AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > June > 18 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USThe drama of Chipper and .400
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Three times in the last two games, Chipper Jones has come to the plate with his batting average at exactly .400. All three times he’s gone to first base unscathed - Monday night in Colorado, he hit a bases-loaded two run single, and last night in Texas he drew a pair of walks.
When he comes to the plate tonight in Texas for his first at-bat, he’ll be staring down the same deal - a chance that his batting average could fall under .400 for the first time since April 12.
And maybe the hype would be over, or come to a slow close (until it becomes clear he’s in the hunt for a batting title down the stretch). Or maybe Chipper gets a couple more hits and gets back up over .400.
Whatever happens, it feels a little dramatic to me, seeing that round number up there on the scoreboard.
As for him?
Chipper insisted that when he came up in that situation Monday, he wasn’t thinking about .400. And me being the stickler, I was like “OK, yeah, but weren’t you at least glad to get out of that game with your average above .400?”
“Yeah, but if we win 7-0 and I go under .400 I’m not going to be hanging my head about it,” Chipper said.
And then he added this, with a little more conviction in his voice:
“I’m not worried about hitting .400,” he said. “I want to get my run production numbers up, I want to get my extra base hit numbers up. Continuing to be a tough out is important to me, but I’m not going to consume myself with hitting .400. It’s a stretch to begin with, and I’m not going to kill myself trying to keep my average over .400.”
The ‘rents Larry and Lynn are here in Texas taking in these games, after making the nine-hour drive up from Chipper’s Double Dime ranch south of San Antonio. If anybody can will Chipper to keep his average up, it’s Mama and Papa Jones.
But if not, today might a good day to peruse the ol’ .400 stats one last time, just in case.
Looking up and down the chart on Baseball Almanac’s website of the all-time .400 hitters I sit here wondering what Chipper Jones’ name would look like up there with Ted Williams, Ty Cobb, Shoeless Joe Jackson and George Sisler.
Actually, no, I’m not really doing that. I can’t quite picture it happening, and Chipper can’t either, so I don’t think he would fault me that. What I’m really doing is chuckling at seeing a Rogers on that list. My cousin Rogers Hornsby? He hit .400 three times. The only other player to do that was Ty Cobb.
Since 1900, only eight men have hit .400. None since Ted Williams, of course, in 1941. Here are those eight guys who did it 13 times in all, in reverse chronological order.
Ted Williams .406 1941 Bill Terry .401 1930 Rogers Hornsby .403 1925 Rogers Hornsby .424 1924 Harry Heilmann .403 1923 George Sisler .420 1922 Rogers Hornsby .401 1922 Ty Cobb .401 1922 George Sisler .407 1920 Ty Cobb .409 1912 Ty Cobb .420 1911 Joe Jackson .408 1911 Nap Lajoie .426 1901
And you gotta love the quote the Almanac has from Ted Williams at the top of that chart.
“I hope somebody hits .400 soon,” Williams said. “Then people can start pestering that guy with questions about the last guy to hit .400.”
Well count me among those pestering now, and Chipper Jones as “that guy” who 67 years later still gives proper respect to the last man to do it.
“Ted Williams is probably the greatest hitter to ever play the game from a power and average standpoint,” Jones said. “It truly is amazing, and I’ve never been accused of thinking myself a Ted Williams clone. So I’ll just do the best I can and whatever happens, happens.”
He’ll be facing rookie right-hander Eric Hurley tonight, who is making only his second major league start for the Rangers. Chipper’s got no history against him. So we’ll just have to wait and see.
McCANNix for ALL-STAR: The latest voting has Brian McCann about 500,000 votes behind Cubs catcher Geovany Soto. We know about Cubs fans and their ballot boxes, but I want to know how fair that is by the voters. Let’s look at some numbers, shall we?
BA On-base Slugging 2B 3B HR RBI
McCann .310 .383 .573 22 1 13 42 Soto .283 .368 .517 19 1 11 42
The power numbers are awfully comparable but as far as reaching base, McCann has the clear edge. Kinda make you say hm?
And some tidbits: When Jair Jurrjens pitched 7 2/3 innings of shutout ball at Coors Field on Monday night, he became only the third rookie to shut out the Rockies at Coors Field through seven innings, according to Elias. He joins Florida’s Ricky Nolasco in 2006 and Philadelphia’s Matt Beech in 1997. Beech had to be especially impressive. No humidor in ‘97.
The Damian Moss reclamation project took a nice turn Monday in Richmond. The Aussie left-hander threw 6 1/3 shutout innings to take the win, allowing five hits and two walks, while striking out four. He’s 3-5 with a 4.25 ERA overall.
In case you hadn’t heard, Jason Heyward apparently hit a bomb of a homer in the Sally League All-Star game last night. Any and all incoming details welcome.
More from the lovely ballpark at Arlington in a while.
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Comments
By Reid in EAV
June 18, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
400th?
By Herschel Talker
June 18, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
Three words: It. Ain’t. Happening. Chipper is kicking a*, but he ain’t gonna finish above .350.
By H-Ram
June 18, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
Ms.Rogers
Is another Roster move coming up???
why Jeff Ridgeway still on this team..is mind boggling
By Renegator
June 18, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
2nd?
By Cody
June 18, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
Lew - the earlier post concerning Soriano possibly coming back on Saturday, were I gave you the source. the website I got it from was foxsports.com rumors page, but they got there infor from the ajc, so it is written in a story somewhere on the AJC website. I also believe that Soriano would be coming off to early but if he has no injury in the arm and its just sore he does need to stay on the DL. But if that is the case he may not pitch again, I believe alot of it may be in his head. Anyways getting him and Gonzo back would increase our wins by about 10 more just to have a stablized closer and set-up man. Now if we can just get 7 a night from the starters we wouldn’t have to worry about Homer Acosta and One-armed Boyer.
By brent a.
June 18, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
Carroll,
Please enjoy the food while in DFW. I think Atlanta has plenty of good restaurants, but there are a handful of places there in Dallas that I just haven’t been able to match here in Atlanta.
Go Braves!
By blake
June 18, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
Can we talk about that cow at the ted? Who thought that was a good idea?
By Gil in Mechanicsville
June 18, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Greetings Carroll, isn’t Holden Beach a great place to just relax?
Okay, I think the big club may have tapped out the pitching prospects from Richmond for now. Chuck James last two starts have been very good but I am not sure if he is ready for prime time as of yet.
Uh.. bad attitude or not, we could use Sidney down here on the farm… Tell Frank Wren to take a flyer on him….
By brent a.
June 18, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Here is a link to a video of Jason Heyward popping out in a high school game.
Heyward pops out
By Efrim
June 18, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this
Carlos, Atlanta: Braves CF of the future, Hernandez or Schafer?
Jim Callis: (1:59 PM ET ) I still think it’s Schafer. If he comes back and plays like he did last season, he’s a better all-around player than Hernandez and the PED suspension will be forgotten.
By Chopdawg
June 18, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
Here’s hoping HomeRun Heyward (hey how’s THAT for alliteration) can stay in Rome awhile longer, maybe unlease a few more bombs onto Home Run Hill! Speaking of Rome Braves: Carroll have you heard a Randy Winn trade rumor? Wonder who the Giants would want for him? Couldn’t be good news for former Rome Brave Brandon Jones, who always looked to me like a natural hitter…
CHOP
By Cody
June 18, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
Everyone keeps bruinging up big power bat names for the outfield, but I have found one that the Braves have a great chance at landing at a very resonable price.
Jose Guillen from KC is batting round .290 with 12 homers and 56 RBI’s. He is 32 and would be a great player in his prime to help the offense. He can play all three spots and would probably cost us Anderson and a B pitching prospect.
We keep B. Jones and Blanco and get rid of a player that was never going to be a mainstay here anyway. I think B. Jones is ready for the majors and will be a quality LF but if the Braves want to win now he can’t be our everyday LF right now.
I also think that Wren is waiting on Hampton to see if he can pitch FINALLY before he gets another starter. if he can pitch and Glavine comes back the rotation will be fine.
Morton will get his chances at starting every fifth day next year. Braves will just let him get his feet wet this year. Plus his innings are already adding up. For a player that hasen’t pitched over 150 innings ever that is not good.
JOJO he is already showing he is a #2, they say when the light comes on it makes pitching easy.
Oh yea I almost forgot I would send Chucky with Anderson to KC. Chuck is a AAAA pitcher at best two pitches work in the minors but you need three to throw off the major hitters. I look for him to be traded anyway.
Well, thats my rambling for the moment. What do you all think.
By ncscoots
June 18, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
Now if we can just get 7 a night from the starters
Do that, and you can start looking now for the three starters to replace Jurrjens, Reyes, and Morton sometime around Labor Day. Their arms will look like the stretchy guy’s from The Fantastic Four.
Absolutely GOT to have some innings from Glavine, Hampton, or a trade. Having those young kids pitch the Braves into the playoffs only to be useless when you get there, that’s not what I would call Plan A.
By ernesto
June 18, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
When in Dallas - Chuy’s! Or if you’re in Knox/Henderson there’s a great not too expensive greek place, Tziki’s, with excellent lamb, great calamari and the best Tziki sauce I’ve ever had. Or down the street Tei-Tei for sushi.
Couldn’t tell you much about Arlington…it’s the burbs, Olive Garden anyone?
By TURTSNAP
June 18, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this
A Traildust steak or Saltgrass steak sure would taste good right about now!
By 22oz
June 18, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this
Cody, Guillen just signed a ridiculous deal with the Royals. No thanks.
By A Well Known Blogger
June 18, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
2008 All-Star Campaign Ad (With apologies to Mac Computers.)
(Opens with McCann standing next to four cheerleaders [CL] who are holding up a banner with SOTO written on it)
McCann: (To the viewers, he says:) Hello, I’m Mac.
Soto: (Busts through the banner) And I’m Soto!
CL: Whoo-hoo!!
McCann: Whoa, Soto…what’s with the “Pep Rally”?
Soto: Well, you’re putting up such great numbers, and real popular with the other players, but what are we gonna do?
CL/Soto: FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT!
Soto: You know, you have that corrected eyesight with Lasik, and you’re super stable at the plate, and you handle the Braves’ pitching staff so well…Maybe that why you’re the number one catcher in the National League.
CL: Mac’s number one! Mac’s number one!
Soto: What? (Turns at looks at them somewhat sadly) No, no…You’re supposed to be cheering for me!
CL: Soto’s number two! Soto’s number two!
(Fade into 2008 All-Star Game logo. Under it are the words “Vote McCann”)
By ncscoots
June 18, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
Cody, uh, Guillen has played fewer than 20 games in CF in his long career. Don’t know that he “can play all three spots”.
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
BravesFanInRockies
Great research on Frenchy. You could always tell Frenchy starts his swing a little early, especially since he flails at the breaking stuff, but the analysis proves it. Frenchy gets out on that front foot early and doesn’t keep his weight back or balanced. He relys on getting in front of the ball, yet even on fastballs, like on the comparison to Wells, he still hits the ball deeper in the zone. Not good.
My question then becomes, if Frenchy is on the same level as softball players, then why is he on a major league roster? Frenchy jumpstarted his career with a strong throwing arm and power numbers early on. But with declining defensive skills, and evidence that his success depends largely at starting his swing early and hoping for a fastball, is it worth it keeping him on the roster?
At least get a base stealer in front of him and get him more fastballs to hit. Don’t hit him 6th. That would mean getting Anderson on the roster, playing him instead of Blanco, hitting him 7th, and Frenchy 8th. Yikes - so many changes to compensate for one player. Frenchy’s gotta go. I’m becoming less of a Frenchy fan every day. True he’s only 24, but 3+ seasons of playing everyday should be more than ample time for a player to adjust. And if that player is too stubborn to adjust, then that speaks for itself.
By Cecil34
June 18, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
Good quotes from Chipper, Carroll.
He knows what is important and realistically relevant, and batting .400 ain’t it.
If it were to happen, then it would solidify Chipper’s stature.
If it doesn’t then no harm done.
Like I said a couple of days ago, it really should not even be discussed at this point in the season, since the likelihood of him doing it is slim and none.
Think of all the outstanding ballplayers that have played the game in the last 67 years since 1941.
None of them have ever hit .400 for a season. None of them.
Sorta puts the scenario in the proper perspective.
By guillen trade?
June 18, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
jose guillen? you mean the guy who has only hit just recently played half way decently and is a notorious hothead/club house cancer/outfielder? and he cant play center well at all. and even if he is a great player in his prime, why would kc deal him for only anderson and B list prospect?
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the new blog, Ms. Rogers!
You’re SOOO right. McCann has a very clear edge. He’s the best hitting catcher in the NL…
HMMMMM???
SO unfair…That Cubby Catcher is getting way too much attention!
By DAP
June 18, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
herschel talker It. Ain’t. Happening. Chipper is kicking a, but he ain’t gonna finish above .350.*
i wouldnt bet on that. chipper could go 0-35 and be hitting .350. all he has to do is hit .300 from now until the end of the season, and he will hit .350. you dont think he can hit over .300 for 3 1/2 more months? i think he can.
By TennesseePaul
June 18, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
I still can’t believe McCann has a 1 in the triple column.
By gobravesin2008
June 18, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
Carroll, could you or DOB find out why the Braves never used Stockman? And maybe why they keep Ridgway and go with 4 left-handers in the bullpen? We’d appreciate it.
By BA
June 18, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
That mac commercial wasn’t funny in the first place. The 2:32 post was less funny than that. It must be SO funny that I don’t get it. Or someone wasted ten minutes typing that and thirty seconds of all our lives.
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
Having those young kids pitch the Braves into the playoffs only to be useless when you get there, that’s not what I would call Plan A. Scoots
Would it be so bad tho if the team destoyed their young arms and got a World Series ring? Some organizations (Marlins), think not. I mean, how often do you get a chance to win a WS? Should you win at all costs? Food for thought.
Hampton pitched today with no set-backs. 1 more ST simulation and then 2-3 rehab starts and he could be back. My fingers are crossed. He’s got a better shot at coming back than Glavine IMO.
By ncscoots
June 18, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
Yes, Francoeur has a slightly long swing, but he’s always had the hands to compensate. At least, until this year. I don’t think that’s the cornerstone of his problems.
Braveheart covered it pretty well on the last blog, I think, so I’d only add one thing. If his ankle IS truly FUBAR, it’s unlikely that he can make meaningful corrections in his mechanics while it is. Even great hitters (and Jeff isn’t) can’t hit without a solid base. All the plate discipline, and pitch recognition, and yada yada yada, in the world, won’t change that little factoid.
By BA
June 18, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
Bad news, gobravesin2008, she already dismissed your question as unimportant, despite the fact that twenty people asked that very question today. Apparently it’s commonplace for a MLB team to carry four lefthanded relievers.
By DAP
June 18, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
cody but what do we do with guillen’s contract? he’s making 12 mil this year and next year he will make 19mil. no way. any more “discoveries”?
By TennesseePaul
June 18, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
That’s not bad at all McCann… On pace to hit a ton of doubles (paced at 49) and about 29 HR.
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
10Paul—
Me neither…what’s even harder to believe is that braves.com has no replay of it…
By Graham
June 18, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this
TNPaul
That stat still makes me laugh, especially after watching it happen!
Part of the problem with McCann not getting votes is that people in Atlanta are not going to the games and voting there. Even though there may be 25k people there, I am sure that half of them don’t vote. I have been to two games this year and they have never pushed the voting like they do in other parks. They just don’t seem to promote the players like they used to.
By TexasBrave
June 18, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this
TennPaul are you amazed that McCann even has one or that he should have more?
By Efrim
June 18, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
Alex (Atlanta): Best arm in Braves system?
Jim Callis: (3:04 PM ET ) Probably Julio Teheran, who makes his much-awaited pro debut tonight in Danville.
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
BA—
Yeah…that 10 minutes should have been used for VOTING!
YOU DECIDE 2008!!
VOTE FOR MCCANN!!
By Carroll Rogers
June 18, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
well done, a well-known blogger!!!
saw that on espn.com about randy winn like you probably did, chopdawg. i haven’t heard that on the braves end, but i can tell you that i can see brandon jones being a guy they’d offer. something’s just a little off about the way that went down - with his call-up and whatnot - that doesn’t completely add up. but he’s been playing great. either way, win-win that he’s doing well.
i’ll see what i can do gobraves. but soriano is eligible to come off the DL on Saturday and bobby said yesterday that soriano would rest until it’s time to come off the DL, then pitch. so ridgway should be the guy going back in a few days and then this giant issue everybody is having will go away. i haven’t watched every outing Stockman had but i remember one of his first he had a hard time commanding the fastball and was throwing the curve for strikes, which seems backward. he also had two outings with two walks each. ridgway has none i think. (i have no idea if that has anything to do with anything, but i’m taking a stab anyway.)
also seems not to be using ridgway as a situational lefty, just a one-inning guy. but again all that’s just guessing. bobby doesn’t like to say negative things about players, even if it’s explaining a move like that. so i wouldn’t hold your breath too much.
my dining plans? my college roommate lives here and has a great tex-mex place picked out for tomorrow night.
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
10Paul—
If McCann continues at his current pace, he will SHATTER the record for most doubles by a ML catcher in a single season (42)! And 29 homers ain’t bad for a catcher, either…
By Carroll Rogers
June 18, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul. i know. I got a huge kick out of putting that one triple in there too. i bet he has one belly flop to soto’s zero too!
By DAP
June 18, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
phill down 7-2, and it looks like we’ll have a chance to gain a game on them tonight. lets do it.
By Iron Labrum
June 18, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
McCannix… ;) Thanks CR you made my day….and don’t worry McF, I’ve got my 25 votes in.
By bravesfan
June 18, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
Chipper Jones is 5 for his last 24 with only 1 XBH.
By Coach Smith
June 18, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
Renegator
To carry this over…you said “the Phillies are a far superior team than the Braves”
really? compare their rotations…even with the injuries the Braves’ rotation is better
Hamels and Huddy are a was at the top
JJ is better than anything else they have, so is Campillio, and JOJO, this ADVANTAGE is even more glaring if Glavine and Hampton come back
The Braves have the advantange at Catcher, 3b,
1st base is a wash b/c Tex has a better BA, strikes out less, and will HRs,
right now SS is a wash (Escobar and Rollins tied in HRs, Escobar has more RBIs and higher BA)
You can give the Phillies a nod at the outfield spots and 2nd base..
So the Braves have a better rotation, and the advantage or wash at 4 everyday spots
The Phillies pen is better now but if Gonzo pitches well and Soriano comes back to form that will not be and advantage anymore…
It is just a GROSS OVERESTIMATION of the Phillies to say they are far superior
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
Ms. Rogers—
Yeah, I don’t think Soto’s triple was as exciting. It musta been kinda boring, ‘cause the Cubs’ website doesn’t have a replay of––wait…
No, really…McCann’s triple was classic! When the season is all over, that’s gotta be in the Top Five Greatest Moments of 2008 (as number one, unless they make the playoffs).
(Thanks, BTW!)
Great job, Iron Labrum!
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 18, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
ncscoots, you must be about what? 20-25. Apparently.
Back in the day when pitchers were expected to start and finish every start, it was the norm. As recently as 1993, Leo Mazzone utilized the four man rotation. Seven and eight innings per start should be the expectation, not the exception.
Madduz, Glavine , Smoltz and Avery averaged 35.5 starts, 244 innings( seven per game) and pitch count limits were nonexistent for the Braves in 1993.
Hell, back in the 1970’s and 80’s 160-pitch complete games were normal.
Todays starting pitchers simply do not throw enough. Their arms are not conditioned for even 130-140 pitches per start. Which is why so many of them keep getting hurt more and more.
The problem now is, we have 100 pitch count limits, batters know this and exploit it by taking pitches and working the count. They stand in the batters box and foul off pitch after pitch, driving the pitch count up. This is why we keep seeing pitchers taken out of the game in the fifth and sixth inning.
Managers are forced to use the bullpen more and more, watering down the quality of the pitcher on the mound not to mention wearing the bullpen down. Money and multimillion dollar contracts dictates strategy now, not the manager.
Does Leo Mazzone agree with pitch counts? Not exactly, evidencing how split older coaches remain toward using pitch counts at all. “I don’t want to see them,” says the most successful pitching coach of his generation. “My eyes are gonna tell me more than any (expletive) number.”
You see, some of us have been around for quit some time and remember what the game of baseball used to be and believe you me, it’s not the same game anymore.
By Shamus Thacker
June 18, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
Quote by: Bobby’s Cox Hampton pitched today with no set-backs. 1 more ST simulation and then 2-3 rehab starts and he could be back. My fingers are crossed. He’s got a better shot at coming back than Glavine IMO.
But less of a shot than the legend with the freezer burnt head, IMO…
By Jim Hertel
June 18, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
Does anyone have a clue or insight as to why BC doesn’t like Stockman? I think he has the potential to be much more valuable to the Braves than Ridgeway, Ring, or Carlisle. Yet, he has never been given the chance.
By Shamus Thacker
June 18, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
If Hammy comes back before September [to dangle the free agent carrot, of course] I’ll strip butt nekkid and play the banjo version of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony on the courthouse steps.
By Big Easy
June 18, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith, I would agree that the Braves are as good a team (or perhaps better, even) than the Phillies. However, the Phillies are playing better ball right now. Injuries or not, if the Braves want to stay in this thing, they have to get clutch hits, avoid meltdowns, and field cleanly. The Phillies do this on a regular basis. The Braves are not doing it enough. Pitching and timely hitting. Can’t be more than .500 without both.
~E~
By Braveheart
June 18, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox, Francoeur’s defensive performance this year out there is much worse than in 2005 and 2007 when he was great for a rightfielder or 2006 when he was average for a rightfielder. I don’t think Francoeur is in sharp decline in right though. I think he is just playing hurt, which has restricted his range.
It reminds me of Paul Oneill’s constant leg troubles. Oneill would start every season fresh as a daisy but every July or August, he’d bang into a wall or twist his legs up sliding and his range would be severely cut down in the postseason as compared to early in the season.
Remember the Pettitte/Smoltz pitching duel in Game 5 of 1996? Remember the Luis Polonia flyball in the bottom of the 9th that would have won the game? Would have been an easy out if Oneill was healthy out there. But he wasn’t and the ball almost dropped in for a game winning extra base hit. At the last second, Oneill lunged with his glove and basically did a look what I found catch. Right now, Francoeur out in right reminds me of how Oneill looked on hobbled legs.
Oneill’s leg troubles didn’t just hurt him defensively either. He often set the world on fire for the first few months every season. Then he would hurt his legs and his average often started slipping down to .300 because, as Scoots said, the legs are your base as a hitter.
And in case you were wondering, Oneill hit .252 with a .306 OBP and a .414 SLG when he was 25 years old. I’m guessing you would have given up on Oneill as well when he was a year older than Francoeur.
Oneill had some similar pressures on him at that age, being the local Ohio boy playing for the hometown team. Pinella kept trying to make him into the hitter that he wasn’t. Pinella thought it to be a waste for a 6’4”, 225 hitter to not be a pure power hitter. So Lou was hellbent on changing him into one. It resulted in Oneill’s entire twenties being wasted butting heads with a manager trying to make him the hitter he wasn’t. With a change of scenery and being left alone to be the hitter he naturally was, he became an All Star.
Maybe Francoeur needs that change of scenery as well so that he can be allowed to be the hitter he naturally is. Would be a shame though if he ends up starring someplace else because people here wouldn’t accept him for what he is instead of what they wanted him to be.
By Balls of Steel
June 18, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
Well done, Iron Labia!
By Renegator
June 18, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith
I guess we’ll have to agree to disagree because I’m not coming back off my statement that the Phillies are a much better team than the Braves right now.
By ncscoots
June 18, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this
believe you me, it’s not the same game anymore.
Kinda my point, Coach. Thanks for concurring.
As far as “back in the day”, I’m pretty sure I was actually playing the game when you were still spitting up. And at a little higher level than your Little League.
Condescension can be a useful verbal and written tool, when used correctly and against the appropriate parties. You, however, tend to wield it as an axe, rather than as a scalpel, LOL. Might want to refine the approach. :-)
By BravesFanInRockies
June 18, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
Coach,
I see a couple of obvious reasons teams rely on pitch counts. First, they want to preserve younger arms. Dusty Baker didn’t believe in pitch counts and he destroyed Kerry Wood and Mark Prior by letting them throw 130+ pitches per start when they were in their early 20s. He’ll do the same with Volquez, Cueto and Baily IMO.
Next, the strike zone is smaller than it used to be. The “high strike” is now at the belt. By shutting down the strike zone, pitchers have to work harder to hit the target. They throw a number of pitches that are called balls that should be strikes. Limiting pitchers to 100 or so reduces the stress on their arms.
I’d love to see the real strike zone enforced. The game would move more quickly. Until MLB can coerce the umpires into doing their jobs, we’re almost certainly stuck with pitch counts — or dead-armed hurlers in their mid-20s.
By BlackberryCobbler
June 18, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
McCann and Soto may have similar numbers offensively, but McCann fails to impress defensively. Soto also plays for a team that’s not farting around like the Braves. He’s a damn good catcher on a daemn good team. He deserves to be the leading vote getter and #1 C.
By Chop Chop
June 18, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
I’m voting for Soto a bunnch of times just to shut McFann up.
I just cann’t stannd her sycophanncy toward that mann.
Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrgh!
I’ve got the disease nnow.
By KC
June 18, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
Coach Smith: “It is just a GROSS OVERESTIMATION of the Phillies to say they are far superior”
Agreed.
Except for the performance of Brett Myers, everything has pretty much gone the Phillies way this year.
They haven’t had anywhere near the injury trouble the Braves have had… even with their older players.
I think there’s a significant chance that their middle relief and their rotation (after Hamels) won’t perform quite as well in the second half as they have thus far.
That said, they are a very good team. But… pending the closer’s role getting nailed down, the Braves have all the ingredients to make a run at the Phillies.
The Braves are a better offensive team than what they’ve shown. I would look for better in the second half from the lineup they already have. And I suspect Wren will be adding a bat or two before the deadline.
But even if the Braves are nothing more than merely above average offensively the rest of the season, I think they are poised to start winning games the old-fashioned Atlanta Braves way… great pitching and just enough hitting.
Some of you have cautioned that the likes of Campillo, Reyes, and Morton may be fools gold, and that we haven’t seen enough of them yet.
I will grant you that. We don’t know yet if they can keep this up. Time will tell.
But I feel pretty good about this group, and we still have a pretty good shot, I believe, of getting Hampton and/or Glavine back.
If Gonzo can nail down the closer’s role, the bullpen should be solid. That (closer) is the only major ingredient missing from this team right now.
I think there’s a lot more ability on the Atlanta roster than many people realize.
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
I say that Shamus only because Glavine’s injury does not look good (small tear in flexor tendon). Add that to the fact that he’s 42 and his age does not bode well for a injury that, according to Frank Wren, “is not a surgical repair,” and, “the only thing that will repair it is time”.
From what i’ve read, a tear in the flexor tendon takes about 2 months of rest plus a 3rd month before the tendon can be used with any force, not 1 month that the braves have prognosticated (I assume that 1 month is more like 2-3 weeks, with a week or 2 of rehab).
This year, the braves were wrong with Smoltz, took their time on revealing injuries to Moylan, weren’t careful enough with Soriano, are rushing Gonzo, told Dr. Andrews not to speak to media about what he found in Smoltz’s shoulder, etc. The list goes on and on. I’m therefor skeptcial of Glavine’s timetable and what I read and hear from management that obviously is trying to keep fans motivated, but we’ll see.
By Salty
June 18, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
You see, some of us have been around for quite some time and remember what the game of baseball used to be and believe you me, it’s not the same game anymore.
Bash Scoots if you want (and you did), but your response is a disconnect from what he said, although you certainly held onto your friggin’ arrogance.
He, I, and plenty others remember the ‘old days’; it’s irrelevant. The pitchers aren’t being conditioned to perform like they did in the ‘70’s. In truth, you countered your own argument when you said, “…it’s not the same game anymore.”
By cabravesfan
June 18, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
BlackberryCobbler Since when did defensive stats come in to play for an all-star game? Or team records for that matter? Soto is leading because he plays in Chicago and their fans are stuffing the ballots (as Braves fans should be for Mac) for him. Plain and simple. No one is saying Soto isn’t worthy- Mac is just better
By rupert
June 18, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
i think chipper’s power numbers will all go up once it becomes clear to him that he wont hit .400. In his heart he knows he wont but you can see in some of his answers that he cares about it, who wouldnt? but my point is that once that pressure is off he will be free and easy at the plate, meaning maybe a few less singles but a lot more homers, doubles, and rbi’s
winn is not the answer out there, he is a little old for my taste,much rather see them get a bay or nady, closer to their primes, plus he doesn’t poscess the power or run producing elements that those guys do, maybe a deal with b jones, james, and one of the a-ball pitchers
By ncscoots
June 18, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
Salty, easy, man, LOL. It’s just Coach being Coach, I wouldn’t have it any other way. HA!
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 18, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
Um, YES. the Phillies are the best team.
Yes, they have a proven close in Brad Lidge. The Braves have what?
The Phillies have Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino leading off, powering the running game and fueling the power bats of Ryan Howard, Chase Utley and Pat Burrell.
The Braves running game is simply non-existent, period. Teixeira and Francoeur have both been a disappointment thus far for the Braves.
Hamels, Moyer, Kendrick, Myers and Eaton have not missed one single start. In fact the Phillies have used only five starters, the fewest in the major leagues.
The Braves have burned through nine starters and when and if Hampton takes the mound, that number will jump to ten.
I’m not going to get into the Phillies bench or bullpen, both of which have been far more productive than the Braves.
Suffice to say, the Phillies are by far the superior team. Which is why they are the defending division champs, in first place and their way to a second straight playoff appearance.
By Efrim
June 18, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
Julio Teheran’s debut tonight for Rookie League Danville at 7:00 PM EST.
By BlackberryCobbler
June 18, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this
cabravesfan I was trying to provide LOGIC as to why Soto should be there over McCann. Based on performance, there is no evidence that McCann is better. He’s just not. I agree, it’s a popularity contest- always has been.
By Cecil34
June 18, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
Coach(LGB2008)
Great 3:37 post - agree with every word.
You have identified the 800 lb. elephant in the room that no one wants to acknowledge, when it comes to the state of major league pitching today.
And the watering-down also applies to expansion when it comes to quality arms. There are only so many good arms in the world.
No wonder hitting stats have been soaring in the past 15-18 years.
Pitch counts - good God, the only thing calling the shots now is the almighty dollar.
This is what the grand old game has been reduced to.
No wonder those 1948 uni’s last Thursday made me pine for the old days.
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
Braveheart
You compare an older O’Neil to a younger frenchy in terms of defense. At least O’Neil would attempt to dive or lunge at a ball close to his feet. Francoeur? Haven’t see it yet this year in numerous opportunities. And that Luis Polonia example, O’Neil caught the ball right? Where was frenchy this weekend on that Kotchman HR to right in Anaheim? I’d bet Blanco, B. Jones, Anderson, Kotsay, Freel, heck even Adam Dunn get to that ball in time to make an attempt at it before it lands in the 1st row of a 3.5 foot wall.
In terms of the younger O’Neil. Yeah, i’m down on trading Frenchy. No problem here. Let him blossom 10 years from now when he’s 34. That’s how long it took O’Neil to get to a 100 RBI season. Waiting 6 more years for Frenchy to hit .300 (O’Neil was 30) and get his SLG at a consistant level over 4-5 seasons is still too long to wait, AND is especially too long a wait for a player that wants to get paid as much as Frenchy does. No thanks.
I doubt Frenchy’s legs are hurting him THAT much. Truth is, Frenchy runs like an older Vladimar Guerrero at the ripe age of 24. Did so last year too, but the added muscle made him slower this year and Frenchy doesn’t have the heart or athletic coordination to dive or leap the wall. By the way, his arm looks less accurate this year too.
By cabravesfan
June 18, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
Blackberry did you check the stats? Mac has a higher average, OBS, OPS, More doubles, HRs, equal RBI…that looks like evidence to me…
By Braveheart
June 18, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
The Cubs fan base is not the only reason Soto is getting all of those votes. The extra push has to be coming from Japan. The Cubs have that Dome guy and, to a lesser extent, Alfonso Soriano, who was a Japanese minor leaguer at one time.
I mean why exactly does Soriano always get so many votes? He’s good but not that good. Could be the fantasy leaguers love him for his stats but I think his Japanese and Dominican roots combined with playing for big market teams with passionate fan bases gives him that extra push.
Having a Japanese star brings more voters to the Cubs like it does the Bosox and Yanks. Look at the AL voting. The Red Sox and Yanks have 7 starters for the All Star game. They have passionate fan bases but they also have huge Japanese stars on their team. One of the two guys not a Yankee or a Red Sox that is going to be a starter is Ichiro. It’s not a coincidence that he happens to be Japanese.
The teams with Japanese stars have a huge advantage when it comes to All Star voting because (1) the reason they can afford a Japanese player is because they already have a huge passionate fan base and (2) getting a Japanese star on your team means the entire country watches your games and supports your players.
By GSU-Lee
June 18, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
Carroll, Any idea who is going down for Gonzo to come back?
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 18, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
Salty, make an intelligent argument. Attacking me personally will get you nowhere fast.
By ncscoots
June 18, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
Well, Cecil, the major constant in baseball is its constant change.
Would you have MLB outlaw strings and webbing from gloves? Didn’t used to have them. Would you raise the mound six inches, enlarge the ballparks, not have ballplayers who are 6’4” 240 pounds? All different from the past. How about bunting, DPs, other innovations in play? Weren’t always around. All these things have “reduced” the game to what it is today.
Not played the same? Agreed. But it’s still the same game, unreduced: you throw it, you catch it, you hit it. Grand, still.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 18, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
Thanks, ncscoots. I correctly blew your 2:22 post right out of the water.
Hey, do me and the rest of the blog a favor will you please. Argue the subject instead of making inane personal attacks. In other words, show me some baseball savvy.
By ncscoots
June 18, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
In other words, show me some baseball savvy.
Let me know when you think you’ll be able to recognize it.
Coach, going down this road is a bad idea. Why not just let it go?
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
Maybe Francoeur needs that change of scenery as well so that he can be allowed to be the hitter he naturally is. Would be a shame though if he ends up starring someplace else because people here wouldn’t accept him for what he is instead of what they wanted him to be.
BTW Braveheart, it wasn’t the fans that told Frenchy to add 20+ pounds over the winter. The braves addressed a lack of power they were losing with AJ by trading prospects for Tex. It was Frenchy that took matters into his own hands by trying to increase his power numbers and the moved back-fired big time.
It was also Frenchy that declined the offer the braves gave to him last year. I have no doubt that Frenchy wants to put up numbers for his own monetary good. The fans, i assume, wanted Frenchy to put up numbers similar to his 1st 2 seasons while showing a little bit of progression. But he’s not only regressed at the plate, he’s regressed substantially on the field, injury or not.
We’ve made a lot of fun out of Chipper’s comments at the beginning of the year: “Lose an Andruw, gain an Andruw.” But those words say more than to make fun at a long-time brave favorite. Andruw’s approach, or lack thereof, was a detriment to the team and ultimately ran him out of town without regret. That was the basis of Chipper making that comment (Frenchy knew before this season started he had to hit balls to right and not hit bombs to left, yet he was so determined to show his power and continues to do so). With AJ’s stubborness to adjust, we weren’t that sad to see him go were we? The way Frenchy’s playing, will we be that sad to see him go? Lose an Andruw, gain an Andruw for sure. Chipper was hitting 1.000 out of the gate with that comment.
If it really takes him as long as it did O’Neil, then sayonara Frenchy. Have fun wherever your travels take you.
By Braveheart
June 18, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox, fine, we’ll make you happy and put Prado at second and have an outfield of Blanco, Anderson and Freel. It would be a ton of fun watching the team struggle to win 50 games with those scrappy smallball scrubs playing. You also seemed to intentionally and conveniently misunderstand many of the points about the Oneill comparison. Don’t be like Coach and look for simple answers. You’re better than that.
By Ed Glennon
June 18, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this
There are two duds in our lineup: Tex and Frenchy. Funny both think they are underpaid. We have three clutch hitters - all underpaid Chipper, McCann and Escobar. Why does overpaid Tex hit ahead of McCann? He must be filling the Andruw Jones role. Last year I would hope some dunny would walk Andruw and now I feel the same way about Tex. Chipper should have 70 runs scored by now. He probably thins Andruw is still hitting behind him.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 18, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
Dear God help me, ncscoots your 4:44 post is about incorrect as it can get. You stated: How about bunting, DPs, other innovations in play? Weren’t always around.
Don’t take my word for it, read this from Wikipedia.
The bunt was introduced into the game by Dickey Pearce of the Brooklyn Atlantics in 1866, but was not common until the 1880s, and was not an accepted part of baseball strategy until the 20th century. The bunt has enjoyed periodic waves of acceptance and use throughout baseball history, coinciding with the periodic shifts of dominance between pitching and hitting over the decades.
During periods of pitching dominance, for example during the dead-ball era or the 1960s, bunting was an important offensive weapon. Conversely, during periods of hitting dominance, for example the 1990s and 2000s, the value of the bunt has often been questioned. Recently, teams following the “Moneyball” school of baseball thought (such as the Oakland Athletics and the 2004-2005 Los Angeles Dodgers) have shown the tendency to shun the sacrifice bunt almost entirely. However, a simple canvass of the 2002-2005 World Series champions (the 2002 Anaheim Angels acting as the primary “small ball” trendsetter for the 2000s) reveals that each team used bunting frequently in order to overcome strictly power hitting teams. Nevertheless, the role of the bunt in baseball strategy is one of the perennial topics of discussion for baseball fans.
As far as the double play goes, it’s been around since the game of baseball was invented.
And no it’s not the same game, the designated hitter didn’t make it’s advent into baseball until 1973. The A.L has it, the N.L. doesn’t. The height of the mound was lowered in 1969 from 15 to 10 inches.
ncscoots, if you were as old as me, you would know these facts of the game.
By Dack Jerrick
June 18, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this
Talked to a retired ML scout who worked in baseball for over forty years. He told me casually that he had never seen or heard tell of a player at the major league who has so may 0-2 and 1-2 counts as Francouer. He says JF is the most undisciplined hitter he can remember. No team throws him strikes because they know he will swing at balls off the plate. He says “why should they throw him strikes”?
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop—
That won’t shut me up. Uh…That’ll actually make me louder…
Just thought I’d warnn you.
YOU DECIDE 2008!!
VOTE FOR MCCANN!!
By Norton is hitting .225
June 18, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
Did you hear?
GREG NORTON IS HITTING .225
Why did we get this guy?
By kirknga
June 18, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
I’d rather have Guillen with 291 11 HR’s and 59 RBI’s than Winn who has 298/5/27. To me, Brandon Jones could produce numbers like Winn’s so why make the trade for Winn?
Guillen costs $4 million more and is two years younger. He is slugging and driving in runs on a bad team, Winn is not on also on a bad team. Winn does have better speed than Guillen or Jones.
The Braves need to trade for a run producing bat, and given that there’s not much difference in batting averages, Guillen is obviously the better fit in terms of need.
As of right now, the Philies are the better team. You are what you record says you are. Their starters, though not as talented as the Braves starters on paper, have pitched more innings than any other staff. They also, more times than not, manage to give the team a chance to win.
But the major reason why the Philies are a better team than the Braves(injuries aside), is that they are clutch in close and late innings both in terms of offense and pen(which is not overworked).
By KC
June 18, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
Coach: You are certainly correct that the Phillies have a better team right now.
However, there was a stretch of games dating back to the series in Milwaukee last month - through the Cubs series, in which the bullpen was responsible for 8 or the Braves 12 losses.
I think that was almost entirely due to the lack of a closer. Not only has not having a closer hurt us in the 9th… it’s forced other relievers to labor in roles they’re not cut out for.
Despite losing Smoltz and Moylan for the season, I am absolutely convinced that had Soriano been healthy over the last month, we would be virtually tied with the Phillies right now.
Of those 8 games the bullpen blew over that stretch before the Anaheim series… if we had won 6 of them, we’re pretty much tied right now with Phili in the east.
My point is this:
Despite all of the other hard luck, we’ve been one piece away (a closer) from being right there with the Phillies.
That’s very good news for the Braves, assuming they can plug the hole in the 9th inning with Gonzo’s return. Granted, that may be assuming a lot, but if Gonzalez is up to the task… the Braves are poised to make a run.
By Lew
June 18, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this
Cody-I hear you Dude. However, I’m going to (at least for the time being) put Soriano in the same category as Hampton and Chuck James (Gonzo is a different case-he’s rehabbed). What we get when we get it will determine what their worth has been for the season-or not.
What I’m not going to do is to hold my breath and turn Deep Purple (cheap rock and roll reference-guess what I’ve been listening to) waiting for Hampton to finally pitch or Soriano to decide there’s nothing wrong and his biorhythm, horoscope or Psychic Hotline counselor says the stars are aligned in the House Of The Mongoose with The Walrus ascending and that he’s able to play.
Quite honestly, it’s sounding suspiciously like Hampton’s original injury and what went on this year with Moylan. We keep hearing there’s either:
A. Nothing wrong according to the MRI or
B. We think rest will take care of it and then
C. They decide the Better Resolution MRI (which for the life of me I can’t figure why they don’t do in the first place) showed there’s really some kind of damage and
D. They need surgery four months after they could have had it and be rehabbing and on the road to recovery.
Somehow, their track record in deciding the correct form of action has been somewhat lacking in a few instances (Chuck might be another). I am not inspired to the point of optimism given these past examples. I’ll reserve judgment until they actually pitch. Best not to count unhatched Hamptons.
By Chop Chop as "McSoto"
June 18, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this
McFann©,
It’s on.
By kirknga
June 18, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox, I think you might have to accept that some people are going to not agree with you about aggressive baseball.
I’m not one of them, but there have been more than one debate popping up about this over the past few blogs.
Some will insist on focusing reducing aggressiveness to bunting, stealing, and “giving up outs”. This isn’t true of course, but that’s how they play it.
I think the essential problem is that what the Braves are currently doing works as far as putting up aggregate stats, but in game situations such as expanding a lead or getting that 1-2 runs to win late, what the Braves are doing is not working.
So some of us think that they need to try something different. It isn’t about bunting as much as it is about , um say driving the ball into a gap or down a line with the bases loaded rather than continuing to swing for the homerun and making yet another warning track out.
By McBengie©
June 18, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this
(Apologies to McFann)
McCann should indeed be ahead of Soto in the all-star balloting for catcher.
However, objectively, I think Bengie Molina should be the all-star starting catcher.
His numbers are similar to McCann’s (but a little lower in terms of power):
BA=.315, OBP=.340, Slug=.466, 2B=17, 3B=0, HR=6, and RBI=44
He has a weaker offensive supporting cast, and has been playing hurt all year.
But where he really shines is in his handling of the young Giants pitching staff.
Unfortunately, he may not even make the all-star team.
The all star voting is just a demented popularity contest. Players should be chosen by the players, or God forbid, the writers.
By Kentavo
June 18, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this
Francouer will wind up in Boston. That’s where his family is really from.
By Chop Chop
June 18, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this
Lew,
An unhatched Hampton would eventually strain its peck while breaking out of its shell.
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the kind words at the end of that last post Braveheart.
I didn’t misunderstand your post. I saw point, that O’Neil started every season fresh and daisy but his legs would then hinder him at the plate. My point Braveheart is that it’s not Frenchy’s legs. Not even in ST though did Fenchy look that fast in RF. I remember thinking, “is the field bigger or are Frenchy’s legs not in shape yet?” AND, his lack of plate discipline is more of the same from the guy, no improvements there.
And just like Lou wanted O’Neil to be a power hitter, Frenchy seems to be taking it upon himself without pressures from coaches or teammates(see my last post).
Since you brought it up, great, lets put Prado (higher SLG than frenchy) at 2b and watch him hit .290+ with 35+ doubles. Lets move KJ to left (higher SLG than Frenchy) trade frenchy for giles, dunn, bay, (all higher SLG than Frenchy) or whoever. Lets try B. Jones in RF and await Schaffer in center. B. Jones couldn’t do worse and is younger. Does that spell for more upside? I’m all down for trying Anderson in center over Blanco and batting 8th (can’t have both in the lineup at the same time). Hey, at least platoon Frenchy with Anderson or Kotsay when he’s ready. Our OF could use a shakeup. Someone needs to send Frenchy a message. I doubt our offense, or defense would be worse with any of those scenarios.
BTW, i’ve never liked freel or dunn or giles, and the randy winn talks are ridiculous. In the end, i just want frenchy to change his approach, but time is running out on my watch. I saw your points Braveheart, i hope you can see mine. I don’t want to wait till frenchy’s 30 like O’Neil. I hope you can see that. And I don’t think it’s his ankle. From the past videos and from mere recollection, it doesn’t look like much has changed in terms of his swing. That’s my point.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 18, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this
Lew, I absolutely agree with you.
Soriano tells the Braves in spring training, my elbow hurts. They put him on the D.L. and he misses 46 games. Soriano comes off the D.L. and makes five appearances, he tells the Braves, my elbow still hurts. They put him back on the D.L.
Am I missing something too? The Braves have played 72 games. Soriano has pitched in just nine of them.
By Lew
June 18, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this
ChopChop-Just so, Dude. Just so.
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this
McBengie©—
Hmm…Copying my copyrighted moniker? I cann accept you apology, I s’pose.
I have felt for quite some time that Molina and McCann should be the two catchers in the All-Star Game. Either one of them could start, and it would be fine with me.
But Soto? Give me a freakin’ break! Even if they wanted three catchers, one of them should be him. If there were three, I’d say McCann, Molina, and Martin all the way!
Chop Chop er…“McGrove”—
Are you serious? Fine. Cut off your nose to spite your face…Or vote for the Cubby Catcher to spite McFann…
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
Braveheart—
You are sooo right! It’s the Japanese!! At least none of them play third…
Chop Chop—
YOU DECIDE 2008!!
VOTE FOR MCCANN!!!!
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this
kirknga
I agree with your post entirely, but, no where did i say anything about small-ball in any of this week’s blogs. That was Braveheart bringing up past arguments (as criticism) where I wanted to see it ONLY to get hitters like Francoeur to refocus at the plate, and even then those arguments were relating to situational play and late inning 1-run losses.
Scoots & I distinguished small-ball from fundamentals yesterday. Go back and check it out. This team isn’t built for small-ball, and the effects of such strategy are debatable anyway so why try it? If Anderson gets another shot with this team, then there’s 1 guy i’d like to see attempt to swipe bases regularly. But the current team has no one that can do such.
My only other “small ball” argument earlier this year was to give Prado more time at 2b, and that was when KJ was struggling. How people think that’s a small ball strategy i have no idea. My only reasoning for that was that prado has a consistant bat and would fit in an inconsistant lineup. I think prado would be an extra bases (doubles, triples) machine. Unfortunately, he got hurt, and unfortunately still, this lineup remains inconsistant while hitters that are supposed to provide the strategy of extra bases are struggling when situation calls for it.
This blog, like our team, is in love with the SLG stat and has lost a sense of fundamental baseball over the years. I would like to see a little more passion and aggressiveness in our players. Maybe that’s why i’ve transitioned from wanting veterans on this team to wanting see MLB ready position player rookies get a shot. Maybe the payroll situation had to do with that too.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 18, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this
I just read an article in the San Francisco Chronicle where it rumored that the Braves are interested in the Giants Randy Winn.
By Joe
June 18, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
the Braves need to trade Frenchy for Jason Bay, not a slap hitter like Randy Winn
By McMcCain©
June 18, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
I urge you all to vote for me 25 times for president.
Then change your e-mail address and vote for me 25 more times.
Please?
By Choker man
June 18, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
This Stat drives me crazy GIDP Atl 67 PHl 43.
That’s 24 extra rally killers. Learn to bunt!!!
By Chop Chop
June 18, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this
McFann©,
I’m dead serious. I voted for Geovanny Soto TWO TIMES because of your intrannsigennce. The Cubs are nnot rivals of the Braves. Therefore, I do nnot have annythinng againnst Mr. Soto. I believe he is havinng a very finne seasonn annd should be rewarded. He should nnot be starting over McCann, but I’ve already voted for McCann a bunnch of times. I figured I’d show some respect for Soto.
(If you’re taking this post seriously, start laughing now. I’m just kidding.)
By Braveheart
June 18, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this
Francouer will wind up in Boston. That’s where his family is really from.
Kentavo OBP loving Theo Epstein might kill himself if he signed Francoeur. Francoeur with the Green Monster would probably be tempting for them however. They probably wouldn’t care if he ever hit the ball the other way. Hack and jack it to the Monstah. But I don’t see Theo ever getting Francoeur. He just seems like such an un-Theo kind of player.
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this
Hey Lew,
great post earlier.
Coach, you are getting something wrong:
Soriano says in ST, “my elbow hurts.” But since it’s gettin late in ST, Cox says, “we need him to get innings in” so they throw him regardless of his elbow hurting. THEN he goes on DL. Same thing happens in week 3 of the season.
Who was behind sending hampton on a rehab his 1st time out? Hard to believe it was hampton of all people. Hampton even said, “it doesn’t feel right but i’ll deal with it” and he kept pitching.
Delaying news on moylan, glavine pitching 2+ weeks with a hurt elbow, gonzo coming back so soon and saying “they need me”, braves not wanting dr. andrews to say anything about smoltz’s operation.
Weird stuff this year.
By Chop Chop
June 18, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this
McFann©,
I HAVE DECIDED THAT THERE WILL BE NO MORE ALL-STAR VOTING FOR ME IN 2008!
I DO NOT REALLY CARE ABOUT THE ALL-STAR GAME!
DO NOT FRET OR WORRY! MCCANN WILL GET HIS ALL-STAR BONUS!
ARE YOU GETTING A CUT OF THAT BONUS?
I AM BEING SARCASTIC! HAHAHA! OKAY! I WILL NOW POST THIS!
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this
McMcCain
That was hilarious.
By Glass Half Full
June 18, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this
Winn is a .280+ hitter and can get on base. He’s also signed through 2009. As for the Braves trading Frenchy during the 2008 season? Fugitaboutit! Won’t happen.
By Carroll Rogers
June 18, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s explanation on sending Stockman down:
“The reason I sent Stockman down is he’s a young kid. He wasn’t pitching much and he needs to be pitching. He’s missed a lot in his career with his knee problems. He needs to get back down there and throw. He’s the one that needs to pitch.”
So there you have it. I wasn’t even close with my very bad guess. And he means hamstring, I believe, not knee.
As for having four lefties in the pen (by keeping Ridgway), Bobby said yes, it’s the most he’s ever had (in the pen at one time) but that “it doesn’t matter. Make pitches and it doesn’t matter.”
We asked around today about Soriano and I don’t think they’ve set a time yet for him to throw a bullpen. Asked both Bobby and Roger. Soriano needs to throw a bullpen before coming off the disbled list, so whether that happens when he’s eligible Saturday is yet to be seen.
By Glass Half Full
June 18, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this
I tend to agree on the All-Star voting. Too often casual fans vote for the players they’ve heard of after over-exposure to Sportscenter. This means that the New York teams and Boston are over-represented regardless of how well the players are doing. For the foreseeable future, Jose Reyes and David Wright will always make it ahead of Chipper and Yunel.
By Steve from OH
June 18, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
Choker Man:
The GIDP stat is fine. Bunting, not so much. Bunting is generally a bad idea.
By kirknga
June 18, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s, I know you did not bring up small ball, neither did I. That was not my point.
My point was simply more aggressive baseball as a change in tactic because what the Braves are doing now is not working for them particularly in close and late situations.
I define aggressiveness the same as Mota did in his article, it is both tatical and philosophical. I would also add working the pitch count to what he listed.
Those who believe the Braves are taking the correct approach often reduce the argument to home runs vs. bunt/steals/sacs and I’m saying it’s more to it than that.
Look, if the Braves were hitting homeruns, in clutch situations and were a contending team, then the point would be moot.
But they are not, and change of approach is in order.
By McBengie©
June 18, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this
I would welcome Randy Winn on the Braves. He can play centerfield. We don’t know if Kotasy will be back any time soon.
Winn is a good guy and will be a great teammate. He is smart and articulate and may be able to provide some leadership that seems to be lacking on the club (especially with Smoltz out).
By Steve McP
June 18, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this
Interesting blog today, which was largely about baseball, good to see!
Any news on the line up for tonight? I am looking to watching it on TV, a rare pleasure at the moment (thanks Peachtree)
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop—
No, the Cubs are not rivals of the Braves. But Soto should not be the starter in the All-Star Game.
I will tell you that last year, I was surprised that McCann was an All-Star, because I honestly didn’t think his year was All-Star worthy at that point.
But this year, he is All-Star worthy. I don’t care about bonuses (no, I’m not getting a cut of that bonus). To be honest, the All-Star Game isn’t all that special to me anymore, either, because it has turned into a popularity contest. But McCann should still be starting.
It’s true, I’m very intransigent about this. You vote for whoever you want, but the fact remains that McCann and Molina should be in the All-Star Game, and not Soto.
Soto’s going. There’s no denying that. But that doesn’t mean I have to agree with those who feel he should be the starter—and I do not.
When the Game is all played and over with, I’ll shut myself up (for the most part—something might slip sometime). And if Soto does well in the Game, OK. Good for him.
But I’m standing firm. If you’re only doing this to bug me, then whatever. That’s your business. Mine is voting for McCann.
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
Thanks Carroll for the inquiry!
Your guess was quite good though. Stockman has walked some hitters & bobby doesn’t like that, especially from his younger pitchers.
He also doesn’t like to say bad things about his players, so in essence, you could’ve been right afterall.
By Glass Half Full
June 18, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
agree with McBengie With Blanco, Frenchy, and Jones withan occasional Norton appearance need a veteran outfielder to fill the role that Kotsay was supposed to fill.
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this
Kirknga
agree 100%. 2 fine posts my friend.
By Carroll Rogers
June 18, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this
lineup: escobar kelly johnson chipper jones DH Tex McCann Francoeur B. Jones Omar Infante 3B Gregor Blanco
And Norton will get the start at first base tomorrow. Tex will DH
By Chop Chop
June 18, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this
McFann©,
I agree that McCann should be starting in the All-Star Game. I was actually just kinda hoping to get you to screw up and type “can” just once in a post. You didn’t. I have failed.
Well-played, ma’am.
The end.
By ncscoots
June 18, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this
Those who believe the Braves are taking the correct approach often reduce the argument to home runs vs. bunt/steals/sacs and I’m saying it’s more to it than that.
kirk, then why is it that we see more of “the Braves can’t win waiting for 3-run homers” posts from those who believe the Braves are taking the WRONG approach? I’d agree that the simplistic argument is wrong on both sides, but I think you’re pointing the finger at the wrong folks for taking such a black-and-white position.
By Reid in EAV
June 18, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
Carroll, thanks for asking that question, though the answer is still frustrating. Yes, he wasn’t pitching much up here, but that wasn’t for lack of opportunities. I can think of a few times over the last week where a fresh Stockman might’ve been better than a sore-armed Acosta or Boyer. At the very least (in the games they blew open), he couldn’t be any worse.
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop—
Thanks. Glad to call this the end of our little “spat”. (I’m not taking back anything I said. To be honest, I kinda thought you weren’t “dead” serious.)
So the ticket should be McCann-Molina. But I’m glad we can end our back-and-forth thingy.
Oops! I mean “cann”!
; )
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
BTW—
McMcCain, that was VERY funny!
By Norton is hitting .225
June 18, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
Oh, I almost forgot
NORTON IS HITTING .225
Designated hitter? No.
Designated for assignment? Yes.
By Cody
June 18, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
If the Blue jays fire their GM and start over the Braves need to look in getting Vernon Wells. He would replace Tex if he decides to move on next year.
By kirknga
June 18, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
ncscoot,
I just don’t see the association between: 1.some people make reductionist arguments, and;
It seems to me that #1 is avoidance of ALL the facts(that make up the aggressive baseball argument) in order to caricature and dumb-down the other side of an argument.
While the other, #2, is the confrontation of the relevant fact that the offense of the Braves is failing to produce particularly in clutch situations(when a 3-run homer is not always required).
I just see it as a logical extension that if something you are doing now isn’t producing the results you want, then you need to change what you are doing.
Adding the elements of what Mota called aggressive baseball is a change the Braves could do.
Bottom line is to win and we ain’t doing enough of that so I can’t see maintaining the status quo.
By 22oz
June 18, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
Sending Stockman down so he can pitch? Oh Bobby, you so crazy!
By Bad news Braves
June 18, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
One small question. If Javier is pronounced Havier, Jesus is Hayzoos, Jorge is Horhay, why isn’t Jair Jurgens pronounced Hair Hurgens?
Maybe we need to ask the redheaded peckerwood this question.
By jbutler
June 18, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
Hmmm… Norton at 1st w/Tex DHing..a little look into the future? Although Norton isn’t exactly teetering on the .400 mark - but, oh well.
By Lee in S. GA
June 18, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
Well one can determined the type of season the Braves are having when the main topic this time of year is the all-star game.
McCann vs Soto …I would say the player that has had the major immpact of where his club is in the standings deserves the starter’s role.
By Efrim
June 18, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this
Teheran’s debut: 4 IP 5 Hits 3 ER 0 BB 3K’s
By Norton is hitting .225
June 18, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
jbutler wrote: Norton isn’t exactly teetering on the .400 mark - but, oh well.
No, in case you hadn’t heard
NORTON IS HITTING .225
He is teetering on the .225 mark.
By BravesFanInRockies
June 18, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
FWIW, the Yanks just signed Sidney Ponson to a minor league deal.
Have at it.
By Braveheart
June 18, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
One small question. If Javier is pronounced Havier, Jesus is Hayzoos, Jorge is Horhay, why isn’t Jair Jurgens pronounced Hair Hurgens?
Probably for the same reason Joran Van Der Sloot isn’t pronounced Horan Van Der Sloot.
By Yunel Escobar only hits grounders to Short
June 18, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
Yup. He does.
By brian
June 18, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
now that is a way to keep the average above .400!!!!
way to go Chipper!
By LuisGuillermo
June 18, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
HR by Chipper!
By Carroll Rogers
June 18, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this
first ab, 3-2 count, Home RUN for larry wayne? .400 average intact….
By lexbrave
June 18, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
I think Tex struck out before chipper finished rounding the bases.
way to be patient at the plate.
By KC
June 18, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
Nice shot Chip!!!
Boy, does Tex look bad, or what?
By lexbrave
June 18, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this
braveheart…might have something to do with the fact that Jair is Dutch and Not from Latin America.
By Shamus Thacker
June 18, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this
Any’a y’all ever wonder if Hammy has been tutoring summa our relievers in the art of wince and grab?
By Shamus Thacker
June 18, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
WAY TO GO HOSS!!
Tex, you suck!
By Efrim
June 18, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this
Wow. Come on Jeff. Is it really that bad where you can’t take one pitch?
By jukeandjive
June 18, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
Tex should be offered no more than 15-16 million a year MAX! He’s good. He’s not Manny Ramirez, Alex Rodriguez, Chipper Jones, elite!
By Braveheart
June 18, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this
braveheart…might have something to do with the fact that Jair is Dutch and Not from Latin America.
exactly
By Glass Half Full
June 18, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this
Important Changes to All-Star Game
By popular demand, MLB has decided that this year’s game will be replaced by “the best rivalry in sports,” the Boston Red Sox vs. the New York Yankees with the winner facing the New York Mets. Regardless of the outcome, Boston will be named 2008 World Series Champion!
Also, that night on ESPN Radio, Joe Morgan will regal listeners with stories about Barry Bonds, Willie Mays, Willie Randolph, and Frank Robinson. Per contractual obligations, Morgan will refer to Jose Reyes as “the most exciting player in baseball” at least three times as well.
By Braves20
June 18, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this
Any chance we could just leave Tex with the Rangers and maybe just get back one or two of the prospects we wasted on him?
By FloridaBrave
June 18, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this
I’m not surprised the Braves are going after Randy Winn- I believe the Braves were looking at him in the off-season before they got Kotsay. He’s a jack-of-all-trades but master of none type player; a guy like Kotsay who you find on winning ballclubs. He can play CF which is an asset with Kotsay being hurt(season ending?). What I love is how it will deepen our lineup if he bats 2nd, allowing us to drop Kelly down to 7th and we’d have three straight switch hitters in the lineup. Talk about a match-up nighhtmare. At the same time, whoever said Brandon Jones is a cheaper Randy Winn might be correct and if we do trade him- which seems likely at this point- I hope the Giants pay a bit of Winn’s salary.
By Teixeira
June 18, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this
Tex, you suck!
That sounded like human emotion. What is thing you feeble humans call emotion? It’s beyond my Vulcan comprehension.
By Scott from Fairburn
June 18, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this
After listening to Omar Minaya’s babbling press conference (yeah, Omar it was your decision), it’s no wonder it took him years of interviews to get a GM gig.
If you were an owner, would you hand this guy the keys to your franchise?
By Teixeira
June 18, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
Any chance we could just leave Tex with the Rangers and maybe just get back one or two of the prospects we w wasted on him?
Sticks and stone may break my bones but I’m still getting paid.
By Manny Acosta
June 18, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this
My name is actually phoentically pronounced “Gopher-Ball-City.” If you say it in dialect, though, it’s “Batting Practice.”
Take your pick.
By bf54
June 18, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this
Cody at 2:04:…. But if that is the case he may not pitch again, I believe alot of it may be in his head.
I agree. There is something about Sorianno’s daily “no mas” which troubled me. I owe it to the man to give him the benefit of the doubt, but I didn’t and haven’t judged him a “gamer” (for whatever that hackneyed word means), and, as a Braves fan that’s my perogative.
He seems moody and overly psychological, in addition to being very good, very fast, very inconsistent - he’s a veritable “artiste” in every sense of the word…but…the blog must finish my sentence.
By Don
June 18, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
Another human with emotion, Tex does SUCK!
By Trent the Braves
June 18, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
The Braves do NOT need to trade for any player this year. Their previous 2 season deals have amounted to zero as far as advancing this team to the playoffs. Keep the bums you have, hope they amont to champioship material and leave well enough alone.
By William Shatner
June 18, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
Chipper “Captain Kirk” Jones: I happen to have a human thing called an adrenaline.
Mark “Mr. Spock” Teixeira: That sounds most inconvenient. Have you considered having it removed?
By Efrim
June 18, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
That run is on Heap there. He should of had Duran stealing and that “wild pitch”.
By Chipper Jones
June 18, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
(In reference to Greg Norton)
Lose a Mondesi, gain a Mondesi.
By William Shatner
June 18, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this
Chipper “Captain Kirk” Jones: At times you seem quite human.
Mark “Mister Spock” Teixeira: Captain, I don’t think that insults are within your prerogative as my commanding officer.
Chipper “Captain Kirk” Jones: But I suspect you’re becoming more and more human all the time.
Mark “Mister Spock” Teixeira: Captain, I see no reason to stand here and be insulted.
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
Ha! That Laird thought he could pull another fast one, did he?
“Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on you!”
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
Aw, crud…
By Teixeira For Leadoff
June 18, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
I don’t why you guys think we need a leadoff hitter. Just put that cleanup hitter with his .359 OBP and .437 SLG at leadoff. Useless at cleanup and subpar numbers for a leadoff hitter as well but we gotta make do. at least he gets his walks.
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
I MEANT: “Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on ME!”
Brian: Two words: Hitting streak.
By Teixeira
June 18, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this
What is this drama of Chipper and .400? Is drama yet another condition caused by the human emotion?
By Sautee
June 18, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
Any one heard why the Hawks and Falcons blogs are not open for comments?
By Dubya
June 18, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
“Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on you!”
That’s always been a troublesome phrase for me as well.
By TennesseePaul
June 18, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
Man this is one ugly outing… 32 strikes, 32 balls. 64 pitches after 4. I’d rather Reyes follow up a stellar outing with another stellar outing. If we get the win, great. But Reyes still needs to throw more strikes.
By Kev
June 18, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
Carroll
What’s the Latest on Kotsay???…will he be activated Friday or in the weekend…
By Saltywoody
June 18, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this
“Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on you!”
That sounds like my girlfriend.
By bf54
June 18, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
Cody at 2:18.
I must be thick, and obviously, I am very slowly working my way thru this blog, but…pray tell, just who is it that “we get rid of” (have I had too many Grolsch’s tonite?).
By cabravesfan
June 18, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
TNPaul “ugly” is a little harsh for a guy who has only given up 3 hits and a run that was not totally on him isn’t it? I’d like to see him throw more strikes too but he really hasn’t been bad tonight…
By LuisGuillermo
June 18, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
.39918 or .40329 ??
By Shamus Thacker
June 18, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Wish Tex had options left. I’d send him to Siberia South, AKA Richmond.
By LuisGuillermo
June 18, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
Make it .40329! C’mon TEX, do something!!!!
By Efrim
June 18, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
Tex really has to come up and get a hit in this spot….
or a walk.
By Carroll Rogers
June 18, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
Kev, no. Kotsay is just starting to get to where he can pick up a bat and swing a little.
By Efrim
June 18, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
This team isn’t going to be able to sustain any kind of success if Tex and Frenchy don’t get going.
And there goes Tex striking out.
That 4th spot in cursed in this lineup.
By bf54
June 18, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this
Cody at 2:18. You sound sober, my man! I like that for balance. Is JoJo a #2,…you made me ponder, and since you said it with conviction, I have a tendency to accept it as a “reasoned opinion” from a knowledgeable source. I might be wrong, but my sense of it over the three years I have been on this blog, is that your opinions carry some weight. Now, the weight of the blog, might come down on you, and someone undoubtedly will “flame” you. But for the time being, JoJo on your assessment and his numbers is my #2 guy. Thanks for the hope, as this team is, what… 241-241 for the last 482 (LOL!).
By LuisGuillermo
June 18, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
I guess Teixeira wants to leave Texas in a hurry…
By Ron Washington's inner thoughts
June 18, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
Why don’t I just walk McCann to load the bases. Francoeur is probably going to hit into a DP……
By braves70
June 18, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
Boy that Tex is some consistent hitter. When we have runners at first and second, Tex NEVER gets a hit. Now we get Francoeur with the bases loaded. Those two guys are killing this team.
By rlpmetro
June 18, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
You people that are bashing Teixiera need to cool it. Have some freaking perspective! The guy is an excellent 1B, and the Braves are lucky to have him. Players are allowed to have slumps! If Teixiera wasn’t in this lineup, how many hittable pitches do you think Chipper would see in his at bats? The answer is MAYBE one. Lay of the guy for goodness sakes.
I better not see any of you praising him when he turns this around and hits for 35 HR’s and over 115 RBI’s.
By Efrim
June 18, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
Why does Cox continue to bat Frenchy in the 6 hole. He isn’t right at the moment.
And Brandon pops it up…..
HOW THE HELL DOES THIS OFFENSE NOT SCORE IN THAT INNING?!?!?!
By ernesto
June 18, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
Tex and Frenchy don’t come through.
Again.
By geauxbraves2000
June 18, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
And Mr Clutch strikes again. And again. And again, and heads back to the dugout.
What a waste.
Geaux Braves!!
By Live from Yokohama
June 18, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Three pitch strikeout with the bases loaded. Frenchy needs to sit or be sent down. He’s been brutal in RBI situations…
By Shamus Thacker
June 18, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Hex and Stenchy, whadda 1-2 punch!
By Mike
June 18, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
I hate Francouer.
By LuisGuillermo
June 18, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
How many times have we seen that happening? How many times do WE HAVE to see THAT HAPPEN AGAIN? Drop FranKoeur to the 8th spot!
By bf54
June 18, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this
TennPaul 3:00pm. Your figure COULD NOT possibly be for comparable “at bats”. I’ve never seen you do this before - did I miss something? (We all know that “there are lies, damned lies and statistics”. Help me out here, because, I listen to you, man!
By bf54
June 18, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
TennPaul 3:00pm. Your figure COULD NOT possibly be for comparable “at bats”. I’ve never seen you do this before - did I miss something? (We all know that “there are lies, damned lies and statistics”. Help me out here, because, I listen to you, man!
By Mike
June 18, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
I hate this team.
By Shamus Thacker
June 18, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
Errrr, ummm, I meant to say whadda 1-2 punchout…
By braves70
June 18, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
Note to Braves opponent pitchers. Be carefule with #3 and #5. #4 and #6 are automatic outs if you let some runners on base,
By NO MORE BOBBY
June 18, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
GOD HATES THE BRAVES!!!!!
By Efrim
June 18, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
McCann cost the team a couple of runs tonight on the defensive side of the ball.
By McFann©
June 18, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this
Well, that was BAD! Sheesh! What kind of a……? Oh man…that looked bad…
Nice play to end it, though.
By Shamus Thacker
June 18, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
Bobby better put Stenchy on the benchy before he’s lynchied by Braves fans…
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
rIpmetro:
are you scott boras?
By uga-brave
June 18, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
braveheart,
you can defend francoeur all day long, but his problems have nothing to do with an injured ankle.
francoeur has alway dropped his hands and hit off his front foot. makes it real hard to square the ball up when you have all that vertical movement.
maybe the braves will get lucky and frenchy will take a page out of ahmad’s book, (bad news bears) and after the game he will jump the right field fence take his uniform off and climb a tree.
By A-ville Ranger
June 18, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
I would rather have any other non-pitcher on the team bat in that situation than Franceour right now.
By bf54
June 18, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
Carroll at 3:10 re Ridgeway and Stockman, you posted: i haven’t watched every outing Stockman had but i remember one of his first he had a hard time commanding the fastball and was throwing the curve for strikes, which seems backward. he also had two outings with two walks each. ridgway has none i think. (i have no idea if that has anything to do with anything, but i’m taking a stab anyway.)
Well, I don’t know, but, you have to ask whether Acosta, Ring, Boyer, threw the balls for hits and HR’s, doncha? Answer: look at the BA against their pitches, and THEN and ONLY THEN, do you look at what “pitches they command”. (My point being: it ain’t what they’re throwin’, but whether the OT can hit ‘em that counts.)
By brian
June 18, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
I just hope that the Braves are not showcasing Brandon Jones to try and deal him for Randy Winn. If Brandon Jones could become an important piece of a deal like Charles Thomas was in dealing for Hudson then great. We should be able to get Winn for a B prospect, not a top 10 prospect.
By Bobby Cox's inner thoughts
June 18, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
Kelly hit that ball really hard. 1 for 3 with a walk, but he has looked good out there. A lot better than the clean up hitter and that mess out in right field.
By Shamus Thacker
June 18, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
Stenchy won’t climb a tree. He’s allergic to wood. And he’s proved can’t scale a wall over three-feet.
By kirknga
June 18, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
I believe Tex will get to 100+ rbi’s I just don’t know if he will get them in enough clutch situations to make me believe he is a $20 million/year player.He is not a bad player.
I think what I am looking for is something like Andrew’s near MVP season when he was hitting ‘em when the team needed a score the most.
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
uga-brave:
exactly.
By Dunwoody Dan
June 18, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
Bennett’s in…
Good night Braves.
By Braves20
June 18, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
kirknga - your 10:16 post - too true.
By Braves20
June 18, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
kirknga - your 10:16 post - too true.
By Bobby's Cox
June 18, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
Shamus:
first frenchy would have to get to that 3 foot wall. And he proved Sunday the sun would set before he could get there in time to see it through.
Well if tonight was a lesson, the AL’s most offensive team ran like crazy on us. So i guess you can still play offensively and hit for power? There’s a concept.
Texas wouldn’t have scored run number 2 if they hadn’t forced the braves to make a play. This game wouldn’t be tied.
By TennesseePaul
June 18, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
bf54: No. Piazza’s line is for a full season. Otherwise he would have set all sorts of records with HR and catchers that year. I just wanted to post a side by side of what Mac is doing at the same age as the greatest offensive catcher… Happens to be Piazza’s first full season was that year listed. He was 24. Mac came up younger than Piazza and had at least one stellar season in the years before. Not bad at all. The doubles and homers projections were made prior to this game, but he was on pace to smack about 30 HR and about 50 doubles. That’s one helluva season Mac is building on… If the guys behind him ever start hitting this team will launch like a rocket.
By Efrim
June 18, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
I really hope we don’t break a record for consecutive one run road losses. This isn’t a bad team. They just have horrible luck…….
….and they aren’t clutch. At least not this year.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 18, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
brvaeheart & uga-brave
I watched some film of Franco batting and to be honest — it looks like he is collapsing his front leg on his follow thru. Sometimes this happens when a player has an ankle injury and they alter their mechanics to offset the pain and it becomes a habit they have to overcome.
By keylargo
June 18, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
It sure was a relief to have that DuA Marlon Byrd swing at the first pitch. Marlon, your and idiot. Haven’t you been watching our RFer?
By TennesseePaul
June 18, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this
Reach on error. I’ll take it.
For a good week there Francoeur was on a roll…
.391/.440/.609/1.049 (AVG/OBP/SLG/OPS)
That was a 6 game span. He had a 6 game hit streak as well. Including 3 multi hit games. Then he had 2 0-fers in a row. Then another multi-hit game. Take it back any further and it isn’t good at all…
By kris
June 18, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this
Unbelievably pathetic Jones can’t lay down a bunt. Can anybody on this team play fundamental baseball?
By TennesseePaul
June 18, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
Nice hittin’ Infante!
CaBravesFan: First off, if I’m understanding the moniker correctly, where abouts in CA?
I only posted what I posted due to his previous outing which was sick, 104 pitches, 65 strikes. He was able to calm down as the game went on which is huge. Previously our young guns got all crazy when they started off with poor control. This game, 102 pitches, 55 strikes.
And another one from the bottom of the order! Nice Bravos. Nice!
By keylargo
June 18, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
Gonzo? Save?
By cabravesfan
June 18, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
really great to see Mike Gonzalez back…and throwing 94!
By Chop Chop
June 18, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
Nice to see the boys get a crooked number up on that board before Mike Gonzalez made his first appearance. It’s not quite like the Smoltz one-off appearance as closer because Mike’s arm is healthy, but a one-run game would have been tough for him.
By TURTSNAP
June 18, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
Nice to have Gonzo back, man is he PUMPED!!
By Overlord-D-Day
June 18, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
Go get them mike!!!!!!!!!
By Greg O.
June 18, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
“He’s got a rock going right now that would make Leo Mazzone proud” - Joe Simpson on Mike Gonzalez. Priceless.
By keylargo
June 18, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
Gonzo!!! Si Save Si!!!!
By cabravesfan
June 18, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
good lord i’ve missed this guy!
By kirknga
June 18, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this
Good win. Clutch hitting and pitching makes a helluva difference don’t it!
By KC
June 18, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
YEAH BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Saltywoody
June 18, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
Wait…did we just win a tie game on the road and get a save?
I’ve got a sickness…and the cure is more GONZO!!!!!!!!!
By BravesFanInRockies
June 18, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
Suh-weet!
Most satisfying win of the year? Could be!
By A-ville Ranger
June 18, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
By god that’s a closer,finally somebody with the makeup to shut the door.
By chopper
June 18, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
Man a real closer!! A real closer!!
By Mike
June 18, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
Atta boy Mikey…nice to have a closer again…good win tonight.
By beachcomber
June 18, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
Welcome back Gonzo. How encouraging.
By bulldog20
June 18, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
We have now got us a closer people!!
Having a guy coming out of the pen with that kind of nasty stuff, and even more importantly, that kind of fire in his belly is just what the Doctor ordered for these guys.
With a closer like Gonzo, this is a new team boys!
Go Bravos!!!
By Shamus Thacker
June 18, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
YEAH!!
By KC
June 18, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
Picked up a game on the Phillies, and saw a couple of VERY encouraging things.
First of all, Reyes kept up the great work… and of course, Gonzo looked great!
Watch your rear view Phillies fans!
By geauxbraves2000
June 18, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
Welcome back Gonzo!!
WTG Braves!
Nite all.
Geaux Braves!!
By Greg O.
June 18, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this
I love it. Mike Gonzalez referring to himself in the third person. He’s just what the Braves need - an effective stopper just crazy/confident enough for everybody to rally around. I have a feeling that one-run road losing streak is going to end soon with him throwing in the ninth.
By Philliesuk
June 18, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this
Had to ‘watch’ the game tonight on GameCast. Can anyone comment on how Gonzo looked?
By Overlord-D-Day
June 18, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this
Now we are talking business.
This team is now playing like they can.
4-2 on the road (last 6)
Now we have good if not great SP and a solid pen.
Phillies will start a series against Angels tomorrow…… this could get interesting by the end of the week.
GO BRAVOS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Great outing by Gonzo. He overthrew some pitches but Id say it was some of the hyper causing it.
Because of JoJos great outing, Ohman, Boyer and Acosta get some rest.
Bennett only pitches 1 innings. He might not pitch tomorrow, we might see the others if needed. Just great panorama.
Im starting to love baseball again.
By woogidy
June 18, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
What’s that I smell? Momentum? 5.5 games out
By Daybed Wagmoe
June 18, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
Wow, Mike Gonzalez is NASTY. Welcome back Gonzo! I think the hitters were hypnotized from all that back-and-forth rocking…that or they thought there was an earthquake and were confused what he was doing…
Too bad Jo-Jo didn’t get the win tonight, he pitched great. 5 great starts in a row, he’s looking great. But they won, and that’s all that counts.
By Austin
June 18, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
Greg O
I just freaking told my dad how cool it was that he referred to himself as “Gonzo”
His swagger is going to be huge for the Braves. They know GONZO will come in and just not shut the door, but slam it in their face.
By Steve from OH
June 18, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this
I’m very impressed by JoJo’s improvement this year. I think McDowell and Glavine have helped him greatly, and it shows.
By Pete H.
June 18, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this
That might be our best win of the year since sweeping the Mutts. JoJo was brilliant, looking like a real No. 2 starter now, and Bennett and Gonzo both pitched very well. Omar had a clutch hit and we managed to win despite zero production from the middle of the order apart from Chipper.
Give Omar a bunch of credit. He wasn’t going to NOT get on base. You could see it in his face.
By Norton is hitting .225
June 18, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
Hey, Norton did not play tonight so
NORTON IS STILL HITTING .225
Yikes!
By Jerald Holcombe
June 18, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
After the last homestand, I made the statement that the Braves would be at least 10 games behind the Phillies when they finished their road trip. After being swept by the Cubs, it looked to be the same ole story. But, with 1 game to play tomorrow afternoon, they have a chance to have a 5-5 roadtrip. No small feat. I said that the Braves had to start getting at least 7 innings from their starters and that is starting to happen. And Mike Gonzalez, how great was it to see him come back and pitch like he did? And to show that kind of enthusiasm. Amazing! Now, we have to add more to the mix and have Tex and Francoeur start contributing. Add Hampton to the rotation of Hudson, Jurrjens, Reyes, & Campillo and maybe, just maybe, miracles can happen. Thanks Gonzo for the lift!
By Mark Twain
June 18, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
Reports of the death of the Braves’ season, if not exaggerated, were certainly premature.
By Tony Almeida
June 18, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
I admire how Gonzalez did tonight, but throw him straight into a save situation on his first night eligible? Can we not ease him into this?
By Norton is hitting .225
June 18, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this
woogidy asked: “What’s that I smell?”
It’s simply the stench of
GREG NORTON HITTING .225
Pew!
By TennesseePaul
June 18, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this
Gonzo has a consecutive save streak of 30 dating back to August 16th, 2004… if I counted correctly. 56 more to go and he passes the juicer.
By Robin
June 18, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this
Terrific game! Omar made up for his boot. Clutch hitting. Another quality start for JoJo. Can’t say enough about Gonzo …chillbump material!
Take THAT haters!
By Pete H.
June 18, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
Jesus, Nahhhton, lighten up. The guy was signed to be a pinch hitter and nothing more. He got pushed into playing regularly by injuries. As the 25th guy, he has been pretty good. When a couple of others get healthy, he will be at Richmond. Now, just pay attention to things that matter instead of picking on someone who is at least doing his best.
By Jerald Holcombe
June 18, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
Hey, how about we win by 1 run tomorrow and Gonzo come in and get the save and get that monkey off the team’s back.
By TURTSNAP
June 18, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this
Hey guys, do you realize IF the Braves win tomorrow, with the Phils idle, we would be 5 back coming back from this 10 game trip. I believe we started the trip 6.5 back, so we actually gain 1.5 games!!!!! IF!!! Who’da thunk that!!!
By BravesFanInRockies
June 18, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
Philliesuk,
Gonzo was completely geeked. As Joe Simpson said, his rockin’ would have made Leo proud.
Fastball 92-94; big curve and a nice change.
Looked really confident out there.
By rupert
June 18, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this
so much for this being a slow death march of a road trip
By Bobby's Fan Club
June 18, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
Can you believe that Blanco guy? Here we are trying to win a one run ballgame on the road and he goes and screws it up. And you know he hit that triple on purpose and drove in a run to make it 4 - 2. And to make matters worse, Kelly Johnson busts his butt down the line to keep out of a DP. Hasn’t he been watching TEX and Frenchy? Gee either of those guys would have got us out of that rally. Quit all that hustling -it’s a LONG season. I was hoping Bobby would bring in Acosta to see if we could get it back to 5 - 4. But no, he brings in a guy just off the DL. Doesn’t he realize how easy it would be to go right back on that DL? WTF Bobby? Don’t you want to break that 1 run loss thing up? IF I didn’t make $9.25 with benefits working for the Parks and Rec Dept., I would put my resume in. Anybody could manage this team better than Cox. We ALL love you man, but you’ve got to get with it.
By BravesFanInRockies
June 18, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
BTW, folks, in case you hadn’t heard, Tiger Woods had knee surgery today. He won the US Open with a torn ACL and a stress fracture in his leg.
Unbelievable.
By Pete H.
June 18, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
Hey, how about we win by 1 run tomorrow and Gonzo come in and get the save and get that monkey off the team’s back.
I’d rather win by 10, if you please. I’m getting too old for this one-run crap.
By BravesFanInRockies
June 18, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this
One more thing, folks. CJ Wilson deserves the game ball. If he doesn’t make that error, who knows how that inning turns out, or whether Gonzo would have gotten a save opportunity?
CJ also take Francouer off the hook for striking out with the bases loaded. And because he’s pitched the first two games of the series, he may not be available tommorow.
Thanks, CJ!
By BravesFanInRockies
June 18, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this
I also think it’s time for Bobby to take a page from Tony LaRussa and hit the pitchers 8th — so Francouer can hit 9th!!
By THB
June 18, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
JoJo Reyes is easily my favorite of the young pitchers. I like his potential. He reminds me of CC Sabathia in a lot of ways. He doesn’t throw quite as hard (CC throws around 97), but is still a power lefty. JoJo is also not as big as CC, but is definetely good sized. His release is also similar at about 3/4. He’s definetely right there with Jurrjens right now.
Mike Gonzalez is going to bring confidence in the 9th inning. He is a firey guy and he’s fun to watch. Not to mention he’s got some filthy stuff.
If nobody noticed, Jordan Schafer had a big game tonight. He went 3 for 4 with 2 doubles, 2 RBI, 2 BB, and 1 R. That’s a great game, being on base 5 times. Hopefully he keeps this up.
My thoughts on Randy Winn: I would be fine with it as long as we don’t give up B.Jones, Reyes, Morton, Jurrjens, Schafer, Heyward, etc. Basically none of our top prospects, LOL. They’d probably ask for Schafer, we’d turn them down, and they’d settle for B.Jones. I wish we had gotten him instead of Kotsay, only because of his injuries.
By Mike Hampton's Offshore Bank Account
June 18, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this
Can someone wire me some money to Dark Star, this rehab things getting expensive in the House of Mouse
By Steve McP
June 18, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this
I don’t want to pee on anyone’s fireworks, but I recall when Bob Wickman joined the team we were very excited that we had a closer again - let’s hope the great Gonzo (definitely a circus act) can keep up the energy and the adrenaline, he really did look the part tonight.
By BravesFanChris23
June 18, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this
What a nice win for us on the road. We finally did something on the road we haven’t done before and that is clutch hitting in late innings. Chipper got a nice solo home run in the first almost got robbed though, but got it nonetheless. His average is currently at .400 (was .402 till the last at bat of the night, which was a ground out). The bottom of the order is continuing the offense for us on a consistent level/basis. Jo Jo “Biscuit” Reyes pitched very well. We still had some blunders in leaving men on base, errors and such, but the late inning surge that gave us the win makes them moot.
However, the big story of the night is that GONZO IS BACK. He pitched very well and he didn’t hold anything back. He got the save via 1-2-3 inning, although Texas made him work a bit, he still saved it for us.
By BravesFanInRockies
June 18, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this
THB,
Agreed about Winn. I’m guessing it will take B. Jones at least to get him.
But you know what? I’d really like it if the Braves go on a nice little run, win 15 out of 20 maybe, with both Gregor and Brandon contributing regularly.
So when Z-man comes back, Wren looks at his roster and decides he doesn’t need to take on Winn’s $8+MM salary after all, that the guys we have are just fine.
By KC
June 19, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this
PhillieSuck: I’m sure you gathered this from all the other positive comments… but Gonzo looked very good.
He threw 93-94 with his fastball, which is where he was early last year before the elbow problems. He threw his changeup, and some nasty curves.
All in all, he looked just like he did early last season for us… with the exception of a little rocking action he’s starting employing before going into the windup.
He kind of sways in a circular motion now before he winds. Looks kind of weird, but as Brian Jordan pointed out, it may serve to distract hitters a bit… so more power to him.
If you email me in the next 10 minutes at embassypro@hotmail.com, I’ll let you use my MLB TV account to watch the game or the highlights tonight.
By Mackey Sasser
June 19, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this
In Dallas on business so I went to the game tonight. Ameriquest is a much prettier stadium in person than on TV. A whole lotta Braves fans in the house. I dare say there was more Braves gear (hats, jerseys) than at some home games. The Rangers fans got pretty cranky, especially when Chipper came up.
By BravesFanInRockies
June 19, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
Oh, and also, re: Winn.
If Wren even considers offering Jurrjens or JoJo in a deal for Winn, I would expect to see Wren’s resignation letter on Schuerholz’s desk. Immediately.
By KC
June 19, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this
Randy Winn is a solid player… but I would rather see the Braves deal for Ryan Freel (who wears out lefties), and use a Freel/Blanco platoon in the leadoff spot/left field (when Kotsay returns).
By BravesFanInRockies
June 19, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this
REVISION: If Lincecum’s involved in the Winn deal, then I’ll reconsider. But Winn for JJJ or Winn for JoJo straight up? No way, and no thanks.
By KC
June 19, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this
BravesFanOnRockies: “If Wren even considers offering Jurrjens or JoJo in a deal for Winn, I would expect to see Wren’s resignation letter on Schuerholz’s desk. Immediately.”
Brother, those guys wouldn’t be offered for Matt Holiday, let alone Randy Winn. The young starters ain’t goin’ anywhere, unless we get an ace starter in return (one that isn’t a free agent at the end of the year).
That is the ONLY circumstance in which the Braves would consider parting with any of those guys.
By Carroll Rogers
June 19, 2008 12:23 AM | Link to this
I see the denizens are in properly good spirits now. laughed out loud at the interruptions for norton’s batting average….and offshore bank accounts.
And to top it off for Gonzo - third person, of course - his parents and sisters were in the stands tonight. They live three hours away outside of Houston. Some quotes from Gonzo for you, tho many of you obviously heard him on TV.
“To me the first strike was a big deal, the first throw,” Gonzalez said. “I had the butterflies going. As soon as I threw that first pitch, I felt like I was right at home. The first thing they told me when I came up from Richmond was ‘Texas has got the best hitters in the AL.’ I’m like ‘That’s the perfect opportunity for me to come and see what I’m about.’.”
“It felt like I can compete today,” he said. “It felt good. No pain. That’s what I was looking for. It’s just a great feeling to go out there and just let it go without having to think about anything.”
As for the rocking?? “I always rocked. I know I haven’t rocked in 12 months. It was definitely a good feeling to do it on a big league mound. The better I felt, the more I rocked. Sometimes you can tell, when I’m rocking pretty good, that means I’m feeling pretty good.”
And bf54, I got ya. i was grabbing at straws to figure an answer to a question i didn’t have the answer for yet. Bobby explained it tho.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 19, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this
Like I said the other day, I see a team thats is coming together under a trial by fire, and is ready to start making their move.
If they can continue to build momentum it will be a great summer to come.
And vindication to all of us here on the blog who have stuck with them and not tried to throw them under the bus after every twist and turn in the road.
GO BRAVES !!!!!!!
By Kentavo
June 19, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this
JJ and JoJo are going nowhere.
BTW I’m watching Baseball Tonight, and after 20 minutes no mention of Gonzalez coming back at all. Unbelievable.
By THB
June 19, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this
KC and Braves Fan in Rockies-The Giants will probably ask for a good amount, maybe Morton, Schafer, or Gorkys, but will have to settle for B.Jones. I hope we stick with what we have right now.
By KC
June 19, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this
Capt Caveman: “Like I said the other day, I see a team thats is coming together”
Yup. If they keep getting this kind of starting pitching, the rest of the season should be kind to them. I think the Braves still have a very good shot at winning 90-plus games this year, and going back to the post-season.
Gotta keep Gonzo healthy, and gotta keep getting strong starting pitching.
It would also be helpful for Tex to pull his head and his bat out of an unnamed orifice, and start earning his pay.
By KC
June 19, 2008 12:40 AM | Link to this
Kentavo: If you’re waiting for ESPN to pay attention to the Braves, you’ll be waiting a while. If it were the Mets getting Billy Wagner back after a year, they would have led this show with that.
I think it was Bruce Hornsby who said it best… That’s just the way it is; some things will never change.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 19, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this
Why do some of you keep talking about possible trades? Braves dont need nothing. This team is complete. Leave everything as it is. Wait for the other reinforcements (Hampton, Prado, Kotsay, Diaz and possibly Glavine) and we will be in 1st place pretty soon. There is no room for what we have now on the roster, why go out shopping and trading? No sense.
By Robin
June 19, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this
Kentavo
I’m watching too but, not at all surprised. I said last week, ESPN loathes the Braves for some reason, it still holds true. Story coming up though …..at the back of the hour. Sheeesh!
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 19, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this
Good win tonight, I kind of figured the Braves to be favored to win these last two games in Arlington, Texas.
As for Randy Winn, I have no objections other than the 16.5 million and two years which he has left on his current contract(2008-2009).
Winn also has a limited no-trade clause which blocks him from being traded to ten different clubs, but I doubt the Braves are one of those ten.
Here is the skinny on Randy Winn:
He is 34, switch hits, throws righty.
Assets:
Is a sound gap hitter that uses his speed to notch extra bases. Has the versatility to hit anywhere in the lineup and play three outfield positions.
Flaws:
His arm is particularly weak for a right-fielder. Doesn’t take advantage of his speed enough, either at the plate or on the base-paths.
Career potential:
A steady, yet unspectacular everyday outfielder currently hitting .297 with an OBP of .360, 5 HR’s, 27 RBI and 10 stolen bases
By Wayne in Utah
June 19, 2008 1:05 AM | Link to this
Overlord: Could the Braves be looking for someone to bat leadoff and have a bit more pop for CF that Blanco? Would you offer Thorman and Redmond for a guy like Randy Winn? Or maybe even Blanco or B Jones? I would hate to see Jones go after such a good start.
I am with you that we have the pieces for a really strong team, but what worries me is we are SOOOO fragile in lots of spots.
I would still love to see us find a decent 1B/3B/corner OF’er with a REAL bat. Norton might be that guy, or at least he has been in the past, but now…..
And Gotay, that dude is a waste of roster space. Why not just use JoJo to pinch hit when the last man is needed? I think when Prado comes back he is gone.
Would you offer Diory Hernandez for Randy Winn?
Who is out there that can catch once a week with a real stick…..Piazza???
Sorry I haven’t been able to check in much lately…got a wedding going on this Saturday, in my back yard. Loads of work to do…
By Overlord-D-Day
June 19, 2008 1:05 AM | Link to this
You just got to say WOW to this:
Angels are an amazing 201-2 in games they have led after 8th in the past 3 years…
Thats crazy.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 19, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this
KC
Thanks. I admit I was watching Baseball Tonight to see what they would say (if anything) about tonights game. Not surprising they talked chippers at bats and showed Infante’s hit and that was it. Kruk tried to throw in some good points but was ignored, then finally he said that Gonzalezed had save it.
It’s typical of their coverage. I think it has to do with their games being on Fox.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 19, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this
About Chipper Jones,there are three stats that just blow my mind.
He has 32 multiple hit games in the 65 played so far.
Hoss has hit in 54 of 65 games played.
Chipper has 45 walks versus 30 strike outs.
By Pete H.
June 19, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this
Carroll, thanks for the Gonzo report. We didn’t see the interview, unless we lived in the South.
….and they aren’t clutch. At least not this year.
Whoever said that, I think that game was clutch. We hammered CJ, who I would love to see in Atlanta, in the 9th. That is clutch.
I got cheese to go with all the whine here.
By Quack Quack
June 19, 2008 1:36 AM | Link to this
GREG NORTON IS HITTING .225
Why did we get this guyNortonHitting
Coach convinced the Braves that Norton was the ugly stick that we needed off the bench. Turns out he does have an ugly stick alright, just not the right kind of ugly. But hey it was coach’s idea so what can you expect?
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 19, 2008 1:53 AM | Link to this
Did you know that the average American League team has eleven pitchers on the roster. The Braves will have played six of the last seven games in A.L. parks with thirteen pitchers.
Give a big high five to Bobby Cox !
Did you know that Andruw Jones hit in the clean up spot the first 107 games of the 2007 season until Tex took over in game 108. So, don’t expect Teixeira and McCann to swap spots in the batting order anytime soon.
Give Bobby Cox another high five !
Did you know that Andruw Jones did not come out of the Braves lineup until game 159 last year, after the Braves had been mathematically eliminated from the playoffs. So, don’t expect Jeff Francoeur to miss any games in the near future.
Give Bobby Cox another huge high five !
p.s. Did I mention that fact that I have Z-E-R-O C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-C-E in our illustrious Hall of Fame manager !!!!!
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 19, 2008 2:00 AM | Link to this
Greg Norton has hit an abysmal .178 as a starting player, the man belongs on the bench, not in the lineup. He will be starting tomorrows game, A-G-A-I-N.
Give Bobby Cox another High Five !
p.s. more ammunition please.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 19, 2008 2:05 AM | Link to this
HEY BLOG
Anybody else notice that fact that their is a certain “person” on this blog that nobody pays attention to??
Do you think he is going to catch on eventually??
By Im
June 19, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this
Coach did i mention that i have zero confidence in the validity of your opinion?
By BayAreaSteve
June 19, 2008 2:11 AM | Link to this
Where’s whiskey?
Coach, you amuse me. Thank you.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 19, 2008 2:39 AM | Link to this
Did I mention the fact that Bobby Cox presided over the WORST MONTH of baseball in the 43 year history of Atlanta Braves baseball back in June of 2006 where the Braves went 6-21. From which this storied franchise HAS YET TO RECOVER two and a half seasons later ?????????
Willie Randolph presided over the worst late season collapse in major league history last season from which the Mets never recovered. He was summarily fired.
Cox still has his job. GO FIGURE !
Willie Randolph was hired to take the Mets to the playoffs, he did and still lost his job.
Cox hasn’t sniffed the playoffs since 2005 and yet, he still manages the Braves.
The Mets record under Willie Randolph the last three seasons: 219-174 .557 winning percentage and fired.
The Braves record under Bobby Cox the last three seasons: 199-198 .501 winning percentage and business as usual.
Come on kool aid drinkers, keep guzzling at the fountain of Bobby Cox. I have confidence in YOU !
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 19, 2008 2:45 AM | Link to this
Bobby Cox= ONE TRICK PONY !
Thirteen years later, Braves nation is still trying to ride him to another championship.
By BA
June 19, 2008 2:59 AM | Link to this
Bobby Cox: 2,290 wins, fourth place ALL-TIME. Manager of the year ‘85,’91,’04,’05. 489 games OVER five hundred. We can compare Randolph(who DID get done wrong) in oh, about 2,000 Randolph wins from now. And about five Manager of the year awards from now, because I have a feeling Cox is going to take this beleaguered crowd to the playoffs one way or another.
Sorry Cavey, I couldn’t resist.
By CharlieAlphaBravo
June 19, 2008 3:01 AM | Link to this
Mmmm… Closer Kool-Aid… Gonzo Grape???
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 19, 2008 3:30 AM | Link to this
Bobby Cox, one for five in World Series appearances.
Bobby Cox lost back to back World Series in 1991-1992.
Bobby Cox, 66-66 post season(.500) record.
Bobby Cox has lost more and won fewer World Series than any other manager in MAJOR LEAGUE HISTORY.
Twenty-two other managers have won at least two World Series. Cox is the lone ONE TRICK PONY who has multiple World Series appearances.
Bobby Cox, the most O-V-E-R-R-A-T-E-D manager in the game of baseball.
By Moby Grape
June 19, 2008 3:47 AM | Link to this
BTW, thanks to the denizen who posted the links to the Frenchy video/analysis. Was that you BFIR?
I thought the fact that he needed to start his swing earlier was telling. Gearing up for the fastball means he is less likely to recognize something else before he actually starts swinging. The author didn’t seem to have a lot of hope for a successful restructuring did he?
I also agree that this period of “failure” is probably messing with his mind some. Too bad, he’s a likable kid who obviously wants to succeed. I’m disappointed in his play so far especially this year with the relapse, but I’m not gonna rag on him. I’m sure he’s trying,… perhaps too hard.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 19, 2008 3:52 AM | Link to this
The latest slice of genius from Bobby Cox:
“If we can win this last game, we can make it a good road trip, not great, but good,” Braves manager Bobby Cox said. “We’ve been playing good. We just need to win a few more.”
I knew it, the man has lost all of his marbles. I mean, c’mon. 5-5 on a ten game road trip is to be considered GOOD? 37-37 on the season is GOOD too? .500 baseball is GOOD according to Bobby Cox.
I’m laughing so hard right now, I’m in tears !
By BayAreaSteve
June 19, 2008 4:24 AM | Link to this
Coach, I return to still find you amusing. Thank you.
By BayAreaSteve
June 19, 2008 4:38 AM | Link to this
Scoots, you cannot be older than Coach. You can turn a (contemporary) phrase better than anyone I’ve read.
By Quack Quack
June 19, 2008 5:01 AM | Link to this
Did you know that Coach is and idiot?
P.S. Back tomorrow night with more late-breaking news and insights.
By BayAreaSteve
June 19, 2008 6:11 AM | Link to this
Shamus,
how do you feel about Hampton? I can’t quite figure your position.
By Braveheart
June 19, 2008 6:36 AM | Link to this
Bobby Cox, the most O-V-E-R-R-A-T-E-D manager in the game of baseball.
Lose a Robert, gain a Robert
By ncscoots
June 19, 2008 6:45 AM | Link to this
Scoots, you cannot be older than Coach
Don’t know, man, I’m no spring chicken, LOL. Maybe older in baseball years; you know, kinda like dog years. :-)
Coach is, well, Coach. I’m OK with that.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 19, 2008 6:48 AM | Link to this
“A newspaper is a device for making the ignorant more ignorant and the crazy crazier.”
(H.L. (Henry Lewis) Mencken , U.S. journalist, critic.1949)
Alas - poor Coach, we knew him well !!!
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 19, 2008 6:49 AM | Link to this
“A newspaper is a device for making the ignorant more ignorant and the crazy crazier.”
(H.L. (Henry Lewis) Mencken , U.S. journalist, critic.1949)
Alas - poor Coach, we knew him well !!!
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 19, 2008 6:49 AM | Link to this
“A newspaper is a device for making the ignorant more ignorant and the crazy crazier.”
(H.L. (Henry Lewis) Mencken , U.S. journalist, critic.1949)
Alas - poor Coach, we knew him well !!!
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 19, 2008 6:53 AM | Link to this
Baseball and Life:
Baseball ain’t just a game
Ask any fan, it’s a way of life
Life and Baseball, so much the same
Similarly filled with fun and strife
Bottom of the ninth, bases loaded, two out
Score tied, full count on the batter
He knows, at that moment, with out a doubt
If he fails to hit, nothing in life will matter
To strike out in life, as many do
Brings consequences, not aspired
Just as striking out with count three and two
Is something, clearly, not desired
Stanley Cooper
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)
June 19, 2008 6:56 AM | Link to this
Yes, attack the blogger, hide the truth and drink the kool aid. It won’t kill you but it will fry your brain.
Cox is a clown and the Circus keeps him in business.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 19, 2008 7:11 AM | Link to this
Baseball (My Game)
I can hear the cries of the crowd High up in the stands. Flesh against wood, the bat is now An extension of my hands
The sun beats down from up above Heat waves rise off clay. The weather knows it, as I do That it is time to play.
The pitcher glares from under brim The catcher shifts his feet. To hurl a sphere of white-hot flame Into the summer’s heat.
The first pitch soars right past me I know that’s not my hit. Behind me dust explodes from Inside the catchers mitt.
Perfect pitch is soon to come This I know is true For flame and bat shall yet collide And ball will fly to blue.
Another pitch is catapulted Here in this baseball rapture. Crack of the bat is something No Kodak can capture.
The dirt beneath my shoes, I hear But to the cheers I yield For this is between two beings Myself and my field.
Around the diamond, I do fly A creature of infinite fate No infielder shall stop me ‘till I slide across home plate.
The grass is mine, the fence is mine I’m labeled by no stat. But outfielders will quiver When I step up to bat.
Megan Leighann Cummings
By Shaun
June 19, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this
Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008), do you know how many teams have had better than a .500 record in a season on the road since 2000?
It’s 86 out of 270. So a .500 road trip isn’t bad at all, especially considering how well the Braves have played at home this season.
And what do you expect Cox to say? What would satisfy you? “We stink. We should be dominating on the road.”?
Twenty-two other managers have won at least two World Series. Cox is the lone ONE TRICK PONY who has multiple World Series appearances.
Before 2006, you could say the same thing about Tony LaRussa.
Leo Durocher has only one Series win in multiple appearances.
Earl Weaver only won one Series in multiple appearances.
Ned Hanlon never won a Series in four tries.
Cap Anson never won one in five tries.
Charlie Grimm never won one in four tries.
Jim Leyland has one win in a couple of tries.
Frank Selee never won one in six trips…yes, six!
Whitey Herzog only won one in three trips.
Joe Cronin was 0-for-2.
Mike Hargrove is 0-for-2.
Hughie Jennings never won in four trips.
…alright, I think I’ve made my point.
I suppose every single one of these managers is overrated, though they are all in the top 40 in all-time managerial wins.
By KC
June 19, 2008 8:21 AM | Link to this
It worked out… but I was more than a little apprehensive when Bobby put Bennett in for the 9th.
Not that anyone else in that pen has been lights out recently… but I think there was at least 2 or 3 better choices than Bennett.
The guy I really would have like to see in that situation is now at AAA (again)… Phil Stockman.
By Will
June 19, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this
Reyes is really starting to pitch well so that is great news. One other thing that i have to mention is i find it strangely funny that for all the times this year we have laughed at the Mets, 4 game swept the Mets, called them classless (which they are) for firing manager, sad how bad the Mets are, etc…. then you take a look at the standings and the Braves are still TIED with them!
By TURTSNAP
June 19, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this
Guys, Reyes is growing up before our eyes. While we were so frustrated last year with his inconsistency, he has drawn off of that experience and is evolving into a clutch pitcher. Last night, he didn’t have his best stuff. He threw 102 pitches, 55 strikes, 47 balls. Last year, when Reyes pitched in a game like this, he gives up 4 or 5 runs and the Braves lose. Tonight, he gave up 1 earned run, and really shouldn’t have been charged with any earned runs, as Infante’s play should’ve been an error. Good game for Reyes last night!
By Del
June 19, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
With the earrival of a decent closer, now if we could just get the two black holes at first anf LF fixed we would be in really good shape. I love Texs glove at first, but his hitting so far leaves a lot to be desired so I guess we will just have to wait him out. LF is the real problem. Personally I think that the only thing that is going to impress Jeff F to change his plate discipline is a stint in Richmond. Bring up Anderson and send JF down. Maybe this will convince him to get serious about this thing. Anderson would be one heck of an addition to our lineup as leadoff man!!
By Epinephrine
June 19, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this
Err, KC, you mean the 8th?
Today’s game is pretty huge. Can the Braves take two road series in a row? Is Morton the real deal-or are he and Campillo going to be gone for Glavine and Hampton? CCan bats other than Chipper continue to step up?
If we get a good performance out of Morton, and win the series, that is just huge for coming back on a homestand against two inferior teams. Meanwhile, the Phils have to go out to Anaheim. By the time we play them, we could actually be within striking distance.
Also, just awesome to have Gonzo back. I said all spring he would make a huge difference. Last night showed why I love the guy so much. If Soriano can ever get his body together, we are going to have one heck of a pen.
By TURTSNAP
June 19, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this
Epinephrine I agree with the hugeness of today. I hope the Braves can build some momentum, feed off of Gonzo’s emotions. One thing though, the Angels have to travel to Philly, I was hoping it would’ve been the other way around.
By DAP
June 19, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this
caveman i wont ignore, you buddy! what’s that? (love talking to myself) your not the ignored blogger? the blogger that shall remain nameless for now is outrageous, and does not even deserve responses. where would you begin? there are so many fallacies in his posts, the best, most valid response to him is “no sir, blogger.”
By Lew
June 19, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this
I don’t know this for a fact, but I would be willing to believe that Bobby Cox presided over the Braves’ best month as well as their worst. Whenever someone manages a team for as long as Bobby Cox has been with the Braves, it stands to reason he would see the highest and the lowest points. It’s called the Law Of Averages.
By Efrim
June 19, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this
I thought this was hilarious. I’ve heard this about Dunn before too. Good player, but someone is going to overpay for him this offseason and I hope it isn’t the Braves.
From MLBTraderumors.com:
It certainly doesn’t sound like the Blue Jays will be going after Adam Dunn while J.P. Ricciardi is at the helm. Check out this interview Ricciardi did with Mike Wilner of The Fan 590.
First a fan calls up and asks Ricciardi whether the Jays have interest in Dunn. Ricciardi replies that he’s not interested in Dunn. Then he says:
“Maybe we have more information and know the player a little more than the average fan.”
Interesting. Another fan calls up and says he’s surprised Ricciardi would be so quick to dismiss a power bat like Dunn. Ricciardi really goes off on Dunn this time:
“He’s a lifetime .230-.240 hitter that strikes out a ton and hits home runs. Did you know the guy doesn’t really like baseball that much? Did you know the guy doesn’t have a passion to play the game that much? I don’t think you’d be very happy if we brought Adam Dunn here…We’ve done our homework on guys like Adam Dunn and there’s a reason why we don’t want Adam Dunn.”
Aren’t General Managers not suppose to talk about another teams player? I thought that was a rule. Anyway, I heard Dunn didn’t even like baseball and had no passion for the game. Like I said, I hope the Braves don’t go near him.
By McFann©
June 19, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
Great win last night!
That game was looking ugly there for a little while (like, say…whenever the Rangers scored. That Marlin Byrd has caused some trouble…but the way they tied the game was nasty!).
Nice to have Gonzalez back! (That rock was different, but hey, whatever works…)
I wish Campillo was starting today instead of tomorrow. Because, since Camp likes Corky, Bobby will prob’ly put McCann in there today. After that performance last night, I’d say McCann needs a day off—and this is a DGANG, anyway. Besides, he’s played in 66 of 73 games (63 starts). That’s a lot of games…
By Lew
June 19, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
Shaun-And Gene Mauch, widely considered to be the innovator of the double switch and a great manager in his own right, never went to the Series.
By Austin
June 19, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this
I have a hunch that Coach isn’t too fond of Bobby.
By DAP
June 19, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this
Lew it stands to reason he would see the highest and the lowest points
it stand to reason? to REASON?!? c’mon lew, know your audience.
By Supes
June 19, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this
If the Braves somehow win today’s game and finish .500 roadtrip, it’ll be a lot better than expected.
I hope they can get it done. Charlie has to be as good or better than he was against the Angels. I’d like to see his “vaunted” curveball, hopefully he’ll be able to throw it today.
People who think this Braves team is “complete” as it is, you’ve lost all credibility. This team is full of holes. Thankfully Chipper, Mac and lately the starting pitchers are carrying them.
A trade for one of the giant’s young stud pitcher…Luncecum (would be awesome), and I’d be willing to trade Jordan Schaifer in that deal if I’m Frank Wren if that is what it takes to get it done.
By raindawg722
June 19, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this
McFann, I wish that Campillo was starting today also because I am going to the game tomorrow night and I would like to see Morton pitch. Not to mention it will be mid-90s by game time today which won’t be easy on McCann and I believe it was Morton’s last start in Richmond that he had a shutout going but then ran out of gas on hot, muggy afternoon and got touched for a couple of runs in the sixth … or something like that.
Also, since the Mariners released Campillo, I would imagine that they are pretty familiar with his tendencies and he won’t have the element of surprise like he has had thus far with most teams that he has faced.
By McFann©
June 19, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
MAYDAY!! MAYDAY!!
Soto goes 2-4 with a double and a solo homer in the Cubs’ 5-4 loss to Tampa Bay!
(He also hit into two double-plays.)
By McFann©
June 19, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this
NO MORE BOBBY
Do you still believe what you wrote at 9:58?
By Nate
June 19, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
nice to see Reyes proving he belongs here, and great to see a legitimate closer nail down the ninth. Seems like there’s been a question mark at closer since Smoltz moved back to the rotation. It will be a huge lift if Gonzales can stay healthy and effective. We might be able to salvage this season after all.
I still think the Braves need to find someone with some pop for left field as soon as possible, and if in late July they are still in the hunt try and snag a front of the rotation starter that can pitch in the playoffs.
By MGL
June 19, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
Tex so far on this road trip - BA .147, OBP .275.
By McFann©
June 19, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this
raindawg722—
I didn’t know it was gonna be that hot. OK, now I really wish Campillo was starting!
Or, heck, Bobby could just give McCann two days…
And good point about the Mariners. That should be int’resting.
So Tex is gonna DH today? Why? His glove is more important than his bat right now. Huh…
By Daybed Wagmoe
June 19, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
Bill Shanks made his weekly phone-in interview with Athens’ radio station 960 The Ref. Here’s the link for the 25-minute clip, and thanks to Bill McAuliffe for posting it for our listening pleasure.
By Lew
June 19, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
DAP-Reason is reason and the inability or failure of some to see it does not negate the concept nor the situation.
By Big Easy
June 19, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
McFann©
No to Bobby giving Mac 2 days rest. Not only do we need his bat in the line-up (in which case, it would make more sense to DH Mac, but we don’t have a 3rd catcher if something should happen to the Corkster), but because we really need the experience of BMac catching Morton. Mac knows how to call a game as good as anyone in the majors. Having a really good catcher can make a pitcher better.
Morton needs Mac’s brain behind the plate as much as we need his bat in the lineup (even with his recent mini-slump).
~E~
By ernesto
June 19, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
Are the line ups out? I think it would make sense to DH McCann today. More sense than DHing Tex.
After all, Corky’s bat may be a liability but Norton hasn’t been exactly tearing it up and his D at first is a big dropoff from Tex’s.
By Lew
June 19, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this
Big Easy-Dude, What mini slump are you referring to? Over the past ten games, McCann has hit in seven of the ten, had eleven hits (three multi hit games) and has raised his batting average from .303 to .306.
By Moby Grape
June 19, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this
Actually, even if they lose the game today this road trip will be more successful than we all thought it would be. So a win would be great obviously, but I’m not gonna get too awful bummed if they lose. Having said that…GO BRAVES!!
By fastasballs
June 19, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this
It would be nice to see the offense put up some early runs & give Morton something to work with today.
The Giants are NOT going to trade Lincecum. Young, potential CY Young award winners are not going to be traded.
The starters even with all the injuries have not been the problem for the Braves. Lack of timely hitting, ability to play sound baseball & lack of production from the corner outfield spots have been the problem. The bullpen gets a little blame the past month, but they have been worn into the ground so what can you expect?
If they are going to make a trade they need an outfielder or two, depending on if Kotsay returns any time soon. Also a set up man if nobody in the pen shows they can handle that role. Who knows if Soriano will contibute or not.
It was calming last night to see Gonzo out there closing it down.
Jo Jo was impressive in the fact that he could have easily given up a few large innings, but managed to trust his stuff enough to not allow any real damage. Last year if he walked a few the next guy up got a few fat fastballs to hit because he wanted to get ahead of them.
This season hasn’t beem exactly what we had hoped for & there is still plenty of time, but at least we have seen Jo Jo, JJJ & hopefully Morton shore up the rotation for years to come. Their performances this season makes Wren’s job a lot easier over the winter.
By Lew
June 19, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this
Excuse me-McCann actually has FOUR multi hit games in his past ten games.
By BTech
June 19, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Visit BlueTechWireless for all of your wireless needs! The best products at the lowest price. Visit now for your chance to win a free iPod Nano!
By Overlord-D-Day
June 19, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
Whats the situation on prado? Is he coming back next week? or is it going to take longer?
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 19, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
DAP
Yeah—the ramblings of the desperate fool have begun to sound even more tired than usual.
I find it interesting that he incorporates a “Go Braves” in his name yet is so clearly rooting against them unless they are following his “advice”.
I haven’t heard him discuss his love of Norton lately either. It is typical of the narcissist ego to try to smoke screen the subject of their own errors by loudly proclaiming his perceived shortcomings of others.
It almost sounds like a dislike of someone b/c of their age, which is probably the same as his own.
He obviously has some jealousy issues as well as he has decided to call himself by a moniker which is more aptly bestowed on the subject of his ridicule.
Again, funny that his months long touting of his prized pickup have dropped as fast as Norton’s avg. It just goes to show that he doesn’t have what it takes to “coach” a team longer than a week w/o losing any and all respect from his players.
Kinda of reminds me of that movie “The American President” where Bob Rumson (Richard Dreyfuss) kept campaigning for the Presidency and ended every talk with “I’m Bob Rumson and I’m running for President”. He just kept telling more and more outlandish lies and crap with every move of his lips. Finally Andrew Shepard (Michael Douglas) fires back and ends his statement with “I’m Andrew Shepard and I “AM” the President!!”
Well to our local village idiot I would just like to add:
“I’m Bobby Cox and I “AM” the Coach of the Braves!!”
Now — how do you like them APPLES !!
By McFann©
June 19, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this
Big E—
I know that Bobby will not give McCann two games off at the present time because he’s not hurt (as far as we know), and they really need his bat. (Don’t want him to take two games off in a row, either.)
McCann’s not in a slump (as Lew pointed out). His only problem at the plate lately is that he’s struck out seven times in his last seven games, and that he busted his hitting streak last night. Other then that, he’s been great.
You’re right that Morton needs 3BMac back there—I just wish Morton was starting tomorrow so McCann could take this DGANG off.
The reason I wish he had today off is because of what happened behind the plate last night. And it’s gonna be a hot one in Texas today.
By Shaun
June 19, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this
Lew, regarding your 10:02 post, it also stands to reason that if Cox shouldn’t get all the credit for all those regular season wins he also should not get the blame for the playoff losses. But the anti-Cox crowd doesn’t seem to get that. It’s always the talent that won in the regular season but the playoff losses were Bobby Cox’s fault. What kind of sense does that make?
By Big Easy
June 19, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
Dunno what happened to my reply, so sorry if it ends up posting twice, but:
Lew, McFann©—
That was said tongue-in-cheek (referring to his horrible 0-3 last night). Dude has been locked in, pretty much all year. And, without his and Chipper’s contributions this year, we would be cellar-dwellers. Those two, along with Yunel, are the only regulars who are producing with any consistency.
~E~
By Lew
June 19, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this
Shaun-Sense apparently doesn’t enter the equation for some people.
By Braveheart
June 19, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox, back to yesterday’s discussion. You said that you think he has shown a regression in his range, throwing, and hitting but at the same time completely dismissed that he may be playing hurt.
As Scoots said yesterday, the base of a hitter is his legs. Range is directly affected by legs. Throwing power is dependent upon the back leg. Throwing accuracy is dependent on the front leg. Do you still want to completely dismiss that there’s something wrong with his legs?
If it was just his hitting that had gone awry, then okay, don’t blame the legs too much. But then you took it a step further and said his hitting, throws and range are in serious decline.
What’s more logical: that all of his skills have prematurely declined at 24 years old or that a leg injury is affecting his hitting, range and throws?
By BillsNV
June 19, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this
Mike Hampton made the most overpaid list on Yahoo.com. I liked the poem they wrote for him.
SP: Mike Hampton, Atlanta, $15.98 million – This is the farewell to Hampton, whose eight-year, $121 million contract expires after this season (with the requisite $6 million buyout). In his honor, we present a poem:
Hamstring, elbow, Tommy John Disabled list you’re always on Mr. Hampton, you’re the best Working on three years’ rest
By AGTfan
June 19, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
Shaun and Braveheart Good posts about BC and about Frenchy, but the people you are dealing with aren’t dealing with rational thought. They’re haters, pure and simple. The BC haters will always believe that all Braves losses are BC’s fault and all Braves wins are in spite of him. The Frenchy haters refuse to consider any logical explanations for his problems this year. They WANT it to be HIS FAULT. They WANT it to be a lack of SKILL or COACHABILIY. THEY WANT HIM TO FAIL. Who know’s why? I don’t. I bet they don’t either. Maybe it’s because he was on the cover of SI and they weren’t.
You two guys consistently make good logical well reasoned posts. You don’t seriously expect them to have any impact on the completely irrational haters, do you?
By ernesto
June 19, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
Did someone on this blog really suggest sending Jo-Jo or JJJ for Winn?
?????????????????????????
By McFann©
June 19, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
Big E—
I had a feeling you were joking. Yeah, wasn’t that awful last night? Sheesh!
; )
By Braves20
June 19, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this
AGTfan - re: your 12:40 post. Add the Mike Hampton haters to that bunch. Seem to think the guy revels in being injured.
By Quack Quack
June 19, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
I had a feeling you were joking. Yeah, wasn’t that awful last night? Sheesh! ; )McFann
Yeah, ol’ McFatty is just fallin’ apart lately. You need a new hero, how ‘bout McNorton or McBoyer, they kinda need some cheering up right now.
By Efrim
June 19, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this
Mariners fire manager John McLaren.
Why now? I’m pretty sure that team won’t be good for years. Maybe we can get Felix from them? Haha. I think M fans would tear down Safeco Field if that happened.
By ernesto
June 19, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this
Here is part of Dunn’s response to being trashed by the Toronot GM
“It p** me off. It does. I just told you it p** me off when people who have no idea what the * goes on around here and then say – I don’t give a * what people say in this clubhouse, I don’t care, besides what’s said in here. I don’t care about the perception people have of me, if anything happens, it looks like I ain’t going to Toronto. I can eliminate one team.
I’m not converting my dollars into looneys and twoneys just yet.”
Twoneys! Ha!
By David
June 19, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
AGTFan - not everyone who is disappointed with or frustrated in Frenchy are “haters”. The guy is young and talented and is likely to improve. But he needs to be dropped in the batting order AND/OR benched for a few days of rest AND/OR sent for some instruction in the minors. That will HELP the kid! Any sane, rational, non-stat-geek can see the guys is struggling and regressing.
By Austin
June 19, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
BLANCO LEADING OFF!!
By McFann©
June 19, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
Quack Quack—
Har har!
Miller’s catching.
Later.
By Efrim
June 19, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
Chris (CT): Jim Callis said that Julio Teheran had the best arm in the Braves organization. That can’t be true, right? I mean he is 17 and Cole Rohrbough and Tommy Hanson have better upside.
Keith Law: (1:30 PM ET ) Teheran has the best arm in their organization, absolutely.
By The Goche
June 19, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this
rosenthal’s latest
he geniously makes a case for how the Angels could use a bat like Tex, but how it makes no sense for their team and it would almost certainly never happen either.
I love how he throws out a trade idea that even he says is both unlikely and unwise.
By Efrim
June 19, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
Finally, Cox dumped Frenchy to 7th and is hitting Kelly 5th. Blanco leading off and Escobar hitting 2nd. Maybe this is because Heap is getting the day off, but I think keeping Jeff down in the order is the smart way to go.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 19, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
ernesto I think they did last night…….but its OK, maybe they were celebrating braves win and got drunk……It happens.
PLEASE…….NO MORE DEALS, BRAVES ARE COMPLETE.
By KC
June 19, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
*Epinephrine,: Yes, I did mean the *8th inning. Sorry.
By Renegator
June 19, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
Austin
Don’t tease us like that.
By ernesto
June 19, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
what’s the line up for today?
By Overlord-D-Day
June 19, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this
Yankees sign Ponson.
Angels interested in TEX.
By Greg in TN
June 19, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this
Afternoon denizens…
A couple thoughts before 18 men go out to bake in the hot Texas sun.
Not enough superlatives to go around in terms of discussing the job last night by the pitching staff. Jo-Jo went 7 and really deserved the win. He’s trusting his stuff now, which is in marked contrast to the outings we saw from him a year ago and has dropped his ERA three-quarters of a point in his last two appearances, both road starts.
No need to go to Wisconsin for your cheese gang, seems like Mike Gonzalez brought plenty of his own to the hill last night in Arlington. Love the rocking motion and it seemed much more pronounced last night then when we saw him a year ago. Then again, I can understand him being as amped up as he was going into the final frame last night. I was very pleasantly surprised by the zip on his heater and I thought the 3-2 curve to Boggs was a nice touch. It’s tough not to get excited after seeing his first appearance back, but I am also mindful that he’s still on the mend from TJ surgery. Regardless, what a return. Very nice indeed.
And now the eyes of Texas and Braves Nation fall on Charlie Morton on get away day. I’ll be interested to see how Charlie attacks the Ranger lineup and how the Rangers adjust to what they’ve seen in terms of his previous start against LA.
Meanwhile, I guess I’ll toss the last shovel-full of dirt on the managerial term of Willie Randolph in Flushing. Timing didn’t seem to please many of the Gothamites, and the mets faithful were quick to sing the praises of pitching coach Rick Peterson, which also got the ax. Jerry Manuel is very similar to Randolph in that he’s got a very laid back managerial approach. He has experience in piloting a franchise in a major market with his time in Chicago.
I think in time Minaya will look back on this as a mistake, but it all depends on who will ultimately replace Randolph, but in the interim, it’s entertaining theater to be sure.
By TennesseePaul
June 19, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
Did I mention the fact that Bobby Cox presided over the WORST MONTH of baseball in the 43 year history of Atlanta Braves baseball back in June of 2006 where the Braves went 6-21
—Coach (I’m back on the Kool-aid after being off it during a 6 game losing streak)
Fact is, Coach is wrong. The worst month in Atlanta Braves history came in 1988. In fact, it’s the single worst month in Braves history dating back to 1900. In April 1988, under the guiding hand of Manager Chuck Tanner the team spilled out of the gates with a 3 and 16 record. Good for a .158 winning percentage.
And as for the best single month Atlanta Braves records, well the top spot goes to Bobby Cox. Give the man a hand. In June of 2002 Bobby Cox lead the Atlanta Braves to a 21 and 5 record for an .808 winning percentage, second highest winning percentage dating back to the days of Milwaukee. In 1957 the Milwaukee Braves opened the season with an April record of 9 and 2 for an .818 winning percentage. It’s the only single month record of more than 10 games played since 1953 that is better than the June 2002 record under Bobby Cox.
For the record, here they are…
So let’s also give Lew a hand, he correctly noted Bobby resided over a top winning Month. Quite a few actually.
By The Goche
June 19, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
How mad do you think the Braves are to be playing during Portugal and Germany’s Euro match!
Ok, probably not that mad, but I could do without it.
Tex is Portuguese in heritage, you think he’s a big Christiano Ronaldo fan?
By AGTfan
June 19, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
David I agree. You can count me as one of those who is disappointed and frustrated with the year Frenchy is having. Lot’s of people are rightfully disappointed with the way he’s playing right now. I doubt any of us are as frustrated and disappointed as he is. I wasn’t refering to most of the posters who are concerned about his play, but to a few who go beyond fan frustration and into the realm of haters.
I suspect that he’s playing hurt and the Braves are hoping he can make it to the all-star break and get some rest then. I don’t think dropping him in the batting order helps him or the braves. Do you really want a free swinger who doesn’t really work the count batting in front of the pitcher? I think that if the Braves felt that the other options you listed were good for the Braves and good for Frenchy, that’s what they would do. And they might yet.
By Austin
June 19, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
By MGL
June 19, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
Watching Gonzo last night was probably the most fun inning I have seen all year. It was great to see how this kid was so visibly excited to be there. Plus he got off to a great start back!!
By P-Town Brave
June 19, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
Did Bobby fall asleep and someone else stole the lineup card and filled it out?!
Is hell finally freezing over…Blanco leading off, Escobar back to the 2-hole…KJ close to where he should be…Francine dropped in the order…
I do believe the apocalypse is upon us!
By Efrim
June 19, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
Mark (NC): Heyward has been going nuts in the Braves minor league. How long before you see him up in the big leagues?
Keith Law: (1:49 PM ET ) Two years. There’s a lot of power to come there, too.
By MGL
June 19, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
Did someone forget to wake up Carroll??
By fastasballs
June 19, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
I think the only person Tex is a fan of is himself.
By Shaun
June 19, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
Ponson’s record and ERA was smoke and mirrors. He gave up 15 runs in his final three starts with Texas. He gave up four or more runs in six of his nine starts. The games in which he pitched well were against Kansas City, Seattle and Minnesota. He has yet to start a game this season against a team that currently ranks higher than sixth in its league in runs scored. Ponson wasn’t fooling any hitters. Opposing batters hit .307/.353/.429 against him so far this season.
By fastasballs
June 19, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
I’ll have to give some props to Cox for doing something different with the batting order. It’s little easier when the pitcher is taken out of the mix, but something out of the norm for sure.
By Carroll Rogers
June 19, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
MGL, that’s a good question. but i am awake - thunderstorms took care of that this morning - and been at the ballpark gathering news for you fine people. new blog is up.
By Help
June 19, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
Can somebody regularly post updates for us workers without streamlining internet ability? Like every inning or so, especially how Morton and the new lineup is doing?
By ncscoots
June 19, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
I guess with Heap out and no pitcher, even Bobby couldn’t bring himself to hit Blanco behind Corky Miller, LOL.
Makes sense, today, at least. Blanco has shown signs of making some adjustments the last 10 games, and Braves need Kelly’s pop lower down with Norton in the lineup and Francoeur’s travails.
But let’s not get carried away and think Gregor’s up top because he’s a better leadoff option than anybody else. And I know some of you are, LOL!
Poor Brandon Jones, sandwiched between a struggling Francoeur and a futile Corky. Might get two pitches to hit today, but I wouldn’t count on many more.
By TennesseePaul
June 19, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
And Chipper dips below .400. Sitting at .398 right now. Hope he goes 3-4 today… I’ll take 1-2 with 3 walks as well. Just so long as the Braves win.
By The Goche
June 19, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
I think the only person Tex is a fan of is himself.
Ouch, sort of JP Riccardi moment there.
Nah, I’m sure your right, you would know.
By Bobby's Cox
June 19, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
frenchy leadoff walk?
am i daydreaming?
By Bobby's Cox
June 19, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
Scoots:
great reasoning on Blanco hitting leadoff today.
I think blanco’s gonna struggle in that spot. However, it gives KJ a chance to hit lower in the lineup where he hits best. I think BC is seeing the light.
And that draws light on the Winn trade talks. If Winn can hit leadoff & play center, it puts players back in their natural roles, i.e. Escobar at 2, KJ at 6 or 7, and maybe would even allow Frenchy to hit 7 or 8 to get things straightened out without the pressures to perform.
I wasn’t too big of the Winn talks as I rather see rookies, especially Anderson get a shot at center & leadoff first, but it makes a lot of sense for the rest of the lineup.
Nice post scoots.
By Bobby's Cox
June 19, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
As I type that last post, Blanco draws a 2 out walk & steals second, goes to 3rd on a bad throw by Salty.
I love it!
By Coach Smith
June 19, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this
Even though he struck out, this is why Blanco is a good leadoff guy…
He has had looooong at bats everytime up…
By kirknga
June 19, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
Wow! Well perhaps it wasn’t the best idea to let Morton come back for the 6th, or stay in after the single.
By Coach Smith
June 19, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
That a way to blow ALL possible momentum and probably the game…
The Braves just can’t seem to stand prosperity…
That will sadly most likely do it for today…
Had a chance to get a .500 road trip and come home only 5 behind the Philthies…but the pen strikes again
By Coach Smith
June 19, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
All of a sudden this team looks completely lifeless again…It is maddening!
By Braves Fan
June 19, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
The bullpen is a joke. Besides Mike Gonzalez which looked great on his season debut the rest of the bullpen is clearly AAA level at least. We are losing so many games because of them and solution doesn’t appear to be on the works.