AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > June > 12 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USBraves need to play like 1948
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Chicago _ On another windy day from Wrigley Field, where the Braves and Cubs are wearing 1948-era uniforms for this series finale and the Braves would like to play like that 1948 pennant-winning team, we say to all the denizens in Braves/MIB blogland: Hello again, everybody.
(Had to steal a phrase and pay homage to my man Skip Caray, son of Chicago broadcasting legend Harry Caray, who, during my first years on this beat, was still doing his thing and singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” behind the glass wall in the radio booth 20 feet to the left of where I’m sitting right now.)
Anyway, should be a good game today, with Tim Hudson and the Braves facing Carlos Zambrano and the surging Cubs, who’ve won 13 of their past 16 games and have a 10-game home winning streak.
Couple of loose ends before we get started here in this 1:20 p.m. Central Time game.
— Tom Glavine: Not sure when we’re going to hear the report on today’s MRI on his troublesome left elbow. He’s having it done back in Atlanta and I’d guess we’ll get the results sometime today before the Braves board their charter flight to Anaheim, but I just don’t know for sure.
— Rafael Soriano: He was unavailable to pitch last night, Bobby Cox said this morning when we asked about Soriano’s ongoing, day-to-day elbow situation. This is not a good situation, obviously, for a team’s closer to have to tell them each day before the game whether he feels OK to pitch.
I asked Bobby in the dugout this morning if Soriano would get another MRI when the Braves get back to Atlanta after this long trip, and he replied, “He’s had every test in the world, and it’s still sore.”
— Charlie Morton: I asked Cox if the big pitching prospect would have any pitch-count restrictions in his major league debut Saturday, and Cox said no, just gonna turn him loose. Maybe someone will tell him, “Hey, kid, this is Vlad Guerrero. Don’t give him anything anywhere near the plate.”
— Jeff Bennett: Had to leave immediately after the game last night because his wife was hospitalized here in Chicago. It’s OK, she’s doing fine now. As for Bennett’s performance - seven runs, seven hits, left without an out in the third inning - he said he just made a couple of bad mistakes, including a slider over the plate to Fukudome for that three-run homer in the first inning.
Regarding the pitch that broke Alfonso Soriano’s hand, Bennett said he was trying to strike him out on an inside fastball and it just got away. He also pointed out that it shoud’ve been obvious he wasn’t trying to hit him, with the count 0-2 and two outs, and a runner at second base.
Bennett didn’t believe that the Cubs would do any retaliation work today against Braves hitters, pointing out that “they already hit Mac.” Brian McCann was hit by Dempster in the fourth inning. Dempster had otherwise great control last night, walking none in nine innings.
Soriano’s out for about six weeks, probably. Big blow for the Cubs.
Too bad - for the Braves - that he couldn’t have missed this and every other series against them in the past few years. He kills them like no other hitter: .371 with nine doubles, two triples, 14 homers and 31 RBI in 30 games against the Braves since 2005.
His .363 career average, .416 OBP and .770 slugging percentage are his second-best totals in each category, behind his numbers against Pittsburgh (.381/.433/.782).
And his replacement today is….
_ Eric Patterson: The former Harrison High and Georgia Tech standout, and brother of Corey Patterson, was recalled from Triple-A and is starting in left field and leading off today for the Cubs.
Patterson was an eighth-round pick in the 2004 draft and a 2007 Pacific League All-Star.
_ Retro uniforms: Both teams are wearing 1948 replica uniforms to honor the 60th anniversary of Cubs baseball on WGN. The ’48 Boston Braves went 93-60 and won the NL pennant before losing to Cleveland in the World Series.
Hey, I’m looking down at the Bravos stretching down the right-field line, and I gotta say I like the uni’s. Very similar to the current uniforms, except for the stirrips with the variable-width strips and the blue caps with red bills and a plain “B” instead of the familiar “A.”
And Corky Miller looks like some kind of barnstorming 40s-era player in his, with the gut and the 5 o’clock shadow and the socks and all that.
Cubs uniforms are clean, man. Sweeeet. White uniforms, no stripes, pin or otherwise. Only stripes are the red ones on their navy-blue socks.
Also, the hundreds of the stadium employees are wearing white straw hats, and they even passed out faux black fedoras (made of cardboard or something) with a press pass stuck in the band. It’s a good look for me. Think I’ll wear it instead of the Stone Mountain Harley Davidson cap I brought to the park.
_ Zambrano is unbeaten at Wrigley Field this year (4-0, 2.38 ERA in eight starts). So was last night’s starter Ryan Dempster, who still is after pitching a four-hitter with 11 strikeouts. Dempster’s 8-0 in nine home starts, and hasn’t won on the road.
This place has always been in my top three ballparks to visit, but the atmosphere has never been quite as electric as it is now. By that I mean, they’ve had sellout crowds on Tuesday and Wednesday nights to start this series, and I didn’t see any unused seats in the ballpark. Most of the rooftop seats on surrounding apartment buildings have also been filled for the first two games.
The Cubs have the best record and best home record in baseball, and they’ve got a talented team that’s thriving in this environment.
OK, let’s play some ‘ball. The Braves, in case you’ve missed it, could really use a win.
Uh, that’s my understatement of the day.
Folks, the Braves desperately need a win, to avert a second consecutive series sweep and so that no one is tempted to jump from the plane after a few cocktails during the four-hour flight to California later today.
Sixteen losses in their last 19 road games, including eight of nine … astonishing. Awful.
And do you realize that Chipper Jones (.370) is the only Braves regular hitting over .260 on the road? They have six regulars hitting .308 or higher at Turner Field.
”EVERYBODY HURTS” by R.E.M.
When the day is long and the night, the night is yours alone,
When you’re sure you’ve had enough of this life, well hang on
Don’t let yourself go, ‘cause everybody cries and everybody hurts sometimes
Sometimes everything is wrong. Now it’s time to sing along
When your day is night alone, (hold on, hold on)
If you feel like letting go, (hold on)
When you think you’ve had too much of this life, well hang on
‘Cause everybody hurts. Take comfort in your friends
Everybody hurts. Don’t throw your hand. Oh, no. Don’t throw your hand
If you feel like you’re alone, no, no, no, you are not alone
If you’re on your own in this life, the days and nights are long,
When you think you’ve had too much of this life to hang on
Well, everybody hurts sometimes,
Everybody cries. And everybody hurts sometimes
And everybody hurts sometimes. So, hold on, hold on
Hold on, hold on, hold on, hold on, hold on, hold on
Everybody hurts. You are not alone
Comments
By 18 Wheels of Love
June 12, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
Peterbilt
Peterbilt
Go get the new My Morning Jacket CD…it is worth it just for the one song, Highly Suspicious.
By Jeff321
June 12, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
Ya know the first two innings on WGN in black&white w/lame camera angles is for the dogs!
By Mark
June 12, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this
R.E.M. - Best. Band. Ever.
By flange1
June 12, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
yeah new bloggage!!!!
By N8
June 12, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
uno?
By RC
June 12, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
Not able to watch on TV, so can anyone tell me how in the world Chipper “singles to 2b”. Isn’t he supposed to be nursing a sore leg?
By Carolina Fan
June 12, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
Thank God, they’re not earing those blue marketing ploys. I will gladly drive down to Atlanta to help burn them.
By Supes
June 12, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
Chipper with a hit…granted it was a lucky bounce on a slow roller to second…but that’s what it’s going to take if he is even going to get close to hitting .400 for the season.
I think we were all holding our breath as he started to “leg that hit out” and like Joe Simpson said…best thing was that DLee went to field the ball opening 1st for Chipper to slow down.
Desperate Times today. Need Tim Hudson to go 8 innings and pitch his best game of the season.
By almighty bunghole
June 12, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
The braves pitching staff needs to go back to lake titicaca and find tp for their bunghole
By Efrim
June 12, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
So weird. Chipper got a hit and no one else did that inning. So strange.
By Cecil34
June 12, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this
Wish I could see the ‘48 uni’s in action.
I heard that!
No, I was not around in 1948.
Go Braves, whip the Cubbies.
By Supes
June 12, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this
JEFF FRANCINE sighting!
I’ll be damn, he actually contributed to a game with RBI’s.
Small glimmer of hope.
By Efrim
June 12, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
Keep it going Jeff.
By David O'Brien
June 12, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
18 Wheels, I got the CD. I’m really digging it.
FRENCHY going ‘yard. Two-run jack. Wind’s blowing to left today, but he stroked that one pretty good anyway.
By cricket
June 12, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
DOB Maybe someone will tell him, “Hey, kid, this is Vlad Guerrero. Don’t give him anything anywhere near the plate.”
Considering Vladimir’s “approach”, won’t matter if the pitch is in the other batter’s box.
By McFann
June 12, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
HEY!! They oughta wear these uni’s more often!!
Let’s get this party started!
By BravesFanInRockies
June 12, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
Nothing like retro unis and a day game to get Frenchy untracked.
By 22oz
June 12, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
Perfect song choice!
By RC
June 12, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this
Btw, Baseball Prospectus had a really interesting article today or yesterday about Chipper’s chances of actually hitting .400 this season. The guy calculated out comparables for both Chipper’s hitting ability, and all pitchers he is likely to face in the National League this year, then ran a simulation program 1,000 times, taking into account potential injury as well. The results were that they figure he has between a 12-13 percent chance of doing it. Sounds low, but I’d say those are pretty good odds in June for ANYONE trying to hit .400.
By N8
June 12, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
F*******, F*******, F*******, F*******, F*******, F*******, F*******, F*******, F*******, F*******, F*******, F*******.
Take THAT AJC blog sensor.
By Chop Chop
June 12, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
Francoeur is God.
Two-run bomb in the first.
EAT IT, H8RZ!
(Okay, okay. The homer was nice. Let’s not make any more out of it than it was, folks.)
By beavis
June 12, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
The braves pitching staff needs to go back to lake titicaca and find tp for their bunghole
huh huh huh huh….fire f-f-fire!
By Chop Chop
June 12, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
(P.S.: Notice how I screwed up which inning Francoeur hit the homer in? I thought it a nice touch.)
By keylargo
June 12, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this
One thing would not have worked out in 1948 at Wrigley Field - that Japanese player would not have lived if he tried to play. 1948 America was not very politically correct.
RC
Chipper topped a slow roller to 2B that no one could get to. No play at all to first and Chipper did not have to bust it all the way to the bag.
By N8
June 12, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this
I get a HUGE kick out the fact that you can’t type a BASEBALL PLAYER’S NAME on a blog centered around…….BASEBALL.
Gotta love censoring, huh?
Fans of Chicago LOVE F*******. At least that’s what I’ve heard.
By iowabrave
June 12, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
Nice backhand DP by Johnson to end the 2nd..who says the man can’t pick it at 2nd?
By McFann
June 12, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
DOB—
We’re lookin’ for you in your hat…
Great job to get out for trouble, Timmy!
By Supes
June 12, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
So far Huddy is delivering. 8 strong innings Tim, this team desperately needs that from you today. Become the ace and leader of the pitching staff (now that Smoltzie out).
By cricket
June 12, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
WHOO !!! thank JE for the DP. Pitch avg is already up to 17/IP.
Come on guys, someone get on base ahead of Chipper.
By TennesseePaul
June 12, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this
I like the Braves chances today. And a clutch hit from Francoeur to boot! Good way to go on get away day. That reminds me of At the Drive-In. Send transmission through a one armed scissor! Get Away! Get Away!.
By Coach (NOT DRINKING THE KOOL AID)
June 12, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this
That was very neat, being able to see the game in black in white for the first two innings. But, the camera angles really stink.
Huddy is dealing, the Braves are up 2-0. maybe we might actually get to see a win today? I have my fingers crossed.
By cricket
June 12, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
Damn!! 9 pitch inning for Z.
By LT-AA Blogger
June 12, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
Love the uniforms. At least, a brief reprieve from the curse of the navy jersey.
Gotta win this today! Nice start- Hudson looking good. However, I say trade Tex if we lose this today! jk
By Herschel Talker
June 12, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
DOB - you never take off your rose-colored glasses and are an eternal optimist. That being said, do you think they can get more for Tex now than if we wait until the deadline, when teams know the Braves will be motivated sellers, having little chance to compete with the evil empire. Also, please comment on the pitching farm system. It has come to my attention that the Braves haven’t successfully developed one of their own since Kevin Millwood. With Smoltz’s career in jeopardy and Glavine perhaps also done, and with many of us not happy to hinge our future on Chuck James and Jo Jo Reyes (though Jo Jo has improved as of late), what does the future hold in terms of starters? Do we not need to get some AAA or AA starters at the worst for Tex? I am unaware of anyone solid at AA and AAA except for Stockman. That leaves next year’s rotation as Hudson, Jurrjens, Stockman, Morton, and fill in the blank. That is a scary proposition.
By Robin
June 12, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
Good song choice DOB. Suck band however. :(
By TennesseePaul
June 12, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this
Highly Suspicious is an interesting cut. Vastly different than the rest of the album. Cracks me up when I hear it. They had to have had a great time recording it.
By Braveheart
June 12, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
Here’s a Chipper Jones scouting report:
http://www.dugoutcentral.com/blog/?p=1512
Seems like they rated his defensive skills a little higher than I think they are but they’re professional scouts so maybe I should take their word for it.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 12, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
Release Soriano, he is doing nothing but helping other arms blowout like his. His is doing nothing but blocking a roster spot. If 2 resting months didnt help him, he will help us this year. Trade him or DL him. Move on. There is no time for experiments or patience.
By McFann
June 12, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
Uh…I meant “of trouble”…
By Rodney Derrick
June 12, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this
Oh no!!! Cubs announcers just said Hampton has strained his oblique and has had to shelve his rehab again for now. Is this true, DOB?
By LT-AA Blogger
June 12, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
Another nice DP- thought I’d jinxed Hud there with some praise.
By Supes
June 12, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
Great job of getting out of that 3rd inning jam by Huddy. DP and a groundout.
Braves need to jump on Zambrano for a couple of more runs. Come on offense, pick up Huddy and give him some more runs to work with.
No lead is safe with the Blowpen waiting to pitch late in the game.
By cricket
June 12, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
Hope they don’t wait till 8th to score another run against this AL lineup with Zambrano batting.
By David O'Brien
June 12, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
Oops. I was absent-mindedly typing away posts on the other blog…
By David O’Brien June 12, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this DAP, it’s usually coffee and grapefruit juice, but the tiny starbucks counter in the hotel lobby had no grapefruit juice.
I’m drinking bad ballpark pressbox coffee now. But the slice of Connie’s deep dish pizza that I just ate was actually pretty good. Better than any pizza at Turner Field, that’s for sure.
By David O’Brien June 12, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this How ‘bout this five-day lineup of opposing pitchers: Dempster, Zambrano, tomorrow Garland (3-0, 2.28 ERA in his past seven starts), Saturday Ervin Santana 8-2, 3.01), and Joe Saunders (9-3, 3.32) on Sunday night.
By Seven Pitches
June 12, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
Can Frenchy wear this uni from now on?
By A-ville Ranger
June 12, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
I’d rather party like it’s ”nine.teen.ninty.five”.
By Chop Chop
June 12, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this
Hmm…
Someone the other day was interested in Milton Bradley becoming a Brave. Well, he went cuckoo last night. Granted, the article does not say exactly what the Royals’ announcer said, but most sane people would not attempt to go charging upstairs into the booth because of a slight.
Besides, DOB would be in danger. We can’t have that.
By keylargo
June 12, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this
I don’t think I have seen a pitcher in MLB work as fast as Zambrano does. He is a head case and if the Braves can frustrate him he will blow up.
On another note, the uniforms look so good, that after this win today, we should play in them on the road. Would they have to have MLB permission since they are Boston Braves uniforms?
By Efrim
June 12, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this
Overlord-D-Day
Release Soriano, he is doing nothing but helping other arms blowout like his. His is doing nothing but blocking a roster spot. If 2 resting months didnt help him, he will help us this year. Trade him or DL him. Move on. There is no time for experiments or patience.
You’re not into making intelligent comments today. Must not be your thing.
By BX
June 12, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
If we win, can we wear the ‘48 jerseys on the road for the rest of the year?
By Braveheart
June 12, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
How annoying is the lisp of that lady in the peanut commercial that plays on every commercial break on Peachtree?
If she ate as much peanut butter as she claims, she wouldn’t have that darn annoying lisp.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 12, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
Rodney Derrick I also heard that, but I think he was referring to the pectoral injury he suffered. I dont think they are watching for Hamptons progress that closely. Possible, but if you ask me, he was talking without knowledge. I could be wrong but that would be my guess. He just wanted to add a little more salt to his comments.
I read somewhere today (not sure if it was on this site), that Hampton was having positive progress.
By David O'Brien
June 12, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
Forgot to mention: Hampton is going to throw a simulated game in Anaheim, probably tomorrow.
By David
June 12, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
8 innings from Huddy? Heck, without the closer situation, why not go NINE?
By N8
June 12, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this
Keylargo
“On another note, the uniforms look so good, that after this win today, we should play in them on the road.”
Thanks a lot, A-hole. Assuming that the game is already “won”, surely will jinx them. Well done.
Just kidding, of course (about the A-hole part, that is).
By kirknga
June 12, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this
We need more runs! Two are not enough.
By Jeff321
June 12, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
Tex — 0/11 in this series. I tell ya, that’s the way to “step it up”, eh? You poser!
By McFann
June 12, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
Arg….281…
Mmm…pizza…
By keylargo
June 12, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
N8
I’m trying my best to be optimistic. You should try it sometime! 8)
By Renegator
June 12, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
That DP from Chipper really hurt
By A-ville Ranger
June 12, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
Hudson has some wicked movement today.Hopefully he can get some quick outs,keep his pitch count below 100 and go 8 or 9.
By David O'Brien
June 12, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Robin, I knew we probably disagree on most everything. The fact that you called REM a “suck band” confirms it, without a doubt.
Herschel: Eternal optimist? No, just covering the team, my man. Just stating facts. Bad as they’ve been (terrible) lately, and as many injuries as they’ve had, fact is, no team that’s 6-1/2 games out in a mediocre division with more than 90 games left to play is out of it, at least in the view of those making decisions. You simply cannot wave the white flag and look to the future when people have spent hard-earned money to buy tickets for the remaining half-season of home games, and when sponsors have paid huge fees, and when you’re not one of the handful of major league teams that actually blows up and rebuilds from scratch because they draw flies for home games and it doesn’t matter anyway.
It’s called reality, Herschel. team’s played terrible lately, and for much of the season. But they don’t make decisions based on the day-to-day mood or whims of vocal fans and/or bloggers. It’s big business. Very big business. Far more complicated that your turning off the TV and being upset and saying, fire this guy and trade that guy.
By jukeandjive
June 12, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Can you say K-K-K for Hudson? Nice pitching. Let’s get some more runs baby!
By beau vighn
June 12, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Hey, I like these retro uni’s. It looks like Francouer is having a Parkview flashback. Hudson will probably have to go nine if we want to win.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 12, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
Efrim Soriano has not been a factor this year, nor last year. He will not be a factor. His arm is screwed. Part ways with him. He is looking like Hampton part 2. Learn to lose. There is something wrong with him and they cant figure it out. The team needs fresh arms in the bullpen, not a road block.
By Big Easy
June 12, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
Just heard Pete mention you, DOB…said you were not wearing your Fedora…
~E~
By David O'Brien
June 12, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
Hudson struck out four in a row before that Patterson hit.
By David O'Brien
June 12, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
Look at Hoss, making that bare-handed play coming in, bad leg and all. Chipper really looks more like a throwback player than any of the others out there, with that short hair and that aging face.
By ncscoots
June 12, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
You’re not into making intelligent comments today [Overlord]
And “today” would be different because ???
By jukeandjive
June 12, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
D Lee’s Fly Ball to center made my heart sink for a moment. Whew…
By Braveheart
June 12, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Someone the other day was interested in Milton Bradley becoming a Brave. Well, he went cuckoo last night. Granted, the article does not say exactly what the Royals’ announcer said, but most sane people would not attempt to go charging upstairs into the booth because of a slight.
Nah, Chop Chop. An outfield of Lofton, Bonds, Bradley is much better than Blanco, Norton, Francoeur. That you can not deny.
By Cecil34
June 12, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Gosh, it is so nice to see ballplayers wearing stirrup socks instead of slouchy leasure slacks.
The Braves look like ballplayers!
I like this….
By Efrim
June 12, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Overlord-D-Day
Efrim Soriano has not been a factor this year, nor last year. He will not be a factor. His arm is screwed. Part ways with him. He is looking like Hampton part 2. Learn to lose. There is something wrong with him and they cant figure it out. The team needs fresh arms in the bullpen, not a road block.
Soriano was a non factor last year? Do you have any idea what you are talking about? I guess not. I’m not going to post Soriano’s stats from last year. You can look them up yourself, along with Kelly Johnson’s stats this season.
By David O'Brien
June 12, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
Again, sim game tomorrow for Hampton, according to Roger McDowell before today’s game. Bobby had said it would be sometime this weekend, and when I asked Roger, he said they’re trying to set it up for tomorrow.
By Efrim
June 12, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this
Poor Tim Hudson. How about some more runs?
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 12, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
I feel for ESCO, looks like he’s having a time out there. We used to call that “trying out for the circus” — lots of juggling going on.
By Jeff321
June 12, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
Can anyone honestly tell me how Frenchy didn’t just catch that hit? I have seen several which seem to drop right in front of him. Now, of course thats a better play than risking it going to the wall. However, with a bad wheel, Frenchy needs to be on the DL, not stinking up the outfield.
By Big Easy
June 12, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
Cecil34, I couldn’t agree with you more. Free the stirrups! The pajama pants look has gotten way out of hand.
~E~
By 1957 Braves Fan
June 12, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Let’s give Tim more run support! Why do we always settle for 2 runs? Go Braves!
By Interested Observer
June 12, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
Is it just me or does Francouer let way too many pops fall at his feet. Looks like he just stops and waits for them to hit the ground.
By keylargo
June 12, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this
Overlord
Are you suggesting that the Braves not only let Soriano go, but finish paying him $2.4 million of salary this year and $6.1 million next year? And watch him play for someone else?
WOW, what a statement.
By It-cant-get-any-worse
June 12, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
I wish someone would tell the guys that it IS ok to score more runs than in just one inning. Nobody will mind, really. This is their problem, they get a lead and they can’t add on to it.
By jukeandjive
June 12, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
Ruh-Roh. Houston we may have a problem…
By TURTSNAP
June 12, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
Jeff321, simple, if he dives for it and misses it, the ball gets by him in no mans land and more damage would be done.
By David O'Brien
June 12, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
So this is why they swapped Campillo with Morton. Might be a little tired of seeing the Blaine and Manny show in these tight spots, I guess.
By bravesfan
June 12, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
D-Backs just tied the game 4-4 off Wagner.
By A-ville Ranger
June 12, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
When you talk about ”blowing up the team”.That would be moving,Chipper,McCann,Escobar and Hudson.Only a few emotional types are even thinking about that.Tex is a different story.The fact is he has the biggest nut-pimple in baseball as an agent and I doubt there’ll be a discount for the Braves.That means what 20 million a year ? If we fade further AND Wren knows he’s not going to bid with ”nut-pimple” it starts making good business sense to explore the trading options.Under NO circumstances would I want to deplete the young core for unproven prospects though.
By David O'Brien
June 12, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
Zambrano came in hitting .364 for the year and .444 (16-for-36) with four extra-base hits, a homer and six RBI in his last 14 starts, for those wondering why Lou left him in.
By McFann
June 12, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
DOUBLE NUMBER 20!!
Got his 20th before Soto got his…And that’s number 99 on Brian’s career.
By David
June 12, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
Intentionally walk Francoeur??? Maybe I should wait until after Norton bats to post this, but still??? WOW!!
By keylargo
June 12, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
McFann
I haven’t heard you comment on the uniforms. This is how baseball players looked before they started wearing pajamas. Don’t you like it?
Nothing like speed on the bases. Double in the RF corner and Tex can’t score from first. I want everyone to remember we will be the same team next year only Tex will be making $23 or so million a year if he resigns. Is that what we need?
By cricket
June 12, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
High time for Eyre to give up 1st runs of the season.
By A-ville Ranger
June 12, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
I’ll say it again, pulling his hands in and hitting that high-inside pitch is what separates McCann from the pack.
By TURTSNAP
June 12, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
DOB - I heard somewhere that Campillo might start the makeup game in Colorado? I’d like to see him stay in the bullpen, he has been lights out there
By DAP
June 12, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this
all he had to do was put it in play.
By StingerSplash
June 12, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
Trying to think ahead a little here … If the Braves keep this lead with 1-3 runs going into the ninth, who in hades is supposed to close? Is Soriano’s elbow OK? If not, who do you trust in the pen now? Anyone? Bueller? Bueller?
By TURTSNAP
June 12, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
A healthy and focused Matt Diaz would’ve looked good right there with the bases loaded and no one out. Norton - DOH!
By Cody
June 12, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
I believe the Braves need another power bat in the line-up I mean come on basesloaded situations are killing us. Blanco needs to go not Anderson.
By beekay
June 12, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
DOB If we do try to trade Tex say in July if we are 10 games back, can we really expect much in return? The teams know that he is going to be asking for 150 million committment. I’m thinking maybe a couple prospects at best, certainly no where near what we gave up for him. Would we only get 1 first round pick as compensation if someone signs him after the season?
By Efrim
June 12, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
Gotta come through with at least one run with the bases loaded and no one out, right?!?!?!
By jukeandjive
June 12, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Why did we send anderson down instead of blanco? CAN SOMEONE PLEASE TELL ME?
By David O'Brien
June 12, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Blanco has been awful in those spots, and lefties have been carving him up in any situation.
Of course, Braves don’t have another CF except Infante, now that they’ve sent down Josh Anderson.
By LT-AA Blogger
June 12, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Man,
This is why they’re losing all these close games. This team really, really needs Kotsay to miraculously heal!!! C’mon Infante- pick it up man!
By cricket
June 12, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Please let Campillo bat. I believe he is our best hitter available.
By Epinephrine
June 12, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Two strike out LOOKING is just unacceptable with the bases juiced. Horrible. Bench Norton Now.
By StingerSplash
June 12, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
OK, so Blanco just compounded Norton’s bad AB with an even worse AB? Can’t take a called strike three right there. Just can’t. Your team is struggling, you’ve got a chance to put a ball in play and you are tough to double up, you’ve got to swing. It’s just that simple. At this point, I think I’d rather see Josh Anderson get re-called to get some PT over Blanco.
By ArkyTech
June 12, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Uh, the Blanco gimmick is over.
And it’s becoming quite clear there was a reason Norton was a 35-year old journeyman that a last-place team didn’t have room for.
By cricket
June 12, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
How I wish Anderson was playing instead of Norton or Blanco..
By Robin
June 12, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Thanks a lot DOB, calling me out and all. Really professional of ya. As far as disagreeing, I’ve been following this team since the late 70’s, through thick n’ thin. I believe I’m “qualified” enough to make some educated opinions/analysis. (wink) Oh, and I’ve been “professionally” involved in the music business for 30+ years also. May have a bit of insight as far as that goes too. Wanna see my credentials?
By DAP
June 12, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
unbefreakinlievable.
By A-ville Ranger
June 12, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
Oh boy,who sees it coming again ?
By El bravo (EbX)
June 12, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
Game over, Cubs win…
By Jeff321
June 12, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
Ya gotta love it.. Tex doesn’t score from first on the double. (I guess he was trying not to tweak his buttocks rounding third.) And now bases loaded, no one out and we have ZIP to show for it. L A M E ! ! !
By Geoff
June 12, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
They deserve every-bit to lose after that half inning…. OMG!
By RC
June 12, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
That was terrible….
By TURTSNAP
June 12, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
You want the Braves season in a nutshell? Take a look at the top of the 8th inning. Bases loaded, nobody out, then three straight K’s, UNBELIEVABLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By jukeandjive
June 12, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
I’m wondering… Is it offense or offensive? What in the world? I thought major leaguers new how to play baseball. Unbelievable…
By StingerSplash
June 12, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
I take that back. Infante’s AB was even worse than Blanco’s. You have that kind of approach at the plate, you deserve to lose, no matter what uniform you’re wearing.
By BS
June 12, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
How many times have the Braves had a runner on 3rd base with less than 2 outs and NOT SCORED! I am so p** that the Braves are trying to screw up Tim Hudson’s second straight great outing… Hit the stupid ball!
By Efrim
June 12, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
Wow.
By Renegator
June 12, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
Bases loaded with no outs and can’t score a run?
Sounds very familiar unfortunately…
By Plate Appearance
June 12, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
ANOTHER BLANK
Gregor Blanco draws another BLANKo with runners in scoring position.
Where’s Josh Anderson when he’s needed??
And again, why not bat Kelly Johnson in the lower part of the order where he’s been so productive in driving in runs??
Braves management decisions draw another blank!
By Coach (NOT DRINKING THE KOOL AID)
June 12, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
Top of the eighth 2-1 Braves, bases loaded, nobody out and the Braves fail to execute. They better hope like hell that the Cubs don’t score because this is how losing teams get beat.
By lvp
June 12, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
Gutless Wonders….Chokers…..whatever you want to call these losers…..Bases Loaded and nobody out….nothing!!! We all know what happens next don’t we….How will these scumbags lose this one?
By keylargo
June 12, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
That was some clutch hitting.
Me, McFann and N8 could have done as good.
By ernesto
June 12, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
I wonder if we’ll end up the season as the worst hitting team in history with the bases loaded and no one out.
I’m just waiting for the law of averages…it owes us a lot of runs.
By McFann
June 12, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
Keylargo—
Yeah, I like it! 8 )
A-ville Ranger—
I totally agree! What a great swing! BTW—How’s your Wren nest?
By beavis
June 12, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
Golly gee….I sure hope Manny Acosta gets to pitch.
By Tomas
June 12, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
The bases loaded nobody out, and they struck out three times. Come on….. Blanco is really sucking right now.
By Stephen
June 12, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
DOB, What would you think of bringing Renteria back? Could move Kelly to LF, Yunel to 2B and, of course, Edgar at SS. That would help solve a problem or two.
By kirknga
June 12, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
Well we could not put the ball in play after loading the bases with none out. Should’ve gotten at least one run out that situation.
By bravegator
June 12, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
typical
By jukeandjive
June 12, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this
Alright we already practiced this last Friday. 2 quick outs. 2 get on. Kelly you’re up. Remember 2 hands!!!
By lvp
June 12, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this
Blaine Boyer (gag)..oh oh lets see after walking Ramirez if he can get by without walking 2 more batters….in any event, I’m betting he will give up the tying and go ahead runs with 2 out
By cricket
June 12, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this
Now Boyer is making sure they get comfortable lead.
By jcmo71
June 12, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
This S H ! % is driving me crazy!
By jcmo71
June 12, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
This S H ! % is driving me crazy!
By Jeff
June 12, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
19 Runners LOB..Not looking good. I’ll bet you the bullpen will blow this game. Pathetic Losers!!! I just wanna punch this damn t.v. and computer. Please help!!
By BamaBravesFan
June 12, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
Ridiculous. I’m starting to believe that we won’t start playing better until someone with a brain creates the lineups.
GO BRAVES!!!
By RC
June 12, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
Btw, can anyone explain why Josh Anderson got sent down? Did he kill Bobby’s dog or something?
“Hey kid, thanks for coming in. You’ve done everything we’ve asked you to since calling you up, and you are probably the 5th most effective hitter on the team, but we’ve decided to go in another direction. See, the problem is that you actually TRIED to win when you were out there, and scoring runs isn’t really what this team is about. Here’s a plane ticket, your locker in Richmond is waiting.”
By ry
June 12, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
Wholly crap! This season is over unless the Braves can trade for a 1 or 2 spot starter AND a closer. It may be over anyway.
By ry
June 12, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
Wholly crap! This season is over unless the Braves can trade for a 1 or 2 spot starter AND a closer. It may be over anyway.
By lvp
June 12, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
Who blows it in the 9th…Boyer or Acosta?
By David O'Brien
June 12, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
Wow, that was more on-the-edge Braves ‘ball, wasn’t it. Yikes.
And guess what: I don’t even see Soriano in the bullpen sitting with the others.
By Efrim
June 12, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
Is Acosta actually warming up, that’s what CBS Sportsline says. I really think you should just give Ohman all of the 9th. I don’t care how bad he is in Wrigley.
By jukeandjive
June 12, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
Stephen
You obviously haven’t watched many Tigers games this year. Renteria has not had that good of a year. And everyone’s been talking about how little range he has left. He seems to be getting slowe