AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > June > 20 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USRoad disaster averted, now Braves need to make hay
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Braves return from the road having avoided a disaster the trip threatened to become after the sweep at Wrigley Field started the four-city trek across America.
But 4-6 trips are not going to reel in the Phillies, especially since the Braves’ Turner Field magic began to (predictably) wear off on the last homestand. Nobody thought they were going to win four of every five at home all season, did they?
Anyway, now is the time to make a bit of hay for the Bravos, who have the reeling Mariners in town for a three-game series starting tonight. The Mariners, who fired their GM last week, then fired their manager a couple days ago.
The Mariners, who are 14-37 with a 4.97 ERA and 3.5 runs per game since April 23, and a 6-18 record and 5.46 ERA in their past 24 road games.
Bottom line, Braves need to sweep the series to assure a solid six-game homestand, because Milwaukee comes in next week to finish the homestand, and the Brewers are starting to hit their stride, currently on a 16-6 roll.
But let’s not kid ourselves into thinking a sweep of the Mariners will be easy. Not with Erik Bedard going tonight. Not only is the former Baltimore ace better than his record (4-4 indicates), but he’s a lefty.
And the Braves have struggled mightily against plenty of lesser lefties, which is part of the reason you hear them increasingly connected to trade rumors. From people I talk to and trust, the Randy Winn rumor last week was unfounded; Braves aren’t interested in an outfielder who makes $8 mill, hits for little power and doesn’t throw well.
But the Ryan Freel rumor might - repeat, might — have some legs. Freel makes less than half of what Winn makes and can play a solid center field, which has some attraction for a Braves team that simply doesn’t know what it’s going to get from sore-backed Mark Kotsay the rest of the way.
Braves rookie OF Gregor Blanco has been solid on many counts, but the speedster is hitting just .179 against lefties with 15 strikeouts in 39 at-bats, and he’s a team-worst 9-for-45 (.200) with runners in scoring position. (He’s hit .281 with a .391 OBP in 135 at-bats against righties.)
Freel is hitting .339 (21-for-62) against lefties with six doubles, four walks, seven strikeouts and a .388 OBP and .435 slugging percentage.
No, I don’t like the way Freel leaps for every ball when a more controlled approach would benefit him on some plays. And he has little power. But dude does play with a fire. And, hey, he’s hitting .298 overall, including .356 with runners on base and .423 (11-for-26) with runners in scoring position.
From the leadoff spot, he’s hitting .301 with a .363 OBP in 83 at-bats this season. And not getting as much playing time as he wants, which he’s said publicly. Reds might even pick up a bit of his modest salary in a trade.
The lefty thing: While the Braves’ batting average vs. lefties is a middle-of-the-road .269 (seventh in the NL), what’s more reflective and telling is their on-base percentage against lefties, a meager .339, 11th in the NL. And even worse, their anemic .378 slugging against lefties, 14th in the league, ahead of only the Nats and Padres.
The Braves clearly need another right-handed bat, and soon.
Against righties, the Braves are as strong as any team in the NL. They rank second in average (.273), first in OBP (.353), and second in slugging (.443, a whopping 65 points better than their slugging percentage vs. lefties).
Why are they so much worse against lefties than we expected they’d be entering the season? Well, start with the cleanup hitter and the right fielder. Mark Teixeira is batting just .216 (21-for-96) with six extra-base hits and a .667 OPS in 97 at-bats vs. lefties, compared to .294 with 20 extra-base hits and an .863 OPS in 177 at-bats vs. righties.
This is particularly odd given that the switch-hitting Teixeira has hit lefties better than righties in the past. Last season he batted .357 with a 1.000 OPS vs. lefties, and .282 with a .946 OPS vs. righties.
In 2006, he hit .302 with a .977 vs. lefties, and .275 with an .853 OPS vs. righties.
Good luck trying to figure that one out.
Meanwhile, the increasingly maligned Jeff Francoeur is batting just .240 with a .690 OPS in 96 at-bats against lefties, compared to .259 with a .728 OPS vs. righties.
This, too, is a big change from his previous numbers (so is Francoeur’s production with runners on, with RISP, in close-and-late, etc., but that’s another story).
In 2007, Francoeur hit .317 with an .853 OPS vs. lefties, and .281 with a .747 OPS vs. righties.
In 2006, he hit .292 with an .853 OPS vs. lefties, and .248 with a .702 OPS vs. lefties.
In his rookie half-season in 2005, Francoeur hit a jaw-dropping .379 with a 1.211 OPS vs. lefties (did he really do that?) and .272 with a .771 OPS vs. righties.
Again, trying figuring out that reversal of fortunes this season.
So that’s two key hitters the Braves count upon, both of them struggling mightily vs. lefties after hitting them appreciably better than righties in the past.
Speaking of Francoeur…. At the risk of looking like we’re piling on, Frenchy is hitting .241 with runners on base, .233 with runners in scoring position (RISP), and .222 in late-and-close situations.
Very low for a young guy who was almost always a solid clutch hitter in his first three seasons, even when his other numbers might have dipped at times.
Last season he hit .303 with runners on, .341 with RISP, .312 in late-and-close situations.
In 2006 he hit .288 with runners on, .320 with RISP, .304 in late-and-close (this in a season in which he hit just .260 overall, much like this season).
And in 2005, the rookie phenom set the bar really, really hit by hitting .321 with runners on, .338 with RISP (including .359 with two outs), and .286 in close-and-late situations.
We didn’t even mention the bases-laoded woes (he’s hitless in his last 14 at-bats with bases loaded, 2-for-18 for the season, after going 8-for-22 with bases loaded in 2007). OK, now we mentioned that, too.
Ridgway vs. Stockman: Don’t ask me why lefty Jeff Ridgway was kept instead of Phil Stockman. I, like most of you, was fairly certain that Ridgway would be the one sent down when Mike Gonzalez was activated (four lefties?)
It’s not as though Ridgway is out of options or anything. And if Stockman “needed to pitch,” then frankly I don’t understand why he couldn’t pitch at the major league level - you know, for the Braves?
The big Aussie has made 10 career appearances in the majors, four in 2006 and six this season. In those 10 appearances, Stockman has allowed five hits, one run and eight walks with 13 strikeouts in 11-1/3 innings. A 0.79 ERA and .139 opponents’ average in his big league career.
Ridgway? He’s made seven appearances in the bigs (three last season, four this season) and allowed 11 hits, nine runs, three homers and one walk with two strikeouts in 4-2/3 innings. A 17.36 RA and .440 opponnents’ average.
A tune: Rode the motorcycle over to Athens yesterday, just like to get the good vibe of that town now and again. Especially with the lads of Rapid Eye Movement in Atlanta this weekend for a big show at Lakewood on Saturday, touring behind their stellar Accelerate album.
But I want to go back a bit to one of my handful of cream-of-the-crop favorites songs of theirs.
”BEGIN THE BEGIN” by R.E.M.
Birdie in the hand for life’s rich demand
The insurgency began and you missed it
I looked for it and I found it
Miles standish proud, congratulate me
A philanderer’s tie, a murderer’s shoe
Life’s rich demand creates supply in the hand
Of the powers, the only vote that matters
Silence means security silence means approval
On Zenith, on the tv, tiger run around the tree
Follow the leader, run and turn into butter
Let’s begin again, begin the begin
Let’s begin again like Martin Luther zen
The mythology begins the begin
Answer me a question I can’t itemize
I can’t think clearly, look to me for reason
It’s not there, I can’t even rhyme here in the begin
A philanderer’s tie, a murderer’s shoe
Example: the finest example is you
Birdie in the hand for life’s rich demand
The insurgency began and you missed it
I looked for it and I found it
Miles standish proud, congratulate me
A philanderer’s tie, a murderer’s shoe
Let’s begin again, begin the begin
Lets begin again
Comments
By StingerSplash
June 20, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
Now that’s the way to start a weekend, with one of REM’s rare gems. Very nice call, Mr. O’Brien, very nice call.
By uncmike
June 20, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this
Freel sounds like a great idea. The Braves need a sparkplug. Dave, any prayer of Jordan S. being brought up!
By Jason
June 20, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
DOB, great tune choice, that’s one of my alltime favorite REM offerings. I’ll be at Lakewood Saturday night.
Also, I’m taking the family to the Ted tonight and it will be my son’s first Braves’ game (he’s 3 and 1/2). Even with the overdone theme park atmosphere (a chopping cow for god’s sake?)at Turner Field, I’m still incredibly excited to take my son to his first game. Since he’s only 3, I know it’s a bigger deal for me, but you can bet he’ll have a framed photo to mark the day in his bedroon for year’s to come. Also, he’s young enough that I don’t have to explain the Ridgeway/Stockman situation to him!
By DAP
June 20, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
yeah, the quote by bobby about sending stockman down because he needed to be pitching was idiotic. sometimes, there is no point in talking to bobby, hes not going to give you a straight answer, and that definitely wasnt one.
i get the feeling we would be just about unstoppable if we had tex and francouer hitting like they were last year.
thanx for the new blog, DOB. glad to have you back!
By Saltywoody
June 20, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
F-R-E-E, that spells Free… Frenchy’s crappy in the clutch, baby…
Sorry, song’s stuck in my head. At least it’s not an image of the UPS Whiteboard guy.
By DonCoburleone
June 20, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
Seriously though, Ridgway?????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
By Jersey Gil
June 20, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
Welcome back DOB….Bring us some luck..please
By BossLady
June 20, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
Wow, how did I undertand that? Nice blog DOB thanks
By beachcomber
June 20, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
DOB - Good have you back and as always you make too much sense re: Stockman (should be up), Winn (too expensive) and Freel leaving his feet too often - sort of a right handed Jim Edmonds. That said, another right handed bat seems needed.
Let’s get 2 of 3 this weekend!
By Novice Ned
June 20, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
Huddy and the Who? need to keep it up while the bats remain silent.
And, by the way, how do you make hay? I’m assuming it is a fast/efficient process. Strange saying. I’m sure many here understand it’s origins.
Lastly, is there something about Stockman that rubs teammates or coaches the wrong way? Does he complain with every hang-nail? Did he have visa problems flying from the AL to the NL park? Does he do strange things to a stuffed kangaroo before games? Did he throw a boomerang at Glenn Hubbard? WTF?
By Overlord-D-Day
June 20, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
McFann If I ever get 3 feet from bobby on any given day, you should see a headline on this website “Future HOFer manager passes away, he got beaten to death by unknown fan”.
By DonCoburleone
June 20, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
And DOB no talk about the 2 huge starts (at least in my opinion) for Reyes and Morton in Texas? I said before that series started if those two came out of that park against that team with respectable outings I’d start to believe… Well they both did (I know I know, Milton Bradley didn’t play, but still) and I was very impressed. Morton did alot better than I thought he would and Jo Jo was borderline dominant. Mad props to those two for their performance…
By BravesFanInRockies
June 20, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this
Welcome back, DOB.
I’m not psyched about the Freel talk. Sure, he may be available, but they need pop from the right side, which as you said Freel doesn’t offer. Murton or Willingham seem like better and younger and no doubt cheaper alternatives that would address a genuine need.
If Blanco is so awful vs. lefties, why not give Infante a few more ABs in those situations?
By bigchiefrg
June 20, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
What’s the newest on Hampton and Soriano DOB?
Im sorry, I just couldnt resist on your first one back.
GREAT TO HAVE YOU BACK
By 22oz
June 20, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
The questioning of Cox’s moves is growing larger by the day. I loved what Pete said on radio yesterday when Cox pulled Ohman after a one pitch outing: “Now Bobby, you can only do this so many times!”
By David O'Brien
June 20, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
Jason, don’t forget two excellent bands opening for REM, so get there early (The National, whose Boxer album was one of the finest of 2007, and Modest Mouse, who I don’t like as much as I did 7-8 years ago, but who are still good)
By TennesseePaul
June 20, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
DOB: Nice blog. One thing you left out of Ridgway’s stellar MLB career, 1 HBP for an extra inning loss.
From the Previous Blog:
In 2004, at game 74, the Braves had a record of 35-39, .473 winning percentage. They won the division by going on a run of 61-27 the rest of the way. It was an impressive run finishing at 96-66 on the season. Bobby Cox managed that team…
By chris
June 20, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Just wondering if Cox ever explained why he went with Ridgeway yesterday. Also, do you see them dropping their 13th pitcher and calling up a hitter? Finally, any word on Diaz’s progress?
Thx,
Chris from MD
By KC
June 20, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
Lew: You haven’t busted my balls on anything in a while. I feel honored! =)
I don’t think I ever said Ryan Freel is “the answer” (whatever that means). And I didn’t even say he’s a very good everyday player.
What I did point out was this…
Ryan Freel in 2008 VS. lefties: .339 avg… .399 OBP… 6 doubles in 62 at-bats.
As I have said numerous times, I would like to see Freel platooning with Blanco in the leadoff spot.
If there’s someone better out there THAT IS REASONABLY ATTAINABLE… then by all means, go get him. But if not, Freel could help reduce our vulnerability to lefties and give us a solid leadoff combination.
My preference is to see the Braves trade for Brain Roberts and move KJ to left… but I’m not sure how realistic that is. I don’t think the Orioles want to part with Roberts.
My greatest concern though, is to see the Braves bolster the bullpen.
By LT-AA Blogger
June 20, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
Excellent song choice DOB- one of my top five all time REM songs.
I still think everyone is underestimating the power of the giant chopping cow that’s gonna be unleashed on the poor Mariners tonight.
Years from now instead of reminscing about the night Fulton caught fire. We’re gonna be blogging about the night the Cow was unleashed!
Go Braves!
By monty
June 20, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
Between Booby Cox’s dumbfounding moves(keeping Ridgway instead of Stockman, you know Stockman has to be saying “what do I have to do”) and Tex’s inabilty to be clutch,and Frenchy’s inabilty overall(I honestly think I could hit better with the bases loaded than he,slight exaggeration) that is why the Braves are struggling to be a.500 team. I understand the injuries, but other teams have had injuries too and they don’t set the MAjor League record for 1-run road losses. One run losses can be just bad luck, but at some point you have to say “I didn’t coach well”, or “I wasn’t clutch at the plate.” THis team just doesn’t come from behind late to pull out games. If the talent is there, then that speaks to their heart.
By mitchie-san
June 20, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
DOB.. You said Miliwaukee is coming in this weekend? I thought it was the Mariners…
By Cody
June 20, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
DOB - Just read on Foxsports.com that the Braves had scouts watching Oswalt pitch the other night at Minute Maid. Would Wren dare try and pull the trigger on a trade that would net the Braves Oswalt, and Carlos Lee. That is if the Stros fall out of it. I mean we would have to package a deal that would include, Schafer, Jones, Hansen and Lillbridge just to make The stros even consider the move. And for just Oswalt you would be looking at to A prospects and one B. What do you think about that senerio. Having Oswalt in the rotation and the big bat in left from lee would really put the Braves over the top.
By Joey
June 20, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
uncmike,
We can probably forget Jordan S making the big leagues - he was a light hitting outfielder until he obviously got on the hgh and had a year of power hitting. He will be back to his pre-hgh ways soon.
By McFann©
June 20, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
Overlord—
That’s sad.
Saltywoody—
Thanks. Now that’s gonna be stuck in my head!
; )
By Random
June 20, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
Mark Bradley: “It’s understandable fans would be anxious, especially at a time when the entire team is listing.”
DOB: “List, n. An inclination to one side, as of a ship; a tilt. intr. & tr.v. list·ed, list·ing, lists To lean or cause to lean to the side:”
By Kentavo
June 20, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
Wouldn’t absence of Diaz and his usual plus .300 avg explain some of the futility agaisnt lefties?
By KC
June 20, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this
BravesFanInRockies: Respectfully, I’m not sure I understand the assertion that the Braves need more pop from the right side of the plate.
It seems to me that the Braves simply need MORE OFFENSE against lefties! Period.
If that comes in the form of power… great!
If that comes in the form of a right-handed hitter who gets on base and uses his speed to generate runs… great!
Personally, I think having more speed at the top of the lineup (I like the idea of a Freel/Blanco platoon leading off) could help put the Braves in a better position to manufacture runs.
That’s been a big weak point for them. Even last year when they were among the league leaders in runs scored… they had a hard time manufacturing offense and scratching out a needed run against sharp opposing pitchers.
So again, if the Braves can get a productive right-handed hitter for the outfield, great! But if the offense comes in the form of a leadoff type of player, I don’t see a drawback there.
By Goodoleboy58
June 20, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this
Anybody see the headlines:
Welcome back Cito Gaston
Wow
By 22oz
June 20, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
Over/under on Frenchy batting 5th tonight? I’m betting 100% chance.
By pinkygonzales
June 20, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
Putting the cart WAY before the horse, but what happens if/when Glavine or Hampton gets healthy enough to pitch? Does Campillo go back to the bullpen to help settle that situation? If he continues to pitch this well, does Campillo have any trade value (if you were to couple him with, say an Infante, who has no real position and would be expendable if Kotsay and Prado were to return)? Thoughts?
By brian20
June 20, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
Serious question, why doesn’t Gonzalez close, Ohlman the set up man, Boyer and Ring Situational guys and Bennet long relief. Acosta and Ridgeway can just play checkers or something. Ohlman has pitched to good this year to use him against 1 hitter and then take him out. I think Ohlman should be the setup man and if he needs a day off use Bowyer, but I believe we are underutilizing Ohlman. Any thoughts?
By TennesseePaul
June 20, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
My greatest concern though, is to see the Braves bolster the bullpen.
This can be done internally by expelling one guy from the organization. Dump Ridgway, pull up Stockman.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 20, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
Freel is an excellent player. The moment I saw that guy play last year I was impressed. Great range in the OF. Great speed. Looks like a veteran at the plate. If braves get that guy we get no power. We all know braves are crying for some power. But then again, there is nothing bad in having a team like the cardinals of the 80´s based on speed or like those Dodgers of the 80´s also. Speed can do tons of damage also… I wouldnt mind braves getting him, but as Ive said before, why do that? we have anderson in the minors, you can compare him with freel, not as good but close, for a lot less.
Now that Gonzo is here, Id say send ridgway down and bring Anderson up.
By mitchie-san
June 20, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
Nevermind…I should have looked at the schedule first…..oops.
By G
June 20, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
KC
Remember, with great power comes great responsibility.
By Bullpen Bobby
June 20, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
Man, Bobby spends his bullpen like a drunken sailor spends money! The guy is matchup crazy! The stat yesterday came as no surprise when it was announced that the Braves lead the majors in bullpen appearances! On the other hand, if Bobby likes your work, he’s going to use you to death! Yesterday, he used “Two Out” Boyer too long. (“Two Out” because he’s usually effective for the first two outs then the wheels come off.) He brings in Bennett to bail him out. Hey Bobby, a little clue for you. If you don’t use 3 pitchers to get three outs, you don’t have to extend Boyer for more than an inning because you’ve shot your pen already.
Question? What did Phil Stockman do to tick Bobby off? The guy has thrown 7.3 innings this year, no runs, 9 k’s. I thought there were many more opportunities to use him, yet Bobby would bring in Boyer, Bennett or homerun Acosta. The ultimate show of lunacy from Bobby has to be sending Stockman out and keeping Ridgeway! Why? Because Bobby likes having a lefty righty even split in the pen for his 5 hitters, 5 pitchers binges!
Bobby! Forget your gut feeling on matchups. How ’bout paying attention to the numbers! Stockman! 7 innings! 9 k’s No runs! Ridgway, 4 appearances, 2 homeruns and hit batter to force in the winning run in Chicago!
By J-Row
June 20, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
DOB, you tell em’
Finally we have some solid numbers and reasoning to form educated opinions on the shortcomings of Braves management. There is nothing Bobby or any other decision maker can say to defend their moves based on those numbers. C’mon man, do something Bobby, your embarrassing yourself.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 20, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
McFann do you like braves chances better with Morton on the staff or with Glavine on the staff? I mean, If Glavine is to come back, what would you do with our current SP????
Im not sure, but I dont think Glavine could do any better than any of our current 5 starters, not when healthy, now he is hurt. He is of no use for us. I would send him to the pen as long reliever.
Then same question goes for Hampton. What if he was to come up tomorrow? I think I would send him to the pen also until his strength is back.
By Steve in DC
June 20, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
Man, the Ridgway over Stockman move really perplexed me. Especially after Ridgway’s few poor outings and Bobby’s comments about Stockman “needing to pitch.” In case he’s not watching the same team as me, we’re not exactly leading the league in starters innings pitched here. Anyone in the pen is gonna get their chances. And perhaps in the case of tired arms like Boyer and Acosta, more chances than they can manage.
By 74 Dawg
June 20, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
Good point Tenn. Paul, but I don’t think this team as presently constituted (w/ the injuries) is nearly as good as that team. But the main difference to me is still the lack of killer instinct on this team for the last several years. They launch a comeback, or take an early lead,or go into the ninth tied, they just can’t put the other team away. That is what really separated the Braves for 14 years. Well,that and the piching. Novice Ned the saying is: “make hay while the sun shines”. If you make hay while the sun isn’t shining it may go bad on you(moldy). It implies taking advantage of a time sensitive opportunity..if you don’t get it done now you might not get another chance… like having 3 games at home against a struggling team.
By Hoosier Aaron
June 20, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this
Let’s make a deal. I read where the Angels might be interested in Tex. Let’s deal Tex to the Angels for Casey Kotchman and Reggie Willits.
Kotchman would fit in nicely - .300 avg - plus the guy does not strike out. Willits is in a crowded outfield and needs a chance.
We will not resign Tex - Kotchman is a very nice replacement and better than a couple of unknown draft picks.
By Rufio
June 20, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
I’d take the over on Francouer batting 5th and say 6th.
I envision tonights line up as a familiar:
Frenchy wont bat 5th. BC doesnt like to have 3 leftys in a row (Mac, BJ, Blanco). Due to the opposition being able to bring in one pitcher and get to face 3 straight batters late in games. Thats why we dont see Frenchy as far back in the lineup as everyone would like.
By BravesFanInRockies
June 20, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
KC,
I’m not sure we disagree. The club has been absymal vs. lefties. The Freel/Blanco platoon sounds promising as an OBP machine.
I think the team could use more production from the OF period, against righties, too, esp. the corner spots.
B. Jones has acquitted himself nicely so far, and I’d love to see him keep it up. (.600+ slg may be asking a bit much of the kid, however.) I’d feel better if RH hitter with power and OB potential were on the roster.
By jed
June 20, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
where did you find REM lyrics? i’d always heard that song as ‘birdy in the hand for life’s rich demanding insurgency…’ and ‘philanderer’s tie’ eh? innarestin’. i was hearing something different.
By matt r
June 20, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
Here’s an idea that’s been floating around in my head for the last couple of weeks…
We trade for Adam Dunn to play LF the rest of the way. We would then have two clean-up hitters (along with Tex) that would be free agents at the end of the season, and we should we at least be able to afford to re-sign one of them right? The obvious negatives to this are that Dunn would come with a big price in a trade, and of course the chance we end up re-signing neither of the two.
By Shamus Thacker
June 20, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
Mighty fine job DOB.
Hope we get an EF-2 from Frenchy tonight instead of the dreaded EF-5…
That’s the Enhanced Fujita Scale for mezocyclone sucking-power.
By DAP
June 20, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
cody getting oswalt…maybe, im not so sure considering the great young pithcing we already have, and i dont think carlos lee would be great here either. he hits for alot of power, his OBP is just ok (actually pretty bad this year) but hes an over all very good player, and i would definetly take him on this team except for one major thing. he’s getting paid $18.5 mil per year for the next 4 years. hes also 32. i think he is a good player, but not worth that much.
By braves70
June 20, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
Watch out DOB, Mark Bradley will be accusing you of hating on Francoeur. I saw earlier where Oswalt said that the Braves were one of only about 4 teams to whom he would accept a trade. Maybe there is something there.
By L-Town Scrub
June 20, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
Could Blanco hit first? Then Escobar, Chipper, Tex, Mac, Jones, Johnson, Frenchy? I think that the loss of Kotsay in the two spot hurts a lot. I hate to say it, but when kotsay is completly healthy bring him back and put him in right field if Frenchy is still struggling. Tex and Frenchy are usually second half players, so all we can do is hope. I strongly feel we need to go get a #2 starter. Who know about Hampton and Glavine, but the young arms are exciting. We still have a chance. Tell me what you think of my line-up. Have a good day!
By matt r
June 20, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
Here’s an idea that’s been floating around in my head for the last couple of weeks…
We trade for Adam Dunn to play LF the rest of the way. We would then have two clean-up hitters (along with Tex) that would be free agents at the end of the season, and we should we at least be able to afford to re-sign one of them right? The obvious negatives to this are that Dunn would come with a big price in a trade, and of course the chance we end up re-signing neither of the two.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 20, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
brian20 thats how it should be…. takes no genius to know that. Welcome to the Cox world.
By Chop Chop
June 20, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
10Paul,
That 2004 team also had six different starters (Ortiz, Hampton, Wright, Thomson, Byrd, Ramirez) who averaged about 6 innings a start. It also had very productive starter/bench players like Julio Franco (.309/.378/.441, 6 HR, 57 RBI) and Eli Marrero (.320/.374/.520, 10 HR, 40 RBI) that helped out Roachy and Chuckie T. in first base and left field. Hell, that team even had Mark DeRosa on it. DeRo had a bad year (which got him a ticket out of town the next offseason), but that really gives you an idea of what kind of talent that team had on the bench.
Imagine if this team had a pinch hitter like Franco. Franco put up a .349/.429/.558 as a PH in 2004. That is patently insane. Overall, he had a .947 OPS coming off the bench.
Marrero had a .928 OPS as a part-time starter.
This team has no such bench players. Jurrjens and Reyes are averaging right at 6 innings a start at the moment. If they can keep that up, there’s a chance that the Braves can do something.
(You know, if the hitting ever comes around. I guess it will be up to Tex to lead the charge. He’s the guy in this lineup that really has an obligation to hit like he’s worth $20 million per. If he wants the big bucks, he’s going to have to go crazy at the plate and make the big-money teams take notice.)
By bsj
June 20, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
In the words of Stipe and Co. : “WOW!” I was not aware of Stockman’s numbers overall. That makes two strange moves made by the Braves in recent days with the Anderson thing. Brandon has definitely made the one forgettable, but this Ridgway-over-Stockman thing has already bitten us in the tail. “OW!” … a pageantry of empty justice all lined up for me. WOW!
By Bullpen Bobby
June 20, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
Woops!
Sorry about posting to the blog without reading DOB’s entry first! I wrote the post in WORD. By the time I was ready to post, there was a new blog up. I copied and pasted, then read DOB’s subject matter. Guess I have to say I agreed with him on this one, just didn’t mean to repeat basically what he said.
As CRAZY as Bobby has been using his pen, he may be forced to go with a 15 man pitching staff, only leaving Corky Miller on the bench to spell McCann once in a while!
By 74 Dawg
June 20, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
One manager/coach ,only one , has ever taken an Atlanta professional(major,for u soccer folk) sports team to a world championship. That would be Bobby Cox,future hall of famer, one of the owner of one of the best records in MLB history. There have been several players Bobby did not care much for, later on we usually found out why,just not from Bobby. There have also been some guys who looked over used, or used beyond their talents. If you find a perfect manager, let Frank Wren know-he will be looking for one in a couple years. Bobby Cox w/ drool running down his chin and dressed in a pink ballerina outfit would still be better than half the guys holding down major league spots right now. Sorry for that image.
By jed
June 20, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
“run and turn into butter”?? great song but wow…that’s an awful line. truly dreadful. no wonder stipe didnt want his lyrics out there in the early days.
By Shaun
June 20, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
Overlord-D-Day, Freel is a veteran. He’s 32. Over the last 365 days, he’s played in 74 games, had 251 PA and has hit .271/.323/.341. He has hit lefties quite well (.339/.388/.435 in 67 PA).
Freel is a decent option but the Braves should be very picky about what they will give up for him. He’s not young and he’s not all that great a hitter.
By Steve McP
June 20, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this
It strikes me that Ridgeway is in the team because he is likely to be part of a trade. Teams always want left handed pitching, so being able to trade for a pitcher who is in the majors looks better than trading for a minor leaguer (even if the major figures are not that impressive).
The blog has already discussed the strange move of sending Anderson down to bring up Jones and that too looks like a bit of showcasing, and again in a trade the team that the Braves trades with would receive players already in the majors - an easier sell for the GM.
Incidentally DOB, how much of the decision on who to keep is Bobby’s? Does Wren have input, which could be influenced by what deals might be in the offing?
By davidputty
June 20, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this
Here’s what the Braves should do. Get the roster back to 14 position players and 11 pitchers. Dump Boyer, whose 1-5 record does not indicate how poorly he has performed. Dump Ridgeway; he’s awful. Dump Carlyle. I don’t care about whether these guys are out of options. If they can’t get anybody out, it doesn’t matter how many options they have left. Bring Stockman back. That gets the pitching staff back down to 11. Bring up a couple of position players so they will have some maneuverability late in games. Get rid of Corky Miller. You can’t tell me there isn’t a catcher out there who can survive behind the plate once every five games who can also hit more than .100; Brayan Pena immediately comes to mind, but they just jettisoned him. These small changes might not turn the Braves around, but at least they would go into battle with enough players.
By DAP
June 20, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this
overlord i would put glavine in the bullpen. we need a lefty out there.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 20, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
Did you know it has been almost over a year since the braves got back to back saved games? Pretty absurd. That must be a record also.
That same stupidity that makes cox use 10 relievers in one inning is the same crap that makes him hit JF 5th when lefties start the game… He has not found out yet that his theory is not working any magic. He HAS to go L-R-L-R-L from top to bottom in the lineup. That is not smart, it could even be called ·$&&”%)(&/.
By bsj
June 20, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this
jed, I think at this point Stipe has thrown out enough of his lyric sheets at the end of concerts that most of the songs are pretty well deciphered. My friend hates the fact that he started putting the lyrics in the packaging. He really enjoyed trying to figure out what he was saying. Even so, he does so much weird stuff with the vocals that having the words in front of you isn’t always convincing.
Take Supernatural Superserious for example. “… if the premise buckles and the ropes start to chafe”. He pronounces chafe with a “sh” sound. At first listen you’d swear it was shake. I think he wants to confuse the issue, make you think about both shake and chafe. He’s pretty much brilliant.
By Renegator
June 20, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
brian20
Because Bobby Cox is the worst bullpen manager in the history of the game…
By Jeff
June 20, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
We need to come out swinging tonight, thats for sure. I think Wren needs to mention Frenchy’s name in the trade rumors so JF can start beforming better now that there rumors swirling. Hopefully Cox will use the same lineup as yesterdays..Keep JF at 7th/8th spot. Move McCann to 4th..and keep him there!!
By CONNECTICUT BRAVES FAN
June 20, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
BOBBY COX WOULDN’T LET WILL OHMAN PITCH TO A RIGHT HANDED HITTER IN THE 9TH INNING BUT HE LET RIDGWAY ( A LESS COMPETENT LEFT-HANDER) PITCH TO RIGHT HAND HITTING BOGGS IN THE 6TH. RESULT 3 RUN HOMER (BOY HE REALLY HAS A FEEL FOR THE GAME DOESN’T HE.) IS THERE A RULE THAT OHMAN CAN’T PITCH TO RIGHTHANDERS? BRING IN (LOSE THE GAME) BENNETT THEY ARE FIRING MANAGERS RIGHT & LEFT AT THIS TIME. IT’S TIME FOR BOBBY TO GET HIS.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 20, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this
Shaun, why try bringing Freel when we already have Anderson? makes no sense to me.
By rupert
June 20, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
DOB, you hear any talk about bay or nady from pitt? they would seem to be pretty good options and there is a lot of talk that the pirates are about to make a lot of guys available.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 20, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
Shaun, why try bringing Freel when we already have Anderson? makes no sense to me.
What about this……….picture this: Brian McCann hits a line driver to RF he tries to get a double and pulls a hamstring, he gets DLed. How do you like that?
What it Frank Wren thinking? is he waiting for disaster to happen and then start thinking for the fix? or does he plans to play Corky Miller 15 days while Mc is injuried?
Get rid of him today!!!!
By chuckw/deadjournalist
June 20, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
In quickly scanning, I don’t think anyone mentioned the obvious regarding the struggles against left-handers: The loss of Matt Diaz
Yes, he was not having the kind of year many thought or hoped, but as a platoon player, against lefties, he was still hitting at a good clip AND has two years of numbers to back it up.
He’s still a few weeks away, but don’t underestimate what his loss meant to the team.
While he may never be star full-time player, he is an excellent platoon player.
By Shaun
June 20, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
Dump Boyer, whose 1-5 record does not indicate how poorly he has performed.
This is hilarious. Boyer is 26, he had 36 strikeouts, 15 walks and 3 homers allowed in 40.7 innings. I would argue his 1-5 record does not indicate how decent he has performed.
By Bullpen Bobby
June 20, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
Keeping Ridgway to showcase him to other teams?
If that’s the case, it’s even more nuts! Do you throw away games when you’re trying to win a pennant so you can showcase some guy while you send a stronger piece out?
Surely the Braves aren’t that dumb!?
Are they?
By chuckw/deadjournalist
June 20, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
Two Diaz stats I should have included:
Career Ave against LHP: .331 ‘08 Ave against LHP: .333
By NRBQ
June 20, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
JED
You familiar with Bachman-Turner Overdrive’s “Baking carrot biscuits, and working on a pie?”
Or McCartney’s “Michelle, ma belle. Someday monkey play piano songs?”
By 18 Wheels of Love
June 20, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
jed, that lyric ‘run and turn into butter’ was inspired by the book ‘Little Black Sambo’ about a tiger that runs around a tree until it turns into butter. It’s a silly lyric and from Stipe’s out there mind…doesn’t lessen anything about that song or great album in my mind!
Peterbilt Peterbilt
By Efrim
June 20, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
If Kotsay’s injury keeps him out for the rest of the season, then the Braves may want to look into acquiring more than just Ryan Freel.
Does anyone have our combined Outfield numbers? How does it stack up against the rest of the NL? I’m sure we have to be in the bottom third of the league, if not dead last.
By Cody
June 20, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
DAP - The Braves are in it to win this year and need another veteran arm in the rotation. Campillio all though good lately will not be as effective later when other teams get him scouted. JJJ, Morton will not be reliable this season. Plus now that we have lost Smoltz we need another veteran for next year and since Ozwalt is under contract until 2011 I think it would be a wish investment for years to come. A 2009 rotation of Hudson, Ozwalt, JJJ, Morton and Campillo would look good. But if you rely on young pitchers you arn’t going to make it very far. lets face it if the Braves don’t do it this year it may be 5 years before another window opens. I was trhowing Carlos in the eqaution becuase the Astros would eat som contract just to move him. he is a .289 career hitter and would take the place of Tex next year if we don’t sign him. Folks, stop with the don’t need to do anything cause we have a farm and prospects. they will not help us now.
By Cody
June 20, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
DAP - The Braves are in it to win this year and need another veteran arm in the rotation. Campillio all though good lately will not be as effective later when other teams get him scouted. JJJ, Morton will not be reliable this late this season. Plus now that we have lost Smoltz we need another veteran for next year and since Ozwalt is under contract until 2011 I think it would be a wish investment for years to come. A 2009 rotation of Hudson, Ozwalt, JJJ, Morton and Campillo would look good. But if you rely on young pitchers you arn’t going to make it very far. lets face it if the Braves don’t do it this year it may be 5 years before another window opens. I was trhowing Carlos in the eqaution becuase the Astros would eat som contract just to move him. he is a .289 career hitter and would take the place of Tex next year if we don’t sign him. Folks, stop with the don’t need to do anything cause we have a farm and prospects. they will not help us now.
By Shaun
June 20, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
Overlord-D-Day, that’s a decent point. But I think Freel is clearly a better player than Anderson. If the Braves could get him without giving up much, why not?
Freel is better than Anderson because he can play many more positions and Anderson has posted a .335 OBP/.370 SLG against minor league pitching in his career. And Anderson hasn’t really been young for the levels at which he’s played, so you’d expect him to be able to put up a better numbers than that.
While I’m no big fan of the Braves going out of their way to get Freel, I do think he’s a better player.
By champ
June 20, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
DOB No mention of the big trade? Sal Fasano to the Indians for a player to be named. This is huge! How will this affect any of the recent call ups? Will Morton or Ridgeway miss their BFF the way Escobar misses Pena? Will McCann grow a handle bar mustache in his honor? OMG! So many questions,AAAAHHH!
By Overlord-D-Day
June 20, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
DAP clap clap clap, I like that. I think Tom would understand that. Cox should be aggressive. But im pretty sure that if Tom comes back, he will take campillos spot and campillo would go to the pen. Or he will take Mortons spot and Morton would be sent down. Coxs approach to it would be: “tommy is the veteran, 300 game winner, no reason he should not be back in the starting rotation”. Shame shame.
Do you disagree on that?
By Graham
June 20, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
davidputty
I wholeheartedly agree that the Braves should send off Ridgway and Boyer. Boyer started out well, and is now in serious decline. As for Ridgway, I think he needs more work in AAA, or even AA.
But, I think that Carlyle has the ability to succeed, but he is surrounded by pitchers who have blown it as of late, affecting his psyche. If they can make the changes in the bullpen starting with Ridgway and Boyer, then Carlyle could really be effective. He wasn’t exceptional last year, but he made several excellent starts that transpired into wins for the Braves. ERA was high (5.22), but good SO/BB ratio at 74/32 (or however that works).
They need Stockman, period.
By jbutler
June 20, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this
Trying to get tix to catch the Alison Krause/Robert Plant show at Red Rocks tomorrow night…best place to see a show..hands down.
Wonder if Stockman did something to just p** off ‘ol Bobby Cox and he’s getting a little petty. Nothing about keeping Ridgway makes sense. Besides, I heard he has a job to go to once the season wraps!!!
By Steve in DC
June 20, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this
Um, did someone really just suggest getting Adam Dunn? Really?
Personally, I could do without having another .230 hitter who strikes out 100 times a year with some power. Didn’t we just let the last one go to LA?
By Bravesfan79
June 20, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
Bobby Cox made a dumn roster move? imagine that!
Its still not as bad as leaving Escobar off the team coming out of spring training last year! For WHO! Woodcrap and Orr??
Replace all woodcraps at bats last year with Escobar…and we never fall back to .500 when Chipper gets hurt, and we make the playoffs. End of Story!!
By supa
June 20, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
You’re right. Some unintuitive moves by the Braves. Why keep Miller over Pena. Why keep Ridgeway over Stockman?
Doesn’t make sense.
Maybe a Brandon Jones for Ryan Freel deal is in the mix? Probably good for the short-run but likely a poor decision in the long-run.
By Efrim
June 20, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this
In terms of OPS ranks int he NL, the Braves are 7th at CF, 12th at LF and 14th in right field. There. I answered my own question about how poor our outfield is. Center field will slowly move downwards now that Kotsay is out. You would have to think Frenchy will turn it around at some point. Left Field should do better as long as we keep giving at bats to Brandon Jones.
By Cody
June 20, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
Dap - sorry I meant to put reyes in the 09 rotation and take campillo out. Sorry new 09 rotation: Hudson, Ozwalt, JJJ, Reyes, and Morton
By Jeff
June 20, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
Something is screwy w/ Cox & Wren. These decisions w/ the bullpen and Anderson & BJones makes it very frustrating. And the damn lineup!!! Move Tex, Frenchy & KJ around till you get it right Cox. I mean after 70 something games, you still haven’t figured it out yet? And yesterdays example of switching bullpen pitchers around is freakin stupid!!
By 18 Wheels of Love
June 20, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
We are in a pickle when it comes to our OF. Wren is not going to replace Jeff and Bobby won’t bench him so we are locked in with his so-so numbers for the rest of the year.
We need a power bat in the OF and finding one that can play CF is extremely hard. Brandon Jones is doing great in LF so do you replace him with Diaz when he returns and then put a Anderson/Freel in CF? That still doesn’t solve a thing…you still have no power bat in CF. IMO you get a power bat for LF or CF or you stick with what we currently have.
By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)
June 20, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
If you ask me, the Braves need two players. Ryan Freel and Matt Holliday, for different reasons. The Braves need a big right handed bat to even things out with the left handed bats in the lineup and like O’Brien said, Freel brings fire and savvy to the picture.
But, the other reason to go after Matt holiday is to offset the impending loss of Mark Teixeira. We all know the long odds of Tex staying in Atlanta, bringing another big bat into the scene will help in 2008 and 2009. The downside of Matt Holliday’s two year contract is of course, his agent, Scott Boras.
Since Chipper came back from his quadriceps injury, he is hitting .200, 6 for 30 with one HR and 4 RBI in his last nine games. The really alarming thing is, he has gone hitless in five of his last nine games. When considering that Hoss had gone hitless in just eight of the previous sixty-five games, it’s cause for concern.
I know Chipper is playing hurt and I admire the man for showing some guts and chutzpa ! I’m just wondering if he is doing himself and the team a disservice in the long run.
I do agree, the Braves have to sweep these guys. Losing two out of three to the Mariners in their present condition would be tantamount to insanity. As in this blog and Braves Nation would eat itself alive by Monday morning.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 20, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
*chuckw/deadjournalist * you forgot to mention the fact that Prado is also down and he is a good bat from the right side. Think Prado will be here next week, I hope. And I hope Cox gives him lots of playing time.
By Graham
June 20, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
Shaun
I would argue his 1-5 record does not indicate how decent he has performed.
I understand your argument on that. W/L does not always indicate how a pitcher performs. ERA doesn’t either, especially with relief pitchers and short outings. I am curious, though, if you think that Boyer has trouble going more than 1 inning. It seems to me that he does.
By Pete
June 20, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this
Saw R.E.M. at the Hollywood Bowl a few weeks back. Incredible show! I’ve seen them about a half a dozen times over the years, and this show ranks up there with the Life’s Rich Pageant tour. My wife’s never seen R.E.M, and wasn’t much of a fan. She is now.
By RC
June 20, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
While I am normally not one to 2nd guess the manager’s moves, it seems to me this season that Bobby has not fully utilized his bullpen, instead leaning on one or two “trusted” guys (kind of like Torre used to do with the Yankees). I understand that it’s hard to trust a player until they’ve performed in a game, but in my opinion Stockman never got enough opportunity to KNOW whether he can be depended upon. Not using every arm you’ve got is like playing golf without using all the clubs…it can be done, but you’d probably have better results if you used them all.
By HuffBraves
June 20, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
I don’t know why you’re all hating on Wren all the time.
Just wait til they announce the player to be named in the Fasano deal is C.C. Sabathia.
By jbutler
June 20, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
Graham Agree w/what you say except the point on Boyer…he has his strengths and BC hasn’t been utilizing them when he messes up!! Why on earth he stayed in as long as he did against the Rangers..I don’t get. Yank him after the 8th..and he’s good to go. I think he’s a good/live arm - but overused.
By KC
June 20, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
Jason: “Also, he’s young enough that I don’t have to explain the Ridgeway/Stockman situation to him!”
If you CAN explain it, then you’re way ahead of… pretty much everyone. =)
Have fun tonight. I’m planning on being there as well. Here’s to a Braves win tonight!
By Bill
June 20, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
The Braves don’t need another RH bat. If Tex and Frenchie would do their part, the hitting would be ok. If they don’t perk up by deadline, ship them out. Under no circumstances I would pay Tex 20mil. They made the mistake of trading a boat load of prospects last year. Where did it get them. If Wren trades a bunch of prospects, he should be fired. They didn’t give Anderson a chance. He can do as much as Freel.
By Overlord-D-Day
June 20, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
Could anybody tell me what are the braves going to do if McCann gets hurt and needs to sit 5 days at home?
By KC
June 20, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
Cody: We certainly can’t count on Smoltz for next season… but you shouldn’t count him out either.
There will be plenty of time this winter to worry about next year. By then, they’ll know a lot more about these youngsters they’ve got in the rotation, and they’ll know a lot more about Smoltz’s comeback efforts.
By Chop Chop
June 20, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
Re: Stockman’s inability to stay with the big club.
Stockman played a most cruel trick upon the Hall of Fame skipper a few weeks ago. That’s right, he left his ‘roo nads amongst the clubhouse spread a few weeks ago and, well, Bobby ate them.
This is the only explanation that makes sense.
By RC
June 20, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
One more bullpen complaint. I can’t help but think that Boyer and Acosta have been TERRIBLY mis-managed. In the past week I can think of 3 games off the top of my head in which one of them pitched a great 1st inning, was left in for a 2nd inning, and the team lost as a result. I know that you have to occasionally use relief pitchers more than one inning, but it seems like with these two it always burns the team (with Acosta I’m not sure it’s a good idea for him to be on the MLB team, but that’s another gripe entirely).
By frank
June 20, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
PITTSBURGH — John Gibbons was fired Friday by the last-place Toronto Blue Jays and replaced by Cito Gaston, who led the team to World Series titles in 1992 and 1993.
In related news the Atlanta Braves signed former pitchers Pete Smith and Mike Stanton to strengthen a shaky bullpen.
By Efrim
June 20, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
Erik Bedard away from Safeco Field:
5 Starts against Tampa Bay, NY Yankees(2 starts), Boston, and Texas: 1-2 record overall, 24.1 innings pitched, 26 hits allowed(.263 BA/.842 OPS), 20 Earned Runs(7.40 ERA), 5 Home Runs allowed, 13/21 BB/K rate.
The Braves hitters at home:
.298/.375/.450 with a .826 OPS
The Braves hitters against lefties:
.269/.339/.378 with a .717 OPS
Not sure what the Braves do against lefties at home. Those 5 starts he had away from Safeco were against some pretty good offenses. Braves have an inconsistent, but goo offense. We’ll see, should be interesting. I’ve always liked watching Bedard pitch. His curveball is one of the best pitches in the game. Oh yeah, and one more stat:
Left handed batters are 17 for 64 off Bedard with a .266/.397/.438(.835 OPS) line. His BB/K rate is 12/9.
Right handed batters are 43 for 192 off Be