austin
June 7, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this
I want to go to a Braves game just so I can boo Francine.
By A-ville Ranger
June 7, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this
DOB I like the ”shock collar” idea,will it get past the players union though ?
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this
Oh, and I wonder how Frenchy feels since Anderson came up and stroked a single after he got caught looking at the third strike? Jeff321
Jeff feels exactly nothing, he is confident Cox will play him even if he hits .200. So the answer is…. he is not worried.
By StingerSplash
June 7, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
Did anyone else think that the Braves’ inability to deliver with the bases loaded (Francoeur had one poor at-bat and later did his job by hitting the ball hard to outfield, only to have Escobar pull a brain cramp), plus the two late-inning baserunning gaffes (Escobar and Ohman) were going to come back to haunt them. Some poor fundamental baserunning and for a team that used to be so good at bunting, the Braves are now awful at that endeavor. They had spring training, right? (We know, DOB, we know about your six weeks of penance at Dark Star. The question is rhetorical in nature). Against a team like the Phillies, maybe you can live with squandering a chance or two in a game. But not a half-dozen, and it showed. My fear is last night’s game may become this year’s equivalent of the Sunday afternoon finale at PNC Park a year ago, when the Braves were 24-12, went to 24-13 after their getting tails handed to them, and never recovered. They need to bounce back and beating the Phils tonight could do it.
By McFann
June 7, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
Thanks, LuisGuillermo. But the thing says I “could be better”. Heck, I was higher than Chipper! (LOL)
Yer not too bad yourself!
By chrisklob
June 7, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
Great. A five pitch inning. What’s the rush people? You got a date after the game?
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
Sad to see but Francoeur has put himself in a position that he is easily the worst hitter among regulars. Only Corky is worse than him. Gotay at least is patient, low BA but good OBP compared to his BA.
By TURTSNAP
June 7, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this
1 hit through 4, glad to see the Braves came out on a mission to put last night behind them
By Andy
June 7, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this
Why have the Braves always let these wash up, back up, or weak hitting catchers nail us year after year? Ramon Castro, Mike Redmond, Brian Schnieder, Carlos Ruiz, Chris Coste, Matt Treanor, etc. All of these guys have either given the Braves a really hard time, or just plain killed us. Unbelievable. We have done better the past two years or so with pitchers we have never seen before. We use to NEVER be able to beat up on some recent call-up pitcher.
Now we just can’t win one run games. So frustrating. Anyone else notice the issue with the back-up catchers nailing us?
By TURTSNAP
June 7, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this
1 hit through 5, beat goes on. Reyes actually has had two of the better AB’s of the evening. Wonder if he can play LF?
By kirknga
June 7, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
It’s good to see the Braves aggressive on the bases tonight. I hope they keep it up. You gotta love Chipper stealing another base.
As far as Escobar, the guy has speed, it’s up to the coaching staff to coach him up. He’s an aggressive player and sometimes that is going to turn into out. But I will never get on a guy for hustling.
One of the things that makes the Phillies tough is that they have power and steal bases. I think if the Braves are coached properly they could use what speed they have to put more pressure on defenses.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this
Old Hoss still got a little shortstop in him, eh? Nice hop there. Had to wince watching him do it, though….
By A-ville Ranger
June 7, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this
Anybody,do the Braves have the option of sending Francoeur to the Minors ? If so which of their teams have the best hitting instructor ? I’m not thinking of punishing him but if he could go down with orders to ignore everything except working the pitcher smartly.No pressure to produce RBI,hard swings’etc just have smart at bats.
By Jeff321
June 7, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this
I’m watching the Rays/Rangers game.. Salty hits a foul ball grounder past third base and this rather large guy falls over the railing (trying to get the ball) and “clips” the poor ball girl on the way to the dirt!
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 7, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
BOOOOOOOOOOOO !
BOOOOOOOOOOOO !
BOOOOOOOOOOOO !
BOOOOOOOOOOOO !
BOOOOOOOOOOOO !
BOOOOOOOOOOOO !
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this
Pat Burrell absolutely CRUSHED that ball, by the way.
By ugaman
June 7, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
Hey denizens,
It really sucks that none of these games are on tv outside of the Atlanta area. It seems like JoJo is pitching well tonight with a couple of mistakes. Is that the case or are the Phillies just missing pitches? Is Hendrickson really this good or are the bravos just sucking right now? I’m watching the stats on espn gamecast, but as many of you know, you can’t really get a feel for how the game is going that way. KJ just got a hit, so maybe this is our inning. We’ll see.
By chrisklob
June 7, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this
Attaboy Chipper! Put these guys on your back and carry them!
By Jeff321
June 7, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this
Slight correction. The guy up to bat for the Rangers was Catalanotto.. who bats before Salty. The lame Rays game on Rays TV doesn’t have CC and they look similar from the left side with long names!
By brent a.
June 7, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
Pretty good for a shortstop, eh?
By TURTSNAP
June 7, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
Scratch that, Chipper has the best swing tonight WOW!!!!
By LuisGuillermo
June 7, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
Chipper ties it!
By cabravesfan
June 7, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
Talk about crushing a ball…thank god for Chipper
By ugaman
June 7, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
I called that!!!!! Go Chipper!!!
By kirknga
June 7, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
CHIPPER!!
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
Just Clone this guy!!!!!!!!!!!!
Chipper is just a M O N S T E R
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
And Chipper absolutely CRUSHED that one, too….
Wow. I was just commenting to someone in the pressbox about how strange it seemed to see “.419” up there on the scoreboard next to 14 HR and 39 RBI, which tells you it’s deep in the season.
Now it’s .422, 15 HR and 41 RBIs. Astounding.
By SoWeGa Fanatic
June 7, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this
Chipper is on a mission.
By A-ville Ranger
June 7, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
This Jones kid could be a player.
By TennesseePaul
June 7, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
Unbelievable. How does he keep doing it?
By Andy
June 7, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
This just in: Francouer got a hit and found first base. Impressive. Even more impressive is that Manual took Kendrick out after Francouer got a hit off of him. haha.
By TURTSNAP
June 7, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
UGAMAN - Reyes is pitching really well, the pitch to Burrell actually was a pretty good pitch, Burrell went down and got it. Reyes has 7 K’s through 6, pretty good stuff tonight.
By cabravesfan
June 7, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this
ugaman if you have the inclination to fork over the money- Directv’s MLB package carries Peachtree TV…
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 7, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
GOOD JOB Bobby ! Let the pitcher bat with the bases loaded and the game on the line !
BOOOOOOOO !
BOOOOOOOO !
BOOOOOOOO !
By LuisGuillermo
June 7, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
McFann, you’re right. I just hit 11 out of 20 and the screen says “Not too bad but not that great either! Practice makes perfect, so keep at it!”. They want us to hit like crazy!!!
Seems like Chipper is ok with his groins and legs, since he’s been stealing bases lately.
Why is Jojo hitting with the bases loaded??? He gave us 6 very good innings, turn it to the bullpen! And now he grounds out to end the inning. I hope Jojo gets the zero in the top of the 7th and then we score a ton of runs in the bottom half.
By A-ville Ranger
June 7, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
In the bottom of the sixth, tie game,bases loaded in a damn near have to win game you can’t give the out to them by batting Reyes.I don’t care about the whys,you HAVE TO take your best shot in that situation in my opinion..
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
Ruiz has four of his 11 career homers vs. Braves; has no more than one against any other team.
By Jeff321
June 7, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
ugaman
According to the Directv channel list on Wiki. (I know great source, eh?) There is something called the Atlanta Braves channel in the sports pack. Anyway, here is what it says, “Regional coverage of Atlanta Braves games carried by Peachtree TV for the Atlanta Braves territory outside of Atlanta”
I guess this is similar to certain cable companies offering Braves games on local access channels or whatever.
By RW-(the original)
June 7, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
David O’Brien,
Assuming you’re at the game did anybody there notice that Jason Werth struck out in the 4th inning before he singled?
The sequence you see on MLB. com right now says Ball-Called Strike-Ball-Swinging Strike-Single, but if the rule Skip read is correct the very first pitch was where he swung and interfered with McCann. According to the rule they read on TV that first pitch when Utley ran should have been strike one.
By ugaman
June 7, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
Thanks Turtsnap, I was thinking the other day that it looks like Reyes has turned a corner. This game is going to do wonders for his confidence. It seems like he has finally realized that if you attack the strike zone and trust your catcher and defense, then ggod things happen. He has great stuff and may end up being a really good one to go with Hudason and Jiar to form a really solid top of the rotation staff. Bobby must really like what he is seeing from him tonight because he didn’t pinch hit for him in the bottom of the 7th with runners in scoring position. That really surprised me because Cox normally takes the pitcher out in that situation, especially the young ones.
By kirknga
June 7, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
Good job by Jo Jo tonight no matter how things turn out.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
Where are all the Reyes critics now? Dude’s pitched three consecutive quality starts, given up 13 hits and five runs in 20 innings over those three starts.
By SoWeGa Fanatic
June 7, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
Funny, many of the same folks calling for Kelly’s head, Frenchy’s heart, Bobby’s anything, etc. are the same ones who last year this time were wanting to see Chipper dealt, fired, dismembered, etc.
By AZ Braves Fan
June 7, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
Being a Tech man, it’s hard to admit, but I agree with ugaman — this bites. Can anyone explain why this game is not on Extra Innings? A) It wasn’t inside the FOX 7pm blackout cutoff; B) Phoenix is clearly not in the ATL market; C) I’ve paid my 159 bucks this year. It seems like I’ve only been able to get about 20% of the Bravos Sat games.
“Butt” Selig is gonna hear it from me!
By ugaman
June 7, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
cabravesfan, I’m an 35 year old returning full-time college student with a wife and two kids. Seeing how my wife absolutely hates watching sports, I don’t see me winning that battle given our need to pinch pennies and the price of liquid gold right now.
DOB, after watching Blanco put pressure on the defense in some of the past couple of games and Josh Anderson playing so well everytime he’s in the lineup, has anyone asked Bobby why he is staying with Yunel in the leadoff role when he hits so much better in the 2 hole and KJ hits so well in the 7 spot? I know a lot of the bloggers have been screaming for a change, but I was wondering if Bobby had given any indication of his thought process there.
By krakatoa
June 7, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
DOB, you have been talking up Tex, and it’s true he has about an RBI a game the last 20, but with Chipper being on base half the time, he should!
Tex is also hitting .209 right handed. No one is going to pitch to Chipper right handed(hitting .442) with Tex hitting that low…
By chrisklob
June 7, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
McFann and Luis, what hitting game are y’all talking about?
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this
Coach maybe Cox thinks JoJo will pitch a complete game, go figure.
But the truth is, it was early, but now in order not to look bad, he will have to let JoJo pitch 2 more.
By Crabby Bill
June 7, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
Overlord You don’t mind if Escobar is ”a little over aggressive on the bases”? have you lost your mind or did you ever have one ? The guy gives away outs like he gets bonus money for it.
By SoWeGa Fanatic
June 7, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
7IP 2ER 1BB 8K Where are the geniuses who wanted to ship out JoJo to Rome tonight?
By Dwight Fry
June 7, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
Can someone explain why Reyes hit with the bases loaded. After pitching 6 innings.
Where are all the weapons on our bench?
By cabravesfan
June 7, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
AZ Braves Fan- if you have direct TV you should get Peachtree- I’m in California and I get it with the MLB package
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
Chipper seemed to be favoring his right leg a bit during his long walk from down the first-base line back to his position between innings. We’ll see. Just moving real slowly right now out there.
By Andy
June 7, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
DOB: Nice stat on Ruiz. It doesn’t suprise me at all. See my 8:32pm post about the catchers…
By SoWeGa Fanatic
June 7, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this
That Peachtree bunch is ruining my TV watching!!!!!!! Oh, yeah - Dish, too.
By McFann
June 7, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this
Here you go, Klobber!
Enjoy!
McCann’s been gettin’ beat up in the shoulders tonight! Sheesh…
By cabravesfan
June 7, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this
ugaman totally understand- I dropped all the movie channels in order to get the MLB paskage so i could watch the Braves
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
By the way, before tonight Chipper was hitting .453 with a .564 OBP in his past 24 games, including 14 multi-hit games. And he was 10-for-16 with two homers in four consecutive multi-hit games before tonight.
By Jeff321
June 7, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
I think Jo Jo Reyes is a pretty good pitcher.. the problem was Cox kept sending to Richmond like a Yo Yo. Just about everyone has bad outings, but sticking with him seems to have paid off.
By StingerSplash
June 7, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this
You know, this Jones kid the Braves have might turn out to be pretty good. Think about it — the Braves potentially have three first-ballot HoF’ers on the team, even if one of them is done for the year (Smoltz).
By keylargo
June 7, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this
Anyone with Directv getting tired of the endless stream of advertising for Pay Per View fighting, wrestling, UFC, MMA, boxing and other assorted BS?
I guess they figure anyone who would pay $200 for the MLB package might also be dumb enough to pay $50 for a pay per view of double digit IQ’s beating the hell out of each other.
By SoWeGa Fanatic
June 7, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
Overlord, the bullpen is tired, remember. JoJo is going as good as he has all night. Plus, he ain’t a terrible hitter. That’s why.
By Sammy
June 7, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
Hey Braves fans lets get out there and vote McCann in as starting catcher he certainly deserves it over Soto. The cub fans are out voting so lets get McCann in. A NY fan club for McCann is great McCannyoudigit.com with a link to voting…We have till July 2 and yes he does his job quietly and deserves all our support. Lets not let the cubs fan show us up SEND MAC BAC to the All Star Game
By ijonathan
June 7, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
I think somebody mentioned a while ago on the blog that Braves outfielders, maybe Francouer specifically, were playing more in the gaps this year. Does that expalin why it takes Frenchy a half hour to waddle over to balls hit down the line?
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
Could feel that coming. Made a good pitch just off plate, but Utley spat on it, then cranked that ball to the RF corner.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 7, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
Well, there you go. Cox screwed up again.
He let Reyes bat with the bases loaded and wasted a great scoring opportunity to put this game away.
Jo-Jo runs out of gas and the Phillies take the lead. 3-2
Great job Bobby !
By cabravesfan
June 7, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
Keylargo- Dear God YES!!! Not only are they annoying beyond all else they are about 5 times louder in volume then the game…
By chrisklob
June 7, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
Thanks kid!
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
Well, there goes Reyes’ quality start.
By SoWeGa Fanatic
June 7, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
DOB, you would move slowly too if you were carrying 26 grown men on your back.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
See Cox…….are you learning……….?????????
baseloaded……….you pinch hit for the pitcher.
By ijonathan
June 7, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
Overall, I think Cox is pretty much useless as an in-game manager. However, the hits to Utley and Howard were simply two horribly located breaking pitches that most lefties could have raked. Execution.
By Dwight Fry
June 7, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
Giants beat Washington 6 - 0.
At least we’ll keep pace with the Nats.
By AZ Braves Fan
June 7, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
cabravesfan — thanks, but I’m on Cox cable. And I’ve gotten Peachtree game converage before, even this week.
But now as of this writing, it seems like another one to be happy I missed. It just makes my head hurt; time for beer and a dip in the pool.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
After not allowing any of the first 23 inherited runners to score this season, Ring’s allowed one each of the past two games.
By TennesseePaul
June 7, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Looks like it turned out to be 7 innings 4 runs. Just out of reach of the Quality Start.
By ijonathan
June 7, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
Is Jeff Francouer the “poor man’s” Pat Burrell?
By Crabby Bill
June 7, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
This team needs a fire brand manager right now.This season is slipping away very,very quickly.
By LuisGuillermo
June 7, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
chrisklob Here’s the link where you can find the game. It came out right after Chipper hit his 400th homer. At first I thought “I’ve never seen him came up empty that much” but then I got the timing a little bit. http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/stories/2008/05/20/baseballhitgame.html
By Braveheart
June 7, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this
I think somebody mentioned a while ago on the blog that Braves outfielders, maybe Francouer specifically, were playing more in the gaps this year. Does that expalin why it takes Frenchy a half hour to waddle over to balls hit down the line?
I think he was shaded towards the gap but I gotta agree that it looks like he is running in slow motion out there. When he first came up, it always seemed he liked he did everything a beat or two faster than everyone. Not anymore.
By ugaman
June 7, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this
DOB, after watching Blanco put pressure on the defense in some of the past couple of games and Josh Anderson playing so well everytime he’s in the lineup, has anyone asked Bobby why he is staying with Yunel in the leadoff role when he hits so much better in the 2 hole and KJ hits so well in the 7 spot? I know a lot of the bloggers have been screaming for a change, but I was wondering if Bobby had given any indication of his thought process there. Something needs to happen with the offense. Even though JoJo gave up four runs, it was still a really good outing by him. He just can’t seem to get any run support. It’s very frustrating to see the inconsistent play of this offense.
By chrisklob
June 7, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
Thanks Luis. McFann actually posted it a few minutes ago so I’ve been entertaining myself with it. Could be addicting……..
By keylargo
June 7, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
It will be like the old days tomorrow. WTBS is carrying the game at 1:30 EDT.
By Tomahawkin' Again (like it's 1995)
June 7, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
By the time the next homestand comes around on June 20th, Braves will be 35-39, 9 games out in 4th place. Are You Ready for some Football?!!!
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
Easy gang……..its still early…this team will wakeup…
yeah right.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 7, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
The three things that the Phillies have that the Braves don’t.
Lead off hitter, running game, closer.
If anyone was wondering why they keep beating us, those are the three reasons why the Phillies are superior to the Braves.
By SoWeGa Fanatic
June 7, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
Hey, knownuthins, Franchy has 40% of the team’s hits tonight.
By A-ville Ranger
June 7, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
You tell me that if this were the playoffs you wouldn’t pinch hit for the pitcher with the bases loaded in the sixth inning.This should have been managed like a playoff game.If ever a team is it’s own worst enemy this one is it.
By FloridaBrave
June 7, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
I’m not able to watch the game but how would you guys say Jo-Jo pitched? Stat-line doesn’t look amazing but it doesn’t look like the bullpen helped him out much.
By Edward
June 7, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
This is IT guys, THE season ENDED last night…and TONIGHT was JUST the dessert…WHAT A WASTE of talent this team* has been the last couple of years…too bad we have to wait until 2010 WHEN Mr.Cox retires and leaves THIS TEAM FOR THE BETTER!!!
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
SELL EVERYBODY……..BUY A NEW TEAM!!!!!!!!!!!!!
THEY ALL SOK,,,,
By chrisklob
June 7, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
Hey, knownuthins, Franchy has 40% of the team’s hits tonight.
Even a stopped clock is right twice a day.
By TennesseePaul
June 7, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
So… think Wren is pulling out the GM phone book to see if anyone is interested in Teixeira?
By keylargo
June 7, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
cabravesfan
Back in the 70’s Atlanta signed a Dodger free agent named Andy Messersmith. Ted Turner owned the Braves and WTBS who broadcast almost all 162 games back then. Anyway, his first home game Messersmith walks on the field with number 17 on his jersey and Channel where Messersmith should have been. Channel 17 got some free advertising for that game but MLB put a quick end to that.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 7, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
Nevertheless, Jo-Jo Reyes did pitch well. Hudson did even better last night and back to back solid pitching performances go for naught.
The lack of a true prototypical lead off hitter and running game is killing the offense against good pitching.
Cox is clueless and quite frankly, I have lost all confidence in the man.
By ijonathan
June 7, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
Hey, at least we can make sure Soriano has some rest tonight so maybe his elbow won’t give him any “discomfort” tomorrow.
By kirknga
June 7, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
At least it will not be a 1-run loss. Just wish it hadn’t been close until late cause that just makes it hurt.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
If Braves keep losing close games and have tons (no a few) of games that should have been won…….whos fault is it?
I suppose its francoeur……yeah right.
Cox……. go dedicate your life to something else, baseball is not your stuff anymore(as if it ever was).
By Teddy Jack Eddy
June 7, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
Bye,bye Braves,hello Dawgs.
By Austin
June 7, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
OH MY GAWD! Phil Stockman is actually on the damn team!
Good God Almighty
By Tomahawkin' Again (like it's 1990)
June 7, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
DOB, when you made your predictions for the season back in March and picked the Braves to win the East, did you really believe that, or just had to write that since you are a beat writer for the team? Let me add something to what Coach typed about the differences between the Phils and us: A lack of fundamentals and right now, a colossial lack of heart also separates the teams.
By cabravesfan
June 7, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
Keylargo- that sounds like a Ted Turner idea…I kinda love it:)
By StingerSplash
June 7, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
In hockey terms, Rollins just delivered the crusher.
By McFann
June 7, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
You’re welcome, Klobber. It’s a pretty fun game.
This’ll be the first series loss at home since they opened the season with the Pirates.
Night, all!!
By ijonathan
June 7, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
Is anybody else out there starting to get a little bit tired/frustrated with some of Escobar’s “antics”?
If I was on the other team, I’d be tempted to put him on his azz numerous times.
Of course, I have all the confidence in the world that the stern hand of Uncle Bobby will whip him into shape.
By ijonathan
June 7, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
Is anybody else out there starting to get a little bit tired/frustrated with some of Escobar’s “antics”?
If I was on the other team, I’d be tempted to put him on his azz numerous times.
Of course, I have all the confidence in the world that the stern hand of Uncle Bobby will whip him into shape.
By FloridaBrave
June 7, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
The Phillies are the better team. Their offense is just fantastic and Lidge is back to being one of the best closers in the game.
Tommorow’s game is as close to a must win as you can get at this point in the season.
By monty
June 7, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
Bobby should of pinch hit for Reyes in the 6th , You can’t beat the Phillies on 2 runs! You have to out score them. He did the same crap THursday night with a chance to score some runs late he let Jurjens bat for himself with 2 outs and runners on . As it turned out the Braves won the game and all was well, but everyone sitting around me was in disbelief. Jurjens had given up 11 hits at that point and 5 runs. I understand trying to save your bullpen but when you have a chance to put a team away don’t you have to try to do so? Especially after the 5th inning.
By Jeff321
June 7, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
Great time to bring Stockman in, donkey! Why wait until its 6-2? Oh right, ya very well can’t have him come in and pitch better than the rest of those rejects.. minus Bennett/Ring.
By TJ
June 7, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
Frenchy squibs a 7-bouncer up the middle for a single, and Joe Simpson calls it a great at-bat.
Okay.
By Greg
June 7, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
Another awful game. Another game in which BC lets the starter go way too long. No way Reyes should have come out in the eight. We’ll be 6.5 games out of first by the end of tomorrow and heading out on the road to face the best teams in baseball. Maybe we should hold a fire sale.
By DSan
June 7, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
F^^^ those idiot Braves.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 7, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
IM GETTING USED TO 3RD AND 4TH PLACE ALREADY……
By Teddy Jack Eddy
June 7, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
I think energy from the top is a problem.I just think Bobby is out of gas.This season will be effectively over by the end of the month.
By Coach's Mouth Writes Checks His Team Can't Cash
June 7, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
March 31, 2008 2:10 AM | Link to this
What I predicted five months ago and now firmly believe more than ever, THIS IS A PLAYOFF CALIBER BASEBALL TEAM.
And you can take that to the damn bank and cash it.
By JEB
June 7, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
You can tell it’s June!
By AA
June 7, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
I hate to say it but this may be the nail in the Braves coffin. After the Phillies, they play the Cubs (ON THE ROAD….GASP) and the Angels. Already 5.5 games back this could get really ugly quick. Its going to be a long summer. Aside from Chipper and Mac, the Braves are no better than the Mariners.
By Shamus Thacker
June 7, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
Now we’re justa buncha dang knuckle draggers….
By SAL
June 7, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
Acosta, Boyer, Ring? Would somebody remind Booby Cox that a guy named Stockman is in the bullpen and he CAN pitch.
By A-ville Ranger
June 7, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
If you like boxing and have HBO check out Kelly Pavlik,he’s fighting in a few minutes.
By Ray
June 7, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this
DOB, will you please (just to give a modicum of legitimacy to our whining in here) give us a signal in code, one that only we’d all know from being such devotees of your writing, that Bobby’s decision to bat Jo Jo in the 6th was…oh, let’s call it…ill advised?
Just a wink. Perhaps a reference to Road House?
I don’t even want to blog tonight. This team is so enervating.
By ugaman
June 7, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this
Ok, a few thoughts. First, everyone needs to step back and take a deep breath. Yes, we aren’t playing well right now, but given all thie injuries this team has been through, we are still in pretty good shape. I know that some on this blog are so passionate that they are causing the stress levels in their life to get too high and that does concern me a bit. I’m also sure that if everyone really thought about it, they would know that these ball players are trying the best they can. The fact is, we are still an extemely young team that is still trying to figure out how to win. Especially the pitching staff. Sure, Cox is making some really weird decisions, but I imagine its because he doesn’t know who he can trust right now outside of Chipper, McCann and Huddy. He’s guessing right now and trying not to hurt the confidence of the young ones by making so many changes. Other players in the league want to come here because they know Bobby will stick with them even when they are struggling. Sometimes that works against him, but the fact is, players usually respond pretty well to that. Rmember Valentine with the Mets and Piniella with all of his teams. The only time Piniella has won was when the club spent huge amounts of money on free agents and loaded the team with all-stars, ala the Yankees. Yes, the road trip is huge and we need to see something turn our fortunes on the road, but let’s not forget that we are playing the toughest stretch in the season right now. If we come out of this winning two of the four series, then it will be a successful stretch. Right now we are on pace to do that. Let’s also not forget that the teams we are playing like the Phillies are really good and there players are trying hard just like ours. Sometimes the ball bounces against you, but it’s no fluke where these teams are in the standings. Let’s not give up hope yet. I trutst the leadership on this team and know how badly they want to win. Besides, when it gets down to it, this is still just a game and we don’t need to get so bent out of shape and act immature in our rants on the players. It’s good to be passionate, but some of the stuff I’m reading on this blog is insane. We’ve only played about a third of the schedule, so there’s plenty of time to catch back up. Remember, the Phillies are on a hot streak right now. They will come back to earth and struggle at som point, every team does every season. Let’s just enjoy baseball and see what happens. Sorry for the long post, but that’s all for tonight. I’ll talk to you denizens another nihgt. DOB if you get a chance to answer my 9:42 post, I would sure appreciate it. I’d like to know Bobby’s thinking right now.
By JEB
June 7, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
Watching the Braves each night (right now) is like going out each day and watching the gas price keep going up. (FRUSTRATING!!)
By SoWeGa Fanatic
June 7, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
Cox has 40+ years experience in the bigs at all levels. However, he couldn’t hit when he played, and he sure can’t now. That’s the problem. You have to score to win. You are a bunch of half-empty glassers. There’s, what, a hundred games to play?
By AJ 25 FAN
June 7, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this
If K bleeping J played in Bos, NY OR Phila he would have been run out of town long ago. He is the worst fielding 2nd baseman in baseball.
By braves70
June 7, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this
In the voice of Jim Mora: “Half empty glassers? Half Empty? I don’t know if this glass can even hold a sip.”
By mr baseball
June 7, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
Everyone who thinks a) Norton or Gotay would have gotten a hit with the bases loaded & 2 outs in the 6th, and b) the overworked bullpen would have shut down the Phillies from that point, please raise your hands.
OK. I see Coach frantically waving. Anybody else?
This loss wasn’t on Cox. Reyes pitched well enough to stay in, and several arms in the bullpen needed a break. If all the Braves are gonna do against a run-of-the-mill starter like Kendrick is a 2-run HR by Chipper, this was not a game they were going to win.
Never fear. Mr. O’Brien has categorically stated that there’s still a long way to go, so there’s no reason for concern.
Even with a loss tomorrow, Braves are still a solid .500 team. Whoo-hoo.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this
DOB, when you made your predictions for the season back in March and picked the Braves to win the East, did you really believe that, or just had to write that since you are a beat writer for the team?Tomahawkin’ Again (like it’s 1990)
I only said it because I’m the beat writer who covers the team.
Did you ask that question because you really meant it, or because you believed it would actually amuse someone other than yourself?
By Hack
June 7, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this
To all of you saying Reyes should have been pinch hit for in the sixth…have you been paying attention to the ENTIRE season, or just tonight’s game? Every night we talk about how overused our bullpen is. Bobby’s #1 priority right now has to be taking care of the bullpen. I’m sure he would love to have fresh arms, and great pinch hitters available all the time, but we don’t have it. We all whine that he is using the pen too much, and when he finally has a chance to keep a starter (besides Hudson) in the game past the sixth, you all whine about not going to the bullpen. All those low inning starts from our guys have caught up to us, and our manager has no choice but to leave Reyes in tonight.
I swear most of you people live to second guess everything cause it makes you feel more intelligent than you actually are. Get a life.
By jed
June 7, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
tonight’s game was as expected. personally, as soon as KJ dropped that ball last night, i was figuring on a sweep—braves cast adrift in the slipstream of that gaffe. but if we salvage tomorrow’s game, we’ll be alright. it’s a long season… hangover wont last forever.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
By the time the next homestand comes around on June 20th, Braves will be 35-39, 9 games out in 4th place. Are You Ready for some Football?!!! Tomahawkin’ Again (like it’s 1990) (whose posts I find particularly entertaining tonight)
Yeah, I know I’ll be ready for some football June 20. Nothing like that late-June early-July football, right T-hawkin’ Again? Yeah, boy. That’s the stuff.
By Matt
June 7, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
Bobby may be an idiot, but I got a huge laugh out of his little tirade after Escobar was ejected! Did anyone else hear that outburst? Something tells me an audio tech’s job might be in jeopardy for that mess up.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this
Never fear. Mr. O�Brien has categorically stated that there�s still a long way to go, so there�s no reason for concernMr Baseball
Ah, yes, the great Baseball Sage weighing in. Where did I “categorically state” that there’s still a long way to go and “no reason for concern”? Please find where I “categorically” stated that this week, that there’s no cause for concern.
Braves are 5-5 in their past 10 home games, and now 5-1/2 behind Philly. I’d say there’s reason for concern. Coming into the series, they had a chance to trim the lead by winning the series. But they have not. Philly’s lead has instead grown.
See, Mr. Baseball, the perspective should be a bit different if the Braves had won these two games, but you can’t grasp that. If Johnson had not dropped a two-out popup last night, and if the Braves had done anything against Kyle (5.00 ERA entering game) Kendrick tonight, they might well be only 1-1/2 games out of first place with 99 games to play.
You really have a hard time understanding how that wouldn’t be a bad position to be in, don’t you? Oh, well. Braves lost these two and now you can pop off like you’re, well, like you’re Mr Baseball.
Good for you, chief. Gold star and all that.
By bravesfan
June 7, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this
DOB, have you heard any news of a Morton call-up?
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this
How ‘bout this: I asked Cox after the game about Escobar getting ejected, and he said he wasn’t ejected.
We all kind of scratched our heads, knowing we saw what we saw (umpire giving the heave-ho sign).
We got into the clubhouse after the postgame news conference in Cox’s office, and it was confirmed to us what we knew: Yes, Escobar was ejected.
Kelly Johnson said the umpire told him that Escobar had said “f* you” to the ump. Kelly said he didn’t see Escobar say a word to him. I couldn’t tell on the TV replay from my seat. Could you guys see it? I’m assuming Escobar said something, because I saw him hesitate in front of the plate, and he’d had an earlier run-in with that ump.
Ump was a bit full of himself tonight. That strike zone on Kelly coming to bat after the Escobar ejection was comical, that high strike he called on Kelly.
Hey, the boys are frustrated. As they should be. Their home magic seems to be wearing off, and now they’d best do some similar correcting (the other way) to their road record.
By CC Rider
June 7, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
Dear UGAMAN, Yours is a voice of reason, but no one wants to hear it right now! The starting rotation has had injuries, but have overcome them to lead the league in ERA. GREAT! But the bullpen has no closer and no setup man and thus has blown saves in 5 out of 8 games. Smoltz is gone, Soriano is a wimp who laid out for a month injured and it turned out nothing was structurially wrong with him. Moylan is gone and the parade of setup guys have failed over and over: Boyer, Acosta, Bennett, Ring, Etc. The lineup other than Chipper and Mac is inconsitent-Escober, Kelly, Texiera: clueless- Franceour or rookies that have no power, strikeout alot and are undisciplined-Blanco, Anderson. I might also add that Bobby is having a hard time in close game decision making; partly his mystery calls and part the failure of players to perform. FINAL ANSWER: The team as it stands now: Good enough starting pitching, Bullpen only pitches well in blowouts, but in tight games-BLOWS. Lineup needs an injection of talent from either the minors or a trade. Frank Wren had better think out of the box (the box being; we wait till the All-Star break to see where we are to make decisive moves on personel) because by the All Star break the Braves will be SOOOO far out of the division and wildcard race that the only thing they will be doing is trading off Texiera and both starting and bullpen pitchers to the teams still in the race.
By faninFaytown
June 7, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this
Does anyone notice that the Phils only have 3 starters hitting over .280. It doesn’t take a genius to realize that we have the team to win we just cant ever do anything in the clutch. That, apparently, is where Philly lives.
By Roman Gal
June 7, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this
DOB Have you heard anything about why Jason Heyward hasn’t been playing recently? Just wondering.
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this
HACK, I concur wholeheartedly with your 11:16 post. That was my reaction when I saw couple of folks above jumping on that move. Just shook my head. Not worth trying to reason with ‘em on that one. If they can’t see the logic in that move (or non-move), well, whatever.
BRAVESFAN: If they call up Morton now, what would you do with him? You gonna drop Reyes from the rotation the way he’s pitching now? No way. So unless you’re either going to move Campillo back to the bullpen or move Morton to the bullpen, then that move right now doesn’t seem like it would make much sense.
Nothing wrong with Morton continuing to build confidence by dominating hitters at Triple-A. Good for him to have some sustained success in the high minors.
Next time the Braves have any injury, or a doubleheader, or a blister, etc, I’m sure we’re going to see him, providing the timing works with it being his turn to pitch, that kind of stuff. They’re ready to bring him up when he’s needed.
By Herman the Braveman
June 7, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this
You beligerant Philthie Fans spout off, like it’s septober already??? I don’t see that team keeping up this make believe fairy tale run that Chase UGLY seemas to be on,If there is any justice in the World,that little PI%$ant will turn a knee and You Arrogant Philthie Fansie You remind me of Those Insolent Boston Fans!!! will have to then SHUT the —-up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Reality Rex
June 7, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
I have a Wonderful idea. Disable Soriano and he can throw off of that same hallowed “flat ground” as Mr Brooksville. And now you’re talking about what Gonzalez is going to do!!! It was a blanking elbow injury for a relief pitcher who needed the little velocity he had going besides the deception. Maybe you can expect him to morph into Ted Abernathy as you were expecting of Smoltzie. And John, these surgeries will eventually affect your shoulder and impact your ability to play your 2nd love —Golf. Stop the foolishness. Get on with your full life and great family.
Maybe Luis Arroyo, Elroy Face and Joe Black are still ambulatory??
Anyone want to bet that Mike Hampton makes as many starts this year as Cy Young??
By Roman Gal
June 7, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
DOB Nevermind. I just found this article about his injury.
By Dwight Fry
June 7, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this
So either Cox wasn’t thinking about what he was saying or he has little faith in the rest of the lineup.
Another way of putting it is that game one WAS going your way until YOU dropped the pop-up.
By Crabby Bill
June 7, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this
Mr D…I mean Baseball,I don’t know if a pinch hitter would have come through in the sixth or not.I do believe in a playoff it would have been the right move.Raise your hand if you think there should have been a play off urgency to win tonight considering how poorly the team plays on the road ? So now the team is 5.5 back and headed on the road,the good news is the pen got an inning of rest.Is it a smart trade-off ? you decide.
By Efrim
June 7, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this
Yea. Well. The Phillies are a better team right now. I am just hoping that this 10 game road trip doesn’t bury this team emotionally. If they lose tomorrow and then go 2-8? Geeez. 34-40 or something like that. Man o man. Can’t say it’s the injuries. Not when the pitching has been this good, right? I’d say most of the blame falls on the O.
By chrisklob
June 7, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this
Roman Gal, I posted that same question to you yesterday but I guess you didn’t see it. Rome was in Charleston this past week. Heyward walked with a bit of a limp and during the one bp that I saw him take, he looked bad. Didn’t hit the ball hard. I was really hoping that you were going to have an answer to that question…..
By David O'Brien
June 7, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this
Roman Gal, Heyward was hitting .330 for Rome and played in 58 of their 60 games before tonight. If he’s hurt it must’ve just happened.
(OK, now I see the link you just put up. Nevermind. Sounds like he’s just a bit nicked up.)
By Herman the Braveman
June 7, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this
Are You people serious????????Kidding Really?????????? You want someone besides Bobby Cox???what the hell are You Idiots Smoking tonight,I Know,I know You no gate paying Atlanta Homers are spewing Your Social Retardation!!!! Bobby Cox is A HALL OF FAME MANAGER,I really don’t see any of you Dumba$$ Clowns carrying his Jock!!!! Shut Up it is what it is!!!
By bravesfan
June 7, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
Dropping Reyes from the rotation would be the last thing I would do, but if he keeps doing like he is, they are going to have to bring him up. I would probably move Campillo back to the bullpen. I think Reyes is our 3rd best pitcher.
By David O'Brien
June 8, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this
In case you missed it (I didn’t check all the blog posts above), Schafer hit TWO HOME RUNS last night for Mississippi, drove in four runs. Both were opposite-field homers.
That made him 8-for-21 with a triple, three homers and nine RBIs in five games since returning for his suspension (before tonight, haven’t checked tonight’s game).
Talk about a dude on a mission….
By Herman the Braveman
June 8, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this
No Team,and I mean no Team is just going to hand over a first class Starter,or significant hotshot everyday player,for beans,and bats!!!!!!!! Stop dreaming every team has hot streaks,and cold one’s as well!!! Taking this out on Bobby Cox ain’t facing reality!!! The fact of the matter is ,one Jeff Francouer has got to play better,Texiera has to earn his paycheck,and someone has to get some damn guts in the pen!!!! Fire Bobby Cox What a bunch of morons!!!!
By David O'Brien
June 8, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this
Bravesfan, no, you don’t “have to” bring him up. He would not be the first big pitching prospect who had to spend, god forbid, an entire season in Triple-A. Sometimes I think people forget that Morton struggled to put together even a solid half-season in the minors, that he only began to thrive late last summer.
Kid’s got a brilliant future ahead of him, I really believe. But there is nothing whatsoever wrong with leaving him at Richmond for most of this season, until the Braves have a need. Which they will, at some point. Maybe next week, maybe next month. But if not, big deal. So he’s in the rotation to beging next season.
By David O'Brien
June 8, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
Just checked, Schafer was 0-for-5 with two Ks tonight. His first rough game since returning.
By Roman Gal
June 8, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this
I’m sorry chrisklob. I didn’t see it.
Well, hopefully he’ll be back in the lineup soon. I’m going to the game Friday. A little R&R should do him some good.
By bravesfan
June 8, 2008 12:11 AM | Link to this
DOB, he (Schafer) went 0 for 5 tonight.
By monty
June 8, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this
Hack
Bobby should of pinch hit for Reyes in the 6th Why? Because the Phillies score runs. Period! They are the best run scoring machine in the league. Jo=Jo was only going to go one more inning at most anyway. This game tonight was the most important game of the season so far, and we had a chance to score some runs on a weak hitting night and Bobby chose to not even try! DOes anyone really believe we were going to beat them by one run late? I didn’t think so. We needed someone to come off the bench and break the game open. I agree Gotay was not going to be the man. He should be cut A.S.A.P and someone, anyone else given a chance, all he does is strike out.
By David O'Brien
June 8, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this
One last thing before I leave the ‘yard: Kotsay told me after the game that he’s planning to make the trip to Chicago Tuesday. He’s made progress the past day or two, but still has to strengthen his back and do some cardio work and such before he’ll be ready to play. Hasn’t done anything to speak of, except treatment and stretching, for the past 10 days or so.
Maybe he’ll be ready to play near the end of the trip, or shortly thereafter. Still can’t put a timetable on it until he swings a bat and all.
By Because
June 8, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this
When does Andruw Jr…..I mean Franceour, stop getting his free pass? He is hurting this team. He should not be batting 5th…ever. I think this lineup would be more productive with Mcann 5th, Kelly batting 6th and Franceour 7th. Kelly has good pop and at the bottom of the lineup we just dont have that right now with Blanco/Anderson/Infante/Norton. Franceour is a 250-260 hitter and will always be so. He does have some pop, but not enough to warrant batting 5th or even 6th.
My lineup:
Escobar Anderson/Blanco Chipper Tex Mccann Johnson Franceour Blanco/Anderson
By bravesfan
June 8, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this
I am not saying that a entire season at AAA would hurt Morton by any means, but if Campillo comes down to earth, I think you call up Morton.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 8, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this
My apology if I knew Cox screwed up right when Jo-Jo strode to the plate in the sixth inning. I’ll have to second guess Bobby next time like everybody else does, after the mistake is made instead of pointing out just how flawed Cox really is as it happens.
In other words, what all you geniuses are saying is, if Jo-Jo bats it’s the right move and the Braves have no chance to score. If Cox pinch hits for him, the Braves still have no chance to score. Brilliant !
In other words, Cox is infallible and the Braves still have no chance. Go figure and tie your brains in knots trying to figure that out.
Here is the reality of why Jo-Jo was allowed to hit…..Cox doesn’t trust his bullpen.
Nighty night to all you rocket scientists. LMAO !!!!!
By chrisklob
June 8, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this
Roman Gal, no need to apologize. I was just wondering if you or any of the other denizens knew what was wrong with him. He came out very late and Ingle said he was in the clubhouse getting “treatment” when I asked about him. I hope he’s well enough to play in the All Star game.
By N8
June 8, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this
Mr Baseball
Sure I’m aware of Jeff’s 2 HR’s that “won games” for us recently.
I’m also aware that in the 6 games this year, that he’s hit HR’s in, he has gone 12 for 27 (.444) with 7 HR and 17 RBI.
It’s the OTHER 56 games, that he’s gone 49 for 218 (.224) with 0 HR and 19 RBI, that has me concerned.
Dude gets what has to be considered lucky on a couple of mistake pitches, in late May, and we’re supposed to forget the 2 months that he’s literally come close to NOT hitting his weight?
If you wanna be pumped up by his couple of HR’s recently. Be my guest. But don’t act like some of us don’t pay attention to the OVERALL numbers he’s putting up.
Jeff is NOT the flavor of the week, for slumping Braves hitters. He’s been the flavor of the season, so far (save 6 games).
By I dont watch road games
June 8, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this
Who care’s what Schafer is doing for Mississippi its not helpin the Atlanta GA Braves ,they are the ones getting their assess handed to em by the Phillies
By A-ville Ranger
June 8, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this
Here’s the short on the team’s situation.After tomorrow we’ll either be 6.5 or 4.5 back in the east.We go on the road against the teams with the two best records in the game, the Cubs and Angels.If we lose tomorrow and drop 5 of 6 against Chi and LAA we could easily find ourselves 10 games out by the middle of the month.So while it is a bit fatalistic to talk about the season effectively being over by the end of the month.Realistically this team can’t afford to give anymore games away.It’s entirely possible we’ll be watching much of the rest of the season to see what individual players are doing.
By I dont watch road games
June 8, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this
Tomarrow is Bat day at the game ,all i can say they better hand them out after the game or its going get ugly if the Phils beat up the on the Braves like they have these first two games
By Chop Chop
June 8, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this
(I’m bored, so…)
Bobby’s damned if he does and damned if he doesn’t. This team isn’t doing much of anything right. The proof is in the record. That is the bottom line. At the risk of being “negative”, the Braves are now 6-10 since Bobby signed the contract extension that the players felt he was so deserving of. I’m sure he’s a great guy to work for (he certainly seems to be), but the results are what they are.
It’s very easy to explain away Friday night’s game (KJ’s version of a “Merkle Boner”), but the bullpen is fried. The “two forty-somethings in the rotation” master strategy employed by Frank Wren has not worked. Bobby is the one left to try to cobble something together. He’s done a decent job of it, but the bullpen is wearing out. The team is one game above .500 and in the hunt, but the numbers are a bunch of damned liars and say that the Braves are considerably better than they’ve performed. I think realistic fans know better than those damned lyin’ stats.
Any Braves fan/observer worth his salt will tell you that this team needs to hit consistently well to make up for what’s going to happen to the pitching this season. (And believe me, the bad stuff hasn’t hit yet. The bullpen is starting to show strong signs of wear and tear 60 games into the season. Nothing short of a bunch of solid starts and good hitting is going to really straighten this mess out.) On paper, the Braves have the hitters to get the job done. Even if you strenuously reject the possibility of a player like Francoeur turning the corner, the Braves still have hitters like McCann, Chipper, Tex, Escobar, and Merkle, er, Kelly Johnson. There is no reason the Braves shouldn’t stay in the race all year with such a lineup. Even so, they only scored two runs at home against the exceedingly mediocre Kyle Kendrick (he’s a freakin’ five-inning pitcher…13 GS, just over 68 IP). The Braves should be eating fools like Kendrick for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Chipper shouldn’t be the only guy able to do damage against him. Kendrick should be knocked out of the game by the fourth inning with the lineup (on paper, mind you) that the Braves have. If only games were played on paper, eh?
Just to wrap up…
We all have to remember that, win or lose Sunday, it is a strong possibility that the Braves will need a .500 or better road trip just to stay afloat in the division race. The gauntlet is being thrown down. It is time for the Braves to do it on the road.
By richbrave
June 8, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this
DOWN ON THE FARM
DIORY HERNANDEZ gets 3rd HR in 4 G as R-Braves win 4-3 behind JONOTHAN ROUWENHORST. JASON PERRY has a 2 H night.
By Random
June 8, 2008 12:44 AM | Link to this
raindawg722 — yeah, I was at the game tonight and saw a whole ‘nother slew of one-handed catches.
But what really bugged me and my brother were Kendrick’s 5-pitch 4th and 9-pitch 5th innings. Through the first three innings, he had thrown 55 pitches, about half of which were balls. The Braves had had 5 baserunners on only one hit (3 BBs and the E3).
He seemed to be on the ropes until the Braves let him skate through the 4th & 5th on just 14 total pitches.
Thanks, nolie — no harm done. (Me — my eyes are giving out. That’s why I’m alla time screwing up the font and links here.)
Capt Caveman: “At 3am I was just trying to find something to talk about other than KJ’s bone-head play.”
Well done — you can consider that a successful mission accomplished.
I echo Braveheart’s earlier thanks — thanks.
(I hope you didn’t miss nolie’s upright and righteous apologia.)
mr baseball: “This loss wasn’t on Cox. Reyes pitched well enough to stay in”
You’re probably right.
Although his pitch count was fairly high (94 pitches) after seven innings, and I’m sure it was oppressively hot and humid on the field, he was still hitting the low to mid nineties (91-94 mph) on his fastballs in the 8th.
Well said at 10:40, ugaman — I’m with you.
ijonathan: “Is anybody else out there starting to get a little bit tired/frustrated with some of Escobar’s “antics”?”
What antics? Other than hopping like a fool from the on-deck circle, and flipping his bat?
I missed it tonight (out smoking) but after he grounded out to the pitcher in the 7th, my brother told me that the ump had not let the batboy retrieve the bat, but had flung it himself back toward the Braves’ dugout, and subsequently had words with someone there (Pendleton?).
Was there any revelations on this incident on the TV or radio broadcasts?
(Escobar had had words in the 5th with the ump after an inning-ending called third strike, too — for about 15-20 seconds, at least. Was this mentioned/discussed on air?)
By Roman Gal
June 8, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this
I just don’t get how some people get so upset about us talking about the boys on the farm.
I don’t watch road games, the reason people care about Jordan Schafer and how he is doing has to do with the likelyhood that he is going to be in Atlanta by September…possibly sooner if the outfield keeps sucking as badly as it has the last few weeks, ESPECIALLY if Kotsay is going to be out much longer.
oh, and chrisklob, I’m with you on the Verizon commercial…but I’m not sure anything could ever top the Pepsi Max commercial.
By chrisklob
June 8, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this
Roman Gal
I’m with you on the Verizon commercial…but I’m not sure anything could ever top the Pepsi Max commercial.
There are a couple of insurance commercials that are pushing their way into “Pepsi Max” territory. One features a guy singing in his car while a cop car pulls up. The other has a guy in the drive thru line at the bank. Those two get played WAY too often. The people at Peachtree or CSS or wherever really need to ramp up their sales staff because obviously the current crew sucks.
By Roman Gal
June 8, 2008 1:39 AM | Link to this
chrisklob, well the one with the guy singing when the cop pulls up…that’s happened to me before. So I find it amusing.
I think if PTV wants to take a step in the right direction, they could remember to give JJ his ritalin.
By Will
June 8, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this
Its over folks! Braves will pack it in and get swept tommorow. Kelly Johnson lost season last night, literally! Braves are not coming back from this and anybody that wants to disagree is delusional.
By chrisklob
June 8, 2008 1:47 AM | Link to this
chrisklob, well the one with the guy singing when the cop pulls up…that’s happened to me before. So I find it amusing.
It was funny to me the first couple of times.
I think if PTV wants to take a step in the right direction, they could remember to give JJ his ritalin.
Or they could just fire his azz. He’s annoying. Maybe when the Braves make a trade for a power hitting LF they can use him as a throw in. :-)
By THB
June 8, 2008 1:49 AM | Link to this
I think I’ve figure it out guys…
The Braves are going to start losing some home games, because they’re going to start winning some road games!
I really hope so, lol.
By Roman Gal
June 8, 2008 1:55 AM | Link to this
Will, he literally lost the season last night? I bet you could care less what happens for the next 99 games right?
By Roman Gal
June 8, 2008 2:01 AM | Link to this
Or they could just fire his azz. He’s annoying. Maybe when the Braves make a trade for a power hitting LF they can use him as a throw in. :-)
You think the Cardinals would take him and Chip Caray for Ryan Ludwick?
By Will
June 8, 2008 2:04 AM | Link to this
In the spirit of this blog title i have one thing to say. Ho-Hum, the Braves are done! This season is lost. They dont have the firepower to come back from this.
By NYMcCannFan
June 8, 2008 2:09 AM | Link to this
McCann YOU Dig It?
Vote Brian McCann to the All-Star Team!
www.mccannyoudigit.com
By Roman Gal
June 8, 2008 2:35 AM | Link to this
In the spirit of this blog title i have one thing to say. Ho-Hum, the Braves are done! Will
Haha. That was a good one. In fact, I don’t even have a snarky comeback…maybe if you give me a day or two…
I don’t know about the rest of you guys, but I’m definately looking forward to the next 7 games. 6 of which are on the road and are against 3 first place teams.
By StingerSplash
June 8, 2008 2:35 AM | Link to this
In Reyes’ defense, his last couple of outings have been rather splendid. He couldn’t finish the job tonight, but as much as the bullpen has been called upon lately, why not try to let him get a few more outs. Aside from the two HRs midway through the game, the Phillies weren’t getting a lot of good swings against him. And remember, no bullpen has blown more saves than the Braves. That stat is more than a little skewed, but it goes to show that the pen has been used a lot. But winning this afternoon is now a must. got to keep the phils within reach and thanks to the padres for extending the mets’ misery. almost feel sorry for them…. almost.
By NO MORE BOBBY
June 8, 2008 3:24 AM | Link to this
Hey Braves fans! Come join me and my Chicago Cubs! The cubbies play with attitude (unlike the Braves), they have a manager that isnt 1000 years old and knows how to fire up his team (unlike the Braves) and they are going to go to the series this year and win it all (unlike the Braves). Yes I jumped ship until 2010 and will be back around if Cox is gone.
BOBBY BALL = BORING!!!!!
By michael759
June 8, 2008 3:33 AM | Link to this
This could be the most frustrating season of Braves baseball in the 32 years that I have been following. In the 80’s, I knew they were going to lose but I had high (unrealistic) expectations this season. Even with all of the injuries, we are at the top of the NL in ERA and we have a guy hitting over 400. How can it be that we are only one game over 500? This is not the team of the 90’s that would win a lot of the close games and have to respectfuly disagree with some of the posts that this team is till young and needs to learn how to win. Most of the guys we are counting on have enough seasoning to know how to win. It is a team of choke artists. It kills me because I feel that offensively we have more talent than a lot of the teams in the 90’s. It’s a mojo thing. We had it in the 90’s and we don’t have it now. I live in Tampa now and watching the Rays, I see the mojo. This team finally figured it out. They win close games, they’re scrappy..it’s that magic that gets you over the top. I hate to say it but the Braves do not have it. The Braves will always be my team. It just eats me up inside to watch the ESPN ticker every night and watch us lose games in the late innings. If the game is close or on the road, I almost expect the Braves to lose. I’m drunk and ranting..had to get it off my chest.
By Left Field
June 8, 2008 4:03 AM | Link to this
Mr Baseball,Been reading your remarks on here for a while and there is no room for the political comments,go vent elsewhere.Your second guessing and stateing the obivious got old a long time ago.
By Moby Grape
June 8, 2008 5:29 AM | Link to this
This whole disappointing season is all Chipper’s fault. He has 92 hits and another 38 walks but has only scored 44 runs. If he were scoring runs at the rate he normally has before there would be around 60 or so and we would have won another 8-10 games. I’m getting tired of him just hanging around out there on the basepaths and not giving it his all. Chippy needs to really pick it up or Bobby should bench him to teach him a lesson
By Bill
June 8, 2008 6:05 AM | Link to this
I have lost faith in this team. All the injuries and inconsistant hitting will do them in. They will be way back after this next road trip. It’s tome for the Braves management to make changes, starting with Tex. I would hate to see Frenchie go but he just seems to stay in a rut. I don’t think he will listen to anyone.
By Deep Throat
June 8, 2008 7:01 AM | Link to this
Guys, are you really that SHOCKED? I mean, REALLY?
Look at the Braves’ outfield. That is easily the worst in the NL.
Anderson/Blanco/Francoeur=AAA outfield.
By George "Boston Braves" Spitz
June 8, 2008 7:09 AM | Link to this
Bobby Cox’s stubborn refusal to use Phil Stockman is disgraceful except when the game is already lost. In 5 innings, Stockman has yet to allow a run and only one hit, a triple opening an inning where Stockman left the runner stranded. His earned run average at Richmond was 0.77. There have been at least 3 close games where use of Stockman might have prevented one or two run losses.
By George "Boston Braves" Spitz
June 8, 2008 7:09 AM | Link to this
Bobby Cox’s stubborn refusal to use Phil Stockman is disgraceful except when the game is already lost. In 5 innings, Stockman has yet to allow a run and only one hit, a triple opening an inning where Stockman left the runner stranded. His earned run average at Richmond was 0.77. There have been at least 3 close games where use of Stockman might have prevented one or two run losses.
By monty
June 8, 2008 7:24 AM | Link to this
In certain games that are close going into later innings you get one chance, maybe, to make the right call as a manager, to pull the right strings, to help your team. I know hindsight is 20/20 but let’s face it that’s what this blog is about to a large degree, we all get our chance to say “this is what I would of done.” If the Braves don’t have someone who can come off the bench and maybe get a single, who can just put the ball in play with the hopes that it finds a hole and scores two runs with the bases loaded, they aren’t going to win the division or the wild card. If they don’t have one reliever who Bobby, “can trust” to bring in and pitch the 7th IF He Pinch HIts FOR REYES IN THE 6th. THen they aren’t going to win squat. THere was one moment in the game last night where one single possibly breaks the game open,one error by the Philles, one bases loaded walk, one wild pitch because the pitcher was trying to be “too fine” to a say “Norton” instead of feeling confident because the pitcher is batting, one moment that could have swung the momentum our way, could of changed the complexion of the game. If Norton is brought in and he singles probably 2 runs score and now the crowd is going wild and the Phillies mgr. has to pull his pitcher and then Escobar is up with another runner in scoring position. I understand it’s should’a if’a thinking. But that scenario is more plausible to me than to think Jo-Jo shuts the big hitters of the Phillies down the rest of the way and we win by one run late.Does anyone really think that given our record in one run games that was goint to happen against the Phils?C’mon you are smarter than that.I’m not bashing Bobby Cox, I’m just saying there was one moment last night where the game could have went our way and Bobby chose to wait for another.
By Needahoma
June 8, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this
Hey fans, looks like we got a real replacement for Andruw. Ole Tex is our new rally killer! He is not worth keeping, what a bust. Sick of hearing how Tex is heating up, only thing hot about him is the phone line between him and Boras. Come on Tex, do something, try something different, its not working and you are killing us in the clutch.
By needahoma
June 8, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this
And while I am at it, Frenchy, you can sulk all you want because you did not get a long term deal like McCann. When you get to be a ballplayer like him, you will get a deal, but as long as you swing at stuff my little leaguers don’t swing at, you will do good to keep your job. Get some discipline and you and Tex watch some video or something, you are both killing this team with your lack of production.
By Philliesuk
June 8, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this
There is so much to be said. First of all, I’ve been watching this team since 1979, and this is possibly the most frustrating season that I have witnessed. Not the most disappointing, but the most frustrating. Never have I seen a team with so much do so little. Never have I seen so many injuries. Never have I seen such a team with such sloppy fundamentals. So who to blame all of this on, and how to fix it? Well, the injuries can’t be forgotten. Going in to the season, we all knew that we had some aging and fragile players, so we can’t be too surprised about Smoltz and Kotsay. Like Chipper said, Smoltz was a devastating loss. I always felt that without Smoltz this season, we won’t win the division. I still feel that way.
But the real disappointment this season is, as well all know, the offense. If we look past the injuries, which is out of our control, the we can blame this season’s failures on the lack of production from Mark Teixeira and Jeff Francoeur. Yeah, yeah, I know Teixeira has been getting hot. We all know that he has still not performed in the clutch. I’m sure someone out there will produce a stat that puts a positive spin on it (after all, you can always spin numbers and statistics), but the bottom line is that he has been a huge disappointment. To say otherwise is just denial. What a laugher that he will still command 20 million. It just goes to show you how out-of-control things really are in baseball. I’m not saying he’s a chump, but if teams are consistently walking Chipper to get to Tex, then obviously he’s not doing his job. Obviously, the IBBs are also due to Chipper’s amazing year, but still. Unless Tex turns it on, and I mean really turns it on, and we make the playoffs, then we will remember him as one of the worst trades in franchise history. So that brings us to Francoeur. Just terrible. He needs some serious intervention. Even the most fervent Cox supporters need to acknowledge that Cox has mis-handled him Frenchy needs to get more days off, and he needs to be dropped down in the order. Putting him #5-6 is a laugher.
In the 90s, the Braves won on pitching and defense. This year, our pitching has actually been very good (despite the fact that the bullpen has been used way too much). Your bullpen is going to blow some games;it’s just a fact in baseball. The defense has been costing us games more than the pitching. On his own, KJ has cost us at least two games with his defense alone. KJ’s defense, Escobar’s baserunning, Francoeur’s bat, and Tex’s non-production have sucked this team dry.
I still love this team, and I hope we can turn it around. We will most likely not win the division. I’m not saying that we are out of it, but I just don’t have much faith in Francoeur and KJ completely turning it around with their respective weaknesses. That being said, I do think that we can win the wild card. In this day and age, the wild card is a great thing to win, and plenty of wild card teams end up going to the Series. But without changing the guy playing left field and acquiring one more arm to replace Smoltz, even the wild card is in doubt.
I used to think that N8 was a really negative guy, even though he is obviously one of the most knowledgeable on here; now I’m starting to think that he’s the smartest guy on here. While I was posting how our bullpen of Smoltz, Soriano, and Gonzo was going to be dominant, he was reminding us that there will continue to be health problems. Looks like I was the one who was wrong, unfortunately.
By Yars
June 8, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
I can’t believe all the negativity on this here blog. We have 99 games left, & some of you are already waving the white flag. Sure, it stinks that we lost this series against the Phils, but there are 99 games left. Nobody is going to run away with the NL East. If there were only 29 games left, I would be in panic mode. There are 99 freaking games left! All that being said, this Braves team does have flaws. LF, CF, starting pitching. I would like to see Bobby hit Anderson in the leadoff spot & see what happens. Why the hell not? Move Yunel #2, KJ #6, & Frenchy #7. I have more faith in KJ at the plate right now than Frenchy. now playing: boys better by dandy warhols.
By Random
June 8, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this
DOB —
Whatever happened to Jeff Ridgway???
By Yars
June 8, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this
Man, some of you can criticize Tex all you want, but there is one certain thing, he plays the game hard. Sure, he’s not having an MVP type season like some of us predicted, including myself. He hustles to 1B even when he hits a easy out grounder to the infield, or a weak pop fly to the OF. We see players now that jog to 1B when they hit a simple grounder to 2B. Players such as Tex, Chipper, Kelly Johnson, Jeter, Furcal, ect… always hustle. A player that I dislike is Manny Ramirez. Whenever he hits a grounder to 2B, SS, or even a routine pop fly to the OF, have you ever seen him run hard to 1B? Don’t give me that, well, that’s just, ‘Manny being Manny.’ That’s a bull crap excuse. now playing: discipline by nine inch nails.
By Lew
June 8, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this
Reading this blog beats watching Comedy Central sometimes.
Nathan-Yes, we are aware of the two months (minus the two recent game winning Home Runs) that Francoeur has endured (or is it YOU that has endured?). Maybe you could provide a Cat O’ Nine Tails so he can self flagellate after Kelly Johnson finishes paying his penance for dropping a pop up.
Coach-All you need is a straight man-or a psychic. Have you channeled Connie Mack yet?
By Tomahawkin' Again (like it's 1995)
June 8, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
Just started reading last night’s posts and I read that I got called out by the man, DOB. I feel so honored! Ha Ha. I’m sorry David, just a very frustrated Braves fan who wants to experience October baseball again with my team. Not handling the last 3 years too well. I got spoiled with all those years of never doubting they weren’t going to win the division, like most of us had. Oh well, I plan on recording all the rest of the games this year and fast-forwaring until I get to Chipper’s at-bats. The only thing worth watching for right now.
By Peter
June 8, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
Well folks if anyone has been paying attention to the best clubs in Baseball, say the RedSox, Angels, or perhaps this years best the Cubs, the formula is always the same.
Consistent starting pitching, solid fielding, and timely clutch hitting. Then there are the intangibles, speed, taking advantage of situations to score, then breaking games open.
Finally getting a game to a closer who does the job.
When you look at the Braves, I don’t see allot of what I mentioned overall from this team.
I see a few guys out there that know what being patient at the plate means, and know the strike zone.
Then we have guys who swing at everything, and become rally killers.
A guy will walk on 4 or 5 pitches, then the next guy gets up and grounds out on the first pitch. What is wrong with working the count and putting pressure on the pitcher, and defense for a change? How many bases loaded situations did we NOT score on as our batter swung at ball 4, not to mention ball 2 or 3?
We could have won so many more games if guys actually walked instead of trying to hit the Grand Slam.
I see guys air mailing the ball, and NOT hitting the cut off guys. The base running has been a joke, night after night they give away outs on the base paths.
The defense has been suspect, there are a few bright spots, especially at shortstop, Tex has been very solid, and McCann is improving constantly.
Our closers, (do we actually have one?) thus plural, I believe we are 8 for 17 in blowing saves.
So how are we really to think we can compete with the elite teams in our division?
We need some new players, and Cox needs to make guys do the basics CORRECTLY!
There should be fines for one handed catches, for not knowing where you are going on the base paths, for air mailing throws instead of hitting the cut off guy, and finally for pitchers who don’t pay attention to guys on base, that steal and our catcher has zero chance to gun out.
When you look at the different losses, they all have something in common.
They are created by players who have lost their focus at key times in the game.
Is that due to coaching, perhaps age, I am not sure, but I don’t see the intensity here as when I watch other teams.
Perhaps this is Cox’s fault.
Think about this folks if Chipper is NOT on fire, and McCann is not as solid as he is, just really where would we be?
We will be getting help from Gonzales soon, but the desire and intensity needs to go up. Next the Braves need to do the simple things correctly for this team to turn things around and really compete.
Other than that, we are the third place team we have become. Chipper and McCann will be a treat all season, Escobar is getting better each day, but the rest of the team needs to man up to their responsibilities.
Someone in the dugout needs to make sure the intensity is there for the entire game!
By Braveheart
June 8, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
Yars, I would prefer Tex hit like Manny. Well, anyways, here’s an article on Tex where the writer thinks Tex is more likely to sign with the Braves than the Yankees or Mets:
http://www.dugoutcentral.com/blog/?p=1493
By beau vighn
June 8, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this
i would like to see Cox do like ozzie did with the white sox the other day. He called them out and said there were going to be changes unless people started to produce. They romptly went on a tear and started ripping the cover off the ball.Maybe Ozzie could bring it to Atlanta.
Francouer said in todays AJConstipation that he is hitting in bad luck. Here’s an idea…QUIT TRYING TO PULL EVERYTHING. This isn’t Parkview HS with 300 ft fences.
By BP
June 8, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this
Hey Kelley I GUESS it looks cool to catch the ball one-handed while not looking at it.Use two hands just like little league.2hands 2hands 2hands.Now you try it!!!!!!!!!!
By Peter
June 8, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this
Yars…… Manny is one of the MOST disciplined hitters in todays game, feared and clutch.
His preperation is second to none, most folks do not realize he is the first guy to the park and constantly studying pitchers and situations he will hit in.
Any guy that is an announcer, or his team mate will tell you he out works anyone on his team.
You see one part of his game that you don’t like, but he would improve ANY team he is on.
Bad call on Manny, he WILL like Chipper be in Cooperstown one day!
By i cant take it anymore
June 8, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this
david, I didnt see esco move his lips when he got tossed. I watched the replay ten times for a couple of reasons. One, to see what esco did, and two to listen to terry and bobby go off. esco didnt say anything, the ump was just flexing his authority when he and everybody knew the game was over. if anybody dropped the f bomb, it was terry and bobby. you got to love peachtree’s sound man. Its like you are at the game.
By bobby
June 8, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
In case no one has noticed, the Braves are 5 and 1/2 back and falling like a rock.
By Lew
June 8, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this
Beau-How do you know that he already hasn’t done so? If Bobby called out his players (and I’m sure he does-IN PRIVATE), not you, me or the media would know about it.
By Shamus Thacker
June 8, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this
If Chipper wuz’ta do the triple crown thang, Cooperstown would be renamed Chippertown. Manny will love the Hall Of Fame. He can come look at Chipper’s Statue-Of-Liberty-Sized monument, right out front!
By Efrim
June 8, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this
Braveheart
Interesting article from Dugout Central. I couldn’t disagree more with what he said, but nonetheless, interesting. I just really don’t think the Braves will offer 7 for 150. The Yankees will and their is a great need for him in the Bronx and with the Mets in Queens. The writer isn’t looking at the fact that there really isn’t any hitter on the Yanks, who is under the age of 30, to get excited about. I think fans are losing patience with Cano, not sure if management is. Anyway, I think the Yankees actually need Tex. So do the Braves, Mets and Mariners. Red Sox don’t and the Orioles aren’t ready to win yet and won’t be for a while. It’s all speculative at this point, but with the 80 million coming off the books for the Bombers, why not sign him to 23 million a year? And knowing a Boras client, 10-20 millio more(2-3 million annually) will be significant enough for him to bolt. I’d say the chances of the Braves signing him are less than 20 percent. Of course, I don’t know Tex, and maybe something changes from here on out. Maybe the Braves win the World Series(please don’t laugh) and he decides to stay. Good post though.
By Lew
June 8, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
Bobby-No Dude, no one has noticed and it hasn’t been pointed out here on the blog, either.
By Efrim
June 8, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
Yars
All that being said, this Braves team does have flaws. LF, CF, starting pitching.
And Right Field isn’t really helping us either.
Move Yunel #2, KJ #6, & Frenchy #7. I have more faith in KJ at the plate right now than Frenchy.
Well of course you do. Kelly has been the fifth best offensive second baseman in baseball. Jeff has been the worst offensive right fielder in the National League, and in the bottom fourth of the majors.
I’m sorry I just needed to point that out.
By Lew
June 8, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
Shamus-Yeah, they could put it in the room with the Ted Williams and Babe Ruth Statues.
By McFann
June 8, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
Klobber and Roman Gal—
I HATED that Pepsi Max commercial!! Ugh…Then there’s the ad for Colonial Penn where the two women switch roles…
I’ll tell you the one that I do find amusing: The AM PM commercial with the “dancing corn dog”. Also liked the AT&T ad with the guy playing pool with himself…But anyway:
So Escobar did get tossed, eh? Weird. That ump was a bit of a smart-aleck. I didn’t hear Escobar say anything, but saw his mouth move. (Didn’t hear Bobby say it, either. Thankfully we were talking over that. I’m not too keen on that mic down by the dugout…unless it’s pinned to Smoltz.)
Suppose Corky’s gonna be catchin’ today. Funny, I got this Sunday Red McCann jersey, and the Corkster usually catches the Sunday home games.
By Jeff321
June 8, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
Tex has great defense but is an offensive liability.. just a couple shades better than Frenchy. And who might I ask keeps inserting these two day after day in the 4-5-6 slots? Oh right, that’d be Bobby Cox. The guy solely responsible for the Braves poor play and third place finishes the last two years. Who knows, maybe the Braves will finish last this year and they’ll give him a 5 year contract!
Oh and that was hilarious last night when Terry Pendleton is standing there with his arms crossed in the dugout after the Escobar/umpire trash talk. I mean, where is this “fire” when the Braves are hitting like crap?
By Nelson
June 8, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
Hey Guys: I love the Braves and I’ watching them since I came to this beautiful country in ‘91, pay Direct TV for the mlb extra innings and fox package to watch them every day, but enough is enough!!!!, sorry but I keep saying that Kelly is not a second base man, Yunel is not a lead-off hitter (should be Blanco or the new boy Anderson), Franchy has to sit (despite his two hits yesterday). Pendelton should be fired as hitting coach, he doesn’t solve any problem in that role and the Braves are struggling since he is in that position. If they don’t fix this bad decision problems I’m sorry but i will forget about them and do a more productive thing than watch them. Bye.
By Braveheart
June 8, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
yeah, efrim, I don’t really agree with that writer’s view on the tex situation either but it brought up some interesting points. that writer got the francoeur contract thing wrong as well. i am not as optimistic as you are. 20% seems too high. I think the chances that Tex stays here are less than 5%. But the Braves have to offer him 7 years, $150 mil during this season. If they let it go to the offseason, they have no chance of signing him. But like you, I don’t think the Braves will offer Tex 7 years, $150 mil. They should but they won’t. And as much as people want to blame BObby, that’s the real problem. It’s the cheapskate owners who aren’t dying to win. They continue to seem more interested in fielding a marginally competitive and profitable product. Thankfully, Bobby, JS and Wren have done their best to prevent the corporate owners from killing this team too much.
By Lew
June 8, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this
Efrim-It may be a no lose situation with Tex, one way or another. If he stays, not only would it be good especially for Chipper’s production, but would show that Liberty Media is, indeed, going to spend some of the infamous “many millions more” we heard about.
If he does leave, it will give us the available $$$$ to fill several pressing needs. Like I said-the Braves really can’t lose.
About payroll-I was listening to the Marlins’ feed the other night. The announcers were talking about how the Braves, with their $105 mil+ payroll was one of the highest payrolls in the league. Ain’t it amazing what point of view can do for your opinion? Most Braves’ fans act like we’re broke, yet the Fish think we’re rich.
By Lew
June 8, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this
Nelson-See ya.
By McFann
June 8, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
Vote Brian McCann to the All-Star Team! NYMcCannFan
Will do!! I think I’m approaching the 50 marker, heh heh…
Only thing I can’t stand is how you have to type in that “Validation Key” every time you vote. But heck, it’s only for one more month!
YOU DECIDE 2008!!
VOTE MCCANN!!
By cabravesfan
June 8, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this
Great- Chipper out with a slightly torn muscle? Just what the Braves need right now
By N8
June 8, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
Philliesuk
“I used to think that N8 was a really negative guy, even though he is obviously one of the most knowledgeable on here; now I’m starting to think that he’s the smartest guy on here. While I was posting how our bullpen of Smoltz, Soriano, and Gonzo was going to be dominant, he was reminding us that there will continue to be health problems. Looks like I was the one who was wrong, unfortunately.”
I don’t claim to be one of the smartest, nor do I want to be.
I do however, have my thoughts, beliefs and opinions, and on (ahem) occasion, can be rather long-winded about them.
To me it was just common sense that three guys coming off of (or attempting to), injuries to their pitching arms/shoulder, were gonna struggle more often than not.
Gonzo, obviously has the greatest chance to be successful, because he he actually is recovering from FIXING the issue, not just resting it.
However, it is common knowledge that recovery from TJ surgery takes 12-18 months, and he is just past the 12 months stage, so expecting dominance from him right away would be foolish, IMO. Impossible? No. Probable? No.
Like I said…common sense, not uber-intelligence. But I thank you for the compliment.
Lew
“Maybe you could provide a Cat O’ Nine Tails so he can self flagellate after Kelly Johnson finishes paying his penance for dropping a pop up”
Good stuff as always. LOL!
I was upset with KJ (for not using 2 hands), for the dropped pop up. But the Braves had MANY chances to win that game, both before AND after it happened, and failed to do so.
KJ (and every Braves player), is allowed a defensive blunder once in a blue moon. However, the team continuing to stink it up offensively, is not allowed. LOL!
I’m already over KJ’s drop. Pretty much was 10 minutes after it happened. Just proved that this team can and WILL continue to find strange ways to lose.
Now if Jeff had been the one to drop it……
Braveheart
I think the Braves will offer 7 years and 150 million. It’s not THAT out of line. With Smoltz, Hampton and Glavine more than likely coming “off the books” next year (or for sure the year after with Glavine), why not give it to Tex?
I just still don’t think it will be enough. Somebody will offer more.
Add to that, I’m not sure, that we can “afford” to have a player making over 20 million per year, be a guy that continuously and self admits that he starts very slow.
If you’re the Yanks or Red Sox, you can “afford” to have your big gun come out of the gates slowly. With our payroll, we need all guns firing from game one.
I’m VERY curious to see how the payroll is handled this upcoming off-season. It will tell us a LOT about our future. Sorry to state the obvious.LOL!
By Mike Hampton Blows
June 8, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
Yes…of our 102 million dollar payroll we now have over 37 million not playing this year…Smoltz, Hampton (the highest paid Brave at 15.9 million), Kotsay, Diaz, and Gonzalez. That is a great job of managing your budget…errrr, not….on the bright side all those guys plus Tex are gone next year and that will free up over 50 million to go after some young free agent talent…….
By Mike Hampton Blows
June 8, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
Yes…of our 102 million dollar payroll we now have over 37 million not playing this year…Smoltz, Hampton (the highest paid Brave at 15.9 million), Kotsay, Diaz, and Gonzalez. That is a great job of managing your budget…errrr, not….on the bright side all those guys plus Tex are gone next year and that will free up over 50 million to go after some young free agent talent…….
By Mike Hampton Blows
June 8, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
Yes…of our 102 million dollar payroll we now have over 37 million not playing this year…Smoltz, Hampton (the highest paid Brave at 15.9 million), Kotsay, Diaz, and Gonzalez. That is a great job of managing your budget…errrr, not….on the bright side all those guys plus Tex are gone next year and that will free up over 50 million to go after some young free agent talent…….
By Mike Hampton Blows
June 8, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
Yes…of our 102 million dollar payroll we now have over 37 million not playing this year…Smoltz, Hampton (the highest paid Brave at 15.9 million), Kotsay, Diaz, and Gonzalez. That is a great job of managing your budget…errrr, not….on the bright side all those guys plus Tex are gone next year and that will free up over 50 million to go after some young free agent talent…….
By McFann
June 8, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
Will, he literally lost the season last night? I bet you could care less what happens for the next 99 games right? Roman Gal
LOL…People and their “LY” adjectives…we were literally just talking about that last night. That’s basically hilarious.
What’s this about Chipper?? If he’s out, we’re getting swept…
By AdirondackDave
June 8, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
What I don’t get is how the Braves can offer Tex 20M per and still pay chipper the 11-12M. I mean Chipper’s a great team guy and 11-12M is a lot of money but can he live with Tex making nearly twice as much? If it were my money I’d put it in proven young pitching.
By Lew
June 8, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
Hampton Blows-Let’s get this straight-you’re telling us that over $37 million of the Braves’ payroll is on the DL? Do I have that right? Really? Are you sure? Funny none of us realized that before you pointed it out four times. I thought we’d been injury free so far. Maybe I should pay closer attention.
By jukeandjive
June 8, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
DOB
I was at Schaeffer’s games Thursday and last nite. What wasn’t in the box score was that other than the 2 K’s he just missed a homer to dead center (at the wall), and hit 2 hard liners right at people that made great defensive plays to barely get him out.
A couple of things I really like about him is his confidence, his plate patience, and he plays a very shallow center with very good range. You can tell he’s got that “it” about him. I stand by what I said after watching him on Thursday. He’ll be up in ATL by 8/31 if he continues to progress. I think FW and BC aren’t going to stick with Blanco and Anderson out there all summer. They don’t have what he’s got. Keep Blanco in left and 8th and bring on Schaeffer in center…
By cabravesfan
June 8, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
McFann- Chipper’s calling it a strain, docs are calling it a slight tear (if there is a difference…)- will probably be out a couple of games- it’s a groin/quad muscle- same one he hurt earlier
By jukeandjive
June 8, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this
ESPN is reporting that Chipper is out for the next couple of days and that Infante is playing 3rd but that Esco is batting third in the lineup.
By Carroll Rogers
June 8, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this
tried to post another blog here folks, on chipper being out of the lineup with a quad strain. right now the link on the front of the website has several blogs stagged on top of each other. i’ve asked them to sort that out. but bear with me….
By Red
June 8, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this
Braves suck.
By beau vighn
June 8, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
Let me get this straight, Your playing the divison leaders…You’ve lost the first two games to go 5.5 back…what do you do. You sit your 2 best players ( Chip, and Mac ) instead of Kelly and Francouer. Cox is just giving this game away. If we win this game I will kiss your a* on the pitchers mound and give you 2 days to draw a crowd.
By Mike
June 8, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
Phils have a helluva lineup. http=”templefootballforever.blogspot.com”
By varoadrunner
June 8, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
Jeff (Mr double-play) Francouer