Braves

By almighty bunghole

June 17, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

the braves need tp for their new and less sucky bunghole

By Chuck James is solid until the 6th!! (Formerly Steve-O)

June 17, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

YESSSSSSS

By Tomahawkin

June 17, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

Hopefully we can get Padilla out of the game in 5 innings so that we can exploit their bullpen who has struggled off and on over the last 2 weeks…

Most people don’t know these Texas bats such as Ian Kinsler… ( who leds the league in runs if im not mistaking), hopefully Huddy can shut these guys down because it will not be pretty seeing Josh Hamiliton up there with runners on, he has been the truth so far this season, and some may say the A.L. MVP So far…

By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)

June 17, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

Definitely FIRST !!

By bravesfan

June 17, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Carroll, does it look like the weather is going to let us play tonight?

By Train Wreck Bystander

June 17, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Dish Network Fans:

FWIW, the Braves-Rangers games is listed on channel 450 tonight. However, it is showing as blacked out for me (Tennessee). YMMV.

By TennesseePaul

June 17, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the blog Carroll.

By Tomahawkin

June 17, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this

Carroll check out this link

http://www.stadiumsofnfl.com/future/CowboysStadium.htm

It will give you all the 411 about the cowboys new digs, all the features, construction photos etc

I might be a little down but wasn’t the last time Huddy Pitched in Arlington he got slapped by Soriano and his crew when he was with the Rangers in 2005…?

Huddy has to keep the ball down tonight, because I do not want to see that sick rangers offense upagainst Manny Acosta and the Blow-pen in the late innings because it will not look pretty seeing the rangers lick their chops once the see our blow-pen…

By DonCoburleone

June 17, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this

Here is a nice piece I read about a Braves prospect most of us know nothing about:

Diory Hernandez, Atlanta Braves

Since being promoted to Triple-A Richmond in late April, Hernandez is hitting .305 with four dingers, 25 RBIs, and 11 doubles over a span of 187 at-bats. Despite having good speed, Hernandez is a terrible basestealer. Last season he was 22-for-42 in base stealing attempts, and he is 1-for-7 (0-for-2 at Richmond) this year. Hernandez’s best trait offensively is his ability to make consistent contact, and he projects as a .270-.280 hitter at the major league level. The 24-year-old is also a fine defender that can play anywhere on the infield. He has outperformed fellow shortstop prospect Brent Lillibridge (.186-1-14 with 13 steals) this season, but the Braves are pleased with Kelly Johnson and Yunel Escobar in the middle infield. Hernandez’s best route to Atlanta could be as a utility player unless an injury occurs.

If this kid is awesome at 2B defensively, why not next year move Kelly Johnson to 1B and let Hernandez have a shot? I know KJ has been applauded on this blog and elsewhere for his defense at 2B, but in reality he is average at best. I can’t count on both hands the number of times he’s cost us a double play either by A)failing to get the ball to second base quickly enough or B)failing to catch and throw the ball in a timely fashion. I realize this seems like a longshot, but we are going to have to do something at first base next year when Tex is gone (and we all know Scott Thorman is NOT the answer!)

By justin

June 17, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

Carroll Great Blog! Just wondering your thoughts on what the deal is with Brandon Jones? It was mentioned somewhere else that the only reason the Braves called him up was to increase his trade value, got any info on this? I hope it’s not true because he sure reminds me of another 25 who used to play outfield for us(David Justice). Hopefully he can keep it going and knock out a couple of hits again tonight.

By Robin

June 17, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

60% chance of rain in the Dallas area. Sure hope we can get this game in, nothing worse than a rain-out after a win. Need to keep it going.

By MBPELICAN

June 17, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

its says there is 30% chance or rain during game time, my guess that is just southern heat storms that pop up from time to time during the Summer.

By DonCoburleone

June 17, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

Nice article Carroll, and good breakdown of that trade. No doubt it is still going to take a few years to fully assess the deal, but right now I’d say its looking like the Rangers definately got the better end of it. Within 2-4 years the players they acquired from us could very well be filling major roles on their big league roster. Think about it, if everything goes according to plan the Rangers could end up with an elite catcher (Salty), a top of the rotation starter (Feliz), a middle of the rotation innings eater (Harrison), and a very good to elite Shortstop (Andrus). We could very well end up looking back on this trade in a few years and wishing it had never happened…

By SeattleBravesFan

June 17, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

To all the naysayers and pooh-poohers on this blog. Let me point out the debacle that is the Mets. No matter how frustrating the losses are. No matter how lost Frenchy looks at the plate most times. No matter how often you feel the need to question our manager’s decisions.

Just take a second and look at the team up north and realize how good we as fans have got it. We have been able to be fans of one of the classiest franchises in all of sports for the last 17-18 years.

Think about that. I almost feel sorry for Met fans today, cause they are witnessing first hand what a hack job their front office is and how they will never be able to sustain winning.

We Brave fans have it good folks. We just do. Enjoy it while it lasts.

By justin

June 17, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

Don I don’t know man. I know Kelly to first has gotten a lot of attention, and personally I think it’s a good idea, but if we are gonna move him to first we need to bring in something better than a 270-280 hitter to play second(hence Furcal who I think started this discussion). Diory could prove to be valuable on the trade market for us though.

By TennesseePaul

June 17, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

DonC: Yes. In 2-4 years the players they acquired from the Braves could very well be filling major roles on the big league roster. How much worse would it appear then if Teixeira goes to free agency only to be signed by the Ranges for a bit more than originally offered. They’d get all the player AND Teixeira.

By Chop Chop

June 17, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

I’m not surprised that Carroll’s breakdown of the Teixeira trade makes it sound like a solid deal for the Braves, yet [this breakdown] by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram has a slightly different take on things.

Here’s their final take:

Edge: Rangers

Mark Teixeira didn’t want to re-sign with the Rangers, or he would have been just fine with their $140 million offer last year. Now, he might not re-sign with the Braves. By the end of the season, all Atlanta could have to show for the trade is a failed World Series bid, no major-league players and five potential big-leaguers playing in a different organization. There are no guarantees on the Rangers’ haul, but chances are good that they received future contributors.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 17, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

DonC,

You say We could very well end up looking back on this trade in a few years and wishing it had never happened.

I don’t get it. Salty wasn’t going to take playing time away from McCann. Andrus is blocked by Escobar and any number of other potential 2B, from Kelly to Prado to Hernandez to Lillibridge.

The pitchers may pan out or may be worse than the ones the Braves have on the club in two or three years.

If the Braves didn’t make that trade, what would you have had them do? Play Salty at first?

By Greg

June 17, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Can somebody smack Hank Steinbrenner upside the head. This buttface says his pitchers are too delicate to run the bases so the NL should adopt the DH. And I thought his father was an anus.

By Chop Chop

June 17, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

DAMMIT.

Here’s that breakdown again…for the first time.

By Tomahawkin

June 17, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop Good Insight from the Star-Telegram, all I’d figured they would be talking about Josh Hamiliton’s bid for the Triple Crown (even though his batting avg. is way off the league lead) but I’m glad you found that tid-bit on how this trade could be a complete fiasco is “Tex” Sells-out to WhineBrenner and the yanks…or the latin kings of Shea…

By keylargo

June 17, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

Tonights game with the Rangers will feature Chipper Jones trying to keep his average over the magic .400 mark while Kelly Johnson hopes to get on base in front of him. Jeff Francoeur had a couple of hits last night and Brandon Jones continues to surprise while hitting .467.

JoJo Reyes and Jorge Campillo had solid starts and will pitch later in the series. Jeff Bennett finished the ninth for Jair Jurjens, who pitched masterfully against the Rockies.

Down on the farm Chuck James has had tremendous numbers the last two times out and Josh Anderson remains upbeat despite his demotion.

Jeff Ridgeway remains on the bubble if Mike Gonzales is activated.

SportsSouth anchors Jerome Jerenovich and Bryan Jordon will have an interview with John Smoltz to chart his progress towards his rehab.

By James

June 17, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

Good work on the trade roundup. I appreciate that the Braves thought enough of those players. By trading them it will give them an opportunity to play in the major leagues in 3-5 years rather than play their entire career in the minors because everyone of them would be blocked in the Braves system.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 17, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

Then when Prado comes back, I would say release Gotay, I like Infante and Prado better. Matt could play 1B, that being said, Norton could be let go. And I wouldnt be surprised if Infante could play 1B, he is very athletic and looks pretty comfortable in every position I have watched him play (3B, 2B, CF, LF I think).

By McFann©

June 17, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

Where he’s struggled the most is throwing — 22 of 24 baserunners have stolen bases on him, including 21 straight.

21 straight? Dang…That’s kinda sad…

John Grove (aka, Geovany Soto) is DH’ing tonight. Keeping a close eye on the Cubby Catcher.

YOU DECIDE 2008!!

VOTE FOR MCCANN!!

By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)

June 17, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this

Hey Carroll

There is a great place to eat out in right field. I forget the name of it but the last time I was in Dallas we went to Arlington and had some of the best wings and burgers right there at the ballpark.

What is the name of the place??

noie

So you were a catcher too?? I played every postition except shortstop and second but for the most part played catcher and 1st and 3rd were next.

What do you think is worse?? Taking a foul-tip shot where there are no pads or catching a pitcher who thinks he knows better what to throw in a certain situation.

I’ll take the foul-tip all day, at least it’s over with quick. Head-case pitchers are a marathon of headaches. LOLOL

By Carroll Rogers

June 17, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

Don C, interesting thought.

justin, that’s a good question about b jones and i tried to get bobby to bite on it today but he didn’t really go into it much. safe to say brandon has figured something out and it’s going to benefit the braves either way if he keeps it up.

Tex ain’t resigning here. Somebody in the media horde before the game asked him what some of his favorite memories of playing here, and he actually said being around town and people talking about the cowboys. hey, i don’t think he meant anything derogattory when he said it, but it’s telling how quickly that popped into his mind.

saw the stadium with my own eyes. it’s humongous but looks like enough like the old place that i knew exactly what it was… wow.

Chipper is DHing tonight. Bobby wants to give him a day of rest in the field. Tex is going to get the rest on Thursday and DH for the day game.

Gonzo is here. Will be activated tomorrow.

Bobby said plans with Soriano are just rest for the rest of the time on the DL and see where they are.

Mike Hampton pitched two innings of a simulated game today in Orlando. A couple days off and one more good one and he’ll be ready for a rehab assignment.

There, I’ve gone and spoiled like my whole notebook.

By ColoradoBravesFan

June 17, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

DonC…

I don’t thinks its fair to state the we may look back and wish this never happened. Texas got no sure fire Ace, or young power bat to replace tex. Texas got all maybes…

Harrison may be a mid rotation innings eater or he may be the next Horacio Ramirez. Salty might become an elite catcher, but McCann is a three time all star and a year younger(?). Andrus is young, but I don’t ever remember him being projected as an elite SS. I remember him being all glove, speed and maybe he’ll hit for avg. As Others stated, we have better shortstops in our system now, much less 2-3 years from now.

Can’t say much about N.Feliz he looks as though he might be a real good arm, just needs to get it together.

Hopefully with the three picks (2 from Tex and 1 from Mahay) we can replace one or two of the prospects we gave up for them…

GO BRAVES…

By tr

June 17, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone,

I kind of like your idea, but poor KJ being asked to switch positions again? First, he was a shortstop, then an outfielder, then a 2B, and now you want him to pick up 1B? I hope we just pony-up the bucks and keep TEX!

By James

June 17, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this

Where are all the Mets bloggers who flooded this place at one time and taunted Braves fans.

By McFann©

June 17, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

ColoradoBravesFan—

McCann is actually a year older than Salty. He will be a 3-time All-Star, though! (But it’d be nice if he was a 2-time starter, 1-time reserve.)

But, McCann is a year younger than Geovany Grove.

By Nick

June 17, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

I think the only person in that trade we’ll have sleepless nights over is Neftali Feliz.

By Steve McP

June 17, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this

What we have lost on the Texiera trade is the potential to use those prospects to obtain an alternative high profile player (pitcher?) or players, but we are a long way from putting a fork in this season and bringing the tractor pulls to the Ted - a couple of wins against the Rangers and we are back in the mix.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 17, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this

tr,

I once thought the same way about another possible position change for Kelly.

Then I remember that Chipper changed positions several times throughout his career. He came up as a SS, began his big-league career in LF, then moved to third, back to SS when Terry Pendleton came back, back to left to accommodate Castilla, etc.

Chipper was able to make the adjustments (and I think he actually enjoyed the challenge until his hammies rebelled).

I also think of Mark DeRosa, who’s playing all over the place for the Cubs, again to keep his bat in the lineup.

DeRo’s sort a reverse utility player. An OK defender who produces runs wherever he plays.

I don’t envision that role for Kelly. But he’s a fine athlete who’s never going to win a Gold Glove at 2B but could be plenty productive at 1B.

By ncscoots

June 17, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this

DonC, KJ is an above-average offensive 2B, but would be a below-average offensive 1B. Moving him there and inserting a less-skilled player at 2B simply lowers your offensive capability at TWO spots. That seem like a smart move?

Ask any of Jeff Kent’s teams if they worried about how many Gold Gloves he won.

By DonCoburleone

June 17, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

And as far as the Braves quest to obtain a “young, controllable major league pitcher” here are guys who I think top that list and the chance that Wren goes after them:

Daniel Cabrera (Bal): We all know the story with this guy, awesome stuff that he can’t totally control. Plus he’s going into his second Arbitration year, so he barely qualifies as “young and controllable”. - 20%

Ian Snell (Pit): 2008 is his last season before he hits Arbitration, so we’d have him under control until after the 2011 season. Had a “breakout” year last year but hasn’t followed it up yet this season. I think he is a great buy low candidate right now, he should be near the top of our list. - 50%

Jonathan Sanchez (SF): Another guy who should be near the top of the list, he has been very good for SF this year and this is only his 1st full major league season. Trying to get Lincecum or Cain would be almost impossible but I think Sanchez could be had for the right price (which would be a package including at least Schafer, Lillibridge, and a grade B-ish pitching prospect).- 5%

Aaron Laffey (Cle): I like this kid alot and he is also a rookie. He’s held his own this year in the bigs and with Cleveland’s wealth of pitching prospects he could be made available. Only problem is I have no idea where we could trade with them. More than likely they will be looking for offense at the deadline, Third Base or OF offense to be exact. Chipper ain’t goin nowhere, Diaz and Kotsay are hurt (and aren’t a big enough upgrade offensively for Cleveland anyway) and Francoeur is our Golden Boy whose trade value is in the gutter right now. - 6%

Ian Kennedy (NYY): I know I know, he is not a major league pitcher yet, and he’s just another overhyped Yankee prospect; but is he really? Baseball America had him as a top 100 prospect before the season started, and BA doesn’t overhype anything in NY. I wouldn’t overpay for him, but if the Yankees get desperate for a setup man we might be able to land him straight up for Mike Gonzalez (assuming he comes back and pitches well and the Braves are either out of the race or Soriano comes back healthy and effective). - 5%

Rich Hill (CHC): Appears he may have completely lost it this year (demoted to AAA a few weeks back and has walked 24 in 25 innings pitched) but still in 2007 he was borderline awesome (8.3K/9IP, 3:1 strikeout-walk ratio, 3.92ERA, 1.19WHIP). I think like Ian Snell he is a good buy-low candidate right now, but like Aaron Laffey I have no idea what the Braves could give up to get him. The only thing the Cubs want in a trade this season is an impact starting pitcher, and I don’t see the Braves trading them Tim Hudson (although we could probably get Hill plus Gallagher plus a position prospect) - 15%

By justin

June 17, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

I don’t see Harrison being just a mid rotation kinda guy. If you look at that deal, Feliz and Harrison, and you put them both in Atlanta in two years with Morton, Jurrjens, Reyes, and Hudson, that’s one hell of a starting 5 and a good 6th man right there.

Salty is gonna be a good player, he’ll be a .300-310 kinda guy and knock out 30 homers and drive in 100, but he won’t do it catching. Well maybe he will, but he’ll get to DH a lot if he does.

Andrus was the one that bothered me, yet he really hasn’t seemed to realize his “potential”(which we all know is a French word for not worth a damn). He was supposed to be at best the next Jeter with more pop, and at worse a slick fielding shortstop who could steal some bases and knock out some hits. So far he has been far from the later.

Maybe this trade will turn out to be a nothing trade or maybe 5 years down the road we’ll wonder what if. Of course if we win a World Series this year with Tex nobody will be saying that.

By Shamus Thacker

June 17, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

I don’t like Tex’s attitude and wish we’d never made the trade. The players we traded were expendable, but I believe we made the wrong deal. I wouldn’t resign the moron for 20-DOLLARS a DECADE!

By P-Town Brave

June 17, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

TR

The major problem w/ Kelly is that he’s basically a tweener…he’s not a great hitter, but not a bad one either if they could teach him the strike zone a bit better and how to hit for contact…

Also, his major problem…he really has no defensive position…sometimes he even makes Jeff Kent look Gold Glove worthy w/ his 2nd base play…

All in all, after watching Prado play (whom everyone has seemed to have forgotten, I believe he’s more of an asset to our club, and if it were up to me, the right deal comes along, I would send KJ somewhere, maybe in an Oakland deal to get Harden…? I mean they do need a 2b since Ellis will be leaving…

I look at Prado and mainly I think he has the skill set to become a Placido Polanco type player…and everyone realizes that is something pretty special these days.

By Beach Dawg

June 17, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

I love the Braves but let’s not get too excited about this new crop of Rooks — remember the Baby Braves of a couple of years ago? Still haven’t been to the play offs and sadly I don’t believe they can do it this year either

By Shamus Thacker

June 17, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

Quote by: James Where are all the Mets bloggers who flooded this place at one time and taunted Braves fans.

James, I think the dumbazzes all fell out of Shea…

By SoDakBrave

June 17, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this

just hit 300 votes for Heap and Chip!

By DonCoburleone

June 17, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

And yes BravesFanInRockies, I realize most of the players we traded away to get Tex were somehow blocked at the ML level, but as someone else already pointed out, if we still had them they could be used to trade for something long-term rather than a year and a half rental.

Lets face it, anything short of a World Series this year (or one of the two draft picks we get for Tex turning into the next Chipper Jones) this trade will be a bad one for the Braves. But thats just my opinion…

By Epinephrine

June 17, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

The only person in that trade that really worries me is Feliz. That’s it.

By justin

June 17, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this

Kelly’s problem has nothing to do with understanding the strike zone, in fact it’s quit the opposite. TP wanted Kelly to be MORE aggressive this season because last year there were times Kelly knew the Zone better than the Umps and he got a lot of called third strikes.

Also, his defensive play isn’t that bad at all. He has good range and gets to a lot of balls and his strong arm helps on some double plays too. Prado is a stud as well, but he’s not gonna hit as good as KJ. If you look at their minor league numbers, since thats all you have to go on with Prado ,Kelly was a better hitter in the minors than Prado was. We’ll see, but I think Kelly is a valuable assist to the team and will win more games for us then he will lose.

Also, in case anybody wants to bring up the dropped fly ball, just remember it wouldn’t have mattered if Esco and Frenchy had knocked in some runs with the bases loaded.

By Mark Teixeira

June 17, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

Baseball, this is my job; this is a business. I work hard at it. If I get paid well, great. If I don’t, I’m going to kill myself.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 17, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

DonC,

Those are interesting suggestions. I truly wonder, though, if the Braves would go for a Cabrera/Snell type during the season — a gamble who may never be a reliable starter for a good team — let alone write off the 2008 season swapping Gonzalez for Kennedy with the closer situation so shaky.

As for the suggested trade of Schafer, Lil’ Bridge and another prospect for Sanchez? Could work, but if the former Braves bust out, some other denizens will be comparing that deal to the one that landed Tex (and saying the deal for Tex was awesome by comparison)!

By KC

June 17, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone: I’m sorry, I must have missed something. Why are we talking about young starters the Braves could trade for??

Looks to me like we’re in pretty good shape in the department.

Not to say we wouldn’t want to add MORE young pitching depth if that opportunity presents itself… but is there anything in the baseball world harder to come by?

We made out like a bandit with Jurrjens. That was an extremely rare trade.

By SoDakBrave

June 17, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this

Wow Moyer is not lookin good. Just gave up a homer to COCO CRISP? Hopefully we can make up some ground over these next few games.

By cricket

June 17, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

Does anyone know why this game is not on cable MLB Extra Innings? It is available on Dish Extran Innings package.

By DonCoburleone

June 17, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

Come on KC, you know as well as I do that of our young pitchers Reyes and Morton have not had nearly enough starts at the big league level to prove anything (They could be the second-coming of Horacio Ramirez and Chuck James for all we know). I like Jurrjens alot too, but a young, proven major league pitcher is what Frank Wren is targeting, he said it himself.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 17, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

The problem I have in second-guessing the trade for Tex now is I remember last year.

The Braves’ front office believed that team could contend, but not with Scott Thorman at first. There were no alternatives for him in the system. And the Braves had several prospects who were quite tradeable and could be dealt without leaving that team too thin at the major league level.

Now of course, the 2007 team finished third. But Schuerholz pulled the trigger. I can’t fault him for it, especially because 2008 is far from over and we have no idea what will happen to the season, to Tex, to the other players — or who the Braves might get if Tex is dealt or if they get a draft pick or two should he sign elsewhere.

It’s way too early to even speculate what the verdict on this deal would be.

By McFann©

June 17, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

WAYTAGO, SoDakBrave!!

Nice work!!

Geovany Grove is 0-1!!

YOU DECIDE 2008!!

VOTE FOR MCCANN!!

By Steve McP

June 17, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this

I see Chipper is DH today with Infante at 3rd - seems a good line up - Escobar lead off, Blanco at 9, so some pace when we turn over.

By keylargo

June 17, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

Cricket

If you mean the Directv MLB Extra Inning package it is on 737 and 745 (Braves and Rangers feed).

It is also on 617 which will be the Atl. feed.

By James Earl Jones

June 17, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

Baseball, this is my job; this is a business. I work hard at it. If I play well, great. If I don’t, I’m not going to kill myself.”

Tex, people will pay you, Tex. They’ll pay you to come to New York for reasons they can’t even fathom. They’ll write you the check not knowing for sure why they’re doing it.

The checks will arrive at your bank as innocent as children, longing for the past. Of course, I won’t mind if you earn compound interest, you’ll say.

It’s only $23 million per season. They’ll pass over the money without even thinking about it: for it is money they have and common sense they lack.

And they’ll walk out to the private boxes; sit in shirtsleeves and talk on their cell phones on a perfect afternoon. They’ll find they have $145 reserved seats somewhere along one of the baselines, where they sat when they were children for $3 and cheered their heroes.

And they’ll watch the game and it’ll be as if they dipped themselves in tragic waters. The frustration will be so thick they’ll have to brush it away from their faces.

People will pay you Tex. The one constant through all the years, Tex, has been money. America has rolled by like an army of steamrollers. It has been erased like a blackboard, rebuilt and erased again. But money has marked the time.

This bank, this dollar bill: it’s a part of our past, Tex. It reminds of us of all that once was greedy and will be again.

Oh… people will pay you Tex. People will most definitely pay you.

By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)

June 17, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this

YO Beach Dawg

The Braves won their last division title with the Baby Braves. They lost in the first round of the playoffs.

Remember??

BTW — Go DAWGS !!!

By P-Town Brave

June 17, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

Glad to see Bobby is gonna wait til Kelly drops to about .260 before he puts him back where he should be in the 7-hole

By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)

June 17, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

All Right Now………

Let’s GO Braves !!!!!!!!

By Carroll Rogers

June 17, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

capt, i see a sign for “All American Grille” in right field. Is that it?

St tuned for react to TEx…..coming right up!

By Stankoeur

June 17, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

Stenchy should have climbed into the second deck to catch that Hamilton homer.

By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)

June 17, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this

Braves announcers say that the Met’s front office = Minaya = was cowardly and “dastardly”!!

Willie needed to call Dudley Do-Right !!

By Scott from Fairburn

June 17, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

That a boy , Frenchy … terrible

By Carroll Rogers

June 17, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

so it’s a little stale in the press box with the window closed (that’s how they do it here in the summer heat - and i won’t complain) but from my vantage point it was mostly boos from the rangers fans but some cheers mixed in too. wasn’t overwhelming nasty booing, in my expert booing opinion. course padilla then almost hit him with the first pitch. hey, welcome back.

By geauxbraves2000

June 17, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

4 pitches, 4 swings, strike out. Can anyone guess who that was?

Geaux Braves!!

By Robin

June 17, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this

Not a great top 2nd:

Tex swinging for the downs and failing miserably. McCann is even slower than I thought. Frenchie looked terrible at that AB.

I know …..it’s early. :)

By Choppinmama

June 17, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

Whoa - the Teixeira tower got buzzed! Or is that Ranger-speak for “Hello, Tex, we’ve really missed ya’!

I was reading Mark Derosa’s blog (called The Pulse) earlier and ran across this:

DEROSA: First off, I want to reiterate that the reason to call this “The Pulse” is because my teammates gave me that nickname when my heart almost stopped on the field at Fitch Park. Ryan Theriot decided to give me mouth to mouth and that’s why I came to — I decided I wasn’t near death.

By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)

June 17, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this

Carroll

Yes, I just saw the sign on TV. That’s it. It’s open even when there isn’t a game, if you get a chance to grab something to eat there I highly recommend it. They have some really great burgers there.

By Choppinmama

June 17, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

Carroll: I’ll bet there’s a healthy representation of Chipper’s friends and family at this series, right?

Regarding the Minaya press conference earlier today: he took at least 30 minutes to let everyone knows that “I was the only one responsible for hiring Willie Randolph and I am the only one responsible for firing Willie Randolph.”

30 minutes and at least 2,000 “you knows?” thrown in for effect.

Yeah, where are all of our Mets “friends” to explain to us how good this is for their team? C’mon guys, justify this one.

By Brave in Bama

June 17, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

This is my first post though I read this blog daily. But I had to say that was the funniest post I have read here James Earl Jones at 7:57 pm. Loved it.

By BravesDave

June 17, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

So is every call going to go against the Braves this season or what?

Did anyone else notice that even after Kinsler knocked down Escobar’s throw, Young was still out at first on the throw that bounced 4 times? Yet, he was called safe.

Go figure.

By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)

June 17, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this

Good Call by the umpires.

I wish we had got the double play but that was just the motion of the hand from the slide.

Still almost got him at first.

By Coach Smith

June 17, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

This is not looking good…

Huddy doesn’t have “IT”

and the Braves are making quick outs at the plate…

a couple losses in TEXAS and all the positives that have been built will be thrown out the window

By Coach Smith

June 17, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

BravesDave

You are RIGHT..Young was OUT at first anyway

4-0…game over

By geauxbraves2000

June 17, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

It looks like Mr Hyde has showed up tonight.

Geaux Braves!!

By cabravesfan

June 17, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

BravesDave yeah I thought he was out also

By McFann©

June 17, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

Did anyone else notice that even after Kinsler knocked down Escobar’s throw, Young was still out at first on the throw that bounced 4 times? BraveDave

Yes.

By Coach Smith

June 17, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

Again…down 5-0 and Escobar gets an out on ONE FREAKIN PITCH to start the inning

By Coach Smith

June 17, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

It looks like They are just PHONING THIS ONE IN

By Carroll Rogers

June 17, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

choppin, yes chipper’s mom and pop are here. made the nine-hour drive from the double dime.

By TURTSNAP

June 17, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Well, atleast Tim is letting us know early that we won’t get a sixth straight quality start tonight.

By McFann©

June 17, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Boy…The Braves sure don’t know how to celebrate a B-Day for this family…

Sooo……Are these guys ever gonna get on base, or what?

By Braveheart

June 17, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

If this keeps up, the Braves will be 23-13 when Smoltz, Campillo, Jurrjens, Morton and JoJo start and 10-18 when Hudson and Glavine start and 12-24 when Hudson, Glavine, James, and Bennett start. Go figure.

By geauxbraves2000

June 17, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

It took longer for my comments to post than the offense took last half inning.

By TURTSNAP

June 17, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

Its another one of those nights where the Braves do a lot of questioning of the umpires and not enough execution of their own

By McFann©

June 17, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

HA! That guy’s dumb stolen base didn’t matter!

By kirknga

June 17, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

Unless any of the traded players become All Stars, win Cy Young’s and MVP’s, then the Braves didn’t misjudge what they traded.

With much of the current team having come up from the farm system, how much playing time was going to be available to them this season, or the next several?

Prospects are for supplying the major league club with the talent it needs either directly or indirectly through trades.

That’s why I say if we have the chance to go get CC Sabbathia from Cleveland then we should certainly pull the trigger on a similar trade.

By StingerSplash

June 17, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

So far, so ugly. Can someone at least step into a pitch so we can get a baserunner? I mean, to get perfecto-ed by Randy Johnson is one thing, but Vicente Padilla? It’s bad enough Huddy’s having his worst start in weeks. But this … ugghh.

By McFann©

June 17, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

DOUBLE!!!

That was 2B number 22, hit to #22 of the Rangers…

By TURTSNAP

June 17, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

Gotta love the horn blowing as the ball comes toward the plate (and the Braves watch it go by)

By Section 412

June 17, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

Ugly so far. The Braves look like they have played 3 games in 3 states in 48 hours or something.

That said, at some point you really have to swing the bat and stop complaining. Those are strikes and they are consistent from the start of the game.

Oh, well. 2 out of 3 will be a success in Texas.

By Bill

June 17, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

When are the Braves management going to wise up??? It’s time to find a new home for Tex and Frenchie. I didn’t like the trade last year and still don’t like it. Tex is not worth the money. The Braves will be lucky to win half their games.

By geauxbraves2000

June 17, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

There you go McFann - WTG McCann!!

And then Mr Clutch wastes another opportunity by once again K’ing on 4 pitches. Oh well.

Geaux Braves.

By SandyB

June 17, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

Hi, Carroll! I am in Orlando this week with my family, and I was wondering if you had any more specific information about Hampton’s starts at Disney? I looked up the GCL Braves and they play their first game of the season Thursday @ Disney. Friday is at Tiger’s field.

No braves games on TV anywhere here. Thanks for the online updates. (BTW, I was staying at a hotel in Atlanta the other day….5 minutes from Turner Field and couldn’t get the Braves on TV…talk about frustration!!!!!)

By fastasballs

June 17, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

Another good AB from Francis. So the first time up he swings at every pitch he sees & the second time takes every pitch he sees. Different formula, same result.

Arguing balls & strikes when you are 5 runs down is going to do nothing but get a wider stike zone called on you the rest of the game.

By StingerSplash

June 17, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

So much for that string of great starts by Braves pitchers.

By McFann©

June 17, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

At least they’re not in Cincy. Hairston might have threatened McCann for breaking up the no-hitter…

That was a wild pitch by Hudson, BTW.

By Choppinmama

June 17, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this

gb2000 - pitiful, ain’t it?

McFann - I’ve been voting for our guy every chance I cann. Sounds like you’re going to a game? Are you a GA girl, or are you out there in TX land? I’m so happy you’re gonna see our guys in person. Have fun.

I’ll be looking hard for Lew this weekend.

By northbeach Scott

June 17, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this

Huddy just did not have it, tonight. I wonder if he is still feeling a bit off from getting so dehydrated in Chicago.

Glad to see Ridgway pitch a bit before he heads back to Richmond. What a sh*t sandwich he got in Chicago. Thanks to his buddy “Bombs Away” Acosta.

Disappointed to see a pitcher as mediocre as Padilla shut the Braves down. They just seem unable to do anything about a pitcher having a good night. Lack of fundamental baseball always bites them.

Frenchy=Andruw=dim bulb

By SoWeGa Fanatic

June 17, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

Hold on, Boys. The fat lady ain’t tuning up yet.

By McFann©

June 17, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

Choppinmama—

Thanks! We’re going to the game on June 25 (McCann bobble head DGANG). Yeah, we live here in GA.

I’ll get to see them in person, all right, but I don’t think McCann will be playing—Campillo’s most likely gonna start. : (

But I’ll try to have fun, anyway. ; )……As long as they win!

(I’ll be looking for Lew, too.)

By ncscoots

June 17, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

Well, I guess three games divided by two plane trips plus one previously-dehydrated pitcher equals an L, in MLB math, LOL.

Always tomorrow, though, and still a chance to be near .500 returning home.

By kirknga

June 17, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Frenchy=Andrew.

Andrew won Gold Gloves, Silver Sluggers, and was a 30/100 player up until his final two seasons(he still won Glove Gloves).

For many seasons many people argued that Andrew was the best at his position, and a few said he was the best ever.

Nobody has ever said that about Frenchy. I wish we could get out of Frenchy what Andrew gave us for his first 8 seasons.

Lets not rewrite history so that Andrew is not given his due.

By SoWeGa Fanatic

June 17, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

Bases drunk for Tex back in Tex. This could be great!

By geauxbraves2000

June 17, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

Okay McCann, need a clutch hit. JF is on deck, and sure would like to see the Braves score again before he stands in the box.

Geaux Braves!!

By Coach Smith

June 17, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

That was probably the last best chance at a comeback…i hope I’m wrong but…

By geauxbraves2000

June 17, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

Okay, I’m done. Not a good night for Huddy. If the Braves don’t come back in this game, they still have a chance to win the next two and go home with a .500 road trip.

Nite all,

Geaux Braves!!

By KC

June 17, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

DonC: I don’t doubt you, but I missed that statement. What exactly did Wren say (and where)?

By McFann©

June 17, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

.286…But at least he didn’t strikeout…

Holy crud! Another run for the dumb team…

By fastasballs

June 17, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

Should have had 3 runs minimum that inning. KJ has got to do something besides pop up.

Had McCann pulled that ball a bit it’s a 1 run game. I was hoping he got something to hit so we didn’t have to watch Francis have another weak AB with the bases loaded.

By uga-brave

June 17, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

kirknga,

here,here.

By Mike in LA

June 17, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

Is anyone else as tired of seeing Kelly Johnson pop out or strikeout with runners and scoring position with no one out? He has a great swing and eye, thats unexcusable. Thats a lack of effort. He cost them a run when they had Padilla on the ropes. He’s resembling Adam Laroche more and more every day

By Mike in LA

June 17, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

Is anyone else as tired of seeing Kelly Johnson pop out or strikeout with runners and scoring position with no one out? He has a great swing and eye, thats unexcusable. Thats a lack of effort. He cost them a run when they had Padilla on the ropes. He’s resembling Adam Laroche more and more every day

By Coach Smith

June 17, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

Surprise surprise…the Braves BLOW a chance to come back and make it a GAME…then..the other team steps right up and puts the DAGGER in…

This team cannot sustain any momentem whatsoever

By kirknga

June 17, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this

I think we all forgot that the Rangers lead the majors in runs scored. They’ve got power, speed, and make contact.

The Braves are in a stretch where they have played the 3 top scoring teams in the league(Philies, Cubs, Rangers).

I hope the results against the Rangers are different than with the other two clubs.

By Coach Smith

June 17, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Frenchy can’t be mentioned in the same breath with ANDRUW…

Andruw is a hall-of-famer with nearly 400 HRs and 10 GGs by age 30..

Francouer would count himself lucky to ever be in that catagorey

By keylargo

June 17, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

They keep showing Nolan Ryan in the stadium tonight. I most remember him for hitting Robin Ventura, who was a pretty good player. He charged the mound and I would bet all I have that was the last time anyone every came out to fight with Nolan Ryan. He immediately got Ventura in a headlock and just beat the he!! out of his head. I mean this was a no contest TKO.

By Choppinmama

June 17, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

McFann: I hope his bobblehead looks remotely like him. I’ve seen the other ones from this season! We must not have sent photos over to our Republic of China’s manufacturer, so all we get are random Caucasian features.

Mark Teixeira: you coulda been a HERO!

By Coach Smith

June 17, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this

BYRD is single-handedly killing any hopes of a comeback..two great running catches to save runs and a HR

By Choppinmama

June 17, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

McFann - one last thought, take your binoculars so you can keep track of Brian in the dugout!

By uga-brave

June 17, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

it is not the .250 average that should bother you about francouer.

it is the lack of power and the .300 .oba.

TP did a a interview on CSS

By new boss same as old boss

June 17, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

Speaking of young pitchers, anyone keeping tabs on Kyle Davies this season???

By justdoit

June 17, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this

reyes gets a leadoff hit in the mets game and fells the back of his leg like he hurt it so jerry manual came out and pulled him from the game and reyes was refusing to come out and jerry made him come out and reyes got p** and threw his helmet - good start for them muts and the new management

By uga-brave

June 17, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

to finish that thought, when asked about his thoughts on the new braves phenom, pendleton replied “he should be a good one but he has to lose the thought that he can climb mt. everest with a needle and a spool of thread.”

the dude better start hitting homeruns because they can find any stiff to give them the production he is giving them now.

food for thought, they traded rochy away when he was arbitration eligible.

rochy hit .285 32hr 90rbi, in just 490 at bats.

By McFann©

June 17, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

Choppinmama—

It’s an OK likeness. Could be a lot better, that’s for sure. They shoulda sent some photos…or made them here in the USA…

Oh yeah! I’m bringing the binos! We’ll be in right-center, so I should have a good view of the dugout!

Welp, I guess that’s it for me tonight. Tough loss, for sure—I mean, uh…well they haven’t lost yet, but…

Night, all!!

(The Cubby Catcher was 0-4 tonight.)

By Bad news Braves

June 17, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

How much longer are the Braves going to put up with Frenchy and Tex? Neither are hitting their weight. I think Tex is daydreaming about the big bucks he is going to get next year. Frenchy must have Bride’s disease. He’s not got his mind on the game. The home run hit Sunday was easily in his reach, yet he loafed over and watched it bounce into the stands. A little hustle, if you please.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 17, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

Even if we lose, looks like offense is not weak anymore on the road. Problem was SP, which is not what we are used to see anymore. Team is kind of turning it around. Bad outing by Tim tonight. Tough luck for him also…….he pitches gems, braves dont score, he pitches poorly, braves score 5, go figure…….

By Iron Labrum

June 17, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

McFann….your boy has beautiful McCannix.

By fastasballs

June 17, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

McCann crushed that ball on a 0-2 pitch no less. It was a really fat pitch, but you still have to hit it in the right spot. If only Francis could do that. Oh well at least he’s out of the way for the 9th.

By Coach Smith

June 17, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

TYPICAL…

pizz away every chance to pick up single runs here and there…then fall just short at the end…it would’ve been better to have been blown out

close losses hurt more

By Efrim

June 17, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

Jeff Francoeur and Mark Teixeira owe this team big second halfs. I expect it from Tex, but I am really worried about Jeff. I mean, he has a .300 OBP with very little power. Should we consider acquiring an everyday left fielder and platooning Brandon Jones with Jeff Francoeur? Makes you think.

By fastasballs

June 17, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

Brandon Jones’ play since he has come up has been quite a surprise. He got off to a bad start in Richmond this year.

With Francis playing so poorly right now the outfield needs the production Jones is giving them.

Either Tex or Francis is going to have to get hot or this team is going no where fast. If McCann wasn’t having such a big year their failures would be magnified even more. KJ having a higher SLG percentage than the next 20 million dollar man is unacceptable.

Tex has driven in a decent amount of runs, but has anyone else noticed a ton of them come on fielder’s choice or sac flys. Maybe it’s just me. Basically every other time he has stepped to the plate this season there has been a runner or runners on.

I keep waiting on this man-child of a hitter to emerge, but it’s not to be as of yet.

By MANOLO

June 17, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this

Our team fails in key areas that better teams don’t. Like other’s have said, Kelly’s at bat with 2 on needs to be at least an effective out, like a ground out to the right side. Usually that’s the easiest thing to do for a lefty, but for us its so hard to execute. GIVE THE PHILLIES THAT TYPE OF OPPORTUNITY, 1ST AND SECOND WITH NO ONE OUT AND 2,3 AND 4 COMING, AND SEE WHAT HAPPENS. No mather what anyone tells me, the inteligent aspect that MC cann, escobar, and CHIPPER HAVE, KELLY and Jeff lack, and that’s why both of them should bat low in the order. WATCH WHAT A GUY LIKE KOTSAY WILL HAVE DONE THERE… I still like Prado over Kelly in the awareness of the game, although KELLY is obviously a bigger promise.

By monty

June 17, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

As much as I hate to say it, this is just a .500 team right. I keep thinking this team is better than this, but they keep proving me wrong.They just can’t seem to put it all together, If they get the pitching they don’t hit, if they hit they don’t pitch well. They always seem to get a couple of 2 out hits but can’t get the key hit when needed. They play parts of games seemingly uninspired then they wake up but it’s too late because they are too far down. Just very aveage.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 17, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this

No fastasballs its not just you… he is not driving in with hits, doubles nor HRs.

At least we are not losing any ground tonight.

We are still 3-2 on our last 5 road games and with pretty good chances of making it 5-2 and a 5-5 road trip.

Not too bad considering our recent memories and not bad after the sweep in chicago.

Keep the faith…… New face around for tomorrows game. Gonzo will be around, some leadership.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 17, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

Good post Manolo

Efrim dont say that too loud, benching JF is not a thing well accepted around the blog. I like your proposition, platooning Jeff, but why go find help anywhere when you have anderson, BJ and Blanco? And you have norton and Infante…… thats enough. Of course, if we can get a premium player without giving up or farm, it could be good. Even if its a 1 year rental, since Anderson and Blanco could be even better next year (more experienced). And we also have Diaz coming to the rescue, maybe he has figure out some things that we wrong, since he has had tons of time to watch video and stuff.

By Norton is hitting .225

June 17, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

NORTON IS HITTING .225!

What’s up with that?

By uga-brave

June 17, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

diaz coming to the rescue? dont quite get that one.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 17, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this

Are you suggesting Norton should be released?

By Carroll Rogers

June 17, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

Braves sent out Phil Stockman to make room for Gonzalez on the roster…

By Michael Procton

June 17, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

The Braves may be disappointing lately, but I was present this evening to see Jason Heyward crush a homer about 420 feet to right-center in his first AB tonight in the Sally League All-Star game. Against a good pitcher, too (0.86 ERA in 42 IP outside of his final first-half appearance.) He also legged out an IF single (though he was probably out) in his three total ABs. I was disappointed not to see him in the HR derby, although Freddie Freeman (Rome 1B) participated and put up decent numbers as well as a 1-1 performance with an RBI as a sub in the real game. I know these kinds of showcases don’t matter much, but it’s good to see our kids performing well on a South division team that got stomped (those 2 RBIs were half of the team’s total output for the game.)

By Logan23

June 18, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this

Sally League All-Star Game

Jason Heyward: two for three with a homer.

Frederick Freeman one for one.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 18, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this

Come on Uga, give the guy a break, he might return to his old self…. Besides, he is not a key piece on the team as we speak.

By Carroll Rogers

June 18, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this

Michael Procton - refreshing update on Heyward….Thanks.

Iron Labrum, LOVED McCannix. fabulous.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 18, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this

Today we faced padilla, he is having a very good year. Not the case for the next 2 pitchers. A rookie, this will be his 2nd start, and then a guy with thats having a bad season, over 4.50 ERA and losing record. That should help.

JoJo and Morton could repeat their performances and we are back in business.

By Lemming

June 18, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this

Anybody else see Cox’s quote about Hudson’s off-key performance? “Huddy was fine, a little bouncer up the middle, a hit and run and all of a sudden they have five runs.”

Hard to believe there are people who believe anything the old coot has to say after a game.

By CRs Report Card

June 18, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this

1. Tim Hudson was waiting for the team in Dallas last night and should be rested, hopefully well-hydrated, and ready to go.

Nope. Uh uh.

1. The Braves also aim to keep some of those clutch hits coming.

Nope. Uh uh.

1. But something tells me he’ll [i.e. Tex] find a way to lock in this series.

Nope. Not yet.

1. • …the Class A Clinton LumberKings of the Midwest League. (Love the nickname).*

The LumberKings is a good nickname but it’s not SofaKing great. If you’ve seen Saturday Night Live.

1. Guess God watches quite a bit of baseball, eh?

Nope. SHE’S a soccer fan.

By uga-brave

June 18, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this

d-day.

this team needs a big power bat, of course that’s assuming tex snaps out of his funk.

gotta get tex going to have any chance to compete. i have said all season that i think he has a bad back.

if we had 15 more homeruns from francoeur and tex i think our record would be much different in all those one run games. i think everyone assumed tex would hit 38 or more dingers this year.

By Reid in EAV

June 18, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this

Of course they sent Stockman down. His arm was rusting anyway. Too bad.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

June 18, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this

Since coming back from his leg injury, Chipper has hit .153 (4 for 26) with four singles. Read between the lines people.

Even if the Braves manage to win the final two games of this ten game road trip, they will finish it 5-5. Which will leave them at 37-37 (.500).

As it stands right now, the Braves have played 396 straight games of .500 baseball (198-198) during the 06-07 and 08 seasons. I’m not sure how much more transparent it can get than that.

By Norton is hitting .225

June 18, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this

Did you hear me? I said:

NORTON IS HITTING .225

two-stinkin’-twenty-five - what kind of average is that?

By Kev

June 18, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

Carroll

Are you Correct on PHIL Stockman sent down to make room for Gonzalez….you have to be joking…please be it…

So we have 4 lefties in the bullpen.Somebody must be coming up, Prado or someone else is going to be activated…that move makes NO SENSE…

Someone give me one good reason as to why Ridgway isn’t the one going down…

By uga-brave

June 18, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this

norton,

.25 worse then francoeur.

By Norton is hitting .225

June 18, 2008 12:45 AM | Link to this

Ignore me all you want, but the fact remains

NORTON IS HITTING .225

Unbelievable.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

June 18, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this

Actually, Greg Norton is hitting .178 and Corky Miller is sporting an average of .111. Did I mention Ruben Gotay and his .200 BA?

By NO MORE BOBBY

June 18, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this

I would love to wake up and hear that Bobby Cox has been fired at 3AM in the morning.

By Michael Procton

June 18, 2008 1:01 AM | Link to this

Hey…he’s known for his hitting. Just ask Bobby.

By Michael Procton

June 18, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this

Kev: We have to pretend like we got something decent for Aybar (wouldn’t a .446 slugging average be nice off the bench or if Chipper goes down?) and a freaking SECOND ROUNDER!

By uga-brave

June 18, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this

so the bobby bashing continues, yeah that makes sense.

lets see smoltz, galvine, and hampton have combined for five wins. moylan and soriano basiclally have not pitched all year.

the offensive production from the outfield is almost the worst in the majors.

yeah go ahead blame bobby for all of that. you are probably right, heck you are right, it is defintely #6’s fault. amazing.

By George N "Boston Brave" Spitz

June 18, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this

Bobby Cox could only get away with his disgraceful treatment Phil Stockman, who allowed 0 runs in seven innings, if it were not for a complacent press, particularly Dave O’Brien and Carroll Rogers. Stockman is the last right-hander in the bullpen who should be sent down. There have been numerous situations where Blaine Boyer, Jeff Bennett and Manny Acosta had blown games through lack of control and hittable pitches that Stockman should at least have been given a chance to save. I consider fairness dictates that Stockman be given his release although as a Braves fan since 1932 I believe he would be missed, particularly if given a fair opportunity.

By Edward

June 18, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this

If its positive that Ridgeway is staying+ 3 other LEFTIES…I’ll have what Bobby’s having please….With this type of no sense/scratcheads moves…This team is going NOWHERE

By TennesseePaul

June 18, 2008 2:13 AM | Link to this

So the Lakers suck. They’re nothing. They’re terrible. But my home town now has a champion among its ranks so that’s cool. But Kobe Bryant… he is nowhere close to Jordan. Not even remotely. Jordan would have won these series. Easily. Kobe… well you can see the results for yourself.

As for the game tonight, I didn’t get to see any of it. Bummed Chipper didn’t get any hits. Bummed the Braves lost. But glad they made a game of it. I see B. Jones is still going nuts. That’s always good. Hudson’s such a bust some times. It sucks. You see him take the mound and he dominates and then he’ll go out there and just completely suck for a game or two. I guess I was just spoiled with the real “big 3” back in the day. But I can say this, of the A’s “big 3” Hudson is certainly the best.

We’ll get ‘em tomorrow. Go Braves!!

By TennesseePaul

June 18, 2008 2:19 AM | Link to this

Even if the Braves manage to win the final two games of this ten game road trip, they will finish it 5-5. Which will leave them at 37-37 (.500)

I’d put the posters name at the end of it but, read between the lines people, this is the only guy drinking kool-aid, which is probably why the moniker changes so frequently.

It’d be a huge, huge, massive, uplifting moment if the Braves can end this road trip 5-5. It’d be the best road trip in forever for this team. Nothing to complain about. I hope they can pull that off.

And lastly, somebody get this guy a cup of coffee.

By TennesseePaul

June 18, 2008 2:27 AM | Link to this

yes chipper’s mom and pop are here. made the nine-hour drive from the double dime.

I went to the double dime once. I was disappointed, so I ask for a refund. They gave me 4 nickels out of spite.

By MT Rebel

June 18, 2008 3:22 AM | Link to this

Just jumped on the net. Mike in LA, how can Kelly’s lack of production be a lack of effort? Did he just decide to not really try on that pitch? That is a stupid comment.

On another note, saw Hampton at Knotsberry Farm in Anaheim last Sat. with his son(I assume). Told my wife and she said go get his autograph and I said “he is owed x millions and hasn’t pitched in years, f that”. Not an autograph guy anyway so would not have done so even if he was a rotation mainstain.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

June 18, 2008 3:30 AM | Link to this

10Paul, your apparent satisfaction with mediocrity stuns me beyond belief. If .500 baseball is your cup of coffee, you might want to go cold turkey because baseball teams who play this way don’t make the playoffs.

Since you so conveniently left out the lattter part of my previous post, I’ll say it again. As it stands right now, the Braves have played 396 straight games of .500 baseball (198-198) during the 06-07 and 08 seasons. I’m not sure how much more transparent it can get than that.

And no, I don’t drink coffee or kool aid but thanks for caring.

By Moby Grape

June 18, 2008 4:43 AM | Link to this

As it stands right now, the Braves have played 396 straight games of .500 baseball (198-198) during the 06-07 and 08 seasons.Coach

So what?Most teams go through much longer stretches of basically .500 (or in many cases less). play. What in the world makes you think that the Braves won’t go through such? Hell of a lot better than the first 25 years of their existence in Atlanta. Grow up, be a man and take the good with the mediocre like most all fans have to instead of whining about playing .500 ball.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

June 18, 2008 4:55 AM | Link to this

Moby Grape, I don’t even know how to respond to that. Your expression of satisfaction with .500 baseball is I-N-C-O-M-P-R-E-H-E-N-I-B-L-E ??????

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

June 18, 2008 5:05 AM | Link to this

Moby Grape, I don’t even know how to respond to that. Your expression of satisfaction with .500 baseball is I-N-C-O-M-P-R-E-H-E-N-S-I-B-L-E ??????

By CharlieAlphaBravo

June 18, 2008 5:47 AM | Link to this

Shoot… I was hoping santa was going to post again…

By Moby Grape

June 18, 2008 6:23 AM | Link to this

Your expression of satisfaction with .500 baseball is I-N-C-O-M-P-R-E-H-E-N-I-B-L-E ??????*Coach8

I didn’t say I was satisfied with it. I said that it is a fact of life for most teams and likely for the Braves too. Why would they be different? Whether I am satisfied or you are dissatisfied really has nothing to do with what is going to happen, any more than whining on this board does.

By santa3247

June 18, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this

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Search whole women who did abortion operation, 99.9999% would say “Don’t believe santa3247”

By Will

June 18, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

The .500 stat for the last 3 years pretty much sums it up. I totally agree that all teams are gonna go through down times, but the problem i have with the .500 baseball is the Braves have too much talent the last few years to be playing .500 ball. And here we are again, people saying oh just take the next two games and its a .500 road trip! Well they have certainly proven they can do worse this year, but down 6.5 in East and 7 in Wild Card playing .500 ball is just not gonna catch anybody. They have to start putting together multiple series wins in a row. Get a 8 out of 10 stretch, maybe better. The same thing happened last year because many of us Braves fans have become so accustomed to being the team being chased and not the chaser. The problem is most times you can hold on to a 6 game lead going 6-4 or 5-5 over 10 game stretches, but you are never gonna come from behind unless you play better then that. I still feel a little relief if Braves lose and then i see the Phils lost too, but in reality at this point in the season it is not a relief it is just another missed opportunity to make up ground.

By Efrim

June 18, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

I think this team needs an arm and a corner outfielder to stay in the race. If the arm we get is a starter, then use Campillo out of the pen.

Brandon Jones needs to platoon with Jeff in right if we get an everyday left fielder.

I never thought Tex was worth 20 million….I’m not really sure what player is, other than Pujols and ARod. But I am now, CERTAIN, that Mark Teixeira isn’t worth that kind of money. The problem is, what poor fool will we get to hit clean up. That dreaded spot that is not producing. Is it the curse of Andruw Jones?

By McFann©

June 18, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

McFann….your boy has beautiful McCannix. Iron Labrum

That was a great line…And true, too!

Wouldn’t ya know it? I turn off the computer, cover up The Bird, turn his light off so he cann go to bed, and then go in to watch the Braves bat. Chipper walks…Teixeira walks…McCann hits a THREE-RUN BOMB! So there was no post from me, but rest assured that I was watching the game…

BTW—.296!

By sportsmandh

June 18, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

James Earl @ 7:57, BRILLIANT!

By sportsmandh

June 18, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

James Earl @ 7:57, BRILLIANT!

By Supes

June 18, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

Efrim

Right on about TEX. So far in 2008 he has shown that he is NOT worth 20 million in a multi year deal he’ll be seeking. I would rather the Braves get something for TEX, and trade him before the deadline if they are out of it by then. Otherwise, you let him walk, get those picks in the 1st round for him, but you traded a boatload of prospects for a 2 year rent-a-player. Sounds like something OMAR would for the Muts. Rape their farm system for overpriced mercs. Oh well, the Muts problem to deal with:smirk:

The comparison with Andruw and FRANCINE is about Jeff’s approach at the plate in 2008. He looks like Andruw Jones of 2007. I think we would all be praising God of Jeff was anything like Andruw Jones (first 8 years as a Brave). I think Jeff would be incredibly lucky to ever be anything close to Andruw Jones years 1-8 with the Braves.

All I’ve seen from Jeff this year is diminished power numbers, lower on base percentage, lower sluggling, less RBI’s in the clutch and with RISP. I’ve also seen him let balls hit right infront of him in RF drop and he not make any, zero attempt to even slide catch them, less alone dive for one.

Look, I don’t know how much of this is physical injury to his ankle, whatever else he may have, and I am willing to give him a free pass if he is physically being restricted. However he has not said anything about that, so until he does…he is going to get the criticism he deserves b/c someone has to be willing to speak out on this. The black hole in the lineup is NOT Tex, it’s FRANCINE.

Big league pitchers salivate at the tought of FRANCINE at the plate with RISP b/c they know he’ll chase, be extra aggressive and get himself out. It’s that simple. You don’t have to throw him a strike to get him out. The book is out JEFF. Time to adjust!!! Stop killing the Braves with your lack of production at the plate!

By Overlord-D-Day

June 18, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this

Efrim I insist, why do wee need an OF? we havve kotsay, blanco, anderson, JF, BJ, Infante and Diaz.

Why do we need an arm? we have the 5 spots covered and hampton and glavine will be here in 3 weeks or less

By 22oz

June 18, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

Sending Stockman down makes sense. Bobby only needs 3 righties-Boyer, Acosta, and Bennett. They can pitch an inning apiece every night.

By KC

June 18, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

Braves sent out Phil Stockman to make room for Gonzalez on the roster…

Gee, what a surprise.

I guess Stockman have to go back down and work on lowering his 0.77 AAA ERA to prove he deserves a shot in the big leagues.

I mean… I know he’s no Buddy Carlyle, but maybe you could give him a chance, Bobby?

By McFann©

June 18, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

Supes—

Amen!

By Cecil34

June 18, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

From a Braves fan’s point of view, a .500 ballclub is far more frustrating to follow than a bombed-out, totally out-of-it team.

It is because you get your hopes up that they are turning the corner, the young pitchers are going to come through, the hitting fires up and then, what do you know, the veteran has a poor performance.

The veteran who was sent to Dallas early to be totally rested up for his start. Sort of blew that one.

You know that the talent is there, but the team just does not consistently perform.

It seems as though there are new reasons why as much as the same old ones.

Stop the madness!

Unless there can be a consistent winning streak produced, it is just going to be two steps forward and one step back and thus, .500.

90 games left, and the ol’ ballclub is going to have to play at a .611 clip from here on just to win 90.

Boy, that is a tall order for this bunch. Talent wise, probably not, but reality wise, yep.

By Lew

June 18, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

Moby Grape-Dude, being rational will get you nowhere here on the MIB blog. I’m not thrilled with us being a mediocre or average team either-I enjoyed winning all those seasons, too-but it IS a fact of life for ALL Major League Franchises.

The fact we’re even close to .500 with the injuries we’ve had is nothing short of amazing. No, this level of play will not get us to the playoffs, much less to the Series, but believe me, it could have been MUCH worse than it has. There is still a chance. At this point, THAT is something to be happy about.

Will-Not too sure what Braves fans having become accustomed to has to do with how the Braves play. Besides, if you read the blog regularly, you’d realize the Fans have NOT become accustomed to the Braves being a middle of the road team. There has been damn little acceptance of that from what I can see-outright anger is closer to it than acceptance.

By Renegator

June 18, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

This team is going to struggle to win games until Chipper starts hitting again. .153 average since the quad injury speaks volumes to how serious an injury it is.

If he can’t play any better than that with the injured quad - we are doomed. Not that we aren’t already. This is a .500 club period. Nothing better. They will end up with 80 or 81 wins this year and finish 3rd in the division again…

By TennesseePaul

June 18, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

So Coach (I’m back on the Kool-aid for 2008), winning the next 2 games would be disappointing to you? The Braves having their first road trip of the season that they didn’t lose is disappointing to you? The Braves not having a losing road trip by winning back to back road series while losing key starters in their rotation and getting the replacement work from young rookies who are kick @ss, is a dissappointment to you? Fans should be upset about all of that…?

By KC

June 18, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

Has Phil Stockman earned a chance?

2008 with Atlanta: 6 games/7.1 innings, 9 strikeouts, 2 hits, 0 walks, 0 runs allowed… 0.00 ERA.

2008 at AAA Richmond: 23.1 innings, 19 strikeouts, 8 hits, 10 walks, 2 earned runs… 0.77 ERA.

2006/2007 minor league totals: 41.1 innings, 50 strikeouts, 21 hits, 18 walks, 4 earned runs… 0.87 ERA.

He’s had trouble staying healthy the past couple years, which appeared to be the reason he wasn’t in Atlanta. But here he is health, and dominating everywhere he goes… and he Bobby would rather pitch Buddy Carlyle than Stockman.

I don’t get it.

By Lew

June 18, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

Efrim-Do you really think Francoeur will be platooned, or is that just your thoughts?

Re: Tex-I had the Rangers feed on XM last night (stupid Peachtree network has not worked out a contract with Extra Innings). It was interesting as their announcers were commenting on how Tex was having “yet another slow start-just like usual”. Apparently, this is exactly what he does EVERY year, just like DOB has told us.

Now this may or may not make Tex worth the likely paycheck he’ll command as a Free Agent. I’ve gone on record saying that much $$$$ would be better spent elsewhere. However, it may well mean that if we can stay close, get another pitcher and get Frenchy’s @$$ into gear, Tex’s second half may be just what we need to get us where we want to be.

Then again, last year’s results may make another appearance. Time will tell, but I really would like Tex to get going in fine form.

By DAP

June 18, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

it is just going to be two steps forward and one step back and thus, .500.

actually i hope we can continue to take two steps foward and one back (if each game is a step) because at that pace, even this point in the season, we would win like 94 games. lets set out to win series….a win last night would have been a good start, but we can still win this one. go braves!

By Overlord-D-Day

June 18, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

Accurate post Lew, since no team has half the injuries (total DL transaction and not meaning players) that the braves have had. I mean, glavine twice, smoltz twice and OFS, Soriano twice, chipper has like 4 times on day 2 day, prado, kotsay, diaz, yunel , KJ, gonzo, hampton, carlyle, JJJ, JF, etc. Kind of absurd. Good times are finally getting here. Gonzo coming back is as huge as getting smoltz in the bullpen. Hampton appears to be almost ready (2 weeks), Prado is almost ready. Soriano is almost ready (will he ever???). The only team with half the adversity we have had is the mets and they are tied with us in the standings. Thats impressive.

By Renegator

June 18, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

KC

Bobby would rather pitch Bennett, Ohman, Acosta, and Boyer only

Those are the only 4 relievers he uses no matter what the situation is.

By TennesseePaul

June 18, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

KC: It is ridiculous. But it might have to do with the number innings per reliever he’s been using. Buddy has “long man” attached to his name, though I don’t recall him being in a game in a while. Stockman has good, young, pitcher attached to his name which means he’s expendable. Plus, does Buddy have options to go back to the minors or is it a waiver deal?

By Larvell Blanks

June 18, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

22oz: Sending Stockman down makes sense. Bobby only needs 3 righties-Boyer, Acosta, and Bennett. They can pitch an inning apiece every night.

Maybe my right parahippocampal gyrus is a bit off today, but it almost sounds like you think an inning-a-day from Manny Longball is a good thing. I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt and just assume I missed some subtle sarcasm.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 18, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

KC Carlyle has been effective, he has a 2.70 ERA. Ridgway would have been a better choice. You cant have like 10 kids on the bullpen, maybe Carlyle is a good veteran to have there.

Renegator this is not a .500 club. Now that Gonzo is back the bullpen will stronger. Less stress on pitchers minds. They now will know their roles and that makes it much more easier for them. Looks like SP and Bullpen are a force now. This will ease the pressure on the offense. But it is true that we need chipper, I dont think his injury is that bad, he scored all the way from 1b couple of days ago (I think). He was due to slump. Good thing is that even while slumping he has been able to stay at .400. He WILL gets som 3 or 4 hits in this searies. The pitching we are facing today and tomorrow is not good. Youll see.

By KC

June 18, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

Jeff Ridgway, at Richmond this year, has allowed 56 base runners in 36 innings, with a .316 opposing average, and a 4.64 ERA.

Sure, I can see why he’s more deserving of a major league roster spot than Stockman.

By Shaun

June 18, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

All the Braves probably have to do to be in the Wild Card hunt is win around 85 games. I think this team is still more than capable of doing that.

From now until the All-Star break, they have a relatively easy schedule (except for three against the Phillies). Their second-half schedule looks a little more favorable, especially in the early going.

I’m going to make a bold prediction: This team is about to go on a really good run from now until around mid-September, barring any more major injuries.

By Supes

June 18, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

McFann I know, sad but true.

someone has to say it. I’m not hoping Jeff fails, I really would like to see him turn it around but alas, until he does, he’s fair game. Being a local town “hero” doesn’t expempt one from being criticized when letting his team down night after night. What is so frustrating about Jeff, you know he’s not going up there tryin to fail and you know he cares. But he’s not willing to change his plate discipline, his entire approach to the adjustments big league pitchers have been making on him.

You’d think he’d listen to Chipper and whoever else is trying to tell him all of this, you’d think we’d see an effort to correct his ways at the plate…but nothing. He’ll have 1 or 2 AB per week where he looks like he’ll snap right out of it, hits a hard double to right center and you’re encouraged…but it’s back to K’ing and grounding to the SS or 3B after that trying to pull that low and away slider or breaking ball.

KC

I think the Phil Stockman deal is a Bobby Cox issue. He’s not one of “Bobby’s Boys”. Simple as that. Simple as why Anderson was sent down to the minors, and why Bryan Pena was waived and the “stellar defensive catcher” Corky Miller still fills a roster spot.

By KC

June 18, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

TennPaul: That’s a good point about Carlyle and options. I don’t know the answer.

Nevertheless… I would rather cut Carlyle all together and keep Stockman on the big league roster.

Ridgway is another guy (as I just pointed out) that is less deserving than Stockman.

With Acosta and Boyer becoming much more hittable of late, and Gonzo fresh off the DL, the Braves could use another late-inning reliever. Stockman just might be the guy… but how will we ever know?

By Lew

June 18, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Larvell-Is your left parahippocampal gyrus balancing you well today?

By KC

June 18, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

Overlord-D-Day: You’re right, Carlyle has been effective so far this year. And given the fact that - with Gonzo back, we already have 3 other lefties… I certainly agree that Rigway would have been a better choice to get the boot.

However, I would keep Stockman over either one of them. He has dominated EVERYWHERE he’s pitched so far. Time to give the boy a look.

By Efrim

June 18, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

Lew

More frustration with Frenchy than anything. Deep down I don’t think he should be platooned, but he is hurting the team. When Kotsay gets back, he needs to be put in the 2 hole and Kelly needs to be put in the 6 hole, regardless of whether or not a lefty is on the mound. Jeff really shouldn’t be batting higher than 7th right now.

By Seth

June 18, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

Speaking of youngin’s, I went to the North Division/South Division All-Star game last night. Jason Heyward hit one over the scoreboard in right on the first pitch he saw. The ball must’ve went 420+ because there’s nothing but street behind the RF wall. He just threw his hands at the pitch - didn’t swing hard. He’s enormous - listed as 6-4, 200 lbs but he looks bigger on the field. Reminds me a bit of Darryl Strawberry (minus the cocaine). He’s sort of goofy in his athleticism. When he runs out to RF he sort of bounds along. Oh, and he’s batting .332. I can’t wait to see what happens with him (stay in OF, convert to first after Tex leaves?)

By 22oz

June 18, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

Larvell, yes, subtle sarcasm is kinda my thing. I don’t have it trademarked or anything, but it is my favorite way to express myself.

Maybe the Stockman thing has something to do with that deal where if you call a player up, he has to stay up for a certain number of days. Ridgeway was called up last tuesday i believe, so yesterday was a week. If thats not the case, then i am baffled. Having four lefties in the pen, (although Gonzo won’t be used as a situational lefty), is very confusing. Maybe Wren made the choice b/c he saw Stockman was rotting in the pen. The nail in the coffin may have been in Colorado when Bobby used Bennett in a 7-0 game, and had Boyer warming up!If thats not a sign Stockman won’t be used, then i don’t know what is. Absolutely ridiculous on Bobby’s part.

By brian

June 18, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

you have to be kidding me that they sent down Stockman. He has been our most effective reliever since the bullpen implosion. Of course it makes since to send down stockman so we can have 4 lefties in the bullpen. Unbelievable. First Anderson comes up and does great then gets sent down (Brandon Jones has been superb and Blanco has picked it up, but there are a lot of people getting splinters on the bench who deserved to go down more than Anderson.) Now stockman gets sent down while keeping Ridgeway. Unbelievable.

Who makes these decisions? Wrenn? Cox?

By Efrim

June 18, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

This is from Buster Olney this morning:

The Atlanta Braves continue to struggle, and at some point, they will face the same decision with Mark Teixeira that the Indians have to make with C.C. Sabathia: Do they trade the prospective free agent for established talent, or do they keep him for the rest of the season and just take the draft-pick compensation when he walks away at the end of the year?

In a summer in which teams are absolutely starving for power hitters, the Braves might well get more value by trading him — to the Angels, who may need to find a way to make up for the power that Vladimir Guerrero has not been providing, or the Dodgers, or the Yankees (though this is very unlikely). But here’s an intriguing thought (and it’s nothing but speculation): For the same reason that the Red Sox might be the best-positioned team to make a run at Sabathia, if they wanted to, Boston could be best positioned to make a short-term acquisition of Teixeira.

The only reason the Red Sox would consider doing this would be if they determined, internally, that David Ortiz will not be able to make it all the way back. Even though he might play again this year, that does not guarantee that he actually will come close to being as good as he has been in the past, with wrist injuries being an uncertain and touchy matter. The Red Sox are so loaded with prospects that they can hang onto the likes of Clay Buchholz and Jon Lester and Justin Masterson and Jed Lowrie and tell other teams to consider their secondary prospects. And while there is on-going debate about how much money Teixeira will be paid as a free agent this fall — many executives think it will be far less than the $200 million speculated upon in some corners — there is no doubt that he would be a suitable replacement for Ortiz. The Red Sox could essentially rotate the Gold Glover with Kevin Youkilis and Mike Lowell in the first/third/DH spots, and down the stretch, they could simulate the kind of power that Ortiz has given them in the past. And then, at season’s end, they could let Teixeira walk away and they could take the draft picks as compensation.

He went onto say that he doesn’t think this is going to happen. I don’t think it will either. But if this team does fall out of it, my god would a package of Michael Bowden and Lars Anderson be amazing. Anyway, it ain’t happening.

By AJ 25

June 18, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

Do you think the Braves brass realizes that Frenchy may not become the superstar they thought he would be?

Do you think that is the reason they signed McCann but not Frenchy?

By Renegator

June 18, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

Overlord-D-Day

You are in denial if you don’t think this is a .500 club. It has been since 2006. They haven’t shown anything at all to prove that they are not.

Don’t worry - acceptance is the final step and you’ll get there soon enough.

By Shaun

June 18, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

Supes and others, I think Francoeur’s struggles show how difficult and possibly under-appreciated a skill is plate discipline. Some think it can be learned and taught, and learned and taught rather easily. But plate discipline is much like the ability to hit a curveball—for the most part a hitter either has it or he doesn’t.

Sure, I believe a hitter can learn things to make their discipline better. But for the most part discipline is a fairly innate or it’s something that must be learned from a very early age.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 18, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

Shaun I dont think braves should be aiming at WC. They need that 1st round home field advantage. WC will mean theyll play cubs in chicago, that doesnt looks good specially in a short series. We need to surpass the phillies. Thats our only chance to get to the NLCS.

By Efrim

June 18, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

Overlord

Why do we need an arm? we have the 5 spots covered and hampton and glavine will be here in 3 weeks or less

In three weeks? Thats a tad bit optimistic.

By KC

June 18, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

Efrim: I don’t think the Braves are going to fall out of it. They’re 6 games back from the Phillies in the loss column, and that certainly isn’t insurmountable with more than half the season left to play.

The Wild Card is also well within reach.

Hudson struggled last night, and that’s why we lost. It happens. But overall, the Braves are playing quite well right now.

The bullpen gave up only 1 run in 3-2/3 innings last night, and the offense scored 5 runs.

Other than 2-0 loss in LA, the Braves have been hitting well since leaving Chicago.

Anyway, Hudson doesn’t have many starts like this, and will obviously be fine. And the rest of the rotation looks good.

Gonzo is coming back, and if he can remain healthy, that should really stabilize the pen.

In short, I’m not sure I agree that the Braves “continue to struggle”. Let’s at least wait and see how the rest of the month plays out before we start talking about the Braves as sellers.

Tex, in all likelyhood, is going to come around, and have one of his trademark second halves. When that happens, I think the offense will start putting up better numbers.

As long as Gonzo and/or Soriano is healthy, this team should start winning a lot of games, and will make a legitimate post-season charge.

It’ll be really interesting to see if Reyes and Morton can keep it up over the next couple days. If they do, I think the rest of the league will have to start taking notice of the Braves young pitching.

By Shaun

June 18, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

Seth, I think Heyward is still a ways away. The Braves don’t have to think about moving him. I doubt what happens with Teixeira next year would have much barring on what they do with Heyward. He’s still only 18, so he’s still probably at least two years away at the very least. But it’s clear he’s got a decent shot at stardom once he’s ready.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 18, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

JF will become a star. He needs more time to mature, thats all. He is going through hell right now. He will learn to stay off or away from down and away stuff.

The reality of things is that it doesnt matter if it was stockman or ridgway, cox is not using any of them anyway. He should but he doesnt. What about Ring, he has 14 IP, what the hell do they have him on the roster? Use the guy, he is not that bad. He should be used in blowouts more frequently.

By DAP

June 18, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

AJ25 Do you think that is the reason they signed McCann but not Frenchy?

frenchy is the reason they didnt sign frenchy. he turned down their long-term offer. (which, by the way, i think is dumb. why would anyone ever turn down garaunteed millions for possible more millions. id take the sure thing and hope for another big payday when the contract was up.)

anyways, the braves tried to sign him, jeff held out, hoping for more money. it might come back and bite him….of course, it might not.

By Shaun

June 18, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

Overlord-D-Day, I know it’s cliche but I doubt their goal is anything except trying to win every game. You know, one game at a time and all that. But the overall goal is to win as many games as possible and get in to the playoffs where anything can happen.

By McFann©

June 18, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this

Supes—

I agree with you. I’m not hoping he fails, either. I don’t like to think, “Well, there goes that rally…” whenever he comes up with the bases loaded. It would be really great for this team if he’d turn it around…at least a little bit.

AJ 25—

That, plus the fact that Francoeur turned down an offer that was a bit more than what they gave McCann. For that guy to think he’s worth more than what they offered him is crazy, to me. He a lot to prove before he gets paid that kind of dough.

Shaun—

True about PD—you either have it, or you don’t. But can’t somebody show him something? This team needs the man to produce!

By Overlord-D-Day

June 18, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

Efrim Hampton will start his rehab in minors next week. how much time you think hell be there? 2? 3? I dont think he will be there a month. I really do think Hampton will pitch before glavine does in atlanta.

Renegator Ill bet you anything you want that if Gonzo is here for good, braves will play above .520 ball from here to Allstar break. And if Kotsay and prado are also back next week theyll play .530 - 540 ball. This is a .500 club without a closer and with glavine pitching 5 and JoJo pitching 5. Thats not the case anymore. PIECES ARE FALLING INTO PLACE, YOULL SEE, BRAVES WILL GET THEIR POSTSEASON BERTH.

By N8

June 18, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

Today’s a good day for the Braves. It’s a good day for Mike Gonzalez. Welcome back.

While I’ve been one of the people in the category of using caution when being excited about his return, due to his surgically repaired elbow possibly not allowing him to go the way he would go about his business when completely healthy, his track record speaks for itself, and having another lefty at the back end of games to pair up with Ohman is NOT a bad thing.

While having another reliable arm in the pen to lock down the few leads we seem to have had lately, is definitely a good thing, I still don’t think gaining Mike Gonzalez back is as big of a deal as it looks like it is on the surface in the grand scheme of things.

Our bullpen has been pretty damn good. In reality he’s replacing a guy on the roster that has hardly pitched while being here. When digging deeper, I realize that he’s not replacing Stockman, but “bumping” everybody down a notch, since, until Soriano comes back, he likely will be “the man” out there. Lessening everybody else’s “role”.

But again, I think getting more offense from the outfield, and a tear from Tex is what is keeping this team from rolling right now.

The young starters are off and running (which is awesome). Even with Hudson’s “bump” last night, our rotation appears to be OK for the time being (still wouldn’t mind another veteran starter to ease the work load for the young guys (Just in case), but the rotation is NOT the problem. The bullpen, for the most part, is NOT the problem.

Get a bat Wren.

By Braveheart

June 18, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

He’ll have 1 or 2 AB per week where he looks like he’ll snap right out of it, hits a hard double to right center and you’re encouraged…but it’s back to K’ing and grounding to the SS or 3B after that trying to pull that low and away slider or breaking ball.

His problem is not his lack of plate discipline as much as it is his messed up mechanics. That’s why he’s inconsistent.

Frenchy right now is like a basketball player that can hit 5 shots in a row but miss his next 15 shots because he was only mechanically sound on the 5 shots he hit. Granted, some of it may be that he is forcing bad shots with a higher degree of difficulty but the problem lies more with flawed mechanics than poor discipline in choosing which shot to take. If his mechanics were more pure, he would nail all the jumpers he’s supposed to make and also some of the undisciplined shots he forces as well.

If you look at Frenchy, he’s not only not hitting balls out of the zone but also strikes in the zone as well. That’s just mechanical flaws getting in the way of his performance. Watch his back leg and that hitch in his back arm tonight. You’ll see what I am talking about unless he somehow corrects it today. Does Pendleton notice this at all?

People keep saying he needs to listen to Chipper but I don’t really think he needs to. He’s not Chipper. He never will be. To be honest, what I think is going on with Jeff is that he’s screwed in the head by all the criticism that he needs to hit the ball the other way, that he needs to increase his OBP, that he needs to improve his plate discipline, that he needs to hit more homers, that he needs to hit more line drives and have a higher average.

He’s trying to be everything to everyone and just needs to go back to who he is at his core as a hitter: a freeswinging hack and jacking slugger. Perfecting his mechanics will forgive alot of his undisciplined sins as a hitter.

When I look at his mechanical flaws, contrary to what others think, it almost seems that he’s listening too much to people who say he’s pull happy. Like a pitcher who alters his mechanics to aim or push the ball for a strike, he almost looks like he is trying too hard to hit the ball the other way and has subconsciously altered his mechanics to make it happen. Of course, the result is that he is not hitting the ball the other way and he is no longer pulling the ball with authority either.

Expecting Jeff to ever have anywhere near the plate discipline of Chipper Jones doesn’t make sense. It’s like asking Mailman Malone to have the court vision of John Stockton. Understand the essence of the young ballplayer and work on perfecting his mechanics before you ever start working on the other things like increased discipline. His court vision or plate discipline will increase as he gets older and develops and gets more experience like it does for all basketball players or baseball hitters.

Just look at Andruw Jones and his struggles. He had respectable plate discipline but looked like he had little last year - not because his plate discipline got worse but because his mechanics got all messed up (especially with that weird corkscrew action he had with the back leg) and he had no balance anymore to drive the ball or make contact with it the way that he used to. When you read all of DOB’s stats about Andruw’s decline, it all started and continued not with a decrease in plate discipline but a decrease in mechanics.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 18, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

Shaun,

I wonder as well if Francouer can learn the strike zone at this point. I’m not sure and I’m also not sure that he’s about as good as he’ll ever be right now.

I’ve also wondered if there isn’t something about the mechanics of his swing that make it extremely difficult for him to hit bad balls, even though he swings at them all the time. (Vlad Guerrero swings at lots of terrible pitches, too, but he hits them often and hard.)

Then I saw this Web site by Jeffrey Albert, a grad student in exercise science (ain’t academia great?) at La. Tech who played baseball in college and couple of indy pro teams.

The posts including video of Francoeur side-by-side with Vernon Wells (another fairly undisciplined hitter) and Manny Ramirez (well, we all know about him).

http://blog.swingtraining.net/2006/08/04/jeff-francoeur-part-2.aspx

http://blog.swingtraining.net/2006/07/18/jeff-francoeur-and-the-x-factor.aspx

Here’s the money quote about the Wells vs. Frenchy comparison:

These are both fastballs, so we know Francoeur can catch up to major league heat. I’ve seen him turn on mid-90s fastballs and he wouldn’t be in the big leagues if he couldn’t - that’s not the problem. The problem is that not every pitch is a fastball. If you set up a pitching machine at 95 mph you could probably find a number of hacks from a local softball league who could eventually find a way to make some contact. Does this mean they have MLB swings? No. It probably means they are starting their swing very early, maybe before they even see the ball, because they know what is coming and where it is going to end up.

Look at the way he throws his body at the strike zone almost before the pitch is released. He seems to have gotten a bit “more patient” this year but I think that’s because he decides that he is not going to swing at some pitches before they’re thrown. You’ll take a lot more pitches if you give yourself the take sign. That doesn’t mean your recognition of the strike zone is any better, or that it’s likely to get better.

By Efrim

June 18, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

KC

I wasn’t saying the Braves were done, just posting an article that Buster Olney wrote.

I don’t think the Braves are done. But we’ll know in the next 23 games. If they are still 6 games back at that point, then I think we will know that they need to make a trade to strengthen their team. If they are more than 6 games back of both the division and WC…..then start seeing what Tex can get you.

If it is two very good prospects from Boston like Lars Anderson and Michael Bowden, make the deal.

By ncscoots

June 18, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

When Kotsay gets back, he needs to be put in the 2 hole and Kelly needs to be put in the 6 hole, regardless of whether or not a lefty is on the mound. Jeff really shouldn’t be batting higher than 7th right now.

Agreed, even if it does gives opposing managers no-brainer late-game pitching matchups. Braves need his pop in the lower third, because of Francoeur’s continuing futility.

Most bloggers (not you, Efrim) always harp on “Kelly hits better lower in the order”. Not really the case.

KJ has fewer than 200 PA batting in the bottom third, and has hit very well there, but with an outrageous BABIP (over .400), so he’s hit into good luck there. The sample size says that’s bound to be an aberration.

On the other hand, he has nearly 900 (NINE HUNDRED!) PA hitting 1 or 2, with a BABIP just under .310, or barely on the bad-luck side of normal. In those spots, he has a good BA, very good OBP, and excellent slugging in a sample size that’s much more definitive than his lower-order numbers.

The KJ-bashers won’t like it, but hit him at the top of the order and you can pretty well count on .270/.350/.450; hit him in the lower third, and you’ll probably get the same. Not because “he hits better lower in the order”, but because he hits, period.

By AGTfan

June 18, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

Overlord-D-Day

Looking over your posts today, you seem to be in an optimistic mood. You are correct that no team has half the injuries (total DL transaction and not meaning players) that the braves have had. I’m not sure I agree with you that JF will be a star someday, but I am sure that he’s a better player than he’s showing right now. I still suspect that he’s playing hurt, but I don’t know.

Anyway, I wanted to compliment you on your posts today. A nice touch of optimistic realism.

By Shamus Thacker

June 18, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

Never know what you’re gonna get with Huddy. He’s three pitchers in one; the good, the bad, and the ugly…

By McFann©

June 18, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

Tell me again what BABIP is, please.

By Epinephrine

June 18, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

Big next two games. If we can take another road series, our road woes could be behind us. Having Gonzo back should really, really help. Adding to that, if Morton and Reyes have good outings, it gives us a reason to be optimistic. If neither does, it is very worrisome. I am still cautiously optimistic about both those guys. Could be the start of a special young trio, with Hampton/Glavine filling in for whoever is the weak link come the Break.

By KC

June 18, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

N8: “Tex is what is keeping this team from rolling right now.”

Agreed.

If you look at his season totals, one might say “He’s not having a bad season”. But when you consider that he has a .400 hitting slugger in front of him, and a great hitter (McCann) behind him… he should be having a monster season.

He’s blown a LOT of opportunities. Opposing pitchers are (wisely) pitching around Chipper left and right, and Tex has been - for the most part - unable to make them pay.

If Teixeira can have one of his trademark second halves… this team (assuming it continues to get this kind of pitching) should make a serious charge.

Francoeur is another big factor in the Braves offensive underachievement. Gotta pick it up boys!

By Efrim

June 18, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

I like my corner bats to take pitches, get on base and hit for extra bases(high slugging percentage). Frenchy hasn’t done that this year. Do I want all of the players on my team to do that? Sure. But I think it is really important to do that when you play at 1st base, 3rd Base, Left Field or Right Field. Can Jeff get better at pitch recognition and plate discipline at age 24? Of course. Hopefully within the next few seasons.

By Original Jon

June 18, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

Braves interested in Randy Winn? According to MLBTradeRumors.com, they are.

By Billy Walsh

June 18, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

Hey SETH, that comment about Strawberry was priceless (LMFAO). With Tex’s struggles, I wonder how much his trade value has diminished. Given the fact that he is a free agent at the end of the season, I dont see Boston giving up anything good to acquire him. Maybe the Angels would give up Kotchmann, but I doubt it. Remember when the braves were trying to acquire McLouth from the pirates during the winter? Man, that sucks. Classic post from MLB traderumors: Braves interested in Randy Winn? Why on earth would the braves want to take 8 million for an average outfielder?

By ncscoots

June 18, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

McFann, BABIP is Batting Average on Balls In Play. How well does a hitter succeed upon contact.

By Lew

June 18, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

AJ25-When the Braves first offered Frenchy a long term deal (when McCann signed his) he was coming off of a sub par season after the promise of his rookie year (even with the 100 RBI) and he wasn’t happy with their low ball figure-he thought with patience he could do much better $$$$-wise.

After last season when he brought up his OBP and BA, he didn’t like their offer because he saw Cabrera and Howard getting much more in arbitration-which he will be eligible for after this season-thinking he could get an award much larger than the Braves’ offer, similar to that of the aforementioned sluggers.

I’m not so certain I would have done differently were I Frenchy. I see his point. However, his performance so far will not lead to the figures he has had in mind, so it is now looking like he made a mistake. It’s all on him, though-not the Braves. I still think they would have signed him longer term had he agreed to their figures.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 18, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

AGTfan Thanks for the compliment. Getting Gonzo back is very exciting. Im also looking forward to Prado, Kotsay and Hampton. I know they will all be here soon. Hampton will be here in 3 weeks…..Thats what i think.

Go Bravos!!!!!!

ncscoots when kotsay comes back, I think he will not see as much playing time as he did before, cox will have more precaution with him. But yes, hitting him 2nd when he is in is a no-brainer.

By McFann©

June 18, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

Thanks, ncscoots!

By Renegator

June 18, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

Overlord

Wow! - they are going to play .520 ball until the All-Star break? That is really going out on a limb there, Hoss. That’s only 3 weeks man and most of those games are at home.

So what if they do play .520 ball or even .530 ball for the next three weeks? What does that get them? 5.5 games out instead of 6.5 out? They need to play good ball for much longer than 3 weeks.

I still say that by the end of the season - this will be a .500 club (maybe 1 game over) for the 3rd straight year.

By Shamus Thacker

June 18, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

Anybody who doesn’t believe that the NBA decides which matchup is most attractive for the finals, and then puts the wheels in motion [the fix] to make it happen, is delusional. The NBA has no credibility at this point, whatsoever.

By KC

June 18, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Efrim: Understood.

Lew & nscoots: Any word on when Kotsay might be back? I’m reluctant to count on anything from him at this point.

I still kind of hope the Braves will go after a leadoff hitter before the deadline.

There are only 2 possibilities I can think of: Brain Roberts, or maybe Randy Winn (he’s not a pure leadoff hitter… but good speed and OBP).

Every other leadoff hitter worth having is either playing for a contender, or is very young, making them unlikely to be traded away.

I thought about Johnny Damon if the Yanks fell out of it, but they’re now making a charge.

By justdoit

June 18, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

if someone has an insider account can they post Buster Olney’s blog about scenarios for Mark Teixeira trades if they decide to trade him?

By KC

June 18, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

Just thought about another leadoff possibility…

What about Ryan Freel? He’s not having a great year (don’t think he’s playing every day)… but he’s been a very solid leadoff man for a number of years, and the price tag shouldn’t be outrageous.

By nolie

June 18, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

I’ve seen him turn on mid-90s fastballs and he wouldn’t be in the big leagues if he couldn’t - that’s not the problem. The problem is that not every pitch is a fastballOlney

yes that is a big part of the problem. I agree with BH that his mechanics suck lately, but I have always believed that he has trouble recognizing breaking pitches and where they are likely to end up. This is pretty common to some degree or another. It is very often the problem that makes so many toolsy guys fail in the bigs. Lombard, Komminsk, etc etc etc. I’m not sure that he will ever become really proficient at it, but like BH said, correcting his mechanics will help some.

I also agree that he is pressing and trying to be everything to everybody. This is a tough time for a young guy who has always been a stud, who has never really had to deal with prolonged failure. Some guys eventually tough their way through it, but some guys eventually kinda give up because they never had to learn how to really persevere in the face of challanges.

By Shaun

June 18, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

BravesFanInRockies, I think the likelihood is very high that Francoeur will put together better seasons that what we’ve seen, even better than last season.

He’s never going to walk 80-100 times a year but he’s got plenty of tools to be a very good player in his peak years.

At the same time I also agree with those who say he’s not likely to become the elite player some thought he would become.

By MGL

June 18, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

Not a good day yesterday for the senior circuit. Only NL wins in inter-league were Co over Cleveland and Mil over Tor. Good news, all East teams lost so we did not lose any more ground.

By KC

June 18, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Another thing about Freel…

He’s hitting .339 against lefties, so you could have him share time in LF and at the leadoff spot with Blanco.

Freel was hurt a good bit last year, but prior to that, he had 3 straight, remarkably consistent seasons. During that stretch, every year he posted a .370 OBP and stole 37 bases.

If he could get on base at a .370 clip here and provide some speed at the top of the order, that could really energize this lineup.

By Shaun

June 18, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

ncscoots, You probably know this but one thing to keep in mind: BABIP are just balls in the field of play; homeruns aren’t taken into account.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 18, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Renegator I meant on the road…..I missed that one. At home we know theyll keep tearing it for some .700 ball.

By ernesto

June 18, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

For 2 years now people keep bringing Ryan Freel up - I don’t understand the love affair.

I know he’s fast and can play a lot of positions, but seriously, is his career .270 average and .357 OBP really THE ANSWER at lead off?

By Shamus Thacker

June 18, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

I’ll stop on the NBA after this.

The NBA lottery was adopted in order to manipulate placement of elite players. Why wouldn’t they WANT the worst team automatically getting the best player? That would keep a team of the league’s choosing from trading for another team’s pick and then just HAPPENING to win the lottery.

The NBA and Pro Wrestling are equal in my mind.

By Shaun

June 18, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

KC, Winn is a possibility according to the SF Chronicle.

I think the Orioles are going to ask for more than Roberts is worth. Plus I don’t see the Braves moving Kelly Johnson to left in mid-season.

Regarding Damon, I think he’s a shell of his former self. Plus, what’s he making? $13 million or so this season? I think the Yankees would have to get a lot more than he is worth in order to agree to pay a significant chunk of his salary.

As far as Freel, he’s punch-less. His career slugging is .376. He’s still a useful utility-type player but not worth giving up a quality young player or two for him.

By TexasBrave

June 18, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Just wanted to throw a couple of cents into the Frenchy talk. In the few games I have seen him on TV this year I have noticed that he as been opening up way two soon, thus he is only able to hit balls on the inner half of the plate. Most pitchers have wised up to this and he sees mostly outside pitches. I don’t remember seeing him step out as much when he was hitting well the last couple of years.

I also don’t think his strike zone recognition is as much of a problem as is his tendency for swinging at anything close to the plate. I would like for him to be a little more selective when he come to the plate. Nothing wrong with swinging at the first pitch if you are looking for a certain pitch in a certain spot. He goes up hacking at anything and ever thing and gets himself in huge holes that he mostly can’t get out of. You get three strikes why not use them to find a pitch you can handle instead of the slop he usually gets because pitchers know 9 times out of ten French will swing at anything close to the zone.

His numbers our down because his pitch selection is poor, pure and simple.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 18, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

KC,

Freel would be a crowd-pleaser but there may be a reason he doesn’t play a lot. He has no regard for his body. He’s as bad as if not worse than Jim Edmonds in his prime. He’s almost reckless in the field, diving after balls that should be routine plays because he misjudges them off the bat. (Including collisions and near-misses with teammates.)

As a platoon player, maybe (the Braves could use a RH bat). Just expect him to miss a lot of action because he’s banged up.

By ernesto

June 18, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

Shamus, the NBA claims its lottery system prevents any team from intentionally tanking and losing games to get a better pick.

That’s the logic I’ve always heard.

By braves70

June 18, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

Coot Cox won’t give Stockman a chance because: He doesn’t like them Englishters. Why Coot Cox was with Andy Jackson at New Orleans when Old Hickory sent them Red Coats a runnin. or Coot Cox doesn’t like Stockman beacuse of his name. STOCK MAN is what Coot Cox would be at some Home Depot if it were not for his lifetime appointment as manager of the Braves. He doesn’t like to think about such.

By Daybed Wagmoe

June 18, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

Original Jon — Thanks for that link. I think that Randy Winn would be a great pickup — veteran hitter, doesn’t strike out too much, speed, solid defense, can hit leadoff and (I would think) affordable for the rest of the year. Also, his second-half average is .016 points higher than his first-half average. I wonder what it would take to get him…

I’m a bit afraid that they’ll stick with the B. Jones/Blanco/Norton rotation for the outfield that they’ve been utilizing. Jones has hit well since being called up, but I think that his hitting will eventually balance out and he’ll be in the .260-.275 range after a few weeks. I hope I’m wrong, but I’d rather not see them rely on him for the long haul…Blanco has already flattened out, and he’s now in the .260s. Norton…well, I won’t even bother. They signed him to be a bat off the bench, not an everyday OF.

By Coach Smith

June 18, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

Renegator

i get mad at this team too BUT…

6 games out with 90 to play is nothing..ESPECIALLy when you get to play the Phillies 12 more times..

The thing about it is, if the Braves win the next 2 in Texas (not a stretch considering Texas’ pitchers) and the Phillies lose today (they’re off tomorrow)

Then you come back from a brutal road trip at 4.5-5 games out and everyone’s tune changes….

so you would’ve actually gained ground over a very tough road trip and get to come home against Seattle (horrible) and Milwakee, then Philly…

While at the same time the Phillies will have to go west for 6 games before returning at the end of a long west coast trip to play 3 in Atlanta

Now is the time…but it far far too early to write the season off yet

By Shaun

June 18, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

ernesto, a .357 OBP is fine for leadoff. But the .376 SLG is not fine for an everyday major leaguer, particularly an outfielder.

KC, also I think we’ve seen the best of Freel. He’s now 32 and was never outstanding to begin with. I think last year’s injuries were a sign he’s done as a regular or semi-regular player and should be relegated to very limited back-up duty.

By PMC

June 18, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

Obviously, Tex can play better than this but he dosen’t seem to care and it’s obvious by his comments and his constant hitting into double plays and being generally the easiest out on the team other than Francouer. The guy strikes out like Adam Dunn. You want to pay him fine… he’s not worth more than he’s being paid. The only real advantage is that he’s not as awful as Andrew Jones at the plate who by the way has the same ear plugs in when it comes to pulling everything. They can either keep him the rest of the year or trade him for prospects but obviously however you slice it the braves traded a ton of prospects for an overly effeminate guy who dosen’t really care about baseball or getting better or winning just that he’s well paid. Might as well let him play out his string and get out of town. So glad they don’t owe him long term.

By BA

June 18, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Carroll, why did they send down Stockman instead of Ridgeway? Do we really need four leftys in the ‘pen? I don’t get it.

By KC

June 18, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

Shaun: Freel is a leadoff type of hitter. He’s a guy you hit 1st or 8th. Slugging% is irrelevant.

He doesn’t get many extra base hits, but he’s going to get on base and use his speed to get himself in scoring position.

He was hurt much of last year and didn’t have a very good season… but in the 3 straight seasons prior, he consistently got on base, and stole at a fairly high percentage.

And again, we could certainly use a guy who wears out lefties, which he does.

I would love to see a Blanco/Freel platoon at the top of the order.

To repeat what I said earlier… while you never get something for nothing (unless you’re the Lakers trading with Memphis), I really don’t think we’d have to give up a great deal in return for Freel.

By Coach Smith

June 18, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

Randy Winn is NOT the answer…No power and that’s whats missing in the outfield now

Now if SF wants to give up ROWAND that’s a different story…

Also the MARINERS are about to Release RICHIE SEXSON

By ernesto

June 18, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

KJ 08 .275/.349/.454 career .266/.358/.440

Yunel 08 .297/.373/.399 career .313/.380/.427

Freel 08 .298/.340/.359 career .272/.357/.376

Freel adds some speed, takes away a lot of pop - is that really worth trading anything valuable for?

Not saying we couldn’t use adding a quality bat for the OF, but, as I said, I don’t get the whole “Freel would be a huge upgrade at lead off” thing.

By Oralondo

June 18, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

What do you hear about the Braves looking at Randy Winn from the Giants. MLBtraderumors.com is reporting thre is intrest there:

” Braves Interested In Randy Winn? According to Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle, the Braves are one team with “apparent interest” in Giants right fielder Randy Winn. Winn can play all three outfield positions. Lately the Braves have been using Brandon Jones in left, Gregor Blanco in center, and Jeff Francoeur in right. Matt Diaz will be out several more weeks with a knee injury, while Mark Kotsay has a lower back issue.

Winn, 34, is hitting a respectable .298/.359/.447 in 288 plate appearances. Winn’s line would look better in center field, but Blanco has a tidy .375 OBP going. Winn makes $8MM this year and $8.25MM in ‘09. He can block trades to ten teams. I imagine Brian Sabean would settle for a marginal prospect if a team would take on all of Winn’s contract.”

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/

By Renegator

June 18, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith

And how have we done against the Phillies this year?

Dude, they are such a superior team to the Braves.

Playing them 12 more times this year is a bad thing - not a good thing.

By KC

June 18, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

Shaun: “ernesto, a .357 OBP is fine for leadoff. But the .376 SLG is not fine for an everyday major leaguer, particularly an outfielder.”

Good point. That’s probably why the Mariners are struggling… because they’re playing that lousy bum, Ichiro, and his .381 slugging% every day.

The year Lou Brock stole 118 bases and scored 105 runs, he only slugged .381.

And the years that Vince Coleman stole over 100 bases and scored 100-plus runs, he never slugged higher than .358…

So I guess those guys were hurting their teams?

By ncscoots

June 18, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

Shaun, you’re right, I’ve should have been a little more explicit in that post to McFann. Thanks for backing me up on that, brother…

And why would the Braves want Randy Winn? Well, I don’t know, maybe because he’s a veteran SH who can play all three OF slots? Maybe?

I recall Wayne being the first poster in the offseason to tout Winn as a possibility, prior to the Kotsay trade. I liked the idea then, and do now. Not as a leadoff hitter, but bottom third. Some insurance against Kotsay’s back, Diaz’s struggles, and Jones’s return to earth.

You’re on the hook for his contract next year, though, and I don’t know if that would be an issue for the Braves.

By DAP

June 18, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

braveheart yes yes yes, on frenchy’s mechanics. they are terrible. thank you bravesfaninrockies for posting the sideview of frenchy’s swing. it is very very telling.

one big thing i notice about jeff’s swing compared to wells and ramirez…how much the bat moves before jeff swings. he pulls his hands back and up as he is getting ready to swing, and has to bring them all the way back down to the ball. if you watch manny and wells, youll see that their bat doesnt move until they start to bring it forward. they are already in the position to thorw the bat through the zone. this makes jeff have to start swinging early, which means its harder for him to stop his swing, which translates into jooe sipson saying “it looked like he decided to swing before the pitch got thrown.” thats exactly what he did.

the problem is like 90% in jeff’s hands. if he guesses wrong, hes gonna look stupid. this is a BIG problem that he needs to get fixed right away. i wonder if he has worked on getting his machanics right?

to me, this is how jeff should hold his bat he wouldnt need to stand like this, but see how pujols’ bat is cocked back towards the ump a little bit? his arms are bat are already in a position to come though the zone, before the pitch is even thrown. its one less motion pujols has to make, and thats what jeff needs. to many moving parts.

By Efrim

June 18, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

KC

Slugging percentage is never irrelevent.

Shaun

Check Standings at ESPN.com. They have added a column for run differential as oppose to just the runs scored and runs against. I just thought that was funny….and needed.

By BA

June 18, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith is right. Only the retards have written off the season. Philly is hardly unbeatable. Especially when we get to face that fat wife beater Brett Myers.

By ernesto

June 18, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Personally, I’d love to pry Nady from Pittsburgh, I wonder how much they’d want for him.

By Cody

June 18, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

People the reason that Stockman was sent down and the Braves kept alll the lefties is becasue they are showcasing most of them. We are the only team in baseball with all of the options from the left side. When soriano comes back this weekend Risgeway will be sent to the minors or traded. Every bullpen in the majors need a lefty and some are looking are for them just think about it. Hang on people the good old winning ways are about to rick the NL.

By KC

June 18, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith: The lack of power has been primarily due to the underperformance of Tex and Frenchy.

I expect Teixeira, at least, to have a much better second half.

I think the greatest need this team has is for a leadoff hitter. The Braves need to do a better job manufacturing runs, when necessary. Speed at the top of the order will help a lot.

Also, having a leadoff hitter will allow Escobar and KJ to hit where they’re most comfortable and at their best. So in that sense, it may make the rest of the lineup better as well.

I don’t know that Winn is the answer at leadoff. He’s hitting 3rd now, and isn’t a prototypical leadoff hitter… but he does have good speed and is getting on base at a nice clip.

By ernesto

June 18, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

**The year Lou Brock stole 118 bases and scored 105 runs, he only slugged .381.

And the years that Vince Coleman stole over 100 bases and scored 100-plus runs, he never slugged higher than .358…** -KC

Come on now. Ryan Freel and his 6 stolen bases this year (with 4 CS) is like having a Lou Brock or Vince Coleman? Really????

By BravesFanInRockies

June 18, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

KC,

If we’re going to make a deal for a veteran OF, I’ll get back on this horse again: Brian Giles.

His contract is comparable to Winn’s, and he’s a much better offensive player: .918 career OPS (vs. Winn’s .780). His power has declined since the move to Petco but he still has more pop than Winn, and that’s what we need. Plus he gets on base more often.

By ncscoots

June 18, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

BFIR, isn’t that film of Francoeur from a couple of years ago?

By BA

June 18, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

In my opinion, we need a power bat, not a leadoff. We have a .300 leadoff hitter currently, and two more options (Blanco, Anderson) if needed. We need an outfielder with power to do what that moron Frenchy has failed to do- protect Teixeira and McCann in the order. But Frank Wren, whatever you do, don’t trade the “Mexican Maddux”. He’s a blast to watch.

By DAP

June 18, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

boston is up 4-0 on philly and still batting in the first.

By ernesto

June 18, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Frenchy is in danger of becoming another Brad Komminsk.

He could wind up being our version of Pat Burrell though.

By Lew

June 18, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

Cody-Where did you hear Soriano would return this weekend? Have I missed something? Didn’t he just go on the DL a few days ago (yes, I know they could make it retroactive to last time he played) and I would have thought that it would take longer to evaluate, and at the very least, rest the elbow-especially after coming back from damn near the entire season on the DL and almost immediately experiencing more pain.

By Austin

June 18, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

Why the hell is Phil Stockman going down!?! In 7 1/3 IP he has allowed 2 H with 9 K! I do not get this. Send Ridgeway down. This is just plain stupid.

By Lew

June 18, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

Ryan Flipping Freel? Can we PLEASE get a dose of reality here?

The Dude has played in all of 48 of the 70 games Cincinnati has played this year and has an OBP of .340. The Dude has all of 8 BB, exhibiting damn near as little plate patience as Francoeur. He also runs into things and injures himself frequently. Do we really need more team injuries (Rhetorical-y’all know THAT answer)?

Like I said-Reality check time.

By Original Jon

June 18, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

Daybed, not a problem at all, anytime I can help :)

By Lew

June 18, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

Ernesto-I think your comparison of Frenchy to Pat Burrell may well be quite accurate in the long run. During a good season, that will be just fine. In an off year, maybe somewhat brutal.

By Bobby's Cox

June 18, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

“I’m not an emotional guy,” Teixeira said. “With my family, yeah, I’m emotional. Baseball, this is my job; this is a business. I work hard at it. If I play well, great. If I don’t, I’m not going to kill myself TEX

Let me do the honors then Tex.

Baseball fans would like their ballplayers to be at least as emotionally involved as they are. I’m assuming Tex never sported one of those “Baseball is Life” T-Shirts when he was in High School.

Is it any wonder that Andruw Jones replacement is having the similar results in a walk year possessing the same attitude Dodger fans are cringing about?

I don’t expect Tex to go all Milton Bradly on us, but Jesus, perhaps with a little more heart and admiration for his own performance and team winning percentage Tex would be putting up better numbers.

By northbeach Scott

June 18, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

BravesFanInRockies Well supported argument at 11:30am regarding Frenchy’s poor strike zone recognition. Seems that there are several issues with Frenchy 1)he seems to be unable to recognize pitches (velocity, direction, pitch type, etc.) 2)he does not seem to have a plan each at bat that depends upon the context of the game, pitcher, base runners, etc. 3) Per Braveheart his mechanics are flawed. 4) Tries to do too much, because he has always been a hero and just cannot seem to “play within himself”

I do not think there is much question on the problem. The challenge is the why and the solution. Frenchy is definately hurt (his chronic ankle), but this is minor. I wonder if he is having vision problems or if he was rushed to the majors to quickly. Possibly he is either stupid or perhaps has a learning disability.

If to BFIR’s point that Frenchy swings early because he cannot recognize pitches, then it is critical that the Braves determine if this is resolvable. If it is not, then they would do well to trade him ASAP while he has some value.

My comment last night and to Supes’s point was comparing Andruw’s frustrating 2007 and 2008 seasons to Frenchy’s current season. Frenchy has gotten to the point, for me, that he almost spoils the game. He seems to be an almost guaranteed choke via K or DP in most clutch situations. Would almost rather have a kid in his place that would at least learn (i.e. Brandon Jones).

By Cody

June 18, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Lew there is a story about Soriano on the Braves website. Actually he is able to come off this weekend because he hadn’t pitched in like 8 days when he went on the DL to begin with. They retro-dated it.

By Carroll Rogers

June 18, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

New blog should be up shortly, denizens. enjoyed the thoughtful prose this morning about Frenchy from Braveheart, et al.

Not sure I’m going to lose much sleep on stockman vs. ridgway but I understand you guys needs things to chew on.

By Sammy

June 18, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

Carroll,

How about leading a campaign here in Atlanta and get Brian McCann along with Chipper starting in this years all star game. He absolutely deserves to start this year. As I hear it the Cub fans are stuffing ballots etc. I think Gwinnett County could put out the votes. Brian is currently in second place behind Soto in voting and leads him in every category for offensive numbers. Lets go Atlanta start voting !!!!!!!

By Bobby's Cox

June 18, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

I think the likelihood is very high that Francoeur will put together better seasons that what we’ve seen, even better than last season. He’s never going to walk 80-100 times a year but he’s got plenty of tools to be a very good player in his peak years. Shaun

I disagree. Not until Frenchy learns the concept of a strike zone, and when he acutally does, will the trade-off between an increasing defensive liability and an increasing offensive asset be worth it? I say no.

Frenchy looks like Barry Bonds in the outfield this year, but looks nothing like him at the plate. If he were half of Barry Bonds offensively, it would be worth it. I don’t see Frenchy getting there with that swing and lack of plate discipline.

By Sammy

June 18, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

Carroll,

How about leading a campaign here in Atlanta and get Brian McCann along with Chipper starting in this years all star game. He absolutely deserves to start this year. As I hear it the Cub fans are stuffing ballots etc. I think Gwinnett County could put out the votes. Brian is currently in second place behind Soto in voting and leads him in every category for offensive numbers. Lets go Atlanta start voting !!!!!!!

By Lew

June 18, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

Cody-Yeah, I figured the retro part, but didn’t think they would activate him until pain free for much more time than this. It actually makes no sense to activate him this soon. Thanks for the info on the article, Dude.

Someone mentioned earlier that trading Campillo would be a bad move. I agree, but who in their right mind would trade a player with a 2.17 ERA as a starter AND reliever and a 5-1 K to BB rate, making ML minimum (or damn close to it)? Thaty makes much less sense than activating Rafael.

By Shaun

June 18, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

KC, slugging is never irrelevant unless you have a guy that can steal successfully almost every time he gets on first, I suppose.

Freel’s OBP over the last 365 days is .323. This from a 32-year-old with no power.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 18, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

scoots (1:15),

It is, now that you mention it. good point. Wonder if there’s more recent comparison video available and if he has changed anything mechanically since then. And how much.

By Big Easy

June 18, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

scoots, that is a 2-year-old analysis on Frenchy’s swing. He has changed it some, in that he does hold the bat more upright now (not so horizontal). I think he does still have a long wind-up, though, which really could be contributing to his struggles.

Hope he gets it together soon. We need him. Could be great some day.

~E~

By Bobby's Cox

June 18, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Cody

I hope you’re right about us showcasing our lefties. That makes sense, and if that’s the case, then there’s no use getting upset over the Stockman debacle.

By KC

June 18, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

Cody: I certainly hope you’re correct about showcasing the lefties. It’s the only explanation that makes a lick of sense. We’ll see.

Efrim: I think my point stands. I was responding to the statement that a .376 slugging% is never acceptable for an everyday player.

I just want to know if that means Brock an Coleman’s best seasons were “unacceptable”. Is Ichiro’s performance unacceptable?

For a non-base stealer, I would agree that this kind of slugging% doesn’t cut it. But for a true leadoff hitter… they’re job is to get on base. Period. Because these are players that can put themselves in scoring position once they reach base, or score/advance on certain hits that other baserunners could not.

They get they total bases as much with their legs as they do with their bats. That’s my only point.

By TXDawg

June 18, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Hey Carrol, we got some things in common. First letter of hospitals where born: Parkland in Dallas for you and Piedmont in Atlanta for me. You’re living in the city where I’m from and I’m living in the city where you’re from (okay that one is kind of a reverse commonality).

Anyway, I’ll be at the Ballpark in Arlington (right up 360 from me) cheering on those BRAVOS!! Look for the cheers from the lower left field section (waiting on Chipper and the gang to land a few balls out there)!!

By KC

June 18, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

Shaun: I conceded that Freel isn’t having a great season so far, although he is hitting .298. I’m judging him largely on his total body of work over the past 5 years.

And my suggestion was that he be used in some sort of platoon with Blanco, with Freel hitting primarily against lefties.

Against left-handed pitchers, Freel is hitting .339 with a .388 OBP.

Opposing lefties has been a major weakness this season, so I would love to have Freel leading off against lefties.

By TennesseePaul

June 18, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

Braveheart: I’d agree that Francoeur’s issues might stem from a mechanical flaw more than anything else. He can still learn from Chipper about preparing for a game, but I don’t expect that to resolve all his issues.

KC: Ridgway would be a far better choice to demote. That guy stinks. Considering he is a Lefty, and Gonzo is a lefty, and Ridgway is a sucky lefty, it’d make sense to demote the guy that stinks and is a redundancy than to demote a guy who succeeds.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 18, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Burrell’s probably a better player. His career line: .260/.379/.489. Frenchy is .276/.316/.456.

Frenchy’s K:BB ratio is 4:1; Burrell’s is 1.6:1.

2005 was the only season the Frenchy surpassed Burrell’s career OPS line. I’m not sure he’ll get a lot better than he was last season. He is cheap, to be sure. And can throw.

By Shaun

June 18, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

KC, Ichiro’s career slugging is .433. And the M’s rank 14th in the league in slugging. So Ichiro certainly isn’t helping in that department.

Also, Ichiro is 30 for 32 in stolen base attempts. And he’s a Gold Glove centerfielder who actually deserved his Gold Glove. Freel is not that kind of player. I don’t think you can justify playing Freel everyday in spite of his slugging, unlike Ichiro.

By ernesto

June 18, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

My point on the Burrell/Frenchy comparison is the “what kind of production can I expect”? aspect of them.

Both can be great. Both can stink. You never know what your’e going to get.

Not saying Frenchy’s career IS going to be that way, but it could happen, especially with the way he’s playing now.

By KC

June 18, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

Shaun: I never said Freel was Ichiro. Never. Of COURSE Freel is no Ichiro.

I was just giving you a hard time about your blanket statement that such a slugging % is “never acceptable for an everyday player”.

In some instances, it most definitely is acceptable. Ichiro is one of those instances. Those instances are not the norm. I’ll give you that.

Again, I want Freel to platoon with Blanco and play against lefties.

Against lefties, Freel is excellent: .339 AVG, .388 OBP, and you’ll like this Shaun… he’s even slugging .435 against lefties. =)

Conversely, Blanco has been very good against righties and horrible against lefties.

I think that platoon could be very productive at the top of the order.

By Shaun

June 18, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

KC, yeah, I think Brock, Coleman and Ichiro are the exceptions that prove the rule, as they say.

They were just so good at other things, namely stealing bases. And in Ichiro’s case, hitting and defense.

But Freel has neither the base-stealing ability of those guys nor the defensive skills of Ichiro. At one point he was relatively close, but at this point he is not.

By Shaun

June 18, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

KC, oh and I don’t think I ever said such a slugging percentage is never acceptable. That may have been Efrim. But I get what he was trying to say: It’s only acceptable in limited cases; when a player is very good at other things.

Okay, Freel is probably not worth discussing this much. And I’m sure you and other would agree.

By Shaun

June 18, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

ernesto, Burrell hasn’t stunk all too often, as least not as often as a lot of Phillies fans think.

His slugging has been over .455 every year except one. His on-base has been over .340 every year except one. A lot of people underrate him because of his strikeouts and his defense. But he gets on base quite a bit and he hits for power. He’s only had one bad year in the big leagues.

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